DFWChild December 2022/January 2023

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one to remember

ABOVE //

Amanda Collins Bernier with her sons Max and Owen.

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MY 5-YEAR-OLD SON JUST SENT OFF HIS FIRST-EVER LETTER TO SANTA. He’s old enough now to scribble out his wishes, and big enough to understand how the mail works (though he’s a bit worried about the mailman navigating the icy North Pole). As I marveled at his new “big ness,” something struck me: this is definitely a Christmas that he will remember.

That thought filled me with awe—then panic. More than ever, I have to make it special, I told myself.

The realization that my oldest is reaching the age where his childhood experiences will become crystalized memories has crossed my mind more than once lately. Recently, I was telling my mom how I remembered my own kindergarten experience— the cubbies, the playground, the crafts and circle time. “Do you remember what you got for Christmas that year?” she asked excitedly, clearly remembering something special. But as hard as I tried to recall, I had no idea.

Come to think of it, save for a beloved doll or the year I got a real, live bunny, I don’t really remember any of the presents I got for Christmas. Instead, I remember leaving out cookies and milk and scanning the sky for signs of reindeer, the smell of the breakfast casserole my mom made every Christmas morning, and the buzz of our house later that afternoon, packed with rela tives and friends. So as I prepare for perhaps the first holiday season that my son will really remember, I’m trying to keep this mind. The magic is in the presence, not the presents.

That being so, we’ve packed this issue with plenty of ideas for you to make memories with your kids this season. This issue also features dozens of activities for this most wonderful time of the year—from dazzling lights and visits with Santa to ice skating and holiday trains. And the fun continues as we turn the calendar page to a new year, with live shows and rodeos kicking off 2023.

If you’re interested in the different options for your child’s education in DFW—and there are many—check out our annual Private Schools List on page 20.

This issue is filled with so much more—resources, sup port and solutions to the daily challenges of raising kids. So in between all the magic and memory-making, we hope you’ll enjoy the read.

HOW TO CONTACT

Address: P.O. Box 2269 Addison, Texas 75001

US:

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 ©2023 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.

Sniffles, surgeries, sing-alongs

More than care. Connection.

Hello, neighbor! We want you to know that we’re all in this together. Because “together” is the best way to shape treatment plans made just for your child––ones that are built by a team of doctors, families and patients. That’s what it means to deliver care that connects.

Find care: cookchildrens.org

noted.

THE STORY ON BANNED BOOKS

FROM HUCKLEBERRY FINN TO HARRY POTTER, book banning has a long history in the U.S. But while literary challenges are nothing new, the issue has reached fever pitch in recent years. And the hotbed is right here in Texas.

The Lone Star state leads the nation in book bans in class rooms and school libraries, according to PEN America, a nonprofit group that advocates for freedom of expression. Between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022, the group tallied a total of 800 book bans in schools across Texas. Compare that to states like Alaska, Maryland, or Maine for instance, which saw just one book removed from school shelves over the same period.

The Dallas-Fort Worth area has been a war zone in the book banning battle. Last October, Fort Worth state Rep. Matt Krause asked schools to report whether they had more than 800 books about racism, gender and sexuality on their shelves. Then this fall, Keller Independent School District made national headlines for removing 41 books—including the Bible— before the first day of school. And most recently, a battle over displaying LBGTQ books has sim mered at the Arlington Public Library.

“The number of books that are being challenged and banned in Texas is unprecedented,” says Shirley Robinson, executive director of the Texas Library Association. “And that increase is a direct reflection of the very divisive times we are living in.”

Proponents for removing certain books from libraries, particularly in schools, cite worries that content could be dangerous or inappropriate for children. Those arguing to keep books on shelves maintain that everyone has the right to free inquiry and the equally important right to form their own opinions. So what does the issue really mean for parents and how does it affect your family? Here’s the story on banned books.

WHAT IS A BOOK BAN AND HOW IS IT DIF FERENT THAN A BOOK CHALLENGE?

A challenge is a request to remove or restrict materials from a library or classroom. Depending on a district or library’s policy, challenged books may or may not re main in circulation while undergoing review.

A ban is the potential outcome of a book challenge, and means that the material has been removed from the classroom or library.

PEN America defines a school book ban as “any action tak en against a book based on its content … that leads to a previously accessible book being either completely removed from availability to students, or where access to a book is restricted or diminished.”

WHY IS THIS SUCH AN ISSUE?

The debate around which books belong in school classrooms and libraries picked up steam following the pandemic. “Parents became more involved with their children’s learning during that time,” says Auguste Meyrat,

WORDS AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER ILLUSTRATION RENÉE HIGGINS

What parents should know about this hot-button issue

• Preschool through high school

• Small class sizes

• 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

•

THE STORY ON BANNED BOOKS

a writer and English teacher in the DFW area. “They noticed how much the texts have changed and started investigating what other books were being taught or available for check out at the school library.”

Meyrat says that in the 15 years he’s been teaching, he saw a trend in textbooks and novels beginning to feature “more mature themes that might upset parents.”

“If we’re talking about much younger readers, I think we need to be very careful just what ideas we share with them,” he says.

But Lucy Podmore, chair of the Texas Association of School Librarians, isn’t con vinced that concerned parents are at the center of those pushing for bans. Instead, she says, it seems to be more political in nature.

“When you have people at a school board meeting reading aloud the most graphic three sentences of a 400-page book, taken out of context, that’s harmful,” she says. “And it seems to be a coordinated effort.”

Among the books most frequently re moved from Texas schools is “Gender Queer: A Memoir,” a graphic novel by Maia Kobabe that chronicles the author’s journey to identi fying as nonbinary and asexual. The memoir is explicit in places, and covers topics like gender confusion, sexual identity, unset tling sexual encounters and sexual fantasies. Another is Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye,” which touches on many themes, including rape, incest, domestic violence, alcoholism, infant mortality, and racism.

Those may seem like shocking topics, but Podmore emphasizes that when building collections, librarians are trained to select literature that represents the entire communi ty—not a select few. She says students should not only see themselves represented in books, but the larger community, including people with different life experiences than their own.

“Censoring books that explore the real-life experiences of often marginalized communities by arguing that these lived experiences are somehow ‘inappropriate’ can have long-term consequences on a child,” Robinson agrees. “It’s already hard enough to be a kid, and books offer an escape and a place to find community. Literature opens a child’s mind to new ideas and different worlds, helping them to become more empa thetic, curious, and open-minded.”

WHAT IF YOU DON’T WANT YOUR CHILD TO READ CERTAIN BOOKS?

It’s understandable that there are some top ics parents might not want their children exposed to, or that they’d want to explore together. But seeking to outright ban a book is not the right approach, librarians say.

“Every parent has a right to regulate what their own child reads,” says Podmore. “But they shouldn’t be regulating that for families that might be different than them.”

In Texas public libraries, policies are set by their governing authority. If patrons sub mit a formal request for a reconsideration, the library director reviews the request along with the material to determine whether it meets the collection policy criteria.

School districts have similar policies. In the Dallas Independent School District, for example, formally challenged materials are reviewed by a committee of administrators, staff and members of the school community.

But Podmore says that in most cases, parents’ issues can be settled without a formal challenge.

“People want to be heard when they say, ‘I don’t think this is appropriate for my child,’” she says. “The parent and I and the principal have a conversation, and we try to settle it at that level.”

In Dallas, the principal may offer a stu dent an alternative instructional resource to be used in place of the challenged resource. And some districts will make notes in a student’s circulation account that allow the librarian or aide to see a parent’s request when the child is checking out books.

HOW SHOULD YOU APPROACH

‘BANNED

BOOKS’ WITH YOUR KIDS?

Podmore agrees that some of the content in the most frequently challenged books is shocking or painful to read.

“If something doesn’t feel right, that’s the time when you have a conversation, and the conversation needs to be between the parent and child,” she says. “Absolutely, a parent can decide, this isn’t right for my child.”

But Podmore also says that reading a book is “the safest place” for children to experience things they might not otherwise see, hear, or feel.

Or, she says, a book could be the place where they finally feel seen.

“Maybe that reader no longer feels ashamed or alone,” she says. “Someone can read a book and say, ‘yes that happened to me.’”

If your child expresses an interest in a book that’s often challenged or banned, it could be a double opportunity for discussion. First, it can open a dialogue around topics that can sometimes be hard to broach, like sex, sexual ity, racism or mental illness. And second, you can talk about why some people might find it troubling. Ask them, what did people find so disturbing in a book that they wanted to ban it? This can help your kids define their own values and opinions of its content.

“This offers a great opportunity for parents to engage with their kids and have a conversation on the reasons why they should or should not read a certain book,” Robinson says. “The best thing a parent can do is be prepared to have these crucial conversations, share their own family values and answer their child’s questions.”

real moms.

RÉSUMÉ

CURRENT POSITION

Founder & CEO of afloat app AGE 37

HAILS FROM Kansas City LIVES IN Dallas & Kansas City

ALMA MATER SMU CHILDREN Sons Press, 9, Duke, 6, and Boss, 5

FUN FACT A former high-end event planner, Preston has planned weddings all across the country WHERE TO CONNECT @theafloatap p & @sarahallenpreston on Instagram

Changing the gifting game

SARAH-ALLEN PRESTON KNOWS DARK

TIMES. Her youngest son underwent open heart surgery as an infant, then a year later, she found herself in the midst of a divorce.

But the mom of three also knows the power of connection. She credits the support of family and friends during her life’s storms has her silver

lining—and ultimately the inspiration behind her mobile app, afloat.

Preston, who splits her time between Kansas City and Dallas, launched the on-demand gifting app in Dallas in February 2022. The app is a curated market place featuring gifts from over 30 stores in the Dallas community. From books and dolls from JoJo Mommy to cookies and cakeballs from J.Raes, the gifts are

PHOTO

➽

Sarah-Allen

Preston, afloat app founder.

moms

wrapped and delivered same- or next-day, along with a handwritten note.

Preston says the app is all about celebrat ing “silver confetti moments along with silver linings.” She plans to expand offerings in Dallas and move into other cities in Texas.

We talked to Preston about this season of giving, gifting, and what it’s like to be a single mom running a startup business.

DFWCHILD : YOU’RE THE FOUNDER OF A MOBILE APP BUT HAVE NO BACKGROUND IN TECH. SO HOW DID THE IDEA FOR AFLOAT COME ABOUT?

SARAH-ALLEN PRESTON: Boss, my now 5-year-old, had open heart surgery at 5 months old. It was a really trying and traumatic time for my family. And when I got through it, I looked back from the other side and was like, ‘OK, that sucked,’ for lack of a better term, but what is the silver lining I can take away from this? And it was how con nected I felt, how cared for I felt, because of all the things people did. It didn’t matter how big or small it was—home made salad dress ing or a Barefoot Dreams robe—the things that people would drop off helped me know that someone was there for me. It could completely change the trajec tory of my day.

When I wanted to say thank you for this silver lining, I was like, ‘why is it so hard to be thoughtful? Where is this happy space on your phone that you can really support and celebrate the people in your life easily?’

DFWCHILD : AND IT WAS IMPORTANT TO YOU TO INCORPORATE LOCAL BRICK-AND-MORTAR BUSINESSES?

SAP: Bringing in local stores was the cherry on top. I think people really relate with the idea of being able to go to a local store that they want to support, but in today’s reality, we’re so busy, you can’t always get there to do that. It just seems easier when you’re in the carpool line, scrolling on your phone, to order something from the metase arch, big box whatever. I knew there had to be a better way.

DFWCHILD : THE AFLOAT TEAM IS MADE UP ENTIRELY OF WOMEN, ALMOST ALL OF WHOM ARE MOMS. HOW DOES THIS SHAPE THE CULTURE?

SAP: When I became a mom is when I first had that drive in my gut of, ‘OK, I’m going to balance and I’m going to thrive.’ And some days are better than others, obvi ously. On our team, we juggle hard. We’re not all crushing every department of our life every day, but I will say working amongst women who have children has been a big level-up in what I am able to do with myself and my time. We all feel that and support each other. On the days that are good we’re crushing it. Then some days somebody needs a little more time or something comes up with their kid, and we’re all really under standing about that, too. It’s a really cool culture to be part of.

DFWCHILD : WE’RE ALL IN GIFTING MODE THIS SEASON. WHAT’S SOME ADVICE WHEN IT COMES TO GIFT-GIVING?

SAP: This is something that gives people real anxiety, right? You want to do a good job at gift ing. One thing I say is just send the gift. So many people, myself included, get tied up in ‘should I, shouldn’t I’? To me the answer is always yes. I’ve been on the receiving end, and I remember the people that I never thought would send a gift to me did in my darker moments. And it truly meant so much.

DFWCHILD : YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE BOYS. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A ‘BOY MOM’ AND WHAT KIND OF BOYS ARE YOU TRYING TO RAISE?

SAP: Being a boy mom—just keeping them alive! (laughs) I really want to raise boys that are appreciative, respectful and collaborative with the women in their life. Mine are so in tune with me, and so sensitive and emotionally intelligent, but we were not always on that track. I was in an abusive marriage and they were really my catalyst to leave. It was something I had known in my

gut for so long wasn’t right, but one day something happened that made me think, what am I doing? This is not just about me anymore. Not only do I not want them to think this is what life is like, and marriage is like, and what their childhood is going to be, but I also don’t want to raise men that are going to be like this. I don’t want to raise men that are going to grow up think ing this is how women should be treated or receive treatment. So I left, and we have really fostered an amazing relationship.

DFWCHILD: WHAT’S THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE BEING A MOM OF THREE?

SAP: The scheduling! How in the heck are you supposed to get three children to three different activities at the same time? I have amazing help and support across the board, and I still can’t figure it out. Every day it’s like putting a jigsaw puzzle together.

DFWCHILD : WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH MOTHERHOOD?

SAP: I’m not as strict as I thought I would be. I went in with all the highest hopes of ‘they eat this’ and ‘we follow these timelines and guidelines.’ All of the good intentions. But when you’re really in the game, you’re making a lot of gametime decisions.

DFWCHILD : WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR KIDS TAKE AWAY FROM SEE ING YOU BE AN ENTREPRENEUR?

SAP: They get to see me go to work. They get to see me with blood, sweat and tears. I’m really open with them about things like the process of being a founder, or being a single mom. All of these things that are not challenges, but challenging. I love that they are seeing me dig in. I’m trying to raise these boys that appreciate women, respect them, and they get to see firsthand what a strong woman can look like.

PHOTO

➽

ABOVE: Sarah-Allen Preston with her sons Press, Boss and Duke.

“I’M TRYING TO RAISE THESE BOYS THAT APPRECIATE WOMEN, RESPECT THEM, AND THEY GET TO SEE FIRSTHAND WHAT A STRONG WOMAN CAN LOOK LIKE.”

GIFT

Preston shares her best gifts and golden rules

GUIDE 3

LIFE LESSONS

2I think it’s so cool that my kids have watched me take something I talked about and turn it into something real They’ve gotten a lot of exposure to running a business and they ask questions, they’re engaged and proud. They’ve watched me have bad days and get up the next day and say ‘what’s next?’ I think those lessons are really invaluable.

TREAT YOURSELF

I’m pretty good at me-time. I try to find time to unplug every day, whether that’s a bath or laying on the floor while the kids do puzzles around me—or play on their iPad, let’s be real!

KEEP GOING KEEP GOING

MAKE IT MEANINGFUL

The key to choosing a great gift is to make it meaningful and personal, even if that’s just in the note that you send. Write that extra line that makes them feel cared for. That’s so simple and it really goes such a long way. Personal touches can make things meaningful even if the item isn’t.

Sarah-Allen

I’M REALLY PASSIONATE ABOUT KEEPING GOING. I SAY IN MY HEAD 25 TIMES A WEEK, ‘JUST KEEP GOING.’ IT GETS ME OUT WHATEVER MENTAL BLOCK I’M IN—WHETHER THAT’S WORK, OR PARENTHOOD, OR PERSONAL LIFE.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JASON KINDIG; SABRINA LEONE; ISTOCK

MOTTO TO LIVE BY

BEST GIFT EVER

STAYING BACK

What to consider before holding your child back a grade

WORDS GINA MAYFIELD

private schools

AS PARENTS, WE PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE in keeping our children on track aca demically. And recently, the Texas legislature gave parents an even stronger voice in their child’s early education. A law passed last year allows families to decide to hold back their children in pre-K through third grade.

Surprisingly, about one in 10 students across the country repeat at least one grade. Similarly, many parents elect to “redshirt” their kids, postponing kindergarten by a year to give them more time for socioemotional, intellectual or even physical growth.

But knowing that these early grades provide a strong foundation for both academic and social skills, there’s a lot to think about when making that decision. If you’re considering holding your child back, here are some things to keep in mind.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

If you’re considering redshirting a kindergartner, it’s often because you have a suspicion that something’s not quite right. So, what’s next?

“First, consider your child’s birth date,” says Ann DeVille, a cer tified teacher and therapeutic educational consultant with Student Solutions in Southlake. “Sometimes kids born later in the year are not as ready to start school. Maybe they’re on the hyperactive side, or they’re a little too shy to interact with other kids their age.” If they go to preschool or daycare, ask their teachers if they’re keeping up in class and able to follow simple directions.

With older students, there’s more to consider. “Of course, we’re always going to look at grades, but that doesn’t always give a clear picture,” says Brittany Lopez, a certified teacher and educational therapist with Brighter Futures in Arlington. “Ask about the big gest foundational skills in your child’s grade level and if your child grasps those concepts at all, because that’s what they’re going to be building on from year to year.”

Also take note of what you’re seeing at home: How’s homework going? What’s the frustration level? How’s your child’s self-esteem?

Before making any big decisions, meet with your child’s teacher and school administrators to discuss your options. Consider a transitional or extension program for kids that aren’t quite ready for kindergarten. “Look at a summer program, some reinforcement during the school year or extra tutoring over the summer for older kids,” DeVille says.

Also consider diagnostic testing such as a psychoeducational evaluation to detect potential underlying issues. “Sometimes they’re

offered at school, sometimes parents go to a private psychologist because schools don’t always catch learning disabilities,” DeVille says. “It’s a way for parents to get more concrete data.”

Lopez agrees. “Sometimes the problem’s just a specific teacher, in a specific environment that’s not a good fit,” she says.

THE PROS AND CONS

In years past, research focused on the potential pitfalls of grade retention, such as fitting in with younger classmates now and in the future and the perceived stigma attached to being a year behind. But new studies focus on something different: holding back kids who don’t meet academic standards gives them an advantage in academic achievement.

“Holding back a child can really give them the foundational skills they need,” Lopez says. “School’s going to be a lot easier going forward. If you don’t step in and say, ‘Let’s slow down a little bit,’ school might always be difficult.” DeVille agrees. “It snowballs un less there’s some interventions put into place.”

That’s true beyond academics. “If your child is not quite aca demically ready to sit still or maintain focus for extended periods or socially ready to connect with other peers, it could give them an edge ahead,” DeVille says. “Your kid has a little bit more maturity, experience, self-control, ability to focus.”

But she cautions parents about the socioemotional pitfalls. “I don’t think it’s always the best idea to hold older kids back, unless you’re moving from one school to another,” she says. “That makes it a little easier because there’s no pre-existing peer group to tease them. Even in kindergarten, kids start making relationships and friendships, and if they get held back it’s like a cloud that follows them.” Plus, if an older child has already been through that grade level, there’s a chance they can get bored and distracted easily, con sidering they’ve already learned the material.

“To me, it’s a real balancing act,” Lopez says. “Is the child’s self-esteem going to be more hurt by knowing they’re being held back and separated from friendships they’ve made or are they really just being ‘held back’ from constantly struggling and not feeling capable? We need to look at the mental and emotional aspects for the child and ask which one will affect them more.”

If you do decide to hold back your child, look on the bright side. “Be mindful of how you frame that decision as a parent and how teach ers, principals or school administrators do, too,” DeVille says. “Say to your child, ‘This is your chance to get ahead. You have done all this. Maybe this time you can help other kids too. This is a fresh start.’”

PRIVATE PRIVATE

CITY SCHOOL ADDRESS WEBSITE

Addison Greenhill School

4141 Spring Valley Road greenhill.org

Addison Trinity Christian Academy 17001 Addison Road trinitychristian.org

Allen Guthrie School, The 598 Old Cluster Road guthrieschool.com

Allen Inspired Learning Academy 601 S. Greenville Ave. inspiredlearningacademy.org

Argyle Selwyn School 2270 Copper Canyon Road selwynschool.org

Arlington Burton Adventist Academy 4611 Kelly Elliott Road burtonacademy.org

Arlington Children’s University 4621 Park Springs Blvd. childrensuniversity.com

Arlington Grace Preparatory Academy 3300 W. I-20 graceprep.org

Arlington Green Oaks School 500 Houston St. greenoaksinc.org

Arlington Merryhill School 711 West Arbrook Blvd. merryhillschool.com

Arlington Montessori Academy of Arlington, The 3428 W. Arkansas Lane tmaonline.org

Arlington Northstar School 4620 Park Springs Blvd. northstarschool.net

Arlington Oakridge School, The 5900 West Pioneer Parkway theoakridgeschool.org

Arlington Pantego Christian Academy 2201 West Park Row pantego.com

Arlington Park Row Christian Academy 915 W. Park Row parkrowchristian.net

Arlington St. Joseph Catholic School 2015 SW Green Oaks Blvd. stjosephtx.org

Arlington St. Maria Goretti Catholic School 1200 S. Davis Drive smgschool.org

Arlington St. Paul’s Preparatory Academy 6900 U.S. Highway 287 stpaulsprep.com

Azle Azle Christian School 1801 S. Stewart St. azlechristianschool.org

Bedford MidCities Montessori 209 Harwood Road, Ste. B midcitiesmontessori.com

Burleson Holy Cross Christian Academy 1233 Tarver Road hccaburleson.com

Carrollton Prince of Peace Christian School & Early Learning Center 4004 Midway Road popcs.org

Carrollton St. Anthony School, The 2040 N. Denton Drive thestanthonyschool.com

Colleyville Covenant Christian Academy 901 Cheek Sparger Road covenantchristian.net

Colleyville Crown of Life Lutheran School 6605 Pleasant Run Road colschool.org

Colleyville Inspire Academy 55 Main St., Ste. 280 inspireacademytx.com

Colleyville Waypoint Montessori 1513 Hall Johnson Road waypointmontessori.org

Crowley Nazarene Christian Academy 2001 E. Main St. nazarenechristianacademy.org

Dallas Acton Academy Lakewood 2443 Abrams Road actonlakewood.org

Dallas Akiba Yavneh Academy 12324 Merit Drive akibayavneh.org

Dallas Alcuin School 6144 Churchill Way alcuinschool.org

Dallas All Saints Catholic School 7777 Osage Plaza Parkway allsaintsdallas.org/school

Dallas Ann & Nate Levine Academy & Weinreb Early Childhood 18011 Hillcrest Road levineacademy.org

Dallas Bishop Dunne Catholic School 3900 Rugged Drive bdcs.org

Dallas Bishop Lynch High School 9750 Ferguson Road bishoplynch.org

Dallas Calvary Lutheran School 9807 Church Road calvarydallas.org/school

Dallas Cambridge School of Dallas, The 9330 N. Central Expressway cambridgedallas.org

Dallas Campbell Christian Academy 6623 Villa Road campbellchristianacademy.com

Dallas Choices Leadership Academy 18106 Marsh Lane choicesleadership.org

Dallas Christ the King Catholic School 4100 Colgate Ave. cks.org

Dallas Coram Deo Academy, Dallas Campus 6930 Alpha Road cdalions.org

Dallas Covenant School, The 7300 Valley View Lane covenantdallas.com

Dallas Dallas Academy 950 Tiffany Way dallas-academy.com

Dallas Dallas Christian Academy 4025 N. Central Expressway dallaschristianacademy.org

Dallas Dallas International School 17811 Waterview Parkway dallasinternationalschool.org

Dallas Dallas Lutheran School 8494 Stults Road dallaslutheranschool.com

Dallas Episcopal School of Dallas, The 4100 Merrell Road esdallas.org

Dallas Fairhill School 16150 Preston Road fairhill.org

SCHOOL SCHOOL

FOUNDED RELIGIOUSAFFILIATION

GRADESOFFERED TOTALENROLLMENT ANNUALTUITION FINANCIAL AID SCHOLARSHIPS UNIFORM

1950 None Pre-K–12 1,348 No $29,030–$36,240 Yes No 1970 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 1,471 Yes $10,620–$27,830 Yes Yes 2014 None Preschool–5 130 Yes $14,800–$19,300 Yes No 2017 None 5–12 30 No $9,470 No Yes 1957 None Pre-K–12 120 Yes $12,650–$29,100 Yes Yes 1911 Adventist Preschool–12 265 Yes $4,500–$8,500 Yes Yes 1995 None Preschool–6 200 Yes $6,000–$15,000 No Yes 1992 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 506 Yes $8,400 Yes No 2000 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 34 No $12,000 Yes No 1949 None Preschool–7 253 Yes $12,000 No Yes 1981 None Preschool–6 192 No $9,100–$16,140 Yes No 2005 None 7–12 34 Yes $17,400 No Yes 1979 None Preschool–12 700 Yes $9,520–$26,680 Yes No 1963 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 615 Yes $10,000–$16,525 Yes Yes 1968 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–6 270 Yes $3,000–$7,900 Yes Yes 1995 Catholic Pre-K–8 321 Yes $3,137–$10,004 Yes No 1954 Catholic Pre-K–8 176 Yes $6,130–$9,670 Yes No 1988 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 262 Yes $9,550–$12,800 No Yes 2003 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 177 Yes $5,700 No No 2015 None Pre-K–12 42 No $11,000 No No 1993 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–9 240 Yes $3,750–$10,500 Yes No 1980 Lutheran Preschool–12 650 Yes $12,400–$20,300 Yes No 1998 None 3–12 80 Yes $24,000 Yes Yes 1979 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 600 Yes $5,280–$19,544 Yes No 1995 Lutheran Preschool–8 150 Yes $1,575–$11,000 Yes No 2018 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 100 Yes $16,000 Yes Yes 1971 None Preschool–8 125 No $12,500–$17,500 Yes No 1984 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 255 Yes $7,620–$9,760 Yes No 2019 None Pre-K–6 48 No $11,803 No No 1962 Jewish Preschool–12 450 Yes $15,000–$30,000 Yes Yes 1964 None Preschool–12 570 No $30,000 Yes Yes 1998 Catholic Pre-K–8 320 Yes $9,300 Yes Yes 1979 Jewish Preschool–8 425 Yes $7,050–$30,430 Yes Yes 1961 Catholic 6–12 420 Yes $17,000 Yes Yes 1963 Catholic 9–12 1,003 Yes $19,700 Yes Yes 1972 Lutheran Preschool–8 101 Yes $7,100 Yes No 2002 Christian – Nondenominational 5–12 107 Yes $21,340–$25,300 Yes Yes 1984 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–6 34 Yes $7,500 No No 2005 None K–5 100 Yes $5,000 No Yes 1947 Catholic Pre-K–8 457 Yes $10,305–$14,353 Yes No 2006 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 390 Yes $6,000–$15,000 Yes No 1993 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 713 Yes $8,980–$23,450 Yes No 1965 None 1–12 170 Yes $18,000–$26,000 Yes No 1957 Adventist Pre-K–12 116 Yes $4,800–$6,200 No Yes 1991 None Pre-K–12 625 Yes $20,000–$26,000 Yes No 1974 Lutheran 7–12 161 Yes $15,000 Yes Yes 1974 Episcopal Preschool–12 1,172 Yes $25,320–$35,410 Yes No 1971 None 1–12 130 Yes $23,300–$23,900 Yes No

CITY SCHOOL ADDRESS WEBSITE

Dallas First Baptist Academy 7898 Sameull Blvd. fbacademy.com

Dallas Fusion Academy Dallas 8128 Park Lane, Ste. 125 fusionacademy.com

Dallas German International School of Dallas 12411 Templeton Trail german-isd.com

Dallas Good Shepherd Episcopal School 11110 Midway Road gsesdallas.org

Dallas Grace Academy of Dallas 11306A Inwood Road graceacademy.com

Dallas Highlander School 9120 Plano Road highlanderschool.com

Dallas Hillier School, The 3821 University Blvd. hillierschool.org

Dallas Hockaday School, The 11600 Welch Road hockaday.org

Dallas Holy Trinity Catholic School 3815 Oak Lawn Ave. htcsdallas.org

Dallas Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas 12345 Inwood Road jesuitdallas.org

Dallas Kessler School, The 1215 Turner Ave. www.thekesslerschool.com

Dallas Kingdom Collegiate Academies 1821 W. Camps Wisdom Road kcacademies.org

Dallas Lakehill Preparatory School 2720 Hillside Drive lakehillprep.org

Dallas Lamplighter School, The 11611 Inwood Road thelamplighterschool.org

Dallas Mount St. Michael Catholic School 4500 W. Davis St. msmcatholic.org

Dallas New Life Christian Academy 2626 Gus Thomasson Road newlifechristianacademy.net

Dallas Notre Dame School of Dallas 2018 Allen St. notredameschool.org

Dallas Oak Hill Academy 9407 Midway Road oakhillacademy.org

Dallas Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School 7625 Cortland Ave. olphschooldallas.org

Dallas Our Redeemer Lutheran School 7611 Park Lane ordallas.org

Dallas Parish Episcopal School 4101 Sigma Road parish.org

Dallas Preston Hollow Presbyterian School 9800 Preston Road phps.org

Dallas Providence Christian School of Texas 5002 West Lovers Lane pcstx.org

Dallas Santa Clara of Assisi Catholic Academy 321 Calumet Ave. santaclaraacademy.org

Dallas Scofield Christian School 7730 Abrams Road scofieldchristianschool.org

Dallas Shelton School 17301 Preston Road shelton.org

Dallas Southwest Adventist Junior Academy 1600 Bonnie View Road swaja.org

Dallas St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic School 1420 Old Gate Lane stbernardccs.org

Dallas St. Cecilia School 635 Mary Cliff Road stceciliacatholic.org

Dallas St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School 4019 S. Hampton Road saintspride.com

Dallas St. John’s Episcopal School 848 Harter Road stjohnsschool.org

Dallas St. Mark’s School of Texas 10600 Preston Road smtexas.org

Dallas St. Mary of Carmel Catholic School 1716 Singleton Blvd. smcschool.org

Dallas St. Monica Catholic School 4140 Walnut Hill Lane stmonicaschool.org

Dallas St. Philip’s School & Community Center 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. stphilips1600.org

Dallas St. Pius X Catholic School 3030 Gus Thomasson Road spxdallasschool.org

Dallas St. Rita Catholic School 12525 Inwood Road www.strita.net

Dallas St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School 3741 Abrams Road staschool.org

Dallas St. Timothy School, The 4333 Cole Ave. thesainttimothyschool.org

Dallas Torah Day School of Dallas 6921 Frankford Road tdsd.org

Dallas Ursuline Academy of Dallas 4900 Walnut Hill Lane ursulinedallas.org

Dallas Vanguard Preparatory School 4240 Sigma Road vanguardprepschool.com

Dallas Wesley Prep 9200 Inwood Road wesleyprep.org

Dallas Westwood School, The 14340 Proton Road westwoodschool.org

Dallas White Rock Montessori 1601 Oates Drive whiterockmontessori.org

Dallas White Rock North School 9727 White Rock Trail whiterocknorthschool.com

Dallas Winston School, The 5707 Royal Lane winston-school.org

Dallas Zion Lutheran School 6121 E. Lovers Lane zlsdallas.org

Dalworthington Gardens Flint Academy 2100 Roosevelt Drive flintacademy.com

FOUNDED RELIGIOUSAFFILIATION

GRADESOFFERED TOTALENROLLMENT ANNUALTUITION FINANCIAL AID SCHOLARSHIPS UNIFORM

Pre-K–12 385 Yes $10,650–$14,650 Yes No 2014 None 6–12 90 No $30,000–$60,000 No Yes 2010 None Preschool–5 113 No $8,000–$12,000 No No 1959 Episcopal Pre-K–8 585 Yes $24,770 Yes Yes 1974 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–6 215 Yes $6,000–$13,000 Yes No 1966 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–6 125 Yes $3,390–$11,180 No No 1968 Presbyterian 1–8 37 Yes $16,100 Yes Yes 1913 None Pre-K–12 1,112 Yes $29,890–$35,465 Yes No 1914 Catholic Preschool–8 135 Yes $7,800 Yes Yes 1942 Catholic 9–12 1,141 Yes $22,650 Yes Yes 1999 None Preschool–8 130 Yes $12,000–$19,000 Yes Yes 1984 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 527 Yes $6,750–$13,500 Yes Yes 1971 None K–12 418 No $13,750–$26,600 Yes No 1953 None Pre-K–4 470 No $16,095–$28,916 Yes No 1981 Catholic Preschool–8 140 Yes $7,900 Yes Yes

1972 Baptist

1983 Baptist

Pre-K–12 33 Yes $4,080 No No 1963 Catholic K–12 150 Yes $11,000–$12,000 Yes No 1987 None Preschool–12 135 Yes $19,150–$27,050 Yes Yes 1946 Catholic Pre-K–8 156 Yes $4,500 Yes No 1960 Lutheran Preschool–6 235 Yes $4,200–$13,400 Yes Yes 1972 Episcopal Pre-K 1,180 Yes $12,800–$34,600 Yes No 1962 Presbyterian K–6 136 Yes $22,500–$23,300 Yes No 1989 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–8 450 Yes $15,250 Yes Yes 1995 Catholic Preschool–8 123 Yes $5,495 Yes No 1961 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–6 291 Yes $2,960–$12,317 Yes No 1976 None Preschool–12 1,062 Yes $18,500–$35,600 Yes Yes 1929 Adventist

Pre-K–8 28 Yes $4,250–$5,250 Yes Yes 1948 Catholic Preschool–8 150 Yes $6,000–$8,000 Yes Yes 1935 Catholic Preschool–8 167 Yes $5,925 Yes Yes 1958 Catholic Pre-K–8 194 Yes $6,895–$7,995 Yes No 1953 Episcopal Preschool–8 500 Yes $14,500–$21,000 Yes No 1906 Episcopal 1–12 911 Yes $28,600–$36,500 Yes No 1944 Catholic Pre-K–8 165 Yes $5,450 Yes Yes 1954 Catholic Preschool–8 765 Yes $8,600-$13,000 Yes Yes 1946 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–8 264 Yes $10,054–$11,500 Yes No 1955 Catholic Pre-K–8 173 Yes $6,995 Yes No 1964 Catholic Pre-K–8 780 Yes $9,000–$14,300 Yes No 1947 Catholic Pre-K–8 866 Yes $11,650 No Yes 2008 Anglican Pre-K–12 51 Yes $6,950–$10,500 Yes Yes

2002 Orthodox Jewish Preschool–8 405 Yes $7,499–$16,499 Yes Yes 1874 Catholic 9–12 860+ Yes $25,900 Yes Yes 1993 None Pre-K–12 115 No $24,200–$26,400 Yes Yes 1968 Methodist Preschool–6 434 Yes $5,750–$15,730 Yes Yes 1986 None Preschool–12 300 Yes $20,000 Yes Yes 1975 None Preschool–8 175 No $13,000–$18,000 Yes No 1964 None Preschool–6 180 Yes $17,000–$12,000 Yes Yes

1975 None K–12 150 Yes $25,000–$35,000 Yes No

1879 Lutheran Preschool–8 270 Yes $7,000–$12,000 Yes Yes 2006 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 106 No $5,000–$17,000 Yes No

CITY SCHOOL ADDRESS WEBSITE

Denton Denton Calvary Academy

1910 E. University Drive dentoncalvary.org

Denton Koan School 6441 Fishtrap Road koanschool.org

DeSoto DeSoto Private School 301 E. Beltline Road desotoprivate.org

Fairview North Texas Performing Arts Academy 302 Town Place ntpa.org/academy

Farmers Branch Mary Immaculate Catholic School 14032 Dennis Lane mischool.org

Flower Mound Coram Deo Academy, Flower Mound Campus 4900 Wichita Trail cdalions.org

Flower Mound Grace Christian Academy 3200 Firewheel Drive gcapatriots.org

Flower Mound Temple Christian Academy 2501 Northshore Blvd. templechristian.com

Fort Worth All Saints’ Episcopal School 9700 Saints Circle aseschool.org

Fort Worth Alliance Christian Academy & Little Sprouts Preschool 13105 Harmon Road acaknights.com

Fort Worth Anderson Private School for the Gifted, Talented & Creative ** 14900 White Settlement Road andersonschool.net

Fort Worth Bethesda Christian School 4700 N. Beach St. bethesdachristianschool.org

Fort Worth Cassata Catholic High School 1400 Hemphill St. cassatahs.org

Fort Worth Christian Cottage Prep 1140 Morrison Drive christiancottageprep.com

Fort Worth Covenant Classical School 1701 Wind Star Way covenantfw.org

Fort Worth Crossroads Christian Academy 5817 Waddell St. crossroadsftworth.org

Fort Worth Fort Worth Academy 7301 Dutch Branch Road fwacademy.org

Fort Worth Fort Worth Adventist Junior Academy 3040 Sycamore School Road fwaja.org

Fort Worth Fort Worth Country Day 4200 Country Day Lane fwcd.org

Fort Worth Hill School of Fort Worth 4817 Odessa Ave. hillschool.org

Fort Worth Holy Family Catholic School 6146 Pershing Ave. hfcsfw.org

Fort Worth Jane Justin School 1300 W. Lancaster Ave. childstudycenter.org

Fort Worth Key School 7950 John T. White Road kcld.org

Fort Worth Lake Country Christian School 7050 Lake Country Drive lccs.org

Fort Worth Montessori School of Fort Worth 3420 Clayton Road East msftw.org

Fort Worth Mosaic Academy 1400 College Ave. mosaicacademy.org

Fort Worth Nolan Catholic High School 4501 Bridge St. nolancatholic.org

Fort Worth Southwest Christian School 6801 Dan Danciger Road southwestchristian.org

Fort Worth St. Andrew Catholic School 3304 Dryden Road standrewsch.org

Fort Worth St. George Catholic School 824 Hudgins Ave. stgeorgecatholicschool.org

Fort Worth St. Paul Lutheran School 1800 W. Freeway stpauleagles.org

Fort Worth St. Peter’s Classical School 7601 Bellaire Drive S. stpetersclassical.org

Fort Worth St. Rita Catholic School 712 Weiler Blvd. saintritaschool.net

Fort Worth Temple Christian School 6824 Randol Mill Road tcseagles.org

Fort Worth Texas Christian University Starpoint School 2805 Stadium Drive starpoint.tcu.edu

Fort Worth Trinity Valley School 7500 Dutch Branch Road tvs.org

Frisco Acton Academy Frisco 7110 Elm St. actonacademyfrisco.com

Frisco Frisco Montessori Academy 8890 Meadow Hill Drive friscomontessori.com

Frisco Legacy Christian Academy 5000 Academy Drive legacyca.com

Frisco Starwood Academy of Frisco 3443 Lebanon Road starwoodschools.com

Garland Brighter Horizons Academy 3145 Medical Plaza Drive bhaprep.org

Garland Firewheel Christian Academy 5500 Lavon Drive firewheelca.org

Garland Garland Christian Academy 1520 Lavon Drive garlandchristian.com

Garland Good Shepherd Catholic School 214 S. Garland Ave. goodshepherdcatholicschool.org

Granbury Grace Classical Christian Academy 1851 Weatherford Highway graceclassical.com

Grand Prairie Immaculate Conception School 400 NE 17th St. school.icgrandprairie.org

Grapevine Grapevine Faith Christian School 730 E. Worth St. grapevinefaith.com

Grapevine Holy Trinity Catholic School 3750 William D Tate Ave. holytcs.org

FOUNDED RELIGIOUSAFFILIATION

GRADESOFFERED TOTALENROLLMENT ANNUALTUITION FINANCIAL AID SCHOLARSHIPS UNIFORM

1999 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 260 Yes $7,000–$10,000 No No 2013 None Pre-K–12 100 No $8,250–10,700 No Yes 1972 None Preschool–6 300 Yes $5,580 No No 2018 None 6–12 80 No $5,400–$7,800 Yes Yes 1959 Catholic Pre-K–8 438 Yes $7,410–$11,300 Yes No 1999 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 760 Yes $6,000–$15,000 Yes No 1975 Baptist Pre-K–12 99 Yes $5,500 No No 1980 Baptist K–12 115 Yes $6,410 No Yes 1951 Episcopal Preschool–12 1,190 Yes $5,600–$25,420 Yes Yes 2004 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 160 Yes $5,000–$8,000 No No 1995 None K–12 21 Yes $10,990–$15,990 Yes Yes 1980 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 550 Yes $11,000 Yes No 1975 Catholic 9–12 90 Yes $8,100 Yes Yes 2001 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 50 No $9,975 Yes Yes 1999 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 470 Yes $13,520–$17,495 Yes No 2004 None 7–12 52 No $2,100 No No 1982 None K–8 183 Yes $20,800–$23,423 Yes No 1996 Seventh Day Adventist Preschool–8 58 Yes $4,300 Yes Yes 1963 None Pre-K–12 1,089 Yes $11,600–$27,430 Yes Yes 1973 None K–12 120 Yes $19,350–$22,990 Yes Yes 1945 Catholic Pre-K–8 108 Yes $8,100–$8,800 Yes Yes 1962 None Pre-K–12 85 Yes $17,500–$19,500 Yes Yes 1966 None K–12 100 Yes $22,250 Yes Yes 1980 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 485 Yes $5,000–$14,500 Yes No 1968 None Preschool–8 200 No $6,000–$15,000 Yes Yes 2000 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–8 80 No $4,500 Yes Yes 1961 Catholic 9–12 694 Yes $18,890 Yes No 1969 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 981 Yes $5,250–$21,850 Yes No 1954 Catholic Preschool–8 630 Yes $7,500 Yes No 1951 Catholic Pre-K–8 115 Yes $5,800 Yes Yes 1969 Lutheran Pre-K–8 192 Yes $6,100–$11,750 Yes Yes 2005 Christian Orthodox Preschool–12 96 Yes $5,080–$11,800 Yes No 1954 Catholic Pre-K–8 135 Yes $6,500–$6,950 Yes Yes 1972 Baptist Pre-K–12 400 Yes $7,600–$9,670 Yes Yes 1966 Disciples of Christ 1–6 60 Yes $17,000 Yes Yes 1959 None Pre-K–12 1,002 Yes $13,250–$25,800 Yes No 2021 None Pre-K–5 19 No $9,000 No No 1998 None Preschool–8 183 Yes $7,760–$11,155 No No 1999 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 1,305 Yes $12,600–21,600 Yes No 2000 None Preschool–8 318 Yes $12,200–$18,500 No No 1989 Islamic Pre-K–12 800 Yes $7,622 Yes No

1981 Assemblies of God Preschool–6 175 Yes $7,000 No No 1972 Baptist Pre-K–12 325 Yes $10,000–$18,000 Yes Yes 1954 Catholic Pre-K–8 220 Yes $6,800 Yes Yes 2012 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 105 Yes $3,400–$8,135 Yes Yes 1952 Catholic Pre-K–8 140 Yes $6,700 Yes Yes 1999 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 873 Yes $10,100–$19,250 Yes No 1994 Catholic Pre-K–8 285 Yes $9,410 Yes No

CITY SCHOOL ADDRESS WEBSITE

Grapevine Novus Academy, The 3400 William D. Tate Ave., Ste. 1000 thenovusacademy.org

Grapevine Southlake Montessori 1105 W. Wall St. southlakemontessori.org

Haslet Legacy Classical Christian Academy 12501 U.S. Highway 287 legacyclassical.org

Irving Cistercian Preparatory School 3660 Cistercian Road cistercian.org/school

Irving Highlands School, The 1451 E. Northgate Drive thehighlandsschool.org

Irving Holy Family Catholic Academy 2323 Cheyenne St. hfca-irving.org

Irving Humanist Academy, The 4441 Airport Freeway thehumanistacademy.org

Irving Islamic School of Irving 2555 Esters Road islamicschoolofirving.org

Irving Redeemer Montessori School 2700 Warren Circle redeemermontessori.org

Irving Sloan School, The 3131 N. O’Connor Road thesloanschool.com

Irving St. Francis Montessori 545 Iris Drive stfrancisirving.org

Irving StoneGate Christian Academy 1705 Esters Road sgca.net

Keller DFW Performing Arts Conservatory 5700 Kroger Drive dfwpac.com

Keller Harvest Christian Academy 225 Keller Parkway hcasaints.org

Keller Messiah Lutheran Classical Academy 1308 Whitley Road mlcatexas.org

Keller St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School 2016 Willis Lane seton.school

Keller Trinity Preparatory Academy 12657 N. Caylor Road trinityprepkeller.org

Kennedale Fellowship Academy 1021 N. Bowman Springs Road www.fellowship-academy.org

Lewisville Coram Deo Academy 417 Oakbend Drive coramdeoacademy.org

Lewisville Explorations Preparatory School 2160 S. Edmonds Lane explorationsprep.org

Lewisville Lakeland Christian Academy 397 S. Stemmons Freeway lakelandchristian.org

Lucas Lucas Christian Academy 505 W. Lucas Road lucaschristianacademy.com

Mansfield School of Lexia 1200 Clover Hill Road schooloflexia.org

McKinney Cornerstone Christian Academy 808 S. College St. ccawarriors.com

McKinney McKinney Christian Academy 3601 Bois D’Arc Road mckinneychristian.org

Mesquite Dallas Christian School 1515 Republic Parkway dallaschristian.com

N. Richland Hills Fort Worth Christian School 6200 Holiday Lane fwc.org

Plano Conservatory at North Texas Performing Arts Academy, The 6121 W. Park Blvd. B216 ntpa.org/conservatory

Plano Coram Deo Academy, Collin County Campus 9645 Independence Parkway cdalions.org

Plano Faith Lutheran School 1701 E. Park Blvd. flsplano.org

Plano Fusion Academy Plano 2400 Dallas Parkway, Ste. 180 fusionacademy.com

Plano Great Lakes Academy 6000 Custer Road, Bldg. 7 greatlakesacademy.com

Plano John Paul II High School 900 Coit Road johnpauliihs.org

Plano New Hope Christian Academy 5170 Village Creek Drive explorenewhope.org

Plano Pebblecreek Montessori 8104 Coit Road pebblecreekmontessori.com

Plano Prestonwood Christian Academy Plano 6801 W. Park Blvd. prestonwoodchristian.org

Plano Prince of Peace Catholic School 5100 W. Plano Parkway popschool.net

Plano Spring Creek Academy 6000 Custer Road, Bldg 5 springcreekacademy.com

Plano St. Mark Catholic School 1201 Alma Drive stmcs.net

Plano St. Timothy Christian Academy 6801 W. Park Blvd. staplano.org

Prosper Prestonwood Christian Academy North 1001 W. Prosper Trail prestonwoodchristian.org

Prosper St. Martin de Porres Catholic School 4000 W. University Drive smdpcatholic.org

Richardson Bridge Builder Academy 1221 W. Campbell Road, Ste. 209 bridgebuilderacademy.com

Richardson North Dallas Adventist Academy 2800 Custer Parkway ndaacademy.org

Richardson St. Joseph Catholic School 600 S. Jupiter Road sjcstx.net

Richardson St. Paul Catholic Classical School 720 S. Floyd Road spsdfw.org

Roanoke E.A. Young Academy 608 Henrietta Creek Road eayoungacademy.com

Southlake Clariden School, The 100 Clariden Ranch Road claridenschool.org

Southlake Fusion Academy Southlake 301 State St., Ste. 200 fusionacademy.com

FOUNDED RELIGIOUSAFFILIATION

GRADESOFFERED TOTALENROLLMENT ANNUALTUITION FINANCIAL AID SCHOLARSHIPS UNIFORM

2014 None K–12 43 Yes $19,650–$20,850 Yes Yes 2014 None Preschool–6 34 No $11,276-$15,950 Yes No

2010 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 108 Yes $6,000 No No 1962 Catholic 5–12 357 Yes $21,500–$23,700 Yes No 1986 Catholic Pre-K–12 352 Yes $10,900–$16,250 Yes Yes 1965 Catholic Pre-K–8 135 Yes $6,320 Yes No 2014 None K–12 80 No $7,800 No No 1996 Islamic Preschool–12 854 Yes $6,000 Yes Yes 1978 Episcopal Preschool–6 165 Yes $9,350–$8,950 Yes Yes 1990 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–5 125 Yes $990–$11,600 No No 2009 Catholic Preschool–6 141 No $4,000–$5,500 Yes No

1976 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 100 Yes $7,100–$8,800 Yes Yes 2009 Christian – Nondenominational 4–12 25 No $15,000 No Yes 1993 Baptist K–12 425 Yes $11,000–$14,000 Yes Yes 2000 Lutheran Preschool–8 90 Yes $5,830–$9,195 Yes No 2000 Catholic Pre-K–8 586 Yes $8,810–$7,540 Yes Yes 2008 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 375 Yes $4,300–$5,100 Yes No 2000 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 380 No $8,500–$10,500 Yes Yes 1998 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 1,700 Yes $15,000 Yes Yes 2002 None Pre-K–7 70 Yes $11,900–$14,900 Yes No 1992 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–10 270 Yes $4,300–$7,500 Yes Yes 2000 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 425 Yes $2,815.00–$5,515 Yes No 2020 None 1–7 34 Yes $5,000–$18,500 Yes No 2004 Christian – Nondenominational K–12 404 Yes $6,450–$8,560 No No 1992 None Pre-K–12 670 Yes $7,625–$15,750 Yes No 1957 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 500 Yes $5,000–$20,000 Yes No 1958 Christian – Nondenominational Preschool–12 600 Yes $13,000–$18,000 Yes No 2018 None 6–12 80 No $5,400–$7,800 No Yes 2004 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–12 567 Yes $6,000–$10,000 Yes No 1971 Lutheran Preschool–12 150 Yes $4,000–$11,000 Yes Yes 2014 None 6–12 90 No $30,000–$60,000 No Yes 1996 None 4–6 120 Yes $18,800–$20,800 No No 2005 Catholic 9–12 710 Yes $20,500 Yes Yes 2017 Christian – Nondenominational Pre-K–10 86 Yes $9,945–$12,250 Yes Yes 2002 None Preschool–6 150 No $10,500–$12,250 No No 1997 Baptist Pre-K–12 1,747 Yes $6,867–$24,486 Yes No 1991 Catholic Preschool–8 770 Yes $8,815–$12,160 Yes No 1996 None 2–12 130 Yes $10,000–$12,000 No No 1982 Catholic Preschool–8 510 Yes $8,940 Yes No

2006 Baptist K–12 40 Yes $23,000 Yes No 2014 Baptist Pre-K–12 560 Yes $6,867–$20,486 Yes No

2012 Catholic Pre-K–8 285 Yes $7,500–$8,850 Yes No

2006 None K–12 40 No $35,000–$45,000 No No

1984 Adventist Pre-K–12 225 Yes $6,000–$10,000 Yes No

2002 Catholic Pre-K–8 290 Yes $8,000–$9,000 Yes No

1957 Catholic Pre-K–8 131 Yes $8,100–$9,400 Yes Yes

2011 None K–12 95 Yes $17,850–$18,300 No No

1996 None Preschool–12 150 No $12,500–$19,204 Yes No 2015 None 6–12 85 No $30,000–$60,000 No Yes

PROFILE School

Are you looking for a school that’s as passionate about your child’s education as you are? Get to know the institutions that excel in fostering a lifelong love of learning.

All Saints’ Episcopal School

All Saints’ Episcopal School is a leading college preparatory school in Fort Worth, Texas, serving students age 3 through grade 12. Our Episcopal Identity means that educating the whole person by developing discerning minds, healthy bodies and lively spirits. The pursuit of academic excellence is best realized when complemented by worship rooted in the Christian tradition, religious education, service and social responsibility, and within an inclusive community. All Saints’ 144-acre campus includes open space to grow and explore, as well as exceptional facilities like a state-of-the-art student Union, beautiful Chapel, Exploratorium and Tinkertorium.

At All Saints’, we pursue content mastery alongside character development. Our curriculum is continually evaluated to focus on the development and mastery of the values we believe contribute to the most successful graduate and human: Portrait of a Saint. Our seven Portrait of a Saint values are Guided by Integrity, Creative Problem Solver, Committed to Personal Growth, Empathetic Global Citizen, Faithful Community Member, Effective Communicator, and Valuable Collaborator. These values are built in the classroom, in Chapel, through service learning, advisory and in SEL lessons. Our faculty is evaluated with these same values to ensure they are growing and modeling what we teach. See

educational model blends the best of tradition and innovation by connecting with a member of our Admission team!

here: aseschool.org/fwchild 9700 Saints Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76108 817-560-5700 • admissions@aseschool.org aseschool.org/fwchild

Edna Rowe Montessori School

Edna Rowe Montessori School is one of Dallas ISD’s newest Transformation schools. It is a pre-K 3 through 5th grade Montessori school focused on nurturing independence, social harmony, and a love of learning.

At Edna Rowe, students are empowered to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens. Edna Rowe Elementary School is focused on preparing today’s students to become tomorrow’s leaders. The educational experience features imaginative classrooms to foster self-motivation, creativity, and collaborative learning opportunities.

Our goal is to ensure that when students leave us they are “future ready” and prepared to thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, multiliterate society. The educational experience at Edna Rowe features an opportunity for students to master two languages and to become familiar with and experience multiple cultures.

Applications to Transformation Schools are accepted annually, from November through January. Applications are available online at dallasisd.org/choosedallasisd Parents may also request support from the Office of Transformation and Innovation by emailing choice@dallasisd.org

Students are selected to attend via a computerized lottery weighted to achieve 50/50 socio-economic diversity. Research shows socio-economically diverse schools offer better learning environments for all students, no matter their background. Families are notified of acceptance in mid-March.

To learn more about this ‘bestfit’ school for independent thinkers and scholars who enjoy hands-on learning, visit Edna Rowe at dallasisd.org/rowe.

4918 Hovenkamp Drive, Dallas, TX 75227 972-749-8800 dallasisd.org/rowe

BASIS Benbrook

2023-24 open enrollment for BASIS Benbrook is happening now through December 15th!

Doesn’t your child deserve the best? BASIS Texas Charter School is the #1 ranked School District in Texas,* offering a world-class, tuition-free education for grades K–12. We’re currently accepting applications for the 2023–2024 school year! BASIS Benbrook opened in the Fort Worth area serving grades K–5 for the 2022–23 school year. BASIS Benbrook is now accepting applications for grades K-6 for the 2023–24 school year.

2022 Best U.S. High School Rankings

U.S. News & World Report

Charter High School in Texas #77 National High School #25 National STEM High School #3 STEM High School in Texas

Please visit enrollBASISTX.com for more information.

8901 Vista Way Benbrook, TX 76126 817-662-7080 enrollbasistx.com/basis-benbrook

The Covenant School

If you have children, you are already on an exciting adventure. You have been tasked with the most challenging responsibility known to humankind and, by God’s grace, you have made it this far. Well done!

At The Covenant School, we too are on an adventure. As a community of like-hearted families, we are on a journey of faith and learning together. Not only are our children learning—not only are our young adults growing in their faith—we are too!

Obviously, no single school can meet every family’s needs for educating their children. But if joy-filled school days, skills for success, lifelong learning, and connections to likehearted families with a common purpose are what you have been looking for, Covenant may be the school for you. So, as you research our Classical, Charlotte Mason-based program, and observe how we experience authentic Christian community together, we hope you might consider including the Covenant journey in your family’s life adventure.

Robert Littlejohn, Ph.D., is the Head of School at The Covenant School. Dr. Littlejohn has extensive experience in education and is the co-author of “Wisdom and Eloquence, A Christian Paradigm for Classical Learning.”

7300 Valley View Ln., Dallas, TX 75240 covenantdallas.com

Jennifer Peterson, Director of Admissions jpeterson@covenantdallas.com

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts (FWAFA) is a proven leader in education for Grades 3–12, consistently winning the college success award and ranking among the top schools, both in Texas and the nation. FWAFA meets state standards for academics, exceed standards for performing arts, and has a 100-percent graduation rate.

FWAFA provides tuition-free, high-quality instruction in the performing and visual arts, featuring training in Dance, Theatre, Choir, and Visual Art. Unique to FWAFA, the learning doesn’t happen just in the classroom. Students work with guest artists and perform in the community regularly—setting the stage for success!

Last year, FWAFA was nominated for 23 awards between the Betty Lynn Buckley Awards and Schmidt & Jones Awards—taking home a total of 11 awards including BEST PLAY for As You Like It and BEST MUSICAL for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

The benefits of arts education are endless. Come be part of the FWAFA Magic! Apply to audition during our Open Enrollment period, January 11–February 13 ArtsAcademics.org/apply.

3901 S. Hulen St. Fort Worth, TX 76109 817- 924-1482 ArtsAcademics.org

Grapevine Faith Christian School

Grapevine Faith exists to develop and graduate authentic Christian leaders. In partnership with Christian families, we educate children ranging from Pre-K through

Faith offers a unique educational opportunity for students through a challenging, Christ-centered, biblically based school program with excellence in academics,

We strive to infuse a biblical worldview in every aspect of the school experience, and encourage ministry and mission-mindedness to the local community and beyond.

Faith is co-educational, evangelical, and college-preparatory with selective Upcoming Open Houses: January 25 (All Grade Levels), February 21 (High School), February 28 (Elementary), and April 11 (All grapevinefaith.com/admissions for details and registration.

730 E. Worth Street, Grapevine, TX 76051 grapevinefaith.com

Life School

Experience our 4-Day School Week! School Monday–Thursday with Fridays off.

Life School is one of a few innovative districts in Texas that have implemented a 4-day school week! A 4-day school week helps boost student well-being and improves school-life balance, giving time back to families for errands, tutoring, or a much-needed mental break.

Our charter school district also achieved a score of 87 out of 100 on TEA accountability scores, and we were voted a top school district in DFW peoples’ choice awards.

When you join Life School, we become partners in your child’s success. This includes a strong focus on science, math, and literacy. Your child will learn to ask strong questions, plan experiments, collect data, analyze information, collaborate, and solve problems. Plus, we are known for our focus on growing leaders.

Request a free viewbook, schedule a visit, or apply online at lifeschool.net

132 East Ovilla Road, Suite A Red Oak, TX 75154

lifeschool.net

Parish Episcopal School

Setting its sights on its next half century, Parish Episcopal School remains steadfast in helping students find balance and joy in their educational journey, discover their authentic self, and have a great sense of belonging and engagement across all disciplines, PreK 3–12th grade. From signature programs exploring leadership, STEM, global studies and more, to social/emotional programs ensuring students’ needs are met, to premier facilities in STEM, athletics and arts, including the recently opened 55,000 sq.ft. Noble Family Performing Arts Center, the possibilities are infinite at Parish. And it doesn’t stop at the student—Parish’s inclusive Episcopal community embraces the whole family!

Parish values the partnership with its families and encourages parental involvement and fellowship among all Parish families. Parents are invited to explore areas of interest and get involved—join a booster club or event committee, mentor a student or class, attend a Community Dinner or speak at an event, attend a parent party or the annual Gala; commitments big or small, there’s something for everyone! These intentional family connections outside the classroom are a vital part of every student’s educational experience.

Join Michelle Lyon, Interim Allen Meyer Family Head of School, on February 1, 2023, at 9 a.m., to hear more about Parish and the possibilities that await your family. parish.org/admission for registration details.

972-852-8737 parishepiscopal.org

Hillcrest Campus PreK (3 yrs old)–2nd Grade 14115 Hillcrest Road Dallas, Texas 75254

Midway Campus 3rd–12th Grade 4101 Sigma Road Dallas, Texas 75244

Shelton School and Evaluation Center

Since 1976, people have recognized Shelton as the premier school and resource center for intelligent children who have a learning difference. It is the largest independent school worldwide for students with learning differences. Shelton empowers students through a customized approach within a mainstream environment. We work with the student and the family to create:

• Individualized action plans for intervention

• A curriculum that emphasizes academics and self-esteem

• A social skills curriculum that spans all grade levels

• A division-specific organizational and study skills program

• Self-advocacy skills

Shelton focuses on the student. In fact, we like to say that “we teach students, not subjects.” Our teachers are highly trained with specific expertise and experience in teaching students with learning differences. Of the 282 faculty and staff, more than half hold advanced degrees.

Shelton is also a national training center for educators, parents, physicians and psychologists. Shelton’s business entities include an evaluation center, a speech/language/ hearing center and an outreach/training program.

The new campus provides unparalleled academic and extracurricular opportunities for every student. Shelton students are changing the way the world thinks about learning differences. Shelton School is accredited by Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS).

Suzanne Stell, M.Ed., CALT Executive Director

17301 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75252

Admissions: 972-774-1772 Shelton.org

Southwest Christian School

Founded in 1969, Southwest Christian School has served students for more than half a century. SCS’s mission as a Christ-centered college preparatory school is to equip students academically and spiritually to be leaders in the world.

Academically Excellent

An atmosphere of scholarship starts at the top. That’s why more than 75 percent of our faculty and staff either hold or pursue advanced degrees in their content area. Academic opportunities for our students include honors, Dual Credit, and AP courses, all taught in small classroom settings that encourage discussion and one-on-one instruction.

Globally Minded

An important part of learning to be globally minded is looking beyond what is familiar and comfortable. Students at SCS develop a global perspective through exposure to world cultures, foreign languages, and, when possible, travel experiences.

Distinctively Christian

As an interdenominational school, our biblically integrated curriculum is taught by teachers who daily model faith and reinforce the values of home and church. By using a biblical worldview to form foundational understandings of responsible, proactive citizenship, we are preparing our students to be leaders in the world.

Schedule a visit to learn more about SCS by contacting us at admission@southwestchristian.org

Chisholm Trail Campus

southwestchristian.org

PreK–6th Grade 6801 Dan Danciger Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76133

Lakeside Campus

7th–12th Grade 6901 Altamesa Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76123

Texas School of the Arts

At Texas School of the Arts (TeSA), young minds in Grades K–5 are encouraged to learn and grow through stimulating academics in a creative atmosphere. Every student is immersed in structured rotations of Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Art and are presented with unique performance opportunities like this year’s Spring Musical, Frozen Jr

In addition to performances like musicals, concerts, and art shows, our students are encouraged to use creative movement like hopping, skipping, and spinning down the halls as they utilize our sensory hallways to transition between classes. Teachers and students are also frequently found singing between bites of their lunches and dancing through the carline at dismissal.

TeSA ranks among the top schools in Texas—currently ranked #7 Best Charter Elementary School in Dallas-Fort Worth Area on niche.com. TeSA uses campusdeveloped curriculum focused on STEAM and is guided by the National Core Arts Standards. Each academic discipline is aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and teachers are encouraged to collaborate for cross-curricular learning. Fine arts elements are integrated into academic classes, inspiring creative thinking, innovation, and collaboration in all subjects.

A tuition-free, public charter school, TeSA is open to any student interested in the arts! Think your child is the next TeSA Star? Apply to audition during our Open Enrollment period, January 11– February 13. More info at ArtsAcademics.org/apply.

6025 Village Pkwy. Edgecliff Village, TX 76134 817-732-8372 ArtsAcademics.org

Trinity Valley School

Trinity Valley School offers extraordinary learning opportunities to children from Pre-Kindergarten through graduation. The TVS mission emphasizes fine scholarship and a wide range of constructive interests that promote lasting values, providing students a foundation for academic, personal, and professional success. Skilled educators and coaches guide and support students, inspiring them with varied experiences from integrated technology to fine arts, athletics to entrepreneurial studies, and beyond.

The Global Education Program connects students with partner schools worldwide to promote cross-cultural understanding.

The Trojan Outdoor Experience Program engages students in environmental education and outdoor adventure. Our campus has four extraordinary areas for play, including our new Ninja Warrior course. Unstructured play provides outstanding social and emotional development, and after spending time outdoors, students perform better in the classroom.

The TVS athletic program enhances students’ cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. Students in grades K–8 have P.E. five days per week; Pre-K students, three days per week. In Upper School, TVS fields 68 teams representing 23 sports.

We educate the whole child. Come experience TVS with us!

7500 Dutch Branch Road Fort Worth, TX 76132 817-321-0100 tvs.org

The Lamplighter School

The Lamplighter School embraces and celebrates the natural curiosity and exuberance with which young children explore their world. Our Pre-K through fourth grade program promotes academic excellence; engages children in the joy of learning; embraces diversity within an inclusive community; encourages creativity and discovery through hands-on learning through woodworking, drama, cooking, and entrepreneurial programs; and connects students with nature through our campus gardens, creek, and barn animals.

11611 Inwood Road Dallas, TX 75229 thelamplighterschool.org

The Oakridge School

Founded in 1979, Oakridge is a top college preparatory school in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that boasts a diverse, intellectually stimulating, and academically challenging community. The school nurtures curiosity, creativity, confidence, collaboration, and character in preparation for lives of meaning and accomplishment in college and beyond.

To appreciate what The Oakridge School embodies in the lives of its students and families, you can merely look at the numbers. In the past five years, 100-percent of Oakridge graduates have enrolled in post-secondary education, accepted by 383 universities and colleges with 24 National Merit Commended Scholars and 40 collegiate athletes. In addition, students at The Oakridge School were awarded over $50 million in merit scholarships and

collectively volunteered 52,000 hours of service in the local community.

We embrace our students in a supportive community with knowledgeable, dedicated, and caring faculty and staff who genuinely know and invest in the lives of every student.

5900 West Pioneer Parkway Arlington, Texas 76013 817-451-4994 theoakridgeschool.org

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School

Students are challenged to grow in knowledge, virtue, and faith through vigorous academics in a faith-filled environment at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Multi-sensory activities and lively discussion bring each core subject to life: math, science, English language arts, religion, and history. Learning is enriched with a variety of specials and electives: foreign language, music, art, drama, band, library, outdoor learning, physical education, and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (options vary by grade). Students participate in recess daily, have access to chef-prepared hot lunch, extra-curricular activities, and on-site extended care. Schedule a tour today!

2016 Willis Ln., Keller, TX 76248 817-431-4845 seton.school

Head of School

Ursuline Academy of Dallas

An Ursuline graduate is a woman of faith and reflection. She embodies Serviam by using her gifts to learn from and serve others. She appreciates multiple perspectives and celebrates the unique ness of all, locally and globally. She encourages and exemplifies integrity and resiliency. She is a lifelong learner who engages with others ethically, critically, and empathetically. She is an independent, innova tive thinker who instigates and embraces change. She strives to build a strong sense of community.

Join us at Ursuline Academy of Dallas, an allgirls Catholic college preparatory school for grades 9–12. For more information, please contact the Office of Admissions at 469-232-1800.

Experience Ursuline Academy at our Summer Camps for grades 3–8. Give your child a summer

filled with fun, creativity, curiosity, innovation, and friendship! Camps run weekly from June 5–July 28.

4900 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX 75229 469-232-1800 • www.ursulinedallas.org

For information about admissions, scan the QR code:

Ann & Nate Levine Academy

Tom Elieff has headed five private schools—in Chicago, Seattle, Houston, and Dallas (at St. Mark’s School of Texas’ Upper School and Levine Academy). He received his BA from Brown University and his MA from Northwestern University. In 2005, Tom was an original cohort member of Project Sulam, a multi-year leadership program launched at Brandeis University. In 2019, the American Writer’s Museum in Chicago presented its first-ever Inspiration Award to Tom Elieff. Under Tom’s leadership, Levine acquired full membership in

ISAS (Independent Schools Association of the Southwest). Tom has served as Head of School at Levine Academy since 2014.

18011 Hillcrest Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 972-248-3032 • f. 972-248-0695 levineacademy.org

The Clariden School

The Clariden School is a leading independent school in Southlake. Together, we are raising a generation of leaders, innovators, and independent thinkers. We share in a community in which high academic rigor is matched by character education and a deep commitment to inclusion.

Our classrooms are living, breathing spaces of student-centered learning. From our youngest learners to our Upper School seniors, students are actively exploring real-world challenges and prob lems. Students come to Clariden to solve.

Clariden is a place that cares actively, innovates wisely, nurtures with intentionality, and operates with excellence. We invite you to come discover the Clariden difference.

100 Clariden Ranch Rd., Southlake, TX 76092 682-237-0400 • claridenschool.org

Dallas International School

Ranked among the top five private schools in Dallas, Dallas International School offers a French International Curriculum for grades Pre-K2 through 12 that incorporates classes taught in English such as ELA, Math and STEM. High school students can choose between the French Baccalaureate (FB) or International Baccalaureate (IB) program, while also earning a Texas high school diploma.

Lower Campus 6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230 • 972-991-6379

Upper Campus 17811 Waterview Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75252 • 469-250-0001 dallasinternationalschool.org

Tom Elieff

Murski, M.Ed., LPC Head of School

Dallas Academy

At Dallas Academy, our goal is to restore a love of learning, improve self-confidence, and ultimately have a positive impact on the entire family. Since 1965, Dallas Academy has offered a structured, multi-sensory program for students diagnosed with learning differences including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADD/ADHD, and memory and processing disorders.

As the Head of School, Ms. Elizabeth Murski prides herself on preparing students for further study and, more importantly, a successful life.

Join us for our Live Open House Friday, January 20th or our Virtual Open House March 24th. See our website to register today!

950 Tiffany Way, Dallas, TX 75218 214-324-1481 • fax 214-327-8537 mail@dallas-academy.com dallas-academy.com

Fort Worth Academy

Fort Worth Academy is an academically advanced, project-based learning school focused on empowering young people to become the innovators and problem solvers of tomorrow. Through PBL, STEAM, and other real-world experiences, students expand their social-emotional skills, lead with empathy, think critically, and collaborate effectively in a diverse environment. With over 24 high-interest electives, creative fine arts, robust athletics, and one of the lowest student-to-teacher ratios in the DFW area, FWA ensures personalized attention

for each student’s gifts and talents to thrive. Head of School, Shannon Elders explains, “We love to see students arrive curious and leave inspired.”

7301 Dutch Branch Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76132 817-370-1191 • admissions@fwacademy.org fwacademy.org

Grace Academy of Dallas

Grace Academy of Dallas is “Christ-Centered and Future-Focused.” Grace Academy is located in the heart of Preston Hollow and serves students in Pre-K3 through the sixth grade. We proudly partner with families to meet both the educational and spiritual needs of each child and offer a unique balance of an academically rigorous curriculum within a nurturing, Christian environment. Students are encouraged to maintain a balance of academic, spiritual, social, athletic, and artistic pursuits and to discover new gifts and talents.

Join Grace Academy for a campus tour and discover how your child can “grow with grace!”

11306A Inwood Road Dallas, TX 75229 214-696-5648 graceacademy.com

The Highlands School

The Highlands School partners with parents to form authentic Catholic leaders to transform society and the world. Our PreK3–12th grade college preparatory program enables students to grow in all aspects of life—spiritual, intellectual, apostolic, and human—as a result of our unique Integral Formation model. We help form wellrounded leaders that carry a strong moral compass to confront the challenges that they may face in the following stages of life. We are part of an international network of schools that

belong to Regnum Christi Education, present in over 19 countries.

1451 E. Northgate Drive Irving, TX 75062 972-554-1980 thehighlandsschool.org

Elizabeth

Hill School of Fort Worth

Success Starts at Hill School.

For the last 50 years, Hill School has been devoted to fostering a supportive environment that encourages growth and helps students reach their full potential. By addressing the needs of every individual, our programs are designed to strengthen students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being.

Every student can learn. And with the right skills and strategies, different learners can thrive. Call us today to discover the Hill School difference!

4817 Odessa Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76133 817-923-9482 • hillschool@hillschool.org hillschool.org/enrollment

Holy Trinity Cataholic School — Grapevine

Holy Trinity Catholic School offers a classical education that provides age-appropriate rigor within a loving and respectful environment. Our faculty and staff nurture the gifts and talents of each student by providing them with the tools and opportunities to maximize their potential, in and out of the classroom.

We offer an honors curriculum with an accelerated math program. Additionally, every student will have Spanish, Latin, Art, Music, PE, and Computer classes. Beyond the classroom we

offer over 25 athletic and or club/extracurricular activities. HTCS is committed to the long-term learning, development and well-being of your child, and that’s what makes our school community exceptional.

3750 William D. Tate Avenue

Grapevine, TX 76051        817-421-8000  holytcs.org

Key School

Key School celebrates the unique learning paths for students in grades K–12 with learning differences. Since 1966, our innovative programs have unlocked learning success through academic language therapy, low student-to-teacher ratio, and student advocacy. We offer open enrollment year-around. In addition to the school, our Summer Program assists students in the community who need additional reinforcement and enrichment of academic skills. Where Education Goes Beyond One Size Fits All, learn more today at kcld.org

7950 John T. White Road Fort Worth, TX 76120 817-446-3738 • kcld.org

The Novus Academy

The Novus Academy is a K–12 non-profit school in DFW serving children with unique learning challenges. The Novus Academy offers a low student-to-teacher ratio in a creative, supportive, and inspirational school environment. Students come to The Novus Academy when they are struggling to find success in a traditional school setting. Our students may have learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, or may just need a place where they can grow, thrive, and be accepted

for who they are. Call us today to schedule your personalized tour with our amazing Head of School, Amy Richard, MS, CCC-SLP/CALT!

3400 William D. Tate Ave. #1000 Grapevine, TX 76051 817-488-4555 thenovusacademy.org

Preston Hollow Presbyterian School

Preston Hollow Presbyterian School is Dallas’ oldest private school dedicated to educating bright children with mild to moderate learning differences in grades K–6th. The types of learning differences served by our school include reading disorder (dyslexia), auditory processing disorder, oral language disorder, written language disorder, and mathematical disability.

PHPS is small by design in order to provide an individualized, research-based, multi-sensory

program to remediate academic weaknesses. Our program is intended to engage learners while challenging them to excel with the goal to return students to the mainstream of education.

9800 Preston Rd. Dallas, TX 75230 214-368-3886 phps.org

St. John’s Episcopal School

At St. John’s, students are not only taught to embrace and celebrate learning as a joyous, lifelong pursuit, but to proudly and courageously apply what they know, across all aspects of their lives. As the first Episcopal school in Dallas estab lished in 1953, 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. We are located on 10 acres in East Dallas, near White Rock Lake. Our campus is designed to foster dynamic

learning, encourage academic excellence, and spur collaboration and community.

848 Harter Road Dallas, Texas 75218 214-328-9131 stjohnsschool.org

St. Mark Catholic School

As a leader in advanced education methods, St. Mark is a two-time National Blue Ribbon school and is home to the SMARTLAB® technology facility where students develop next generation skills through hands-on, project-based learning. Exemplary academics and instruction in art, music, foreign language, STEAM, virtual/augmented reality, coding, and physical education combine with faith education and a spirit of community service to develop the whole child: mind, body and spirit. Schedule a visit and learn how tradition meets innovation.

Now offering:

• Part-time PK3: Choose 3 days/week (pick your days) or 5 days/week

• Full-time PK3–8th grade

1201 Alma Drive Plano, TX 75075 972-578-0610 stmcs.net

Trinity Christian Academy

Dr. Steve Newby has served in Christian schools since 1974. Dr. Newby earned a B.S. in History and English and a M.Ed. at Texas A&M, and in 2014 a Doctorate in Education at Texas Wesleyan University. He has been with TCA since 2017. “As Head of School, my role is to be a servantleader, helping to ensure we provide an excellent education in a Christ-centered environment at TCA. It is clear to me that God’s hand is here. Working and praying with those who are a part of the TCA family is a great blessing and privilege.”

4954 E. I-20 Service Rd. South Willow Park, TX 76087 817-441-5897

• tcaeagles.org

Dr. Steve Newby

Head of School

Wesley Prep

“What I hope you see exemplified throughout our campus is a school family with a deep well of energy, joy, and love for our calling of growing children’s hearts, minds, and bodies.

We believe in knowing and educating the whole child—as a learner, artist, athlete, musician, and a growing child experiencing the various stages of cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Our promise is to create an atmosphere of joy to inspire children to become lifelong learners, where each child is known and loved,

and where children grow into confident, capable young leaders.”

—Meg Fahrenbrook, Head of School

9200 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX 75220 214-706-9568 • admissions@wesleyprep.org wesleyprep.org

Fairhill School

Students with learning differences find success at Fairhill School. For over 50 years, bright students with various learning differences have been able to overcome learning obstacles to reach their full potential. Fairhill has the feel of a traditional school while utilizing a custom ized approach to learning with multi-sensory instruction, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a college preparatory curriculum.

Please register for our upcoming Admission Preview Coffee

February 16, 2023 | 10–11am | https://bit.ly/3yAOKjK

16150 Preston Rd., Dallas, TX 75248 972-233-1026 • cstanford@fairhill.org • fairhill.org

Hillier School

I am proud to be the head of a school dedicated to ensuring that students with learning differences receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially. The Hillier School offers small, engaging classes for students with dyslexia and related language learning differences in grades 1–8. Students are taught through a structured, multi-sensory approach in a Christ-centered environment that fosters self-respect and competence

and empowers students to reach their full potential both in and outside of the classroom.

3821 University Blvd., Dallas, TX 75205 214-525-6600 • hillierschool.org

Inspire Academy

At Inspire Academy, we work to create a safe place to learn. Our instructors work with students of all abilities, providing both the community and individualized attention children with Learning Differences need. We focus on outside the box, multi-sensory techniques. Through our supportive community and unique instruction, students are able to reduce their anxiety and not only learn to be

themselves, but how to learn effectively. Contact us today to learn more!

55 Main St., Suite 293 Colleyville, TX 76034 817-803-5010 inspireacademytx.com

Lakehill Preparatory School

Lakehill Preparatory School guides motivated students to learn with curiosity, lead with confidence, and serve with compassion. Our challenging and nurturing educational community inspires students to become collaborative problem-solvers who live with integrity. Everything from class sizes to academic activities and extracurriculars is built around students. Give your student the individual focus they need to excel.

2720 Hillside Drive Dallas, Texas 75214 214-826-2931 discover.lakehillprep.org

Carla Stanford, M.Ed. Executive Director

Ginger Gustovich, M.Ed. Executive Director

Dana Judd, M.Ed., CALT, DLTx Head of School

North Dallas Adventist Academy

Many things go into an amazing Christian education. Engaging teachers. Subjects of interest. Challenging classes. Hands on learning. Inspiring spiritual experiences. Now add state-of-the-art technology, world-class music, competitive team sports, and opportunities for leadership, and you have a winning combination for students of all ages. Experience it for yourself at North Dallas Adventist Academy. There’s room for you!

Our Redeemer Lutheran School

Our Redeemer is a family with the common goal of creating an academically focused, joy-filled, and spiritually rich learning environment for students. We offer rigorous academic programs paired with social-emotional learning, leadership skills, and character development. Christian teachings are woven into every day through Bible stories, chapel time, and memory verses. We offer classes for 1 year-olds through 6th grade.

2800 Custer Parkway Richardson, TX 75080 972-234-6322 NDAacademy.org

7611 Park Lane, Dallas, TX, 75225 214-302-5845 ORDallas.org

Scofield Christian School

As a Christian educator for over 30 years, I believe that each child is unique, made in the image of God. We partner with parents to develop their child’s intellect and character, empowering them to serve God in society. Since 1961, Scofield Christian School has provided children, 3K through 6th grade, with an academically challenging, multi-sensory education, integrated with Biblical truths within a nurturing, Christ-centered environment.

7730 Abrams Rd., Dallas, TX 75231 214-349-6843 admissions@scofieldchristian.org scofieldchristianschool.org

Scan the QR code for more info.

DFWChild.com Directory

Helping parents successfully navigate the childhood years is kind of our thing. Explore our not-so-secret weapon, the online directory, at dfwchild.com

.

Schedule a tour!

Dr. Traci Tucker Head of School

ADVICE Expert

Q&A WITH LOCAL HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Nicholas Bushey, DMD

Children’s Dental & Orthodontics

17194 Preston Rd, Ste #160 Dallas, TX 75248 214/453-2567

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD TO THE DENTIST FOR THE FIRST CHECK-UP?

It is recommended that your child see a Pediatric Dentist within 6 months after the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday. This early visit helps gain trust, assess oral development, identify risk factors, review dietary counseling, and tailor good preventative practices.

The earlier the first dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Healthy teeth lead to a happy confident smile!

At Children Dental & Orthodontics we provide dental cleanings, exams, restorative dental treatments, sedation and special needs dentistry from infancy to adolescence.

PEDIATRIC FOCUSED CHIROPRACTOR

Bryan Asby Dallas Synergy Chiropractic 12890 Hillcrest Rd. Ste. 109 Dallas, TX 75230 972/387-4700

WETTING THE BED—WHAT IS BEING MISSED?

If your child struggles with accidents, these are the three things I would bring up with your provider. The most common reason for bed wetting in my clinical experience is the retention of an infant reflex called the Galant reflex, it should be gone by 6 months of age. When it is retained it leads to bed wetting, inattention, and focus struggles.

Or, it could be an imbalance in the fight or flight portion of the nervous system. This system plays a massive role in sleep, hormones (cortisol, diuretic), stress and many other biological functions.

Lastly, mouth breathing is a very common reason to see bed wetting. Mouth breathing alters the balance of the fight or flight system and impacts diuretic (pee) hormones.

A chiropractor familiar with pediatric developmental order should be able to find and identify imbalances in the nervous system. The best part, these can all be corrected.

Here to help navigate what’s next.

understand the challenge of knowing which path to take next. That’s why we’ve built a caring community where adults with IDD can achieve their fullest potential. Empowering them to attain independence, build relationships and thrive.

An experienced staff providing residents with the care, individual attention and real-world skills they need

A welcoming place to call home, offering continued access to employment, group outings and volunteer activities in the local community

The opportunity to enjoy an exceptional quality of life together with their peers

special needs.

about their diagnosis, the better. Just how early you start varies for each child.

TIMING IT RIGHT

Laurie Williams George, of Fort Worth, will never forget her 8-year-old son Harrison’s reaction to finding out he had ADHD. “So, that’s why I’m so awesome!” he exclaimed.

For Harrison, learning about ADHD and his diagnosis gave him an explanation for why he was struggling to sit still and concentrate in school.

Harrison is also dyslexic and wasn’t reading like all of his classmates. So in the same series of conversations about ADHD, Williams George also began ex plaining dyslexia, without using the word at first. Later, when she felt he was ready and under stood, she introduced the term dyslexia, which helped further validate his struggles.

HAVING ‘THE TALK’

WORDS KELLY WOOLEY

PECIAL NEEDS PAR

ENTING IS OFTEN

GREY, filled with uncertainties and ques tions with seemingly impossible answers. What will my child’s future look like? Am I do ing everything I can to help them? Is anything I’m doing to hurt their progress? And one of the biggest questions of all: when and how do I tell them about their diagnosis?

Many parents of children with special needs wonder if there is a right age to have the discussion, or if there are

certain things they should—or shouldn’t—say. But like so many other grey areas, there isn’t a one-size-fits all answer.

Still, there is a common thread among the advice from both medi cal experts and parents who have already navigated the question: it’s a process. This isn’t a one-and-do ne conversation, but rather a series of conversations that lead up to the talk, followed by ongoing discus sions that evolve over time.

“First and foremost, whenever you decide to give your child the official name of their diagnosis,

make sure it’s intentional and planned out,” says Michele Gortney, a licensed therapist at Rabjohn Behavioral Health In stitute in Mansfield and Gortney Counseling in Burleson. “This isn’t something your child needs to overhear on a phone conver sation or while trying to speak code in front of them during a doctor’s appointment.”

The “when” and “how” will be unique to your child, experts say, but as with everything in the world of special needs, the earlier you start educating your child

But she’s taking a different approach with her two other chil dren, 7-year-old Merritt, who has autism, and 6-year-old Madeline who has ADHD.

The process of telling Merritt about his autism has been drasti cally different, and much slower, than her experience with Har rison, their mother says. For one, Merritt doesn’t outwardly notice the differences between him and his peers.

“Since he wasn’t asking ques tions, I started using the question ‘Do you ever wonder…’ and then insert whatever it is I’m trying to point out,” says Williams George. “For Merritt, he doesn’t always respond when people are trying to talk to him, so I’ve asked, ‘Do you ever wonder why you don’t always respond to people?’ And then I’ll follow it up with an explana tion, without using the word, that relates to that particular symptom of autism.”

She’s learned to keep the ex planation short—one sentence or less—and not to expect any kind

How and when to tell your child about their disability

Notre Dame School educates students with developmental disabilities and facilitates their integration into society. As the only school in Dallas exclusively serving this population, Notre Dame is a unique educational resource with 150 students ages 6-22.

special needs

of immediate reaction. It’s usually a week or so later that Merritt may come back and want to talk about what she’s said. And it’s been in these bits and pieces that she’s slowly introducing autism. Eventually, she’ll get to the word autism and have a conversation with Merritt explaining his diagnosis.

Other moms have waited until their children were even older to talk about their disability. Sara Hawthorne, of Euless, for instance, waited for almost six years to tell her 13-year-old son Cedric about his ADHD diag nosis.

rison’s ADHD and dyslexia positive interac tions—she made sure that in each of those discussions, she pointed out Harrison’s positive qualities as well as his disabilities. And experts agree that focusing on your child’s strengths and challenges is important to this process.

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Cedric was diag nosed at 15 months with spastic para plegia, a pro gressive diagno sis that causes

will continue to worsen throughout his life. So, while Cedric was diagnosed with ADHD at age 7, Hawthorne waited until just recently

“Cedric’s physical disability causes him a lot of stress so I waited until I thought he could emotionally handle the news of another diagnosis,” she explains. “I also waited until he was aware of the symptoms. He started complaining about ‘just wanting to do good in school but there was something going on in his brain.’ At that point, I knew it

While Harrison, Merritt and Cedric all learned about their diagnoses in different ways and at varying ages, experts agree their parents took the right approach—they waited until they felt their children were ready.

“Age, cognitive ability, awareness of their symptoms and the ability to understand and process what having a diagnosis means should all be considered,” says Gortney.

Williams George says there was a key in making conversations around her son Har

“For example, I may tell a child, ‘you are really good at playing Minecraft but that’s a really hard game for me to play,’” says Suzanne Bonifert, rehabilitation services manager at Cook Children’s Health Care System. “Mak ing sure they under stand that every one has things they’re good at and things they strug gle with helps boost their confi dence and make them

feel better about the areas they may be hav ing trouble with.”

As you get closer to telling your child about their diagnosis, Bonifert emphasizes, “It’s important for them to know that their diagnosis doesn’t define them. It’s just part of who they are.”

Before you have the talk with your child, think of what you want to say and how you want to phrase it.

“I’m also a big believer in scripting,” says Gortney. “Find the words you need and pre pare ahead of time. It’s already a tough topic so better to plan out what you’re going to say rather than wing it when your anxiety may already be high.”

But the best thing you can do as you broach the topic, moms and professionals say, is to trust your instincts. When it comes to the perfect time, the right approach, and what to say, you, more than anyone else, know best.

“You know your child better than any doctor or therapist,” Gortney says, “so ulti mately, it’s your choice as to when you talk to your child about their diagnosis.”

“IT’S IMPORTANT FOR THEM TO KNOW THAT THEIR DIAGNOSIS DOESN’T DEFINE THEM. IT’S JUST PART OF WHO THEY ARE.”

HEN IT COMES TO FINDING A RESOURCE FOR YOUR CHILD WITH A SPECIAL NEEDS DIAGNOSIS, we know you want to choose the one that is best for your child and their needs. And, simply put, that can be stressful and time-consum ing. What’s more? Many parents who are raising a child with spe cial needs benefit from joining a support group with other parents who have the same experience.

After all, being able to relate to or ask advice from others who have been there is invaluable. So we packed this directory full of resources for families of children with special needs—from sup port groups and recreational activities to child care options, therapies, and respite programs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you know of a support group or resource we missed or have an idea for a new listing, send your recommendations to editorial@ dfwchild.com.

ADD & ADHD

Links of Hope Offers support and education to adult caregiv ers of children with ADHD, depression, OCD, and autism diagnoses. The support group of fers two meetings: one that is the second Tuesday of every month, 9:30-10:30am, and one that is the fourth Thursday of every month, 5-6pm, via Zoom. It is free and all are welcome to join. Fort Worth, linksofhope@cookchildrens.org; cookchildrens.org

ASPERGER’S & AUTISM

AUsome Moms A nonprofit that provides support, social opportunities, and education to Dallas-Fort Worth families with children on the autism spec trum. This organization offers a private Facebook group for moms to get support, encour agement, and advice. Flower Mound, kelly@ausomemoms.org; ausomemoms.org

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT-NT) Provides resources, support, education, and advocacy for families in the autism community. Check the calendar on the website for an updated list of events and support groups for all ages. Richland Hills, 682/626-5000; featnt.org

viduals with disabilities. Multiple locations, calabinc.com

The Clubhouse for Special Needs Offers after-school, school holiday, summer, and all-day programs for teens and young adults (ages 13–22) with special needs. It provides a safe and fun place for individuals with special needs opportunities for educa tion, socialization, recreation, and independence. Bedford, 817/2850885; director@theclubhouse.org; theclubhouse.org

Easter Seals North Texas Child Development Center Provides an inclusive preschool program for ages 6 weeks to 6 years where chil dren with autism and neurotypical children learn alongside one an other. Carrollton, 972/394-8900; easterseals.com/northtexas

KinderFrogs School at TCU

This early intervention program provides early childhood educa tion (ages 18 months to 6 years) for children with Down syndrome and other developmental delays. The preschool aims to prepare children to be successful in inclu sive school and community set tings. Fort Worth, 817/257-6828; kinderfrogs@tcu.edu; kinderfrogs. tcu.edu

CHILD CARE  Brighter Day Academy Fully inclusive day care for nonaggres sive children with special needs, infant to age 12. Medications and breathing treatments can be given on-site if necessary. Children accepted case by case. Dallas, 214/265-8585.

BrightStar Care Offers in-home care for high-functioning children with special needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and more. Availability of services is evaluated on a case-bycase basis. Multiple locations, 866/618-7827; brightstarcare.com.

Calab, Inc. Provides qual ity individualized childcare that encourages independence in indi

Mary’s House A nonprofit that provides day habilitation for adults with special needs. In addition, it offers before- and after-school care (Monday–Fri day), summer programs, and therapeutic options for school-age teens (ages 13 and older) with special needs. Dalworthington Gardens, 817/459-4494; michelle@ maryshouseinc.org; facebook.com/ maryshousearlington

Mom’s Best Friend The nanny agency and babysitter service pro vides referrals for in-home care for children of all ages with special needs throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Carrollton, 972/4460500; momsbestfriend.com

CYSTIC FIBROSIS

Blue Caboose for Cystic Fibrosis Provides back-to-school as sistance, a Christmas toy drive,

vnatexas.org

VNA Children’s Haven provides compassionate, expert care for patients (prenatal to age 21) and their families living with serious illness. Our team will provide the support and care needed in the comfort of your home.

special needs

a community parent network, and more to help families of children with cystic fibrosis. The adults-only support group meets monthly (location and date varies; see Facebook page or email for details). Dallas, 228/341-0403; kiri@bluecaboose.org

through therapeutic horseback riding, respite, vocational, and entrepreneurial opportuni ties. Krugerville, 469/450-9594; blueskytexas.org

to bring hope, healing, and happi ness to riders through encourag ing horse and human connection. Argyle, 817/729-5315; newhope equine.com

OBSESSIVECOMPULSIVE

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

North Texas FASD Network

Offers support and resources for parents of children and youth having or suspected of having fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. It has several support groups and family gatherings throughout the year in the DFW area. Visit the website or email for dates and locations of events. Multiple loca tions, northtexasfasd@gmail.com; northtexasfasd.org

Born 2 Be Therapeutic Eques trian Center A therapeutic riding and carriage driving program dedicated to providing the oppor tunity for individuals to become all they were born to be through a partnership with the horse. Individuals ages 5 and older with special needs build skills such as leadership, trust, assertiveness, self-confidence, patience, commu nication, decision making, stress management, and team building. Sanger, 940/595-8200; born 2betec@gmail.com; born2betec.org

Riding Unlimited Provides smallgroup horsemanship lessons for individuals with special needs ages 4 and up. Participants gain physical, cognitive, and socialemotional benefits through the movement of the horse, accom plishing new skills, and form ing a bond with their equine partners. Ponder, 940/479-2016; ridingunlimited.org.

Links of Hope Offers support and education to adult caregiv ers of children with ADHD, depression, OCD, and autism diagnoses. The support group of fers two meetings: one that is the second Tuesday of every month, 9:30-10:30am, and one that is the fourth Thursday of every month, 5-6pm, via Zoom. It is free and all are welcome to join. Fort Worth, linksofhope@cookchildrens.org; cookchildrens.org

DOWN SYNDROME

Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas Provides informa tion, social and educational activi ties, events, and support for new parents, families, and caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome. Fort Worth, 682/316-3121; info@dspnt.org; dspnt.org

Equest Strengthens and rehabili tates children, adults, and veterans with physical, cognitive, sensory, emotional, and learning dis abilities through equine-facilitated programs and therapies. Programs are taught by credentialed profes sionals and assisted by more than 400 trained volunteers. Dallas, 972/412-1099; equest.org

Stable Strides Farm Therapeu tic Riding Children and adults ages 2 and older with physical, emotional, social, or cognitive disabilities learn to become effec tive, competitive riders. Students are encouraged to ride indepen dently as soon and as safely as possible. Riders participate in the Special Olympics and other competitions and shows. Flower Mound, 940/595-3600; stablestridesfarm.org

OCD and Anxiety Support

Group DFW Support group for families and friends of individu als with OCD and other anxiety disorders. Meetings are online and free; fill out the contact form on the website for more information. ocdsupportgroupdfw.wordpress.com.

RECREATION

DYSLEXIA

International Dyslexia Associa tion – Dallas Branch Provides information and resources concerning learning differences to parents, educators, profession als, and anyone who wants to be more informed about dyslexia. The Dallas Dyslexia Information Group meets from 7–8:30pm on the second Monday of each month. Discussion topics change monthly; check the website for de tails. Dallas, 972/233-9107 x222; dal.dyslexiaida.org

EQUESTRIAN THERAPY

Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding & Respite Provides a safe, happy, and healthy therapeutic commu nity that works to empower and propel individuals with special needs to their fullest potential

Grace Lake Ministries, Inc. A God-centered therapeutic rid ing program with the goal of partnering with horses to develop life skills for those with diverse physical, developmental, and emotional needs. Riders include anyone in need of hope and healing, including children and adults with disabilities or social challenges. Anna, 972/837-4621; gracelakeministries.org

ManeGait Therapeutic Horse manship Provides a fun, enrich ing, and supportive environment for riders with special needs to reach their potential. Offers smallgroup and private lessons taught by certified riding instructors with the assistance of volunteer aides. As much as possible, riders participate in pre-mounted and post-mounted horse care. McKin ney, 469/742-9611; manegait.org

New Hope Equine Assisted Therapy Provides therapeutic horseback riding services for people with a wide variety of dis abilities. The program is designed

Unbridled Horse Therapy Aims to effectively intercede and encourage unrealized potential for those with special needs and dis abilities through the connection between horse and rider and the use of physical, speech, and be havioral therapy. Copper Canyon, 817/319-7778; shelly@unbridled horsetherapy.com; unbridledhors etherapy.com

Victory Therapy Center Cares for the physical, mental, and emotional needs of children, adults, veterans, first responders, and their families through the healing power of horses. Roanoke, 682/831-1323; victorytherapy.org.

ACEing Autism Nonprofit organization that provides weekly tennis clinics for children (ages 5–17 years) and adults (ages 18 and older; Richardson and Denton locations only) with autism. In addition to teaching tennis skills, the program works on improv ing small and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, social skills and overall fitness. Sessions are held in the fall (mid-September to mid-November), spring (Febru ary to early April) and summer (June to mid-July).  Richardson, 214/901-9010; aceingautism.org/ locations/dallas-tx. McKinney, 973/362-6591; aceingautism.org/ locations/mckinney-tx. Denton, 940/595-2392; aceingautism.org/ locations/denton-tx. Fort Worth, 262/751-3487; aceingautism.org/ locations/fort-worth-tx

MENTAL ILLNESS

Mental Health America of Greater Dallas A nonprofit that works to stop the stigma around mental illness and build awareness of mental health issues while pro viding resources from providers in the community. Offers multiple support groups at varying times; check the website for details. Dal las, 214/871-2420; mhadallas.org

Angel League Baseball Program

A baseball program for boys and girls (ages 4–15) with physical or mental disabilities and an adult league for individuals (ages 16–60) with mental disabilities. Seasons last 10 weeks in the spring (starting in March) and 8 weeks in the fall (starting in Sep tember). Rockwall, 972/722-6001; angelleague.org

STEM GUIDE

Parents know careers in science are growing at a rapid rate, and you may be anxious to give your budding inventor, entrepreneur or scientist an integrated education. Explore these STEM programs—from critical thinking games and hands-on labs to robotics and coding—to help prepare your child for a future in technology.

Prince of Peace Christian School Home of the POPCS SmartLab®

Prince of Peace Christian School offers students a hands-on, immersive learning environment where they can explore and discover a wide range of applied technologies. The unique SmartLab® setting offers students a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) learning experience that incorporates problem solving, critical thinking, design and innovation with important soft skills such as public speaking and collaboration. The program reinforces academics with real-world learning while building next-generational skills, taking students from consumers of technology to producers of technology.

POPCS SmartLab® activities include robotics, software engineering, mechanics and structures, circuitry, scientific data and analysis, alternative energy, computer graphics, and digital media arts. Students engage in authentic first-hand experiences, building and inspiring interest in STEAM activities in the years to come!

POPCS boasts two state-of-the-art SmartLab® spaces, a 3,000-square-foot lab in the Lower School, dedicated to students in Kindergarten–Grade 5, and a 1,200-squarefoot lab that serves Middle and Upper School students. The two labs make POPCS one of only two schools in Texas with a K–12 SmartLab® program!

4004 Midway Road Carrollton, TX 75007 972-447-0532 popcs.org

Inspiring STEM Learning in the Classroom

The Martin Science Exploration Center at Southwest Christian School allows students to experience hands-on learning in conjunction with the science curriculum taught in the classroom. This unique lab opportunity gives our students a STEM learning environment where they can use their natural curiosity to be problem solvers, critical thinkers and innovators.

Additionally, our Living Science Center (the Farm), provides an outdoor classroom that focuses on both life and earth sciences. Students work on projects including organic gardening, composting, sustainable agriculture, water conservation and greenhouse vegetable farming to name a few. Visit us to learn more, southwestchristian.org

Southwest Christian School

6801 Dan Danciger Road Fort Worth, TX 76133 southwestchristian.org

STEAM Through Project-Based Learning

Fort Worth Academy challenges students through an academically advanced program that rewards intellectual risk-taking and encourages the pursuit of excellence. Immersive and collaborative experiences engage students and prepare them for success in high school, college, and beyond. At FWA, authentic STEAM experiences empower young people to think critically in a diverse environment to become the innovators and problem solvers of tomorrow.

7301 Dutch Branch Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76132 817-370-1191 fwacademy.org

Irving Archives and Museum has it all! STEM, Invention Lab, History and so much more!

Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm, and Sunday, 12–4pm. Visitors have the opportunity to explore Irving’s pioneer past and multicultural present. IAM’s primary goal is to connect with the community in an environment that welcomes everyone. IAM also brings a first-of-its-kind to Texas, a Smithsonian Spark!Lab. In Spark!Lab, we believe everyone is inventive. Every day we provide opportunities for children and families to explore their inventive creativity—to create, innovate, collaborate, and problem-solve—because these experiences empower kids to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed today and in the future.

Irving Archives and Museum

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

irvingarchivesandmuseum.com

playbook

DECEMBER & JANUARY

31 FUN FAMILY EVENTS FOR A DREAMY HOLIDAY SEASON

MERRY & BRIGHT DRONE SHOW

December 3 and 17

GRAPEVINE MAIN STATION

The Christmas Capital of Texas takes its holiday lights in a new direction—up! This second annual Christmas drone show sends a fleet of 160 lighted drones into the sky over Peace Plaza (next to the new ice rink). Look up and, in a matter of eight to nine minutes, you’ll see

the fleet morph from blue snowflakes to Rudolph with his red nose. FREE 817/4103450; gograpevine.com

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A NEW MUSICAL COMEDY Now through December 23 CASA MAÑANA, FORT WORTH

This famously gloomy play gets the funny treatment in this children’s theater pro duction with contemporary music, pop culture refer

ences, and an Ebenezer with—could it be?—a sense of humor. We can’t wait for this twist on a classic Dickens story. Tickets from $19. 817/332-2272; casamanana.org

THE TALE OF THE YETI’S CHRISTMAS SPAGHETTI

Now through December 24 NORTHPARK CENTER, DALLAS You’ll see Santa in many of NorthPark’s holiday

attractions— Stories & Songs with the new Santa, the traditional Candy Santa and Pecan Reindeer installation, LEGO Santa— and in this original, all-new puppet show. How can a yeti help Santa save Christmas? Find out on level one near Macy’s where shows start every hour on the half hour. FREE 214/363-7441; northparkcenter.com

LIGHTS ON THE FARM

Now through December 30 HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM, PLANO

The restored 1891 FarrellWilson House at the heart of the farmstead already looks like a gingerbread house. Add a little frost ing—a quarter-mile trail of lights and festivities—and you’ve got a winter won derland. Make your own s’mores over the fire,

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

TISIVCWFD H I LD. COMFOR

PHOTO

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE Through Dec 11

and when you’re ready, Santa will be waiting inside the farm shop. Online: $12 adults; $7 children; under 3 free. At the door: $15 adults; $10 children. 972/881-0140; heritage farmstead.org

HOLIDAY AT THE ARBORETUM

Now through December 31

DALLAS ARBORETUM

Visit during the daytime or after dark for lighted views of the German-style Christmas Village, 50-foot Dazzling Musical Tree and the 12 Days of Christmas, an exhibit of glass-encased gazebos with characters from the song that spin ‘round as if in a giant music box. (Our favorite is the “seven swans a-swimming” around a frozen fountain.) Daytime admission: $20 adults; $12 children; under 2 free. From $10 for night time admission. 214/5156615, dallasarboretum.org

DALLAS ZOO LIGHTS

Now through January 1

DALLAS ZOO

After the resident animals are tucked into bed, you can take an after-hours walk through the zoo to experience new largerthan-life animal lanterns, new lighted photo ops, animal chats and crafts. They’ll have the carousel and mini-train going, too, and of course you can visit Santa in his workshop. Nonmember tickets from $18 for adults and from $14 for children; under 3 free. Advance tickets required. 469/554-7501; dallaszoo.com

COLORFUL CHRISTMAS

Now through January 3 CRAYOLA

PLANO

stations offering roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate. $28 adults; $18 children; under 3 free. To get in on the fun yourself, sign up to make your own solar light-powered snow globes during the Family Workshop on December 10. Best for 6 to 12-year-olds. $20; $5 for non-participat ing adults. 817/463-4160; fwbg.org/lightscape

SNOWDAY

Now through January 8 GALLERIA DALLAS

kind play experience has got larger-than-life props and spaces made for climbing, sliding and tossing around basketball-size popcorn ker nels like a goof. Admission from $28; under 2 free. 214/612-0451; camp.com

THE SCIENCE BEHIND PIXAR

Now through September 4 PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE, DALLAS

nature preserve, then loop back around to the party at the outdoor amphi theater. Register online for tickets: $11 adults; $8 children; under 3 free. $3 discount for Heard mem bers. 972/562-5566; heardmuseum.org/holidays

MOVIE IN THE PARK December 10

KLYDE WARREN PARK, DALLAS

EXPERIENCE

Let your kids make their own Christmas crafts, like an advent calendar or gin gerbread ornament. Plus, you’ll snap a photo from inside a giant snow globe and listen to holiday stories with Randy the Reindeer, who—we’re assuming—is Rudolph’s cousin. Free with admis sion: $27.99 at the door or $24.99 online; under 4 free. 469/6422901; cray olaexperience. com/plano

THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK

Now through January 6 NORTHPARK CENTER, DALLAS

This holiday model train display showcases a whop ping 700-plus miniature trains rolling down 1,600 feet of miniature train tracks. It’s the largest such exhibit in the state, and it’s all to help raise funds for Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. $10 adults; $5 children; free for children under 2. Personalized rail cars, engines and cabooses available for purchase. 214/631-7354, thetrainsat northpark.com

LIGHTSCAPE

Now through January 8

FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

Come take a stroll down a one-mile path lit up with treetop sculptures, singing trees, a fire garden and

Snap fun family photos inside the all-new upside down room or a light tun nel or in the Tipsy Elf Pub, the White Room and more fan favorites. Tickets from $21.99 for adults; from $9.99 for children; under 4 free. Combo tickets, avail able through Christmas Eve, include pictures with Santa in the newly expanded Santaland. 469/759-9323; snowdaydallas.com

MICKEY & FRIENDS EXPERIENCE

Now through February 15 CAMP, DALLAS Can’t travel to Disney World? For your winter stayca tion, head out to the hybrid shop/ play CAMP Store for Mickey & Friends x CAMP: An Extra Big Adventure. This one-of-a-

In this new STEM exhibit at the Perot, you can snap a pic next to a lifesize Buzz Lightyear and dis cover how Pixar cre ators brought Buzz and all your other favorite Pixar characters to life by tak ing part in more than 50 hands-on STEM activities. General admission: $25 adults, $15 children, under 2 free; plus a special exhibit ticket: $12 adults, $10 children. 214/428-5555; perotmuseum.org/pixar

HOLIDAYS AT THE HEARD December 9–10

HEARD NATURE SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, MCKINNEY Say hello to Father Christmas, Mother Nature and unusually festive dino saurs along the half-mile walking trail through the

Introduce the kids to the original 1994 comedy The Santa Clause starring Tim Allen and get a night out of the house. Before it starts, be sure to grab dinner from the line of food trucks and let your littles play in the newly expanded Children’s Park. FREE 214/716-4500; klydewarrenpark.org

THE POLYPHONIC SPREE CHRISTMAS SHOW December 17

MAJESTIC THEATRE, DALLAS

For fans of the worldfamous rock band/choir/ orchestra fronted by Tim DeLaughter, it’s not Christmas without this annual concert at down town Dallas’ historic the ater. All ages are welcome and holiday costumes are encouraged. Tickets from $45. Note that the band requires all attendees to wear masks and show either a negative COVID19 test result or a com pleted vaccination card. 214/670-3687; majestic. dallasculture.org

HANUKKAH MENORAH LIGHTING December 18–24

GALLERIA DALLAS

Each evening, celebrate Hanukkah by coming to the Galleria and witnessing the lighting of the largescale Menorah, located on level one near the Guest Reception Center. The first night features a special guest telling the story, a children’s choir perfor mance and complimentary Sufganiyah (jelly doughnuts) to share. FREE 972/7027100; galleriadallas.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DALLAS ARBORETUM; BRET REDMAN; DISNEY PIXAR; DISNEY'S MICKEY & FRIENDS X CAMP

➽ MICKEY & FRIENDS EXPERIENCE

THINGS TO DO

A VERY ELECTRIC CHRISTMAS

December 23

COURTYARD THEATER, PLANO Do your kids love those scratch art books?

Completely black until you scratch the surface to reveal vivid colors underneath? In theater form, that’s elec troluminescent puppetry— and Lightwire Theater’s specialty. See their holiday show starring a wayward bird named Max who blows off course and winds up at the North Pole. $35; $70 for VIP. lightwiretheater.com

PEPPA PIG LIVE! December 26

COLLEGE PARK CENTER, ARLINGTON

In Peppa Pig’s Adventure, it’s a camping trip for Peppa, her little brother and their school friends. Upgrade your tickets for the post-show photo experi ence with the largerthan-life puppets. Tickets from $29.50. 817/272-9595; peppapigliveus.com

SHEN YUN January 6–15

WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE, DALLAS

Experience the legends of ancient Chinese history in this live production with classical Chinese danc ers and a live orchestra. Tickets from $80. Kids must be 4 years or older to attend. 877/663-7469; shenyun.com/dallas

FAMILY WORKSHOP: PHOTO LAB

January 7

AMON CARTER MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART, FORT WORTH

Want a family photo worth framing? Join this Saturday afternoon workshop to create your own family artwork using experimental photo editing techniques inspired by the museum’s current exhibit  Speaking with Light: Contemporary Indigenous Photography (open through January 22). Best for 6 to 12-year-

olds. Registration is required. FREE 817/738-1933; cartermuseum.org

BLUEY’S BIG DAY January 7–8

TEXAS TRUST CU THEATRE, GRAND PRAIRIE Mum, Dad, Bingo, Bluey! The whole family of Australian cattle dogs, The Heelers, are all here on their first live theater tour.

Treat your preschooler to this new show with largerthan-life-size puppets that look just like the cartoon. Tickets from $25. $75 VIP for the character meet and greet. 972/854-5076; events.bluey.tv

FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO January 13–February 4

DICKIES ARENA & WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL CENTER, FORT WORTH

The animals are the collec tive stars of the show— all 30,000 of them, and here’s your kids’ chance to see all the pigs, paint horses and GOATs they can handle. For the most fun, don’t miss Kids Gone Wild day on January 22. $12 adults; $6 children; under 6 free. Rodeo tickets from $30; under 2 free. 817/877-2420; fwssr.com

DALLAS MLK DAY PARADE January 16

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BLVD, DALLAS

On the national holiday honoring the legacy of the leader of the Civil Rights Movement, come line up along MLK Blvd. around Fair Park to watch more than 250 entries— including floats, marching bands and young groups in this one-mile parade. FREE 214/670-8418; dallasmlkcenter.com

THE LION KING January 18–29

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

You’re guaranteed to let out more than a few gasps at the beauty of this beloved

Broadway musical, one of the biggest stage produc tions in the world, and Fort Worth is the only tour stop in Texas this year. Tickets from $55. Tickets available by request for the sensoryfriendly performance on January 28. 817/212-4280; basshall.com

DALLAS AREA TRAIN SHOW January 21–22

PLANO EVENT CENTER

For more train fun beyond the holidays, come take a peek at this annual model train exhibit. You’ll get to talk to the enthusiasts who built the layouts, see the many dozens of railcars as they chug through tun nels and around mountain terrain, and shop for your kids’ own train toys. Admission is $10 for adults; under 13 free. 972/9415840; dfwtrainshows.com

SAN JOSE TAIKO January 28

COPPELL ARTS CENTER

This traditional Japanese drumming group demon strates their artistry dur ing two shows, but you’ll want to come to the early show. The matinee is an interactive educational performance where your own kids can come on stage to pound on the drums and try out this Japanese art form for themselves. Tickets are $27 for matinee; $35 for evening. 972/304-7047; coppellartscenter.org

DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS Opens January 28 DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER

Kids love picture books by bestselling author Mo Willems because he breaks that fourth wall with the reader. And this new musi cal takes his very first Pigeon story from the book and onto the stage where we meet Pigeon, who we’re positive does not have a driver’s license. Great for kids as young as 3. Tickets from $18. 214/740-0051; dct.org

CRAZY FOR NUTCRACKERS

OUR FOREVER OBSESSION with the story of Clara and her magical Nutcracker, made famous by Tchaikovsky’s 1892 ballet, endures with these new and returning holiday experiences.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE Now through 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 fol lows young Isabella, who’s “jaded by the craze surround ing 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

TEXAS BALLET THEATER’S THE NUTCRACKER Now through December 4 WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE, DALLAS December 9–24

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

For the ultimate classical Christmas experience, there’s no skipping this professionally produced, extravagant produc tion, and tickets start at just $25. We suggest catching the matinee performance on either December 3, 10 or 17 so your kids can join the pre-show Kingdom of Sweets activity area for coloring and take-home crafts. Tickets from $25. 877/828-9200; texasballettheater.org

THE IMMERSIVE NUTCRACKER: A WINTER MIRACLE Now through December 31 LIGHTHOUSE ARTSPACE, DALLAS

Not sure your youngest will sit through an entire ballet? Try out this new digital experience instead. It’s made by the same peo ple behind the Immersive Van Gogh, and this one’s got room for your kids to move around the room while the images dance across the walls and Tchaikovsky plays over the speakers. Tickets from $29.99. 844/307-4644; immersive-nutcracker.com

NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET December 26

MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK, DALLAS

Wanting to give your kids an “experience” as a gift or enter taining out-of-town guests the day after Christmas? This is a fabulous ballet features oversized puppets, marionettes and acrobatics by an international cast. Tickets from $30, and a portion of proceeds will be donated to humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine. 800/745-3000; nutcracker.com

FOR MORE KID-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK, VISIT OUR ONLINE CALENDAR AT DFWCHILD.COM/CALENDAR

THE IMMERSIVE NUTCRACKER: A WINTER MIRACLE

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Family Fun

19 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES KIDS WILL LOVE

‘Tis the season for family fun, and there is plenty of it happening here in DFW. From holiday festivals and visits with Santa to waterslides and rodeos, here's a roundup of great events for the whole family.

Chuck E. Cheese chuckecheese.com 888/778-7193

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City of Irving irvingevents.org 972/721-2501

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Coppell Arts Center coppellartscenter.org 972/304-7047

4 Day 1 DFW day1dfw.com 214/368-8686

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Fort Worth Museum of Science and History fwmuseum.org 817/255-9300

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Fort Worth Stockyards fortworthstockyards.com 817/625-9715

‘Tis the season for winning at Chuck E. Cheese Winter Winner-Land, happening now through Januray 8. Download the mobile app to unlock free e-tickets, deals on play and be entered to win weekly prizes!

The holidays kick off with a nighttime parade through downtown Irving and annual tree lighting ceremony. Festivities continue with family friendly events through the month of December, designed to get everyone in the holiday spirit. See ad on page 65.

Back by popular demand with all new acts! Let the holidays begin in awe with A Merry Cirque. Audiences will be on the edge of their seats enjoying thrilling daredevils, electrifying jugglers, and mesmerizing acrobats. See ad on page 63.

New Year's Day! Day1DFW, at Irving Convention Center, noon–7pm. This familyfair features children’s activities, live music, bounce houses, magic shows, animal shows, DJs, Legos, and more! Kids free! Adults $10, benefitting Vogel Alcove. See ad on page 57.

At the museum this winter, explore the holidays around the world with Winter Fest December 3–4. Then, ring in 2023 with Noon Year's Eve on December 31! See ad on page 47.

Sensational ice rink, Cowboy Santa's Cabin, cozy hospitality & Cocoa Corral, plus millions of spectacular lights make the Stockyards one of a kind! Giddy up and glide now through February 5. See ad on page 11.

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Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo fwssr.com 817/877-2400

Join us as we celebrate Fort Worth's western heritage, January 13–February 4. You can enjoy family fun and entertainment including a rodeo, shopping, carnival/midway, a petting zoo, livestock competitions and more! See ad on page 54. 8

Galleria Dallas galleriadallas.com/holiday 972/702-7100

From the iconic 95-foot-tall Christmas tree to SNOWDAY, an immersive photo experience, our holiday celebration is recognized as one of the grandest nationwide. Festivities include live entertainment, holiday skate shows, and daily snow. See ad on page 12.

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Gaylord Texan Resort christmasatgaylordtexan.com 817/778-1000

Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center

flynaec.org/build-guild • 214/330-1700

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

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa marriott.com/en-us/hotels/satjw-jw-marriottsan-antonio-hill-country-resort-and-spa

Unwrap the joy of the season at Gaylord Texan Resort. It’s a holiday wonderland of your dreams with millions of twinkling lights, dozens of activities, and the return of ICE! featuring The Polar Express™. See ad on page 17.

Join our DIY workshops! Have fun, learn new tool skills, then take your custom-built creation home. Laugh and learn in our date night and family-friendly hands-on programs. Find ongoing Build Guild menu and registrations opportunities online.

In Spark!Lab, at Irving Archives and Museum, children engage in hands-on activities that combine STEM with art, history, and creativity. Children explore the invention process and learn about the role invention has played throughout history. See ad on page 53.

Join the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa for a family-friendly weekend getaway. Resort guests of all ages can enjoy fun crafts and activities, thrilling water slides, 1,100-foot lazy river, and more! 210/276-2500

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Lights on The Lake Little Elm lightsonthelakelittleelm.com

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

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NorthPark Center northparkcenter.com

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Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/296-9950

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

Along with an incredible light show, Lights on The Lake will offer themed weekends, live entertainment, pictures with Santa, a hot air balloon glow, a Ferris wheel, a carousel, an ice skating rink, and more! See ad on page 64.

Don't miss the 100th performance of NTPA's holiday tradition, Scrooge the Musical, performing December 8–18 in Plano. Plus check out their winter camps, workshops, and auditions for youth in Plano, Fairview, Frisco, Dallas, and Southlake! See ad on page 6.

Celebrate the holiday season at NorthPark Center! Don't miss visits and storytime with Santa Claus, The Trains at NorthPark, Scrooge Puppet Theatre, Gingertown, SPCA Adoption Center, special performances, and so much more. See ad on pages 2 and 3.

Day or night, the iconic Reunion Tower is the top spot for family fun! Visit the website for upcoming events like the annual OVER THE TOP NYE fireworks show.

Discover Nature at the River Legacy Nature Center! Play in our exhibits, explore the nature trails, and learn about nature and wildlife at Nature School, summer camps, various family educational programs, and community festivals. See ad on page 64.

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The Shops at Highland Village

theshopsathighlandvillage.com 972/317-7500

Texas Christkindl Market

Come meet Santa, whisper what you want for Christmas in his ear, take a professional photo, and receive a treat! Make your reservations today. Santa will be here through December 24. Walk ups are welcome. See ad on page 15. 19

txchristkindlmarket.com 800/433-5374

Inspired by the cherished German tradition, the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington is a free, family-friendly market featuring a unique shopping experience for gifts, festive foods, St. Nikolaus and Kinder Kids Root Beer Garden. See ad on page 7.

ICE, ICE BABY

5 Holiday destinations for frosty fun

EVEN DURING THE MOST FRIGID WINTER MONTHS, heavy snowfall in Dallas-Fort Worth is a rather rare occurrence. Unlike our northern neigh bors who must regularly dodge icicles or salt their driveways, a forecast of coming snow here is often cause for celebration for your kids.

But no matter the weather predictions this winter, we are guaranteed the chance to play in snow and experience all those quintessential winter pastimes at these five new or notable attractions open here this season.

Snow tubing, snowman building, ice-skating—we share all the details here for where to find wintry fun, so you can focus your energy on convincing your kids that, yes, they do need to wear their winter coats. And also yes, the kids can meet Santa at all these loca tions through Christmas Eve.

PEACE PLAZA ICE RINK GRAPEVINE

The Christmas Capital of Texas steps up its game with its first-ever ice-skating rink. This 4,500-square-foot outdoor rink is open through January 8 (closed Christmas Day) and located directly in front of Grapevine Main Station. Admission is $20 per person for all ages for a one-hour skate, and that’s with the skate rental included. Open times vary by day, so go online to grapevinetexasusa.com/christmas to schedule your visit in advance, or get tickets at the door as space allows.

While you’re waiting, you can fill your bellies with treats from the adjacent concession area or head indoors for Harvest Hall’s seven globallyinspired restaurants. The mini burgers from Easy Slider are the way to go for a quick meal with your littles. (This food hall is worth a visit, too, from noon–2pm December 20 for the Kids’ Christmas DJ and Ugly Sweater Competition.)

If you’ve scored tickets to the North Pole Express train ride, come ice-skating at this rink before your scheduled excursion departing from Cotton Belt Depot, or say hello to Santa located right across the train tracks at the North Pole Express General Store. (Book him in advance at mainstreetsanta.com.)

To pair your ice-skating outing with an other activity, catch a classic Christmas movie or cartoon on screen at the Palace Theatre, and pick up an Elf Adventure Christmas passport for fun any day through December 22.

STOCKYARDS RODEO RINK

FORT

WORTH

It’s true that Panther Island Ice won’t be return ing this year, but try not to be too disappointed because this inaugural outdoor ice rink pops up nearby at the Fort Worth Stockyards Na tional Historic District. The 4,000-square-foot ice-skating rink operates on the lawn of the Livestock Exchange Building, open through February 5. That’s one day after the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo wraps up, meaning you’ve got plenty of time to check out this rink, but we think it’s worth boot scootin’ over there during the Christmas festivities to get the full holiday experience.

Cowboy Santa, donning his signature white cowboy hat, will be greeting guests directly across from the ice rink and the 40-foot Christmas tree, and Mrs. Claus reads stories (on select dates) in the Santa’s Holiday Vil lage. The (hot) Cocoa Corral can help you stay warm until it’s your time to skate. Each skating sessions lasts 90 minutes, with sessions starting at 11am, 1, 3, 5 and 7pm daily with an extra 9pm session available on weekends.

General admission, including a skate rental, runs $20 per person; or $15 when purchased

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

➽

ABOVE: A reindeer’s-eye view of the ice-skating trail and lighted maze at the Enchant Christmas in Dallas.

from the arena box office along with a ticket to a Cowtown Coliseum rodeo or concert. Schedule your skate and see the full holiday lineup online at fortworthstockyards.com

ENCHANT CHRISTMAS DALLAS

For families closer to Dallas, we recommend this outdoor ice rink at Enchant, now back at Fair Park and open evenings through New Year’s Day. Theirs is no run-of-the-mill, oval rink but an ice-skating trail that twists and turns past a forest of lighted trees.

Ice-skating admission and rental is $17, plus general festival admission, which starts at $34 for adults and $20 for chil dren; under 3 free. Want to save money? Come on Wednes days December 7 and 14 when kids get Enchant admission for free with an adult. Don’t want to wait in line? Get the VIP upgrade for quicker access to the ice trail, Santa visits, and Enchant’s signature attraction: an all-new light maze called “The Mischievous Elf.”

There, you’ll walk through lighted tunnels and encounter larger-than-life light sculptures.

(Strollers and wagons are wel come in the light maze, too.) Be sure to pick up a maze passport to guide your kids in their search for eight “missing toys,” and drop off their completed passport for a chance to win a trip to a Hallmark Channel movie set while in production.

In the Village, you’ll find a gift and food market, and stories and crafts with Mrs. Claus in the Little Elves Play Place. Plan your visit at enchantchristmas.com

RADIANCE! & FROZEN IN FRISCO FRISCO

The Radiance! lights show with 3 million Christmas lights, open through December 31 at Riders Field, is just the tip of the iceberg. At the Frozen in Frisco portion, you have the option to go ice tubing down a two-story, eight-lane icy hill named Mount Frisco, drive bumper cars on ice, build your own snowman, and ride the Bucking Blitzen (think mechanical bull). They’re even offering axe-throw ing for ages 10 and up.

Several of those activities have height or age require ments, but Santa’s Snowball Toss with real snow and ice-skating

➽ ABOVE: See these colorful ice sculptures on display inside Gaylord Texan’s ICE! exhibit, kept at a cool 9 degrees Fahrenheit.

FROZEN INFRISCO

around the 5,400-square-foot outdoor ice rink is for all ages. Have a tiny tot who can’t skate? Bring them onto the ice with you by renting a Push Me Polar Bear skate buddy. They’ll take a seat on the bear’s lap for a leisurely ride while you push them from behind.

All that fun adds up, so choose one of four ticket bundles at radiancechristmas. com that match which activities your kids are most excited for. Options range from the $34.99 lights show-only bundle to the $149.99 VIP bundle that gets you access to every single activity offered. Once you’re on-site, you can always add on more attrac tions to your bundle the night of your visit.

ICE! FEATURING THE POLAR EXPRESS GRAPEVINE

This one’s the icing on the fruitcake, shall we say, because only at Gaylord Texan Resort can you experience ICE!, a subfreezing walk-through exhibition of enor mous sculptures carved from two million pounds of ice blocks in every color. Now through New Year’s Day, the Gaylord welcomes day guests and overnight guests to walk through scenes from the 2004 animatic movie The Polar Express. The entire exhibit is kept at a solid 9 degrees Fahrenheit, but not to worry. Upon your entry, you’ll be provided with a hooded parka, which are available in all sizes from infants to adult 4XL.

You’ll need to wear the parka to go down the ice slides. Parents, if you need a little liquid courage to slide down yourself or just need to warm up a bit, take a break at the On the Blocks frozen bar inside the ICE! exhibit, too.

Elsewhere inside the resort, you’ll find more than a dozen other holiday activities, more snowman building, snowball throw ing, to unlimited snow tubing down an eight-lane hill. Their indoor, 6,000-squarefoot ice-skating rink next to the carousel.

Prices vary by activity, but the ICE! starts at $25.99 for adults, $16.99 for children; under 4 free. You can buy the activities a la carte or as a bundle. Go to christmasatgay lordtexan.com to see all the bundle options and discounts, and to reserve your timed tickets online in advance.

FANCY OUTFITS. FESTIVE BACKGROUNDS. But there’s an even greater connection between these two covers than meets the eye.

The late legendary Dallas photographer John Haynsworth posed with his family (wife, Denise, daughter Logan and son, Holt) for the cover of our holiday issue in 1992. Then stylist, Alison Davis, art directed the shoot at Haynsworth’s Highland Park Village studio, but as she remem bers, he really took the reins. After all, Haynsworth was the family photographer, with a cli ent list that spanned from prin cesses and presidents to everyday Dallas families.

Haynsworth passed his talents, and business, to his eldest son, Holt, who carries on the legacy of Haynsworth Photography. And Holt passed on a tradition, too. Just like he, with his red bowtie, graced a Christmastime cover, so, too did his daughter. Chloe, 4 at the time, was our December cover model 26 years later.

—Amanda Collins Bernier

➽ ABOVE: Photographer John Haynsworth turned the camera on himself (and his family) for DallasChild’s 1992 holiday issue. ➽ RIGHT: Twenty-six years later, his granddaughter, Chloe, graced her own holiday issue for DallasChild

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