North Texas Kids April 2009 by North Texas Kids

North Texas Your Family Guide to Raising Happy, Healthy Kids

Jessica, 3rd grade

In this issue: Brain Games / Study Skills / Improving Reading Skills / Summer Camps / North Texas Kids Expo / April Calendar of Events

April 2009

FREE

www.northtexaskids.com

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Contents l

April

Volume 7 No. 4

8 10 14

16 35

How Can I Help My Child Learn to Read?

Emma's Kid-Friendly Restaurant Review

Environment Fun Trivia Questions

Early Learners: Building a Better Brain

Summer Camps 2009

School Word Fun

Family Resource Guide

Treasures from the Earth: Diamonds, Gold & Dinos

Craft: Coffee Filter Butterflies

Spring Frog Jokes

What you need to know about Autism

Community Expo

Focus on our Advertisers

Kids in the Kitchen: Bunny Cupcakes

April Calendar of Events

Soccer Word Scramble

Alexandria’s Book Review

Index of Advertisers

Charlie McKinney's Little Heroes Baseball

Sports & Fitness Programs

Coaching Emotional Intelligence in Preschoolers

Real Life Super Nanny

The Silent Grade Killers

Tutoring & Educational Services Chart

Earth Day TIps

Effects of TAKS

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Get to know: Rick Pfeil of Blue Sky Landscaping

Note from the Publisher

Minette Riordan, Ph.D.

Teaching Our Children Should Be a Priority I will not get on my soap box about why I think the TAKS test is not healthy for our children, although I could spend this entire column complaining about the stress it puts on our children and our teachers and how it stifles creativity for both the child and the teacher. Instead, let me put a positive spin on teaching and children. As parents, it is ultimately our responsibility to teach our children what they need to know about life. We rely on teachers and professionals to teach them to read, to teach them math, geography, science, and all the many other subjects they learn in school. But as parents, it is our job to reinforce what they are learning at school. Learning doesn't stop when our children walk out the front door of school, even though your children will try to convince you otherwise. Education is a life-long process that extends well beyond the confines of a classroom. It is our job to help children maximize their learning through practice, repetition, and modeling. If we don't read books, if we don't explore new subjects and talk to our children about what excites us, how will they learn to do the same? Children learn more from seeing what we do and how we interact with other adults and with them than from a text book. There are lots of opportunities for outdoor learning this month, with the Live Green expo in Plano, the new exhibits at the Museum of

Nature and Science and the Heard Museum. Earth Day is on April 22 this year, go outside and explore something new with your family. Learning can cleverly be disguised as fun! Check out the article from LearningRx on computer-based Brain Games and help your children build their cognitive skills with some fun games. Read the article on The Silent Grade Killer for some great ideas on how to improve study skills, this is another area where parent help and encouragement is critical. Our teachers have their hands full teaching our kids; it is up to us to teach them good habits at home. April is a busy month, it is also Autism Awareness month and Counseling Awareness month. We are truly blessed in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex to have access to so many resources and individuals who can help us help our children. Parenting is a challenging job and we hope North Texas Kids is a useful resource that can guide you toward the right person or organization to solve your challenges. If there is something you are looking for and you don't find it in these pages, don't hesitate to send me an email and I will do whatever I can to help you out! I am writing this from beautiful Santa Barbara, California where my brother is getting married in a few days. What a treat to be so near the ocean for an entire week.

We will take full advantage of the amazing scenery and educational opportunities. Yesterday we sat in awe watching a gray whale breach in the harbor. This morning my kids went off with their grandparents searching for sea shells and skate casings (shark eggs) on the beach. They came back full of stories and adventures, having seen cliff swallows, more whales, porpoise and lots of sand fleas. It is difficult not to appreciate the earth's bounty and to want to take care of it sitting here near the ocean. It is harder to remember our responsibility to the environment and that we are responsible for educating our kids that they have to take care of the earth when we live in the city and our biggest wildlife encounter is the neighborhood coyote or the brown bear at the Ft. Worth Zoo. One local business owner, Rick Pfeil, decided to take his commitment one step further than recycling and he has launched an eco-friendly lawn maintenance company. Read about him and his vision in our "Get to Know" column this month. I'll see ya'll back in Texas, just in time to start planning for Summer Camps, there sure are a lot to choose from!

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

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

Happy reading,

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... Jessica Jessica is in 3rd grade at Bennett Elementary in McKinney, TX. She loves gymnastics and is taking lessons at TumbleBugs in Mckinney. In addition, she plays on recreational volleyball teams at McKinney Sports Connection and PSA in Plano. In the last year, she has started taking violin lessons after two years of piano lessons. Jess loves art projects and anything involving her creativity. She writes great stories, loves to read and talks about someday becoming an architect - or a professional volleyball player - or a gymnast.

Your child will receive $50 when we use his/her artwork 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 story in the paper. Submissions may be digital or print. Email pictures to info@northtexaskids.com or mail them to Scissortail Publishing, LLC. 700 E. Park Blvd., Suite 110, Plano, Texas 75074. North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

4HERAPY 2000 4HE .ORTH 4EXAS LEADER IN HOME BASED THERAPY FOR CHILDREN

How Much Do You Know About Your Environment? Sponsored by Blue Sky Landscaping

Which are the more energy-conserving lightbulbs: incandescent or compact flourescent? Answer: Compact Flourescent

Which is more energy efficient an electric or gas range?

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Answer: Gas

Is it more energy efficient to produce paper by recycling than by making new paper from trees? Recycling paper uses 64% less energy because it has already been processed and bleached.

What percentage of US rivers originates in national forests? Answer: 80%

What percentage of modern medical drugs originated in rainforests? Answer: rainforests? 25%

Name three energy resources that are not dependent on fossil fuels? Answer: Geothermal, Solar, Wind

Which appliance in your home uses the most electricity? Answer: Refrigerator

Which uses less water: a bath or a shower?

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Answer: Shower

The most efficient modern windmills capture what maximum percentage of the winds kinetic energy? Answer: 45%

The world tropical rainforests produce what percentage of the total oxygen in Earths atmosphere? Answer: 40%

Which national park is the most threatened by air pollution? Answer: Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee

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North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

How can I help my child

read?

How Can I Help My Child Be Ready to Read and Ready to Learn? Talk to your infant and toddler to help him learn to speak and *understand the meaning of words. Point to objects that are near and describe them as you play and do daily activities together. Having a large vocabulary gives a child a great start when he enters school. Read to your baby every day starting at six months of age. Reading *and playing with books is a wonderful way to spend special time with her.

Hearing words over and over helps her become familiar with them. Reading to your baby is one of the best ways to help her learn.

sounds, songs, gestures and words that rhyme to help your baby *learnUse about language and its many uses. Babies need to hear language from a human being. Television is just noise to a baby.

out the printed words in your home and other places you take your *childPoint such as the grocery store. Spend as much time listening to your child as you do talking to him.

children's books and writing materials with you whenever you *leaveTake home. This gives your child fun activities to entertain and occupy him while traveling and going to the doctor's office or other appointments.

Create a quiet, special place in your home for your child to read, write *and draw. Keep books and other reading materials where your child can easily reach them.

your child see that reading is important. Set a good example for *yourHelp child by reading books, newspapers and magazines. Limit the amount and type of television you and your child watch. Better *yet, turn off the television and spend more time cuddling and reading books

with your child. The time and attention you give your child has many benefits beyond helping him be ready for success in school.

Reach out to libraries and community and faith-based organizations. These organizations can: • Help you find age-appropriate books to use at home with yourchild; • Show you creative ways to use books with your child and other tips to help her learn; and • Provide year-round children's reading and educational activities.

Simple Strategies for Creating Strong Readers... Without doubt, reading with children spells success for early literacy. Putting a few simple strategies into action will make a significant difference in helping children develop into good readers and writers. 8

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Through reading aloud, providing print materials, and promoting *positive attitudes about reading and writing, you can have a powerful impact on children's literacy and learning.

* Invite a child to read with you every day. When reading a book where the print is large, point word by word as *you read. This will help the child learn that reading goes from left to right and understand that the word he or she says is the word he or she sees.

* Read a child's favorite book over and over again. many stories with rhyming words and lines that repeat. Invite the *childRead to join in on these parts. Point, word by word, as he or she reads along with you.

new words. For example, "This big house is called a palace. Who *do youDiscuss think lives in a palace?"

* Stop and ask about the pictures and about what is happening in the story. Read from a variety of children's books, including fairy tales, song books, *poems, and information books. well is at the heart of all learning. Children who can't read well, *can't Reading learn. Help make a difference for a child. U.S. Department of Education, Office of Intergovernmental and Interagency Affairs, Educational Partnerships and Family Involvement Unit, Reading Tips for Parents, Washington, D.C., 2003.

b_ _k_ re _ _ i _ g le _ r _

s_ _r y sc _ o _ l p_ _m books, reading, learn, story, school, poem

Did you know? April is counseling awareness month. • More than 600,000 professional counselors

are working in education (schools and colleges),

mental health, community agency, private practice

and related human service settings across the nation.

(Source: US Department of Labor)

• Counselors address a variety of human growth and

development issues and problems of people at all life stages,

from childhood through the senior years.

• Counselors are a vital member of the cadre of professional

human service providers working alongside psychologists,

psychiatrists, social workers and other helping professionals.

Contact a counselor from your community!

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Visit some of the sites below and bookmark your favorites for faster access. Just be sure to hit the refresh button as some of the sites update regularly.

Online brain games for kids: Looking for a great way to build your child’s cognitive skills? Check out these fun online brain games. From math and reading games to puzzles that build logic and reasoning, memory and comprehension, there’s something for every interest and age group.

Building a Better Brain – one Web site at a time

for the Brain – www.gamesforthebrain.com 2 Games If your kid loves games, this is one of the best sites on the Web. From

Mahjongg Solitaire and Chinese Checkers to trivia games and crime scene scenarios, there’s a wide variety to choose from.

by Debby Romick You’ve heard the worries about young children and too much television, but what about the Internet? According to a recent study funded by the National Science Foundation and the Kaiser Foundation, children use computers at very young ages – 21 percent of children 2 years and younger; 58 percent of 3- to 4-year-olds; and 77 percent of 5- to 6-year-olds. And while the World Wide Web can be a scary place when it comes to letting your kids roam, now there’s evidence that some Web sites can actually help build a better brain in your early learner. The key is to know where to go – and why.

Why “brain boosting” Web sites can help “The root of learning – whether it be reading, math or even writing - is good cognitive skills,” explains Debby Romick, Director of Training for LearningRx, a ‘brain training’ franchise. “Things like auditory and visual processing, memory, processing speed, comprehension, short- and long-term memory, logic and reasoning, and attention are the underlying tools that enable kids to successfully focus, think, prioritize, plan, understand, visualize, remember and create useful associations, and solve problems.” According to Romick, any weak cognitive skill – or a combination of several – can lead to a learning disability. By identifying a weak cognitive skill early, parents can help prevent learning disabilities – even before a child attends kindergarten. “For example, there are very promising studies that show a 90 percent decrease in reading problems if children are first introduced to sound analysis activities,” she says. “This might include things like rhyming or playing sound games when children learn how to add or omit sounds in a syllable.” Dr. Ken Gibson, author of “Unlock the Einstein Inside: Applying New Brain Science to Wake up the Smart in your Child,” agrees. “Brain-boosting games can help children build cognitive skills, which can in turn help them advance in all subjects,” says Dr. Gibson. “A child who has Attention Deficit Disorder, for example, would be best served playing games that focus on the three types of attention – sustained, selective and divided. While a child who struggles with numerical concepts, such as basic addition, might see great improvement by playing games that focus on math computations, numerical fluency and mental math.” Of course, there’s no need to censor which games your children play, as long as they’re appropriate for their age level. Even strong readers can have fun playing word games and your little math whiz can only get better playing numbers games. 10

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

DANA – www.dana.org This private philanthropic foundation focuses on science, health and education. The “Brainy Kids Online” section offers games and activities, as well as a “virtual lab” to help your child learn more about the human brain.

Brain – www.funbrain.com 3 Fun This colorful site allows you to search games by grade or just browse by

subject. There are Web books and comics, movies, classic fun brain games (grammar, math, reading), and bold graphics and mainstream cartoon characters (like “The Incredibles”) to keep kids interested.

– www.education.kaboose.com/tutoring/brain-index.html 4 Kaboose The tutoring section of this Web site offers educational games for kids, as well as word puzzles, language builders, online stories, online musical games and mazes.

– www.learningrx.com 5 LearningRx This Web site for Colorado Springs-based LearningRx, a national “brain-

training” franchise, offers free downloadable copies of Think Magazine and LearningRx Magazine that contain fun brain-building games to take on the road or just use at home.

– www.bath.com/students/puzzles/puzzleapps.html 6 Math.com “A world of math online.” Games including Peg Solitaire, a maze generator, and other math-based games.

Discovery Education – www.school.discoveryeducation.com/brainboosters Brain Boosters are broken down by category: lateral thinking, logic, reasoning, spatial awareness, number and math play, categorization, and word and letter play.

Sites – www.KidsSites.com 8 Kids A clearinghouse of Websites that includes a section of games for younger kids.

Math 4 Kids – www.coolmath4kids.com 9 Cool Touting itself as “an amusement park of math and more,” this site offers math games, brain benders, math problems, a math dictionary, times tables and more.

Debby Romick, LearningRx Center Director and Cognitive Training Expert, has been in the field of education for over 20 years in the Dallas area. Questions regarding additional Brain Activities or to discuss your child’s needs, she may be contacted at dromick@learninggateways. com or at 972-267-8900. Additional information can be found at www.learningrx.com.

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lll#gZaVn[dga^[Z#dg\$cdgi]YVaaVhim Help us raise money to reach those helped by the American Cancer Society as we stuff-n-ﬂuff these happy and loving animals from Noah’s Ark Animal Workshops. After your animal is hand stuffed, you’ll make a special wish on your rainbow wishing star, we’ll put it inside your animal and then you’ll receive a birth certiﬁcate with your new animals name that you pick out. Each animal then gets its Relay For Life pin and is now ready to join the walk with you!

Market your

summer camps to

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972-516-9070 for details today!

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972-267-8900 Conveniently located near George Bush & Tollway North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Earthday

Butterfly Fun...

FREE ENTREE

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Coffee Filter Butterflies Celebrate Earth Day by creating a floating butterfly out of a coffee filter.

Supplies needed

½ black chenille stem

Paper coffee filter

Water color paints

Paint brush

Water

String

Instructions

1. Flatten the coffee filter and place it on a plate or newspaper. 2. Using the water color paints, decorate the coffee filter. Let it dry.

3. Fold the coffee filter accordion style – an adult can help if needed. 4. Wrap the chenille stem around the center of the folded coffee filter.

5. Bend the tips of the chenille stems over to create the antennae. 6. Fan out the butterfly wings. 7. Hang in the window with string and watch your butterfly fly! Thank you to Kaboose Inc. Funschool for this great craft. Please visit their awesome website at http://funschool.kaboose.com/ for other super fun activities!

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Last Month was so much fun, I've hopped back this month for some morE!!!

Spring Frog Jokes... 1. Why are frogs so happy? They eat whatever bugs them!

2. What's green and jumps? A frog! (he he he)

3. What's black, white & green? A frog sitting on a newspaper. 13

4. What's green green green green green? A frog rolling down the hill.

4. What's a frog with a broken Leg? Unhoppy.

www.allaboutfrogs.org

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Experience the Heard’s New Sparkling Exhibit!

Treasures from the Earth

Diamonds, Gold and Dinos

Beginning April 3, 2009 the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary will present Treasures from the Earth, a new exhibit featuring an exotic collection of diamonds, gems, precious metals, rare minerals, pearls and fossils. Many of these specimens are on loan from exclusive collectors and some have never been exhibited in public, making the Heard’s newly renovated exhibit space the perfect place for their debut. Treasures from the Earth includes a vault where the public will have the opportunity to view some of the largest uncut diamonds (up to ten carats) ever found in the United States from the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas. 14

In addition, the vault features dendritic gold, large birthstones and a silver ingot recovered from the Spanish galleon, Nuestra Señora de Atocha, which sunk off the Florida Keys in 1622. A series of walk-through galleries describe the formation of these striking specimens as well as highlight their functions in our daily lives. Throughout the exhibit there are exciting and educational displays tailored for adults and children of all ages. Not to be missed are our Children’s Activity Area, which includes Panning for Pyrite and our new interactive Observation Station where children can share and exchange information and

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

observations about objects found in the natural world. A wide variety of unique, never-before-seen fossils including a dinosaur nest and a T-Rex skull, are featured next to our popular walk-through Mosasaur. Your trip to the Heard to view Treasures from the Earth is also the perfect time to register your kids for Heard Summer Nature Camps. Summer Nature Camps at the Heard offer exciting nature experiences for kids ages 5 through 16. From our wetlands, to our prairies, to our old growth forest, you never know what adventures they will have on our beautiful 289-acre wildlife sanctuary. Summer is a great time to give your child some of these wonderful experiences first-hand, and the Heard is offering our traditional summer camps as well as

three new ones. Two Heard Summer Nature Camps will even feature the opportunity to participate in the Heard Ropes Course! No matter what your family’s interests, the Heard Museum has something for everyone including our Animals of the World exhibit featuring non-native mammals as well as our collection of native Texas reptiles and amphibians. Enjoy the beauty of the native plant garden and a 289-acre wildlife sanctuary with more than seven miles of nature trails. Visit the Heard Museum for fun education and exploration!

Collections for Treasures from the Earth provided by “The Arkenstone” and Jim & Michele Houran.

Emma’s Kid Friendly Restaurant Review

Pei Wei

601 West 15th Street • Plano, TX 75075 • (972) 202-5380 Other locations throughout Allen, McKinney, Frisco,

Garland, Carrollton, Lewisville, Addison, and Dallas.

by Emma Bonin This time I went to dinner with my friend Emma Roha and her family. Emma and I have a lot in common including the same middle name (Noel) and the same soccer team (The Blaze). Pei Wei is a restaurant with different types of Asian food. The kitchen is right behind where you order, so you can see them cooking with the fire shooting up off the grill. Emma ordered the honey seared chicken with steamed rice, which she liked a lot. I had the lo mein noodles with chicken. It was delicious. Emma’s mom had the lettuce wraps, which had minced chicken, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and scallions that she wrapped in lettuce. She said it was really good. Emma’s dad had the spicy chicken salad.

This includes wok seared chicken, assorted lettuce and cabbage, vegetables, rice sticks, tomato and lime vinaigrette. He ate every bite! We enjoyed our visit and the great food. I’ll definitely go back with my family. You should try it, too. It’s also great for take out. We visited the Pei Wei on 15th near Highway 75 in Plano. There are many locations in the area including Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Garland, Carrollton, Lewisville, Addison, and Dallas. So it should be easy to find a restaurant near you! 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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Over the past decade, awareness of autism has reached a fever pitch.

Although this awareness is needed, it can bring with it much confusionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially for the parents of young children who are constantly exposed

to media coverage and new research studies about the condition. So how

can parents process this information without becoming alarmed or overly concerned? Or more importantly, if their child is diagnosed with Autism, where can they turn for help?

First, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to know that when a child displays signs and

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symptoms of autism, it is possible for them to have one of several

potential diagnoses including Autism, Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). There has been speculation in the media about the different signs of Autism and the

age at which they can present, but it should be noted that while a child can display behavior commonly associated with these conditions, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily mean they have it.

The early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) include various severity levels of: â&#x20AC;˘ impaired language â&#x20AC;˘ behaviorial tendancies such as limited eye contact

â&#x20AC;˘ repetitive actions including hand flapping or hyper focused visual attention

â&#x20AC;˘ social skills deficits such as inappropriate behavior, poor relationships, inability to deal with transitions and environmental changes

â&#x20AC;˘ marked impairments in daily functioning at home, school, and in the community Given that that any of these deficits are possible without meeting criteria

for an ASD, it is important that trained professionals guide the process of

diagnosis. Careful consideration and thorough evaluation are needed prior to making the statement that a child meets criteria for an ASD, as this is a lifelong disability that will impact all areas of daily functioning.

In order to be diagnosed with an ASD, a child must undergo a

comprehensive assessment including evaluation of intellectual, language, social/behavioral, and adaptive skills. Additionally, evaluations explore

other criteria like assessment of sensory processing, fine motor and visual perceptual skills, gross motor abilities, and neurocognitive profiles and learning styles.

In order to fully assess all of these areas, multiple professionals are

needed. Fortunately, families here in North Texas have access to specialized 16

North Texas Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; April 2009â&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; www.NorthTexasKids.com

clinics made up of highly-trained specialists at Our Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House at Baylor (OCH). With nine outpatient clinics located throughout the

Our Heart is in Caring for You!

Metroplex, OCH staffs professionals in every discipline needed to manage the diagnosis and treatment of ASD: Neuropsychology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

Although it is possible for a neuropsychologist/psychologist to assess

for and diagnose ASDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s alone, it is always best to have insight from experts in other therapy disciplines. The multidisciplinary teams at OCH not only

handle the diagnosis process, but provide ongoing support for children and families in treatment.

Finally, parents should know that simply stating that a child has a

diagnosis on the autism spectrum is not nearly descriptive enough to allow

parents, teachers, therapists, family, and friends to conceptualize the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Specializing in Pediatric Home Healthcare

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Now hiring for RN/LVN Full Time & Part Time positions specific jobs are posted on www.epicmedstaff.com

abilities and needs. Each child is different. Assessments should be driven

by a focus on interventions, access to appropriate therapy techniques, social

support and family training resources, educational planning, and vocational and career placement. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why facilities like OCH seek to provide the

highest quality of care to the child regardless of the diagnosis. This includes

Meet Max & Joey Buddy Detectives!

addressing the direct needs of the child and areas of concern for the family,

Great new book for young readers who love a good mystery!

children diagnosed with an ASD should seek to educate doctors, parents,

Written by local author Glo Jenkins Brown

school, and community agencies serving the family. Those who work with and school staff that it is never too early to intervene, that there is no such

thing as too thorough of an assessment, and that each child with an ASD is special and should be treated as such.

For more information about Our Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House at Baylor, visit www.BaylorHealth. com/OurChildrensHouse or call 1-800-4BAYLOR.

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!

Kids in the kitchen

Super Cute Easter Bunny Cupcakes

A gym for children ages 12 months -12 years

You don't have to grow a garden like Mr. McGregor's to have a family of rabbits show up at your house on Easter -- or any other time.

13617 Neutron Rd. Farmers Branch, TX 75244 972-239-8100

Ingredients: A cupcake (baked from your favorite recipe) White icing Shredded coconut Pink decorators' sugar Jelly bean nose

www.itsasensoryworld.com Check website for upcoming summer camp schedule Venue for home treatment PT/OT programsâ&#x20AC;˘ Preschool preparation classes for children with special needs â&#x20AC;˘ Staff-guided/parent-guided sensory circuitâ&#x20AC;˘Tutoring Licensed PlayWisely locationâ&#x20AC;˘ Small group classes

Chewable Sweet Tart eyes Large marshmallow

Making the bunnies..

Mini marshmallows

1. Frost a cupcake (baked from your favorite recipe) with white icing and sprinkle on shredded coconut fur. 2. Cut a large marshmallow in half widthwise. Squeeze each half slightly to give it an oval shape, then decorate the sticky side of each one with pink decorators' sugar and set them in place for ears. 3. Add a jelly bean nose and either jelly bean or snipped Sweet Tart eyes, and mini marshmallows for cheeks. For a finishing touch, draw on decorators' gel pupils or whiskers if you like.

Thanks to www.FamilyFun.com for this super cute & yummy idea... please visit this site for many other great recipes!

Would you like a fresh perspective on your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Academic progress? Does your child need a boost with academic skills or social skills acquisition?

Social Thinking Classes Now Available

New groups are forming every month Ages Pre-school through High School, Se Habla espaĂąol Individualized and comprehensive assessments: Reading Skills and Comprehension, Dyslexia, Language Processing, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Sensory Integration. Visit our website for other services.

Rich Educational Consulting

Where the Only Limitation is the Imagination! Locations in Dallas, Collin and Denton Counties 972-447-8390 c www.richeducationalconsulting.com

North Texas Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; April 2009â&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; www.NorthTexasKids.com

17â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Benefiting the Programs of Saturday, May 2 from 10am to 5pm A FREE fun-filled day of entertainment, education and information for the entire family Inside Grapevine Mills Mall

Face Painting • Games • Arts & Crafts • Door Prizes • Goodie Bags About Communities In Schools... Communities In Schools of North Texas Celebrates 15 Years of Successes It Started in the Community, NOW The Community is in School! In 1994, a handful of concerned community members had a shared vision. They saw a need for the community to rally around children and youth with a strong probability of dropping out of school. The Texas Education Agency term for these children is “at-risk”. The good news is that the solution exists among us. 15 years later, Communities In Schools of North Texas is one of the fastest growing non-profit organizations north Texas and has become the leader in school-based dropout prevention services in Denton and Wise counties. Today, Communities In Schools of North Texas provides over 180,000 services to more than 2,250 students. Across the state, along with Communities In Schools of North Texas, 27 other Communities In Schools programs serve 90,000 at-risk students. Sadly though, this represents only 3% of Texas’ at-risk student population. Remarkably, Communities In Schools dropout prevention programs have an effectiveness rate of over 90% helping at-risk students promote to the next grade level. “Dropping out of schools is a process, not an event”, often says Gary Henderson, Communities In Schools of North Texas CEO. “We didn’t originate that saying, but we believe in it deeply. No child simply decides one day to leave school, they experience set back after set back, both in school and at home that over time robs them of their dreams and eventually the life they could have enjoyed.” Communities In Schools of North Texas works to break down these setbacks so that a child can graduate from school and succeed in life.

Watch our website, www.NorthTexasKids.com, for updated schedules and specific times of presentations and entertainment! 18

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Coaching Emotional Intelligence in Preschoolers By Caron Goode The preschool years are an exciting time for both children and parents. It is the time when children pass through babyhood and enter childhood. During their third and fourth years, children enjoy a great deal of social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. They become stronger and more in control of their bodies, emotions, and environment. It is in this stage that many pieces of the puzzle start to fall into place, and parents begin to catch glimpses of the person their child is becoming. Emotions

Between the ages of three and four, children experience tremendous emotional growth. It is in this stage that children begin to understand and label feelings. They understand on a basic level what causes certain feelings, and will offer simple help to those in distress. When a playmate cries or becomes angry, a child may offer a hug or share a special toy. It is important that parents recognize and encourage this emphatic behavior. This will help children develop compassion. It will also help them learn to identify emotions in themselves and in others. For a preschooler, learning to identify emotions is the first step towards learning how to manage them. When a child can correctly label feelings, he is better able to express himself and his needs. Parents can help children develop this valuable skill through play. Mirror games, face cards, and play acting are all great ways to help children identify their emotions. Reading and storytelling can also be very helpful. Describing why a favorite character feels a certain way is fun and lets children practice expressing emotions. As preschoolers begin to identify their emotions, there is a notable shift in how they handle themselves. Tantrums, while still present especially during times of stress, become fewer and farther between. This makes it a great time to teach them how to soothe and comfort themselves. Instructing children to use touch or a simple phrase can go a long way in helping them manage anxiety and stress. A mother may place her hand on her heart and then on her child’s to let him know that this is the place where she is always with him. Then throughout the day when he needs reassuring, all he needs to do is touch that place to feel comforted. The same goes for words. For instance, if he suffers separation anxiety repeating the phrase “Daddy will be back” will remind him that all is well, and his father will return. Friendship

Friendships are very important in the preschool years. Once children begin to understand emotions and their connection to other people, they begin to establish friendships. For three and four year-olds, friendship begins by showing interest in other children and mimicking them. While these children long for playmates, they are just learning the social skills necessary to friendship. Social skills are learned through practice. Therefore, it is important that parents arrange regular playtime for their children. If a child does not attend daycare or preschool, make play dates or join a playgroup. At three, children may feel more comfortable having a parent present while they play and often turn to them for help with social skills. By the age of four, children are better at reading their playmates emotions. This allows them to formulate their own solutions, which, in turn, makes them less dependent on parental interference. Fears

Preschoolers often experience a great many fears. They fear everyday things like dogs, baths, and the dark. Dogs are loud, water magically

disappears from the tub, and darkness can be scary. These fears are intensified by the fact that it is hard for this age group to separate fantasy from reality. If a three year-old has a nightmare, it is difficult for them to understand the concept of dreaming. For him, the dream really happened. As adults, parents know this is not the truth of the situation, but it is very important that they treat the child’s fear with respect. When a child suffers with nightmares or night terrors, parents need to be understanding and offer comfort. They should address and acknowledge the child’s fear. They should also offer comfort in the form of soothing words and loving touch. Sitting with the child and massaging his temples or stomach until he is able to return to sleep can help alleviate the stress and anxiety of fear. Simply having a parent with him until the fear passes makes a child feel safe and cared for. Self-Esteem

At this stage, children are beginning to develop a sense of self-esteem. A healthy self-esteem is crucial to future success. When a child knows he is loved, he feels worthy, capable, and has high self-esteem. When children are rapidly developing, esteem may be specific to one area. A child may base his sense of worth in making new friends or learning new skills. It is important that parents help their children celebrate their successes, no matter how small. Encourage children to be independent and try new things, and applaud them each step of the way. When a four year-old dresses himself, instead of pointing out that his clothes don’t match, congratulate him for a job well done. When a preschooler plays cooperatively with another child for a short period of time, celebrate. These small steps are big accomplishments for young children, and a parent’s praise and love is everything at this age. Therapist and educator, Caron Goode's (EdD) is the author of a dozen books (www.

inspiredparenting.net ) and the founder of the Academy for Coaching Parents, a training program for parents & professionals who wish to mentor other parents.

Raising Children: Your Greatest Joy or Your Greatest Challenge? For most of us, it is both. Have you often wished for a manual that would make the process easier? While Dr. Minette Riordan does not propose to have ALL of the answers, she does have some great tips, tools and information that can help you achieve better communication with your children and help you to understand why they do what they do - from tantrums to talking back, from the terrible twos to the teens. If you are looking for a dynamic, entertaining speaker and seminar leader for your next Mom’s group meeting, lunch-n-learn or church program, then Dr. Riordan is the right choice for your organization. Sample Topics: How to Connect to Your Children by Listening to Their Feelings Understanding Personal Style: Improve Your Communication at Home & on the Job Life is Too Short to Wear Diamond Studs For descriptions of Dr. Riordan’s topics, testimonials from the groups she has spoken to, or to read her bio, please visit www.MinetteRiordan.com. If you are interested in scheduling Dr. Riordan to speak at your event, please contact her at minette@minetteriordan.com or 972-516-9070. www.MinetteRiordan.com

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

fun!

fun! fun! Get your groove on this summer at revelation Dance!

2009

Take a trip around the world!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Reveal Your Greatnessâ&#x20AC;?

Fine Art Classes: t )PNF 4DIPPM t 1SF 4DIPPM t "Ä&#x2122;FS 4DIPPM

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Now Enrolling for Summer Camps - 972-423-4554

Registration Begins April 1 Call for more information:

Ask About Our Sibling Discount

www.RevelationDanceStudio.net

Enroll for one week & get 2nd week 50% off. Limit one coupon per student

2001 Coit Rd. Suite 210 (NW corner of Park/Coit) Plano, 75075

Your child will spend an entire week exploring different types of art from around the world and create an entire portfolio of masterpieces!

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Drama Kids Summer Camp has new and exciting drama activities each day for non-stop fun. Learn acting skills and star in a special end-of-camp performance. Join us for a dramatically fun summer!

Call now for Camp Information! Murphy, Rowlett, Rockwall, Mesquite, Forney 972.772.3233 www.dramakids.com/tx3

Collin County 214.592.4066 www.dramakids.com/tx5

$10 Early Bird Registration when you sign up by April 30th

Aqua - Fit Swim & Wellness Center

972-578-7946

â&#x20AC;˘Swimmers by Mimi â&#x20AC;˘Swim Team Skill Training â&#x20AC;˘Adaptive & Special Need Classes Warm Salt Mineral Aqua Center â&#x20AC;˘Fun 2 Be Fit (youth program) â&#x20AC;˘Discount for Siblings

www.aquafitplano.com

Human brains learn more when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having fun.

Pump It Up and Giant Campus are working together to offer fun computer camps featuring hands-on projects in animation, game design, digital photography, robotics and web design. Plus bouncing fun! Register your child today!

Camps start June 15th Ages 6 - 10 years Dallas - 9201 Forest Ln

Call today: 888-904-2267 n Giantcampus.com

North Texas Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; April 2009â&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; www.NorthTexasKids.com

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Painting, Sculpture, Clay, Oh My!

Allow Your Child To Experience the Wide World of Art at

The Artist Within!

• We specialize in instruction for children, adults and special needs students. • Birthday Parties for ages 5 to 14 • Now enrolling for Summer Camps!

972-596-6077 Aaron’s Boats Tyler’s Dragon

The Artist Within www.aristwithin.com

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2001 Coit Rd., Ste. 206, Plano • N.W. Corner of Park & Coit

Studio

3 Dance

• Summer Dance Classes • Summer Themed Morning Camps • Summer Dance Workshops • Recreational and Competitive Classes in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Modern, Musical Theater, ZUMBA • Programs for ages 2 ½ & up

www.studio3dance.com 972-964-3838

2220 Coit Road Suite 440 • Plano, TX 75075 $10 off Summer Class Registration, Camp or Workshop

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

How will my kids get to & from activities & camps?

Kid Shuttle A.S.A.P. For safe, reliable, door to door transportation...year round

CALL TODAY!

214-725-2022 KidShuttleASAP.com

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fun

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Mosaic Art Studio

Summer Camp for boys & girls

morning and afternoon camps available

healthy snack provided 308 Preston Royal Shopping Center Dallas, Texas 75230 Tel: 214-363-2088

6405 E. Eldorado Parkway McKinney, Texas 75070 Tel: 972-540-9767

$2 Off Any Project Minimum Purchase of $15

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 7/31/09

www.smashingtimes.com

Love Horses?

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 North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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“My son didn’t just play better, he played smarter and he had fun, too!”

Join us for Summer Camps 972-867-JUMP (5867)

• Monday - Friday 8am to 1pm • Pricing as low as $15 per session! • Ages 3-15: all children must be potty trained

NOW Accepting Boys and Girls for our Basketball Development Program

Limited Spots • Contact Us Now Our Focus: Developing our players physical skills and mental knowledge of the game

Ask about our: College Scholarship Guaranty www.SportsFUNdamentals.net Coach Harvey 972-412-6067

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

• Snack/drink included • Reservations recommended • Drop-in fee $5/child (subject to availability)

• Children grouped by age • Lots of fun additional activities, too! t bou us a Ask ifferent d our ment pay ns. optio

Jump Town 3045 W 15th Street Plano, Texas 75075 www.thejumptown.com

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Do the Math. Have fun, too! Mathnasium Math Summer Camp: Kids have fun and get ahead for next year! t (SBEFT +VOF +VMZ . ' t (SBEFT +VMZ "VHVTU . ' t 3FHVMBS 4VNNFS 5VUPSJOH 4FTTJPOT +VOF "VHVTU . '

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3115 W. Parker Rd #560, Plano, TX 75023 (NW Corner Parker & Independence)

Now Enrolling Summer Camp at Anshai Torah for Fall 2009 Preschool CAMP OSIM HAYIM Discover the Difference

AGES Toddler - PreK or 5 years

June 8 - August 14

Sessions Include: Outdoor Adventures, Wacky Water, Sports Zone, Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cooking, Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; & Rollinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Backyard Science, Planet Anshai, All About Art

* PreSchool Classes for ages 12 m - PreKindergarten * Small Classes with a low teacher/student ratio * Baby/Me & Parent/Me classes also available for CAMP CHAVARA - Grades K - 5 ages 4 months - 18 months June 8 - June 26 Sessions Include: Outdoor Adventures, * New in 2009 Hebrew Immersion Classes Sports Camp, Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; & Rollinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

For more information contact Faith Retsky, Early Childhood Director at 972-473-7712 or by email at faith.retsky@anshaitorah.org www.anshaitorah.org

Trot Your Youngsters Off to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Day Camp in the Countryâ&#x20AC;? at Prospering Farm â&#x20AC;˘ Ages 7-13 â&#x20AC;˘ Beginners through advanced â&#x20AC;˘ 20 minutes from Plano â&#x20AC;˘ Specializing in English style riding Campers will also enjoy crafts, swimming and a weekly horse show.

972-346-3236

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20+&0/2&))*0 3131 Custer Rd. Suite #195 r Plano, Texas 75075 North Texas Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; April 2009â&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;&#x201A; www.NorthTexasKids.com

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Develop the Musical Potential of Your Child Age 4 through teens

Private Voice & Piano Lessons Suzuki Singing Musikgarten Keyboard Classes

Summer Programs Available Susan Matthews, M.A. 720 E. Main St. Suite C Allen 972-742-6097

www.susanmatthews.net

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ver dreamt of being one of the dan

Frisco Horse Park spring break & summer horse camp

Horseback riding & care Barnyard Animals Water Activities Crafts ! !! r e Friday v mmer e Best su Rodeos

Awesome Staff!

(Corner of Hwy 121 & Coit in Frisco, TX)

972-335-8000 cers at Disne y World or on Broadwa y?

Summer Dance Camps $1

Kids in Motion

Jazz • Tap • Ballet • Hip Hop

-17 July 6-10 & 13 6-8 & For ages 3-5 pm 9-1:00 s, Dance, Snack Arts/Crafts

June 8-12 & 15-19 All ages and levels welcome! 2 day or 4 day camps available. *Saturday classes available for 3&4 or 5&6 year olds through June.

F er. W F ages 12 & hen for 2 you wee sign k s u Cam of S umm p p. W er ith c Exp o u p ires 6-15 on. -09

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Motion Center For Dance 6221 Chapel Hill Blvd. • Plano, TX. 75093

972-403-7500 www.motioncenterfordance.com

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

00 $50 O OFF ages 13+

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Can Your Child Afford Three Months Off ?

RBI Texas

Baseball and Softball Traning facility

One-On-One, In-Home Tutoring

Now registering for summer camps for ages 3-13.

Plano, North Dallas 972-424-6321

Make new friends this summer at

All Saints Catholic School

• Summer Camps Weekly camps June through August: drop in for the day or stay all week!

• Private lessons • Parties • Parent’s Night Out

• We offer a variety of Summer Camps to nurture and guide each child in a spiritual environment. • Children can experience hands on fun with Eagles Soaring Camps. • Academic enrichment camps and recreational camps are also offered.

Visit www.allsaintsk8.org to view camp list.

214.687.8800 3492 Legacy, Ste. 900 Frisco, TX 75034

fun !

7777 Osage Plaza Parkway Dallas, TX 75252 214.217.3331

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

McKinney 469-952-3663 Frisco 469-362-6693 Southlake, Grapevine 817-741-4475 Flower Mound

972-956-0963 Reserve your tutor today!

fun! PRESCHOOL SUMMER CAMP Oh, the Games we Play! (For ages 12 months through 5 years) 1. June 1-12 Balls, Balls and More Balls! 2. June 15-26 Do, re, mi-1,2,3! 3. June 29-July 10 Music Makers! 4. July 13-24 Outside Game Time! CONTACT Bonnie Rubinstein: 972- 661-5025 brubinstein@templeshalomdallas.org

www.clubztutoring.com

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2009

your su Ads as mmer low as camp $ 175. here!! Marke t to 10 0,000 Call u s for d moms e t ails! ! 972-5

16-907 0 www.N orthTe xasKid

. . . . . . . s..com. . . . .

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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We can’t wait to meet you at Prosper Party Place. Activities: Bounce, Laser Tag, Bubble time, Rock Wall Climbing, Game time, Arcade time (at parents discretion) Camp rates include unlimited drinks, lunch & snacks. Website registration or call 972-347-9944 9 - 2 p.m. Mon-Fri Ages 4-12. Ratio of 1:7! Late pick up available.

$25.00 off camp Must present this ad.

www.prosperpartyplace.com

Where Frisco Comes to Dance! Join us for COOL summer dance classes, dance camps, cheer camps, and workshops!

Dance Force One Presents….Summer 2009

Competitive Team Tryouts Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Pom and more!

Elementary: K-3rd Grade Intermediate: 4-6th Grade Junior: 7-9th Grade

Saturday, May 30th 9-1pm

Technique class & tryout routine will be taught

Ages 2 1/2—Adult Beginner thru Professional Levels

Saturday, May 16 & 23 Time:TBA $20 includes audition shirt

Voted “Best Dance Studio” in Collin County 1997-2008.

City of Dallas Exall Park Recreation Center 1355 Adair St Dallas, TX 214.670.7812 For more information:

7975 Stonebrook Pkwy. Frisco (972) 712-1100 Home of The Frisco Ballet

www.sheenasdanceacademy.com

Registration Deadline Friday, May 15th

Director 713.304.1082

Ask us about our July Camp:

Hip Hop Xplosion

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Camp is full of fun, frineds, excitement and learning new things... sign up now!!

~ ! This summer is go i n g t o b e F U N!! W O W Summer Enrichment Camp

Enrichment Chess

Children, Teens & Adults

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Think Ahead, Play Chess, Have Fun! Summer Chess Camps for Children Visit our website www.enrichmentchess.com for more information or call 972-591-3001 Bring this coupon and get $20 Off. 1 coupon per camper.

Adult intensive workshops in French or Spanish offered during children’s camp hours.

6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230

972.991.6379 www.dallasinternationalschool.org

Does your child... Love horses? Want to learn to ride?

Send them to an English Riding Camp at Colonial Equestrian Center

972-734-2087 • 10 Miles East of McKinney • Ages 6 and up • Small Groups • Horse Care & Grooming • Swimming • Games, Crafts & More Riding lessons & horse boarding year round.

www.colonialequestrian.com

School-Age Summer Camp 2009 Open House Saturday, April 18, 2009 2pm - 5pm Cross Curricular Programs • Investigate pollution of our oceans • Float objects in the air • Discover the medieval times • Dance • Chinese • Spanish • Field Trips & more Extracurricular Activities Chess • Piano • Violin • Computer • Karate (972) 618-1688 6509 Independence Pkwy (N. of Spring Creek)

www.aplusprepschool.com

Visit www.NorthTexasKids.com

WIN:

to register to

ck a P n u F ily m a F o s Zo A Dalla y of...

Courtes

Market your summer camps to

100,000 moms! Call 972-516-9070 for details today!

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

NTK Family Resource Guide North Texas Kids is committed to bringing you the resources you need to simplify your life and raise happy, healthy kids!

Pediatric Home Health Agency Located in the Dallas & Fort Worth Metroplex

• • • •

Speech Therapy Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Case Management

www.KidsCareTherapy.com phone: (214) 575-2999

Are your kids bored?

Tomorrow can be a better day if you start by planting seeds... • Be the parent you want to be • Help your child ﬁnd happiness in each day • Create a peaceful environment at home

Jennifer Bradt, MS, LPC, NCC 6136 Frisco Square Blvd. #400 Frisco TX 75034 Main ofﬁce 469- 287-5526 Direct line 469-287-5502 plantingseedscc.com

We keep kids entertained. Develop the Musical Potential of Your Child

See you on the runway!

Age 4 through teens

Private Voice & Piano Lessons Suzuki Singing Musikgarten Keyboard Classes Susan Matthews, M.A. 720 E. Main St. Suite C Allen 972-742-6097 www.susanmatthews.net

Butterfly Princess Glamour Royalty Fashion Show•Princess Tea Party Pajama Glamour Spa • Rock Star Concert 1865 McGee Ln. Lewisville, TX 75077

972-906-6300

butterflyprincessglamour.com

Advertise Your Business Here for $109 a month.* Call us at 972-516-9070 to reserve your space today! *Price valid for full year contract only / BW Ad. Ad design fee $25.00. www.northtexaskids.com 30

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Plano/Frisco Area Music Lessons for K-12 & adults

Give your child the gift of music Harp • Cello • Piano Ear Training & Music Theory Combined 25 years of Professional instruction Call now for a Free lesson, space is limited.

ee 972.898.6272

Real Life Super Nanny

to be Honored with International Award in North Dallas-Addison by Michelle LaRowe Conover

The International Nanny Association (INA), a non-profit organization

serving as the umbrella association for the in-home child care industry, will

be announced, the 24th annual INA conference is set to include 3 days of information-packed workshops, covering many topics related to the in-home

conference at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in North Dallas-Addison, Texas, April

specialists, traveling nannies, nanny agency owners and their staff, as well

reveal the 2009 INA Nanny of The Year (NOTY) award recipient at its annual 23-26.

“The NOTY award recipient is an exemplary nanny, not only in her work,

but also in her professional conduct. In addition to being the best of the best in her profession, she is of legal working status and adheres to all required

state and federal tax laws; a hot topic not only in the political arena this year,

child care industry. In attendance will be nannies, governesses, newborn care as industry service providers from all over the world. Workshops will be

presented by nationally known experts and are designed to provide in-depth training for participants. This year’s conference will include such noted speakers as:

• Dallas-based Emmy winning news anchor and reporter, Jeff Crilly

but also in the media,” said Wendy Sachs, Co-President of INA.

As is tradition, this prestigious award will be presented by the previous

• Nationally renowned Media Mom and The Family Coach, Dr. Lynne Kenney

• Dallas-based best-selling author and founder of Positive Life Principles, Karol Ladd

NOTY will be available for media interviews, appearances, and speaking

• Houston-based pediatric gastroenterologist and author of Colic Solved, Dr. Bryan Vartabedian

the association newsletter,” said Susan Tokayer, Co-President of INA.

• Chief Inspiration Officer of the Academy of Coaching Parents International, Dr. Caron B. Goode

year’s NOTY. Donna Robinson, the 2008 NOTY is an Austin, Texas based renowned traveling nanny and a genuine advocate for children. One of

her roles has been to promote quality child care and to increase awareness about the industry. “As a representative of the nanny profession, the 2009

engagements. Her child care philosophy will also be published in INAVision, INA NOTY Michelle LaRowe became affectionately known as America’s

Nanny and went on to pen four parenting books after winning her 2004 award. Appearing on national and international television, she helped

enlighten the public about the professional nanny. She has also consulted

with celebrity nanny, Nanny Stella from Nanny 911, who even endorsed her third book, Working Mom’s 411 (Regal, Feb. 2009).

April 2009 won’t be the first time Dallas and INA have crossed paths. In

fact, Gail Bittle, a Dallas resident, received the NOTY award in 1995. Today

Gail works as a part-time nanny, and teaches kindergarten at a private school in Dallas. Gail shared that winning the award “reconfirmed that her choice

of being a nanny was the right one and it confirmed that being a nanny is a significant and extremely important role in today’s world.”

In addition to the 2009 NOTY Luncheon, where the award recipient will

The INA Nanny Credential Exam will also be offered during conference.

INA is the only free standing association that offers an exam specifically

designed to test a nanny’s practical knowledge of child care. Nannies can register for the exam by calling 888-878-1477.

The 24th annual INA conference won’t be all work and no play.

Conference attendees will participate in networking breaks, special

luncheons and dinners. Friday night everyone will head out to the Real

Texas Festival in Mesquite, Texas to experience a rodeo and BBQ, Texas style. The INA conference is open to all those involved with the in-home child

care profession and those wishing to learn more about becoming a nanny. If you wish to attend this year’s conference, you can visit www.nanny.org or call 888-878-1477 to register.

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

TIMMY’S TUTOR Get to know... Rick Pfeil of Blue Sky Landscaping

by Minette Riordan, Ph. D.

You might think a landscaping company is an odd choice for our “Getting to Know” column, but Blue Sky Landscaping is one of the first companies of its kind in North Texas and they are committed to making a difference for the environment and for their own family. I met with founder and visionary Rick Pfeil recently and here is what I found out. By asking themselves the simple question of “How can we do more for the environment?”, Rick and his wife started doing some research. What they discovered led to the creation of Blue Sky Landscaping, a new company that is “powered by nature.” Why did your start Blue Sky Landscaping?

We went to the Live Green Expo in Plano and really came away from that wanting to do something that

had real impact on the environment and on air quality. We discovered in our research that one gasolinepowered lawn mower emits as much pollution as 40 automobiles! I didn’t believe it the first time I heard it, but the reason is that lawn mower engines are designed differently and do not have the pollution regulations like the catalytic converters on automobiles. We researched propane mowers but they are very expensive, around $5,000 each. There are many people out there who would like to have an impact on improving air quality, but wouldn’t pay $5k for a mower. We thought that most people who were at the Live Green expo would probably switch to an eco-friendly service if the cost was the same as a traditional maintenance company. That is how Blue Sky started. How is starting a new business impacting your family?

Thankfully our family is all together on this project and we work on it together as a family. In fact, our 11 year old daughter dreams up a new marketing idea at least once a week. I

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

am proud that my 1 year old will grow up knowing her family is making a difference for the environment. Clean air should be a priority for parents. What are the challenges of being a dad and a small business owner? The biggest challenge of being a dad and a business owner is keeping the excitement of a startup in check. The “startup” is exciting from the ground up and, although it’s fun and energizing to teach your kids about business and the environment when they are genuinely interested and inquisitive, you can’t forget about homework and chores. Believe me they will LET you forget. What else makes Blue Sky unique?

We are a green startup in landscaping services. Although landscaping literally puts the green in “green”, it is ironically a very eco-dirty industry. At Blue Sky, we are unique in that we use clean energy to power the majority of our equipment. Instead of gasoline, we use propane and electricity generated from solar and

wind. This is a truly revolutionary concept in landscaping and we are on the cutting edge of transforming this eco-dirty industry into an eco-friendly one. Our equipment is EPA certified and provides up to 96% reduction in ozone depleting emissions and up to 80% reduction in toxic emissions. Air quality is becoming more and more important for our large metropolitan area, especially for the kids who are increasingly developing more asthmarelated conditions. Why the name Blue Sky Landscaping?

When we were still at the conceptual stage and playing around with ideas for names we kept trying to fit “green” into the name. We realized that half of the landscaping companies out there use “green” in their company name and it has nothing to do with being eco-friendly. So in a strategy session focused on standing out while conveying the company’s mission, the epiphany of “Blue Sky” was a natural fit. For more information about the services offered by Blue Sky Landscaping, please visit them online at www.bluesky-services. org or call 214-BLUE-SKY.

who excel at school are not necessarily born smarter, they are simply better at studying.

by Stephanie Ashley Poor study skills and time management can be your child’s silent grade killer. Study skills are basic abilities, strategies and methods of learning which are critical to academic success. Study skills should not be confused with study techniques and study methods. Good study skills are the foundation of success in education, as well as life. Effective study skills are considered essential for students to acquire good grades in school, and are useful in general to improve learning throughout one’s life, in support of career and other interests.

Developing study skills is crucial for students these days as curriculums become more intense and exams more competitive. Students with good study skills quickly develop greater confidence in themselves and have an increased sense of motivation after learning how school can be easier. The first step in developing greater confidence is for the student to know their own learning style. Learning style

explains how the individual interacts with new information. The three main learning styles are Visual, Audio, and Tactile/Kinesthetic. There are many free learning style assessments available on the internet. Study skills includes teaching organization techniques, time management skills, problem identification, study and note taking strategies, motivation, responsibility, task completion, completing homework assignments, comprehension and subject knowledge, and important test review and test taking skills. Training students to develop disciplined habits should increase self-confidence, reduce conflict with parents, and help students develop more effective study habits. According to Three Rivers Community College, students spend 20 percent of all school related hours just listening. Students can study their hardest yet still achieve the same grades, because their study habits are being repeated. After a bit of ‘trial and error’ most students identify and adopt techniques best suited to their individual learning style. Students

Parents will find it amazing how quickly their children will bounce back academically once they’ve established proper study skills. Parents of elementary students usually help their children more than parents of adolescents. Knowing a child’s particular learning style will greatly assist parents with their student. Take it upon yourself to find out your students learning and communication style. The site that I have some of my tutors use with the younger children ishttp:// www.personal.psu.edu/bxb11/LSI/ LSI.htm and another comprehensive one for older children ishttp://www. ldpride.net/learning-style-test.html. Parents find that homework battles disappear once they have learned how to help their child study better and how to communicate more effectively. If parents and teachers step back and let these students figure it out or take responsibility for their own learning, this may lead to a deeper cycle of failure at school. Parents can cultivate school confidence by helping their children view themselves as able learners. Students today have twice as much

homework as their parents did, therefore teachers and parents must work together to help children learn good study skills. Being aware of common problems can help parents know when it is important to reach out and ask for help before a difficult time develops into a more serious situation. Study skills are basic abilities, strategies and methods of learning which are critical to academic success. They are essential when it comes to getting the most out of your student’s studies and performing to the best of their ability. Teaching study skills is one of the most important skills but one that is rarely taught. The results of poor study skills are wasted time, frustration, and low or failing grades. Behind every good student are good study skills. Make sure your student acquires the study skills needed to succeed in school and in life. It is too important to ignore. Stephanie Ashley is the owner of Club Z! InHome Tutoring in Flower Mound. She strives to provide a custom approach to increase a student’s confidence and self-esteem for immediate success in the classroom. With help from the student’s teacher, a customized plan is put in place and monitored for immediate results. There are many Club Z! franchises in the DFW area. For more information or find a Club Z! tutoring near you visit www. clubztutoring.com or call (972) 956-0963.

We're Growing... North Texas Kids is seeking new sales staff in the following areas: Garland, Dallas, and McKinney.

Please send your resume and a cover letter to info@northtexas kids.com.

Commission only position with flexible hours. Sales experience requested. Serious inquiries only, please.

site b e ur w -up o n to er Go nd sig slett a new our r u t o for nd ge ort on W! a rep DF n i E FRE t Free s Ea d i K

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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1 to 1

All ages, all grades

Diagnostic Evaluation Administered as necessary or upon request

12 DFW Metro Locations

1 to 1, 4 to 1

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Lewisville and Plano

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Pre-School to High School

Yes

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1 to 1 or 3 to 1

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Not Formalized

8811 Teel Parkway, Frisco, TX 75034 (Next to WingStop)

Rich Educational Consulting

THE TUTORING PLA+CE

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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We customize schedules, lesson plans and sessions to the student’s needs and choose a tutor who can work best with the student.

Flower Mound 972-956-0963 North Dallas/Plano 972-424-6321 www.clubztutoring.com

2 to 4

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Established over 30 years ago with 400 locations nationwide

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All academic areas, SAT, ACT, TAKS, Study Skills

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All degreed professionals

Attention, Memory, Reading, Organization

3 to 5

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Help you understand why your child is not succeeding

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Combination of Math-Qualiﬁed and Certiﬁed Teachers

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*Diagnostic Fee waived ($199 value) when mentioning “North Texas Kids”

Frisco: 469-362-7300 Plano: 214-336-7648 www.mathnasium.com

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Life coaching and social thinking classes; reading, math and Spanish

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We will individualize plans for your child’s needs

richeducationalconsulting.com www.adina@richeducationalconsulting.com

Founded in 1979, we are North America’s leading provider of private tutoring for children in grades pre-K through 12. We offer a Personalized Learning Plan, Individual Attention & Regular Progress Reports

972-447-022 www.SylvanLearning.com sylvan8305@gmail.com

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One-on-One course, speciﬁc mentoring with no computer programs and no contracts

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Degreed professionals and certiﬁed teachers

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Reading, Math, Writing, Study Skills, Phonics, SAT/ACT/ISEE/TAKS exam prep

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Combination of Certiﬁed and Math Qualiﬁed Teachers

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College and Post Graduate Mentors

All courses and academic subjects

Based on Student’s Needs

1-3

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North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Sports Scoop

Charlie McKinney’s Little Heroes Baseball

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

214-405-0360 West of Dallas N. Tollway

469-834-8450

BASEBALL

Ages 2 to 6 yrs 469-834-8450 Register online at www.lilsluggersdallas.com 36

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Charlie McKinney’s true love as a kid had always been basketball, but in October 2002 he found himself helping coach his nine year old son’s baseball team in a BBI (Boys Baseball Inc.) tournament. McKinney had always followed professional baseball from afar when younger but like a lot of dads who coach their kids, he began to immerse himself in the sport. His true appreciation for all the nuances of baseball grew and he began to watch more big league games with his son than he ever had as a kid. Some of the best theatre in Major League Baseball happens every October when the leaves turn colors and post-season play begins. The playoffs during October 2002 were no exception. That year Charlie and his son watched the (then) Anaheim Angels rally against the San Francisco Giants to win the last two games of the World Series and give the franchise its first championship. With that post-season as a backdrop, McKinney looked at his son’s team and he noticed something that had escaped him in the past. Every face in both dugouts shared a common trait – skin color. The players were white. The coaches were white. The umpires were white. Upon further review, McKinney also noticed there wasn’t a single team in the tournament with a minority player or coach. McKinney didn’t think this made sense because most of the best players on the major league teams in that post-season were minorities. Garrett Anderson, Barry Bonds, Derek Jeter, Eric Chavez, Jermaine Dye, Torii Hunter, Luis Gonzales, and Gary Sheffield had all played starring roles for their teams. There are a lot of different theories as to why fewer minorities are playing baseball today than they have in the past but the numbers do not lie. In the late 70’s, almost 30% of all

players were African-American and that number today is now below 10%. Some blame Major League Baseball for going to Latin American countries to seek cheap and plentiful labor. Others will say it’s because college baseball is not a revenue producing sport and that minorities spend more time in their formative years concentrating on football and basketball looking for the full-ride scholarship. The cost to play select baseball, typically $3,000 or more per season, is also a major factor. What’s more than apparent is that fewer African-American kids are experiencing the pure joy of playing baseball and a predominant reason is the lack of opportunity. When Jackie Robinson started playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, he not only paved the way for his race but he also raised the quality of play. True icons of the game like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Willie McCovey, Joe Morgan, and Reggie Jackson were amongst the many minority players who would follow Robinson after he broke the color barrier. Baseball had become a better sport because it had finally opened the doors to all the best athletes in the country. In 2002, Charlie McKinney had bigger concerns in his life than the quality of play in the Major League Baseball. What he saw at that tournament bothered him

Soccer Word Scramble 1. masge 2. labl 3. gckniki 4. aglo 5. rptso 6. nblribgid 7. emat 8. lkisl 9. onrfium 10. nru

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Now registering for summer camps for ages 3-13. Weekly camps June through August: drop in for the day or stay all week! • Summer Camps • Private lessons • Parties • Parent’s Night Out

Call today for more information or to register:

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went to the City of Dallas armed with a great plan and the necessary sponsor that wanted to help. In April 2005, the Whataburger Little Heroes Field at Pike Park was opened. Located in downtown Dallas and adjacent to the American Airlines Center, the 500-seat ballpark is a true gem. Built at a cost of $1.5 million with an eye for detail, it is a modern ballpark with urban surroundings carved into what used to be the Spanish Heritage Center (within Little Mexico). The ballpark has a PA system with music played between innings; sunken dugouts, hitter friendly fences, warning tracks and a “green monster” in left field. Grizzled select players in their teens who have played most of their baseball in sterile, devoid-ofpersonality, suburban ballparks will tell you playing at the Little Heroes Field is amongst the most unique and very best experience they have ever had. Playing baseball in the shadows of a downtown skyline and hearing their name announced as they come to the plate makes the kids feel like they’ve made it to “The Show.” Where does Heroes go from here? McKinney relates, “It has taken us a long time but the Heroes brand has been accepted by the people of the inner city and they trust us.” Never straying too far from his first love of hoops, McKinney and his partners have taken their winning concept to basketball. This spring the Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center will open in Oak Cliff. An old YWCA building located smack in the hood has been renovated and when open in late spring, will feature an NBAquality court along with classrooms, computer labs and courses designed to help kids get through SAT and ACT tests. When asked about the greatest challenge with Heroes, McKinney said, “We pour a lot of money and time into this but it makes me feel good when some of our partners have told me how proud they are to have been a part of this when they drive by the ballpark and see the number of lives they’ve affected. As for me, seeing the look on the face of a minority kid who crosses home plate after he hits his first home run makes everything we do worth it to me.”

Sports Scoop

profoundly. He knew how much fun that both he and his son were having with baseball and he felt that every kid should have that same opportunity and experience. The difference between McKinney and a lot of other people is that he had the means and decisiveness to effectively initiate change. A 1980 graduate of Highland Park High School, McKinney earned a finance degree from SMU. He bounced around a little after graduation and during the early 90’s found himself working for Goldman Sachs “managing the money of wealthy people.” Along the way he picked up a client named Mark Cuban “before he became very wealthy” and the seeds of a successful partnership and eventual friendship were planted. In Cuban, McKinney had found a kindred soul who knew the importance of providing opportunities for kids to play sports and how that could improve the community. McKinney also talked to Todd Wagner who had been Cuban’s partner at Audio Net and Broadcast. Com before they sold their company to Yahoo. Wagner’s own foundation had launched a national program (with a chapter in Dallas) called After School All-Stars in 2001 which was designed to provide yearround academic, sports and cultural programs for kids in inner cities. After pitching their ideas to the City of Dallas and with cooperation from the Dallas Parks & Recreation Department, Heroes Baseball was up and running in the summer of 2003. McKinney explains, “I couldn’t have done with this without a lot of help. I urged a lot of my clients to participate in this and they were very receptive.” Today the Heroes organization has nearly 600 kids in their Instructional League Baseball program which introduces the game at a recreational level. There is also a select program for boys aged 9-17. McKinney wants his select teams to be competitive but maintains “We want the better players to be prepared to make their high school teams.” Like any baseball organization, the Heroes organization soon discovered they needed an outdoor facility where they could practice and play games. McKinney again

3492 Legacy, Ste. 900 Frisco, TX 75034

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Sports & Fitness Programs Ask us about Summer Camp!

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Earth Day Tips: 1. Shut off the water while brushing your teeth 2. Walk or ride your bike instead of traveling by car 3. Take faster showers and baths to save water 4. Hang up clothes to dry instead using the dryer 5. Turn off the light when leaving your room 6. Shut off the TV when you are no longer watching 7. Bring your own canvas bag for shopping purchases

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North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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The

Emotional

Effects of TAKS on School Curriculum by Adina Rich

March and April are particularly hectic months when trying to gather your information together. You need to be clear, concise, organized, and prepared! You need to leave no stone unturned as you want to get the best bang for your dollars. Yes it’s TAKS season! You thought I was talking about that other tax season? No, not hardly, and yet the stakes are rising for our kids. The idea of standardized testing is not new. It did not even begin with the public school system; rather with the military in an attempt to determine who was fit to serve for duty, and in which capacity- a leader or a mere soldier. The success of the Army testing soon spread to the education system, and a new measurement tool was soon in place. Schools have understood the need for high stakes testing for some time as a way to measure students’ performance, teachers’performance, and a way to hold districts accountable for teaching what our kids need in this global economy. For years, critics and psychologists have charged that there is an overabundance of testing and that testing in the early years is not developmentally appropriate. However, with the advent of No Child Left Behind, it appears that the standardized testing movement is here to stay. But, the question remains, are our children really learning more or has the joy for learning been replaced by the need to succeed on the test? Are children really learning to problem solve or are they just learning to beat the test? Standardized testing has many unintended effects, though. Research indicates that testing can result in decreased motivation to learn, sets children up for failure, and can contribute to the drop out rate. Testing has also become the basis for determining a child’s eligibility for programming, or whether they are able to be promoted or retained.

They drive what teachers teach in the classroom, narrowing the focus of learning or forcing teachers to teach test taking skills rather than the developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters a true love of learning. Studies show that when children are exposed to experience-based learning, they are able to creatively problem solve and apply real world meaning to their learning. Portfolio and authentic assessments are one tool that educators have that demonstrates far more abstract thought than the average multiple choice test. Often used with gifted learners, the authentic assessment gives children the opportunity to share their strengths and assist them in becoming confident learners. For example, students are able to create an erupting volcano instead of just answering questions about how volcanoes are formed. Other examples of authentic assessment include conducting social-science research, applying math skills in a real-world setting, reading and interpreting literature through things like dioramas or character studies. When children are actively engaged in the assessment of their abilities, they begin to understand why they are learning what they are learning. The learning is meaningful and the very skills the teachers are trying to foster are skills that the students actually possess. Finally, this active learning invites collaboration between teachers, parents, and students, and can actually create curriculum that invites children’s participation. Wouldn’t we rather TAKS our kids’ brains this way? Adina Rich is the Director of Rich Educational Consulting, LLC, an independent educational services firm serving parents and children in the DFW metroplex in the areas of assessment, diagnosis, advocacy, and consultation regarding various learning and behavior challenges.

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Focus on our Advertisers... Drama Kids of Collin County Realizing the opportunity to make a “dramatic” difference in the

community, local entrepreneur Toni Rogers has set out to build the speech skills and confidence of children throughout our Collin County area by offering a new program that is changing the “scene” of traditional drama instruction.

Toni Rogers has a B.S. Degree in Communications from Lamar University

His store grew and grew but you would never know it by watching him. I

remember him sweeping the front porch (as he called it) every morning at the

store and waving to the town as they honked and drove by. He taught me to

treat everyone as special and how every job someone does in a business is so important. He trained my 3 brothers and I to do everything from unloading

trucks and cleaning the bathrooms to customer service and doing payroll. He

and has 20 years experience in the entertainment industry as a talent agent,

taught me so much and was such a wonderful role model. Now that Excite! is

for the Professional Actors Studio in Dallas TX and was the owner of The Artists’

even more in my dad’s steps. He gave to so many people; he volunteered his

Toni lived in New York city for eight years where she worked with Abrams

I tell you all of this because sometimes when you own a business, especially

overs, Johnson Liff Casting as a casting assistant for Broadway/Off Broadway

are just people trying to do the best we can. Excite! is my home and the people

Emmy Award Winning TV Drama “Law & Order” as well as feature films and

chance and sharing your kids with me, it is something I truly treasure.

Collin County. She lives in McKinney and is married with three children, to

family that has supported me in this hobby of mine, Kevin, Nicholas, Alison,

casting director, dance teacher and speech & theatre teacher. She has worked

growing and we have the opportunity to do more, I really am trying to follow

Company until pursuing a career in education as a speech & theatre teacher.

time in the community and he never knew a person he didn’t consider a friend.

Artists and Associates in the on-camera commercial department/print/voice

one like mine that can be competitive and seem big, you may not realize we

and National Tours, and Lynn Kressel Casting as a casting associate for the

in it are my family and friends. And I thank all the parents for giving Excite! a

television movies. Toni is excited to be the owner/director of Drama Kids/

And lastly in comment but not last in my gratitude, I give thanks to my

husband Shelby, children Cameron, 8 and twin’s Carly & Carson, 6 and their Drama Kids mascot pet, Romeo. old.

Drama Kids offers age appropriate classes for students ages 3-16 years

We also offer Summer Camps, Preschool Workshops and an After

School program that brings innovative curriculum directly into the schools.

my mom and dad, and all my brothers.

Please come and join our family at Excite! Two great locations to serve you:

Excite! Flower Mound (972.874.9663) and Excite! Highland Village (972.874.8500). For more information, please visit our website at www.excitegym.com or give us a call!

Owner Toni says: “At Drama Kids, children have fun learning important

communication skills they will need to succeed in life. I believe speech & drama are a fundamental part of education that teaches children to speak out clearly

and relate confidently with peers. We use fun drama activities/curriculum to

focus the bold, outspoken child, and to draw out the quiet child, helping them reach into themselves and discover their full potential.”

Looking for a Speaker for Your Next Meeting?

Drama Kids offers free trial classes, parent presentations, spring

performance and speech & drama awards to all students. This award-winning

program has been internationally recognized for its creative drama curriculum

and teaching methods. For more information or to enroll in classes, contact Toni Rogers/214.592.4066 and/or visit www.dramakids.com/tx5.

Excite! Gym and Cheer I’m Julie Hutchens and I started Excite! Gym and Cheer in 2001. I am so

often asked “did I always want it to be this big”? And my answer is no! I just wanted a place where kids, parents and staff came and they felt like family and the gym felt like home.

As we opened and grew, it was never our goal specifically to “get bigger.”

It’s come from the kids asking me for more space or for more stuff and they

Here are a just a few of the topics our speakers cover... Parenting l Motivaton l Stress Management l Relationships l Self-Defense

drove me to do more. I love teaching and being with kids; they are my passion. Now I wouldn’t say they are alway little darlings and there are definite times

I want to put a for sale sign out front, but then one kid gives me a picture, or hugs me and it is all worth it.

We have so many great families and staff at our gym. Excite’s energy is

all of us together, it isn’t me. I grew up in a family run business and my dad

was my idol. He never complained and worked 6 days a week and taught

Sunday school on the 7th. He owned a Ben Franklin store that he loved. 40

North Texas Kids • April 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

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Find these events and more online at www.momsoutloud.com & www.northtexaskids.com!

April 1 Wednesday Dallas 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 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 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 Frisco Bags 4 Kids Luggage Trade-In Event: Donate your gently used luggage throughout the month of April to benefit local foster care children. As a thank you for your donation, Bag’n Baggage will give you a $20 gift certificate to use on your next luggage or business case purchase. (972) 731-0441 www.shopstonebriar.com Dallas Hand-in-Hand - 10:00 AM: Wednesdays. Handin-Hand is a literacy based drop-in program for adults and their preschoolers to imagine, explore, and discover together. 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

2 Thursday Lewisville Bye-Buy Consignment Sale: Bye-Buy Consignment Sale located at Garden Ridge Church of Christ. BBC is committed to offering you the best in gently used children’s and maternity items. Visit www.bbconsign.com for more details about Volunteering & registering as a consignor. Garden Ridge Church is located at 102 N. Garden Ridge Blvd, Lewisville. Lewisville Barnes & Noble story-time - 10:00 AM: Thursdays at 10 am. Please join us for story-time each week with a new featured story. Call 972-315-7966 or visit the 2325 South Stemmons Frwy Lewisville 75067 location for weekly titles. Wylie Moms & More Monthly Meeting - 10:00 AM: Moms & More offers support and activities for parents and kids in Wylie and the surrounding communities. Please call for more info: 469-361-6468. URL: www.wyliemomsandmore.org Irving JumpstART - Stories & ART - 10:00 AM: 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving, TX 75062, FREE, Box Office: (972)252.ARTS. FREE family story time with a hands-on art activity to follow.

Frisco Dancing with Dorothy - 11:30 AM: Every thursday in April. Wiggly Play Center 4944 Preston Road #100 469-633-0676. www.wigglyplaycenter.com

3 Friday Southlake First Friday Women’s Event - 11:00 AM: First Friday of Every Month. Harkins Theatre, Southlake Town Center. Admission is free. Arrive early to ensure seating. Childcare is provided through Harkins Theatre for a fee by reservation only. Contact the Play Center at 817-310-0245 two days prior to the event to reserve your child’s place. firstfridaywomen.com Frisco Wiggle with Wags - 11:30 AM: Every Friday in April. At Wiggly Play Center 4944 Preston Road #100 469-633-0676 www.wigglyplaycenter.com Flower Mound & Highland Village Excite! Friday & Saturday Nights Out - 6:00 PM: Open gym play, inflatables, trampoline, foam pit, games, and pizza dinner. Ages 3 - 11.Fridays at Excite! Flower Mound 972.874.9663 for reservations. Saturdays at Excite! Highland Village 972.874.8500 for reservations. $18 Excite! members/$20 nonmember. www.excitegymandcheer.com Richardson Rainbow Connection Preschool Fundraiser - 6:30 PM: Come enjoy the fun of a silent and live auction as well as a Tex-Mex dinner buffet. Tickets: $15 per person and can be purchased in advance (preferred) or at the door. 1651 E. Campbell Road in Richardson. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call Naomi Hurst at 972-644-0283. This event is designed for adults only.

4 Saturday Coppell / Valley Ranch Coppell / Valley Ranch Early Childhood PTA - Spring Fling / Easter Party, 10:00am-11:30am, Riverside Church of Christ (NW corner of Beltline and Denton Tap). You provide 12 filled eggs (your child’s age appropriate) we will provide the fun. Age-grouped Easter Egg Hunts, Petting Zoo and Pony Rides. www.cvrecpta.org. Grapevine SPRING INTO NASH: Come out and help plant the spring garden so we can start Growing Together! Enjoy old-fashioned family fun at the farm, including a petting zoo, pony rides, sack races, and listen to stories from Thomas and Elizabeth Nash. Learn about life on the farm! www.GrapevineTexasUSA.com Frisco Twice As Nice Children’s Consignment Sale - 7:30 AM: First Baptist of Frisco MOPS Saturday, April 4, 20097:30 AM to noon. www.fbcfriscomops.org Plano Junior League of Plano’s 20th Annual Trinkets to Treasures - 8:00 AM: Collin County’s largest Rummage Sale! Admission is $5, Children 11 years of age and under are admitted free For more information contact the Junior League of Plano Hotline at 972.769.1142 or visit www.jlplano.org Plano Centre. Dallas Make the Break Run - 8:00 AM: 5K/1M, Reverchon Park, Dallas, TX. 214-389-7704 www.genesisshelter.org/ Grapevine Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Rainforest Cafe - 8:00 AM: Cha! Cha!’s Egg-Cellent Easter Adventure! Knee High Breakfast Buffet, Color-

ing Contest, Easter Egg Hunt. Free goodie bags for kids. Free Easter Basket Raffle And if course, The Easter Bunny and Cha! Cha! Children 3 years & under are Free! Children ages 4-12 $7.99. Children 13 & up/adults $10.99 www.simon.com

Lewisville Barnes & Noble story-time - 11:00 AM: Saturdays at 11am. Please join us for story-time each week with a new featured story. Call 972-315-7966 or visit the 2325 South Stemmons Frwy Lewisville 75067 location for weekly titles. Stonebriar, Frisco Centennial Medical hosts First Saturday Q&A - 12:00 PM: The first Saturday of every month, professionals from Centennial Medical Center will present a free question and answer session at Stonebriar Centre. All Q&As are at no charge and will be held on the lower level in the Dillard’s wing, near the Healthy Hometown Play Area, which is sponsored in the shopping center by Centennial Medical Center. www.centennialmedicalcenter.com Dallas SPCA Grief Counseling Group - 1:00 PM: The SPCA of Texas’ Pet Grief recovery program is designed to help those who are grieving the loss of a beloved companion animal. Free and open to the public. SPCA of Texas, 2400 Lone Star Drive, Dallas, conference room. www.spca.org (214) 742-SPCA Dallas Dallas Public Library Children’s Activity Series - 2:00 PM: This fun, hands-on activity program for elementary school age children takes place in NorthCourt between Nordstrom and Macy’s at 2:00 pm. www.northparkcenter.com Plano Bowl Full of Blues II - 7:00 PM: Featuring Janiva Magness, Plus The Dallas Blues Divas Revue Saturday April 4th @ 7:00pm At The Amphitheater at Oak Point Park, 2801 E. Spring Creek Pkwy. Plano. Adults $15, Seniors(60+) $10, Children(12-) $8. Coolers and Picnic Baskets Welcome. Alcohol Permitted www.planostages.com

5 Sunday Southlake Easter in the Park - 1:30 PM: Egg hunt, pictures, petting zoo, inflatables. Enter off White Chapel, fields 1 & 2. www.cityofsouthlake.com Richardson “From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler” - 2:30 PM: Family Theatre Series. Hill Performance Hall Tickets: $10-$20. Eisemann Center Ticket Office 972-744-4650. www.artspower.org

7 Tuesday 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 in Spanish. 2325 South Stemmons Frwy Lewisville 75067 (North West corner area at Central & Round Grove Rd) 972-315-7966 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

9 Thursday McKinney Treasure Island presented by Word of Mouth Productions. April 9-11 see website for showtimes. $8/adults, $7/seniors and students, $6/children under 12. McKinney Performing Arts Center. www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org Carrollton Reading Roundup: Bees and Honey - 10:00 AM: Children ages 3 to 6 will learn all about amazing bees and how they fit into farm life over 100 years ago at the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum. Make and take a bee craft! Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Register by April 2 at www.cityofcarrollton.com/parksandrec $5 per child. Call 972-466-6381 for more information. The Colony Spring Eggstravaganza - 6:30 PM: Egg hunt and spring festival at The Colony Five Star Complex. For more info call 972 625 1106. www.ci.the-colony.tx.us

10 Friday Carrollton How to Teach Small Children the Value of Money through Saving, Spending and Giving - 9:30 AM: Carrollton Early Childhood PTA. Free to parents/caregivers of children birth-age 6 in the area. Reservations for childcare recommended. At 1901 E. Peters Colony Road in Carrollton. See www.cecpta.org for details. Frisco Car Seat Fitting Station - 12:30 PM: Centennial Medical Center Frisco, 1-877-228-3628. 2nd Friday of the month. Parents will be assisted with installation of the car seat and educated on proper securing of child.

11 Saturday Dallas Second Saturday Science - MNS Discovery Days: Come discover something new on the second Saturday every month with Discovery Days! Activities are free with your museum admission! www.natureandscience.org Plano Easter Eggstravaganza - 9:00 AM: Come join us for a fun-filled morning with your family. There will be exciting activities for all ages, delicious food and tons of Easter eggs of course! The cost for all the activities is only $5.00 per person ages 2 and up! www.thecornerschurch.com Four Corners Church 2400 State Hwy 121 Plano, TX 75025 Plano KidsFest in Downtown Plano, 15th St. & Avenue K, 10am-6pm. Inflatables, pictures with the Easter Bunny, Easter egg hunt, train rides, face painting, pony rides, vendors & more! Shopping and dining in beautiful historic downtown Plano. Carrollton Family Fun: Easter Fun, Hunt and Hop - 10:00 AM: Bring your baskets and parent(s) to the Easter Eggstravaganza at the Elm Fork Nature Preserve. Participate in art activities, stories and of course an Easter Egg Hunt. You’ll have a hoppin’ good time. Register by April 4 at www. cityofcarrollton.com/parksandrec $10 per child. Call 972-466-6381 for more information. Flower Mound Otaku Kyokai No Flower Mound (Teen Anime Club) - 1:00 PM: (Monthly at 1pm on the second Saturday). Flower Mound Public Library McKinney “Second Saturdays” - 7:00 PM: A celebration of the arts and the community with live enter-

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

tainment, spirits, and food where featured artists debut their latest creations. 972.547.2660 or www.downtownmckinney.com

12 Sunday McKinney Easter Egg Hunt - 12:00 PM: Poppy`s Garden Cafe will host egg hunting from noon to 2p.m. 107 S. Church, McKinney. www.poppys-gardencafe.com Plano Easter Bunny at Kreative Kidz Partyz - 1:00 PM: Calling all Kids & Parents! Come & join us for lots of fun & treats with the Easter Bunny! Cost $8 per child & $12 per adult. Make your reservations today, space is limited for the popular event. Location Kreative Kidz Partyz, 6529 W. Plano Parkway, Ste. E, Plano 972-977-7709. www.kreativekidzpartyz.com

13 Monday The Colony The Colony Early Childhood PTA - 9:15 AM: For Parents of Children ages 0-5yrs. Meets the 2nd Monday of the month at 9:15am, SeptemberMay at the LDS Church at 6800 Anderson Dr The Colony Tx. Outings, playgroups and more! Childcare provided for a nominal fee $5 for 1 child and $8 for 2 or more of the same family. Email membership@tcecpta.org www.tcecpta.org

14 Tuesday Plano Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano - 9:30 AM: Join us at one of our regular program meetings on the second Tuesday of each month.Please join us at SMU-in-Legacy, 5228 Tennyson Parkway, Plano. Look for our signs! (West of Preston Road on the SE Corner of Tennyson & Democracy) www.newcomerfriends.org

16 Thursday Plano A Day of Love and Logic with Jim Fay - 8:30 AM. A fun and entertaining seminar for teachers and parents. Admission: $99. Information: 800-338-4065 or www.loveandlogic.com Plano Centre Carrollton Nature Tales: Birds of Prey - 10:00 AM: Kids ages 3 to 6 will learn about different types of birds of prey and how they got that name at the Elm Fork Nature Preserve. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Register by April 9 at www. cityofcarrollton.com/naturepreserve $5 per child. For more information call 972-466-6381.

18 Saturday Dallas Jog with the Frog - 8:30 AM: 5K/1K. Fair Park, Dallas, TX. 817-478-0796 www.jogwiththefrog.com/ Plano Healthy Kids Day - 9:00 AM: Kids can participate in activities such as fitness demos, family swim time, rockwall climbing, an obstacle course, bounce house, carnival games and health exhibits and workshops. Free. Plano Family YMCA Legacy Park, 5101 Tennyson Pkwy. 972-378-9622 www.planoymca.org

Plano Live Green Expo - 9:00 AM: Come enjoy a FREE, family event encouraging environmentally friendly lifestyles. For more information: 972-816-9489 or www.livegreenexpo.net Plano Centre

ticket to the Empty Bowl from 12pm--3pm and enjoy a bowl of soup, drink and dessert and choose a bowl to take home. Live music, face painting, sidewalk art, chair massage & more! 17194 Preston Rd. #109, Dallas. 972-248-0001.

Dallas Dallas Arboretum. Mommy & Me Mondays 10am - 2pm. 10am - 2pm: Tiny Tots Tuesdays presented by Children’s Medical Center. www. dallasarboretum.org

Carrollton Family Fun: Play with Clay - 1:00 PM: Join us at the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum and make your own ceramic art using hand building techniques! $10 fee per family, up to 5 people. Register by April 11 at www.cityofcarrollton.com/ parksandrec or Call 972-466-6381. Frisco Rockin’ the Park - 5:00 PM: Warren Sports Complex (7599 Eldorado Pkwy.) Come enjoy a spring evening outdoors listening to music featuring a cover band and songwriters of all styles and ages from North Texas. For more information, call 972-841-0226. www.friscotexas.gov

Fort Worth Funky Finds Spring Fling - 10:00 AM: Our indie craft fair will showcase the work of artists, crafters & designers. Our FREE family & pet-friendly event will allow you to experience the indie craft scene in Tarrant County. Will Rogers Memorial Center, 3401 W. Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth. www.funkyfinds.us/springfling.html

Dallas Outstanding family entertainment is abundant at Slappy’s Puppet Playhouse. Marionette Show: Fridays - 10:30 AM, Saturdays - 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM, Sundays - 2:00 PM. Variety Show: Saturdays 4:00 PM. www.slappysplayhouse.com

21 Tuesday Southlake Coppell/Valley Ranch Early Childhood PTA – Kids Outing-Central Market Tour, Southlake, 10:30am, Tour and lunch at the cafe. www.cvrecpta.org

22 Wednesday Richardson Jewish Family Services presents Mo Rocca in “For the Love of Family”- 7:30 PM. Purchase tickets through the Eisemann Center Ticket Office online or by phone. Hill Performance Hall Tickets: $45-$145. Eisemann Center Ticket Office. 972-744-4650. www.jfsdallas.org/family

25 Saturday Plano Seton Soles 5K Walk/Run - 8:00 AM: 5K St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2700 W. Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano, TX 972-596-5505 www.setonparish.org Aledo Run Walk or Crawl for Our Kids - 8:00 AM: 5K/1K Aledo Bearcat Stadium, Aledo, TX 817-599-4536. www.aledoadvocats.com Coppell Girls on the Run 5K - 8:00 AM: 5K Andrew Brown Park West, 360 N. Denton Tap Rd, Coppell, TX 972-824-9909. www.gotrdfw.org The Colony Kids Chase by the Lake - 8:00 AM: Giving Kids A Running Start! Divisions for Girls and Boys! Stewart Creek Park. $8/child. Family discounts! For more info call (972)625-1106. www.ci.the-colony.tx.us Dallas Butterfly Gardening Workshop - 9:00 AM: What: Learn how to make a butterfly garden. All 3 dates fill up fast; sign up early! Cost: Registration required. $60; $50 for garden members. www.TexasDiscoveryGardens.org Dallas Paint Yer Pottery’s Charity Celebration: Blessed 2ba Blessing - benefiting Network of Community Ministries.11am to 11pm. Come and paint pottery and 100% of the proceeds will be donated. Bring a pantry food item and receive a gift card for a flat ornament to paint on your next visit. Buy a lunch

Go to www.MomsOutLoud.com to see reviews on local businesses written by Moms just like you and win prizes for writing your own. You’ll also find all these events and more online in our searchable calendar!

Princeton Princeton Onion Festival 5K Run - 10:00 AM: 5K Princeton ISD Stadium, Princeton, TX 469-952-5400. www.princetononionfestival.com

26 Sunday Hurst Family Fun Day: Join us for an afternoon of family fun honoring children and families affected by autism and in recognition of National Autism Awareness Month. Enjoy children’s activities, door prizes, silent auction/raffle, vendors, putt putt tournament, and fun! www.dfwcenterforautism.org

28 Tuesday North Richland Hills Pivotal Response Training & Increasing Initiations: PRT is a naturalistic treatment approach developed by Robert L. Koegel & Laura Schreibman. In this one-day workshop, we will discuss the basic components of PRT. www.dfwcenterforautism.org

29 Wednesday Irving Repertoire that Rocks - 7:00 PM: Join the Lone Star Youth Orchestra for a concert that is sure to bring down the house! Carpenter Performance Hall 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving. $5.00 to $10.00. Buy tickets for this show online now! (972)252.ARTS. www.irvingartscenter.org

30 Thursday Farmers Branch Lonestar Ukulele Festival will take place at the Metropolitan Community Church, 2735 Villa Creek Drive #290, Farmers Branch. For more information check out www.lonestarukefest.com

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. Located at 3050 N. Josey Ln #110, Carrollton, 75007. Visit www.bounceu.com or call 972-939-5000 for more information or to schedule your group’s playdate. Visit www.northtexaskids.com for available coupons. www.bounceu.com 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. www.thegymnasticsplace.com 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.

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Flower Mound Multiple story-times for children at the 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 Check out Anime Daze at the library the first Wednesday of each month from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.. Join us to watch the latest movies, share your original artwork, eat snacks and win prizes! For more information, call 972-874-6167. 3030 Broadmoor Ln, Flower Mound 75022. Visit the Town of Flower Mound Web Site for more information. 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. It’s the best deal for a sitter in town! Open Gym, foam pit, games, music and Pizza dinner. www. excitegymandcheer.com or call 972-874-9663 Flower Mound 972-874-8500 Highland Village for more information and reservations (Ages 3 11) www.excitegymandcheer.com 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 First Choice Emergency Room Preschool programs available for Mom’s groups and Preschools at 4851 Legacy Dr. #301 Frisco. Call 214-618-6800 to schedule your tour of the ER. It is a fun and educational experience. Tours 10am any weekday. If your group or class cannot come to the ER, First Choice will bring the Teddy Bear visits the ER program to your school or group. Frisco Wiggly Play Center: Dancing with Dorothy 11:30 Thursdays, and Wiggle With Wags 11:30 Fridays. 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 Join us for Storytime for Children every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:00 AM, Spanish Storytime for children, every Wednesday at 10:30 AM. Barnes & Noble - 4100 Deer Creek, Highland Village 972-966-0099 crm2271@bn.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 at 10 a.m. Stories are followed by a fun craft. ‘Seafaring Tales’ is the July theme. Call (972) 252-7558 x221 for more info. Little Elm Multiple children’s story times. Bring your fam-

ily for a special reading time in the Little Elm Library. Located in the Town Hall building at 100 W. Eldorado Pkwy 75068. Contact 214-975-0430 or visit www.littleelm.com to verify changes.

Little Elm Saturdays 1 - 3 pm Saturday Movie Matinee Bring your family for a special time together at the Little Elm Library. Located in the Town Hall building at 100 W. Eldorado Pkwy 75068. Contact 214-975-0430 or www.littleelm.com McKinney Second Saturdays Downtown McKinney: A celebration of the arts and the community with live entertainment, spirits, and food. Galleria d’Arte is on the corner of Kentucky and Louisiana at 100 E Louisiana St. Art Institute of McKinney is at 113 S Kentucky Street. 972-548-7830 7 PM - 10 PM www.artinstituteofmckinney.com McKinney McKinney Farmers’ Market, Saturdays 8AM - 1PM. Downtown McKinney at the southeast corner of Church Street & Louisiana Street. Locally grown produce, flowers, herbs, local honey, farm fresh eggs, chicken, turkey, beef and pork from grass-fed animals, a natural soap and lotion-maker and chair massages. For information on becoming a vendor call 214-850-0886 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 10:45-12:00 & Wed. 7-8 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! Family Worship Center in Princeton, TX on Highway 380 @ Tickety Drive. 469.450.7437.www.groovekids.com Richardson Peppermint Baby Boutique holds regular classes. Babywearing Class, Elimination Communication, Infant Potty Training Workshop, Baby Sign Language, Cloth Diapering Workshop, Prenatal Yoga.Postnatal Yoga. Peppermint Baby Boutique 1778 N. Plano Rd., Suite 100 in Richardson. Registration, class schedules and information: www.peppermint.com or 214-623-5080 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. Our developmental drama program includes speech training, creative movement, structured improvisation, character & script comprehension, dialogue development, auditioning & performance techniques and theatre games and activities. 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. The first week each player is given a full set of hockey equipment to use during the program. Kids will skate (4) 45 minute on ice sessions designed to introduce kids to the excitement of the sport. (214) GO SKATE www.drpepperstarcenter.com

Various A fun and exciting meetup group for couples and families to fullfill all of their social needs! We have family nights, couple only nights, playdates for kids of all ages, mom’s night/day out, and of course daddy days! 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. information@aecpta.com .www.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. Possibly the biggest reason for becoming involved is to meet, socialize and network with other parents in the Carrollton area. For more information about the Carrollton Early Childhood PTA please visit our website www.cecpta.org. Collin County The Autism society of Collin County is an organization dedicated to providing support and resources to those families affected by Autism. 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) Sign up for ASCC’s Group E-mail list: groups.yahoo. com/group/ascc2/join 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. As the most active moms group in North Texas, we offer daily playdates, field trips,

supper get-togethers, Mom’s Nights Out and family events too! moms.meetup.com/994/

bill) or proof of school enrollment (report card) is required. www.friscocares.org

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. We offer monthly meetings, play groups, children’s activities and adult special interest groups, the C/VR ECPTA provides plenty of fun and support for parents and their children. We meet the 2nd Monday of every month, 9:30am11:00am at the Coppell Family YMCA, 146 Town Center Blvd., Coppell Texas. Childcare for the general meeting is free and available through the YMCA, reservations are required. Deby 214-234-8290. www.cvrecpta.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

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. For information regarding the monthly speaker, call Bob 214-351-1985 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 called The Warmline.. Nonprofit group Dallas Association for Parent Education runs a free telephone helpline for parents, grandparents, and caregivers You’ll get a caring listener trained in normal child development to help with parenting issues, parenting resources, and referrals. Phone hours: Mon- Fri, 9am to 3pm. Warmline number: 972-699-7742. dallasparents@hotmail.com www.dallasparents.org Dallas/Plano/Frisco Far North Dallas Early Childhood PTA (FNDECPTA) is dedicated to facilitating an educational and supportive network of parents of infants, toddlers and pre-school aged children. The organization sponsors organized playgroups, mom’s night out, children’s activities, Bunko, holiday parties, special guest speakers and more. We meet in Room 133 at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd. at Plano Parkway. 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! We provide support, encouragement, helpful information, listening ears, friendship, food and fun to all of our members who are “multi-blessed.” We meet the 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. Each Wednesday (September - April). Primera Bautista Iglesia 8581 5th Street, in Frisco (corner of 5th and Ash). 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

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. Monthly programs with childcare one Thursday per month, playgroups for various ages, a listserve community, a Special Needs Service Provider Directory, Parent Education and more. www.lisdseptsa.txpta.org or (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. If you have any questions about the Little Elm Support Group, you may contact our facilitator, Tracy O’Mara at 972-987-4010. For more information about other programs sponsored by the Little Elm Library, call (214) 975-0430. McKinney DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids are programs offered regularly at McKinney Fellowship Bible Church. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m., in room 107. Cost: $30 for the workbook, materials and snacks. Learn more about the programs at www.divorcecare.org, but call 972-547-7000 to register. McKinney MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of McKinney Central. Join us for fun daytime activities where you’ll find the support you need, and build long lasting friendships for you and your children! 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. Activities every week including playgroups, park days, and outings as well as a monthly MOMS Night Out. For more info, e-mail momsmckinneyeast@yahoo.com or 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. For more information: 972-548-8788. www.academicsplus.com Murphy/Sachse MOMS Club of Murphy/Sachse if a non-profit support group for at home mothers living in Murphy or Sachse. Monthly business meeting, park outings, play groups, MOMS Night Out, and field trips as well as many more. Children welcome! Contact us at murphy_sachse_moms@ yahoo.com for additional information.

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

North Coppell MOMs Club of Coppell - NORTH (north of Sandy Lake to 121). Join us at Going Bonkers in Lewisville for our monthly meeting on the first Wednesday of every month: 10AM. Please call us at 866.841.9139 ext. 3555 or email momsclubofcoppell@onebox. com. www.momsclubofcoppell.org 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 North Richland Hills Asperger’s Support Meeting. 1st Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Parents of children of all ages are welcome. Childcare available with limited space. 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. www.featnt.org North Richland Hills Autism Support Meeting. 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Childcare available with limited space. 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. www.featnt.org 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. 1-877-24-SCOLI or www.medicalcenterofplano.com Plano S.A.F.E.(Support and Activities for Food allergy Education) classes provide children an opportunity to learn more about food allergies, build selfesteem and confidence, and have fun with new

friends who share a common bond. Classes are $15 per child. The Medical Center of Plano. Medical Office Building III, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano, Texas 75075. www.safewithfoodallergies.com.

Meeting is the first Friday of every month, at 9:30 AM, at the Atonement Lutheran Church on Legacy just west of Coit. momsclubnc@yahoo. com. www.planomomsclub.com

Plano Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Parent Support Group. We welcome all parents coping with a child with SPD. We generally meet the first Monday of the month at various locations. Contact Christine Chavez at chavez.slp@gmail.com or Wendy Park at wlpark@sbcglobal.net for more information. www.spdnetwork.org/parentconnection/us.html

Plano MOMS Club of Plano-North. Monthly Social Meeting is the first Wednesday of every month, at 10:00am, at the Baha’i Faith Plano Center at 4200 Hedgcoxe (just West of Coit Rd). For more information contact membership@momsclubplanonorth or 972-464-1958. www.momslubplanonorth.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 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 CHILD & FAMILY Guidance Center. Contact our Plano Office at 4030 West Plano Parkway, Suite 211. 972.612.5989 www.childrenandfamilies.org 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 La Leche League of Plano meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month-10:30 to 11:45 am at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3601 West 15th 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.

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 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 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 support group at their office in Richardson. For more info call the DAPE office at 972-699-0420, dallasparents@ hotmail.com www.dallasparents.org Rockwall Are you a stay-at-home mom, or working mom, of an infant, toddler or preschooler in the Rock-

wall area? Rockwallsahm is a group of local moms dedicated to providing our kids a safe place for socialization, physical activity and FUN! Members are screened and there is no fee. For more information: www.rockwallsahm.com

Various RISE was organized “To help persons with physical challenges gain independence through a learning experience in adaptive outdoor adventures and sporting programs.” RISE membership and programs are FREE for qualified participants. www.riseadventures.org or contact Joel Hendrix at jhendrix@riseadventures.org. 469-762-5075. Wylie Moms & More: Be you a Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle, Grandparent or Nanny, we welcome all caregivers from Wylie and the surrounding communities. We meet the first Thursday of each month. Children welcome. For more information: Diva@wyliemomsandmore.org. www. wyliemomsandmore.org

Submitting Events We welcome your submissions of family-oriented 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 Pete must adjust to a world that

Double Fudge

rapidly changes the situations of the people around him; all the

A Review by Alexandria Battle

while putting up with the usual

by Judy Blume 224 pages • Ages 9-12 • Puffin (April 5, 2007)

insults from his neighbor Sheila

Tubman and corralling his brother

and strange cousins. Read on your

own to find out how Pete deals with the insanity—more of which can Judy Blume, the author of the

story I chose this month, was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where

she took to spinning stories in her

thoughts. She graduated from New York University and was named a

Distinguished Alumna by the same. She founded The Kids Fund (an

as a kid, because Farley Drexel

the shoe store, and insist at all times

be found in Tales of a Fourth Grade

annoying younger sibling everyone

own handmade money) would

the Great, Superfudge, and Fudge-a-

Hatcher was the exact type of

both imagines and dreads having,

yet can’t help but love. And no one is able to keep from laughing as

Fudge pulls stunt after stunt in his

that he and his “Fudge Bucks” (his

Nothing, Otherwise Known as Sheila

buy him whatever he liked. The

mania.

situation quickly turns from a “phase” to a “big problem”.

The plot thickens when some

innocent, childlike way.

obscure family members from

National Book Foundations Medal,

Pete must, along with the rest of

meet Pete’s family on a trip to the

wonderful books (for both children

new and unhealthy obsession with

education-related group), received a and has had 80 million copies of her and adults) sold, and translated into thirty-one different languages.

The Fudge books are a short

series that always made me laugh 44

In Double Fudge, Fudge’s brother

the family, deal with the boy’s

money—which would not be so bad if Fudge did not ask uncomfortable questions about money in public, throw money-related tantrums at

North Texas Kids • April 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Hawaii, the “Heavenly Hatchers”, nation’s capital. Not only, in Pete’s mind, do they not fit in at all with his side of the family, his “new”

uncle and aunt have equally odd

children—including another Fudge! With these problems and more,

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Princess & Pirates Dress Up Parties

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Frisco Youth Triathalon

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Angels of Care Pediatric

Gotta Dance

Pump It Up Jr.

Gray School of Music

Rainforest Cafe

16, 21

Greenhill School

RBI Baseball

Guardian Pet Sitters

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Guildhall Academy at SMU

Rich Educational Consulting

Guy Mezger’s Combat

Robots 4 U

Apple Creek Private School Aqua Fit Swim & Wellness Aria Music Arlington Parks & Recs

Art A Rama

16, 21

27, 37

21 17, 34

Baylor, Our Children’s House

Healthy Texan Pediatrics

Rockwall Indoor Sports Expo

Behavioral Innovations

Heard Natural Science Museum

Rover Dramawerks

Huntington Learning Center

Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch

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Sheena’s Dance Academy

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J’s Art Studio

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24, 46

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Speaker Coop

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Capricorn Equestrian

KidsCare Therapy

Speech TX

Center Stage Drama

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Spicar’s Martial Arts

Child Play Music

Kreative Kids Partyz

Sports Fundamentals

11, 20, 34

SS Noah

Club Z

27, 34

Learning RX

Colonial Equestrian

Lewisville ISD Special Education PTSA 12

St. Marks

Color Me Mine

Lil’ Trax Sports Academy (PSA)

State Farm Insurance

Congregation Anshai Torah

Lorie Burch, Attorney

Studio 3 Dance

Custom Sports Products

Mad Science

Sweet & Sassy

Dallas International School

Made of Sugar & Spice

22, 31

Sylvan

Dallas Summer Musicals

Matco

Tatu’s All Star

Dallas Zoo

Mathnasium

25, 34

Temple Shalom Preschool

Dance Force One

McDonald’s - O’Reillys

The Artist Within

Dr Pepper StarCenter

Minette Riordan, Ph.D

The Child Care Source

21, 40

Moffat Enterprises

The Ice at Stonebriar

Dynamic Therapy

Moms Out Loud

The Purple Cow

Eagle Gymnastics

Monkey Business

The Reading Ranch

Einstein Kidz

Motion Center for Dance

The Tutoring Place

Eisenbergs Skatepark

Museum of Nature & Science

The Wiggly Play Center

Emler Swim School

Musikgarten

Enrichment Chess

Epic MedStaff Home Healthcare

ER Centers of America

Paige’s Swim School

Evelyn’s Janitorial

Paint Yer Pottery

Everybody Fits

Planet Pizza

Drama Kids International

Excite Gym & Cheer

22, 40

26, 30

Therapy 2000

Noah’s Ark Animal Workshop

11, 30

Under the Umbrella

North Texas Kids May Expo

18, 48

US Toy Company

Plano Baseball Association

6 22 8

Water Angels / Aqua Fit

7, 28

White Dove Montessori

Word of Mouth Productions

Words R Me

Family Clay Prints

Plano Sports Authority

23, 37

Work at Home United

Family e-Guide

Planting Seeds Christian Counseling 30

YMCA Metro Dallas

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Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 12pm to 5pm FREE Family Expo benefiting 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 for more information: 972-516-9070 or 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.