Austin family magazine septemer 2015 by Austin Family Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2015

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smart parenting • healthy homes

Serving Austin’s Families Since 1992

Music Lessons: 5 Mistakes You Shouldn’t Make

Meet the Founder of Hand to Hold Your Guide to Nursing in Public What Happened to Cursive?

ARTÍCULOS EN ESPAÑOL

INSIDE!

AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE• CALENDAR • YOUNG WRITERS CONTEST

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SEPTEMBER 2015

smart parenting • healthy homes

A New Mom’s Guide to Nursing in Public

26 Not Alone: Serving the Emotional Side for NICU Parents

5 Mistakes to Avoid in Picking a Music Teacher

columns

calendar

32 Family Events 38 Parenting Events 40 Storytimes

16 Asuntos Familiares

in every issue

22 Curva de Aprendizaje

Ten Things…for National Better Breakfast Month! Family Matters

Our Kids Need More Exercise

20 The Learning Curve

Erased from the Curriculum: Is Cursive a Thing of the Past?

Lifelines

Emergency 411: The Scoop on How to Choose Among ERs, Urgent Care and Walk-in Clinics

30 Family Connections

Craigslist and Beyond: The Modern Yard Sale Grows Up

48 Just for Grins

Hot and Sweaty: Breastfeeding in Public

tune in

Catch Austin Family live on “Good Day Austin” every Friday morning and “Despierta Austin” the first Friday morning of the month.

Play It Safe

Homemade Watercolors

extras 24 Afterschool

Nuestros Hijos Necesitan Hacer Más Ejercicio

Borrado del Plan de Estudios ¿La Letra Cursiva Es una Cosa del Pasado?

Product recalls

8 Around Austin 47 Kidzone

artículos en español

45 Piensa Positivo

Expectativas de Vida

Cover Shot

Jordan enjoys learning to play guitar.

Cover photographed by Nichole Renee

Activity Guide

43 Cover Kids Contest 44 Focus on Doctors 46 Young Writers Contest

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New items each week. Visit our website to register.

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® BY SHERIDA MOCK

September 2015

eptember is a great time to establish routines: a new school year has begun, and the holidays are several weeks away. With that in mind, we bring you our issue highlighting arts and extracurricular activities. If it’s time to choose a music teacher for your child, turn to Klondike Steadman’s article discussing mistakes to avoid. And whether it’s sports, dance, music or tutoring, you’ll find what you’re looking for in our handy Afterschool Activity Guide. There are many ways to create an active lifestyle for your family, and Betty Richardson discusses those in her Family Matters column. September is Better Breakfast Month, a perfect time to get in the habit of eating the day’s most important meal in nutritious fashion. Our 10 Things piece has ten great ideas for shaking things up in the morning. And how about clutter? I’ve been thinking about it a lot, since hearing positive comments about Marie Kondo’s best seller on Amazon, “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.” Richard Singleton’s column this month contains tips for purging the stuff you no longer need. So let this change in the seasons inspire you to make a change in your family’s life. Play some music. Take a walk around the neighborhood. Clear out that attic or garage. But most importantly, have a great month with your family!

Volume 23, No. 6

PUBLISHER

Kaye K. Lowak

EDITOR

Sherida Mock: editor2003@austinfamily.com

COPY EDITOR

Paula Halloum Assistant Copy Editor: Alexa Alley

ADVISING EDITORS

Dr. Betty Kehl Richardson, Barb Cooper

CALENDAR EDITOR

Betty Kemper: calendar2003@austinfamily.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sherida Mock, Dr. Betty Richardson, Jack Kyser, Richard Singleton, Jennifer VanBuren, Carrie Taylor, Sara Rider, Alyssa Chirco and Klondike Steadman

TRANSLATION TEAM

Maribel Ruvalcaba, Margo Vogelpohl, Rocio Barbosa

ART DIRECTORS

Layout Designer: Dena Steiner Ad Designer: Jason Suarez nr2003@austinfamily.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Nichole Renee

ADVERTISING SALES

Kaye K. Lowak: kaye2003@austinfamily.com Greg Lowak: greg@austinfamily.com

BUSINESS & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Greg Lowak: greg@austinfamily.com

We are dedicated to serving the Greater Austin area by providing up-to-date information and ideas that promote smart parenting and healthy homes. We promote our clients’ businesses by increasing their customer bases and enhancing their public images. Austin Family is published monthly by KKKemper Inc. Mail Address: P.O. Box 7559 Round Rock, Texas 78683-7559 Phone Number:

Tel: (512) 733-0038

On the web at:

www.austinfamily.com

Advertising rates are available upon request. While we use great care in creating our display ads, mistakes can happen. Austin Family and the publisher are not liable for any damages arising from any typographical or mechanical errors beyond the cost of the ad. Austin Family does not necessarily endorse any of the advertisers, products or services listed in this publication. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. No portion of Austin Family may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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Play it product recalls

safe

Government Recalls Night Lights, Children’s Watches and Onesies Target is recalling about 143,000 night lights because the battery can overheat and cause the night light to melt, posing a fire hazard. The recall involves battery-operated night lights with an AC adapter included. The night light collection includes a pink hedgehog, a blue bird, a yellow rocket, an orange dino egg, a white soccer ball and a green shark. Affected units were sold at Target stores nationwide and Target.com from October 2014 through May 2015 for about $15. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled night lights, unplug them and return them to any Target store for a full refund. MZB is recalling about 1.9 million children’s watches because the case-back of the watch can detach and expose the interior to water, posing a risk of skin irritation, redness, rashes or chemical burns. The recall involves 303 styles of “Light Up” watches that are identified by a style number. A complete list of the serial numbers is listed on the firm’s website, regcen.com. Affected units were sold at Kmart, Kohl’s, Walmart and other retailers nationwide from October 2012 through June 2015 for between $5 and $20. Consumers should immediately take the recalled watches away from children and contact MZB for a refund. Precious Cargo is recalling about 479,000 infant one-piece garments because the snaps on the garment can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. The recall involves Precious Cargo infant onepiece garments with a three-snap bottom closure. The garments are 100 percent cotton and were sold in sizes 6M, 12M and 18M. Affected units were sold at promotional product distributors, screen printers, embroiderers and gift shops from July 2014 to July 2015 for about $4. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled garments and contact Precious Cargo to return them for a full refund. af The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission works to protect the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products.

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AROUND

Austin G O T O W W W. A U S T I N FA M I LY. C O M F O R W E E K LY U P D AT E S O F A R O U N D A U S T I N N E W S

Must -Do This Month

Seton NICU Receives Kangaroo Care Chair Maggie Boyd, an Austin mother whose son recently spent 51 days in Seton Medical Center Austin’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), nominated Seton Healthcare Family for the Hand to Hold National NICU Grand Prize Giveaway, providing Seton with a Kangaroo Care Chair that is designed to improve the NICU experience for sensitive babies who must remain stable. The chair allows parents to stay reclined for hours without movement and establish essential skin-to-skin contact.

Kelli Kelley of Hand to Hold presents Seton MCA with its kangaroo care chair

Each year Hand to Hold, a nonprofit that supports parents of babies who need NICU care, hosts the contest to encourage parents from across the country to share their NICU stories to help establish peer-to-peer support and education. This year’s prize includes a Kangaroo Care Chair, Boppy Pillows and a set of Zakys developmental care positioners, shaped like parents’ hands to help new families bond by stimulating feelings of warmth, comfort and safety for the baby.

Free Day of Yoga Returns Enjoy a free day of yoga classes September 7, courtesy of a group of Austin area organizers. The classes

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Free Day of Yoga returns September 7

will take place at yoga and dance studios, hospitals, parks, churches and fitness centers throughout the greater metro area. Use the free day to try classes, meet instructors and experience a variety of styles of yoga. Organizers say some styles of yoga are physically challenging and athletic, while others focus on relaxation and meditation. The benefits of practicing yoga include increasing flexibility and strength, improving balance and relieving stress.

Sign up the kids for extracurriculars like scouts, sports and music. Get the family breakfast routine on track. See our 10 Things column for ideas. Grandparents’ Day is September 13. Celebrate with a call, card or visit.

Organizer Mary Ester says, “The Free Day of Yoga is our way of saying thank you to our community for supporting us in our quest to expand the awareness of this ancient practice. There is a class for everyone—whether you are tall, short, round, thin, physically active or sedentary.” Plan to arrive early and with an empty stomach or after a light snack. Bring your own yoga mat. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and be prepared to remove your shoes. For a complete list of the Free Day of Yoga schedule and locations, visit freedayofyoga.com.

Terra Toys Celebrates 35 Years Terra Toys, the iconic, home-grown Austin toy store, is celebrating its 35th birthday this month with free events and a commemorative t-shirt.

The store, which opened in 1978, will have free birthday cake from Sweetish Hill Bakery, party games and prizes September 25 and 26. Those who purchase a limited edition t-shirt will receive a free mix CD of the store’s musical choices from around the world. In addition, the store is opening WindUp, an in-store, fully organic espresso bar, with drink specials.

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Terra Toys is located at 2438 W. Anderson Lane. Hours for the party are noon to 6 p.m. RSVP is requested for groups of five or more by calling 512-445-4489.

Stepping Stone Students Step Up

Continuing Education Professional hours are available for teachers. Register at dsact.org.

Boys and Girls Club Hosts Etiquette Dinner On August 18, a group of kids from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Austin Area attended a night of fine dining at Ruth’s Chris steakhouse in downtown Austin. The dinner was hosted by Brian Jones, a former UT and NFL football player turned CBS sports football analyst and Sharon Schweitzer, an etiquette expert at Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide.

Rouse High School physics teacher Dustin Smerek (left) and 3M corporate research and development specialist Carl Fisher (right) collaborated this summer in 3M’s TWIST mentoring program

least I can do to keep giving back to the organization that helped make me who I am today.”

3M Mentors Local High School Teachers

Stepping Stone students and teachers celebrate their fundraising efforts for Ronald McDonald House Charities

This school year, students at two Leander ISD high schools will benefit from their teachers’ “summer camp” experience at 3M’s Teachers Working in Science and Technology (TWIST) program, a paid, full-time mentoring program for community educators.

Over the summer through its Young Entrepreneurs and Philanthropists program, students at Stepping Stone School conducted four “businesses” to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. Stepping Stone School matched and exceeded those fundraising efforts, and on August 21, presented a check totaling $6,500 to the charity.

Hear New Learning Strategies for Down Syndrome The Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas is offering a class on reading and math strategies for children with Down syndrome. Assistant Professor Chris Lemons from Vanderbilt University will present his recent findings on reading interventions for students with Down syndrome. In addition, J.C. Sanders, an education specialist at the Education Service Center, will provide strategies and ideas on how to best adapt and modify the general education curriculum. Registration is now open for the class, scheduled for September 29 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3003 Northland Dr. Fees are $15 per person with lunch included. Teachers who register before September 10 pay $10.

For six weeks this summer, Vandegrift High School physics teacher Andrew Perrone and Rouse High School physics teacher Dustin Smerek worked closely with 3M specialists to take a deep dive into product design, development and application using the latest technologies.

Former football player Brian Jones hosted an etiquette dinner for kids from the Boys and Girls Club of the Austin Area

This was the 13th year for the event. Jones, a former club kid from Lubbock, was inspired to host the dinner after a personal experience. As a high school student on a recruiting trip to UCLA, Jones ordered a filet at an upscale restaurant, assuming he would be served fish. He was shocked and embarrassed to realize he had ordered a steak—filet mignon. “I don’t want any kid to go through the discomfort and embarrassment that I felt,” says Jones. “The Club made a profound impact on my life, and it is the

by the

numbers

-2.6 million

Decline in kids playing sports from 2008 to 2013. Source: The Aspen Institute’s Project Play

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“I was able to see how science was applied on a daily basis in an industry setting,” said Smerek. “The biggest thing for me to take back to my classroom is a science attitude. As in any laboratory environment, experiments do not always go as planned. The scientists at 3M keep moving forward while learning something new. A failure is turned into a learning experience.”

Rate at which students who study art are more likely to be recognized for academic achievement. Source: DoSomething.org

51%

Percentage of American households that own a musical instrument. Source: National Association of Music Merchants

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10 THINGS

For Better Breakfast Month!

Step away from the pop tart and lend your mornings some nutrition and funâ&#x20AC;Ś

1 2 3

Yogurt parfait

4 5 6

Funny face bagel Breakfast pita

Peanut butter toast Fresh fruit smoothie Oatmeal with berries

9 10

7 8

Banana hot dog Egg in a hole

Crunchy apple rings

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Scrambled roll-up

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nursing A New Mom’s Guide to

in public

by Alyssa Chirco

You survived childbirth and learned the art of a successful latch, but if you have decided to breastfeed your baby, there is one final frontier you will need to conquer: the art of nursing in public. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months, and continued breastfeeding—along with the introduction of complimentary solids—for one year or more. While not every mother chooses to breastfeed, those who do are likely to breastfeed longer and enjoy the experience more by learning to nurse in public with confidence and ease. Practice Makes Perfect For many new moms, breastfeeding presents enough of a challenge in the comfort of your own living room, so the thought of nursing in public—where other people might see you—can be terrifying. To boost your confidence, practice in front of a mirror so you can catch a glimpse of what others will (and will not) be able to see. When you are ready to venture out of the house for the first time, consider attending a local breastfeeding support group or grabbing coffee with a supportive friend. “I started small—going to the same coffee shop every day—for practice,” says breastfeeding mom Rhianna Mathias. “It was a shop I’d patronized a lot before baby, so I was familiar with

the staff and felt comfortable there. Nursing in a group setting (for us a mom’s group in the early days) was also a comfortable place to practice and gain confidence.”

Find Your Comfort Zone Some mothers feel totally at ease lifting their shirts to nourish their newborns, no matter where they happen to be. Others prefer a bit more privacy. No matter what your personal preference, be prepared when you head out in public by scoping out the setting as soon as you arrive. Look for a comfortable chair or bench where you will be able to sit and nurse when baby gets hungry. If you are dining out and prefer to breastfeed discreetly, ask for a corner booth or table so you can sit with your

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back to other patrons. Many shopping centers and museums also offer private nursing stations as a courtesy to breastfeeding mothers. “I found that corners were my friends because I could simply turn a bit to get her started,” says Melissa McAlpine of her experience nursing her daughter in public. “After the baby is latched on, there’s not really anything to see, so I could swivel back.”

Dress for Success The right clothes and accessories make all the difference when you’re out in public and baby decides it is time for a meal. Wear a stretchy sports bra that can be pulled aside as needed, or learn how to unhook and lower the cups of your nursing bra with one hand.

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Many breastfeeding mothers like to pair a specially designed nursing tank top with a cardigan or loose blouse, since the top can be lifted up while the tank still covers your middle (where many of us have stretch marks we would prefer to keep hidden). Other mothers prefer to simply unbutton a few top buttons. A fussy baby is what draws attention, so wear clothes that make it easy to get your baby latched on quickly. A few key accessories can also make nursing in public easier. Learn how to nurse while carrying baby in a sling or baby carrier. Try wearing a fashionable scarf or poncho that can double as a cover when baby is breastfeeding. Mom of two Melody Meiners is a fan of nursing covers, specifically the kind that have weights in one side or that tie around your neck and tent up. “It makes switching sides so much easier if you prefer to stay covered,” she says.

instance that you are asked to stop or cover up. Also be aware that, sensationalized news stories aside, most people genuinely support your right to nurse in public, and mothers do it every day. “I never had any rude comments, in ten years of nursing, only supportive ones,” says breastfeeding veteran and mom of four Jennifer Heffern. Martine Samocha, who also breastfed four children, adds that, “even though you think everyone is watching you, you are mostly being ignored.”

will gain confidence gradually, so in the early days and weeks, smile politely at passers-by and rest assured that the more you nurse in public, the less self-conscious you will become. “Eventually,” says Robinson, “you will appreciate the freedom that comes with knowing that, no matter where you are, you always have the perfect food ready to feed your baby.” af Alyssa Chirco is a freelance journalist and mother of two, as well as a former breastfeeding mom. She has nursed babies in restaurants, on airplanes and even at the beach.

Fake It ‘Til You Make It If you are feeling nervous about breastfeeding your baby in public, you are not alone. “The first few times can seem uncomfortable,” admits mom of two Tammie Egloff, “but it gets easier.” You

“Breastfed babies, especially newborns, nurse frequently,” says Holly Robinson, a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. “No matter how well you plan, eventually you are going to find yourself out of the house with a hungry baby, so it’s important to be prepared.” Know Your Rights Keep in mind that, when it comes to nursing in public, the law is on your side. According to a database maintained by the National Conference of State Legislatures, 46 states (including Texas) have laws that specifically allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location. In addition, 29 states (not including Texas) exempt breastfeeding from public indecency laws. Knowing the law in your home state will help you respond more confidently in the unlikely

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Not too long ago I looked out my window and saw my neighbor and her two small boys wearing rubber boots and playing in puddles of water from the rain. Their laughter was so contagious I had the urge to join them.

BY BETTY RICHARDSON

Our kids seldom go outside to play. I think they need more exercise, but my husband seems very anxious when they are outside. He worries that they’re going to run into the street or something bad will happen to them. (They are 3, 7 and 13, by the way.) Do you have any suggestions for how to help my husband loosen up and help our kids to get more exercise?

Children—and the rest of us—are affected by the moods and attitudes of those around us. Parents who love the outdoors tend to raise children who grow up to love the outdoors, whereas parents who are seldom outside tend to raise children who stay inside as adults. Parents who are anxious tend to raise children who are anxious. There are numerous possible causes for your husband’s anxiety. Maybe he experienced or read or heard about a tragedy involving a child. Perhaps one of his parents passed down some anxieties to him. While it’s important for your husband to avoid passing those anxieties on to your children, it’s also possible to get lots of exercise indoors. You only have to look at the ads and calendar in Austin Family magazine to find plenty of places to go and get exercise indoors. The benefits of exercise are also myriad and include:

R R R R R R R R R R

Improved ability to fight colds, allergies and diseases through a strengthened immune system. Stronger cardiovascular system. Better control of body fat, reducing the chance of becoming overweight. Increased blood flow and oxygen throughout the body, including the brain. Improved memory and increased concentration, because exercise enhances brain metabolism and function. More energy due to increased oxygen in the body’s cells. Improved mood, reduced anxiety and better quality of sleep. Increased self-esteem and confidence. Healthier muscles, bones and joints. Improved motor coordination.

It seems clear that exercise is good for us, so how do we motivate ourselves and our children? One answer lies in finding activities we enjoy. You could invite your children to brainstorm with you to create a list of activities and then participate in a discussion of which ones would be the most fun. If their choices involve parental participation, such as providing drinks or snacks or cheering them on, then do so cheerfully. Maybe you could talk your husband into shooting baskets at an indoor gym with the older kids, and your pre-school child might enjoy a playgroup where parents do activities with the kids. You and your husband and older children might want to wear pedometers and challenge each other to meet your goals. Find time for each one in the family to exercise and schedule it on the calendar. Be a role model for your kids in doing things like taking stairs instead of the elevator. Your husband may never laugh and play in puddles with the kids, but it could open up a world of outside activities for you and the children if he were more comfortable with being outside. You might ask your husband to talk with a therapist about his anxieties. af Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., is an Austin-based psychotherapist who specializes in dealing with the problems of children, adolescents and parents.

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No hace mucho miré por mi ventana y vi a mi vecina y sus dos niños pequeños usando botas de goma y jugando en los charcos de agua de la lluvia. Su risa era tan contagiosa que tuve el deseo de salir afuera con ellos.

BY BETTY RICHARDSON

Nuestros hijos rara vez salen afuera a jugar. Yo pienso que necesitan más ejercicio, pero mi marido parece ponerse muy ansioso cuando están afuera. Le preocupa que salgan corriendo a la calle o que algo malo les ocurra. (Por cierto, ellos tienen 3, 7 y 13 años de edad.) ¿Tiene alguna sugerencia sobre cómo ayudar a mi marido a relajarse un poco y ayudar a nuestros hijos a hacer más ejercicio?

Los niños—y el resto de nosotros—se ven afectados por el estado de ánimo y actitudes de los que nos rodean. Los padres que aman la vida al aire libre tienden a criar niños que crecen amando la naturaleza, mientras que los padres que rara la vez salen afuera tienden a criar niños que de adultos permanecen adentro. Los padres que están ansiosos tienden a criar niños que son ansiosos. Existen numerosas causas posibles para la ansiedad de su marido. Tal vez experimentó o leyó o escuchó algo sobre una tragedia que involucraba a un niño. Quizás uno de sus padres le transmitió algunas ansiedades a él. Si bien es importante para su marido evitar pasar esas ansiedades a sus hijos, también se puede hacer mucho ejercicio en el interior. Sólo tiene que mirar los anuncios y el calendario en la revista Austin Family para encontrar muchos sitios para ir y hacer ejercicio en el interior. Los beneficios del ejercicio son también innumerables e incluyen:

R R R R R R R R R R

Mejora la capacidad para combatir resfriados, alergias y enfermedades a través de un sistema inmunológico fortalecido. Sistema cardiovascular más fuerte. Mejor control de la grasa corporal, lo que reduce la posibilidad de tener sobrepeso. Aumento del flujo de sangre y oxígeno a través del cuerpo, incluyendo el cerebro. Mejora la memoria y el aumento de la concentración ya que el ejercicio mejora el metabolismo y la función cerebral. Más energía debido al aumento de oxígeno en las células del cuerpo. Mejora el estado de ánimo, reduce la ansiedad y una mejor calidad del sueño. Aumenta la autoestima y la confianza. Músculos, huesos y articulaciones más sanos. Mejora la coordinación motora.

Parece claro que el ejercicio es bueno para nosotros, así que ¿cómo motivarnos a nosotros mismos y a nuestros hijos? Una respuesta se encuentra en buscar actividades que nos gusten. Podría reunirse con sus hijos y juntos aportar ideas para que crear una lista de actividades y luego participar en un debate sobre cuáles serían las más divertidas. Si sus elecciones implican la participación de los padres, como proveer las bebidas o aperitivos o animándolos, entonces hágalo con alegría. Tal vez podría convencer a su marido de ir a tirar canastas en un gimnasio cubierto con los niños de más edad, y su niño de preescolar puede disfrutar de un campo de juego donde los padres hacen actividades con los niños. Usted, su marido y los niños mayores pueden usar podómetros y desafiarse unos a otros para alcanzar sus metas. Encuentre tiempo para cada uno de la familia haga ejercicio y programarlo en el calendario. Sea un modelo para sus hijos en hacer cosas como subir por las escaleras en lugar de usar el ascensor. A la mejor su marido nunca se reirá y jugará en los charcos con los niños, pero podría abrir todo un mundo de actividades exteriores para usted y los niños si él estuviera más cómodo estando afuera. Usted podría pedirle a su marido que hable con un terapeuta sobre sus ansiedades. af Betty Richardson, Ph.D., R.N.C., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., es una psicoterapeuta situada en Austin que se especializa en el tratamiento de los problemas de los niños, adolescentes y padres.

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MUSIC LESSONS:

MISTAKES NOT TO MAKE

A GREAT MUSIC TEACHER SHOULD: ♪ Make a personal connection with the student ♪ Help the student fall in love with music and the instrument ♪ Have a plan that effectively builds technique, a great ear

and musical skills such as reading notes and chords

♪ Provide consistency through reliable, regularly scheduled

lessons ♪ Give the student the learning habits necessary for success Each teacher accomplishes these things in different ways, and a good teacher brings many other valuable skills to the music lesson experience. If you don’t take the time to seek out a professional music teacher, you may still get lucky. (I started lessons with a neighbor down the street who succeeded in the first two areas well enough that I was motivated to overcome deficiencies in the latter areas.) Unfortunately, it is much more common to start lessons joyfully and stop after a few months from lack of progress or connection. Watch out for these five mistakes, and you will be much more likely to give your child the joy of a lifetime of music:

MISTAKE #1:

Prioritize Convenience Over Excellence We are all busy, and driving across the state to get beginning guitar lessons is neither wise nor practical. However, just

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by Klondike Steadman

because someone lives down the street from you, meets your scheduling needs or comes into your child’s school, does not necessarily mean they have training, have a plan or are good with kids.

MISTAKE #2:

Take Free Lessons From a Friend or Relative I’ve heard it before: “We’ve known Gary for years, and my son really admires his playing, so it’s perfect!” Friends are great for inspiration or showing you a few things on the instrument, but they will rarely provide the foundations of a good music education. Ask yourself: Do they give performance opportunities? Do they have a plan for building reading skills? Do they know what to do if your child’s wrist starts to hurt? Most importantly, what happens when they get busy and can’t offer lessons anymore?

MISTAKE #3:

Find the Best Musician Around On the opposite side of the spectrum is the parent who seeks out the best musician in town—the one they (or their child) have seen perform live and everyone loves. While it is possible that this great performer is also a great teacher, it is certainly no guarantee. Great performers without teacher training can make mistakes that hold the student back,

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“

in my 20 years of teaching guitar, I have often been asked what to look for in a music teacher. Selecting an excellent music teacher for your child can be one of the most daunting tasks there is for a parent. And though finding a great teacher can be tough, I find that many people treat this important decision with less care than they would in finding a babysitter.”

such as assigning music that is too difficult for the student’s ability, using lesson time to practice or scolding beginners for ineptitude.

Maybe the student is happy for a while because she enjoys coming to lessons, but sooner or later she is going to notice that she can’t play very well.

MISTAKE #4:

MISTAKE #5:

To be a great teacher (especially for young beginners) requires immense patience and understanding, no question. However, being nice in and of itself is not a qualification for teaching. In fact in the long run, the “nice guy” teacher may turn off more students than the “tough love” teacher, because he fails to help the student build skills that the student can be genuinely proud of.

While the referral of a friend is actually a good first step, you must evaluate the teacher for yourself. Being able to make a connection is the number one asset of any good music teacher, but by itself it’s not enough. If the student has a great time and loves her teacher but learns nothing (or worse—learns bad habits), she will likely quit because she has no skills and therefore no ability to express herself musically.

He’s Really Nice…

Your Friend’s Kid Loves the Guy!

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— Klondike Steadman

So what can you do? A referral from someone who loves his teacher is a good start. So are online reviews. Then ask about the teacher’s plan for success: regular recitals, fun songs, a good practice routine and so forth. Finally, see if you can attend a recital or observe a lesson. The results of excellence will always show: a great music teacher will have many great music students. af Klondike Steadman is a guitar instructor and music academy director. He and his wife, Wendy Kuo, work to bring together teachers who are dedicated to teaching excellence.

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B Y J E N N I F E R VA N B U R E N

y friend didn’t notice that cursive had been cut from her son’s curriculum until she watched him “sign” a code of conduct agreement. It got her thinking. Are curlicues and loopy letters a relic of the past, gone the way of calligraphy and the abacus? Many experts believe so, but cursive proponents think it is a big mistake to erase cursive from the school curriculum. As often is the case, the bottom line is time. Educators are hard pressed to fit in the required curriculum, and every minute of the day counts. The Common Core, a set of academic standards adopted by 45 states and the District of Columbia, does not include cursive writing.

While Texas is one of the few states to opt out of the Common Core, many schools here have ceased teaching script writing in favor of keyboarding and computer skills believed to be more relevant to students’ lives and futures.

it is when you receive a beautifully cursive-written letter. It’s like a work of art,” Graham says. “It’s pretty, but is that a reason for keeping something, given that we do less and less of those kinds of cards anymore?”

Tradition vs. Practicality

What about historical documents, like the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence? Will future historians who lack the ability to read cursive be able to study original documents? Kate Gladstone, founder of Handwriting Repair/Handwriting That Works and the director of the World Handwriting Contest argues that handwriting matters, but not cursive.

Many of the arguments for teaching cursive writing are sentimental. Memories of receiving an elegant letter in the mail. Grandmother’s notes in the attic. Historical documents with their forward facing loops and curves. Steve Graham, an education professor at Arizona State University and one of the top U.S. experts on handwriting instruction, explains, “What I typically hear for keeping cursive is how nice

She says, “Reading cursive matters, but even children can be taught to read writing that they are not taught to

Erased from the

Curriculum

Is Cursive a Thing of the Past or a Necessity for the Future?

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produce. Reading cursive can be taught in just 30 to 60 minutes— even to 5- or 6-year-olds—once they read ordinary print. Why not teach children to read cursive, along with teaching other vital skills, including a handwriting style typical of effective handwriters?”

when children composed text by hand, they produced more words and at a higher rate while expressing a greater variety of ideas.

your child can sign a check or scribble a signature with his fingertip at the checkout line? The cursive debate is one that is likely to go on for years. af

Is it worth instructional time to ensure

Jennifer VanBuren is a Georgetown mother of three, educator and childbirth doula.

Developmental Benefits

The decline of teaching cursive in schools has sparked scientific interest on the effects. “When we write, a unique neural circuit is automatically activated,” says Stanislas Dehaene, a psychologist at the Collège de France in Paris. “There is a core recognition of the gesture in the written word, a sort of recognition by mental simulation in your brain,” he says. “Learning is made easier.” Karin James, a psychologist at Indiana University, used brain scanners to observe physiological differences between brain functions. Participants in this study were children who had yet to read or write. They were given a letter or shape and asked to reproduce it in one of three ways: type it on a computer, trace it on a page with a dotted outline or draw it on a blank line. Brain scans showed that the children who had drawn the letter freehand showed increased activity in three areas of the brain that are activated when adults read and write. This increase in activity was not seen in the other two sets of children. When writing cursive, the brain is required to control hand and finger movements while visually tracking the nuanced and changing positions of the pencil. This could account for the increase of neural activity. This coordination and tracking are also believed to aid in fine motor skills and motor planning, which is particularly helpful for students with certain learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. Virginia Berninger, a psychologist at the University of Washington, studied children in grades two through five. She found that unique brain patterns are activated by printing, cursive writing and typing. She also determined that Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

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B Y J E N N I F E R VA N B U R E N

i amiga no se dio cuenta de que la letra cursiva había sido cortada del plan de estudios de su hijo hasta que lo vio “firmar” un acuerdo del código de conducta. La puso a pensar. ¿Son acaso los ringorrangos y las letras en espiral una reliquia del pasado, siguiendo el camino de la caligrafía y él ábaco? Muchos expertos lo creen, pero defensores de la letra cursiva creen que es un gran error el borrar la letra cursiva del plan de estudios. Como suele ser el caso, el punto fundamental es el tiempo. Los educadores se ven presionados para introducir el plan de estudios requerido y cada minuto del día cuenta. El Common Core, que es un conjunto de estándares académicos adoptados por 45 estados y el distrito de Columbia, no incluye la escritura cursiva. Mientras que Texas es uno de los pocos estados que optaron no adoptar el Common Core, muchas escuelas aquí han dejado de enseñar la escritura de letra

cursiva y se han ido más a favor de la mecanografía y computación ya que se consideran más relevantes para la vida y el futuro de los estudiantes.

Tradición vs. Sentido Práctico

Muchos de los argumentos a favor de enseñar la escritura cursiva son sentimentales. Memorias de recibir una carta elegante en el correo. Notas de la abuela en el ático. Documentos históricos con sus letras en espiral hacia delante y sus curvas. Steve Graham, profesor de educación en la Universidad Estatal de Arizona y uno de los mejores expertos de los Estados Unidos en la instrucción de escritura explica, “Lo que normalmente escucho de los que quieren conservar la escritura cursiva, es lo bonito que es cuando recibes una carta bellamente escrita con letra cursiva. Es como una obra de arte,” dijo Graham. “¿Es bonito, pero es esta una buena razón para conservar algo, dado que hacemos cada vez menos de este tipo de cartas?” (Además, la abuela esta probablemente

enviando correos electrónicos, publicando en los medios sociales y Skyping con sus nietos.) ¿Y qué de los documentos históricos, como la Constitución y la Declaración de la Independencia? ¿Y los futuros historiadores que carecen de la capacidad de leer escritura cursiva podrán estudiar documentos históricos originales? Kate Gladstone, fundadora de Reparación de la Escritura a Mano/Escritura a Mano que Funciona y la directora del Concurso Mundial de Escritura a Mano, sostiene la opinión que la escritura a mano es importante, pero no la cursiva. Ella dice, “Leer la escritura en letra cursiva importa, pero incluso a los niños se les puede enseñar a leer la escritura que no se les enseña a producir. La lectura en letra cursiva se les puede enseñar en tan sólo 30 a 60 minutos—incluso a niños de 5 o 6 años de edad—una vez que puedan leer la letra ordinaria. ¿Por qué no enseñar a los niños a leer la letra cursiva, junto con la enseñanza de otras habilidades vitales, incluyendo un estilo de escritura típica de escritores eficaces?”

Borrado del Plan de Estudios ¿La Letra Cursiva Es una Cosa del Pasado?

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¿Cuál es su posición? ¿Deberían seguir enseñando la escritura cursiva en las escuelas? Visite austinfamily.com para participar en nuestra encuesta

Beneficios del Desarrollo La decadencia de enseñar la letra cursiva en las escuelas ha despertado interés científico sobre los efe ctos de este cambio de la letra cursiva a la de mecanografía. “Cuando escribimos, un circuito neural único se activa de forma automática,” dice Stanislas Dehaene, un psicólogo en el Collège de France en París. “Hay un reconocimiento básico del gesto en la palabra escrita, una especie de reconocimiento por parte de la simulación mental en el cerebro. Tal parece ser que este circuito contribuye de una forma única que no nos percatamos,” dice. “El aprendizaje se hace más fácil.”

palabras y a un nivel más alto mientras expresando una mayor variedad de ideas. ¿Vale la pena el tiempo de instrucción para asegurar que su hijo(a) pueda firmar un cheque o garabatear una firma con la punta del dedo en la caja al comprar

algo? El debate sobre la letra cursiva es uno que puede continuar durante años. af Jennifer VanBuren es una educadora, doula, y madre de tres hijos que vive en Georgetown.

Karin James, una psicóloga de la Universidad de Indiana, utiliza escáneres cerebrales para observar las diferencias fisiológicas entre las funciones del cerebro. Los participantes en este estudio fueron los niños que aún no podían leer o escribir. Se les dio una letra o una figura y pidieron reproducirla en una de tres maneras: escribirla en una computadora, trazarla en una página siguiendo una línea de puntos o dibujarla en una línea en blanco. Los escáneres cerebrales mostraron que el grupo de niños que habían escrito la letra a pulso mostraron una mayor actividad en tres áreas del cerebro que se activan cuando los adultos leen y escriben. Este aumento de la actividad no se observó en los otros dos grupos de niños. Al escribir en letra cursiva, el cerebro está obligado a controlar los movimientos de la mano y de los dedos mientras que sigues visualmente los matices y los cambios de posiciones del lápiz. Esto podría explicar el aumento de la actividad neural. Esta coordinación y seguimiento también se cree que ayuda en la motricidad fina y la planificación motora, que es particularmente útil para los estudiantes con ciertas discapacidades de aprendizaje, como la dislexia. Virginia Berninger, psicóloga de la Universidad de Washington, estudió a los niños del segundo al quinto grado. Ella encontró que los patrones únicos del cerebro se activan por los procesos de impresión, escritura de letra cursiva y mecanografía. También determinó que cuando los niños formaban el texto a mano, producían más

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All Saints Episcopal Day School Central 512-472-8866 allsaintseds.org AuPair Foundation aupairfoundation.org/host-familypromotion Country Home Learning South, North 512-288-8220, 512-331-1441 countryhomelearningcenter.com

Extend-A-Care 77 Elementary Schools in Austin ISD, Hays ISD, Del Valle ISD, Charter Schools 512-472-9402 Kiddie Academy Pflugerville, Cedar Park 512-270-9988, 512-920-3028 kiddieacademy.com/austin Rainbow Station North 512-260-9700 rainbowstationaustin.org

Seeking Sitters Austin metro-area 512-474-1171 seekingsitters.com Stepping Stone Schools 19 campuses, Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Kyle, Buda, Georgetown, College Station 512-459-0258 steppingstoneschool.com Wanna Play Round Rock 512-341-7529 wannaplayplaycare.com

Armstrong Community Music School Westlake and Travis Heights 512-474-2331 acmsaustin.org

Childbloom Guitar Program Central Austin, Round Rock, Northwest 512-452-8765 austin.childbloom.com

Puerto Rican Folkloric Dance South Austin 512-251-8122 prfdance.org

Austin Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choir Central Austin 512-453-0884 girlschoir.com

Dance Discovery Allendale, Avery Ranch 512-419-7611, 512-658-2996 dancediscovery.com

Synergy Dance Studio Westlake 512-327-4130 synergydancestudio.com

Bethany Fine Arts Academy Northwest Austin 512-258-6017 bethany-umc.org/finearts

Heartsong Music North Austin 512-371-9506 heartsongmusic.net

TexArts Lakeway 512-852-9079 x104 tex-arts.org

CafĂŠ Monet South, Central, San Marcos 512-892-3200, 512-906-2200, 512-805-2800 cafemonet.org

KidsActing 16 locations North (3), South, Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Oak Hill, West, Central 512-836-5437 kidsactingstudio.com

Zach Performing Arts Central Austin 512-476-0594 x236 zachtheatre.org

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Bits, Bytes and Bots 40 area elementary locations in Austin, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Dripping Springs 512-415-4120 bitsbytesbots.com Creative Bricks for Kids Round Rock 512-388-9003 creativebrickbuilders.com

Grade Power Learning South Austin and Round Rock 512-892-7323, 512-265-2448 gradepowerlearning.com/locations/ texas/austin-south gradepowerlearning.com/locations/ texas/round-rock KLRU Kids Club Central Austin klrukids.org

The Thinkery Central Austin 512-474-2499

Elgin Christmas Tree Farm Elgin 512-281-5016 elginchristmastreefarm.com

Brain Balance Westlake 512-328-7771 brainbalancecenters.com/locations/ austin/

Positive Behavior Supports 855-832-6727 Ext. 3004 teampbs.com

Mad Science Various locations 512-892-1143 austin.madscience.org Nets Educenter Cedar Park 512-996-9260 educenter4me.com

Drive A Senior Elgin, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Austin See ad for phone listings driveasenior.org

Extra Credit Northwest 512-689-0236 extracreditaustin.com

Sylvan Learning Centers North/Cedar Park, South Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, West Austin, Hays Co. 512-336-1818, 512-441-3898, 512-310-7890, 512-869-7323, 512-323-6448, 512-262-7035 sylvanlearningcenter.com

ATA Martial Arts Northwest, Cedar Park 512-796-0953, 512-786-2837 barrettsATA.com

Jump! Gymnastics North, South 512-593-6226 jump-austin.com

Sugar and Spice Ranch Bandera 830-460-8487 texashorsecamps.com

Chaparral Ice Center North Austin 512-252-8500 chaparralice.com

Master Yang Tae Kwon Do Round Rock 512-564-9999 austinblackbelts.com

YMCA-Austin Locations throughout Austin 512-730-9622 austinymca.org

Esoteric Equestrian Northeast Austin 512-272-4301 austinhorse.com

Nitro Swimming Cedar Park, Bee Cave 512-259-7999 nitroswim.com

Ghoring Tai Chi & Kung Fu Central Austin 512-879-7553 mastergohring.com

Playland Skate Northwest Austin 512-452-1901 playlandskatecenter.com

YMCA-Williamson County Round Rock, Leander, Hutto, Pflugerville, Granger Liberty Hill and Cedar Park 512-615-5563 ymcagwc.org

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Round Rock Serving Center Round Rock 512-244-2431 rrasc.org

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not alone:

by Sherida Mock

Serving the Emotional Side for NICU Parents

Tell us about your NICU experience.

My son Jackson was born at 24 weeks. He was a pound and a half. He had a 4-month NICU stay. My daughter Lauren was born at 34 weeks. She had a blood disorder, and so she also had a NICU stay. The March of Dimes has done a phenomenal job of raising awareness about prematurity. I reached out to them, and we became an ambassador family.

How did that turn into founding Hand to Hold?

Through the March of Dimes, I began to meet other families saying similar things about anxiety and depression. While our babies got phenomenal care in the NICU, no one was addressing our emotional needs. The NICU experience is traumatic. You’re seeing your baby fight to survive. All your efforts and energy are focused on that baby. You’re not really processing the emotional impact. We know now that moms who experience traumatic birth or premature birth are at a higher risk for having post-partum depression, acute anxiety and post-traumatic stress. It’s an isolating experience traditionally navigated alone. We want to give you a hand to hold, to prepare you for what you might expect and provide support and reassurance. We also want to support those who do not have the perfect ending, those who lose a baby.

What does Hand to Hold offer?

The foundation of Hand to Hold is a peer-to-peer support network. What differentiates our program is that we try to match you with a mentor with a similar birth experience. The support is much more effective when you can relate to what that family’s going through.

In the summer of 2000, Kelli Kelley was 24 weeks pregnant when she went into labor driving home from work. That unexpected premature birth of her son launched Kelley on a journey that led her to found Hand to Hold, a nonprofit that provides support for families with babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Hand to Hold celebrates its 5th anniversary this month.

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into situations that are not optimal to ensure their best outcomes. Our families are at a higher risk for separation, divorce and child neglect. These babies are also harder to take care of. Often, they are medically fragile. L-R: Lauren, Michael, Kelli and Jackson Kelley They’re on many differOur social workers are also NICU ent medications. Many can’t go into a daycare setting, so one of the parents graduate parents. They’re following up has to leave their job and stay home. with not only the parent who’s receiving support, but also the volunteer to make sure it’s an effective match. It’s a financial strain. Many medical interventions are not covered by We do ongoing education online insurance. Some of the shots and on everything from the impact on preventative things that our children take are astronomically expensive. marriage and siblings to preparing for kindergarten. We have activity books Our families are struggling to afford that we give hospitals for siblings. We occupational, speech and physical also have a video tour of the NICU, therapy. narrated by a NICU graduate. We have a huge online community. Our parent blog, Preemie Babies 101, has 30-something thousand followers a month. Life After NICU is our online forum. We have more than 19,000 parents who participate. Hospitals are using our resources and materials. They’re asking us to act as consultants to them on their family centered care models. Here in Austin, we work in the NICU in partnership with St. David’s Hospital. We’re at the bedside, helping families get the resources they need. We’re talking to them about things that other medical staff may not have time to talk to them about: What’s going on at home? Do they have to go back to work? Are there older siblings? There are so many challenges on families. It’s emotionally, physically and financially exhausting.

Do those challenges affect the baby?

We’re spending billions of dollars to save these babies, but we’re sending them

What message do you have for medical staff?

Understand the impact on the baby— physically, developmentally—if we don’t provide support systems for that family. Understand their power to dramatically change these outcomes, not just by treating the baby in the NICU with the best, most advanced neonatal care. What’s lacking, but what I see huge steps toward, is not just lip service to family centered care. It goes beyond just putting some brochures out. It has to go much deeper, to truly educate the medical staff about what these families are going through and arm them with the resources they need.

What message do you have for parents?

Understand their risk for depression and anxiety. I didn’t want to visit my baby at first. I did not feel bonded with him. I felt a lot of shame over that. Later, I learned that’s very normal, that you resist bonding because you’re afraid you’re going to lose them.

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Understand that they’re not alone. There are so many HIPAA regulations; you’re not supposed to even look at another parent in the NICU. A peer mentor can give them hope and inspiration.

How are your children doing now?

We definitely have a happy ending. My daughter is 12. She plays club volleyball and does well in school. She’s starting to babysit, and she’s very artistic. We’re really proud of her. My son is 15 and just signed up for driver’s education. He plays sports, and he’s done very well in school. There have been challenges. He’s had a lot of occupational, physical and speech therapy. He still sees a lot of doctors, but he’s surpassed all of our expectations. We’ve been blessed. af

get help

Hand to Hold can help you if you are: b Starting a high-risk pregnancy b On bed rest b Mourning the loss of a baby b In the NICU b Leaving the NICU b Experiencing complications b Receiving a new diagnosis b Considering a new surgery or interven tion for your child b Facing re-hospitalization b Having questions about your child’s development b Wanting to know how to support siblings

Handtohold.org September 2015 l austinfamily.com

BY SARA RIDER

Options for Care Many doctors’ offices have extended hours for emergencies or sudden illness. But there are real differences among the other facilities, differences in type of care, how quickly the care is delivered and how much your bill will be.

EMERGENCY

For example, Vik Medical facilities provide both urgent care and walk-in primary care. Dr. Michael Vik says there are some situations best handled by urgent care and others that require an ER.

411

“For a hurt wrist, go to an urgent care center. If you have a sore throat and cough, but not a lot of other medical problems, go to urgent care. But if somebody has a bad cough, they’re short of breath, and there’s chest pain— that’s something for an ER,” says Dr. Vik.

THE SCOOP ON HOW TO CHOOSE AMONG ERsS, URGENT CARE AND WALK-IN CLINICS

Dr. Okem Okpara, medical director for Austin Emergency Center, an FSER, agrees that patients should base their choice of facility on how serious the problem is. “If you have an emergency situation and it’s 2 a.m., your options are either an FSER or a hospital ER,” says Dr. Okpara. “And there are certain cases where it’s best to call 911.”

Differences in Care and Amenities

Has someone in your family gotten sick on a Friday afternoon, after the doctor’s office has closed? Or maybe you just don’t want to wait to be “worked in” during regular office hours. Do you go to a walk-in clinic, an urgent care facility, the nearest hospital ER or one of the growing number of freestanding emergency rooms (FSERs)? They’re all about the same, aren’t they? Well, no.

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But what is different at the various facilities? If you go to an urgent care, they’ll offer x-ray services on site and usually a lab. Other services vary—some will offer drug testing, occupational medicine or CT scans. The number of amenities will also vary. At an urgent care, you’ll usually be treated by a family practitioner, a nurse practitioner or a physician’s assistant. “Urgent care allows people flexibility,” says Dr. Vik. “Urgent care is like, we want it and we want it today.” FSERs, which started in Texas following legislation passed in 2009, offer different services and hours and are staffed differently. “Every FSER has a lab and a pharmacy. We’re open 24/7,” says Dr. Okpara. “We also have a pharmacy with IV fluids and antibiotics.” Dr. Okpara says that convenience is one of the biggest selling points for the FSER. “Part of the reason FSERs are doing so well is that people want fast attention.” “There is typically no wait because we don’t receive ambulance traffic,” says Dr. Okpara. “The other selling point is that it’s nice—it’s a setting that tries to make you comfortable.” At the far end of the spectrum is the hospital ER. There, you’ll be treated by an emergency room physician with all of the medical equipment, staff and expertise to deal with complicated emergencies. View the magazine online at austinfamily.com

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But it all comes at a price—and not just the bill. Since the ER is based around a triage system, if you’re at an ER for a sore throat, you can usually expect a long wait as they care for people who are far sicker.

The Cost of Convenience What you might not realize is that there is a cost difference when you choose an urgent care clinic or an FSER. “Most people have copays,” says Dr. Vik. “Your regular doctor has the lowest copay, urgent care has an intermediate copay and the ER has the highest one. It’s a buyer beware market out there. People have to realize that they’re paying for convenience.” Other things may also affect your bill. “There’s a set deductible to meet before your insurance kicks in,” says Dr. Okpara. “If you haven’t met your deductible, the expenses are your responsibility.” Whatever type of emergency facility you choose, ask a few questions first. “Ask, ‘do you take my insurance?’ says Vik. “If they don’t, then ask, ‘what might my bill be?’ That’s a reasonable question to ask.” Also ask if the facility is in-network or out-of-network, as it impacts how much you’ll be charged for your visit. “If patients understand what is a true emergency, they can make the right choice and have the right expectation of the care they are going to get,” says Dr. Okpara. af Sara Rider is a native Austinite who has worked with physicians and hospitals throughout Texas. She frequently writes freelance articles on health topics for newspapers and magazines.

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BY RICHARD SINGLETON

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September 2015 C OMP I LED BY BETTY KEMP ER

++ Denotes event occurs on multiple dates

Family Events

Family Events page 32 Parenting Events page 38 Storytimes page 40

Tuesday 1 FRANK REAUGH: LANDSCAPES OF TEXAS AND THE AMERICAN WEST ++ 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St. FREE. hrc.utexas.edu.

Wednesday 2 WORK LAB AT THE BLANTON ++ 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Blanton Museum, 200 E. MLK Blvd. FREE with admission. blantonmuseum.org or 512‑471‑5482. HIGH NOON TALKS 12 to 1 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. thestoryoftexas.com or 512‑936‑8746. YOGA IN THE PARK ++ 12 to 1 p.m. Republic Square Park, 422 Guadalupe St. FREE. austinparks.org or 512‑477‑1566. DEEPER DIVES ++ 1 to 2:30 p.m. Blanton Museum, 200 E. MLK Blvd. FREE with admission. blantonmuseum. org or 512‑471‑5482. ARTS AND CRAFTS 6 to 7 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512‑989‑3188. NIGHT CRAFTERS 6 to 8:30 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch, 5500 Manchaca Road. FREE. library. austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑8700. WEDNESDAY NIGHT CONTRA DANCING ++ 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Hancock Recreation Center, 811 E. 41st St. FREE. austinbarndancers.org or 512‑453‑4225. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

UPCYCLE THIS! ++ 6 to 8 p.m. Recycled Reads Bookstore, 5335 Burnet Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑7460. FARM STREET OPRY 7 p.m. Convention Center, Bastrop. $5; FREE for kids under 10. UNPLUGGED AT THE GROVE ++ 8 p.m. Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. kgsr.com or 512‑474‑9991. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

Saturday 5 MADRONE CANYON HIKE 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045. BIG MEGA WORKOUT: AGES 12+ 9 to 10 a.m. Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Dr. FREE. thelongcenter.org or 512‑457‑5115. LEGO KIDSFEST Session I: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Session II: 3 to 7:30 p.m. Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. $19.50 child (3-17). Legokidsfest.com.

Friday 4 RADIO CONTROL AIRCRAFT SHOW All day. Austin Radio Control Association, 8705 Lindell Ln. FREE. austinrc.org. FIRST FRIDAY AT WILLIAMSON MUSEUM 12 to 8 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670. LEGO KIDSFEST 4 to 8:30 p.m. Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. $19.50 child (3-17). MUSIC IN THE PARK ++ 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Pfluger Park, 515 City Park Rd., Pflugerville. FREE. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com. ROUND ROCK EXPRESS VS IOWA ++ 7 p.m. Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. $12 and up. roundrockexpress.com or 512‑255‑2255. CONTINUING: Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2.

Thursday 3 FIRST THURSDAY: CONGRESS AVE. All day. South Congress Ave. FREE. firstthursday.info.

calendar

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Lego KidsFest, September 4-6 NATURE PLAY HOUR ++ 10 to 11 a.m. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. $10 Adults. WESTCAVE PRESERVE PUBLIC TOUR ++ 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Westcave Preserve, 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd., Round Mountain. $10 adult.

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

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WHAT’S THE STORY STEVE? ++ 10 to 11 a.m. ColdTowne Theater, 4803 Airport Blvd. Pay what you wish. moveyourtale.com.

Monday 7 Labor Day

FREE DAY OF YOGA All day. Participating studios. FREE. freedayofyoga.com.

GIANT CHESS ++ 12:30 to 3 p.m. Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe. FREE. giantchess.org.

CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Round Rock Express vs Iowa see Friday 4.

LOCAL AND LIVE AT THE VISITOR CENTER ++ 1 to 3 p.m. Austin Visitor Center, 602 E. Fourth St. FREE. austintexas.org. REPTILE SHOW 2:30 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. FREE. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com. FAMILY MOVIE-BOLT 5 p.m. Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑9840. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Round Rock Express vs Iowa see Friday 4.

Sunday 6 LEGO KIDSFEST Session I: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Session II: 3 to 7:30 p.m. Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. $19.50 child (3-17). Legokidsfest.com.

Splash Jam, September 6 Tuesday 8 FAMILY FUN DAY 12 to 4 p.m. Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, 605 Robert E. Lee Rd. FREE. umlaufsculpture.org or 512‑445‑5582. FREE FIRST SUNDAYS 12 to 3 p.m. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress Ave. FREE. thestoryoftexas.com or 512‑936‑8746. SPLASH JAM 5 to 9 p.m. Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov or 512‑401‑5528. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Round Rock Express vs Iowa see Friday 4; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5.

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LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: WILD AND WACKY WEATHER 11 a.m. Pleasant Hill Branch, 211 E. William Cannon Dr. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑3940. FAMILY ACTIVITY NIGHT: PUZZLES AND GAMES 6:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045. FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT - NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 6:30 p.m. Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑9980. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

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Wednesday 9

Thursday 10

EVERYTHING ART 5 p.m. Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove Blvd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑7500.

PRIZE EXHIBITION OPENING RECEPTION 6 to 8 p.m. Umlauf Sculpture Garden, 605 Robert E. Lee Rd. FREE. umlaufsculpture.org or 512‑445‑5582.

BRIGHT LEAF HIKES 9 to 11:30 a.m. Bright Leaf Preserve, Creek Mountain Rd. FREE. brightleaf.org or 512‑459‑7269.

CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Unplugged at the Grove see Thursday 3.

GAULT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE TOURS 9 a.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. $10. williamsonmuseum. org or 512‑943‑1670.

Friday 11

KITE DAY 9 a.m. Taylor Regional Park, Taylor. FREE. taylortx.gov or 512‑365‑7669.

ARTS AND CRAFTS ++ 6 to 7 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512‑989‑3188. CONTINUING: Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 2; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2; Yoga in the Park see Wednesday 2.

Patriot Day

MOVIES IN THE PARK ++ 8 p.m. Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park. FREE. cedarparktexas.gov. CONTINUING: Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2.

Saturday 12

Unplugged at the Grove, Thursdays

SATURDAY AT THE MOVIES - DAWN OF THE PLANET OF THE APES 2 p.m. University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln. FREE. library.austintexas.org or 512‑974‑9940.

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MARKET DAYS ON THE SQUARE 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown Square, Georgetown. FREE. thegeorgetownsquare. com. HANDS ON HISTORY 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. williamsonmuseum.org or 512‑943‑1670. PINE STREET MARKET DAYS 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Downtown Bastrop. FREE. visitbastroptx.com. WHAT’S THE STORY STEVE? PRESENTS: CLASSIC STEVE 10 to 11 a.m. ColdTowne Theater, 4803 Airport B.vd. Pay what you wish. moveyourtale.com.

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SECOND SATURDAYS ARE FOR FAMILIES 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th. $10 per family or $5 for members. thecontemporaryaustin.org or 512‑458‑8191. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Giant Chess see Saturday 5; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 5; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5; What’s the Story Steve? see Saturday 5.

Sunday 13

Grandparents Day LAKE TRAVIS UNDERWATER CLEANUP 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Oasis, Lake Travis. FREE. keepaustinbeautiful.org. SOUTH WEST AUSTIN ARTS AND CRAFTS 2 to 4 p.m. Indigo Center, 4314 Clarno Dr. FREE. meetup.com/South-Austin-Playdateclub/ or 512‑772‑3433. SUNDAY FUNDAY WITH STACI GRAY 3 to 4:30 p.m. Baby Earth, 106 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock. FREE. babyearth.com/grow. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5.

Lake Travis Underwater Cleanup, September 13 Monday 14

Tuesday 15

CRAFTERNOON 3:30 p.m. Manchaca Road Branch, 550 Manchaca Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑8700.

CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

CHESS CLUB ++ 6 to 7 p.m. Cepeda Branch, 651 N. Pleasant Valley Rd. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑7372.

Wednesday 16

CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

TODDLER ENRICHMENT MEETING 10 a.m. Brentwood Park, 6710 Arroyo Seco. FREE. texaslll.org.

Stepfamily Day, Constitution Day

LEARN. GROW. THRIVE. REGISTER TODAY FOR Y AFTERSCHOOL

Fun, safe, and convenient locations throughout Williamson County — Y Afterschool runs weekdays from school dismissal until 6:30pm for children in Kindergarten thru 5th Grade. Round Rock • Leander • Hutto Liberty Hill • Georgetown Financial Assistance Available

Log on to YMCAGWC.org or call 512.615.5563 for more information and registration details. YMCA OF GREATER WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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Thursday 17 ART TIME FOR THE LITTLES 11 a.m. Terrazas Branch, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑3625. BLANTON’S THIRD THURSDAY 12 to 9 p.m. Blanton Museum, 200 E. MLK Blvd. FREE. blantonmuseum.org or 512‑471‑5482. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Unplugged at the Grove see Thursday 3.

Austin Museum Day, September 20 CONTINUING: Arts and Crafts see Wednesday 9; Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 2; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2; Yoga in the Park see Wednesday 2.

Friday 18 CONTINUING: Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Music in the Park see Friday 4; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2.

Saturday 19 REMOTE CONTROL FLYING CLUB OPEN HOUSE 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Searight Municipal Park, 907 W. Slaughter Ln. FREE. hillcountryrc.org.

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STRUT YOUR MUTT 5K/WALK BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mueller Lake Park, 4550 Mueller Blvd. $0-$45. strutyourmutt.org or 435‑644‑2001. SATURDAY AFTERNOON MOVIES TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES 2 p.m. University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑9940. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Giant Chess see Saturday 5; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 5; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5; What’s the Story Steve? see Saturday 5; Local and Live at Austin Visitor Center see Saturday 5.

Sunday 20 AUSTIN MUSEUM DAY 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participating museums citywide. FREE. austinmuseums.org. FRENCH LEGATION 175TH BIRTHDAY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. FREE. frenchlegationmuseum.org or 512‑472‑8180.

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FAMILY YOGA IN THE PARK 11 a.m. Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe St. FREE. austinparks.org or 512‑477‑1566. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5.

Monday 21

International Day of Peace LITERATURE LIVE! PRESENTS: WILD AND WACKY WEATHER 3:30 p.m. Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd. FREE. library. austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑3800. CONTINUING: Chess Club see Monday 14; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

Tuesday 22 PAJAMA STORYTIME 6:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave. FREE. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

Wednesday 23

CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

LITERATURE LIVE! WILD AND WACKY WEATHER! 10:30 a.m. Terrazas Branch, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑3625.

Friday 25

First Day of Autumn

ARTS AND CRAFTS 6 to 7 p.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org or 512‑989‑3188. CULTURE NIGHTS 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. AGE Cafeteria, 3710 Cedar St. FREE. austinpowwow.net. CONTINUING: Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 2; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2; Yoga in the Park see Wednesday 2.

Thursday 24 FAMILY CRAFT NIGHT 7 p.m. Hampton Branch at Oak Hill, 5125 Convict Hill Rd. FREE. library.austintexas. gov or 512‑974‑9900.

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SUDDENLINK BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL ++ 6 to 10:30 p.m. Robin Bledsoe Park, 601 S. Bagdad, Leander. FREE. leandertx.gov. TERRA TOYS 35TH BIRTHDAY PARTY 12:00 to 6 p.m. 2438 W. Anderson Ln., Free terratoys.com CONTINUING: Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Movies in the Park see Friday 11; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2.

Saturday 26

Native American Day NATIONAL HUNTING AND FISHING DAY 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Old Settlers Park, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock. FREE. roundrocktexas.gov or 512‑292‑1113. AUSTIN ZOO DAY WITH SHARP PROPANE 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Tr. austinzoo.org or 512‑579‑8284.

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GEORGETOWN HEALTH AND WELLNESS EXPO 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Georgetown Rec Center, 1003 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown. FREE. georgetownchamber.org or 512‑930‑3535.

Sunday 27

Gold Star Mother’s Day

PECAN STREET FESTIVAL ++ 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sixth St. FREE. pecanstreetfestival.org.

LIBRARY MOVIE MATINEE: CINDERELLA 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St. FREE. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus. com

YOGA IN THE PARK 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Stacy Park, 1400 Alameda Dr. FREE. austinparks.org or 512‑477‑1566.

AUSTIN SYMPHONIC BAND FALL CONCERT 7:30 to 9 p.m. Zilker Hillside Theatre, 2100 Barton Springs Rd. FREE. austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑4002.

TERRA TOYS 35TH BIRTHDAY PARTY 12 to 6 p.m. 2438 W. Anderson Ln., Free terratoys.com

CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Saturday 19; Mediterranean Festival see Saturday 26; Pecan Street Festival see Saturday 26; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5.

FRIDAY NIGHT MOVIE - NON-STOP 2 p.m. University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑9940. MEDITERRANEAN FESTIVAL ++ 6 to 11 p.m. St. Elias Orthodox Church, 408 E. 11th St. Donation $5. mediterraneanfestival.org or 512‑476‑2314. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Giant Chess see Saturday 5; Nature Play Hour see Saturday 5; Suddenlink Bluegrass Festival see Friday 25; Westcave Preserve Public Tour see Saturday 5; What’s the Story Steve? see Saturday 5.

Monday 28 NIGHT CRAFTERS 6 to 7:30 p.m. Faulk Central Library, 800 Guadalupe St. FREE. library.austintexas.gov or 512‑974‑7400. CONTINUING: Chess Club see Monday 14; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

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Tuesday 29 CHILDHOOD OBESITY PROGRAM ++ 6 to 8 p.m. YMCA of Austin, 3208 Red River St. FREE. austinymca.org or 512‑236‑9622. CONTINUING: Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1.

Wednesday 30 CONTINUING: Arts and Crafts see Wednesday 9; Deeper Dives see Wednesday 2; Frank Reaugh: Landscapes of Texas and the American West see Tuesday 1; Free Childhood Obesity Intervention Program see Tuesday 29; Wednesday Night Contra Dancing see Wednesday 2; Work Lab at the Blanton see Wednesday 2; Yoga in the Park see Wednesday 2.

Parenting Events ANY BABY CAN OFFERS PARENTING CLASSES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH ON MONDAYS, TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS. 6207 SHERIDAN AVE. FREE. ANYBABYCAN. ORG OR 512-454-3743.

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Tuesday 1

Wednesday 9

LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 10 a.m. Christ’s Workshop, 212 E. Monroe. FREE. texaslll.org.

LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 10:15 a.m. Will Hampton Branch Library, 5125 Convict Hill Rd. FREE. texaslll.org.

LITTLE TEXAS HOMESCHOOLERS 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. FREE. wblibrary.org.

Wednesday 2 LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 10 a.m. Austin Library North Village Branch, 2505 Steck Ave. FREE. texaslll.org.

Thursday 10 CONTINUING: Postpartum Support Group see Thursday 3.

GO TO WWW.AUSTINFAMILY.COM FOR WEEKLY PRIZES

Thursday 17 CONTINUING: Postpartum Support Group see Thursday 3.

Thursday 3 POSTPARTUM SUPPORT GROUP ++ 10 to 11:30 a.m. Any Baby Can, 6207 Sheridan Ave. FREE. anybabycan.org. LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING 7 p.m. North Austin Medical Center, Room 2B, 12221 N. Mopac Expy. FREE. texaslll.org.

Monday 7 SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT GROUP 11 a.m. Plaza Level Park, 111 Congress Ave. FREE. Internationalautismministry.com.

Thursday 24 CONTINUING: Postpartum Support Group see Thursday 3.

Tuesday 29 LEARNING STRATEGIES FOR CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3003 Northland Dr. $15 includes lunch. Dsact.org.

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Storytimes PUBLIC LIBRARY STORYTIME EVENTS LISTED HERE ARE FREE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CONTACT BEFORE ATTENDING. AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY STORYTIMES ARE TOO NUMEROUS FOR OUR CALENDAR, BUT INCLUDE STORYTIMES FOR ALL AGES. THERE ARE ALSO DUAL LANGUAGE AND SPANISH STORYTIMES. VISIT THE AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION. LIBRARY.AUSTINTEXAS.GOV OR 512-974-7400.

BABY TIME 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com.

BILINGUAL STORYTIME 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com.

BABY BOOKWORMS STORYTIME 11:15 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512‑989‑3188.

CHILDREN’S STORYTIME 10 a.m. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. frenchlegationmuseum.org.

ALL AGES STORYTIME 12:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com or 512‑327‑3045.

BILINGUAL STORYTIME 10:30 to 11 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov/library.

PAWS AND READ 6 to 7 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com. EVENING STORYTIME 6:30 p.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

MONDAYS

(Libraries closed Sep. 7) SIGNING STORYTIME WITH MS. AMY 10 to 10:30 a.m. Kaleidoscope Toys, 110 N. IH 35, Round Rock. kdstoys.com. BABY TIME 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com.

TUESDAYS BABY AND ME STORYTIME 9:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 402 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org. BABY AND ME STORYTIME 9:30 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov.

BABY BOOKWORMS STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org or 512‑989‑3188.

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TERRIFIC 2S AND 3S STORYTIME (SEP. 8 ONLY) 10:30 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov. STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Barnes and Noble, 12701 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave. barnesandnoble. com or 512‑263‑7402. TODDLER STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Lakeway. laketravislibrary.org. READING DOG PROGRAM 11 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com. STORYTIME 11 a.m. Barnes and Noble, 2701 Parker Rd., Round Rock. barnesandnoble.com or 512‑600‑0088.

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STORYTIME AND CRAFT 6 p.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org.

TOT TIME STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com.

WEDNESDAYS

TODDLERTIME 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

WOBBLES STORYTIME 9:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 420 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

BABYTIME 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

STORYTIME 11 a.m. Barnes and Noble, 14010 Hwy. 183. barnesandnoble.com.

TODDLERTIME 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov.

THURSDAYS

PRE-K STORYTIME 10 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leandertx.gov. BABY STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Lake Travis Library, 2300 Lohman’s Spur, Lakeway. laketravislibrary.org. STORYTIME TOURS AT THE BLANTON 10:30 to 11 a.m. Blanton Museum, 200 E. MLK Blvd. blantonmuseum.org or 512‑471‑5482.

BABYTIME 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. STORYTIME AT THE MUSEUM 10 a.m. French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. frenchlegationmuseum. org or 512‑472‑8180.

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STORYTIME 10 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com. HOLA, HOLA! SPANISH STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com. TODDLERTIME 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. INFANT STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com. STORY PALS STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 420 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org. STORYTIME 11 a.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3.civicplus.com. KIDS CLUB 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3. civicplus.com.

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FRIDAYS BABYTIME 9:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. BABY AND ME 10 a.m. Leander Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander. leander.lib.tx.us. STORYTIME 10 a.m. Briarcliff Community Center, 22801 Briarcliff Dr., Briarcliff. laketravislibrary.org. CHILDREN’S STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Georgetown Library, 420 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org. TODDLERTIME 10:30 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. TODDLER STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 11:15 a.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org. ALL AGES STORYTIME 12:30 p.m. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Rd. westbanklibrary.com.

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STORYTIME 7 p.m. Barnes and Noble, 2701 Parker Rd., Round Rock. barnesandnoble.com or 512‑600‑0088.

SATURDAYS BABY BLOOMERS 9 a.m. The Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave. Free with admission. thinkeryaustin.org. FAMILY STORYTIME 11 a.m. Round Rock Library, 216 E. Main St., Round Rock. roundrocktexas.gov. ALL AGES STORYTIME 11 a.m. Wells Branch Community Library, 15001 Wells Port Dr. wblibrary.org. SATURDAY STORYTIME 11 a.m. Barnes and Noble, 5601 Brodie Ln. barnesandnoble.com or 512‑892‑3493. R.E.A.D. DOGS 12 to 2 p.m. Georgetown Library, 420 W. 8th St., Georgetown. library.georgetown.org. PAWS AND READ 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Pflugerville Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville. tx-pflugerville3. civicplus.com. af

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focus on advertisement

doctors

Dr. Julio De la Fuente

Smileworks Orthodontics Dr. De la Fuente received his bachelor’s degree in biology from UTSA as part of the 3+4 program (3 years of college plus 4 years of dental school). He completed this exclusive and challenging program at the top of his class. Dr. De la Fuente is also a graduate of the orthodontic residency program at UTHSCSA. See ad on page 11

Dr. Linda Lopez

ADC Circle C Dr. Lopez is from the Rio Grande Valley. She received her medical degree from University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston. She completed her internship and residency at University of Texas Southwestern in Austin. Dr. Lopez speaks conversational Spanish and enjoys preventative, developmental and general pediatrics. See ad on page 31

Dr. Rachel Montgomery

Lonestar Pediatric Dental Dr. Montgomery graduated from Baylor University in Waco, and followed up by attending the University of Texas Dental School in Houston. Her residency was spent at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, with a specialty in pediatrics. Rachel can most likely be found spending time with her husband Marty and their precious boys. See ad on page 29

Dr. Marty Montgomery

Lonestar Pediatric Dental Dr. Marty Montgomery comes from a family where all the children were drawn to dental careers early in life. A graduate of Baylor University in Waco, Marty attended Tufts Dental School in Boston. He completed his residency at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, specializing in pediatrics. See ad on page 29

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 42

Dr. Theresa Willis

ADC Steiner Ranch Dr. Willis is a graduate of the University of Texas, received her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed her residency at Texas Children’s Hospital. Dr. Willis’ professional interests include developmental pediatrics, fitness and healthy weight in children and teens. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. See ad on page 31

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PIENSA POSITIVO Expectativas de Vida

Preguntate: ¿con que nivel de entusiasmo vivo todos los días? ¿Es alto, mediano o de plano un nivel bajo? El nivel de tu entusiasmo determina tus expectativas. Si la respuesta fue que te encuentras en un nivel bajo, tómate unos minutos y encuentra el origen. Pregúntate, mi nivel de entusiasmo es causado por situaciones externas, o es generado por mí? Es importante que reconozcas que el único responsable del nivel de tu entusiasmo eres tú. Ahora, cómo ser más entusiasta y hacer a un lado el pesimismo? Recuerda estos dos puntos: Uno, enfócate en lo bueno que obtendrás al hacer lo que tengas que hacer. Dos, haz un movimiento físico en el momento que te ataquen los pensamientos negativos. Por ejemplo, brinca. Quizás te parezca algo tonto pero lo increíble es que funciona. La única manera de comprobarlo es poniéndolo en práctica. Piensa Positivo.

Expectations in Life

Ask yourself this question: what is the level of my enthusiasm? Is it high, medium or low? The level of your enthusiasm determines your expectations in life. If the answer was low, take a few minutes to find out the cause. Ask yourself: is my enthusiasm affected by external situations, or is it created by me? It is important to recognize that the only one responsible for your level of enthusiasm is you. Now, how do you become more enthusiastic and overcome pessimism? Remember these two points: One, focus on the positive results that you will obtain if you do what you have to do. Two, make a physical movement right at the moment that the negative thought attacks you. For example, jump. It may sound a little silly, but it really works! The only way to prove it is by putting it in practice. and you will see. Think Positive.

by Leslie Montoya, host of Despierta Austin

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KID ONE Homemade Watercolors This project is a great mix of science and art that engages children in several S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) principles at once. Children not only get to participate in the science of making the watercolors, but also enjoy the artistic expression of using them after they are dry. You can extend the science by dabbing your paintbrush into vinegar before dabbing it onto the watercolor cubes to paint. When the baking soda watercolors mix with the vinegar, our homemade paint solution will begin to fizz! This makes for a memorable, hands-on learning experience.

Materials:

• • • •

Baking soda Food Coloring

Water Ice cube tray (or something similar)

Directions: 1. Fill each slot of the ice cube tray 3/4 of the way with

2. 3. 4.

baking soda. Add a few drops of food coloring to each slot. Slowly add water and gently mix each slot. As you add water, the baking soda will dissolve. Add a bit more baking soda to each slot until you have a really thick consistency with minimal residual water. From here you can leave the watercolor cakes to dry, or you can pop the tray in the freezer for faster results. Drying out of the freezer may take up to two days, but in the freezer the watercolor cakes will be set in 3-4 hours. To use the watercolor cubes, dip the paintbrush in water or vinegar and soften each watercolor block. Enjoy! af

This is one experiment from the classrooms of The Brainery, the afterschool program at Stepping Stone School. Limited placements are available for fall enrollment. For more information, visit steppingstoneschool.com/school-age. Pick us up at HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market

September 2015 l austinfamily.com

just for by Carrie Taylor

grins

Hot and Sweaty:

Breastfeeding in Public I was at a doctor’s appointment

Whoever told me that breastfeeding in public was simple should go hide in the sand for the rest of eternity. Those mothers must have safely tranquilized their young, and if that is the case, and if you are reading this, please refer me to a vendor.

So to all of the kind Texans who passed by me and got to know a stranger in ways you never wanted, I apologize. But I do want to thank you for not making me feel uncomfortable, and thank you for not staring.

Try telling a puppy—better, a Labrador retriever puppy—to lay still on its bed, and then drop a sheet on top of it and see what it does. Breastfeeding with a cover is like that, except there is a baby under that sheet that you shouldn’t can’t put in a crate.

At least, thank you for not staring too much. And I’m not talking to you, man in the bright yellow shirt who laughed when a stray stream of breast milk shot from under the cover. Yes, they can do that, and no, I do not enjoy being a human Super Soaker.

There is a lot of thrashing. Arms and legs get tangled. (And sometimes the baby’s do, too.) I would always focus all my efforts into shielding the side of my body the baby was feeding from, only to realize too late that my other half felt unusually breezy.

At the end of the day, a mom’s gotta do what a mom’s gotta do. af Carrie Taylor is a native Texan and mother of one.

and had to do it. You know, IT.

Sweat beaded my forehead like a sheet

Flash my scandalous lady parts in

of braille. My breathing was shallow, my

public for the nourishment of my

pulse accelerating, and that’s when it hit

2-month-old son.

me. Like, really hard—and it hurt.

September 2015 l austinfamily.com

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