Parent

parent Lowcountry

SEPTEMBER 2009

FREE!

The Charleston Area’s No. 1 Parenting Resource

baby love!

All about those bundles of joy

Nancy O’Dell

The S.C. native gets personal about her new book and new baby girl

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contents

September 2009 Volume 12, No. 9

18

features 12 Small Wonders

Experts answer questions about those little bundles of joy.

35 Home Work

How to make working from home work for you.

O’Dell 18 Nancy

The celebrity candidly discusses being a mom and the birth of her new book.

columns Toddles & Tidbits

8

A quick look at news families need to know.

Getting to Know

24

Champion skier Ashley Woody.

Mom’s Life

33

Suzannah Bagwell shares what motherhood and life have taught her.

Craft Corner

38

Make cute baby booties with Holly Harrison.

Ask the Expert

40

parent

Attorney Lindsay Blanks explains the legal documents every parent should possess.

bAby lovE!

McGeath Freeman takes a look at new books.

Lowcountry

SEPTEMBER 2009

FREE!

The Charleston Area’s

No. 1 Parenting Resource

Books

All about those bundles of joy

42

Daily Adventures

Nancy O’Dell

45

A complete calendar of upcoming events and activities for families.

ThE S.C. nATivE gETS pERSonAl AbouT hER nEw book And nEw bAby giRl

on the cover: Carolina Dias Desá, 13 months, of Goose Creek.

Photo by Rick Rhodes Photography.

Clothing by www.2sweetsisters.com.

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Editor’s Notebook September 2009 Senior Editor Cathy Barrie

Time is Precious

Editor Shannon Brigham

Enjoy every moment with your kids

S

ometimes I honestly think I’ve lost track of time. It really wasn’t that long ago that I sat rocking my newborn son.

I remember looking at him and being so excited for what lay ahead.

I couldn’t wait until he crawled, and when he mastered that, until he walked.

I couldn’t wait for him to grow up. I can’t believe six years have passed, and I want it to slow down.

I always knew parenting wouldn’t be easy, but I think I was a bit skewed as to how difficult it actually would be and what would be hard about it.

I always thought the hardest part would be the lack of sleep or having to learn immense amounts of patience.

But it’s not.

For me, it’s feeling so proud of my son but being so sad at the same time because things are changing. We are changing.

It’s when your heart is totally full of one emotion and then replaced with another in a split second. I never knew I could feel so much all at once.

Time is going by too fast for me right now, and I enjoyed taking a step back in time for this month’s baby issue.

This month I read books, talked to many new parents and spent hours on the Internet in search of inspiration.

I also was able to interview Nancy O’Dell about her new book “Full of Life” and talk with her about life and motherhood in Los Angeles. (See story on Page 18.)

Her book took me right back to being pregnant again. I could relate to it because there were so many parallels. We’re both www.lowcountryparent.com

Graphic Designer Melissa Kelley

enthusiastic researchers (read every book out there), both had cravings for doughnuts – although mine was the Krispy Kreme ones with the white filling and chocolate icing – and we both were caught off guard by certain “unmentionables” of pregnancy.

The tone of the book is casual and personal. It’s a comfortable read that made me laugh, cry and totally relate. I remember reading so many stuffy pregnancy books when I was pregnant. This one is far from that.

I read parts of the book to my husband Matt, and he enjoyed it. He’d hear me snickering and ask what was so funny.

It brought up a lot of fond memories for both of us (even though at the time he probably did not enjoy painting my toenails when I couldn’t reach them, he does smile about it now).

I talked about that book for two weeks after finishing it, and I recommend reading it – pregnant or not.

Lastly, be sure to read my blog about Jodi Harter, a Lowcountry Parent advertising sales representative who tested out a gender identification test as part of our research this month. I had to enlist her, you see, because she is pregnant. Can you really learn the gender of your baby as early as six weeks? We tested it out. Find out if Jodi is having a girl – or a boy – and if the test really works!

Take Care,

Contributors Suzannah Bagwell, McGeath Freeman, Holly Fisher, Holly Harrison, Emily Lane, Rick Rhodes web developer Amy Freeman Niche Publications Manager Matt Winter Advertising Sales Manager Doug Kifer dkifer@postandcourier.com • 843-958-7394 Advertising Sales Representatives Jodi Harter / Mt. Pleasant, James Island jharter@postandcourier.com • 843-958-7391 Jane A. Redden / North area, Downtown jredden@postandcourier.com • 843-958-7395 Coleman Faircloth / West Ashley cfaircloth@postandcourier.com • 843-937-5725 Advertising art director Tamara Murray Wright Advertising graphic designers Laurie Brenneman Amber Dumas Ashlee Kositz DISTRIBUTION Christina Bean 134 Columbus St. Charleston, SC 29403 Lowcountry Parent is published monthly. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services.

We reserve the right to reject any advertisement or listing which is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, we cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by authors. In no event shall unsolicited material subject this publication to any claim for holding fees. Copyright 2009 by Evening Post Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Lowcountry Parent is a registered trademark.

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toddles & tidbits

1 in12

FREE infant eye exams!

The American Optometric Association and The Vision Care Institute of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care Inc. have partnered to create InfantSEE, a no-cost public health program developed to provide professional eye care for infants nationwide.

Through InfantSEE, optometrists provide a onetime, comprehensive eye assessment to infants in their first year of life, offering early detection of potential eye and vision problems at no cost regardless of income. Eye-care doctors who have the instruments and resources not available to general-care doctors like pediatricians and family physicians can detect potential problems that, if left undetected, may lead to learning and developmental issues later.

To learn more about the program, call 888-396-3937 or visit www.infantsee.org.

teens show signs of behavioral addiction to video games.

Source: Association for Psychological Science

kids fresh fit competition Subway of South Carolina is launching the Fresh Fit Video and Poster Competition to reward the area’s youth for being today’s leading “experts” in health and fitness.

“Our hope with this competition is that children and youth in our area will be excited to share how they stay fit and the unique ways they exercise and live healthy,” says Subway of South Carolina/Charleston board chair Rhonda Kilgore. “So often we hear about what we as a nation are not doing to be healthy and we want to shine a light on what South Carolina students are doing right to be healthy and fit.”

Those wanting to participate should show Subway how they stay healthy and fit by either creating a drawing on a poster board or recording a 30- to 60-second video that will be judged by a local panel.

Prizes include a $1,000 fitness grant for the winner’s school or club and a $1,000 Subway Card. Information about the competition and entry forms will be avail-

organicKidz Stainless Steel Baby Bottles

able at local Subway restaurants starting Sept. 8.

OrganicKidz baby bottles are the first stainless steel baby bottles on the market. They are non-leaching, unbreakable, dent resistant and dishwasher safe.

The bottle retails for $19.99 and is available at www. priceproductsllc.com. For more information and retail locations visit www.organickidz.ca.

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The competition is open to all elementary, middle and high school students. Entries will be accepted between Sept. 8 and Oct. 8.

Winners will be announced at the end of October.

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toddles & tidbits Tanzania Watson (left), 6, and Niaisia Saunders pet a ball python.

lunchroom Revolution

Using Crayola TaDoodles Crayon Buddies, designed for a child’s first palm grasp, toddlers can scribble away on the light-up tummy or anywhere else on the washable bear. With one quick swipe of a damp cloth, the scribbles disappear and the “TaDoodling” fun can start again.

Features a color-on reusable and soft TaDoodler body and tummy that lights up when pressed, two music modes, including one for coloring fun and one for quiet time. Available at local retail stores for $24.99.

School lunch menus need to change, according to chef Ann Cooper, the nation’s “Renegade Lunch Lady,” and Whole Foods Market.

The two entities have teamed up to offer free advice at www.thelunchbox.org to help food service directors make healthy, tangible changes in their cafeteria menus.

Schools offer processed foods high in fat, junk food and soft drinks loaded with sugar that are a public health time bomb, Cooper says. She hopes the Web site will help lunchroom managers switch to fresh, natural, made-from-scratch foods. It includes recipes, resources for natural foods, training videos, educational tools and community activism tips.

Whole Foods, which has a supermarket in Mount Pleasant, will donate to the cause and sponsor a School Lunch Revolution donation drive at check-out stands in its stores and on its Web site through September. Cooper and a supermarket representative will lobby Washington for stronger nutritional requirements, and Cooper will go to several major U.S. cities to tout the importance of healthy lunches.

– Warren Wise, The Post and Courier

recalls Bugaboo Bee Strollers 800-460-2922

Circo Booster Seats 800-440-0680

Safety 1st SmartLight Stair Gates 866-690-2540

Jewelry craft kits (#67117 and #67118)

800-772-2846

Photo by Alan Hawes/The Post and Courier

Crayola Beginnings TaDoodler

First Day Festival enjoys another successful year The day before Lowcountry students began returning to class in August, the area’s biggest backto-school celebration gave children and families the opportunity to have a good time while getting ready for school.

A crowd that was estimated to be close to 10,000 strong turned out for the city of Charleston-sponsored First Day Festival, held Aug. 16 at Liberty Square near the South Carolina Aquarium and Charleston Maritime Center. Parents and students picked up free school supplies, including bookbags and composition notebooks, offered by local businesses and organizations. Families visited more than 80 informational booths and exhibits while carrying bags loaded with free goodies.

Some attendees came from outside Charleston County, but Mayor Joe Riley, who mingled with festival attendees and community leaders, said families from neighboring counties were welcome to come to the city-sponsored event. Nearby attractions such as the South Carolina Aquarium were built for the entire region to enjoy, and he was glad to see so many people celebrating the start of the school year.

“This is a world-class event,” Riley said. “It just gets better and better. I don’t think there’s a better First Day Festival in the country.”

– Diette Courrégé, The Post and Courier

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Story by Shannon Brigham

small

wonders Experts offer advice to help parents handle the complexities of babies with ease

Ryland Curwan, 7 months old, of Goose Creek.

Photo by Rick Rhodes Photography Clothing by www.2sweetsisters.com

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How much sleep does my baby need?

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According to Dr. John Sperry of Charleston Pediatrics, approximate sleep requirements for babies are as follows: newborn = 16.5 hours/day 1-month-old = 15.5 hours 6-month-old = 14 hours 1-year-old = 14.75 hours

Photo © Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime.com

Parents are naturally full of wonderment when it comes to their babies. But sometimes – no matter how prepared they are – they can be caught by surprise by some of the things that accompany being a mom or a dad. L ocal experts offer tips and tricks for handling some of the most common – and least common – occurrences that come along with the territory of parenthood.

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Almost every mother who asks about the hiccups should know she probably felt her baby hiccup well before he was born.

“It’s very, very common. It doesn’t harm them. Why they do it probably has to do with just some discoordination with swallowing and things like that,” says Dr. John Sperry of Charleston Pediatrics.

For most babies the hiccups will simply stop eventually. Drinking liquids can also help alleviate the annoyance.

Is my “Mr. Picky” normal?

Photo by Shannon Brigham

Why do babies get the hiccups? do they hurt?

Jessica and Mike Munday of Summerville tried to conceive for more than three years.

Last year, their prayers were answered when in vitro fertilization finally took and Jessica gave birth to a healthy, beautiful baby boy.

Carter, now 7 months old, is right on track – about to crawl and a bundle of energy. But sometimes, he just doesn’t want to eat his baby food.

“He shuts his lips after about an ounce and only wants to nurse,” his mom says.

Carter Munday But that is perfectly OK, Roberts says, and the Mundays don’t need to worry. Breast milk or formula is designed to be 100 percent nutrition for the first year of life. Whatever other foods they eat are extra.

Sometimes parents think since the baby is eating jar foods, they should fill them up with food and then nurse or give them formula, but it’s actually opposite.

“What they end up doing is decreasing total calories and range of nutrients. A little jar of Stage 1 carrots has 30 calories. It’s mainly all carbohydrates; if the baby fills up on the jar food and his stomach is filled up from the volume, he’s going to end up drinking less breast milk or formula. It’s actually better for him to drink more breast milk or formula in the first year.”

Did you know?

Crying is your baby’s aerobic workout Babies during the first six to eight weeks of age cry more as they get older and stronger, says Dr. John Sperry of Charleston Pediatrics.

It’s normal but it does surprise people. They have more endurance as they get older and stronger.

“I had a teacher who said that we should look upon their crying as their aerobic exercise,” Sperry says. “They all do it and they’re supposed to do it.”

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t address whatever’s making a baby cry at any particular time, but no matter how much you hold them, feed them or keep them clean babies are going to cry – that’s normal.

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How can i help my baby teethe naturally?

Photo by Shannon Brigham

Kai Dilling and wife Francisca of Mount Pleasant are totally in love with their son.

Cole, 7 months, is a happy-go-lucky, social little guy who is the center of attention in the Dilling household. But now Cole is teething and is becoming increasingly uncomfortable as his teeth arrive. His parents know this is normal but wonder if there are any tricks to help ease his sore gums.

He’s right on track developmentally and the pain that accompanies teething is totally normal, according to Dr. James Roberts, associate professor of pediatrics at the Medical University of South Carolina.

Kai Dilling with Children generally start son Cole. teething at 4 to 6 months, but it’s normal to still be teething well after 12 months.

Roberts recommends using Tylenol to treat teething pain.

But the Dillings are cautious about giving their son medication and would prefer a more natural solution to ease his tender gums.

Roberts says giving children teething rings or something cold to gnaw on are alternatives to drugs, with strict supervision of course.

“I’ve even heard of people using a bagel out of the freezer.”

He doesn’t recommend using numbing agents, such as Orajel, because of possible rare complications associated with them. Babies essentially can become hypoxic and unable to breathe.

“I know there has been at least one case at MUSC. So I know it happens, and it’s easily preventable. There’s going to be plenty of people that use Orajel and swear by it, but I don’t recommend it.”

(

)

Natural ways to soothE painful gums

• Teethers • Frozen or chilled washcloths • Frozen bananas (peeled and cut in half

first, strings removed – for children already introduced to solid food and fruits) • A cooled chamomile tea bag (only use if allergies are not possible) **Always supervise children

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Bad dream or night terror?

Jennifer Willbanks of Goose Creek has noticed her son Broddy, 3 months, lately wakes up from a deep sleep screaming and very upset. Broddy is normally a good sleeper, and she wonders if he’s having bad dreams.

Roberts says doctors don’t know exactly when dreaming starts, but he thinks everyone – even infants – dream.

“With a 3-month-old, however, it is certainly possible that the baby woke from a scary dream, but it’s equally possible he just woke up ready to eat or crying for some other reason.”

Waking up screaming is fairly common for babies and doesn’t necessarily mean it’s from a bad dream.

But, children do have bad dreams, and they’re usually about being separated from their parents, which is a young child’s biggest fear, he says.

However children 12 to 24 months of age can have what are called night terrors – where they wake from a deep sleep screaming in terror, sit up wide-eyed and then go back to sleep not remembering anything that happened.

What’s the difference?

A night terror wakes children from sleep and they don’t have any recollection of it.

Night terrors occur during deeper stages of sleep, like around midnight, Roberts says.

Nightmares or bad dreams occur during REM sleep, a normal stage of sleep characterized by rapid movements of the eyes.

How often are newborns supposed to have a dirty diaper?

Expect to go through 10 to 12 diapers per day.

It’s a good idea to keep a journal of wet and dirty diapers to ensure your baby stays well hydrated, especially for breast-fed babies – it’s harder to determine how much they’re eating, says Dr. James Roberts.

Likewise if your baby has only had one dirty diaper in the last 24 hours, it could be that he’s not getting enough to eat or is constipated. It might be time to call your pediatrician.

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“Full of Life: Momto-Mom Tips I Wish Someone Had Told Me When I Was Pregnant” is available at www. amazon.com or www. nancyodell.com.

Photo by Ulrica Wihlborg

Nancy O’Dell and daughter Ashby at home in California.

Ashby, age 2, already knows how to swim.

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Nancy Humphries O’Dell

She’s come

a long way

baby!

Story by Shannon Brigham

Nancy O’Dell, formerly Humphries, has been very busy since leaving the anchor desk at WCBD-TV in Charleston. She took time out of her schedule to chat about life since leaving Channel 2 and her newly released book “Full of Life: Mom-to-Mom Tips I Wish Someone Had Told Me When I Was Pregnant.”

Access Hollywood and supporting philanthropic endeavors close to her heart.

Surprise, surprise

Even though she read every pregnancy book available O’Dell says she was still surprised by a lot of aspects of pregnancy. She half joked with friends who’d been through pregnancies that they should’ve warned her of what was to come.

There are certain things people just don’t talk about.

“People don’t automatically just offer this information because they forget that it happened to them.”

And though she carried a thorough list of questions for her doctor with her to every appointment, she says “You don’t know what to ask if you don’t know what’s going to happen.”

The game played at one of her baby showers that required guests to write down tips about what she needed to know about labor and delivery and the remainder of her pregnancy only warranted more questions for her doctor.

I

t’s been 16 years since Nancy O’Dell sat on the Channel 2 anchor desk, but the Myrtle Beach native says she’s still nostalgic for Charleston. She visits whenever she can and hopes to retire here one day with her family.

She says she misses the “friendly Southernness” the most and the community feel of going to the grocery store and maybe seeing someone you know. “L.A. is so spread out, too big and the chances of that happening are next to none.”

O’Dell still keeps in touch with a lot of friends with whom she worked and met while living here.

“To this day probably some of my best girlfriends are those that I met in Charleston – and my high school friends.”

But life has become everything she ever imagined since marrying businessman Keith Zubchevich in 2005 and giving birth to a baby girl at age 41.

O’Dell now spends her days balancing motherhood with reporting entertainment news as co-anchor of the hit TV show

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A book is born

O’Dell says “Full of Life: Mom-to-Mom Tips I Wish Someone Had Told Me When I Was Pregnant” practically wrote itself.

It started while she was creating a scrapbook for daughter Ashby, now 2. O’Dell’s mom, Betty Humphries, scrapbooked as well.

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“It’s so fun to read – and to read it in my mom’s writing. I just found myself writing page after page of all these crazy things that happened to me that were so unexpected or scary or terrifying or surprising or embarrassing, and I realized that there’s such a need for a book like this.”

In the book, O’Dell shares not only her personal experiences while pregnant but also research as to why those things happened.

From skin changes to cramps to itching and emotional changes, she recorded all of her insecurities, questions and advice for others in a straightforward and personal way.

She even includes her mom’s recipe for spice cake, which she says is a tasty cure for constipation.

Motherly advice

O’Dell is enjoying motherhood and enjoys playing football with her two stepsons Tyler, 14, Carson, 10, and Ashby, who, having two older brothers, is rambunctious and plays hard.

Ashby is talking now and has already learned to swim.

“She loves the water – we call her Nemo.”

O’Dell says being a mom is the best thing ever.

“You can have the worst day at work or just in general, and come home and see that little face and have her come running up to me and give me the biggest hug. All the bad-day part goes away. It makes life worth living.”

O’Dell’s advice to other parents is to be in the moment and savor it when you’re with your children. Time goes by so quickly.

“We just celebrated her second birthday, I was thinking there is no way that she’s already 2. She’s gone from those days of being a baby to a little girl – and I can’t believe that.”

She knows how tough it can be to balance parenthood with career.

“I’ll turn down a work assignment and then I’m at home (because that’s where I need to be and want to be), and I’ll start thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, is my boss mad at me?’ And I’m not in the moment. You’ve decided to make the decision and you need to enjoy the moment – and be in the moment.”

And when asked if another book is in her future, she says she isn’t ruling it out.

“I definitely could write about the first year.”

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(clockwise from top left) The Zubchevichs: Carson, Nancy, Keith, Ashby and Tyler; Nancy with her Access Hollywood co-host Billy Bush; on set with Leonardo DiCaprio; Nancy with some of her celebrity friends at a tea: Shaun Robinson, Alison Sweeney, Lisa Rinna, Denise Richards and Jewel.

Zubchevichs Photo by Ulrica Wihlborg; All other photos provided by Nancy O’Dell.

A Mama’s Girl Giving Back Among her many philanthropic endeavors, including serving on the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet, Nancy O’Dell is a national vice president of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the ALS national ambassador. Her mother and best friend Betty Humphries passed away from complications related to ALS in 2008.

Last month O’Dell’s family along with the MDA formed a foundation in honor of her mother called Nancy and her mom Betty Betty’s Battle: Fighting ALS. on Nancy’s wedding day.

Nancy O’Dell will co-host the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon broadcast on WCSC Channel 5. It begins at 9 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, and lasts until 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7. Visit MDA.org or www.wcsc.com for more information.

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Getting to Know...

Story by Emily Lane

Ashley Woody Ashley Woody, in her element, at the ridge of ski bowl, known as “The Headwall,” in Crested Butte, after skiing through a feature known as “The Ear Canal.” The photo was taken in 2008.

W

hen she’s not chasing her daughter around, Ashley

Woody spends her spare time gardening and solving crossword puzzles.

But this Mount Pleasant mom has another side that craves dodging crags, trees, and other gnarly natural hazards while flying down snowcovered mountains at very high speeds.

Woody is mother to 8-year-old Patty and wife to charter-boat captain Dan, but she also managed to squeeze in a championship win last February for women over 40 at the 2009 Subaru U.S. Extreme Free Skiing competition in Crested Butte, Colo.

Woody picked up the sport on the slopes of Europe during her childhood as an Army kid who traveled a lot.

Even though she’s now settled in a seasonally challenged beach town and bears all the responsibilities of a mommy, she’s maintained a healthy balance between Mount Pleasant motherhood and hard-core winter athletics.

Q: What do you like the most about extreme skiing?

A: It’s an opportunity to completely hyperfocus on one thing, like there is nothing else.

I like that; it’s quiet.

Q: Is that a contrast to motherhood?

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A: Yes, [motherhood] is total chaos. You can’t even sit still or think, because you’re just going, going, going.

energy and generally bouncing off the walls.

Q: What’s the scariest skiing situation you’ve ever been in?

A: She does. I wish there was a way she could spend more time on the mountain. It’s an opportunity that not a whole lot of children have, and it’s a wonderful sport. And it’s a beautiful place. Winter is just something we don’t have that much of around here.

A: The finals of this competition. I guess there was a little bit of fear from pressure.

You don’t want to botch it in front of that many people. But it’s the scariest terrain I ever skied. It was the area of the mountain that is normally closed because it’s very dangerous. When I did the inspection run that morning, I thought, “Oh my God I’m insane, I have an 8-year-old at home.”

Q: Were you encouraged to compete?

A: It was completely my idea. My husband thinks I’m crazy. My mom seriously hopes I have it out of my system.

Q: Do you have a home out West?

A: We have a condo in Crested Butte.

Q: What’s your daughter like?

A: She’s extremely extroverted and full of

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Q: Does she ski?

Q: Has this been one of your dreams for a long time?

Not really. We would go out there in the winter and watch this competition, and we were skiing the same terrain and conditions.

And then last year in 2008, they had just a big snow year … And I thought … I’m just going to see if I can qualify, and I came in fourth place with no training. And I was like, “Oh my goodness, if I put my mind to it and work on it a little bit …” My goal was just to move up a place to get on the podium.

Q: How did you train for the competition?

A: In the gym, a lot – weight training for balance and strength, and spinning for my cardio. Some yoga and body flow thrown in there.

Q: What has this experience taught you about yourself?

A: If I can do this, I can do anything.

Q: What has surprised you most about parenthood?

A: The relentlessness of it. You always have to be on. Always.

Q: Does skiing help you get away from that?

A: Yeah, it’s like a whole other world. And I do wish Patty could have been there. But I don’t know if that would have been good for me or for her. I don’t know how that would have affected my ability to focus.

Q: What is something that every parent should have – and know?

A: Patience and a first aid kit. We’re just having this summer of cut toes and stubbed feet and

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Photo by shannon brigham

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do with your family?

A: We enjoy going out on the boat. That’s really fun … and going to the beach.

Q: By yourself?

A: My favorite thing is to get up early on Sunday morning, get a cup of coffee and do the New York Times crossword puzzle. It’s my hour.

Photo provided

boo-boos and falling down. And they need to know themselves enough to be patient when you don’t want to be patient.

Q: What do you do to relax?

A: Work in the garden.

Q: What advice would you give to other parents who think they don’t have time to pursue their personal goals?

(Left) Ashley Woody and her family – Patty, 8, and husband Dan – at their Mount Pleasant home.

A: You just have to rearrange things. You just have to stick with it and carve out time and make it work. You have to show your children that you can do anything.

(Above) Woody won the masters women championship at the 2009 Subaru U.S. Extreme Freeskiing Championships earlier this year in Crested Butte, Colo.

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Mom’s Life Suzannah Bagwell

Baby Fog

Why moms don’t remember the details of those early years

I

don’t know about you, but the first 12 months of each of our children’s lives is shrouded in amnesia for me. I realized after a few weeks home with our second son that I couldn’t remember anything about our firstborn’s sleeping and eating schedule, how in the world we managed to feed him twice a night, work five days a week and keep our household in relatively good working order.

Those useful memories had been completely wiped out.

Before children, sleep deprivation was torture and the only way to recover was to sleep late the next day.

When my husband and I were newlyweds, we sometimes babysat our friend’s three children. We had a blast pushing them on the swings, playing board games, coloring, reading stories and in general making entirely too much noise.

They demanded every bit of attention we could give, and by the end of the night, we were whipped.

Once their grateful parents returned home, I remember collapsing into our car and thanking our lucky stars that we were escaping to our own quiet house and a nice sleep-in the following morning.

The difference between a life with or without a child is like night and day. Once that baby comes along, a new parent’s formerly carefree and spontaneous lifestyle undergoes a drastic and complete change.

The layette, nursery, books and showers are all fun distractions that help prepare us for what is coming. But as we’re preparing for that shift, there is another personal change we may be only vaguely aware of – and that is the love we are going to feel for our child. www.lowcountryparent.com

We had just adopted and brought our first son home from Hawaii when one evening, as I rocked and gave him his bottle, I fell madly and deeply in love.

I had never felt that maternal rush of emotion before, and it exactly pinpointed when the bond that forever binds a parent to a child formed between us. In that instant, the mother bear instinct took over, and I knew I would love him for all of my life.

The difference between a life with or without a child is like night and day. Once that baby comes along, a new parent’s formerly carefree and spontaneous lifestyle undergoes a drastic and complete change.

The burden of dirty diapers, throw-up and sleepless nights just disappeared from focus.

What I remember now is the joy I felt to see his eyes when he awoke and the immense satisfaction in filling his belly and watching him smile. I suppose that is the reason I have had such a hard time remembering the details of all that mundane stuff the second and third time around.

I did worry as new babies were joining our family that I wouldn’t be able to love or care

for them as I had been able to when it was just one. But I need not have worried. Each child brought his or her own personality into the family and because they are individuals, the love and care they receive, though just as deep and strong, has its own personal quality specific to them.

As our youngest turned 3, it dawned on me how much easier things had become. We were finished with diapers and the kids were communicating in complete sentences. They were sleeping through the night and could play on their own without needing parental supervision at all times.

An important threshold had been crossed even though I wasn’t aware of it as it was happening.

Now that our three precious babies are no longer babies, I can see what a terrific job we’ve done in raising them so far. No other personal achievement has ever filled me with more happiness than knowing that our family is taken care of and well-loved.

I’m grateful for being a parent and what that means for the rest of our lifetimes.

I acknowledge the challenges we’ve dealt with and the many we will surely face in the future, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.

When things have been overwhelming, other wise and more experienced parents assured us that the enormous effort and energy our young ones required was the most meaningful work and greatest gift we could give to them – and the future of our world.

Suzannah Bagwell has been a life coach for five years and lives with her husband and three children in Summerville. Visit www.suzannah bagwell.com.

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Home Office

Making your

work

Written by Holly Fisher Photos by Shannon Brigham

Working from home can provide much-needed flexibility for busy parents

Tom Jeffrey stayed home with his boys, Jack, now 7, and Joe, now 4, and worked as a freelance copy writer. His advice?

Set a schedule, and abide by it.

S

“It’s difficult to do it all, but it’s worth it,” Fuss says. “When I was working full time, I was working 9- and 10-hour days. Doing this works out really well. I’m not making near as much money, but it’s enough to help the household, and I’m home with the girls.”

Fuss has been working from home for four years. Now that her daughters, ages 5 and 7, are in school, the workday is slightly less hectic than when she had two toddlers to care for while working.

She still enjoys being able to pick them up from school, run to activities and even squeeze in a few errands during the day without kids fighting over who gets to ride in the shopping chart, she says.

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 15.1 percent of workers worked at home in 2004. Census data from 1980 shows only 2.3 percent worked at home; 3 percent in 1990 and 3.3 percent in 2000.

That number is rising, no doubt thanks to technology, as many

ummerville mother Stacie Fuss has the best of both worlds. She works part time as a re-

cruiter for a company based in Ohio but still has time to volunteer at her daughters’ school and as a Girl Scout troop leader. Because she works from home, Fuss has the flexibility to integrate work and family life. www.lowcountryparent.com

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 35

(Above) Stacie Fuss’s work-from-home schedule allows her stay activen in the lives of her daughters’ Kaitlyn, 7, and Emily, 5. She often volunteers at their schools and is a Girl Scout troop leader; (Right) Stacey Crew, who works from home, stays organized and focused while working. She doesn’t shield daughters Claire Evangelist, 11, and Jenna Evangelist, 8, from her mom responsibilities. workers need just a computer and Internet access to get their jobs done.

Tom Jeffrey spent a couple of years working from home as a freelance copywriter. His youngest son – a toddler at the time – was home with him during the day. Jeffrey says he “lived for nap time” so he could get work done.

Jeffrey now works in a Charleston office as a partner with advertising agency Hook Inc. Jeffrey says he likes an office environment – he has more stories to tell when he gets home, other than “the cat coughed up a hairball today,” he says. But says he misses the freedom of being able to escape to the park on a warm day.

Like anything, working from home has its benefits – checking e-mail in flannel pants and slippers – and its downsides – it can get lonely working alone all day.

Charleston area professional organizer Stacey Crew, mom to two children ages 8 and 11, knows all too well how important it is to stay organized and focused while working from home. She works from home assisting clients with organizational needs, writing her blog “The Organized Mama” and finishing a book, “The Organized Mom,” due out in November.

36 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

One of the challenges of working from home is separating work life and home life because the two tend to blur, she says. It’s easy to get distracted by laundry or dirty dishes.

“It can be tough to set boundaries when your office is down the hall from your bedroom, and you’re tempted to check e-mail at all hours of the day,” she says.

Crew offered some tips for making the most of working from home: H Set goals: At the beginning of each week, determine what you want to accomplish that week. That will help you judge your time and give you a better idea of what to expect during the week.

H Multitask: Instead of taking time away from your workday to run errands, wait until you pick the kids up from school and then stop by the bank and the dry cleaners. Crew says she keeps bottled water and snacks in her car to save time. “Don’t shield kids from the responsibilities mom has.”

H Create a dedicated workspace: Whether it’s a separate room or a desk in the den, create a space just for your work items.

H Set some office hours: You may

even want to shut the door to your home office at 5 p.m. or on Friday evening so you’re sure to take a break.

H To-do list vs. calendar: Keep a running list of things you need to do and then, based on their level of importance, put a few on your calendar each day.

H Make the most of nap time. If you’re working at home while caring for small children, schedule phone calls and work that requires your complete focus during naps. Give your children at least 30 minutes of undivided attention, and they’ll most likely play quietly while you check e-mail or tackle other small tasks.

H Get out: Working from home can be isolating. Schedule time during the week to meet a friend for lunch, attend a professional networking function or take your laptop to Starbucks just to have some human interaction.

Jeffrey says he used a drop-in day-care service where he could leave his son for two hours three days a week. Knowing he had that time available made it much easier to schedule meetings.

“Try to get some kind of set schedule,” he says. “A routine is the saving grace.” www.lowcountryparent.com

Fuss has worked hard to set boundaries.

She’ll put in a few extra hours after the girls go to bed, but she rarely works on the weekends, instead devoting that time to her family.

Yet even working some evenings is worth it for Fuss.

“I have been very spoiled,” she says. “I don’t get to be as big a part of their lives if I go back to work [in an office] full time. It’s extremely rewarding if you can do both, and it’s nice to have the flexibility.”

*

Twitter: 21st century watercooler

A downside of working at home is it can be solitary. You don’t have co-workers to swap weekend stories with or faceto-face meetings where ideas flow and creative juices spark.

However, you can connect with a whole new world online, albeit working from a home office. Professional organizer and author Stacey Crew uses Twitter and likens it to the office watercooler.

Twitter is sort of like instant messaging co-workers, industry colleagues, friends and strangers with thoughts, ideas, questions and tidbits of news and information.

Users can sign up for a free Twitter account and then select people to follow.

“Other people begin to follow you and suddenly you have colleagues to interact with during the workday,” Crew says.

Crew likes to log on to Twitter for 30 minutes or so a day to read comments from people she’s following and respond to ideas and questions. “It does get you out of your own head and into the masses,” she says.

For more information, visit www.twitter.com.

www.lowcountryparent.com

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 37

Craft Corner Holly Harrison

Make Your Booties Try this simple craft at a baby shower or first birthday party

T

hese baby booties are a really great way to dress up a party, and they can be used in so many ways. Try fill-

Materials

ing them with candy or other party favor items to be set out on tables at a baby shower or a first birthday party. You could even hand out invitations rolled up in the shoes, place mini cupcakes in them or use paper clips to make hooks for the

√ Styrofoam cup

√ Hole puncher

√ Thin ribbon

√ Scissors

√ Clear nail polish

√ Hot glue gun

(optional)

shoes to be hung up as party decorations.

Holly Harrison is a regular contributor to Lowcountry Parent. Address comments, questions or craft suggestions to editor@lowcountryparent.com.

38 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

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baby bootie cups

1 2

Cut about an inch off the top of a Styrofoam cup.

3

Take your hole puncher and punch matching holes on each flap. Brush clear nail polish on the inside of each hole and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Be careful not to use too much polish or the Styrofoam will melt.

Finally, lace the ribbon through the booties like you would a real shoe. For a quicker option, try using a hot glue gun. Instead of punching holes, place a dot of hot glue to the flaps to hold it together, then hot glue a bow to it.

Start at the top of the cup and cut a slit down to about an inch from the bottom on the cup. Make an identical slit about an inch to an inch and a half from the first slit you made. This makes the tongue of the shoe. Next, press the tongue back and fold the sides in to create flaps over the tongue.

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Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 39

ask the expert

Prepare for the unthinkable

“

What are the legal documents every parent should have?

”

A

s parents we are supposed to plan ahead and consider the unthinkable. You absolutely must prepare some documents ahead of time to preserve your family’s safety and security. This can save you hours of worry and thousands of dollars.

Lindsay Blanks, a Charleston attorney whose practice areas include wills and estates, offers some answers about what documents parents need. (For more information, visit www.charleston-lawyer.com.)

Court Orders Custody/Visitation Papers

If you have ever been involved in any legal actions with the other parent or your child, always keep a copy of the court order relating to custody and visitation on hand. Assume the following scenario: You and the other parent share custody. One parent says this is my weekend for visitation; you say it’s your weekend. Having a set of custody/visitation papers handy can prevent a nasty fight. You probably should keep a small calendar with the papers, too, so you can refer to it as needed. In a worst-case scenario when the police are called, they may not be able to help resolve the dispute without a copy of the court order. Never call the police to help with visitation unless absolutely necessary. The police may not help even with a copy of the court order, but without it, they absolutely will not help.

Last Will And Testament

Every parent needs a will. If you die without a will South Carolina law will equally divide your estate between your spouse and the children. This can leave the surviving spouse strapped for money since the child’s half of the estate will be inaccessible until they reach the age of 18. This can also lead to some undesirable results, such an 18- or 19-year-old receiving a large sum of money. The child probably is not mature enough at 18 or 19 to handle the money wisely. A will would allow you to parcel this money out so that the child receives part at age 18 (say 25 percent) and the rest later when he is older. If your children are very young you can select someone (called a trustee) to manage the money for the child.

Usually the will says the trustee will only use the money for the child’s education or support. This also has the benefit of allowing you to select the person or entity, such as a bank, 40 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

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who will serve as trustee. Having a will also allows you to designate the person you would like to care for your children. The courts do not have to follow your recommendation, but they will consider it. This would give the person you designate as custodian a significant advantage if there is a custody dispute after your death. It is usually best to have a lawyer prepare a will for you to avoid any challenges.

Living Will

A living will is a document that tells the hospital what you would like to do in the event you are severely injured and require life-sustaining measures. For example do you want the hospital to withhold food and water if your death is imminent? Would you want the hospital to keep you alive (provide food and water) if you are in a vegetative state and not going to recover? The purpose of this document is to relieve your family of the responsibility of making these decisions and to make your own wishes known.

Durable Power Of Attorney

A power of attorney allows a person you designate to sign documents and make decisions for you in the event you become incapacitated. For example, if you have a stroke or heart attack your spouse, child or trusted family member might need access to money to pay bills or the right to endorse checks to deposit money in the bank accounts. A power of attorney is a dangerous document because, in the wrong hands, it can be abused. You should be very careful about who you choose to have a power of attorney. I have handled several cases where parents were forced to sue their own children to recover money that was taken through the misuse of power of attorney. Despite its danger, if the power of attorney is carefully drafted it can save thousands of dollars in unnecessary legal fees.

*

ASK US: Got a question you’d like Lowcountry Parent to get answered by a local expert? Send your question to editor@lowcountryparent.com or by mail to Lowcountry Parent magazine, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 29403, ATTN: Ask the Expert. Include your name, phone number and city of residence. www.lowcountryparent.com

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 41

Books McGeath Freeman

The Search is On Whether it is magic, bad guys or dinosaurs, it seems everyone is looking for something in new children’s books “Gone with the Wand”

By Margie Palatini Illustrated by Brian Ajhar For ages 4–8

The world’s top fairy godmother has a wand on the fritz and doesn’t know what to do. She is in the dumps and simply lost without her wand. Her best friend, a tooth fairy, tries to help out with suggestions for other positions a plump fairy might be able to fill – fairy duster, snow fairy, sugarplum fairy and more. Nothing seems to fit. Palatini meanders a bit in her storytelling but eventually brings both you and the fairies around to the right job for a fairy godmother.

There is no moral here just a bit of fun. Children and parents will be enthralled by Ajhar’s illustrations. He brings each character to life with pizzazz. Children will enjoy pointing out characters from other fairytales in the fairy godmother’s photo collection.

The story is cute, but the illustrations will have my family and I reading “Gone with the Wand” multiple times.

For ages 4–8

This clever parody of detective noir is sure to please even the most hard-boiled reader. With quick catchy dialogue and wordplay and puns galore children will dive into the mystery as Ace Lacewing follows the case of a little bug with a big bump. Scratch Murphy, the owner of Six Legs Park, is mugged; his fleabag full of money goes missing, and everyone is a suspect.

42 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

“Max Spaniel: Dinosaur Hunt”

By David Catrow For ages 5–8

New readers will enjoy this adventure with Max Spaniel as he hunts for elusive dinosaurs. Much like a child with a good imagination, Max finds bones, hips, lips and teeth in the most unlikely of places.

What appears to be junk and discarded tools and toys begins to take shape.

Pretty soon the cat takes flight as the dinosaur comes to life. “A great hunter knows where to look.”

And Max certainly knows where to look in this tale. Children will relate to Max’s brand of play and adventure. Parents will see both their pets and their children in the character. And new readers will enjoy learning to read with this new series of tales starring Max Spaniel.

illustration © Roberto1977 | Dreamstime.com

“Ace Lacewing Bug Detective: Bad Bugs Are My Business”

By David Biedrzycki

With the help of his gal, Xerces, and his mosquito buddy on the force, Sergeant Zito, Ace questions the carpenter ants union, a hissing cockroach banker and a ladybug – as well as other sticky-fingered bugs.

Readers familiar with Biedrzycki’s first foray in the dark world of Motham City will enjoy this witty follow-up as will any newcomers. The digitally enhanced illustrations will have readers searching for visual puns and wordplay on the streets of the city and throughout the amusement park.

www.lowcountryparent.com

Additional reading: For more adventures, look for these titles “Chicken Dance”

By Tammi Sauer Illustrated By Dan Santat

kooky late 1950s Hollywood. Very loosely based on “The Odyssey,” this tale follows Iggy Birnbaum, who lives in a haunted hotel, from one strange encounter to another through an alternate world called Underland as she tries to discover why all the ghosts of Hollywood are disappearing. Very tongue-andcheek and very entertaining.

For ages 3–9

It’s always good to see fun references to Elvis. The King is alive and well in this silly story about a barnyard contest for tickets to an Elvis Poultry concert. Witty dialogue and wordplay are the rule as chickens set out to prove they have talent beyond clucking.

Children will giggle and laugh as the chickens “bawk and roll.”

“The Princess Plot”

By Kristen Boie For ages 9–12

Jenna has just won the part of the princess of a remote kingdom in a new movie. It’s a dream come true until strange things begin to happen, and she realizes she has an uncanny resemblance to the real princess. As the plot twists we discover plans are in motion to overthrow the country, and she is a pawn in the scheme. Political intrigue, fairytale, and fun all rolled into one.

“The Yggyssey: How Iggy Wondered What Happened to All the Ghosts, Found Out Where They Went, and Went There”

By Daniel Pinkwater Illustrated by Calef Brown For ages 9–12

This follow-up to “The Neddiad” is set in a

McGeath Freeman is a regular columnist for Lowcountry Parent. Address comments, questions or book suggestions to editor@lowcountry parent.com. To see past reviews and more on children’s literature, visit McGeath Freeman at www.chapteronereviews.blogspot.com.

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Scottish games photo by Grace Beahm/the post and courier; Birds of prey, LEEP, and Prenatal yoga photos by shannon brigham; Louie’s kids photo by David Quick/the post and courier .

Daily Adventures *september*

The most comprehensive calendar of events, activities and classes in the Lowcountry

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Page 46

JUST FOR KIDS!

Page 51

PARENTS AND FAMILY

PAGE 57

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES online oh baby! online

How to submit your event or activity

Listings are included at the discretion of the editors. Events, classes and activities that are open to the public and are sponsored by nonprofit organizations, or those that are free, are listed at no charge on a space-available basis.

Submissions should be e-mailed to calendar@lowcountryparent.com no later than the first of the month preceding the event.

Submissions should include time, date, location, cost and contact information, as well as a brief description of the event or activity.

For more information, e-mail calendar@lowcountryparent.com.

SCOTTISH GAMES are at Boone Hall Plantation on Saturday, Sept. 19. Visit www.boonehallplantation.com

just for kids THE CENTER FOR BIRDS OF PREY is open for public tours 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Thursday–Saturday. Guided walking tours are at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. and flight demonstrations are at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Admission is $12 each for adults, $10 each for ages 6–18 and free for children age 6 and younger. Visit www.thecenter forbirdsofprey.org.

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pay it forward

parents and family LOUIE’S KIDS’ FIT CLUB is a four-month program designed to fight childhood obesity. The program is implemented through Charleston-area schools.

For details, visit www.louieskids.org or call 343-5746.

LEEP, Lowcountry Environmental Education Programs, has a variety of volunteer needs. Visit www.scleep.org for details.

Oh BABY! PRENATAL YOGA CLASSES are 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesdays at East Cooper Regional Medical Center. No experience is necessary. Classes are open to all trimesters. The cost is $14 each per class, with monthly pass discounts available.

Call Amy Kassis at 324-5918.

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 45

Day-by-Day Calendar Moody. Donations will be accepted for the club’s scholarship fund. Scholarships are awarded annually in the spring to local youths selected through audition. For information call Nancy Shows at 873-0827.

previous climbing/belaying experience. Pre-registration not required. A chaperone is required for ages 15 and younger. Pay before 5 p.m. Cost is $10 for Charleston County residents and $12 for nonresidents. Equipment not included in climbing fee. Bring headlamp/flashlight. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.

Friday, Sept. 4 Saturday, Sept. 5

Photo provided

Day-by-Day Calendar The Lowcountry’s most comprehensive calendar of events Wednesday, Sept. 2 AN EARLY MORNING BIRD WALK is 8:30 a.m.–noon at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Walk through many distinct habitats and view and discuss a variety of birds, butterflies and other organisms. Pre-registration is encouraged, but walk-in registrations are welcome. Cost is $5. Call 889-8898.

A MOONLIGHT MIXER is 7–11 p.m. at Folly Beach Fishing Pier.

Local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around. Beverages, food and snacks will be available for purchase. Advance tickets are $8 for Charleston County residents and $10 for nonresidents and at the door. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.

A LECTURE about children and chiropractic sponsored by the Foundation for Wellness Professionals is at Rolly Pollies on Dorchester Road at 5:30 p.m. Reservations required. Call 614-7126.

THE CHARLESTON RIVERDOGS VS. SAVANNAH, GA. – See Sept. 3. Game time 7:05 p.m.

MOONLIGHT WALL CLIMB: September Full Moon Climb for ages 4 and older is 7–10 p.m. at the James Island County Park Climbing Wall. There will be music and lots of fun. Must have

THE CHARLESTON RIVERDOGS VS. SAVANNAH, GA. – See Sept. 3. Game time is 7:05 p.m.

A PARENT AND CHILD CANOE/KAYAK SAMPLER is 9 a.m.– noon at James Island County Park. Teaches basic strokes and equipment. Families will paddle a variety of kayaks and canoes. For children ages 8–16 and their parents. Pre-registration required. Cost is $10 for Charleston County residents and $12 for nonresidents. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.

A SELF-GUIDED CANOE TOUR is 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Paddle historic rice fields while learning about wildlife activity and the unique history of the site. A chaperone is required for ages 15 and younger. Cost is $10 per canoe. For more information call 889-8898.

EARLY MORNING BIRD WALK – See Sept. 2.

KID TOURS: NATIVE AMERICAN ARTISTRY is at 3:30 p.m. at The Charleston Museum. Explore the early cultures of North America by investigating artifacts of various native tribes.

Includes a craft project or activity. Free with admission for museum members and children younger than 3. Otherwise cost is $10 per adult, $5 per child. Call 722-2996 or visit www. charlestonmuseum.org.

Thursday, Sept. 3 SUNSET/MOONRISE PADDLE is from 6 to 8:15 p.m. at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Watch the sun slip below the trees of Caw Caw Swamp and watch the moonrise over Tea Farm Creek. For ages 9 and up. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and younger. Pre-registration required. Cost is $15 for Charleston County residents and $18 for nonresidents. For more information call 889-8898.

THE CHARLESTON RIVERDOGS VS. SAVANNAH, GA. baseball game is 7:05 p.m. at Joe Riley Park. Call 577-3647 or visit www. riverdogs.com.

THE SUMMERVILLE MUSIC CLUB opens its season at 7 p.m. at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 206 Central Ave. in Summerville.

Featuring Dan Dukes, Michael Murray, John Gamble and Gus 46 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

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Day-by-Day Calendar COLONIAL RICE PLANTATION is 10 a.m.–12 p.m. at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Ages 9 and older investigate daily life and practices on a South Carolina rice plantation in the colonial era.

A registered and paid chaperone is required for ages 15 and younger. Pre-registration required. Cost is $7 for Charleston County residents and $9 for nonresidents. For more information call 889-8898.

SELF-GUIDED CANOE TOUR – See Sept 5.

Monday, Sept. 7 LABOR DAY – Public schools closed.

THE CHARLESTON RIVERDOGS VS. SAVANNAH, GA. – See Sept. 3. Game time is 6:05 p.m.

INTRODUCTION TO CLIMBING: INTRODUCTION TO BELAYING is 1–4 p.m. at James Island County Park. Learn the fundamentals of belaying including knots, harnesses and belaying, as well as climbing. Participants will be prepared to take a belay test upon their next visit to the Climbing Wall.

Pre-registration required. For ages 14 and older. Cost is $20 for Charleston County residents and $24 for nonresidents. Call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit www.ccprc.com.

HOME SCHOOL HISTORY DAY – Egyptian Depictions is 10–11 a.m. at the Charleston Museum. Explore the collection of Egyptian artifacts. Includes a field trip class, a museum visit and an activity. Reservations required. Free with admission. Call 7222996 or visit www.charlestonmuseum.org.

Sunday, Sept. 6

Wednesday, Sept. 9

THE CHARLESTON BATTERY VS. MINNESOTA soccer match is at 6 p.m. at Blackbaud Stadium. Call 971-4625 or visit www. charlestonbattery.com.

AFTER-SCHOOL ADVENTURES: An after-school paddle for ages 6–12 is 3:30–6 p.m. at Palmetto Islands County Park.

Review and learn basic canoe and kayak strokes, then play fun paddling games. Pre-registration required. Cost is $10 Charleston County residents and $12 for nonresidents. Call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit www.ccprc.com.

THE CHARLESTON RIVERDOGS VS. SAVANNAH, GA. – See Sept. 3. Game time is 5:05 p.m.

www.lowcountryparent.com

Tuesday, Sept. 8

EARLY MORNING BIRD WALK – See Sept. 2.

Friday, Sept. 11 FAMILY FUN NIGHT is 6:30–8:30 p.m. at the R.L. Jones Center in Mount Pleasant. Bring friends and family for a night of free swimming, fun and games. Families are invited to unwind in the pool after a week of school and work. Floats and water toys welcome. Contact Jeff Garrard at 884-2528 or visit www. townofmountpleasant.com.

AFTER-SCHOOL ADVENTURES – See Sept. 9.

THE CHARLESTON BATTERY VS. MIAMI soccer match is at 8 p.m. at Blackbaud Stadium. Call 971-4625 or visit www. charlestonbattery.com.

BEGINNER SAILING: Basic Sailing Level I is 5:30–8 p.m. at CCPRC Headquarters. Learn basic nomenclature and rigging/derigging skills as well as safety skills such as righting a capsized boat. Second portion of class is Sunday, Sept. 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ages 16 and up will learn the basics of tacking and jibing. Students will learn how to safely leave and return to the dock and be able to sail independently. Pre-registration required. Call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit www.ccprc.com.

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 47

Day-by-Day Calendar Saturday, Sept. 12 FOOTBALL JAMBOREE, a kickoff tournament for Mount Pleasant Recreation Department’s fall 2009 youth football teams. is at 9 a.m. at Wando High School Football Stadium in Mount Pleasant. Contact Jay Rhodes at 856-2196 or visit www.town ofmountpleasant.com.

CONCERT ON THE COOPER is 7:30–11 p.m. at the new Mount Pleasant pier, featuring Super Deluxe. Tickets are $8. Call 7954FUN (4386) or visit www.ccprc.com.

YOUNG CLIMBER SERIES: The CCPRC Climbing Club is 9–10:30 a.m. at James Island County Park. Get hands-on experience with climbing in a controlled environment and gain skills that transfer to climbing and real life. This eight-week course is for ages 8–17. Cost is $70 for Charleston County residents and $84 for nonresidents and Call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit www. ccprc.com.

MAD SCIENCE SATURDAY – Super Structures is 10 a.m.–noon at the Charleston Museum. Super Structures will give children insight into the world of architects and engineers. Includes presentations and craft projects for children of all ages. Free with admission. Call 722-2996 or visit www.charleston museum.org.

rice fields while learning about wildlife activity and the unique history of the site. A chaperone is required for ages 15 and younger. Cost is $12 for Charleston County residents and $15 for nonresidents. For more information call 889-8898.

crafts presented by local artisans. Businesses stay open late.

Free. For more information visit www.summervilledream.org.

PALMETTO INVITATIONAL BAND CLASSIC starts at 3 p.m. at Johnson Hagood Stadium. Burke High School and other high school marching bands are showcased in an exciting display of music and dance. Performances include high-stepping marching bands from historically black colleges and South Carolina State University Marching 101 from Orangeburg. Cost is $12 in advance, $15 at the gate. Children under 3 and younger are free. For more information call 724-7305 or visit www. mojafestival.com.

MOUNT PLEASANT FALL INVITATIONAL USSSA TOURNAMENT is at Park West Recreation Complex, R.L. Jones Center and Wando South. This USSSA-sanctioned baseball tournament is hosted by the Mount Pleasant Diamond Warriors and is open to age groups 10U-18U. To register or for more information visit www.diamondwarriors.org or call Ryan Johnson at 884-2528.

Wednesday, Sept. 16 EARLY DISMISSAL for Berkeley and Charleston County School districts.

Thursday, Sept. 17 THIRD THURSDAYS in Downtown Summerville is 5–8 p.m. featuring The Cobblestone Jazz Trio. An art walk and arts and

Friday, Sept. 18

FAMILY FUN NIGHT is 7–8:30 p.m. at the Park West Pool in Mount Pleasant. Bring family and friends for a night of swimming fun and games. Floats and water toys are welcome, but water wings are not allowed. Contact the Park West Pool at 856-2536 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

SECULAR HUMANISTS PLAYGROUP is at Wannamaker Park at 10 a.m. Enjoy the company of other non-religious moms and dads while the kids play. For more information, visit www. lowcountryhumanists.org or contact SecularCharleston Mom@gmail.com.

A PUBLIC DISABILITY AWARENESS CONFERENCE is 9 a.m.–noon at Seacoast Church, 750 Long Point Road. Offered in partnership with nonprofit Joni and Friends International Disability Center. Families with a special needs child or adult, individuals interested in volunteering with a special needs ministry, as well as local church leaders concerned with meeting the needs of these special families within their own congregations are welcome. Cost is $10 each and includes breakfast and materials. For more information or to register online, visit www.seacoast.org and click on Mount Pleasant or visit www.joniandfriends.org.

Sunday, Sept. 13 GRANDPARENTS DAY is today. Visit www.grandparents-day. com for history, facts and suggested activities.

TAKE YOUR DOG to Whirlin’ Waters from noon to 6 p.m. Large dogs can enjoy the wave pool and smaller dogs can take a dip in Otter Bay. Swimming areas only open for dogs. Owners will not be allowed in the water. Bring proof of dog’s current vaccinations. Cost is $8 for Charleston County residents and $10 for nonresidents. Call 795-4FUN (4386) for more information.

HERITAGE TO HABITAT CANOE TOUR is 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m. at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Ages 9 and up will paddle historic 48 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

www.lowcountryparent.com

Day-by-Day Calendar Saturday, Sept. 19 MOUNT PLEASANT HALF RUBBER WORLD SERIES is at 9 a.m. at Park West Recreation Complex, Mount Pleasant.

Captains’ meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. Teams must consist of 3–4 players, ages 16 and older. Cost is $20 per person. Includes complimentary T-shirt. Register at any MPRD facility. Call Scott Koth at 884-2528 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

SCOTTISH GAMES are at Boone Hall Plantation. Music from more than 25 bagpipe bands echoes through the plantation’s large oaks and across scenic marshes. There are children’s games, Highland dancing, Scottish country dancing and fiddling, and Celtic rock bands dressed in kilts. The Border Collie Demo features some of the most beautiful dogs in the world.

Visit www.boonehallplantation.com.

Sunday, Sept. 20 MOUNT PLEASANT FALL INVITATIONAL USSSA TOURNAMENT – See Sept. 18.

SHAGGING ON THE COOPER is 7:30–11 p.m. at the new Mount Pleasant Pier. Dance the night away under the stars while the Coppertones perform. Tickets are $8. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.

REGGAE CONCERT SERIES starts at 7:30 p.m. at Wannamaker County Park featuring Ever-G. Food, beverage and souvenirs will be available for purchase. Admission is $8, free for children 12 and younger and Gold Pass holders. Call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit www.ccprc.com.

YOUNG CLIMBER SERIES – See Sept. 12.

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JURIED ART EXHIBITION: Opening Reception is 5:30–7 p.m. at the Avery Research Center, 125 Bull St. Exhibit will be open daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m., through Oct. 30. Works in all media by artists from the Southeastern Region will be exhibited. Cash awards are given for first, second and third place. Admission is free. For more information call 724-7305.

MOUNT PLEASANT FALL INVITATIONAL USSSA TOURNAMENT – See Sept. 18

Monday, Sept. 21 THE 2009 STATEWIDE AFTER SCHOOL CONVENTION is at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St.

in Columbia. More than 700 after-school administrators and providers will address issues that enhance the quality of afterschool programs in our state. Keynote speaker is Judge Glenda Hatchett. Cost ranges from $85 to $145 per person. For information call 866-237-5454 or visit www.scafterschool.com.

Tuesday, Sept. 22 THE 2009 STATEWIDE AFTER SCHOOL CONVENTION – See Sept. 21.

Thursday, Sept. 24 MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL: A Celebration of African-American and Caribbean Arts starts today. Events include visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theater, children’s activities and more. MOJA also includes an active and busy educational outreach component of workshops in the public schools and senior outreach in senior citizen homes. Most events are free and others range from $5–$35.

Visit www.mojafestival.com for more information.

OPENING RECEPTION FOR INVITATIONAL ART EXHIBITS is from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Charleston Museum. Works by the 2009

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 49

Day-by-Day Calendar MOJA poster artist and regional visual artists will be exhibited in several venues in downtown Charleston. Admission is free.

Call 722-2996 or visit www.charlestonmuseum.org.

tom House. Participants include students from many Charleston County schools, African drummers and dancers, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and members of civic organizations. Free. For more information call 724-7305 or visit www.mojafestival.com.

Friday, Sept. 25 Saturday, Sept. 26 A MOONLIGHT MIXER is 7–11 p.m. at Folly Beach Fishing Pier.

Local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around. Beverages, food and snacks will be available for purchase. Advance tickets are $8 for Charleston County residents and $10 for nonresidents and at the door. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.

MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL – See Sept. 24.

REGGAE BLOCK DANCE is 7–11 p.m. behind the U.S. Custom House, featuring live reggae music, African drummers and dancers, ethnic foods and international crafts. Approximately 18,000 residents and tourists take part in the festivities. Free. For more information call 724-7305 or visit www.mojafestival.com.

A CARIBBEAN STREET PARADE starts at 6 p.m. at Marion Square, King and Calhoun streets, and ends behind the U.S. Cus-

THE FINAL PIER FISHING TOURNAMENT OF THE SUMMER is 6 a.m.–4 p.m. at Folly Beach Fishing Pier for ages 3 and up. Prizes for the largest catch in the King Mackerel category and the three largest catches in the Big Fish category will be awarded at 4:15 p.m. For more information, call the Folly Beach Fishing Pier at 588-3474. Cost is $9 for Charleston County residents, $12 for nonresidents, and $7 for ages 3–12. Call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit www.ccprc.com.

enter is Sept. 24. To register, call the Charleston Tennis Center at 766-7401.

HERITAGE DAY WITH YOUTH and a Health and Wellness Fair is 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. at Hampton Park, featuring live entertainment, an African vendor market with ethnic foods, international crafts, storytelling, panel discussions and on-site health screenings for men, women and youth. Pre-registration required for mammograms. Swahili workshops and from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. For more information call 724-7305 or visit www. mojafestival.com.

AN EVENING OF JAZZ UNDER THE STARS is 7:30–10:30 p.m. at The Cistern. Featuring national Lalah Hathaway, Charlton Singleton Group and Violinist Daniel Davis. Cost is $25. For more information call 724-7305 or visit www.mojafestival.com.

MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL – See Sept. 24.

Sunday, Sept. 27 ONE-DAY JUNIOR TENNIS TOURNAMENT is 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. at Charleston Tennis Center, 19 Farmfield Ave., West Ashley.

This one-day tournament showcases youth from the Inner-City Youth Tennis Program and other area programs. Trophies, T-shirts and refreshments offered. Entry fee is $8. Deadline to

FOLLY BEACH CHALLENGE is 8–10 a.m. at Folly Beach County Park. This off-road triathlon will feature paddling, biking and running. Participants will paddle three miles, bike approximately 8.5 miles on Folly Beach and run three miles. Online registration ends Sept. 23. Cost for single participants is $36 Charleston County residents and $45 for nonresidents. Cost for teams of three is $76 for Charleston County residents and $95 for nonresidents. Call 795-4386.

MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL – See Sept. 24.

“A BACK HOME GOSPEL HOUR” is at 4 p.m. at Citadel Square Baptist Church, 328 Meeting St. Cost is $10. Call 724-7305.

CLASSICAL ENCOUNTER is 2–3 p.m. at The City Gallery at Waterfront Park, 34 Priloeau St. Cellist Kenneth Law, professor of cello at Converse College, performs works by Debussy, Piazzolla, and other classical composers accompanied by Douglas Weeks on piano. Cost is $10. Call 724-7305.

Monday, Sept. 28 THE COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON GOSPEL CHOIR: “Singing My Song” is 8-9 p.m. at Mother Emanuel AME Church, 110 Calhoun St. A celebration of tradition gospel, spirituals, hymns and contemporary gospel music. Special tribute to the music of gospel artist and pioneer Walter Hawkins. Donations accepted.

Call 724-7305.

MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL – See Sept. 24.

Tuesday, Sept. 29 MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL – See Sept. 24.

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Day-by-Day Calendar Wednesday, Sept. 30 MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL – See Sept. 24.

A JAZZ CRUISE is 8–10 p.m. Boarding begins at 7:30 p.m. at Fountain Walk, behind the S.C. Aquarium. Featuring Gaylan, “The Sultry Songstress,” aboard the Spirit of Charleston. Cost is $15. To order tickets call TicketMaster at 800-745-3000. For more information call 724-7305.

All month long “DOG DAYS” at Drayton Hall is through Sept. 30. Dogs are welcome, and $4 of every full-price adult admission will benefit Pet Helpers Rescue and Adoption Shelter in Charleston. Download a “Dog Days” coupon from www.draytonhall.org or www. pethelpers.org.

“ANCESTRY & INNOVATION” is through Oct. 11 at the Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. The traveling Smithsonian exhibit includes quilts, paintings, sculpture and other works of art by contemporary African-American artists. Call 722-2706 or visit www.gibbesmuseum.org.

Just for Kids

photo by Shannon Brigham

JUST FOR KIDS A story, a song or a play?

What shall we do today?

BUILD IT! REGISTER EARLY FOR KIDS’ WORKSHOPS at all locations of The Home Depot. Workshops and materials are designed for ages 5–12. Workshops are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon the first Saturday of the month. Classes are free, but spaces are limited. www.lowcountryparent.com

Lowcountry Parent, September 2009 | 51

Just for Kids Each participant receives a free apron and take-home project.

Contact individual stores for details.

BUILD AND GROW free workshops are at Lowe’s stores. Classes are recommended for children in grades 2–5. Each participant receives a free apron, certificate and take-home project. Contact individual Lowe’s stores for details.

CREATE A CRAFT during Kids Club 10 a.m.–noon Saturdays at Michaels arts and crafts store at Northwoods Market Place in North Charleston. This class is for ages 5–12. There is a $2 charge for materials. Call 574-9233 for details.

GENERAL INTEREST BROWNIE TRY-IT BADGE WORKSHOP: ANIMALS is 9:30 a.m.–noon Sept. 26 at Dill Sanctuary. Learn how different animals communicate, observe them their habitat and learn to move like an animal. Cost is $11 per scout, and $8 for adults. Call 552-9910 to make reservations.

A SOCK HOP for grades 4–5 is 5:30–8 p.m. Sept. 25 at Town Hall Gym, Mount Pleasant. DJ will provide music. The Mount Pleasant Recreation Department staff will chaperone. Cost is

52 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

$6 each. Register early – this event will sell out in advance.

Contact Mark Friedrich at 856-2196 or visit www.townof mountpleasant.com.

EDUCATION OUTREACH PROGRAMS are offered through Boone Hall Plantation. For details on outreach programs and field trips, call 884-4371, ext. 221, or visit www.boonehall plantation.com.

THE CENTER FOR BIRDS OF PREY is open for public tours 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Thursday–Saturday. Guided walking tours are at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. and flight demonstrations are at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Admission is $12 each for adults, $10 each for ages 6–18 and free for children age 6 and younger. Visit www.thecenterforbirdsofprey.org.

TEACHERS RECEIVE FREE ADMISSION to Drayton Hall through Labor Day. For for information, visit www.drayton hall.org.

FAMILY NIGHT is 5–8 p.m. each Tuesday at Citadel Mall and Northwoods Mall. Entertainers such as balloon artists and face painters are on hand and children eat free with the purchase of a regular adult meal at participating restaurants.

LITTLE CHEFS is at 3:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Children have a snack and learn healthy eating habits. Call 853-8962 or visit www.explore cml.org.

SING-A-LONGS are Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Share some of your favorites and learn some new tunes. Call 853-8962 or visit www.explore cml.org.

COOKY CONCOCTIONS COOKING CLASS is Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Children ages 4–10 make irresistible treats. Cost is $5 per child with admission or a CML Membership Card. To register, contact Margaret Crane, program coordinator, at 853-8962, ext. 222, or e-mail Margaret@explorecml.org.

TODDLER TIME AND KINDER ART is every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. This class focuses on the gross motor skills, language skills and social skills of toddlers. Monthly themes include colors, animals, shapes and transportation. Cost is $5 with admission. Contact Margaret, program coordinator, at 853-8962 ext. 222 or Margaret@ explorecml.org.

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Just for Kids GARDEN ADVENTURE in the Kid Gardens is Fridays at 10:15 a.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Free with admission. Call 853-8962 or visit www.explorecml.org.

SPECTACULARLY SILLY PLAY TIME is at 3 p.m. Fridays at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, featuring dancing, games and dress-up. Free with admission. Call 853-8962 or visit www.explorecml.org.

GROOVY GAMES are Sundays at 3 p.m. this month at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry with relay races, balloon tossing, hula hooping and more. Free with admission. Call 8538962 or visit www.explorecml.org.

LET’S PERFORM for ages 4–8 is Sept. 22 at 4 p.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Students explore the world of modern dance, play the role of an orchestra’s maestro, learn the rhythms of piano, and discover the art of the violin.

Students also receive a free ticket for the corresponding CCA performance and parents receive discounted rates. Cost is $5 per session or $25 for six sessions, and includes admission to CML at 3 p.m. on the day of the program. Registration required. Contact Margaret Crane, program coordinator at 853-8962, ext. 222 or Margaret@explorecml.org.

www.lowcountryparent.com

FREE FACE PAINTING is at 4 p.m. Sept. 22–25 at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, which turns 6 this month. Stop by and have something special painted on your face each day during its Birthday Week. Call 853-8962 or visit www.explorecml. org.

FAMILY FUN NIGHT: PIRATE STYLE is Sept. 17. The museum remains open until 7 p.m. Come dressed in your pirate best, and practice your pirate talk and play games and have pirate activities aboard the CML pirate ship, the “Charrrleston Treaure!” Call 853-8962 or visit www.explorecml.org.

FREE FRIDAY FAMILY FEST is Sept. 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Hosted by The Junior League of Charleston. Enjoy the museum, arts and crafts, balloon animals, clowns and more. Free admission to the museum, dinner from Chick-fil-A. The first 150 families also receive a free fall-themed book and a complimentary pass for a return visit to the museum. Call 853-8962 or visit www. explorecml.org.

KIDS’ NIGHT OUT for ages 3–10 is 5:30–10 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights at the MUSC Wellness Center. The program includes games, pizza, sports, swimming and more. For more

information and to register, call 792-0767.

CANNON STREET YMCA offers the YMCA Princess Program for girls ages 5–12 and their fathers. The program includes a wide variety of activities including crafts, camping, outings and more. Call 577-9622.

PENGUIN PLANET is at the S.C. Aquarium. The aquarium is open 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Saturday and noon–5 p.m. Sunday. The last ticket is sold at 4 p.m. daily. Admission is $17 each for adults, $16 each for seniors ages 62 and older and $10 each for children ages 2–11. Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Military, senior, college and group discounts are available.

Call 577-3474 or visit www.scaquarium.org.

SEA TURTLE HOSPITAL TOURS are 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the S.C. Aquarium. Behind-thescenes-tours offer visitors a look at the efforts of the staff as it cares for sick and injured turtles through the Sea Turtle Rescue Program. Reservations recommended. Cost is $5 for ages 2–11 and $10 for adults in addition to regular admission. Call 577FISH (3474).

“WELCOME FALL” PARENT-TOT PICNIC for ages 6 and younger

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Just for Kids is 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Sept 9 at Alhambra Park, Mount Pleasant.

Grab your picnic baskets and blankets and head to the park for a free fun-filled picnic. Children will enjoy a jump castle and a unique craft project. Bring picnic lunch and blankets. Cups and drinks provided. Rain date is Sept. 16. Contact Anne Selner at 884-2528 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

SPORTS AND FITNESS FREE SKATEBOARDING DAY is Sept. 12 at Mount Pleasant Skatepark, Mount Pleasant (behind R.L. Jones Center). Try MPRD’s SkateLite Pro Ramps for free. Participants must bring their own skateboard and safety equipment (helmet, knee pads and elbow pads). All skatepark rules and regulations apply. Participants must have a current, signed waiver on file.

Contact Mark Friedrich at 856-2196 for hours or visit www. townofmountpleasant.com.

LOCAL NFL PEPSI PUNT, PASS & KICK COMPETITION is at 10 a.m. Sept. 19 at MPRD Park West Recreation Complex, Mount Pleasant. Free. This is a national skills competition for boys and girls ages 8–15 to compete against each other in punting, passing and kicking. For registration information, call Jay Rhodes at 856-2196 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

THE CHARLESTON AND SUMMERVILLE MIRACLE LEAGUES give children and adults with physical and mental challenges the opportunity to participate in organized sports. Call 7632513 or visit www.charlestonmiracleleague.org.

TANG SOO DO KARATE for all ages is at St. Julian Devine Community Center. Call 724-7350.

UNIFIED SPORTS THERAPEUTIC RECREATION combines athletes with and without disabilities on a team for meaningful training and competition. Teams include cheer, basketball, swim and tennis. The cost is $25 each. Discounts and scholarships are available. Call 769-8284.

STORY TIME is 10:30–11:30 a.m. the third Thursday of each month at Community Christian Store in Summerville. To register, call 871-1225.

WALK, RUN, OR ROLL is at 8 a.m. Saturdays at Hampton Park.

The park is closed to traffic to allow participants to skate, run, bicycle or walk. This is a free event. Call 965-4002.

GYMNASTICS CLASSES for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels are at the Summerville Family YMCA. Fees apply.

Call 821-2727.

LITTLE DOJO KARATE for ages 4 and older is at the Arthur Christopher City Gym. Call 460-7082 or 813-2720.

TABLE TENNIS CLASSES for beginners and juniors are at the Arthur Christopher City Gym. Fees apply. Call 724-7338.

STORY TIME and BOOKS

GRANDPARENT CIRCLE for grandparents and toddlers is at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Call 853-8962 or visit www.explorecml.org.

THE TEEN ADVISORY BOARD meets at the Berkeley County Library. Call 719-4223 or visit www.berkeley.lib.sc.us.

STORY TIME is at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays at Barnes & Noble Booksellers West Ashley. Call 556-6561.

QUALITY TIMES for ages 2–8 are 2:30–5:30 p.m. Fridays at St. Paul’s Library. The event includes reading and crafts for parents and children. Call 889-3300.

STORY TIME is at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Goose Creek

SOCCER PLAYER/COACH CLINIC is at noon Sept. 26 at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department. Coaches will learn training techniques for the physical, technical, tactical and psychological aspects of the game. Players will develop proper techniques and perfect skills needed to be successful. Free. Call 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net.

FRIDAY NIGHT HOOPS is 6–8 p.m. Sept. 11 and 25 at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department. Coed, ages 7–12. Kids will learn skills needed to play basketball. Cost is $10 each. Call 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net.

GYMNASTICS for ages 3 and older starts at 3:30 Sept. 8 at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department. Cost is $70 for residents and $75 for nonresidents. Visit www.iop.net or call 843-8868294 for more information.

TENNIS CLASSES are offered at the Charleston Tennis Center (769-8258) and the Maybank Tennis Center (406-8814). Visit www.charlestoncity.info.

A VARIETY OF SPORTS PROGRAMS for youth are at the MUSC Wellness Center. Options include capoeira, squash, tennis and more. For details, call 792-0767 or e-mail kids@musc.edu.

YOGA CLASSES for children are at the MUSC Wellness Center.

For details, call 792-0767 or e-mail kids@musc.edu.

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Just for Kids Library. Call 572-1376.

STORY TIME is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Hanahan Library. Call 747-5400.

STORY TIME is at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Moncks Corner Library. Call 747-5400.

WEE READS STORY TIME for age 2 and younger is offered at Charleston County Public Library branches. For details, call 805-6930 or visit www.ccpl.org.

DANGEROUS BOOK CLUB is from 3:30–4:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Charleston County Main Library. Explore something new every week from knot-tying to stargazing from “The Dangerous Book for Boys.” Call 805-6930.

DANGEROUS BOYS CLUB is at 7:30 p.m. on the first Friday of each month at Barnes & Noble in Mount Pleasant. Community leaders will host meetings based on activities from the bestselling book “The Dangerous Book for Boys,” by brothers Conn and Hal Iggulden. Call 216-9756.

CHRISTOPHER’S READING ROOM is 4–4:30 p.m. Thursdays

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at John’s Island Library for grades 6–12. Earn one John’s Island Library dollar for each session. Call 559-1945.

CHOPSTICKS is 3–5 p.m. Fridays at the Charleston County Main Library for all ages. Light classical music and favorite children’s songs while kids color with friends. Call 805-6930.

TIME FOR TWOS STORY TIME for ages 2–3 with an adult is offered at Charleston County Public Library branches. For details, call 805-6930 or visit www.ccpl.org.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME for ages 3–6 is offered at Charleston County Public Library branches. For details, call 805-6930 or visit www.ccpl.org.

FAMILY STORY TIME for all ages is offered at the Charleston County Main Library. For details, call 805-6930 or visit www. ccpl.org.

Recreation Department 10 a.m.–noon the first and third Fridays of each month.

SWIMMING SPLASH ZONE, Whirlin’ Waters and Splash Island are open weekends through Labor Day. Visit www.ccprc.com.

SWIM CLUB meets Monday–Thursday afternoons at the MUSC Wellness Center. Emphasis is on stroke mechanics and endurance training. For details, call 792-0767 or e-mail kids@ musc.edu.

SWIM LESSONS for ages 6 months and older start Sept. 8 at the MUSC Wellness Center. For details, call 792-0767 or e-mail kids@musc.edu.

READ ME A STORY BOOK CLUB for ages 4–5 meets Fridays at Moultrie Park Playground. The event includes stories, refreshments and crafts. The cost is $5 per child. Call 724-7327.

THE MOUNT PLEASANT SHARKS, a noncompetitive swim team for middle and high school students, is at the R. L. Jones Center. The team’s season is January–May and September–November. For details, call 884-2528 or visit www. townofmountpleasant.com.

CHARLESTON COUNTY BOOKMOBILE is at the Isle of Palms

SWIM LESSONS for ages 6 months–adult are at the Sum-

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Just for Kids merville Family YMCA. Call 871-9622, ext. 100, for class times and fees.

MOUNT PLEASANT RECREATION DEPARTMENT POOLS are located at the R.L. Jones Center on Egypt Road and Park West Recreation Complex. Call the Jones Center at 884-2528 or Park West at 856-2536 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

ST. ANDREW’S PARKS AND PLAYGROUND offers swim lessons.

Call 763-3850 or e-mail swim@standrewsparks.com.

SWIM LESSONS for ages 6 months and older are at W. L. Stephens Aquatic Center (769-8261) and MLK Pool (724-7346). Visit www.charlestoncity.info/recreation.

THEATER AND ARTS KARYN’S ART TIME is 4:30–6 p.m. Sept. 17 at the G.M. Darby Building. Children ages 6-9 have fun while learning, creating art projects, enjoying stories, games and more. Cost is $20 for Mount Pleasant residents and $27 for nonresidents. Register in advance.

Contact Florine Russell at 849-2061 or visit www.townofmount pleasant.com.

at Creative Spark. Curriculum consists of a comprehensive set of age-appropriate, outcome-based guidelines to provide the highest-quality training to dance students of all ages and skill levels.

Classes are for ages 3 to 10. Call Angela Agudo at 818-8917 or visit www.creativespark.org.

PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS in piano, guitar, voice, violin and bass for all ages are at Creative Spark. Cost is $26 per half hour. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

BROADWAY KIDS, a beginning musical theater class for children ages 6–9, is Mondays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 14–Dec. 14.

Cost is $165 plus costume charges. Call 881-3780 or visit www. creativespark.org.

BROADWAY PERFORMING TROUPE, an intermediate musical theater class for ages 9 and older, is 5:30–6:30 p.m. Mondays from Sept. 14 through May 2010. Tuition is four payments of $120 plus costume charges. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creative spark.org.

CHILDBLOOM GUITAR is Saturday mornings at Creative Spark for ages 5–12. Students are grouped by age and parents attend the lessons. For details, call instructor Tom Noren at 514-3405.

SPARKS ON STAGE is Wednesdays 4:30–5:30 p.m. starting Sept.

2 at Creative Spark. Teaches children 8–12 vocal and acting technique, confidence and storytelling skills. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

CHARLESTON AREA YOUTH CONCERT BAND is being formed in Charleston. Auditions for ages 12–college will be held in September for the fall semester. Tuition is $30 plus a $10 supply fee each month. Band meets Mondays from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. beginning Sept 14. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

LARGE FORMAT PAINTING is Tuesdays 6–7:30 p.m. Sept.

1–Nov. 1 at Trident Academy. Teenage students will complete one 3-by-4-foot oil painting and learn to stretch and prime canvas like a professional artist. Cost is $110, plus $25 for supplies.

Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

TEEN WRITING CLASS is Thursdays 4:30–5:30 p.m. Sept. 3–Oct. 8 at Trident Academy. Explore short fiction, verse, and personal essay in a team environment. Bring a pen/pencil and notebook.

Cost is $95. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

THE CHARLESTON COUNTY SCOTTISH DANCE SOCIETY offers free weekly dance lessons 7:30–9 p.m. Thursdays at the Felix C.

IN THE KNOW is at the Mount Pleasant Regional Library Sept.

15 from 2 to 3 p.m. Stay informed about events and the artistic community in a free series that brings producers, performers and creative folks to you. For more information call 881-3780.

THE GIZMO GUYS, a comedy juggling act emphasizing math and science concepts, is at 10 a.m. Sept. 25 at Creative Spark. Call 8813780 or visit www.creativespark.org for more information.

CREATIVE SPARK SAMPLER for ages 3–5 is Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. through Dec. 3 at Creative Spark. Activities include painting, crafts, dancing and various visiting artists. Cost is $190 plus $25 supplies. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org for more information.

DRUMMING AT TRIDENT ACADEMY is Mondays or Wednesdays 3:45-4:45 p.m. for beginners or experienced students ages 10 and older. Sponsored by Creative Spark. Drums provided or bring your own. Cost is $100. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org for more information.

LEAP INTO LITERATURE is Tuesdays 2–3 p.m. through Oct. 20 at Creative Spark. Children ages 4–6 will learn left to right progression of print; one-to-one correspondence; difference between letters/words; comprehension and critical thinking; and phonetic awareness. Cost is $100 plus $10 for supplies. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org for more information.

ROBERT IVEY’S BALLET FOR KIDS PROGRAM starts Sept. 12 56 | Lowcountry Parent, September 2009

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Just for Kids

Parents and Family BELLY BASICS is Tuesdays 7–8 p.m. for six weeks beginning Sept. 1 at Creative Spark. Prepare to be inspired and amazed at how your hips can move to the drumbeats and ethnic music.

Belts, skirts and veils provided. No dance experience needed.

Cost is $60. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org for more information.

Davis Community Center in North Charleston. Call 797-2275 or e-mail charlestonrscds@gmail.com.

MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC is 4–5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at McMahon Playground, located in Hampton Park in Charleston.

Children ages 12 and younger can learn to play a musical instrument. Call 724-7332.

CREATIVE AND CULTURAL ARTS CLASSES for all ages are at the St. Julian Devine Community Center. Call 724-7350 or visit www. charlestoncity.info/recreation.

BALLET is offered through a partnership between the city of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department and the Charleston Ballet at a satellite school in North Charleston. After-school classes are offered at Windsor Hill Elementary. Call 720-8650 or e-mail culturalarts@northcharleston.org.

BALLET is offered at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department. For details, call 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net.

photo bY David quick/THE POST AND COURIER

BALLET FOR CHILDREN is at the Hazel Parker Playground in Charleston. Call Elizabeth Brackett at 724-7397 or 724-7327 or visit www.charlestoncity.info/recreation.

parents and family Support, learning and sharing the journey

JUST FOR PARENTS ZUMBA is Thursdays 5:45–6:45 p.m. beginning Sept. 3 at Creative Spark. Dance and workout to hot rhythms. ZUMBA is a Latin-inspired dance fitness class that boosts energy, improves strength, tones the body and burns calories. No dance experience needed. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

INTERMEDIATE BELLYDANCING is Tuesdays 8–9 p.m. starting Sept. 1 at Creative Spark. Learn how to incorporate props into your routine. Some belly dance experience necessary. Props provided. Cost is $60 for six-week course. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org for more information.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING is Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Creative Spark. Learn techniques such as wet-on-wet, glazing, washes, dry brush and more. Cost is $120 plus $20 supply fee for six-week course. This class is held at Trident Academy off Whipple Road Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

ADULT WRITING is Thursdays 6–7:30 p.m. starting Sept 3 at Trident Academy. Bring a writing utensil and notebook. Cost is $95 for six-week course. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creative spark.org.

OUT OF THE BOX II with Carol McGill is 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Sept. 11 and 12 at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. Beginners and experienced artists learn painting concepts of value, scale and rhythm. A get-acquainted session will be held at the instructor’s home on Sept. 10. Cost is $250 plus canvas and supplies. Contact Carol McGill at 886-5494 orCM1Spirit@comcast. net. Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

BEGINNER BALLROOM SERIES is 7–8 p.m. through Oct 1 at Creative Spark. Featuring Waltz, Cha Cha, Foxtrot, Rumba, Tango and Swing. Cost is $75 each. Call 881-3780 or visit www. creativespark.org for more information.

WEEKEND DANCES are at 7:30 p.m. most Fridays or Saturdays at Creative Spark. The first hour is a free lesson given by Stanley Ostendorff. Reservations not required. Cost is $10 at the door.

Call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org or www.ball roomplus.com for more information.

SECULAR HUMANISTS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY, a Charlestonbased organization of atheists, agnostics, skeptics and other freethinkers, has monthly family-oriented activities, including playgroups and other kid-friendly events. For more information, visit www.lowcountryhumanists.org or contact Secular CharlestonMom@gmail.com.

NEW HORIZON BAND, a music class for adults, is 8–9:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 14 at Creative Spark. Beginners are welcome.

The cost is $30 plus a $10 supply fee. Call 881-3780 or visit

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Parents and Family www.newhorizonmusic.org.

Thursday of each month October–May at Rutledge Baptist Church. Call the church office at 556-6802.

TRI-COUNTY MOMS GROUP includes many activities for moms with at least one preschool-age child, including crafts, park play, game night, family activities and more. Join at www. moms.meetup.com/1194.

CHARLESTON AREA MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month in classroom 2 at St. Francis Hospital. Call 875-0167 or visit www.camom.org.

RIVERBLUFF MOPS meets 9–11 a.m. the first and third Fridays of each month at Riverbluff Church off Dorchester Road. MOPS is for mothers expecting for the first time and those with children through kindergarten. Child care is provided. Contact Tonya Wolfe at 303-1070 or tandt4@comcast.net.

THE MOMS CLUB OF CHARLESTON offers support and activities for moms in the West Ashley, James Island and Johns Island areas. Activities include playgroups, outings and Mom’s Night Out. Contact Laurie Osbon at 762-9112 or lcosbon@ yahoo.com.

MOPS meets 9:30–11:30 a.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at Cooper River Church, 1059 Crawford St., North Charleston. The cost is $5 per meeting and child care is provided. Call 747-7389 or visit www.orgsites.com/sc/ cooperrivermops.

SUMMERVILLE MOMS CLUB meets regularly for playgroups, park visits, museum trips and more. Call Michele at 364-5755 or visit www.summervillemoms.com.

THE OLD FORT BAPTIST CHURCH MOPS group meets at 9:30 a.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. All mothers of preschoolers are welcome. Child care is provided. Call Heather Hansen at 873-2283.

WEST ASHLEY MOPS meets 9:30–11:30 a.m. the second

MOMS CLUB OF SUMMERVILLE NORTH meets at 9:30 a.m. the last Wednesday of each month at Summerville Presbyterian Church. Contact Nori at nkayse@yahoo.com.

THE MOMS CLUB is an international nonprofit support group for at-home mothers. Activities include playgroups, park days and more. Three Mount Pleasant area chapters are available.

For the Dunes West area (neighborhoods with main entrances

on Highway 41), e-mail momsclub_mtpn@yahoo.com. For the Park West area (neighborhoods north of Highway 41 with main entrances on Highway 17), e-mail joeandamywelch@hotmail. com. For the south (neighborhoods south of Highway 41), email momsclubmp@hotmail.com.

MOTHERS AND MORE OF SUMMERVILLE includes playgroups and mothers’ activities. At-home mothers and those in the workforce are welcome. The group meets at 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at Bethany United Methodist Church.

E-mail summervillemoms@yahoo.com or visit www.summer villemothersandmore.com.

ICAN MOMS, the International Cesarean Awareness Network Charleston Chapter, meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of each month at James Family Chiropractic in Summerville. Visit www.ican-online.org or call 871-4708.

FAMILY PLAYTIME is a natural-minded moms’ group for the whole family. Activities are held in all areas of Greater Charleston. The group includes families with interests in a broad range of natural living topics. Free to join. Visit www. familyplaytime.org, e-mail familyplaytime@cs.com or call 276-2278.

THE CHARLESTON SALSA CLUB offers classes in salsa, bachata and meringue, as well as a variety of events. Call 216-6393 or visit www.charlestonsalsaclub.com.

MOM’S MORNING OUT for ages 5 and younger is 8:30 a.m.– noon weekdays at the Summerville Family YMCA’s Oakbrook facility. For details, call Jill at 821-1028.

SUPPORT AND LEARNING CHANGING FAMILIES is a nonprofit organization offering classes for single parents and stepparents. Some scholarship funding is available. A weekly support and teaching group also meets at St. Andrew’s Church in Mount Pleasant. For details, call 224-1781.

A SUPPORT GROUP for parents of children with selective mutism, a childhood anxiety disorder, is being formed. For more information, e-mail selectivemutism@comcast.net.

CALEB MINISTRIES is a nonprofit Christian outreach ministry for women who have experienced infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion or early infant death. Visit www.caleb ministries.org or call 884-6050.

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Parents and Family the loss of a loved one. Call 797-3463.

THE NATIONAL STUTTERING ASSOCIATION’S Lowcountry Chapter sponsors a support group for kids and teens who stutter and their families. The group meets 6–7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at 725 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. For details, contact Caroline Pittard at carolinepittard@ yahoo.com or 225-8905 or Michelle Polhamus at michelle@ drrhett.com or 813-5227.

LOUIE’S KIDS’ FIT CLUB is a four-month program designed to fight childhood obesity. The program is implemented through Charleston-area schools. For details, visit www.louieskids.org or call 343-5746.

LIFEMANAGEMENT CENTER is a nonprofit organization that helps children and adults develop positive strategies for life and learning. LMC provides consultations, referrals, psychoeducational testing, tutoring, adult coaching, support groups, community outreach and educational programs. Locations are in West Ashley, Summerville, and Walterboro. Visit www. lifemanagement.org or call 852-5705.

HOLISTIC MOMS NETWORK’S Charleston Chapter meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at Lotus Estleene.

This is a nonprofit support and discussion group for families interested in natural/holistic and alternative health and parenting. Visit www.holisticmoms.org or contact Samara at 766-8800 or lotusestleene@gmail.com.

FAMILY CONNECTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA provides free support programs for parents of children with special needs. Call 556-5010 or visit www.familyconnectionsc.org.

MORNING COFFEE, a support group for mothers of children with disabilities, meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at Atlanta Bread in Summerville. Call 556-5010.

AN AUTISM/ASPERGER’S SUMMERVILLE SUPPORT GROUP meets 6:30–8 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the Summerville YMCA. Call Kima Schmidt at 821-9337.

TRIDENT ACADEMY’S PARENT GROUP meets monthly at Trident Academy in Mount Pleasant. The program is free and includes a variety of topics. Call 375-0479.

OUR LADY OF MERCY COMMUNITY OUTREACH CENTER offers a family-centered literacy program. Call 559-4109 or visit www.olmoutreach.org.

PARENTS ANONYMOUS OF SOUTH CAROLINA INC. is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect by strengthening families and empowering comwww.lowcountryparent.com

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Parents and Family munities. Free weekly support group meetings for parents and other primary caregivers of children are offered in the tri-county area. Contact Donna Xenakis at 747-0480, ext. 26, or donnaxenakis@bellsouth.net or visit www.parentsanonymous ofsouthcarolina.org.

THE POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION CHARLESTON SUPPORT GROUP meets 7–8:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of each month at Holy Cross Episcopal Church on Daniel Island.

Contact Helena Bradford at 881-2047 or via e-mail at buzerhel@aol.com or visit www.ppdsupport.org.

THE RUTH RHODEN CRAVEN FOUNDATION FOR POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION AWARENESS provides support and learning for women and their families suffering from PPD. Contact Helena Bradford at 881-2047 or buzerhel@aol.com or visit www.ppdsupport.org.

LUNCH BUDDIES GRIEF SUPPORT, for adults who have lost a loved one, meets 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Tuesdays at the Mourning to Morning Bereavement Center in North Charleston. Participants are welcome to bring their lunch. Call Lisa Anderson at Hospice of Charleston at 529-3100.

ADOPTION

FARMERS MARKETS

ADOPTION SUPPORT, for women who wish to adopt and those who have, is at the Center for Women. The cost for the six-week course is $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Call 7637333 or visit www.c4women.org.

CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturdays in Marion Square.

THE SOUTH CAROLINA HEART GALLERY, a photo exhibit created to help locate adoptive homes for children in foster care, is online at www.scheartgallery.org.

THE SOUTH CAROLINA COUNCIL ON ADOPTABLE CHILDREN offers adoption information to prospective adoptive families.

Visit www.sc-adopt.org.

SPECIAL LINK is a nonprofit adoption information clearinghouse and national linking network for the adoption of hard-toplace children. Visit www.special-link.org or call 864-233-4872.

GREAT WALL CHINA ADOPTION, a nonprofit adoption agency, hosts local workshops. For details visit www.gwca.org.

CHRISTIAN WORLD ADOPTION hosts free seminars for prospective adoptive parents. For details, visit www.cwa.org.

DANIEL ISLAND FARMERS MARKET: 3 p.m.–dusk Thursdays at the Family Circle Tennis Center.

MOUNT PLEASANT FARMERS MARKET: 3 p.m.–dusk Tuesdays at Moultrie Middle School, 645 Coleman Blvd.

SUMMERVILLE FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturdays at W. Doty Ave. between Cedar and Main streets.

NORTH CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET: 1–6 p.m. Thursdays at the Felix C. Davis Community Center on Park Circle.

Want to know more?

Look for more fun activities, volunteer opportunities, parenting classes and more at www.LowcountryParent.com

RECORDING FOR THE BLIND & DYSLEXIC, a nonprofit organization, serves people who cannot effectively read standard print because of a visual impairment, learning disability or other physical disability. Recorded books are provided at all educational levels in a broad range of subjects. For more information, visit www.rfbd.org/ruvc/sc or contact Tina Winchip at 803-603-3217 or twinchip@rfbdruvc.org.

PARENTS WITHOUT PARTNERS is a nonprofit, nonsectarian, educational and social support group for single parents and their children. Custody is not a factor. Call 766-3078 or e-mail jensen.pwp@gmail.com.

I-TO-WE RELATIONSHIP COACHING offers free monthly teleclasses. For reservations and details, visit www.i-to-we.org.

A FATHER-TO-FATHER PROGRAM meets at 7 p.m. Thursdays at St. Peters AME Baptist Church in North Charleston. This is a fatherhood initiative group offering information and services for fathers or expectant fathers. Guest speakers visit weekly.

Call 744-2126 or visit www.fathertofatherproject.org for more information.

GRIEF SUPPORT, for adults who have lost a loved one, is offered quarterly by Hospice of Charleston. A pre-admission interview is required. The program is free but donations are accepted. Call 529-3100 or visit www.hospiceofcharleston.org for more information.

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