nola family Parent Fearlessly
March 2020
Do Not Fear,
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SPOT LIGHT
Raintree
Children and Family Services
Over the 93 years that it has existed, Raintree Children and Family Services has been committed to providing support to local children and families — adding and adjusting services as the times change. More recently, this includes an increased focus on its Raintree Family Foster Care program and Raintree House, a group home for girls, 11–18, who are currently in the Louisiana foster care system.
Raintree also maintains a community of foster parents by facilitating the approval of foster care through monthly education classes and training. “Raintree is the village that tries to hold the family together,” says Giselle Boutte-Sparkman, a program case manager.
Raintree Children and Family Services began in 1926 after a group of Uptown women came together to build a home for orphaned infants. In the 1930s, it expanded to arranging adoptions for more than 150 babies. Maternity care for younger women during the 1950s and ‘60s followed. During the 1970s and ‘80s, the Raintree House was established and began providing services to teenaged girls in the foster care system.
Karen Dorsey has been part of that village for more than 10 years. After her own children were grown and out of the house, she realized she still had enough energy and love to care for more. She currently has one foster child, 9, living with her. It was only supposed to be two weeks; it’s been two years. But she doesn’t mind. Years before her current fostering, Dorsey adopted three siblings who are now 12, 15, and 17. She couldn’t bare to seperate them.
“There’s a lot of stigma around teenagers in foster care,” says Meghan Goldbeck-Chambers, development and communications coordinator for Raintree. “But these kids just need someone to believe in them.” This is exactly why this program exists. More than 4,000 children in Louisiana are in the foster care system, and Raintree’s mission is to match their residents with foster parents by providing therapeutic and private services and establishing foster parent care homes. “We’re a little different than traditional foster care,” Goldbeck-Chambers says.
Instead, Raintree evaluates each girl during its intake process — learning about any emotional or developmental issues and eating, health, and coping habits. A plan of action is then created, which could include therapy and medical care. All residents attend school or hold a job, depending on their age.
“I called Raintree and asked when will I be too old,” she says. Dorsey, who is 62, envisions fostering for as long as she can. And that’s perfect for her. GoldbeckChambers says that as long as you are in good health and provide a home, you’re never too old to foster. “People always ask me, ‘What’s it like being a foster parent?’” she says. “They don’t trust you in the beginning, but I make sure I’m a parent, not a friend. Be yourself. Give them rules and regulations. But children have memories; this is what they live on. Be a part of their memories.” Although partially funded by the State of Louisiana, Raintree relies on community support. It’s annual fundraising event, Paint the Town Green, is March 20. For more information, visit raintreeservices.org.
Tim Meyer is the managing editor for Nola Family and our sister publication, Nola Boomers.
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Working with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, Raintree Family Foster Care’s program is focused on developing and nurturing the child over being a holder until she is either placed in foster care, adopted, reunited with her family, or just ages out of the system.
Karen Dorsey became a proud foster parent after her own children grew up and she realized how much she still had to offer.
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nola family CONTENTS MARCH 2020
20 20 a nnu a l
M A P C L R I S E T M I NG S M U S SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION
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| march 2020
A FEW WORDS
4
5 From the Editor
EDUCATION & GUIDANCE
FEATURES
18 Learning Years Family Reading
3C It’s in Our DNA
10 Parenting Corner Saying You’re Sorry
Summer Camp is Different Here
8 Summer Camp Jobs
24 In the Know Family Classes and Workshops
From Campers to Counselors
ON THE COVER
What Do Parents Want Most?
Beckett Waller, 5, plays at the new inclusive playground in Lafitte Greenway. Photo by Twirl Photography.
Juul & Vaping
Teens are Being Targeted
14 Mom About Town Misti Medders
3 Spotlight Raintree Children & Family Services
20 Hip Grannie Teen Lounge
23 Gear to Get
16 Best Playgrounds Survey 12
IN EACH ISSUE
Great siblings, Flavored Cleaning Spray, & More
25 Out & About Who, What, When, & Where for Family Fun
FR OM THE EDITO R
Knowing Our Children I watched a movie a few months ago called “20th Century Women.” A single mother (Annette Bening) in a fit of self-doubt asks two younger women (Elle Fanning, Greta Gerwig) to help raise and bond with her teenage son in all the ways that she never can. A line from the movie, spoken by the mother about her son, has stuck with me ever since: “You get to see him out in the world, as a person,” she says. “I never will.” She’ll never get to understand him in the same ways the rest of the world might — as a friend, a partner, a co-worker, a confidant, a stranger — to really experience the person he’ll become, the person she helped mold. Instead, as his mother, she’ll always be his mother — a satellite that orbits his life, but never really able to land again. Watching from afar. My son is 8 years old. Right now, I get to help shape his opinions, his attitudes, his exposure to the world. We are a unit. But as he grows and becomes a teenager, he’ll have more and more experiences on his own and our unit will begin to separate. I’ll be the satellite orbiting his increasingly autonomous life. I’ll never really know what kind of a friend, husband, co-worker, or even the kind of dad he’ll be. I can observe, but I’ll never really know who he is in those quiet moments that happen between other people. Is it weird that this upsets me? I’m not really sure what I mean by “knowing him” as these things, but as his dad — mentor and protector — shouldn’t I be able to enjoy the fruit of my labor? I want to know him as the person he hopes he is or aspires to be, in addition to the person that’ll always be my whittle boy.
Parenting Fearlessly One Day At A Time,
Tim Meyer
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
But I guess that’s the purpose of this whole parenting thing — raising them with the best of intentions and then letting go. He’ll never experience all the things that also helps shape the people we become — first loves, broken hearts, cheating at something and feeling guilty, sneaking a cigarette, fist fighting a best friend over a betrayal, working hard for something and feeling proud, standing up for yourself, learning to say you’re sorry — if I’m always there. I’m his dad and I’ll always be his dad. And that’s enough.
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publisher/editor ANN BOWER HERREN
Contr ibutors
ann@nolafamily.com
managing editor TIM MEYER tim@nolafamily.com
PAT BLACKWELL, Ph.D., is a licensed developmental psychologist who has worked with families for over 30 years, and is the author of Nola Family’s award-winning “Learning Years” column.
office manager JENNY ZIGLIN jenny@nolafamily.com
advertising sales DURBAN ZAUNBRECHER durban@nolafamily.com
LAURA CLAVERIE, also known as Nola Family’s Hip Grannie, is a journalist who has written for local, regional, and national media.
JORDAN WHITE jordan@nolafamily.com
edit interns GRAHAM ANDREAE GABRIELLA KILLETT designer CAT LANDRUM 2ND STORY CREATIVE ad production SARA YOUNGBLOOD
LISA PHILLIPS, a licensed social worker and parent educator at The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital, is a contributor to the award-winning “Parenting Corner” column. She can be reached at 504.896.9591; chnola.org/ parentingcenter.
LINDSEY SAUCIER has a decade of experience as a writer and editor with daily newspapers and editorial magazines in New York City and the U.S. South.
contributing photography TWIRL PHOTOGRAPHY
KATE STEVENS is a freelance writer and frequent For reprint information, contact
contributor to our sister publication, Nola Boomers.
ann@nolafamily.com Business Office:
8131 Oak St., Ste. 500, New Orleans, LA 70118
504.866.0555
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| march 2020
A publication of
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march 2020 volume 14, issue 2 The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and/or contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine or its advertisers.
GRAHAM ANDREAE is our amazing editorial intern at Nola Family.
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On-the-Job CAMPER
Transitioning from camper to counselor seems like a natural step, but how is that move beneficial?
Walker Bazile began attending Kidcam Camp at Woodlake Estates Summer & Swim Club in Kenner at the age of 3. As he grew, he looked up to older counselors who knew how to provide structure and supervision, but who also made summer camp incredibly fun. Following in the footsteps of his father, Mario Bazile, then the owner of Kidcam Camp, Bazile always knew he would one day work as a camp counselor. “My goal was to get the green shirt and be the person campers look up to,” Bazile says, now 16, and a 10th-grade student at Brother Martin High School. For three years now, Bazile has worn the special green shirt that sets Kidcam staff and counselors apart from campers. He knows the young campers in his care, who all wear red shirts, now look up to him when they greet him with hugs and high-fives. “It shows me I’m doing a good job and I’ve had a positive impact on them,” he says. Bazile is one of many young adults who have so much life experience as campers they make the transition to camp counselor. Often times their very first job, these campers-turned-counselors develop vital workforce skills they can apply not only to everyday life, but later in the professional job market.
Being Prepared “It’s probably, in my opinion, one of the best preparations you could ever have for a just about any career,” says Kim Aycock, co-chair of Project Real Job, an outreach initiative of the American Camp Association. Project Real Job strives to show employers and colleges the value of working at a camp as well as teach camp staff how to translate their skills to a job resume.
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| march 2020
“Today we are in what’s called the fourth industrial revolution,” Aycock says. “Things are, as we know, very automated. People are losing jobs because of automation, because of technology. The one resource that is going to be so vital to being able to survive in
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Kate Stevens is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to our sister publication, Nola Boomers.
“It provides them their first opportunity to fail in a safe environment.”
Tulane student William Cohen knows firsthand what’s expected from campers who turn counselors.
the future workforce is to have social-emotional learning skills.” Camp is the perfect landscape for young folk to acquire these skills, as well as learn how to collaborate, problem solve, and think critically — all important job requirements employers are desperately searching in today’s workforce, according to Aycock. Local directors leading the summer camp scene in New Orleans agree. “You learn so much at a summer camp that you’re not going to learn necessarily sitting in an office or at a retail job,” says Brigid MacArthurThompson, assistant camp director at the JCC - Uptown.
What Makes a Counselor? Melissa Conner, Kidcam Camps president and CEO, says older teens are encouraged to make the transition from camper to counselor at Kidcam camps. “They understand the Kidcam programs,” says Conner. “The way we celebrate summer, they’ve lived it, they loved it. They know a lot of the younger faces. Some places will question why we have younger counselors, but we think it’s really important for the younger youth, the teen/tween age, to step into a leadership role.” At Kidcam City Park, for instance, camp leaders hold an end-of-summer closing ceremony where campers moving into the role of counselor receive the special green staff shirt that Bazile so coveted, Conner says. “It’s almost like a passing of the torch, if you will,” says Conner. “Here’s our campers who are graduating and moving into the green shirt role.” There are a few skills and personality traits camp directors look for when eyeing a camper for a counselor job. Campers looking to make
the transition should be personable, want to make a difference in the lives of campers, be dependable, and know what’s expected. “It does give them that sense of independence, that first step into the real world and making an income,” Conner says. Aycock says a potential counselor must be able to make the switch from being the center of attention as a camper to becoming more selfless and caring for others as counselor. Serving as camp counselor is the best on-the-job training for decision making because young counselors are caring for other people’s children. Counselors must think, “How am I going to make the decision based on what’s the best care for this particular child?” Kamryn Tillery, 14, a ninth-grade student at Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies, attended summer camp at the JCC - Uptown since she was 3 years old. It was only natural that she would want to continue to spend her summers there as a counselor, she says. Tillery says she has learned to become more responsible. “Everyday I knew that I had to be on time for camp or I would be in trouble,” she says, whose mother, Katie Kiefer Tillery, works as the JCC’s wellness director. “I had to go to bed early, wake up on time, and fix my lunch. Being prepared for the camp day was a life lesson.” Tillery says she also learned how to be a good listener, how to speak with parents, and make quick decisions.
In hiring a former camper, MacArthurThompson says she is looking for that passion for camp, high energy, positivity, and a willingness to learn. Once a camper turns 14 and completes the eighth grade, he or she can become a counselor-intraining, says Neal Alsop, JCC - Uptown assistant camp director and sports director. “I think that a summer camp is one of the most ideal environments for your first job,” he says. “It provides them their first opportunity to fail in a safe environment.” A counselor-in-training can either receive volunteer hours or elect to receive a stipend at the end of their summer, Alsop says. The paid counselor position is reserved for those entering 11th grade or above. The hiring process is similar to the process for a professional job. At the JCC, the potential counselor fills out an application online and then completes a phone interview with camp leaders. If the in-person interview goes well, the camp offers a position. A week-long orientation prior to the beginning of camp follows. Also at the age of 14, a teenager can accept a counselor-in-training position in exchange for service hours at Kidcam camps. At 15, teenagers can accept a paid counselor position. New counselors go through independent, on-site training with directors and other camp leaders a few weeks prior to the start of camp and also take part in another training session for first aid and camp safety. Besides knowing all the camp activities and games, counselors who have been campers often come up with the best ideas because they can relate to the campers, Conner says. “There is that tie that binds that really keeps them passionate about being part of something that’s really great and has been a great part of their life growing up.”
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
William Cohen, 22, attends Tulane University where he is studying public health. He attended Camp Stewart in Texas from the time he was six to 16-years old each summer before becoming a counselor. There are many adult skills needed to lead a group of campers, he says. “You have to be organized, be able to take charge.”
A Passion for Camp
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PARENTING CORNER
SAY YOU’RE SORRY,
AND MEAN IT
ISN’T INSISTING ON AN APOLOGY THE RIGHT WAY TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT? Every parent has faced that uncomfortable moment when their child has clearly crossed the line by transgressing against another child. A toy has been snatched, a turn stolen, or maybe things have escalated to shoving or grabbing. Adults may find that our first impulse is to order an apology, which is followed by our child’s transparently insincere apology (or a stubborn refusal to speak). Clearly, there isn’t much remorse or regret.
www.nolafamily.com
| march 2020
Part of being a parent in the early years is teaching both everyday manners and the larger moral lessons about how we treat other people. A child isn’t born knowing that when you accidentally step on someone’s foot, or knock someone down during a game of tag, “Oh, I’m sorry, are you OK?” is the appropriate response. We role-model these encounters for children when they are preverbal, and gradually give children the words and language to use as they develop.
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The second part, though, about teaching empathy and character, goes much deeper. Even very young children can empathize with the distress of others; in a room full of toddlers, if one starts to cry the others may respond with attempts to comfort him by bringing him toys, touching him, or even just looking distressed themselves. In research studies, most infants who are shown “helpful” puppets that assist another puppet with a task, alongside an unhelpful puppet, show a preference for the more altruistic puppet. In the heat of the moment, though, young children have a much harder time accessing empathy when their own wishes are being thwarted. The immaturity of the brain’s impulse control center means that a little person is easily swamped by intense feelings, so when your preschooler is frustrated, angry, or stressed, they have a hard time “using their words.” A strong sense of shame that often follows a young child after a conflict may make a spontaneous apology even more unlikely.
In such situations, a caregiver can tend to the wronged party first and then calmly, but firmly, discuss what happened: “It looks like you wanted a turn on the swing, but Dylan was waiting first. He didn’t like it when you grabbed it from him. I’ll help you wait, but you can’t push.” If Dylan looks upset, a parent could ask their child, “What can you do to make it right?” Encouraging a child to make amends (an apology is one way to do that) often works best when the child has calmed down and when the caregiver has their own emotions under control. If parents communicate that they have standards for how one treats people, and they help a child meet those standards in a loving but firm way, social skills begin to develop. Still not convinced? Researchers at the University of Michigan recently studied if children could distinguish between sincere and forced apologies, and how that affected their perception of the feelings of both children involved. Children as young as 7 years old could usually discern whether an apology was forced. But even 4-year-olds could tell that the person on the receiving end of a forced apology felt worse than the person hearing a prompted apology. Children in the study also perceived that the child who was forced to apologize felt self-pity, rather than remorse. The conclusion was that a willing apology (even one nudged by a caregiver) is more satisfying and a better learning experience for everyone involved.
Lisa Phillips, a licensed social worker and parent educator at The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital, is a contributor to the award-winning “Parenting Corner” column. She can be reached at 504.896.9591; chnola.org/parentingcenter.
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or you could call us at nola family and reach everyone that matters! (not that we're knockin' fairies)
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TEENS & JUUL:
WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW Vaping-related health issues are on the rise and teens may have been deceptively targeted. As Louisiana recently reported it’s third vaping death, 34 deaths reported nationally, and federal health officials calling it a youth epidemic, it’s clearly time to talk to your teen about vaping. The numbers are alarming. From 2017 to 2019, e-cigarette use among high school students rose by 135 percent. In 2019, more than 5.3 million middle and high school students used e-cigarettes, an increase of nearly 3.2 million students in two years. In Louisiana, the number of students reporting vaping has doubled since 2017. In 2019, nearly 32 percent of high school students and 15 percent of middle school students reported vaping several times, and 1 in 4 middle school students and half of high school students have tried vaping at least once. The brand of choice, and the most recognized, among high school students is Juul. Juul is currently under fire and facing several legal claims for alleged deceptive marketing practices. In particular, the candy and fruit flavored pods had become very popular among teens as well as Juul’s use of social media. It had also marketed its products as a safe alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. Juul has denied this, yet over half of high school students said it was their brand of choice.
HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: Juul e-cigarettes are sleek, high tech and easy to hide. They look like USB flash drives and can be charged in the USB port of a computer. They don’t look anything like a traditional tobacco product. A juul pod is small enough to fit inside a closed hand.
Since 2003, Mark Glago and the Glago Williams Law Firm have been advocating and fighting to protect the legal rights of Louisiana neighbors, communities, and families. The legal team at Glago Williams is passionate about providing quality and personalized representation to individuals, families, and businesses in the Gulf South area. For more information, visit glagowilliams.com
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| march 2020
Juul comes in flavors that appeal to youth, including mango, fruit, creme, mint, menthol, and cucumber. Research shows that flavors play a key role in youth use of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
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Juul appears to deliver nicotine more effectively and at higher doses than other e-cigarettes, increasing users’ risk of addiction. The manufacturer has claimed that each Juul cartridge of nicotine liquid contains as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. However, prior to November of 2018, there was no warning on the Juul product that it even contained nicotine. Research has found that many young Juul users didn’t know the product always contained nicotine, and many teens call use of the product “juuling,” indicating they may not realize it is an e-cigarette or tobacco product. Your child may face a lifelong struggle with health and addiction issues. If you find that your teen has tried or may be addicted to Juul e-cigarettes or has suffered a lung injury as a result, help is available. This article was sponsored by Glago Williams Law Firm.
New Orleans-based Glago Williams Law Firm is now accepting Juul claims and offering help with addiction and health issues. Consultations are Free.
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
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MOM ABOUT TOWN
5Misti Medders THINGS
I’M LOVING RIGHT NOW
Apart from becoming proud New Orleanians in 2018, Misti and her husband, Aron, own the Uptown-based Bayou Throws. Before moving to the city, Misti obtained a certificate in paralegal studies and spent 15 years in the profession. Her stepson, Blake, 20, lives in Illinois and her son, Bryant, 18, attends the ACCE Academy in New Orleans. Misti is also a member of the American Pencil Collectors Society, a Star Wars fanatic, and an avid autism awareness advocate.
WORK
CARNIVAL
My husband and I love going to Mardi Gras parades and we love riding in them. We started Bayou Throws because we wanted to provide throws that are a little different. Our goal is to produce throws that will be treasured after the parade. Our throws are recyclable and reusable.
Aron and I joined the Krewe of King Arthur in 2015. I am royalty this year — reigning as Morgana, alongside my husband as Merlin. The Krewe of King Arthur is New Orleans’ largest parading krewe on the first weekend of carnival. We celebrated our 20th anniversary this year.
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Nothing beats the sights and sounds of New Orleans from your front porch — the streetcar, the river, the glow of the Falstaff sign in the distance, and speaking to countless passersby. The drinks are endless at my home, because Martin’s Wine Cellar is my neighbor. Martin’s Wine Cellar, martinwine.com
FOOD
My husband and I love to cook. We are currently developing our own recipes for gumbo, jambalaya, etouffee, and red beans and rice. We regularly make groceries at Breaux Mart, and prefer to get our fresh seafood at Big Fisherman Seafood Market. Big Fisherman Seafood Market, 3301 Magazine St.
Krewe of King Arthur, kreweofkingarthur.com
ADVOCACY
www.nolafamily.com
| march 2020
RELAX
Bayou Throws, bayouthrows.com
I am the mother of a son with nonverbal autism, so I am literally my son’s voice. Along with advocating for my son to ensure he is treated with kindness and equality, I also strive to provide insight to others about what autism is and means to everyone affected by it. Autism Society of Greater New Orleans, asgno.org
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
BIRTHDAY CLUB
Coming Soon...
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OH,
THE
PLACES YOU’LL
PLAY
NOLA’S BEST PLAYGROUNDS We surveyed parents for what makes their go-to playgrounds the best. What do parents in the Greater New Orleans area want when looking for the best playgrounds? Is it how clean the bathrooms are or if there’s swings and slides? What about location and safety? Local parents say it’s less about the kinds of equipment or activities available and more about how comfortable the whole family feels when spending an evening after school or a weekend morning at their favorite hangouts.
| march 2020
Of the total parents we surveyed, how safe the playground felt — factoring in fenced-in areas, gated access, and neighborhood — was the No. 1 choice, far outpacing proximity to school or even their own neighborhoods. Cleanliness of the grounds and bathrooms came in second, but actually providing bathrooms nearby came in fourth after the elusive shaded areas.
www.nolafamily.com
Local parents want safety above all else, evenover a convenient location.
Tying with bathrooms at fourth were the types of equipment or activities offered. Swings and slides or feeding the ducks and walking a trail were lower on the list, just above seating areas/picnic tables for adults. The least-required factor when looking for a playground was whether or not accessibility options are provided for children with disabilities.
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Which playgrounds live up to these standards? New Orleans is arguably full of contradictions, and it’s playgrounds are no different. Alma Peters Playspot, the most mentioned playground in our survey doesn’t have bathrooms or even a moderate variety of equipment. But it does have community. It’s right in the middle of a huddled Uptown neighborhood, surrounded by a chain link fence, and dotted with used tricycles and plastic play forts. A compact play structure and a row of swings are the only permanent equipment in the park. “That was my favorite,” one parent said. “It didn’t matter how old the equipment was. That fence was everything because I didn’t have to helicopter at all. Plus, that big concrete slab in the middle with all of the second-hand bikes and wheely things was fab.” Two City Park playgrounds, Stanly Ray and Sir Cumference, came in a close second. Two Northshore playgrounds, Koop Drive/Kids Konnection and Bogue Falaya Wayside Park took the next two spots over New Orleans’ Danneel Playground, Washington Square Park, and Wisner Playground. “It now has new equipment,” said a parent of Washington Square Park, which is part of the Faubourg Marigny Historic District. “But not the dogs — allowed to poop all over the place.”
Percentages represent the number of times an amenity or playground was chosen compared to the total number of survey respondents.
Safety 37.5% Cleanliness 27.5% Shade 20% Variety of Equipment 17.5% Bathrooms 17.5% Seating/Picnic Tables 10% Convenient Location 7.5% Accessibility 2.5%
Alma Peters 27.5%
Sir Cumference Playground, City Park 20% Koop Drive/Kids Konnection 17.5% Bogue Falaya Wayside Park 7.5% Danneel Playground 5% Washington Square Park 5% Wisner Park 5%
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Stanley Ray Playground, City Park 20%
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LEARNING YEARS
Parents have a vital role in making reading and other literacy-building experiences a part of the child’s life. Television, tablets, phones, excessive homework, and demanding sports are distractions that inhibit reading. More importantly, the benefits of sharing books with your child, which transcend literacy, are diminished. Due to distractions, children are spending less time enjoying books just for fun; sadly, reading becomes a chore.
www.nolafamily.com
| march 2020
Shared reading between parents and children opens the door to many things, including emotional understanding, discussion, flexibility of thought, and learning how to think. Formal educational reading may be flat for young students until the stories are shared with someone who brings it all alive.
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While it is important to introduce children to books in infancy, it is not the books themselves that develop a love of the written word. The learning that happens when stories are shared has a deep emotional and intellectual impact. People who share books together learn about each other’s ideas, interests, views, and personalities.
Pat Blackwell, Ph.D., is a licensed developmental psychologist who has worked with families for over 30 years, and is the author of Nola Family’s award-winning “Learning Years” column.
h
er
Re
d a
o T g g e n t i
Introducing Books to Babies
Babies respond to sensory input. Books that have touch or sound features are fun, as are chewable board books. Since we are discussing the intersection of emotional relationships and reading, make the experience a sensual one. Touch and stroke, coo, rock, blow a raspberry or two on baby’s tummy.
Toddler Time
Toddlers love to move. Go with it. Bring movement into the story; animate it with silly voices or animal sounds. Turn the story into a Broadway musical and sing the lines. Your child may be more interested in telling the story to you rather than listening to you read. It is amazing how young children can memorize a book. Try skipping a page or leaving out a phrase in a favorite book and junior is bound to notice. The books that he or she is most interested in may be the one you begin to use as a foundation for discussion.
Young Children
For children of all ages it is best to set aside a regular reading time together. While bedtime may be the best time to cuddle up and share a story, weekend visits to the library or bookstore may also work. This may be a good time to develop an interest in a series such as Harry Potter. Try to encourage discussion of the books outside of the reading time. Bring books alive by going to museums to explore real suits of armor, Renaissance fashion, or World War II. Remember, this is how books help people forge a deeper relationship.
Adolescents
Inquire about what your child is reading at school and read it too. Don’t quiz the child about the book, instead bring it alive and make it matter for him or her. Children are capable of surprising insights. Let them dazzle you with their take on the story. Teenagers are developing their own identity and view of the world. Books can help in this process. Try not to judge or criticize if your teen has some “out there” interpretations. Listen and learn; it’s development in process. At all ages, it is important to set up a home environment that is conducive to reading. Limits on technology and screen time are essential. Make sure there is a healthy balance of extracurricular activities, homework, and down time. Model reading (newspaper, books, and magazines). It is also important to have sacred family time without distraction to allow all of the benefits of the written word to settle in and take root.
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
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HIP
GRANNIE
Teen Lounge WELCOME TO THE
FROM LITTLE PEOPLE TO TEENS, CHILDREN HAVE A KNACK FOR GROWING UP TOO FAST.
Years ago, my Aunt Kathy transformed a rarely used small room in her Winnetka, Illinois, home into what was called, “The Little People’s Room.” Here her two children could play with their toys, write on the walls, spill paint on the floor — anything was allowed as long as it didn’t cause bodily harm. When our two children were toddlers, I followed Aunt Kathy’s example and created a Little People’s Room for our two kids. They spent hours making play dough, painting, and watching a vast collection of turtles, fish, and frogs survive in Mason jars and tanks.
www.nolafamily.com
| march 2020
Naturally, when Rylan and Amelia were born I wanted a Little People’s Room in our new home, so Papa and I christened the large kids’ bedroom upstairs the newest Little’s People’s Room. We furnished the room with two sets of bunk beds, four walls filled with Dr. Bob’s art, a comfy chair, and lots of books and toys. It was the perfect room for little children to hang out. Until now.
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In November, Rylan became a teenager and Amelia became an official tween. Suddenly, the Little People’s Room looked out of place. So they decided it was time to make the room more teen friendly, or as Amelia dubbed, “a teen lounge.” Out went the collection of Tonka trucks. The 40-year-old rocking horse was put out to pasture. The toy stroller and a Nyx 2015 handbag was rolled on out. A large collection of children’s books was divided up, although I confess I saved a few of my favorites. After all, “Goodnight Moon” and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” are forever Claverie classics. We didn’t waste time on the new house-decluttering custom of holding an object and thanking it for its service before we made a decision. Rylan and Amelia are too minimalistic for that. They were ready to face the next phase of their lives — adolescence — and acted
decisively. However, I must admit: I felt it was the end of an era. Was I ready to let go of their childhood? Without hesitation, I picked up a yellow legal pad and pen and asked, “What does this room need to become more teen friendly?” Rylan asked that the mini foosball set be placed on a table in the center of the room. Amelia asked for some reading lamps, a small end table next to the mini sofa and a coffee table she could put her feet on. They both wanted the bunk beds to remain and thought the Dr. Bob art was cool. For good measure, I bought a groovy lava lamp (complete with Bluetooth) and a disco ball that splashed colorful bright lights onto the ceiling. As a borderline packrat, I had some pangs of angst as we bid farewell to these childish things. It’s not the letting go, it’s realizing that Rylan and Amelia are growing up faster than I could have ever imagined. I did fine until we left the room and Rylan looked at me triumphantly and said, “Wow! Can you believe in two years I’ll be driving?” That’s when I lost it. I wanted to put my arms around him, hand him a box of crayons and tell him to scribble away, be a kid, let me read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” once again. But I can’t hold back time. The Little People’s Room days are gone.
Long live the Teen Lounge Laura Claverie, also known as Nola Family’s Hip Grannie, is a journalist who has written for local, regional, and national media.
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
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www.nolafamily.com
| march 2020
Parenthood is like being a sea captain — the safety and health of your subordinates is your responsibility, even when the ship seems like it’s sinking — but if you want to avoid a mutiny, here’s some new products to help keep your family shipshape.
GEAR TO GET
NATURALLY-FLAVORED CLEANING SPRAY Think about all the items that go into the mouth for whatever reason, but aren’t always conveniently near a sink — retainers, mouthguards and mouthpieces, baby bottles, pacifiers. The Clean Kit comes with a pen-cap travel bottle, 5-ounce refill bottle, and the microfiber wipe keychain. $14.99/kit, tastyclean.com
TUMMY DROPS Invented by a gastroenterologist to help his own patients, Tummy Drops is an all-natural, medication-free way to relieve tummy troubles. They’re made with just four simple plant-based ingredients, including ginger and peppermint. $10.99/33ct, tummydrops.com
“BOOBIES ARE FOR BABIES" The “Boobies Are For Babies” picture book is a symbol of grappling with the changes all new moms go through as they explore their own bodies, time, and identity — with a focus on breastfeeding. $22.99, boobiesareforbabies.com
BIODEGRADABLE DIAPERS
The How To Be A Great Sibling Kit inspires role-play, health awareness through education, creativity, and problem-solving. Students conclude their activities with a Great Sibling Oath and certificate. $29.99, ages 4+, littlemedicalschool.com
$68 month-to-month subscription, dyper.com
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
HOW TO BE A GREAT SIBLING KIT
Dyper is the first subscription-based delivery service that provides chemical- and ink-free diapers that are compostable. The subscription includes an SOS feature that quickly delivers a week’s worth of extra diapers.
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In The Know
We have complete listings on our dedicated ‘classes’ calendar just go to nolafamily.com and click on ‘Calendars.’
Child Safety Seat Inspection Station Louisiana State Police – Troop B 2101 I-10 Service Rd., Kenner. Wednesdays, 1–4 pm. Walk-in or call 504.471.2780 for an appointment. Free. Louisiana State Police – Troop L 2600 N. Causeway, Mandeville. Tuesdays, 3–6 pm. Walk-in or call 504.893.6250 for an appointment. Free.
Ochsner Medical Center – Baptist Registration is required for all classes. Visit ochsner.org/baptistclasses.
Happiest Baby on the Block Learn techniques to calm and soothe a crying baby. March 4, 6–7:30 pm. $25.
Touro Family Birthing Center For more information or to register, call 504.897.7319 or visit touro.com/events.
Grandparenting Class Learn about skin-to-skin, rooming-in, the latest on the labor curve, breastfeeding, and safe sleeping. March 5, 6:30–8:30 pm. Free.
Happiest Baby on the Block Learn calming techniques presented by The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital. March 14, 10 am–noon. Free.
Ochsner Medical Center – Kenner
Baby Food Making Class Touro Nutritionist Julie Fortenberry presents an interactive baby food making class. March 9, 6–7 pm. Free.
KIDS & TWEENS Ochsner Medical Center – Baptist See listing above for registration information.
Sibling Class This class is split into two classes (ages 3–5; 6–10). Includes activities preparing siblings for a new baby. Ages 3–5: March 2. Ages 6–10: March 16. 5:30–6:30 pm. Free.
Touro Family Birthing Center See listing above for registration information.
Sibling Class For children 4–11, children learn what to expect when a new baby enters the family. March 21, 9–10:30 am. Free.
Baby Care Class Receive information on basic baby care, normal behavior, comforting baby, and more. March 17, 6–8 pm. Free.
Tulane Lakeside Hospital
Ochsner Medical Center – Westbank
Birth & Beyond Stages of pregnancy, labor, and types of anesthesia are reviewed. March 12, 7–9 pm.
West Jefferson Medical Center
Safe & Sound Basic newborn care, safety, and health are reviewed. Free car seat safety check before class (5:30–7 pm). March 26, 7–9 pm.
See listing above for registration information.
Baby Basics Includes newborn appearance and characteristics, basic infant care, and more. March 2, 6–8 pm. Free. | march 2020
Focus on Children Parents can lessen the impact of separation and divorce. Uptown. March 11, 6–8 pm. $25.
Understanding Your Newborn Class Designed for first-time expecting parents. March 23, 6–8 pm. Free.
Please call the OB Navigator to register for classes at 504.391.5529.
www.nolafamily.com
Active Parenting Now (6–10 Years) Raise responsible, cooperative children who are able to resist peer pressure. Held at Rosa Keller Library. Registration required. Four sessions: Tuesdays, Mar. 3–24, 5:30–7:30 pm.
Prenatal Refresher Class Review the labor and delivery process as well as care for the newborn. March 19, 6:30–8:30 pm. Free.
Registration is required for all classes. Call 504.464.8365.
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Positive Discipline (3–5 Years) Encouraging cooperation and redirecting the behavior of preschoolers. Three sessions: Tuesdays, Mar. 3–17, 6:30–8 pm. $35/members, $45/nonmembers.
Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital To register, call 504.896.9591 or visit theparentingcenter.net.
Snuggle & Struggles This new parent group is open to parents and newborns–6 months. Tuesdays, 10:30 am–noon. Free. Breast & Bottle: Infant Feeding Clinic An informal support group led by a certified lactation counselor. Fridays. Consultations 9 am–noon, peer support group 10 am–noon. Free.
For more information or to register, call 504.780.4641.
West Jefferson Medical Center Most classes are free, unless otherwise noted. Registration is required. Call 504.349.6200.
Grandparent Gathering Breakfast discussion on what’s new. March 21, 9–11 am. $25/couple. Caring for Your Newborn Registered nurse discusses newborn behavior and care. March 21, 1–4:30 pm. Free.
Sibling T.L.C. Prepares children 3+ for the arrival of a new baby. March 7, 2:30–4 pm.
Egg hunts galore — Easter is April 12 this year.
Out & About MARCH
3 TUE
National Read Across Amer ica Day
Help motivate kids to read, bring the joy of reading to students of all ages, and make all children feel valued and welcome. Visit your local library to find the perfect book today!
Pelicans vs. Minnesota Timberwolves 1 SUN
Columbia Street, Downtown Covington. This year’s theme, Beyond All Boundaries, takes a giant leap for dog-kind and celebrates the limitless exploration of sea, air, and space. For more information, visit mardipaws.com. 2 pm.
5 THU
Dancing w ith the Stars Saenger Theatre. This year, the multi-Emmy award winning Dancing with the Stars is heading out of the studio and into your local dance hall. The show begins at 8 pm so be there to take part in the hit television show as a member of the audience!
''Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr ."
Continues through March 8 Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Tom, a young school teacher, is nervous about his first day of teaching. He tries to relax by watching TV, when various characters representing facets of his personality emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and music. Times vary by showing.
''Peter and the Starcatcher" Continues each weekend through March 22 Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner. Adults and children alike will be enchanted by this wildly theatrical, hilarious, and innovative retelling of how a miserable orphan came to be The Boy Who Would Not Grow Up. Tickets start at $37/person. Time varies by showing.
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Mardi Paws
Smoothie King Center. Cheer on the Pels as they take on the Timberwolves at home. Ticket prices vary. Tipoff at 7 p.m.
6 FRI
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Kids in the Kitchen: Crawfish Etouffee and Hot Garlic Bread Southern Food & Beverage Museum. For children ages 7–11. SoFAB is celebrating the last week of their Junior League of Lafayette’s exhibit. $20/member, $30/ nonmember. 10–11:30 am.
Studio Kids! At NOMA
Johnette Downing in Concert New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Johnette will perform a concert and sing-along especially suited for kids from preschool to 3rd grade. The roots music features songs about Louisiana culture. 11–11:45 am.
''Onward" Opens Participating Theaters. Set in a suburban fantasy world, Disney and Pixar’s “Onward” introduces two teenage elf brothers (voices of Chris Pratt and Tom Holland) who embark on an extraordinary quest to discover if there is still a little magic left out there. Showtimes vary.
7 SAT
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| march 2020
NORD's Youth Camp Expo
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Various Locations. Get prepared for another fun summer with NORD. The expo is your first opportunity to enroll your child in a NORD/City of New Orleans Youth Summer Camp. Programs focus on sports, STEM, dance, art, academic enrichment, health and fitness, character and leadership, social skills building, outdoors, and more. For more information, visit nordc.org/activities/summer-camp. 9–11 am.
Project Prom 2020 Junior League of Greater Covington, 529 N. Columbia St. Local high school students are invited to take home a formal gown, shoes, and accessories free of charge. No registration required. For more information, contact jlgcprojectprom@ gmail.com. 9 am–noon.
City Park. Imprints in the Interior — look closely at decorative objects in the museum, ranging from ornate ceramic vases to metal plates and cups fit for the fanciest of tea parties. Practice making your own designs and create unique imprints in clay. $25/members, $30/ nonmembers. 10 am–noon.
12th Annual Gift of Sight Celebration Louisiana Children’s Museum. The Southern Eye Bank hosts this annual celebration. For more information, visit southerneyebank.org/2020-gift-of-sightcelebration. $25/person. Children under 12 months are free. 11 am–2 pm.
Freret Market Freret St. and Napoleon Ave. The market is split up along three category lines: food, art, and flea. Besides all of the great shopping every week, the market also hosts local restaurants serving up their unique cuisine, live music, and a kids area. 11 am–4 pm.
Soul Fest (Continues March 8) Audubon Zoo. Music, food, and fun are served in great supply during this annual festival celebrating African American culture. Admission is included with zoo admission. 11 am–4 pm.
AHAVA Music & Art Festival: Love Celebration (Continues March 8) Woldenberg Riverfront Park. This free event raises funds for charities that make a powerful impact in the community. For more information on the band line-up, artists, festival tents, and charities, visit ahavafest.com. 11 am–7 pm.
The Music of John Williams Continues March 8 The Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way. John Williams has scored soundtracks to some of the era’s most well-known films. Experience his unforgettable music performed live by the LPO. Tickets start at $39. 7:30 pm.
8 SUN
Adloyadah Pu r im Carnival New Orleans JCC - Uptown. Bring the entire family for a fun-filled afternoon of food, music, games, and activities for all ages. Children’s all-day play pass is $12, or $10 with a donation of nonperishable items for the Broadmoor Food Pantry. 11:30 am–3:30 pm.
Harlem Globetrotters UNO Lakefront Arena. The Harlem Globetrotters are pushing the limits of basketball and having even more fun in an all-new tour. There will be new high-flying dunks, hilarious stunts, a new recordbreaking attempt, and unforgettable family moments. $20/person. 2 pm.
11 WED
YLC Wednesday at the Square Continues each Wednesday through May 13 Lafayette Square, 500 St. Charles Ave. Presented by AOS Interior Environments, enjoy this free 10-concert spring music series with food and beverage sales supporting Young Leadership Council’s mission to build young professional leadership through community service. 5–8 pm.
14 SAT
''Pete the Cat: The Great Lep rechaun Chase" Barnes & Noble, 3414 Hwy 190, Mandeville. It’s St. Patrick’s Day, and it’s also the grand opening of Pete the Cat’s leprechaun catching business. Pete gears up to trap a leprechaun for his friends! But catching a leprechaun is never easy — especially if it’s Clover, who’s full of tricks. 11 am–noon.
India Fest
Sock Hop
NOMA, City Park. This vibrant festival of Indian arts, culture, and cuisine features a wide variety of performances, activities, and programs, including a traditional lamplighting ceremony, classical and Bollywood dance, sari demonstrations, henna applications, yoga, lectures, film, and more. $10/general admission, $5/members, and free for visitors age 19 and under. 10 am–4 pm.
New Orleans JCC - Uptown. Boys and girls (grades 5th–7th) will enjoy hanging with friends and listening to music with a live DJ. Enter the dance contest to compete for prizes, or grab something to eat from the snack bar. Advanced tickets are $10/ members, $14/nonmembers. At the door price: $10/members, $15/nonmembers. 7–10 pm.
Ir ish Channel St. Patr ick's Day Parade Enjoy this truly essential New Orleans St. Patrick’s Day cultural tradition and catch throws which include flowers, beads, kisses, cabbage, and much more! With over 30 large floats, and thousands of parade participants, you’re sure to have some good fun. 1 pm.
Kid's Night Out New Orleans JCC - Uptown. Kids, spend Saturday night at the JCC while your parents have a night on the town. Have fun playing games, making crafts, eating pizza, and watching a movie. To register, call 504.897.0143 or email brigid@nojcc.org. $30/ members, $35/nonmembers. 6:45–9:45 pm.
15 SUN
18 WED
Little Acorns
Old Metair ie St. Patr ick's Day Parade
New Orleans Botanical Garden, City Park. Kids ages 18 months–4 years will enjoy storytime, a hands-on activity, and a healthy snack. $3/child. 10–11 am.
Metairie Rd. Families and friends gather on sidewalks where the celebration begins at 12 pm with a starting point at 1901 Severn Ave., the parade runs up to Canal Blvd. at the beginning of Midcity.
New Orleans Wine & Food Exper ience
17 TUE
Happ y St. Patr ick's Day
Continues through March 22 Each year, hundreds of wineries and restaurants participate and feature local flavor and innovative new creations inspired by diverse cuisines. Top chefs from around the city create culinary experiences like no other. Over two dozen restaurants feature special dining evenings throughout the New Orleans festival. For more information, visit nowfe.com. Ticket packages vary.
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
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Fete Francaise Ecole Bilingue, corner of General Pershing and Magazine. New Orleans’ premier French festival. Featuring french cuisine, drinks, music, games, marketplace, and auction. 11 am–5 pm.
19 THU
Sp r ing Begins New Orleans Book Festival (Continues through March 21) Tulane University. The New Orleans Book Festival will bring the world’s leading authors to Tulane University for a multiday celebration of their works. For more information, visit bookfest.tulane.edu.
20 FRI
Kids in the Kitchen: Spaghetti and Meatballs
Smoothie King Center. WWE returns to New Orleans! Witness Friday Night Smackdown Broadcast Live. Tickets start at $15/person. 6:45 pm.
Mardi Gras Indians Super Sunday
Studio Kids! At NOMA
| march 2020
22 SUN
WWE Fr iday Night Smackdown Live
World Down Syndrome Day
www.nolafamily.com
National World War II Museum. Learn about the science of spring! In this free workshop for all kids aged 5–14 and their caregivers, learn about air pressure, the Victory Gardens, and how the science and technological advancements of World War II still affect us today. 1–2:30 pm.
Southern Food & Beverage Museum. For children ages 7–11. Kids will use old pasta rollers to make fresh spaghetti, rolling up their sleeves and meatballs to add to a pasta dish. $20/member, $30/nonmember. 10–11:30 am.
21 SAT -
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Family Innovation Studio: Sp r ing Science
City Park. Sculptural Minis — venture into 3D design by constructing a miniature chair of your own. With structural cardboard and collaged fabric elements, you too can create a functional, fantastic piece of furniture inspired by NOMA’s collection. $25/members, $30/ nonmembers. 10 am–noon.
Free Family Day at Ogden Museum Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Enjoy a day of art activities and entertainment inspired by the exhibition, “What Music is Within: Black Abstraction from the Permanent Collection.” Fun for the whole family! 10 am–2 pm.
Citywide. Traditional route begins at A.L. Davis Park at Washington Ave. and Lasalle St. Another celebration takes place at Bayou St. John in Mid-City. Related festivities occur at the Backstreet Cultural Museum in Treme.
Lou isiana Ir ish -Italian Parade Metairie hosts this culturally celebratory event with a route beginning at Clearview Mall, 4436 Veterans Memorial Blvd. The parade concludes at Veterans and Martin Behrman, and impresses with marching bands and floats. Noon.
24 TUE
Pelicans vs. Memphis Gr izzlies Smoothie King Center. Cheer on the Pels as they take on the Grizzlies at home. Ticket prices vary. Tipoff at 7 pm.
26 THU
45th Annual Lou isiana Crawfish Festival Continues through March 29 8245 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette. Featuring boiled crawfish with all the fixins’ and crawfish dishes, such as crawfish bread, crawfish pasta, crawfish pies, crawfish rice, and crawfish jambalaya adorn the limelight while many other food booths tickle just about everyone’s pallet. Times vary by day.
27 FRI
Hogs for the Cause Continues March 28 UNO Lakefront Arena. Kick off festival season right with music, barbecue, and community! Hogs for the Cause returns with 85 local and regional BBQ masters and the best backyard chefs to compete in seven categories. Proceeds to support families with pediatric brain cancer. Tickets start at $30.
''Mulan" Opens Participating Theaters. Acclaimed filmmaker Niki Caro brings the epic tale of China’s legendary warrior to life in Disney’s “Mulan.” A fearless young woman risks everything out of love for her family and her country to become one of the greatest warriors China has ever known. Check this reimagining of the Disney Classic this weekend.
28 SAT
Big Bass Fishing Rodeo and Fishtival City Park. New Orleans City Park will host the 73rd annual Big Bass Rodeo, the oldest freshwater rodeo in the country. Visit the free Fishtival with exhibitors, vendors, raffles, fishing tackle for sale, and more! $10/adult, $5/child ages 12 and under. Tournament hours 6:30am–noon, festival hours 9 am–noon.
5th Annual Camellia City Kids Fun Fest
Egg-citing Annual Easter Egg Hunt Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd. Bring your basket and hippity hop through the beautiful gardens to find what treasures the Easter Bunny has hidden for you. Each session will have age-specific egg hunting areas, photos with the Easter Bunny, and more. $15/member, $18/ nonmember. Free for children 2 and under. Morning hunt, 9:30–10:30am. Afternoon hunt, 1:30–2:30pm.
EatFit Jr . Chef Cooking Challenge Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. EatFit is hosting its Junior Chef Cooking Challenge in collaboration with the New Orleans Home & Garden Show. For more information, call 504.842.5919 or email Erin Arceneaux at earceneaux@ochsner.org. 10 am–2 pm.
Heritage park, 1701 Bayou Ln., Slidell. This fun event features pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, rock wall, giant maze, firefighter challenge, arts and crafts, and more. Proceeds benefit Riley’s Bikes, a St. Tammany Parish nonprofit organization that provides adaptive bikes for kids with special needs. $5/person. 10 am–6 pm.
Dance for Social Change Festival Continues March 29 at 2 pm Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St. Presented by Dancing Ground’s DG Uprising teen company. They will present a performance based on a social justice topic. For more information, visit dancingrounds. org/dance-for-social-change. $30/person, $25/CAC member, $5 for ages 18 and under. Showtimes at 2 pm and 7:30 pm.
Houston Ballet by NOBA
Party for the Planet Audubon Nature Institute. Guests will enjoy hands-on discovery with local exhibitors and fun opportunities to experience nature, including a complimentary night sky demonstration in the planetarium. 11 am–3 pm.
Mahalia Jackson Theater. In celebration of their 50th anniversary, the Houston Ballet visits New Orleans for a spotlight performance. Ticket prices vary.
29 SUN
Woofstock Pet Festival
Children's World's Fair Louisiana Children’s Museum. The 22nd annual event will take children ages 2–12 on a daylong journey that explores the people, natural landscapes, customs, and achievement of eight different destinations. Early Explorer packages available. $16/member or $20/nonmember. Noon–4:30 pm.
Castine Center in Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Blvd., Mandeville. Part festival, part low-cost vet clinic and mega-adoption event, Woofstock 2020 will include fun fur the entire family. Patrons enjoy delicious food, beverages, a children’s area, raffles, and a vendor market for your four-legged companions. 8:30 am–3 pm.
Our newsletter designed for parents of children with special needs. stay connected and sign-up today at nolafamily.com
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Inclusive NOLA
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Ongoing Satu rdays: Downtown Crescent ReFresh Farmers Market Free Admission to the SPROUT NOLA, 300 N. Broad St., New Orleans. City Farmers Market Botanical Gardens Support local farming at this weekly farmers Central Business District, 750 Carondelet St., New Orleans. Check out local vendors, live music, and cooking demonstrations every Saturday morning. 18 am–noon. Repeats every Saturday.
market that benefits SPROUT NOLA. Free. Mondays, 4–7 pm.
Free Wednesdays at the Audubon Natu re Institute
Tuesdays: Uptown Crescent City Farmers Market
Audubon Zoo, Aquarium, Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, and Louisiana Nature Center. Through 2019, the Audubon Institute’s Community Connect program is offering free admissions for Orleans Parish residents and four guests on alternating Wednesdays.
Uptown Square, 200 Broadway St., New Orleans. Try some local produce and meats or buy the whole family a meal from a local vendor. Repeats every Thursday. 9 am–1 pm.
Free Admission to the Contemporary Arts Center
CTRL-Z Main Library. Have a teen or tween interested in computer programming or tech? CTRL-Z celebrates and encourages this curiosity. No experience necessary. Repeats on the second Wednesday of the month. 4:30–7:30 pm.
900 Camp St., New Orleans. Louisiana residents get free admission to the Contemporary Arts Center every Sunday courtesy of the Helis Foundation. The CAC is a multidisciplinary arts center that is dedicated to the presentation, production, and promotion of contemporary art. 11 am–5 pm.
WTUL's Kids Show
City Park, 5 Victory Ave. Louisiana residents receive free admission on Wednesdays courtesy of The Helis Foundation. Twelve acres of gardens and art awaits you. 10 am–4 pm. Wednesdays.
Art for All Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Admission to the museum is free for Louisiana residents courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am–5 pm. Thursdays.
Children's Yoga w ith Tr isha Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library. Children ages 2–6 years old are welcome to join this yoga class. Repeats every Tuesday. 11–11:30 am.
91.5 FM or stream online at wtulneworleans. com. This weekly radio show is hosted by DJ LizE and broadcasted live from Tulane’s campus features kid-friendly music, jokes, storytime, and more. 8–10 am. Saturdays.
Toddler & Preschool Storytime
Storytimes
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| march 2020
Nix Library. Read, talk, write, and play together in a format designed for children ages 2–5 years old and their caregivers. Siblings are welcome. March 4, 5:30–6:30 pm
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Little Acorns City Park Botanical Garden. Join the City Park storytime group under the Alferez Oak. Read a story, have a snack, and do a hands-on activity each week. Bring your own blanket! $3/child. Repeats on the third Wednesday of the month. 10–11 am.
Baby and Toddler Storytime Algiers Regional Library. An interactive story time geared towards children from birth to two years and their caregivers. Siblings welcome. Repeats every Tuesday. 10:30–11:30 am.
Chinese Stor ies
East Bank Regional Library. Elementary school aged and younger children learn Chinese and a story in a bilingual storytime with paper crafts. Free. Repeats on the second Saturday of the month. 2:45–3:30 pm.
Storytime and Snack Children’s Resource Center Library. Children of all ages and their caregivers are welcome to attend this story time. A light snack will be provided. Repeats every Tuesday. 10:30–11:15 am.
Crescent City Reading Buddies Book Club Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center and Kids Ground Coffee Shop. Middle school students pair with children ages 2–7 one-onone to build early literacy skills. Repeats every month on the first Tuesday at the library and every third Tuesday at the coffee shop. 4–5 pm.
Reading to Honeybun Alvar Library. Honeybun, a licensed therapy dog, provides a patient and receptive audience for reluctant readers and dog lovers to practice reading aloud. March 25. 4–5 pm. Note: Schedules subject to change
march 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
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