DFWChild April 2021 by DFWChild

A P R I L 2021

MEET MOM HOW TO OF QUADS START JENNY HOLIDAY MARR TRADITIONS MOM NEXT DIVORCE DOOR IN A MARI PANDEMIC HIDALGO KING

EDUCATE STORIES OF 2020 YOURSELF WHATNORTH HOW YOU NEED TEXANS TO KNOW COPED ABOUT IN A CHALLENGING CHARTER SCHOOLS YEAR

SPRING FLOWER SITES YOU CAN’T MISS

FAMILY ADVENTURE TO BROKEN BOW

+ +

MAKE WEATHER THE WORRIES HOLIDAYS HELPMORE YOUR THANRELAX GIFTS CHILD

pages / A P R I L

2021

20 DEPARTMENTS NOTED 9 The Path to Divorce

COVID-19 changed a lot, but marriages are still ending—here’s how parents can navigate a divorce right now

REAL MOMS 13 Mom Next Door / Jenny Marr One year after her quads’ birth, this 16 18 ABOVE // Class sizes, admissions processes, activities and more: Here’s what parents should know about charter schools.

SCHOOL STUDENTS AND FAMILY ON PATH: ©ISTOCK; MARR FAMILY: NICK PRENDERGAST; ILLUSTRATION: MARY DUNN

ON THE COVER

FEATURE 20 Multiple Choice More Texas families are taking the charter school route. Should you? words Ashley Hays-Weaver

Grapevine mom talks about her surprise and bringing home babies during the pandemic

Briefs / Four the Record

Jenny Marr shares the products she loves for her babies and her perspective as a mom of multiples

Routines / Amy Preston Three daughters and two businesses keep this Mansfield mama on the go until the end of the day

KID CULTURE

31 Weather Wise

Don’t let April showers (or any other storms) rattle your child

38 Travel / Around the Bend

Take a road trip to a peaceful, picturesque spot in Oklahoma

PEOPLE + PLACES 47 Green Scene / Flower Power

Your guide to spring blooms across North Texas

COLUMNS

4 Hello / Everyday Luxuries

Gratitude for the safety of home as post-pandemic life approaches words Heather Vance Devers Cover Kid: Summer, 9 Photography: Cindy James / Alyssa Pizer Management Hair/Makeup: Lana Adams / Kim Dawson Agency Art Direction/Styling: Heather Vance Devers

6 dfwchild.com / Off the Pages Where to enjoy the season and more you’ll love on dfwchild.com

50 Confessions / Mom Truths

A bath-time wardrobe, serious candle confusion and more memorable parenting moments dfwchild.com / april 2021

ABOVE // Heather Vance Devers in her home with her daughter, Betty, and son, Jude.

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NOTE

everyday luxuries

AST WEEK, I HELD MY 6-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER as she cried. Initially it was about a friend being bossy at school, and it quickly evolved into one small thing after another. I just sat there telling her it was OK, rubbing her back until the tears slowed and her breathing returned to normal. When she calmed down, we talked about how things are hard now—and that they have been hard for a while—but hopefully we would get to have playdates in the not-so-distant future. I told her that with the way things are going, she should soon be able to hug her grandparents or ask a neighbor to pet their dog, all without worry about an invisible virus. There is finally that light at the end of the tunnel. If we knew at the outset of the pandemic that we’d essentially be spending the year at home, we probably would assume not too much would happen in that time. And we would be wrong. I think about all of the ups and downs that we have had as a family of four in the last year; it seems crazy. Potty training, teeth lost and grown back in, jobs lost and gained, grandparents distanced, epic snowstorms and power outages… That’s just the big stuff. Even though we were pretty much confined to the house, so much of life kept going. Over the past year, our homes have become more than where we sleep. They have been schools, offices, entertainment venues and, for most moms, 24-hour cafeterias. Homes have contained more fear and vulnerability than ever before, but they have also been the setting for hope and laughter, as families spend more time together. They’ve been a safe spot from the madness of the world outside, and I know that many families want those positive changes to stick. Still, I will be so grateful to get back to normal in other ways. Giving friends a big hug, watching my kids play with their grandparents, getting a group of moms together for a dinner out—what were once normal occurrences seem like luxuries now. And maybe, in some ways, that’s a good thing. We all needed a reminder of how lucky we are to have one another.

Be well,

Heather Vance Devers 4

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

DEVERS FAMILY: KORENA BOLDING SINNETT

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CREATIVE + CONTENT DIRECTOR Heather Vance Devers

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DFWChild is published monthly 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 ©2021 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.

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SYDNEY BLALOCK RITCHIE

OFF THE PAGES

what’s in store this month on dfwchild.com

The Dallas Arboretum is a beautiful spot to enjoy spring.

WELCOME TO APRIL! Spring is officially here, along with rainiest part of the year—but hey, April showers bring May flowers, right? Speaking of flowers (and basically all things outdoors), we’ve rounded up a ton of places for your family to enjoy before the weather gets boiling hot. Find bluebonnet fields, pick-your-own farms and more Dallas-Fort Worth destinations on dfwchild.com. You’ll also find parenting tips, product suggestions and some good ol’ inspiration to make the most of life—whether it’s raining or shining in your world.

The Truth About Baby Food

An eye-opening report showed that several leading brands of baby food contain toxic chemicals, including arsenic and lead. We asked the Clean Label Project about what these chemicals mean for baby’s health and how to keep your little one safer at mealtime.

Have you seen this meme yet? People share how something—a diet, relationship, home project—seemed at the beginning compared to now. Our mom blogger Jenay takes this meme into the Marvel Universe in a new essay. (And even if your kid doesn’t love superheroes, you’ll totally relate.)

25 Great Patios to Visit Around Dallas-Fort Worth

Spring is one of the best times to find an outdoor spot to grab a meal, a cocktail or mocktail, and just relax. If you’re looking to branch out from your usual patios, allow us to make a few suggestions.

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

FLOWERS: DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN; SUPER MOM AND BABY FOOD: ©ISTOCK; ©I PATIO: SMOKY ROSE

Mom Thoughts: How It Started vs. How It’s Going

Beavers Bend State Park In the emerald forests of Broken Bow, this natural paradise offers wildlife watching, horseback riding and an enchanting woodland train.

Looking for kid-friendly destinations? Get ideas to choo-choo-choo on. Visit Travel

Oklahoma City Zoo

Take a camel ride. Feed rhinos and giraffes. And marvel at Komodo dragons in Sanctuary Asia, a Top-10 zoo exhibit in USA Today’s Reader’s Choice.

Lake Murray State Park

In Ardmore, explore a Europeanstyle tower. Rent a jet ski or bounce on the water trampoline. Then play some mini-golf… surrounded by 12,500 acres of state park.

Oklahoma Aquarium

In Jenks, meet a 300-pound loggerhead turtle, explore an exotic Polynesian reef & experience the world’s largest collection of bull sharks in the glass shark tunnel!

.com.

Every child deserves a nurturing family and safe environment to experience the magic of childhood and grow into a healthy and productive adult. Yet child abuse is one of our nation’s most serious public health problems and threatens the safety of our community. In Tarrant County alone, 6,203 children were victims of child abuse or neglect last year. Alliance For Children stands in the community as the only non-profit directly involved in the investigation of child abuse through teamed investigations, healing services and community education. This organization seeks to minimize trauma for victims of abuse by facilitating a multidisciplinary team approach to investigations and ensuring children and their caregivers are set on a path to healing by providing access to crucial services at no cost to families. Alliance For Children firmly believes child abuse is preventable, but it takes all of our efforts to ensure the safety of children. April 2021 is designated as National Child Abuse Prevention Month with the hope that our community will be empowered in the fight against child abuse, become more aware of statistics and feel equipped with knowledge to help create an environment where children thrive.

Take Action for Child Abuse Prevention Month: 1. Educate yourself with the knowledge to recognize and prevent abuse. For resources, visit: www.allianceforchildren.org/communityeducation 2. If you suspect a child is unsafe, MAKE A REPORT. Every adult is mandated to report suspicions of abuse and it can be the only line of defense for a child in danger. To report, call 1-800-252-5400.

For educational opportunities and more:

3. It takes all of us to protect children and set child abuse victims on a road to recovery. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.allianceforchildren.org/get-involved

Since 1992, Alliance For Children has RESCUED HOPE, RESTORED TRUST, AND REBUILT LIVES for over 60,000 children in Tarrant County.

FAMILY ON PATH: ©ISTOCK; HEART: NOUN PROJECT

noted.

THE PATH TO DIVORCE how parents and kids can handle a pandemic split WORDS

ALEXIS PATTERSON

IVORCE IS NEVER PLEASANT, even under the most amicable of circumstances. Throw in a global pandemic and the process can be even harder for estranged couples and their children. No matter how ready you may be to move forward, it’s a hurry-up-and-wait situation. That’s emotionally taxing, delaying resolution. A drawn-out process can have financial consequences as well. Plus, some attorneys have raised concerns about issues being decided through virtual hearings. Here is expert advice for getting through a pandemic divorce. LEGAL DELAYS AND DISTRESS When the COVID-19 outbreak hit in spring 2020, family court hearings were put on hold, just like other day-to-day business. As it became clear that the virus wasn’t going away quickly, many dfwchild.com / april 2021

noted / T H E

PATH TO DIVORCE

judges moved to Zoom hearings. Cases began moving along, but not at a sufficient pace. That leaves us where we are today: with a bottleneck in the state’s family courts. In fact, Justin Sisemore of Sisemore Law Firm— which practices in Denton, Tarrant and Dallas counties—says that couples who file for divorce this year may have a two-year wait to get into court to take care of complex issues and obtain a final decree of divorce. It’s not clear when the bottleneck could resolve. Fort Worth mom Julie Harris knows all about the frustration of trying to finalize a divorce right now. (Her name has been changed at Harris’ request, as her divorce is ongoing.) Her split started in 2019, and with court dates and communications delayed, Harris remains officially married to her ex. “It wasn’t the court’s fault or my attorney’s fault that COVID showed up,” Harris says, “but this entire divorce process has been hard on my emotions. Each day has to be taken on its own.” There are complications beyond delays for estranged spouses to deal with these days. Some worry that a virtual format makes it more difficult for a judge to discern someone’s genuine nature. Another issue is that Zoom hearings tend to be shorter than past, in-person hearings. Sisemore recalls a case in which each side had only 20 minutes to plead. “That’s not adequate time when you’re dealing with complex property issues, family violence or a child custody dispute, and you need to present numerous exhibits or conduct thorough cross-examinations to reveal the full story,” he says. Sisemore adds that with limited opportunities to make your case, the quality of legal representation is more important than ever. Even if you’re desperate to file, consider multiple lawyers before you retain one. While COVID-19 postponements and technological disadvantages could be experienced by any divorcing couple, the pandemic has created special concerns for parents. In Harris’ case, the court wants to send someone to evaluate her children’s living situation. But home visits became complicated by concerns of COVID-19 exposure. Then there was the matter of Harris’ exposure concerns for her

three children when they were in the custody of their father. “I wasn’t sure the kids’ dad would be willing to take the steps necessary to implement the recommended safe practices—masks, social distancing, avoiding strangers,” Harris says. “I was nervous about continuing the custody-possession arrangement.” That’s a common situation. Sisemore says many parents don’t agree on how to handle unique issues posed by the pandemic. Some are even keeping the children from seeing the other parent in violation of existing orders. “I can’t stress enough how important it is for parents to not violate their court orders, because judges will enforce those orders to the full extent of the law,” Sisemore says. “Parents should also know that if they agreed to certain orders post-COVID … the judge won’t have any patience for parents who want to modify those orders now without a change in circumstances.” If you believe there has been a change in circumstances, giving you cause to not go along with existing custody orders, it’s important to contact your attorney immediately.

“THIS ENTIRE DIVORCE PROCESS HAS BEEN HARD ON MY EMOTIONS. EACH DAY HAS TO BE TAKEN ON ITS OWN.”

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EMOTIONAL TOLL Of course, the legal aspect of divorce is not the only consideration, particularly when children are involved. The emotional side is important to address. “Anytime a parent is under a tremendous amount of stress, it can impact children,” points out Laura Elpers Pierce, who practices with Insights Therapy in Dallas and specializes in child therapy and parental support. The stress can indeed be tremendous. With hearings delayed, an estranged spouse may be wasting assets or refusing to pay child support, while the other parent could be dealing with pandemic-related job loss or a reduction in work hours. On top of everyday anxieties we’ve all felt lately, a divorcing parent could easily reach a breaking point. Counseling can be a great way to unburden your mind and get objective feedback on the best way to handle your family situation. “I have found parent coaching to be tremendously productive as a way to encourage healthy relationships and progress at home,” Pierce says.

Therapy can also be extremely beneficial for children experiencing divorce. Around age 9 or 10, sessions can include directed activities and conversations, much like therapy for adults. For younger kids, play therapy is the method of choice. That’s therapy conducted on a child’s specific developmental level, using play as a tool to understand situations, explore emotions and teach coping mechanisms. While some therapists have returned to in-person office visits, virtual therapy remains an option for families with ongoing health and safety concerns. “Aspects are different, but virtual play therapy can happen,” Pierce says. “Because many children experienced online school, they have become familiar with virtual interaction.” If your child can’t go to an office and doesn’t tolerate virtual appointments well, a therapist may be able to work through you, the parent, to offer support. Pierce advises contacting a therapist to discuss available session formats. In addition, children can get support from other adults, such as a teacher or another relative. The important thing is to give them an outlet to talk about what they’re going through. Your family may also want to seek outside assistance if you disagree with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse on pandemic-related issues—continued mask-wearing, online versus in-person school and the safety of travel, for example. Harris didn’t raise an argument about her concerns regarding her children’s potential risk for COVID-19 with their father—“I just let him do his thing, and I did mine,” she says—but sometimes those issues come to a head. In that case, it’s essential to find some type of resolution so children don’t feel caught in the middle. “If [safety] expectations differ, I encourage parents to have a discussion with a professional as an attempt to work toward compromise and organize communication to the children,” Pierce notes. If it’s a health and safety question, consult your children’s pediatrician—but don’t speak ill of your co-parent at those visits or discuss politics of your divorce. Those aren’t things your pediatrician is called to handle, and they do not want to be put in that position.

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ONE DAY AT A TIME “The reality is that divorce wasn’t designed to be easy,” says Sisemore. “It’s just one of those things in life that’s going to be hard.” Harris says that’s especially true during the pandemic, so she’s trying to concentrate on her priorities. “I had to work hard to stay focused on what matters and keep myself strong and healthy,” she reflects, “so I could get through divorce and COVID with the least impact on my kids.” dfwchild.com / april 2021

real moms.

RÉSUMÉ

AGE 36 HAILS FROM San Diego LIVES IN Grapevine CAREER Dental assistant (prior to the quads’ birth) PARTNER Husband Chris, who works in real estate CHILDREN Harrison Foy, Hardy Smith, Henry William and Hudson Kerry, 13 months WHERE TO FIND HER AND SEE MORE PICS @themarrthemerrier on Instagram

Jenny Marr was told she was having triplets—then learned the babies were quads.

SWADDLED BABIES: NOUN PROJECT

mom next door /

JENNY MARR

oh baby, baby, baby, baby! INTERVIEW BY

HEATHER VANCE DEVERS

PHOTOGRAPHER

N I C K

PRENDERGAST

N EARLY PREGNANCY, A VISIT TO THE SONOGRAPHER is a nerve-wracking and exciting experience. For Grapevine resident Jenny Marr, it was those things and more. She is still trying to wrap her mind around the surprise she and her husband got toward the end of her first trimester: Marr wasn’t carrying one baby, and she didn’t have twins. Not triplets either, although that’s what she was told at first. She was actually pregnant with quadruplets. And not just any quadruplets: spontaneous (i.e., no fertility treatments), identical quadruplets. The odds of that happening are estimated at somewhere between 1 in 11 million to 1 in 15 million births. Marr’s doctor came across just over 70 documented cases of spontaneous, identical quads in medical literature. Marr miraculously delivered all the boys safely on March 15, 2020—the day before the COVID-19 lockdown went into place. The quads are now a year old, and Marr reflects on her life of four times the love, laughter and diapers. dfwchild.com / april 2021

real moms

/ MOM NEXT DOOR

DFWChild: First of all, happy birthday to your boys! They’re just over a year old now. When did you find out you were having quads?

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april 2021 / dfwchild.com

Jenny Marr: I found out I was pregnant September 30, 2019. We were told we were having triplets on November 11. On November 19, we found out we were having identical quadruplets. C: Do multiples run in your family? JM: Chris and I are only children. Multiples run only on the female side of the family, and we have no history of that. Identical babies are not a hereditary thing at all. One egg released, and then just continued to split. You could have quadruplets, but having identical quadruplets just makes it even more rare. C: Tell us more about your early sonograms. JM: Going in, I told Chris, “We have to be prepared that my body is telling us that we’re pregnant, but there’s no heartbeat. That is 100% a possibility, so we have to go in knowing that— because otherwise, we’re going to be heartbroken.” My doctor is Lauren Murray at Walnut Hill OB-GYN in Dallas. She’s really amazing. We’ve always had a really fun relationship. [At the ultrasound,] she had this funny look on her face, and she took the screen and turned it away from me. I was like, “If there’s no heartbeat, I came prepared for that.” She replied, “Well, there’s a heartbeat.” And I said, “Oh gosh, it’s twins.” Dr. Murray turned the screen around. She’s like, “There are three heartbeats.” I said a lot of swear words. Chris fully passed out in the chair—slumped down ghost-white. It was crazy. I made the appointment with specialist Dr. Brian Rinehart of MaternalFetal Medicine Consultants of Dallas. I absolutely adore that man. We saw the sonographer at the appointment, and she’s taking a really long time. Again, I’ve prepared myself [for the worst]. The sonographer has a funny look on her face. I said, “Honey, is everything OK? If one of the babies didn’t make it, it’s OK.” She was like, “Oh, no. The babies made it.” And I said, “Then what’s the problem?” She said, “I’m not supposed to tell you this”—and she counted their heads, “One, two, three, four.” C: How did you react? JM: We were like, “What’s one more?” That’s when [Dr. Reinhart] informed us that they were

identical, the rarity of the pregnancy, how dangerous the pregnancy was going to be and how we could possibly—I get emotional over this—not lose one baby but lose them all, because the chance of survival was 0.01% for all of our boys to be born. Our chance of survival was 0.01%. C: Were you a nervous wreck after that? JM: Chris did all the reading. I said, “I don’t want to know. I want nothing to do with anything negative. God gave me four babies, and I’m having four babies.” [Chris] told me all the statistics after they were born because I just couldn’t [handle it before]. I said, “I’m going to do everything I can, and God’s going to give us what he’s going to give us, and we’re going to make it through this. I’m having four babies.” C: What was your pregnancy like? JM: We were so lucky. I went every four weeks to Dr. Murray and every two weeks to Dr. Reinhart. Every appointment, he would say, “You’re doing great, sweetie. Keep doing what you’re doing.” I remember when he told me I had to eat 3.000 calories a day. I was like, “What?” He said, “You’ve got to eat 3,000 calories a day. I don’t care what you put in your body; if you want it, eat it.” Beyond that, they had me on double the amount of folic acid and 81 milligrams of aspirin. The babies grew so well. It was truly amazing—to have it happen to me and witness it all each appointment, and just to see how healthy they were, and the fact that I never went on bedrest. C: How many weeks along were you when you delivered? JM: I delivered on March 15 at 28 weeks, four days. I was trying to get to 33 weeks. March 13 was my last day of work. I was planning on taking a few weeks off, stopping work and just resting. That Friday I went for my appointment and said to Dr. Reinhardt, “I’m not feeling great.” I was kind of tired, swollen ankles. I packed my hospital bag Saturday night just so it would be ready. And then about 1am on Sunday, I started having contractions. I texted Dr. Murray, “The contractions are about five minutes apart. They’re lasting about a minute and a half.” She said, “You need to get to triage.” We went to the hospital. They were trying to stop my labor from progressing, because they were waiting for more nurses and doctors to get to the hospital to receive the babies. They weren’t

“NOBODY COULD REALLY SEE [THE BABIES]. WE DIDN’T HAVE PEOPLE BRING US MEALS AND COMING TO HELP US OUT WITH THINGS, BECAUSE YOU COULDN’T.”

ready for 28-week quadruplets that weren’t supposed to be healthy. At 28 weeks, quadruplets should be sick and have a really hard time breathing. They should have a ton of complications. Everybody got there, and Dr. Murray delivered the babies. Then they sent all the other people home, because we didn’t have sick babies! C: How old were the boys when they came home from the NICU? JM: They spent eight weeks in the hospital. C: How was it to bring home such high-risk babies during a pandemic? JM: I do feel bad for the boys, and they’ll never remember this because obviously they were babies, but we didn’t get the big welcome home. Nobody could really see them. We didn’t have people bring us meals and coming to help us out with things, because you couldn’t. C: One year later, what are the boys like? JM: They’re all crawling. I have two who will be walking in the next month probably, which means the other two aren’t far behind. They’re into everything. They’re dirty and messy. They’re already such little boys! Eating is just shoveling food into their face as fast as they possibly can. They’re funny and just sweet as can be. C: What is your schedule like with four little ones? JM: Right now, it’s so repetitive, but I guess that’s kids in general. I feel like all I do is feed them, change them, play with them. We usually wake up around like 7:30am, that’s when the first one is moving. They go to bed around 7:15pm and typically sleep through the night. It’s amazing— that, I think, is the only reason I’m a functioning adult! In the morning, I get them all up. I wait until almost everybody’s up to start feeding them. This week, three of four are holding their own bottles, which is incredible. Earlier on, I would bottle-prop feed them. Then they started getting active and moving everywhere, so prop feeding didn’t work anymore. I’d have to hold each baby and feed them all individually, which is a lot. A regular day is wake up, play, eat, play, change diapers, change outfits in between that, solid foods, clean up, nap time—they nap from 10am to noon, typically. From noon until 2:30pm we’re up and do the same thing: bottle, play, hang out. Then we usually nap between 2:30pm and 4pm, then they’re up until bedtime. Some days I’m like, “You know what? If you take the second nap, fantastic. If you don’t, you don’t.” We’ll usually go for a long walk those days, or I’ll do something that is drive-through or pickup. C: You have to get some kind of award for going from zero to four babies instantly. JM: You know, so many people ask, “How do you do it?” I don’t know anything different, and I don’t really have another option! My family had preschools when I was growing up, and 8 weeks was the starting age. I used to sit in with the preschool babies. I was around kids so much that it is like second nature to take care of children. It is what it is. You’ve got to roll with the punches. I remember asking my doctor, “Do I need to go to parenting classes?” She said, “No, you’re going to learn things in the NICU. And there are four of them. Nobody is really going to teach you how to do this.” C: Have you met anyone else with quads? JM: I reached out to Lindsay Hay on Instagram; she also has quads. I asked her random questions, just things that I was concerned about. “What do I do with this?” I remember this one night I sent Chris to go out. I said, “You need a break. Go out with a friend.” He left and of course the babies started crying and screaming. I was losing my mind. I texted Lindsay, “What do you do?” She goes, “Take a deep breath. You’re going to figure it out. If they’re fed, they’re changed and they’re still crying, there’s nothing you can do. You’ve got to get through it.” She’s been a good source of help, because not everyone gets it. Some days are crazy and nuts, and one baby can just be an absolute jerk sometimes. I have no problem saying that. Babies can be jerks. C: What has been the biggest surprise of having four babies? JM: How wonderful they are. [Despite what I said,] they’re great babies. People ask, “Are they always that happy, or is that just in pictures?” They’re always that happy. I’m so happy they are, because could you imagine four babies who are awful and crying and upset all the time? That sounds like the worst thing ever. I would have left! (Laughs.) dfwchild.com / april 2021

BRIEFS

FOUR THE RECORD

jenny marr’s favorite things and advice as a mom of multiples INTERVIEW

MV P BA BY PRO D U C T

HEATHER VANCE DEVERS

B E S T CLOTH I N G FO R H E R KI DS “When you have a gazillion babies, no store carries four of one size. You have to buy everything online. I love H&M right now. They have the cutest clothes, and they’re very soft and comfortable. The material is thicker and they’re a little bit better quality, so they last a little longer.” H&M // www2.hm.com

G O -TO FO R G E T TI N G A RO U N D

“ZOE’S THE TRIBE STROLLER IS THE BEST INVESTMENT I EVER MADE. I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT MY STROLLER. IT’S THE ONLY WAY I CAN GET OUT OF THE HOUSE WITH ALL THE BOYS BY MYSELF. IT KEEPS ME SANE.”

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FAVO R ITE FO RM O F S E LF- C A R E g “I asked for a Peloton bike as my push present. That’s what I wanted, because I knew it would be hard for me to leave the house. I wanted to make sure that for myself, I stayed in shape. I love my Peloton. It has the app, too. You’ve got yoga, stretching and all different workouts. It’s important for my mental health even more than my physical health.” PELOTON BIKE // onepeloton.com/bike

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

MY BABY BREZZA FORMULA PRO. I CALL IT THE BABY KEURIG. IT IS THE BEST THING IN THE ENTIRE WORLD. PUSH A BUTTON AND THE FORMULA IS MIXED AT THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE IN SECONDS. BABY BREZZA FORMULA PRO ADVANCED // babybrezza.com

BO O K O N H E R N I G HT S TA N D

“I just started reading the Bridgerton series.”

MARR: NICK PRENDERGAST; OUTFIT: H&M; FORUMLA PRO: BABY BREZZA HIBACHI: ©ISTOCK ©ISTOCK; BIKE: PELOTON; BOOKS: PIATKUS

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/ ROUTINES

a friday in the life of

AMY PRESTON For Mansfield mom Amy Preston, life’s a party—one that never stops. Preston arranges Insta-worthy celebrations through her small business (Peace, Love and Parties), and she co-owns Olive–The Beauty Lounge with her husband Kyle as well as another stylist. When Preston isn’t perfecting the tresses of her clients, she’s styling her three daughters: Ava, 15, Eden, 11, and Liv, 7.

AM I wake up at this time every day without needing to set an alarm (which is annoying on days off). I grab my phone, check my emails for work and check out the weather to see how to dress the kids—we are in Texas. Since I am an early bird, I usually take the kids to school, and my husband picks them up. I always try to get totally dressed before I wake the kids. It makes my life so much easier. 7AM It’s time to wake the girls up. We have three daughters. Being a hairdresser, I love that all our girls have such different hair. Ava is a brunette; Eden is a blonde; and Liv is a redhead. Ava, our teenager, is the hardest to wake up, so I start with her. Then I head to our other kids’ rooms. Eden gets herself ready and always has her outfit laid out the night before; she is our perfectionist. Liv has the attitude to go along with the hair. She always has a strong opinion about her outfit choice for the day, so this takes a good 10 minutes. I walk back by Ava’s room again to tell her

for the second time to get up. Teenagers! Then I turn on the TV and eat breakfast. Next, brush and style everyone’s hair for the day. I always laugh to myself because I have never seen three girls dislike getting their hair done as much as our girls. And they have two parents who do hair for a living. 7:45AM We run around making sure everyone has what they need for school and try to get everyone in the car. Backpacks, water bottle, computers, chargers—oh, and masks. This is a big one, because with girls, the mask has to match the outfit. There have been many times we have had to turn around and go back home because they got the wrong mask. We finally get in the car and head out. Our girls are in three different schools this year, so I make the rounds. I usually fit in a quick Starbucks run after school drop-off to start the day right. 8:30AM I come back home for a few minutes. Luckily, we live about five minutes from our work. I talk to my husband about our day and business while he is finishing getting ready. By this time, we usually already have a full text conversation going with our business partner, just bouncing ideas off each other. 9AM We arrive at work with a busy day of clients in the chair. I’ve been doing hair for over 25 years, and I feel so lucky to actually love what I do. Most of my clients have been with me for years, so I look forward to seeing them. NOON Time for our Friday business meeting. We are in the process of building our own building after renting for 12 years, and there is always a lot to talk about. We do not have an office in our current space, so we sneak over to a nearby restaurant to meet and eat a quick lunch. 1:30PM Our business meeting is over, and I head back to the salon. We usually have a few things from our meeting to discuss with our front desk team, so we run items by them before starting on our afternoon clients. My husband gets off work early to grab the girls from school. In between clients, I am checking emails and answering questions for our staff throughout the day. This is multitasking at its best. 5:30PM I’m done with clients for the day and start to head home. I usually call my mom on the way and talk to her about my day. I have not seen my parents in person for a while due to the pandemic, so I try to call as often as possible. Since I work so close to home, I usually sit in my driveway and chat for about 15 minutes or more, just to decompress and zone out for a bit. 6PM My husband is the cook of the house, thank goodness. It’s not my thing. Fridays are usually different for us, though. We are both so tired come dinnertime that it’s almost always pizza delivery for the kids and Blue Mint (our favorite Thai food place) takeout for us. Tonight is no exception. Yum! 7PM We all get in our PJs and put on Netflix and chill out. We try not to talk about work, which

Diaries are penned by moms (and dads) in the North Texas area. The authors volunteer to share a day of their choosing and are not paid or endorsed by DFWChild. Send your diary to editorial@dfwchild.com. All submissions are subject to editing and may be cut for space. 18

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

PRESTON FAMILY: JENN BOILLA/STORYTELLER PHOTOGRAPHY

real moms

the fine

WHAT SHE’S READING The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins WHAT SHE’S WATCHING Just finished Ted Lasso on Apple TV+. Loved it. FAVORITE INDULGENCE Give me any kind of bread and I’m happy. YEARLY DESTINATION Seaside, Florida WHERE SHE GOES FOR RETAIL THERAPY Target, of course. FAVORITE MOVIE It’s a Wonderful Life FAVORITE SONG Right now, it’s Tame Impala’s “Let It Happen.” FIRST CELEBRITY CRUSH Kirk Cameron. (Does that age me?) FAVORITE DATE NIGHT SPOT PreCOVID-19, it was Mi Cocina in Downtown Fort Worth. FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION Waking up together on Christmas morning in our matching Christmas PJs and opening Santa’s gifts. BEST PURCHASE EVER My Dyson hair dryer. I can’t use anything else now. DREAM JOB I’m doing it! WHAT SHE DOES WHEN LIFE GETS STRESSFUL Drive around in my car and listen to Howard Stern on Sirius. HOBBIES Party planning for friends and clients SHE WISHES SHE HAD MORE TIME TO Vacation with family LOOKING FORWARD TO Going to concerts again CELEBRITY MOM SHE ADMIRES Drew Barrymore FAVORITE THING ABOUT MANSFIELD The friendly community is the best.

BEST EVER 2021

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can be super difficult, given that we are married and business partners. It’s Friday, which means we don’t make the kids go to bed at a certain time. We all get to wrap up our week together. Family time is the best time, and I absolutely love having us all together snuggled up on the couch. Being a working mom is a challenge, but I feel like I am hopefully setting a good example for my girls that you really can do it all. It’s not always easy, but I love having a career, running a business and trying to be the best mom that I can possibly be. Goodnight!

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dfwchild.com / april 2021

STUDENTS: ©ISTOCK

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

[ CHARTER SCHOOLS ]

multiple choice.

Charter schools offer free, public education and are plentiful in North Texas. Here’s what to consider in deciding if charters are the right option for your child.

WORDS

ASHLEY HAYS-WEAVER

ynthia Campos recalls the day

her daughter, Anissa, now 14, received her acceptance letter to the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts (FWAFA). “You would have thought she got in a top college. She was screaming and crying,” Campos says with a chuckle. “It was such a big moment for all of us. I could finally relax.” Campos had Anissa’s name on several other charter school wait lists. Campos was living in Aledo at the time and looking to move back to Fort Worth, but says the determining factor was whether or not Anissa could get into a charter school. “Not to say she wouldn’t have excelled in a traditional public school,” Campos explains, “but when I compared the schools in the area [where we wanted to move] to where we were [in Aledo], the ratings and test scores were just so low.” Ally Pires Tooley of Flower Mound says that charter schools landed on her radar once her son, Nixon, now 13, was preparing to enter kindergarten. “Our son is gifted, and I knew he needed an environment where he would be educated in a way that was different,” she shares. “It’s not that we were concerned about enrolling him in a regular public school. We live in Lewisville ISD, which is a great district,” says Tooley. “However, Founders Classical Academy offered that extra structure and support that he needed to really be challenged.”

As 2019 enrollment numbers for Texas charter schools nearly tripled those of 2012, it’s clear that more parents are opting for those campuses over traditional public schools. According to Texas Education Agency (TEA) data, there are currently 336,745 charter students enrolled, spread across more than 700 campuses. Another 55,069 students are on waiting lists for acceptance. While charter schools are educating only 6.3% of Texas students, the stats reflect increasing interest in this alternative education pathway.

the charter course. Authorized in Texas in 1995, charters are designed to give parents

another free, public education option for their children. Charter schools are autonomous from independent school districts and operate according to their own contract, or charter, with the state. Besides charters, the most common schooling options for Texas families include traditional public, magnet and private (as well as homeschool, but the significant differences make that form of education outside the scope of this story). The funding mechanism for each type of school varies. Public schools receive funds from the state. Magnet schools—independent school district campuses that are centered around a specific subject area, such as STEM—also receive funding from state and local taxes, with additional local, state and federal funding to support their subject concentration. Private schools rely primarily on tuition, grants and donations. Charter schools have only one source of funding, and that is the state. A common misconception is that charter schools receive more dfwchild.com / april 2021

[ CHARTER SCHOOLS ]

all about admissions.

Charters are, generally speaking, open-enrollment schools. But that doesn’t mean that every student who applies will get in. There is a short, statewide admission application for open-enrollment charter schools; that application covers basic identifying information on prospective students. Until COVID-19 became a factor, charters served students from designated geographic boundaries. But right now, and perhaps in the future, geography is not really an issue. When the pandemic hit, the state allowed charters to serve students all over Texas through virtual academies. Rebecca Good, Ed.D., CEO and superintendent of Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy— which serves K–12 students at campuses in Plano and Mesquite—explains that Texas lawmakers will have to address charter-based, boundary-free virtual education in the current legislative session in order for it continue beyond this school year. She adds that it’s hard to know if lawmakers will authorize boundary-free virtual schooling to go on in perpetuity. At any rate, boundaries are generally not an issue for charter families—the boundary area tends to be extremely wide. “Most parents who have called us are within the boundary,” says Good. “We serve from Melissa up in the north to Duncanville and DeSoto in the south, and from Farmers Branch and Irving out to almost Greenville. The area is huge.” It is not uncommon in the charter world for more students to apply than the number of spots available. In that case, the charter follows its policy to either hold a lottery for open positions or fill spots in the order applications were received. In a lottery, applications are selected at random. Once seats have been filled, remaining applicants go on 22

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

a waitlist. If a seat becomes available, the next application is blindly chosen to fill the void. This is why so many parents scramble to start their child at a charter school in kindergarten— there are vastly more seats, and once a student is admitted, they keep their seat until they are no longer enrolled. Another benefit to applying early is a rule that many schools include in their charter, stating that they will automatically accept or give preference to siblings of the accepted student. Charter schools with a fine-arts specialization may require an audition as part of the admissions process. Campos’ daughter went to three FWAFA auditions, starting in fourth grade. Anissa tried out again in fifth grade. When she didn’t get accepted, she took a year break, then successfully auditioned in seventh grade.

academic approach.

As far as student grades, charters operate under the same A–F point scale system as traditional public schools, and the graduation requirements are the same. Charter school families, though, may find more latitude in how classes are structured and learning is approached. “We follow state curriculum, but we’re able to package it in a way that’s more appealing to the kids,” says Good. “We use a lot of project-based learning. Our school also has tutoring from 3:30 to 4:30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, as well as Saturday school on various weekends.”

While charters began simply as an alternative to traditional school districts, many charter campuses developed academic specialties. Good’s schools focus on STEM and foreign language. Susan Feinberg, who lives in Plano, enrolled her 6-year-old son at International Leadership of Texas in Garland for its emphasis on languages. “Our initial interest in the charter school was that it is essentially trilingual, with English, Spanish and Chinese studies,” Feinberg says. “Our local public elementary didn’t offer language learning.” If you have a child with special needs, charters are an option. Charter schools are not permitted to discriminate against students with disabilities, and 8% of students in Texas public charters have special needs. Good says charter schools follow state and federal guidelines in terms of special programs, such as those for dyslexia, speech therapy and learning disabilities. Meanwhile, a charter doesn’t have to offer gifted and talented programs, but if it does, the campus must adhere to state policies. Most high school charters offer honors, Advanced Placement and dual-credit classes.

class sizes.

Many parents who go the charter route are looking for a smaller student-to-teacher ratio and more personal learning environment. Brady Cooper, Grand Prairie’s Uplift Grand Preparatory High School academic director, says that’s the case at his school.

Greater diversity is one factor a parent might seek in a charter school.

Grade Check

As with other types of schools, charter schools vary in terms of their academic ratings. You can check out accountability scores (for public districts, schools and charters) through the Texas Education Agency; search “accountability rating system” at tea.texas.gov. Campuses did not receive ratings in 2020 due to COVID-19, but past reports are available.

STUDENTS: ©ISTOCK

money than traditional public schools. Charters do receive more money from the state budget. However, since independent school districts receive money from local taxes, the average charter school takes in an overall total of $676 less per student, or 94% of the funding that traditional public schools receive. Since they are both public, there can be confusion on how charter schools operate compared to independent school district campuses. Both are overseen by TEA and credentialed in the same way, in factors including accreditation, financial ratings and academic ratings. Charters are held accountable to the same academic standards, using the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR testing. (There is a difference when it comes to performance. Charter schools that don’t meet academic or financial standards for three consecutive years must close. Traditional public schools with academic struggles have five years before state intervention, such as replacing campus personnel.) Like other public schools, there isn’t an option for faith-based curriculum, and charters are tuition-free campuses. With those basics in mind, here are five essential factors to consider about the charter course.

[ CHARTER SCHOOLS ]

“As principal, I know most of my scholars’ families. My high school principal didn’t know my name, much less my parents’,” Cooper jokes, adding that “in general, charter schools are going to be smaller than traditional public schools, which can give you much more of a family feel.” Class sizes were extremely important to Campos. “My motivation behind deciding what school to place Anissa in has always been the smaller classrooms,” she says. “I didn’t want her getting lost in the crowd. As we grow as a society, we tend to see that the classrooms are so packed that our teachers don’t always have the option to allocate their time to individual students.” But keep in mind that smaller classes aren’t guaranteed in charters. While there are statewide guidelines pertaining to class size, charter schools are not bound by those limits. Currently, the minimum for traditional public K-4 Texas classrooms is set at 22 students, with a maximum of 28 students. A 2017 analysis of TEA statistics done by the Dallas Morning News showed that majority of Texas public elementary schools adhered to this with a student-to-teacher ratio of 22:1, while over half of the schools with a ratio of 30:1 were charter schools. In other words, the classes may seem smaller, but that may be due to the size of the school itself. Something the study didn’t cover is the non-traditional way of teaching in which charter schools are known to operate. Charter schools may split up classrooms with the use of teacher’s aides, who are not accounted for in teacher ratios. Regardless, current charter school parents we spoke to consider their school’s class sizes small and appreciate that factor. “My youngest son is severely dyslexic, and because of the small class size they were able to pinpoint the areas he struggled in early on,” shares Lori Browning, a parent and employee at High Point Academy—a network of charter campuses serving elementary through high school students in Tarrant County. “We have witnessed exponential growth [in my son] over the last two years with lots of tutoring and through a dyslexia program from the school. I know regular public schools often provide these services, but I think that the smaller teacher-tostudent ratio has a lot to do with his success.”

campus culture.

The reasons a parent may pursue a charter school education for their child extend beyond academics. Diversity is one notable element. The Texas Public Charter Schools Association (TPCSA) reports that public charter schools in Texas “have nearly double the rate of Hispanic teachers and four to five times as many Asian and Black teachers” compared to traditional school districts. Charters also enroll more children of color. “Research consistently finds that students benefit when their teachers and mentors can authentically connect with their experiences and culture,” notes material available on the TPCSA website. A TPCSA study of TEA data for charters and independent school district campuses showed that

charters have a smaller achievement gap between white students and students of color (a difference of 9.2 percentage points between white and Black students in an all-subject analysis). And benefits may also be seen in disciplinary matters. A 2018 study published in Contemporary Educational Psychology found that teachers of color interpret behavior among students of color differently than white teachers, with fewer disciplinary actions from the teachers of color; in addition, 2006 research in the Kappa Delta Pi Record indicated that teachers of color may be more effective at deescalating behavior problems among children of color. It’s important to note that requirements and circumstances of independent school districts may vary from charter schools, so exact comparisons aren’t possible. But available data indicate that public charters in Texas disciplined 7.2% of students during the 2018-19 year. That figure was 10.5% for traditional school districts, according to TPCSA—which notes that charter schools also prescribed 50% fewer in-school suspensions. So-called restorative practices are sometimes credited for lower discipline rates at charters. Restorative practices focus on elements such as inclusion, equity, respect and rebuilding relationships. Rather than direct punitive measures, restorative practices may include talking circles, peer mediation and one-on-one counseling. While the restorative practices approach may be used in public schools, it is frequently associated with charter schools. Regarding parental involvement, charter schools are required to develop Family Engagement Plans, as are school districts. Campos says parental involvement is highly encouraged at FWAFA (or at least it was before COVID-19): “There are always opportunities for us to be involved in what our children are learning, whether that’s through helping them practice or study, or watching a performance.”

extra- and co-curricular activities.

Though many charters have extensive arts offerings (such as band, choir and dance), robust athletics programs are less common. A Texas Charter Academic & Athletic League schedules charterto-charter volleyball, basketball, soccer and track competitions—but sports tend to be smaller and less competitive in the charter setting. “High Point has a decent sports program, but it’s nothing like the ones in regular districts. There’s just no additional funding for top-of-theline facilities or equipment like there might be at a more traditional public school,” Browning says. “But I think that’s kind of the trade-off. We exchange the sports programs for a closer relationship between the teachers and our students.” Some charter educators say they tailor the activities they have to the interests of students. “When you’re a smaller school, you do have potentially less extra-curricular options than a large, comprehensive high school, where they can

Find a Charter

Interested in finding a charter school near you? The Charter School Division of the Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides a resource to the public called the Charter School Finder, including a search bar that goes by zip code and an explorative map for parents. To find this tool, search “charter locator map” at tea.texas.gov. Jake Kobersky with TEA adds that a new resource portal containing even more information is in development and will be released to the public soon.

afford to offer more,” says Cooper. “We offer extracurriculars, but it’s more catered and limited to what they want.” For example, Cooper explains, he had a group of students interested in debate at one point. A teacher put together a debate team that went on to compete in a mock trial tournament. Of course, not every school will offer the activities, or quality of activities, a family considers important. Misti McCalip’s children attended a Fort Worth charter for four years before returning to traditional public school, and slim programming played a role in the decision. “[My children’s charter school] just didn’t have enough funding for band, athletics, art, special needs or gifted programs—just normal things that you come to take for granted at a regular public school,” she says. After a fine-arts concert McCalip deemed unacceptable in quality, she pulled one daughter in the middle of the year. “I wanted to make sure that my daughter was not only receiving the best academic plan for her, but that she had access to other extra-curricular disciplines that would make her a well-rounded person. I didn’t feel like this school could support or provide that.”

consider your options.

The bottom line is that parents and students have choices, and it’s important to thoroughly research potential schools before enrolling. There are excellent charter schools and then some that aren’t so good, as is true with other forms of education. Furthermore, each child has individualized needs and interests, and there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to education. McCalip is grateful for the freedom to cherrypick her children’s method of learning. “The beauty of living in America during this day and age is that we can choose different educational avenues for each child,” she says. “We knew that a regular public school would be a better fit [for us].” Tooley, whose son is thriving in charter school, has a similar outlook. “I appreciate that we have a system that allows parents to be flexible and look into what they need to have a child who grows and truly blossoms into themselves.” dfwchild.com / april 2021

CHARTER SCHOOL GUIDE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CHARTER SCHOOL G U I D E When it comes to your child’s education, you have choices. Charter schools are a free, public option—here are some to consider.

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CHARTER SCHOOL GUIDE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

dfwchild.com / april 2021

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CHARTER SCHOOL GUIDE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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kid culture.

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Have a little weather fan at home? Club SciKidz Dallas hosts a Young Meteorologist camp in the summer.

WEATHER WISE easing kids’ fears about the skies

WORDS

ALEXIS PATTERSON

OR RICHARDSON RESIDENT AMANDA HILL’S SON REED, a chance conversation about a tornado when he was in preschool sparked weather fears. “Reed is highly sensitive, and [that conversation] just stuck with him,” Hill explains. “When the weather got bad, he would get anxious and cry.” Even years later—Reed is now 7—he is very watchful of what’s happening overhead. “A couple of weeks ago, we were at his football game; there were clouds and it sprinkled,” says Hill. “He had me on the sidelines checking my weather app. He want[ed] to know what was coming.” Almost every child has concerns about the weather at some point. Storms can be loud and destructive, and they may leave our homes dark. But since weather is part of everyday life, it’s important for kids to learn to manage fears. With some basic knowledge and preparation, they can better control their anxiety—and even come to appreciate a lot of what happens in the skies. dfwchild.com / april 2021

kid culture / W E A T H E R

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ABOVE // Fox 4 meteorologist Kylie Capps grew up in Flower Mound and told her parents at age 8 that she wanted to be a broadcast meteorologist in Dallas-Fort Worth.

WEATHER WATCHERS Weather is big and can be enormously powerful. For some children, that’s exciting and inspiring. “I was vacationing in South Florida when Hurricane Andrew hit in 1992,” recalls NBC 5 Meteorologist Samantha Davies. “I remember being there watching the forecast, seeing the media take over the area, evacuating, and then returning to see the devastation. I remember watching the Weather Channel, seeing the meteorologist reporting on the storm, then actually seeing them out the hotel window. Hurricane Andrew pretty much sealed the deal on me wanting to be a meteorologist.” For other kids, especially those who thrive on predictability and stability, wild weather is a source of unease. “Reed likes to have control,” Hill notes, “and weather is out of his control.” While we may not be able to control weather, professionals can predict it. And encouraging your child to pay attention to what meteorologists say is one way to help keep their concerns from getting out of hand. “Believe it or not, I grew up terrified of severe weather,” shares Kylie Capps, meteorologist for Fox 4’s Good Day Saturday and Good Day Sunday. “I had an obsession with keeping up with the radar and watching broadcast meteorologists on television. I memorized the county that I lived in when I was really little.

That helped me know exactly where I was when watches and warnings were announced.” You might be surprised at your child’s ability to pay attention to and process a weather report, especially if fears are in play. Hayley Hangartner, who lives in the Collin County community of Lucas, says an afternoon hailstorm led her son Davis to regularly tune into the news. “We took cover from the storm, and Davis became very frightened,” Hangartner recalls. “He became almost obsessed with the weather. Davis wanted to know the temperature and whether it was going to rain. So he began watching the weather each day. Davis was always asking questions during the forecast.” Try a couple of hands-on, associated activities to engage your child while watching a weather segment together. Buy items such as a thermometer, rain gauge and wind vane, then let your child compare data collected at home with what the meteorologist reports. Or simply ask your child to watch the forecast and set out the next day’s clothes accordingly. If they’re not naturally intrigued, a measure of interaction with what they’re watching or reading will help them better absorb the information. That can either set your child at ease about the day ahead or give you an opportunity to talk about what precautions, if any, they may need to take.

“THE BEST ADVICE FOR KIDS WHO ARE SCARED ABOUT THE WEATHER IS TO ENSURE THEY KNOW WHAT TO DO.”

CAPPS: FOX 4

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WISE

“We are so lucky to live in a time when weather forecasts are increasingly more accurate several days out,” Capps says. “We now have the technology and the data that can make that happen. These tools are right at our fingertips, and families can take advantage of that.” When anxious kids pay attention to the forecast, and see those predictions come to pass (most of the time!), they can start to relax a bit. They know the experts will tell them what they need to know. “Reed’s favorite meteorologists are Samantha Davies and Rick Mitchell from NBC 5,” says Hill. “Tuning into them always helps him. Reed says Rick has all the weather information and is never wrong, so he trusts him when it comes to tornadoes and other severe weather.” Davies and Mitchell found out about Reed’s interest in their forecasts and even sent him a personalized video, telling him how to stay safe during a storm. “Reed loved it,” Hill says. SAFETY FIRST When it comes to easing kids’ weather anxieties, knowing how to stay safe is just as important as knowing what weather conditions are expected. If severe weather happens to be in the forecast, take time to review your family’s safety plan with your child. If you don’t have a plan, now is the perfect time to make one— April is the middle of severe weather season in North Texas. Of course there are thunderstorms during spring, and from March through May, tornado frequency is at its highest. In June, hurricane season begins. Though we’re not on the coast, remnants of storms in the Gulf of Mexico can mean heavy rain for North Texas. Thus, the months ahead can rattle children who find storms unsettling. “I think the best advice for kids who are scared about the weather is to ensure they know what to do,” offers Warning Coordination Meteorologist Jennifer Dunn with the National Weather Service office in Fort Worth. Outline your family’s do’s and don’ts—preferably before a storm is imminent. It’s practical and can go a long way to helping kids feel better. “Having a good understanding of what they should do in a weather event, and practicing it, gives children a sense of control even when they are scared,” Dunn says. For the average storm, have a few activities in mind that will keep your child occupied (even if the power is interrupted). Whether they’re fingerpainting by candlelight or putting on a shadow-puppet show, special family time can make thunder and lightning less scary. If the weather rages after bedtime, make sure your child knows where to find comfort. “If your child is scared of storms and it’s nighttime, is it OK for them to come into the parents’ bedroom, or do you want them to go to another room, maybe with a sibling?” Dunn says. There’s more to take into consideration for dangerous weather. Davies suggests talking to your kids about how you are going to receive your storm warnings. “Will it be phone, TV or social media?” she says. “And discuss where to go if your home is in the path of severe weather. Let your child know where the safe spot is. If it’s a severe weather day, get helmets ready in a closet together.” Helmets (bike, motorcycle or athletic) are just one component of a severe weather kit, which you can ask your child to help you assemble. Have your kiddo think through what your family would need if you lost power, couldn’t leave the house or found yourself in a disaster. What light source could you use? Do you have a weather radio? Is there enough water on hand? (Dunn recommends checking ready.gov for suggested emergency kit contents.) When severe weather is possible, your family can check the kit and make sure everything is ready. Of course, the key is to help children feel prepared, not panicked. With that in mind, it’s not just what you say but how you say it. “For parents, educating your kids on what to do and when and how to take shelter is a huge help,” Dunn says, “but also doing your best to remain calm helps your kids, too.” That’s what Amanda Hill’s husband did during the tornado outbreak of October 2019. She was out of town, so he gathered their sons and the dog and hunkered down in a bathroom that is considered their safe spot

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dfwchild.com / april 2021

BEST EVER 2021

CAMPS • TRAVEL • CLASSES

VIRTUAL FAIR APRIL 16 Explore the virtual booths for summer options and hear from experts about navigating this summer safely.

dfwchild.com/BSE

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WISE

at home. They tuned into the weather on the phone, and while Reed was anxious, knowing exactly what was happening and talking about it calmly with his dad helped him through the situation. (Their home was fortunately not in the areas devastated by the tornadoes.) “Information-gathering is what helps Reed stay pretty even-keeled during a storm,” says Hill. “He wants to see and know what is going on. Anticipating a storm and wondering what will happen is what really drove his anxiety.” It was important for Reed to gather information continuously, not just when a storm is underway. “When Reed became frightened about weather, we started researching different weather patterns. He even did a project on

tornadoes in preschool—including a presentation and demonstration to his class,” says Hill. “His anxieties got better as he’s learned about weather. He feels empowered by information.” That was true for Davis Hangartner as well. As he and his mom regularly watched forecasts, discussed safety and read up on weather events, Davis became comfortable with the varied states of the skies. Today, he is more fascinated than fearful. “He enjoys seeing full moons, lightning shows, fog over our backyard and the different clouds every day,” Hangartner says. “During the snow this year, he bundled up every morning and was anxious to get out. Davis was mesmerized. I’m so glad he enjoyed it.”

LIVE AND LEARN

weather exhibits. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science explains weather phenomena through hands-on activities; for example, kids can use radar data and make weather predictions, and give the forecast in front of a green screen. Children can try their hand at broadcast meteorology at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History as well; the museum also features weather artifacts from the National Weather Service. In Collin County, kids can learn about air pressure at Sci-Tech Discovery Center. There are earth science activities at the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden at Dallas Arboretum; the garden’s daily OmniGlobe activities include a look at weather patterns. Classes and day camps are another option. Hayley Hangartner of Lucas enrolled her son in Club SciKidz Dallas’ weeklong Young Meteorologist program. Register online for this summer’s classes at clubscikidzdallas.com. The Dallas Arboretum’s STEM camps include some weather-related activities; Energy Explorers, for example, teaches campers about solar science and wind. Log onto dallasarboretum.org. The DFW National Weather Service office teaches about severe thunderstorms and safety through SKYWARN classes. They are free and open to adults and children. Classes are currently virtual; go to weather.gov/fwd/skywarn. SCHOOL VISITS: Davies and Fox 4 meteorologist Kylie Capps make visits—virtual, for now—to schools to discuss weather and what it’s like to be a meteorologist. Ask your child’s teacher to reach out to samantha.davies@ nbcuni.com or kylie.capps@fox. com to inquire about a visit.

When it comes to the weather, “knowledge is power,” says NBC 5 Meteorologist Samantha Davies. Kids are naturally curious, and learning about weather can be an important tool to calm their concerns. Here are some ideas to engage them: HANDS-ON EXPERIMENTS: Davies demonstrates experiments through “Science with Samantha” segments, with a new video posted each Wednesday on nbcdfw.com and shared at facebook.com/samanthadavieswx. SCREEN TIME: Consider the Weather Channel instead of the kids’ usual shows. There are always programs showcasing unusual and extreme weather conditions. YouTube is another resource for weather videos, particularly from eyewitnesses. (Just make sure the content isn’t too intense and is otherwise kid-appropriate.) READ, READ, READ: There are tons of kids’ books on this topic. Jennifer Dunn, a National Weather Service meteorologist and mom of elementary-age daughters, loves National Geographic Kids weather books. Richardson mom Amanda Hill says her son enjoys selections from author Lauren Tarshis’ I Survived series, which includes stories about Hurricane Katrina, California wildfires and the 1888 Children’s Blizzard, among others. COMMUNITY RESOURCES: DFWChild’s community event calendar, found online at dfwchild.com/calendar, highlights a variety of science events, including those pertaining to weather. Plus, area museums have

DAVIES: NBC 5

kid culture / W E A T H E R

CREATIVE + INTEGRATED approaches to speech + feeding therapy

Speech | Orofacial Myofunctional | Feeding Therapy We believe in a multi-sensory holistic approach to therapy to meet individual needs.

SAFETY IS A PRIORITY

Our safety measures include: + Checking temperature at door + Wash hands upon entering and leaving + Clean and sanitize rooms between each client + All therapists and clients wear face shields 7002 Lebanon, Suite 102 Frisco, TX 75034 469-408-4634 • F: 972-618-1051 walkeztalkez@gmail.com

walkeztalkez.com Rebecca L. Dana, MS, CCC/SLP, PC, SIPT-C

dfwchild.com / april 2021

kid culture / T R A V E L

take a drive to oklahoma and visit scenic beavers bend state park WORDS SYDNEY BLALOCK RITCHIE

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

AN YOU BELIEVE THE SCHOOL YEAR is almost over? That means it’s just about time to decompress. Perhaps a family road trip to a serene slice of nature is in order—and there’s a great spot just a few hours away from Dallas-Fort Worth, near Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Beavers Bend State Park sits in southwest part of the state, close to Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River. The Broken Bow area is filled with beautiful pine trees and

WHERE TO STAY There’s no shortage of lodging options around Beavers Bend. On the grounds of the state park, there’s the 40-room Lakeview Lodge— which, as the name suggests, has gorgeous lake views. There are also RV sites and tent campsites all over the park; there are 47 cabins in the park, too. (Book a lodge room, campsite or cabin online through travelok.com.) You can also find plenty of nearby cabins through Airbnb and VRBO, among other rental sites.

Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room for lunch. The Blue Rooster is a solid choice for fried chicken and seafood; its great patio and live music are a bonus. (Check online for live music schedules.) And you can’t go to Beavers Bend without hitting up Abendigo’s Grill & Patio. The slightly more upscale spot has some of the best steaks in town. It’s popular on the weekends, so reservations are recommended. Want something sweet for the kiddos and a pick-me-up for you? Okie Girls Coffee & Ice Cream will make both the kids and grown-ups happy. It gets pretty busy, so expect lines during peak times.

WHERE TO EAT While you’ll feel like you’re truly in the middle of nowhere in Beavers Bend, there are some great restaurants in the area. Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Swadley’s Foggy Bottom Kitchen (Sweet Cream Belgian Waffle, anyone?), then make your way to

WHAT TO DO What can you not do in Beavers Bend? There’s hiking (check out the David Boren Hiking Trail), biking, boating, fishing, canoeing and horseback riding, to name a few activities your family can enjoy. It’s still a little cold to swim, but if you go when it’s hot, take a dip in one of

crystal-clear water. Don’t you feel relaxed already?

ALL IMAGES: LORI DUCKWORTH/OKLAHOMA TOURISM

AROUND THE BEND

the local swimming holes. But beware—even in the hottest part of the summer, the water is a cool 60 degrees or so. If you’re feeling adventurous, Rugaru Adventures offers a zip line tour through the forest canopy, ending with a view over Broken Bow Lake. Want something a bit more—well, on the ground? Check out the BigFoot Speedway for go-karts or the Hochatown Petting Zoo. You can enjoy a ride on the Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides

train or see a real dinosaur skeleton at the Museum of the Red River. There’s also the Forest Heritage Center Museum if you’d like to see wood art, antique forestry tools and historical documents. WHEN TO GO Broken Bow makes a good spring getaway; many families flock there during the summer (that’s really peak visiting time, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a lot of peace and quiet on your trip). Fall is

a great choice too, since you can see the lovely changing leaves. Bottom line: There’s really not a bad time of year to visit Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park. 1 / Broken Bow Lake is a great place to kayak, boat, fish or swim. 2 / If you’re craving a burger, give Swadley’s Foggy Bottom Kitchen a try. 3 / Forest Heritage Center Museum is located in Beavers Bend State Park. 4 / Enjoy the scenery from above on a Rugaru Adventures zip line. 5 / Take a train trip with Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides. 6 / Dino fans will have a roaring good time at the Museum of the Red River.

BEAVERS BEND STATE PARK & LAKEVIEW LODGE travelok.com SWADLEY’S FOGGY BOTTOM KITCHEN foggybottomkitchens.com GRATEFUL HEAD PIZZA OVEN & TAP ROOM gratefulheadpizza.com THE BLUE ROOSTER facebook.com/blueroosterok ABENDIGO’S GRILL & PATIO abendigos.com OKIE GIRLS COFFEE & ICE CREAM okiegirlscoffee.com DAVID BOREN HIKING TRAIL travelok.com SWIMMING HOLES visitmccurtaincounty.com RUGARU ADVENTURES rugaruadventures.com BIGFOOT SPEEDWAY bigfootspeedway.com HOCHATOWN PETTING ZOO facebook.com/hochatownpettingzoo BEAVERS BEND DEPOT & TRAIL RIDES facebook.com/trainandstables MUSEUM OF THE RED RIVER museumoftheredriver.org FOREST HERITAGE CENTER MUSEUM forestry.ok.gov/fhc dfwchild.com / april 2021

It’s amazing. The power and beauty of horses. Every day they surprise you with their love and tenderness and desire to please. But horses do more. They teach. They bring out the best in us. And, in our children. WELCOME TO THE C J LEGACY RANCH A DIVISION OF THE ELTS FOUNDATION We strive to create an environment where children get hands-on, real-world experience. Our equine program is no exception. A life long love of horses brings different rewards at different stages of childhood, but aspiring to be the next Charlotte Dujardin can be a great motivational tool for feeding their enthusiasm and achieving their dreams. Our focus is you and your family. We recognize the need to provide a program that:

Award-winning Rider and Trainer...

ASHLEY WILDES!

• Develops core strength. • Improves coordination. • Encourages trust. • Exercises the mind. • Develops problem solving skills. • Increases socialization. • Creates time to relax. • Provides opportunities to compete.

Riders develop coordination, balance, fine motor skills, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and can improve posture and cardiovascular health. Working with horses is one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences a person can have, though it also takes a lot of hard work and dedication. By allowing your child to explore his or her interest in horseback riding, you are offering them the opportunity to learn valuable life skills while doing something they love. Riding helps support healthy physical and emotional growth, and it teaches kids to work together, support their friends, and take on more responsibility. We are a place of transformation for adults and children. With our horses and trainers we offer children a one-of-a-kind opportunity: to learn about horses while they learn about themselves. Sure, it’s about riding, but it is much more. It is about seeing the light in your child’s eyes when they see a horse respond to them and recognize them–as an individual. CJ’s Legacy Ranch is a spectacular world-class equestrian facility. Located just north of the DFW Metroplex in Bartonville, Texas. This property is situated on approximately 100 acres in the heart of North Texas horse country and is only 20 minutes from DFW airport.

FOR RIDING LESSONS, CALL US AT 469-970-8163! 2700 FM 407, Bartonville, TX 76226 cjslegacy.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEST

Summer EVER

Has there ever been a summer where kids needed camp more than this year? Childhood summer memories and camp go hand-in-hand. Explore these safe and fun camp options that will make this a summer to remember. Additional camps online at dfwchild.com/directory

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP

Our ABA therapy services will make you a happy camper! Summer Camp at The Behavior Exchange combines expert ABA therapy services with a fun curriculum of activities to bring about measurable improvements in children with autism and other developmental concerns. For more than 20 years, we’ve helped children communicate better, successfully participate in group activities, get ready for school, and develop their social skills — all in our uniquely colorful, caring learning environment. You’ll love the sweet results. Plus, our services are covered by most insurance. So call to reserve a spot today! Plano Hive: 6105 Windcom Ct. Suite 400. Plano, Texas 75093 Frisco Hive: 8501 Wade Blvd. Building 12. Frisco, Texas 75034 972-312-8733 • behaviorexchange.com

2 locations in Plano — ChallengerSchool.com Since 1963, Challenger School has helped children excel by employing proven, effective methods in a fun and structured environment that inspires them to achieve. The Challenger difference is evident from the moment you set foot on campus. Students bubble with enthusiasm as they make connections between their prior knowledge and new concepts. In order to facilitate setting crucial learning patterns, Challenger accepts students as young as 3 years. Challenger School has two new campuses in Plano. The Legacy and Independence Campuses will be hosting open houses on May 1st and May 22nd. Details at ChallengerSchool.com. 6700 Communications Pkwy., Plano, TX 75024 • 469-573-0077 10145 Independence Pkwy., Plano, TX 75025 • 469-642-2000 ChallengerSchool.com

dfwchild.com / april 2021

BEST SUMMER EVER / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Camp Clayton 2021: June 1 to August 6 At Clayton Youth Enrichment, we prepare children for great lives. Clayton offers traditional summer day camps in Fort Worth that are located on a school campus near you. Designed for ages 5–12, these full-day camps are perfect for your childcare and enrichment needs. Our kids will experience new friends and amazing activities each week—while practicing social emotional learning skills. Registration for our weekly themes is now open. Financial assistance and CCMS also available. Join the fun and invest in your child’s summer today! Multiple camp locations serving Keller ISD, Birdville ISD, Fort Worth ISD, and surrounding charter schools. 817-923-9888 • claytonyouth.org

SummerYou is a 10-week summer program facilitated by, and on the campus of, All Saints’ Episcopal School. Our 147-acre campus in west Fort Worth is the perfect habitat for exploration, adventure, and curiosity. With more than 200 camps to choose from, your child won’t be riding the boredom train. From building robots to throwing water balloons, starting a business to playing baseball, SummerYou has it all! With full-day options and affordable weekly camps for Ages 3–Grade 12 all on one world-class campus, parents can rest easy knowing the logistics, and their kids, are well taken care of. Bee active, Bee silly, Bee YOU! Registration for summer 2021 is open! Explore featured camps and dive into details at summeryou.org/fwcmag.

9700 Saints Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76108 817-560-5700, ext. 416 summeryou.org/fwcmag

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

Weekly Camps June 7 thru August 6 9am–1pm, Monday thru Friday 9 week-long sessions Choose from the following camp sessions: Farm Life, History Detectives, Water on the Farm, Outdoor Explorers, Farm Power, Keeping Cool on the Farm, Curator Camp. $225/camper, t-shirt included. Sorry, no after-care available. Ready to apply? Visit our Summer Camp page at heritagefarmstead.org/summer-camps and click on “Register” to begin the registration process. 1900 West 15th St., Plano, TX 75075 972-881-0140 heritagefarmstead.org/summer-camps

BEST SUMMER EVER / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPARK! offers a unique format of play time & creative instruction in our 11,000 square foot facility, filled with wild experiential exhibits, as well as massive art installations, all made for play and learning. Structured activities will be a collaborative experience, while others will be an individual make n’ take piece for the day, based on cool weekly themes.

Ready for a fun one-of-a-kind summer experience? Your child is invited to join Ursuline Academy of Dallas Summer Camps designed to stimulate creativity and curiosity, spark innovation, and encourage collaboration. Camps run weekly from June 7–July 30. Adventure Camps are offered in areas such as STEM, Musical Theater, and Leadership Skills. Some are exclusively for girls and others are open to all middle school students.

• Register for a day, a week or all nine weeks for the maximum experience. • Full class schedules can be found on our linked site. • 9A–4P Monday–Friday, with before/after care available. • Children must be entering 2nd grade Fall 2021.

Athletic Camps include Basketball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Rowing, and Volleyball for elementary and middle school girls.

1409 S. Lamar St., Ste. 004, Dallas, TX 75215 214-421-7727 • info@sparkdallas.org SPARKDallas.org

4900 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX 75229 469-232-1800 ursulinedallas.org/summerprograms

The Craft Guild

Teaching the Arts Since 1948

Get ready for a summer full of wonder. Carrollton’s Camp Wonder runs Monday, May 31 through Friday, August 13, excluding the week of July 5. Weekly camp is available for children ages 5–12. Camp is Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 6pm at Crosby Recreation Center. Each week has a different theme and offers trips to museums, aquariums, parks, and more.

Early Bird Pricing though April 19th.

1610 E. Crosby Rd., Carrollton, TX 75006 972-466-9810 cityofcarrollton.com/campwonder

3410 Midcourt Rd., Ste. 115, Carrollton, TX 75006 972-490-0303 craftguildofdallas.org

Young Artists Summer Camps Craft Guild of Dallas Weekly Classes for Ages 5 to 18 June 7th to August 13th Weeklong, half-day Camps: Pottery, glass arts, jewelry/metalsmithing, painting, drawing, bookbinding, mixed media, and more. Bring a sack lunch and stay all day.

The Summer Enrichment Camp offered by Dallas International School is a unique opportunity for campers ages 3 to 17 to be immersed in a multilingual environment while engaged in activities as diverse as chess, cooking, coding, tennis, origami and piano. Our campers can choose to attend morning, afternoon or full day camps from June 14 through July 23. 6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230 972-991-6379 camps@dallasinternationalschool.org dallasinternationalschool.org/campslanguages

dfwchild.com / april 2021

BEST SUMMER EVER / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Spending time in nature plays a vital role in child health and development! Register for a Heard Nature Camp and give your child the gift of a connection to nature. Heard Nature Camps and mini-camps feature opportunities to investigate the wonders of nature on our 289-acre sanctuary, encounter animals and more. Specialty camps offer opportunities to create art in nature, learn about animal care, go behind the scenes and more. 1 Nature Place, McKinney, TX 75069 972-562-5566 heardmuseum.org

Kids need camp! Join Kidventure, where for 26 years, we have provided the most dynamic and rewarding camps in Texas. Several Day Camp locations in DFW for children ages 3–5th grade. Opportunities for athletics, art, archery, rock climbing, camp games, learning, and so much more. All-adult teams, low ratios, and designed to build character and confidence. Kidventure’s Camps: Preston Hollow, Arlington, Frisco, St. Marks, St. Patrick, Kessler, Mansfield, Overnight Camp 214-303-9789 kidventure.com/dallas-summer-camp

Summer just got more awesome! The shores of Grapevine Lake can be your child’s next summer adventure—full of water activities such as fishing, tubing, and testing your skills on the WhoaZone. Land adventures include laser tag, archery, gaga ball, wilderness skills, and so much more! Dove Creek Day Camp offers your child the experience of overnight camp without the hassle of packing for a full week. Multi-child and multi-week discounts are available for families. We can’t wait to see your camper this summer for all the fun we have planned! Visit GoGrapevine.com/DoveCreek for dates, times and complete details.

3000 Meadowmere Lane Grapevine TX 76051 817-228-9104 GoGrapevine.com/DoveCreek

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

Explore literature in a fun and creative way! At NTPA, kids transform into their favorite storybook characters as they bring popular stories to life on stage. Popular themes like Descendants, Harry Potter, Little Women, Footloose and more! Taught by professional directors, actors, and singers who have worked everywhere from Broadway to L.A. Ages 5–18. New students get 50% off! Locations in Plano, Fairview, Frisco and Dallas 972-422-2575 NTPA.org/camps

Ballet Basics introduces young dancers, ages 3 to 6, to the fundamentals of ballet. The camp experience also includes crafts, story time and choreography correlating with the theme of the week. The Junior Intensive Program broadens the perspective of 7–14 year old students with a variety of classes including ballet, modern, jazz and musical theater. Dallas County: 214-377-8576 300 N. Coit Rd. Suite 231, Richardson, 75080 Fort Worth: 817-763-0207 1540 Mall Circle, Fort Worth 76116 texasballettheater.org/summer-programs

Want more camps? Check out our

CAMP DIRECTORY dfwchild.com/directory

dfwchild.com / april 2021

Safety first. A love of learning. Confidence for life! Three new Collin County centers are opening soon and there’s room for you! At KinderCare, health and safety have been—and always will be—our top priority. We’re taking extra precautions to protect our community so your child can learn, grow, and be exactly who they are. Here, you won’t just find a clean and safe place for your child, you’ll find peace of mind for yourself.

We’re enrolling in your neighborhood! McKinney KinderCare | 2901 Alma Rd, McKinney Prosper KinderCare | 1230 South Coit Rd, Prosper El Dorado Parkway KinderCare | 11880 Legacy Dr, Frisco

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

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

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

Other programs offered: • • • •

www.heroesdfw.org

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

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

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

Providing Lifelong Learning through Community Experiences

To learn more, give us a call at 833-905-3275

GREEN SCENE

people + places

LEFT // Spring is spectacular at the Dallas Arboretum. BELOW // A variety of flowers are in bloom at Fort Worth Botanic Garden.

FLOWER POWER tulips, bluebonnets, roses and other blooms across north texas

TULIPS: COURTESY OF THE DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN; BLOOMS: COURTESY OF THE FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

WORDS

EMILY YEARWOOD

PRING IS IN BLOOM, and along with warmer temperatures and more daylight, fields of flowers are one of the season’s gifts. Whether you’re looking for a family photo op or want to teach your kids about how things grow, you don’t have to go far from home to find stunning displays. Here are some of our favorite spots across Dallas-Fort Worth. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve // Plano Where 6701 W. Parker Road; plano.gov What you’ll see Located within Plano city limits, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is an undisturbed oasis. With three distinct ecoregions, the preserve presents a variety of natural beauty. The Blackland Prairie offers simply gorgeous wildflowers—bluebonnets, Indian blanket, winecup, horsemint and many types of yellow daisies. The flowering vines often attract bees,

butterflies and hummingbirds. We recommend trekking to the observation tower for a bird’s-eye view of the park. Admission Free Bluebonnet Trails // Ennis Where 204 W. Knox St.; bluebonnettrail.org What you’ll see If you’re looking for a sea of blue, visit Ennis Bluebonnet Trails. During April (most likely the second and third weeks of the month; check the website for updates on the status of the blooms), journey down 40 miles of mapped driving trails nestled in fields of bluebonnets and other wildflowers. This year’s Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival— featuring arts and crafts, food, live music and children’s activities, in addition to the beautiful flowers—is set for April 16–18. Admission There is no charge to drive the trails. The festival is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) and Fort Worth Botanic Garden // Fort Worth Where BRIT: 1700 University Drive; Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd.; fwbg.org What you’ll see Plan a two-stop adventure with your family at BRIT and Fort Worth Botanic Garden. A wonderland for plant lovers, the BRIT

features a wide array of wildflowers (including bluebonnets) throughout the campus. The oldest garden of its kind in Texas, Fort Worth Botanic Garden covers 111 acres, with 22 gardens displaying regional flora as well as some nonlocal beauties—such as more than 1,600 species of begonia and orchids. Admission The BRIT is free; $12 for visitors of all ages at the Botanical Garden. Cedar Hill State Park // Cedar Hill Where 1570 West FM 1382; tpwd. texas.gov/state-parks/cedar-hill What you’ll see At this park, two ecosystems intersect to provide a unique array of plants across 1,200 acres. The landscape includes brown-eyed Susan, American basket-flower, Barbara’s buttons and bluebonnets. For a perfect nature walk, we suggest stopping at the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center and the rolling hills near the park’s entrance on North Spine Road. Admission $7 for adults (day use); children under 12 are free. Coppell Nature Park // Coppell Where 367 Freeport Parkway; coppellnaturepark.org What you’ll see Located within Wagon Wheel Park in west Coppell, the 66-acre park offers a natural habitat for an array of wildlife and flora. dfwchild.com / april 2021

people + places / G R E E N

SCENE

Cultivating Young Minds & Characters At Learn & Grow our philosophy is simple: Pair the tailored attention of one-on-one tutoring with the stress-free environment of your own home. Success follows!

ABOVE // There are four large gardens to enjoy at the Rose Gardens of Farmers Branch. BELOW // The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildflower paradise.

www.lgtutoring.com Call to arrange for a complimentary consultation!

972-672-5037 214-642-1389

Part-time only. Looking for a long term commitment (one year minimum). We offer flexible schedule.

English • Math • Spanish Requires a bachelor’s degree and valid teaching certificate. Teaching experience preferred. All applicants should be committed to high expectations and achievement for all students. ©

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

Careers

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden // Dallas Where 8525 Garland Road; dallasarboretum.org What you’ll see Dubbed one of “The Best Places to See Stunning Spring Blooms Across the South” by Southern Living, the Arboretum is nothing short of showstopping. The pictureperfect Dallas Blooms display features over 500,000 blossoms, wine and beer pairings, live music, children’s activities and more. Expect over 100 varieties of spring bulbs, thousands of azaleas and hundreds of Japanese cherry trees as your family explores the grounds. While the Dallas Blooms exhibit wraps up April 11, there’s still plenty of horticultural beauty on the garden grounds. Over the course of the year, you’ll enjoy seasonal and perennial flowers and plants, Japanese maples, a lily pond, spacious lawns and much more. The Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden offers a variety of life and earth sciences programs and other familyfriendly activities. Admission $17 for adults; $14 for seniors; $12 for children ages 2–12; children under age 2 are free. Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge // Fort Worth Where 9601 Fossil Ridge Road; fwnaturecenter.org What you’ll see The center provides more than

20 miles of hikes over 3,621 acres, making it one of the largest city-owned nature centers in the country. It’s home to many wildflowers native to Texas, such as white rosinweed, Engelmann’s sage and milkweed, among others. Hiking trails range in difficulty, so there’s a trail for everyone. Do note that taking photos or walking in the wildflower patches is not permitted. (Selfies on the trail are OK!) Admission $6 for adults; $3 for seniors; $2 for children ages 3–12; children under 3 are free. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary // McKinney Where 1 Nature Place; heardmuseum.org What you’ll see The natural wonders at the Heard are endless, and they include bright blooms throughout the sanctuary. You’ll view Indian paintbrush, milkweeds, Texas Dutchman’s pipe and more wildflowers. Be sure to stop by the Native Texas Butterfly House & Garden when it opens at the end of May. And for an unusual spring flower, travel down to the Wood Duck Trail and find the Green Dragon along the stream beds. Admission $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and children age 3 and up; children 2 and under are free. The Rose Gardens of Farmers Branch // Farmers Branch Where Start at Gussie Field Watterworth Park, 2610 Valley View Lane, or the Farmers Branch Historical Park, 2540 Farmers Branch Lane; farmersbranchtx.gov What you’ll see Wake up and smell the roses in Farmers Branch, where you’ll find four large rose gardens. The butterfly garden and a bird sanctuary are perfect stops along the trail. Admission Free.

THE ROSE GARDENS OF FARMERS BRANCH: COURTESY OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH; WILDFLOWERS: COURTESY OF HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Throughout spring months, spot Texas Indian paintbrushes, bluebonnets, partridge peas, nodding thistles, firewheels and much more along the hiking trails. Make a stop at the Biodiversity Education Center and butterfly garden to round out your visit. Admission Free

SPRING FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY //

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPRING FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY

Shed those winter coats, grab the kids and check out all the season has to offer! DESCRIPTION

Amon Carter Museum of American Art cartermuseum.org 817/738-1933

It's almost time for our Virtual Spring Break at the Carter from March 16–19 on Facebook Live. Play games, make collaborative artworks, challenge your creativity, and explore Carter artworks from the comfort of your home. See ad on page 33.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing bep.gov 817/231-4000

While our public tours remain suspended you can still learn how money is made by visiting our website. For additional educational resources on Federal Reserve notes, visit uscurrency.gov. See ad on page 33.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden dallasarboretum.org 214/515-6523

Easter Weekend, 10am–2pm: Face painting, petting zoo, live bunny photos for purchase. Good Friday Concert, 11am and 2pm: Karate dance party. Saturday/Sunday, 2–4pm: Live music. See ad on page 5.

Fort Worth Stockyards fortworthstockyards.com

Stockyards Easter Egg Hunt: April 3, 12–4pm. Come and get free prize filled Easter eggs at all participating Stockyards Station and Mule Alley retailers.

Fort Worth Zoo fortworthzoo.org 917/759-7555

The Fort Worth Zoo is home to nearly 7,000 animals and many exciting attractions spread out over 64 acres. Plan your spring visit today! See ads on pages 12 and 35.

Gaylord Texan Resort gaylordtexan.com 817/778-1000

Gaylord Texan invites guests to Spring It On with our all-new Once Upon a Spring event, including an itinerary full of activities welcoming the spring season! Activities begin March 12, 2021, through May 16, 2021. See ad on back cover.

Irving Arts Center irvingartscenter.com 972/252-2787

Named “Best in the Burbs” by D Magazine, Irving Arts Center offers youth and family art experiences and classes throughout the year. Visit irvingartscenter.com for our virtual artmaking experiences and 360º gallery tours. See ad on page 11.

Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/712-7040

Day or night, the iconic Reunion Tower is the TOP spot for family fun! Enjoy breathtaking 360º views on an indoor/outdoor observation deck. Visit reuniontower.com for more information and upcoming special events. See ad on page 15.

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

Join us for the HV Arts Festival May 1, from 10am–6pm. Quality artists, demonstrations, live music, and kids activities will be part of the fun! See ad on page 11.

TravelOK travelok.com

Family fun abounds in Oklahoma, and it comes in many forms. From hands-on museums designed especially for children to top-rated zoos, there are plenty of familyfriendly attractions and activities. See ad on page 7.

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

Vetro is a state-of-the-art glassblowing studio and fine art gallery. Vetro offers opportunities for guests to assist in creating their own, unique art glass. Visit Vetro to shop handcrafted fine art glass. See ad on page 35.

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dfwchild.com / april 2021

confessions

MOM TRUTHS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN

ON MY BIRTHDAY, MY 3-YEAROLD TWINS ANNOUNCED THEY HAD A SURPRISE FOR ME. THEY LAUNCHED INTO ‘HAPPY BIRTHDAY’ WHILE WAVING AROUND A ‘CANDLE’—A TAMPON THEY FOUND UNDER MY SINK. THEY EVEN MADE ME PRETEND TO BLOW IT OUT!” —NADIA, WYLIE 50

april 2021 / dfwchild.com

CO M P I L E D BY E M I LY Y E A R W O O D

“I picked up my daughter from first grade, and she asked me if I could pack a brown paper bag in her backpack tomorrow. I asked her why. She says her crush sits next to her in class, and she needs the bag because she might hyperventilate looking at him!” —AMY, MANSFIELD

“My 21-month-old daughter decided she wanted to take a bath in her favorite pink leggings with hearts. Every time I tried taking them off, she refused. I put her in the bath, and she wasn’t happy because her leggings got wet, so we took them off. She insisted on holding them for the rest of the bath.”

“I decided to have a pool rendering done and priced. The vendor came and discussed it with us. My daughter asked, ‘What happens if we sell the home and the pool cracks with new owners?’ The vendor turned to me and said, ‘Did your little girl just ask about transferable warranty?’ I’m a realtor, by the way.”

WALKING INTO AN EVENT, I SAID, ‘OOH, WE GET A GOODIE BAG!’ MY 3-YEAR-OLD SON SAID, ‘MAMA, DO THEY HAVE BADDIE BAGS TOO?’”

—GOSIA, EULESS

—JENNIFER, PROSPER

—DACIA, DALLAS

Have a funny or heartwarming moment to share? We’d love to hear from you. Send it to editorial@dfwchild.com.

My 6-year-old daughter was talking under her breath, so I couldn’t understand what she said. I asked her to repeat it. She said, ‘It’s true. When people are older, they get hard of hearing.’”—SHREE, RICHARDSON

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Buying or selling a home does not need to be stressful. I can confidently lead you through the process, advocate for your best interests and lovingly guide you home. As a member of the Turner Fortune Real Estate team, I am backed by one of DFW's most successful boutique agencies, who place our Client's satisfaction above all else. Contact me today so I can guide you and your family to your next dream home.

ROB SUMNER REALTOR®

Turner Fortune Real Estate | 214-316-9500 | rsumner@turnerfortune.com

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Join in the magic at Gaylord Texan with whimsical décor and enchanting activities throughout the resort. Participate in an interactive storytelling show featuring your favorite fairy tales, and then Spring It On with other premium amenities like our water park, spa, and signature atriums. Now - May 16 Book now at GaylordTexan.com Designed with enhanced health and safety measures. Learn more at GaylordHotelsClean.com.