FREE
SEPTEMBER 2018
smart parenting • healthy homes
Serving Austin’s Families Since 1992
BOY or GIRL? 25 Gender Reveal Ideas You Haven’t Seen Before
HOME STRETCH Our Roundup of Austin’s Best Neighborhoods for Families
GOOD ENOUGH Your Parenting Doesn’t Have to Be Impeccable YOUR GUIDE TO AUSTIN MUSEUM DAY ARTICULOS EN ESPAÑOL
Plus: Volunteer of the Year A Chat with Dynamo Teen Haley Betron
INSIDE!
YOUNG WRITERS CONTEST | CALENDAR | BIRTH AND BABY GUIDE
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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What can your
?
old stuff do
AustinReuseDirectory.com
• Create jobs
• Grow local businesses
• Support veterans’ services
• Help low-income women and children overcome homelessness
• Keep dogs and cats warm and cozy
...And that’s just the beginning. Your old stuff can nd new purpose with the Austin Reuse Directory. Locate donation and resale options for all your used items at AustinReuseDirectory.com.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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September 2018
contents 14
Next-Level Volunteer
smart parenting • healthy homes
18 Best Neighborhoods 22
Gender Reveals
columns
Calendar
en español
16 / Family Matters. Not
34 / September Events.
30 / Asuntos Familiares. No
perfect, but good enough
Museum exhibits, family events, parenting events and story times
perfectos, pero suficientemente buenos
need to know
In every Issue
46 / Piensa Positivo. Ofender
26 / The Learning Curve. 529
6 / Play It Safe. Recalls
20 / Lifelines. RSV: what you
college savings plans, explained
on consumer products
28 / Family Connections.
8 / Around Austin. News and
Shield your college student from identity theft
48 / Just for Grins. Swim diaper blues
notes
fIlm revIew
47 / KidZone. Paper rockets
eXtras
By Jack Kyser
7 / Young Writers Contest
Read online at: www.austinfamily.com/films
“Coming Soon to Theaters”
17 / Cover Kids Contest
follow us:
24 / Birth and Baby Guide 32 / Austin Museum Day
tune in: Catch Austin Family live on “Good Day Austin” every Friday morning and “Despierta Austin” the first Tuesday morning of each month.
46 / Focus on Doctors 47 / Smart Screen Time
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Maia is 4 years old and a Cover Kids Contest winner. Wardrobe courtesy of Dragonsnaps. Photo by Jordan Ashley Photography.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
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It’s
been a minute since my children were babies, but this month’s issue themed around birthing and maternity topics takes me back. For me, it was a bewildering time. I didn’t grow up around babies, so everything – from breastfeeding to diaper changes – was a new, sometimes overwhelming, experience. That’s why it’s so satisfying to bring you this issue full of useful information, from the earliest days (see “Gender Reveals”) through growing pains (see “Best Neighborhoods”) and into financial planning (see “The Learning Curve”). You’ll find advice from Dr. Betty Richardson about the doubts most parents feel about doing a good job. Our Birth and Baby Guide can point you to resources for support. And Carrie Taylor offers a humorous take on changing diapers at the beach. Luckily for me and other new parents, our babies prove to be resilient partners. They
® September 2018 Volume 26, No. 6 PUBLISHER Kaye Kemper Lowak
edItor’s note S H E R I DA MO C K Mock is an award-winning writer and the mother of two daughters.
EDITOR Sherida Mock: editor2003@austinfamily.com
COPY EDITOR Barb Matijevich
ADVISING EDITORS Dr. Betty Kehl Richardson, Barb Matijevich
hang in there as we figure out the intricate car seat/baby swing/side-ofthe-crib mechanisms. They thrive even if it takes us a few weeks to master their slippery selves in the baby bath. And they forgive us if we sometimes feel like crying right along with them. Whether your baby is brand new or leaving the nest, happy parenting to you!
CALENDAR EDITOR Betty Kemper: calendar2003@austinfamily.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sherida Mock, Dr. Betty Richardson, Jack Kyser, Richard Singleton, Carrie Taylor, Brenda Schoolfield, Alison Bogle, Tarek Morshed and Pam Molnar.
TRANSLATION Maribel Ruvalcaba
GRAPHIC DESIGN Layout: Susie Forbes Ads: Kim Crisler
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Jordan Ashley Photography
ADVERTISING SALES Kaye Kemper Lowak: kaye2003@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. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 7559, Round Rock, Texas 78683-7559 Phone Number: 512-733-0038 On the web at: www.austinfamily.com Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. Austin Family and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. Austin Family does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Subscriptions are available for $30 per year. Copyright 2018. All rights reserved No portion of Austin Family may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Play it
sa fe
product recalls
Government Recalls Sleepwear, Helmets and Drug Packages Allura is recalling about 64,000 children’s pajamas because they fail to meet the flammability standard for children’s sleepwear, posing a risk of burn injuries. The recall involves “Sweet N Sassy” and “Delia’s Girl” brands in sizes 4-6x and 7-16 in a variety of colors and prints. Affected units were sold at America’s Kids, Boscov’s, Kids for Less and other stores nationwide and online at amazon.com, cookieskids.com, crazyforbargains.com, sophiasstyle.com and other websites between September 2017 and April 2018 for between $8 and $13. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled sleepwear, take it away from children and contact Allura for a full refund. Rollerblade is recalling about 9,700 helmets because they fail to meet the federal safety standard, posing a risk of head injury. The recall involves Rollerblade-branded Helmets R Us helmets, used in schools’ PE programs. Model 16, SK-501N and the manufacture date are printed on a label inside the helmet. Affected units were manufactured between September 2011 and April 2017. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled helmets and contact Helmets R Us to receive a free replacement helmet. Helmets R Us is contacting all known purchasers directly. Sandoz and Novartis are recalling about 470,000 blister packages of prescription drugs because the packaging is not child resistant, posing a poisoning risk if swallowed by children. The recall involves blister packages with three to 10 tablets per card. Affected units were sold at clinics and pharmacies nationwide between September 2016 and June 2018. Consumers should immediately secure the blister cards to keep them out of sight and reach of children and contact Novartis or Sandoz for further instructions. Novartis and Sandoz advise that consumers should continue to use the medication as directed once the packages are secured. The US Consumer Products Safety Commission works to protect the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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G O TO W W W. AU ST I N FA M I LY.CO M F O R W E E K LY U P DAT E S O F A RO U N D AU ST I N N E WS
Free Museum Admission Two opportunities for free museum admission are coming to Austin this September.
Must-Do This
September 9
Smithsonian Magazine will hold its nationwide Museum Day Live on Sept. 22. To download a ticket and get more information, visit smithsonianmag.com/museumday. A ticket is good The Elisabet Ney Museum is one of over 40 for the ticket holder and one guest to receive free local museums participating in Austin Museum admission to one museum. Participants include the Day on Sept. 23. Photo by Jennifer Ramos. Neill-Cochran House Museum, the Texas Military Forces Museum, the South Austin Museum of Pop Culture and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. The Austin Museum Partnership will hold its Austin Museum Day on Sept. 23. More than 40 area museums will open their doors with free admission, guided tours, hands-on activities and more. For a list of participating organizations, visit austinmuseums.org.
The Hamill family’s company iFetch claimed Best New Product for Dogs at this year’s SuperZoo pet convention. Photo courtesy of iFetch.
10th Birthday Bash at The Long Center
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Austin Museum Day at member museums
28
American Indian Heritage Day at Bullock History Museum
Innovations in Dog Toys Austin’s multi-generational, family-run startup iFetch recently won first place for “Best New Product for Dogs” at the SuperZoo pet convention in Las Vegas. The Hamill family launched its company on Kickstarter in 2013 with an automatic fetching toy to help dogs stay stimulated and healthy, both mentally and physically. Its award-winning iDig is the first digging toy for dogs.
Educational Improvements Central Texas has been recognized by StriveTogether, a national nonprofit working to improve education for every child with a “cradle to career” approach. StriveTogether partners receive the network’s top designation when they prove systems are changing and outcomes are improving or being maintained year after year. Central Texas joins eight other communities in the US to receive this top designation. E3 Alliance led the efforts to change policies and practices across our region. “Since 2006, E3 Alliance has been dedicated to using data and collaboration to drive systems change in education,” says Susan Dawson, E3 Alliance president and executive director. “We are deeply moved and honored by StriveTogether’s national designation.”
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Austin’s La Mama Care sells postpartum gift boxes. Photo courtesy of La Mama Care.
Postpartum Care Boxes Started by three local women, La Mama Care (lamamacare.com) has launched a gift box company that sends nutritious snacks and supplies to support new moms after birth. “We believe there is a distinct gap between the amount of support moms get during pregnancy versus after childbirth. Our mission is to ensure the mom feels seen, heard and cared for even after this new bundle comes into her life,” says founder Nique Mayo. Items in the Every Mama Care Kit include a healthy snack, a customized water bottle, lavender lip balm, reusable nursing pads, a warm wrap, soap and water wipes, a notebook and pen, and the booklet “Superhero’s Guide to Postpartum Care.” Future product plans include a Cesarean Mama Kit and a Breastfeeding Mama Kit.
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Entrepreneurs as Kids The moms of Austin entrepreneurs say it was clear their offspring were destined to be business leaders. In advance of Austin Startup Week (Oct. 1 – 5), the mothers of some local business leaders shared their insights.
Kaleb Brewer, founder and CEO of Phoenix Construction, as a little one. Photo courtesy of Judy Kring.
Sharon Cohen, mom to Mark Cohen, founder and CEO of Ntelicor, says, “When Mark was in high school, I was meeting some friends for lunch. When I arrived, I was surprised to see Mark and a friend hard at work on the restaurant’s lawn. I knew he was mowing lawns; however, I thought he was mowing a few neighborhood lawns. He had so many customers he worked six, sometimes seven, days a week from sunrise until dark.” Judy Kring, mom to Kaleb Brewer, founder and CEO of Phoenix Construction, says, “When he was 5, his nanny offered to pay him $50 for homeruns in T-ball, because what 5-year-old can hit a homerun off a T, right? Well, he became a hometown legend, and she nearly went broke. Even from a very young age, if you gave Kaleb a challenge, he would rise to it.”
1 in 10
US babies are born in Texas Source: US CDC
$50,000
Est. annual cost of public, in-state college education by 2036 Source: Vanguard College Cost Projector
2,200 sq. ft.
Average size of homes built in Austin since 2010 Source: propertyshark.com
Angela Chappell, mom to Chris Chappell, owner of HydroPros, says, “Chris has always had a very strong mind and wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. If something didn't work the way Chris expected, he would go back to the drawing board to brainstorm new ideas.”
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Encounters with Nature Inspired both by her childhood experiences growing up in Colorado and by her role as cochair of the YMCA’s Camp Moody capital campaign, Ellie Falcao and her family have set a goal to visit all 58 national parks.
The media expo STAPLE takes place Sept. 8 and 9. Photo by Tyler Malone.
Comics Expo The independent media expo STAPLE will take place Sept. 8 - 9 at the Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex. The event showcases over 200 artists and creators of independently-made comics, zines, art, crafts and games. Visitors can interact with artists and sit in on tutorials and panels. For tickets and more information, visit staple-austin.org.
“Visiting Camp Moody for the first time was a game-changer for our family,” says Falcao. “We The Falcao family saw Crater Lake National Park as part of their had a great life, but sometimes it goal to visit all 58 national parks. Photo courtesy of Ellie Falcao. felt like we were on autopilot. We were missing that connection to nature. Our kids are learning to appreciate the beauty of simple things, and we as parents treasure the family time away from distractions like screens.” The Falcao kids have developed a love for fishing and rock climbing. This summer alone, the family (dad Eric, mom Ellie and 8-year-old twins Emery and Anderson) have visited 12 national parks in five states. “Our goal is to see them all by the time the kids go to college,” says Falcao. The YMCA's Camp Moody capital campaign aims to raise $18.3 million to make the camp an accessible venue for thousands of Austin-area kids and families. Falcao says as Austin grows southward and Buda grows northward, Camp Moody will offer a close-in setting for kids to experience nature.
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Get Out and Move Take advantage of these Austin-area events to stretch, run or skip your way to a healthy lifestyle. On Sept. 3, participating studios across the city will offer a Free Day of Yoga. The event kicks off with a group class at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden at 8 a.m. Visit freedayofyoga.com for more information. Don your favorite cape for the CASA Superhero Run, taking place on Sept. 16 at the IBM Client Innovation Center. The run benefits Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a nonprofit that speaks up for children who have been abused or neglected. For more information, visit casasuperherorun.com. The Inflatable Festival and Run comes to the Travis County Expo Center on Sept. 22. Starting the day with a 5K run through inflatables, participants can also enjoy live entertainment, games and a water ball sponge battle. Visit theinflatablerun.com for more information. On Sept. 22, Master Skipper Kim Corbin will lead more than 300 skippers around Mueller Lake to benefit Foster Angels of Central Texas. After the skip, participants can enjoy music, hula hoops, bubbles, balloons and more. Visit austinskipathon.com for more information. Participants raise their knees and raise funds for Foster Angels of Central Texas at the third annual Skipathon. Photo by All Heart Photography.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
The YMCA of Greater Austin hosts its Family Olympic Picnic at the East Communities YMCA on Sept. 8. Families can bring their own picnics and compete in games like corn hole and watermelon eating contests. This is an adaptive event that accommodates families with special needs. The event is free. For more information, visit austinymca.org
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Academic Stress Students transitioning into high school often see their grades drop, and while some shake it off, others internalize that stress. Researchers at UT Austin have concluded that how students think about themselves and their abilities could make the difference. In a paper published in “Child Development,” researchers say they’ve discovered that students’ mindsets — their beliefs about whether intelligence is a fixed trait or something that can be developed — related to their likelihood of overcoming academic stress. During the first 12 weeks of school, 68 percent of students in the study experienced a decline in grades. But worsening grades only stressed out the students who believed that a person’s intelligence is fixed and can’t change. Hae Yeon Lee, a psychology graduate student and the study’s lead author, says, “Believing that intelligence can be developed — or having what is called a growth mindset — may buffer the effects of academic stress.” This could be because a growth mindset leads students to proactively solve their problems, for example, by talking with teachers or boosting their skills.
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Austin on TV The spotlight turns on an Austin-area family in the new A&E documentary “Deaf Out Loud.” The show follows three predominantly deaf families as they raise their children in a hearing world.
April and Paco Garcia and their six children will be featured on A&E’s “Deaf Out Loud.” Photo courtesy of April Garcia.
The Garcias live near Georgetown and met when April was called to interpret for Paco. After experiencing a pair of miscarriages, the couple pursued adoption to grow their family. Some of the Garcia children are hearing and some are deaf. Their first child was a 10year-old hearing girl who knew American Sign Language. Later, three deaf children were adopted through hard work by the Garcias. “Due to HIPPA laws, Children’s Services is unable to identify children based on disability,” says April. “We searched through thousands of children’s profiles, looking for keywords like ‘lack of speech.’” The family grew even larger when April and Paco discovered the infertility doctors were wrong. They welcomed two biological children into the family, which now includes six children. Prompted by the limited supports they saw in place for deaf children in foster care, the Garcias founded Hope’s Lighthouse, a nonprofit that provides advocacy, support and education services for adoptive families and foster children. “Deaf Out Loud” will air on Sept. 12 on A&E.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
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A Next-Level BY S H E R I DA M O C K
Teen Volunteer
AFM: What got this started for you? Betron: I was in student council in 6th grade, and we visited a nursing home. Their entertainment budget had been cut, so I started going there on Tuesdays and playing for them, and then I started visiting
elementary schools, since I love kids so much. And it just grew from there.
AFM: It’s a big leap from playing music to putting together a whole package for kids. How did you do it? Betron: I’ve been playing guitar for almost 10 years, and I love babysitting. So, I just combined two of my loves together
common to
It’s
Betron visits elementary schools and
and started teaching lessons about
hear about
preschools year-round to speak, read
kindness and gratitude, because I thought
books, play guitar and sing songs —
it was really important to share those
some of which she wrote herself — with
lessons in schools. You learn a lot in
volunteer work; some want to
inspiring messages about kindness, self-
school, but I don’t think you learn enough
help a specific organization,
esteem and aspiring to bigger things.
about how to be kind.
teens doing
some are looking for ways to keep busy and others hope to
We caught up with Betron this past Elementary School in Round Rock ISD.
AFM: What have you learned about connecting with children?
Even in the final days of the school year,
Betron: I’ve learned a lot through each
May as she stopped by Kathy Caraway
round out their resumes. But Haley Betron has taken
and at the end of the school day at that,
lesson I do. I’ve added hand movements
volunteering to the next level.
Betron held a class of 1st graders
and incorporated kids’ ideas into the
Only just entering her junior
mesmerized as she read books with titles
songs, so the kids are more interested in
like “I’m Gonna Like Me” and “Incredible
what they’re learning.
year at Westwood High School,
You,” alternating with songs called
Betron has already
“Dream Big” and “I Like Myself When
accumulated multiple awards:
I Am….”
the National Charity League’s Mission Belle Award, the
AFM: Where was your first class? Betron: Last summer, I taught at the
“Sometimes things don’t go your way,”
Williams Community School and the
she told the group sitting on the rug in
Capital School of Austin. They’re both
President’s Gold Award, the Girl
front of her. “But it’s important to love
year-round schools, and they are
Scouts Gold Award and
yourself anyway.” After a 30-minute
preschools. A lot of their kids have special
Westwood High School’s Volunteer of the Year.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
lesson with the class, Betron sat down
needs and special learning differences. I
with us to talk about her passion for
went in and taught a music class once
volunteering.
a week.
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I’m making. It’s great to see them so engaged with the lesson and singing along. That has helped me learn a lot about what kinds of songs and what kinds of books they respond to and like.
AFM: What about feedback from teachers? Betron: The teachers seem to enjoy it. Plus, I bet it’s a nice break for them to have somebody else teaching for a little bit.
Betron weaves original songs and children’s classics into her interactive class visits. Photo by Sherida Mock.
AFM: How many of these lessons do you do?
AFM: Tell us about the songs you choose to sing and the messages you’re teaching.
AFM: How do you find the teachers and schools to work with?
Betron: I compose some of my own
Betron: I researched a lot about
original songs. They’re mostly about
different audiences of kids. I focus on kids
being kind, being the best you, but I also
with special needs during the summer.
use nursery rhyme-type songs and make them my own. For example, using the “Wheels on the Bus” song, I made it into
AFM: What sort of feedback do you get from the kids?
sharing the kids’ ideas. So, I incorporate kindness and gratitude and positivity
Betron: It’s been really amazing, and
into everyday “jingles.”
it’s shown me how much of an impact
Betron: During the school year, it’s a little bit more difficult for me, so I do them about four times a month. But during the summer, I go twice a week.
AFM: You have two more years of high school. Any idea what you’ll do after that? Betron: This year, I’m using my “off” block to teach at schools. I like music therapy. Maybe I’ll be a counselor or a teacher.
AFM: How do you decide what books to use in your lessons? Betron: I created my lessons based off the themes of kindness, gratitude, the best you and friendship. Once I started creating the lessons, I went to a couple of bookstores and searched for books that went along with my lesson plan.
AFM: Who pays for the books you’ve bought?
Betron reads to the class as part of her lesson on believing in yourself. Photo by Sherida Mock.
Betron: I use my babysitting money, primarily. I’ve gotten a couple of donations, but mostly it’s just my own money.
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famIly matters BETTY RICHARDSON Richardson, PhD, RNC, LPC, LMFT, is an Austin-based psychotherapist.
Not Perfect, But Good Enough
Q.
We were eating in a
restaurant when my 16year-old son blurted out
“You’re bad parents!” This presumably because we took away his cell phone during the meal. He said he was expecting an important text from his girlfriend. He and his sister left and started walking home. Sometimes I think my kids are out of control, and I blame myself. We scream and cuss. But we’re worn out from working our jobs. Are we bad parents?
A. The emotion of guilt is common among parents and is a normal part of parenting. I hear parents list so many reasons: not being with the children enough, not listening, being a bad role model, pushing too hard or not hard enough, cussing and yelling, not being loving enough, being too critical, not being consistent, drinking, spanking, divorcing, being depressed or having a physical or mental illness, fighting with a spouse, saying hurtful things, being selfish or not protecting the children. For some, guilt could be a sign of feeling they’ve fallen
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
short in their goal to raise their children to be happy, successful adults. As parents, we don’t have to be perfect, but we do need to be “good enough,” which means doing better within our own situations. I suspect you and your husband already know some ways you can improve, beginning with demonstrating respect for each other and for the children. Before you arrive home from work, get yourself relaxed with meditation, exercise or other acceptable ways. Speak kindly and respectfully, even if your children say or do something to upset you. Talk with your children about the need for everyone to be respectful. Emphasize other core values like truthfulness, responsibility and kindness. And talk with your husband. Together, create household rules and come up with logical consequences for breaking them. Discuss all this in a family meeting and get input from the kids. Post the rules on the fridge or in a family notebook. Then examine what’s making you feel guilty. Is it too little time with the kids? If so, schedule “dates” with each of them. Write it on your calendar. Even tired people can
spend restful time with their children, like watching a movie and discussing it afterward. If you’re being too critical, give yourself a fine every time you catch yourself being critical and put the money in a jar. Use it later to treat the family. Correct what you can and accept what you can’t. For example, if you have a physical or mental illness, you can’t give it up the way you can give up yelling. But you can seek professional help and follow medical advice to put yourself in the best possible state to parent your children. Take free or low-cost parenting classes. (Often, childcare is provided at these classes.) Build friendships with other parents and discuss parenting concerns with the group. Are there bad parents? Yes, of course there are. Some of the adults I see in therapy describe parents who were abusive and/or neglectful. These adults are searching for a sign their parents are sorry for what they did or didn’t do. Unlike you, those parents tend to not feel guilty and usually don’t see or admit the emotional pain they may have caused their children.
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Best Neighborhoods in Austin for Young Families ATX BY TA R E K MO R S H E D P H OTO S BY S H E R I DA M O C K
Over the past decade or so, Austin has become a highly desirable destination for people from all over the US. And for good reason: for the second year in a row, “US News and World Report” named Austin number one on its “Best Places to Live” list. Austin’s natural beauty, friendliness and vibrant culture have put our fair city front and center on the national stage.
Area: Mueller Average Home Price*: $572,000 Best for: Those who seek a new urban lifestyle in a close community Based on a masterfully planned, awardwinning community designed in accordance with new urbanist principles, Mueller is a vibrant part of the Austin scene. With a range of home styles from traditional houses with yards to condos and row homes, Mueller attracts people of all ages and backgrounds. Being just minutes from downtown and close to
Shady Hollow, one of Austin’s first master-planned communities, has an easy-going feel with a dose of nostalgia.
major employers like Dell Children’s Medical Center makes this area a great option for reducing your commute.
Young professionals make up a significant portion of Austin’s newest residents. For those who have young children or who want to start a family,
Restaurants and shopping – including the
Area: Shady Hollow
fantastic Mueller H-E-B grocery store –
Average Home Price*: $408,900
are accessible, while The Thinkery
Best for: Those looking for a slice of
children’s museum and year-round
small-town charm
activities at Mueller Lake Park help keep this community a favorite for families.
neighborhood with a dose of nostalgia,
buying the perfect home in the right
Shady Hollow might just be for you. Think backyard BBQs, Fourth of July parades
neighborhood is a top priority. Access
and kids playing among gorgeous, mature
to amenities such as parks, good
trees. One of the area’s first-ever master planned communities, Shady Hollow
schools, restaurants and community
offers the ideal combination of modern
spaces is, of course, a major factor in
design and roomy older houses perfect for families and those who work out of
determining where to buy.
the home. You’ll also have access to
Fortunately, there are a lot of Austin
exemplary schools, parks and pools, and nearby entertainment and restaurant
neighborhoods that can help homebuyers meet their goals.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
If you’re seeking an easy-going
options, all in a location just 10 miles Mueller Lake Park and The Thinkery are centerpieces of the Mueller area.
south of downtown.
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Area: Cherrywood
city library. Paco’s Tacos, Nomad and
Average Home Price*: $464,400
Corona Coffee are neighborhood
Best for: Those who want to live in a funky
favorites, and newer, popular spots like
community close to local hot spots
Hank’s will likely attract more business,
Cherrywood is an eclectic, established
further enhancing Windsor Park’s
neighborhood with close proximity to hip
desirability.
Austin restaurants, coffee shops and local businesses. The shady, tree-lined streets
Area: Circle C Ranch
and friendly atmosphere attract a diverse
Average Home Price*: $505,000
group of residents, including families,
Best for: Those who want access to plenty
students and professionals. Spots like
of top-notch amenities
Cherrywood Coffeehouse are within walking distance and perfect for meetings
Located in the beautiful hills of South
The MetroRail Lakeline station in Avery Ranch connects passengers directly with downtown Austin.
or settling down with a cup of coffee and
Austin, Circle C Ranch is one of the most
your laptop. Nearby eateries like Contigo,
sought-after of Austin’s master-planned,
Mi Madre’s and Unit-D Pizzeria are great
family-friendly communities. Brimming
No doubt Austin will continue to grow in
for adults and kids alike. Plus, you’re just
with amenities including a swim center
the coming years, thanks to the friendly
minutes away from downtown and The
with a heated, Olympic-sized pool, an 18-
people, strong economy, vibrant culture
University of Texas, making any local
hole golf course, a highly-rated tennis
and top amenities that residents enjoy. If
commute a dream.
club, basketball courts, soccer fields and
you and your family are considering a
miles of hike and bike trails, Circle C
move to or within Austin, you might
Ranch is a boon for active families.
discover your perfect home in one of
Average Home Price*: $344,570
Residents also have access to top area
these beautiful, family-friendly
Best for: Those who seek an established
schools and a number of restaurants and
neighborhoods.
yet up-and-coming neighborhood
entertainment venues, such as Alamo
Area: Windsor Park
Comprised mainly of mid-20th century
Drafthouse Movie Theater, Satellite Bistro
*Figures are based on Austin MLS data for
& Bar, District Kitchen + Cocktails, North
homes sold in the last 6 - 12 months.
ranch-style homes, Windsor Park boasts
By Northwest Restaurant and Brewery,
large lots on neat, tree-lined streets and a
and many more.
Tarek Morshed is an Austin Platinum Top 50 Realtor and entrepreneur.
close-knit community. While still home to many long-time residents, younger singles and families have been moving into the neighborhood, attracted by the affordability and convenient location.
Area: Avery Ranch Average Home Price*: $387,800 Best for: Those who prefer a more
3 Tips for Discovering the
contemporary suburban lifestyle
Perfect Home
Windsor Park residents enjoy being near good public schools, multiple parks and a
Avery Ranch has something for everyone. In this well-maintained, well-managed neighborhood, residents can choose from a variety of amenities like an 18-hole golf course, multiple event centers, an amphitheater, community pool and tennis courts, and eight miles of outdoor trails – not to mention access to highly-rated schools. Avery Ranch is perfectly situated for professionals who work in North Austin or the nearby thriving city of Round Rock. And if you want a traffic-free visit to the city center, Cap Metro’s MetroRail Red Line connects you directly to and from
Hank’s restaurant and bar is a popular new gathering spot in Windsor Park.
1. Determine how much home you can afford and start saving for a down payment. Use an online calculator like the one at nerdwallet.com to help you estimate. 2. Consider how your new home can support your personal AND work needs. For example, will a shorter commute be more beneficial to you in the long run? Do you need room for a home office? Access to good schools as well as co-working spaces? 3. Hire a realtor who understands your needs and is willing to support you before, during and after closing.
downtown Austin.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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LIfeLIneS B R E N DA S C H O O L F I E L D Schoolfield is a freelance medical writer who splits her time between Austin and Seattle.
RSV: What You Need to Know Every year, respiratory syncytial virus (or RSV, an illness in the lungs and breathing passages) causes over 2 million doctor’s visits among young children in the US. About 57,000 of these children are so sick, they need to be treated in a hospital. The American Academy of Pediatrics says babies from 2 months to eight months of age experience the highest incidence of RSV. The virus is also the most common reason that babies under one year of age are hospitalized. Although it’s common in young children, anyone can get RSV. And because having it once doesn’t protect you, you can get it again. Currently, there’s no vaccination for RSV. SPOTTING THE SYMPTOMS Most of the time, RSV starts with the same symptoms as the common cold — runny or stuffy nose, cough and sometimes a sore throat. In more severe cases, symptoms can be fever, wheezing, trouble breathing or bluish color of the skin. Healthy adults and older children with RSV usually have mild symptoms and recover in one to two weeks. In some people, RSV can be serious. Very young babies with RSV may not have signs of a cold but may be irritable, really tired or not want to nurse or take a bottle. These babies have a greater risk of life-threatening breathing problems. RSV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Those at higher risk include premature babies, children younger than 2 years old with chronic lung or heart disease, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
AVOIDING CONTAGION RSV is very contagious and easily spread from person to person. If someone coughs or sneezes and doesn’t cover his mouth, you can get the virus by breathing in these droplets in the air. Also, the virus can live for hours on hard objects we all touch, such as handrails, door knobs or toys. If you touch a contaminated object and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth, you can become ill with the virus. Children often get RSV at daycare or school and then spread the illness to their families at home. RSV season can start as early as midSeptember and last through the spring, peaking during the winter months. You can protect your child and family by taking a few common-sense precautions. Protect Your Baby. Follow these tips, adapted from healthybaby.org: • Make sure caregivers wash their hands before picking up and holding your baby. • Keep your baby away from people with runny noses and anyone who is sick. This includes the baby’s siblings. • Don’t stop breastfeeding your child if you have a cold. Breastfeeding gives your baby protective antibodies. • Keep your baby away from crowded areas, such as shopping malls. • Don’t let anyone smoke around your baby. Exposure to secondhand smoke can make your baby more susceptible to a serious RSV infection.
Protect the Rest of Your Family. Follow these tips, adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If there is no soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. • Keep your hands off your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. • Avoid close contact with people who have cold-like symptoms. Don’t share cups and utensils with others. • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash afterward. If you don’t have a tissue, cough into your elbow. Coughing or sneezing into your hand can spread germs to anything you touch. • Clean and disinfect surfaces that people frequently touch, such as doorknobs. When people infected with RSV touch surfaces and objects, they can leave behind germs. Also, when they cough or sneeze, droplets containing germs can land on surfaces and objects. • Wash toys often, particularly when a child playing with them is sick. • If possible, sick people should stay home from work, school and public areas. This will help protect others from catching the illness. IF YOUR CHILD GETS RSV Most healthy adults and older children will recover from RSV in a week or two. Do the following to care for a child with RSV:
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• Make sure your child drinks plenty of liquids so she doesn’t become dehydrated. • If needed, give a fever-reducing medicine, such as ibuprofen. Don’t give aspirin to a child. • Watch for signs of a severe or lifethreatening infection and get immediate medical care for your child. Some signs to look for are trouble breathing, such as breathing fast, funny breathing noises or a sucking in of the skin around the chest or stomach area when taking a breath. • Call your doctor if your child is not drinking enough fluids or is getting worse. • Call your doctor if your baby is irritable, tired and not wanting to feed.
How to Protect Your Baby from RSV • Make sure caregivers wash their hands before picking up and holding your baby.
• Keep your baby away from crowded areas, such as shopping malls.
• Keep your baby away from people with runny noses and anyone who is sick. This includes the baby’s siblings.
• Don’t let anyone smoke around your baby. Exposure to secondhand smoke can make your baby more susceptible to a serious RSV infection.
• Don’t stop breastfeeding your child if you have a cold. Breastfeeding gives your baby protective antibodies.
Information adapted from www.healthychildren.org
How to Protect Your Child and Family from RSV Wash your hands often Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If there is no soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Keep your hands off your face Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with sick people Avoid close contact with people who have cold-like symptoms. Don’t share cups and utensils with others. Cover your coughs and sneezes Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash afterward. If you don’t have a tissue, cough into your elbow. Coughing or sneezing into your hand can spread germs to anything you touch. Clean and disinfect surfaces; wash toys frequently Clean and disinfect surfaces that people frequently touch, such as doorknobs. When people infected with RSV touch surfaces and objects, they can leave behind germs. Also, when they cough or sneeze, droplets containing germs can land on surfaces and objects. Wash toys often, particularly when a child playing with them is sick. Stay home when you are sick and keep your child home when she is sick If possible, sick people should stay home from work, school, and public areas. This will help protect others from catching the illness. Information adapted from CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/index.html
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Boy or Girl? These 25 Gender Reveals Help You Share the
Mere moments after announcing a
Knead to know basis. Buy or make your
pregnancy, the question pops out, “Is it a
own white playdough and hide a few
boy or a girl?” Every new parent wants to
drops of food coloring inside. When kids
celebrate their new baby in a big way,
start to play with it, the gender will be
and the announcement is just the
revealed.
beginning. Step outside the cake cutting or box of balloons and find a new way to reveal the baby’s gender with these 25 unique ideas. FOR THE SIBLINGS
News BY PA M MO L N A R
Test the waters. Use a simple science experiment with pH. Add a universal indicator solution (available inexpensively online) to water so that it will change from clear to blue or pink
Diaper change. Buy colored candy melts
when the kids pour in a little ammonia
and fill a disposable diaper with the
(blue) or vinegar (pink).
melted candy. Make it appropriately heavy and wrap it like a genuine dirty
Baby or bust. Fill a black balloon with
diaper. Have the kids open it to reveal
colored confetti and place it on a board
the color of the “poop.”
with nails or pushpins behind the balloon. The kids throw beanbags to pop
FOR THE PARENTS-TO-BE
the balloon and reveal the contents.
Have a ball. Many Etsy retailers offer sports balls – baseballs, footballs, soccer
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
Push your luck. Assemble your own
balls, you name it – filled with intensely-
confetti-filled push pops (supplies
colored pink or blue powder. Have the
available online) or buy them pre-made.
parents-to-be hit, throw or kick the ball,
Kids push the handle up quickly to
which will open on impact into an
release a colorful flurry.
impressive cloud.
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Blast it out. If you’re looking for an
Lemon juice turns the tea pink, while
ACROSS THE MILES
explosive announcement, consider using
water leaves it blue.
Blow them away. Send a package
a confetti cannon (available online) to
containing two empty latex balloons – Toast of the town. Fill the parents’
one pink and one blue. Put a small hole
champagne glasses with sparkling water
in the wrong color so it can’t be blown
Bowled over. Make your own bowling
and drop in a color fizzer tablet
up. Ask the loved ones to try and blow up
pins with painted 2-liter bottles. Fill the
(available online) to reveal their baby’s
the one they think is right.
bottles with colored water and set up an
gender.
blast out the gender color.
Luck of the draw. Send a package
“alley” on a white sheet outdoors. When the ball hits the pins, the colored water
Pour it on. Purchase color-changing
containing one pink and one blue onesie,
will soak the sheet.
gender reveal cups that turn blue or pink
each with an iron-on saying. One reads
when liquid is poured inside. Have the
“See you soon” and the other, “Maybe
Fishing expedition. Set up a bucket with
parents fill each other’s cups while
next time.”
colored water and have the parents-to-
everyone watches.
be cast a white sponge fish into the
Special delivery. Order a pizza for the
bucket. Give it a minute for the fish to
loved ones, to be delivered while you’re
“bite” and then reel it in to reveal a pink
on the phone with them. Have the pizza
or blue fish.
reveal in pepperoni – boy or girl.
Tie one on. Get a bunch of scarves in
FOR THE WHOLE GANG
Spill the beads. Buy a bag of expanding
several colors, tie them together and
Mum’s the word. Use solid vases and
water beads (available online) and sort
stuff them in a box. Have the parents pull
white mums as centerpieces or party
out the gender color you want. Mix them
on the scarves (like a magician), until the
decorations. Then pour food coloring
into a bag of multi-colored beads of the
last scarf is unveiled to be pink or blue.
into the vase water and as the party
same size and send the package to your
progresses, the flowers will change color.
loved ones. Add a tag that says, “Instant
Subtle and mysterious!
baby, just add water.” The water beads
FOR FOODIES Piece of cake. Popular in Victorian times
will grow larger while the plastic beads
for wedding cakes, participants pull
Fan the flames. Another subtle way to
ribbons from the bottom layer, with each
break the news involves gender reveal
remain small.
ribbon revealing a charm that designates
candles. They’re white on the outside,
the “fortune” of the puller. In our version,
but as they melt, they expose the pink or
the charms reveal a boy or girl.
blue wax inside.
Drop a bombshell. Make gender reveal
The cat’s out of the bag. Fill a piñata with
cascarones by draining the contents of
colored confetti or candy. Use a
the eggs and leaving the shells intact. Fill
traditional stick to break the piñata or
Chew on this. Use Facetime or Skype to
the shells with colored glitter or confetti,
buy a pull-string design that opens from
call loved ones as the parents-to-be
tape the holes closed and then smash
the bottom.
chew bubble gum. One parent should be
them over the heads of the parents-tobe for a festive answer.
chewing pink gum, the other blue gum. Bubble over. Rent a bubble machine and
As they each blow a bubble, one parent
add food coloring to the bubbles for a
pops the bubble of the color that is not
Tea change. Use the natural hue of blue
magical display of pink or blue.
the gender.
chai tea to your advantage. Pour brewed
Give it your best shot. Dress the parents-
tea into cups (hot) or glasses (cold) to
to-be in white clothing and have
serve the parents-to-be. Then add lemon
participants shoot water guns filled with
juice or water to disclose the gender.
food-color-tinted water at them.
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Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She loves to plan parties as much as the guests enjoying attending.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
23
Birth & Baby Guide SUPPORT Any Baby Can Any Baby Can believes all children deserve the chance to be healthy and happy. Through in-home therapies (physical, occupational and speech pathology), medical case management, resource navigation and family support services, ABC strengthens parents and their children. Services are provided through home-visitation programs, community classes and support groups. www.anybabycan.org 512-454-3743 Aunt Bertha Auntbertha.com is a website that connects people with programs. This includes food, housing, transit, health, money, care, education and legal services. It’s user friendly: just enter your zip code and pick a category, and Aunt Bertha shows the options near you. For each option, you’ll see a description of the service and a map on how to get there. You can even share it with a friend. www.auntbertha.com MOPS MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) builds circles of moms who love each other like family. Their gatherings let moms meet to share their hopes, fears and insights, in a format that works with their schedules. Whether you’re a soon-to-be mom, first-time mom or seventh-time mom, there’s a group for you. Meetings happen in parks, churches, coffee shops. www.mops.org 888-910-MOPS (6677)
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Mother’s Milk Bank When moms can’t provide their own milk for babies, Mother’s Milk Bank steps in to help. A baby might need donor milk because of preterm birth, failure to thrive, malabsorption syndromes, allergies, intolerances, immunologic deficiencies or other conditions. After establishing eligibility, Mother’s Milk Bank dispenses pasteurized, frozen milk to hospitals and outpatient babies. www.milkbank.org 877-813-6455
PHOTOGRAPHY Jordan-Ashley Photography This photographer captures your moments, one click at a time. Working out of a professional, full-service studio in Cedar Park near Lakeline Mall, Jordan Ashley Photography is owned and operated by an award-winning photographer and winner of "Best Photography in Austin" from Austin Family magazine’s reader's choice poll and "Best of the Best Photographer" from Hill Country News. www.jordanashleyphotography.com 512-506-9593
DROP-IN CARE Kidspa Austin Drop-in childcare fits your schedule: come when you want and stay as long as you need. Kidspa Austin is open in the evenings and on Saturdays. There’s no minimum stay, and time is calculated down to the minute. So, you only pay for the time you use. Kidspa accepts babies starting at 18 months. www.kidspa.com/programs/drop-in-childcare Avery Ranch 512-828-5772 Steiner Ranch 512-301-5772
DAY CARE Bright Horizons Choosing the right childcare program is a big decision. Bright Horizons offers care and education to children from ages 6 weeks to 6 years. Their programs empower children to become confident, successful learners and
secure, caring people. Bright Horizons has five locations in the Austin area. campaigns.brighthorizons.com/austinfamily_2018
877-624-4532 Extend-a-Care for Kids With infant and preschool programs in 11 area locations, Extend-a-Care for Kids offers childcare that is fun, enriching and reliable. Allday childcare starts at 6 weeks of age. All programs meet each child’s individual needs by offering a cognitively, socially and physically enriching curriculum. www.eackids.org 512-472-9402 Petra Preschool This new, faith-based school in north Austin aims to show God’s love by providing education, care and support to a diverse population, including foster children, economically disadvantaged children and their families. Full-day programs serve children ages 6 weeks old to 4 years old. www.petrapreschool.org 512-777-1746 Stepping Stone Schools With 18 Austin-area locations, Stepping Stone Schools offers an Early Childhood Developmental Nurturance Program for babies from 6 weeks old to 18 months old. Care and education begins with their Platinum Learning for Life curriculum. Teachers send daily electronic reports. www.steppingstoneschool.com 512-459-0258
SHOPPING Treasures Charity Resale Shop & Boutique This little resale shop stocks clothing and furniture at prices that won’t break the bank. Located inside the Round Rock Area Serving Center, sales dollars go back into the community to support food services and community programs for those in need. www.rrasc.org 512-244-2431
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DoTERRA doTERRA Baby Collection is a safe, effective and natural way to cleanse, moisturize and care for your baby. The calming blend of essential oils will leave your baby, and even big kids, with a light, clean scent. www.doterra.com/US/en/site/rachaelarden 512-461-8250 Kid-O-Shoe Kid-O-Shoe prides itself on providing one of the largest selections of children's footwear in the country. Offering over 40 brands from around the world and specializing in European brands, their large selection ensures that something can be found for even the narrowest or widest foot. www.kidoshoe.com 512-467-7463
PHYSICAL THERAPY Sullivan Physical Therapy Get relief from cesarean, episiotomy and scar pain, and postnatal pain and weakness. Specializing in women’s health, these physical therapists are certified in Women's Health Physical Therapy and have received certificates of achievement in pelvic, pregnancy and postpartum physical therapy. www.sullivanphysicaltherapy.com 512-335-9300
COLLEGE PLANNING Texas Tomorrow Funds It’s never too early to think about your baby’s education. How much it will cost when she’s ready? Lock in today’s Texas college and university tuition costs through plans that work for you. Choose from Texas Tuition Promise Fund, Match the Promise Foundation and the Texas College Savings Plan. www.texastomorrowfunds.org
September 2018 austinfamily.com
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the learnIng curve ALISON BOGLE Alison Bogle is an Austin-based freelance writer and mom of three.
529 College Savings Plans, Explained Saving for college can be overwhelming - the savings
every state, and many states even offer
529 Prepaid Tuition Plan
special tax benefits to investors.
The Texas Tuition Promise Fund is
Money in a 529 plan grows tax-free, and
Texas’s 529 prepaid tuition plan. With this plan, contributions are used to buy
options alone can make your
there are no taxes on its distribution if it
head spin! The 529 plan is
is used for qualified expenses.
arguably the most well-known
A 529 plan doesn’t carry age or income
education at today’s rates. The Texas
limits, and an account can be opened
Tuition Promise Fund offers three pricing
college savings vehicle. This
with as little as $25, with subsequent
levels (called “Tuition Unit Types”) to
contributions as small as $15. The
address the different needs of families.
overview will give you a better understanding of the popular plan and can help you make the
tuition credits, essentially locking in a Texas public college or university
maximum contribution amount is $370,000. Grandparents and others who contribute to a plan can deposit as much as $15,000 each without the gift being
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board reports that tuition costs in Texas rose 72 percent on average from 20032009. One argument for selecting a
best savings choice for your
taxable.
family.
The parent is the permanent account
likely tuition costs will continue to rise.
holder and will retain control of the
This type of plan offers an opportunity to
funds. Also, 529 plans are treated as an
protect against those rising tuition costs.
A 529 plan is an education savings plan that was specifically designed to help families save for higher education. Federal tax code now allows up to
prepaid tuition plan is it’s extremely
asset of the parent, which means that your savings will have a smaller impact on federal financial aid.
529 Savings Plan The Texas College Savings Plan is a 529 college savings plan administered by the
$10,000 a year in K-12 private school tuition as a qualified expense, so it can
There are two types of 529 plans: prepaid
state of Texas. A 529 savings plan covers
be used for primary education as well.
and savings. It should be noted that
not only tuition and fees, but can be
Named after Section 529 of the Internal
Texas residents are not limited to
used to pay educational costs such as
Revenue Code, 529 plans are offered by
investing only in Texas’s 529 plans.
books, lab fees, and room and board.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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The funds may be used at any accredited public or private higher education institution worldwide. Prepaid vs. Savings Plans A 529 prepaid plan comes with no investment choices, while a 529 savings plan offers some choice. For example, the Texas College Savings Plan offers 20 different investment portfolios. There are, however, restrictions on how often your investment choices can be changed. 529 prepaid plan funds can be used for tuition and required fees only, while savings plan funds also cover additional,
“
The longer your money is invested, the more time it has to grow through regular deposits, in addition to interest and dividends earned.
personal choice. However, it all boils down to the same thing: saving should begin early. The longer your money is invested, the more time it has to grow through regular deposits, in addition to interest and dividends earned. And while investing in a good educational savings plan can’t take away the worries that come with a child leaving the nest, it sure can help to relieve financial anxiety. So, get saving!
approved educational costs such as books, lab fees, and room and board. With the 529 prepaid plan, there may be a deadline by which the tuition credits must be used. In contrast, there are no age restrictions on your investment with the 529 savings plan, so funds will be available in the future, should your child defer school. Disadvantages If you invest in a 529 prepaid plan and your child decides to attend a private or out-of-state college, your savings may not cover all your funding needs. Similarly, if you don’t invest enough into a 529 savings plan, or if your money doesn’t grow as quickly as expected, you may not have enough to cover your child’s tuition, fees and other educational costs. As with most investment plans, there are fees and expenses that will be deducted from your 529 plan savings account balance or levied against your prepaid plan contributions. Withdrawals of earnings are taxable and subject to a 10 percent penalty if they aren’t used for qualified educational expenses. And there’s no guaranteed return on your investment. The Bottom Line Which savings plan to choose is a Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
27
famIly connectIons R I C H A R D S I N G L E TO N Singleton, MACE, MAMFC, LPC, is the president of STARRY in Round Rock.
Shield Your College Student from Identity Theft Back to school. Every year is more
Jonathan Berr, writing for Consumer
easier to slither around for thieves.
surreal as our kids seem to age at warp
Reports, notes that college loan fraud is
Our freshly festooned college kids,
speed.
up 120 percent, and college students are
wielding their plastic for the first time,
prime pickings for “phishing” scams. The
need to take special precaution. For
This is especially true for parents faced
rationale is simple. There’s much less
instance, these new-to-card-newbies
with tearfully remembering the first day
financial transaction history for college
need to be careful of “shoulder
of kindergarten as they drive away from
kids, so the trail of criminal deceit is
suffering,” according to identity theft
newly furnished dorm rooms with
expert Adam Levin. This low-tech theft of
college-level well-wishes fresh off
credit card information is the simple act
their lips.
22 percent of students
One thing that most of us aren’t banking
have been notified that
of looking over shoulders to snag numbers.
on for our students is just how much identity theft danger lurks for our newly minted matriculates. We’ve worried about their living accommodations. We’ve agonized over their scholarships, loans and savings. We’ve wrung our hands about their social lives away from home for the first time.
they have been the victims of identity
alarming issue.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
Balance, notes that college kids’ Social Security numbers are a hot commodity for identity thieves, and this population is
fraud. They found out
particularly vulnerable because of the
the hard way: from bill
different logins, forms and processes.
collectors and credit
So, the list soars from a low-tech
But if we’re being honest, we’ve given little to no attention to this increasingly
Jerri Ledford, in an article for The
significant need to use their SSN for many
peeping of PINS to some of the most
rejections.
sophisticated theft you can imagine. All this begs the question of what to do?
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Leaning on Levin’s expertise, Berr notes
As school moves into full swing this
They’re trying to chart a path for
the need to guard numbers. He
year, let’s make sure that a good dose of
successful financial futures. Let’s help
recommends never carrying Social
the education we’re providing our
them avoid any missteps as they take
Security cards and driver’s licenses
students is about how to navigate the
their first steps on this exciting route
together. Also, some old but wise cyber
dangers of identity theft. Our kids are
toward their true identity, not some
safety is issued: use strong passwords,
already stressed and stretched enough.
scammer’s fake one.
don’t use public Wi-Fi for transactions and don’t give out your personal information on social media. Many colleges are wise to this growing issue and are helping students navigate new territory. Argosy University, for instance, has a Behavioral Sciences blog that addresses this very issue for their students, directing them to the nonprofit Identity Theft Resource Center (idtheftcenter.org) for more detailed information and direction. This independent, nation-wide resource might be just the thing families need to consider as part of the preparatory work for the early days of their collegian’s journey. Other valuable resources and guidance both for “online” and “offline” protection for college students can be found via the Better Business Bureau. There are extensive lists for both online and offline suggestions located on the BBB website, specifically for college students. Don’t assume this won’t happen to your student. Clark.com, sharing a Javelin Strategy & Research study from four years ago, notes that 22 percent of students have been notified by various credit institutions that they have been the victims of identity fraud. They found out the hard way: from bill collectors and credit rejections. That’s difficult to hear as an adult with years of life under your belt, but to hear that as a struggling college student is a heavy burden we don’t want our kids to haul around.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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asuntos famIlIares BETTY RICHARDSON Richardson, PhD, RNC, LPC, LMFT, es una psicoterapeuta situada en Austin.
No perfectos, pero suficientemente buenos
P.
Estábamos comiendo en un restaurante cuando mi hijo de 16 años de edad soltó abruptamente:
“¡Ustedes son malos padres!” Esto, presuntamente porque le quitamos su teléfono celular durante la comida. Dijo que esperaba un texto importante de su novia. Él y su hermana se fueron y comenzaron a caminar a casa. A veces pienso que mis hijos están fuera de control, y me culpo a mí misma. Gritamos e insultamos. Pero llegamos a casa muy agotados del trabajo. ¿Somos malos padres?
R. La emoción de culpa es común entre los padres y es una parte normal en la crianza de los hijos. Escucho a los padres enumerar muchas razones: no estar con los niños lo suficiente, no escucharlos, ser un mal ejemplo, presionar demasiado o no lo suficiente, maldecir y gritar, ser demasiado crítico, no ser lo suficientemente amoroso, no ser consecuente, beber, darles nalgadas, divorciarse, estar deprimido o tener una enfermedad física o mental, pelear con un cónyuge, decir cosas hirientes, ser egoísta o no proteger a los niños. Para algunos, la culpa podría ser una señal de que se han quedado cortos en su objetivo de criar a sus hijos para llegar a ser unos adultos felices y exitosos.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
Como padres, no tenemos que ser perfectos, pero tenemos que ser “suficientemente buenos”, lo que significa hacer lo mejor que podamos dentro de nuestras propias situaciones. Sospecho que usted y su esposo ya conocen algunas formas en que pueden mejorar, comenzando por demostrar respeto mutuo y por los niños. Antes de llegar a casa del trabajo, relájese con meditación, ejercicio u otras formas aceptables. Hable amablemente y respetuosamente, incluso si sus hijos dicen o hacen algo para molestarla. Hable con sus hijos sobre la necesidad de que todos sean respetuosos. Enfatice otros valores esenciales como la veracidad, responsabilidad y bondad. Y hable con su esposo. Juntos podrían crear las reglas de la casa y proponer consecuencias lógicas por romperlas. Hablen de todo esto en una reunión familiar y obtenga la opinión de los niños. Ponga las reglas en el refrigerador o en un cuaderno familiar. Luego, examine qué es lo que la hace sentirse culpable. ¿Pasa muy poco tiempo con los niños? Si es así, programe “horarios” con cada uno de ellos. Escríbalo en su calendario. Incluso las personas cansadas pueden pasar tiempo descansando con sus hijos, como ver una película y platicar sobre ella después. Si está siendo demasiado crítica, aplíquese una multa cada vez que descubra siendo crítica y
ponga el dinero en un frasco. Utilice ese dinero después en la familia. Corrija lo que pueda y acepte lo que no puede. Por ejemplo, si tienen una enfermedad física o mental, no se puede renunciar la manera en que usted puede dejar de gritar. Pero busque ayuda profesional y siga los consejos médicos, para así ponerse en el mejor estado posible para criar a sus hijos. Tome clases gratuitas o de bajo costo sobre la crianza de los hijos. (Por lo general, se proporciona cuidado de niños en estas clases). Construya amistades con otros padres y analice las preocupaciones sobre la crianza de los hijos con el grupo. ¿Hay malos padres? Sí, por supuesto que los hay. Algunos de los adultos que veo en terapia describen que sus padres fueron abusivos y/o negligentes. Estos adultos están buscando una señal de que sus padres se arrepienten de lo que hicieron o no hicieron. A diferencia de usted, esos padres tienden a no sentirse culpables y generalmente no ven ni admiten el dolor emocional que pueden haberles causado a sus hijos. Sospecho que no tenemos que preocuparnos de que usted sea una madre verdaderamente mala, porque está buscando formas de ser una mejor madre: no perfecta, pero mejor. Sé la mejor madre que pueda ser.
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2018
MUSEUM DAY September 23, 2018 Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to explore all of these Austin-area museums in one day with free admission and special activities for families! Contact each museum to discover special activities and hours.
KEY:
Austin Woman's Club
Capitol Visitors Center
A A
Art
C C
Culture
708 San Antonio St. 512-472-1336 CCH H
112 E. 11th St. 512-305-8400 HH
Blanton Museum of Art
City of Austin Cultural Arts Division
H History H
SS Science M Math M
200 E MLK Blvd. 512-471-7324 AA
Briscoe Center for American History Asian American Resource Center 8401 Cameron Rd. 512-974-1700 AAC HC H
Austin History Center 810 Guadalupe St. 512-974-7480 CCH H
Austin Nature & Science Center 301 Nature Center Dr. 512-974-3888 SS M
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2300 Red River St. 512-495-4515 CCH H
Brush Square Museums 411 E. 5th St. 512-974-3830 HH
Bullock Texas State History Museum 1800 Congress Ave. 512-936–8746 HH
September 2018 austinfamily.com
German-Texan Heritage Society 507 E. 10th St. 512-467-4569 CCH H
Art in Public Places and The People’s Gallery @ City Hall 512-974-7700 AAC C
Dick’s Classic Garage Car Museum 120 Stagecoach Tr., San Marcos 512-878-2406 HH
Elisabet Ney Museum 304 E. 44th St. 512-458-2255 AAH H
Flower Hill Historic Homestead Museum
Harry Ransom Center 21st and Guadalupe sts. 512-471-8944 CC M
1316 W. 6th St. 512-305-3650 CCH H
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Humanities Texas 1410 Rio Grande St. 512- 440-1991 AAC HC H
Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr. 512-837-1215 HH
Neill-Cochran House Museum 2310 San Gabriel St. 512-478-2335 HH M
Old Bakery & Emporium 1006 Congress Ave. 512-477-5961 AAC HC H
Republic of Texas Museum 510 E. Anderson Ln. 512-339-1997 HH
Save Austin's Cemeteries sachome.org 512-917-1666 HH
Science Mill Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center 4801 La Crosse Ave. 512-232-0200 AAS S M
101 S. Lady Bird Ln., Johnson City 844-263-6405 SS
Texas Historical Commission
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
1511 Colorado St. 512-463-6100 HH
605 Robert E. Lee Rd. 512-445-5582 AAC C
Texas Medical Assn. History of Medicine Gallery
Visual Arts Center
401 W. 15th St. 512-370-1550 SSH H M
Waller Creek Conservancy 211 E. 7th St. 512-541-3520 S
S
Landmarks Public Art Program
Williamson Museum 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown 512-943-1670 HH
2305 Trinity St. 512-495-4315 AAC C
Women & Their Work
LBJ Presidential Library
1710 Lavaca St. 512-477-1064 AA
2313 Red River St. 512-721-0200 CCH H
MathHappens Various museums 512-663-1680 MM
Mexic-Arte Museum 419 Congress Ave. 512-480-9373 AAC C
23rd and Trinity sts. 512-232-2348 AA
South Austin Popular Culture Center 1516-B S. Lamar Blvd. 512-440-8318 AAC HC H
Texas DPS Historical Museum 5805 N. Lamar Blvd. 512-424-2396 HH
Texas Memorial Museum 2400 Trinity St. 512-471-1604 SS
Texas Military Forces Museum 2200 W. 35th St., Bldg. 6 512-782-5659 HH
Texas Music Museum 1009 E. 11th St. 512-472-8891 CCH H
The Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center 2201 Barton Springs Rd. 512-974-6350 SS
Thinkery 1830 Simond Ave. 512-469-6200 SS
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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2018 calendar
September C O M P I L E D BY B E T T Y K E M P E R
Museum Exhibits Page 34
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Family Events Page 34
Museum Exhibits The Buzz Saw Sharks of Long Ago. Through Sept. 21. A whorl-toothed shark swam ancient seas 270 million years ago. See this unique combination of science, art and humor. Texas Memorial Museum, 2400 Trinity St. tmm.utexas.edu or 512-471-1604. Celebrating Texas Food. Through Sept. 30. Explore unique items including Austin's first cookbook, home movies, vintage cookware and collectibles from across the state. Capitol Visitors Center, 112 E. 11th St. FREE. tspb.state.tx.us or 512-305-8400. Ed Ruscha: Archaeology and Romance. Through Jan. 6. View the books, photos, sketches and other materials of the artist’s engagement with pop culture. Through Jan. 6. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St. hrc.utexas.edu or 512-471-8944. Rodeo! The Exhibition. Through Jan. 27. Explore the origins of Texas rodeos and stock shows. Bullock Museum, 1800 Congress Ave. thestoryoftexas.com.
Family Events Sat 1 Pie in the Sky Hot Air Balloon Festival. Over 25 hot air balloons illuminate the sky. Activities and live music. 6:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Lake Kyle, 700 Lehman Rd., Kyle. $10 morning session; $20 evening session; $30
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Parenting Events Page 42 •
weekend pass; FREE for kids 10 and younger. kylepieinthesky.com.
The Legends of Robin Hood. 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. See Sat 1 for details.
Madrone Canyon Hike. 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Laura's Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045.
Free First Sunday: Totally Texas. Immerse yourself in Texas history through creative fun with art, music and engineering. FREE admission 12 to 5 p.m., activities from 12 to 3 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE. thestoryoftexas.com or 512-936-8746.
The Legends of Robin Hood. A play about adventure in merry old England with the Sherwood Forest Faire players and live music by Alan A. Dale. 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Scottish Rite Theatre, 207 W. 18th St. $8 child, $12 adult. scottishritetheater.org or 512-472-5436. Magic: The Gathering. 1 p.m. Kyle Public Library, 550 Scott Ave., Kyle. FREE. cityofkyle.com. Little Women Celebration. Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Louisa May Alcott’s novel with a screening of the 1994 film (PG) followed by themed activities. 2 to 4:15 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov. Disney's Beauty and the Beast. This “tale as old as time” comes to life with costumes, sets and live music. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Zach Theatre, Topfer Stage, 202 S. Lamar. From $20. zachtheatre.org or 512-476-0541. 中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground. A Mandarin Chinese study group for children ages 5 and up. 3 to 4 p.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. FREE. westbanklibrary.com.
Sun 2 Pie in the Sky Hot Air Balloon Festival. 6:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. See Sat 1 for details.
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT
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Visit austinfamily.com and click “Submit your event.” The deadline is the 5th of the month preceding the month of the event. If your event charges more than $15, send details to kaye2003@austinfamily.com for approval.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
Story Times Page 43
Open House. Hear stories and learn facts about local history. 1 to 4 p.m. Heritage House Museum, 901 Old Austin Hutto Rd., Pflugerville. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov. Disney's Beauty and the Beast. 2:30 p.m. See Sat 1 for details. Splash Jam. Live music, inflatables and fireworks. 6 to 9 p.m. Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park. FREE admission; fees for food and games. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5500.
Mon 3 Labor Day Free Day of Yoga. Free classes at studios throughout Austin. See website for schedule. freedayofyoga.com.
Tue 4 Music and Movement. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. FREE. westbanklibrary.com. Family Night: Fun and Games. 6 to 7 p.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. FREE. westbanklibrary.com. Evening Storytime & Craft. 6:30 to 7 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Adulting 101 for Teens: College Admissions. For ages 12 – 18. Discuss grades, test scores, activities and everything else colleges evaluate. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. FREE. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-7012.
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Tween Hangout Night. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6101.
Wed 5 Northside Kids. Guided activities and crafts. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Domain Northside Lawn, 11700 Domain Blvd. FREE. domainnorthside.com. Arts and Crafts for Children. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Elgin Public Library, 404 N. Main St., Elgin. FREE. elgintx.com. Bow Wow Reading with Roo. 4:30 p.m. Little Walnut Creek Branch, 853 W. Rundberg Ln. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9860. Discovery! Magnetic Magic. 4:30 p.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. FREE. westbanklibrary.com.
Thu 6 Music and Movement. 3:30 p.m. Hampton Branch at Oak Hill, 5125 Convict Hill Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9900. First Thursday Austin. Shop and dine along Austin’s funkiest boulevard. 5 to 8 p.m. South Congress Ave., Barton Springs Rd. to Elizabeth St. FREE. firstthursdayaustin.com.
Starry Night. Families with kids of all ages explore astronomy and hands-on activities. 5:30 to 7 p.m. 1400 W. Anderson Ln. FREE. girlstart.org. Unplugged at The Grove. Free live music on an iconic patio. 8 to 9:30 p.m. Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. kgsr.com.
Farm Street Opry. Family-friendly musical entertainment featuring local Texas musicians and special guests. 5:30 p.m. Bastrop Convention and Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop. $7.50; kids under 10 FREE. bastropconventioncenter.com or 512-332-8984.
STEAM Studio. 6 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market.
Movies in the Park: Beauty and the Beast (G). 8:15 p.m. Adams Hemphill Park, 201 W. 30th St. FREE. austinparks.org.
Fri 7 Austin Ukestra. Local ukulele group performs live. 1 p.m. Recycled Reads Bookstore, 5335 Burnet Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-323-5123.
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First Friday Art Walk. A monthly showcase that brings together art, live music, shopping and socializing. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Downtown Bastrop. FREE. cityofbastrop.org or 512-332-8800. First Fridays on the Square. Shops stay open late. 6 to 8 p.m. Downtown Georgetown. FREE. visit.georgetown.org or 512-864-9822. Movies in the Park: Early Man (PG). 7:30 p.m. Mason Homestead Park, 1101 S. Bagdad, Leander. FREE. leandertx.org or 512-528-9909.
Hands on History. Learn what school used to be like and make your own bookmark. Come and go event. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512-943-1670. Pfurry Splash Party. Swim with your dog. Waiver required and rules apply; see website for details. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Scott Mentzer Pool, 901 Old Austin Hutto Rd., Pugerville. $5 per dog (includes two humans); $3 per extra human. pugervilletx.gov.
Movies in the Park: Ratatouille (G). 8 p.m. Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5500.
GR8 SK8. Domain Northside turns into a skating rink with music and prizes. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 11700 Domain Blvd. FREE. domainnorthside.com.
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Staple Independent Media Expo. Comics, zines, art, crafts and games. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex, 1156 Hargrave St. $10 one-day pass, $15 two-day pass. FREE for kids 12 and under. staple-austin.org. Storytime & Craft. 11 to 11:30 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr, Austin. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Fall Marketplace and Craft Fair. 12 to 3 p.m. East Communities YMCA, 5315 Ed Bluestein Blvd. FREE. austinymca.org or 512-933-9622.
Sat 8 Walk to End Lupus Now. 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Old Settlers Park, 3300 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. FREE. lupus.org or 210-651-9480.
Family Olympic Picnic. Sporting events and games for the whole family. 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. East Communities YMCA, 5315 Ed Bluestein Blvd. FREE. austinymca.org or 512-933-9622.
Second Saturdays are for Families. Learn how to engineer an aquatic work of art. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St. FREE with reservation. contemporaryaustin.org or 512-458-8191.
Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 2 p.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8800.
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中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground. 3 p.m. See Sat 1 for details. Arts and Crafts. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Elgin Public Library, 404 N. Main St., Elgin. FREE. elgintx.com. Movies in the Park: Cars 3 (G). Movie starts at 8 p.m.; activities before the show. 6 to 10 p.m. Fisherman's Park, 1200 Willow St., Bastrop. FREE. cityofbastrop.org or 512-332-8800. Teen Night. For ages 11 and up. RSVP appreciated. 6 to 8 p.m. We Rock the Spectrum, 7010 W Hwy 71. $8. werockthespectrumaustin.com or 512-687-4443.
Sun 9 Staple Independent Media Expo. 12 to 6
p.m. See Sat 8 for details. 10th Birthday Bash. Jam out to Grupo
Fantasma, enjoy Austin art and take part in fun activities. 1 p.m. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. FREE. thelongcenter.org or 512-457-5109.
Mon 10 Music and Movement. 11 a.m. Manchaca Road Branch Library, 5500 Manchaca Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700.
Tue 11 Music and Movement. 10:30 a.m. See Tue 4 for details.
STEAM Studio. 6 p.m. See Wed 5 for details.
Thu 13 Little Texans. For ages 2 to 5, an interactive experience that incorporates movement, play and tactile learning. 10 to 11 a.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE with admission. thestoryoftexas.com or 512-936-8746.
Family Night: Fun and Games. 6 p.m. See Tue 4 for details. Evening Storytime & Craft. 6:30 p.m. See Tue 4 for details.
Wed 12 Arts and Crafts for Children. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. Discovery! Magnetic Magic. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. Bow Wow Reading with Roo. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. Family Movie Night: Beauty and the Beast (G). 6 p.m. Twin Oaks Branch Library, 1800 S. 5th St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980.
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Songs of Peace. Dance to, sing along with and experience traditional music from cultures across the world. 3:30 p.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8800. Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 6 p.m. Spicewood Springs Branch Library, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3800.
Movies in the Park: Cars 3 (G). 8 p.m. Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5500.
Sat 15 St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer. 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. $10 for walk. stjude.org.
Unplugged at the Grove. 8 p.m. See Thu 6 for details.
African American Safari Program. An allages program to learn about African culture and hear African songs and folktales. 6:30 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org.
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Storytime & Craft. 11 a.m. See Sat 8 for details. Hispanic Heritage Festival. Live performances to celebrate Mexico’s independence from Spain. 12 to 9 p.m. Fiesta Gardens, 1901 Jesse E. Segovia St. FREE. diezyseis.org. 中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground. 3 p.m. See Sat 1 for details.
Fri 14 Friday Matinee Movie: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (PG). 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Old Quarry Branch Library, 7051 Village Center Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8860.
Batman Day. A screening of the LEGO Batman Movie (PG) followed by themed activities. 10:30 a.m. Little Walnut Creek Branch Library, 835 W. Rundberg Ln. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9860.
Youth Football Clinic. For ages 5 – 12. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Gus Garcia Rec Center, 1201 E. Rundberg Ln. FREE. austintexas.gov. Mother Earth Day Festival and Back-toSchool Nature Bash. Performances, exhibits and activities. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. motherearthdayfest.com.
Movie Matinee: E.T. (PG). 3:30 p.m. Old Quarry Branch Library, 7051 Village Center Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8860. Arts and Crafts. 4:30 p.m. See Sat 8 for details. El Grito 2018. Commemorating the call by Mexican priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla to fight for independence from Spain. 5 to 10 p.m. State Capitol Building, 11th St. and Congress Ave. FREE. univision.net.
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Sun 16
Wed 19
CASA Superhero Run. 5K race and Kids 1K beneďŹ tting Court Appointed Special Advocates of Travis County, Williamson County and Central Texas. 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. IBM Client Innovation Center at Broadmoor Campus, 11501 Burnet Rd. casasuperherorun.com.
Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 3:30 p.m. Milwood Branch Library, 12500 Amherst Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9880. Arts and Crafts for Children. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. Discovery! Magnetic Magic. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. Bow Wow Reading with Roo. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. STEAM Studio. 6 p.m. See Wed 5 for details.
Tue 18 Music and Movement. 10:30 a.m. See Tue 4 for details. Family Night: Fun and Games. 6 p.m. See Tue 4 for details. Evening Storytime & Craft. 6:30 p.m. See Tue 4 for details.
Manchaca Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700. Movies in the Park: Hook (PG). 8 p.m. Govalle Park, 5200 Bolm Rd. FREE. austinparks.org.
Fri 21 TGIF Movie with Popcorn. Family-friendly classic movie. Bring a drink. 1 to 3:30 p.m. Elgin Library, 404 N. Main St., Elgin. FREE. elgintx.com or 512-281-5678. Family Campout. Spend the night in the park. Receive two meals, s’mores and a t-shirt. 3:30 p.m. Old Settlers Park, 3300 E. Palm Valley Dr., Round Rock. From $10. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-3220.
Teen Book Club. 6:30 p.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8800.
Thu 20 Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 6:30 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch Library, 5500
Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Sat 22 The Inflatable Run Austin. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Ln. From $10; FREE for youth under 12. theinflatablerun.com or 760-914-0824.
Fiesta Dinner and Bingo. 6 to 10 p.m. St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, 1520 N. Railroad Ave., Pflugerville. $10 dinner, additional options. stelizabethpf.org or 512-251-9838.
Sun 23
Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 3:30 p.m. Twin Oaks Branch Library, 1800 S. 5th St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980.
Austin Skipathon. A philanthropy event benefiting Foster Angels of Central Texas. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mueller Lake Park $10 child; $25 adult. austinskipathon.com or 512-732-2329.
LIVESTRONG Honor 5K/10K. 7:30 to 11 a.m. Mathias Shores (formerly Auditorium Shores), 900 W. Riverside Dr. From $30. livestrong5k10k.org or 512-279-8385.
Family Night: Fun and Games. 6 p.m. See Tue 4 for details.
Mermaid Promenade. 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Downtown San Marcos. FREE. mermaidsocietysmtx.com or 512-825-2819.
Austin Museum Day. All day. Special activities and free admission to museums throughout Austin. FREE. austinmuseums.org.
Wed 26
Mermaid Aqua Faire. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Main Plaza, 206 N. CM Allan Pkwy., San Marcos. FREE. mermaidsocietysmtx.com or 512-825-2819.
Evening Storytime & Craft. 6:30 p.m. See Tue 4 for details.
Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 11 a.m. Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3625. Bow Wow Reading with Aussie. 3:30 p.m. North Village Branch Library, 2505 Steck Ave. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9960.
Storytime & Craft. 11 a.m. See Sat 8 for details. Pecan Street Festival. Live music, arts and crafts. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6th St. FREE. oldpecanstreetfestival.org.
Bow Wow Reading with Roo. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. Pecan Street Festival. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. See Sat 22 for details.
Arts and Crafts for Children. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details.
Tue 25 Booktastic Magic with Silly Sparkles. A show filled with books, puppets, magic and balloons. For kids up to age 5 with an adult. Two shows: 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. FREE. pflugervilletx.gov. 中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground. 3 p.m. See Sat 1 for details.
Music and Movement. 10:30. See Tue 4 for details.
Arts and Crafts. 4:30 p.m. See Sat 8 for details.
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September 2018 austinfamily.com
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Discovery! Magnetic Magic. 4:30 p.m. See Wed 5 for details. STEAM Studio. 6 p.m. See Wed 5 for details.
Thu 27 Pajama Storytime. 6:30 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch Library, 5500 Manchaca Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700.
Fri 28 American Indian Heritage Day. Traditional and contemporary performances, storytelling and hands-on activities. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE with admission. thestoryoftexas.com.
Leander Bluegrass Festival. 6 to 10 p.m. Next to Mason Homestead, 1101 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. FREE. leandertx.gov. Family Craft Night. 6:30 p.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9900. Movies in the Park: Despicable Me 3 (PG). 8 p.m. Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5500.
Sat 29 Fajita Fiesta. A festival of food, music and culture. Buda City Park, 204 San Antonio St., Buda. budachambertx.com or 512-295-9999.
September 2018 austinfamily.com
Sun 30 Fajita Fiesta. A festival of food, music and culture. See Sat 29 for details. The Mystery of the Green Teeth Ghost. 2 p.m. See Fri 28 for details.
Parenting Events Enrollment Open House. IDEA Bluff Springs, 1700 E. Slaughter Ln. FREE. ideapublicschools.org or 512-822-4200.
Wed 5
Little Red Riding Hood. A play for children. 10 a.m. EmilyAnn Theatre, 1101 FM 235, Wimberley. $8 child; $10 adult. emilyann.org or 512-847-6969.
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Arts and Crafts. 4:30 p.m. See Sat 8 for details. Leander Bluegrass Festival. 6 to 10 p.m. See Fri 28 for details.
Sat 1
The Mystery of the Green Teeth Ghost. A play about a brave young detective for grades K – 2. 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Rollins Studio Theatre at the Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive. pollytheatre.org or 512-743-7966.
Literature Live! Presents: Tales from Graves. Three not-so-scary tales of monsters, mischief and mayhem. 10:15 a.m. Cepeda Branch Library, 651 N. Pleasant Valley Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7372.
中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground. 3 p.m. See Sat 1 for details.
Mad Science. 10 to 11 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org. Storytime & Craft. 11 a.m. See Sat 8 for details. The Mystery of the Green Teeth Ghost. 2 p.m. See Fri 28 for details.
Household Hazardous Waste Collection. Dispose of residential paint and other household chemicals. 3 to 6 p.m. Recycling Center, 310 Deepwood Dr., Round Rock. FREE for City of Round Rock water utility customers. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5559.
Sat 8 Household Hazardous Waste Collection. Dispose of residential paint and other household chemicals. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. City of Leander Public Works complex, 607 Municipal Dr., Leander. FREE for Williamson County residents. leandertx.gov or 512-259-2640.
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Mon 10 Money Matters. Financial literacy workshop for ages 13 and up. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE with registration. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-255-6799.
Thu 13 Grand Opening. 9 to 10 a.m. Wayside School, 10704 Bradshaw Rd. FREE. waysideschools.org.
Sat 15 Breastfeeding Support Group. 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Baylor Scott & White Pediatric Clinic, 425 University Blvd, Round Rock. FREE. tinyurl.com/yc2dg3z7 or 512-509-6455.
Programs subject to change. Please contact before attending.
All Ages Storytime. 10:15 a.m. Pleasant Hill Branch Library, 211 E. William Cannon Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3940.
MONDAYS
All Ages Storytime. 10:15 a.m. Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-1010.
Libraries closed Sept. 3 Terrific Toddlers Story Time. 9:30 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-259-5259. Baby Time for 3 – 12 mos. 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
Spanish Circle Time. 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
Spanish Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-259-5259.
Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Elgin Library, 404 N. Main St. elginpubliclibrary.org or 512-281-5678.
Infant Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045.
Baby Bumblebees Story Time (Sept. 11 and 25 only). 10:30 a.m. Bee Cave Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. pl.beecavetexas.com or 512-767-6620.
Mon 17
Baby Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
College Planning Workshop. 6 to 7 p.m. Austin Central Library, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St. FREE. tinyurl.com/yd448563 or 310-435-8843.
Baby Time for 12 – 18 mos. 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
Thu 27
Evening Storytime. 6:30 p.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400.
College Planning Workshop. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. FREE. tinyurl.com/yc9c7zqn or 310-435-8843.
Sun 30 Grand Opening. 1 to 3 p.m. The Coder School Austin, 3616 Far West Blvd. austin.thecoderschool.com or 512-593-2729.
Story Times Public library story time events listed here are free unless otherwise noted.
TUESDAYS Baby and Me Lapsit. 9:15 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-255-2569. Baby Story Time. 9:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3551. Lapsit Storytime. 9:45 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600. Bilingual Story Time. 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
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Little STEAMers. 10:30 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-255-2569.
Bilingual Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Spanish Dual Language Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3625. Lapsit Storytime. 10:45 a.m. Elgin Library, 404 N. Main St. elginpubliclibrary.org or 512-281-5678. Bilingual Story Time. 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. Music & Movement. 11 a.m. Ruiz Branch Library, 1600 Grove Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500. Spanish Dual Language Storytime. 11 a.m. North Village Branch Library, 2505 Steck Ave. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9960. Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Spicewood Springs Branch Library, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3800.
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Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600.
All Ages Storytime. 10:15 a.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8800.
Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. North Village Branch Library, 2505 Steck Ave. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9960.
Story Time. 11 a.m. San Marcos Library, 625 E. Hopkins St. sanmarcostx.gov or 512-393-8200.
Spanish Dual Language Storytime. 10:15 a.m. St. John Branch Library, 7500 Blessing Ave. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7570.
Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Old Quarry Branch Library, 7051 Village Center Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8860.
Baby Bumblebees Story Time (Sept. 11 and 25 only). 11:15 a.m. Bee Cave Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. pl.beecavetexas.com or 512-767-6620. Family Storytime. 6 p.m. Buda Library, 303 Main St. budalibrary.org or 512-295-5899. Storytime and Craft. 6:30 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
WEDNESDAYS Babytime. 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Toddlertime. 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Lapsit Storytime. 9:45 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600. Story Time. 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
Circle Time. 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188. Baby Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Lake Travis Library, 1938 Lohman's Crossing, Lake Travis. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Buda Library, 303 Main St. budalibrary.org or 512-295-5899. Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Preschool Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3551. Preschool Express. 10:30 a.m. Kyle Library, 550 Scott St. cityofkyle.com or 512-268-7411. Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Toddlertime. 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Story Time. 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375. All Ages Storytime. 11 a.m. University Hills Branch Library, 4721 Loyola Ln. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9940. All Ages Storytime. 11 a.m. Willie Mae Kirk Branch Library, 3101 Oak Springs Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9920.
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Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Twin Oaks Branch Library, 1800 S. 5th St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9980. Spanish Language Storytime. 11 a.m. Manchaca Road Branch Library, 5500 Manchaca Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700. Sensory Storytime. 11:15 a.m. Yarborough Branch Library, 2200 Hancock Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8820. Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600. Bow Wow Reading. 4:30 p.m. Little Walnut Creek Branch Library, 853 W. Rundberg Ln. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9860. Pajama Storytime. 6:30 p.m. St. John Branch Library, 7500 Blessing Ave. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7570.
THURSDAYS Terrific Toddlers Storytime. 9:30 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-255-2569. Preschool Storytime. 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Babytime. 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Lapsit Storytime. 9:45 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600. Story Time. 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
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Baby Lapsit. 10 a.m. Kyle Library, 550 Scott St. cityofkyle.com or 512-268-7411. Music & Movement. 10:15 a.m. Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-1010. Spanish Storytime. 10:15 a.m. Pleasant Hill Branch, 211 E. William Cannon Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-3940. All Ages Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Little Walnut Creek Branch Library, 853 W. Rundberg Ln. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9860. All Ages Storytime. 10:30 a.m. St. John Branch Library, 7500 Blessing Ave. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7570. Spanish Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3551. Toddlertime. 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045. Preschool Pals Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Bee Cave Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. pl.beecavetexas.com or 512-767-6620.
Spanish Storytime. 11 a.m. Ruiz Branch Library, 1600 Grove Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7500.
Family Story Time. 11 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400.
Sign Language Storytime. 11:15 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
Storytime and Craft. 11 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-989-3188.
Preschool Pals Story Time. 11:15 a.m. Bee Cave Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. pl.beecavetexas.com or 512-767-6620. Cuddle Up and Read. 2 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch, 5500 Manchaca Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700.
FRIDAYS Babytime. 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400. Story Time. 10 a.m. Briarcliff Community Center, 22801 Briarcliff Dr., Spicewood. laketravislibrary.org or 512-263-2885. Baby and Me Lapsit. 10 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-255-5259. All Ages Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Central Library, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-7400. Toddlertime. 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 221 E. Main St. roundrocktexas.gov or 512-218-5400.
Toddler Tales Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Bee Cave Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. pl.beecavetexas.com or 512-767-6620.
Story Time. 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
Discovery Time. 10:30 a.m. Dripping Springs Library, 501 Sportsplex Dr. dscl.org or 512-858-7825.
Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600.
Toddler Tales Story Time. 11:15 a.m. Bee Cave Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. pl.beecavetexas.com or 512-767-6620.
Early Literacy Playgroup. 11 a.m. Southeast Branch Library, 5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8840.
Preschool Storytime. 11:15 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512-789-3188.
Music & Movement. 11 a.m. Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8800.
SATURDAYS
Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Milwood Branch, 12500 Amherst Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-9880. Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Yarborough Branch, 2200 Hancock Dr. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8820.
Saturday Story Time. 1 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
SUNDAYS Sensory Story Time. 11 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045.
For a Full List Please Visit the Calendar at www.AustinFamily.com
Family Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 402 W. 8th St. library.georgetown.org or 512-930-3551.
Toddler Time. 11 a.m. Kyle Library, 550 Scott St. cityofkyle.com or 512-268-7411.
Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m. Manchaca Road Branch, 5500 Manchaca Rd. library.austintexas.gov or 512-974-8700.
Family Storytime. 12:30 p.m. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Dr. westbanklibrary.com or 512-327-3045.
Family Story Time. 10 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov or 512-255-2569. Family Storytime. 10 a.m. Cedar Park Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park. cedarparktexas.gov or 512-401-5600. Baby Time. 10:30 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. library.pflugervilletx.gov or 512-990-6375.
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PIENSA POSITIVO by Leslie Montoya, life coach and host of Despierta Austin
Offender Es interesante cómo el ser humano puede ofender a la persona que dice amar por cosas simples como el dejar desordenada la casa o simplemente malentendidos pero raramente lo haría con un extraño por las mismas razones. Frases como “es que me sacas de mis casillas”, “porque te tengo confianza” entre otras, son las excusas trilladas que se usan para justificar la ofensa. No es lo que se dice, sino la manera en que se dice lo que tiene el poder de herir o restaurar. Si lo amas y tienes que expresar tu molestia hazlo – pero antes prepara a tu corazón y lengua como si se lo tuvieras que decir a tu jefe, un conocido o extraño. ¡Piensa Positivo!
To offend It’s interesting how human beings can offend the people we claim to love by simply leaving the house untidy or with simple misunderstandings, but rarely would we do it to a stranger for the same reasons. Phrases like "you get on my nerves" and "because I trust you" are common excuses that are used to justify the offense. It’s not what is said, but the way it’s said that has the power to hurt or restore. If you love someone and you need to express your discomfort, do it – but first prepare your heart and tongue as if you had to tell your boss, an acquaintance or even a stranger. Think positive!
focus on
DOCTORS adver tisement
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 36
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SMART SCREEN TIME
KID
Paper Rockets
1.
2.
3.
Three … two … one… BLAST OFF! Today you’re an aerospace engineer, and your goal is to make a rocket fly. As you exhale, the air in your lungs will move through a straw and into the rocket. When the air enters the rocket, it has nowhere else to go, so pressure will build up inside the rocket. That pressure will generate a force that launches the rocket. But gravity will, of course, bring it back to Earth. What You Need ➡ Two pieces of construction paper ➡ Clear tape ➡ Scissors ➡ Ruler ➡ Plastic bendy straw ➡ Stickers, markers or washi tape for decoration ➡ Pencils What You Do 1. Cut out a square of construction paper that measures 5 inches by 5 inches. Wrap the square tightly around a pencil. Tape the edge of the paper tube to hold its shape. Remove the pencil. This is the rocket’s body. 2. From the other sheet of paper, cut a circle with a diameter of 2.5 inches. Cut a small “pie piece” shape from the circle and discard it. Tape the edges of the circle’s wedge together to form a cone. This is the rocket’s nose. 3. Tape the nose to one end of the body. Blow into the rocket’s open end. If air can escape through any openings in the closed end, the rocket won’t fly as far. Use tape to close the openings. 4. Insert the long end of the straw into the open end of the rocket. 5. Blow into the short end of the straw to send your rocket flying!
Fans of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, rejoice! The program and its accompanying apps and activities are not only nice, they also have some proven benefits in helping children identify and regulate their emotions. A team of researchers from Texas Tech, Vanderbilt and the University of South Dakota sent tablets home with preschoolers for two consecutive weeks. One group of families received instructions to have their children watch a Daniel Tiger episode and play the Grrr-ific Feelings app once a day for those two weeks. The control group was instructed to play a “control” app and watch a “control” program, neither with a focus on the socio-emotional learning in Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. At the end of the period, the Daniel Tiger parents noted a marked difference in their children’s abilities to identify emotions in themselves and others, and to use Daniel Tiger “tools” (like the “When You Feel So Mad” song) to self-regulate during difficult moments. Two other key findings: those abilities held up in a check one month later, and parents noted that they, too, became involved in discussing and using those Daniel Tiger tools. This last point deserves extra emphasis: when adults engage kids in discussions of educational media, the learning embedded within the media gets an additional boost. Nearly all media can be explored for its educational potential – think of an analysis of strategies to better play Fruit Ninja – but it’s so much easier when the media is educational to begin with! Plus, in our era of digital media abundance, when family members can disappear to their own corners with their own devices and media choices, conversation can bring us back together. September marks the premiere of a new Daniel Tiger movie: Won’t You Be Our Neighbor? Available on TV, on klrukids.org and the free PBS KIDS Video app. Benjamin Kramer, PhD, is the director of education for KLRU-TV, Austin PBS.
More Fun: Use stickers or colors to decorate the rocket. Change the angle of the straw and amount of air pressure to experiment with the flight path.
The world’s greatest challenges need new STEM ideas. Yet half the world’s potential ideamakers — women and girls — are often discouraged from STEM fields. We believe that more girls with more ideas will create more solutions to benefit us all. Visit us online at girlstart.org.
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Swim Diaper Blues
Just for grIns C A R R I E TAY L O R Carrie Taylor is a freelance writer, editor and mother of two boys.
The swim diaper seems like an ingenious invention for the modern parent. But is it? Let’s think about this. A swim diaper doesn’t absorb liquids like a regular diaper, which in water would swell to the size of a watermelon. Its purpose is to contain poop. It’s a poop pouch. And it’s only when the poop net needs changing that you encounter evil incarnate. Have you tried to change a swim diaper on a beach? It’s one of the worst parenting moments I’ve barely survived. Just behind using the restroom post C-section. First, there’s no good way to hold the child. Any amount of pressure on the diaper causes … seepage. So, you have to hold the poor baby by his armpits and swing him ever so gently into a flat position on the changing pad – and dear GOD tell me you have a changing pad and you aren’t attempting this on a plain old beach towel! If so, burn the towel.
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Then slip into your latex gloves. Now, most people don’t think to bring latex gloves to the beach, but once you’ve had to change a doo-doo basket, you’ll never forget them. Next, channel your inner Derek Shepherd and sloooowly tear apart the sides of the diaper, careful to not disturb its vile contents. Now remove the diaper and begin wiping in one clever swoop of pancake-flipping dexterity. Even if you get through this step and chose the least sandy location to perform it, there is still sand in the child’s bottom. There will be sand for many bath times to come. There is sand under your nails. There is sand in your dreams. But yes, the beach day memories are worth it. And one day the child will be potty-trained, and one day that child will go to the beach and scream about having to go potty, and pull his pants down and do his business right in front of God and everyone.
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