Cp march 2011

MARCH 2010 • FREE 15 2011 SUMMER CAMP LISTINGS PAGE

MARCH 2011 • FREE

GREAT NEWS ABOUT

Homesickness

tips to Finding the Right

CAMP

Day

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Cool Kids PAGE

6

Saturday March 12th 10am-3pm ST. MARGARET ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Smart

205 HICKORY AVE. BEL AIR, MD

FREE ADMISSION

Making

Reel Life with Jane PAGE

12

Decisions about Phones Calendar of Events PAGE

25

2

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

CONTENTS M ARCH 2011

FEATURE 7

10 Tips to Finding the Right Day Camp D ENISE M ORRISON Y EARIAN

PAGE

7

GUIDE 15 PAGE

Summer Camp Guide

DEPARTMENTS 5

19

Community Connections: Kids Helping Hopkins; Cool Kids: Compost Happens

65+ listings of selected summer camps

15

Noodles

PAGE

11

Kids Media Reel Life with Jane

BY J ANE

L OUISE B OURSAW

Growing Up Online BY

C AROLYN J ABS

19

Healthy Family

25

Family Fun Guide

Great News about Homesickness

Calendar of Events

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Contact Us: Mail: Delta Graphics & Communications P.O. Box 1666 Bel Air, MD 21014 Phone: 410-893-1511 Fax: 410-893-2727 Email: delta@aboutdelta.com Web site: www.CountyParents.com Advertising: Peter Fernandez, ext. 107, peterf@aboutdelta.com Editorial: Joan Fernandez, ext. 105, joanf@aboutdelta.com Contributing Writers Jane Louise Boursaw, Carolyn Jabs Denise Morrison Yearian

Time to Think Summer!

In this special issue, you’ll find listings for nearly 70 summer camps along with helpful advice on choosing a day camp and coping with homesickness for sleep away campers.

The printed listings are just a starting point; you can search and find more details for listed camps at www.countyparents.com by clicking on our online camp guide.

Also, don’t forget that you can visit with representatives from many of these camps at our annual Summer Camp & Education Fair being held on March 12th from 10am to 3pm at St. Margaret Elementary School in Bel Air. Visit with camps and schools, gather information and enjoy family friendly entertainment. See page 10 for details.

In addition, we have more fun things that you can do with your family throughout the month. Check our calendar of events for performances, nature activities and teen tech. In Kids Media, preview upcoming movie and dvd releases for the month.

Calendar/Resource listings: Visit www.CountyParents.com to submit events via an online form in the Calendar section, fax 410-893-2727 or mail to Delta Graphics, Inc., P.O. Box 1666, Bel Air, MD 21014

County Parents is published monthly by Delta Graphics & Communications. Copyright © 2011 Delta Graphics, Inc. All rights reserved. County Parents is distributed free of charge in family-friendly locations as well as direct mailed.

Submissions and Letters to the Editor are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or to comment editorially on all material submitted. Unsolicited material cannot under any circumstances obligate this publication to claims for charges. Enclose a SASE for any material to be returned.

County Parents reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason.

Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of published material, Delta Graphics, Inc., its principals, employees, or any of the authors presenting information within the County ParentsTM magazine and web site cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of any information contained herein.

The contents of the magazine and web site are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

4

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Supporting Peers

Link by Link at Perry Hall High

National Honor Society members, left to right, Meghan Chong, Will Eichhorn, Vivian Truong and Beatriz Tenorio with a small segment of the “chain of caring.”

A

employers, who contributed last year. The chain was a terrific visual reminder for the whole community of the ongoing needs of Hopkins Children’s patients and families for comfort, support and compassion, and the magnitude of their giving.”

The paper chains, consisting of more than 18,000 links, were displayed in the school’s auditorium, where the campaign’s total was announced at a December 2010 assembly.

For more information, visit http://www.bcps.org/community/ kidshelphopkins/involved.htm Courtesy of Johns Hopkins Children’s Center

t Perry Hall High School, students in its National Honor Society recently led a fundraising drive that raised more than $9,200 for Hopkins Children’s.In selling strips of construction paper for 50 cents, the students continued a tradition of creating a “chain of caring” to emulate support and comfort for hospitalized peers. Over the last three years, the annual drive has contributed more than $36,000 toward the purchase of technology, including netbooks, to help adolescent patients maintain connections with friends and family.

Perry Hall is a longtime participant in the school-based philanthropy program

(410) 879-3566

Kids Helping Hopkins. Considered a “values education” program within Baltimore County and other state school system, the program offers schoolchildren the opportunity to help others and experience the value of giving.

“When students apply for admission to the honor society, many talk about how they want to be a part of the group that raises money for Johns Hopkins,” says Annie Matthews Krall, an English teacher at Perry Hall and the society’s faculty advisor.

“We are very proud of our students,” she continues, “and thank all those, including teachers, parents and their

(410) 838-1114

www.tots2teensdental.com

NEW PATIENTS! Mention County Parents Magazine and receive Toothprints FREE!

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

5

COOL KIDS

Compost Happens A small group of students is making a big impact at Bel Air High School. This fall, Bel Air High School set out to be one of the first public schools in the state – if not the nation – to initiate a fullscale composting program in their cafeteria. The process began with the efforts of a single student who wanted to make a difference.

O

ne month earlier, Tyler Abbott, a junior at Bel Air High, sent an email to the Office of Resource Conservation. His message was brief, but to the point: “Mr. Cassilly, my name is Tyler Abbott, and I want to help in any way that I can.”

Andrew Cassilly, the resource conservation manager for the school system, set up a meeting with Tyler and his environmental science teacher, Glen Hedelson, to develop a sustainability plan for the school. They decided to try implementing a composting program in the cafeteria.

“Many of our schools have small-scale composting bins on the grounds for the teachers to demonstrate the process to the students,” says Mr. Cassilly. “But, a large-scale program has never been attempted by the schools. I gave Tyler some ideas and told him to go to work.”

After some investigation, Tyler and a few other students decided to team up with Justen Garrity from Veteran Compost located in Aberdeen. “Mr. Garrity was eager to work with us and set up a pilot program,” said Tyler.

“I was really excited to work with Bel Air High School on this project,” recalls 6

Mr. Garrity. “Not only are we diverting tons of material from the landfill, but we are also educating students and faculty at the same time. It’s really rewarding to see the food waste that Bel Air High is collecting getting turned back into compost products that can grow more food in the future.”

Students and cafeteria employees place food waste in large bins provided by Veteran Compost. These bins are collected twice a week by Justen and are taken to the company’s farm in Aberdeen. Once on site, the material is

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

mixed with yard waste and manure and composted for 90 days. After that, it is ready for sale to farmers, landscapers and home owners. To date, the program at Bel Air High School has diverted 4,389 pounds of food waste from the land fill.

This is equivalent to 9,217 pounds of Co2 emissions avoided in the disposal process and equal to planting 107 trees!

“It is important that we all take responsibility to create a clean and healthy environment for future generations,” said Tyler. “Our goal is to expand the program to additional schools in the future.”

2ND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION March 12th

Toys, Books, Parties & More £ÇÊ ÀÌ Ê > Ê-ÌÀiiÌÊUÊ i Ê À]Ê >ÀÞ > `ÊÓ£ä£{ {{Î ÎÇ£ È{ÓäÊUÊÜÜÜ°Ì `` ÞÜ Ã°V

Join us for story Ì i]ÊVÀ>vÌÃ]Ê iiÌÊEÊ ÀiiÌÊÜ Ì Ê Maisy MouseÊ> `Ê FerrousÊÌ iÊ À L À` Lots of Prizes!

FEATURE

10

tips to Finding the

Right Day Camp BY

DENISE MORRISON YEARIAN

how intense the program is. It 1. CONSIDER YOUR CHILD. Summer day camp is a place where children may be labeled “specialty” but Talk it over and narrow the can learn new skills, acquire new interests and make only have a one- or two-hour options based on your child’s component with other activities interests and needs. Find out new friends. But there is no one-size-fits-all camp. scheduled in. what he wants from the experience and together make a list of To find the right day camp for your child, 4. LOOK AT LOCATION. things he might like to do. Also Find a camp close to your job or consider his developmental consider these 10 tips. home to shorten travel time and needs. Is he ready for an all-day you. Invest this time up front and you may allow quick access to your child in an program? Would he be more comfortable find a camp to stay with for several years. emergency. Convenience, however, in an intimate versus large group setting? shouldn’t be the primary factor. Balance If your child likes sports but has shown 3. TRADITIONAL OR SPECIALTY. your decision with what the camp has to some interest in drama or art, encourage When choosing between a traditional offer. If your child really wants to particihim to step out of his comfort zone. It may versus specialty program, consider this rule pate in a given camp, consider your just spark a new passion. of thumb: The younger the child, the more willingness to drive out of the way. Or see varied the activities should be. Children if there’s a neighbor you can carpool with.

2. GATHER INFORMATION. Attend between the ages of 7 and 11 thrive in a camp fairs, or pick up a local camp guide setting where they can sample a variety of 5. PONDER PROGRAM LENGTH. copy. Circle programs of interest then subjects. As their attention span develops, Program length should be viewed in light comparison shop. Call each prospective they may want to focus on a single activity. of the family and child’s needs. If your camp to inquire about philosophy, daily If you go with a specialty camp, find out schedule and other topics important to continues— w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

7

FEATURE 10 Tips to Finding the Right Day Camp from previous page

schedule dictates him having to stay a full day ask about before- and after-care. If he’s younger, find out about naps or quiet times. It’s also important to find out who runs the before- and after-care program. Is it the same staff your child has all day?

What activities will he be engaged in during this time?

6. SCOUT OUT SCHEDULES. Before enrolling, ask about the daily schedule.

What themes and related activities are planned? Will there be field trips or special guests coming in to keep camp exciting and extend theme-based learning? Will your camper receive any reading, writing or math experiences? Done properly, kids can enjoy games and activities that keep those academic skills sharp. Also look at resources the camp has to offer and inquire how often your child will participate in them. Don’t assume that just because there’s a pool, ropes course or archery field on the brochure it will be part of your child’s session. Ask to make sure.

7. ASK ABOUT STAFF. Find out how staff and counselors are chosen, their experience, background, age and training, as well as counselor-to-camper ratio. The American Camping Association’s day camp recommendations are 1-6 for ages 4 to 5, 1-8 for ages 6 to 8, 1-10 for ages 9 to 14 and 1-12 for ages 15 to 17. Also ask how counselors are screened and what 8

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE CHOOSING A DAY CAMP n Are you licensed by the state or do

be able to participate in these?

you hold an accreditation or certification? What exactly does that credential mean? n What kind of background, training and experience do counselors and staff have? How are they chosen? n What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? How many students are in each group? How often are the groups together? n What kind of medical response is on hand? Camp nurse or CPR and firstaid certified staff? n Are you able to administer medicine? n What is a typical day like? n How often will the campers take field trips? Where do they go? Is there increased supervision in populated setting? n What other resources are available to campers, such as a pool, ice arena, farm, hiking trails, ropes course, archery, etc.? How often will my child

n Are lunches and/or snacks pro-

vided? n Do you offer before- and after-care?

Will it be the same staff caring for my child? n How often are the facilities cleaned? n What alternative plans do you have for inclement weather? n What does the camp fee cover? What extra fees will I be required to pay? n Do you offer scholarships or financial aid? n What is the refund policy and rules regarding transfer of weeks? n What is your policy regarding cell phones and other technology items brought to camp? n How do you handle homesickness and other adjustment issues? n What is the discipline policy? n How do you handle bullying? n What are your drop-off and pick-up policies? n Will you provide references?

Ask about our Summer Day Camp

Join the celebration.

20 secluded acres 5 Pools • 11 Tennis Courts • Snack bar • Adult beverage bar Picnic Pavilions/ Playground

International Award Winning Activity Pool with Lazy River and Vortex Center Memberships Available

www.valleybrookcc.net 1810 Valleybrook Dr. • P.O. Box 55 • Kingsville, Md 21087 • (410) 803-2334 • info@valleybrookcc.net

FEATURE background checks are done. If you’re going with a specialty camp, what kind of in-depth knowledge and experience do the counselors have teaching the subject?

8. CONSIDER COSTS. Compare program costs and find out what the fees actually cover. Some camps include field trips, materials, meals and t-shirts into their initial fee; with others it’s an add-on.

Also find out the camp’s refund policy and rules regarding transfer of weeks if your plans change or your child gets sick. If the camp is out of your price range, is a scholarship or financial assistance available?

9. EXPLORE OPEN HOUSES. Visiting an open house can get children acclimated to the environment and give you a better perspective of the staff, facilities and activities. Is the staff smiling and friendly?

Do they immediately bond with the children? Are the facilities well maintained, clean, and free of safety hazards?

10. PERUSE POLICIES. Eliminate future problems by reviewing the camp’s policies and procedures before you sign up. You don’t want to learn after the fact that your child can’t turn on his cell phone or that drop-off and pick-up policies differ from what you thought. Share pertinent information with your child too, so there are no surprises on his end.

S U M MER 2 011 C AMP S June 20-24 Voice Intensive Camp in Baltimore for advanced high school classical singers June 20-24 Camp for Singers in Annapolis for middle and high school students August 1-12 Dance Technique Refresher in Baltimore for mid-level ballet students August 1-5 Chamber Camp in Towson for string players in grades 5-12 August 8-12 Camp Allegro in Towson for string players using Suzuki Books 1-4

During the six-week summer session of study, beginning June 20, the Preparatory offers instruction in music and dance for students of all ages.

Registration opens April 1.

For more information, call 410-234-4630 or visit www.peabody.jhu.edu/prep

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

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FUN & ENTERTAINMENT Perfomances by: The Rage Box Contemporary Dance Center Tae Kwon Do Masters Kevin Brown

Fun Music and Games Marathon DJs

h t 2 1 h c r a Saturday M m-3pm

Face Painting Lucky

10a

HOOL RY SC A T N E M ET ELE ARGAR IR, MD M .

T S . • BEL A

205

AVE HICKORY

N DMISSIO A E E R F

About the Fair

Kevin Brown One Man... So Much Fun! Comedy • Circus • Magic Stage Shows: Strolling Entertainment:

Whatever your child’s age or interest, a well-chosen su mmer or acad em ic program can prov ide your kids w ith great fun, good frie nds and learni ng too.

Come to the C ounty Paren ts Camp & Education Fair to talk on e-on-one with camp an d school repres entatives.

Gain personal insights, regist er your child for a prog ram or take ho me information and ap plications. Con ve niently explore camps and educationa l options all in one plac e. Families ca n also enjoy kid friendly en tertainment.

For over 20 years, Kevin Brown has been entertaining audiences with his unique blend of comedy, circus and magic.

A former Ringling Bros. Circus clown, Kevin has appeared throughout the country at countless fairs, festivals, schools and corporate events. During Kevin’s exciting performances you might catch a glimpse of plate spinning, amazing object manipulations, mind-bending magic or get a chance to try your hand at performing an amazing feat of dexterity Exciting, Interactive and just plain fun!

SPONSORS & EXHIBITORS Bel Air Athletic Club Camp Friendship Camp Puh’Tok Children’s Christian Center College Savings Plans of Maryland Freestate Sports Arena Harford Community College HCC Kids Harford Friends School Huntington Learning Center It’s All Fun & Games Day Camp Joyful Sounds School of Music Kennedy Krieger Institute

11:30am and 1:00pm 11:00am - 2:00pm

Entertainment and performances subject to change.

All activities are on a first come, first served basis.

(sponsors shown in green)

Kiddie Academy La Garderie School for the Young Mountain Christian School My Gym Children’s Fitness Center New Covenant Christian School Open Bible Christian Academy Point Breeze Credit Union Priority Partners The Rage Box Contemporary Dance Center Ripken Baseball Science Camp Watonka St. James Academy

St. Margaret School Sylvan Learning Tae Kwon Do Masters The Arena Club The Goddard School The Highlands School The John Carroll School Summer Programs Tutor Doctor Upper Chesapeake Health U.S. Taekwondo Academy Y of Central Maryland Y Journeys in Camping Fun

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND UPDATES VISIT www.CountyParents.com 10

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

BOOKS, MOVIES & WEB FOR KIDS

Smart

Media

Growing Up Online: Making

Decisions about C J Phones BY

AROLYN

ABS

Smartphones are like auxiliary brains, and many adults are addicted to them. Naturally kids want to use them too. Like other technologies, smartphones involve risks as well as rewards.

S

martphones are like auxiliary brains, and many adults are addicted to them. Naturally kids want to use them too. Like other technologies, smartphones involve risks as well as rewards. The rewards are made conspicuous by advertising, but smart parents will also consider these risks: Radiation. All cellphones emit radio waves which are a form of radiation. For years, some people have worried that cellphone use may be associated with brain tumors. An NIH Fact sheet which summarizes recent research concludes that the largest study done to date found that “overall, cell phone users have no increased risk for two of the most common types of brain tumor. (The complete fact sheet is available at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/cellph onesse smartphones.)

On a more cautionary note, the National Toxicology Program convened a seminar last fall in which experts warned that there aren’t yet studies about how cellphone use might impact young brains over time. One solution is to limit the amount of time kids spend with phones pressed against their heads. If your child’s social life depends upon a lot of cellphone talking, consider getting a headset. Using the device for texting, gaming or other purposes is less likely to expose children to risk.

Hearing loss. Many phones include music players, so kids use them with earphones. Here the evidence is clear.

Listening to any device with earphones can cause hearing loss if the volume is set too high. A recent study done by

researchers at Harvard found that a startling one in five teens already have hearing loss that makes it difficult for them to hear whispering.

Getting teens to take this problem seriously isn’t easy. If they can hear you when you tell them to turn the volume down, they may actually crank it up. To help your child understand the impact of hearing loss, visit earbud.org and check out “Hearing Facts.” Among other things, the site includes a simulator which shows what life is like with different levels of hearing loss.

Once you’ve gotten your child’s attention, put an indelible mark that shows when the volume on the cellphone is turned half way up. If your child sets the device higher, enforce time limits. Offer noise canceling headphones because, if there’s less interference from background sound, your child won’t need as much volume. If you or your child use Apple devices, check their website for free downloads that will automatically limit volume.

Distracted Driving. The many capabilities of smartphones make it more likely that teens will use them while driving.

Even if you can convince your child that it’s dumb to text and drive, you may find it harder to make the case against finding a musical selection or GPS directions.

Inexperienced drivers need to give their full attention to driving, so all these activities put them at risk. Talking about the risks of distracted driving should be your first step. If you feel your teen isn’t getting the message, you can back up

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

continues—

11

BOOKS, MOVIES & WEB FOR KIDS Growing Up Online: Making Smart Decisions about Smart Phones

Media

from previous page

your rules with apps like Zoomsafer (www.zoomsafer) which block signals to a phone that’s in a moving vehicle.

Parents should also help kids think through what they will do if another driver is texting while they are in the car.

Among other things, they can offer to hold the driver’s phone and text on his or her behalf. Turning the phone over to a passenger is also a perfectly reasonable strategy when they are driving.

GPS location. Cell phones sold in North America have GPS tracking capability so 911 operators can locate users in an emergency. This technology can also be used by parents—and predators. All of the major carriers allow parents to add a service that will provide location alerts and, for that matter, allow you to track your child’s movements on a map. Parents need to think carefully about whether these services support or undermine their efforts to build trust and encourage responsible decision-making.

More worrisome are social networking tools like Loopt, Glympse and Latitude. These programs allow teens to notify their friends about where they

are and even let people track each other as they move from place to place. They also make stalking easy, not only for strangers but also for bullies and even jealous boyfriends or girlfriends. If your teen is interested in such tools, have him or her talk you through how it works and when they think it should be used. Be sure your child knows how to turn the app off and how to control who sees the signal.

Of course, having a smartphone also puts the Internet in your child’s pocket, so before you hand one over, you’ll want to be confident that he or she understands how to be safe and responsible in a variety of online environments. If your child’s online skills are still emerging, you may want to invest in nothing more than a simple cellphone that makes emergency calls. Or consider a monitoring program like CellSafety (www.websafety.com) or Phone Advocate (www.phoneadvocate.com).

Both will alert parents if kids stray into forbidden territory such as sexting or cellphone cheating.

Most of all remember that, despite their names, smart phones aren’t smart. Like other tools, their value always depends upon whether they are used in smart ways by smart people.

410-838-5967 www.adventluth.com

2230 ROCK SPRING ROAD • FOREST HILL, MARYLAND 21050 12

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

Reel life with Jane Movie and DVD reviews for you and your family B Y J ANE L OUISE B OURSAW Johnny Depp as a chameleon, Linus and his beloved blanket, and that wimpy kid Greg Heffley are heading to theaters and DVDs this month. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new.

RANGO Rating: PG for rude humor, language, action and smoking OK for kids: 7+.

Reel Preview: 5 out of 5 Website: www.rangomovie.com It’s always encouraging when a trailer is so hilarious you want to watch it over and over again. Such is the case with ‘Rango’ (check out the trailer here), an animated film from director Gore Verbinski. Johnny Depp voices the title character, a chameleon who aspires to be a swashbuckling hero and finds himself playing that very role in a Western town plagued by bandits. And you couldn’t ask for a better cast: Bill Nighy, Timothy Olyphant, Isla Fisher, Abigail Breslin, Alfred Molina, Ned Beatty, Ray Winstone, Harry Dean Stanton and Stephen Root among them. I’m already calling “best animated film of 2011” on this one. We’ll see if I’m right.

THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU Rating: PG-13 for brief strong language, some sexuality, and a violent image.

In theaters: 3/04. Ok for kids 13+.

Reel Preview: 3.5 out of 5 Reels.

Website: www.theadjustmentbureau.com I’m not sure ‘The Adjustment Bureau’ will be another ‘Bourne’ sensation, but it looks very entertaining. The action-thriller stars Matt Damon as David Norris, an ambitious

BOOKS, MOVIES & WEB FOR KIDS politician on the brink of winning a U.S. Senate seat. When he finds himself falling for beautiful ballerina Elise Sellas (Emily Blunt), David learns he’s up against the agents of Fate, a.k.a. The Adjustment Bureau – people who control our lives and do not want David and Elise to be together. This movie has everything going for it, including director and writer George Nolfi (writer of ‘Ocean’s Twelve’ and ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’), and the fact that it’s based on a short story by Philip K. Dick, who wrote ‘Total Recall,’ ‘Minority Report’ and ‘Blade Runner.’

BEASTLY Rating: PG-13 for language, including some crude comments, drug references and brief violence. In theaters 3/18.

OK for kids: 13+.

Reel Preview: 3 out of 5 .

Website: www.beastlythemovie.com March must be the month for modern fairy tales. We’ve got ‘Red Riding Hood,’ which turns the beloved children’s story into a dark thriller starring Amanda Seyfried (not for kids!), and ‘Beastly,’ an updated take on ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ Alex Pettyfer plays Kyle Kingson, a handsome teen who loves humiliating less attractive people. But he spurns the wrong girl in misfit Kendra (Mary-Kate Olsen), who casts a spell which turns him into a repulsive beast. The only way to reverse the spell is to find someone who can love him for who he is. Other players include his dad (Peter Krause), his blind tutor (Neil Patrick Harris), a kindly housekeeper (Lisa Gay Hamilton), and a woman who might help to turn things around (Vanessa Hudgens).

on one of the many ‘Wimpy Kid’ books by Jeff Kinney. I went back and read my review of the first movie to see how it fared. I gave it 3 out of 5 Reels, mainly because the gross-out humor grossed me out. But let’s face it, middle school IS fraught with potty humor, so I guess the movies are true to life.

New on DVD SCOOBY-DOO: CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER Rating: PG. On DVD/Blu-ray: 3/01 OK for kids: 8+.

Reels: 3,5 out of 5 Website: On Amazon BAMBI (2-Disc Diamond Edition Blu-ray/DVD Combo) Rating: G. On DVD/Blu-ray: 3/01.

OK for kids: 6+ Reels: 4.5 out of 5 Website: On Amazon

Media

JONAH: A VEGGIETALES MOVIE Rating: G On DVD/Blu-ray: 3/08 OK for kids: 3+ Reels: 4 out of 5 Website: On Amazon BARNEY: MOTHER GOOSE COLLECTION Rating: Not rated On DVD/Blu-ray: 3/15 OK for kids: 3+ Reels: 3.5 out of 5 Website: On Amazon

HAPPINESS IS A WARM BLANKET, CHARLIE BROWN Rating: Not rated On DVD: 3/29 OK for kids: 4+ Reels: 4.5 out of 5 Website: On Amazon.

Visit http://www.countyparents.com for more details on the DVD releases.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM Even the Force can’t save it.

Coulda been a contender

You want the truth? Great flick!

Something to talk about.

Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID 2: RODRICK RULES Not yet rated; likely PG. In theaters: 3/25.

OK for kids: 9+.

Reel Preview: 4 out of 5 Website: www.diaryofawimpykidmovie.com This sequel to 2010's ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ finds Greg Heffley (Zachary Gordon) starting seventh grade with pal Rowley Jefferson (Robert Capron). But Greg’s parents (Steve Zahn and Rachael Harris) are determined that he and older brother Rodrick (Devon Bostick) bond in a nice brotherly way. The only problem is that Rodrick is Greg’s chief tormenter.

Directed by David Bowers, this movie is based w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

13

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Teach children strong financial habits... ®

. . . with The Money Mammals®. Showing kids how to “Share and Save

™

and Spend Smart Too™”!

www.pbcu.com/rusaving 410.584.PBCU(7228) Choose Point Breeze if you work, worship, are members of and/or volunteer ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ŽƌŐĂŶŝnjĂƟŽŶ ůŽĐĂƚĞĚ ǁŝƚŚŝŶ ϮϬͲŵŝůĞƐ ŽĨ Ă ďƌĂŶĐŚ͘ Hunt Valley Branch 11104 McCormick Rd Hunt Valley, MD 21031

Bel Air Branch 410 S. Atwood Rd Bel Air, MD 21014

Golden Ring Branch 2 Philadelphia Court Baltimore, MD 21237

Summer

Camp Guide Academic Excellence. Independent Thinkers. Skilled Problem-Solvers.

Serving students grades K- 8

Learn Live Lead Friends Education: Expanding Minds, Fostering Talent and Practicing Peace for more than 300 years

Afternoon of the Arts Sunday, April 10th 2-4 PM

708 Highland Rd. ■ Street, MD 21154 ■ 410-452-5507 ■ info@harfordfriends.org

www.harfordfriends.org 14

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

I

n the following pages, you’ll find information on nearly 70 day and overnight camps. But, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Visit CountyParents.com and click on Camps to find even more information. You can search by town or type of camp and get more specifics on each camp. You can also link right each camp you peruse.

Many of these camps will also be participating in our annual Summer Camp & Education Fair on March 12th. So, don’t forget to stop by and visit them that day.

See page 10 for more details.

Bel Air Athletic Club 658 Boulton Street, Bel Air www.baac.com, 410-838-2670

Calvert Hall College High School 8102 LaSalle Road, Baltimore www.calverthall.com 410-825-4266

Camp Churchville at Churchville Presbyterian Church

n

n

EX, FD, HD n n n

n n

call for more information

Ages 3-12

2842 Churchville Road, Churchville www.churchvillepc.org, 410-836-2148

n

HD

Camp Friendship 573 Friendship Way, Palmyra, VA www.campfriendship.com 434-589-8950

O

Rising 1st-6th graders

FD

Ages 5-16

EX, FD, O

Ages 7-15

EX, O

Ages 6-16

FD

Camp Invention Various locations www.campinvention.org 800-968-4332 17433 Big Falls Road, Monkton www.camppuhtok.com 410-329-6590

Camp Sandy Cove Route 1, Box 471, High View, WV www.campsandycove.org 800-234-2683

CampKoski, LLC, CYC 13446 Bottom Rd., Baltimore 410-375-6681 www.campkoski.com

Children’s Christian Center

Childtime

n

Chung’s TKD Martial Arts

n

child to adult

EX, FD, HD

Diamond Dance Center

3+

FD, HD

Ages 4-15

FD

n

Ages 6 & up

HD

Ages 8-12

FD

n

n n

n

n

n

1617 Eden Mill Road, Pylesville www.edenmill.org 410-836-3050

Exploration Art School

n

www.explorationartschool.com 410-652-6411

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

n n

2806 Wesleyan Drive, Churchville www.nmdfca.org 443-299-9566

Freestate Sports Arena

n

3 up to 14

5811 Allender Rd., White Marsh www.freestatesports.com 410-335-6400

n

n n

136 Industry Lane, Forest Hill www.diamonddancecenter.com 410-638-6332

Eden Mill Nature Center

OT

FD

SC

6 weeks - 12

n

SN

EX, FD

SP

Ages 3-12

RE

n n n n

Bel Air & Havre de Grace www.chungsmartialarts.net 410-569-3345 (Bel Air)

Hours: FD=Full Day; HD=Half Day; PD=Partial Day; EX= Extended Day; O=Overnight

HOW TO USE THE GRID:

FD, EX

804 Moores Mill Road, Bel Air www.childtime.com 410-893-1580

n

n n n

Ages 3-12

21 Linwood Avenue, Bel Air www.baumc.com 410-420-8304

n

Camp Puh' Tok

HOURS

2111 A Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air www.celebree.com 410-515-8750

n

Ages 6-16

AGES

TR

n

AR

EX, FD, HD n n n

Ages 3-15

Celebree Learning Centers

AD

n

CAMP

AC

EX, FD, HD

OT

child to adult

SC

HOURS

SN

AGES

AAA TKD Martial Arts 2906 Emmorton Rd., Abingdon 410-515-2123

SP

RE

TR

AR

AD

CAMP

AC

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

n

n n

EX, FD, HD n

n

Category (Cat.): AC=Academic; AD=Adventure; AR: Arts; TR=Traditional; RE=Religious; SP=Sports; SN=Special Needs; SC=Science; OT=Other

®

Searchable, Mapped Camp Guide

ENCOURAGING CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT THROUGH INTERACTIVE PLAY

Music & Movement Development of motor skills Circle Time • Parachute play Intro. to letters, numbers, colors & shapes • Art Class FUNdamentals of Sports 6 Week Session Dates & Me Oct. 12- Nov. 23; Nov. 29-Jan. 21 Parent session Forest Hill Location ONLY Call to schedule a FREE preview class! $ Join anytime–we pro-rate.

Mapped location

59

For more info: www.FUNdamentals123.com • 443-484-2512

Searchable by type of camp

Searchable by town

In the print version of this year’s Camp Guide, you'll find information on nearly 70 camps including location, type of camp, web site, and hours.

Online, there’s a searchable database with even more information at your fingertips!

Visit www.CountyParents.com and select “Camps” from the left menu.

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

15

FUNdamentals

6 mos. to 5 yrs.

Huntington Learning Center

Ages 2-10

FD, HD

460 Granary Rd., Forest Hill www.goddardschool.com 410-420-0666

n

Ice World

n

n

Ice World Figure Skating

n

EX, FD

n

Ages 8-17

FD

n

Ages 5-13

EX, FD

0 - adults

FD, HD

The John Carroll School 703 Churchville Rd., Bel Air www.intensitybasketball.com, 443-744-0925

n

Ages 2-adult

701 Whitaker Mill Rd., Joppa www.harfordballetcompany.org 410-877-0777

It’s All Fun and Games Day Camp

Harford Christian School 1736 Whiteford Road, Darlington www.emc-hcs.org 410-457-5103

Harford Community College

Elementary Senior High

n

HD

n

Joyful Sounds School of Music Ages 4-18

401 Thomas Run Road, Bel Air www.harford.edu 443-412-2191

EX, FD, HD n

n n

n

n

3-18 yrs

EX, FD, HD

n

Ages 6-17

HOW TO USE THE GRID:

FD, O

n

Hours: FD=Full Day; HD=Half Day; PD=Partial Day; EX= Extended Day; O=Overnight

n n n

6 weeks -12 yrs

3415 Box Hill Corporate Center Dr., Abingdon www.kiddieacademy.com 410-515-0788

Kids First Swim Schools 2213 Commerce Rd., Forest Hill www.kidsfirstswimschools.com 410-420-SWIM

Harford Lacrosse Camp

n

PO Box 691, Forest Hill www.joyfulsounds.net 410-638-8979

Kiddie Academy® Child Care Learning Centers

Harford Gymnastics

n

1810 Valleybrook Dr., P.O. Box 175, Kingsville www.funandgamescamp.com 410-879-4460

n n

Infant - Adult

n

2219 E. Churchville Rd., Bel Air www.lagarderie.com 410-734-9218

n

n

n

n

HD

La Garderie School for the Young

OT

Ages 6-16

SC

n

SP

EX, FD

RE

Ages 5-18

TR

n

SN

AR

AD

HD

1300 Governor Court, Abingdon www.iceworld.com 410-612-1000

Intensity Basketball, LLC Harford Ballet Company

Bel Air www.southernexposurelax.com 888-415-9988

HOURS

1300 Governor Ct., Abingdon www.iceworld.com 410-612-1000

Goddard School

701 Whitaker Mill Rd, Bel Air www.harfordgymnastics.com 410-879-3718

AGES Ages 5 -adults

565 Baltimore Pike, Bel Air www.huntingtonlearning.com 410-420-3020 n n n

HD

2213 Commerce Rd., Forest Hill www.fundamentals123.com 443-484-2512

OT

SC

SN

SP

RE

n

Various Locations funwithforeignlanguage.com 443-616-7343

CAMP

AC

Fun With Foreign Language

TR

HD

AR

HOURS

Ages 4-6

CAMP

AD

AGES

AC

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

n

n

Category (Cat.): AC=Academic; AD=Adventure; AR: Arts; TR=Traditional; RE=Religious; SP=Sports; SN=Special Needs; SC=Science; OT=Other

A Very Special Island for Your Very Special Treasure Immediate openings available for all ages in our adapted classrooms, as well as our NEW Traditional Preschool Room for 2-3 year olds!

• Hours: 7am – 6pm • Family social events • Serving Children 6 weeks to • Referrals for specialized 21 years services • After school care available • Day care vouchers accepted • Therapeutic environment for children with special • Outpatient Physical & needs Occupational Therapy

2105 Laurel Bush Rd., Suite 104 Bel Air, MD 21015 • 410-569-1141 www.treasureislanddaycare.net Mary Gerlich, PT, DPT, Director • Jennifer Crockett, OTR/L, Co-Director

“Instill a love of learning” at

MONARCH MONTESSORI SCHOOL

OPEN HOUNUDASYE S

13TH MARCH PM 2-4

Parent Toddler Classes Preschool (part day and full day)

Full Day Kindergarten Summer Camp Before & After School Care Come early....Stay late!

6 Asbury Rd. Churchville, MD 21028 • 410-836-9560 email: monarchmontessorischool@verizon.net www.monarchmontessorischool.net Approved by the Maryland State Department of Education American Montessori Society – Associate Member School

16

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

Ages 4-13

601 Light Street, Baltimore www.marylandsciencecenter.org 410-545-5960 Grades 2 - 12

River Valley Ranch

n

Rolling Hills Ranch - Freedom Hills Therapeutic Riding Program

n

Sandy Hill Camp

Science Camp Watonka

Ages 3-8

n n n n

HD

n

n

Ages 7 - 15 Boys

Hawley, PA www.watonka.com 570-226-4779

Soccer Survival Training Camp Fallston Rec Complex 443-417-0856 3100 Monkton Road, Monkton www.saintjamesacademy.org 410-771-4816

n

Ages 5-15

FD, HD

HD

Ages 4-14

EX, FD, HD

2 mos. to adult

FD, HD

n

Ages 5-adult

FD

Ages 4-18

FD, HD

n

Entering K-10

EX, FD, HD

Sylvan Learning Center

2304 Churchville Rd., Bel Air www.thearenaclub.com 410-734-7300

Ages 6-17

EX, FD, HD n n n n

OT

SC

SN

SP

RE

n

TR

AC

HD

AR

HOURS

AD

AGES

FD, HD

Call for details

FD, HD, O

TOP of the BAY Sports Various Locations www.topofthebaysports.com 443-386-7220

U.S. Taekwondo Academy 109A North Main Street, Bel Air www.ustachang.com 443-243-4124

2.5 through 76 EX, FD, HD n n n n

HOW TO USE THE GRID:

n

n

OT

SC n

n

Category (Cat.): AC=Academic; AD=Adventure; AR: Arts; TR=Traditional; RE=Religious; SP=Sports; SN=Special Needs; SC=Science; OT=Other

CAMP 224 Baltimore Pike, Bel Air www.belairtkd.com 410-879-3176

n

The Maryland Zoo Grades 3-9

n

AGES

HOURS

Tae Kwon Dop Masters

n n

SP

Ages 10 and up

FD

Grades 1 - 12

FD, HD

5 - 15

EX, FD HD, O

n

Underwater Playground 1105 Business Center Way, Edgewood www.underwaterplayground.com 410-679-6413

n

Walters Art Museum

n

n n

Ages 5 and up,

Tutor Doctor Bel Air www.tutordoctorbelair.com 410-569-0059 Ages 5-adult, AC

n

703 E. Churchville Road, Bel Air www.johncarroll.org 443-774-0925

Druid Hill Park, Baltimore www.marylandzoo.org 443-552-5300

n n n

The Arena Club

Hours: FD=Full Day; HD=Half Day; PD=Partial Day; EX= Extended Day; O=Overnight

Entering grades 2-8

CAMP

Tollgate Marketplace 615 Bel Air Road, #661, Bel Air www.sylvanbelair.com 410-420-7340

n

n

AC

3 1/2 - 9 yrs. old

n

OT

n

EX, FD, HD

HOW TO USE THE GRID:

The John Carroll School Summer Programs

SN

n

SC

n

SN

Ages 7 - 15

Rage Box Contemporary Dance Center

2409 Creswell Road, Bel Air www.highlandsschool.net 410-836-1415

n n n

3380 Turkey Pt. Rd., North East www.sandyhillcamp.com 410-287-5554

Peabody Preparatory

The Highlands School

n n

SP

n

St. James Academy

121A Industry Lane, Suite 2, Forest Hill www.rageboxdancecenter.com 410-879-7243

n

RE

n n n

O

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center

21 E. Mount Vernon Place, Baltimore www.peabody.jhu.edu/prep 410-234-4630

n

TR

Ages 7-16

6 Asbury Road, P.O. Box 609, Churchville www.monarchmontessorischool.net 410-836-9560

1206-C Agora Dr., Bel Air www.my-gym.com 410-838-3042

SP

O

RE

8-16 yrs.

TR

EX, FD

AR

child to adult

AD

O

55 Rolling Hills Ranch Ln., Port Deposit www.freedomhills.org, 410-378-3817

Various locations www.circuscampstars.com

Monarch Montessori School

Ages 7-17

n

4443 Grave Run Rd., Manchester www.rivervalleyranch.com 443-712-1010

300 E. Seminary St., Mercersburg, PA 717-328-6225

Michael Rosman’s Circus Camp Stars

HOURS FD, HD, O

873 Long Drive, Aberdeen www.ripkencamps.com, 888-747-5361

www.towson.edu/mwp, 410-704-3593

Mercersburg Academy Summer Programs

AGES Ages 7-18

AC

OT

SC

Ripken Baseball

EX, FD, HD n n

HD

CAMP

AR

Maryland Writing Project/Student Writers’ Workshop, Towson University

SN

n

3011 Emmorton Rd., Abingdon www.marylandfencing.com 410-569-1452

Maryland Science Center

SP

RE

TR

AR

HOURS

7 to adult

AD

Maryland Fencing Club

AGES

AD

CAMP

AC

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

600 N. Charles St., Baltimore www.thewalters.org 410-547-9000

n

Hours: FD=Full Day; HD=Half Day; PD=Partial Day; EX= Extended Day; O=Overnight

n

Y of Central Maryland Walter & Betty Ward Family Center 101 Walter Ward Blvd., Abingdon www.ymaryland.org 410-679-9622

n

n

n

n

Category (Cat.): AC=Academic; AD=Adventure; AR: Arts; TR=Traditional; RE=Religious; SP=Sports; SN=Special Needs; SC=Science; OT=Other

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

17

At the moment learning becomes personal.

By nurturing each child as an individual, we instill a sense of pride in academic excellence, personal growth and community involvement. St. James oers an empowering education, enriched by ďŹ ne arts and athletics, for boys and girls, grades K-8. Contact 410-329-3292 or admissions@saintjames academy.org for a personal tour.

Open House: January 13, 8 am - 10 am.

3100 MONKTON RD, MONKTON, MD 21111 W W W. S A I N T J A M E S A C A D E M Y. O R G

18

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

HEALTHY FAMILY

The Great News About

Homesickness

BY

CHRISTOPHER A. THURBER, PH.D.

T

hat’s right... there’s great news about homesickness! For starters, you should know that: n Homesickness (or “missing home”) is normal. In study after study, researchers found that 95 percent of boys and girls who were spending at least two weeks at overnight camp felt some degree of homesickness. Children at day camp may also feel pangs of homesickness, but less frequently. n Homesickness is typically mild.

Nearly everyone misses something about home when they’re away. Some campers most miss their parents; others most miss home cooking, a sibling, or the family pet. Whatever they miss, the vast majority of children have a great time at camp and are not bothered by mild homesickness. n Homesickness is something everyone can learn to cope with.

In fact, research has uncovered multiple strategies that work for kids. Most kids

use more than one strategy to help them deal with homesickness. n Homesickness builds confidence.

Overcoming a bout of homesickness and enjoying time away from home nurtures children’s independence and prepares

home they love — and that’s a wonderful thing. Sometimes just knowing that what they feel is a reflection of love makes campers feel much better.

So if nearly everyone feels some homesickness, what can be done to prevent a

Overcoming a bout of homesickness and enjoying time away from home nurtures children’s independence and prepares them for the future. them for the future. The fact that secondyear campers are usually less homesick than first-year campers is evidence of this powerful growth. n Homesickness has a silver lining.

If there’s something about home children miss, that means there’s something about

really strong case of homesickness?

Here’s a recipe for positive camp preparation: n Make camp decisions together. n Arrange lots of practice time away from home.

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

continues—

19

HEALTHY FAMILY The Great News About Homesickness

Swing Into Spring!

from previous page

Columbia 410-992-0992

MD, VA & DC’s Play Equipment Headquarters

Indoor Showroom

playgroundsuperstores.com/family

1-800-22 SWING

Severna Park 410-544-5222

Open Bible Christian Academy Now Registering PreK - 12th Grade Extended Care Available in our C.O.O.L. Club

Training children spiritually and academically for half a century.

OPEN HOUSE Second Monday of each month

9am-12N & 7pm-9pm 13 Open Bible Way, Kingsville, MD (off Bel Air Rd.,1 mile North of Sunshine Ave.)

PERR Y HALL / KINGSVILLE / BEL AIR areas

410-593-9940 www.obschool.org

n Share your optimism, not your anxiety. n Never ever make a pick-up deal.

OK, then, what are the most effective ways of coping with homesickness at camp? What advice can you write in a letter or e-mail to your son or daughter if you get a homesick letter?

Anti-Homesickness Strategies for Kids n Stay busy. Doing a fun, physical activity nearly always reduces homesickness intensity. n Stay positive. Remembering all the cool stuff you can do at camp keeps the focus on fun, not on home. n Stay in touch. Writing letters, looking at a photo from home, or holding a memento from home can be very comforting. n Stay social. Making new friends is a perfect antidote to bothersome homesickness. Talking to the staff at camp is also reassuring. n Stay focused. Remember that you’re not at camp forever, just a few weeks.

Bringing a calendar to camp helps you be clear about the length of your stay. n Anti-homesickness strategies take some time to work. Kids who stick with their strategies for five or six days almost always feel better.

Mom and Dad, your help preparing your child for this amazing growth experience will pay huge dividends. After a session of camp, you’ll see an increase in your child’s confidence, social skills, and leadership. And while your son or daughter is at camp, you can enjoy a well-deserved break from full-time parenthood. Remember: Homesickness is part of normal development. Our job should be to coach children through the experience, not to avoid the topic altogether.

To learn more about camp and child development, please visit the American Camp Association’s family-dedicated Web site: www.CampParents.org.

Originally printed in CAMP Magazine, reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association © 2006 American Camping Association, Inc.

20

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

Calendar of Events

6

12

6 - 12

County Parents Magazine Maple Magic

Summer Camp & Education St. Margaret Elementary School Bel Air

Ladew Topiary Gardens Monkton

2011

MARCH SU

M

27

28

TU 1

W

TH

F

SA

2

3

4

5

10 11

12

6

7

8

9

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

1

2

4 - 13 MARCH

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Chesaapeake Theater, Harford Community College, Bel Air, 443-412-2217. $

5 SATURDAY

10TH Annual Chocolate & Candy Festival More Than a Dozen Chocolatiers, Candy Makers, and Sweet Treat Merchants will be On-Hand to Celebrate the 10th Anniversary.10 am-3 pm, The Bel Air Armory, Bel Air, 410-638-1023. $ (Children under 5 are free).

Reptile Party Reptiles might be cold-blooded; but they make for one hot party. Play games and eat reptile snacks. Touch and interact with amazing live reptiles. Pre-Registration Required.

1:00 – 2:30pm, Eden Mill Nature Center, Pylesville, 410-836-3050. $

6 SUNDAY Look for us at these events!

Visit www.CountyParents.com to search the calendar of events by month and by type of event.

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times on all calendar listings.

Maple Magic at Ladew Gardens Come experience the process of maple sugaring as we head out to Ladew's Nature Walk to identify trees, observe tapped maple trees and collect some sap! Learn how to boil down the sap to make yummy, golden brown syrup.

Teen Tech Week Harford County Public Library Various Locations

2:00 – 4:00pm, Call to register. Ladew Topiary Gardens, Monkton, 410-557-9570x226. $

8 TUESDAY

Nature Stories & Crafts Whispering Winds Will March winds come in like a lion or like a lamb? Come find out as we read about the wind and its important role in nature. Make a fun pinwheel craft to twirl in the wind!

Advance registration req. Adult must accompany child. Ladew Topiary Gardens, Monkton, 410-557-9570x226. $

4th Annual Mardi Gras Parade & Festivities Join the festivities as we parade down Washington Street to celebrate Mardi Gras. 6:30 pm, Washington Street, Havre de Grace. FREE

11 FRIDAY

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater This talented troupe returns to thrill audiences with the unique comedy and juggling skills of Gregory Popovich, and the extraordinary talents of his performing pets – all rescued from animal shelters! It's a show that kids of all ages are sure to enjoy! 7:00 – 8:30pm, Amoss Center, Bel Air, 443-412-2211. $

12 SATURDAY

Summer Camp & Education Fair Conveniently explore camps and academic programs all in one place! Talk one-to-one with representatives. Gain person insights, register your child or take home information.

w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | MARCH 2011

25

Calendar of Events First 400 families receive a free camp sack.

Enjoy family entertainment throughout the day. 10:00 – 3:00pm. St. Margaret Elementary School, Bel Air, FREE admission.

Advance registration required. Adult must accompany child. 12:30 – 1:15, Ladew Topiary Gardens, Monkton, 410-557-9570x226. $

13 SUNDAY

Join us for exciting hands-on chemistry and environmental science fun, guided by guest scientists from the local community. Ages: 10 13 or 5th to 8th grade, 4:30 - 6 pm, Anita Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon, 410-612-1688. $

Cloud Watcher

Learn about different cloud formations. Create a cloud key to use while you look to the skies.

For ages: 8 – 11. Anita Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon, 410-612-1688. $

19 SATURDAY

Historic Nature Walk On The North Park Trail Enjoy a free, guided nature and historical trail walk on the North Park Trail. The walk is approximately one mile and takes about one hour. Meet at the Lock House. 10 am, Susquehanna Lockhouse Museum, Havre de Grace, 410-939-5780. FREE

25 FRIDAY

Nature Stories & Crafts - Spring has Sprung!

Let's celebrate this most joyous time of year with stories and making a fun take home craft.

ORGANIZATION CONTACTS Aberdeen HCPL 21 Franklin Street, Aberdeen, 410-273-5608 Abingdon HCPL 2510 Tollgate Road, Abingdon, 410-638-3990 Bel Air HCPL 100 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Bel Air, 410-638-3151 Darlington HCPL 1134 Main Street, Darlington, 410-638-3750 Eden Mill Nature Center 1617 Eden Mill Road, Pylesville, 410-836-3050 Edgewood HCPL 629 Edgewood Road, Edgewood, 410-612-1600 Fallston HCPL 1461 Fallston Road, Fallston, 410-638-3003 Hays House Museum 324 Kenmore Avenue, Bel Air, 410-838-7691 Jarrettsville HCPL 3722 Norrisville Road, Jarrettsville, 410-692-7887 Jerusalem Mill 2813 Jerusalem Road, Kingsville, 410-877-3560 Joppa HCPL 655 Towne Center Drive, Joppa, 410-612-1660 Ladew Topiary Garden 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton 410- 557-9466 and press 5 Norrisville HCPL 5310 Norrisville Rd., White Hall Whiteford HCPL 2407 Whiteford Rd, Whiteford

26

The Finton Formula Fun Visiting Scientist Series

27 SUNDAY

Bluebird Nest Box Prepare for the arrival of bluebirds and brush up your woodworking skills. Build a nest box, learn where to place them, and have fun!

Bring a cordless drill and Phillips screwdriver, if you have them. Ages: 8 - adult, 8-12 w/adult. 12:30 - 2 pm, Anita Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon, 410-612-1688. $10 per box

Ongoing Tots & Dots You and your child will have fun as we explore, learn and play together. All kids 5 and under are welcome. Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30 -10:15, Tiddlywinks, !7 No. Main St, Bel Air, 443-371-6420. $

Teen Tech Week 6-12 MARCH

Harford County Public Library Computer Club Jump into the Internet with gaming and streaming like you've never seen before. Join other teens as we explore the world of computers. Aberdeen, Tue Mar 8 , 4:00-5:00 pm.

Gaming Careers Warren Capps, Senior Game Designer for BreakAway Ltd, will talk about the future of gaming, its design and its uses, and answer your questions about a career in the field of gamebased technology. Registrants will participate in a group design activity. Visit the following websites for games and projects Mr. Capps has worked on: www.ea.com and www.highvoltage.com. Snacks provided. Registration required. Aberdeen Sat Mar 12, noon-3:00 pm; Bel Air Sat Mar 5, 2:00-5:00 pm.

Mix & Mash @ Your Library Celebrate Teen Tech Week through a collaborative story mash up. Add a sentence and watch it change throughout the week.

Edgewood, Havre de Grace, Whiteford Mar 7-Mar 12 , Library hours.

Teen Tech Week - Guitar Hero Tournament Are you the best Guitar Hero player in town?

A prize will be awarded to the winner.

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

Grades 6-12. Registration required.

Abingdon Thu Mar 10, 6:00-7:30 pm Jarrettsville Wed Mar 9, 4:00-6:00 pm Joppa Wed Mar 16 4:00-5:30 pm

Children’s Programs Harford County Public Library Acting Out Animal Folktales Do creative drama with our favorite animal folk tales. Grades K-6. Registration required.

Joppa Sat Mar 5, 2:00 pm.

“Come Together“ ... Beatles Rock Band “Don't Let Me Down"--"Come Together" to “Twist and Shout“ and play some tunes.

Grades 3-8. Registration required. Fallston Thu Mar 3, 6:30-7:45 pm.

Fractured Fairy Tale Ball What if it were three little wolves scared of a BIG BAD PIG? What happened after the princess kissed the frog? Have these questions answered and enjoy crafts, stories, and tasty treats at our Fractured Fairy Tale Ball. Ages 4-7.

Registration required.

Edgewood Mon Mar 7, 6:30 pm.

Lego Club We supply the Legos, you supply the imagination! Grades K-8. Registration required. Bel Air Sat Mar 12 , 2:00 pm.

Merriment with Mother Goose Interactive story time with Moms, Dads and caregivers. Joppa All Ages. Tue Mar 8, 6:30 pm.

Reading With Karma Dogs Are you searching for a way to increase your child's interest in reading and build their self confidence? Children and teens may register to spend time reading to a calm and loving Karma Dog. Registration required. Ages 5 and up. Whiteford Sat Mar 12, 19, 26 11:00 am-1:00 pm.

Snakes, Spiders and Terrific Toads!

Discover why these and other creatures are good to find in your garden. Live snakes, insects and amphibians may be present at this program. Presented by the Anita C. Leight Estuary Center. Grades K and up.

Registration required.

Abingdon Wed Mar 30, 6:30-7:30 pm.

We welcome information about events of interest to families.

Listings are free and need to be submitted for consideration 6 weeks prior to the first of the month in which they are to appear.

Include date, time, location, telephone and email for questions.

Visit www.CountyParents.com to submit events via an online form in the Calendar section, fax 410-893-2727 or mail to County Parents, P.O. Box 1666, Bel Air, MD 21014

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FEATURING AN AWARD WINNING POOL AND LAZY RIVER

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www.FunAndGamesCamp.com 1810 Valleybrook Dr UĂŠP°"°Ê ÂœĂ?棂xĂŠUĂŠ ˆ˜}ĂƒĂ›ÂˆÂ?Â?i]ĂŠ ÊÓ£än7

Maryland’s Premier Ice Skating & Hockey Facility

SKATING FUN FOR EVERYONE! Learn to Skate Classes Forming Now! • Public Skating - Bring the Family!

We Do Birthday Parties! • School and Church Rentals Welcome!

Summer Camps for Skating and Hockey Enthusiasts of all levels!

Youth and Adult Hockey Classes and Leagues Group Discounts and Party Packages Available

Cool Tunes. Good Friends. Hot Food. Fast Ice! THE COOL PLACE TO CHILL

1300 Governors Court • Abingdon, MD • (410) 612-1000

www.iceworld.com