North Texas Kids October 2010 Issue

N rth Texas Your Family Guide to Raising Happy, Healthy Kids

October 2010

FREE

www.northtexaskids.com

Kids

In this issue:

Emily Wang, age 11

• Fuel Your Family for Fall • What you Need to Know about Kids & Concussions • 3rd Annual North Texas Kids Halloween Expo • Hope & Support for Kids with Cancer • October Calendar of Events

Saturday, October 30 • 10am - 4pm Plano Centre

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North Texas Kids • September 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

26th ANNUAL

THE NUTCRACKER

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RENAISSANCE, HOTELS & RESORTS

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This performance is funded in part by the City of Richardson through the City of Richardson Arts Commission.

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

3

Contents October

l

Volume 8 No. 10

6

8

13

6

Fuel Your Family for Fall

11

Focus on our Advertisers

12

Kids in the Kitchen - Halloween Treats

8

Art Beyond Sight at the DMA

16

Enrichment Guide

19

Scarecrow Craft

13

What you Need to Know about Kids & Concussions

20

Emma’s Restaurant Review

20

Mandala Coloring Contest

14

3rd Annual North Texas Kids Halloween Expo

20

Alexandria’s Book Review

21

Halloween Coloring Page

19

Hope & Support for Kids with Cancer

21

Family Resource Guide

22

Ticket Giveaway

22

Family-Focused Programs from MCP

23

October Calendar of Events

25

Halloween Word Scramble

26

Developing Language Skills

All new registrations in October will receive 10 Boo-tiful Halloween Crafts Go to NorthTexasKids.com today to sign up!

4

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Note from the Publisher

Minette Riordan, Ph.D.

Marathon Kids, Marathon Moms, Math, Monsters and Mandalas!

Whew, that is a lot of Ms and a lot going on this month. All my personal and professional passions are mixing up, alliteration included of course. Do you remember alliteration? My kids love to remind me, it's where the first letter in a string of words has the same first sound, like the title of this column or buzzing bumble bees. Reminds you of high school poetry, doesn't it? But back to my list of M-words, there is never a dull moment at North Texas Kids or at the Riordan-Dobson home. So here goes: 1. What is Marathon Kids®?

According to their website: Marathon Kids® is a free, fifteenyear-old, trademarked, incremental, school and community based fitness program. It is a six month endurance building running/walking, nutrition and schoolyard gardening program for K-5th graders and their families. What does that mean for you and me? It is a fun, family-focused way to get our kids and ourselves off the couch and Moving. My family will be participating this year for the first time. Together, we will walk or run 26.2 miles in 6 months.

We are excited to get moving together!

Join us and tell us how it goes! Get more info at www.marathonkids.com or ask your elementary school if they support the program. If not, encourage your school to sign up! The Kick-Off Celebration is Sat. Oct. 30, which makes me sad. Our family will miss the celebration as we will be decked out for Halloween as NTK hosts the 3rd Annual Halloween Expo at the Plano Centre on that same day.

2. Marathon Moms?

I know a lot of you are runners, walkers, joggers and other fitness buffs.

I need your moral support. My husband and I are committing to run the White Rock Half Marathon on December 5 in Dallas as a great way to celebrate our year of getting fit and spending more time together. Long runs are way easier when you do them with someone you love! Or at least a group of friends you enjoying spending several hours with.

This will be my 3rd Half Marathon but it's been 3 years since the last one, without much running in between...

Any other runners out there? I'd love to hear your stories, your successes and your trials. I am sure by November I will be complaining about sore leg muscles and trying to fit my runs in my already crazy schedule.

3. Math?

I am thrilled that the new SciTech Discovery Center is having it's grand opening on October 2 with their exciting new exhibit, Math Midway.

According to the description online, "The Math Midway exhibition provides an interactive, hands-on tour of mathematical concepts, using a carnival style. The individual exhibits include exciting and surprising activities that relate math principles to games and events you would find at a typical carnival, fair, or circus. Designed to challenge visitors of varying ages, abilities, and learning styles, this 4,500 square foot exhibit includes an array of challenging, stimulating and engaging activities." Find out more online at www.mindstretchingfun.org. The SciTech Discovery Center is going to be a great addition to Collin County and a great compliment to the wonderful programs at the Museum of Nature and Science. Your biggest challenge will be deciding which one to visit!

4. Monsters?

I don't know about you, but I love Halloween! On Saturday, October 30 we are calling all monsters, goblins and princesses to join us for the 3rd Annual North Texas Kids Family Expo at the Plano Centre for a costume contest, coloring contest, live entertainment, trick or treating from over 100 vendors, face painting, kids' crafts and more!

We had over 5,000 people there and so many beautiful, amazing, outstanding costumes. We are revamping our contest this year and it will be on the main stage at 2pm! The event is from 10am to 4pm at the Plano Centre. More details on the back cover or online at www.northtexaskids.com/expo 5. What is a Mandala?

A beautiful, meditative form of art best known in the Buddhist and Native American traditions. All the details are on pg. 20. We are bringing an international flair to the expo this year with Ashraia and inviting children to create beautiful mandalas of their own.

Grand prize is worth over $200!

And speaking of beautiful art, make sure you check out Art in October, celebrating the Dallas Arts District.

Opening day is Saturday, October 2 but I am excited about the Free Family Celebration on Sunday, October 31, celebrating the art of disguise and costume. See the ad on pg. 9 for details.

As always, our calendar is full of great events, outings, articles and information on how to keep your family healthy, entertained and enlightened!

Happy reading,

Publisher/Editor

Minette Riordan minette@northtexaskids.com

Web/Media Designer

Brad Dobson bdobson@northtexaskids.com

Editor of Sports Scoop Mike Kravik

mike@northtexaskids.com

Office/Sales Manager Heidi Schlabs

heidi@northtexaskids.com

Account Executives

Cindy Johnson Gail Kirkland Nancy Luttinger

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 2010 by North Texas Kids©. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. North Texas Kids encourages your submission of articles, children’s artwork, photographs and ideas. We reserve the right to edit all submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication. Recommended article length is 500 to 800 words. Viewpoints of the articles are not necessarily the viewpoints of North Texas Kids. Materials will not be returned.

Advertising is accepted at the discretion of the Publisher. Advertisers assume all liability for the content of their printed advertisements and agree to indemnify North Texas Kids and its publisher for any and all claims and expenses arising therefrom.

Cover Artist...

Emily Emily Wang is a 6th grader at Trinity Christian Academy in Addison, Texas. She is a 3rd generation Chinese-American who was born in Norman, Oklahoma. In addition to her school and church activities, she also attends Chinese language school every Sunday afternoon. She enjoys reading, writing, and drawing as well as the challenge of her dance and piano lessons. She feels most happy and free while performing her ballet dances on stage!

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 • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

5

Our Heart is in Caring for You!

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

Do you know the Cause of your child’s learning struggles?

9 Simple Steps...

to

Fuel our Family This Fall

by Geri Moran, NMD

Our children are finally back to school. Our lives have returned to a more predictable schedule, or at least organized chaos. What a perfect time to re-think what we're going to feed them in order to sustain our families demanding schedule during the busy Fall and Holiday seasons ahead.

The NINE SIMPLE STEPS outlined below, by renowned pediatrician Dr. William Sears, will teach your child to take a role in meal planning and encourage their involvement in food selection. “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it” {Prov. 22:6). Empower your child to make wise choices at school for a nutritious meal to boost performance. Here are some practical, concrete suggestions:

1. Shape Young Tastes

From an early age, offer your children a wide variety of colorful foods. You’ll be programming them to accept and enjoy greater variety throughout their life. They will develop a taste for Real Whole Food, not packaged, processed, factory junk food.

Did you know that children need to try a new food 5-8 times before they will learn to acquire a taste for it?

2. Feed your Family the Right Carbs

Growing bodies need complex carbohydrates to grow, think and play. Carbs should provide 50% of daily caloric intake. If children are very active or athletes they require even more! “Good-for-You” carbs include fruit, veggies, nuts, seeds and whole grains -- the protein and fiber steadily control the entry of sugar into the bloodstream. “Bad-for-You” carbs are factory processed junk food. They are high in sugar, have little fiber or protein, and are often the cause of mood swings: tired, grumpy children. Does this sound familiar?

3. Feed your Family the Right Fats

Call today to get the answers you have been looking for!

Avoid "low fat" foods. Growing children need healthy fats as a source of energy. Did you know that about two thirds of our brain is composed fat? Examples are nuts, nut butters, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, avocados, salmon, tuna, olive oil, flax seeds.

Avoid factory fats, hydrogenated or trans-fats, since they are chemically altered. They are added to most processed foods to increase shelf life. But your body cannot process them!

4. Feed your Family Grow Foods

Grow foods come from Nature, not from a factory. Green-light, go-for-it foods are high-performance fuel for your body and they include fruit, vegetables, beans, nuts, legumes and whole grains. You can eat them any time and they will nourish you.

5. Raise a Grazer

Plano/Park Cities 972-267-8900 Frisco 972-432-6544 www.LearningRX.com 6

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Eating 5 to 6 smaller 'mini-meals' or snacks throughout the day can actually help you and your child to lose weight and not overeat at meal time. Create a handy attractive "nibble tray" of colorful finger foods... broccoli trees, carrot coins, orange wheels, celery sticks, hard boiled eggs... kids can help themselves during the day, or quickly add to their school lunch.

6. Start the Day with a Brainy Breakfast

Plan to ‘break your fast’ with complex carbs and proteins, like oatmeal, whole grain cereal with fruit, or eggs. Did you know that teachers can tell, from classroom behavior, which students eat healthy breakfasts? They notice better grades, better listening, less mood swings, and fewer absences. Our brain uses 25% of all food eaten. Food is fuel.

7. Feed your Family Lots of Fruit and Vegetables

Fruit and vegetables are Mother Nature's home-grown pharmacy, natural whole foods from your garden or a farm. Each has a unique set of vitamins, enzymes and minerals, called phyto-chemicals (plant-based) which protect and nourish us. They are a total package, so forget the boxed or bagged factory foods. Think outside the box!

8. Take your Children to the Supermarket Before you moan and groan, did you know this can be one giant nutritional classroom? Remember that wholesome live food is found around the perimeter of the

store. Have a scavenger hunt for the most naturally-colorful foods. With older children, read and compare package labels. The lessons kids learn from you now, they carry into adulthood, when they will be feeding your grandchildren! What an investment!

9. Add a Whole-Food Based Supplement to your Family Diet

Did you know the USDA now recommends that children eat 7 to 9 servings of fruit and vegetables daily, and 9 to 13 for adults? Even with good intentions and great meal planning, this is challenging. JuicePlus+ helps bridge the gap. It is 17 different whole raw fruits, vegetables and grains in an easy-to-swallow capsule or delicious soft chewable. A well-researched convenient and affordable way to increase your family's nutritional intensity.

Our children are our future leaders. Feed them well, for one day in the not-sodistant future, they may be running your family business, or even our country.

If not you, then who? If not now, then when?

To contact Geri or to schedule a NINE SIMPLE STEPS Family Nutrition Class email her at geri@got-health.com.

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North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

7

Birthday Party Fun!

Art Beyond Sight

We do it all for you, so relax & enjoy

$69.99

+ tax

for up to 10 children $6.10 for each additional child

• • • •

Allen McKinney Plano Richardson

by Amanda Blake

Party includes: Happy Meal , Cake, Ice Cream, Decorations, ®

Party Favors, a Host or Hostess and a Gift for the Birthday Child.

To make reservations: Visit www.OreillyMCD.com or call our birthday party hotline at 972.985.9285.

Now Available 7 days a week!

No deposit required.

Locally owned and operated by Chuck and Julie O’Reilly

8

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Imagine visiting an art museum to see your favorite painting by Claude Monet or Jackson Pollock. Now imagine how you might experience those works without your vision. How would you “see” them?

Visit the Dallas Museum of Art in October to learn new ways to experience art as we celebrate the eighth annual Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month. Organized

by Art Education for the Blind, Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month raises public awareness about making art and culture a part of life for adults and children affected by sight loss. According to the Art Education for the Blind website, the Art Beyond Sight Around the World Collaborative “recognizes that art education and exposure to the arts are crucial for the advancement of many key issues in the education and rehabilitation of people who are blind.”

This year, in conjunction with the Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month, the Dallas Museum of Art is making several programs for children and adults accessible to visitors who have vision impairment. Additionally, to educate sighted participants about the importance of art education for the blind, our programming will focus on ways to experience art using senses other than vision.

We are lucky to have artist John Bramblitt featured as the visiting artist in the Center for Creative Connections at the Dallas Museum of Art. John will be collaborating with us on several programs throughout the month.

Art was always a major part of John’s life, but it was not until he lost his sight in 2001 that he began to paint. John’s paintings are intensely personal and are mostly taken from real people and events in his life. His workshops are unique in the art world in that they not only span the gap between beginning and professional artists, but also include adaptive techniques for people with disabilities.

John has previously been featured in several programs at the Museum. In two painting workshops last October, families learned about John’s technique of sightless painting which involves focusing on the textures of paint to distinguish the color of the paint. We mixed flour into the red paint, birdseed into the yellow, sand into the white paint, and added nothing to the blue paint. Participants had the chance to touch the paint to explore the various textures before choosing a raised line drawing created by John. Participants each put on a blindfold before John explained to everyone how to visualize and to use their sense of touch, rather than their sight, to paint. After determining the color of paint with touch alone, each painter used his or her non-painting hand to trace the line drawing and decide where to begin painting. One father and daughter even challenged each other to see who could make the best blindfolded painting.

John was also a guest teacher at several of our art camps this summer. Campers had the rare opportunity to meet a real artist, ask questions about his paintings, and meet John’s guide dog. John told the kids that they could ask him anything that they wanted to about being blind, and answered all of the questions good-naturedly. He even brought in his paintings to let the kids see and touch the works of art.

John spent time playing blindfolded guessing games with the campers, he asked the children describe works of art to him in the galleries, and we described colors to one another based on our senses. John talked with the campers about a series of paintings he is working on about sound; he paints colors and shapes that he visualizes when he hears music. In the studio, we listened to different songs and the children painted the sounds that they heard while blindfolded. Some of the kids got so into it that they ended up painting right off of their canvas and onto the table!

We have had some exciting experiences with John at the Museum and look forward to many more. Join us in October for a variety of Art Beyond Sight programming that will include hands-on activities, ways of seeing art without vision, gallery discussions, art-making, and demonstrations of his process and life as a blind painter.

We will kick off the month with a free drop-in studio program, Sightless Studio Creations, on October 2 in the Center for Creative Connections. Studio experiences will begin every 45 minutes starting at 10:00 a.m. and will last until 3:00 p.m. Instead of using eyesight, families will rely on their imagination, creativity, memory, and sense of touch to create a unique painting. During the workshop, participants will have the chance to discuss the process of painting with John Bramblitt. Additionally, we have programs featuring John that families can register for: preschool programs, a homeschool class, and a family workshop.

Geared more for an adult audience, every October Thursday night program in the Center for Creative Connections will also feature John.

For more information please visit www.dm-art.org/Family/AccessPrograms/index.htm. For questions, please call 214-922-1251 or email Access@ DallasMuseumofArt.org. To learn more about Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month, please visit www.ArtBeyondSight.org. To learn more about John Bramblitt, please visit www.bramblitt.net.

This October, join the DMA and the entire Dallas Arts District as we launch a new season of exciting performances, exhibitions, events, and programs.

Spotlighted events include • FREE Opening Celebration on Saturday, October 2 • Museum Block Party on Friday, October 15 • FREE Family Celebration on Sunday, October 31, celebrating the art of disguise and costume

For a schedule of activities, visit TheDallasArtsDistrict.org/ArtinOctober.

The Dallas Museum of Art is supported in part by the generosity of Museum members and donors and by the citizens of Dallas through the City of Dallas/Office of Cultural Affairs and the Texas Commission on the Arts.

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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It’s Party Time!!

Come Experience Our

Private Parties!

We provide a private play area so it’s just you and your guests enjoying the party.

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Pump It Up of Dallas 9201 Forest Ln., #100 • Dallas, TX 75243

THERAPY 2000: The North Texas leader in home-based therapy for children

Encountering Space A new exhibition in the Center for Creative Connections Come experience the Center for Creative Connections, featuring the new exhibition Encountering Space.

Whether you are 2 or 102, you will find something to inspire and engage you in this exciting, interactive exhibition.

We treat children for. . .

See differently See unexpectedly.

See art in a new way.

DallasMuseumofArt.org Encountering Space is organized by the Dallas Museum of Art. The exhibition is presented

by MetLife Foundation. Air transportation provided by American Airlines.

10

The Dallas Museum of Art is supported in part by the generosity of Museum members and donors and by the citizens of Dallas through the City of Dallas/Office of Cultural Affairs and the Texas Commission won the Arts.

Robert Delaunay, Eiffel Tower (detail), 1924, oil on canvas, Dallas Museum of Art, giftof the Meadows Foundation, Incorporated, 1981.105, © L&M Services, Amsterdam

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Feeding & Swallowing Disorders (including the need for Vital Stim Therapy) Cerebral Palsy • Neurological Disorders • Down Syndrome Developmental Delay • Sensory Processing Disorders and many others A comprehensive hearing screening is administered to all children admitted for speech therapy services.

To obtain physical, occupational or speech therapy services for your child, call THERAPY 2000...

214-467-9787 or 877-626-7003 • www.T2000.com

Welcome to our Family

Focus on our Advertisers

Learning Express Learning Express is a specialty toy store for children ages 0-13. We are the leader in specialty toys and children’s gift category, providing a fun and friendly shopping environment, a knowledgeable sales staff and expert advice for parents looking for the perfect toy.

At Learning Express we pride ourselves on the quality and the uniqueness of our toy selection. Our shelves are stocked with unique and innovative products that encourage learning through play. Our product mix includes toys, books, games, stationery, construction toys, dolls, plush, dress up, puzzles, developmental toys, outdoor toys, jewelry, and learning aids.

The stores offer toy experts that assist in age appropriate toy selection.

We have been in business for 14 years in Plano and 7 years in Frisco. We just added another location in Firewheel Town Center in Garland. Come over and play at any of our three locations. We are open 7 days a week.

Plano: 972 473 8697, Frisco: 214 387 8697 and Garland: 972 675 2021.

Mill-Again Stables Does your child want to learn to ride a horse? Many people love horses yet owning one does not fit into their life. This is where we come in! MillAgain Stables in Plano, Texas offers English riding lessons in a safe and fun environment; beginning with a private lesson teaching core skills of balance, control and confidence. From there new riders will be placed into classes based on their riding ability.

You’re invited to come visit us, with no pressure or sales pitch to see what riding is all about. Horses change lives. Horses can be your dearest guides, and most profound teachers. They can give young people confidence and selfesteem. People of all ages are welcome to come learn to ride.

Mill-Again Stables offers year round riding with indoor and outdoor arenas. To learn more about riding lessons or to schedule a visit call Candee Carlson 469-853-5718 or visit us at www.mill-againstables.com.

The University of Texas at Dallas & School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences

Resources for Parents Resources & Referral Program

Infant Development Program

• Free consultations for parents with concerns about a developing child or adolescent

• Low-cost developmental screenings to identify delays in children’s language, motor, cognitive, or social development

• Referrals for a wide array of services from an extensive database of child and family resources

• Immediate feedback, including screening results, recommendations for home activities, and referrals to therapeutic programs

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Catch the latest news on child development at : http://ccf.utdallas.edu/blog

Pump It UP What’s so special about Pump It Up? Pump It Up continues to be one of the most popular party destinations for children and adults. But why?

Sure, we’ve got a great facility and yes, we’ve got really cool inflatables and of course, our staff is exceptional. But the answer is even more basic than that. There are five main things that separate Pump It Up from other party destinations: * Customer Service: Our staff is truly committed to making our customers feel especially appreciated and cared for while in our facility. We consistently receive high marks from our customers in the area of customer service. * Privacy: At Pump It Up, your event is always private and we never intermingle parties. Our facility was purposely built to maintain a level of privacy our customers expect and deserve. * Safety: Every child watches an age-appropriate safety video and each event is accompanied by a minimum of 2 trained Pump It Up Staff Attendants. Pump It Up staff is exposed to three phases of training before they ever work any events. * Cleanliness: We’re proud to admit that at Pump It Up, we’re maniacal about cleanliness! Every night after our customers leave the facility, our staff spends roughly 90 minutes cleaning our facility top to bottom. It makes our day when customers tell us our bathrooms are cleaner than the bathrooms in their own homes! * A Fun Atmosphere: After all, we ARE a party facility and what’s a party facility without the FUN! At Pump It Up, our staff is encouraged to allow the “big kid” in them to shine through, contributing to a fun, festive environment for every event.

Please visit us online: www.pumpitupparty.com or call for more information: 972-792-9663.

use your pots And pAns for more thAn Just cooKing mAc And cheese.

Once you’ve made music with your infant, toddler, or preschooler in one of our joyful, research-based classes, you’ve got the ingredients to bring the fun home.

Just add a few pots. Pans. Spatulas. And you’re ready to move, sing, and satisfy your appetite for fun.

(972) 267-4452

• musictogetherdAllAs.com

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

11

Kids in the kitchen

The Real Moms Guide to...

a Safe, Fun, and Healthy

Halloween Party

Halloween is probably my favorite holiday. I just love seeing the kids in their costumes and planning a fun, safe party the kids will remember! What kid wouldn't want to invite their friends over for some pre- trickor-treating fun.

Here are some fun party ideas : • Make a haunted house by hanging blankets, using boxes for crawling through, and creating some spooky lighting • Bean bag toss in a pumpkins mouth (use plywood and paint to make the pumpkin) • Cupcake decoration station • Costume parade • Monster mash – freeze dance game • Pin the tail on the black cat • Spooky scavenger hunt • Create a pumpkin face (cut pumpkins out of construction paper, then cut silly features for the kids to choose)

While Halloween is all about candy to the kids, the adults would love to give them some healthier fare. Try serving some healthier snacks first so they don't fill up on junk!

Vampire Teeth

:

Cut an apple in half, cutting away from the core. Place halves flat side down.

Then, cutting longways, cut a triangle “mouth shape” out of the middle of each. Fill with peanut butter and use almond slivers as teeth.

Pizza Mummies

:

Cut English muffins in half and spread on pizza sauce. Using mozzarella string cheese, lay strips across to look like a mummy. Then add two slices of black olives for the eyes. Bake until cheese melts.

Witch's Brew Smoothies

:

Take 2 frozen, peeled bananas, cut in half and place in blender. Add 8 oz. of your favorite juice and 1-2 cups of frozen pineapple chunks and cherries.

Blend until smooth. Add a cinnamon stick to stir the brew.

To make a witch's brew punch, simply freeze the smoothie in a large bowl, then pour ginger ale in the bowl before the guests arrive. This makes a healthy alternative to ice cream punch.

I hope you enjoy your children this holiday season and make this the best Halloween yet. If you

like these ideas, you'll love my book, Processed Kids: The Real Mom's Guide to Raising Natural Kids in a Processed World. For more information, go to www.processedkids.com.

Happy Haunting, Lisa Greene 12

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

12

Achieving Your Child’s Goal,

One Step at a Time

by Shelly Richardson More than three million concussions are estimated to occur each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and of that number, emergency departments treat approximately 135,000 sports and recreation related traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, among children ages 5 to 18. With sports programs starting at an early age, it is important to give special consideration to a child’s brain, as it is continuing to undergo development and refinement until age 25.

At the Center for BrainHealth at the University of Texas at Dallas, researchers are studying the effects of concussions in children both immediately after the injury and in the weeks, months and years following. Currently, the Center for BrainHealth is part of a multi-site research project funded by the National Institutes of Health investigating recovery from long-term pediatric brain injury.

Recent research has revealed that once a person has had a concussion, he or she is three times more likely to have another one. Children and adolescents are at the most risk; the likelihood that a child experiences such an injury may be as high as one and five.

In all your life have you ever been sorry you did the right thing?

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www.KidsCareTherapy.com

If your child has experienced a concussion: • See a medical professional to determine the severity of the injury • Restrict physical activity – a child needs to be protected from another head injury for a period of time as it is dangerous to receive another concussion before the brain has recovered.

• Cognitive rest is a key factor in recovery and stressors such as schoolwork, text messaging, internet browsing, playing video games and watching television should be limited.

See a doctor immediately if your child experiences any of the following after having a concussion: • Headaches • Dizziness • Nausea or vomiting • Vision impairments such as double or blurry vision • Loss of balance • Memory problems • Numbness or tingling • Seizures “Head injuries take time to heal, and that is especially true in the case of children and young adults “ said Dr. Lori Cook of the Center for BrainHealth who directspediatric brain injury intiatives. “”Parents, coaches, teachers, and all other adult supervisors need to pay special care with a child who may have suffered a concussion or other head injury. Diminishing the chance of long-term harm is key.”

Have you heard about

Wester yet?

Check out our NTK blog for his story... www.northtexaskids.com/ntkblog/ Thanks to Cathy Burkey, the Dallas Zoo staff photographer, for this great picture.

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

13

A Halloween Extravaganza!

Benefiting the Programs of CITY House Saturday, October 30 from 10am to 4pm A FREE fun-filled day of entertainment, education and information for the entire family. Plus... Trick or Treating and A Costume Contest for All Ages!!

Plano Centre•2000 East Spring Creek Parkway, Plano 75074

About City House...

Our Mission The mission of CITY House is to protect children and strengthen families by helping children, youth and families resolve physical and emotional crises. We provide a complementary suite of intervention and prevention services at no cost to our clients.

Our Services include: • an emergency shelter for the teens (10 to 17 years) • an emergency shelter for the children (newborn to 9 years) • life skills education • crisis intervention Our goal is to enable families to function more effectively within the family unit and the community.

Our Vision Our vision of success is that every child, youth and young adult develops the skills and confidence he or she needs to succeed in life, especially while coping with difficult relationships and circumstances.

14

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Entertainment & Fun!

Costume Contests!!

Ronald McDonald Live at 11am!

For all ages beginning at 2pm.

Tuzer Ballet - Nutcracker Excerpt at 12pm

Please register at the

Meet Zoe the Clown Dance/Cheer Performances

North Texas Kids Booth!

Martial Arts Demonstrations Face Painting Bounce Houses Arts & Crafts for Kids brought to you by AroundTownKids.com

New This Year:

On site Day Care with Carpe Diem preschool Trick-or-Treat with over 100 fabulous vendors

Calling All Harry Potter Fans!

Grand Prize Drawing:

Ashrai is bringing an international flair with clothing, fine art and culture from India.

Storytelling Yoga Henna

4 Reserved Seating Tickets and a $25 gift certificate to opening night of Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows.

Mandala Coloring Contest (see pg.20 for details) Dance and more!

Courtesty of Studio Movie Grill and North Texas Kids

Awesome Door Prizes!

Visit us online for a Complete List of Vendors and Entertainment!

First 2,000 attendees will receive a reusable shopping bag full of coupons & goodies!

Shopping: Jewelry/Gifts/Bows Scentsy Candles Tutus/Clothing Homemade Gourmet

Plus: Over 100 Vendors with Everything You Need to Know to Raise Happy Healthy Kids!

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

Thank you to our sponsors!

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

15

rite Place

to

Studio

3 Dance

NOW ENROLLING Fall Classes Begin August 16

• Tap • Jazz • Ballet • Hip Hop & More Drill Team Prep, Lyrical and Modern • Programs for ages 2 ½ & up

www.studio3dance.com 972-964-3838

2220 Coit Road Suite 440 • Plano, TX 75075

$25 Off Fall Registration

$50 Off with this ad

www.MontessoriSchooling.com Environment That Teaches THE JOY OF LEARNING

Da

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avo sF ’ o

e nc

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Visit our beautiful new facility. In ground pits & trampolines, same great programs.

Programs Offered:

Parent & Tot • Kindergym • Girls & Boys Classes Team Program • Tumbling • Parties • Special Events • Camps

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6085 Sports Village Rd., Frisco, TX 75034

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• Degreed Montessori-Certified Teachers • After School Programs, Summer Camps • Mulit-Cultural Environment • Vegetarian Menu • Family Run Since 1994 • Computer Lab • Foreign Languages • Yoga & Music Classes Children’s House Montessori Infant - 3rd grade 601 S. Fountain Gate Allen, TX 75002 972.359.0909

Plano Children’s Montessori Infants - 1st grade 2707 W. 15th St. Plano, TX 75075 972.867.9467

Do the words “math homework” strike fear in your child…or you?

What if we told you that we can change that fear into better grades and higher self-confidence, and eliminate the frustration, tears, and fights over math homework?

Discover how a better understanding of math can change your child’s attitude. Before you know it, your child could be crazy about math.

Mathnasium of Plano 3115 W. Parker Rd, Ste 560 Plano, TX 75023 972-519-0340 plano@mathnasium.com

www.mathnasium.com/plano 2 n d - 1 2 + G RA D E S • S TA R R / TA K S , SAT, A C T, G E D P R E P • H O M E W O R K H E L P

Brain Fitness Program Do you want to improve your Brain, Memory, Attention, Flexibility, Speed, and Problem Solving Skills?

You will be guided through a complete brain fitness program that is fun but challenging. Training helps you think more clearly and quickly, remember names, where you put your keys, avoid distraction, increase concentration, multitask and make quick accurate decisions.

5207 Heritage Ave. Colleyville TX 76034 817-312-3211 www.thebraininstitute.net www.facebook.com/thebraininstitutetexas

Come In, Cool Off & Get Fit! It’s Always Cool at The Ice at Stonebriar Centre

Now Enrolling for Fall Classes Birthday Parties • Broomball Learn to Skate & Hockey Classes • Group Rates

Have a Back to School Party!

Call 972-731-9600

at Stonebriar Centre in Frisco

www.stonebriarice.com

$5.00 off 1 Learn to Skate or Intro to Hockey Semester. Exp. 11/1/10 16

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

greatc las se&sactivities!!

Is Your Back Ready to Go Back to School?

Gotta Dance!

Have you done your Therapy Homework?

Home of the Plano Metropolitan Ballet

Register Today

School Physicals ONLY $20!

• Sports and Family Chiropractic • Scoliosis Check-ups • School Physicals Dr.Chad E. Weinzetl, CCSP Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician 4140 Legacy Drive, Suite 324 Plano, TX 75024 469-241-9665

www.chirochangeslives.com

Receive $20 Off Registration

Key Note Music Studio • A Venue for Therapy Homework • Mom’s Day Out for children with special needs • Staff/Parent-Guided Sensory Circuit • Tutoring • Group Classes for Social Skills

• Piano Lessons for ages 5 and up • Private Instruction • Small Group classes

469-323-1200

www.keynotemusicstudio.com

972-769-0017 www.gottadanceplano.com

Location: West Plano, Parker & Independence

3131 Custer Rd. Suite #195 • Plano, Texas 75075

Grand Opening Special!

We specialize in Sport Taekwondo and Traditional Korean Martial Arts for all ages: 3 to adult.

We also offer: Women’s Fitness, Kickboxing, Toddler classes and the newest fitness craze paddleball classes.

Where ALL children can learn!

SERVICES: Tackling TAKS Standardized Test Preparation

2 for 1 Registration Special. Plano location only.

Private Tutoring • Learning Lab • Homework Help Parent and Teacher Consultation • Student Observations

Call for details. Exp.

Study and Organizational Skills

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www.gtsportusa.com

Academic Enrichment Center 5439 Glen Lakes Drive Dallas, Texas 75231 MBrewster@PumpkinLittles.com

214.346.0477

Visit our 2nd location inside Lifetime Fitness. 971 Hwy 121, Allen, TX

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 $15.00 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 12/31/10

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GRADES PRE-K THROUGH 6TH GRADE We support children of all abilities.

Visit our website for Tackling TAKS class times and more information regarding our academic programs.

AquA - Fit

Swim, Fitness & Wellness Center

Mosaic Art Studio

Enroll Today for Fall Programs Birthday Parties for Boys & Girls Walk-ins Welcome Ladies Night Out

www.itsasensoryworld.com

Pumpkin Littles Academic Enrichment Center Now Open!

Grand Opening Special!

972.424.5566

13617 Neutron Rd., Farmers Branch, TX 75244

www.PumpkinLittles.com

GT Sport TaeKwondo

4101 E Park Blvd, Ste 100 Plano, TX 75074

972-239-8100

PreBallet/Tap, Ballet, Tap, Jazz

Plano’s Best Warm Salt Water Aquatic Center

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Learn to Swim $99 Fall Special*

Enroll Now for Fall Programs

Fun 2 B Fit for 9-15 year olds: Fitness, Nutrition & Swimming Skills Athlete Conditioning Program - Avoid Injury, Get Fit for Any Sport!

Swim Select for Advanced Swimmers Also offering Adult Swim, Yoga, Pilates & Tai Chi classes *Some restrictions apply, call for details. NTKF10

1400 Summit Ave D2 • Plano, TX • info@aquafitplano.com

972-578-7946

www.aquafitplano.com

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

17

c r ! e ! a t e n ! ! r a le Mill-Again Stables Plano, TX

Every Little Girl Loves a Horse!

Riding Lessons Horse & Tack Supplied

Candee Carlson 469-853-5718 by appointment only

18

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

Scarecrow Craft: Great for Family Decorating Fun or A Party Activity If you and your kids decide to do this together, skip the part about dividing into teams and have fun making the scarecrow!

I love crafts like this that use recycled materials and I am always looking for creative ways to use left over newspaper! I also love that this activity combines art and exercise into so much fun!

Supplies: • Markers • Blunt-Tip Scissors • Construction Paper • Recycled newspaper • Masking tape • Brown paper grocery bag • Lunch Bags

Instructions: 1.

Before the party: Divide the list of party guests into teams. Each team

will work together to turn paper bags into a scarecrow. Each scarecrow uses 10 paper bags: one large grocery bag for the body, one medium-sized bag for the head, and two small lunch bags for each arm and leg.

2.

At the party: Guests turn bags inside out to hide print. Each team uses markers to draw a face on the head. Draw hair or cut strips of construction paper with Scissors and attached with masking tape. Children younger than age 3 can safely tear strips of paper for hair.

3.

Draw patterned shirts, pants, fingers, boots or toes, and other details on the remaining bags. Stuff bags with lightly wadded newspaper. Close each bag with masking tape.

4.

Buddy Bags and Jack Barker Provide Hope & Support to Kids With Cancer Your child has cancer…. No parent ever wants to hear these words yet the reality is that 46 children are diagnosed with cancer every day, and 1 in 330 children will develop cancer by the age of 20. Common cancer symptoms in children often start out very similar to symptoms of common illnesses but don’t respond to treatment as symptoms from a common illness would. These children usually go through weeks or months of doctor visits and tests searching for the answer only to end up in the emergency room with the dreaded diagnosis of childhood cancer.

At this point the child is immediately admitted to the hospital for treatment leaving the parents in a state of shock. Kids and families dealing with cancer need hope and support, and many organizations have formed as a result of this. Wipe Out Kids Cancer (WOKC) is a Dallas-based non-profit founded in 1980 dedicated to funding childhood cancer research and supporting kids with cancer and their families. WOKC has donated more than $3.5 million to fund childhood cancer research and also sponsors programs such as the Ambassador and Buddy Bags Programs to provide hope and support to these kids and their families.

WOKC launched the “Buddy Bags” program in 2008 to provide a bag full of personal items and hospital stay necessities to each child admitted to Children’s Medical Center of Dallas for cancer treatment. WOKC wanted to provide something that would help ease the transition from home to hospital. The idea for the Buddy Bags started with a mom who had been in that situation and knew what would help a family in crisis. Kyle Freeland was a 2007 WOKC Ambassador, and his mom Lori, helped start the program and is still involved today. All items included in the Buddy Bags were chosen by moms of kids with cancer who selected items that would have helped them … or in one case … a Snuggie chosen by Jack Barker.

Jack Barker, a 13-year old middle school student from Coppell, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia T-Cell on September 10, 2009. As Jack was going through chemotherapy treatments at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas, he found a snuggie was the only thing that would keep him warm and leave his hands free to play video games to distract him from the painful & chilling sessions. He decided the famed blanket-with-arms would also be perfect for other kids fighting cancer. Jack, a 2010 WOKC Ambassador, started a mission in the middle of his own cancer treatment – to spread comfort and warmth to other kids in the same situation. Jack began his mission to provide a snuggie for every cancer patient at Children's Medical Center of Dallas and beyond. Jack's family and friends set up a foundation called "Jack's Closet" to keep the fundraising effort rolling and have contributed over 500 snuggies to pediatric cancer patients from Dallas to California.

To play the game: Gather each team's scarecrow parts in one area. Place a chair and roll of masking tape for each team a short distance away from the team's pile of scarecrow parts. This area is the relay race space.

The WOKC Buddy Bags now also now contain a Snuggie, thanks to Jack Barker for the idea and contribution. If only we could all be more like Jack….

5.

Contribute items or funding to the WOKC Buddy Bags. Current “Wish List” items include: books of stamps, hair brushes, flashlights (with batteries) digital cameras, journals and travel mugs. Donors can also contribute money to sponsor the Buddy Bags program. Visit www.wokc.org for details or email pr@wokc.org.

Teams members participate in a relay race. Taking turns, each runner scurries to get a scarecrow part and bring it to the chair. Other team members work together to add each part to the scarecrow. Who will be first to finish building the scarecrow?

Thanks to Crayola.com for creating such a fun craft! My kids and I had a blast creating our scarecrow.

How you can help:

Contribute Snuggies or funding to Jack’s Closet Foundation. Email thejackfoundation@yahoo.com for details.

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

19

North Texas Kids and Ashraia

Emma’s Kid Friendly Restaurant Review

present

A Mandala Coloring Contest in conjunction with the 3rd Annual NTK Family Expo on Saturday, October 30 at the Plano Centre

For this year's expo, we wanted to bring you a unique coloring contest that will educate kids about different cultural traditions and teach them (and maybe you) a simple technique for relaxation and stress relief. Coloring mandalas is a time-honored tradition in ancient cultures and modern workshops. See the end of this article for some online resources for the history of Mandalas and great, downloadable designs.

We also wanted to bring an international flair to our 3rd Annual Family Expo. Ashraia is a locally owned organization that promotes the beautiful world of ART for a cause depicting an array of colors representing each season through paintings, artistic clothing, wall hangings, beaded accessories, hand painted stoles, embroidered shawls etc. They will be bringing their beautiful wearable and decorative art to the expo, along with story times, dancers and more. You won't want to miss their special appearance at this year's event. For more information, visit them online at www.ashraia.com.

Coloring a mandala can be a very empowering or stress-relieving experience for a child. Mandalas are calming, inspiring and symmetrical. Learning about mandalas will give your kids a sense of the links between cultures. Show your children examples of mandalas from around the world, using the links below. Mandalas are also great ways of teaching math concepts of angles, shapes, geometry and more.

History and general information: • Great gallery of images - www.bit.ly/brMfHb

• General information & history - www.ehow.com/about_5456207_history-mandala.html • Using mandalas with kids - www.papermandalas.com/

• A great story of a 5th grade class and their mandalas www.healing.about.com/od/ mandalachildren/Mandalas_and_Children.htm

Free online mandalas to print and color: Some nice designs - www.junemoon.com/free.html Oodles of fun patterns - www.bit.ly/cgzbbz

For the art contest, your child can choose a design on the computer, print

it out and color it, paint it, use a collage or any other format that they come up with.

There is something very calming about designing and coloring the symmetrical patterns. Keeping our hands busy allows our hearts and minds to rest and to focus on the moment. Drawing or coloring with your children is relaxing for both of you.

To submit artwork, you can email a digital copy to info@northtexaskids.com,

mail a copy to us at Scissortail Publishing, 700 E. Park Blvd., Ste. 110, Plano, TX 75074 or bring it with you to the expo. We will even have mandalas on hand to decorate while you are at the expo. Please note that artwork will not be returned unless you provide a stamped, addressed envelope or come to pick it up at our

office in Plano following the event. Please make sure to include your child's name, age and your name and contact information. All artwork will be on display at the North Texas Kids Family Expo and may appear on our Facebook Fan Page or the www.northtexaskids.com website.

Grand prize: The winning mandala will appear on a future cover of North Texas Kids magazine. The artist will receive $100 and a gift basket valued at $100.00.

Questions: Call our office at 972-516-9070 or email info@northtexaskids.com.

Mama’s Pizza

2130 W . Parker Rd. Plano, TX 75075 • 972-596-3303 www.mamaspizzaplano.com

by Emma Bonin Friday night we went to Mama’s pizza. We actually go there a lot because it’s always good and near our house. We always see someone we know there.

Mama’s is a very family friendly pizza place. They have a great buffet with cheese stix and all kinds of pizza: cheese, sausage, veggie, pepperoni, and more. The salad bar has a wide variety of fresh veggies, boiled egg, real bacon bits and several salad dressings. For dessert, they have sweet cinnamon rolls! And it is all you can eat! If you don’t want the buffet, you can order individual pizzas.

The atmosphere is casual and sporty.

There are at least two large screen TV’s, sports jerseys, banners, photos, and even a football field wall treatment. There are also games, like Pac Man, for kids of all

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

online at www.mamaspizzaplano.com.

Emma Bonin is a sixth-grader at Haggard Middle School. She lives in Plano with her mom, dad, and brother, Jack. She is an avid soccer player and enjoys swimming, computer games, baking, getting together with friends, and taking care of her two mini-schnauzers, Pepper and Prince.

Alexandria’s Book Review The Library Mouse

A Review by Alexandria Battle

By Danial Kirk 32 pages • Age 6-8 Abrams, Harry N., Inc. (September 2007) Daniel Kirk, the author of this month’s book review, grew up loving to draw and paint and play with clay. Even at an early age he enjoyed having a pencil and paper in his hand to do something with, and (a lot like me) sometimes didn’t feel complete without them. Fantasy was one of his favorite genres, and today it really stands out in this book.

The book was heartily recommended to me by my mother, who read it to her children at school, and I’m happy to pass that positive review along here.

The Library Mouse centers on Sam, a mouse who lives in a library, of all places. But Sam is no ordinary, cheeseloving rodent. He loves to read more than anything, and every day after the lights go out and the people go home, the library is Sam’s domain. He has read every single section of the place, from mystery to fantasy and even cookbooks!

After reading so many books and traveling to so many places in his mind, Sam’s next course was logical: write a book of his own! But how would he do it?

Books solved the problem. Thanks

20

ages to play.

Mama’s Pizza has been serving the Plano community for over 30 years. In fact, they sponsored my dad’s softball team many years ago. It’s a great neighborhood place and I think everyone should try it.

Mama's Pizza is located at the Southwest corner of Custer Rd. and Parker Rd. in Plano. You can visit them

to all of the books he had read, Sam knew exactly how to start such a story.

With the help of some spare paper and an abandoned pencil, Sam was good to go—and his first book was a big hit.

Sometimes one is not enough, and it wasn’t for Sam, either—he wrote another book, and then another, pleased with the positive reception each new story got each day from the people who came to the library. But then he came across a new dilemma: the library’s daytime occupants wanted to meet him in person!

What will Sam do? I’ll leave the telling up to Daniel Kirk, since he has written one of the cutest, most engaging children’s books I’ve read yet. This is my first time reading a book by this author, but I will certainly be reading many more!

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!

Watch us LIVE online! www.youtube.com/northtexaskids

Would you like a fresh perspective on your child’s Academic progress?

Scraptions by Christy

• assessments • advocacy • parent training and workshops • behavior consults • social thinking classes

Where the Only Limitation is the Imagination!

Visit our website for more information www.richeducationalconsulting.com or call 972-816-3100

“Scrapbooking your way to creative memories.”

10% off Custom Scrapbook Design Call Now for Details!

~

Schedule your scrapbook event today!

Perfect for bridal/baby showers, birthdays, and any special event.

972-971-9408 www.scraptionsbychristy.com

Remember to Follow us on

Facebook & Twitter!! www.twitter.com/northtxkids On Facebook, search for North Texas Kids magazine.

balloo ning silly so ngs & dance whims s ical m agic •

• •

Happy Halloween!!

Advertise Your Business Here for $99 a month.* Call us at 972-516-9070 to reserve your space today! *Price valid for full year contract only. Ad design fee $25.00. www.northtexaskids.com

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

21

Check out these awesome family-focused programs from the Medical Center of Plano.

Teddy Bear Camp

October 9 and December 11 from 10 to 11 am A class designed for expectant siblings who are 2 and 3 years old. Siblings are asked to bring their teddy bear with them as they listen to a story, learn about what new babies are able to do, learn how to hold them (with parent’s assistance) and make a door hanger for their room and the new baby’s room. Parents are invited to come along as we journey through the labor and delivery area and sit by the tents as we focus on the new baby.

Grand Parenting 101: Caring for Kids Today October 28 at 7 pm

At The Medical Center of Plano, we realize that today’s children aren’t exposed to the same things you or your children were in years past. That’s why we offer this free class to help bring grandparents up-to-date on changes in baby care and baby products. Learn the latest safety techniques and ways to develop a special relationship with your grandchildren. Not only will you learn a few new things, you won’t be surprised to know some things never change - like how much you love your grandchildren.

Safe Sitter Baby-Sitting Class

November 6 from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm When you accept a babysitting job, you accept the responsibility for a child’s life. Prepare yourself to be a more responsible babysitter. Safe Sitter teaches safe child-care techniques, behavior management skills and appropriate responses to medical emergencies. For boys and girls ages 11 to 13. The cost is $55 and includes instruction in infant and child CPR. The information learned is priceless!

New Baby Day Camp

November 13 from 9 to Noon

KIDZ BOP, the #1 kids’ music brand in the United States, will be howling on the streets with the release of

KIDZ Bop Halloween Party!

The best-selling series, sung by kids for kids, is back and ready to scare up some fun with 15 re-mastered “spooktacular” Halloween hits, plus some seriously spooky sounds. Kids will eat

This fun, interactive “day at camp” helps expectant siblings age 4+ prepare for the arrival of a new baby.

The hospital is transformed into a camping and hiking area for kids to explore, preparing them for their new role as a big brother or big sister along the way. Presented in conjunction with Spirit of Women.

up this collection of terrifying

Boot Camp for New Dads

KIDZ Bop Halloween Party

tracks faster than candy!

November 18 at 7 pm

is the perfect Halloween

In this free seminar designed for first-time fathers, The Medical Center of Plano staff physicians share their knowledge and expertise to illustrate the magic and challenges of fatherhood. Topics include our own fathers as role models; care of new moms and babies; returning to intimacy; forming a family; “Dad the Protector” and dad and baby on the go.

soundtrack for costume

All seminars at The Medical Center of Plano are held in the 2nd Floor Classrooms unless otherwise noted. Visit www.themedicalcenterofplano for more information or call 972.519.1209 to make your reservation today!

parties, kids’ trick-or-treat bags, or just greeting some miniature monsters at your door. The album features 10 re-recorded tracks including two new Halloween-themed track additions, “Disturbia” and “I want Candy.”

KIDZ BOP Halloween Party is available at the KIDZ BOP shop and wherever CDs are sold.

22

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

NTK Calendar of Events

Looking for Something to Do in Your Own Backyard or Around the Metroplex? You Will Find it Here!

Find these events and more online at www.northtexaskids.com.

October 1 Friday Petting Zoo/Pumpkin Patch: The Gentle Zoo offers family fun for all ages including a petting zoo, party room, picnic area, bounce house, train ride, giant maze and more. Join us for our pumpkin patch in October. Open Tues-Sat 9:30-2. www.gentlezoo.com - Forney - Wed Sep 1 to Sun Oct 31 Dallas Children’s Theater presents Miss Nelson is Missing!: Enjoyed by ages 5 and above.

This classroom comedy is for unruly children everywhere who take advantage of their teacher’s good will and must face the most terrifying of substitutes - Miss Viola Swamp!

214-740-0051 www.dct.org - Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938 Skillman Street, Dallas Fri Sep 17 to Sun Oct 24 Autumn at the Arboretum: The Great Pumpkin Festival: Featuring the Storybook Pumpkin Village, Oktoberfest Garten and Beautiful Floral Color. www.dallasarboretum.org - Dallas Arboretum - Sat Sep 18 to Sun Nov 14 NorthPark Celebrates the Arts: Live Entertainment: As part of NorthPark’s celebration of the arts in North Texas, live music, storytelling, art demonstrations and more will take place on October 1-2. All performances are free and open to the public. www.northparkcenter.com Dallas - Fri Oct 1 to Sat Oct 2 First Friday Women’s Event: 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 - Southlake - Fri Oct 1 11am to 12pm

2 Saturday A*B*C America Before Columbus: Just in time for Columbus Day - A commedia-like troupe humorously and skillfully enacts various scenes in A*B*C* America Before Columbus. The play begins with two children stepping across the frozen Bering Strait 20,000 years ago. www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org Ticket prices: $6 - $11 - Frisco Discovery Center Theatre. 8004 N. Dallas Tollway, Suite 200 Frisco, 75034 - Sat Oct 2 to Sat Oct 16 Cottonwood Art Festival: Cottonwood Art Festival is a juried show. Each of the artists is there in person to discuss their work, or to talk for a while on a fall afternoon. For pint-size Picassos, ArtStop is the festival’s hands-on, interactive children’s area with over 100 volunteers, life size paint brushes and activities no child can resist. www.cottonwoodartfestival.com - 1321 W. Beltline Road, one block east of Coit Road, Richardson - Sat Oct 2 to Sun Oct 3 Dallas Capoeira 5th Batizado: Come watch renowned masters and instructors play the beautiful and deadly game of capoeira. Capoeira has evolved over centuries into an exciting combination of martial arts, dance, acrobatics, and live music. This is a fantastic display of athleticism for all ages to enjoy. www.capdallas.com - Dallas - Sat Oct 2

Dinosaurs Live!: Encounter the ever-popular 46-foot T-Rex and eight new life-size animatronic dinosaurs along nature trails. The exhibit always gives families and friends a fun, educational activity to enjoy together and a unique family outing during the holidays! The Dinosaurs Live! trail is jogging-stroller friendly. heardmuseum.org - Heard Natural Science Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney - Sat Oct 2 to Mon Jan 31, 2011 Plano International Festival: From Asia to the Americas, experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the world at this cultural celebration.

Enjoy ethnic cuisine while watching multicultural music and dance performances. Kids can make free art projects and get their own passports stamped. Admission and parking are free. Come tour the world in downtown Plano! www.planointernationalfestival.org - Plano Sat Oct 2 Punt, Pass & Kick contest: Local boys and girls ages 8 to 15 are invited by the Frisco Parks & Recreation Department to compete in the NFL’s Punt, Pass and Kick contest. Participants will complete each segment of the contest: punting, passing and kicking for a total cumulative score based on distance and accuracy. Contact John Evans at JEvans@FriscoTexas.gov or call 972292-6508. - Bacchus Community Park, Frisco - Sat Oct 2 9am to 12pm AdventureAsia: Family Days At The Crow: Celebrate the opening day of The Mystical Arts of Tibet with fun family activities inspired by the traditions of Tibet. Create your own sand paintings, prayer flags, and Tibetan friendship scarves. Following the opening ceremony, the monks will perform a special blessing for children. www.crowcollection.org - Crow Collection of Asian Art, Dallas - Sat Oct 2 10am to 2pm Frisco Discovery Center Grand Opening: On Saturday from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., the community open house is open to all to tour the Frisco Discovery Center, participate in the grand opening ceremony, meet local artists and enjoy a FREE concert by Eddie Coker at 1p.m.

Discounted admission this day only of $5.00 a ticket. www.mindstretchingfun.org - 8004 N. Dallas Parkway Frisco 75034 - Sat Oct 2 10am to 6pm Centennial Medical hosts First Saturday Q&A: 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. www.centennialmedicalcenter.com - Stonebriar, Frisco - Sat Oct 2 12pm to 2pm Family and Fur-iends Day: Operation Kindness and Duke’s Roadhouse invite you and your pooches to join us the first Saturday of each month for our free Family and Fur-iends party! From 5-8pm bring your four-legged best friend family members where kiddos eat for free and you will receive a 20% off your entire tab! www.operationkindness.org - Duke’s Original Roadhouse, Addison - Sat Oct 2 5pm to Sat Oct 2 8pm

3 Sunday Family Past Times at Dallas Heritage Village: The 1st Sunday of the month is free admission

day at the Village. Pack a lunch and bring the whole family for historic fun. Participate in themed activities for everyone to enjoy. www.dallasheritagevillage.org - Dallas Heritage Village, Dallas - Sun Oct 3

4 Monday Greater Lewisville Early Childhood PTA General Meeting: GLECPTA is a support organization for parents of infants, toddlers and preschool-age children that offers monthly meetings (with great speakers and childcare!), playgroups, children outings, holiday parties and adult activities. www.glecpta.org - Flower Mound - Mon Oct 4

5 Tuesday Admissions Coffee - Akiba Academy of Dallas: 8:30 a.m. meet Administration, optional tours at 9:15 am. Akiba Academy of Dallas. 214295-3419 www.akibaacademy.org - 12324 Merit Drive, Dallas 75251 - Tue Oct 5 8:30am to 9:30am La Leche League of Lewisville: Whether you breastfeed for a day or a year, or plan to breastfeed, come join us. www.lllusa.org/web/ LewisvilleTX.html; call Julie 214-929-8908, Bridget 972-317-1648, Laura 972-436-8383, or Fanny 972-535-5159 for more info. - First Presbyterian Church in Lewisville [1002 Fox St] - Tue Oct 5 7pm to 8pm

7 Thursday JumpstART - Stories & ART: 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving. FREE family story time with a hands-on art activity to follow.

Explore new themes, books and fun projects each month. JumpstART family story time takes place at 10 a.m. on the first Thursday of each month. Open to children of all ages. www.irvingartscenter.com - Irving - Thu Oct 7 10am to 11am

8 Friday After Dark in the Park: Bring the family to the annual After Dark in the Park event at River Legacy Park. Fun, food and games for the entire family. www.arlingtontx.gov - River Legacy Park - Fri Oct 8 to Sun Oct 10 Dallas Children’s Theater Presents The Curse of Castle Mongrew: Enjoyed by ages 12 and above. They’re kooky and they’re spooky!

They’re wacky and they’re weird! www.dct.org - Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938 Skillman Street, Dallas - Fri Oct 8 to Sun Oct 31 Family Camping Weekend at El Tesoro: Canoeing, archery, hiking, games, creek-walking, crafts and free time to explore are at your fingertips. $15 to $55 per person. www.CampElTesoro.org Granbury - Fri Oct 8 to Sun Oct 10 Lone Star Storytelling Festival: The City of Frisco’s 7th Annual Lone Star Storytelling Festival elevates the art of the story with performances from some of the nation’s best-loved professional storytellers. www.LoneStarStories.org - 6101 Frisco Square Blvd. - Fri Oct 8 to Sat Oct 9 NTASHA UPHA Fall Classic Horse Show: Free horse show! Bring the kids and see beautiful American Saddlebred and Tennessee Walking Horse compete in high style. The show starts at 9 a.m and 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and runs from 9-5 on Sunday.

www.ntasha.org - Las Colinas - Fri Oct 8 to Sun Oct 10 The Prince and the Pauper: Based on the story

by America’s beloved Mark Twain, the tale relates what would happen if two boys, one a prince and one a pauper, decided to exchange their clothes. Adults - $10, Students and Seniors - $8, Kids under 10 - $7 www.getintotheact.org Lewisville - Fri Oct 8 Car Seat Fitting Station: 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. - Frisco - Fri Oct 8 12:30pm to 3:30pm

9 Saturday Wendell Minor: In the American Tradition: Wendell Minor’s children’s book illustrations explore our natural environment, from wild Alaskan landscapes to the Mojave Desert and even the moon. www.irvingartscenter.com Irving - Sat Oct 9 to Sun Jan 2, 2011 24th Annual Lake Joe Pool 10K,5K, 1M Fun Run & Pumpkinfest: 972-264-2244. Lynn Creek Park, Lake Joe Pool, Grand Prairie www.pumpkinrun.us/ Sat Oct 9 8:30am to 9:30am Twice as Nice Sale by The North Dallas Mothers of Twins Club: Our multiples make this sale twice as nice as we have double the selection! $1.00 admission, payable at the door www.ndmotc.org - Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho Rd., Richardson - Sat Oct 9 8:30am to 12:30pm Red Balloon Run and Relay: 5K/1K/ 20K relay. Children’s Medical Center Legacy - 214526-9712 - www.redballoonevent.org - 7800 Preston Rd, Plano - Sat Oct 9 9:30am to 10:30am Mary Immaculate Annual Fall Festival: Your entire family will enjoy live bands, cakewalk, game booths, kids activities, carnival rides, food and more. Entry is FREE. (972) 243-7104. www.maryimmaculatechurch.org.

Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, Dallas - Sat Oct 9 11am to Sat Oct 9 10pm Mother Son Dance: Dance Times: 5:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. (ages 4-7), 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (ages 8-12) Tickets: $12 per person (resident), $15 (non-resident). Moms, take the young men in your life out for an evening of fun for an “All Star Evening” at the 9th Annual Mother Son Dance.

Mothers and their sons ages 4 to 12 are welcome.

FriscoFun.org - Wakeland High School, Frisco Sat Oct 9 5:30pm to Sat Oct 9 9pm

10 Sunday Fiesta Latinoamericana!: a family event that captures the rhythms and flavors of a traditional plaza, with 2 stages of music & dance, Children’s Workshops, Parade of Nations, Strolling musicians, Aztec dancers, Afro Latino Drum circle. www.dfwinternational.org - Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas - Sun Oct 10 11am to Sun Oct 10 7pm

11 Monday Second Monday Family Fun Nights at Josey Ranch Lake: Come to the library for a night of games and crafts. Meet up with other families and enjoy the free fun! For all ages.

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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www.cityofcarrollton.com - Carrollton Public Library, 1700 Keller Springs Road, Carrollton 75006 - Mon Oct 11 7pm to 8:30pm

12 Tuesday Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano: 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! www.newcomerfriends.org - Plano - Tue Oct 12 9:30am to 11:30am

14 Thursday Simulations of Learning Differences: Learn first-hand what it is like to be a student with learning differences. Shelton School, largest private school for students with learning differences, will host a Simulation of Learning Differences at 7:00 p.m. on October 14th, 15720 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas 75248. There is no charge, please rsvp for seating to 972-774-1772, ext.

2223 or email bshortall@shelton.org www.shelton.org - 15720 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas 75248 - Thu Oct 14 7pm to 8pm Music Together Dallas Parent Ed Evening: RSVP gila@musictogetherdallas.com. Topic: Are all babies born musical? Snacks will be served. $15 per couple or $10 per person. - 17404 Hillcrest Rd Dallas 75252 - Thu Oct 14 7:30pm to 8:30pm

15 Friday Boy Scouts of America- Adventure Base 100: Ropes Course. Go! Dome. Traveling Museum.

The Boy Scouts of America is touring the country to give people an exciting, hands-on view of the organization’s 100 year history as well as the positive difference Scouting has made in the lives of millions of youth. www.adventurebase100.org.

Be sure to stop by the Texas State Fair, from 10 a.m.to 9 p.m. - Dallas - Fri Oct 15 to Sun Oct 17 Story Time Theatre: Our storyteller will take you on a fun-filled journey of imagination as she brings to life favorite children’s stories.

This event is FREE. www.womproductions. com - Frisco Discovery Center Theatre - Fri Oct 15 10am to 11am

16 Saturday Cottonwood Creek Fall Craft Fair and Gift Market: Start your holiday shopping early.

More than 70 vendors will be on hand selling a variety of items including jewelry, candles, fall décor, children’s clothing and accessories and more. Craft fair tickets are available at the door for $2 per adult and are available at the door.

- Cottonwood Creek Elementary, 615 Minyard Dr., Coppell - Sat Oct 16 Kayak Power River Trip: Time: 9 a.m. Phone: 972.669.1663. Each month Kayak Power provides equipment and instruction followed by a six-mile trip down the Elm Fork to a shuttle vehicle. Paddlers of all skill levels are welcome. Contact Kayak Power at 214-669-1663 for schedule and fee information. www.ias.unt.edu info@kayakpower.com - Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, Lewisville - Sat Oct 16 Butterfly Flutterby: Calling all kids - come to Grapevine to celebrate the migration of the Monarch Butterfly from Canada to Mexico. Grapevine is on their path! This fun-for-the-wholefamily event includes releases of butterflies and a Gossamer Parade. www.grapevinetexasusa.com Grapevine - Sat Oct 16 10am to 2pm FREE Family Fun Day: With Zoe the Clown, bounce house, obstacle course, Yoga class at 10:15am, kids games, Gluten Free food and tons of great raffle prizes. 972-930-0260. info@mychildwellness.com - Whole Child Wellness, 14330 Midway Rd Ste 116, Dallas 75244 - Sat Oct 16 10am to 1pm

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Garland’s Gone Camping: Grab your tent and sleeping bags for a night under the stars with family & friends. For more information, please contact Holford Recreation Center at (972) 205-2772, or Audubon Recreation Center at (972) 205-3991. - Audubon Park, 342 West Oates Road, Garland 75043 - Sat Oct 16 3pm to Sun Oct 17 8am

17 Sunday Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile: The Primm family is busily moving into their new house on East 88th Street, when suddenly they hear SWISH, SWASH, SPLASH, SWOOSH. Tickets: $11-$21; Eisemann Center Ticket Office 972-744-4650 www.eisemanncenter.com - Richardson - Sun Oct 17 2:30pm to 3:30pm

19 Tuesday La Leche League of Lewisville: Whether you breastfeed for a day or a year, or plan to breastfeed, come join us. www.lllusa.org/web/ LewisvilleTX.html; call Julie 214-929-8908, Bridget 972-317-1648, Laura 972-436-8383, or Fanny 972-535-5159 for more info. - First Presbyterian Church in Lewisville [1002 Fox St] - Tue Oct 19 10am to 11am

21 Thursday Dinosaurs Unearthed: Life-size Dinosaurs.

Larger than life experience! The Museum of Nature & Science will host animatronic dinosaurs that YOU move and control! See why this show will challenge what you think you know about dinosaurs. www.natureandscience.org Dallas Museum of Nature & Science - Thu Oct 21 to Sun May 1, 2011

22 Friday 1 Kid 2 Another Children’s Consignment Sale: www.1kid2another.org - Holy Trinity Catholic School, 3815 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas 75219 - Fri Oct 22 to Sun Oct 24 Fall Festival at Frisco Fire Safety Town: Visit us for a SPOOKTACULAR time! The FFST Fall Festival is designed for young kiddos (tots through elementary school age), but parents and grandparents who are young at heart will have fun too! Expect to see the resident fire clowns making the rounds as you trick-or-treat!

- Frisco Fire Safety Town, 8601 Gary Burns Dr. Fri Oct 22 6pm to Fri Oct 22 9pm

23 Saturday Fall Fest 5K Fun Run/Walk: Texas Health Presbyterian Allen Presents Fall Fest 5K Fun Run/Walk. Benefitting the Programs of Allen Community Outreach. www.acocares.org - The Village at Fairview & The Village at Allen - Sat Oct 23 7am to 9am Cowboys & Kids 5K: 5K/1M, 972-235-2513, www.cowboysandkidsrun.com - Resistol Arena, Mesquite - Sat Oct 23 8:30am to 9:30am Fall Festival 2010: Hamilton Park United Methodist Church Children’s Ministry Fall Festival 2010. Join us for a time of food, fun and fellowship. 972-235-4633 - 11881 Schroeder Rd, Dallas - Sat Oct 23 10am to 2pm Victorian Halloween Festival and Craft Fair: Featuring Live Music - Story Telling Pumpkin Patch - crafts Carnival games - Wagon Rides Trick or Treating and more. (972) 881-0140 www.heritagefarmstead. org Admission - $ 8.00 Adults, $ 5.00 Children & Seniors - 1900 West 15th Street, Plano - Sat Oct 23 12pm to Sat Oct 23 8pm Family Fall Festival: $10 a family. Live music, pony rides, petting zoo, train rides & more! Outdoor movie at 7pm. 972-547-2690 tyanes@mckinneytexas.org - 1401 Wilson Creek Parkway Wilson Creek Softball Complex - Sat Oct 23 4pm to Sat Oct 23 9pm

North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

27 Wednesday Taste of Arlington 2010: Welcome to Trick or Taste! Taste of Arlington is much more than a great evening -- you’re helping to raise money for thousands of kids in our community. Tickets: At the door: $45 www.tasteofarlington.info Arlington Convention Center - Wed Oct 27 5:30pm to Wed Oct 27 8pm

29 Friday Dia de los Muertos Candy Skull Workshop: Museum of Nature and Science. Stop by and decorate your own candy sugar skull and prepare a festive skeleton to add to your Halloween decorations. This event is free to members and included with the cost of general admission to non-members. www.natureandscience.org 3535 Grand Avenue and 1318 S. 2nd Avenue in Fair Park - Fri Oct 29 3pm to 4pm Scare on the Square: This annual event has grown to hundreds of trick-or-treaters enjoying hayrides, treats and a safe, secure family fun Halloween event. Historic Downtown is closed off for trick-or-treaters to cross the street safely, going shop to shop for goodies. www.downtownmckinney.com - Historic Downtown McKinney - Fri Oct 29 4pm to 6pm

30 Saturday Halloween Scream Train: Grapevine Vintage Railroad - It’s a spooktacular weekend aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Wear your Halloween costumes for the on board costume contest. Halloween candy will be provided on board. www.grapevinetexasusa.com - Grapevine - Sat Oct 30 to Sun Oct 31 Trek or Treat 5K Run & Walk at Watters Creek: The entire day will be a Halloween celebration full of tasty treats and activities for all ages.

So, whether you’re Buzz Lightyear, Lady Gaga or Spiderman - we have a spot for you! info@ dfwruns.com - Allen - Sat Oct 30 Street & Treat--trick or treat Main Street businesses: 972-237-8100 www.GrandFunGp.com - 120 W Main Street, Grand Prairie - Sat Oct 30 6pm to Sat Oct 30 8pm

31 Sunday Kids Night Out: Plano Market Square Mall will provide children with a safe alternative to outdoor Trick-Or-Treating. The event is designed for children ages 12 and under. For security purposes, we are asking all adults attending with their kids not to where any scary costumes or gore mask of any sort. The mall is located at 1717 Spring Creek Parkway, Plano and the event is set to start at 6:00 PM and end at 8:00 PM. Email Jerricky@plano.gov. - Plano - Sun Oct 31

Ongoing Fun Classes and Activities Arlington Friday Night Open Skate-on going event, Every Friday. Come have fun hangin with your friends on Friday Nights. Games, music, friends, concessions and much more! Elzie Odom Recreation Center, 1601 NE Green Oaks Blvd. 76006.

7 pm - 10 pm $10 entree fee. For ages 13 and under, parents must sign child in at the door and verify their age. For more information call 817-459-6434. www.naturallyfun.org 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 Lakeshore has FREE crafts for kids on Saturdays. Located just north of the Galleria on Dallas Pkwy (13846 Dallas Pkwy ) 972-934-8866 for more information.

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

Dallas/Casa Linda Glaze Days! Saturday and Sundays. Pottery Painting for all ages. Drop in Saturdays 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and Sundays 1:00 pm to 4 pm. Cost is price of items chosen plus tax! www.artisticgatherings.com DFW Playin’ Around Town hosts events throughout the Dallas metroplex during the mid-day hours Monday through Friday. The events take place at venues such as: water parks, in-door bounce houses, arcades, gymnastic centers, music and craft centers, etc. All events are open for parents and their immediate family to attend, at NO CHARGE. www.playinaroundtown.com/ Flower Mound Various story times for all ages. Located at 3030 Broadmoor Ln, Flower Mound 75022. Visit the Town of Flower Mound Web Site for more information. Registration not required.

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 A fitness option at Stonebriar Centre is StrollerFit, a workout program that turns a stroller into a portable fitness machine. Classes meet six days a week, Monday through Saturday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. in Center Court on the lower level. Cost is $55 a month with a one-time enrollment fee of $50. For more information about StrollerFit, e-mail Victoria Patel at victoria.patel@strollerfit.com or call 214.289.3890. www.strollerfit.com/frisco

Frisco Frisco Public Library Youth Services Programming. For more information on all programs call 972-292-KNOW or visit www.friscolibrary.com Fridays at 1pm - Preschool storytime is hosted

by Adventure Kids Playcare. Call 972.668.5990 to reserve your child’s spot or call with questions. Frisco location: 2831 Eldorado Parkway, Suite 110 (corner of FM 423 and Eldorado Parkway) www.adventurekidsplaycare.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 Little Elm Various story times for all ages - 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.

Mansfield Mansfield Public Library has weekly storytimes for babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers. www. mansfield-tx.gov/departments/library McKinney Second Saturdays Downtown McKinney. ‘Second Saturdays’ is a celebration of the arts and the community with live entertainment, spirits, and food. From Hwy 75, exit 40A, head east on Louisiana Street for 1.5 miles. 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 Farmers’ Market, Every Saturday 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

home to 43 exotic cats, including 3 rare white lions! We invite you to visit our sanctuary on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-6pm. There is a requested donation of $10/adult and $7/ child or senior (group rates available). Donations are tax deductible and all proceeds benefit the cats of In-Sync. www.insyncexotics.com

Arani Bellydance is a mom duo teaching beginner classes to ladies of all ages and sizes in downtown McKinney. Have fun, rediscover your curves, and shimmy like you mean it! Weekly classes are held Mondays at 1pm, Tuesdays & Thursdays at 8pm. Call Raena at 214-684-3966 for more info! www.aranibellydance.net

Support Groups

Plano Story Times Plano Public Library System www.planolibrary.org Friday nights 7-10 pm. Plano Sports Authority brings Martial Arts Parents Night Out to Plano!

Open to all PSA Families & you must rsvp in advance at 972-208-3817 or martialarts@psaplano.org.

Storytimes: Every Tuesday Toddlers at 9:30am Preschoolers 10:30am Contact Cody McMahan at 972-612-0999. At Barnes & Noble, Preston & Park 2201 Preston RD, Plano, TX 75093 All events are free and open to everyone crm2566@bn.com

Princeton Groove Kids, Every Sun & Wed. Absolutely free to kids newborn thru 6th grade - Groove Kids is the place to be to have fun, hang out with Christian friends, enjoy Bible stories, cool music, and more! Every Sunday 10:45-12:00 and Wednesday 7-8 at Family Worship Center in Princeton, TX on Highway 380 @ Tickety Drive. (Call for directions 469.450.7437) www.groovekids.com Southlake Kids Night at Chick-fil-A Southlake. Every Tuesday evening, Chick-fil-A Southlake offers free kids activities & loads of fun! 5:30-7:30pm at Chick-fil-A Southlake, 2301 E. Southlake Blvd., 817-481-7152 www.cfarestaurant.com/ southlake/home University Park Storytime for 4-5 year olds, Wednesdays at 3:45 pm, Story Time for Preschoolers, Thursdays @ 10:45 am - University Park Public Library - 6517 Hillcrest Avenue, Suite 110. www.uplibrary.org

Allen Moms Club of Allen www.allenmoms.com Allen Early Childhood PTA www.aecpta.com MOMS Offering Moms Support - Northeast Allen Club momscluballenne@yahoo.com Heart Link Network www.theheartlinknetwork.com

Anna Area North Collin County Moms Group www. meetup.com/sahm-3053 Arlington MOMS Club of North Central Arlington www. momsclub.org Carrollton Carrollton Early Childhood PTA www.cecpta.org Collin County Collin County Moms Meetup group moms. meetup.com/994/ Autism society of Collin County groups.yahoo. com/group/ascc2/join Autism society of Collin County Self-Advocacy Group For Teens groups.yahoo.com/group/ ascc2/join

Coppell/Valley Ranch Coppell/Valley Ranch Early Childhood PTA www.cvrecpta.org Dallas www.lbc-dallas.org Moms Club of Dallas: North Central Chapter info@momsclubofdallas.org Dallas Dyslexia Information Group La Leche League of Dallas www.lllofdallas.org/ otherhoodlater.com

Dallas/Collin County Free Parent Helpline www.dallasparents.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

Dallas/Plano/Frisco Far North Dallas Early Childhood PTA www. fndecpta.txpta.org

Meetup Group for the Entire FAMILY. groups.yahoo.com/group/familiesonthego

Fort Worth Its My Heart Support Group www.itsmyheart.org

Baylor Medical Centers provide ongoing

Frisco Frisco Cares Children’s Clinic www.friscocares.org

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/ Drama Kids International is designed to develop students speaking skills, presentation abilities, acting skills and confidence.

Visit our website www.dramakids.com or call 214.592.4066.

Wylie Visit Rescued Exotic Cats. In-Sync Exotics is

Denton Denton Area Mothers of Multiples damoms. clubspaces.com/Default_css.aspx Farmers Branch My Place early intervention play & communication groupno website given My Place early intervention play & communication group classes www.northdallasspeech.com

Frisco Early Childhood PTA www.friscoecpta.org

Lewisville Greater Lewisville Special Education PTSA www.lisdseptsa.txpta.org First Baptist Church of Lewisville MOPS fbclmops@gmail.com Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village Greater Lewisville Mothers & More www. mothersnmore.com

Little Elm Little Elm Epilepsy Support Group McKinney DivorceCare & DivorceCare 4 Kids www.mcfbc.org McKinney La Leche League of McKinney dlynn@dfwair.net MOMS Club of McKinney East momsmckinneyeast@yahoo.com Grandparents Raising Grandkids Support Group www.academicsplus.com MOMS Club of McKinney Central www.geocities.com/mckinneymoms Homemakers and CEOs www.homemakersandceos.com

Murphy/Sachse MOMS Club of Murphy/Sachse murphy_ sachse_moms@yahoo.com North Coppell MOMs Club of Coppell - NORTH www.momsclubofcoppell.org North Dallas Mocha Moms of North Dallas www.mochamomsnorthdallas.com

calendar for complete descriptions and up-to-date listings.

We add new events on an ongoing basis.

Submitting Events Our calendar of events is free to the community.

All events must be submitted online and will appear in print and on our website. Go to www.northtexaskids.com and click on the submissions button to add your event to our calendar. We reserve the right to edit submissions and give priority to familyfocused events.

North Richland Hills Autism Support Meeting www.featnt.org Plano Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support Group www.spdnetwork.org/parentconnection/us.html Mothers and Others www.setonmothersandothers.net Plano/Collin County branch of the AAUW www.aauwplanocc.org CHILD & FAMILY Guidance Center www. childrenandfamilies.org Collin County Early Childhood PTA Plano Kiwanis Club www.kiwanis.org/club/plano La Leche League of Plano www.lllusa.org/ web/PlanoTX.html MOMS Club of Plano North Central chapter www.planomomsclub.com/ MOMS Club of Plano-North www.momslubplanonorth.com

hogst ___________ tba _____________ whcit ___________ umppnik ________ trtea ____________ cyadn ___________ nuf ______________

MOMS Club of Plano Central momsclubplano_ central@yahoo.com Collin County Homeschool Playgroup. geocities.com/collincountyhomeschoolplaygroup/ Free diagnostic scoliosis screenings www.medicalcenterofplano.com Support and Activities for Food allergy Education www.safewithfoodallergies.com.

Garland Garland Area Early Childhood PTA www. earlychildhoodpta.com

SAT Prep Course urs_seiler@sbcglobal.net

Lake Highlands Lake Highlands Area Early Childhood PTA

Please visit our online

North Richland Hills Asperger’s Support Meeting www.featnt.org

Plano Educational Association of Christian

Irving Irving Homeschoolers www.irvinghomeschoolers.com

Wylie Moms & More www.wyliemomsandmore.org

North Dallas Mothers of Twins Club www. ndmotc.org

Early Childhood Intervention of LifePath Systems

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North Texas Kids • October 2010 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

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Helping Infants and Toddlers Develop Language Skills

by Gerry Haggard There are joys that come with the presence of a tiny child in the home. There are also important responsibilities placed on the caregivers. One of these is modeling beginning language skills that serve as the foundation of learning to read.

How can caregivers communicate with an infant? That very small person’s first attempt to communicate is crying, telling someone that he has a need. Listening parents learn to identify reasons for the crying. An adult can respond, meet the need, and speak in sentences of three words. “Are you wet?” etc.

Even before the age of six months, the baby begins to babble using vowels and consonant sounds that compose his home language. From birth on, singing and listening to nursery rhymes provide modeling for the sounds and words we want the child to produce.

Holding the baby and sharing books for a short period of time is recommended.

The infant may not listen to a complete story, but names of pictures and actions can be modeled. The baby may want to pat or play with the book. Read the same book many times. As the child begins to say simple words, repeat words from the story.

Make books available with his toys. The author’s great-granddaughter goes to a low shelf in her room and selects a book she wants to hear before bed each night.

Some of her first spoken words were from these stories.

The ability to repeat nursery rhymes and sing simple songs is recognized as a great predictor of later success in reading. An infant needs to hear the rhymes many times.

Essential skills for early reading success come from the child’s exposure to books, rhymes, and songs. He learns to listen and to respond. The ability to hear words and sounds within words is beginning to develop. The child’s ability to predict language and story happenings are facilitated.

The kindergarten child who has had heard many stories read develops two vocabularies. One is the receptive vocabulary that contains words that he hears, but that are not yet in his speech.

The second vocabulary is the expressive vocabulary which includes words that he uses in speech. The many books the child has heard read and the complete sentences used by the older family members around him help the young child use correct sentence structure.

My great-granddaughter, who was born in April of 2009, is stringing two words together. A favorite is “What’s at?’ The answers given to her in short sentences will help her enlarge her speaking vocabulary.

Between twelve and 24 months of age the infant triples the number of words in his speaking vocabulary. The adults in the infant’s world may not understand all of these words. Speaking is like walking. The first attempts are not always successful.

The one who is listening can keep modeling the new words and let the novice speaker know that he is pleasing an important person in his life.

Four pages of ideas for encouraging language and benchmarks for various ages can be found on Iowa State University website. The title of the article is “UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN, Language Development”.

A parent who is concerned that a pre-school child is not developing the language skills for his age can contact the Special Education Department of the local school district and ask for a language screening by a certified speech pathologist. There are several reasons why language development might be difficult for the child. The child may have an acuity problem. He may have difficulty discriminating between sounds. The child with articulation problems may need help with this last auditory skill. Frequent ear aches and/or the placement of tubes in the ear may result in these discrimination problems. Other learning problems can be identified.

Enjoy your small one and communicate with him or her. The following web sites may prove helpful to you. www.extension.iastate.edu/publications “UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN Language Development” and www.education.com includes three good articles: “Best Books to Read with Your Toddler”, “Nursery Rhymes”, and “Reading with Your Baby”.

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A Halloween Extravaganza!

At the Plano Centre Saturday, October 30, 2010 from 10am to 4pm FREE Family Expo benefiting the programs of CITY House

A Free Event for the Whole Family!

New & Improved Costume Contests for All Ages Beginning at 2pm On the Main Stage Live Entertainment • Arts & Crafts • Trick or Treating Bounce Houses • Face Painters • Over 100 Family-Friendly Vendors

www.northtexaskids.com/expo This event brought to you by the generous support of: