Tips for Choosing Your Baby's Pediatrician

WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

Selecting a pediatrician for your child is an important decision and one that parents shouldn’t take lightly.

Whether you’re expecting a baby, new to town or unhappy with your previous provider, finding a pediatrician for your child is likely one of the items high on your to-do list. Having a pediatrician you see regularly not only helps you track your child’s developmental milestones, it’s essential to be established with a practice so that you have a provider familiar with your child’s history when health concerns arise.

With so many pediatric options available, beginning the search can be daunting. There are medical doctors, osteopathic doctors and nurse practitioners; pediatric-specific practices and family practices; providers focusing on traditional healthcare and those with more holistic approaches. As you begin to sift through your options, here are some questions to consider.

Are They Recommended?

Asking pediatrician recommendations from friends or family members who share your health values is a great way to focus your search. With a few names in hand, you can do further research to see if any of the recommendations are a good fit for your family. First, check out the provider’s website for basic information and then schedule a consultation interview for a more intimate look at the practice, keeping in mind that even a provider who comes highly recommended by someone you trust doesn’t necessarily make them the right one for your family.

Where are They Located?

Think through the times of day you’re likely to be visiting the pediatrician and where you’ll be during that time, whether that’s work, home, or your child’s school or daycare facility. When your child is sick, you want access to be easy.

Before diving into any further research, make sure that the provider you’re considering meets basic standards of care. There are several things Dr. Gregory L. Smith, MD, of Southpointe Pediatrics recommends you look into. Do they accept your insurance? What are the provider’s qualifications—are they a doctor, nurse practitioner or a physician’s assistant—and will you see the same person every time?

“Also choose a pediatrician who goes to the hospital you plan to utilize for delivery or anything else afterwards,” Smith recommends. “You don’t want someone who would be unable to care for your child in a hospital-based setting.”

What’s Their Communication Style?

Learning about how both the office and the doctor will communicate with you will give you a sense of the office culture. Are the receptionists friendly and do they provide clear information? If you have a medical question, are you able to talk directly to a doctor or nurse? How are after-hours concerns handled? Does the office use a portal system for communicating appointments, billing and test results, and if not, how do they share that information? While these things might not necessarily be deal breakers, it’s good to know what to expect communication-wise and if it fits your preferences. “To have a good patient/ physician relationship you have to have good trust,” Smith says. “If you walk out not feeling right, it’s probably not the right fit.”

What Is the Office Like?

During a consultation, get a sense of how the office itself feels. “You want comfort with the location, facility and people caring for your child, especially since you will be there often,” Smith says. Take notice if sick children are separated from wellness visits in the waiting area, and whether you find it an inviting atmosphere. Ultimately, you want a place where you and your children feel welcome and at ease.

Do They Share Your Healthcare Values?

Scanning the practice’s website and meeting for a consultation can give you an idea if the doctor aligns with your healthcare values. Smith recommends asking them about their views on things like vaccinations, how they treat common child illnesses, and how frequently they want to see children for wellness visits. You may also ask about their views on breastfeeding, circumcision, medication use, and alternative or integrative medicine approaches, as well as if they have knowledge on any special medical concerns that affect your child. Overall, get a sense of if they listen to your questions and concerns and if you feel comfortable at the office. If anything doesn’t feel right, question it further.

It may take some time to find a pediatrician that is the right fit for your family, and that’s OK. Keep the conversation open with your pediatrician by asking good questions, voicing any concerns you have as they arise, and advocating for your child at all times. Remember, if you are unhappy with your provider for any reason, you’re not stuck with them forever. However, ultimately, you hope you can find a provider who will care for your children from the time they’re a baby until they head off to college.

A Truly Inclusive Vacation

Tips for making summer travel fun for everyone in your family.

It’s the time of year for allthings summer. And that means pool parties, popsicles on a hot day, chasing fireflies at night and taking some time off for the much needed summer family vacation. The dates are marked off on the calendar. The reservations have been made. You are all set to go, but maybe you’re starting to wonder: How is this going to work for my child with special needs? How do I make this vacation a positive experience, not only for them, but for all of us?

Angie Kost, an occupational therapist in Indianapolis, has provided some helpful tips on how to make summer travel a fun and truly inclusive experience for your child.

What are some things parents should consider when planning for a vacation with a child with disabilities?

Be aware of the accommodations

available. For example, some places may allow a child with a disability (autism for example) to go ahead of the line for an activity. You will also want to know about safety and wheelchair accessibility, if that is needed. Another thing to consider is planning shorter activities so your child doesn't get too fatigued, causing meltdowns.

Understand your child's sensory needs and make adaptations or plans to address as necessary.

For example, some children are overstimulated in loud or busy environments. In that case, you might modify where you go to eat, or how you do certain activities. Another example is that some children may be sensitive to the environment at the beach. Work on desensitization before the trip. A few examples might be reading a book about the beach, playing in sand or listening to a video of the ocean.

Be aware if your child has difficulty with changes in

routine. If so, you might want to review the activities of the day, or consider creating a picture schedule. If things don’t go as you had hoped, that’s OK. Be flexible. You can also have an "oops" card for those instances that don't go as planned.

What are some tips for traveling to and from the destination?

1. Take frequent rest breaks for movement and for the bathroom.

2. Have activities for the car or plane, such as fidgets, games or videos to watch.

3. Snacks are your friend!

Finally, to make travel truly inclusive, don't limit yourself to what summer activities you want to do. Learn to modify and adapt your plans to your child's specific physical, intellectual or sensory needs. Be flexible, and have fun! Make memories that you and your family will cherish for a lifetime.

THINGS TO DO //

JULY 2022

FRI 01 Monon Mixer Enjoy an adults-only (21+) night of fun at The Waterpark after-hours! Relax in the lazy river, sip wine in the cabanas, ride the wave on the FlowRider® and more. Make it a date night or meet up with friends! You’ll be sure to enjoy this kid-free night out. $20. • Location: The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center, Time: 8-10 pm, carmelclayparks.com

FRI 01̶SUN 03 Marion County Fair Enjoy a variety of attractions, including a petting zoo, live music and entertainment, queen and princess pageant, 4-H exhibits, family arts exhibits, 4-H animal competitions, fair food, and much more for the entire family! • Location: Marion County Fairgrounds, marioncountyfair.org

FRI 01̶MON 04 Brownsburg Lions Club 4th of July Extravaganza Celebrate July 4 in Brownsburg with a parade, a patriotic concert, fireworks and more! • Location: Arbuckle Acres Park,

brownsburgparks.com

Lights Over Morse Lake Fireworks, parade, carnival, golf cart poker run, craft and food vendors, live music, classic car cruise in, music Bingo, golf cart scavenger hunt and more. • Location: Community Park, Morse Park and other locations,

lightsovermorselake.org FREE

Symphony on the Prairie: StarSpangled Symphony Pack your picnic and wear your red, white, and blue for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s annual celebration of America. The ISO will salute all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces each night. • Location: Conner Prairie, 6 pm, indianapolissymphony.org SAT 02 Christmas in July “Snowball” Fight Are you longing for cooler temperatures? Take a break from the warm summer weather by participating in a “snowball” fight in July! Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet, and bring swimming goggles if you have them. • Location: McCloud Nature Park, Time: 2-3 pm,

hendrickscountyparks.org FREE

Family Discovery Day: Space Do you have what it takes to be an astronaut? Design a lunar or Martian lander to explore distant lands, create a rocket to blast off into the stars and discover Indiana’s role in exploring the vast universe. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-5 pm,

indianamuseum.org

Reading S'more: Camp Tales Join storyteller Portia Jackson as she shares stories of growing up camping throughout Indiana – highlighting native birds, trees, and plants. • Location: West Perry Branch Library, Time: 11-11:45 am,

indypl.org FREE

SAT 02̶MON 04 Glorious

Fourth Join the citizens of Prairietown as they celebrate 60 years of American independence, but also hear how others have questioned just how free America is. There will be opportunities to help decorate the town with festive red, white, and blue bunting, and help the citizens of Prairietown rehearse speeches and toasts. • Location: Conner Prairie, connerprairie.org

SUN 03 All-American Day in the Park with Fireworks Featuring good food, music, games, and patriotic fireworks to end the night. • Location: Sara T. Bolton Park, Time: 6 pm,

bgpromoters.org/fireworks

SUN 03̶MON 04 Carmelfest

2022 Enjoy live entertainment, delicious festival food, unique marketplace, spectacular fireworks and a celebratory parade. • Location: Downtown Carmel,

carmelfest.net

Westfield Rocks the 4th Enjoy festivities celebrating our country's independence! • Location: Grand Park Sports Complex, Time: 5-10 pm,

westfieldwelcome.com/westfield-4th

MON 04 Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks Festival This event offers plenty of activities for kids, teens, and adults; a live band; a variety of great food vendors; and a great location for families to watch the fireworks display at 10 p.m. • Location: Forest Park, Time: 6-10 pm,

cityofnoblesville.org

Independence Day Social Visit the home of America’s Hoosier President and enjoy a patriotic celebration full of fun for the whole family! Enjoy first floor tours of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. Then, cool off with some ice cream for just $3 while playing fun yard games and listening to patriotic music. Reservations required. • Location: Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Time: 11 am-2 pm, bhpsite.org

July Fourth Celebration @ Victory Field Celebrate the Fourth of July and proudly wear red, white and blue as the Indians host the Iowa Cubs. Enjoy postgame fireworks followed by the city’s Annual Downtown Fireworks. • Location: Victory Field, Time: 6:15 pm, milb.com/

indianapolis

Mooresville Fireworks Celebration Fireworks around dusk, music and concessions will be available throughout the evening. • Location: Pioneer Park, Time: 6 pm, mooresvillepark.com

TUES 05 Animal Shows with Silly Safaris Go on a wild adventure with Silly Safaris in this sit-down 45-minute live animal show! You’ll have the chance to see animals up close and ask questions. • Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch, Time: 2-2:45 pm, indypl.org FREE

Family Movie: The LEGO Movie Drop in and relax with a movie at the library! • Location: Speedway Public Library, Time: 2:30 pm,

speedway.lib.in.us FREE

WED 06 Canal Nights: Superhero Night Discover your superpower, write your own comic book storyline and design your own super suit and super-secret hideout. • Location: The canal outside Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm,

indianamuseum.org FREE

Cool Creek Campfires: AllAmerican Animals Celebrate our country’s birthday with Coyote Chris of Silly Safaris. Animals that get us excited about our independence will be featured! • Location: Cool Creek Nature Center, Time: 7 pm, hamiltoncounty.in.gov FREE

Preschool Play at Plots to Plates Kids ages 2-5 and their families can enjoy openended playtime outdoors at Plots to Plates Organic Gardens on the campus of Carmel Middle School. • Location: Carmel Middle School, Time: 10-10:30 am,

carmelclaylibrary.org FREE

Wednesday Lunchtime Show: Mr. Daniel Spend your Wednesday lunch hour with Fishers Parks! These shows are family friendly, free, and open for all. • Location: Nickel Plate District AMP Stage, Time: Noon-1 pm, playfishers.com FREE

THURS 07 First Thursday Night @ The Children’s Museum On the first Thursday of every month, it's just $6 admission per person! • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 4-8 pm, childrensmuseum.org

Moana Interactive Movie Moana has embarked on a journey to save her people, and you can join her! Follow the script and relive the adventure as she sails across the open ocean on an action packed journey with the demi-god Maui. Each attendee will be given a goodie bag and will play along and participate in their journeys. • Location: Fishers Library, Time: 2-4 pm, hepl.lib.in.us

FREE

Newfields Community Day Enjoy free admission to Newfields on the first Thursday of the month. Advance ticket is required. • Location: Newfields, Time: 11 am-8 pm, discovernewfields.org

FREE

Ocean of Foam Party A foam party includes most of the same elements that a regular party would: music, dancing and even games. The only difference is that with a foam party, the dance floor will be covered in fun foam! Register online for one of three 40-minute sessions. • Location: Westfield Washington Public Library, Time: 11:30 am-1:30 pm,

wwpl.lib.in.us FREE

THURS 07̶SAT 09 Holy Spirit Festival Festival includes carnival rides; music by local bands; food booths offering items such as roasted corn on the cob, brownies, elephant ears, pizza, tacos and Filipino food; a midway; and more. • Location: Holy Spirit Catholic School East Side, facebook.

com/Holyspiritfestival1

FRI 08 Grown Up Night at the Pool Grown-ups are invited for a night out at the pool. Cash bar available, and the movie Grown Ups will be playing! • Location: Murphy Aquatic Park in Avon, Time: 7-11 pm, washingtontwpparks.org

Romp & Stomp Join the youth librarians at Lincoln Park gazebo and enjoy music and movement! Bring a chair and your own scarf and shaker-type item. We will dance and move our bodies to various styles of music. • Location: Lincoln Park in Zionsville, Time: 10-10:30 am, hmmpl.org FREE

FRI 08̶SAT 09 Artie Fest Enjoy a family-friendly, community celebration. The festival brings many fun-filled activities and talented entertainment to you. • Location: Downtown Martinsville, artiefest.org

SAT 09 Color Run/Walk 2022 Run through a color explosion! As you run, you will be showered with color at random spots along the way. At the end of the run will be fun activities like paint gun target shooting. • Location: Washington Township Park, Time: 9-11 am, washingtontwpparks.org

Fishers Farmers Market: Biz Kidz Day Biz Kidz Day welcomes young entrepreneurs to become market vendors for a day. • Location: Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Time: 8 am-Noon,

playfishers.com FREE

Indy Skate & Music Fest Features live music, skateboarding & BMX, food trucks, prize giveaways, face-painting, vendor booths, and other fun things to do for attendees of all ages. • Location: Major Taylor Cycloplex, Time: 11 am-7 pm, indysmf.com

Marvel Super Hero Night with Doctor Strange @ Victory Field Be one of the first 2,500 fans through the Victory Field gates and receive a comic. Plus, the Indians will wear Doctor Strange specialty jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game, with all proceeds benefiting Indianapolis Indians Charities. • Location: Victory Field, Time: 7:05 pm, milb.com/indianapolis

Summer Concert Series: Indianapolis Symphonic Band Enjoy an evening of music performed by local musicians. Lay out a blanket or set up some camping chairs on the sledding hill and enjoy! • Location: Fort Harrison State Park, Time: 7 pm, on.in.gov/fortharrisonsp

SAT 09̶SUN 10 Mary Poppins in Concert Featuring “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” enjoy this magical Disney classic performed live by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. • Location: Hilbert Circle Theatre, 2 & 8 pm, indianapolissymphony.org

SUN 10 Sensory-friendly Sundays @ Conner Prairie The second Sunday of every month, exhibit components that make noise will be turned off. All quiet spaces can be utilized and staff trained in Sensory Friendly Practices will be on hand in case anyone needs assistance. • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 10 am-Noon,

connerprairie.org *SN

MON 11 Astronomy & Constellations with Snapology Learn about the night sky, how astronomers tell stars apart, and how stars aid in navigation and inspire storytelling. Kids will build their own LEGO® constellation along with a complementary story. • Location: Pike Branch Library, Time: 1-2 pm, indypl.org

FREE

SAT, JULY 02

READING S'MORE: CAMP TALES AT WEST PERRY BRANCH LIBRARY

Tales for Tots Toddlers are exploring the world around them and their storytime covers a wide range of themes using books, puppets, songs, and fingerplays. Ages 12-35 months. • Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 9:30-10 am, hmmpl.org

FREE

TUES 12 Jungle Tales Bring your preschooler to this program with a focus on the natural world. Enjoy a different nature-related story, activity and craft each month. $5; registration required. • Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am,

garfieldgardensconservatory.org

Small Wonders: Water Learn easy ways to engage your preschooler in nature and scientific exploration. Each class introduces a new topic through hands-on activities, hikes and crafts, and provides ideas for exploring at home. Ages 3-5. • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 10-11 am, indyparks.org

WED 13 Children’s Entertainment Series: The Water Show Bring a towel and arrive excited for fun in the water! • Location: Dillon Park in Noblesville, Time: 10-11 am,

noblesvilleparks.org FREE

Wednesday Lunchtime Show: Stevens Puppets Spend your Wednesday lunch hour with Fishers Parks! These shows are family friendly, free, and open for all. • Location: Central Green in Fishers, Time: Noon-1 pm, playfishers.

com FREE

THURS 14 Back to School Bingo Come play Bingo to earn supplies for school! This event is free with limited seating. Children only, please. • Location: Pavilion Center in Avon, Time: 3-7 pm,

washingtontwpparks.org FREE

Ladybug Appreciation Day Not only are ladybugs cute, they’re also great for the garden! Join us as we learn all about these cool creatures. Program will include a craft and a chance to explore the garden. $5; registration required. • Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 2-3 pm,

garfieldgardensconservatory.org

FRI 15 Mermaid & Pirate Party Cool animals aren't the only things living in the oceans. Mermaids and pirates also lurk in the depths! Drop in and enjoy some fun crafts and activities. Costumes are encouraged! • Location: Westfield Washington Public Library, Time: 2-4 pm, wwpl.

lib.in.us FREE

THURS, JULY 14 LADYBUG APPRECIATION DAY AT GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY

Story Alive! Corduroy Takes a Bow See a world-class concert hall with your preschooler in this week’s Story Alive! Kids are encouraged to bring their favorite bear toys for this session, which starts with a reading about a little girl’s first visit to a theater. We will then tour the Palladium concert hall and make some “beary” special crafts. • Location: The Palladium, Time: 10 am,

thecenterpresents.org

Summer Nights Film Series: Ever After, a Cinderella Story Bring your chairs, blankets, pillows, umbrellas, food, and non-alcoholic beverages, and enjoy a family film under the stars. • Location: Newfields, Time: 7 pm,

discovernewfields.org

FRI 15̶SAT 16 Symphony on the Prairie: Broadway Under the Stars with the ISO Join Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly for this exciting performance of all of your Broadway favorites. Featuring music from Beauty & The Beast, Les Misérables, Hamilton, Moulin Rouge, and Wicked! • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 8 pm, connerprairie.org

SAT 16 Family Mini Boat Regatta Bring your engineering skills and creative spirit to the Indiana State Museum as you and your family design and construct a mini cardboard boat. Then test your boat in the canal to see if it will sink, float or sail. Purchase a basic boat kit, with other tools and materials available on site to enhance your construction. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-3 pm, indianamuseum.org

Ninja Adventure Course Test yourself on a ninja course, participate in a fitness challenge, and use your parkour moves. The course is less than 1 mile and is created to be age specific. Bring your running shoes and energy. $10. • Location: Pecar Park, Time: 6:30 pm, washingtontwpparks.org

Story Castle Cinema: Finding Nemo Enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the Story Castle! • Location: Westfield Washington Public Library, Time: 1-3 pm, wwpl.lib.in.us FREE

Young Explorers: Art Expression Be inspired to create your own artwork after taking a look at our new art exhibits at the Indiana State Museum. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 1-2:30 pm, indianamuseum.org SUN 17 Slip ‘N Foam Party We are bubbling up some foamtastic summer fun! Bring your family out to play and slip 'n slide at the park! • Location: Forest Park in Noblesville, Time: 11 am-1 pm, noblesvilleparks.org FREE

“Under the Sea” Family Sing-aLong Sing along to familiar and new tunes featuring songs inspired by the sea! Geared towards children ages 2-5 but all ages welcome! Registration required. • Location: Fishers Library, Time: 2-3 pm, hepl.

lib.in.us FREE

MON 18 Family Bingo Night Kids, bring your parents or grandparents for an intergenerational fun night with classic Bingo games! • Location: Westfield Washington Public Library, Time: 6-7 pm, wwpl.lib.in.us FREE

Scien-Tots Little scientists and their caregivers will investigate STEM concepts through a story and hands-on exploration at learning stations in this lab-style program. Ages 2-4; registration required. • Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 9:30 am,

hepl.lib.in.us FREE

TUES 19 LEGO Read, Build, Play Combines reading and building with LEGO Duplo bricks, creating a parent-child interactive story and playtime. Ages 3-6. • Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 6:30-7 pm, hmmpl.org

FREE

Sensory Story Time with Carter’s Play Place Interactive sensory play during an evening story time for all ages. Engage in hands-on play to bring stories to life! • Location: Westfield Washington Public Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, wwpl.

lib.in.us FREE *SN

WED 20 Canal Nights: Create and Construct Join us and community partners along the canal walk outside of the museum for a combination of outdoor activities and themed, hands-on experiments. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm, indianamuseum.org FREE

Little Green Thumbs Bring your little gardener to get their hands dirty in the Children's Garden. Participants will have the opportunity to plant, care for, and harvest crops in the Garden. $5; registration required. • Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am,

garfieldgardensconservatory.org

THURS 21 Family Movie: The Mitchells vs. The Machines Drop in and relax with a movie at the library! • Location: Speedway Public Library, Time: 2:30 pm, speedway.lib.

in.us FREE

FRI 22 Friday Campfire: Bats Enjoy a fun family Friday night around the campfire. Enjoy a sweet treat by the fire, learn about something new, and experience night hiking! Roasting sticks and s'mores provided, bring your own hot dogs and make a meal of it! • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 6:30-8 pm, indyparks.org

Movie in the Plaza: The Parent Trap Enjoy an evening of entertainment on the Great Lawn. Movies begin around dusk, so start times will vary. Bring blankets and chairs to cozy up and enjoy the movie! • Location: Grand Junction Plaza, Time: Dusk, westfieldwelcome.com FREE

Story Alive! The Night Before Christmas Celebrate Christmas in July with your preschooler! This session starts with a reading of The Night Before Christmas, followed by moving along to holiday-themed music, practicing the Freeze Dance and making crafts. • Location: The Palladium, Time: 10 am, thecenterpresents.org

SAT 23 Aviation Community Day This free, family-friendly event is open to the public! Attendees will have the opportunity to climb aboard airplanes, get a photo in the cockpit, tour the school and facility, meet aviation professionals and participate in aviation-related activities. • Location: Indianapolis International Airport, Time: 10 am-2 pm,

facebook.com/indyatc FREE

Family Creek Exploration Holliday Park has ponds and creeks teeming with wildlife. Participants will have loads of fun getting wet and muddy exploring the creatures that live in these wet places. A naturalist will help you identify what you find. Nets and collecting tubs provided. Wear old shoes and clothes that can get dirty. • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 1:30-2:30 pm, indyparks.org

Harry Potter’s Magical Journeys Live a day in the life of a Hogwarts student by attending Potions, Divination and Herbology classes and so much more! All ages welcome. • Location: Fishers Library, Time: 11 am-3 pm, hepl.lib.in.us FREE

Indianapolis Sky Lantern Festival Experience one of the most magical moments with your family and friends as you watch thousands of lanterns fly through the sky. Use our beautiful lanterns to release negativity from your life, to create positive energy to attract the future you want, or to send a heartfelt message to a loved one. Just as nightfall sets in, we will collectively release our lanterns up to the stars. • Location: American Hardware & Supply Co., Time: 5-10 pm, lightsoveramerica.events

SAT 23̶SUN 24 Crossroads

GameFest Indy’s premier Eurogame festival. This two-day community event is a celebration of the culture and heritage behind some of the world’s most popular tabletop games. • Location: Athenaeum Theatre, Time: 9 am-6 pm, athenaeumindy.org MON 25 Preschool Pals Children are introduced to longer stories and will enjoy various interactive activities promoting early literacy. Ages 3-6. • Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, hmmpl.org FREE

TUES 26 Adzooks Puppets Enjoy Adzooks Puppets as they present “The Circus of Imagination!” After the show, stick around and learn how to make a puppet from found objects. • Location: Speedway Public Library, Time: 2:15 pm, speedway.lib.

in.us FREE

Library Splash Pad Day Meet your library friends at Quaker Park Splash Pad! Bring your sunscreen, swimwear, pool shoes, towel, and snacks. • Location: Quaker Park, Time: 1:30-2:30 pm,

wwpl.lib.in.us FREE

WED 27 Canal Nights: EcoCitizen Find out what it takes to be an eco-citizen through activities that explore environmental responsibility, pollution, recycling and more. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm, indianamuseum.org FREE

Mr. Daniel: Dance and Sing Show Enjoy singing, dancing and more with your little ones this summer. • Location: Finch Creek Park, Time: 10-11 am, noblesvilleparks.org FREE

Wednesday Lunchtime Show: Stevens Puppets Spend your Wednesday lunch hour with Fishers Parks! These shows are family friendly, free, and open for all. • Location: Central Green in Fishers, Time: Noon-1 pm, playfishers.

com FREE

THURS 28 Family Game Night Enjoy games, puzzles and family fun in a safe setting. • Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch Library, Time: 4:30-5:30 pm, indypl.org FREE

Little Explorers: Summertime Fun Enjoy a short walk around the park, exploring nature as we go. There will also be activities and crafts available during or after the walk. Ages 2-6; $4. • Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am,

garfieldgardensconservatory.org

Monon Mixer Enjoy an adults-only (21+) night of fun at The Waterpark after-hours! Relax in the lazy river, sip wine in the cabanas, ride the wave on the FlowRider® and more. Make it a date night or meet up with friends! You’ll be sure to enjoy this kid-free night out. $20. • Location: The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center, Time: 8-10 pm,

carmelclayparks.com

THURS 28̶SUN 31 42nd Street

Come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway! 42nd Street celebrates Broadway, Times Square and the magic of show biz with wit, humor and pizzazz. • Location: The Tarkington, thecenterpresents.org

Frozen Jr. The enchanting modern classic from Disney tells the story of true love and acceptance between sisters and princesses, Elsa and Anna, and when faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This youth production features players ages 5-18. • Location: The Auditorium at The Annex at Ivy Tech, Time: 2 & 8 pm, thebelfrytheatre.com

FRI 29 Story Alive! The Wild Symphony Come be a musical animal! This session starts with a reading of The Wild Symphony. Then we’ll get the wiggles out by jumping like animals to classical music from the story, followed by craft time. • Location: The Palladium, Time: 10 am,

thecenterpresents.org

Summer Nights Film Series: Cruella Bring your chairs, blankets, pillows, umbrellas, food, and non-alcoholic beverages, and enjoy a family film under the stars. • Location: Newfields, Time: 7 pm,

discovernewfields.org

SAT 30 Monsoon Madness This pop-up waterpark returns to Fishers with inflatable slides, mechanical machines, toddler and teen areas, and more! • Location: Holland Park, Time: 11 am-3 pm,

playfishers.com FREE

SAT, JULY 23

AVIATION COMMUNITY DAY AT INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Mary Poppins Through July 10. One of the most popular Disney movies of all time becomes a practically perfect musical! Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious adventures. • Location: Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, beefandboards.com

Food Truck Friday @ Federal Hill Commons

Through July 22. On the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, enjoy lunch in the park from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., where local food trucks will serve up delicious menu items. • Location: Market Plaza at Federal Hill Commons in Noblesville,

noblesvilleparks.org

Indiana State Fair July 29-Aug. 21. Held for 17 days each summer, the Indiana State Fair features family fun, rides and games, barnyard animals, goat yoga, fabulous fair food, and the Indiana Beer Wine & Spirits expo. • Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds,

indianastatefair.com

Barbie - You Can Be

Anything Through July 31. From career dolls to real-world role models, Barbie has been inspiring girls since 1959 — and she isn't done yet! This exhibit showcases the iconic Barbie doll and encourages the kind of imaginative play that teaches us that we can all make the world a better place by doing work that excites us, challenges us, and brings us fulfillment. • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis,

childrensmuseum.org

The Market at White River State Park Through July. Find a large range of vendors offering farm-fresh produce, meat, eggs, prepared foods and drinks, flowers, plants and handcrafted artisan goods. First and third Sundays through July. • Location: White River State Park Celebration Plaza,

whiteriverstatepark.org

Animals & All That Jazz Through Aug. 4. One of the Zoo’s longest-running events, this series showcases a diverse lineup of musicians from across the Midwest, covering jazz genres from classic to contemporary, smooth soul to blues, and even blending in the sounds of pop and R&B. All performances take place under the Bicentennial Pavilion. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo,

indianapoliszoo.com

Warhol’s West Through Aug. 7. See late-career works of Pop Art icon Andy Warhol that capture the myths and pop culture surrounding familiar figures of the American West. • Location: Eiteljorg Museum, eiteljorg.org

Sugar - Commodity and Confection in Art

Through Aug. 21. Prints, drawings, photographs, sculpture, tableware and textiles from the IMA Collection will show guests how sugar has shaped our material culture and social conventions. Guests will see pieces created with sugar as well as renderings of classic treats and other artworks made possible by sugar in surprising ways. • Location: Newfields, discovernewfields.org

Major Taylor: Fastest Cyclist in the World

Through Oct. 23. Discover the life and career of champion bicycle racer and Indianapolis native Marshall “Major” Taylor. In this interactive experience, venture into the training room to learn how Taylor developed his speed and agility through a strict regimen of exercise and diet. Discover the pervasive racism that Taylor battled, and hear from contemporary cyclists about how Taylor’s story has inspired a new generation of Black riders. • Location: Indiana State Museum,

indianamuseum.org

Scooby-Doo Mansion

Mayhem June 4-Jan. 31, 2023. Shaggy, Scooby, Fred, Daphne, and Velma have another mystery on their hands. A jewel-thieving ghost has evaded the local police force and was last seen in this very mysterious mansion. Enter the mansion and immerse yourself into a unique adventure where you can enter the world of Scooby-Doo! • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis,

childrensmuseum.org

Indy Parks Summer Concert and Movie Series Returns

Indy Parks recently unveiled the official lineup for its popular Summer Concert and Movie Series, kicking off the season with the sounds of artist Kenny Phelps Trio at Taggart Memorial Amphitheatre.

The Summer Concert and Movie Series, which offers free performances, features special movie showings of Angels in the Outfield, Soul, and Space Jam. Throughout the summer, the Charlie Ballantine Quartet, ZIMBUYA, Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis, The Honey Dew Drops, and Will Power – Tower of Power Tribute Band with Fireworks Show, will join performers at Garfield Park, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Broad Ripple Park, and Eagle Creek Park Beach.

Indy Parks is partnering with cultural development firm GANGGANG again this year to build equity into the roster of performances. With support from Lilly Endowment Inc. through The Parks Alliance, the Taggart Memorial Amphitheatre summer series will begin with shows on six consecutive Friday nights, with the first series ending on July 8, followed by a second series that begins on August 19. Designed with a wide variety of tastes in mind, the Riverside series will feature diverse musical acts like New Horizon Band, Fat Pockets, PsyrWrn Simone, Blackberry Jam and Django Knight, in addition to reggae and jazz performances, poetry readings, and dance.

This summer, Indy Parks is also offering free pool admission. Currently, Frederick Douglass Park, Garfield Park, Perry Park, Thatcher Park, and Willard Park are welcoming guests Wednesday-Sunday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. with the exception of Thatcher Park Pool being closed on Sundays. We anticipate opening more summer pools in June and July. To sign up for FREE pool passes and find more details on concerts, movies, job opportunities, and more, visit parks.indy.gov, call (317) 327-PARK, or email IndyParksCS@indy.gov.

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INDY'S CHILDfun & WACKY calendar 07.2022

SUN MON TUES WEDS THURS FRI SAT

1

GINGERSNAP DAY WORLD UFO DAY

3

BUILD A SCARECROW DAY

GRAHAM CRACKER DAY KISSING

DAY CHOCOLATE DAY

VIDEO GAME DAY FASHION

DAY

4 5 6 7 8 9

10

KITTEN DAY

11

BLUEBERRY

MUFFIN

DAY

12

ETCH A SKETCH DAY

13

FRENCH

FRY

DAY

14

SHARK AWARENESS DAY

15

GUMMI WORM DAY

WORLD SNAKE DAY

17

EMOJI DAY

18 19

LISTENING DAY PRODUCT DAY

24

COUSINS

DAY

25

CAROUSEL DAY

RASPBERRY 31 CAKE DAY

26

DISABILITY INDEPENDENCE DAY

20

MOON DAY

27

WALK ON STILTS DAY

21

JUNK FOOD DAY

28

CHILI DOG DAY

22 23

HAMMOCK DAY SPRINKLE DAY

29 30

TIGER DAY FRIENDSHIP DAY