NOLA 2025
nola family Parent Fearlessly MARCH 2025
Tiny Travelers, Big Adventures
Breaking the Silence on Teen Suicide
The College Countdown Series: Part 1
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@nolafamily.com
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 MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT Sales Manager KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ MARTINE MELANCON RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives MADDIE RIFE Sales Manager Assistant ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator MAKAYLEE SECREST Administrative Assistant SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager SELIA ABSHIRE Client Success Specialist EMMY LOGAN Accounting Coordinator CONTACT US: editorial@ frg.inc CORPORATE OFFICE: 3636 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Ste. 540 Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (504) 866-0555 DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of
INSIDE THE 2025 TULANE BOOK FESTIVAL Explore the festival’s panels, engaging activities for families, and its vital role in shaping the city’s literary scene. THE BEST ST. PATRICK’S DAY EVENTS IN NEW ORLEANS Get ready for a month of festive parades, lively block parties, and Irish-inspired fun as New Orleans keeps the celebration going with unforgettable St.
SUPER SUNDAY: A DAY OF CULTURE, COMMUNITY, AND COLOR Learn more about how this grassroots event honors African- American heritage through music, unity, and creativity. WHAT TO DO WITH ALL YOUR MARDI GRAS THROWS Wondering what to do with all your leftover Mardi Gras throws? From recycling and donating to saving beads for school parades, here are some practical ideas for keeping the spirit of Mardi Gras alive long after the festivities are over.
2024
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Patrick’s Day events throughout March!
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MARCH 2025 • ISSUE 166
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nola family CONTENTS MARCH 2025
14
PHOTO BY JILLIAN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
FEATURES
16
18
20
22 Maximizing Parent-Teacher Conferences
How to Build a Strong College Application
FAFSA: How to Finance College
Traveling Abroad with Your Family
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 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.
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from the publisher
Crib to College: A Parental Survival Guide
R aising kids is like assembling IKEA furniture without instructions—you’re just hoping it turns out functional in the end. And if you think the diaper stage is hard, just wait until you hit the college prep years. Honestly, I’d take late- night diaper changes over late-night college application stress any day. The real madness began freshman year of high school. Apparently, kids these days have to build a “college resume”— as if surviving puberty isn’t enough. Clubs, volunteer hours, leadership roles—who knew getting into college was like applying for a CEO position? When I applied, my biggest concern was remembering to mail the application on time. And let’s not even talk about choosing a major. I was still deciding between Taco Bell and McDonald’s for dinner, let alone my life’s career path. But my daughter? She’s had it figured out since day one. Meanwhile, I’m over here trying to decipher FAFSA forms like I’m hacking into the Pentagon. Between dual enrollment, SATs,
ACTs, financial aid, and endless campus visits, prepping for college is practically a full-time job.
That’s why we’re kicking off a new series to help parents navigate this glorious chaos. Sure, schools have college counselors, but guess what? Parents are often left out of those meetings, which means your teenager—who once thought eating glue was a good idea—is now making major life decisions solo. Starting the conversation before high school helps kids build their academic “street cred” early and avoid taking random electives that won’t help them land a job (looking at you, Underwater Basket Weaving). Am I emotionally ready for my daughter to head off to college? Absolutely not. Will knowing she’ll be local for her first four years help soften the blow? Maybe a little. In the meantime, I still have my boys to prep for high school, so I’ll be in the trenches for a while. And when that first day of college comes? I’ll be the mom ugly crying in the parking lot—while secretly Googling “How to cope with an empty nest.”
Publisher
Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you'd like to see in future issues.
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W ‘ hether your family has plans to travel abroad this year or are simply dreaming of far away places for now, the New Orleans Public Library has books for any reader bitten by the Travel Bug.
from the bookshelf
CHILDREN Young readers can travel across the globe—across busy highways and crowded airports, with strollers and toys— to return home and reunite with Mama in Goodbye Hello: A Going Home Travel Adventure by Angela H. Dale and Daniel Wiseman. Featuring travel by car and plane across the world, this fast and fun picture book is a great introduction to the many different legs of international travel for the smallest members of your family. From the New York Times bestselling team behind Parker Looks Up , comes an early-reader adventure with Parker Takes a Trip , by Parker Curry, Jessica Curry, Brittany Jackson, and Tajae Keith. Follow along as Parker and her family fly to Portugal to visit her grandparents, and take in new sights, new food, and new modes of travel. MIDDLE GRADE In his feel-good coming-of-age memoir, best-selling author and Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat shares his life-
changing middle school trip to Europe during which he experiences a series of firsts, including first love. A First Time for Everything is a funny, heartwarming, and poignant celebration of a time that is universally challenging for many of us, but also life-changing as well. Lonely Planet Kids’ The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World is sure to inspire the travel- hungry kid in your life. Readers go on a thrill-packed journey across our world, continent by continent. Packed with thousands of facts about everything from amazing animals and super sights to fun festivals and fabulous food, it’s the ultimate guide to all the incredible—and incredibly diverse—places that make up our planet! TEEN A Bánh Mì For Two by Trinity Nguyen follows as a Vietnamese American college student, Viv, embarks on a secret study-abroad semester in Vietnam. Along the way, she meets Lan, the girl behind her favorite food blog, and the two form an undeniable connection while
unraveling their families’ histories and eating all the street food in Sài Gòn. Ravynn K. Stringfield’s Love Requires Chocolate is a sweet YA romance novel sure to satisfy the budding Francophile in your family. Ready to have an epic semester abroad in Paris, theater nerd Whitney Curry anticipates a grand adventure but instead struggles with schoolwork, homesickness, and mastering the French language until her cute tutor teaches her lessons about the real Paris—and love. For families looking to travel in their own city, the Library’s Culture Pass Program allows Orleans Parish residents and Library cardholders to visit a variety of attractions across the city for free, including The Audubon Nature Institute (the zoo, aquarium, and insectarium!), the National WWII Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, Historic BK House & Gardens, and more. For details and to reserve a pass, visit culturepass.nolalibrary.org.
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
RAIN WILL BRING FLOWERS BY MADISON VOORHIES
12 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM The foundation has already reached Prevention Through Education One of the foundation’s primary goals is to educate and empower young people to recognize warning signs in their peers. Through a partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the organization delivers mental health education programs in junior high and high schools. The program, titled “It’s Real: Teens and Mental Health,” teaches students how to identify warning signs in friends and encourages them to speak up. “We’re not asking them to be mental health professionals,” Jordan explains. “We’re training them to pick up on warning signs from their peers, to trust their gut, and if one of their peers is struggling, to bring that to the attention of a trusted adult.” I n April 2023, Jordan and Lisa Tabor experienced the unimaginable—the loss of their 15-year-old son, Owen, to suicide. A beloved son, friend, and athlete, Owen was a sophomore at St. Michael High School in Baton Rouge, where he excelled both academically and athletically. His death left a community in mourning and his parents with a profound mission: to turn their grief into action. Just 15 days after Owen’s passing, they founded the Rain Will Bring Flowers Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to youth suicide prevention through awareness, education, and support. ` Now, less than two years later, the foundation is making a significant impact across Louisiana, including New Orleans, with its Prevention in Every Parish initiative.
a suicide attempt survivor who now spreads a message of resilience and hope. Additionally, the foundation is launching an endowment to fund scholarships for high school seniors pursuing careers in behavioral health. By funding scholarships for students pursuing careers in behavioral health, the foundation hopes to build a stronger network of mental health professionals equipped to support young people in crisis.
62,000 students, parents, and faculty across 19 Louisiana parishes, with the goal of training 100,000 individuals. Their efforts are already making a difference, as Jordan recalls receiving feedback from two schools that credited the program with saving students’ lives. Expanding Impact As the foundation expands its reach into New Orleans, Jordan stresses the importance of local involvement. He encourages parents, educators, and community members to help introduce the foundation’s programs into more schools. Expanding access to these resources, he explains, is one of the most effective ways to make a difference. In addition to school-based education, Rain Will Bring Flowers is collaborating with high-profile figures and organizations to further its mission. Their partnership with the Joe Burrow Foundation will provide $1,000 grants to schools for student-led mental health awareness programs in honor of World Teen Mental Health Day on March 2. They’re also working to modernize mental health screening tools in schools, developing an app that allows students to track their mental health and access crisis intervention resources in real time. Community Events and Scholarships The foundation hosts several key events throughout the year, including “Planting Seeds of Hope,” a panel discussion that took place in February at LSU’s Pete Maravich Assembly Center. The event featured former LSU and NFL star Ryan Clark alongside student-athletes and motivational speaker Emma Benoit,
Their flagship fundraiser, the “Flowers Bloom Hope” gala, will take place on April 12, 2025, providing essential
financial support for the foundation’s initiatives. How You Can Help
For New Orleans residents looking to get involved, Jordan encourages direct action: Introduce the foundation to your child’s school to expand the Prevention in Every Parish program. Volunteer to assist with training or operational needs. Make a donation to support outreach and education efforts. Above all, Jordan and Lisa’s message is clear: no family should have to endure the pain they have faced. “If a kid like Owen could fall victim to suicide,” Jordan says, “I really believe that all of our kids are at risk. We are dedicating the rest of our lives to [doing] our best to try and prevent another family [from having] to walk in our shoes.”
To learn more or get involved, visit RainWillBringFlowers.org.
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mom about town
LAUREN GUSANDERS BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY JILLIAN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY L auren Gusanders didn’t just move to New Orleans—she kept coming back. Raised in Michigan but drawn to the city’s energy, she first landed here 15 years ago and never really let go. A long-distance romance with her now- husband, John, eventually turned into full-time roots, and today, she juggles life as a business owner, marketing pro, and mom to a little boy already fluent in Mardi Gras. Whether she’s organizing events, building brands, or chasing after her little one, Lauren embraces every bit of Nola life with open arms and a full calendar.
Husband: Jonathan Gusanders Child: Lincoln, 15 months Occupations: Owner of a marketing & events agency, Wander On @We.Wander.On Hobbies: Festival going—love seeing shows; putting together Mardi Gras Day costumes; and travel, travel, travel!
14 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE YOUR CAREER? WHAT’S YOUR TYPICAL DAY LIKE? LAUREN: Running your own business— no day is exactly the same. But, our son usually wakes us up around seven/seven- thirty, we let the dogs out, get [Lincoln] fed, and it usually includes some Ms. Rachel playing in the background. Sometimes I’m out in the market having meetings, networking in New Orleans; sometimes I’m just at home working. I also travel sometimes for my job if I book events outside of the city. Every day is a little different, but we do have a nanny that comes to our house four times a week, [which] helps me get some [work] done.
LAUREN: When I found out I was pregnant with Lincoln, I actually lost my job within 48 hours—my corporate job. There were a lot of ups and downs in what I was going to do. I ended up going back into the corporate world for a bit, working for an actual venue within New Orleans (It’s no longer there—Tin Roof—on Bourbon Street) but I ran all their events. Honestly, I was just so sick of having to conform my schedule for someone else—especially with having a child. My priorities shifted so much. I’d been in the hospitality business my whole career, and I was helping a lot of businesses [with] their social media, marketing, and their events. People started offering to pay me. I started running social media for a large restaurant group down in the Quarter, and I started working as a consultant with various tourism, bar, and
restaurant [groups] around the city. Our focus really is in the tourist/restaurant world, because that’s the world we come from. I just started building it [up], and for the past year, I’ve been working on gaining more clients and working with smaller, local agencies. When you own your own business, you work even harder because there’s no “checkboxes” of X, Y, and Z to hit this sales goal. There’s always something you could be working on. WHAT ARE THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF MOTHERHOOD? LAUREN: I really try on my Instagram— when I’m feeling vulnerable—to be really open about the highs and lows of being pregnant, motherhood, and growing. People don’t talk about the lows as much as they talk about the highs.
One thing: as you evolve as an adult—in general—you see friendships go in and out depending on what phase [of life] you are in. When you have a kid, the people that show up for you become so much more apparent—which is the high— because there’s people that you weren’t expecting. Finding your tribe can be challenging. One of my highest moments is traveling with our son. My goal for him was 12 flights within 12 months. He’s been to Jamaica (for his first birthday), New York, Seattle, Michigan, Chicago, New Orleans, Florida, Hilton Head, and Austin (his first trip). That has been incredible, and hopefully, we can keep up with it as he starts remembering. I think with everything there are ups and downs, but for the most part, it’s beautiful. I love how much I’ve learned in a year and a half. WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO PASS ON TO YOUR CHILD? LAUREN: Before John and I moved back to New Orleans, we lived in an RV for two years traveling the country (hence our Instagram: @we.wander.on). Travel is so important to us—whether it’s being a tourist in your own city and learning
the history or understanding why things are the way they are, or traveling to new places and countries to expand your education, your culture views, and your values. Traveling makes you wiser and makes you understand the world. As long as we can afford it, we’ll continue doing it, and I hope [Lincoln] loves travel as much as we do. HOW DO YOU PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE? LAUREN: I always carve a few hours out of the week—whether I mean to or not—to do things that are just for me. My lash extensions—I get those done every few weeks—[I get] my nails done, or [I go] for a walk by myself. One thing that I think is really important is staying in tune with your own mental health. I do go to therapy once a week; I’m not ashamed of that whatsoever. There’s a stigma around mental health, and there shouldn’t be. Every week I sit down with my therapist for one hour, and that’s a time to talk about myself, how I can improve myself, and [how I can] be more self-aware, because when you raise a family and you have a child, there are a lot of things in the back of your ear, like how you should be doing better, or
you’re doing something wrong, or you’re not prioritizing this. IF YOU COULD GIVE NEW PARENTS ONE TIP, WHAT WOULD IT BE? LAUREN: You can continue doing the things that you love if you want to continue doing them. They’re not going to be quite the same as they used to be, and things might be a little bit more challenging. You just have to find the right people to surround yourself with and support you in that journey. Don’t lose yourself in being a mother. Quick Q’s Favorite vacation with Lincoln… Fire Island, NY Dream vacation spot… Ireland Favorite girls night out… Hitting happy hour Favorite binge-watches… Your Honor, Shrinking, or Below Deck Favorite treat… cookie dough Something that makes you laugh… Lincoln’s laughs
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How to Build a Strong College Application BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY
16 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM can shape a compelling application. Here’’s how to craft an application that A pplying to college these days isn’t just about grades and test scores—it’s about telling your story. Colleges and universities want to see who you are beyond the transcript: your passions, leadership, and impact. The good news? You don’t have to be class president or win a national award to stand out. What truly matters is authenticity and commitment. Whether you’’re an athlete, artist, entrepreneur, or community volunteer, your experiences
gets noticed. 1. Build a Well-Rounded Resume Think of your resume as a snapshot of your achievements, skills, and experiences. Start by listing academic accomplishments, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and any special recognitions. Keep it clear, concise, and organized—admissions officers should be able to quickly grasp what makes you unique. Key components of a strong resume include:
• Academic achievements: GPA, test scores, honors classes, AP/IB courses • Leadership roles: team captain, club president, student council member, etc. • Extracurricular activities: sports, music, theater, debate, robotics, etc. • Volunteer work: community service, local charities, advocacy projects • Work experience: internships, part-time jobs, family business involvement. 2. The Power of Extracurricular Activities Colleges love to see students who
pursue their passions outside the classroom. Quality over quantity is key—it’s better to be deeply involved in a few meaningful activities rather than spreading yourself too thin. Tips for making extracurriculars stand out: • Stick with activities you genuinely enjoy and stay committed to them. • Take on leadership roles to show initiative and responsibility. • Aim for impact—whether it’s starting a club, organizing an event, or mentoring others. • Consider unique hobbies or interests that make you stand out (e.g., coding, entrepreneurship, podcasting) 3. The Importance of Volunteering Volunteering is another fantastic way to demonstrate compassion, leadership, and a sense of responsibility. Colleges appreciate applicants who contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. How to make volunteering count: • Choose a cause that resonates with you: education, environmental efforts, animal welfare, etc. • Stay involved over time rather than one- off experiences.
• Connect your volunteer work to your future goals. For example, if you want to study medicine, volunteering at a hospital is a great choice. • Document your experiences and the impact you’ve made. 4. Letters of Recommendation Matter Strong recommendation letters from teachers, coaches, or mentors can provide valuable insight into your character and work ethic. How to get great recommendations: • Build strong relationships with teachers and mentors early on. • Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak about your strengths. • Give them plenty of time to write thoughtful letters. This, again, is why it’s good to start building those relationships sooner rather than later. • Provide them with details about your accomplishments to make their job easier. Maybe even provide them with a copy of your resume. 5. Writing a Compelling College Essay Your personal statement is your chance to shine. This allows you to tell your story, share your passions, and explain what makes you unique. While not mandatory
for all college applications, many still provide students with the option to submit one. Essay tips: • Choose a topic that reflects who you are, not what you think colleges want to hear. • Be authentic, personal, and specific. Show, don’t just tell—use examples and anecdotes. • Edit and revise multiple times, and ask for feedback from teachers or mentors. 6. Showcasing Your Unique Personality Colleges want students who will contribute to their campus culture. Whether through an interview, additional essays, or optional portfolio submissions, make sure your application highlights what makes you special. The key to a strong college application is preparation and authenticity. Start early, stay engaged, and focus on what genuinely excites you. With the right mix of academics, extracurriculars, and personal insight, you won’t just apply to college—you’ll make a lasting impression for a brighter future.
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FAFSA: How to Finance College
18 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM (FAFSA) is a critical tool for students seeking financial assistance for college. The cost of higher education can be extremely discouraging. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of college has risen 141 percent over the last 20 years and continues to increase each year. At first glance (and maybe second and third), financing college seems impossible. But by taking time to understand the options available and taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the financial strain on your family. What is FAFSA? The Federal Application for Student Aid BY SANONNA AL TAWEEL PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM Y ’ our teen has done the work: bulking up college applications with extracurricular activities, and narrowed down their top choice from various university pros and cons lists. Now comes the fun part: Figuring out finances for the next four years of their education. Luckily, there’s a simple way to maximize financial opportunities for your child’s college education. It’s called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). They’ve aced their classes, spent every moment of their free time
It is a form used by the U.S. Department of Education to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study programs, and loans. How Does FAFSA Work? FAFSA is the first step in unlocking federal financial aid. By submitting this form, students provide information about their family’s financial situation, including income, household size, and other relevant data. Based on this information, the government determines a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This amount is how much the government expects the student and/or their family to contribute to the cost of tuition. FAFSA eligibility also unlocks a variety of financial aid opportunities. • Grants: These are typically need-based and do not need to be repaid. The Pell Grant is one of the most well-known, aimed at students from low-income families. • Work-study: This program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for school-related expenses. • Loans: There are two kinds of federal student loans. 1. Subsidized loans: These loans are based on financial need, and the government pays the interest while you’re in school. 2. Unsubsidized loans: These are
not need-based, and the borrower is responsible for the entirety of the accrued interest. Who Can Apply for FAFSA? Every student can (and should!) apply for FAFSA. A common misconception is that only students from low-income families should apply for FAFSA. In reality, the FAFSA is available to almost all students regardless of their family’s income level. Even students whose families may not qualify for large amounts of aid may still be eligible for loans or other assistance. There are two types of students that can apply for FAFSA: • Dependent students: These students are typically under 24 years old and rely on their parents for financial support. In these cases, the parents’ financial information is required to complete the application. • Independent students: These students are 24 years or older, married, a veteran, or have dependents of their own. These students only need to provide their own financial information. When and How to Apply The FAFSA opens each year on October 1. It’s important to apply as early as possible, as some financial aid programs are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Deadlines vary by state and school, but the federal deadline is typically in June.
You can complete the FAFSA online at the official website, fafsa.gov. You’ll need to create an account to sign in and complete the form. The process will require you to provide financial details from tax returns and other documents like your social security card. After Submitting Once the FAFSA is submitted, colleges use the information to determine how much aid the student qualifies for and create an award letter. This award letter will detail any grants, loans, or work- study opportunities the student has been offered. Common FAFSA Mistakes to Avoid • Missing deadlines: Missing the FAFSA submission deadline can mean missing out on crucial financial aid opportunities. • Incorrect or incomplete information: Always double-check the form for financial data and personal details to avoid mistakes that could delay processing. • Omitting parental financial information: As a dependent student, failing to include parents’ financial information can cause the application to be rejected. • Not reapplying every year: FAFSA is not a one-time process. The form must be submitted every year to continue receiving financial aid. Additional Funding Beyond FAFSA FAFSA is not the only way to finance college. There are multiple forms of financial assistance available, including: • Scholarships: Many private organizations, schools, and community groups offer scholarships that do not need to be repaid. • State-based programs: State-based programs: Some states offer additional financial aid opportunities for residents, such as grants or loan forgiveness programs. For example, the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance has a list of college assistance programs available at mylosfa.la.gov. • Private loans: Though not an ideal option due to high interest rates, there are many private loans available to students. The FAFSA is a powerful tool in unlocking financial aid for your student. Consider it the magic key to college financing. Remember, the process may seem daunting at first, but the financial opportunities are worth the effort.
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Traveling Abroad with Your Family
BY JULIANNA STEEN
20 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM One of the most ideal aspects of European travel is the walkability of cities… but luggage wheels and cobblestone roads don’t go well together. Not to mention trying to pull your heavy suitcase up hills and/or stairs P lanning a trip to the grocery international adventure with your entire family in tow? Talk about overwhelming (and perhaps slightly terrifying!). I won’t lie—it is a large endeavor to take on, but the blessings that come from travel far outweigh the work you put in it. Here are some practical tips and things to consider as you plan. Consider Your Family’s Priorities Sit down and talk with your spouse and your kids about where they want to go and what they want to do. Travel advisor Ashley Homan puts it this way: “If you have kids with different interests, give kids choices… so each member feels like they have a say in what they do.” Make sure there’s something in the itinerary that interests everyone. Not only will it make the trip more fun, it will help clarify how you should allocate your time and planning. Pack Light store with kids can be stressful, so the concept of organizing an and planning.
to your accommodations or attempting to place it in the overhead compartment on the train. Homan explains it this way: “Don’t overpack: Less is more in this situation, especially if you have younger kids. You need to take into consideration getting on and off trains with the kids and your luggage.” Not to mention, you save time and money when booking flights! Though it may not be realistic to pack in a carry-on bag if you have to pack a stroller and diapers, the lighter your bag is, the easier it will be to lug around. If you have kids over age seven, allow them to bring their own backpacks and encourage them to only pack toys and electronics that they can carry on their own when they’re walking in the train station or airport. (Otherwise, you may end up with three backpacks!) Homan also recommends bringing laundry detergent pods so you can wash kids’ clothes in the sink and use the line in the bathroom to dry them. Lots of hotels and Airbnbs also have washers and dryers, and on cruises, you can pay them to do a load of laundry. Plan Ahead, But Be Flexible It can be tempting to stress if you don’t have every minute of every day planned
out, but I’ve found that it honestly works better when you leave part of your schedule open. I hate to break it to you, but something will go wrong, no matter how diligently you plan. And you know what? That’s okay. Some of my favorite moments have been unplanned, whether it be stumbling upon a parade or a festival, discovering a really yummy gelato shop on my way home from dinner or simply having fun talking with a friend while sitting on a bench by the water. Nevertheless, it is important to include some structure and plan ahead for attractions that typically sell out of tickets, restaurants that you want to eat at, and transportation like train tickets. Flexibility is even more essential when you add kids into the picture. As Homan points out, “Don’t overschedule yourself. With younger kids and naptime, you’ve got to be flexible. Having a driver or a private guide can also be really helpful.” Her biggest tip when it comes to planning? “Pick one morning activity and leave the afternoon open or vice versa.” It’s not realistic to pretend your entire family will be happy to explore from sunrise to sunset. The “one-plan-per-day” rule will help you determine your “must- dos,” so you won’t miss out. Make sure to plan something the first afternoon you
arrive so everyone stays awake—it will help make the time change transition smoother. (But give yourself and the kids grace, because it will take their bodies a few days to adjust to the new time zone.) Do Your Research When you’re trip planning, Pinterest, blogs and travel forums will become your best friends. I typically look up the name of the country or city with a phrase like “best things to do in” or “best places to visit in.” Make a list of all of the things you are interested in, and if something is repeated multiple times, look into it further. I try to keep all of my trip information (flight and train times, attraction names and links, traditional cuisine to try, lodging addresses, and more) in a Google doc that I can refer to throughout the planning process and during the trip itself. (It is easy to access and share on a mobile device on-the-go. There are also websites that help you track everything if you prefer.) Another great source is sites like Viator and Airbnb Experiences that offer cooking classes, food tours, day trips, and other experiences like sailing on a local’s private boat. One of my favorite tools is the Rick Steves Europe free
audioguide app, which has excellent walking guides. Research the weather in the time of year you’re going so you’ll be prepared. If you have flexibility and littles not yet in school, it is much cheaper, less crowded, and overall easier to travel in Reach out to your host or hotel and ask if they have any local restaurant or activity recommendations. They know what they’re talking about, I promise. Most of my favorite foods and restaurants have been suggested to me. This tip extends to restaurant servers. I always ask for their favorite entreé, and almost without fail, it is the best thing I’ve ever tasted and I never would’ve ordered it without asking. When you’re there, learn a few basic phrases so the locals know you are trying. the “off-season.” Ask the Locals Remember: The more fun your kids have, the more fun you will have. Homan suggests hiring tour guides that specialize in kids, particularly in Europe. “They tell stories of ancient history in a way that makes your kids excited, which will make their experience that much better,” she promises. Her other biggest A little goes a long way. Make It Kid-Friendly
recommendation is to bring new travel- friendly activities with you, like travel puzzles, games or a fidget toy. “When we did Europe with the kids this past summer, I bought several city-specific travel scavenger hunts online for places we visited, like Rome. When we were at iconic spots like the Trevi Fountain, [my kids] had to look for certain things, and it was a great way to keep them engaged Remember, at the end of the day, the point of a trip is ultimately to create lasting memories with the people you love. Moreover, bringing your kids on an international adventure is important because it expands their horizons and grows them into better people. Forbes even wrote an article titled “Kids Who Travel Do Better In School.” The Family Travel Association’s 2023 U.S. Family Travel Survey confirmed that travel helps kids become more confident, more interested in other cultures and helps them see the world from a broader perspective. So what are you waiting for? Traveling with your family is an investment you will never regret. while we traveled,” she shares. Stop Stressing and Have Fun
NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2025 21
Maximizing Parent-Teacher Conferences BY AMANDA CIANI
22 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM outline of the year can help students stay on course while clearly laying out expectations for coursework, grading and more. In regards to grading, many classrooms Plan for success from day one. Hold onto those first-day-of-school syllabi and refer back to them as needed. This detailed S tudents spend 30–35 hours a week at school. They are challenged and they grow, both academically and socially, too. The drastic changes that happen in one short school year can be seen in those adorable first day of school photos compared to the “Wow, look how much they’ve grown up” last day of school photos that parents take! And teachers are firsthand witnesses to all of it. Having an opportunity to chat with your student’s teacher is like taking a peek into your child’s school life. Get ready for that window into their world; with a little bit of preparation, you can make the absolute most of a parent- teacher conference. Stay In-the-Know
is being given, avoid going on the defense and coming up with excuses, or going on the offense and placing blame. Gather information and ask clarifying follow-up questions to confirm understanding. Teachers truly want their students to succeed and having an open conversation will allow for better collaboration between the teacher, the student and their guardians. Talk Sometimes in life, what is going on at home can have an affect on how a student is behaving socially or performing academically at school. If there have been any major life changes that may be a catalyst for a behavior shift, take the time to inform your student’s teacher. Teachers may even be able to offer resources and guidance to help your student manage life’s circumstances while they are at school. Prepare Questions in Advance Every child is unique. Their individual academic journey will shape the nature of the questions that may be asked
have up-to-date digital gradebooks which students, and their parents, can utilize to stay informed. Families can be mindful of their students absences and missing assignments, which could negatively impact a student’s grade. Of course praise can, and should, be given for good grades, but seeing a not-so-great grade is an opportunity to investigate what studying practices might work better the next time around. Already knowing how your student is doing in class takes away the element of surprise when it comes to the parent- teacher conference. It is true—knowledge is power. Having an idea of your student’s academic performance will allow you to sit back and listen to what the teacher has to say. Which brings us to the next point… Listen Really listen. Attempt to actively hear what is being said. This is easy to do when positives are being highlighted. Who doesn’t love a brag session on their child? If constructive criticism
during a parent-teacher conference. Some examples include: • Is my student being challenged appropriately? • What can I do at home to extend learning and support my child’s education? • Would you recommend additional support for my student at this time? This could include gifted, enrichment or intervention services, speech therapy, occupational therapy, tutoring, etc. • What are my students’ strengths in the classroom, socially/academically? • What should my student be focusing on to improve their school experience? Day-to-day chats with your student can give you some insights about what life is like in the classroom, but parent-teacher conferences are a bit like being a fly on the wall where you gain even more insight about your kiddo. Take the time to ask questions and learn more about your child. Make a Plan If teachers are meeting with many parents on a given conference night, individual parent-teacher face-to-face time may be time restricted. Be sure to ask for the teacher’s preferred method of contact and reach out in the future, if necessary. Also inform the teacher of how they can best reach out to you, if need be. Note: If you change address or get a new phone number during the school year, to update your students’ main office! Finally, if additional discussion time is being requested, throw out some dates and put it on the calendar! A parent-teacher conference has the potential to be stressful for the teacher, the parent and maybe even the student, too. But if everyone is prepared and does their part, it will run smoothly! Be informed, yet open, communicate strengths and concerns. Overall, create an optimistic environment where it is known that everyone is working together to guide the student to learn, grow and flourish. At the end of the day and at heart of it, everyone is truly on “Team Student”!
NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2025 23
24 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
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26 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
March 2025
out & about
2 Swan Lake Prepare to be captivated by a breathtaking ballet performance featuring over 200 exquisite costumes, transporting
Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert The epic adventures of Indiana Jones are even more thrilling as its beloved score is played live by the LPO with the film on the big screen. March 8. mahaliajacksontheater.com
1
you to a world of romance, passion, and beauty. March 13. jeffersonpac.com
St. Patrick Parade of Jefferson 3
This beloved tradition for features 100+ floats, bands, and throws along the original Metairie parade route. March 16. stpatricksdaymetairie.com
4
50th Anniversary Louisiana Crawfish Festival The 2025 Louisiana Crawfish Festival celebrates Cajun culture with delicious crawfish, live music, arts and crafts, and family-friendly entertainment. March 20-23. louisianacrawfishfestival.com
5 Join Blippi, Meekah, and live musicians for the Blippi: Join the Band Tour, a fun-filled, interactive Blippi: Join the Band Tour!
musical adventure for the whole family! March 23. saengernola.com
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information. HEADS UP!
NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2025 27
MARCH 2025
01 SATURDAY FAMILY GARDEN WALKS Weekly at Longue Vue House and Gardens. 11-11:45 a.m. Free. longuevue.com GRETNA FARMER’S MARKET Weekly at Gretna Market, Gretna, LA. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. gretnala.com KENNER GRAS Kenner City Park, Kenner, LA. 2-6 p.m. kenner.la.us KREWE OF BUSH PARADE Bush, LA. 9 a.m. mardigrasneworleans.com
KREWE OF ENDYMION PARADE Mid-City. 4 p.m. endymion.org KREWE OF IRIS PARADE Uptown. 11 a.m. kreweofiris.org KREWE OF ISIS PARADE Kenner. 6 p.m. kreweofisis.com KREWE OF NOMTOC PARADE Westbank. 10:45 a.m. nomtoc.com KREWE OF TUCKS PARADE Uptown. Noon. kreweoftucks.com
ATHENA PARADE Metairie. 5:30 p.m. kreweofathena.org KREWE OF
Every Saturday at The National WWII Museum. Free. 10 a.m. nationalww2museum.org 02 SUNDAY CRESCENT CITY FARMERS MARKET Weekly at Tad Gormley Stadium, New Orleans
BACCHUS PARADE Uptown. 5:15 p.m. mardigrasneworleans.com KREWE OF MID-CITY PARADE Uptown. Follows Okeanos. krewemidcity.com KREWE OF OKEANOS PARADE Uptown. 11 a.m. kreweofokeanos.org KREWE OF THOTH PARADE
City Park. 8 a.m. to Noon. crescentcity farmersmarket.org
FREE FAMILY SUNDAY Longue Vue House and Gardens. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. longuevue.com KREWE OF
Uptown. Noon. thothkrewe.com
STORYTIME AT THE MUSEUM
03 MONDAY LUNDI GRAS
KREWE OF IRIS PARADE . SEE MARCH 1.
KENNER LUNDI GRAS 400 Block of Williams Boulevard, Kenner, LA. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. kenner.la.us KREWE OF CENTURIONS PARADE Metairie. 6 p.m. krewe-of- centurions.myshopify.com KREWE OF KINGS PARADE Metairie. Follows Centurions. kreweofkings.org KREWE OF ORPHEUS PARADE Uptown. 6 p.m. kreweoforpheus.com KREWE OF PROTEUS PARADE Uptown. 5:15 p.m. mardigrasneworleans.com 04 TUESDAY MARDI GRAS CARNIVAL IN COVINGTON PARADE Covington. Follows Lions Club Parade. mardigrasneworleans.com COVINGTON LIONS CLUB PARADE Covington. 10 a.m. covingtongalions.org CRESCENT CITY
28 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
VUE CREW Longue Vue House and Gardens. 2-4 p.m. $25. longuevue.com 09 SUNDAY KREWE OF MARDI PAWS PARADE Covington, LA. 2 p.m. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $13+. smoothiekingcenter.com 11 TUESDAY FUNNY GIRL Through March 16 at Saenger Theatre. Various showtimes. $30-109. saengernola.com NARUTO: THE SYMPHONIC EXPERIENCE Mahalia Jackson Theater. 7 p.m. $29-150. mahaliajacksontheater.com PELICANS VS. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS Smoothie King Center. 8:30 p.m. $12+. smoothiekingcenter.com 13 THURSDAY CRESCENT CITY FARMERS MARKET mardipaws.com PELICANS VS. Weekly at Lafitte Greenway Plaza. 3-7 p.m. crescentcity farmersmarket.org GROWING UP PART 2: THE TALK Worley Hall, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $20. manningchildrens.org JERSEY BOYS Thursdays-Sundays, through April 6 at Le Petit Theatre. Various showtimes. $27-47. lepetittheatre.com PELICANS VS. ORLANDO MAGIC
JERSEY BOYS . SEE MARCH 13.
05 WEDNESDAY ASH WEDNESDAY
FARMERS MARKET Weekly at Uptown Square. 8 a.m. to noon. crescentcity farmersmarket.org KREWE OF ARGUS PARADE Metairie. 11 a.m. kreweofargus.com KREWE OF CRESCENT CITY PARADE Uptown. Follows Elks Orleans. mardigrasneworleans.com KREWE OF ELKS JEFFERSONIANS PARADE Metairie. Follows Argus. mardigrasneworleans.com KREWE OF ELKS ORLEANS PARADE Uptown. Follows Rex. mardigrasneworleans.com KREWE OF REX PARADE Uptown. 10:30 a.m. rexorganization.com KREWE OF ZULU PARADE Uptown. 8 a.m. kreweofzulu.com
Vue House and Gardens. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. $160.
longuevue.com PELICANS VS.
HOUSTON ROCKETS Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $11+. smoothiekingcenter.com 08 SATURDAY FAMILY NIGHT The National WWII Museum. 6-7 p.m. $15-79. nationalww2museum.org KATT WILLIAMS: HEAVEN ON EARTH TOUR Smoothie King Center. 8 p.m. $59+. smoothiekingcenter.com SPROUTS Longue Vue House and Gardens. 9:30-11 a.m. $15. longuevue.com
KREWE OF KIDZ WAGON PARADE
Olde Towne Slidell, Slidell, LA. $10/wagon. Free to the public. 10 a.m. to Noon. visitthenorthshore.com Every Tuesday at The National WWII Museum. Free. 10 a.m. nationalww2museum.org 06 THURSDAY SCHOOL’S OUT CAMP: CARNIVAL EDITION Through March 7 at Longue STORYTIME AT THE MUSEUM
NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2025 29 Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $9+. smoothiekingcenter.com 14 FRIDAY
19 WEDNESDAY MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY LUNCHEON Metairie Country Club, Metairie, LA. Noon to 1:30 p.m. $65+. eventbrite.com 20 THURSDAY COCKTAILS FOR KIDSMART The Cannery. 6:30-9:30 p.m. $125+. kidsmart.org INFANT AND CHILD CPR Worley Hall, Children’s Hospital New Orleans. 6:30-9 p.m. $35. manningchildrens.org POSITIVE DISCIPLINE The Parenting Center, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 6-7:15 p.m. Free. manningchildrens.org 21 FRIDAY ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER Through March 22 at Mahalia Jackson Theater. 7:30 & 8 p.m. $35-99. mahaliajacksontheater.com BLACK AND GOLD GALA Ochsner Performance Center, Metairie, LA. 6:30- 11 p.m. $15-250. jefferson. chambermaster.com 22 SATURDAY ITALIAN-AMERICAN ST. JOSEPH’S PARADE French Quarter. 6 p.m. stpatricksdayneworleans.com GROWING UP FOR GIRLS Worley Hall, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 10 a.m. to Noon. $20. manningchildrens.org LOUISIANA DERBY DAY Fair Grounds Race Course. Noon. $10+. ticketmaster.com NEW ORLEANS BAYOU BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Deutsches Haus. Noon to 9 p.m. $30. eventbrite.com RACE FOR A CAUSE NOLA Motorsports Park, Avondale, LA. 10 a.m. to 6
ANDY GRAMMER - MONSTER TOUR Orpheum Theater. 8 p.m. $39- 89. facebook.com/events CODY JINKS Mahalia Jackson Theater. 7 p.m. $49-145. mahaliajacksontheater.com LARK IN THE PARK New Orleans City Park Botanical Garden. 8-10 p.m. $125+. MARIGNY OPERA BALLET PRESENTS: DUSK Through March 22 at Marigny Opera House. 8 p.m. $40-75. eventbrite.com NOMA AT NIGHT: MEET THE MUSEUM New Orleans Museum of Art. 6-9 p.m. $15-30. noma.org ONCE UPON A MATTRESS Through March 30 at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. Various
showtimes. $41-45. rivertowntheaters.com 15 SATURDAY IRISH CHANNEL ST. PATRICK’S DAY CLUB PARADE Irish Channel. Time TBA. irishchannelno.org KREWE DU POOCH PARADE Mandeville, LA. Noon. krewedupooch.org MUSICAL STORYTIME Popp Bandstand, New Orleans City Park. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. lpomusic.com TAILS BUT NO BLACK TIE Equest Farm, New Orleans City Park. 5-9 p.m. $20+. neworleanscitypark.com THE POETIC SYMPHONY Ashé Powerhouse Theater.
7:30 p.m. to Midnight. $27-36. eventbrite.com 17 MONDAY ST. PATRICK’S DAY CAR SEAT FITTING STATION Manning Family Children’s parking garage, 1st floor. 9-11 a.m. Free. manningchildrens.org DOWNTOWN IRISH CLUB PARADE French Quarter. 7 p.m. stpatricksdayneworleans.com PELICANS VS. DETROIT PISTONS Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $9+. smoothiekingcenter.com
LARK IN THE PARK. SEE MARCH 14.
30 MARCH 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
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