DFWChild October/November 2022 by DFWChild

OCTOBER/ N O V E M B E R 2022

BAT CRAZY! FIND THEIR HIDING PLACES T H E M A G A Z I N E PA R E N T S L I V E B Y I N D A L L A S -F O R T W O R T H

FALL FAMILY FUN IDEAS

HOW NOT TO BE THE PERFECT PARENT

OH BABY HOW TO ASK FOR THE HELP YOU NEED

MEET PENNE POMODORO’S

ANNA LOMBARDI DAIGLE

SHOW & TELL HOW TO DECODE YOUR CHILD’S ART

MOM APPROVED

DENTISTS ORTHODONTISTS AND SPECIALISTS

GREATNESS IS REinventing SCOLIOSIS CARE.

Olivia, Scoliosis

We don’t wait around for others to find a better way–we find it ourselves. One of our many discoveries includes identifying a gene for scoliosis that’s transformed treatments worldwide, giving kids like Olivia back their childhood. No wonder our peers rank us #1 for pediatric orthopedics in the Southwest. Every day, we’re defining greatness. scottishriteforchildren.org

Unwrap the joy of the season at Gaylord Texan with endless hours of holiday entertainment and activities for the whole family to enjoy together. NOV. 11 - JAN. 1 ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com

HERE COMES

NORTHPARK CENTER INVITES YOUR FAMILY TO SHARE THE MAGIC OF SANTA CL AUS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. BOOKINGS OPEN NOVEMBER 20, 2022 NORTHPARKCENTER.COM

PRESENTED BY

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT

pages / O C T O B E R / N O V E M B E R

2022

FEATURE 20 Worth a Thousand Words

Certified art therapists share insights for decoding your child’s artwork words Amanda Collins Bernier

DEPARTMENTS NOTED 9 The Pressure to be Perfect

Overcoming perfectionism in parenthood

12 Ask the Experts / Sound Advice

Helping baby—and you—sleep better

REAL MOMS 15 Mom Next Door / Anna Lombardi Daigle A second-generation restauranteur, this mom-of-three juggles family life, running a business and giving back 18 Briefs / That’s Amore

Our Mom Next Door shares her faves

➽ ABOVE // A child’s artwork can offer a peek into their world, revealing their thought process, feelings and more.

BABY 35 Mommy SOS

How to ask your partner for the help you need

39 Mom Groups in DFW

A guide to help you find your tribe

PLAYBOOK 59 Things To Do

30 family fun events

SPECIAL SECTION MOM APPROVED

25 Pediatric Dental Hygiene 101

Basic, at-home care that every parent should know

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ISTOCK

26 Mom-Approved Dentists and Orthodontists Pediatric oral specialists trusted by moms like you

ON THE COVER Cover kid: Apollo, 4, of Argyle Photography: Cindy James / Alyssa Pizer Management Hair/makeup: Gary Parson / Kim Dawson Agency

66 Travel / Castles in Texas

Tour three must-see historic homes inspired by medieval castles

70 Family Fun / Night Flights

Where to watch late-season bat emergences around Texas

74 Family Fun / Festivals Around Texas Pumpkin festivals, Christmas kick-offs and more

COLUMNS 6 Hello / From Baby to Braces

Help in every stage of parenting words Amanda Collins Bernier

78 Looking Back

Scouting the location for a 1989 cover shoot proved a memorable experience for our associate publisher—who was just 5 at the time

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

hello / E D I T O R ’ S

NOTE

from baby to braces

Subscribe to our Email Newsletters

dfwchild.com/subscribe

@dfwchildmag

Find Us on Facebook

facebook.com/dfwchild

Email Us

Let us know what’s on your mind. editorial@dfwchild.com

’LL NEVER FORGET THE FIRST ARGUMENT my husband

and I had as new parents. We hadn’t even left the hospital yet. I couldn’t believe he could do this to me. The crime? He fell asleep. To a deliriously tired new mom who hadn’t slept in days, his shuteye felt unforgivable. Then, as my sleeplessness wore on for weeks, his every snore felt like a betrayal. It’s no secret that babies aren’t usually the best sleepers, and when they’re awake, they’re a lot of work. And often, much of that work—no matter the hour—falls on mom. But for any new mother struggling to make it through the day or giving their partner the stink eye every night, I’ll let you in on a little secret. It’s OK to ask for help. There are many reasons women don’t ask for help in those early days with their little one—and many ways to break that bad habit. In our special Baby section, starting on page 33, you’ll find expert tips for getting the help you need, plus resources for securing support and finding your tribe of like-minded mommies. From baby to braces, this issue also dives into topics for those parents well beyond in the infant years, and everyone in between. From tips for taming your inner perfectionist (page 9), to decoding the hidden meaning in your children’s artwork (page 20), and our annual guide to Mom-Approved dentists and orthodontists in the DFW area (page 26), you’ll find these pages packed with information to help you through the many phases and facets of parenthood. And as fall officially settles in, the Playbook, starting on page 59, features plenty of ways to soak in the season before the hustle of holidays arrives (yes, it’s right around the corner!). Embrace autumn’s spooky vibes by taking the kids bat-watching, or make their royal dreams come true with a tour of one of Texas’s reallife castles. Of course, it’s also the season of fairs, festivals and fall celebrations—and we’ve got it all covered. I hope this issue helps you make the most of this autumn in DFW in with your family—whether that’s getting out for some family fun, or staying in to catch up on some much-needed shuteye.

Amanda Collins Bernier Interim Managing Editor 6

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXIS PATTERSON

ABOVE // Amanda Collins Bernier with her two sons during the sleepless newborn days.

PUBLISHER/ A D V E R T I S I N G D I R E C TO R Joylyn Niebes A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R / E D I TO R I N C H I E F Lauren Niebes E D I TO R I A L Interim Managing Editor Amanda Collins Bernier Contributing Editor Emily McDaniel Contributing Writers Katelin Walling Kelly Wooley D I G I TA L Digital Manager/ Publishing Coordinator Susan Horn Web + Calendar Editor Elizabeth Smith ART Art Director Reneé Higgins ADVERTISING Account Executives Alison Davis Nancy McDaniel Advertising Coordinator Isabel Pisani A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Business Manager Leah Wagner HOW TO CONTACT US: Address: P.O. Box 2269 Addison, Texas 75001 Phone: 800/638-4461 or 972/447-9188 Fax: 972/447-0633 or 972/447-0425 Online: dfwchild.com DFWChild is published bimonthly by Lauren Publications, Inc. DFWChild is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. Additional or back copies are available for $2 per copy at the offices of Lauren Publications, Inc. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. DFWChild is ©2022 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.

Unmatched Academic Results! Come tour a campus and see for yourself!

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Legacy (PS–K) (469) 573-0077 6700 Communications Parkway, Plano Independence (PS–K) (469) 642-2000 10145 Independence Parkway, Plano

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

Every pregnancy is its own journey.

Whether you're a first-time mom or have had a baby before, Texas Health is ready with exceptional, compassionate care tailored to you and your baby. Choose from a comprehensive range of services like pregnancy classes to breastfeeding support and even our free baby app. Maternity care that delivers for your family – it’s how Texas Health cares more.

Learn More at TexasHealth.org/Moms Doctors on the medical staffs practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health hospitals or Texas Health Resources except for resident doctors in the hospital’s graduate medical education program. © 2022 Texas Health Resources

noted.

the pressure to be perfect Perfectionism can stifle joy in motherhood. Here’s how to overcome it

ISTOCK

WORDS KATELIN WALLING

T’S LIKE YOU’RE TRYING TO WALK THIS TIGHTROPE AT ALL TIMES,”

says East Dallas mom of two Lindsay Nordyke, who first realized her perfectionistic tendencies in junior high school. In adulthood—and especially motherhood—she says those unrealistic expectations have become even more apparent. These days, Nordyke’s biggest struggle with perfectionism as a parent is the sheer number of voices out there telling moms and dads what they should be doing. “It can feel really overwhelming to try to do it all right, all the time,” she says. Perfectionists do tend to be “overly concerned about doing everything ‘right’,” says Annie Tam, a licensed professional counselor and owner of Mend Counseling in Dallas. They see things as black and white. When things fall into the gray area, perfectionists think they’re failing. A specific time Nordyke says she fell short of her perfectionistic ideal was breastfeeding. “When my 10-year-old was born, that was at the height of ‘breast DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

noted / T H E

PRESSURE TO BE PERFECT

is best’ instead of ‘fed is best’,” she says. After struggling, Nordyke saw a lactation consultant, who told her to either nurse or pump and then supplement, but not all three for every feeding. “I remember that being so huge,” Nordyke recalls, adding that it released her from the pressure, allowing her to relax and bond with her infant. WHAT CAUSES PERFECTIONISM?

Equipping children with learning differences, academically and spiritually.

A lot of the time it’s learned behavior, modeled by your own parents. It’s not that your parents expected you to be perfect, it’s that your mom expected herself to be perfect, says Tam. It can also be an innate part of your personality, which can be determined with the Enneagram personality assessment. “I’m a number one on the Enneagram and know very well just what it’s like—to be a perfectionist, to be a mom, to be an entrepreneur—and how that influences how I see things,” Tam says. “I’ve had to work really hard to see the gray, and to not look at things as just black and white.” Outside influences, like social media or the community around us, can also feed into the need for perfection, says Erin Booher, Ph.D., a counselor with a private practice in Fort Worth. For example, a mom in your parent group announces her child was named Class Leader for the week, and you think, well, now my child needs to be Class Leader.

“ANYTIME YOU’RE TRYING TO WALK THAT TIGHTROPE, AND YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’RE FALLING TO ONE SIDE OR THE OTHER, JUST REALIZE THAT THE ROPE IS WIDER THAN YOU THINK.”

• Serving students in grades 1–8 • Multi-sensory, success-oriented teaching approach • 6 to 1 student to teacher ratio • Positive, nurturing environment HILLIER SCHOOL 3821 UNIVERSITY BLVD. DALLAS, TX 75205 214-525-6600 | HILLIERSCHOOL.ORG

ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTS NOW! We carry a complete line of imported and domestic nuts, dried fruit and seeds, chocolate candies, gift baskets, and more!

EFFECTS OF PERFECTIONISM

Vending Nut Company 2222 Montgomery St. Fort Worth 76107 817-737-3071

BUY ONLINE OR IN-STORE

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2022.

Ideal for holiday and special occasions, gift items for teachers, friends, relatives, customers or employees.

VendingNutCo.com

OVERCOMING PERFECTIONISM

Here are a few things you can do to help shift your perfection-focused mindset: Become aware of your tendencies. As with anything you may struggle with, recognizing perfectionism is the first step in overcoming it. Figure out how these tendencies look and the role they play in your life, Tam suggests. Talk about it. Whether you’re a new mom or the parent of a high schooler, Tam suggests talking to friends, family, a therapist, or a support group. After all, not talking about something you struggle with causes feelings of guilt or shame, she adds. If you have elementary-age kids and older, be open with them about your struggle with perfectionism in an age-appropriate manner. “When they see you struggle, they see that getting to the end is more about the process than the final product,” Booher says, adding that you’re modeling resiliency for your kids. Work on reframing your way of thinking. Rather than think you failed because you ordered take out instead of cooking, for example, focus on the fact that you are providing sustenance for your family. Your best, on any given day, is not the same as someone else’s best, Booher says. Take a look at the language you use. How prevalent is allor-nothing language in your vocabulary? How often do you think in black and white? “Start replacing that or reframe that in a way that is more accepting or more in the gray,” Tam says. Find ways to manage your anxiety. Parents may feel guilty or anxious for not doing something the “right” way, Tam says. Figure out what works for you to reduce anxiety, whether it’s yoga, meditating, breathing exercises, or going for a walk. Avoid comparing yourself to others. Easier said than done, right? But as Theodore Roosevelt said, “comparison is the thief of joy.” Use the skill of reframing to become confident in your abilities rather than thinking about how you’re “failing” compared to other moms, Booher suggests. Give yourself some grace. At the end of the day, it’s impossible to get it all right all of the time. So, “anytime you’re trying to walk that tightrope, and you feel like you’re falling to one side or the other,” Nordyke says, “just realize that the rope is wider than you think it is.”

Striving to do everything “right” negatively affects the perfectionist, their partner, and their children. For one, “whenever you’re so worried about doing it all perfectly, it’s hard to be present with your child and to enjoy all of the different stages that your child is going through,” says Tam, who also co-founded A+K Collective, which offers retreats, coaching, and workshops for moms. Perfectionists also tend to be critical, focus on what’s wrong, and place extra anxiety and pressure on themselves, Tam and Booher say. But the biggest thing to keep in mind? Children of perfectionists feel like they can never live up to their parents’ expectations, Tam says—even if their parents don’t overtly place expectations of perfectionism on them.

Tickets as low as $17!

Yippee!

A super fun jazz musical to get you in the holiday spirit!

NOV. 27 – DEC. 23 Ages 5 and up

dct.org

214-740-0051

5938 Skillman @ NW Hwy. Dallas, TX 75231 Always FREE parking

Music & Lyrics by Harry Connick, Jr. Book by Lauren Gunderson & Andrew Fishman Directed by K. Doug Miller Harry Connick, Jr.’s THE HAPPY ELF produced through special arrangement with Music Theatre International www.MTIshows[dot]com.

R E V O C S I D OMETHING NEW SO

P IN N A CLE M OUNT STAT E A IN PA R K

Looking for new adventures for your family and friends? Come together at Arkansas’s 52 state parks and experience endless possibilities. Plan your adventure at ArkansasStateParks.com.

CRATER OF DIAMONDS STATE PARK

Pick up your FREE PASSPORT at the nearest state park today.

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

noted / A S K

THE EXPERTS

SOUND ADVICE Your parenting questions and dilemmas, solved COMPILED BY ALEXIS PATTERSON

THE EXPERT: Mary Cantwell Rest To Your Nest, resttoyournest.com Best Sleep Specialist, DFWChild 2022 Best for Families Awards

Q: “How do I get my baby to sleep through the night?” —Lauren, Dallas A: New parents are often asked, “Is the baby sleeping through the night yet?” The crazy thing is that none of us sleep through the night! We wake up, go through multiple cycles, crest at the top of a sleep cycle and put ourselves back to sleep without even realizing it. So, I would pose this question: How do we build and maintain a solid sleep routine and foundation? No matter our child’s age, the most underutilized tool is sleep environment. Here are the optimal elements for a sleep-conducive environment: Cool temperature. Have a temperature of 68–72 degrees. Dark room. Absence of light cues our body for sleep. Sound machine and colored night lights. Use a sound machine to help replicate the womb and soften outside sounds. If older kids need a night light, or for night feedings for babies, utilize a red or orange night-light or feeding light, as those hues promote melatonin production. Separate sleep space. Babies should use a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet until they outgrow it; a playard and then a bed can be used for older kids. 12

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

Swaddle or sleep sack. A swaddle will soften the startle reflex. Transition to a sleep sack when your baby starts to roll. No electronics. The blue light from these devices inhibits melatonin production. For newborns, circadian sleep rhythms are highly immature and focus on sorting out day and night confusion. To help this process, keep the lights on and use a regular tone of voice during your baby’s awake time. When it is sleep time, bring down your voice, lower the lights and keep the house more quiet. For guidance on when to lay your baby down, utilize age-appropriate wake windows (the period between when they wake until the next nap) in conjunction with sleep cues (such as yawning, staring into space, rubbing eyes). Newborns can handle 45–60 minutes of wake time before getting overtired, something that makes it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep longer. So, when your baby gets proper rest during the day, they’ll actually sleep better at night. As they reach 6–8 weeks, babies can start to follow simple cues, which means it’s time to implement a brief sleep routine. The routine could go something like this: sound machine, light on low, diaper change, swaddle, lights out, rock, and lay baby down drowsy but still aware. You will notice bedtime moving earlier as your child gets closer to 4 months, which is also when circadian sleep rhythms are mature. At that point, or when you and your baby are ready, utilize your chosen sleep-teaching method. The method you choose is completely up to you. Sleep will change as babies grow and develop. A solid sleep environment, sleep routine and age-appropriate schedule will help you through every stage. If you have a parenting question that you’d like our experts to answer, message us on Instagram @dfwchildmag or email us at editorial@dfwchild.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF REN MORRISON PHOTOGRAPHY; ISTOCK

SWEET SLUMBER

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS

ALL NEW!

STOCKYARDS STYLE!

HOLIDAY ICE RINK WEEKEND PHOTOS WITH SANTA SPECTACULAR LIGHTS EXCITING RODEOS & PLENTY OF SURPRISES 12 DAYS OF DROVER

FOR INFORMATION AND TICKETS VISIT FO RT WO RT H STO C K YA RDS .C O M

131 E. EXCHANGE AVE. FORT WORTH, TX 76164 © 202 2 STO C K YA RDS H E RI TAG E D EV E LO P M E NT C O.

@STO C K YA R DSSTATI O N @ F WSYSTAT I O N

real moms.

RÉSUMÉ NAME Anna Lombardi Daigle AGE 46 HAILS FROM Dallas CURRENTLY LIVES IN

Lakewood ALMA MATER

University of San Diego OCCUPATION Owner of Penne Pomodoro SIBLINGS Sarah, 39; and Laura, 44 HUSBAND Marc CHILDREN Stella, 12; Ethan, 10; and Andrew, 8 FUN FACT Her first job out of college was working at a car dealership

mom next door /

ANNA LOMBARDI DAIGLE Taking a seat at the table

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY TWOMEY PHOTOGRAPHY

I N T E R V I E W K E L LY W O O L E Y

➽ ABOVE // Anna Lombardi Daigle talks juggling business, motherhood and philanthropy.

NNA LOMBARDI DAIGLE AND HER TWO YOUNGER SISTERS grew up in

the restaurant business. Their Italian-born father, Alberto, opened his first restaurant, Lombardi’s, in 1977. Today, he owns 18 different eateries and shows no signs of slowing down. So, it would seem only natural that Lombardi Daigle would grow up and join the family business. But not so fast, Lombardi Daigle says. There was a time when she “refused to go into the restaurant

business”—instead working in the title department at a car dealership after graduating from college. The mom of three also thought she’d never have children, picturing herself much more as the “fun aunt” type. But Lombardi Daigle describes meeting husband Marc as fate—and the catalyst for wanting children of her own. One could say the same about her eventually following in her dad’s footsteps, becoming a restauranteur in her own right. DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

real moms

/ MOM NEXT DOOR

DFWCHILD: HOW DID YOU AND MARC MEET? ANNA LOMBARDI DAIGLE: After moving

back from New York, we were the only single people at a party a mutual friend of ours hosted. Looking back, it might have been a set up. We had so much in common, it felt like kismet. Unfortunately, though, the timing wasn’t right for either one of us.

Do you ever feel like you’re missing out on your own party?

DFWCHILD: BUT YOU MANAGED TO FIND EACH OTHER AGAIN? ALD: Yes, we ran into each other eight

Enjoy your guests without worrying about refilling drinks or food.

months later and the rest is history. We’ve been married for 16 years now.

+ We setup, serve your food and drinks, and clean up—dishwashing included!

DFWCHILD: YOU’VE MENTIONED THAT YOU NEVER SAW YOURSELF BEING A RESTAURANTEUR. WHAT CHANGED THAT? ALD: After a year of working at the car

+ No event is too small—dinner parties, kids birthday parties, showers, holiday get-togethers, etc.

dealership, I went to work for my dad, learning about the business and finance side of owning a restaurant which I really enjoyed.

+ Very affordable, flat hourly charge per Host-Hand + All Host-Hands are English speaking and background checked

DFWCHILD: BUT INSTEAD OF JOINING THE FAMILY BUSINESS, YOU MOVED TO NEW YORK. IS THAT WHERE YOU BECAME MORE PASSIONATE ABOUT THE FOOD INDUSTRY? ALD: My dad had a con-

simplyhosteasy.com ©

comes with higher expectations than working for someone else. But, overall, he’s been great about stepping back and letting me do things on my own. And my sisters and I are super close, so even if we disagree about something, we’re able to easily let it go.

DFWCHILD: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER MOMS TRYING TO BALANCE A DEMANDING CAREER AND MOTHERHOOD? ALD: It’s impossible to do it all. I tried to do

everything and then realized I couldn’t. It truly takes a village. Take turns with other parents on taking kids to their various activities. Learn to graciously say “no.” It was hard at first, but you’ll be surprised by the respect and understanding people have for that. I try to focus on doing the things that really light me up. If it doesn’t, I don’t do it.

Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2022.

DFWCHILD: WHAT ABOUT BEING A MOM HAS SURPRISED YOU THE MOST? ALD: I’ve never been a

“warm and fuzzy” person so I had no idea what kind of love it would really feel like. It’s the most powerful emotion you can ever experience.

DFWCHILD: WHAT ABOUT PARENTHOOD DO YOU FIND THE MOST CHALLENGING? ALD: We just want our children to be good

DFWCHILD: YOUR TIME IN NEW YORK WAS SOMEWHAT SHORT LIVED, WAS THAT BECAUSE OF 9/11? ALD: Partially. I moved to New York at the

human beings. With all the social media out there, children have forgotten how to communicate, look people in the eyes and to be polite and have conversations with people.

DFWCHILD: AND FINALLY YOU WERE INSPIRED TO JOIN THE FAMILY BUSINESS? ALD: My dad had opened Penne Pomodoro

volved with the Yellow Rose Gala, a well-known MS fundraiser. I remember helping her stuff envelopes and do other administrative things as a child. I had no idea of the personal connection, I just thought we were being charitable.

end of 1999 and moved back to Texas in 2002. September 11th really put things in perspective as far as the importance of family, and then my dad called and said he could use some help with his restaurants. Tourism had been a major driver in the success of his restaurants and so he needed to reinvent his approach.

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

DFWCHILD: WORKING WITH FAMILY CAN BRING ABOUT INTERESTING DYNAMICS. HOW DO YOU MAKE IT WORK? ALD: Working for your father definitely

“IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO DO IT ALL.”

nection at Dean and Deluca (a chain of upscale grocery stores), and I started off working there in the cheese department … cutting cheese. I received a promotion fairly quickly that allowed me to work with the other departments, planning out meals and really getting to learn more about the food business.

contact@simplyhosteasy.com

doro location at Preston and Forest Lane.

at Snider Plaza and I really loved the concept. It was so much different than his other restaurants. He perfectly homed in on what was important at the time—an affordable, familyfriendly atmosphere. The food was authentic, the staff was friendly, and it felt similar to the casual, neighborhood bistros in New York.

DFWCHILD: THAT’S WHEN YOU DECIDED TO OPEN A SECOND LOCATION? ALD: At the time, they were giving out small

business loans to women and so I thought, why not apply? The worst they could say is no. And so my dad lent me the money (yes, I did pay him back!) and at age 27, I opened the Penne Pomo-

DFWCHILD: YOUR FAMILY IS BEING HONORED AT A FUNDRAISING LUNCHEON FOR THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY. WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO THE CHARITY? ALD: Growing up, my mom was very in-

DFWCHILD: YOU DIDN’T LEARN ABOUT YOUR MOTHER’S MS DIAGNOSIS UNTIL YOU WERE A TEENAGER? ALD: That’s right. She was diagnosed in 1984

but because her diagnosis was the progressive form, she wasn’t showing many signs yet.

DFWCHILD: I UNDERSTAND YOU WERE RESPONSIBLE FOR FOUNDING THE FUNDRAISER? ALD: I helped co-found the luncheon with

Carla Rosenberg 15 years ago. It’s a very special honor to see how our family’s involvement has come full circle.

TCU Music Preparatory Division

From early childhood music to private lessons for all ages, TCU’s Music Preparatory Program offers a wide variety of instruction. Music Together for infants to age 8, private piano, voice, instrumental and string lessons for all levels. • Private Lessons, Piano & Instrumental (ages 6–adult): 817-257-7604 • Computer Lab for Theory Instruction: 817-257-5458 • Private Voice Lessons (ages 12–adult): 817-257-7604 • Private Lessons in Strings (ages 3–adult): 817-257-5505 • Music Together® (infant–age 4): 817-257-6134 • Music Together® Rhythm Kids™ (ages 4–8): 817-257-6134 • Music Together® Generations (infant–age 4): 817-257-6134

musicprep.tcu.edu

musicprep@tcu.edu DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

BRIEFS

THAT'S AMORE Anna Lombardi Daigle’s favorite things

INTERVIEW K E L LY W O O L E Y

FA M I LY FU N TIM E

KE E PI N G TH E S PA R K A LI V E

g With Marc, it’s the little things. Especially since he lives at home now, we can go out for lunch, take a walk together or we may both have a 30-minute break in our schedules where we can just sit and talk.

WITH ALL THE WEEKLY HOMEWORK AND SPORTS, WE TRY TO FOCUS ON EXPERIENCES. WE LOVE TO TRAVEL AND WE ALSO LIKE TO GO ON INDIVIDUAL “DATES” WITH EACH OF THE KIDS.

FAV E LOM BA R D I FA M I LY R E S TAU R A NT S

PA RT Y O F O N E

OUR FAMILY’S TOP THREE ARE PENNE POMODORO, TAVERNA AND TOULOUSE. IT JUST MAKES IT SO EASY, ESPECIALLY WITH ALL THE KIDS’ ACTIVITIES. OUR KIDS HAVE NO IDEA THAT MOST FAMILIES DON’T GET TO EAT AS MUCH LOBSTER AND STEAK AS WE DO.

I thrive on my alone time. I take daily walks around White Rock Lake. No music, no podcasts, I just try to be present in the moment.

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

TR I P O F A LI FE TIM E This summer, we’re taking a bucket list family trip. We’re taking the kids to Europe to show them their roots. We’ll do both London, where my mom is from, and then Italy where my dad is from. As for me, I don’t know why but Vancouver and Montreal both really intrigue me.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMY TWOMEY PHOTOGRAPHY; ISTOCK

real moms /

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

WORDS AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

ISTOCK

How your child’s drawings can offer a peek inside their world

long with leftover snacks and the random twig or rock picked up at recess, there was always a constant in my son’s backpack when he returned home from preschool. Each afternoon as I unloaded the lunchbox and tidied up the cracker crumbs, I would find a crumpled piece of paper with a hand-drawn family portrait—mom, dad, Max, and his little brother Owen. Max was 4 when he started preschool last year, and the transition was tough. He had never been to daycare and spent most of his time at home with me, so the separation hit him hard. Every morning as he hung his coat in his cubby, he would tearfully tell the teacher how much he missed his family. “Why don’t you draw a picture of them?” his teacher would suggest, offering the exercise as both a catharsis and a distraction. And so, every day he would create a new portrait of our family of four. Over time, I noticed his drawings changed. At first the pictures were monotone and drab, but as the weeks went on his artwork DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

evolved. Eventually he added more color, then rainbows, hearts, a house, our pets, and more. Did the change in his doodles signal a shift in his feelings? “Probably,” says Andrea Davis, a board certified art therapist and founder and CEO of Dallas Art Therapy. “Each time a person does art, it’s a snapshot of that moment in time.” Artwork can be an outlet for communication. Sure, sometimes drawings are just drawings, but other times, a child’s art can be a peek into what they are thinking or feeling. “Art, and for young children in particular, drawing, is how they make sense of the world around them,” explains Jashley Boatwright, a board certified art therapist at The Art Station in Fort Worth. “It offers insight into their world, thought process, and feelings.” I asked the experts to look at my son’s drawings, as well as examples of other children’s art, to share what they noticed and reveal what you, as a parent, can glean from your own kiddo’s compositions. The first thing Davis noticed about Max’s early preschool drawing, above, is that he has no arms. While this could mean he was in a hurry or distracted, she says it is sometimes interpreted as feeling “a lack of choice” or helplessness. In the later picture, on the right, she notes that everyone has arms. “That’s improvement and empowerment,” she says. Boatwright remarked how much more detail-oriented his drawing became. “The noses have changed and the ears are more visible. Noticing those little details, I’d ask the child, ‘what does that mean to you?’”

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

These family portraits by 9-year-old twin girls illustrate how each sees their family and their place in it. On the left, the artist drew her family coloring pictures of their interests together. “As a family, they do things together, and they are pretty dynamic,” Davis interprets. On the right, the artist drew her family sitting on the couch. Her little brother is crying, clinging to his mother, whose thought bubble is a scribble. Davis noticed a few hints of sibling rivalry. In the first picture, the artist drew herself, second from the right, with a rainbow dress, while she left her twin sister’s dress uncolored. Her little brother is on the floor; the only one without an easel. In the second picture, the artist drew the twins the same size as their baby brother. “I think he’s identifying with dad,” Davis says of the later picture, noting that he drew both himself and his father with the same mismatched eyes and feet. “He’s saying, ‘I am like you; I am of you.” Around age 6 or 7, most children begin to draw people, animals or objects on a baseline or groundline, Davis explains. This drawing, by a 6-year-old boy, “looks pretty normal,” she says, pointing out the tree, person and house on the groundline. “If there is a groundline but things are still floating in the air, I like to explore that,” Davis says. “When things don’t feel secure, I think it can sometimes show in this way—not grounded, in limbo.”

Are you looking for meaning in your child’s drawings or ways to connect with them through their art? Here are a few things to keep in mind: • Pay attention to patterns or changes. Look at the drawings over time; does something show up over and over again? Or, is there a sudden change in what or how your child draws? “Be mindful of patterns, looking for repetitions and asking open-ended questions,” says Boatwright. “Then, listen. We tend to want to get to the answer quickly, but patience cannot be overemphasized.” • Don’t project your own ideas. Boatwright remembers a time when she told a child how much she loved the cat he drew. The child went on to tell his friends all about the cat, but when Boatwright looked back on what he wrote about the illustration, he said he drew a dog. “We forget the influence adults can have,” she says. “Instead of guessing, ask ‘what does this mean? What did you draw here?’”

This drawing by a 10-year-old girl shows a child sitting on a swing on an island. There are clouds and a flower without a bloom. “This really speaks for itself,” says Davis. “Loneliness can be a hard emotion for a 10-year-old to express, but boy can they with their art.” Davis says she would use this drawing as a springboard to open up a conversation with the child about her needs and find support. A 6-year-old boy drew this family portrait, above right. He and his mom (with the Sshaped legs) are sitting on the floor playing Connect 4, and the rest of the family is standing around watching. “This really shows where he’s at,” Davis says. “He’s really bonded to his mom and wants her all to himself.”

DECODING YOUR CHILD’S ARTWORK

Art therapists like Boatwright and Davis are trained in interpreting artwork, and while research tells us that doodles do, in fact, tell a story, not every artistic endeavor needs to be— or can be—analyzed. “A lot of times when people approach art therapy they say, ‘can you look at my art and tell me things I don’t know?’” says Davis. “They tend to think it can be magically interpreted, but that’s not the case. It’s more that it opens the door for questions to be asked and things to be talked about.”

• Be aware of troubling artwork. Not everything you think of as worrisome actually is—children use art to make sense of things they see and experience, and sometimes are just processing through artwork. Still, the experts say violence, guns, images of being captured, drawings that seem sexual in nature, heavy coloring in the genital area, or drawing body parts that they never had before warrant looking into. “It would be important to understand the context,” says Boatwright. “Ask what it means.” • Use art to help kids open up. Have a child associate a different color to feeling happy, sad, mad and scared. Once they have assigned a color to each feeling, draw a big circle on a piece of paper and fill it in with the chosen colors. Hang it on the wall to allow the child to point to the color they feel in different circumstances. “From there, you can say, ‘let’s draw a picture of what that looks like,’” says Davis. “This helps children develop a healthy emotional language and connect that those feelings are real.”

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

whatever works for them. A sure way to get your kid excited is letting them pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste. The ADA says that manual or powered toothbrushes can be used effectively. Electric brushes for 3 and older are often equipped with a 2-minute timer with 30-second pulses so you can be prompted to start and stop when the time’s up. (Beware of heavily marketed mouthpiece toothbrushes, which have not been endorsed by the ADA or widely tested to show their effectiveness.)

Pediatric Dental Hygiene 101 BASICS FOR DAILY, AT-HOME ORAL CARE EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW

START FLOSSING WHEN THE TEETH TOUCH

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

“NOPE, NO CAVITIES TODAY!” Hearing this good news from your child’s dentist can feel like a major achievement. A miracle, even. But it’s in between those office visits where the real magic happens. To learn which daily, at-home habits are most essential, we reviewed a few basics in pediatric dental hygiene, as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA), and found some myth-busting reasons why early dental care sets up your child for a happy and healthy future.

BEGIN ORAL CARE AT BIRTH

Did you know your child’s oral hygiene routine can begin before they even start teething? During the first few days after birth, the ADA recommends cleaning your infant’s mouth by gently wiping their gums after each feeding. You can do this with a washcloth or a gauze pad that’s clean and moist. This helps remove plaque that can harm erupting teeth—and those baby teeth matter. “Nature’s braces,” as they’re sometimes called, hold the spots in the jaws for the permanent teeth growing underneath, and those permanent teeth can drift if a baby tooth is lost too early. Years down the line, this can lead to crooked or crowded teeth. Baby teeth are essential for helping a child chew and speak and even smile—and we live for those baby smiles. FINISH BOTTLES BEFORE BEDTIME

To help prevent what’s called baby bottle tooth decay, the ADA recommends never putting your

baby to bed with a bottle in their mouth. Otherwise, their teeth will be bathed in sugary liquids— milk, formula, fruit juice—for a prolonged time period. That potential tooth decay most often appears in the upper front teeth but could be any teeth, and if severe decay develops, it’s possible their baby teeth cannot be saved and will need to be extracted by a dentist. SCHEDULE THAT FIRST DENTAL VISIT

Don’t wait to plan for a first appointment with your dentist. But when’s the right time? The sweet spot for a “well-baby checkup” is within six months after your child’s first tooth appears but before they turn 1 year old. Why so early? Because with teeth comes the potential for cavities. A dentist will examine your child’s jaw and teeth for development and offer their expert, personalized advice on the best oral care, pacifier use, teething and how to brush your child’s teeth.

START BRUSHING WITH TOOTHPASTE

Again, this milestone begins after that first tooth comes through the gums, and using toothpaste with fluoride is key. This mineral, called “nature’s cavity fighter,” has been shown to reduce cavities by 25% and repair weakened enamel. (The ADA also recommends drinking water with fluoride.) The amount of toothpaste you’ll need to use depends upon your child’s age—and it doesn’t take much. For children 3 years and older, you only need a peasized amount. For under 3, it’s a smear the size of a single grain of rice. BRUSH TWICE DAILY FOR TWO MINUTES

For this, you’ll need to supervise your child’s brushing at least until age 6 or brush for them. But brushing morning and night, for two minutes each, or as directed by your dentist, is no small feat. And so how do you supervise? Lead by example and brush your teeth at the same time, too. Crank up the music for a two-minute dance party while brushing or reward their good behavior with a sticker chart—

As soon as your child has two teeth that can touch, it’s time to begin flossing to help remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line. Floss before or after brushing— the ADA says it doesn’t matter when so much as that it does happen, ideally, once daily. Traditional string floss can be difficult for kids (and adults, too!) to wrangle, so try plastic flossers or floss picks. These are singleuse items, and so must be thrown away after use each day. And if your gums bleed regularly while flossing, tell your dentist. USE MOUTHWASH FOR AGE 6 & UP

While not intended to replace brushing and flossing, this additional step in your daily routine can help bring peace of mind that every crevice in their mouth is reached. Kids need to be able to swish and spit, so if your child tends to swallow toothpaste, wait a while longer to introduce mouthwash. All ADA-Accepted mouthwashes for children are alcoholfree. If your child finds mint too intense, try experimenting with bubble gum or other fruity flavors. Be sure not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after rinsing. To learn what readers wrote about our Mom-Approved health care providers, visit our online directory at dfwchild.com /momapproved. You’ll also find an interactive map showing which providers are closest to you.

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

mom approved

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Mom Approved 2022

DENTISTS BIOLOGICAL/ HOLISTIC DENTISTRY ALLEN Baranovitch, Svetlana DDS, SMART-certified Bio Dental DALLAS Davies, Jeff DDS Dallas Designer Smiles

FAMILY DENTISTRY ARLINGTON Gundarpi Thippareddy, Sindhura DDS Arlington Dental Clinic Thomas, Steven DDS Steven W. Thomas DDS COLLEYVILLE Calabria, Patricia DDS Gateway Dental Limosnero, Roland DDS Heritage Family Dentist Porter, Jo Lynn DDS Colleyville Dental Care Thorne, Jennifer DDS Liberty Family Dentistry DALLAS Enoksen, Sigurd DDS Lovers Smile Dental Vanderbrook, Drew DDS Vanderbrook Family Dentistry FORNEY Danahy, Emily DDS LM Family Dentistry

FORT WORTH Cain, Sara DDS Lake Country Dental Stevens, Brooks DDS Dr. Brooks Stevens General Dentistry GARLAND Bounds, John DDS Musso Family Dentistry IRVING Basta, Melody DDS Ideal Dental Las Colinas KELLER Angwin, Kristen DDS Just for Grins Family Dentistry & Orthodontics Corley, Jay DDS Blue Stone Dental Dyer, T. Paul DDS North Tarrant Family Dentistry Gray, Tamara DDS Gray Family Dental LEWISVILLE Henderson, Kenneth DDS Monarch Dental & Orthodontics MANSFIELD Lamun, Christine DMD Ivy Rose Dentistry MIDLOTHIAN Ellis, Jerry R. DDS, PC Dr. Jerry R. Ellis MURPHY Glazer, Brittaney DDS Glazer Family Dentistry See ad on page 33 Jain, Anshu DDS, FAGD Smiles at Murphy

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

PROSPER Patel, Vimal DDS Prosper Smiles Family Dentistry RICHARDSON Bunch, Marcie DDS West Shore Family Dental Morgan, Lily DDS Ellem Dental ROWLETT Chan, Derek DMD Sweet Family Dentistry WYLIE Eggart, Emily DDS Maxwell Creek Family Dentistry

Spruiell, Brittany DDS, MS Bailey Orthodontics FLOWER MOUND Spruiell, Brittany DDS, MS Bailey Orthodontics FORT WORTH Patel, Anthony DMD, MS Anthony Patel Orthodontics

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Sorokolit, Christopher DDS, MS Sorokolit Orthodontics Braces with Heart

ALLEN Kamali, Elizabeth DDS Jupiter Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics

FRISCO Wise, John DDS Wise-Lee Orthodontics

ARLINGTON Hamilton, Randy DMD iKids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

GARLAND Musso, Mark DDS Musso Family Dentistry

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

HASLET Patel, Anthony DMD, MS Anthony Patel Orthodontics

DALLAS Schlieve, Thomas DDS, MD, FACS UT Southwestern Medical Center, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery See ad on page 33

KELLER Giordano, Elisa DMD Just for Grins Family Dentistry & Orthodontics

ORTHODONTICS

Wise, John DDS Wise-Lee Orthodontics

ALLEN Jones, Tamara DDS, MSD Allen Orthodontics See ad on page 33 Lofgren, Trent DDS Creekview Orthodontics COPPELL Henao, Anabella DDS Bliss Orthodontics

RICHARDSON Jones, Tamara DDS, MSD Richardson Orthodontics See ad on page 33

Patel, Anthony DMD, MS Anthony Patel Orthodontics MCKINNEY Lofgren, Trent DDS McKinney Orthodontics

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS Delgado, Michael DDS, MS Delgado Orthodontics See ad on page 32 PLANO Jones, Tamara DDS, MSD Willow Bend Orthodontics See ad on page 33

Ketchel, Jennifer P. DDS, MS Arlington Pediatric Dentistry AUBREY Lee, Karrie DMD Windhaven Pediatric Dentistry BURLESON Michael, Alvin DDS Burleson Pediatric Dentistry CARROLLTON Holt, Jeffrey DDS, MS Kids Dental See ad on page 29 Goodall, E. Blair DDS Children’s Dental Specialists Hutcheson, Candice DDS, MS Children’s Dental Specialists Train, Terri E. DDS, MS Children’s Dental Specialists CEDAR HILL Hamilton, Randy DMD iKids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

mom approved

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Clark, Shelly DDS Shelly K. Clark, DDS Dentistry for Children COLLEYVILLE Ta, Tuong DDS Pediatric Dentistry of Colleyville COPPELL Louca, Sonia DDS Coppell Dentistry for Kids See ad on page 33 Rozas, Melissa DDS Melissa Rozas DDS & Associates of Coppell See ad on page 30 DALLAS Bushey, Nicholas DMD Children’s Dental & Orthodontics Colter, J. Diane DDS All About Kids Dentistry See ad on page 29 Dad, Neema DDS myKIDSdds See ad on page 28 Dragan, Sabrina DMD Plunk & Dragan Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics See ad on page 32 Goodall, E. Blair DDS Office of Dr. Sandra M. Petrocchi & Dr. Luis M. Arango Iwase, Rei DDS Children’s Dentistry of North Dallas Kogut, Mark DDS, MSD myKIDSdds See ad on page 28 Marr, Karina DDS Pediatric Dental Care of Casa Linda Shanadi, Arvind DMD Smile Safari Pediatric Dentistry

Tujios, Aleco DDS, MS Woodhill Dental Specialties

Wilson, Raven DDS Kids Stop Dental

Villaseñor, Alejandra DDS, MS myKIDSdds See ad on page 28

FRISCO Catmull, Jeremy DMD My Kid’s Dentist & Orthodontics

FLOWER MOUND Duffy, Debra DDS, PA Debra C. Duffy DDS, PA See ad on page 32

Davis, Mila DDS Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry See ad on page 27

Whittington, Patrick DDS, MS Whittington Pediatric Dentistry

Lalani, Zarmin DDS, MS Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry See ad on page 33

FORT WORTH Barnett, John DDS Kids Stop Dental

Rubin, Paul DDS Frisco Kid’s Dentistry

Beville III, R. Nelson DDS Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry

JUSTIN Duffy, Debra DDS, PA Duffy Dental Ranch See ad on page 32

MANSFIELD Hamilton, Randy DMD iKids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Sentelle, David DMD, PhD, MPH Frisco Kid’s Dentistry

Brazeal, Jerod DDS Legacy Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry Hamilton, Randy DMD iKids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Ehsani, Sara DDS Pediatric Pro Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics

Jamison, Andrew DDS Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry

GRAND PRAIRIE Anwah, Joseph DDS, MS The Kid’s Dentist

Morrow, Jack DDS, MSD Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry Patel, Sheela DDS Cook Children’s Neighborhood Clinic Renaissance Risner, Jonathan DMD Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry Warcup, Justin DDS North Texas Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics See ad on page 31

Johnson, Jacob DDS Pediatric Dentistry of Keller LEWISVILLE Michael, Alvin DDS Lewisville Kids Dentistry

GARLAND Bayat, Ali DMD Pediatric Pro Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics

McAnthony, Bridget DDS Bridget McAnthony, DDS See ad on page 30

KELLER Hoffman, Jeffrey DDS Just For Kids Dentistry for Children & Teenagers See ad on page 32

MCKINNEY Chan, Justin DDS Sprout Dentistry for Kids John, Liny DDS Just for Kids Dentistry Yoo, Sage DMD Sprout Dentistry for Kids MESQUITE Lee, Yosuk DMD Texas Dentistry & Braces

Velasquez, Lina DDS The Kid’s Dentist

RICHARDSON Goodall, E. Blair DDS Children’s Dental Specialists Hutcheson, Candice DDS, MS Children’s Dental Specialists Train, Terri E. DDS, MS Children’s Dental Specialists ROCKWALL Morgan, Benjamin DDS, MS Rockwall Pediatric Dentistry Tujios, Aleco DDS, MS Woodhill Dental Specialties ROWLETT Pollock, Tera DDS Rowlett Dental Kids SOUTHLAKE Armstrong, Sandra DDS Giggles & Grins Capeci, Alexis DDS, MS Giggles & Grins WAXAHACHIE Aliefendic, Armin DDS Just for Kids Dental Hamilton, Randy DMD iKids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

MIDLOTHIAN Clark, Shelly DDS Shelly K. Clark, DDS Dentistry for Children

HURST Lin, Jin DMD Hurst Pediatric Dentistry IRVING Curtis, Ben DDS Children’s Dental Centre of Irving

PLANO

Jackson, Ratrice DDS, MHS Texas Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Judd, Catherine DDS Catherine Judd, DDS

Holt, Jeffrey DDS, MS Kids Dental See ad on page 29

Michael, Alvin DDS Children’s Dental Centre of Irving

Smith, Nathifa DDS Teeth R’ Us Children’s Dentistry See ad on page 31

To see all our Mom Approved health providers, visit our newly revamped online directory at dfwchild.com/momapproved. You’ll find an interactive map showing which providers are closest to you as well as comments from the local parents who nominated them.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Mila Davis, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 8x Mom Approved

Dr. Mila Davis is a cum laude graduate of Princeton University. She received her D.D.S. from Columbia School of Dental Medicine in New York City, with specialty training at New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University receiving Certification in Pediatric Dentistry. She was an Assistant Professor for Clinical Dentistry at Columbia University. In Dallas, Dr. Davis taught part time at Baylor College of Dentistry. After rigorous clinical and written examination, she was awarded Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Davis has hospital privileges at Children’s Medical Center. She was co-chair of the North Texas Give Kids a Smile Program where dental members volunteer to screen underserved children 5–12 years old for dental decay. Dr. Davis is certified in basic life support and pediatric advanced life support. She is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and Greater Dallas Pediatric Dental Society. Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry 12398 FM 423, Ste. 1900 Frisco, TX 75033 214-436-4774 healthychildrenssmiles.com

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Alejandra “Alex” Villaseñor, DDS, MS Neema Dad, DDS Mark Kogut, DDS, MSD Pediatric Dentistry 8x Mom Approved

Pictured, left to right: Dr. Mark Kogut, Dr. Glenn Cohen, Dr. Alejandra “Alex” Villaseñor and Dr. Neema Dad.

At myKIDSdds, our goal is to be the premier pediatric dental and orthodontic provider in Dallas, Texas. When you visit our practice, you can expect your child to receive the highest quality dental care in an award winning office. Our team is dedicated to showing your kiddo just how much fun dentistry can be!

8325 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 111, Dallas, TX 75231 Pediatric Dentistry: 469-315-9112 Orthodontics: 214-696-3085 mykidsdds.com

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

J. Diane Colter, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 10x Mom Approved Dr. Diane Colter’s passion to be the most caring and compassionate pediatric dentist led her to open All About Kids Dentistry, which specializes in treating infants, children, teens and kids with special needs. She loves working with children and has a very caring and compassionate personality. It is of utmost importance to provide outstanding care along with an inviting atmosphere where both the parent and child will have a positive experience. Dr. Colter grew up in Athens, Texas. She completed her degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, where she graduated in the top of her class. She completed a Residency in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of California Medical Center in Los Angeles, serving as chief resident. Dr. Colter is a board-certified pediatric dentist recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She also holds a staff appointment at Children’s Medical Center. Dr. Colter is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Texas Dental Association and Dallas County Dental Society. Dr. Colter has also been recognized many times by her fellow dental professionals as a top pediatric dentist in the area as published in D Magazine D Best and Texas Monthly’s Super Dentists. Away from the office, Dr. Colter enjoys spending time with her husband, Dr. Shandon Colter, their beautiful children, Sydney and Landon. Dr. Colter also enjoys traveling, and time spent with friends and family.

All About Kids Dentistry 12300 Inwood Rd., Ste. 110, Dallas, TX 75244 972-233-4439 allaboutkidsdentist.com

Jeffrey D. Holt, DDS, MS Pediatric Dentistry 10x Mom Approved A board certified specialist in Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry, Jeffrey Holt is the founder of KidsDental, a favorite of both kids and parents alike in the Dallas area. Dr. Holt has strategically changed the way children experience dentistry by providing positive and exciting atmospheres custom designed with children’s needs in mind. Kid-friendly diversions like SuperSlide PlayScapes, video games, trendy music, cool light shows, and inviting colorful dental chairs equipped with movies help keep each visit fun! With an emphasis on early childhood intervention, cosmetic restorative Pediatric Dentistry, and Orthodontics, Dr. Holt and his expert team focus on specialized and preventive dentistry during the growth and development years. A commitment to the highest level of quality care assures a healthy smile for life. Education: DDS, University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry; Post-Doctoral MS, Baylor University; Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry, Baylor College of Dentistry; Specialty Residency Programs, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children Affiliations: American Board of Pediatric Dentistry; American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; American Dental Association; Texas Dental Association; Dallas County Dental Society; Greater Dallas Society of Pediatric Dentists; former Clinical Director and Professor, Baylor College of Dentistry and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Board Certified: Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

KidsDental Plano: North Dallas Tollway @ Parker • 972-378-5437 Carrollton: Hebron @ Josey • 972-394-2140 kidsdentalonline.com

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Bridget McAnthony, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 7x Mom Approved Dr. Bridget McAnthony and her awesome team have been providing dental care for children in Tarrant County for over 30 years. We pride ourselves on maintaining a consistent staff so that children can recognize the same friendly faces. Our private office is the epitome of a small boutique experience where we create a personal, customized dental adventure from infancy into young adulthood. Our goal is to provide a relaxed environment that you and your children will love and be excited to visit again and again. Because of our highly trained and compassionate team we are certain we excel in all aspects of pediatric dentistry! Dr. McAnthony is a native of Fort Worth, TX. She graduated from Paschal High School and received her BA degree from Texas Christian University. Dr. McAnthony affectionately goes by “Dr. Mac” because it is short and easy to pronounce for her young patients! She obtained her dental degree and certificate in pediatric dentistry from Texas A&M College of Dentistry, which included clinical pediatric specialty training at Children’s Medical Center and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital. Dr. Mac is a board certified pediatric dentist and has memberships with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association. She provides IV sedation in office and has operating privileges at an outpatient facility. We can’t wait to welcome your family to our family!

Bridget McAnthony Pediatric Dentistry 8429 Park Vista Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76137 817-788-9500 • F:817-520-1556 mcpediatricdentistry@gmail.com mcpediatricdentistry.com

Melissa Rozas, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 10x Mom Approved Dr. Melissa Rozas, a mom herself, knows the importance of making children feel comfortable, safe, and confident in the dental office. She is passionate about creating a positive experience that is not only educational but also, informative and fun! “Clear communication, trust, and setting goals with parents and their children is our mission, and we mix in a ton of fun as well!” Our pediatric dentists and team love seeing patients as infants or by age 1 year. “Seeing babies early in life allows us the ability to teach parents the best way to take care of their child’s mouth and teeth. In addition, we can evaluate for potential problems such as tongue posture, tongue and lip-ties, speech problems and feeding issues.” She says, “there is new research showing how early diagnosis and treatment with many of these problems, is key to giving children the ability to grow to their full potential and thrive at home and school.” Dr. Melissa Rozas is board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and she is a Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, The Greater Dallas Pediatric Dental Society, the Academy Laser Study Club, and the International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals.

Melissa Rozas, DDS

Dentistry for Infants, Children & Teens, PA Dentistry for Infants, Children & Teens, P.A.

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

632 E. Sandy Lake Rd., Coppell, TX, 75019 972-393-9779 • info@rozasdds.com rozasdds.com

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Nathifa Smith, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 5x Mom Approved Dr. Smith is a board certified pediatric dentist by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and is honored to be a DFW Mom-approved dentist for another year. She understands that building trust with the parents is very important in pediatric dental care because parents are nurturers; therefore she ensures that all dental decisions for your child are made in a doctor-family network which encourages parents to ask questions regarding their child’s dental care. At Teeth R’ Us we have a phenomenal child friendly environment with TV’s mounted above each treatment chair, Netflix, video games and a selection of educational toys and books in the lobby to put your child’s mind at ease. Dr. Smith specializes in cosmetic pediatric dentistry and provides dental services for small children, adolescents, teens and children with special needs. If dental sedation is necessary for treatment we offer oral inhalation, IV sedation for patients in office and general anesthesia at Children’s Hospital. Dr. Smith looks forward to making your children smile. Education: Bachelor of Science Biology, Florida State University, DDS, University of Iowa College of Dentistry; Post-Doctoral Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry, Howard College of Dentistry; Specialty Residency Programs, Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC Affiliations: American Board of Pediatric Dentistry; American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; American Dental Association; Texas Dental Association; North Texas Dental Association

Teeth R’ Us Children’s Dentistry 4865 Hedgcoxe Rd., Ste. 100, Plano, TX 75024 972-820-2022 • f 972-820-2024 teethruschildrensdentistry.com

Justin Warcup, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 7x Mom Approved Justin Warcup, DDS, is the owner of North Texas Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Dr. Warcup earned a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) degree at Ohio State University (OSU), where he also was on the dean’s list, served as president of the OSU Dental Entrepreneur Society, and co-founded OSU’s La Clinica Latina to provide dental care to an underserved community. Dr. Warcup is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Academy of Laser Dentistry, Texas Dental Association, Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and Fort Worth District Dental Society. Dr. Warcup and his wife have four children. When he is not in the office helping patients or at home enjoying his family, Dr. Warcup serves in leadership capacities with youth groups in the community—where he coaches sports teams, leads scouting groups. “At North Texas Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, every member of The Smile Team aims to help our patients enjoy their trips to the dentist so much that they look forward to the next visit! We recognize that each patient is special and invaluable, and we celebrate them. I consider it both an honor and a privilege to provide Fort Worth’s youth the highest quality dental care in the best possible environment,” says Dr. Warcup. “I love what I do, and I truly believe I have the greatest job on this earth.”

North Texas Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 3550-C Hulen St., Fort Worth, TX 76107 817-732-9341 • northtexassmiles.com

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Sabrina Dragan, DMD Pediatric Dentistry

All children deserve to have healthy smiles for life! At Plunk & Dragan Smiles, we strive to create a safe (and fun!) first dental experience for every patient. Dr. Dragan’s passion for kids and a conservative approach to dentistry are the foundation of her patient care philosophy. “I believe creating both educational and interactive dental experiences from day one is the key to our success,” Dr. Dragan says. “When both my patients and their parents leave happy, I know we’ve achieved our goals. We have a fantastic team with many years of experience that makes going to the dentist fun!” Plunk & Dragan Smiles 1151 N. Buckner Blvd., Suite 402 Dallas, TX 75218 214-324-KIDS • plunksmiles.com

Debra Duffy, DDS Pediatric Dentistry

10x Mom Approved Dr. Debra Duffy loves helping kids love dentistry. She was the first pediatric dentist in Flower Mound, starting her practice in 1994. Dr. Duffy grew up in Colleyville, attended SMU, and then received her Doctor of Dental Surgery from UTHealth San Antonio. Her passion for treating children continued as she completed her 2-year residency at the Children’s Hospital Medical Center of Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Duffy is also a diplomat in the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Chelsea Wehr, a graduate of UNT and UTHealth Houston, joined the team 14 months ago. While in Houston, Dr. Wehr also received further training in pediatric dentistry with a 2-year residency where she served as Chief Resident. Debra C. Duffy, DDS, PA 2701 Old Settlers Rd., Flower Mound, TX 75022 • 972-724-1617 debraduffydds.com Duffy Dental Ranch 100 Hardeman Blvd., Justin, TX 76247 • 940-278-0909 duffydentalranch.com

Jeffrey A. Hoffman, DDS Pediatric Dentistry

9x Mom Approved Dr. Hoffman has been providing gentle and compassionate pediatric dental care to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex since graduating from the Baylor College of Dentistry in 1981. With more than 40 years of service, it’s no wonder that his welcoming staff, averaging 25 years of service, is a quality reflection of his standards, showcasing the best in hospitality and customer service. Dr. Hoffman, a father of four and grandfather of three, has a simple philosophy — to treat each and every patient as if they were his own child. His calming nature is especially beneficial to children with special needs. His trusty “comfort” dog, Olive has helped many youngsters. Olive has an important job sitting in our patient’s laps during dental treatment, and she helps them feel just a bit more comfortable! “Parents and children appreciate seeing the same faces,” he said. “It is very gratifying to now be treating many of my former patients’ own children.” Just for Kids Dentistry 601 S. Main Street, Suite 220, Keller, TX 76248 817-741-8390 • justforkidsdentistry.com

Michael J. Delgado, DDS, MS Orthodontics 10x Mom Approved Dr. Michael Delgado believes that healthy, improved smiles can inspire confidence and change lives. His dedication and passion for orthodontics leads to personalized care and successful results for children and adults. Dr. Delgado grew up in the DFW area and has created beautiful smiles here for 15+ years. His favorite part of being an Orthodontist is that exciting moment when a patient sees their new smile for the first time. Delgado Orthodontics

9293 Huntington Square, North Richland Hills, TX 76182 817-282-1821 • delgadoorthodontics.com

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Brittaney L. Glazer, DDS Family Dentistry 5x Mom Approved

“One Doctor. One Office. Your Whole Family” is our motto and we mean it! Dr. Brittaney Glazer is the only dentist you’ll see at Glazer Family Dentistry and we believe that makes all the difference. Her team provides specialized personal care that you cannot always find at a larger dental practice. In 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 we were voted “Best Dentist” by the Murphy Monitor, and a 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 “Neighborhood Favorite” by Nextdoor.com. Read our reviews and come meet us! Glazer Family Dentistry

119 North Murphy Road, Ste. 500 Murphy, TX 75094 214-774-9906 GlazerFamilyDentistry.com Instagram and Facebook: @GlazerFamilyDentistry

Tamara L. Jones, DDS, MSD Orthodontics

7x Mom Approved As a native Dallasite and SMU graduate, Dr. Tamara L. Jones is passionate about serving the greater DFW area as a top provider. She is board certified, a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider, and consistently featured on multiple “Best” lists annually for both children and adults. Along with her wonderful team across three locations, Dr. Jones is focused on patient care and believes in creating a positive experience with prompt appointments, smiling faces and pristine facilities. Willow Bend Orthodontics, Plano, willowbendbraces.com Richardson Orthodontics, richardsonortho.com Allen Orthodontics, orthoallen.com

Zarmin Lalani, DDS, MS Pediatric Dentistry

7x Mom Approved Dr. Zarmin Lalani and staff are passionate about providing highest quality dental care in a fun, friendly and compassionate environment. Creating a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles begins with positive experiences! Dr. Lalani is board certified, a fellow of the AAPD, and a diplomate of the ABPD. She holds her DDS, Masters, and her Pediatric Specialty Residency certificate from Baylor College of Dentistry. She feels blessed to be able to bring beautiful smiles to kids every day! Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry 10710 Eldorado Pkwy. Ste. 140, Frisco, TX 75035 469-365-5437 • discoverykidsdentistry.com

Sonia G. Louca, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 8x Mom Approved Dr. Sonia Louca, a board-certified pediatric dentist, dedicates her practice to infants, children and teens, and offers services that cater to their unique needs. After graduating from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1999, she went on to complete a two-year residency in Pediatric Dentistry. Since 2001, she has enjoyed building healthy foundations for smiles that last a lifetime in Coppell and surrounding communities. Coppell Dentistry for Kids

220 S. Denton Tap Rd., Ste. 104, Coppell, TX 75019 972-462-8655 • coppellkidsdentist.com

Thomas Schlieve, DDS, MD, FACS Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 4x Mom Approved Dr. Thomas Schlieve is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon practicing at UT Southwestern and Children’s Health. He is the only oral surgeon in DFW with fellowship training in the management of cysts, tumors, and cancers of the mouth and jaws privileged to operate at Children’s Health. He is an expert in the management of wisdom teeth and extra teeth. Dr. Schlieve aims to provide the highest level of patient safety and quality care. UT Southwestern Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Thomas Schlieve, D.D.S, M.D

6333 Forest Park Blvd, Suite 130, Dallas, TX 75235 214-645-3999 • utswmed.org/doctors/thomas-schlieve drthomasschlieve.com

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

We’ve seen a million first moments. All in preparation for yours.

During one of life’s biggest moments, we’re here to keep you and your family safe, joyful and in the moment. From ultrasound to delivery, our experienced care team will be with you every moment of the way.

Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2021 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-DFW-430150-DFWBABY AM

Scan the QR code to plan your moment.

baby.

mommy sos How to get the help you need from your partner

ISTOCK

WORDS AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

T WAS PROBABLY A BURNED-OUT MOTHER who first uttered those famous words: “it takes a village.” Child rearing—especially in the blurry, early days—is as exhausting as it is magical, and as tempting as it can be to think we can do it all, the truth is, we all need help. When baby first arrives, the floodgates might open and that proverbial village will come pouring in. Often they’ll show up on your doorstep, casseroles in hand, ready to make you coffee and snuggle the baby while you shower. Then slowly, the visitors wane—but the sleepless nights and full-time days do not. This is when you’ll need some help from that villager living right in your home. It’s OK to ask your partner for help. Actually, it’s perfectly logical. But as simple as it may seem, asking for help isn’t always easy—especially for moms. “I think women sometimes have trouble asking for help,” says Maria Pokluda, a certified birth and postpartum doula and founder of Dallas-based DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

baby /

MOMMY SOS

Great Expectations. “There’s a certain sense that all of this should just come naturally, and we can be hard on ourselves for even needing help in the first place.” Just as many moms-to-be make a birth plan, Pokluda recommends they also make a Plan B—Plan Baby—for the time after the little one arrives. Postpartum planning allows families to have conversations around each person’s responsibilities and anticipate areas of need—before they’re sleep deprived and in the throes of caring for a tiny, needy human. “It helps to have these conversations before, when communication is good and when you’re not overwhelmed,” she says. “Plan for this before the baby comes out. Sit down and think of things you’ll need, then set expectations around that.” RELIEVE THE MENTAL LOAD

Mommy & Me

NATURAL SOAPS

Make bath time for your baby just as special as feeding time, with personalized soaps made with your very own breast milk.

shopkari.com ••••• Call Arria @ 682-326-3491 •••••

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

So when asking their partners for help around the house, Pokluda suggests women not only focus on the tangible, physical chores. “Say, ‘hey can you look around and see the things that we need right now?’ Sometimes, just making the list can take a lot of that emotional load off.” LOOSEN YOUR GRIP

When Abigail Campbell had her first baby, she struggled not only asking her partner for help, but also accepting it. She had a hard time letting go and letting him take over tasks like bath time or even diaper changes. “I didn’t understand how my husband could watch me do something, but then do it ‘all wrong,’” the mom of two from Murphy said. “It made me not want to ask for help even though I desperately needed it.” This is a common challenge for couples, says Pokluda, who’s heard from many frustrated partners that are trying to help, but being told they’re doing everything wrong. Everyone handles parenting in different ways, and just because you and your partner do things differently, it doesn’t mean either of you is wrong. Sometimes, you will just have to let go. “There were things I needed to teach him and walk him through and other things I just needed to let him do his own way,” Campbell realizes. Letting your partner do things their own way will strengthen their bond with the baby and boost their confidence—and not to mention, give you a break.

“THERE WERE THINGS I NEEDED TO TEACH HIM AND WALK HIM THROUGH AND OTHER THINGS I JUST NEEDED TO LET HIM DO HIS OWN WAY.”

Let’s face it: many families don’t have it all planned out before the baby comes home, and the bulk of household and childcare responsibilities often fall on mom—or at least she feels that way. Helena Kean Nguyen, of Irving, remembers those exhausting first few weeks with her newborn son three years ago. On top of adjusting to motherhood, recovering from birth, and caring for the baby, she felt overwhelmed by trying to keep up with every chore in the house, too. “My challenge as a new mom was I felt like I still needed to do all the house tasks. Washing dishes, laundry, cooking, cleaning,” she said. Nguyen gives her husband credit for stepping up to the plate; he was perfectly able—and willing—to take over the domestic duties. The real struggle was the expectations she placed on herself. “The house keeps going, life keeps going on,” Pokluda agrees. “Laundry still happens, and people who live there still need to eat.” Even in households where partners split the chores evenly, there’s often still one person who takes on most of the “thinking” work— the mental load. This invisible labor of managing a family and a household isn’t necessarily about the physical tasks, but rather the thinking and overseeing of those tasks—that neverending, constantly running to-do list in your head. Studies find this emotional labor almost always falls on women. It’s exhausting in its own way, but often overlooked.

ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

If you need help and are willing to accept it, but still aren’t getting what you need from you partner, consider this: have you actually asked? You may know how stressed you are, but your partner may not unless you explicitly tell them. Don’t assume that anyone knows how much you’re struggling. “Nobody is a mind reader,” Pokluda warns. And when you do ask for help, try to be specific. Think carefully about what you need and what precise actions your partner can take to help you meet that need. It can be a small task, like washing pump parts, or something bigger, like taking over nighttime feedings. The point is, you can’t do it alone. Everyone needs help. You won’t lose any mommy points for putting out an SOS—we promise.

Caring is Central to All We Do At Health Central Women’s Care, our physicians are committed to every aspect of women’s health — from well care and obstetrics to gynecology and surgery. We believe each woman deserves a personalized approach to their health care needs at all stages in life. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice and partnering with you for a healthy future. Now accepting new patients. To make an appointment, call (214) 365-1150.

Top row: Clark W. Griffith, MD • Ann R. Woodbridge, MD • Felicia Tillman, MD • A. Jay Staub, MD Bottom row: Liesl Bredeson, MD • Francesca Perugini, MD • Tracy Speight, MD • Stephanie Slocum, MD • Natalie C. Light, MD

7777 Forest Ln. Building D Suite 1200 Dallas, TX 75230 (214) 365-1150 Now located on the campus of Medical City Dallas

HealthCentralOBGYN.com

NEWBORN QUESTIONS? WE’VE GOT ANSWERS.

Book a FREE newborn class today Expecting a baby is an exciting time for parents. But there’s also a lot do to prepare for your baby’s arrival. Our pediatricians are here to help you get ready.

Scan the QR code to book a free newborn class with one of our pediatricians.

Our classes cover the basics before delivery, at the hospital and what to expect in those first few months.

baby /

PARENTING GROUPS

MOM A ND PA RENTING GROUPS IN DA LL ASFORT WORTH Here’s where to find your tribe W O R D S E M I LY M C DA N I E L

preschool, playgroups and birthday parties, oh my! Socializing kids from an early age tops the priority list of many parents. But that doesn’t mean your social calendar can’t flourish during motherhood as well. Mommy groups connect mothers from similar parenting backgrounds or geographic locations for anything from play dates to picnics to moms’ nights out. We’ve rounded up some of the best groups in Dallas-Fort Worth for both seasoned and first-time moms.

ISTOCK

Note: Please contact each group or venue for the most up-to-date information as many groups are not actively meeting in-person due to COVID-19 precautions.

FA ITH -BA S E D G RO U P S IF A DESIRE FOR RELIGIOUS FELLOWSHIP RESONATES WITH YOU and your

family, a faith-based mommy group may be right for you. Many faith-based groups encourage new members of all backgrounds to bring their questions to meetings. MOMS CONNECTION

Moms Connection is a group for moms and moms-to-be. This group is associated with the Chase Oaks Church to empower, embrace, educate and support one another through all stages of motherhood. Members meet twice

a month; childcare is available. Contact leubanks@chaseoaks.org for questions regarding membership and locations. chaseoaks.org MOPS

Mothers of Preschoolers, or MOPS, is a community-based organization that was created for moms with young children to lend support, begin friendships and share experiences throughout early stages of motherhood. After nearly 50 years serving as a resource for parents, MOPS has expanded to also include moms with school-aged kids. MOPS has partnered with loDFWCHILD | october/november 2022

baby /

PARENTING GROUPS

cal churches and various organizations to offer accessibility to many families. Multiple levels of memberships to choose from. mops.org WATERMARK MINISTRIES:

Watermark Community Church offers several classes for parents, including sessions for moms-to-be, single parents, first-time parents, for adoptive or foster parents, and any parents seeking Bible-based fellowship. Contact info@watermark.org for questions regarding classes. watermark.org/ministries

FO R MOTH E R-TO MOTHER CO N N EC TI O N S

Matthew Simon, MD Accepting new patients Dr. Matthew Simon is dedicated to providing personalized and straight forward care for children from birth through college. He has been nominated nine years as a DFWChild Mom Approved pediatrician. Dr. Simon’s goal is to assist your family in raising healthy and happy children. We seek to keep our patient volume low, which allows us to spend as much time as necessary with you and your child. We are currently accepting both new and transfer patients.

WHETHER YOU’RE NEW TO TOWN,

new to motherhood or just new to mommy groups, these clubs can provide friendship from like-minded mothers with same-age children in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. ALLEN EARLY CHILDHOOD PTA:

Families in and around Allen are welcome to join Allen Early Childhood PTA for access to networking, playgroups, exclusive member events, educational activities and more. Membership is $24 per year. AECPTA allows you the option of a 30-day free Meetup trial to see if this membership is right for you. Email membership@aecpta.com for more information about membership. aecpta.com. BLACK METRO MOMS OF DALLAS:

Whether you are looking for advice, to get inspired, or have fun with other moms in the Dallas metroplex, Black Metro Moms of Dallas is a Facebook group for members to host meetups to socialize and unwind. facebook. com/groups/1269040719801600 CARROLLTON EARLY CHILDHOOD PTA:

P ark C ities P ediatrics Conveniently located inside The Westchester in the heart of Preston Center 8215 Westchester Drive, Suite 150 Dallas, TX 75225 Contact us 214-361-7185 info@parkcitiespediatrics.com parkcitiespediatrics.com facebook.com/parkcitiespediatrics Office Hours Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

Carrollton Early Childhood PTA is a group for families with children ages 5 and younger who live in Carrollton or the surrounding area. The goal of this collective is to plan playdates, events and educational meetings for parents to socialize and network with other neighbors. Family memberships begin at $25 per year, with an option to add-on an additional family member. cecpta.org COPPELL EARLY CHILDHOOD ASSOCIATION:

This support group is for parents with children ages 0-6. With monthly parent meetings, weekly playgroups, parents’ night out evenings, as well as children’s events and parties, this organization offers fun activities for the whole family. Yearly and prorated memberships available, starting at $30 per year. coppellearlychildhood.org FORT WORTH MOMS GROUP:

Whether you are pregnant, trying to conceive or are a seasoned mom, Fort Worth Moms is a Facebook Group that offers sup-

port through other moms in the community. Playdates, events and get togethers are regularly scheduled to bring fellow parents together to not only share experiences and lend support, but to laugh together too! facebook.com/groups/1648384898815650 FIT4MOM:

This neighborhood fitness membership serves communities all over the DFWmetroplex. From prenatal to postnatal health, Fit4Mom offers different wellness and fitness programs for moms at every stage of motherhood. Community activities include stroller strides, mom-only workouts and village playgroups, to name a few. Email info@ fit4mom.com with questions. fit4mom.com GRAPEVINE COLLEYVILLE SOUTHLAKE MOMS LEAGUE:

The local nonprofit GCS Moms League primarily connects families that reside in Grapevine, Colleyville, Southlake and Keller, although parents of neighboring Tarrant County cities are welcome. This organization holds regular community events for moms (or families); from book club to fit club and ladies’ night out, there is a range of adult activities to choose from to allow members the chance to have some fun. Yearly memberships begin at $75. Contact info@gcsmomsleague.org with questions. gcsmomsleague.org KELLER AREA MOMS:

This non-profit moms’ group is designed to network and create friendships with moms that live in the Keller, Alliance, Haslet, Roanoke and the Watauga area. Members enjoy playdates, couples’ events, holiday parties and philanthropic opportunities throughout the year. Membership is $10 per year. Email kellerareamomsgroup@gmail.com for information. kellerareamoms.com LAKEWOOD PTA:

Join the network of parents for $35 a year. Lakewood PTA prides themselves on making their community a better place, with their children in mind. Although most parents live near Lakewood Elementary school zone, anyone in the East Dallas/ Lakewood community with a child of 0-6 years old is welcome. Members get together for regular social events, volunteer opportunities and gather children of the same age for playgroups. Email info@lecpta.org for membership inquiries. lecpta.org LA LECHE LEAGUE OF TEXAS:

La Leche League of Texas is a discussionbased support group narrowing in on topics related to breastfeeding. North Texas groups: Bedford, Collin County (Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Plano), Fort Worth-Alliance, Greater Dallas, Lewisville, Rockwall County (Lake Ray Hubbard). Membership is $40 per year. texaslll.org

Try A Class For Free!

Gymboree Play & Music of Southlake 2960 E. Southlake Blvd., Ste. 170 Southlake, TX 76092 817-398-5062 GymboreeClasses.com

Fall and holiday styles from bestselling brands like Mabel & Honey and Kickee Pants are arriving weekly. Shop boy and girl newborn to 12 both in store and online today!

601 S. Main St. #101, Grapevine, TX 76051 817-416-7774 | littleorangefishkids.com

At the Carter, connecting with art is easy at any age! Check out our family events designed to encourage art exploration, inspire curiosity, and spark creativity for babies, toddlers, and beyond!

Itty-Bitty Art (Up to 24 months)

Introduces babies to art using early learning techniques

Toddler Studio (2-3 year olds)

Teaches toddlers about art through play

Carter Playdates (3-5 year olds)

Includes hands-on activities and storytime

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

baby /

PARENTING GROUPS

MOCHA MOMS INC.:

Mocha Moms Inc. is a support group for moms of color that organizes play dates and hosts family and couples’ activities as well. There are two different membership options which provide different opportunities. mochamomsdallassou.wixsite.com/mochamoms MOMS CLUB:

Dallas-Fort Worth’s #1 parenting resource for over 30 years THAT’S A LOT OF BIRTHDAYS! Our newsletters are full of the latest parenting trends, mom favorites, and DFW’s best family-friendly events. Join our family today and get all the sweet stuff delivered to your inbox.

Moms Offering Moms Support, or MOMS, is an international nonprofit group dedicated to stay-at-home-moms. This organization is focused on bringing at-home mothers together with their children for entertainment, friendship and support. Each group is referred to as Chapters, which are regionally assigned. Every club hosts regularly scheduled events such as playdates, community service activities, book club and moms’ night out. Mothers with children of any age can join, although check the website to see your assigned club chapter based on your region. Some chapters in the Dallas-Fort Worth area include Moms Club of Aledo & Willow Park, Mansfield Moms Club, Moms Club Flower Mound-West, Moms Club McKinney- Central, Moms Club of HurstEuless-Bedford, Moms Club of Rockwall and Moms Club of Murphy/Sachse. momsclub.org NORTH DALLAS EARLY CHILDHOOD PTA:

Are you expecting or have children under the age of 5? North Dallas Early Childhood PTA group does not geographically restrict anyone that wants to join. Annual dues are $60, which gives you access to the membersonly Facebook group, invitations to special events or get-togethers and opportunities to meet and socialize with other moms and families. Email NorthDallasECPTA@yahoo. com for info. ndecpta.com PRESTON HOLLOW EARLY CHILDHOOD ASSOCIATION:

Preston Hollow Early Childhood Association organizes informative meetings with speakers that share topics related to parenting, education and children’s health. For the kiddos, the PTA arranges Playtime in the Park meetups for your little ones to burn off some energy. Preston Hollow Early Childhood Association is not associated with any particular school and is open to families with children ages 0-5. Email phecamoms@gmail.com with any questions about a membership. pheca.org ROSEMONT EARLY CHILDHOOD PTA:

Scan with your phone’s camera

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

As the earliest childhood PTA in Texas, Rosemont Early Childhood PTA knows the meaning of making their community a better place for the love and growth of their children. RECPTA members participate in seasonal events, playdates, parents’ night out, community meetings and volunteering opportunities. Their mission is focused on diversity, connection and meaningful friendships that will follow your children through and

beyond their school-aged years. Membership is $35 per year. Email president@recpta.org for membership inquiries. recpta.org TROPHY CLUB FAMILIES:

A non-profit organization that aims to bring families that reside in the Trophy Club area together. For parents of newborns to 5-yearold children, joining for the year will allow you to get to know your neighbors. This community group plans family-friendly play dates and events, organizes moms’ nights out and other social and philanthropic opportunities. Email trophyclubfamilies@gmail.com for membership inquires. trophyclubfamilies.com WYLIE MOMS & MORE:

This Facebook group organizes social events for moms with children of all ages in and around Wylie. Email wyliemomsandmore. org@gmail.com for more info. facebook.com/ wyliemomsandmore

FO R MOM S O F MU LTI PL E S IF NO ONE CAN UNDERSTAND a mother like a fellow mom, the same holds true for parents of multiples. Multiples of America specializes in connecting multiple-birth families through local member organizations. These local clubs offer children’s socials, mom’s retreats, support services and shared resources for parents of twins, triplets and quads. DALLAS MOMS OF MULTIPLES:

Geared towards education and support for families with more than one child, Dallas Moms of Multiples is a community-based Facebook group that brings together parents of children of all ages in the DFW-metroplex. facebook.com/groups/1557799127815828/ MULTIPLES OF AMERICA:

Multiples of America, also known as the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs (NOMOTC) is a national organization that was created as a support network for local clubs to connect parents that have multiple children. Some DFW-area groups associated with Multiples of America are Arlington Mothers of Multiples, Fort Worth Mothers of Multiples, Lake Cities Moms, Metrocrest Parents of Multiples and Plano Area Mothers of Multiples. multiplesofamerica.org ARLINGTON MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES:

Geared towards moms of multiple children that reside in Arlington, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, Kennedale and the surrounding areas. The group meets every first Tuesday of the month at 7pm at Pleasant Ridge Church of Christ. For more information email the amomarlington@gmail.com. amom.club; facebook.com/ArlingtonAMOM

Holistic Pediatrics with a Heart

INTEGRATIVE PEDIATRIC MEDICINE

Putting Care Back Into Healthcare Preventive Pediatric Services and Acute and Chronic Care Wellness Visits, Sick Visits, Sports Physicals, ADHD, Autism, Depression & Anxiety

Dr. Alina Olteanu

• • • • •

Nutrition Integrative Medicine Stress Management Meditation Functional Medicine

MD, PhD & Friend

3550 Parkwood Blvd., Suite B-100, Frisco, TX 75034

| 214.736.1954 | WholeChildTexas.com DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

baby /

PARENTING GROUPS

FORT WORTH MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES:

Monthly meetings normally take place every third Tuesday of the month. Annual membership begins at $45. Email membership@ fwmom.org for membership inquiries. fwmom.org LAKE CITIES MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES:

They welcome dads, too! The Lake Cities Mothers of Multiples group is based in Southlake and welcomes families from surrounding Northeast Tarrant County cities (Grapevine, Colleyville, Keller, Trophy Club, North Richland Hills). Email lcmomvpmemberships@gmail. com for membership inquiries and meeting times. Annual dues are $37. lcmom.org METROCREST PARENTS OF MULTIPLES:

This support group typically meets on the second Thursday evening of each month at Faith Lutheran Church/Day School in Flower Mound. Membership is $40 per year. Contact info@ mpom.net for more information. mpom.net PLANO AREA MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES:

HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

RECOMMENDED BY LOCAL MOMS PEDIATRICIANS WOMEN’S HEALTH COUNSELORS THERAPISTS DENTISTS ORTHODONTISTS WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS DFWCHILD.COM/DIRECTORY

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

Their mission is to share knowledge to parents or guardians of multiple-birth children. PAMOM provides support for North Dallas area families with education and resources that help parents. Join for $45 and enjoy perks like socials, children’s parties, MOM’s night out, playgroups, sales and community service projects. Email vpmembership@pamom.org for inquiries and monthly meeting times. pamom.org TEXAS MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES:

The mission is to encourage exchange of ideas, participate in weekly playdates and support fellow moms who understand the demands of raising multiple children. There are many clubs that cover the DFW-metroplex. Email membership@tmom. info for membership inquiries. tmom.info

G RO U P S FO R S I N G L E MOM S SINGLE PARENTING has its own unique set of challenges and rewards. Surrounding yourself with other single parents to share resources and support can make all the difference. SINGLE & PARENTING:

Various support groups around the Dallas area tackle the challenges of single parenting with tools such as video seminars, small-group discussions and workbooks. Type in your zip code to find a group nearest to you. singleandparenting.org

GROUPS FOR MOMS OF SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS MOMS OF SPECIAL NEEDS

children know strength and perseverance well. These support groups below will help connect you connect to other moms that understand what it’s like to raise a child with special needs. DOWN SYNDROME GUILD OF DALLAS:

Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas assists families with helpful resources, information, referrals, support and connection opportunities for children with Down syndrome. The Guild offers different programs based on the age of your child. The Babies & Toddlers program is designed for expecting parents and parents of young children to navigate the early journey of caring for a child with Down syndrome. Email info@downsyndromedallas.org for questions about the Guild. downsyndromedallas.org/ babies-toddlers SPECIAL NEEDS PARENTS OF NORTH TEXAS:

Created as a safe space for parents to ask questions, seek advice or referrals, talk about their experiences or give support, Special Needs Parents of North Texas is a Facebook group that covers a wide range of topics for parents of a child with special needs. facebook.com/groups/NorthTexasSpecialNeedsParents

• Serving birth to 21 years old! •

Developmental Preschool & Therapy Services

Art Use photo of child in costume (younger child/baby is better) Copy Primary text: Serving birth to 21 years old! Secondary text: Developmental Preschool and Therapy Services Contact info: 6025 Sports Village Rd | Frisco, TX 75033 214.687.9374 | PediatricsPlus.com

6025 Sports Village Rd | Frisco, TX 75033 214.687.9374 | PediatricsPlus.com

bump. birth. newbie. bebe. photography

nbarrettbebe.com nbarrettphoto@gmail.com

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

THE BABY DIRECTORY //

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE

Baby

Sponsored by

We are dedicated to a program of academic excellence designed to train the mind, strengthen the character, and enrich the spirit of each student in a Christian environment. In our commitment to diversity and equity, St. John’s Episcopal School does not discriminate regarding race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, genetic information, disability, pregnancy, marital status, religion, military status, and/or any protected category. This commitment extends to our employment, educational, admission, and financial aid policies, and other school-administered programs.

Holiday Shopping . Food Trucks . Door Prizes . Free Admission

Best Places

in Dallas-Fort Worth for Kids

Helping parents successfully navigate the childhood years is kind of our thing. Explore our not-sosecret weapon, the Best Places directory, at dfwchild.com.

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

SCHOOL GUIDE //

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Open Enrollment Now Available Summer Camp Options

Principal and Private School

SERVING STUDENTS WITH LEARNING CHALLENGES SUCH AS DYSLEXIA, DYSCALCULIA, ANXIETY AND ADD/ADHD

All children are unique and marvelously made by God. Believing in the Limitless Potential of Girls

Learn why an all-girls school inspires confidence WWW.HOCKADAY.ORG The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin.

Providing Lifelong Learning through Community Experiences Serves all people with different abilities from ages three through adulthood. We strive to support all families through connections to resources as well as facilitating lifelong learning and long term successes. We accomplish these goals by teaching the skills that are necessary for all individuals to become contributing members of society.

55 Main St., Suite 290 Colleyville InspireAcademyTX.com 817.803.5010 InspireAcademyTX

Principal Dana Judd, M.S. In Special Education

H.E.R.O.E.S. Academy

H.E.R.O.E.S. Academy is a community-based, year-round day program for adults who have aged out of the school system. H.E.R.O.E.S. Academy provides the muchneeded opportunity for individuals to become active and contributing members of the community. The focus for our young adults is to embed ourselves into the community working on job training opportunities, volunteering, shopping and recreational activities. During their time on campus they will be cooking, and learning life skills such as money management, social skills and more.

Other programs offered: • • • •

Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2022.

www.heroesdfw.org

Fun activities for siblings of brothers and sisters with disabilities

Weekend retreats and sleepovers Parent and family support Continuing Ed courses Seasonal day camps: Summer, Spring Break, Winter

For further information or to schedule a visit, email info@heroesdfw.org Like us on Facebook: HEROESCamp ©

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

24TH ANNUAL

MODEL SEARCH October 17– December 11 THIS IS YOUR CHILD’S CHANCE TO BE ON A 2023 COVER! AGES 0–10 YEARS $40 REGISTRATION FEE $5 OF EACH ENTRY DONATED TO

dfwchild.com/modelsearch

PHOTO: CINDY JAMES/ALYSSA PIZER MANAGEMENT

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

EN TS

W C H I L D .C

FOR DAILY

playbook M

VI S

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

AUTUMN AT THE ARBORETUM: A FALL FAIRY TALE Through Oct. 31

O C T O B E R & N OV E M B E R ➽ A H O L I D AY S E A S O N B U R S T I N G A T T H E S E A M S

STATE FAIR OF TEXAS

Through October 23

PHOTO COURTESY OF DALLAS ARBORETUM

FAIR PARK, DALL AS

The fair is famous for its fried foods (hello, deep fried PB and Razbrûlée), but did you know you can also bring your own snacks and drinks for no extra charge? Even coolers and ice chests are welcome, as well as small wagons to haul around your kid and preferred chow. (No glass, alcohol, or metal cutlery allowed.) If you really want

fair food, come on Thrifty Thursday for discounts at marked booths. Daily fair admission: $15 adults; $10 children; under 3 free. Adults pay child price after 5pm daily. 214/565-9931; bigtex.com AUTUMN AT THE ARBORETUM: A FALL FAIRY TALE

Through October 31

DALL AS ARBORETUM

We love the arboretum any time of year but especially

now during fall. The nature exhibit features Cinderella’s white carriage pulled by two horses sculpted in foliage. Come check out the Pumpkin Village, a child-sized hay maze, magic carpet selfies, and more displays inspired by tales like One Thousand and One Nights. Free with garden admission: $20 adults; $12 children; under 2 free; additional $3 for Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. 214/515-6615; dallasarboretum.org

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

October 7–16

GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD

Alert your preschoolers! A smiling, life-size Thomas the Tank Engine chugs into downtown Grapevine for two weekends. Book your seats for a 25-minute, roundtrip train ride pulled by Thomas himself. After you disembark, the experience continues in the Dream Big Corner with

lawn games and photo ops. Tickets are $24. 866/4687630; ticketwebdowt.com RIVER LEGACY FALL FESTIVAL

October 8

RIVER LEGACY NATURE CENTER, ARLINGTON

The dunk tank, you might agree, is a highly underrated form of entertainment— and one of many forms of fun you’ll find at this all-day family fest supporting River Legacy’s environmental

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

TO DO

ALLIANCE TEXAS AVIATION EXPO

ARLINGTON MUSEUM OF ART

October 22

ON EXPO IATI AV

➽ ALLIANCE

October 22

HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, MCKINNEY

In the event your kid dresses up as a dinosaur this Halloween, they’ll be in good company here. Part of the fun during the Heard’s not-so-spooky party takes place on the nature trail, where the animatronic Dinosaurs Live! exhibit currently resides. 60

October 22

MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK, DALL AS

Broadway starlets Christy Altomare, Susan Egan, Isabelle McCalla and Syndee Winters—better known as Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine and Tiana—headline this live concert that’s great for both adults and kids as young as 6. Get ready for fourpart harmonies and a whole lot of Disney magic. The show runs two hours, but you can stretch your limbs at intermission. Tickets from $45. 866/276-4884; disneyprincessconcert.com

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

TRICK-OR-TREATING IN THE PARK

October 29

KLYDE WARREN PARK, DALL AS

Raise your broomstick if you’re excited about Hocus Pocus 2 in theaters! No worries if you’ve already seen it—here you can brush up on the original by watching this free outdoor screening of the 1993 comedy. Be sure to show up early for the on-site trickor-treating from 5–7pm. FREE 214/716-4500; klydewarrenpark.org BLUE’S CLUES & YOU LIVE

ICE! FEATURING THE POLAR EXPRESS

Opens November 11 GAYLORD TEXAN

You’ll need an actual parka (don’t worry, they’re provided) to walk through this sub-freezing exhibition of enormous sculptures carved from two million pounds of colorful ice. It’s really spectacular—and it’s also far from the only reason to visit the Gaylord this season. Choose from more than a dozen other holiday activities, like snowman building, snowball throwing, dog shows and, of course, photos with Santa. Prices vary by activity. 817/778-1000; christmasatgaylordtexan.com THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK

HALLOWEEN AT THE HEARD

DISNEY PRINCESS: THE CONCERT

The famously accidentprone, marmalade-loving bear gets into said jam both literally and figuratively. Reserve your seats for one of two shows to find out what goes down when he asks to borrow a cup of sugar from his neighbor. Tickets from $39. 972/744-4650; eisemanncenter.com

Cue the Top Gun theme song—the U.S. Air Force’s Thunderbirds are back as the electrifying, featured performer. Get ready for high-speed maneuvers and uncomfortably close formations as you watch from ground level. Come early to let the kids play on the inflatables in the Landing Zone and ride a flight simulator. The parking pass is $79 per vehicle and must be purchased in advance. 817/890-1000; atxaviationexpo.com

This is no fairy tale. You’ll see how real knights from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance dressed for battle through this new exhibition of 130 rare artifacts on loan from a museum in Florence, Italy. They range from swords, shields, helmets and full suits of armor to mounted equestrian figures, all forged by master metalworkers. $20 adults; $5 children; under 2 free. 817/2754600; arlingtonmuseum.org

EISEMANN CENTER, RICHARDSON

DI N

FORT WORTH ALLIANCE AIRPORT

A KNIGHT’S TALE

Opens October 22

October 29

free. Register online to join the tea ceremonies in Oak Hall: $5 adults; $3 children. 817/392-5510; fwbg.org

JAPANESE GARDEN FALL FESTIVAL

November 5–6

FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

If your kids have never fed the koi fish at the Japanese garden, this twice-annual cultural festival is a lovely excuse to go visit for the first time. The Fort Worth Japanese Society presents performances throughout the day, including taiko drumming, swordsmanship and karate, as well as origami and Japanese games. $12 adults; $10 children; under 6

Opens November 12

NORTHPARK CENTER, DALLAS

This 35-year tradition continues with its dual purpose: fundraising for Ronald McDonald House of Dallas and entertaining kids with a model train exhibit. See the 1,600-foot-track located on the second floor by Neiman Marcus. $10 adults; $5 children; free for children under 2. Personalized railcars available for purchase, too. 214/631-7354, thetrainsatnorthpark.com HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE GLOW PARTY

November 12–13

DICKIES ARENA, FORT WORTH

These monster trucks are high-flying, fire-breathing, car-crushing—and once you flip off the lights, they’re glow-in-the-dark, too.

November 2

TEXAS TRUST CU THEATRE, GRAND PRAIRIE

Blue, Magenta and Rainbow Puppy are on a mission to help their human pal, Josh, make his own magical theater. See the pups from the animated show in the flesh as larger-thanlife puppets in this song and dance show made for preschool audiences. Tickets from $29. Photo experience available after the show. 972/854-5076; bluesclueslive.com

➽ ICE! FEATURING THE POLAR EXPRESS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATTEL; U.S. AIR FORCE; ROCKEFELLER PRODUCTION; GAYLORD TEXAN

Go trick-or-treating by the T. rex, and circle back to the amphitheater for a movie screening and activities. $15 adults; $10 children; under 3 free. 972/562-5566; heardmuseum.org

➽ PAD

education programming. $8 admission; under 3 free. $45 family fun packages include four admission tickets and 20 coupons for activities including bounce houses, games and the pumpkin patch. 817/8606752; riverlegacy.org

PADDINGTON GETS IN A JAM

DOWNTOWN CARROLLTON

This particular fest is a fab choice for two reasons. One, you’ve got the free entertainment during the day, so your kids can enjoy the entire children’s area with abandon—everything from a zip line, rock climbing wall and a game truck, to crafts and face painting. Then after dark, you’ve got the rock concerts by headliners Soul Asylum and Hoobastank for lovers of music from the ‘90s and early aughts. FREE 972/466-3000; carrolltonfestival.com

IN A J

➽ DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

November 5

FORT WORTH ZOO

For those who can’t wait until Halloween night, why not maximize your family fun with daytime fun at the zoo? You’ll enjoy treat stations, animal shows and more themed entertainment at designated spots around the zoo all weekend. Free with admission: $18 adults; $14 children; under 3 free. 817/7597555; fortworthzoo.org

FESTIVAL AT THE SWITCHYARD

BOO AT THE ZOO

October 28–30

playbook / T H I N G S

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

Tickets from $34 for adults and from $14 for children. The Crash Zone pass for $7.50 more gets you access to the pre-party to see the trucks close-up and meet the drivers. Be sure to bring those ear muffs to protect your kids’ hearing. 817/4029801; hotwheelsmonstertruckslive.com

TO DO

LIGHTSCAPE

Opens November 18

FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

After the sun goes down, the garden’s walking trails light up with some unusual sights—waving bluebonnets, treetop sculptures, singing trees, a fire garden. Come see what it’s all about on

select nights this holiday season when stations along the one-mile lighted path offer roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate. $28 adults; $18 children; under 3 free. 817/463-4160; fwbg. org/lightscape GRAPEVINE ICE RINK HISTORIC MAIN STREET, GRAPEVINE

Opens November 18

The Christmas Capital of Texas enhances its merrymaking this season by debuting its first outdoor ice-skating rink. The 4,500-square-foot open air rink, located in front of Grapevine Main Station, will be made with real ice and have its own adjacent concession area. Admission prices will be announced closer to opening. And it’s not the only new rink coming to North Texas this season. Fort Worth Stockyards launches its own first-ever ice-skating rink on November 25. 817/410-3185; grapevinetexasusa.com HERE BE DRAGONS: FROM LIZARDS TO LEGENDS

This Mexican tradition honors the loved ones in our lives who are gone but not forgotten. Join in these family-friendly festivals, or look online at dfwchild.com/calendar for more Day of the Dead celebrations near you. MCKINNEY DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

October 15

MEMORIAL PARK, MCKINNEY

The Legacy Keepers of Old East McKinney host the city’s second annual festival honoring the Day of the Dead. Expect face painters, kids’ crafts, lowrider cars and a costume contest open to all ages. For those who’ve lost family members or pets, feel free to bring photos or other items to place on the ofrenda, or special altar. FREE mckinneydiadelosmuertos.com DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS EN FORT WORTH

October 29

MARINE PARK, FORT WORTH

Artes de la Rosa’s nearly 20-year tradition continues with a morning parade along North Main Street leading up to a festival of food, live mariachi music and ballet folklórico dances. The community is invited to wear traditional costumes and paint their faces. FREE 817/624-8333; artesdelarosa.org DALLAS DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

October 29

DALL AS CIT Y HALL

Want to see the most stunning Catrinas and Catrins? Don’t miss this third annual festival and parade, getting bigger and bolder each year. The family-friendly festivities run from 2–10pm, with the community parade stepping off at 7pm. FREE 214/600-1533; ddlmusa.com

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

Opens November 19

RIVER LEGACY NATURE CENTER, ARLINGTON

Strictly speaking, we know that dragons are mythical creatures straight from ancient literature, but this new exhibition explores how close they are to the real-life lizards of today, namely the albino green iguana, European legless lizard and more lizard ambassadors you’ll meet in River Legacy’s Discovery Room. $10 adults; $7 children; under 2 free. 817/860-6752, riverlegacy.org GM FINANCIAL PARADE OF LIGHTS

November 20

DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH

Santa trades in his sleigh for a lighted float during this 40th annual nighttime Christmas parade. Organizers expect more than 100 entries to participate this year, which in the past have included everything from a giant Cookie Monster balloon to Elvis impersonators on mini bikes. Free to attend; reserved street seats from $20. 817/336-2787; fortworthparadeoflights.org

RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER

for kids 6 and younger. 214/954-0500, thetrot.org

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

Opens November 25

November 21–22

This classic Christmas performance recreates the look and feel of the original stop-motion show from the ‘60s. (We can’t wait to see Bumble, the 12-foot-tall Abominable Snow Monster.) The two evening performances fall on the Monday and Tuesday of Thanksgiving week, so it’s a great show to start the holiday break. Tickets from $30. 817/212-4280; rudolphthemusical.com DISNEY ON ICE: INTO THE MAGIC

November 23–27

CREDIT UNION OF TEXAS EVENT CENTER, ALLEN

During the Thanksgiving holiday, you be reuniting with family and also with (well, if you see this ice-skating show, anyway!) some of your fave Disney characters. Moana and Maui, Anna and Elsa, young Miguel from Coco—they all come together and hit the ice in this great, new mashup. Tickets from $33. 972/912-1057, disneyonice.com

ENCHANT CHRISTMAS FAIR PARK, DALL AS

Fans of Hallmark Channel holiday movies will especially love this white Christmas experience, featuring an iceskating trail, Santa visits, and an all-new light maze adventure called “The Mischievous Elf.” Check out the Hallmark Cozy Christmas lounge for photo ops, wine tasting, and a chance for fans to win a visit to a Hallmark movie set while in production. Admission from $34 for adults and from $18 for children; under 3 free. $15 for iceskating. 833/362-6445, enchantchristmas.com CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE

November 25–December 11 TEXAS TRUST CU THEATRE, GRAND PRAIRIE

Cirque du Soleil reintroduces its first-ever Christmas show, inspired by the classic Nutcracker story. This version follows young Isabella, who’s “jaded by the craze surrounding Christmas” (sound familiar?) and gets whisked away to a dreamy world of hoop-diving reindeer and a host of impossibly daring acrobatic performers. Tickets from $44. 972/854-5076; cirquedusoleil.com HARRY CONNICK JR.’S THE HAPPY ELF

November 27–December 23 DALL AS CHILDREN’S THEATER

DALLAS YMCA TURKEY TROT

November 24

DALL AS CIT Y HALL PL AZA

In the spirit on generosity, consider spending your Thanksgiving morning giving back to the community via this fundraiser for YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. After the run, all ages are welcome at the free Dallas Mavericks Family Zone, offering crafts, puppet shows and photo ops with the giant turkey mascot. Registration from $38 for the 5K or 8-mile runs, and $15

You know what makes us really happy? That this professional children’s theater offers special performances for those who have autism and who are deaf or hard of hearing. Call the box office to book your seats for these sensory-sensitive or American Sign Languageinterpreted shows. Then get ready for a jazz musical starring Eubie the elf, who cheers up the miserable town of Bluesville. Best for 5 and up. Tickets from $18; $5 for sensory show. 214/740-0051; dct.org

F O R M O R E K I D - F R I E N D LY E N T E R T A I N M E N T E V E R Y D AY O F T H E W E E K , V I S I T 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.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIGHTSCAPE; YMCA; ISTOCK

playbook / T H I N G S

$30 off

PRE M I UM

4-PACK CO M B O

I NC LU D E S

4 TIC K ETS

+ $50

FOOD & RI DE

COUPONS

BUY ONLINE & SAVE BIG! USE PROMO CODE

22childCOMBO BIGTEX.COM Valid on new orders only. Not valid on walk-up or daily tickets. Promo code must be applied at the time of purchase. Offer expires 10/23/22.

SEPT. THRU OCT. 30 23

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Family Fun DIRECTORY

33 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES KIDS WILL LOVE

Arkansas State Parks arkansasstateparks.com 501/682-1191

Looking for new adventures for your family and friends? Come together at Arkansas’s 52 state parks and experience endless possibilities. Plan your adventure at arkansasstateparks.com. See ad on page 11.

Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts and Corporate Presentations eisemanncenter.com • 972/744-4650

The Eisemann Center is an important component of the cultural and corporate landscapes in North Texas. The center creates, fosters and sustains an environment of cultural diversity, educational enrichment, and fulfilling experiences benefiting all. See ad on page 19.

City of Highland Village txfallenpd.com 972/899-5105

The TXFallenPD Tribute Event at Doubletree Ranch Park on Saturday, October 15, includes a 5K run, bike race, kid ride with a cop, kids zone, vendors, food trucks, live entertainment and concert by Texas Flood. See ad on page 71.

City of Irving irvingevents.org 972/721-2589

Looking for the things that go bump in the night? Come out to Eerie Irving on October 22 to hang with the city’s ghouls, ghosts and not-so-scary monsters to thrill, shock and entertain! See ad on page 77.

City of Roanoke, TX roanoketexas.com 817/491-2411

Celebrate Roanoke is an 8-block street festival celebrating Roanoke's unique history. Free activities for the whole family! Visit roanoketexas.com/111/celebrate-roanoke for more information. See ad on page 67.

City of Southlake southlakehomefortheholidays.com 817/748-8652

Make every moment memorable by attending Southlake's Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 19, 4:30–6:30pm with the lighting of the tree taking place at 6pm, followed by a fireworks show! Admission is free! See ad on page 76.

Cooper Fitness Center cooperyouth.com 972/560-6310

Come cook with Kids in the Kitchen at Cooper. Your child prepares delicious, nutritious foods while learning healthy cooking skills. Ages 5–13. Open to the public—October 10, November 21, December 12. Register now! See ad on page 69.

Country Critters Farm, LLC countrycrittersfarm.com 817/477-3060

Giant jump pillow, petting zoo, pony rides, train rides, hay rides, wooden maze, pumpkin patch, and much more!

Dallas Children's Theater dct.org/plays 214/740-0051

Harry Connick, Jr.'s The Happy Elf runs November 27–December 23. From the Grammy– winning musician, Harry Connick, Jr. this jazz musical is sure to get you in the holiday spirit! See ad on page 11.

Dallas Children's Theater dct.org 214/740-0051

Junie B.'s Essential Survival Guide to School running September 24–October 30. In this musical extravaganza great for back-to-school time, Junie B. Jones learns some important lessons about school, patience, and personal growth. See ad on page 71.

The Dallas Opera dallasopera.org/seasons/family-performances 214/443-1000

Stories with music—that’s what opera’s all about! Join us for these fun, kid-friendly events. The Dallas Opera presents The Billy Goats Gruff and The Elixir of Love this fall for just $5. See ad on page 69.

Denton County Museums dentoncounty.gov/chos 940/349-2850

Check out Park After Dark, a special Halloween event at the Bayless-Selby House Museum, on Saturday, October 22 from 5–8pm. Free! At the Courthouse Museum, see the Making A Scene music exhibit. See ad on page 16.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden Botanical Research Institute of Texas fwbg.org • 817/332-4441

Families enjoy strolling through our beautiful 120-acre Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Register for children or adult educational classes or buy tickets to this year's sensational Lightscape event November 18–January 8. For more info visit fwbg.org.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District fortworthstockyards.com • 817/625-9715

Twice-daily cattle drives, cattle pen maze, horseback riding, petting zoo, historical tours, mechanical bull rides, Friday and Saturday night rodeos, plus holiday ice skating and spectacular light displays starting November 25. See ad on page 14.

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra fwsymphony.org 817/665-6000

Explore all types of dance music from around the world. From traditional to folk and ballet to modern, hear how an orchestra dances as you discover the rhythmic power of cultural dance and music. See ad on page 61.

Gaylord Texan Resort gaylordtexan.com 817/778-1000

Millions of twinkling lights, dozens of activities and events, including the return of ICE! One incredible holiday experience. It’s So. Much. Christmas. at Gaylord Texan Resort, and it all starts on November 11. See ad on page 3.

Grapevine Parks & Recreation gograpevine.com/caroloflights 817/410-3450

Monday, November 21, is Carol of Lights on Grapevine Main. 4pm activities for the family; 6:30pm tree lighting ceremony. Then end the night with a light/fireworks show at City Hall at 7:30pm or 8:30pm. See ad on page 63.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary heardmuseum.org • 972/562-5566

Let your imagination run wild as you travel back in time with 11 animatronic dinosaurs and photo-op dinosaurs in our nature preserve. Plus, enjoy indoor exhibits, special events, educational programs, and more. See ad on page 12.

Heritage Farmstead Museum heritagefarmstead.org/events-1/lights-onthe-farm-2022 • 972/881-0140

Thanksgiving week marks the return of Lights on the Farm. The Heritage Farmstead Museum is transformed into a delightful winter wonderland with more than one million lights and numerous animated holiday displays. See ad on page 67.

HostEasy LLC simplyhosteasy.com

We are the extra set of hands for all your hosting needs—tailgating, holiday family get togethers, birthday parties, or a simple girls night watching event. Setup, serving and cleanup included! See ad on page 16.

Irving Archives and Museum irvingarchivesandmuseum.com 972/721-3700

Irving Archives and Museum is a community history museum packed with fun for the whole family! Experience history, traveling exhibitions, and a Smithsonian Spark!Lab where young visitors get to explore the process of invention.

Kimbell Art Museum kimbellart.org 817/332-8451

Join us for our free 50th Anniversary Celebration and Family Festival on Saturday, October 8. The celebration continues all year long with drop-in programs, in-gallery story times, artmaking activities, and more. Details at kimbellart.org.

The Lakefront at Little Elm lakefrontlittleelm.com 972/731-3296

From our pristine sandy beach to plenty of restaurants, events, and activities, Lakefront at Little Elm is an escape from the city where everyone can come together to have fun and let loose. See ad on page 71.

North Texas Performing Arts ntpa.org 972/422-2575

Explore the performing arts with dozens of family-friendly fall shows and upcoming auditions in Plano, Fairview, Frisco, Dallas and Southlake. Middle schoolers can compete in the annual NTPA speech and drama tournament on November 5! See ad on page 73.

NorthPark Center northparkcenter.com 214/363-7441

Celebrate your holidays with NorthPark Center! See ad on page 4.

Plano International Festival planointernationalfestival.org 214/495-7838

Tour the world on Saturday, October 15 at the Plano International Festival! Enjoy multicultural food, music and fun! 11am–5pm, Haggard Park. Free admission. Wellness fair at 10am will offer free flu shots and screenings. See ad on page 68.

Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/296-9950

See Dallas from a whole new perspective! Day or night, the iconic Reunion Tower is the top family spot for fun and sightseeing. Visit our website for hours and upcoming special events. See ad on page 6.

River Legacy Nature Center riverlegacy.org 817/860-6752

Visit us this November to explore the history of dragons through artifacts, activities, and real-life lizards during our newest visiting exhibit Here Be Dragons: From Lizards to Legends created by Build4Impact. See ad on page 63.

The Shops at Highland Village theshopsathighlandvillage.com 972/317-7500

Fun at The Shops at Highland Village! Halloween Celebration: October 30, 1–4pm. Costume party with fun activities and candy. Our Village Glows: November 19, 5:30–8pm. Holiday tree lighting with Santa, music, carriage rides and more. See ad on page 73.

State Fair of Texas bigtex.com 214/565-9931

The 2022 State Fair of Texas runs from Friday, September 30, to Sunday, October 23. Join Big Tex for a day of family fun, great fair food, and Texas traditions. See ad on page 63.

Texas Ballet Theater texasballettheater.org 877/828-9200

Texas Ballet Theater presents The Nutcracker, an annual holiday tradition. Featuring dazzling choreography and exquisite sets, this classic ballet celebrates the season with enchantment, snowflakes, and sweets. See ad on page 13.

'Twas the Night Before... By Cirque du Soleil axs.com • 972/854-5050

The acclaimed family holiday theatrical ‘Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil is making its Dallas debut at the Texas Trust CU Theatre, Friday, November 25–Sunday, December 11, 2022. See ad on page 61.

Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery vetroartglass.com • 817/251-1668

Join us this fall at Vetro for family-friendly live glassblowing events and demonstrations. Ages 12+ can help create their own glass pumpkins and ornaments that make for an unforgettable experience! See ad on page 77.

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

playbook / T R A V E L E D I TO R’ S P I C K NEWMAN’S CASTLE & N E W M A N ’ S BA K E RY BELLVILLE

979/865-9804 newmanscastle.com The 3.5-hour trip south from DFW is well worth it to tour this impressive replica of a Scottish castle—scratch that, fortress—with a moat, a working drawbridge, and five corner turrets that overlook the sprawling wooded estate and are accessible via winding staircases. Its resident royal is local bakery owner Mike Newman, who in 1998 designed and began building the castle himself, with the help of only one other assistant, as his private residence. Newman continues to live there full-time, offering tours Mondays through Saturdays and special events year-round. Here’s how to visit: Call the bakery in advance to register for a tour. Saturdays tend to sell out in advance. Check in by 10:30am at the bakery on Bellville’s Main Street (this is a great opportunity to snag a castle-shaped sugar cookie) to pay for the tour. Tickets are $20 per person and $10 for kids 6 and younger. They’ll provide you with a wristband and a slip of paper with the castle’s private address about 5 miles away. Upon your arrival, you’ll take in the panoramic view of the pond and moat full of glistening lily pads, a wooden trebuchet, and a nature trail that encircles the property. Finn, a spry Irish wolfhound puppy who likes belly

➽ ABOVE: Inside Newman’s Castle, you can practice your sword-fighting skills in the gravel courtyard and climb up to ring the bells in the tallest tower. // RIGHT: The dungeon in one of the corner turrets showcases medieval torture devices, like the bed of nails (not sharp), and toy skeletons.

Tour these three castles and historic homes around Texas WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

IF YOU’VE CAUGHT YOURSELF WISTFULLY SCROLLING the new castles category on Airbnb, or your child is dead set on a princess costume for Halloween, it might be time for you both to indulge in your fairy tale fantasies by venturing out to these real(ish) castles in Texas. And we’re using the term “castle” loosely here, as our historic Texan homes arguably cannot compare to the centuries-old palaces of Europe, but we generally define them as having a) at least three stories, b) towers or turrets (those notches as part of its defensive architecture), c) regular tours open to the public, and d) that wow factor. Here’s what you’ll need to know about planning a fall family road trip to these not-so-humble abodes. 66

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

scratches, pesters the ducks. On the Saturday I visited, the crowd included a friendly horde of children wearing their own tiaras and crowns. Kids are welcome to grab a wooden stick for play sword fighting and to carry with them during the tour. The king eventually emerges from the castle donning his own crown and tunic, and addresses the tour group under a shaded pavilion. He gives an introduction of the castle’s history, leads the kids in imagining when knights and kings defended their homes from invaders, and empowers them to throw misbehaving guests in the dungeon. (He’s only half kidding. There

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELIZABETH SMITH; ISTOCK

CASTLES IN THE SKY

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

NOVEMBER 25 – DECEMBER 30

Heritage Farmstead Museum is transformed into a delightful winter wonderland with more than one million lights. Animated holiday displays • 20-foot Christmas tree Hot cocoa • Kettle corn • Make you own s’mores Photos with Santa in his farmshop

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

playbook / T R A V E L

really is a dungeon here.) Then he knights the boys and girls one by one with a tap of his sword. It’s very sweet. To usher the crowd into the fortress, a staffer or two opens the drawbridge by climbing inside a giant hamster wheel of sorts that manually raises the portcullis. Once inside, you’re free to explore every corner of the castle at your leisure. Kids will love to ring the bell by climbing the bell tower and pulling on the heavy chains. The walls of the tower rooftops are quite high, but you’ll of course need to keep a close eye on your child just in case they decide to scale a wall. The open courtyard has plenty of space to chase imaginary dragons. In fact, you’ll find the 13 dragons depicted on-site. Ask for a dragon stamp on the hand when you find them all, or if you want one just because. When you’re feeling hungry, head into the air-conditioned dining hall for a lunch of sandwiches and donuts provided by staff and this most hospitable king.

SINGING IN THE GARDEN CLASSES NOW REGISTERING FOR FALL Classes held in Lake Highlands, Oak Cliff, Forest Hills, Lakewood, Richardson and Preston/Forest Like to start a class in your neighborhood? Contact Kathy. kathysmusicandmovement.weebly.com kathysmusicandmovement kathysmusicandmovement@gmail.com 214-724-8440

MAGNOLIA CASTLE

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

WACO

254/235-0603 magnolia.com This one’s for the moms who love everything Chip and Joanna Gaines touch, but you’ll need to act quickly before it’s put on the market. Here’s the back story: Originally named the Cottonland Castle, this Gothic sandstone and limestone structure was first built in 1890 by stone contractor John Tennant, with additions that continued through 1913. The historic home became the focal point of Waco’s Castle Heights neighborhood but sat vacant for nearly

20 years until the couple purchased it in 2019. They chronicle the entire renovation in the new season of “Fixer Upper: Welcome Home,” airing on Magnolia Network starting October 14. Watch its transformation on TV, or see it for yourself in-person by registering for a one-hour guided tour through the fully-staged home, open now through October 26. Chip and Joanna Gaines plan to sell Magnolia Castle as a home—and we’re already jealous of the new owners. Lovers of Fixer Upper will agree that the renovations are achingly beautiful, and as the tour guides (mine was a Baylor student) explain, the couple kept as many of the original materials and touches as possible, down to the height notches of former resident children carved into the stone hearth in what’s now the dining room. The third floor is not part of the tour, but the basement is, which has been renovated into an expansive family room (with the only TV in the house) and a moody card room. Guests are welcome to open cabinets and doors, they just ask that you don’t touch the smaller objects on display or sit on the beds. The tours cost $50 per person; children 7 and younger are free and are especially welcome to join the tours. If $50 sounds steep, keep in mind they’re donating 20% of net profits to The Cove, a local nonprofit benefiting homeless youth. Go online to book your tour, offered between 9am and 5pm Monday–Saturday. If you’re visiting during that last week, make a weekend of it and stay for the annual Silobration at Magnolia’s ever-expanding grounds near downtown Waco. The event, October 27–29, features concerts and a temporary roller skating rink at the wiffle ball park.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELIZABETH SMITH; MOODY MANSION; ISTOCK

➽ ABOVE: Chip and Joanna Gaines’ renovation of the 1890 Magnolia Castle includes the addition of this conservatory with reclaimed black and white concrete tile flooring and lots of plants. // LOWER RIGHT: One mile from the Moody Mansion in Galveston is another historic landmark open for tours: the 1892 Bishop’s Palace.

MO ODY MANSION & G A LV E S T O N C H I L D R E N ’ S MUSEUM GALVESTON

409/762-7668; 409/572-2544 www.moodymansion.org; galvestoncm.org Your family itching for a beach vacation? Add this Galveston “castle” with its own children’s museum to your must-visit list. Completed in 1895, the four-story Moody Mansion was built with limestone and brick as an example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, a style inspired by medieval Europe. The self-guided daily tours, with audio devices for narration, cover 20 rooms, including the ballroom where the Moody children and grandchildren were known to play. A brand new exhibition inside the mansion called Growing Up Moody explores the personal histories of the four children who grew up in the mansion: Mary, William III, Shearn and Libbie. It was their parents who purchased the mansion shortly after it survived the 1900 hurricane that devastated the island. The self-guided tour is $15 adults; $7 children; under 6 free. A $34 family package includes up to two adults and two children. For $35 per person, book a two-hour docentguided tour on Fridays and Saturdays to see areas not normally open to the public, like the top floor where the highest turret looks out over the gulf.

But the real draw for families with young children is on the ground floor. Since 2014, the Galveston Children’s Museum has offered a wealth of activities for kids ages 2–10. Nine permanent play areas to choose from means your kids’ interests will lead them from catching blue crabs from a mini fishing boat or jumping on a light-up dance floor to putting on their own production in the puppet theater. The UTMB Kids Clinic, with stuffed animal patients and a digital skeleton that mimics your body movements, is designed to encourage littles to associate positive feelings toward doctors. Visit Wednesday–Sunday for $10; under 2 free; $3 admission for families using SNAP benefits or Medicaid. For extra fun, look ahead on their calendar for upcoming special events, such as Da Vinci Day on Saturday, October 8. DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

playbook / W I L D L I F E CONGRESS AV E N U E BRIDGE AUSTIN

➽ ABOVE: The colony of Mexican free-tailed bats trickles out from Congress Avenue Bridge against the glow of sunset. // RIGHT: Nightwing, a statue by local artist Dale Whistler, is one of many bat symbols around Austin. // BELOW: An inside view of Clarity Tunnel, an abandoned railroad tunnel at Caprock Canyon State Park in the Panhandle.

NIGHT FLIGHTS Where to watch lateseason bat emergences around Texas WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

BATS— THEY’RE NOCTURNAL, HANG UPSIDE DOWN,

and may or may not also be vampires. It’s no wonder they’ve become synonymous with Halloween. And as that spooky holiday nears, we’re reminded about the very real creatures that inspire so much fear and awe. Experts say they’re highly misunderstood creatures that fulfill an important part of our ecosystems by eating moths and other bugs and pollinating plants. (Yep, move over butterflies, bats are pollinators, too!) They emerge at dusk for nightly hunting and form black swirling clouds or, I’ll use my husband’s term here, bat-nado. They’re magical to witness—they being Mexican free-tail bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) whose densest concentrations can be found here in Texas thanks to large maternity colonies roosting in caves, abandoned mines and under bridges. Thankfully, it’s not too late to see them in-person again before they all migrate south for winter. They can be seen through late October and mid-November until that first cold front hits. Note that reservations are sold-out for tours through the world’s largest bat colony at Bracken Cave, located on private property outside San Antonio (book early for next year at batcon.org), but you can catch the tail end of bat season at these popular destinations around Texas.

Our state’s capital city is also home to the country’s largest urban bat colony. Interestingly, when the Congress Avenue Bridge, which stretches over Lady Bird Lake near downtown, was renovated in 1980, the 16-inch-deep expansion joints underneath inadvertently doubled as an ideal bat shelter. Fast forward 40 years and now roughly 1.5 million bats roost under the bridge each summer. The city welcomes onlookers to view the bats from the pedestrian portion of the bridge above or, more safely away from traffic, from the lawn underneath at Austin American-Statesman’s Bat Observation area at 305 South Congress Avenue. That’s on the opposite side of the road as the Nightwing, the famed bat statue by Dale Whistler and a great spot for a photo op. (You’ll find many more bat symbols around the city, which adopted the bat as its official animal emblem in 2010.) Bat watching is a huge tourist attraction for Austin, so be sure to arrive well before sunset to secure the best viewing spot on the lawn. Blankets and chairs are welcome, too. Though for a more adventurous outing and a better vantage point, get out onto the water by renting a kayak or joining a boat cruise. Several companies offer sunset boat and kayak tours and water sports equipment for evening rentals. Austin Bat Refuge has an exhaustive list at austinbatrefuge.org. A couple notable ones include Lone Star Riverboat (512/327-1388; lonestarriverboat. com) for its nightly bat-watching tours through early November. Reservations are $13 adults; $8 children; under 3 free. Live Love Paddle (512/804-2122; livelovepaddle.com) offers bat-watching kayaking tours on Thursdays through Sundays ($55) and Mondays ($50). Reservations are required, and kids must weigh at least 30 pounds and wear a lifejacket. Ask for the tandem kayaks, so you’ll be sure not to be separated out on the water. Keep in mind that bats are never guaranteed to emerge en masse each night. Check austinbatrefuge.org for the most up-to-date predictions of bat flights based on weather.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DALE WHISTLER ; EARL NOTTINGHAM, TPWD; ISTOCK

3.5 hours south of Dallas 512/695-4116; austinbatrefuge.org

Perfect for back-to-school time, Junie B.’s got some great advice for you!

SEPT. 24 thru OCT. 30

Ages 5 and up

SCAN THE CODE FOR MORE INFO!

Book & Lyrics by Marcy Heisler, Music by Zina Goldrich Adapted from the Junie B. Jones series of books by Barbara Park Directed by Nancy Schaeffer JUNIE B.’s ESSENTIAL SURVIVAL GUIDE TO SCHOOL, produced through special arrangement with Music Theatre International www.MTIshows[dot]com.

dct.org LITTLE ELM PARK | NOV. 25 - DEC. 27

214-740-0051

5938 Skillman @ NW Hwy. Dallas, TX 75231 Always FREE parking

Tickets as low as $17!

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

playbook / W I L D L I F E

➽ ABOVE: Visitors flock to this lookout spot to see the Waugh Drive Bat Colony, the second largest urban bat colony in the U.S. with more than a quarter million bats.

HOUSTON

4 hours southeast of Dallas facebook.com/houstonbatteam A smaller colony, approximately 250,000–300,000 Mexican freetail bats, lives along the Waugh Drive Bridge crossing over Buffalo Bayou Park (buffalobayou.org), a lush, urban oasis that cuts through the center of sprawling Houston. Volunteers with the Houston Bat Team host Friday night bat chats through October (on the first, third and last Fridays) about 20 minutes before sunset. To join, park in designated lots along Allen Parkway or at Spotts Park. The paved trail runs right underneath the bridge, which makes for a more intimate viewing of the emergence at dusk. Docents will momentarily shine a red light onto the bats hanging right overhead, so that you can see them more clearly, as well as point out resident night herons and hawks, all waiting to hunt the bats when they emerge. To keep the path clear for bikes and roller skaters, you’ll need to sit on either the concrete curb or on the steep grassy slope, so don’t bother to bring chairs or blankets. Earlier in the day while you’re awaiting sunset, let the kids work out their energy at the nature play area, about 1.5 miles east at 105 Sabine Street. The play area has a boulder 72

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

rock scramble, a rolling lawn, a stream and waterfall, climbing logs and stones, and a 33-foot slide. Have your pup with you, too? Bring them along to the dog park, equipped with water pools and separate parks for pups large and small.

CLARITY TUNNEL QUITAQUE

5 hours northwest of Fort Worth 806/455-1492; tpwd.texas.gov Over in the Texas Panhandle, Caprock Canyons State Park is known for its roaming Texas State Bison Herd, glowing sandstone canyons, and this colony of up to half a million bats that roosts in an abandoned railroad tunnel. Built in the early ‘20s, the tunnel located along the Caprock Canyons Trailway, is open to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. It’s remote territory, so unless you’re prepared to rough it, you’re better off going with a guided vehicle tour. The state park offers guided tours only at the height of the season through late summer, but the bats are still around through October. So reach out to one of the local outfits, such as Saint’s Roost Expedition Company (806/277-0123; saints-roost.com). Online registration is available for tours in air-conditioned vehicles through October 9. Kids must be at least 5 years old; groups of 4–9 people per tour. $30 per guest; park admission paid separately.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELIZABETH SMITH

WA U G H DRIVE BRIDGE

• Preschool through high school • Small class sizes • Rolling admissions throughout year • Social learning curriculum at all grade levels • On-site therapy (speech, OT, and DIR Floortime) • 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

DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

playbook / F E S T I V A L S FRIGHTS’N LIGHTS

October 1– 31, times vary Halloween fun goes all month long at this nottoo-spooky lights attraction outside the Frisco RoughRiders’ home stadium. The thousands of intricately carved jack-o’-lanterns bring on the creepy vibes. On the kiddie entertainment front, the loads of unique activities like a corn kernel pit, a Frankenstein-themed foam pit, and a creepy carnival with games like pumpkin bowling. Where: Riders Ballpark, 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco; 214/500-4289, frightsnlights.com Admission: $21.99 adults; $18.99 children; under 3 free.

P L A N O I N T E R NAT I O NA L F E S T I VA L

October 15, 11am–5pm Tour the world and improve your wellness at this annual fest honoring the diversity in Plano’s community. Here in the heart of downtown Plano, you’ll experience a taste of more than 100 cultures through music and dance performances, food trucks and educational displays. Plus, kids can explore STEM activities and travel from booth to booth with a virtual passport. And the wellness part? In Courtyard Theater from 10am–1pm, join the fitness demos in the FitZone and get your free flu and COVID-19 shots and more health screenings. Where: Haggard Park, 901 East 15th Street, Plano; 214-495-7838, planointernationalfestival.org Admission: FREE

CORINTH PUMPKIN PA L O O Z A

ALL THE FALL FEELS From pumpkin festivals to holiday fetes, ‘tis the season for family fun WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

THE FUN STARTS NOW. When we look at all the festive events starting this fall and continuing through the holidays, our trick-or-treating bucket runneth over. See below for a roundup of even more of our favorite kid-friendly happenings—from cultural festivals and Halloween parties, right through to the beginning of Christmas festivities across Dallas-Fort Worth. 74

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

E E R I E I RV I NG

October 22, 6–10pm Irving Parks and Recreation invites the community out to this walk-thru Halloween festival with options for those who like to be scared and for those who aren’t yet ready for it. The enclosed haunted scenes feature a haunted wedding chapel, a graveyard and more encounters with pirates and zombies. Or you can take your younger ones straight to the free carnival games

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRISCO SQUARE

➽ ABOVE: These locals go all out with their family group costume as Mario, Luigi, Bowser and Princess Peach at Trick or Treat the Square in Frisco. Come on October 29 for the people watching and for the candy.

October 15, 11am–9pm Pumpkin Palooza combines all the things we love about fall into one amazing day: pumpkins, hot air balloons, and free kids’ activities. Expect a full lineup of musical entertainers on two stages, amusement park rides, a petting zoo and a pumpkin patch with pumpkins for sale. If you feel like getting crafty, paint your own spooky masterpiece with a provided pumpkin and paints. And for a $20 fee, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the festival in tethered balloon rides (weather permitting) from 6–8pm. Where: Corinth Community Park, 3700 Corinth Pkwy, Corinth; 940/498-3200, corinthpumpkinpalooza.com Admission: FREE

Mom Approved 2023 OB-GYNS, MIDWIVES & FERTILITY SPECIALISTS HAVE AN OB-GYN, MIDWIFE, OR FERTILITY SPECIALIST YOU’D RECOMMEND? WE WANT TO KNOW!

SCAN ME

Survey closes November 16, 2022 facebook.com/dfwchild instagram.com/dfwchildmag pinterest.com/dfwchild twitter.com/dfwchild

playbook / F E S T I V A L S

Saturday, November 19, 2022 4:30 PM–8:30 PM

Southlake Town Square, 1400 E. Southlake Blvd. The free holiday festivities begin at 4:30 PM with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 PM, plus a one-minute fireworks show! + Discover Christmas magic at every turn + Get a head start on your holiday shopping + Spend precious moments with loved ones VISITSOUTHLAKETEXAS.COM

and rides. Make sure you’re there at the top of the hour when the first 100 guests score free pumpkins. Where: Trinity View Park, 2221 East State Highway 356, Irving; 972/721-2501, irvingevents.org Admission: FREE

T R I C K O R T R E AT T H E S Q UA R E

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.

Visit our calendar: dfwchild.com/calendar

Scan with your phone’s camera

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

October 29, 1–4pm Show off your Halloween costumes and check out what everyone else is wearing at this daytime festival at Frisco Square’s Simpson Plaza. (It’s a great alternative, too, to nighttime trick-or-treating if you’re wary of navigating residential neighborhoods after dark.) The community is welcome to enjoy carnival games, inflatables and horse wagon rides around the square. Where: Simpson Plaza at Frisco Square, 8843 Coleman Blvd., Frisco; 214/872-1054, friscosquare.com Admission: FREE

B I G C AT PUMPKIN TOSS & F A L L F E S T I VA L

November 5, 11am–4pm Pumpkins aren’t just for carving and photo ops. They’re for eating and playing, too—at least for the rescued big cats at InSync Exotics. The lions, tigers, cougars—they’ll all receive their own fall treats during this annual event that’s open to the public. The day includes face painting, a bounce house and

games for kids. Make you’re sure there by 2pm to watch how the cats react to their pumpkins. Where: In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center, 3430 Skyview Drive, Wylie; 972/442-6888, insyncexotics.org/events Admission: $15 adults; $10 kids ages 4–12; free for kids under 4

H O L I DAY AT THE ARBORETUM

November 9–December 31; 9am–5pm and 6–9pm Soon after its Autumn at the Arboretum festival concludes, Dallas Arboretum ushers in the return of its 12 Days of Christmas gazebos and Christmas Village with the Dazzling Musical Tree at its center. Come visit during the daytime or after dark to see everything lit up, and don’t miss the new exhibit in the DeGolyer House honoring Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanzaa. Look online for details about Santa visits and special family entertainment throughout the season. Where: Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas; 214/5156615, dallasarboretum.org Admission: Daytime admission: $20 adults; $12 children; under 2 free. From $10 for nighttime admission.

STORIES & SONGS W I T H S A N TA

November 25–December 24; hours vary NorthPark Center’s many holiday festivities kick off the

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IN-SYNC EXOTICS WILDLIFE RESCUE AND EDUCATIONAL CENTER; MCKINNEY MAIN STREET

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

➽ ABOVE: A Bengal tiger named Big Sultan, rescued in December 2016 by In-Sync Exotics in Wylie, crunches into his fall treat. Watch him and all the big cats get their own pumpkins during the Big Cat Pumpkin Toss on November 5. // RIGHT: Santa steps off the trolley in front of McKinney’s Old Collin County Courthouse during the annual Christmas festival the weekend after Thanksgiving.

day after Thanksgiving including, most notably, a new Santa experience with Joel Lagrone. He’s not only an aerospace engineer (how else would he fly his sleigh?) but he’s also a guitarist and singer. And each day through Christmas Eve, Santa kicks off his day of visits with an all-new story time with original sing-alongs with sleigh bells and rock ‘n’ roll guitar. Stop by Macy’s Court on level one at 10:30am Mondays–Saturdays and at noon on Sundays. Where: NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 214/363-7441, northparkcenter.com Admission: Visits begin at $25 (includes donation to Children’s Health) and must be booked online in advance. All bookings will be released at noon on November 20.

HOME FOR THE H O L I DAY S : A MCKINNEY CHRISTMAS

November 25–27; hours vary Thanksgiving weekend marks the 41st year for this hometown Christmas celebration. The 14-block area of McKinney’s 165-year-old commercial historic downtown hosts all the family activities, food and entertainment. Ring in the winter holiday cheer here in Downtown McKinney, known for its small-town feel with a big holiday spirit. The festival opens Friday at 10:30am and runs through Sunday and features the town tree lighting, Where: Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 North Tennessee Street, McKinney; 972/547-2660, mckinneychristmas.com Admission: FREE

For more festivals and daily events, visit our online calendar at dfwchild.com/calendar. DFWCHILD | october/november 2022

➽ ABOVE: The June 1989 issue of DallasChild featuring Dallas’ then-mayor Annette Strauss, and local kids, including the author

and the photographer’s son.

I DON’T REMEMBER MUCH about the actual photoshoot, but I do remember finding just the right spot for it. I rode in the backseat of my mother’s old vanilla-colored Mercedes-Benz station wagon while she and our then-editor, Nina Flournoy, drove around Dallas scouting locations for the cover shoot. We pulled off Sylvan Avenue and parked near the levy overlooking downtown Dallas. My mom and Nina saw something, and told me to wait in the car. To 5-year-old me it just looked like a fallen tree limb, but they rushed back to the car with unusual urgency. We sped to the Anatole Hotel where we used their landline phone (this was 1989, remember). A true journalist, Nina’s first call was to the Dallas Morning News newsroom, where her husband, Pulitzer-prize winning journalist Craig Flournoy, worked. What was she calling for? To report a dead body. Naturally, her second call was to the police, my mother recalls. Sixteen years later I’m sitting in Nina’s Corporate Communications class at SMU when she holds up the day’s Dallas Morning News and asks, “Lauren, does this remind you of anything?” Without hesitation I recognized the view and said, “Yes!” “Lauren and I found a dead body together,” Nina tells the stunned class. Unsurprisingly, we didn’t end up shooting the cover at the levy. Finding a dead body where you’re going to bring together the mayor and some children for an issue celebrating kid-friendly Dallas didn’t quite mesh. Instead, we found a field near the Dallas Arboretum with equally stunning views for our shoot, which featured then-mayor Annette Strauss and a cluster of kids including two of her grandchildren; former Dallas Mavericks player Rolondo Blackman’s daughter; the photographer’s son, and me, in the pink jumper.

Looking back WORDS LAUREN NIEBES

october/november 2022 | DFWCHILD

DALLAS CHILD COVER: JOHN HAYNSWORTH

past + present

Affordable, trustworthy childcare

Small Miracles Academy Let’s learn, laugh & grow together!

Infants • Toddlers & Twos • Preschoolers Pre-Kindergarten • After Schoolers

Schedule a tour today!

7 convenient locations Allen: 214-504-3841 N. Garland: 972-515-2221

E. Plano: 972-515-2248 W. Plano: 972-515-2236 Mesquite: 972-591-0301

Richardson: 972-591-0892 Sachse: 469-417-6568 SmallMiraclesAcademy.org

A passion for putting patients (and their babies) first. Deliver your baby at the #1 hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth. For nearly 80 years, the obstetricians and gynecologists at UT Southwestern Medical Center have been protecting and improving the health of women and their babies. At our William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital – ranked #1 in the region by U.S. News & World Report – we offer new moms a wide range of patient-centered services, including spacious labor and delivery suites, chef-prepared meals, and, if needed, private neonatal intensive care rooms. We also provide state-of the-art surgical and nonsurgical care across the spectrum of gynecologic disorders. You can count on us to deliver the compassionate, expert care you, your baby, and your family deserve. It’s all part of putting patients first – and making your experience as special as your newborn child.

LEARN MORE:

DFWChild October/November 2022

Articles inside

Looking Back

Family Fun / Night Flights

Hello / From Baby to Braces

Travel / Castles in Texas

Ask the Experts / Sound Advice

Mom Next Door

Worth a Thousand Words

Briefs / That’s Amore

Pediatric Dental Hygiene 101