Carolina Parent March 2019

March 2019 • Free

6 Nonstop Flights to Family-Friendly Vacation Destinations HOUSE OR HOTEL? Determine the best accommodations for your crew

Flock to Sylvan Heights Bird Park for an Exotic Escape carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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ADVENTURE, MEMORIES AND LEARNING ARE JUST A FEW STOPS AWAY.

Come Celebrate your Smile with us!

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

CHECK OUT SOME OF THESE AWESOME DESTINATIONS AT ONE OF OUR 10 STOPS: SALISBURY N.C. TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM HIGH POINT ALL-A-FLUTTER BUTTERFLY FARM GREENSBORO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM BURLINGTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ALAMANCE COUNTY ROCKY MOUNT CHILDREN’S MUSEUM & SCIENCE CENTER

We Welcome New Patients!!

2711 North Duke Street Durham, NC 27704

919-220-1416

www.dukestreetsmiles.com

At the North Carolina Zoo, the world’s largest natural habitat wildlife park, amazing adventure is closer than you think

A S H E B O R O

WITHOUT THE SNEEZE, SPRING’S A BREEZE. Enjoy a care-free spring without the sneezing, watery eyes and other allergy symptoms getting in the way. At UNC Physicians Network, we offer a range of effective treatments from over-the-counter remedies to immunotherapy. We can help control your allergies, so you feel better.

Come visit us and breathe a sigh of relief all season long.

FIND A DOCTOR UNCPN.COM

VOLUME 31, NUMBER 3

CONTENTS MARCH 2019

14

FEATURES 14

6 NONSTOP FLIGHTS TO FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS Simplify air travel by flying direct to one of these fun cities

20 FLOCK TO SYLVAN HEIGHTS BIRD PARK See peacocks, flamingos and more at this avian paradise in Scotland Neck 24 VACATION ACCOMMODATIONS: HOUSE OR HOTEL? Discover the pros and cons of each

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24

34

10

33

36

42

IN EVERY ISSUE 5

March Online

COLUMNS

CALENDAR

6

Editor’s Note

29 Growing Up

42 Our Picks

48 Faces and Places

30 Oh, Baby!

43 Performances

FYI

31

8

Community

10 Education

Understanding Kids

44 Daily

32 Tech Talk 33 Father Figuring

11

Health

34 College Transitions

12

Style

36 Excursion

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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Discover your capable, confident Montessori child.

Visit us online to RSVP for one of our upcoming events or to book a tour. guidepostmontessori.com/spruce-tree (919) 825-1771 12600 Spruce Tree Way, Raleigh, NC 27614

Infant • Toddler • Preschool • Kindergarten GP010418

Spanish Immersion programs available!

GP-CarolinaParent (19-0104).indd 1

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

1/4/19 9:45 AM

ONLINE

TRAVEL TO EXPLORE

th and Discover 31 ways to enjoy the Nor South Carolina coasts.

-explorecarolinaparent.com/31-ways-to the-carolina-coasts

FIGHT OR FLIGHT?

Review 10 stress-free strategies for flying with kids. carolinaparent.com/10-secrets-for flying-with-children

TRAVEL TO LEARN

or near Plan a history-themed field trip in the Triangle. d-tripscarolinaparent.com/historic-fiel and-educational-getaways

TRAVEL TO CLIMB

WIN PRIZES

son City Hike beautiful trails in Asheville, Bry and Brevard. northcarolinaparent.com/3-must-visitcarolina-mountain-towns

facebook.com/ carolinaparent

rstock.com. Photos of paper Passport stamps image courtes y of nnnnae/Shutte

Enter to win four passes to Biltmore Estate in Asheville. carolinaparent.com/cp/contests

twitter.com/ carolinaparent

hearts courtes y of MsMaria/Shut terstock.com.

pinterest.com/ carolinaparent

instagram.com/ carolinaparent

Travel badge images courtes y of Oxy_gen/Shu

tterstock.com.

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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EDITOR'S NOTE

Plan Your Escape!

Y

morrismedianetwork.com

PUBLISHER

Katie Reeves · katie.reeves@morris.com

ou are holding in your hands our annual

EDITOR

travel issue. We strive to publish it at a

Beth Shugg · bshugg@carolinaparent.com

time when many families begin planning

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

summer — or even spring break — vacations.

Janice Lewine · jlewine@carolinaparent.com

The travel-themed features and columns inside

Sean W. Byrne · seanwbyrne.com

offer great tips for how you can make the most out of your family’s next big trip.

If you choose to vacation far enough away

ART DIRECTOR

Speaking of destinations offering unique experiences, Greenville, South Carolina, is a four-hour drive from the Triangle worth

that getting there requires an airplane, consider

a weekend getaway, thanks to the diverse

simplifying —and shortening — your family’s

attractions and experiences it offers. Learn

traveling experience by booking a nonstop

more in our Excursion column on page 36.

flight. Raleigh-Durham International Airport

Other columns this month focus on raising

offers direct access to a variety of cities across

grateful children (page 29), keeping your baby

the country. In “6 Nonstop Family-Friendly

moving while traveling (page 30), technology

Destinations” on page 14, explore what

tips for family travel (page 32), the importance

Philadelphia, Boston, San Diego, San Antonio,

of word choice (page 33) and why American

New Orleans and Denver have to offer families.

students might want to consider attending

Your next big decision is whether to rent a house or book a hotel room. Find out what one

college in the United Kingdom (page 34).

Browse our calendar section, which

grandmother and mom who travel together

begins on page 42, for fun things to do

with kids have to say about the pros and cons

locally with your family as spring breezes into

of each in “Vacation Accommodations: House

the Triangle, but you can also use this issue

or Hotel?” on page 24.

to plan your family’s escape to a new and

Just 86 miles northeast of Raleigh a bird paradise awaits. Carolina Parent Associate

exciting destination, where you’re sure to make precious vacation memories.

Editor Janice Lewine recently visited Sylvan Heights Bird Park in Scotland Neck and discovered more than 2,000 magnificent birds

DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Andy Smith · andy.smith@morris.com

DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Lauren Isaacs · lisaacs@carolinaparent.com

INTERN

Audrey Payne · apayne@carolinaparent.com

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Candi Griffin • cgriffin@carolinaparent.com Sue Chen • schen@carolinaparent.com

ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR Julianne Clune · julianne.clune@morris.com

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS PRESIDENT

DONNA KESSLER

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING DONALD HORTON

DIRECTOR OF PUBLISHING SERVICES KAREN FRALICK

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR CHER WHEELER

CONTACT US

carolinaparent.com 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 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

representing 220 species from around the world. Read about her experiences in “Flock to Sylvan Heights Bird Park” on page 20, then plan your own visit to this avian wonderland located right in our backyard.

Beth

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

Beth Shugg, Editor

2018 GOLD

Editor’s photo of the Shugg family in Sedona, Arizona, during a 2015 Southwest vacation, courtesy of Beth Shugg.

Cover photo and above photo of the Becher family, both taken at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, courtesy of Morton Photography.

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

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8

8

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AN EXAM YOU’LL ACTUALLY BE EXCITED FOR. Free orthodontic consultation including complimentary x-rays, photos, free swag, and a financial quote.

Philharmonic Association Chamber ensembles Presents

Schedule your free consult today!

Text or call 919.303.4557

The Triumph of Rapunzel and the Nanny Goat SUNDAY, MARCH 24 AT 3 P.M.

CARY ARTS CENTER

Two Grimm’s fairytales told by youth musicians, actors, and visual artists.

FAMILY SERIES 20182019

ORIGINAL MUSIC BY R. MICHAEL DAUGHERTY ARTWORK BY CARY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS NARRATED BY APPLAUSE! STUDENTS

(919) 4622055 | WWW.TOWNOFCARY.ORG

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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FYI COMMUNITY

BY JANICE LEWINE

Twelve North Carolina-based nonprofits received grants in January from The Jandy Ammons Foundation to support their capital projects in 2019 relating to art, wildlife conservation, education and mission. The nonprofits include Artspace, Burning Coal Theatre, Marbles Kids Museum, North Carolina Museum of Art Foundation, North Carolina State Engineering Foundation, Triangle Land Conservacy, Visual Art Exchange and Wilders Grove Youth Center, all located in Raleigh; A Lotta Love in Chapel Hill; Community of Hope Ministries in Garner; the Town of Wake Forest; and Holts Chapel Community Church in Oriental.

Photo courtesy of The Jandy Ammons Foundation

Local Family Foundation Awards $305,725 to Community Nonprofits

“Charitable organizations generate valuable opportunities for local communities,” says Jan Ammons, co-founder and president of The Jandy Ammons Foundation. “Our goal is to seek out those with a strong volunteer base who are planning unique projects to bolster

the health and wellness of their community.

They simply need the capital to propel them forward, and that’s where we can contribute.”

Letters of Inquiry for 2019 projects are being accepted through May 6. Learn more at thejandyammonsfoundation.org.

Poe Center Hosts #YouthCulture Workshop Series “Navigating ‘The Talk’” on May 2. “Understanding Vaping,” a session specifically for youths, is March 21. All workshops take place from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Poe Center, and feature light snacks and door prizes. Workshops are free to attendees, but registration is required at poehealth.org/ events/youthculture-workshop-series-atthe-poe-center. The Poe Center is located at 224 Sunnybrook Rd., Raleigh.

Holiday Book Drive for Children Nets More Than 2,800 Books

INGREDIENTS THAT TEENS BELIEVE ARE IN E-CIGARETTES

Image courtesy of NeMaria/Shutterstock.com

Image courtesy of Blablo101/Shutterstock.com

In an effort to empower parents and guardians of tweens and teens, the Poe Center in Raleigh has created a #YouthCulture workshop series that explores how the developing adolescent brain shapes perceptions and behavior. Upcoming sessions include “Adolescent Brain Development and the Role of Social Media” on March 7; “E-Cigarettes 101” on March 21; “Adolescent Brain Development and Addiction” on April 4; and

Generous customers at Barnes & Noble, located at The Streets of Southpoint in Durham, purchased 2,834 new books for young children during the store’s annual Holiday Book Drive Nov. 1-Dec. 31. This was the 13th year that Durham’s Partnership for Children teamed with Barnes & Noble to collect books for children in Durham County who might not otherwise have access to ageappropriate materials.

“During the eight-week book drive we consistently see an outpouring of support and generosity from our customers and

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

booksellers,” says Cheri Hodges, community business development manager for Barnes & Noble at The Streets of Southpoint. “Thanks to their efforts and kindness, over 2,800 children in Durham County received the gift of a new book.” Learn more at dpfc.net.

13.2% 5.8% 66% 1.3% 13.7%

Nicotine Marijuana Just Flavoring Other Don’t Know

SOURCE: Drugabuse.gov | drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trendsstatistics/infographics/teens-e-cigarettes

YOUR 2019 DIBS Discovery Day Excite Your Neurons!

For the Smile Of a Lifetime...

Now Accepting New Patients!

919.489.1543 DurhamPDO.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 24, 1-4 pm FREE! Family-friendly Brain Science Lab Tours • Kids’ Corner • Games Levine Science Research Center Duke West Campus; Free Parking!

www.dibs.duke.edu

121 W. Woodcroft Pkwy Durham, NC 27713

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

Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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FYI EDUCATION

BY KAREN SHORE

WCPSS Has Highest Number of National Board Certified Teachers in U.S.

Cary Elementary School students were excited to receive new art supplies provided by Young People in the Arts Foundation.

Photo courtesy of Young People in the Arts Foundation

Cary Teen’s Passion Project Benefits Low-Income Students Owen Whaley, a student at Green Hope High School in Cary who is passionate about art and sharing it with others., founded Young People in the Arts Foundation to provide art supplies for elementary students in low-income communities.

In December 2018, Whaley visited Cary Elementary School and gave students take-home supplies to create sketches and paintings, plus an ornament to personalize. He also worked with the students to decorate a special pillowcase during his visit. Whaley hopes to make more donations

like this to other schools in the coming months.

“I couldn’t believe how happy the kids were to see the kits at their spot,” he says.

Whaley plans on sharing art supplies and instruction with more schools as Young People in the Arts Foundation grows. Monetary donations can be made via GoFundMe.com, and donations of supplies are also welcome. Teachers interested in having Young People in the Arts Foundation visit their classrooms can reach out to Whaley via Twitter @YPITAF.

Area Students Become Citizen Scientists Children all over the world learn about science by collecting data and participating in classroom experiments. But what if the data they collect can also be used to help scientists? Researchers at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and North Carolina State University have launched a large-scale, camera-trap study called eMammal, and recently enlisted the help of K-12 students from 28 schools and four countries: the U.S., India, Mexico and Kenya.

Over the past four years, teachers helped students as young as third-graders set up motion-activated cameras on or near their school grounds to capture images of

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

various animals, upload resulting photos into the eMammal software, and identify the species that were photographed. Scientists found that children performed as well as adult citizen scientists in setting up and monitoring camera traps.

Teachers reported that eMammal motivated their students and provoked their curiosity, and that the students were more willing to participate in the eMammal project than other classroom activities. Teachers observed that the project gave classroom activities meaning and purpose, resulting in higher student engagement. Learn more at emammal.si.edu/ncsu.

In December 2018, 105 Wake County Public School System teachers earned National Board Certification, according to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. For the 13th consecutive year, the district has the highest number of National Board Certified teachers in the country. More than 2,000 teachers have earned this high distinction while working in the district.

WCPSS is the first school system in the nation to partner with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards to create a program designed to support third-year teachers as they prepare to pursue board certification. In the district’s Beginner to Board-Certified program, participants attend professional development sessions throughout the year and move together through the certification process, starting in the fourth year of their career.

Seeking National Board Certification demands significant time and effort from a teacher. The process requires teachers to analyze their teaching practices and impact on student learning, take on leadership roles and collaborate with peers.

WCPSS has the highest number of National Board-certified teachers in the country. Photo courtesy of WCPSS

FYI

BY KATHERINE KOPP

HEALTH

Be Prepared for Spring and Summer Travel

Image courtesy of ktasimar/ Shutterstock.com

Ready to hit the road? Before you travel, here are a few reminders from Nemours, a nonprofit foundation and pediatric health system based in Florida.

Be sure to pack any medicines and other medical supplies you and your family use regularly, in case they are hard to find at your destination. Don’t forget inhalers, allergy medication and insulin, if needed.

Take Your Medical Histories Along When Traveling While on vacation, it’s wise to carry a written copy of all family members’ medical histories.

Having this with you can help health care professionals make appropriate decisions about how to treat your family, if needed, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting important information that may become necessary.

Your child’s medical history, for example, should include: • Your name, your child’s name, your address and your phone number.

• Your child’s blood type.

• Immunization records.

• Your doctor’s name, address, and office and emergency phone numbers.

• The name, address and phone number of your health insurance carrier, including your policy number.

• A list of any ongoing health problems, such as diabetes or asthma.

• A list of any medications your child takes and your pharmacy’s name and phone number.

• A list of allergies to medications, food, insects and animals.

• A prescription for glasses or contact lenses.

• The name, address and phone number of a relative other than yourself.

SOURCE: kidshealth.org/en/parents/family-travel.html

SOURCE: kidshealth.org/en/parents/family-travel.html

in Chapel Hill.

the middle when our larger cities are measured against other metropolitan areas for an active lifestyle.

Here’s how Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro measured up.

RANK

OVERALL SCORE

BUDGET/PARTICIPATION

SPORTS/OUTDOORS

CHARLOTTE

40

39.92

43

41

RALEIGH

51

36.22

37

62

GREENSBORO

59

35

87

48

SOURCE: wallethub.com/edu/best-and-worst-cities-for-an-active-lifestyle/8817

Do some research before your trip to locate a hospital or medical care facility near your destination, particularly if your child has a chronic health condition. If you’re traveling overseas, try to find one where English is spoken.

Katherine Kopp is a freelance writer

Best and Worst Cities for an Active Lifestyle North Carolina is a great state for people who enjoy an active lifestyle because it offers a generally temperate climate and opportunities to explore the outdoors — from the mountains to the sea. However, according to a recent Wallethub study, the Tar Heel State is solidly in

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

• A small first-aid kit that includes antiseptic, antibiotic ointment, bandages and other OTC medications your doctor may recommend.

• Sunscreen products.

• Insect repellent (the most effective ones contain DEET).

• Waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

STATS:

50%

The percentage increase of food allergies in children between 1997 and 2011.

15 million

The number of Americans with food allergies, including 5.9 million children under age 18.

SOURCE: FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), foodallergy.org

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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FYI STYLE

BY HELEN BANZET WALLACE

As spring breezes into the Triangle this month, try out these simple yet vibrant styles.

BEATRICE VALENZUELA

HABITUAL ADALIE TEE Update your wardrobe every season with fresh T-shirts in classic colors, such as black and white. $58 | shopbop.com

SANDALIAS IN CLASSIC NUDE Treat your feet to Beatrice Valenzuela’s cult classics this spring and summer. $244 | beatricevalenzuela.com

SALIHAH MOORE RIVERS EARRING Hand-woven, made-to-order earrings add a fun and unexpected punch to any outfit. $92 | salihahmoore.com

ULLA JOHNSON MANET BLOUSE Smart, pretty and oh-so-feminine.

Wear this with your most coveted pair of high-waisted jeans. $345 | shopbop.com

re:named SNAKESKIN BIKER SHORTS Wear these shorts with your favorite oversized sweater and sneakers to transition your wardrobe into spring. $41 | shopbop.com

Photos courtesy of the retailers listed.

SUNDRESS CHICAGO LONG COVER UP DRESS Shades of yellow are all the rage this season. $286 | shopbop.com

STYLEKEEPERS: THE NEW CLASSIC JACKET What’s not to love about this denim jacket featuring a mid-length profile and tie-belt? $199 | shopbop.com

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Helen Banzet Wallace is a freelance writer, fashion blogger and mom. Her work has appeared in local and regional publications. Interested in price-conscious alternatives? Email her at helenbwallace@gmail.com.

MARCH

Dress form photo courtesy of Sandra Cunningham/Shutterstock.com. Family photos courtesy of Biltmore Estate.

Enter to Win 4 Daytime Tickets to Biltmore Estate If you haven’t experienced a visit to lovely Biltmore Estate yet, you now have one more reason to make the 3.5-hour drive to Asheville from the Triangle. Elegant fashions worn by the Vanderbilts that have been recreated by Oscar-winning designer John Bright fill the grand rooms of Biltmore House as part of Biltmore’s newest exhibition, “A Vanderbilt House Party — The Gilded Age,” which opened Feb. 8 and runs through May 27.

Enter to win four daytime tickets (valued at $240) to see Biltmore Estate and the exhibit by going to carolinaparent.com/cp/contests and clicking on the “Biltmore Estate” post. Type this code in the online form you’ll be required to fill out: VanderbiltFashions. We’ll announce a winner March 25, 2019. Good luck! carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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6 NONSTOP FAMILY- FRIENDLY

DES TINATIONS

BY MARILYN JONES

Photo courtesy of JET-X/Shutterstock.com

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TA K E T H E S T R E S S O U T O F A I R T R AV E L B Y F LY I N G D I R E C T T O O N E O F T H E S E F U N C I T I E S

I

f you want your family to travel by air but dread

rangers tell the story of this symbol of freedom. (Due

connecting flights, you’re in luck. Raleigh-Durham

to ongoing renovations, expected to be completed in

International Airport offers a wide range of nonstop

May 2019, the exhibits and films are not available for

flights to vacation destinations like Cancun, Paris,

public viewing at this time.)

London, Montego Bay, Toronto, Montreal and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

Want to stay in the U.S.? There are dozens of

Explore Benjamin Franklin’s legacy at the Benjamin Franklin Museum, an underground establisment. You'll find a steel-framed “ghost house” marked out in the

child-friendly nonstop destinations as well. Let’s explore

museum's courtyard that outlines the dimensions of

six of these domestic vacation hotspots.

Franklin’s home. Just beyond, see the post office where Franklin served as Philadelphia postmaster beginning

PHILADELPHIA

in 1737 under the British Crown Post, and later as joint

Start at Independence Visitor Center. There, you can

postmaster general over the colonies with William Hunter.

get your free, timed tour tickets for Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S.

At the post office, you can get the postmark “B. Free Franklin” (Franklin’s protest against British rule) for the

Constitution were debated and signed. On the way to Independence Hall, stop at Liberty Bell Center (there is usually a line, but it moves quickly), where park

ABOVE: Craig, Stacy, Sadie and Landon Becher of Raleigh have traveled to Punta Cana, New York City and and other fun places. Baby number three arrives in May. Photo courtesy of Morton Photography

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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price of a first-class stamp. Come prepared with your own stamped envelope for a unique and inexpensive souvenir.

The Betsy Ross House is another must-see. A local seamstress credited as the creator of the first American flag, Betsy Ross has played an iconic role in American history. Although there is no documented proof to substantiate the claim, Ross’ grandson, William Canby, reported that George Washington, who was the General of the Continental Army at the time, requested that she create the flag in accordance with a pencil drawing.

You can spend several days in the city’s historic areas alone. Other places to visit in Philadelphia include the Christ Church Burial Ground, where notable historic figures including Franklin and four other signers of the Declaration of Independence are buried; Declaration House, where Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence; and Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest, continuously inhabited residential street.

Plan a day at the Philadelphia Zoo or at Adventure Aquarium, which is across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey. No doubt, there’s plenty of family fun to be found in the “City of Brotherly Love.”

BOSTON The 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, marked by a red line, weaves through Boston to 16 historic sites significant to the pre-Revolutionary War era and beyond.

One stop includes Old South Meeting House, where the Boston Tea Party was organized. Meander off the trail here to explore the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, where you can “storm” aboard a ship to throw tea into the water, as colonists did during the Boston Tea Party 245 years ago.

Faneuil Hall has served as an open forum meeting hall and marketplace for more than 270 years. In 1764, Americans first protested against the Sugar Act and the Stamp Act, setting in place the doctrine that would come to be known as “no taxation without representation.”

Paul Revere’s house, dating to 1680, is the oldest residence in downtown Boston. A silversmith and patriot, Revere lived in this home during the 1700s. While taking this tour, you’ll also hear about his family life there.

Revere arranged to have lanterns lit — one if the British were coming by land, and two if they were coming by sea — at the Old North Church, which was built in 1723. The lanterns were hung in the 191-foot steeple so Revere and fellow rider William Dawes would see them. Old North Church is open daily to the public.

Step aboard the oldest commissioned warship afloat, launched in Boston in 1979 — the USS Constitution, known as “Old Ironsides” — at the USS Constitution Museum. While there, you’ll learn about what it was like to serve on the ship’s decks two centuries ago.

The last stop on the Freedom Trail is the site of the Battle of Bunker Hill, which took place June 17, 1775, and was the first major battle of the Revolutionary War.

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

While you’re in Boston, discover plenty of other child-friendly attractions and activities, including the Boston Children’s Museum, New England Aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Center.

SAN DIEGO A great way to see San Diego is aboard an Old Town Trolley with hopon/hop-off privileges. Before or after the trolley tour, wander through the area to shop, dine and discover several points of interest, including museums and historic homes.

The trolley winds its way through the historic Gaslamp Quarter.

When development began in the 1860s, the area was known as New Town, in contrast to Old Town. Beautiful, century-old buildings of varying architectural design line the streets.

The trolley crosses the San Diego-Coronado Bridge to Coronado Island, home of Hotel del Coronado. This stop offers several beaches, shopping and dining options.

The trolley later stops at the 1,200-acre Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park. You’ll find 17 major museums, several performing arts venues, beautiful gardens and the San Diego Zoo. If you choose to visit a museum or two and wander through the ornate gardens, save another full day for the zoo.

When visiting the San Diego Zoo, consider hopping on a guided tour bus, which travels through 75 percent of the park in 35 minutes.

In addition to learning about the animals, you’ll discover that the zoo originated when the exotic animal exhibitions from the 1915 Panama-California Exposition were abandoned.

It was Dr. Harry M. Wegeforth, M.D., who founded the Zoological Society of San Diego in 1916 after discovering the animals had been left behind. The zoo pioneered cageless exhibits. A lion area, designed without enclosing wires, opened in 1922.

Once you have the lay of the land, consider day visits to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, SeaWorld San Diego or Disneyland in Anaheim.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Sadie and Landon Becher of Raleigh watch planes taxi in and out at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Photo courtesy of Morton Photography ABOVE, TOP: You never know who you'll meet at Independence Hall. Photo courtesy of Tim Hawk for Visit Philadelphia ABOVE, BOTTOM: The Paul Revere statue honors this famous Boston patriot. Photo courtesy of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau

SAN ANTONIO Make the Alamo your first stop in San Antonio. Founded in 1718, this

holding out for 13 days before the invaders finally overpowered

structure stood as a former Franciscan mission named the San Antonio

them, all of the defenders died and “Remember the Alamo” became

de Valero after St. Anthony of Padua. Spanish soldiers called it “El Alamo”

the rallying cry of the Texas Revolution. Texas won its independence

after the Spanish word for cottonwood because it stood in a grove of

from Mexico in 1836.

cottonwood trees. They also named it that in honor of Alamo de Parras, their hometown in Mexico.

Hop on a trolley tour bus near the Alamo to experience a comprehensive overview of the city. Tour guides take visitors to two

After Mexico won its independence from Spain in 1821, white

of the UNESCO World Heritage site missions — Mission Concepción

settlers began to arrive. Soon a newly elected governor rescinded the

and Mission San José — both built in the early 1700s, in addition to

Mexican constitution.

the Alamo, to convert Native Americans to Christianity and to help

White settlers and Hispanic Texans demanded the return of the

settle the region under Spanish rule. Mission San José has been

constitution. General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and his army

designated as a national historical park and features a 23-minute film

marched on San Antonio to end the rebellion. After courageously

that explains the history of missions in the area.

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

17

Venture outside of the downtown area to experience the San Antonio Zoo, Aquatica San Antonio (a SeaWorld park) and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, all of which offer great family fun.

NEW ORLEANS Known as “The Big Easy” for a variety of reasons — a gossip columnist once contrasted life as being simpler in New Orleans than in “The Big Apple,” and the nickname is also said to reference the ease in which New Orleans’ laboring musicians were able to pursue their art — New Orleans blends French, Spanish, African, Cajun and Creole cultures and traditions to create a setting that is uniquely its own.

Start your exploration in the French Quarter. In 1718 explorer Jean‑Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville, founded New Orleans for France. Four years later, he made New Orleans the capital of the colony. The original city was centered in what is now called Jackson Square, named in honor of Andrew Jackson, a hero of the Battle of New Orleans, which took place Jan. 8, 1815. It is considered the greatest battlefield victory of the War of 1812.

Facing the river, the square oozes history, jazz, mystery and excitement. Street performers and artists add to the fun. Explore the streets leading off the square, enjoy a unique New Orleans‑style meal and tour some of the area’s historic homes.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is located in Audubon Park adjacent to the French Quarter. Discover exhibits featuring the Mississippi River and the Great Maya Reef, an underwater world of the past featuring moray eels, lionfish and spiny lobsters. The “Gulf of Mexico” exhibit is housed in a 400,000‑gallon tank featuring sharks and stingrays.

Cruise on the Steamboat NATCHEZ and hop a trolley for a ride up Saint Charles Avenue to the Garden District to better understand the ABOVE, TOP: The San Antonio River Walk is one of Texas’ most popular attractions. Photo courtesy of Marilyn Jones ABOVE, BOTTOM: Red Rock Amphitheatre has hosted musicians such as The Beatles, U2 and Tom Petty. Photo courtesy of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau OPPOSITE PAGE: Street entertainment is common in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Photo courtesy of Zack Smith and NewOrleans.com

city’s past before making your way to Audubon Zoo, which spans the globe with exhibits such as “Louisiana Swamp” and “Jaguar Jungle.”

You’ll also see Amur leopards, orangutans and white alligators.

DENVER | BY CHRISTA C. HOGAN No matter the season, Denver, Colorado, promises direct flights from

The San Antonio River Walk is known as one of the top tourist attractions in Texas. In the late 1920s, when city and business

Raleigh‑Durham International Airport and family fun for all ages.

Denver’s Downtown Aquarium offers 1 million gallons of

leaders realized what an asset the river could be to the growing

extraordinary marine life exhibits. Pause for a meal at the aquarium’s

city, architect Robert H. H. Hugman developed plans that led to the

restaurant, then watch the “Mystic Mermaids” show, performed in the

construction of the San Antonio River Walk. Completed in 1941,

50,000‑gallon centerpiece tank.

this walkway transformed the downtown area into a vibrant tourist

Appeal to young scientists and curious minds by exploring the

destination. Hotels, restaurants and shops line the oldest part of it.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science, where your family will discover

Stroll along the river or take a short barge cruise to see some of the extensions: South Alamo Street to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center; Museum Reach connecting downtown to the San Antonio

dinosaur fossils, Egyptian mummies, planetarium shows and other scientific wonders.

Just next door, the sprawling Denver Zoo offers a 10‑acre “Toyota

Museum of Art and Pearl Brewery (a dining and shopping complex);

Elephant Passage” exhibit. Within this area, your family can explore 2

and Mission Reach, which extends 8 miles to Mission Espada.

miles of interconnected trails.

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

General admission to the Denver Art Museum is free for ages 18 and

location its name. Less than a 1-mile drive from the amphitheater,

younger, and children can use tree branches to build horse sculptures

view 100-million-year-old dinosaur tracks and bones at Dinosaur

in the “A Walk in the Woods” exhibit, participate in Create-n-Takes to

Ridge, a national nature landmark.

make their own art, and play gallery games.

Cool off and get your thrills on as a family at Elitch Gardens Theme

Brush up on your Colorado gold rush history with a visit to Idaho Springs, a small town 34 miles west of downtown Denver that was

& Water Park, open May through October. Visit during summer and you

founded by prospectors during the 1800s. Today, visitors can pan for

may be able to catch a concert while you’re there, which is free with

gold at the Argo Mill & Tunnel and tour the old mine to learn about its

park admission.

disastrous history.

Denver is a premier destination for sports fans. Where else can you watch a Denver Broncos NFL game, Denver Nuggets NBA game,

Finish your day with a burger and craft beer at nearby Tommyknocker Brewery.

Colorado Rockies MLB game or Colorado Avalanche NHL game — all in the same city? Denver even claims a Major League Soccer team:

Marilyn Jones is a travel writer living in Texas with her family. Her

The Colorado Rapids.

work routinely appears in magazines, newspapers, online and on her

Located 24 miles northwest of Denver in Westminster, the Butterfly Pavilion features a tropical conservatory with more than 1,600 butterflies. There you’ll meet Rosie, a live Chilean rose hair tarantula you can hold in the palm of your hand — if you so desire!

When your family is ready to get up close and personal with Denver’s gorgeous mountain views, head 68 miles northwest to

website, travelwithmarilyn.com.

Christa C. Hogan is a freelance writer and mom to three busy boys.

Sources for historical facts mentioned in this article include history.com, britannica.com, battlefields.com and culturetrip.com.

Rocky Mountain National Park. If the roads are safe (typically after Memorial Day when most of the snow has melted), take Trail Ridge Road — a 48-mile drive in the park that climbs to more than 12,000 feet in elevation.

Drive 21 miles west of downtown Denver to explore the famed Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where you can take in a show, explore the facility or learn about the amphitheater’s 75-plus years of music

PLAN YOUR TRIP! PHILADELPHIA discoverphl.com

SAN DIEGO sandiego.org

NEW ORLEANS neworleans.com

BOSTON bostonusa.com

SAN ANTONIO visitsanantonio.com

DENVER denver.org

history. If you have the time and energy, hike the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail through the surrounding gorgeous red rocks that gave the

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

19

Flock to Sylvan Heights Bird Park

BY JANICE LEWINE

H

ave you ever heard the raucous call of a laughing kookaburra

science experts raise hundreds of birds each year, with a specific

or watched a peacock proudly fan his colorful feathers? Maybe

focus on rare and endangered waterfowl (geese, ducks and swans).

you’d like to hand-feed a beautiful flamingo or come face to face with an emu, one of the world’s tallest birds? These

The center is closed to the public for the safety of the breeding birds, but Sylvan Heights Bird Park displays its waterfowl and other

unique opportunities await you at Sylvan Heights Bird Park in Scotland

avian species at its lush 18-acre park, which also features natural

Neck, North Carolina, located 90 minutes from Raleigh. As one of

wetlands, nature trails, a visitor center and a gift shop. More than

the nation’s premier avian conservation and education centers, Sylvan

55,000 guests visit the park each year.

Heights Bird Park offers up-close encounters with more than 2,000 magnificent birds representing 220 species from around the world.

Mike and Ali Lubbock opened Sylvan Heights Bird Park in

“Most of the waterfowl on exhibit at Sylvan Heights Bird Park were hatched and raised right here at the Sylvan Heights Avian Breeding Center, and some other species were obtained from

2006. Originally from England, the Lubbocks began breeding

zoological institutions around the country,” says Katie Lubbock,

rare waterfowl in 1981 in Sylva, North Carolina, where they

media and communications coordinator for the park. “In the case

founded Sylvan Heights Waterfowl. In 1989, they moved their

of our macaws and cockatoos, nearly all are rescued former pets.

entire collection of birds to Scotland Neck, where they established

Some birds also came to us from a wildlife rehabilitation situation

Sylvan Heights Waterfowl II, now called the Sylvan Heights Avian

where they’re unable to be released back into the wild, so they have

Breeding Center. Today, the center’s animal husbandry and wildlife

a permanent home in our aviaries.”

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

SOUNDS AND SURROUNDINGS Skillfully created to resemble natural habitats, these aviaries showcase birds native to South America, North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Eight aviaries are walk-through and entice guests to observe toucans, scarlet ibis, king vultures, spoonbills, cranes, doves, swans and many other species roaming in expansive surroundings.

Owls, peafowl, pheasants, hummingbirds and other feathered friends inhabit smaller aviaries. Large identification signs, featuring attractive images by renowned National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore, provide interesting tidbits about each species on exhibit.

This charming cast of characters punctuates the tranquility of Sylvan Heights Bird Park with squawks, screeches, quacks, honks, whistles, chirps and cheeps. These captivating sounds belong to ducks, flamingos, egrets, herons, parakeets, pigeons, and legions of other birds that unleash them at will.

COMMUNICATION Some birds communicate with their guests. “Many of our macaws, African grey parrots and cockatoos will cheerfully talk to visitors,” Lubbock says. “They learn to mimic sounds and words that they hear frequently, either from their former owners or from their current environment. One of our African grey parrots even learned to mimic the warning beep that school buses make when reversing in our parking lot — and he would make the sound every time he saw a large vehicle approaching.”

“The birds are accustomed to being around visitors and some really do seem to enjoy being in the spotlight,” Lubbock says.

“Our umbrella cockatoos love to perform for large groups of kids — they will sing and dance on their perches when school groups are nearby,” she says. “Visitors seem to be immediately attracted to the flamingos, scarlet ibis, macaws and other boisterous, colorful birds. But then they look a little closer and start to notice that even the smaller, less colorful species have something unique and interesting to offer — whether it’s an unusual song, friendly personality or amusing behavior.”

Families are sure to observe this in Wings of the Tropics, a spacious aviary that bustles with birds indigenous to Africa, South America, New Guinea, Indonesia and the desert regions of the western U.S. Here, red-billed firefinches and yellow-hooded blackbirds are in constant flight, swooping and gliding from branch to branch, chirping and singing without pause. Others, like the red-eyed Guinea turaco, often land on perches to gaze curiously at their human admirers. And the elegant crested tinamou, in between nibbles of fruit and seeds, coos softly while pecking at visitors’ shoes.

“Birds are often very social, so many of their interactions with one another tend to remind us of ourselves,” Lubbock says. “They

OPPOSITE PAGE: A peacock fans his radiant feathers. Photo courtesy of K.G. Lubbock/ Sylvan Heights Bird Park ABOVE, TOP TO BOTTOM: A Guinea turaco and a white-faced whistling duck live in lush aviaries. Photos courtesy of Janice Lewine

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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argue with one another, play with one another, and defend their

endangered birds — such as the Hawaiian goose, Baer’s pochard,

mates and offspring from potential threats.”

Laysan teal, Bernier’s teal from Madagascar and white-winged duck

It’s not uncommon to see birds break up squabbles among their

of Southeast Asia — are raised at Sylvan Heights Avian Breeding

young or preen each other intently. Flamingos, which are naturally

Center to help ensure their survival through captive breeding.

gregarious, exist in colonies that can number in the thousands. Sylvan

Educating the public about these endangered species and their real

Heights Bird Park has nearly 200 flamingos on exhibit. (Watch them

possibility of extinction is paramount to Sylvan Heights Bird Park.

balance on one long leg to rest, or filter invertebrates from the mud and water through their unusual bills, giving the appearance of eating

EDUCATION

upside down.)

There are several ways you can become more familiar with the park’s cherished residents. Keeper Talks take place daily at 1:15

DIET

p.m., and offer short presentations about the king vulture, crested

The birds’ diets vary greatly between species. Some birds, like parrots

screamer, magpie goose or screech owl. The Landing Zone, located

and toucans, require fresh fruit, while geese need greens. Mice and rats

near the visitor center, is a large free-flight aviary where guests can

are staple foods for carnivorous birds, such as the park’s kookaburra

purchase a parakeet seed stick or bag of flamingo food for $1 to

and owls. Other birds, like herons and egrets, feast on fish. And Sylvan

hand-feed the birds. The Landing Zone is open daily from

Heights Bird Park’s tiniest dwellers — hummingbirds — receive nectar

10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. For families who adore penguins, the

and insects daily to stay in peak condition.

park recently announced plans for a penguin exhibit showcasing these comical, water-loving birds.

PROTECTION While many bird and waterfowl species claim healthy numbers

SEASONAL EXPERIENCES

in the wild, others aren’t as fortunate. Many endangered species

Sylvan Heights Bird Park is open year-round, and each of the four

that make their home at Sylvan Heights Bird Park — including

seasons offers distinctive experiences.

the blue-throated macaw, Edward’s pheasant and the majestic

“During the late fall and winter, the waterfowl are looking

whooping crane — are experiencing a rapid decline in population

sharp and colorful in fresh breeding plumage and practicing

due to habitat loss and human development. Other critically

their breeding displays. Several species native to the southern

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

hemisphere may raise their young during the winter, such as black-

Sylvan Heights Bird Park is open Tuesday-Sunday (closed

necked swans from South America,” Lubbock explains. “Spring

Mondays), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., November through March; and 9 a.m.-5

and summer visitors will see all of our tropical birds on exhibit and

p.m., April through October. Admission is $11 for ages 13 and

our gardens in full bloom. Guests can watch ducklings hatch in the

older, $8 for ages 3-12 and free for ages 2 and younger. Visit

visitor center incubator and, in mid-summer, our 4-acre sunflower

shwpark.com or call 252-826-3186 to learn more.

field adjacent to the park blooms all at once, attracting many types of birds and butterflies.”

Janice Lewine is the associate editor of Carolina Parent.

“Most of the birds perform fascinating mating or territorial displays at certain times of the year,” Lubbock says. “Flamingos build nests from mud and squabble with one another over territory, macaws and cockatoos talk and sing, cranes dance and throw sticks in the air. Crowned pigeons bow and make a loud booming call, hooded mergansers flash their crests and

DUCKLING DAY

strut across the water ... every time someone visits, they will see

Once a year, on Duckling Day, Sylvan Heights

something different.”

Avian Breeding Center opens its doors to provide guided tours to certain members of the Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Society. Family memberships

OPPOSITE PAGE: A flamingo, scarlet macaw and scarlet ibis are just a few of the park's beloved residents. Photos courtesy of K.G. Lubbock/Sylvan Heights Bird Park and Janice Lewine ABOVE: Feed the flamingos during your visit.

Photo courtesy of K.G. Lubbock/Sylvan Heights Bird Park

that qualify for this special event start at $159.

This year, Duckling Day is May 4.

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Vacation Accommodations: House or Hotel?

Westin Hotels & Resorts photo courtesy of EQRoy/Shutterstock.com. Airbnb photo courtesy of Mirtmirt/Shutterstock.com.

Hotels and short-term rentals each offer pros and cons for traveling families. A mom and a grandmother who travel with kids share their insights.

BY JOANNE CLEAVER AND SAMANTHA CLEAVER

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

A

fter a long day of making vacation memories, the last thing you need is a tension-filled evening. You want to relax, let the kids unwind and sink into a comfy bed for a well-deserved good night’s sleep to prep for the next day of sightseeing.

Traveling with family means everyone pitches in, from booking to packing, which begs the question: Can one accommodation satisfy everyone — from Grandma to Grandbaby?

Choosing the right accommodations for your brood makes up a large part of vacation planning. The wide range of lodgings available generally fall into professionally owned and managed hotels, or houses and condos owned and operated by families that can be booked through vacation rental sites such as Airbnb, HomeAway and VRBO. Longtime travel writer and author Joanne Cleaver is a big fan of traditional hotels, even when traveling with small kids. Her daughter, Samantha Cleaver, who is an educator and mom of three preschoolers, favors short-term house rentals. Here are their thoughts on choosing a hotel versus a house rental.

JOANNE CLEAVER: LET PROFESSIONALS DO THE WORK Two years ago, I checked into the Westin New York Grand Central.

I was in New York City for a week of business and family activities.

Samantha and her then 5-month-old baby were to join me two days into my trip, but I didn’t want to take any chances on not having a crib. I asked that one be sent to my room as soon as possible. Then, as an afterthought, I asked for an extra stack of towels. I explained to the front desk attendant that Samantha and I would line the bathroom sink with towels so that we could bathe the baby.

“Hold on a minute,” the staffer said. She called housekeeping.

Did they have a baby tub we could use? No, they didn’t. No worries.

I was sure we could figure out a workaround.

I dumped my stuff in the room and left. When I returned that evening, the crib was set up and stacked with towels and baby blankets. Like a rowboat in harbor sat a brand-new baby tub, still in its store wrappings, topped with a new set of baby shampoos.

Therein lies my argument for hotels: Hotel staff want to take care of you. Let them. Most hotels want to make families feel welcome.

Most are eager to greet kids with their own menus, activities and small accommodations.

Tired parents can order room service or trade off, with one taking the kids to the pool while the other lingers over breakfast and coffee. Staff are eager to help you with loading and unloading the car.

You can request as many towels and pillows as you want. Your only real challenge is keeping the kids out of the minibar. Of course, you have to manage the kids’ activity and noise levels in a hotel — easily done given the generous public space.

The main hotel complication we’ve encountered is that hotels can’t, or won’t, guarantee that they actually can provide items such as a crib or related gear that customers request in advance. There are only so many cribs per hotel, and if they’re claimed when

you arrive, you’re out of luck, as we found in a tense standoff at a Holiday Inn Express when checking in for a conference Samantha was attending, nursing baby in tow. That is not a problem at a house rental, where everything on the premises is provided specifically for the guests’ use. A freestanding house also insulates neighbors from noise and activity at all hours. But overall, I’ll take my chances on a hotel. After all, parents and grandparents deserve a little pampering, too.

SAMANTHA CLEAVER: RENT A HOME FOR REAL RELAXATION Let’s face it, when you’re traveling with kids, it’s a trip, not a vacation. No amount of free shampoo and room service allows you to stay out late for margaritas, enables your kids to sleep in or gives you the flexibility to visit the spa instead of the zoo. Choosing accommodations is not about finding the best hotel, but rather about determining the best space for minimizing the hassles that often accompany traveling with children.

On a recent trip to Atlanta, we booked a center-city, threebedroom, two-bath house through Airbnb. (Full disclosure: We own and rent several Airbnb units, but that does not give us any inside advantage to renting other units through the platform.) The centrally located bungalow promised basic amenities, a clean space and, most importantly, separate bedrooms for our 4- and 2-year-old children. (If you have ever tried to put two kids to bed past their bedtime in the same room, you are rooting for me on this one.)

Booking a hotel, especially through a national hotel chain, comes with the assurance that you get a clean room, efficient check-in and basic amenities. Book a short-term rental and you live with some ambiguity until you get there. Will the space actually look like it does in the pictures? Will I have any trouble communicating with the host?

Will the entry code work?

When renting an Airbnb, I look for “superhosts” — hosts who have an established track record for delivering what they promise — and take time to read reviews from other families who have stayed in a potential rental. Thanks to this advance scouting, we arrived at the bungalow in Atlanta, easily checked in, and walked into an open-floor plan with a living-dining-kitchen area that was the perfect size for our band of seven adults and children.

At a hotel, the staff can often fulfill family-friendly requests. And, while many Airbnbs advertise that they are also family-friendly, you’re on your own to make the space comfortable. The Airbnb we rented in Atlanta wasn’t completely toddler-ready. We spent the first half-hour moving everything that was not kid-friendly out of reach (mostly small potted plants) and taking note of where the chemicals were stored so we could keep the kids away from them. Once we arranged the space, however, the benefits kicked in.

Because we had a full kitchen, we were able to stock the fridge with breakfast fixings and healthy snacks, which saved us money.

Our preschoolers each had their own space for bedtime. We used carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION the clothes dryer to quickly dry towels and swimsuits after a visit to the pool. In between excursions to the Georgia Aquarium, various neighborhoods and Zoo Atlanta, we used the Airbnb as a space to relax and put our feet up while the kids crawled around pretending to be deer, colored in coloring books and did what they usually do when we’re at home.

An Airbnb is your home away from home, but it’s also someone else’s home or family investment, so tighter rules apply. But even with that caveat, you have privacy in a full house, which is the best way to capture some great vacation memories during your trip.

Joanne Cleaver, who lives in Maine, is a nationally published freelance writer and author of three family travel guides.

Samantha Cleaver is a nationally published freelance writer, reading consultant and educator who lives in Charlotte with her partner and three preschoolers.

HOUSE VS. HOTEL HOTEL Advantages • On-site professional management.

• On-site dining and room service.

• Typically offers a pool and other amenities.

Disadvantages • No guarantee of baby necessities, such as a crib or baby bath.

• Can be difficult to organize the right combination of rooms and privacy.

• Might be more expensive.

• Tips are expected for housekeeping, bellman and doorman.

• Must manage noise and activity to respect other guests.

TWEETSIE RAILROAD ® All aboard for a Wild West Train Adventure at North Carolina’s original family-friendly theme park.

Tweetsie Railroad is a unique attraction featuring historic steam locomotives, live entertainment, classic amusement rides, gold panning, gem mining and the Deer Park Zoo. 2019 special events include the Easter Bunny, Day Out With Thomas™, Fireworks Extravaganza, Cool Summer Nights, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™, K-9s in Flight Frisbee® Dogs, Riders In The Sky, Railroad Heritage Weekend, Ghost Train® and Tweetsie Christmas®.

HOURS VARY BY SEASON. VISIT TWEETSIE.COM TO PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY.

300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane • Blowing Rock, NC 28605 1-877-TWEETSIE • (877) 893-3874 • tweetsie.com

HOUSE Advantages • Enables flexibility and often offers generous space.

• Should deliver promised necessities, such as a crib and toys.

• Enables greater tolerance for a normal level of children’s activities and related noises.

• Offers a wide array of interior arrangements compared to standard hotel rooms.

• Having access to a kitchen can save money on eating out.

Disadvantages • Food service is DIY, and that includes kitchen chores.

• May not offer recreational amenities.

• Not always within walking distance of major tourist destinations, such as museums.

• May require chores at checkout.

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

YOUR AD. THIS SPACE. NEXT MONTH. advertising@carolinaparent.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

JOIN IN ON THE FUN AT THE NORTH CAROLINA ZOO IN ASHEBORO THIS SUMMER! Summer Camps (Grades One-Six) Sign your children up for a WILD adventure! North Carolina Zoo Camp is a way for kids to learn about animals and nature. Zoo camp programs offer a oneday or week-long experience for students entering first through sixth grades.

Whether we meet a baby alligator, learn how to communicate like chimpanzees, or hang out with a vampire bat keeper, our camps are guaranteed to be a blast.

Each week has a different theme, so there are always new animals to learn about!

In addition, the North Carolina Zoo is proud to offer Camp KidZu! These day camps are specifically designed for rising third- through eighth-graders with high-functioning autism. The camps offer social, educational and recreational activities in a structured (but fun!) environment. Register for KidZu through email at zoo.camps@nczoo.org or by calling 1.800.488.0444, ext. 7719.

All North Carolina Zoo summer camps run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., rain or shine. Day camps are $60 and week-long camps are $250. We do offer discounts if you register for three or more camps at the same time or if you are a North Carolina Zoo Society member. To learn more about our camps or to register, visit nczoo.org/camps or call 1.800.488.0444, ext. 7719 Make sure your child joins us for a wild summer experience they’ll never forget!

Family Zoo Snoozes Have you ever dreamed about spending the night at a zoo? Now is your chance!

Join us for a Family Zoo Snooze. The North Carolina Zoo offers exciting overnight programs to engage your brain, entertain your senses and enhance your environmental awareness. Each overnight adventure includes special presentations, activities, a light snack, an outdoor experience and a craft to take home. The

fun continues the next morning with a light breakfast and a program. At 9 a.m., we send you off to continue your adventure on your own in the North Carolina Zoo’s 500-acre park until closing time.

In 2019, we are offering two exciting snoozes that your family can register for: • On July 13, 2019 we will be offering our Safari snooze, which starts at 6 p.m.

• On August 17, 2019 we will be offering our Creatures of the Night snooze, which starts at 7 p.m.

Zoo Snoozes are $25 per person for the first four family members. After four, the price is $15 for each additional person. Due to the nature of the activities, everyone must be seven years old or older. To learn more about the specific snoozes and about what to bring on your visit, go to nczoo.org/education/ family-group-programs/zoo-snooze. To register, contact the Zoo education office by phone at 336.879-7719 or toll free at 1.800.488.0444, ext. 7719. You can also email zoosnooze@nczoo.org.

When planning your next visit to the North Carolina Zoo, don’t forget that we offer a wide range of educational programming for Scouts, schools, homeschools, preschools, birthday parties, and other groups. To learn more about all of our educational offerings, visit nczoo.org/education. Make your next Zoo visit fun and educational!

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TWEETSIE RAILROAD 2019 SPECIAL EVENTS Meet the Easter Bunny

Riders In The Sky

Day Out With Thomas™

Performances at Noon & 3 pm

April 19–21

August 17–18

Fireworks Extravaganza

Railroad Heritage Weekend

Park open until 9 pm, Fireworks at 9:30 pm

Ghost Train®

June 7–16

August 24 – 25

Thursday, July 4

September 20–21, 27–28, October 4 – 5, 11–12, 18 –19, 25–26

Cool Summer Nights July 6, 13, 20, 27

Park open until 9 pm

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™

7:30 pm–11:30 pm

July 12–14, Appearances at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm Saturday evening at 7 pm

K-9s in Flight Frisbee® Dogs July 20– 28

Shows at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm; Saturday evening at 7 pm

Tweetsie® Christmas

November 22–23, 29–30, December 6–7, 13–14, 20– 21, 27–28 5 pm–10 pm

Events subject to change

300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Visit tweetsie.com or call 877-TWEETSIE (877-893-3874)

tweetsie.com

Ride behind an Authentic Narrow-Gauge Steam Locomotive • Enjoy Live Shows & Amusement Park Rides • Pan for Gold • Deer Park Zoo • Gift Shops

stay in the know sign up for our free e-newsletters

monthly news // monday update // weekend family fun planner the bib // digital subscription // exclusive offers from our partners

CarolinaParent.com/newsletters 28

MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

GROWING UP

Untangling the Entitlement Trap How to raise grateful, gracious kids

BY MALIA JACOBSON

Image courtesy of Toey Toey/Shutterstock.com

C

hildren of all ages are experts in making sure their needs are met.

They usually seek out things they need — attention, nourishment, safety and love — from infancy through adulthood. At times, though, kids’ natural and normal requests for things they need can morph into outright demands for things they really don’t need, from decadent foods to expensive toys to unreasonable appeals for parents’ time and attention.

This type of entitled behavior pushes parents’ boundaries and buttons. Curbing a child’s entitled behavior is a challenge in today’s hyper-involved, over protective parenting culture, but it’s vital to raising resilient, emotionally healthy children, says Amy McCready, the Raleigh-based founder of Positive Parenting Solutions and best-selling author of “The Me, Me, Me Epidemic: A Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capable, Grateful Kids in an Over-Entitled World.” Here’s how to start.

the wayside as we arrange our world around a little one. While this shuffling of priorities is natural and healthy, it’s also unsustainable over time. Eventually, your own needs resurface — you need to get a haircut, get some work done or simply take a shower.

According to clinical psychologist Leon F. Seltzer, author of “Paradoxical Strategies in Psychotherapy,” continually allowing your world to revolve around your child fosters an entitled attitude. In short, don’t be surprised if the toddler who never hears “Dad’s busy, I’ll help you soon,” or “Please wait for a moment,” becomes a demanding, entitled tween. Balancing the family’s schedule and priorities to give everyone’s needs top billing now and then — “Sorry, but tonight Mom has a book club meeting, so we’ll go to the park tomorrow”— helps kids learn to tolerate not instantly having every need met while building important skills, like recognizing and appreciating the needs and priorities of others.

EARLY YEARS

ELEMENTARY YEARS

Time for Me In the throes of early parenthood, it’s all too easy for parents to lose track of their own wants and needs. Time with friends, regular exercise — even showers — go by

Chore Chart Asking for costly clothes, gadgets or vacations is common for children, especially those who see their peers sporting $150 shoes or a tan from their latest island

getaway. Scientists call this tendency “availability bias.” A sixth-grader who expects to get a $400 Apple Watch because most of her peers have one isn’t necessarily entitled, because the expectation is a natural byproduct of her environment. That doesn’t, however, mean that you should spring for purchases that feel extravagant or don’t match your family’s values. Instead, use these requests as opportunities to talk about the work required to earn enough money for a high-end purchase. Assigning kids paid chores helps reinforce these messages while teaching real-world lessons in accountability and discipline.

“Earning money for chores teaches children that work is valuable,” says Rebecca Pavese, a financial planner and portfolio manager with Palisades Hudson Financial Group in Atlanta. “To send a clear message, however, children need to be held accountable to actually do the chores to the best of their ability. Giving children money for chores that they did not complete does not teach them that they need to work for their pay.”

TEEN YEARS Gratitude Adjustment Many teens take for granted the things they have to be grateful for, including health care, electronics, plentiful food and access to transportation — and are unaware of the hard work others do on their behalf.

Learning to appreciate life’s many gifts can help children and teens grow into happier, healthier adults. McCready recommends building a gratitude ritual into the family’s daily routine. At dinner each night, have everyone share something they’re grateful for, or hang a chalkboard in a central location so family members can jot down daily appreciations.

“Or, get a big jar and encourage everyone to jot their ‘gratitudes’ on slips of paper throughout the week and read them aloud together each weekend,” she notes.

“Making thankfulness part of your family rituals will help foster a sense of gratitude in your children that they will carry with them throughout their entire lives.”

Malia Jacobson is a health and family journalist, and mom of three. carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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OH, BABY!

Keeping Your Baby Moving While on the Go

BY REBECCA QUINONES AND RACHEL GANDY

T

Photo courtesy of Kakigori Studio/Shutterstock.com

raveling provides exciting opportunities to visit friends and family, explore new places or just get away from daily life for a while. However, throw an infant or a toddler into the mix, and suddenly the quick weekend trip to visit relatives can turn into a daunting task filled with lots of gear and limited opportunity for your baby to move freely. When planning a trip, we don’t always realize how travel itself, as well as being in a new place, can limit your baby’s opportunity to move around and feel uncontained. This is especially true of very young babies who aren’t mobile yet.

Whether you are planning a quick trip into town or an excursion across the world, here are some tips to keep your baby moving while you are away from home.

BY PLANE OR BY CAR If your trip involves driving, a car seat is a confining must for your little one. Take breaks at rest areas with ample outdoor space. Even if you only have a few minutes, your baby will appreciate having some time to stretch out on a blanket, roll around or just enjoy a change in his surroundings.

If you’re traveling by plane, consider skipping the snapand-go car seat in the airport in favor of a baby carrier. This option allows your baby to use her muscles and experience changes in direction while you walk around. By wearing your baby, you will not only free up your hands as you rush through the airport, but you will also allow your baby to experience changes in her head and body position as you lean over, squat down or shift the weight of your body.

These small and large changes stimulate your child’s vestibular system, which is a sensory system responsible for telling us about movement, balance and where we are in space. This kind of stimulation can be helpful in encouraging your child to be comfortable with movement, and the closeness the carrier provides is comforting for many babies.

Carriers come in many varieties. Wraps, slings, soft-structured carriers and frame backpacks can all be comfortably worn for

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short or long periods, and offer different benefits for your baby.

Also, when you’re packing, throw a small blanket into your diaper bag. During layovers or long waits at the airport, you can lay a blanket down on the floor and let your baby watch the hustle and bustle while lying, sitting or rolling around on her own.

FINDING TIME TO PLAY When we are away from home, it’s easy to get out of our routines and forget about the importance of free play for very young babies. Between snuggles with family and friends, or exploring the new country you’ve never been to, it’s easy to see why your baby may not have a lot of time for regular daily play.

Sneak in some opportunities for tummy time, an important developmental position for your baby. Tummy time helps develop the neck, shoulder, back and hip muscles. Developing these muscles will enable your child to roll, sit, crawl and walk. Tummy time also offers your baby a new position from which to work on visual skills, coordination and balance reactions.

While you are on the go, also try carrying your baby belly down, like a football under one arm. When you sit down, lay your baby on his belly on your lap. You can even cross your legs to create an incline, which can make it easier for your baby to play on his tummy while on your lap.

Although traveling with a baby typically adds gear and stress, it can also provide a wonderful opportunity for sharing new places and people with your baby. With a little thoughtful planning, you and your baby can enjoy traveling and exploring together.

Rebecca Quinones and Rachel Gandy are founders of Babies On The MOVE, a Cary-based organization committed to helping children excel in motor development with in-home pediatric physical therapy and community-based infant movement classes for children of all abilities. Learn more at babiesonthemoverdu.com.

UNDERSTANDING KIDS

Helping Children While Traveling

BY LUCY DANIELS CENTER STAFF

S

ome parents may find that their children become more sensitive or hyper in new situations, or when routines change.

This month, we will share our understanding of changes in children’s behavior in the context of family travel. While this understanding of behavior is not limited to traveling, we will use the emergence of new behaviors while traveling as an example of how to help a child understand that their behavior is often related to how they are feeling.

UNDERSTANDING ANXIETY Anxiety is a general word for when something feels uncomfortable or unsafe. For young children, safety comes in many forms, including the safety they feel from their parents’ comfort and the predictability of their daily routine. Some children feel less safe when they are faced with unknown or unpredictable situations.

Some of these children are able to cope easily without noticeable changes in their behavior, while others struggle to keep a handle on their behavior and their reactions to the changes.

Image courtesy of Logistock/Shutterstock.com

CHANGES IN BEHAVIOR USUALLY INDICATE CHANGES IN FEELINGS Sometimes the reason for a change in behavior is clear: for example, when a child becomes upset because he doesn’t want to stop playing on the playground. Other times, changes in behavior are not so obvious. When more perplexing changes occur, it can be helpful to first consider whether something in the child’s life has recently changed, or is about to change. It is helpful to keep in mind that alterations in behavior do not always indicate that a child feels negatively about the upcoming trip; instead, he or she may be having difficulty coping with mixed feelings or the unknowns about the trip.

HELPING CHILDREN RECOGNIZE THEIR BEHAVIOR AND FEELINGS In many cases, fears can be dispelled by understanding them and by having thoughtful conversations about those fears.

Children benefit from parents who can help them recognize that changes in their behavior often have something to do with how they are feeling. Once parents reflect on the circumstances that might be causing the changes, they can begin to talk with their child about what they see. In doing so, parents not only help organize the behaviors and feelings for their child, but also open up the opportunity to think together about how the child feels in various situations. Parents can start a conversation about this by making comments such as, “I’ve noticed you’ve been having a harder time listening lately. I know our trip is coming up soon and that might be on your mind. You might be excited, but you might also have some questions about what it will be like. I can tell you more about that.”

WHEN TO SEEK HELP In some cases, this type of support is not enough, and some of the behaviors described above persist in everyday life rather than being limited to a more obvious change, such as a trip. In such cases, feelings and worries interfere with a child’s ability to manage his or her behaviors on a regular basis. If you have unanswered questions about your child’s ability to cope with the ups and downs of life, a qualified mental health professional may be able to help you develop effective ways to help and support your child.

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. carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

31

TECH TALK

Tech Tips for Family Travel Success

BY LAURA TIERNEY

T

here’s nothing like a family vacation to help us unwind, strengthen bonds and create memories. In addition to making travel plans, many parents think ahead about how much technology — if any — they should allow during family vacations. After all, we want to unplug and relax, not stare at our screens the entire trip.

Let’s face it, downloading a movie for the kids while stuck in endless traffic or hanging out in a hotel room is pretty convenient. So, how can today’s parents strike the right balance between screen time and family time? Follow these four simple guidelines.

Ask for kids’ permission before posting photos.

Family trips create a multitude of photo opportunities. You may think the picture you snapped of your kids sleeping in the backseat is adorable but, chances are, they do not. The older your kids get, the more sensitive you need to be about getting their permission before posting to social media. Explain what it is about a particular photograph of your child that you like and makes you want to share it on social media. In addition, ensure that your photos show only what you don’t mind the world knowing about, including your current location and the fact that you are away from home.

Designate family tech-free times.

Family vacations provide the perfect time to rest and restore. So set your email to “out of office,” turn on your phone’s “do not disturb” feature and prepare to unplug. Some families like to implement tech-free days, or portions of days. Be sure to reveal the plan in advance, so the focus will be purely on fun, adventure, exploration and family interaction — and not on creating Instagram-worthy pictures.

Another idea: Consider using airplane mode. One mom we work with

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allows her kids to bring phones along on special outings so they can take pictures, but they must put their phones on airplane mode. This has multiple benefits: The kids can still access their cameras, they aren’t burning through data and, best of all, they eliminate the constant distraction of rings, pings and dings.

No phone behind the wheel — period.

Need to rely on Google maps? No problem. Have your partner or child be your co-pilot. Received a text? Cool. Ask your co-pilot to respond on your behalf or, better yet, activate the “Do Not Disturb” feature while driving. Kids follow our examples more than our words. Set the example that the driver doesn’t touch the phone, no matter what.

With these tech travel tips, you can enjoy the best of both worlds while soaking up the best of family time.

Laura Tierney, a digital native who got her first phone at age 13, is founder and president of The Social Institute, which offers students positive ways to handle one of the biggest drivers of their social development: social media. She also recently became a mom. Learn more at thesocialinstitute.com.

Image courtesy of Maria Gerasimova/Shutterstock.com

Embrace technology for good.

Empower your kids to help plan your trip itinerary by researching local culture, cuisine and activities. You can also have each family member create and share a music playlist during the trip. That way, kids can expose parents to songs by their favorite artists, while parents share theirs with the kids, too.

FATHER FIGURING

BY PATRICK HEMPFING

Image courtesy of Glenda/Shutterstock.com

M

y 10-year-old daughter, Jessie, doesn’t seem to understand the simplest of phrases. She is a strong reader and a good writer, so she obviously has command of the English language. That’s why I’m baffled by her inability to comprehend clear sentences such as: “Jessie, make your bed.”

“Clean up your room, Jessie.”

“You have 10 minutes to get ready before it’s time to leave.”

Doesn’t Jessie understand the language I speak? Of course she does, and I’m sure I’m not the only parent who utters the above requests — often.

But, I wonder, why is it that my words don’t have the intended effect?

During a recent game of basketball in the driveway, I used the word “B-ball.” Jessie’s eyes squinted like someone had just scratched a chalkboard with his or her fingernails.

“B-ball?”

Apparently, there are times when the words from my mouth don’t settle well on Jessie’s ears. She tells me it’s so “15th century,” “kind of annoying” and “a little bit embarrassing.”

I know I’m an older dad, but “15th century”? I’ve thought about confining her in the “dungeon” of her messy room until she manages to clean it, but I never stated it.

Perhaps I could say, “Oh, tween daughter, when your clothes disembark from your body, please have them make their way to the hamper in an orderly fashion to await their date with our high-efficiency, front-loading washing machine.” Is that 21st-century language?

Or, as I stand by the door awaiting the pleasure of Jessie’s company on the drive to school, I could inquire, “Wherefore art thou, daughter?” Now I’m talking 15th century (or at least the 1500s)!

My attempt at humor would likely not impress Jessie. Yet, on a serious note, I don’t want to have a communication gap with my daughter, and I certainly don’t want my language to embarrass her — especially in front of her friends. So, I’m thankful Jessie expressed her true thoughts. I want her to share her feelings with her mom and me in a respectful tone. Keeping an open path of communication between us will only become more important over the coming years.

The key point I have learned from Jessie’s comments is that my choice of words matters. Lately, I’ve been thinking about how I express myself, and if there are ways I can do it better. I like to be funny and make people laugh. Perhaps I go too far sometimes, talk too much, or even repeat requests (“Clean your room”) or thoughts (“She was just my little baby”) too many times. And I know that when I’m stressed, I transmit it to others by talking too much and too fast. So, I’m going to try to be more intentional with my language, though I realize that every word, phrase or sentence I speak will not please everyone.

I’m reminded of the time I concluded a column with, “I kissed my sleeping angel on the forehead.”

“Dad, I don’t like sleeping angel.”

My mouth dropped. What’s wrong with sleeping angel? It’s hard for a dad to keep up with the sensibilities of a young daughter, even if he tries. At least I didn’t say “princess.”

Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting and auditing before he became a father at age 44.

He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and author of “MoMENts: A Dad Holds On,” available on Amazon. Learn more about him at patrickhempfing.com.

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

33

COLLEGE TRANSITIONS

3 Reasons American Students Should Consider Attending College in the UK

BY DAVE BERGMAN, ED.D.

E

ven the brightest and most worldly college-bound American

1999, the three-year bachelor’s degree is standard practice across

teens are not usually able to name more than a handful of

the entire European Union. Students considering studying in

universities in the United Kingdom. Sure, there’s Oxford,

Europe are often drawn to the “cheat code” aspect of a three-year

Cambridge, the London School of Economics and … well,

degree, which affords them more options for gap years or to gain

the list dies off after that.

Yet, there are close to 400 universities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and plenty of them crack lists of the

work experience after graduation. Of course, a three-year degree also comes with significant financial implications, which brings us to our next factor.

University College London, University of Edinburgh, King’s College

It Can Be Cheaper Than Attending College in the U.S.

London, University of Manchester, University of Bristol and

There are 169 private colleges and universities in the U.S. that cost

University of Southampton are among the top institutions of higher

more than $60,000 per year to attend (including tuition, room and

education anywhere on the globe.

board, and other fees); and 79 institutions cost more than $70,000

So, how do you know if studying in the U.K. might be an

per year, which equates to $280,000 for a four-year bachelor’s

appealing option for your student? We’ll cover three main topics

degree. Fortunately, many more affordable public options exist

that strike at the core differences between an American degree

that allow residents to take advantage of in-state discounts. While

program and one in the U.K.

universities in the U.K. actually average higher tuition than their American counterparts, the ceiling price tends to be much lower,

Earn a Three-Year Bachelor’s Degree

even for international students (such as your student), who are

Believe it or not, the four-year bachelor’s degree is primarily an

charged a higher rate. Non-EU students (again, your student) are

American phenomenon. Thanks to the Bologna Declaration, an

generally charged somewhere between $9,000-$31,000 in annual

agreement signed by 29 European countries (including the U.K.) in

tuition. This includes some of the best schools the continent has

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

Image courtesy of 3dfoto/Shutterstock.com

top schools in the entire world. The Imperial College London,

to offer, such as the University of Glasgow or University College

reason for those entering college as “undecided” to remain close

London, which each charge around $20,000 per year, roughly

to home. On the other hand, those students who know what

$15,000 less than the average private American university.

they want to study will love being able to delve right into their concentration area as first-year undergraduates.

Greater Emphasis on One’s Major

Adventurous American high schoolers should explore the

In the U.S., plowing through a series of required courses in areas

possibility of spending three years abroad pursuing a bachelor’s

that may be of little interest is an immutable staple of the college

degree in the U.K. It’s far less cost-prohibitive than many believe, and

experience. For better or worse, American students who want to

those who enter college 100 percent certain of their path of study

study communications are usually forced to take a couple of science

can immediately begin an in-depth study in their area of interest.

courses, and engineering students must dip their toes into poetry Dave Bergman, Ed.D., is a co-founder of College Transitions, a team of

who prefer to immerse themselves more exclusively in their chosen

college planning experts committed to guiding families through the

area of study will greatly prefer the structure of a U.K. degree

college admissions process. He is also co-author of “The Enlightened

program. Unlike in America, where students can wait until after

College Applicant: A New Approach to the Search and Admissions

sophomore year to declare a major, EU students enter the university

Process.” Learn more at collegetransitions.com.

Image courtesy of kaligraf/Shutterstock.com

and sociology. While a well-rounded education has its merits, those

with their major already selected. Of course, this is a compelling

FAMILY SERIES 20182019

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35

EXCURSION

Greenville, South Carolina This small, foothills town delivers big fun for families

BY KRISTINA HERNANDEZ

F

rom parks, playgrounds and trails, to museums, restaurants and festivals, Greenville, South Carolina, located about four hours from the Triangle, has plenty to offer families for a day long or weekend excursion.

EXPLORE AND PICNIC AT FALLS PARK Spend some time at iconic Falls Park, where the 355-foot-long pedestrian Liberty Bridge spans Reedy River Falls. Grab a loaf of stecca bread from the Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery, along with local fruit, meat, vegetables and homemade cookies to create an enviable picnic lunch to enjoy at the park. Depending on the time of year, you may be entertained by an artist creating magnificent paintings during Artisphere (May 10-12, 2019), Greenville’s annual art festival; rubber ducks racing down waterfalls at the Reedy River Duck Derby (May 4, 2019), a derby duck race benefiting the Rotary Club of Greenville Evening; or restaurants lining Main Street during one of the largest food and music festivals in the upstate and one of the most popular in the Southeast, Fall for Greenville (Oct. 11-13, 2019).

Greenville. Ride north up to Furman University, where you can feed the ducks swimming on campus, or ride south to Falls Park to see the waterfalls.

MICE ON MAIN For fun at no cost, stroll along Main Street and look for nine Mice on Main. These small bronze mice statues are inspired by the classic book “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown. Children can use clues (available at miceonmain.com/mousehunthints.html) to see if they can spot the mice throughout the downtown area.

STROLL THE ZOO The Greenville Zoo houses giraffes, lions, birds, mammals and snakes, and takes about an hour-and-a-half to walk through. In 2018, the zoo welcomed a baby giraffe, orangutan and red panda cubs. A new lions’ den, which could become a breeding center, should be ready by mid-2019. Tickets cost $9.75 for adults and $6.50 for children ages 3-15. Children ages 2 and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. Be sure to stop by Cleveland Park, which has free playground areas right outside the zoo.

TAKE A BIKE RIDE If you’re feeling adventurous, rent bikes at Reedy Rides and ride on the 20-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail that runs through the heart of

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF THE UPSTATE If it’s raining during your excursion to Greenville, head to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, a Smithsonian-affiliated

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experience located downtown. The museum offers three floors of endless learning and entertainment. Exhibits include a studio with a green screen where kids can pretend to be news anchors, an art studio, an outdoor playground designed by Michelin, a water feature offering information about the Reedy River, a music room with a variety of instruments, and Grandma Betty’s Farm, which was designed for children under age 5. The museum is best for kids ages 12 and younger. Expect to spend several hours there.

Admission costs $10 for adults and $9 for children ages 1-15. Babies under age 1 are admitted for free.

WATCH PLANES LAND AND TAKE OFF Runway Park, which sits next to Greenville Downtown Airport, offers a short track that is perfect for kids who want to ride a small bike or ride-on toy. It also has a shelter. Enjoy a meal at the adjacent Runway Cafe.

TAKE A HIKE Greenville is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is within an hour of a variety of hiking trails and lakes suitable for kayaking and swimming. Paris Mountain State Park is 15 minutes from downtown Greenville and features a lake, trails for all skill levels and a playground. Table Rock State Park includes a campground, waterfalls, a playground, a lake and trails. The Carrick Creek Trail is less than 2 miles long and ideal for smaller kids. It travels past waterfalls and features kid-friendly water crossings.

Rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at Lake Jocassee, about

80 minutes from Greenville, then spend the day on the crystal clear lake that looks like something you might see on a postcard.

Kristina Hernandez lives in Greenville with her husband and two daughters, and is an amateur outdoorswoman who loves exploring the mountains, lakes and trails.

PLAN YOUR TRIP Visit these websites to learn more about Greenville: • visitgreenvillesc.com • greenvillesc.gov • kiddingaroundgreenville.com • greenvillezoo.com

PICTURED ABOVE: Downtown Greenville offers parks, playgrounds, museums and more.

Photo courtesy of Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com PICTURED ON THE LEFT: Locals and visitors alike love the annual Duck Derby, during which 10,000 rubber ducks race down the waterfalls at Falls Park in downtown Greenville.

Photo courtesy of Kristina Hernandez Kiden is one of the Greenville Zoo’s newest additions, born Jan. 31, 2018.

Photo courtesy of Kristina Hernandez This popular, free splash pad in downtown Greenville sits next to the Reedy River.

Photo courtesy of Kristina Hernandez carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

37

Residential & Day Camps June 17 to July 26, 2019 PreK - High School

Sum@mer

All-girl and coed programs

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program

JOIN US

stay in the know 06.17–08.16.2019

Hands-on summer camps for kids ages 5–16 taught by professional artists artspacenc.org

THANKS

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41

CALENDAR MARCH 2019

BY JANICE LEWINE

OUR PICKS Kite Festivals | March 16 and 31 The winds of March provide the perfect opportunity to fly a colorful kite in North Carolina’s blue skies. Let yours soar alongside others at the Town of Cary’s 24th Annual Kite Festival March 16, 12:30-3 p.m., at Bond Park. The event features contests, concessions and expert kite-flying advice.

Photo courtesy of the Durham Arts Council

(The rain date is March 17.) Carrboro’s Kite Fly, which draws hundreds of families each year to Hank Anderson Park, is March 31, 1-4 p.m. Admission is FREE for both festivals. townofcary.org/recreation-enjoyment/events/festivals/kite-

Photos courtesy of Scott Muthersbaugh of Perfecta Visuals

festival and carrbororec.org.

Children’s Festival | March 16 Northgate Mall and the Durham Arts Council team up to offer families a fun-filled afternoon, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., with face painting, balloon animals, a DJ, food, vendors specializing in kids’ activities and more. Admission is FREE, but certain proceeds from the festival benefit the Durham Arts Council.

Northgate Mall is located at 1058 W. Club Blvd., Durham. northgatemall.com/event/council-childrens-festival.

Veterinary Medicine Open House | March 30 Animal lovers of all ages can learn what it takes to become an animal doctor at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Open House, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Go behind the scenes at the school, meet the school’s faculty and students, and see a variety of live animals up close. Admission is FREE. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver during the event, and the school recommends that visitors wear closed-toe shoes. The College of Veterinary Medicine is located at 1060 William Moore Photos courtesy of John Joyner/ NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine

Dr., Raleigh. cvm.ncsu.edu/open-house.

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

CALENDAR MARCH 2019

BY JANICE LEWINE

PERFORMANCES “TAP DOGS”

MARCH 8 – Sanderson High School, 5500 Dixon Dr., Raleigh.

7:30 p.m. $10/adult; one youth admitted free per paying adult. Purchase tickets online. Raleigh Community Orchestra performs the music of princesses, pirates, heroes and more. raleighcommunityorchestra.org.

MARCH 19-20 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. 7:30 p.m. $35 and up. Purchase tickets online.

An adrenaline-pumped cast turns traditional tap dancing upside-down. dpacnc.com/events/detail/tap-dogs and ticketmaster.com.

“THE QUEEN’S CARTOONISTS”

“RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S THE KING AND I”

MARCH 8 – Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. 7:30 p.m. $23-$27/person. Purchase tickets online. Enjoy “Looney Tunes,” “Merry Melodies,” “The Simpsons” and Disney cartoons set to live music. townofcary.org and etix.com.

“BOB MARLEY’S THREE LITTLE BIRDS” MARCH 8-24 – Raleigh Little Theatre, 301 Pogue St., Raleigh.

See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $18 for adults, $12 for ages 12 and younger. Ziggy is a shy boy who would rather stay at home and watch TV than explore his island of Jamaica. With some help from his friend Nansi, he realizes that the real adventures are found outside. Their adventure is enlivened by songs of renowned reggae artist Bob Marley. A sensory-friendly performance takes place March 30 at 1 p.m. raleighlittletheatre.org/shows/bob-marleys-three-little-birds.

MARCH 19-24 – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $25 and up. Set in 1860’s Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher. nctheatre.com/shows/king-and-i and ticketmaster.com.

NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY PRESENTS “THE MUSIC OF QUEEN” MARCH 22-23 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 8 p.m. Purchase tickets online. The North Carolina Symphony performs Queen’s timeless rock songs. ncsymphony.org and ticketmaster.com.

SESAME STREET LIVE: “LET’S PARTY”

“CELTIC WOMAN: ANCIENT LAND”

MARCH 8-9 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $35 and up. Learn new songs and sing along to familiar favorites with Oscar and Cookie Monster; build a snowman with Elmo; flap your wings with Big Bird; marvel at Abby’s magic; and be amazed when Super Grover flies. dpacnc.com/events/ detail/sesame-street and ticketmaster.com.

MARCH 23 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. 7:30 p.m. $43 and up. Purchase tickets online. Celtic Woman celebrates Ireland’s rich musical and cultural heritage, while continuing its remarkable legacy of

introducing some of the country’s most talented singers and musicians onto the world stage. dpacnc.com/events/detail/ celtic-woman-6 and ticketmaster.com.

“THE TRIUMPH OF RAPUNZEL” MARCH 24 – Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. 3 p.m. $8/person. Purchase tickets online. Young musicians, actors, and artists perform two Grimm fairytales. townofcary.org and etix.com.

“WILD ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS” WITH DAN BREEDING MARCH 24 – Century Center, 100 N. Green St., Carrboro.

2:30 p.m. $3/person. Dan Breeding’s beloved animals entertain all ages. carrbororec.org.

CAPTAIN JIM PERFORMS MARCH 27 – Century Center, 100 N. Green St., Carrboro.

10:30 a.m. $3/person. Captain Jim performs magic and delivers a few words of wisdom. carrbororec.org.

NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY PRESENTS “CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS” MARCH 30 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 1 and 4 p.m. $27/person. Purchase tickets online.

Larger-than-life puppets and the North Carolina Symphony bring the animal kingdom to life in Saint-Saens’ timeless musical suite. ncsymphony.org and ticketmaster.com.

Photo courtesy of ©Chris Richardson

“MYSTERIES, LEGENDS & FAIRY TALES”

“PUDDLES PITY PARTY” MARCH 11 – Fletcher Theater, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 8 p.m. $42 and up. Purchase tickets online. See Puddles the Clown, who competed on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” in season 12, deliver heartfelt anthems in a show that mixes humor with tender moments. dukeenergycenterraleigh.com/events/ puddles-pity-party-bob-nocek-presents and ticketmaster.com.

CARY BALLET COMPANY PRESENTS “SPRING WORKS” MARCH 16 – Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $18-$22/ person. Talented dance students perform excerpts from “Sleeping Beauty,” “Coppélia,” “Swan Lake” and “Paquita,” as well as new contemporary pieces. caryballetcompany.org and etix.com.

An adrenaline-pumped “TAP DOGS” cast turns traditional tap dancing upside-down.

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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CALENDAR MARCH 2019

1 FRIDAY 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. Register online. bounceu.com/apex.

2 SATURDAY Celebrate Seuss! Walnut Creek Wetland Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh. 10-11:30 a.m. $3. Celebrate Theodor Seuss Geisel’s birthday by reading one of Dr. Seuss’ many creative stories. Make a related craft, take a short walk, enjoy a Seussical snack and learn some interesting facts about this talented writer. Ages 3-12 with adult. Choose course #230346. reclink. raleighnc.gov.

“Girl Talk”: A Workshop for Mothers and Daughters. Poe Center for Health Education, 224 Sunnybrook Rd., Raleigh. 9-11 a.m. Free. Moms and their daughters take part in a workshop that addresses the timely topic of adolescent growth and development, and the physical, social and emotional changes that girls experience during puberty.

Email r.pittman@poehealth.org or call 919-231-4006, ext. 322, to register. poehealth.org.

Saturdays at the Old Mill Tours.

Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. Half-hour tours take place from 1-3 p.m. $5/ adult, $3 ages 7-16. Free for ages 6 and younger. View the main power drive and milling machinery while exploring the mill’s history and aspects of its preservation. Registration is encouraged. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Snow Day at Waverly Place.

Waverly Place, 302 Colonades Way, Cary.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free; tickets required for snow sledding. Snow-loving families enjoy sledding hills, in-store promotions, giveaways, cornhole and a giant Connect Four game. Purchase tickets online for a sledding pass, which is good for one hour. eventbrite.com.

Wake Forest Mardi Gras. Downtown Wake Forest. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Celebrate

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DAILY

Mardi Gras with a walking parade, children’s activities and assorted contests.

All ages. wakeforestnc.gov/wake-forestmardi-gras.aspx.

3 SUNDAY Playing With the Elements: Firemaking. Walnut Creek Wetland Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh. 2-3:30 p.m. $3/child. Learn how to make a fire through safe, hands-on learning. Dress for the outdoors and to get messy or wet.

Ages 7-11 years Register online. Choose course #230349. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

4 MONDAY History Detective Mill Tour. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. All ages. 11 a.m.-noon. $5/ adult, $3 ages 7-16. Free for ages 6 and younger. Solve puzzles, hunt for clues and investigate the mystery of milling with historical artifacts. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Mill Stories in Motion. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 10-11 a.m. Free. Examine methods of transportation from days gone by. Ages 7-14. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Numbers in Nature. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Ages 18 months-3 years with caregiver practice numbers through center-based activities and develop fine motor skills using natural objects.

Registration required. Meet at the Upper Pavilion. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

Parent/Child Clay Workshop: Lidded Pots. Durham Arts Council Clay Studio, 1058 W. Club Blvd., Durham.

10-11:30 a.m. or 4-5:30 p.m. $15/child.

Parent and child use slab construction to build a light switch cover and decorate it.

Register online. durhamarts.org.

5 TUESDAY JCRA Homeschool Day. JC Raulston Arboretum, 4415 Beryl Rd., Raleigh.

Registration required online for one-hour sessions, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $5/child member;

MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

$7/child nonmember. Visit hands-on stations to learn about a variety of spring topics. Grades K-5. jcra.ncsu.edu/events/ details.php?ID=1901.

Parent/Child Clay Workshop: Lidded Pots. See March 4. 4-5:30 p.m.

Soil, Not Dirt. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 11 a.m.-noon. Free.

Play a game and explore the three types of soil particles, classify soil using the ribbon test, and discover plants and animals lurking under the surface. Pot a flower for a spring garden. All ages with adult. Meet at the upper pavilion. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

6 WEDNESDAY Magic of Soil. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 11 a.m.-noon.

Free. Learn how to plant a garden, enjoy a “dirty” snack and choose a flower to plant. Ages 3-5 with adult. Registration required. Meet at the upper pavilion. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

Storytime for Tots: Wind Power.

Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. 1-2 p.m. Free. Learn about air, and make boats and pinwheels.

Ages 2-5. Meet at the Beech Shelter. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree.

7 THURSDAY Adult Workshop: “Adolescent Brain Development and the Role of Social Media.” Poe Center for Heath Education, 224 Sunnybrook Rd., Raleigh. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Learn about current research on adolescent brain development and teen risk perception.

Advance registration required online. poehealth.org/events.

Empty Bowls 2019. Durham Convention Center, 301 W. Morgan St., Durham.

6-8 p.m. $20-$40/person. Sample and vote on soup from some of Durham’s best restaurants, and take home an artisan bowl. Purchase tickets online.

Organized by Urban Ministries of Durham. umdurham.org.

Turtle Splash! Countdown at the Pond.

Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake

Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 11 a.m.-noon. Free.

Learn about North Carolina turtles and make a turtle craft to take home. All ages with adult. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

8 FRIDAY Astronomy Night. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 6-7:30 p.m. $3/person. View the moon, stars and more with the preserve’s telescope. Ages 5 and older with adult. Choose course #232020. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

Geocaching 101. American Tobacco Trail, 1305 White Oak Church Rd., Apex. 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Learn what geocaching is and head out to find a geocache in the park.

GPS units and instruction provided, or take your own unit or smartphone with a geocache app. Ages 6 and older. Meet at the picnic tables at the White Oak parking area. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/att.

JCRA Garden Buds: Feathered Friends.

JC Raulston Arboretum, 4415 Beryl Rd., Raleigh. 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5/child member; $7/child nonmember. Learn about birds through self-guided activities, garden walks and stories. Ages 3-5 with adult. Register online. jcra.ncsu.edu/ events/details.php?ID=1898.

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

Cary Towne Centre, 1105 Walnut St., Cary. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Shop for kids’ clothing, maternity wear, housewares, toys, baby equipment, cribs, bikes and more. kidseverywear.com.

Kids Night Out. Durham Arts Council Clay Studio, 1058 W. Club Blvd., Durham.

6:30-8 p.m. $18/child. Kids enjoy making pottery while parents enjoy a night out.

Register online. durhamarts.org.

9 SATURDAY BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Expo. Raleigh Convention Center, 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. 9-5 p.m. $15/person. View LEGO creations and enjoy building zones, guest speakers and vendors. Purchase tickets online for either the 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-5 p.m. session. brickuniverse.org/raleigh.

Curiosity Club: Tadpoles. 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. Choose course #121607. classweb.townofcary.org.

Dr. Seuss Wagon Ride. Harris Lake County Park, 2112 County Park Dr., New Hill.

2-3:30 p.m. Free. Celebrate “The Lorax” on a wagon ride to the park’s longleaf forest. Learn about the similarities between Truffula trees and longleaf pine trees. All ages. Meet at the Loblolly Shelter. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/harrislake.

Kids EveryWEAR Consignment Sale.

See March 8. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturdays at the Old Mill Tours.

See March 2.

Tales and Trails: Stories Around the Campfire. Stevens Nature Center/ Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 6-7:30 p.m. $18/resident, $24/ nonresident. Discover what’s happening as the sun sets and listen to stories around a campfire. All ages with adult.

Register online. Choose course #121587. classweb.townofcary.org.

10 SUNDAY BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Expo.

See March 9.

Hemlock Nature Quest: Wetland Survey.

Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Raleigh. 2-4 p.m. $12/resident, $16/nonresident. Search for salamanders, crayfish and more.

Register online. Choose course #121619. classweb.townofcary.org.

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

See March 8. 1-6 p.m.

Salamanders on the American Tobacco Trail. American Tobacco Trail, 1309 New Hill-Olive Chapel Rd., Apex. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. Learn about the life cycle of salamanders and search the vernal pools along the trail for eggs and larvae. All ages with adult. Meet at the New Hill parking

area. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/att.

11 MONDAY Kids Discover Nature: “Dandelions, Stars in the Grass.” Harris Lake County Park, 2112 County Park Dr., New Hill.

11 a.m.-noon. Free. Read the book by Mia Posada and learn about dandelions.

Create a field of dandelions as a craft.

Ages 1-6 with adult. Meet at the Cypress Shelter. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/harrislake.

Kids EveryWear Consignment Sale.

See March 8. 10-8 p.m.

12 TUESDAY Homeschool/Track Out Series: Fish Frenzy. Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. 1-4 p.m. Free. Learn about fish anatomy, survival adaptations, aquatic food chains and more. The first two hours of this program focuses on activities and games; participants fish in the final hour of the program (adult accompaniment required for fishing). Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree.

Nature Peekers: Little Cloud. Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh. 10:30-11 a.m. Free.

Read the book by Eric Carle and make a cloud craft to take home. Registration required. ap.m.activecommunities.com/ wakeparks/Activity_Search/3665.

Chapel Hill Pediatrics

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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

13 WEDNESDAY Fairies and Trolls. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 12:45- 2:15 p.m. $4/child. Ages 3-5 and caregiver make a house for a mouse, bug, toad or woodland fairy. Wear fairy wings and walk the trails. Stories and natural materials provided. Register online. Choose course #231343. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

Nature Nerds. Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. Noon1 p.m. Free. Search for amphibians, birds, insects and spiders with park staff. Ages 9 and older. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree.

919-942-4173

Open daily including weekends and holidays.

2 locations Chapel Hill: 205 Sage Road., Suite 100 Durham: 249 East NC Hwy 54, Suite 230

www.chapelhillpeds.com carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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CALENDAR MARCH 2019 Specialized Recreation: Spring Flowers and Nature. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Raleigh. 4-5 p.m. $2/resident, $3/nonresident. Ages 11 and older with special needs look for signs of early spring.

Register online. Choose course #121544. classweb.townofcary.org.

14 THURSDAY Open Bounce. See March 1.

15 FRIDAY Author Visits. Quail Ridge Books, 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd., Raleigh. 7 p.m. Free.

James Riley speaks about his new book, “The Revenge of Magic.” Ages 8 and older. quailridgebooks.com/event/riley19.

Night Out in Nature. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Raleigh. 6-9 p.m. $15/resident, $19/ nonresident. Kids spend a night out in nature making memories and new friends in an old-fashioned, camp-style program.

Ages 8-12. Register online. Choose course #121593. classweb.townofcary.org.

Twilight Walk. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 6:30-8 p.m. $2/person. Take a walk with a park naturalist to explore the woods and fields at sunset. All ages. Choose course #232022. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

16 SATURDAY Arbor Day Celebration. Downtown Cary.

1-3 p.m. Free. Enjoy games, music, food and prizes. Take home a free tree and talk to a certified arborist. townofcary.org.

Chapel Hill-Durham Parents of Multiples Spring Sale. HillSong Church, 201 Culbreth Rd., Chapel Hill.

7:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Shop for kids’ clothing, shoes, maternity wear, baby equipment, toys and more. Many items are half-price from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Only cash and credit cards accepted. chdpom.com/consignment-sale.

Corn Grinding Demonstrations and Costumed Tours. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 10-4 p.m. $5/adult, $3 ages 7-16. Free for ages 6 and younger. Step

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back in time with 19th-century costumed interpreters and watch the millstones grind corn into meal. Registration encouraged. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Country Dancing in the Mill Yard.

Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. Noon-12:45 p.m.

Free. Join costumed interpreters Jon and Karena Potter in learning 19th-century country dances. Drop-in program. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Fairies and Trolls. See March 13.

10:30 a.m.-noon. Choose course code #231344. reclinkraleighnc.gov.

Family Wildlife Series: Duck, Duck, Goose. Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh.

2-3 p.m. Free. Compare different kinds of birds that live in aquatic habitats.

Ages 5 and older. Register online. activecommunities.com/wakeparks/ Activity_Search/3674.

Pot of Gold 5K. Knightdale Station Park, 810 N. First Avenue, Knightdale. 9 a.m.noon. $30. Dress up in your favorite Saint Patrick’s Day garb and take part in a race that benefits families coming out of homelessness. Dogs and strollers welcome. Register online. runsignup.com/ race/nc/knightdale/potofgold5k.

Upcycled Music. Walnut Creek Wetland Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh. 2-4 p.m. $4/person. Listen to the music of nature and learn about recycling. Make upcycled musical instruments and create songs together. Ages 6-12. Choose course #230362. reclinkraleighnc.gov.

Wacky Weather. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 1-3 p.m. Free. Learn about weather at the discovery table at the upper playground. No registration required. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

Walk in the Woods. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 10-11 a.m. Free.

Take a walk in the woods, and discover the animals and plants that call the park home. Ages 14 and older. No registration required. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

17 SUNDAY Babies On The MOVE: Mini Movers.

Open Arts, 1222 Copeland Oaks Dr.,

MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

Morrisville. 10-10:45 a.m. $24. Take part in a class that teaches individualized ways to foster motor development for newborns-6 months. Register online. babiesonthemoverdu.com.

Babies On The MOVE: 7 Months-New Walkers. Open Arts, 1222 Copeland Oaks Dr., Morrisville. 11-11:45 a.m. $24. Take part in a class that teaches individualized ways to foster motor development for a baby. Register online. babiesonthemoverdu.com.

Corn Grinding Demonstrations and Costumed Tours. See March 16.

1-4 p.m.

March Winds. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 2-3 p.m. Free. Learn what wind is, and how wildlife and plants use the wind to survive. Make a kite and fly it high in the sky. All ages with adult.

Meet at the upper pavilion. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

Plowing and Planting. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 1-5 p.m. Free. Visit a tabletop display to learn how farmers plowed the fields and planted crops in the 1800s, see sample farm artifacts, and plant a seed in a newspaper pot to take home. All ages. No registration required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

18 MONDAY American Sign Language Storytime With Carolina Friends School.

Orange County Public Library, 137 W. Margaret Ln., Hillsborough.

9-10 a.m. Free. Enjoy stories that incorporate sign language. For all ages. orangecountylibrary.org.

19 TUESDAY Candy Making Fun. Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 6-7 p.m. $18/resident, $23/ nonresident. Ages 11-17 create oldfashioned taffy and hard candy using ingredients like caramel, marshmallow and chocolate. Register online. Choose course #120979. classweb.townofcary.org.

Preschool Swamp Romp: Color and Camouflage. Walnut Creek Wetland

Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh. 11 a.m.noon. $2. Ages 2-6 and caregiver enjoy a craft, engaging activity and a guided walk through the wetland. Register online.

Choose course #230329. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

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 help a young child develop self-control. For families with children ages 3-6. Register online. projectenlightenment.wcpss.net.

20 WEDNESDAY Author Visits. Quail Ridge Books, 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd., Raleigh. 6:30 p.m.

Free. Tom Angleberger speaks about his book, “Didi Dodo, Future Spy: Recipe for Disaster.” Ages 7 and older. quailridgebooks.com/event/ angleberger19.

Equinox Astronomy. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh.

2-3:30 p.m. $4/child. Ages 8-13 investigate the equinox. Register online. Course code #232024. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

Specialized Recreation: Games.

Cary Senior Center, 120 Maury O’Dell Place, Cary. 6:30-7:30 p.m. $9/resident, $11/nonresident. Ages 11 and older with special needs enjoy team-building exercises and outdoor games. Register online. Choose course #121440. classweb.townofcary.org.

Welcome Spring! Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh.

2-3 p.m. Free. Learn about the vernal equinox and take a sensory hike around the millpond with a park naturalist. All ages with adult. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

21 THURSDAY Adult Workshop: E-Cigarettes 101.

Poe Center for Heath Education, 224 Sunnybrook Rd., Raleigh. 6:30-8 p.m.

Free. Adults take a look at the risk factors for e-cigarette use and the protective

CALENDAR MARCH 2019 factors that help prevent use. Registration required. poehealth.org/events.

Nailed It! Orange County Public Library, 137 W. Margaret Ln., Hillsborough. 4-5 p.m.

Free. Create edible masterpieces. Grades 3-5. Register by calling 919-245-2532. sorangecountylibrary.org.

Volunteer Workdays: Wildflower Watering Club. Stevens Nature Center/ Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Ages 2-5 and caregiver water plants in the native wildflower gardens. Register online.

Choose course #121559. classweb.townofcary.org.

Wee Wetland Walkers. Walnut Creek Wetland Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh.

11 a.m.-noon. Free. Join others for an easy-paced hike around the greenway accompanied by a naturalist. All ages.

Register online. Choose course #230344. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

Youth Program: Understanding Vaping. Poe Center for Heath Education, 224 Sunnybrook Rd., Raleigh. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Participants learn about the addictive nature of nicotine and how addiction impacts the brain. Learn risk factors for addictive behaviors, substance addiction warning signs, and the signs of a nicotine medical emergency. Register online. poehealth.org/events.

22 FRIDAY Signs of Spring. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 6-7 p.m. Free.

Discover budding trees during a walk around the pond. Decorate a flower pot and take home a flowering bulb. All ages with adult. Registration required.

Meet at the Heron Shelter. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

23 SATURDAY Artsy Owls. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 11 a.m.noon. Free. Learn about owls and make a craft. All ages with adult. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Community Resource Fair.

Duke Regional Hospital, 3643 N. Roxboro

St., Durham. 1-3 p.m. Free. Baby fair for women thinking about getting pregnant, currently pregnant or recently postpartum. cfm.duke.edu/family-medicine/ news-and-events/healthy-moms-healthybabies-community-resource-fair.

Junior Naturalist: Nighttime Nature.

Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 7-8 p.m. $8/resident, $10/nonresident. Participants develop their naturalist skills and understanding of local nature. Ages 5-8 with parent. Register online. Choose course #121675. classweb.townofcary.org.

Secretive Salamanders at Harris Lake County Park. Harris Lake County Park, 2112 County Park Dr., New Hill. 2-3 p.m. Free. Learn about salamanders and see some up close.

All ages. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/harrislake.

24 SUNDAY Chapel Hill/Carrboro CROP Hunger Walk.

Starts at Carrboro Town Commons, 301 W. Main St., Carrboro. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free; optional T-shirt purchase/ donation. Enjoy a fun-filled family- and dog-friendly event that winds through diverse neighborhoods and the UNCChapel Hill campus. Register online. crophungerwalk.org/chapelhillnc.

Fairy Houses and Toad Abodes.

Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 2-4 p.m. $4/child.

Ages 6-9 years make a house for a mouse, bug, toad or woodland fairy.

Natural materials provided. Register online. Choose course code #231345. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

25 MONDAY Raindrops and Rainbows. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex.

11 a.m.-noon. Free. Create a weather craft to celebrate the spring season.

Materials provided. All ages with adult. No registration required. Meet at the Cardinal Shelter. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

26 TUESDAY Mill Heritage and Local History Tour.

Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 2-3 p.m. $5/ adult, $3 ages 7-16. Free for ages 6 and younger. Watch a slideshow about the mill and witness the power of water as it turns the milling machinery. Registration encouraged. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

27 WEDNESDAY Lil Cooks in the Kitchen: “The First Egg Hunt.” Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 4-5:30 p.m. $23/resident, $30/ nonresident. Discover the joy of cooking with storybook characters. Ages 3-5 with caregiver. Register online. Choose course #120082. classweb.townofcary.org.

28 THURSDAY 4-H and Crispy Critters. Orange County Public Library, 137 W. Margaret Ln., Hillsborough. 4-5 p.m. Free. Welcome spring by making some fun rice-cereal critters with 4-H members. Grades 3-5. orangecountylibrary.org.

Specialized Recreation: Parent Workshop “Promoting Independence and Self-Advocacy.”

Cary Senior Center, 120 Maury O’Dell Place, Cary. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $11/resident, $15/nonresident. Parents learn skills to help their special needs child build confidence. Register online. Choose course #121426. classweb.townofcary.org.

Specialized Recreation: St. Paddy’s Day Bingo Party. Cary Senior Center, 120 Maury O’Dell Place, Cary. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $2/resident, $3/nonresident. Ages 11 and older with special needs enjoy a night of bingo, food and fun. Wear green clothing. Drinks and light snacks provided.

Register online. Choose course #121060. classweb.townofcary.org.

29 FRIDAY Inclusion Program: Spring Fling Dance. Century Center, 100 N. Greensboro St., Carrboro. 6-8:30 p.m. $3/ child. Ages 15 and older with disabilities enjoy dancing, music, games and

refreshments. Wear spring attire. Register online. carrbororec.org.

Signs of Spring. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh.

7-8 p.m. Free. Take a hike with a park naturalist to discover nature at night.

Ages 6 and older with adult. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill.

30 SATURDAY Exploring the Pond. Harris Lake County Park, 2112 County Park Dr., New Hill.

10- 11:30 a.m. Free. Discover the fascinating world of pond critters and view some under a microscope. All ages with adult. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/harrislake.

Free Community Health Fair.

First Cosmopolitan Church, 1515 Cross Links Rd., Raleigh. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

Enjoy a health fair featuring vendors, health screenings, face painting, child ID kits, children’s dental screenings and more. eventbrite.com.

31 SUNDAY Running Over Cancer 5K. WakeMed Soccer Park, 201 Soccer Park Dr., Cary.

2:30-4 p.m. $25-$35/person. Take part in a 5K to benefit the American Cancer Society. Register online. runningovercancer.com.

Salamander Sleuthing. Walnut Creek Wetland Park, 950 Peterson St., Raleigh.

2-3:30 p.m. $3/person. Learn about amphibians that call the park home. Dress to get wet. Take rain boots or borrow a pair from the park. Ages 5 and older.

Register online. Choose course #230358. reclink.raleighnc.gov.

Sensory Hike on the American Tobacco Trail. American Tobacco Trail, 1309 New Hill-Olive Chapel Rd., Apex.

2-3 p.m. Free. Use your senses to discover more about nature on an interactive hike along the trail. All ages with adult. Advance registration required online. wakegov.com/parks/att.

carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2019

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FACES & PLACES

Luke (6), of Morrisville, stands in front of a vibrant outdoor art exhibit at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh.

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

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MARCH 2019 | carolinaparent.com

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