Last night was a fun night for my kids and me. I like a good family night out that's more than heading to the movies or somewhere far and away out of town. I found a good evenings entertainment right here in Hillsborough. We went to the CW Stanford's spring theater production "Duck Tails and Bobbysox, A 1950's Rock Musical" Set in Andy's diner in roughly the mid 1950's, this show had lots to offer everyone in my family. When I say there was plenty for my entire family, I mean my five year old sat through the entire production, tapped his foot and sang a bit. My Middle school age kids thought it was cool to see their friends up on stage or playing in the "Pit" band.
My critical point of view though is I was impressed to see so much young talent. I didn't see anyone over acting their parts and there was only once I recognized a "flub." I could see much effort had been put into making this production peachy keen. For starters, upon entering the doors of the lobby I was met with a Menu and Milk Shake machine. The "menu" is a well designed play bill which hosts everything from "Signature Specials," "Goody's" and "Every Day Favorites." To set the tone of the 50's musical there were milk shakes for sale, provided by Andy's Hamburgers.
Inside the cafeteria, the stage was set with some of the best scenery I have ever seen at a middle school production. Either A, I haven't been to a good middle school production or B. CWS has lots talent drawing, and painting those sets, just know that I was impressed by what I saw last evening. If a mid 50's soda shop isn't enough to set things off, the costumes were more than impressive. There were girls wearing poodle skirts and saddle shoes, boys with greasy hair and leather coats. No soda shop would be complete without a roller skating table hop, and this production had it.
Considering this show is a musical, it wouldn't be complete without live music. The singers on stage were all accompanied by "Mary May and The Ducktails and Bobbysox Orchestra." They kept the beat going all evening long, so much so, that by the end of the show people were dancing in the isle. My youngest couldn't keep his feet still for most of the show, and there were plenty of times I could have broken into song and dance with the pit playing behind me. I think such gesture would have been inappropriate and down right embarrassing to the two middle school age childern in my house, after all they are the ones who have to go to school there.
I realize this is only a middle school play but there was lots of young growing talent on the stage. Because I don't want to offend anyone, I am not going to mention any names, you'll just have to go look for yourself. Just know that some can dance, and some can sing, and others can fight and cheer really well.
This was a fun production to watch and it was well worth it, milk shakes and all for my kids and me. I highly recommend catching this show before it closes. Head for Andy's Soda Shop located in the CW Stanford Cafeteria Friday or Saturday 7PM-9PM. The price for a family is $8, milk shakes are $2 and can be purchased before the show starts or during intermission.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Parents! College is in your Future.
Today was a reflective day for me and probably most of the parents who were sitting in the library at CW Stanford Middle school. This morning parents were invited to a Counselors coffee Hour. This was the first one I have attended and since I have an 8th grader there I may as well go.
It turns out that not much has changed in the whole college world since I left college last semester. Looking around the room there were concerned looks on the faces of parents. The news that AP classes are the standard their kids must meet to be considered a viable applicant at college was scary. In addition there were the parents in the room who probably never stepped foot on a college campus....news to them the whole process is overwelming to anyone. Its even more to go through alone we you are only 18 years old.
The admissions couselor speaking to us today was a representive from UNC Chapel Hill. UNC CHapel Hill is perhaps one of the most sought after public colleges in the state. I realize being a Pirate I had to sit through her droning on about the tar heel blue but honestly she spoke about her personal expereince and I was right there with her. The experience navigating college admissions pretty much alone. Her experience was her choices in finding a college were limited. Her mother could only afford to visit near by colleges and she was only allowed to apply to one. I nearly cried hearing her story because it sounded so similar to my own. I was only allowed to visit near by schools, my step father was sick in the fall of my senior year and my college acceptance was the last thing on anyone mind but my own. My mother did manage to take to me a college fair and I was very excited. Then reality came, each of those applications I wanted to send off cost $30-$100 for submission. That vastly changed things for me. Several colleges I wanted to attend but at the time my parents simply didn't have the money. I widdled my list to a two colleges with $30 application fees, and held my breath. IF I were lucky I would get in. I actually did get into those two colleges, but my choices of colleges were limited simply because my parents at that point in time didn't have the money to allow me to apply to more than those two colleges. Today though I learned of a wonderful thing called Fee Waiver services from the College Board. The Fee Waiver service allows students to have their fees waived for the SAT, additionally students qualifying for this program can have application fees waived to up to Four colleges and major universities. For more information about this service for your family please visit http://sat.collegeboard.com/register/sat-fee-waivers
The other thing about colleges and universities are visiting. I know for many parents who've attended college in a previous life they want their little ones to attend their Alma mater. That's perfectly fine but believe it or not there's thousands of families with parents that never stepped foot on the campus of a four year university. Or your little darling has no desire to be go to the school you have a life long loyalty too. Its a far cry from the comfort of home and much different than commuting to community college. Visiting the campus of your child's choice is a big step. They might want to go to college with their friends and find that campus life at that college is suiting for them. As a parent you might learn that the college might be surrounded by a not so great neighbor hood, that off campus living isn't feasible. There's tons to consider when looking at living at a four year college. Visiting can help give you that feel. I was able to visit one college only after I had been accepted. One college I applied to I am sure to this day I didn't get in because I was unable to visit. Some larger universities make it easy, just drive over and park (in legal parking) walk the campus and see what's happening. Smaller colleges visitors stick out like sore thumbs so it might be best to call ahead or just drop and see what's happening. The most important thing use the Fall of the senior year to visit whatever college your child is planning to attend. Instead of that big vacation, plan a few weekend trips, take those teacher work days to see a college in full action.
The take away in all of this, if you have an 8th grader, or a child in High school is seriously considering a four year university get started now with visiting colleges and dont' let your ability to pay for testing and applications.
It turns out that not much has changed in the whole college world since I left college last semester. Looking around the room there were concerned looks on the faces of parents. The news that AP classes are the standard their kids must meet to be considered a viable applicant at college was scary. In addition there were the parents in the room who probably never stepped foot on a college campus....news to them the whole process is overwelming to anyone. Its even more to go through alone we you are only 18 years old.
The admissions couselor speaking to us today was a representive from UNC Chapel Hill. UNC CHapel Hill is perhaps one of the most sought after public colleges in the state. I realize being a Pirate I had to sit through her droning on about the tar heel blue but honestly she spoke about her personal expereince and I was right there with her. The experience navigating college admissions pretty much alone. Her experience was her choices in finding a college were limited. Her mother could only afford to visit near by colleges and she was only allowed to apply to one. I nearly cried hearing her story because it sounded so similar to my own. I was only allowed to visit near by schools, my step father was sick in the fall of my senior year and my college acceptance was the last thing on anyone mind but my own. My mother did manage to take to me a college fair and I was very excited. Then reality came, each of those applications I wanted to send off cost $30-$100 for submission. That vastly changed things for me. Several colleges I wanted to attend but at the time my parents simply didn't have the money. I widdled my list to a two colleges with $30 application fees, and held my breath. IF I were lucky I would get in. I actually did get into those two colleges, but my choices of colleges were limited simply because my parents at that point in time didn't have the money to allow me to apply to more than those two colleges. Today though I learned of a wonderful thing called Fee Waiver services from the College Board. The Fee Waiver service allows students to have their fees waived for the SAT, additionally students qualifying for this program can have application fees waived to up to Four colleges and major universities. For more information about this service for your family please visit http://sat.collegeboard.com/register/sat-fee-waivers
The other thing about colleges and universities are visiting. I know for many parents who've attended college in a previous life they want their little ones to attend their Alma mater. That's perfectly fine but believe it or not there's thousands of families with parents that never stepped foot on the campus of a four year university. Or your little darling has no desire to be go to the school you have a life long loyalty too. Its a far cry from the comfort of home and much different than commuting to community college. Visiting the campus of your child's choice is a big step. They might want to go to college with their friends and find that campus life at that college is suiting for them. As a parent you might learn that the college might be surrounded by a not so great neighbor hood, that off campus living isn't feasible. There's tons to consider when looking at living at a four year college. Visiting can help give you that feel. I was able to visit one college only after I had been accepted. One college I applied to I am sure to this day I didn't get in because I was unable to visit. Some larger universities make it easy, just drive over and park (in legal parking) walk the campus and see what's happening. Smaller colleges visitors stick out like sore thumbs so it might be best to call ahead or just drop and see what's happening. The most important thing use the Fall of the senior year to visit whatever college your child is planning to attend. Instead of that big vacation, plan a few weekend trips, take those teacher work days to see a college in full action.
The take away in all of this, if you have an 8th grader, or a child in High school is seriously considering a four year university get started now with visiting colleges and dont' let your ability to pay for testing and applications.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Babywearing cottage industry in trouble because of poor designs....
Poor infant carrier designs by Major Manufactures parents trusted because of the Manufacturer.
This morning I was on my favorite parenting message board, Triangle mommies and came across a CPSC press release. I first reacted with anger. When my DS was little I wore in two slings, one i made myself and I bought from a reputable sling manufacturer, Kangaroo Korner. I remember researching slings and made a conscious decision to stay away from pack carriers like the Bjorn and "bag slings" I thought both might pose a safety risk to my then small infant.
My experience in the baby wearing community was one where Work at Home Moms and Large scale sling producers had their own standard. There were certain materials that were part of the standard, including Heavy Steel Rings, Heavy Nylon rings, Sewing and surging standards. These were primarily set by the manufactures who took pride in thier work and wanted repeat customers and recommendations. Their goals were not entirely bassed on profit.
Things that were avoided were massed produced slings and pack carriers. That included the recently recalled "Infantino Bag Sling." Across the web where baby wearing was discussed I cannot count the times that people were warned of overly massed produced baby carriers. The reasons were often because of construction that might uncomfortable for parents, or dangers to the baby being carried.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a statement demanding there be standards for these products. That's fine but when the product in question has been recalled numerous times, not from WAHM or other sling/carrier producers but from a single manufacture I feel like, as do many other baby wearing parents, the baby has been thrown out with the bath water.
Furthermore the CPSC is also issued a warning to parents of premature infants. Its been long known that Kangaroo care or baby wearing is extremely important in the development of these infants. Parents of Preemies often relied on WAHM slings to carry out the prescribed Kangaroo care. I feel like the CPSC has again gone to far in their warning and should be warning parents of specific sling designs, not just slings and baby wearing entirely.
Sling Manufactures have come against the Warning, read about it here.
http://indianapolis.momslikeme.com/members/JournalActions.aspx?g=246852&m=10754812&source=stream_rail
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2010
Release #10-165
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Infant Deaths Prompt CPSC Warning About Sling Carriers for Babies
WASHINGTON, D.C.- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age. In researching incident reports from the past 20 years, CPSC identified and is investigating at least 14 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers, including three in 2009. Twelve of the deaths involved babies younger than four months of age.
Slings can pose two different types of suffocation hazards to babies. In the first few months of life, babies cannot control their heads because of weak neck muscles. The sling's fabric can press against an infant's nose and mouth, blocking the baby's breathing and rapidly suffocating a baby within a minute or two. Additionally, where a sling keeps the infant in a curled position bending the chin toward the chest, the airways can be restricted, limiting the oxygen supply. The baby will not be able to cry for help and can slowly suffocate.
Many of the babies who died in slings were either a low birth weight twin, were born prematurely, or had breathing issues such as a cold. Therefore, CPSC urges parents of preemies, twins, babies in fragile health and those with low weight to use extra care and consult their pediatricians about using slings.
Two months ago, the Commission added slings to the list of durable infant products that require a mandatory standard. Additionally, CPSC staff is actively investigating these products to determine what additional action may be appropriate. Until a mandatory standard is developed, CPSC is working with ASTM International to quickly complete an effective voluntary standard for infant sling carriers.
CPSC recommends that parents and caregivers make sure the infant's face is not covered and is visible at all times to the sling's wearer. If nursing the baby in a sling, change the baby's position after feeding so the baby's head is facing up and is clear of the sling and the mother's body. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant about frequently checking their baby in a sling.
CPSC is interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are directly related to infant slings. You can do this by visiting www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx or call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772.
This morning I was on my favorite parenting message board, Triangle mommies and came across a CPSC press release. I first reacted with anger. When my DS was little I wore in two slings, one i made myself and I bought from a reputable sling manufacturer, Kangaroo Korner. I remember researching slings and made a conscious decision to stay away from pack carriers like the Bjorn and "bag slings" I thought both might pose a safety risk to my then small infant.
My experience in the baby wearing community was one where Work at Home Moms and Large scale sling producers had their own standard. There were certain materials that were part of the standard, including Heavy Steel Rings, Heavy Nylon rings, Sewing and surging standards. These were primarily set by the manufactures who took pride in thier work and wanted repeat customers and recommendations. Their goals were not entirely bassed on profit.
Things that were avoided were massed produced slings and pack carriers. That included the recently recalled "Infantino Bag Sling." Across the web where baby wearing was discussed I cannot count the times that people were warned of overly massed produced baby carriers. The reasons were often because of construction that might uncomfortable for parents, or dangers to the baby being carried.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a statement demanding there be standards for these products. That's fine but when the product in question has been recalled numerous times, not from WAHM or other sling/carrier producers but from a single manufacture I feel like, as do many other baby wearing parents, the baby has been thrown out with the bath water.
Furthermore the CPSC is also issued a warning to parents of premature infants. Its been long known that Kangaroo care or baby wearing is extremely important in the development of these infants. Parents of Preemies often relied on WAHM slings to carry out the prescribed Kangaroo care. I feel like the CPSC has again gone to far in their warning and should be warning parents of specific sling designs, not just slings and baby wearing entirely.
Sling Manufactures have come against the Warning, read about it here.
http://indianapolis.momslikeme.com/members/JournalActions.aspx?g=246852&m=10754812&source=stream_rail
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2010
Release #10-165
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Infant Deaths Prompt CPSC Warning About Sling Carriers for Babies
WASHINGTON, D.C.- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age. In researching incident reports from the past 20 years, CPSC identified and is investigating at least 14 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers, including three in 2009. Twelve of the deaths involved babies younger than four months of age.
Slings can pose two different types of suffocation hazards to babies. In the first few months of life, babies cannot control their heads because of weak neck muscles. The sling's fabric can press against an infant's nose and mouth, blocking the baby's breathing and rapidly suffocating a baby within a minute or two. Additionally, where a sling keeps the infant in a curled position bending the chin toward the chest, the airways can be restricted, limiting the oxygen supply. The baby will not be able to cry for help and can slowly suffocate.
Many of the babies who died in slings were either a low birth weight twin, were born prematurely, or had breathing issues such as a cold. Therefore, CPSC urges parents of preemies, twins, babies in fragile health and those with low weight to use extra care and consult their pediatricians about using slings.
Two months ago, the Commission added slings to the list of durable infant products that require a mandatory standard. Additionally, CPSC staff is actively investigating these products to determine what additional action may be appropriate. Until a mandatory standard is developed, CPSC is working with ASTM International to quickly complete an effective voluntary standard for infant sling carriers.
CPSC recommends that parents and caregivers make sure the infant's face is not covered and is visible at all times to the sling's wearer. If nursing the baby in a sling, change the baby's position after feeding so the baby's head is facing up and is clear of the sling and the mother's body. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant about frequently checking their baby in a sling.
CPSC is interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are directly related to infant slings. You can do this by visiting www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx or call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Parent Teacher Organization Picking up Budget Cut Tab
If you have ever wondered what exactly Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO) do, besides set up fund raisers and annoy you for membership this blog is about precisely that! There's more to the PTO than fund raisers and membership drives. The PTO encourages parents to get involved with the needs of the school In general, the PTO hosts fun events for the families of the school not only raise money but to provide community building opportunities. The PTGO at the school my youngest attends gives money to each of the teachers, departments, and to help off set the cost of field trip, pay for extra equipment. The ability to contribute to these needs are win win win for parents, teachers and most of all the students.
However, in these tough economic times it would seems that PTO's are playing a much more substantial role. Last night I sat through Cameron Park Elementary schools PTGO meeting. There was the usual discussion of "this is the budget" and "This is where our money is." I want lie I generally zone out during these discussions because frankly, I care enough not to listen. I know we made money, I know its going to be used for a good cause. Then came the old business of sending our 5th graders to the Poe Center. The annual field trip to the Poe Center in Raleigh is a huge deal for the 5th graders. The information shared at the Poe Center is part of Orange County school system's mandated curriculum. In the past, the county had always funded the annual trip. Most parents thought nothing of the trip, signed the permission trip form and off they went. I do recall doing a similar gesture when my step son attended last year. Not once do I believe it was questioned what exactly childern do at the Poe Center, nor do I think parents realized that the trip wasn't free.
Our principal, Dr.Rogers motioned for funds from the PTGO to pay for the field trip. There were some questions in the room as to what exactly happens at the Poe Center, and is there a less expensive route. The teachers were adamant about the value of the experience for 5th graders. Aside from the back and fourth comments between parents and teachers, what was being asked for was clear; The Budget cuts for the year had brought Dr. Rogers to us in a time of need. She had turned to the one organization that could help the with the needs of the students, the PTGO.
I have this feeling that Cameron Park isn't the only PTO in Orange county digging into their surpluses to cover budget short falls. I also wonder how schools are managing without an active PTO or schools that have parents that are financially strapped for money in their own households. Now you can stop wondering about the PTO at your child's school and get active. Show up to the meetings, plan the events, raise the money because chances are your child might lose a learning opportunity without your help.
However, in these tough economic times it would seems that PTO's are playing a much more substantial role. Last night I sat through Cameron Park Elementary schools PTGO meeting. There was the usual discussion of "this is the budget" and "This is where our money is." I want lie I generally zone out during these discussions because frankly, I care enough not to listen. I know we made money, I know its going to be used for a good cause. Then came the old business of sending our 5th graders to the Poe Center. The annual field trip to the Poe Center in Raleigh is a huge deal for the 5th graders. The information shared at the Poe Center is part of Orange County school system's mandated curriculum. In the past, the county had always funded the annual trip. Most parents thought nothing of the trip, signed the permission trip form and off they went. I do recall doing a similar gesture when my step son attended last year. Not once do I believe it was questioned what exactly childern do at the Poe Center, nor do I think parents realized that the trip wasn't free.
Our principal, Dr.Rogers motioned for funds from the PTGO to pay for the field trip. There were some questions in the room as to what exactly happens at the Poe Center, and is there a less expensive route. The teachers were adamant about the value of the experience for 5th graders. Aside from the back and fourth comments between parents and teachers, what was being asked for was clear; The Budget cuts for the year had brought Dr. Rogers to us in a time of need. She had turned to the one organization that could help the with the needs of the students, the PTGO.
I have this feeling that Cameron Park isn't the only PTO in Orange county digging into their surpluses to cover budget short falls. I also wonder how schools are managing without an active PTO or schools that have parents that are financially strapped for money in their own households. Now you can stop wondering about the PTO at your child's school and get active. Show up to the meetings, plan the events, raise the money because chances are your child might lose a learning opportunity without your help.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Summer Camps North of 85
Its that time of year when parents both stay at home and those who work are looking for summer camps. I was recently shocked when I picked up the February issue of Carolina Parent, to find that there were only a few camps listed for Orange county area. For me, the tasks of finding the right camp for each of my three kids seems a bit daunting. I have thought about working this summer and that would mean finding up to 12 weeks of summer camps for three kids. However, in digging around to find camps for 3 kids ages 5, 12, and 14 I have found a lot of camps by making phone calls, and looking for ads while I am out in about.
Also in making this list I was given a copy of the Herald Sun/ Chapel Hill Herald advertising supplement for Summer Camps 2010. This is a wonderful hard copy resource, and after reviewing it some of the camps I have found are also listed and some are not listed. I suggest using both resources.
Below you find camps for the area of Durham and Orange counties located just North of 85. I have included a quick synopsis of the camps offered, contact info, and a web link to details of the camps.
Triangle Sportsplex
The triangle sportsplex offers camps for Fun, Hockey, and Figure Skating.
The kid's plex camps are generally designed for extended care and would be a great option for working parents with school aged childern. The kid's plex camps are for childern age 5-14. Middle School age childern may opt for the Counselor in Training option.
http://www.trianglesportsplex.com/camps.htm
Also offered the at Sportsplex are a number of camps for both Hockey and figure skaters. These camps are hosted either from outside agencies or by Sportsplex staff. Age and experience before attending camp will be determined by the camp. Please visit the website below for more options.
http://www.trianglesportsplex.com/camps_hockey.htm
http://www.trianglesportsplex.com/camps_figure.htm
Summer Sizzle a Camp for just Middle School!
Camps based on agriculture, art and getting dirty were some of my favorite camps when I was a kid. The Orange county extension service is hosting "Summer Sizzle." This particular camp program is designed for Middle School age childern. The camps will run every week from June 28th to July 30th. Price per week is relatively affordable too, at just $100/week per child.
http://orange.ces.ncsu.edu/files/library/68/2010SSInfo-Reg.pdf
Dance Studio Camps
Faulkners new building location is just south of I-85. They are offering a variety of camps, Dance, Gymnastics, Cheer Camps. There will be 4 weeks of camps designed for ages 5 and up, and one very special week devoted to Princess Camp for ages 4 and up. Camp Prices are based on 1/4 , 1/2 and full day pricing.
For Camp Descriptions, Registration deadlines and session dates please call or visit their website.
(919) 732-7591
Faulkner's Dance and Gymnastic's Summer Camps
To the Pointe Dance school is offering several weeks of camps for ages 3 and up. If you are looking for a preschool dance camp, To The Pointe has it. The studio will as be offering intensive dance camps for the more experienced, and did I mention everything in between. Camp sessions prices are listed at Full day and half day prices. For more info and camp descriptions call:For Camp Descriptions, Registration deadlines and session dates please call or visit their website.
(919) 732-7591
919-732-5454
http://www.tothepointedance.com/
Daycare for K-5
In searching for camps for my 5 year old I wanted something that was reliable and consistent should he need to go to camp for the entire summer. Day cares are a great resource for consistent reliable care for summer, that is if your child is still in Elementary school. Day cares often offer camps that include multiple weekly field trips, play time, ect. The other benefit are they are offered on consistent basis through out the summer, rather than random sessions spread through out the summer.
Tiny Tots Day Care will be holding camp sessions at both Tiny Tots Locations. Camps will be limited to a small group of just 13 campers per session unlike other camps that normally host 30 or more campers per session. Camps are designed for childern ages 5-12. Campers can expect 3 field trips per week. Times will be from 7AM-5:30PM. There is no weekly commitment, parents can pay for as many weeks as they will need. Register before March 31st and receive a free campers T-shirt. The camps cost $130/wk and up to a $125 field trip fee. For more info Contact Tiny Tots at
tinytots@embarqmail.com
http://tinytotsandtinytotstoo.com/2.html
Kids Kountry on Roxboro Rd in Durham will be holding Full summer camp for grades k-6 starting in June. Kid's Kountry requires a commitment for every week of the summer. At $95/ week I find the price very affordable for a full time working parent looking for child care. Campers can expect swimming, field trips, roller skating ect. For more info Call or visit Kids Kountry.
(919) 471-2446
6129 North Roxboro Road, Durham, NC 27712-351
Masters Garden Preschool will be offering camps for K to 5th grade through out the summer and will include field trips, play time, arts and crafts, and out door activities. Camp will be held June 14th- August 20th and each week will have a specific them. In speaking with Mary Ann the coordinator for these camps other details such as field trip dates, registration fees, have not been fully set. Please keep an eye on there page for more Info.
7500 Schley Road
Hillborough, NC
919-732-3449
http://www.ebenezeronline.net/index.php?action=page&page_id=40.
Temple Baptist is holding half day camp sessions for pre-school age childern. Camps will run from 9:30- 12:30 each M-F. Each week will feature a different theme. There will be one session for each month of summer. Register early.
4504 Steriling Drive
Durham, NC
(919) 309-0050
templepreschooldurham@gmail.com
http://www.tbcdurham.org/mod/group/view.php?group_id=6
Brook's Day Care in Hillsborough, might also be holding Day camp for school age childern. When I inquired about the possibilities of camps the director told me she would make a decision based on the needs of her customers. Contact:
Kimberly Johnson
919-732-2633
Museum of Life and Science!
The Museum of Life and Science is hosting several camps sessions for childern age 4- Grade 8. Session Themes include, Bugs and Butterflies, Dinosaurs, Lego Robotics, Animals, Chemistry, Forensics, and Movement. From my understanding in the SAHM world these camps are very popular. Registration for these camps have already opened, so if you are thinking about doing one, get in quickly.
433 Murray Avenue, Durham, NC 27704
(919) 220-5429
http://www.ncmls.org/get-involved/camps-and-classes/summer-camp/durham
Horse Back Riding
If you have a son or daughter who loves horses, Northern Orange county is home to TWO horse back riding camps.
Five Star Farm is offering the choice between residential or day camp. In addition to horse back riding, campers can expect small group sizes, swimming, one on one lessons, their own horse. Residential camps are limited to 12 campers each session. Camps will be offered for 10 weeks over the summer, and campers can do as many weeks as they would like. Camps are designed for childern age to 5-15. Offers both drop off and pick up in downtown Hillsborough and Chapel Hill for free. Early registration discount for campers registered before April 1st.
http://www.fivestarfarmnc.com/?n=4
Echo Creek Riding Center is holding camps based on horse rider skill level. There is also a "little legs camps" designed for young riders age 4-7. This camp is located off Hwy 57 out of Hillsborough and is home to the Duke University Equestrian team. For more information about the camps please send an email or leave a message
919-732-5106
ginny@echocreekriding.com
http://echocreekriding.com/camps.php
Rec Department Camps
Recreation Departments in both Orange and Durham counties are holding multiple camp sessions this summer and summer camps for just bout every age.
Orange county Parks and Rec is holding camps at a variety of locations including, Efland Cheeks Community Center, Central Recreation, and Eurosport Soccer Complex. Most of the camps offered are aimed at 7 year old through age 12. There are a few camps for the older childern. For those of you looking for something ABSOLUTELY FREE, check out the Junior Mini Police Academy. This camp is free, but registration for it has already opened, and will probably fill up fast so act quickly. Its aimed at rising 5th-11th grade. Please visit the website for more information on each camp.
http://www.co.orange.nc.us/recparks/Camps.aspRecreation Departments in both Orange and Durham counties are holding multiple camp sessions this summer and summer camps for just bout every age.
Orange county Parks and Rec is holding camps at a variety of locations including, Efland Cheeks Community Center, Central Recreation, and Eurosport Soccer Complex. Most of the camps offered are aimed at 7 year old through age 12. There are a few camps for the older childern. For those of you looking for something ABSOLUTELY FREE, check out the Junior Mini Police Academy. This camp is free, but registration for it has already opened, and will probably fill up fast so act quickly. Its aimed at rising 5th-11th grade. Please visit the website for more information on each camp.
Durham Parks and Rec is holding multiple camps for childern age 5- 12 (note from website "Child cannot turn 13 before camp ends and must have been five by September 1, 2009. Proof of age (birth certificate) is required for all camp registrations." ) These camps must be EXTREMELY popular. If you are in the North Durham area and you want your school age child to attend please read the website carefully. Registration for these camps begin and end on March 20th at the Day camp site of your choice.
http://www.ci.durham.nc.us/departments/parks/summer_camp.cfm
School Based Camps
The public schools of Durham and Orange county will be holding camps for every week of summer. These camps will be held at a variety of public school locations.
Orange County Public Schools will be holding camps each week starting June 21st and ending August 6th. Brochures and registration details will be sent home with Orange County public school students at the end of March. Sites include Central Elementary, Grady Brown Elementary and New Hope Elementary. Camps are limited to a Maximum of 60 campers per site each week. Registration for these camps require a two week minimum commitment but do not have to be consecutive. Registration Deadline is June 10th, but please register early because space is limited. Brochures for these camps should be sent home with your students before spring break. The cost is $130/ week along with a $30 registration fee.
http://www.orange.k12.nc.us/support_services/s_c_relations/summercamp.htmThe public schools of Durham and Orange county will be holding camps for every week of summer. These camps will be held at a variety of public school locations.
Orange County Public Schools will be holding camps each week starting June 21st and ending August 6th. Brochures and registration details will be sent home with Orange County public school students at the end of March. Sites include Central Elementary, Grady Brown Elementary and New Hope Elementary. Camps are limited to a Maximum of 60 campers per site each week. Registration for these camps require a two week minimum commitment but do not have to be consecutive. Registration Deadline is June 10th, but please register early because space is limited. Brochures for these camps should be sent home with your students before spring break. The cost is $130/ week along with a $30 registration fee.
Career Academy for Rising 9th Graders
Camp for all rising 9th graders in Orange County School system. Camp dates are June 21-24th from 8:15AM- 3PM. Students will explore careers in collaboration with Durham Technical Community College, Alamance Community College, and NCCU. Transportation and Registration are Free
For more information Please contact
Patricia Harris
919-245-4012
patricia.harris@orange.k12.nc.us
iWalk The Eno Camp. Free Camp for students Entering the 6th Grade.
Science and Nature camp open to students in orange county schools entering the 6th grade. Registration is free but students must submit and application with personal statement and 5th grade teacher recommendation by March 26th. Applications can be found in the "Orange County Schools Summer camps and Opportunities Brochure." or visit the website for more information.
http://www.iwalktheeno.org/iWalk/About_iWalk.html
Yout Voices
A summer where youth ages 15-19 can earn money while developing leadership skills, providing community service, and work projects that will benefit Northern Orange county. The program runs for 6 weeks from June 21-July 30. Application Deadline is May 28, 2010.
For more information Contact:
Iris Fuller
245-2057
Orange County 4-H
306-E Revere Rd
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Durham County Public Schools. There is a print brochure available with full description of camps held at each Durham county public school sites. Locations include Eno Valley, Hope Valley, Spring Valley, and South West. Registration has already opened, and DCPS is offering free t-shirts to all campers who register before April 1st. Parents may register either in four week blocks or by the week. The fees for the camps varies depending on how you plan to register. Weekly plans start at $130/ week. For more information view the brochure at the link below.
http://www.dpsnc.net/images/pdf/community-education/summer-camp-brochure
Camps Just south of here..but not too far.
There are several camps I found that are just a hop and skip from the area. Additionally, some these camps provide the an option to go day camp or residential. I think these might be a great option for kids who want to try a sleep away camp but aren't sure, they could easily commute if over night wasn't working for them.
Camp Chestnut Ridge
Located in Efland is just south of 85. This camp is run by the NC United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries, Inc. Your childern can expect lots and lots of activities from swimming, canoeing, playing, even a ZIP LINE. This particular camp offers many camps for ages ranging from Completed K-11th grade. In my house this is excellent, and for those of you have a high school age childern who are having a hard time finding something "extra" for them to do this summer. For more info Please visit the website or give them a call. Please note registration has already begun and the dead line is May 1st.
919.338.2820 office 866.372.5801
Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center, 4300 Camp Chestnut Ridge Road, Efland, NC 27243There are several camps I found that are just a hop and skip from the area. Additionally, some these camps provide the an option to go day camp or residential. I think these might be a great option for kids who want to try a sleep away camp but aren't sure, they could easily commute if over night wasn't working for them.
Camp Chestnut Ridge
Located in Efland is just south of 85. This camp is run by the NC United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries, Inc. Your childern can expect lots and lots of activities from swimming, canoeing, playing, even a ZIP LINE. This particular camp offers many camps for ages ranging from Completed K-11th grade. In my house this is excellent, and for those of you have a high school age childern who are having a hard time finding something "extra" for them to do this summer. For more info Please visit the website or give them a call. Please note registration has already begun and the dead line is May 1st.
919.338.2820 office 866.372.5801
http://www.campchestnutridge.org/index.php/summer-camp/12-summer-camp-2009
New Hope Camp and Conference Center
This camp is offering both day and residential camps, with three different choices of camps to choose from. Camp choices include day camp, traditional residential camp, and MADD camp (with an emphasis on Music, acting, dance, and drama) Residential camps are from Raising 5ht grade and up, Day camps are for Children K-6th. According the website there is an "early Bird" special if you register before April 1st but this is a popular camp and sessions fill up quickly. For more info please call or visit their website.
Phone: 919-942-4716
New Hope Camp & Conference Center
4805 N Carolina 86 Chapel Hill, NC 27514
http://www.newhopeccc.org/daycamp.shtml
Carolina Friends School
Camps will be held on the Carolina Friend school campus. I have in hand a brochure and they are offering just about every type of day camp one could come up with. Examples of camps include art, dance, theater, robotics, engineering and sports. These camps are designed for ages 4-15. Please visit their website to pick the camp that is right for your child.
4809 Friends School Rd, Durham, NC
919-384-9089
http://www.cfsnc.org/page.cfm?p=611
If you are in North Durham there's a few "just south of here" camps that might peek your interest. The Durham YMCA, and Duke University are offering lots of different camps and camp sessions.
The Durham YMCA
The YMCA will be holding day camp at multiple locations. Camps will be geared for childern age 3-Rising 10th grade. Sessions will be offered through out the summer and might include such activities as sports, art, play, drama, ect. Registration for YMCA members opens March 15th, and for the general public on April 12th. Registration is due no later than the Thursday prior to camp.
Give them a call at 919- 667-9622 or visit them
http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Durham_YMCAs/Programs/Youth/Summer_Day_Camp.aspx
Duke University is offering many camps this summer. IT seems they have something for every child. Duke will have sports camps for Baseball, Field Hockey, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Soccer, Wrestling and more. Please see this article for more details. Some camps have commuter pricing alone with residential prices.
http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=4200&ATCLID=152163
Duke will also have many academic and arts camps including, Biotechnology, Computer, Drama, Writing, ect. One of the camps is aimed exclusively at young women. Please visit the link below.
http://www.learnmore.duke.edu/youth/
Disclaimer: Please note that this information is as correct as possible after reading, compiling the information from websites, and phone calls. Information may change without prior notice, so please use this resources as a guide to finding a summer camp for your child. Also please note that I do not personally endorse any of the camps listed and have not been paid to list these camps on this website.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Yes, faking can lead to success.
So life here in Northern Orange county can be as busy as anyone desires. For me its a combination of many things that includes hockey, camps, school, social functions, working out, you name it I have no trouble keeping busy if I do desire to be busy. It seems like every day I can find something to productively or non productively spend my time. Recently, its been the Summer camps list I am working so hard to bring to this blog and hopefully by this weekend the list will be comprehensive enough to bring to you, the reader. Other things have kept me busy in a different way, and one way has lead to an accidental discovery. While the discovery probably is more widely known to other people, this discovery well means telling a story of how I uncovered it for myself.
While I don't consider myself a wonder woman or domestic executive, I do consider myself rather good at appearing good at both and many times unintentionally. I generally appear to have all the answers when my kids need them and things look pretty organized and easy going from the outside. Earlier this week I was faced with a problem that lead to both appearing to be wonder woman and powerful domestic executive. It starts one thing that every one deals with, LAUNDRY. We all have it, and I haven't met one person who actively loves the details of moving this task along, stain removal, folding technique, or the mundane sorting....(okay maybe a 3 year old who's just discovered the difference between colors and dark). In general laundry is all done the same in my house, its washed as one load in warm water with some sort of natural Laundry detergent. Even the stains, should any show up are often ignored and might get pre-treated should the notion strike me. Sometimes, I get extra inspired or disgusted (haven't really pin pointed this yet) by the dingy whites and I might turn the washer to Hot water, and add a Cup of Clorox to the wash.
Enough, about how I actually do laundry lets get to that discovery I made about laundry, and my ability to appear rather wonder woman like. My Step daughter came to me this past weekend distraught. Her favorite flannel pajama pants and hoodie she'd borrowed from a friend at school had gum on them. She said and I quote "Some how a piece of gum got into my bed, and I don't know how." I'll stop the discussion on my discovery for this topic. Chances are her obsessive teenage girl gum chewing is the reason gum mysteriously got into her bed and ended up all over her clothes. Now being the mother figure of the house (did mention in all of this that she's responsible for washing and folding 90% of the laundry in the house) she comes to me wanting me to remove the gum because somehow laundry care is an inate trait a woman gains once given birth to childern. Of course not knowing the first thing about how to get rid of the gum from her clothes, I play on past experiences from my life when I was child (not motherhood). I immediately think of the morning when I was 5 years old. I woke up one morning before school with bubble gum stuck all over me. I had gum in my long (and I mean waist length hair) to boot. My mother rubbed by hair with Peanut butter, and my hair was peanut butter free in no time. A little White Rain shampoo, and Viola! I was ready for school.
That previous experience, not that innate trait giving to me because of labor pains, led me to instructing my step daughter to get the peanut butter. She was upset and the idea of doing this herself was too much, so I "tabled" the clothes for a later time, like when I might be willing to test this past experience idea on these beloved clothes. Tabling the clothes also has an added and unintended benefit. These happen to be those favorite clothes that her father and I get tired of seeing her wear. So for me, I wouldn't have to hear her dad and her go rounds over the "dirty pants and disgusting hoodie."
Monday, I put the peanut butter on the gum, and well the results were: nothing happened immediately or at least I couldn't tell it was working. The gum wasn't coming off simply because I'd spread on peanut butter, and that left me a bit stressed. Lord knows I cannot tell a 14 year old girl that I had failed miserably at removing gum, one item being her favorite and the second, something that belong to someone else. She was depending on me to work some sort of womanly miracle In that moment I thought to myself "I'll have to let this sit a while, until I figure out what to do." That same day my step daughter came to me and asked "How's the gum removal going." I did what any caring mother would do for a child..I told her the truth. "It has to sit a while." You darn right it had to sit awhile! I has no idea how the heck that gum was going to come out of those clothes. The only thing I could keep thinking was she was going to be upset and I'd have to pick that gum fiber by fiber out her clothes (okay not really, I don't have that much time on my SAHM while kids are in school hands.) However, that's just what those clothes did. They sat a top the washer while I thought of something else to do until yesterday. When I realized I hadn't thought of anything. Actually, I had not thought of dealing with clothes at all on Tuesday, and here it was Wednesday. Those clothes now not only had gum on them but they now had crusted Smart Balance Peanut butter on them too. Considering, I wash just about everything in the house the same, and those clothes at this point were ruined, I put them in the washer. What else was I supposed to do! Hand wash them and pick gum out of the fibers? Today, I returned to the washer and it was like Christmas morning. I wanted to see what I had gotten. I got a huge and wonderful surprise, those clothes were clean. Even more remarkable than them being free of gum after the wash, there are no visible grease spots from the peanut butter.
Personally, I am impressed with what I found. Secondly, only today have I read about methods to remove gum. A little late for research? Perhaps. Did it matter? Only if the gum hadn't come out in the first place? For the purposes of this blog however, I found some links to other gum removal methods. Thrifyfun Wikihow . None of the suggestions include just peanut butter and waiting nearly 2 days to wash the clothing. In fact, everything I have read seems pretty labor intensive, even for someone who has extra time on their hands, and wants to appear to be able to solve world hunger.
What have a learned from all of this. I discovered a rather passive and labor less way of removing gum from clothing. My Step Daughter will be thrilled that she can once again wear her PJ pants until they take on some sort of life of their own and walk around by themselves. The hoodie will be returned to its rightful owner, not only free of gum by with the light smell of lavender and a bit of added softness. Finally, my faking the ability to be a wonder woman of laundry lead to success!
While I don't consider myself a wonder woman or domestic executive, I do consider myself rather good at appearing good at both and many times unintentionally. I generally appear to have all the answers when my kids need them and things look pretty organized and easy going from the outside. Earlier this week I was faced with a problem that lead to both appearing to be wonder woman and powerful domestic executive. It starts one thing that every one deals with, LAUNDRY. We all have it, and I haven't met one person who actively loves the details of moving this task along, stain removal, folding technique, or the mundane sorting....(okay maybe a 3 year old who's just discovered the difference between colors and dark). In general laundry is all done the same in my house, its washed as one load in warm water with some sort of natural Laundry detergent. Even the stains, should any show up are often ignored and might get pre-treated should the notion strike me. Sometimes, I get extra inspired or disgusted (haven't really pin pointed this yet) by the dingy whites and I might turn the washer to Hot water, and add a Cup of Clorox to the wash.
Enough, about how I actually do laundry lets get to that discovery I made about laundry, and my ability to appear rather wonder woman like. My Step daughter came to me this past weekend distraught. Her favorite flannel pajama pants and hoodie she'd borrowed from a friend at school had gum on them. She said and I quote "Some how a piece of gum got into my bed, and I don't know how." I'll stop the discussion on my discovery for this topic. Chances are her obsessive teenage girl gum chewing is the reason gum mysteriously got into her bed and ended up all over her clothes. Now being the mother figure of the house (did mention in all of this that she's responsible for washing and folding 90% of the laundry in the house) she comes to me wanting me to remove the gum because somehow laundry care is an inate trait a woman gains once given birth to childern. Of course not knowing the first thing about how to get rid of the gum from her clothes, I play on past experiences from my life when I was child (not motherhood). I immediately think of the morning when I was 5 years old. I woke up one morning before school with bubble gum stuck all over me. I had gum in my long (and I mean waist length hair) to boot. My mother rubbed by hair with Peanut butter, and my hair was peanut butter free in no time. A little White Rain shampoo, and Viola! I was ready for school.
That previous experience, not that innate trait giving to me because of labor pains, led me to instructing my step daughter to get the peanut butter. She was upset and the idea of doing this herself was too much, so I "tabled" the clothes for a later time, like when I might be willing to test this past experience idea on these beloved clothes. Tabling the clothes also has an added and unintended benefit. These happen to be those favorite clothes that her father and I get tired of seeing her wear. So for me, I wouldn't have to hear her dad and her go rounds over the "dirty pants and disgusting hoodie."
Monday, I put the peanut butter on the gum, and well the results were: nothing happened immediately or at least I couldn't tell it was working. The gum wasn't coming off simply because I'd spread on peanut butter, and that left me a bit stressed. Lord knows I cannot tell a 14 year old girl that I had failed miserably at removing gum, one item being her favorite and the second, something that belong to someone else. She was depending on me to work some sort of womanly miracle In that moment I thought to myself "I'll have to let this sit a while, until I figure out what to do." That same day my step daughter came to me and asked "How's the gum removal going." I did what any caring mother would do for a child..I told her the truth. "It has to sit a while." You darn right it had to sit awhile! I has no idea how the heck that gum was going to come out of those clothes. The only thing I could keep thinking was she was going to be upset and I'd have to pick that gum fiber by fiber out her clothes (okay not really, I don't have that much time on my SAHM while kids are in school hands.) However, that's just what those clothes did. They sat a top the washer while I thought of something else to do until yesterday. When I realized I hadn't thought of anything. Actually, I had not thought of dealing with clothes at all on Tuesday, and here it was Wednesday. Those clothes now not only had gum on them but they now had crusted Smart Balance Peanut butter on them too. Considering, I wash just about everything in the house the same, and those clothes at this point were ruined, I put them in the washer. What else was I supposed to do! Hand wash them and pick gum out of the fibers? Today, I returned to the washer and it was like Christmas morning. I wanted to see what I had gotten. I got a huge and wonderful surprise, those clothes were clean. Even more remarkable than them being free of gum after the wash, there are no visible grease spots from the peanut butter.
Personally, I am impressed with what I found. Secondly, only today have I read about methods to remove gum. A little late for research? Perhaps. Did it matter? Only if the gum hadn't come out in the first place? For the purposes of this blog however, I found some links to other gum removal methods. Thrifyfun Wikihow . None of the suggestions include just peanut butter and waiting nearly 2 days to wash the clothing. In fact, everything I have read seems pretty labor intensive, even for someone who has extra time on their hands, and wants to appear to be able to solve world hunger.
What have a learned from all of this. I discovered a rather passive and labor less way of removing gum from clothing. My Step Daughter will be thrilled that she can once again wear her PJ pants until they take on some sort of life of their own and walk around by themselves. The hoodie will be returned to its rightful owner, not only free of gum by with the light smell of lavender and a bit of added softness. Finally, my faking the ability to be a wonder woman of laundry lead to success!
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