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inside 1/15
austinfamily
®
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smart parenting • healthy homes
12
18
columns
calendar
14 Family Matters Resolve to Choose Happiness This Year
48 49 49 50
20 The Learning Curve Mentors Help Students Develop Social, Academic Skills 24 Family Connections Apps Can Prop up Your Resolutions 28 Lifelines Find Just the Right Doctor for Your Little One 49 Ten Things…That Can Make You Sick! 55 Films Mockingjay – Part One 56 Humor New Year, New Me!
30 features
Family Events Parenting Events Open House Events Storytimes
in every issue 7 8 46
Play It Safe Product Recalls Around Austin Kidzone by YMCA January Crafts
Fitness Is a State of Being Get Motivated With Fitness Expert Joanne Blackerby
18
Start the New Year With an Emergency Fund
30
Support Your Child’s New Year’s Resolutions
artículos en español
extras 15 26 27 32 47 52
12
2015 Cover Kids Winners Education Guide 2015 Austin Family Summer Camp Fair Summer Camp Guide 2015 Focus on Doctors Smart Screen Time
16 Que Su Propósito de Este Año Nuevo Sea Elegir Felicidad 22 Los Mentores Ayudan a los Estudiantes a Desarrollar Habilidades Sociales y Académicas 53 Piensa Positivo Amabilidad
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Jäger looks forward to 2015 and says he has a few resolutions to make. 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
January 2015 Well, you don’t need me to tell you that the calendar has flipped the page on a brand new 2015. I hope you rang in the New Year in a manner that suits you, whether you stayed home for an understated observance or ventured out for a boisterous bash. Now that the confetti has settled and the noisemakers are silent (I hope), it’s time to tackle that other New Year ritual: resolutions. Do you make them? I tend to make at least one, but I don’t always follow through as the year progresses. I should pay attention to our writers this month, who have plenty to say on the subject. Betty Richardson encourages you to just relax and make happiness your priority. Richard Singleton wants to be sure you get technological assistance in keeping any resolutions you happen to make. Aaron Crowe offers advice for stashing away an emergency fund. Lance Haverda has suggestions for guiding children in resolution-making, and Carrie Taylor takes a humorous look at the whole business. If getting healthy is a priority for you this year, then turn to my interview with Joanne Blackerby, a personal trainer and owner of Spirit Fitness. This mother of three is full of supportive guidance and motivation to help you reach your goals. Or maybe you’re so over resolutions. I get that. Good for you for knowing what you want and need. No judgment here. Why don’t you settle in for a January of crafts with the YMCA or enjoy Jack Kyser’s review of the latest Hunger Games installment, Mockingjay - Part One. However you get there, I wish you a happy and prosperous New Year!
Volume 22, No. 10
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, Theresa Willis, Jennifer VanBuren, Dr. Betty Richardson, Richard Singleton, Carrie Taylor, Aaron Crowe and Lance Haverda TRANSLATION TEAM Maribel Ruvalcaba, Margo Vogelpohl, Pilar Korgel ART DIRECTOR John Franzetti jfranzetti@att.net AD DESIGN and PRODUCTION Jason Suarez nr2003@austinfamily.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Studio213.net ADVERTISING SALES Kaye K. Lowak kaye2003@austinfamily.com Greg Lowak greg@austinfamily.com BUSINESS & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Greg Lowak greg@austinfamily.com We are dedicated to serving the Greater Austin area by providing up-to-date information and ideas that promote smart parenting and healthy homes. We promote our clients’ businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images. Austin Family is published monthly by KKKemper Inc. Mail Address: P.O. Box 7559 Round Rock, Texas 78683-7559 Phone Number: (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 2015. 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 Happy Meal Toys and Strollers McDonald’s is recalling about 2.3 million Hello Kitty birthday lollipop whistles because the components inside of the whistle can detach, posing choking and aspirating hazards to young children. The recalled whistles are red and were included in a plastic Hello Kitty figurine holding a pink heartshaped lollipop. The whistle can be removed and used to make sounds by inhaling or exhaling through the mouthpiece. Affected units were distributed by McDonald’s restaurants nationwide from October 2014 through the first week of November 2014 with Happy Meals and Mighty Kids Meals. Consumers should immediately take the whistle away from children and return it to any McDonald’s for a free replacement toy and either a yogurt tube or a bag of apple slices. Graco is recalling about 4.7 million strollers because the folding hinge on the sides of the stroller can pinch a child’s finger, posing a laceration or amputation hazard. Graco has received 11 reports of finger injuries, including six reports of fingertip amputation, four reports of partialfingertip amputation and one finger laceration. The recall includes Graco and Century brand strollers with model names Aspen, Breeze, Capri, Cirrus, Glider, Kite, LiteRider, Sierra, Solara, Sterling and TravelMate. All models are a single-occupant stroller with an external sliding fold-lock hinge on each side and a one-hand fold release mechanism on the handle. Affected units were sold at Target, Toys R Us, Walmart and other retail stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com, Walmart.com and other online retailers from August 2000 through November 2014 for about $40 to $70 for the stroller and about $140 to $170 for the travel system. Consumers should contact Graco immediately for a free repair kit. While waiting for a repair kit, caregivers should exercise extreme care when unfolding the stroller to be certain that the hinges are firmly locked before placing a child in the stroller. Caregivers are advised to immediately remove the child from a stroller that begins to fold to keep their fingers from the side hinge area. 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.
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Around Austin Go to www.austinfamily.com for weekly updates of Around Austin news
Dogs Help Students Develop Reading Skills
Must-Do this month Go through your holiday decorations. Donate anything you didn’t use. Throw away the broken and worn-out stuff. Write thank you notes for holiday gifts. Maybe do it on January 23, which is Handwriting Day. Give blood. January is national Blood Donor Month.
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Students at three Round Rock ISD elementary schools are getting help from man’s best friend through the Austin Dog Alliance, which trains canines to help students who may need extra encouragement to improve reading and communication.
Carolyn Honish, a Live Oak Elementary School deaf education teacher, said reading dog Buzz adds valuable interaction into the classroom for students and adults. “The dog shows affection and is responsive to the kids, so it’s a huge motivational tool,” she said. “Buzz gives them a reason to want to communicate and work on language, which is one of the big goals in the program.” Reading dog Riley and his owner, Karen Parshall have been visiting Deep Wood, Great Oaks and Live Oak elementary schools at least once a week for three years, developing relationships with many of the students. Parshall said she has seen Riley improve student’s attitudes to the point that they check out special books for their reading dog appointments and actively work on improving their literacy.
City of Austin Announces Flood Safety Poster Contest
The City of Austin is kicking off its annual Flood Safety Poster Contest with the theme “Turn Around – Don’t Drown.” Kids age 6 to 13 are welcome to enter and have a chance to win prizes including: • Gift cards worth $25 to $100. • A ride on Lady Bird Lake in a swift water rescue boat with an emergency responder. • First place winners in each of the three categories will have their poster printed on a CapMetro bus. The city says its contest is an important way to educate students about the risk of flash flooding in Central Texas. Flooding is Austin’s top weather-related emergency, and approximately 75 percent of flood fatalities in Texas occur in vehicles. Deadline for entries is March 24. For full guidelines and entry instructions, visit austintexas.gov/FloodPosters.
Westlake High School Volleyball Coach Named Coach of the Year Amount of Americans who are able to keep their New Year’s resolutions beyond six months. Source: University of Scranton, Journal of Clinical Psychology
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In November, the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) named Al Bennett, head girls volleyball coach at Westlake High School, as the 2014 AVCA National High School Coach of the Year.
Bennett has coached the Westlake Chaparrals for 27 years. He has accumulated 911 career wins. This season, the Chaparrals won 42 matches and lost 5. They had a perfect 16-0 district record. The Chaparrals are currently ranked eighth in Texas and 25th nationally. View the magazine online at austinfamily.com
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March of Dimes Notes Improvement Trend in Texas Preterm Births
In November, the March of Dimes lauded a sevenyear improving trend in Texas’ preterm birth rate, which contributed to an improvement in the national rate. Texas’ preterm birth rate was 12.3 percent in 2013, down from 13.7 in 2006, the year the national rate peaked. “We’re proud of Texas’ long-term improvement,” said Nancy Sheppard, chair of the March of Dimes Program Services – Austin Division. “Their success is a testament to the hard work of the Texas state and local health departments, our hospital partners and health care providers. It shows that when a health problem, as complex as preterm birth, is challenged with strong policies and bold leadership, babies benefit.” The March of Dimes attributed the improved rates to an expansion of successful programs and interventions. “We will continue to work together to improve access to health care, help women quit smoking and, through our Healthy Babies Are Worth the Wait consumer education campaign, encourage women and health care providers to avoid scheduling a delivery before 39 weeks of pregnancy unless medically necessary,” said Sheppard. For March of Dimes information by state and for the U.S., visit marchofdimes.org/reportcard.
Austin Receives New Daniel Johnston Mural
A new Daniel Johnston mural was unveiled December 1 at Nau’s Enfield Drug on West Lynn. The design, featuring a superhero and the inspirational message “Love is the question; Love is the answer,” is Johnston’s first mural in 20 years and a holiday gift to the city of Austin from GSD&M advertising agency. GSD&M said Superhero Kids, an organization that fights childhood cancer, would benefit from the sale of t-shirts featuring the mural and a social campaign running through December 31. “GSD&M, Daniel Johnston, Superhero Kids, and Nau’s came together to create something beautiful and lasting for our city,” said Austin Mayor Lee Leffingwell. “This mural represents the spirit of our community, and I’m proud to accept it on behalf of Austin.” Johnston, a local Austin artist and musician, is best known locally for his “Hi, How Are You?” mural on Guadalupe St. and a quirky musical style that embodies Austin’s ethos. “Daniel has always had a heart for Austin and for helping others—especially kids,” said Tom Gimbel, Johnston’s manager. “When he and his family heard about this opportunity to dedicate a new mural to Superhero Kids, they were all in.” continued on page 10
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continued from page 9
Texas Casa Receives Texas Bar Foundation Grant
Texas CASA announced in November that it has received a $15,000 grant from the Texas Bar Foundation. The award will be used to develop an expanded curriculum and online courses for new executive directors focused on the laws and policies that govern child advocacy and nonprofit organizations. Texas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is the state association of 71 local CASA programs that recruit and train volunteers to speak up in court and represent the best interests of children in the child protection system and ensure that they are guided to safe and permanent homes as quickly as possible. “We are proud to be able to again provide funds to Texas CASA, helping to advance training initiatives in the area of law and policy,” said Texas Bar Foundation Executive Director Andrea Stone. “By addressing these unmet needs, we are confident that executive directors will be able to better understand and navigate Texas’ child welfare system.”
CDC Predicts Severe Flu Season
In December, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that early data suggested the current 201415 flu season could be severe. The CDC urges immediate vaccination for anyone still unvaccinated this season and recommends prompt treatment with antiviral drugs for people at high risk of complications who develop flu.
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So far this year, seasonal influenza A H3N2 viruses have been most common. There often are more severe flu illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths during seasons when these viruses predominate. For example, H3N2 viruses were predominant during the 2012-13, 2007-08 and 2003-04 seasons, the three seasons with the highest mortality levels in the past decade. All were characterized as “moderately severe.” Increasing the risk of a severe flu season is the CDC finding that roughly half of the H3N2 viruses analyzed are “drift” variants: viruses with genetic changes that make them different from that season’s vaccine virus. This means the vaccine’s ability to protect against those viruses may be reduced, although vaccinated people may have a milder illness if they do become infected. “It’s too early to say for sure that this will be a severe flu season, but Americans should be prepared,” said CDC Director Tom Frieden. “We can save lives with a three-pronged effort to fight the flu: vaccination, prompt treatment for people at high risk of complications and preventive health measures, such as staying home when you’re sick, to reduce flu spread.” Depending on the formulation, flu vaccines protect against three or four different flu viruses. Even during a season when the vaccine is only partially protective against one flu virus, it can protect against the others.
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Fitness
Is a State of Being Joanne Blackerby started working in the fitness industry as an aerobics instructor to pick up a little extra spending money for college. That passion stayed with her over the years, as she undertook jobs, pursued a graduate degree in social work and raised three children. Today, she trains clients and mentors other trainers at her own space in north Austin, Spirit Fitness. She sat down with us to talk about her life and work and give us a jump start on a healthy new year. Her family. Chris and I have been married for 21 years. We have three kids: Caleb is 19, Tyler is 15 and Bennett is 10. What they do together. We like to hike around. We go to Pease Park; we walk the dogs. The goal is to get outside. I’m not a really big competitive sports mom. I’m happy that they’re doing it, but I refuse to feel guilty if I’m not there for games. I relieve myself of the pressure of having to attend extracurriculars. It’s okay for them to have those times with their dad.
by Sherida Mock
was the Personal Trainer to Watch 2012. I was selected out of over 1,000 global nominees. That has opened so many doors for me, in terms of giving me the motivation and the validation from my peers to continue moving fitness to a valuable and recognizable space in the healthcare continuum. New Year’s resolutions. It’s a good time to set a resolution, but it also becomes a thing. So my caveat is: is it really something that you want to change, and is it measurable and is it realistic? What’s the plan? Life is a journey, as is fitness. The idea that there would be a beginning and an ending is false to me. There is no ending in vitality and movement. You want to start the New Year healthy? Clean out your kitchen cabinets. Food is fuel. It’s enjoyable, but it’s just fuel. Break yourself—and children especially—from the idea that food is reward. Start small. Make it measurable. Start at home. So simple, right?
That big award in 2012. The award that shocked me most and spurred me to keep fighting a good fight in this industry
People who hate to exercise. I’m sorry, but there are certain things your body needs. Don’t you have to bathe? Don’t you have to brush your teeth? You have to move your body. You don’t have to be crazy; you have to get in more than 30 minutes of activity, more than 3 times a week. It doesn’t have to happen all at once. You could do five minutes in the morning, ten at lunchtime; it all adds up. You don’t know what you’re missing, if you’ve never tried a boxing class or you’ve never tried swimming because you’re afraid of what you look like in a suit or you don’t want to go run because your feet
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Her book, Training Effects. My book was my shout-out to my clients and the industry that I recognize what an honor it is to work with people’s bodies and their minds. People don’t come here just to sweat. I see people struggle, and it was my chance to say, “I’ve shared struggle, too, and thank you for humbling me with your trust.”
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hurt. Challenge yourself on that. These are the things I get: “I don’t have time.” You have to have time. It’s simply got to be a priority. “I don’t like to get sweaty.” Turn on a fan. Sweat is good for you. You can always take a shower later. “It’s too expensive.” You can do everything at home. “I’ve never been athletic.” Athleticism and exercise are not equal. Our society lies to us. I guarantee you that anyone who’s overweight is going to make themselves feel better because they can always find someone who’s bigger. Refuse to settle for that. You have six 5-minute slots in your day. The time is past for us to have excuses.
takes. People get excited and sign up for something big; well, that just becomes another thing to have to do. It doesn’t have to be this big thing; it’s an accumulation of little things. Just open your front door and go walk with your kids. Get them a jump rope. Bounce the ball with your kid. I’m terrible at basketball and football—and I certainly don’t love to do it—but I’ll get Bennett out there with me and say, “Show me how to do this.” Give
them a chance to show you skill. When you travel, pick active things. Or if you’ve got teenagers, they may not want to do something together. So tell them, “Go have an experience and come back and tell me about it.” People keep thinking of fitness as an activity, but it’s not; it’s a state of being, which directly reflects your health and your way of life. Choose experience, not a place where experience is defined for you.
What she’d do with those six slots. Every time I got a phone call, I would walk and talk. I’d take the stairs. I’d make myself park further from the door. I’d get up and stretch. I’d have resistance bands, and I’d be doing pull-ups and chest presses. There are some great apps for all levels. Max Capacity Training: the entire workout takes 16 minutes and requires no equipment. It’s a 12-week program. Do it with your kids. Good exercises for new moms. Number one, do Kiegels; get that pelvic floor back.
And even though you can’t feel your abs right away—and I’ve been there—just fake it. If you can’t feel the work, think of the work. New moms can be really hard on themselves. Remember that you spent 10 months doing the most beautiful thing; you gave up your body to be a vessel for a life. But stop using the baby as an excuse. Pregnancy is not a disease. Get out and get active. Instead of having mommy coffee dates, have a mommy workout date. Find the right support system. Don’t sit and wish together; move together. Starting a family fitness routine. Understand what minimal effort it Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 13
family matters by Dr. Betty Richardson
Q
Resolve to Choose Happiness This Year My fourth grade son Elijah’s class has been talking about New Year’s resolutions, so he brought it up at dinner last night. His sister Sienna got excited and immediately wanted us all to come up with resolutions. I fear that if we make resolutions, we’ll make little progress toward meeting them, and they will be soon forgotten. For the past ten years, my resolution has been to clean out my closets, without success. What resolutions do you think are important? Can kids make and keep New Year’s resolutions?
You ask what resolutions are important. The answer is probably resolutions that make life better for you and others around you. One resolution I suggest is focusing on happiness for yourself and doing whatever you reasonably can to help your family and friends to be happy, too. I see unhappy children and unhappy spouses in therapy. There are many other unhappy people who never make it in to therapy. What makes a family member unhappy? When someone perceives they are not being listened to, respected, treated fairly or given safe space to speak up, they complain of being unhappy – and often they look unhappy. Little is more important than feeling safe, loved and respected in your family. People clam up when
they perceive others will be critical of their perceptions and thoughts. Sigmund Freud said something that should guide us in interactions with others: “Choose your words wisely, because with them you can drive [another person] to the heights of ecstasy or the depths of despair.” Why not focus on the goal of happiness for yourself and your family and friends? This happy state in the family would in many cases be more important than organized closets – even though there is nothing wrong with tackling both closets and creating a happy life. Currently, I am reading “The Art of Happiness” by the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler, M.D. The Dalai Lama wrote, “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion and if you want yourself to be happy, practice compassion.” He goes on to say, “Researchers on human happiness identify compassionate service to others as one of the key characteristics shared by many of the world’s happiest people.” Compassion for your family and friends will result in a happier family. A mother once told me that she thinks “happiness is overrated.” I respectfully disagree; I believe feeling happy is something we can accomplish if we work on it, and it sure beats unhappiness. You asked if children can make and keep resolutions. Yes they can, and you can help them do it. Your children may want to have the same resolution as yours, or they may want something different. You can talk about resolutions in the car, at the table and/or before bedtime. It will help to write down each family member’s resolutions and set daily or weekly reviews of progress. The more benefits you see coming from your resolution, the more apt you are to carry it out, and that goes for your children, too. For example, a child may resolve to practice the tuba even if he doesn’t want to; he does it because he likes the praise he receives as he gets better or he likes knowing he is playing better. Or maybe it keeps him in the band with his friends, who also play instruments. Good luck with your resolutions. Remember that working on resolutions doesn’t include “nagging” or being negative about self or others. Working on resolutions can be fun and educational. This could be the year that you and your children complete your resolutions!
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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Que Su Propósito de Este Año Nuevo Sea Elegir Felicidad
P
La clase de cuarto grado de mi hijo Elijah han estado hablando de los propósitos de Año Nuevo, por lo que él lo mencionó durante la cena de anoche. Su hermana Sienna se emocionó e inmediatamente quiso que todos nosotros hiciéramos propósitos para el Año Nuevo. Me temo que si hacemos propósitos, haremos poco progreso en cumplirlos y se olvidarán pronto. Durante los últimos diez años, mi propósito ha sido el limpiar mis armarios, sin éxito. ¿Qué propósitos de Año Nuevo cree usted que son importantes? ¿Pueden los niños hacer y cumplir los propósitos de Año Nuevo?
Usted pregunta qué propósitos son importante. La respuesta es probablemente los propósitos que hace la vida mejor para usted y los que le rodean. Un propósito que sugiero es enfocarse en su felicidad y hacer lo que razonablemente pueda para ayudar a su familia y amigos a ser felices también. Veo niños infelices y cónyuges infelices en terapia. Hay muchas otras personas infelices que nunca llegan a recibir terapia. ¿Qué hace a un miembro de la familia infeliz? Cuando alguien percibe que no son escuchados o respetados, que no reciben un trato justo o que no se le da espacio seguro para hablar, se quejan de no estar contentos – y a menudo se ven infeliz. Poco es más importante que sentirse seguro, amado y respetado en su familia. La gente calla cuando perciben que otros serán críticos de sus percepciones y pensamientos. Sigmundo Freud dijo algo que
nos debe guiar en las interacciones con los demás: “Elija sus palabra con prudencia, ya que con ellas se puede conducir [a otra persona] a las alturas del éxtasis o las profundidades de la desesperación.” ¿Por qué no enfocarse en el objetivo de la felicidad par usted, su familia y amigos? Este estado de felicidad en la familia seria en muchos casos más importante que los armarios organizados – aunque no hay nada de malo en llevar a cabo los dos, organizar los armarios y crear una vida feliz. Actualmente, estoy leyendo “El Arte de la Felicidad” por el Dalai Lama y Howard C. Cutler, MD. El Dalai Lama escribió: “Si quieres que los demás sean felices, practica la compasión y si tú quieres ser feliz, practica la compasión.” Él continúa diciendo, “Investigadores de la felicidad humana identifican el servicio caritativo a los demás, como una de las principales características compartidas por muchas de las personas más felices del mundo.” La compasión por su familia y amigos dará como resultado una familia feliz. Una madre me dijo una vez que ella piensa “la felicidad está sobrevalorada.” Yo respetuosamente no estoy de acuerdo; Creo que el sentimiento de felicidad es algo que podemos lograr si trabajamos en ella, y con seguridad supera la infelicidad. Usted preguntó si los niños pueden hacer y cumplir con los propósitos de Año Nuevo. Sí pueden, y usted puede ayudarles a hacerlo. Sus hijos pueden querer tener el mismo propósito que el de usted, o es posible que quieran algo diferente. Se puede hablar de propósitos en el coche, en la mesa y/o antes de acostarse. Le ayudará el escribir los propósitos de cada miembro de la familia y establecer revisiones diarias o semanales de progreso. Entre más beneficios ve que vienen de su propósito de Año Nuevo, más apta estará para llevarlo a cabo, y esto también va para sus hijos. Por ejemplo, el propósito de Año Nuevo de un niño podría ser practicar la tuba aunque él no quiera; lo hace porque le gustan los elogios que recibe al estar mejorando o le gusta saber que está tocando mejor. O tal vez lo mantiene en la banda con sus amigos, que también tocan instrumentos. Buena suerte con sus propósitos de Año Nuevo. Recuerde que el trabajar en los propósitos no incluye el ser “insistente” o negativo con uno mismo o con otros. El trabajar en los propósitos puede ser divertido y educativo. ¡Este podría ser el año en el que usted y sus hijos realicen sus propósitos de Año Nuevo!
Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., es una psicoterapeuta situada en Austin que se especializa en el tratamiento de los problemas de los niños, adolescentes y padres.
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Start the New Year With an Emergency Fund by Aaron Crowe
A
t least one study has shown that financial worries beat out to-do lists and work stress as reasons for losing sleep, but there’s one sure way to avoid sleepless nights: keeping enough money in the bank to cover not only your bills, but also emergencies that might arise. If the recent recession taught Americans anything, it’s that saving for a rainy day is a good idea. Five years after the financial crisis began, more people are increasing their savings rates and building an emergency fund, according to Fidelity Five Years Later, a study conducted in February 2013. The survey found that 42 percent of respondents increased their contribution rates to savings plans such as retirement accounts, and exactly the same percentage of people surveyed added to their emergency fund. Fidelity has found that 17 percent of people it surveyed during this economic downturn have lost their jobs or had their pay lowered, says John Sweeney, an executive vice president of retirement and investing strategies for Fidelity in Boston. Without an emergency fund, you are more vulnerable to sudden life changes. A job loss or major expense could put you into debt by forcing you to use a credit card more, which could lead to bankruptcy if circumstances fail to improve. With the new year here, now is the perfect time to start working on your emergency fund. Here are a few things you should know before you begin:
Defining an Emergency
Whether you call it a rainy-day fund or an emergency fund, the first goal should be to set aside three to six months of living expenses in case of a job loss, says Paul Golden, spokesman for the National Endowment for Financial Education. During a recession,
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“Once you use that, you’ll rationalize your way to bleeding it dry, and it’s not there,” Weiss says. Gaining access to the emergency fund should be inconvenient. For instance, you should consider holding the fund at a bank that’s different from the one where you keep other accounts or have paychecks deposited. You also shouldn’t
be able to go online and transfer money from the fund easily, says David Tysk, a private wealth advisor at Ameriprise Financial. “They need to treat the money as if it’s sacred” and not make it as easy to get as swiping an ATM card, Tysk says. _______________ Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist who specializes in personal finance topics.
Golden says, that amount should increase to six to nine months of expenses. Some financial planners recommend using this kind of fund to account for other unforeseen life events, such as major auto repairs, medical emergencies, legal issues, property damage and significant home repairs. That can equate to $15,000 or so in emergency savings, a sum that can be overwhelming if you’re starting from zero. An emergency savings calculator can help clear things up by sorting out how much you have saved and how much you still need to put away, including taxes and investments. Even a small goal of $500 is worth attempting because it’s more attainable and has a positive psychological impact, Golden says. “If you can show yourself that you can achieve that, then you can achieve something higher,” he says. Setting aside money for basic living expenses, such as rent, insurance, food and utilities is smart, but remember when facing job loss or another financial crisis, cutting back on dining out, eliminating cable TV and reeling in other unnecessary lifestyle expenses help save money, too. Six to 12 months of savings for living expenses is best, says Mitchell D. Weiss, an adjunct professor of finance at the University of Hartford in West Hartford, Conn. Three to six months was normal for an emergency fund before the latest recession, but since then more is needed, Weiss says.
Where to Put the Money
The fund should be sacrosanct, and put in a conservative, liquid account such as a certificate of deposit that can be accessed when an emergency happens, Weiss says. But you don’t want to use it for just any expense, such as a vacation, he says.
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 19
the learning curve by Jennifer VanBuren
Mentors Help Students Develop Social, Academic Skills It seems that every week there is a new article about research on what needs to be done to give kids the best chance at being happy and healthy and successful in school. While some people complain about “kids these days,” others wonder what they can do to help kids to grow up to be contributing members of society. How do we support children so they can be successful in school and life? In truth, we already know the answer. In 1990, Search Institute collected data on four million children from a variety of backgrounds. Based on the results, they
released a framework of 40 developmental assets: things that increase the chances for positive outcomes to be realized. Of course, many of these contributions come from parents, teachers, coaches and community leaders. There are ways, however, that regular community members who have no other connection with students can have a huge impact. Specifically, the following assets: •
Young person receives support from three or more nonparent adults
•
Parents(s) and other adults model positive, responsible behavior
Local school and community groups recognize that there is a shared responsibility for giving children the best chance to succeed. One tried-and-true program is mentorship, in which a community member is paired with a student in order to promote a positive experience for both. Austin ISD has seen many educational benefits for mentored youth: better attendance, improved attitudes in school and a greater incidence of students pursuing higher education. In addition to these academic benefits, the students have been less likely to start alcohol or drug use while being mentored.
How It Works
At the beginning of the school year, all parents receive a form on which they can request a mentor for their child. Usually there are more kids than mentors, which is all the more reason to consider volunteering to serve. Teachers, school personnel or the student can request mentors, but parents must consent. It is important that the family be on board in order for the program to be effective. Students who are assigned mentors come from all different backgrounds and ages. They may 20 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
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need academic support or help being motivated to come to school regularly. Children may need help developing the skills of decision-making and problemsolving. They may need practice building relationships with adults and peers. For their part, mentors can indicate a preference for the school to which they are assigned.
Some employers have programs that encourage their employees to participate in mentoring programs. Many mentors come to school during their lunch break and eat in the cafeteria with their mentee. Some employers allow an extended time for lunch; the City of Austin gives its employees up to two hours of administrative leave for mentoring during the workday.
Why would an organization support a mentoring program? Because it works. Having healthy, happy and productive kids and adults who are invested in their future is good for everyone. Jennifer VanBuren is a Georgetown educator and mother of three school-aged boys.
Why would an organization support a mentoring program? Because it works. Mentors generally meet with students during the school day. They may play games, eat lunch or shoot hoops in the gym, but they are also helping the student build self-confidence and working on social and communication skills. Mentors can also check in with the student about progress on academic and personal goals.
Mentor, Not Savior
According to Search Institute, a mentor is a friend, role model, confidant and nurturer of possibilities. Even with the age gap, friendships can flourish. Mentors and students support each other both when things are going well and when there are problems. But a mentor is not a social worker, counselor or doctor. If a student shares a health or safety concern, the mentor must turn to the school staff for help. A mentor might do research to provide specific support, but it is not up to her to become a professional. A mentor should not take the position thinking she is going to swoop in and fix all of the student’s problems. And a mentor limits her energies to befriending and supporting the child, not the child’s entire family. The most important traits of a mentor are to be a dependable presence and to show a genuine interest in the student as a person.
Next Steps
If you are interested in becoming a mentor, contact your local school district. Austin ISD’s extensive mentor program is organized through its Partners in Education program. Potential mentors must fill out a volunteer application, including a background check. School districts offer training specific to mentors and provide on-going support if needed. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 21
Los Mentores Ayudan a los Estudiantes a Desarrollar Habilidades Sociales y Académicas by Jennifer VanBuren Parece que cada semana hay un nuevo artículo sobre la investigación de lo que hay que hacer para darles a los niños la mejor oportunidad de ser felices, saludables, y exitosos en la escuela. Mientras que algunas personas se quejan de “los niños de hoy”, otros se preguntan qué pueden hacer para ayudar a los niños a crecer para ser miembros productivos de la sociedad. ¿Cómo podemos ayudar a los niños para que puedan tener éxito en la escuela y la vida? La verdad, ya sabemos la respuesta. En 1990, el Search Institute juntó datos de cuatro millones de niños de diferentes orígenes. En base a los resultados, lanzaron una estructura de 40 elementos
fundamentales del desarrollo: cosas que aumentan las posibilidades de resultados positivos para realizarse. Por supuesto, muchas de estas contribuciones proceden de los padres, maestros, entrenadores y líderes comunitarios. Sin embargo, hay maneras en las que miembros regulares de la comunidad que no tienen otra conexión con los estudiantes pueden tener un gran impacto. Específicamente, los siguientes elementos: •
Los jóvenes reciben apoyo de tres o más adultos que no son los padres
•
Padres y otros adultos modelan comportamiento positivo y responsable
El distrito escolar local y los grupos comunitarios reconocen que existe una responsabilidad compartida de dar a los niños la mejor oportunidad de tener éxito. Un programa auténtico y probado es el de los mentores, en el que a un miembro de la comunidad le asignan a un estudiante para visitarlo con el fin de promover una experiencia positiva para ambos. En Austin ISD han visto muchos beneficios educativos en los jóvenes que obtuvieron tutoría por mentores: mejor asistencia, una mejor actitud en las escuelas y un mayor interés de los estudiantes a la educación postsecundaria. Además de estos beneficios académicos, los estudiantes han tenido menos probabilidades de iniciar el consumo de alcohol o de drogas durante el tiempo que reciben tutoría.
Cómo Funciona
Al inicio del año escolar, todos los padres reciben un formulario, en el que pueden solicitar un mentor para su hijo/a. Por lo general, hay más niños que mentores, por lo que es una razón más para considerar prestar sus servicios al ser voluntario. Los maestros, personal de la escuela o el estudiante pueden solicitar mentores, pero los padres deben dar su consentimiento. Es importante que la familia este a bordo para que el programa sea eficaz. A los estudiantes que se les asignan mentores provienen de diferentes orígenes y 22 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
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edades. Es posible que necesiten apoyo académico o ayuda para ser motivados a venir a la escuela con regularidad. Los niños pueden necesitar ayuda para desarrollar habilidades para tomar decisiones y resolver problemas. Ellos pueden necesitar práctica para poder asociarse con adultos y compañeros. Por su parte, los mentores pueden indicar su preferencia por la escuela a la que quieren ser asignados. Los mentores generalmente se reúnen con los estudiantes durante el día escolar. Pueden jugar juegos, comer durante el almuerzo o jugar baloncesto en el gimnasio, pero con eso también está ayudando al estudiante adquirir confianza en sí mismo y a la vez trabajan en las habilidades sociales y de comunicación. Los mentores también pueden hablar con el alumno sobre el progreso en sus metas académicas y personales.
es necesario. Las características más importantes de un mentor deben ser una presencia confiable y mostrar un interés genuino en el estudiante como persona. ¿Sabía usted que algunos empleadores tienen programas que animan a sus empleados a participar en programas de mentores? Muchos mentores vienen a la escuela durante su hora de almuerzo y comen en la cafetería con su aprendiz. Algunos empleadores permiten un
tiempo prolongado para el almuerzo; la Ciudad de Austin da a sus empleados hasta dos horas de licencia administrativa para la tutoría durante la jornada laboral. ¿Por qué una organización apoya un programa de tutoría? Porque funciona. Tener niños sanos, felices y productivos, así como adultos que invierten en su futuro es buen para todos. Jennifer VanBuren es una educadora de Georgetown y madre de tres niños en edad escolar.
¿Por qué una organización apoya un programa de tutoría? Porque funciona. Mentores, No Salvadores
Según Search Institute, un mentor es un amigo, modelo a seguir, confidente y formación de posibilidades. Incluso con la diferencia de edad, las amistades pueden florecer. Los mentores y estudiante se apoyan entre sí, tanto en las cosas que van bien como cuando hay problemas. Pero un mentor no es un trabajador social, consejero o médico. Si un estudiante comparte una preocupación de salud o de seguridad, el mentor debe recurrir al personal de la escuela en busca de ayuda. Un mentor puede hacer la investigación para proporcionar un apoyo específico, pero no está en el mentor en convertirse en un profesional. Un mentor no debe tomar la posición en pensar que va a poder lanzarse y solucionar todos los problemas de los estudiantes. Y un mentor debe limitar su energía para hacerse amigo y apoyar al niño/a, no a toda la familia del niño/a.
Siguientes Pasos
Si usted está interesado en convertirse en un mentor, póngase en contacto con su distrito escolar. El extenso programa de mentores de Austin ISD se organiza a través de su programa de Socios en la Educación. Los mentores potenciales deberán llenar una solicitud para voluntario, incluyendo una revisión de antecedentes. Los distritos escolares ofrecen capacitación específica a los mentores y proporcionan apoyo si Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 23
family connections by Richard Singleton
Apps Can Prop up Your Resolutions “To everything…there is a season.” I conveniently left out the “turn, turn, turn” part, but I’m sure that you mentally supplied it, because who couldn’t, right? The Byrds popularized this ancient proverbial concept in 1965, and since then, it’s been tunefully bouncing around in our collective subconscious. It seems in every generation we humans are preoccupied with times, seasons, calendars and finding meaning in the dizzying dash of daily living. In fact, we’ve become so accustomed to keeping track of our lives that every step, lunge, leap and sit-up is being tracked by your phone or whatever wearable is vying for that precious real-estate on your wrist. Calories are incinerated with each new step. Well, that’s the theory anyway. Reality bites. You might be like me, and your fitness app might keep barking at you throughout the day, chiding you for being “inactive” for several hours and suggesting that it would be a good idea to check your pulse to see if perhaps your “purpose under heaven” – to quote the Byrds again – has come to an end.
Okay, I may have put a few words into my fitness app’s mouth there, but our relationship is – how should I put it – “complicated.” As the New Year begins and as we contemplate calendars, needed organization, fitness goals and the myriad of other complexities of life, it makes sense to make technology work for us. As such, here are some ideas for your revolutionary resolutions. Fit Body, Flabby Finances. So, you’ve been in the gym 4 to 5 days a week throughout 2014. Your glutes are tight, your triceps are lean, your calves are defined and your torso is svelte. However, while you and Fergie have been working on your fitness, your finances have become a flabby, shabby mess. There’s an app for that. In fact there are dozens. If you need to be more organized and purposeful with your finances this year, apps like Mint, Budgt, MoneyPad and Expensify could be just the thing to help your budget get as toned and fit as your body…well, almost…we don’t want to get too carried away. Calming the Calendar Chaos. You’ve seen that YouTube snake charmer guy “taming” a room full of cobras, right? Well, compared to some of the disarray and detritus filling our calendars, he’s gotten off light. Perhaps for the New Year, the kind of exercise that you need is exorcising the demons of disorganization from your daily grind. Organization-minded apps might be helpful; apps like 30/30, Evernote, Any.DO, Cozi Family Organizer and RE.Minder might play just the tune you need to calm the savage calendar beast. Breaking Bad…Habits. We’ve all seen enough horrifying commercials, late-night infomercials and shocking BuzzFeed headlines to know that unhealthy habits can be more than a minor annoyance, they can be deadly serious. Maintaining good fitness, eating clean and setting priorities on healthy habits can literally change our lives – even repairing damaged DNA (some of mine might need a building permit, jack hammer and HGTV makeover crew). These habit-breaking and habit-making apps might be helpful for gaining a new lease on life: Habit, Way of Life, Balanced and Mindbloom. Okay, one final word. Part of your journey to a better you might actually be to embrace some Luddite loyalties and eschew technology completely, opting for a more rugged, offthe-grid experience. Can’t say that I blame you. Sometimes the best technology in the world is to just reach back in time to a simpler, slower existence. The Byrds reached back thousands of years and found wisdom in ancient writings. Perhaps a prosaic stroll, a leisurely read or a much needed nap is really what could get your New Year off to a better start. Whether it’s newfangled technology, ancient proverbs or just a slower, practical pace, as this new season of your life begins, may it be the best one yet! Richard Singleton, MACE, MAMFC, LPC, is the executive director at STARRY in Round Rock.
24 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
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austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 25
Education Guide 2015 Private Schools
Ace Academy 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin www.austingifted.org Austin French For Kids 11607 N. Lamar, Austin www.austinfrenchforkids.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 4105 Eck Ln., Austin www.istexas.org Jardin De Ninos Interlingua 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin www.austinbilingualschool.com 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 107 R.R. 620, Ste. 300, Lakeway Linguistica Spanish Immersion 11420 Bee Caves Rd., Austin www.linguisticacenter.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.slcsaustin.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. Stephens Episcopal School 6000 FM 3237, Wimberly www.ststeveschool.org 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 512-339-6000 512-892-2706 512-835-5983 x118 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 512-501-3883 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 512-614-6622 x245 512-352-2313 512-328-2323 512-847-9857 512-451-7105 512-312-2137
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 10321 Boulder Ln., Austin www.bluebonnetschool.com Bluebonnet School of Cedar Park 3420 El Salido Pkwy., Cedar Park www.bluebonnetschool.com Children’s Center of Austin 6507 Jester Blvd., Austin www.childrenscenterofaustin.com 8100 Bee Caves Rd., Austin 4308 N. Quinlan Pk. Rd., Austin Country Home Learning Center 1310 US Hwy 183 North, Austin www.countryhomelearningcenter.com 6900 Escarpment Blvd., Austin Extend-A-Care For Kids 77 area campuses www.eackids.org Fine Arts Academy Allandale www.dancediscovery.com Avery Ranch Froggin Learning Center Corner of 360 and 2222, Austin www.frogginlearning.com Kiddie Academy of Pflugerville 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville www.kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville North Oaks Child Development Center 8830 Cainwood Lane, Austin www.northoakscountry.com Rainbow Station 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Cedar Park www.rainbowstationaustin.org Spicewood Country School 6102 Spicewood Springs Rd., Austin www.spicewoodcountry.com St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School 2128 Barton Hills Dr., Austin www.stmarksdayschoolaustin.org Stepping Stone Schools Locations throughout Austin Metro www.steppingstoneschool.com
3yrs-12th 5yrs-college K4-5th PreK-12th PreK4-8th PreK-8th PreK4-8th K4-8th 9th-12th 3-13 yrs Inf-3rd PreK-8th 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 PreK-6th PreK4-8th PreK4-8th
512-220-9186 512-928-3000 512-805-3000
6th-12th K-5th K-6th
512-219-5100 512-331-9009 512-795-8300 512-329-6633 512-266-6130 512-331-1442 512-288-8220 512-472-9402 512-419-7611 512-658-2996 512-345-3764 512-270-9988 512-250-5117 512-260-9700 512-346-2992 512-444-9401 512-459-0258
Inf-K Inf-K Inf- PreK Inf-13yrs Inf- PreK AfterSch 3rd-5th 1-10yrs 6wks-12yrs Inf-PreK AfterSch Inf-12yrs Inf-K 3-5yrs Inf-K
Resources
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
26 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
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austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 27
lifelines by Dr. Theresa Willis
are chatty, soft spoken or humorous with their patients. Also, ask your obstetrician’s office if they have a referral list. Check the pediatricians’ websites for information on things like office hours, appointment scheduling and availability, and office policies. Ask if the doctor is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. Meet the pediatrician ahead of time. Call the office to see if they have a “Meet the Doctor” night or appointment times set aside to meet with expectant parents. Gauge if you feel comfortable talking with the doctor. Determine if the staff is friendly and attentive. Find out if there are separate waiting rooms for sick and well children. Note that some offices may charge a fee for a one-on-one visit with the doctor. Be sure to ask if there will be any charges when you schedule the visit.
I
f you are expecting a baby soon or maybe moving to a new area, choosing a pediatrician for your child can seem like a daunting task. Where do you start? When do you start? Does it really matter which doctor sees your baby or child? Here are a few ideas to make the process a little easier, more organized and less stressful. Choose your pediatrician six to eight weeks before your baby is due. Start by checking with your medical insurance provider to see which doctors are on your plan. Next, talk to friends and neighbors about who their children see. Look for a doctor with a personality or practice style that most suits you. Some offices have a brisk and efficient style, while others are laid back and nurturing. Various doctors 28 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
Bring questions with you. A good doctor or nurse will be more than happy to answer all of your questions. Your list should include questions like: Who will see my baby in the hospital after delivery – your pediatrician, one of the practice partners or a hospitalist? Who performs circumcisions – the obstetrician or the pediatrician? When should you schedule your first visit? What happens if you have questions or concerns outside of office hours? Is there a nurse available to answer questions during the day? What about at night? What is the expected vaccine schedule for your baby? If baby is sick, can you get same day appointments? How many other doctors are in the practice? How often will you have to see a different doctor? Give extra consideration if you have a high-risk pregnancy. While all board certified pediatricians should be comfortable seeing a child with a disability or more complicated medical history, sometimes it is helpful to find a doctor who has more experience or familiarity with your baby’s condition. For example, some pediatricians see
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more children with cerebral palsy or Down’s syndrome. You can also check specific websites, such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association, for support groups and parent connections that can help you find the right pediatrician. If you are seeing a prenatal specialist, ask for a referral. Involve your older child when finding a new doctor. Perhaps you’ve moved or maybe your child’s doctor has moved, retired or no longer accepts your insurance. Now what? Your neighbors, school nurses and community resources are a great place to start. You may want to find a more experienced pediatrician if your older child is facing some emotional or academic issues that require a physician’s help to coordinate services. Look for someone who is comfortable talking with adolescents and interested in their activities and social needs. A good pediatrician is comfortable with all age ranges, newborn to young adult, but you may want to be sure your older child is comfortable. You may want to bring your child in for a simple sick visit, such as a runny nose or rash, in order to meet the doctor. If you aren’t comfortable, you can always try a different practice next time. It is good, however, to be established with a physician so that when your child is truly ill, the doctor is familiar with your child’s medical history, and you don’t have to wait for an appointment because you are considered a new patient. Once you’ve chosen a pediatrician, you can relax and rest easy knowing who you will see and what to expect when your child needs to see the doctor. Dr. Theresa Willis is a board certified pediatric physician practicing in Austin.
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austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 29
Support Your Child’s New Year’s Resolutions by Lance Haverda
It’s the time of year when much ado is made of resolutions, and your son or daughter might be excited to make a one now. But sticking with resolutions can be difficult for many young people. Where do they start? How do they set a measurable, realistic goal? Can they stick with it? Resolutions require time and pointed resolve to take hold, and it will be up to you, the parent, to guide the goal setting and encourage daily effort.
30 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
Consider what drives your child and use this as motivation. Encouragement and your time spent helping is absolutely critical. Sitting at the table doing your own work (reading a book, paying bills or writing letters) alongside him can be a great motivator for your child. Don’t underestimate the value of being present for your child physically, mentally and emotionally.
Here are three common resolutions and some suggestions for how to help your child see them through to fruition. 1. Be a Better Student – Sit down 1 with your child and analyze his class schedule. Let him discuss with you his own measurable goals and desire for raising grades. Let him own this; you are the coach and cheerleader. Dedicated reading time can facilitate improved learning; make this a family event. Raising a grade level may be as simple as spending a bit of extra time each day on a tough subject. Set a goal of 30 extra minutes a day and bump that up if need be. In my own house, we had to make it 60 additional minutes based on my preteen’s workload. It worked. He raised his grades to “All-A’s” in a single progress period.
2. Become a Better Citizen – Some kids really enjoy working for a cause and want to set their sights on affecting positive change in the world. Fostering this Good Samaritan mentality can result in a lasting feeling of pride.
2
Look for opportunities to volunteer time and services in your community, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Plug into stewardship programs through a religious organization;
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Mobile Loaves and Fishes is a good example. My brother and his son make the rounds once a month, and they cherish that time together. Organize a neighborhood food or clothing drive for charity. Discuss the many opportunities with your child and allow him to come up with a list of possibilities. Let the child drive the agenda, but let your commitment and support sustain it. 3. Get Healthy – Sometimes, the 3 most common-sense aspects of a healthy lifestyle can be overlooked. Does your child drink enough water? Talk to your pediatrician about the appropriate amount for his age. Discuss the use of screen time with your child and ask if he would like the family to be more active. A 20-minute family walk right after dinner can help everyone’s health and build a family connection. My eight year old’s school gave each child a jump rope. Now, he jumps every morning and tries to beat his personal best number of jumps without stopping. Not only is it fun for him, but he is exercising. Encourage your child to take ownership of his resolutions. This should be your child’s creation, but you have some input, as well. You are not trying to fix your child, but to encourage him to grow. Discuss his goals in terms of his buy-in and excitement, not your own dictation of what he should do. Guide and support him to write these goals down, maybe even formulating a contract that you both sign and promise to follow. Any resolution requires committed resolve. A child’s resolution requires a parent’s time, consistent effort, gentle guidance and dedicated leadership. _______________ Lance Haverda lives in Austin and is a passionate advocate for children, adolescents and young adults. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
austinfamily.com | January 2015 | 31
Camp Guide
Ages 8 - 18 Watch for details on our summer program.
Camp Guide
Austin Sailboat Rentals 20 N. IH-35, on Lady Bird Lake 512-431-1894 www.austinsailboatrentals.com Ages 6 - 15 Austin Sailboat Rentals sailing camps are conveniently located in downtown Austin on Lady Bird Lake and are a lot of fun!
Bits, Bytes & Bots Computer Adventures Locations throughout Austin 512-415-4120 austintx.bitsbytesbots.com Ages 6 - 14 Fun-filled technology education programs in LEGO® NXT® Robotics, LEGO® WeDo® Robotics, computer game creation, stop-motion animation movie making and Minecraft® programming.
Summer Camp Guide 2015
This month’s Camp Guide sponsored by:
YMCA of Austin austinymca.org YMCA of Greater Williamson County ymcagwc.org
Camp Guide
Camp Guide
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Camp Guide
Badgerdog Creative Writing Summer Camp Austin 512-542-0076 www.austinlibrary.org Ages incoming 3rd to 12th graders Have fun learning to write.
Check out austinfamily.com for Premium Camp descriptions DAY CAMPS Pages 32-43 OVERNIGHT CAMPS Pages 44-45
DAY CAMPS Allstar Sports Camp ASA 3918 Gattis School Road Round Rock 512-251-7500 www.austinsportsarena.com Ages 5 - 14 Your child will have a blast and develop their athletic skills by playing soccer, basketball, ultimate Frisbee, football, dodgeball, pickleball, floor hockey, kickball, roller skating and more! Each child receives world class coaching and instruction as well as a camp t-shirt, and full-day campers enjoy lunch Monday through Friday.
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ATX Action Sports Camp Austin 866-465-7073 texasskateboardingclub.com Ages 5 - 15 Skateboarding fun. Sign up now. Austin Aquarium 13530 N. Hwy 183 512-222-5586 www.austinaquarium.com Ages all An awesome aquatic experience Austin Girls’ Choir Summer Camp 512-453-0884 www.girlschoir.com
Bluebonnet Schools Summer Camps 3420 El Salido Parkway 10321 Boulder Ln. 512-331-9009 and 512-219-5100 Ages 5 - 10 Kids love our amazing water park; spacious playing fields and outdoors arenas, field trips to fun places, delicious provided hot lunches and snacks, and interesting session themes. Parents appreciate our locked, secure facility location and hours; experienced counselors, provided sunscreen, indoor air-conditioned spaces, buses with child-sized seatbelts and our NAEYC accreditation. Brentwood Christian School Sports Camp 11908 N. Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78753 512-835-5983, ext 130 www.brentwoodchristian.org Grades 1st-4th and 5th-8th One week camps are offered for half days for kids entering grades 1st-4th and 5th-8th. Each week a different sport is offered including baseball, girls basketball, boys basketball, softball, flag football, track & field, soccer and volleyball. Please check the Brentwood Christian School website in May for dates and times when each camp will be offered. Bricks 4 Kidz ATX Greater Austin locations including Round Rock, Dripping Springs, Lake Travis 512-270-9003 www.bricks4kidz.com/atx Camper ages: 5 to 13 Build LEGO® models that move! Our themed enrichment camps feature motorized building, crafts, games, and creative building time. Campers take home LEGO® minifigures or accessory packs. Café Monet Summer Art Westgate Shopping Center and The Triangle, Austin, San Marcos 512-892-3200, 512-906-2200, 512-805-2800 www.cafemonet.org Ages 6 and up Art Camp @ Café Monet is a hands-on lesson in creativity! Pottery painting, mosaics, clay building, green projects and more! We offer four curricula.
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Creative Action 2015 Camps Central Austin, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Circle C 512-442-8773 www.creativeaction.org Ages 5 - 12 We offer theatre, dance, music, puppetry, film, visual arts and more. continued on page 34
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Children’s Center of Austin 8100 Bee Caves Rd., 512-329-6633
Country Home Learning Center South Austin 6900 Escarpment Blvd Austin, TX 78749 512-288-8220 North Austin 13120 US Hwy 183 North 512-331-1441 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Ages: 5 - 13 Join us for an incredible Summer Camp experience! Kinder—13 Years, Child Approved Special Events, Exciting Weekly Field Trips, Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs
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Cheer Station 12112 Broadwalk Dr. www.cheerstation.com 512-45CHEER Ages 3 - 17 Austin’s favorite place to cheer for 6 years running.
Cordovan Art School Summer Camp www.cordovanartschool.com Ages 5 - 16 Best art camp in the greater Austin area 4 years running! From “Talk with the Animals” to “Duct Tape Creations.” Traditional drawing, painting, ceramics and Broadway theatre!
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Challenger School Summer Camps 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock 15101 Avery Ranch Rd. 512-255-8844, 512-341-8000 www.challengerschools.com Ages Preschool - 8th
7507 Jester Blvd., 512-795-8300 4308 N. Quinlan Park Rd., 512-266-6130 www.childrenscenterofaustin.com Ages 5 - 8 Our summer camp is full of excitement, including daily field trips, daily swimming, arts, crafts, cooking, science projects and more!
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Capital City Guitar Camp 9905 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, TX 78750 417-300-4078 www.capitalcityguitarcamp.com Ages 8 and up A camp for all ages, beginners through advanced. Beginners receive a free guitar! Classes in ageappropriate technique, improv, theory, recording, performance and much fun. Great teachers.
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Camp Doublecreek 800 Doublecreek Drive, Round Rock 512- 255-3661 www.campdoublecreek.com Ages 4 - 14 Camp Doublecreek is Austin/Round Rock’s Best Day Camp for 9 years running. Let your campers be challenged, encouraged and inspired as they engage in a variety of activities Doublecreek’s mission is that every camper leaves at the end of the day knowing someone believes in them.
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Creative Brick Builders 220 Sundance Pkwy, STE 300, Round Rock and at additional locations in Greater Austin 512-388 9003 www.creativebrickbuilders.com Ages: 5 - 13 Create, tinker, build, and explore! Creative Brick Builders offers classes, camps and workshops featuring engineering, electronic circuits, digital media, art, computers, handcrafts and more.
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Dance Discovery Central - 2110 White Horse Trail, & Avery Ranch - 10526 W Parmer Ln, 512-419-7611, 512-658-2996 www.dancediscovery.com Averyranchdance.com Ages 3 - 14 Various themed Camps include Storytime Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Gymnastics, Yoga, Arts & Crafts, and Musical Theatre. Each camp week ends with a great show!
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Esoteric Farm 15 minutes north of downtown Austin 512-272-4301 www.esotericfarm.com Ages 5 - 16 Eleven weekly sessions, daily horse-related games and activities, indoor horse arena; fun, active, affordable.
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Extend-A-Care for Kids Summer Day Camp 10 locations in elementary schools in the Austin area (AISD, DVISD, HCISD) 512-472-9402 www.eackids.org
34 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
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kidsActing Locations throughout Austin 512-836-KIDS www.kidsactingstudio.com Ages 4 - 19 Full scale productions, fun classes. KidsDance! Summer Camps and Programs Dancers Workshop 11150 Research Blvd. #107 512-349-7197 www.dancersworkshopaustin.com Age 2 - 10 The young-uns can test out their feet with half- and full-day camps with princess and rock star themes. More experienced dancers should register for summer intensives in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and continued on page 36 more.
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Heartsong Music 2700 West Anderson Lane, Ste. 320 512-371-9506 www.HeartsongMusic.net heartsong@heartsongmusic.net Did you know that Music Learning Supports All Learning®? Join us this Spring and Summer for our
Kiddie Academy Summer Camp 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville 512-270-9988 kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville Creativity, laughter and imagination are all here.
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Girlstart 1400 W. Anderson Lane 512-916-4775 www.girlstart.org Ages - 3rd - 7th grade Girlstart offers week-long summer day camps in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Girlstart camps include a balance of hands-on STEM activities, relevant technology, collaborative team building and informal camp fun!
International School of Texas 4105 Eck Lane 512-351-3403 istexas.org Ages 2 - 13 Mandarin, Spanish, swimming, music and more.
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Froggin Spanish for Kids Hwy 360 512-345-3764 or 512-228-7854 www.frogginlearning.com Ages 1 - 10 Games, songs, hands-on activities.
Music Together® classes for children from birth to 5 and their parents/caregivers. Our research based program will nurture your child’s musical development as well as support her cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development. Our classes will also build your child’s confidence, self-esteem and creative expression! We offer a Big Kids program too, for 5 to 9 year olds.
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French Summer Camp 11607 N. Lamar Blvd. 512-964-7733 www.austinfrenchforkids.org Ages 2½ - 13 Where French immersion meets academic excellence.
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Ages 3 - 12 Weekly sessions consisting of softball, basketball, soccer, field trips, swimming, cooking, games and puzzles, reading and literacy activities, arts and crafts and more. Weekly themes are based on literature.
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“Layla y la Ballena” Spanish Immersion 8707 Mountain Crest Dr. 2700 West Anderson Ln, 107 Ranch Rd. 620, S #300, Lakeway 512-299-5731, 512-299-5732, 512-466-2409 www.austinbilingualschool.com Ages 2 - 11 Children join together to make the story “Leyla y la Ballena” come to life. Every week is dedicated to a theme which is taught in an enthusiastic, fun filled environment.
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Linguistics Spanish Immersion Center 512-501-3883 linguisticacenter.com Ages All Childhood is the ideal time to learn Spanish and have fun.
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Mad Science Locations throughout Austin 512-892-1143 austin.madscience.org Ages 4 - 12 Mad Science camps are filled with exciting, fun, hands-on science activities. Children become junior scientists for the week and experience a variety of science adventures.
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Mathnasium Round Rock 512-415-5371 Mathnasium.com/roundrock Ages 6-17 Our summer programs give students an extra boost for the school year ahead. Be it good,
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solid review of previous material or jump start on upcoming concepts. Most students will get some of both.
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Mu Sool Won of South Austin Martial Arts 1901 W William Cannon Dr. #121 512-299-1873 www.mswsouthaustin.com Ages 5 - 15 All inclusive half day summer camp. NETS Entrepreneur Cedar Park 512-996-9260 www.educenter4me.com Inspire your kids through strategic learning activities.
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Nitro Swim Center Cedar Park/Round Rock, Bee Cave on Hwy. 71 512-259-7999 www.nitroswim.com Ages 6 months - adult The indoor Nitro Swim Center offers the highest quality swim lessons, non-competitive and competitive swimming around.
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North Oaks Country Summer Camp 8830 Cainwood Ln. 512-250-5117 www.northoakscountry.com Ages: 6 - 9 Our students work hard during the school year, and summer’s the time to let it out and have fun! Our summer camps involve three to four field trips a week to places like; splash pad, bowling, bouncy houses, parks, movies, aquarium and more! When on campus we play games, play ball, and play with our electronics. continued on page 38
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Paramount Academy for the Arts The State Theatre 719 Congress Ave. 512-692-0524 www.austintheatre.org/camps Ages 4 years - 12th grade Make lifelong memories at the Paramount and Stateside Theatres! We offer a variety of camps for all ages including acting, singing, dancing and even stand-up comedy.
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Phoenix Arising Aviation Summer Camp 10435 Burnet Rd. Suite 108 512-588-2359 www.phoenixaviation.org Ages 6 - 13 Weeklong programs in aviation and aerospace.
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Quarries Camp 11400 North Mopac Expy. 512-241-0233 www.hpbc.org/quarries Ages 1st - 5th grade Quarries Camp is always FUN for campers, offering exciting on-site activities and weekly field trips during the entire summer.
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Rainbow Station’s The Village Summer Program 11651 W. Parmer Ln. 512-260-9700 www.rainbowstationaustin.org Ages infant - 12 An entire facility dedicated to school-age children. Full-day camp offers weekly mini courses, swim lessons, sports, weekly field trips and an end-ofsummer picnic. Freedom of choice is the hallmark of our summer program.
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Redeemer Summer Camps Redeemer Campus – 1500 W Anderson Lane 512-459-3015 www.redeemerschool.net Ages completed Kinder – completed 3rd grade Weekly themed camps such as basketball, field trip palooza, musical, science, etc! 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. pick up rates.
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Rio Vista Farm 13013 Fallwell Ln. 512-247-2302 www.riovistafarm.net Ages 7 - 16 Austin’s originator of English Riding camp. Daily lessons taught by professional trainers, lots of horse time/care, arts and crafts, swimming for hotter afternoons. Friday horse shows for parents to attend.
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Round Rock Express Baseball Camps Dell Diamond, Round Rock 512-255-BALL www.roundrockexpress.com Ages 6 and up Youngsters from all over central Texas will have the opportunity to hone their baseball skills. Full-day and overnight camps for ages 8 and up. Call for details.
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Spicewood Country Camp 6102 Spicewood Springs 512-346-2992 www.spicewoodcountry.com scschool@flash.net Ages 3½ - 10 Nine shady acres in Northwest Austin with animals, music, swimming, crafts, sports and horseback riding. continued on page 40
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Stepping Stone School 12 locations around Austin Metro area 512-459-0258 www.steppingstoneschool.com Camper ages: Ages 5 to 13 For children, summer should be all about having fun. But as parents, you want to ensure they don’t lose their academic sharpness between school years. The Brainery at Stepping Stone School provides a balance between a curriculum that challenges and engages your child and activities that exercise your child’s mind and body. This year’s summer camp will feature biweekly themes on the various biomes of the earth, including the ocean, frozen lands and deserts. Don’t let your child miss out on this captivating summer camp with its exciting Field Journeys, one-of-a-kind entrepreneur and philanthropy program, chess tournaments, swim lessons (at many campuses) and more!!
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St. Mark’s Episcopal Summer Camp 2128 Barton Hills Dr. 512-444-9401 www.stmarksdayschoolaustin.org Ages 3 - 5 Come discover a different children’s book each week, and many age appropriate activities.
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Summer Term and Jumpstart Rawson Saunders School 2614 A Exposition Blvd. 512-476-8382 www.rawsonsaunders.org/summer Ages 2nd to 8th grade Summer Term at Rawson Saunders helps students with learning differences maintain language arts and
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math skills. Camp Jumpstart incoming first graders develop literacy and math skills.
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Summer Wonders 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd. 512-203-4540 www.summerwonders.org Ages 4 - 13 A non-profit program for gifted students to explore diverse subjects through an integrated, hands-on approach, presented in a fun, creative manner.
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Switch Willo Stables Summer Camps 4829 Switch Willo 512-331-8668 www.switchwillo.com Ages 6 - 14 Daily riding instruction, horse care and fun. An Austin Family Readers’ Poll Favorite. Visit our website for more details.
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Synergy Dance 3425 Bee Cave Rd. 512-327-4130 www.synergydancestudio.com Ages 2 and up, beginning to advanced dancers Dance camps for ages 3-11 including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, gymnastics, theatre, crafts & a performance on Friday. Dance Intensives for Intermediate – Advanced dancers age 7 and up.
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TexARTS Summer Camps TexARTS Summer Camps 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 160 512-852-9079 www.tex-arts.org Ages 5 - 18 TexARTS has an incredible summer planned, offering full-day, half-day and mini camps in dance, theatre, voice and visual arts. This summer kicks off with the annual Musical Theatre Intensive. Students in this three-week, production-based intensive will work, at a pace equal to any professional theatre company, to rehearse, stage and perform their version of a Broadway musical. The TexARTS Summer Musical Theatre Intensive offers an extra perk as students will work with Broadway teaching
artists in preparation for opening night. Past summers have seen sold out public performances of “Legally Blonde” and “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”
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Thinkery Camps Thinkery 512.469.6200 www.thinkeryaustin.org Ages PreK-5th grade Thinkery camps offer hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, art and math as a platform for innovation. Each week, campers engage in fun challenges that inspire creativity.
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THE Y.E.T. Project www.yetraining.com 512-775-1886 yetraining@gmail.com Ages 12 - 15 Young Entrepreneurship Training project is a 6 week summer camp where students age 12-15 will create a LIVE company, develop an ACTUAL product, sell
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Outdoor Adventure Camps, K - 8th grade Excursion Camps, K - 6th grade Specialty Camps, K - 8th grade Kinder Camps, 3 years - K At the Y, we offer a wide array of summer camp options and activities that are designed to make summer fun, exciting, convenient and safe.
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the product to a TRUE audience for a BONA-FIDE profit!
ZACH Theatre Performing Arts Camps 1510 Toomey Rd. 512-476-0594 x236 www.zachtheatre.org Ages 3 - 18 ACT at ZACH! Explore acting, improvisation, singing and dancing. Put on a fun show for family and friends!
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YMCA of Austin 21 Locations in Travis & Hays Counties 512-236-9622 www.AustinYMCA.org Ages - 4-14 Weekly sessions run June through August. Kinder, Theme, Sports and Adventure Camps offer swimming, field trips, games, crafts, characterbuilding activities and more. Financial assistance available.
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YMCA of Greater Williamson County Summer Camps www.ymcagwc.org Round Rock 512-246-9622 Hutto 512-846-2360 Burnet 512-756-6180 Cedar Park 512-250-9622 Round Rock 512-615-5563
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OVERNIGHT CAMPS
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Camp Cedarbrook Rosebud, TX www.cedarbrooktexas.com Ages 2nd - 12th grade Central Texas Christian camp dedicated to building Christian skills through activities and relationships.
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Camp Heart O’ the Hills 30 Hwy 39, Hunt, TX 830-238-4650 www.hohcamp.com Ages 6 - 16 Ragsdale family-owned and operated, airconditioned, Guadalupe River, family-style meals, character-building and skills.
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Camp Lantern Creek 4045 N. FM 1486, Montgomery, TX 936-597-8225 www.camplanterncreek.com Ages Girls 7 - 17
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Camp Rio Vista for Boys & Camp Sierra Vista for Girls Ingram, TX 830-367-5353 www.vistacamps.com Ages 6 - 16 Traditional, non-denomination summer camps, where our goal is to provide a safe, wholesome, fun-filled environment for every boy and girl. Brother/sister camps located on the Guadalupe River.
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Camp Stewart Hunt, TX 830-238-4670 www.campstewart.com Boys ages 6 - 16 For over 80 years, traditional summer camping at its best for boys. Outstanding facilities, exciting and varied activities, qualified counselors and protected environment.
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Rocky River Ranch Wimberley, TX 512-847-2513 www.rockyriverranch.com Girls ages 7 - 14 Rocky River Ranch is a rustic, residential camp for girls in Wimberley, the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
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Sugar & Spice Ranch Camp Bandera,TX 830-460-8487 www.texashorsecamps.com Ages 5 and up Bonding mothers and daughters through horses. You and your daughter will own horses for a week and do everything together as a team. All-inclusive week-long session and a great way to reconnect with each other.
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Ki d e n o Z January Crafts January is a great month to work on arts and crafts! The weather can be chilly and wet, and craft projects can be done inside while sipping a nice hot cup of cocoa. GREAT IDEAS! Television. Water skis. Earmuffs. Popsicles. What do they have in common? All were invented by kids! Celebrate the ingenuity young brains on January 17, Kid Inventors’ Day. Let your children brainstorm, sketch their ideas on paper and create models of their inventions with art supplies. EACH ONE IS UNIQUE. Hang paper snowflakes from the ceiling to create a winter wonderland. Begin with graph paper, found at most art or craft supply stores; any size grid will work. Kids can use silver or any color metallic gel pens to create a snowflake on a piece of graph paper. Start at the center of the page, filling one square at a time. The snowflake will take shape as kids work outward to make the crystal branches. WEARING LITTLE TUXEDOS. January 19 is Penguin Awareness Day, a great time to make a papier mache penguin. You will need an empty 16 oz. water bottle and a bowl of papier mache pulp. Make the pulp by shredding newspapers and placing them in a blender with some water. Blend, then drain the water with a colander. Place the drained newspaper in a bowl and add 1 tbsp. of glue. Stir everything up, and you have papier mache pulp. Cover the entire water bottle with the pulp and add some extra to the lid to form a head with a small beak. Dry the project overnight, then paint it with black and white paints.
YMCA of Austin camps are a great way to keep your kids safe and active. Spring break camp registration opens in January! Locations throughout Travis, Hays and Bastrop Counties. Visit www.austinymca.org for details or call 512-236-9622 to find the location nearest you. Remember to visit us at the Austin Family Camp Fair!
46 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
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Focus On Doctors
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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 10
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Dr. Theresa Willis
ADC Steiner Ranch Dr. Willis is a graduate of the University of Texas, received her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed her residency at Texas Children’s Hospital. Dr. Willis’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 10
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calendar
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family events
Tres Reyes, Jan. 11
Thursday 1 New Year’s Day Pool Polar Plunge 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Swim at your own risk. Barton Springs Pool, 2201 Barton Springs Rd. 512-8673080. Pfreeze Pflop 10 a.m. Scott Mentzer Pool, 901 Old Austin Hutto Rd., Pflugerville. pflugervilletx.gov. Polar Bear Splash 1 p.m. Kyle Pool, Gregg-Clark Park, 1100 W. Center St., Kyle. FREE. cityofkyle.com. First Thursday South Congress 5 to 8 p.m. South Congress Ave. from Barton Springs Rd. to Elizabeth St. firstthursday.info. First Thursdays Downtown Buda 5 to 9 p.m. Downtown Buda. budachamber.com. Friday 2 Mario Kart 8 Wii U Tournament 2 p.m. Family gaming tournament. Howson Branch, 2500 Exposition Blvd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974974-8800.
Disney in Concert, Jan. 11
MLK March, Festival and Food Drive, Jan. 19
Austin Family Camp Fair, Jan. 24
family events page 48 parenting events page 49 open house events page 49 storytimes page 50 exhibits: visit www.austinfamily.com 48 | January 2015 | austinfamily.com
Saturday 3 Madrone Canyon Hike 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Back of the Laura Bush parking lot, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512327-3045. Drawing Salon 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Elisabet Ney Museum, 304 E. 44th St. Materials and participation FREE. austintexas. gov/elisabetney or 512-458-2255. English Conversation Group 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512989-3188. Giant Chess 12:30 to 3 p.m. Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe St. FREE. giantchess.org. Movie Matinee: The Iron Giant 2 p.m. Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9840. Mario Kart 8 Wii U Tournament 2 p.m. Family gaming tournament. Southeast Branch, 5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3800. Austin Ballroom Dances 7:30 to 11 p.m. Go Dance Studio, 2525 West Anderson Lane. Free mini-lesson included with admission. Members $5; non-members $8. austinballroomdancers.org or 512-989-3939. Sunday 4 First Sundays Free 12 to 3 p.m. Bob Bullock State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. thestoryoftexas.com or 512936-8746. First Sunday Family Day 12 to 4 p.m. Families with children 4 to 14 years old. Umlauf Sculpture Garden, 605 Robert E. Lee Rd. FREE. umlaufsculpture.org or 512-445-5582. Sunday-Fundays: New Year Resolutions and Noisemakers 1 to 4 p.m. Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St. FREE. nchmuseum.org. Open House 1 to 4 p.m. Heritage House Museum, 901 Old Austin Hutto Rd., Pflugerville. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6350. Tuesday 6 Little Texas Homeschool 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. Ages 2 to 10. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Family Activity Night: Laughter Yoga
COMPILED BY BETTY KEMPER
6:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Community Cinema: A Path Appears 7 p.m. Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9840. Wednesday 7 Storytime in the Winter 10 to 11 a.m. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. 2 to 6 years old. $3. wildflowercenter.org or 512-232-0100. High Noon Talks 12 to 1 p.m. Bob Bullock State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress. thestoryoftexas.com or 512-9368746. Community Nights 5 to 8 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Admission is by donation, suggested $1. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Arts and Crafts 6 to 7 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. Ages 8 and older with an adult. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. 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. Thursday 8 Thursday Noon Concerts 12 p.m. Central Presbyterian Church, 200 E. Eighth St. Concert FREE. cpcaustin.org or 512-472-2445. Friday 9 Friday Night Live 6 to 9 p.m. Farley Middle School, 303 County Rd. 137, Hutto. Open to 6th to 8th graders in Hutto. $10 per student. hutto.org or 512-759-4030. Alison Balsom: A Night of Music 8 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. All ages. $12. thelongcenter.org or 512-457-5115. Saturday 10 Bright Leaf Hikes 9 to 11:30 a.m. Bright Leaf Preserve, Creek Mountain Rd. FREE. brightleaf.org or 512-459-7269. Hands-on History 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin St., Georgetown. FREE for children of all ages. williamsonmuseum.org or 512-943-1670. Second Saturdays Are for Families: For the Birds 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St. Recommended for ages 2 to 11. $10 per family; member families $5. thecontemporaryaustin.org or 512-458-8191. Chess Club 12 p.m. Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. All ages welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. library. austintexas.gov or 512-974-8840. Mario Kart 8 Wii U Tournament 12:30 and 2 p.m. Family gaming tournament. Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St. library.austintexas. gov or 512-974-8840. CONTINUING: Drawing Salon see Saturday 3; Giant Chess see Saturday 3; Alison Balsom: A Night of Music see Friday 9. Sunday 11 Disney In Concert 3 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. All ages. $29. thelongcenter.org or 512-457-5115. Tres Reyes 12p.m. - 3 p.m. 512 W. Stasney, La Michoacana Meat Market CONTINUING: Bright Leaf Hikes see Saturday 10. Wednesday 14 CONTINUING: Arts and Crafts see Wednesday 7; Storytime in the Winter see Wednesday 7;
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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Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 7.
Storytime in the Winter see Wednesday 7.
Thursday 15 CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 8.
Thursday 29 CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 8.
Friday 16 Austin Home and Garden Show 2 to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. Adults $8.50; seniors $6.50; 16 and under FREE. austinhomeandgardenshow.com.
Friday 30 Family Night: Minecraft, the Story of Mojang 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. $15. Thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200.
Saturday 17 Chess Club 12 p.m. Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. All ages welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8840. Disney’s Aladdin Jr. by TexARTS Kam & James Morris Theatre, 2300 Lohman’s Spur Suite #160, Lakeway $15 tex-arts.org or 512-8529079 CONTINUING: Drawing Salon see Saturday 3; Giant Chess see Saturday 3; English Conversation Group see Saturday 3; Austin Ballroom Dances see Saturday 3; Austin Home and Garden Show see Friday 16. Sunday 18 Clueless Mysteries Book Club 3 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. CONTINUING: Austin Home and Garden Show see Friday 16; Disney’s Aladdin Jr. see Saturday 17. Monday 19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day March, Festival and Food Drive 9 a.m. Program and march; 3 p.m. Festival. HustonTillotson University. Donation canned or nonperishable goods. mlkcelebration.com. MLK Day of Service 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. United Way locations throughout Williamson County. unitedway-wc.org or 512-255-6799. MLK Holiday Walk Bastrop Check website for time. Location rotates within the county. visitbastroptx.com Tuesday 20 Family Activity Night: Craft 6:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Wednesday 21 CONTINUING: Arts and Crafts see Wednesday 7; Storytime in the Winter see Wednesday 7. Thursday 22 CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 8. Friday 23 Dance Around the World 7 to 9 p.m. Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. FREE and family-friendly. theatre-austin-conservatory-arts.com. Saturday 24 Austin Family Camp Fair 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. austinfamily.com or 512-7330038. The Six Seasons 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Kleberg Stage, Zach Theatre, 1510 Toomey Rd. Ages 7 and up. zachtheatre.org or 512476-0541. CONTINUING: Drawing Salon see Saturday 3; Giant Chess see Saturday 3; Disney’s Aladdin Jr. see Saturday 17. Sunday 25 Austin Fashion Doll Club 2 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Carnival of the Animals 2:30 and 3:45 p.m. Come dressed as your favorite animal. Ballet Austin’s Austin Ventures Studio Theater, 501 W. 3rd St. Ages 3 to 10 and their family members. $10. balletaustin.org or 512-476-9151. CONTINUING: Disney’s Aladdin Jr. see Saturday 17. Wednesday 28 Christa McAuliffe Day CONTINUING: Arts and Crafts see Wednesday 7;
Saturday 31 Chess Club 12 p.m. Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. All ages welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. library. austintexas.gov or 512-974-8840. CONTINUING: Drawing Salon see Saturday 3; Giant Chess see Saturday 3; The Six Seasons see Saturday 24.
parenting events
Tuesdays and Thursdays English Parenting Classes 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Any Baby Can, 1121 E. 7th St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743. Saturdays Clases de Criaza Con Cariño en Español 3 to 5 p.m. Any Baby Can, 1121 E. 7th St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743. Thursdays Postpartum Support Group 10 to 11 a.m. Any Baby Can, 1121 E. 7th St. anybabycan.org or 512-454-3743. Thursday 1 North Austin Mothers Club Visit website for updated information. northaustinmothersclub.org
Ten Things... That Can Make You Sick! Germs and allergens lurk in the most unexpected places. Time to clean up!
1 HVAC duct work 2 Children’s car seats
3 Reusable grocery bags
4 Vacuum cleaners
open house events
Tuesday 6 Stepping Stone Schools 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Locations throughout Austin metro, steppingstoneschool.com. Thursday 8 International School of Texas 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 4105 Eck Ln., istexas.org. Saturday 10 St. Gabriel’s Catholic School 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., 2500 Wimberly Lane, 327-7755 or sgs-austin.org. Challenger School 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Round Rock and Avery Ranch, challengerschool.com.. Tuesday 13 St. Gabriel’s Catholic School 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.,2500 Wimberly Ln., sgs-austin.org.
5 Toothbrushes 6 Toys after play dates
7 Kitchen sink
Wednesday 14 Challenger School 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Round Rock and Avery Ranch, challengerschool.com.
8 Remote control
Tuesday 20 Sci-Tech Preparatory 6 to 7 p.m., 6405 S. IH 35, sci-techprep.org.
9 Computer keyboard
Wednesday 21 Challenger School 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., 15101 Avery Ranch Blvd, 3418000 or challengerschool.com.
10 Doorknobs
Thursday 22 International School of Texas 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 4105 Eck Ln., istexas.org. St. Francis School 9 to 11 a.m., 300 E. Huntland Dr., stfrancis-school. org. Saturday 24 Challenger School 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. , Round Rock and Avery Ranch, challengerschool.com.
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Sunday 25 St. Louis Catholic School 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2114 St. Joseph Blvd., slcsaustin.org. Monday 26 CONTINUED: Open House Bronze Doors Academy see Jan. 5. Tuesday 27 St. Stephen’s School 9 a.m. to noon. St. Stephen’s School, 6500 St. Stephens Dr. sstx.org or 512-327-1213. Challenger School 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Round Rock and Avery Ranch, challengerschool.com. St. Stephen’s Episcopal School 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. , 6000 FM 3237, Wimberly, ststeveschool.org. Thursday 29 Open House Cathedral School of Saint Mary 9:30 a.m., Cathedral School Mass and open house, 910 San Jacinto Blvd. 476-1480 or smcschoolaustin.org. Friday 30 Cathedral School of Saint Mary 7:45 to 10 a.m., 910 San Jacinto Blvd., 476-1480 or smcschoolaustin.org. Saturday 31 CONTINUED: Open House Cathedral School of Saint Mary see Jan. 30.
storytimes
Austin Public Library storytimes are too numerous for our calendar, but include storytimes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and all ages. In addition, there are dual language and Spanish language storytimes. Visit the Austin Public Library website for dates, locations, age groups and times. library.austintexas. gov or 512-974-7400.
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Public library storytime events listed here are free unless otherwise noted. Programs subject to change. Please contact before attending. Mondays Baby Time 10 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 yrs. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-9906375. Infant Storytime 10:30 a.m. Birth to 1 yr. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.co or 512-327-3045. Bookworms 10:30 a.m.; ages 0 to 18 mos. 11:15 a.m.; ages 3 to 6 yrs. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. English/Spanish Bilingual Storytime 11 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 p.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7001. Tuesdays Baby and Me Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 0 to 12 mos. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library-georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Baby and Me 9:30 a.m. Ages 24 mos. and under with parent. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., leander. lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Storytime 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. Tales for Tots 10:30 a.m. Ages 2 and 3 yrs. Lake Travis
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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 512-469-6200. 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. Wednesdays Wobbles Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 2 yrs. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Toddlertime 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. 18 to 36 mos. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/ library or 512-218-7001. Toddler Time 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. 3 yrs. and up. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/ library or 512-218-7001. Pre-K Storytime 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Tot Time Storytime 10:30 a.m. 3 yrs. and up. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-3273045. Baby Storytime 10:30 a.m. 3 to 24 mos. 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 yrs. and up. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3626. 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. Thursdays Wobbles Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 2 yrs. Georgetown Public Library, 420 E. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-9303623. Babytime 9:30 a.m. 12 to 18 mos. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7001. Infant Storytime 10:30 a.m. Birth to 1 yr. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklbrary.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 yrs. and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7001. Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. 18 mos. to 3 yrs. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7001. Story Pals Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 yrs. and up. 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. Crafternoon 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Grades K to 5. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-9900-6375. Fridays Baby and Me 9:30 a.m. 24 mos. and younger with parents. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.lib.tx.us or 512-259-5259. Babytime 9:30 a.m. 12 to 18 mos. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7001. Briarcliff Storytime 10 a.m. All ages. Briarcliff Community Center, 22801 Briarcliff Dr. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Toddler Time 10:30 a.m. Ages 18 to 36 mos. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Rd. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. 18 mos. to 3 yrs. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7001. Children’s Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 0 to 5 yrs. 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 yrs. Wells Branch 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 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 512469-6200.
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Family Storytime 11 a.m. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-37001. 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 512-9893188. Bow Wow Reading Dogs 12 to 1 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary. org or 512-989-3188. Monday 5 and 19 American Girl Book Club 3:30 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Tuesday 6 Children’s Storytime 10 to 10:30 a.m. All ages. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. frenchlegationmuseum.org or 512-472-8180. Monday 12 and 26 Lego Lab 3:30 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Saturday 10 Vietnamese Storytime 11 to 11:30 a.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. All ages. No registration. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
Smart Screen Time This year, KLRU has been airing a new afternoon show focused on mathematics called Odd Squad. It’s a fantastically funny and creative show with something for all ages, including adults. One notable feature of this show is that the characters talk – a lot. They are eager to share what they know, the questions they have about the world around them and the strategies they have for problem-solving. Granted, a show would be pretty boring if the characters never spoke. However, another way of looking at this is that these and other PBS Kids characters are modeling a particular way for children to use talk strategically. Dialogue is absolutely critical in the learning process, and our characters are showing the child audience the many possibilities of engaging others in their ongoing learning. Similarly, the shows demonstrate to adults that our learning culture encourages children to be “smart chatterboxes” and to command the attention of others in their quest to learn about the world. What does this mean for adults? It means that at times, kids will wear you out with their observations, questions and insistence on engaging in conversation. When you absolutely cannot take another word, we encourage you to first congratulate yourself for raising a bright, observant and inquisitive child. Then, congratulate the child for those very same attributes. Then, and only then, can you ask for 60 seconds of peace. Benjamin Kramer, Ph.D., is the director of education for KLRU-TV, Austin PBS. KLRU’s Smart Screen Time™ initiative is an outreach effort encouraging healthy practices in a world full of digital media. To read all articles in this series, visit klrukids.org and click on the Smart Screen Time button.
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PIENSAPOSITIVO Amabilidad
Es bonito cuando una persona es amable, ¿a poco no? El valor de la amabilidad es tan grande que es capaz de cambiar corazones y actitudes negativas. No dejemos que las preocupaciones de la vida nos arranquen la amabilidad de nuestros corazones, luchemos fuertemente para conservarla y así contagiar a los demás. Verás que una sonrisa o un simple “gracias” puede transformar tu ambiente y a las personas. Éste es un pensamiento del filósofo Alemán Arthur Schopenhauer: “La amabilidad es como una almohada que aunque no tenga nada por dentro, por lo menos amortigua los golpes de la vida.” Piensa Positivo.
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Kindness
It is nice to meet a kind person, isn’t it? The value of kindness is so great that it has the ability to change hearts and negative attitudes. Do not let your daily worries in life take away the kindness in your heart, fight for it and share it with others. You will see how a smile or a simple “thank you” can transform your environment and others’. This is a thought from the German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer: “Kindness is like a pillow, which although it has nothing inside, at least cushions the blows of life.” Think Positive.
by Leslie Montoya Host of Despierta Austin
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films by Jack Kyser
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part One Rated PG-13 Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Julianne Moore, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Donald Sutherland, Jeffrey Wright, Stanley Tucci, Elizabeth Banks Austin Family critical rating: HHHH of HHHHH Austin Family family-friendly rating: HHHH of HHHHH As The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part One ends, we see the following onscreen: “In loving memory of Philip Seymour Hoffman.” It’s a lovely tribute to Mr. Hoffman and keeps in spirit with a franchise that has consistently cast some of the best working actors around. Hoffman’s excellent work in Mockingjay – both in Part One and Part Two, which opens later in 2015 – will stand as his final performance. Mockingjay – Part One has a good eye for the manufacturing of political propaganda and how both sides – both the rebels in the various Districts and the leaders at the Capitol – manipulate images and people for their own purposes. The film picks up where its predecessor, Catching Fire, left off, as President Coin (Moore) and Plutarch Heavensbee (Hoffman) aim to convince Katniss Everdeen (Lawrence) to be the face of the rebellion. Meanwhile, Peeta (Josh Hutcherson), separated from Katniss after the fall of the last Hunger Games, is brainwashed by President Snow (Sutherland) to crush the rebels. Perhaps it’s due to the lack of an actual Hunger Games competition in the film, but Mockingjay helped me understand the geography of the districts (and this world in general) better than the previous films. It’s also striking to see how attentive and respectful large audiences are to good drama – not action – when it comes in the context of a beloved book adaptation/ franchise. If only mass audiences would give the same attention and respect to equally involving dramas that seem to be at a disadvantage simply because they don’t occur in a franchise universe. Jack Kyser is a graduate of Austin High School and 2013 graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
Come to the movies at
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humor
by Carrie Taylor
New Year, New Me! Last year my resolution – also known as the thing I wrote down in my journal and forgot about the next day – was to “not worry so much.” Considering that a year later I am consumed on a daily, if not hourly, basis by misgivings about whether I am nursing long enough, whether the baby’s naps are long enough, whether the baby’s poop smells “normal” and whether the baby and I are going to make it to the end of the day, I’d say my resolution failed – miserably. This year will be different, though. I plan on sticking with goals that are realistic, measurable and specific. And this first six months of parenthood has proven to me that there are a few areas that deserve a little extra attention. First, I plan to upgrade my weekly shower to a semi-weekly shower. And I will write a reminder on the mirror so I don’t forget to wear deodorant every day. It’s not that I mind being prompted by random strangers or sharp-eyed cashiers at Target that I have
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“hair gel” on my neck (it was spit-up), but I know my husband will appreciate coming home to a slightly less contaminated version of his wife. Second, I resolve to ensure that the dogs manage to lick the inside of the baby’s mouth no more than once a day. I considered adding that I will pick up the vacuum more than once a month, but who am I kidding? The toddler I’m babysitting is afraid of the noise, and frankly, nothing short of a tornado could carry away the alarming amount of dog hair blanketing my house. Third, I will exercise. Sometime. Because it wouldn’t be New Year’s without a weight-loss goal, right? My friend the scale insists that sweeping isn’t a cardio workout, and living off M&Ms and popcorn can no longer be justified by “I’m breastfeeding.” Carrie Taylor is a native Texan, freelance writer and mother of one precious baby boy.
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