NOLA 2025
nola family Parent Fearlessly AUGUST 2025
The Rise of the Skater Girl
Future Engineers, Assemble!
100+ Local Activities Kids Will Love
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AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor SANONNA AL TAWEEL AMANDA CIANI JULIANNA STEEN MADISON VOORHIES Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION TOM GONZALES MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT Sales Manager KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN MARTINE MELANCON KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY
Photos by pvproductions on Freepik.com, Kimberlee Lauer, Laron Roland, and Alicia Val.
A LETTER TO EVERY KID HEADING BACK TO SCHOOL Heading back to school can feel exciting, overwhelming, or a little bit of both. This letter is for every kid gearing up for a new year, reminding them they’ve got what it takes (and it’s okay to forget your lunch sometimes, too). CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S “OVO” RETURNS TO NEW ORLEANS Cirque du Soleil’s beloved bug- themed spectacle OVO returns to New Orleans next month with a fresh new look, reimagined acts, and dazzling energy. Catch the magic at the Smoothie King Center from September 18–21, 2025!
OFF THE HOOK SERVES UP SUMMER TREATS AND SOUTHERN GENEROSITY Off The Hook is teaming up with Sno-Balls To Go to serve up sweet treats for a great cause this summer. For every Sno-Ball sold, $1 goes to Dreams Come True of Louisiana to support local children battling life-threatening illnesses. ONE MAN. ONE MISSION. ONE HUNDRED MILES OF HOPE. Manning Family Children’s CEO Lou Fragoso is running 100 miles in honor of 100 brave patients to raise funds and awareness for Louisiana’s only freestanding children’s hospital. His Leadville Trail 100 Run on August 16 is more than a race; it’s a mission of heart, hope, and healing.
DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of
Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN
Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director of Accounting ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator BREE WRAY Website & Digital Content Strategist SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager CONTACT US: editorial@ frg.inc CORPORATE OFFICE: 3636 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Ste. 540 Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (504) 866-0555 A PUBLICATION OF AUGUST 2025 • ISSUE 171
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nola family CONTENTS
AUGUST 2025
14
FEATURES
16 20 22
30
32
Skate Like a Girl: Carving Out Space in Skate Culture
Robotics: Tinkering Towards Tomorrow
Gameday with Kids: Tackling Football Season as a Family
Learning from Losing
Your 2025 Guide to After-School Awesomeness
IN EACH ISSUE
Spotlight Snapshots 8 1012 143540 42
From the Publisher
From the Bookshelf
Dad About Town
Out & About
Things We Love
NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
6 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
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from the publisher
Caffeine, Chaos, & Carpool
W ith another summer in the rearview, the school year is creeping back in, dragging its full schedule of chaos right along with it. That means after-school activities are ramping up, and this momma is officially back on the geaux. I naively thought having another driver in the house would lighten my load a bit... but as it turns out, I’m still the preferred Uber. Go figure. In just a few short weeks, we’ll be knee-deep in flag football, soccer, dance, school clubs, carpool lanes, PTF volunteering (our school’s version of PTA), basketball, and eventually track & field, and one final recital to wrap it all up. Just reading that makes me tired. As we start getting back into a routine—and by routine, I mean sprinting from one thing to the next—I can’t help but wish for just one more month of summer. I swear it gets shorter every year, even though the calendar insists otherwise. Over the past year, we let both boys try flag football (because why not test my sanity?)—only one is returning this season, but somehow the other is out here becoming a long jump champion. Like, placing at every meet?! Add in soccer and basketball—my personal favorite, though I do consider doubling my anxiety meds on game days— and it’s no wonder my afternoons are booked tighter than my work calendar.
Some practices are nearby. Some are across town. All of them require snacks, water bottles I forgot to fill, and a strong playlist to get me through traffic. I might grumble, I might lose a shoe (or a child’s cleat), but honestly, I wouldn’t trade it. These are the good, messy, memory-making days. And just to really pull at my heartstrings, we have a senior this year. Yep. Senior. I haven’t even begun to emotionally process that. I’m in a GroupMe with all the other senior parents, some of whom seem far too organized and emotionally stable. They’re already tossing out timelines and tips, while I’m still trying to remember what day school starts. As I start loading all these events and deadlines into my calendar, I can’t help but start a mental countdown. This is her final year—her last time to take the stage, to shine, to make me cry like I’m watching a Hallmark movie. She’s so ready. And we’re so proud. We’ve made it this far, and now we have one more year to pour into her before she heads off into the world. So yes, there will be caffeine. There will be photos. There will be screaming on the sidelines and crying in parking lots (me, again). But most of all, there will be gratitude—for this wild season, and for the privilege of being the one behind the wheel, cheering them on every step of the way.
Publisher
Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you'd like to see in future issues.
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D o you have a budding performer in your family? Inspire their love of the stage—or help quell their fears—with a book about their craft. Check out these great titles from the New Orleans Public Library to grow their passion for dance, music, acting, and more.
from the bookshelf
CHILDREN Uni the Unicorn: Uni’s First Recital by Candice Ransom & Alan Batson Uni fans new and old will be excited to join this bighearted unicorn on a new adventure that shares the power of hard work and practice—plus a little help from mom and unicorn magic—to feel confident! The Life-changing Magic of Drumming by Nandi Bushell & Andrea Stegmaier Find out how Nandi Bushell—the young drummer who has played with the Foo Fighters—discovered drumming when she was just five years old. She shares how she plays and offers insider tips and advice for young musicians around the world. Bruno’s Other Gift by Susana Illera Martínez Bruno Madrigal loves acting, but he’s nervous to star in his own stories. Can Mirabel and her family help Bruno feel confident enough to follow his dreams? MIDDLE GRADE
Maya Plays the Part by Calyssa Erb Maya is an autistic girl who lives and breathes musicals. She’s convinced she’ll land the lead role in her community theater’s newest production. But when things don’t go as planned, Maya must figure out how to play the part that truly feels like her own. Benny Ramírez and the Nearly Departed by José Pablo Iriarte After moving cross-country into his late grandfather’s Miami mansion, Benny discovers that the ghost of his famous trumpet-playing abuelo, the great Ignacio Ramírez, is still there . . . and isn’t too thrilled about it. Abuelo has until New Year’s Eve to do some good in the world and thinks that teaching Benny how to play the trumpet and become a school celebrity might be the key to earning his wings. Letters to Misty: How to Move Through Life With Confidence and Grace by Misty Copeland with Nikki Shannon Smith New York Times best-selling author and
first black female American Ballet Theatre principal dancer Misty Copeland offers advice on and off the dance floor to young readers based on letters she’s received over the years from fans. TEEN Riot Act by Sarah Lariviere In an alternate 1991, the authoritarian US government keeps tabs on everybody and everything. When her best friend is killed by the authorities and her theater teacher disappears without a trace, Gigi decides to organize her fellow Champaign High School thespians to put on a production of Henry VI. But at what cost? Leap by Simina Popescu Two dancers chase perfection at a prestigious performing arts boarding school in Bucharest, Romania—grappling with friendship, first love, and what it means to be queer in a conservative city. As they reach for their dreams, the girls begin to question if the future they’ve worked for is still the future they want.
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
COALITION TO RESTORE COSTAL LOUISIANA
BY MADISON VOORHIES
W hen it comes to Louisiana’s coastal future, the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL) isn’t just on the front lines; They’ve been leading the charge for more than 35 years. CRCL was founded in 1988 and was the first statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the devastating problem of coastal land loss in Louisiana. “We were founded at a time when I don’t think everybody recognized that coastal land loss was occurring or that it was a big problem for individuals, industries, and communities,” says James Karst, Communications Director at CRCL. “And I think they also didn’t really understand that there were things that we could do about it.” Today, the coalition’s work is more urgent than ever. Through a unique blend of on- the-ground restoration, environmental education, community outreach, and advocacy at every level of government, CRCL is leading efforts to both protect and rebuild Louisiana’s disappearing coast.
their oyster shells, which they used to send to landfills, and we put it back into the water instead, where it can do many good things,” Karst explains. These reefs help reduce shoreline erosion, provide habitat for marine life, and even support Louisiana’s oyster industry by giving baby oysters a place to grow. Another vital project is CRCL’s large-scale tree and marsh grass planting initiative, which restores critical habitats across the coast. Tens of thousands of trees— especially bald cypress—are currently being planted in areas like the Maurepas Swamp, the Central Wetlands near New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward, and St. Bernard Parish. “It used to be a forest, and it is going to be a forest again,” says Karst. CRCL is leading the effort and working with volunteers to plant a huge number of trees over the next four years. “It’s really gratifying work,” Karst adds. Why Coastal Loss Affects Us All The urgency of coastal restoration goes far beyond protecting wetlands for wildlife or recreation. It’s about the safety and sustainability of communities across the state. “We want people to understand that preserving and restoring coastal wetlands affects people who live inland, not [just] people who live right on the water,” Karst says. “There was a study that determined the Gulf is 10 miles closer to the city of Houma (now) than it was in the 1930s... If it’s 10 miles closer to Houma, it’s also 10 miles closer to New Orleans; It’s 10 miles closer to Baton Rouge;
CRCL also makes it easy for Louisianians of all ages to get involved. Whether it’s collecting cypress seeds, volunteering to build oyster reefs, donating Christmas trees, or even attending one of their community events like the annual Shell- A-Bration at the Audubon Zoo, there are countless ways to support the cause. “[You] could simply go to a restaurant and eat a dozen oysters, and [you’re] helping to preserve the coast,” Karst says. Their mission also includes education and leadership development. CRCL’s Future Coastal Leaders Program engages college students, while the Coastal Leadership Institute offers professional development in environmental strategy and advocacy. And through the Coastal Stewardship Awards, CRCL recognizes individuals and groups who’ve made outstanding contributions to the fight for Louisiana’s coast. What truly makes CRCL stand out is its collaborative, community-focused approach. “We really lean into the coalition part of our name,” Karst says. CRCL brings together a truly diverse group of people: nonprofits, government agencies, restaurants, volunteers, and even the DJs helping raise money at parties. “Nobody wants to see Louisiana wash away, and we want everybody to help us preserve it,” James concludes. To learn more about CRCL, volunteer, or support their mission, visit crcl.org. From sharing a social media post to planting a cypress tree, every action counts when it comes to saving Louisiana’s coast, because it belongs to all of us.
Restoration and a Side of Oysters, Please!
12 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM Among their most impactful programs is the Oyster Shell Recycling Program (the only one of its kind in the state!). Since 2014, CRCL has collected over 13 million pounds of used oyster shells from partner restaurants in Baton Rouge and New Orleans and returned them to the water to build living oyster reefs. “We work with restaurants, and we take
A True Coalition for Change
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dad about town
14 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM JON: Helping people. When it comes to Happy Dad, my term is always, “mutually beneficial.” I’m a sales guy, whether it’s with Happy Dad [or] even with our company, look like a party, and somehow always brings the good vibes with him. WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? JON: That’s a very tough question because no day is normal. And that’s the nature of my industry, too, where we have to be very flexible. There’s a lot of moving parts in what I do. A typical day, you know, I’m waking up between six and seven, right alongside Lincoln. Lauren and I kind of tag team in the morning. In the alcohol industry, I can’t sell directly to, [for example,] Rouse’s or Fred’s in Tigerland in Baton Rouge. I have to work through a distributor, so [I make] a lot of phone calls throughout the day, and then I’m actually out in the market too, which is what I enjoy the most. Within the industry, the one nice thing that I do have is simply flexibility. That’s been very helpful, especially having a family and also working from home. WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST FULFILLING ABOUT THE WORK YOU DO? JON GUSANDERS BY MADISON VOORHIES If you happen to spot a drone buzzing above a local festival or catch a dad in the grocery store juggling a toddler and a hard seltzer pitch at the same time, odds are you’ve just encountered Jon Gusanders. Equal parts family man, marketing guru, and drone enthusiast, Jon wears more hats than most. As Gulf Coast Sales Director for Happy Dad Hard Seltzer and co-owner of Wander on Marketing, he somehow still finds time to find peace in his garden, chase down rain barrels, and share Disney movie nights with his toddler, Lincoln, and loving wife, Lauren. Friendly, thoughtful, and full of contagious positive energy, Jon is the kind of dad who makes the chaos of New Orleans parenting
Wife: Lauren Gusanders Child: Lincoln, 20 months Occupation: Gulf Coast Sales Director for Happy Dad Hard Seltzer and Co-Owner of
Wander On Marketing and Events Hobbies: Droning and gardening
WORK AND FAMILY? JON: I spend some time out in my garden. We almost always do dinner at 5/6 p.m. Lincoln usually goes to bed [at] 7:30/8 o’clock, and we do go to a lot of festivals and concerts. If it’s not one of those nights where we’re out doing things or out to dinner, we like watching movies with Lincoln. Both Lauren and I have gone back to our inner Disney days, and it’s fun watching all the things that we used to watch: The Lion King, Aladdin, Sesame Street … just spending that last hour or so with our son before he goes to bed. Once Lincoln’s asleep, then Lauren and I can actually unwind for the day. We found that over the years, we always tried watching shows together. Then we go to bed, and we start it all over again the next day. WHAT SURPRISED YOU ABOUT BECOMING A DAD? JON: I knew my life would be full of joy having a child, watching him grow, and being alongside him. But I had no clue how truly joyous it is. That smile in the morning… Kids can pull you out of the deepest, darkest trends. You could have the worst day, and you walk in, and he runs up to us, grabs our legs, and gives us hugs, and that can quickly flip your day. It also puts life in perspective. When you’re coming home to something like that, and I’m waking up to something like that, it definitely helps bring more joy into all of our lives.
we’re selling a service. But I never want to sell something that’s not good for the customer. I want it to be beneficial for all. Ultimately, when we can create that mutually beneficial program or sale, everybody wins. Everybody’s happy. Everybody’s making money. And ultimately, the customer’s getting what they want, whether it’s in terms of the seltzer or our personal business helping them with marketing strategies, social media, photography, event creation, [or] event production. HOW DO YOU JUGGLE CAREER AND FAMILY LIFE? JON: Being flexible. I am a flexible person in general. A common phrase that I use is, “controlling your controllables.” Whether it’s business or home life, we’ve had some challenges with things that were out of our control. So that’s really how I go about my day-to-day: Control what we can, and do it in a positive way. Try to be humble, be kind, [and] be positive. And ultimately, good things will come from that. I’m fortunate to have the personality where I can do that and still be successful. Sometimes, it is hard to maintain that positive spirit, but that’s something that Lauren and I focus on regularly. It’s so easy to be negative, but why be negative? If you’re positive, good things come from that, and you feel better. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO UNWIND AFTER A LONG DAY WITH
QUICK Q’S Dream vacation destination… Iceland Current obsession… AI Hobby I wish I had more time for… Piano One thing I can’t leave the house without.. My drone Something I’m excited about… The future he loves those things. He’s enjoying the concerts, he’s smiling, he’s laughing. I’m fortunate to have a great partner. Lauren is amazing in every way, whether it’s the business or seeing her grow as a mom, it blows my brain just how amazing that she is with it. I want Lincoln to look back and know that we had a lot of fun together, we brought him places, we had great experiences, and we met great people, and hopefully, that all builds with his personality. CHILDHOOD WITH YOU? JON: Having a lot of fun and experiences. Lauren and I are a lot more about experiences. We’re not really materialistic; We’re all about experiences. So we love including him in everything that we can. And we, of course, do it safely. Going to festivals, we’ll put him in the big headphones, and
TELL US ABOUT A RECENT “PROUD DAD” MOMENT.
WHO HAS INFLUENCED YOUR PARENTING STYLE THE MOST? JON: My family. I’m the fifth of five in my family, so I have four older siblings. My oldest sibling is 17 years older than I am, so there’s quite a spread. My parents would probably never admit it, but I know they had to have been tired. I only have one child, and I’m already tired! They had five over the course of a 17-year span; They had to be exhausted by the time I came into the picture. So there was definitely some casual parenting. I already know that when and if we have a second child, we’ll do things just a little bit differently. I effectively had six parents growing up because [my siblings] were all looking after me—all of it in a good way. I just had a lot of positivity growing up. I’m very fortunate to have really supportive parents who have supported us and me in everything that I’ve done. That’s just the way to go about doing it: being positive and supportive. I’m hoping that over the course of time, that’s what I am to Lincoln. WHAT LESSONS DO YOU HOPE LINCOLN LEARNS FROM YOU? JON: Control the controllables. Be humble and kind. It’s a lot easier to love than it is to hate. I’m hoping that we can instill that in him, he appreciates that, and he lives his life that way.
JON: Recently, we went to a wedding in New York. Of course, [Lincoln] was the ring bearer. My wife, Lauren, was also in the wedding. We couldn’t get Lincoln walking [by himself], which was fine, but at that point, he could walk as long as you were holding his hand. Now, he’s running everywhere. He’s doing the stairs up and down. He’s doing it all. But basically, the day before [the wedding] was when he really started getting that rhythm of walking (at least being handheld). He walked down the aisle with Lauren, stole the show for the wedding, and people were laughing and crying. I was crying as [I was] videoing them coming down the aisle! It was definitely a proud moment to see. I feel like every day I’m proud. Whether it’s a simple walk or saying, “Hi, daddy,” which he started a few weeks ago, and now he says it all the time. Everything’s new to him, too, which is great, seeing that through our eyes, just kind of experiencing this wonderment of life when you’re that age. All you know is positivity. Your needs are basic. You just want to eat and have fun and be around your parents and people that you’re familiar with. WHAT DO YOU HOPE LINCOLN REMEMBERS MOST ABOUT HIS
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Skate Like a Girl: Carving Out Space in Skate Culture
BY SANONNA AL TAWEEL
16 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM a global media platform dedicated to empowering women through skateboarding and creative expression. The 2021 Skate Representation Survey, created by Mariah Davenport, found that participation rates of women in skateboarding increased by a staggering 790 percent over the previous decade. The study points to increased visibility— particularly on social media—as a key factor. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have given female skaters a place to connect, share their progress, and learn from each other. These online communities have become a powerful force in normalizing women’s presence in skateboarding. This surge of participation is also reflected in the work of organizations like Yeah Girl, G one are the days of skateboarding being a boys’ club. Skate culture is shifting, and from Olympic podiums to neighborhood sidewalks, more girls are picking up boards and making the space their own. Thanks to social media, local skate collectives, and high-profile athletes like Rayssa Leal and Leticia Bufoni, girls have more representation in the sport than ever before. Skate spaces that once felt intimidating and male-dominated are transforming into places where girls can grow their confidence and find community.
Through events, storytelling, and community-building efforts, Yeah Girl creates inclusive spaces for skaters to thrive both online and in real life. Aside from social media, the culture shift in skateboarding is also visible across the country at the local level. Nonprofit skateparks, local youth programs, and grassroots organizations are stepping up to provide inclusive, judgment-free spaces where girls can learn to skate and feel like they belong. Andy Weiss, the director of a nonprofit indoor skatepark, says, “Our mission is to build community and resilience through skateboarding, and that means making sure everyone feels welcome, including girls. We’ve been really intentional about creating an environment where girls are supported from day one.” The welcoming atmosphere is making a difference. Girls are showing up and getting involved. Weiss continues, “There’s been a clear rise in the number of girls getting into skateboarding. Part of that is due to better visibility—girls and women are showing up more in competitions, in media, and in brand partnerships … Culturally, the skate world is evolving to be more inclusive, and programs like ours
… are helping push that forward. When girls see that there’s space for them, they step into it and bring others with them.” A 2024 study from Nottingham Trent University highlighted the many benefits of skateboarding for women, including improved body confidence, increased self-esteem, and overall mental well- being. Caroline Gevers, a female skate instructor, says that the impact of girls’ skate programs goes beyond just learning cool tricks on a board. “Skateboarding not only boosts girls’ confidence, but also strengthens their sense of belonging in a space they care about. The impact is honestly amazing to witness … I’ve seen girls go from shy and uncertain to bold and confident in the span of a one-hour lesson. Skateboarding helps them build confidence in such a natural, empowering way. They fall, get back up, and realize they’re capable of more than they thought.” But despite the growing visibility and support, skateboarding can still present challenges for girls, especially in public skateparks. Weiss explains, “Public skateparks can be intimidating, especially when you’re the only girl there. It’s tough to feel like you belong when the environment feels overwhelmingly male, or when you don’t
see others who reflect your experience. We also hear a lot from female skaters about unsolicited advice. Even when it’s well-meaning, it can be frustrating to constantly have guys offer tips or guidance simply because you’re a girl. Most skaters appreciate help when they ask for it, but they don’t want to be treated like they need saving or hand- holding. That’s why it’s so important to create dedicated, judgment-free spaces where they can progress confidently on their own terms.” Gevers echoes the sentiment from her own experience, saying, “A lot of girls— including me—have dealt with the feeling that skateboarding is a male-dominated space where they might not belong. There’s often a fear of being judged, especially when you’re just starting out. I still remember the anxiety of showing up to skateparks alone when I first began skating and how daunting that was. Gaining that initial confidence in your skating ability can be a big hurdle, but that’s where supportive, inclusive environments … can really make a difference … Having friends, role models, and peers who uplift each other is such an important part of the skateboarding community!” Though there are many nonprofit skate programs across the country, the movement is far bigger than any single park or program. Girls are showing up in skateparks everywhere, making their mark in competitions, and starring in major brand campaigns. A defining moment came with the debut of women’s skateboarding at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021), where young stars like Rayssa Leal, Sky Brown, and Momiji Nishiya competed and sent the powerful message that skateboarding isn’t just for boys, and that age or gender don’t limit what you can achieve on a board. As the movement grows, so do opportunities. From local organizations to global stages like the Olympics, girls are carving out their place in the sport and inspiring others to follow. With every trick landed and every new rider who picks up a board, skateboarding’s future becomes brighter and more diverse.
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Gamedays with kids: Tips for Tackling Football Season as a Family BY MADISON VOORHIES
I t’s finally August, which means every (Southern) person’s favorite season is almost here: football season, of course! Whether you’re still riding hard for your college team on Saturdays or your Sundays are reserved for the NFL, one thing’s for sure: Gameday is a big deal. Tailgating, planning the perfect outfit, the roar of the crowd… It’s basically our version of the Met Gala! And that gameday excitement? It never really goes away. But here’s what does change: you’ve got kids now. So, how do you bring your little one to a football game and make sure everyone still has fun? No need to panic. We’ve got expert tips for you (it’s me, hi—I’m the expert. My credentials? LSU Class of 2023, thank you very much) on how to survive and thrive at football games with kids in tow.
20 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM season games kick off at night. It’ll still be humid, sure, but at least the sun won’t be Plan Ahead. Seriously. Southern gamedays can be brutally hot, especially in open stadiums. Tailgating, walking around campus, or just exploring the city can feel like a marathon if you’re not prepared. If you’re worried about the weather, try to go to a game in mid- to late-October when it’s (hopefully) cooled off. Can’t wait that long? Many early-
blazing down on you through halftime. Now, if you don’t live in the same city as the stadium, your experience might feel even more special, but also a lot more logistical. Pre- and post-game traffic can be a nightmare (I still have nightmares about Baton Rouge contraflow… If you know, you know). Plan to arrive early, especially if you want to tailgate or walk around campus. After the game, consider
booking a hotel within walking distance or even leaving a few minutes before the final whistle to beat the crowds. And while you’re at it, it’s a great idea to check the stadium’s website for family- friendly perks. Some stadiums (especially college ones) offer designated family sections, stroller-accessible seating, or even kid zones with shaded areas and simple activities to help keep little ones
entertained before or during the game. Not every venue has these, but it’s worth doing a little recon ahead of time! Choose Seats Strategically Sure, most of us choose tickets based on price or proximity to the field, but when you’ve got kids with you, it’s worth thinking a little more practically. Aisle seats near restrooms, concessions, and exits are a game-changer. You never know when a potty emergency will strike or when someone decides they’re starving right now. Keep in mind that most stadiums don’t allow outside food or drinks, so plan to get inside early enough to grab something before kickoff. Long lines can pop up fast. What to Pack (and What Not To) Most stadiums have strict bag policies, so be sure to check those guidelines in advance. Clear bags are usually required, and size limits are common. A few essentials to bring: • Snacks (if allowed) or money for concessions • Refillable water bottle (if stadium-approved) •Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for daytime games
and that games can be long. Prepping them ahead of time helps reduce meltdowns later. Safety Tips • Establish a meeting spot in case you get separated. • Use the buddy system if you’ve got multiple kids; Pair younger ones with older siblings or friends. • Stay aware in crowded areas and keep your child close. • Hydrate and protect against the sun with water, sunscreen, and hats. • Take breaks if your child is overwhelmed or overheated; There’s no shame in stepping away or calling it early. At the end of the day, no matter what you’re losing your voice screaming— Geaux Tigers, Who Dat, Roll Wave, or any other beloved battle cry—remember: gamedays are meant to be fun. With a little planning and a lot of patience, you can pass down the magic of football season to the next generation. And who knows? You might even get to watch most of the game.
•Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones for little ears
• Small toys, coloring books, or other quiet entertainment for gametime lulls • Wipes, hand sanitizer, and a change of clothes (just in case) Keep Them Comfortable & Involved Make it a point to take breaks when needed. Bathroom runs, a quiet walk away from the crowd, or just a moment in the shade can do wonders for a fussy kid. During the game, get them engaged: point out players, cheer together, and explain what’s happening on the field in a fun, simple way. Tailgating? Let them dance to the music, throw a football around, and be part of the camaraderie. Share your (age-appropriate) traditions and make it feel like something special they get to do with you. That being said, attention spans vary. There will be moments when they’re not into it, and that’s okay! That’s where your packed entertainment will come in clutch. Set Expectations Early Before you even leave the house, talk to your child about what the day will look like—especially if it’s their first time. Let them know it might be noisy, crowded,
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Your 2025 Guide to After-School Awesomeness BY MADISON VOORHIES
22 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM Creative Dance & Music Studio 716 Belle Meade Blvd., Gretna (504) 390-2552 creativedanceandmusic.com Dancer’s Pointe BASKETBALL Carrollton Boosters Riverview Fields and Cuccia Byrnes Playground execcb@gmail.com carrolltonboosters.org DANCE Cindy Ory Dance Studio 9029 Jefferson Hwy., River Ridge ARTS City Park Movement and Art 4300 Dumaine St., New Orleans (504) 390-7482 cityparkmovementandart.com New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, The 2800 Chartres St., New Orleans (504) 940-2787 nocca.com New Orleans Museum of Art 1 Collins C. Diboll Cir., City Park (504) 658-4100 noma.org Ogden Museum of Southern Art 925 Camp St., New Orleans (504) 539-9650 ogdenmuseum.org Posh Paint Pub 1640 Hickory Ave., Ste. G, Harahan (504) 835-4155 poshpaintpub.com YAYA Arts Center, The 3322 LaSalle St., New Orleans (504) 529-3306 yayainc.org BASEBALL & SOFTBALL Carrollton Boosters Riverview Fields and Cuccia Byrnes Playground execcb@gmail.com carrolltonboosters.org (504) 737-3345 orydance.com
2800 Chartres St., New Orleans (504) 940-2787 nocca.com New Orleans Dance Academy 5956 Magazine St., New Orleans (504) 899-3780 neworleansdancelessons.com Off Broadway Dance Studio 8125 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (504) 861-1749 obdsnola.com Studio School of Dance, The 3116 N. Arnoult Rd., Ste. N, Metairie (504) 941-7345 thestudionola.com DRAMA & THEATER Crescent City Lights Youth Theater (504) 598-3800 crescentcitylights.org Jefferson Performing Arts Society 6400 Airline Dr., Metairie (504) 885-2000 jpas.org Le Petit Theatre 616 St. Peter St., New Orleans (504) 522-2081 lepetittheatre.com Mahalia Jackson Theater 1419 Basin St., New Orleans (504) 287-0351 mahaliajacksontheater.com Orpheum Theatre 129 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans (504) 274-4871 orpheumnola.net New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, The 2800 Chartres St., New Orleans (504) 940-2787 nocca.com Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts 325 Minor St., Kenner (504) 461-9475 rivertowntheaters.com Saenger Theatre 1111 Canal St., New Orleans
5101 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie (504) 455-5975 6268 Vicksburg St., New Orleans (504) 265-8350 dancers-pointe.com Dancing Grounds 3705 St. Claude Ave., New Orleans (504) 535-5791 dancingrounds.org Encore Studio of Dance, Tumbling, Music & Theatre 1999 Hickory Ave., Ste. 102, Harahan (504) 294-3588 dancetumblemusic.com Giacobbe Academy of Dance 6925 Veterans Blvd., Metairie (504) 889-0940 giacobbeacademyofdance.com Lelia Haller Ballet Classique 4916 Canal St., New Orleans (504) 482-0038 lhballet.com Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts Covington School of Music: 1111 Village Walk Rd., Covington (985) 590-4545 Mandeville School of Music & Dance: 105 Campbell Ave., #3, Mandeville (985) 674-2992 River Ridge School of Music & Dance: 2020 Dickory Ave., #200, Harahan (504) 738-3050 laapa.com Mari Milnar Dance Academy 900 Terry Pkwy., Ste. 310 & 320, Terrytown marimilnardanceacademy.com New Orleans Ballet Association 935 Gravier St., Ste. 800, New Orleans (504) 522-0996 nobadance.com New Orleans Ballet Theatre 920 Terpsichore St., New Orleans (504) 826-0646 neworleansballettheatre.com New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, The (504) 362-3503 (504) 251-0600
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Chatternola 2901 Ridgelake Dr., Ste. 102, Metairie (504) 354-8078 chatternola.com Crane Rehab Center 3105 18th St., Metairie (Pediatric Facility) (504) 866-6990 3923 Bienville St., New Orleans (Center for Behavior, Language & Learning) (504) 593-6900 cranerehab.com Gulfsouth Autism Center New Orleans: 7252 Lakeshore Dr., New Orleans (504) 323-3450 Metairie: 3013 27th St., Metairie (504) 291-6200 Baton Rouge: 9063 Siegen Ln., Baton Rouge (225) 294-1600 Prairieville: 17520 Old Jefferson Hwy., Prairieville (225) 300-6710 Covington: 2000 Covington Ctr., Covington (985) 237-1921 gulfsouthautismcenter.com Kim4Kids 4317 El Dorado St., Metairie (504) 517-5437 kim4kidsnola.com NOLA Learning Support 8131 Oak St., Ste. 100, New Orleans nolaslp504@gmail.com nolalearningsupport.com Therapeutic Learning Center 3329 Metairie Rd., Metairie 524 Elmwood Park Blvd., Ste. 120, New Orleans (504) 565-7300 tlcnola.com LACROSSE Carrollton Boosters Riverview Fields and Cuccia Byrnes Playground execcb@gmail.com carrolltonboosters.org Louisiana Lacrosse Academy Jefferson Parish info@louisianalacrosseacademy.com louisianalacrosseacademy.com
girls-flag GYMNASTICS & CHEERLEADING
24 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM youth-programs NORDC Football (504) 658-3052 nordc.org/sports/football Saints Girls High School Flag Football neworleanssaints.com/community/ (504) 287-0351 saengernola.com EDUCATION: LANGUAGE CLASSES Alliance Française de La Nouvelle-Orléans 1519 Jackson Ave., New Orleans (504) 568-0770 af-neworleans.org/learn-french/for- children La Escuelita Marigny, New Orleans andrea@laescuelitaneworleans.com laescuelitaneworleans.com New Orleans Sign Language Services, LLC (504) 722-2967 (Call/Text) (504) 273-1152 (Videophone) neworleanssignlanguageservices.com Second Language Educational Academy 10715 Morrison Rd., New Orleans (504) 241-1123 slea-nola.org ¡Vamonos NOLA! 600 Eleonore St., New Orleans (504) 495-2345 facebook.com/VamonosNola EDUCATION: TUTORING & EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Kumon Math & Reading Centers Gretna, Marrero, Metairie, & New Orleans kumon.com R.E.A.D. (Reading Enrichment and Development) New Orleans 921 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans (504) 495-0233 readnola.com FOOTBALL Carrollton Boosters Riverview Fields and Cuccia Byrnes Playground execcb@gmail.com carrolltonboosters.org NFL Flag Football St. Charles Parish Parks and Recreation (985) 783-5090 neworleanssaints.com/community/nfl-
All Star Gymnastics 2073 Bonn St., Harvey (504) 328-3838 allstargymnola.com Elmwood Gymnastics Academy 700 Elmwood Park Blvd., Ste. C, Harahan (504) 733-4496 ochsner.org/locations/elmwood- gymnastics-academy Empire Gymnastics Academy 4925 Jefferson Hwy., Ste. G, Jefferson (504) 734-0644 empiregymnastics.net NOLA Gymnastics | I Flip Uptown 1725 Dufossat St., New Orleans nolagymnastics@gmail.com iflipuptown.com Westbank Gymnastics (504) 368-3547 865 Gretna Blvd., Gretna westbankgymnastics.com GOLF First Tee - Greater New Orleans 3201 General De Gaulle Dr., New Orleans (504) 304-3309 firstteenola.org Lakewood Golf Club 4801 General De Gaulle Dr., New Orleans (504) 373-5926, ext. 4 lakewoodgolf.com HORSEBACK RIDING Cascade Stables 700 East Dr., New Orleans, Audubon Park (504) 891-2246 cascadestables.net Equest Farm 1001 Filmore Ave., New Orleans
(504) 483-9398 equestfarm.com Pony Tales 156 Bertucci Ln., St. Rose (504) 469-0148 ponytalesbirthdays.com Splendor Farms 27329 Mill Creek Rd., Bush (985) 630-8960 splendorfarms.com INCLUSIVE NEEDS/ THERAPY
MARTIAL ARTS Hayashi Judo School 4521 Magazine St., New Orleans (504) 319-9409 nolajudo.com
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Youth Run Nola 4035 Washington Ave., New Orleans info@youthrunnola.org youthrunnola.org SCIENCE/STEAM ENRICHMENT Electric Girls 2045 Lakeshore Dr., Ste. 353, New Orleans contact@electricgirls.org electricgirls.org Greater New Orleans STEM Initiative UNO TRAC Center, Ste. 227 info@gnostem.org gnostem.org Louisiana Children’s Museum 15 Henry Thomas Dr., New Orleans (504) 523-1357 lcm.org NOLA Kidsground 5700 Citrus Blvd., Ste. D, New Orleans (504) 354-9528 nolakidsground.com STEM NOLA 4910 Drexel Dr., New Orleans Byrnes Playground execcb@gmail.com carrolltonboosters.org FC New Orleans Youth Soccer Club (504) 415-7629 fcnola.com Football ‘N’ America Covington, Mandeville, New Orleans, and Slidell (504) 616-8833 playfna.com (504) 391-0730 stemnola.com SOCCER Carrollton Boosters Riverview Fields and Cuccia
Louisiana Karate Association 706 Phosphor Ave., Ste. C, Metairie (504) 835-6825 lkakarate.com Martial Arts Institute of Louisiana (Master Chris Benoit) 7575 Westbank Expy., Marrero (504) 328-4000 facebook.com/Martial.Arts.Institute MOVE! Best Kids 4714 Paris Ave., New Orleans (504) 376-7009 movebestkids.com New Orleans Shotokan Academy (NOSA) 3900 General Taylor St., New Orleans (504) 432-8667 nosakarate.com New Orleans Karate Club 8611 Hwy. 23, Ste. 2C, Belle Chasse (504) 391-7200 neworleanskarate.net NOLA Aikido 3909 Bienville St., New Orleans
New Orleans (504) 861-1801 gnoyo.org Lafargue Music School 1828 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie (504) 831-3008 lafarguepianos.com Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts Covington School of Music: 1111 Village Walk Rd., Covington (985) 590-4545 Mandeville School of Music & Dance: 105 Campbell Ave., #3, Mandeville (985) 674-2992 River Ridge School of Music & Dance: 2020 Dickory Ave., #200, Harahan (504) 738-3050 laapa.com Love’s Music Therapy 3380 State Street Dr., New Orleans (504) 281-8968 lovesmusictherapy.com Loyola Preparatory Arts Program 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (504) 865-3627 cmm.loyno.edu/music-theatre- professions/preparatory-arts New Orleans Children’s Chorus 5580 Canal Blvd., Ste. A, New Orleans (504) 482-2883
(504) 208-4861 nolaaikido.com Shogun Martial Arts 5021 Fairfield St., Metairie (504) 982-1371 shogunnola.com
neworleanschildrenschorus.org Octave School of Music, The 2219 Athania Pkwy., Metairie (504) 218-4167 theoctaveschool.com
Tiger Rock Martial Arts International 3828 Veterans Blvd., Ste. E, Metairie (504) 455-9699 1813 Veterans Blvd., Ste. A, Metairie (504) 831-1110 tigerrockmartialarts.com Yonsei Martial Arts Academy 2530 Florida Ave., Kenner (504) 465-5353
School of Rock Metairie/New Orleans 1907 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie (504) 618-7625 schoolofrock.com/locations/metairie Upbeat Academy 715 Girod St., Ste. 100, New Orleans (504) 722-8762 upbeatacademy.org RUNNING Carrollton Boosters Riverview Fields and Cuccia
yonsei.us MUSIC
Louisiana Fire Juniors 1918 18th St., Kenner (504) 465-8224 lafiresoccer.com NORDC Soccer (504) 435-9552 nordc.org/sports/soccer Soccer Shots (504) 441-9216 soccershots.org/neworleans SPORTS FACILITIES Junction Place Sportsplex
Beckwith Guitar Systems 2515 Williams Blvd., Kenner, inside C&M Music Center
(504) 559-5229 beguitarsys.com
Byrnes Playground execcb@gmail.com carrolltonboosters.org Girls on the Run New Orleans 5500 Prytania St., Ste. 528, New Orleans (504) 272-7786 gotrnola.org
26 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM carlasmusikgarten.com Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra 7100 St. Charles Ave., Ste. 207, Carla’s Musikgarten New Orleans 4600 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (St. George’s Episcopal Church Rectory) (504) 717-5044
(504) 895-1042 audubonnatureinstitute.org/tennis City Park Tennis Center 5900 Marconi Dr., New Orleans (504) 483-9422 neworleanscitypark.org/visit-city-park/ tennis New Orleans Youth Tennis noyt@noyt.org noyt.tennis Premiere Tennis Nola 5900 Marconi Dr., New Orleans (504) 919-5599 premiertennisnola.com YOGA City Park Movement and Art 4300 Dumaine St., New Orleans (504) 390-7482 cityparkmovementandart.com Kidding Around Yoga with Bella New Orleans (504) 909-888 kiddingaroundyoga.com/licensee/bella
5620 Crawford Ave., Harahan (504) 356-1812 junctionplacesportsplex.com Ochsner Fitness Center KIDSPORTS 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Harahan (504) 842-9544 (504) 733-1200 ochsnerfitness.com/kidsports YMCA of Greater New Orleans Belle Chasse: 8101 Hwy. 23, Belle Chasse, (504) 392-9622 East Jefferson: 6691 Riverside Dr., Metairie (504) 888-9622 West St. Tammany: 71256 Francis Rd., Covington (985) 893-9622 Educational Services (YES!): New Orleans Public Library: 219 Loyola Ave., New Orleans (504) 596-3842 Buras: 36342 Hwy. 11, Buras (504) 934-3775 Port Sulfur: 278 Civic Dr., Port Sulfur (504) 934-3690 ymcaneworleans.org/locations SWIMMING Harry’s Dive Shop- Swim Smart
4709 Airline Dr., Metairie (504) 909-2220 swim-smart.com Little Fins Swim Academy 325 Colonial Club Dr., Harahan (504) 416-0431 littlefinsnola.com Love Swimming 5221 S. Front St., New Orleans (504) 891-4662 loveswimming.com Ochsner Fitness Center Aquatics 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Ste. 1200, Harahan (504) 733-1200 (504) 842-9544 ochsnerfitness.com/kidsports/kids- aquatics-1 South Louisiana Swim Team (504) 256-6554 slst-seahorses.captyn.com TENNIS Abrie du Plooy Tennis Academy (504) 508-1322 futuretennis.com Audubon Park Tennis 6320 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans
Lolo’s Youth Yoga + Art Studio 6117 Magazine St., New Orleans
(415) 786-3317 lolosstudio.com
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Robotics: Tinkering Towards Tomorrow By Amanda Ciani
30 AUGUST 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM breath and embrace the “Why” and “How” phase. In fact, encourage it! Dig into STEM discoveries with your child! One such STEM activity that will enrich a child’s mind and expand their way of Inquisitive children who take things apart just to figure out how they work are dabbling in reverse engineering. Brick enthusiast kids who spend hours making block buildings and elaborate cities could very well have a future career as a civil engineer! Parents, take a deep M otivated with a curious mind, a toddler looks up at their tired grown-up and once again, prompts their parent, “Why?” After a sigh from their parent and a brief explanation of why, the little one nervously squeaks out a, “But how come?” It is true—the constant question toddler phase is a little bit trying. But curiosity is a beautiful thing that not only helps brain connections grow but also breeds a lifelong love of learning.
thinking while having tons of fun is the growing world of robotics. All About Robots & Robotics! In case your curious child asks, let’s get some history out of the way. The first digitally programmable robot, Unimate, was invented in the 1950s by George C. Devol, an inventor from Louisville, KY. Since then, robots have been used as industrial tools to lift heavy things, twist levers and so much more. The robot craze grew as Robert the Robot was sold as a children’s toy in a 1954 Sears catalog. However, millennial parents may remember asking their parents for the first AI-enabled robotic toy in 1998: Furby! Now robots have even infiltrated the world of chores with the Roomba vacuum cleaner’s debut in 2002. The awe and wonder of watching a robot whir about captured the attention of many. Organized robotics competitions started in the 1970s–80s and the popular
FIRST robotics team was founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen. Today, FIRST robotics competitions are still going strong in schools across the USA. Many additional robotics organizations and competitions have also sprung up around the world, including The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, VEX Robotics, and more. Curious kiddos who are still a little too young to join an official robotics club don’t have to miss out on learning through STEM play! Several subscription boxes are available, which offer kids a chance to tinker with scientific principles to make insightful discoveries. Three such subscription boxes are: KiwiCo Start them on science young! This subscription box brand serves newborns through age 100 with eight different Starting Out Small with a Subscription Box
a robotics team to “contact local schools, libraries or youth organizations that may have a team in place” and to do a simple online search for FIRST teams near (my town). Elementary and middle schoolers can try out the LEGO League Teams, middle schoolers can take on the Tech Challenge Team, and finally, grades 9–12 can join or start a Robotics Competition Team. Those who wish to start their own team can do so with the help of a variety of resources available at firstinspires.org/ start-a-team. The Many Benefits of Robotics Learning while having fun is probably the top reason why curious kids should give robotics a try. Beyond that, there are a myriad of reasons how robotics can positively impact young learners, including building: Creativity: The sky is the limit when it comes to robotics. From choosing the design to the tasks it will complete, there is a lot of room for thinking outside the box when it comes to robotics. Problem-Solving Skills: Science is all about trial and error. When something goes wrong, the issue has to be identified and analyzed before finding a solution. Critical Thinking Skills: ‘Why?’ and ‘How?’ are questions often asked in
crate options available. KiwiCo also has over 10 robot kits available for individual purchase, starting as low as $24! Visit kiwico.com for more information. CrunchLabs Little ones can learn about different simple machines and STEM principles with the Build Box ($27.45 per box with an annual plan). It ships monthly and is perfect for kids ages 8–13. Teens and adults would be best suited for the Hack Pack ($66.65 per box with an annual plan); it ships every 2 months and has multiple bots featured in the first few boxes! Learn more at crunchlabs.com STEM Discovery Boxes Each box includes three experiments that focus on STEM learning for youngsters. Topics covered include electronics, chemistry, hydraulics, physics, engineering, astronomy, and robotics. Subscription levels vary from 1 month ($30), 3 months ($28 per box/$84 total), 6 months ($27 per box/$162 total) or annual ($25 per box/ $300 total). Investigate past projects by heading to stemdiscoveryboxes.com School Aged Roboticists FIRST recommends those looking to join
robotics, and the students are doing the answering! Making hypotheses and predicting outcomes is a big part of robotics. Teamwork: Each member of a robotics team has a unique skill set, making collaboration a key to success. Teammates must communicate and truly work together for their robot to function properly. Confidence: Every STEM project will have its ups and downs. Overcoming the downs and struggling through it will make the ups that much more of a victory. Knowing that hard work pays off instills resilience and perseverance in students— they feel well-deserved pride! So… why try out robotics? This extracurricular or hobby encourages out-of-the-box thinking in kids. Encouraging naturally curious kids to continue asking “Why?” and “How come?” will yield adults who are creative problem solvers who think critically and work together. Confident adults will succeed in any career field they choose, STEM or not. So, never stop asking ‘Why’—stay curious and keep learning, readers; there is a pretty amazing world out there to discover.
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