March 2024
MARCH 2024 nola family Parent Fearlessly
Exploring Careers At Camp
Tales From The Trails
Camping With Confidence
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@nolafamily.com
AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher Editorial AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor AUSTRIA COHN VICTORIA MIKOTA MADISON VOORHIES Senior Graphic Designer MADISON GRAHAM Graphic Designer Advertising/Marketing CRYSTAL BARRETT CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN LAUREN LAUGHLIN MARTINE MELANCON SHANNON VICARI RYN WHITESIDE Account Executives Community Development TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach Administration BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Editors Art/Production ALEX HERRING Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator SARAH MILLER Client Relations Coordinator BRITTANY DUPLESSIS Accounting Coordinator Contact Us: editorial@ familyresourcegroupinc.com Office: 3925 N. I-10 Service Road W Suite 131 Metairie, LA 70001 (504) 866-0555 A publication of
A LITTLE PIECE OF HEAVEN By Amy L. Foreman Experience unparalled luxury and relaxation at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya—an all-inclusive resort like no other and the perfect destination for your next getaway. ELMO IS STILL OUR FRIEND By Madison Voorhies Discover how Elmo sparked a global conversation on mental health after a surprising tweet, leading to an outpouring of honesty from millions, and find valuable local and national resources to support those struggling.
IS DAYLIGHT SAVING STILL A THING? By Austria Cohn Delve into the timeless debate over Daylight Savings Time with this comprehensive exploration, and learn about the potential health and economic impacts of changing the clocks twice a year. MEETING THE EASTER BUNNY: SCARIER THAN SANTA CLAUS? By Madison Voorhies Explores the origins of this fluffy tradition and question the necessity of Easter Bunny photoshoots in this thought- provoking article.
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March 2024 Issue 150
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nola family CONTENTS MARCH 2024
22
FEATURES
24 25 2024
2024 Camp Showcase 18 20
22
The Transformative Power of Sleepaway Camp
Camp to Career: Preparing Children for Success
How Do I Still Love Backpacking?
Camps Listing
IN EACH ISSUE
Spotlight Snapshots 8 1012 142732 34
From the Publisher
From the Bookshelf
Mom About Town
Out & About
Things We Love
NOLA FAMILY is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited. Photos by Freepik.com. This publication has been designed using some assets from Freepik.com
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from the publisher
Spring, Sinuses, and Summer
D id you know that Punxsutawney Phil is only accurate 39 percent of the time? I was looking forward to having spring weather arrive sooner than later until I just happened to search up this bit of information. So, I guess we will see in a few weeks if his accuracy goes up or down! Whether you believe in these traditions or silly superstitions or not, I do enjoy my children guessing. With spring on the horizon, that just means everything is in bloom and sinuses will be flaring. So here is a reminder to start those nose sprays and daily antihistamines to hopefully stay ahead of those sinus infections. Or if you are like me, just avoid the outdoors. As much as I love spring weather, it doesn’t love me back. By the time I am able to enjoy the outdoors, it is already summer, and it’s so hot. With spring now here, it is time to start planning for summer. Vacations, camps, and who’s watching the kids when they are not in camp are the main topics for March and April. If
you plan on getting a summer sitter, you better secure them now–especially with college students, as they are making plans to go home, or looking for summer work to stay put. Also, camp registrations are open and will fill up quickly, so don’t procrastinate. Finally, start planning your summer vacation! This is my favorite thing to do. I recently went to an all-inclusive resort with my husband, and I think we will try a family all-inclusive resort this summer. We are a beach or lake family, not a Disney or theme park family. While we do try new things, I think I will wait a few more years before I bring the entire family to Disney or a theme park. I mean, for as much as we would be paying, I want them to remember every little bit of it. There’s a lot on the horizon this season and next, so make sure you have those daily planners and calendars updated to help make this hectic time a little easier.
Publisher
Email amylynn@familyresourcegroupinc.com to tell me about topics you'd like to see in future issues.
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from the bookshelf
In March, summer might seem ages away, but it will be here sooner than you think, and it’s time to start thinking about camp again! Get your kiddos excited for the summer with these campy reads from the New Orleans Public Library.
CHILDREN Join the Beginning Baby animal friends for a day filled with fun in illustrator Nicola Slater’s Let’s Go to Color Camp! Here, babies will learn to identify nine different colors, each with its own tabbed section, as they tap, touch and count their way through an activity- packed day. In Nugget and Dog: S’more Than Meets the Eye by Jason Tharp, young readers meet a hot dog named Dog and a chicken nugget named Nugget, as they plan for a fun- filled summer at camp. But things get sticky when fellow camper Dijon implements his evil plan... MIDDLE GRADE In Summer at Squee by Andrea Wang, we follow Chinese American tween, Phoenny Fang, a senior camper at Summertime Chinese Culture, Wellness
Mallika Das are attending a summer camp where the campers are trying out for minor parts in a romance/ detective television show set in Regency times--but when Eila meets the handsome Rahul there is plenty of drama to be had outside of the screenplay. Be on the lookout for the Library’s 2024 Summer Fun & Reading Challenge, to keep kids engaged with reading and activities on those long summer days between camp sessions. The library also offers volunteering opportunities for teens looking to give back to their community. Visit nolalibrary.org/teens to fill out an application or sign up for the Reading Buddies Program, which pairs 8th- 12th grade volunteers with kindergarten to 2nd grade students to help encourage a love of literacy.
ill kids and their families, where he met campers and fellow counselors who forever changed the course of his life. For mystery-loving teens, The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson is a great choice. The story follows Stevie Bell, a teenage detective who just received a message from the owner of Sunny Pines – a camp formerly known as Camp Wonder Falls and the site of the infamous Box in the Woods murders. The new camp owner wants Stevie to help him work on a true-crime podcast about the unsolved case. Going undercover as a camp counselor, Stevie learns that something evil still lurks at the camp, and The Box in the Woods is willing to make room for more victims. Rosewood: A Midsummer Meet Cute by Sayantani Dasgupta is perfect for any budding star. Sister Eila and
and Enrichment Experience (Squee), as she finds her summer even more transformative than she could’ve imagined, with new friendships, her first crush, and a bigger love for and understanding of her community. Mariama J. Lockington’s In the Key of Us tells the story of Zora and Andi, the only two Black girls in a sea of mostly white faces at Harmony Music Camp. In kayaks and creaky cabins, the two begin to connect, unraveling their loss, insecurities, and hopes for the future. And as they struggle to figure out who they really are, they may just come to realize who they really need: each other. TEEN In Sunshine by Jarrett J. Krosoczka, the author shares his extraordinary experiences as a counselor at Camp Sunshine, a camp for seriously
Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian for the New Orleans Public Library’s collections and acquisitions department. Marie Simoneaux is the media and communications coordinator for the New Orleans Public Library.
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spotlight
GIRL SCOUTS LOUISIANA EAST BY MADISON VOORHIES
12 MARCH 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM actively contributes to the betterment of Greater New Orleans. Projects like extends far beyond individual growth. Through Take Action Projects and the pursuit of the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, Girl Scouts Louisiana East Girl Scouts Louisiana East has been a cornerstone of community support and young women empowerment since its inception in 2008, born from the merger of the Audubon Council and Southeast Louisiana Council. While we often hear about the importance of supporting the Girl Scouts, it’s equally essential to understand the profound impact they have on our community. One of the core benefits of Girl Scouts membership is the holistic growth it fosters in young girls. Through the four pillars of Girl Scouts– STEM, Outdoors, Life Skills, and Entrepreneurship– girls develop into individuals of courage, confidence, and character. The diverse array of badges available allows members to explore new avenues and skills, broadening their horizons in ways they might not encounter elsewhere. However, the impact of Girl Scouts
girls have continuous opportunities for growth and adventure. For those interested in supporting Girl Scouts Louisiana East, there are numerous avenues available. Volunteering with troops and programs or participating in the annual giving campaign are just a couple of ways to contribute to the development of future leaders in Southeast Louisiana. For girls eager to join a troop, the process is simple. Reach out to the Membership staff via email or visit the website to fill out the Girl Scout Interest Form. With troops forming daily, there’s always room for new members to embark on the journey of courage, confidence, and character building. In closing, it’s important to remember that Girl Scouts is for every girl in every community. As we strive to build a better tomorrow, let’s join hands in supporting and empowering the next generation of leaders. Join Girl Scouts Louisiana East today and be part of the journey towards a brighter future. For more information, contact customercare@gsle.org or visit gsle.org.
“Buddy Benches” in schools, little libraries, waterway cleanups, and voter education initiatives are just a few examples of their community- focused endeavors. Moreover, Girl Scouts Louisiana East ensures inclusivity through outreach programs, bringing the Girl Scout experience to girls who may face barriers to participation. These programs offer troop leadership and financial assistance, ensuring that all interested girls have access to the enriching opportunities Girl Scouts provides. This year’s theme, “Unbox the Future,” encapsulates the Girl Scouts’ mission to break down societal barriers and empower girls as entrepreneurial trailblazers. By participating in activities like cookie sales, Girl Scouts are not only raising funds but also forging a path towards a more equitable future for themselves and their communities. While cookie season may come to an end, the work of Girl Scouts never stops. Year-round programming, including summer resident camps, travel camps, and summer day camps, ensures that
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mom about town
LEONIS ROUSSEVE
BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY AARON LEWIS
Occupation: Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Content Creator Husband: Ryan Rousseve Sr. Children: Dylan, 16; Jordan, 4; and Ryan Jr., 18 months Hobbies: Going to brunch, attending festivals, getting outside, reading, watching reality TV
It gives my heart the most joy because I created all three of these humans, I love them, and to watch them love each other in the way I love them is indescribable.
WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? LEONIS: I work from home, so I’ll wake up at about six-ish, 6:30. I go straight into getting the kids ready for school. I bring them to school and get back home at about eight o’clock. That first hour is about eating breakfast and checking my emails. I do what’s called a “money minute,” so I check all my bank accounts, check my credit score, my credit cards, and things like that. I take five minutes and go through all the financial stuff. If I do it early in the morning, then I don’t have to worry about it for the rest of the day. I also use that first hour to post my content for the day. I usually don’t put on my “coworkers” (a.k.a. the cast of Dance Moms) yet because I’m still trying to be productive, but I get all those housekeeping things done first thing in the morning. And then at 9-ish, I’m already logged in and checking my emails, and that’s when I’m really focused on my work. I go pick the kids up at about three-ish, and I start cooking dinner at about five-ish. Jordan comes in a lot of the time and helps me. We make it like a lesson, and we eat dinner by 6:30, bring the kids up for a bathtime and bedtime is right after that. Usually, the kids will go to bed by about eight-ish, and then my husband and I will sit up and watch our TV shows. That’s our time to enjoy each other in the evening. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE YOUR CAREER? LEONIS: I had my oldest son a month after I graduated high school. I had gotten accepted to a really prestigious HBCU in Atlanta, Spelman College. I was in the gifted program, and I was Leonis Rousseve is a resilient mom of three and deftly balances her family, career, and self-care. From managing her personal brand to nurturing her children’s diverse needs, she finds joy in family traditions and watching her children care for one another. With a supportive husband, a passion for trashy reality TV, and her authentic personality, Leonis embodies modern motherhood with grace and determination.
the homecoming queen runner-up. I was supposed to be going places, and then I got pregnant. So I told my school counselor, and the way they responded to me was in a very negative way, and it did not make me feel supported. From then on, it was like, I want to do that, but I want to do it in a different way; I want to be a person that girls can reach out to or a person girls can feel supported by because I didn’t have that at such a vulnerable time. Before that, I wanted to be a child psychiatrist. But when I got pregnant, I realized that was going to take too long. So that’s where I kind of fell into the social work role. I went to school for psychology at UL back at home; then, I found a social work program at Tulane, moved to New Orleans, and I just stayed here after that. WHAT ARE SOME JOYS AND CHALLENGES OF BEING A MOM? LEONIS: It is a challenge having the big age gap, but there are joys and challenges in both. It’s tough sometimes to be present in the developmental stage that each one is in. My 16-year-old has autism, so he struggles with communication and expressing himself sometimes. So I have to be very mindful of how I word things or how I ask questions. I also have to be a mind reader sometimes because he’s not able to express certain things. Then, I have to be in the mindset of a four-year-old who thinks she’s super independent, but still needs a lot of help. There’s also an 18-month-old that’s just into everything and I’m having to literally run behind him and stop him every five seconds. So
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together, it’s just really cool watching them interact in that way. HOW DO YOU KEEP REALITY AND SOCIAL MEDIA SEPARATE? LEONIS: I’ve curated my feed, and I do that all the time. There are a couple of content creators I used to follow, and I loved watching their creations because it was so cute. But then, I had to really reflect on how it made me feel when I watched those things. It made me feel like dang, I should be doing that. So I had to unfollow accounts that did not bring me joy, that didn’t make me feel good about myself. They made me feel bad about who I was as a mom, and I’ve gotten to the point where I’m not going to let any app make me feel bad about myself. I’m very big on curating my feed daily, getting rid of accounts that don’t make me feel good, and adding accounts that do. There are times when I put it away for a day or two and just unplug if I need to, and I encourage anyone and everyone to do that. As a content creator, reminding myself that I’ve built my account and built my community based on just sharing my life, I don’t have to overcomplicate it. That’s what I built my community on being relatable and doing the everyday normal thing. So just doing that and taking that pressure off has helped me as a creator. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER PARENTS? LEONIS: Always do whatever works for you and your family. Don’t subscribe to a certain type of parenting style or a certain “thing” that you’re supposed to do. No matter what you do or how you do it, do whatever works best for you and your family, and give yourself grace. I think a lot of our mom guilt and anxiety comes from comparing ourselves to other parents and families and how they do things, how we wish we could do things, or how we’re not doing this good enough. But as long as whatever you’re doing is working for you and your family, you’re doing great. QUICK Q’S Guilty pleasure.........……….Laguna Beach Favorite date night?.....................Grabbing drinks and a steak dinner Favorite vacation spot?..................Jamaica Favorite book right now?.......... We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers First thing you do in the morning?..........................Check my emails
I have to turn on and off my brain with three completely different mindsets. They do keep me on my toes and there’s never a dull moment. It’s really cool watching them sit and play together and help teach each other things without me having to step in. It gives my heart the most joy because I created all three of these humans, and to watch them love each other in the way that I love them is LEONIS: Our favorite thing is– hands down– movie night. Before I met my husband, it was just me and my oldest. We used to celebrate Christmas Eve by doing a movie night watching Polar Express. That was his favorite movie for years. When he was in elementary school, they would do this thing called Fun Friday, and you would get to watch movies and eat snacks in class. When COVID happened and he was no longer in-person, he asked if we could continue doing Fun Friday at home. I love doing traditions, so I’m like, sure! He loves old just an indescribable feeling. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO AS A FAMILY? 90s and 80s movies, like the movies that I loved when I was a kid. So I don’t complain because they’re my favorite movies too. We try to do newer movies now and things that Jordan will be into. All in all, movie night is the best time in the Rousseve household. WHAT PERSONALITY TRAITS OF YOURS DO YOU SEE IN YOUR CHILDREN? LEONIS: I see a lot of myself in Jordan, more than anyone, honestly. She is the only girl, but she’s very strong-willed. Whether it’s something that she wants or something she’s trying to figure out, I can see her mind going and she’s not going to stop until she figures it out, and that’s how I’ve always been. Dylan is like me because when I was a kid, my mom said every parent meeting she went to, and every teacher she met, everyone always had something nice to say about me. I was always the sweetest kid and very much so a rule follower… Dylan is the exact same way. He wants everybody to be happy. You can’t meet him and talk to him without smiling. Ryan is still a baby and we’re still getting to know each other. But he’s very mischievous. He likes to do silly things to make you laugh, but not necessarily to get in trouble, just to rock the boat. I think he got some of that from me as well, but they all have such different personalities. And all of them, you can see a little bit of both of us. Just watching those personalities mill
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ADVERTORIAL
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2024 CAMP SHOWCASE When it comes to finding the best summer camp for you and your family, we’ve got you covered. Dive deeper into all the camps New Orleans and the surrounding areas have to offer!
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With options catering to outdoor adventures, creative arts, and academic enrichment, there’s truly something for everyone in our 2024 Camp Guide. These experiences promise a summer filled with growth, exploration, and endless possibilities!
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The Transformative Power of Sleepaway Camp BY MADISON VOORHIES
20 MARCH 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM a camp that not only aligns with their interests and personal hobbies but also hope to gain from their camp experience. After all, “an uninformed child is a child that is not going to succeed and thrive in a camp environment,” says Feldman. It’s important to help your child choose S ending your child to a sleepaway camp is a huge step in your child’s life– even if you don’t realize it! Summer camps offer great ways for children to grow emotionally and socially while making new friends and building new life skills along the way. We know it may seem nerve-wracking to send your children away for a week-long– or even month-long– overnight camp experience, but we’re here to reassure you it will all be okay. Tommy Feldman is the director of Camp Granite Lake, a small, family-owned, co-ed sleepaway camp just outside of Denver, Colorado. But what makes Feldman even more of a camp expert? His own children attend other summer sleepaway camps, so he knows what it’s like to be on both sides and is here to help grant some peace of mind throughout this process. Where to Start We’re all about healthy communication here so it’s no surprise we advise you to talk with your child about what the camp they’re going to is like and what they
camps by themselves or with siblings, if they have any. Inviting friends is a great way to calm your child’s nerves, but remind them that summer camps are all about making new friends, even if it is a little scary. Another good practice to ease children’s nerves is having them sleep away from home before they go. “For kids who have never been away to sleepaway camp or never been away from home for even a night,” Feldman says, “[that is] really the first step to making a child comfortable with spending the night away.” He describes these small sleepovers with friends or even family members as bridges to what sleepaway camp really is: either a seven-, or 20-, or 30-day sleepover with all of your new best friends. You can also help your child pack for their upcoming trip and ask them questions about what they’re bringing. Maybe you can remind them to pack their favorite T-shirt or remind them of little things they might forget– anything that will give your camper a sense of ownership and comfort while in transition. Staying In Touch Sometimes, parents are more ready to send their child away to camp than the child is. On the flip side, many children are thrilled to finally catch a break from
your family values. “There are so many factors to consider beyond price, beyond schedule, and location,” explains Feldman, “Looking for the right kinds of activities and making sure that the philosophy based on caring for the social and emotional development of your child aligns with your goals as a parent.” Your child may also be nervous about attending a sleepaway camp for the first time, so Feldman also advises exploring the camp websites together and leaving room for children to ask questions, look at pictures, and overall just spark a conversation about the experience. Most camps nowadays offer opportunities to meet with camp directors or counselors beforehand so that no question goes unanswered before your child leaves. Many families have children with special needs, whether it’s related to their development, dietary requirements, or any other accommodations. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available for all children, regardless of their background or physical condition. However, it’s essential to ask camp directors questions to ensure that the camp can genuinely provide a safe and inclusive environment for your child. Addressing First-Time Jitters Oftentimes, children attend sleepaway
their parents for the summer. Regardless, staying in touch with your child is extremely important to both of you. Feldman explains how parents who continuously offer to rescue their child from camp under any non-emergent circumstances “are actually undermining the entire message you’re trying to send to your child and undermining the experience altogether.” Most camps allow for children and parents to communicate via letters in the mail (you remember… the old-fashioned way) and some even allow for electronic letters, but that often depends on the camp itself and its location. Writing letters is great for both parents and campers, as parents can continuously provide positive reinforcement to their children. Remind them that you believe in them, and they will have a great time, and they will succeed, as opposed to going on about how much you miss them and what the dog has been up to. The Importance of Communication When asked what kinds of activities children can look forward to at camp, Feldman immediately highlights one thing camps won’t be including in
their daily itinerary: screen time! While connecting with the outdoors is a huge component of summer camps, many camps focus on the social development of the child too. Children these days are accustomed to communicating through screens, using apps such as Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok, to name a few. As a result, they may not feel as comfortable with face- to-face interactions. However, according to Feldman, this is actually the most common activity that they engage in. They often sit in bunks and have conversations as they drift off to sleep. They sit across the table from someone, discussing various topics, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company in a physical sense. This enables children to create their own community and establish their own rules. Summer sleepaway camps, like Camp Granite Lake and many others, offer a wide range of physical extracurricular activities suitable for athletes of all skill levels. From archery, hiking, and climbing to water sports like sailing, canoeing, and paddle boarding, there’s something for everyone. But if sports aren’t your child’s cup of tea, they can also indulge in arts and crafts, theater, dance, and even
ceramics. Nighttime activities are usually similar across the board too, including game nights, talent shows, and campfires. You might think your child is about to experience a summer filled with action, but don’t worry. According to Feldman, camps typically offer downtime and rest periods as well. So, if your child wants to curl up with a book or meditate with “This experience is truly transformative for the children,” Feldman asserts. At camp, kids acquire valuable life skills that may be challenging for parents to impart. No matter what, campers can expect to benefit from this experience, and they may even want to return next year! Believe in your children and help them see this experience through to the end. By prioritizing independence, camps teach campers decision-making skills, how to care for themselves and leave them feeling capable of achieving more than they thought possible. This is perhaps the most significant takeaway from the camp experience, whether it’s seven days, 20 days, or 30 days long. nature, they can do it all. Long-Term Benefits
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HOW DO I STILL LOVE BACKPACKING? BY AUSTRIA COHN
22 MARCH 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM For example, on one adventure, we didn’t pack enough food and had to ration along the Pacific Coast Trail in Washington State. We were never in imminent danger of starving, but, to say the least, everyone was hangry. During another backpacking expedition, we got stuck in the rain, shivering through the entire night because we couldn’t get a fire started. B eing a seasoned hiker, camper, and backpacker, I’ve begun to wonder why I love these outdoor activities so much. Just like anything, starting an activity as a beginner, you’re almost certain to run into a couple of hiccups. To be completely transparent, I’ve had my fair share of adventures gone wrong. So the question begs: How do I still love backpacking?
wielding sticks in front of us to break up the invisible webs. With all of these adventures that went wrong at some point, I continue to find myself with the heavy pack on my back, hiking down the trail on yet another adventure. But I’ve found the answer to my question. The Disconnect & Reconnect From the moment we wake up in the morning to the time we are lying in bed trying to fall asleep, worries, thoughts, and feelings are constantly troubleshooting in our brains. Whether it’s work-related, social ponders, or just stuff we can’t seem to let go of, our life is filled with thoughts. The times I’m on the trail, I disconnect from these common worries. I don’t
And I’ll never forget the adventure that went so wrong we have named it “Spider Canyon.” There were two major mistakes made on this outing. 1) We decided to take a “shortcut.” Every time my backpacking group finds themselves tired and wanting to cut the trip in half by taking a shortcut, it seems to never work out in our favor. On the infamous “Spider Canyon” trip, we got lost and ended up far away from where we were supposed to be. 2) We bushwhacked through a canyon. By going off the trail, we encountered fallen tree after fallen tree that we had to climb over. After hours of going through the debris, our arms and legs were cut up. And we found ourselves consistently walking face-first into spider webs: hence Spider Canyon. We quickly began
have my phone in my pocket receiving constant stimuli, nor does my mind wander when I’m lying awake at night because the rock I’m lying on is a much
I’ve realized what makes these potatoes so delicious. It’s a mixture of a long day of hiking, sitting on the dirt around a warm fire, scooping them out of a plastic bowl with a plastic spoon, and being surrounded by family. Strengthening My Mind Through the Tears I’d already stated I’ll be completely transparent, so it’s important to mention that there are still tears on some adventures. The last fourteener I went on, there were false summits one after another, and if it weren’t for my family, I would’ve turned around. Thinking you’ve made it to the top and realizing you’re nowhere close to the summit is a heart- shattering experience. On backpacking trips, I run into the same frustrating and polluting thought – I can’t do this. When I’m tired, hungry, and questioning why I continue to sign up for the Family Backpacking trip, there are usually some angry tears that fall. But after every adventure, no matter how many surprising and unplanned events take place, I’ve realized that these experiences build resilience. Each trip, even when I get upset and ready to quit, strengthens my mind. When I start
feeling defeated during an excursion, I always think of the saying: Your Body is Stronger than Your Mind. The Backfiring Tradition As I write this tradition, it makes me laugh that two of the reasons I love backpacking is because of the food. The tradition – that has backfired in the past – happens right when we get off the mountain. We always go to the closest Mexican restaurant for chips and salsa and smothered burritos. This is where we turn the hard times into funny stories that we can’t stop laughing about. This is when we take notes for things we should do differently. This is when we get to pat ourselves on the back and say: We did it. No matter how many times my family gets caught in the rain, or we run out of food, or we make the decision to bushwack, and it comes back to bite us, I will continue to love these adventures. No matter how many angry tears I get because I signed up for yet another expedition that was difficult physically and mentally, I’ll continue to put my pack on my back, strap on my boots, and do it. Because no matter how many hiccups we might run into, it will never outweigh the positive experiences and strengths that come out of the journey.
bigger problem than the surface-level concerns.
I find myself disconnecting from the day-to-day world, and instead, I am reconnecting with nature and my fellow backpackers (who are always family members). The discussions around the warm fire dive into abstract thoughts and ideas rather than minuscule details and problems. Somehow, It’s Always Michelin Quality A tradition when we backpack is to bring a packet of powdered mashed potatoes because they are lightweight. I always thought these mashed potatoes were better than any I’ve had at Thanksgiving or Christmas. After a backpacking trip, I headed to King Soopers, grabbed a couple of packs of those powdered Michelin-quality potatoes, and cooked them for dinner. I soon realized that these potatoes are actually terrible. There is no way they are better than Grandma’s homemade ones at Thanksgiving.
Follow the White Rabbit and join us at the Tea Party to experience this interactive, action-packed theatrical circus, and meet all the most popular characters of Alice’s adventure along the way.
Visit lafonartscenter.org for more information, or call 985-331-3670 during box office hours.
FREE PARKING!
FRIDAY APRIL 19 7:00 PM
LAFON ARTS CENTER 275 Judge E. Dufresne Pkwy Luling, LA 70070 Only 20 minutes from City Park
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NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2024 23
CAMP TO CAREER: PREPARING CHILDREN FOR SUCCESS BY AMANDA MILLER
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24 MARCH 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM focused camp, they are able to pursue a variety of interests to help them narrow down their future choices. Xavier University’s Pre-College Programs Attending a summer camp focused on a child’s chosen career interest provides an opportunity for the child to not only explore their passion but also help them work toward turning their camp experience into a career. Many hiring managers or casting directors are often looking for previous experience, and by attending these career-focused camps, children are able to gain that experience at an early age. Choosing a Pathway When it comes to pursuing a career, half of the children know what pathway they want to take while others are still undecided. By attending a career- “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It’s the infamous question we have all been asked or even asked someone else at some point. Children, however, are usually the group who are on the receiving end of this question the most, and their recurring answers include teachers, doctors, engineers, actors or singers, gamers, or even influencers. While some careers don’t provide a how-to on successfully landing the job, there are routes that can be taken to help children still pursue their passions.
provide “summer opportunities for academic enrichment, mentorship, career exploration, and lifelong friendships.” These programs allow campers to prepare for healthcare and medicine opportunities, as well as law and government fields. No matter the chosen avenue, campers are able to get a jumpstart on the career of their choice, among other benefits. Gaining the Experience Children who are going into their chosen careers with experience under their belts are already standing out from the crowd. Career-focused camps help these children gain this experience early on, and they can keep returning each summer to fine-tune their skills or choose a different route to explore, all while networking with those who are already in the field. Bethany Hopewell, M.Sc., Director of Pre-College Programs and Office of Student Success at Xavier University, shares, “Our programs are academic in nature and focus on college readiness. Participants are exposed to careers throughout the programs through guest speakers and panels.” Some camps will even take field trips, allowing campers to see everything in action so they can see what it’s like to perform the chosen career.
An added bonus to Xavier’s pre-college programs is that former campers can even get hired by the college. Hopewell shares, “We employ our former campers as current camp staff! Every year we have graduates from Xavier Pre-College who are now Xavier students who work for us in the summer. We love keeping the cycle of mentorship going and creating professional development opportunities While these particular camps are unique in providing a starting point for a career, they also provide many of the basic skills seen in traditional camps: team-building, problem-solving, communication, and leadership. for our college students.” Learning and Growing Hopewell adds, “Participants develop critical reading, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. They gain independence and confidence as they navigate living away from their families and making choices about their free time, and they’re immersed in the culture of Xavier University of Louisiana and New Orleans, experiencing food, art, and music.” Attending a career-focused camp catapults children into the career of their choice, providing them with a unique– and fun–opportunity to explore their interests and get an early start at landing the job of their dreams.
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2024 CAMPS LISTING
Grab your sleeping bags and pack your bug spray; it’s time for Summer Camp! Whether you’re looking to get your child out of the house for a few hours a day, or for the whole summer, we’ve got you covered with some of the best, most thrilling camps happening this year. From creative arts and traditional day camps to sports and STEM camps, the options are endless. Read on to find out which camp your child is best suited for.
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Creative Arts 2024 Creative
Camp D’echecs 812 General Pershing St., New Orleans ebnola.net Grades: 1-8 Dates: May 27-July 19 Rates: $355/week Le Camp D’Été 812 General Pershing St., New Orleans ebnola.net Grades: PK3- Age 14 Dates: May 27-July 19 Rates: $220-$310 NEXUS Robotics Camp 1 Discovery Cir., Pearlington, MS (228) 533-9025 visitinfinity.com/camps Ages: 12-17 Dates: June 24-28 Rate: $295 Reading Camp 812 General Pershing St., New Orleans ebnola.net Grades: 1-2 Dates: May 27-July 19 Rates: $405-$675 Ready, Set, Read!
summercamps (504) 539-9624 Grades: 2-12 Dates: June 10-July 12 Rates: $300-$350 Upturn Arts Summer Camp 1719 Toledano St., New Orleans upturnarts.org/programs/ summer-camp-season (504) 390-8399 Ages: 4-12 Dates: May 20-August 9 Rates: $345-$375 1 Discovery Cir., Pearlington, MS (228) 533-9025 visitinfinity.com/camps Ages: 12-15 Dates: June 24-28 Rate: $295 Astro Camp Education Artemis Camp 1 Discovery Cir., Pearlington, MS (228) 533-9025 visitinfinity.com/camps Ages: 7-11 Dates: June 24-28 Rates: $295
NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2024 25 Summer Jazz Camp 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (504) 715-9295 louisarmstrongjazzcamp.com 923 Napoleon Ave., New Orleans (504) 891-5509 stgnola.org/summer Grades: Rising K-5th Graders Dates: June 10-July 26 Rates: $835-895 Performing Arts stgnola.org/summer Grades: Rising 5th-8th Dates: June 3-7 Rate: $390 JPAS Theatre Kids Youth Musical Theater Summer Intensives 6400 Airline Dr., Metairie (504) 885-2000 jpas.org/youth-intensives Ages: 6-18 Dates: June 3-July 28 Rates: $300-600 Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong Collaboration Lab 923 Napoleon Ave., New Orleans (504) 891-5509
Summer Experience 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (504) 865-3430 cmm.loyno/scdexperience Grades: Rising 9th- 12th Graders Dates: June 17-21; June 24-28 Rates: $600-700 Art Camp 504 3113 Royal St., New Orleans (504) 535-5370 artcamp504.org Ages: 7-14 Dates: June 3-August 16 Rates: $350-375 Museum Lab 520 Royal St., New Orleans (504) 523-4662 hnoc.org/programs/ museum-lab Ages: 13-18 Dates: June 10-June 14 Rate: $250 Ogden Museum Summer Camps 925 Camp St., New Orleans ogdenmuseum.org/
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Chapelle Summer Camp 8800 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie (504) 467-3105 archbishopchapelle.org/ summer-programs Grades: Rising 1st- 7th Graders Dates: June 3-28 Rates: $190/week Child Development Program Summer Camp 4505 S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans cdpkid.net (504) 899-8732 Ages: 13 months-5 years Dates: June 3-July 28 Rates: $290-$305/week Dragon Camp 923 Napoleon Ave., New Orleans (504) 891-5509 stgnola.org/summer Ages: 1 through rising 4th Graders Dates: June 10-July 26 Rates: $840-955 JCC Summer Camp 2024 5342 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie Uptown: (504) 897-0143 Metairie: (504) 887-5158 nojcc.org Ages: 21 months through Rising 8th Graders Dates: June 3-July 26 Rates: $330-$360 Little Red Schoolhouse Summer Camp 2055 Metairie Rd., Metairie lrshofmetairie.com/ 2022-summer-camp Ages: 3-6 Rates: $885-$1,095 Dates: June 3-August 16 MCA Summer Camp 7027 Milne Blvd., New Orleans (504) 288-7626 mcacubs.com/camp Grades: 2-8 Dates: June 3-28, weekly Rates: $85-110 per session Memorial Baptist Summer Camp 5701 Veterans Blvd., Metairie
St. George’s Sports Camp 923 Napoleon Ave., New Orleans (504) 891-5509 stgnola.org/summer Grades: Rising 3rd-6th Dates: July 22-August 2 Rate: $325 Traditional Day Camp Academy of the Sacred Heart 4521 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (504) 269-1230 ashrosary.org/summer Ages: 1-13 Dates: June 10-July 26 Rates: $330-400/week Brother Martin High School Crusader Camp 4401 Elysian Fields Ave., New Orleans (504) 283-1561 ext. 3022 brothermartin.com Ages: 6–12, boys Dates: May 27–July 3 3101 Wall Blvd., Gretna ardencahillacademy.com (504) 392-0902 Ages: 3 through 8th Grade Dates: May 28-August 2 Rate: $1250 Camp Cabrini 1400 Moss St., New Orleans (504) 483-8665 cabrinihigh.com/camp Grades: 1-7 Dates: June 3-28 Rates: $200-400 Camp Viking 6600 Kawanee Ave., Metairie (504) 887-5600 stphilipneri.org/ summer-camp Ages: 3-12 Dates: May 28-July 26 Rates: $180/week Cardinal Camp 8012 Oak St., New Orleans (504) 861-3743 saesnola.org/school-life/ cardinal-camp Ages: 4-11 Dates: June 3-July 26 Rates: $250/week Rates: $160-$800 Cahill Camp Corral
(504) 887-0533 memorialbaptistschool.com/ summer-camp Ages: 6 months to 12 years Dates: June 3-August 2 Rate: $170/week Pony Tales Day Camp 156 Bertucci Ln., St. Rose ponytalesbirthdays.com (504) 469-0148 Ages: 4-12 Dates: May 28-August 16 Rate: $65 VBS 6500 Riverside Dr., Metairie (504) 887-0225 alcs.org Ages: 5-11 Dates: June-July Rates: $55-$160 The National WWII Museum Summer Camps 945 Magazine St., New Orleans nationalww2museum.org/ summer-camps Grades: 3-8 Dates: June 10-July 28 Rates: $275-$325 Overnight Camps Camp Green Cove 617 Green Cove Rd., Tuxedo, NC (828) 692-6355 greencove.com Ages: 6-17 Dates: May 29-August 12 Rates: $1,700-8,200 Camp Stanislaus 304 South Beach Blvd., Bay Saint Louis, MS (228) 467-9057 campstanislaus.com Ages: 7-15 Dates: June 7-July 19 Rates: $225-910 Cub Creek Science Camp 16795 State Route E, Rolla, MO (573) 458-2125 cubcreeksciencecamp.com Ages: 7-17 Dates: June 2-August 10 Rates: $1,290
Ages: 10-21 Dates: June 24-July 12 Rates: $200-500 Mandeville School of Music & Dance Music-Dance- Drama Camp 105 Campbell Ave. #3, Mandeville (985) 674-2992 laapa.com/camp Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 8-August 2 Rate: $350/week River Ridge School of Music & Dance Music-Dance- Drama Camp 202 Dickory Ave. #200, Harahan (504) 738-3050 laapa.com/camp Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 9-August 2 Rate: $350/week Sports, Fitness, and Gymnastics Camp 7800 Earhart Blvd., New Orleans crescentcitygymnastics.com (504) 861-1740 Ages: 4-12 Dates: May 28-August 2 Rates: $240/week Nutrition Crescent City Elevate Sports Summer Camp 5708 Airline Hwy., Metairie (504) 606-5203 elevatesports504.com Ages: 7-12 Dates: May 28-July 26 Rate: $175 Elmwood Gymnastics Camp 700 Elmwood Park Blvd., Ste. C, Elmwood kidsportsnola.com (504) 733-4496 Ages: 3-12 Dates: May 20-August 2 Rates: $205-$740 Kidsports Summer Camp 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Elmwood kidsportsnola.com (504) 733-1200 Ages: 3-12 Dates: May 13-August 9 Rates: $205-$740
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26 MARCH 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
March 2024
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out & about
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Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party Experience the excitement of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live in Nola, showcasing favorites like Mega Wrex alongside epic light shows and dance parties, with special kids pricing for a family-friendly event. March 9-10 at the Smoothie King Center with showtimes at 2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 12:30 p.m. smoothiekingcenter.com
St. Patrick’s Day Metairie Road Parade This parade in Old Metairie celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with over 100 floats, trucks, bands, and marching clubs, following the original Metairie parade route, inviting families to join in the festivities with abundant throws and traditional Irish luck. March 17 at noon. stpatricksdaymetairie.com
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Egg Scramble 3
Visit the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park for an egg-celent day complete with an egg hunt, music, a visit from the Easter Bunny and unlimited Amusement Park rides. March 23 from 9 a.m. to noon. neworleanscitypark.org
and Encanto 4 “For the First Time in Forever,” Disney on Ice takes you and your family along the magical
Disney on Ice Presents Frozen
5 The CCC10k has evolved into Crescent City Classic
adventures of Anna, Elsa, Mirabel, and their families as they embrace the power of love. March 28-31 at the Lakefront Arena with showtimes at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 7 p.m. arena.uno.edu
Louisiana’s premier fitness event, celebrated for its fast 10k course, festive atmosphere, and contributions to promoting health and fitness in the New Orleans Metro area. March 30 at Caesars Superdome. 8 a.m. ccc10k.com
HEADS UP!
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information and check with locations about individual COVID rules.
NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2024 27
MARCH 2024
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01 Fri. Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations Saenger Theatre. 8 p.m. $35- $119. saengernola.com O First Friday Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Free to college students. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ogdenmuseum.org Pelicans vs. Indiana Pacers Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $15+. smoothiekingcenter.com 02 Sat. Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations Saenger Theatre. 2 p.m. or 8 p.m. $35-$139. saengernola.com Baby Builders Alvar Library. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org BIPOC Teens & Manga Research Study Main Library from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Norman Mayer Library from 3-4 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Dinosaur Adventure Pontchartrain Center. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. $26-$49. Children 2 and under Free. dinosauradventure.com First Saturday Family Story Hour Robert E. Smith Library. 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Gretna Farmers Market Weekly at the Gretna Market Building. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30
Little Stompers Family Class New Orleans Jazz Museum. $35-$180. 10 a.m. secondlinearts.org/family Olivia Rodrigo - GUTS World Tour Smoothie King Center. 7:30 p.m. $20-$195. ticketmaster.com Playtime: Let’s Play Barber Shop and Beauty Salon Weekly at Algiers Regional Library. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Playtime: Let’s Play Camping Weekly at Main Library. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Playtime: Let’s Play Dress Up Weekly at Norman Mayer Library. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Playtime: Let’s Play Kitchen Weekly at East New Orleans Regional Library. 10 a.m. to Noon. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Playtime: Let’s Play Market Weekly at Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Sprouts Longue Vue House and Gardens. $10. 9:30-11 a.m. longuevue.com Vue Crew Longue Vue House and Gardens. 2-4 p.m. $20. longuevue.com Wiener Dog Racing Fair Grounds Race Course. $10-$34. Ages 2 and under Free. 12:30-5:30 p.m. ticketmaster.com 03 Sun. Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and
Times of The Temptations Saenger Theatre. 1 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. $35-$139. saengernola.com Crescent City Farmers Market New Orleans City Park, Tad Gormley Stadium. 8 a.m. to Noon. Dinosaur Adventure Pontchartrain Center. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. $26-$49. Children 2 and under Free. dinosauradventure.com Free Family Sunday Longue Vue House and Gardens. 1-5 p.m. Free for Louisiana residents. longuevue.com 04 Mon. Budding Artists Robert E. Smith Library. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Crafting with Literature for Kids Weekly at Children’s Resource Center Library. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Kitten Yoga Weekly at East Bank Regional Library. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. jplibrary.net LEGO Club Norman Mayer Library. 4:30- 5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org 05 Tues. Activate STEAM Afternoon Algiers Regional Library. 4-5 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Best Buy Teen Tech Center Community Day Main Library. 1-5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Evening Storytime
East New Orleans Regional Library. 5-6 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Snuggles & Struggles New Parent Support Group Weekly at Children’s Hospital New Orleans. Hybrid from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. chnola. org/theparentingcenter STEM NOLA Afterschool Norman Mayer Library. 4-5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Storytime Weekly at Algiers Regional Library, Main Library, Milton H. Latter Memorial Library, Norman Mayer Library, and Robert E. Smith Library from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Teen STEAM: Bead Art Rosa F. Keller Library. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org 06 Weds. Activate STEAM Afternoon Central City Library. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Drake & J. Cole Concert Smoothie King Center. $59-$442. 8 p.m. smoothiekingcenter.com LEGO Club Nix Library from 4-5 p.m. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Prime Time Preschool Reading Nora Navra Library. 5-6:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org STEM NOLA Afterschool Norman Mayer Library. 4-5:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org Storytime Weekly at Alvar Library, Children’s Resource Center
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p.m. gretnala.com K-Pop Dance Day Rosa F. Keller Library. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. events.nolalibrary.org
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28 MARCH 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
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