Carolina Parent Feb 2018

February 2018 • Free

The Teen Dating Game SPECIAL CAMP SECTION 340 Camp Resources for Triangle Families

Plus, our camp fair returns Feb. 18!

Compete Like a Ninja Discover the benefits of obstacle course camps

What to love and when to worry

Unhealthy Teen Friendships Should parents step in or stay out?

Build Life Skills

Help middle schoolers find their passion

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We love what we do.

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CONTENT ›

Check Out Our Camp Section

F E B R UA R Y

Begins after page 18

12 The Teen Dating Game What to love and when to worry

16 Unhealthy Teen Friendships Should parents step in or stay out?

20 The Top Teen Social Media Apps and Websites Understand how teens interact and communicate in a digital world

Camp Section Begins after page 18 •

Conquering Challenges Like a Ninja Warrior

•

Middle School Camps

•

Day, Track-Out and Residential Camp listings

IN EVERY ISSUE 5 February Online 6 Editor's Note

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FYI 8 Community 10 Education 11 Health CO LU M N S 23 Tech Talk 24 Understanding Kids 25 Father Figuring 26 College Transitions 27 Excursion 35 Faces and Places CALENDAR 29 Our Picks 30 Great Backyard Bird Count 31 Family Dances 31 Daily

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29

16 carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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For the Smile Of a Lifetime...

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121 W. Woodcroft Pkwy Durham, NC 27713

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Robert T. Christensen John R. Christensen DDS, MS, MS DDS, MS Pediatric Dentistry

February 2018 | parentpublication.com

Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

what’s New at …

carolinaparent.com

Camp Fair Our 2018 Camp Fair is Feb. 18, noon-4 p.m., at Embassy Suites in Cary. Don't miss it!

carolinaparent.com/ camps

ReadeRs’ FavoRites and WinteR Fun Readers’ Favorites

Museum Fun

Winter Fun

It’s once again time to vote for

Play maze games and learn

Discover where to find family fun

your favorite places to visit, shop,

about history, fashion and more

in the Triangle during the colder

dine and explore!

at local museums.

months.

Search for “2018 Readers’ Favorites”

carolinaparent.com/cp/ raleigh-durham-chapelhill-museum-exhibits

carolinaparent.com/ cp/triangle-places-forfamily-fun-in-winter

facebook.com/ carolinaparent

twitter.com/ carolinaparent

Win Prizes From toys to books to performances, enter

pinterest.com/ carolinaparent

to win great prizes.

carolinaparent.com/ cp/contests

instagram.com/ carolinaparent

carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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›

editor’s note

Camp Registration, Ninja Warriors and Teen Dating

E

ach year, our February issue focuses on camp options for Triangle families, and this year's issue is better than ever.

Our camp special section starts after page 18. On page 4 of the camp section, learn how the ninja warrior obstacle courses trend is impacting camp — and fitness — offerings in the Triangle. You’ll discover how these camps work and why they are so popular.

We also explain the benefits of camps designed specifically for middle school-aged kids beginning on page 28 of the camp section. Specialized options enable middle schoolers to dive into an activity they love and develop important life skills.

Turn to page 7 of our special section to begin exploring the Triangle’s most extensive camp directory. You can find even more camp listings online at carolinaparent.com/cp/camp-listings.

Finally, learn about camp programs for Triangle kids in person at our 2018 Summer, Track-Out and Residential Camp Fair, which takes place Feb. 18, noon-4 p.m., at Embassy Suites in Cary. This popular event features representatives from a variety of programs located throughout the region. Look for more information about our camp fair online at carolinaparent.com.

In addition to our popular camp-themed content, we’ve added one more theme to this issue: teens. These complicated creatures who live in your house, call you mom or dad, and surface occasionally for meals and transportation needs live in a world unlike anything we experienced as teens. Technology has impacted the way they develop, communicate, date and interact with their surroundings.

We’ve attempted to understand the world in which modern teens live with three features: “The Teen Dating Game: What to Love and When to Worry” on page 12; “Unhealthy Teen Friendships: Should Parents Step In or Stay Out?” on page 16; and “The Top Teen Social Media Apps and Websites: Understanding the Pros and Cons of Interacting in a Digital World” on page 20, which follows our camp section. As parents who experienced a nondigital adolescence, our learning curve is steep. These features contain helpful insights from experts and teens themselves on what your role should be regarding various issues impacting your own teen’s world.

Other topics we cover in our February issue include how to make the YouTube Kids app safer for your child on page 23; understanding your child’s moods on page 24, a perspective on teen dating from a local father of three daughters on page 25; and a trip to President George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate on page 27.

Beginning on page 29, check out our calendar section for daddy-daughter dances and where you can celebrate the 21st annual Great Backyard Bird Count.

Winter is winding down, which means warmer temperatures are just around the corner.

Enjoy every moment with your kids and be sure to stop by and see us at our camp fair on Feb. 18.

morrismedianetwork.com

PUBLISHER

Katie Reeves · katie.reeves@morris.com

EDITOR

Beth Shugg · bshugg@carolinaparent.com

ASSOcIATE EDITOR

Janice Lewine · jlewine@carolinaparent.com

ART DIREcTOR

Melissa Stutts · melissa.stutts@morris.com

DIgITAL DIREcTOR

Allison Hollins · allison.hollins@morris.com

DIgITAL EDITOR

Myra Wright · mwright@carolinaparent.com

SOcIAL MEDIA SPEcIALIST

Lauren Isaacs · lisaacs@carolinaparent.com

MEDIA cONSULTANTS

Candi Griffin • cgriffin@carolinaparent.com Sue Chen • schen@carolinaparent.com Jen Pieh • jpieh@carolinaparent.com

ADVERTISINg SALES cOORDINATOR Julianne Clune · julianne.clune@morris.com

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLIcATIONS PRESIDENT

DONNA KESSLER

REgIONAL VIcE PRESIDENT Of SALES KRIStEN StANDISH

DIREcTOR Of MANUfAcTURINg DONALD HORtON

DIREcTOR Of PUBLISHINg SERVIcES KAREN FRALICK

PRODUcTION cOORDINATOR CHER WHEELER

cONTAcT US

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Phone: 919-956-2430 · Fax: 919-956-2427 5716 Fayetteville Rd., Suite 201, Durham, NC 27713 advertising@carolinaparent.com · editorial@carolinaparent.com Circulation 35,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services.

Carolina Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards.

Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman William S. Morris III

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Beth Shugg, Editor CoveR phoTo CouRTesy of JaCk MoRToN phoTogRaphy

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FEBRUARY 2018 | carolinaparent.com

President & CEO William S. Morris IV

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parentpublication.com | February 2018

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› FYI

|

community

BY JANICE LEWINE The Carolina Hurricanes distributed 450 turkeys to needy families for Thanksgiving.

Photo courtesy of the Carolina Hurricanes

Maverick Steele won NC 529's Diapers to Dorms Dash on Dec. 30.

Photo courtesy of NC 529

NC 529 Hosts Diapers to Dorms Dash at UNC-CH Five local infants raced across UNC-Chapel Hill’s basketball court during halftime of the men’s basketball game against Wake Forest University Dec. 30 for a chance to win a $529 contribution toward an NC 529 college savings account.

The inaugural baby race, hosted by NC 529, the College

Carolina Hurricanes Players and Staff Distribute Turkeys to Area Families Carolina Hurricanes alumni Erik Cole and Shane Willis, along with mascot Stormy and several team staff members, delivered 450 turkeys to families in need on Nov. 22 — ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday — as part of the Helping Hand Mission in Raleigh. The event marked the seventh year the Hurricanes organization has partnered with Helping Hands for Thanksgiving. Through the Hurricanes’ Tickets for Turkey campaign, a portion of each game ticket sold helped fund the turkey purchases.

Foundation of North Carolina’s National College Savings Program, featured contestants Levi Oliver, 1, of Wake Forest; Winslow Farris, 1, of Chapel Hill; Caleb Wilson, 11 months, of Wake Forest; Jasper Chaos, 10 months, of Chapel Hill; and Maverick Steele, 11 months, of Chapel Hill. Maverick won by crawling across the finish line in 30 seconds. Learn more at nc529.org.

National Register Adds Nine North Carolina Historic Places The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources recently announced the addition of nine historic sites to the National Register of Historic Places. In Wake County, the Depot Historic District Boundary Increase adds three properties to the existing historic district, which was registered in 2002: The 1914 Swift and Company Warehouse, the 1914 Swift and Company Warehouse No. 2, and the 1918 Caveness Produce Company Warehouse. In Durham County, the Franklin and Brame houses, both constructed circa 1901, were added to the Morehead Hill Historic District, originally listed with the Register in 1985 after they were moved from their original locations to lots within the historic district. Learn more at www.ncdcr.gov.

STATS

The percentage of individuals living in poverty in the Triangle, categorized by county: Durham County

17.1%

Orange County

14.3%

Johnston County

13%

Chatham County

11.6%

Wake County

11.1%

Source: Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, foodshuttle.org/hunger-in-nc

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FEBRUARY 2018 | carolinaparent.com

What did your child do in Preschool today?

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Half Day Preschool for ages 2 to 5!

Now offering a 2 and 3 years old Full day program option for upcoming school year!

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ipraleigh.com carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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›

FYI

|

education

BY KAREN SHORE Stevie Howard and his son participate in a Promoting Literacy at Home workshop at Eno Valley Elementary School.

Photo courtesy of Durham Public Schools

Durham Public Schools Encourage Family Engagement Family Academy is a family engagement initiative of Durham Public Schools designed to help parents and families become full partners in their students’ education.

Classes and events focus on what students are learning in schools, positive behavior, the individual education program process, test preparation, helping with homework, advocacy, parent leadership and more. The school system is basing this plan on research that shows when there is a high level of parent engagement, children have fewer discipline problems as well as higher grades, test scores, attendance and graduation rates.

Family Academy also connects with community partners to develop a variety of topics related to family health and wellness, child development, homework support, and social and emotional learning. Examples of classes include Promoting Literacy at Home and Test Preparation for Parents and Students.

Explore the resources available in the Signature Classes and Resources Catalog and Parent Resource Guide, both available at dpsnc.net/page/196.

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WCPSS is now offering an Adult Evening Education program.

Photo courtesy of Wake County Schools/Jennifer McAllister

Wake County Public School System Offers Classes for Adults Several Wake County Public School System high schools serve as hubs for learning new skills or hobbies, improving job skills, and gaining certification for a new career for residents ages 16 and older. Through the Adult Evening Education program, students can take classes to learn about subjects such as calligraphy, cake decorating, caring for backyard chickens, couponing and using essential oils. Students can also become certified as a personal trainer, medical coder or pharmacy technician; and teachers can earn continuing education credits through this program as well.

If you have a skill you’d like you share, you can apply to be an instructor at wcpss.net (search for “adult evening education”). If you’d like to learn a skill that isn’t currently offered, you can submit suggestions.

Classes range from one session to several weeks of sessions, so costs vary. You can also find information about class availability and registration by visiting any WCPSS school or stopping by a Wake County Public Library branch to pick up a copy of the current course catalog.

Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina Advocates for Special Needs Funds In November 2017, Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina, a statewide organization that promotes parental school choice, hosted education savings account (ESA) forums in Raleigh, Wilmington and High Point. PEFNC also led efforts during the spring 2017 legislative sessions to advocate for the new special needs ESA. Families and school leaders were encouraged to attend so they could provide questions and feedback to the legislative leaders in attendance. In total, more than 200 individuals attended the sessions.

PEFNC supports greater educational options through parental school choice, such as public charter schools and private school choice programs. The organization’s mission is to inform parents of the benefits of expanded options and empower them to exercise freedom in meeting their children’s needs, regardless of race, national origin, income or religion.

ESAs are designed to provide $9,000 in state funds to offset educational expenses for families of students with special needs. The special needs ESA will provide up to $3 million in special needs scholarships to North Carolina families in the coming 2018-19 school year. Learn more about the program at exceptionalednc.org.

FEBRUARY 2018 | carolinaparent.com

›

BY KATHERINE KOPP

FYI

|

health

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Anxiety Disorders’ Prevalence Some 40 million people ages 18 or older in the U.S., or 18 percent of the population, will suffer from an anxiety disorder each year, according

Women and Heart Health

to the Anxiety and Depression

February is American Heart Month. Increasingly, women are at risk for illness and death due to

Association of America. In the

cardiovascular disease. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular diseases

course of a lifetime, that rate

and stroke now cause one in three of women’s deaths each year, killing approximately one

increases to 28.8 percent of

woman every 80 seconds.

the population.

Ninety percent of American women have one or more risk factors for heart disease

Anxiety disorders affect

or stroke. Women in the U.S. now have a higher lifetime risk of stroke than men. For more

25.1 percent of children

information on risk factors for heart disease in women, visit goredforwomen.org.

between the ages of 13 and 18.

Of those, 5.9 percent of children ages 13-18 are characterized as

Artificial Heart Muscle Grown in Duke Lab

having “severe” anxiety disorder.

A recently published report in Nature Communications, a print and online source of high-

Research shows that

impact scientific and medical information, demonstrated that Duke University’s biomedical

untreated children with anxiety

engineers were able to create a “cardio patch” of artificial heart muscle. The laboratory-grown

disorders are at higher risk

tissue could potentially be grafted onto a human heart that had been permanently damaged

to perform poorly in school,

by a heart attack.

Heart muscle cannot regenerate itself, so following a heart attack, the affected area of the heart turns into scar tissue. This can lead to congestive heart failure. If laboratory-grown tissue

miss out on important social experiences and engage in

could be grafted onto the damaged area of the heart to allow it to start transmitting electrical

substance abuse. There are also

signals again, that would permit the heart to continue beating and pumping blood. More

a number of other illnesses,

research will be needed to determine the possible clinical implications of this study.

including gastrointestinal

For the full report, visit nature.com/articles/s41467-017-01946-x.

disorders and mood disorders, that occur more commonly

91

The number of Americans who die each year from an opioid overdose.

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

in adults and children with an anxiety disorder. Learn more at adaa.org/about-adaa/pressroom/facts-statistics.

Katherine Kopp is a freelance writer in Chapel Hill. carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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THE TEEN DATING GAME

What to love and when to worry

BY CAITLIN WHEELER

T

oday’s teens are navigating a social media-infused world where the only sure thing is change. But one thing remains constant: Teens love being in love. Their relationships are often powered by texting, Snapchat, Twitter and selfies, but they still contain all of the pleasures — and risks — of pre-internet dating. Whether or not your child has gone on a date, now is the time to start a conversation about building healthy relationships.

What is Dating?

Ask teens how many kids they know who date and they are quick to respond.

“Everyone,” says Durham eighth-grader Wyatt — though he adds, “Not me.” Mason, an 11th-grader in Charlotte, says “more than half” of his friends date.

How do teens define dating? Brooke, a 10th-grader in Raleigh, says the classic definition still applies: A longer-term relationship between two people who are romantically interested in each other.

“If you’re dating someone but don’t think it’s going anywhere, that’s not dating,” Brooke says. “That’s just ‘a thing’ or a hookup.”

Brooke guesses that around 40 percent of the kids at her school date, but adds that only about 10 percent of those relationships are “more serious.”

Lindsey Copeland, a Durham psychologist who owns Copeland Psychological Services and also works as a counselor for Durham Academy’s Upper School, says she does not see evidence of “real” dating until students are in 11th or 12th grade. While middle schoolers might do some group dating on trips to the mall, or might connect with a “boyfriend” or “girlfriend” via daily texts, Copeland says “younger students are still sorting out their own identity and are usually not ready to focus on another person in any serious way.” Such relationships, she says, usually end with an abrupt text or, even more awkwardly, by third-person word of mouth (or text).

Strict definitions aside, all teen relationships are learning experiences — from middle school pairings to high school hookups to watching a friend date his or her true love. The earlier you step in to discuss these interactions with your child, the better.

Benefits and Risks For some kids, dating can be a wonderful learning experience. At its best, dating provides teens with increased confidence, and the chance to learn how to empathize and practice navigating adult relationships.

Brooke, who has had several in-person relationships and is currently involved in a long-distance relationship with a boy

she met through social media, credits her success with looking for the right qualities in a potential boyfriend.

“The most important thing is that your boyfriend is not ashamed to show you off,” she says. “That’s a real relationship — where he says, ‘I appreciate you and I care about you.’

Both sides should be proud of each other.”

Parents can use dating as a teaching tool.

“Ask your child what they think is important in a relationship,” says Betsy Thompson, coordinator of Mental Health Services at Teen Health Connection in Charlotte. “If they have a girlfriend or boyfriend, ask them how their partner shows them respect. If there’s a breakup, ask them what they learned.” It’s easier to teach kids who have experience, she says, because kids don’t always learn from peers’ mistakes.

Dating, unfortunately, is not always a positive experience. Parents typically worry most about sex, but there are other issues to watch out for — like emotional and physical abuse, which parents often don’t consider until after their child experiences it. Copeland sees “too many” college students who have suffered from relationship violence. She says the teen years provide the best time to be open with your child — when family members and adults are nearby and able to identify warning signs.

Self-confidence can provide excellent protection against abuse, says Reana Johnson, a UNC-Chapel Hill sophomore and president of the university’s chapter of “Queen in You,” a mentoring program for middle school girls that helps them discover who they are instead of seeing themselves through the eyes of potential boyfriends. She advises teens not to be in a rush to start a relationship.

“You’re your own person before and after this other person, and you need to take care of yourself before you can take care of other people,” she says.

Talk to your child about what it means to be treated well, and about the signs of a potentially harmful situation. If a teen is not being treated appropriately, he or she needs to know what steps to take in order to stay safe.

“It’s important to recognize when boundaries are being crossed. They especially

PREVENTING DIGITAL RELATIONSHIP ABUSE The constant availability of social media can lead to possessive and predatory behavior.

Teens should be aware that it is not normal for a partner to want to know where they are all the time, or for a partner to demand instant responses to messages.

Reana Johnson, a UNC-Chapel Hill sophomore and president of the university’s chapter of “Queen in You,” a mentoring program for middle school girls, suggests using social media to fight social media. The “mute” option is her favorite feature on Twitter.

“It can be great to just block someone out sometimes, especially if you’re going through a breakup,” she says. “You can always un-mute them later on.”

If muting one person is not enough, Johnson encourages teens to “mute” social media altogether. “On social media, the pressures are constant," Johnson says. "You have to realize there are other things to do with your time. Paint. Keep a journal. Go outside.

Otherwise, you’ll get trapped in this virtual reality. Just remember it is not real life.”

need help learning to communicate when their needs conflict with their partner’s,” Copeland says. She suggests coaching your child in such a way that he or she knows what to say when a dating partner wants something he or she is not comfortable offering.

Teens and Sex While dating can lead to sex for some teens, it does not for others. Being in a committed relationship can be safer than being a part of a crowd prone to hooking up. Brooke is careful to separate sex-based relationships from lovebased dating.

When you’re just in ‘a thing’ with a person, that’s more about sexual attraction than a real attraction,” she says. “A lot of girls are looking for long-term relationships, while guys just want to mess around.”

Contrary to popular belief, not all boys enter relationships just for sex. Some are carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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looking for a deeper connection. Mason says he can be more relaxed and honest with his girlfriend than he can with his guy friends.

“With my baseball friends, it’s all about competing and playing jokes,” he says. “With my girlfriend, it’s sometimes easier because we can just sort of be nice to each other.”

Whether your teen is in a committed relationship or hanging out with a larger social group, the experts we spoke to advise making your values and preferences on sex clear before it becomes an issue. Educate your child about the dangers of teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases — and how to prevent them. If you do not teach your child, he or she will learn from sources you may not agree with or trust. Remind your teen (often) that alcohol and drugs lower a person’s inhibitions to the point where he or she may not have control over his or her decisions.

The more your teen hears this, the more likely he or she is to think before acting.

What About Social Media?

Social media apps have become an integral part of teen culture. “Teens use social media to communicate and connect with romantic partners in ways that may be both healthy and normative, as well as in ways that may be more problematic,” says Jacqueline Nesi, a doctoral student in clinical psychology at UNC-Chapel Hill and lead author of a study on social media's effect on teens’ long-term relationship skills.

Her research suggests that teens may use text messaging for riskier behaviors like “sexting,” but also to have necessary conversations about things like sexual health decisions with partners. For some kids, the chance to sexually express themselves online might lead to less sex and less physical contact, whereas other kids might be more curious about the actual act of sex after seeing or reading something about it online.

“For some kids, it is a slippery slope,” Thompson says. “For others, seeing nude pictures and sex online may desensitize them to risky behavior.”

Social media usage has changed relationship norms. Copeland hears from a lot of teens who are frustrated by their dating peers’ online showboating.

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FEBRuaRy 2018 | carolinaparent.com

“Some teens go out of their way to post how much they love each other and how happy they are — lots of heart emojis, happy couple photos and ‘Look, I’ve got a boyfriend,’” she says. “There’s definitely a social leverage component to some of these social media-style PDAs.” Copeland suggests talking with teens about these public displays of affection, and asking them what role online grandstanding might play in nurturing or harming a relationship.

Brooke believes girls’ reputations are more at stake online than boys’. Male and female teens often take a negative view of girls who are involved in hookups or who share nude photos. “Guys — or even other girls — will call them sluts or hoes,” Brooke says. “That can really hurt a girl’s self-esteem, especially when it gets out there on social media. My friends and I would never do nudes, but it’s pretty unfair. Guys can do whatever they want and don’t get any negative feedback.”

Mason agrees. “Girls get it pretty harsh online,” he says. “My friends try to stay out of all that.”

Warn your teen about the consequences of posting compromising photos — even in the see-it-and-it’s-gone world of Snapchat.

It’s easy to take a screenshot of any image and post it for a broader audience.

Strategies for Starting a Conversation The most natural way to teach your child about healthy partnerships is to model mutually respectful relationships at home. Single parents can teach their children by drawing on what they have learned from good and bad experiences.

Organizations like “Queen in You” can offer resources for teens who are shy and might respond more comfortably to mentors closer in age. You might also consider watching a TV show or movie together to jumpstart a conversation about relationships. Ask your child what he or she thought of a character’s actions, and whether there were alternative avenues he or she could have pursued.

Still don’t know where to start? Copeland recommends the website loveisrespect.org as a resource for learning about how to maintain healthy teen relationships.

Teen TexTing Acronyms And PhrAses Keeping up with your teen’s social life means understanding his or her language. Here’s a cheat sheet for some of the more popular terms or phrases you might discover — and some you hope you won’t — when you scroll through one of your teen’s text threads.

Bae: Baby or sweetie Catfishing: Fabricating an online persona in order to lure a potential partner Ghosting: Cutting off all communication as a means to end a relationship IRL: “In real life” — a relationship that moves from online to face-to-face Netflix and chill: Code for going to each other’s house in order to make out Swerve: To avoid Talking: Casual dating A Thing: Not quite dating, but almost Thirsty: Need lots of attention (sometimes sexual); desperate GNOC: “Get naked on camera” Smash: To have casual sex NIFOC: “Naked in front of computer” CU46: “See you for sex” Source: Urban Dictionary, a crowd-sourced online dictionary of slang words and phrases

Experts say keeping the lines of communication open with your child is key.

“Research shows that communicating with kids — even more so than monitoring their online activity — is effective in promoting healthy social media use,” Nesi says.

Know what social media platforms your kids are using and who they connect with, and make sure they understand how to safely present themselves online. * Names of teens were changed for privacy.

Caitlin Wheeler is a freelance writer in Durham.

Discover St. David’s at a Group Tour

All tours begin at 9:30 a.m.

Feb 7 Lower School Feb 21 Middle/Upper Mar 14 Lower School Mar 21 Middle/Upper Apr 11 Lower School Apr 18 Middle/Upper Reserve your space at sdsw.org/admissions/visit

3400 White Oak Road Raleigh, NC 27609 919-782-3331 | sdsw.org

carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

15

Unhealthy Teen Friendships

Should parents step in or stay out?

By RoByn Kinsey MooRing

If you’re the parent of a teenager, you should be fairly experienced at helping your child learn to navigate the sometimes petty, other times amusing, but mostly wonderful waters of friendship. But what is your role when a friendship takes an unhealthy turn? And how do you help your teen learn when to save — or end — a friendship?

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FEBRuaRy 2018 | carolinaparent.com

The most important consideration is to recognize that this is your child’s friendship, and it really has nothing to do with you as a parent, according to Kate Paquin, a therapist, family coach and owner of Apex-based A Family Coach.

“Parents can’t make their issues the kid’s issues,” she says. There may be something happening that you think is mean or inappropriate, but your child may perceive it differently. If your child doesn’t seem to be affected by it, then “let it go,” Paquin advises.

That said, there are some challenging friendship situations you may encounter with your child over the course of his or her preteen and teenage years. Here’s how to identify them and know what your role should be.

Potentially Harmful As a parent, you’re likely able to detect potentially unhealthy friendships for your child because you have more wisdom and experience under your belt. In such cases, Paquin advises handling the situation much like you would have when your child was a toddler: by using redirection.

Encourage your child to spend more time with other friends and to find other interests, all while helping to build your child’s confidence as much as possible.

Clearly unHealtHy The second type of situation that can be difficult for teens and those who love them is when a friendship becomes truly unhealthy. Susan Orenstein, licensed psychologist and founder of Orenstein Solutions in Cary, says unhealthy friendships occur when “people don’t protect each other, they throw each other under the bus. They might belittle each other a lot or gossip about each other. It feels like a ‘one up’ relationship, and they are really putting the other person down or taking advantage of the other person.”

Paquin says if you observe that your child is in a friendship like this — and seems willing to remain in it — ask your child about something specific you’ve

noticed. For example, “Hey, I heard Suzy say how stupid you are several times in that conversation. What do you think about that?” If your child says, “Oh, she’s like that all the time; I just ignore her,” then Paquin assures parents, “that’s a confident kid and there’s no need to worry.”

If your child says it does bother him, but he doesn’t know what to do about it, then both experts agree that this is the perfect opportunity to talk your child about possible ways to handle the situation, none of which should include you becoming directly involved in it — or saying that your child can’t be friends with that person.

“It gives you an opportunity to kind of explore with them how they are handling it, and if there are other ways they want to handle it because they deserve respect,” Orenstein says. “If parents step in too early, it’s kind of taking away the kid’s chance of figuring things out on their own.” Both experts say it’s a good idea to suggest possible approaches your child might take, but ultimately your child has to decide to speak up for himself — or not.

“It gives the opportunity for the kids to say ‘cut that out,’ and to learn how to set limits and boundaries and to assert themselves,” Paquin says. “Or, if they don’t want to stand up for themselves, (they learn) to be able to make that choice and be able to understand the pros and cons of that.”

Paquin agrees that it’s important for parents to teach these skills to a child because “this isn’t the last time they’re going to have that person or that type of person in their life.” aCCePting tHe loss Despite your child’s best efforts, there will likely be times when trying to address the situation appropriately won’t work.

“My middle school-aged daughter was in a close friendship with a girl who became extremely competitive with her. She wanted to be smarter, more athletic and prettier than my daughter,” says Caroline*, a mom in Holly Springs.

“I encouraged her to speak up about how her friend’s behavior was making her feel, which she says she tried to do in a diplomatic way, but her friend’s competitive attitude continued. It got to the point where she dreaded being around this girl.”

Paquin points out that just because a friendship is competitive doesn’t mean it’s necessarily unhealthy, but if the child has tried to talk to her friend and nothing changes, it’s OK for a parent to help the child determine whether she wants to stay in that friendship.

“There are times where friendships run their course, and that’s okay,” Paquin says.

Breaking tHe news If your child decides it’s time to break up with her friend, Orenstein advises leaving it up to her to decide whether she can tell the person.

Your child might say, “I’m not going to be able to hang out with you as much anymore,” or simply start disengaging.

Orenstein says either approach is perfectly acceptable, as long as it’s the child’s decision and not the parent’s.

Both Orenstein and Paquin agree that the only time a parent should directly get involved in a child’s friendship is if it becomes truly toxic. These are friendships that involve illegal activity and increase the chance that your child could get physically hurt, or that target your child in a very cruel, consistent and deliberate way.

Otherwise, our experts say to parents: Stay out of the breakup. You should, however, be available to talk and provide emotional support as your child works his way through the situation. The result? A well-adjusted teen who is able to decide for herself which friendships are worth keeping, and which ones are worth letting go. *This name has been changed to protect the source’s identity.

Robyn Kinsey Mooring is a Durham-based writer and the mother of two boys. carolinaparent.com | FEBRuaRy 2018

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Overcoming Obstacles Like a Ninja Warrior The benefits of obstacle-course camps

By Mandy Howard STOP! This article is only for parents who want their kids to have fun, grow in athleticism and overcome obstacles in life … literally.

Parkour and Ninja-style obstacle course programs offer these benefits, and are trending around the country. This movement, led in part by the popularity of shows like “American Ninja Warrior” and “Spartan Race” (NBC), doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. Several facilities have popped up in North Carolina to offer kids and adults safe environments in which to learn, train and play.

Raleigh mom Betsy Brown, whose children attend year-round schools, discovered Warrior Tech OCR (obstacle course readiness) in Morrisville while looking for a track-out camp. “My kids are athletic and active and they love the show, “American Ninja Warrior,” so we gave it a shot.”

The verdict was unanimous with her 12-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son. “They loved it!” Brown says. “They came home exhausted and used muscles they didn’t know they had.” She immediately signed them up for Warrior Tech OCR’s summer camp to continue the positive experiences.

Helping you keep your child cavity free for a lifetime.

Why Choose an Obstacle Course Camp?

“There are countless benefits to all of these activities,” says Renato Varga of Kinetic Heights in Charlotte. “Ninja warrior and obstacle courses provide a unique, exciting and, most importantly, fun way to exercise. Often times the obstacles are awkward and different enough from The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry the typical movements people are used to during regular exercise, resulting in a workout that hits way more muscle groups.”

Ninja warrior training may also be the perfect athletic outlet for kids who haven’t found their place in traditional team sports. “Ninja as a sport requires a great deal of persistence and thoughtfulness,” says David Gordon, owner of USA Ninja Challenge in Durham. “Many of our successful students thrive on the individual challenge of Ninja.”

Brown says Warrior Tech OCR’s instructors encouraged her kids to take a teamwork approach to working together. “It was fun to watch them talk to each other about how they got better at things or how they kept messing up at a certain spot,” she says. “They’d give each other tips to try — and encouragement.”

Varga agrees that one of the main benefits of obstacle course training is how it encourages cooperation. “While these activities aren’t quite team sports, they allow for training with peers in a manner that teaches that cooperation and teaching are better for everyone — not competition and showing off,” she says.

As challengers approach each obstacle, Warrior Tech OCR’s “Chief Kid Wrangler,” Justin Fitzgerald, explains different potential tactics, and encourages adaptation and watching those who go before you to help you learn.

When children complete obstacles they thought they couldn’t, or that they may have failed at achieving in the past, they not only gain a sense of confidence, Varga says, but realize that with hard work, they can overcome difficulties — “which could be anything from balancing across a scary beam, making a seemingly impossible jump … or (completing) a large school assignment. Any obstacle can be overcome — what matters most is not giving up.”

It’s also important to expose children to a wide variety of activities so they can find their passion. This an essential element of the camp experiences at U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte. Some of the youth camps there incorporate the center’s Long Point Obstacle Course and high- and low-ropes courses, says Eric Osterhus, brand manager at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

“We believe that everyone has the innate desire to get outside and play, and we believe that looks different for everyone,” he says. “In this day and age where everyone has a device in the palm of their hands, we see ourselves as a breath of fresh air in that you can tap into adventure that you can’t necessarily experience in day-to-day life.”

Martha Ann Keels, DDS PhD Dylan S. Hamilton, DMD MS

What to Look For Fitzgerald says a supportive atmosphere, good coaching and thorough training are musts.

Within the campDuke structure, Warrior Tech OCR 2711 North Street also includes discussions on muscle groups, nutrition, technique and adaptability.

Durham, NC 27704 It’s also important to make sure camp activities are appropriate for your child. At the U.S. National Whitewater Center, kids are exposed to new challenges based on their age, skill level and ability.

Varga emphasizes the importance of a good coach and variety of obstacles. “A truly dedicated, passionate and qualified coach can teach an enjoyable and meaningful lesson with just a few simple boxes,” he says. “Ideally, you want to find somewhere that has a wide variety of obstacles, passionate and qualified instructors, and most importantly, is fun!”

Kinetic Heights and the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte; Warrior Tech OCR and USA Ninja Challenge in Durham; and Enso

919-220-1416

www.dukestreetsmiles.com

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FEBRUARY 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Movement, a parkour training facility with locations in Durham and Raleigh, all offer youth camps, open play sessions and parties. Most of the camps offered at these facilities are suitable for children as young as 5, with more difficult camps available for older children and teens.

Big waves &FAMILY FAVES

Worth the Risk?

These challenges are not without risk. Obstacles are high, difficult and unique. It’s imperative that the camp you choose puts a premium on safety and instruction.

“Make sure that they are teaching your child how to do these obstacles, not that they’re just throwing them in to ‘play,’” Fitzgerald advises.

At Warrior Tech OCR, each morning of camp begins with a warm-up to stretch and strengthen the muscles they will use that day. Coaches are also trained in spotting kids and teaching them how to fall safely.

Aware of the potential for injury, Brown believes these opportunities are worth taking advantage of.

“Of course there is some kind of risk,” she says. “But if you have a kid who is active and likes to challenge themselves, I think it’s a great environment.”

Mandy Howard is a freelance writer and mother of three in Raleigh.

SIDEBAR The Author’s Ninja Experience

By Mandy Howard

S TAY ORIGIN A L

AllNinja kindsWarrior” of people.(Jessie UnitedGraff by our loveour of afamily good time here.toEnjoy live music, Thanks to my family’s obsession with “American rules), decided take Warrior Tech OCR’s chalour seaside boardwalk, and kid-friendly events this spring.

There are a lot of lenge for ourselves. beaches in North Carolina, but only one Carolina Beach.

I took my three little ninjas, Maggie (12), Ben (10) and James (8), to meet with the facility’s “Chief Kid Wrangler” Justin Fitzgerald. Admittedly, I was a little nervous because my three are very different from one |another, and I wasn’t sure how they’d react if one child could CarolinaBeachTravel.com 800-833-3165 complete obstacles while the other two couldn’t (or vice versa).

I quickly, and pleasantly, realized my entire premise was wrong. Obstacle course training programs are not about proving what you can already do — they’re about learning how to push yourself to try new things.

Fitzgerald gave us a peek into how a day of Warrior Tech OCR’s school-age camp runs by showing my kids three different techniques to try with the first obstacle: the quad steps. “It’s not about getting it perfect every time, it’s about finding out which technique works best for you,” he told them.

In less than an hour, each of my kids succeeded in beating an obstacle they had failed to achieve on their first attempt. Although they were thrilled when they reached a new height on the warped wall or caught a new ring in the swinging apparatus, they never became discouraged when they fell.

“You have to be OK with failing here,” Fitzgerald says. “Failing here is different from failing in other places because you’ve probably never done anything quite like this — and they are really, really hard.”

Learn More (MELISSA … please don’t include this is Charlotte book-MH).

Enso Movement (Raleigh and Durham) ensomovement.com Kinetic Heights (Charlotte) kineticheights.com/camps Warrior Tech OCR (Morrisville) warriortechocr.com US National Whitewater Center usnwc.org (Charlotte)

carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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The Top Teen Social Media Apps and Websites Understand how teens interact and communicate in a digital world

BY ELIZABETH KANE

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S

eeing your teen glued to her smartphone probably isn’t anything new, but it may make you wonder what, exactly, she’s doing on there all the time.

Of course, you can’t help your teen if you don’t know the ins and outs of the social media platforms she uses. That’s why Laura Tierney, founder and president of The Social Institute in Durham, says parents should equip themselves with skills to help their kids navigate the digital world.

In a fall 2017 survey of 840 students, The Social Institute identified apps and websites most frequently used by teens during a typical week.

Here are explanations of what these apps and sites are, as well as tips for how to help your teen protect her image online and manage peer pressure associated with social media.

Email and Texting Apps Teens use email and texting apps, such as GroupMe or Tango, to share messages, pictures and videos with each other. They often join multiple conversations via group texts with other teens.

Pros: Teens can easily connect with and send messages to friends, making them feel closer to their peers.

Cons: Group texts can serve as a breeding ground for bashing or bullying, Tierney explains, because it provides a digital space where kids may give in to peer pressure and talk negatively about other students, adults, teachers or coaches. Tierney encourages parents to teach their children to say something thoughtful when the bashing or bullying occurs in an effort to

change the conversation, or to leave the chat altogether if the tone becomes hostile.

Instagram Instagram helps users connect through pictures and videos.

Different filters enhance a photo’s quality and appearance in a few easy clicks.

Pros: Kids share moments with their friends via photos. Posts that everyone can relate to and will approve of typically garner the most “likes.”

Cons: Additional apps and filters can dramatically change the look of any Instagram photo to alter a user’s appearance. Also, when teens “like” photos or videos on their friends’ Instagram accounts, this increases the chance that their friends will “like” one of theirs in return.

This is important to teens because they view Instagram as an extension of their identity.

Consequently, many teens curate their “likes” and “dislikes” and will delete photos that don’t get enough likes.

Snapchat This app allows users to send photos and videos, called “snaps,” to their followers. Snapchat offers teens the option to express their snaps creatively by attaching fun filters to photos and videos.

Pros: The content teens share with their followers isn’t stored on their device and therefore doesn’t eat up storage. Many Snapchat users also start “Snapstreaks” with each other, which means they have “snapped” each other by sending photos (not messages) within 24 hours for more than three consecutive days.

Cons: Just because snaps aren’t stored on a teen’s device doesn’t mean those photos and videos vanish into thin air. When it comes to Snapchat, teens are more likely to share media they “absolutely want to disappear,” Tierney says. However, she explains, third-party apps allow users to download the sender’s content without him or her knowing — a fact, she says, the majority of kids she speaks to are unaware of. Snaps can also be captured via screenshot, although the person who sends the snap is made aware of this when it happens. Also, many teens feel pressured to keep Snapstreaks going, since they will expire unless both Snapchatters send a photo snap back and forth to each other within a 24-hour window.

YouTube You can learn almost anything while browsing this social media platform, which works much like an interactive encyclopedia, Tierney says.

Pros: Teens love sharing funny stories, personal conversations, inspirational content and how-to videos with viewers.

Cons: Once one video ends, the next begins. For many users, sexual content isn’t far away.

Before you let your teen create his own public YouTube channel, Tierney says, have him practice on a shared parental account.

Even if your child has a YouTube account that is public, you can disable the comment section.

Twitter Twitter allows users to quickly share and spread news stories, ideas, pictures and short videos, accompanied by a few sentences

of commentary. Teens turn to Twitter for the latest headlines, and teachers often use it communicate class information.

Pros: Tierney describes Twitter as a social media platform through which users “can connect with anyone, read anything and share anything in one of the largest public settings in the world.”

Cons: Tierney also acknowledges that the minute users post a hurtful or negative tweet, it can “spread like wildfire.” She advises parents to remind their teens that everything they share on Twitter is a reflection of his or her core values and character.

Sit down with your teen and ask her to imagine that she’s the star at a national press conference, Tierney suggests.

Each time she sends out a snap or post, it’s as if her words go straight into a microphone, out to the media for all to see and hear.

“As private as you think that [snap or post] might be, everything that you click ‘send’ on is going into that microphone,” Tierney warns.

Posting online only takes a second, but internet search engines save the information forever. It’s important that your teen understands the gravity of how social media can impact her life, college prospects and future job opportunities. It only takes one bad snap, post or video to create permanent damage your teen may not be able to undo.

Elizabeth Kane is a writer, content strategist and music instructor. She shows parents how to steer their young musicians toward success at practiceforparents.com.

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FEBRUARY

MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE PARTY PACKAGE Take your celebration to the next level with a birthday party at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham! Enjoy an included 30-minute animal program plus use of the party room and all-day museum admission for your partygoers.

Enter to win by going to carolinaparent.com/cp/contests and clicking on the “Museum of Life and Science Party Package” contest post. Type this code in the online form you’ll be required to fill out: MLSPartyFun2018. We’ll announce a winner Feb. 23, 2018. Good luck!

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TECH TALK

2. Disable the search feature. Google allows parents to set up a profile for each child, so the search feature can be enabled or disabled (it defaults to disabled), depending on the child’s age and self control.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

3. Review history. Because YouTubeKids doesn’t have filters, parents can’t necessarily prevent kids from seeing something they don’t want them to see. The app makes it easy to review history, which at least allows a conversation after the fact about why a video is objectionable.

7 Ways to Make YouTube Kids Safer

BY CAROLYN JABS

K

ids love videos — the sillier the better. And it’s a rare parent who hasn’t used them to secure a little quiet time. YouTube is by far the largest source of videos of all kinds. When the company created the YouTube Kids app in 2015, many parents assumed its content would be carefully curated and reliably child-friendly.

Much of it is. YouTube Kids allows young children to happily swipe through a vast collection of content featuring characters like Winnie the Pooh and Peppa Pig. Mixed into this are education clips from reputable sources like Khan Academy, plus videos created by users, which vary enormously in content and quality. A small percentage of these videos includes bizarre and even traumatizing images, sometimes of beloved characters doing lewd and violent things.

How does this happen? Google uses artificial intelligence to decide whether a video is suitable for children. Although AI has come a long way, it doesn’t always detect the nuances that distinguish adult satire from the innocent content it’s meant to mock. AI also is often oblivious to trolls and click-bait. In its defense, Google warns that children may encounter inappropriate content and asks parents to flag such material so other kids won’t see it.

Even when content is properly curated, parents should be aware that children see a lot of commercial messages on YouTube Kids. While YouTube Red memberships are free of paid advertising, children still have access to entire channels created by companies like Hasbro or McDonalds. Also, unfortunately, parents can’t set their own filters for content or create playlists of acceptable videos, such as those reviewed by Common Sense Media. In an effort to keep your kids safe while using YouTube Kids, consider taking advantage of these options: 1. Change the password. It's a good idea to frequently change your YouTube Kids password. Search for the “Grown-ups Only” section and unlock it by using the random

four-digit passcode that is provided. Numbers are spelled out to ensure that prereaders can’t use the code. If your child can read, click the “Set my own Passcode” button.

4. Block videos you don’t want your child to see. If you come across something unsuitable, just tap the triple-dot button for the video and then tap the “Block” button.

5. Report videos that no child should see.

Reporting gets the attention of human screeners who are actually counting on conscientious parents to let them know about unsuitable content that slips by the YouTube Kids robots. Think of this as a public service.

Just tap the triple-dot button and then the “Report” button.

6. Set limits. To its credit, YouTubeKids does include a timer. Once it’s set, a colored progress bar lets your child see how much time is left in a session. When the clock runs out, a “Time’s Up” animation appears and the app locks until a parent enters the access code.

7. Consider other options. YouTubeKids may have the largest collection of videos but, when it comes to kids, quality is preferable to quantity. Companies like Disney, Nick Jr. and PBS KIDS have brands to protect so they are likely to be more careful about what appears in their apps. You can also consult video alternatives compiled by Common Sense Media at commonsensemedia.org/lists/ streaming-video-apps.

Carolyn Jabs is the author of “Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart,” available at Amazon and cooperativewisdom.org. carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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UNDERSTANDING KIDS Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Understanding Moods and Anxiety

BY LUCY DANIELS CENTER STAFF

M

ood shifts and anxious feelings are part of the emotional makeup of all people, young and old. Some parents may feel that their child is too moody or experiences excessive anxiety. To help parents understand what can be considered expectable and what may be too much for a child to bear, we will first share what we mean by moodiness and anxiety.

Moodiness All children experience mood shifts.

Sometimes influences on a child’s mood are obvious, such as excitement and elation about an experience, or sadness and disappointment over a loss. Other times, moods seem to exist without any apparent or known influence. Either way, ups and downs in moods that do not seem extreme or that do not fluctuate rapidly are within a range we would call typical or expectable.

Anxiety Anxiety – feeling worried or fearful – is the mind’s way of protecting a person from danger. All people need a certain amount of anxiety, which serves to protect them from dangerous situations. Anxiety stops a

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person from going too close to the edge of a cliff or walking into a dangerous situation. It is essential for survival.

Sometimes, people feel anxious in situations that may seem dangerous, but are not actually dangerous. The mind perceives the situation as dangerous and triggers an anxiety signal that, in turn, might activate a behavioral response (such as fight or flight emotions; feelings of withdrawal or shyness; impulsivity; or hyperactivity). In these cases, anxiety serves to protect the person from unwanted or uncomfortable feelings.

For example, a person who is fearful of public speaking may experience embarrassment or shame in a way that is so uncomfortable, it’s intolerable and, therefore, the anxiety serves to prevent the

person from being in situations that could lead to these feelings. A little bit of this type of anxiety is typical for many people and, as long as it does not become excessive, it often folds into one’s personality and becomes a matter of preference. Such a person may say, or example, “I just prefer not to give speeches to large audiences,” to avoid being placed in that situation.

When Does It Become a Problem?

When “feeling down” seems to affect a child’s ability to follow a family routine, go to school, complete assignments, participate in relationships with peers, or care for oneself, the child may need additional support or help to cope with these mood dips. Likewise, when feelings of excitement or elation are often combined with hyperactivity or impulsivity that is difficult for the child (or parent) to manage, additional support may help a family understand what triggers the child’s anxiety and why his or her behavioral responses are so strong. In some cases, avoidance or refusal of typical childhood tasks, such as going to school or separating from parents, indicates that there is a high level of anxiety interfering with the child’s ability to feel safe and comfortable in what most people would consider a nonthreatening situation.

Getting Help Early The sooner a child receives help or intervention for significant or frequent mood swings, extreme feeling states or anxiety that interferes with daily living, the more likely he or she will be able to find ways to effectively cope with and manage those feelings. Our experience and research in the area of childhood mental health indicate that younger minds are more malleable and are, therefore, more open to help that creates a lasting impact.

The Lucy Daniels Center is a nonprofit agency in Cary that promotes the emotional health and well-being of children and families. Visit lucydanielscenter.org to learn more.

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FATHER FIGURING

Dating Dilemmas

BY BRUCE HAM

S

everal years ago my oldest daughter, Bailey, who was in high school at the time, came into the house around 11 p.m. and announced, “Dad, you’re not going to believe what happened!”

Her enthusiasm peaked my interest.

“What?”

“Well, Sam called me and — OMG — when she got home tonight her mom was mugging with her boyfriend in the driveway!

Gross! Why would old people do that?”

Sam was Bailey’s friend from school.

Sam’s mother had been a widow for quite some time. Apparently, mugging is making out. I, too, lost my wife eight years ago, so I said, “Go, Sam’s mom!” I had to explain to my kid that, although we had crested 40, we still liked to kiss, eat solid foods and go to the bathroom independently — all the regular stuff she likes to do.

She scrunched up her nose and said, “Ooooh.”

I actually have three daughters. Two are in high school and the oldest is now in college. My daughters’ high school consists of an all-girl student body. It limits their dating options.

Bailey’s junior year brought her first real boyfriend, Donald. I referred to him as The Donald (these were pre-Trump presidency days). After they declared their intent to date exclusively, my “dadar” (dad radar) went up. I was no longer content with The Donald doing a drive-by to pick her up.

“No more tooting the horn and you leaping out the front door,” I told her. “The Donald needs to walk his butt inside this house, look me in the eye and shake my hand. Yeah — that’s what The Donald is going to do.”

I found it interesting that the week before, a toot-and-scoot was acceptable to

Bruce Ham knows how to manage the teen dating scene, thanks to fathering three teen girls.Photo courtesy of the Ham family

me. Suddenly I needed to see his eyes and let him feel the grip of my hand. You can tell a lot about a guy in those two gestures.

Although I got pushback, The Donald parked and entered our house the following Friday night. His demeanor told me he was uneasy. That made me happy.

I strived with all my might to nonverbally convey two things to this obviously inexperienced young man: 1. My daughter had better be happy when she gets home.

2. Touch her and you die.

Their connection harkened me back to my first girlfriend, Carolanne. It was eighth grade and we would meet at her house, walk through the woods to the park and “mug” like Sam’s mom. Later, I learned that her little brother and sister hid behind trees and watched us. She didn’t have a father, and her mother was not very intimidating. It was fun! I didn’t want my

daughter to have that experience. She could have fun playing volleyball or something.

It’s interesting how our perspectives on things evolve through the years — and how we, as parents, work to shield our kids from some of the exact same things we did.

It’s also interesting how our kids have a totally different set of standards for us than they have for themselves.

The Donald didn’t last very long. A fairly amicable breakup occurred at the local Moe’s Southwest Grill just a month or so after our first handshake. And although he was the one whose heart was broken, I don’t think he minded all that much. I believe he was more fit for a girl with a less attentive father.

Bruce Ham, who lives in Raleigh, started writing after losing his wife and raising his three daughters on his own eight years ago.

He has written a book, “Laughter, Tears and Braids,” about their journey, and writes a blog about his family's experience at therealfullhouse.wordpress.com.

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COLLEGE TRANSITIONS him or her to further explore interests outside the classroom.

Get a job. Perhaps more than anything else, a job demonstrates to an admissions committee that your student is mature, practical and ready to take on the responsibilities associated with adulthood. If he or she can get a job in an area of interest, great; if not, advise him or her to get one anyway. Most of us, at one time or another, have had to find alternative, less attractive ways to fund the pursuit of our passions.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

How to Plan Extracurricular Activities That Really Count

BY DAVE BERGMAN, ED.D.

"W

hat extracurricular activities look good on a college application?” We hear this question a lot — often from students who have come to view the college application process as an exercise in spin, rather than an opportunity to exhibit passion.

While the temptation to amass activities is strong, especially given the overwhelmingly competitive nature of college admissions, it’s important to realize that superficiality will not get your student far in life, and it certainly won’t help your child get into the college of his or her choice. Admission officers are interested in meaningful engagement, not perfunctory participation. And they are smart enough — and experienced enough — to distinguish between the two.

That being said, here are a few rules your student should abide by when planning his or her extracurricular involvement strategy.

Keep it real. Every admissions season, colleges strive to admit a diverse community of students with a wide range of talents and interests. If your student is not interested in sports or student council, don’t worry about it. Colleges are just as intrigued by the student filmmaker or poetry club founder as they are by the power basketball forward or student body president. Provided that your student demonstrates a deep and consistent commitment, admissions officers will take notice — whatever the activity.

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Focus on depth, not breadth. Students who assume leadership roles and participate extensively in one or two pursuits (for about 10-12 hours per week) will always outshine comparable applicants who merely dabble in numerous activities. If your student wants to make a meaningful impact, encourage him or her to find a niche interest.

Take advantage of summer. Your student should use summer to secure an internship, take a class, or enroll in a camp that will allow

Be Honest About Extracurriculars.

When it comes time for your student to fill out college applications, advise him or her not to exaggerate his or her level of community service work or extracurricular experience.

The notion that your child somehow volunteered at a nursing home 20 hours per week while playing three varsity sports, taking four AP classes, and editing the school newspaper seems logistically impossible and, if it somehow was true, still sounds more unhealthy than impressive.

There is no reason for your student to be less than 100 percent honest about what he or she has done in his or her spare time during high school. Some students, short on activities, panic at the sight of so much blank space on their activities section that they resort to grossly embellishing or inventing clubs, sports, jobs and the like.

This phenomenon is seen way too often in admissions offices around the country. If you need proof that this way of operating always ends in disaster, see George Constanza’s antics in just about any “Seinfeld” rerun.

All in all, extracurricular life is not about building a resume (your student will have plenty of time to do that later). It’s about finding a true calling. If your child follows his or her heart and strives for authenticity, college will take care of itself.

Dave Bergman, Ed.D., is a co-founder of College Transitions and co-author of “The Enlightened College Applicant: A New Approach to the Search and Admissions Process.” Learn more at collegetransitions.com.

› EXCURSION

Mount Vernon, Virginia

BY MICHAEL SCHUMAN

A

visit to President George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate by the banks of the Potomac River in Mount Vernon, Virginia, offers families an iconic American history experience. If you go, expect to see more than President Washington’s carefully preserved mansion. Still the main attraction, his grand home supplements the property’s other fascinating features.

The Mansion President Washington acquired Mount Vernon in 1754. His father, Augustine, originally built the home in 1735 as a one-and-a-half-story house. President Washington expanded it to create the 21-room residence, of which 14 rooms are open to the public for viewing.

Staff member Melissa Wood says the New Room is a favorite chamber among visitors, who favor it not only because of its large size, two-story ceiling and stylish furnishings, but also for its architectural detail and historical context. George and Martha Washington hosted parties and receptions for VIPs of their day in this room, which originally displayed 21 works of art.

Six of these original landscape paintings are currently on display in the room.

The New Room features tall, airy windows and is saturated in vivid mint green wallpaper (the use of bold colors in the 1700s was a sign of wealth). Before exiting, ask your kids to look up at the ceiling carvings to see how many plants and farming tools they can recognize.

Other notable rooms guests walk through during the tour include the West Parlor, where tea and coffee were customarily served during winter and on rainy days; the downstairs bed chamber, where many of the Washingtons' esteemed guests stayed; the dining room, which

Mount Vernon offers families a glimpse of President George Washington's life.

Photo courtesy of DigiDreamGrafix/Shutterstock was part of the original structure before President Washington expanded it; and the study, where the nation’s first president could privately and quietly attend to personal business matters.

Donald W. Reynolds Mount Vernon Museum and Education Center Among the more memorable artifacts you’ll find in the Donald W. Reynolds Mount Vernon Museum and Education Center’s 23 galleries are President Washington’s legendary false teeth. They were not made of wood, as many believe.

These choppers were crafted from a combination of elephant ivory, and human and cow teeth.

Sit inside a reproduction family box pew like the one in Pohick Church where the Washingtons worshiped, and hear the general’s prescient views regarding religious freedom.

One video shares the story of George and Martha’s lifelong romance, expanding on tales of young George Washington’s courtship of Virginia’s wealthiest widow and what made their marriage last for 40 years.

Another video delves into 18th-century espionage practices, such as the use of invisible ink, hiding letters in the children’s jacket buttons and hanging conspicuous capes on clotheslines to alert allies that a message was waiting.

The Outbuildings Walk through the numerous outbuildings to see where the plantation’s essential operations were performed. Replicas of barrack-style men’s and women’s quarters constructed in 2010 represent the residences of slaves who worked on the plantation as craftsmen and craftswomen.

The buildings are sturdy and constructed of brick, as are the floors. In order to sleep comfortably, slaves covered the wooden bunks with straw.

Other outbuildings include the spinning room, blacksmith shop and smokehouse. The Washingtons were known for serving the best Virginia smoked hams.

Plan Your Visit Mount Vernon is open 365 days a year with operating hours of 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 1-March 31; and 9 a.m.-5 p.m., April 1-Oct. 31. The distillery and gristmill are open April 1-Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission is $20 for ages 12-61; $19 for ages 62 and older; $10 for ages 6-11, and free for ages 5 and younger. Purchase tickets online at discounted rates at mountvernon.org. Visitors can also rent an audio tour handset for $7.

Award-winning author Michael Schuman has written 46 books and hundreds of travel articles. carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

27

Come as you are... Be a Star!

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Track out and Summer Camps available with performances following camp.

Sign up here: raleighact.com

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FEBRuaRy 2018 | carolinaparent.com

February OUR PICKS

BY JANICE LEWINE

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Whirlikids Book Festival Feb. 3 Picture-book creators and celebrated authors of books for young people highlight the Whirlikids Book Festival, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Fearrington Village in Pittsboro.

Enjoy readings and signings from authors Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, Emily Jenkins, Ursula Celebrate Mardi Gras Feb. 10 in Wake Forest. Photo courtesy of the Town of Wake Forest

Vernon, Stacy McAnulty, Karina Yan Glaser, Alan Gratz and more. Take part in fun activities and visit farm animals in the Belted Barnyard. fearrington.com/whirlikids.

Wake Forest Mardi Gras Street Festival | Feb. 10 Don your masks and beads and head to the Mardi Gras Street Festival in downtown Wake Forest, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This family event features a walking parade at 1 p.m., face painting, street entertainers, kids’ activities, inflatables, food trucks and a variety of contests, including a Bubblegum Blowing Contest at 2 p.m.

See the Harlem Globetrotters take on the Washington Generals Feb. 11 in Raleigh.

Photo courtesy of Brett Meister

in Jones Plaza. Admission is free. wakeforestnc.gov/wake-forest-mardi-gras.aspx.

Harlem Globetrotters | Feb. 11 Don’t miss the Harlem Globetrotters when they bring their renowned basketball-handling wizardry to Raleigh’s PNC Arena for a game at 3 p.m. against the Washington Generals. See the Globetrotters’ star-studded roster showcase basketball’s first 4-point line (located 30 feet from behind the basket), and enjoy the team’s celebrated style of comedy and athleticism. Purchase tickets, $18-$75, at ticketmaster.com.

carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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Great Backyard Bird Count

GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT The 21st annual Great Backyard Bird Count takes place this month. Here are some local activities commemorating this event.

INTRO TO BIRD WATCHING Feb. 16 – Harris Lake County Park, 2112 County Park Dr., New Hill. 3:30-5:30 p.m. FREE. Learn how to identify birds and hike along the shoreline to count them. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/harrislake.

BIRD WALKS Feb 16-19 – Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. 8:30-10 a.m. FREE. Join park staff to collect data, look for birds in a variety of habitats, and learn techniques to identify winter residents and visitors. Enjoy hot beverages and a review of bird sightings after the walk. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree.

AFTERNOON BACKYARD BIRD COUNT Feb. 17 – Crowder District Park, 4709 Ten Ten Rd., Apex. 3:30-4:30 p.m. FREE. Join a park naturalist on a short hike around Crowder Pond to discover backyard birds by sight, sound and other signs.

All ages with adult. Registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

BIRDIE BENEFITS Feb. 17 – Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. Noon-3 p.m.

FREE. Enjoy a variety of bird-related games, activities and crafts. Discover ways to attract birds to an outdoor space and how to help birds in decline. All ages. Registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree.

BREAKFAST WITH THE BIRDS Feb 17 – Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 9-10:30 a.m. FREE. Enjoy doughnuts with coffee or hot chocolate before taking a walk with a park naturalist to identify birds in the park. Take a reusable mug for each member of your family. All ages. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

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FEBRUARY 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

CITIZEN SCIENCE

BIRD OLYMPICS

Feb. 17 – Durant Nature Preserve, 8305 Camp Durant Rd., Raleigh. 2-3:30 p.m. $3/person. Take a walk around the preserve to count birds. Warm up after the walk with hot chocolate and then make a birdfeeder. Ages 5 and older with an adult.

Advance registration required online. Choose course #215889. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

Feb. 19 – Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh. 10-11 a.m.

FREE. Join park staff for games and activities in celebration of the Great Backyard Bird Count.

Ages 5 and older. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/bluejay.

AFTERNOON BACKYARD BIRD COUNT

Feb. 19 – Crowder District Park, 4709 Ten Ten Rd., Apex. 9-10 a.m.FREE. Search for common birds and count them along the way. Practice using binoculars and learn how to identify these animals by shape and color. All ages with adult. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

Feb. 18 – Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 2:30-3:30 p.m. FREE. Join a park naturalist on a short hike around the park to discover backyard birds by sight, sound and other signs. All ages with adult. Registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

ADVENTURES IN BIRDWATCHING Feb. 19 – Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. 1-3 p.m. FREE. Spend the afternoon learning about birds and bird conservation. Go on a bird behavior scavenger hunt, play the migration game, and learn how to identify common species on the lake and at a bird feeder.

Make suet for birds. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree.

EARLY BIRDERS

KIDS GET CRAFTY Feb. 19 – Crowder District Park, 4709 Ten Ten Rd., Apex. 11 a.m.-noon. FREE. Create a bird. Materials provided. All ages with adult. Registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

NATIONAL BIRDS Feb. 19 – Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. FREE. Learn about the use of birds in national symbols and make your own bird-themed Great Seal to take home. All ages. Drop-in program; registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

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1 THURSDAY

Project Enlightenment Workshop: “Teaching Children How to Regulate Their Own Behavior.”

Project Enlightenment, 501 S. Boylan Ave., Raleigh. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $22/person, $33/ couple. Learn ways to interact with a child that teaches self-control. For families with children ages 3-6. Register online. projectenlightenment.wcpss.net.

2 FRIDAY

Whooo is the Screech Owl? Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. 6-8 p.m. FREE. Learn about owls and take an evening hike in search of them and other nocturnal species. See what their homes looks like and take home instructions on how to build an owl box. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/ lakecrabtree.

3 SATURDAY

Expressive Portrait Painting for Teens.

Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St., Durham. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $35. Ages 13-17 complete an expressionist portrait of a person of their choosing and learn the technical skills of painting. All experience levels welcome. Register online. durhamarts.org/classes.html.

MLK/Black History Month Parade and Block Party. Fayetteville St., downtown Durham. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. FREE. Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King and celebrate Black History Month with a parade at noon that includes marching bands, floats, and local dance groups. A block party from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. features food trucks, vendors, bounce houses, face painters and more. spectacularmag.com.

STEM Saturdays. SMILE Camp, 6301 Hillsborough St., Raleigh. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $55/child. Take part in science experiments.

See website for ages and times. Register online. smilecamp.org/programs/academic.

4 SUNDAY

Young Ecologists: Exploring Wetlands.

Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Raleigh. 2-4 p.m. $12/resident, $16/nonresident.

Search for salamanders, crayfish and more with preserve staff. Ages

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10-13. Register online. classweb. townofcary.org.

Photo courtesy of iStock

5 MONDAY

Parent/Child Clay Workshop: Light Switch Covers. Durham Arts Council Clay Studio, 1058 W. Club Blvd., Durham . 4-5:30 p.m. $15-20. Parent and child create their very own ceramic artwork using slabs and textures. Register online. durhamarts.org.

6 TUESDAY

Nature Peekers: From Head to Toe. Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh. 10:30-11 a.m. $2/child. Read “From Head to Toe” by Eric Carle and enjoy time outdoors. Ages 18 months-3 years with a caregiver. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/bluejay.

Parent/Child Fun with Fiber: Hand Warmers. Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St., Durham. 9:45-11 a.m. $12. Parent and child explore fiber and textile crafts. Register online. durhamarts.org.

Success Strategies for Family, Friendships and School. Duke Child and Family Study Center, 2608 Erwin Rd., Pavilion East, Ste. 300, Durham.

6:30-8 p.m. FREE. This session led by Barbara Donadio, RN, BSN, provides an overview of impact of ADHD on the family and outline specific strategies including resources to help parents advocate. Register online. dukehealth.org/events.

Valentine Cookie Decorating. Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 5-7:30 p.m. $35/resident, $46/ nonresident. Ages 11-14 create Valentine cookies. Register online. Choose course #109358. classweb.townofcary.org.

7 WEDNESDAY

Family Swim Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Goldfish Swim School Wake Forest, 14460 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh.

Noon-2 p.m. Enjoy a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of Goldfish Swim School. A FREE family open swim starts at noon. All ages. goldfishswimschool.com/wake-forest/ events/ribbon-cutting-ceremony.

FAMILY DANCES DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE Feb. 10 – I.R. Holmes Sr. Recreation Center, 2000 S. Alston Ave., Durham.

5-7:30 p.m. See website for fees. Dads and daughters enjoy a night of dancing and fun. Music and refreshments served. Uncles, grandfathers and family friends may also accompany young ladies. Ages 4-11. Register online. dprplaymore.org.

DADDY-DAUGHTER/ MOTHER-SON DANCE AT CARY BALLET CONSERVATORY Feb. 10 – Cary Ballet Conservatory, 3791 N.W. Cary Pkwy., Cary. 6:309 p.m. $40/couple, $15 additional sibling. Parent and child enjoy a night of dancing with music, refreshments, a keepsake photo and door prizes. Wear party attire.

Proceeds benefit Cary Ballet Company. caryballetcompany.org/ upcoming-events.

CHESTNUT RIDGE DADDYDAUGHTER DANCE Feb. 11 – Camp Chestnut Ridge, 4300 Camp Chestnut Ridge Rd., Elfland. 5-8 p.m. $20/couple. $5/ additional daughter. Dads and daughters dance, play games, and enjoy door prizes and refreshments.

Purchase tickets online. campchestnutridge.org.

DURHAM MOTHER-SON DANCE Feb. 15 – Holton Career and Resource Center, 401 N. Driver St., Durham. 6-8 p.m. FREE. Mothers and sons ages 3 and older enjoy a night of music, dancing, refreshments and a keepsake photo. dprplaymore.org.

CELEBRATE FAMILY'S DADDY-DAUGHTER AND MOTHER-SON DANCE Feb. 17 – Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, 421 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. 6-9 p.m. $25-$55. Fathers and daughters and mothers and sons enjoy a complimentary photo, flower, dinner and dancing. Ages 2-16. Purchase tickets online. celebratefamily2018. eventbrite.com.

CLAYTON FATHERDAUGHTER DANCE Feb 17 – The Clayton Center, 111 E. Second St., Clayton. 7-10 p.m. $40/couple. Enjoy refreshments, two photo booths, music and more. Purchase tickets online. theclaytoncenter.org.

carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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Wee Walkers: Light as a Feather.

Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 10-11 a.m. $8/resident, $10/ nonresident. Children delight in discoveries of shapes, colors and textures in nature. Ages 1 and older with parent. Registration required. classweb.townofcary.org.

8 Thursday

Nature Fun-Days: Discovering Dinosaurs. Stevens Nature Center/ Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 10 a.m.-noon. $9/resident, $12/nonresident. Kids hike, make projects and engage in nature activities. Ages 5-8. Register online. classweb.townofcary.org.

Wee Walkers: Light as a Feather.

See Feb. 7.

9 Friday

Geocaching 101 on the American Tobacco Trail. American Tobacco Trail, 1305 White Oak Church Rd., Apex.

3-4:30 p.m. $1/person. Learn about geocaching and search for a geocache in the park. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/att.

Kids Exchange Consignment Sale.

North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. 9 a.m.5 p.m. FRee. Shop for gently used clothing, toys, baby equipment and more. kidsexchange.net/raleigh.

Meteorology Masters: Weather Instruments. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 2-3:30 p.m. $3/child. Ages 9-13 learn how scientists predict the weather. Measure the atmosphere using tools and make a weather instrument to take home. Register online. Choose course #215419. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

10 saTurday

Fam Jam Raleigh. Imurj, 300 S. McDowell St., Raleigh. 3-5 p.m.

FRee. enjoy a family-friendly concert featuring Nathan Ryan and the Whomevers. northraleigh. macaronikid.com.

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A Side of History: The Legends of Saint Valentine. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 11 a.m.-noon. $1/person.

Discover the history of this centuriesold holiday and create a Valentine’s Day card to give to someone special.

All ages. Registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Weave It Wild Workshop: Fuzzy Valentine. Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St., Durham. 12:30-4:30 p.m. $36. explore the interplay of color and texture by weaving colorful yarn scraps, natural fibers and unusual materials.

Ages 10-15. durhamarts.org.

11 sunday

Curiosity Club: Searching for Salamanders. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 2-4 p.m. $8/resident, $10/nonresident. Ages 5-8 embrace science and nature while developing skills and knowledge about the natural world. Register online. classweb.townofcary.org.

Family Feature: Happy Valentines Day, Mother Nature. Crowder District Park, 4709 Ten Ten Rd., Apex.

2-3 p.m. $1/person. Make homemade Valentine presents, including a nesting ball and a bird feeder, for feathered friends. Create a card from natural objects to give to a special someone while eating a Valentine’s Day snack. All ages with adult.

Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

Family Swim and Grand Opening Party. Goldfish Swim School Wake Forest, 14460 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh. 2-5 p.m. FRee. enjoy a family open swim, a balloon twister and more. All ages. goldfishswimschool. com/wake-forest/events/ribboncutting-ceremony.

12 Monday

Art in the Park: Colorful Valentines.

Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. FRee. Make Valentine’s Day arts and crafts. All ages with

FEBRuaRy 2018 | carolinaparent.com

adult. Registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

13 Tuesday

Art in the Park: Colorful Valentines.

See Feb. 12.

14 Wednesday

Art in the Park: Colorful Valentines.

See Feb. 12.

Explore Dorothea Dix Park: Love Bugs. Dorothea Dix Park Big Field, 101 Blair Dr., Raleigh. 11 a.m.-noon.

FRee. Ages 2-6 and caregiver enjoy games, stories and songs featuring six-legged creatures. Register online. eventbrite.com.

Lil Cooks in the Kitchen: “Secret Pizza Party.” Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 4-5:30 p.m. $23/resident, $30/nonresident. Read the story by Adam Rubin and make personalized pizzas. Register online. Choose course #109608. classweb.townofcary.org.

15 Thursday

Project Enlightenment Workshop: “Understanding the Minds of Boys.” Project enlightenment, 501 S. Boylan Ave., Raleigh. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $22/person, $33/couple. Discover how neurological and hormonal differences impact boys’ behavior and learning. projectenlightenment. wcpss.net.

16 Friday

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

Morrisville Outlet Mall, 1001 Airport Blvd., Morrisville. 10 a.m.8 p.m. FRee. Shop for gently used children’s clothing, toys, educational materials, infant equipment, nursery furniture, maternity wear and more. kidseverywear.com.

17 saTurday

Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo.

PNC Arena, 1400 edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh. 7:30 p.m. $20-$76. See professional cowboys compete in a variety of riding styles. enjoy pony rides, opportunities to meet cowboys

and entertainers and more. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

Connect & Create: Huggable Monsters.

Artspace, 201 e. Davie St., Raleigh.

10 a.m.-noon. $10/member, $15/ nonmember. Join artist Sarah Whitney and learn how to make a monster out of repurposed materials.

All ages and skill levels welcome.

Materials provided. artspacenc.org.

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

See Feb. 16.

Starry Nights. Horseshoe Farm Nature Preserve, 8305 Camp Durant Rd., Wake Forest. 6-7:30 p.m. $6/person.

Celebrate the stars with cookie decorating, stories, a craft and stargazing. Ages 3 and older with parent. Advance registration required online. Choose course #215890. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

18 sunday

Carolina Parent’s 2018 Summer, Track-Out and Residential Camp Fair. embassy Suites Cary, 201 Harrison Oaks Blvd., Cary. Noon4 p.m. FRee. Learn about day camps, track-out programs and residential camps, and enter to win prize giveaways. carolinaparent.com.

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

See Feb. 16. 1-8 p.m.

Weekend Family-Friendly Tours: Celebrate Black History. North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. 10:30 a.m. FRee. Celebrate Black and African-American artists and stories. Ages 5-11 and caregiver. ncartmuseum.org.

19 Monday

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

See Feb. 16.

Raptors of Harris Lake County Park.

Harris Lake County Park, 2112 County Park Drive, New Hill. 1-2:30 pm. FRee. Learn about raptors and take a short hike to look for them. Ages 6 and older. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/harrislake.

20 Tuesday

Winter Stories at the Farmhouse: Deer. Horseshoe Farm Nature

› Preserve, 2900 Horse Shoe Farm Rd., Wake Forest. 10-11 a.m. $2/person.

Listen to a nature story and make a craft. Ages 3-5 with caregiver.

Advance registration required online.

Choose course #215883. reclink. raleighnc.gov.

21 WEDNESDAY

Preschool Swamp Romp: Beavers.

Walnut Creek Wetland Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh. 11 a.m.noon. $2/child. Parent and child ages 2-6 enjoy a craft, story, activity and guided walk through the wetland. Register online. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

22 THURSDAY

Nature Fun-Days: Tadpole Trackers.

Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary.

10 a.m.-noon. $9/resident, $12/ nonresident. Kids hike, make projects and engage in nature activities.

Ages 5-8. Register online. classweb. townofcary.org.

A Night of Giving and Service. Cary Senior Center Ballroom, 120 Maury O’Dell Place, Cary. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $2/resident, $3/nonresident. Make thank-you cards for American Red Cross staff and volunteers. Ages 11 and older. Register online.

Choose course #111616. classweb. townofcary.org.

23 FRIDAY

Astronomy Night. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 6-7:30 p.m. $3. Ages 5 and older with a caregiver view the moon, stars, and more with the preserve’s telescope. Register online.

Choose course #215412. reclink. raleighnc.gov.

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert Featuring the North Carolina Symphony.” Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 7:30 p.m. $50-$80. See the movie in highdefinition while the North Carolina Symphony performs John Williams’

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score live. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

Lil Cooks in the Kitchen: “Secret Pizza Party.” See Feb. 14. 10-11:30 a.m.

Choose course #109612.

“Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles.”

Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. 8 p.m. $35-$89.

The tribute band Rain performs the Beatles’ historic album in a multimedia spectacular. Suitable for ages 6 and older. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

“Scraps! The Ragtime Girl of Oz.” Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. 7:30 p.m. See the website for fees. Applause! Cary Youth Theatre presents the tale of Scraps, a girl who intends to go her own way until an unexpected adventure broadens her understanding of the world around her. Purchase tickets online. etix.com.

24 SATURDAY

Future Me Kids Career Fair.

Marbles Kids Museum, 201 E. Hargett St., Raleigh. 1-4 p.m. $7 ages 1 and older. Children meet an architect, dentist, engineer and other professionals representing a wide variety of careers. marbleskidsmuseum.org/ futuremefair.

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” in Concert Featuring the North Carolina Symphony.

See Feb. 23.

Rags to Riches Theatre for Young Audiences Presents “Another Strand in the Web.” The Scrap Exchange, 2050 Chapel Hill Rd., Durham. 3:30-5:30 p.m. $10/ person. Enjoy three spider tales.

Take part in a craft activity after the show. Ages 2 and older.

Purchase tickets online or at the door. eventbrite.com.

“Scraps! The Ragtime Girl of Oz.” See Feb. 23.

STEM Saturdays. See Feb. 3.

Weekend Family-Friendly Tours: Celebrate Black History.

See Feb. 18.

PLANNING A FAMILY GETAWAY? carolinaparent.com/daytrips

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School Year

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MBP is dedicated to providing an educational setting which will facilitate skill development in the creative, physical, social, emotional, language, cognitive and spiritual domain.

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25 Sunday

Animal Puppets and Ventriloquism. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 3-4:30 p.m. $3/child. Ages 6-10 create an animal puppet from a sock and learn simple ventriloquism techniques.

Register online. Choose course #215497. reclink. raleighnc.gov.

Junior Naturalist: Backyard Wildlife at Bond Park.

Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 2-3 p.m. $8/resident, $10/ nonresident. Participants develop naturalist skills and understanding of local nature. Ages 5-8 with parent.

Register online. classweb.townofcary.org.

“Scraps! The Ragtime Girl of Oz.” See Feb. 23. 3 p.m.

Weekend Family-Friendly Tours: Celebrate Black History. See Feb. 18.

26 Monday

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Tell A Fairytale Day. Durant Nature Preserve, 8305 Camp Durant Rd., Raleigh. 10-11 a.m. $4/person. Celebrate Tell a Fairytale Day by enjoying a nature-themed fairy tale and create a fairy to take home. Ages 3-5.

Advance registration required online. Choose course #215891. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

27 TueSday

Open Bounce. BounceU Apex, 3419 Apex Peakway, Apex.

Noon-2 p.m., 2-4 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. $10/child. Enjoy music, games and inflatables. Take socks. Registration recommended online. bounceu.com/apex.

28 WedneSday

Wee Walkers: Wildlife Paradise. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 10-11 a.m. $8/resident, $10/nonresident.

Children delight in discoveries of shapes, colors and textures in nature. Ages 1 and older with parent. Registration required. classweb.townofcary.org.

CALENDAR POLICY The Carolina Parent calendar lists local and regional activities for children and families. Visit carolinaparent.com/calendar to submit an event for consideration by the 6th of the month for the next month's issue. Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. This calendar may include some events not intended for young children. Find more events at carolinaparent.com/calendar.

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FEBRuaRy 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Learn to Play Learn to Sing

YOUR AD. THIS SPACE. NEXT MONTH.

Degreed performer of Voice and Piano shares 26 years experience

919-830-6075 advertising@carolinaparent.com

susan@riggsmusic.com

Locations in Raleigh & Wake Forest

Buy 4 lessons in first month and get 5th lesson FREE!

› FACES & PLACES

Ryder (21 months) and Dylan (3) bundle up at a Christmas tree farm in Raleigh.

Submit high-resolution photos of your kids having fun in the Triangle at carolinaparent.com/facesandplaces.

carolinaparent.com | FEBRUARY 2018

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Boundaries, Unknown.

Besides up-close and personal animal encounters at the aquarium, storytime at the Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, and Civil War forts, you can still experience the kind of beach vacation you had as a kid at Kure Beach.

KureBeachVacations.com | 888-587-3224

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2018 C mp

18 C mp G

C mp Guide

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2018 C mp Guide

04 Conquering Challenges Like a Ninja Warrior The benefits of obstacle course camps

07 Day Camp Directory

28 Middle School Camps

24 Track-Out Camp Directory

Discovering passions while building life skills

30 Residential Camp Directory

NOTE: This directory identifies the camp advertisers and camp fair vendors who had contracted with us as of press time for our February issue. There may be additional vendors who registered to attend our camp fair after our February issue went to press. A full and updated list of vendors will be available at the fair.

SPONSORS

carolinaparent.com | 2018 CAMP GUIDE

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2018 C mp Guide Gerald, 15, of Cary, races up one of Warrior Tech OCR's warped walls.

Conquering Challenges Like a

NiJa WaRiR The benefits of obstacle course camps

BY MANDY HOWARD | PHOTOS BY JACK MORTON PHOTOGRAPHY

S

TOP! This article is only for parents who want their kids to have fun, grow in athleticism and overcome obstacles in life … literally.

Parkour and ninja-style obstacle course programs offer these benefits, and are trending around the country. This movement, led in part by the popularity of shows like “American Ninja Warrior” and “Spartan Race” (which both air on NBC), doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. Several facilities have popped up in North Carolina to offer kids and adults safe environments in which to learn, train and play.

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2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

Raleigh mom Betsy Brown, whose children attend year-round schools, discovered Warrior Tech OCR (obstacle course readiness) in Morrisville while looking for a track-out camp. “My kids are athletic and active and they love the show, ‘American Ninja Warrior,’ so we gave it a shot.”

The verdict was unanimous with her 12-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son.

“They loved it!” Brown says. “They came home exhausted and used muscles they didn’t know they had.” She immediately signed them up for Warrior Tech OCR’s summer camp to continue the positive experiences.

Why Choose an Obstacle Course Camp?

“There are countless benefits to all of these activities,” says Renato Varga of Kinetic Heights in Charlotte. “Ninja warrior and obstacle courses provide a unique, exciting and, most importantly, fun way to exercise.

Oftentimes the obstacles are awkward and different enough from the typical movements people are used to during regular exercise, resulting in a workout that hits way more muscle groups.”

Ninja warrior training may also be the perfect athletic outlet for kids who haven’t found their place in traditional team sports.

“Ninja as a sport requires a great deal of persistence and thoughtfulness,” says David Gordon, owner of USA Ninja Challenge in Durham. “Many of our successful students thrive on the individual challenge of ninja.”

Brown says Warrior Tech OCR’s instructors encouraged her kids to take a teamwork approach to working together. “It was fun to watch them talk to each other about how they got better at things or how they kept messing up at a certain spot,” she says. “They’d give each other tips to try — and encouragement.”

Varga agrees that one of the main benefits of obstacle course training is how it encourages cooperation. “While these activities aren’t quite team sports, they allow for training with peers in a manner that teaches that cooperation and teaching are better for everyone — not competition and showing off,” she says.

As challengers approach each obstacle, Warrior Tech OCR’s “Chief Kid Wrangler,” Justin Fitzgerald, explains different potential tactics, and encourages adaptation and watching those who go before them to help them learn.

When children complete obstacles they thought they couldn’t, or that they may have failed at achieving in the past, they gain a sense of confidence and realize that with hard work, they can overcome difficulties — “which could be anything from balancing across a scary beam, making a seemingly impossible jump … or (completing) a large school assignment," Varga says. "Any obstacle can be overcome — what matters most is not giving up.”

It’s also important to expose children to a wide variety of activities so they can find their passion. This an essential element of the camp experiences at U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte. Some of the camps there incorporate the center’s Long Point Obstacle Course and high- and low-ropes courses.

“We believe that everyone has the innate desire to get outside and play, and we believe that looks different for everyone,” says the center's brand manager, Eric Osterhus.

“In this day and age where everyone has a device in the palm of their hands, we see ourselves as a breath of fresh air in that you can tap into adventure that you can’t necessarily experience in day-to-day life.”

What to Look For Fitzgerald says a supportive atmosphere, good coaching and thorough training are musts. Warrior Tech OCR also includes discussions on muscle groups, nutrition, technique and adaptability.

It’s also important to make sure camp activities are appropriate for your child. At the U.S. National Whitewater Center, kids are exposed to new challenges based on their age, skill level and ability.

Varga emphasizes the importance of a good coach and variety of obstacles. “A truly dedicated, passionate and qualified coach can teach an enjoyable and meaningful lesson with just a few simple boxes,” he says. “Ideally, you want to find somewhere that has a wide variety of obstacles, passionate and qualified instructors, and most importantly, is fun!”

Katie, 16, of Apex, attempts to move an angled object across a metal track while hanging from it at Warrior Tech OCR.

Kinetic Heights and the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte; Warrior Tech OCR and USA Ninja Challenge in Durham; and Enso Movement, a parkour training facility with locations in Durham and Raleigh, all offer youth camps, open play sessions and parties. Most of the camps offered at these facilities are suitable for children as young as age 5, with more difficult camps available for older children and teens.

Worth the Risk?

These challenges are not without risk.

Obstacles are high, difficult and unique. It’s imperative that the camp you choose puts a premium on safety and instruction.

“Make sure that they are teaching your child how to do these obstacles, not that they’re just throwing them in to ‘play,’” Fitzgerald advises.

At Warrior Tech OCR, each morning of camp begins with a warm-up to stretch and strengthen the muscles they will use that day.

Coaches are also trained in spotting kids and teaching them how to fall safely.

Aware of the potential for injury, Brown believes these opportunities are worth taking advantage of.

“Of course there is some kind of risk,” she says. “But if you have a kid who is active and likes to challenge themselves, I think it’s a great environment.”

Mandy Howard is a freelance writer and mother of three in Raleigh.

LEARN MORE

Enso Movement (Raleigh and Durham) ensomovement.com Kinetic Heights (Charlotte) kineticheights.com/camps Warrior Tech OCR (Morrisville) warriortechocr.com U.S. National Whitewater Center (Charlotte) usnwc.org USA Ninja Challenge (Durham) usaninjachallenge.com/durham-nc

Ninja warrior obstacle challenges work muscles that participants don't use every day.

The Author’s Ninja Experience

By Mandy Howard Thanks to my family’s obsession with “American Ninja Warrior” (Jessie Graff rules!), our family decided to take Warrior Tech OCR’s challenge for ourselves.

I took my three little ninjas, Maggie (12), Ben (10) and James (8), to meet with the facility’s “Chief Kid Wrangler” Justin Fitzgerald.

Admittedly, I was a little nervous because my three are very different from one another, and I wasn’t sure how they’d react if one child could complete obstacles while the other two couldn’t (or vice versa).

I quickly, and pleasantly, realized my entire premise was wrong. Obstacle course training programs are not about proving what you can already do — they’re about learning how to push yourself to try new things.

Fitzgerald gave us a peek into how a day of Warrior Tech OCR’s school-age camp runs by showing my kids three different techniques to try with the first obstacle: the quad steps.

“It’s not about getting it perfect every time, it’s about finding out which technique works best for you,” he told them.

In less than an hour, each of my kids succeeded in beating an obstacle they had failed to achieve on their first attempt.

Although they were thrilled when they reached a new height on the warped wall or caught a new ring in the swinging apparatus, they never became discouraged when they fell.

“You have to be OK with failing here,” Fitzgerald says. “Failing here is different from failing in other places because you’ve probably never done anything quite like this — and they are really, really hard.” carolinaparent.com | 2018 CAMP GUIDE

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The Town of Cary has camps, classes, and programs for all ages and all interests!

LEARN. LAUGH. PLAY.

We’ve got you covered during track-out, teacher workdays, traditional school breaks, and holidays. Choose from a variety of activities including sports, music, arts, drama, nature, science, dance, history, skateboarding, and more!

We also offer Cary residents the opportunity to apply for scholarships and/or reduced fees for Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources programs through a scholarship fund.

Go online to learn how to apply for or donate to the fund.

Register your child starting February 5 (residents) or February 19 (nonresidents). Online registration is available at classweb.townofcary.org or visit any Town of Cary community center to register in person.

(919) 469-4061 @TOC_Fun www.townofcary.org

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DAY CAMPS The Triangle offers families plenty of day camp choices. Browse our extensive list here and find even more information online at carolinaparent.com/cp/camp-listings.

NOTE: A brief description is included for camps advertising in this issue of Carolina Parent, as well as camps attending our 2018 Summer, Track-Out and Residential Camp Fair on Feb. 18, noon-4 p.m., at Embassy Suites in Cary. Camp exhibitors also have a star beside their names.

MULTIPLE COUNTIES Bright Horizons Family Solutions« Various Triangle locations brighthorizons.com; 877-624-4532 Camp Invention Various Triangle locations campinvention.org; 800-968-4332 Grades K-6. See website for fees and sessions, financial aid available.

Week-long programs held at various Triangle locations that immerse elementary school children in hands-on STEM activities and reinvent summer fun.

Camp TechTerra Various Triangle locations in Durham camptechterra.com; 919-627-4207 Carolina Edge Volleyball Durham Athletic Club 2410 Residential Dr., Ste. 102, Durham carolinaedgevolleyball.com Carolina Friends School Summer Programs 4809 Friends School Rd., Durham cfsnc.org/summer; 919-384-9089 Ages 4-18. June 18-Aug. 17., 8 a.m.-5:45 p.m. $270-$295/week, financial aid available. Academics, arts and crafts, computers and nature activities.

Girl Scouts - North Carolina Coastal Pines Various locations throughout central North Carolina nccoastalpines.org; 800-284-4475 The Goddard Schools Various Triangle locations goddardschool.com

Kramden Institute: Hands-On Technology Camps 4915 Prospectus Dr., Durham kramden.org/camps; 919-293-1133 iD Tech Camps and iD Tech Teen Academies Various Triangle locations idtech.com; 888-709-8324 Ages 7-18. Day and residential camps held at UNC-Chapel Hill and at 60-plus universities in 26 states.

IMACS« 5738 Dillard Dr., Cary imacs.org; 919-786-0246 Full-day camp for grades 3-8 and individual classes for grades 1-10. See website for fees and sessions. Logic puzzles, computer programming, virtual robotics and electronics. iWalk the Eno Science and Nature Camp 4404 Guess Rd., Durham iwalktheeno.org; 919-620-9099 x204 Ages 8-12. June 18-23 and June 25-29. See website for fees. Hands-on discovery of science and nature in the outdoors. Camps help kids develop skills in science, respect for each other and the natural environment.

Mad Science Camps 1019 Passport Way, Cary 919-858-8988 Primrose Schools: Summer Adventure Club Various Triangle locations primroseschools.com Schoolhouse of Wonder« 5101-B N. Roxboro Rd., Durham

schoolhouseofwonder.org; 919-477-2116 Ages 5-17. May 29-Aug. 14, 8:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m., feature nature-based, outdoor day camps for ages 5-12.

Leadership training opportunities for ages 13-17. See website for fees and discounts. Locations in Durham, Wake and Orange counties.

Track-out camps and Discovery Days Jan-May feature archery, arts and crafts, environmental education, camping/hiking, campfire cooking, music, outdoor adventures, river exploration, storytelling and more.

and half-day programs; hands-on experiential learning includes Design & Build, agri-science, language immersion, the arts, personal development and more.

Summer School for grades 4-12; June 11-Aug. 3, 8 a.m.-noon (math); 1-4 p.m. (language arts); two-

YMCA of the Triangle« 801 Corporate Center Dr., Raleigh ymcatriangle.org/programs-andservices/camps; 919-719-9989 Ages 3 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Full- and half-day camps are available throughout the Triangle region. Nature activities, sports and more.

Camp Shelanu 1937 W. Cornwallis Rd., Durham levinjcc.org/camp-shelanu/summerday-camp-durham-nc; 919-345-4948

DURHAM COUNTY American Dance Festival’s Summer Dance Camps 715 Broad St., Durham americandancefestival.org/studios/ dancestudios/camps; 919-684-6402 Bull City Craft 105 W NC 54, Durham bullcitycraft.com; 919-419-0800 Camelot Academy Summer Camps 809 Proctor St., Durham camelotacademy.org; 919-688-3040 Edu-Ventures for ages 6-12; June 11Aug 3, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; engaging, full-day program that includes daily academics and fun, recreational field trips. Summer Explorations for ages 5-18; June 11-Aug. 13; full-

week sessions for remediation or enrichment in math or language arts are available; 10 students per class.

Camp Riverlea 8302 S. Lowell Rd., Bahama campriverlea.com; 919-477-8739

Duke Gardens 420 Anderson St., Duke University, Durham gardens.duke.edu/learn/camp; 919-668-1707 Rising grades K-8. June 11-Aug. 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., extended care available from 1-4 p.m. $200/week, financial aid available. $100/week, extended care. Arts and crafts, games and nature activities.

Duke Lemur Center 3705 Erwin Rd., Durham lemur.duke.edu; 919-489-3364 Duke School 3716 Erwin Rd., Durham dukeschool.org/page/explore/ duke-school-summer-camp; 919-493-1827 Ages 4-15. See website for fees and sessions, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Recreational and educational programs.

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D AY C A M P S Duke Youth Programs 104 E. Campus Union Dr., Durham learnmore.duke.edu/youth; 919-684-6259 Middle and high school grades.

Writing, science, math, computers, leadership and pre-college. Camps held at Duke University.

Durham Academy Summer Programs 3501 Ridge Rd., Durham da.org/summer; 919-287-1763 Durham Arts Council 120 Morris St., Durham durhamarts.org; 919-560-2726 Ages 5-13. See website for fees and sessions. Visual and performing arts camps in drawing, painting, clay, mixed media, dance, theater and chorus.

Durham Parks and Recreation 400 Cleveland St., Durham durhamnc.gov/2777/summer-camps; 919-560-4355 Fly, Fight, FIT at Bonsai Studios« 2945 S. Miami Blvd., #130, Durham bonsaistudiosllc.com; 919-237-3989 Ages 7-12. June 18-Aug. 4, 9 a.m.4 p.m., extended care available. $350/ week, full day; $200/week, half day.

Aerial silks, trapeze, hula hooping, self-defense and other games.

Girls Rock NC 2210-D E. Pettigrew St., Durham girlsrocknc.org/summer-rock-camp; 919-627-3087 The Goddard School - Durham 5300 Fayetteville Rd., Durham goddardschool.com/raleighdurham/durham-fayetteville-roadnc/summer; 919-544-3311 Grey Stone Kids’ Camp 2601 Hillsborough Rd., Durham greystonekidscamp.com; 919-251-5715 The Hill Center 3200 Pickett Rd., Durham hillcenter.org/summer;

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919-489-7464 Lower school: Grades K-rising 6.

June 25-July 27, 8:30-11:30 a.m. $2,850/session. Daily instruction in reading, written language and math.

Upper school: Grades 7-9. June 25-July 27, 1-4 p.m. $2,400/session.

Daily instruction in reading and writing strategies, math concepts, and executive function study skills.

Hoops City U 4300 Emperor Blvd., Durham hoopscityu.com; 919-474-2400 Immaculata Catholic School 721 Burch Ave., Durham immaculataschool.org/camps.html; 919-682-5847 Rising PK-8. See website for fees and sessions. Academics, languages, arts, sports and music.

Just Kidding Around Summer Day Camp at Hux Family Farm 1923 Shaw Rd., Durham eventbrite.com/e/justkidding-around-at-hux-familyfarm-summer-camp-2017tickets-32191604957 Kids ‘R’ Kids RTP 2502 Presidential Dr., Durham kidsrkidsrtp.com; 919-544-5050 Montessori Children’s House of Durham 2800 Pickett Rd., Durham mchdurham.org/summer; 919-489-9045 Montessori Community School 4512 Pope Rd., Durham mcsdurham.org; 919-493-8541 Museum of Life and Science Summer Camp« 433 W. Murray Ave., Durham lifeandscience.org/summer-camp; 919-220-5429 Ages 4 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Academics, animal care, crafts, nature activities and more.

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North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics – Summer Accelerator 1219 Broad St., Durham ncssm.edu/summer-programs/ accelerator; 919-416-2969 North Carolina Volleyball Academy 4235 Surles Ct., Ste. 300, Durham ncacademyvb.org; 919-412-9394 Notasium Durham 3750 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd., Durham notasium.com/summer-campsdurham-nc; 919-230-9321 Our PlayHouse Preschool 2400 University Dr., Durham ourplayhousepreschool.com; 919-967-2700 Piedmont Wildlife Center at Leigh Farm Park 364 Leigh Farm Rd., Durham piedmontwildlifecenter.org; 919-489-0900 Triangle Circus Arts 148 Christian Ave., Ste. C, Durham trianglecircusarts.com; 919-680-4966 Triangle Day School 4911 Neal Rd., Durham triangledayschool.org; 919-383-8800 Triangle Nonprofit and Volunteer Leadership Center Camps P.O. Box 3374, Durham trianglevolunteercenter.org; 919-613-5101 Triangle Sportscaster Camp 3800 Hillsborough Rd., Durham trianglesportscastercamp.com; 919-291-7918 Woodcroft Swim and Tennis 1203 W. Woodcroft Pkwy., Durham woodcroftclub.org/camp; 919-489-7705

ORANGE COUNTY 3D Visuals Camp 630 Weaver Dairy Rd., Ste. 104, Chapel Hill 3dvisualsllc.com; 919-883-4876 Art and Writing Camp at Afterschool Art and More 105 E. Market St., Chapel Hill afterschoolartandmore.com; 919-401-6001 ArtsCamp at The ArtsCenter 300-G E. Main St., Chapel Hill artscenterlive.org; 919-929-2787 Ballet School of Chapel Hill 1603 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill balletschoolofchapelhill.com; 919-942-1339 Blue Skies of Mapleview 3609 Pasture Rd., Hillsborough blueskiesmapleview.us; 919-933-1444 Camp Starfish Stoneridge/Sedgefield Swim & Racquet Club, Chapel Hill sssrc.org; 919-967-0915 Carrboro Recreation and Parks 100 N. Greensboro St., Carrboro carrbororec.org; 919-918-7364 Chapel Hill Gymnastics 7405 Rex Rd., Ste. 207, Chapel Hill chapelhillgymnastics.com; 919-942-3655 Ages 3 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Gymnastics and more.

Chapel Hill Tennis Club 403 Westbrook Dr., Carrboro chapelhilltennisclub.com; 919-929-5248 Ages 5-15. June 11-Aug. 3, 9 a.m.2 p.m. $265-$325/week. Arts and crafts, outdoor play, swimming and tennis instruction.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools 750 S. Merritt Mill Rd., Chapel Hill chccs.k12.nc.us; 919-967-8211

D AY C A M P S

Morrisville (919) 460-1500 www.kidsrkidsmorrisville.com

Cary (919) 467-1112 www.kidsrkidscary.com

*****School of Excellence

*****School of Excellence

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2018

VOTE

for your favorites February 5-March 31 Let us know your favorite parent-approved places to play, learn, eat and shop in our annual Readers’ Favorites Awards! The winners will be featured in The Triangle Go-To Guide, which publishes in May, as well as in our summer June/July issue.

CarolinaParent.com/favorites | #CPReadersFaves 10

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D AY C A M P S Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools – Community Schools 750 S. Merritt Mill Rd., Chapel Hill chccs.k12.nc.us; 919-967-8211 Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center 4300 Camp Chestnut Ridge Rd., Efland campchestnutridge.org; 919-304-2178 Cooperative Extension 4-H Summer Sizzle Middle School Camp 306-E Revere Rd., Hillsborough orange.ces.ncsu.edu; 919-245-2056 Emerson Waldorf School 6211 New Jericho Rd., Chapel Hill emersonwaldorf.org/summercamps-1; 919-967-1858 Ages 4-18. June 18-July 27, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $170-$225/week. Arts and crafts, games, music, nature activities and performing arts.

Family Martial Arts Summer Camp 1229 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill taekwondohapkido.com; 919-929-0442

Learning Outside 2912B Jones Ferry Rd., Chapel Hill learningoutside.org; 919-932-0322 Maker Camp Chapel Hill 601 Meadowmont Lane, Chapel Hill makercampch.com; 919-544-5858

Glazed Expectations 205 W. Main St., Ste. 104, Carrboro glazedexpectations.com; 919-933-9700 IMACS High-Tech Summer Camp 105 Market St., Chapel Hill imacs.org; 919-786-0246 Immersion Island Language Immersion Camps Camps held at New Hope Camp, Chapel Hill immersionisland.org; 919-259-2843 KidsFest at Chapel Hill Bible Church 260 Erwin Rd., Chapel Hill kidsfest.biblechurch.org; 919-408-0310

Montross Quarter Horses 9000 Dodsons Crossroads, Chapel Hill montrossquarterhorses.com; 919-929-3092 Ages 9-14, all girls. June 18-22, July 23-27 and Aug. 6-10, 9 a.m.12:30 pm. $550/session. Equine studies camp to build confident horsewomen and teach them the skills necessary for horse ownership.

Morehead Planetarium Summer Science Camps 250 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill moreheadplanetarium.org/ programs/youth-family-programs/ summer-science-camps;

919-843-7334 Grades K-8. See website for fees and sessions. Academics, science activities and more.

Movie Makers 5502 Turkey Farm Rd., Durham movie-makers.net; 919-960-8233 New Hope Camp and Conference Center« 4805 NC 86 S., Hillsborough newhopeccc.org; 919-942-4716 Grades K-12. See website for fees and sessions, June 11-Aug. 10.

Swimming, hiking, nature trails, sports, art activities and more.

North Carolina Botanical Garden Nature Explorers Summer Camp 100 Old Mason Farm Rd., Chapel Hill ncbg.unc.edu; 919-962-0522 North Carolina Therapeutic Riding Center 4705 Nicks Rd., Mebane 919-304-1009

Creativity, Confidence, Collaboration

Hiking, Fishing, Canoeing, Swimming, Archery (3rd grade and above) Soccer, Basketball, Gaga Ball and more with our specialized nature and recreation counselors! Clay, Woodworking, Drawing, Painting, Music (and a few surprises) with our Visiting Artists!

For all the exciting information on our summer camp go to www.newhopeccc.org Don’t delay and register today! info@newhopeccc.org

919 942 4716

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D AY C A M P S Our PlayHouse Preschool 3501 Hwy. 54 W., Chapel Hill ourplayhousepreschool.com; 919-967-2700 Piedmont Wildlife Center at Blackwood Farm Park 4512 NC 86, Chapel Hill piedmontwildlifecenter.org; 919-489-0900 Progression Climbing 1713 Legion Rd., Chapel Hill climbprogression.com/programs. html; 919-904-7217 School of Rock - Chapel Hill 1500 Fordham Blvd., Chapel Hill locations.schoolofrock.com/ chapelhill; 919-338-1011 Soccer is Fun: Summer Soccer Camp P.O. Box 727, Carrboro soccer-is-fun.blogspot.com; 919-260-1511 SuperTots Sports Academy Various locations in Chapel Hill supertotsports.com/centralnc; 585-738-7360 Triangle Drone Academy 133 S. Franklin St., Chapel Hill triangledroneacademy.com; 919-537-8189 United Tae Kwon Do Academy of Chapel Hill 102 Brewer Lane, Carrboro unitedtkd.com/programs-andbenefits/summer-camps; 919-933-7778 Writing Wonders and More 105 Market St., Chapel Hill afterschoolartandmore.com/ writing-wonders-and-more; 919-902-3038 Yoga + Art + Exploration Camp 1600 Briar Chapel Pkwy., Chapel Hill eventbrite.com; 919-780-3516

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WAKE COUNTY Active Tracks Camp 116 Quantum St., Holly Springs activetrackscamp.com; 919-346-4696 Artistic Gymnastics 3315 Anvil Place, Raleigh artisticgymnastics.us; 919-772-9463 Arts Academy of Apex 612 Hwy. 751, Apex artsacademyofapex.com; 919-323-2219 Arts Together« 114 Saint Mary’s St., Raleigh artstogether.org; 919-828-1713 Ages 3-12. Camps in art, dance and drama that combine artistic disciplines with academic topics.

Artspace Summer Arts Program 201 E. Davie St., Raleigh artspacenc.org; 919-821-2787 Ages 5-16. June 11-Aug. 10, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $140/class, financial aid offered. Art classes for all skill levels. Campers meet artists and create art.

Bach to Rock Music School Camps« 958 U.S. 64, Apex apex.b2rmusic.com/camps; 919-446-5386 Ages 7 and older. See website for fees and full- and half-day sessions June-August. Rock band camp, DJ camps, recording artists camps and more.

Biomedicine, Bots, Computing & Engineering - STEM for Kids« 112- C Pheasant Wood Ct., Morrisville stemforkids.net/t/nctriangle; 919-297-8366 STEM/STEAM programs designed for ages 4-14: summer and track-out camps, afterschool, Saturday and evening classes.

BounceU of Apex Create and Bounce Technology Camp 3419 Apex Peakway, Apex bounceu.com/apex-nc; 919-303-3368 Brain Camp at LearningRx 8305 Six Forks Rd., Ste. 207, Raleigh 919-232-0090 Bricks 4 Kidz - Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest Multiple locations throughout Wake County bricks4kidz.com/northraleigh; 919-271-8638 Bright Horizons at Raleigh Corporate Center 800 Corporate Center Dr., Raleigh child-care-preschool.brighthorizons. com/nc/raleigh/rcc; 919-852-0509 Blue Jay Point County Park 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh wakegov.com/parks/bluejay/public/ Pages/smc.aspx; 919-870-4330

Beth Meyer Preschool Summer Camp 504 Newton Rd., Raleigh bethmeyerpreschool.org/programs/ summer-camp; 919-870-6477

Burning Coal Theatre Company Summer Theatre Conservatory 2018 224 Polk St., Raleigh burningcoal.org/stc; 919-834-4001

Biomedicine, Bots, Computing & Engineering - STEM for Kids« 7610 Falls of the Neuse Rd., Raleigh stemforkids.net/t/nctriangle; 919-297-8366 STEM/STEAM programs designed for ages 4-14; summer and track-out camps, afterschool, Saturday and evening classes.

Camp JCC 12804 Norwood Rd., Raleigh campjrocks.com; 919-676-6170

2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

Camp Jellybeans 10701 Common Oaks Dr., Raleigh skate2jellybeans.com; 919-562-2326

Camp Moo Gung Hwa 105 Indian Branch Dr., Morrisville koreanculturecamp.net; 919-605-2743 Camp MusArt 616 W. Chatham St., Apex campmusart.com; 919-267-5509 Camp Trinity 10224 Baileywick Rd., Raleigh camptrinitync.org; 919-786-0114 Camp Wind Eagle Nature Camp - Center for Human-Earth Restoration 6814 Fayetteville Rd., Raleigh centerforhuman-earthrestoration. com; 919-270-8876 The Cardinal Center for Behavior Analysis 956 W. Chatham St., Cary thecardinalcenterforbehavioranalysis.com; 919-234-1546 Cary Academy Summer Programs 1500 N. Harrison Blvd., Cary caryacademy.org; 919-677-3873 Cary Ballet Conservatory 3791 N.W. Cary Pkwy., Cary caryballet.com; 919-481-6509 Cary Comedy Clown Camp 119 Ambassador Loop, Cary calvin-klown.com/camp; 919-469-4069 CC & Co. Dance Complex« 8863 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh cccodance.com; 919-846-5200 Ages 2-18. June 25-Aug. 10. Fees vary. Kids nurture their minds, bodies and souls in creative summer camps featuring dance, tumbling, games, arts and crafts, and more.

Chesterbrook Academy - Cary 130 Towne Village Dr., Cary chesterbrookacademy.com/ elementary/raleigh-durham/cary/ camps/summer-camp; 919-319-9622

D AY C A M P S

AT CHESTERBROOK ELEMENTARY

New discoveries, great friends, and fun times.

CALL FOR DETAILS ABOUT OUR

· MARCH · OPEN HOUSE

chesterbrookacademy.com/camp

• Recreational swimming & lessons (on-site pool) • Field trips, special guests & events • Specialty enrichment camps • Sports & games • Exciting STEM activities • Arts, crafts, music, dance & drama

877-959-4181

130 TOWNE VILLAGE DRIVE, CARY • 10200 STRICKLAND ROAD, RALEIGH CBA_CarolinaParent_Feb18_7.125x4.5.indd 2

12/19/17 2:54 PM

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D AY C A M P S Chesterbrook Academy – North Raleigh 10200 Strickland Rd., Raleigh cbaelementarynorthraleigh.com; 919-847-3120 City Ballet 7440 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh city-ballet.com/schedules/summer; 919-844-9799 Climbing Camp at Triangle Rock Club - Morrisville« 102 Pheasant Wood Ct., Morrisville trianglerockclub.com/about/ locations/morrisville; 919-463-7625 Ages 7 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Rock climbing, adventure, team-building and more.

Climbing Camp at Triangle Rock Club - North Raleigh« 6022 Duraleigh Rd., Raleigh trianglerockclub.com/about/ locations/north-raleigh; 919-803-5534 Ages 7 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Rock climbing, adventure, team-building and more.

The Clubhouse @ Bright Horizons« 2500 Highstone Rd., Cary child-care-preschool.brighthorizons. com/nc/cary/clubhouse; 919-380-2003 Code Ninjas« Park West Village Shopping Center, Morrisville codeninjas.com; 919-694-7171 Ages 7-14. Week-long coding camps offer video game design, beginning javascript, Minecraft workshops, math, logic and teamwork. theCoderSchool Coding Camp 201 Davis Grove Circle, Ste. 105, Cary thecoderschool.com/cary; 919-931-2033 theCoderSchool Coding Camp 13200 Strickland Rd., Raleigh thecoderschool.com/raleigh; 919-390-1708

Colonial Sports Ministry 6051 Tryon Rd., Cary sports.colonial.org/summer-camps Creedmoor Road Baptist Church Preschool Summer Camp 6001 Creedmoor Rd., Raleigh creedmoorroadbaptist.weebly.com; 919-571-8376 Crowder District Park Polliwogs Mini Camps 4709 Ten Ten Rd., Apex wakegov.com/parks/crowder; 919-662-2850 Daniel Dhers Action Sports Complex 171 Tradition Trail, Ste. 207, Holly Springs ddasc.com; 919-557-8088 Dead Broke Horse Farm 6921 Wildlife Trail, Raleigh deadbrokehorsefarm.com; 919-596-8975 Design Camp at North Carolina State University College of Design 50 Pullen Rd., Raleigh design.ncsu.edu/designcamp; 919-513-8152 Discovery Tech« 11000 Lake Grove Blvd., Morrisville discoverycdtech.com; 919-234-0735 Ages 6-12. June 18-Aug. 10, 8:45 a.m.-4 p.m., extended care available.

See website for fees. Technologybased camps include video game design, Minecraft, 3-D printing, LEGO robotics, programming, movie making and more.

Durham School for Ballet and the Performing Arts 608 N. Duke St., Durham durhamschoolforballet.com/ camps.htm; 919-680-4363 eNeRGy Dance 5400 Atlantic Springs Rd., Raleigh energykidz.net; 919-790-9400

Enso Movement 3200-115 Wellington Ct., Raleigh ensomovement.com; 919-977-8698

Cooking, games and more. Kids stir up fun each day with cooking, arts and crafts, food science, etiquette, nutrition and more.

Falls River Music 10930 Raven Ridge Rd., Raleigh fallsrivermusic.com; 919-637-0526

Giggles Drop-in Childcare of Cary« 267 Grande Heights Dr., Cary gigglesdaycareinc.com/locations/ raleigh-nc/summer-camp; 919-468-1001 Ages 5-12. June 12-Aug. 23, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. $175-$195/week. Arts and crafts, field trips, games and outdoor play.

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – Cary Parkside« 1128 Parkside Main St., Cary flourpowerstudios.com; 919-780-2931 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $299/week. Academics, arts and crafts, cooking and games. Little foodies create snacks and lunch.

All supplies provided for a week of food and fun.

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – Holly Springs« 244 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs flourpowerstudios.com; 919-607-4288 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., extended care available. $299/week. Food science, crafts and outdoor play time. Kids learn lifelong science, reading and math skills.

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – Falls River« 10511 Shadowlawn Dr., Ste. 117, Raleigh flourpowerstudios.com; 919-889-2598 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $299/week.

Cooking, games and more. Kids stir up fun each day with cooking, arts and crafts, food science, etiquette, nutrition and more.

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – North Hills« 201 Park at North Hills St., Raleigh flourpowerstudios.com; 919-889-7257 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $299/week.

Giggles Drop-in Childcare of Raleigh« 6504 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh gigglesdaycareinc.com/locations/ raleigh-nc/summer-camp; 919-438-1126 Ages 5-12. June 12-Aug. 23, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. $175-$195/week. Arts and crafts, field trips, games and nature activities.

GRACE Summer Camps 801 Buck Jones Rd., Raleigh gracechristian.net/school-life/ summer-camp; 919-747-2020 Granite Falls Swim and Athletic Club 800 Granite Falls Blvd., Rolesville granitefallsclub.com; 919-562-8895 Greystone Baptist Preschool 7509 Lead Mine Rd., Raleigh greystonechurch.org; 919-870-0040 Gymcarolina Gymnastics Camps 9321 Leesville Rd., Raleigh gymcarolina.com; 919-848-7988 Halle Cultural Center Summer Camps 237 N. Salem St., Apex apexnc.org/454/Halle-Cultural-ArtsCenter; 919-249-1120 Historic Oak View County Park 4028 Carya Dr., Raleigh wakegov.com/parks/oakview; 919-250-1013

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D AY C A M P S Historic Yates Mill County Park Camps 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill; 919-856-6675

Just Kidding Around Summer Day Camp at Hux Family Farm 1923 Shaw Rd., Durham eventbrite.com/e/just-kiddingaround-summer-day-camp-2018whole-week-tickets-41322058389; 919-666-7258

Horses for Hope 2909 Banks Rd., Raleigh horsesforhope.org; 919-270-4832

Karate International of Raleigh 4720 Hargrove Rd., Raleigh raleighkarate.com/summer-camps/ camp-info; 919-876-8898

Infinity Ballet Conservatory and Theatre 3462 Apex Peakway, Apex infinityballet.com; 919-303-1105

Kiddie Academy of Holly Springs 150 Rosewood Centre Dr., Holly Springs kiddieacademy.com/academies/ holly-springs/programs/summercamp; 919-367-0088

JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University 4415 Beryl Rd., Raleigh jcra.ncsu.edu; 919-513-7011 JellyCamps Summer Camp Program 1120 Buck Jones Rd., Raleigh skatejellybeans.com/skate-camp-cary; 919-234-1069

Kids R Kids Cary Learning Academy« 150 Towne Village Dr., Cary kidsrkidscary.com; 919-467-1112 Summer and track-out camps feature meals, field trips, STEM, arts and crafts, sports, a water park, karaoke and Wii; 7 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.;

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2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

low ratios and experienced teachers; offers before- and after-school care with transportation.

Kids R Kids Morrisville Learning Academy« 6010 McCrimmon Pkwy., Morrisville kidsrkidscary.com; 919-460-1600 Experienced counselors; camps for ages 5-12. 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Field trips, meals, water park, STEAM, sports and game zone.

L’ecole - French school of Raleigh 5510 Munford Rd., Raleigh lecoleraleigh.org/other-activities/ camps; 919-790-1219 Grades K-5 and weekly summer camps for preschoolers. French language immersion. Crafts, stories, games, sports, songs, field trips and more. No French language experience necessary.

Learn to Play Music: Progressive Music Center 2720 Godley Lane, Raleigh

raleighmusiclessons.com; 919-596-1687 Learn to Play Music: Progressive Music Center 1839 S. Main St., Ste. 344, Wake Forest raleighmusiclessons.com; 919-453-1688 Little Guru Kids Yoga 215 Glenwood Ave., Ste. A, Raleigh littlegurukidsyoga.com; 919-720-4921 Lucy Daniels Center 9003 Weston Pkwy., Cary lucydanielscenter.org; 919-677-1459 Maker Camp Chapel Hill 601 Meadowmont Lane, Chapel Hill makercampch.com; 919-544-5858 Marbles Kids Museum 201 E. Hargett St., Raleigh marbleskidsmuseum.org/ schoolsoutcamps; 919-857-1040

D AY C A M P S

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D AY C A M P S Master Chang’s Martial Arts 9600 Strickland Rd., Raleigh masterchangtkd.com; 919-232-9494

Mindspire Discovery Camps for Gifted Middle School Students 1150 S.E. Maynard Rd., Cary 919-335-8378

Meredith College High School Writing Workshop 3800 Hillsborough St., Raleigh meredith.edu/english/youngwriters-camp; 919-413-0544

NetSports 3717 Davis Dr., Morrisville netsportsnc.com; 919-319-9910

Meredith College Young Writers’ Camp 3800 Hillsborough St., Raleigh meredith.edu; 919-760-8507 Millbrook Baptist Preschool 1519 E. Millbrook Rd., Raleigh millbrookbaptistchurch.org; 919-876-4030 Ages 1-5. June 4-Aug. 17, 9 a.m.1 p.m. $150/three days per week for ages 1-2; $190/five days per week for ages 3-5. Academics, arts and crafts, music, outdoor play and more.

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NC Elite Volleyball 3717 Davis Dr., Morrisville ncelitevb.org; 336-583-5823 North Carolina 4-H Camps« 520 Brickhaven Dr., Raleigh nc4hcamps.org; 919-515-8483 Improve communication skills and fitness, and learn about sciences, global diversity, managing resources and more.

North Carolina Museum of Art Summer Camps 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh ncartmuseum.org/summercamp; 919-715-5923

2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences 11 W. Jones St., Raleigh naturalsciences.org/calendar/ summer-camps; 919-707-9889 N.C. State University Club 4200 Hillsborough St., Raleigh ncsuclub.com; 919-828-0308 North Carolina Theatre Conservatory Summer Intensive Week 3043 Barrow Dr., Raleigh nctheatre.com/page/summerprograms; 919-855-0015 Notasium Cary 1000 Ryan Rd., Cary notasium.com; 919-230-9321 Piedmont Wildlife Center at Umstead Park 8801 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh piedmontwildlifecenter.org; 919-489-0900

Polar Ice House Camp Chillin 1839 S. Main St., Wake Forest polaricehouse.com; 919-453-1500 Pro 3:5 Sports Academy 3201 Northside Dr., Ste. 119, Raleigh pro35sports.com; 919-438-2144 Raleigh Art Studio 2009 Biddestone Ct., Raleigh raleighartstudio.com; 919-758-9182 Raleigh Little Theatre 301 Pogue St., Raleigh raleighlittletheatre.org/education; 919-821-4579 Ages 4-18. See website for fees and sessions. Theatrical training. Oneand two-week camps focus on the process of creating theater through creative play and ensemblebuilding. Teen intensives available.

Raleigh Moravian Preschool 1816 Ridge Rd., Raleigh raleighmoravianpreschool.org; 919-616-8873

D AY C A M P S

Summer Camps Join the fun and explore!

Half day morning • Half day afternoon • Full day

Camps starting June 11 Registration begins January 26 Convenient Midtown Location Before and after camp care available

CAMPS • Art • Sports • 3D Printing • Building • Engineering • Cake Decorating • Writing • Science …and more

4523 Six Forks Road, Raleigh - 919.787.3011 - www.sttimothys.org

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D AY C A M P S

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D AY C A M P S Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Various locations in Raleigh raleighnc.gov/parks/content/ parksrec/articles/summercamps.html; 919-996-4800 Ages 3-17. See website for fees and sessions. Choose from traditional, specialty and specialized recreation camps.

Ravenscroft School 7409 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh ravenscroft.org; 919-847-0900 Resurrection Summer Camp 100 Lochmere Dr., Cary rlscary.org; 919-851-7270 Right On Track 2137 Ten Ten Rd., Apex rightontrackkids.com; 919-362-1619 Saint Raphael Preschool Summer Camp Programs 5801 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh straphaelpreschool.org; 919-865-5728 School of Rock Cary 1311 N.W. Maynard Rd., Cary locations.schoolofrock.com/cary; 919-439-6086 Science Fun For Everyone 111 James Jackson Ave., Cary sciencefun.org; 919-460-5800 SMILE (Science and Math Interactive Learning Experience) Camp« 6301 Hillsborough St., Raleigh smilecamp.org; 919-307-7836 Ages 7-18. See website for fees and sessions. STEAM activities and experiments, computers and more.

Spanish for Fun! – Wake Forest 222 Capcom Ave., Wake Forest spanishforfun.com; 919-883-2061

8000 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh daycare-raleigh-nc.spanishforfun. com; 919-881-1160

Time to Shine Preschool 1867 Lake Pine Dr., Cary timetoshinepreschool.com; 919-291-3802

2201 Double M Farm Rd., Knightdale valentinefieldsnc.com;

Virtual Reality Camps at Learning Lab 360 Middle Creek Community Center, 123 Middle Creek Park Ave., Apex

Sports Day Camp at WakeMed Soccer Park 201 Soccer Park Dr., Cary townofcary.org; 919-858-0464 St. Francis of Assisi Preschool 11401 Leesville Rd., Raleigh preschoolatstfrancis.com/ summercamp; 919-847-8205 St. David’s School 3400 White Oak Rd., Raleigh 919-782-3331 Ages 4-18; June 4-Aug. 3, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Academics, basketball, football, soccer and chess.

St. Timothy’s Lower School 4523 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh sttimothys.org; 919-791-3056 Ages 5 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Academics, arts and crafts, computers, performing arts, sports and more.

Stage Door Dance Productions 2720 Godley Lane, Ste. 101, Raleigh stagedoordance.com; 919-397-1925 Summer at Saint Mary’s School 900 Hillsborough St., Raleigh sms.edu/our-programs/summersaint-marys; 919-424-4028 Rising grades K-12. See website for fees and sessions, extended

Town of Apex Various locations in Apex apm.activecommunities.com/ apexparksrecculres; 919-249-3402 Town of Cary Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Summer and Track-Out Camps« Various locations in Cary townofcary.org; 919-469-4061 Ages 5 and older. See website for fees, locations and sessions.

Academics, outdoor and nature activities, sports, games and more.

Town of Holly Springs Parks and Recreation Various locations in Holly Springs hollyspringnc.us; 919-567-4000 Triangle Camps For Kids 6175 Old Jenks Rd., Apex sites.google.com/site/ trianglecampsforkids; 919-337-7555

more. Episcopal affiliation.

Developmental Disabilities 739 Chappell Dr., Raleigh tammylynncenter.org; 919-755-6837

919-771-1295 Wake Tech Summer Camps 9101 Fayetteville Rd., Raleigh waketech.edu/summer-camps; 919-866-5000 Ages 11-17. See website for fees and sessions, $160-$300.

Engineering, robotics, photography, digital videography, cake decorating and more.

Warrior Tech OCR« 220-G Dominion Dr., Morrisville warriortechocr.com; 919-230-1992 See website for fees and sessions.

Ninja Warrior-based summer and track-out camps; week-long sessions and single days. Also offers open rig times, classes and group events.

William Peace University 15 E. Peace St., Raleigh peace.edu/summercamps; 919-508-2080

Triangle Table Tennis 2900 Perimeter Park Dr., Morrisville triangletabletennis.com/programsand-events/camps; 919-388-0272

919-535-8695

care available. Academics, fine arts, basketball, performing arts and

learninglab360.com;

Triangle Rowing Club 6404 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh trianglerowing.org/summer-camps; 919-840-8101

Wine & Design 483 James Jackson Ave., Cary wineanddesign.com/locations/cary;

Wolfpack Golf School 3000 Ballybunion Way, Raleigh wolfpackgolfschools.com;

Triangle Volleyball Club 9301 Globe Center Dr., Ste. 140, Morrisville trianglevolleyball.org; 919-544-9400

Tammy Lynn Center for Spanish for Fun! – Infant and Toddler Center 5600 Duraleigh Rd., Raleigh spanishforfun.com; 919-881-1695

Valentine Fields Horse Camp

919-624-1794 Spanish for Fun! – Glenwood

sports, foreign language, Spanish for Fun! – Cary 100 Endeavor Way, Cary spanishforfun.com; 919-677-7114

Techsplorers 14460 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh techsplorers.com; 919-901-1197

919-846-1536 Wynns Family Psychology Social Skills and Study Skills Camps - Cary

Tutu School Raleigh 709 Tucker St., Raleigh tutuschool.com/raleigh/camp; 919-792-8032

130 Preston Executive Dr., Cary wynnsfamilypsychology.com; 919-467-7777

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D AY C A M P S Wynns Family Psychology Social Skills and Study Skills Camps - Raleigh Oakmark Office Center, 9207 Baileywick Rd., Raleigh wynnsfamilypsychology.com; 919-467-7777 YMCA Camp Kanata« 13524 Camp Kanata Rd., Wake Forest campkanata.org; 919-556-2661 Ages 6-15. See website for fees and sessions, financial aid available.

Traditional, coed program offering archery, hiking, swimming, arts, and water activities on a 15-acre lake.

Zaniac« 1206 Parkside Main St., Cary zaniaclearning.com/parkside/ programs; 919-342-8536 Grades K-8. See website for fees and sessions. Camps in STEM, chess, Minecraft, fashion design, computer programming and more.

OTHER COUNTIES Bow to Stern Boating 290 Blackwell Point Loop Rd., Oriental bowtosternboating.com; 252-474-6000 Carolina Tiger Rescue Summer Camp 1940 Hanks Chapel Rd 1940 Hanks Chapel Rd., Pittsboro carolinatigerrescue.org; 919-542-4684 Clayton Youth Theater: Backstage Pass Theater Camp 111 E. Second St., Clayton claytonyouththeater.com; 919-553-1737 Jordan Lake Boating Camp 2092 Martha's Chapel Rd., Apex jordanlakeboatingcamp.com; 919-585-1488 Kids R Kids Clayton 307 Tew Ct., Clayton kidsrkidsclayton.com; 919-550-8864

North Carolina 4-H Camps« 520 Brickhaven Dr., Raleigh nc4hcamps.org; 919-515-8483 Improve communication skills and fitness, and learn about sciences, global diversity, managing resources and more.

wbsurfcamp.com; 910-256-7873 Ages 6-17, June-Aug. See website for fees and sessions, financial aid available. Surfing instruction. Camps cultivate a love and respect for the ocean by building confidence and developing character.

Sun Star Farm Camp 2092 Martha's Chapel Rd., Apex sunstarfarmchildrensnursery.com; 919-585-1488

Yoga + Art + Exploration Camp 1600 Briar Chapel Pkwy., Chapel Hill 919-780-3516

Theater Intensive at Pittsboro Youth Theater 18 E. Salisbury St., Pittsboro pittsboroyouththeater.com; 919-533-6997

Yoga and Arts Camp 184 East St., Pittsboro clients.mindbodyonline.com; 919-533-7935

Tinkering School NC 2092 Martha's Chapel Rd., Apex nctinkeringschool.com; 919-585-1488 WB Surf Camp« 7213 Ogden Business Lane, Wilmington

Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department

2018 SummerCamps

919-996- 4800 l parks.raleighnc.gov

Online Camp Registration begins March 5, 2018

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2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

LOOKING FOR

CAMPS? Visit our Camp Directory for hundreds of summer, track-out and residential options.

carolinaparent.com/cp/camp-listings

A vibrant summer awaits!

Where teens can explore interests and “try a career on for size!â€? • Biotech • Game Design • Robotics • Web Design • Drama • Photoshop • Public Safety Careers • and more!

summercamps.waketech.edu

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23

TRACKOUT CAMPS

TRACK-OUT CAMPS The Triangle offers families a wide variety of track-out camp choice for kids who attend year-round schools. Browse our extensive list here and find even more information online at carolinaparent.com/cp/camp-listings.

NOTE: A brief description is included for camps advertising in this issue of Carolina Parent, as well as camps attending our 2018 Summer, Track-Out and Residential Camp Fair on Feb. 18, noon-4 p.m., at Embassy Suites in Cary. Camp exhibitors also have a star beside their names.

MULTIPLE COUNTIES

ORANGE COUNTY

IMACS« 5738 Dillard Dr., Cary imacs.org; 919-786-0246 Full-day camp for grades 3-8 and individual classes for grades 1-10. See website for fees and sessions. Logic puzzles, computer programming, virtual robotics and electronics.

3D Visuals Camp 630 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill 3dvisualsllc.com; 919-883-4876

919-297-8366 STEM /STEAM programs for ages 4-14: summer and track-out camps, afterschool, Saturday and evening classes.

Ages 7 and older. See website for fees and sessions, extended care available.

Rock climbing, adventure, teambuilding and more.

Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center 4300 Camp Chestnut Ridge Rd., Efland campchestnutridge.org; 919-304-2178

BounceU of Apex Create and Bounce Technology Camp 3419 Apex Peakway, Apex bounceu.com/apex-nc; 919-303-3368

Kramden Institute: Hands-On Technology Camps 4915 Prospectus Dr., Durham kramden.org/camps; 919-293-1133

New Hope Camp and Conference Center« 4805 NC 86 S., Hillsborough newhopeccc.org; 919-942-4716 Grades K-12. See website for fees and sessions, June 11-Aug. 10. Swimming, hiking, nature trails, sports, art activities and more.

Brain Camp at LearningRx 8305 Six Forks Rd., Ste. 207, Raleigh 919-232-0090

Climbing Camp at Triangle Rock Club – North Raleigh« 6022 Duraleigh Rd., Raleigh trianglerockclub.com/about/locations/ north-raleigh; 919-803-5534 Ages 7 and older. See website for fees and sessions, extended care available.

Rock climbing, adventure, teambuilding and more.

Schoolhouse of Wonder« 5101-B N. Roxboro Rd., Durham schoolhouseofwonder.org; 919-477-2116 Ages 5-17. May 29-Aug. 14, 8:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m., feature nature-based, outdoor day camps for ages 5-12.

Leadership training opportunities for ages 13-17. See website for fees and discounts. Locations in Durham, Wake and Orange counties. Track-out camps and Discovery Days January-May feature archery, arts and crafts, environmental education, camping/hiking, campfire cooking, music, outdoor adventures, river exploration, storytelling and more.

YMCA of the Triangle« 801 Corporate Center Dr., Raleigh ymcatriangle.org/programs-andservices/camps; 919-719-9989 Ages 3 and older. See website for fees and sessions. Full- and half-day camps throughout the Triangle region. Nature activities, sports and more.

Progression Climbing 1713 Legion Rd., Chapel Hill climbprogression.com/programs.html; 919-904-7217

WAKE COUNTY Active Tracks Camps 116 Quantum St., Holly Springs activetrackscamp.com; 919-346-4696 Arts Academy of Apex 612 Hwy. 751, Apex artsacademyofapex.com; 919-323-2219 Biomedicine, Bots, Computing & Engineering - STEM for Kids«

DURHAM COUNTY

7610 Falls of the Neuse Rd., Raleigh stemforkids.net/t/nctriangle; 919-297-8366 STEM /STEAM programs for ages 4-14; summer and track-out camps, afterschool, Saturday and evening classes.

Piedmont Wildlife Center at Leigh Farm Park 364 Leigh Farm Rd., Durham piedmontwildlifecenter.org; 919-489-0900

Biomedicine, Bots, Computing & Engineering – STEM for Kids« 112- C Pheasant Wood Ct., Morrisville stemforkids.net/t/nctriangle;

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2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

Bright Horizons at Raleigh Corporate Center 800 Corporate Center Dr., Raleigh child-care-preschool.brighthorizons. com/nc/raleigh/rcc; 919-852-0509

The Clubhouse @ Bright Horizons« 2500 Highstone Rd., Cary child-care-preschool.brighthorizons. com/nc/cary/clubhouse; 919-380-2003

Camp Jellybeans 10701 Common Oaks Dr., Raleigh skate2jellybeans.com; 919-562-2326

CraZBrain Track-Out Camps 800 Park Offices Dr., RTP crazbrain.com; 919-357-2200

Camp MusArt 616 W. Chatham St., Apex campmusart.com; 919-267-5509

Daniel Dhers Action Sports Complex 171 Tradition Trail, Ste. 207, Holly Springs ddasc.com; 919-557-8088

Cary Ice House 1410 Buck Jones Rd., Cary caryicehouse.com; 919-460-2756 Changing Tomorrow Farm 6312 Cass Holt Rd., Holly Springs changingtomorrowfarm.com; 919-762-7002 Cirque de Vol 300-40 W. Hargett St., Raleigh cirquedevol.com; 919-615-2484 Climbing Camp at Triangle Rock Club – Morrisville« 102 Pheasant Wood Ct., Morrisville trianglerockclub.com/about/locations/ morrisville; 919-463-7625

Dead Broke Horse Farm 6921 Wildlife Trail, Raleigh deadbrokehorsefarm.com; 919-596-8975 Enso Movement 3200-115 Wellington Ct., Raleigh ensomovement.com; 919-977-8698 Gamesturz 10501 Shadowlawn Dr., Raleigh gamesturz.com; 919-322-1753 Happy Trails Farm 704 Dogwood Hill Lane, Wake Forest happytrailsfarm.us; 919-528-7968

me

welco

to

CFS

Camelot Academy Weekly Summer Sessions Edu-Ventures (Ages 6-12)

Summer Programs

Weekly Sessions • Half & Full Day

Daily Academics

Reading • Writing • Math

Daily Field Trips

Weekly Adventure Themes

Explorations (Ages 5-18) Weekly Sessions • Half & Full Day

Be Innovative & Creative Register now for ages 4-18 Nature Lab • Forensics • Entrepreneurship Sports • Tech • Cooking Digital, Visual, and Performing Arts

Carolina Friends School www.cfsnc.org/summer

High School Credits!

Expand Your World!

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, Feb. 24th, 1-3 pm

(919) 688-3040

809 Proctor St. • Durham, NC 27707 For more information, visit us online at

www.camelotacademy.org

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ENJOY YOUR

18 June 27, y to Jul 8 0 2 1

& ential Resid Camps y Da

@ Raleigh, N.C.

919-424-4028 • WWW.SMS.EDU/SUMMER@SAINTMARYS

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2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

TRACKOUT CAMPS Falls River Music 10930 Raven Ridge Rd., Raleigh fallsrivermusic.com; 919-637-0526

Gymcarolina Gymnastics Camps 9321 Leesville Rd., Raleigh gymcarolina.com; 919-848-7988

Right On Track 2137 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex rightontrackkids.com; 919-362-1619

Valentine Fields Horse Camp 2201 Double M Farm Rd., Knightdale valentinefieldsnc.com; 919-624-1794

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – Cary Parkside« 1128 Parkside Main St., Cary flourpowerstudios.com; 919-780-2931 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $299/week.

Academics, arts and crafts, cooking and games. Little foodies create their own snacks and lunch. All supplies provided for a week of food, fun and memories.

Happy Trails Farm 704 Dogwood Hill Lane, Wake Forest happytrailsfarm.us; 919-528-7968

Science Fun For Everyone 111 James Jackson Ave., Cary sciencefun.org; 919-460-5800

Virtual Reality Camps at Learning Lab 360 Middle Creek Community Center, Apex 919-771-1295

Kids R Kids Cary Learning Academy« 150 Towne Village Dr., Cary kidsrkidscary.com; 919-467-1112 Summer and track-out camps feature meals, field trips, STEM, arts and crafts, sports, a water park, karaoke and Wii; 7 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.; low ratios and experienced teachers; offers before- and after-school care with transportation.

The Sewing Room of Garner 613 Poole Dr., Garner garnersewingroom.com; 919-696-8151

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – Holly Springs« 244 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs flourpowerstudios.com; 919-607-4288 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., extended care available. $299/week. Food science, crafts and outdoor play time. Kids learn lifelong skills including science, reading and math in a fun environment.

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – Falls River« 10511 Shadowlawn Dr., Ste. 117, Raleigh flourpowerstudios.com/default.aspx; 919-889-2598 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $299/wk.

Cooking, games and more. Kids stir up fun each day with cooking, arts and crafts, food science, etiquette, nutrition and more.

Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios – North Hills« 201 Park at North Hills St., Raleigh flourpowerstudios.com; 919-889-7257 Ages 5-12. See website for fees and sessions, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $299/wk.

Cooking, games and more. Kids stir up fun each day with cooking, arts and crafts, food science, etiquette, nutrition and more.

Granite Falls Swim and Athletic Club 800 Granite Falls Blvd., Rolesville granitefallsclub.com; 919-562-8895

Kids R Kids Morrisville Learning Academy« 6010 McCrimmon Pkwy., Morrisville kidsrkidscary.com; 919-460-1600 Experienced counselors, Awesome camps for ages 5-12. 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Field trips, meals, water park, STEAM, sports and game zone.

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences 11 W. Jones St., Raleigh naturalsciences.org/calendar/summercamps; 919-707-9889 Piedmont Wildlife Center at Umstead Park 8801 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh piedmontwildlifecenter.org; 919-489-0900 Polar Ice House Camp Chillin 1839 S. Main St., Wake Forest polaricehouse.com; 919-453-1500 Pro 3:5 Sports Academy 3201 Northside Dr., Suite 119Raleigh pro35sports.com; 919-438-2144 Raleigh Area Children's Theatre 7319 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh raleighact.com; 919-801-7730 Rockstar Cheer & Dance 2161 E. Williams St., Apex RockstarHollysprings.com; 919-346-7300

SMILE (Science and Math Interactive Learning Experience) Camp« 6301 Hillsborough St., Raleigh smilecamp.org; 919-307-7836 Ages 7-18. See website for fees and sessions. STEAM activities and experiments, computers and more. theCoderSchool Coding Camp 201 Davis Grove Circle, Ste. 105Cary thecoderschool.com/cary; 919-931-2033 theCoderSchool Coding Camp 13200 Strickland Rd., Raleigh thecoderschool.com/raleigh; 919-390-1708 Town of Apex Various locations in Apex apm.activecommunities.com/ apexparksrecculres; 919-249-3402 Town of Cary Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Summer and Trck-Out Camps« Various locations in Cary townofcary.org; 919-469-4061 Ages 5 and older. See website for fees, locations and sessions. Academics, outdoor and nature activities, sports, games and more.

Warrior Tech OCR« 220-G Dominion Dr., Morrisville warriortechocr.com; 919-230-1992 See website for fees and sessions. Ninja Warrior-based summer and track-out camps; week-long sessions and single days. Also offers open rig times, classes and group events.

Your Best Shot Leadership Academy 8320 Litchford Rd., Ste. 110-112, Raleigh yourbestshotllc.com; 919-218-0829 Zaniac« 1206 Parkside Main St., Cary zaniaclearning.com/parkside/programs; 919-342-8536 Grades K-8. See website for fees and sessions. Camps in STEM, chess, Minecraft, fashion design, computer programming and more.

OTHER COUNTIES Jordan Lake Boating Camp 2092 Martha's Chapel Rd., Apex jordanlakeboatingcamp.com; 919-585-1488 Sun Star Farm Camp 2092 Martha's Chapel Rd., Apex sunstarfarmchildrensnursery.com; 919-585-1488 Tinkering School NC 2092 Martha's Chapel Rd., Apex nctinkeringschool.com; 919-585-1488

Town of Holly Springs Parks and Recreation Various locations in Holly Springs hollyspringnc.us; 919-567-4000 Triangle Camps For Kids 6175 Old Jenks Rd., Apex sites.google.com/site/ trianglecampsforkids; 919-337-7555 carolinaparent.com | 2018 CAMP GUIDE

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Many summer camps, including Schoolhouse of Wonder, located in the Triangle area, offer leadership programs for teens seeking new challenges.

Photo courtesy of Schoolhouse of Wonder

Middle School Camps Discovering passions while building life skills

BY LIZ ROTHAUS BERTRAND

I

n middle school, kids often discover their extracurricular passions. From the arts and sports to robotics and outdoor adventure, specialized summer camp options enable middle schoolers to dive into an activity they love without school-year obligations. While refining their abilities or taking on new challenges at camp, middle schoolers also develop important skills that may help them later in life in unexpected ways.

THE GROUP EFFECT Camps that draw tweens and teens who share similar passions open up opportunities for collaboration and communication.

George Ramsay and Dean Williams, owners of Bold Music launched their summer Studio

28 26

Recording and Songwriting Camp to inspire young musicians.

Ramsay says many students who take traditional music lessons are technically competent but lack the ability to play with others.

“What makes music exciting is feeding off each other,” Ramsay says. “We want to encourage kids in middle school and high school to use their ability to play music … It’s also a tool that helps you interact with people and collaborate.”

By writing, recording and mixing original music together during the one-week intensive camps, kids learn the art of collaboration.

Learning to work as a team is also important at NC Elite Volleyball in Morrisville, a

2018 CAMP GUIDE carolinaparent.com FEBRUARY 2018 | |charlotteparent.com

club that provides year-round opportunities for young athletes to train and compete at a national and/or regional level.

“In a team environment you have to work with people that you didn’t choose to be with,” says Director of Operations Micholene Schumacher. While NC Elite Volleyball’s middle school camps focus on building skills to help players excel during tryouts, the club’s culture emphasizes other aspects of being a good team member, such as communicating effectively and encouraging teammates.

INDEPENDENT THINKING AND EXPLORATION In addition to collaboration, personalized learning is

an essential component of specialized camps. At TechTerra Education’s summer camps, located in various areas of the Triangle region, students explore the natural world using science, technology and maker-space activities. They can focus on what interests them the most.

“In schools, pursuing one’s passion and interest is not always the priority,” says TechTerra Education founder and CEO Susan Wells. “Here, it is.”

After 30 years of working in schools, Wells wanted her camps to be different. By keeping numbers small — 25 students per session with one instructor for every six students — TechTerra is able to offer a variety of stations the campers can rotate through during the day. Kids switch stations at regular intervals, using critical thinking and creativity to experiment with 3-D printing, robotics and more. Some campers choose to spend more time focused on a particular activity. Giving students control keeps learning “authentic and meaningful,” Wells says.

BUILDING CONFIDENCE Choosing a camp organized by ability and age ensures middle schoolers are challenged and supported while trying new things. This can motivate them and help them build confidence.

Bold Music limits the number of participants in each of its sessions to ensure that everyone has enough time to contribute and shine.

“Middle school can be a little bit challenging with their social development,” Ramsay says. “Getting kids together in a small setting — eight

DEVELOPING LEADERS Many camps offer leadership programs for teens who are seeking a new challenge or their first professional experience. While counselor-in-training programs are widely available for high schoolers, some organizations extend the opportunity to older middle school-aged kids, too. Applications are typically due before March.

“Making the change from a camper at age 12 to a counselorin-training at age 13 can be quite a challenging transition if they have been a camper for many years,” says Wendy Tonker of Schoolhouse of Wonder, a naturebased, outdoor day camp with locations in the Triangle area.

kids max — really helps them develop their confidence.”

Kids who participate yearround in an activity are likely to see faster improvement and skill growth than those who only do it for part of the year.

Schumacher cautions parents, however, to let their children’s interest level guide the intensity of their participation.

“A lot of times parents want it more than their kids do and that makes me sad,” she says.

REAL LIFE SKILLS A great camp experience can be transformative for teens, making an impact that extends beyond the program’s specific subject, sport or theme. When middle schoolers choose a specialized camp, they are exposed to other educational aspects of the experience.

Wells knows most TechTerra campers will not become engineers, but she believes it’s beneficial for all kids

At Schoolhouse of Wonder, staff mentors help participants develop their leadership style. As a counselor-in-training assumes new responsibilities, he or she builds self-confidence and starts seeing his or her position as a role model, Tonker says.

They also serve as invaluable resources to full-time staff. Since many are former campers, they provide insight into what makes the camp special and why they choose to come back each year.

“Some of these kids who have not perceived themselves to be leaders anywhere else can find a place here,” Tonker says.

to learn to code, have access to technology and understand how the digital and natural worlds intersect. They need this knowledge to make sound ethical decisions as 21stcentury citizens and consumers, and they may not have the opportunity to learn how to do this in school, Wells says.

At NC Elite Volleyball, camp participants learn their actions have real consequences.

Developing simple habits like “shagging” (collecting) volleyballs without being asked, arriving first to the gym to help set up the nets and treating others with respect can play a critical role in coaches’ selections of players.

“Everything that they learn in volleyball can be transitioned to real life, which is one of my favorite things,” Schumacher says.

Liz Rothaus Bertrand is a freelance writer who lives in Charlotte with her husband and two sons, ages 5 and 8.

Dip into

Camp at Duke Gardens for K-8

See dates, weekly themes and more at

gardens.duke.edu/learn/camp

carolinaparent.com CAMP GUIDE charlotteparent.com| 2018 | FEBRUARY 2018

29 27

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS Throughout North Carolina and nearby states, you’ll find an extensive selection of residential camps. Browse our list here and find even more information online at carolinaparent.com/cp/camp-listings.

NOTE: A brief description is included for camps advertising in this issue of Carolina Parent, as well as camps attending our 2018 Summer, Track-Out and Residential Camp Fair on Feb. 18, noon-4 p.m., at Embassy Suites in Cary. Camp exhibitors also have a star beside their names.

MULTIPLE COUNTIES Girl Scouts - North Carolina Coastal Pines Various locations across the state nccoastalpines.org; 800-284-4475

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences 11 W. Jones St., Raleigh naturalsciences.org/calendar/ summer-camps; 919-707-9889

iD Tech Camps and iD Teen Tech Academies Various Triangle locations idtech.com; 888-709-8324

Girls in Science Summer Ed-Venture Blue Jay Point County Park, Raleigh naturalsciences.org/learn/girls-inscience-summer; 919-707-9951

DURHAM COUNTY

The Shelton Challenge NCSU, Raleigh sheltonleadership.ncsu.edu/youthshelton-challenge; 919-513-0148

American Dance Festival's Summer Dance Camps 715 Broad St., Durham americandancefestival.org/studios/ dancestudios/camps; 919-684-6402 Duke Youth Programs 104 E. Campus Union Dr., Durham learnmore.duke.edu/youth; 919-684-6259 Middle and high school grades.

Writing, science, math, computers, leadership and pre-college. Camps held at Duke University.

North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Summer Accelerator 1219 Broad St., Durham ncssm.edu/summer-programs/ accelerator; 919-416-2969

ORANGE COUNTY New Hope Camp and Conference Center« 4805 NC 86 S., Hillsborough newhopeccc.org; 919-942-4716 Grades K-12. See website for fees and sessions, June 11-Aug. 10. Swimming, hiking, trails, sports, art and more.

WAKE COUNTY Design Camp at North Carolina State University College of Design 50 Pullen Rd., Raleigh design.ncsu.edu/designcamp; 919-513-8152

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YMCA Camp Kanata« 13524 Camp Kanata Rd., Wake Forest campkanata.org; 919-556-2661 Ages 6-15. See website for fees and weekly sessions, financial aid available. Traditional, coed camp program offering archery, hiking, swimming, creative arts, and water activities on a 15-acre lake.

OUTSIDE OF THE TRIANGLE AstroCamp Virginia and Camp Motorsport« 8144 Mount Laurel Rd., Clover, Virginia astrocamp.org; 888-836-1212 AstroCamp (astrocamp.org) for ages 8-14. See website for fees and sessions, June 24-Aug. 11. $1,400/ week. Astronomy, space exploration, physics and STEM subjects. Camp Motorsport (campmotorsport. org) for ages 9-17. See website for fees and sessions, June 24-Aug. 11. $1,400/wk. Activities include racing go karts and Baja 400 off-road buggies, swimming, boats and more.

Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Educational Center« 804 Cedar Lane, Reidsville, North Carolina bjpenn4h.org; 336-349-9445

2018 CAMP GUIDE | carolinaparent.com

Camp Albemarle« 156 Albemarle Dr., Newport, North Carolina campalbemarle.org; 252-726-4848 Ages 7-17. June 3-Aug. 10, weekly camps begins on Sundays at 3 p.m. and end on Fridays at 4 p.m. Fees vary, financial aid available. Nature activities, arts and crafts, horseback riding, sailing, tree climbing, swimming and more.

Camp Canaan 3111 Sand Island Rd., Rock Hill, South Carolina campcanaan.org; 803-327-6932 Camp Cedar Cliff« P.O. Box 9036, Asheville, North Carolina campcedarcliff.org; 828-450-3331 Grades 2-10. June 9-July 27. $380-$1,420/session; financial aid available. Activities include rock climbing, archery, rapelling, arts and crafts, and more. Children experience the outdoors while having a summer adventure.

Camp Cheerio 1430 Camp Cheerio Rd., Glade Valley, North Carolina campcheerio.org; 336-363-2604 Grades 2-10. See website for fees and sessions. Traditional camp activities.

Camp Ginger Cascades 200 Scout Rd., Lenoir, North Carolina camplikeagirl.org; 800-672-2148 Camp Glen Arden P.O. Box 7, Tuxedo, North Carolina campglenarden.com; 828-692-8362 Camp Hannon Adventure 391 Moorefield Memorial Hwy., Sunset, South Carolina adventuresummer.camp; 864-214-0115

Camp Harrison (YMCA)« 7901 NC 18 South, Boomer, North Carolina ymcacharlotte.org/camps/campharrison.aspx; 800-514-1417 Ages 6-16. See website for fees and sessions, June 8-Aug. 15. Water and land activities, performing arts, sports and games.

Camp Rockfish 226 Camp Rockfish Rd., Parkton, North Carolina camprockfish.org; 910-425-3529 Camp Rockmont for Boys 375 Lake Eden Rd., Black Mountain, North Carolina rockmont.com; 828-686-3885 Ages 6-16, all-boys. See website for fees and sessions. Nature and environmental activities, crafts, swimming and camping.

Camp Sewee 7407 Doar Rd., Awendaw, South Carolina seweesummer.camp; 843-212-2088 Camp Thunderbird (YMCA)« 1 Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, South Carolina ymcacharlotte.org/camps/campthunderbird.aspx; 704-716-4100 Ages 6-15. See website for fees and sessions. High ropes course, zip line, alpine tower, swimming and sailboats.

Camp Walkabout 171 Baylor School Rd., Chattanooga, Tennessee baylorschool.org/summer/overnightcamps/camp-walkabout/index.aspx; 423-267-5902 Camp Weaver (YMCA) 4924 Tapawingo Trail, Greensboro, North Carolina campweaver.org; 336-697-0525

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS Camp Wildlife 8001 M W Rickenbaker Rd., Summerton, South Carolina wildlifesummer.camp; 803-339-4497 Camps Kahdalea and Chosatonga 2500 Morgan Mill Rd., Brevard, North Carolina kahdalea.com; 828-884-6834 Christ School: Revolution Lacrosse Camp 500 Christ School Rd., Asheville, North Carolina hristschool.org/athletics/summercamps/revolution-lacrosse-camp; 828-684-6232 Eagle's Nest Camp« 43 Hart Rd., Pisgah Forest enf.org; 828-877-4349 See website for fees and sessions.

Eastern 4-H Center 100 N. Clover Way, Columbia, North Carolina eastern4hcenter.org; 252-797-4800 Millstone 4-H Camp« 1296 Mallard Dr., Ellerbe, North Carolina millstone4hcamp.com; 910-652-5905 See website for fees and sessions.

Sea Turtle Camp 7213 Odgen Business Lane, Ste. 214, Wilmington, North Carolina seaturtlecamp.com; 910-686-4611 SOAR Camp« 226 Soar Lane, Balsam, North Carolina soarnc.org; 828-456-3435 See website for fees and sessions.

SOAR provides fun and successful experiences so participants are able to gain greater awareness of strengths, and improve self-esteem and confidence.

UNCW Marine Quest 601 S. College Rd., Wilmington, North Carolina uncw.edu/marinequest/ summercamps.html; 910-962-2640 WB Surf Camp« 7213 Ogden Business Lane, Wilmington, North Carolina wbsurfcamp.com; 910-256-7873 Ages 6-17, June-Aug. See website for fees and sessions, financial aid available. Surfing instruction. Camps cultivate a love and respect for the ocean by building confidence and developing character.

Woodberry Forest School 898 Woodberry Forest Rd., Woodberry Forest, Virginia 540-672-3900 Ages 9 and older, all-boys. See website for fees and sessions. Sports, lacrosse, basketball and football.

YMCA Camp Hanes« 1225 Camp Hanes Rd., King, North Carolina camphanes.org; 336-983-3131 Ages 6-16; June 17-Aug. 3; $779/ session, financial aid available.

Helps campers be their best selves.

YMCA Camp Sea Gull 218 Sea Gull Landing, Arapahoe, North Carolina seagull-seafarer.org; 252-249-1111 YMCA Camp Seafarer 2744 Seafarer Rd., Arapahoe, North Carolina seagull-seafarer.org; 252-249-1212 YMCA Camp Silver Beach« 6272 YMCA Lane, Jamesville, Virginia seagull-seafarer.org; 252-249-1212 Ages 8-16. See website for fees and sessions. Land, water and evening activities including a zipline, archery, riflery, a giant swing and more set on 151 acres along Chesapeake Bay.

20% of all students learn differently.

Ages 6 weeks to 12 years Infant, Toddler and Preschool Program 5 STAR Program with a pleasant, safe and loving environment 7420 McCrimmon Pkwy, Cary, NC 27519 Childrenslighthouse.com/WestCary · 919-388-0470

For forty years, The Hill Center has been serving students with learning and attention differences in our half-day School Year program, tutoring offerings, and summer programs.

Contact us today to learn how Hill can help.

3200 Pickett Road | Durham, NC | 919.489.7464 admissions@hillcenter.org | www.hillcenter.org carolinaparent.com | 2018 CAMP GUIDE

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Chapel Hill Pediatrics

&Adolescents

Welcome NEW and Established Patients • Care from birth through college

•Complimentary “meet and greet” sessions • Same-day appointments • Comprehensive sports & camp physicals Appointment hours

8 am - 5 pm M-F All Locations

Walk in Availability: Chapel Hill Office:

7:15-7:50 am and 1-7 pm M-F; 9 am- 2 pm Sat-Sun

Durham Office: 7:15 -7:50 am M-F

Hillsborough Office: 8 - 8:30 am M-F

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MICHAEL JACKSON THUR, MAR 8 | 7:30PM MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH

A vocalist and full band join the Symphony to jam on “ABC,” “Rock with You,” “Beat It,” “Thriller,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and many more!

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ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

919-942-4173

Open daily including weekends and holidays.

Serving you in 3 locations: Chapel Hill: 205 Sage Road., Suite 100 Durham: 249 East NC Hwy 54, Suite 230 Hillsborough: 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 401

www.chapelhillpeds.com

JOIN US!

Carolina Parent Camp Fair • Feb. 18, 2018 • 12-4 p.m.

Embassy Suites • 201 Harrison Oaks Blvd., Cary, NC 27513

carolinaparent.com/camps Interested in being a vendor at the Carolina Parent 2018 Camp Fair? Contact a media consultant at Carolina Parent at 919-956-2430.