KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter
|
|
Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers,
When I was about four years old, I turned to my mother and asked, “Mommy, do you know what I’m thinking?” She said no, that no one can know what’s going on in someone else’s head unless they say it out loud. I was instantly relieved. “Good!” I said, emphatically. This family story points to something we all figure out eventually: No one—not even those we love most—can
truly know us completely. That’s because our minds are crowded with thoughts, memories, emotions, and those little sparks of insight that are hard to pin down for ourselves, much less explain to someone else. So no matter what, we can only really share just a slice of who we are. Some people might say that being selective about what parts of ourselves we show to different people means we're being fake, but I don't. Full transparency isn't even possible, so the goal is
sincerity. As long as what we share is true to who we are, we’re being honest. Selective, but sincere. This is especially helpful to remember during the holidays, when we’re surrounded by lots of people, sometimes all at once. Some of them we love dearly. Others... less so. So when Aunt Viv is going on (again) about the zoning board, you don’t have to confess how bored you are. Just focus on what’s real—the part you truly mean—and say that. “So sorry that's getting in your
way, Aunt Viv. But I just have to say: Your pecan pie is amazing.” So this holiday season, try to tune your radar to see the good stuff. Say out loud what you honestly appreciate. And take comfort, as four-year-old Deb once did, that no one can read the rest of what’s going on in your head.
—Debra Ross,
publisher |
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
|
|
|
Just a minute of your time could make a big impact. KidsOutAndAbout.com is conducting a short survey to better understand how families are navigating the fast-changing world of AI. We're asking all parents, grandparents, and caregivers-whether you're
tech-savvy or not-to weigh in.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The private schools in the Indianapolis area cater to every educational need and parent philosophy. This is KidsOutAndAbout's education highlight page, containing specially featured schools and also our master list of local schools. If your school is not on our list but should be, please email us at ross@kidsoutandabout.com.
|
|
|
|
Private Schools in the Indianapolis area: Try it before you buy it... and even before you visit! This is KidsOutAndAbout.com's video sneak peek into local private school experiences. If your school should have a video on this page, please send a link to the school's video on YouTube or Vimeo to ross@kidsoutandabout.com.
|
|
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout's big 2025 list of holiday events Indianapolis: Christmas concerts, lights, trees, nativities, and more. . . plus activities for Chanukah, Kwanzaa, and New Year's Eve.
|
|
|
|
Welcome to Glimmer Lights at Piney Acres Farm, presented by Gateway Hancock Health & Hancock Health and supported by GBC Bank, Joyner Homes and IMI! Young and old alike will love the spectacular journey through twinkling holiday lights on our 73 acre Hancock County Christmas tree farm - with hints of a beloved classic, featuring a magical 20-minute train ride (or tractor ride) to the North Pole. Guests will board the Piney Acres Express or Holly Jolly Tractor and enjoy a cup of our signature hot cocoa and a freshly made holiday cookie. 2025 Glimmer Lights runs 11/16-12/21, Thursday - Sunday evenings. Also, Santa will be in his Piney Acres Cabin on select evenings: Nov 16th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 28th, 29th, & 30th + Dec 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 18th,19th, 20th & 21st. Choose between The Piney Acres Express, a trackless train seating both adults and children, and the Holly Jolly Tractor.
|
|
|
|
Direct from its Off Broadway season, A Taste of Ireland The Irish Music & Dance Sensation, presents its holiday spectacular, A Celtic Christmas. Prepare to be enchanted with some of the world’s finest Irish dancers and musicians bringing the spirit of Christmas to life, in a show that will make you laugh, cry, and sing into the night. After captivating audiences across the globe, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland returns to the USA this festive season following a highly successful 2024 touring season. Experience the magic as world class performers blend melodic folk mash ups, acapella tap battles, and heartwarming storytelling in one truly unforgettable performance. Featuring former World Irish dance champions and stars from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Celtic Christmas delivers a holiday spectacular packed with Irish wit, traditional tunes and heartfelt ballads, alongside all your favorite carols. The show’s exciting mix of electrifying rhythms and extraordinary…
|
|
|
|
Free photo opportunity with a living reindeer and her festive helper in front of our 54ft holiday tree! (Bring your camera.) Multiple dates... This one coincides with our Annual Tree Lighting & Parade. The reindeer must make a swift exit at 7pm to fly out before the noise of the parade starts. Come listen to some holiday tunes played by DJ Kurt Streblow, grab a hot cocoa from Schakolad Chocolate Factory, and start the holidays with us!
|
|
|
|
Reindeer Encounter at Whitetail Acres will make this Christmas season one to remember. Imagine the thrill of actually spending time with real reindeer inside their pen as you feed treats, pet and learn all about these amazing creatures. A great experience for all ages. Free refreshments, huge Christmas gift shop, outdoor games, pre cut Christmas trees and wreaths, visit Santa Nov 29 & Dec 6. Book your Reindeer Encounter online today at www.mywhitetail.com. See you there.
|
|
|
|
Drop off your kids (ages 6+) for a fun evening while parents have some free time to themselves. Kids Night Out will include games, open gym time, activities, and more!! Snack included. *Members must contact us for discount code.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Indianapolis area offers a delightful selection of Christmas tree farms that bring the magic of the holiday season to life. Families can enjoy the cherished tradition of selecting the perfect tree while exploring picturesque landscapes and engaging in
festive activities.
|
|
|
|
|
(This list is always a work in progress: We update it continually through the season, so check back frequently!) KidsOutAndAbout is Indy's online guide to everything for kids, teens, and families!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Indianapolis area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
|
|
|
|
|
|
2025's Best Places for Kids in the Indianapolis area! Here are the Top 20 places to take kids in and around Indianapolis, based on KidsOutAndAbout's annual reader survey. Of course, there is LOTS more to do locally "out and about"! Get great ideas here at
KidsOutAndAbout.com!
|
|
|
Here's to seizing opportunities to learn wherever they appear!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
|
|
