2016 afm jan magazine by Austin Family Magazine

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JANUARY 2016

smart parenting • healthy homes

Serving Austin’s Families Since 1992

Tips for Thank You Notes

Bringing Up Quintuplets

Weird Science!

The Latest on Peanut Allergies

The Alchemy of STEAM

ARTÍCULOS EN ESPAÑOL

INSIDE!

COVER KIDS WINNERS • CAMP GUIDE • EDUCATION GUIDE • CALENDAR

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JANUARY 2016

smart parenting • healthy homes

6 Tips for Thank You Notes

16 18

Keeping Up with the Joneses

columns

calendar

en español

44 Museum Exhibits 44 Family Events 47 Parenting Events 50 Storytimes

15 Asuntos Familiares

in every issue

43 Piensa Positivo

Family Matters

When a “Bestie” Drops Your Child

18 Lifelines

Peanut Allergy Update: The Case for Peanut Butter Sandwiches

38 The Learning Curve

Hit a Parenting Rough Patch? Take a Class!

Family Connections

Cutting the Cord: Are You Ready to Say Good-bye to Cable?

Ten Things…to Master with Your Kids!

55 Smart Screentime™ 56 Just for Grins

My Baby’s First Non-Well Check

tune in

Catch Austin Family live on “Good Day Austin” every Friday morning and “Despierta Austin” the first Friday morning of the month.

Cuando un “Mejor Amigo/a Termina la Amistad con su Hijo/a

40 Curva de Aprendizaje

¿Necesita Ayuda en la Crianza de sus Hijos? ¡Tome una Clase! Auto-profesía

Play It Safe

Product recalls

8 Around Austin 53 Kidzone

Domino Magic Trick

Where’s Jack?

Our films column has moved online! Find Jack Kyser’s take on films at austinfamily.com/category/films

extras 22 Spring Break and

Summer Camp Guides 37 Education Guide

51 Cover Kids

Contest Winners 51 Focus on Doctors

Cover Shot

Lawrence uses kitchen science to make “slime.”

Cover photographed by Nichole Renee

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New items each week. Visit our website to register.

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® BY SHERIDA MOCK

January 2016

re you ready for a new year? It’s time to put the past behind us and welcome 2016 with new energy and optimism. One way to do that is to plan ahead. It’s not too soon to start thinking about spring break and summer camps. Our annual Austin Family Magazine Camp Fair is on January 23, and you won’t want to miss it. It’s your chance to visit with camp staff—and sometimes, camp directors—for a truly personal interaction. Your children can dabble in some of the activities they’ll experience at camp: cooking, sailing, coding, martial arts, horseback riding and more. From the cerebral to the cardiovascular, we’ll have plenty of options and demonstrations. Plus, it’s the price everyone likes: free! Now, on to this first issue of the new year. Barb Matijevich brings you an in-depth look at STEAM activities—that’s the STEM you’ve heard of plus arts, combined to brain-stimulating results. And are your kids ready to write thank you notes for all those gifts they received in December? Alyssa Chirco has advice on helping them get to work. We also chatted with a couple whose family grew by five children in one day. Meet the Joneses—Ethan and Casey—who brought home quintuplets seven years ago. Their cheerful (and sane) disposition will inspire you. Plus, get up-to-speed on the latest peanut allergy news, parenting class offerings, advice for tween “bestie” breakups and more. From all of us at Austin Family Magazine, happy New Year!

Volume 23, No. 10

PUBLISHER

Kaye K. Lowak

EDITOR

Sherida Mock: editor2003@austinfamily.com

COPY EDITOR Paula Halloum

ADVISING EDITORS

Dr. Betty Kehl Richardson, Barb Matijevich

CALENDAR EDITOR

Betty Kemper: calendar2003@austinfamily.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sherida Mock, Dr. Betty Richardson, Jack Kyser, Richard Singleton, Jennifer VanBuren, Carrie Taylor, Brenda Schoolfield, Barb Matijevich and Alyssa Chirco

TRANSLATION TEAM

Maribel Ruvalcaba, Margo Vogelpohl and Pilar Korgel

ART DIRECTORS

Layout Designer: Dena Steiner Ad Designer: Jason Suarez nr2003@austinfamily.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Nichole Renee

ADVERTISING SALES

Kaye K. Lowak: kaye2003@austinfamily.com Greg Lowak: greg@austinfamily.com

BUSINESS & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Greg Lowak: greg@austinfamily.com

We are dedicated to serving the Greater Austin area by providing up-to-date information and ideas that promote smart parenting and healthy homes. We promote our clients’ businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images. Austin Family is published monthly by KKKemper Inc. Mail Address: P.O. Box 7559 Round Rock, Texas 78683-7559 Phone Number:

Tel: (512) 733-0038

On the web at:

www.austinfamily.com

Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. Austin Family and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. Austin Family does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. No portion of Austin Family may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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Play it product recalls

safe

Government Recalls Straw Tumblers, Pencil Sharpeners and Fish Bowls

PetSmart is recalling about 148,000 betta bowl kits because the glass bowl can crack, shatter or break during normal handling, posing a laceration hazard. The recall involves Top Fin Betta Bowl Kits with LED Lights, including a 0.6 gallon glass betta bowl and a base with an LED light.

Affected units were sold at PetSmart stores nationwide and online at PetSmart.com from September 2013 through October 2015 for about $25. Consumers should immediately stop using the betta bowls, safely dispose of the glass bowl and return the plastic base with power cord and adapter to any PetSmart store for a full refund. af The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission works to protect the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products.

Ignite USA is recalling about 130,000 Bueno by Contigo kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; straw tumblers because if a child chews on the drinking straw, small pieces can break off in to the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mouth, posing a risk of ingestion or aspiration of the small part. The recall involves eight different styles of plastic drinking tumblers. The tumblers were sold with a lid and a straw. Some of the straws have a plastic mold in the shape of fangs, lips, a mustache or zipper affixed to the top. Affected units were sold at Meijer and Target stores nationwide from May 2015 through September 2015 for about $6. Consumers should immediately take the recalled tumblers from children and contact Ignite for a full refund. Amax is recalling about 44,000 electric pencil sharpeners because the electric components inside can energize the pencil sharpener, posing a shock hazard. The recall involves Bostitch Quietsharp Glow Classroom and Super Pro Commercial electric pencil sharpeners. Affected units were sold at Office Depot, Staples and other office supply stores and distributors nationwide and online at Amazon.com from April 2012 through August 2015 for between $75 and $155. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled electric pencil sharpeners, unplug them from the outlet and contact Amax for a free replacement unit. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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G O T O W W W. A U S T I N FA M I LY. C O M F O R W E E K LY U P D AT E S O F A R O U N D A U S T I N N E W S

Must -Do This Month

Whooping Cough Treatment A team of researchers from UT Austin and Synthetic Biologics Inc. have developed two antibodies to potentially treat or prevent pertussis, the highly contagious respiratory tract infection that affects millions of infants around the world and results in an estimated 200,000 child deaths every year. Commonly known as whooping cough, pertussis causes painful fits of coughing and life-threatening symptoms in infants. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 16 million pertussis cases occur annually, and the disease is a major cause of infant death in developing nations. In the U.S., childhood vaccinations largely prevent the disease, but there has been an increase in incidence during the past 20 years, including several outbreaks in recent years. Antibiotics are frequently ineffective in severe cases, and there is no treatment for infants or preventive for infants too young to be vaccinated. When an infant is infected, a secretion called pertussis toxin damages the immune system and causes the infant’s white blood cell count to rise to dangerous levels and block blood flow through the lungs. The two new antibodies neutralize pertussis toxin and could be used individually or together.

Adopt a Beach Art Contest Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is calling for entries in the 20th annual Adopt-A-Beach Children’s Art Contest. The deadline to submit artwork is March 2, 2016.

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Start planning for Spring Break and Summer camps. Attend Austin Family Magazine’s free Camp Fair on Jan. 23. 2014 artwork by Edgar C.

“This competition encourages kids to learn about the Texas coast and then be creative in demonstrating what impacts them through their art.”

Warm up the family. It’s national soup month! Our favorites: tortilla soup, chicken chili and corn chowder. Learn something new. See our 10 Things article for ideas on tricky things to master along with your kids.

— Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush

“Many young students across Texas have not yet had the opportunity to visit our beautiful coast,” said Commissioner Bush. “This competition encourages kids to learn about the Texas coast and then be creative in demonstrating what impacts them through their art.” Ten winners will be chosen from each of four grade-level categories (K – 2nd, 3rd – 4th, 5th, and 6th). Commissioner Bush will select one grand prize winner from the 40 finalists. This year’s grand prize winner will receive two round-trip, coachclass tickets from United Airlines, a 7-night Caribbean cruise from Royal Caribbean International and a class party at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels.

The grand prize winner’s teacher will also receive two round-trip, coach-class tickets and a 7-night Caribbean cruise. All 40 winners will receive a ticket to the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, a ticket to the Exhibit Hall at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, a ticket to the Houston Zoo, two all-day passes to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels, a certificate of recognition and a calendar displaying the winning artwork. For contest rules and other information about the Texas Land Commission’s Adopt a Beach Art Contest, visit texasadoptabeach.org.

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Winter Weather Safety The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) urges Texans statewide to make preparations for winter weather. “Significant weather threats can emerge at any time and bring the potential for heavy rains, low temperatures and freezing precipitation,” says Nim Kidd, chief of the DPS Texas Division of Emergency Management.

designed for kids ages 5 to 8. With the app, kids can create their own interactive stories and games featuring their favorite characters from Wild Kratts, Nature Cat, WordGirl and Peg + Cat. By snapping together colorful programming blocks, children can make characters move, jump, dance continued next page

PBS KIDS debuts ScratchJr, its first coding app.

DPS offers the following tips for staying safe during winter weather: • Monitor local weather conditions. • Sign up for your local emergency notification system. • On icy roads, drive slowly, increase distance required for stopping and avoid using cruise control. • Watch for downed trees and power lines across roads. If power is out, treat all intersections as four-way stops. • Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before any trip. • Keep your gas tank full. • Avoid traveling when sleet, freezing rain or snow is predicted, and monitor road conditions by visiting drivetexas.org.

Texas DPS offers tips for winter weather preparedness.

Winterize your vehicle by checking the battery, windshield wipers, tire pressure, tire tread and fluid levels. Lubricate door and trunk locks to prevent freezing. Keep emergency supplies on hand. Winterize your home by insulating outside faucets and pipes near outer walls. Make sure furnaces, heaters and fireplaces are clean, well-ventilated and in good working condition. Visit txdps.state.tx.us for more information.

PBSKids Coding App In December, PBS KIDS released its first coding app, called PBS KIDS ScratchJr, Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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cases at the hospital’s emergency room increase during a time known as PURPLE crying, a period that is frustrating to parents. and sing. In the process, kids learn to solve problems, design projects and express themselves creatively. Download the app for free on the App Store and Google Play.

PURPLE Crying Facts Sarah Duzinski, a research scientist at Dell Children’s Medical Center, has noted that the number of head trauma

“It’s a normal part of an infant’s development, and all mammals experience it,” Duzinski says. The period runs from about two weeks to four months of age and peaks at about six weeks. The PURPLE mnemonic stands for: P - Peak of crying. Cries most in month 2. U - Unexpected. Comes and goes, and you don’t know why. R - Resists soothing. May not stop no matter what you try. P - Pain-like face. Baby looks like she’s in pain. L - Long lasting. Can last 5 hours or more. E - Evening. Cries more in afternoon and evening. As a member of the Prevention Subcommittee of the Child Protection Roundtable, Duzinski has engaged in successful legislative advocacy for abusive head trauma prevention in Texas.

Researchers at Dell Children’s Medical Center noticed that abusive head trauma cases increase during a period known as “PURPLE” crying.

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by the

numbers 36%

U.S. high school graduates who are ready for college-level science. Source: National Math + Science Initiative

9.2 million

Number of STEM related jobs projected for 2022. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

$40.69

Average hourly wage for a graduate-degreeholding STEM worker. Source: U.S. Department of Commerce

For more information about PURPLE crying, visit purplecrying.info.

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6 tips for TEACHING KIDS

to write One of the THANK YOU easiest ways for children to express NOTES thanks is through a simple, handwritten note. Unfortunately, the ability and desire to write thank you notes is becoming a lost art.

by Alyssa Chirco

When we encourage our kids to routinely verbalize their gratitude, we teach them that saying thank you is a worthwhile habit—hopefully one that will stay with them. Follow these tips to simplify the process of writing thank you notes and teach your children to appreciate both the gifts they are given and the individuals who have given them.

1 Say thank you yourself.

If you treat thank you notes as an obligation, your kids will see them that way, too. Instead, emphasize the importance of letting others know how much you appreciate their thoughtful gestures. Get in the habit of writing thank you notes yourself, and you will find that your children are more receptive to the idea of writing their own.

2 Make the notes age-appropriate.

Young children who are just learning to write may not be able to compose long, eloquent letters, but they can draw pictures or sign their name. One fun way to cut the amount of writing required is to include a picture of your child with the gift he has received.

3 Keep stationary and art supplies on hand. Designate a special thank you note box where your family stores supplies, so you are less likely to procrastinate (and then forget entirely). If you allow your kids to decorate their notes with stamps and glitter, they may be more enthusiastic.

4 Break up the work. Active children rarely want to

sit and write for hours, so avoid working on lots of notes all at once. Instead, plan several short sessions over a week or two. Make it fun by enjoying a special treat while you work.

5 Participate in the process. Even older children

are likely to need help clarifying their thoughts. Ask to see what they plan to write and offer constructive criticism. Emphasize neatness for the final copy. Yes, the kids may whine, but they will improve their writing, editing and penmanship skills.

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6 Send notes through the mail.

Many of today’s students are leaving school without ever learning how to correctly address a letter. Insisting on thank you notes is a great way to ensure that your child isn’t one of them. Writing thank you notes doesn’t have to be as difficult as we make it out to be, and it’s a great way to teach our children an attitude of gratitude. Now is the perfect time to share this valuable skill with your child—and maybe get back into the habit yourself. af Alyssa Chirco writes about parenting and family life for publications across the country. She thanks her own mother for teaching her the art of writing thank you notes at a young age.

January is National Thank You Month A new year is a great time to focus on expressing gratitude! Here are a few ways to get started: Have your kids recall all the gifts they received over the holidays, then write thank you notes to the friends and family who were kind enough to remember them. Search for veterans’ organizations or community helpers like police and firefighters in your area. Help your kids write notes thanking these individuals for their service. Instead of sending out your family’s holiday cards during the hectic month of December, try mailing “New Year Notes” in January. Include a family photo if you like, but focus on letting recipients know how grateful you are for their presence in your lives.

• • •

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BY BETTY RICHARDSON

My middle school daughter was dropped by her best friend. They were “besties” since third grade, then suddenly my daughter was excluded from her friend’s plans, and her friend won’t answer my daughter’s texts. I want to call her mother to see what we can do, but will it make the situation better or worse?

While you’re feeling your daughter’s emotional pain and want to “fix” the friendship, it’s better not to interfere. This breakup is an important learning opportunity for your daughter. Dealing with it herself—with your support—will provide her confidence and skills to deal appropriately with breakups in the future. First let’s look at some possible reasons why these two became friends and why the friendship was dropped. In third to fifth grade, close friendships are usually formed around common interests, such as sports. Although breakups can occur during this time, it’s the middle school years when children tend to find new best friends and leave old ones behind. Sometimes these breakups occur because interests change. I recall drifting away from a best friend in middle school because I stopped playing the violin. While middle school children seek friends and groups with common interests, they may also seek new people with different behaviors and interests. Preteens and teens are developing their identity around this time and try to discover through others what kind of person they want to be. And we’ve

January 2016 l austinfamily.com

all sought friends that complement our own qualities. For example, a timid person may be attracted to someone who speaks up. Is the former “bestie” just a mean girl? Probably not. It’s more likely that she has simply found new friends with interests that appeal to her. Most likely, she has figured out that choosing her own friends is one of the few ways to assert her independence. While it is helpful to have a framework for understanding how your daughter came to be dropped, it is equally important to look at ways you can help her work through this breakup. Here are some suggestions: ready to listen. Let your child • Be know you see her hurt and are

• •

willing to listen without saying anything or trying to fix anything. Offer a safe place to talk and be heard, free of worry about your reaction. Don’t offer negative comments such as “you are better off without her.” Your child may later decide it’s not true. She may need to talk about the good and bad parts of the relationship. Just listen. If your child wants to discuss the breakup on social media, suggest

• •

that she talk about or write down why this would or would not be a good idea. It’s definitely not a good idea, but you want her to figure it out for herself. Give your child some undivided attention. Consider offering your child a new activity to focus on. This activity needs to be something she’s interested in and that could lead to new friendships. It will also help your child have an outlet for energy and less time to obsess on the breakup. Model healthy behaviors in your own adult friendships, including your significant other. Ask questions rather than tell. For example, “what do you think would help you get through this breakup?”

Relationships are one of the most challenging areas of a child’s life. How your daughter meets this early challenge will affect how she manages her relationships in the future. You are a good mother to support her while you let her problem solve her way through this situation. af Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., is an Austin-based psychotherapist who specializes in dealing with the problems of children, adolescents and parents.

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BY BETTY RICHARDSON

La mejor amiga de mi hija, quien está en la secundaria, terminó con su amistad. Ellas fueron “mejores amigas” desde tercer grado, y de repente mi hija fue excluida de los planes de su amiga, y también no le responde los textos de mi hija. Quisiera llamar a su madre para ver qué podemos hacer, pero ¿hará esto que la situación mejore o empeore?

Mientras que usted está sintiendo el dolor emocional de su hija y quisiera “arreglar” la amistad, es mejor no interferir. Esta ruptura es una importante oportunidad de aprendizaje para su hija. Tratarlo ella misma—con su apoyo—le proporcionará confianza y habilidad para tratar apropiadamente con rupturas en el futuro. Primero veamos algunas posibles razones por las que ellas dos se hicieron amigas y por qué se perdió la amistad. Entre tercero y quinto grado, por lo general, las amistades cercanas se forman alrededor de intereses comunes, tales como deportes. Aunque las rupturas pueden ocurrir en este tiempo, son los años durante la secundaria cuando los niños tienden a encontrar nuevos mejores amigos y dejan las amistades anteriores atrás. A veces, estas rupturas se producen porque los intereses cambian. Recuerdo haberme alejado de un mejor amigo en la escuela secundaria porque dejé de tocar el violín. Mientras que algunos niños de la secundaria buscan amigos y grupos con intereses comunes, otros pudieran estar buscando nuevas amistades con intereses y comportamientos diferentes. Los preadolescentes y adolescentes desarrollan su identidad durante este tiempo y tratan de descubrir a través de otros, que tipo de

persona quieren ser. Y todos hemos buscado amigos que complementan nuestras propias cualidades. Por ejemplo, una persona tímida puede ser atraída por alguien que es expresiva. ¿Acaso la anterior “mejor amiga” sólo era una niña mala? Probablemente no. Es más probable que simplemente haya encontrado nuevas amigas con intereses que le gustan a ella. Lo más probable es que ella ha descubierto que elegir a sus propias amigas es una de las pocas maneras de afirmar su independencia. Mientras ayuda tener un marco para entender cómo llegó a terminar esa amistad con su hija, es igualmente importante considerar formas en que usted le puede ayudar a atravesar por esta ruptura. Aquí están algunas sugerencias: Esté preparada para escuchar. Déjele saber a su hija que ve su dolor y que está dispuesta a escuchar sin decir nada o tratar de arreglar cualquier cosa. Ofrezca un lugar seguro para hablar y ser escuchada, sin la preocupación sobre su reacción. No ofrezca comentarios negativos tales como “Estas mejor sin ella.” Su hija puede decidir más tarde que no es verdad. Ella puede necesitar hablar de las partes buenas y malas de la relación. Simplemente escuche. Si su hija quiere hablar de la ruptura en

•

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• •

las redes sociales, sugiérele que hable o escriba porque esto sería o no sería una buena idea. Definitivamente no es una buena idea, pero usted quiere que lo averigüe por sí misma. Dele a su hija atención exclusiva. Considere ofrecer a su hija una nueva actividad en la cual se puede enfocar. Esta actividad tiene que ser algo que le interesa y que podría conducir a nuevas amistades. También ayudará a que su hija tenga una salida de energía y menos tiempo para obsesionarse sobre la ruptura. Modele comportamientos saludables en sus propias amistades adultas, incluyendo a su pareja. Haga preguntas en vez de decir. Por ejemplo, “¿qué piensas que te ayudaría a atravesar por esta ruptura?”

Las relaciones son una de las áreas más desafiantes en la vida de un niño/a. La manera en que su hija lleve a cabo este desafío a tan temprana edad, afectará cómo maneje sus relaciones en el futuro. Usted es una buena madre al apoyarla mientras deja que ella misma resuelva el problema que atraviesa en esta situación. af Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., es una psicoterapeuta situada en Austin que se especializa en el tratamiento de los problemas de los niños, adolescentes y padres.

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S T E A M SCIENCE

A new educational movement to tie math, science and technology concepts to practical application is gathering momentum in Austin,, giving students the tools they need to turn theory into reality.

TECHNOLOGY

ENGINEERING

ARTS

by Barb Matijevich

MATHEMATICS

STEM Education If you’ve been paying attention to media reports on education, you know that everyone from Neil de

Grasse Tyson to President Obama has been talking about STEM programs. STEM—science, technology, engineering and math—has long been an area of focus for educational programs, particularly amid reports that the U.S. is losing ground to foreign countries with educational systems with a greater focus on hard math and science. But the emphasis on STEM programs was incomplete, according to the 2009-2012 Assessment and Teaching of 21st Century Skills (AT21CS). The initiative concluded that “today’s curricula do not fully prepare students to live and work in an information-age society. As a result, employers today are often challenged with entry-level workers who lack the practical skills it takes to create, build and help sustain an information-rich business.”

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Enter STEAM What happens when you add the arts to STEM education? You get STEAM: an educational philosophy centered around a practical, hands-on “maker” focus that applies principles learned in traditional classrooms. Around the nation, schools are implementing STEAM programs as a way of reaching out to students who have talent in STEM areas, but are disenfranchised for a variety of reasons, including the dryness and difficulty of standard STEM classes. In Boston, at the Boston Arts Academy (BAA), students and teachers are embracing the joining of arts and STEM. The BAA lab is a “makerspace”—jargon for a centrally located, community-centered creative space with digital fabrication capabilities, usually including a 3D printer. Students use the space to learn STEM concepts and then apply the concepts in conceptualizing and creating impressive high-tech finished projects—hardly traditional art products. Students produce original work using STEM, but developing high-order design capabilities. They become Makers. School adoption nationwide is still evolving, but in the creative and forward-thinking environment that is Austin, parents have a range of opportunities to give their children and teens this kind of inspirational hands-on experience.

STEAM in Action There are few more enthusiastic advocates of STEAM than Patrick Benfield, STEAM Director for St. Gabriel’s Catholic School in Austin. Benfield is the developer of a unique program called STEAM by Design, which received a Maker of Merit award at the Nation Maker Faire in Washington, D.C., and was featured at both the 2014 Austin Mini Maker Faire and the 2015 Stanford FabLearn Conference.

S T E A M SCIENCE

TECHNOLOGY

ENGINEERING

ARTS

Benfield hopes the lab will lead to a “Creative in Residence” program, where artists, hobbyists, enthusiasts and entrepreneurs from the community can use the space to create in a fishbowl experience—thus demonstrating the making process to future generations of makers.

Getting Engaged in Austin Collaboration is the cornerstone on which the maker movement is founded. Benfield is quick and generous about sharing resources for those schools or other entities looking to design and implement their own STEAM programs. “There is a book by Silvia Martinez and Gary Stager called ‘Invent to Learn,’ which is a must-read for anyone interested in making in the classroom,” says Benfield. “The authors also offer some professional development for educators.” For parents wondering how they can interest their children in STEAM programs, Benfield recommends researching maker meet-ups and attending local Maker Faires. The Austin Mini Maker Faire 2016 happens in May at the Palmer Events Center. “Also, look for other parents who have kids interested in this type of hands-on learning,” says Benfield. “There is power in numbers, and if enough parents begin to advocate for these types of programs, more programs will be implemented.”

There is power in numbers, and if enough parents begin to advocate for these types of programs, more programs will be implemented.

MATHEMATICS

“In general terms,” says Benfield, “making can be thought of as a mix of engineering-oriented concepts—like electronics, digital fabrication, and computer programming—coupled with traditional skills, such as carpentry and textiles.” In January 2016, St. Gabriel’s opens its own d. Lab for Making. “It’s a collaborative learning environment that brings together people, ideas and tools to foster a sense of community through creation,” says Benfield. “We’re helping our students make their thinking visible.” The d. Lab, besides being the first in the Austin area to serve pre-K to 8th graders, will also be documenting how this type of approach affects both teaching and learning. STEAM by Design is more than an assortment of “hands-on” activities. The hallmarks of the program include being student-centered and focused on process versus product, and there is a huge emphasis on constructing knowledge collaboratively by publicly exhibiting student artifacts. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

There are a number of other non-profit and for-profit programs accepting students for classes and camps. Stepping Stone Schools; Mad Science; Bits, Bytes and Bots; the Ann Richards School and The Thinkery all have STEAM/maker programs and a wide variety of summer camp offerings.

At Stepping Stone, kids dissect owl pellets, feed plankton and build sea creatures from recycled materials. Mad Science guides children in an exploration of how science affects the world around us. At Bits, Bytes and Bots, kids get a hands-on experience of such sophisticated skills as robotics engineering and animated movie making. Whatever your child’s interest, there’s a local STEAM program to fuel the fire.

Whether or not your child has access to a formal making program in school or a day-camp environment, parents can create mini “makerspaces” within their homes. First, designate an area that you don’t mind getting messy. Stock it with tools such as glue guns, masking tape and scissors. Gather materials such as cardboard, dowels, wood and appliances from thrift stores that can be disassembled. A simple internet search yields great ideas on what to stock. Then watch your child’s imagination at work! Barb Matijevich is a mother, freelance writer and yoga instructor based in Austin. af January 2016 l austinfamily.com

BY BRENDA SCHOOLFIELD

PEANUT ALLERGY UPDATE: THE CASE FOR PEANUT BUTTER SANDWICHES Most parents know that peanuts can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction in some people. Many schools, daycares and summer camps don’t let children bring peanut products for lunch or snack. Even Southwest Airlines won’t pass out peanuts if a passenger has a peanut allergy.

Increasing Numbers In the past 15 years, the number of U.S. children affected by peanut allergy has tripled, to an estimated 1 in 50 elementary school children. In Austin, the number of children with food allergies—particularly peanut allergy—is increasing every year, says Dr. Scott Oberhoff, an Austin physician who is board certified in allergy, pediatrics and internal medicine. “I see children with these problems on a daily basis. It is often incredibly disruptive for the child and the family.” The medical community has struggled to find a solution. Because peanut allergy develops early in life, recommendations focus on babies and young children.

Changing Recommendations In 2000, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended not

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to give peanuts to babies and young children at higher risk of peanut allergy. Mothers were advised to avoid peanuts during pregnancy and while nursing. Parents were told not to let the child to have peanuts until after age 3. But then in 2008, the AAP withdrew these recommendations because they didn’t seem to help. Earlier this year came a shocking reversal by the AAP and 10 other medical organizations from all over the world. Instead of waiting longer to introduce peanut products, the best thing is to give peanuts sooner. The reason behind this big change was new scientific research.

Global Revelation Researchers noticed that a group of children in the U.K. had 10 times the risk of peanut allergy as a similar group in Israel. Turns out in the U.K., most babies don’t eat peanut-based foods until after

age 1. But in Israel, a peanut corn puff snack called Bamba is often introduced at around 7 months. This observation led to new research published in the New England Journal of Medicine earlier this year. The important message to parents? Giving babies food that contains peanuts helps protect them from developing peanut allergy. “This research is the best guide to date for a method to prevent peanut allergy in children,” Dr. Oberhoff says. “It actually shows a big difference between kids who ate peanut products early and those who avoided it.”

When to Introduce The ideal window for introducing peanut products is between 6 and 11 months of age, says Dr. Oberhoff. “If peanut is introduced before or after this window, protection may not occur.”

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How to Introduce Peanut Products to Your Baby When. Introduce products made with peanuts during the time you start giving solid foods. The AAP recommends solid foods be introduced around 6 months of age. As with any new food, introduce one food at a time. How. Mix a little peanut butter in cereal or applesauce for a baby. For a young

child, thin the peanut butter in a sandwich with jelly, banana or something else.

How much. To limit the risk of a reaction, start slowly. Give a very small amount each time. If there are hives, vomiting, coughing or other reactions, stop immediately and consult an allergist. If there are no reactions, gradually increase the amount. In the research, babies were given a total of about one tablespoon of peanut butter each month.

Where. Some experts recommend

giving the first bite at home, instead of at daycare or a restaurant.

Don’ts. Don’t give whole peanuts to

a baby or child under 4 years old. Even if a child has teeth and can chew, whole peanuts are a serious choking hazard. Also, don’t give your child a plain spoonful of peanut butter. Peanut butter is thick and can get stuck in the throat and cause choking.

“The child’s history of reactions or lack of reaction with eating peanuts remains the most important tool in assessing risk,” Dr. Oberhoff says. “This is more important than any blood testing or skin testing that has been performed.”

How to Introduce Dr. Oberhoff agrees that introducing peanut products can be scary for parents. “One of the concerns I hear is ‘Will giving peanuts cause a reaction?’ Reactions are possible, but in the research, none of the children had a severe reaction. This is interesting because the children were selected because they were at higher risk for food allergy. This is reassuring for children who are not at higher risk.” af Brenda Schoolfield is a freelance medical writer in Austin.

GET HELP If your child is at higher risk for food allergy problems, see an allergist to discuss when and how to introduce foods containing peanuts.

“Higher risk” means:

child’s parent or sibling has a • The documented allergic condition, such as an allergy to eggs.

child has asthma, allergic rhinitis • The or eczema. child has had a reaction to • The peanut products, such as rash, cough or vomiting.

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KEEPING UP WITH THE

JONESES

The Stars of “Quints by Surprise” Turn 7 by Sherida Mock

hen Casey and Ethan Jones were ready to start a family, pregnancy did not come easily. The couple first turned to in vitro fertilization, without success. Artificial insemination, although less likely to work for most couples, worked for them right away. Their first daughter, Eliot, was born 11 years ago. A few years later, the Joneses wanted to give Eliot a little brother or sister. They again tried artificial insemination. “We figured that worked great, so let’s do it again,” says Casey. Everyone—including the doctors—was surprised to discover that Casey was pregnant with quintuplets. That day started an adventure that included starring in TLC’s “Quints by Surprise,” which originally aired from 2010 to 2014. With the quints turning 7 this month, Casey and Ethan sat down with us to talk about their lively, active life.

af:

How did you handle the news that you were expecting quintuplets?

Casey: It didn’t seem real, but it was pretty serious. The doctor gave us all the facts. He started going through everything that could go wrong. We were still in shock. We weren’t taking all that in. Ethan: One day, you would think it was great—the benefits of having a big family and how crazy and fun it would be—and then the next moment you’re thinking, “How am I going to pay for these kids?”

The Jones family is (clockwise, starting at top left): Casey, Eliot, Ethan, Ryan, Lila, Jack, Britton and Brooklyn.

Casey: When we look too far into the future, it gets overwhelming. What are we going to do when they drive?

af:

How do you cope with everyday life—transportation, sick days?

Ethan: When the kids need something, there’s such a great need. You can’t multi-task. You have to set everything aside and focus entirely on what they need. Having multiples leaves no stone unturned in changing your life. Casey: If you’ve got one or two kids, you might have to work on a school project for a few hours. For us, it takes a whole weekend to get through an assignment. They’re all due at the same time.

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Ethan: I love having a big family. I love the activity level, but one of the hardest parts is that they’re all going through the same stage at the same time.

episode. It was fun for us to have their creative energy in the house. We ended up doing 26 episodes over five years. The last one was a special on the quints’ fifth birthday.

Casey: A lot of big families have the older siblings help out. We have Eliot, and we try to be sensitive to her. There are times when we really do need her to step in and help out, and she’s awesome. But we try to not burn her out. We try to give her free time.

It’s been seen worldwide. We get messages from Australia, Asia and South America. They love our kids and our family.

af:

How has the community responded?

Casey: Without that help, I don’t know how we would have gotten it done. It started with our church Sunday school group. They rallied and asked for volunteers and put together a care calendar. People brought us food, and the church and H-E-B did a diaper drive for us, which was a huge blessing. We had a handful of neighborhood volunteers that were totally committed and I still get help from them. They’ve become family. We’ve met some really good people. It’s been a beautiful experience.

af:

Do you have any organizing tips?

Ethan: The organization is constant. We clean up the playroom every night. Casey: We’re both kind of neat freaks, so we’re just constantly cleaning and picking up. Every day, I do laundry.

In the kitchen, I’ve got a dry erase board with their names and things they need each week, like lunches. At the beginning of the week, I go through the lunch menu, and they ne day, you would think it was great—the call out if they’re bringing or buying on that day. benefits of having a big family and how

crazy and fun it would be—and then the next moment you’re thinking, “How am I going to pay for these kids?”

Tell us about the TLC show.

Each kid has their own cubby. The quints are in two bedrooms, and we rotate who stays with whom.

Ethan: The show was a lot of fun. We had a great time. The Statesman ran an article on us about a week before Casey delivered. A local production company saw the article and reached out to us. Casey: We did a lot of research on the production company and their motivation for doing this. They were a Christian-based company looking for a family show. Ethan: They wanted us to be liked. They weren’t looking for controversy. They wanted to show the real story of the challenges of this type of adventure. Casey: They were looking for a family show. It’s the number one thing we hear from people. They love the show because they can sit down with their kids and watch it.

I almost run things like a classroom sometimes. “If you have something to say, please raise your hand, because I cannot listen to six of you talk at the same time.” I can’t take six dinner orders at once.

Ethan: We just bought three pieces of Ikea furniture to help deal with all the clothes, so now we have six dressers that are devoted to the quints. Our dining room is their homework space, and we’ve got designated backpack hooks.

af:

Any last thoughts?

Ethan: We’ve got some awesome kids. They’re all having a great time. Casey: They’re all really good kids. We are blessed with their health. We are really blessed with what we were given. Ethan: And we still love each other!

It showed our ups and downs. We were very open about our struggles. Financially, it came at a really hard time. The market crashed. Ethan had just started his own business and he was in grad school. Money was tight. Ethan: They filmed for the first year, putting together the first Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

Casey: We do! We’re still married!

Find Out More:

Follow the Joneses at: JonesLife.net and facebook.com/QuintsBySurprise January 2016 l austinfamily.com

2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE DAY CAMPS Pages 22-33 • OVERNIGHT CAMPS Pages 33-34 • SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS Page 34

This month’s Camp Guide sponsored by: YMCA of Austin austinymca.org YMCA of Greater Williamson County ymcagwc.org

Customize your Camp Guide search at austinfamily.com

day camps Armstrong School of Music Summer Jazz Workshop 404 Camp Craft Rd., West Lake 512-474-2331 www.acmsaustin.org Ages 12 and up Take a look into the intuitive nature of jazz piano through an overview of its language and structure. Pianists interested in exploring the world of jazz and improvisatory playing will love this 6-week workshop with Paul Matthews!

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ATA Martial Arts Northwest Austin, Cedar Park and Round Rock 512-402-6461, 512-786-2387, 512-310-0131 www.barrettsata.com, www.roundrockata.com Ages 3 and up We provide our students a strong foundation in essential character qualities such as courtesy, respect and discipline. In addition, our programs are designed to improve motor skills and enhance a student’s ability to pay attention and follow directions.

ATX Kids Club Summer Camp Adventures Central and South Austin 512-234-KIDS (5437) www.atxkidsclub.org Ages 4 – 12 Join us for one of the most active, educational and fun summer camp programs in Austin, with a different field trip every day!

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Austin Girls Choir Austin 512-453-0884 www.girlschoir.com Ages 8 – 16 Austin Girls Choir camps include instruction on vocal skills, note reading, basic harmony and fun songs, with simple choreography.

Austin Sports Arena Ultimate Indoor Sports Camp 3918 Gattis School Rd., Round Rock 512-251-7500 www.austinsportsarena.com/camps Ages 5 – 14 Campers have the option of enjoying either a full or half day of jam-packed activities designed for kids at any skill level.

Badgerdog Creative Writing Summer Camp Several locations across Austin 512-542-0076 www.austinlibrary.org Rising 3rd – 12th grade Led by professional writers, campers discover and practice the arts of poetry and storytelling in a low-pressure, fun environment and become published authors.

Bear Creek Stables 13017 Bob Johnson Ln., Manchaca www.bearcreekstables.com 512-282-0250 Ages 7 – 16

Because horses are fascinating, a horse camp is one of the best sources of growth, self confidence and fun available to a young person.

Bits, Bytes & Bots Computer Adventures Various locations 512-415-4120 www.austintx.bitsbytesbots.com Ages 6 – 14 Offering fun and educational week-long, half-day technology camps in game creation, moviemaking, robotics, Scratch programming, Kodu Game Lab programming and Minecraft®. Low student to instructor ratio.

Boost Writing Camp by Extra Credit! LLC 8820 Business Park Dr. #300, Austin 512-689-0236 www.extracreditaustin.com Ages 4 – 6 Spring break and summer options, pending interest and availability. For foundations to better handwriting. Pre-screening required. Details online.

Bricks 4 Kidz ATX Multiple greater Austin locations 512-270-9003 www.bricks4kidz.com/atx Ages 5 – 13 Build LEGO® models that move! Our themed enrichment camps feature motorized building, crafts, games and creative building time. Campers take home LEGO® mini-figures or accessory packs.

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Cafe Monet Summer Art Westgate, Triangle and San Marcos 512-892-3200, 512-906-2200, 512-805-2800 www.cafemonet.org Ages 6 and up Hands-on lesson in creativity. Paint pottery, fuse glass or spruce it up on a wood plaque.

Camp Abrakadoodle – Kids with Imagination Round Rock, Cedar Park and Georgetown 512-337-7017 www.abrakadoodle.com Ages 3 – 12 Fun-filled camps with art, stories, music, games and more.

Camp Adventure by Kiddie Academy 1602 Medical Pkwy., Cedar Park 512-986-7355 www.kiddieacademy.com/cedarpark Ages preschool – school age At Kiddie Academy, we aim to make your child’s summer as educational as it is fun. Our Camp Adventure program and curriculum do exactly that, through themed events, activities and trips. With Camp Adventure, your child’s ordinary summer vacation is transformed into a fun and strong foundation for the future!

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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Camp Avalanche at Chaparral Ice Center

Capital Gymnastics Summer Fun/Clinics

2525 W. Anderson Ln. #400, Austin 512-252-8500 x 160 www.chaparralice.com Ages 7 - 14 Our campers fill their days swimming, going to the park, going on field trips, doing arts and crafts and—of course—ice skating!

Pflugerville, Cedar Park and McNeil at Parmer 512-251-2439, 512-259-9995, 512-219-9930 www.capgym.com Ages 3 and up Camp sessions, classes and clinics all summer long. Gymnastics, healthy and exciting activities, field trips and more.

Camp De Champs at Chaparral Ice Center

Challenger

2525 W. Anderson Ln. #400, Austin 512-252-8500 x 160 www.chaparralice.com Ages 6 - 13 Camp De Champs offers 11 weeks of figure skating and hockey skating instruction. Kids receive two lessons daily, as well as public skating time, off-ice training, goal setting, arts and crafts and a new, optional performance recital on the Thursday evening of each week.

Camp Doublecreek 800 Doublecreek Dr., Round Rock www.campdoublecreek.com 512-255-3661 Ages 4 – 14 Camp Doublecreek is Austin/Round Rock’s Best Day Camp for 45+ years. It is an activity-based camp with free transportation from 12 different locations.

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Avery Ranch, Pond Springs and Round Rock www.challengerschool.com 512-341-8000, 512-258-1299, 512-255-8844 PreK - 8th grade Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Results are unmatched.

Cool Kids and Super Friends Camp by Extra Credit! LLC 8820 Business Park Dr. #300, Austin 512-689-0236 www.extracreditaustin.com Ages 8 - 12 Spring break and summer options, pending interest and availability. For self-regulation and social skills. Pre-screening required. Details online.

Cordovan Art School 3810 Gattis School Rd. #108, Round Rock 816 S. Main St., Georgetown www.cordovanartschool.com 512-275-4040 Ages 5 - 16

Experience the best art camps in the greater Austin area! Traditional, technical skills mixed with lots of fun! Ceramics, clay, drawing, painting, animals and more.

Country Home Learning Center 6900 Escarpment Blvd., Austin 512-288-8220 13120 U.S. Hwy. 183 N., Austin 512-331-1441 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Ages 5 - 13 Children must have finished grade K to attend our summer camp program and field trips. (All ages, starting at 6 weeks, accepted for our year round program.) Join us for an incredible summer camp experience, featuring child approved special events, exciting weekly field trips and kids’ choice special interest clubs.

Dance Discovery Central Austin and Avery Ranch 512-419-7611, 512-658-2996 www.dancediscovery.com, www.averyranchdance.com Ages 3 - 14 Various themed camps include story time ballet, jazz, hip hop, gymnastics, yoga, arts and crafts and musical theatre. Each camp ends with a great show!

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Esoteric Farm 15 minutes north of downtown Austin 512-272-4301 www.esotericfarm.com Ages 5 - 16 Daily horse-related games and activities and an indoor horse arena. Fun, active and affordable!

Extend-A-Care for Kids Summer Day Camp Locations in AISD, DVISD and HCISD 512-472-9402 www.eackids.org Ages 3 - 12 Weekly sessions consisting of sports, field trips, swimming, cooking, games and puzzles, reading, arts and crafts and more. Weekly themes are based on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s literature.

Fantastic Magic Camp Locations throughout Austin 512-850-4677 www.magiccamp.com Ages 5 - 12 Kids discover their unique inner magic through learning magic tricks. Campers are surrounded by people, both young and old, who recognize and embrace that uniqueness.

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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE French for Kids

Girlstart Summer Camp

Ecole Jean-Jacques Rousseau 11607 N. Lamar, Austin www.austinfrenchforkids.org 512-339-6000 Ages 3 - 12 Where French immersion meets academic excellence.

1400 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 512-916-4775 www.girlstart.org Rising 4th - 8th grades Girlstart summer camp allows girls to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in a fun, informal environment and equips girls with STEM skills they will use for life. Girlstart’s camp provides unique experiences that develop a strong conceptual understanding of STEM subjects and increase participants’ interest in STEM activities and careers.

Fun 2 Learn Code Austin and Round Rock (see web site for additional locations) 512-900-8380 www.fun2learncode.com Ages 7 and up Half- and full-day computer programming camps, including Minecraft mods in Java, Scratch programming, Python, game design, web development, robotics, circuits and stop motion animation.

Game Worlds Camp ACC Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd., Austin 512-609-0052 www.gameworldscamp.com Ages 10-18 Learn to make video games! Real developers teach kids programming, testing, art, audio and game design. Teams come away with a working game they’ve created!

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Handwriting Club by Extra Credit! LLC 8820 Business Park Dr. #300, Austin 512-689-0236 www.extracreditaustin.com Ages 5 - 9 Summer class options, pending interest and availability. For better handwriting. Pre-screening required. Details online.

Heartsong 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 512-371-9506 www.heartsongmusic.net Ages up to 9 Join us spring and summer for our Music Together classes for children and their caregivers.

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International School of Texas 4402 Hudson Bend Rd., Lakeway 512-351-3403 www.internationalschooloftexas.com We are a non-profit, non-faith based private school offering a high-quality, brain-friendly learning environment where children are recognized for their individual abilities, intelligences and learning styles.

Kiddie Academy’s Camp Adventure 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville 512-989-7777 www.kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville Ages preschool – 12 years At Kiddie Academy, we aim to make your child’s summer as educational as it is fun. Our Camp Adventure program and curriculum do exactly that, through themed events, activities and trips. With Camp Adventure, your child’s ordinary summer vacation is transformed into a fun and strong foundation for the future!

KidsActing Locations throughout Austin metro 512-836-5437 www.kidsactingstudio.com Ages 4 - 18 Unleash your creativity this summer.

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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Learning Fun101 Locations throughout Austin metro 512-740-3024 Rising 1st â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5th grades Want your child to do something unique and absolutely cool this summer? How about having them learn to build and design robots using the LEGOÂŽ bricks? Students learn basic robotic, engineering, programming principals and the STEM concepts while having fun!

Mad Science Locations throughout Austin metro 512-892-1143 www.austin.madscience.org Ages 4 - 12 Mad Science camps are filled with exciting, fun, hands-on science activities. Children become junior scientists for the week and experience a variety of science adventures.

Master Gohring Tai Chi and Kung Fu 6611 Airport Blvd., Austin 512-879-7553 www.mastergohring.com Ages 4 and up Come check out our program for the entire family.

Nitro Swim Cedar Park/Round Rock, Bee Cave 512-259-7999 www.nitroswim.com Ages 6 months and up The indoor Nitro Swim Center offers the highest

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quality swim lessons, non-competitive and competitive swimming around.

NWA Kickball 3701 Far West Blvd., Austin 512-736-7364 www.nwakickball.com Ages 4 - 18 A girls-only league providing a fun, organized sports program. Five age divisions. Season runs March-May. Located at Far West Blvd. and Hart Lane.

Paramount Theatre Summer Camps On-site at the Paramount and Stateside Theatres in downtown Austin and at remote sites across Austin 512-692-0526 www.austintheatre.org/camps Ages 6 - 17 The Paramount Academy for the Arts offers camps focusing on musical theatre, playwriting, acting, design, stand-up comedy, filmmaking, songwriting and robotics.

Rainbow Stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Village Summer Program 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Austin 512-260-9700 www.rainbowstationaustin.org Ages infant â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 years An entire facility dedicated to school-age children. Full-day camp offers weekly mini courses, swim lessons, sports and weekly field trips.

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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Rio Vista Farm 13013 Fallwell Ln., Del Valle 512-247-2302 www.riovistafarm.net Ages 7 - 16 Austin’s originator of English riding camps. Daily lessons taught by professional trainers, lots of horse time/care, arts and crafts and swimming for hotter afternoons. Friday horse shows for parents to attend.

Round Rock Express Baseball Camps Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd. 512-255-2255 www.roundrockexpress.com Ages 6 and up We offer big league quality instruction on the fundamentals of baseball. Express camps are open to all skill levels, developing the complete athlete by focusing on physical skill sets, leadership and mental skills.

Spanish for Kids !Aprende Español Jugando! Froggin Learning Center 6203 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin 512-345-3764 www.froggin.com Ages 5 - 10 Our Spanish immersion camp is play-based and incorporates games and fun activities for children to learn Spanish naturally from native speakers.

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“Layla y la Ballena” Spanish Immersion 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 107 Ranch Rd. 620 S. #200, Lakeway 512-299-5731, 512-299-5732, 512-466-2409 www.austinbilingualschool.com Ages 2 - 11 Children join together to make the story “Leyla y la Ballena” come to life. Every week is dedicated to a theme, which is taught in an enthusiastic, fun-filled environment.

Spicewood Country Camp 6102 Spicewood Springs Rd., Austin 512-345-2992 www.spicewoodcountry.com Ages 3½ – 10 Nine shady acres in northwest Austin with animals, music, swimming, crafts, sports and horseback riding.

Quarries Camp 11400 N. Mopac Exwy., Austin 512-241-0233 www.quarriesrec.org Grades K - 6 We provide fun all summer long by taking campers on local field trips and planning fun and creative adventures on our campus!

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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE S.A.S. St. Andrews Episcopal School 1112 W. 31st St., Austin 512-299-9700 www.sasaustin.org Ages 4 - 18 We offer camps for aspiring artists, athletes, scientists, musicians, chess enthusiasts, cooks and more.

Stepping Stone School Winter Break Camp at the Brainery! 17 locations in the Austin area 512-459-0258 www.steppingstoneschool.com Ages 5 - 13 Discover the era of knights and castles this winter at

Stepping Stone School’s winter break camp! Students will participate in S.T.E.A.M. related projects, go on field journeys and more! Secure your child’s spot in this one of a kind experience today!

St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School Summer Camps 9300 Neenah Ave., Austin 512-388-8846 www.saviochs.org/parents/summer_camps.cfm Grades 1st - 12th St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School is offering numerous camps this summer such as: art, music, robotics, soccer, volleyball and Lone Star Hoops basketball.

Summer Wonders 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin 512-203-4540 www.summerwonders.org Ages 4 – 13 A program for gifted students to explore diverse subjects through an integrated, hands-on approach, presented in a fun, creative manner.

Sylvan Learning Centers North Austin/Cedar Park 512-336-1818 South Austin 512-441-3989 Round Rock 512-310-7890 West Austin 512-323-6448 Hays County 512-262-7035 Georgetown 512-869-7323 www.sylvanlearning.com Grades 1st – 6th Have fun and stay sharp this summer with brand new camps at Sylvan Learning.

Synergy Dance 2314 Bee Cave Rd. #C1, Austin 512-327-4130 www.synergydancestudio.com Ages 2 and up Dance camps include ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, tumbling, theatre, crafts and a performance on Fridays. Dance intensives for beginner to advanced.

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TexARTS Summer Camps 2300 Lohman’s Spur #160, Lakeway 512-852-9079 ext 104 www.tex-arts.org Ages 2 - 18 Musical theatre, dance and visual arts camps including a musical theatre intensive, weekly “best of” musicals, mini camps for ages 2 - 4 and visual arts camps.

The Magnolia School 2903 RR 620, Lake Travis 512-266-9620 www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com Ages 3 - 11 Full or part time camps, featuring morning academic booster with language arts and handwriting, reading and math. Plus afternoon weekly themed camp activities. 7:30-5:30, Monday through Friday.

YMCA of Austin Summer Day Camp 22 locations throughout Travis, Hays and Bastrop counties 512-236-9622 www.AustinYMCA.org Ages 4 - 14 Safe and enriching summer day camps. Enjoy field trips, swimming, games and more in a character rich environment with the YMCA of Austin.

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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE YMCA Williamson Co.

Young Entrepreneurs Club

Camp Stewart for Boys

Hutto, 512-846-2360 Burnet, 512-756-6180 Cedar Park, 512-250-9622 Round Rock, 512-615-5563 www.ymcagwc.org Outdoor Adventure Camps, K - 8th grade Excursion Camps, K - 6th grade Specialty Camps, K - 8th grade Kinder Camps, 3 years - K At the Y, we offer a wide array of summer camp options and activities that are designed to make summer fun, exciting, convenient and safe.

1900 Cypress Creek Rd., #101, Cedar Park www.educenter4me.com 512-996-9260 Ages 5th - 9th grade Watch for details to come.

612 FM 1340, Hunt TX 830-238-4670 www.CampStewart.com Boys ages 6 - 16 “Low-tech,” wholesome fun, growth, 70-plus activities. Ragsdale family owned, operated. Outstanding role model counselors, worldwide enrollment, home-style cooking. North Fork, Guadalupe River.

ZACH Summer Theatre Camps 1510 Toomey Rd., Austin 512-476-0594 x236 zachtheatre.org/education Ages 3½ - 18 Weekly camps, June 6 through August 19, include acting, dance, voice, comedy, improv and creative drama for beginners to pre-professional students. Join the fun!

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OVERNIGHT camps Heart O’ the Hills Camp 2430 Hwy 39, Hunt, TX 830-238-4650 www.HOHcamp.com Ages 6 - 16 Care-free all-girls atmosphere, Guadalupe River, air-conditioned. Family style dining. Worldwide enrollment, personable! Fun, friendly, down-toearth, instruction-oriented. More than 40 activities. Ragsdale family owned, operated.

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Newk’s Adventure Camp 325 Mission Valley Rd., New Braunfels 830-625-9105 www.texasadventurecamp.net Ages 9 - 16 A fun, adventurous week that includes high ropes, zip lines, campout, Schlitterbahn, paintball, rock climbing, caving, archery, swimming, tubing, rafting, a dance and much more!

Sugar & Spice Ranch Camp Bandera, TX 830-460-8487 www.texashorsecamps.com Ages 5 and up Bonding mothers and daughters through horses. You and your daughter will own horses for a week and do everything together as a team. All-inclusive week-long session and a great way to reconnect with each other.

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Vista Camps â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Camp Rio Vista for Boys and Camp Sierra Vista for Girls Ingram, TX 830-367-5353 www.vistacamps.com Ages 6 - 16 We provide a safe, wholesome, fun-filled learning camp experience to every boy and girl since 1921.

YMCA Twin Lakes Overnight Camp 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park Grades 3rd to 8th New cabins have bathrooms and A/C, experienced counselors, nutritious meals and new friends. All the activities you love and a whole lot more!

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SPECIAL NEEDS camps Summer Wonders 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin 512-203-4540 www.summerwonders.org Ages 4 - 13 A program for gifted students to explore diverse subjects through an integrated, hands-on approach, presented in a fun, creative manner.

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2015-2016

Education Guide Private and Charter Schools

Ace Academy 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin www.austingifted.org 512-206-4070 PreK-12th Cathedral School of Saint Mary’s 910 San Jacinto, Austin www.smcschoolaustin.org 512-476-1480 PreK-8th Challenger School 15101 Avery Ranch Rd., Austin www.challengerschool.com 512-341-8000 PreK-8th 1521 Joyce Ln., Round Rock 512-255-8844 13015 Pond Springs Rd., Austin 512-258-1299 Fine Arts Academy 2110 White Horse Tr., Austin www.dancediscovery.com 512-419-7611 3rd-5th 10526 Parmer Ln., Austin 512-658-2996 Harmony Science Academy 930 E Rundberg Ln., Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-835-7900 K-8th Harmony School of Innovation 2124 E. St.Elmo St., Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-300-0895 K-5th Harmony School of Excellence 2100 E. St. Elmo Rd., Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-693-0000 6th-12th Harmony School of Political 13475 FM 620, Austin Science & Communications www.hsaaustin.org 512-284-9880 K-12th Harmony Science Academy North Austin 1421 Wells Branch Pkwy. W. E200, Pflugerville www.hsaaustin.org 512-251-5000 6th-12th Harmony School of Science 11800 Stonehollow Dr. Ste. 100, Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-821-1700 K-5th Holy Family Catholic School 9400 Neenah Ave., Austin www.holyfamilycs.org 512-246-4455 PreK--8th Hyde Park Schools 3901 Speedway, Austin www.hp-schools.org 512-465-8344 K4-8th 11400 N. MoPac Expwy., Austin 512-465-8333 9th-12th International School of Texas 4402 Hudson Bend, Austin www.internationalschooloftexas.com 512-351-3403 2-14 yrs Jardin De Ninos Interlingua 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin www.austinbilingualschool.com 512-432-5317 Inf-3rd 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 512-299-5732 107 R.R. 620, Ste. 300, Lakeway 512-466-2409 Magellan School 7938 Great Northern Blvd., Austin www.magellanschoolatx.org 512-782-2327 PreK-7th Magnolia School 2903 RR 620 N., Austin www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com 512-266-9620 3-13 yrs. Indi. Instr. San Juan Diego Catholic School 800 Herndon Ln., Austin www.sjdchs.org 512-804-1935 9th-12th St. Austin Catholic School 1911 San Antonio St., Austin www.staustinschool.org 512-477-3751 PreK-8th St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School 9300 Neenah Ave., Austin www.saviochs.org 512-388-8846 9th-12th St. Francis School 300 E. Huntland Dr., Austin www.stfrancis-school.org 512-454-0848 PreK-8th St. Gabriel’s Catholic School 2500 Wimberly Ln., Austin www.sgs-austin.org 512-327-7755 JrK-8th St. Helens Catholic School 2700 E. University Ave., Georgetown www.shclions.org 512-869-3244 PreK-8th St. Ignatius, Martyr Catholic School 120 W. Oltorf, Austin www.st-ignatius.org/school 512-442-8547 PreK-8th St. Louis Catholic School 2114 St. Joseph, Austin www.slcsaustin.org 512-614-6622 x245 PreK-8th St. Mary’s Catholic School 520 Washburn St., Taylor www.stmarystaylor.org 512-352-2313 PreK-8th St. Paul Lutheran School 3407 Red River St., Austin www.splaustin.org 512-472-3313 18 mos - 8th St. Stephen’s School 6000 FM 3237, Wimberly www.ststeveschool.org 512-847-9857 PreK-6th St. Theresa’s Catholic School 4311 Small Dr., Austin www.st-theresa.org 512-451-7105 PreK-8th Santa Cruz Catholic School 1110 Main St., Buda www.sccstx.org 512-312-2137 PreK-8th William’s Community School 13584 Pond Springs Rd., Austin www.williamscommunityschool.org 512-250-5700 PreK-8th special needs

All Saints Episcopal Day School Children’s Center of Austin Child’s Haven MDO Country Home Learning Center Extend-A-Care For Kids Froggin Learning Center Kiddie Academy of Cedar Park Kiddie Academy of Pflugerville Rainbow Station Spicewood Country School Stepping Stone Schools

Montessori/Preschools/Kindergarten

209 W. 27th St., Austin www.allsaintseds.org 512-472-8866 3 yrs-K 6507 Jester Rd. Bldg. 2, Austin www.childrenscenterofaustin.com 512-795-8300 Inf-PreK 8100 Bee Caves Rd., Austin 512-329-6633 4308 N. Quinlan Park Rd., Austin 512-266-6130 600 W. Park St., Cedar Park www.childshaven.net 512-335-9540 1 yr-PreK 1310 US Hwy 183 North, Austin www.countryhomelearningcenter.com 512-331-1442 Inf-13yrs 6900 Escarpment Blvd., Austin 512-288-8220 77 area campuses www.eackids.org 512-472-9402 Inf- PreK AfterSch Corner of 360 and 2222, Austin www.frogginlearning.com 512-345-3764 1-10yrs 1602 Medical Pkwy., Cedar Park www.kiddieacademy.com/austin 512-920-3028 6 wks-12 yrs 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville www.kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville 512-270-9988 6wks-12yrs 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Cedar Park www.rainbowstationaustin.org 512-260-9700 Inf-12yrs 6102 Spicewood Springs Rd., Austin www.spicewoodcountry.com 512-346-2992 Inf-K 19 Locations throughout Austin Metro www.steppingstoneschool.com 512-459-0258 Inf-K

Resources

Aces Jiu Jitsu 10435 Burnet Rd. #106, Austin www.acesjiujitsuclub.com 512-730-1161 Bully prevention, confidence Building Austin Learning Center 3355 Bee Cave Rd., #203, Austin www.austinlearningcenter.com 512-330-9007 Tutoring, SAT/ACT, coaching, mentoring EduCenter by Nets 1900 Cypress Creek, Ste. 101, Cedar Park www.educenter4me.com 512-996-9260 SpeTutoring, entrepreneurship, specialized therapy Extra Credit 8820 Business Park #300, Austin www.extracreditaustin.com 512-689-0236 Medical and educational occupation therapy 1780 Round Rock Ave. #200, Round Rock 512-265-2448 Positive Behavior Supports Austin Area www.teampbs.com 855.832.6727x3004 In-home ABA Therapy-Autism Sylvan Learning Centers Six Austin metro locations (see ad page 1) www.sylvan.com 800-EDUCATE Tutoring, robotics, STEM confidence building

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B Y J E N N I F E R VA N B U R E N

It’s said that children don’t come with instruction manuals, and you could say they don’t come with a roadmap, either. But there are resources out there that can help you navigate the bumps and curves of the parenting journey. From toddler tantrums to adolescent angst, there are classes in your community designed to guide and educate parents through all ages and stages.

Hit a Parenting Rough Patch? Take a Class! Close to Home Many churches offer parenting classes. For example, St. Catherine of Siena Church offers a seven-week parenting seminar based on the classic best-selling book, “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk.” Referred to as “basic training,” this series prepares parents for the inevitable high-emotion struggle, whether a tantrum in the check-out lane or a scuffle over why your 12 year old is not allowed to have a cell phone. Greater cooperation, more effective problem solving and increased independence and autonomy are goals of this course. The weekly classes correspond with chapter titles such as “Helping Children Deal With Their Feelings,” “Alternatives to Punishment” and “Encouraging Autonomy.” Schools often offer classes and special events for parents. Keep an eye out for materials sent home or look on your school’s website for current offerings. If you see a need in your community, such as how to help a child with homework, contact the school PTA or administration and propose that classes be offered.

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A Short Drive Away Any Baby Can is an Austin-based nonprofit whose mission is “to empower families so children in Central Texas can succeed.” This organization, known for its work with families of special needs children, also offers free classes and support groups for all families. Participants in its Nurturing Parent class learn general parenting skills, ways to manage the stress that comes with parenting, how to communicate effectively and how to develop family rules. Expectant mothers and their supporters can take the Be Ready for Baby class for pre- and postnatal topics. PALS is a 14-week class focused on preparing children for starting school.

days are harder than others, but having a few catch phrases in your pocket, such as ‘You can do ____ as soon as you ____’ and ‘I will finish talking to you when you are finished arguing’ really make a difference.” When a custody dispute occurs, the court may order parents to take courses that help children make the adjustment. Often, these courses are offered online, and you don’t need a court order to take the class. All parents going through a

divorce can benefit from what the classes offer. Parenting is hard work, but there is help. Whether you are looking for advice in caring for an infant or need assistance deciphering financial aid for college, we are fortunate to have many free or low cost parenting support options in the Austin area. af Jennifer VanBuren is a Georgetown mother of three, educator and childbirth doula.

The Georgetown Project is non-profit and offers free and low cost classes in Williamson County. Classes address a variety of topics, including problemsolving and critical thinking, teaching children about money and teaching social skills through play. Special classes discuss issues for divorced parents. The Cooperative Parenting Program in Austin provides a series of parenting forums in Spanish and English. These classes focus on the needs of children and parents when the family undergoes a separation or divorce. The program seeks to promote healthy, cooperative, shared parenting and to provide information so parents can understand how their children may be affected by the separation or divorce.

Anywhere, Anytime Love and Logic is a curriculum that provides positive, loving tools for raising happy and well-behaved kids. According to its website, “the ‘Love’ means that we love our kids so much that we are willing to set and enforce limits with sincere compassion and empathy. The ‘Logic’ happens when we allow children to make decisions, make affordable mistakes and experience the natural or logical consequences.” Candace Mills, a Georgetown educator and mother of two, says “parenting with Love and Logic requires planning, practice and lots of patience. Some Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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B Y J E N N I F E R VA N B U R E N

Se dice que los niños no vienen con un manual de instrucciones, y se podría decir que tampoco vienen con un mapa de rutas. Pero hay recursos que pueden ayudarle a navegar los baches y las curvas del camino de la crianza. Desde rabietas del niño a la angustia adolescente, hay clases en su comunidad diseñadas para orientar y educar a los padres a través de todas las edades y etapas.

¿Necesita Ayuda en la Crianza de sus Hijos? ¡Tome una Clase! Cerca de Casa Muchas iglesias ofrecen clases para padres. Por ejemplo, la iglesia Santa Catalina de Siena ofrece un seminario de siete semanas sobre la crianza de los hijos basado en el clásico libro más vendido, “Cómo Hablar para que los Niños Escuchen y Escuchar para que los Niños Hablen”. Referido como “formación básica”, esta serie de clases prepara a los padres para las inevitables luchas de alta emoción, ya sea una rabieta en la fila para pagar o una riña sobre por qué a su hijo de 12 años de edad no le permiten tener un teléfono celular. Una mayor cooperación, la solución más eficaz a los problemas y una mayor independencia y autonomía son los objetivos de este curso. Las clases semanales corresponden con títulos de capítulos como “Ayudar a los Niños a Lidiar con sus Sentimientos”, “Alternativas al Castigo” y “Fomentar Autonomía”. Las escuelas a menudo ofrecen clases y eventos especiales para los padres. Esté alerta en los materiales enviados a casa o visite el sitio Web de su escuela para ver los servicios actuales que se están ofreciendo. Si usted ve una necesidad en su comunidad, como la forma de ayudar a un niño con su tarea, póngase en contacto con el PTA de la escuela o la administración y proponga que se ofrezcan este tipo de clases para los padres.

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A Corta Distancia en Coche Any Baby Can es una entidad en Austin sin fines de lucro cuya misión es “capacitor a las familias para que los niños en el centro de Texas puedan tener éxito”. Esta organización, conocida por su trabajo con las familias de necesidades especiales, también ofrece clases gratuitas y grupos de apoyo para todas las familias. Los participantes en su clase “Nutrir a los Padres” aprenden habilidades generales de criar a los hijos, formas de manejar el estrés que viene con la crianza de los hijos, la forma de comunicarse de manera efectiva y cómo desarrollar reglas en la familia. Las mujeres embarazadas y sus partidarios pueden tomar la clase “Estar Preparados para el Bebé” con temas prenatales y postnatales. “PALS” es una clase de 14 semanas enfocada en preparar a los niños para empezar la escuela.

‘Puedes hacer ____ tan pronto como ____’ y ‘Voy a terminar de hablar contigo cuando hayas terminado de discutir’, realmente hace una diferencia”. Cuando se produce una disputa por la custodia, el tribunal puede ordenar a los padres a tomar cursos que ayuden a los niños a hacer el ajuste. A menudo, estos cursos se ofrecen en línea, y usted no necesita una orden judicial para tomar la clase. Todos los padres que pasan por un divorcio pueden

beneficiarse de lo que ofrecen las clases. El criar a los hijos es un trabajo duro, pero hay ayuda si usted sabe dónde buscar. Si usted está buscando asesoramiento en el cuidado de un bebé o necesite ayuda para descifrar la ayuda financiera para la universidad, tenemos la suerte de tener muchas opciones de apoyo para padres ya sea gratuitos o de bajo costo en el área de Austin. af Jennifer VanBuren es una educadora y madre de tres hijos.

El Proyecto de Georgetown es una organización sin fines de lucro que ofrece clases gratuitos y de bajo costo en el Condado de Williamson. Las clases ofrecidas regularmente son de una variedad de temas, incluyen solución de problemas y pensamiento crítico, enseñar a los niños sobre el dinero y la enseñanza de habilidades sociales a través del juego. Clases especiales hablan sobre temas tales como la de padres divorciados. El Programa Cooperativo Sobre la Crianza de los Hijos en Austin ofrece una serie de foros en español e inglés sobre la crianza de los hijos. Estas clases se enfocan en las necesidades de los niños y los padres cuando la familia sufre una separación o divorcio. El programa busca promover la forma sana, cooperativa y compartida de criar a los hijos y proporcionar información para que los padres entiendan cómo sus hijos pueden verse afectados por la separación o el divorcio.

En Cualquier Lugar, en Cualquier Momento El Amor y la Lógica es un plan de estudios que ofrece, herramientas positiva, amorosas para criar niños felices y de buen comportamiento. Según su sitio Web, “el ‘Amor’ significa que amamos a nuestros hijos tanto que estamos dispuestos a establecer y hacer cumplir los limites con sincera compasión y empatía. La ‘Lógica’ sucede cuando permitimos que los niños tomen decisiones, cometan errores asequibles y experimenten las consecuencias naturales o lógicas”. Candace Mills, una educadora de Georgetown y madre de dos hijos, dice que “criar a sus hijos con Amor y Lógica requiere planificación, práctica y mucha paciencia. Algunos días son más difíciles que otros, pero el tener algunas frases en su bolsillo, tales como

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BY RICHARD SINGLETON

Cutting the Cord: Are You Ready to Say Good-bye to Cable?

e’re living in an age where we’re rethinking almost everything about media consumption. The aging approach of paying massive cable bills to access the few shows we like is giving way to a la carte options. Increasingly, we want to view specific content, slice away bloated bills and escape the avalanche of channels that lack the content we want. Smart TVs promise to get you connected to your favorite apps like Netflix and Hulu, but many of the built-in TV apps are sluggish and hard to navigate. Not fun. A number of devices help in this regard. The big players are Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast. For as little as thirty bucks (even less during sales), you can pick up a device like Chromecast. These magical miniatures plug into the back of your TV and pump out your favorite streaming apps with effortless ease. You can control these devices from your phone or—in the case of the Fire TV Stick—from an easy to use remote that’s included. With these streaming devices, you don’t have to learn a new user interface for every TV, and you don’t have to rely on

January 2016 l austinfamily.com

your TV’s slow innards to deliver content. Also, Apple and Amazon have voice searches built into their remotes. This makes searching a breeze. You’ll want to be on the lookout for some particulars. If Santa squeezed a massive 4K TV into your living room, you’ll likely want to find a device that meshes with your new pixel-popping wonderland. The Amazon Fire TV, for instance, streams 4K content and is still affordable—tipping the scale at less than $100 and often on sale for as little as $75. Word to the wise, however: 4K content is limited, and you’ll need hefty internet speeds to make it enjoyable. Tech gurus recommend at least 25Mbps. I’d say go for as much as you can afford, because content is only going to be increasing year after year. So, will an amped up internet connection and a streaming device help you cut the cable cord? For some folks, yes. If you find that you rarely watch TV and you’re spending most of your screen time streaming video, you might be able to say goodbye to a sizeable chunk of your cable bill—maybe all of it. Take the streaming test. For one week, only use streaming services like Netflix,

Amazon Prime Video, Hulu Plus or the very intriguing Sling TV (more on this later). If you find that these services meet your needs, extend your test to several weeks. After a month, you may realize that you spent good money for a cable service you didn’t use. Okay, on to Sling TV. It’s a neat compromise that may be the right middle ground. Sling TV allows you to choose the content that you want— stations like ESPN or HGTV—and watch them live. All this is done without contracts and for about $20 per month. There are limits. You can only stream on one device at a time per account. And you’ll need to watch local TV via a traditional antenna. One last thing: you may be a huge fan of cable or satellite. I have cable and still enjoy it enough not to want to cut the cord…yet. I’m not trying to wage war against the good folks who have been providing news and entertainment for years. But we’re living in a time of major change, and we should be exploring what’s next. af Richard Singleton, MACE, MAMFC, LPC, is the executive director at STARRY in Round Rock.

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10 THINGS

To Master with Your Kids! Take some time to master one or all of these tricky things.

u Hula hoop v Chopsticks w Skipping Rocks x Jump Rope y Cartwheel z Cat’s Cradle { Rubik’s Cube

PIENSA POSITIVO

by Leslie Montoya, host of Despierta Austin

Auto-Profecía No hay tal cosa como la mala suerte. Si son de los que piensan que nacieron con mala estrella por las vivencias pasadas, o peor, porque alguien más se los dijo; están equivocados. De acuerdo al escritor Napoleón Hill, nuestra mente es responsable de fabricar nuestros pensamientos diarios y si estos son negativos pues negativos resultados obtendrás. Si practicas todos los días en cambiar tu mentalidad negativa por pensamientos positivos verás la gran sorpresa de cambiar tu “mala suerte” para bien. Toma el mismo esfuerzo en pensar positivo que negativo así que ¡Piensa Positivo!

Self-prophecy There is no such thing as “bad luck.” If you are one of those people who thinks they are born with bad karma because they have had bad experiences in life, or even worse, because somebody else told you so; you are wrong. According to the writer Napoleon Hill, our mind is responsible for fabricating our daily thoughts, and if our thoughts are negative, we will get negative results. If you practice changing your negative mentality to a positive one, you will see how your “bad luck” will turn around. It takes the same effort to think positive as negative. Think Positive!

Paper | airplane

} Cootie Catcher ~ Flying a Kite Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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January 2016 C O M P I L ED BY BETTY KEMP ER

++ Denotes event occurs on multiple dates

Museum Exhibits

Museum Exhibits page 44 Family Events page 44 Parenting Events page 48 Storytimes 50

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN…THE BEATLES! Through Jan. 10. LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St. $8. lbjlibrary.org or 512-721-0200.

FIRST FRIDAY ++ 6 to 8 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670.

MAKING THE GRADE: AUSTIN’S FIRST PUBLIC SCHOOLS Through Mar. 27. Austin History Center, 810 Guadalupe St. FREE. austintexas.gov or 512-974-7480.

FIRST DAY NIGHT HIKE 7 p.m. McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy. Tpwd.texas.gov or 512‑415-8793.

SHAKESPEARE IN PRINT AND PERFORMANCE Through May 29. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St. FREE. hrc.utexas.edu or 512-471-8944.

Saturday 2

IMAGES OF CHRISTMAS PAST Through Jan. 30. Taylor Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor. FREE. ci.taylor.tx.us or 512-352-3434.

Family Events Friday 1

New Years Day POLAR BEAR PLUNGE 5 to 11 a.m. Barton Springs Pool, 2201 Barton Springs Rd. hillcountryoutdoors.com or 512‑867‑3080. ICE SKATING AT THE PLAZA ++ 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Whole Foods Market, 525 N. Lamar Blvd. $10, skates included. wholefoodsmarket.com or 512‑542‑2200. PFREEZE PFLOP IN PFLUGERVILLE 10 a.m. Mentzer Pool, 901 Old Austin Hutto Rd., Pflugerville. Canned good donation. pflugervilletx.gov or 512‑990‑6358.

MADRONE CANYON HIKE ++ 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045. NATURE PLAY HOUR ++ 10 to 11 a.m. Lady Bird Wildflower Center, 4801 LaCrosse Ave. $10 adults, $4 kids 5 to 7. wildflower.org/kids_programs. WILD BY NATURE 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. McKinney Roughs Nature Park, 1884 SH 71 West, Cedar Creek. FREE. lcra.org/mckinneyroughs or 512‑303‑5073. WHAT’S THE STORY, STEVE? ++ 10 to 11 a.m. ColdTowne Theater, 4803 Airport Blvd. Pay what you wish. moveyourtale.com. GIANT CHESS ++ 12:30 to 3 p.m. Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe St. FREE. giantchess.org.

Sunday 3 FREE FIRST SUNDAYS ++ All day. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE. thestoryoftexas.com or 512‑936‑8746.

SUNDAY FUNDAY - HOT AIR BALLOONS All day. Neill-Cochran Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St. FREE. nchmuseum.org or 512‑478‑2335. MOVIE MATINEE: SHAUN THE SHEEP 1:30 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. ALL AGES IMPROV NIGHT ++ 5 p.m. ColdTowne Theater, 4803 Airport Blvd. Pay what you wish. coldtownetheater.com or 512-814-TOWN.

CONTINUING: Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1.

Monday 4 CONTINUING: Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1.

Austin Family is now making it easier for you to submit your calendar event. Go to www.austinfamily.com, click on “Submit your event” and send in your entry. The deadline is the 5th of each month preceding the month of the event. Events less than $15 usually are listed. For events more than $15, send details to kaye2003@austinfamily.com

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Wild by Nature, Jan. 2

MOVIE MATINEE: THE MINION MOVIE 1:30 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.

TOT’S FIRST TROMP 1 p.m. Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Rd. 1A, Bastrop. Tpwd.texas.gov or 512‑718-0211.

calendar

Tuesday 5 CONTINUING: Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1.

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Wednesday 6 COMMUNITY NIGHT ++ 5 to 8 p.m. Thinkery, 1800 Simond Ave. Donation. thinkery.org. AUSTIN BARN DANCERS ++ 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Hancock Rec Center, 811 E. 4th St. FREE. austinbarndancers.org or 512‑453‑4225. CONTINUING: Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1.

Thursday 7 FIRST THURSDAY ++ 5 to 10 p.m. S. Congress Ave., Barton Springs Rd. to Elizabeth St. FREE. firstthursday.info. CONTINUING: Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1.

Friday 8 CONTINUING: Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1.

Saturday 9 BRIGHT LEAF GUIDED HIKES ++ 9 to 11:30 a.m. Bright Leaf Preserve, 2222

Austin Family Magazine Summer Camp Fair, Jan. 23 and Creek Mountain Rd. FREE. brightleaf.org or 512‑459‑7269. HANDS-ON-HISTORY ++ 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670. SECOND SATURDAYS ARE FOR FAMILIES ++ 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th. $10 per family or $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and children. thecontemporaryaustin.org or 512‑458‑8191.

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CONTINUING: Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Ice Skating at the Plaza see Friday 1; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 2; What’s the Story, Steve? see Saturday 2.

Sunday 10 CONTINUING: Bright Leaf Guided Hikes see Saturday 9; All Ages Improv Night see Sunday 3.

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Saturday 16 GAULT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE TOURS 9 a.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. $10. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670. STAR WARS THE FORCE AWAKENS FAMILY FAN FEST 12 - 4 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., thestoryoftexas.com.

Tribes, Jan. 27 - Feb. 28 Tuesday 12 FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT - MINIONS 6:30 p.m. Twin Oaks Library, 1800 S. 5th St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980. CONTINUING: Bright Leaf Guided Hikes see Saturday 9; All Ages Improv Night see Sunday 3.

ANNIE JR. ++ 2 p.m. Morris Theatre, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Lakeway. $15. tex-arts.org.

CONTINUING: Austin Barn Dancers see Wednesday 6; Community Night see Wednesday 6.

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Wednesday 20 CONTINUING: Austin Barn Dancers see Wednesday 6; Community Night see Wednesday 6.

Thursday 21

CONTINUING: Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 2; What’s the Story, Steve? see Saturday 2.

SCIENCE THURSDAY ++ 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. Free for pre-registered groups. thestoryoftexas.com or 512‑936‑8746.

Sunday 17

BLANTON’S THIRD THURSDAY 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Blanton Museum, 200 E. MLK Blvd. FREE. blantonmuseum.org or 512471-7324.

CONTINUING: All Ages Improv Night see Sunday 3.

Monday 18

Martin Luther King Day

Wednesday 13

MLK MARCH, FESTIVAL AND FOOD DRIVE 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. University of Texas, MLK Statue. Bring food donation. mlkcelebration.com.

MLK COMMUNITY FESTIVAL 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Huston-Tillotson University, 900 Chicon St. FREE. mlkcelebration.com or 512‑657‑3064.

Saturday 23 AUSTIN FAMILY MAGAZINE’S 18TH ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP FAIR 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. austinfamily.com or 512‑733‑0038.

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PATTERN PEOPLE ++ 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. from $12. thelongcenter.org or 512‑474-5664. CONTINUING: Annie Jr. see Saturday 16; Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 2; What’s the Story, Steve? see Saturday 2.

Sunday 24 PATTERN PEOPLE ++ 2 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. from $12. thelongcenter.org or 512‑474-5664.

Wednesday 27

Sunday 31

TRIBES ++ 7:30 p.m. ZACH Theatre, 1510 Toomey Rd. starting at $25. zachtheatre.org or 512‑476‑0541.

TRIBES ++ 2:30 p.m. ZACH Theatre, 1510 Toomey Rd. starting at $25. zachtheatre.org or 512‑476‑0541.

CONTINUING: Austin Barn Dancers see Wednesday 6; Community Night see Wednesday 6

CONTINUING: Pattern People see Sunday 24; All Ages Improv Night see Sunday 3.

Thursday 28 MOVIE NIGHT: ANT-MAN 6 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.

CONTINUING: All Ages Improv Night see Sunday 3.

CONTINUING: Tribes see Wednesday 27.

Monday 25

Friday 29

MOVIE MATINEE: THE WALK 2 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.

CONTINUING: Tribes see Wednesday 27.

Tuesday 26

CONTINUING: Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 2; Tribes see Wednesday 27; Pattern People see Saturday 23; What’s the Story, Steve? see Saturday 2.

PAJAMA STORYTIME 6:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045.

Saturday 30

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iParenting Events ANY BABY CAN offers free parenting classes in English and Spanish on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Postpartum support group meets on Thursdays. 6207 Sheridan Ave. FREE. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743. YMCA offers a free Childhood Obesity Intervention Program on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the month.Various locations. austinymca.org or 512-236-9622.

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BRIDGES TO GROWTH offers a free Love and Logic early childhood parenting class on Wednesdays throughout the month. 7 to 8:30 p.m. 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. georgetownproject.org or 512-864-3008.

Monday 4 SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT GROUP 11 a.m. Plaza Level Park at 111 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas. FREE. Internationalautismministry. com or 737‑247‑8142.

Tuesday 5 LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 10 a.m. Christ’s Workshop, 212 E. Monroe. FREE. texaslll.org. SPARK HOMESCHOOLING GROUP 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org.

Wednesday 6 LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 10 a.m. Austin Public Library North Village Branch, 2505 Steck Ave. FREE. texaslll.org.

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Thursday 7 LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 7 p.m. North Austin Medical Center, Room 2B, 12221 N. Mopac Expy. FREE. texaslll.org.

Wednesday 13 LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 10:15 a.m. Will Hampton Branch Library, 5125 Convict Hill Rd. FREE. texaslll.org.

Wednesday 20 TODDLER ENRICHMENT MEETING 10 a.m. Brentwood Park, 6710 Arroyo Seco. FREE. texaslll.org.

Thursday 21 KHABELE + STRONG INCUBATOR, PUBLIC Q & A 6:30 to 8 p.m. Khabele Strong Incubator, 1701 Toomey Road. FREE. khabelestrong.com or 512-256-7675.

Thursday 28 PARENT NIGHT’S WORKSHOP 6 to 8 p.m. Khabele Strong Incubator, 1701 Toomey Rd. FREE. khabelestrong.com or 512-256-767

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iStorytimes Austin area libraries offer story times for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and families with children of all ages. In addition, there are story times in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, American Sign Language and other languages. Contact your local library for more information about times and appropriate ages. AUSTIN LIBRARY Branches throughout Austin library.austintexas.gov • 512-974-7400 BARNES AND NOBLE ARBORETUM 10000 Research Blvd. barnesandnoble.com • 512-418-8985 BARNES AND NOBLE BEE CAVE 12701 Hill Country Blvd. barnesandnoble.com • 512-263-7402 BARNES AND NOBLE BRODIE 5601 Brodie Ln. barnesandnoble.com • 512-892-3493 BARNES AND NOBLE LAKELINE 14010 U.S. Hwy. 183 barnesandnoble.com • 512-249-5644 BARNES AND NOBLE ROUND ROCK 2701 Parker Rd. barnesandnoble.com • 512-600-0088

BOOKPEOPLE 603 N. Lamar Blvd. bookpeople.com • 512-472-5050 CEDAR PARK LIBRARY 550 Discovery Blvd. cedarparktx.us • 512-401-5600 DRIPPING SPRINGS LIBRARY 501 Sportsplex Dr. dscl.org • 512-858-7825 GEORGETOWN LIBRARY 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org • 512-930-3551 KYLE LIBRARY 550 Scott St. cityofkyle.com • 512-268-7411 LAKE TRAVIS LIBRARY 2300 Lohman’s Spur laketravislibrary.org • 512-263-2885 LAURA’S LIBRARY 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com • 512-381-1400 LEANDER LIBRARY 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leandertx.gov/library • 512-259-5259 PFLUGERVILLE LIBRARY 1008 W. Pfluger St. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com 512-990-6275 ROUND ROCK LIBRARY 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov • 512-218-7001 SAN MARCOS LIBRARY 625 E. Hopkins St. ci.san-marcos.tx.us • 512-393-8200 TAYLOR LIBRARY 801 Vance St. ci.taylor.tx.us • 512-352-3434 WELLS BRANCH LIBRARY 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org • 512-989-3188 WESTBANK LIBRARY 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com • 512-327-3045

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.AUSTINFAMILY.COM FOR WEEKLY PRIZES

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focus on advertisement

doctors

Dr. Julio De la Fuente

Smileworks Orthodontics Dr. De la Fuente received his bachelor’s degree in biology from UTSA as part of the 3+4 program (3 years of college plus 4 years of dental school). He completed this exclusive and challenging program at the top of his class. Dr. De la Fuente is also a graduate of the orthodontic residency program at UTHSCSA. See ad on page 10

Dr. Linda Lopez

ADC Circle C Dr. Lopez is from the Rio Grande Valley. She received her medical degree from University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston. She completed her internship and residency at University of Texas Southwestern in Austin. Dr. Lopez speaks conversational Spanish and enjoys preventative, developmental and general pediatrics. See ad on page 56

Dr. Rachel Montgomery

Lonestar Pediatric Dental Dr. Montgomery graduated from Baylor University in Waco, and followed up by attending the University of Texas Dental School in Houston. Her residency was spent at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, with a specialty in pediatrics. Rachel can most likely be found spending time with her husband Marty and their precious boys. See ad on page 9

Dr. Marty Montgomery

Lonestar Pediatric Dental Dr. Marty Montgomery comes from a family where all the children were drawn to dental careers early in life. A graduate of Baylor University in Waco, Marty attended Tufts Dental School in Boston. He completed his residency at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, specializing in pediatrics. See ad on page 9

Dr. Betty Richardson

Dr. Richardson earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing, and a PhD in psych/mental health nursing. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional counselor. She has over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. See ad on page 48

Dr. Theresa Willis

ADC Steiner Ranch Dr. Willis is a graduate of the University of Texas, received her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed her residency at Texas Children’s Hospital. Dr. Willis’ professional interests include developmental pediatrics, fitness and healthy weight in children and teens. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. See ad on page 56 Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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KID ONE Domino Magic Trick! Here is a fun magic trick you can do with a friend at home.

What You Need

• •

A set of dominoes (one that goes up to double 6 makes the trick go faster) A table or space on the floor big enough to make a circle with all the dominoes

What You Do Step 1:

Lay out all the dominoes face up.

Step 2:

Use your acting skills to play up this step. Ask your friend a question, such as “What is your favorite color?” Then, pretend to really search for just the right domino to match their answer and set that domino aside, as if it is very important.

Step 3:

Ask your friend to lay out the remaining dominoes in a circle, with like numbers touching. For example, if the first domino is a 5-2, the next one needs to be a 2-something, and so on. It is important that they don’t make a mistake in matching the numbers on the ends, so pay attention here.

Step 4:

When all the dominoes are set out, it won’t make a complete circle, because the ends won’t match up. This is when you pull out that domino you set aside. It will make the circle complete, matching up the numbers on the two ends.

How it Works Here’s the secret: any domino will do, as long as you don’t choose a double. A set of dominoes will make a complete circle, no matter which domino you pull out in the beginning. But your friends don’t have to know that, do they?

Every day at Fantastic Magic Camp is filled with fun, adventure and discoveries. For more information, visit MagicCamp.com or call 512-850-4677.

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smart

screentime™ by Ben Kramer

Happy New Year from KLRU! Just in case you haven’t made a resolution, I have one for you and your kids to consider, one at the heart of our Smart Screen Time® recommendations.

We know that children from a very young age intuitively know the difference between what we call “smart media”—video, games or ebooks that make you think—and “silly media”—things we watch or play for pure entertainment. As KLRU, we’re not going to wag our finger and tell you that all your media choices need to be “smart.” That would be unrealistic, hypocritical and more than a little obnoxious. However, we would like to ask you to discuss your current media diet and whether it favors smart or silly. Now here comes the resolution part: see if your entire family can come up with guidelines for a healthy balance of smart and silly media and then stick to them. By doing this, you’re helping your kids to become thoughtful about their media choices, a skill they definitely need in this age of media saturation. Nature Cat has a one-hour special on January 18 at 7 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. af Benjamin Kramer, Ph.D., is the director of education for KLRU-TV, Austin PBS. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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just for by Carrie Taylor

grins

My Baby’s First Non-Well Check The first time my son was truly sick, he came down with RSV, and I was sure the entire family was going to die. But I survived—not just RSV, but the stages of a child’s first illness.

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Stage 1: Fear. One day out of nowhere, my baby’s flushed face and red, angry eyes told me something was afoot. The thermometer flashed 101.0, and I instantly knew both that death was upon him and that it was my fault. Stage 2: Insomnia. All night, I stared unblinking at our video monitor. Is he wheezing? Why are his hands by his side and not his head? Is that a sign of brain damage? Is his fever climbing? Will he spontaneously combust? Stage 3: Despair. Next morning, my baby was smiling. But then the cough started, and I was sure he had pneumonia. A quick Google search told me it may be nothing, or he could die in a week. Stage 4: Ignorance. “It’s RSV. We’ll set you up with a defibrihoozonizer,” my pediatrician said as I slowly died inside. I’ve never heard of the disease or a defackoulizer. (Turns out it was a nebulizer. The things you learn.) Stage 5: Disgust. Three days with the nebulizer, and I hit a wall of mucus. I bought something called a NoseFrida,

used it once and shall never speak of it again. Stage 6: Back to fear. On Day 7, I took the nebulizer and the baby back to the pediatrician. “He’s good to go,” the doctor said. Hooray! Rejoice! I carried my baby out and gave a merry farewell to the receptionists. Then a stray child sneezed in the direction of my baby carrier. I gave him three baths that day. af Carrie Taylor is a native Texan and mother of one.

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