Arlington Family Page

Parents can really impact their child’s learning.  Research has shown that the more parents understand what their children are learning and the more parents know how to help at home the better children do in school. 

This web page is one way that Arlington is working to help parents support their children.  It provides parents with information and resources that can support children in a variety of ways.

The page will be updated monthly during the school year.  We would appreciate your suggestions and comments.

CONTENTS

• Community Calendar
• Learning at Home
• Family Resources
• Education and Learning web sites

MAY 2010 COMMUNITY CALENDAR

First Friday Evening
TIME
5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
SPECIAL GENERAL ADMISSION: $3 per person
AUDIENCE: All ages
Visit WonderLab, your top 25 hands-on science museum, at a discount price
during extended evening hours! Pizza ($2 per slice) and juice will be available
for purchase.

When Fri May 7, 2010
Where WonderLab Museum (map)

Science Night Live! A Totally Teen Scene
TIME
5:30 pm- 8:30 pm
MEMBERS: Free
SPECIAL NON-MEMBER GENERAL ADMISSION: $3 per teen
Hang out with friends at a teens-only happening at WonderLab! See WonderLab's
Facebook page for details and invite your friends to this event.

When Fri May 14, 2010
Where WonderLab Museum (map)

Explore Dinosaurs
TIME
1:30 pm - 4:30 pm [drop-in]
AUDIENCE: Pre-K, Elem
Why aren't there dinosaur fossils in Indiana? Find out everything you want to
know about dinosaurs through a "dino dig," touching dinosaur bones and
fossilized dung, walking the dinosaur alphabet path, and more!

When Sun May 23, 2010
Calls from the Crepuscular
Crepuscular animals are active primarily at twighlight. When the sun sets the forest comes alive with the sounds of its crepuscular and nocturnal residents. Learn to tune your ears to hear the calls of insects, frogs, and more. Bring a flashlight along for this short sunset hike.
Code Day Date Time Cost Register by

54002-A Fri. 5/7 8:30- 9:30 p.m. $2/in-city; $3/non-city 5/4

Cost: $4/in-city; $5/non-city
Ages: For all ages.
Location: Griffy Lake Nature Preserve- Meet at the boathouse.
Instructor: Sara Beatty
Caves Among Us
Explore the caves, springs and wetland area at Leonard Springs Nature Park. A variety of plants and animals call the park home, including many that rely on karst features for their survival. We will walk the one-mile loop trail during this tour.
Code Cost Day Date Time Register by

54004-A FREE Wed. 5/19 6 - 7:30 p.m. 5/18
54004-B FREE Wed. 7/21 7-8:30 p.m. 7/20
54004-C FREE Wed. 9/15 7-8:30 p.m. 9/14

Cost: FREE
Ages: For all ages.
Location: Leonard Springs Nature Park
Instructor: Kriste Lindberg
Print


Home
Government
City Departments
Parks & Recreation
Parks & Recreation Programs & Services
Parks & Recreation Classes and Programs
Programs for Youth
Outdoor Activities and Classes

Quick Links
Natural Resources Education and Volunteer Opportunities
Citizen Scientist
Travel - Spring Break rock climbing trip and Teen X-Treme Travel summer camp trips for teens
Inclusive Recreation Services for outdoor activities and classes
The Great Outdoor
For all Great Outdoors Programs:
Price is per person. Children under age 12 yrs. must be accompanied by a registered adult. Activities may be both inside and outside, so please dress for the weather.
Volunteer to Maintain our Natural Spaced or Adopt-A-Trail!
Contact Special Services Coordinator Kim Ecenberger at 349-3739 to find out how you can get involved.
Natural Resources Educator
Call our Natural Resources Educator to your event to add hands-on activities that enhance interest in our natural world. Schedule programs, classroom visits or field trips about water quality, geology, bats, bobcats, trees, wildflowers, natural art, and more! For more information contact Elizabeth Tompkins at 349-3759 or tompkins@bloomington.in.gov. A $20 fee is charged for most programs.
Citizen Scientist Certification
Parks and Recreation offers a unique opportunity for community members ages 14 yrs. and up: Citizen Scientist certification. For each level of certification, participants must attend two scheduled programs indicating a Citizen Scientist opportunity. These programs can be found in the Great Outdoors and People's University offerings. Candidates must also volunteer at least 10 hours monitoring or maintaining the city's natural areas. For more information or to receive a list of upcoming workshops and Citizen Scientist opportunities, call 349-3759.
Educator Resources
If you or your organization would like to learn more about water quality, wildlife or forest ecology, or karst topography, contact us to schedule a hands-on educational workshop. We offer instruction in Hoosier Riverwatch, Project Wild, Project Learning Tree, Project WET and Project Underground. For more information, call 349-3759 or check out these activities through the Natural Resources Education Center at http://www.in.gov/dnr/nrec.

Sunrise Paddle
Let the sun slowly warm you and listen to the peaceful sounds of life on the early morning lake. On-site registration will be available and a registered parent must accompany children under the age of 14 years. Watercraft, paddles and lifejackets will be provided.
Code Day Date Time Cost Register by

44011-D Thur. 5/6 7:30-8:30 p.m. $4/in-city; $5/non-city 5/4
54013-A Wed. 5/19 6:30-7:30 a.m. $4/in-city; $5/non-city 5/17
54013-B Thur. 6/3 6:30-7:30 a.m. $4/in-city; $5/non-city 6/1
54013-C Wed. 6/23 6:30-7:30 a.m. $4/in-city; $5/non-city 6/21
54013-D Thur. 7/22 6:30-7:30 a.m. $4/in-city; $5/non-city 7/20

Cost: $4/in-city; $5/non-city
Ages: For all ages.
Location: Griffy Lake Nature Preserve- Meet at the boathouse.
Calls from the Crepuscular
Crepuscular animals are active primarily at twighlight. When the sun sets the forest comes alive with the sounds of its crepuscular and nocturnal residents. Learn to tune your ears to hear the calls of insects, frogs, and more. Bring a flashlight along for this short sunset hike.
Code Day Date Time Cost Register by

54002-A Fri. 5/7 8:30- 9:30 p.m. $2/in-city; $3/non-city 5/4

Cost: $4/in-city; $5/non-city
Ages: For all ages.
Location: Griffy Lake Nature Preserve- Meet at the boathouse.
Instructor: Sara Beatty
Caves Among Us
Explore the caves, springs and wetland area at Leonard Springs Nature Park. A variety of plants and animals call the park home, including many that rely on karst features for their survival. We will walk the one-mile loop trail during this tour.
Code Cost Day Date Time Register by

54004-A FREE Wed. 5/19 6 - 7:30 p.m. 5/18
54004-B FREE Wed. 7/21 7-8:30 p.m. 7/20
54004-C FREE Wed. 9/15 7-8:30 p.m. 9/14

Cost: FREE
Ages: For all ages.
Location: Leonard Springs Nature Park
Instructor: Kriste Lindberg
Night Paddle
Enjoy an evening of peace and serenity on Griffy lake during the full moon. Navigate the lake, take in deep breaths of fresh air and watch the night sky light up the waters. Registration is required. Watercraft, paddles, and lifejackets will be provided. Children under age 14 yrs. must be accompanied by a registered adult. Please bring a flashlight to help you navigate once you get back on dry land.
Code Cost Day(s) Date(s) Time Register by

54001-A $6/in-city; $7/non-city Thur. 5/27 9-10:30 p.m. 5/25
54001-B $6/in-city; $7/non-city Sat. 6/26 9-10:30 p.m. 6/24
54001-C $6/in-city; $7/non-city Sun. 7/25 9-10:30 p.m. 7/22
54001-D $6/in-city; $7/non-city Tue. 8/24 8:30-10p.m. 8/22
54001-E $6/in-city; $7/non-city Thur. 9/23 7:30-9 p.m. 9/21
Cost: $6/in-city; $7/non-city
Ages: For all ages. Children under the age of 12 yrs. must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Location: Griffy Lake Nature Preserve- Meet at the boathouse.
Physics Inside and Out
Are there connections between whirlpools and water in the toilet bowl swirling down the drain? Why does dew form on your windshield and on the grass, but not other places? WHy do warm drinks swirl in a cup and why do lakes turn over in the spring and fall? Learn the science behind these "phenomenas". We'll even leave time for you to figure out a few on your own (with help, of course). Fun for kids and parents alike.

Code Cost Day(s) Date(s) Time Register by

54012-A FREE Wed. 5/26 6- 7:30 p.m. 5/19

EVENING FAMILY STORY TIME
Event Type: Main Library Children's Program
Date: Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Start Time: 7:00 PM
Description:
Stories and more. Just before bedtime! (pajamas are permitted.) Please register all attendees in advance by calling 349-3100. For preschoolers and their families.
Status: Openings

KIDS ALIVE! TELEVISION PRODUCTION WORKSHOP
Event Type: Main Library Children's Program
Date: Saturday, May 15, 2010
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Description:
Production Program for ages 10-12. Learn what it takes to make a television program. We need kids to get behind the camera and get this show rolling. Please register individual children for each pr...
Status: Openings
More Info/Register Show Similar Email a friend Notify me Print Download to calendar

KIDS ALIVE! TELEVISION PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP
Event Type: Main Library Children's Program
Date: Saturday, May 15, 2010
Start Time: 11:00 AM
Description:
Please register individual children, ages 6-12, for each program date separately.
Bring a story, song, or any type of performance (no longer than five minutes) and you can be on the show! If you don...
Status: Openings

KNIT AND CHAT WITH PAT AND FRIENDS
Event Type: Main Library Children's Program
Date: Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Start Time: 4:00 PM
Description:
If you like to knit and enjoy good books, bring your current project and join us on Tuesday evenings for cozy conversation about books you enjoy. If you are not a knitter, but would like to learn we ...

LEARNING AT HOME

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO

• Ask your child about their day at school.  Avoid questions that require a yes/no or one word answer.  Start with a phrase such as ‘Tell me about…’
• Have your child teach you.  This reinforces their learning and is a fun way for parents to find out about what their child is learning.  It also can help you pinpoint problem areas.
• Set up a specific space and time each day for homework.
• Do not hesitate to talk with your child’s teacher if your child is having trouble finishing homework or does not understand it.  If you have your teacher’s home phone number, don’t hesitate to call. 
• Stay nearby in case your child needs help or has questions.

HOMEWORK HELP

• Talk with your child’s teacher.  E-mail your teacher if you have any questions. Their e-mail can be found on our 'Staff' page.
• The Homework Center at the Monroe County Public Library.  FREE Drop-in Homework Help.  3:30-7:30pm, Monday – Thursday, 1:30 – 4:30pm, Sunday.
• Ask Rose.  Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology's Homework Hotline.  FREE math and science homework help to students in grades 6-12. Homework Hotline from 7 pm – 10 pm, September through May toll free at 1-877-ASK-ROSE or on-line at www.AskRose.org.

FAMILY LEARNING NIGHT HANDOUTS (click to download)

• Keys to Reading Comprehension
• Reading Comprehension: retelling a story

6 things to think about when reading at home with your child.

• Reading stimulates creativity in children.  Allow your child to select books that they like.
• For younger students, choose a book with pictures and simple words.  Pictures help children figure out words they do not know.  Do not cover the pictures.
• If you can – commit to 15 minutes several times a week to read with your child.  Make reading time fun.
• Talk about the story with your child.  Click the link, Family Learning Night Handouts for reading comprehension information.
• Retell the story together.  Click the link, Family Learning Night Handouts for retelling information.
• Read to your child.  Even children in grades 3-6 like this!  Reading to a child helps them build their vocabulary.

TUTORING

• FREE Reading Tutoring sessions at the Monroe County Public Library.  Weekly one-on-one 30 minute sessions. Call 349-3100 for more information.  Registration is required.

ADULT EDUCATION

• Broadview Learning Center.  FREE classes in Basic Skills, Preparation for the GED, English as a Second Language and Computers.  330-7731.  Office hours:  Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 3:30pm.

FAMILY RESOURCES

ARLINGTON SOCIAL WORKER

• Mrs. Autry, 320-7747

RESOURCE GUIDES

• The City of Bloomington provides comprehensive resource guides in English and Spanish. Click for info here.

2-1-1 SOCIAL SERVICES HOTLINE

• Don’t see what you need below?  Call 2-1-1.  A representative can provide you with the information you need.

CHILDCARE

• For a list of local childcare providers, refer to the Bloomington and Monroe County Childcare Directory.  Click here for info.
• Childcare Voucher Program.  Toll free: 1-800-886-3952, ext. 0.  Income based support through the Community Alliance and Services for Young Children (CASY).

FOOD ASSISTANCE

• Arlington Back Pack Buddies.  Arlington students bring home free food each Friday.  Contact Mrs. Autry at Arlington for more information.  320-7747
• Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard.  1010 S. Walnut.  FREE Food Pantry.  Open Monday – Friday, 4-6pm.
• Monroe County Community Kitchen.  FREE Evening Meals.

Two locations.

917 S. Rogers Street.  FREE Sit down meals, 4 – 6pm, Monday – Saturday.  Cold carryout meals available.  No income guidelines. 

Community Kitchen Express – 1100 W. 11th Street.  4 – 6pm, Monday – Saturday.  FREE hot and cold carryout meals.  No income guidelines.

• Refer to the ‘Food’ section of the Bloomington Family Resources Guide for more information.

HOUSING

• Bloomington Housing Authority.  Low income and section 8 housing.  339-3491.  Office hours:  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday:  8am – 4pm, Wednesday:  8am – Noon
• Refer to the ‘Housing’ section of the Bloomington Family Resources Guide for more information.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

• Hoosier Healthwise Program.   For low income families, pregnant women, and children. The program covers such medical care as doctor visits, prescription drugs, mental health care, dental care, hospitalizations, surgeries, and family planning at little or no cost.  Apply at Monroe County Division of Family Resources, 1787 W. Third Street.
• Volunteers in Medicine.  811 W. 2nd Street.  353-3533.  FREE adult medical clinic, includes dental and vision care.  Open Monday and Thursday: 8am – 8pm.  Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday:  8am – 5pm.
• Refer to the ‘Healthcare’ section of the Bloomington Family Resources Guide for more information.

COUNSELING

• Catholic Charities. 635 N. College.  332-1262.  Counseling for children and families.  Parent education and support programs.  Sliding fee scale based on income.
• Refer to the ‘Healthcare’ section of the Bloomington Family Resources Guide for more information.

UTILITIES HELP

• South Central Community Action Program.  1500 W. 15th Street.  339-3447.  Energy assistance, home weatherization and free trash stickers or garbage bags.
• Refer to the ‘Financial Assistance’ section of the Bloomington Family Resources Guide for information.

     EDUCATION and LEARNING web sites

Here are some links to potentially helpful educational sites. Enjoy the links....

Learning to Read Links

Helping children learn about reading - from the National Association for the Education of Young Children

Helping your child learn to read - A parent's guide

Helping Children with Learning Disabilities to Succeed - Learning To Read/Reading To Learn

Literacy and numeracy tip sheets for parents - From the Peel school district in Ontario, Canada

Parental Involvement - 100 home/school activities at the kindergarten level.  Organized by reading and literacy skills for kindergarteners. These help children develop their ability to read and write;  from the U.S. Department of Education.  first grade parents,  second grade parents,  third grade parents

Research on how parents help children to read:  by Irvine Unified School District in California

1.     Tips for Reading to Your Child

2.    Phrases that Encourage

3.    Questions that Encourage Conversation about Reading

4.    Concepts about Print

5.    Phonemic Awareness Activities For 4-5-6 Year Olds

6.    Phonemic Awareness Activities For 6-7 Year Olds

7.    Bibliography: K-3 Phonemic Awareness

8.    Ten Tips: Helping Your Child Read Effectively

9.    Breaking the Sound-It-Out Barrier

10.     Reading Tips for Parents, Primary Caregivers, and Educators

Simple Things You Can Do To Help All Children Read Well and Independently by the End of the Third Grade.

Math Help Links

Cool Math for Parents.

Drilling Multiplication Tables of 2, 3, 10, and 5 - teaching guide from HomeschoolMath

FunBrain links to math games

Helping Children Learn at Home - math and science tips for children

Helping Your Child Learn Math

Helping your child learn math - A parent guide

Math and Young Children - a list of links by age level

Math for Elementary School Kids - from Teach R Kids

Math for the Fun of It

Discipline Help Links

Discipline Help - models for handling lots of misbehaviors.

Discipline for Young Children

Positive Discipline

General Links

SafeKids Helps parents and teachers to teach children to learn to explore the Internet safely; from Microsoft.

Funbrain.com  Educational games…  

Fact Monster.com

Safe Surfing with your family from yahooligans

Parent & Child Magazine
By Scholastic; this is an online version of the magazine  

Bradford Woods – Indiana University Outdoor Center

Fifth graders at Arlington Elementary attend an overnight camping trip to Bradford Woods for 2 ½ days during the school year.  This outdoor education facility has been a part of the MCCSC curriculum since the 1950s.

Children’s Literature Links for Parents

EduHound
K-12 resources on all subject areas!

Kid Info