Afm jan 2014 mag by Austin Family Magazine

austinfamily magazine’s

16th Annual

Summer Camp Fair E N E O FR SSI I M AD

Sunday, January 26 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. PALMER EVENTS CENTER Spring and summer day and night camps including: • music • equestrian • tennis • dance • computers • environmental • science • magic

• basketball • football • ice skating • acting • frontier • pottery • gymnastics • soccer

Call 512.733.0038 or visit

austinfamily.com

Meet with staff from over 100 local, state and national camps and find the perfect camp for your child ages 3 – 18 The camp fair will educate families on a variety of camps to help make those important decisions. All who attend will benefit from this one-stop campers' event.

Come and register to win a FREE camp! Zach Theatre Austin Sailboat Rentals UT Recreational Rio Vista Farms Mad Science Paramount Theatre Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

Cordovan Art Jardin de Ninos Bear Creek Stables Dance Discovery Austin Film Festival Texas Ski Ranch

YMCA Austin Fantastic Magic Camp Wonder Space Bits, Bytes & Bots Jump Gymnastics Bricks 4 Kids austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

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inside

1/14

austinfamily • smart parenting • healthy homes

columns 9

Making the grade The camp-toclassroom connection Collin Sparks

Family Connections Appy new year!

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

WINNERS

12 The Learning Curve by Jennifer VanBuren Bring your own device High tech options in the classroom 20 Ten things … for cold rainy days! 21 Family Matters by Dr. Betty Richardson Tackling the terrible twos 22 Lifelines by Sara Rider Bridging

54 Films by Jack Kyser The Hunger Games: Catching Fire 56 Humor by Mimi Burleson The road to good intentions

Q & A with Mike Koleber Melanie Dunham

extras

15 24 32 34

Lucky you! Ten ways to find more good fortune Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

calendar

2014 Cover Kid Contest Winners Education Guide 2014 Focus on Doctors Camp Guide 2014

49 Family Events 52 Storytimes 54 Parenting Events

in every issue

The perfect plate Natural remedies for common pregnancy ailments Sarah Lindsey

7 8 55 55

Play It Safe Product recalls Around Austin Kidzone January fun! YMCA Book Recommendations Pam Heller

tune in Catch Austin Family live on “Good Day Austin” every Friday morning.

cover shot

Elise is looking forward to summer camp!

Go to www. austinfamily.com. You must answer phone to win!

Cover photographed by Archive Photography©

Open QR Code reader app and snap a picture of the black and white box to be connected to Free Stuff online registration.

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editor’s note BY MELANIE DUNHAM

January 2014 I can just feel the optimism, can’t you? January makes me want to tackle every list, try every healthy recipe and do every fun thing with my kids that we didn’t do last year. There’s a subtle shift from the “more” of the holidays to the “every” possibilities in January, if that makes any sense. It’s exciting! Speaking of possibilities, our editorial this month focuses on finding the positives and making improvements in our lives. Our Q&A profile features Nitro Swimming founder Mike Koleber, who used his past success as a competitive swimmer to turn a forgotten business into a booming empire. If you’re not one who usually falls on the “born lucky” end of the spectrum, Heidi Smith Luedtke returns this month with tips for increasing your good fortune. And looking at the bright side during pregnancy can be tough for many expectant mothers, so check out newcomer Sarah Lindsey’s tips for using natural remedies for some common mom-to-be ailments. There’s no better time than the present to put your best foot forward and pledge to have a great year. Getting in the right mindset is step one, so make the commitment to doing everything you can to have a fortunate and fortuitous 2014. We’re behind you every step of the way!

Volume 21, No. 10

PUBLISHER Kaye K. Lowak EDITOR Melanie Dunham editor2003@austinfamily.com COPY EDITOR Paula Halloum ADVISING EDITOR Dr. Betty Kehl Richardson CALENDAR EDITOR Betty Kemper calendar2003@austinfamily.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jack Kyser, Sara Rider, Jennifer Van Buren, Richard Singleton, Mimi Burleson, Melanie Dunham, Sarah Lindsey, Betty Richardson, Collin Sparks, Heidi Luedtke Ph.D., ART DIRECTOR John Franzetti nr2003@austinfamily.com William Stovall Sharon Russell Albrecht ADVERTISING SALES Kaye K. Lowak kaye2003@austinfamily.com Greg Lowak greg@austinfamily.com BUSINESS 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: Phone Number:

P.O. Box 7559 Round Rock, Texas 78683-7559 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 contributers. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. No portion of Austin Family may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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play it safe: product recalls Government recalls mini bikes, wagons, rattles, and windsuits Baja Inc. is recalling 23,000 mini bikes because the front fork can separate from the wheel, posing fall and crash hazards to riders. Affected units were sold at Northern Tool Equipment, Pep Boys and Tractor Supply Company from February 2010 to September 2013 for about $650. Consumers should contact Baja Motorsports to schedule a free repair.

The Step2 Company, LLC is recalling 14,000 Step2® Whisper Ride Touring Wagons™ because the removable blue seat backs can detach and allow the child in the wagon to fall out, posing a fall hazard. Affected units were sold at Toys R Us stores nationwide and online at www.ToysRUs.com from February 2013 to August 2013 for about $130. Consumers should contact Step2™ to obtain a free repair kit.

Manhattan Group LLC is recalling 8,300 Manhattan Toy® Quixel™ baby rattles because the colored arches can break, creating a small part that poses a choking hazard to small children. Affected units were sold at specialty toy and baby stores nationwide, in Canada and online at www.manhattantoy.com from September 2011 through October 2013 for about $15. Consumers should return the rattle to the store where purchased for a full refund.

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me, Anyti r e t s i Reg r Round! Yea

2 Convenient Locations! Anderson Mill Location 10700 Anderson Mill Road 512-342-SWIM (7946)

Westlake Location 3267 Bee Caves Road 512-327-SWIM (7946)

Academy Sports + Outdoors is recalling 6,600 girls BCG hooded windsuits because the drawstrings in the hood around the neck area pose a strangulation hazard to young children. Affected units were sold at Academy Sports + Outdoors stores and www.academy.com between September 2013 and October 2013 for about $20. Consumers should remove the drawstring from the windsuits to eliminate the hazard, or return the garment to the place of purchase for a full refund.

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. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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around austin

BY THE NUMBERS

RIDE ON CENTER FOR KIDS RECEIVES RESEARCH GRANT Ride On Center for Kids (R.O.C.K.), a Georgetown-based center providing hippotherapy and therapeutic riding for children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges, announced the receipt of a $32,900 grant from the W.D. Kelley Foundation. The grant will fund research examining the relationship between equine-assisted activities and therapy (EAAT) and the behavior of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The study is a collaboration between R.O.C.K. and Southwestern University in Georgetown and is expected to demonstrate increased positive behaviors in children with ASD, such as improved functional communication and decreased negative behaviors. These benefits are expected to carry over to the home environment, resulting in improved quality of life for both participant and family. With the generous support from organizations like the W.D. Kelley Foundation, doors of opportunity are opened for individuals facing daily challenges to life skills and independence.

That’s the percentage of people who stick to their New Year’s resolutions beyond six months. Will you last longer this year? Source: statisticbrain.com

CHECKLIST

Must-Do this month Plant your peas, potatoes and radishes for your spring and early summer dinners. Shop those end-of-year clearance sales for next year’s coats and boots. Start researching summer camps – yes, it’s time!

COMMUNITY DONATIONS HELP FLOOD-AFFECTED AISD STUDENTS AND STAFF Austin ISD donors showed generous support to district students and staff members affected by the October 31 flooding in Central Texas with a combined contribution of $142,900 to-date. About 360 students and 25 AISD staff members lost their homes or were temporarily displaced due to extensive flood damage. Jeanne and Michael Klein donated $50,000 to The Austin Project for direct assistance for families with children enrolled in AISD as well as for district employees who were displaced by the storms. In addition, the Tapestry and Buena Vista foundations joined efforts to provide a $20,000 challenge grant for a total of a $40,000 contribution to The Austin Project for assistance. Those grants were matched and exceeded, thanks to a $20,000 donation from the Moody Foundation, a $15,000 donation from Wells Fargo, a $10,000 donation from Sandy and Lisa Gottesman and additional donations from The Links, Inc.-Town Lake Chapter and MWM Design Group. Additional support has been provided through contributions from the superintendent, her senior cabinet and AISD board of trustees. To make a contribution to AISD students and staff affected by the floods, please visit The Austin Project's "Get Involved" section at theaustinproject.org/get-involved/donate.

Must-Go this month Wednesday, January 1: Start the new year off right at the Twin Lakes Family YMCA Health Expo! Sunday, January 5: Get your hands dirty and your garden in shape at Kids in the Garden in Georgetown! Sunday, January 12: Work off those holiday treats with Ballet Austin Presents Get Fit!

Sunday, January 26: Austin Family magazine’s 16th Annual Summer Camp Fair is your onestop-shop for summer camps! See page 1 for more information!

LEANDER HIGH SCHOOL AIR FORCE JROTC WINS FIRST PLACE AT STATE COMPETITION Air Force Junior ROTC (TX-20007) Drill Teams from Leander High School traveled to C.E. King High School in Houston on November 16 to compete in the 15th Annual Sheldon’s “Salute to Veterans” Drill Meet, a 30-school, state-wide ROTC competition. TX-20007 competed in four events: Female Color Guard led by cadet master sergeant Alexis Guzman; Mixed Color Guard led by cadet technical sergeant Callie Guzman; Armed Drill led by cadet second lieutenant Dallas Taylor and Unarmed Drill led by cadet master sergeant Ann Maynard. After phenomenal performances from all of the LHS competitors, the Unarmed Drill Team won first place in the competition. Members of the Unarmed Drill Team are commander Ann Maynard and team members Destiny Castro, Meghan Gustafson, Kayleigh Brown, Victoria Atkinson, Zorena Moore-Pfeifer, Ajia Ava, Katie King, Mckenna Stout, Erykah Owens-Taylor, Taylor Tupa, Nicole Rodriguez and Emeri Crumley. continued on page 18

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family connections BY RICHARD SINGLETON

y New Year! p p A

Likely Santa did at least two things this past year: 1) gobbled up your chocolate chip cookies with reckless abandon, and 2) left a slick, shiny new tablet under your tree. The outlook for 2014 is even more tablet-focused, with sales expected to rise by 54 percent. Reportedly half of all computing devices shipped in 2014 will be tablets – 65 percent Android and 30 percent Apple. Tablets used to be the tech version of a mullet – a clumsy mix of business and party – but they are well on their way to cleaning up their act. Okay, that’s a metaphor that you won’t soon forget, but you get my point, right? Back to your new toy. You’ve got that eye-popping screen. You’ve got blistering speed. You’ve got near ubiquitous WiFi connectivity, or better yet another great reason to pop into the local coffee shop. Ah, but what will be your daily apps of choice?

Billions of apps will be downloaded this year. It’s a 25 billion dollar business – that’s a lot of downloads. On average, consumers have about 60 apps on their device. Choosing a handful of apps out of hundreds of thousands of options can be tricky. The go-to apps are almost universal: 1) Facebook, 2) Twitter, 3) Instagram, 4) Pinterest and 5) YouTube, for instance. Nothing much needs to be said about these. You know them. You use them. They are classics for a reason. But, what next? Which apps are right for you and maybe even more importantly, which apps are right for your kids? We’ll focus on apps for adults this month and apps for the younger kids next month. The teens? As if they would listen to you and me anyways! My article would be one word long: Snapchat, followed by dozens of emoji. Just kidding. Sorta. Forgive me if I don’t discuss all 900,000+ apps available for our downloading pleasure. Space and sanity require that I limit it to just a few: Flipboard. If you are interested in staying current on art, culture, style, business, tech or whatever else piques your interest, download Flipboard and install it before you finish this paragraph. You’ll Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

thank me later. It’s a buttery smooth little app. If the Internet is the Universe, then Flipboard is the Milky Way. It’s one of my favorites. It’s the kind of app that makes me wonder how it could ever be any other way. It just works. It’s especially ooey-gooey good on phones. The Flipboard format on my tablet is good, but on my phone, it’s irreplaceable. I’d develop some type of withdrawal without it. Dropbox. With so many devices floating around our homes, offices and vehicles, it’s increasingly important to be able to have a universal location for all our content. Sure Microsoft and Apple have their own proprietary versions of cloud storage, but there’s something about Dropbox that keeps me coming back to it as my main location of cloud storage. Its simplicity and cross-platform success has been effortless. And, now, Dropbox is taking their game to a new level and making it easier to access content for both personal and business needs. What’s not to like? TED. Many of you might already be TED Talks fans, perhaps even aficionados. If you’re not, let me be the first to say, there’s something there for you. Whether it’s inspiration, ideas, encouragement or the spark for a new vision, TED has it. Skeptical? Brené Brown’s “The Power of Vulnerability” will win you over. Download the TED app. Fire up Brown’s video. It will not disappoint. I promise. Just try it. Trello. Now, I have to admit that I haven’t used this one much yet, but as a good nerd, I have a nerd herd that I trust. One of my tech friends highly recommends this one and the more that I get to know about Trello, the more I agree. It’s not flashy, but Trello helps organize our busy lives, projects, activities or life events, which means that there’s a better chance that the great things we have planned actually happen as we would like them to happen. Four out of a million! It’s not earthshaking, but it’s a head start in an ongoing race to find the select few apps that we want on our devices. It’s always good to remember that each of us lives, works and plays in our own personal context. These four recommendations might not be the best ones for you, but that may change. And if it doesn’t, the great news is that there are so many more choices. Give these a try. Don’t like them? Delete them and move on to something more suitable for your needs, your likes or your changing life circumstances. Just like the weather in our fair state, one thing’s for certain – change! Finally, Happy New Year! I hope you have an amazing 2014!

Richard Singleton, MACE, MAMFC, LPC, is the Executive Director at STARRY in Round Rock. austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

test drive games ESRB ENTERTAINMENT SOFTWARE RATING BOARD

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

Gran Turismo 6 Platform: PlayStation 3 Rating: Everyone Content descriptors: Mild lyrics Other: Includes online features that may expose players to unrated usergenerated content (PlayStation 3) Rating summary: This is a driving simulation game in which players can select cars and drive them through competitive racing circuits. Players attempt to reach first place in time trials and racing events while learning proper racing techniques. One song references tobacco (e.g., “Never seen a bill/Change for cigarettes”).

Robot Rescue Platform: Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo DSi Rating: Everyone Content descriptors: Comic mischief Rating summary: This is a puzzle game in which players guide small robots with eyes and teeth through a maze to reach an exit. Players navigate around teleport devices, glue stains, mines and short-circuit traps. If robots run into a mine/trap, they explode in a brief burst, emit smoke, then get sent back to the start of the maze.

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 Platform: Nintendo 3DS Rating: Everyone Content descriptors: Animated blood, comic mischief, fantasy violence Rating summary: This is an action game in which players interact with the characters and settings from the movie Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2. Players use swiping motions to slash at sticky notes, marshmallows and pieces of fruit as they appear on screen. 10

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St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School is an SAES accredited half-day preschool with enrollment of 200 students ages 2 years through Kindergarten.

Attend an OPEN HOUSE:

JANUARY 16 at 9AM JANUARY 22 at 9AM Meet in the Sanctuary

Kindergarten Open House JANUARY 29 at 6:30PM Meet in the Youth Center

Accepting applications for the 2014-2015 school year www.stmatthewsschoolaustin.com St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School 8134 Mesa Drive t Austin, TX 78759 512.345.3040

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the learning curve BY JENNIFER VANBUREN

Bring your own device High tech options in the classroom

Living in the digital age Our children were born into a digital world. For adults, this presents a challenge because no matter how well educated we are in the field of technology, we can never think like our kids do simply because in our formative years, we were not immersed in a multi-media world where answers are just a click away. This is how they think and learn; to keep them from these educational tools can be frustrating for them. Imagine if previous generations were asked to read a sundial to determine the time, unroll scrolls to find information and use a quill to take notes. Wouldn’t they question, “Why can’t we just use a watch, pencils and books like we do at home?” As the smartphone revolution swung into full gear, more and more students came to school with devices that were regularly confiscated. Some teachers felt the futility of these policies. Instead of telling students to put the phone away, why not allow them access to the powerful learning tool lurking in their backpacks? Surely the student must think, “I could do this work much faster with virtually limitless access to real time content if I could just turn on my phone and do a quick search.” Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is a program that allows students to bring their laptops, tablets or smartphones to use at school for educational use. The use of technology encourages ownership of student’s learning, access to online instructional material and real-time information. BYOD programs have the benefit of access advantage: anytime, anywhere and any device.

The initial “sounds great, let’s go!” response to the benefits is tempered by the challenges even a well-run BYOD program must face.

Challenges

"If we teach today's students as we taught yesterday's, we rob them of tomorrow" ~ John Dewey

re we preparing our students for the world with skills that will help them be successful in today’s work environment, or are we pressing for skills needed for a time gone by? Today’s world is constantly evolving and changing. Adults who wish to remain relevant must be prepared to be flexible by keeping current with new technology and agile enough to bend with a changing world. Independent learning, whether on the job or in school, is and will be connected, mobile and on-demand. Long gone are the days of the “three Rs” designed to prepare workers for industry. We now live in the days of the “four Cs:” communication, creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

• Security concerns, such as data protection, must be addressed. In order to protect student and school-related information, it is recommended that the network used by students be separate from the one used by teachers and administrators. • Authentication procedures must be put in place to ensure only authorized users can connect to the network. • While student privacy is a concern, school staff must be able to monitor what websites students are using on the school network, just as teachers are accountable to administration during their connection at school. • While the school budget does not need to include as many tablets or laptops, there is an initial cost of expanding the infrastructure needed to support the bandwidth student-use brings. • Even though families shoulder the cost to purchase and maintain the device, there are costs of planning and implementing a BYOD program, including extensive teacher training and continued support, and expanding the technological infrastructure.

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• There will also be time pressure on district and school administration to plan and present parent information sessions and student training. • With an increase of duties, a district may have to hire more technology support staff.

The buy-in Implementing a BYOD program requires a buy-in from all stakeholders, including school and district-level administrators, teachers, students and parents. Teachers may be skeptical and wonder, “How will I incorporate these devices into our activities and routine?” and, “How will I monitor how the devices are being used?” Actually, this is an issue with any classroom materials. When a student is supposedly reading a textbook in class, he may be drawing pictures on the borders,

Instead of telling students to put the phone away, why not allow them access to the powerful learning tool lurking in a backpack? writing love or hate notes to classmates or reading a comic book hidden in the pages. Teachers need to be reassured that with a little adjustment, they have the skills needed to monitor the use of devices. Students’ Internet usage will be monitored and reported. Teachers also need to be reassured that they will receive training and on-going support. What about the kids without a device? Is this furthering the socio-economic divide? Districts plan to meet this challenge by providing technology in the classrooms so kids without a device can participate. Teachers may plan for students to break into groups with the owners of the tablet, laptop or smartphone placed in different groups. Sharing computers has always been a practice in classrooms; having more devices means less kids will have to share the ones already avilable. Concerned parents worry that along with binders, calculators, tissues and hand sanitizer, a laptop or tablet may be added to the list of school supplies. They also worry about their child being pressured to share an expensive piece of equipment with children they may not trust. Leaving a sweatshirt or gym shoes at school is a hassle, but the possibility of leaving a tablet behind, or a tablet being broken, is enough to make some parents say “no, you cannot bring your iPad to school.”

Do your homework Many local schools and districts are implementing BYOD programs, or are in the midst of researching the feasibility of getting onboard. As stakeholders, there are some questions you can ask policymakers in your district: • Will students be trained in Internet safety, security and privacy? • How will the devices be used as educational tools? • How will schools handle issues of security, theft or damage? • Will student privacy be put in jeopardy with a room full of digital cameras and access to text messaging, email and social network sites? • What is the cost to the district in comparison with buying the devices using money from the budget?

continued on page 14

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continued from page 13

â&#x20AC;˘ Will the device be protected with Internet filters? â&#x20AC;˘ What support and encouragement will you give teachers? Any time of transition can be tricky, but when done right, the end result is usually worth the growing pains. The ultimate truth remains: schools must catch up with the rest of the society in order to give students the learning tools and the skills that are relevant to our lives today. The question is how we get technology into the classroom; BYOD can be the next step.

Jennifer VanBuren, educator and child advocate, is also a mother to three school-aged children.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Making the grade The camp-to-classroom connection By Collin Sparks

ccording to a recent Huffington Post article, author Todd Kestin claims that summer camp is one of the most important life experiences a child can have, as he or she learns to choose good friends and make decisions for his or her life. In addition, Kestin argues that summer camp gives kids the confidence needed to pursue their dreams. What parent wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want that? As a summer camp director, I would add that the experience also gives students the opportunity to develop pivotal skills for academic and career success. Students who attend summer camp have the opportunity to develop life skills apart from parental supervision that benefit them in and out of the classroom, including learning how to lead others, how to step outside of their comfort zone and how to diligently work towards success in spite of everyday challenges. Here are a few skills we have seen summer campers develop that help them to be better students year-round!

nity to try new things each and every day. As a result, children are affirmed in their strengths and positively challenged in other areas. They conclude the summer with a newfound confidence that impacts their study habits and willingness to volunteer in class, and they feel more prepared for new experiences in academics, sports and other extracurricular activities.

Summer campers lead and serve

According to a study of 1,000 parents by the American Camping Association, on a scale of one to five (with five meaning that parents strongly agreed), parents gave the statement â&#x20AC;&#x153;my child felt successful at campâ&#x20AC;? an average score of 4.63. This is an incredible testament to the value of the opportunities young campers find during the summer! Campers have the opportu-

Summer camp provides the opportunity to practice the ultimate leadership quality: putting others ahead of oneself! Each day, campers are given opportunities to step up and serve those around them. Whether it is by cleaning the cabin alongside their bunk mates or encouraging a friend while they navigate the treetops on a ropes course, summer campers learn the value of leading and encouraging one another with kind words and a thoughtful attitude. With the emphasis on anti-bullying programs in schools today, a strong sense of community goes a long way.

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Summer campers build confidence

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By giving campers personal responsibilities and assignments, they recognize the importance of teamwork and followthrough, skills critical to classroom success.

Summer campers value diligence An important skill summer camp hones that applies strongly throughout the school year is creating a day-to-day schedule and sticking to it! While each summer camp may differ slightly, most camps offer a form of routine, encouraging campers to be diligent in their schedules and responsibilities. At Kanakuk, Kampers participate in “honor cabin” every morning, working together to do things like make their bunks, or-

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ganize their clothes, sweep, clean and more. By giving campers personal responsibilities and assignments, they recognize the importance of teamwork and follow-through, skills critical to classroom success. Summer campers often enter the school year with a new perspective – one that pushes them to try new things, put others ahead of themselves and work hard to reach their full potential. These skills often equate to improved schoolwork, commitment to sports and extracurricular activities and provide a basis to excel in tough situations. As directors, we believe these experiences allow campers to fully develop their future, whatever it may hold.

Collin Sparks is the director of Kanakuk’s K-Kountry summer camp for youth ages 7-11.

austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

continued from page 8

RRISD RAISES FUNDS FOR COATS DURING THE HOLIDAYS Round Rock ISD campus libraries raised $22,564 during the recent 2013 Coins for Coats Drive. Students, staff and community members were able to contribute to the project by placing their loose change and cash in collection bins at campus libraries this fall. The district then collected the money and gave it to the Round Rock Area Serving Center to purchase coats, hats and gloves. Serving Center representatives distributed the winter wear to RRISD students eligible for the federally funded free and reduced lunch program. Younger siblings of district students also received coats, hats and gloves during the drive. RRISD director of library services Carlyn Gray said this is the largest dollar amount the district has collected during the Coins for Coats Drive.

DANCE & MOVEMENT CAMPS

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DREAMS BEGIN HERE. The Broadway Kids JUN 9-13 & AUG 4-8

Dance Discoveries AUG 11-15

Imagination in Motion JUN 16-20 & AUG 18-22

• Classes for boys & girls beginning at age 3 • Now registering for summer classes

ENROLL TODAY AT BALLETAUSTIN.ORG OR CALL 512.501.8704 18

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Q&A with Nitro Swimming’s Mike Koleber Austin back in 1999, and my wife Tracy and I were newly married. We knew that if we were ever going to make a go of a swim center, we had to get really busy and move some mountains. It was seven years later that Nitro was established and a year after that we opened the doors to our Cedar Park location. It's been an adventure the entire way! AF: How did those experiences shape your current team swimming programs?

It takes more than just a love for sports to go from elementary swim team to aquatics mogul. Nitro Swimming owner Mike Koleber did just that, utilizing his impressive competitive swimming history as the foundation for building Austin’s two largest swim centers and a dynasty of successful athletes. Read on to learn Mike’s steps to success. AF: When did you begin swimming? MK: I learned to swim at the age of three. My Dad was my first teacher, and I remember how scared I was of the deep end. I was terrified! AF: Do you feel it was an ideal age to start? MK: Absolutely. Studies are showing the earlier kids get acclimated and comfortable in the water, the better. AF: Tell us about your competitive swimming background. MK: I began competitive swimming on a summer league team in Flushing, Michigan when I was five. Great memories. By the time I graduated from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, I was an 11-time AllAmerican. I took about a 10-year break from the swimming world and missed it too much to stay away any longer. I was in a corporate role when I was transferred to

MK: I remember so much of what it was like learning to swim at three and then competing at five and six-years-old that I believe it has given me a unique perspective in the design and how we execute our day-to-day programs. We are a very positive-energy environment. We work hard to be a place where kids are attracted to come back day after day, week after week. We strive for excellence, but do so in an enjoyable way. We are strict on standards and have found that the kids actually prefer a structure that is based on excellence. AF: What are the challenges in owning and operating swim centers of this magnitude? MK: There are lots of “moving parts” as you can imagine. We work hard to deliver a great product/service every day, every lesson, every swim practice. This involves the front desk staff being friendly/helpful, to the teachers being ready to deliver the passion every 30-minute lesson and every coach doing what he or she can to make every kiddo better that day. AF: What are the biggest rewards? MK: No doubt the biggest rewards are the smiles on the kiddos’ faces and the proud parents we see daily. We get emails and visits from former swimmers of ours who are so thankful for what we’ve taught them beyond the sport. The discipline, the perseverance, the learning how to delay gratification, the fitness aspects, etc. This is so much bigger than just swimming. When a former swimmer goes into the “real world,” they have already been trained to handle setbacks, manage their time and not quit when things get tough. We’re cre-

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ating leaders – every one of them. Great stuff! AF: What advice would you share with parents considering swimming for their kids? MK: There’s not a better sport or activity on the planet than swimming. Regardless of the sport, my advice to all parents would be to love and encourage your child unconditionally. Your children want one thing more than anything else when it comes to their athletics: they want to know that you are PROUD of them – regardless of their actual performance in the pool, on the court or on the field somewhere. Take a step back, remember that it is about them and not you. AF: What are your future plans for Nitro Swimming? MK: We are looking at expanding our swim schools around the metro Austin area, and eventually you may be seeing a big Nitro #3 somewhere down the line if we can handle it. Right now we’re working on making our current offerings better. Not a day goes by that we aren’t trying to improve. AF: Tell us about your family. MK: My wife Tracy runs the “dry” side of Nitro, while I watch what’s happening on the “wet” side of things in the actual pools. We’ll be celebrating 15 years of marriage this May, and hard to believe someone could hang around me this long without going crazy! We have two kiddos, a 13-yearold son and a nine-year-old daughter. Neither one swims competitively, but we support them in whatever they love. AF: What are your favorite things to do in Austin? MK: One of our favorite things we’ve ever done here in Austin was take a Segway tour! Very easy to learn and we had a blast! I also like attending Texas Stars hockey games. I can barely skate, but I love watching hockey.

continued on page 28

austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

Ten thingsâ&#x20AC;Ś for cold, rainy days! 1 Set up a cozy fort/tent/nook and read out loud with your kids!

Craft a tropical art project with magazine images or bright, sunny markers!

Help the kids write and perform a play for their friends!

Create an indoor or online scavenger hunt with a fun, frosty theme!

3 Make indoor

sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores for a special treat!

Put on a fashion show!

Enjoy an indoor picnic with winter-themed foods!

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

Experiment with new hot chocolate recipes!!

Crank up the heater and have a beach party!

Pick a new language and learn a few words and phrases.

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family matters BY DR. BETTY RICHARDSON

Tackling the terrible twos I’m a stay-at-home mom finding it hard to deal with what people have called the “terrible twos.” Our two-year-old son is so challenging, saying “no” all day long and throwing lots of temper tantrums. He gets into everything and I can’t take my eyes off him for a second. I’m exhausted by the time my husband comes home at night. Do you have any suggestions for dealing with a difficult two-year-old?

Two-year-olds are often hard to handle as their moods change frequently. They get angry, frustrated and sometimes aggressive, and they throw temper tantrums and/or hold their breath. At this age, children use behavior to express themselves when they don’t have words. It’s good to just let them have their moment of expressing frustration in a safe way. One thing that makes life easier when dealing with toddlers, and in fact with older children, too, is to stop asking kids what they want in terms of the structure of their day; take charge of the schedule. Instead of asking if he wants to take a bath, tell him it’s time for his bath. Routine is reassuring to a toddler or young child – having the same schedule each day is helpful. You might even want to post the schedule using clock hands and symbols for eating, bathing and sleeping.

Naptime is important because it gives you a chance to rest and it gives your child’s neurological system a chance to rest. Keep in mind that young children have sensitive neurological systems and need their naps and nighttime sleep. Make time for a relaxing bedtime routine and stick to it. I recommend you read about two-year-olds in Dr. Barry T. Braselton’s book “Touchpoints.” It’s a long time favorite of mine for understanding what children are like and what they need at various ages. Best of luck!

Betty Richardson, PhD, RNC, LPC, LMFT, is an Austin-based psychotherapist who specializes in dealing with the problems of children, adolescents and parents.

Another way to cut down on the negative responses and yet help your child assert his independence is to offer choices, but not too many. A choice between two things works well. “Do you want applesauce or apple slices?” works better than, “Do you want some fruit?” You might look into mother’s day out programs or trade a couple of babysitting hours with another mother so you both can get in a bit of rest, housework or shop without having to deal with toddler behavior for a while. Joining a playgroup lets you enjoy your child in child-focused activities with other parents and provides opportunities for you to compare how other parents handle situations that are trying for you.

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lifelines BY SARA RIDER

Have a better pregnancy Keeping hormones in check from conception to post-partum

When most of us think about our bodies, we think about the parts that make them up: arms and legs, fingers and toes or internal organs like the heart and lungs. What we often donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think about is the complex system of glands that make up the endocrine system. But if you want to become pregnant, stay pregnant and deliver a healthy baby, this not-much-discussed system can play a powerful role. The endocrine system is made up of glands, such as the pituitary and thyroid. Some of these glands make hormones and release them into the bloodstream. From there, the hormones travel to receptors on cells throughout our bodies, where they play a very important role in what those cells do, or donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do. So if one of your goals for 2014 is to become pregnant and deliver a healthy baby, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need a healthy, well-balanced endocrine system.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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First things first First, to become pregnant, you need a healthy pituitary and thyroid. “The pituitary gland is the master hormone regulator,” explains Dr. Lindsay Harrison, an endocrinologist with Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology. “The pituitary gland regulates the ovaries and it needs to be working correctly in order for women to ovulate. Also, the thyroid plays a very important role in your ability to become pregnant.” But even if these two glands are working correctly and you become pregnant, the course of that pregnancy will still be impacted by your endocrine system.

The thyroid connection According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), thyroid hormone plays a critical role during pregnancy, both in the development of a healthy baby and in keeping the mother healthy. Thyroid hormones affect a wide range of things including metabolism, brain development, heart and nervous system functions, breathing and menstrual cycles. During pregnancy, according to NIH, thyroid hormone is critical to the normal development of the baby’s brain and nervous system. But many women can either have too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism). “If your thyroid hormone is low (hypothyroidism),” reveals Dr. Harrison, “it can lead to first trimester miscarriages or developmental delays in children after delivery.” Dr. Harrison recommends getting your thyroid levels checked at your first pre-natal appointment, particularly if you are over 30, overweight or have a family history of thyroid problems, since any of these can increase the likelihood of thyroid issues. Uncontrolled hypothyroidism during pregnancy can cause preeclampsia, anemia, low birth weight and stillbirth, according to the NIH. Too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) during pregnancy can cause many of the same problems, including preeclampsia, miscarriage and low birth weight. But it can also cause congestive heart failure and premature birth, according to NIH. And both mother and baby can have problems with hyperthyroidism after birth. If a mother has uncontrolled hyperthyroidism or makes antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland, her baby can have

a rapid heart rate and poor weight gain, says NIH. And an enlarged thyroid can press on the windpipe and cause breathing problems for the baby. “Mom can also have problems with the thyroid after delivery,” explains Dr. Harrison. “You can develop postpartum thyroiditis and have high thyroid levels for one to two months after delivery. This can make you lose weight and feel anxious, shaky and heat intolerant.” From too much thyroid hormone, you can then swing to too little thyroid hormone postpartum. “This can be treated with medication and usually lasts a few months, but 20 percent

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), we don’t know what causes gestational diabetes. But when you have gestational diabetes, hormones created by the placenta to help the baby develop now make it hard for the mother’s body to use the insulin that the pancreas manufactures. “Gestational diabetes occurs in about five to 10 percent of pregnancies,” says Dr. Harrison. “If you are more likely to become diabetic because of individual risk factors, then you are also more prone to develop gestational diabetes. And one of the problems with gestational diabetes can be preeclampsia.” If you’ve developed gestational diabetes, your baby may be large and have problems with low blood sugar after birth. According to the ADA, your baby is also at a higher risk for breathing problems. “Gestational diabetes can also recur in the next pregnancy,” cautions Dr. Harrison, “and about 40 percent of those who develop gestational diabetes will go on to develop Type 2 diabetes. If you develop gestational diabetes, it’s important to follow-up with your doctor and get screened for diabetes post-partum.”

A healthy start

Many hormone-related problems cannot be prevented, but you can increase your chance of a healthy pregnancy by working to improve your health before you become pregnant.

While many of these hormone-related problems cannot be prevented, you can increase your chance of a healthy pregnancy by working to improve your health before you become pregnant. “If you have diabetes, you need to have it very well controlled to become pregnant,” advises Dr. Harrison. “And for all pregnancies, it’s important to be healthy before you get pregnant. That means having a healthy weight and exercising regularly.” By taking care of yourself before you become pregnant, you increase the likelihood that you – and your baby – have a healthy start to a new life.

of women will remain permanently hypothyroid. Even if it resolves, it is likley to recur during a subsequent pregnancy,” adds Dr. Harrison.

A problem with insulin While many people may be unaware of the thyroid’s role in a healthy pregnancy, more people have heard of gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes involves another better-known hormone, insulin.

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Sara Rider is a native Austinite who has worked with physicians and hospitals throughout Texas. She frequently writes freelance articles on health topics for newspapers and magazines.

austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

Education Guide 2014 Private Schools Ace Academy Austin Jewish Academy Cathedral School of Saint Mary’s Challenger School Holy Family Catholic School Hyde Park Baptist Schools Ivy International School, The Jardin de Ninos Interlingua

San Juan Diego Catholic School Santa Cruz Catholic School Smith Academy St. Austin Catholic School St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School St. Francis School St. Gabriel Catholic School St. Helen's Catholic School St. Ignatius, Martyr Catholic School St. Louis Catholic School St. Michael’s Catholic Academy St. Stephen's Episcopal School St. Theresa's Catholic School

3901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin 7300 Hart Ln., Austin 910 San Jacinto, Austin 15101 Avery Ranch Rd., Austin 1521 Joyce Ln., Round Rock 9400 Neenah Ave., Austin 3901 Speedway, Austin 10713 RR 620, Austin 107 RR 620, Ste. 300, Lakeway 8707 Mountain Crest Dr., Austin 2700 W. Anderson Ln., Austin 800 Herndon Ln., Austin 1100 Main St., Buda 11530 Manchaca Rd., Austin 1911 San Antonio St., Austin 9300 Neenah Ave., Austin 300 E. Huntland Dr., Austin 2500 Wimberly Ln., Austin 2700 E. University Ave., Georgetown 120 W. Oltorf, Austin 2114 St. Joseph, Austin 3000 Barton Creek Blvd., Austin 6000 FM3237, Wimberly 4311 Small Dr., Austin

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www.sjdchs.org www.sccstx.org www.smithacademyaustin.com www.staustinschool.org www.saviochs.org www.stfrancis-school.org www.sgs-austin.org www.shcslions.org www.st-ignatius.org/school www.st-louis-school.org www.smca.com/s/85/home.aspx www.ststeveschool.org www.st-theresa.org

Montessori/Preschools/Kindergarten Bluebonnet Montessori Bluebonnet School of Cedar Park Bluebonnet School of Canyon Creek Country Home Learning Center Extend-A-Care Fine Arts Academy Grace Fine Art and Culture Center Nicholson Learning Center Primrose Schools

Rainbow Station Stepping Stone Schools St. Matthews Episcopal Day School

Resources Brain Balance

Lindamood-Bell Learning Center Nets Spark Learning

Successful Schools Match

15099 Debba Dr., Lakeway 3420 El Salido Pkwy., Cedar Park 10321 Boulder L., Austin North Austin South Austin 70 area campuses Allandale 13376 Research Blvd., Austin 12233 RR 620 N., Ste. 201, Austin 3801 Juniper Trace, Austin 2021 Little Elm Tr., Cedar Park 6606 Sitio del Rio Blvd., Austin 2205 Wolf Ranch Pkwy., Georgetown 15925 S. Great Oaks Dr., Round Rock 3313 Forest Creek Dr., Round Rock 12341 Brodie Ln., Austin 4920 Davis Ln., Austin 910 N. Vista Ridge Blvd., Cedar Park 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Cedar Park Locations throughout Austin area 8134 Mesa Dr., Austin

www.eackids.org www.austin-dance.org www.gracefineart.com www.nicholsonececenter.com www.primrosebeecave.com www.primrosecedarparkwest.com www.primrosefourpoints.com www.primrosegeorgetown.com www.primroseroundrock.com www.primroserratforestcreek.com www.primroseshadyhollow.com www.primroseswaustin.com www.primrosevistaridge.com www.rainbowstationaustin.org www.steppingstoneschool.com www.stmatthewsschoolaustin.com

512-266-6626 512-331-9009 512-219-5100 512-331-1141 512-288-8220 512-472-9402 512-419-7611 512-243-6539 512-243-6539 512-263-0388 512-250-2400 512-795-9101 512-868-4000 512-733-2020 512-828-5777 512-282-2341 512-292-7792 512-260-0708 512-260-9700 512-459-0258 512-345-3040

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512-206-4070 512-735-8350 512-476-1480 512-341-8000 512-255-8844 512-246-4455 512-465-8344 512-501-0620 512-466-2409 512-432-5317 512-299-5732 512-804-1935 512-312-2137 512-282-7739 512-477-3751 512-388-8846 512-454-0848 512-327-7755 512-869-3244 512-442-8547 512-454-0384 x245 512-328-2323 512-847-9857 512-451-7105

www.lindamoodbell.com www.netsedu.org www.spark-learning.com

www.successfulschoolsmatch.com

3yrs-12th K-8th PreK3-8th PreK-8th

PreK4-8th K-12th PreSch-2nd Inf-2nd 9th-12th PreK4-8th Inf-5th PreK4-8th 9th-12th PreK-8th JrK-8th PreK4-8th PreK3-8th PreK4-8th 9th-12th PreK3-6th PreK4-8th 3-10yrs Inf-K Inf-K Inf-13yrs

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

Lucky you!

Ten ways to find more good fortune By Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

Trust yourself. Research shows that your brain sees subtle, complex patterns you can’t explain in words. And those unspoken insights can help you make better decisions. Lucky people act on these instincts. Don’t ignore a hunch or silence your internal alarms just because you can’t explain them. You’re smarter than you think. Go with your gut.

Take it all in. Good fortune may be serendipitous, but you have to be open to it. Having a laser-like focus on a specific goal or long to-do list narrows your view. Lucky people find unforeseen windfalls because they explore the scenery instead of sticking strictly to the map. You might find a gorgeous handbag on sale while you browse the mall at lunch or score free theater tickets because you overheard a coworker say she can’t use them. Tune in to your surroundings.

Take risks. Lottery millionaires will tell you: You can’t win if you don’t play. Jackpots aside, there is a larger truth in this. “There are many valid risks in life and we need to be mindful of them. But dwelling on risks can keep us from seeing opportunity,” cautions life coach Margie Warrell, best-selling author of “Find Your Courage” (McGraw Hill, 2008) and “Stop Playing Safe” (Wiley Press, 2013). Push yourself outside your comfort zone. Share your ideas with the boss. Ask for what you really want. Commit to a lofty goal. The biggest risks often yield the biggest rewards. Expect success. Your beliefs about the Smile. Lucky people have lots of friends future have a way of making it and they make connections in surprishappen. Psychologists call this a ing places, like the line at the grocery self-fulfilling prophecy. “Optimism store. Put on a happy face. Make eye fuels bravery,” Warrell says. It allows contact. Stand up straight, with Sometimes it feels like the universe is against you. us to act boldly in the face of fear or arms relaxed, not crossed in front of The baby isn’t sleeping. You didn’t get the promotion uncertainty, without worrying about you. Strong, open postures invite inat work. Car repairs cost more than the estimate. whether we’ll look foolish. Don't teraction. Be brave and initiate conThen the water heater exploded, flooding your wait to feel brave before you take versation. Listen for points of house again. action. Confidence grows when connection and pursue them. you put yourself If a string of bad luck has you singing the blues, it’s time to out there. Reach out. You don’t have to be in all the change your tune. Studies show you can make more good forright places at all the right times if you’re tune for yourself! Here are 10 ways to get luckier: well-connected. Lucky people talk about their goals and accept help from others. You might mention you’re interQuiet down. Tap into your intuition by spending time alone. Write ested in going to cooking school only to learn that your in a journal. Make a dream board or collage. Putter in the garden. friend’s aunt is a trained chef. Soon, she’s giving you adMeditate. Lucky people are in touch with their own feelings. Break missions advice. Make a little noise about your ambitions free from distractions that clutter your mental landscape for a few – the universe is listening. minutes each day. The path ahead will be much clearer.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Stay positive. One person’s bitter disappointment is another person’s golden opportunity. You can’t make your own good fortune if you are focused on what’s wrong with the world or with yourself. “By being optimistic we can find opportunity in adversity and take actions that our pessimistic friends wouldn't bother to take. In turn we create new opportunities for ourselves,” says Warrell. Always look at possibilities through a positive lens.

them long after unlucky people give up. When you experience setbacks, change your strategy and keep moving forward. Good things come to those who don’t quit. Be grateful. Who feels luckier: the athlete who won the silver medal or the athlete who won the bronze? That’s right. The third-place finisher feels luckier because she knows she might have

come in fourth. The silver-medal winner is focused on missing out on gold. No matter how bad you think you have it, someone has it worse. Celebrate big wins and small victories. They’re all good.

Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. is a personality psychologist and mom who believes you bring your own weather to life’s picnic.

Good fortune may be serendipitous, but you have to be open to it. When you experience setbacks, change your strategy and keep moving forward. Good things come to those who don’t quit. Try again. Lucky people aren’t lucky all the time. But they don’t let unhappy outcomes mess with their mojo. “Lucky people’s high expectations motivate them to persist” even when they don’t succeed, says psychologist Richard Wiseman, Ph.D., author of “The Luck Factor” (Miramax, 2003). Lucky people choose more challenging puzzles and they continue to work on

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

continued from page 19

AF: If you had a completely free day, what would you do with your time? MK: I’d probably head to the gym for a workout, either swim or hop on a bike ride, then get back home, wake up the family (assuming they would still be sleeping – they’re going to kill me for saying that) and head out to lunch with them. I’d play a game of basketball in our driveway with our kids, then accompany Tracy wherever she would want to go. If any spare time is left, I’d finally update my playlist on my iPod. I’ve had the same songs on it for years. AF: Is there anything you’d like to share with Austin Family readers? MK: It’s never too late or too early to learn to swim. It is a life-saving skill that EVERY person needs. Look for Nitro to be adding free water time for parents and their young kiddos (under 6 months of age) to get them acclimated to the water environment. Studies are now showing that neurological development occurs faster in young swimmers than non-swimmers, and we’re on the leading edge of that. Hope to see you soon!!

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

The perfect

PLATE

natural food and grocery stores. Also, sucking on ice cubes made of coconut water or weak red raspberry leaf tea can also help nausea while replacing some lost electrolytes.

Diarrhea While some women struggle with constipation throughout their pregnancies, you might experience the opposite extreme. This could be caused by an increase in exercise, diet changes or even as a result of taking prenatal vitamins.

Natural remedies for common pregnancy ailments

By Sarah Lindsey

Glowing skin, doubled cup-size and shiny hair are all commonly touted as positive side effects of pregnancy. But other pregnancy symptoms are usually kept quiet, like hemorrhoids, yeast infections and constipation. You know, the things no one ever really talks about when mentioning the lovely glow. The good news is that there are simple, natural remedies for these common pregnancy ailments… and you can find them all at your grocery store.

Constipation Your gestating body experiences an increase in progesterone, which causes digestion to slow down and intestinal muscles to relax. Also, your growing baby applies pressure to your lower abdomen and intestines, which can result in a fecal blockage. Vitamin supplements are also known to cause constipation, especially if the doctor prescribes that you take several together (such as iron, calcium and other prenatal vitamins). Remedy: The best solution for constipation is to avoid it in the first place. Do this by staying hydrated (drink at least eight cups of water daily), eating a well-balanced diet (full of fruits, veggies and whole grains) and getting plenty of exercise. If it’s already too late, then try drinking a glass of prune juice, increasing your fiber and fluid intake and taking a warm bath.

Heartburn Hormonal variations, such as the aforementioned increase in progesterone, are 30

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

to blame for that horrible burning sensation in your throat and chest. The valve that normally prevents stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus relaxes, causing irritation. As your baby grows, an increasing amount of pressure is placed on your stomach and intestines, thereby passing stomach acids into your esophagus and causing heartburn. Remedy: Ginger, ginger and ginger. Try brewing a nice, hot cup of tea. If you find warm drinks difficult to stomach, then consider a cold glass of ginger ale. You could also try snacking on ginger candy or ginger snaps. Another option is to take a papaya supplement with meals.

Morning sickness and nausea While no one really knows what causes “morning sickness” or nausea, it is likely a result of rapidly increasing hormones. An enhanced sense of smell and a sensitive stomach also contribute to the problem. Some women experience nausea as a direct result of taking prenatal vitamins. Remedy: A simple switch from taking your vitamin supplements in the morning to taking them at night can sometimes solve the problem, because by the time the queasiness kicks in, you will already by snoozing. The remedies for curing heartburn – ginger and papaya – also work wonders for curing morning sickness. Emily Streich, LM, CPM and instructor at Bastyr University, says that if you are vomiting, fluid replacement and electrolyte replacement are important. An alternative to Gatorade is coconut water, which can be found in many

Remedy: While these suggestions don’t make diarrhea go away, they will help you through the nasty experience. Plenty of water is necessary to keep you from getting dehydrated. Put down your pickles and ice cream and start eating the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and toast). Streich says, “Pumpkin is also a veggie that contains a lot of fiber and can be very good at firming stools, and finally, yogurt contains many good probiotic bacteria, which can help the digestive system.”

ginger

THE PREGGO MAMA’S SUPERFOOD:

Studies have shown ginger to be effective in relieving nausea and morning sickness. Emily Streich, LM, CPM and instructor at Bastyr University shares different ways of adding ginger into your diet: - Use fresh grated ginger in cooking (especially good in stirfries!) - Drink tea made from simmering fresh ginger in water for 10-20 minutes - Use powdered ginger in baking or cooking - Take ginger capsules

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Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids, blood vessels that become swollen, most often appear as a result of straining due to constipation. Remedy: “Trying to keep stools soft is the key to not worsening them, so make sure there is adequate fiber and water in the diet, and stop processed foods,” advises Streich. Eating chilled witch hazel packs or soaking in a warm sitz bath can help alleviate the pain. Streich suggests holding a (cool) black tea bag on the area, which soothes and helps shrink them. You could also cut a potato in half and hold it on the area for the same effect.

milk.) Streich says that miso, kimchi and sauerkraut contain beneficial bacteria as well. Yeast feeds on sugar, so reduce your sugar intake while battling a yeast infection.

Itchy Skin Higher estrogen levels and stretched skin are at the root of your constant itch. Remedy: The best way to turn off the itch is to add more essential fatty acids to your diet. Streich explains, “These can be in the form of fish oils from fatty fish that are low in heavy metals and toxins such as sardines, wild salmon and anchovies, or a plant-based source such as flaxseed or flax oil.”

Yeast infection Due to higher estrogen levels during pregnancy, your vagina produces more glycogen, which creates a breeding ground for yeast. Remedy: Increase your dietary intake of foods containing live-active yogurt cultures (such as cottage cheese, yogurt and Kefir

As you may have noticed, eating the right foods can prevent most of these ailments from even occurring. Streich notes the importance of maintaining a healthy and varied diet, since it forms “the building blocks used to grow a baby and keep the mother strong and healthy through the pregnancy, birth and beyond."

Sarah Lindsey is a mom of four young children and a freelance writer specializing in family nutrition.

HYDE PARK SCHOOLS Austin, Texas

Did you know? HP Kindergarten students rank in the Top 15% in the nation in standardized testing. Hyde Park issues a Dell Latitude tablet to each 6th-12th grade student, integrating technology into the classroom. The past three classes of HP grads have been offered over $8,540,000 in scholarships and grants. This year, HP Varsity Football Team reached the State Semi-finals.

January Admissions Events HP High School Preview January 28, 6:00pm

HP 4K to 8th Grade Preview January 30, 6:00pm

RSVP Today! admissions@hp-schools.org

4K-12th Grade. Christ-Centered. College Prep.

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

Smart

Screen Time This is the last in a five-part series discussing KLRU’s Smart Screen Time™ initiative, an outreach effort encouraging healthy practices in a world full of digital media. We at KLRU are very proud of the status of PBS as the most-trusted media outlet in the country. We take that trust very seriously, since as a non-commercial media producer and distributor, we rely on the contributions of viewers to remain on-air, online and in the community. As a professional educator, I am also thrilled with the research that goes into our PBS Kids programming, including the shows, the online resources and apps. This research goes beyond whether programs are entertaining (the key factor for most other children’s programming) to ask whether kids are able to learn from our characters and programs.

Focus On Doctors

Dr. Will Garner Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care Dr. Garner earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. In 2008, he completed his pediatric residency at the UT Health Science Center San Antonio. He couldn't wait to return to Austin where he earned his bachelor's degree at UT. He is excited to join the Little Spurs team bringing pediatricfocused urgent care to the Austin area. See ad on page 20

Dr. Betty Richardson Dr. Richardson earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing, and a PhD in psych/mental health nursing. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional counselor. She has over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. See ad on page 28

Dr. Hana Zibdeh-Lough Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care Dr. Zibdeh-Lough attended medical school at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency at the West Virginia University Charleston Area Medical Center. She is board certified in pediatrics and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She has experience in urgent care medicine and enjoys caring for children of all ages. See ad on page 20

I am still a relative newcomer to the world of media, and in many ways, I have held onto my mindset of the classroom. With that perspective, I have learned to say to my media colleagues that none of our educational programming achieves its full potential until kids move off of the programs and games to the real-world skills they are meant to foster, and chief among those skills is reading. The bulk of our PBS Kids programs build literacy skills, so it makes sense that we want to encourage daily reading. But there’s another factor to consider – as good as we are as a provider of educational media, we still don’t come close to the efficiency and effectiveness of reading for developing vocabulary and language structures, and for immersing kids in new kinds of worlds and concepts. For kids who don’t gravitate naturally to reading as a leisure activity, I suggest that you help them find books that connect directly to programs they like (such as “Curious George” and the “Cat in the Hat”) or that connect thematically to our shows (like animal books based upon an interest in the “Wild Kratts”). Happy New Year, happy viewing and happy reading!

Part 5 of 5 from KLRU-TV, AUSTIN PBS To read all five tips, visit klrukids.org and click on the Smart Screen Time button. Benjamin Kramer, Ph.D., is the Director of Education for KLRUTV, Austin PBS. He has been a professional educator for over 20 years and had a black and white TV in his room when he was a kid (not a “smart” move, Mom and Dad). 32

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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Camp Guide Camp Guide

Camp Guide

Summer Camp Guide 2014 DAY CAMPS Pages 34-46 OVERNIGHT CAMPS Pages 46-48

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

DAY CAMPS Art & Soul 3801 Berkman Dr., Ste. 1A 512-820-1449 www.artandsoulclasses.com Ages 3 yrs through adult Inspiration, creativity and pride. Austin Film Festival 512-478-4795 www.austinfilmfestival.com/young-filmmakersprogram/summer-film-camp/ Ages 9 - 18 Summer film camp presented by Austin Film Festival’s Young Filmmaker’s Program offering screenwriting, filmmaking and claymation workshops for aspiring filmmakers under the guidance of industry professionals. Austin Girls’ Choir Summer Camp 512-453-0884 www.girlschoir.com Ages 8 - 16 Watch for details on our summer program.

Check out austinfamily.com for Premium Camp descriptions

Austin Sports Arena 3918 Gattis School Rd. Bldg. 2, Round Rock 512-251-7500 www.austinsportsarena.com Soccer for kids ages 18 months to 6 years. Austin Waldorf School Summer Camps 8700 South View Rd. 512-288-5942 x252 www.austinwaldorf.org/summercamp Ages 4 - 18 Quality day camps with extended care available. The caring staff at Summergarden and Camp Roadrunner will engage your child’s imagination in a wholesome, beautiful setting.

Austin International School 4001 Adelphi Lane 512-331-7806, ext. 6 http://www.austininternationalschool.org/ Ages 3 - 12 Our trilingual education empowers children to become independent thinkers with a deeper appreciation for cultural differences. Let your child experience our Austin Yacht Club Lake Travis innovative and multicultural approach! 5906 Beacon Dr. 512-266-1336 www.austinyachtclub.net

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Ages 4 - 16 Summertime means fun, sun, and sailing at the Austin Yacht Club! Learn to sail this summer at AYC’s Junior Sailing Day Camp or PB&J Series! Austin Zoo / Zoo Academy 10808 Rawhide Tr. 512-288-1490 www.austinzoo.org Ages K - 12th grade Let your kids go wild with fun and enriching activities. Badgerdog Creative Writing Summer Camp Various locations across Austin 512-542-0076 www.austinlibrary.org Ages rising 3rd - 12th grade Led by professional writers, campers create poetry and fiction in a fun and creative environment. Camp concludes with a beautiful publication of student work.

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Bits, Bytes & Bots Computer Adventures Various locations throughout Austin 512-415-4120 www.austintx.bitsbytesbots.com Ages 6 - 14 Fun-filled technology education programs in LEGO® NXT® Robotics, LEGO® WeDo® Robotics, computergame creation, stop-motion animation, moviemaking and Minecraft®programming.

Cameron Equestrian 15 minutes north of downtown Austin 512-272-4301 www.austinhorse.com Ages 5 - 15 Eleven weekly sessions, daily horse-related games and activities, indoor horse arena; fun, active, affordable.

vanessa@artandsoulclasses.com www.artandsoulclasses.com

CALL NOW! 512-820-1449

Camp Champions Marble Falls, TX 830-598-2571 www.campchampions.com Ages 6 - 17 Set on beautiful Lake LBJ, with a tradition of excellence since 1967. We have fantastic activities and the best trained counselors in the camp industry.

Camp Guide

Bricks 4 Kidz Creativity Center LaFrontera Village 512-388-9003 www.bricks4kidz.com/atx Ages 5 - 13 Build LEGO Brick models that move! Round Rock Creativity Center in La Frontera. Come learn, build and play with our weekly themed sessions and unique LEGO Brick models and activities.

Creativity Inspiration & Wine Events Friday and Saturday Evenings from 7:00 -10:00pm! artandsoulclasses.eventbrite.com Bring a friend and your favorite bottle of wine and create a beautiful acrylic painting! Summer camps in June July & August will be available. Birthday Parties, Painting & Wine and Corporate Team-Building classes.

Camp Guide

Café Monet, Summer Art Westgate Shopping Center and The Triangle, Austin, San Marcos 512-892-3200, 512-906-2200, 512-805-2800 www.cafemonet.org Ages 6 and up Art Camp @ Café Monet is a hands-on lesson in creativity! Pottery painting, mosaics, clay building, green projects and more! We offer four curricula.

3801 Berkman Dr. Suite A Austin, Texas 78723 Art classes for children 3-years-old through adults. Sign Up Now!

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Bear Creek Stables 13017 Bob Johnson Rd., Manchaca 512-282-0250 www.bearcreekstables.com Ages 7 - 16 Great summer fun and equine education! Riding and hands-on horse time daily, along with arts and swimming! Certified camp with experienced and educated staff.

NEW ART STUDIO!

Camp Guide

Bricks 4 Kidz NW Austin, Westlake North West Austin & Westlake 512-773-5459 www.bricks4kidz.com/nwaustin Ages 5 - 13 Build motorized Bricks 4 Kidz models using LEGO bricks daily. Stop-action camps include hands-on use of technology. Half- and full-day camps available.

Camp Guide

Ballet Austin Summer Camps Multiple camp locations 512-476-9051 x138 www.balletaustin.org Ages 4 -10 Performing arts for ages 4 - 8, theatre experience for ages 5 - 10, dance discoveries for ages 5 - 10.

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Camp Guide Camp Guide Camp Guide

austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

Camp Guide

Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

Camp Guide Camp Guide

Camp Doublecreek Round Rock 512-255-3661 www.campdoublecreek.com Ages 4 - 14 Voted “Best Day Camp” for eight years, this familyowned day camp offers a variety of activities for boys and girls. Free transportation to and from camp.

Camp Guide

Camp Fire Summer Camp 1605 E. 38th ½ Street 512-349-2111 www.camp-fire.org Ages 5 - 12 Camp Fire summer camp is seven weeks of fun and discovery in nature! Each week features a unique theme related to science and the environment.

Camp Guide

Camp Gan Kef 512-419-0278 www.shalomaustin.org/camps Ages preschool and up Exciting themed JCC summer camps at convenient location on Anderson Lane.

Camp Guide

Camp Invention Locations throughout Austin 800-968-4332 www.campinvention.org Ages entering 1st - 6th grade Camp Invention is an amazing weeklong summer adventure where children will brainstorm, tinker, create and invent without limits, inspiring them not just for a day or a week, but for a lifetime.

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Capital Gymnastics Summer Fun 409 Kingston Lacy Blvd. Pflugerville 512-251-2439 6001 W Parmer Ln, #430 512-219-9930 504 Denali Pass, Cedar Park 512-259-9995 capgym.com Ages 3 & up Camp sessions and classes all summer long. Gymnastics, healthy and exciting activities, field trips, sports, swimming, and much more (activities vary among locations).

Camp Guide

Ceramics Bayou Summer Camps 3620 Bee Caves Rd. 512-328-1168 www.ceramicsbayou.com Ages preschool - middle school Are you looking for a whole new creative experience this summer? Spend your summer days with us!

Camp Guide

Chaparral Ice Center Summer Camp Programs 512-252-8500 www.chaparralice.com Camp Avalanche for ages 7 - 12 Camp De Champs for ages 6 - 12 Action-packed, activity-filled days. Themed camps include weekly field trips, swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, soccer, volleyball, basketball and of course, daily skating!

Camp Guide

continued on page 38

Camp Guide Camp Guide Camp Guide

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Camp Guide

Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

Camp Guide Camp Guide

Children's Center of Austin 8100 Bee Cave Rd. 512-329-6633 7507 Jester Blvd. 512-795-8300 4308 N. Quinlan Park Rd. 512-266-6130 www.childrenscenterofaustin.com Ages 5 - 8 Our summer camp is full of excitement, including daily field trips, daily swimming, arts, crafts, cooking, science projects and more!

Camp Guide

Country Home Learning Center North Austin and South Austin 512-331-1441, 512-288-8220 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Ages 5 - 13 An exceptional summer program including weekly field trips to exciting destinations, specialized curriculum units and the enjoyment of our own water park, indoor playground, soda shop and much more!

Camp Guide

Creative Action 2014 Camps Central Austin, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Circle C 512-442-8773 www.creativeaction.org Ages 5 - 12 We offer theatre, dance, music, puppetry, film, visual arts and more.

Curious Einstein Academic Enrichment Camps Multiple Locations in Austin area 512-808-0103 www.CuriousEinstein.com Ages 6 - 12 We provide fun, academic enrichment summer camps taught by popular Texas Certified teachers. We encourage continuous summer learning through computers, online resources and hands-on activities. Dance Discovery Allendale and Avery Ranch 512-419-7611, 512- 658-2996 www.dancediscovery.com www.averyranchdance.com Ages 3 - 10 All camps are week-long and include ballet, jazz, creative movement, theatre arts, prop design and outdoor play. Register online or by phone. Dancers Workshop 2014 11150 Research Blvd., Ste. 107 512-349-7197 www.dancersworkshopaustin.com Ages 2 and up Dancers Workshop summer camps are full of creativity and fun. Costumed shows conclude each camp. Sign up today for a week your child wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget. Digital Media UT Campus 866-526-6854 www.digitalmediaacademy.org Ages 6 - 17

Camp Guide

continued on page 40

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Camp Guide

D THIS A H I H S I “I W A KID.” S A W I N t WHE h U Paren –Moola

From day one, kids learn how to make and appreciate money by starting a business together in a fun, kid-driven, interactive environment.

)NFANTS 0RESCHOOL %LEMENTARY + ND GR s &ULL 4IME 0ART 4ime Programs

AND THEY KEEP ALL THE MONEY THEY MAKE!

Our school offers full Spanish immersion from Infants to 4 years of age. Starting at age 4 years we incorporate a dual language program that includes Mandarin & French. Our Focus: Language, Students, Arts, Diversity, Math, Science, Social Studies, & Technology From the head of school:

,AKEWAY 107 RR 620, Ste. 300

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SUMMER CAMPS VER A USTIN ALL OVER AUSTIN

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A Week-Long Week-Long Business CampThey·ll CampTh ey·ll Never Never Forget. Ne Forget.

3OUTH 8707 Mountain Crest Dr.

.ORTH 2700 West Anderson Ln. Ste. 601

3-8851 (512) 44

/0%. (/53% AM PM s *AN &EB AT ALL LOCATIONS Join us on January 18th from 10am-2pm for a Fun Filled Family Festival celebrating our 1 year anniversary in Lakeway! Lots of games and prizes for children!

Educating for the transformation of our world

Official World School

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om MoolahU.c

www.austinbilingualschool.com

512-974-4040 1110 Barton Springs Rd, 78704

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SUMMER ZOOCADEMY

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SUMMER CAMP

2D ART 3D ART ART DRAMA DIGIT DIGITAL AL AR ARTT

Camp Guide

Summer Arts Adventure Ages 5-6 Ages 7-8 Born For Ar t! (BF (BFA) A) 9-12 Ages 9-1 2 Made For Ar t! (MFA) Call the Registration Registration Office Office at 512-974-4040 for more info

ARTS SCHOOL

www w.. a u s t i n t e x a s . g o v / D o u g h e r t y

Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

512.288.1490 • www.AustinZoo.org 10808 Rawhide Rawhide Trail, Trail, Austin, Austin, TX 78736 78736 Mailing Address: Address: P.O. P.O. Box Box 91808 Austin, 78709 A ustin, TX 7 8709

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Camp Guide

DOUGHERTY DOUGHER TY

Camp Guide

From the head of school: I am honored to begin my 6th year as founder and head of Jardín de Niños Interlingua and to lead a successful 2013-14 school year. When you first come to JDNI, you will sense the vibrancy of adventure in the halls and the wonder of discovery in the classrooms as students and faculty engage in authentic, critical thinking. I welcome you to tour the school and learn more about our amazing program. We are proud to announce that JDNI has been authorized as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP). As an accredited IB World School, JDNI is now part of a global community of schools committed to developing knowledgeable, caring young people who will be ready to negotiate their futures successfully and make contributions resulting in a more harmonious and peaceful world.

Camp Guide Camp Guide

Dougherty Arts School Summer Camps 1110 Barton Springs Rd. 512-974-4040 www.doughertyartscenter.org Ages 5 - 12 The Dougherty Arts School offers summer camps that have different themes for each two-week session. Registration is now open.

Camp Guide

Emler Swim 10700 Anderson Mill Rd. 4615 Bee Caves Rd. 512-342-SWIM, 512-327-SWIM www.iswimemler.com Ages 6 months to adult USSSA infant swimming certified, indoor pool. Birthday parties available.

Camp Guide

Extend-A-Care for Kids Summer Day Camp 10 locations in elementary schools in the Austin area (AISD, DVISD, HCISD) 512-472-9402 www.eackids.org Ages 3 - 12 years old Weekly sessions consisting of softball, basketball, soccer, field trips, swimming, cooking, games and puzzles, reading and literacy activities, arts and crafts and more. Weekly themes are based on literature.

Camp Guide

Girlstart STEM Center 1400 W. Anderson Lane 512-916-4776 www.girlstart.org Ages 4th - 8th grade Girlstart offers week-long summer day camps in science, technology and math just for GIRLS! Pet Vet, CSI girls and more.

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

Camp Guide

continued on page 42

Camp Guide

Iron Horse Country RanchMotorcycle Summer Camp North Austin-pickups Cedar Park, Steiner and Georgetown schools 512-917-5733 www.ironhorsecountry.com Ages 8 - 15 One of the only motorcycle camps for kids in the country. Our highly trained staff will help your beginner rider. We supply motorcycle, gear, training and fun.

Lemonade Day Austin Central Texas 512-569-6947 austin.lemonadeday.org Ages 8 - 13 A free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches kids how to start, own and operate their own business - a lemonade stand.

Camp Guide

Heartsong Music 2700 West Anderson Ln., Ste. 320 512-371-9506 www.HeartsongMusic.net Age birth to 7 years Our classes will nurture your child's musical development as well as support their cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development and build their confidence and self-esteem!

Camp Guide

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

Camp Guide

Kids Acting 14 locations throughout Austin 512-836-KIDS www.kidsactingstudio.com Ages 4 - 19 Full scale productions, fun classes.

Camp Guide Camp Guide Camp Guide

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Camp Guide

Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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McKinney Roughs Nature Camp 1884 SH 71 West, Cedar Creek 512-303-5073 www.lcra.org/naturecamps Ages 6 - 15 Explore the outdoors on 1,100 acres of woodland prairies and pine forest; nature study and exploration, wilderness skills, swimming, challenge course, raft trips, hikes. Austin shuttle available.

Camp Guide

Moolah U Camp Locations throughout Austin 512-443-8851 www.moolahu.com Ages 8 - 15 Kids become business owners for the week! Campers start a company together, create a product, sell it and share the profit. Here’s a fun way to learn about money.

Camp Guide

Nitro Swim Center Cedar Park/Round Rock, Bee Cave on Hwy. 71 512-259-7999 www.nitroswim.com Ages 6 months - adult The indoor Nitro Swim Center offers the highest quality swim lessons, non-competitive and competitive swimming around.

Primrose Schools Summer Camp Bee Cave, Cedar Park West, Four Points, Georgetown, Round Rock, Round Rock @ Forest Creek, Shady Hollow, Southwest Austin, Vista Ridge www.primroseschools.com Ages inf - after school Adventure awaits this summer as your child explores something new each day at Camp Primrose. Quest ATX 10815 FM 1625 512-298-9370 Questatx.com Ages 6 - 16 QuestATX offers a summer water sports camp. Your child will learn to wakeboard, kneeboard and water-ski in a fun, supportive environment from our experienced and professional staff. Rainbow Station’s The Village Summer Program 11651 W. Parmer Ln., Cedar Park 512-260-9700 www.rainbowstationaustin.org Ages infant - 12 An entire facility dedicated to school-age children. Fullday camp offers weekly mini courses, swim lessons, sports, weekly field trips and an end-of-summer picnic. Freedom of choice is the hallmark of our summer program.

Camp Guide

Paramount Academy for the Arts Summer Camps The Paramount Theatre 512-692-0524 www.austintheatre.org/camps Ages 4 – 18 Make lifelong memories at the Paramount and Stateside Theatres!

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Stepping Stone School Summer Adventure Camp 12 Austin-area locations 512-459-0258 www.steppingstoneschool.com Ages 6 - 11 SSS’s summer camp program keeps your child’s body and mind active all summer long! Our variety of weekly themes, field journeys, enrichments and other activities are designed to continue cognitive and physical development – and to be so much fun, children will never know they’re still learning!

Camp Guide Camp Guide

Soccer for Kids Lil’ Kickers 1220 Toro Grande Dr., Cedar Park 1404 Royston Ln., Round Rock 512-887-2899 www.lilkickersaustin.com Ages 18 months - 11 years Kick-start life skills with soccer!

Spicewood Country Camp 6102 Spicewood Springs 512-346-2992 www.spicewoodcountry.com scschool@flash.net Ages 3½ - 10 Nine shady acres in Northwest Austin with animals, music, swimming, crafts, sports and horseback riding. For 33 years, geared toward younger children.

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Smith Academy 11530 Manchaca Rd. 512 282-7739 www.smithacademyaustin.com Ages 5 years - 6th grade This program is for active children and provides a fun-filled and rewarding summer vacation. We also provide academic review and reading time daily.

Spanish Immersion Summer Camp Jardin de Ninos Interlingua North, Lakeway and South 512-299-5731, 512-466-2409, 512-432-5317 www.austinbilingualschool.com Ages K - 5th grade Learn in a fun program, fully immersed in the Spanish language as a natural environment.

Camp Guide

SeaWorld Summer Camps San Antonio 800-700-7786 www.seaworld.com Ages 1 - 12 Day camps offered; "Let's Get Wet" ages 5-12, "Ocean Quest" ages 5-12, "Shamu's Sea School" ages 3-4, "Shamu's Stroller Club ages 1-2, and "Small Wonders" ages 3-4.

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 camp. Daily lessons taught by professional trainers, lots of horse time/care, arts and crafts, swimming for hotter afternoons. Friday horse shows for parents to attend.

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Ballet s Pointe s Tap s Jazz s Hip Hop s Contemporary

Camp Guide Camp Guide Camp Guide

Expanding in January to offer more classes! s Instructional classes ages 2 and up s Preschool classes include dance, creative movement, music, gymnastics and theatre s Creative s Creative Movement classes for special needs children s Award winning Synergy Dance Company s Professional, experienced staff www.synergydancestudio.com Drill Team s Acro Dance s Gymnastics s Music s Theatre Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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512-327-4130

3425 Bee Cave Road

Camp Guide Camp Guide

Summer Wonders 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd. 512-203-4540 www.summerwonders.org Ages 4 - 14 A non-profit program for gifted students to explore diverse subjects through an integrated, hands-on approach, presented in a fun, creative manner.

Camp Guide

Switch Willo Stables Sumer Camps 4829 Switch Willo 512-331-8668 www.switchwillo.com Ages 6 - 14 Daily riding instruction, horse care and fun. An Austin Family Readers' Poll Favorite. Visit our website for more details.

Camp Guide

Synergy Dance 3425 Bee Cave Rd. 512-327-4130 www.synergydancestudio.com Ages 3 - 16 Dance and creative arts camps including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, gymnastics, theatre, acting, art and fun crafts with a performance on Friday.

Camp Guide

TexARTS Summer Camps Doherty Family Studios, 2300 Lohman's Spur #160 512-852-9079 x104 www.tex-arts.org Ages 2 - 18 TexARTS, a nonprofit organization, offers full- and half-day and mini camps in acting, voice, dance and visual arts as well as a three-week musical theatre intensive. Instructors include Broadway and professional performers.

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Camp Guide

The Thinkery Summer Camps 1830 Simond Ave. 512-472-2499 x201 www.thinkeryaustin.org Ages 4 - 10 ACM offers week-long camps that include a wide variety of themes. Check online for more information.

Camp Guide

Summer S ummer 2014

Camp Guide

YMCA Summer Day Camps 22 Summer camp locations 512-236-YMCA www.austinymca.org Ages 4 - 14 The YMCA offers 20 individual camps for children. Visit online for locations, descriptions and calendar.

PARAMOUNT PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS FOR KIDS AGE 4 THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL

Camp Guide

Wonder-Science Computer & Technology Camp www.wstechcamp.com 877-972-2671 Ages 7 - 17 Explore the depths of technology! From designing a computer game to building a computer, we have something for everyone. All experience levels welcome.

Camp Guide

Tom’s Dive and Swim 5909 Burnet Rd. 512-451-3425 www.austinswim.com Ages 6 months and up Come learn to swim with us at Tom’s where we don’t just teach swim lessons, we teach life lessons.

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Bear Creek Stables 32 Years Experience Creating Summer Fun & Learning!

Camp Guide

OPEN HOUSE: Feb. 22 & Apr. 19 1:30-3:30 pm

Spring Break Camp March 10–14 s Two Riding Lessons Daily

Summer Camp AGES 7-16 June–August 2014 8:00-4:00

Shady Indoor Arena

Camp Guide

Swimming s No Rain Outs! English & Western Trails & Demonstrations

282-0250 Easy Online Registration www.bearcreekstables.com

Texas Certified Elementary School Teachers.

Fun SPECIALS ďǇ ǁĞĞŬ͙'ĂŵĞ ĚĞƐŝŐŶ͕ ZĞŶĞǁĂďůĞ Energy Geography Website creation & more

www.CuriousEinstein.com curious@CuriousEinstei ein n.com (512) 808-0103

Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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Camp Guide

2014 Camp Fair Sponsor

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Educational Enrichme Aftter School Programs Af

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YMCA of Greater Williamson County Summer Camps www.ymcagwc.org 1812 N. Mays St., Round Rock 512-246-9622 101 Anthony St., Hutto 512-846-2360 1601 S. Water St., Burnet 512-756-6180 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park 512-250-9622 1812 N. Mays St., Round Rock 512-615-5563 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.

Camp Guide

Yoga Camp: Peace, Love & FUN The Little Yoga House 1211 Parkway 512-861-5639 www.thelittleyogahouse.com Ages 3 - 12 Enjoy weeks of rejuvenating fun for your children during summer break. There will be dancing, singing, relaxing, stretching

Camp Heart O’ the Hills 30 Hwy 39, Hunt, TX 830-238-4650 www.hohcamp.com Ages 6 - 16 Ragsdale family-owned and operated, air-conditioned, Guadalupe River, family-style meals, character-building and skill Camp Rio Vista for Boys Ingram, TX 800-545-3233 www.vistacamps.com Ages 6 - 16 One of Texas’ top summer camps located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Camp Sierra Vista for Girls Ingram, TX 800-545-3233 www.vistacamps.com Ages 6 - 16 Your daughter can enjoy one of Texas’ top summer camps close to home in the Texas Hill Country. Camp Stewart Hunt, TX 830-238-4670 www.campstewart.com Ages 6 - 16 For over 80 years, traditional summer camping at its best for boys. Outstanding facilities, exciting and varied activities, qualified counselors and protected environment.

Rocky River Ranch Wimberley, TX 512-847-2513 www.rockyriverranch.com Ages 7 - 14 Rocky River Ranch is a rustic, residential camp for girls in Wimberley, the heart of the Texas Hill Country. SeaWorld Camps San Antonio 800-700-7786 www.seaworld.com Ages all "Advanced Career Camp" grades 10-12 "Career Camp" grades 9-12 "Counselor in Training" grades 11-12 "Expedition Camp" grades 5-8 PLUS Camp for college kids, teachers, and adults. Sugar & Spice Ranch Camp Bandera,TX 830-460-8487 www.texashorsecamps.com Ages 5 and up Bonding mothers and daughters through horses. You and your daughter will own horses for a week and do everything together as a team. All-inclusive week-long session, and a great way to reconnect with each other.

Camp Guide

ZACH Theatre Performing Arts Camps 1510 Toomey Rd. 512-476-0594 x236 www.zachtheatre.org Ages 3 - 18 ACT at ZACH! Explore acting, improvisation, singing and dancing. Put on a fun show for family and friends!

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

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Creative Writing Summer Camp Campers learn the art of poetry and fiction from professional writers in a fun & creative environment. All campers are published in a professional anthology & camp concludes with a student reading and book signing at the Austin Teen Book Festival. (Spring Break workshops also available.)

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CAMPS

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R SUMME

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For more information, visit www.austinlibrary.org.

Camp Guide

Live On Stage! FAMILY SHOWS AT TEXARTS

Camp Guide

Youth Musical Theatre

Jan. 11-12 & 18-19 at 2 & 6 pm

Camp Guide

Teen Musical Theatre

Feb. 1-2 & 8-9 at 1 & 6 pm Kam & James Morris Theatre at TexARTS

tex-arts.org 512.852.9079 x101 Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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TICKETS: $15

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Where Where big big ideas ideas become become the the next next big big thing. thing.

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Camp Invention inspires confidence in curious children like yours. Not just for a day or a week, but for a lifetime.

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Act Act Now Now to Save Save Big. $25 o oﬀ ﬀ thr through ough March 28. Sign up at CAMPINVENTION.ORG Br Brought ought to your c community ommunity by local educator educators. s.

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| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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calendar 1/14 family events: page 49 parenting events: page 54 storytimes: page 52 exhibits visit: www.austinfamily.com

What’s the Story Steve? Steve for the Holidays 10 a.m. Family-friendly improv comedy. ColdTowne Theater, 4803 Airport Blvd. moveyourtale.org or 512-814-TOWN.

Sunday 5 Free First Sundays Noon to 6 p.m. Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress. thestoryftexas.com or 512-936-8746. Kids in the Garden 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Monument Garden at Monument Cafe, 500 Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. RSVP 512-240-4715 by 1 p.m.

Wednesday 1 New Year’s Day Polar Bear Splash 1 to 2:30 p.m. Gregg-Clarke Park, 1100 W. Center St., Kyle. FREE admission. cityofkyle.com or 512-262-3939. Pfreeze Pflop 10 a.m. Scott Mentzer Pool, 901 Old Austin-Hutto Rd., Pflugerville. FREE with a canned food item. pflugervilletx.gov. Health Expo 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Twin Lakes Family YMCA, 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park. ymcagwc.org or 512-250-9622. Wednesday Night Contra Dancing 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Everyone welcome. Hancock Recreation Center, 811 E. 41st St. FREE. austinbarndancers.org or 512-453-4225. Community Nights 5 to 8 p.m. The Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Admission is donation only, with a suggested $1 donation. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200. Free Admission to the Wildflower Center Free admission the entire month of January. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 LaCrosse Dr. wildflower.org or 512-232-0100.

Thursday 2 Mario Kart Family Gaming Tournament 4 p.m. Pleasant Hill Branch, 211 E. William Cannon Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3940. Lego Lab 5:30 p.m. Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500. First Thursday All day to 10 p.m. South Congress Ave. from Barton Springs Rd. to Elizabeth St. firstthursday.info.

Saturday 4 Mario Kart Family Gaming Tournament 2 p.m. Carver Branch, 1161 Angelina St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-1010. Chess Club 12 p.m. Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8840. Mario Kart Wii Tournament 2 p.m. Carver Branch, 1161 Angelina St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7372.

Thursday 9 Evening Out at Bullock Museum

Wednesday 8 Krispy Kreme Family Night 6 to 8 p.m. Krispy Kreme, 701 E. Stassney Ln. and 12586 Research Blvd. Free fun kid events. krispykremetexas.com/familynight2. Chess Club 5 p.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9920. Lego Lab 3 p.m. Southeast Branch, 5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd. librry.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8840. Lego Lab 4 p.m. Carver Branch, 1161 Angelina St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7372. CONTINUING: Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1.

Saturday 11 Recycled Robots at Laguna Gloria

Thursday 9 Evening Out at Bullock Museum 6 to 8 p.m. Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE. thestoryoftexas.com. Mario Kart Family Gaming Tournament 5 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch, 5500 Manchaca Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700. CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 2.

Friday 10 16th Annual Home and Garden Show 2 to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. 16 and younger FREE; senior $6.50; adults $8.50. austinhomeandgardenshow.com.

Friday 3 Lego Lab 4 p.m. North Village Branch, 2505 Steck Ave. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9960. First Friday on the Square 5 to 10 p.m. Downtown Georgetown. thegeorgetownsquare.com.

Sunday 5 Free First Sundays at the Bullock State History Museum

Saturday 11

Saturday 25 Tree Talk Winter Walk at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Amelia Earhart Day Trout Fishing Derby 7 to 10:30 a.m. Blue Hole Park, Georgetown. Bring your own fishing rod (1 pole per person). $3. georgetown.org or 512-930-3595. A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop 1 to 3 p.m. Ages 11 to 19 years. Enrollment on firstcome, first-served basis. George Washington Carver Museum, 1165 Angelina St. FREE. 512-472-4809. Kids and Teens Night Out 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Chasco Family YMCA, 1812 N. Mays St., Round Rock. ymcagwc.org or 512-246-9622. Kids and Teens Night Out 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Twin Lakes Family YMCA, 204, E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park. ymcagwc.org or 512-246-9622.

Austin Family is now making it easier for you to submit your calendar event. Go to www.austinfamily.com, click on “Submit your event” and send in your entry. The deadline is the 10th of each month preceding the month of the event. Events less than $15 usually are listed. For events more than $15, send details to kaye2003@austinfamily.com.

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

family events

COMPILED BY BETTY KEMPER Full Moon Swim 9 p.m. Barton Springs Pool, 2101 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. 512-476-9044. Third Thursday at Blanton 7:30 to 9 p.m. Blanton Museum of Art, Congress Ave. and MLK Blvd. Included with museum admission. FREE for member and UT students and faculty. blantonmuseum.org. CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 2; A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Friday 17 Recycled Robots 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ages 2 to 11. Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St. Members $5; non-members $10. thecontemporaryaustin.org or 512-458-8191. Wildcard and Finale 1 p.m. Ruiz Branch. 1600 Grove Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500. Mario Kart Wii Tournament 1 p.m. Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500. Hands-on History 10 a.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. williamsonmuseum.org. CONTINUING: What’s the Story Steve? Steve for the Holidays see Saturday 4; 16th Annual Home and Garden Show see Friday 10.

Sunday 12 Ballet Austin Presents Get Fit 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Ballet Austin’s Butler Community School, 501 W. Third St. FREE. balletaustin.org or 512-476-9151. Improv for Kids: Clockwork Stories 2 p.m. The Flying Theater Machine, 617 Congress Ave. $7. hideouttheatre.com or 512-HIDEOUT. CONTINUING: Kids in the Garden see Saturday 5; 16th Annual Home and Garden Show see Friday 10; A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Monday 13 Lego Lab 3:30 p.m. Howson Branch, 2500 Exposition Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8800.

Tuesday 14

Teen Midnight Madness 8 to 11:59 p.m. Twin Lakes Family YMCA, 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park. ymcagwc.org or 512-250-9622.

Saturday 18 Teen Night Live 7 to 10 p.m. Chasco Family YMCA, Round Rock. ymcagwc.org or 512-246-9622. CONTINUING: What’s the Story Steve? Steve for the Holidays see Saturday 4; A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Wednesday 22 Chess Club 5 p.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9920. CONTINUING: Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1; Krisy Kreme Family Night see Wednesday 8.

Thursday 23 CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 2; A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Saturday 25 Tree Talk Winter Walk 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 LaCrosse Dr. FREE. wildflower.org or 512-232-0100. Kids and Teens Night Out 6 to 11 p.m. Chasco Family YMCA, 1812 N. Mays St., Round Rock. ymcagwc.org or 512-246-9622. Kids and Teens Night Out 6 to 11 p.m. Twin Lakes Family YMCA, 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park. ymcagwc.org or 512-250-9622.

Sunday 19 CONTINUING: Improv for Kids: Clockwork Stories see Sunday 12.

Monday 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day MLK March, Festival and Food Drive 9 a.m. march; 3 p.m. festival. March starts at University of Texas, ends at Huston-Tillotson. Festival at HustonTillotson. mlkcelebration.com or 512-323-6773 ext. 102. MLK Day Out 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Chasco Family YMCA, 1812 N. Mays, Round Rock. ymcagwc.org or 512-246-9622. CONTINUING: A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

CONTINUING: What’s the Story Steve? Steve for the Holidays see Saturday 4; A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Tuesday 21

Sunday 26

Lego Lab 3:30 p.m. Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9840. Lego Lab 5 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch, 5500 Manchaca Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700.

16TH ANNUAL AUSTIN FAMILY CAMP FAIR 12 to 4 p.m. Palmer Events Center. FREE. austinfamily.com or 512-733-0038.

Lego Lab 4 p.m. Cepeda Branch, 651 N. Pleasant Valley Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7372.

Wednesday 15 Chess Club 5 p.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9920. CONTINUING: Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1; Krispy Kreme Family Night see Wednesday 8.

Thursday 16 Lego Lab 4 p.m. University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9940. Third Thursday 5 to 9 p.m. Downtown Taylor. FREE. 512-352-7446.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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CONTINUING: Improv for Kids: Clockwork Stories see Sunday 19.

Monday 27 Family Flicks 6:15 p.m. Movies and popcorn. Lake Travis Library, 1938 Lohmans Crossing. FREE. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. CONTINUING: A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Tuesday 28 Christa McAuliffe Day Midday Music Series 12 to 1 p.m. Blanton Museum of Art, Congress Ave. and MLK Blvd. Included with museum admission. FREE for member and UT students and faculty. blantonmuseum.org.

Wednesday 29 Chess Club 5 p.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9920. CONTINUING: Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 1; Community Nights see Wednesday 1.

Thursday 30 CONTINUING: Thursday Noon Concerts see Thursday 2; A Smile On My Face Photography Workshop see Saturday 11.

Friday 31 Chinese New Year

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

storytimes Public library storytime events listed here are free unless noted. Programs are subject to change so please contact before attending.

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

Mondays Pre-K Storytime 9:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Bookaneers 10:30 a.m. Ages 4 to 6 years. Lake Travis Community Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Bookworms 10:30 a.m. ages 0 to 18 months. 11:15 a.m. ages 12 to 24 months. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Preschool Storytime 7 p.m. Ages 3 to 6. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Baby Bloomers 9 a.m. to12 p.m. Ages 0 to 3 and their caregivers. The Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Members $2.50; non-members $4.50. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200.

Tuesdays Baby and Me 9:30 a.m. Ages 24 months and under with parent. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Spanish Bilingual Storytime 10:30 a.m. 3 to 6 years. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Toddler Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Preschool Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

Tales for Tots 10:30 a.m. Toddlers ages 2 and 3 years. Lake Travis Community Library. 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Storytime and Craft 6 and 7 p.m. Families with kids of all ages. Tickets required. Limit of 24 kids per class. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Little Texas Homeschoolers 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Baby and Me Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 0 to 12 months. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Storytime with Ms. Raquel 10:30 a.m. Barnes and Noble, 12701 Hill Country Blvd. Ste. O-140. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-263-7402.

Wednesdays Bow-Wow Reading Dog Call for time. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Toddlertime 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. 18 to 36 months. Library closed Wednesday 1. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Pre-K Storytime 10 to 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Babytime 9:30 to 10 a.m. 12 to 18 months. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Preschool Storytime 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. 3 years and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Toddler Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Book Babies 10:30 a.m. 3 to 24 months. Lake Travis Community Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Storytime with Mr. George 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 14010 US Hwy 183. barnesandnoble.com or 512-249-5644. Arts and Crafts 6 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Wobbles Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 2 years. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Story Pals Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 years and older. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Storytime 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 2701 Parker Rd. Bldg. A, Ste. 700. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-600-0088. Storytime with Ms. Raquel Barnes & Noble, 12701 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. O-140. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-263-7402. Storytime 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 10000 Research Blvd. #158. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-418-8985.

Storytime 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 5601 Brodie Ln., Ste. 300. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-892-3493.

Thursdays Preschool Storytime 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. 3 years and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7012. Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. 18 months to 3 years. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Babytime 9:30 a.m. Newborn to 1 year. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Spanish Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Wobbles Storytime 9:30 a.m. Ages 1 to 2 years. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623. Story Pals Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 years and older. Georgetown Public Library, 420 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3623.

Fridays Community Storytime 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. 18 months to 3 years. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-7011. Babytime 9:30 a.m. 12 to 18 months. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Toddler Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. cityofaustin.org/library or 512-974-7400. Preschool Storytime Go to website for various events, locations, age groups, dates and times. Austin Public Library. cityofaustin.org/library or 512-974-7400. Briarcliff Storytime 10 a.m. All ages. Briarcliff Community Center, 22801 Briarcliff Dr. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Preschool Storytime 11:15 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 years. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Toddler Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ages 18 to 36 months. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Community Storytime 9:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Storytime 10 a.m. All ages. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Baby Bloomers 9 a.m. to12 p.m. Ages 0 to 3 and their caregivers. The Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Members $2.50; non-members $4.50. thinkeryaustin.org or 512-469-6200.

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Sunday 5 Texplorations Family Storytime 2 p.m. Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress. thestoryftexas.com or 512-936-8746.

Monday 6 Rockin’ Kids Club Lego Day 4:30-5:15 p.m. Grades K-5. Every Monday. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Pre-K Storytime with George 9:30 to 10 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259.

Saturdays Saturday Storytime 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 14010 US Hwy 183. barnesandnoble.com or 512-249-5644. Storytime 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 10000 Research Blvd. #158. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-418-8985. Storytime 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 5601 Brodie Ln., Ste. 300. Barnesandnoble.com or 512-892-3493.

Wednesday 1 Pre-K Story time with Goddard School 10 to 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259. Lilypad Art and Writing Club 2 to 3 p.m. Elementary age. Registration is required. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259.

Thursday 2 Special Music Program for Babies 9:30 to 10 a.m. Babies 18 months and younger. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Special Music Program for Children 10:30 to 11 a.m. Children 18 months through preschool age. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279.

Friday 3 Community Storytime 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd. leander.librarycatalog.info or 512-259-5259.

Saturday 4 Hola-Hola! Storytime 10:30 a.m. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100, Lake Travis. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885.

Tuesday 7 Storytime at the French Legation Museum 10 a.m. All ages. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. frenchlegationmuseum.org or 512-472-1880. Chinese Bilingual Storytime 10:30 to 11 a.m. Ages 3 years and older. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-3279. Special Music Program for Babies 9:30 to 10 a.m. Babies 18 months and younger. Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov/library or 512-218-3279. Mr. Pete Storytime 11 a.m. All Things Kids at the Domain, 3220 Feathergrass Court. Allthingskidsusa.com or 512-490-6770.

Thursday 9 Little Yoga 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 to 6 years. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100, Lake Travis. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885.

Tuesday 14 Taste Buds 4:30 Ages 10 and up. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100, Lake Travis. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885.

Tuesday 21 ABCs of Cooking 4 p.m. 5 to 10 year olds. Limited to 12 children. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100, Lake Travis. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Pajama Storytime 6:15 p.m. All ages. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Suite 100, Lake Travis. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885.

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austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

parenting events School open house events in green

films BY JACK KYSER

Now Playing in Theaters

Wednesday 1 Gateway to Recovery 7 to 9 p.m. First and second Wednesday of each month. Austin Recovery, 8402 Cross Park Dr. austinrecovery.org or 512-697-8600.

Thursday 2 Monthly Moms Meeting 7 to 9 p.m. email for information info@northaustinmothersclub.org. Autism is Treatable 12 to 1:30 p.m. Old Quarry Library, 7051 Village Center Dr. meetup.com/austin-autism-treatmentforum or 512-300-3820. La Leche League Held at multiple locations in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Kyle, San Marcos and Cedar Park. For locations and times visit texaslll.org or 512-272-8042. Music Together Big Kids 1:30 p.m. Ages 5 to 7 years. Heartsong Music. heartsongmusic.net or 512-371-9506.

Wednesday 8 Texas in Motion at Scott and White Healthcare Car Seat and Booster Inspection 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Baby Earth, 106 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock. sw.org or 512-600-7050.

Friday 10 Girls’ School of Austin Open House 8 a.m. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Austin, 4700 Grover. thegirlsschool.org or 512-478-7827.

Saturday 11 Second Saturday Workshops 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Austin Recovery, 8402 Cross Park Dr. austinrecovery.org or 512-697-8600.

Saturday 18 St. Michael’s Catholic Academy Open House 12 to 2 p.m. St. Michael’s Catholic Academy, 3000 Barton Creek Blvd. 512-328-2323.

Tuesday 21 Texas in Motion at Scott and White Healthcare Car Seat and Booster Inspection 3 to 6 p.m. Travis County - contact Texas in Motion at Scott and White Healthcare for more information. sw.org or 512-336-3423.

Thursday 23 Texas in Motion at Scott and White Healthcare Car Seat and Booster Inspection 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Leander Central Fire Station, 201 Brushy St., No. Leander. sw.org or 512-259-9010.

Friday 24 Girls’ School of Austin Open House 8 a.m. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Austin, 4700 Grover. thegirlsschool.org or 512-478-7827.

Tuesday 28 Support for Families of Students with Special Needs 6 to 8 p.m. Eastside Memorial High School, 1012 Arthur Stiles Rd. Free childcare and light meal. eparentsupport.org or 512-414-5834.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Rated PG-13 Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Donald Sutherland, Stanley Tucci, Jena Malone, Jeffrey Wright, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz Austin Family critical rating: ★★★★ 1/2 of ★★★★★ Austin Family family-friendly rating: ★★★ of ★★★★★ In terms of quality, “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and its predecessor, “The Hunger Games,” are distinguished from so many other contemporary blockbuster franchises thanks to a few key assets. Chiefly, both films are bolstered by the presence of a first-rate supporting cast, including brilliant actors Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland and, in “Catching Fire,” the addition of Philip Seymour Hoffman and Jeffrey Wright. All of these actors are expertly well-cast and not wasted in the way they might be in another tentpole production. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the protagonist of “The Hunger Games,” Katniss Everdeen, is played by one of the most talented and charismatic actresses working today, Jennifer Lawrence (who, at age 23, deservedly has her first Oscar for her tour-de-force performance in last year’s “Silver Linings Playbook”). But even more important is that “Catching Fire” and its predecessor are actually about something. The bleak and rather unsettling future presented in these films is in the tradition of the best dystopian stories, and the ideas the film puts forth regarding our celebrity-obsessed, media-saturated culture and the way in which it functions in a totalitarian government are really quite amazing. Not only is the film about something, but it is also a movie full of wonderful scenes, which we so rarely see in big-budget junk anymore (I’ll again point to the wretched “Man of Steel”). The scene in which Philip Seymour Hoffman dances with Jennifer Lawrence is fascinating, because the director, Francis Lawrence, actually uses his actors to do what they do best – communicate with each other – rather than simply making them ornamental. And because of this, the scene is electrifying. The large set pieces are saved for the end of the film; the first half of “Catching Fire” engages you with vivid characters and the kind of methodical storytelling that I assumed Hollywood had fully abandoned. If the days of Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” trilogy are indeed past us, with “The Hunger Games” we have at least one major franchise that’s doing it right. Jack Kyser, a graduate of Austin High School, is currently attending and writing for New York University's Tisch School of the Arts.

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book recommendations BY PAM HELLER

For Younger Readers Ladybug Girl and the Big Snow by David Soman and Jacky Davis Lulu and Bingo wake to the joy of a winter blanket of fresh snow; their hopes are high for a perfect adventure. But snow is cold, snow is wet and snow melts, leaving them frustrated until…Lulu remembers that she is Ladybug Girl and, as in all the Ladybug Girl books, “Ladybug Girl can do anything!” Imagination and perseverance takes over and their day turns into a magical winter wonderland filled with creative fun! The watercolor illustrations are spot-on in capturing the facial expressions of the characters and atmosphere of the day. For ages 3 to 7. Exclamation Mark by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld Imagine being in a classroom where you’re the only one that looks different. That’s what the exclamation mark (a.k.a. “!”) faces in a room filled with periods (a.k.a. “.”) Although ! tries many tricks to try to fit in, it just isn’t working. Then a new character arrives…the question mark (a.k.a. “?”), and bombards the ! with questions, lots and lots of questions. So many questions, in fact, that ! finally yells, “STOP!” And the tide turns. ! gains confidence, realizes his purpose and goes forth in declarative sentences “to make his mark!” This book has such a clever and effective design to teach punctuation to young writers. For ages 5 to 7.

For Older Readers Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo Flora Belle Buckman is a self-described cynic and lover of the comic book series “Terrible Things Can Happen to You!” So imagine her thoughts as she realizes the vacuum cleaner has just swallowed Ulysses (a squirrel). But of course! She’s the perfect person to come to the rescue. Add to this the fact that Ulysses has been transformed by the experience into a squirrel that is super strong, writes poetry and can fly! Now you have the makings of a quirky, imaginative, engaging and surprisingly sensitive novel that will entice a broad audience of young readers. The comic-style black and white graphics add to the unique appeal of this story. For ages 8 to 12.

y r a u Ja n

Nes! FAcU tiviti

After the fireworks, celebrate a new year with these fun family activities. The dawn of a new year is a good time to set goals and create shared memories. Spending time as a family creating crafts is a great way to celebrate the turning of a year.

LDER When you GOOD TIMES FO OT N Einia-M ET RG movies, play m FAMILY FO bers go to the em on m go ily m or fa y rt ur and yo fair, give a pa . er circus, go to a ld a fo e e se th lf, in go t re tu s of the even to en em s, m re e hu ac oc cards, br vacation, pl , programs, post ns tio t ta ea vi gr in e s, th Ticket stub ind you of ng that will rem llectnapkins - anythi ter a year of co Af . ve sa to gs in th od and opening of times are all go Eve with the gr 's ar Ye ew N e d sharing your ing, celebrat cking an item an pi s rn tu ke Ta ! the folder at event. memories of th

RESOLUTION MAGNET New Year 's resolutions for kids teach children responsibility and the importance of working toward a goal. Setting resolutions need not be a chore; try to make it a fun fam ily activity where all members of the household com e up with their goals for the coming year. Make a New Year's resolution magnet with your kids so they can stick with it all year long. Hang it on the refr igerator or tack it on a bedroom door, so it can serve as a daily reminder and inspiration.

YMCA of Austin camps are a great way to keep your kids safe and active during the holiday season. Spring Break camp registration opens inJanuary with locations throughout Travis, Hays and Bastrop Counties. Visit www.austinymca.org for details or call 512-236-9622 to find the location nearest you. Visit us at the Austin Family Camp Fair in booths 209 and 211!

Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

austinfamily.com | January 2014 |

humor BY MIMI BURLESON

The road to good intentions

It's that time of year again. Time for the dreaded list of resolutions for the new year – or as I like to call them, “good intentions.” Because let's get real folks: that's what they are, right? Things that we intend to do, but rarely accomplish. At least that's how it is with me. I took a look at my previous “intensions” and came to the conclusion that I really stink at follow-through. So this year, rather than challenge myself and work really hard at becoming a better person, I'm taking the easy route. I'm focusing on the small things. Besides, I have a new baby at home. Life with two little kids gives me a hall pass, doesn't it? Just for one year? Please? I'm steering clear of the dieting. That's so 2013. Goodbye to my goal to reduce the foul language that comes out of my mouth every year. $@#%& that. And exercising more? I'll exercise when I very well please, which will probably be never. But I'm okay with that.

20 14

So, after much thought, well, really just about five minutes, here's my list of intentions for 2014: 1. Make it to work on time once a week. I told you I'm starting out easy. I'm that girl that frantically sprints into the office late with my fast food breakfast in tow, complaining about the traffic. In reality, I just woke up late, tried on 15 outfits (all of which are still on the floor of the closet) and then yelled at my kid for 20 minutes to get dressed and out the door for school. 2. Reduce the number of times I spill coffee grinds while trying to make coffee in the morning with only one eye open. I realize that making the coffee the night before would eliminate this issue, but that's just asking too much. 3. Fill up my gas tank before I see the "zero miles left" light. If I only accomplish one thing for the year, this is the one that would make my father proud. 4. Sleep for 12 hours straight without interruptions from anyone. Just once. 5. Convince my son that Elf on the Shelf needs to move on to bigger and better things in life. I just can't take it anymore. Have you seen Pinterest and Facebook during the month of December? The pressure is just too much! There you have it. Short and sweet. I might be an overweight potty mouth in 2014, but if I can cross any of those off of my list at the end of the year, I'll feel pretty good about myself.

Mimi Burleson lives in Georgetown with her husband and TWO young sons.

| January 2014 | austinfamily.com

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