In every issue, we'll highlight five area events, or more, and besides providing details - the who, what, where, when and why - we'll also give you tips on how to explore the event with your kids and suggest ways to make the events more memorable.

Do you have an idea for a "Five Things To Do..." activity? Do you and your family have a special experience exploring a special event, attraction or festival in the coastal Georgia area? Send your idea or details of your exploring tips to us for inclusion in future columns. Have pictures of your family exploring an event together? Send those, too! Mail to: Coastal Parent, P.O. Box 1088, Savannah GA 31402, or e-mail to tmruther@savannahnow.com


Mellow out to some cool Jazz at the Savannah Jazz Festival, Sept. 21-28

Sponsored by the city of Savannah's Department of Cultural Affairs/Leisure Services Bureau, the Coastal Jazz Association presents "The Evolution of Jazz," featuring a children's festival, historic lectures and festivities for all. Call (912) 756-2231 for more information.

How to explore this event

Go online to www.pbs.org/jazz/kids before the festival. On the site, kids of all ages can play the interactive jazz teaching games complete with cartoon characters and bright colors. The games teach kids about the history of jazz, the instruments, improvisation and include stories of children who play jazz. There are also parent tips to help you use the site most effectively. It's fun for parents, too!


Get out of the heat and see some live theater

Leisure Services Youth Theater presents Rogers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella" at the Civic Center on July 31, August 1-3 and August 7-9.

This timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm, and elegance. Come and be transported to the miraculous kingdom where dreams-come-true. The slipper fits. For ticketing information please call (912) 651-6782.

Leisure services Youth Theater Kids for Kids Summer presents "In Step & Up Tempo" at the Trustees Theater. The shows are free and are at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on both July 19 and 26. Call (912) 651-6782 for more information.

How to explore this event

Talk to your child about auditioning for the next Leisure Services Youth Theater play. There are acting workshops in the fall, and there will be auditions for the next shows (times and dates have not been set). Children have to be 6 years old to participate in the plays, and they must be able to read and memorize lines. For auditions, children usually sing a song, and if they don't know any songs, staff will teach them a song at the audition. For more information, check the newspaper, or the City of Savannah's website, www.ci.savannah.ga.us and look for Leisure Services.


Show community support at the 20th Annual National Night Out

On August 5, neighborhoods throughout Savannah are invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the 20th annual National Night Out event. This year's unique crime and drug prevention event will kick off in Daffin Park at 6 p.m. Council and other City officials will board the trolleys outside of the stadium. The event will include parades, block parties, cookouts, flashlight walks, contests, youth activities and anti-crime rallies. So mark your calendars now and let's give crime a going away party!

How to explore this event

Take some time over dinner or another convenient time (even riding in the car) to talk to your kids about crime before the event. Ask them questions, to lead them to think constructively and creatively about social problems. If they don't understand something- here's the time to explain it. Kids love to learn about their world. Here are some sample questions: Why do you think people commit crimes? Do you know how the justice system in America works? If you were the mayor, what would you do to make Savannah a safer place? How can you as a child make Savannah a safer place?


Make a lunch and back to school shopping date with your child

This summer take an entire afternoon out of your busy schedule and spend it shopping for school supplies, new school clothes, and talking one-on-one with your child. If you have more then one child, take each one on a "date" individually. Take time to get an ice cream, lunch, or if money is tight, have a picnic at the park. If there is an opportune moment, this is also a perfect time to sneak in some of those conversation topics that are the stuff of Ad Council commercials. Yes, I mean drugs, smoking, sex, drinking and driving, (if age appropriate), etc. Kids love to be reminded that you care about them, so if you broach important subjects like this with less tension more love - they will come away feeling more love.


These reptiles have more bite than most

July 17, July 31, Aug. 14
Getting to Know a Gator

This program from Gatorland Zoo of Orlando will feature two alligators - a hatchling and a 3-4 footer. You will learn about alligator folklore, their habits and have an opportunity to touch and hold a gator! Lots of time for photo opportunities. 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.

How to explore this event: Bring a camera and plenty of questions about anything you've wanted to know about alligators. Everyone in attendance can hold, touch or get their photo taken with a live alligator at the end. Reservations a must for this program. $10 adults, $5 children.

For more information, contact the Coastal Discovery Museum, 100 William Hilton Parkway. Hilton Head Island, S.C. 843)-689-6767, www.coastaldiscovery.org.