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APRIL 2016
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smart parenting • healthy homes
Serving Austin’s Families Since 1992
Respect
An 11-Year-Old Lemonade Tycoon
Limits
6
Ways to Raise a Super Kid
Are you Raising a Praise Junkie? Special Needs Camp: Questions to Ask ARTÍCULOS EN ESPAÑOL
INSIDE!
CAMP GUIDE • EDUCATION GUIDE • READERS’ POLL BALLOT • CALENDAR
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APRIL 2016
smart parenting • healthy homes
Respect
12
Limits
20
14
A Chance to Shine
A Story of Sweet Success
Raise a Super Kid
columns
calendar
en español
16
26 Asuntos Familiares
18 The Learning Curve
Teacher Gifts: A Welcome Way to Show Your Gratitude
54 Museum Exhibits 54 Family Events 61 Parenting Events 61 Storytimes
22
51 Piensa Positivo
Family Connections
in every issue
Lifelines
Help Your Teen Make Good Decisions About Alcohol
Take Your Computing into “The Cloud”
24 Family Matters
Are You Raising a Praise Junkie?
51
Ten Things… for Humor Month!
52 Remembering My Roots
Children's Day
64 Just for Grins
Don't Get Too Comfortable
follow us
7
Play It Safe
Product recalls
8 Around Austin 63 Kidzone
Grow Your Own Strawberry Plants!
extras 25 Education Guide 28 Summer Camp Guide 52 Readers’ Poll Ballot 62 Focus on Doctors
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Catch Austin Family live on “Good Day Austin” every Friday morning and “Despierta Austin” the first Friday morning of each month.
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Estás Criando a un Adicto a la Alabanza?
50 Recordando Mis Raíces
El Día del Niño
Temor al Cambio?
austinfamily readers’ poll favorites 2016
Readers’ Poll page 52
Where’s Jack?
Our films column has moved online! Find Jack Kyser’s take on films at austinfamily.com/category/films
Cover Shot
Lauren is in 7th grade, loves music and is a super kid. Cover photographed by Nichole Renee
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® BY SHERIDA MOCK
April 2016
A
pril is such a sweet month. Flowers are in full bloom, the air is warm—but not too hot, yet—and everyone is ready to get out and do something. That’s why this month’s issue brings you so many ideas for family fun.
Volume 24, No. 1
PUBLISHER
Kaye K. Lowak
EDITOR
May 1 is Lemonade Day, and to encourage you all (young and old) to make your business dreams a reality, we talked to Mikaila Ulmer, the smart and driven 11-year-old behind Bee Sweet Lemonade. Just like Mikaila’s, perhaps your lemonade stand will be the start of something big. Do you feel the urge to dig your hands in the soil? This month’s KidZone tells you how to grow your own strawberry plants from the seeds of the fruit you eat. And this being Humor Month, we’ve got 10 Things to make you giggle. Of course, we always offer helpful tips for parents, as well. This month, we’ve got tips for positive discipline and suggestions for choosing the perfect special needs camp. Plus, columnist Betty Richardson tells you how to avoid raising a praise junkie. And just for grins, columnist Carrie Taylor shares her thoughts on how parenting is an ever-evolving adventure. Enjoy the sweet gifts of family life, and have a wonderful month!
Sherida Mock: editor2003@austinfamily.com
COPY EDITOR Paula Halloum
ADVISING EDITORS
Dr. Betty Kehl Richardson, Barb Matijevich
CALENDAR EDITOR
Betty Kemper: calendar2003@austinfamily.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sherida Mock, Dr. Betty Richardson, Jack Kyser, Richard Singleton, Jennifer VanBuren, Carrie Taylor, Brenda Schoolfield, Rocio Barbosa and Denise Yearian
TRANSLATION TEAM
Maribel Ruvalcaba, Margo Vogelpohl and Rocio Barbosa
ART DIRECTORS
Layout Designer: Dena Steiner Ad Designer: Jason Suarez nr2003@austinfamily.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Nichole Renee
ADVERTISING SALES
Kaye K. Lowak: kaye2003@austinfamily.com Greg Lowak: greg@austinfamily.com
BUSINESS & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Greg Lowak: greg@austinfamily.com
We are dedicated to serving the Greater Austin area by providing up-to-date information and ideas that promote smart parenting and healthy homes. We promote our clients’ businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images. Austin Family is published monthly by KKKemper Inc. Mail Address: P.O. Box 7559 Round Rock, Texas 78683-7559 Phone Number:
Tel: (512) 733-0038
On the web at:
www.austinfamily.com
Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. Austin Family and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. Austin Family does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. No portion of Austin Family may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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Play it product recalls
safe
Government Recalls Poinsettias, High Chairs and Construction Toys Michaels is recalling about 425,000 artificial poinsettias because mold can be present on the stems and bushes, posing a risk of respiratory or other infections in consumers with compromised immune systems, damaged lungs or an allergy to mold. The recall involves Ashland brand artificial poinsettia flowers sold in single stems and bushes. Affected units were sold at Michaels stores nationwide from October 2015 through November 2015 for about $4 for the stem and $7 for the bush. Consumers should immediately stop using the poinsettia flowers and return them to any Michaels store for a full refund. Nuna Baby Essentials is recalling about 5,600 high chairs because the arm bar can bend or detach during use, posing a fall hazard to children. The recall involves Nuna ZAAZ high chairs. These high chairs look like regular kitchen table chairs and have removable trays, arm bars, footrests, seat pads and harnesses so that they can convert into toddler chairs. Affected units were sold at Albee Baby, Giggle, Magic Bean, Nordstrom and other specialty stores nationwide and online at nuna.eu and wayfair.com and other online retailers from February 2013 through November 2015 for between $250 and $300. Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled high chairs and contact the firm to receive a free new arm bar and instructions on how to replace it. Dollar General is recalling about 27,000 toy trucks because the toy’s remote control can short circuit, causing it to overheat and posing fire and burn hazards. The recall involves a toy excavator and a shovel loader. Affected units were sold at Dollar General stores nationwide and online at dollargeneral.com from July 2015 through December 2015 for about $10. Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy vehicles away from children and contact Dollar General for a full refund. af The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission works to protect the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products.
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G O T O W W W. A U S T I N FA M I LY. C O M F O R W E E K LY U P D AT E S O F A R O U N D A U S T I N N E W S
Must -Do This Month
Texas Water Safety Month Water is a popular way to cool off in Texas, but our state leads the nation in child drownings, with peak incidents happening in May, June and July. Because of these facts, the Texas Legislature has designated April as Water Safety Month in an effort to raise awareness before the swim season begins. Colin's Hope, an organization with community volunteers and strategic partners, works to raise awareness about water safety in an effort to prevent child drownings. Colin’s Hope has these and other tips for your next water-based fun day: 1. Watch all children around water. Drowning is fast and silent. Assign an adult to watch children and learn to recognize a swimmer in trouble. 2. Learn to swim. Never swim alone. 3. Wear a properly fitted life jacket. 4. Install barriers around water sources (pools, spas, hot tubs, etc.) to restrict access when an adult is not present. 5. Be safer in open water. Swim near a lifeguard. Obey warning rules and flags. Learn rip current safety. 6. Learn CPR. Refresh skills yearly. For more information, visit colinshope.org.
Garden Festival The Austin Area Garden Council will hold its 59th annual Garden Festival on April 2 and 3 at the Zilker Botanical Garden. This family-friendly event is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and offers a one-stop, garden shopping destination that includes a flower show, craft beer garden, food court, live music and more.
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Read! April 2 is Children’s Book Day. Shoppers can buy plants at the Garden Festival on April 2 and 3.
The City of Austin will provide information about how to grow sustainable, earth-wise gardens. The Kids’ Corner lets children build a birdhouse, make butterfly wings and masks, enjoy face painting and learn about plants. Admission is $10 for adults (age 13 and older), $4 for children (age 4 to 12) and free for children under age 4. Parking is $5. Admission is half price on Sunday for those arriving on bikes. Visit zilkergarden.org for details.
Autism Society Ride/Run The Autism Society of Central Texas will hold its annual Autism Ride/Run on April 3 at Georgetown High School. Riders can choose a The Autism Society of Central route of 9, 24, Texas holds its Ride/Run on 42 or 68 miles. April 3. The rides begin at staggered times from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. The 5K fun run begins at 9 a.m. A resource fair is open to the public and runs from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The course closes at 2 p.m.
Enjoy some honey on April 22, National Honey Bee Day.
Take your daughter or son to work on April 28.
Registration is $50 for the ride and $25 for the fun run. All riders and runners receive an event t-shirt and lunch. Proceeds will fund the society’s local programs, promote education and awareness and provide access to resources for local families living with autism. For more information, visit austinautismsociety.org.
Hot Science – Cool Talks On April 22, UT Austin's Environmental Science Institute (ESI) will host its next Hot Science – Cool Talks, an event that brings leading scientists and their research to the community. Hot Science – Cool Talks features engaging activities for multiple age groups and professional development opportunities for teachers.
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The next Hot Science – Cool Talks free lecture happens April 22 at UT Austin.
At the talk, Dr. David Hillis, professor of integrative biology, will discuss the politics and science of endangered species. A pre-lecture interactive community science fair will include hands-on activities. Both events happen at Welch Hall on the UT Austin campus from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. All Hot Science – Cool Talks events are free and open to the public. Discounted parking is available at the San Jacinto parking garage. Payment for parking requires cash or credit card. For more information, visit esi.utexas.edu.
Book Launch
School Nutrition Study
Local author Carmen Oliver held a book launch party at BookPeople on March 6 to celebrate her latest work, a children’s picture book titled “Bears Make the Best Reading Buddies.”
Sixteen Austin-area elementary schools will participate in a study with UT Austin researchers, thanks to a $3.85 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. Researchers will use school gardens to learn whether growing fruits and vegetables and learning nutrition and cooking skills can improve health and reduce childhood obesity.
“Before I was a reader, I was first a listener,” says Oliver. “I grew up with a mother and grandmother who were the best reading buddies a girl could ask for. The underlying theme of this book is instilling a love of reading in children, but it’s my hope that young readers will be entertained, first and foremost, by the characters and their beary good Local author Carmen Oliver recently celebrated friendship.”
continued on next page
the launch of her children’s picture book.
Oliver is active in the Austin chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and has served as a judge for Austin Family magazine’s annual Young Writers contest and the Texas Book Festival.
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The project breaks ground on its first school gardens this spring. Jaimie Davis, an associate professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences, is calling the program TX Sprouts. The program will involve 3rd, 4th and 5th graders.
Researchers at UT Austin aim to reduce childhood obesity with school gardens. Photo by Jaimie Davis.
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by the
numbers 60%
Reduction in U.S. honey bee population since 1947 Davis and her team hope to expand on the promising effects seen in an earlier pilot study Davis led at four schools in Los Angeles. The students received 90-minute classes in nutrition, cooking and gardening once a week after school for 12 weeks. “We saw that teaching kids to grow their own food was very impactful,” says Davis. “I hope to see the same effects on a larger scale with TX Sprouts.”
High School Musical Theatre Awards Students from 28 area high schools will find out April 13 who takes home awards in the 3rd annual Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Awards at the Long Center.
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Source: National Research Council Students from Vista Ridge High School display a banner celebrating their 12 nominations for awards.
The event honors outstanding student achievements in 15 categories, ranging from set design and musical direction to acting and production. A panel of judges attended each competing show and chose the 136 nominees, who were announced March 4.
80,000
Peak number of bees in a healthy hive Source: American Beekeeping Federation
$14 billion
Bees’ contribution to U.S. crop production each year Source: American Beekeeping Federation
“It’s always a treat when we can get together to celebrate the arts and the accomplishments of these talented students,” says Brett Barnes, director of development for the Long Center.
perform onstage at the awards ceremony. The event starts at 7:30 p.m. and is open to the public.
The casts of each show nominated for Best Production—over 400 students—will
For tickets and more information, visit thelongcenter.org. af
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BY DENISE YEARIAN Campers at Cand
lelight Ranch wo
rk with horses.
At age 6, Kim Kelly paid her first visit to a special needs residential camp. Kim’s mother, Ruth, says, “My daughter needed to learn to do things on her own, and I needed to let go a little.” It was a positive experience for Kim, who has hearing loss and an orthopedic limitation, and her parents. For kids with special needs, the benefits of attending camp are amplified, says Sandy Cameron, former editor of Camping Magazine. “Traditional camps do a great job mainstreaming special needs children into their programs, but a special needs camp lets them be with other kids who have similar disabilities.” Heidi Haldeen, summer program specialist for Easter Seals, agrees. “At a special needs camp, kids have the same opportunities they have at traditional camps. The only difference is the activities are modified according to the campers’ needs. This gives them a chance to shine.”
The Candlelight Ranch garden is wheelchair
accessible.
That’s what 9-year-old Tiffany Wells found when she attended a special needs camp. During the school year, Tiffany, who has cerebral palsy and asthma, played on a softball team and a community bowling league. But because none of the children she played with had a disability, the competition wasn’t always equal. “Attending a special needs camp allowed Tiffany to compete on more even ground,” says her mother, Linda. The result? “Tiffany saw that she could actually win and come out on top.”
ophy at
n do" philos Campers learn the "ca . mp Texas Lions Ca
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One of the beauties of a special needs camp is that the kids can learn and experience new things with others who have similar disabilities, says Cameron. “It gives them the confidence they need to try new things.”
“One of the best things to be said about camp—any camp—is the opportunity for children to make friends. And for children with special needs, it’s especially important. They find out they are not alone,” says Cameron.
This was the case with Kim Kelly. When she first went to camp, she was afraid of the water. “She cried just getting her face wet,” says her mother. Through the encouragement of the trained staff, Kim slowly edged her way into the water. “By summer's end, she was jumping in the deep end and had received her first American Red Cross swimming certificate.”
When camp is over, what do the children take with them? For some, new skills. For others, new friends. And for many, the fond memory of a break from their normal routine.
While some see summer camp as an outlet for fun and recreation, others use it to continue education, pursue therapy goals and teach life skills. This is accomplished one step at a time. “It may mean being 10 minutes late for breakfast so Timmy can learn to tie his shoes by himself,” says Haldeen.
Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and four grandchildren.
Many campers look forward to returning year after year, says Haldeen. “The minute they drive away, they’re making plans to return next year.” af
What to Ask Before enrolling your child in a camp, visit the facility to make sure it meets your expectations and your child’s needs. Here are a few questions to ask:
•
Is the camp accredited by an organization such as the American Camping Association (acacamps.org) or the National Camp Association (summercamp.org)?
•
Does the camp meet the organization’s standards for kids with special needs, including facility and staffing requirements? What training and experience do the directors and counselors have in working with kids with a need similar to your child’s? Are there other families you can contact for references?
Developing new skills isn’t the only thing kids glean at a special needs camp. They learn about friendships, too. Last year, Tiffany’s cabin mates included a girl with a more severe case of cerebral palsy than Tiffany has. It gave Tiffany the chance to help others. “When we went to the dance, I got to push my new friend around in her chair,” says Tiffany. Camp for All offers a pool with a sloping entrance and special lift for tho “I also got to help her eat.” se wit
•
What is the ratio of counselors to campers? For children with severe disabilities, the ratio should be at least one counselor for every three campers.
•
What are the camp’s health and safety procedures? Is there a registered nurse in residence? Who will administer medication? How close is the nearest hospital? Have emergency arrangements been made with the hospital?
h limited mobility.
•
Is the camp able to accommodate special dietary needs? Who will assist with feeding, toileting or other activities of daily living?
•
How does the camp ensure an inclusive environment if some activities aren’t appropriate for your child? What alternatives are available?
•
What about the camp’s registration fee? (Expense and quality may not go hand-in-hand, because many specialized camps charge only a fraction of actual costs. Ask if there are scholarships available.)
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Respect
Limits
raise a
SUPER KID: how to guide your child with loving consistency
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D
isciplining your child is a critical component to parenting. However, it’s not always easy! By definition, discipline is used to teach children about expectations and guidelines, so it’s important and necessary for parents to take the time and effort to determine the best form of discipline for any given situation. Here are a few tips for providing positive and effective discipline.
1
Remember what you’re trying to teach your child. The primary purpose of discipline—other than protecting your child from danger—is to teach your child how he or she should behave and to teach him or her the difference between right and wrong. Logical consequences should be applied to the behavior. For example, if a child throws crayons on the floor, instruct her to pick them up and play with them appropriately or she won’t be allowed to use them again. In this case, you’re teaching your child that if she doesn’t treat her belongings with care, she won’t be able to enjoy them. This is preferable to disconnecting the consequence from the behavior by sending her to time out or taking away dessert.
2
.Criticize the behavior, not the child. Your child is building her sense of self. If she hears that she is bad, selfish, rude or mean enough times during development, she will believe it and behave accordingly. Instead of: Stop being so selfish and give your sister the toy. Say: I don’t like it when you don’t share your toys with your sister. It isn’t nice, and it keeps her from playing. When redirecting your child, try to use positives rather than negatives. Instead of: Don’t throw your toys! Say: I like it when you play gently with your toys.
3
Praise positive behaviors. Parents often pay more attention to negative or unsafe behaviors than positive ones. But it’s important to praise a child for behaving.
This can be your most powerful discipline tool. Children naturally seek attention from their caregivers, so if they receive positive attention for positive behaviors, there is a higher likelihood they will continue those behaviors. Otherwise, they may misbehave simply to gain your attention.
4
Be consistent. Discipline loses meaning when you don’t follow through with the consequences you set. Thus, it’s important to avoid setting unrealistic consequences that you don’t intend to keep.
We learn how to be adults from the adults who raise us. Ask yourself: What kind of adult do you want your child to be?
Don’t claim you’ll turn the car around and go home if your child doesn’t behave. (You know full well you’re almost at your destination and have no intention of stopping.) Remember: you’re teaching your child that negative actions are followed by a logical, negative consequence.
is not easy, so it’s important to take care of yourself so you can provide consistency for your child. Stress can cause a parent to respond too harshly to negative behaviors or simply ignore the behaviors because they’re too tired and overwhelmed to respond.
Learn the developmental stages of children. Discipline that works at one stage may not work at another. The more you know about normal developmental stages, the better you’ll be able to guide your child and even prevent misbehavior.
Stress and lack of sleep are common among parents, but pay attention to how you are feeling. Discipline should be based on logical consequences to your child’s actions, not how you are feeling that day. If you’re struggling with stress, reach out for help and find ways to take time to meet your own needs.
5
Try to understand what causes your child to act out. For example, adults can moderate their behavior when they’re tired, hungry or bored, but a preschool-aged child can’t. Know what to expect from your child and bring snacks, allow for naps and set up your child for success. If you know your child is hungry, don’t take him with you to the grocery store at that time.
6
Address your stress. Every parent has times when they reach the end of their patience. Being a parent
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We learn how to be adults from the adults who raise us. Ask yourself: What kind of adult do you want your child to be? If you’re ever unsure what to do, remember to think about what your child is learning from your actions. af The Center for Child Protection is a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center and the first stop for children in Travis County who are suspected victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect or have witnessed a violent crime. For more information, visit centerforchildprotection.org.
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BY BRENDA SCHOOLFIELD
M
any parents worry about teen drinking, and rightly so. In the U.S., more than 4,300 teens die each year from drinking alcohol. And teen drinking is shockingly common. (See the box titled, “Drinking Behavior in the Past 30 Days.”)
Although teens often consider themselves to be “just like adults,” they’re not. Their brains are still developing, and heavy alcohol use can cause permanent damage, including problems with reasoning, learning and memory. There are many other consequences, as well. (See the box titled “Consequences of Teen Drinking.”) Alcohol use at an early age can cause a lifetime of alcohol abuse problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “youth who start drinking before age 15 are 6 times more likely to develop alcohol dependence or abuse later in life than those who begin drinking after the age of 21.”
Set an Example. Parents recommend practicing the
behaviors you want your child to imitate. “My wife and I make a point of modeling designated driving. We make sure our son hears our conversations about who will drive if we think we might drink at a party,” says one dad.
Plan Ahead. Another parent recommends making a plan
in case your teen finds herself in a difficult situation. “We told her never to get into the driver’s seat after drinking and never to ride with someone who has been drinking. She knows to call us right away. We will pick her up—no questions asked, at any time.” She also made sure her daughter installed a ride sharing app on her smart phone and practiced using it.
Another strategy is to talk about ways your teen can respond when feeling pressured to drink. “Helping our son come up with a ‘talk track’ has made him feel more confident in handling some of his friends who can be very insistent and may not use the best judgment.”
Because April is prom season and Alcohol Awareness Month, we asked some parents of Austin teens what they were doing to address alcohol use with their children.
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate. Open communication was a common strategy. “Don’t wait until your son is headed out the door to his senior prom to discuss alcohol,” says one mom. “We started having conversations with our son when he was 10. We use real life observations, news stories and TV programs as opportunities.”
Another parent says, “We ask our daughter to talk about what kids her age are doing. I tell her about my experiences as a teen and try to be open and honest.”
Straight Talk Smart Moves:
&
Help Your Teen Make Good Decisions About Alcohol 16
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Lock Up Alcoholic Beverages.
Limiting access to alcoholic beverages is important. One report found that 28 percent of 7th to 12th graders got their alcohol from a home. One parent confides, “We put all the alcohol in a cabinet that locks. It’s always locked when we aren’t home and we carry the keys on our key rings. This isn’t because we think our kids might get into the cabinet. It’s because we want them to be able to tell their friends, ‘My parents lock up their booze.’ In other words, we want to give our kids an easy excuse to make the right decision.”
7. Know your teen’s friends and
8. 9.
their parents. Lock up alcohol at home. Talk to other parents about ways to keep teens safe.
Drinking Behavior in the Past 30 Days Drank Some Alcohol
30%
A very special thanks to the Austin parents who shared their experiences, strategies and thoughts in an effort to help other parents struggling with the same issues. Details were changed to protect privacy. af
Engaged in Binge Drinking
Brenda Schoolfield is a freelance medical writer in Austin.
20%
Rode with a Driver Who’d Been Drinking
20%
Drove After Drinking
10%
Source: cdc.gov. “Youth Risk Behavior Survey.”
Parents can make a positive difference in helping teens make good decisions about alcohol.
1. Communicate the serious
consequences of alcohol use.
2. Look for chances to talk about
alcohol. 3. Set clear expectations of acceptable behaviors. 4. Set examples by your own behavior. 5. Help your teen have a “just in case” plan. 6. Know where your teen is.
Consequences of Teen Drinking Teens who drink are more likely to experience serious consequences, including:
Lifelong effects from changes in brain development Memory problems Problems with normal growth and development Unwanted and unprotected sexual activity Problems at school, such as poor grades Social problems, such as withdrawal from activities Legal problems, such as hurting someone or being arrested Car accidents and other injuries, such as falls and drowning Death from alcohol poisoning Abuse of other drugs
Source: cdc.gov. “Fact Sheets – Underage Drinking.”
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B Y J E N N I F E R VA N B U R E N
TEACHER GIFTS: A WELCOME WAY TO SHOW YOUR GRATITUDE
I
t’s that time of year again: the time to show our appreciation for the professionals who have such a great impact on the growth and development of our kids. Every year comes the question, “What on Earth can I give the teacher?”
The two key words are functional and consumable. Teachers don’t need another apple ornament or “#1 Teacher” mug. Instead, give something they’ll use often or consume.
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PERSONAL TOUCH. It may take a little time and planning, but you can make nearly any gift special with a name or initials. There are many companies both local and online that specialize in customized items, such as pencils and pens that will make it back to the teacher’s desk, key chains and water bottles that won’t get mistaken for someone else’s and classy pens that will be treasured for years. TOTE BAGS. What teacher doesn’t
leave school every day with his or her
hands full? Give them something special for toting books, papers or anything else. For a neat class gift, have the students sign the bag.
OFFICE SUPPLIES. Jazz up run-ofthe-mill paperclips, staplers and sticky notes by choosing ones with fancy designs. Teachers often use their own money for these classroom supplies. JAR OF TREATS. Personalize a glass jar using your DIY skills or ask a local engraver to etch it for you. Fill the jar
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Teacher Appreciation Week is May 2-6 with snacks, and it can be used later to hold other baubles.
LIVING PROOF. Decorate a vase or
flowerpot (or better yet, have your child decorate it) with your teacher’s name and a catchy phrase, such as: “Mrs. Wilson’s class…where minds bloom.” Fill it with flowers or a live plant.
HYDRATION. Your teacher already
their teachers. If not, you could be the parent who proposes to create one. It’ll save you and fellow parents the trouble of guessing.
THE FINAL TOUCH. As with most expressions of appreciation, a personal note is heartfelt and memorable. Your note can accompany a gift or serve as the standalone memento. You could
ask your child to add a drawing, signature or note, as well. Emails are also appreciated and can be a quick way to reach many teachers, if your child is in middle or high school. Be sure to cc the principal, so he or she knows how much your teacher is appreciated! af Jennifer VanBuren is a Georgetown educator and mother of three.
has a thousand coffee mugs. Consider gifting him or her with a metal or glass water bottle.
GIFT CARDS. It’s not as personal, but the number one gift requested by teachers is the simple gift card. To give a special treat, look for a coffee shop near the school, a local bakery or sweet shop. To make it a treat for the teacher’s whole family, go to a local restaurant. Consider buying a gift card from iTunes, Amazon or Barnes and Noble to help cover the costs of classroom apps and instructional materials. CLASS GIFT. Your child’s elementary classroom probably has a class parent. If you don’t know who this is, ask your teacher for the name and contact information. Perhaps a class gift is already in the works. If not, volunteer to take on the task.
ASK. If you’re really pressed for ideas, just ask the teacher. What does the classroom need: books, construction paper, snacks or a pencil sharpener? Where does he or she like to eat? Or the more direct question of, “I want to buy you a gift, what would you like?” Some schools keep a book of wish lists for
Did You Know? The average public school teacher spends $485 of personal funds a year on classroom supplies and instructional materials. Source: National School Supply and Equipment Association, 2013.
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sixth grader
Mikaila Ulmer has already learned more about business in her 11 years than many adults ever learn. Mikaila is the founder, the face and the force behind Bee Sweet Lemonade, a local company she started with a single lemonade stand. She has some advice for other kids— or anyone else—who might also like to start their own business:
go big.
a story of sweet success
by Sherida Mock
af:
af:
What made you decide to start a business?
When I was 4 ½ years old, I got stung by two bees in one week. And my great-granny Helen sent me a 1940s cookbook with her favorite recipe of flaxseed lemonade in it. At the time, I absolutely hated bees. I was really afraid of them. My parents didn’t want me to be so afraid of them, so they encouraged me to do some research. And I found out how incredibly important bees are to our ecosystem. So I decided to create a product that would help save the bees.
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What do you want us to know about bees?
I would like readers to know how incredibly important bees are. Nobody likes bee stings. I’m not a fan of them. But that’s not the only thing that they do. They pollinate over 1 out of every 3 bites we eat. They contribute over 15 billion dollars to the U.S. agricultural economy in one year. They are incredibly important to our ecosystem. Without them, our food supply would collapse. Last year alone, the U.S. lost 40 percent of all the hives. Bees are dying because of a disease called CCD [Colony
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Lemonade Day: May 1st
Teaching kids to start, own and operate their very own business
lemonadeday.org
Collapse Disorder], which scientists think comes from mites or pests in the hives spreading viruses. Or another likely cause of their death is that some farmers are spraying their crops with pesticides. So when a bee pollinates that plant, it can’t figure out where its hive is, and it ends up dying in the field.
af:
What can we do about that?
There’s lots of ways we can help save the bees. We can plant bee-friendly plants with different colors, shapes and sizes and different bloom times. We can also learn as much as we can about the bees and share everything that we’ve learned to spread the awareness. We can also buy local honey, which helps local beekeepers. There have been a couple of floods recently that have carried away thousands of hives. I use Round Rock Honey and Good Flow Honey in my lemonade.
af:
What have you learned about running a business?
You can be sweet and be profitable. You can be a social entrepreneur and help solve a problem while making some money off of your business. If you want to be an entrepreneur, you have to be okay with working hard. I wear a whole lot of hats—marketing, finance, demos and workshops. Inspiration comes from many places. Keep your eyes open. And you need to find a business that you have a passion for and that you think is fun.
af:
What are your favorite experiences as an entrepreneur?
One highlight was being on Shark Tank and actually closing a deal. Last summer, I was invited to the White House, and I got to have lunch with the President and Michelle Obama. That was amazing. Another big highlight is teaching workshops. I get to collaborate with kids and families, teaching them about how to become an entrepreneur, why entrepreneurs are very important and the importance of bees.
af:
What do you like to do in your down time?
baby chicks. I got an Xbox for Christmas, and I like to dance to that. I really like to garden. And I love to read. My favorite series is The Books of Elsewhere by Jacqueline West. I’ve read the whole series. It’s amazing. I’m a really big fan of Matilda. I saw the movie, I saw the Broadway show and I’ve read the book about five times.
af:
Lemonade Day is coming up May 1. Any advice?
I got started with Lemonade Day. My first piece of advice is that you need to know your numbers. Know what profit is. Create a budget. Estimate your income. That’s why I love Lemonade Day: it teaches you all those really important things. Another thing is, if you like it, why don’t you go big? You don’t have to stay with one lemonade stand. Take me, for example. I did a lemonade stand for three years, and I kept on selling out. I would make double the lemonade, and keep on selling out. Then I got into my first pizza store, and that’s how I started going big. The owners of East Side Pies came to my first Lemonade Day ever. Then we didn’t see them for a couple of years, and we went into East Side Pies to order pizza. We had no idea that the people who owned the shop were the people who had visited my stand, but they said, “Oh, my goodness. You’re the lemonade girl. We loved your lemonade.” They said that if we could put it in bottles, they would carry my lemonade. af
inspiration
comes from many places. Keep your
eyes open.
I’m a chicken mama, so I take care of my chickens and my Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
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BY RICHARD SINGLETON
FEAR OF FLYING:
TAKE YOUR COMPUTING INTO
“THE CLOUD”
I hate flying. It terrifies me. I know it’s safe. I know it’s fast. But, I also know I’m the kind of person that gutturally moans, “If God would’ve wanted us to fly, he would’ve made us with wings.” It’s a defense mechanism. It’s my way of refusing to admit that my sweaty palms, racing heart and arrhythmic panting is a bit of a problem for a relatively intelligent, 21st century human being.
S
oaring through the air at 600 miles per hour and 35,000 feet off the ground just doesn’t give me “the feels” like a wonderful meal or a relaxing hike. Thankfully, my business isn’t an “Up in the Air” type of experience. Otherwise, I’d have to offer my resignation and start Googling for gigs that are perfectly suited for—what’s the technical term? Oh, yes—fraidy cats. It seems being up in the clouds is where it’s at these days, though. We’re a jet-setting society. As I write this, for the first time in half a decade I’m flying the friendly skies tomorrow. Somehow I think my airline’s slogan, “If it matters to you, it matters to us,” just isn’t going to be that accurate for me. If it really mattered to them, like it matters to me, instead of blasting down the runway and zooming off into the air, they’d just drive the plane to Florida instead. So what does all this have to do with the price of tea in China?
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Two things. One, it’s a bit of pre-flight therapy. Two, it’s demonstrating the irrational fears that we have about taking our business to the clouds, or in this case, of taking our business to “the cloud.” Many have a similar white-knuckle experience as me. Not while they’re boarding a plane to soar into the clouds, but when they’re logging onto their computers to start storing things in the cloud. This is especially true this month, as taxes are increasingly connected with cloud-based services. No matter if you have your taxes done for you, if you buy the old-school do-it-yourself software or if you go directly through a cloud-based system, your data is likely connected to the cloud to some degree. Is it safe? Is it secure? Am I going to plunge 5 miles to my death…oops…wrong fear, sorry about that. Your questions are valid.
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Let’s explore. The answer, of course, is that it depends. Having very personal data zipping around the world masked as a colony of zeros and ones is inherently a worthy safety issue to contemplate. But, like other irrational fears, most of what we dread is more about a myth that we’ve mangled in our minds than a reality. To ensure that you are being completely safe with your cloud-based computing, these practical suggestions are vital. And all the more vital during tax season. Don’t hesitate to use a cloud based tax service, but do so in wise ways.
Having very personal data zipping around the world masked as a colony of zeros and ones is inherently a worthy safety issue to contemplate. But, like other irrational fears, most of what we dread is more about a myth that we’ve mangled in our minds than a reality.
Utilize good password protocols. It’s a pain, but it’s a powerful protective force to use unique and “strong” passwords for all of your various cloud-based services. Be careful about online “surveys” that purport to be testing your intelligence or evaluating your personality. We sometimes overshare during these games, offering hackers huge clues to our passwords and security questions that we’d never so willingly share if asked about them directly. Double the size of your protective defenses. Using “two factor” authentication is a proven way to stymie would-be identity thieves. Do we really have to say this in the 21st century? Back up your data, early and often. Make a physical backup of your cloud-based data. Store at least 1 backup in a supremely safe place, like a safe-deposit box. Loose lips do more than sink ships. Don’t share your login information with anyone: verbally, electronically or in practice by logging into cloud services from unsecure computers or over unsecure Wi-Fi networks. Trying to recover from a breach in security is a messy business. Best do it right the first time.
So, “come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away.” That’s the song we’re singing this month. Cloud computing is safe. It’s not fail-proof, but with precautions and wise practices, you can join the modern age with assurance, enjoying all the freedom, efficiency and practicality that comes with being up in the cloud. af Richard Singleton, MACE, MAMFC, LPC, is the executive director at STARRY in Round Rock.
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BY BETTY RICHARDSON
My wife and I have two small children, ages 2 and 4. All my wife’s attention is focused on letting them know they are special. She praises them for every little thing, but she is critical of how I do things. Am I awful to want my wife to tell me “Good job” once in a while?
You aren’t awful for wanting praise from your wife. However, your wife’s conduct with your children might be creating what Alfie Kohn refers to as “praise junkies.” Kohn’s article, “5 Reasons to Stop Saying Good Job,” suggests that too much parental praise encourages children to look to others for approval instead of developing self-awareness of their feelings and accomplishments. You might suggest to your wife that you both read Kohn’s article (bit.ly/1wKz5fg). While you could “blow off” your wife’s criticisms and seek your praise elsewhere—such as at work—that won’t make your home life better. Find a time when you can sit down with your wife and let her know that the criticism is hurting you. Perhaps your wife needs to hear praise as much as you do. You could share with her some of the following suggestions for praise that tend to build self-esteem, self-confidence and self-awareness:
1.
Tell positive, praising stories about each other and the children to friends and relatives. Who doesn’t enjoy hearing or overhearing someone they love tell about something special or good they did? Create the story that you are in a family of “winners” who are amazing, and the story will become reality.
2.
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When someone accomplishes a new task or does a good deed, instead of saying “Good job,” ask, “How did you feel after you accomplished that?” One object is to get the person to recognize they had feelings April 2016 l austinfamily.com
of pride or accomplishment for their extra effort or good decisions.
3. Recognize criticism and try to find one or two good things to say to offset the criticism. Ask yourself where your criticism is coming from. Is lack of sleep, trying to do too much or a physical ailment bringing out your negativity? Have you gotten into the habit of being critical?
4. Acknowledge what you like about how a child or adult
did something, rather than saying a generic, “Good job.” Maybe you like the creative way they approached a problem or the enthusiasm they had for a task.
5. Say “Thank you.” When you say, “Thank you for helping
me with that task or chore,” it lets the other person know they are appreciated, which is a form of praise.
6. Use “I need you to…” statements rather than “You
never….” Example: “I need you to help clear the table after dinner. It helps me, but it also sets a good example for the children to help with chores.”
As parents, you and your wife have a lot on your plate. Every minute seems full of things to do. It’s easy to slip into using words that hurt rather than praise. Freud said it well: “Choose your words wisely, because with them you can send [one] to the depths of despair or to the heights of ecstasy.” af Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., is an Austin-based psychotherapist who specializes in dealing with the problems of children, adolescents and parents.
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2015-2016
Education Guide Private and Charter Schools
Ace Academy 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin www.austingifted.org 512-206-4070 Austin International School 4001 Adelphi Ln., Austin www.austininternationalschool.org 512-331-7806 Cathedral School of Saint Mary’s 910 San Jacinto, Austin www.smcschoolaustin.org 512-476-1480 Challenger School 15101 Avery Ranch Rd., Austin www.challengerschool.com 512-341-8000 1521 Joyce Ln., Round Rock 512-255-8844 13015 Pond Springs Rd., Austin 512-258-1299 Fine Arts Academy 2110 White Horse Tr., Austin www.dancediscovery.com 512-419-7611 10526 Parmer Ln., Austin 512-658-2996 Harmony School of Excellence 2100 E. St. Elmo Rd., Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-693-0000 Harmony School of Innovation 2124 E. St.Elmo Rd., Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-300-0895 Harmony School of Political 13475 FM 620, Austin Science & Communications www.hsaaustin.org 512-284-9880 Harmony School of Science 11800 Stonehollow Dr. Ste. 100, Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-821-1700 Harmony Science Academy 930 E Rundberg Ln., Austin www.hsaaustin.org 512-835-7900 Harmony Science Academy North Austin 1421 Wells Branch Pkwy. W. E200, Pflugerville www.hsaaustin.org 512-251-5000 Holy Family Catholic School 9400 Neenah Ave., Austin www.holyfamilycs.org 512-246-4455 Hyde Park Schools 3901 Speedway, Austin www.hp-schools.org 512-465-8344 11400 N. MoPac Expwy., Austin 512-465-8333 International School of Texas 4402 Hudson Bend, Austin www.internationalschooloftexas.com 512-351-3403 Jardin De Ninos Interlingua 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin www.austinbilingualschool.com 512-432-5317 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 512-299-5732 107 R.R. 620, Ste. 300, Lakeway 512-466-2409 Magellan School 7938 Great Northern Blvd., Austin www.magellanschoolatx.org 512-782-2327 Magnolia School 2903 RR 620 N., Austin www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com 512-266-9620 San Juan Diego Catholic School 800 Herndon Ln., Austin www.sjdchs.org 512-804-1935 St. Andrews School 5901 Southwest Pkwy., Austin www.sasaustin.org 512-299-9700 St. Austin Catholic School 1911 San Antonio St., Austin www.staustinschool.org 512-477-3751 St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School 9300 Neenah Ave., Austin www.saviochs.org 512-388-8846 St. Francis School 300 E. Huntland Dr., Austin www.stfrancis-school.org 512-454-0848 St. Gabriel’s Catholic School 2500 Wimberly Ln., Austin www.sgs-austin.org 512-327-7755 St. Helens Catholic School 2700 E. University Ave., Georgetown www.shclions.org 512-869-3244 St. Ignatius, Martyr Catholic School 120 W. Oltorf, Austin www.st-ignatius.org/school 512-442-8547 St. Louis Catholic School 2114 St. Joseph, Austin www.slcsaustin.org 512-614-6622 x245 St. Mary’s Catholic School 520 Washburn St., Taylor www.stmarystaylor.org 512-352-2313 St. Paul Lutheran School 3407 Red River St., Austin www.splaustin.org 512-472-3313 St. Stephen’s School 6000 FM 3237, Wimberly www.ststeveschool.org 512-847-9857 St. Theresa’s Catholic School 4311 Small Dr., Austin www.st-theresa.org 512-451-7105 Santa Cruz Catholic School 1110 Main St., Buda www.sccstx.org 512-312-2137
PreK-12th PreK-5th PreK-8th PreK-8th 3rd-5th 6th-12th K-5th K-12th K-5th K-8th 6th-12th PreK--8th K, 4th-8th 9th-12th 2-14 yrs Inf-3rd PreK-7th 3-13 yrs. Indi. Instr. 9th-12th 1st-12th PreK-8th 9th-12th PreK-8th JrK-8th PreK-8th PreK-8th PreK-8th PreK-8th 18 mos - 8th PreK-6th PreK-8th PreK-8th
Montessori/Preschools/Kindergarten Country Home Learning Center Extend-A-Care For Kids Froggin Learning Center Kiddie Academy of Cedar Park Kiddie Academy of Pflugerville Little Hands International Preschool Rainbow Station Spicewood Country School Stepping Stone Schools
1310 US Hwy 183 North, Austin www.countryhomelearningcenter.com 512-331-1442 Inf-13yrs 6900 Escarpment Blvd., Austin 512-288-8220 77 area campuses www.eackids.org 512-472-9402 Inf- PreK AfterSch Corner of 360 and 2222, Austin www.frogginlearning.com 512-345-3764 1-10yrs 1602 Medical Pkwy., Cedar Park www.kiddieacademy.com/austin 512-920-3028 6 wks-12 yrs 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville www.kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville 512-270-9988 6wks-12yrs 3620 Hillside Dr., Round Rock www.littlehandsips.com 512-572-1888 18 mos to 5 yrs 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Cedar Park www.rainbowstationaustin.org 512-260-9700 Inf-12yrs 6102 Spicewood Springs Rd., Austin www.spicewoodcountry.com 512-346-2992 Inf-K 19 Locations throughout Austin Metro www.steppingstoneschool.com 512-459-0258 Inf-K
Resources Austin Learning Center 3355 Bee Cave Rd., #203, Austin www.austinlearningcenter.com 512-330-9007 Tutoring, SAT/ACT, coaching, mentoring Extra Credit 8820 Business Park #300, Austin www.extracreditaustin.com 512-689-0236 Medical and educational occupation therapy Reversing Dyslexia 1780 Round Rock Ave. #200, Round Rock www.drphyllisbrooks.com 512-331-0668 Dyslexia
College Credit Austin Community College Locations in Austin Metro Area www.austincc.edu/startnow
Earn College Credit in High School
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BY BETTY RICHARDSON
Mi esposa y yo tenemos dos niños pequeños, de 2 y 4 años de edad. Toda la atención de mi esposa está enfocada en dejarles saber que son especiales. Les elogia por cada pequeña cosa, pero critica la forma en que hago las cosas. ¿Soy una persona terrible al querer que mi esposa me diga “buen trabajo” de vez en cuando?
Usted no es una persona terrible por querer elogios de su esposa. Sin embargo, la conducta de su esposa con sus hijos podría ser la creación de lo que Alfie Kohn se refiere como “adictos a los elogios”. El artículo de Kohn “5 razones para dejar de decir buen trabajo” sugiere que el exceso de elogios de los padres alienta a los niños a buscar en los demás su aprobación en lugar de desarrollar la auto-conciencia de sus sentimientos y logros. Usted podría sugerirle a su esposa que ambos lean el artículo de Kohn (bit.ly/1wKz5fg). Mientras que usted podría “ignorar” las críticas de su esposa y buscar los elogios en otra parte—por ejemplo en su trabajo—que no hará su vida en casa mejor. ¿Por qué no encuentra un momento en el que usted puede sentarse con su esposa y hágale saber que la crítica lo lastima? Tal vez su esposa necesita escuchar elogios tanto como usted. Podría compartir con ella algunas de las siguientes sugerencias para los elogios que tienden fomentar la autoestima, la autoconfianza y la conciencia de sí mismo:
1.
2.
26
Cuente historias positivas, elogiando a los niños y el uno al otro, a los amigos y parientes. ¿Quién no disfruta escuchar u oír por casualidad a alguien hablar sobre algo especial o bueno que hicieron? Crear una historia que están en una familia de “ganadores” que son increíbles, y la historia se convertirá en realidad.
Cuando alguien lleva a cabo una nueva tarea o hace una buena acción, en lugar de decir “buen trabajo”, pregunte, “¿Cómo te sientes después de haber logrado esto?” Uno de los objetivos es conseguir que la persona reconozca que tenía sentimientos de orgullo o logro por su esfuerzo extra o buena decisión. April 2016 l austinfamily.com
3. Reconozca la crítica y trate de encontrar una o dos cosas
buenas que decir para contrarrestar las críticas. Pregúntese a sí mismo de donde viene su crítica. ¿Es la falta de su eño, el tratar de hacer demasiado o una dolencia física lo que provoca su negatividad? ¿Ha caído en el hábito de ser crítico?
4. Reconozca lo que le gusta de cómo un niño o un adulto hizo
algo, en lugar de decir enérgicamente “buen trabajo”. Tal vez le gusto la forma creativa que abordaron un problema o el entusiasmo que tuvieron al hacer una tarea.
5. Diga “Gracias”. Cuando usted dice, “Gracias por ayudarme
con la tarea o el trabajo”, le deja saber a la otra persona que son apreciados, lo cual es una forma de elogio.
6. Use declaraciones como “Necesito que…” en lugar de “Tu
nunca….” Ejemplo: “Necesito que me ayudes a recoger la mesa después de la cena. Me ayuda, pero también es un buen ejemplo para que los niños ayuden con las tareas de la casa.”
Como padres, usted y su esposa tiene mucho en su plato. Cada minuto parece estar lleno de cosas que hacer. Es fácil en los momentos cuando están más ocupados de deslizarse en el uso de palabras que lastiman en lugar de elogiar o ayudar a su cónyuge. Freud lo dijo muy bien: “Elija sus palabras con prudencia, ya que con ellas se puede enviar [a uno] a las profundidades de la desesperación o a las alturas del éxtasis.” af Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., es una psicoterapeuta situada en Austin que se especializa en el tratamiento de los problemas de los niños, adolescentes y padres.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE DAY CAMPS Page 28 • OVERNIGHT CAMPS Page 47 • SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS Page 49
This month’s Camp Guide sponsored by: YMCA of Austin austinymca.org YMCA of Greater Williamson County ymcagwc.org
day camps 14th Annual Austin Film Festival Summer Camp 512-478-4795 www.austinfilmfestival.com Ages 9 - 18 Rocking workshops that promise to teach, inspire, and help kids and young adults create their very own fabulous, funny, thought-provoking, heartbreaking, award-winning (you never know!) short films.
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4Reelz School of Film Round Rock 512-640-3831 www.4reelzschooloffilm.com Ages 6 - 17 Half day and full day camps for kids including acting, filmmaking, costume & makeup design, lego stop-motion, movie science FX and comic book creation. “We learn by Doing!”
Adderley Musical Theatre Summer Camp 512-987-0190 Downtown @The Integrity Academy Barton Creek @ St. Michael’s Academy
Customize your Camp Guide search at austinfamily.com Four Points @ The Oasis www.theadderleyschool.com Ages 3 - 18 Students participate in one, two or three-week age-appropriate singing, acting and dance camps, culminating in a final abridged version of a Broadway show.
American Robotics Austin Metro Area 512-844-2724 www.RoboticsAcademy.com Ages 6-12, 13-17 At American Robotics Academy students learn how to design, build and test remote-controlled miniature
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robots. We use simple, motorized machines – all made from LEGO® bricks! – to demonstrate mechanical movements and other effects.
Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Youth Storytelling and Teen Leadership Camps 8401 Cameron Road, Austin 512-974-1700 www.austintexas.gov/aarc Ages Youth camps, 5 - 10, Teen camps, 13 - 17. Theater, music, puppetry and other storytelling traditions through an Asian and Asian American lens. Financial aid available. M - F, 9am - 5pm, 1- and 2-week sessions, $150-$300.
512-251-7500 www.austinsportsarena.com/camps Ages 5 – 14 Campers have the option of enjoying either a full or half day of jam-packed activities designed for kids at any skill level.
Badgerdog Creative Writing Summer Camp Several locations throughout Austin 512-542-0076 www.austinlibrary.org Ages 3rd – 12th grade
Led by professional writers, campers discover and practice the arts of poetry and storytelling in a low-pressure, fun environment and become published authors.
BAM Summer Camp 4401 Freidrich Ln., Ste. 400, Austin 8222 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. F54, Austin www.thebamacademy.com 830-377-1897 Age 6 -17yrs Your kids will not only have fun but learn the safety behind getting over, getting down and getting up
ATA Martial Arts Northwest Austin, Cedar Park and Round Rock 512-402-6461, 512-786-2387, 512-310-0131 www.barrettsata.com, www.roundrockata.com Ages 3 and up We provide our students a strong foundation in essential character qualities such as courtesy, respect and discipline. In addition, our programs are designed to improve motor skills and enhance a student’s ability to pay attention and follow directions.
Austin Dog Alliance 1321 W. New Hope Drive, Cedar Park 512-335-7100 www.austindogalliance.org Ages 5 - 15 Camp activities include learning dog training, tricks, agility and other dog sports. Campers learn about dog health, breeds, body language and more. Craft activities include making dog cookies and dog toys.
Austin Girls Choir Austin 512-453-0884 www.girlschoir.com Ages 8 – 16 Austin Girls Choir camps include instruction on vocal skills, note reading, basic harmony and fun songs, with simple choreography.
Austin International School, Run, Jump, Splash 4001 Adelphi Road, Austin 512-331-7806 www.austininternationalschool.org Ages 3 - 6 Our campers will explore other cultures and languages while staying active and filling their days with creativity, activity and motion.
Austin Nature and Science Center 2389 Stratford Drive, Austin 512-974-3880 www.austintexas.gov/ansc Ages 4 - 13 ANSC offers various extraordinary summer camp programs to groups of children in an environmental education-based curriculum. From nature studying, hiking and crafts to caving and stone tool making in older classes.
Austin Sports Arena Ultimate Indoor Sports Camp 3918 Gattis School Rd., Round Rock
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE obstacles, with some acrobatic skills and awesome parkour games and challenges thrown in.
Band Aid Music Camp South Austin and Westlake/Riverbend 512-730-0592 www.bandaidschoolofmusic.com Ages 4 - 18 Rock band, rock star, piano, drum, guitar and vocal camps. We have the strongest rock band program in Texas.
The Baron’s Men - Summer Youth Workshop The Curtain Theatre 7400 Coldwater Canyon Dr., Austin www.thebaronsmen.org, workshop@thebaronsmen.org Ages 9 - 14, July 11 - 16 Ages 15 - 18, July 18 - 23 Students will have an opportunity to experience the world of William Shakespeare and the Elizabethan stagecraft tradition that the Baron’s Men is so wellknown for.
Bear Creek Stables 13017 Bob Johnson Ln., Manchaca 512-282-0250 www.bearcreekstables.com Ages 7 – 16 Because horses are fascinating, a horse camp is one of the best sources of growth, self-confidence and fun available to a young person.
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Bits, Bytes & Bots Computer Adventures Various locations 512-415-4120 www.austintx.bitsbytesbots.com Ages 6 – 14 Offering fun and educational week-long, half-day technology camps in game creation, moviemaking, robotics, Scratch programming, Kodu Game Lab programming and Minecraft®. Low student to instructor ratio.
Blazer Tag 1701 W. Ben White Blvd., Austin 512-462-0202 www.blazertag.com Ages 7 and up Bring in your camp or field trip to Blazer Tag for some out-of-this-world fun!
Boost Writing Camp by Extra Credit! LLC 8820 Business Park Dr. #300, Austin 512-689-0236 www.extracreditaustin.com Ages 4 – 6 Spring break and summer options, pending interest and availability. For foundations to better handwriting. Pre-screening required. Details online.
Brandy Perryman Shooting Camp Locations throughout Austin 512-799-8891 www.bperrymanshootingcamp.com Ages 7 - 16
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BPSC is a 4-day shooting intense basketball camp mirrored after all the camps Perryman attended and enjoyed the most as a kid.
Bricks 4 Kidz ATX Multiple greater Austin locations 512-270-9003 www.bricks4kidz.com/atx Ages 5 – 13 Build LEGO® models that move! Our themed enrichment camps feature motorized building, crafts, games and creative building time. Campers take home LEGO® mini-figures or accessory packs.
"Building Leaders:Discover your profession!" Spanish Immersion Summer Camp Froggin Learning Center, 6203 N. Capital of Tx Hwy. Ste. 400, Austin 512-345-3764 www.froggin.com Ages 4 - 12 Camp begins June 6. Each week explore different fields, including the people, places, and their professions. Weekly themes: city, sports, art, construction, science, space and ocean.
Cafe Monet Summer Art Westgate, Triangle and San Marcos 512-892-3200, 512-906-2200, 512-805-2800 www.cafemonet.org Ages 6 and up Hands-on lesson in creativity. Paint pottery, fuse glass or spruce it up on a wood plaque.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Camp Abrakadoodle – Kids with Imagination
Camp De Champs at Chaparral Ice Center
Leander, Round Rock, Georgetown 512-337-7017 www.abrakadoodle.com/tx-austin Ages 3 - 12 Art camps are fun-filled, action packed events. Camp themes include bugs, pirates, superheroes, princesses, circus and zoo animals plus many, many more.
2525 W. Anderson Ln. #400, Austin 512-252-8500 x 160 www.chaparralice.com Ages 6 - 13 Camp De Champs offers 11 weeks of figure skating and hockey skating instruction. Kids receive two lessons daily, as well as public skating time, off-ice training, goal setting, arts and crafts and a new, optional performance recital on Thursday evening of each week.
Camp Adventure by Kiddie Academy 1602 Medical Pkwy., Cedar Park 512-986-7355 www.kiddieacademy.com/cedarpark Ages preschool – school age At Kiddie Academy, we aim to make your child’s summer as educational as it is fun. Our Camp Adventure program and curriculum do exactly that, through themed events, activities and trips. Your child’s ordinary summer vacation is transformed into a fun and strong foundation for the future!
Camp Avalanche at Chaparral Ice Center 2525 W. Anderson Ln. #400, Austin 512-252-8500 x 160 www.chaparralice.com Ages 7 - 14 Our campers fill their days swimming, going to the park, going on field trips, doing arts and crafts and—of course—ice skating!
Camp Doublecreek 800 Doublecreek Dr., Round Rock 512-255-3661 www.campdoublecreek.com Ages 4 – 14 Camp Doublecreek is Austin/Round Rock’s Best Day Camp for 45+ years. It is an activity-based camp with free transportation from 12 different locations.
Camp Jump! 2919 Manchaca Rd. and 2117 Anderson Ln. www.jump-austin.com 512-593-6226 Ages 3 - 10 Voted Austin Family Magazine’s Most Fun Camp in 2011, 2014, 2015. Dynamic, theme-based gymnastics, games, activities and arts and crafts keep kids coming back.
Camp on the Move 512-658-628 www.camponthemove.com
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Ages 7 - 14 A field-trip based day camp, a new trip each day. Schlitterbahn twice a week. Come join the fun.
Awesome field trips, organized sports, wonderful environment.
Camp Switch Willo 4829 Switch Willo, Austin 512-920-0554 www.campswitchwillo.com Ages 5 - 15 We strive to instill in each child an appreciation for horses and the sport of riding. We educate riders in a relaxed, supportive learning environment, with an emphasis on safety.
3810 Gattis School Rd. #108, Round Rock 816 S. Main St., Georgetown 512-275-4040 www.cordovanartschool.com Ages 5 - 16 Experience the best art camps in the greater Austin area! Traditional, technical skills mixed with lots of fun! Ceramics, clay, drawing, painting, animals and more.
Central Texas Writing Camp
Country Home Learning Center
Texas State University San Marcos and Round Rock 512-245-3680 Ages 6 - 18 Our camp will inspire creative writing, thinking and explore various writing styles. Campers will meet new friends.
6900 Escarpment Blvd., Austin 512-288-8220 13120 U.S. Hwy. 183 N., Austin 512-331-1441 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Ages 5 - 13 Children must have finished grade K to attend our summer camp program and field trips. (All ages, starting at 6 weeks, accepted for our year round program.) Join us for an incredible summer camp experience, featuring child approved special events, exciting weekly field trips and kids’ choice special interest clubs.
Challenger School Avery Ranch, Pond Springs and Round Rock 512-341-8000, 512-258-1299, 512-255-8844 www.challengerschool.com Ages PreK - 8th grade Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Results are unmatched.
Club Z Summer Camp Round Rock, Austin, Cedar Park 512-219-0700 www.zsclubhouse.com Ages 5 - 12
Cordovan Art School
Dance Discovery Central Austin and Avery Ranch 512-419-7611, 512-658-2996 www.dancediscovery.com www.averyranchdance.com Ages 3 - 14
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Various themed camps include story time ballet, jazz, hip hop, gymnastics, yoga, arts and crafts and musical theatre. Each camp ends with a great show!
Digital Media Academy University of Texas at Austin 866-656-3342 https://www.digitalmediaacademy.org Ages 6 - 17 From game design to app development, animation to photography, filmmaking to music production, and everything in between, students have the opportunity to tackle today's coolest tech topics!
Esoteric Farm 15 minutes north of downtown Austin 512-272-4301 www.esotericfarm.com Ages 5 - 16 Daily horse-related games and activities and an indoor horse arena. Fun, active and affordable!
Extend-A-Care for Kids Summer Day Camp Locations in AISD, DVISD and HCISD 512-472-9402 www.eackids.org Ages 3 - 12 Weekly sessions consisting of sports, field trips, swimming, cooking, games and puzzles, reading, arts and crafts and more. Weekly themes are based on children’s literature.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Fantastic Magic Camp Locations throughout Austin 512-850-4677 www.magiccamp.com Ages 5 - 12 Kids discover their unique inner magic through learning magic tricks. Campers are surrounded by people, both young and old, who recognize and embrace that uniqueness.
Fun 2 Learn Code Austin and Round Rock (see website for additional locations) 512-900-8380 www.fun2learncode.com Ages 7 and up Half- and full-day computer programming camps, including Minecraft mods in Java, Scratch programming, Python, game design, web development, robotics, circuits and stop motion animation.
Game Worlds 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd., Austin 512-609-0052 www.gameworldscamp.com Ages 10 - 18 At Game Worlds, kids learn from real-world developers how to make their very own video games! Students work in teams to create their own game!
Girls Empowerment Network, campGEN 4001 Speedway, Austin 512-808-4044 ext 106 www.girlsempowermentnetwork.org
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Ages 4 - 8th grade girls Girls participate in fun, interactive workshops during weeklong sessions that are designed to help them feel more confident as they navigate girlhood. Girls will gain new skills, new friendships and a new sense of self!
Girlstart Summer Camp 1400 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 512-916-4775 www.girlstart.org Rising 4th - 8th grades Girlstart summer camp allows girls to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in a fun, informal environment and equips them with STEM skills they will use for life. Girlstart’s camp provides unique experiences that develop a strong conceptual understanding of STEM subjects and increases participants’ interest in STEM activities and careers.
Handwriting Club by Extra Credit! LLC 8820 Business Park Dr. #300, Austin 512-689-0236 www.extracreditaustin.com Ages 5 - 9 Summer class options, pending interest and availability. For better handwriting. Pre-screening required. Details online.
Heartsong 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 512-371-9506
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE www.heartsongmusic.net Ages up to 9 Join us spring and summer for our Music Together classes for children and their caregivers.
Hill Country Science Mill Austin and Johnson City (see website for locations) 844-263-6405 www.sciencemill.org Ages 4th - 8th grade Explore the exciting world of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) through our award-winning camps; including 3D printing, robotics and more! Special Austin camp available!
Hyde Park Kids Kamp Hyde Park Campus, Austin 512-465-8344 www.hpbc.org/kamp Ages Completed 1st - 5th grade Children explore their creativity in music, art, drama, movement and more.
iD Tech Camps @ UT and St. Edwards UT Austin, St. Edwards University and more 888-709-8324 www.idtech.com Ages 7 - 17 Inspired by tech-savvy instructors, students code apps, design video games, mod with Minecraft, engineer robots, build websites, produce movies and more.
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iFLY Austin Summer Camp 13265 N. Hwy 183 Suite A, Austin 512-774-4359 www.iflyworld.com/austin Ages 6-16 1st Session - 6/6 - 6/11, 2nd Session - 7/18 - 7/23, 8 a.m. - noon $599.95. Learn to FLY and explore the technology behind indoor skydiving! Ten minutes with personalized coaching Tuesday - Thursday. five minute Saturday showcase w/ catered breakfast, personalized camp certificates, daily snacks and celebratory treats.
Kiddie Academy’s Camp Adventure 2617 Kelly Ln., Pflugerville 512-989-7777 www.kiddieacademy.com/pflugerville Ages preschool – 12 years We aim to make your child’s summer as educational as it is fun. Our Camp Adventure program and curriculum do exactly that, through themed events, activities and trips. With Camp Adventure, your child’s ordinary summer vacation is transformed into a fun and strong foundation for the future!
KidsActing Locations throughout Austin metro 512-836-5437 www.kidsactingstudio.com Ages 3 - 19 Unleash your creativity this summer.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Kids with Pens Georgetown, Westlake, Central Austin, Wimberly www.kidswithpens.org Ages 9 - 17 Each day includes innovative and inspiring writing prompts and lessons on the fundamentals of storytelling. We laugh, shout, play games and move our bodies. And then we write about it.
Learning Fun101 Locations throughout Austin metro 512-740-3024 www.learningfun101.com Ages 1st – 5th grades Want your child to do something unique and absolutely cool this summer? How about having them learn to build and design robots using the LEGOŽ bricks?
Mad Science Locations throughout Austin metro 512-892-1143 www.austin.madscience.org Ages 4 - 12 Mad Science camps are filled with exciting, fun, hands-on science activities. Children become junior scientists for the week and experience a variety of science adventures.
Main Event FUN Camps 2016 13301 N. Hwy 183, Austin www.mainevent.com 512-401-0000 Ages All
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Bowling, video games, laser tag, lunch, camp t-shirt and more!
Max Taekwondo & Yoga 6929 Airport Blvd., Austin 512-371-8989 www.maxtkdyoga.com Ages 6 - 14 Camp is going to be packed with martial arts and Legos...yes Legos. Campers have the choice to train with the Hyper Weapons Camp, or to use their imagination with Legos.
McKinney Roughs Nature Camp 1884 SH 71 West, Cedar Creek 512-303-5073 www.lcra.org/naturecamp Ages 5 - 15 Explore the outdoors and learn about wilderness skills and native plants and animals. Older campers enjoy swimming, a challenge course and raft trips.
Monkey Kung Fu South Austin 512-835-4404 www.traditionalmartialartsacademy.com Ages 6 - up Each child will receive daily instruction of Nunchaku and Monkey Kung Fu, plus time in an inflatable playground.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE MoolahU Locations throughout Austin 512-443-8851 www.moolahu.com Ages 7 - 18 Kids learn how to make and appreciate money by starting their own business.
Movin and Groovin 1460 Redbud Trl. and 1314 Exposition Blvd., Austin 512-992-7899 www.movinngroovincamp.com Ages 7 - 12 A week-long journey of dynamic discovery through music and movement. This camp provides an opportunity for kids to explore the connection between music and movement by giving them handson instruction playing drums, guitar, keyboard, bass and singing.
Nitro Swim Cedar Park/Round Rock, Bee Cave 512-259-7999 www.nitroswim.com Ages 6 months and up The indoor Nitro Swim Center offers the highest quality swim lessons, non-competitive and competitive swimming around.
One World Summer Camp 7701 Bee Caves Rd., Austin 512-329-6753 www.oneworldtheatre.org Ages 5 - 18
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In just one week, campers will go from auditions to opening night as they step on stage for a public performance as graduates of Camp One World!
Quarries Camp 11400 N. Mopac Exwy., Austin 512-241-0233 www.quarriesrec.org Grades K - 6 We provide fun all summer long by taking campers on local field trips and planning fun and creative adventures on our campus!
Quest ATX 10815 FM 1625, Austin 512-298-9370 www.questatx.com Ages 7 - 17 Learn to wakeboard, kneeboard and water-ski in a fun, supportive environment from our experienced and professional staff. No equipment or experience is necessary.
Rainbow Station’s The Village Summer Program 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Austin 512-260-9700 www.rainbowstationaustin.org Ages infant – 12 years An entire facility dedicated to school-age children. Full-day camp offers weekly mini courses, swim lessons, sports and weekly field trips.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Rio Vista Farm 13013 Fallwell Ln., Del Valle 512-247-2302 www.riovistafarm.net Ages 7 - 16 Austin’s originator of English riding camps. Daily lessons taught by professional trainers, lots of horse time/care, arts and crafts and swimming for hotter afternoons. Friday horse shows for parents to attend.
Round Rock Express Baseball Camps Dell Diamond 512-255-2255 www.roundrockexpress.com Ages 6 and up The Round Rock Express baseball camps offer big league quality instruction on the fundamentals of baseball. Express camps are open to all skill levels, developing the complete athlete by focusing on physical skill sets, leadership and mental skills.
S.A.S. St. Andrews Episcopal School 1112 W. 31st St., Austin 512-299-9700 www.sasaustin.org Ages 4 - 18 We offer camps for aspiring artists, athletes, scientists, musicians, chess enthusiasts, cooks and more.
Smudge Studio 500 West 38th St., Austin 512-777-1742
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www.smudgestudiosaustin.com Ages 5 - 11 Have fun making art with us at Smudge! Explore several mediums through a variety of fun projects and finish each day with some outside playtime.
Spanish Immersion “Layla y la Ballena” 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin; 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin; 107 Ranch Rd. 620 S. #200, Lakeway 512-299-5731, 512-299-5732, 512-466-2409 www.austinbilingualschool.com Ages 2 - 11 Children join together to make the story “Leyla y la Ballena” come to life. Every week is dedicated to a theme, which is taught in an enthusiastic, fun-filled environment.
Spicewood Country Camp 6102 Spicewood Springs Rd., Austin 512-346-2992 www.spicewoodcountry.com Ages 3½ – 10 Nine shady acres in northwest Austin with animals, music, swimming, crafts, sports and horseback riding.
St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School Summer Camps 9300 Neenah Ave., Austin 512-388-8846 www.saviochs.org/parents/summer_camps.cfm Ages 1st - 12th grades Offering numerous camps this summer such as:
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE art, music, robotics, soccer, volleyball and Lone Star Hoops basketball.
St. Gabriel’s Summer Programs 2500 Wimberly Lane, Austin 512- 327-7755 bit.ly/1OefgP3 Ages incoming Jr. K - 8th grade Come join us for a summer of fun by signing up for one of our Saber Camps (Jr. K - 4th) or Specialty Camps (5th- 8th). St. Gabriel’s Summer Program offers a range of general and specialty camps for your student, so join us for basketball, robotics, music, soccer and more!
Stepping Stone School at the Brainery! 17 locations in the Austin area 512-459-0258 www.steppingstoneschool.com Ages 5 - 13 Every day during the summer the lesson will focus on a different country. Your children will participate in activities that teach them about the history and culture of the country of the day.
Summer Spark Zilker Elementary 512-593-5393 www.summerspark.com Ages 1st - 6th With packed schedules, powerful media everywhere, and performance pressure on schools, we believe that a fundamental component of a strong foundation is missing in the lives of many children today.
Synergy Dance 2314 Bee Cave Rd. #C1, Austin 512-327-4130 www.synergydancestudio.com Ages 2 and up Dance camps include ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, also included are tumbling, theatre, crafts and a performance on Fridays. Dance intensives for beginner to advanced.
TechShop Design & Build Summer Camp 120 Sundance Pkwy. Ste. 350. Round Rock 512-900-4664 Ages 8 - 17 Design and build a Kano computer. Kano is a computer you build and code yourself. It is a project designed for children to learn the basics of computer science.
TexARTS Summer Camps 2300 Lohman’s Spur #160, Lakeway 512-852-9079 ext 104 www.tex-arts.org Ages 2 - 18 Musical theatre, dance and visual arts camps including a musical theatre intensive, weekly “best of” musicals, mini camps for ages 2 - 4 and visual arts camps.
The Magnolia School 2903 RR 620, Lake Travis 512-266-9620 www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com Ages 3 - 11
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Full or part time camps, featuring morning academic booster with language arts and handwriting, reading and math. Plus afternoon weekly themed camp activities. 7:30-5:30, Monday through Friday.
Top Golf Summer Academy Avery Ranch and Allandale 512-658-2996 and 512-419-7611 www.topgolf.com/kidzone Ages up to 12 The game is fun for players of any skill level, and there are tons of other activities to keep the whole family entertained - pool tables, interactive video games, giant Jenga and much more.
Wanna Play 4500 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock 14010 N. Hwy 183, Austin 512-345-PLAY and 512-258-PLAY www.wannaplayplaycare.com Ages 6 wks - 12 yrs Kids bring imagination, we bring the fun.
Westlake Athletic & Community Center Mega Camps Westlake 512-934-1106 www.wacctexas.com Grades K and up Keep your kids active throughout the summer, without baking under the summer heat. They make new friends, learn new skills, discover and experience growth in a variety of sporting events.
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE YMCA of Austin Summer Day Camp 22 locations throughout Travis, Hays and Bastrop counties 512-236-9622 www.austinymca.org Ages 4 - 14 Safe and enriching summer day camps. Enjoy field trips, swimming, games and more in a character rich environment with the YMCA of Austin.
YMCA Williamson County Hutto 512-846-2360, Burnet 512-756-6180, Cedar Park 512-250-9622, Round Rock 512-615-5563 www.ymcagwc.org Outdoor Adventure Camps K - 8th grade, Excursion Camps K - 6th grade, Specialty Camps K - 8th grade, Kinder Camps, 3 years - K At the Y, we offer a wide array of summer camp options and activities that are designed to make summer fun, exciting, convenient and safe.
ZACH Summer Theatre Camps 1510 Toomey Rd., Austin 512-476-0594 x236 www.zachtheatre.org/education Ages 3½ - 18 Weekly camps, June 6 through August 19, include acting, dance, voice, comedy, improv and creative drama for beginners to preprofessional students.
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OVERNIGHT camps Camp Lantern Creek for Girls 4045 N. FM 1486, Montgomery, TX 936-597-8225 www.camplanterncreek.com A unique girls sleep away summer camp that was created so girls can create their art, find their voice, try new skills, be cheered on whether they succeed or not, get dirty, push boundaries, love nature and so much more.
Expedition Education Texas and Global adventures 512-638-9722 www.expeditioned.com Ages 8 and up Imagine a summer camp that isn’t site-based. We’re an exploring, learning, doing, connecting, road-trip taking summer camp.
Newk’s Adventure Camp 325 Mission Valley Rd., New Braunfels 830-625-9105 www.texasadventurecamp.net Ages 9 - 16 A fun, adventurous week that includes high ropes, zip lines, campout, Schlitterbahn, paintball, rock climbing, caving, archery, swimming, tubing, rafting, a dance and much more!
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2016 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE
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Pine Cove Columbus, TX 877-4PINECOVE www.pinecove.com Ages 2nd - 11th grades A week packed with fun activities, daily Bible studies, crazy skits, theme nights and so much more.
Riverview Girls Camp 757 County Road 604, Mentone, Alabama 800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com Ages 6 - 16 Recognized as one of the South’s favorite all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview’s Christian emphasis and exciting programs are appreciated by both parents and campers! Riverview offers both one-and two-week camp sessions for girls ages 6 to 16. Dr. Larry and Susan Hooks are the owners and have been camp directors since 1983.
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 weeklong session and a great way to reconnect with each other.
YMCA Twin Lakes Overnight Camp 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park Grades 3rd - 8th New cabins have bathrooms and A/C. Experienced counselors, nutritious meals and new friends. All the activities you love and a whole lot more!
special NEEDS camps 10 day Reversing Dyslexia Summer Camp 12412 Mossy Bark Trail, Austin 512-331-0668 www.reversingdyslexiacamp.com Ages 6 - 18 Two for one benefit: improve dyslexia, ADHD and allergies with Books Neural Therapy and have a fun 10 day summer camp experience at the same time.
Summer Wonders 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin 512-203-4540 www.summerwonders.org Ages 4 - 13 A program for gifted students to explore diverse subjects through an integrated, hands-on approach, presented in a fun, creative manner.
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Customize your Camp Search Online at
austinfamily.com
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BY ROCIO BARBOSA
El Día del Niño
Q
ue hermoso es recordar el Día del Niño, el 30 de Abril. Recuerdo cuando llegaba a la escuela y ya estaba adornada para festejar a los niños, especialmente en el Kínder. Las maestras y las madres de los niños se organizan para la celebración. Las maestras hacen grupos con los niños y les enseñan una coreografía para que presenten un bailable. El preferido de todos los tiempos es “El Ratón Vaquero,” es una canción de Cri-Cri, El Grillito Cantor. Las mamás visten a los niños y niñas con botas y sombrero para su presentación. También ellas se organizan para llevar comida, bebidas y postres, a la escuela para la fiesta de los niños. Una de las comidas que recuerdo es el sándwich de ensalada de pollo, que esta echa de pechuga de pollo, zanahorias, papas, chicharos y mayonesa. También recuerdo los postres gelatinas y pastel, y las bebidas aguas frescas. Al final del evento todos los niños reciben premios de sus maestras. Esta celebración del Día del Niño es festejada en todas las escuelas kínder y primarias de mi país México. Para ver la receta completa de la ensalada de pollo visita austinfamily.com. Rocio Barbosa, madre de dos hijas, vive en Round Rock.
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af
10 THINGS
For Humor Month! Try doing these with your kids, and just try to stop the giggles!
u
Thumb wrestling
v w x y
Shadow puppets
PIENSA POSITIVO
by Leslie Montoya, host of Despierta Austin
Temor al Cambio? Uno de los temores más grandes que tenemos es el miedo al cambio, porque nos cuesta dejar ir lo que hasta ese momento hemos logrado en la vida. Yo he sentido ese miedo cuando llegue a los EE. UU. Mis exitos en Mexico me dieron la idea que ya había aprendido lo necesario y logrado lo suficiente. Pero cuando me dieron la oportunidad de expresarme con más claridad en Inglés, el miedo al cambio me lo impidió. Para saber si el cambio que estas por hacer te beneficiara haste estas preguntas: ¿Qué es lo que obtengo si sigo haciendo las mismas? ¿Cómo me sentiré si logro lo que que este cambio promete darme? Las respuestas a estas preguntas te dará la vision para lo que debes de hacer. ¡Piensa Positivo!
Afraid to Change? One of the biggest fears we have is the fear of change, because it’s hard to let go of what we have accomplished in life. I personally experienced that fear when I moved to the U.S. My achievements in Mexico gave me the false idea that I had learned enough and accomplished enough already. But when I got the opportunity to express myself more clearly in English, the fear of change held me back. Ask yourself these questions to figure out if a change will benefit you. What do I get out of doing the same things? How would I feel if I accomplished what this change can do for me? Your answers will give you a vision of what to do. Think Positive!
Tongue twisters Bathtub hairdos
Goofy faces with a flashlight
z
Bubble gum bubbles
{ | }
Knock-knock jokes
Water balloons Secret code messages
~
The “Floor is Lava”game
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BY ROCIO BARBOSA
Children’s Day
H
ow wonderful it is thinking of April 30, El Día del Niño, or Children’s Day. I remember arriving at school each year to a decorated classroom, ready to celebrate. The teachers, along with all the students’ mothers, would organize a party. The teachers would choreograph a simple dance, which we children would perform. Everyone’s favorite song was “El Ratón Vaquero” (“The Cowboy Mouse”) by Cri-Cri the Little Singing Cricket, a children’s singer and songwriter. The mothers dressed all the children in boots and sombreros for their performance. They also made homemade food, beverages and dessert for everyone. My own favorite was the chicken salad sandwich, which was made with chicken, carrots, potatoes, peas and mayonnaise. Our dessert of choice was Jell-O and cake along with homemade fruit water. At the end of the event, everyone received gifts from their teachers. El Día del Niño is celebrated in elementary schools throughout Mexico. To see the full recipe for my Chicken Salad, visit austinfamily.com. af Rocio Barbosa, mother of two, lives in Round Rock.
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April
C OMP I LED BY BETTY KEMP ER
++ Denotes event occurs on multiple dates
Museum Exhibits
Museum Exhibits page 54 Family Events page 54 Parenting Events page 61 Storytimes page 61
2016 calendar
SHAKESPEARE IN PRINT AND PERFORMANCE Through May 29. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St. FREE. hrc.utexas.edu or 512‑471‑8944. TEXAS CZECHS: ROOTED IN TRADITION Through June 12. Capitol Visitors Center, 112 E. 11th St. FREE. tspb.state.tx.us or 512‑305‑8400. OUR GLOBAL KITCHEN Through July 24. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. $8 youth; $12 adult. thestoryoftexas.com.
Family Events Friday 1
April Fool's Day FIRST FRIDAY 6 to 8 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670. ALICE IN WONDERLAND ++ 6:30 p.m. Zach Theatre, 1510 Toomey Rd. starting at $18. zachtheatre.org or 512‑476‑0594. MOVIES IN THE PARK - MINIONS 8 p.m. Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512‑401‑5528.
Saturday 2
National Children's Book Day É O SAMBA! All day. Zilker Hillside Theater, 2201 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. austinsamba.com or 512‑328‑1731.
Jamie Doesn’t Want to Take a Bath, Apr. 2 MADRONE CANYON HIKE 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Laura's Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045. JAMIE DOESN'T WANT TO TAKE A BATH ++ 9:30 a.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. $6. pollyannatheatrecompany.org or 512‑743‑7966. ZILKER GARDEN FESTIVAL ++ 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Rd. $10 adults, $4 ages 4-12, FREE under age 4. zilkergarden.org or 512‑477‑8672. LAKESHORE LEARNING FREE CRAFTS FOR KIDS EVENT ++ 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lakeshore Learning, 9828 Great Hills Tr. FREE. freecraftsforkids.com or 512‑241‑2885.
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ALICE IN WONDERLAND ++ 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Zach Theatre, 1510 Toomey Rd. starting at $18. zachtheatre.org or 512‑476‑0594. JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH ++ 11 a.m. Zach Theatre, 1421 W. Riverside Dr. starting at $26. zachtheatre.org or 512‑476‑0541. JAMIE DOESN'T WANT TO TAKE A BATH ++ 11 a.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. $6. pollyannatheatrecompany.org or 512‑743‑7966. TEXAS VEG FEST 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St. FREE. texasvegfest.com.
SKYE BLUE AND PRINCE THE FROG 10:30 a.m. Dougherty Arts Theater, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. on.fb.me/1R5Kniv or 512‑974‑4000.
HERITAGE FESTIVAL 1 to 5 p.m. Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas. gov or 512‑401‑5528.
THE TOWN MUSICIANS OF MUMBAI ++ 11 a.m. Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W.
THE ADDAMS FAMILY ++ 1 and 6 p.m. Morris Theatre, 2300 Lohman's Spur, Lakeway. tex-arts.org or 512‑852‑9079 ext. 101.
Austin Family is now making it easier for you to submit your calendar event. Go to www.austinfamily.com, click on “Submit your event” and send in your entry. The deadline is the 5th of each month preceding the month of the event. Events less than $15 usually are listed. For events more than $15, send details to kaye2003@austinfamily.com
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18th St. $8 children; $12 ages 13 and up. scottishritetheater.org or 512‑472‑5436.
DOUBLE VISION: TEENS CREATE 6 to 9 p.m. Contemporary Austin Jones Center, 700 Congress Ave. FREE. thecontemporaryaustin.org.
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Sunday 3 FREE FIRST SUNDAYS 12 to 5 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE. thestoryoftexas.com or 512‑936‑8746. THE ADDAMS FAMILY ++ 1 p.m. Morris Theatre, 2300 Lohman's Spur, Lakeway. tex-arts.org or 512‑852‑9079 ext. 101. THE TOWN MUSICIANS OF MUMBAI ++ 1 p.m. Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W. 18th St. $8 children; $12 ages 13 and up. scottishritetheater.org or 512‑472‑5436. SUNDAY FUNDAYS: SIMPLE MACHINES 1 to 4 p.m. Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St. FREE. nchmuseum.org.
Star Gazing at UT, Wednesdays through Apr. 27 Wednesday 6
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH ++ 2 p.m. Zach Theatre, 1421 W. Riverside Dr. starting at $26. zachtheatre.org or 512‑476‑0541.
HOME SCHOOL DAY 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. Hutto Library, 205 West St., Hutto. FREE. huttotx.gov or 512‑759‑4008.
MUSIC OF THE AMERICAS 4 to 5:30 p.m. AISD Performing Arts Center, 1500 Barbara Jordan Blvd. $12 adults.
COMMUNITY NIGHT ++ 5 to 8 p.m. Thinkery, 1800 Simond Ave. Donation. thinkeryaustin.org .
CONTINUING: Zilker Garden Festival see Saturday 2; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2.
MUSIC ON MAIN ST. ++ 6 to 8 p.m. Main St. Plaza, 221 E. Main St., Round Rock. FREE. roundrocktexas.gov or 512‑218‑5447. STAR GAZING AT UT ++ 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Robert Lee More Hall, Dean Keaton and Speedway. FREE. outreach.as.utexas.edu or 512‑232‑4265.
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
CONTINUING: Jamie Doesn't Want to Take a Bath see Saturday 2.
Thursday 7 LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: THE SELFISH GARDENER PUPPET SHOW ++ 3:30 p.m. Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑1010. CONTINUING: Jamie Doesn't Want to Take a Bath see Saturday 2.
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Saturday 9 BRIGHT LEAF GUIDED HIKES ++ 9 to 11:30 a.m. Bright Leaf Preserve, 2222 and Creek Mountain Rd. FREE. brightleaf. org or 512‑459‑7269. CLEAN SWEEP 9 a.m. All over Austin. After party at Festival Beach, 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St. FREE. keepaustinbeautiful.org or 512‑391‑0617. KYLE MARKET DAYS ++ 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Historic City Square, 101 S. Burleson Rd., Kyle. FREE. cityofkyle.com.
Where the Wild Things Are, Apr. 13-17
HANDS ON HISTORY 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670.
Friday 8
EMPTY BOWL FESTIVAL 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cedar Ridge High School, 2801 Gattis School Rd., Round Rock. Suggested donation $10. roundrockarts.org.
LONESTAR ROD AND KUSTOM ROUNDUP ++ 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Ln. Ages 12 and under FREE. lonestarroundup.com. BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL ++ 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Historic Burnet Square, Downtown Burnet. bluebonnetfestival.org. CONTINUING: Alice in Wonderland see Friday 1; Jamie Doesn't Want to Take a Bath see Saturday 2.
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SECOND SATURDAYS ARE FOR FAMILIES 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St. FREE. thecontemporaryaustin.org or 512‑458‑8191. CONTINUING: The Addams Family see Saturday 2; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; James and the Giant Peach see Saturday 2; Jamie Doesn't Want to Take a Bath see Saturday 2; Lakeshore Learning Free Crafts for Kids
Event see Saturday 2; The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Saturday 2; Lonestar Rod and Kustom Roundup see Friday 8; Bluebonnet Festival see Friday 8.
Sunday 10 FAMILY DAY 12 to 4 p.m. Umlauf Sculpture Garden, 605 Robert E. Lee Rd. FREE. umlaufsculpture.org. CHILDREN'S PICNIC AND REAL FOOD FAIR 1 to 5 p.m. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. FREE. frenchlegationmuseum.org or 512‑472‑8180. CONTINUING: The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Sunday 3; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; James and the Giant Peach see Sunday 3; Blue Bonnet Festival see Friday 8; Bright Leaf Guided Hikes see Saturday 9; The Addams Family see Sunday.
Tuesday 12 LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: THE SELFISH GARDENER PUPPET SHOW 9:30 a.m. Whole Foods, 11920 Domain Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov.
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Wednesday 13 WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE ++ 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. $17 and up. thelongcenter.org or 512‑474‑LONG. CONTINUING: Community Night see Wednesday 6; Music on Main St. see Wednesday 6; Star Gazing at UT see Wednesday 6.
Thursday 14 LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: THE SELFISH GARDENER PUPPET SHOW 3:30 p.m. Milwood Branch Library, 12500 Amherst Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑9880.
MOVIES IN THE PARK - PAN 8 p.m. Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512‑401‑5528. CONTINUING: Alice in Wonderland see Friday 1; Where the Wild Things Are see Wednesday 13.
Saturday 16 CAMP MABRY OPEN HOUSE/MUSTER DAY/ AMERICAN HEROES AIRSHOW 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Camp Mabry, 2200 W. 35th St. FREE, donations welcome. texasmilitaryforcesmuseum.org.
Camp Mabry Open House, Apr. 16-17
CONTINUING: Where the Wild Things Are see Wednesday 13.
Friday 15
Income Tax Day ROUND ROCK EXPRESS VS IOWA ++ 7 p.m. Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. roundrockexpress.com or 512‑255‑2255.
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
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BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL 9 a.m. Emily Ann Theatre and Gardens, 1101 FM 2325, Wimberly. FREE, donations appreciated. emilyann.org. SPRING CARNIVAL 12 to 5 p.m. Great Oaks Elementary School, 16455 Great Oaks Dr., Round Rock. greatoaks.roundrockisd.org. DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE 7 to 9 p.m. Kelly Lane Middle School, 18900 Falcon Pointe Blvd., Pflugerville. pflugervilletx.gov or 512‑298‑6194. CONTINUING: Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; Lakeshore Learning Free Crafts for Kids Event see Saturday 2; The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Saturday 2; Round Rock Express vs Iowa see Friday 15; Where the Wild Things Are see Wednesday 13.
Sunday 17
FREE FUN FOR ALL AGES 10-9 LIVE MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT CRAFT BEER BBQ COOK OFF THE COUNTY LINE BAND STREET DANCE 5-9
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CONTINUING: The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Sunday 3; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; Where the Wild Things Are see Wednesday 13; Round Rock Express vs Iowa see Friday 15; Camp Mabry Open House/Muster Day/Airshow see Saturday 16.
Monday 18 CONTINUING: Round Rock Express vs Iowa see Friday 1.
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Tuesday 19 ROUND ROCK EXPRESS VS OMAHA ++ 7 p.m. Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. roundrockexpress.com or 512‑255‑2255.
Wednesday 20 CONTINUING: Star Gazing at UT see Wednesday 6; Community Night see Wednesday 6; Music on Main St. see Wednesday 6; Round Rock Express vs Omaha see Tuesday 19.
Thursday 21 SCIENCE THURSDAY 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE for pre-registered groups. thestoryoftexas. com or 512‑936‑8746. WALL-E: EARTH DAY FEATURE 8 to 10 p.m. Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe St. FREE. austinparks.org. CONTINUING: Round Rock Express vs Omaha see Tuesday 19.
Friday 22 Earth Day
RED POPPY FESTIVAL ++ 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Historic Downtown Square, Downtown Georgetown. FREE. poppy.georgetown.org or 512‑436‑8696. CONTINUING: Round Rock Express vs Omaha see Tuesday 19.
Saturday 23 BUDA COUNTRY FAIR AND WIENER DOG RACES ++ All day. Buda City Park, Main St., Buda. Kids under 12 FREE.
Taino Spring Celebration, Apr. 30 YOUTH FISHING DERBY 7 to 11 a.m. Old Settlers Park, 3300 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. FREE. roundrocktexas.gov. SUNSET VALLEY ARTFEST 2016 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Toney Burger Center, 3200 Jones Rd. Free admission. sunsetvalley.org. ORCHID SHOW & SALE ++ 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Rd. FREE, donations appreciated. hotos.org. PEARLS OF YOUTH ART SHOW ++ 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fleming Center, 802 N. Ave. C, Elgin. FREE. elginartsassociation.com. LOUISIANA SWAMP THING & CRAWFISH FESTIVAL 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Statesman parking lot, 305 S. Congress. Ages 8 and under FREE. BLUEBONNET AIR SHOW 12 to 4 p.m. Burnet Airport, 281 South, Burnet. Adults $15.
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
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LEGALLY BLONDE JR. ++ 2 and 6 p.m. Kam & James Morris Theatre @TexARTS, 2300 Lohman's Spur, Lakeway. tex-arts.org or 512‑634‑8589. CONTINUING: Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Lakeshore Learning Free Crafts for Kids Event see Saturday 2; The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Saturday 2; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; Annual Red Poppy Festival see Friday 22.
Sunday 24 LEGALLY BLONDE JR. ++ 2 p.m. Kam & James Morris Theatre @ TexARTS, 2300 Lohman's Spur, Lakeway. tex-arts.org or 512‑634‑8589.
CONTINUING: The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Sunday 3; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; Red Poppy Festival see Friday 22; Buda Country Fair and Wiener Dog Races see Saturday 23; Orchid Show & Sale see Saturday 23; Pearls of Youth Art Show see Saturday 23.
Tuesday 26 LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: THE SELFISH GARDENER PUPPET SHOW 6:30 p.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch Library, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑992.
Wednesday 27 LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: THE SELFISH GARDENER PUPPET SHOW 3:30 p.m. Old Quarry Branch Library, 7051 Village Center Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑8860. CONTINUING: Community Night see Wednesday 6; Music on Main St. see Wednesday 6; Star Gazing at UT see Wednesday 6.
Friday 29 ART CITY AUSTIN ++ 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd. $10. artallianceaustin.org. MOVIES IN THE PARK - INSIDE OUT 8:15 p.m. Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas. gov or 512‑401‑5528.
Saturday 30 DIA: DIVERSITY IN ACTION 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hutto Library, 205 West St., Hutto. FREE. huttotx.gov or 512‑759‑4008. LONE STAR RATTLESNAKE DAYS 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Lane. $10 & $5. lonestarrattlesnakedays.org or 512-83‑SNAKE. TAINO SPRING CELEBRATION 12 p.m. Puerto Rican Folkloric Dance & Cultural Center, 701 Tillery Street. FREE. porfdance.org or 512‑251‑8122.
VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.AUSTINFAMILY.COM FOR WEEKLY PRIZES
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CONTINUING: Giant Chess see Saturday 2; Lakeshore Learning Free Crafts for Kids Event see Saturday 2; Alice in Wonderland see Saturday 2; The Town Musicians of Mumbai see Saturday 2; Art City Austin 2016 see Friday 29; Legally Blonde Jr. see Saturday 23.
View the magazine online at austinfamily.com
Visit our advertisers.
iParenting Events ANY BABY CAN offers free parenting classes in English and Spanish on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Postpartum support group meets on Thursdays. 6207 Sheridan Ave. FREE. Anybabycan.org or 512‑454‑3743. YMCA offers a free Childhood Obesity Intervention Program on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the month. Various locations. AustinYmca. org or 512‑236‑9622. BRIDGES TO GROWTH offers a free Love and Logic early childhood parenting class on Wednesdays throughout the month. 7 to 8:30 p.m. 805 W. University Ave., Georgetown. GeorgetownProject.org or 512‑864‑3008.
GEORGETOWN LIBRARY 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org • 512-930-3551
PFLUGERVILLE LIBRARY 1008 W. Pfluger St. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com • 512-990-6275
KYLE LIBRARY 550 Scott St. cityofkyle.com • 512-268-7411
ROUND ROCK LIBRARY 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov • 512-218-7001
LAKE TRAVIS LIBRARY 2300 Lohman’s Spur laketravislibrary.org • 512-263-2885
SAN MARCOS LIBRARY 625 E. Hopkins St. ci.san-marcos.tx.us • 512-393-8200
LAURA’S LIBRARY 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com • 512-381-1400
WELLS BRANCH LIBRARY 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org • 512-989-3188
LEANDER LIBRARY 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leandertx.gov/library • 512-259-5259
WESTBANK LIBRARY 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com • 512-327-3045
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LA LECHE LEAGUE OF CENTRAL TEXAS hosts nine regular meetings in addition to play dates and gatherings in Austin, Round Rock, Killeen/Temple, Bryan-College Station and Waco. All breastfeeding mothers, babies and mothers-to-be are welcome to attend. Texaslll.org.
Monday 4 SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT GROUP 11 a.m. Plaza Level Park at 111 Congress Ave. FREE. InternationalAutismMinistry.com or 737‑247‑8142.
Saturday 9 LITTLE HANDS INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 3620 Hillside Dr., Round Rock. FREE. littlehandsips.com or 512‑572‑1888.
Saturday 16 BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL FAIR 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Fibercove, 1700 South Lamar Blvd. # 338, FREE.
iStorytimes Austin area libraries offer storytimes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and families with children of all ages. In addition, there are storytimes in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, American Sign Language and other languages. Contact your local library for more information about times and appropriate ages. AUSTIN LIBRARY Branches throughout Austin library.austintexas.gov • 512-974-7400 CEDAR PARK LIBRARY 550 Discovery Blvd. cedarparktx.us • 512-401-5600
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
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focus on advertisement
doctors Dr. Jaclyn Marroquin ADC Cedar Bend As a pediatrician, I enjoy watching my patients grow and develop into young adults. I have the privilege of educating families and helping them to anticipate and enjoy each stage of their child’s development. Together, we can help children be successful and establish healthy and happy lifestyles. See ad on page 64
Dr. Rachel Montgomery Lonestar Pediatric Dental Dr. Montgomery graduated from Baylor University in Waco, and followed up by attending the University of Texas Dental School in Houston. Her residency was spent at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, with a specialty in pediatrics. Rachel can most likely be found spending time with her husband Marty and their precious boys. See ad on page 17
Dr. Enrique Cruz
Dr. Marty Montgomery
Sonrisas Dental Center Dr. Cruz graduated from the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico in Mexico City, where he received his degree in dental surgery, followed by training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Dr. Cruz also received dual specialty training in periodontics and orthodontics from Indiana University. See ad on page 56
Lonestar Pediatric Dental Dr. Marty Montgomery comes from a family where all the children were drawn to dental careers early in life. A graduate of Baylor University in Waco, Marty attended Tufts Dental School in Boston. He completed his residency at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, specializing in pediatrics. See ad on page 17
Dr. Mahya Farnia Cruz
Dr. Betty Richardson
Sonrisas Dental Center Dr. Farnia received her orthodontic degree from Indiana University. She has received training in the newest advancements, including Invisalign, lingual braces, 3-D imaging, accelerated orthodontics and TMJ treatments. When not in the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter. See ad on page 56
Dr. Richardson earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing, and a PhD in psych/mental health nursing. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional counselor. She has over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. See ad on page 63
Dr. Julio De la Fuente
Dr. Theresa Willis
Smileworks Orthodontics Dr. De la Fuente received his bachelor’s degree in biology from UTSA as part of the 3+4 program (3 years of college plus 4 years of dental school). He completed this exclusive and challenging program at the top of his class. Dr. De la Fuente is also a graduate of the orthodontic residency program at UTHSCSA. See ad on page 11
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ADC Steiner Ranch Dr. Willis is a graduate of the University of Texas, received her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed her residency at Texas Children’s Hospital. Dr. Willis’ professional interests include developmental pediatrics, fitness and healthy weight in children and teens. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. See ad on page 64
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KID ONE Grow Your Own Strawberry Plant! (from the strawberries in your lunch box) Did you know that strawberries are the only fruit that wear their seeds on the outside? Most strawberry plants come from the store, but to celebrate Earth Day (April 22), you can practice germinating and sowing your own strawberry plant using seeds from the strawberries in your lunch box.
What You Need
3 overly ripe strawberries (They are deep red in color and soft to the touch.) • Butter knife • Towel • Dinner plate • • Seed soil mix
What You Do 1: With the help of an adult, use the knife to slowly scrape the seeds off the
side of each berry onto a towel. Be careful! Strawberry seeds are very tiny.
2: Let the seeds dry for one day on the towel, then plant them or store them
in a sealed container in your freezer until you’re ready to plant them.
3: To plant the seeds, fill a dinner plate with seed soil mix. Sprinkle the seeds
on the surface of the soil and cover with a very thin layer of soil.
4: Move the plate into an area of your home that gets regular sunlight. Mist
the seeds with water to keep them moist until they begin to grow. When you see green leaves sprouting, carefully transfer the sprouted seeds into a garden pot.
5: Once the plants outgrow the pot, transfer the strawberry plants to your
garden. Be sure to water them regularly.
One more note: Wash all berries thoroughly before eating. Enjoy!
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The YMCA of Austin encourages exploration, education and appreciation of our environment, and we believe that starts by engaging young minds in both fun and educational activities in the outdoors. This summer, we are offering 22 camps across Travis, Hays and Bastrop counties where kids will have the opportunity to build self-confidence, independence and creativity in the Austin community. Visit AustinYMCA.org or call 512-322-9622 for more information. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market
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just for by Carrie Taylor
grins
Don’t Get Too Comfortable The biggest mistake you can make as a parent is to get comfortable. I remember the day I sealed my fate all too well: my son was asleep before bedtime, the house was clean, dinner was made and I was settling down with a glass of wine. I thought to myself, I’ve finally got a hang of this “mom” thing. We could totally have like, five more kids. I can do anything! I slept my last peaceful sleep that night. Morning came, and the usual routine played out. Baby was changed, dressed and seated in his high chair for his usual breakfast – a spinach omelet and mixed fruit. He loves once loved spinach omelets and mixed fruit.
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I watched in confused horror as his face twisted in anger. His hands rounded into fists as he began to pound on his high chair, “Nooooooo!” His screams echoed throughout the house, shaking picture frames and causing the dogs to flee to my bedroom. I tried the airplane trick. I tried pretending to take a bite first. I tried distracting him then shoving it into his unsuspecting mouth. (That last effort got me the saddest, most profoundly betrayed look I’ve ever received from my son.) I gave in, and he ate toast and cheese for breakfast. Sometimes I think it’s punishment for the sins of my youth: the consequences of all of those broken curfews are manifested in my toddler’s hate for all things green and not related to bread. This too, shall pass, I tell myself, an echo of words uttered by every mother ever, as I rock back and forth in my computer chair eating Girl Scout Cookies. Here’s to hoping a child can survive on bread alone—and the occasional Thin Mint. af Carrie Taylor is a native Texan and mother of one.
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