North Texas Kids September 2009 Issue

North Texas Your Family Guide to Raising Happy, Healthy Kids

Caroline, 3rd grade

In this issue:

Fine Arts Elevate Students / PLAY’s the Thing! / Help for Kids with Asthma / Arts and The Well-Rounded Child / September Calendar of Events North Texas Kids awarded Small Business of the Year for 2008 by Plano Chamber of Commerce

September 2009

FREE

www.northtexaskids.com North Texas Kids • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

1

2

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

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

7E TREAT CHILDREN FOR Feeding & Swallowing Disorders (including the need for Vital Stim Therapy) #EREBRAL 0ALSY s .EUROLOGICAL $ISORDERS s $OWN 3YNDROME $EVELOPEMENTAL $ELAY s 3ENSORY 0ROCESSING $ISORDERS 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...

OR s www.T2000.com

7ELCOME TO OUR &AMILY

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

3 

4

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

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

5

Contents September

l

Volume 7 No. 9

8

13

25

Fine Arts Elevate Students for the Future

12

Spotlight on H.E.B.

14

Kids In The Kitchen: Breakfast Bars

10

Parent Coaching: The Role of a Lifetime

15

Stretchin’ Dollars & Spendin’ Sense

23

Halloween Coloring Contest

13

It's Fun to Have Fun, But You Have to Know How

16

Emma's Kid-Friendly Restaurant Review

27

Labor Day Word Search

17

The PLAY’s the Thing!

20

Back to School Enrichment Guide

31

Grandparents Day Poem

18

TX Tough Bike Bash

29

Alexandria’s Book Review

19

Searching for a Dance School

30

Family Resource Guide

How To Get Ready For Football In Texas

24

A Celebration of Kids' Artwork

31

26

Focus on Advertisers

25

The Arts and The Well-Rounded Child

33

September Calendar of Events

37

Index Of Advertisers

8

28

Full-Wave Breathing Offers Immune Boost As Asthma Increases

29

North Texas Kids Use Spy Skills to Track Shady Characters

6

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

Note from the Publisher

Minette Riordan, Ph.D.

Finding Teachable Moments Outside the Classroom As I write this month's note

from the publisher, I am still

on vacation. We are spending

our annual two weeks in Petite

Riviere, Nova Scotia. Our family

has cottages right on the coast and it is an amazing place that I have

written about before. It's hard to be here and think about going back to

school so soon but as you read this, we are into our first week of the new year.

I have to say I am not the best

mom about encouraging my kids to stay on top of their academics during the summer. I tried to

wonderful and necessary for

Web/Media Designer

Brad Dobson bdobson@northtexaskids.com

it had been there for a while. The

admiration for the teachers who so

CMO

Cindy Watts cindyw@northtexaskids.com

all day long. I have been there and

Editor of Sports Scoop Mike Kravik

energy that it takes. I am grateful

Office/Sales Manager Heidi Schlabs

heidi@northtexaskids.com

had throughout my school years

Account Executives

several locals and discovered that local naturalists had come and

removed it's head for research. The turtle weighed 790 pounds and

they estimated it was 108 years old.

It's not often that you get to see

something like that and Brad and

I love using these opportunities as

teachable moments. No story book would have given the children the clear understanding of the size of

790 pounds. It's front flippers were easily two feet long.

The cottage where we are

staying is loaded with books that

with the busy-ness of camps and

up next to me reading one that

work and fun in the swimming

pool with their Uncle Tony visiting from Vancouver. Yet my kids are

learning all of the time and in ways that are much more enjoyable than the traditional classroom.

For example, we went for a

walk on Cherry Hill beach, not

far from our cottage. It's a favorite

beach for collecting beautiful rocks and finding all kinds of interesting flotsam and jetsam. This year, we found a headless sea turtle dead on the beach. It was a gigantic

leatherback that had washed up,

Minette Riordan minette@northtexaskids.com

who knows why. We talked to

instill a daily reading regimen

early on but it quickly fell apart

Publisher/Editor

are ages old. Maggie is curled belonged to her grandmother

as a child. At least once a day,

Grandad curls up surrounded by

his grandchildren (4 of them) and any other kids hanging around

and reads stories for hours on end.

He is a tireless reader with great passion and animation.

This afternoon if the water

warms up enough, we will go swimming and snorkeling,

collecting shells, tiny shrimp and

our children. I have nothing but

capably manage rooms full of kids

know the amount of time, love and for the wonderful teachers that I

and into college and grad school

but I am even more grateful for the wonderful teachers of my children who have encouraged them in their love of learning and will

listen patiently to twenty children share their own exciting summer adventures.

Texas Kids and MomsOutLoud.com can serve as useful resources for everything you might need! We

have lots of fun in store this fall,

so make sure you sign up for our

e-newsletters and Facebook pages to keep up to date with all the goings-on.

I hope that every day is an

adventure for you and your family!

As always, happy reading.

Cindy Johnson Nancy Luttinger Jana McClinton Lori O'Connell Kristene Richardson Cindy Watts

Creative Dir. /Designer Brittany Allen

2nd Story Design brittany@2ndstorydesign.com

Printed by

Midway Press, Dallas Tx

Mailing Address

Scissortail Publishing

700 E. Park Blvd. #110 Plano, Texas 75074

Phone

972-516-9070

Fax

972-516-9048

As you continue to plan your

fall activities, I hope that North

mike@northtexaskids.com

North Texas Kids is a Division of Scissortail Publishing LLC. North Texas Kids is published 12 times a year.

Copyright 2009 by North Texas Kids©. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. North Texas Kids encourages your submission of articles, children’s artwork, photographs and ideas. We reserve the right to edit all submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication. Recommended article length is 500 to 800 words. Viewpoints of the articles are not necessarily the viewpoints of North Texas Kids. Materials will not be returned.

Advertising is accepted at the discretion of the Publisher. Advertisers assume all liability for the

other sea creatures. Science at our

content of their printed advertisements and agree

fingertips.

to indemnify North Texas Kids and its publisher for

Not to say that school isn't

any and all claims and expenses arising therefrom.

Cover Artist...

HALLOWEEN ART NEEDED!

Caroline

Deadline is September 10.

North Texas Kids loves kids’ art. Feel free to send us your child’s Masterpiece.

Caroline is 8 years old and is a third grader at Wyatt Elementary in Plano ISD. She enjoys crafts, dancing, piano, and playing with her cat, Domino.

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 • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

7

Fine Arts Elevate Students For The Future The Arts of Collin County performing arts hall and arts park is designed to entertain audiences, embrace artists of all ages and elevate the local arts scene. The design is complete and fundraising is in the final stage. This innovative community project resides on a 100+ acre wooded site just east of the intersection of Sam Rayburn Tollway/121 and Custer Road in Allen, which will be home to a 2,100 seat performance hall equipped with state-ofthe-art acoustics designed to show case everything from Broadway shows to performances by local arts groups. The site includes an outdoor meadow which accommodates up to 3,000 guests for concerts and festivals as well as a planned sculpture garden, botanical garden, walking trails and creeks, educational classrooms and art gallery space all to create a unique arts and cultural venue.

With North Texas’ population projected to reach over 9 million by 2030, of which 28% will be under the age of 18, there must be even more of an emphasis on arts and a cultural climate in order to sustain the region’s leadership role in quality of life with exceptional neighborhoods, schools and citizens.

It is no secret to college recruiters that students who participate in fine arts programs are more likely to score higher on standardized test scores, possess critical thinking skills, have great personal discipline and have an appreciation for the world around them. These characteristics make them appealing candidates for our many excellent colleges as well as the corporate world. The arts within schools are the key component to 21st century learning skills such as creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking which comprise the creative work force.

In North Texas, three times as many students participate in fine arts programs as sports. This includes the thousands of students who participate in marching band, orchestra, choir, theatre, speech, visual art, drill Arts enhance team, color guard and dance.

The arts influence how children problem-solving skills, learn at even the earliest age.

The arts help teach high-order thinking skills, shapes, color recognition, size differentiation, letter and self-discipline, teamwork, number recognition, phonic recognition, sequencing, self-motivation, following directions, handeye and motor coordination, and self-esteem kinesthetic and spatial relationships, and direction and location, all of which contribute to their over-all education.

As students imagine, create, and reflect, they are developing both verbal and nonverbal abilities necessary to school progress. At the same time, they are developing problem-solving abilities and higher-order thinking skills. Research points toward a consistent and positive correlation between a substantive education in the arts and student achievement in other subjects and on standardized tests. A comprehensive, articulated arts education program also engages students in a process that helps them develop the self-discipline, cooperation, and self-motivation necessary for self-esteem and success in life.

In today’s global economy, the arts influence people’s understanding of other cultures, unique means of expression and in the interdependence of work in the arts within the broader worlds of ideas and actions.

8

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

In building a place for future generations to appreciate and practice the arts, the Arts of Collin County performing arts hall and arts park, recognizes the need to serve upcoming generations. North Texas students are highly motivated to express themselves through the arts and more than ever are participating in fine arts in schools and independent programs. Music, dance and visual art studios are rapidly expanding throughout the area to meet this demand. Yet these students do not have adequate facilities to perform and master their art. Not only is there a need from students; artists of all ages seek a place to express and nurture their talents.

Limited venues, high costs and travel prohibit many student and community groups from attending events or performing in Dallas, Fort Worth or other larger area venues.

With the Arts of Collin County located within 15 miles of every area school and neighborhood, artists and fans of the arts will all enjoy art, nature, culture and the spirit of community – right in their own backyard. While there are many small venues throughout this area, none can host international and national scale events such as Broadway, musical performances, traveling children’s shows, plays and more. The Arts of Collin County will provide even more reason for these entertainers to include North Texas and Collin County as they plan their tours. By creating a reputation as a place that values and supports the arts through the development of the new arts district and venues in Dallas; the continued strong support of Bass Hall in Fort Worth; and now the development of this world class performing arts hall and park in Collin County, we will attract the highest quality of performers and touring companies to this region. Not only will citizens be entertained, but students will benefit from specialized master classes and programs taught by leaders in their field that are drawn to the all encompassing arts environment created by the Arts of Collin County.

With over 80% of the funds already committed, we need parents, citizens and businesses to contribute financially to ensure this rare opportunity happens. We only need $12 million to get started. The Arts of Collin County initiative is like no other in North Texas and will leave a legacy for future generations. Imagine the possibilities – be a part of it.

Please get involved and donate today! Donations accepted online www.artsofcollincounty.org

Art Associations & Organizations Regional

Sammons Center for the Arts

Allen Arts Alliance

Titas

Arts Council of Fort Worth & Tarrant County

Van Cliburn Foundation

Arts of Collin County

Video Association of Dallas

Collin County Songwriters Association

VSA Arts of Texas

Dallas Arts District

Visual Arts Guild of Frisco

Dallas chapter/Am. Institute of Graphic Arts

Dance Companies

Dallas Historical Society

Allen Civic Ballet

Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs

Chamberlain Ballet, Plano

The Dance Council (Dallas)

Collin County Ballet Theatre

DFW Writer's Workshop

Contemporary Dance Fort Worth

The Five Hundred Inc.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre

Fort Worth Cultural District

Dallas Metropolitan Ballet

Greater Denton Arts Council

The Plano Dance Theater

Northeast Texas Regional Arts Consortium

Tuzer Ballet

Orchestras & Ensembles

Texas Scottish Festival

Allen Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra

USA Film Festival

Arlington Community Band Chamber Music International

Museums & Non-Commercial Galleries

Cliburn Concerts

African American Museum of Dallas

Cross Timbers Youth Orchestra

Amon Carter Museum

Dallas Bach Society

Arlington Museum of Art

Dallas Chamber Orchestra

Biblical Arts Center

Dallas Classical Guitar Society

City of Plano Municipal Galleries

Dallas Jazz Orchestra Dallas Opera Dallas Symphony Orchestra Fine Arts Chamber Players Fort Worth Civic Orchestra Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Frisco Community Band Frontier Drum & Bugle Corps

Contemporary Arts Museum Crow Collection of Asian Art Dallas Center for Contemporary Art Dallas Museum of Art Fort Worth Community Arts Center Hayden Museum of American Art International Museum of Cultures Irving Art Center Kimbell Art Museum

Indian Classical Music Circle

Madi Museum

Irving Symphony Orchestra

McKinney Avenue Contemporary

Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra

Meadows Museum at SMU

Metropolitan Winds

Mexic-Art Museum

New Symphony of Arlington

The Menil Collection

Orchestra of New Spain

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Plano Community Band

Nasher Sculpture Center

Plano Symphony Orchestra

Texas Sculpture Garden

Richardson Symphony

Texas State History Museum

Opera Companies & Choruses

Thanksgiving Square

Arlington Choral Society Arlington Goodtimes Chorus Arts District Chorale Children's Chorus of Greater Dallas Frisco Chorale Helios Ensemble Irving Chorale

Theatre Bath House Cultural Center Cara Mia Theatre Casa MaĂąana

Dallas Summer Musicals Dallas Theatre Center

Plano Civic Chorus

Denton Community Theatre

Texas Boys Choir

Duncanville Community Theatre

Turtle Creek Chorale

Echo Theatre

UNT Jazz Ensembles

Frisco Area Children's Theatre

Younger Generation Chorus

Frisco Community Theatre

Voices of Change

Garland Civic Theatre

McKinney Youth Theatre

Meyerson Symphony Center

Music Theatre of Denton

Nokia Live at Grand Prairie

Onstage in Bedford

Reunion Arena

Plano Children's Theatre

Smirnoff Music Center

Pocket Sandwich Theatre

Annual Regional Events

Quad C Theatre

Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival

e FrSe V

1

oons

Ball Dozen

Free XS

] VX] SY GEPP F ;LIR ] ]SYV TE YV GLSMGI I S ] VZ [ VIWI RMWX ORS ]

S VX VIWIVZEXM ZEXI TE 0IX ]SYV ]SYV GLMPHÂľW TVM PI ] T NS Q R WM I X

-XÂľW XLE

)\TMVIW

'EPP XSHE] XS VIWIVZI ]SYV Private 4YQT -X 9T 4EVX]

Contact: Michelle Beck MA mbeck@pumpkinlittles.com Dallas, Texas • 972-569-7141

www.PumpkinLittles.com

ˆ [[[ TYQTMXYTTEVX] GSQ

4YQT -X 9T SJ 4PERS -*)* >' IZkd ;eo]' *,.

IeZgh% M^qZl 0.)0-

ICT Main Stage Lakeside Community Theatre

Frisco Arts Festival

Pizza

Ice House Cultural Center

McKinney Performing Arts Center

Denton Arts & Jazz Festival

Contact us now for our Two-Week Intensive school readiness and maintenance program.

(6:3 student to teacher ratio)

e 1 Larg

Hip Pocket Theatre

Kitchen Dog Theatre

Dallas Video Festival

Developmental Delays At Pumpkin Littles, children receive early intervention through a combination of the most renowned autism education principles including but not limited to ABA, TEACCH, RDI, DIR, and EDMARK, which are blended to form an individualized approach.

Greater Lewisville Community Theatre

Majestic Theatre

Dallas ArtFest

Private Parties! ;I TVSZMHI E TVMZEXI TPE] EVIE WS MXÂľW NYWX ]SY ERH ]SYV KYIWXW IRNS]MRK XLI TEVX]

Garland Civic Theatre's Children on Stage

Fair Park Music Hall

Cottonwood Arts Festival

Come Experience Our

Coppell Community Theatre

Orpheus Chamber Singers

Charles W. Eisemann Center

AUTISM

It’s Party Time!!

Circle Theatre Dallas Children's Theater

Bass Performance Hall

Pumpkin Littles believes there is hope with many approaches to reach the child with autism. We just need to ďŹ nd the right path for that child.

Children's Theatre of Frisco

Note-ably North TX Chap.of Sweet Adelines Intl.

American Airlines Center

Path

The Women's Museum

The Living Opera

Performance Spaces

ht Finding the Rig

Richardson Theatre Center Rover Dramawerks Science Place & TI Founders' IMAX Theatre Shakespeare Festival of Dallas Stage West Teatro Dallas TeCo Theatrical Productions

May Fest

Theatre Arlington

North Texas Irish Festival

Undermain Theatre

State Fair of Texas

Word of Mouth Productions North Texas Kids  •  September 2009  •  www.NorthTexasKids.com

9 

Our Heart is in Caring for You!

Specializing in Pediatric Home Healthcare

3 Main Offices t %BMMBT t "EEJTPO t 'PSU 8PSUI 4FSWJDFT BWBJMBCMF JO %BMMBT $PMMJO %FOUPO 5BSSBOU TVSSPVOEJOH DPVOUJFT

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

Meet Max & Joey Buddy Detectives!

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

Written by local author Glo Jenkins Brown This is a fantasy mystery novel about Joey Taylor and his lovable rescue dog Max, who witnesses a hit-and-run accident.

Schedule an author visit today! glo@wordsrme.com

Buy it today on Amazon.com!

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

Does your child need a boost with academic skills or social skills acquisition?

Social Thinking Classes Now Available

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

Rich Educational Consulting

Where the Only Limitation is the Imagination!

Locations in Dallas, Collin and Denton Counties 972-447-8390 c www.richeducationalconsulting.com

10

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

The Role Of A Lifetime Local Parenting Expert Provides Life-changing Career Opportunity

by Tessa Falk My two-year-old is notorious for head-butting. For months I feared I had an overly aggressive tot on my hands and I was at a loss as to what to do.

So, I called a coach. A parenting coach.

Minette Riordan, publisher of North Texas Kids and ACPI (Academy for Coaching Parents International) certified coach for parents explained that my little guy was, in his own tot-like way, showing affection. “Parents are tired of hearing what’s wrong and what doesn’t work,� shares Dr. Caron Goode, a pediatric psychotherapist who founded ACPI in Fort Worth. “They are seeking skills and solutions, which is what a parent coach offers — simple steps to connect, communicate, set boundaries, coparent, etc.�

A profession virtually unheard of a few years ago, parent coaching is a rising trend that’s sweeping through family circles nationwide. And since ACPI, one of the nation's leading parent-coaching programs opened in 2003, more than 90 individuals have become certified in this growing profession under Goode's innovative tutelage.

Offered through online, in-person and telecommuting course options, ACPI appeals to high-caliber professionals and seasoned parents who want to make a difference, while making ends meet. “This career attracts individuals who love to learn, are confident and understand that making a difference in today’s family will contribute to a better tomorrow,� says Goode. “The joke within the parent coaching community is to build a business and get paid for doing what you love – helping others.�

So, just how much is this in-demand service paying out? Anywhere from $25 to $250 an hour, says Goode, who adds that previous experience, specialization and service area all impact a coach’s specific fee.

A trend perpetuated by parents’ increasing demand for professional guidance that fits into their chaotic schedules, parent coaches typically provide professional sessions over the phone or via e-mail so as not to interrupt work or family time. “Parents are busier than ever before and they’re running as fast as they can to meet all of their responsibilities,� shares Goode. “Therefore, when they come up against a behavioral or developmental problem, parents often lack the focus to deal with it effectively. A parent coach acts as an objective mentor who offers encouragement, support and solutions to the everyday bumps of parenthood.�

During our chat, Riordan helped me to see my son’s head-butting habits for what they truly are — a display of his unconditional love expressed in the only way he knows how. “By far, the most fun part of being a parent coach is seeing relationships improve and parents begin to understand and enjoy their children in new ways,� shares Riordan. “The process we use as ACPI coaches is to help parents understand their children and work with their strengths, to treat their children with love and respect. It is a simple and profound shift in how we relate to our children that, for me, changed my own parenting for the better.�

Tessa Falk is an award-winning freelance writer who lives in Little Elm with her husband, Chris, and loving head-butter, Cooper.

Parent Coaching Q & A Q: What is a parenting coach?

A: A mentor who listens, identifies challenges and offers solutions, while helping moms and dads feel empowered and confident in their parenting skills.

Q: Who can become a parenting coach?

Check Website for Fall Schedule

A: Anyone who is interested in making a difference in the lives of both parents and children.

Q: How does it work?

A Parent-Child Learning Experience

A: Usually through 45-60 minute weekly phone chats for a minimum of three months. Other options include one-on-one, in-person sessions, home visits, parent education classes and speaking engagements.

Q: What is the earning potential?

A: $25-$250 per hour, dependent upon experience, specialization, service area and delivery method (in-person, on-the-phone, etc.)

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

www.itsasensoryworld.com Venue for home treatment PT/OT programs• Preschool preparation classes for children with special needs • Staff-guided/parent-guided sensory circuit•Tutoring Licensed PlayWisely location• Small group classes

Fast Track Your Parent-Coaching Career If you’re ready to get in on this burgeoning, home-based business, Dr. Caron Goode, founder of The Academy for Coaching Parents International (ACPI), is hosting a Fast Track program at a huge discount next month:

Who: Anyone who wants to embark on a lucrative, life-changing career What: ACPI Fast Track Program — The Role Of A Lifetime Where: Holiday Inn Express, Irving, Texas When: October 9-11, 2009 Why: Gain three months of coursework in three days and save $1,000 How: Register now at www.AcademyForCoachingParents.com

NOW YOU CAN ENJOY OUR FRESH, NEVER FROZEN, BURGERS AND HAND STIRRED SHAKES AT HOME, AT THE OFFICE, OR AT A CORPORATE OR PERSONAL EVENT! CALL FOR OUR DIVERSE CATERING MENU. SIT BACK AND LET THE COW COOK FOR YOU! Dallas

214-373-0037 Preston Royal Shopping Center Suite 110 Dallas, TX 75230

Plano

972-473-6100 LakeSide Market Suite 588 5809 Preston Rd. Plano, TX 75093

Ft. Worth

817-737-7177 Chapel Hill Shopping Center 4601 W. Freeway Ft. Worth, TX 76107

Are You Worried About School This Year?

Your student can achieve tangible results like Ivy. d this d foun when we ha go a s r I wish a ye am 5 r blems g o o r r p gp arnin le ed. oney ’s iz y Iv ecogn time and m first r andt of B were lo ly a n re o asted of the at we y We w n th a s s ogram n’t addres or in d on pr a g did sn’t re They a has . s w in e id a A sh br s why w her n o o s N a . re ding rehen f comp cked. , mother o lo n u y ley been Brad vy Bradle la u - Pa ar old I 11-ye

It’s Intense, It’s Fun and Results are Guaranteed.*

*We guarantee your child will see results of two years improvement.

$100 off

Voted 2009 “Center of the Year”

an assessment with this ad.

Expires 09-30-2009

www.LearningRX.com 972-267-8900 North Texas Kids • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

11

Spotlight on H.E.B. - Hurst, Euless, Bedford fun events...

7DD@ NDJG E6GIN ID96N H6K:

Event:

FabEuless Trails of Treasure

Saturday, September 19, 2009 • 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Want a fun, free activity to do with your family with a chance to

win FabEuless prizes? To celebrate the National Week in Play, the

City of Euless will hold the FabEuless Trails of Treasure outdoor

scavenger hunt on Saturday, September 19 between 7:30 a.m. and

5:30 p.m. Your family could win the Ultimate Family Fun Pack, which

will include a Family membership to the Midway Recreation Center,

$250 in free programs, free swimming for an entire year, and a

$100 gift card to Academy Sports and Outdoors. You'll even win

prizes just for participating. Please visit euless.org/playday or call the

Recreation Center at 817-685-1666 for more details.

Event:

?JBE! 7DJC8:! HA>9: IN OUR IN•LATABLE PLAY CENTER ;G:: L>";>

Bedford Labor Day Blues & BBQ Festival

Bedford Bluesfest! Music lovers with an appetite for

tasty blues & mouth-watering barbecue will find the

2009 City of Bedford Labor Day Blues & BBQ Festival

a feast for the senses. 2-day event is returning

Jca^b^iZY EaVn 6aa 9Vn :K:GN96N

"OOMERANGS IS A GREAT PLACE FOR "ACK TO 3CHOOL GET TOGETHERS 04! FUNDRAISERS #ALL FOR INFORMATION

September 5-6, 2009 6205 Coit Road • Plano, TX 75024 • 214-473-9995 2301 Cross Timbers • Flower Mound, TX 75028 • 469-549-4400 147 E. Harwood Rd. • Hurst, TX 76054 • 817-503-8100

around town...

Visit us at www.boomerangspartyandplay.com

'% d[[ V EVgin EVX`V\Z

quick facts...

Wdd`ZY Wn .$(% l^i] Xdjedc#

8djedc XVc cdi WZ XdbW^cZY l^i] di]Zg d[[Zgh#

Exp. 9/30/09 NTK 2009

www.city-data.com/city/Bedford-Texas.html

l Combined population of 137,000 l HEB Independent School District serves 19,540 students from pre-K to Grade 12 l Euless is named after Elisha Adam Euless, a native of Tennessee who moved to Texas in 1867 and later bought 170 acres of land on the current intersection of North Main St. and West Euless Boulevard.[4] Elisha started a Cotton Gin and a community center on his property, and quickly became a prominent figure among other settlers. The community developed around the land Elisha owned and decided to name the city "Euless," in honor of a successful businessman and farmer.

From Costumes Rentals to Dance Shoes We Have Everything You Need!

Costume Rentals • Costume Sales • Dancewear Dance Shoes • And so much more...

Historical, animal, theme & party costumes for all ages, infant to adult. Also, makeup, wigs, hats & accessories.

Odyssey Theatrical

500 N. Kimball Suite 104 Southlake, TX 76092 Located just north of 114

10% Off

with this a d.

Go od for one use only.

817.416.0063 www.odysseytheatrical.com 12  

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

It’s fun to have fun, but you have to

know how!

by Julie R. Liberman When most people think of speech therapy, typically sound errors, grammar issues, or auditory processing difficulties come to mind. However, one aspect of speech-language therapy that has typically been overlooked is pragmatics, or the social use of language. Today, with a continued increase in diagnosis of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), direct instruction in social skills has moved to the front of the line for intervention.

Autism is considered a “social language disorder”, therefore it is common for individuals with ASD’s to experience difficulties relating with others. Skills such as initiating interactions with others, maintaining conversational topics, and ending conversation appropriately often need to be explicitly taught through direct intervention. Speech-language pathologists are well-equipped to teach such skills, although many special education teachers, counselors, and psychologists also target these areas in their intervention as well.

In the meantime, here are a few simple ways YOU the parent, can target social skills, too!

•

Use objects to indicate a person’s turn. Something as simple as a small ball or glow stick can be given to the child to hold on to when it is their turn. When it is someone else’s turn, the object is then transferred to the next person. This visual cue can really help with turntaking.

•

Use objects to keep a child actively engaged in interactions. Typically, maintaining direct eye contact can be difficult for individuals with ASD’s. Therefore, I request that my students cue into something such as my necklace, brooch, or a small stuffed animal resting on my shoulder, rather than direct eye-to-eye contact. I tell them to look towards the item, so that they are turned toward my vicinity and therefore better able to participate in the conversation.

•

Turn any simple activity into a turn-taking activity. For example, take turns putting pieces into a shape sorter or peg board or

www.yogenfrüz.com 214.890.7788 Preston Forest Village behind Clotheshorse Anonymous

11661 Preston Rd. #240 Dallas, TX

972.414.4041 Firewheel Town Center

With This Ad. Expires 11/15/09.

Not valid wth any other offers.

Buy One Get One

1/2 Off

near Kay Jewelers

Equal or Lesser Value

470 Coneflower Dr. Garland, TX

With This Ad. Expires 11/15/09.

Not valid wth any other offers.

placing blocks building a block tower. Take turns making a “Mr. Potato Head” figure by having one person choose the eyes, one person choose the nose, etc.

•

20% Off

Any Purchase

Use food! As adults, we often get together with friends over coffee, dinner, brunch, etc. Don’t underestimate the power of food in eliciting conversational topics and adding to the overall comfort level of an interaction. Discussion topics can include favorite (and least favorite!) foods, favorite restaurants, how and what to order when out to eat, food tastes, textures, smells, and more!

•

Train siblings and/or peers to help work on social skills. Being included in a structured play activity is beneficial for the “typical” sibling or peer to better understand how to play together effectively. Explaining in a direct way such as, “Simon has trouble sharing and taking turns, but that is something you are really good at. Can you help me teach him how?” allows the sibling or classroom peer an opportunity to also be the teacher!

These are a few simple ways to work on social skills. Of course the possibilities are endless- all you need is a little guidance and a lot of imagination! Speech TX offers several options for targeting social skills including direct instruction, small structured play groups, sibling play groups, and even real-life community outings! Contact Julie for more details at: 214.336.9342 or Julie_slp@yahoo.com North Texas Kids • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

13

Kids in the kitchen

Whole Grain Raspberry Breakfast Bars Healthy & Yummy all at the same time!!!

Ingredients: Breakfast Bars 1-1/2 3/4 2/3 1/3 1/4 1 1/3 1

Hand & Footprint Designs

cups regular or quick oats cup whole wheat flour cup packed brown sugar cup walnut pieces cup wheat germ teaspoon cinnamon cup canola or vegetable oil large egg

Raspberry filling 1 1/4 2 2

package (6 ounces) Driscoll’s Raspberries cup granulated sugar tablespoons cornstarch tablespoons lemon juice

Making the Breakfast Bars: Crosses, Mugs, Cookie Jars

Host a Party & Save 25%

Breakfast Bars Combine oats, flour, sugar, walnuts and cinnamon in a food processor.

Process until oats and walnuts are finely ground. Add oil and egg; pulse to evenly combine, scraping sides of work bowl.

Press half of the crumb mixture evenly on bottom of a 9-inch square pan. Spread raspberry filling evenly over crumbs. Top with remaining crumbs and pat down gently.

Bake 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely in pan. Cut into bars.

Raspberry Filling Preheat oven to 350ºF. Combine raspberries, sugar, cornstarch and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil.

Simmer, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until sauce is thick and translucent. Remove from heat.

Helpful Tips:

The Painted Pottery 469-254-1540

14

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

• Two minutes is the magic time it takes for cornstarch to thicken and turn clear – be sure to stir the fruit and cornstarch while simmering.

• Pressing the crumbs firmly into the pan and on top of the berry filling is important to make the bars hold together.

Stretchin’ Dollars

& Spendin’ Sense

Printing and Mailing

Buy Or Borrow, That is the Question

By Tina Ferguson, a.k.a. The Queen of Dreams When my son, Chance, was born we spent less than $1,000 total for EVERYTHING needed to bring our bundle of love home. I quit my job and started my business the same week we conceived the little guy, so I didn’t know until three weeks later that my whole world was shifting in a big financial way.

We planned to cut expenses, and save for me to stay at home for the first three months. That decision meant that each purchase took on new meaning. For instance, is this cool diaper wipe warmer really needed or do I like the idea of it?

I don’t have one feeling or one memory of feeling as if we didn’t have everything we needed, yet that experience taught me a lot about the distance between the story we tell ourselves about why we buy and the truth.

Here are some of the ways you can cut purchases while also building community.

Short-term, One-use Borrow – Let’s count the ways we buy items that we use either one-time, a few times a year or extremely infrequently. Tents, ice chests, punch bowls, bread makers, and pretty much anything else in your storage unit. For these one-time use items, plan to always borrow them. Make a list of people who have what, and then just consult your directory when you need something. A friend told me that her entire neighborhood borrows.

For all of your personal or business printing needs.

Party Invites Labels and Stickers Posters, Letterhead Personalized Christmas Cards PTA and Youth Group Flyers Business Cards and More!

Thank You

www.csmtx.com

)NTRODUCING

rk Rader Lawton Cla

Thank You Notes Ph: 982-546-5647 buffy248@abc.com

“Mommy” Business Cards

3ARA *ESSICA 0RADO

$ECEMBER

PM LBS OZ INCHES 0ROUD 0ARENTS *ESSE AND #INDY 0ROUD "ROTHERS !DAM AND .OAH

Birth Announcements

Bring this ad to receive 120 FREE Business cards!

Long-term Loans – We borrowed nearly everything for Chance’s birth.

From a bassinet to the onesies to my ‘rented’ maternity clothes. I knew if I had another child it would be highly unlikely the clothes would still be in style so when the idea ‘popped’ into my mind I thought, why not? Find a friend, or a circle of friends, and do a decorators swap. Or a service swap. Or some other super creative way of swapping. Even craigslist.com has its form of swap under the area of barter. You just never know what is going to show up under there.

Try Before You Buy – Now this might sound strange, but let’s admit it.

Most of the reasons (if not all) we buy are emotional. We believe this ‘thing’ or this ‘experience’ is going to mean something. Usually we think it will mean something good. If you can test drive a car for an entire weekend, why not other things such as a Kitchen Aid mixer or a $120 Chi Flat Iron? If you borrow it, and the you find you really don’t *want* it, just return it and consider it a big savings!

The more you practice not buying the more creative you’ll be about getting what you need without busting out the Benjis. Creative living is the term I like to use. Less waste, less storage, and more LIVING. Share your creative ideas with others by sending us your ideas, your stories, and your photos and we’ll share them with others on our blog!

Tina Ferguson, a.k.a., The Queen of Dreams, is CEO of Rapid Success Partners. She is an award-winning author and business strategist who has assisted individuals and business owners to accelerate wealth creation. She loves to ignite the fire inside of people to do what they dream of and to serve others in the process. For more information about Tina visit www.TinaFerguson. com. For more Savin’ Dollars and Spendin’ Sense tips visit www.NorthTexasKids.com.

Tina Ferguson, a.k.a. The Queen of Dreams North Texas Kids • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

15

Emma’s Kid Friendly Restaurant Review

Sam’s Burger House 4152 W Spring Creek Pkwy Plano, TX 75024-5314 • (972) 599-2300

by Emma Bonin The first time I went to Sam’s

dogs, veggie burgers, fries and onion

Burger House was with my good

friends. It’s a really cute atmosphere

rings.

The next week I was already back

with tons of cows. They have

at Sam’s with my mom and brother.

like chairs at each table.

been on a hunt for the best burger.

comfortable red and purple leather-

You might remember that Jack has

Well, he says that Sam’s is the best.

I had the kid’s burger and so

I’m pretty sure that my mom liked it

did my friends, Charlie and Grace.

considering we went back two days

Their mom had the BLT. We all ate our whole meal, except for Charlie, but she’s only 2. When we finished our sandwiches, we got a free cookie.

There is a table in the middle of the restaurant with a tray of fresh cookies.

The menu is mostly burgers, as you would expect. One thing is that they use only use only Certified Angus beef and fresh produce. You can also get chicken sandwiches, salads, hot

later and took one of Jack’s friends with us.

It’s a great restaurant! Everyone

should try it! Sam’s Burger House is

located at the southwest corner of Coit and Spring Creek in Plano.

Emma Bonin is a fifth-grader at Hughston Elementary. She lives in Plano with her mom, dad, and brother, Jack. She is an avid soccer player and enjoys swimming, computer games, baking, and getting together with friends.

PROFESSIONAL JANITORIAL SERVICES • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL FREE ESTIMATES

Mention this ad for a 1st time discount on any of our services.

Look on our website for more great coupons for residential and commercial services. www.alljanitorial.net

Let us give you the GIFT of time.

Residential, Commercial, Industrial & Construction Cleanup * Insured & Bonded * Restaurants * Schools * Malls * Churches

* Private Residences * Apartments & Condos * Office Cleaning - Large or Small * Nursing Homes

* Any Type of Construction Cleanup * Floor Stripping, Waxing, and Carpet Cleaning * Day Porter Services * Construction Laborers

NO JOB IS TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL. WE DO IT ALL. JUST ONE CALL AWAY!

972-516-9550 900 Ave. K, Ste. 150, Plano, TX 75074

References Provided Upon Request 16

Member: BBB, Plano Frisco & Dallas Chambers of Commerce

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

Minority/Women Owned Business

The PLAY’s the thing!

How to raise smart, well adjusted kids with theater

by Lisa Schreiner At Dallas Children’s Theater,

play, they will be challenged to

our mission is “to develop the

envision new solutions and to try

inspiring them to rewarding

honor auditory, kinetic and visual

theater arts and arts-in-education

learning differences a chance to

be wondering: what does this mean?

demonstrates the value of

“extracurricular” be an educational

perfect. Through opportunities to

powerful ways theater can enhance

how to present their own personal

minds and ideas of our children,

again. Theater games and activities

and productive lives through

intelligences, giving students with

programs.” As a parent, you may

shine. Rehearsing for a performance

How can something considered

persistence and why practice makes

tool? Here are some of the very

express themselves they explore

your child’s development:

voice and unique vision to the

theater is a shared family

someone else’s shoes, they learn

springboard for conversation, which

with empathy and understanding.

reflect and think critically. The

Graduate School of Education

play help them understand values

increases academic performance and

Going to the professional

experience. It is a fantastic

helps develop a child’s ability to subject matter and themes of a

and perspective, which result in

developing new ways of thinking, morals and beliefs. By watching

characters grapple with situations they themselves might struggle

with at home or at school, they learn problem solving techniques and

conflict resolution. Talking to your child about what they saw, asking

them if they have any questions and encouraging them to act out their

favorite parts back at home are great ways to reinforce universal ideas

about living a good life and how to become a better person.

Whether or not your child has

dreams of pursuing the stage or the big screen, taking an acting

class or performing in a play has

even more fantastic benefits. They learn to work collaboratively in

an environment where risk taking is encouraged because mistakes lead to creative discovery and

an enhanced ability to accept the unexpected. Through positive

encouragement, imagination and

world. And by stepping into

how to make connections to others Studies conducted at UCLA’s

show that participating in the arts

improves standardized test scores.

They are less likely to drop out of

school and more likely to participate in community service, becoming

adults who value volunteerism and philanthropy. Starting them early, as young as 3 or 4, will hardwire their brains to be consistently

flexible, creative and innovative

throughout their life - an extremely valuable commodity in today’s

internet driven, conceptual age!

Best of all, theater is fun,

and a great activity for the entire

family. So get thee to the theater for experiences that will stay with you and your child for a lifetime!

Wondering how to bring more

theater to your child’s life? Visit

www.dct.org or call the DCT box

office at 214-740-0051 to learn more about Dallas Children’s Theater.

Lisa Schreiner fell in love with theater at age 4 and has been a passionate advocate of the art form ever since. She is PR Director for Dallas Children’s Theater.

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

17

Now Enrolling for Fall Preschool Classes!

Within every child is the voice, the movement, the language of music. And for your child, there is no greater pleasure than when you join in their play. Musikgarten is the key that opens the door to your child’s unique world.

THE TX TOUGH BIKE BASH: YOU PLAY, KIDS WIN Benefiting Children’s Medical Center On Sunday, Sept. 20, grab your family and your bikes, trikes, cruisers and bike trailers and head to Dallas’ Victory Park for the TX Tough Bike Bash. This event will offer a fun, easy ride for friends and families of all ages and skill levels on a 6.2-mile, traffic-free bike route through downtown Dallas, as well as a variety of fun and fitness activities. While there’s no racing involved (the course is untimed), there are clear winners: the little ones being treated by Children’s Medical Center.

TX Tough, benefiting Children’s Medical Center, gives those with a passion for children the opportunity to directly make a difference in the lives of young kids with health challenges. The model is simple – sign up, form a team and pledge to raise money through TX

• Flexible schedules

Tough running, swimming or biking events. Participants can then fundraise for a specific program, service or clinic at Children’s that

• All Teachers have Early Childhood

inspires them. You might even use this as an opportunity to demonstrate the importance of helping others to your own kids.

Training • Parent/Child Music and Movement Classes for Ages Birth to 5 Years • Trained Musikgarten Instructors

Entry fees and sponsorships cover all production expenses, so 100 percent of donations received by TX Tough go directly to participants’ personal causes at Children’s Medical Center, whether it be the Heart Clinic that helped a neighbor’s child, the Center of Cancer & Blood Disorders that is treating your child’s classmate or a general donation to the hospital that gave your little one’s stitches

• Excellent Facilities

and put your mind at ease during an unexpected emergency room visit. In 2008, TX Tough’s first year, 105 local fundraising teams

• Convenient Location

raised $320,000 for Children’s Medical Center.

• Now Enrolling For Fall - Morning,

The TX Tough Bike Stage, with its “something for everyone” approach was designed by

Afternoon & Weekend Classes

Executive Director Geoff Godsey, a former competitive cyclist and a father of two young girls with a passion for what Children’s Medical Center does for North Texas kids. He said, “We want everyone to know there’s a way for them to get involved with helping children through TX Tough, no matter how athletic they are or aren’t. Bottom line, TX Tough is about having fun and making winners out of the kids at Children’s Medical Center.”

214-369-7772 SW Corner of Preston Rd. and Forest Ln. 11661 Preston Rd., Ste. 136 Dallas, TX 75230

Sept. 20 • 8 a.m. to noon – Fun Ride & Post-Ride Activities • Starting and ending at Victory Park Adults $30 • Students (ages 13 to 17) $15 • Kids (12 and under) $5 • Family Pack (2 Adults & 2 Kids) $70 • www.txtough.org

www.GraySchoolofMusic.com

18

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

Searching for a dance school... tips from a teacher

by Nacheska Gentry-Combs

Finding a dance school can be a

challenge for anyone. Is the school good? Will the teacher bring out

the best in my child? Will she be nurturing? Will my child make

friends and learn? Will this be a good experience?

In the course of my 32 years

as an instructor of dance, students

come and go‌some stay a month, a year and some for a decade or

more becoming more like family.

I hear stories from students that

“overstay� with a teacher or school because of fear to move on, or fear of hurting feelings, or worried

about losing friendship with other students or moms. The important thing in life and in art is to grow

and be nurtured. Once this is not happening then move on and be

generous with praise and love for where you have been.

To find an instructor, you

have the normal means‌friends,

phone book, or the Internet. Once you have identified a few that are

conveniently located for you then call or email and ask if you may

visit a class. Do not just watch, but

studio with no space to sit). I love

to have interested dancers take my

class to get the feel of my particular (or is that peculiar) personality and technique that is uniquely mine.

Does your child need a

nurturing teacher or one that

will constantly challenge? The

personality of the teacher of your child’s class needs to match your child’s. Younger ones do better

with energy and patience, older

ones with technique and discipline coated with constant challenge.

Perhaps you like the idea of

competitive dance or you prefer the method of dance as art. Whatever

you are looking for, do not be afraid to ask and listen as each school has

its own philosophy to grow a young performing artist.

One more thing to research

besides the obvious, “Do you like

this instructor, does your child like the instructor, can they relate to

your child, can you afford the fee,

the physical studio, space to dance, etc.� Make sure to ask if there are opportunities for your child to

see if your child can participate

perform if she wants to. Ask about

the “feel� of the class, studio, and

front if you think you would like

but better this than registering for

They can set you back and be more

studio will not let you participate

done this before. Dancing really is

so that they (and you) may grasp

recital fees and costume fees up

instructor. (Sometimes there is a fee

to participate in such an endeavor.

the unknown.) If the instructor/

than anticipated if you have not

or watch (lots have great peek-

a good base for strength, stamina,

a-boo windows), be wary, why? I

grace, and beauty.

but it is for the comfort of the paying

that you will ask the right questions

personally will not allow watching

students (and I have a small intimate

E SUMMh DOESNkT #OFFEE . #REAM o WHh AY CŠL YEf S 3T END WHEN SCHŠL BEGIN MMhTIME |EATSĂ™ SU NG HI fÂŒND WITH RE ES

9i`e^ `e k_`j X[ ]fi X =I<< B@;J :FE< X (%., MXcl\ n`k_ X gliZ_Xj\ f] X cXi^\ AXmX :_`cc fi X cXi^\ CXkk\# DXck fi J_Xb\% C`d`k ( Zflgfe g\i Zljkfd\i% Ef ZXj_ mXcl\% :flgfe mXc`[ k_il FZkfY\i )''0

Now go forth in the knowledge

and find a fun school for your child.

888 .:$0''&&/$3&". $0.

D : B @ E E <P s 8 C C < E ;FNEKFNE

(''0EK

K?< M@CC8>< 8K 8CC<E JK8:P .,

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

19â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

School... k c a B to

Now Enrolling for Fall Classes Private Lessons & Classes for ages 6 months to 100 years

Birthday Parties for Boys & Girls Ladies Night every third Thursday WALK-INS WELCOME

Drums, Voice, Violin, Guitar and Piano Musikgarten Classes: 6 months to 5 yrs

214-369-7772 SW Corner of Preston Rd. and Forest Ln. 11661 Preston Rd., Ste. 136 Dallas, TX 75230

308 Preston Royal Shopping Center Dallas, Texas 75230 Tel: (214) 363-2088

$2 Off Any Project

Bring in this ad for a FREE introductory lesson.

Minimum Purchase of $15

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 12/31/09

Exp. 09-30-09

rite Place to

Da

Pl a

Studio

o A[

3 Dance

Child Development Program

www.studio3dance.com 972-964-3838

$15 off Fall Registration Fee or $10 off Summer Registration

Now Enrolling!

â&#x20AC;˘ Recreational and Competitive Classes in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Modern, Musical Theater, Drill Team Prep, Leaps and Turns, and ZUMBA â&#x20AC;˘ Programs for ages 2 ½ & up

2220 Coit Road Suite 440 â&#x20AC;˘ Plano, TX 75075

20 â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

C

ki _Y

Ij kZ _e

All Saints Little Saints 18 months to 4 years Low classroom ratios Library Musikgarten Program Daily parent/teacher communication All Saints Catholic Church 5231 Meadowcreek Dr. Dallas, TX 75248 â&#x20AC;˘ 972-778-0318 allsaintsdallas.org

NOW ENROLLING Fall Classes Begin Aug. 17

www.smashingtimes.com

j[ e D

e nc

n

www.GraySchoolofMusic.com

avo sF â&#x20AC;&#x2122; o

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

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

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

/PEN (OUSE 3AT 3EPT

P M P M &REE $EMO 4EACHING 2360 REQUESTED

s 0IANO ,ESSONS FROM AGES AND UP s &LUTE ,ESSONS FROM AGES AND UP s 0RIVATE )NSTRUCTION s 3MALL 'ROUP #LASSES

*,/#)()#'(&&

7 0ARKER 2D B 0LANO 48

greatc las se&sactivities!!

9gVbV 9ZkZadeh @^Yh Whether destined for Broadway or the boardroom, Drama Kids builds conďŹ dence, speaking skills, and acting skills in young people and teenagers, ages 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;17. Our programs are fast paced and fun!

Ongoing Enrollment! Multiple Locations!

N.E. Dallas/Rockwall 972.772.3233 www.dramakids.com/tx3 Collin County 214.592.4066 www.dramakids.com/tx5

;gZZ

Trial Class For Your Child With this coupon, not valid with any other offers or prior purchases.

New students only. Please present this ad at time of registration. Offer expires 12-31-09.

Painting, Sculpture, Clay, Oh My! Allow Your Child To Experience the Wide World of Art at

Bigger, Better Place to Bounce

The Artist Within! â&#x20AC;˘ We specialize in instruction for children, adults and special needs students. â&#x20AC;˘ Birthday Parties for ages 5 to 14 â&#x20AC;˘ Now enrolling for Fall Classes!

972-596-6077

The Artist Within www.aristwithin.com

2001 Coit Rd., Ste. 206, Plano N.W. Corner of Park & Coit Sarah, with her â&#x20AC;&#x153;Da Vinciâ&#x20AC;? Barbie, just one of the many unique projects created by the students at The Artist Within.

Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Night Out

www.thejumptown.com

Wacky Wed. night specials

Join the Bouncer Birthday Club Now offering Private Parties

972-867-JUMP(5867) 8 UI 4U t 1MBOP 59 $2.00 OFF Open Jump Special Offer $25.00 OFF Valid for children ages 2+ only.

Must present coupon, only good for one use.

Not valid with other offers or discounts.

Town & Private Party Package Reservation $50 non-refundable deposit required for all reservations

Gotta Dance!

Home of the Plano Metropolitan Ballet

K^`blm^k _hk ?Zee Ghp

Aqua - Fit Swim School & Wellness Center

972-578-7946

â&#x20AC;˘Year Round Swimming Lessons & Swim Team Skill Training â&#x20AC;˘ After-School Swim Program Ik^;Zee^m(MZi% ;Zee^m% MZi% CZss

20+&0/2&))*0 ppp'`hmmZ]Zg\^ieZgh'\hf 3131 Custer Rd. Suite #195 r Plano, Texas 75075

â&#x20AC;˘Adaptive Water Angels & Developmental Yoga â&#x20AC;˘Discount for Siblings

www.aquafitplano.com

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

21â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

c r ! e ! a t e n ! ! r a le ✮★✮ ✮★ A N CE✮ ✮ ✮ D ✮ ★ ★ at Academy of Dance Arts in Allen!

Home of the Dallas Repertoire Ballet Located at Central Expressway & Bethany in Allen

Call now to Register 972-727-1455 RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! “Top 50 Studios in the United States” Dance Spirit Competition and Convention Yearbook Featured Cover Story (April, 2005) Dance Teacher Magazine

www.danceada.com

Explore World Languages: Children, Teens & Adults VË Áj W Ë VË.¬? Ä Ë VË . Ë VË jÄjË VË ?¬? jÄjË VË+ ÁÍÖ~ÖjÄjË VËË Á Ö¬Ë ÁË +Á Ü?ÍjË ?ÄÄjÄË VËË ÄW ÜjÁË8 Á aË Ö ÍÖÁjÄ

Register online today! www.riserockwall.com 972-772-9061

Fall Session Begins September 8, 2009.

6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230

What’s NEW at the RISE?

Call to enroll today!

972.991.6379

languages@dallasinternationalschool.org

www.dallasinternationalschool.org

Register for Fall Sports on MySAM today! Visit us online for upcoming deadlines and events.

Recreational & Competitive Leagues for Kids and adults

Mention this ad & receive a $25 discount Good on any team fee or field rental. Coupon code RISE/NTK001

Nobody Teaches Math Like We Do! CAUTION: YOUR CHILD MAY BECOME ADDICTED TO MATH!

After School and Enrichment Guide

Mathnasium achieves outstanding results in as little as a few months for as little as $10 per hour. Kids end up actually liking math!

Want to advertise?

Mathnasium: Teaching math in a way that makes sense to kids.

(And our prices make sense to parents!) $99 of

Plano: 214-336-7648

Frisco: 469-362-7300

www.Mathnasium.com/Plano www.Mathnasium.com/Frisco

with this ad !*

f *New members only; not combinable.

3115 W. Parker Rd #560, Plano, TX 75023 8811 Teel Parkway #130, Frisco, TX 75034

22

Boost your FALL Enrollment!!

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

Call 972-516-9070 today!

! ! e c n e i r e p ex

North Texas Kids loves Halloween!

Cover Art Contest for our October issue!

Artwork will be displayed at the North Texas Kids Family Expo on Halloween at the Plano Centre (see ad on back cover for details.)

We need your spookiest creations.

Winner will receive $50 and get their artwork on the October cover of North Texas Kids.

Deadline is Sept. 10. Please email a digital photo of your child’s artwork to info@northtexaskids.com Questions? Call 972-516-9070 www.northtexaskids.com

Swing into Fall Classes!

SEPTEMBER 13TH!!

Newest gymnastics club in North Texas with a brand new 25,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility for all levels!

FREE

Enrollment Fee with this ad ($25 value)

Classes for all ages, Open Gyms, Birthday Parties, Competitive Team

972-801-9910

Conveniently located near I75 and 190

EliteChampionGym.com North Texas Kids • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

23

Great job kids!!

We get sooooo much wonderful art for our covers... we wanted to share some more with you!

Sriya

Ally, 7

Davis, 10

Anthony, 6 Billy, 7 Saniya, 5 Nicholas, 8

Nicole, 8

Gabrielle, 7

Ally, 9

Kenadi, 12

Stephanie, 6

Shelby

Irma, 13

Uche, 10 24

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

Tyler, 5

Nickole, 12

By Adina Rich Many times parents’ focus

today is on pure academics. We

want to be sure that our children

are prepared to face the challenges that TAKS and even No Child Left

an assignment, where the directions

children with

make it a unique and beautiful one-

ADHD are

are the same for everyone, and of-a kind special creation.

Problem solvers are created in

Behind (NCLB) present. However,

the arts curriculum. They learn how

quest for the perfect curriculum,

mediums, see things out of the box,

we really need to realize, in our

that the arts challenge children in

a completely different, yet related, way. Seem like a paradox? I can

explain. When children are exposed to a creative arts program, they are allowed to do things in a way that the general education curriculum alone cannot provide.

Many times the general

education curriculum is

programmed. There is a certain

amount of ground that needs to be covered, a certain way that things need to be done. Even

teachers, many times, are limited

to manipulate objects in different and dream and imagine worlds filled with both wonderful and

magical things. These skills are very valuable skills that children need to develop in today’s job market.

Field trips to museums permit

children to see how art is applied

in real-life as well as how creations move from the imagination to

completion. They show children

that art is used in science, where

paleontologists artfully unearth and preserve dinosaur bones, to music,

seeing Mozart’s compositions come

autism and

extremely gifted

artists. Expression through the

creative arts allows children to have

through the dramatic arts. These

They can decide what colors to

child can identify with High School

to add, whether the creation is to

break out of his defined role as the

changing the radio station can

afraid to take a stand will have no

to learn about different musical

peer pressure.

like Imagination Celebration and

of the creative arts, isn’t it time we

power and control over the creation.

children become risk takers. Every

use, how much embellishment

Musical’s Troy Bolton’s desire to

be traditional or modern. Even

basketball jock. A child who is not

allow children the opportunity

problem standing up to bullies or

styles, periods, or genres. Programs Destination Imagination value

children’s contributions to the arts.

Confident decision makers are also to be valued in today’s society.

Art can be a way for children

to life.

to deal with difficult feelings.

the material must be presented.

allow children who have not

mediums can express more than

the chance to create something that

academics the opportunity to

by what they must teach and how However, the arts allow children

is their own. They are able to take

Further, creative arts programs

experienced success with traditional succeed at something. Many

Different color choices, designs, and just the verbal or written word.

Creative Arts also allow children to learn about different perspectives

Now that you know the value

help our kids to become art-smart?

Adina Rich is the owner and director of Rich Educational Consulting, LLC. Adina spent many years working for local school districts in both general and special education.

Rich Educational Consulting offers a wide array of services including school advocacy, learning or behavior assessments, and parent and educator inservice trainings. For more information, call 972-816-3100, or visit or website richeducationalconsulting.com for a complete list of services and offerings.

The NTK radio show is moving!

Watch our website for the upcoming schedule or sign-up for our enewsletter and have the schedule delivered right to you every week!

Same Great Guests & Great Parenting Tips,

Same Time Every Day, New Location.

You Can Now Find Us at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/ntk at 2pm Monday to Friday.

As always, you can listen in anytime you want by downloading the shows to your computer or mp3 player.

We will be adding live shows soon, so watch for updates in our e-newsletter, on Facebook and Twitter.

Stay Up-to-Date! Follow us: Dr. Minette Riordan and North Texas Kids would like to thank The Word 100.7fm for helping her to launch her radio show over the past few months. It was a great experience and we are very grateful for the opportunity they gave us!

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

25

Sports Scoop

“Do Work” - How To Get Ready For Football In Texas

by Mike Kravik Towards the end of every summer, thousands of teenagers across Texas strap on their helmets and begin the arduous process of getting ready for their season.

No other month is equally loved and loathed by football players as August because while the promise of a new season is about to begin, there is also a price to be paid. "Do work" is a catch phrase with players this year and it's the simplest way to describe getting ready for a season when it's August and you play or coach football in Texas.

August serves as the toll booth to the rest of the season because there are no games and the only opponents are teammates, long practices and the scorching heat.

It's during this time that players get both their minds and bodies ready for the upcoming season.

How does that young defensive back play with intensity and intelligence yet relax enough to hand over what he is doing to his natural ability? How does the wide receiver develop timing with his quarterback yet elude cornerbacks, linebackers and the hard-hitting safety looking to bury him as he goes across the middle on 3rd down and 6? How does a coach develop the positive chemistry that every successful team possesses?

Players get there with reps and a confidence built in a weightroom during the off-season that is validated in August. Coaches know that players who get through tough times together will create a bond that will help them when the season starts. Nobody knows exactly when moments of adversity are going to arrive in a season yet those moments are coming. August is the

26

first test of adversity the players and coaches will face together.

Johnny Ringo is about to enter his 6th season as the Head Football Coach at Plano East High School.

Ringo has coached at some level of football for the last 25 years and has witnessed massive change in both the game and the approach to getting players ready, physically and mentally for a season.

It's August 11, the second day high school teams are allowed to practice and at 10:30am, Plano East is about to have their second practice of the day. Two-a-day workouts in football have stood the test of time but changes to the regimen have been implemented.

Ringo says "One of the biggest differences is simple. Our players can get water any time they want.

Everybody is also much more conscientious of their diet."

Ringo also uses a little psychology in dealing with the heat.

"We don't allow anybody – players, coaches, trainers – to say 'it's hot'.

We say it's very tropical and let me tell you, some days it gets very tropical out here."

Getting players acclimated to the weather by training and practicing in the heat is one of the primary goals every coach looks to achieve in August. When it comes to football players and weather, coaches know that failing to prepare is preparing to fail. That the players need to be ready for hot temperatures in August is a given but there are also times when warm weather will extend past September and into October.

The old approach to conditioning was to have players run sprints or long distances at the

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

end of a practice. Ringo has his team run what are called "gassers" half-way through practice and not at the end. A gasser consists of running a full sprint from one sideline to the other and it takes less than 7 seconds. The theory being that the players need to exert themselves throughout the game and not just at the end of games.

Sprint drills during practices will make players stronger in the fourth quarter. Assistant coaches firmly remind the players during the sprints, "This is where you win games, right here, right now, by being in better shape than your opponents."

Ringo explains, "You can have the kids run long distances to see what kind of general shape they're in but we're not training these kids to run marathons. This is a different kind of training. We need these players to go full speed for 5 to 7 second bursts several times throughout a game."

The method by which coaches handle their players has also changed in the last 25 years.

Somewhere along the way the best coaches began to figure out how to get the most respect from their players: not through fear and intimidation but by treating those players with respect. Players still want coaches who are tough and fair but they will also respect and respond to blunt honesty.

During one of the passing drills an East receiver spins a defensive back and suddenly finds himself wide open but isn't able to catch the pass because he didn't complete the route. At that exact moment an East assistant coach makes sure everybody on the field and the

surrounding neighborhood hears what he has to say. "You just ran the sexiest route all day but you didn't finish! Finish your route!!!"

The booming voice wasn't meant to embarrass or humiliate the player and was instead a teaching moment. The coach acknowledged the great route but pointed out exactly why the play was unsuccessful. Getting barked at in August is worth it if you're going to catch that pass on a Friday night in September.

At a school the size of Plano East good athletes are plentiful.

The kids push each other because putting in all this work to sit the bench on Friday nights is no fun.

On a high school team there are several subsets of competition that exist and to think otherwise would be naïve. There is also a rivalry that goes on between offense and defense with lots of good natured but "I'm-not-reallyteasing" woofing when one player beats another on the field. Yet at the end of practice everybody comes together because they all want the same thing – wins on Friday nights.

Ringo believes this team can walk between the lines of having fun and getting their work in without stumbling. As this practice closes and another foundation piece to the 2009 season is put into place Ringo tells his players "This is a tough sport played by great athletes and the best way I know to get through it is to have some fun along the way."

Sports Scoop

LABOR DAY WORD SEARCH V B H A Z K P L A B O R W Q S

M P X Y S R B Y I W V L L A F

P Q U T K O H S A L A R Y L P

Z Z Q P P W B V U F V R C A A

W C A M D E S Z T C Z N O T R

P I C O M E R L G I Y O O F A

P P M C C K L S P N A V K H D

A Z T C L E M T A C U K O Q E

E U Y U Y N D Z W I T D U B Z

WORK PARADE AUTUMN OCCUPATION

E W U P V D P Y E P U T T J K

B E L A R V H S A S M V B F X

Q G T T W M T R D D N A L Z V

SALARY LABOR PICNIC COOKOUT

H O L I D A Y V F C N U N W S

E E M O D S B G T L C O G Z G

A F K N W P H K A Q R C M W H

HOLIDAY FALL WEEKEND MONDAY

Ages 18 mos to 6 yrs • Child Physical Development Programs • 9:1 St udent t o Inst ruct or Rat io • All Regist ered Kids Engage in Our Games • Over 8 0 Fun Games & Act ivit ies • St ruct ured Curriculum • Develops: Soccer Skills, Social Behavior & Mot or Skills

P arty T ots 214-579-0349

• 1 8 Indoor Facilit ies

E. of Dallas N. Tollway 214-405-0360

West of 360 972-974-6257

W. of Dallas N. Tollway 469-834-8450

Register online at www.soccertotsdallas.com

BASEBALL Ages 2 to 6 yrs

• 6 :1 St udent t o Inst ruct or Rat io • St ruct ured Curriculum • Develops Baseball Skills, Social Behavior & Mot or Skills

Kids Love It! 972-978-8530 Register online at www.lilsluggersdallas.com

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

27

Full-Wave Breathing Offers Immune Boost As Asthma Increases

by Dr. Caron B Goode

We’re Slowly Suffocating Pollution is causing an increase in respiratory illnesses as much as

First Graders Can Do It The International Breath Institute, based in Fort Worth, retrains poor

50% in some areas and asthma has grown into an epidemic in the United

breathing habits in a three-step breathing exercise called Full-Wave Breathing.

affects 16.2 million adults and 6.7 million children. Now, this most common

the lungs, relieving bronchitis, improving circulation, oxygenating the blood

States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that asthma

chronic childhood disease in the country affects 1 in every 10 children, and is correlated with allergies.

Common air pollutants slow children’s lung growth according to

results of a comprehensive, ten-year study from the University of Southern

California-led Children’s Health Study. When the quality of our air is poor, we tend to breathe shallower, and we absorb more toxins.

The resulting rapid or shallow breathing leads to poor oxygen supply,

respiratory disease and fatigue. Poor breathing also robs us of energy and

mental alertness. Parents may resort to the strongest medications to help their

children breathe better and remain active. On the other hand, many parents are uneasy with the constant intake of medication and look for alternative ways to reduce their children's need for bronchodilators and steroid-based drugs.

The Oxygen Principle The environmental facts speak clearly for the need and

urgency to take action and improve our breathing capacity.

The environment continues to decline. To enjoy health, we must improve our breathing capacity and understand that a shallow breath increases stress and anxiety. A deeper

breath brings relaxation and the ability to better manage asthma episodes.

The first step in the breathing process is

inhaling. After oxygen enters the lungs, it is picked up by hemoglobin in the blood

Full-Wave breathing fights the toxins that pollute our bodies by strengthening and minimizing the reoccurrence of respiratory ailments.

Research from the International Breath Institute shows that first grade

children who sat for long periods of time in their seats, breathed shallower

and shallower as the day progressed. Their postures slumped and their eyes glazed. Learning cannot take place under such conditions. But, when their

teacher led them through deep breathing exercises for ten minutes each day

after lunch, something amazing happened. They felt better! They learned and

concentrated more easily. They were relaxed and could shift attention without

difficulty after recess. The first graders reminded each other to use their breath before each assignment, and they practiced breathing while walking in the hallway, which helped them not chatter and disturb others.1

Emotional Links to Allergies and Asthma Emotional reactions affect our breathing. Fear accelerates breathing.

Anger pumps our breathing like an awakening volcano. Sadness and grief

inhibit breathing. Well-known asthma triggers are exercise, emotional stress or emotional excitement.

Breathing is the only body function that we do involuntarily, and that we

can voluntarily work with. We can influence our autonomic nervous systems

and positively influence other systems in the body like circulation, respiration and digestion.

A Single Foundational Exercise

and sent to all the cells. Once in the cells,

oxidation, the method of combining the

nutrients from food with oxygen, creates

energy. Oxygen maintains cells and keeps them clean and healthy. At the same time,

oxygen helps remove waste from the body and

reduces inflammation. Breathing that is more effective increases oxygen in the body.

How people breathe affects their attitudes. Deep breathers are more

relaxed and balanced. Shallow breathers are more anxious and impulsive.

Full-Wave Breathing is an easy and successful tool to help children develop better resilience and emotional strength!

You can't breathe for your children, but you can instill healthy breathing

practices that will give them that extra edge in fighting illness every day. FullWave Breathing is the way.

Children are especially at risk for respiration difficulties

Dr. Caron Goode, cofounder of the International Breath Institute, offers free

their bodies must be capable of using that oxygen efficiently.

learn and completely FREE to use! Watch this week's Energize You Now video,

because their growing bodies require more oxygen, and

Unless the muscles responsible for respiration are exercised

through deep breathing techniques, the rib cage and

surrounding tissues get stiff, which makes inhalation more difficult. Less

suppleness and weak muscles leave stale air in the tissues of the lungs and prevent fresh oxygen from reaching the blood stream. This stunts growth,

breathing resources for parents and children. Full-Wave Breathing is easy to “Breath Your Way to Longer Life,” part of our informative 28 part FREE Full

Wave Breathing Experience video series http://www.energizeyounow.com. If you

would like hands on experience to learn this exceptional, easy exercise, join us on September 12, 2009 at the DFW Marriott, for the Breathe & Grow Rich Seminar.

depresses the immune system and contributes to disease. By teaching children to breathe fully and deeply, you can positively impact their health for a lifetime.

28

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

Goode, Caron, Ed.D. Research article from the International Breath Institute posted at www.InternationalBreathInstitute.com 1

North Texas Kids Use

Spy Skills to Track Shady Characters

A lot has been happening since The Science of Spying opened last spring at the Museum of Nature & Science in Fair Park. This traveling exhibit, offering spy-themed fun for junior spies, has inspired three North Texas kids to learn more about detective work. We check in with Emma SpyKid and Agent K for an update:

Q. What have you been up to lately on your free Spy Adventure?

Emma:

A lot! My brother, Josh, his best friend, Juan, and I are on the trail of some men we think are up to something fishy. We have been able to keep watch on them thanks to what we have discovered at The Science of Spying exhibit. We learned about cracking a safe, detecting lies, and breaking a code, and about powers of observation. For example, we planted a radio frequency identification device (RFID) on their car bumper to tail one of them. It’s a tiny chip that sends a wireless signal that can be tracked.

Q. Any other spy adventures?

Emma:

Plenty! We first saw the men while we were at NorthPark Center looking for clues in the free Spy Adventure. They caught our attention because they acted

really weird. When they showed up at the Museum of Nature & Science, we were there too (thanks to the RFID chip on their car). In a trash bin we found a

flyer the men left behind with a strange code on it. I figured out what kind of code it is, and Josh, Juan and I together deciphered the message. Now all we have to do is convince the grown-ups that we’re onto something important. They think we’re just seeing spies because of The Science of Spying exhibit. But there really is something going on!

Q. Is there still time for other North Texas kids to join in?

Emma:

Agent K:

Yes. The Science of Spying exhibit is open through Jan. 4, 2010. Every month until December, we write a new story about what we are doing and it appears in the neighborsgo supplement to the Dallas Morning News. I am also still on Facebook and Twitter sharing spy facts, games and puzzles, as well as highlights from my sleuthing with Josh and Juan.

While the clue hunt finished at the end of August, kids can keep cracking codes online. Plus Emma is posting fun sites and activities for junior spies in her Facebook and Twitter postings.

Q. How has The Science of Spying Spy Adventure worked as a recruitment tool?

Agent K:

Very well. The codes and puzzles have helped me identify many young spies as possible recruits for my spy school. North Texas kids are very smart!

Q. What do you think of Emma, Josh, and Juan’s spying activities?

Agent K:

They would be outstanding students at my spy school and I might make a special effort to recruit them. Remember, all kids who enter the “exhibition” are

recruited, trained and tested. It may be that Emma, Josh, and Juan have crossed paths with the shadowy forces of OSTEK. To find out more about the men they are tracking, they will need all of their math, science, communications, observation and code-cracking skills. In spying, no stone is unturned to find the truth!

Emma: Agent K:

There are spy-themed birthday parties and murder mystery dinners for adults. The stories go on -- and of course the exhibit!

For adults and older kids there is a lecture series with real spies and counter-spies. The famous Enigma machine will be at the first event and you will get a chance to actually try it out! Germany used Enigma to send coded messages during World War II, but the Allies broke the code and that helped win the war.

The Enigma machine will be in the museum’s Science Building on Sept. 17 starting at 5:30 p.m.

Agent K:

Emma:

Admission is free for members, plus there are discounts on birthday parties for members. Since this is an extra charge ticket, an MNS membership is the way to go for most families.

All of the Spy Adventure stories plus some fun online spy games can be found at the special The Science of Spying website: www.natureandscience.org/spying.

Q. What other covert activities are going on at the museum as summer turns to fall?

Q. What else do parents need to know about The Science of Spying?

Alexandria’s Book Review I’ll leave it to you to find

Ramona the Pest

out if Ramona makes it through

A Review by Alexandria Battle

kindergarten, along with discovering

By Beverly Cleary 208 pages • Ages 8-11 • HarperCollins Publishers (Feb, 1992) Beverly Cleary, the author

of some of the greatest books for

children in my opinion, grew up in

a town that had no library until she

and her family took the initiative to begin one by sending in books. She

was reading at a young age, and even became a librarian in later years after

Street are stories that I grew up

way as she goes along. And just as

the average children’s books, but I

to be an interesting experience for

enjoying. They’re a little longer than suggest either reading a book like

Ramona the Pest alone, as a challenge, or reading it with a parent who will enjoy the book as much as you.

In this adventure, Ramona is as

graduating from college. After all

excited as a young girl can possibly

some of the library children asked her

waiting, she is allowed to go to

that time, it is a pleasant surprise that about the books “about kids like us”

and she gave them, and all of us, the first book of many good ones.

Beverly Cleary’s books about

Ramona and her antics on Klickitat

be. At last, after five years of endlessly kindergarten! Ramona can’t wait

to catch up to her big sister Beezus

(also known as Beatrice) and be just as smart as she is—even if she has

to make some noisy fusses to get her

Ramona hopes, kindergarten proves

some of the other mishaps she causes.

I recommend Ramona the Brave,

Ramona Forever, Ramona’s World,

and my all-time favorite, Beezus and Ramona.

her—her teacher offers her a “present” on her very first day, they sing an

interesting “dawnzer lee light” song, and the class learns to write their

own names in print. But bad things

happen, too—Ramona finds it hard to keep her eyes on her own seat work, stay quiet during nap time, and stop pulling the pretty golden curls of

Susan, another kindergartener; and it

is this last recurring flaw that gets her in trouble with the teacher she loves so much, pretty Miss Binney.

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

29

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!

Are your kids bored?

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

• • • •

Speech Therapy Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Case Management

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

We keep kids entertained.

Scraptions by Christy

Tomorrow can be a better day if you start by planting seeds...

• Be the parent you want to be • Help your child find happiness in each day

“Scrapbooking your way to creative memories.”

• Create a peaceful environment at home

10% off Custom Scrapbook Design Call Now for Details!

~

Jennifer Bradt, MS, LPC, NCC The Gathering Place 6881 Pecan Street Frisco, TX 75034 214-471-2701 plantingseedscc.com

Schedule an Adult or Kids’ Party or Class today and receive a free gift!

972-971-9408 www.scraptionsbychristy.com Plano Area Mothers of Multiples (PAMOM)

RESULTS THAT LAST A LIFETIME

SERVICES INCLUDE: In-home Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy

WOULD YOU LIKE TO:

CONTACT US TODAY

to find out how we can help you!

T 214.566.2687 E Contact@DynamicTherapy.net

Insurance & Medicaid accepted NOW HIRING THERAPISTS

www.DynamicTherapy.net

• Spend more time with your family?

• Build a great income?

• Get great health results?

• Have the freedom to do what you want?

• View website for Kids’ stories

Call Marcella now! 214-533-7876 www.wealthfromnutrition.com Exceptional vitamins for children & adults!

Baby and children’s gently used clothing, toys, books and gear.

re

at Deal

s!

G

Semi-Annual Sale

Come early for the best selection!

Sat., Oct. 3rd, 2009 8:00am - Noon at Southfork Hotel

Pet Hospital • Pet Hotel • Grooming

Kids’ Activity Area $20 off 1st Exam/Consult New clients only Expires September 30, 2009

1600 N Central Expressway North of 15th St. exit in Plano

972-307-7400 2525 E Hebron Pkwy. Carrollton, TX

www.pamom.org

allcreaturesonline.com

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

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

Black and white...

Or color.

Advertise your company in the NTK Family Resourcs Guide and let us help your business

GROW! Hey Kids.... Here is a fun poem to sing to your Grandparents on Grandparents Day: Spetember 13th

Sing

tune o it to the

f “ Take

To The me Out

Ballgam

e”

Let’ go see our Grandparents Take us there for awhile.

Mommy and Daddy both need a break, We’ll play games and we’ll stay up real late!

Oh, we’d like to thank our Grandparents For all the things that they do.

So it’s time to say...

“You are the BEST and that WE... LOVE... YOU”..... ! www.grandparents-day.123holiday.net

Focus on our Advertisers...

Angels of Care Pediatric Home Health “Special Care for Your Special Child” Angels of Care was established in 2000 and has grown tremendously over the years to employ over 400 nurses, therapists, attendants, and specialists. They service over 40 counties in Texas. Angels of Care has long been involved in community events and charities. This agency is dedicated to caring for and helping the families of special needs children and young adults in need.

Angels of Care started out only providing nursing care but as further client needs were realized, the company expanded its realm of service to include all of the following: Private Duty Nursing, Skilled Nursing Visits, Attendant Care, Client Direct Services, Case Management, and Therapy (PT, OT, & ST) to children and young adults, Angels of Care Medical Equipment & Supplies offers specialists in Pediatric DME, Rehab & Mobility, and Respiratory Equipment and Supplies, Angels of Care Medication Delivery Service is for all ages, providing a free delivery of medication directly to the client’s home.

Angels of Care is a proud supporter of AOC Foundation. AOC Foundation is a non-profit foundation geared toward helping special needs children and their families have a better quality of life whether it is help with utilities, medical needs, home improvements, etc… Angels of Care strives to do what is best for the patients and their families. That is why they are constantly expanding their company to better meet the needs of their clients. Angels of Care Pediatric Home Health seeks to inform the public of the many free programs available to special needs children and young adults. They are providers for CCP which covers private duty nursing for special needs children under the age of 21; MDCP a program that provides to special needs children under 21 years covering private duty nursing, attendant care, and covers the cost of medical equipment and home modifications; CBA a program that provides private duty nursing, therapy, attendant care, and home modifications for special needs adults ages 21 and up; PCS is a newer program that provides attendant care to children under 21 years with diagnoses that affect their ability to perform their ADL’s such as Autism, Down Syndrome, etc…; CPW that provides Case Management for special needs children, pregnant women, and their families; and Client Direct Service which allows the parents to be the employer and

manage their child’s staffing of nurses or attendants.

There are many more programs available at no cost to you providing many different services to improve the quality of life for special needs children. If you or someone you know could benefit from one or more of these available programs, please call Angels of Care today for a free consultation. (903) 546-6100 or www.angelsofcare.com.

Family eGuide Kids bored? Need (free/cheap) ideas?

Whether you’re looking for a unique, affordable outing with your kids, or info about the usual storytime schedules and rec center offerings, Family eGuide is THE resource for you! This FREE weekly online newsletter and website focuses on family activities in Flower Mound, Lewisville, Highland Village and the surrounding communities.

They search over 150 websites, newspapers, and other publications and combine all of the family-friendly activities into one easy-to-access resource. All of the information is available through both their online calendar and weekly newsletters, delivered via email each Wednesday.

Most of the activities Family eGuide includes are free or cheap. “We understand what it’s like to live on a budget,” says owner and parent, Valerie Preston. “There are so many affordable activities in our community, we rarely find the need to drive far or spend much to have fun with the kids.”

Family eGuide includes information about events and activities at malls, movie theaters, bookstores, community theaters, sports venues, local businesses, and more.

Their website has many pages devoted to favorite parks, aquatic centers, summer camps and area restaurants. Don’t miss their Dining Deals guide... a list of over 30 area restaurants that offer Kids-Eat-Free and other deals for families.

Educational opportunities for kids and adults are also available... everything from sibling classes for kids, to babysitting and lifeguard training, and parenting classes for adults.

Check them out at www.familyeguide.com. Visit often, they update daily!

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

31

Looking for a Speaker for Your Next Meeting?

Here are a just a few of the topics our speakers cover...

Parenting l Motivaton l Stress Management Relationships l Self-Defense

The Speaker Coop is your online resource for experienced, entertaining, and informative speakers for your next event.

Search our website by topic or speaker.

Visit www.speakercoop.com today!

32

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

Calendar of Events

sponsored by...

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

September 1 Tuesday Dallas The interactive Science of Spying exhibit is part James Bond, part Jack Bauer and part ‘Lie to Me.’ Through Jan. 4, 2010. Museum of Nature & Science, Science Building 1318 S. 2nd Ave. (in Fair Park) www.natureandscience.org

McKinney Heard Homeschool/Preschool Program Registration: Now is the time to encourage your child’s love of nature! This fall, preschool and homeschool children will have the opportunity explore all that the Sanctuary has to offer. Classes run from 9/8/09 to 12/10/09. www.heardmuseum.org

Dallas Organic in the City - 6:00 PM: An urban environmental education and entertainment series at Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park. To register, call (214) 428-7476 ext. 23 or visit www. texasdiscoverygardens.org.First Tuesday of the month. Cost: $10 per person; $8 for members

2 Wednesday Dallas Dallas Public Library Children’s Activity Series 10:30 AM: This fun, hands-on activity program for pre-schoolers takes place in NorthCourt between Nordstrom and Macy’s at 10:30 am. www.northparkcenter.com

Plano Kids in the Garden - 3:30 PM: 2nd through 4th graders will experience the world through an exciting hands-in-the garden program. Meets weekly at the Plano Community Gardens, 4030 W. Plano Parkway. Registration required. www.livegreeninplano.com

3 Thursday Lewisville Barnes & Noble story-time - 10:00 AM: Thursdays at 10 am. Please join us for story-time each week with a new featured story. Call 972-315-7966 or visit the 2325 South Stemmons Frwy Lewisville 75067 location for weekly titles.

Bring your family and friends each week.

Frisco Texas Business Women of Frisco Leadership program - 6:30 PM: Part 1 of Leadership with Nina Barr. Frisco Embassy Suites, 7600 John Q. Hammons at Cypress Grill Garden Room. Reservations are required. Please email Nicole Arnold at nbarnold@interiorxp.com or call 214-616-3340 to make a reservation or for more information.

5 Saturday Bedford Bedford Blues and BBQ Labor Day Festival: www.bedfordbluesbbq.com/

Frisco Centennial Medical hosts First Saturday Q&A - 12:00 PM: The first Saturday of every month, professionals from Centennial Medical Center will present a free question and answer session at Stonebriar Centre. All Q&As are at no charge and will be held on the lower level in the Dillard’s wing, near the Healthy Hometown Play Area. www.centennialmedicalcenter.com

Dallas SPCA Grief Counseling Group - 1:00 PM: The SPCA of Texas’ Pet Grief recovery program is designed to help those who are grieving the loss of a beloved companion animal. Free and open to the public. SPCA of Texas, 2400 Lone Star Drive, Dallas, conference room. www.spca.org (214) 742-SPCA

North Richland Hills Pictures & Popcorn - 1:30 PM: Want something the whole family can do that’s FREE? Come to the North Richland Hills Library each Saturday, from September until May, and watch a movie on the big screen while you enjoy free popcorn.

9015 Grand Ave. Call 817-427-6814 for more information.

Dallas Dallas Public Library Children’s Activity Series - 2:00 PM: This fun, hands-on activity program for elementary school age children takes place in NorthCourt between Nordstrom and Macy’s at 2:00 pm. www.northparkcenter.com

Allen Groovin@the Grove - 7:00 PM: Every Saturday night from 7-9 pm at the Village of Allen outside Coffee and Cream. Great local music groups. There is lawn seating and a kids play area. www.mycoffeencream.com

6 Sunday McKinney Arts on the lawn - 5:00 PM: A laid back event featuring local artists sponsored by Tucker Hill and the Mckinney Performing Arts Center. Bring a blanket and a picnic or food is available for purchase. Tucker Hill Amphitheater 7270 W. University Dr. www.tuckerhilltx.com

7 Monday Plano 2009 Blackland Sprint and Youth Triathlon: SPRINT TRI 8:45am, YOUTH TRI 7:00 am.

Oak Point Center, 6000 Jupiter Rd. Plano www.blacklandtri.com

4 Friday

8 Tuesday

Southlake

Lewisville

First Friday Women’s Event - 11:00 AM: Harkins Theatre, Southlake Town Center. Admission is free. Contact the Play Center at 817-310-0245 two days prior to the event to reserve your child’s place. firstfridaywomen.com

Western Day Festival: Find the cowboy in you at Lewisville’s annual Western Day festival in Old Town Lewisville. Admission: Free for Lewisville residents with proof of residency, free with ticket for non-Lewisville residents. For more information call 972.219.3401. www.visitlewisville.com

Grapevine Fireworks Over Lake Grapevine - 9:30 PM: Enjoy a 12 minute Fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. every Friday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day (May 22 - Sept 4) . Fireworks can be seen from any Lake Grapevine Park.

Plano Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano - 9:30 AM. Join us at our regular program meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. SMU-in-Legacy, 5228 Tennyson Parkway, Plano. Look for our signs!

(W. of Preston Road on the SE Corner of Tennyson & Democracy) www.newcomerfriends.org

Plano Special Needs Open Jump at Jump Town! 5:30 PM: Special Needs children and their siblings jump for $5 per child. Portion of the proceeds benefits the Plano Parks & Rec. Jump Town, 3045 W 15th Street 972-867-JUMP (5867) www.thejumptown.com/

9 Wednesday Fort Worth Just Between Friends Semi-Annual Sale: The largest Children’s and Maternity clothing, toys, and equipment consignment sales event in Texas. Will Rogers Memorial Center Exhibit Hall 3401 West Lancaster, Fort Worth www.jbfsale.com/fortworth

Rockwall Rockwall MOMS Club Open House - 10:00 AM: Come in and see what the MOMS Club is all about and meet other stay-at-home moms in Rockwall county.For more info email rockwallmomsclub@hotmail.com or call Meredith at 214-771-3538

11 Friday Frisco Car Seat Fitting Station - 12:30 PM: Centennial Medical Center Frisco, 1-877-228-3628. 2nd Friday of the month. Parents will be assisted with installation of the car seat and educated on proper securing of child.

Carrollton Starlight Adventure Club @ Bounce U - 6:00 PM: Crosspointe will be holding their Starlight adventure club at BounceU Carrollton from 6 to 9 - Free to public but must preregister at www.crosspointe.com Bounce U, 3050 N Josey Ln, #110, 972-939-5000, www.bounceu.com/ cities/carrollton.tx

Rowlett Movies On Main - 6:00 PM: Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnics and enjoy free movies under the stars on the lawn of the Library on Main Street. Movies begin at dusk. www.ci.rowlett.tx.us

12 Saturday All Family Campout on Lake Grapevine: All you are responsible for is your tent, camping supplies, and sleeping bags. Visit www.adventuredaycamps.com to reserve your spot today or call 972-741-9169 for more information.

Dallas Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium Grand Opening Weekend. Children’s crafts by the Junior League of Dallas and performances by local entertainers, butterfly balloon artist, will entertain families all weekend. Tickets: $4 adults, $3 age 60+, $2 children (age 3-11), Free (age 0 to 2) www.TexasDiscoveryGardens.org

Dallas Brazilian Capoeira for Kids: Dallas Capoeira is opening their doors to children ages 6 and up.

Saturday’s from 12:15-1:15. Call 469-877-7078 and ask for Dianna or e-mail us! www.capdallas.com

Richardson Great Fountain Plaza Festival: Civic Center/City Hall Fountain Plaza (411 W. Arapaho Rd.). Contact PARD Community Events Office Suzanne Etman 972-744-4584 www.cor.net

Dallas Neiman Marcus’ Annual Children’s Fashion Show: On Level One starting at 12:00 noon.

For more information, please call 214.363.8311. www.northparkcenter.com

Grand Prairie Fiesta Grand Prairie: The Cinco de Mayo celebration that was postponed in May has been moved to September for this year only. Parade, free entertainment, rides and more. City Hall Plaza 318 W. Main St. Information: 972-237-8100, www.GrandFunGP.com

Plano Heroes for Children 5K - 7:00 AM: This event is not only a fun event for families and athletes, but it is also a great chance for the families HFC serves to come out and celebrate or remember their loved ones. At Shops at Legacy. www.heroesforchildren.org

Dallas Kids Club Scavenger Hunt at MNS! - 9:00 AM: Kids Club members are invited to join us for an exclusive Kids Club-only morning scavenger hunt adventure and win a prize! This special event will take place in the Children’s Museum and will be open to Kids Club members. www. natureandscience.org

Plano LearningRx Mental Olympics Celebration - 1:00 PM: Come join Learning on Saturday, September 12th from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The event is free, and families will enjoy brain exercises, snow cones and snacks, and parents will gain practical information on how to make the -2010 school year successful. 5136 Village Creek Dr in Plano. www.learningrx.com/plano

Southlake Southlake Saturday Nite - 7:00 PM: Calling all 4th, 5th & 6th graders for a night of fun dancing to a live D.J., various inflatables & contests & 4 on 4 basketball. Durham Elementary/Intermediate School. www.cityofsouthlake.com

Plano Parent’s Night Out at Jump Town! - 7:00 PM: Join us for a HUGE pajama party loaded with activities, crafts, games, fun and JUMPING, of course. $20 per child includes pizza and drink per child from 7-11pm. Ages 3-15 (children must be potty trained). Jump Town, 3045 W 15th Street 972-867-JUMP (5867) www.thejumptown.com/

14 Monday Dallas MNS Little Explorers fall programs begin: Nurture your baby’s or young child’s constant quest for answers and stimulate his or her vivid imagination through Little Explorers. 6 months - 4 years. Museum of Nature and Science. www.natureandscience.org

16 Wednesday

Plano

Bedford

Plano Sports Authority Blood Drive & Sponsorship Fair: Bring your family & friends to donate needed blood & play some games. 6500 Preston Meadow, Plano 75024 www.psaplano.org

Chip and Children’s Medicaid - 2:00 PM: At the Bedford Public Library, we’ll tell you about CHIP/Children’s Medicaid and help you apply.

Bedford Public Library

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

33

18 Friday

McKinney

Dallas JUNIE B. JONES & A LITTLE MONKEY BUSINESS: The smash hit musical returns by popular demand to Dallas Children’s Theater.

Recommended for ages 5 years and older. Ticket prices range from $14-$25. Visit www.dct.org for performance times and to purchase tickets, or call 214-740-0051. www.dct.org

Plano EDS Credit Union Plano Balloon Festival: At Oak Point Park. Attendees will be entertained by the concerts and community acts, the Kids Fun Zone, and tantalizing food vendors. Fireworks on Saturday night. Parking, admission and details at www.planoballoonfest.org

19 Saturday Garland Wild West Cowboy Roundup: Western Heritage Festival in Historic Downtown Garland featuring authentic chuckwagon cooking,stagecoach rides,gun slingers,street vendors, 3 stages of performers and Lil Buckaroos Kids Corral 10am-7pm, Western Swing street dance 8-11pm www.garlandcowboyroundup.com

Euless FabEuless Trails of Treasure: Want a fun, free activity to do with your family with a chance to win FabEuless prizes? To celebrate the National Week in Play, the City of Euless will hold the FabEuless Trails of Treasure outdoor scavenger hunt. Visit euless.org/playday or call the Recreation Center at 817-685-1666 for more details.

Lewisville Race for the Children - 8:00 AM: 1 Mile Fun Run & 5K Race. Benefits Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and the Lewisville Education Foundation. City Hall, 151 W Church St, Lewisville.

Addison Oktoberfest 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run: Running for the Children - 8:00 AM: Raise money to support Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer’s vision of a day when all children are living cancer free. Addison Circle Park, 4790 Addison Circle Drive. www.oktoberfest5k.com

McKinney Ropes Course Open to the Public Days - 9:00 AM: Get together with your family and friends to experience a 110-foot rock climb, 500-foot zip line and a team power pole at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. www.heardmuseum.org

Dr Pepper StarCenter McKinney at Craig Ranch Ribbon Cutting, Free Public Skating, Skate with the Stars Bear and try a free introductory skating lesson. All attendees will be given 2 FREE tickets to a Dallas Stars Pre Season game! Giant inflatables, slap shot cage, face painter, balloon artist. 6993 Stars Avenue McKinney

Carrollton Firefighter Benefit Festival - 3:00 PM: Talk to the firefighters and their families, check out a fire engine up close and enjoy the fun of a full afternoon! Cost: A donation of any kind is all that is required to attend. *Parking is free. Standridge Stadium 1330 W. Valwood Parkway Carrollton

Southlake Fall Family Campout - 4:00 PM: A campout for the entire family! There will be fishing, marshmallow roasting, camp fire stories & the great outdoors. Cost is $12 per person (ages 3 and up). Bob Jones Park Day Camp Area. www.cityofsouthlake.com

21 Monday Allen 4th Annual ACO Golf Classic: Golf Tournament benefitting Allen Community Outreach.

Heritage Ranch Golf & Country Club 465 Scenic Ranch Circle Fairview. Cost: $100/golfer or $350/foursome. www.acocares.org

23 Wednesday Garland Workshop for social skills: ‘Thinking about You, Thinking about me’. www.socialthinking.com.

Special Events Center in Garland 4999 Naaman Forest Blvd, 75040. For registration contact nagla_alvin@tx.rr.com

24 Thursday Dallas Mary Poppins: The original Broadway stars Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee are coming to Dallas for one of the national tours first stops. Music Hall at Fair Park. www.liveatthemusichall.com/

25 Friday Mansfield Mansfield Pecan Festival: Hometown Idol, 5K / 1K, Vendors, Children’s Area, Entertainment. www.mansfieldchamber.org

Dallas State Fair of Texas: Fair Park. www.bigtex.com/

26 Saturday McKinney McKinney Oktoberfest 2009: Enjoy a fun, familyfriendly event that will offer authentic German music, food & drink, traditional costumes, dancing, children’s activities, and much more. For more information please visit www.downtownmckinney.com or contact McKinney Main Street at 972-547-2660.

Fort Worth Angel’s Kiss Gala: The 6th Annual Angel’s Kiss Gala to benefit the Vascular Birthmarks Foundation will be held at The Speedway Club at the Texas Motor Speedway (3545 Lone Star Circle in Fort Worth). 5:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m., Contact the Bolingers at 940-595-1800 or go to www.vbftexas. com. The cost for the event is $50 per person.

McKinney Eco Adventures: Canoes & Kayaks - Open to Public Day: Families, scouts and groups interested in professional development will have the opportunity to learn to canoe or kayak while experiencing nature’s beauty.

Spots are limited – make your reservation today! www.heardmuseum.org

Denton ‘Twogether in Texas’ Premarital Workshop 8:00 AM: Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home’s next Twogether in Texas class at 909 Greenlee St. in Denton. While this class is free, preregistration is required. Call (940) 382-5112 x 252 for more information or to sign up. twogetherintexas.com

This is your chance to tell other parents in DFW what businesses are the BEST at serving families in our local area.

Please go to www.MomsOutLoud.com and click on MomsReview for more details on how to make sure your favorite businesses win the Mom’s Voice!

Awards. Or, check for the businesses that other parents recommend!

Voting will occur through October 16 and winners will be announced at the North Texas Kids Expo at the Plano Centre on October 31.

Give your shout outs today!!

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

Carrollton Parents love the ease of having a private party at BounceU, while kids can’t wait to steal the spotlight in our jaw-droppingly cool bounce stadiums. Carrollton location 3050 N. Josey Lane, Suite 110, 75007. 972-939-5000 www.bounceu.com/cities/carrollton.tx

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

Kids Playtri Triathlon at Stonebridge Ranch 8:00 AM: Swim-bike-run kids event at the Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club. Information at stacibrode@hotmail.com. (214) 405 -5092

Dallas Slappy’s Puppet Playhouse is on the third level of the Galleria Dallas next to Nordstrom’s and Children’s Play Place. www.slappysplayhouse.com

Plano

DFW

2009 YES! Expo - 10:00 AM: The third annual YES! (Youth Explore Sports!) Expo will take place at Collin Creek Mall from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. www.youthexploresports.com

Playin’ Around Town hosts events throughout the Dallas metroplex during the mid-day hours Monday through Friday. All events are open for parents and their immediate family to attend, at NO CHARGE. www.playinaroundtown.com/

Grand Prairie Kids Fishing Day - 1:00 PM: Mike Lewis Park, 2600 N Carrier Parkway, Grand Prairie. Information: 972-237-8112. www.gptx.org

Grapevine pureNRG Concert - 3:00 PM: Doors will open at 3pm. Please call to reserve your tickets. Tickets will go on sale June 1, Tickets are $8.00 in advance; $10.00 at the door; and $7.00 per ticket for Groups of 20 or more Ryan.Goodman@fbcgrapevine.com

Arlington Trinity Trash Bash at Don Misenhimer Park: Bounce House, Free Food, and an afternoon of fun! www.trinitytrashbash.com

29 Tuesday September Plano A Beka Book Home School - 11:00 AM: A home school curriculum and text book sale. Admission is Free. For more information contact Mickey Pierce at 800-613-3222 Ext. 67 or visit our website at www.abeka.org At Plano Centre 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway

Ongoing Fun Classes and Activities

Arlington Everyday. Stay at Home Moms in the South Arlington area! Looking to get out with your kid or kids? Come hang out with us. We offer friendship, activities, and support! Our families would love to meet yours! arlingtonsmomsclub@yahoo. com www.momsclub.org Friday Night Open Skate.Elzie Odom Recreation Center, 1601 NE Green Oaks Blvd. 76006.

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

Monkey Grounds Indoor Play & Party Center.

Tuesdays & Thursdays from 9am-3pm: Parents Day Out! Fridays from 6:30-10:30 pm: Parent’s Night Out! Themes each Friday.. Call to reserve your spot today. Located at 2200 Airport Fwy, #620 in Bedford. Visit www. monkeygrounds.com for more information.

817-283-7009 www.monkeygrounds.com/

McKinney

Arlington

34

Bedford

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

27 Sunday

Announcing the 2009 Mom’s Voice! Awards for Dallas and Collin Counties!

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

Flower Mound/Highland Village Friday - Flower Mound 6 - 10 pm Saturday Highland Village 6 - 10 pm Excite! holds parents night out so that your children can enjoy their evening with friends and activities. Visit www.excitegymandcheer.com or call 972-874-9663 Flower Mound 972-874-8500 Highland Village for more information and reservations (Ages 3 - 11)

Frisco Tuesdays are Half Price Games - enjoy all midway games at half price! Wednesdays are Kids Eat Free (one free kid’s buffet* with the purchase of one adult buffet at regular price. *Kids 10 yrs. & under) www.gattitownfrisco.com

Frisco Wiggly Play Center weekdays - Daily Activities are at 11:00 am. Mondays - Arts & Crafts, Tuesday - Hop with Henry, Wednesday - Story time, Thursday - Dancing with Dorothy, Friday Wiggle with Wags. 4944 Preston Road, Suite 100 Frisco (469) 633-0676 www.wigglyplaycenter.com

Frisco Frisco Public Library Youth Services Programming. For more information on all programs call 972-292-KNOW or visit www.friscolibrary.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

Irving JumpSTART Stories and Art. The Irving Arts Center and Irving Public Library now offer FREE family storytimes at the Arts Center on the first Thursday of every month (through December) at 10 a.m. Stories are followed by a fun craft. ‘Seafaring Tales’ is the July theme. Call (972) 252-7558 x221 for more info.

Mansfield Mansfield Public Library has weekly storytimes for babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers. www.mansfield-tx.gov/departments/library

McKinney Second Saturdays Downtown McKinney. 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. 972-548-7830 7 PM - 10 PM www.artinstituteofmckinney.com

McKinney McKinney Farmers’ Market, Every Saturday 8AM - 1PM. Downtown McKinney at the southeast corner of Church Street & Louisiana Street.

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

Plano Story Times Plano Public Library System Schedules are available at any PPLS library or on our website www.planolibrary.org.

Plano Friday nights 7-10 pm. Plano Sports Authority brings Martial Arts Parents Night Out to Plano!

Open to all PSA Families and you must rsvp in advance at 972-208-3817 or martialarts@psaplano.org. 6500 Preston Meadow, Plano 75024. www.psaplano.org

Plano EVERY Wed night at Jump Town is Wacky Wednesday! Each Wednesday will have a Wacky Theme. Each week is different, so be sure to call or go to our website for our calendar of events.

To get the discount, child must participate in the Wacky Theme of the night. Offer not valid with other discounts or offers. Jump Town, 3045 W 15th Street 972-867-JUMP (5867) www.thejumptown.com

Plano, Flower Mound, Hurst Boomerangs, First & Third Thursday of each month. We open one hour early to special needs families so parents can jump with their children. The cost will be half price for the children (parents are free). Parent’s night out every Friday 7-11pm ages 6-11, dropoff begins at 6:30, $25 for 1st child, $15 for each sibling.

Please check website calendar or call for specific store hours. Plano: 214-473-9995, Flower Mound: 469-549-4400, Hurst 817-503-8100 www.boomerangspartyandplay.com

Princeton Groove Kids, Every Sun & Wed. Absolutely free to kids newborn thru 6th grade - Groove Kids is the place to be to have fun, hang out with Christian friends, enjoy Bible stories, cool music, and more! Every Sunday 10:45-12:00 and Wednesday 7-8 at Family Worship Center in Princeton, TX on Highway 380 @ Tickety Drive. (Call for directions 469.450.7437) www.groovekids.com

Richardson Peppermint Baby Boutique holds regular classes.

Peppermint Baby Boutique 1778 N. Plano Rd., Suite 100 in Richardson. Class information and registration at www.peppermint.com or by calling 214-623-5080.

Southlake

Arlington

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

MOMS Club of North Central Arlington Open House - Are you a SAHM living in Arlington between I-30 and Pioneer Pkwy? We offer activities for moms, kids, and families. E-mail: support.mom@hotmail.com or call Emily at (817)276-2589 www.momsclub.org

Southlake

Carrollton

Monday - Friday 10am-7:30pm. Jump! Zone is hosting Summer Open Play hours for all families. Do you need to get out of the hot sun or just relax while your kids jump off some energy. Visit Jump! Zone this summer at 280 Commerce St, Ste 100 Southlake,76092 www.jumpzoneparty.com

The Carrollton Early Childhood PTA is an organization dedicated to providing activities, support, friendships and education for parents of children age newborn through preschool.

For more information about the Carrollton Early Childhood PTA please visit our website www.cecpta.org.

Southlake Third Friday of each month, 6pm - 10pm Kids Night Out - 280 BLOCK PARTY! Jump Zone is hosting a Kids Night Out for ages 3-14.

Join Jump!Zone, Dollamur Martial Arts and Southlake Gymnastics Academy for a Kid’s Night Out! Call to pre-register! 817-778-8870 #4. Check in begins at 5:45 at 280 Sports front doors. Must be potty trained in order to participate. www.jumpzoneparty.com

Various REGISTER TODAY for Kids First Ice Hockey Program. A totally FREE, get-acquainted program that offers boys and girls, ages 4-8, the opportunity to ‘try’ the game of hockey at NO CHARGE. (214) GO SKATE www.drpepperstarcenter.com

Various Meetup Group for the Entire FAMILY. This is a fun and exciting meetup group for couples and families to fulfill all of their social needs! groups.yahoo.com/group/familiesonthego

Various Baylor Medical Centers provide ongoing classes in Irving, Frisco, Dallas, and Fort Worth.

1-800-4-BAYLOR www.baylorhealth.edu/

Various Drama Kids International is designed to develop students speaking skills, presentation abilities, acting skills and confidence. We offer parent presentations, spring performances, spring break and summer camps and speech and drama trophies and awards. Visit our website www. dramakids.com or call 214.592.4066.

Various Dallas / Fort Worth Cocker Spaniel Rescue Hosts special Meet & Greets scheduled in the area. All Saturday events at PETSMARTS ARE from 11 to 4 www.dfwcares.org

Allen

Support Groups

MOMS CLUB OF SE ALLEN - Are you a SAHM? Need some support, come join this welcoming group and get acquainted with great MOMS! We offer Playgroups, MNO’s, Monthly meetings and load of activities for you and your child. www.allenmoms.com

Allen MOMS club of Allen - West. Fun group of stay at home moms offering support to each other and fun activities with our children. Weekly playgroups and events. Visit our website www. momscluballenwest.com or email us at momsclub_allenwest@yahoo.com.

Plano Allen Early Childhood PTA. Meet the second Friday of every month from 9:30am to 11am during the school year at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 821 S. Greenville Ave. information@aecpta.com www.aecpta.com

Collin County The Collin County Moms Meetup group is a fun, down-to-earth group of moms dedicated to friendship and support. moms.meetup. com/994/

Collin County The Autism society of Collin County is an organization dedicated to providing support and resources to those families affected by Autism.

Visit www.autism-ascc.org or call 214-925-2722

Coppell/Valley Ranch The Coppell/Valley Ranch Early Childhood PTA (C/VR ECPTA) is a non-profit support organization for parents of infants and children age 5 and under. Everyone is welcome at our General Meeting on the 2nd Monday of every month, 9:30am-11:00am at the Coppell Family YMCA, 146 Town Center Blvd.To find out more visit our website at www.cvrecpta.org. Contact Info: Deby 214-236-8290

Dallas Moms Club of Dallas: North Central Chapter boundaries are I-30 to the south, I-635 to the north (exception: Addison), Marsh Lane to the east, and Garland Road to the west. info@momsclubofdallas.org

My Place - Tuesdays & Fridays. It’s an early intervention play & communication group. North Texas Therapy & Associates (972) 385-0006. 14580 E. Beltwood Parkway; Farmers Branch 75244

Farmers Branch My Place - We have early intervention play & communication group classes on Mondays Thursdays (please contact us for times). North Texas Therapy & Associates (972) 385-0006.

14580 E. Beltwood Parkway; Farmers Branch 75244 www.northdallasspeech.com

Fort Worth Its My Heart Support Group. Its My Heart is a support group for parents of children with congenital heart defects. Our meetings are the second thursday of each month at Cook Children’s hospital and start at 7pm. Please check out our website and click on the fort worth chapter page for more info. www.itsmyheart.org

Frisco Frisco Cares Children’s Clinic is a low-cost health clinic for uninsured children, 18 and younger, living in or attending school in Frisco, Celina or Prosper. The Clinic is held at Primera Bautista Iglesia each Wednesday (September April) located at 8581 5th Street, in Frisco (corner of 5th and Ash). Proof of residency (utility bill) or proof of school enrollment (report card) is required. www.friscocares.org

Frisco Frisco Early Childhood PTA. Meet at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 8000 Eldorado Parkway, Frisco, 2nd friday of the month @ 10am. membership@friscoecpta.org www.friscoecpta.org

Frisco

Dallas Dyslexia Information Group (DDIG) provides information on Dyslexia, Learning Differences, and related topics. This group meets at The Winston School, 5707 Royal Lane in Dallas, 75229 from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. on the second Monday of the month except for December. For information regarding the monthly speaker, call Bob 214-351-1985.

The Early Childhood Intervention of LifePath Systems Inc. at 2611 Internet Pkwy, suite 107, Frisco. Texas Interagency Council on Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a statewide program for families with children, birth to 3, with disabilities and developmental delays. Call 972-377-7289.

Garland

Dallas

Garland Area Early Childhood PTA. Meetings are held on the first Friday of each month, September through May, from 9:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at NorthLake Baptist Church, 1501 N. Country Club, Garland. 972-412-8540. www.earlychildhoodpta.com

La Leche League of Dallas offers breastfeeding information and support in our monthly meetings, which are open to pregnant and nursing mothers and their babies. We meet the first Thursday and third Thursday of each month at 7:30 pm at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas.

We also offer a Toddler Meeting on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 10 am at Greenland Hills United Methodist Church in Dallas. www.lllofdallas.org

Dallas/Collin County Free Parent Helpline. Non-profit group Dallas Association for Parent Education runs a free telephone helpline for parents, grandparents, and caregivers called The Warmline. The Warmline phone hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 3pm. Warmline phone number is 972-699-7742. dallasparents@hotmail.com www.dallasparents.org

Dallas/Plano/Frisco

Anna Marvelous North Collin County Moms Group.

We are a moms group with children from infants up to toddlers. www.meetup.com/sahm-3053

The Denton Area Mothers of Multiples (DAMOM) is a support group located in North

We are the MOMS Offering Moms Support Northeast Allen MOMS Club - Christy Youens at 469-675-6652 email momscluballenne@yahoo.com

Farmers Branch

Dallas

Far North Dallas Early Childhood PTA (FNDECPTA) is dedicated to facilitating an educational and supportive network of parents of infants, toddlers and pre-school aged children.

We meet in Room 133 at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd. at Plano Parkway, and offer free childcare. www. fndecpta.txpta.org

Plano

Texas for anyone who has, or is, expecting twins, triplets, quads or more! DAMOM meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month from 7pm - 9pm at First Baptist Church of Denton, located at 1100 Malone Street Room 216. damoms.clubspaces. com/Default_css.aspx

Denton

Grapevine/Colleyville MOMS Club of Grapevine-S/Colleyville-S. The MOMS Club is an international nonprofit organization specifically for at-home mothers.

Our All Member Meeting is the fourth Monday of every month, at 9:30am, at Heritage United Methodist Church, 4344 Heritage Avenue, across from Colleyville Heritage High School. For more information contact membership@gscsmomsclub.com or www.gscsmomsclub.com

Irving irvingHOMEschoolers is an all-inclusive group of homeschooling families which share support, ideas, and lots of field trips for homeschooling children. Last Thursday of each month (AugustMay) at Lee Park Recreation Center in Irving 7:00pm. www.irvinghomeschoolers.com

Lewisville The Greater Lewisville Special Education PTSA is an organization for parents, loved ones, and educators of children of all ages with special needs in the Greater Lewisville Area. We offer monthly programs with childcare one Thursday per month. Please visit us online at www.lisdseptsa.txpta.org or call (469) 293-6343 for more information.

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

35

Lewisville First Baptist Church of Lewisville MOPS. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 9am to Noon First Baptist Church of Lewisville, 1251 W Valley Ridge Blvd 972.436.5502 fbclmops@gmail.com Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village Greater Lewisville Mothers & More 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7 pm Z Grill 2321 Cross Timbers Rd # 413 Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.mothersnmore.com

Little Elm

1831 W. Louisiana, McKinney, Tx. 972-548-8788 for more information. www.academicsplus.com

McKinney MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of McKinney Central. Contact us at mckinneymoms@ yahoo.com www.geocities.com/mckinneymoms

McKinney Homemakers and CEOs. A support group for Moms with a passion for their small business and their love as homemakers. See site for full details. www.homemakersandceos.com

The Little Elm Epilepsy Support Group meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month from 7:00-8:00pm at the Little Elm Public Library. If you have any questions about the Little Elm Support Group, you may contact our facilitator, Tracy O’Mara at 972-987-4010.

Murphy/Sachse

Little Elm

North Coppell

Writer’s Support Group 3rd Thursday of each month 6 - 8 pm Join us at the Little Elm Library and bring your friends. Located in the Town Hall building at 100 W. Eldorado Pkwy 75068.

Contact 214-975-0430 or visit www.littleelm.com to verify changes

MOMs Club of Coppell - NORTH (boundaries are north of Sandy Lake to 121). Join us at Going Bonkers in Lewisville for our monthly meetings.

We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 10AM. Please call us at 866.841.9139 ext. 3555 or send us an email at momsclubofcoppell@ onebox.com. www.momsclubofcoppell.org

McKinney

MOMS Club of Murphy/Sachse if a non-profit support group for at home mothers living in the cities of Murphy/Sachse Texas. Contact us at murphy_sachse_moms@yahoo.com for additional information.

the month at various locations. Contact Christine Chavez at chavez.slp@gmail.com or Wendy Park at wlpark@sbcglobal.net for more information. www.spdnetwork.org/parentconnection/us.html

com. Classes will be held at The Medical Center of Plano. Medical Office Building III, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano.

Plano

PEACH - Plano Educational Association of Christian Homeschoolers, a volunteer, non-profit organization committed to serving homeschoolers in Plano and the surrounding North Texas communities, including every town in southern Collin County. We meet on the 4th Thursday of each month at Hunter’s Glen baptist Church.

Visit www.peachonline.org for more info.

Mothers and Others. Meet the second Tuesday of the month at 9:30 in the room 230 of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Activity Building. Call Trish Scogin 214-504-0640.

Plano The Plano/Collin County branch of the AAUW. Monthly meetings at the Davis Library, 7501 Independence Parkway, Plano the 2nd Monday of each month. Contact Carol at 972 862 3460 for more info. www.aauwplanocc.org

Plano CHILD & FAMILY Guidance Center. Contact our Plano Office at 4030 West Plano Parkway, Suite 211. 972.612.5989 www.childrenandfamilies.org

Plano Collin County Early Childhood PTA. Monthly meetings on the 2nd Monday of the month, 9:45 a.m., at Parkway Hills Baptist Church, located at 2700 Dallas Parkway, in Plano. Call Karen Maddox at 972-491-0260

DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids are programs offered regularly at McKinney Fellowship Bible Church. The group meets Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m., in room 107 of McKinney Fellowship Bible Church. Cost is only $30 for the workbook, materials and snacks. www.mcfbc.org

North Dallas

Plano

Mocha Moms of North Dallas meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at the Douglass Community Center on Ave. H in Plano. www.mochamomsnorthdallas.com

Plano Kiwanis Club meets each Wednesday for breakfast at 7:00 AM (always over by 8:00 AM) at La Madeleine Cafe, 5000 West Park Blvd at Preston Road. www.kiwanis.org/club/plano

McKinney

Asperger’s Support Meeting. 1st Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Please RSVP you and your child’s attendance by emailing events@featnt.org. Located FEAT-NT Resource Center and Library, 4239 Road to the Mall, North Richland Hills 76180 www.featnt.org 817-849-1122

La Leche League of McKinney provides free breastfeeding education and support to expectant and nursing mothers. Meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday each month from 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m. at Wysong Campus (affiliated with Medical Center of McKinney) at 120 S. Central Expwy, in the Education classroom. Use Main entrance.

For phone help contact DeeDee 972-838-9135 or email dlynn@dfwair.net. dlynn@dfwair.net

North Richland Hills

North Richland Hills

McKinney

Autism Support Meeting. 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Please RSVP you and your child’s attendance by emailing events@featnt.org. Located FEAT-NT Resource Center and Library, 4239 Road to the Mall, North Richland Hills 76180 www.featnt.org 817-849-1122

Grandparents Raising Grandkids Support Group. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday every month from 7-8 pm at Academics Plus,

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Parent Support Group. We generally meet the first Monday of

McKinney MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of McKinney East. For more info, e-mail momsmckinneyeast@yahoo.com.

Plano

Plano La Leche League of Plano meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 10:30 to 11:45 am at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3601 West 15th Street, Room 105. Call Beth 972-747-1297, Cleo 972-208-0158, or Emilie 469-366-7205, www.lllusa.org/web/PlanoTX.html

Plano MOMS Club of Plano North Central chapter.

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

Plano MOMS Club of Plano-North. Monthly Social Meeting is the first Wednesday of every month, at 10:00am, at the Baha’i Faith Plano Center at 4200 Hedgcoxe (just West of Coit Rd). For more information contact membership@momsclubplanonorth or 972-464-1958 www.momslubplanonorth.com

Plano MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of Plano Central Are you a stay at home mom living south of Spring Creek? Please join us for weekly playdates and monthly Mom’s night out!

We are small but growing and would love to have you. momsclubplano_central@yahoo.com

Plano Own my own mentoring program is a mentoring program for children with incarcerated parents sponsored by Dedicated Women of Christ.

Contact Latahra Smith, 972-3778254

Plano Collin County Homeschool Playgroup. geocities. com/collincountyhomeschoolplaygroup/

Plano The Scoliosis Center of Excellence at Medical Center of Plano is offering free diagnostic scoliosis screenings the first Wednesday of each month by appointment for children and adolescents up to 18 years of age. www.medicalcenterofplano.com or 1-877-24-SCOLI. www.medicalcenterofplano.com

Plano S.A.F.E.(Support and Activities for Food allergy Education) classes provide children an opportunity to learn more about food allergies, build self-esteem and confidence, and have fun with new friends who share a common bond. Classes are 15 dollars per child. For more information, please contact us at www.safewithfoodallergies.

36

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

Plano

Richardson MOMS Club of Richardson West is a local chapter of an international support organization. momsclubofrichardsonwest@gmail.com

Richardson Post Partum Depression Support Group.

Non-profit group Dallas Association for Parent Education will hold a free, monthly Post Partum Depression Support Group at their office in Richardson. This also offers network support for moms and families. To sign up or for more info call the DAPE office at 972-699-0420, Mon. - Fri., 9am - 3pm. dallasparents@hotmail.com www.dallasparents.org

Rockwall Are you a stay-at-home mom, or working mom, of an infant, toddler or preschooler in the Rockwall area? For more information, check out our website: http://www.rockwallsahm.com/

Rockwall MOMS Club of Rockwall. Monthly meeting is held the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 10:00am at the Free Methodist Church (SW corner of N. Goliad and FM 552). For more information contact rockwallmomsclub@hotmail.com or 214-771-3538, angelfire.com/tx5/rockwallmoms

Various RISE was organized “To help persons with physical challenges gain independence through a learning experience in adaptive outdoor adventures and sporting programs.” RISE membership and programs are FREE for qualified participants. Contact Joel Hendrix at jhendrix@riseadventures.org 469-762-5075 www.riseadventures.org

Wylie Moms & More: Be you a Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle, Grandparent or Nanny, we welcome all caregivers from Wylie and the surrounding communities. Our Monthly Convergence is held on the first Thursday of each month.

Contact Diva@wyliemomsandmore.org www.wyliemomsandmore.org

Submitting Events Please submit all events to us online at www.northtexaskids.com.

Have you read our blog lately?

Check it out at northtexaskids.com/ntkblog/

Index of Advertisers Academy of Dance Arts

22

Gray School of Music

Action Martial Arts

23

Adventure Kids

18, 20

Princess & Pirates Dressup

30

Guardian Pet Sitters

30

Pump It Up Junior

9

32

Healthy Texan Pediatrics

14

Pumpkin Littles

9

All Creatures Vet

30

Heroes For Children

19

Rainforest Cafe

9

Angels of Care Pediatric

2

It’s A Sensory World

11

Reliv

30

Aquafit Swim & Wellness

21

Jump Town

21

Rich Educational Consulting

10

Artistic Gatherings

21

Jump Zone

12

Rockwall Indoor Sports Expo

22

Bee Dazzled

31

Just Between Friends

16

Scraptions by Christy

30

Blackland Triathalon

39

Key Note Music

20

Smashing Times

20

Boomerangs

12

Kids Care Therapy

30

SoccerTots

27

Bounce U - Carrollton

11

Kidtoon Films

39

Speaker Coop

32

Child Play Music

21

Lakehill Prepatory School

20

St. Catherine of Siena Preschool

30

Children’s Medical Center

4

Learning RX

11

State Farm Insurance

13

Coffee n Cream

19

Little Saints Child Development Center 20

Studio 3 Dance

20

CSM Printing

15

Lorie Burch

13

Sweet & Sassy

15

Made of Sugar & Spice

31

Texas Tough Bike Bash

39

Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

5

Dallas Children’s Theater

17

Matco Services

14

The Artist Within

21

Dallas International School

22

Mathnasium Plano

22

The Eisemann Center

32

Dallas Symphony

18

McDonald’s – O’Reilly’s

38

The Ice at Stonebriar

14

Dance Zone by Sarasue’s Academy 23

McKinney Main Street

36

The Painted Pottery

14

Dr Pepper StarCenter

38

Museum of Nature & Science

3

The Purple Cow

11

Drama Kids International

21

Music Together

32

The Wiggly Play Center

10

Dynamic Therapy

30

Noah’s Ark

30

Therapy 2000

3

Eagle Gymnastics

20

North Texas Kids

23, 25, 40

Tutoring Club

22

Elite Champion Gymnastics

23

Odyssey Theatrical

12

USA Martial Arts

21

Epic MedStaff

10

Paige’s Swim School

23

US Toy Co

3

ER Centers

38

Paint Yer Pottery

19

White Dove Montessori

31

Evelyn’s Janitorial

16

PAMOM’s Annual Sale

30

Words R Me

10

Excite Gym & Cheer

23

Plano International Festival

11

YMCA Metro Dallas

20

Family e-Guide

30

Plano Sports Authority

27

Yogun Fruz

13

Gotta Dance

21

Planting Seeds Christian

30

Please tell our advertisers you saw them in North Texas Kids!

Find links to all of these businesses on our website at www.northtexaskids.com North Texas Kids • September 2009 • www.NorthTexasKids.com

37

8_hj^ZWo FWhjo <kd M[ Ze _j Wbb \eh oek" ie h[bWn [d`eo

+ tax

for up to 10 children $6.10 for each additional child

7bb[d CYA_dd[o FbWde H_Y^WhZied

FWhjo _dYbkZ[i0 Happy Meal , Cake, Ice Cream, Decorations, ®

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

Je cWa[ h[i[hlWj_edi0 Visit www.OreillyMCD.com or call our birthday party hotline at 972.985.9285.

Dem 7lW_bWXb[ - ZWoi W m[[a De Z[fei_j h[gk_h[Z$ Locally owned and operated by Chuck and Julie O’Reilly

38

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

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

39

A Halloween Extravaganza!

At the Plano Centre October 31, 2009 from 10am to 4pm FREE Family Expo beneďŹ ting the programs of CITY House

A Free Event for the Whole Family!

Costume Contests for All Ages!

Live Entertainment s Arts & Crafts s Door prizes Trick or Treating s Bounce Houses s Face Painters Ronald McDonald s Radio Disney Educational Seminars (Child Care will be provided) Watch our website for more up-to-date details: www.northtexaskids.com

Vendors Wanted! Sign up online today!

Visit www.northtexaskids.com/expo Call 972-516-9070 Email info@northtexaskids.com