Afm 2014 october magazine by Austin Family Magazine

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inside 10/14

austinfamily

smart parenting • healthy homes

12 columns 7

Test Drive Game reviews by ESRB, www.esrb.org

15 Ten things…for breast cancer awareness month! 16 Family Matters Help your child learn to love reading 22 The Learning Curve Kicked out of school and into what? 30 Family Connections Ghost in the machine Protect your privacy in the digital domain 32 Lifelines Is it infertility? 51 Films Now in theaters and opening soon

calendar

features

34 Family Events 38 Parenting Events 39 Storytimes

in every issue 7 8 47 48

Play It Safe Product recalls Around Austin Kidzone by Thinkery Book Recommendations

Meet Jodi Sorenson One woman’s story of diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy

Candy crush Strategies for handling the Halloween haul 9 ways a doula can help you have a better birth

extras 17 26 42 49 50

Young Writers Contest Education Guide 2014-15 Cover Kids Contest 2015 Focus on Doctors Smart Screen Time

52 Humor School of rock

tune in

¡Nue vo! artículos en español 18

Ayude a su niño/a a aprender a amar la lectura

¿Expulsado de la escuela y ahora qué?

Piensa positivo

Catch Austin Family live on “Good Day Austin” every Friday morning and Univision “Despierta Austin” the first Monday morning each month

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New items each week. Visit our website to register.

Cover photographed by Tiffany Corbett of Studio213.net

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austinfamily®

editor’s note by Sherida Mock

Traditionally, our October issue features maternity topics, and we do have that. Have you heard of doulas? Phyllis Brasenell has a terrific list of ways a doula can help before, during and after your birth experience. For those trying to get pregnant, Sara Rider offers some insights on the topic of infertility. But the story that resonates deeply for me—the story that bubbles to mind over and over again—is this month’s interview piece. Jodi Sorenson’s story of battling breast cancer in the midst of pregnancy will stay with you, too. Her experience is a lesson to us all to trust our instincts, lean on willing family and friends and surround ourselves with positive thoughts. It’s Breast Cancer Awareness month, folks. And while you’ll be seeing pink everywhere—pink ribbons, pink sports jerseys and socks—I urge you to think about the stories of the nearly 300,000 Americans who received this diagnosis in 2014. Breast cancer is on the decline, but it is by no means rare. Do what you can to take care of yourself—know your risk factors and control the ones you can—and support those you know who receive a diagnosis. Your help means everything to them. On a lighter note, Halloween falls in October, and if you’re wondering what to do with that haul of sugar your children bring home after trick-or-treating, turn to Eliana Osborn. She’s got a whole bunch of ideas to minimize the candy crush while letting your kids enjoy their spoils. We’ve also got a few quick tips on internet privacy from Richard Singleton and a humorous take on musical education from Susana Fletcher. I hope you all enjoy the cooler temps. Pick a pumpkin or two and have a great month!

October 2014

Volume 22, No. 7

PUBLISHER Kaye K. Lowak EDITOR Sherida Mock editor2003@austinfamily.com COPY EDITOR Paula Halloum ADVISING EDITORS Dr. Betty Kehl Richardson Barb Cooper CALENDAR EDITOR Betty Kemper calendar2003@austinfamily.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sherida Mock, Jack Kyser, Sara Rider, Jennifer VanBuren, Dr. Betty Richardson, Richard Singleton, Pam Heller, Susana Fletcher, Phyllis Brasenell, Eliana Osborn TRANSLATION TEAM Maribel Ruvalcaba, Margo Vogelpohl, Pilar Korgel ART DIRECTOR John Franzetti nr2003@austinfamily.com Mary Sauceda STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Studio 213.net ADVERTISING SALES Kaye K. Lowak kaye2003@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: (512) 733-0038 Web: 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 2014. All rights reserved. No portion of Austin Family may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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play it safe: product recalls

Government recalls bean bag chairs Ace Bayou is recalling 2.2 million bean bag chairs because the zippers on the bean bag chairs can be opened by children who can then crawl inside, get trapped and suffocate or choke on the bean bag chair’s foam beads. The recall involves chairs with two zippers that can be unzipped and opened, including one on the exterior cover and another directly underneath that zipper. The recalled chairs were sold in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and fabrics. “ACE BAYOU CORP” is printed on a tag sewn into the chair’s cover seam. Affected units were sold at Bergner’s, Bon-Ton, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s, Meijer, Pamida, School Specialty, Wayfair, Walmart and Younkers stores and online at Amazon. com, Meijer.com, Walmart.com and other websites before July 2013 for between $30 and $100. Consumers should check their chairs for any zippers that can open, take those that can open away from children immediately and contact Ace Bayou for a free repair kit to permanently disable the zippers so that they cannot be opened. 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.

test drive games ESRB Entertainment Software Rating Board

The Voice

Platform: Wii Rating category: E10+ Content descriptors: Mild lyrics Rating summary: This is a music and rhythm game based on the TV show The Voice, in which players perform songs for virtual coaches in a competition. As players earn points by matching timing and pitch, coaches critique performances and offer tips. Some song lyrics contain references to suggestive behavior (such as “On her black satin sheets is where he started to freak;” “But girl you make it hard to be faithful. . .” and “I got you off these walls, I got you outta my bed”). A handful of songs also reference alcohol (such as “Will I choose water over wine. . .” and “Boys drank all that Magnolia wine”).

The rating information, including rating summary, is provided by ESRB Entertainment Software Rating Board (www.esrb.org). These games and other rating summaries can be found at ESRB.org. For the app, visit http://www.esrb.org/mobile.

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Around Austin Go to www.austinfamily.com for weekly updates of Around Austin news

Must-Do this month Pull out the fall clothes. Have your kids try on sweaters, jeans and coats so you know what will fit and what to give away. Hint: the Coats for Kids drive is right around the corner! Visit a pumpkin patch. It’s a twofer: great photos of the kids and pumpkins for decorating, carving and cooking. Get out and enjoy the cooler temps. Take a hike, enjoy a football game or have a picnic in the park.

BY THE NUMBERS

AUSTIN FAMILIES WITH FOOD ALLERGIES HOST WALK Join Austin Families with Food Allergies for the 5th Annual FARE Walk on Saturday, November 1, at Mueller Lake Park. All proceeds benefit Food Allergy and Research Education (FARE), a non-profit organization that provides services nationwide, funds research of food allergies and has been at the forefront of progress in food allergy awareness, advocacy, education and research. Findings from FARE-sponsored studies have been used to change laws in Texas, improve school policies, raise public awareness and provide education for patients, caregivers and health professionals. Austin Families with Food Allergies is a support group of parents located throughout the Austin metro area who are raising children with food allergies. For more information, to register or donate, visit foodallergywalk.org/Austin2014. If you are a parent or caregiver interested in becoming involved with Austin Families with Food Allergies, visit bigtent.com/groups/affa. BRIDGES TO GROWTH ANNOUNCES NEW “SMART BEGINNINGS” PROGRAM Bridges to Growth, the early childhood program of The Georgetown Project, announced Smart Beginnings, a program of parenting classes, events for children, family support, and a lending library for infant and toddler toys and books. The program is free for parents, caregivers and childcare providers of young children. “Thanks to Georgetown Health Foundation, we will be able to offer Smart Beginnings classes and events free of charge, which will remove barriers and increase access to quality parent training and support for caregivers of children 0-3 from all walks of life,” said Leslie Janca, executive director of The Georgetown Project. “Research shows that the first three years of a child’s life is crucial to healthy development, and that early environment can either cause lasting negative consequences or set a child on the path for future success. By helping parents learn to nurture early development and cultivate positive family relationships from birth, we hope to increase the number of babies that have a strong start in life.” Smart Beginnings class offerings include Learning through Play; Understanding Your Baby’s Communication; Basic Parenting for Infants and Toddlers; Toddler Issues: Tantrums, Aggression and Potty Training; Encouraging Literacy in Toddlers and Preschoolers; and Stay Calm: Don’t Take it Out on the Kids. Family events at Bridges to Growth include Baby Time, Toddler Time and Parents’ Morning Out. “Both my children have improved social skills and developed friendships that carry over to other activities,” said a parent of Toddler Time. “They have developed language skills. The opportunity to talk to their peers and other adults is good for them.”

Average spent on a Halloween costume. source: National Retail Federation

Other resources at Bridges to Growth include a lending library, teacher workroom, parent talk hotline, referrals, family counseling and a family support group. To pre-register for classes or events, call (512) 864-3008. For more information, visit georgetownproject.org. TEXAS TEEN BOOK FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES AUTHOR LINEUP The Texas Teen Book Festival announces a lineup of 29 authors representing popular and critically acclaimed writers in the Young Adult

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genre. Two of the most-anticipated headliners are James Dashner, author of the Maze Runner series, and Lauren Oliver, creator of the bestselling Delirium series and Before I Fall. Other headlining authors include Scott Westerfeld, Marie Lu, A.S. King and Andrew Smith. The one-day festival takes place Saturday, October 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at St. Edward’s University, 3001 South Congress Ave. Organizers say the location offers free parking. The full list and schedule are available at texasteenbookfestival.org. “This year’s festival is the one to attend,” says librarian and festival founder Heather Schubert. “You’ll find amazing keynotes, interactive events, writing workshops, a hilarious game show and much, much more. Expect to leave with a list of new favorite authors and a stack of books you can’t wait to read.” The popular game show feature is a high-energy competition with teams of authors led by Marie Lu (the Legend trilogy) and Paolo Bacigalupi (Shipbreaker). “This year’s Game Show will take the competition to a new, ridiculous level with challenges ranging from the awesome to the zany,” says show host Sarah Pitre. “I’m looking forward to hijinks with some of my favorite authors, all of whom are good sports. I promise that they will walk away with at least some remnant of their pride,” Pitre says. The Texas Teen Book Festival “bookends” the Texas Book Festival, which features books for all ages and takes place October 25 and 26 in and around the state capitol building. Both festivals are free and open to the public, thanks to generous donors, sponsors and volunteers. GEOCACHING HIGHLIGHTED AT TEXAS STATE PARKS More than 90 state parks located throughout Texas are introducing future geocachers to the sport by hosting over 1,200 geocaches, or prize-filled containers, hidden within state parks. Caches can be located online in advance, found by using a Global Positioning System (GPS) or by downloading a free and easy-to-use smart phone app. Many state parks host Geocache 101 workshops—free with normal park entry—to teach newbies the basics of this modern-day twist on an old-fashioned treasure hunt. “The sport of geocaching continues to grow rapidly in Texas and around the globe with nearly 2.5 million geocaches available to the public being sought after by more than 6 million active participants,” says Robert Owen, Texas Outdoor Family Program coordinator for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “For Texans, geocaching is especially accessible and a fun way to get outside with nearly 64,000 geocaches across the state.” The ongoing Texas State Parks Geocache Challenge that kicked off Oct. 1, 2012 has attracted more than 250 Texas households so far, and anyone can participate. Park visitors of all ages can learn interesting facts and stories about Texas history, conservation and stewardship of Texas state parks while also earning prizes. Prizes vary depending on how many caches are found, but range from an entry-level Pathtag, keychain and sticker for finding 10 caches to a platinum-level Pathtag and a free night of camping for finding 80 caches. Geocaching is also supported by online communities, including www.geocaching.com. Participants find coordinates, share photos and tips, and learn all the particulars about the activity. After finding the latitude and longitude of a hidden cache, geocachers are guided to within 12 feet of its location. Then, geocachers search the surrounding terrain until they locate the “goodies” in a container that might be as small as a film canister or as large as an ammo box. These treasures are never buried, so no shovel is needed. For more information and to find coordinates of prize-filled caches in Texas State Parks, visit texasstateparks.org/geocache. continued on page 10

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CITY OF AUSTIN OPENS HOUSING AUTHORITY WAITING LIST For the first time since 2006, the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) will open its Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) waiting list on October 22 through 29. In contrast to past years, now the pre-application process will be available online only at austin.apply4housing.com. Applicants can apply online at any time—day or night—between October 22 and 29 using any device with internet access, including a smart phone. To provide applicants with equal access to the pre-application process, HACA has partnered with a number of groups, businesses and community organizations across the Austin area to provide internet access. Those who apply during the eight-day period are entered into a random lottery for an equal chance at one of the 2,500 available spots on the waiting list. Organizers say they expect the number of applicants to be between 20,000 and 40,000. For more information, call 888-262-3949. ONE WORLD THEATRE OFFERS “TRASH” IN NOVEMBER One World Theatre announced in September that the puppet show “Trash” would appear on its stage on Saturday, November 15, at noon. “Trash” is a 40-minute musical that presents a monster lesson

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for kids— and their adults—to reduce, reuse and recycle. The story begins with a harmless compost pile that feeds off the city’s thoughtless waste. The pile quickly morphs into a monster trash heap that threatens to consume everything. Only when the city learns to manage its monster-sized waste problems does it regain control and rescue its citizens. The feel-good musical is presented by the Austin-based Puppet Improv Project and features original songs created through the collaborative efforts of producer and director Sara Farr, writer and actor Joel Ausanka and composer Ammon Taylor. It combines muppet-style puppetry with both scripted text and improvisation to create a unique, interactive theater experience. To read a blog about the creation of the show, including photos of the puppet-building process, visit puppetimprovproject.org/ trash.html. The show has general admission seating. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for children.

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“Focus on the positives” One woman’s story of diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy by Sherida Mock

In April 2013, Jodi Sorenson was 28 weeks pregnant, building a new house and settling into a new job when she and her husband, Adam, received shocking news: Jodi had stage 2 breast cancer. Within days, they were immersed in the lingo of cancer treatment—biopsies, chemo pumps and white blood cell counts. There were no certainties; the ordeal tested them time and again. Today Jodi and Adam have a healthy 15-month-old son named Sven—and in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a remarkable story of strength and hope. On the cancer diagnosis. I actually had a dream that I had a lump in my breast. I woke up and went right to it. It took about six weeks to get the diagnosis; I was very persistent. My OB said it was probably just a cyst, but my husband and I are worriers by nature, so we [asked for] an ultrasound. They told me it was a complex cyst and not to worry. I said, “Can I get a biopsy?” I got the official diagnosis on April 2. We met with Dr. Punit Chadha with Texas Oncology, and he told us it was safe to do chemo. He was very comforting, very reassuring. On the treatment itself. I had a core biopsy and genetic testing to decide which medications to use. The tumor was the size of a large grape. They decided I would wear a chemo pump. I had a port put in my chest, which was supposed to be a 20-minute procedure and ended up being overnight in the hospital because I started having contractions. I had contractions for the rest of my pregnancy. I would go in on a Friday, and they would give me this bag that would dispense the chemo drugs every few minutes over 72 hours. Then I would get the pump taken off and be given more chemo; I was on a cocktail of three different drugs. I was kind of surprised to find out that after my second treatment they were going to discontinue treatment until I had the 12 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

baby. Part of me was relieved that I was going to get a break, but the other part of me hated that there was this cancer we weren’t doing anything about. I looked forward to getting [the pump] off, and then I felt like I wasn’t attacking this tumor. It wasn’t the relief I was expecting. On her doctors. Dr. Chadha was my doctor with Texas Oncology and Dr. David Berry was my high-risk OB doctor with Austin Perinatal Associates, and the two of them—I couldn’t have gotten through it without them. They were really good about giving me just as much information as I needed. They didn’t want to overwhelm me. On her marriage. I had only been married for five months when I was diagnosed, and I felt guilty that Adam picked me. This didn’t have to be his path. He was great through the whole thing. I lean on my husband a lot. There are times that I wish that he was spared [the stress], but I’m so glad that he was there. On labor and delivery. Ten days after I had chemo I went into labor. I still had six weeks left of my pregnancy, and they were going to have me do natural birth, which terrified me because I was pretty weak from the chemo. But having a C-section is surgery, and my white blood cells were so low. Because of the pregnancy, they weren’t able to give me the shots that they would typically give somebody to boost white blood cells. Dr. Richard Helmer, my oncologist while I was at the hospital, informed us that getting an epidural wasn’t an option because of my blood cell count. I was deathly afraid that I was going to die during birth. It was the thing that I thought about the most. Am I even going to know my child? Is he going to make it? Am I going to make it? Not a day goes by that I’m not so thankful to know him. View the magazine online at austinfamily.com

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Luckily, Dr. Berry happened to be at the hospital on a Sunday, and just seeing him was such a relief. He did an ultrasound, so we knew the baby was healthy. It was seven and a half hours of labor. It was pretty easy, I guess. [Laughs] Well, it wasn’t easy, but it could have been worse. I was in the hospital for a week, and Sven was in intensive care for a couple more days after that. On her treatment after delivery. The timing was perfect. Sven came early enough that it didn’t interrupt my cycle of chemo, but he came far enough along that he was healthy. I felt really selfish. It was this feeling that I had a lot, this feeling that I was taking care of myself when I should have been taking care of the baby. All my doctors were really good at reassuring me that I couldn’t take care of my baby if I couldn’t take care of myself. On working during treatment. I only missed five weeks of work. I worked full-time up until I had Sven, and then I went back to work full-time after the five weeks off. It helped me get out of myself and focus on something else. I had just started a new job at Shelton Keller in February. They were so incredible and understanding and supportive. One of my coworkers had had breast cancer five years before. She told me her story, and just cried with me, and she was great. To see her five years out living a normal life, I didn’t even know that she’d had cancer. I just kept thinking, if she’s okay, I’m going to be okay. It was pretty incredible timing. I think that I took that position at that time for a reason. Her advice for others in similar circumstances. Focus on the positives. No amount of worrying is going to make anything better. Take every positive and celebrate it, and take every negative as a learning experience. Learn to take care of your body, and listen to your body. You have to be your own advocate. No one doctor is going to know or remember everything. You’re going to have to say, “Should I be getting a scan?” Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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Candy Crush Strategies for handling the Halloween haul Every year on Halloween, my grandmother would make a dreaded meal: liver and onions. Before my mom and her sisters could go trick-or-treating, they had to choke down that dinner. I think it was Grandma’s attempt at balancing out all the candy she knew would be coming home later that night. I’m not willing to cook liver, but I do worry about my kids having too much sugar. According to Forbes magazine, Americans will spend over $2 billion on Halloween candy this year. As childhood obesity continues to be a concern, conditions like diabetes require strict diets and dentists warn about cavities. How are families supposed to balance the traditional fun of Halloween with healthy lifestyles? Here are some ideas for handling the candy crisis without being the meanest mom on the block: Set up a little “store” at home, using candy as barter for items like holiday pencils, bouncy balls, puzzles and gum. Establish one night as a candy free-for-all and then have “The Great Pumpkin” come take the rest away. That’s what my friend Pam does for her four kids and so far, no complaints. Some dentists and orthodontists will buy your child’s sack of loot, paying by weight. Ask around to see if yours follows suit. Freeze the chocolate candy to dole out over several months or to use in baking. 14 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

When your kids come back to your house, have them trick-or-treat at your door a final time. Instead of giving candy, trade them a new toy or book for the candy they’ve already collected. My friend Andrea lets her kids pick out their favorites from the candy haul, then sends the rest off to work with Dad. Dentist and father of six Doug Brower recommends eating all the candy at once, rather than spreading it out and letting sugar sit on the teeth for a long time. Organize a neighborhood Halloween activity instead of trick-or-treating. A movie night, games or even a scavenger hunt still gives you the chance to dress up and socialize without focusing on candy. Let the kids choose a certain amount to keep, then take the rest to a local shelter. Make sure to involve the whole family. Whatever you do, remember the memories you have of Halloween from your own childhood. The fun was in dressing up and seeing friends—not so much the candy. You can have a great holiday and make healthier traditions for your family without making too big a deal about sugar. After all, Halloween comes around just once a year. Eliana Osborn is a freelance writer based in Arizona. View the magazine online at austinfamily.com

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Ten things... for breast cancer awareness month!

Wear pink. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the official color of breast cancer awareness.

Organize a fundraiser to pay for mammograms for women who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford them.

Tell the men you know that although their risk is lower, they can also get breast cancer.

Support someone you know who has been diagnosed.

Perform a self exam every month. Forty percent of breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump.

Minimize your risk by following a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding smoking and alcohol.

Learn your family history of breast cancer and other cancers.

Educate yourself on risk factors, including family history and personal health history.

Know the signs and symptoms. Visit nationalbreastcancer.org for more info.

10 Talk to your doctor about screening for breast cancer, which can vary depending on your risk factors. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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family matters by Dr. Betty Richardson

Help your child learn to love reading

My daughter Emily is ten years old and doesn’t like to read. Emily’s mother also avoids reading and says she doesn’t like to read. I tried to encourage Emily to read by taking her to the library to check out a book. She kept procrastinating and then lost the book just before it was due. I can’t understand not loving books. Do you have any suggestions on motivating my daughter to read?

Children are like little “copy cats,” watching and copying what parents do. Children of parents who model the enjoyment of reading are more apt to love reading. Parents who say they hate reading and allow their children to avoid reading are shutting a door to success for their child. It would be wonderful if your wife could be a reading role model for your daughter but even if she won’t, you can model your love of reading. You can also do a variety of other things to encourage Emily to become a reader.

Read in parallel. See if Emily would like to pick a book you can read and discuss together. You can check for appropriateness of books and find good discussion questions at commonsensemedia. org. You can find reading lists and more at goodreads.com. Or check the Texas Library Association’s book lists at txla.org/reading-lists. Try an e-book. Perhaps an iPad or other e-reader will spark your daughter’s interest. Our public libraries have a large selection of e-books suitable for children of all ages. But before you buy an e-reader, see if you can borrow one from a friend. That way, you can return it if Emily doesn’t take to it. Browse a bookstore. Take Emily to a bookstore to browse. The large number and variety of books and magazines might provide Emily with a subject that fascinates her. Let her take the lead. Encourage your daughter to be curious and to read about things she is curious about. Let her plan an outing researching places to go and things to do. Encourage a hobby or interest and to read to learn about it. Ask her to join a book club or help her organize a new one, including inviting her friends, choosing the book and writing the discussion questions. Consider a tutor. Emily might need some help with her reading skills. We used to think that by the fourth grade, most children had stopped learning to read and started reading to learn. But new research shows that even children in fifth grade and beyond are still perfecting the skill. (See time.com/3015497/learn-to-read-pastfourth-grade.) Encourage reading year-round. It is important for Emily to read during school breaks and summer vacation. Teachers tell me that not only do kids get behind if they don’t read in the summer, but they don’t catch up with kids who do. Reading ability has everything to do with success in school and life. Children must read in order to understand math problems, study foreign languages, follow a recipe and learn the rules of sports. “Reading skills are the best indicator of current and future student success,” says the website of the National Association of Secondary School Principals. “A recent study indicates that reading skills are the best predictor of future success and earning power.” These are just a few ideas for getting Emily to read. I’m sure this list will inspire you to come up with even more. I feel certain you will succeed in supporting your daughter to become a lifelong reader. 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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Ayude a su niño/a a aprender a amar la lectura

Mi hija Emily tiene diez años de edad y no le gusta leer. La madre de Emily también evita la lectura y dice que no le gusta leer. Traté de animar a Emily a leer llevándola a la biblioteca para que sacara un libro. Siguió haciendo desidia y luego perdió el libro justo antes de la fecha en que se tenía que entregar. No puedo entender el no amar los libros. ¿Tiene alguna sugerencia para motivar a mi hija a leer?

Los niños son pequeños imitadores, observando y copiando lo que los padres hacen. Los hijos de padres que modelan el placer a la lectura son más propensos a amar la lectura. Los padres que dicen que odian la lectura y permiten que sus hijos evitar leer están cerrando una puerta para el éxito de su hijo/a. Sería maravilloso si su esposa pudiera ser un modelo de lectura para su hija, pero incluso si no, usted puede modelar su amor por la lectura. También puede hacer otras variedades de cosas para animar a Emily a convertirse en una lectora. Leer en paralelo. Vea si a Emily le gustaría escoger un libro que usted puede leer y juntos dialogar. Puede revisar que los libros sean apropiados y encontrar buenas preguntas para su dialogo en commonsensemedia.org. Puede encontrar listas de libros para leer y más en goodreads.com. O revise la listas de libros de

“Texas Library Association” Asociación Bibliotecaria de Texas en txla.org/reading-lists. Intente un libro electrónico. Quizás un iPad u otro lector electrónico provocaran el interés de su hija. Nuestras bibliotecas públicas tienen una selección grande de libros electrónicos adecuados para niños de todas edades. Pero antes de comprar un lector electrónico, vea si puede pedir prestado uno de un amigo. De esa manera, puede devolverlo si Emily no le toma interés. Explorar una librería. Lleve a Emily a una librería para explorar. La gran cantidad y variedad de libros y revistas podrían proporcionar a Emily con un tema que le fascine. Deje que tome la iniciativa. Anime a su hija a ser curiosa y a leer sobre las cosas por las que siente curiosidad. Deje que planee una excursión e investigue lugares para visitar y cosas que hacer. Sugiérale tener un pasatiempo o interés y de leer para aprender sobre él. Pregúntele si quiere formar parte de un club de lectura o ayúdela a organizar uno nuevo, que incluye invitar a sus amigos, la elección del libro y escribir las preguntas de discusión. Considere la posibilidad de un tutor. Emily podría necesitar un poco de ayuda con sus habilidades en lectura. Solíamos pensar que por el cuarto grado, la mayoría de los niños habían dejado de aprender a leer y empezaban a leer para aprender. Pero nuevas investigaciones muestran que incluso los niños de quinto grado y más allá todavía están perfeccionando la habilidad. (Vea time.com/3015497/learn-to-read-past-fourth-grade.) Fomentar la lectura durante todo el año. Es importante para Emily leer durante las vacaciones escolares y las vacaciones de verano. Los maestros me dicen que no sólo los niños se atrasan si no leen en el verano, pero también no se ponen al día con los niños que si lo hacen. La capacidad de lectura tiene mucho que ver con el éxito en la escuela y la vida. Los niños deben leer para entender los problemas de matemáticas, estudiar idiomas extranjeras, seguir una receta y aprender las reglas de los deportes. “Las habilidades de lectura son el mejor indicador del éxito actual y futuro de los estudiantes,” dice el sito web de la Asociación Nacional de Directores de Escuelas Secundarias. “Un estudio reciente indica que las habilidades de lectura son el mejor predictor de éxito en el futuro y el poder de generar ingresos.” Estas son sólo algunas ideas para conseguir que Emily lea. Estoy seguro de que esta lista le inspirará a subir aún más. Confío que tendrá éxito en apoyar a su hija para poder convertirse en una lectora de por vida. 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.

18 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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9 Ways

a doula can help you have a better birth by Phyllis Brasenell

You’ve just gotten the big news: you’re pregnant! Now you’re dreaming up names, opening a college fund and scouring Pinterest for the best DIY baby food recipes. You and your partner have signed up for childbirth education classes, and you have found a trusted care provider. We all know it takes a village to raise a child, but it also takes a village to have a baby. Along with your partner and care provider, a doula is a great part of your birth support team. Think of a doula as your knowledgeable guide through pregnancy. She provides non-medical care with continuous informational, physical and emotional support before, during and after birth. Whether this baby is your first or your fifth, whether you’re planning to have your baby in the hospital or out of the hospital or with a doctor or a midwife, investing in a doula can help you in some key ways to feel more calm and confident in welcoming your little one.

Help develop your birth plan A doula can meet with you prenatally to talk about your goals and expectations for the big day and talk about how you will best work together. She can note your preferences in a birth plan, which you can then review with your care provider and bring with you on the day you go into labor.

Help you decide when to go to the hospital You’ve probably heard that labor comes in fits and starts or heard of couples being sent home from the hospital because they’ve arrived too early. Your doula can help you avoid frustration and disappointment by joining you at home to labor there as long as possible, while still departing for the hospital in a safe amount of time.

Support your partner in helping you For many families, a birthing is the first time a partner has been around a laboring woman, and the partner may feel unsure of how to help. A doula can assist your partner in supporting you by providing reassurance and encouragement. She can also help your partner take care of himself or herself—so he or she can take better care of you—by making sure he or she is eating, hydrating and resting as needed.

Provide physical comfort Remember all those handy tips for labor you learned in your classes? Well, there’s a good chance you and your partner will

20 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

forget a lot of what you learned once you’re in labor land. Your doula can guide your partner in helping you labor by reminding him or her of comfort measures to try.

Help you interpret information and ask questions Labor and birth can be nerve-wracking because we can’t predict or control the outcome. As decisions need to be made with your care provider, a doula can guide you in asking questions and understanding information so that you can feel confident in your decision-making.

Help with breastfeeding If you choose to breastfeed, a doula can stay after the birth to help you establish the first latch and feel more comfortable with feeding. She can also check in on you after delivery and refer you to other professionals if you need more in-depth support.

Be the “thermostat” (not the thermometer) Labor and birth is a physically demanding process, but it’s also very emotional for both mother and partner. A doula can be the emotional thermostat for the room: helping to set a tone of calm even if things don’t go according to the birth plan.

Manage the family If you’re worried about a waiting area full of family members, a doula can act as the “ambassador” for your labor room. She can update the family by text and sit with them periodically to answer their questions, update them with what’s happening during labor and let them know how mom is doing.

Work with staff During the birth, your doctor, midwife and nurse will likely be attending to other laboring mothers as well, so their time may be split or they may change out if they reach the end of a shift. A doula supports your labor continuously and is there to work collaboratively with your medical care team. She can help make sure your immediate needs are met so that your care providers can focus on the medical needs of you and your baby.

Phyllis Brasenell is a DONA-certified birth doula and owner of AustinBorn, a community and education center dedicated to new and expecting parents.

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the learning curve by Jennifer VanBuren

Kicked out of school and into what?

Suspension. Expulsion. Exclusionary discipline. Kicking a kid out of school is the most extreme form of discipline a school district can hand out, so you might think that the removal of a child from his or her educational environment would be reserved for the most extreme offenses—for children who pose a threat to the safety of their peers or school staff. The data suggests otherwise.

“Nationwide, as many as 95 percent of out-of-school suspensions are for nonviolent misbehavior—like being disruptive, acting disrespectfully, tardiness, profanity and dress code violations,” according to the study “Zero Tolerance, Zero Evidence” by the Education Policy Center of Indiana University. “There are always going to be disobedient, disruptive kids in school,” says John Hudson, Waco ISD Truancy, Attendance, Dropout Prevention and Credit Recovery supervisor. “It is the response to this behavior that’s inadequate. I know it’s a cliché, but when all you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail.” But this is a problem only a few students face, right? Not so. In a groundbreaking study, “Breaking School’s Rules,” the Council of State Gov22 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

“Schools should be seeking to provide differing levels of support and interventions to students, based on their needs.” — Arne Duncan, U.S. secretary of education ernments Justice Center tracked over one million public secondary students in Texas for six years. They found that nearly 60 percent of these students were suspended or expelled at least once between their 7th and 12th grade years. You read that right. Nearly three in every five public secondary students in Texas are suspended or expelled at least once between 7th and 12th grade. The study also found that these disci-

plinary measures increased the likelihood that a student would drop out of school or wind up in the juvenile justice system. The thing is, removing a child from school may seem to be an economical, uncomplicated solution, but suspensions and expulsions have long-term costs. Students may be left home unsupervised, and they lose valuable classroom time that is hard to recover. As a disciplinary measure, suspensions and expulsions fail to teach students the skills and strategies they need to improve their behavior and avoid future problems. And not all students receive equal treatment. According to the Office for Civil Rights, African-American students are more than three times as likely as their white peers to be expelled or suspended. And while students who receive special

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education services make up 12 percent of the country’s student body, they make up 25 percent of students receiving multiple out-of-school suspensions and 23 percent of students receiving a school-related arrest. So, what can be done? In January 2014, the departments of Justice and Education together released a “School Discipline Guidance Package” intended to encourage the re-thinking of school discipline. The package is directed at educators, principals, district administrators, school board members, charter school heads, school resource officers, counselors, social workers, parents, community leaders and, importantly, students themselves. Within this package are a set of guiding principles aimed at improving school climates and discipline:

in instruction as much as possible.

Students should be treated equally and fairly.

All school personnel and school-based law enforcement officers should receive training on how to discipline in a fair and equitable way. Districts should keep track of disciplinary actions and evaluate whether policies are discriminatory

toward subgroups such as children of color, students with disabilities or at-risk children. As Frederick Douglass famously said, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”

Jennifer VanBuren is an educator, doula and mother of three who lives in Georgetown.

Positive school climates can help prevent misbehavior.

Misbehavior is an external sign of difficulties in the child’s life, such as trauma, mental health issues, substance abuse or issues in the home, school or community. A school should work with outside community resources to determine cause and provide support while the student is still engaged in education. Suspending or expelling students can negatively affect the overall school climate, diminishing trust between families and school staff. Instead, teachers, administrators, support staff and school-based law enforcement officers should receive regular training on how to engage students and promote positive behavior. In addition, when safety is not an issue, school-related disciplinary issues should be handled by the school, rather than turned over to law enforcement.

Expectations should be clear and consistent, and consequences should be developmentally appropriate and proportional. “Schools should be seeking to provide differing levels of support and interventions to students, based on their needs,” says U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “The one-size-fits-all mentality simply doesn’t work.” Families, students and school personnel should be involved in the creation and implementation of disciplinary policies at the school, and policies should be clearly communicated. With training, staff can use alternative strategies that keep all students engaged Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

austinfamily.com | October 2014 | 23

¿Expulsado de la escuela y ahora qué? como ser disruptivo, actuando de manera irrespetuosa, tardanzas, blasfemia y violaciones del código de vestimenta”, según el estudio “Cero Tolerancia, Cero Evidencia” por el Centro de la Política de Educación de la Universidad de Indiana.

Suspensión. Expulsión. Disciplina excluyente. Echar a un niño de la escuela es la forma más extrema de disciplina que un distrito escolar puede aplicar. Por lo que usted podría pensar que el sacar a un niño de su ambiente educativo se reservaría para los delitos más extremos—para los niños que representan una amenaza para la seguridad de sus compañeros o personal de la escuela. Los datos sugieren lo contrario “A nivel nacional, hasta el 95 por ciento de las suspensiones fuera de la escuela son por mal comportamiento no violento—

“Siempre van a haber niños desobedientes, disruptivos en la escuela”, dice John Hudson, Absentismo, Asistencia, Prevención de Deserción Escolar y Supervisor de Recuperación de Crédito en Waco ISD. “Es la respuesta a este comportamiento que es inadecuada. Sé que es un cliché, pero cuando todo lo que tienes es un martillo, todos los problemas parecen un clavo.” Pero este es un problema sólo unos pocos estudiantes se enfrentan, ¿verdad? No es así. En un estudio sin precedentes, “Romper las Reglas de la Escuela,” el Centro del Consejo Estatal Gubernamental de Justicia rastreó más de un millón de estudiantes de secundarias públicas en Texas durante seis años. Ellos encontraron que casi el 60 por ciento de estos estudiantes fueron suspendidos o expulsados por lo menos una vez entre los años de sus séptimo y doceavo grados. Ha leído bien. Casi tres de cada cinco estudiantes de secundaria públicas en Texas son suspendidos o expulsados al menos una vez entre el séptimo y doceavo grados. El estudio también encontró que estas medidas disciplinarias aumentaron la probabilidad de que un estudiante podría abandonar la escuela o terminar en el sistema de justicia juvenil. La cosa es, el sacar a un niño de la escuela puede parecer ser una solución económica, sencilla, pero las suspensiones y expulsiones tienen costos a largo plazo. Podrían dejar a los estudiantes en casa sin supervisión, y pierden valioso tiempo de clase que es difícil de recuperar. Como medida disciplinaria, suspensiones y expulsiones no pueden enseñar a los estudiantes las habilidades y estrategias que necesitan para mejorar su comportamiento y evitar problemas en el futuro. Y no todos los estudiantes reciben un trato igual. De acuerdo con la Oficina de Derechos Civiles, los estudiantes afro-americanos tiene tres veces más probabilidades que sus compañeros blancos de ser expulsados o suspendidos. Y mientras que los estudiantes que reciben servicios de educación especial son el 12 por ciento del cuerpo estudiantil del país, constituyen el 25 por ciento de los estudiantes que reciben múltiples suspensiones fuera de la escuela y el 23 por ciento de los estudiantes que reciben un arresto relacionado con la escuela. Entonces, ¿qué se puede hacer? En enero del 2014, los departamentos de Justicia y de Educación en conjunto lanzaron un “Paquete de Guía Disciplinaria Escolar” con el fin de fomentar el replanteamiento de la disciplina escolar. El paquete está dirigido a educadores, directores, administradores del distrito, miembros de la mesa directiva, los directores de escuelas chárter, oficiales de recursos escolares, consejeros, trabacontinúa en la página 29

24 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Education Guide 2014-15 Private Schools Ace Academy 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin www.austingifted.org Bannockburn Christian Academy 7100 Brodie Ln., Austin www.bcaaustin.org Brentwood Christian School 11908 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin www.brentwoodchristian.org Cathedral School of Saint Mary’s 910 San Jacinto, Austin www.smcschoolaustin.org Challenger School 15101 Avery Ranch Rd., Austin www.challengerschool.com 1521 Joyce Ln., Round Rock Holy Family Catholic School 9400 Neenah Ave., Austin www.holyfamilycs.org Hyde Park Schools 3901 Speedway, Austin www.hp-schools.org 11400 N. MoPac Expwy., Austin International School of Texas 4402 Hudson Bend Rd., Austin www.internationalschooloftexas.com Jardin De Ninos Interlingua 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin www.austinbilingualschool.com 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 107 R.R. 620, Ste. 300, Lakeway Magnolia School, The Lake Travis www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com Rawson Saunders School 2614-A Exposition Blvd., Austin www.rawsonsaunders.org Redeemer Lutheran School 1500 W. Anderson Ln., Austin www.redeemerschool.net San Juan Diego Catholic School 800 Herndon Ln., Austin www.sjdchs.org St. Austin Catholic School 1911 San Antonio St., Austin www.staustinschool.org St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School 9300 Neenah Ave., Austin www.saviochs.org St. Francis School 300 E. Huntland Dr., Austin www.stfrancis-school.org St. Gabriel’s Catholic School 2500 Wimberly Ln., Austin www.sgs-austin.org St. Helens Catholic School 2700 E. University Ave., Georgetown www.shclions.org St. Ignatius, Martyr Catholic School 120 W. Oltorf, Austin www.st-ignatius.org/school St. Louis Catholic School 2114 St. Joseph, Austin www.st-louis-school.org St. Mary’s Catholic School 520 Washburn St., Taylor www.stmarystaylor.org St. Michael’s Catholic Academy 3000 Barton Creek Blvd., Austin www.smca.com St. Theresa’s Catholic School 4311 Small Dr., Austin www.st-theresa.org Santa Cruz Catholic High 1110 Main St., Buda www.sccstx.org

512-206-4070 512-892-2706 512-835-5983x118 512-476-1480 512-341-8000 512-255-8844 512-246-4455 512-465-8338 512-465-8333 512-351-3403 512-432-5317 512-299-5732 512-466-2409 512-266-9620 512-476-8382 512-451-6478 512-804-1935 512-477-3751 512-388-8846 512-454-0848 512-327-7755 512-869-3244 512-442-8547 512-614-6622x245 512-352-2313 512-328-2323 512-451-7105 512-312-2137

3yrs-12th K4-5th PreK-12th PreK4-8th PreK-8th PreK-8th PreK4-8th K4-8th 9th-12th 3-12 yrs Inf-3rd

512-220-9186 512-928-3000 512-805-3000

7th-11th K-5th K-6th

3-13yrs Indiv. Instr 1st-9th Dyslexia K-8th 9th-12th PreK-8th 9th-12th PreK-8th JrK-8th PreK-8th PreK3-8th PreK4-8th PreK-8th 9th-12th PreK4-8th PreK4-8th

Charter Schools Sci-Tech Preparatory School Texas Preparatory School

6405 S. IH 35, Austin www.waysideschools.org 7540 Ed Bluestein Blvd., Austin www.texasprep.us 400 Uhland Rd., San Marcos

Montessori/Preschools/Kindergarten Bluebonnet School of Canyon Creek Bluebonnet School of Cedar Park Children’s Center of Austin Country Home Learning Center Extend-A-Care For Kids Fine Arts Academy Froggin Learning Center Kiddie Academy of Pflugerville North Oaks Child Development Center Primrose Schools Rainbow Station Spicewood Country School Stepping Stone Schools

10321 Boulder Ln., Austin www.bluebonnetschool.com 3420 El Salido Pkwy., Cedar Park www.bluebonnetschool.com 6507 Jester Blvd., Austin www.childrenscenterofaustin.com 8100 Bee Caves Rd., Austin 4308 N. Quinlan Pk. Rd., Austin 1310 US Hwy 183 North, Austin www.countryhomelearningcenter.com 6900 Escarpment Blvd., Austin 77 area campuses www.eackids.org Allandale www.dancediscovery.com Avery Ranch Corner of 360 and 2222, Austin www.frogginlearning.com 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville www.kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville 8830 Cainwood Lane, Austin www.northoakscountry.com 10 area locations www.primroseschools.com 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Cedar Park www.rainbowstationaustin.org 6102 Spicewood Springs Rd., Austin www.spicewoodcountry.com Locations throughout Austin Metro www.steppingstoneschool.com

512-219-5100 Inf-K 512-331-9009 Inf-K 512-795-8300 Inf-PreK 512-329-6633 512-266-6130 512-331-1442 Inf-13yrs 512-288-8220 512-472-9402 Inf-PreK AfterSch 512-419-7611 3rd-5th 512-658-2996 512-345-3764 1-10yrs Opening January 2015 512-250-5117 Inf-PreK AfterSch See ad on page 1 Inf-K 512-260-9700 Inf-12yrs 512-346-2992 Inf-K 512-459-0258 Inf-K

Resources Austin Learning Center 3355 Bee Caves Rd., Austin www.austinlearningcenter.com 512-330-9007 Academic tutoring Best in Class 13376 Research Blvd. #127, Austin www.bestinclasseducation.com 512-375-3245 Tutoring Brain Balance 3267 Bee Caves Rd., Suite 118, Austin www.brainbalancecenters.com 512-328-7771 Social, academic or behavioral issues EduCenter by NETS 1900 Cypress Creek, Ste. 101, Cedar Park www.educenter4me.com 512-996-9260 Speech language, entrepreneurial learning and speech pathology/ therapy tutoring, bilingual Mathnasium Round Rock www.mathnasium.com/roundrock 512-415-5371 Math tutoring East Round Rock www.mathnasium.com/eastroundrock 512-763-7587 Cedar Park www.mathnasium.com/cedarpark 512-869-6284 Wonder Lab 1102 West Ave., Austin www.wonderlablearning.com 512-963-9606 Upper elementary & middle school learning lab

26 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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viene de la página 24

jadores sociales, padres, líderes de la comunidad y sobre todo, a los propios estudiantes. Dentro de este paquete hay un conjunto de principios destinados a mejorar el ambiente escolar y la disciplina:

1 Ambientes escolares positivos pueden

Los estudiantes deben ser tratados con igualdad y justicia.

con discapacidades o niños en situación de riesgo.

Todo el personal de la escuela y los oficiales del orden en las escuelas deben ser capacitados sobre cómo disciplinar de una manera justa y equitativa. Los distritos deben llevar un registro de las acciones disciplinarias y evaluar si las políticas son discriminatorias hacia los subgrupos tales como los niños de color, los estudiantes

Como dice la famosa frase de Frederick Douglass: “Es más fácil construir a niños fuertes que reparar a hombres rotos.” Jennifer VanBuren es una educadora, doula y madre de tres hijos que vive en Georgetown.

ayudar a prevenir el mal comportamiento. El mal comportamiento es una señal externa de las dificultades en la vida del niño, tales como trauma, problemas de salud mental, abuso de sustancias o problemas en el hogar, la escuela o la comunidad. Una escuela debe trabajar con recursos externos comunitarios para determinar la causa y proporcionar apoyo mientras que un estudiante aún se dedica a la educación. Suspender o expulsar a estudiantes pueden afectar negativamente el ambiente escolar en general, disminuyendo la confianza entre las familias y el personal escolar. En cambio, los maestros, administradores, personal de apoyo y los oficiales del orden en las escuelas deben recibir capacitación periódica sobre la manera de involucrar a los estudiantes y promover un comportamiento positivo. Además, cuando la seguridad no es un problema, las cuestiones disciplinarias relacionadas con la escuela deben ser manejadas por la escuela, en vez de entregarlos a la policía.

2 Las expectativas deben ser claras y

consistentes, y las consecuencias deben ser adecuados al desarrollo y proporcional. “Las escuelas deben tratar de proporcionar diferentes niveles de intervenciones y apoyo a los estudiantes, basados en sus necesidades”, dijo el Secretario de Educación Arne Duncan. “La mentalidad de que una medida le queda a todos simplemente no funciona”. Las familias, los estudiantes y el personal escolar deben participar en la creación y aplicación de las políticas disciplinarias en la escuela, y las políticas deben ser comunicadas claramente. Con el entrenamiento, el personal puede utilizar estrategias alternativas que mantienen a todos los estudiantes comprometidos en la instrucción, en la medida de lo posible. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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family connections by Richard Singleton

Ghost in the machine Protect your privacy in the digital domain Creeper, Zombie Mist, Heartbleed, My Doom and Storm Worm. Hmmmm. The latest no-you-can’t-have-those video games? No. The scary movies coming to a theater near you for the Halloween season? Nope. A new series of novels perched on your most endearing introvert’s nightstand? Wrong again. These are scarier than any Halloween ghoul, more disastrous than any Hollywood B movie and have the potential to annihilate a lot more than any marathon video game session ever could. These are nasty, freakish and slithering computer viruses. If you’ve been

30 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

blessed to not go mano a mano with one, consider yourself one of the phantom-like few. Recently, McAfee Labs noted that the much-ballyhooed Heartbleed virus from earlier this year was one of the worst in history: over 600,000 websites were affected, and the estimated carnage runs into the hundreds of millions

of dollars. Jeepers! Further back than that, Target Corp. was almost brought to its knees by a nasty infiltration. And even more recently, iCloud vulnerabilities have proven that there’s nothing sacred when it comes to personal pictures online. Unless you’re a Luddite, disconnected from all things technology, there’s never a way to be 100 percent protected. So, if you want to avoid the ghoulish dark alleys and glowing eyes lurking in the internet bushes, what can you do?

Never post sensitive identity data online. It sounds obvious, but we often get caught up in social media

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and before we know it, we may have put enough information online for Identity Theft to rear its ugly head! Keep your darling digits off the digital landscape.

Listen to the experts. Sam Bowling, senior infrastructure engineer with SingleHop, notes that “personal information such as your name, address and age should not be put online.” Oops! Guilty as charged. He further instructs, “make sure that the websites you use have a secure server.” He also emphasizes that “some other information that should not be put online is where you work or attend school.” And finally, he offers this cautionary instruction: “With the growing epidemic of identity theft, cyber bullying and other harmful events, it may be helpful to adjust the privacy settings on your computer and update your antivirus software.”

zombies and vulnerabilities that lurk the internet. Let’s make sure we keep ourselves backed-up and ready for the eerie experience that is sure to face all of us at some point or another. Much more could be said, but it’s clear that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to protecting against identity theft, cyber attack and the

plague-ridden world of internet viruses. With a few practical insights in place, a few common-sense practices becoming habit and a redoubling of the effort to stay safe online, the fullmoon crazies are likely to become a bit less dangerous as you enjoy your digital life.

Richard Singleton, MACE, MAMFC, LPC, is the executive director at STARRY in Round Rock.

Duck lip selfies? Ugh. If you must. Provocative pics? Sexting? Never! If you wouldn’t want grandma and grandpa to see it, don’t post it. Rest assured that you look amazing without having to post for approval. We’ve learned from some of Hollywood’s most glam: your private pics might be one click away from prime time. That’s a nightmare on Elm Street that would make Freddy and Jason both roll over in their graves… wait, they are dead, aren’t they? If not, you’d rather spend an evening on the run from them than trying to clean up the path of destruction left over from a steamy indiscretion.

Backup. Backup. Backup. It may be tedious. It may be a mind-numbing trick when all you want is an ooey-gooey treat, but it’s worth the pain. My best friend called me recently and was lamenting the massive expense that had gone into cleaning a particularly nasty goblin off his Mac—yes, Mac lovers, you heard me right: his Mac. All of us are vulnerable…no matter which side you consider to be the dark side. PC, Mac, Windows, iOS, it just doesn’t matter. We are all vulnerable to the viral Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

austinfamily.com | October 2014 | 31

lifelines by Sara Rider

Is it infertility?

f you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a few months without results, you might wonder if the issue is infertility. But before you jump to any conclusions, you should know that it takes more than a few months to determine such a condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, infertility is the failure to become pregnant despite having frequent unprotected sex for at least a year in most cases and in six months in certain circumstances. About ten to 15 percent of couples in the U.S. receive this diagnosis. Falling birth rates According to the CDC, the fertility rate— that is, the number of births per 1,000 women between ages 15 and 44—in the U.S. has been falling since 2007. Does that mean that U.S. women are becoming less able to get pregnant? Not exactly. It turns out that the falling birth rate is more the result of societal choices, such as delaying the first pregnancy. “Women are having their first child at a later age, and they’re having fewer children,” says Dr. Lisa Hansard of Texas Fertility Center. “So if you start your family in your mid- to late-30s, then you’re not going to have enough time to have as many children. It’s not necessarily that infertility is a bigger component of the lower birth rates.”

32 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Factors causing infertility When a woman puts off pregnancy until her mid-30s, it can be harder for her to become pregnant. “The most common issue we see [in infertility] is advanced ovarian age,” says Dr. Hansard. “The average age of a patient that we see is 36. We know that fertility starts to decline around 34 or 35, and there’s a steady decline until 40 and a dramatic decline after 40.”

the determined cause, but may include education and counseling, fertility treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) or medication to treat infections and clotting disorders or help the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries.

infertility eventually become pregnant without it, according to the NIH. Sara Rider is a native Austinite who has worked with physicians and hospitals throughout Texas. She frequently writes freelance articles on health topics for newspapers and magazines.

Another option is to skip treatment. As many as 1 in 5 couples diagnosed with

But other factors can also contribute to infertility. According to the Mayo Clinic, in about a third of infertility cases, the cause involves only the man. In another third, the cause lies with the woman. And in the remaining cases, the cause either involves both the man and the woman, or the cause cannot be identified. For men, the Mayo Clinic cites problems with sperm production or function, which can be caused by a variety of problems ranging from diabetes to prior infections, such as mumps, or problems with the delivery of sperm. Other causes include prior cancer treatment, which can severely impair the production of sperm, and overexposure to toxins and chemicals, such as pesticides, tobacco smoke and alcohol. “For women,” says Dr. Hansard, “it’s often ovulation disorders, including the ovarian reserve—the quantity and quality of the woman’s eggs. Women are born with all of the eggs they are going to have. That amount reduces over time and cannot be increased.” Dr. Hansard says other problems for women include abnormalities in the uterus and obstruction of one or both fallopian tubes. “The last thing for women would be a process in the pelvis— like endometriosis—or pelvic adhesions, fibroid tumors—things that interfere with the egg/sperm interaction.” Treatment options For those couples who have received a diagnosis of infertility, there are options. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), treatment depends on Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

austinfamily.com | October 2014 | 33

calendar 10/14

family events halloween events in orange

CONTINUING: Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Lego Lab For various locations, dates and times, visit library.austintexas.gov/event/lego-lab-64560. Salamander Springs Exhibit 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center, 2201 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. austintexas.gov/splash or 512-481-1466. Visit with a Park Ranger 10:15 a.m. Terrazas Branch, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez, library.austintexas.gov/event/ visit-park-ranger or 512-974-3625. Community Nights 5 to 8 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Admission is by donation, suggested $1. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Wednesday Night Contra Dancing 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Everyone welcome. Hancock Recreation Center, 811 E. 41st St. FREE. austinbarndancers.org or 512-453-4225.

Gem Capers 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd. FREE for children ages 12 and under, $1 for children ages 13 to 18, $5 for adults. gemcapers.com. Chalk Walk 1 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. on Saturday, Centennial Park, Round Rock. FREE. roundrockarts.org. Courthouse Tours 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Fridays; 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays. Meet at Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave. to tour Williamson County Courthouse. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512-943-1670. Chess Club 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. 12 years and older. Faulk Central Library Branch, 800 Guadalupe St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. First Fridays on the Square 5 to 10 p.m. Historic Downtown square. thegeorgetownsquare.com or 512-868-8675. Movies in the Park—Saving Mr. Banks 7:30 p.m. Robin Bledsoe Park, Leander. FREE. leandertx.gov. Movie in the Park—Cloudy with Chance of Meatballs 2 7:45 p.m. 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5500. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Lego Lab see Wednesday 1; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Wednesday 1

October 3 and 4 Chalk Walk

Centennial Park, Round Rock

October 7-12 Beauty and the Beast Bass Concert Hall

Thursday 2

October 18 Texas Teen Book Festival St. Edwards University

October 25 Día de los Muertos Festival Pan American Rec Center

family events page 34 parenting events page 38 storytimes page 39 exhibits: visit www.austinfamily.com 34 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

COMPILED BY BETTY KEMPER

Literature LIVE! Presents: Not So Scary Stories For various locations, dates and times, visit library.austintexas.gov/event/literature-live-presents-not-so-scary-stories-64733. First Thursday Austin All day to 10 p.m. South Congress Ave. from Barton Springs Rd. to Elizabeth St. firstthursday.info. Thursday Noon Concerts 12 p.m. concert; 12:30 p.m. lunch. Central Presbyterian Church, 200 E. Eighth St. Concert. FREE. Lunch suggested donation: children 3 and younger $3; adults $5. cpcaustin.org or 512-472-2445. First Thursdays Buda 5 to 9 p.m. Downtown Buda. FREE. budachamber.com. Starry Night at Girlstart 5:30 to 7 p.m. 1400 W Anderson Lane, FREE. girlstart.org or email sharlym@girlstart.org. The King and I 7:30 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Zach Theatre, 1510 Toomey Rd. zachtheatre.org or 512-476-0541.

Friday 3

Saturday 4

Madrone Canyon Trail Hike 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, Madrone Canyon entrance at library parking lot, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Pflugerville Pfestival and Expo 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hawaiian Falls Adventure Park, 18500 N. SH 130. FREE. pfchamber.com. Sugar Skull Making 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Culture Center, 600 River St. FREE. maccaustin.org Austin Scale Modeler’s Society 2014 Capitol Classic 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Norris Conference Center, 2525 W. Anderson Ln., FREE. austinsms.org.

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 10th 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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Giant Chess 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe St. FREE. giantchess.org. Family Movie Matinee—Beetlejuice 2 p.m. Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminister Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9840. Saturday Night Concert Series 7 to 9 p.m., Hill Country Galleria Mall, Outdoor Ampitheatre, FREE. hillcountrygalleria.com or 512-263-0001. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3; Chalk Walk see Friday 3; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; Gem Capers see Friday 3.

Sunday 5

Free First Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. Bullock State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave. FREE. thestoryoftexas.com or 512-936-8746. Bunnicula 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W. 18th St. $8 for kids 12 and under, $12 for adults. scottishritetheater.org. Sunday Fundays: Pomanders 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St. FREE. nchmuseum.org. Pioneer Days with Living History Demonstrations 1 to 4 p.m. Heritage House Museum, 901-C Old Austin Hutto Rd., Pflugerville. Fairly Silly Fairy Tales 2 p.m. Hide Out Theatre, 617 Congress Ave., $5. hideouttheatre.com oer 512-443-3688. Family Dance Workshop—Glow in the Dark! 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. Ballet Austin’s Austin Ventures Studio Theater, 501 W. 3rd St. $10 per person. balletaustin.org/education/family_dance.php. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; Gem Capers see Friday 3.

Monday 6

CHILD HEALTH DAY

Tuesday 7

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Saturday; 1 p.m. Sunday; Bass Concert Hall, 2300 Robert Dedman. 512-477-6060 or beautyandthebeastontour.com. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Lego Lab see Thursday 1, Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Wednesday 8

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY CONTINUED: The King and I see Wednes-

day 1; Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1; Chess Club see Wednesday 1; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast see Tuesday 7; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Thursday 9

FIRE PREVENTION DAY CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 1; Lego Lab see Thursday 1; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast see Tuesday 7; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Friday 10

A Year with Frog and Toad 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays, 2 and 4:30 p.m. Sundays, Zach Theatre Kleberg Stage, 1510 Toomey Rd., zachtheatre.org or 512-476-0541. Halloween: Haunted Tails 7 to 10 p.m. Jordan Bachman Pioneer Farm, 10621 Pioneer Farm Dr., $12, pioneerfarms.org. Fall Festival 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Steiner Ranch School, 4308 N. Quinlan Park Rd. FREE. childrenscenterofaustin.com. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Lego Lab see Wednesday 1; Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast see Tuesday 7; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Saturday 11

Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead For various locations, dates and times visit library.austintexas.gov/event/dia-de-losmuertosday-dead-64669. Texas Renaissance Festival Check website for times and events. 21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission. $6 to $27, texrenfest.com or 800-458-3435. Bright Leaf Hikes 9 to 11:30 a.m. Bright Leaf Preserve, Creek Mountain Rd. brightleaf.org or 512-459-7269. Good Life Family Fair 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bull Branch Park, Taylor. taylortx.gov. Gardenscape “FUN”damentals 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Blanco High School Ag Bldg., 1215 Fourth St., Blanco. FREE. txmg.org/blanco/calendar. Pine Street Market Days 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Historic downtown Bastrop at Main and Pine Streets. bastroptexas.net/around_bastrop/events or 512-303-6233. Mother-Son Adventure Day 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. San Marcos Nature Center, 430 Riverside Dr. $5 per family. sanmarcostx.gov.

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Hands on History 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All ages. Williamson Museum, 716 South Austin Ave. FREE for children of all ages. williamsonmuseum.org or 512-943-1670. Second Saturday Market Days and Concert 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Downtown Square, Georgetown. FREE. visit.georgetown.org. Pumpkin Festival 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Elgin CHRISTmas Tree Farm, 120 Natures Way off Hwy 290, Elgin. $8 for adults, $6 for children two to 12. 512-281-5016. Sacred Springs Pow-wow 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Meadows Center Glass-Bottom Boat Tours, 951 Aquarena Springs Dr., San Marcos. FREE. indigenouscultures.org. Second Saturdays are for Families 12 to 4 p.m. All ages welcome. Laguna Gloria, 3809 West 35th St. $10 per family; $5 for member families. thecontemporaryaustin.org or 512-495-9224. Creative Kids: Preschool Science 2 to 3:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Saturday Night Concert Series see Saturday 4; Free Courthouse Tours see

Friday 3; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast see Tuesday 7; A Year with Frog and Toad see Friday 9; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; Bunnicula see Sunday 5; CONTINUED: Halloween: Haunted Trails see Friday 10.

Wednesday 15

Sunday 12

CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Fairly Silly Fairy Tales see Sunday 5; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast see Tuesday 7; A Year with Frog and Toad see Friday 9; Pumpkin Festival see Saturday 11; Texas Renaissance Festival see Saturday 11; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; Bunnicula see Sunday 5.

Monday 13

Elgin CHRISTmas Tree Farm Open House 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 120 Natures Way off Hwy 290, Elgin, 512-281-5016. Create Your Own Pioneer Games 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Bob Bullock History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. Free with museum admission. Limited space; call for reservation. 512-936-4649 or thestoryoftexas.org CONTINUED: Lego Lab see Wednesday 1.

Tuesday 14

St., FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Lego Lab see Wednesday 1; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Family Movie Night—Muppets Most Wanted 6:30 p.m. Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth

Family Movie Night—Casper 6 p.m. University Hills Branch, FREE. library. austintexas.gov or 512-974-9940. Dinner and a Movie—Ratatouille 7:30 p.m. Main St. Plaza, 221 E. Main St., Round Rock. FREE. roundrocktexas.gov. CONTINUED: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1; Chess Club see Wednesday 1; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Thursday 16

Visit with a Park Ranger 10:15 a.m. Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove Blvd., FREE. library.austintexas.gov/event/visitpark-ranger or 512-974-7500. Prevent Bullying: Be Confident and Determined! 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Bush Presidential Library, College Station. FREE. bushlibrary.tamu.edu. Third Thursday at the Blanton 12 to 8 p.m. Blanton Museum, Congress Ave. and Martin L. King Blvd. Admission and programs are FREE. blantonmuseum.org or 512-471-5482. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 2; Lego Lab see Thursday 1; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1.

Friday 17

11th Annual Fall Festival 4:30 to 8 p.m. Whitestone Elementary, 2000 Crystal Falls Pkwy, Leander. FREE. whitestone.my-pta.org. Fall Festival 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Jester School, 6507 Jester Blvd. FREE. childrenscenterofaustin.com. Movies in the Park—Frozen 7:30 p.m. Robin Bledsoe Park, 601 S. Bagdad St., Leander. FREE. leandertx.gov. CONTINUING: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; CONTINUED: Halloween: Haunted Trails see Friday 10..

Saturday 18

Hutto Olde Tyme Days Downtown Hutto, huttooldetymedays.com. Texas Teen Book Festival All day. St. Edwards University, 3001 S. Congress Ave. FREE. texasteenbookfestival.org.

36 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Octoberfest 11 am to 6 p.m. 507 E. 10th St. germantexans.org/festivals. Pfall Chili Pfest 12 to 7 p.m. Downtown Pflugerville. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6113. Austin Celtic Festival 12 to 7:30 p.m. Fiesta Gardens, 2102 Jesse E. Segovia St. FREE for children 13 and under, $12 for adults. austincelticfestival.com. Viva la Vida/Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival 12 to 9 p.m. 6th St. to 4th and Congress. FREE. mexic-artemuseum.org. Cedar Park Fall Festival 12 to 9 p.m. YMCA Camp Twin Lakes, 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park. $8 before October 18, $10 at gate. ymcagwc.org. Great Goblin Glow 7 to 9 p.m. Lakeway City Park, 502 Hurst Creek Rd. FREE. tx-lakeway2.civicplus.com. CONTINUED: The King and I see Wednesday 1; Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3; Saturday Night Concert Series see Saturday 4; A Year with Frog and Toad see Friday 9; Texas Renaissance Festival see Saturday 11; Pumpkin Festival see Saturday 11; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; CONTINUED: Halloween: Haunted Trails see Friday 10.

Sunday 19

NATIONAL MAMMOGRAM DAY Annual Buddy Walk 12 to 4 p.m. Reunion Ranch, Georgetown. dsact.com. CONTINUING: Fairly Silly Fairy Tales see Sunday 5; Pumpkin Festival see Saturday 18; A Year with Frog and Toad see Friday 9; Texas Renaissance Festival see Saturday 11th; Salamander Springs Exhibit see Wednesday 1; Austin Celtic Festival see Saturday 18; Bunnicula see Sunday 5.

Tuesday 21

Creative Crafters 5:30 p.m. Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove St., FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500. Teen Craft Night 5:30 p.m. Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove St., FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500. CONTINUING: Lego Lab see Wednesday 1.

Wednesday 22

CONTINUED: Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1; Chess Club see Wednesday 1; Lego Lab see Wednesday 1.

Thursday 23

Humorous Family Poet 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Bush Presidential Library, College Station. FREE. bushlibrary.tamu.edu.

Visit with a Park Ranger 11 a.m. Yarborough Branch, 2200 Hancock Dr., FREE. library.austintexas.gov/event/ visit-park-ranger or 512-974-8820. 20th Annual Hayride 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Georgetown Community Center, 445 E. Morrow St. $1 for children under 5, $2 for children 5 and up and adults. events.georgetown.org. CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 2; Lego Lab see Wednesday 1.

Friday 24

UNITED NATIONS DAY Teen Craft Night 4 p.m. Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St., FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980. Spooktacular 6 to 9 p.m. Bob Bullock History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. thestoryoftexas.com. Fall Festival 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Westlake School, 8100 Bee Caves Rd. FREE. childrenscenterofaustin.com. Halloween Trick or Treat Path and Carnival 6:30 to 8: 30 p.m. All ages. Northwest Recreation Center, 2913 Northland Dr. FREE. austintexas.gov. CONTINUING: Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3; CONTINUED: Halloween: Haunted Trails see Friday 10.

Saturday 25

Travis County History Day Hall of Government, first floor, 700 Lavaca St. traviscountyhistory.org. Market Days 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Memorial Park, 199 E. Main St., Johnson City. FREE. johnsoncity-texas.com. Barktoberfest Festival 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Champion Park, Brushy Creek Rd., Cedar Park. FREE. centraltexasspca.org. 27th Annual Hog Eye Festival 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Downtown Elgin. elgintx.com/hogeye or 512-281-5724. Texas Book Festival 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Texas State Capitol and surrounding grounds, FREE. texasbookfestival.org. Harry the Dirty Dog 12 p.m. One World Theatre, 7701 Bee Caves Rd., $15 and $20. oneworld.org. Día de los Muertos Festival 12 to 11 p.m. Pan American Rec Center, 2100 E. 3rd St. FREE for children 12 and under, $15 all others in advance, $20 at door. austindiadelosmuertos.com. Monthly Movie Mania—Monsters, Inc. 2 p.m. Milwood Branch, 12500 Amherst Dr., FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9880.

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Halloween at the YMCA at Dell Diamond 2 to 9 p.m. Dell Diamond, Hwy 79, Round Rock. $6. ymcagwc.org or 512-246-9622. Halloween Trick or Treat Event 2 to 9 p.m. Hill Country Galleria Mall, Hwy 71. hillcountrygalleria.com or 512-263-0001. Boo-Da Halloween 5 to 7 p.m. Downtown Buda, FREE. ci.buda.tx.us. Farmer Fred’s Harvest Fall Carnival 6 to 9 p.m. San Marcos City Park, 170 Charles Austin Dr. FREE. sanmarcostx.gov. CONTINUING: Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3; Saturday Night Concert Series see Saturday 4; A Year with Frog and Toad see Friday 9; Texas Renaissance Festival see Saturday 11; CONTINUED: Halloween: Haunted Trails see Friday 10.

Sunday 26

MOTHER-IN-LAW DAY Cathedral School of Saint Mary Fall Festival 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cathedral School of Saint Mary, 910 San Jacinto, FREE. smcschoolaustin.org. 26th Annual Lone Star Vegetarian Chili CookOff 12 to 6 p.m. Old Settlers Park, 3300 Palm Valley Rd., Round Rock. $10. veggiechilicookoff.com.

CONTINUING: Fairly Silly Fairy Tales see Sunday 5; A Year with Frog and Toad see Friday 9; Texas Renaissance Festival see Saturday 11; Texas Book Festival see Saturday 25; Market Days see Saturday 25.

Tuesday 28

Trailer Food Tuesdays 5 to 9 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. thelongcenter.org.

Wednesday 29

CONTINUED: Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1; Chess Club see Wednesday 1.

Thursday 30

CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 1.

Friday 31

HALLOWEEN Round Rock Fall Fun Festival 9 to 11:30 a.m. Old Settlers Park, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd. Bring canned item for Round Rock Serving Center. roundrocktexas.gov. 14th Annual Safe Trick or Treat Trail 6 to 8 p.m. Veterans Memorial Park and Downtown Elgin. FREE. elgintx.com or 512-281-5724.

CONTINUED: Free Courthouse Tours see Friday 3.

parenting events Mondays

Clases de Crianza con Cariño en Español 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Every Monday. Any Baby Can, 1121 East Seventh St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743.

Tuesdays

English Parenting Classes and Clases de Crianza con Cariño en Español 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Any Baby Can, 1121 East Seventh St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743.

Thursdays

English Parenting Classes and Clases de Crianza con Cariño en Español 9 to 11 a.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Every Thursday. Any Baby Can, 1121 East Seventh St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743. Postpartum Support Group 10 to 11:30 a.m. Every Thursday. Any Baby Can, 1121 East Seventh St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743.

Saturdays

English Parenting Classes and Clases de Crianza con Cariño en Español 3 to 5 p.m. Every Saturday. Any Baby Can, 1121 East Seventh St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743.

Thursday 2

Austin Autism Treatment Forum-Meetup 12 to 1:30 p.m. Old Quarry Library, 7051 Village Center Dr. FREE and open to the public. meetup.com or 512-300-3820.

Tuesday 7

La Leche League Held at multiple locations in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Kyle, San Marcos and 38 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Cedar Park. For locations and times visit texaslll.org or 512-272-8042. Little Texas Homeschoolers 10:30 a.m. Large meeting room, Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Calm and Confident Birthing, Week 1 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org. Promoting Toddler Independence 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. $10. georgetownproject.org.

Wednesday 8

Open House - St. Francis School 9 a.m. 300 E. Huntland Dr., stfrancis.org

Thursday 9

Teaching Social Skills through Play, ages 4-8 7 to 9 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. $15. georgetownproject.org.

University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org.

Tuesday 14

Wednesday 29

Calm and Confident Birthing, Week 2 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org. Separation and Attachment 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. $15. georgetownproject.org.

Basic Parenting of Infants and Toddlers 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org. Family Support Group 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org.

Wednesday 15

storytimes

Learning through Play 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org.

Tuesday 21

Calm and Confident Birthing, Week 3 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org.

Wednesday 22

Understanding Your Babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Communication 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownproject.org.

Thursday 23

Asperger/Autism: Understanding from the Inside Out 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. $15. georgetownproject.org.

Tuesday 28

Calm and Confident Birthing, Week 1 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bridges to Growth, 805 W.

Public library storytime events listed here are free unless otherwise noted. Programs subject to change. Please contact before attending.

Sundays

Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400.

Mondays

NOTE: Austin Public Libraries closed on Monday October 13. Thinkery closed October 20 and 27. Dual Language Storytime-Hora de cuentos en dos idiomas Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Musical Storytime with Mr. Mike 9:30 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 years. Leander Public continued on page 40

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Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Baby Time 10 a.m. Ages 3 to 18 months. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. Infant Storytime 10:30 a.m. Birth to 1 year. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Preschool Storytime 10:30 p.m. Ages 3 to 5 years. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Bookaneers 10:30 a.m. Ages 4 to 6 years. Lake Travis Community Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Bookworms 10:30 a.m. Ages 0 to 18 months. 11:15 a.m. 12 to 24 months. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Bilingual Storytime 11:00 a.m. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. Storytime at the Story Nook 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Thinkery, 1830

Simond Ave. Included in museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. All Ages Storytime 12:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Evening Storytime at the Library 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

Tuesdays

Toddler and Preschool Storytimes Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Spanish and Dual Language StorytimesCuentos en Español y hora de cuentos en dos idiomas Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Baby and Me 9:30 a.m. Ages 24 months and under with parent. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Baby and Me Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 0 to 12 months. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Storytime 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Pflugerville Public

Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. Preschool Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 years. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Little Texas Homeschoolers 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Tales for Tots 10:30 a.m. Toddlers ages 2 and 3 years. Lake Travis Community Library. 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Reading Dog R.E.A.D. Program 11 a.m. Pre-readers and readers welcome. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Storytime at the Story Nook 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included in museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Afternoon Storytime 3:30 p.m. All ages, bring the family. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Afternoon Storytime 4 p.m. All ages, bring the family. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Storytime and Craft 6 and 7 p.m. Families with kids of all ages. Tickets required. Limit of 24 kids per class. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Pajama Storytime 7 p.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9920. Pajama Storytime 7 p.m. Manchaca Rd. Branch, 5500 Manchaca Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700.

Wednesdays

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Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Babytime 9:30 to 10 a.m. 12 to 18 months. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Toddler Time 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. 3 years and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Pre-K Storytime 10 to 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Preschool Storytime 10:30 a.m. 3 years and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Tot Time Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 3 years. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Tot Time Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 3 years. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Book Babies 10:30 a.m. 3 to 24 months. Lake Travis Community Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Story Pals Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 years and older. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Storytime at the Story Nook 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included in museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Storytime with Mr. George 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 14010 US Hwy 183. barnesandnoble.com or 512-249-5644. Afternoon Storytime 4 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Caves Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Arts and Crafts 6 p.m. 8 years and older with adult. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.

Thursdays

Spanish and Dual Language Storytimes— Cuentos en Español y hora de cuentos en dos idiomas Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Wobbles Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 2 years. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Babytime 9:30 a.m. 12 to 18 months. Round Rock

Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Infant Storytime 10:30 a.m. Birth to 1 year. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Spanish Storytime 10:30 a.m. All ages. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Preschool Storytime 10:30 a.m. 3 years and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7012. Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. 18 months to 3 years. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Story Pals Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 years and older. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library. georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Storytime at the Story Nook 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included in museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Story Crafternoon 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Grades K to 5. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.

Fridays

Dual Language Storytime-Hora de cuentos en dos idiomas Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Toddler and Preschool Storytimes Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. cityofaustin.org/library or 512-974-7400. Baby and Me 9:30 a.m. Children 24 months and younger with their parents. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Community Storytime 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Babytime 9:30 a.m. 12 to 18 months. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Story Time 10 a.m. All ages. Lake Travis Library, 2300 continued on page 42

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continued from page 41

Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Briarcliff Storytime 10 a.m. All ages. Briarcliff Community Center, 22801 Briarcliff Dr. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Toddler Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 18 to 36 months. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. 18 months to 3 years. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Children’s Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 0 to 5 years. Georgetown Public Library, 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3551. Storytime at the Story Nook 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included in museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Preschool Storytime 11:15 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 years. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. All Ages Storytime 12:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave

Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045.

Saturdays

Dual Language Storytime-Hora de cuentos en dos idiomas Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Baby Bloomers 9 to 10 a.m. Ages 0 to 3 and their caregivers. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included with museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200.

Family Storytime 11 a.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Storytime at the Story Nook 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included in museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Story Time 11 a.m. All ages. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. READ to Dogs 12 to 2 p.m. Georgetown Library, 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-931-7716.

Thursday 2

Children’s Story Time 10 to 10:30 a.m. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos. frenchlegationmuseum.org or 512-472-8180. Chinese Bilingual Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 and up. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main, Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279.

Monday 6

StorySign Storytime 10:15 a.m. Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St., library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980.

Monday 6 and 13 Baby Bloomers

42 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Ages 0 to 3 and their caregivers. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Included with museum admission. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200.

Monday 6, 13 and 20

Evening Storytime 6:30 to 7 p.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

Tuesday 7

Chinese Bilingual Storytime 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library.

Tuesday 14

Spanish Bilingual Storytime 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library.

Tuesday 21

American Sign Language Bilingual Storytime 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library.

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44 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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PIENSAPOSITIVO Liderazgo A un auténtico líder se le reconoce por su humildad; de lo contrario, el líder no tendría seguidores. Es muy común escuchar que describan algunas personas con la frase “ya se le subió”. Esto se debe a que el sentimiento de soberbia de la persona es más fuerte que la razón. Si te consideras un líder en tu familia, trabajo o comunidad, toma en cuenta que los frutos de tu liderazgo son gracias a tu gente. Piensa Positivo.

Leadership A genuine leader is recognized for his or her humility; otherwise, the leader would have no followers. It is common to hear a person described as “full of himself/herself.” This is because that person’s feeling of power was stronger than reason. If you consider yourself to be a leader in your family, work or community, understand that the fruits of your leadership come from your people. Think Positive.

by Leslie Montoya

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46 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Ki d one Z Make a Pointillist painting Pointillism is a technique of painting developed by artist Georges Seurat. It uses distinct dots in order to create patterns or designs. Pointillism paintings are composed of different colored dots that, when viewed as a whole canvas, form a pattern or picture. Supplies: * Paper * Paper towels (or tray if you have one) * Paint

• Cotton swabs • Pencil • Masking tape

Steps: 1. Tape a piece of paper onto a flat surface. Using a pencil, lightly sketch out your design or portrait. 2. On a paper plate or tray, set out a reasonable amount of different colors of paint from which to dab. 3. Dip a cotton swab into the paint and dot along your sketch. Make sure to use single dots rather than drag the swab along the paper. Use a new swab for each paint color. 4. Continue adding as many colors as desired to the painting, and make sure there is no white space within the design. 5. Once you’ve completed the painting and allowed it to dry, view it from a distance (maybe a few feet). What do you see? It’s a fact! Pointillism actually relies on a trick of the eye. From afar, the painting can look like an average piece of work, but if you get closer to it, you can actually see the different colored dots. Many artists, like Vincent van Gogh, used Seurat’s method of pointillism in their paintings. When they are side by side, the tiny dots of pure color give the viewer’s eye a chance to blend the color optically. Inkjet printers also use this technique, but the dots are very tiny. These dots are not even visible to the unaided eye, but you can see them under a magnifying glass.

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book recommendations by Pam Heller

For Younger Readers What Do You Do With An Idea? by Kobi Yamada Some of the best ideas never come to fruition due to the fear that it can’t be done, it won’t work, no one will like it, etc. This little book with endearing illustrations teaches readers to believe in their ideas, nurture their ideas and see where they lead. And who knows? Your idea may just change the world. This is a lesson to be learned and practiced throughout our lives. How wonderful for a book to present the concept to such a young audience. Ages 3 – 6 and as a reminder for those who are older.

For Older Readers

Absolutely Almost by Lisa Graff Albie is a fifth grader with learning difficulties living with his parents and grandfather. He is going to be attending a new school and experiences the common fears. Albie tries his best to do well but has difficulty and ends up being teased and bullied. Although well-intentioned, his parents don’t appreciate his efforts or offer the loving support he needs. Things change for Albie when he gets a new sitter, Calista, who takes him to art exhibits and accepts him for who he is. With Calista’s help, Albie survives the emotional turmoil of middle school and evolves from a teased victim to an adolescent with a sense of self-worth. Struggling readers will appreciate the pace of the self-contained chapters and the sympathetic storyline. Ages 8 – 12.

48 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Focus On Doctors

CareSpot Urgent Care CareSpot has five locations in Austin, Round Rock and Cedar Park, each open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Services include treatment for flu, infections, sprains, cuts and burns including x-rays, lab testing and physicals. Visit www. carespot.com for an appointment. In-Network with major insurance plans and affordable self-pay rates. See ad on page 45

Dr. Linda Lopez

ADC Steiner Ranch 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 preventive, developmental and general pediatrics. See ad on page 11

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 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital. Dr. Willisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 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 11

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Smart Screen Time If your kids are like mine, they’re coming home from school and asking for TV, computer or tablet time. In a way, they’re continuing a long-standing cultural thread; I, too, came home from elementary school and flipped on the TV, often watching the afternoon soaps with my mom as an after-school break before turning to homework or play. But there are some important distinctions that we can make between the practices of our youth and what kids experience today. First, there are many, many more options for viewing, to the point that we really can’t call it TV any more; televisions play but one part in a multitude of screenbased activities. In fact, many kids—just like adults—are moving seamlessly from one device to another, or using several screens simultaneously. Within the abundance of devices, there is a dizzying amount of choice of programs and games. This proliferation of digital devices and digital media is leading to a significant increase in kids’ overall screen time, making it more difficult for adults to monitor their kids’ screen practices (especially when they’re occupied with several screens of their own!). As the primary provider of digital educational media in Central Texas, KLRU-TV Austin PBS believes that there is both tremendous hope and opportunity within our screen abundance. We have a set of guidelines called Smart Screen Time™/ La Pantalla Inteligente™ that guides families in conversations that ultimately put children in the role of monitoring their own screen practices. The first guideline asks all of us to “strike a balance between smart and silly.” Kids know from a very young age when they are watching or playing something that is pure entertainment and when they are watching or playing something that challenges their thinking. They also know when we adults are viewing or playing smart or silly content. We invite families to engage in conversations that will list favorite smart and silly content, and make some decisions on the balance of both in their lives. Over the past year, in doing our Smart Screen Time™ workshops, we’ve seen all kinds of arrangements: a 50/50 balance, “silly” only on Fridays or weekends, one “silly” per day and the list goes on. Whatever the outcome, we know that what may be previously unmentioned—or fought over—has been brought to light and discussed in a way that causes the entire family to consider their screen practices. Benjamin Kramer, Ph.D., is the director of education for KLRU-TV, Austin PBS. 50 | October 2014 | austinfamily.com

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films by Jack Kyser

Now in theaters and opening soon Tracks

(Opened September 19, Rated PG-13) Tracks, which received rave reviews at last year’s Toronto and Venice International Film Festivals, is only now receiving a theatrical release in the United States from The Weinstein Company. Based on a true story, the film stars Mia Wasikowska as Robyn Davidson, who in 1977 traveled nearly two thousand miles across the Australian desert with only a few camels and her dog. Director John Curran (who made the very underrated Stone and The Painted Veil) vividly brings her story to life in this new film.

The Book of Life

(Opening October 17, Rated PG) Opening just before Halloween, The Book of Life is the new animated picture from Twentieth Century Fox Animation. Produced by Guillermo del Toro and directed by Jorge R. Gutierrez, the film follows Manolo (Diego Luna) as he ventures through three worlds heavily influenced by the imagery of Día de los Muertos. The movie looks like a blast.

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St. Vincent

(Opening October 24, Rated PG-13) Any movie with Bill Murray in the lead role is cause for celebration, and in St. Vincent he plays St. Vincent de Van Nuys, who becomes a kind of mentor figure for a young boy who moves in next door (while his mother, played by Melissa McCarthy, works days). With a supporting cast including Naomi Watts, Terrence Howard and Chris O’Dowd, there’s no reason to think St. Vincent couldn’t be Murray’s strongest lead role since his masterful performance in Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation (2003).

Interstellar

(Opening November 7, Not yet rated) Christopher Nolan’s original new film Interstellar concerns space travel, and stars Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine, Casey Affleck, Ellen Burstyn and John Lithgow. Nolan is one of the few filmmakers, along with Wes Anderson and a handful of others, who can still get original material greenlit in today’s franchise-driven movie marketplace, so let’s all see Interstellar—not simply because it’s sure to astonish, but because we’ll also be encouraging more original concept, big-budget entertainment. Where was everyone for Edge of Tomorrow?

Jack Kyser, a graduate of Austin High School, is currently attending and writing for New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

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humor

School of rock

by Susana Fletcher

The other day, my friend Lynn asked my child what her favorite Beatles song was, and my nine-year-old came back with, “Huh?” ParentFAIL. When I was a kid, my folks schooled me and my siblings in the ways of iconic folk, rock-n-roll and Motown legends. They gave us a gift of music love that I treasure today as I sing along with Dylan or Carole King in Starbucks and The Rolling Stones or Otis Redding in my car. It’s a passion I’m trying to pass down to my kids. As for the gaping hole that I had inadvertently left in music history (John, Paul, George and Ringo), what could I do? I hooked up my iPhone to the living room speakers, and sat down my three precious offspring for some important life lessons.

teaching moments are just part of my innate parental duties, and I take my duties very seriously. Likewise, when my kids began to receive hand-me-downs from my sister’s children in the form of AC/DC band t-shirts, I knew what I had to do. (Side note: My sister has four kids whose first initials are A, C, D and C. She and her husband bought tons of AC/ DC t-shirts. What choice did they have? Plus, those little rocker kids looked pretty awesome.) Well, since hand-me-downs from older cousins are basically exactly the same thing as Christmas morning, my kids asked to wear the shirts immediately. “Whoa. Not yet guys.” “Why?!?” “Rock school, session #127: AC/DC.”

Rock school, session #64: The Beatles.

“Mommm, please, no!”

My kids roll their eyes and take my “lessons” in stride as I belt out every word to every song from Cake’s Fashion Nugget album or explain to them how amazing Michael Jackson really was in our time. I know that these

You bet your sweet devil horns I made those kids memorize the hooks to three AC/DC songs. Minimum. If you’re gonna wear the shirt, your little ten-year-old self had better be able back it up with the lyrics to “Highway to You Know What.”

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Susana Fletcher is a mother of three, writer and blogger and she remembers when Spotify used to be called Napster.

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