Music, choral and dance camps can energize your summer.

by CP & Nicole Knauss

It is easy to understand that the activities children and teens are involved in shape their lives and choosing the programs that will most significantly impact their overall development is daunting. Since there is a national focus on the importance of children leading a healthy and active life, there is an emphasis on sports and outdoor activities in today’s curriculum plans.

Students from the Chattanooga Girls Choir learn how to put on a production, smiling all the way!

What is publicized less in our society is how programs like choir, dance programs, music camps or theatre can be educational while also promoting physical health.  Families should consider summer programs that focus on both the mind and the body.

In the past decade there have been many studies, research and articles dedicated to the impact of music education on children. The research agrees that music education, especially during the developmental years, nurtures a life long appreciation of music and helps develop self-esteem, teamwork, community building, cultural understanding and overall enhancement of academic skills in general.

Studies across the globe are now proving a connection between singing in a group setting, enhanced health and positive emotional benefits. Researchers in Germany and California are making connections between performing and an increase in a singer’s level of immunity building proteins. In the UK’s Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health, there was a report about improved lung capacity, high energy, relieved asthma, better posture, and enhanced feelings of relaxation, mood, and confidence in singers.

Even with proven benefits, music education as part of the school curricula has been on the decline. Faced with strict core class goals and budget cuts, more and more schools are scaling back or eliminating music programs from elementary and middle school curriculum.

As cuts like this take place, the importance of educational activities outside of school programming is increasing. A well-organized program allows students to be actively and creatively engaged in learning in a group setting. The activities not only increase knowledge and understanding of the subject, they also promote an appreciation of the art form and build community within its participants. Summer arts programs are time well-spent for participants

Music & Dance Camp Listings

Ballet Tennessee and VanCura Ballet Conservatory

Summer dance camps

3202 Kelly’s Ferry Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37419

423-821-2055

BalletTennessee.org

June Dance Camps, June Evening Classes, June and July Summer Intensives: The world of dance opens up to all when you enroll at VanCura Ballet Conservatory or Ballet Tennessee Summer Dance Sampler at MACC. Discover creative movement through music,stories and games. Aspiring ballerinas and premier danseurs will learn in beautifully crafted

ballet classes. Explore modern dance, improvisations and how to make your own dances. Learn

choreography from the esteemed Ballet Tennessee faculty. Meet guest artists and be inspired!

Enrollment is open until classes and intensives are full. The intensives require an audition, call and ask for Mrs. VanCura to set up an audition. For registration information:

www.BalletTennessee.org or call (423) 821-2055.

Barking Legs Theatre

Brain Dance & Circus camp

1307 Dodds Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-624-5347

BarkingLegs.org

Cadek Conservatory of Music

Suzuki Strings and Piano Summer Camp

Cadek Hall, UTC

725 Oak St.

Chattanooga, TN 37403

423-425-4624

UTC.edu/Outreach/CadekConservatory

Chattanooga Boys Choir

423-634-2299

www.chattanoogaboyschoir.org

Chattanooga Folk School

Summer camp programs with instruction in a variety of musical instruments.

250 Forest Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-827-8906

www.chattanoogafolk.com

Creating A Musical Summer Workshop

Chattanooga Girls Choir and the Chattanooga Theatre Centre

Gender: Boys and Girls

400 River Street

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-296-1006

www.chattanoogagirlschoir.com

Ages: 9 to 12 years old

Time: 9am – 4pm

Cost: $350 for 2 week camp

Chattanooga Theatre Centre Summer Academy

400 River Street

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-267-8534

Summer Academy 2012

Registration @ www.TheatreCentre.com

Hamilton Academy of Dance

Classical Ballet, Tap Dance, Jazz Dance, Modern & Ballroom

Boy’s exercise & Tap,

8509A Hixson Pike

Chattanooga, TN 37343

423-598-8786

www.hamiltonballet.com

Kindermusik at First Baptist Church of Fine Arts

Adventures Camp

401 Gateway Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37402

423-265-2601

FBCChattanooga.org

La Petite Academy Summer Camp

Knoxville, TN 37931

1-877-861-5078

www.lapetite.com

Mountain Arts Community Center

Summer Fun Camps of MACC

Theater, art, music, ballet

809 Kentucky Ave.

Signal Mountain, TN 37377

423-886-1959

by Jennifer Crutchfield

v a * c a * t i o n (noun)
an extended period of recreation, especially one spent away from home or in traveling

a period spent away from home of business in travel or recreation

Enjoy underwater adventure with your family at the Tennessee Aquarium.

I confess. The word ‘vacation’ strikes terror in my heart.  It conjures memories of scary airports, sketchy countries, hours of driving and the inevitable pretzel formation that was the ride home. Our family vacations always ended with my brother and I making room for the rocking chair or brass milk jugs that had to come home with us.  As an Army family we got to live in lots of states and travel to some really neat countries and my parents were really eager to make sure that we got to experiences the culture of the places we were and the countries or states around it.

As a mom I want those same things for my sons, expanding horizons, finding recreation in our region and exploring our geographic boundaries.  We try to make sure that we have adventures and experiences, avoiding grueling drives, lines, and things that take the fun out of the recreation!

The southeast Tennessee region has been a hub since prehistoric days, many of our well-worn paths and highways originally traversed by ancient herds and people.  Our central location allows the opportunity to plan a vacation, whether it’s a week or a weekend, that doesn’t break the bank and doesn’t take a whole day to get to.  The combination of places to stay, things to do and experiences to have together can fill a scrapbook, of Facebook page, with fun memories.

Surfing, Sun and Wilderness Fun in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Alexander Tuttle was "hanging 10" at the indoor waterpark, surfing in style while it was cold outside!

Hang 10 and surf’s up were the most-heard phrases when we traveled to Pigeon’s Forge and visited the indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies.  The combination of convenience, fun and a great facility made this an amazing adventure for our family.  Wilderness at the Smokies (www.wildernessattehsmokies.com) has everything to keep a family happy, without even leaving the property!

Spring 2012 is the grand opening of the Adventure Forest indoor dry park that features a 3-story ropes course, a 25-foot spring ride, a laser maze, interactive playhouse, birthday party rooms, black light mini golf, mini bowling and an arcade room.  This new area will have special rooms for birthday parties and special bundles and packages make more fun affordable.

The indoor waterpark is just amazing!  As a parent it was an absolute joy to watch my boys have so much fun.  I love taking my sons to the beach but the open water always makes me a little nervous and that heightened state of alert doesn’t make for a relaxing time for me.  The indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies had lifeguards, restaurants and a professional staff that made my experience as a parent enjoyable.  The boys got to surf, loved the wave pool and were absolutely wild over the waterslide rides.

Needless to say, they all slept very well and the rooms accommodated our group comfortably.  It was the first time my sons had seen a “Murphy Bed” and it and the couches that turned into beds made sleeping an adventure too.  The kitchen had everything that I needed so that we could have snacks and simple meals in between other activities.  We enjoyed the terrific restaurants on site and I loved that they had so many “kids eat free” deals.  The wireless internet worked throughout the facility and the fitness center was well appointed and very clean.

Between the free kid’s meal, the arcades and the indoor and outdoor waterparks it was hard to get my children to go home!  The combination of family accommodations, convenience and flat out fun make Wilderness in the Smokies a terrific family adventure.  Be sure to bring your sunscreen (even in the indoor park on an overcast winter day!), pack snacks (see our trail mix recipes in this issue) and be prepared to leave happy, smiling and tired.

The Lost Sea, its lessons and legends

The Lost Sea (www.thelostsea.com) is a terrific adventure for families.  The caves, history, nature and science of the experience are a perfect example of learning cloaked in entertainment.  Proud children will regale you with facts about stalagmites, stalagtites, columns, bats, mold and other exciting science after this tour.

The guides are great, very knowledgable and happy to answer questions.  Children learning about physical sciences and geology will find that the tour is the real-life of what they learned and students who are about to learn those lessons will carry them confidently to share with their teachers and peer students.  The lessons of time, erosion, tectonic plates, the Civil War gunpower production are tangible experiences in these caves.

The underwater lake and its inhabitants are an exciting mystery in nature that illustrates things children have (or will have) learned in class.  The albino trout represent an animal changing because of its environmental influences, growing larger because of a lack of predators and losing pigment because of a lack of sunlight.  Learning together is fun and providing a real life experience that illustrates a school lesson reinforces learning while building family memories.

The Lost Sea is easily accessible from the highway.  There is ample parking and lots of picnic benches so that you can bring lunch to have after your tour.  Their gift shop is terrific and several art vendors are usually on site.

Ghosts, underwater adventure and absolute luxury in Chattanooga, Tennessee

It’s hard to go wrong in Chattanooga because there is always something to do and something new to experience.  Do you remember the old adage “when Mother is happy everyone is happy”?  Choosing the Chattanoogan Hotel as your base of operations is going to make everyone happy, especially Mom.

When the Chattanoogan says that they are a AAA Four Diamond rated property they really mean it.  The beds are luxurious, the property is pristine and the restaurants on site are taste treats. The Sunday brunch was so amazing I watched in delight as my boys put away plate after plate of healthy and delicious food.  They were so excited by the beautiful presentation and savory smells they were adventurous in their selections and discovered that they liked foods I have been trying to get them to eat for years!  Whether they were staff or visitors everyone there smiled and when a mom is traveling with three boys smiles are important!

The Chattanoogan Hotel (www.chattanooganhotel.com) has Spring Break special offers that include family passes to the Tennessee Aquarium and the location is so central that there is always something fun to do in walking distance or with a fun, free electric CARTA shuttle bus ride.  The art tour on the property was fascinating and the historic forges provided interesting glimpses into what was happening on the same site over a hundred years ago.  The pool was warm, inviting and relaxing with an amazing view of Lookout Mountain and was a perfect way to end a fun day of exploring.

Visiting the River Journey and Ocean Journey at the Tennessee Aquarium (www.tnaqua.org) is a wonderful way to explore with children.  Tickets allow entrance over a 2-day period so that families can enjoy both sites and the the electric CARTA buses provide for easy access to other adventures that will build memories.

The River Gorge Explorer (www.tnaqua.org) is a breathtaking adventure on a revolutionary wakeless watercraft.  Traveling through the Grand Canyon of the South you and your family will see birds of prey, magnificent mountains and a series of vistas that have drawn travelers and pioneers for hundreds of years.  The IMAX experience beginning March is The Last Reef 3-D and is sure to be an inspiration to budding naturalists and future adventurers.

The Tennessee Aquarium’s spring break program, Keeper’s Kids, is a really neat way for children to experience the behind-the-scenes action, interacting with the staff and the wildlife while Mom and Dad explore other Chattanooga attractions.  Restaurants abound in walking distance of the Chattanoogan Hotel and the electric CARTA buses are an adventure for everyone.

The Vaudeville Cafe (www.funnydinner.com) combines dinner with entertainment and is a neat opportunity to laugh with your kids as you join in the story with a delicious dinner.

Ghosts are hard for anyone to resist and when we scanned the opportunities for a vacation evening activity the Chattanooga Ghost Tours (www.chattanoogaghosttours.com) was an instant must-see.  Chattanooga’s downtown is a great place for walking and the Chattanooga Ghost Tour was a huge success.  Our guide was a wonderfully engaging storyteller, Hope Holloway, and she led us on an adventure through the ghosts, mysteries and history that make Chattanooga such an engaging city to visit.  From the Hunter Museum to the Sheraton Read House we were led on an exciting tour of Chattanooga’s past and present.

Hop a Chattanooga Choo-Choo for the afternoon at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-see trip for families.  The TVRM (www.tvrail.com) is an important part of Chattanooga and its history.  Chattanooga and Knoxville were strategic points on the railroad system during the Civil War and this museum preserves some of those lines and has an amazing stable of historic trains to ride on and explore.

There are a variety of seasonal specials, promotions and events, please visit them at www.tvrail.com for schedules and pricing.   The experience of riding the train, watching the engine spin around for the return journey and seeing the historic collection of cars and engines is thrilling for even the biggest kid!

Traveling with children can be daunting, exhausting and frustrating.  It can also be relaxing, enjoyable and create lasting memories of bonding moments.  We always recommend that you talk to your children about some of the options for your family adventures.  Consider that sometimes a few days in town doing things that you wouldn’t ordinarily do together combined with an overnight or weekend adventure can make for a very affordable experience.

Wilderness at the Smokies

1-877-325- WILD (9453)

www.wildernessatthesmokies.com

Caption Box 2:

The Chattanoogan Hotel

1-888-253-1628

www.chattanooganhotel.com

Chattanooga Ghost Tours

www.chattanoogaghosttours.com

423-821-7125

Creative Discovery Museum

info@cdmfun.org

www.cdmfun.org

423-756-2738

Tennessee Aquarium

1-800-262-0695

www.tnaqua.com

Launch your child into the future with fun, academic summer camps

by CP & Ellie Wallis

Today’s parents face the challenge of preparing their children for a rewarding and fulfilling future while working hard to support the present.  Summer can present schedules challenges that frazzle hard-working parents.  The answers to both questions can lie in the academic and enrichment summer programs available in our region.

Like a perfect Chinese dinner you can choose between categories of camps to provide your children with a well-rounded schedule of day or overnight camps that can inspire, educate and entertain.  One mother who shared an experience with us, said “My son came out of Philanthropy Camp with a new view of things. For the first time, he really saw himself as someone who could—and should—make a difference in the world.”

The National Assessment of Educational Progress reports that less than one third of eighth graders in the United States show proficiency in science and math. A report from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) notes ”many American students conclude early in their education that STEM subjects are boring, too difficult, or unwelcoming, leaving them ill-prepared to meet the challenges that will face their generation.”

According the U.S. Department of Education, only one in six college students in Tennessee and Georgia enroll in science, technology, engineering, or math degree programs and experts warn that the United States’ workforce is facing a looming shortage of talent in STEM fields. The PCAST report concludes “in order to improve STEM education, we must focus on both preparation and inspiration”.

STEM initiatives improve standardized test scores and promote college readiness. Project-based STEM learning engages students, teaches towards a higher level of thinking, improves problem-solving skills, and builds learners for life.  Created as a living memorial to the seven astronauts of the 1986 Challenger 51-L crew, the Challenger Center at UTC uses students’ natural enthusiasm for space to create innovative learning experiences for imaginative young minds.

Building good citizens, broadening young horizons and expanding the future can define your child’s summer and between vacations and school physicals you will be rewarded with the changes you see.  Enrichment comes in all forms and a well-balanced camp schedule can prepare a child for the new grade and expectations ahead.

Academic/Enrichment Camp Listings

Avondale Seventh Day Adventist

Enrichment program, reading and math skills camps

1201 N. Orchard Knob Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37406

423-698-5028

Baylor School

Summer Enrichment Programs

171 Baylor School Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-757-2616

BaylorSchool.org

Summer is a great time to try something new, and Baylor School offers several enrichment programs throughout the summer for children of all ages. Our highly individualized programs provide a fantastic camper-to-staff ratio, ensuring that each child is able to benefit from their summer experience. Programs include fly-fishing, sailing, art, dance, and more. Go to BaylorSchool.org for camp sessions and details. Easy online registration makes it convenient to sign up for a summer’s worth of fun.

Berean Baptist Daycare

441 Berean Lane

Hixson, TN 37343

423-877-1289

www.bereanacademy.net

Boyd-Buchanan School Summer Academic & Sports Camps

4626 Bonnieway Drive

Chattanooga, TN 37411

423-624-9064 x248

hhughes@bbschool.org

www.bbschool.org

Brainerd Baptist Summer Camp

300 Brookfield Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37411

423-622-3873

ccreed@brainerdbaptist.org

www.brainerdbaptistschool.org

Brainy Camp @ LearningRx of Chattanooga

www.learningrx.com/chattanooga-east

423-305-1599

A FUN summer camp program that will help prepare your child for the next school year.

Brain games to build Learning Skills with Certified Brain Trainers

Martial Arts for the Brain – Attack Learning Struggles by strengthening cognitive skills

Train the Brain to Work Smarter Not Harder

Bright School

Bright Summer Funstitute

Day camp, specialty camps, pre-k camp

SAACS accredited

1950 Hixson Pk.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-267-8546

BrightSchool.com

Bridgemont Ministries

3620 Katy Hollar Road

Sevierville, TN 37862

865-453-8841

Camp Big Fish

www.campbigfish.org

423-400-1504

Camp Big Fish is a 10 week Christian Summer Day Camp that focuses on kids having a fun and exciting summer.  Our camp includes sports, swimming, guest speakers, art, music, bible and devotion time, and clubs (slip and slide, cooking, golf, computers, foosball, dance, soccer, water balloons, gymnastics, etc).  We go on weekly field trips to I-Max, Lookouts, J103, Aquarium, Bowling and other fun places.  We pray that children will experience being loved and cared for and that all will grow in their relationship with Christ.  Campers entering kindergarten through eighth grade are accepted.

Camp Invention

June 4-8

Ooltewah Elementary

June 11-15

Ganns Middle Valley Elementary

June 18-22

Normal Park Upper Magnet School

Knoxville

June 4-8

A.L.Lotts Elementary

Hardin Valley Elementary

June 11-15

Karns Elementary

Holston View Elementary (Bristol)

Cedar Bluff Elementary

June 18-22

West Hills Elementary

June 25-29

Farragut Intermediate

Led by local educators, the weeklong Camp Invention program immerses children entering grades one to six in exciting, hands-on learning disguised as summer fun. Children will construct life-sized clubhouses in which to crack puzzling codes and solve a mystery, investigate polymer science to create bouncy balls, explore innovative survival traits of the planet’s WILDest animals, and upcycle parts from discarded household appliances to create new machines! Ooltewah Elementary June 6-10, Gann’s Middle Valley Elementary June 13-17 and Normal Park Upper Magnet School June 20-24. Discounts available – register today! Call 800.968.4332 or visit www.campinvention.org.

Camp New Dawn

New Dawn International Ministries

Day & Sleepaway

Address: 226 S. Cedar Lane, Chickamauga, GA 30707

Phone/fax: 706-539-2235/ 706-539-2324*

Web address: www.campnewdawnga.org

Mini Camp-June 15-17, grades 2-3, is an opportunity to learn what camp is all about.

Kid’s Camp I & II-June 19-24 & June 26-July 1, grades 4-8, is a fun week of traditional camp activities and includes a camp out.

Cove Adventure camp-July 3-8, grades 9-12. This week will include off-site camping and adventure activities.

Soccer Camp-July 10-15, featuring professional trainers for boys and girls entering grades 1-12.

Civil War Camp-July 17-22, grades 4-12, see history come alive through trips to battlefields and Civil War sites combined with interaction with Civil War re-enactors.

All camps include worship and Bible lessons.

Camp Webb

Specialty Camps

9800 Webb School Drive

Knoxville, TN 37923

865-693-0011

www.webbschool.org

Camp Zoo-Ability

Chattanooga Zoo @ Warner Park

City’s Therapeutic Recreation Program week-long day camp for individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities.

3 One-week Sessions

Call Elaine Adams @ 697-1345

Adams_e@chattanooga.gov

Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center

400 Garden Road

Chattanooga, TN 37419

423-821-1160

kwaggener@chattanature.org

www.chattanooganaturecenter.org

Chattanooga School of Language

Language camps for children and families.

423-802-2040

info@chattanoogalanguage.com

wwww.chattanoogalanguage.com

Chattanooga Theatre Center Academic Summer Camps

400 River Street

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-267-8534

www.theatrecentre.com

Camp Invention

June 4-8

Ooltewah Elementary

June 11-15

Ganns Middle Valley Elementary

June 18-22

Normal Park Upper Magnet School

Knoxville

June 4-8

A.L.Lotts Elementary

Hardin Valley Elementary

June 11-15

Karns Elementary

Holston View Elementary (Bristol)

Cedar Bluff Elementary

June 18-22

West Hills Elementary

June 25-29

Farragut Intermediate

City of Chattanooga Parks & Recreation Department

Kidz Kamp

All City Recreation Centers

Swimming, the Spray & Play at Warner Park, Special Events, Sports, Art, Wellness, Outdoor recreation, field trips and more.

Register your child for the entire summer and save money!

4 two-week sessions

Call Kim Battle at 643-6052

www.chattanooga.gov/parks&recreation

City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Division

Summer Playground Program

All City Recreation Centers

865-215-1414

www.ci.knoxville.tn.us/recreation/

UTC Challenger Learning Center

Cosmic Space Quest

Space/STEM (science, technology, engineering, math)

855 E. 5th St.

Chattanooga, TN 37403

423-425-4126

UTC.edu/ChallengerCenter

The Challenger Learning Center on the campus of UTC offers space-themed, science and technology camps. Our Cosmic Space Quests are available for potty-trained pre-schoolers through rising 8th graders, and range from $35 to $275. 1/2  Day Mini Quest: 4 & 5 year old astronauts, 1 Day Planet Exploration: Rising 1st–3rd grade astronauts, 2 Day Mars Quest: Rising 4th-5th grade astronauts, 5 Day Universe Exploration: 5th-8th grade astronauts. Your campers will participate in fun and exciting activities while learning about the Universe, aviation, space missions, and much more! Come experience our Cosmic Space Camps that are out of

this world!!

Creative Discovery Museum Spring Break & Summer Camps

321 Chestnut Street

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-756-2738

alb@cdmfun.org

www.cdmfun.org

Creative Discovery Museum Science Theatre

Multi-disciplinary science camp

255 Northgate Mall

Chattanooga, TN 37415

423-875-8522 or 423-875-0818

CDMScienceTheatre.com

Creative Discovery Museum summer camps provide wonderful opportunities for children to explore the Museum in a unique way.  Our experienced staff provides a safe, fun camp filled with Museum play, crafts, games, time in Culinary Corner, outdoor field trips and much, much more. Each weekly adventure is focused on a theme.  This year’s themes range from Bob the Builder and Campers in the Kitchen to Fairy Tales and Camp X: Explosions, Experiments and other Exciting Explorations.   Camps are geared for children ages 4 -10.  For more information, visit our website at www.cdmfun.org or call camp reservations at 423-648-6045 or 648-6040.

Folk School Music Camp

The Folk School of Chattanooga (formerly the Mountain Music Folk School)

Music Day Camp

250 Forest Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

www.chattanoogafolk.com

423-827-8906

Girls Incorporated of Chattanooga

Teen Career Academies

Journalism, law, entrepreneurship and health

SciGirls Summer Camp

Summer day camp focusing on science

Girls aged 13–18

Various locations, downtown Chattanooga

423-624-4757

GirlsIncChattBlog.com

Girls Preparatory School

GPS Summer Programs

Athletic/academic/enrichment

205 Island Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-634-3457

GPS.edu/Camps

Camp Kaleidoscope introduces elementary school age campers to a different story world each day. Creative adventures in art, science and athletics create sparkling minds and sound bodies.

Bruiser Camp participants in grades 4-7 experience exciting activities on and off campus from art and adventure to science and sports.

Academic courses are offered for students who need review or who want to get ahead of the game with a full credit course.

Athletic camps are offered in over 11 sports and are staffed by GPS coaches and athletes.

Hickory Valley Christian School Summer Camp

6605 Shallowford Road

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-894-3200

info@hvcs.org

www.hvcs.org

Knoxville Computer and Film Camp

First Cumberland Presbyterian Church

Knoxville TN, 37919 United States

865-692-8385

Arnstein Jewish Community Center

Knoxville Jewish Alliance Summer Camps

www.jewishknoxville.org

McCallie School Summer Camps

McCallie School

500 Dodds Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-493-5426

wce@mccallie.org

www.summer.mccallie.org

The Montessori School

Montessori Day Camp and Schools Out Special

Educational and specialty camp

300 Montessori Way

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-622-6366

TheMontessoriSchool.net

Notre Dame Summer Camp

2701 Vermont Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37404

ACT/SAT Prep, Dance, Drama, Sports, Microsoft IT Academy Camp, Cooking, Art, Spiritual enrichment

423-624-4618

summercamp@myndhs.com

www.myndhs.com

OLPH Summer Camps & Programs

505 South Moore Road

Chattanooga, TN 37412

622-1481

ksumrell@catholicweb.com

www.olph.us

Philanthropy Camp

One-week day camp providing elementary-age

children with opportunities to give back to their community and to understand the

positive differences they can make in this world. Through hands-on-activities,

games, field trips, speakers, and much more, campers will explore the concepts of

philanthropy, faith, family and community. Philanthropy camp is a joint program of

the First Church of the Nazarene and the Jewish Federation of Greater

Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga

5461 North Terrace Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411

Phone: (423) 493-0270

www.jewishchattanooga.com

Primrose Schools of East Brainerd and Hixson K–5th day camp

CITA/CASI accredited

1619 Gunbarrel Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-499-5584

1985 Northpoint Blvd.

Hixson, TN 37343

423-870-4840

MyPrimroseSchool.com

Scenic Land School

Day camp

1200 Mountain Creek Rd., Ste. 300

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-877-9711

ScenicLandSchool.org

St. Andrews

Campo Coneccion de Puntos

Education camp for Spanish-speaking children

1918 Union Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-432-8230

St. Jude School Summer Camp

930 Ashland Terrace

Chattanooga, TN 37415

423-877-6022

ketherton@stjudechattanooga.org

www.stjudechattanooga.org

St. Nicholas School Summer Camp

7525 Min Tom Drive

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-894-6485

kleckendy@stns.org

www.stns.org

Stellar Therapy Services

Occupational Therapy & Speech Therapy

Handwriting, Socialization, Speech, Sensory, Fine Motor and Reading

6172 Airways Blvd, Suite 131

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-622-1551

www.stellartherapy.com

Sylvan Learning Center of Chattanooga

4295 Cromwell Road, Suite 309

Two-week camps are offered for students K-12 to provide supplemental and enrichment skill development in reading, writing and math.  Instruction is available year round for other programs.

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-894-8333

sylvanchattanooga@yahoo.com

www.sylvanchattanooga.com

La Petite Academy Summer Camp

Knoxville, TN 37931

1-877-861-5078

www.lapetite.com

Sacred Heart
Cathedral School
711 Northshore Drive
Knoxville, TN 37919
Phone: 865.588.0415

www.shcschool.org

St. Andrews–Sewanee School

SAS Summer arts and sports camps

290 Quintard Rd.

Sewanee, TN 37375

931-598-5651

SASWeb.org/SASSummer

Tate’s Day Camp

1031 North Cedar Bluff Road

Knoxville, TN 37923

865-690-9208

www.tatescamp.com

Tennessee Aquarium Keeper’s Kids Spring Break & Summer Camps

800-262-0695

www.tnaqua.org

West Side YMCA Summer Day Camp

400 North Winston Road, Knoxville, TN 37909
(865) 690-9622

www.ymcaknoxville.org

Visit www.chattzoo.com for information about the camps at the Chattanooga Zoo

Build a stronger, smarter and healthier child with summer programs.

by CP

A generation ago 75% of children spent daily time playing freely in the outdoors.  Reports from the National Wildlife Federation indicate that today only 25% of American children play outside on a regular basis.  An alarming number of children spend up to 7 hours each day using electronic media.

Childhood obesity rates have more than doubled.  The U.S. has become the largest consumer of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medications in the world and the pediatric use of antidepressants continues to rise.  Exposure to natural settings may “widely effective” in reducing ADHD symptoms in children, according to researchers at the University of Illinois.

Spending time outside is good for children.  Jaime Matyas, the Executive Vice President of the National Wildlife Federation, says “Some say it takes a village to raise a child.  NWF says it takes a backyard, a playground, a park.”

Children who spend time reap rewards that impact socialization, learning and their future.  Summer Camp programs that emphasize nature, the outdoors and athletics teach children more than just facts, they instill healthy habits and attitudes that can shape their lives.

The National Wildlife Federation shares the following research:

1. Children who spend time outdoors as kids are more likely to care about wild things and wild places as adults.
2. Sunshine helps kids’ bodies create Vitamin D, essential to building strong bones and preventing disease.
3. In today’s over-scheduled world, kids need more R&R.  Research shows stress levels fall within minutes of being outside.
4. When kids play outdoors they tend to foster compassion and improve social bonds.  Free play in nature encourages positive social interactions and strengthen bonds with peers.
5. Overweight and obese children may have shorter life spans.  Their risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, joint problems and fatty liver disease can shorten life spans.  Exposing them to outdoor activities can help them maintain a healthy weight.
6. Kids who spend time outdoors learn teamwork and problem-solving skills.  They also score higher on cognitive and standardized tests.

Outdoor, Nature & Adventure Camps

Bachman Academy K–8 Camp

Academic a.m./adventure p.m.

414 Brymer Creek Rd.

McDonald, TN 37353

423-479-4523 or 423-472-2718

BachmanAcademy.org

Baylor School

Raider Days and All Sports camps

171 Baylor School Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-757-2616

BaylorSchool.org

Baylor’s amazing campus is the perfect place for safe and nurturing summer fun. This year’s theme-based sessions feature many new activities to match the special interests of our many campers. Age groups include Junior Raiders, ages 5–6; Red Raiders, ages 7–9; and Adventure Raiders, ages 10–12. Baylor’s “All Sports” camps give kids ages 7–13 the chance to participate in a wide variety of sports. Sessions are June 15–19; June 22–26; July 6–10; July 13–17; July 20–24. Easy online registration makes it convenient to sign up for a summer’s worth of fun.

Boyd-Buchanan School Summer Camps

Athletic and academic enrichment camps

Half day or all day

4626 Bonnieway Dr.

Chattanooga, TN 37411

423-629-7610 or 423-508-2218

BBSchool.org

Camp Big Fish

Abba’s House

423-400-1504

www.campbigfish.org

Camp Big Fish is a 10 week Christian Summer Day Camp that focuses on kids having a fun and exciting summer.  Our camp includes sports, swimming, guest speakers, art, music, bible and devotion time, and clubs (slip and slide, cooking, golf, computers, foosball, dance, soccer, water balloons, gymnastics, etc).

Camp Hidden Hollow

Christian, nature-oriented day camp

385 Hidden Hollow Ln.

Chickamauga, GA 30707

706-539-1129

Camp Vesper Point

Office Address: 554 McCallie Ave

Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 648-7936

info@vesperpoint.org

Camp Vesper Point is located on Lake Chickamauga near Chattanooga, Vesper Point has provided over 55 years of Christian camping for children and families. At CVP, Jesus Christ is presented to kids through fun outdoor activities, high-energy adventure, sports, worship and a loving relationship with a Christ-centered counselor.  We offer waterfront activities, beautiful facilities, competitive prices and convenient sessions for ages 7-16. Owned and operated by First Presbyterian of Chattanooga. Weekly camp sessions during June and July.

Visit our website at www.VesperPoint.org! Or email us at cvp@1stpresbyterian.com

Champions Club

Tennis camp

423-870-3112

Lourenco_O@mail.Chattanooga.gov

Chattanooga Arboretum & Nature Center

400 Garden Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37419

423-821-1160

ChattanoogaNatureCenter.org

Chattanooga Basketball Camp for Boys

Baylor School campus

P.O. Box 4043

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-425-4592

Cheri-Thomas@UTC.edu

For brochure and application call 1-877-254-0028.

Chattanooga Christian School

Athletic camps

423-664-1238

GHenegar@CCSK12.com

Chattanooga Little Gym

7540 E Brainerd Rd # 102

Chattanooga, TN 37421-3181

1. 296-9001

www.thelittlegym.com

Does your child like the beach, wish they were a pirate or on safari? Our Anytime, Summertime Camps offer days full of fun and activities. The specially developed camp curriculum combines physical fitness and play with arts, crafts and snacks. Each week is designed around unique themes such as “Sports Spectacular”, “Cheerleading”, and “Coastal Cowabunga” . It’s the perfect break for kids (and parents!), during the hot summer weeks. You can choose between 2 day or 4 day camps as well as which of the 12 camp weeks fit your summer schedule. Camps fill quickly, so call (423) 296-9001 today.

Chattanooga Rowing

Introduction to Rowing

Coed, ages 13–18

William G. Raoul Boathouse

1001 Riverside Dr.

Chattanooga, TN 37406

423-267-7059

ChattanoogaJuniorRowing.org; RowCJR.org

Chattanooga Zoo

Zoo Summer Camp

1101 McCallie Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-643-5780

www.chattzoo.org

Clean Water Camp for kids

TenneSEA,  North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy & South Chickamauga Creek Greenway Alliance

Leah Crisp, Program Coordinator

Hamilton County Water Quality Program

ph. 423-209-7851

hotline 423-209-7888

Eagle’s Rest Ranch

Therapeutic Riding

Tiftonia, Georgia

423-421-3205

ginger@eaglesrestranch.

www.eaglesrestranch.com

First Tee of Chattanooga

P.O. Box 80153

Chattanooga, TN 37414

423-855-8535

TheFirstTeeChattanooga.org

Gym, Swim, and More Summer Camp!

Gymnastics Center of Chattanooga and Ooltewah Swim Center

Week-long Fun & Fitness Day Camps

6855 Mountain View Road, Ooltewah, TN 37363

Phone: 423-238-5258 Fax: 423-238-5005

Web Address: www.gymcc.com

Green’s Karate Traditional Karate Camp

Martial arts

423-432-5280

GreensKarate.com

Gymnastics Center of Chattanooga and Ooltewah Swim Center

Gym, Swim and More Summer Camp

6855 Mountain View Rd.

Ooltewah, TN 37363

423-238-5258 or 423-238-5005

Girls Incorporated of Chattanooga

Summer Camps and Academies

Girls only

709 Greenwood Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-624-4757

GirlsIncOfChatt.org

Girls Preparatory School

GPS Summer Programs

Athletic/academic/enrichment

205 Island Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-634-3457

GPS.edu/Camps

Hamilton Heights Christian Academy

Athletic camps

423-894-0597

DukeStone@HamiltonHeights.net

Kids Camp

City of Chattanooga

Parks and Recreation

Summer outdoor and art camps

All 14 city recreation centers

423-643-6052

Kyzer’s Soccer Center

Soccer camp

UTC campus

423-425-2102

GoMocs.com

The Little Gym of Chattanooga

Summertime Camps

7540 E. Brainerd Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-296-9001

TLGChattanoogaTN.com

Does your child like the beach, wish they were a pirate or on safari? Our Anytime, Summertime Camps offer days full of fun and activities. The specially developed camp curriculum combines physical fitness and play with arts, crafts and snacks. Each week is designed around unique themes such as “Sports Spectacular”, “Cheerleading”, and “Coastal Cowabunga” . It’s the perfect break for kids (and parents!), during the hot summer weeks. You can choose between 2 day or 4 day camps as well as which of the 11 camp weeks fit your summer schedule. Camps fill quickly, so call (423) 296-9001 today.

McCallie Summer Programs

General camps, ahletic camps, special camps

Day & sleepaway, some coed

500 Dodds Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-493-5852 or 493-5426

McCallie.org

McCallie offers a variety of summer camps for ages 5 and up. Athletic camps in baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and wrestling directed by McCallie’s head coach in each sport. Limited spots available in fly fishing, sailing and golf camps. McCallie Day Camp for rising 2nd–5th graders and McCallie First Camp for 5- & 6-year-olds are very popular. Also offered are Art Camp, Debate/Mock Trial/Model UN Camp, Sandlot Kids Camp, and Swim Lessons for all ages. All camps emphasize sportsmanship, cooperation, and participation…and having fun! Register online at McCallie.org or phone 493-5886 for a brochure or more information.

National Horse Camp 2011

1050 Ray Hixson Rd.

Dunlap, TN 37327

(423)554-4677  Summer

www.tnhorsevacation.com

Notre Dame High School

Discover the Spirit!

Sports/fine arts/ academic/spiritual enrichment

2701 Vermont Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-624-4618

MyNDHS.com

Summer 2011 = FUN at Notre Dame where the focus is athletic skill development, fine arts instruction, academic enrichment and spiritual enrichment. Our sports camps offer the opportunity to develop skills or to try a new sport or activity. Our top student athletes assist with the camps and help inspire campers to be the best they can be on and off the field. The Outdoor/Adventure camp promotes lifetime involvement and fitness through outdoor activities such as cycling, climbing, hiking and white water rafting.

Web Design, Dance, and Cooking camps offer each participant a unique and fun learning experience. Visit our website, MyNDHS.com, to download a registration form, or call 423-624-4618, ext. 1611 for more information.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School

Summer Fun @ OLPH

Drama, art, music, sports, enrichment, nature, cheerleading, creative movement & after-camp care

505 S. Moore Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37412

423-622-1481

MyOLPH.com

Outdoor Chattanooga

Overnight Expedition Camps

Appalachian Adventure Camp

Tennessee River Gorge Adventure Camp

423-643-6888

www.outdoorchattanooga.com

Peavine Creek Horse Camp

Horseback riding camp

Day and sleepaway camps

P.O. Box 5631

Ft. Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-937-5359

Saddlebred-Horses.com

Picture Perfect Swing

Sports camp

2655 Sydney St.

Chattanooga, TN 37408

423-321-3999

PicturePerfectSwing.com

Rick Hall’s Tae Kwon Do Plus

Summer Karate Camp

5145 Hixson Pike

Hixson, TN 37343

423-877-3451

Sports Barn

Spirit Camps

1790 Hamill Rd.

Hixson, TN 37343

423-877-5433

SpiritBarnCheer.com

St. Nicholas Summer Camp

Day camp for 4- to 12-year-olds

7525 Mintom Dr.

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-894-6485 or 423-899-0109

StNS.org

KLeckenby@StNS.org

Tennessee Academy of Gymnastics

TAG Fun Camp

Gymnastic instruction, arts and crafts

2501 Riverside Dr.

Chattanooga, TN 37406

423-824-1924

TAGGym.com

Tennessee Aquarium

Keeper Kids Camp

One Broad Street

Chattanooga, TN 37402

800-262-0695

Spring Break turns into a wild adventure at the Tennessee Aquarium when kids get a chance to get closer to some of the Aquarium’s most amazing animals.  Keeper Kids are free with Aquarium admission, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

University of Tennessee, Chattanooga

Youth University Summer Enrichment Program

UTC campus

423-425-4344

Ginny-Reese@UTC.edu

University of Tennessee, Chattanooga

UTC Softball Skills Camp for Girls

ACA accredited

Warner Park

423-425-2107

UTC Lady Mocs Basketball Camp

Girls only

UTC campus

423-425-4456

UTC Volleyball Camp

Girls only

423-425-2227

GoMocs.com

Urban Rocks

www.urbanrocksgym.com

Summer 2012 Dates:

1007 Appling Street

423-475-6578

By Kyle Waggener

Kyle is the Director of Education at the Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center. He and his wife April celebrate their family outdoors as often as they can while he teaches the community how to do that in their own families.

My wife and I have always loved the outdoors, often going hiking, camping, backpacking or birding.   When our daughter was born, I wondered what impact this new addition would have on our outdoor pursuits.  We read many books about child rearing in the months leading up to Rhiannon’s birth.   All of the authors encouraged new parents to go about their lives, business as usual, and take your child along.  So that’s what we did.

We wanted to foster a love for the natural world in our daughter.  Recent studies have shown that the two most important factors are positive, direct experiences in nature and being taken outdoors by an adult close to the child.  Unstructured free play time outdoors comes with many other benefits for children.

Research shows that children who play in nature experience cognitive benefits including creativity, problem-solving skills, increased focus, and self-discipline.  The social benefits of outdoor play include better cooperation, flexibility, and self-awareness.  The emotional benefits include stress reduction, reduced aggression, and increased happiness.  Outdoor experiences kept us pursuing our hobbies and the experts said that it was good for our daughter’s well-being.

From an early age Rhiannon went along on hiking and camping trips with us.  We had a baby carrier backpack and she often fell asleep to the motion of the backpack as we hiked.  The few moments that she was awake, I would notice the fascinated look in her eyes as she looked up to the trees along the path.

One of the keys to fostering a love for nature is unstructured play time in nature.  This comes naturally for children and Rhiannon has never had a problem finding something to play with in nature.  This seems odd to me because she has a lot of toys at home but often complains of being bored.  Not so when we’re outside.  When we go camping and sit around the campfire Rhiannon loves to play restaurant.  She gets a stick and a piece of bark and takes our meal and drink orders.  Then she’ll go behind a log and pretend to cook our meal.  She brings us rocks, acorns and other natural objects on a big leaf that serves as the plate.

Somehow her imaginary restaurant always seems to be out of what I’ve ordered and she gives me something else and tells me to eat it anyway.  But I’m a good customer and never complain.  When she joins me on bird walks that I lead Rhiannon disappears into the tall grass, only her hat visible, pretending to be a Serengeti lion sneaking up on her prey.

I feel like our efforts have paid off.  When Rhiannon was four, we went on an overnight backpacking trip to Savage Gulf. We had just packed up to hike back to the car after breakfast in a beautiful campsite overlooking Big Creek Gulf and Rhiannon and I were hiking along the trail holding hands.  About 10 minutes down the trail she started crying.  I thought that it was way too soon for her to be tired from hiking so I stopped and asked her what was wrong.  Through her sobs she said “I don’t want to leave.”

Music, choral and dance camps can energize your summer.

by CP & Nicole Knauss

Choir was an uplifting experience for all of these students, their musical development just a part of the lessons they learned. Photo 1 credit: Photo courtesy Chattanooga Girls Choir

It is easy to understand that the activities children and teens are involved in shape their lives and choosing the programs that will most significantly impact their overall development is daunting. Since there is a national focus on the importance of children leading a healthy and active life, there is an emphasis on sports and outdoor activities in today’s curriculum plans.

What is publicized less in our society is how programs like choir, dance programs, music camps or theatre can be educational while also promoting physical health.  Families should consider summer programs that focus on both the mind and the body.

In the past decade there have been many studies, research and articles dedicated to the impact of music education on children. The research agrees that music education, especially during the developmental years, nurtures a life long appreciation of music and helps develop self-esteem, teamwork, community building, cultural understanding and overall enhancement of academic skills in general.

Studies across the globe are now proving a connection between singing in a group setting, enhanced health and positive emotional benefits. Researchers in Germany and California are making connections between performing and an increase in a singer’s level of immunity building proteins. In the UK’s Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health, there was a report about improved lung capacity, high energy, relieved asthma, better posture, and enhanced feelings of relaxation, mood, and confidence in singers.

Even with proven benefits, music education as part of the school curricula has been on the decline. Faced with strict core class goals and budget cuts, more and more schools are scaling back or eliminating music programs from elementary and middle school curriculum.

As cuts like this take place, the importance of educational activities outside of school programming is increasing. A well-organized program allows students to be actively and creatively engaged in learning in a group setting. The activities not only increase knowledge and understanding of the subject, they also promote an appreciation of the art form and build community within its participants. Summer arts programs are time well-spent for participants

Music & Dance Camp Listings

Ballet Tennessee and VanCura Ballet Conservatory

Summer dance camps

3202 Kelly’s Ferry Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37419

423-821-2055

BalletTennessee.org

June Dance Camps, June Evening Classes, June and July Summer Intensives: The world of dance opens up to all when you enroll at VanCura Ballet Conservatory or Ballet Tennessee Summer Dance Sampler at MACC. Discover creative movement through music,stories and games. Aspiring ballerinas and premier danseurs will learn in beautifully crafted

ballet classes. Explore modern dance, improvisations and how to make your own dances. Learn

choreography from the esteemed Ballet Tennessee faculty. Meet guest artists and be inspired!

Enrollment is open until classes and intensives are full. The intensives require an audition, call and ask for Mrs. VanCura to set up an audition. For registration information:

www.BalletTennessee.org or call (423) 821-2055.

Barking Legs Theatre

Brain Dance & Circus camp

1307 Dodds Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-624-5347

BarkingLegs.org

Cadek Conservatory of Music

Suzuki Strings and Piano Summer Camp

Cadek Hall, UTC

725 Oak St.

Chattanooga, TN 37403

423-425-4624

UTC.edu/Outreach/CadekConservatory

Chattanooga Boys Choir

423-634-2299

www.chattanoogaboyschoir.org

Chattanooga Folk School

Summer camp programs with instruction in a variety of musical instruments.

250 Forest Avenue

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-827-8906

www.chattanoogafolk.com

Creating A Musical Summer Workshop

Chattanooga Girls Choir and the Chattanooga Theatre Centre

Gender: Boys and Girls

400 River Street

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-296-1006

www.chattanoogagirlschoir.com

Ages: 9 to 12 years old

Time: 9am – 4pm

Cost: $350 for 2 week camp

Chattanooga Theatre Centre Summer Academy

400 River Street

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-267-8534

Summer Academy 2012

Registration @ www.TheatreCentre.com

Hamilton Academy of Dance

Classical Ballet, Tap Dance, Jazz Dance, Modern & Ballroom

Boy’s exercise & Tap,

8509A Hixson Pike

Chattanooga, TN 37343

423-598-8786

www.hamiltonballet.com

Kindermusik at First Baptist Church of Fine Arts

Adventures Camp

401 Gateway Ave.

Chattanooga, TN 37402

423-265-2601

FBCChattanooga.org

La Petite Academy Summer Camp

Knoxville, TN 37931

1-877-861-5078

www.lapetite.com

Mountain Arts Community Center

Summer Fun Camps of MACC

Theater, art, music, ballet

809 Kentucky Ave.

Signal Mountain, TN 37377

423-886-1959

The American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that one in 10 schoolchildren are affected by a learning disorder like dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Asberger’s Syndrome, one of the autism spectrum disorders.  Resources for children with special needs are a crucial component of the educational mix both in school settings and as a part of the summer experience.

When a program is tailored to children with special needs, children receive added support, structure, and a higher staff to participant ratio. In our programs, we use what we call "failure-free" activities.

There are quality summer programs for children with special needs that include fun physical activity, cognitive programming and which address the issues particular to autism spectrum disorders.  Eagles Rest Ranch, a wonderful local opportunity, uses the SpiritHorse curriculum developed by Charles Fletcher, providing services for individuals with mental and physical developmental disabilities, spinal cord and brain injuries, social disorders or youth at risk, as well as support for their families.

“Summer camp programs are a great boost to confidence for children with special needs. When a program is tailored to children with special needs, children receive added support, structure, and a higher staff to participant ratio. In our programs, we use what we call “failure-free” activities. These activities are designed to be adaptable to different skill levels so that each child can enjoy success, while experiencing a “just-right” challenge that boosts their confidence and self-esteem. When children experience success, they are more willing to take risks, which in turn leads to greater learning opportunities.”

Melissa Christopher, OT, Stellar Therapy

Bachman Academy

Horse Camp at Bachman Academy

BASEcamp at Bachman Academy

414 Brymer Creek Road

McDonald, TN 37353

866-397-2267 (CAMP)

423-479-4523

horsecamp@bachmanacademy.org

BASEcamp@bachmanacaemy.org

Camp Zooability

City of Chattanooga

Chattanooga Zoo

423-697-1345

Elaine Adams – adams_e@chattanooga.gov

Chattanooga Therapeutic Riding Center

Riding camp for children with disabilities

8395 Morin Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-899-9407

NARHA.org

Creative Discovery Museum

Friends Discover Camp

Half-day inclusive camp designed for children with autism

321 Chestnut St.

Chattanooga, TN 37402

423-648-6040 or 423-267-9344

CDMFun.org

All kids love Friends’ Discovery Camp! Designed to address the social and recreational needs of children with autism through a unique partnership with Creative Discovery Museum, UTC, Siskin Children’s Institute and T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital, a child with autism is paired with a child without autism. Kids aged 5–7 and 8–11 get the chance to have wild and wacky camp fun, develop socially and expand their horizons. All of this happens in the company of BIG Buddies, UTC students trained to address the specific needs of all children in this camp. Campers receive a free Museum membership.

Eagles Rest Ranch

ERR has SpiritHorse Certified Equine-Assisted Healthcare Instructors and is a licensed 501(c)3 non-profit SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding facility.

www.eaglesrestranchriding.webs.com

Ginger Brown

SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding

Eagles Rest Ranch

423-421-3205

ginger@eaglesrestranch.com

East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Rehabilitation Center

1025 Children’s Way

Knoxville, TN 37922

865-690-8961

www.etch.com

awoodle@etch.com

Epilepsy Foundation of SE Tennessee

One Siskin Plaza

Chattanooga, TN 37403

866-570-1789

www.epilepsy-setn.org

info@epilepsy-setn.org

Fit One of Ooltewah

Camp Awesome

Special needs day camp

6857 Mountain View Rd.

Ooltewah, TN 37363

423-238-5999

FitOneGym.com

Little TN Valley Educational Cooperative

Birth to Three

Pam Potocik

422 Ellis Avenue

Maryville, TN 37804

800-481-9891

www.ltvec.org

littletnvalley@bellsouth.net

MDA Summer Camp

Muscular Dystrophy Association

Courtney Crawford

6408 Papermill Drive, Suite 230

Knoxville, TN 37919

865-588-1632

ccrawford@mdausa.org

www.mda.org

MDA Chattanooga

Courtney Crawford

2115 Chapman Road, Suite 163

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-855-0645

www.mdausa.org

Mystery Dog Ranch

Hozho Therapeutic Equestrian Services

Mystery Dog Ranch

975 Wooten Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-5559 (Office)

423-991-4103 (Cell)

Open Doors Tennessee

Steve Johnson

PO Box 58

Powell, TN 37849

865-437-77666

www.opendoorstn.com

Rivers Way Outdoor Adventure Camp

Tom Hanlon

889 Stoney Hollow Road

Bluff City, TN 37618

423-538-0405

www.riversway.org

Scenic Land School

Aleta Kinsey

1200 Mountain Creek Road, Suite 300

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-876-0398

akinsey@sceniclandschool.org

www.sceniclandschool.org

Siskin Early Learning Center

Sarah Briggs

1602 Gunbarrel Road

Chattanooga, TN 37421

423-643-4059

siskin.eastbrainerd@siskin.org

The Speech and Hearing Center

Pre-Reading, Sounds to Read Club

600 N. Holtzclaw Ave., Ste. 200

Chattanooga, TN 37404

423-622-6900

SpeechHearing.com

The Speech Language Reading Center

Speech/language camps

1200 Mountain Creek Rd., Ste. 380

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423-877-5042

SLRCenter.net

Stellar Therapy Services

Specializing in language impairments, sensory integration, fine motor development, early literacy, autism, attention deficit disorder, handwriting, and other developmental issues.

6172 Airways Blvd, Suite 122

Chattanooga, TN 37414

423-622-1551 phone

www.stellartherapy.com

Tennessee Camp for Diabetic Children

Overnight diabetic camp

2622 Lee Pk.

Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379

423-843-5006

TNCDC.org

by Lu Lewis and Edna Varner

You don’t have to live in Alice’s wonderland to make a world of wonder and creativity for your child.

Everybody has a list — losing weight, gaining confidence, improving relationships, or saving money at the supermarket. We recently discussed a US News and World Report article, “50 Ways to Improve Your Life.”  The tips were worth the price of the magazine; now you can Google the article and get the tips free.

You can Google “50 Ways…,” and find suggestions for everything imaginable: “50 Ways to Help the Planet”; “50 Ways to Use Bacon”; “50 Fun Things to Do with your iPod”; “50 Ways to Beat the Reaper”; and the lyrics to Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.”

We wondered why so many of us are still hoping to find something we don’t already know. A better question may be, “Why haven’t we improved our lives by doing the 50 things we do know? Perhaps the answer lies in lines from a familiar tale, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland:

Alice:   And how many hours a day did you do lessons?

The Mock Turtle:   Ten hours the first day, nine the next, and so on.

Alice:   What a curious plan!

The Gryphon:    That’s the reason they’re called lessons, because they lessen from day to day.

We decided to try looking at things from the other side of the looking glass where each day “the lessons lessen.”  Here are two to think about this month.

Lu’s lessons for helping children enjoy childhood:

You don’t have to live in Alice’s wonderland to make a world of wonder and creativity for your child. With so many rules and routines it’s no surprise some children are stressed before they finish kindergarten. Take some family breaks from the day-to-day and give your children the gift of serendipity.

Lesson #1: No Directions

Allow your child to create something from everyday objects—no directions, no plans, no right answers. Spend the afternoon in the yard, collecting whatever strikes their fancy. Bring in the treasures, put them on a table with safe scissors, glue and crayons, and let them create. On a rainy day, the stuff of invention can be paper clips, buttons, pieces of yarn, or the “thing-a-magig” you keep in a drawer, even though no one quite remembers what it is.

Lesson #2: Something Silly

Alice in Wonderland is full of nonsense, yet it is still read, performed, studied and enjoyed by old and young alike. Some parts are downright silly, but silly is good. Give your child the gift of silly. Books that make children laugh uncontrollably are the best; the reduced stress, the physical activity from rolling hysterically on the floor, and the loss of interest in television are all bonuses. There are lots of great children’s books with nonsense stories and rhymes. Start with Today I Feel Silly: And Other Moods That Make My Day by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell.

The two of us have long embraced change, but we think it may be better in smaller doses, so we are taking the wisdom of the Mock Turtle and the Gryphon to heart.  If you find that 50 ways to do anything is a bit ambitious, feel free to join us here on the other side of the looking glass.

by Alison Lebovitz

Hello, my name is Alison, and I am a pile-oholic. It has been twenty-one days since my last pile and I truly believe that I am finally on a path towards a clutter-free life.

Hello, my name is Alison, and I am a pile-oholic. It has been twenty-one days since my last pile and I truly believe that I am finally on a path towards a clutter-free life.

When I was twenty-four and living in Chicago, my best friend took me to her grandparents’ house for dinner one night. When I asked her grandfather what he did for a living he replied, “Well, the Mrs. and I are both pilots.” A little shocked and very impressed I replied, “Really? You are both pilots. That’s amazing!” He laughed and said, “Oh yes, just look around our house. We pile it here, we pile it there, we pile it everywhere.” At the time I was single, living in a 610-square-foot studio apartment and didn’t have the need, much less the luxury, to pile anything anywhere, except for my clothes on the floor of my closet. I never imagined that someday I would become a pilot too.

As a mother of three, I have to keep up with the countless papers, bills, magazines, invitations, solicitations and junk mail that are the necessary evils of my daily life, while simultaneously contending with the many notes, worksheets, artwork, notices and other surprises that come home in our kids’ backpacks on a daily basis. And no matter what I do, it all ends up in piles on our kitchen counter. Sometimes the piles are strategically organized according to owner. Sometimes I try to stack them according to theme – school piles, work piles, personal piles, no idea what to do with them piles. But these tactics only prove futile and frustrating. So I usually end up consolidating everything into one huge pile and arranging the documents in order of priority, with the more time sensitive papers on top. And while this minimizes the number of piles it also yields a tower so tall that it threatens to topple at the slightest touch.

Unfortunately, the kitchen counter is merely the first stop along a series of piles carefully constructed and strategically placed around our house. It is essentially the initial port of entry to a sea of endless sorting and piling that ultimately leads to either a final resting place or, more likely, the recycling bin.

But three weeks ago I had a cluttervention. While having dinner with a group of women, I started confessing my sins as a proven pile-oholic and then asked my friend Lisa if she happened to suffer from the same syndrome. Not wanting to hurt my feelings, she reluctantly admitted that she was actually pretty tidy and that her house was essentially clutter-free. “You have zero clutter? No piles? No stacks? How do you do it?” I begged. I had to know her secret and somehow learn from her example. She told me, “It’s all because of my mother’s one-touch rule.” She went on to explain that her mom had always required them to find a place for everything in their house on the first touch, and Lisa has since carried on that tradition. For instance, when she wakes up in the morning and pulls the sheets down, she then gets out of bed and, still holding onto the sheet, proceeds to make the bed. One touch. When she gets the mail she promptly sorts it, putting the trash in the recycling bin, the bills in a special basket and all other materials where they need to be without waiting until later. One touch. And even when she does laundry the clothes go from the dryer to folded stacks that are instantly put into drawers. Once again, one touch.

This sounded so simple and yet completely revolutionary. Our boys have always followed a strict “one-touch” rule as well, but theirs entails grabbing clothes out of their drawers and throwing them onto the floor if they don’t feel like wearing them that day. Not quite the same “one touch” she was suggesting. That night I came home and immediately sorted through every pile in ever corner of my house. I decided that my house would start to mirror my cutlery drawer and I would find a consistent, neatly organized and appropriate place for everything in it. By midnight I could finally see things I hadn’t been able to view in years – including my kitchen counter, the laundry room shelf and even the desk in my office, which apparently is made of glass and not copy paper. Instead of a twelve-step program, I have been following the one-touch rule ever since.

My husband came home from work a few days ago and joked, “I am really sick of not seeing any more piles around here.” Luckily he hasn’t seen my closet.

by Jennifer Crutchfield

Secrets and spies are a staple of war, ferreting out facts and cloaking figures in disinformation.   As America entered the war between brothers an official spy network was not in place.  During the first few years of conflict espionage efforts were characterized by dramatic figures with little organized systems for using the information they gleaned from their enemy prey.  As the war progressed both the Union and Confederate armies developed ways to collect, transmit and use information collected from across the land.

President Lincoln had his own spy who traveled behind enemy lines, collecting answers to the President’s questions and reporting personally or with notes that his family delivered to the nation’s Chief.  Abraham Lincoln established the War Department Telegraph Office where he could actively engage in battles by communicating with Generals and their signal corpsmen.  They used a precursor to the code we recognize as dots and dashes.  American Morse was a complex multi-element code that was often transmitted by cipher-operators working in wagons at battlefronts and de-ciphered under the watchful eye of the President.

President Davis also employed a spy, an educated former slave who served in the Confederate White House as a favor to her former master, a Southern woman who believed fiercely in freedom.  Elizabeth Van Lew used her family’s fortune to comfort Union prisoners of war and to maintain a spy network that kept Union leaders well informed and sometimes even supplied them with produce and flowers from her farms and gardens.

More than 16,000 miles of telegraph lines were strung by both armies and signal corps linemen became valuable assets for their skills at retrieving information their leaders can exploit and at providing disinformation to enemy commands.  Telegraphers were often attached to cavalry commands, leading the way into occupied territory and tapping into lines along the way.  These early spies used de-ciphered code to switch military traffic to wrong destinations, transmit false orders to enemy commanders and to exploit the information they learned.

Cipher disks, small telegraph keys, wires and courage were the supplies for signalmen who went behind enemy lines.

Confederate soldiers scoured the countryside in May of 1863 as they searched for Union spies between Knoxville and Chattanooga.  Confederate General Joseph E. Johnson was under siege in Vicksburg and Union Major General William S. Rosecrans wanted to know if General Bragg was going to send troops to his aid.  Morning dew on the telegraph line sparked a warning to the Confederate General and launched a search for the Union spies.

Frank VanValkenburgh, who has descendants living in Chattanooga, was sent to the region with Pat Mullarkey with instructions and supplies from General Rosecrans.  Armed with pulley blocks, telegraph line and pocket telegraph keys these secret soldiers spent 33 days behind enemy lines.   They obtain the needed information and spread disinformation, middle Tennessee being reclaimed for the Union in the wake of the coming battles.

Flags, mountain heights and flares were the tools of Wig Wag Signal Corps soldiers.

Whether they were using flares and flags from mountaintop heights, sending signals on tapped lines or listening to generals as they served their meals spies played an important role in the Civil War.  Their personalities made some figures of lore and legend while others quietly heralded advances in technology and communications.