To list your events in the P&K Calendar e-mail calendar@parents-kids.com. Deadline is six weeks prior to publication. Photos are welcome, but may not be returned.
New Stage Winter Acting Classes for Youth. 1
st- 12
th grade begin in Jan. Actor's will be exploring warm up techniques, improvisation and acting exercises, and the older grades will also work on auditioning and performing. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Education Director Chris Roebuck at 601-948-3533 ext 232 or email
education@newstagetheatre.com.
January 3 Thursday
Classes for Multiple Births. 6:30pm. Baptist Medical Center. Baptist for Women hosts the Marvelous Multiples childbirth class for couples who are expecting more than one baby. Four-week class cost $5 per couple. Registration is required call1-800-948-6262 or 601-948-6262.
January 8 Tuesday
Prepared Childbirth Course. 7-9pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. A class that covers everything you need to know before, during and after your baby’s birth. 5-Week Course. Call 601-200-6934 to register. Cost: $50 per couple.
January 9 Wednesday
Expectant Grandparents Free Class. 6pm. Baptist Medical Center, Busey Auditorium. Expectant grandparents can prepare for their new roles. The session covers changes in labor and delivery and the focus on family-centered maternity care. The agenda also includes a refresher on baby feeding and safety and a discussion of basic diplomacy for the newly extended family. Registration is required call 1-800-948-6262 or 601-948-6262.
January 12 Saturday
Help Fight Childhood Obesity. 10am-12pm. Clinton Healthplex. For children ages 6-14 and their parents. Bring your child and join Baptist for this fun, family-friendly morning of learning how to eat right, get moving, and get healthy. Various speakers including Chef Luis Brune.
January 12 Saturday
Car Seat Safety Checks for Infants. 12-2pm. Colonnades Medical Office Building parking lot. To register, call the Baptist Health Line at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
January 12 Saturday
MS Symphony Orchestra Bravo Series. 7:30pm. Thalia Mara Hall. “Winter Blend.” Call 601-960-1565 or visit
www.msorchestra.com for ticket information.
January 14-18 Memphis Zoo Academy. 10am-3pm. Memphis Zoo. Grades PreK-8 grade. $95 per child. 25 percent off one child's tuition for being a Zoo Academy aide (Must be 18 or older). Parents provide non-refrigerated sack lunch. Call 901-333-6765 to register.
January 15 Tuesday
Preston Chamber Music Series. 7:30pm. Belhaven College Center for the Arts, Concert Hall. An Evening of Diamonds II. Guest Artist Susan Lane Stokes, Soprano has received critical and popular acclaim not only for the beauty of her singing but also the depth and veracity of her performances. She has enjoyed a career appearing with regional opera companies and orchestras nationally. Admission $10. Doors open at 7:00 pm.
January 17 Thursday
Owl Hoot and Slide Lecture.7pm. Clinton Community Nature Center. JAS joins CCNC in their Third Thursday lecture series. Learn about owls and go out on the trails to listen for owls hooting. Donations to CCNC appreciated. Call 601-956-7444.
January 17 Thursday
Parent Academies. 6pm. Hardy Middle School, 545 Ellis Ave. Presented by Jackson Public Schools parents learn about the new K-12 Language Arts and Mathematics curriculum frameworks and receive tips to help students prepare for MCT2 and SATP tests. For more information or to register, please call the Enochs Family Resource Center at 601-960-8945.
January 18-February 17
Dixie National Rodeo and Livestock Show. Mississippi State Fairgrounds. MS. World Champion Cowboys compete for the big bucks on the best Harper& Morgan Rodeo stock. Rodeo clowns, bull fighters, barrel racers and ropers all competing in spectacular events. For complete schedule of events, rodeo tickets or a brochure 601-961-4000.
Jan. 19-May 26
Your House, My House. Open 9 am-5 pm, Mon.-Sat., and 12-5 pm, Sun. Children’s Museum of Memphis. Take a fantastic journey into the homes of people around the world. There is the “My House” area, “Houses, Houses Everywhere”, “Design Center” and “Build Your Own”. Price included with museum admission. Admission: $7 children (1-12) and senior citizens (65+), $8 adults (13-64). Call 901-458-2678 or 901-320-3170. For a complete list of activities and coupons visit
www.cmom.com.
January 21-25
Memphis Zoo Academy. 10am-3pm. Memphis Zoo. Grades 9-12. $110 per child. 25 percent off one child's tuition for being a Zoo Academy aide (Must be 18 or older). Parents provide non-refrigerated sack lunch. Call (901) 333-6765 to register.
January 22 Tuesday
Women’s Wellness Seminar: A New Year, a New You. 11:45am. Baptist Madison Campus, Community Room. Get your New Year off to the best possible start. Find out what you should be doing—whether you are in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond—to stay healthy and strong. Guest speaker OB/GYN Meredith Travelstead, M.D., will cover a complete range of prevention and wellness topics. A box lunch is included. Free. To register, call the Baptist Health Line at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
January 24 Thursday
Breastfeeding Class. 7-9pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. This class includes the advantages of breastfeeding for mother and baby, prenatal preparation, keys to successful breastfeeding and expressing and storing breast milk. Call 601-200-6934. Free.
January 24 Thursday
Fatherwise. 7pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. A one-night class for expectant or new fathers which offers personal, first-hand tips from a new dad and advice on how to help mom. Call 601-200-6934 to register.
January 26 Saturday
Infant Seat Safety Check. 12-2pm. Outside St. Dominic’s Medical Mall. Certified technicians from Mississippi Safe Kids will be at St. Dominic’s to show parents how to properly install their child’s car seat. Call 601-200-6934 for more information. Free.
January 26 Saturday
Brothers and Sisters-To-Be Class. 10-11am. St. Dominic Educational Services. A special class for children ages 3-8 who are expecting a new baby in their family. Emphasis is given to the sibling’s new role as a big brother or big sister. Class includes refreshments and a small group discussion on newborns. Call 601-200-6934 for details or to register. Free.
January 26 Saturday
Great Backyard Bird Count. 10am-12pm. Clinton Community Nature Center. Jackson Audubon Society presents a workshop to help you identify and count birds in your backyard. You can be a Citizen Scientist and submit important data on your birds for this national project held every President Day weekend. Call 601-956-7444.
Jan. 26 & 27 Feb. 2 & 3
Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse. 2pm. New State Theatre. Everyone hide your no frills cheese balls, 'cause Lilly's coming! This spunky little mouse is sure to delight and entertain everyone. Tickets adults $10, children $6. Call 601-948-3533 or visit
www.newstagetheatre.com. Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse Birthday Parties available at New Stage following the performances on Jan. 27, Feb.2 & 3. For pricing and more information, please call Ali Dinkins at 601-941-9204.
Jan. 27 & 29 Sun. & Tues.
Vicksburg Theatre Guild auditions: “Gold in the Hills” Sun.5:30pm. Tue. 6:30pm. Vicksburg Parkside Playhouse, 101 Iowa Ave. The hilarious melodrama. Cast: actors and actresses ages six through adult, and singers and dancers ages teen through adult. There are a few parts for children and numerous parts for teens and adults. Can-can dancers must be at least in the 9th grade. Production dates: Fri.-Sat. Mar. 28-29 & Apr. 4-12, 2008. Call 601-636-0471, www.vicksburg.com/~gold
January 29 & 30 Tues. & Wed.
Crossgates Baptist Kindergarten Open House. 12-1:30pm on Tues., 9-11am on Wed. Crossgates Baptist Church, Brandon. For parents with preschoolers who will be 3, 4, or 5 years old by September 1, 2008. Parents and children are invited to visit classes and meet the staff. The Kindergarten is a state-licensed half-day preschool where children learn through hands-on activities in a Christian environment. Registration for next school year begins soon. For more information, call the church office at 601-825-2562 and ask for Jayna or Rita.
February 2 Saturday
MS Orchestra Symphony. Intimate Classics Chamber Series. Mozart by Candlelight. 7:30 Belhaven College Center for the Arts.Call601-960-1565 or visit
www.msorchestra.com for ticket information.
February 2 Saturday
Breastfeeding Class. 10am-12pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. - This class includes the advantages of breastfeeding for mother and baby, prenatal preparation, keys to successful breastfeeding and expressing and storing breast milk. Call 601-200-6934. Free.
Feb. 5 & 6 Tues. & Wed.
Childrens Exchange. 8am-7pm. Spring/Summer Children’s Clothing Consignment Sale. Northpointe Barn. 20% Sale on Wed. For Information call Sandra Smith 601-956-7626 or Dianne Robinson 601-856-2836.
February 7 Thursday
Pieces of the Puzzle Benefit. Mississippi Craft Center. Mississippi Child Development Institute and Blair Batson Children's Hospital present an evening for the children of MCDI. MCDI is a non profit school for children with autism based here in Jackson. It serves as a training facility for teachers and therapist from all over the state of Mississippi.The evenings will feature a silent auction. For sponsorship information and
tickets please contact Jennifer Curtis at 601-984-5239 or e-mail jcurtis@ped.umsmed.edu.
February 9 Saturday
MS Symphony Orchestra Pop Series.7:30pm. Thalia Mara Hall. Vocalist Steve Lippa joins the MSO in a salute to Old Blue Eyes: The Lady is a Tramp, The Best is Yet to Come, It Was a Very Good Year and more. Call 601-960-1565 or visit www.msorchestra.com for ticket information.
February 10 Sunday
Kids Valentine’s Party. 10-11:30am. Church Alive USA, 2475 Lakeland Drive. Super Kids & Super Tots celebrate Valentine’s Day kid-style while learning about God’s love for them. Games, snacks, treats, & more. Free for preschoolers and elementary. Held from during morning church service. Visit
www.churchaliveusa.com for map. Contact Cathy Dole 601-992-7000
cathy.dole@churchaliveusa.com
February 12 Tuesday
Preston Chamber Music Series. 7:30 pm. Belhaven College Center for the Arts, Concert Hall. Evening of Diamonds III – Belhaven Piano Trio: Beethoven. Experience the emotional power of Beethoven’s music live as the trio performs together and in solo performances. The composer speaks passionately through the virtuoso talents of violinist, Mr. Song Xie, cellist, Mr. Bennett Randman, and pianist, Dr. Stephen Sachs. Admission $10. Doors open at 7:00 pm.
February 12 Tuesday
Kids, Kookies, & Kramps. 6pm. Baptist Madison Campus, Community Room. Children’s tummies can be the source of lots of health questions for Mom and Dad. In this free seminar, pediatric gastroenterologist April Ulmer, M.D., will talk about infants’ and kids’ gastrointestinal (GI) issues ranging from constipation to irritable bowel syndrome to rectal bleeding. Janna McIntosh, R.D., a registered dietitian at the Baptist Nutrition Center, will provide diet information. Free. To register, call the Baptist Health Line at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
February 12 Tuesday
Baby Basics Class. 7pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. This class teaches parents basic infant care and common parental concerns of the first few months. Call 601-200-6934. Free.
February 12-17
Guys and Dolls. Gulfport. Junior musical of the hit Broadway play presented by WINGS Performing Arts Program at MGCCC/Jeff Davis Campus. Call the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center for details, 228-897-6039.
February 13-16
Clifford the Big Red Dog. Popular literary and PBS character, visits the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport, 228-897-6039.
February 16 Saturday
Mississippi Opera Love in the Afternoon. Belhaven College Center for the Arts. Valentine's Day concert of love arias, duets and ensembles from the most passionate of all the performing arts. Renowned regional vocalists will perform. For more information contact the Mississippi Opera at 601-960-2300.
February 16 Saturday
Brothers and Sisters-To-Be Class. 10-11am. St. Dominic Educational Services. A special class for children ages 3-8 who are expecting a new baby in their family. Emphasis is given to the sibling’s new role as a big brother or big sister. Class includes refreshments and a small group discussion on newborns. Call 601-200-6934 for details or to register. Free.
February 19 Tuesday
Parent Academies. 6pm. Hardy Middle School. Presented by Jackson Public Schools. Parents learn about the new K-12 Language Arts and Mathematics curriculum frameworks and receive tips to help students prepare for MCT2 and SATP tests. For more information or to register, please call the Enochs Family Resource Center at (601) 960-8945.
February 20-23, 27, March 1
Servant of Two Masters. 7:30 pm, Belhaven College Center for the Arts, Flexible Theatre. This classic tale, derived from the Italian Renaissance Commedia Dell’ Arte, explores the antics and wit of the classical stock characters. Our version attempts to reproduce a typical commedia performance as it may have taken place in a Venetian public square during Carnivale in the middle of the 18th century. Arleechino strives to overcome the limits of serving two masters with a well-crafted plot of mistaken identities, disguises, and coincidental confusions, making for a light evening of entertainment for the whole family. Directed by theatre faculty member Dr. Louis Campbell. Admission is $10 adults, $5 seniors and children.
February 21 Thursday
And Baby Makes 3 Seminar. 6pm. Baptist Madison Campus, Community Room. Couples who may be starting a family soon could benefit from our free seminar. Led by OB/GYNs John R. Wooley, M.D.; James H. Crews, M.D.; and Meredith M. Travelstead, M.D., the seminar covers topics ranging from preconception care to delivery and the physical and emotional changes that will occur. Free To register, call the Baptist Health Line at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
February 22-23 Friday-Saturday
Prepared Childbirth Week-End Course. Fri. 6:30-9:30pm, Sat. 9:30am-4pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. A class that covers everything you need to know before, during and after your baby’s birth. Call (601)200-6934 to register. Cost $50 per couple.
February 23 Saturday
Infant Seat Safety Check. 12-2pm. Outside St. Dominic’s Medical Mall. Certified technicians from Mississippi Safe Kids will be at St. Dominic’s to show parents how to properly install their child’s car seat. Call 601-200-6934 for more information. Free.
February 23 Saturday
Clinton Hosts Kids Triathlon. 8:30am. The Baptist Healthplex , Clinton. Kids Triathlon for ages 7-14. The cost is $20.00 per person, and the deadline to sign up is Monday, February 18. To register call the Baptist Healthplex- Clinton at 601-925-7900.
February 23-24 Saturday-Sunday
The Annual Gem, Mineral, Jewelry and Fossil Show. Sat.9am-6pm, Sun.10am-5pm Mississippi Trademart. $5 adult, $3 student (ages 5 and under free). Visit www.msgems.org. Show Chairman Sharon McClanahan 601-956-9997.
February 28 Thursday
Grand Parenting Class. 7pm. St. Dominic Educational Services. This class for expecting or new grandparents is designed as an update on childbirth and parenting practice. Call 601-200-6934 to register. Free.
Exhibits and Ongoing Events
The Children's Museum of Memphis. Open 9 am-5 pm, Mon.-Sat., and 12-5 pm, Sun. 2525 Central Avenue, Memphis. A discovery museum for children, families and educators, designed to complement the school curriculum and encourage the curiosity and imagination of children through interactive programs and hands-on exhibits. . Admission: $7 children (1-12) and senior citizens (65+), $8 adults (13-64), and
free for museum members and children under one. Call 901-458-2678 or 901-320-3170. For a complete list of activities and coupons visit www.cmom.com.
Clinton Community Nature Center. 617 Dunton Road, Clinton Trails (non-paved) open daily 7 am until sunset. Price Hall opens 9 am-5 pm, Mon.-Fri. and 1-5 pm, Sat.-Sun. Stroll trails and see the butterfly garden, amphitheater, famous elephant tree, & gift shop and more. We offer field trips for school & home school groups. No food, pets, or smoking please. 601-926-1104 visit
www.clintonnaturecenter.org.
Eudora Welty House Museum. 1119 Pinehurst, Jackson. The museum will be shown by reservation Wed.-Fri. 9am, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Admission $5 adults, $3 students, and children under six free. Group discounts available. Call 601-353-7762.
"Draw Near" Ladies Fellowship. First Baptist Church of Fannin (at the Reservoir). Tues. 9:00am. Ladies of all ages are invited to join us for breakfast, Bible study, mission/outreach opportunities. Childcare is available free of charge upon reservation. For information call Leigh-Anne Ainsworth 601-829-2350/540-7282 or the church office 601-829-1004.
The Florence-Richland Homeschool Group. A co-operative, support organization for families offering educational, recreational, and community ministry activities include weekly park days, spelling bees, holiday-themed parties, a yearbook staff, science fairs, talent shows, special events at a local nursing home, craft days, fieldtrips, and special activities for teenagers. All homeschooling families or those interested in educating at home are invited to participate. For more details, contact Elysa Harvey MacLellan at (601)845-3432 or
jimelm@alltel.net .
Governor’s Mansion Tours. Tues.-Fri. 9:30, 10, 10:30 & 11am. 300 East Capitol Street. First occupied in 1842, the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion is the second-oldest continuously occupied governor’s residence in the United States. This Greek Revival structure was designed by state architect William Nichols, who also designed the Old Capitol. The Mansion was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975. Free. Reservations are required for groups of ten or more. Call 601-359-6421. www.mdah.state.ms.us.
Jackson Audubon Society Family Bird Walk. 8-10 am, first Sat., monthly, except Dec. & Jan. Each walk led by an experienced JAS member. Look and listen for birds along the nature trails.Binoculars available for loan, call to reserve a pair. Children accompanied by adults welcome. $3 park admission. Call 601-956-7444 or visit website
www.dreamwater.org/jxnaudubon
The Jackson Zoo. 9 am-5 pm. Admission: Friends of the Zoo free; children under 2 free; child 2-12 $2.95; adult 13+ $5.80; senior 65+ $4.65. Groups with 15 or more contact 601-352-2586 for special rates and reservations. Minimum of 15 paying children 2-18. Children under 2 will not be counted toward the 15 person minimum. Parking $1, Rides train $2, carousel $2. Strollers from $4-8. Call 601-352-2581.
Free Health Screenings at Lakeview Family Medical Clinic. 65 Lakeview Drive, Clinton. Tues. 5-7pm. & Thurs. 7-9am. Screenings include blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose. Kirby Orme, M.D., a family medicine practitioner on the medical staff at CMMC. No appointment is necessary. Contact the clinic at 601-924-1744.
The Little Light House. Volunteers needed. Tuition-free Christian Developmental Center for children age birth to six with special needs and developmental delays. Volunteer opportunities available, assist teachers with helping children in circle time, snack, lunch, and interacting one-on-one with the children in a supervised setting. Call 601-829-3446, or visit online to www.llhms.org.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. One of the USA's top 50 children's museums is situated on six oak-filled acres in a renovated 1915 school. Visitors can cross a creek, touch a tornado, sort shrimp, crank a crane, tromp in treehouses and much more. Tue-Sat 10am-5pm. Admission $7. Call 228-897-6039 visit
www.lmdc.org.
Manship House Museum. 9 am-4 pm, Tues.-Fri., 10 am-4 pm, Sat., 420 East Fortification St., Jackson. Free. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. 601-961-4724.
The Memphis Zoo. Hours March-Oct.9am-6pm. Nov.-Feb.9am-5pm. 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis
. Admission priceincludes entrance to all exhibits, including giant pandas.$13 Adults (ages 12-59); $12 seniors (ages 60+); $8 children (ages 2-11); Children under age 2 admitted free. Parking $3 per vehicle / Memphis Zoo Members park free. Just to name a few of the zoo’s events, Saturday Zoo School for Preschool Students, Saturday Trekkers, & Homeschool workshops. Call 901-276-WILD or visit
www.memphiszoo.org for a complete list of the Zoo’s events.
Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum. 9 am-5 pm Mon.-Sat., 1150 Lakeland Dr. Walk through, learn about and enjoy the rich past and tradition that make Mississippi. 601-713-3365 or 1-800-844-8687. www.MDAC.State.ms.us.
Mississippi Museum of Art. 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Sat., 12-5 pm Sun. 201 E. Pascagoula St. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 ages 6 through college age, under 5 and MMA members free. Students are free on Trustmark Free Tuesdays and BlueCross Free Thursdays. Seniors 60+ free on BancorpSouth Senior Salute Mondays-first Mon. of each month. Visit
www.msmuseumart.org. Special exhibition: Between God and Angels,
Angels in Italian Art through Dec.
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. 8 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri.; 9 am-5 pm Sat.; 1-5 pm Sun. LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Admission to park and museum $5 adults, $4 seniors, and $3 children. Membership $35 individual or $65 family. 601-354-7303.
Current Exhibits:
- Fish Feedings. 10 am, every Tues. and Fri.
- Creature Features. 10am & 2pm, almost every Sat. Informal live or mounted animal programs.
- Miss. Museum of Natural Science Lecture Series. 12-1pm, Rotwein Theater, First Tues. monthly. Free to Museum Foundation Members (please show card). Regular museum fee: $5 adults; $4 for seniors; $3 children. Preschool Discovery Room. General Museum visitors: 1-4 pm Mon.-Fri; 9:30 am-12 pm & 1-4 pm Sat; 1-4 pm Sun. Hands-on discovery room designed for ages 3-pre K5 is open to general museum visitors. Jan/Feb topic “Home Sweet Home – A Rotting Log!” (the study of a special habitat) Children will appreciate the diversity of animals living in rotting logs. They will understand the importance of this unique habitat. Open when a staff member or volunteer is available and schedule subject to change. Thirty minute classes are designed for groups of 10-16 children; class times are 9, 9:45, & 10:30am Mon.-Fri. Call Joan Elder for reservations, 601-351-7303 ext. 136.
- Time for Twos. 1-4 pm, second Tues. monthly. Preschool Discovery Room reserved for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Reservations not required.
- Story Time. 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15 pm Wed. for children ages 3-5.
Mississippi Olde Time Music Society Jam Session. Clinton Visitor’s Center, 1300 Pinehaven Rd. Just off Natchez Trace Parkway milepost 89. First Sunday of every month. Free. 601-924-2221.
Mississippi Petrified Forest. US Hwy 49 at Hwy 22, Flora. Open every day except Christmas. Earth Science Museum, nature trail, rock patio, picnic area, campgrounds and more. Adults $5, seniors & students $4, group rate available. Call 601-879-8189 or visit
www.mspetrifiedforest.com.
Museum of Mississippi History Traveling Exhibits Program. Due to the closure of the Old Capitol Museum, the museum division of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History has revamped its traveling exhibits program. Seven exhibits are available at this time, with several in development. For more information call 601-576-6927.
National Scrabble Association Club #427. 11 am. First & third Sat. monthly. South Hills Library, 515 West McDowell Rd., Jackson. Ages youth to senior adults. Call Juanita Washington, 662-746-6670; Danny Gatlin, 601-371-0096; or Gloria Scott, 601-355-6621.
New Stage Theatre. Reservations for its upcoming season of touring productions. These shows tour to elementary, middle and high schools as well as libraries and community centers. If interested in scheduling New Stage at your venue or for more information, please contact the Education Department at 601-948-3533, ext. 232 or
education@newstagetheatre.com.
Russell C. Davis Planetarium. 201 E. Pascagoula St., Jackson. Film and laser show admissions are Adult $6.50, Senior $5.50, Child 3-12 $4. Sky show admissions are Adult $5.50, Senior $4.50, Child 3-12 $3. Group and back-to-back discounts are available on all shows. Call 601-960-1550 or visit www.thedavisplanetarium.com . Programs, show times, and admission prices may change without notice.
Smith Robertson Museum & Culture Center. Jackson. Visit the permanent exhibits to learn more about black history. Mon.-Fri., 9 am-5 pm; Sat., 10 am-1 pm; Sun., 2-5pm. Admission: $4.50 adults, $1.50 children, $3 for seniors. For more information 601-960-1457.
Weekend Crafts Demonstrations. Saturdays. Mississippi craftsmen and artisans demonstrate their talents free to the public at the Chimneyville Crafts Gallery, Miss. Ag. & Forestry Museum. 601-981-2499. Also 10 am-4:30 pm Sat. and Sun. at the Miss. Crafts Center on the Natchez Trace in Ridgeland. 601-856-7546.
Sports
YMCA Sports Programs. Contact your local Y for details.
Dance Instruction
Ballet Magnificat! School of the Arts. Classes in ballet and jazz. Ages 3-adult. Call 601-977-1001 or visit www.balletmagnificat.com.
Dance Program, Jackson Parks & Recreation. Classes at Champion Dance Center and Grove Park Comm. Center. Ballet, jazz, hip-hop, alternative dance. 601-960-1422 or 601-960-1807.
Fencing
Fencing Club. Ridgeland Recreation Center. Develop agility, strength, speed and cunning. Introductory and beginner classes at Ridgeland High School. Call David Williams 601-853-2027.
Martial Arts
Academy of Kung Fu. Ridgeland Recreation Center. Ongoing classes for ages 4-adult. $45. Call Trey Crake 601-856-5051 or visit www.academyofkungfu.com.
Karate. Children and adults. Visit www.jacksony.org or call 1-55 Y 601-948-3090; Reservoir Y 601-992-9118; Clinton Y 601-720-2915.
Jason Griffin TaeKwonDo Academy
Two locations in town-Brandon and Ridgeland. Serving the area for over 10 years! Classes available for ages 4-60. Call 601-977-9000 for more information!
www.griffinstkd.com
Martial Arts. Judo with Dave Melton, Grove Park Community Center and Karate with Robert Lyles, Champion Gymnasium. Call Jackson Parks & Rec., 601-960-7407.
TaeKwondo. 10 am-12 pm, Saturdays, First Baptist Church, Jackson. Family Life Center. Free, except for uniform and belts. Call Glenn Odom, 601-961-5159.
Running
Mississippi Track Club. Walk or run your way into shape this year with the help of the family-friendly Miss. Track Club. 601-856-9884 or www.mstrackclub.com.
Swimming
Courthouse Pool Parties. Book your next party in our indoor heated pool at Lakeland! Our other three locations are available during the summer months. 601-932-4800.
Makos Swim Team. Year-round competition swim team. Practices at Courthouse Racquet Club in Flowood and Madison, Baptist Healthplex in Clinton, and Simpson County Athletic Club. 601-932-4800 or
www.msmakos.org
Maley Swim School. Year-round lessons in indoor pool include Waterbabies, Beginner through Advanced Strokes and Adults. Available for birthday parties. 601-898-7946.
Swimming Lessons. Health Line Wellness Center at St. Dominic's offers group and individual swim lessons for children ages 3-12. Indoor heated pool and state-of-the-art facilities. Call 601-200-4925.
Sunkist Swim Team. Year round competition swim team. Ages 5-18 Practices daily at new indoor Flowood YMCA pool, 690 Liberty Road and Clinton YMCA pool. Call 601-664-6814 or e-mail Sunkistcoach@yahoo.com.
YMCA Swim Lessons and Pool Rental. Available year-round at Flowood Family Y, 601-664-1955 and the Downtown Y, 601-948-3090. Summer lessons at Reservoir Y, 601-992-9118, and Clinton Y 601-924-5812. Call for information or visit
www.jacksony.org.
Tennis
Jackson Parks & Recreation Tennis. Year-round tennis programs, ages 4-12 and adults for different levels, Battlefield Park. Team competitions available. 601-960-1388.
Parham Bridges Tennis Academy. Various programs for different levels. Call Megan, 601-956-1105.
Ridgeland Tennis Center Junior Program. Ages 7 and up. 601-853-1115.
YMCA Tennis Lessons. Ages 5 and up. Reservoir YMCA. 601-992-9118.
Support Groups & Classes
American Red Cross Classes. For information on classes and times call 601-353-5444 ext. 114.
Asthma Support Group for Children and their Parents. Central Miss. Medical Center. Free. 601-376-2376.
Baptist’s Nutrition Center offers “Way to Go Kids®” Weight Loss Program. Way to Go Kids® is a four-week program designed to help overweight & under active kids build lifelong, healthy attitudes about food & fitness. New sessions begin the first Wednesday of each month from 3:45- 4:45pm. Pre-registration is required. For more information and cost, call 601-973-1624.
Balancing Your Busy Family. 10am, third Sat., monthly. (Except Dec.) Ryan’s (formerly Fire Mountain) Flowood. A monthly brunch/seminar for busy women (men too!). Come unwind and hear fresh ideas each month on time management, organizing your home or office, and getting your family to work as a team. Presented by Organized Your Way. Registration is requested but not required. Cost for brunch, seminar, and materials is $20. Call 601-209-3776 or visit www.OrganizedYourWay.com.
Brain Injury Support Group. 7 pm, fourth Monday monthly, St. Dominic Hospital. For patients and families dealing with brain injuries. Free. 601-981-1021.
Cancer Support Group. 9am. Second Tues. of the month. St. Dominic’s Cancer Center. Free. Call 601-200-3070.
Central Mississippi Autism Support Network. Support group meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month from 11:30am-1pm in the Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Community Room, 5 Old River Place, Suite 101, Jackson. Pam Dollar 601-594-9314.
Child Abuse Hotline. Anyone with cause to suspect abuse or neglect is required by law to report it, including lawyers, doctors, teachers and clergy. 800-222-8000.
Childbirth Classes. St. Dominic Education Services. Call 601-200-6934. Woman’s Hospital. Call 601-933-6160.
Consumer Credit Counseling. Free budget counseling; debt management. For a small donation. Appointment only. Miss. Children’s Home Society, 1900 N.West St. 601-352-7784.
Diabetes Education & Support.
- Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi. Third Sun. monthly. Support group for parents and kids; Teen support group meets every other month. 601-957-7878 for location.
- Baptist Medical Center. 10 am, first Thurs. monthly. Free support group in Medical Arts West, Ste. 410. For more information or to register call the Baptist Health Line at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
- River Oaks Hospital. Support Group Call 601-936-1052. Free.
- Rankin Medical Center. 10:30am, fourth Thurs. monthly, Fitness Plus. Free. 601-824-8445.
- Central Mississippi Medical Center. 10-11am, third Tues. monthly, Diabetes Management Center classroom, third floor. Free. 601-376-2485.
- St. Dominic Wound Center. Call 601-200-6718.
DivorceCare. Several area Baptist churches offer this video series combined with group discussion, which covers topics such as anger, loneliness, depression, new relationships, forgiveness, children, and more. Visit
www.divorcecare.com to find a workshop near you.
Epilepsy /Seizures Disorders Education & First Aid. Epilepsy Foundation of Mississippi. Epilepsy Teen Support Group. Second Thursday monthly 5:00pm, The Epilepsy Foundation of MS office, 2001 Airport Road, Suite 307 Jackson, call 601-936-5222 or 1-800-898-0291.
First There, First Care. Would you know what to do if you witness a crash? Many do not and either pass on by or become a victim themselves. This short class teaches how to spot a crash, how to stop safely, and how to give lifesaving help until help arrives. Classes offered by the Madison Fire Department. Call Lisa 601-856-8894 for class times and locations.
Fun and Friends Playgroup. 11am Mon., unless noted. Open to moms of children ages 0-4 yrs. Group membership is free, but pay admission if visiting places where charge is involved. Monthly Mom's Night Out for members. Call Kelly 601-924-6205, e-mail funandfriendsplaygroup@msn.com, or visit www.geocities.com/funandfriendsplaygroup.
Grief Support
- St. Dominic Behavioral Health Assoc. /North Campus. Call 601-200-3110.
- Compassionate Friends. 7 pm, second Tues. monthly, Fondren Presbyterian Church. Support for families who have lost children. 601-713-4357.
- Grief Support for Children. McClean Fletcher Center, 2624 Southerland Dr., Grief support center for children 601-982-4405.
- Bereavement Education/Support Group. 12pm, first and third Thurs. monthly. Hospice Ministries, 450 Towne Center Blvd. Ridgeland. Open to any adult grieving the loss of someone loved. Free. 601-898-1053.
- Coping with Terminal Illness. 6 pm, last Thurs. of each month. McClean Fletcher Center, 2624 Southerland Dr .Ongoing education support group for children/adolescents and their families. 601-982-4405.
Hearts in Motion. 8:15 am. Every Mon., Wed., & Fri. Food Court, Northpark Mall. Exercise class hosted by Baptist Heart Services in the Food Court. No registration required. For information call the Baptist Health Line 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
Home Safety Hero. Madison Fire Department teaches a class to boys & girls on home safety. What to you do in an emergency, calling 911, tips on baby sitting, what to do in bad weather, first aid tips, and how to make safer choices (seat belts, bike helmets). The kids are given a safety check list to complete and when they complete it, they get a prize! Class for children 9 and up call 601-856-8894.
Infant Loss Support Group. 7pm, first Tues. monthly. River Oak’s Hospital, Lobby Classroom. Open to family, grandparents, caregivers or anyone who has suffered the loss of an infant. Call Cathy Files with Mississippi SIDS Alliance, 877-471-7437 or 601-853-4306.
Kids with Heart! is a new support group for children born with congenital heart defects. The group’s first meeting will be held February 23, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. in The Conference room at Entergy in Magee, Miss. Tony and Karyn Tanner of Magee, Miss. had a little girl named Madilyn born with a congenital heart defect called Tetralogy of Fallot. Madilyn had open heart surgery at four months old and has since had a stent placed to enlarge her left pulmonary branch artery. “She is doing great,” said Karyn. “She will have to have more testing and more procedures in the future. We are starting this support group to help families having to face the challenges this disease brings their children. We look forward to offering positive support other families with children having congenital heart defects.” For more information and more details, call or email Karyn Tanner at 601-466-5950 or email at karyn_tanner@yahoo.com
La Leche League. 6:30pm-8pm, second Thurs. monthly, Christ United Methodist Church and 10-11:30am, third Thurs., St. James Episcopal Church Youth House, 3908 Hawthorne. Morning and evening mother-to-mother support groups for pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers. Small children and nursing babies are welcome 601-353-BABY for info, or call a local leader for breast-feeding help: Nancy 601-346-6211; Becky 601-853-6942; Paula 601-502-4813; Elise 601-924-2370. E-mail Paula Gray, famof5grays@gmail.com
Learning Disability Assoc. of Miss. Support for parents and professionals. 601-362-1667, ldams@bellsouth.net or www.ldams.org.
Mississippi Capitol Area Homeschoolers (MCAH). Support group for anyone involved in home education. The group is open to ALL homeschoolers/unschoolers as well as anyone interested in homeschooling/unschooling. No fee to join. Weekly play day, monthly field trips and other activities. Call Lynn Berthaut, 601-664-0372.
Mississippi Sickle Cell Foundation Parent Support Group. Meetings held in May, July, & Sept. on the fourth Sat. at 11am in the Blair Batson’s Children’s Cancer Conference Room, 2500 N. State St., Jackson. Kris Roberts 601-984-2707.
MOMS Club ®. An international, non-profit organization in support of stay-at-home moms. Offers playgroups, fieldtrips, MOMS Night Out, and more. If you live in Madison County call Laurie 601-859-0689 (please leave a message) or e-mail momsclubofmadisonms@yahoo.com
Mississippi Moms Connection. Visit www.mississippi-moms.com. Forums currently include: pregnancy; the stay-at-home moms group; the Dual Duty Moms (that work full time and are full time moms); the infant, toddler, school age, and teen sections; The Yum Yum room (covering topics such as breastfeeding and cooking); North, Central and South Mississippi Groups. Topics cover a wide spectrum for mom to find the guidance and support she needs. Site is completely secure; a person must be a registered user to have access to the forums and member lists. Our Administrator and Moderators thoroughly keep tabs on what's going on to keep the website a safe and fun place to hang out online.
Moms in Motion. Mon. & Wed. at 5:30 pm. Health Line Wellness Center, St. Dominic, offers a structured water fitness class thathelps maintain cardio, respiratory and muscular fitness throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. Must be at least 12 weeks into pregnancy and have a signed medical release from physician. Call 601-200-4925 for details. Cost $50 per month or free for mothers delivering at St. Dominic’s.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9-11:30am second Mon. monthly. Crossgates Baptist Church, Brandon. MOPS is an international organization that exists to encourage and equip mothers who have children under age six. Childcare is provided while moms enjoy a speaker, small group discussion, and a creative activity. Suggested donation is $5. For more information and to reserve childcare, please call Jo Hebert, 601-919-8867 or Kathy Scholl, 601-825-3255.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9-11am. The last Tues. of the month at Pinelake Church. MOPS is an international organization that exists to encourage and equip mothers who have children under age six. Childcare is available with registration. Brandye 601-955-9673, e-mail joeybrandye@bellsouth.net, or www.freewebs.com/pinelakemops.
Mothers Morning Out. Lakeland Presbyterian Church is now accepting registration for the fall/spring. Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9am-12:00 noon. Ages 6 months - 4 years. Registration fee is $95 for the year and tuition is $45. for one day and $95. for both days per month. Registration forms are online at Lakelandpres.com or can be picked up at the church office. For more information please contact Betty Hale at 601-503-4606 or the church office at 601-992-2448.
Parenting Classes. Families First Resource Center, Rankin County Human Resource Agency. 601-825-1309.
Parenting Support. 5:30-6:30 pm each Thurs., Mt. Elam M.B. Church, 701 Old Whitfield Rd, Pearl, MS. Offered by West Jackson CDC Parent Training Center. Free parenting/healthy relationship classes and fatherhood classes. An on-site mobile library is also available for participants. Refreshments are served at each session. For more information call 601-352-6993.
Pet Safety and First Aid. This class gives you tips on what to keep on hand in case your pet becomes ill or injured. Class offer by the Madison Fire Department. Call Lisa 601-856-8894 for class times and locations.
REJOICE. Support group for young mothers. First Baptist Church, Jackson. Meets during the school year Aug.-May. Call 601-949-1949 for brochure.
Reservoir Area Christian Home Educators. 7-9 pm, first Thurs. monthly. All homeschoolers welcome, not just those in the Reservoir area. 601-992-8768.
Resource Center Network. Pearl.Services include a 24-hour crisis and referral line to assist immediate needs, a home-like temporary shelter, counseling, workshops, and daycare 601-932-4198 or visit www.rcnms.org.
Sign Language for Adults. Now accepting registration for an Adult Conversational Sign Language Workshop. This fun and interactive workshop will last 2 hours and participants will learn various signs to enable communication between themselves and the hearing impaired. All materials will be provided. Actual date will be established based on registration and participation. Call 601-260-2136 or info@totssign.com.
Spina Bifida Association of Miss. Support and information for families of children diagnosed with this permanently disabling birth defect. Call 601-957-2410 or visit www.spinabifidams.com.
Teen Parent Support Class. West Jackson CDC Parent Training Center, 2485 West Capitol. Improve parenting skills and meet new friends. Consultant available. Saturdays 10am. 601-969-7232.
Tourette Syndrome Association. Mid South Office-Mississippi. Contact Sonia Bartosek at sonia_mstsa@bellsouth.net or 601-366-1766 or www.tsa-usa.org.
West Jackson CDC - Hinds County Families First Resource Center. 1060 J. R. Lynch Street, Jackson. Offering the following: free parenting classes, healthy marriage classes, fatherhood training, teen parent/teen issue classes, and abstinence workshops. There is also a walk-in resource library on site. For more information on setting up classes or workshops at your site, please call 601-352-6993.
West Nile Virus Support Group. 1pm. St. Dominic’s Behavioral Health Associates/North Campus. Last Fri. of each month. Free. Call 601-200-3110
Reading
Canton Library. Baby Bookworms-age 2, Wed. 10am; Risin’ Readers-age 3, Tues. 9:30am; Risin’ Readers-age 4, Tues. 10:30am; Risin’ Readers-age 5, Wed. 11am.
Flowood Library. After School Story Time.Tuesdays 3pm. Children K-fifth grade, stories, games and once-a-month craft. Preschool Story Times. 10:30am. Wed, & Thurs. for children ages 3-6.Mother Goose Lapsit. 9:30 & 10:30am. Mon. mornings and 3:30pm. Thurs. afternoons for ages birth-3 years.
Lemuria Bookstore Storytime. Saturdays 10-11am. Join us in Oz, the children’s section of Lemuria, for children’s books read by “The Story Lady.” Ages 2-10.
Madison Library. Risin’ Readers-ages 3-5, Tues. 10am; Baby Bookworms-ages 1-2, Wed. 10am & 10:45am.
Neighborhood Christian Centers of Jackson. Offers free after school tutoring at the following locations:
- Ash Street Center, 417 W. Ash Street. Monday- Friday, 2:30-5:30pm, K-12th grade
- First Presbyterian Church, 1390 North State Street. Tuesdays, 5:00-6:00pm, K-5th grade
- Mission First (First Baptist Church), 275 Roseneath Street. Monday-Thursday, 3:30-4:30pm, K-12th grade
- Redeemer Church, PCA, 640 Northside Drive. Wednesdays, 4:00-5:45pm, K-12th grade
To sign up for any of these locations, please register at our Ash Street location or contact Mrs. Johnnie Bruce, Tutoring Director at: 601-354-8855 or 601-366-0040. For more information visit: www.nccjackson.com.
PAWS to Read Program. Flowood Public Library. Bi-monthly, Thurs. 6:30pm next class in Jan 2008. Children reading to therapy dogs.
Parent/Baby Reading Classes. Baby Achieve offers fun-filled classes designed demonstrate hands-on reading activities that parents can perform in class and at home with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers that will lead them to read early. Morning or afternoon classes are available. Call to schedule one month of free classes through our special promotional offer 601-672-5407.
Pearl Public Library Children Events. Baby Bookworms, ages 3 & under, Tues. 9:30 am. Preschool Story Time, ages 3-6, Tues. 10:30 am. Pearl Peanuts, ages 6-12, third Wed. 4pm. Family Story Time, all ages, first Thurs. 6:30 pm. Teens, ages 13 & up, second Thurs. 6 pm. 601-932-2562.
Ridgeland Library. Rising Readers, ages 3-5, Tues. 3:30 pm. Baby Bookworms, ages 1-2, Thurs. 10:30 am. Teen Advisory Board/RPL Anime Club. For information call Jennifer Finch 601-856-4536 or e-mail jfinch@mad.lib.ms.us.
Yellow Dog Books Story Time. Wed. & Sat., 10 am. 100 Depot Drive, Madison. For toddlers and up. Each story time will usually include a crafts activity. For information call 601-605-8955.
Classes for Kids
Academy of Fine Arts. Classes in various performing arts provided for students of all ages: guitar, piano, violin, ballet, percussion, vocal classes and show choirs. Call FBC Music Ministry, 601-825-6768.
Babysitting.
- Supersitters with CPR Training. Baptist Medical Center. Babysitting for teens 11-16 with information on developmental stages, feedings, and safety. Meets quarterly. Call 601-948-1712 to pre-register.
- Childcare & Babysitting Safety. 8am-3pm, St. Dominic. Call 601-200-4925 for dates.
- Babysitter’s Training. American Red Cross, 875 Riverside Dr. Call 601-353-5444 x114.Flowood Family YMCA, ages 11-15, cost $45. Call for dates 601-664-1955.
Drama & Acting Instruction for Children & Youth. Reveillon Lodge (Site of St. Michael and All Angels' Anglican Church) between Raymond and Byram. Private coaching in acting, Shakespeare, role interpretation, auditions, public speaking and stage movement. Instructor has Master's Degree. Call 601-857-2545 for details.
Lifeguard Training. Lakeland Courthouse. $185 fee includes Lifesaving, CPR, First Aid, and AED. Call Kandy 601-932-4800 to register.
Maley Swim School. Year-round lessons in indoor pool include Waterbabies, Beginner through Advanced Strokes and Adults. Available for birthday parties. 601-898-7946.
Sibling Classes. Young children are given insight into their new role as big brother or sister, and introduced to the paraphernalia of baby care in special classes taught at hospitals where babies are delivered. Call your local hospital for more information.
- St. Dominic Education Services. Last Sat. monthly. 10-11am. 601-200-6934. Free.
- Woman’s Hospital. Bring a doll or stuffed animal. Free. For dates call 601-933-6160.
- River Oaks Hospital. Bring a doll or stuffed animal. Free. For dates call 601-933-6160.
Sign Language for Babies. We are currently taking pre-registration requests for our May Workshop. Cost is $45.00 per person and a spouse or grandparent may accompany you for an additional$15.00. Materials are provided. Visit
www.totssign.com or call 601-260-2136.
Sign Language for Preschoolers. Classes meet once a week for 30 minutes and children will learn about 10 signs in each class! It’s fun and educational. Classes begin in June and will last 6 weeks. Must have 5 participants. Call 601-260-2136 or email
info@totssign.com
Youth United Way Student Volunteer Program. Encourages and provides opportunities for community service to students in public, private, and parochial schools, ages 13-24, in Hinds, Madison, and Rankin counties throughout the year. 601-965-1355 or
www.myunitedway.com.
Health and Safety
CPR for Infants & Children.
- Woman’s Hospital. Activity Room. 6-8:30 pm, second & third Wed. monthly. AHA book included. 601-933-6160.
- American Red Cross. Adult, child and infant CPR & First Aid. Pre-registration required. 601-353-5444 ext. 114 for dates.
- St. Dominic Education Services. Call for dates 601-200-4925.
Car Seat Inspections. Madison Fire Department, Old Canton Rd or Hwy. 463, Madison. Come by and let us show you how to install your car seat correctly. Don't take chances with your child's safety.
Hearing and Speech. If you suspect a hearing loss or a speech/language problem, call Magnolia Speech School for an evaluation. 601-922-5530.
Infant Seat Safety Check. St. Dominic’s Medical Mall. MS Safe Kids technicians available to show how to properly install child’s car seat. Free. Call for dates 601-200-6934. Woman’s Hospital, Classroom A, 10am-12pm meets monthly, to register call 601-933-6160.
