Collin County Parents Magazine by Mary Hester

MARCH/APRIL 2011

IT'S SPRING

PROMPREP

TEACH YOUR TEENS HOW TO BUDGET FOR THE BIG EVENT

SELLINGYOURHOME LEARN WHAT TO DO TO MAKE IT HAPPEN

CONSIGNMENT TIME! SELLING AND SHOPPING: 101 LEARN THE TIPS TO GET THE BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

DATINGONADIME ROMANCE AT A BOOKSTORE

Welcome! PUBLISHER Momunity Media LLC PO Box 6824 McKinney, TX 75071-6824 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Keri Saylor keri@collincountyparents.com EXECUTIVE SALES DIRECTOR Tracy Jordan tracy@collincountyparents.com MANAGING EDITOR Wendi Schlarb wendi@collincountyparents.com CALENDAR EDITOR Jenny James events@collincountyparents.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mary Hester 2nd Floor Design Visit www.collincountyparents.com To find out where you can pick up your FREE copy or sign up for your free subscription. While you are there be sure to add your email to our weekly newsletter list. We will never share or sell your email address! For Ad Sales inquiries or to request a Media Kit email marketing@collincountyparents.com Please direct writing inquires and article submissions to editor@collincountyparents.com

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission for the publisher. The content of advertisements and editorial materials contained in this publication may not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers.

{a letter from the editor}

merican poet Ogden Nash once wrote, “ Indoors or out, no one relaxes in March, that month of wind and taxes, the wind will presently disappear, the taxes last us all the year.” This issue is dedicated to this very notion. Spring is here, but so is tax season; and so we respectfully focus on “family budgeting.” Our hope is that the content and resources we have delivered to you in this issue will help you have more time, more money, and more knowledge about what is going on within our community. It is about focusing on what is happening in our lives at the beginning of the spring season while providing useful information to help you accomplish some of the tasks on your to-do-lists and to offer some affordable ways to spend time with your family, your spouse, or yourself. By the way, there was so much information we wanted to get to you but could not fit on 24 pages, so if you would like to learn more about what is happening in March and April sign up for our newsletter, fan us on Facebook and follow us online.

H�� Paren�in�! KERI SAYLOR Executive Editor Collin County Parents

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8 tableof contents

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{features} CONSIGNMENT SELLING AND SHOPPING:101 Know the basics of selling and shopping at local consignment sales this Spring.

PROM

SELLING YOUR HOME

THE WHOLE PICTURE

An opportune time to teach financial life skills to our teens.

Learn how to pick a great real estatee agent, make your home a show home and get sold with tips from Melissa Eason.

Check out what local writer Lesley Anderson found out while on the "value tour" of Whole Foods.

{in every issue} DATING ON A DIME

A Real Bookstore; A real fun, real affordable date night!

SUPER PARENTS

Q & A

IN THE KNOW

Ask an Expert with Nancy Gold

Have you tried doing an allowance with your children? Sweet Repeats. Don't miss one of the best consignment sales of the season benefiting MOPS!

{calendar} CALENDAR OF EVENTS A local calendar of events for Parents and their children

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COLLIN COUNTY PARENTS MAGAZINE| MARCH/APRIL 2011 | 6

Four Seasons Limousine

(972) 816.1406 WWW.FOURSEASONSLIMO.NET

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T N E M N G I S N O C

WORDS BY OUR EXECUTIVE EDITOR: KERI SAYLOR

& Selling ng i Shopp

Attach your own tag with a safety pin, tagger, or zip tie. If you are looking at the garment, the tag should be on the righthand shoulder of the garment. This makes it super easy for the shoppers to find because it is where your eye naturally falls. Noting the brand of an item on the tag will also help shoppers.

s most of us are well aware, it’s consignment sale season again. There will be several sales to choose from this year and whether you decide to shop, sell or volunteer at any or all of them, we’ve got the tips you need to make your consignment experience the best!

The Basics on getting items ready to sell Take your feelings out of the pricing. Shoppers are looking to pay 30-40% of the original price of the items. You might get a little more for higher priced designer labels. Make sure that your items are clean AND in season. They should not have stains, spots, fuzz balls, pulls, missing buttons, broken zippers, or odors. If the item is just too worn, consider donating it but if you wouldn’t put it on your child chances are someone else won’t either. Missing pieces, tears, cracks and non-working items are big no-no’s, too! Presentation makes a big difference. Zip all zippers. Button all buttons. Tie all bows. Iron items if needed. Show them how cute it is! If you have matching tights, hair bows, leggings, or socks attach them securely and sell as a set. People love to get an entire outfit. Also, most places will want you to hang the garment on the hanger so that the mouth of the hook is opened to the left. Wash and/or disinfect all non-clothing items as best as you can. If something can be repaired, do so before you take it to the sale.

Some sales have the option of discounting items if they don’t sell by a certain time/day. Find out what their process is and decide if you do or do not want to let your items go at a discount. Also, decide if you are going to take unsold items home or donate them. Consignment isn’t just for the little ones! Many sales will accept clothing and other items for pre-teens and teens as well. Check their websites for details. Bottom line…..you want your clothes and toys to sell! So really take the time to make them look amazing! You bought them because you loved them, and someone else will do the same.

Tips to Make the Most of your Shopping Experience For a first timer, the consignment sales can be overwhelming, but it is worth diving in. You will find some amazing deals and can get pretty much any kid-related item you need at the sales. Take inventory. When making your shopping list, have all like items listed together and group clothing items by size, since that’s how they are organized at the sale. Group your list by your plan of attack (see below). It will help you stay focused and make the most of your time. Don’t just think about what you need now, think ahead. Will you need extra bathing suits for a vacation or are you planning on potty training in the next six months? Is there a holiday coming up that requires a special outfit? Buying early and getting a deal can save you time and money.

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Set a budget. You will most likely be tempted by the sheer amount of good deals, but stick to your list. If you find something and really have a need for it then purchase it, but only after careful consideration. Know how you will pay ahead of time. Finding out how you can pay before you go to the sale will avoid having to re-shop and potentially miss out on great deals, as items typically will not be held. Know your kid’s sizes. Spend some time before the sale having your children try on clothes. Make note of how different sizes fit. If you need to, measure your children but don’t forget to bring your tape measure the day of the sale. *Most sales will not let you bring clothes in to match sizes. Hauling your loot. Bring a laundry basket for your selections. It will save your back from carrying everything the entire time! You can also bring larger, sturdy shopping bags to carry toys, books and shoes. Things with wheels are great too. Think smaller carts, wagons and strollers. Get there early. Items can go fast and, rain or shine, there will most likely be a line on opening morning. Have a Plan of Attack. If you have larger items on your list like strollers, bikes, outdoor play equipment, etc. they can go very quickly, so we recommend checking those items out first. Sellers are usually accommodating with these items, and will set them to the side for you so you don’t have to lug them around. Also,

if you are looking for something specific in the baby equipment section (monitors, carriers, bedding, etc.), check those out next because the best deals will be gone first. Next, head to the section of clothes for your oldest child since there typically are fewer clothes that are in good condition as you go up in size, and name brands will go fast. Work backwards down your list of children and their needs. If shoes are on your list you may want to hit them before the clothes since they will be separate and also go fast. It is possible that there will be brand new shoes marked way down so even if you don’t need a pair, have a look at the end! Lastly, go to the toy section. There typically are tons of toys, so unless you are looking for a specific toy you should be fine saving it for last. Take time to decide but do NOT Hoard. If you have a few items you are thinking about in your basket that’s fine. Taking your time to check that all your items are in good shape is okay too. Snag an entire section(s) and you might get asked to leave. Everybody wants a good deal and you may not find everything you wanted, there’s enough good stuff to go around. Consignment sales are a great way to save and earn money and get incredible deals for your family. You just need to remember to be prepared, be patient, be considerate, and have fun! •

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WORDS BY O U R E X E C UTIVE E D I T O R : K E RI SAYLOR

A BUDGET & NEGOTIATION LIFE LESSON FOR OUR TEENS

e’ve heard the prom costs can range from $300 to $1000 per person. WOW! Whatever you decide that number to be; Prom is an opportune time to teach our teens some important life skills. After all, it may only be a few short years or even months until they will be out on their own and left to make financial decisions on a regular basis.

in just a few short paragraphs, we’ll wrap this up by sticking to the basics.

Developing a Budget for Prom Expenses

haves to see what extra items will fit into the budget.

Ask your teen to put together a list of items they think they will have to buy for prom. If bringing a date, have them consider that cost as well. There could be extra expenses that come up when going as a couple such as dinner and flowers.

If their ideal prom night is just too costly, gently let them know that both of you will need to find creative solutions in order to maximize their budget. In so doing, you are teaching your teen to explore nontraditional sources, a critical thinking skill that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Then sit down together and review the list. At this point you may be tempted to start reining in their expectations, but try to hold off. Have them divide their list into “must haves” (like a ticket and their dress or tux) and “would like to haves” (like a professional photographer and a limo). Once the list is completed, put your teen to work calling stores to get estimates. Encourage them to get a few quotes for each item so they have a realistic understanding of how much items cost. They should have two totals at the end, one for the must-haves and one for everything else. Since we can’t cover every scenario around the idea of who is paying for what

 Review the numbers, take into account your financial situation and how much you and your teen will each be contributing and decide an overall budget together.

places to start negotiating better deals. Have your son (or daughter) start calling these places and asking straight out if they will give a group discount. Have them double check how many people they will need to get a special deal.



Also, some places will have student discounts. Remind them to ask businesses if they offer one!

 Help them prioritize the would-like-to-

Give them ideas on how they could negotiate with friends and family. Are there siblings or friends they could borrow items from to make more money available for other things on their list? Can they do odd jobs for friends and family for extra money to increase their budget?

Subtract the must-have costs from overall budget to come up with an “extras” allowance.

Beginning Negotiations In this case, they may be able to find better pricing for items on both lists by negotiating prices. Knowing how to negotiate can be a great life skill for your teen to master. Have your teen think about what is on their list that they can do in a group. Sharing a limo service is the most obvious choice, but there are plenty of businesses willing to give discounts to large groups. Tux rentals, flower shops, hair and makeup stylists and photography are all great

Online and boutique shopping are also excellent places to try out negotiating skills. Sites like Etsy.com and EBay often have items that sellers will accept bids lower than the asking price. Last minute shopping at local boutiques can score your teen huge deals, especially right before the big night. Just remember to think about things like shipping, tailoring and fittings, and low stock options. If you start teaching your children how to budget while they are young, they will do much better as adults. Teens often want a lot without understanding the cost. Using opportunities like prom as a life lesson can help our teens become responsible young adults before they move out on their own. •

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Prom

DON’T FORGET THE SMALL STUFF!

Like having the right shoes and cuff links for the tux or an evening bag and jewelry to match a gown can be overlooked when creating the budget. Have a plan for smaller items that your teens will need. Good to Know Who pays for what? Have it worked out in advance so there are no last minute unbudgeted surprises. • Tickets - This can be a shared expense or who asked the other person can pay for both. • Attire - Both parties pay for their own attire. • Flowers - Both parties purchase a corsage for the other. • After Prom activities - Both parties pay their own way. • Limousine - A shared expense for the entire group using the limousine.

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Selling Your Home? W O R D S B Y M E L I S S A E A S ON

he spring home selling season is a hot one in our area! Sellers around Collin County are gearing up to put their best foot forward while Buyers are anticipating a variety of homes to choose from. It can be a stressful and emotional time for many families, so we have put together some great ideas to help you get a jump on the competition should you decide that it’s the right time to sell your home. Finding the Right Realtor for the Job Finding a good real estate agent / broker is essential to enjoying a painless real estate transaction. The question is, “How can you find a good real estate agent?” The best agent for you doesn’t necessarily work at the largest brokerage, close the most transactions or make the most money. Look for an experienced professional who will listen to you, conducts business in an ethical manner and knows your market. Referrals Most real estate agents stay in business because satisfied clients refer them to friends, family, neighbors and coworkers. Ask the people around you who they have used and ask them to describe their experiences with this real estate agent. Successful agents make customer satisfaction their number one priority and put their customers’ needs before their own. Try to find an agent who goes above and beyond their responsibilities.

Search Online for Agent Listings and Hit the Forums There are plenty of Web sites that will refer agents to you but that is no assurance of quality. A better bet is to Google the top real estate companies in your area, go to those Web sites, and look up profiles of individual agents at offices near you. Agents who are experienced will tell you they are but newer agents might have more time to spend with you. Look for customer testimonials but validate them as well! Use forums to ask around if your friends and family do not have recommendations. Shop your options! Attend Open Houses By going to open houses, you can meet real estate agents in a non-threatening working environment and interact with them. Collect business cards and make notes on them. If you’re thinking about selling your home, pay attention to how the agent is showing the home. Are they polite and informative; appear knowledgeable? Do they hand out professional-looking promotional material about the home? Are they trying to sell features of the home? Track Neighborhood Signs Pay attention to the listing signs in your neighborhood. Make note of the day they go up and when the sold sign appears. The agent who sells listings the fastest might be better for you than

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the agent with the largest number of “for sale” signs. Results speak volumes.

it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.

You don’t have to wait to find the perfect agent to get started on getting your house “market ready.”

Make Simple Updates. Switch out light fixtures, faucets and even bathroom hardware such as towel racks, for an updated feel with a minimal investment. Pay attention to metal finishes that are currently in style. In most cases this means anything but brass.

The Real Estate Market continues to be highly competitive. Homeowners putting their homes on the market must compete with new construction, foreclosure, short sales (pre-foreclosure) and other pre-owned homes. Buyers in the market have a lot to choose from, like what will make your home stand out above the competition? Following are a few easy steps to prepare your home for sale: Take a fresh look and view your home through the eyes of a potential buyer. Get in your car, drive around the block then pull up to your home. Make notes as you go. Is the front full of leaves and dead plants? Is there a welcome mat at the front door? Does the door need repainting or staining? Consider cranking up your curb appeal by adding some simple seasonal plants and flowers and rent a pressure washer to clean the outside of your home. Step inside the front door and continue to make notes for decluttering, touch up paint, flooring etc. Each room should be utilized for its intended purpose. A Formal Dining room should not showcase the drum set or stuffed animal collection for example. Buyers need to be able to visualize how they will live in the home. Check each room and remove furniture and accessories that are not necessary, are visually distracting or block the views of architectural details. This includes family photos, collectibles, accent furniture or maybe even large pieces such as a buffet or TV.

Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house. Arrange for storage. If your attic isn’t an option, consider asking a family member or friend if you can store items at their home. Renting a storage space or pod can be an option too, but make the phone calls now and sort this out so your home is ready to show on listing day. Selling your home can be an emotional experience but you must stop thinking of it as your home and remember that your house is now a “show home” and must be kept clean and well maintained, ready for a showing at any time. Hopefully, these tips will help you do just that and help you to find the right person to make the best impression on even the pickiest of home buyers. Happy Home Selling! •

Melissa Eason is a 17 year resident of McKinney and has been an active agent since 2006. She has been with the Hagen/ Powell Team since 2004 and loves to help families buy/sell their home in Collin County. You can contact her at 214-5785584 or email MelissaEason@KW.com.

If you have the opposite problem and can’t define a space, consider a trip to a local a furniture consignment shop. These shops offer quality home furnishings and accessories at a very economical price. You may also be able to repurpose pieces from different areas of your home to help fill in space. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-ofseason clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn out or will need to be replaced soon, such as your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do

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Words by Lesley Anderson

ypical grocery store produce travels nearly 1,500 miles before it ends up on your plate. To put that number into context, 1500 miles equates to driving from McKinney to Ontario, Canada or longer than driving to Hollywood, CA. Now consider the sheer number of grocery stores in the US and begin to imagine the environmental impact of all that travel. In honor of Earth Day 2011 and its mission to get one billion individuals to make one green change in their lives, we decided to highlight Whole Foods’ faithfulness to preserving the integrity of our planet, our animals, and ourselves. Among their seven core values, Whole Foods includes Caring about our communities & our environment. The company promotes this value by offering locally grown produceproduce by their definition that has traveled no more than- and often much less thanseven hours from the farm to the store. Shorter travel time means fewer greenhouse emissions and fresher food. Perhaps WF is best known for its organic offerings. There are too many environmental benefits of organic farming to list them all, but conserving water, eliminating pesticides, and mitigating climate change are just a few. Furthermore, their promise of “No Hormones and no antibiotics, ever” allows consumers greater control over their own health. The question often asked of Whole Foods is not about its ethical business practices but, more practically, whether or not it is affordable to shop there. As part of its commitment to local communities, the company goes above and beyond to make shopping easy, enjoyable and-yesaffordable.

Here are some of their best tips for saving money $ Always buy in season. Seasonal food is fresher and less expensive. Also, it exposes your family to foods you may have never thought to try and creates awareness of crop diversity here in Texas. $ Buy in bulk. The WF bulk section is impressive and less expensive because it uses less packaging and labor. The bulk

food items are the same quality as the pre-packaged items. Check out their fresh peanut butter and honey, too.

the picture More reasons to buy local: • promotes crop diversity and quality • creates a connection with the seasons and the producers • contributes to responsible land use • provides a greater return to the local economy Time and $$$ saving tips: • Freeze fresh fruit and vegetables when in season • Use frozen fruits and vegetables in recipes to save time-ex: frozen bell peppers • Use hash browns in recipes when cut potatoes are needed- save “chop time” Healthy pre-made lunches for your child are available for $3.99. One option includes chicken nuggets, sauce, fruit, juice and a cookie. Everything is made fresh at the store, and you can rest assured that your child’s lunch contains none of the following: artificial colors or dyes, nitrites/nitrates, added hormones or antibiotics, high fructose corn syrup or hydrogenated oils.

$ Look for the round yellow tags in each section of the store. They indicate the best value item within a certain section. For example, when trying to decide on which tortilla chips to purchase look for the yellow tag to show you the brand with the best price. $ Use coupons - YES, Whole Foods offers coupons! (in store and online at www. wholefoodsmarket.com) Sign up to have them emailed to you. $ Utilize their newsletter the Whole Deal. This little gem does all the work for you. It offers: • Healthy recipes with nutritional values, dietary notations like dairy free or vegetarian, and cost per serving. All of the recipes in the January/February issue cost less than $4.00 per serving. • 7- day healthy meal planner - take the guess work out of making dinner. • Sure Deals! These are everyday value priced items like 365 Everyday Value (WF brand) Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena- $5.69 (500ml bottle). • Money-Saving, Time-Saving, HealthSaving Tips • Learn to cook- learn to save section: offers suggested foods and the price per serving. $ Take advantage of sales and stock up. Check out the sale flyer that highlights the week’s best deals. Not only will it help you save money but it also informs you where the food originated. $ Buy the Whole Foods 365 brand. It is consistently less expensive and the quality is superb. $ Buy WF 365 brand frozen fish and chicken: their frozen fish and chicken are the exact same quality as those found behind the seafood and butcher counters. The only difference is that the food is flash- frozen at the facility. You save money because there is

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less handling, packaging, and labor costs. The other benefit is that you remove only the amount you want to thaw since each piece is individually frozen. $ Dinners for 2: These packaged dinners- made at the store location- offer nutritionally balanced ready- to-eat meals. $ Friday Hot and Ready 16” pizzas- instant dinner for $9.99 $ Bundle deals in the Prepared Food section of the store. Simply put, Whole Foods bundles items that belong together and offers them to you at a discount. One recent bundle included: 1 pound of black forest ham (no nitrates/nitrites), ½ pound Swiss Cheese, your choice of mustard, and a loaf of white or wheat bread for $8.99! Take advantage of their FREE activities, too! (Check your store’s event calendar online or at the store) • Kids Club Corner - story time and snack every Wednesday at 3:30p.m. • Wine tasting and wine pairing classes • Holiday celebrations • Food tastings and recipes • Concierge service - your own personal shopper! Give WF your list and then pick up your items- it's that easy and it's free. • Kids eat free on Wednesday nights (after 5pm) with the purchase of an adult meal

•

Whole Foods locations in Collin County The Village at Fairview 105 Stacy Rd. Fairview, Texas 75069 Phone: 972.549.4090 www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/fairview/ Plano 2201 Preston Rd Phone: 972.612.6729 Plano, Texas 75093 www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/plano/ You may also contact WF through Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, or the WF blog.

Datingon a dime

at A Real Bookstore W ords by L esley A nderson

When my husband and I first met, I didn’t care what we did as long as we did it together. One of my favorite dates was ice fishing in sub -zero weather with a wind that blew so hard my shanty did cartwheels across the lake. What I remember from this date, though, is catching the biggest fish on the ice that day, and the mix of astonishment, pride and gratitude that I read on my husband’s face. We still talk about that date, my big catch, and the horrible weather we endured; and we both smile. The secret to this and so many of our memories together is simple: we were sharing experiences, learning about each other, and enjoying the simplicity of being together. This is still the secret to our dating success- we date outside the box- to create new experiences and memories. Brain research reveals that sharing new experiences increases dopamine and norepinephrine, pleasure stimulators in the brain. ” … couples need to tailor their date nights around new and different activities that they both enjoy, says Arthur Aron, a professor of social psychology at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. The goal is to find ways to keep injecting novelty into the relationship. The activity can be as simple as trying a new restaurant or something a little more unusual or thrilling — like taking an art class or going to an amusement park.” Our goal each issue is to give you date-night ideas that are experiential, local, and budget friendly. While the dates themselves can occur nearly anywhere, we want to highlight some of our local businesses specifically. This issue’s dating ideas take place in a bookstore. Here they are: • Plan your dream vacation together- don’t think about money, just explore. You will be amazed not only at what you learn about each other but also about geography, language, history, politics, food, currency, and culture. If you cannot decide on one dream destination then plan two- these are your dreams you are talking about. Experience them together, and do not place limits on them. • Give a book talk: Choose your favorite book from childhood, adolescence, or adulthood to share with your spouse. Discuss the theme or point of the book, the characters –even if non-fiction, why the book is so important to you, how it influenced you, or the emotional attachment you have to it (maybe a grandparent or parent read a certain book to you). • Keep it silly: enjoy a coffee or dessert in the café while you take quizzes like the ones in women’s magazines, see who can tell the funniest jokes from joke books, or share fun facts from Guinness Book of World Records or similar books.

The many reasons we chose A Real Bookstore in the Village of Fairview. • It is a local, independent bookstore - and those are difficult to find • The employees are friendly and helpful • The menu is impressive and varied, and it was specially created by chef Rick Griggs • Everything on the menu is made in-house so it is fresh. Smoothies and shakes are made to customer’s specifications from all natural ingredients without sugar or preservatives • Menu items are reasonably priced from 6.99. The most expensive item was 14.99 for Charcuterie Board- a sampling of artisan cheese and cured meats that comes with olives, pickles, mixed nuts, pears, and a warm baguette • The leather seating makes the experience most enjoyable • The wine is divine, especially while seated in a leather chair • The atmosphere lends itself to relaxing and having fun with each other Other reasons to visit A Real Bookstore: • Book signings - many by local authors • Book clubs - there is something for everyone: Romance Book Group, Youth Book Group, Business Buzz Book Group, Stich ‘n’ Lit Group. • Story time for children: Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00 and PajamaRama on Friday evenings at 7:30. Story times are aimed at preschool aged children and include a craft and a snack • Board Game night for ages 10-15 on Saturday nights from 7-9

A Real Bookstore 113 Prairie Road, Fairview, TX 75069 972-398-9888 OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.aRealBookstore.com Follow them on Facebook and Twitter Store Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm Friday- Saturday 9am-10pm SUNDAY 11AM-9PM

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March | A p r i l 2011

3 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us at 1:30 PM EVERY Thursday to relax and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. Mom’s Night Out: Movie Night! - Sing-along version of “Mamma Mia!” – 6:30pm: www.cityofallen.org Calling all Dancing Queens! Join us at the Allen Public Library for the sing-a-long version of “Mamma Mia!” for our latest Mom’s Night Out event. No childcare is provided, concessions available. Cost is FREE! 4 FRIDAY Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www.drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids & $3 skate rentals 5 SATURDAY FREE Home Depot Kids Workshop: 9:00am to 12:00pm at your local Home Depot Stores. Bring your children ages 5-12 to build a Home Depot Race Car while supplies last. Visit www.homedepot.com for more information & to find a location near you. Project MOM Summit – Richardson – 8:00am – 3:30pm: www.projmom.com Get tips on making the most of your time as a mom. Choose breakout sessions on topics that you care about! Connect with other moms and learn from each other. Be rejuvenated and inspired to go back home and find joy in the midst of your crazy world!

Shop the Expo and see exclusive products and services that are geared toward you and your interests! Join us at the Hyatt Regency North Dallas. Standard Rate ($59) Fairy Tale Castles at the Dallas Arboretum 9:00am – 6:00pm: www.dallasarboretum.org This one-of-a-kind exhibit featuring seven fairy tale inspired castles will capture the imagination of any little prince or princess and encourage literacy through classic tales like Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid! This exhibit starts TODAY and runs through December 31, 2011. Sleepover at the Dallas Museum of Science and Nature – 7:00pm: www.natureandscience.org Kids age 6 – 12 join us as we step back in time to 65 million years ago and discover amazing facts about the most fascinating creatures that ever lived! Crafts, activities and food all included in the sleepover agenda. Cost is $35/child and $20/adult chaperone. Saturday Night Rec n Roll 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14 8 TUESDAY Last Day for Allen Youth Basketball Registration. www.allensports.org Ages 1st grade through High School for the Spring 2011 season - Boys and Girls Leagues. National Autism Association of N. Texas Parent Network and Support Meeting – 8:45am: www.Autism-ascc.org This meeting is held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 8:45AM at the Corner Bakery in Plano. This meeting is for parents of younger children with autism. Mom & Tot Open Gym at McKinney Community Center -10:30am – 1:30pm: www. mckinneytexas.org Kids 5 years and under come and enjoy our gym during this special

time just for parents and their little ones! Cost is $1 per walking child. Special Need’s Tot’s Open Gym-McKinney Community Center – 1:30 - 3:00pm: www.mckinneytexas.org Open gym that is geared towards children with special needs and their caregivers, but all ages and abilities are welcome! The cost is $1 per child. 9 WEDNESDAY Techno Tweens at Parr Library – 3:30 – 5:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids in grades 4 - 8, come join us for some techno fun. This is for those who want to just come hang out, eat snacks and play video games! 10 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us at 1:30 PM EVERY Thursday to relax and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. 11 FRIDAY Showing of Ramona and Beezus at the Davis Library – 11:30am: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us at 11:30AM at the Davis Library for a showing of Ramona and Beezus! Pizza and Movie night at The Edge Visitor Center – 6:00 – 9:00pm: www.allenparks.org For ages 10 - 18 years. Join us in the media room at The Edge Visitor Center and enjoy an extreme sport video with your friends. Edge Staff will play a variety of extreme sport videos (Skateboard, ILine and BMX) as well as have pizza for sale. Parent’s Night Out! – 6:30 – 9:30pm: Register online at www.friscofun.org For ages 7-13. Drop your kids off at the Frisco Athletic Center for some fun while you enjoy a night out! Cost is $22 Siblings - $17 “We Are Family”-Families That Play Together Series – 6:30 – 8:30pm: Register online at www.allenparks.org Forget American Idol at karaoke night, we can

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MARCH 2011

2 WEDNESDAY The Knack FREE Family Event – Make it Take it Bookmark – 10am to Noon - Join the Dr. Seuss® Birthday Celebration. Come make your own festive bookmark creations. While supplies last. Ages 3 and up welcome. Visit www.michaels.com for more information.

Calendar of Events

MARCH 2011

all be stars!! Join us for a fun evening full of laughter and song! Cost is $10/FREE for Families that Play Together Pass Holders. Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids & $3 - skate rentals. 12 SATURDAY Edible Festival at Calloway’s Nursery - 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. The Edible Festival event is free. Attend this event at any Calloway’s Nursery in DFW. Visit with vegetables and herb garden experts, win prizes and more. Growing your own food can be fun! Lowes Build & Grow Clinic-Shoot around Basketball - 10:00am: www.lowesbuildandgrow.com It’s tournament time! Your child will love challenging their friends to a game of shoot around basketball! Register online. FREE! Second Saturdays in Downtown McKinney – 7:00pm: www.mckinneytexas.org Come enjoy an evening of art, shopping, music, food and spirits in Historic Downtown McKinney. Explore local art galleries, listen to great local and regional talent and taste some of the areas best eateries. Many places in downtown McKinney will keep their doors open from 7 – 10 p.m. 14 MONDAY-SPRING BREAK Frisco Fire Safety Town Spring Break Events – 9am – 6pm: www.friscotexas.gov/ safetytown Art Week at Davis Library – 2:00 – 3:00pm: www.planolibrary.com If you are in grades 3 through 6 and love art, join us during Spring Break and learn about famous artists and make paintings, sculptures, and mobiles in their styles. Library Legos at the Parr Library- 2:003:30pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us for fun building and playing with lots of Legos! Spring Break Fine Art Camp – 2:00 – 4:45pm: Register online at www.allenparks. org For ages 5-13. The young artist will complete 8 spring themed amazing works

using fine art principles and 5 different mediums. Cost is $15. 15 TUESDAY-SPRING BREAK Frisco Fire Safety Town Spring Break Events – 9am – 6pm: www.friscotexas.gov/ safetytown National Autism Association of N. Texas Parent Network and Support Meeting – 11:30am: www.Autism-ascc.org This meeting is held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Corner Bakery in Plano. This meeting is for parents of children of all ages with autism. Art Week at Davis Library – 2:00 – 3:00pm: www.planolibrary.com If you are in grades 3 through 6 and love art, join us during Spring Break and learn about famous artists and make paintings, sculptures, and mobiles in their styles. Showing of Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron at the Schimelpfenig Library – 2:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us for a showing of Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron. Spring Break Fine Art Camp – 2:00 – 4:45pm: Register online at www.allenparks. org For ages 5-13. The young artist will complete 8 spring themed amazing works using fine art principles and 5 different mediums. Cost is $15. Blockheads Lego Club at the Frisco Public Library – 3:00 – 4:00pm: www. friscolibrary. com For grades 3 through 5. Join us in exploring fun topics and constructing Lego related creations! Register online and cost is FREE! 16 WEDNESDAY-SPRING BREAK Frisco Fire Safety Town Spring Break Events – 9am – 6pm: www.friscotexas.gov/ safetytown Art Week at Davis Library – 2:00 – 3:00pm: www.planolibrary.com If you are

in grades 3 through 6 and love art, join us during Spring Break and learn about famous artists and make paintings, sculptures, and mobiles in their styles. Library Legos; the Schimelpfenig Library - 2:00-3:30pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us for fun building and playing with lots of Legos! Camp Half Blood at the Parr Library2:00pm: www.planolibrary.com If you are in grades 4 through 12, please join us and watch Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief. Make a Camp HalfBlood necklace and eat snacks. Spring Break Fine Art Camp – 2:00 – 4:45pm: Register online at www.allenparks. org For ages 5-13. The young artist will complete 8 spring themed amazing works using fine art principles and 5 different mediums. Cost is $15. 17 THURSDAY – SPRING BREAK Frisco Fire Safety Town Spring Break Events – 9am – 6pm: www.friscotexas.gov/ safetytown Art Week at Davis Library – 2:00 – 3:00pm: www.planolibrary.com If you are in grades 3 through 6 and love art, join us during Spring Break and learn about famous artists and make paintings, sculptures, and mobiles in their styles. Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us at 1:30 PM EVERY Thursday to relax and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. Toy Story 3 at the Haggard Library- 11:30am www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us and watch Toy Story 3. Spring Break Fine Art Camp – 2:00 – 4:45pm: Register online at www.allenparks. org For ages 5-13. The young artist will complete 8 spring themed amazing works using fine art principles and 5 different mediums. Cost is $15.

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Do you love your acid-wash jeans? Live on a steady diet of Pop Rocks? If you are in grades 6 through 12, join us for an 80s movie weekend! Today we’ll be showing Ferris Bueller’s Day Off!

Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games. Cost is $7 - adults, $6 kids and $3 - skate rentals

FREE Family Night at The Edge Skate Park in Allen - 6:00-8:00pm: www.cityofallen.org An opportunity for families to bring out their small children and enjoy the skate park and the Youth Center amenities free of older influences. Children must be accompanied by at least one parent. The park will be closed to the public during the event.

19 SATURDAY Snake Encounters at Davis Library – 2:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Join Daryl Sprout, a herpetological humorist, for comedy, magic, education and live snakes! All ages welcome!

McKinney/Allen Area Mothers of Multiples Meeting- 6:00pm: Meetings are open to all AMAMOM members and visitors who have or are expecting multiples. For more information, please email us at president@ amamom.org. 18 FRIDAY – SPRING BREAK Frisco Fire Safety Town Spring Break Events – 9am – 6pm: www.friscotexas. gov/safetytown Art Week at Davis Library – 2:00 – 3:00pm: www.planolibrary.com If you are in grades 3 through 6 and love art, join us during Spring Break and learn about famous artists and make paintings, sculptures, and mobiles in their styles. Library Legos at the Haggard Library2:00-3:30pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us for fun building and playing with lots of Legos! Showing of Beauty and the Beast at Harrington Library - 2:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us for a magical showing of Beauty and the Beast! Showing of Diary of a Wimpy Kid at Parr Library- 2:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids of all ages join us and watch Diary of a Wimpy Kid! Teen Throwback Movie Festival at Davis Library – 4:00pm: www.planolibrary.com

Teen Throwback Movie Festival at Davis Library – 4:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Do you love your acid-wash jeans? Live on a steady diet of Pop Rocks? If you are in grades 6 through 12, join us for an 80s movie weekend! Today we’ll be showing Princess Bride! 22 TUESDAY Mom & Tot Open Gym at McKinney Community Center -10:30am – 1:30pm: www. mckinneytexas.org Kids 5 years and under come and enjoy our gym during this special time just for parents and their little ones! Cost is $1 per walking child. Special Need’s Tot’s Open Gym-McKinney Community Center – 1:30 - 3:00pm: www.mckinneytexas.org This open gym that is geared towards children with special needs and their caregivers, but all ages and abilities are welcome! The cost is $1 per child. 24 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us at 1:30 PM EVERY Thursday to relax and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. 25 FRIDAY Project MOM Summit – Stonebriar Country Club, Frisco – 8:00am – 3:30pm: www.projmom.com Get tips on making the most of your time as a mom. Choose break-

out sessions on topics that you care about! Connect with other moms and learn from each other. Shop the Expo and see exclusive products and services that are geared toward you and your interests! Standard Rate ($59) Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids & $3 - skate rentals 26 SATURDAY Project MOM Summit – Stonebriar Country Club, Frisco – 8:00am – 4:00pm: www.projmom.com Get tips on making the most of your time as a mom. Choose breakout sessions on topics that you care about! Connect with other moms and learn from each other. Shop the Expo and see exclusive products and services that are geared toward you and your interests! Standard Rate ($59) Saturday Night Rec n Roll – 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14 Sleepover at the Dallas Museum of Science and Nature – 7:00pm: www.natureandscience.org Kids age 6 – 12 join us as we step back in time to 65 million years ago and discover amazing facts about the most fascinating creatures that ever lived! Crafts, activities and food all included in the sleepover agenda. Cost is $35/child and $20/adult chaperone. 27 SUNDAY Doggy Day Out - Bethany Lakes/Joe Farmer Recreation Center – 2:004:00pm: www.cityofallen.org Join other dog lovers and enjoy a walk around Bethany lakes while receiving important pet health information, free local dog services and fun games for your dog! Cost is $10. 31 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee

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MARCH 2011

Play Minute to Win It at the Haggard Library! – 3:00 – 4:30pm: www.planolibrary. com Kids in grades 4 through 8 join us and play the awesome game Minute to Win It! Beat the clock and win prizes!

MARCH/APRIL 2011

Plano: Join us and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. 1 FRIDAY – APRIL FOOLS!! Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids & $3 skate rentals 2 SATURDAY FREE Home Depot Kids Workshop: 9:00am to 12:00pm at your local Home Depot Stores. Bring your children ages 5-12 to build a Planter/Basket while supplies last. Visit www. homedepot.com for more information & to find a location near you. Spring into Nash Farms - 10:00am – 2:00pm: www.grapevinetexasusa.com Play Heritage Games, Pony rides, Meet Farm Animals and Milk a Goat and much more! Cost is FREE!! Saturday Night Rec n Roll – 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14 7 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. 8 FRIDAY Pizza and Movie night at The Edge Visitor Center – 6:00 – 9:00pm: www.allenparks.org For ages 10 - 18 years. Join us in the media room at The Edge Visitor Center and enjoy an extreme sport video with your friends. Pizza will be for sale. Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www.drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and

fun games. Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids and $3 - skate rentals 9 SATURDAY Saturday Night Rec n Roll – 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14 19th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza! – 1:00 – 4:00pm: www.friscofun.org Join us at Pizza Hut Park Fields 9-14 for an Easter egg hunt, bounce houses, games, and more! FREE to the public! Teen Movie Grill at Haggard Library - 3:00 – 4:30pm: www.planolibrary.com For grades 4-8. Visit the library to submit your ballot for favorite movie. The winning movie will be shown. Not to mention grill = food! Second Saturdays in Downtown McKinney – 7:00pm: www.mckinneytexas.org Come enjoy an evening of art, shopping, music, food and spirits in Historic Downtown McKinney. Explore local art galleries, listen to great local and regional talent and taste some of the areas best eateries. Many places in downtown McKinney will keep their doors open from 7 – 10 p.m. 12 TUESDAY National Autism Association of N. Texas Parent Network and Support Meeting – 8:45am: www.Autism-ascc.org This meeting is held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 8:45AM at the Corner Bakery in Plano. This meeting is for parents of younger children with autism. Mom & Tot Open Gym at McKinney Community Center-10:30am – 1:30pm: www. mckinneytexas.org Kids 5 years and under come and enjoy our gym during this special time just for parents and their little ones! Cost is $1 per walking child. Special Need’s Tot’s Open Gym-McKinney Community Center – 1:30 - 3:00pm: www. mckinneytexas.org This open gym that is geared towards children with special needs and their caregivers, but all ages and abilities are welcome! The cost is $1 per child.

13 WEDNESDAY Techno Tweens at Parr Library – 3:30 – 5:00pm: www.planolibrary.com Kids in grades 4 - 8, come join us for some techno fun. This is for those who want to just come hang out, eat snacks and play video games! 14 THURSDAY Pictures with the Easter Bunny – 1:00 – 3:00pm: www.cityofallen.com Newborns to 6 years. Join us at the Joe Farmer Recreation Center and get your little one’s picture with the Easter Bunny! Cost is $7 15 FRIDAY Lunch with the Easter Bunny – 11:30am – 12:30pm: Register online at www.cityofallen. com For ages 1 to 10. Join us at the Joe Farmer Recreation Center for lunch and pictures with the Easter Bunny! Cost: $10/add $6 for optional adult lunch Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games. Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids and $3 - skate rentals. Lock In at The Edge Visitor Center -11:00pm – 7:00am: www.allenparks.org For ages 8 to 18 years. Join us for a fun filled night with video game tournaments to dodgeball to movies!! Concessions available and meals provided. Cost is $20/members and $25/nonmembers-register online. 16 SATURDAY Eggcellent Family Adventure -9:00am – 12:00pm: www.cityofallen.org For all ages. Bring your Easter basket for this FREE event at the Civic Plaza! 3rd Annual Texoma Earth Day Festival – 8:30am – 5:00pm: www.earthdaytexoma.org Thinking Green, Living Green - At the Sherman Munipal Grounds! 36th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Nash Farms – 9:30am – 12:00pm: www.grapevinetexasusa.com Bring the whole family out for an old fashioned Easter egg hunt. Cost is FREE Aqua Egg Hunt – 11:00am – 11:45am: Preregister online at www.friscofun.org Join us at the Frisco Athletic Center Indoor Aquatic

COLLIN COUNTY PARENTS MAGAZINE| MARCH/APRIL 2011 | 20

Incredible Bubble Show at Harrington Library – 2:00pm: www.planolibrary.com People of all ages come join us for an amazing bubble experience! Cost is FREE Saturday Night Rec n Roll – 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14

ney’s largest Easter egg hunt!! FREE to the public!

kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8.

Saturday Night Rec n Roll – 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14

29 FRIDAY Frisco Wilderness Camping with Dad/ Mom-6:00pm-9:00am: Register online at www.friscofun.org. Spend the night under the stars camping in Frisco Commons Park! Twoman tent (holds1 adult and 2 kids), sleeping bags, headlamp and meals included. Cost is $15 per person (2 and under free) Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games. Cost is $7 - adults, $6 kids and $3 - skate rentals

19 TUESDAY National Autism Association of N. Texas Parent Network and Support Meeting – 11:30am: www.Autism-ascc.org This meeting is held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Corner Bakery in Plano. This meeting is for parents of children of all ages with autism. 21 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us at 1:30 PM EVERY Thursday to relax and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are kept dimmed and babies are welcomed. Cost is $8. McKinney/Allen Area Mothers of Multiples Meeting- 6:00pm: Meetings are open to all AMAMOM members and visitors who have or are expecting multiples. For more information, please email us at president@ amamom.org. 22 FRIDAY-GOOD FRIDAY Chill Out Public Skate at the McKinney Dr. Pepper Center – 7:30 -10:00pm: www. drpeppercenter.com Come chill out at the Dr. Pepper Center in McKinney at Craig Ranch!! Featuring a DJ, free intro lessons and fun games Cost is $7 - adults, $6 - kids & $3 - skate rentals Showing of Shrek: Forever After at the Parr Library-2:00pm: www.planolibrary. com Kids of all ages join us watch Shrek Forever After! 23 SATURDAY McKinney Easter Egg-Stravaganza11:00am: www.mckinneytexas.org McKin-

Sleepover at the Dallas Museum of Science and Nature – 7:00pm: www.natureandscience.org Kids age 6 – 12 join us as we step back in time to 65 million years ago and discover amazing facts about the most fascinating creatures that ever lived! Crafts, activities and food all included in the sleepover agenda. Cost is $35/child and $20/adult chaperone. 24 SUNDAY HAPPY EASTER! 26 TUESDAY Mom & Tot Open Gym at McKinney Community Center-10:30am – 1:30pm: www. mckinneytexas.org Kids 5 years and under come and enjoy our gym during this special time just for parents and their little ones! Cost is $1 per walking child. Special Need’s Tot’s Open Gym-McKinney Community Center – 1:30 - 3:00pm: www. mckinneytexas.org This open gym that is geared towards children with special needs and their caregivers, but all ages and abilities are welcome! The cost is $1 per child. 28 THURSDAY Crybaby Matinee – 1:30pm: www.angelikafilmcenter.com Cry Baby Matinee Plano: Join us and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. The lights are

30 SATURDAY Allen Community Garage Sale – 8:00am12:00pm: www.allenparks.org Join us for community garage sale in the parking lot at the Joe Farmer Recreation Center. Saturday Night Rec n Roll – 7:00 – 11:00pm: www.allenparks.org Kids in grades 3 – 6, join us at Joe Farmer Recreation Center for gym games, dance music provided by DJ, bounce houses, dodge ball, contests with prize give-a-ways & more. Supervision provided and concessions are available. Identification card and pre-registration required to participate. Cost is $8-14 Dive-In Movie – 6:30 – 9:00pm: Register online at www.allenparks.org. Grab your swimsuit and towel and join us at the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium and be will be entertained by one of the latest and greatest movies while lounging in the pool!

Collin County Parents Magazine’s Calendar lists area activities, classes and events for children, parents and families. We encourage readers to call ahead and confirm dates and times. Send all calendar items TO events@collincountyparents.com Deadline for the April/May Issue is May 11th.

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APRIL 2011

Center for an Easter egg hunt in the pool! $12 per person/resident and $15 nonresident.

S uper P arents

Nancy Gold, Owner of the Kids Money School, gives her expert advice on kids and allowance.

iving your child an allowance can be a fantastic teaching tool if it is done properly. However, handing your child a twenty dollar bill and walking away is not an allowance. If parents aren’t committed to putting in the time and effort needed to make it work, don’t bother. For an allowance to be successful parents must set expectations, create rules, and be consistent. Without these three things, parents and children will quickly abandon their allowance systems. Steps to creating a successful allowance system: 1. Before implementing an allowance, ask yourself a few questions to help design an appropriate allowance for your child and family. • What is the purpose of an allowance? • Do you want your child to learn financial responsibility when making purchasing decisions? • Do you want to reward children for doing chores? • Do you want your children to learn how to save? • What do you want your children to utilize their allowance for? • What will they need to spend their money on (i.e. movies, clothes, food, video games, etc.)? • How much money children will receive monthly or weekly? (This will depend upon what they will need to purchase with the money.)

Depending on your answers, you will need to create an appropriate system. For example, if you want to teach financial responsibility to your children, lay out what they will need to spend their money on (i.e. toys, games, food, entertainment, clothes, etc.), how much they need to save, and how to create a budget. If you want to reward your children for

ask an expert

doing chores, you will need to tie a list of chores, time frame for completion and amount earned per chore to your allowance.

2. Set expectations with your children. Explain to your child the purpose of your allowance, the rules (i.e. parents can veto any purchase they do not think is appropriate, what they must purchase with their money, etc.) and how to budget (i.e. amounts that should be saved, spent, and given to charity). 3. Parents need to be consistent with their allowance. Always give the allowance on time. Have your children make a net worth chart that details all of their purchases and income. Have them make a budget that details their savings and charity goals. Once a month, review with your child the amount of money they are spending and saving. 4. F ind every day teaching moments with your children. When children ask the parents to purchase something, let them know they can buy it with their money. Ask them if they need or want the item. Would this purchase prevent them from getting something they really want to buy? If they don’t have their money on hand, you can lend them the money and have them repay it immediately when you get home. 5. Reinforce the fact that most people need to live within a budget. Use your experiences as teaching moments. If you are at a store and you are trying to decide if you can afford something, tell your children about it. Explain your dilemma and why you made the decision. Good luck with your allowance!

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Chime in with your thoughts on this question for our next issue: As an adult, how do you celebrate your birthday?

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Kids Money School was founded by Nancy Gold, a Frisco businesswoman with an MBA and 8-yearold twins. Nancy knew the valuable lessons her parents taught her about money when she was a child contributed to her success as an adult. She wanted to teach her own kids about money but realized she didn’t know how best to do it. Looking for guidance, she began doing research and talking to others, and she discovered that lots of other parents wanted help teaching their children about money too. When she was done, Nancy decided to share what she had learned and try to fill this unmet need, so she created Kids Money School. Nancy believes that financial literacy is one of the most important gifts you can give your children, as it can help them learn valuable life skills, think critically, live within their means, and make good financial decisions throughout their lives.

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Q &A

A. We have chores assigned to our 8 and 15 year old. They also get an allowance: $1/wk. for our younger child, $20/week for our teen. Our youngest simply puts it in her piggy bank and if she wants to buy something, we tell her she has to use her piggy money or ask for it for her birthday or Christmas. The older one is

supposed to use her allowance to buy her "luxury" toiletries and cosmetics, any clothing that isn't a necessity and general spending money. She likes to "save" her money though for more expensive clothes/boots, etc. – Natalie McKinney TX

Q. Have you tried doing an allowance with your children and if so, what has been successful or not in the process? A. I'm currently attending Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University, and he has an excellent program called Financial Peace University Jr. He teaches that you should NEVER give your kids an allowance, instead, make them work for commission. Hang a chart on the fridge that tells them what chores are worth how much, and when they do the chore, they get the amount, immediately. In addition to that, they have regular responsibilities that they do NOT get paid for. This teaches them responsibility and integrity- as adults, we have to do things every day that we do not get paid for. We will be starting this with our girls very soon. Good luck!

– Nikki G. Allen TX.

A. My perspective is that chores are done because everyone in the family needs to help out. Allowance is given to allow children to learn how to handle money. I started giving my son allowance at 3.5 because he was learning how to add and subtract and what money denominations were, and because he had started asking for toys that I didn't want to give him. He gets $1 a week: 25 cents is put into one jar, which will eventually go to his bank account, and 75 cents goes into his piggy bank to spend as he will. It’s only been 6 months, but he's already learned to save for better things, instead of getting junk out of vending machines. And, it really helps calm him down when he wants something, but I won't buy it for him. – Cynthia T. Plano TX

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