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H S SPLA Stand on the EdGe of Adventure

Get up close and discover some of the world’s largest animals at the Fort Worth Zoo’s all-new habitat, Elephant Springs! Experience the Asian elephant herd and greater one-horned rhino splashing, rumbling and roaming alongside lush, tropical landscapes and an authentic village, transporting you to the other side of the world.

now open!

Plan Your Visit Today! fortworthzoo.orG dfwchild.com / june 2021

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pages / J U N E

2021

The Summer Issue 37 THINGS TO DO

Mark your calendar for these summertime events—or plan a date for your whole crew

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8 PLACES TO GO S ummer fun, here we come! Here are destinations your family won’t want to miss, in Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond

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COURTESY OF FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY; DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART; ISTOCK

ON THE COVER

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Cover Kid: Iain, 8 Photography: Cindy James / Alyssa Pizer Management

9 The Wild Life: Animal encounters 12 Van Gogh Go Go: Create and appreciate art 14 Giddy Up: Live the cowboy life 14 Get Cultured: Encourage understanding and diversity 16 Engaged Minds: Learn and play at the same time 18 Get Out of the Heat: All the fun, none of the sun 18 In the Pages: Open up a literary adventure 18 Outside World: Where to leave behind indoor voices 24 Delectable Summer: Savory and sweet experiences 28 Texas History Lessons:

Outings unique to the Lone Star State 30 Chugging Along: Train rides near and far 30 Water World: Water parks and paddling spots

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42

Soak Up the Sun: 29 kid-friendly events in June and July 33 Family Dates: More places that will delight parents and kiddos alike

45 FUN FOR ALL Keep kids with special needs busy with activities just for them, from gymnastics and swimming to performing arts and social opportunities

46 All-Abilities Parks: Where all children can play side by side 48 Indoor Play: Fun in the A/C 48 Amusement Park: A place built with your child in mind 48 Sports and Movement: Stay active with these ideas 52 Performance and Fine Arts:

Musical and artistic experiences for all 52 Movie Showings: Screenings that welcome movement and noise 54 Social Activities and Life Skills:

Building friendships and independence

COLUMNS

6 Hello / Let’s Hit the Road

The excitement of getting out there words Lauren Niebes

62 Look Back / Past & Present

Take a trip down memory lane with our first cover kid of FortWorthChild in September 1992 dfwchild.com / june 2021

5

1 CLOCKWISE // A few of the places I can't wait to visit this summer: 1. Inspiration Alley, Fort Worth 2.

Sharkarosa, Pilot Point 3. Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth .

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june 2021 / dfwchild.com

NOTE

let’s hit the road

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HIS SUMMER IS GOING TO BE WHEELS OFF—I can feel it already. This season has always brought a heightened sense of freedom and excitement, and this year it seems like there’s a collective rush to experience life outside our bubbles again.

So with confidence climbing and vaccines in arms, it’s time to get on the road—even if it’s just down the street to support your local bookstore (see our roundup of kid-friendly bookstores)—and back to enjoying our beloved North Texas area with a newfound appreciation for the wealth of family activities on our doorstep.

With this renewed vigor for exploration in mind, we turned our entire June issue into a curated guide—with tons of places to go and things to do this summer. Take your kids and pandemic puppy to Klyde Warren Park (in separate play areas, of course), drive down to Georgetown for some lessons on the difference between stalactites and stalagmites, and ride the rails between Dallas and Fort Worth with your Thomas the Tank Engine enthusiast. For this section, we didn’t focus on classes or camps (because that requires some extra planning), only places that take you when you want to go (which might mean purchasing a timed ticket at some locations).

And while we know that there is often no such thing as impromptu visits to a museum when you have a child with special needs, we’ve curated summer fun for them too. Turn to page 3 45, where you’ll find an entire section filled with all-abilities activities and classes. And when flipping through the rest of the magazine, anywhere you see a star, that venue offers an accommodation for people with special needs.

Whether you need to get some of your kiddos’ energy out (let them pretend to be a ninja warrior, for example), need to satisfy your sugar cravings, or in need of some family date ideas, we hope you use this guide to plan one of your best summers yet.

Here’s to getting back on the road.

COURTESY OF FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY/INSPIRATION ALLEY; SHARKAROSA; FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

hello / E D I T O R ’ S

PUBLISHER/ EDITOR IN CHIEF Joylyn Niebes

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lauren Niebes

EDITORIAL

Managing Editor

Alexis Patterson Calendar Editor

Elizabeth Smith

DIGITAL

Digital Editor

Sydney Blalock Ritchie Directory Editor Lexy Davis

ART

Contributing Editorial Designer

Lesley Busby

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places to go

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DFWCHILD IS ON A MISSION to

keep you from hearing the dreaded B word this summer. We rounded up 233 places you can take your children so the phrase “Mom, I’m bored” won’t be uttered even one time. Animal encounters, food fun, indoor play, outdoor adventures, train rides, science spots, cultural experiences and more: Whether you’re looking for a quick neighborhood outing or a road trip, we have you covered.

KEY

8

ROAD TRIP

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

SPECIAL NEEDS

ELEPHANT SPRINGS AT FORT WORTH ZOO

( ANIMALS )

THE WILD LIFE

Get drawn in at these creature encounters

Aquariums

1

Trek through a cloud forest, wave to a friendly manatee, see sharks and sawfishes swimming all around as you traverse a tunnel—it’s possible at DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM, a massive collection of aquarium and zoo animals located in the Historic West End District.

An octopus, an ocelot, leafy sea dragons, miniature seahorses, sloths, colorful birds, a gigantic crocodile and a huge anaconda: They’re all there, and that’s just the beginning. Dallas; 214/720-2224, dwazoo.com

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At Grapevine Mills mall’s SEA

LIFE GRAPEVINE

aquarium, you’ll find some 3,000 creatures. Check out the interactive rockpools, where you can touch sea stars and anemones, then head to the Sea Turtle Rescue Center. Your kiddos will also enjoy Stingray Bay, the Rainforest Adventure and other exhibits. You can even take a behindthe-scenes tour. Make it a double outing with a visit to Legoland Discovery Center, also in Grapevine Mills.

Grapevine; 469/444-3050, visitsealife.com/grapevine

animals 3 Experience from five continents at .

AQUARIUM: COURTESY SEA LIFE GRAPEVINE; HORSE RIDING: RIVER RANCH EDUCATIONAL CHARITIES

SEAQUEST FORT WORTH

This aquarium at Ridgmar Mall offers 20,000 square feet of adventure. Snorkel with stingrays, and hang out with a kinkajou in enhanced interactions; with regular admission, make your way through exhibits ranging from an Icelandic fishing village to the Great Wall of China. In a Seaside Spa Session, toothless fish will nibble at dead skin on your feet. Fort Worth; 817/731-5357, fortworth. visitseaquest.com

SEA LIFE GRAPEVINE

Horse Riding

on property with a lead line.

Fort Worth; 817/2491001, benbrookstables. com

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RIVER RANCH EDUCATIONAL CHARITIES AT TEXAS HORSE PARK: Saddle

up and experience the sights and sounds of Dallas’ Trinity Forest. Guided beginner trail rides are available for age 9 and up, but younger kiddos aren’t left out. They can enjoy the pony rides until they’re old enough for the trails.

Dallas; 469/804-2660, riverranch-texashorsepark. com

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BENBROOK STABLES: Guided rides on scenic trails around Lake Benbrook are available for age 8 and up; littles can ride

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STOCKYARDS STABLES:

Grab your cowboy hat and then meander the Old Chisholm Trail on horseback (if you’re 8 or older).

Little ones age 3 and up can take an arena horseback ride during the week, when the wranglers aren’t so busy. Extend your visit with stagecoach and carriage rides. Yeehaw, y’all. Fort Worth; 817/247-2510, fortworthstockyardsstables. com

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YMCA CAMP CARTER TRAIL RIDES: Starting

at age 8, kiddos can take an on-property trail ride at

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the YMCA Camp Carter Equestrian Center, which features a hardwood forest, grasslands and one of the highest points in the area. Fort Worth; horses@ ymcafw.org, ymcacampcarter.org/equestrian

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LITTLE HARTS PONY PARTIES: Gather

up to a dozen kids for a weekend outing filled with pony carts and horse riding at Little Harts Ranch, or schedule a private pony ride. Lucas; 214/923-0370, littlehartsbookings.com

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T BAR T PONY RIDES: Want

the ponies to come to you? T Bar T Pony Rides is based in McKinney but serves other cities. They’ll bring out ponies for any occasion. McKinney and surrounding areas; 214/924-5680, texasponyrides.com

PAWS FOR REFLECTION

RANCH: This ranch about a half hour southwest of downtown Dallas offers therapeutic horseback riding, including for children who have special needs.

The site has a covered arena, nature trail and sensory trail. Midlothian; 972/775-8966, pawsforreflectionranch.org

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SOUTHFORK RANCH TRAIL

RIDES This Collin County ranch—home of the Ewing Mansion featured in the television series Dallas—is a great spot for horseback riding. Trail rides are open to age 8 and up. Parker; 972/442-7800, southforkranch.com/southforkranch-trail-rides

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MARSHALL CREEK RANCH:

Saddle up and take a trail

dfwchild.com / june 2021

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ride through wooded acreage and across creeks surrounding Lake Grapevine. Rides are available for age 7 and up. Southlake; 817/490-8796, marshallcreekranch.com

Petting Zoos

During the summer, 13 you can book a party at COUNTRY CRITTERS FARM (about 10 minutes

south of Mansfield) and let the kids enjoy goats, sheep, pigs, a donkey, a cow and a rabbit in the petting zoo— there’s even the occasional praying mantis. Other activities include a bounce house, playground areas, a pony ride, barrel train, a hayride and a wooden maze and games. Staying in?

The petting zoo and pony rides can also travel to you.

Alvarado; 682/593-1866, countrycrittersfarm.com

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Just north of Prosper in Grayson County, you’ll find the petting farm at PRESTON TRAIL FARMS. Your family can get up-close-and-personal with about 40 farm animals—including goats, sheep, cows, even longhorn cattle. University of Texas fans will be especially impressed. (University of Oklahoma fans less so, obviously.) Gunter; 972/382-4995, prestontrailfarms.com

15Head tointhethe

STOCKYARD STABLES PETTING ZOO

Stockyards Historic District to see, touch and feed farm animals, the usual and some more unexpected.

Fort Worth; 817/247-2510, fortworthstockyardsstables. com

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From frolicking mini horses and fuzzy alpacas to piglets, kangaroos, peacocks and iguanas, what can’t you see at CATHY’S CRITTERS? This Collin County destination is a petting farm (a mobile 10

WILD LIFE

petting zoo is available too) that also offers pony rides.

Trail rides are available on Saturdays for age 8 and up.

Princeton; 972/562-0583, cathyscritters.com

You 20 don’t have to leave

Road trip to Broken 17 Bow, Oklahoma, and make a stop at the

RIM WILDLIFE CENTER.

HOCHATOWN RESCUE CENTER & PETTING ZOO. You’ll meet Alfalfa

the alpaca, Blakey the kangaroo, Pixie the flying squirrel, Queen Ruby the raccoon and more rescued animals. It will be a highlight of your trip, for sure.

Go to the Facebook page for a preview of the cute animals you’ll see on-sit.

Broken Bow, Oklahoma; 580/494-7387, facebook. com/hochatownpettingzoo

Wildlife Experiences

18The habitat at

JOHN BUNKER

SANDS WETLANDS CENTER will give you a unique

wildlife experience. About 25 minutes southeast of downtown Dallas, the wetlands are home to more than 250 species of birds, including American bald eagles, plus rabbits, deer, snakes, native green tree frogs, dragonflies, turtles and other creatures. Family Fun Days are planned for the summer season, and a fishing event will be held in early August. Call for details.

Seagoville; 972/474-9100, wetlandcenter.com

your car to experience the animals at FOSSIL

Drive through the park and see animals such as the addax, the African spurred tortoise, black-tailed jackrabbits, gazelle, southern white rhinos, ostriches, giraffes and the greater kudu. Some you’ll gaze at from afar, while other animals will be really close—eager to get some of the food pellets you’ll toss. Stay for the night at the lodge or in a cabin. Glen Rose; 254/8972960, fossilrim.org isn’t the only 21Africa place to go on safari. is the TEXAS SAFARI

state’s oldest wildlife park and home to more than 700 exotic animals. There are even 15 species that are extinct or nearly extinct in the wild. Stay in a luxe cabin on the 1,000-acre ranch in the northern Hill Country—maybe you’ll even get a wakeup call

from Marsha the camel.

It’s an experience you will never forget. Can’t make it out to the park?

Go online to access a live feed of the giraffe house; you’ll feel like you’re there. Clifton; 214/3843000, texassafari.com

22 Oklahoma’sis another ARBUCKLE WILDERNESS PARK

drive-through experience. Hundreds of exotic animals—American bison, aoudads, antelope, camels, donkeys, markhors, nilgai and others—roam free across more than 200 acres in the Arbuckle Mountains.

And yes, you can feed these animals from your car too.

Make your family road trip a double with a visit to nearby Turner Falls. Davis, Oklahoma; 800/738-7275, arbucklewildernesspark. com

Zoos

Check out more 23 than 2,000 aweinspiring animals across

106 acres at the DALLAS ZOO. Your family can take part in the Backstage Safari to find out how zookeepers care for the animals, then enjoy a spin on the carousel or catch a train ride for the grand tour.

Dallas; 469/554-7500, dallaszoo.com

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A 2020 USA Today poll ranked the FORT WORTH ZOO as No. 1 in the nation. Come see 542 species, including the herd at the new Elephant Springs habitat.

Your kiddo can also be a junior conductor on the zoo train, ride the carousel and get wet at Safari Splash.

Fort Worth; 817/759-7555, fortworthzoo.org

Tripping through 25 Texas? Make a stop at the CAMERON PARK ZOO in Waco. Rhinos,

tigers, greater kudus, a Komodo dragon, orangutans (including one we hear likes to get unsuspecting visitors wet)… There’s no shortage of animals to discover at this 52-acre spot along the Brazos River.

The kiddos will also be

The name is wild 19 and so are the creatures!

SHARKAROSA WILDLIFE RANCH, near

Lake Ray Roberts, is home to alpacas, beefalo (that’s a thing), a zorse (that’s a thing), a zedonkey (that’s a thing), black bears, macaws, wallabies and many others. About the only things you won’t see at Sharkarosa are, well, sharks. Pilot Point; 940/686-4600, sharkarosa. com

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

CATHY’S CRITTERS

ZEBRA: TEXAS SAFARI MAGAZINE; PIGLETS WITH GIRL: CATHY’S CRITTERS

places to go / T H E

ADVERTISEMENT

YMCA OF METROPOLITAN DALLAS Serving children of all ages across 8 counties in North Texas At the Y, kids are our specialty! For 135 years, the Y’s goal has been to get families active and involved, regardless of their income, and we pride ourselves on having something for everyone!

depots, and meal giveaways. This was a fitting way to celebrate the 135th anniversary of the YMCA in Dallas. Since 1885, we have adapted to meet our communities where they are and 2020 was no different.

What do you think of when you hear “YMCA”? The Village People? Swim lessons? Youth sports? A gym?

We’re all those things and more!

Well, maybe not the Village People, but we are often called “America’s Swim Teacher”, and basketball was invented at a YMCA facility. Did you know Father’s Day was invented at the Y too? The Y’s rich history is full of fun facts, but our mission doesn’t live in the past.

We are charging ahead in 2021 and beyond with renewed focus on:

Though last year was a challenging one for many of us, the Y’s commitment to meeting the changing needs of our communities shone brightly as we offered free childcare to essential workers, hosted food and household item distributions, blood drives, baby

• Water Safety – Becoming the leading provider in swim safety/ instruction to eliminate childhood drowning in North Texas.

• Mental Health, Belonging, and Well-Being – Creating stronger and more confident youth/young adults through welcoming, safe environments.

sites, the Y’s work is felt throughout the community daily. Our mission: To put Christian values into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We feel strongly about the for all part of our mission as we believe that all community members should have access to all that we offer, regardless of income. Therefore, financial assistance is available for almost every YMCA program.

This work is possible thanks to the donors and volunteers who give their time and financial support to the YMCA so generously.

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Ensuring the Y and our programs are welcoming, safe and accessible for all.

We invite you and your family to come be a part of the community we serve; it’s 200,000 people strong each year and spans Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Hopkins, Palo Pinto, and Rockwall counties.

Through our 16 YMCA facilities, 2 camps, and hundreds of program

Learn more about the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas at ymcadallas.org.

ymcadallas.org

GOGH GO GO

delighted to find the zoo’s playground and splash pad., Waco; 254/750-8400, cameronparkzoo.com

in Cooke County, north of Dallas-Fort Worth.

Gainesville; 940/668-4533, frankbuckzoo.com

The 26 isn’t big in size, but it’s not short on

( ART )

FRANK BUCK ZOO

experiences. Feed a giraffe or a flamingo and meet other animals at this zoo

( LLAMAS )

NO PROBLLAMA Whether you have a Fortnite fan at home or just want to check out these very social animals, there are some places tailormade for you.

27 SHANGRILLAMA CASTLE: Pedigreed

llamas reside at this replica Irish castle northeast of Rockwall.

This summer, book Llama Lesson—a photo session and learning opportunity inside the castle barn for age 4 and up. Barack O’Llama, the Dalai Llama, Bahama Llama, Pajama Llama and the others await the honor of your presence. Royse City; 972/632-9385, shangrillama.com

28 LLAMAZING PARTY ANIMALS:

Come visit these Ellis County llamas that get decked out in colorful finery, or let them come to you. And there’s more than just llamas here—Llamazing Party Animals’ ponies, mini donkeys, alpacas, pigs and more are at your service. Palmer; 469/999-5989, llamazingpartyanimals. com

29 LAUGHING LLAMA FARM: Book

a Laughing Llama Farm Experience to meet Bruce, Callie, Bunny Pearl and the rest of the hard at this farm between Waco and Temple. Enjoy other farm activities and stay in the on-site Silo House for an eclectic getaway.

Troy; 254/723-0747, thesilohouseatlaughingllamafarm.com

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VAN GOGH GO GO

Paint the roses red or whatever color you like

Drop-by Art

30 Worth,

With locations in Euless and Fort

CLOTH & GLAZE PAINTING STUDIO allows

you to drop in on a lark (to paint on canvas or pottery) or arrange for a take-home art kit. Allow 10 days for your ceramic masterpiece to be fired before it’s ready for pickup. Euless; 817/5757689; Fort Worth; 972/9791384, clothandglaze.com

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We have two words: splatter room. At PIPE & PALETTE, your kid can finally make a mess without getting in trouble. In a private room for smaller parties, put on goggles and a poncho and go crazy with paint! You can also book a paintyour-pet session or handlettering workshop, or drop in for pottery painting.

Mommy & me classes and children’s camps are also available. Frisco; 214/5012314; Plano; 972/482-0755, pipeandpalette.com

by 32 Drop on the ARTS CENTER

IRVING

first Thursday of every month to pick up an art kit for the virtual JumpstART Stories and Art series.

Kiddos age 2 and up will engage their creativity with storytime and an art project. There’s also in-person and virtual art camps to consider.

Irving; 972/252-7558, irvingartscenter.com

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Museums

Show kiddos that 33 art extends beyond a canvas at

NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER. The

indoor-outdoor galleries include works by Picasso, Rodin and other celebrated artists. Go online to find activities (including a virtual quest, virtual scavenger hunt and kid-friendly discussion questions) to complement your visit, plus other ideas for family fun.

Check out the Free First Saturdays at Home section of the website for projects that will exercise and inspire creativity in your child. Dallas; 214/242-5100, nashersculpturecenter.org

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The DALLAS

MUSEUM OF ART believes

that art appreciation can begin at the youngest of ages. Wander the galleries as a family, then pick up a free art kit (available at the museum entrance on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month).

From June 9 through August 11, the DMA will offer its Sketching in the Galleries program on selected dates. General admission to the museum is free. Dallas; 214/9221200, dma.org

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In Fort Worth, the

AMON CARTER MUSEUM OF ART will

give you a hand in encouraging your kid’s attention—pick up an interactive tote and get hands-on activity ideas.

Families are also invited to play on the grounds.

Peruse the Amon Carter’s calendar and you’ll find multiple events that are great for babies and toddlers. Fort Worth; 817/738-1933, cartermuseum.org

MODERN ART MUSEUM OF FORT WORTH

While you’re in 36 the area, be sure to swing by the

KIMBELL ART MUSEUM. The Kimbell has

family gallery guides that help kids interact with the museum, ensuring a fun and educational experience for all. You can also go to the website to download coloring pages inspired by the Kimbell’s collection.

Check the online calendar to find info on free virtual summer workshops for kids. Fort Worth; 817/3328451, kimbellart.org.

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In Cowtown’s famed cultural district sits the

MODERN ART MUSEUM OF FORT WORTH, which

offers free admission for children, free general admission on Fridays and half-price tickets on Sundays. Kids will be mesmerized by the expansive reflecting pool—just don’t fall in. Go online for info about this summer’s virtual art camps and downloadable projects for all kids.

Fort Worth; 817/738-9215, themodern.org

Outdoor Art

A TV with a 38 guitar-playing dinosaur, a herd of

elephants, Dirk Nowitzki with outstretched arms—these are just a few of the huge DEEP ELLUM MURALS that contribute to neighborhood’s cool vibe. They’re fun to see and

make a memorable spot to capture summertime pics.

Go online to find precise addresses for Deep Ellum TV (Frank Campagna), Deep Ellumphants (Adrian Torres), DIRK (Josh Mittag) and other iconic works.

Dallas, deepellumtexas. com/10-classic-deep-ellummurals-guide For those who love 39 weirder things, go see artist Tony Tasset’s EYE

that watches over downtown. The 30-foot-tall orb is in the garden of the posh Joule Hotel and looks like it could use some eye drops.

It will certainly hold your gaze. 1601 Main St., Dallas

If your kid 40 thinks Big Tex is impressive, head over to

Deep Ellum to meet the towering, stainless steel robot that welcomes residents and visitors. He’s part of THE TRAVELING MAN series, the work of artists Brad Oldham and Brandon Oldenburg. You can find all three parts of the series along Good Latimer Expressway. The Traveling Man – Awakening at Elm Street & Good Latimer, The Traveling Man – Waiting on a Train at Gaston Avenue & Good Latimer, and The Traveling Man – Walking Tall at Swiss Avenue & Good Latimer, Dallas

Every child loves a 41 teddy bear. But how about a 10-foot limestone

MUSEUM: THE MODERN; GIRLS PAINTING: DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART

places to go / V A N

places to go teddy bear? This sort-ofcuddly creature and surrounding cubs (the work of J.T. Williams and donated by a private citizen) can be found at the lovely LAKESIDE PARK. Sit in the bear’s lap for a picture and then go feed some ducks. 4601 Lakeside Drive, Highland Park; hptx.org

at a work51Stay ing cattle ranch at .

BEAUMONT RANCH

Learn to rope and ride with wrangelers and feel like you’ve really gotten the family away (even though you’re only 35 minutes south of Fort Worth). Grandview; 817/866-4000, beaumontranch.com

Appropriately named

INSPIRATION ALLEY, this

Instagrammable alleyway in Cowtown’s Foundry District is another spot that’s perfect for capturing family selfies and portraits.

You will find yourself surrounded by incredibly colorful murals, from multiple artists, that are ever-changing—so every visit will be a bit different.

Carroll Street, Fort Worth; thefoundrydistrictfw.com/ inspiration-alley

( COWBOYS )

GIDDY UP

From rodeo cowboys to those playing at AT&T Stadium

Cowboy Museums & Attractions

Nothing screams 43 cowboy like the famous

FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS. And there’s

so much to do here. One event you should make time for is the Fort Worth herd cattle drive that takes place twice a day. There’s also the Legends of Texas Gunfight shows that take place each weekend. Make sure to check online for each month’s list of events.

Fort Worth; 800/433-5747, fortworthstockyards.org

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At the NATIONAL

MULTICULTURAL WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM, kids can learn

about the contributions from Hispanic, Native American, European, Asian 14

Texas Rangers

When you’re in 52 the Hill Country, visit the INSPIRATION ALLEY

and African individuals who helped settle the western frontier. Make sure to visit the Hall of Fame, where you can see exhibits that highlight the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, the Vaquero and Native American chiefs.

Fort Worth; 817/534-8801, cowboysofcolor.org Do your kids love 45 the rodeo? Check out the

TEXAS COWBOY HALL OF FAME, which

has a massive display of rodeo mementos. Along with learning about over 100 men and women who excelled in rodeo, you can also see the Sterquell Wagon collection, a 1933 Cadillac owned by Amon G. Carter, take pictures in the “old-tyme” photo parlor and more. Fort Worth; 817/626-7131, tchof.com

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Celebrate the women (past and present) who helped shape the west at the NATIONAL COWGIRL MUSEUM & HALL OF FAME. Some of

the iconic women you’ll see and learn more about here include Sacagawea, Georgia O’Keefe, Laura Ingalls

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Wilder and Annie Oakley.

Fort Worth; 817/336-4475, cowgirl.net Did you ever watch 47 the show Dallas? If so, you might be famil-

iar with SOUTHFORK RANCH. But the ranch has much more going for it than just being a set for a popular TV show. Trail rides, tours and more are available to reserve. Plus, you can even stay here and book one of the ranch’s fun packages available if you’re trying to plan a staycation.

Parker; 972/442-7800, southforkranch.com

Dude Ranches

a trip to the 48Take where the whole

FLYING L RANCH RESORT

family can take part in fun activities—from horseshoes, basketball and ping pong to campfire s’mores, wagon rides, horseback rides and fishing. Bandera; 830/796-7745, flyingl.com

western with 49Get luxury at . There is so CREEK LODGE

ROUGH

much to do, you probably won’t have time for everything. Pptions to keep on your to-do list: zipline and climbing wall, petting cor-

ral, a kids ranch, s’mores, fossil hunting, tomahawk throwing, horseback riding, hiking, hayrides and canoeing. Glen Rose; 800/8644705, roughcreek.com

50

Right around the corner from Possum Kingdom Lake is WILDCATTER RANCH. Your kids will feel like real cowboys and cowgirls as they ride horse, throw tomahawks, shoot arrows, learn to rope and more.

TEXAS RANGERS HERITAGE CENTER ,

which highlights the service of these famed lawmen and women. Take a walking tour to learn all about the site and past and present Rangers.

Fredericksburg; 830/9972698, trhc.org

53At the

TEXAS RANGER HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM, learn

about the this law enforcement agency through artifacts, artwork and archives that highlight the work of Texas Rangers over the years. Waco; 254/7508631, texasranger.org

NATIONAL COWGIRL MUSEUM

INSPIRATION ALLEY: COURTESY FWMSH; SADDLES: NATIONAL COWGIRL MUSEUM

42

Graham; 940/549-3500, wildcatterranch.com

The Other Cowboys and Rangers

54

For a behind-thescenes look at America’s favorite team, visit THE STAR, Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters in Frisco. On a tour, your family will be able to walk through the team’s massive practice and athletic facility and see the War Room where the NFL draft is conducted, Super Bowl memorabilia and more.

Frisco; 972/497-4800, thestarinfrisco.com

Tour the massive 55 , where the the Dallas AT&T STADIUM

Cowboys play. Step on the field to throw the ball around, learn about the stadium and walk through the press box and locker rooms. There are four types of tours. While you’re at it, book a tour to view the Dallas Cowboys Art Collection, with over 20 works by artists such as Mel Bochner and Ellsworth Kelly. Arlington; 817/892TOUR, attstadium.com/ tours

Take a tour of 56 the Texas Rangers’ new

GLOBE LIFE FIELD,

ballpark in Arlington.

There are three tours to choose from (a ballpark tour, premium tour and gameday tour). Each tour will take you through the stadium, where you will take great pictures and learn some history about the club. With the premium tour, you even get to have some time in the outfield to play catch. Home run!

Arlington; 817/533-1833, mlb.com/rangers/ballpark/ tours

( DIVERSITY)

GET CULTURED

Foster understanding and empathy

54

THE DALLAS HOLOCAUST AND HUMAN RIGHTS MUSEUM teaches the history of the

Holocaust as well as how to combat prejudice, hatred and become an “upstander.” While visiting, you’ll see haunting artifacts such as concentration camp uniforms and pictures, a railway car used to transport prisoners and propaganda used by the Third Reich. Once you reach the human rights section, you’ll learn about the upstanding individuals who paved the way for significant changes in society.

Important note: The recommended minimum age for visitors is 12, as the themes, exhibits and materials are mature and graphic. Dallas; 214/7417500, dhhrm.org

58

THE SOUTH DALLAS CULTURAL CENTER holds events

and exhibitions highlighting African literary, performing and visual arts to celebrate Black creative culture. This July, see an exhibit by Jeremy Biggers, a Dallas-based artist who creates everything from drawings and paintings to photography and film. This summer, the SDCC is also hosting multiple camps for kids in fifth grade and up, focusing on art lessons, the impact of music, and African drum and dance.

Dallas; sdcc.dallasculture.org

The 20-acre green space known 59 as boasts all the usual perks (such as a OPPORTUNITY PARK

playground and trails) but also features art installations emphasizing some of the city’s African American forerunners and history. As you walk around, keep an eye out for the gray cylindrical structure—you can walk inside and read through plaques about Dallas history—and the tall metal poles where you can hear the voices of historical figures, such as Woodie Culton, Erykah Badu and Judy Lott. Dallas; 214/670-4100, dallasparks.org

Said to host one of the largest 60 African American folk art collections in the United States, the AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM OF DALLAS is one-of-a-kind place where

kids can view art created by the Black community. As you walk through, you’ll see the photo archives from Sepia Magazine (a Fort Worth-based African American magazine that featured success stories and more), the Antonio Maceo Smith collection (which covers the Texarkana native’s career as a leader of the NAACP and other organizations), as well as the Mrs. dfwchild.com / june 2021

15

Maurine F. Bailey collection (which highlights her career as a teacher and choir conductor). Dallas; 214/5659026, aamdallas.org in vivid 61Painted colors, the

LATINO CULTURAL CENTER

promotes the development and preservation of Latino and Hispanic cultures and art. Visit the center for events—ranging from gallery exhibits and theater to dance performances and festivals—or to just take a tour. The exhibits, which feature local and regional artists, rotate every few months. Through July 24, the LCC is presenting Raul Rodriguez’s exhibition Marine Park, a photographic series centered around a Fort Worth skatepark and skateboarders.

Dallas; lcc.dallasculture.org

62

BLACK GIRL MAGIC MUSEUM,

a pop-up, interactive museum, takes you through 10 picture-snapping exhibits that celebrate the impact of Black women. One room focuses on dancers and performers; another space highlights scientists and astronauts. Mesquite; blackgirlmagicmuseum.com

MUSEUM, set in the newly restored Boone House.

The museum—named for a North Texass businesswoman, educator and granddaughter of former slaves who became a civil rights activist—displays art, artifacts and other materials. It’s all about preserving and sharing African American contributions and experiences.

Fort Worth; 817/332-6049, tarrantcountyblackhistory. org

( EDUCATION )

ENGAGED MINDS

Get smart, and not just at school

Unique Places to Learn Try something 65 different with your kids this summer

at HOUSE OF SHINE. This interactive museum (great for age 5 and up) is part experiential lab and part workspace. The goal of the museum is to help individuals discover their SHINE (strengths, hobbies, interests and irritants,

63 Visit ASIA TIMES SQUARE, a shopping

center and development, for an experience honoring Asian history and culture. You can find almost everything here.

Stop into Pearl Restaurant for delicious dim sum, grab a few traditional gifts for family and friends at one of the many boutiques, or try some products at one of the beauty and health providers. There are even grocery aisles where you can find something new to enjoy!

Grand Prairie; 972/9755100, asiatimessquare.com

64

In Fort Worth’s Historic South Side, stop by the LENORA ROLLA HERITAGE

16

MINDS

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY

needs and experiences) and what they can contribute to the world. There are storytimes, introductions to journaling or Shineworks events where crafts meet acts of kindness.

Grapevine; 817/601-8850, houseofshine.com Part retail shop 66 and part activity center, CAMP DALLAS

hosts activities such as craft making and book readings that will make a shopping trip anything but ordinary.

Dallas; 214/612-0451, camp.com/locations/dallas

Spark your child’s 67 creativity, confidence and self-esteem at

SPARK! With programs best for kids in second grade and up, this spot includes immersive, handson activities that will expand their imagination.

For example, at the Creator Studio, older kids (age 10 and up) can build, invent and innovate with the tools and computer technology.

Workshops are led by artists, engineers and others.

Dallas; 214/421-7727, sparkdallas.org

SPARK!

At 68 , you can explore NOT

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR

weird and odd realities (think authentic vampire kit and shrunken heads).

There’s also a Palace of Wax where you can get pictures taken with fake Lady Gaga, a mirror maze, a laser game and more. Grand Prairie; 972/623-2391, ripleys. com/grandprairie

Science Spots

to 69Head the

PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE

AND SCIENCE, where kids can try their hand at robotics, see a real dinosaur skeleton, virtually race top athletes and so much more.

There’s also the Moody Family Children’s Museum that’s great for kids up to age 5. And while you’re at the Perot, see The Science of Guinness World Records, an exhibit showcasing the scientific principles behind some of the most astonishing records. Dallas; 214/428-5555, perotmuseum.org

70

FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE is reopening this

monthm with new and reimagined experiences on display. Visit the 2,500 square-foot Current Science Studio, which will display a space exhibit called Science on a Sphere— a global display system developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The Children’s Museum, Noble Planetarium, DinoLabs, DinoDig and Cattle Raisers Museum will also reopen.

Fort Worth; 817/255-9300, fwmuseum.org Get your STEM 71 on with hands-on activities at SCI-TECH DISCOVERY CENTER.

Kids can learn about robotics by flying a drone, make massive bubbles and

CLUBHOUSE; COURTESY OF SPARK!; DINO: FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY

places to go / E N G A G E D

A world-class, tuition-free education is coming to the Fort Worth area New BASIS Charter School opening August 2022

» Learn more at EnrollBASIS.org

Texas Charter Schools Grades K–12

dfwchild.com / june 2021

17

OUT OF THE HEAT

learn about surface tension, or check out projects at the MakerStudio, where construction and creativity meet. Frisco; 972/546-3050, mindstretchingfun.org

play including a Southwest Airlines jet you can board, warbirds, missiles, spacecraft and other artifacts.

Dallas; 214/350-3600, flightmuseum.com

72

77

Learn about plants, seasons and more science topics at the Dallas Arboretum’s RORY MEYERS CHILDREN’S ADVENTURE GARDEN.

Kids can play and explore in a beautiful natural setting. Dallas; 214/515-6615, dallasarboretum.org

73

EXPLORIUM

Denton Children’s Museum has activities for kids of all ages, allowing them to discover math, science, technology and more. The museum offers sensory friendly hours the second Saturday of every month (9–10am; make sure to RSVP on the website).

Denton; 940/320-5444, exploriumdenton.org

Future Firefighters

Go on a journey 74 from the past to the present at the

DENTON FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM.

Take a trip through aviation history at

CAVANAUGH FLIGHT MUSEUM. Show the kid-

dos aircraft from the world wars, military trucks and armor. Addison; 972/3808800, cavflight.org Learn how an 78 airline operates and the history behind

a tour where 80Take you can see vari-

ous aircraft in the process of restoration at the VINTAGE FLYING MUSEUM. The collection includes artifacts from World War I and World War II, as well as the Korean and Vietnam wars. Fort Worth; 817/6241935, vintageflyingmuseum. org

( INDOOR PLAY )

GET OUT OF THE HEAT

American Airlines at the CR SMITH MUSEUM. Kids will enjoy flight simulators, stepping into a real cockpit and playing on an evac slide. Fort Worth; 682/2789085, crsmithmuseum.org

Enjoy the A/C while the kids have fun

79

81

Check out the outdoor aircraft “petting zoo” at the FORT

WORTH AVIATION MUSEUM. Here, you’ll see

all types of warbirds, from jets to helicopters. There are community service opportunities too—imagine washing an airplane!

Marvel at artifacts from the 1800s, a 1935 ladder truck, uniforms and other gear through the decades.

Scheduled to reopen in June. Denton; 940/3498840, cityofdenton.com Learn about 75 firefighter gear, fire safety and firefighter history at the DALLAS

FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM. You’ll see a steam engine from 1884, engines from the 1920s and other materials and firefighting equipment from over the years.

Dallas; 214/821-1500, dallasfiremuseum.com

Take Flight

76

THE FRONTIERS OF FLIGHT MUSEUM next to Love

Field has so much on dis18

Fort Worth; 855/733-8627, fortworthaviationmuseum. org

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

KIDS PLAY CO.

Play Spaces CHEEKY MONKEYS: Your cheeky

children will climb the giant play structure, hang out in the Monkey Clubhouse and slide again and again. There’s a separate toddler area. Fort Worth, Plano and Fairview; cheekymonkeys.us

82

THE KIDS PLAY CO.:

Keep kiddos busy with this center’s custom-designed playhouses and creative activities.

Richardson; 469/778-0300, thekidsplayco.com

83

EQ KIDS CLUB: Drop in for open play or attend a special event at this Collin County Play Place. EQ Kids Club also has an online shop with the most darling little T-shirts. Frisco; 469/5794926, eqkidsclub.com

84

KIDMANIA: Climb

through five levels reaching 25 feet high at this playground maze, with slides, a cave, bungee wall and a zipline. Fort Worth and Plano; 972/517-7800, kidmania.com

85

LUV2PLAY: Your

kiddos certainly will love to play at this spot, with a sprawling play structure as well as areas for babies and toddlers, games and snacks. There’s a seating area with WiFi for Mom and Dad. Grapevine; 817/508-0211, luv2play.com

86

PLAY STUDIO: Make a reservation to play at this inviting space designed for infants and kids up to age 8. Your child will make believe and mark art. Fort Worth; 817/9362865, playstudiofw.com

87

KIDS ADVENTURE PLAYHOUSE & PARTIES: Padded floor-

ing, slides, tunnels and a climbing structure with peekaboo windows: This space has plenty to wear out your little ones. Fort Worth; 817/697-4899, kidsadventureplayhouse.com

88

JUNGLE CASTLE: Go wild with make-believe areas, slides that go into a ball pit, tactile games mounted on boards, and even a velcro wall.

Flower Mound; 469/968-

( BOOK STORES )

IN THE PAGES

Is your kiddo a bookworm? There are fun places to find books and enjoy storytime other than a library.

95 MONKEY & DOG BOOKS, Fort Worth; 817/489-5747, monkeyanddogbooks.com

96 INTERABANG BOOKS, Dallas;

214/484-4289, interabangbooks.com

97 BARNES & NOBLE, Multiple locations;

barnesandnoble.com

98 HALF PRICE BOOKS, Multiple locations; hpb.com

99 LEAVES BOOK AND TEA SHOP, Fort Worth; 682/233-4832, leavesbookandteashop. com

8009, junglecastleplaycenter.com

89

PROSPER PLAYHOUSE: Your

kiddos can scale multiple levels of play at this spot, with many places they can run, slide and even hide. Purchase a snack for breaktime. Prosper; 972/292-8474, prosperplayhouse.com

90

PEPPA PIG WORLD OF

PLAY: Have oinktastic fun with 14 play areas, from Grandad Dog’s Garage to George’s Fort. Your everfaithful Peppa fan can even climb aboard Madame Gazelle’s school bus for a pretend ride. Grapevine Mills; 214/285-9110, peppapigworldofplay.com

91

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER:

Build with millions of Lego bricks, enjoy rides,

PLAYHOUSES; KIDS PLAY CO.

places to go / G E T

MOSAIC ACADEMY Partnering with Parents

We partner with parents to equip their children to love learning and enrich God’s world

Mother’s Day Out 18 mo. − Pre-K & Kindergarten − 8th Grade

www.mosaicacademy.org 1400 College Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76104

dfwchild.com / june 2021

19

send the kiddos into the Ninjago play area, see 4D shows and check out the interactive Dallas-Fort Worth cityscape (made of Legos, of course).

Grapevine; 469/444-3050, legolanddiscoverycenter.com

92

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE: Here,

kids can create and play in a world totally made up of Crayola crayons and art.

They’ll be able to make colorful crafts, solve puzzles in the Adventure Lab, name and wrap their own Crayon, learn about the Crayola factory and more.

Plano; 469/642-2901, crayolaexperience.com

93

KIDZANIA: Try out this “city built for kids” where little guests take on various responsibilities and roles, such as news anchor, nurse, construction worker or firefighter There are over 100 roles kids can try out at this 100,000-square-foot facility at Stonebriar Centre. Frisco; 214/618-0248, dallas.kidzania.com

94

WORLD

PLAY STREET MUSEUM: Get

your children’s imagination working on overdrive as they play and build social skills at one of six themed museums (The Farm, On the Go, Downtown, Great Outdoors and Town Square) across the area.

Multiple locations; playstreetmuseum.com

( OUTDOORS )

OUTSIDE WORLD

Leave behind the four walls around you Doesn’t 100 watching your kids frolic in a

meadow sound delightful? Make it happen at

CONNEMARA MEADOW NATURE PRESERVE

in Collin County. The preserve contains 72 acres of natural habitat, with diverse floral and animal life. Take a family nature walk or try a summer yoga class. There’s even an aerial yoga class for kids. Allen; 469/200-4085, connemara-

conservancy.org Located along 102 the curves of the Trinity River, RIVER LEGACY PARK is an oasis

of ecological variety. The park is a great spot for riding bikes or taking a stroll. There is also a forest-themed playground, along with picnic areas, a canoe launch station and scenic overlooks. The adjacent River Legacy Living Science Center features interactive exhibits, native animals and nature trails.

Arlington; 817/860-6752, riverlegacy.org Undeveloped 103 land less than 10 years ago,

SOUTHWEST NATURE PRESERVE is

now a perfect place for visitors to get into nature.

Cross into the preserve via a walkway and boardwalk and hit the hike and bike trail; you’ll also discover three ponds, including one with a fishing pier and terraced outdoor seating.

A high bluff will give you an outstanding look at the surrounding area and as far out as downtown Fort Worth. Arlington; 817/4595474, arlingtontx.gov You can reach 104 some of the highest points in Dallas County on the trails of

DOGWOOD CANYON AUDUBON CENTER.

You’ll have a nice view of nearby Joe Pool Lake, and on a clear day you can even see AT&T Stadium in Arlington. In the canyon, see trees, grasses, birds, insects, reptiles and more.

Cedar Hill; 469/526-1980, dogwood.audubon.org

105 FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

20

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Hike the trails at COPPELL NATURE PARK, a 66-acre area inside Wagon Wheel Park. It’s home to hawks, bobcats, coyotes and other animals (stay on the trails; go online for safety tips), and more

than 130 bird species pass through every year. You’ll also spot native vegetation, a pond and stream. The nature park’s Biodiversity Education Center offers hands-on environmental learning and has on-site Master Naturalists who can identify your trail finds.

Coppell; 972/304-3581, coppelltx.gov

106

CEDAR RIDGE

PRESERVE includes 603 acres of natural habitat near Joe Pool Lake. There are several miles of shaded hiking trails, some easy enough for families, where you can enjoy the greenery and look for wildlife. Stay on the paths—it’s required, and you’ll steer clear of poison ivy. If you come across a snake, give it a wide berth. Interested in fishing? Grab your poles for a catch-and-release excursion. Dallas; 972/7097784, audubondallas.org/ cedar-ridge-preserve

Explore 66 107 acres of gorgeous grounds at

DALLAS ARBORETUM, recognized

as one of the top botanical gardens in the nation. And as if the colorful flowers and lush plants aren’t enough, the arboretum has a variety of events this season, such as the scavenger hunt on Trivia Thursdays, Family Fun Fridays and Frozen Fridays, with treats from local vendors. You can also explore science activities and natural play spaces in the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Dallas; 214/515-6615, dallasarboretum.org

108

GREAT TRINITY FOREST GATEWAY AND HORSE TRAILS offers a

multi-purpose path around a fishing pond, prairie landscapes and native trees.

As the name suggests, if you have a horse, bring your trailer and go for

a ride on the area’s softsurface forest trail. Dallas; 214/670-4100, dallasparks. org Right in the 109 middle of urban Dallas, you’ll find

the 121-acre OAK CLIFF NATURE PRESERVE. Take your children to ride bikes or walk on the trails, spot birds and enjoy the wooded vista. For a touch of oddity, look for the artsy area, with a bicycle cemetery among the pecan trees, a spider sculpture and other random pieces.

Dallas; 972/696-9810, texaslandconservancy.org/ oak-cliff-nature-preserve

110

TRINITY RIVER AUDUBON CENTER is 10

miles south of downtown Dallas but is another spot that will make you feel far from the city. It’s considered the gateway to the 6,000-acre Great Trinity Forest, the biggest urban hardwood forest in the nation. The center includes diverse habitats, hiking trails and—of course—stellar birdwatching. Dallas; 214/309-5801, trinityriver. audubon.org

111

The everlovely FORT WORTH

LEGO EXHIBIT: FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN; ZIP LINE: GO APE

places to go / O U T S I D E

walk (age 10 and up) and a guided nature walk for those in the special needs community, both in June.

Lewisville; 469/635-5483, llela.org There’s a lot 116 to see and do at ELMER W. OLIVER NATURE PARK. Climb

GO APE

BOTANIC GARDEN

has partnered with the

BOTANICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF TEXAS to

create even more opportunities to enjoy blooming beauty and learn about botany and natural history. Explore the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, Rock Springs Woods, Native Texas Boardwalk, Rainforest Conservatory and other areas. You’ll also find special exhibits and events this summer, including larger-than-life Lego sculptures and the Little Sprouts Book & Garden Club. Fort Worth; 817/463-4160, brit.org a step 112Take back in time at

BOY ZIPLINER: TRINITY FORREST ADVETURE PARK

FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER & REFUGE. The

forests, wetland and prairies will give you a sense of what Dallas-Fort Worth looked like before all the highways, buildings and houses. The center covers 3,621 acres and includes 20 miles of hiking trails as well as a canoe launch point.

Visit the interpretive center to learn more about the refuge’s plants and animals (including a bison herd!).

Fort Worth; 817/392-7410, fwnaturecenter.org into 113Head the forest at

SPRING CREEK FOREST PRESERVE, where you can

meander paved or natural surface trails as a family.

In addition to the wooded areas, there is prairie acreage and a flowing creek.

And the wildlife! Birds, fish, lizards, armadillos and other creatures (over 650 species altogether) make their homes at Spring Creek Forest preserve.

Garland; 972/205-2750, garlandtx.gov a stroll 114Take through the

GRAPEVINE BOTANICAL GARDENS at Heritage

Park. It may not be as vast as the other botanic gardens in Dallas-Fort Worth, but it has pretty blossoms, flourishing plants, a koi pond and more—quite perfect for a walk or family photos.

Grapevine; 817/410-3122, gograpevine.com/listing/ botanicalgardens

115

LEWISVILLE LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING AREA (LLELA) is like a

2,600-acre natural science classroom with prairie land, forests and wetlands. Hike the trails and paddle in Beaver Pond; you can also enjoy one of the guided activities planned for the summer—including a bird

into the tree canopy via the treehouse, gaze out from the Rocky Ford overlook, fish the ponds, and hike the crushed granite trail.

Kiddos will especially enjoy the app-based GooseChase scavenger hunt hike. Go online to find classes, programs and special events.

Mansfield; 817/473-1943, mansfieldtexas.gov the trails 117Explore of the HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, see native

plants and animals, dig for fossils, play in the pioneer village—this is a great spot to help children appreciate the world around them.

Take older kids (age 10 and up, and at least 75 pounds) to a summer Zip Line Day. McKinney; 972/562-5566, heardmuseum.org

118

Beauty abounds at ARBOR

HILLS NATURE PRESERVE, a 200-acre park.

Walk or bike the peaceful trails, surrounded by natural landscapes. Stay on the paths to keep clear of poison ivy, chiggers and other critters. Head to the observation tower for an expansive view. Plano; 972/941-7250, plano.gov around 119The landis highly

SPRING CREEK NATURE AREA

developed, but the park itself is just as nature intended. Walk a wooded, winding trail and relish the view of Spring Creek.

You can also have a picnic and play a game in the horseshoe pit. The trail

here links up with Richardson’s Galatyn Woodland Preserve. Richardson; 972/744-4300, cor.net Immerse yourself in the 120 Cross Timbers ecosystem at BOB JONES NATURE CENTER & PRESERVE. The center is nestled in more than 700 acres of natural habitat, with nearly 700 species of plants and animals. Watch for animal tracks on trails. Southlake; 817/748-8019, experiencesouthlaketexas.com

121At 800 acres,

park. Take a family walk on paved trails or soft surface trails along Rowlett Creek (watch out for animals, and put on your bug spray), fish or use the pond for kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding. You can also keep the preserve nice for visitors as well as the wildlife that lives there by volunteering for a clean-up day. Plano; 972/941-7250, plano.gov

TRAIL

SANTA FE

White Rock Lake to Deep Ellum, Fair Park and downtown Dallas. There are multiple parks along the trail for a stop. Dallas; friendsofsantafetrail.org

Gather your 125 buckaroos and head to the

takes you to a stand of Texas Buckeye trees and a nice river view. There’s also a newer concrete trail, with large boulders as well as an old-growth tree canopy, that leads to an overlook point. Dallas; 214/6719500, trinityrivercorridor. com/recreation/texasbuckeye-trail The nearly 126 10-mile loop around

WHITE ROCK LAKE is a haven for anyone

seeking some exercise and pretty scenery. With little kids, go for the familyfriendly section of trail on the West Lawther Drive side of the water. The side of the lake near Garland Road and the spillway is popular with serious walkers, runners and cyclists. Dallas; 214/660-1100, whiterocklake.org

More Trails You’ll Love

Walk, jog or 122 ride the historic KATY TRAIL, built

on an old railroad line. Landscaped paths, lighting, benches, fountains, signage and restaurants (on the trail or close by) make this an easy choice for your day out. Dallas; 214/303-1180, katytraildallas.org PIEDMONT RIDGE TRAIL

Walk the paved 124 , which connects

TEXAS BUCKEYE TRAIL. The journey

OAK CREEK PARK & NATURE PRESERVE is Plano’s largest

mile-or-so 123Thetakes you

but the trail is easy to follow once you’re there. Hikers get to see the treetops and even the Dallas skyline.

Benches provide a spot for a stop. Dallas; alltrails.com

Fort Worth’s 127comprise more TRAILS

on some scenic ups and downs. The trailhead is a bit hidden away (it’s near Keeton Park Golf Course),

TRINITY

than 100 miles of trails along the Trinity River, crisscrossing 31 neighborhoods and 21 parks. For extra fun, take on the Geocaching Adventure. Fort Worth; trinitytrailsfw.com

dfwchild.com / june 2021

21

WORLD

SPARK!

run. Dallas; 214/391-1000, trinitytreetops.com

133

Take a treetop adventure at GO APE in the canopy at Oak Point Park in Plano.

The experience—including tree-to-tree crossings, extra-long zip lines and Tarzan-style swings—is open to age 10 and up.

Plano; 800/971-8271, goape. com/location/texas-plano

134

If your kiddo weighs in at least 50 pounds, you can have high-flying fun at ZIP LOST PINES outside of Austin.

Zip line under the stars during a nighttime tour.

Cedar Creek; 512/761-2323, ziplostpines.com

135 128

Rocky red bluffs are striking against the blue waters of Lake Grapevine on NORTHSHORE TRAIL. Keep your phone in your pocket for a nice family pic—the view is really something. The trail starts at Rockledge Park and ends at Twin Coves Park.

Grapevine and Flower Mound; 817/454-1058, lake-grapevine.com/northshore-trail

Wind your way 129 through parks and nature settings in the heart of Keller along BIG

BEAR CREEK GREENBELT TRAIL. The full trail

is more than 5 miles long; consider stopping at Bear Creek Park, which has two play sets and other amenities. Keller; 817/743-4050, cityofkeller.com/services/ parks-recreation Summer is 130 prime time to enjoy the

CRAPE MYRTLE

TRAILS of McKinney.

While the beautiful blooms can be found throughout the city, head 22

to World Collection Park for wide, paved pathways and benches where you can enjoy different types of the flowering trees, plus picnic tables, informative signs and a sundial.

McKinney; 972/547-7480, mckinneytexas.org/910/ crape-myrtle-trails a more 131For primitive hiking or biking experience, try the trails at SISTER GROVE PARK in Collin County. You’ll journey in the wild—the forest areas may be dense, and animals and insects populate this area near Lake Lavon. Near Princeton and Farmersville; lake-lavon.com/sistergrove-park

Zip Line Adventures

132

Dallas’ TRIN-

ITY FOREST ADVENTURE PARK has

a course for (almost) everyone, from Out a Limb, for age 4 and up, to black courses—the hardest level, color-coded like a ski

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

LAKE TRAVIS ZIPLINE ADVENTURES bills itself as

the longest and fastest zip line in Texas. To take a ride ( MUSEUMS )

MORE ROOM TO PLAY

CHILDREN’S MUSEUMS

Did you know some of the museums around Dallas-Fort Worth have solid kid’s play areas?

For example, kids can have some play time while they learn and explore at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science’s MOODY

FAMILY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

(Dallas; 214/428-5555, perotmuseum.org), the

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM at Fort Worth

Museum of Science and History, EXPLORIUM DENTON, the DAL-

LAS MUSEUM OF ART and the soon-tobe-reopened STUDIO A at The Kimbell (Fort Worth, 817/332-8451; kimbellart.org).

at this Austin-area park, you must weigh at least 70 pounds. Leander; 512/6141996, ziplaketravis.com There’s also a 136 70-pound minimum for zip line fliers at RUGARU ADVENTURES

in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.

Travel through the forest canopy and over Broken Bow Lake. Broken Bow, Oklahoma; 580/494-2947, rugaruadventures.com

Go Fish

some fish137Get ing time in at , CEDAR HILL STATE PARK

which sits on the shores of JOE POOL LAKE. The 7,500-square-foot lake contains largemouth black bass, catfish and crappie.

Cedar Hill State Park also has a perch pond for kids.

Cedar Hill; 972/291-3900, tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ cedar-hill

the fishing 138Try pond at , WILLIAM BLAIR JR. PARK

which occupies 900 acres not far from Fair Park. The fishing pond is part of the park’s front section, which also includes a pavilion and picnic areas. If you’re not tired out after fishing, head to the back portion of the park for natural surface hiking. Dallas; 214/6704100, dallasparks.org

south pond 139The at in Denton is SOUTH LAKES PARK

regularly stocked with fish that are fun and fairly easy to catch as part of Texas Parks & Wildlife’s Neighborhood Fishin’ program.

Texas Parks & Wildlife requires anglers 17 and up to have a license; kids fish for free.Denton; 940/3497275, cityofdenton.com

Duncanville’s 140 is also part of the LAKESIDE

PARK

Neighborhood Fishin’ program. The lake is stocked

with fish every two to four weeks during summer.

Email pictures of your catch to Duncanville Parks & Rec (parksandrec@duncanville.com)—your images could be shared online.

Duncanville; 972/780-4972, duncanville.com/departments/parks-recreation There’s good 141 fishing yearround at

GREENBRIAR PARK lake in Fort Worth.

This is another park that’s part of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Neighborhood Fishin’ program. Reel in channel catfish, bluegill sunfish, green sunfish and largemouth bass. Fort Worth; fortworthtexas.gov/ departments/parks

142

TARRANT REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT

constructed a fishing pier close to the Fort Worth Zoo and Texas Christian University. The pier is near Woodshed Smokehouse off the Trinity Trail. Fort Worth; fortworth.com/blog/ post/urban-fishing-in-fortworth-texas You’ll find a 143 nice fishing cove on the southern end

of Lake Grapevine. Occupy a quiet spot along the banks at MCPHERSON SLOUGH or take advantage of the public pier.

Grapevine; 817/410-3450, gograpevine.com/listing/ mcpherson-slough

Here’s one 144 more Texas Parks & Wildlife Neigh-

borhood Fishin’ site. The CHISHOLM PARK pond is regularly stocked with catfish during the summer. There’s great access from the bank. Feed the ducks while you’re there and enjoy park amenities, including pavilions, playgrounds and an aquatics center. Hurst; 817/788-7220, tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish

COURTESY OF SPARK!

places to go / O U T S I D E

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places to go / D E L E C T A B L E LEWISVILLE FISHING BARGE

fish, bass, crappie, carp and buffalo fish from Lake Lewisville. You can fish indoors (hello, A/C) or outdoors.

Lewisville; 972/436-9341, lewisvillefishingbarge.com

146

RUSSELL CREEK PARK

in Plano offers solid fishing, especially considering the smaller size of the lake. If the kids get restless, leave the pier for the playground.

Plano; 972/941-7250, plano. gov/1489/russell-creek-park

147

CARUTH PARK is one

of the largest parks in University Park. (That’s a lot of parks in one sentence!)

Your crew will have fun on the playgrounds and having a picnic, but Caruth Park is also great for children’s fishing. The pond is swimming with bluegill, catfish and bass. There’s also a lighted floating fountain and stone bridges.

University Park; 214/9875488, uptexas.org/government/parks-recreation

this spot is where most of the biggest bass in Texas have been caught. Come here with a child who is passionate about fishing.

Pro tip: If you want to go out on a boat, hire a guide to make sure you don’t hit any stumps. Quitman; lakeforktexas.com

Underground Explorations

Head for the 150 Hill Country to reach LONGHORN CAVERN STATE PARK.

This cave was created by the movement and pressure of an ancient river. Guests of any age can take the walking tour, while you must be at least 8 to take the primitive wild cave tour. Burnet; 512/7159000, visitlonghorncavern. com

151

located in Georgetown, was hidden for some 10,000 years—so it’s one of the most well-preserved caves in the state. There’s

Want to 148 combine your fishing outing with a mini

road trip? Take a drive to the TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHERIES CENTER, about 25 minutes south of Canton. Yes, you can fish— and much more. Peruse the visitor center to learn more about conservation and sport fishing. Take in a dive show in the theater before hopping on the tram that will take you to the hatchery pond, then walk on the wetlands trail. The fishing here is kid-friendly; the center will even provide poles and bait. Athens; 903/676-2277, tpwd.texas. gov/tffc

For bass 149 fishing, you can’t do much better than LAKE FORK. Less than two hours east of Dallas, 24

INNER SPACE CAVERN,

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

no minimum age for the basic adventure tour; the hidden passage tour requires participants to be at least 7. If you’re in great physical condition, don’t mind crawling on your belly and are at least 13, consider the wild cave tour.

Georgetown; 512/931-2283, innerspacecavern.com

152

WONDER WORLD CAVE & ADVENTURE PARK gives families the

National Park, you’ll find the CAVERNS OF SONORA. Tour richly decorative passages that extend 155 feet below the surface. Kids will also have fun in the underground classroom (where they can dig for fossils and view a slideshow) and panning for gems. For the more adventurous, try the off-trail passageway tour. Sonora; 325/387-3105, cavernsofsonora.com

opportunity to explore the first show cave in Texas (the only true earthquake-formed cave in the nation)—then exit the cave via the Stratavator and travel 190 feet into the air to the observation tower. You can also ride a train through a waterfall on your way into the Texas Wildlife Petting Park, and enter the convoluted world of the Antigravity House.

San Marcos; 512/392-3760, wonderworldpark.com

Trek through 154 a limestone crevice and down a 100-

Halfway 153 between San Antonio and Big Bend

155

foot staircase into a verdant canyon at WESTCAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER in the Austin

area. Then you’ll continue to a 40-foot waterfall that spills into a grotto pool and see the single-chamber cave. Kiddos are welcome as long as they are up for the walk.Southwest Travis County; 830/825-3442, westcave.org Bottomless cave lakes and stunning formations await

you at Arkansas’ COSMIC CAVERN. Between Eureka Springs and Branson, Missouri, this cave offers standard tours open to families; the after-hours wild cave tours are for age 16 and up. Buy a bag of panning dirt in the gift shop and let the kids search for gems. Arkansas; 870/749-2298, cosmiccavern.com into 156Venture onetime

hideout of Jesse James and Belle Star at ROBBERS CAVE STATE PARK in Oklahoma. Follow the Robbers Cave Nature Trail for amazing sights inside the cave and from the rocky surroundings before heading back to your campsite or cabin.Wilburton, Oklahoma; 918/4652562, travelok.com

( FOOD )

DELECTABLE SUMMER

The tastiest way to spend a day

DALLAS FARMERS MARKET ( FOSSIL DIG )

FINDERS KEEPERS 157 Have a kiddo intrigued by paleontology? Go to MINERAL

WELLS FOSSIL PARK

for the opportunity

to conduct your own dig. You could find a real-life fossil that’s hundreds of millions of years old! And if you find it, you keep it. Visit the website to see pics of some of the fossils unearthed there. Be aware that the park is pretty primitive. But we’re guessing die-hard fossil fans won’t be deterred.Mineral Wells; 940/328-7803, mineralwellsfossilpark.com

DALLAS FARMERS MARKET: KEVIN HUNTER MARPLE

at 145Cast a linefor cat-

SUMMER

Pick your own fruits and veg158 gies at in Collin County. The farm grows everything PURE LAND FARM

from muskmelons and cherry tomatoes to hot peppers and cucumbers. A late freeze means the farm will have a rolling start to this season; head to the website for more details and info on what’s available to pick when you’re ready to go. McKinney; purelandorganic.com

Interested in visiting a dairy 159 farm? is the place for you. The family-owned property LAVON FARMS

has a small group of cows on-site that produce raw milk that is sold in the farm store, along with other dairy products. Plano; 972/423-8080, lavonfarms.com

Blueberry season is here at 160 in Rockwall. The farmers announced they BLASE FAMILY FARM

were planting hundreds more blueberry bushes, so fingers crossed for a bountiful crop! The season generally runs through early July; check the website for updates.

You might have so much fun picking blueberries that you’ll come back for the pumpkin farm in the fall. Rockwall; 972/772-3645, blasefamilyfarm.com

The berry crop is ready and 161 waiting at the .

Head a few hours east, give or take, GREER FARM

to this bucolic spot and find beautiful blackberries and blueberries. You can also purchase other home-grown products and see the farm’s animals. Make a minivacation out of it and stay in one of the farm’s cabins. Daingerfield; 903/645-3232, greerfarm.com

162

BLUEBERRY HILL FARMS

reports that the majority of its crop made it through the February snowstorm unscathed. The Van Zandt County farm, about 25 minutes southeast of Canton, is ready to welcome berry pickers in June and July. Edom; 903/852-6175, blueberryhillfarms.com

163

Head over to WOW U-PICK FARMS in Denton County to pick fruits and veggies including strawberries, bib lettuce, red sail lettuce, cilantro and radishes. The farm also sells bell pepper jam. Krum; 940/312-9889, facebook.com/wowupickfarm

164

Tarrant County’s STORM FARMS grows strawberries and more. The farm is open for picking by reservation only. While all available spots are currently taken, go online to be added to the waitlist. Arlington; 817/602-0668, storm.farm

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places to go / H I S T O R Y crafted items. Listen to live music while you peruse the vendors in the Town Square Gazebo area in the city’s historic downtown. Grapevine; search on grapevinetexasusa.com Local grass-fed 171 beef, free-range chicken, eggs, tamales,

pastries, teas, jerky … you’ll find a plethora of delicious offerings at the MCKINNEY FARMER’S MARKET AT CHESTNUT SQUARE.

STEEL CITY POPS

Farmers Markets

Spend a 165 Saturday in Old Town Coppell with

the COPPELL FARMERS MARKET. Take your pick of fresh fruits and veggies, meats, honey, dairy items, breads, jams, chocolates and other tasty offerings.

You can also get flower bouquets, fruit trees and landscaping plants.Coppell; coppellfarmersmarket.org

166Shop the

FARMERS MARKET AT BONTON FARMS—an urban farm,

market, café and coffee house that’s building community in South Dallas— for everything from fresh eggs, blueberry jam and honey butter to roasted chile sauce and pasta. You’ll also find candles, soap and more. Dallas; 972/9822245, bontonfarms.shop

167

Head over to

DALLAS FARMERS MARKET

for fresh goods sold in an open-air setting, and so much more. The market at The Shed offers a variety of regional vendors selling 26

bratwurst, beef, jellies, broccoli, wines, shampoo bars, dog bones and endless other options. You’ll also find boutiques and restaurants. Dallas; 214/664-9110, dallasfarmersmarket.org

168

Adjacent to the Shops at Clearfork, you’ll find the

CLEARFORK FARMERS MARKET, featuring more

than two dozen farmers, ranchers and artisans selling their locally grown products and other wares.

Pick up fresh breads and pastries, sweet honey, crisp veggies and prickly cacti, among other choices.

Farmers Market, Fort Worth; farmersmarket1848. com Everything is 169 grown within 150 miles of Cowtown at

the COWTOWN FARMERS MARKET. You’ll also love the local artisans who craft their goods with local materials. Fort Worth; cowtownmarket.com

170Visit the

GRAPEVINE FARMERS AND ARTISAN MARKET for a mix

of Texas-grown produce, baked goods and hand-

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

There’s also an array of arts and crafts vendors selling goods such as walking sticks and jewelry, plus pony rides, face painting and live music.

McKinney; 972/562-8790, chestnutsquare.org/farmersmarket-mckinney

Not-YourAverage Treats

Can’t ever decide 172 on a single ice cream flavor? Then it’s off

to BALDO’S ICE CREAM AND COFFEE. The Park Cities favorite sells flights of mini waffle cones—in flavors such as Oreo Cookie Dough, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Shortcake and Cha Cha Matcha. Or choose a flavor and drown it in a shot of espresso, if the kids kept you up too late last

( SODA )

A RETRO TREAT

Grab a seat at the counter and order up something sweet at one of these charming soda fountains.

184 DOUGHERTY’S PHARMACY recently

opened a soda fountain at its Preston Valley location. Sip on a fizzy soda or a fancy milkshake, float, malt or sundae while waiting for your grilled cheese or grilled PB&J (really!). Dallas Preston Valley; 214/373-5300, doughertys.com/giftshop-soda-fountain

night. Dallas; 972/9134001, baldosdallas.com

Rockwall. Multiple locations; chills360.com

173

At 176 , liquid nitrogen is used to turn

Sure, you can pick up a box of popsicles at the grocery store. Or you can go to STEEL CITY POPS for gourmet flavors (Arnold Palmer, Blood Orange, Strawberry Lemonade, Cookies and Cream, and Coffee are just some of your choices), dipped, drizzled and dusted according to your specifications. Dallas, Fort Worth, Southlake; steelcitypops.com

174

Here’s another popsicle spot with some atypical flavors.

Grapevine’s Main Street is home to HIPPOP, which offers Cap’n Crunch, Toasted Marshmallow, Cucumber Mojito and Key Lime Pie pops, among others. You can also get shaved ice or a slush. Grapevine; 817/527-4383, hippoptx.com

175

Who says ice cream has to come in a scoop? CHILLS 360 serves up Thaiinspired rolls of ice cream, made before your eyes in a matter of minutes. Visit a shop in Dallas, Fort Worth, Little Elm, Prosper or

DOUGHERTY’S PHARMACY

CREAMISTRY

liquid into ice cream right in front of you. You can choose from dairy, vegan or fruit sorbet bases and endless mix-ins. Wait for the fog to clear to see your dessert! Head to Addison, Fort Worth, Las Colinas, Dallas, Southlake or The Colony for your Creamistry fix. Multiple locations; creamistry.com

Soft serve with 177 a twist! That’s what you’ll get at

COW TIPPING CREAMERY. Order a

stacker (a sundae with your toppings layered through the soft serve) in flavors such as Reese’s Witha’spoon and Gimme S’more, or create your own mixture.

Fort Worth, Frisco; cowtippingcreamery.com a snow 178Craving cone?

SNO GOURMET SHAVED ICE will take care of you.

Choose from sweet, sour and spicy flavors, and even add soft-serve ice cream or toppings. You can go to Sno’s store or pick up one of its cones at Dallas Farmers

Market. Dallas; 214/2655550, search on facebook. com or in the directory at dallasfarmersmarket.org If you like 180 snow cones, and you like ice cream,

you’ll love SNOWBABY. This Lakewood-area shop, owned by a local mama, serves up desserts that are like a combination of your favorite frozen sweets. Try Pure Vanilla, Fresh Strawberry, Creamy Organic Coconut, White Rock Coffee, Purple Berry Blast and more, with your choice of toppings. You can also try Bubble Waffles. Mmmm!

Dallas; 214/843-1193, snowbabyice.com

Since we can’t 181 get enough of waffles, head over to

SNO TEA In Collin County for

Waffle Pops. Get a warm and crispy waffle on a stick with M&M’s, sprinkles, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and more toppings. Need something cold? You’ll also find Sno Ice—frozen blocks of ice sliced into thin, ribbony layers, giving you a snow-like texture in the 15+ flavors. Plano; 469/726-2770, snotea.net

POPS: COURTESY OF STEEL CITY POPS; MILKSHAKE: DOUGHERTY’S PHARMACY; PIONEER: LOG CABIN VILLAGE; HOUSE: NASH FRMS

182

They always say not to eat cookie dough—but you can at DALLAS COOKIE DOUGH COMPANY. The shop serves up edible cookie dough like it’s ice cream. Get scoops of flavors including chocolate chip, S’mores Please, Nutella Wipe Out and Brownie Batter Up. You can also get chocolate-dipped dough bites, dough sundaes and dough cakes. Call for gluten-free and vegan options.. Dallas; 214/2544445, facebook.com/dallascookiedoughco

183

Need your edible cookie dough fix in Tarrant County? Head to DOUGHLICIOUS on Grapevine’s

Main Street. Get a cup or a cone, or even a milkshake, in one of the day’s 10 dough flavors, from the traditional to the unexpected. Glutenfree dough is available.

Grapevine; 817/329-5441, doughlicioususa.com

( HISTORY )

TEXAS HISTORY LESSONS

Big in size and in history, there’s lots of locales to learn about The Lone Star State KICK OFF THE SUMMER with historical outings that will inspire and educate. Whether your playmate is drawn to Little House on the Prairie or likes to establish law and order in the household, we’ve mapped out the best spots for helping them develop an appreciation for the Lone Star State. Be sure to call ahead or check the website as most places are still operating on an adjusted schedule due to health and safety concerns.

185

For an interactive settler experience, visit DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE

in the Cedars neighborhood. Count the roaming chickens as you stroll past original Victorian homes and buildings, and get a taste of what early Dallas life was like over 100 years ago. Dallas; 214/421-5141, dallasheritagevillage.org Texas counts 186 at least three presidents as their own.

Learn about the latest Texan in the White House at the GEORGE W. BUSH PRESIDENTIAL CENTER on SMU’s campus.

Currently on display is “Out of Many, One,” an exhibit that displays the portraits and stories of immigrants painted by the

LOG CABIN VILLAGE

former president. After you explore the gallery and special exhibit(s), take a walk through the 15-acre Native Texas Park. Dallas; 214/200-4300, bushcenter.org

187 Best suited for older children,

THE SIXTH FLOOR MUSEUM AT DEALEY PLAZA is cen-

tered around the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy, and particularly the events surrounding the tragic day in November that changed our nation, and city, forever. See news footage, artifacts and the infamous window at this not-to-miss landmarked museum. Dallas; 214/7476660, jfk.org

188

Having just celebrated its 175th birthday, Denton County is rich with Texas history. You can visit one, two or all three of the county’s museums located conveniently in downtown Denton. Your child will enjoy making their own quilt square and visiting the vintage grocery store exhibit at the COURTHOUSE-ONTHE-SQUARE MUSEUM. Maybe they’ll even pick

up some useful skills that you can leverage on your next Central Market run.

Denton; 940/349-2850, dentoncounty.gov/289/ History-Culture

189 Before

President Kennedy headed to Dallas, he made an impromptu speech on the front steps of what is now the Hilton Fort Worth. To see how the city of Fort Worth memorialize that speech and day, visit the JOHN F. KENNEDY TRIBUTE

in downtown’s General Worth Square. Fort Worth; fortworth.com

190

Explore a new (old)

frontier at LOG CABIN VILLAGE, a living history museum in Fort Worth where your 21st century kid can step back in time to the days of bonnets and wagons. Historical interpreters are available to answer any question about pioneer life as you meander through the village. Add a Time Traveler bag filled with goodies from days past and your little one will see how the west was

fun. Fort Worth; 817/3925881, logcabinvillage.org

191

Party like it’s 1899 at NASH FARMS in Grapevine, the oldest intact farmstead in Tarrant County. Kids can experience life on the farm and the importance of survival through water and food sources. You may never hear them complain about their chores ever again! Grapevine; 817/4103185, grapevinetexasusa. com/nash-farm/

Head south to 192 Waco’s original tourist destination, the

TEXAS RANGER HALL OF FAME. After you explain

that it’s not a baseball museum, your little ranger will walk away with a better understanding of our state’s history and the symbol of safety and service that a Ranger represents. If they behave, you can pop over to Magnolia Bakery for a sweet treat since you were thinking about it anyway. Waco; 254/750-8631, texasranger.org

( TRAIN RIDES )

CHUGGING ALONG

Ride the rails to see a different view of Texas

dfwchild.com / june 2021

27

Spending time 193 in the Hill Country?

THE AUSTIN STEAM TRAIN has dif-

ferent cars suitable for various ages so you know you’ll be in a familyfriendly environment.

Cedar Park; 512/402-3830, austinsteamtrain.org

194

Don’t forget the MCKIN-

NEY AVENUE TRANSIT AUTHORITY , home of

the M-Line Trolley! One of the most fun aspects of the trolley is you can request your own stop, you don’t have to wait for a designated place on the route. Each car has a bell, or string that rings a bell, that you can ring to let the driver know you want off. (But don’t worry, there are 42 designated stops anyway.) The trolley goes all around the uptown and downtown areas of Dallas, so it’s a great option to see some of the buildings and atmosphere. Dallas; 214/855-0006, mata.org Known for 195 mainly being a commuter train, the

TRINITY RAILWAY EXPRESS

will still be a fun outing if you have a train fanatic in the family. The TRE connects Dallas and Fort Worth allowing a fun, family day trip to either city. Dallas; 214/979-1111; Fort Worth; 817/215-8600, trinityrailwayexpress.org

WORLD

Did you know 196 there’s a train you can ride in Denton?

The A-TRAIN, while typically a commuter train, is a 21-mile rail line that connects Denton and Dallas counties (as part of the Denton County Transit Authority). This train is a great option if you want to spend some time at Lewisville Lake before getting back on the train to go home. Denton; 490/2430077, dcta.net/a-train

197

Take a quick ride on the

FOREST PARK MINIATURE RAILROAD. This

“pint-size locomotive” is a 5-mile trek that goes to and from Trinity Park.

Check the Facebook page for updates on closures due to maintenance or weather.

Fort Worth; 817/336-3328, forestparktrains.com While hanging 198 out in Fort Worth, hop aboard the

TRINITY METRO TEXRAIL. See more of Tarrant County as you go from central Fort Worth to North Richland Hills to Grapevine. Fort Worth; 817/215-8600, ridetrinitymetro.org

Worth Stockyards. The train usually has some fun events planned, so check the website for more information. This summer, consider joining the railroad for a Father’s Day excursion. Grapevine; 817/410-3185, grapevinetexasusa.com

200

On the HIS-

TORICAL JEFFERSON RAILWAY,

this 40-minute train route takes you through the woods and wetlands (where you might even stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit to see feeding of live alligators). Jefferson; 866/3982038, diamonddonempire. com The 201 , which goes between ROAD

TEXAS STATE RAIL-

Rusk and Palestine, is a historic railroad that was built by inmates in 1883. Aboard the train, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you view the beautiful piney woods of East Texas.

Rusk and Palestine Depots; 855/632-7729, texasstaterailroad.net

Arlington; 817/640-8900, sixflags.com/hurricaneharbortexas

204

HAWAIIAN FALLS Mul-

tiple locations; hfalls.com

205

NRH20

North Richland Hills; 817/427-6500, nrh20.com

206

SPLASH DAYZ White

Settlement; 817/246-2204, splashdayzws.com

207

WATER WORKS

PARK Denton; 940/3498800, dentonwaterworks. com

Stand Out Water Parks

208 While you can have a

( WATER )

WATER WORLD

Jump on in this summer

GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD will take

202

you from downtown Grapevine to the Fort

HURRICANE HARBOR

staycation here if you want, there are also day passes available for the GREAT WOLF LODGE indoor water park. The day pass includes all-day fun, free life jackets and free passes for kids age 2 and younger.

Grapevine; 800/693-9653, greatwolf.com

Probably the 199 most wellknown train ride in Dallas-Fort Worth, the

203

BAHAMA BEACH Dal-

las; 214/671-0820, bahamabeachdallas.com FOREST PARK MINIATURE TRAIN

Head over HYDROUS WAKE PARK. There are two locations where they can do just that! There’s also an aqua park they’ll enjoy—think on-the-water bounce house. Allen; 214/390-3088; Little Elm; 214/310-1105, hydrouswakeparks.com

213

WHOA ZONE is one-of-a-kind.

As an inflatable, over-thewater obstacle course— how can that not be fun?

There’s a zone designated for kids ages 4–6, as well as a zone for kids over age 7.

Grapevine; 866/946-2966, whoa.zone/grapevine

209

With a massive 214 outdoor pool and lazy river,

Jump into 210 a spring-fed lake

open to hotel guests, so why not make a weekend of it? Other features include a lagoon, a water playhouse, a lazy river and more. Grapevine; 1-877/778-1000, marriott. com/grapevine

Indoor Waterpark is open year-round but still a fun place to beat the heat this summer. Grand Prairie; 972/337-3131, epicwatersgp. com

LAKE,

BURGERS

with sandy beaches, slides, diving boards and more just west of downtown Fort Worth. It’s a familyfriendly spot to spend the day, complete with a picnic.

Fort Worth; 817/737-3414, burgerslake.com

the TEXAS POOL in Plano!

The pool is open through

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Have some kid212 dos who are itching to learn to wakeboard?

EPIC WATERS

Want to jump into 211 a pool shaped like our great state? You can at

28

Labor Day and has membership options as well as options for guests.

And the pool has multiple depths for all ages. The “South Texas” portion is a shallow spot for small kids, the “Panhandle” gets deep (10 feet) and there’s about 3- to 4-feet of water from El Paso to Houston.

Plano; 972/881-8392, texaspool.org

PARADISE SPRINGS AT THE GAYLORD TEXAN is only

Planning a sum215 mer staycation in Dallas at the Hilton Anatole? Make sure to spend some time at JADE WATERS RESORT POOL

that includes a lazy river, slides, splash and play area for kids and more.

Jade Waters is exclusively for hotel guests. Dallas; 214/748-1200, hiltonanatole.com/pools

FOREST PARK TRAIN: COURTESY OF FWMSH

places to go / W A T E R

We make ABA therapy fun all year long!

Bring your family this summer for an artful experience!

Whether it’s Summer Camp at The Behavior Exchange or our fall and spring semesters, our hives are buzzing with hope for children with autism and other developmental concerns.

Our unique brand of expert ABA therapy combines individualized treatment plans with an engaging curriculum designed exclusively by our very own BCBAs. Add in our safe, colorful learning environments and you’ve got a recipe for success that has brought meaningful change into the lives of children and their families for more than 20 years.

• One-on-One Therapy • Social Skills Group, • B.E.E.S. (our early start program) • Parent Training • And more!

Wangechi Mutu The Seated III, 2019 Bronze 82 7/8 × 37 3/4 × 33 3/4 inches © Wangechi Mutu

All are available and covered by insurance in most cases.

Call us today!

972.312.8733

enroll@behaviorexchange.com

behaviorexchange.com

Plano | Frisco | Boulder

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth 3200 Darnell Street Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817.738.9215

Follow the Modern

dfwchild.com / june 2021

29

WORLD DLING COMPANY. With two instructors available to learn from, you’ll be able to move around the water with your watercraft life a pro. Walk-ups are welcome, but reservations help due to limited boat availability.

Arlington; 214/478-7856, adventuresunlimitedpaddling.com

221, you can grab

With LONESTAR

SPORTS

FORT WORTH WATER GARDENS

Paddling Places

Go paddleboard216 ing or kayaking with With DFW SURF.

three locations to choose from (Grapevine Lake, Little Elm Beach and Hidden Cove Park), this should be definitely be on your summer hit list. Check your preferred location for details. Grapevine, Frisco, Little Elm; 972/427-4082, dfwsurf.com

your started. Fishing is also available during the adventures; just make sure anyone over age 17 has a valid fishing license. Have your own kayak or canoe?

You’re welcome to bring it or rent one from the company. Trinity River Kayak Co. also recommends that kids under the age of 8 not paddle their own kayak or canoe and instead ride tandem with a parent.

Coppell; 214/513-0649, trinityriverkayak.com

Canoe, kayak 217 and hangout on a SUP board in down-

out what 219Check the Great Trinity

BACKWOODS PADDLESPORTS. Know before you

ITY RIVER EXPEDITIONS.

town Fort Worth with

go: Kids must be at least 30 pounds to fit into the smallest life jacket. You can bring your own, but it must by type III Coast Guard approved. Fort Worth; 817/470-2613, backwoodspaddlesports.com

Forest has to offer as you kayak or canoe with TRIN-

Take a self-guided tour (guided trips are suspended for the time being) and kids of all ages are welcome, life jackets are available for kids under 30 pounds. Dallas; 214/941-1757, canoedallas. com

a Take a river trip 220Make reservation to 218 on the Elm Fork go paddleboarding, kayakof the Trinity River with TRINITY RIVER KAYAK CO. All trips include a

paddle orientation to get 30

ing or canoeing on Lake Arlington with ADVEN-

TURES UNLIMITED PAD-

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

ADVENTURE

a single or double kayak or a paddleboard and get moving on Grapevine Lake.

Bonus: Loved kayaking with Lonestar? It’s open yearround if you want to try out your paddling skills during other seasons. Grapevine; 214/724-8311, lonestaradventuresports.com

222

Stop by the SUP shack in Las Colinas to rent a paddleboard or a kayak from SUP NORTH TEXAS where you can paddle around Lake Caroyln. Lessons are available or you can rent a boat and do your own thing.

Las Colinas; 972/567-7871, supntx.com

Wondrous Waterfalls

223

AIRFIELD FALLS is touted

as Tarrant County’s largest natural waterfall, but it’s more than that. When you visit, keep an eye out for some local wildlife and butterflies. Fort Worth; trinitytrails.com/airfieldfalls

224

Located in a serene greenbelt in Richardson, PRAIRIE CREEK PARK WATERFALL is a hidden gem and

known to be a great picnic spot. The best access to the waterfall is by parking on West Prairie Creek Drive.

Richardson; 972/744-4300 just 225Located west of Austin, was HAMILTON POOL

created when the dome of an underground river col-

lapsed. In order to preserve the area, reservations and required and they fill up quickly. Keep in mind: Swimming in Hamilton Pool is not guaranteed due to bacteria levels and safety concerns. Dripping Springs; 512/264-2740, parks.traviscountytx.gov While visiting 226 Colorado Bend State Park, consider finding the 70-foot GORMAN FALLS nestled inside. Be prepared though: Getting to Gorman Falls requires a 3-mile round trip hike over rocky terrain. In other words, we don’t recommend this for little ones.

Bend; tpwd.texas.gov

227

WESTCAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER—a

conservation sanctuary—happens to be home to a waterfall, wet grotto as well as trails. Due to high demand and limited availability, reservations are strongly recommended.

There are no self-guided tours; access to the canyon, cave and grotto is permitted with staff. Round Mountain; westcave.org Located in 228 the Arbuckle Mountains of south-central Oklahoma, TURNER FALLS PARK is a hot spot. Locally considered to be Oklahoma’s largest waterfall, you can view the waterfall from the land or swim in the around. Keep in mind: All children age 12 and younger must wear a Coast Guard approved flotation device, no exceptions. Water depths vary within the park so it’s important to pay attention to the rules for your safety.

Davis, OK; 580/369-2988, turnerfallspark.com

Make it Rain

On the south 229 end of downtown Fort Worth lies the

architectural wonder that is

the FORT WORTH WATER GARDENS. Have fun walking around the structure but keep a close eye on your kiddos and make sure they watch their step.

Fort Worth; 817/392-5700, fortworth.com

230

PIONEER PLAZA is a

one-of-a-kind park that’s dedicated to the celebration of the first settlers in Dallas.

The park includes plants, a flowing stream, a manmade waterfall, manmade cliffs and bronze longhorn steers moving mid-cattle drive.

Dallas; 214/953-1184, texastrees.org/pioneer-plaza

Lead a child to 231 water, and they will … play! Take the kids

for a good romp around the MAIN STREET INTERACTIVE FOUNTAIN in the heart of Old Town Coppell.

The fountain operates daily from 9am-1pm and 4-8pm.

Coppell; 972/462-5100, coppelltx.gov

232

KLYDE WARREN PARK has

a lot to offer—a children’s park, food trucks, and even a dog park. But we bet the most enticing park feature for kids this summer will be the interactive fountain.

Bring your kids (and a towel) for a good splash around the fountain, situated in the Children’s Park section. Dallas; 214/7164500, klydewarrenpark.org

233While theare not FOUNTAINS AT LEGACY WEST

ones the kiddos can play in, they will still enjoy watching them dance with the music accompanied by beautiful lights in the evenings as you stroll around. The fountains are located in front of Mesero and Cava. Plano; 469/702-8402, legacywest. com on with over 20 works by artists such as Mel Bochner and Ellsworth Kelly.

Arlington; 817/892-TOUR, attstadium.com/tours

FORT WORTH WATER GARDENS: COURTESY OF FWMSH

places to go / W A T E R

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PROMOTED CONTENT | TOP SUMMER SAFETY TIPS

TOP SUMMER SAFETY TIPS We’ve asked local healthcare professionals to highlight some of the top summer hazards parents should watch out for. Read on for great advice on how to keep your family safe this summer.

32

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

PROMOTED CONTENT | TOP SUMMER SAFETY TIPS

Skip the Sunburn this Year: Sun Safety Tips to Stay Cool All Summer Dr. Maha Haroon and Dr. Aakanksha Gera of Burleson Pediatrics share their tips for keeping your family safe in the summer sun.

SUN SAFETY BASICS While the Texas sun can be brutal all day, UV rays are at their peak, and most dangerous, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During these hours, try to minimize exposure as much as possible by limiting outdoor time to reduce your risk of sun damage and heat exhaustion.

HOW TO STAY PROTECTED Both doctors agree: the best way to stay protected is to always wear sunscreen! In addition to wearing sunscreen, there are several ways to shield your family from sun burns all summer long.

Have your child wear light, comfortable clothing that is also sun protective. Long sleeves and pants may seem like an unusual choice, but they provide a great barrier against harmful UV rays. Complete the outfit with a fun sun hat with a wide brim to ensure their face stays shaded.

Infants who are younger than six months

Burleson Pediatrics

old should avoid direct sunlight to prevent sunburn and heat stroke. “Better to be under shade at this age,” said Dr. Haroon.

While sunscreen is typically recommended for babies older than six months, you can apply sunscreen to small, exposed areas of your infant’s body (i.e. face or the back of hands), if shade and protective clothing are not available.

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR If your child does get a sunburn, it’s important to know when to call your pediatrician.

If your infant is younger than a year old, call your doctor right away. “Always call your physician if the burn begins to worsen,” says Dr. Gera, “Or if your child begins to have blistering, pain or fever.”

To learn more about Burleson Pediatrics, please visit TexasHealth.org/THMA or call 817-551-5539.

TexasHealth.org/THMA 817-551-5539

5 Sunscreen Tips (for your child age 6 months and older)

1 2 3 4 5

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and up to SPF 50. Broadspectrum sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays.

Choose sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide; these ingredients are effective and safe options for your child’s sunscreen.

Make sure to cover all exposed areas (face, ears, nose, hands, feet, etc.) about 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.

Don’t forget to reapply every 2 hours! No sunscreen is 100% waterproof, so you should still reapply, especially after being in the water.

Avoid the eye area in young infants and children, as your child may accidentally rub it into their eyes.

Part of Texas Health Medical Associates dfwchild.com / june 2021

33

PROMOTED CONTENT | TOP SUMMER SAFETY TIPS

4 Most Common Summertime Rashes Healthy, summertime skin tips from Alina Olteanu, MD, PhD Imagine your children playing outdoors this summer! Imagine a summer with blue skies, white beaches, green meadows, and no red rashes! It is completely possible with a little bit of planning and some firstaid mommy-skills.

Integrative pediatric medicine is a healing paradigm that includes the best ways to treat children, by combining modern medicine methods with more natural healing options that are scientifically sound and safe. It also treats the whole child, spirit-body-brain, and relies on a strong therapeutic bond between the patient and the physician. For example, the medicine cabinet of a mom who would like an integrative medicine approach to summer rashes, would include both 1 % hydrocortisone cream and more natural, soothing salves like chamomile oil, calendula cream, colloidal oatmeal, coconut oil, or aloe vera gel.

Here are some important things you need to know about the 4 most common summer rashes in children:

1

HEAT RASH

• Occurs more commonly in babies and young children.

• Prevention includes getting babies outside in the mornings and evenings, when it’s not too hot outside, keep the moist areas like skin folds and diaper areas dry.

• Apply cool towels and keep skin moisturized.

2

• Teach children to recognize plants that easily induce rashes; show children pictures of poison ivy and poison oak and teach them “leaves of three, let them be.”

• If you suspect that your child was exposed, give them a bath and also keep their nails trimmed short so they don’t scratch.

• Apply soothing lotions to skin, like calamine lotion, chamomile or calendula creams, or 1 % hydrocortisone cream over-the-counter.

facebook.com/wholechildtexas twitter.com/alinaolteanu instagram.com/dralinaolteanu

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

INSECT BITES: BEES, WASPS, FIRE ANTS, MOSQUITOS, AND CHIGGERS

• Inspect the areas where your children are playing outside, treat your garden for fire ants or chiggers, keep the grass cut if possible. Chiggers love tall grass!

• For best bug sprays for children, check out the Environmental Working Group website (see resources).

• Apply cold compress to reduce pain and swelling as soon as possible.

• Use the calendula, chamomile, and over the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation.

4

ECZEMA

• Eczema can flare-up in warm weather POISON IVY OR OTHER RASHES INDUCED BY PLANTS

wholechildtexas.com

34

3

• It is one of the chronic conditions that can be treated successfully with an integrative medicine approach that includes nutritional and lifestyle changes along with natural creams or prescriptions medications.

Most summer rashes can be treated at home, with natural remedies or mild over-thecounter creams. However, if the rash is severe or not improving, involves sensitive areas like the eyes or genital areas, children are uncomfortable and in pain, or if there are any signs of infections, like fever, or severe allergic reaction, like breathing difficulties, it’s always a good idea to talk with your pediatrician.

RESOURCES Visit Environmental Working Group’s website for great resources on sunscreen, bug spray, skin lotions: ewg.org.

Looking for fun things to do with your family?

Check out the Community Calendar on dfwchild.com to see what cool things are happening­—festivals, events and family-friendly destinations. Get out and take advantage of all that Dallas–Fort Worth has to offer.

Visit our calendar: dfwchild.com/calendar

Scan with your phone’s camera

COURTESY OF MICHAEL BROSILOW/IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH

S

/

//

things to do

/ /

/

SUMMERTIME MEANS a lot more free time. Make plans to head to some of these events, from kid-friendly concerts and outdoor movies to a Nerf challenge and realistic dino exhibit. Or check out our suggestions for a family date night. Go ahead and party hard, treat yourself, stay up late. There’s no such thing as a school night (for a couple of months, at least).

IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH EXHIBIT

dfwchild.com / june 2021

37

things to do

soak up the sun

LIVE LIFE TO THE MAX AT THESE

29

E V E N T S I N J U N E & J U LY

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

Discovery Gardens at Fair Park. Get a taste of this classic American musical about a traveling salesman who cons the townspeople of River City, Iowa. General admission tickets: $75 for a two-person socially distant square. musicmandfw.com

June 30–July 24 with an extended intermission on July Fourth for fireworks). $20 general admission; free for children age 10 and younger. 1500 Tenison Pkwy., Dallas; shakespearedallas.org

FLIP OUT

FATHER-SON FIELD DAY Parr Park

J U N E 3– 6

Don’t wait until Father’s Day to show the man in your life how badly you love him can cream him in a footrace.

Sign up by June 2 to join this action-packed morning of games meant to strengthen the bond between boys (open to age 3 and older) and their fathers or father figures. Max of three boys per dad. $15 per person for Grapevine residents; $20 for non-residents. Includes lunch. 3010 Parr Lane, Grapevine; gograpevine.com/ fatherson

U. S . G YM NA ST IC S C HA M P ION SH I P Dickies Arena

DO DO DO DO DO DO

BA B Y S HA R K L I V E !

Comerica Center JUNE 1

Dive into the frenzy at this live concert with Baby Shark, his buddy Pinkfong and all their underwater friends as they sing and dance along to hit songs “Baby Shark,” “Five Little Monkeys,” “Wheels on the Bus,” “Jungle Boogie” and “Monkey Banana Dance.” Tickets from $23.50.

Children younger than age 2 do not require a ticket to sit on a parent’s lap. 2601 Avenue of the Stars, Frisco; babysharklive.com

SHINE A LIGHT ON YOUR FUTURE

LIFE MAPS: A JOURNEY BAC K TO M Y 1 2 - Y E A ROL D SE L F House of Shine J U N E 1–AU G U S T 3 1

House of Shine—the new nonprofit “museum of selfdiscovery” designed for visitors age 5 and older, located just off Grapevine’s historic Main Street—rolls out its first pop-up exhibit this summer.

Bring your littles to learn about nine local people who’ve made a difference and whose experiences are 38

depicted in a connect-thedots illustration. FREE 334 S. Barton St., Grapevine; houseofshine.com

HIT THE TRAILS

T R A I L DAYS Biodiversity Education Center J U N E 2–J U LY 2 8

On Wednesdays this summer, local educators invite kids ages 3–14 for drop-in activities throughout Coppell Nature Park. Come each week to explore new topics—the importance of soil conservation, how to track an animal, how they adapt to changes in the environment—for no admission fee. Pick up a map and hit the trails toward the activity stations anytime between 10am and 2pm. FREE 367 Freeport Pkwy., Coppell; coppelltx.gov

FACE THE MUSIC

THE MUSIC MAN Multiple locations J U N E 3–J U LY 4

Theatre Three takes its latest production on the road for outdoor performances at three separate venues: Coppell Senior & Community Center, Union Coffee in Uptown Dallas and Texas

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Don’t throw away your one shot to witness gymnastics superstars Simone Biles (she’s a Texan too!) and Sam Mikulak give their all on the mat in Fort Worth. This fourday national competition sets the winners of the 2021 men’s and women’s national all-around and individual events on the road to the U.S. Olympic team trials and then on to the Tokyo Olympics. Ticket prices vary by individual session, starting at $27. Multi-session packages are available.

1911 Montgomery St., Fort Worth; usgymchampionships.com

TO BE OR NOT TO BE

SHA K E SP E A R E I N T H E PA R K SamuellGrand Amphitheatre J U N E 3– J U LY 2 4

Shakespeare Dallas’ return to the amphitheater for its landmark 50th season feels especially triumphant after the completion of substantial repairs from the winter storm. Bring lawn chairs and a picnic dinner for socially distanced, live performances: Hamlet Project, inspired by the Bard’s famous tragedy (June 3–13) and a parody calleed The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] (set for

IN YOUR FATHER’S FOOTSTEPS

JUNE 5

CURRENT EVENTS T H E R A I N B OW FISH MUSICAL Artisan Center Theater JUNE 5– J U LY 3

Local kids ages 8–14 perform in the Artisan Children’s Theater’s latest production based on the bestselling children’s book by Marcus Pfister. The title character is the most beautiful fish in the ocean but has no friends because he refuses to share.

(You can see where this is going.) Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children age 12 and younger. Tickets are available for more Main Stage productions, including The Sound of Music—opening July 16. 444 E. Pipeline Road, Hurst; artisanct.com

KEEP YOUR COMPOSURE

T H E MO Z A RT E X PE R I E N C E Meyerson Symphony Center JUNE 5

Maggie Petersen of the Magic Circle Mime Co. performs on stage as a street performer who’s mistaken for famed composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and thrust on stage to conduct a live orchestra. See how the plot unfolds in this Family Concert Series event presented by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, featuring Alexander Kienle on French horn. Tickets are $15.

2301 Flora St., Dallas; dallassymphony.org

SUNSET, CAMERA, ACTION

DR I V E - I N M OV I E SE R I E S Coppell Arts Center

J U N E 5 A N D J U LY 10

Revisit some of your kids’ favorite films—Madagascar in June and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (the animated film with Miles Morales) in July—at your friendly neighborhood arts center in Old Town Coppell, which has turned its freshly paved parking lot into an old-fashioned drive-in. Gates open at 8pm. $15 per vehicle. Kettle popcorn and drinks are available for purchase. 505 Travis St., Coppell; coppellartscenter.org

CAST A LINE

F I SH I N G SE M I NA R F OR K I D S Fort Worth Zoo JUNE 12

Sign up your kids ages 6–16 for this morning seminar taught by an experienced fisherman.

They’ll score a new rod and reel and learn how to cast a line, as well as all the basic skills they’ll need to entertain themselves for the summer (or—hey, let’s be positive here—feed themselves for a lifetime). Make your reservation online for one of two time

COURTESY OF BABY SHARK LIVE!; ISTOCK

DRIVE-IN MOVIE SERIES, COPPELL

slots: 8:30–10am or 10:30am– noon. Plan to spend the rest of the day at the zoo at no additional charge. Zoo members: $36 for one adult and one child. General public: $40 for one adult and one child. $16.20 per additional child; $22.50 per additional adult.

Zoo members receive a 10% discount on their additional guests. 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth; fortworthzoo.org

MAKE A WISH

B IG C AT B I RT H DAY BA SH In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue & Educational Center J U N E 12

In-Sync is throwing a joint birthday party for all its resident cats, including recent birthday boys Chance the bobcat (who turned 10 last month) and Cincinnati the tiger (who turned 15). Join the celebration and partake in cake, ice cream and games, while watching the cats enjoy their own birthday treats—ice cream and chicken. Suggested donation for entry: $12 adults; $8 children 4–12 years; free for 3 and younger.

3430 Skyview Drive, Wylie; insyncexotics.com

PAINT YOUR OWN REALITY

F R I DA K A H LO & T H E B R AV E ST G I R L I N T H E WOR L D Dallas Museum of Art

COURTESY OF JURASSIC WORLD: THE EXHIBITION

JUNE 12

Outdoors at the DMA, the Fort Worth Opera presents a 20-minute excerpt from the company’s one-act children’s opera, based on a book about the real-life friendship between the famed Mexican painter and a young girl named Marianna. Watch one of the pop-up performances on Saturday (1pm or 2pm) and stay to view the DMA’s special exhibit Frida Kahlo: Five Works, on display through June 20. Get free admission to the opera performance as well as the special exhibit.

1717 N. Harwood St., Dallas; dma.org

STEP INSIDE A PAINTING

I M M E R SI V E VA N G O G H EXHIBIT Location to be announced J U N E 17 – S E P T E M B E R 6

This is definitely no stagnant art exhibit. Set to music, Vin-

cent Van Gogh’s most famous works—“Starry Night” (1889), “Sunflowers” (1888) and “The Bedroom” (1889)—are digitally projected high onto the walls and across the floors, moving images that highlight the individual brushstrokes, color and detail of each painting.

Reserve your tickets now for this world-touring installation (June is already sold out) and stay safe inside social distancing circles projected throughout the entire gallery space. $39.99 off-peak days; $49.99 peak days; $29.99 children for ages 6–16; 5 years and younger do not need a ticket.

VIP tickets $99.99. Venue address to come, Dallas; dallasvangogh.com

ROAR WITH THE DINOS (NO TIME TRAVEL REQUIRED) J U R A S SIC WOR L D : THE EXHIBIT ION Grandscape

JU NE 18– SE PT E M B E R 5

Behind the skyhigh wooden gates to Jurassic Park, this massive exhibit features a world of life-size animatronic dinosaurs from the blockbuster movie franchise. You’ll interact with a ferocious T. rex, the pack-hunting Velociraptors and new baby dinosaurs— including an Ankylosaurus named Bumpy from the Netflix series Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous. Tickets from $29.50 for adults (age 16 and older); $19.50 for ages 3–15; free for children age 2 and younger with their parent. 5752 Grandscape Blvd., The Colony; jurassicworldexhibition.com

DANCING IN THE DARK

A DDI S ON A F T E R DA R K Addison Circle Park J U N E 19 A N D J U LY 17

This live music series features a different theme each month and a new roster of outdoor fun on third Saturdays. In June, wear your best ’70s-inspired getup for a costume contest and disco dancing lessons before a concert by tribute band Le Freak. The July event is part of Parks and Recreation Month, so get ready for bungee jumping, laser and water tag, a climbing wall and other activities for the family. FREE 15650 Addison Road, Addison; addisonafterdark.com

PLAYING HOOKY

M OV I E S I N T H E PA R K Klyde Warren Park JUNE 19

Share the 1986 cult comedy Ferris Bueller’s Day Off with your kids at this outdoor movie screening in downtown Dallas. (The monthly-ish film series continues through the end of the year.) Come early to splash in the fountains at the children’s park and grab dinner from the food trucks before settling on the lawn for the film. “Bueller?” FREE 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy., Dallas; klydewarrenpark.org

register with us for great benets

THE ART OF ABSTRACTION

S E A N S C U L LY: T H E S HA PE OF I DE AS The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth OPENS JUNE 20

This is a major retrospective of the most significant works

by Irish-born American artist Sean Scully. The exhibition showcases 49 paintings and 42 works on paper (drawings, prints, pastels) that reflect the many phases of his artmaking, dating back to the 1970s. Included with general admission: $16 adults; free for children under 18. Half-price Sundays and free on Fridays.

3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth; themodern.org

WATERLOGGED

DI V E - I N M OV I E Flower Mound Community Activity Center J U N E 2 5 A N D J U LY 30

Trade the sofa for the poolside on these select Friday nights when the Town of Flower Mound screens two movies at the CAC’s indoor pool. Bring your floaties from home and settle in by movie time at 7pm to watch The Meg (as in the prehistoric Megalodon shark, for your teens or bravest little swimmers) on June 25 and The Little Mermaid on July 30.

Children age 10 and older are welcome without an adult present. Free with paid daily admission: $6 for adults and $4 for kids who live in Flower Mound; $8 for adults and $6 for kids who live elsewhere.

1200 Gerault Road, Flower Mound; flower-mound.com

FLOAT YOUR BOAT

SU N DAY F U N DAYS Panther Island Pavilion

J U N E 2 7– S E P T E M B E R 5

Pack your river shoes and pump up those inflatables to float for free along the shores of the Trinity River at Panther Island. Enjoy all the family fun

Find a store near you or shop online at

buybuybaby.com

everything for

newborns ® to toddlers

dfwchild.com / june 2021

39

things to do

PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE out on the water with $5 allday tube rentals and $20 per hour pedal boats. Important to note: Kids must be at least 30 inches tall to enter the water, and lifejackets are provided for free for those 12 and younger.

Sunday Fundays return each week through Labor Day, except for July Fourth when fireworks light up the sky—and the river—at 9:30pm. FREE 395 Purcey St., Fort Worth; pantherislandpavilion.com

FREEWHEELING

I N DE P E N DE N C E DAY C H I L DR E N ’ S PA R A DE Leonard & Helen Johns Community Park J U LY 3

Flower Mound salutes its youngest citizens in this annual patriotic parade of bicycles, tricycles, Radio Flyer wagons, scooters, strollers and otherwise non-motorized, child-sized vehicles. One day ahead of the town’s big July Fourth festival, let your kids decorate their favorite rides with red, white and blue, then join the lineup. The festivities include free hot dogs, drinks, children’s activities and live entertainment. FREE 1800 Timber Creek Road, Flower Mound; flower-mound.com

STARRY NIGHT

A DDI S ON KA B O OM TOW N !

Addison Circle Park J U LY 3

This nationally ranked fireworks show caps off an entire day of July Fourth festivities.

Join one of the many watch 40

BLAST THE COMPETITION

parties around town and tune into 102.1 FM at 9:30pm for musical accompaniment during the fireworks, or watch from inside the park for the very best view. Get there early to beat the traffic, and enjoy food and concessions from local vendors, live music and a view of antique aircraft taking off from Addison Airport. Admission to the event is free, but a ticket system will be used to maintain a limited number of attendees due to COVID-19. The fireworks will be visible from much of the surrounding area. FREE 15650 Addison Road, Addison; addisonkaboomtown.com

ODE TO AMERICA

A M E R IC A S T RON G C ON C E RT Dickies Arena J U LY 4

The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra performs this socially distant concert (through pod seating) in tribute to the country’s perseverance. Two world-renowned opera singers provide the vocals while FWSO conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya begins with “The Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by a piece by Texas Christian University alumnus Kevin Day. More works will be performed as well by leading Black and Latin American composers.

Event tickets begin at $29.30

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

per person, available in pods of two, three or four seats.

1911 Montgomery St., Fort Worth; fwsymphony.org

WORTH MELTING FOR

NAT IONA L IC E C R E A M SU N DAY Kimbell Art Museum J U LY 1 8

The world’s most delicious fake holiday—National Ice Cream Day—returns to the Kimbell during this afternoon party. Grab a free cone on the lawn of the Kahn Building and stop by the education table to pick up a free art kit themed after Buddha, Shiva, Lotus, Dragon—the new exhibit on view June 27– September 5 inside the Piano Pavilion. Special exhibition admission is $18 for adults, $14 for ages 6–11 and free for children 5 and younger.

3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth; kimbellart.org

NATURE’S BUILDING BLOCKS

SE A N K E N N E Y ’ S NAT U R E C ON N E C T S M A DE W I T H L E G O B R IC K S Fort Worth Botanic Garden T H R O U G H AU G U S T 1

A hummingbird drinking from a trumpet flower, a butterfly resting on milkweed—see these creatures and more fashioned entirely from LEGOs

by New Yorkbased artist and children’s book creator Sean Ken-

N E R F C HA L L E N G E Centennial Hall at Fair Park T H R O U G H AU G U S T 8

Take your Nerf fight to the next level at this new attraction of larger-thanlife, foam-filled games that test your skills as an athlete.

Score a goal in a humansized foosball field or bowl a strike while swinging atop a foam-filled wrecking ball. No worries, folks. It’s all made of foam, with some soft play competitions suited for kids as young as 8 and others designed for 14 and up. Tickets from $25 per participant and from $9 for spectators.

1001 Washington St., Dallas; nerfchallenge.com

MARVEL AT ZIMBABWEAN SCULPTURES

ZIMSCULPT Dallas Arboretum

T H R O U G H AU G U S T 8

More than 100 sculptures carved from serpentine and semi-precious stones by contemporary Zimbabwean artists adorn the arboretum this summer. Don’t miss your chance to behold the sculptures—some weighing tons and standing 7 feet tall—and watch two sculptors carve statues daily with chisels, hammers and sandpaper. Make the most of your visit by coming on Family Fun Fridays—with petting zoo fun and KinderMusik—in June

and July.

Free with general admission: $15 adults; $10 children ages 2–12.

Reserve your tickets online.

8525 Garland Road, Dallas, dallasarboretum.org

SPLASH LIKE AN ELEPHANT

E L E P HA N T SP R I N G S & S A FA R I SP L A SH Fort Worth Zoo N O W O P E N D A I LY

The Asian elephant herd and greater one-horned rhinos who call Fort Worth Zoo home got a major upgrade to their digs. This new permanent habitat with multiple watering holes and yards is nearly triple the size of their previous habitat. Come interact with the herd by spraying water streams into the 400,000-gallon river.

Then, all summer long, cool off with your kids at Safari Splash, a water play area with animal-shaped water cannons and a toddler zone.

Safari Splash admission is $5 for age 3 and older, plus general admission: $16 for adults; $12 for children ages 3–12; free for 2 and younger.

1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth, fortworthzoo.org

BEAT A WORLD RECORD

T H E S C I E N C E OF G U I N N E S S WOR L D R E C OR D S Perot Museum of Nature & Science

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6

If you’ve ever dreamed of making it into the history books, here’s your chance.

Challenge yourself in the world’s largest Pac-Man video game and hoop-it-up basketball as you discover the science behind awe-inspiring feats. Create your avatar and track your progress on leaderboards. Special exhibit admission: $8 for adults and $6 for children ages 2–12, plus general admission: $20 for adults, $13 for children.

Free for children under 2.

2201 N. Field St., Dallas, perotmuseum.org

F O R M O R E F A M I LY- F R I E N D LY F U N T H I S S U M M E R , C H E C K O U R O N L I N E C A L E N DA R AT D F W C H I L D.CO M/C A L E N DA R. A N D W H I L E Y O U ’ R E T H E R E , S I G N U P F O R O U R W E E K LY E-NEWSLETTER: THE WEEKEND GUIDE.

COURTESY OF TURK STUDIO/PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE; SEAN KENNEY’S NATURE CONNECTS MADE WITH LEGO BRICKS; ISTOCK

ney, who brings his awardwinning exhibit to Fort Worth.

While you’re there, don’t miss the garden’s two other whimsical sculpture exhibits: animal-shaped topiaries through June 30 and Stickwork on view through the end of the year. Free with garden admission: $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 6–15 and free for those who are 5 years or younger.

3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth; brit.org

Calling all Summertime This summer, unleash your inner inventor!

Join us in the Spark!Lab at the Irving Archives and Museum

What is Spark!Lab? This unique space offers children and their families an opportunity to create, innovate and problem solve, empowering kids to develop the skills and confidence they need for success today and in the future.

Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm Visit irvingarchivesandmuseum.com for more information and reservations.

Twin Coves Park & Campground

Plan a stay-cation at the picturesque Twin Coves Park in Flower Mound!

The park boasts 19 furnished cabins and 22 RV slips, in addition to a variety of other amenities including a small craft launch boat ramp, and much more.

Families and can enjoy a variety of features including office/camp store, playground, two large pavilions, grass volleyball court, horseshoes and washer game sets, four-hole disc golf course, nature trails, and a lake overlook area with a fire pit and seating. Online reservations for cabin, RV, and tent site rentals can be made through the park website or by phone.

5001 Wichita Trail Flower Mound, TX 75022 twincoves@flower-mound.com 972.874.6399 / twincovespark.com

801 W. Irving Blvd., Irving, TX 75060 | 972-721-3700

dfwchild.com / june 2021

41

things to do

33 family dates FA M I L I E S W H O P L AY T O G E T H E R , S TAY T O G E T H E R WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS

Children’s Theaters

There’s nary a weekend without a NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS show.

At the new Nack Theater in Frisco, check out children’s shows plus comedy for you and your S.O. Collin County and Dallas; 972/422-2575, ntpa.org The summertime children’s show at ARTISAN CENTER THEATER is based on the book The Rainbow Fish (June 5–July 3). There are shows for grownups as well. Hurst; 817/284-1200, artisanct.com CASA MAÑANA’s children’s shows return in spring 2022, but consider this month’s Camp Casa Jr. for 4- to 8-year-olds. For Mom and Dad, Hamilton star Darnell Abraham and American Idol winner Nick Fradiani perform a Neil Diamond tribute.

42

Fort Worth; 817/332-2272, casamanana.org Looking for a date at home?

Check out DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER for online options while in-person shows are on hold. Virtual; 214/740-0051, dct.org

Drive-ins

Have an old-fashioned experience at COYOTE DRIVE-IN, an outdoor theater across the river from downtown Fort Worth.

Before sundown, pass time in the play area or concession pavilion. Fort Worth; 817/717-7767, coyotedrive-in.com In addition to indoor films, FUN MOVIE GRILL sets up an outdoor screen for a weekend drive-in. Head to the concession stand to pick up some pizza, traditional movie snacks and Hindi foods. Irving; 972/556-9524, funmoviegrill.com

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

The town known for bluebonnets also boasts the GALAXY DRIVE-IN, North Texas’ biggest drivein theater. Take the trip to Ennis, just a 30-minute drive south from Dallas. Ennis; 972/875-5505, galaxydriveintheatre.com BRAZOS DRIVE-IN THEATRE,

southwest of Fort Worth, lets you watch from your vehicle or from porch chairs at the snack bar.

Granbury; 817/573-1311, brazosdrivein.com

Escape Rooms

All ages can join BREAKOUT GAMES’ challenges.

(Just confirm the theme you choose is childappropriate.) With virtual experiences, you can even escape without leaving home. Arlington and Plano; breakoutgames.com/dallas ESCAPE THE ROOM offers experiences in Dallas and

Fort Worth. Kids are welcome in most rooms. Try The Theater for its Toy Story meets Howdy Doody vibe.

Dallas and Fort Worth; 972/338-4510, escapetheroom.com The challenges at THE SECRET CHAMBERS are designed to be fun, not frustrating. There are four rooms (including a pirate adventure and a train heist) in Fort Worth; there’s no minimum age here, but some rooms are more challenging. The new Poe Adventure in Arlington is for age 10 and up only.

Fort Worth and Arlington; thesecretchambers.com

Bee Tours

Family Volunteering

Join the Facebook group for LITTLE HELPERS OF DALLAS-FORT WORTH

to connect with families sharing ideas for volunteering with littles. Most events are in northeast Tarrant, but everyone is welcome. Colleyville area; search facebook.com Help the NORTH TEXAS FOOD BANK fight food insecurity by signing up for volunteer opportunities, which vary based on age. Plano; 214/330-1396, ntfb.org With a title that doesn’t mince words, FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN

ROUND ROCK HONEY offers

classes and tours north of Austin. Register for a factory tour on June 19 or July 31; shop for honey, soaps and skincare items while you’re there. Round Rock; 512/828-5416, roundrockhoney.com Visit TWO HIVES HONEY near Austin to hang out at the honey bar or book a beehive tour, beekeeping class or tasting class.

Manor; 737/203-8598, twohiveshoney.com

( LANDMARK )

On your next trip south, stop at BEEWEAVER HONEY FARM. The general store is open daily, and hive tours are on Sundays. Plan a road trip on June 26 for the inaugural Honey Cook Off. Navasota; 512/535-2219, beeweaver.com

for panoramic views from Big D’s most iconic landmark. Check the venue’s calendar for sunset yoga, skyline painting and more events every month. Dallas; 214/7127040, reuniontower.com

GOING UP

Feel your ears pop as you take the glass elevator to the REUNION

TOWER GEO-DECK

provides assistance to global communities with chronic hunger. Join the effort by shopping the online artisan market and volunteering to pack food. Richardson; 214/453-5480, fmsc.org

Entertainment Destinations Hit up MAIN EVENT for bowling, billiards and games. Frisco and Grand Prairie centers have laser tag, karaoke and gravity ropes. Multiple locations; mainevent.com

Looking for an outing that’s not par for the course? Book a hitting bay at TOP GOLF in Allen, Dallas, Fort Worth or The Colony. Help your kids hone their skills during

the Top Golf Summer Academy. Multiple Locations; topgolf.com Don’t wait until the weekend to bowl and play games at PINSTACK. There’s half-off wine bottles on Wednesdays and half-price games on Tuesdays. You can also live it up on the climbing wall, ropes course, bumper cars and more. Allen, Las Colinas and Plano; pinstackbowl.com SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS

welcomes back revelers with new rides like Harley Quinn Spinsanity. You can still enjoy Looney Tunes rides with littles. Arlington; 817/640-8900, sixflags. com/overtexas

Another way to beat the heat: Battle in bumper boats at ADVENTURE LANDING. For drier fun, check out laser tag, batting cages, mini golf and gokarts. Dallas; 972/2484653, dallas.adventurelanding.com Travel to faraway lands with DREAMSCAPE at NorthPark Center. Choose your virtual reality experience, then suit up in your headset and tracker. Dallas; 469/324-4960, dreamscapeimmersive.com Bowl or try your hand at bocce ball at PINSTRIPES, located at the swanky Shops at Clearfork. Come on Fridays and Saturdays for live music. Fort Worth; 682/352-0808, pinstripes. com/fort-worth Treat your little monsters to a night of glow-in-the-

dark fun at MONSTER MINI GOLF, which also offers mini bowling, a laser maze and virtual reality.

Frisco; 469/598-0444, monsterminigolf.com/frisco STRIKZ partners with the Kids Bowl Free summer program. Sign up, then stay for laser tag and arcade games. Frisco; 972/668-5263, strikz.com

Register for Kids Bowl Free at ALLEY CATS, where there’s also batting cages, mini golf, laser tag and a climbing wall. Head to Hurst for go-karts, a mini coaster and tower ride. Hurst and Arlington; alleycatsbowl.com The world of virtual reality is your oyster at FIXATION VR. Browse more than 130 virtual reality games, such as the kid-friendly Fruit Ninja. Hurst; 682/404-6445, fixationvr.com

CELEBRATION STATION

is the place to go for Eurobungy, bumper boats, batting cages and a paintball arena. Mesquite; 972/2797888, celebrationstation.com MOUNTASIA FAMILY FUN CENTER makes entertain-

ment easy with bumper boats, kiddie rides, go-karts and mini golf. North Richland Hills; 817/503-8833, mountasiafamilyfun­center.com Channel racing legend Mario Andretti at his eponymous space, ANDRETTI INDOOR KARTING & GAMES. Speed around in electric go-karts, then check out virtual reality, the ropes course and an upscale bowling lounge. The Colony; 469/527-3278, andrettikarting.com/thecolony FIND MORE F A M I LY D A T E I D E A S O N L I N E AT DFWCHILD.COM.

Zoo Preschool offers an immersive learning environment that moves as quick as your little explorer’s mind. Children ages 3 to 5 will take the classroom outside to enjoy fun, educational encounters with some of the world’s most impressive animals. Don’t wait, spots fill fast!

September 2021 to May 2022: • Once a week for three hours • NEW: Twice a week for five hours

Zoo Members Save 10%

• Student-teacher ratio: 7 to 1

Registration now open fortworthzoo.org/preschool

dfwchild.com / june 2021

43

KIDS ARE UP FOR ANY CHALLENGE. THAT MAKES TWO OF US.

Children’s Health combines the top pediatric physicians and team members to provide breakthrough care no matter what comes your family’s way.

SM

See how we’re keeping your family safe at childrens.com/safety.

We give it our everything, because kids can do anything.

WATERPARK: MORGAN’S WONDERLAND INCLUSION FOUNDATION;

/ /

/

fun for all

MORGAN’S WONDERLAND

dfwchild.com / june 2021

45

A

fun for all / S P E C I A L

All-Abilities Parks

of all abilities can 1partKids have fun at kidMania, of Allen’s CELEBRATION PARK. Choose

from dozens of activities, then head over to the park’s sprayground. Allen; 214/509-4700, cityofallen.org

2

Make a family visit to MARY HEADS CARTER PARK in Carrollton. There’s turf that’s smooth enough for wheelchairs, an accessible merry-go-round, slides and climbing features.

Carrollton; 972/466-3080, cityofcarrollton.com

3

CHILD’S PLAY is an accessible playground alongside Bachman Lake.

The nautical-themed park has an extensive ramp system and features a glider, slides, a tower and play stations. You can also watch Love Field planes land and take off. Dallas; accessibleplayground.net/ united-states/texas/childsplay-at-bachman-lake

4

FLAG POLE HILL PARK in the Lake

Highlands area has your pass to all-inclusive play. Its all-abilities playground was built with the backing of golf pro and Dallas native Jordan Spieth (whose sister has special needs), among other supporters. The play area includes swings, a climbing net, a spinning wheel and more features.

Dallas; 214/670-4100, dallasparks.org

CASEY’S CLUBHOUSE

Tunnels, slides, swings 5 with back supports, a bucket-seat zipline, a

wheelchair-friendly glider, spinner and even quiet domes for kids who are over-stimulated: DREAM PARK in Fort Worth has it all. The all-abilities playscape, part of Trinity Park, is fenced in as an extra safety measure. Fort Worth; 817/392-5700; dreamparkfw.org

6

PATRICIA LEBLANC PARK in Fort Worth

has an all-abilities playground with accessible bridges and swings, sensory areas, an easy-to-navigate ground surface and other features. The park had the first playground in the nation with universal design methodology, allowing kids with special needs to play side-by-side with JACK CARTER PARK

other children. Fort Worth; 817/392-5700, fortworthtexas.gov/parks With a sensory area, 7 adaptive play equipment and rubberized surface, every child can have a good time at HOPE PARK AT FRISCO COMMONS. After you play, cool down at Frisco Commons’ spray park. Frisco; 972/292-6500, friscotexas.gov

8

Your family will have a grand time at PLAYGRAND ADVENTURES, a colorful, multi-acre park—built to encourage cognitive and motor skill development along with sensory engagement and social interaction. The all-abilities park is part of the EpicCentral development, which houses Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark and other recreation areas.

Grand Prairie; playgrandadventures.com

9

Your child will get accessible fun at

CASEY’S CLUBHOUSE in Grapevine.

Part of Dove Park, this 46

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

playground includes a treehouse-themed play structure, swings, slides, climbing, places to engage kids’ senses and promote cognitive development, picnic tables and more.

Grapevine; 817/410-3450, gograpevine.com/listing/ dove-park The parent of one 10 child with special needs describes Irving’s COTTONWOOD CREEK PARK as clearly designed

with “accessibility in mind.” Enjoy the adaptive playground (with ramps, slides, sensory areas) as well as the park’s pond, trails and grassy areas. Irving; 972/721-2501, cityofirving.org

11

McKinney’s BONNIE WENK PARK includes an all-abilities playground, with accessible swings, sensory walls, slides, a spinner and other fun.

The park also has a fitness court, which is an outdoor gym-alternative for adults of all ability levels. Other features at Bonnie Wenk Park include more play

areas (such as a zip line and sky bridge), a dog park, trails and a fishing pond.

McKinney; 972/547-7480, mckinneytexas.org

12

JACK CARTER PARK in Plano

has a playground designed to let kiddos of all abilities to play together.

Equipment and activities engage children in movement and climbing as well as tactile, visual and auditory experiences. You can enjoy the park pond and trails, too. Plano; 972/9417250, plano.gov

Plano’s Windhaven 13 Meadows Park is home to LIBERTY PLAYGROUND. The accessible

playground, supported by Liberty Mutual Insurance, includes a sensory garden with a water table and stream with spray features; dedicated areas for older and younger kids to encourage age-appropriate learning development; dozens of pieces of equipment; plus seat walls, benches, tables and shade. Plano; 972/941-7250, plano.gov

PLAYGROUND: GRAPEVINE PARKS AND RECREATION; SWING: PLANO PARKS & RECREATION

( PARKS )

NEEDS

his summer, proactively prepare for safe water play by creating a routine.

You may be thinking, “I don’t have a pool or live around a body of water”. The reality is, there will always be unplanned instances when your child is around potentially dangerous water sources.

Practicing these simple tips in advance will help keep your child safe all summer long.

Teach your child how to identify bodies of water and come to you when they do so

AUTISM TREATMENT therapyandbeyond.com

844.422.2669

Let them practice asking permission to go into the water. If your kiddo is nonverbal, they can carry a card, sign, or use their AAC device.

Have them count to three before getting into the water.

Give them a ‘permission band’.

This can be a rubber band, a scrunchie, or bracelet that they wear letting them know they have permission to swim.

Creating a routine by proactively practicing these tips with your child will help prepare your family for a safe and fun summer!

14The

ANN EISEMANN INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND at

Cottonwood Park, located in Richardson, provides 11,000 square feet of entertainment. There are separate areas for younger and older kids, a rubber safety surface, four types of swings, an adaptive merrygo-round, roller slides, a sensory garden and more.

Richardson; 972/744-4300, cor.net From tunnels and 15 sensory activities to a robot climbing struc-

ture and ramp-accessible castle-themed playground, KIDS KINGDOM park in Rowlett has something for just about everyone. There are also toddler-friendly spots, smooth surfaces and a fenced area to keep kids from wandering away.

Rowlett; 972-412-6170, ci.rowlett.tx.us

NEEDS

Indoor Play

16

CHUCK E. CHEESE

restaurants across Dallas-Fort Worth offer Sensory Sensitive Sundays.

On the first Sunday of the month, participating locations open early for sensitive-friendly play.

Check with a Chuck E. Cheese near you to confirm participation. Elements include dimmed lighting, shows and music turned down or turned off, quieter arcade games and a less-crowded environment. Multiple locations; chuckecheese.com/events/ sensory-sensitive-sundays

17

Explore, learn and play at WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM in Dallas, a gym designed for all kids. There are open sessions where children can enjoy suspended equipment with swings, mats MORGAN’S WONDERLAND

( AMUSEMENT PA R K )

WONDER WORLD

Here’s a theme park everyone can enjoy. MORGAN’S WONDERLAND, in San Antonio, is a firstof-its-kind park built for people with disabilities or special needs. Ride the accessible Ferris wheel or carousel, visit Sensory Village, board the Wonderland Express train, play in accessible swings, engage in pirate make-believe, create sand sculptures and music—the options are endless. Then take a trip to Morgan’s Inspiration Island for splash pads and a sensoryfriendly boat ride. Anyone with a special need gets free admission.

Go to the website for more information on an organization that helps fund trips for families who are traveling to the area. San Antonio; 210/495-5888, morganswonderland. com

48

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

and pillows, a zip line, trampoline, play structure and sensory toys. Kiddos can get creative in the arts and crafts area. The gym also offers classes and private parties. Dallas; 214/468-4880, werockthespectrumdallas. com Sign 18 your child up for a

Sensory Circuit session at

IT’S A SENSORY WORLD. The Farmers Branch destination for learning and play has two sensory gyms with swings, rock walls, slides, trampolines and other activities. It’s a Sensory World also offers an academy, social skills programs and camps.

Farmers Branch; 972/2398100, itsasensoryworld.org

( SPORTS )

Baseball

19

Batter up!

MIRACLE LEAGUE DFW, which

offers children and young adults with disabilities the opportunity to play baseball, is hosting hitting clinics in June and July. Arlington; 817/733-6076, miracleleaguedfw.com

Basketball

20The

DALLAS JUNIOR WHEELCHAIR MAVERICKS offers some Saturday

camps in June and July.

The organization promotes fun and fitness, and gives children with disabilities an

opportunity to thrive in a team environment. Dallas; 214/997-3193, dallasjuniorwheelchairmavericks.org

Cheer

child will shine 21Your as part of EXPRESS CHEER’S SHINING STARS. The summer pro-

gram includes stretching and skill-building; when school resumes, cheerleaders will work on a routine plus continue to develop jump, dance and tumbling moves, all according to the child’s ability. Frisco; 972/731-5888, expresscheer. com/frisco/cheerleading/ special-needs-team

Fencing

21 It’soneallforforalloneat theand

FENCING INSTITUTE OF TEXAS. A recreational

parafencing program at the Carrollton site is designed to help students learn the basics and have fun. It is primarily for individuals in wheelchairs and is open to age 6 and up. There are also programs for those with cognitive disabilities.

Carrollton; 972/242-0399, fenceintexas.org

Fitness

Crull Fitness 22 in Richardson provides fitness training

for those with cognitive or physical disabilities. You can choose from personal training or group sessions. The CHAMPIONS CHALLENGE program is designed to give everyone a chance to train like an elite athlete. Richardson; 972/497-9900, crullfitness.com

Gymnastics

Build your child’s 23 gymnastics abilities with the GYMMIE KIDS

program at ASI Gymnastics. Coaches work with children who have an intellectual disability, developmental delay, physical disability, traumatic brain injury or

WATERPARK: MORGAN’S WONDERLAND INCLUSION FOUNDATION; BASEBALL: MIRACLE LEAGUE

fun for all / S P E C I A L

EMPOWERING

FAMILIES AND CHILDREN TO MOVE MOUNTAINS

We serve children whose diagnoses may include Autism, ADHD, ADD, OCD and ODD • Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

• Play Therapy

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

• Therapeutic Games and Books

• Social Skills Training and Problem Solving

• Parenting/behavior solutions— parent training and coaching

Early Intervention Program 2–5 yrs old

Bridge Program 4–6 yrs old

Transition Program 7–10 yrs old

Maintenance Program 8–13 yrs old

LOCATIONS IN FLOWER MOUND, GRAPEVINE & TROPHY CLUB

Office: (972) 410-5297 Fax: (972) 410-5270

abc-pediatrics.com

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dfwchild.com / june 2021

49

fun for all / S P E C I A L other special needs. Multiple locations; asigymnastics.com/ gymmie-kids

24Enroll your kiddo in

PALLA’S MOVEMENT at THE PALAESTRA GYMNASTICS

in Farmers Branch. The class gives children with special needs the opportunity to participate in a developmental gymnastics program designed to boost physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills. Farmers Branch; 972/620-9922, thepalaestradallas. com/class-information

25

You can introduce kiddos as young as 3 to gymnastics through Plano Parks & Recreation’s ADAPTED GYMNASTIC CLASSES. Various sessions are planned; the earliest begins August 1. Plano; 972/9417250, planoparks.org

Horse Riding and Equine Therapy

Therapeutic horseman26 ship programs are offered to individuals with special needs

at EQUEST. The organization’s therapeutic riding instructors teach equestrian skills to those with physical, cognitive, sensory, learning or emotional needs. For those who can’t or do not want to ride a horse, Equest offers therapeutic carriage driving. Equest also provides equine-assisted learning that is ground-only. Dallas; 972/412-1099, equest.org

NEEDS

at 29The instructors have experience KELLER ATA MARTIAL ARTS

working with students who have autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other needs. Students can even participate in tournaments. Keller; 817/3379493, kellerata.com

Multi-Activity Groups

Canoeing, 30 parasailing, wakeboarding, tubing,

rugby and more—practically nothing is off limits for kids who spend their summer playing with

RISE ADAPTIVE SPORTS. The organization’s name comes from its mission to help those with physical challenges recover, inspire, succeed and empower themselves and others.

All programs are free.

Grapevine; 469/762-5075, riseadaptivesports.org

31

SPECIAL NEEDS GYMNASTICS offers

gymnastics and a whole lot more—swimming, cycling, fitness, art, music and life skills programs for children and young adults. Classes are designed to build physical, mental, emotional and social skills. Camps are available in addition to classes. Southlake; 806/4383227, ilovesng.org

equine therapy Teens with special 27Try through 32 needs will keep busy , which works with and have fun at the same WITH WINGS

AMY’S WISH

kids who have special needs. The program is located at Ride With Pride Horsemanship School.

Southlake; 817/999-8332, amyswishwithwings.com

Martial Arts

28

MY MARTIAL ARTS in Dallas offers its adaptive training program for children and adults with special needs.

The program is designed to provide mental, emotional and physical benefits. There’s even a belt-ranking system for kids with special needs. Dallas; 469/284-8226, mymartialartsdfw.com/adaptive-trainingprogram-special-needs

50

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

time with SOUTHLAKE’S SPORTS SATURDAYS

program. Sports Saturdays (for age 14 and up) will let participants enjoy the outdoors and learn baseball, basketball, kickball and soccer. Go online for the schedule.

Southlake; 817/748-8019, experiencesouthlaketexas. com/375/adaptive-recreation

Nature Exploration

Let your older teen 33 or young adult (ages 16–23) explore nature

through Plano Parks & Recreation’s ADAPTED

OUTDOOR NATURE CAMP. Oak Point Park and

Nature Preserve provides the perfect setting for observing nature, using binoculars and doing other hands-on activities. Camps are scheduled for June and into early July. Plano; 972/941-7250, planoparks.org

Swimming + Water Fun

34

AQUA TOTS SWIM SCHOOLS’ SPECIAL NEEDS AQUATIC PROGRAM (S.N.A.P.) is

dedicated to increasing water safety and enjoyment among children of all abilities. Contact your local Aqua Tots location for information on program availability. Multiple locations; aqua-tots.com While private les35 sons are available for children with special needs

at EMLER SWIM SCHOOL, the school integrates those kiddos into traditional group lessons if possible.

Emler group lessons are kept small—four students per instructor for most classes, and six students per class when parents get in the water with their littles. Multiple locations; emlerswimschool.com

Book lessons with 36 Mr. Kaleb—headswimmer-in-charge at

MR. KALEB’S SWIM SKOOL—

for your child with special needs. Lessons take place in private pools across Tarrant County. Multiple locations; 817/925-8907 (text), facebook.com/mrkalebsswimskool Arrange for a 37 swim instructor to come to you through

SUNSATIONAL SWIM SCHOOL, which offers a

program for students with autism, physical disabilities, ADHD and other nspecial

S e r v i c e S m ay i n c l u d e :

Improving Healthcare for Children

wavehealthcare.com 866-935-WAVE (9283)

Diapers & Underpads Formula & Feeding Pumps Ventilators High Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) Suction Devices Concentrators Oxygen Pulse Oximeter Monitor CPAP/BiPAP Cough Assist Devices IPV Nebulizers & Medication Chambers 50 PSI Nebulizer for CF Therapy Portable Vest Baby Scale

Pediatric Respiratory Home Medical Equipment

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51

fun for all / S P E C I A L

38

your 39Mark calendar for the

SPECIAL NEEDS SWIM TIME at Hurst’s Central

Aquatics Center. On June 18 (6:30–8:30pm), kids with special needs, families and caregivers get exclusive access to the pool at no cost. Hurst; 817/788-7327, hursttx.gov/ centralaquatics

40

FLIPKICK SWIM ACADEMY

offers one-on-one special abilities lessons that are 10 minutes in length, four days a week, over six weeks. Swimmers can learn everything from how to float and control breathing plus jumping and diving in the pool.

Fort Worth and North Richland Hills; 817/4384949, flipkick.org/specialprograms

41

Irving Parks & Recreation gives members of the specialneeds community the opportunity to swim without crowds through the monthly AquaStars program. It is open to age 18 and under, and participants must be accompanied by an adult. During summer, AQUASTARS is held at West Irving Aquatic Center, which has waterproof wheelchairs.

Irving; 972/721-7311, cityofirving.org/2735/ aquastars-for-specialneeds-children 52

Swim classes for 42 individuals with special needs are available

NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

at AQUAFIT OF PLANO. Monday classes are best suited to adults, as there is an aqua-fitness component; the Saturday classes are full swim and open to kids.

A parent must be in the water. Plano; 972/578-7946, aquafitplano.com

Catch a wave on the 43 FlowRider at Jack Carter Pool in Plano. The ADAPTED FLOWRIDER CLASS is geared toward

those with special needs (you must be at least 42 inches to ride the bodyboard and 48 inches to take a stand-up ride). There are options in June, July and August. Plano; 972/9417250, planoparks.org

Tennis

on the court 44Get with a tennis ACEING AUTISM,

program at the University of Texas at Dallas in Richardson. ACEing Autism is designed to help individuals with autism develop and benefit from social bonds and fitness.

Summer programs are available for kids and adults June 5–July 17.

Richardson; dallas@aceingautism.org, aceingautism. org/dallas-tx

Yoga

The Semones 45 Family YMCA is offering weekly

VIRTUAL ADAPTIVE YOGA. Go

online for Zoom session info. Virtual; ymcadallas. org/locations/town_north/ programs/special_needs

( ARTS )

Performance & Fine Arts

46

DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER

offers its Blue Pegasus Players program for kids with special needs such as autism, sensory processing disorders and

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Down syndrome. Monday through Friday summer class sessions—where kids will act, move, make a play and other activities— are available during select weeks in June (virtual) and July (in person) for kids ages 10–18. Go online to find a social story about the in-person classes. Dallas and virtual; 214/978-0110, dct.org

Children and adults 51 49 with cognitive disa abilities can get involved in

PLANO PARKS & RECREATION offers VIRTUAL DANCE CLUB

drama, music, dance and visual art through NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS’ STARCATCHERS

send a music teacher to your home. There are also virtual options. Multiple locations and virtual; info@ starlightmusiclessons.com, starlightmusiclessons.com

program. Sign up your child—age 8 and up—for a summer production (rehearsals begin June 1 or June 7, depending on the production). You can also get a sense for Starcatchers through a creative art summer camp, also for age 8 and up. Camp sessions, each with a different theme, will be held during various weeks in June, July and August. Plano; starcatchers@ ntpa.org, northtexasperformingarts.org/starcatchers

Introduce your 48 child to music as a therapeutic tool with

Adults with special 50 needs (age 18 and up) can express them-

47

STARLIGHT MUSIC LESSONS will

LAKEWOOD CONSERVATORY OF FINE ARTS’

music therapy program.

Private lessons are open to kids and adults of different abilities and learning styles. Dallas; 214/4551477, lakewoodconservatory.com/music-therapy

selves through art at ART HOUSE in Southlake. A weekly adaptive drawing and painting class begins June 4 and runs through early August. The facility is accessible to wheelchairs.

Southlake; 214/285-0084, studioarthouse.com

for individuals with special needs (age 15 and up). The summer club is set for June 18. Virtual; 972/941-7250, planoparks.org

Movie Showings

52

ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE’s Alamo

For All screenings are for movie fans with special needs as well families with young children. Lights are turned up and sound is turned down; talking, noise and moving around are permitted. Movies that start before 2:05pm on Tuesdays follow Alamo For All rules, as do select matinees on the weekend. Multiple locations; drafthouse.com/ alamoforall

Multiple 53 locations in Dallas-Fort Worth AMC THEATRES

participate in the Sensory Friendly Films program.

Lights are up, sound is down, and guests may walk, dance, sing and

N=MARY POPPINS: NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

eeds. Multiple locations; 888/788-2140, sunsationalswimschool.com/specialneeds-swim-lessons Some YMCA branches offer adaptive swim programs, designed to help swimmers gain confidence and feel more secure around the water. There are programs for preschool kids as well as youth and adults. Ask your local YMCA about its special needs offerings. Multiple locations; ymca.net

NEEDS

Rapid Prompting Method is a teaching method for people with autism that leads to meaningful communication.

Presume Competence

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS 4-ADULT

info@rpmoftexas.com www.rpmoftexas.com 135 E Harwood Rd Hurst, TX 76054

Pediatric Home Health Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy Serving Children Ages: 0–21

Terapia de Lenguaje, Ocupacional y Física

• • •

Highly Experienced Clinical Team Specialized Feeding Program Achieving your child’s greatest potential

Our therapists create a fun and nurturing therapy experience for children with special needs.

Serving the greater DFW area 214-295-5374

fax

Se Habla Español

214-245-5217

sagecaretherapy.com

dfwchild.com / june 2021

53

services.

fun for all / S P E C I A L

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

a resourceful guide for your special needs ABA Team Approach For Success ROCKWALL, GREENVILLE, (NEW) FATE

The Great Adventures: Marigold Summer Camp 2021. Let the adventures begin! Join us for Adventures at the Zoo, The Great Circus, and Camping at Marigold, where each kid can explore nature, wildlife and the great outdoors.

• ABA Therapy • Indoor Motor Lab • Speech Therapy • Social Skills Group • Occupational Therapy • Summer Camp Marigold Learning Academy ABA Therapy Center 401 W. Washington St., Rockwall, TX 75087 972-722-3892 • ContactUs@MarigoldABA.com MarigoldABA.com

A One-Of-A-Kind Camp Camp Summit is a residential camp for children and adults with disabilities where the emphasis is on the campers’ abilities rather than their disabilities. Traditional camp activities are adapted to each camper, provided in our barrier-free facilities, and implemented by trained, caring staff.

Campers are grouped by age, providing the opportunity to make friends within peer groups while experiencing new adventures.

Camp Summit 270 Private Rd. 3475, Paradise, TX 76073 972-484-8900 • camp@campsummittx.org campsummittx.org

shout. Family screenings are on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Multiple locations; amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films Head to 54 for dedicated screenings that are free for GRILL

STUDIO MOVIE

children with special needs and their siblings. (Same drill: lights up, low volume and freedom to make noise and move.) This summer’s films include Cruella, Spirit Untamed, Peter Rabbit 2 and Space Jam: A New Legacy.

Multiple locations; studiomoviegrill.com/movie/special-needsscreenings

( SOCIAL )

Activities + Life Skills

55

Foster a one-on-one friendship for your loved one with special needs through BEST BUDDIES. The organization matches up individuals with and without IDD for an ongoing connection. Best Buddies also provides employment assistance and leadership development.

Multiple locations; bestbuddies. org/texas

56

AWESOME ON THE SPECTRUM promotes

independence for teens and adults with autism spectrum disorder. The Arlington organization holds social skills sessions in addition to providing job assistance, among other services.

Arlington; 682/227-6039, awesomeonthespectrum.org

To advertise in the DFWChild Special Needs Services section, call 972-447-9188 or email advertising@dfwchild.com

to know oth57Get ers through at YMCA North in FRIENDS

SPECIAL

Arlington. A partnership of Arlington-Mansfield area YMCA and MHMR of Tarrant County, Special Friends is open to adults with special needs. Participants build social, organizational and other daily skills while getting creative, being active and having fun. Arlington; 817/548-9622, amaymca.org/programs/healthwellness/special-friends

58

CLUBHOUSE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS provides

a recreational environment for

54

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

NEEDS

young people ages 13–22 (or thereabouts). There’s a lounge, table games, video games, computers and internet access, crafts, puzzles, books and more activities that your child will enjoy.

Bedford; 817/285-0885, theclubhouse.org

59

CENTER FOR ASD

in Burleson promotes social skills and encourages fun.

The Thrive program is split into two groups—one for kids 12 and younger (science activities, crafts and socialization), and the other for age 13 and up (game nights, food and hanging out).

Center for ASD also offers parent groups. New and current families are invited to the center’s summer bash on June 4. Burleson; 682/499-6655, centerforasd.org

Help your child develop 60 the ability to chitchat through in Fort STORY STAGE

Worth. The Art of Chit Chat, to be held in June, uses games and improv to teach kids about tone of voice, body awareness, turn taking and more. Story Stage will also hold a camp at The Key School for Learning Differences.

Fort Worth; 817/989-6399, storystage.com or kcld.org/key-school/ summer-school

Southlake’s 61 (for age 13 and up) offers a weekly social night, with games, CLUB METRO

art, yoga, guests from the fire department or nature center, and more. Southlake; 817/748-8019, experiencesouthlaketexas.com

Get your tween or 62 teen (ages 11–15) out and about with Plano Parks &

Recreation’s July FRIENDSHIP CAMPS. They’ll take part in crafts, swimming and exercise activities. Plano; 972/941-7250, planoparks.org

Arrange for your loved one 63 with special needs (age 14 and up) to take a VIRTUAL LIFE SKILLS CLASS through Plano

Parks & Recreation. Participants will learn about counting money, time management and household chores while building social skills. Classes in June, July and August. Virtual; 972/941-7250, planoparks.org

• Preschool through high school • Small class sizes

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• Rolling admissions throughout school year

• Social learning curriculum at all grade levels

• On-site therapy (speech, OT, and DIRFloortime)

• Preschool and kindergarten classes taught by licensed speech therapists

• Executive functioning curriculum, transition and life skills classes • Counselor and behavior specialist on staff

Oak Hill Academy is dedicated to providing individualized academic and social-emotional learning programs not found in traditional learning environments. Through a multi-sensory instructional model, we take a whole-child approach, preparing our students for life after graduation.

9407 MIDWAY ROAD, DALLAS 75220 | 214-353-8804 | oakhillacademy.org

©

SPECIAL NEEDS TRUSTS AND GUARDIANSHIPS Sign up for Free Workshops at weekslawfirm.com/news-events

5600 Tennyson Parkway, Suite 105 Plano, Texas 75024 214-269-4290 weekslawfirm.com dfwchild.com / june 2021

55

SUMMER OF FUN / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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MAPPING YOUR FAMILY’S

SUMMER

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MESQUITE

FUN

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION

For an interactive map of these attractions, visit dfwchild.com

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SUMMER OF FUN / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MAPPING YOUR FAMILY’S

SUMMER OF FUN Sweet summertime is finally here! This directory features some of the area’s top destinations that are perfect for keeping the whole family entertained all summer long. The best part? We’re giving away at two-night stay at the Gaylord Texan through our Summer of Fun Photo Contest. Learn more on the next page about how you can participate by sharing your Insta-worthy shots.

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Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Fort Worth; cartermuseum.org; 817/738-1933. Join us from home Wednesday mornings in July for weekly storytime and a fun art project using art materials you already have at home.

Denton County Office of History and Culture. Denton; dentoncounty.gov/chos; 940/349-2850. Learn like a local at the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum and the Denton County Historical Park! Explore Denton County’s past. Free admission.

Group tours available by request.

Fort Worth Zoo. Fort Worth; fortworthzoo.org; 817/759-7555.

Experience the Asian elephant herd and greater one-horned rhino splashing, rumbling and roaming around at Elephant Springs. Stand on the edge of adventure today!

Galaxy Theatres. The Colony; galaxytheatres.com/movie-theater/ grandscape; 214/396-8005. Galaxy Theatres brings a first-class entertainment experience to Grandscape. Every auditorium features exceptional picture and immersive audio with luxury stadium seating and full power recliners.

Grandscape. The Colony; grandscape. com; 972/668-2222. Explore, experience and enjoy Grandscape all summer long.

From concerts and festivals to fitness classes and games we have something fun for every age.

Hydrous Wake Parks. Multiple locations; hydrouswakeparks.com; 214/310-1105.

What could be better than spending time on the water learning how to wakeboard? Sign up now. Hydrous Wake Parks camps, parties and lessons.

Irving Archives and Museum.

Irving; irvingarchivesandmuseum.com; 972/721-3700. At Spark!Lab, everyone is inventive. Spark!Lab offers kids

june 2021 / dfwchild.com

opportunities to create, innovate and problem solve, and empowers them to develop skills they need for success.

8.

9.

Kimbell Art Museum. Fort Worth; kimbellart.org; 817/332-8451. Tune in for creative explorations inspired by cultural traditions from across Asia! These virtual offerings will feature art-making guides, live family programming, and videos from artists.

Lakefront Little Elm™. Little Elm; lakefrontlittlelm.com; 972/731-3296.

Best beach in North Texas! Sand volleyball, swimming, kayaks/SUPs, unique restaurants, cable wakeboarding, hike and trails. There’s something for everyone in Little Elm!

10. Maniacs Mansion. Wichita Falls; discoverwichitafalls.com/destinationitem/maniacs-mansion; 940/761-6820. $8 a day for 50 + classic arcade games set to free play. Come-and-go bands allow you to enjoy all of what Wichita Falls has to offer.

11. Mayborn Museum Complex, Baylor University. Waco; maybornmuseum.com; 254/710-1110. The Mayborn Museum Complex sparkles with numerous vibrant exhibits and compelling hands-on activities for the whole family to enjoy over and over again.

12. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Fort Worth; themodern.org; 817/7389215. Where art, architecture, and ideas meet. Named one of the world’s beautiful museums. Showcasing our evolving collection featuring work of historically significant, mid-career, emerging international artists.

13. Panther Island Pavilion. Fort Worth; pantherislandpavilion.com; 817/698-0700.

The Panther Island Pavilion Beach is open daily June 27 through Labor Day. Enjoy tubing, watersports rentals, concessions, music and more along the Trinity River.

14. Pump It Up. Dallas, pumpitupparty. com/south-dallas-tx; 972-345-5253. Our indoor arenas offer gigantic inflatables ideal for your child’s 100% private birthday party or check our online calendar for our public play times.

15. Reunion Tower. Dallas; reuniontower. com; 214/712-7040. Reunion Tower is the top spot for family fun! See Dallas from a whole new perspective with breathtaking 360-degree views. Visit reuniontower.com for tickets.

16. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Grand Prairie; ripleys.com/grandprairie; 972/263-2391.

Have an unbelievable summer at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Discover the odd and bizarre in our 5 different attractions!

17. River Bend Nature Center. Wichita Falls; riverbendnaturecenter.org; 940/767-0843.

Plenty to see and observe! The Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a one-of-akind, state-of-the-art, 7,000 sq. ft. glass structure, home to many live exhibits.

18. Twin Coves Park & Campground.

Flower Mound; twincovespark. com; 972/874-6399. Located on Lake Grapevine, Twin Coves Park & Campground is the perfect and convenient escape into nature for those living in the DFW area.

19. Water Works Park | Denton Parks and Rec. Denton; dentonwaterworks.com; 940/349-8800. Open daily Memorial Day-Labor Day. Enjoy a wave pool, giant outdoor slides, toddler slides, a children’s play pool, a lazy river, concessions, and more.

20. Wichita Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau. Wichita Falls; discoverwichitafalls.com; 940/761-6820.

Fall in love with the Falls! Home to fascinating playtime options, from water parks, gaming centers, live theatres and unique artistic and educational programs.

SUMMER OF FUN / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Win a family getaway!

DFWCHILD’S

SUMMER

FUN PHOTO CONTEST OF

Join in on the Summer Fun Photo Contest and play with DFWChild on Instagram. With every shared photo, you will be automatically entered to win our prize:

A two-night stay for four at the Gaylord Texan!

Here’s how to enter: 1

Follow @dfwchildmag on Instagram

2

Visit any Summer Fun Map locations

3

Snap a picture and post it to Instagram

4

Use hashtag #DFWChildSummerFun and be sure to tag us @DFWChildMag

Contest closes July 31 at 11:59 pm. Winners will be announced on August 3.

Winners selected at random. Must be 21 years or older to enter.

dfwchild.com / june 2021

59

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEST

Summer EVER

Has there ever been a summer where kids needed camp more than this year?

Childhood summer memories and camp go hand-in-hand. Explore these safe and fun camp options that will make this a summer to remember.

Additional camps online at dfwchild.com/camps

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP

Our ABA therapy services will make you a happy camper!

Summer Camp at The Behavior Exchange combines expert ABA therapy services with a fun curriculum of activities to bring about measurable improvements in children with autism and other developmental concerns. For more than 20 years, we’ve helped children communicate better, successfully participate in group activities, get ready for school, and develop their social skills — all in our uniquely colorful, caring learning environment. You’ll love the sweet results. Plus, our services are covered by most insurance.

So call to reserve a spot today!

Plano Hive: 6105 Windcom Ct. Suite 400. Plano, Texas 75093 Frisco Hive: 8501 Wade Blvd. Building 12. Frisco, Texas 75034 972-312-8733 • behaviorexchange.com

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june 2021 / dfwchild.com

Techie Factory has the best summer camps in town.

We offer Digital Creation, Coding, and Esports. With camp options such as YouTube/TikTok Creators, Coding in Mindcraft, LEGO Robotics, DJ, Intro to Python, Shoutcasting/ Esports, Roblox Game Makers, and more; we have something for every kiddo!

Full day, half day, and mini camps available.

Use code DFWCHILD and save 20% if you sign up before June 1st. With locations in Dallas and McKinney, we have one near you. Camp schedules available online.

Dallas: Lover Ln. & the Tollway • techiefactory.com McKinney: Custer & 121 • techiefactory.com/frisco 214-614-8166

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Our STEAMtastic Challenge Island Camps are the perfect destination for your child during summer vacation!

Each week our camps give kids the opportunity to create, experiment and explore different themes, making Challenge Island camps feel like actionpacked vacations in their own right.

Challenge Island-West Plano/North Dallas 17630 Davenport #103, Dallas, TX 75252 469-779-7844 challenge-island.com/westplano-northdallas Direct link to registration page: login.challenge-island.com/events. php?location=64

Kids need camp! Join Kidventure, where for 26 years, we have provided the most dynamic and rewarding camps in Texas. Several Day Camp locations in DFW for children ages 3–5th grade. Opportunities for athletics, art, archery, rock climbing, camp games, learning, and so much more. All-adult teams, low ratios, and designed to build character and confidence.

Kidventure’s Camps: Preston Hollow, Arlington, Frisco, St. Marks, St. Patrick, Kessler, Mansfield, Overnight Camp 214-303-9789 kidventure.com/dallas-summer-camp

Explore literature in a fun and creative way! At NTPA, kids transform into their favorite storybook characters as they bring popular stories to life on stage. Popular themes like Descendants, Harry Potter, Little Women, Footloose and more!

Taught by professional directors, actors, and singers who have worked everywhere from Broadway to L.A. Ages 5–18.

New students get 50% off!

Locations in Plano, Fairview, Frisco and Dallas 972-422-2575 NTPA.org/camps

Want more camps?

Check out our SUMMER CAMPS DIRECTORY dfwchild.com/camps

dfwchild.com / june 2021

61

past + present

H looking back

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june 2021 / dfwchild.com

HERE’S A THROWBACK: our very first FortWorthChild cover from September 1992. That cattle-riding kiddo is the now grown-up Katie Carr Jacobs, who lives in Dallas and is assistant United States attorney at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. Jacobs was all of 3 years old when she became the C first face of our publication.

M “I remember being so excited to be on the longhorn. Y Eventually, I got a little nervous and started crying. I remember CM my mom coming to get me MY down,” Jacobs recalls. “Also, I CY loved my outfit.”

We love it too! And maybe CMY there’s another cover kid in the K making: Jacobs and husband William are expecting their first child this summer. ­ —Alexis Patterson

Jacobs with her husband, William.

H

LET ME NAVIGATE YOU

HOME

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I can confidently lead you through the process, advocate for your best interests and lovingly guide you home. As a member of the Turner Fortune Real Estate team, I am backed by one of DFW's most successful boutique agencies, who place our Client's satisfaction above all else. Contact me today so I can guide you and your family to your next dream home.

ROB SUMNER REALTOR®

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BABY QUESTION #60

WHEN CAN MY BABY BEGIN EATING SOLID FOODS?

Newborn questions? We’ve got answers.

When you’re a new parent, the questions never end. At Cook Children’s, our pediatricians are here to help answer all of them. Schedule a consultation with a pediatrician, explore articles from experts and sign up for a free newborn class at newborncenter.org.

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