North Texas Your Family Guide to Raising Happy, Healthy Kids
Karissa Smith, 7 years old
In this issue: Birthday Party Mania / Summer Camps / Staycation Ideas / Spotlight on Flower Mound / Dig Nature with your Child! / March Calendar of Events March 2009 FREE www.northtexaskids.com 1 North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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Inside Grapevine Mills Mall Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 12pm to 5pm FREE Family Expo benefiting the programs of
Live Entertainment s Face Painting Games s Arts & Crafts s Door prizes Goodie Bags Premier Event for the Mom’s Voice Awards! Vote for your favorite businesses in Denton and Tarrant counties today at www.MomsOutLoud.com Winners will be announced at the North Texas Kids Family Expo.
Mom
Mom
sOutLoud.com
’ s Vo i c e ! A w a rd
s
7FOEPST 8BOUFE Sign up online today Want more details? Visit www.northtexaskids.com/expo Call 972-516-9070 Email info@northtexaskids.com
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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Contents March 2009
l
Volume 7 No. 3
15
8
35
Birthday Party Mania?
20
Summer Camps 2009
15
Staycation Ideas For Spring Break?
26
Family Resource Guide
12
Craft: Treasure Stone
16
Spotlight: Flower Mound & Highland Village
30
Emma's Kid-Friendly Restaurant Review
13
Party Time Fun
18
Keeping Kids Entertained the “Write Way�
36
Focus on our Advertisers
26
Spring Word Fun
19
Ger - What a Mongolian Tiger Says?
37
March Calendar of Events
28
Kids in the Kitchen: Hand Cookies
31
Dig Nature with your Child!
40
Alexandria’s Book Review
33
St. Patty's Day Fun
35
Coaching Kids Through Spring Cleaning Chores
41
Index of Advertisers
32
Lessons from Middle School Basketball
34
Sports & Fitness Programs
8
6
Celebrating our 7th Year in Print!!
Birthday Joke Fun
Deh j^ J [nWi Your Fam ily
January
Wi Dehj^ J[n ,JET Healthy to Raising Happy, Your Family Guide
Kumar, age 7 Cover artist: Shillpa
2005
2003
e? a Life of Balanc Are You Living Fireworks Safety Cellphone g Your Child a Rules for Gettin dar of Events July/August Calen Page 1 r 2008 Summe
FREE
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North Texas Kids  •  March 2009  •  www.NorthTexasKids.com
2006
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Kids www.nor thtexask ids.com
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askids.com
www.northtex
In this issue
: You Got a Puppy Cover artist: Joshua for Chr Bank / age 8 istmas.. Where . Now Wh Are You at? / Sna Going in 2009? ck Atta ck... All Travelin the Wa g TipsNorth/Texas Kids i ,JET y to the Januar Januar Join Dehj^ J[nW y 2009 y Cal www.NorthTex end asKids.com Grill ar of Events 1 & The Studio Movie S N S 3ERIE #HILDRE FOR THE 3UMMER
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2007
Guide
2009
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2009
Note from the Publisher
Minette Riordan, Ph.D.
Happy 7th Birthday to North Texas Kids! Dear readers, friends and clients, It is almost impossible for me to believe that I am still publishing a magazine. When I launched Collin County Kids in February of 2003, I don't think I had a clue about where I was going. I knew why I wanted to start my own business. I originally started Collin County Kids for two reasons: I wanted more access to information and resources to help me raise my kids and I wanted to have the freedom and flexibility that being a business owner would give me. Little did I know that my little quarterly newspaper would grow into a monthly magazine that covers most of the metroplex and that all of my time would be spent helping this third baby to grow up. My children and husband have been there every step of the way, and in all honesty, we have all grown up together. Over the years, I have learned a great deal about being a business owner, about being a leader, about working with lots of different people and about being clear what I want. I have also learned that it takes a great deal of hard work and sacrifice to grow a new business and keep it going, even when times are tough. My family has not always gotten the best part of me and I have strived to make it all work, but sometimes I failed miserably and none of us was happy. I have learned many lessons about being a working mom and what my limits are both at the office and at home. I have learned to schedule family time, just like I schedule my work time. I now put myself into my
calendar, too, and get up early every morning to have the quiet time that I need to rejuvenate and get me through the day. I celebrated my 44th birthday in January and I am thrilled where I am in my life. I have two happy, healthy children whose smiles get me through every day. I have a fabulous husband who is always there and we are about to celebrate thirteen years together. This is truly a moment to celebrate and to enjoy where we are. Our business is thriving and we are adding exciting new partners, advertisers, friends and programs. We are hosting two huge Free family expos this year. We are also hoping to launch a radio talk show. Life is good! For me, birthdays are a great time to take stock, to reassess the previous year, to clean out closets (both physical and mental) and clear cobwebs. Birthdays are a day to celebrate surviving another year and being alive to talk about it. One of my stepfather's favorite sayings when you ask him how he is doing (he is about to turn 80) is "It's the best day of my life, I read the paper this morning and my name wasn't in the obituaries." I use to think this was a morbid thing to say but now I realize that he was, in his own way, celebrating each and every day that he woke up to face the world. Birthdays are also a great time to practice saying "thank you." Thank you to those people who have helped you get where you are, thank you to your family, your best friend, your kids. I love birthdays and I love to give gifts to family and friends. Birthdays are our opportunity to acknowledge
the people in our life and say, "I see you and I am so happy you are here!" Birthdays are our opportunity to look at ourselves and acknowledge what we have accomplished. It is often so much easier to acknowledge others and forget about ourselves. I have a friend who celebrates her children's half-birthdays, what a great idea. Create opportunities to celebrate, give thanks, share joy and just have fun any time. We get so caught up in our day to day lives we forget to celebrate the small things. My daffodils were blooming this morning, brilliant yellow in the sun. That's worth celebrating! Our 7th anniversary issue has several great articles on party planning along with lots of great venues to host your next party. It is already time to think about Summer Camps and we have so many great options for this summer. My son has already planned his own camps and LEGO camp at SMU tops the list as always. My daughter is begging for a drama class, so we are exploring our options with Drama Kids, Dallas Summer Musicals and Rover Dramawerks. No matter what your child's passion, there is something out there for them. Summer is such a great time to allow kids freedom to explore new ideas, concepts or develop talents. We would love to hear what some of your favorites are. Email us at info@northtexaskids.com. Happy reading,
Publisher/Editor
Minette Riordan minette@northtexaskids.com
Web/Media Designer
Brad Dobson bdobson@northtexaskids.com
CMO
Cindy Watts cindyw@northtexaskids.com
Editor of Sports Scoop Mike Kravik
mike@northtexaskids.com
Office/Sales Manager Heidi Schlabs heidi@northtexaskids.com
Account Executives
Tari Jacobs Cindy Johnson Nancy Luttinger Lori O'Connell Michelle Simms Cindy Watts
Creative Dir. /Designer Brittany Allen
2nd Story Design brittany@2ndstorydesign.com
Printed by
Midway Press, Dallas Tx
Mailing Address
Scissortail Publishing
700 E. Park Blvd. #110 Plano, Texas 75074
Phone
972-516-9070
Fax
972-516-9048
North Texas Kids is a Division of Scissortail Publishing LLC. North Texas Kids is published 12 times a year. Copyright 2009 by North Texas Kids©. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. North Texas Kids encourages your submission of articles, children’s artwork, photographs and ideas. We reserve the right to edit all submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication. Recommended article length is 500 to 800 words. Viewpoints of the articles are not necessarily the viewpoints of North Texas Kids. Materials will not be returned. Advertising is accepted at the discretion of the Publisher. Advertisers assume all liability for the content of their printed advertisements and agree to indemnify North Texas Kids and its publisher for any and all claims and expenses arising therefrom.
Cover Artist...
Your child will receive $50 when we use his/her artwork Karissa Smith Meet Karissa Smith, she is 8 years old and attends Pullen Elementary School in Rockwall. Her pets include lizards and some fish. She loves to read, especially Magic Treehouse books. Her interests
on the cover of NTK. North Texas Kids loves kids’ art. Feel free to send us your child’s Masterpiece. We are looking for covers that are unique, bright and colorful. Each child that appears on our cover receives $50.00 along with his/her picture and
include writing her pen pal in Tanzania, art,
story in the paper. Submissions may be digital or print. Email pictures to
animals, and bike riding. Her favorite place to go
info@northtexaskids.com or mail them to Scissortail Publishing, LLC. 700 E.
is Lake Michigan where she goes every summer.
Park Blvd., Suite 110, Plano, Texas 75074. North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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North Texas Kids  •  March 2009  •  www.NorthTexasKids.com
2. Why do we put candles on top of a cake? 3. What do you say to a cow on her birthday? 4. What does a cat like to eat on his birthday? 5. What does every birthday end with? 1.Your age. 2. It's too hard to put them on the bottom. 3. Happy Birthday to MOO. 4. Cake and MICE-
A comprehensive hearing screening is administered to all children admitted for speech therapy services.
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by Rebekah Cooksey
NOW OPEN IN CARROLLTON d 0 $2 ken lar e e v e cu Sa r w cta u e ny yo Sp day with a1/09 n o vate irth binedp. 12/3 i B e com t. Ex Pr t b oun no
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The social event of my year at one point was Homecoming. Then the Prom. Then my employer's Christmas Party. Then my friends' weddings. Now, it's my children's birthday parties. I'm early on in the life phase of birthday party planning responsibilities, meaning I've only done a few, having an almost-3 year old and a just-turned 1 year old. But, being the over-achiever planner and organizer that I am, I've already gone overboard, as evidenced by my son's 2-yr old party last year. A few months before his birthday, I hadn't known more than a handful of toddlers. But, at 18 months we started him in a pre-school, and I started getting more involved in my neighborhood and other activities. So, all of the sudden his circle of friends ballooned, and our guest list topped 25 2-year olds. We filled The Little Gym's party room to the brink between kids, parents, pizza, and cake. We gave out personalized (with a paint marker and my own hand) yellow plastic hard hats filled with construction-themed goodies and wrapped up in cellophane with a caution tape bow to all the kids. Jack got oodles of gifts that relieved Jim and I of toy-buying for several months as he had more than he could possibly play with. Everyone had a good time (I think and hope), and we have some great memories and a wonderful scrapbook to show for it (OK, the scrapbook needs a little work still, but it's close!). But now as I contemplate this year's party, I have to ask myself how I top last year's. As one Mom from our Moms Out Loud community wrote in: "The best advice I can give is DON’T OVER DO IT. Especially at age 3, you’re child is very likely to remember this birthday when he hasn’t remembered the ones before. So, if you do a huge, expensive party, you’ll have a hard time in future years surpassing the last party."
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North Texas Kids  •  March 2009  •  www.NorthTexasKids.com
The first question in your planning process is going to be who to invite? I've read that it's recommended to have no more friends than your kid is old in age (meaning for a 1 year old's party, have 1 friend, 2 for a 2-yr old, etc.). I've decided that person giving that advice doesn't live in the North Texas suburban area. Or, at least, doesn't know any of my friends, or my friends' friends. Because while I know lots of people who keep their 1-year old's celebration a family affair, by age 2 and certainly by age 3, the majority of people I know invite more kids than the child's age. Way more. Orders of magnitude more. Ultimately, the decision for how many children to invite will be limited to the number of children your pocketbook will stretch to
accommodate and how many the birthday facility can hold. And the answer to the ultimate question: Do I need to invite my child's entire class? I wish I could tell you. Everyone seems to have a different opinion on how many - or if any - to invite. My personal recommendation is to gauge it on the friendships you want to make and those you want your child to make. If you have a gaggle of neighborhood kids or church friends running around playing and keeping your child active and social, you may not need to invite many (or any) of the school class. However, if this is your child's main source of social connections (and therefore likely your source of parental connections), I'd suggest being more inclusive.
Do you need to send a formal invitation? I say: "No." I am a big fan of www.evite.com, because it allows you to keep track of who you've invited, who's coming, and creates a way for you to send messages out to the invitees as a group if details change regarding the event (e.g., reminders to rsvp, bad weather plans, reschedule needs, etc.). Also, while I don't have physical addresses for some of the people I want to invite, I do have email addresses for everyone. They have great templates where all you need to do is fill in the details and send it out. Done. Oh, and did I mention FREE? For those traditionalists (and/or scrapbookers) among us, formal invitations are nice and can be a sweet momento of the event. As a guest, I have found them to be very helpful to remember details about the party, because I tuck them into the handy pocket of the WORLD'S BEST Mom Calendar (MORE TIME MOMS Family Organizer 2008 Pocket Wall Calendar for just $14.99 on Calendars.com and has truly 16 months of calendar pages) and pull them out to make sure I have the info correct about the event. The cutest one I have ever received was one that was handmade. It was on plain red cardstock, with barn animal stickers on the front and a bow made of twine. The event was a petting zoo party on a farm that friends had recently purchased and caught the spirit of the party - and probably helped get a birthday girl very excited about having her friends over! Another great idea is to use one of the photo sites (personal favorite is Shutterfly) to create a picture-card for the party. These can be done for about $.99/card.
My only advice here....follow your child's lead. If they are a superintense Dora or Diego fan, you may consider those themes. Again, a personal bias: choose something that lends itself to a little creativity. If you do a character theme, you are likely going to have a lot of pre-packaged party goods to choose from which will provide a lot of convenience for you in planning, although you will also possibly convey a "packaged" feel. I admire the Moms who can come up with unique ways to carry their birthday party theme through in many different ways using a variety of products - like the twine bow on the petting zoo/barnyard party invitations, or the bucket used as a party favor holder for a pool birthday party another friend did. You could - gasp! - choose to go with no party theme, or at least go easy on the use of whatever character or subject you've chosen to highlight. For instance, it's doubtful anyone will really notice if you use plain tableware versus a theme design. All kids and certainly most parents don't care if the plate has a Batman on it - as long as it's delivering a yummy piece of cake! To give you an idea of how much money you can save by choosing basic solids for tableware vs. a theme option, I checked Oriental Trading. Oriental Trading is the best source I've found for party goods, including tableware, decorations, North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
9
party favors, etc. with the best pricing and selection. A solid color dessert plate is $3.69 for 25, versus a Disney Princesses dessert plate which costs $2.99 for 8. That's a savings of 65% - or almost 25 cents per plate. That may not sound like a lot, but when you consider savings on napkins, cups, and other party goods you might just pay for some of your party favors by going this route. Other sites to look at for party goods are Celebrate Express and Birthday Direct, both of which offer a good balance of selection and price (and are where I bought the party favors for Jack's party last year that I didn't get from Oriental Trading). If you do choose to do a theme, you may want to check out Birthday in a Box, which offers exactly what the name implies -- it allows you to purchase an entire theme pack for birthday parties (with a convenience premium in price, of course).
You think you're doling out the cash, right? Wrong. Party favors are a necessity in the birthday party world, so don't let them be a surprise expense. They actually should be figured into your budget, and may even impact how many kids you invite. If you figure $3 or so per child (though I've seen some goody bags that had to be more) multiplied by 20 kids, that's a substantial expense. While filling the bag with candy can lower the expense, here is one Mom's plea: "You can do little containers of play-dough, plastic lizards, and other little party favors along with candy – just don’t send kids home from the party with a bag full of only candy!" A personal favorite that I love is when the goody "bag" is actually something that the child can use again - even better if it has their name on it. For example, at a pool party, we got a sand bucket with some sand toys and other goodies. We still use it in our own sandbox. At the petting zoo party, we got straw western hats for the boys filled with goodies - which they still wear today. It's a great way for the kids to remember the parties and their friends.
A recent trend I've seen is parents specifying "no gift" for their children's parties. I admire their conservatism and desire to shelter their kids from commercialism for as long as they can. However, I have to say I have not heeded such requests, though I have "snuck" the gift to the parents for opening at their discretion. My excuse? I like to have Jack (and soon, Luke) participate in the choosing and wrapping of the gifts, and writing of the cards, for their friends' birthdays. I love to give gifts (and get them, of course) so I personally enjoy this part of the whole birthday party process. I think generosity is an important value to teach your children and believe the giving of gifts is a big part of that.
First: you can give a thoughtful gift without spending a lot. My sister's advice had been to spend about $15/child on a gift, which I did until I became the starving entrepreneur and reduced our family to one income (plus a lot of savings out the door). Now, I spend more time thinking ahead about what the birthday child will enjoy and how to come up with something less expensive and creative to give to them. Crafts that you can make personalized with the child's name are a great option (kids love things with their names on them!). 10
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
Second: consider donating some of the gifts your child receives to charity. I personally haven't tried this, and actually don't know anyone who has, but we're going to try it for Jack's 3rd birthday. We consistently go through closets and dressers, giving clothes away to charity (most, unfortunately are mine, as motherhood and the aging process have made some of my former clothes useless to me), so Jack is familiar with the idea. He's even given some toys of his own up for charity at times. We'll see how it goes when the toys are brand new and he hasn't gotten to play with them yet! And, finally, when the party is over, the gifts unwrapped, the trash thrown out. . . there are thank you cards to write. It is an essential part of the entire birthday party cycle and good etiquette. A simple note is all you need to send. Want to personalize it even more? Get double prints of your party pictures and send one along as a momento of the party. Want to make sure your kids understand how important thank you's are? Have them help with the cards. Crayon squiggles are OK (and kind of cute). Rebekah Cooksey is the Founder and Chief Executive Mom of www.MomsOutLoud.com, a new online resource for DFW Moms that includes Mom reviews of local businesses, a directory of local businesses searchable by category with live weblinks, a comprehensive calendar of events, Mom- and family-related information, and online discussion groups on Mom topics. She lives in Plano with her husband, 2 boys (3 yrs and 19 mo. old) with a baby girl on the way. She can be reached at rebekah@momsoutloud.com.
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North Texas Kids  •  March 2009  •  www.NorthTexasKids.com
11 
The perfect party favor...
Treasure Stone
"For his 6th birthday, our son Kellen wanted a pirate-themed party where we would give out mystery rocks, store-bought stones with tiny treasures inside, as favors," says Danita Thomas. "Rather than buying them for the 15 guests, John suggested trying to make them. He remembered his mother making stonelike clay with used coffee grounds when he was a kid. So after some experimenting, we came up with our own surprise-filled mystery rocks that turn trash into treasure."
Supplies needed
:
1 cup flour
1 cup used coffee grounds (set them out overnight to dry)
1/2 cup salt
1/4 cup sand
3/4 cup water
Small prizes, such as plastic toys, dice, and marbles
Instructions
:
1. Heat the oven to 170 degrees. In a medium-size bowl, combine the dry
ingredients. Slowly add the water, stirring until the mixture forms a dough.
2. Roll a piece of the dough into a ball roughly the size of a baseball. Use
your finger to bore a hole to the center, push in a couple of small prizes, then
seal the hole with more dough. Repeat this process with all of the dough.
3. Place the stones on a baking sheet and cook them for 40 minutes, then allow them to cool completely before giving them to the kids to break open (easy to do by hand). Makes 4 treasure-filled stones.
:
TIP Try hiding the treasure stones around the yard for a fun birthday party scavenger hunt. John and Danita Thomas are the founders of Kid Concoctions. They are authors of a series of books,
videos and other products that help you create fun and inexpensive toys and crafts at home. They regularly appear on t.v. and you can find video demonstrations of their projects like the Treasure Stone on You Tube. Find out more at www.kidconcoctions.com.
12
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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Dallas
214-373-0037 Preston Royal Shopping Center Suite 110 Dallas, TX 75230
Plano
972-473-6100 LakeSide Market Suite 588 5809 Preston Rd. Plano, TX 75093
Ft. Worth
817-737-7177 Chapel Hill Shopping Center 4601 W. Freeway Ft. Worth, TX 76107
“ Staycation has become a popular buzz word of late and a new sales gimmick used by local businesses to attract attention. But in all honesty, many of us have often taken "staycations" and they can be both fun and cost-effective. According to WiseGeek.com "A staycation is a unique kind of vacation in which vacationers, or staycationers in this case, stay at home instead of going away. One might ask how a staycation can be a vacation if it is spent at home. The idea behind a staycation is that one take time away from their everyday life, without actually having to travel away." Whether money is tight, time is short or you just don't like to fly and car trips make you crazy, a "staycation" can be a fun alternative. Here are a few tips on how to make the most out of your staycation and a few, fun ideas on where to go in the metroplex.
First, here are a few tips for making the most of your staycation: • Set specific dates and times, just as you would for a normal vacation away from home. Don't answer the phone or check email unless absolutely necessary. Or pick a certain hour or two of the day for checking-in (if you are as addicted to email as I am, the thought of spending a week away is just too much for me!) The goal is to act like you are in the Carribean on an island for a week away from the stresses of every day life. • Avoid the activities that are part of your every day life. Have your laundry done, errands run and your house clean before your staycation begins so that you can
relax and devote your time to playing with your children. Order food in or eat out as your budget allows. You should not have to wash dishes on your staycation unless absolutely necessary. There are many great restaurants that have free kids' meals or inexpensive meals. We have a great list you get when you sign up for our e-newsletter at www.northtexaskids. com. Do a coupon hunt online and in local papers in preparation for the week, too! • Replace daily activities with other ones you would do on vacation: read books, play board games, do a puzzle, visit a local museum or park, go to the zoo, a local festival, etc. If it's warm, go to a local pool, lake or sprayground and get wet! Make sure to take lots of photos, just like you would on a regular vacation! Maybe creating a family scrapbook could be part of the fun activities you plan. • Turn off the alarm clock unless you have an early tour date planned! Let the kids stay up late (and hopefully sleep late the next morning.) • Make a list or plan activities ahead of time so that you can maintain the "vacation" feel for the duration. Your are less likely to spend all day playing video games or sitting on the couch if you have a plan in place. Let your kids help create the list. If you have a budget, give them choices and allow them to particpate in the planning and show them how to make the most of the time and money. • Pick a theme and make a list of activities around that theme. If you love the beach, see how many waterfilled ideas you can come up with. A hose or a sprinkler in the backyard can be tons of fun. When was the last time you played with water balloons or water guns? • Stay at a local hotel and take advantage of nearby activities, sight seeing and restaurants. You still save on gas and airline tickets. Check out
Staycation
Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine for a trully unique local get away.
Interested in Arts or Science? • Dallas Musuem of Art is hosting a spring break camp but they also offer a variety of familyfocused activities that are great for introducing your children to art like Family Films and Sketching in the Galleries for Kids. The King Tut exhibit is phenomenal and they have some great family 4-pack deals on tickets. www.dallasmuseumofart.org • Kimball Art Museum is hosting a spring break camp for young art lovers. Take a worldwide art tour from ancient Mexico to Renaissance Italy and beyond to explore how families lived at different times in history. www.kimballart.org • The Musuem of Nature and Science in Dallas is also hosting a Spring Break Camp. Starting March 14, they are launching "Discovery Days" the second Saturday of every month. March 14 is all about discovering construction, every little boy's dream (and a few girls, too.) www.natureandscience.org
If you and your kids like animals, you have lots of great opporunities in the metroplex or within a few hours drive: • Dallas Zoo www.dallaszoo.com • Fort Worth Zoo www.fortworthzoo.com • Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch in Pilot Point - Make sure to check website for dates they are open to the public. www.sharkarosa.com • Frank Buck Zoo in Gainesville Join them in celebrating Frank “Bring ‘Em Back Alive” Buck’s birthday. In honor of Frank Buck’s birthday zoo admission will be "a buck a head" ($1) on March 17. www.frankbuckzoo.com Dallas World Aquarium www.dwazoo.com • Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose www.fossilrim.com • Heard Musuem in McKinney www.heardmuseum.org
”
by Minette Riordan, Ph.D.
Get outside! Knowing Texas, the weather could be fantastic or you could be in for a few thunderstorms. Take advantage of those sunny days and go for a hike or have a picnic. Some of my family's favorite spots are: • White Rock Lake in Dallas. Great playgrounds and lots of space for kids to run! If youget lucky, you might see one of the local parrots that live there. • Arbor Hills Nature Preserve in Plano • Dallas Blooms at the Dallas Arboretum. • Isle du Bois State Park at Lake Ray Roberts - awesome sandy beach, shallow water and covered picnic areas make this a favorite family spot to spend the day. There are lots of great Texas State parks nearby that would make fun day-trips or short overnight trips. www.tpwd.state.tx.us • Dinosaur Valley State Park near Glen Rose, TX www.tpwd.state.tx.us • Cedar Ridge Preserve - with 10 miles of hiking trails and oodles of birds, this is always a great place for a hike. www.audubondallas.org/ cedarridge.html
Don't forget to schedule some down time, too! • Read a book, take a bubble bath, watch a family-friendly video and eat popcorn or spend a whole day in your pajamas! • Go to a local movie (Studio Movie Grill is our favorite.) • Visit a storytime at a local bookstore or library. Visit www.momsoutloud.com for a calendar listing many local storytimes. • Go to a mall that you have never been to before. • Go to a fun, crafty place and make art like Smashing Times (Dallas), Quiggly's Clayhouse (Richardson), Color Me Mine (Frisco and Flower Mound), Sunshine Glaze (Southlake), Paint Yer Pottery(Dallas) or Creative Hands (Pantego/ Arlington). For more ideas and links to these sites, please visit us at www.momsoutloud.com or www.northtexaskids.com.
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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Spotlight on Flower Mound & Higland Village fun events... Event:
Summer Fun Showcase The Flower Mound Library will host the annual Summer Fun Showcase from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 28. Don’t miss this great opportunity to plan your family’s summer fun! Businesses and organizations in the Flower Mound area that offer summer camps, programs or activities to Flower Mound residents will be on hand to distribute information and take registrations. www.fmlibrary.net.
Event:
Easter Egg Hunt Each year the City of Highland Village holds their annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Unity Park baseball/softball field facility. This event is free to the public and will be held on Saturday, April 4th.
Event:
Underwater Easter Egg Hunt The Underwater Egg Hunt Extravaganza is for kids 3 to 10 years old who want to hunt for eggs in the indoor pool, eat candy, and enjoy splashing around the pool. The Hunt begins at 5 p.m. with staggered times for different age groups. Cost is $5 per participant for CAC members and $6 for non-members. Register at the CAC front desk. To help sponsor this event please call 972.874.6280. April 13, 2009 at the Flower Mound Community Activity Center. Event:
Event:
Wild About Flower Mound Festival The Town of Flower Mound is presenting the Wild About Flower Mound festival to celebrate the fun and festive family atmosphere of the Town of Flower Mound. The festival will include non-stop family entertainment on two stages, great food, arts & crafts vendors, a large children’s area and other activities for the entire family. Dallas Mavericks house band, Emerald City will be featured on Friday night and local disco favorites, Le Freak, will headline on Saturday night. Grab your friends, your family, your dancin’ shoes, and boogie down at the Wild About Flower Mound Festival! The festival will be held at Bakersfield Park, 1200 Duncan Lane on Friday April 17th from 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. & Saturday April 18th from 10:00 a.m. -10:00 p.m. For more information, visti: www.flower-mound.com/wild/
KidFish (Catfish) Rheudasil Pond will be stocked with more than 1,000 catfish for this free event for youth ages 16 and younger. Bring your family for some fun on Saturday, May 2, 2009. For more information, call KIDFISH at 1.877.REEL-M-IN or 972.874.6281. Rheudasil Park Pond, 2401 Lake Forest Boulevard, Flower Mound.
Event:
Highland Village Days Red, White and Blue Music Festival Highland Village Days is a great community event that brings together Highland Village families and outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate the beginning of summer. This eventful celebration brings the community together for a family fish-out, children's area, great music, food, fireworks and much, much more! The Festival will be on June 6, 2009 at the Copperas Branch Park. Event:
22nd Annual Lions Club Balloon Festival and Fair The 22nd Annual Lions Club Balloon Festival and Fair will be held August 14-16, 2009, on the shores of Lake Lewisville at Copperas Branch Park, Highland Village, Texas. Admission is FREE with a $5 per car donation for parking. Opening Ceremonies begin at 7pm with a balloon “glow”. Friday & Saturday nights relax & enjoy the musical entertainment. Saturday and Sunday mornings, hot air balloons will launch at 7 am, come enjoy our pancake breakfast while you watch the balloonists demonstrate their skills. Also visit
the Arts and Craft tents, Food Court, Kid Zone, Dunking Booth and take a swing at the Car Bash! www.hvballoonfest.com.
mommy’s picks on where to go and what to do in Flower Mound... hland e in Hig ll Hous o and ice T ts e a tl e s tr e ing to N love the o s eter. It y g e o e b v sw r e Ou We lo uldn't b rful, dinner. o r c e rs ft o e a w nde Village the own always d is n e a , ic e th serv here cream ids, and feel. The ind to k al family family. g and k h n has a re ili c a sm e rest in ers are -Dana the serv onal inte e a pers k ta rs ones e own young s for the Rheudesil rk a p d s! Moun ine tree Flower ks! It's a utiful p We love the duc r its bea g fo in k d a e -Kelly O fe n d n to a Sta nt pond ia g e . o for th fish, to lace to great p I think some of the area c greate enter st fam aroun Librar ily acti d the y. Att vities in Flowe e n the d r Mou Wedn ing th nd Pu e Fam esday blic ily Sto of eac an ev rytime h mon ening s the th th is a . Fam ird togeth fun w ilies lis ay to er to m ten to spend s a tories, ke a c enjoy and th . raft an en wo d crea rk te a sn ack to -Mary
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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around town...
See you on the runway!
Are your kids bored?
Butterfly Princess Glamour Royalty Fashion Show•Princess Tea Party Pajama Glamour Spa • Rock Star Concert 1865 McGee Ln. Lewisville, TX 75077
972-906-6300
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We keep kids entertained.
quick facts... l Flower Mound population: 62,450 / Highland Village population: 15,738 l Flower Mound derives its name from the prominent 12.5-acre mound located in the southern portion of the town which is covered by wild flowers. The most widely accepted explanation for the mound is that it was a sacred ceremonial ground of Wichita Indians in the early 1800s. l The much anticipated Community Activity Center is now open. Residents and Non-residents can enjoy all of its amenities including the outdoor water park with slides (seasonal), indoor natatorium, meeting rooms, gymnasium, fitness center, and much more. In addition, residents and non-residents can participate in the many classes, activities, and programs that the CAC will host. Memberships are available for purchase at the CAC, located at 1200 Gerault Road. For more information, call 972.874.PARK (7275).– www.flower-mound.com
“Thanks to all of our Flower Mound and Highland Park Advertisers!"
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coming next month: Grapevine
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6205 Coit Road • Plano, TX 75024 • 214-473-9995 2301 Cross Timbers • Flower Mound, TX 75028 • 469-549-4400 147 E. Harwood Rd. • Hurst, TX 76054 • 817-503-8100
Visit us at www.boomerangspartyandplay.com
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Plano Mom Creates New Book Concept: Keeping Kids Entertained the “Write Way” Children Become the Author with The Stapler Caper
Meet Max & Joey Buddy Detectives! Great new book for young readers who love a good mystery! Written by local author Glo Jenkins Brown This is a fantasy mystery novel about Joey Taylor and his lovable rescue dog Max, who witnesses a hit-and-run accident.
Schedule an author visit today! glo@wordsrme.com
Buy it today on Amazon.com!
Plano mom Cindy Ray stumbled upon a great idea quite by accident while on vacation with her family. Little did she know it would result in a career shift and new focus helping kids with their creative writing skills while entertaining them. Ray has created a unique new children's book where you become the author and create your own story based on the characters and the pictures. There are no words. Bridging education and entertainment, The Stapler Caper is a totally unique concept in the children’s book industry. Few books have the ability to grow with the child, but The Stapler Caper, a new hardcover book published by Dallas-based Kids Write On, LLC, keeps up with young, curious minds. The pages are full of engaging, colorful illustrations. Kids use their imaginations to create a story as unique as the child writing it. Educators believe that children who participate in creative writing apply a vast array of skills that aren't generally touched on in ordinary writing assignments. Ray developed the idea for The Stapler Caper while on vacation with her son and husband. She had that “AHA” moment in an old-fashioned bookstore while encouraging her son to find a chapter book to read. Ryan, who was 8 years old at the time, came to her with a wordless book that had bright and vibrant illustrations. She made a deal with her son to buy the book under the condition that he would write one sentence per page about what he imagined was going on in the pictures. “I couldn’t imagine he would agree and I couldn’t believe I was going to encourage him to write on the pages of a quality hardcover book,” said Ray. “But the moment we returned to the hotel room, he was fast at work, and I knew I had stumbled on to something big.” That’s where the journey began. Ray consulted education specialists, held focus groups, built a marketing plan that included giving a portion of the proceeds to children’s causes, developed the story line and the cast of characters down to the last detail and poured over each page for perfection. The Stapler Caper draws children into its clever storyline of good vs. goodfor-nothing set in Pencilworld. Ryan E. Racer and Bea Sharp started a normal day at Write Brothers Elementary School. What they didn’t expect to happen was that their special talents as super-pencils would be needed. Luckily, they’re always able to rely on trusty friends like Sketch the Janitor to help them erase the preposterous plans of the Evil Ruler and Sinister Stapler. The only thing we know for sure is that there will never be a dull moment with this cast of characters, aptly named The Do Writes ™. The best thing about this book is that no review can “give away” the ending. Whether on their own or working with friends and family, children will easily be able to get their creative juices flowing. It also makes a great travel companion and the perfect gift. “Building a business that provides a creative outlet for kids and an entertainment option for parents and grandparents is a dream come true,” says Ray. “When a mom told me that her daughter, who has attention deficit issues couldn’t put down the book, it really hit home. I thought this is what it’s all about.” The Stapler Caper, $16.95 (includes a character pencil), is available online at www. thestaplercaper.com, at local retailers Learning Express, Plano and Frisco; The Muse in Snider Plaza; and Toys Toys Unique on Lovers Lane; or by calling toll free 877-596-7257.
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
Ger What a Mongolian Tiger Says? By Minette Riordan, Ph. D. You might think the word "ger" refers to the growl of a tiger but in truth, a ger (rhymes with care) is a very unique type of house. The word ger means home. The ger is a portable, tent-like structure, but sturdy and cozy as a house. It’s a form of housing that is found over an area that stretches from the Caspian Sea, along southern Russia, through Mongolia, and up into Siberia. The Turkic peoples call it a yurt, the Russians call it a kabitka, and the Afghans call it a kherga or ooee. The ger is a very practical and well-adapted dwelling. The ger is dome shaped thus encloses the maximum volume of space with a minimum of surface area. The dome shape also allows winds to slip over and around the ger. The Mongolian steppes are very windy! The framework supports itself; aside from the two poles that hold up the crown, no poles stand inside and no stakes are needed outside – an advantage when pitching the ger on frozen ground. At the Museum of Nature & Science in Fair Park, there is a great new exhibit called Raise the Roof: An Exhibit about Buildings that will run through April 19. The Mongolian Ger is one of the featured types of buildings and one that to me seems the most different and interesting compared to the houses we build in the western world. The ger is the original mobile home. Many people in Mongolia still lead nomadic lives and the ger can be taken down quickly, moved usually by camel or yak and reassembled quickly. Assembly takes only a few hours. Compare that to the many months it can take to build a brick or stucco house. Aside from being round and portable, there are a few other features that the make the ger unique. It has insulation in the walls that is made from wool felt, not fiberglass batting like ours. It does have a wood frame, but it is not made out of 2x4s and nails, rather it constructed of lattice work sections of wood tied together with rope, string or other materials. Much of the Mongolian population still lives in gers, many of them factory produced. The city of Ulaanbaator is surrounded by ger suburbs. Many gers have stoves, electricity, and wooden floors. In Afghanistan, people often pitch gers next to their clay or stone houses and live there for the summer. Here are a few cultural facts on how to behave inside of a ger. Ask your children how what we teach them about treating others with respect is similar or different. According to Mrs.Bayarmaa, "Since their early childhood, Mongolian children are taught what to do or what not to do that shows respect to their parents, people, possessions and to nature." Here are some things which children are taught at an early age. Don't: Lean against a support column of a ger because it may cause bad luck, whistle inside a ger because it may cause a natural disaster, such as heavy rain and strong wind, put any trash or even water in the fire because fire is sacred, walk in front of older people, take food from another person's plate with your left hand, touch other people's hats, point a knife at any person, walk over a lasso pole, spill any milk, because milk and milk products are considered holy, receive things with one hand such as gifts and foods.
Do: Immediately shake a person's hand if you accidently step on his/her foot so they know you did not mean it. You can even buy a ger in the United States. There are several companies that make them here and have some great details and facts on the history and construction of the ger. There was even one for sale on Ebay and a video on You Tube on how to set one up! For a price of about $3,500.00, it seems like a bargain. I encourage you to visit Raise the Roof at the Museum of Nature & Science, 1318 South Second Avenue, in Fair Park and see a ger in person. Children can even construct their own small version of a ger in addition to see a variety of types of buildings, building materials and interactive exhibits.
Resources: www.natureandscience.org, www.mongoluls.net, www.mongolianger.com, www.mongolyurt.com.
A gym for children ages 12 months -12 years
13617 Neutron Rd. Farmers Branch, TX 75244 972-239-8100
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TEMPLE SHALOM PRESCHOOL SUMMER CAMP Oh, the Games we Play! (For ages 12 months through 5 years) 1. June 1-12: Balls, Balls and More Balls! Kidokinetics comes to Temple Shalom with all kinds of balls to promote a fun way to fitness. 2. June 15-26: Do, re, mi-1,2,3! That’s how easy math can be. Lynn Baskind brings her puppets who will introduce us to many fun math games. 3. June 29-July 10: Music Makers! Music Together teacher, Gila Vinokur will join us for singing fun with shakers and other percussion instruments as we make our own Temple Shalom Band. (Camp is closed Fri, July 4) 4. July 13-24: Outside Game Time! Let’s learn some of the fun games from years past: Hopscotch, Mother May I, Running Races, Obstacle Courses, Trikes and Bikes. Ms. Rhonda from Powerkids will join us outside for some rip roaring fun each Monday and Thursday.
CONTACT Bonnie Rubinstein: 972- 661-5025 brubinstein@templeshalomdallas.org
Love Horses? Private Lessons & Classes for ages 6 months to 100 years
Saddle Up and Learn to Ride Summer Horse Camp for Ages 6 – 14 Weekly sessions June 8 - August 17 Horseback Riding • Games on Horseback Horse-related Games and Activities • Water Day • Horse Costume Contest • Horse Show Each Friday
Capricorn Equestrian Center 6101 Ben Rd Sachse, Tex 75048
972-530-1124
www.capricornhorse.com
Drums, Voice, Violin, Guitar and Piano Musikgarten Classes: 6 months to 5 yrs
214-369-7772 SW Corner of Preston Rd. and Forest Ln. 11661 Preston Rd., Ste. 136 Dallas, TX 75230
Bring in this ad for a FREE introductory lesson. Exp. 3-31-09
www.GraySchoolofMusic.com North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
23
fun
fun !
fun!
Trot Your Youngsters Off to “Day Camp in the Country” at Prospering Farm • Ages 7-13 • Beginners through advanced • 20 minutes from Plano • Specializing in English style riding Campers will also enjoy crafts, swimming and a weekly horse show.
fun!
fun !
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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*Price valid for full year contract only / BW Ad. Ad design fee $25.00. www.northtexaskids.com
Spring Word fUN! 1. gorf
6. irdb
11. nta
2. ssrga
7. ingsrp
12. uddpel
3. niar
8. aniborw
13. dalyugb
4. fowler
9. eeb
14. icpinc
5. unsshine 26
10. bkie
15. tufybterl
1.frog 2.grass 3.rain 4.flower 5.sunshine 6.bird 7.spring 8.rainbow 9.bee 10.bike 11.ant 12.puddle 13.ladybug 14.picnic 15.butterfly
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
26
site b e ur w -up o n to er Go nd sig slett a ew ur n r to ou for nd ge ort on W! a rep DF n i E FRE t Free s Ea d i K
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
27
Kids in the kitchen Having a kids birthday party? Decorating already-baked hand cookies makes a fun activity and a delicious take-home treat. Ingredients: Cookies 1 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 eggs 2 1/2 cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder
Powdered Sugar Glaze 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 3 to 3 1/2 tablespoons milk Decorations Betty Crocker® decorating icings (in 4.25-oz tubes) Assorted small candies
1 teaspoon salt
Making the cookies.. 1. In large bowl, beat granulated sugar and butter with electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with spoon. Stir in vanilla and eggs, then flour, baking powder and salt. Cover; refrigerate at least 1 hour until firm. 2. Make cardboard hand shape by tracing around hand placed on medium-weight cardboard or sturdy plastic designed for crafts; cut out shape. 3. Heat oven to 400°F. On lightly floured cloth-covered surface, roll half of dough at a time 3/16 inch thick. Place hand shape on dough (or use hand-shaped cookie cutter); trace around hand with pastry wheel or knife. On ungreased cookie sheet, place hand shapes 2 inches apart. 4. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until no indentation remains when touched in center. Carefully remove from cookie sheet to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. 5. In small bowl, mix glaze ingredients until smooth and spreadable. Spread glaze over cookies. Decorate as desired with icings and candies.
Do-Ahead...
Bake cookies ahead. Wrap tightly; label and freeze up to 6 months. They’ll be ready when you want to decorate them. Thanks to Betty Crocker® at ww.bettycrocker.com/Recipes for this fun & yummy idea... please visit this site for many of other great recipes!
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
U N L E A S H E D
DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Bring your family this spring to enjoy all that the Dallas Symphony has to offer. With Pops and Classical weekend concerts, you’re sure to find something to please everyone! Get your group together for a savings of 20% or more!
MARCH 20, 21 Idols in Concert with the DSO
APRIL 10, 11 Music of John Williams
APRIL 16, 17, 18, 19 Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3, Organ
Jaap van Zweden, conductor
:Xcc ?`ccXip :fpc\ Xk )(+%/.(%+'0) fi \$dX`c _%Zfpc\7[Xcjpd%Zfd ]fi k`Zb\kj Xe[ `e]fidXk`fe% Kf gliZ_Xj\ [`jZflek\[ k`Zb\kj fe$c`e\# m`j`k ;XccXjJpdg_fep%Zfd Xe[ \ek\i gifdf Zf[\ Efik_KOB`[j%
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
29
Emma’s Kid Friendly Restaurant Review
The Purple Cow 5809 Preston Rd # 588 • Plano, TX 75093 • (972) 473-6100 by Emma Bonin
When
I
walked
into
the
We got cheese sticks for an
great restaurant to eat at for all ages!
but my dad liked them the most. I
grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly,
and had a chocolate shake. It was
and cheeseburgers on the kid’s menu
restaurant I saw pictures of cows
appetizer. Those were pretty good,
pictures; there were stuffed animals,
ate chicken fingers, mashed potatoes
EVERYWHERE! It was not just and a train! Of course most of the things were purple! The theme was sort of cowish, but then also kind of like a white & purple diner instead
of a black & red diner, or a white & red diner. There were some funny
pictures on the wall, like the “cow” Mona Lisa, and there was a pig picture, but instead of a pig’s face it
was a cow’s face. I thought the whole atmosphere was very cute! What
made it more like a diner was the tiling, the booths, and the drink cups they give you for your shakes.
absolutely delicious! My dad had a cheeseburger and onion rings, of
The kids menu also includes
hot dog, mini corn dogs, hamburgers, for ages 10 and under.
We visited the Purple Cow
course he demolished it. My mom
restaurant
positive she loved it. I was the only
5809 Preston Rd.Plano, TX 75093.
had the Santa Fe salad. I’m almost one who had dessert, but Daddy helped me. I had purple ice- cream with whipped cream and a cherry. You might think the purple ice-cream
is grape, but its vanilla. Maybe they should think about adding grape icecream to the menu.
Over all The Purple Cow is a
located
in
Plano
Lakeside Market Shopping Center Other locations in the area include
Dallas (Preston/Royal) and Fort Worth.
Emma Bonin is a fourth-grader at Hughston Elementary. She lives in Plano with her mom, dad, and brother, Jack. She is an avid soccer player and enjoys swimming, computer games, baking, and getting together with friends.
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References Provided Upon Request 30
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
Member: BBB, Plano Frisco & Dallas Chambers of Commerce
at
Minority/Women Owned Business
Spring break’s here--
nature child!
dig with your
By Jeanne McCarty, Executive Director, REAL School Gardens In these lean times, you may be wondering how to keep the kids enriched and entertained during spring break when your family won’t be flying to Cabo this year. Spring break is the perfect time to slow down, take a deep breath, and step into the backyard or a local park with your child. Connecting with nature calms and soothes both children and grown-ups, and it is something that we can all do for a wealth of benefits, for free. With your child, toss off your shoes, giggle, and wiggle your toes in the cool clammy mud. Look down and observe the tiny insects buzzing and crawling on the ground now that winter is past. Find a sunlit patch, stretch out on a blanket and close your eyes, then count the number of different birds you hear – you’ll be amazed. “At our core, we love and need nature,” said Clare Walker Leslie, acclaimed naturalist and author of Keeping a Nature Journal. “It’s a part of our ancient structure, and when it’s taken away, we feel weird.” Leslie recently led a workshop for parents and teachers in Fort Worth for REAL School Gardens, a nonprofit organization that currently works with 57 elementary schools and 30,000 children in North Texas. Our mission at REAL School Gardens is to work with elementary school communities to create learning gardens that raise hope, spark imaginations and connect children to nature. Ultimately, we believe we are creating future generations of environmentally responsible citizens. We know that parents are a child’s first teacher. So we work not only with teachers and school leaders, but also with moms and dads, grandparents, neighbors, and other partners interested in cultivating green communities around school gardens. Whether or not your child attends an elementary school in the REAL School Garden network, there is much you can do to stimulate your youngster’s interest in the natural world. Explore the trails of the Fort Worth Nature Center. Creekhop along the Paluxy River in Glen Rose and ogle at the dinosaur footprints. Fly a kite. Go camping for the weekend – and if you don’t have the skills, learn all about it at a Texas Outdoor Family Workshop at a state park this spring. Not only do you help the environment by cultivating a love of nature in your children – you also advance your child’s development. Research has found that daily exposure to nature enhances children’s cognitive abilities and stimulates their imaginations. Teachers in the REAL School Gardens network see evidence of this every day in children who spend time outdoors not just for recess, but also for learning. “Our students absolutely love to go into the garden, whether it is to plant something, work on a science lesson, sit and read, or have lunch and observe their surroundings,” says librarian Melissa Forsythe at Dickinson Elementary School in Grand Prairie, the newest school to join REAL School Gardens. “I remember a second-grade student heading back to class after spending time in the garden saying, ‘This is just like going on a field trip without leaving the building!’” To learn more about REAL School Gardens and read stories about the impact of our work on children and teachers, please visit www.realschoolgardens.org. North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
31
Sports Scoop
Lessons from Middle School Basketball by Mike Kravik
Ages 18 mos to 6 yrs • Child Physical Development Program • 9:1 Student to Instructor Ratio • All Registered Kids Engage in Our Games • Over 80 Fun Games & Activities • Structured Curriculum • Develops: Soccer Skills, Social Behavior & Motor Skills • 15 Indoor Facilities East of Dallas N. Tollway
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Register online at www.soccertotsdallas.com
BASEBALL
Ages 2 to 6 yrs 469-834-8450 Register online at www.lilsluggersdallas.com 32
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
February absolutely beats me down and the month of March seems to always drag it’s feet in arriving. February is named after the Latin term februum, meaning purification. Somebody missed the boat because February is much more about toleration than anything else and a necessary evil to the rest of the year. The weather in North Texas this time of year is at best inconsistent and at worst an extreme climate in a foul mood. Chamber of Commerce days that could shame San Diego are followed by ice, rain, fog and in this particular year, tornados! It makes perfect sense that a major flu virus that closed multiple schools in North Texas also happened in February. On top of everything else, I’m a huge sports fan and February is typically the Sahara Desert of the sports calendar. Giving credit where it was due, Super Bowl XLIII, played on February 1, was an exciting game topped off by a riveting fourth quarter. Across the country people gathered at various parties and watched the phenomenal ending in collective awe. Although it began on a high, the rest of February was largely a sports abyss. The NBA and NHL were stuck in their dog days and college basketball fans still have to wait a few more weeks before they can fill out their brackets. Pitchers and catchers have reported but is that really a good thing when the Texas Rangers still don’t have any pitching? The PGA tour started but it’s difficult to get stoked about it when Tiger Woods isn’t playing. So what does a sports addict do to feed his habit in the month of February? I am fortunate that my son played middle school basketball this year or I might have been left wandering the streets in a cold sweat. Since late November, his team has played once a week and the end of his season became my primary sports interest in February. It was also at the Super Bowl party I attended where other parents
shared their war stories about their sons’ adventures in middle school basketball. In middle school basketball boys and girls learn to play with kids of various abilities because the pools of talent to draw from are different for each school. Teams are filled with crossover football players anxious to get out of off-season drills along with select players who are in year-round basketball programs. Recreational players are sprinkled in the mix to make things really spicy. The end result is basketball’s version of a demolition derby with several levels of talent colliding at the same time. It is a unique time to play basketball because a lot of the select basketball players have experience going against and playing with the very best players in the area. Playing middle school basketball takes players back to those days where there was mandatory playing time and talent levels were all over the road. Kids well over six feet tall that can dunk are on the court with kids who have not yet cleared five feet. Obscenely lopsided scores become commonplace. Lots of parents accustomed to watching their kids play select basketball are also blind-sided by the disparity in talent. The reason a lot of parents moved their children to select basketball was to
of steeple which helps muffle any inaudible noises that may escape, plus it makes for an easy transfer when I put my head in my hands or go to DEFCON 5 and randomly massage my own scalp in frustration. To be fair, the coaches of these teams are faced with enormous challenges. In Plano middle schools, it’s Basketball 101 for wannabe coaches and you better love what you’re doing. They are in charge of two teams, run three two-hour practices by themselves after a full day of teaching, coach the weekly game of both teams and then scout for the high schools on Friday nights. My son was fortunate enough to play for a coach who loved the game but not every other coach in the district shared his passion. To the 7th grade coach who told his team before the season that he didn’t know anything about basketball and that he hated the sport- please do everybody a favor and quit. The kids you coach want to play basketball and represent their school. They should not be subject to complaints about your own career choices. March has thankfully arrived which should help nurture my own sports soul but my son’s basketball season and middle school sports career have ended. You wouldn’t know it from this article but his team had a wonderful season. They won most of their games and he grew as a player. Next year promises profound changes at several levels in his life and most of the kids on this team won’t be playing next year for their high school. The fact that he was so sad when this season ended told me he enjoyed the experience and is going to miss this time in his life when he’s older. Upon further review, that’s the most important thing and this February wasn’t as bad as most.
Sports Scoop
get away from the rec ball staples of mandatory playing time and disparities in talent. I had both perspectives because during his middle school years my son played on both the “A” and “B” teams. At times he was one of the better players on the court while at other times he was doing everything he could to keep up. At games, parents typically walk tightropes of emotions because they are filled with equal parts passion and frustration while simultaneously cheering for their children. It makes for a combustible mix. At a meeting with the parents before the season we are all given a politically correct spiel about trying to be as positive as we can at all times and not to berate refs or coach our kids from the stands. The message that needs to be conveyed to parents is that it is acceptable to bring the same passion you have for professional or collegiate sports but you need to leave your criticisms at home. The tough part about accepting that message is that there is a scoreboard and somebody is keeping track of wins and losses. While you will see and hear occasional breaches of etiquette from the stands, most parents toe the line and keep criticisms to themselves. Saddling your child with “parental baggage” on their way to high school is never a good thing. The end result is a wide array of body language in the stands. Carotid arteries swell and are plainly visible. Bewildered eye rolling glances are exchanged and full conversations through clenched teeth are often exchanged. Occasionally a parent will get up during the middle of a game and “go get some fresh air” if they feel themselves getting close to the edge. I favor putting both hands in front of my face in the shape
St. Patty’s Day Fun... What happens when a leprechaun falls into a river? He gets wet.
Why do frogs like St. Patrick’s Day? Because they are always wearing green.
Knock Knock, Who’s there? Irish. Irish who? Irish you a happy St. Patricks Day!! North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
33
Sports & Fitness Programs Ask us about Spring Break Soccer Camp! Recreational & Competitive Leagues
Register online today! www.riserockwall.com 972-772-9061 Youth Soccer Register on MySAM by 03.20.09 Youth Basketball Register now on MySAM for the Spring League. Starts 04.04.09 Mention this ad & receive a $25 discount Good on any team fee or field rental. Coupon code RISE/NTK001
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34
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
Coaching Kids Through Spring Cleaning Chores Dr. Caron Goode On the surface, coaching kids to do chores seems like no more than getting children to pick up around the house, Coaching kids to pitch in regularly with household maintenance instills important values, teaches life lessons and basic domestic skills. Each skill listed in this article has an italicized affirmation for you and you child to put on index cards and read together each day to reinforce the team work of a family. Children feel like they truly belong to their family unit. Having kids do chores helps a child feel connected to their family. Assigning chores allows each member of the family to share responsibility in the day to day operations of home life, which sends these messages • We value you as a family member. • You matter; your contribution matters. • You are unique and important to the overall success of the family’s day.
From teaching responsibility to encouraging independence, chores instill important values in children, such as:
1 Responsibility. Chores teach kids that they are responsible for their
personal items like clothes and toys. If I don’t pick up my things and put them in their place I may lose track of them.
2 Teamwork. Chores teach kids that a group of people with a common
goal can accomplish much. When everyone does their share of tidying up, the house gets clean quicker.
3 Self-reliance. Chores teach kids that there are some things you must
depend on yourself to do. If I want a neat bed and I don’t make it, no one is going to make it for me.
Prioritization. Chores teach kids that sometimes we have to do the things that aren’t fun first. If I want to have a friend over, I need to pick up my play area first. Chores also help teach kids life skills, basic domestic tasks that all adults must learn to master. Basic life skills that can be taught through chores include: Cooking. Chores teach kids how to prepare meals and snacks. I can make my own snack when I am hungry. Cleaning. Chores teach kids how maintain a healthy home. When I see crumbs on the floor I should pick them up so that bugs don’t eat them. Laundry. Chores teach kids how to care for their clothing. My clothes don’t magically appear clean. And the great thing about chores is that even the youngest member of the family can do their part. Children as young as one can: Help put small toys in a large bin for clean up, make a bed, put clothes in hamper, put cup on table when done Children as young as two can: Clean up small spills, put books on a shelf, help sort laundry, carry small items from car to house Children as young as three can: Help set the table, empty paper trash cans, fold socks, put spoons and forks away Children as young as four can: Clear table, rinse dishes, help vacuum, dust Children as young as five can: Set table, help prepare meals, make a bowl of cereal, help feed a baby So as you take part in the annual rite of passage we call Spring Cleaning, get your kids involved.
To motivate your children to do chores: n Consider posting a Spring Cleaning chore chart. Make a grid and list each family member’s name across the top and chores down the side. As a chore is completed, allow your child to place a sticker or checkmark next to it. After the Spring Cleaning is complete, carry on with a weekly chore chart for the family.
Completing age-appropriate tasks can be fun!
n Make chores fun. Have chore races or make up silly songs to sing as you do your chores. The cleanup song has been known to motivate even the most uncooperative toddlers to pick up their toys.
5 Community. Chores teach kids the importance of community living. If I know how to be an active member of my family community, I will be able to be an active member of my school or work community.
n Offer a family reward. Once everyone’s done their job, prepare a favorite meal, play a favorite family game or go on a family outing or adventure.
4 Confidence. Chores teach kids to have an “I can do it” attitude.
6 Independence. Chores teach kids that they are capable of doing
Spring Cleaning provides the perfect opportunity to introduce your children to chores. Seize the moment! You’ll be thankful you did!
Chores also teach kids important life lessons that are best taught in the safety net of home. Organization. Chores teach kids that when everything has its place, it’s easy to find things. When I know where things are I won’t have to waste time searching for them. Structure. Chores teach kids that specific things must be done specific ways. When I do it right the first time, I won’t have to do it again.
Dr. Caron Goode is gifted with compassion in assisting others to effect lasting transformation through spiritual coaching, books, classes and seminars. Caron’s continuous education, experience in psychology and professional writing makes her a great resource for parents wishing to create and maintain a nurturing relationship with their children. She has positioned the Academy for Coaching Parents International (www.acpi.biz) at the forefront of the parent coaching movement to disseminate the coaching model of empowerment for parents. Read her newest book – Raising Intuitive Children by Goode and Paterson. Reach her at carongoode@mac.com.
some things on their own. As I get older, there are more things I can do without a grownup’s help.
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
35
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Our party host takes care of all your child’s needs for the party such as
of children and adults in the DFW Metroplex. Pump It Up Junior, our newest
games, food, refreshments and entertainment. At Butterfly Princess your party
youngest guests.
birthday parties should be fun and all about the birthday child. Butterfly
concept, was “born” out of requests and observations from parents of our Younger children often don’t have the stamina to jump, slide, bounce and
play for 1.5 hours before moving to the party room for refreshments. We also
noticed that many of the inflatable play structures in the full-size Pump It Ups were difficult for our younger guests to maneuver.
At Pump It Up Junior, we offer the same PRIVATE party experience with
trained staff and brightly colored and engaging inflatables, all in a clean, safe facility. We also offer ride-on toys and interactive activities for their growing, curious minds and bodies. Pump It Up Junior parties are 1.5 hours long, with 1 hour of playtime and 30 minutes of party room time. These smaller, shorter
parties are perfect for our younger kids and their parents. However, we are able to customize parties to meet specific requests.
In addition to parties, we offer open play sessions, called Pop-In Playtime
three days per week. One session is reserved for children ages 3 and under to keep them sheltered from bigger, more rambunctious kids. We also offer a “Jump N Pizza Family Night” two Fridays per month, and will be launching
a Jump ‘N Art camp and “PumpStart” structured play program this summer
is private and can be customized to fit your needs. We believe that children’s Princess Glamour, LLC. www.butterflyprincessglamour.com. 1865 McGee lane, Lewisville, Tx 75077. (972)906-6300.
Do you need fresh ideas for Fundraising, Kids & Parent Programs, Promotional products, T-shirts, etc... ?
PISD PTA Council Vendor Fair Saturday, March 28, 2009 Jasper High School
n
n
9 am - 1 pm
6800 Archgate Drive
n
Plano, TX 75024
Who should attend the Vendor Fair? Booster Club members, PTA members, Girl Scout & Boy Scout leaders, Child Care Directors, Church Youth Group Leaders, and other child related organizations.
The Title sponsor is EPI, Educational Products, Inc.
and fall.
We offer special pricing and packages to playgroups, childcare centers,
church groups and organizations looking for a place to host a fundraiser. Call or visit our web site for more information on our parties and programs! 972-792-9663 or www.pumpitupparty.com/plano.html. About Pump It Up
Pump It Up’s inflatable party zone was created as a fun, safe, clean place for
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children and adults to enjoy. Private parties for birthdays, team, school events,
etc. are available and must be reserved in advance. Trained staff provide guests
with supervision, food and beverage set-up, and clean-up services. Pump It Up is headquartered in Mesa, AZ with more than 195 locations across the country.
Butterfly Princess Glamour A Party Palace for girls - That is how we describe Butterfly Princess
Glamour.
We provide an atmosphere that is loved by children and parents. At B.P.G
we pride ourselves on quality service and personalization, starting with our preparty portrait session. At the time of booking we invite you to bring your child
in and we dress her in the theme of the party chosen and take different poses of
Here are a just a few of the topics our speakers cover... Parenting l Motivaton l Stress Management l Relationships l Self-Defense
her to be used for Party invites, thank you cards, welcome sign and more. This is all included in your party package along with cake, pizza and drinks .
Our New Rockstar Concert party is a big hit with a guitar shaped cake,
pizza, digital recording, drums ,and great costumes . We take party photos for you too and have them printed before the end of the party.
Our facility is over 3000sq ft so that our guests feel welcomed and comfortable.
Our Garden Tea Room has painted flowers, bunnies, birds, sun, clouds and butterflies. Your princess will feel like a princess in her own fairy Garden. 36
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
The Speaker Coop is your online resource for experienced, entertaining, and informative speakers for your next event. Search our website by topic or speaker.
Visit www.speakercoop.com today!
Calendar of Events
sponsored by...
Find these events and more online at www.momsoutloud.com & www.northtexaskids.com!
Z
March 1 Sunday Dallas HONUS AND ME: Young Joe Stoshack is crazy about baseball. When he finds the most expensive baseball card ever, the coveted 1909 Honus Wagner card, Joe suddenly finds himself face to face with the great player. Dallas Children’s Theater www.dct.org Arlington Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr.: Unpack Your Adjectives” and hop on at “Conjunction Junction” for this rollicking treat for kids of all ages. Ages 3+. 2/27-3/15; Fri & Sat 7:30pm, Sat & Sun 2pm in Arlington at Theatre Arlington. $10. For more info: 817-275-7661, www.theatrearlington.org. Lewisville Winnie the Pooh: From the pages of A.A. Milnes’ classic stories comes a lovable bear and his forest friends. Filled with lively music, this show is suitable for all ages. 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday Nights, Matinees 2:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday. Crawford Center for the Arts Edmonds Professional Office Building. 1720 S Edmonds Lewisville, Tickets on sale at the box office 1/2 hour before the show Adults - $10, Students and Seniors - $8, Kids under 10 - $7 Groups of 15 - $7 each Plano Divine Consign Children’s, Juniors and Maternity Consignment Sale: Divine Consign is the Metroplex’s favorite twice yearly children’s consignment sale specializing in the highest quality gently worn children’s, juniors and maternity clothing, toys, books, games, DVDs, baby equipment and baby & children’s furniture. Admission is free. Information: Tina Teutsch at 214-513-2838.www.divineconsign.net Plano Centre, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway Southlake Central Market Southlake KIDS PIZZA (BASICS). Sunday, March 1st. 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM. Kids love pizza! In this class we?ll show them how to make, roll and cook with pizza dough. They?ll learn to make Cheese pizza, Pepperoni Pizza Pockets and doughnuts!! $20.
3 Tuesday Grapevine DFW Center for Autism’s GROUP Family Support Course: This will be a GROUP course with up to 4 families. Those interested please contact Trey Hargroves, Director of Training: training@ dfwcenterforautism.org , or call (817)424-9797 ext. 209. www.dfwcenterforautism.org Plano Babywearing Class - 10:00 AM: Instruction in how to use several different baby carriers. Focuses on comfort for the mom & proper support for the baby. You will have the opportunity to try on various baby slings. FREE. Peppermint Baby Boutique is located at 1778 N. Plano Rd., Suite 100 in Richardson, 75081. Call 214-623-5080 to register or visitt www.peppermint.com. Lewisville Barnes & Noble weekly event for Spanish speaking toddlers and preschoolers - 4:00 PM: Tuesdays at 4 pm. Join our new weekly event, especially for Spanish speaking toddlers and preschoolers. We’ll read a book, have a snack and make a simple craft all in Spanish. Located at 2325 South Stemmons Frwy Lewisville 75067. 972-315-7966.
Southlake Kids Night at Chick-fil-A Southlake. - 5:30 PM: Kids Night at Chick-fil-A Southlake. Every Tuesday evening, Chick-fil-A Southlake offers free kids activities & loads of fun! 5:30-7:30pm at Chick-fil-A Southlake, 2301 E. Southlake Blvd., 817-481-7152 www.cfarestaurant.com/southlake/home Dallas Organic in the City - 6:00 PM: Organic in the City is an urban environmental education and entertainment series at Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park. Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park. To register, call (214) 428-7476 ext. 23 or visit www.texasdiscoverygardens.org.First Tuesday of the month. Cost: $10 per person; $8 for members Frisco Young Widows Support Group - 7:00 PM: At the Frisco Library 4th Floor. (Vivian Stark McCallum Room) 6101 Frisco Square Blvd. Frisco, TX 75034. The time will be 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Please contact Michelle or Terri at theseyoungwidowsgroup@yahoo.com.
4 Wednesday Plano Children’s Consignment Event: Over 120+ families bringing high quality items! (If you would like to bring items to make some extra $ please see our website under Contributor info). 6505 West Park Blvd Suite 116 Plano, Texas 75093 www.sweetpeastyles.com Dallas Hand-in-Hand - 10:00 AM: Wednesdays. Handin-Hand is a literacy based drop-in program for adults and their preschoolers. Each week hear a story, get your wiggles out to music, create theme-related crafts and enjoy fun activities! www.natureandscience.org Dallas Dallas Public Library Children’s Activity Series - 10:30 AM: This fun, hands-on activity program for pre-schoolers takes place in NorthCourt between Nordstrom and Macy’s at 10:30 am. www. northparkcenter.com Plano Babywearing Class - 3:00 PM: Instruction in how to use several different baby carriers. Focuses on comfort for the mom & proper support for the baby. FREE. Peppermint Baby Boutique is located at 1778 N. Plano Rd., Suite 100 in Richardson, 75081. Registration information can be found at www.peppermint.com or by calling 214-623-5080. Grapevine Rainforest Cafe Family Nights - 5:00 PM: Rainforest Cafe is hosting Family Nights every Wednesday night. Family Night includes activities like face painting and balloon animals. Receive discounts on Kid’s meals and hand out with Cha! Cha! Enjoy a WILD night of family fun in the jungle! www.rainforestcafe.com 972-539-5001
5 Thursday Irving The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley: 9:30 a.m., March 6 and 12:30 p.m, March 5&6. Carpenter Performance Hall, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving. This musical travelogue based on the popular children’s book series by Jeff Brown follows Stanley as he scours the globe for a solution to his unusual problem. $8 single, $6 group, (972) 252-ARTS (2787) or www.irvingartscenter.com for tickets.
Dallas Understanding Individuals With Asperger’s Syndrome or High Functioning Autism: This one-day seminar is designed for special education teachers and directors, psychologists, speech pathologists, counselors, social workers, classroom teachers, instructional aides, nurses, principals, vice principals, case managers, and parents. To register please visit www.lorman.com, or call (214) 357-8500 Garland The Beverly HILLbillies: Granville Arts Center - Small Theatre. Garland Civic Theatre presents an evening of hillbilly hilarity as the lovable Clampett family rides onto the stage! Tickets on sale at the Granville Arts Center Box Office or call 972-205-2790. www.garlandcivictheatre.org Plano Around the World in 80 Days: Rover Dramawerks will present a world premier adaptation of the Jules Verne novel Around the World in 80 Days. Performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at 8:00p.m. with a matinee performance on March 14 at 2:00 p.m. Presentation is family friendly. www.roverdramawerks. com Irving The Ant and the Elephant - 9:30 AM: Carpenter Performance Hall, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. Live production of the children’s book The Ant and the Elephant by Bill Peet. A tiny ant finds himself in trouble - stranded in the middle of a river - until a series of would-be rescuers wander by. One by one the animals fall into trouble of their own, until a friendly, but prideful, elephant saves them all.$8 single, $6 group, (972) 252-ARTS (2787) or www.irvingartscenter.com for tickets.
6 Friday Dallas North Texas Irish Festival: Fair Park. The largest Celtic Festival in the southwest United States. www.ntif.org/ Plano Life on the Farm - 10:30 AM: March 6 - School age (6-12): Manners and Customs March 13 Preschool (2-5): Nature, March 20 - Preschool (2-5): Wake Up Its Spring! www.heritagefarmstead.org McKinney Children’s Chorus Spring Concert - 7:00 PM: Children’s Chorus of Collin County, 6th Grade Choirs from Scott Johnson Middle School and Vega Elementary All-Star Choir. The program is based on a Broadway show tunes theme. McKinney North High School Auditorium 2550 Wilmeth Road. www.childrenschorusofcollincountry.org/
7 Saturday Plano Daddy’s Little Sweetheart Dance: Dads, grandfathers and daughters, 4 to 12 years, will enjoy a special evening filled with music and dancing. Register at www.planoparks.org. $15 per person. Information: Plano Parks and Recreation at 972-941-7250. Allen Allen Eagle 5K and Family Fun Run - 7:00 AM: Benefiting Foundation For Allen Schools and the Allen/Lovejoy Council of PTAs. 7 a.m. Onsite Registration + 8 a.m. 1-mile Fun Run + 8:30 a.m. 5K Race www.allenisd.org/foundation/ eagle_run.htm
Irving Race for Wishes - 8:30 AM: 5K/1M William Square, Irving, TX 214-496-9474 www.raceforwishes09.kintera.org Richardson Richardson High School 5k - 9:00 AM: Richardson High School, 1250 W. Beltline Rd, Richardson, TX 972-231-8260 www.rhs5k.com/ Plano Weather Wise - 2:00 PM: Weather Wise (all ages). Saturday, 2pm. Schimelpfenig Library - 3/7. 5024 Custer Road. Larry Mowry from Channel 11 will experiment with some wild weather! Learn about tornadoes, weather forecasting, and fun facts about television. www.planolibrary.org Plano Girl Scout Safety Day - 2:00 PM: Calling all Girl Scout Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors! The Plano Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit is sponsoring this afternoon of fun and education. The day’s activities will feature Ashley Elementary School’s Rockin’ Ropers Jump Rope Team from Frisco. FREE event. For more details call Linda Barnes at 972-941-2440. Plano-Richardson Training Academy 4912 14th Street.
8 Sunday Dallas Song and Dance: Two professional-quality young performing groups join together on March 8, when the Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas hosts Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s youngest professional group, BLOOM. In addition, the five Children’s and Youth Choruses will be joined by CCGD Neighborhood Chorus from West Dallas Community School. Tickets range from $8 to $35; call 1-800-838-3006 or visit www.thechildrenschorus.org/tickets to order. Plano PSOs FAMILY SYMPHONY SUNDAYS - 3:00 PM: Meet each of the individual sections of the Orchestra at the Courtyard Theatre for the continuation of the Family Symphony Sundays Series. Come early before each concert and enjoy the Plano Symphony Instrument Petting zoo an interactive musical learning experience, and more! To order tickets, call the Plano Symphony Orchestra Ticket Office at 972-473-7262.
10 Tuesday Garland The Trial of the Big Bad Wolf - 7:00 PM: Plaza Theatre. Coyle Middle School is proud to present “The Trial of the Big Bad Wolf” by Val Cheatham. It is set to 50’s music and is VERY kid friendly (not scary at all). Tickets are $2 for students, $3 for adults, and 6 & under are FREE! Dallas Lindamood-Bell Learning Center Open House. Be our guest and learn about our programs for reading, comprehension, and math. We will have presentations, refreshments, activities for children, and a chance to observe students in session. Presentations at 10am & 4pm.Tuesday, March 10th, 9:30am - 7:00pm. 4514 Travis St., Ste. 302, Dallas 75205. Call to reserve your space: 214.358.0688. www.lindamoodbell.com/openhouse
13 Friday Carrollton Carrollton Early Childhood PTA - Please join us for “Food and Fitness for the Family” presented
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
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by guest speaker Heather Ashwell-Hair. Free to parents/caregivers of children birth-age 6 in the area. for Childcare reservations recommended. 9:30 a.m. Friday, March 13 at 1901 E. Peters Colony Road in Carrollton. www.cecpta.org for details.
14 Saturday Richardson Tuzer Ballet presents “Coppelia” for Children: Countrywide Theatre, 2:30 & 7:30. Tickets: $10-$20 Eisemann Center Ticket Office 972-744-4650. www.tuzerballet.com Dallas Discover Construction: An exploration of green buildings. Plus, you’ll learn about building plans, make your own structure out of scrap materials, and find out how steady your hand is during the Jenga Tournament. Last one standing wins a prize! Museum of Nature and Science. www.natureandscience.org Frisco Summer Camp Fair at GattiTown - 10:00 AM: Visit with local vendors and learn all about the fun camps and workshops offered this summer. All guests must purchase a buffet upon entry. 3251 Preston Road #1400, Frisco. For more information: 214-618-9800 or www.gattitownfrisco.com Plano Merry Medieval Workshop - 10:00 AM: At the Cox Building Playhouse in Plano, TX, 1509 H. Avenue. Your student will not only be introduced to the fundamentals of theater but he/she will also learn about acting, lighting, sound, history and teamwork! Cost: Only $15 per student; $10 per student in groups of 10 or more. For More Information: 214-793-0657 www.womproductions.com Carrollton Fin M’Coul: The Giant of Knockmany Hill - 2:00 PM: Hebron & Josey Library, 4220 N. Josey Lane. Matt and Natalie Kramer, a brother-sister duo, bring this beloved tale by Tomie de Paola to life through acting, pantomime, dance and colorful costumes.
Monday March 16 Irving MultiArts Spring Break Camp: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Irving Arts Center. Spend Spring Break at the Arts Center! Campers will participate in a variety of fun arts-focused activities, including drawing & painting, weaving, tie-dyeing, creative writing and gymnastics. $191. www.irvingartscenter.com Dallas Discovery Camp: Take a break from school and do something totally cool! Embark on an exotic safari adventure, explore with the dinosaurs or unearth new treasures from the depths of the ocean floor. At the full-day Discovery Camp, children ages 5-12 can take part in a variety of hands-on activities and dynamic programs covering a wide range of topics - from prehistoric dinosaurs to the latest technology. Plus, before and after camp care is available. Museum of Nature and Science. Registration is necessary. www.natureandscience.org Keller Spring Break Adventure Camp: Fee: $140 Mem-
bers; $150 Non-Members. School’s out for the week and it’s time to have fun! Come join your friends at The Keller Pointe for a fun-filled week of games, crafts, swimming and a field trip. All of this, while making new friends in a safe and friendly environment. Parents will receive a parent packet with more detailed information. www.thekellerpointe.com
Keller Spring Break Arts Camp - 9:00 AM: Fee: $55 Members; $77 Non-Members. $55 Material Fee paid to instructor first day of class description here. For more information, call The Keller Pointe at (817)743-4FUN (4386) or send e-mail to thekellerpointe@cityofkeller.com.
17 Tuesday
Marc Robins Photography at NorthPark Center starts his annual Spring Portrait Promotion featuring the live bunnies (he calls it Bunny Rabbit Days 2009). March 17 thru April 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. No appointment necessary. NorthPark Center near The Gap in the hall between Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works. Cost: $34.95 plus tax and includes the session fee and one 5x7 color portrait while you wait. www.marcrobinsphoto. com or call if you need more info: 214-346-9015
Irving The Villain’s Moustache: The Villain’s Moustache (rod puppets) 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.Carpenter Performance Hall, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving. This lively show is a traditional old-time melodrama musical featuring colorful, tall rod puppets with animated mouths, eyes and eyebrows! $6, $2 lap child under 2 years, (972) 252-ARTS (2787) or www.irvingartscenter.com for tickets. Garland Fun with Science @ Central - 10:30 AM: Fun with Science @ the Central Library. Storyteller Virginia Lynn explores science through stories, magic tricks and science experiments! Children 7 years of age or older are invited to join in the fun. For more information call 972-205-2817.
18 Wednesday McKinney Run for Cover - 8:00 AM: 1k Fun walk/run and 5k/10k USATF sanctioned run to benefit the Samaritan Inn - the only emergency shelter in Collin County. Sponsored by 3eMcKinney and fully volunteer supported. Stonebridge Beach Club, 6203 Virginia Parkway Plano Press Play @ Your Library - 2:00 PM: ‘Press Play @ Your Library’ Teen Tech Week (teens) Enjoy spring break at the library - gaming, activities and crafts! 2-3:30pm at all locations. www.planolibrary.org
19 Thursday Plano A Beka Book Home School - 11:00 AM: A home school curriculum and text book sale. Admission is Free. For more information contact Mickey Pierce at 800-613-3222 Ext. 67 or visit our website at www.abeka.org Plano Centre, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway Lewisville Author Tonia Tomlin Speaking at MetroCrest Parents of Multiples Group - 7:30 PM: Tonia
Go to www.MomsOutLoud.com to see reviews on local businesses written by Moms just like you and find all these events online in our searchable calendar!
Tomlin, author of Chaos 2 Calm: the moms-ofmultiples’ guide to an organized, family will be speaking with parents and soon-to-be parents on how to get their home organized to create a less stressful environment. First Presbyterian Church in Lewisville. For further information please call 972-985-7515. www.sortedout.biz
Coppell ECPTA Annual Garage Sale - 7:00 AM: Multi Family--Lots of Stuff--Priced to Sell. Hampton Court Cul-de-sac (300 block). East of Parkway Blvd. @ North Coppell Road. [Rain Date: April 4]. Items not sold will be donated to CCA. www.cvrecpta.org
20 Friday
Carrollton Kacie’s Run - 8:00 AM: Kacie’s Run - Benefiting C-FB ISD Special Olympics (registration). 5K/1M. Tommy Standridge Stadium, 1330 W. Valwood Pkwy, Carrollton, TX 972-968-6788 www.cfbisd.edu/pages/newsKC.cfm
Dallas THE TALE OF PETER RABBIT: The award-winning musical adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s beloved and bestselling rabbit tale! New puppets based on Miss Potter’s charming illustrations spring to life to re-create the tale of the naughty little bunny who has captivated our hearts for over 100 years. Baker Theater/Rosewood Center. dct.org
21 Saturday Grapevine Easter Bunny Arrival Parade! Come and join in on the fun with the arrival of the Easter Bunny! There will be a very special arrival parade to include the cast and characters from the Carson and Barnes Circus! www.grapevinemills.com Dallas SPCA of Texas Strut Your Mutt 2009 - 8:00 AM: Bring your best tailwaggin’ friend out for a day of fun at the SPCA of Texas’ Strut Your Mutt 3K Walk/Fun Run on Saturday, March 21, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fair Park in Dallas. The entry fee is $30. www.strutyourmutt.info
24 Tuesday Frisco Young Widows Support Group - 7:00 PM: At the Frisco Library 4th Floor. (Vivian Stark McCallum Room) 6101 Frisco Square Blvd. Frisco, TX 75034. The time will be 7:00 9:00 p.m. Please contact Michelle or Terri at theseyoungwidowsgroup@yahoo.com.
27 Friday
Day Out with Thomas: Enjoy a day of family fun with Thomas the Tank Engine! A life-sized Thomas chugs into the Grapevine Vintage Railroad to take you on a 25-minute train ride! You will also enjoy live stage music, magic shows, bounce houses, a kiddie train ride, arts & crafts, pony rides and more! www.dallasrailwaymuseum.com
Keller Running of the Kidz 5K & F un Run: Bear Creek Park, Keller, TX 214-546-9568. run n i n go fth e ki dz.c o m/ Dallas Easter Bunny Visits & Photos: The Easter Bunny hops on in on March 27 and settles in his garden located in center court. He will be available for visits and photos through April 11. Valley View Center www.shopvalleyviewcenter.com The Colony Movies in the Park - 7:00 PM: The Colony Five Star Complex, 4100 Blair Oaks. FREE admission for everyone! Parental supervision required. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets! FREE popcorn! Other concessions available for purchase. March 27 - Kung Fu Panda, May 8 - Madagascar 2.
28 Saturday McKinney Sweet Repeats Kid’s Consignment Sale: The MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Groups at Trinity Presbyterian Church will be hosting a sale on March 28 from 7-12noon (1/2 price sale from 12:30-3pm!). Cash Only. Questions, or if you have children’s clothes or furniture to sell, please visit our website at www.sweetrepeatsmckinney.org Garland Non-profit group Dallas Association for Parent Education will hold a parent workshop called “Why Play Matters”. Come, play, and experience the value of open-ended play. Workshop is for adults only. To sign up or for more information call the DAPE office at 972-699-0420, Mon.Fri., 9am to 3pm. www.dallasparents.org
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North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
Plano PAMOM (Plano Area Mother of Multiples) Fall Garage Sale - 8:30 AM: $1 admission. Fairview Farms in Plano, 3314 N. Central Expressway, Suite 100. One of the largest sales of infant and children clothing, baby equipment and more www.pamom.org Keller 4th Annual Keller Pointe Underwater Egg Hunt-9:00 AM: The Keller Pointe Indoor Pool. $10 per participant, Pre-Registration required! Children 12 and under can enjoy searching the pool for eggs filled with special prizes. www.thekellerp ointe.com Grapevine METROPLEX DOLL CLUB 23rd ANNUAL SHOW & SALE - 10:00 AM: Grapevine Convention Center 1209 S. Main St. Grapevine. Adults $5 Kids 12 & under $2 Antiques, Art, Collectibles Southlake Central Market Southlake MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEA PARTY. Saturday, March 28th. 12:00 PM- 1:30 PM. Bring your next pretend party to life. We?ll help you celebrate this time honored classic. Learn how to prepare Cucumber Cream Cheese and Turkey Havarti Tea Sandwiches, Mini Fruit Tarts & Petite Brownie Bites. $40 Per Parent and Child Team.
Ongoing Fun Classes and Activities Carrollton Monday/Wednesday/Friday 10 am - 12: Preschool Playdates for 7 years and under. Tuesdays 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m: Family Fun Nights. Tuesdays 3:30 4:45pm : Fitness and Fun. Saturdays 8 - 9:15am Early Bounce for those early risers at Bounce U. The Ultimate party and play experience. 3050 N. Josey Ln #110, Carrollton, 75007. www.bounceu.com or 972-939-5000 for more information. Carrollton AW Perry Homestead Museum 1509 N. Perry Rd 972-466-6380. Free Admission and Tours, Mon - Sat 10 - 12 & 1 - 5. www.cityofcarrollton.com Dallas Every Friday 6 - 10 Parents’ Night Out hosted by The Gymnastics Place. Kids will enjoy pizza, drinks, entertainment, and special kid fun. RSVP preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Sibling discounts available. Check schedule for exact dates and times. www.thegymnasticsplace.com 972-248-2805 Dallas Lakeshore has FREE crafts for kids on Saturdays. Located just north of the Galleria on Dallas Pkwy (13846 Dallas Pkwy ) 972-934-8866 for more information. Dallas Dallas Arboretum. Mommy & Me Mondays - 10am - 2pm. 10am - 2pm: Tiny Tots Tuesdays presented by Children’s Medical Center. www.dallasarboretum.org Dallas Outstanding family entertainment is abundant at Slappy’s Puppet Playhouse. New Vaudevillians, Slappy & Monday, reach wider audiences in their newly improved Slappy’s Puppet Playhouse. Dallas Galleria - 3rd level, next to Nordstrom’s Visit our website for show times: www.slappysplayhouse.com
Flower Mound Story-times at the Flower Mound Library.Located at 3030 Broadmoor Ln, Flower Mound 75022. Visit the Town of Flower Mound Web Site for more information. Registration not required. Flower Mound/Highland Village Friday - Flower Mound 6 - 10 pm Saturday Highland Village 6 - 10 pm Excite! holds parents night out so that your children can enjoy their evening with friends and activities. Visit www.excitegymandcheer.com or call 972-874-9663 Flower Mound 972-874-8500 Highland Village for more information and reservations (Ages 3 - 11)
Frisco Tuesdays are Half Price Games - enjoy all midway games at half price! Wednesdays are Kids Eat Free (one free kid’s buffet* with the purchase of one adult buffet at regular price. *Kids 10 yrs. & under) www.gattitownfrisco.com Frisco Preschool programs available at First Choice Emergency Room. Attention Mom’s groups and Preschools....First Choice Emergency Room at 4851 Legacy Dr. #301 Frisco. Call 214-618-6800 to schedule your tour of the ER. Frisco Wiggly Play Center weekdays - Daily Activities are at 11:00 am. Mondays - Arts & Crafts, Tuesday - Hop with Henry, Wednesday - Story time, Thursday - Dancing with Dorothy, Friday - Wiggle with Wags. 4944 Preston Road, Suite 100 Frisco (469) 633-0676 www.wigglyplaycenter.com Grapevine 1st Wednesday of each month 4:30 p.m. Rainforest Cafe is hosting the Grapevine Mills Mall Kids Club storytime. Bring your family and friends to enjoy some great stories and eat dinner at Rainforest Cafe for Family Night. Contact 972-539-5001 for more information. No reservation required. www.rainforestcafe.com. Highland Village Acting Classes for Kids. Studio B is offering a wide range of acting classes for ages 3 and up. 1 Nelson Parkway at 2400 FM 407 in Highland Village. 972-966-2787. www.studiobtheater.info Irving JumpSTART Stories and Art. The Irving Arts Center and Irving Public Library now offer FREE family storytimes at the Arts Center on the first Thursday of every month (through December) at 10 a.m. Stories are followed by a fun craft. Call (972) 252-7558 x221 for more info. Little Elm Toddler time, Storytime, Chess Club, Family Story Time, Chidren’s Film Festival & Saturday Movie Matinees. Located in the Town Hall building at 100 W. Eldorado Pkwy 75068. Contact 214-975-0430 or visit www.littleelm.com to verify changes. McKinney Second Saturdays Downtown McKinney. ‘Second Saturdays’ is a celebration of the arts and the community with live entertainment, spirits, and food. McKinney McKinney Farmers’ Market, Every Saturday 8AM - 1PM. Downtown McKinney at the southeast corner of Church Street & Louisiana Street. Plano Story Times Plano Public Library System Schedules are available at any PPLS library or on our website www.planolibrary.org. Plano, Flower Mound, Hurst Boomerangs, First & Third Thursday of each month. We open one hour early to special needs families so parents can jump with their children. The cost will be half price for the children (parents are free) Please check website calendar or call for specific store hours. Plano: 214-473-9995, Flower Mound: 469-549-4400, Hurst 817-503-8100 www.boomerangspartyandplay.com Princeton Groove Kids, Every Sun & Wed. Absolutely free to kids newborn thru 6th grade - Groove Kids is
the place to be to have fun, hang out with Christian friends, enjoy Bible stories, cool music, and more! Every Sunday 10:45-12:00 and Wednesday 7-8 at Family Worship Center in Princeton, TX on Highway 380 @ Tickety Drive. (Call for directions 469.450.7437) www.groovekids.com
Southlake Kids Night at Chick-fil-A Southlake. Every Tuesday evening, Chick-fil-A Southlake offers free kids activities & loads of fun! 5:30-7:30pm at Chick-fil-A Southlake, 2301 E. Southlake Blvd., 817-481-7152. www.cfarestaurant.com/southlake/home Various Drama Kids International is designed to develop students speaking skills, presentation abilities, acting skills and confidence. We offer parent presentations, spring performances, spring break and summer camps and speech and drama trophies and awards. Visit our website www.dramakids. com or call 214.592.4066. www.dramakids.com Various Dallas / Fort Worth Cocker Spaniel Rescue Hosts special Meet & Greets scheduled in the area. www.dfwcares.org Various REGISTER TODAY for Kids First Ice Hockey Program. A totally FREE, get-acquainted program that offers boys and girls, ages 4-8, the opportunity to ‘try’ the game of hockey at NO CHARGE. (214) GO SKATE. www.drpepperstarcenter.com Various Meetup Group for the Entire FAMILY. This is a fun and exciting meetup group for couples and families to fulfill all of their social needs! groups. yahoo.com/group/familiesonthego Various Baylor Medical Centers provide ongoing classes in Irving, Frisco, Dallas, and Fort Worth. Classes include Baby Care Basics/Infant Safety and CPR, Prepared Childbirth Class, Infant/Child CPR, Car Seat Safety and SIDS Class, Breastfeeding Class, Sibling Class, Baby Care Basics, Cesarean Birth Class. 1-800-4-BAYLOR www.baylorhealth.edu
Support Groups Allen MOMS CLUB OF SE ALLEN - Are you a SAHM? Need some support, come join this welcoming group and get acquainted with great MOMS! We offer Playgroups, MNO’s, Monthly meetings and load of activities for you and your child. www.allenmoms.com Allen MOMS club of Allen - West. Fun group of stay at home moms offering support to each other and fun activities with our children. Weekly playgroups and events. Contact Michelle Suastegui at 214-383-3517 or email momsclub_allenwest@ yahoo.com. Allen Allen Early Childhood PTA. Meet the second Friday of every month from 9:30am to 11am during the school year at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 821 S. Greenville Ave. www.aecpta.com information@aecpta.com. Allen We are the MOMS Offering Moms Support Northeast Allen MOMS Club - Christy Youens at 469-675-6652 email momscluballenne@yahoo.com Arlington MOMS Club of North Central Arlington Open House ? Are you a SAHM living in Arlington between I-30 and Pioneer Pkwy? We offer activities for moms, kids, and families. E-mail: support.mom@hotmail.com or call Emily at (817)276-2589 www.momsclub.org Carrollton The Carrollton Early Childhood PTA is an organization dedicated to providing activities, support, friendships and education for parents of children age newborn through preschool. Please visit our website www.cecpta.org.
Collin County The Autism society of Collin County. Parent Support Group Meeting for Parents of Younger Children held the 2nd Tuesday of Each Month from 8:45 am - 9:45 am, and Monthly Parent Group and Support Meetings for Parents of Children of All Ages 3rd Tuesdays of Each Month from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm at Cafe’ de France (75 Central Expwy & Park in Plano) Visit www.autism-ascc. org or call 214-925-2722 Collin County The Collin County Moms Meetup group is a fun, down-to-earth group of moms dedicated to friendship and support. moms.meetup.com/994 Coppell/Valley Ranch The Coppell/Valley Ranch Early Childhood PTA (C/VR ECPTA) is a non-profit support organization for parents of infants and children age 5 and under. Meeting on the 2nd Monday of every month, 9:30am-11:00am at the Coppell Family YMCA, 146 Town Center Blvd., Coppell. Contact Info: Deby 214-234-8290 www.cvrecpta.org Dallas Dallas Dyslexia Information Group (DDIG) provides information on Dyslexia, Learning Differences, and related topics. This group meets at The Winston School, 5707 Royal Lane in Dallas, 75229 from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. on the second Monday of the month except for December. For information regarding the monthly speaker, call Bob 214-351-1985 or visit . Dallas Moms Club of Dallas: North Central Chapter boundaries are I-30 to the south, I-635 to the north (exception: Addison), Marsh Lane to the east, and Garland Road to the west. info@momsclubofdallas.org Dallas/Collin County Free Parent Helpline. Non-profit group Dallas Association for Parent Education runs a free telephone helpline for parents, grandparents, and caregivers called The Warmline. The Warmline phone hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 3pm. Warmline phone number is 972-699-7742. dallasparents@hotmail.com www. dallasparents.org Dallas/Plano/Frisco Far North Dallas Early Childhood PTA. We meet in Room 133 at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd. at Plano Parkway, and offer free childcare. www.fndecpta.txpta.org Denton The Denton Area Mothers of Multiples (DAMOM) is a support group located in North Texas for anyone who has, or is, expecting twins, triplets, quads or more! 2nd Thursday of every month from 7pm - 9pm at First Baptist Church of Denton, located at 1100 Malone Street Room 216. damoms.clubspaces.com/Default_css.aspx Farmers Branch My Place - Tuesdays & Fridays. It’s an early intervention play & communication group. North Texas Therapy & Associates (972) 385-0006. 14580 E. Beltwood Parkway; Farmers Branch 75244. Farmers Branch My Place - We have early intervention play & communication group classes on Mondays Thursdays (please contact us for times). North Texas Therapy & Associates (972) 385-0006. 14580 E. Beltwood Parkway; Farmers Branch 75244 www.northdallasspeech.com Frisco Frisco Cares Children’s Clinic is a low-cost health clinic for uninsured children, 18 and younger, living in or attending school in Frisco, Celina or Prosper. The Clinic is held at Primera Bautista Iglesia each Wednesday (September - April) located at 8581 5th Street, in Frisco. Appointment cards available at 5 PM. The doctor sees patients beginning at 6 PM. Cost per child is $5 to see the doctor. Medications are available at no cost. Proof of residency (utility bill) or proof of school enrollment (report card) is required. www.friscocares.org
Frisco Frisco Early Childhood PTA. Meet at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 8000 Eldorado Parkway, Frisco, 2nd friday of the month @ 10am. membership@friscoecpta.org www.friscoecpta.org Frisco The Early Childhood Intervention of LifePath Systems Inc. at 2611 Internet Pkwy, suite 107, Frisco. Texas Interagency Council on Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a statewide program for families with children, birth to 3, with disabilities and developmental delays. Call 972-377-7289. Garland Garland Area Early Childhood PTA. Meetings are held on the first Friday of each month, September through May, from 9:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at NorthLake Baptist Church, 1501 N. Country Club, Garland. 972-412-8540. www.earlychildhoodpta.com Lewisville The Greater Lewisville Special Education PTSA is an organization for parents, loved ones, and educators of children of all ages with special needs in the Greater Lewisville Area. Visit us at www.lisdseptsa.txpta.org or call (469) 293-6343 for more information. Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village Greater Lewisville Mothers & More 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7 pm Z Grill 2321 Cross Timbers Rd # 413 Flower Mound, TX 75028. www.mothersnmore.com. Little Elm The Little Elm Epilepsy Support Group meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month from 7:00-8:00pm at the Little Elm Public Library. Questions? Contact our facilitator, Tracy O’Mara at 972-987-4010.
McKinney DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids are programs offered regularly at McKinney Fellowship Bible Church. We meet Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m., room 107 of McKinney Fellowship Bible Church. $30 for the workbook, materials and snacks. Child care is provided. This is a nonLearn more about the programs at www.divorcecare.org, call 972-547-7000 to register. 2801 Orchid Drive, McKinney, TX 75070. www.mcfbc.org McKinney MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of McKinney Central. Visit us at www.geocities. com/mckinneymoms.com or contact us at mckinneymoms@yahoo.com McKinney La Leche League of McKinney. Meetings are held 3rd Thursdays at 5871 W Virginia Pkwy, 10:15am to 12pm. Dee Dee 972-838-9135, Holly 214-385-0063 or Ricki 214-684-3966. www.lllusa.org/web/McKinneyTX.html McKinney MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of McKinney East. For more info, e-mail momsmckinneyeast@yahoo.com and check out the International MOMS Club website at www.momsclub.org. McKinney Grandparents Raising Grandkids Support Group. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday every month from 7-8 pm at Academics Plus, 1831 W. Louisiana, McKinney, Tx. Contact us at 972-548-8788 for more information. www.academicsplus.com Murphy/Sachse MOMS Club of Murphy/Sachse if a non-profit support group for at home mothers living in the cities of Murphy/Sachse Texas. Contact us at murphy_sachse_moms@yahoo.com for additional information. North Coppell MOMs Club of Coppell - NORTH (boundaries are north of Sandy Lake to 121). Join us at Going Bonkers in Lewisville for our monthly meetings. We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 10AM. Please call us at 866.841.9139 ext. 3555 or send us an email at
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
39
momsclubofcoppell@onebox.com. Check out our Web site at www.momsclubofcoppell.org
Building III, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano, Texas 75075. www.safewithfoodallergies.com.
North Dallas Mocha Moms of North Dallas meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at the Douglass Community Center on Ave. H in Plano. www.mochamomsnorthdallas.com
Plano Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Parent Support Group. We welcome all parents coping with a child with SPD. We meet the first Monday of the month at various locations. Contact Christine at chavez.slp@gmail.com or Wendy at wlpark@sbcglobal.net for more information. www.spdnetwork.org/parentconnection/us.html
North Richland Hills Asperger’s Support Meeting. 1st Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Come join us! Please RSVP you and your child’s attendance by emailing events@featnt.org. Located FEAT-NT Resource Center and Library, 4239 Road to the Mall, North Richland Hills 76180 www.featnt.org. 817-849-1122. North Richland Hills Autism Support Meeting. 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Please RSVP you and your child’s attendance by emailing events@featnt.org. Located FEAT-NT Resource Center and Library, 4239 Road to the Mall, North Richland Hills 76180 www.featnt.org 817-849-1122. Plano The Scoliosis Center of Excellence at Medical Center of Plano is offering free diagnostic scoliosis screenings the first Wednesday of each month by appointment for children and adolescents up to 18 years of age. www.medicalcenterofplano.com or 1-877-24-SCOLI. www.medicalcenterofplano.com Plano S.A.F.E.(Support and Activities for Food allergy Education) classes help children learn more about food allergies, build self-esteem and confidence, and have fun with new friends who share a common bond. Classes are 15 dollars per child. For more information, www. safewithfoodallergies.com. Classes held at The Medical Center of Plano. Medical Office
Street, Room 105. Call Beth 972-747-1297, Cleo 972-208-0158, or Emilie 469-366-7205. www.lllusa.org/web/PlanoTX.html
Plano MOMS Club of Plano North Central chapter. Meeting the first Thursday of every month, at 9:30 AM, at the Atonement Lutheran Church on Legacy just west of Coit. For more information contact 214-473-4144. momsclubnc@yahoo.com
Plano Mothers and Others. Meet the second Tuesday of the month at 9:30 in the room 230 of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Activity Building. Call Trish Scogin 214-504-0640.
Plano MOMS Club of Plano-North. Monthly Social Meeting is the first Wednesday of every month, 10:00am, at the Baha’i Faith Plano Center, 4200 Hedgcoxe. Information:membership@momsclubplanonorth or 972-464-1958. www.momslubplanonorth.com
Plano The Plano/Collin County branch of the AAUW. Monthly meetings at the Davis Library, 7501 Independence Parkway, Plano the 2nd Monday of each month. Contact Carol at 972 862 3460 for more info. www.aauwplanocc.org
Plano MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of Plano Central Are you a stay at home mom living south of Spring Creek? Please join us for weekly playdates and monthly Mom’s night out! momsclubplano_central@yahoo.com
Plano CHILD & FAMILY Guidance Center. Contact our Plano Office at 4030 West Plano Parkway, Suite 211. 972.612.5989. www.childrenandfamilies.org
Plano Own my own mentoring program is a mentoring program for children with incarcerated parents sponsored by Dedicated Women of Christ. Contact Latahra Smith, 972-3778254
Plano Collin County Early Childhood PTA. Monthly meetings on the 2nd Monday of the month, 9:45 a.m., at Parkway Hills Baptist Church, located at 2700 Dallas Parkway, in Plano. Call Karen Maddox at 972-491-0260 Plano Plano Kiwanis Club meets each Wednesday for breakfast at 7:00 AM (always over by 8:00 AM) at La Madeleine Cafe, 5000 West Park Blvd at Preston Road. www.kiwanis.org/club/plano Plano La Leche League of Plano meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 10:30 to 11:45 am at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3601 West 15th
Plano Collin County Homeschool Playgroup. geocities.com/collincountyhomeschoolplaygroup Richardson La Leche League Of Richardson meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 7pm. Call Jayne 972-758-7236, Tiffany 972-234-5853 or Mary 972-907-9079,www.lllusa.org/web/RichardsonTX.html Richardson Post Partum Depression Support Group. Nonprofit group Dallas Association for Parent Education will hold a free, monthly Post Partum Depression Support Group at their office in
Richardson. This also offers network support for moms and families. To sign up or for more info call the DAPE office at 972-699-0420, Mon. - Fri., 9am - 3pm. dallasparents@hotmail.com www.dallasparents.org
Various RISE was organized “To help persons with physical challenges gain independence through a learning experience in adaptive outdoor adventures and sporting programs.” Visit www. riseadventures.org for available programs, contact Joel Hendrix at jhendrix@riseadventures.org 469-762-5075. Wylie Moms & More: We welcome all caregivers from Wylie and the surrounding communities. Our Monthly Convergence is held on the first Thursday of each month. Children are always welcome to all our activities. Drinks and snacks will be provided. For more information contact Diva@wyliemomsandmore.org or www.wyliemomsandmore.org
Submitting Events We welcome your submissions of familyoriented events. Events and support group listings should be submitted online at www. northtexaskids.com. Click on the submissions button on the left side bar. Please keep listings brief and in a similar format to what you see in our calendar. No more than two listings per organization will be accepted. Thank you for your participation in our community calendar. All events submitted online will appear on www.northtexaskids.com, www. momsoutloud.com and in print when received before the 15th of the month prior to our print date. For any questions, you may email our office at info@northtexaskids.com or give us a call at 972-516-9070.
Alexandria’s Book Review room: Wanda has drawn every dress
The Hundred Dresses
she described to the girls on the
schoolyard, and thus won the girls’
A Review by Alexandria Battle
drawing contest.
by Eleanor Estes 88 pages • Ages 9-12 • Sandpiper (April 17, 1974)
Read on to find out if Peggy
and Maddie manage to make up
with Wanda, as well as to see with your own eyes how wonderful
This month for my book review,
I’ve chosen one of the most heartfelt
books I can remember reading when
I was very young: The Hundred
Dresses. I chose this book over another of Eleanor Estes’s classics, Ginger Pye, because The Hundred Dresses has a deeper message that is easier to see.
Eleanor Estes, who grew up
in Connecticut, was an assistant in a children’s library until she contracted a sickness that kept her
home, writing memories of her life as a child. Through these, she wrote 40
books like The Moffats and many
unnoticeably absent, Maddie dwells
The Hundred Dresses has two main
girl was treated, and all because she
introduced solely through memory;
have one hundred dresses. Not only
and memories we see throughout
who started the teasing, to end it,
Maddie notices Wanda’s absence
up herself to defend Wanda against
that it may be due to the teasing of
When Room 13’s class has
other stories.
guiltily on how ruthlessly the Polish
characters: Wanda Petronski, who is
tried to fit in one day by claiming to
and Maddie, the girl whose feelings
does Maddie want to ask Peggy,
the tale. Over the course of the story
she also wishes that she had stepped
from school and Room 13 and notices
everyone else.
the other girls in her class—one of
a drawing contest for boys and
Peggy.
surprised to see one hundred of the
them being her popular best friend,
girls, both Peggy and Maddie are
As Wanda continues to remain
winner’s drawings around the entire
North Texas Kids • February 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
the hundred dresses are. I also
recommend Eleanor Estes’s Ginger Pye and Pinky Pye, its sequel.
Index of Advertisers 280 Toys 14
It’s a Sensory World
19
Pump It Up Jr.
11
A Child Safe Home
19
J’s Art Studio
20
Rainforest Cafe
9
Adventure Kids Playcare
29
Jewish Comminity Center
22
Revelation Dance
Angels of Care Pediatric
2
Jump Town
13
Rich Educational Consulting
19
Aqua Fit Swim & Wellness
19, 21
Jump Zone
14
Robots 4 U
24
Art A Rama
11, 21
Key Note Music Studio
22
Rockwall Indoor Sports Expo
34
Baylor, Our Children’s House
31
KidsCare Therapy
15
Rover Dreamworks
23
Behavioral Innovations
42
Kids Shuttle ASAP
22
Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch
24
Boomerangs
17
Kreative Kids Partyz
23
Smashing Times
BounceU
8, 22
Learning RX
22, 42
13
20, 27
SMU
23
32
SoccerTots
32
27
Southlake Gymnastics Academy
14
Bright Women
15
Lil’ Trax Sports Academy (PSA)
Butterfly Princess Glamour
17
Lorie Burch, Attorney
C & R Medical
18
Mad Science
25
Speaker Coop
36
Canyons Rock Climbing
24
Made of Sugar & Spice
11
Spectacular Cakes
11
Capricorn Equestrian
23
Main Event
7
Speech TX
15
Champion Cheer Allstars
14
Marc Robins Photography
44
Spicar’s Martial Arts
20
Child Play Music
20
March for Respect
42
Sports Fundamentals
24
Color Me Mine
20
Mathnasium
25
SS Noah
7
Congregation Anshai Torah
25
McDonald’s - O’Reillys
43
St. Marks
25
Custom Sports Products
34
MMKLife.com
15
State Farm Insurance
28
Dallas Kids Expo
43
Moffat Enterprises
25
Studio 3 Dance
22
Dallas Summer Musicals
21
Monkey Business
11
Sunshine Glaze
12
Dallas Symphony
29
Museum of American Railroad
7
Sweet & Sassy
DigiKids
18
Museum of Nature & Science
3
Tatu’s All Star
21
Dr Pepper StarCenter
6
Music Together
14, 24
Temple Shalom
23
Drama Kids International
21
NexGym
10, 20
The Artist Within
22
Dynamic Therapy
25
Noah’s Ark Animal Workshop
12, 21
The Eisemann Center
43
Eagle Gymnastics
20
North Texas Kids May Expo
Eagle Martial Arts
24
Paige’s Swim School
33
The Purple Cow
14
6
Paint Yer Pottery
10
The Reading Ranch
18
Evelyn’s Janitorial
30
Party Angels
12
The Wiggly Play Center
13
Excite Gym & Cheer
17
Planet Pizza
11
Therapy 2000
Family e-Guide
17
Plano Baseball Association
34
Under the Umbrella
Frisco Athletic Network
21
Plano Sports Authority
Fun Times Party Rental
6
Gattitown Gray School of Music
ER Centers of America
Guy Mezger’s Combat
3, 44
23, 33
The Keller Pointe
9
12, 24
US Toy Company
6 25 8
Planting Seeds Christian Counseling 15
Water Angels / Aqua Fit
15
22
PowerKids
34
Words R Me
18
23
Prestonwood Christian Academy
23
Work at Home United
15
12, 21
Princess & Pirates Dress Up Parties
12
YMCA Metro Dallas
24
Healthy Texan Pediatrics
30
Prosper Party Place
14
Heard Natural Science Museum
20
Prospering Farms
24
Please tell our advertisers you saw them in North Texas Kids! Find links to all of these businesses on our website at www.northtexaskids.com North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
41
Join the hottest classes in town! t )JQ )PQ t +B[[ t #SFBLEBODJOH t #BMMFU t -ZSJDBM t ,JDLCPYJOH t $BSEJP )JQ )PQ t 1JMBUFT t :PHB t ,JDLCPYJOH "FSPCJDT
Try any class for free! 972-596-1400 www.RevelationDanceStudio.net Park School of Martial Arts at Revelation Dance Aikido & Kajukembo Classes Family plan discount www.kajukemboplus.com 2001 Coit Rd. Suite 210 (NW corner of Park/Coit) Plano, Texas 75075 42
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
8_hj^ZWo FWhjo <kd M[ Ze _j Wbb \eh oek" ie h[bWn [d`eo
+ tax
for up to 10 children $6.10 for each additional child
7bb[d CYA_dd[o FbWde H_Y^WhZied
FWhjo _dYbkZ[i0 Happy Meal , Cake, Ice Cream, Decorations, ®
Party Favors, a Host or Hostess and a Gift for the Birthday Child.
Je cWa[ h[i[hlWj_edi0 Visit www.OreillyMCD.com or call our birthday party hotline at 972.985.9285.
Dem 7lW_bWXb[ - ZWoi W m[[a De Z[fei_j h[gk_h[Z$ Locally owned and operated by Chuck and Julie O’Reilly
★ Information Sessions ★ Special Appearances ★ Entertainment ★ Activities
March 21-22, 10am-6pm Dallas Market Hall – North Hall
FUN for the WHOLE family! Admission: $7 Kids 12 and under get in free with donated canned good item.
Find
sexpo.com
w.dallaskid w w t a n o ti a rm fo in out more
North Texas Kids • March 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com
43
Inside Grapevine Mills Mall Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 12pm to 5pm FREE Family Expo beneďŹ ting the programs of
Face Painting s Games s Arts & Crafts s Door prizes s Goodie Bags
Vendors Wanted! Sign up online today. Visit www.northtexaskids.com/expo Call 972-516-9070 Email info@northtexaskids.com
The expo is free to attend but we invite you to bring new school supplies with you to benefit the programs of Communities in Schools of North Texas. Construction paper, crayons, pens, pencils, notebook paper or composition books are all examples of what to bring.