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Like our incredible patients, Children’s HealthSM Primary Care is growing. That means greater access to incredible care for all. From well-child exams to injuries and illnesses and more, we’re here to serve the Dallas community. Visit
MOM APPROVED
39 Mom-Approved Pediatricians
Pediatricians, nurse practitioners and pediatric specialists loved by our readers
CHARTER SCHOOLS
45 Charting New Territory
From language to theater, charter schools dive into unique specialties
FEATURE
22 Best for Families 2023
Our readers voted for their family favorites across Dallas-Fort Worth— here are the winners words Amanda Collins Bernier + Elizabeth Smith
NOTED
9 Ready & Waiting
The unique heartbreak of secondary infertility
12 By The Numbers / Childhood Obesity
A look at the issue and new treatment guidelines
14 Ask An Expert / Sound Advice
When a parent’s work travels upset the kids
REAL MOMS
17 Mom Next Door / Ivy Awino
Meet the Mavs’ Poizon Ivy, a DJ mom at the top of her game
20 Briefs / Mix Tape
Our Mom Next Door shares her local picks for food, fun and motherdaughter time
SPECIAL NEEDS
31 When Food Can Kill Food allergies can be gravely serious—and they’re on the rise
PLAYBOOK
51 Things To Do
26 Family fun events this April and May
64 Family Fun / Flower Power
6 top destinations for bluebonnets, tulips and other blossoms
68 Travel / Float Your Boat
Kid-friendly boat rides and tours around Texas
6 Hello / Full Bloom
Spring has sprung in DFW, and so has family fun
70 Looking Back
Legendary news anchor Tracy Rowlett’s words of wisdom—30 years later
Summer Camps provide children with daily hands-on investigations and garden explorations that will spark their imagination in STEM and nature.
Monday-Friday • 9am-3pm 1-6th Grade
THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER, the temperatures are getting warmer and the wildflowers are blooming. Hello spring in Texas!
If you’re feeling a little pep in your step these days, you’re not alone—sunshine can be a real mood booster. And from now until late June, we’ll have more and more of it each day, making this the perfect time to cure any cabin fever and get out and about with the kids. And there are plenty of opportunities for that—from farms and festivals where springtime blooms take center stage to boat tours and outdoor street fairs. The Playbook, on page 51, is brimming with ways to welcome this season with your family.
This time of year also offers so many reasons to celebrate. Easter, Passover, Earth Day and Memorial Day are all on the horizon. And of course, Mother’s Day is in there, too. We hope you take some time to celebrate yourself when May 14 rolls around—whether that means an all-out family adventure or doing absolutely nothing.
But in this issue, we take a look at some lesser-known observances this time of year. Infertility Awareness Week is the last week of April. You may be surprised to know that infertility effects many couples who are already parents—an estimated 3 million women in the U.S. struggle with secondary infertility. And it’s more painful than one might think. We explore the unique emotions that come with struggling to conceive again on page 9.
And May is Food Allergy Awareness Month. Food allergies are staggeringly on the rise among youth; if you’re not impacted directly, chances are you know someone is. Statistically, two kids in every class have a food allergy. On page 31, local families share what it’s like to live when food can be deadly, and experts offer guidance and the latest on up-and-coming treatments.
Finally, we reveal the winners of our Best for Families 2023. You’ll want to refer to the list if you’re having a baby, planning a birthday party, looking for childcare—basically being a parent. The BFF list, as we like to call it, is a nod to the very best our community has to offer and, we hope, a go-to guide for raising your family in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Cheers to spring!
summer heats up with
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DFWChild is published bimonthly by Lauren Publications, Inc. DFWChild is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. Additional or back copies are available for $2 per copy at the offices of Lauren Publications, Inc. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. DFWChild is ©2023 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.
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ERIN HAYES BURT
WHEN KRISTA BUNCH OF ROCKWALL got remarried, she knew they would start trying to have a baby right away. She expected it would happen quickly— after all, she was already a mom and had easily gotten pregnant the first time around. So right away she ordered a few things to surprise her husband and son with when she got that positive pregnancy test: a “Big Brother” T-shirt, size 3T, and a spoon with a pregnancy message on it to slip into her husband’s soup or chili.
But six years, innumerable doctor’s appointments, and one embryo transfer later, baby number two was hardly quick—or a surprise. “By the time it actually happened, my son had long outgrown the shirt and my husband absolutely knew that we were expecting,” she says.
It’s one of the many losses that women grieve when going through secondary infertility.
For an estimated 3 million women in the U.S., what happened so easily the first time is a struggle the next time around. For many of these women, secondary infertility, or the inability to become pregnant or carry a baby to term after previously giving birth to a baby, can come as a shock—they had a baby once, why wouldn’t they be able to have another? The struggle can come with its own unique emotional challenges.
There are many reasons that people can have trouble conceiving a second baby, says Dr. Rebecca Chilvers, an OB-GYN with Fertility Specialists of Texas in Frisco. Hormonal issues such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, low sperm count, age, endometriosis, uterine conditions, and lifestyle factors all play a part in fertility, and those parts can change over time. “The most common thing is that their fertility was waning before the first pregnancy, and when they go to get pregnant with their second baby, things were different,” Chilvers says.
But most women don’t know that when they meet their partner and start imagining their future lives together, including how many children they want to have and how far apart they will be. And it can be devastating when those dreams of their future family don’t play out the way they thought they would.
think about who in their life will be supportive—and who might have strong opinions that don’t really matter but definitely hurt— and be selective before sharing. It’s great when the folks closest to you line up with being the most supportive, but that’s not always the case, she says.
Relationship issues can arise in secondary infertility, too. Partners may differ in how they feel about the process, even when and if to escalate to the next steps, says Morehead. “The two biggest stressors for any relationship are sex and money, and infertility hits both of those. There are even morality issues that are brought up,” she says.
For Bunch and her husband, fertility became a touchy topic to broach. “Originally when we were talking, I was like, ‘what if we do need a sperm donor?’” she says. “And my husband was very much against that,” Bunch continued.
These four books for ages 3-9 can help you explain infertility and the different ways families are made in an age-appropriate manner.
• Mommy, Did I Grow in Your Tummy? Where Some Babies Come From, by Elaine
R. Gordon• I’m Very Ferris: A Child’s Story About In Vitro Fertilization, by Tess Kossow
“It’s called ambiguous loss,” says Emily Morehead, a therapist in Allen who specializes in working with individuals and couples who are going through fertility struggles. “You’re not grieving something, you’re grieving the idea of it.” She says guilt, shame and grief are all part of what couples deal with. “I think that’s the biggest part of this type of counseling is acknowledgement of the grief process…feeling like their body failed them, feeling like it’s their fault.”
• Let Me Explain: A Story About Donor Insemination, by Jane T. Schnitter, Joanne Bowring
• Spectacular You: An IVF Love Story, by Kate Pache
Counselors who specialize in infertility can help couples navigate the issues that come up. “It’s a safe place for both partners to talk about how they are feeling with a guide for those trickier conversations around money and sex without guilt,” says Morehead.
It’s not uncommon for parents dealing with secondary infertility to feel guilty for not giving their child a sibling—and also for devoting time and focus away from that child. Sometimes, like Bunch’s son, the child may be old enough to wonder about all the acronyms Mom and Dad are throwing around. When the questions come, Morehead says, answering in an age-appropriate way is the best strategy.
“If a child has a lot of questions, it’s good to answer them honestly. There are a lot of good books about all different types of journeys to building a family,” she explains.
It doesn’t help when interactions with friends, family or strangers insinuate this, too. Comments like, “You just need to quit worrying about it!” or suggesting diet and lifestyle changes aren’t helpful. While dealing with infertility, Morehead advises couples
Likewise, if a child walks in on a stressful moment or sees Mom crying, it can actually be a great teaching moment. “It’s OK to model sadness, to get frustrated and then apologize to our partner. That’s really good for kids to see.”
EARLIER THIS YEAR, THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS laid out aggressive new guidelines to treat childhood obesity. These guidelines—which recommend physicians consider weight loss medication for children as young as 12 and bariatric surgery for adolescents as young as 13—have been controversial, with some experts saying they are too focused on body image and could lead to shame, stigma or eating disorders.
Weight is a sensitive topic, but it’s important to address. Children who have obesity—defined as having a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile —are more likely to experience health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It can also lead to poor self-esteem and depression. Here’s a look at the numbers beyond the scale.
20%
The obesity rate for children ages 10–17 in Texas
60 minutes
THE AMOUNT OF PLAY PER DAY THE AAP RECOMMENDS TO REDUCE A SEDENTARY LIFESTYLE
2
The age at which the AAP recommends treatment could start for children with obesity
6 hours
The average time per day children ages 8–10 spend using a screen
26 HOURS
The AAP’s new recommendation for family-based behavioral and lifestyle treatment for obese children
Texas’ ranking for childhood obesity rates in the U.S. 10TH
THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF ADS KIDS AND TEENS SEE DAILY ON TV FOR FAST FOOD, SUGARY DRINKS, CANDY AND UNHEALTHY SNACKS
EDITED BY ALEXIS PATTERSON
THE EXPERT:
Courtney Guhl Huckabay Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor // Registered Play Therapist Supervisor Terra Therapies, terratherapiestx.com
DFWChild Mom Approved
Q: “I took a job that requires me to travel a lot. Ever since, two of my children won’t talk to me or answer phone calls. How do I deal with this?”
—Kevin, Joshua A: Family dynamics are different for each individual home. Every relationship is unique; however, it’s normal to have a bumpy transition when change arises in the family structure or routine. Parents’ work is one of the unavoidable responsibilities that many families face, and when the work schedule changes, it can affect the entire family system.
Common responses from a child in this particular situation may include creating distance from a parent or sibling, becoming more clingy or needy, or asking lots of questions. Typically, ignoring phone calls and giving a parent the silent treatment is a behavioral response to a feeling of sadness, hurt or disapproval. So what can parents do to respond when the child is adapting to the new routine?
For younger children, their understanding and perception is more concrete. Creating a calendar or schedule for the child to see when the parent is expected to leave and return from work travel can be helpful. Also, creating special routines surrounding your work travel can engage the child in a better transition for time away from mom or dad. For example,
having a special family dinner or spending quality one-on-one time before or after work travel may help. During your trip, scheduling a phone call for your younger child may help him or her feel more secure, since they’ll have a routine time to connect with you.
For older children and adolescents, change can be equally challenging. If your child has a cell phone, you can simply text and continue to offer open communication, even if your child is refusing to connect with you. Though it may take time to warm up to the new routine, knowing that travel does not mean absence can have a huge impact in the long run.
Creating intentional time with your older child is important when you are home. Make time to check in about their week. When you ask about friends and activities, it will show your child that you still care about them and their lives, even when you are away on business.
Talking about your own feelings of being away or missing family time when you travel can also open the conversation with children (of all ages) about how they feel. Open, flowing communication from the parent when a child refuses to communicate can help a child to open up about their feelings and perspective. Avoid shaming or scolding your child when they refuse to take a phone call or FaceTime; instead, ask open-ended questions and validate their feelings if and when they share them with you.
Creating a connection with your child is the end goal when navigating family changes together. Attempt to find new traditions and routines around work travel to stay connected. Ask your child for input on what he or she needs to feel connected, too. Their ideas may surprise you.
“I can actually sing!”
WHERE TO CONNECT @ivyawino on Instagram
WHEN WE CAUGHT UP WITH IVY AWINO, known to thousands of fans as DJ Poizon Ivy, she was lounging in a fluffy white robe, enjoying a leisurely breakfast in a hotel room in Austin. “I’m taking some time away from the crazy grind to just be,” she said with a long exhale.
And grind she does. Awino was in Austin for two weekend DJing gigs, then heading home to Dallas to host the Mavericks and Golden State Warriors game
in front of 20,000 spectators and get back to her main job—mom.
Born in Kenya, Awino moved to Dallas when she was 9 years old. Her lifelong love of music led to her career as a DJ, and in 2016 she became the Dallas Mavericks’ first female team DJ in franchise history. She’s only the second female DJ in the NBA, and the first-ever Black woman.
For six seasons she provided the soundtrack to games at the American Airlines Center. Now she
➽ ABOVE // Though she’s racked up a host of recognitions, Ivy Awino says her life’s greatest honor is being a mom.
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Historical interpreters in 1800s style clothing any time we ' re open Museum store full of local and handmade items
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serves as the Mavs’ in-arena host—the face and voice of the team—often with her 10-year-old daughter, Kyani, by her side.
DFWCHILD: TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND IN MUSIC AND HOW THAT LED TO DJING?
IVY AWINO: As a people and culture, East Africans celebrate life a lot and music has always been an integral part of most things we do. It’s been part of my life as long as I can remember. When I was 5, my grandmother bought me a 12-key baby grand piano and that was my introduction to theory and playing music.
I was in orchestra in middle school and played a lot of instruments. In high school, I explored a lot of music and was in gospel choir. I picked up DJing in college when I had a show for the college radio station. I wanted to integrate music, and I wanted to mix it and talk in between it, so I had to learn how to DJ. The turntables were just another instrument for me to master.
DFWCHILD: WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE MAVERICKS?
IA: Basketball is also rooted in my childhood. My uncles were really big NBA fans, so I grew up watching the game. But when I say watching the game, I mean VHS tapes that they brought back from Europe when they traveled.
I became a Dallas Mavericks ball kid when I was 12. I spent 6 years in that building wiping floors, rebounding balls and doing all the various tasks assigned to ball kids until I moved away for college.
D FWCHILD: DOES KYANI GO TO GAMES WITH YOU?
IA: She does a lot. She’s grown up in that space and she’s quite the helper. She knows how to get my script and mic me up. It feels good to have an employer that is receptive to me mothering at work. I understand there are some spaces you can’t, but I’m really open to the concept of more places allowing mothers to do that. I don’t see why the two need to be mutually exclusive. I think for some of us, our parents going to work was such a mystery. Work was this place that kids didn’t go. So, I’m really grateful that I can take her and she can see me in action.
DFWCHILD: YOU’VE SHATTERED SO MANY GLASS CEILINGS. WHAT DO YOU HOPE KYANI TAKES AWAY FROM THAT?
IA: I hope that my life is normal to her. And I hope that her generation will continue to eradicate all these firsts because, don’t get me wrong, they’re an honor, but they’re also an indicator that we’re behind. They’re an indicator that there’s still a lot of work to be done, so I hope she commits to the cause.
I fear that sometimes people impose the parent’s life and story on their children, and I never want her to feel like she has to be me. But I hope sees the passion and dedication that I give, and that it is normal for her to pursue her passions no matter what they are, even if they haven’t been done before. More than anything, I want her to love what she does, because I do.
DFWCHILD: WHAT’S YOUR PARENTING PHILOSOPHY?
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Dr. Kary JohnsonAfter college, I connected with [WNBA star] Skylar Diggins-Smith. She ran a basketball camp and was gracious enough to let me be her tour DJ. I always tell this story because I say my opportunities were given to me by a woman who allowed me to stand on her shoulders. That led to DJing for the Dallas Wings, and then I reached out to the Mavs to see if there were any opportunities to grow there. At the time they did have a DJ but said if anything came up, they’d let me know. And lo and behold that position did open, and I was top of mind.
IA: Essentially you are the soundtrack to the game, playing all the sound effects you hear—the defense chants, the beats in the background. I was in charge of all the sonic cues from the time the doors opened to the time you left. From pre-game music to ingame sounds, everything you heard I curated and triggered. It’s huge; if you take away the sonic element from sports, what do you have? Those are the people that make sure you have a lot of fun when you’re at a game.
IA: I encourage her to respectfully challenge me and tell me how she feels, though obviously time, space and tone are important. I think sometimes as a parent you get frustrated and you’re like ‘just because I said so!’ I try to minimize those moments because I think that’s when you slowly chip and diminish their self-advocacy muscle. You’re teaching them to be complacent and just do as their told.
And I don’t hide her away from my hard days. If she happens to be in the path of a bad day, I bring her in and I say, ‘this is what’s going on. Mommy’s a little frustrated and earlier when I said this or that it wasn’t you, it was me.” I apologize to my kid when I need to. I think that’s the best way to teach accountability.
IA: It’s the purest form of love one will ever experience; loving something so fiercely and so selflessly. I love how selfless motherhood makes me feel. It’s a true representation of what I think life is about, which is living for others.
I’m naturally a routine-oriented person; a creature of habit. So, I always walk the same trajectory before a Mavs’ game. I say hi to the same people, do all the same things. There’s no crazy ritual,
follow my normal
I’m very much into my holistic wellness journey and always have an essential oil diffuser going. I even have a travel one. They bring me down at night and wake me up in the morning—lavender oil to sleep, peppermint oil and orange oil to wake up. Lately I’m into Aura Cacia oils, which I get at Whole Foods.
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VAL’S CHEESECAKES // 2820 Greenville Ave., Dallas; 469/776-8155; valscheesecakes.com
Kyani and I do everything together, but we especially love our trips to the nail shop. She can’t have colored nail polish for school, so she gets hers buffed and shined. We like MiniLuxe because it’s women-owned and they focus on clean products and services. I love their whole mantra of the “mini moment.”
I love the Dallas Arboretum in the spring. It’s just serenity. It’s a reminder of how the Earth replenishes itself, and it’s sort of symbolic to me. I also love Trinity Groves and the Bishop Arts District, which are really being developed as family spaces. Finding things for kids to do at a reasonable cost is key and I’m grateful that the city of Dallas is putting an effort into creating and curating safe, fun things for families in these areas.
DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN // 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas; 214/515-6615; dallasarboretum.org
When you have a kid who’s a picky eater and you find something they like, you stick with it. One of the things I discovered Kyani loves is cheesecake, and Val’s Cheesecakes in Dallas is her spot spot.
but on a day that I wouldn’t
habits, something would be wrong.
From high-risk pregnancy care, family-centered rooms and a Level III NICU, to breastfeeding support and a celebratory meal, Texas Health Fort Worth is honored to be recognized for our maternity services. It’s another reason why more families choose Texas Health to welcome their babies each year than any other health system in North Texas. So when you’re ready to become a mom, we’ll be ready to care for you .
TexasHealth.org/FWBaby
Growing families deserve the best again and again.
Dallas-Fort Worth is a pretty great place to raise a family. From water parks and western experiences to museums and entertainment venues, the region is chock-full of places to go and things to do. Plus, there are plenty of options for the care and services that families need.
Every year we highlight the best our community has to offer, according to the experts—our readers. Thousands of moms and dads weigh in on their local favorites, from family fun attractions and party places to services and necessities including child care centers and hospitals. This 2023 Best for Families list is a nod to the finest in DFW—and your go-to guide for raising your crew here.
Perot Museum of Nature & Science
Not only is the Perot one of the most architecturally stunning buildings in downtown, but there’s a surprise on the lower level—the Moody Family Children’s Museum, an exhibit hall designed for little hands 5 and younger. Need a date night? Thursdays on Tap for 21 and up return this April.
2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, 214/428-5555; perotmuseum.org
RUNNER-UP: Fort Worth Museum of Science & History
Fort Worth Zoo
Only here can you pet the friendly farm animals in the Toyota Children’s Ranch, watch the Asian elephants soak in their pool, and then let the kids cool themselves off at Safari Splash, the zoo’s own water playground for humans. Come with your swimsuits to make your trip a full day when Safari Splash reopens for the season this April.
1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, 817/759-7555; fortworthzoo.org
RUNNER-UP: Dallas Zoo
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
Locals know that the Dallas Arboretum, overlooking White Rock Lake, is the destination du jour for anyone needing a breath of fresh air and a casual walk among the trim lawns and blooming flowers. But what really makes it the cream of the flower crop is the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, with interactive galleries made to educate and inspire your littles.
8525 Garland Road, Dallas, 214/515-6615; dallasarboretum.org
RUNNER-UP: Fort Worth Botanical Garden/Botanical Research Institute of Texas
BEST WILD WEST EXPERIENCE
Fort Worth Stockyards
OK, we won’t say “You’re not a true Texan until” you’ve gotten lost in the Cattlepen Maze or cheered on bull riders from inside Cowtown Coliseum or watched the twice-daily longhorn cattle drives down the cobblestone streets—but you should really get there as fast as you can.
140 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth, 817/625-9715; fortworthstockyards.com
RUNNER-UP: Mesquite Rodeo
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
The era before your first visit to Medieval Times? We’ll call that the “Dark Ages.” Because everyone who’s ever cheered on their section’s knight knows this attraction is much more than a themed restaurant. Eating a four-course meal with your hands is only part of the fun, but the experience of witnessing live sword fighting and jousting inside a castle is one for the books.
2021 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, 469/342-5555; medievaltimes.com
RUNNER-UP: Rainforest Café
Grapevine Mills
Even if you have nothing on your shopping list, locals and tourists alike recognize Grapevine Mills as a great destination for its multiple attractions, ranging from Rainforest Café, Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life Aquarium and Peppa Pig World of Play for preschoolers to—coming soon—Meow Wolf. This exhibition of colorful, maximalist art will be the first permanent location in Texas when it opens this summer.
3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, 972/724 4900; simon. com/grapevine-mills
RUNNER-UP: NorthPark Center
This ultimate indoor play experience features Lego-themed attractions (including an interactive DFW cityscape made of 1.5 million bricks), rides and a 4D cinema. There’s even an obstacle course to navigate and Lego-building challenges to take on. Party packages include pizza, drinks and unique activities like a meet-and-greet with a Master Model Builder or a visit from the mascot.
3000 Grapevine Mill Parkway, Grapevine, 469/444-3050; legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ dallas-fw
RUNNER-UP: Play Street Museum
BEST WATER PARK FOR FAMILIES
Great Wolf Lodge
Why wait on summer when it’s always swim season at this indoor water park and resort hotel. Overnight guests, or those with a full day or half day pass, are welcome year-round to enjoy the water park’s aquatic treehouse, toddler splash areas and wild rides. This woodlands-
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themed resort is packed with other attractions, too, like a Build-A-Bear Workshop and an outdoor ropes course.
100 Great Wolf Drive, Grapevine, 817/488-6510; greatwolf.com/grapevine
RUNNER-UP: Hawaiian Falls Waterparks
BEST PARTY VENUE FOR SPORTS
Topgolf
Whether they’ve never held a club before or they’re the next Tiger Woods, kids of all ages enjoy this high-tech yet approachable take on the game of golf. The venue features climatecontrolled hitting bays and a restaurant menu fit for foodies, including everything from chicken wings to injectable donut
holes. All-inclusive party packages include game play, food and drinks.
Multiple locations; topgolf.com
RUNNER-UP: The Star, Frisco
Main Event
From laser tag to arcade games to a professional-level bowling alley, fun and games are the main ingredients in a Main Event bash. Offering a dedicated space to celebrate and a lane-side feast with kid-friendly fare like pizza, sliders and hot dogs, it’s the perfect spot to party. Tailored packages can include balloon bouquets, custom digital invitations, virtual reality experiences and even a top-your-own pancake station. Multiple locations; mainevent.com
RUNNER-UP: Urban Air Adventure Park
BEST BIRTHING CENTER
Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center
With home-like birthing suites featuring deep-water immersion tubs for labor and water births, full kitchens and private bathrooms, Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center has been our readers’ pick eight years in a
row. Located in the heart of the medical district, just two blocks from Harris Methodist Fort Worth, it is the only birthing center in Fort Worth to offer comprehensive Certified NurseMidwifery care for women who desire an out-of-hospital birthing experience.
622 Hemphill St., Fort Worth, 817/878-2737; fwbirthcenter.com
RUNNER-UP: Plano Birth Place
BEST SLEEP SPECIALIST Sweet Dreams Infant Care
Sleep is a necessity, not a luxury. These highly trained sleep specialists have been rescuing sleepdeprived families in DFW for over a decade. They come to you and use several different methods
Primrose Schools
With 64 schools across DFW, Primrose Schools is a leader in providing premier early education and care to children and families. Their Balanced Learning approach combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion. Each school is independently owned and operated by franchise owners who partner with parents to help children build a foundation for future learning.
Multiple locations; primroseschools.com
RUNNER-UP: Xplor Preschools
in overnight sleep training to find the best fit for each family. Their professional team also includes nurses, postpartum doulas, newborn care specialists and certified lactation counselors.
Dallas-Fort Worth area, 708/4292229; sweetdreamsinfantcare.com
RUNNER-UP: Kaley Medina, Live, Love, Sleep
BEST HOSPITAL TO HAVE A BABY, DALLAS COUNTY Medical City Dallas
With hotel-style rooms featuring an entertainment center, spacious bathroom and in-room sleeping accommodations for support partners, Medical City has earned our readers’ votes three years in a row. Upgraded suites provide a separate living area, spa-like bathroom and Tempur-Pedic beds for partners. The hospital offers childbirth classes, options for delivery methods and pain relief and 24/7 lactation support. And it’s the only North Texas hospital with a full-service children’s hospital, Level IV maternal designation, Level IV NICU and an adult hospital on the same campus.
7777 Forest Lane, Dallas, 972/5667000; medicalcityhospital.com
RUNNER-UP: Baylor University Medical Center
Medical City Lewisville offers complete labor and delivery services in a safe and inclusive environment, supporting childbirth preferences and unique and diverse families. Luxury postpartum suites include a private area for mom, lavish bathroom, living area, snack-stocked kitchenette and a sofa bed for overnight guests. After delivery, moms enjoy a gourmet meal. Patients have access to award-winning childbirth classes, high-risk pregnancy services, breastfeeding support, on-site lactation consulting, cord blood donation and more. The hospital also has a Level III NICU.
500 W. Main St., Lewisville, 469/370-2000; medicalcitylewisville.com
RUNNER-UP: Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton
BEST HOSPITAL TO HAVE A BABY, TARRANT COUNTY
Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth
Delivering more than 3,000 babies each year, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort
Worth is a Level IV maternal care facility offering a Level III NICU, dedicated Obstetrics Emergency Room, and a highrisk and antepartum program. An in-house midwife is available 24/7, giving women even more choices in their care. After delivery, parents and babies bond in their own private maternity suite complete with flat-screen TV, a full-size bathroom and a comfy, convertible couch. The hospital also offers childbirth classes and breastfeeding support.
1301 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Worth, 817/2502000; texashealth.org
RUNNER-UP: Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center
BEST HOSPITAL TO HAVE A BABY, COLLIN COUNTY Medical City Plano
Medical City Plano has been our readers’ pick five years in a row. Their standard postpartum suites feel more like a hotel than a hospital, and their upgraded suites offer memory foam beds, a luxury bath, separate lounge areas and
a kitchenette for guests. From an epidural to nitrous oxide or aromatherapy, they offer various pain relief options, and accommodate preferred delivery methods. After delivery, moms celebrate with a chef-prepared, gourmet meal. Medical City Plano also offers
award-winning childbirth classes, on-site breastfeeding and lactation support and a Level III NICU. 3901 W. 15th St., Plano, 972/5966800; medicalcityplano.com
RUNNER-UP: Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano
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If you think your child might have a developmental delay, the last thing you want to do is wait for answers – but unfortunately, waiting is part of the process in many cases. When it comes to autism evaluations, kids are waiting months to years to be seen in-person, which has parents feeling helpless and an army of clinicians and physicians eager to solve this problem. This is a national and global crisis because the longer kids wait to get an evaluation, the longer they could wait to get necessary services. A virtual clinic for autism diagnostic evaluations called As You Are was created as a solution to combat geographic barriers and make care more accessible and equitable.
1 in 44 US CHILDREN
Have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the US.
9.5% of US CHILDREN
Will screen at risk for ASD, requiring addtional evaluation.
3 YEAR WAIT
Average wait from patient’s initial concern to a final diagnosis.
• Take an autism screener: It is always best to speak with your pediatrician if you have developmental concerns. And, if you don’t want to wait for your next wellchild appointment, families can complete a free screener to determine if further assessment is warranted.
• Consider a virtual evaluation: Clinics like As You Are are now able to provide evidence-based autism diagnostic evaluations virtually to families within the comfort of their own home, helping to reduce wait times.
• Explore local resources: While some services may only be available after a diagnosis is made, learning about what areas of support are available and most relevant to your child’s current needs can help set you and your family up for success.
• Look into intervention services: Request an early intervention evaluation from the state or school system, so your child can begin to receive school-based services.
• Pull records together: Gather any relevant records and feedback from other people to help present a full picture for the evaluation. asyouare.com
1) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Data & Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder, March 2, 2022 2) Azad, G.F., Singh, V., Kalb, L. et al. Child and Family Characteristics that Predict Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialty Clinic Appointment Attendance and Alignment with Providers. J Autism Dev Disord 49, 3060–3072 (2019). 3) Ning M, Daniels J, Schwartz J, Dunlap K, Washington P, Kalantarian H, et al. Identification and Quantification of Gaps in Access to Autism Resources in the United States: An Infodemiological Study. Journal of medical Internet research. 2019;21(7):e13094. Scan QR code to learn more.In her 12 short years of life, it’s a term that Charlotte Barton could never identify with. For Charlotte, food could kill.
Charlotte was among the 1 in 13 children in the U.S. with food allergies, a figure that’s steadily climbing. Staggeringly, the number of people with food allergies in America has doubled each of the last two decades. It’s a rising epidemic, and for some children, it’s deadly.
Though she lived with a host of allergies that impacted all facets of life, Charlotte was in many ways a typical 12-year-old. The fifth born in a crew of seven children, she was the baby girl of the family. Growing up, she mothered her two little brothers and shared a room with her big sister. As a little girl, she was a Girl Scout and had an affinity for American Girl dolls and Shopkins. As a tween she loved shopping for makeup and trinkets and wore sweatpants and sweatshirts, even when it was 80 degrees. She was bubbly and outgoing—“sunshine in a soul,” as her mom says—with big brown eyes and long, dark curls.
Last September, just as she was beginning the seventh grade, Charlotte sat in class and reached into a bag of mixed candies from a friend. She confused a SweeTART with a Skittle—something that for most kids, would be insignificant, but for Charlotte, would be lethal. One candy was made with egg whites, and she was deathly allergic. Charlotte used her EpiPen, the drug she always carried with her, after that accidental ingestion at school. But the next day she suffered a severe anaphylactic episode and was rushed to the emergency room. Despite every lifesaving effort, she died six days later.
The loss has enveloped the Barton family, of Fort Worth, in unspeakable grief. But along with mourning, they live with a lingering sense of disbelief.
“The fact this even happened to her after being so very careful for so very long, it’s hard to wrap our head around,” says Charlotte’s mom, Portia Barton. “One day it was walking, talking Charlotte, and the next it was ‘I can’t breathe, and this is the last thing I’m ever going to say to you.’”
About 150 to 200 people die per year in the U.S. from food-related allergies, according to the CDC. And every three minutes, a food allergy reaction sends someone to the emergency room.
“Any food allergy can be life-threatening,” says Dr. Nana Mireku, a board-certified pediatric allergist at TexasAllergyMD in McKinney. “With all the wrong factors in place, they can be life-threatening at any time.”
Eight foods are responsible for around 90% of food allergies: dairy, egg, peanut, tree nut, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. And as of January 2023, sesame joined the list of major food allergens defined by law, meaning foods containing sesame are subject to specific food allergen regulatory requirements, including labeling and manufacturing.
In a food allergy, the immune system has an abnormal response to a harmless food protein; it overreacts, triggering symptoms such as digestive problems, hives or swollen airways. In some people, a food allergy can cause severe symptoms or a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis.
Why is this happening more and more often? And why do these allergies strike mostly children?
Food allergies are on the rise, putting more kids at risk
WORDS AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER
“We really don’t have a good answer,” says Dr. Aakash Goyal, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Children’s Health in Dallas. One theory, he says, is hygiene hypothesis, or the idea that childhood exposure to certain germs helps the immune system develop, and as our environment becomes “cleaner,” this lack of exposure may contribute to immune deficiencies. Another thought is that late introduction of certain foods may predispose children to allergies. Experts once thought the best way to fight allergies—particularly peanut allergy, the leading cause of food allergy death in the U.S.—was to avoid allergens in the first years of life. So in 2000, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended delaying the introduction of certain allergens. “It was milk at 1, eggs at 2, peanuts and tree nuts at 3 to 4 years,” says Mireku. But this may have played a part in the rise in food allergies, as later studies found that earlier introduction might reduce the risk for developing them. “And so now we’re trying to swing the pendulum the other direction to decrease this epidemic that we’re experiencing,” says Mireku.
Parents might be wary of giving highly allergenic foods to their baby, but the AAP’s most recent guidelines encourage early introduction of foods like peanuts, fish and milk. In general, the AAP says that “these foods can be added to the diet early, just like foods that are not common allergens, like rice, fruits or vegetables.”
you ingest a peanut and you’re allergic to it, and your skin is affected with hives and you’re vomiting—your gut is affected,” she explains. “That’s two organ systems.”
In this case, a child needs an EpiPen if they have one, and if not, to be seen by a doctor “urgently,” says Mireku.
For nonurgent reactions, parents should talk to their pediatrician. It’s important to keep track of any type of reaction and what food was consumed in order to help doctors suss out potential allergies.
ABOUT 150 TO 200 PEOPLE DIE PER YEAR IN THE U.S. FROM FOODRELATED ALLERGIES, ACCORDING TO THE CDC. AND EVERY THREE MINUTES, A FOOD ALLERGY REACTION SENDS SOMEONE TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM.
“Whenever we see a patient with a potential food allergy, the most important thing is history. What did you ingest? What happened after that? Within what timeframe? What were your symptoms?” says Goyal. “Then we go a little bit more—did you ingest anything else? Because no food is ingested by itself. If you are eating nuts or egg bites, yes, it’s very easy; but when you’re eating something that has many ingredients, it can be hard to piece out.”
Pediatricians will likely refer patients to an allergist, who can confirm food allergies through skin or blood tests. Oral food challenges, in which a food is eaten slowly, in gradually increasing amounts, under medical supervision, can also help doctors confirm or rule out allergies.
Signs of an allergic reaction typically happen right away, from within minutes to up to two hours. “It’s immediate, it’s aggressive. Itching and hives is usually a component, but it doesn’t have to be,” says Mireku. Other symptoms could include lip swelling, vomiting, coughing, wheezing, sneezing, diarrhea and throat tightness. “Everybody is little bit different,” says Mireku, “and it’s not always predictable.”
For Erika Powell, the signs were hard to miss. The mom of three from Azle remembers giving her second son, Apollo, some sweet potato when he 6 months old, and right away, knowing something wasn’t right. “He just flared up,” she recalls. “He got really red hives. That was the start of it.”
Mireku says parents need to be particularly aware of signs of anaphylaxis, a reaction that involves two or more body systems. “So say
Birthday parties, class celebrations, cookies with Santa—for a kid with food allergies, these childhood joys can be isolating and even scary. Food allergies are more than a physical condition; they impact every aspect of life.
For Charlotte Barton, the constant vigilance sometimes took a toll. “Charlotte was always very careful and even phobic about eating sometimes,” her mom remembers. “If you think about it, putting food in your body is supposed to nourish you and bring you together with friends and family; be a place of comfort and coming together. But if you ingest the wrong food, it can literally take your life if you have allergies. How do you talk that fear out of someone?”
A national survey by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America found that parents are often impacted even more than patients themselves. More than 80% of parents said their child’s food allergy is “always in the back of their mind.” Fear, anxiety and worry were common themes
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Statistically, two children in every classroom have a food allergy. These kids’ unique needs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, in which severe food allergies are considered a disability. This gives parents leverage to request modifications at school. Nonprofit group Food Allergy Research and Education recommends that parents of children with a food allergy collaborate with their school to create a written food allergy management plan. This might include:
504 Plan: This legally binding written plan details accommodations that schools must make for children with disabilities. It outlines how the school will address the individual needs of your child, allowing them to participate safely and equally alongside their peers during the school day. Every child with food allergies might not need a 504 Plan, but all parents have the right to request one. To begin the process, contact the school’s 504 coordinator. After medical records are reviewed, a decision is made if the student is eligible.
IHP: An Individualized Healthcare Plan details a child’s diagnosis, prevention strategies, medications and what to do in case of emergency. The document must be written by a registered nurse and directs nursing care. An IHP addresses what the school will do to create and maintain a safe environment for your child.
for caregivers, who reported experiencing a loss of normalcy and a considerable impact on their social life.
“There’s significant psychosocial impact on the child and the parent all the time, because food is always around,” says Mireku. “You can’t go to a birthday party and eat whatever, you can’t just stop at a restaurant, you actually need to plan. Nothing is just spontaneous.”
“It becomes your day-today,” says Barton. You read every label, pack every lunch, ensure safe goodies are at every class party and bring snacks everywhere you go.
Dining out or family vacations require extra layers of preparation. “There’s a lot of planning going on,” says Powell. “We say, ‘OK, we’re going here, what are we going to eat?’ If we go on vacation, we do a grocery run. We preplan what restaurants we’re going to visit and make phone calls to ask about the menu.”
There’s a reason the majority of food allergy sufferers are kids— often, they outgrow them. About 85% of children will outgrow their milk, egg, wheat or soy allergy by age 16. And about 20% will outgrow allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish.
For those who don’t, allergies are managed by avoiding foods and treating severe reactions when they arise. There is currently no cure for food allergies, though emerging therapies show promise.
Oral immunotherapy, or OIT, helps desensitize patients to allergens by giving them tiny amounts of the food they are allergic to every day, gradually building their body’s tolerance. This starts with a miniscule amount—sometimes as little as 1/10,000th of an egg—administered in doctor’s office. If the patient tolerates the initial doses at the center, they go home with a small amount of that allergen and take a specific amount every day for two weeks.
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From there, doctors will increase the dose little by little over the course of year.
Once a target dose is reached, patients must continue to eat the food every day to keep their bodies from regaining the allergy.
“This is not something that can be done at home,” says Mireku, who offers OIT at her clinic in McKinney. “This process needs to be supervised. OIT, although it’s great, there is a real risk of anaphylaxis any time throughout the protocol.”
Less risky, she says, is food sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT. This newer therapy involves placing drops containing traces of allergens under the tongue daily. The continual use of daily sublingual drops gradually reduces allergy symptoms.
The doses in OIT and food SLIT are “magnitudes different,” says Mireku. OIT might be better for someone who wants to be able to have a whole glass of milk, whereas food SLIT might just give parents peace of mind. “Some parents are like, ‘We’re not going to eat it, we just want to know if they have an accident, they could tolerate this much without having a reaction.’”
Kids with food allergies do need to be cautious, but they also need to take part in the normal parts of childhood. Toeing that line can be tough.
“There’s a fine line of having conversations without drilling in fear. But empowering kids who are living with food allergies to not be afraid, but being mindful and aware, is really important,” says Barton.
It’s especially important to keep the conversation going as these children enter their tween and teen years when they’re more apt to take risks. Teenagers with food allergies are more likely to eat unsafe foods, deny reaction symptoms, delay treatment or neglect to carry their life-saving rescue medication, according to the AAP
It’s also crucial that parents and children who don’t live with food allergies understand the seriousness. Up to 30% of
Food Allergy Research and Education, or FARE, offers a wealth of information and resources. The website (foodallergy.org) has guidance on how to read labels, school checklists, recipes and campaigns to prevent bullying. Spokin (spokin.com) is a food allergy app and lifestyle platform, customized to your family’s food allergies, location and interests. You can search for restaurants, find curated lists for places to stay, find allergyfriendly products, and get tips from experts and other food allergy moms.
Allergy Eats (allergyeats. com) lets you search by zip code, city or state for allergy-friendly restaurants nationwide. The guide, created by and for the food allergy community, crowdsources reviews on restaurants’ ability to accommodate food allergies. AllergenIQ (go.allergeniq. com) is Dr. Nana Mireku’s digital health platform to educate and provide virtual care throughout Texas and surrounding states.
children with food allergies are bullied. “And by that I mean, ‘As a joke I threw a peanut in your sandwich.’ That’s not funny, but these are kids, and they might not know how serious this can be,” says Mireku.
Barton hopes to raise more awareness around the gravity of food allergies with a nonprofit she’s starting in Charlotte’s honor, Live Like Charlotte (livelikechar.com), to “advocate and be the voice that educates others,” she says, “because that’s what Charlotte would do.”
More than care. Connection.
Hello, neighbor! We want you to know that we’re all in this together. Because “together” is the best way to shape treatment plans made just for your child––ones that are built by a team of doctors, families and patients. That’s what it means to deliver care that connects.
Find care: cookchildrens.org
THE HEALTH OF OUR LITTLE ONES IS QUITE A BIG DEAL. These facts and figures around kids’ wellness are good for parents to know.
37% 37%
ASTHMA IS THE MOST COMMON CHRONIC DISEASE AMONG CHILDREN, OFTEN APPEARING BEFORE AGE 5
95% OF U.S. CHILDREN have at least one health condition
95% THE IMMUNIZATION RATE FOR INCOMING KINDERGARTNERS IN TEXAS
3 TO 5 DAYS
The age at which most babies have their first visit to the pediatrician
7
8 8
THE AGE AT WHICH CHILDREN SHOULD BEGIN BEING SCREENED FOR ANXIETY BY THEIR DOCTOR, ACCORDING TO THE U.S. PREVENTIVE SERVICES TASK FORCE
THE NUMBER OF WELL-CHILD VISITS the AAP recommends in the first year of life
MOST CHILDREN HAVE AT LEAST 6 TO 8 COLDS A YEAR
20% 20%
100.4°
100.4°
THE BODY TEMPERATURE GENERALLY DEFINED AS A FEVER FOR THOSE OVER 4 MONTHS OLD
PEDIATRIC CARE starts at birth and can last through a child’s 21st birthday or longer
OF THE NATION’S UNINSURED CHILDREN LIVE IN TEXAS, THE MOST IN THE COUNTRY
ALLEN
Cook, Yuri MD, FAAP Raintree Healthcare
ARGYLE
Jones, Carrie MD, FAAP
Argyle Pediatrics
ARLINGTON
Raine, Wilfred MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Arlington
See ad on page 38
CARROLLTON
Araujo, Karla MD, FAAP
MD Kids Pediatrics, Carrollton
See ad on page 43
Rivera, Richard MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics North Carrollton Hebron
See ad on page 38
CEDAR HILL
Mancia, Eduardo MD, FAAP
MD Kids Pediatrics, Cedar Hill
See ad on page 42
COPPELL
Shumate, Lisa MD
MD Pediatric Associates
DALLAS
Albin, Jaclyn MD, CCMS, DipABLM
UT Southwestern Internal Medicine Pediatrics Clinic
Anglas, Pablo MD, FAAP MD Kids Pediatrics, Wynnewood
See ad on page 42
Bacsik, Susan DO
Oak Cliff Pediatrics
Bergman, Barry MD
Bergman Pediatrics
Clarke, R. Adrian MD
Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Dreiling, Christopher MD Pediatric Associates of Dallas
Fernandez, Ernesto MD Clinical Pediatric Associates
Lewis, Hillary MD, FAAP Pediatricians of Dallas
Lieu, Tiffany MD Park Cities Pediatrics
Lluberes, Karla MD MD Kids Pediatrics, Bachman Lake
See ad on page 42
McClard, Karen MD Pediatric Associates of Dallas
McDonald, Tonya P. MD, FAAP
Radiance Pediatrics
Mitchell, Damien MD Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Morales Gonzalez, Ruben MD
MD Kids Pediatrics, Lancaster Kiest
See ad on page 42
Pass, Amy MD, FAAP Happy & Healthy Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Patel, Nikita MD, FAAP MD Kids Pediatrics, North Cockrell Hill
See ad on page 42
Rogers, Donza MD Kessler Pediatrics
Simon, Matthew MD Park Cities Pediatrics
Singirikonda, Navya MD MD Kids Pediatrics, Pleasant Grove
See ad on page 42
Solis, Erica DO MD Kids Pediatrics, Wynnewood
See ad on page 42
Straughn, Christopher MD Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Tang, Lynda MD Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Velez, Jorge MD MD Kids Pediatrics, Oak Cliff
See ad on page 42
Weiss, Shelley MD, FAAP Healthy Texan Pediatrics & Family Medicine
DENTON
Nuby, Marquis MD
Nuby Pediatrics
DESOTO
Towns, Mark MD
Children’s Health Medical Group - Pediatrics Southwest
EULESS
Nnamani, Ijeoma MD, FAAP
Ivy Children’s Clinic
FARMERS BRANCH
Seidel, Jack MD, PA Jack D. Seidel Pediatrics
FLOWER MOUND
Naylor, Debra MD, PA, FAAP
18 & Under MD
FORNEY
Smart, Susan MD, FAAP Lake Ray Hubbard Pediatrics
FORT WORTH
Arnaout, Diane MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Forest Park
See ad on page 38
Carter, Courtney DO Alliance Pediatrics
Charette, Vanessa MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Magnolia
See ad on page 38
Galarza, Jusan MD, FAAFP
JPS Health Center, Diamond Hill
Giovannetti, Cynthia MD, FAAP
Continuum Pediatrics
Kinloch, Ramon MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Forest Park
See ad on page 38
Mandal, Kathryn MD, FAAP
Continuum Pediatrics
Mercer, Bradley MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Forest Park
See ad on page 38
Ramirez-Mercado, Sadi MD, FAAP
MD Kids Pediatrics, 8th Ave.
See ad on page 42
Reddy, Likhitha MD
Continuum Pediatrics
Wesp, Krystyna DO, FAAP
Continuum Pediatrics
Wylie, Kevin DO
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Southwest Harris Parkway
See ad on page 38
FRISCO
Afroza, Rahima MD, FAAP
Health & Healing Pediatrics
Hsu, Alison MD, FAAP, DABP
Starside Pediatrics
McGonnell, Chris MD Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Menon, Rohan MD
Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Okammor, Chioma MD, FAAP
NXTStep Pediatrics
Paruolo, William MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
West Frisco
See ad on page 38
Seibert, Lori MD BestNest Pediatrics
Smith, Chad MD Centennial Pediatrics
GARLAND
Char, Vandana MD MD Kids Pediatrics, North Garland
See ad on page 42
Naz, Saima MD MD Kids Pediatrics, North Garland
See ad on page 42
GRAPEVINE
Robert III, W. Pierre MD
Grapevine Pediatric Clinic, PA
HASLET
See, Paulette MD Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Haslet
See ad on page 38
Soria-Olmos, Bianka DO Cook Children’s Pediatrics Haslet
See ad on page 38
HURST
Nash, Lisa MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Hurst
See ad on page 38
IRVING
Asim, Farhana MD, FAAP MD Kids Pediatrics, MacArthur
See ad on page 42
Pradeep Shah, Nehal MD, FAAP
MacArthur Pediatrics
KELLER
Davis, William Kirk MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Heritage Trace
See ad on page 38
Jacob, Shelby MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Heritage Trace
See ad on page 38
Terrell, Amani S. MD
Cook Children’s Pediatrics Keller Parkway
See ad on page 38
MANSFIELD
Reed, Kristina DO Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Mansfield
See ad on page 38
MCKINNEY
Eley, Cheryl MD, FAAP Children’s Choice Pediatrics
Farhad, Nishath DO, FAAP MD Kids Pediatrics, McKinney
See ad on page 42
Kuboye, Kofoworola MD Children’s Choice Pediatrics
Truong, Hung MD, FAAP MD Kids Pediatrics, McKinney
See ad on page 42
MELISSA
Hilal, Amr MD
Goldfish Pediatrics & Urgent Care
MESQUITE
Lalwani, Mansi MD
Baylor Scott & White Family Health Center, Mesquite
Straughn, Christopher MD Forest Lane Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
MURPHY
Kotas, Robert MD Baylor Scott & White
Pediatric & Adolescent Associates, Murphy
Rosen, Myron MD Baylor Scott & White
Pediatric & Adolescent Associates, Murphy
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS
Dosu, Babatunde MD Metroplex Pediatrics
PLANO
Alwan, Muaz MD MD Kids Pediatrics, West Plano
See ad on page 42
Aviles Martinez, David MD MD Kids Pediatrics, West Plano
See ad on page 42
Dao, Vuong DO Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Plano
See ad on page 38
Hayes, Amy MD
P.A.D. Plano
Hebbur, Malini MD Village Health Partners
Horn, Cheryl MD Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Collin County
See ad on page 38
Merchant, Rhonda MD Cook Children’s Pediatrics
Plano Legacy
See ad on page 38
Reed, Rixney MD West Plano Pediatrics
See ad on page 41
Schwartz, Jay MD, FAAP Cook Children’s Pediatrics Collin County
See ad on page 38
Sickler, Susan MD Willow Bend Pediatrics
Taneja, Nancy MD Cook Children’s Pediatrics Collin County
See ad on page 38
PROSPER
Musharof, Fahmida MD MD Kids Pediatrics, Prosper
See ad on page 42
RICHARDSON
Daniel, Richard H. MD, FAAP
Richard H. Daniel, MD, FAAP
Porter, John R. MD John R. Porter MD, PA
Pounds, Natalie MD Richardson Pediatric Associates
Randles, Norah MD Richardson Pediatric Associates
Smith, Abbie MD Richardson Pediatric Associates
ROCKWALL
Lai, Wendy MD
Pecan Tree Pediatrics
See ad on page 43
Smart, Susan MD, FAAP Lake Ray Hubbard Pediatrics
ROWLETT
London, Dynal MD, FAAP Lake Pointe Pediatric Associates
SOUTHLAKE
Zwernemann, Erica MD Baylor Scott & White Southlake Family Medicine
TROPHY CLUB
Smith, Justin MD Cook Children’s Pediatrics Trophy Club
See ad on page 38
DALLAS
Hardin, Leslie RN, FNP-C MD Kids Pediatrics, Wynnewood
See ad on page 42
FORT WORTH
Benitez, Zabdi FNP-C
MD Kids Pediatrics, 8th Ave.
See ad on page 42
FRISCO
Britton, Melissa APRN, CPNP-PC
Natural Choice Pediatrics
Donlon, Jenna APRN, CPNP-PC
Natural Choice Pediatrics
Greco, Rebecca APRN, CPNP-PC
Natural Choice Pediatrics
Potter, Christie APRN, CPNP-PC
Natural Choice Pediatrics
Valenciano, Jana DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Natural Choice Pediatrics
MCKINNEY
Clayborne, Annalise
APRN, CPNP-PC
Well Rooted Pediatrics
ROCKWALL
Hamilton, Tiffany MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Reclaim Wellness
See ad on page 42
DALLAS
Batley, Kaitlin MD
Neurology
Children’s Health Specialty Center Dallas
Gamble, Bradford MD Otolaryngology
Otolaryngology Specialists of North Texas
Laird, Tracy MD
Cardiology
Pediatric Heart Specialists
Sugerman, Robert W. MD
Allergy & Immunology
Allergy Partners of North Texas
FRISCO
Berry, Lindsay OD, FCOVD Optometry
Vision Advancement Center
Dave, Mona MD
Gastroenterology
Texas Digestive Disease Consultants
MCKINNEY
Mireku, Nana MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI
Allergy & Immunology
Texas AllergyMD
See ad on page 43
PLANO
Burton, Amy MD
Endocrinology
Pediatric Endocrinology of North Texas
Gamble, Bradford MD
Otolaryngology
Otolaryngology Specialists of North Texas
Laird, Tracy MD
Cardiology
Pediatric Heart Specialists
SOUTHLAKE
Dave, Mona MD
Gastroenterology
Texas Digestive Disease Consultants
DALLAS
Hammer, Carli PA-C MD Kids Pediatrics, Wynnewood
See ad on page 42
Dr. Rixney Reed is committed to providing compassionate, competent, and evidence-based care to children. She enjoys partnering with families to help their kids achieve joyful and healthy lives. A native of New Orleans, Dr. Reed completed her medical and residency training at Louisiana State University Health Science Center before relocating to Dallas to join her husband. She is a board-certified pediatrician and an enthusiastic mentor to students aspiring to enter the medical field.
West Plano Pediatrics 6020 W. Parker Rd., Ste. 310 Plano, TX 75093 972-608-0774
westplanopediatrics.com
Muaz Alwan MD; Pablo Anglas MD, FAAP; Karla Araujo MD, FAAP; Farhana Asim MD, FAAP; David Aviles Martinez MD; Zabdi Benitez FNP-C; Vandana Char MD; Nishath Farhad DO, FAAP; Carli Hammer PA-C; Leslie Hardin RN, FNP-C; Karla Lluberes MD; Eduardo Mancia MD, FAAP; Ruben Morales Gonzalez MD; Fahmida Musharof MD; Saima Naz MD; Nikita Patel MD, FAAP; Sadi Ramirez Mercado MD, FAAP; Navya Singirikonda MD; Erica Solis DO; Hung Truong MD, FAAP; Jorge Velez MD
Pediatrics
4x Mom Approved
No matter what their future holds, we’re here to help give your little one the best start possible. With over 50 healthcare providers at 19 offices in North Texas, our caring providers offer excellent care close to home.
MD Kids Pediatrics is dedicated to delivering quality newborn and pediatric care. We offer complimentary pediatric prenatal visits during your third trimester to help you establish your child’s medical home.
We’re in-network for most commercial insurance, self-pay and Medicaid/CHIP is accepted. Sick kid now? Use KidzDocNow, telemedicine is available 7 days a week—kidzdocnow.us.
MD Kids Pediatrics
1-888-776-5252
mdmedicalgroup.us
Offices in Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Tarrant counties. Call 888-776-5252 or text 844-395-4340 to schedule an appointment.
mdmedicalgroup.us
Tiffany Hamilton is the founder of Reclaim Wellness, an integrative pediatric wellness clinic in Rockwall. Tiffany is a certified family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Tiffany received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Baylor University and her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Hawai’i. She worked a combined 10 years in the adult, trauma, neuro, pediatric and neonatal ICU. She also worked in the ER and the trauma bay in Phoenix, AZ. Tiffany was an air-evac nurse for the army as a DOD civilian transporting critically ill patients across the Pacific. She served as a board member on the Breastfeeding Hawai’i Coalition. In 2011 she and four other women wrote and proposed amendments to legislation to provide more rights to breastfeeding moms in the workplace and in 2013 this bill was passed.
Tiffany has spent the past 8 years working in pediatric holistic care. She believes that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when given the proper environment. Tiffany focuses on disease prevention and treats the root cause of health concerns instead of simply treating the symptoms with medications. She walks alongside families in their children’s health journey to help them live a life of wellness. Tiffany offers newborn exams, well child exams, acute sick visits and sports physicals. She also provides care to children with PANS/PANDAS, ADHD, allergies, asthma, eczema, mold, GI concerns and behavioral concerns.
251 Harker Trail, Rockwall, TX 75087 469-897-2482
reclaimwellnessnp@gmail.com
reclaimwellness.com
Forest Lane Pediatrics
Dallas • 972-284-7770
Mesquite • 972-629-2250
Frisco • 972-526-0700 forestlanepediatrics.com
Pediatrics
11x Mom Approved
Forest Lane Pediatrics has 16 outstanding pediatricians, with offices in Dallas, Frisco and Mesquite, who are dedicated to optimizing the physical, mental, and emotional health of your child. All well and sick visits are with a board certified pediatrician so you can be confident that your child is getting the best care possible. We have separate waiting rooms for well and sick patients, as well as air purifiers in each exam room, to create the safest environment possible for your family. We also have virtual visits available for conditions that do not require a physical exam. In addition to our amazing doctors, we have fantastic lactation consultants, courteous staff and an extensive website with helpful information. We love partnering with parents to care for and nurture children from birth to college, and it would be our pleasure to be your child’s pediatrician!
Pediatrics
2x Mom Approved
Happy & Healthy Pediatrics
12200 Park Central Dr., Ste. 189
Dallas, TX 75251
972-546-5550 staff@happyandhealthypedi.com healthyandhappypedi.com
Dr. Amy Pass is honored to be a 2023 Mom-Approved pediatrician! Dr. Pass recently opened a new practice, Happy & Healthy Pediatrics, in March of 2023. She strives to provide a medical home for all of her patients, from the first day of newborn life, through the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood. Dr. Pass has a passion for personalizing care for each child, educating patients about their health, as well as their illnesses. She feels that empowering parents with the knowledge to help their children grow into their best selves is a large part of her job. Dr. Pass provides care with checkups, sports physicals, same-day sick visits, ADHD diagnosis and management, treatment of mental health concerns, autism, Down syndrome and children with special needs. She also welcomes expectant moms to schedule a prenatal visit. Dr. Pass and her team will always have a place for you at Happy & Healthy Pediatrics.
Pediatrics
3x Mom Approved
Pecan Tree Pediatrics is proud to have Dr. Wendy Lai voted as one of DFWChild’s 2023 Mom-Approved Pediatricians. Pecan Tree Pediatrics has offices in the following locations to serve our families: Rockwall, Wylie, and Lakewood. Dr. Lai works and is accepting new patients at our Rockwall location. For more information, visit pecantreepediatrics.com
Pecan Tree Pediatrics
6301 Gaston Ave., Ste. 125P, Dallas, TX 75214 • 214-214-3100
1005 W. Ralph Hall Pkwy., Ste. 135, Rockwall, TX 75032 • 972-772-3100
3360 W. FM 544, Ste. 910, Wylie, TX 75098 • 972-429-4800 pecantreepediatrics.com
Allergy & Immunology
3x Mom Approved
Dr. Mireku is a board-certified pediatric allergist/immunologist who has been serving patients in the DFW metroplex for over 15 years. As an allergy sufferer herself and being the parent of two kids with seasonal and food allergies, she is passionate about providing relief for her patients. TexasAllergyMD is conveniently located at the border of McKinney, Frisco and Prosper, and also offers virtual allergy care via the AllergenIQ platform.
TexasAllergyMD
1400 N. Coit Rd., Ste. 405, McKinney, TX 75071 888-773-0186 • texasallergymd.com • go.allergeniq.com
From language immersion to music and theater, charter schools offer unique specialties
THERE ARE OVER 100 public charter schools in Dallas-Fort Worth, which educate about 8% of the region’s students. These schools are free to attend and have the same accountability as Independent School Districts, so what makes them different? “Charter schools bring different missions and models into the public education system,” says Brian Whitley, VP of communications for Texas Public Charter School Association.
So, what are those various missions and models? From language immersion to music and theater, many of these schools offer a specialized curriculum or focus to meet the needs or interests of different students.
As their names suggest, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and Texas School of the Arts—located in Fort Worth and Edgecliff Village, respectively—are heavily arts-focused. Teachers in academic classes are encouraged to take a more artistic approach, says Monica Sheehan, marketing communications director of Texas Center for Arts + Academics, which operates the two schools. When it comes to arts instruction, elementary school students receive a well-rounded arts education, while the middle and high school grades focus on their intended art, be that music, dance or theater.
Then there’s the International Leadership of Texas, a trilingual language immersion school. In kindergarten through fifth grades, students alternate between learning in English one day and Spanish the next. They’re then immersed in Chinese during art, music, and fitness classes. As students progress into higher grades, they can take dedicated Spanish and Chinese classes.
STEM is another area of focus at local charter schools, including Harmony Public Schools, which has 15 schools across DFW. A rigorous STEM curriculum is taught in all grade levels—with foundations taught early on and built upon year after year. In fact, because of the curriculum, most of the high school students have become certified in HTML, cybersecurity, computer science, and more, says Susan Campbell, district communications and marketing director for Harmony’s North Texas Secondary District.
Some charter schools even opt to follow the International Baccalaureate—like Uplift Education, which has 21 schools across DFW, and Manara Leadership Academy in Irving. The IB is a rigorous
program that educates the whole scholar by challenging students to think critically, ask questions, and think across disciplines. Students who earn an IB diploma “are able to get up to 24 credit hours in college, so oftentimes, many of our students enter college with their first year of college already completed,” says Remy L. Washington, president of Uplift Education.
Several local charter schools have unique leadership programs. International Leadership of Texas, which has 13 locations across Dallas and Tarrant counties, aims to prepare students for leadership roles in the international community. In younger grades, students learn to be good followers to become good leaders. Then in high school, they take dedicated classes where they learn leadership traits and principles.
Village Tech Schools, located in Duncanville, follow the Leader in Me program from Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. This helps propel socialemotional learning and to teach about goal setting and decision making, says Elizabeth Podany, the school’s director of design in innovation.
There are charter schools that also make giving back to the community part of school life.
International Leadership of Texas’s motto, “Others Before Self,” goes hand-in-hand with its service leadership model. Each grade on each campus selects a community service project to complete each year.
Village Tech students help solve problems in the community. They’re currently working on a dog park for Duncanville and recently completed projects for the Dallas Zoo and a food pantry.
And Manara Academy District is currently organizing a 5K walk/run in service to the global community—all money raised will go to support the needs of those impacted by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
Charter schools give parents many options. The first thing to think about is what’s important to you and your children—an academic focus, community service, college prep, etc., Whitley advises. Then visit and tour the schools near you within those parameters and see what it’s like to be part of that school.
Universal Academy offers each student a customized educational pathway to success. We start by providing your child access to the highly academically acclaimed “Cambridge International” program. Our program blends academic rigor, socialization, and extra-curricular activities to motivate, support and enrich every student’s daily learning experience. Universal Academy is currently the only public school in Texas that offers the esteemed Cambridge program, a virtual school program as well as offering an Equestrian program that includes Therapeutic riding for all students.
universalacademy.com
Irving Campus: Pre-K–12th
972-255-1800
2616 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, TX 75062
Coppell Campus: Pre-K–12th
972-393-5068
1001 E. Sandy Lake Rd., Coppell, TX 75019
New Campus Fall 2023
Bartonville Campus: K–12th
972-393-5068
2700 FM 407 E., Bartonville, TX 76226
Virtual School: 6th–12th
972-393-5068
ua.virtual@universalacademy.com
Mission Statement: To create a challenging and intellectually engaging curriculum within a safe, nurturing environment by providing varied learning opportunities that focus on the development of instructional excellence, leadership, and character building in partnership with a diverse community of lifelong learners.
PREHISTORIC PARK
Through April 16
MEADOWMERE PARK, GRAPEVINE
This outdoor exhibition of animatronic dinosaurs goes the extra mile with boneyard games, a dig site and a tracks trail for kids. Come during select hours on weekends for dino encounters with a baby Tyrannosaurus, and join Dinos After Dark on
April 8 and 15 for special encounters with enhanced sound effects. $29 per vehicle and includes up to six people. 817/410-3450; gograpevine.com
DALLAS BLOOMS
Through April 16
DALLAS ARBORETUM
This spring floral festival, known for absolutely blanketing the arboretum with colorful tulips, also show-
cases bronze sculptures of Harriet Tubman, Joan of Arc and other historical figures by artist Gary Lee Price. Come on the next Family Fun Weekend April 7–9 for a petting zoo and story time featuring tales of those Great Contributors. $20 adults, $12 children; under 2 free. Additional $3 for Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. 214/515-6615; dallasarboretum.org
ANASTASIA
April 6–8
WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE, DALLAS
This Broadway musical takes this unlikely story— one loosely based on a true tale about a woman who once claimed to be a long lost princess of the Russian Empire—and turns it into a soaring, inspiring musical about home, family and love. Best for ages 8 and
older. Tickets from $25. 214/880-0202; attpac.org
SCARBOROUGH
RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
April 8–May 29
SCARBOROUGH
FAIRGROUNDS, WAXAHACHIE
You’ll find jousting knights, mermaids, fairies and royalty roaming and performing throughout this replica 16thcentury English village set deep into the Waxahachie
➽ ANASTASIA
with virtual reality headsets, 3D animations on the OmniGlobe, and star shows inside an inflatable planetarium all weekend. FREE 214/310-1200; earthx. org/expo
MYSTERY IN THE PARK
April 22
GRAPEVINE BOTANICAL GARDENS
rides and live concerts. Head to the Children’s Area, surrounded by a white picket fence, for a mini maze, giant sand pit and 20 other free activities. $12 adults; $7 children; under 3 free and free festival admission for everyone on Thursday. 817/3321055; mayfest.org
woods. This immersive festival opens weekends through Memorial Day Monday, each time with a different theme. Advance tickets: $32 adults; $14 children; under 5 free. Come on opening weekend when all kids 12 and younger get in free. 972/938-3247; srfestival.com
EASTER BUNNY TRAIN
April 8–9
GRAPEVINE VINTAGE
RAILROAD
Hop aboard the climatecontrolled passenger rail for a family-friendly ride with the Easter Bunny, plus candy and an Easter story reading. Excursions depart at 2:20pm and 4:20pm each day and last about one hour. Tickets are $20 for all ages. 817/410-3185; gvrr.com
EASTER IN THE PARK
April 9
TURTLE CREEK PARK, DALLAS
After a three-year hiatus, Turtle Creek Conservancy brings back its Easter Sunday egg hunt on the lawn and its costumed Pooch Parade. Dress your kids or your dogs—or both—in their Sunday best to take part in the fanfare, take photos with the Easter Bunny and enjoy the festival’s live concert, food trucks and games. Free to join egg hunt; $25 registration for dog parade. 214/521-2003; turtlecreekconservancy.org
ELM FORK LADYBUG RELEASE
April 15
ELM FORK NATURE CENTER, CARROLLTON
Ladybugs are not only good luck, they’re also good for the environment. So, on the occasion of Earth Day, lace up your hiking boots to join this guided hike through the nature preserve where, at twilight, a naturalist will humanely release ladybugs into the forest. FREE 972/4663080; cityofcarrollton.com
FLORA FEST
April 16
TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS, DALLAS
If you’ve never before visited the glass-encased tropical butterfly house at Fair Park, this family-friendly fundraiser is a great reason to go. Bring your littles to hop on mini train rides around the garden or join garden tours, critter encounters, and other nature activities. Tickets $30 adults; $20 children. 214/428-7476; txdg.org
THE AMAZING
ACRO-CATS
April 19–21
STAGE WEST THEATRE, FORT WORTH
Who says you can’t train a cat? Through clicker training, this troupe of abut 20 rescue cats and kittens
performs tricks like jumping through hoops and even playing instruments. (You can learn all about them in an episode of Netflix’s Cat People.) See this wholesome show for tickets starting at $25; $45–$55 seats include a post-show meet and greet. 817/784-9378; rockcatsrescue.org
MAIN ST. FORT WORTH
ARTS FESTIVAL
April 20–23
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
Let the kids get their hands dirty with a Jackson Pollockinspired paint project, get creative with robotics, and join more arts activities inside the TCC Makers Zone. You’ll find this children’s area set up on the north end of the 18-block festival near the Tarrant County Courthouse. Free festival admission. Some activities require coupons. 817/3362787; mainstreetartsfest.org
EARTHX2023
April 21–23
FAIR PARK, DALLAS
On Earth Day weekend, this annual fest of kids activities (all of them free) helps to show your littles that learning about and supporting environmental causes can be fun too. Bring the family for first-hand experiences
Are you itching to play detective? This interactive event—brought to you by the creators of a local escape room, Grapevine Escape—lets guests of all ages explore the gardens in search of clues and work to undercover the real culprit. Choose one of three start times at 11am, 2pm and 5pm. $10 per person for Grapevine residents; $15 for non-residents. 817/4103450; gograpevine.com
CHARLOTTE’S WEB
April 29–May 27
DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER
Getting caught up in a spider’s web is usually a bad thing, but it’s Wilbur the pig’s saving grace in this classic story exploring friendship, courage and mortality. Best for ages 5 and older. See the play for tickets from $17. $5 for sensoryfriendly show on May 6. 214/740-0051; dct.org
A NIGHT AT THE BALL
April 30
COURTYARD THEATRE, PLANO
Dress up the kids as a prince or princess for this family concert by the Plano Symphony Orchestra. Here kids will learn about classical music and instruments and listen to scores from Beauty and the Beast and other movies, while marionettes and dancers perform. Tickets from $12. 972/473-7262; planosymphony.org
MAYFEST
May 4–7
TRINITY PARK, FORT WORTH
This spring festival along the Trinity River overlooks downtown, a picturesque backdrop to the carnival
PLANO ASIAFEST
May 6
HAGGARD PARK, PLANO
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and this annual festival offers a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage. Come experience lion dances, martial arts, fashion shows and lots of vendors selling traditional foods. What’s more—an art exhibit inside the nearby
Courtyard Theater goes on display April 19–May 26. FREE 972/379-9351; planoasiafest.org
May 7
HISTORIC
DOWNTOWN WYLIE
Move over, Daytona. A fleet of 200 pedal cars driven by preschoolers is set to speed down North Ballard Avenue. Register online to join the race. Winners receive trophies in two age brackets: 2 to 3-year-olds and 4 to 5-year-olds. $15; includes a T-shirt. Proceeds benefit area Special Olympics and historic downtown Wylie beautification. 972/5166016; wylietexas.gov
SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ON-SCREEN ADVENTURERS are heading to performance stages in Dallas-Fort Worth. See them in the flesh during these new touring musicals and shows.
DISNEY ON ICE
April 6–9
DICKIES ARENA, FORT WORTH
JURASSIC QUEST
May 12–14
FORT WORTH
CONVENTION CENTER
A tame herd of dinosaur puppets and animatronics arrive in Cowtown for one weekend of family fun. $22 general admission gets you access to live shows, art and science activities, and a soft play area dedicated for toddlers. $36 for unlimited access to even more interactive portions of the exhibit, like dinosaur rides and inflatables. Under 2 free. 833/486-3466; jurassicquest.com
CORTEO
May 17–21
COMERICA CENTER, FRISCO
A clown named Mauro leads the international cast of Cirque du Soleil acrobats as they swing from chandeliers, hula-hoop, juggle and jump on two 600-pound beds that move on rotating platforms. Tip: Go to an afternoon performance so that afterward, you can take the kids to a playground and let them safely channel their own inner acrobat. Tickets from $49. 214/387-5700; comericacenter.com
MAIN STREET FEST
May 19–21
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
GRAPEVINE
The City of Grapevine closes its Main Street to traffic and transforms it into festival grounds for street performers, carnival rides and a Kidz Zone full of crafts and activities from Legoland and Sea Life Aquarium. Daily admission: $9 adults; $5 children; under 6 free. $3 for tickets for Observation Tower Tours 150 feet up at Grapevine Main Station. 817/410-3185; grapevinetexasusa.com
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
May 19–21
WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE, DALLAS
May 26–28
BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH Texas Ballet Theater’s last performance of the season is perhaps its most kid-friendly. See Alice, the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter and all the rest from Lewis Carroll’s most famous story. Tickets from $20. 877/828-9200; texasballettheater.org
WILDFLOWER ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL
May 19–21
GALATYN PARK URBAN CENTER, RICHARDSON
Rock legends Joan Jett and Jimmie Vaughn headline the city’s annual music fest. For your family’s own aspiring musical artists, apply by April 11 to audition for the Budding Talent Vocal Competition, open to kids in K–12th grades. And don’t miss the WF! Kids area for games and more arts action. Advance admission for adults from $20; free for children. 972/744-4580; wildflowerfestival.com
NATIVE TEXAS
BUTTERFLY HOUSE & GARDEN
Opens
May 27
HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE
MUSEUM & WILDLIFE
SANCTUARY, MCKINNEY Pollinators can use all the help they can get these days, like this garden designed just for them. Come walk among free-flying beauties in this butterfly house filled with native plants that nourish their little bodies. Free with general admission: $12 adults; $9 children; under 3 free. 972/562-5566; heardmuseum.org
Of all the Disney On Ice ice-skating shows on the tour circuit right now, your kids may love Frozen & Encanto the most, as it stars magical heroines Elsa and Mirabel. See them both on the ice and in the preshow meet and greet. Tickets from $30. 817/402-9801; disneyonice.com
BLIPPI THE MUSICAL
April 19
CREDIT UNION OF TEXAS EVENT CENTER, ALLEN
The Blippi character and his best friend Meekah (now the star of her own spin-off show) bring their dancing, singing and silliness to preschoolers with their brandnew Wonderful World Tour. The show runs around 80 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission. Tickets from $32.50. $50 for the post-show meet and greet. 972/912-1057; cutxeventcenter.com
DINO RANCH LIVE
April 22
TEXAS TRUST CU THEATRE, GRAND PRAIRIE
Lovers of the Disney Junior TV series won’t want to miss this first-ever live show starring the Cassidy family and their loveable dinos Blitz, Clover and Tango on their “pre-westoric” ranch. The show runs about 60 minutes, plus one intermission. Tickets from $25. VIP packages include a photo op, merch, and front row or premium seating. 972/854-5076; texastrustcutheatre.com
➽ BLIPPI THE MUSICAL
FOR MORE KID-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK, VISIT OUR ONLINE CALENDAR AT DFWCHILD.COM/CALENDAR
At Spark!Lab, we believe everyone is inventive.
This unique space offers children and their families an opportunity to create, innovate and problem solve, empowering kids to develop the skills and confidence they need for success today and in the future.
The impact we’ve made over the last 50 years...
651,000 children educated
95,000 teachers impacted
10,250 leaders leveled-up
376 combined years of experience
and today, the Little Tyke legacy continues to impact, motivate and educate the leaders of tomorrow.
“Throughout the last 50 years, Little Tyke has remained committed to developing a culture where our children, families, and faculty are nurtured, loved, and educated in a stable, safe, and caring environment. We pride ourselves in this family-centered approach, where everyone who enters our doors becomes a part of the Little Tyke Family Legacy.”
—Alex & Brandy Little, President/Vice-President, Owners
Euless | 1000 Villa Dr., Euless, TX 76040 | 817-283-9209
Grapevine/North Euless | 3033 N. Main St., Euless, TX 76039 | 817-283-1113
East Fort Worth | 6913 Brentwood Stair Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76112 | 817-451-9375
North Fort Worth | 7001 N. Beach St., Fort Worth, TX 76137 | 817-232-4008
Hurst | 1734 Sotogrande Blvd., Hurst, TX 76053 | 817-571-7720
N. Richland Hills | 8204 26 Blvd., N. Richland Hills, TX 76180 | 817-281-7387
N. Richland Hills/Watauga | 6700 Smithfield Rd., N. Richland Hills, TX 76182 | 817-281-5783
Richland Hills | 6923 Baker Blvd., Richland Hills, TX 76118 | 817-284-8521
Weatherford | 1718 Santa Fe Dr., Weatherford, TX 76086 | 817-596-7556
Childhood summer memories and camp go hand-in-hand.
Explore these fun camp options that will make this a summer to remember.
Find additional camps at dfwchild.com/camps
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 campuses in Plano.
6700 Communications Pkwy., Plano, TX 75024 • 469-573-0077
10145 Independence Pkwy., Plano, TX 75025 • 469-642-2000 ChallengerSchool.com
Choose YOUR adventure! At Camp Clayton, summer camp days will be filled with hands-on fun and collaborative learning experiences that appeal to your child’s varied interests! All camps offer a healthy dose of physical activity, foodology, special events and field trips each week for students ages 4–13.
Clayton Youth Enrichment, a leader in quality before and after school care, offers Camp Clayton at multiple locations across Tarrant county with each location offering one or more day camp theme options: ADVENTURE CAMP, ACADEMY SPECIALITY CAMP, STEAM CAMP and PRE-K DISCOVERY CAMP. See weekly themes and register: claytonyouth.org/summer-camp
600 Griggs Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76103 817-923-9888 claytonyouth.org/summer-camp
SummerYou is an eight-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 2023 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
Athletes ages 6–16 are invited to participate in Dallas Cowboys Youth Football & Cheer Camps presented by Invisalign! Football Camps focus on lessons in teamwork, dedication, and character giving campers an educational and memorable experience. Cheer Camps focus on technical skills while learning the importance of positive self-esteem and strong core values through personalized coaching from the current Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Lil’ Miss DCC Camps offer the smallest of campers, ages 3–6, introductory cheer skills taught by the current Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Save $25 when you register by May 12!
Youth Football & Cheer Camps
• June 19–21*
• June 27–29*
• July 5–7*
• July 10–12*
• July 14–15^
• July 17–19*
• July 21–22*
• July 24–26*
• July 31–August 1*
Camp locations: ^AT&T Stadium *Ford Center
Lil’ Miss DCC Camps @ DCC Studio at The Star
• April 23
• May 21
• June 25
• July 16
Football Camp Registration Includes: Interactive coaching from former NFL players, T-shirt, medal, lunch and photos from America’s Best Photography
Cheer Camp Registration Includes: Instruction from current Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, pom-poms, T-shirt, medal, lunch and photos from America’s Best Photography
Ford Center at The Star in Frisco – 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco, TX 75034 camps@dallascowboys.net • dallascowboys.com/camps
Let the creativity flow as your child explores the arts!
TCA+A has week-long summer camps for students ages 3–18 Enjoy dance, music, theatre and visual arts every day with friends! After a week of learning and exploring, put your skills to use with an end-of-the-week presentation. You can choose the camp that’s perfect for your child whether it be Creative Arts, Art Studio, Dance Intensive, Tech Theatre: Sound Workshop or Tech Theatre: Lighting Workshop
We also have two new summer camps that utilize our professional-level choirs.
A Week With TBC allows your student to be an honorary member of the Grammy Award-winning Texas Boys Choir for a week. Camp is open to any young male singer with an unchanged voice (treble voice). Participants must have at least completed 1st grade.
Songbird Symposium is a treble choir experience that serves high school singers and celebrates treble choirs and the music they perform. Join us for a weekend of music, friendship, and learning. All high school treble singers, their directors, and rising 9th graders are welcome to attend.
3901 South Hulen St. Fort Worth, TX 76109
817-717-4544
artsacademics.org/summer
At the Y, kids experience new adventures, learn to swim, make new friends, and shape memories that last a lifetime! Join us for overnight camps and day camps, offering fun, new adventures for your kids like horseback riding, climbing wall, alpine tower, zip lining, swim lessons, canoeing, water skiing, sailing, fishing, and so much more.
YMCA Summer Camps are located throughout North Texas, and our Camp Grady Spruce is located on Possum Kingdom Lake. We hope your children, ages 3–16, will spend their summer with the Y!
• Day Camp
• Resident Camp
• Ages 5–16 years—vary by camp
• Camp fun and amenities—vary by camp
° Horseback Riding
° Alpine Tower
° Water Skiing
• Many camp options
° Archery
° Swim Lessons
° Sailing
° Climbing Wall
° Canoeing
° Fishing
° Camp Grady Spruce: Resident camp located on Possum Kingdom Lake
° Collin County Adventure Camp: Day camp and resident camp options located in Anna, Texas
° Camp on the Lake – Day camp located on Lake Lewisville
° YMCA Day Camps – 20+ locations throughout North Texas
214-880-9622
ymcadallas.org/camp
Separate girl/boy camps on the beautiful Guadalupe River near Kerrville. Ages 6–16. Family style dining, home cooked food, worldwide enrollment, personable counselors. More than 40 fun activities, including array of sports, horseback, swimming, arts, many more. Campers learn self-confidence, teamwork, leadership, meeting challenges. Ragsdale family owned and operated. Celebrating Camp Stewart’s Centennial, and Heart O’ the Hills’ 70th summer.
2430 Hwy. 39, Hunt TX 78024 830-238-4650 • ragsdalefamilycamps.com
Summer Destination: Camp Cooper
Keep your kids and teens active this summer at Cooper Fitness Center. Our experienced staff and outdoor setting provide the ultimate camp experience.
Ages: 5–16, days/times vary Connect: Socialize in a secure setting
Play: Indoor and outdoor activity without screen time
Enjoy: Interactive activities led by trained professionals
• Summer Fit & Fun Day Camps: Actionpacked day camps introduce various sports, games and wellness through daily fitness and nutrition lessons. Week-long sessions begin June 5.
XPLORE: Summer at TVS provides a season of safe, unique, and fun learning experiences!
Each year, over 750 participants ages 4–17 attend at least one camp, and many return for several weeks! We welcome ALL students from the Fort Worth area and beyond.
XPLORE programs focus on growing active, confident, and creative young people. Setting XPLORE: Summer at TVS apart is our firm belief that your family should have as much choice as possible when determining your summer activities.
We have the perfect camp adventure for you in a wide array of themed STEAM camp programming. Thousands of children have experienced the magic of our award-winning camps. Inspired by everything kids love most, our epic camps are vacations in their own right—super fun, interactive, hands-on, and exciting! Our themes include Pet Palooza, Arcade Mania, Entrepreneurs, Girls & Dolls, Under the Sea, Space, Investigators, Slime and many, many more!
Challenge Island—West Plano/North Dallas 17630 Davenport #104, Dallas, TX 75252 469-779-7844
challenge-island.com/westplano-northdallas
• Summer Tennis Camps: Beginner and intermediate players focus on developing technique while learning how to serve and rally. Weekly sessions begin June 5.
• Swim Lessons: Private and semi-private. Cooper swim instructors teach stroke mechanics, proper breathing technique and water safety. Year-round, all ages.
Register today at cooperyouth.com.
12100 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75230 972.233.4382
Camp and class topics include yoga, painting, soccer, coding, mosaics, babysitting, climbing & the challenge course, Spanish, science, drumming, theater, field hockey, bike club, storybook adventure, STEAM, football, and much more!
The 2023 season will run from May 30 to August 4. Please join us as we embark on a great adventure in Summer 2023!
XPLORE: Summer at TVS Trinity Valley School 7500 Dutch Branch Road Fort Worth, TX 76132 tvs.org
Explore the wonders of Japan in the week-long Japan-America Society Summer Camp! This summer camp is for children (ages 8–12, grades 3 through 7) who are interested in learning Japanese language, customs, traditions and about modern Japan. Campers will engage in language lessons, reading, writing, storytelling and hands-on cultural activities that include anime drawing, calligraphy, origami folding, tea ceremony, sushi rolling and more!
Camp is held Monday–Friday, June 5–9 at 9am–12:30pm at the JASDFW office building in Plano. 8:30am early drop off available.
500 N. Central Expy., Ste. 201, Plano TX 75074 469-573-6880 jasdfw.org/event/2023-destination-japan-camp
At our 7th annual We Dig Camp, we create an engaging and educational experience for our sprouts (campers), 14 months–6 years, with weekly themes including dinos, superheroes and circus. Sprouts rotate throughout our facility with their peers to experience all we offer from jumping on the trampoline and running in our hothouse, crafting in our greenhouse, singing and dancing with professional musicians in our conservatory and, of course, sparking imagination in our nursery with puzzles, Magnatiles and more! Camps are held May 15–September 8. Purchase weekly (2-day minimum), 9am–11:30am includes snack, 9am–1pm includes snack and lunch plus add-on hours and sibling discounts.
For 29 years Kidventure has provided the chance for our kids to grow, learn, and be a part of something rewarding. The need for that opportunity to do so has never been greater. Our kids need the chance to foster strong relationships. Our kids need the opportunity to gain confidence. Most of all our kids need to unplug—and plug into one another! Register today!
Kidventure provides summer day camp programs at a number of outstanding locations including Kessler, Preston Hollow, Lake Highlands, Little Elm and Plano!
214-303-9789
kidventure.com/dallas-summer-camp
Get ready for a summer of discovery at River Legacy Nature Center! Will you scavenge for art supplies in the forest, investigate insects under a microscope, or explore careers in animal care?
With an extraordinary range of classes, activities, and educators, River Legacy offers an engaging way to learn about wildlife, ecology and the environment.
Camps range from preschool to 8th grade, and there are multiple classes per age group for double the fun! Camps run from early June to late July, and range from $200-$300 per camp.
703 NW
Less kumbaya, more hooah!
Wilderness camping for boys age 10–16 June 7–11 • June 21–25 • July 5–9
SquadSTX is a unique alternative to traditional summer camp and Boy Scouts. Our program is an overnight camping and hiking program in central Texas designed and run by U.S. Army infantry officers. Not for the faint-hearted!
Primitive camping • Hiking • Swimming • Land navigation
Lasertag missions • Wilderness skills • Team focus
Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose, TX info@squadstx.com • 903-883-6398 squadstx.com
Ballet Basics introduces young dancers, ages 3–6, to the fundamentals of ballet in a fun, encouraging environment. The camp experience also includes crafts, story time and choreography matching the theme of the week. The Young Dancer Intensive (ages 7–9) and Junior Intensive (ages 10–14) broaden dancers’ perspectives with a variety of classes including ballet, modern, jazz and musical theater. Dancers will focus on artistry and technique with instruction from supportive faculty. All programs are available at our Fort Worth and Richardson campuses. For more information, visit our website or contact your nearest campus at fwschool@texasballet.org or dallasschool@texasballet.org
Fort Worth: 1500 Mall Circle, Fort Worth 76116 • 817-763-0207 Dallas: 300 N. Coit Rd. Ste. 231, Richardson 75080 • 214-377-8576
UA+ Summer Camps stimulate curiosity, spark innovation, encourage collaboration and embrace Ursuline Academy of Dallas’ motto, Serviam (I will serve). You will love becoming a part of our community! Come join the fun June 5–July 28, 2023!
• Adventure Camps for boys and girls entering grades 3 and up.
• Athletic Camps for girls entering grades 5 and up.
• All-State Audition Prep Camps for musicians entering grades 9 and up.
4900 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX 75229 469-232-1800 www.ursulinedallas.org/summerprograms
No one does summer like the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth! Summer should be a time of fun, freedom and new adventures. That is exactly what a YMCA summer offers your child. Through a variety of day, overnight, sports and specialty camps, there is something for every child at the YMCA. Our summer camp experiences are for children ages 4–16 years old and offer:
• An environment where children are encouraged to be themselves in a safe and positive atmosphere
• Opportunities to learn, grow and meet new friends
• Experiences that create lasting memories
• Swimming and outdoor adventures
Multiple locations across North Texas Register today for your best summer at ymcafw.org/programs/summer-day-camp
Chess, cooking, pottery, Spanish, tennis, drama … these are some of the fun activities that your teenagers or your younger children will be able to explore at the DIS Summer Enrichment Camp. Extended day options as well as full-day and half-day programs available on both of our campuses. Lunch is provided to all full-day campers.
6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230
17811 Waterview Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75252 972-991-6379 camps@dallasinternationalschool.org dallasinternationalschool.org
Ideal for teens who love gaming! This 5-day program focuses on healthy living and balance with technology by targeting mental and physical health to help teens become the most powerful version of themselves. Activities include high-ropes, woodworking, paintball, axe throwing, equine therapy, fly-fishing, mindfulness nature walk, and a cooking and exercise class. They also go to the National Videogame Museum!
10260 N. Central Expy., Ste. 270 Dallas, TX 75231 214-433-2721 escapingthe.com/experience
At Fort Wonder Summer Camps, campers engage in unique learning experiences, create lifelong memories, and spark new friendships. Featuring full-day Signature Camps, half-day Specialty Camps, and a wide variety of unique programs for campers entering pre-kindergarten through 6th grade, Fort Wonder makes it easy to build the most wonderful summer you could ever imagine!
Fort Wonder Summer Camps
4200 Country Day Lane, Fort Worth, TX 76109 682-402-7766 fortwondercamps.org
Unplug and reconnect with nature, adventure, and friends at Girl Scout camp!
We offer three camp properties, sleepaway and day camps with a variety of themes and activities. Join us at The STEM Center of Excellence, Camp Bette Perot, or Camp Gambill Horses. Crafts. Cooking. Drones. Sailing. Experience it all at a camp where you can be you!
Good Shepherd Episcopal School’s Summer Program provides students the opportunity to take risks and try new activities while being in a safe and nurturing environment.
We are excited to bring a unique blend of dynamic and academically rich programs, designed specifically for ages 12 months through 8th grade.
The program runs from May 30–August 4. 972-349-2400 gsnetx.org/camp
11110 Midway Road, Dallas, TX 75229 gsesdallas.org/summer summer@gsesdallas.org • 214-357-1610
Every girl’s dream is to be a Princess! Gotta Dance makes this dream come true with our Princess Dance Camp designed especially for 3–7 year olds! Camp includes Princess Ballet Class, Princess Story Time, Arts & Crafts, Jazz Lesson and Show and Tell. Camp is 9:30am to noon, Monday through Thursday. The week finishes with a show for the family. Tuition is $125 per week. Choose from June 5-8, June 12–12, June 26–29 or July 10–13.
3131 Custer Rd., Suite #195, Plano, TX 75075 972-769-0017 gottadanceplano.com
July 17–21, 2023 • 9am–12pm
Chess Camp is a super-fun, high-energy chess experience in which kids celebrate a new chess tactic each day with silly videos, music-driven puzzlers, colorful silicone Tactixbands, funny movies, and chess clock tourneys! Laughter, fast-clocks, and compelling teaching approaches make this camp the summer’s highlight. Have your breakthrough at chess camp with our great network of friends! Ages 6–12.
CARE Church, 1504 E. Campbell Rd. Richardson, TX 75081 205-541-2729 • theknightschool.com
Summer Ballet Workshop for intermediate and advanced dancers ages 10 and up, June 5–23. Daily ballet class plus pointe, variations, pas de deux, modern, & flamenco. Guest master teachers. Also adult ballet
Children’s ballet camps for ages 3–12, July 10–21. Daily ballet class with crafts and refreshments. Students will learn about the ballet Cinderella
Campers will be exploring the Ten Wonders of The Nest, which make up some of the most important characteristics of who we are and what we believe to be integral components in young children’s development. Campers will explore the wonders through various games, activities, field trips, and special events that promote the deep exploration of each topic, promote learning and build valuable skills for life
18303 Davenport Rd., Dallas, TX 75252 469-702-8860 • thenestschool.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, Frozen, Lion King, Legally Blonde, 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, Dallas, and Southlake
972-422-2575 • NTPA.org/camps
Texas Discovery Gardens hosts exciting, nature-themed week-long camps for ages 4–12 during several summer weeks. We incorporate STEAM and Social Emotional Learning topics into our daily activities and crafts. Most camp time will take place outside in our 7.5 acres of organic gardens with daily trips to our tropical butterfly house. Come explore with us!
3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Dallas, TX 75210 214-428-7476 x270 txdg.org/summer-camp-2023
Arlington-Mansfield Area
YMCA Summer Day Camp
No one does camp like the Y! Offered at locations all around the ArlingtonMansfield area, YMCA Summer Day Camp participants will find joy while having a blast in a safe, enriching environment, surrounded by positive role models. Our focus on achievement, relationships and belonging will help your child make new friends, develop independence, and try new things. We are confident we have the right camp for your child. Pick your desired experience and register today!
2200 S. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX 76013 817-274-9622 • amaymca.org/summer-day-camp
WORDS ELIZABETH
I COME FROM THREE GENERATIONS OF FLORISTS—my grandmother, aunt and my older sister—so I love flowers. Dahlias, Gerbera daisies, or a single ranunculus in a bud vase make my heart flutter, but as many native Texans agree, there is no topping the beauty of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes growing wild in the springtime.
Our state is known for its wildflowers—roughly 5,000 species of them—so for some springtime flower tourism with your family, I mapped out a few of my favorite flower festivals and garden destinations in North and Central Texas. Here you’ll walk among multicolored bluebonnets at their peak, a highly sought-after flower we’ve borrowed from the Dutch, and many more fresh blooms you may have never noticed.
For the widest of wide open spaces, start here at the official Bluebonnet City of Texas, about 30 miles south of Dallas. Ennis welcomes the public to explore 40 miles of trails that point you directly to the fields with the lushest flower growth. To navigate them, download the interactive Ennis Y’all mobile app, or pick up a printed map at the Ennis Welcome Center on Main Street.
The downtown district will be hopping with a full-blown festival of live music and kids’ activities the weekend of April 14–16, so visit then to make the most of your trip. Better still, follow up your bluebonnet frolicking with retro outdoor movie screening at Galaxy Drive-in (galaxydriveintheatre.com). // Ennis, 972/8784748; bluebonnettrail.org
This 15-acre urban nature park, located on the Southern Methodist University campus, recreates several native Texas environments with native grasses and a wildflower meadow full of bluebonnets along a one-mile network of walking trails.
Bring the kids during daylight hours, any day year-round, for a self-guided scavenger hunt and to learn about the flora and fauna, or join the guided tours expected return on Saturday mornings beginning in April. The garden tours are free, but you’ll definitely want to head inside the Bush Center, too, to see the new Freedom Matters exhibition of rare, historical documents. // Dallas, 214/200-4300; bushcenter.org
Even if you’re not an Aggie, it’s worth the drive south at least once to marvel the university’s signature maroon bluebonnets developed by two horticulturists back in the ‘80s. You can see the maroonbonnets—also called crimson bonnets or Alamo Fire— as well as pink and white varieties and traditional bluebonnets blooming through early to-mid April at the garden center, located behind AgriLife Center.
For no charge, visitors can walk the 27-acre garden, open daily from dawn to dusk. For extra kid-friendly fun, come visit on Saturday, April 22, during the free Hullabloom Fest, a morning of spring-inspired crafts and demonstrations. Your kids will learn all about pollinators and even help release live butterflies into the open air. // College Station, 979/314-2357; gardens.tamu.edu
Ever wonder why or how the highway roadsides in Texas get to be covered in colorful wildflowers each spring? For that we credit Texas Department of Transportation, which first began planting wildflowers along the roads in 1932, and Lady Bird Johnson (1912–2007). During her time as first lady, she lead the effort for Congress to pass the Highway Beautification Act of 1965, which encouraged wildflower planting and healthy landscapes with native plants, and limited billboards and junkyards alongside the federal highway system. Today you can visit her namesake wildflower center. // Austin, 512/232-0100; wildflower.org
This garden stands apart because it’s more than that, it’s a flower farm owned by two Dutch transplants and designed for you to handpick your own tulip bouquet. Here’s how it works: Grab a picking basket and go strolling between the wide rows of tulips (there are about 100 varieties) and select all the tulips your heart desires or budget allows (they’re $2.50 each). The staff will apply a temporary gel to the ends and wrap them up in paper for your ride home.
Texas-Tulips is located about an hour north of Dallas and open 10am to 8pm daily. Blooms usually last through early to midApril, weather depending. But it’s been a warm season so plan your visit soon before sellout. Day pass is free for children and $5 per person, and that includes the hay maze. // Pilot Point, 940/440-0232; texas-tulips.com
For flower lovers, the Dallas Blooms festival this spring, when the 500,000 spring-blooming bulbs (mostly tulips) take center stage, is the most gorgeous time of year to visit. That number bears repeating: half a million—
and that’s in addition to the hundreds of Japanese cherry trees and thousands more azaleas. The flower fest and its accompanying schedule of kid-focused entertainment (petting zoos, story times, live bird shows) officially runs through April 16. Free with regular admission: $20 adults; $12 children; under 2 free. Additional $3 for Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. // Dallas, 214/515-6615; dallasarboretum.org
Many more flowering trees, shrubs and vines well worth admiring grow here. This season, take a stroll through the Fuller and Horseshoe Gardens and by the Garden Club Council building to find blossoms such as the bright yellow Japanese kerria, Crossvine, and Oakleaf hydrangeas. If you really like hydrangeas, you’ll love the Chinese snowball, which are expected to bloom this April. Main garden admission from $12 for adults, $6 for children; under 6 free.
If you can, catch the tail end of the special exhibit World of Orchids in the Rainforest Conservatory, closing April 9, or come for the Spring Japanese Festival on April 22–23. No visit to the botanic garden is complete without stopping into the Japanese Garden and feeding the koi fish. // Fort Worth, 817/4634160; fwbg.org
FLOWERS BLOOM SO DOES HOPE.”
Lady Bird Johnson
Ann & Nate Levine Academy is an inclusive, dynamic, Jewish Day School which fosters creativity, critical thinking, and Jewish values while empowering its students with moral character, self-confidence and intellectual curiosity.
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➽ ABOVE: Its crystal clear waters and constant 72-degree temps make Spring Lake in San Marcos a favorite training spot for scuba divers and snorkelers too.
WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH
AIRBOAT, BARGE, CANOE, DINGHY—There just may be as many words for “boat” as there are for fish in the sea. So, we set out in search of the most family-friendly and most unique opportunities for you and the kids to get out onto the water this spring. Here’s what you’ll need to know for planning an excursion out in whatever vessel strikes your fancy.
What’s now called Texas State University’s Meadows Center for Water and the Environment—formerly the Aquarena Springs amusement park—continues to operate its glass-bottom boats rides through Spring Lake. The clear blue and green water of this aquiferfed freshwater lake makes it possible to peer through the boat’s glass panels at its center and to see all the fish and turtles.
Tickets are only $9.75 for adults; $6 for children; and under 3 free for boat rides offered daily between 9:30am and 4pm, but the best
time to come is on free Family Fun Days on select Saturdays each month. The next one falls on May 13, when kids can make a handmade gift for Mother’s Day and do Mother Earth-themed crafts. // San Marcos, 512/245-7590; mead owscenter.txst.edu
Outside of Venice, Mandalay Canal is one of a handful of destinations in the U.S. where you can enjoy an authentic gondola cruise.
A gondolier, dressed in a striped shirt and red scarf, steers the long and narrow boat through the Old World-style waterway, past a waterwall, and into Lake Carolyn.
These luxury cruises are a hit with romantic couples and for proposals, but they’re really open to all ages year-round. Gondola Adventures offers several cruise options, including a canopy-covered (electric) gondola to guard against the sun. The one-hour cruise includes chocolates and sparkling cider and runs $155 for two people, plus $25 per extra passenger. Children under 5 are free. Ask about the pizza cruises for $245 for up to eight passengers. // Las Colinas, 972/506-8037; gondola.com
On your next visit to Alamo City, take a stroll down the famed River Walk, and hop on the Go Rio electric barges. These river cruise boats, wrapped in colorful papel picado siding, operate as shuttles along 15 designated stops. Get all-day access from 10am–10pm for $20.50. Or you can join a 35-minute narrated cruise to learn about the city’s history and architecture. $14.50 for adults; $8.50 for children. For the most colorful sights during the 10-day citywide Fiesta this April (fiestasanantonio.org), come during the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on Monday, April 24. // San Antonio, 210/2274746; goriocruises.com
You’ll find the widest variety of boat tours on the Gulf Coast of Texas, Galveston, but none more exciting for kids than standing at the helm of this real-life “pirate” ship. This historic vessel is a restored, 205-foot-long, iron barque ship originally built in Scotland that now serves as a floating museum, telling the story of Galveston’s early immigrants and their voyage across the seas. Self-guided deck tours are available for all ages Tuesday–Sunday for $10 for adults; $7 for children; under 6 free.
To see the Elissa and five other visiting tall ships at full sail, pack your bags for the Tall Ships Festival April 13–16. Boarding and admission is $25 for adults and $15 for children, with more opportunities to join sailing excursions during the daytime and at twilight. // Galveston, 409/7657834, galvestonhistory.org
➽ ABOVE: Plan a date with your S.O. or treat the kids out to a luxury Gondola Adventures tour right here in Irving.
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13 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES KIDS WILL LOVE
Amon Carter Museum of American Art cartermuseum.org
817/738-1933
2 City of Roanoke roanoketexas.com/339/roanoke-roundup
817/491-2411
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The Cove at The Lakefront thecoveatthelakefront.com
214/618-2047
Join us for Itty-Bitty Art, Toddler Studio and Carter Playdate at the Carter. Our family programs offer playful experimentation, art making and unique opportunities for kids of all ages. See ad on page 33.
This May 6, North Texas Chevy Dealers presents the annual Roanoke Roundup street festival. There is plenty of free fun for the whole family. Visit roanoketexas.com/339/ roanoke-roundup to learn more. See ad on page 67.
A 42,000-square-foot, one-of-a-kind water park, The Cove is open year-round and fun for the whole family! Come play, surf and party with us at The Cove™! Visit our website for more information. See ad on page 53.
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Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden dallasarboretum.org
214/515-6615
Easter Weekend, April 7–9, featuring fun for the whole family! Enjoy a petting zoo and story time from 10am–2pm. Live bunny photos available for purchase 9:30am–2pm in Jonsson Color Garden. See ad on page 6. 5
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History fwmuseum.org
817/255-9300
Experience the extraordinary world of science and history! Explore a new Smithsonian exhibit, "Life in One Cubic Foot," open now through June 11! Check out our website for information on hours, admission and upcoming events. See ad on page 35. 6
Fort Worth Stockyards fortworthstockyards.com
817/625-9715
Fort Worth Zoo fortworthzoo.org
The historic district has transformed into a shopping, dining and entertainment destination, with festivals and events year-round. The maze, petting zoo and mini train rides are among many family-friendly activities the Fort Worth Stockyards offers. See ad on page 27. 7
817/759-7555
With 64 acres, the Fort Worth Zoo is home to nearly 7,000 animals and many exciting attractions. Plan your summer visit today! See ad on page 71. 8
Irving Archives and Museum irvingarchivesandmuseum.com
972/721-3700
Irving Archives and Museum is a community history museum packed with fun for the whole family! Experience history, travelling exhibitions and a Smithsonian Spark!Lab where young visitors get to explore the process of invention! See ad on page 55. 9
Irving Arts Center irvingartscenter.com
972/252-2787
Year-round family programs include story times, art classes, free art-filled family fun days, performances and camps. Explore 5 galleries and a sculpture garden for free. Irving Arts Center: It’s worth the trip! See ad on page 7. 10
Log Cabin Village logcabinvillage.org
817/392-5881
Escape the present and experience the past at Log Cabin Village, Fort Worth's 1800s living history museum! Enjoy fun activities like candle-dipping, a hands-on cabin, a one-room school house and much more. See ad on page 18. 11
Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department travelok.com/family
Near Wilburton, Oklahoma, Robbers Cave State Park brims with recreation-cave exploring, bouldering, horseback riding, hiking and more. PS: Stay in the renovated lodge to enjoy trail access from your backyard! Plan today at travelok.com/family See ad on page 4. 12
Reunion Tower reuniontower.com
214/296-9950
Shops at Highland Village theshopsathighlandvillage.com/events-sales
The iconic Reunion Tower is the top spot for family fun! Enjoy breathtaking views, photos ops and informative interactive touch screens at 470 feet above Dallas! See ad on page 10. 13
972/317-7500
Join us for an Earth Day Celebration on April 22 with kids crafts, vendors and more! Annual HV Art Festival on May 6 includes gallery-quality artist, live music, demonstrations, a bounce house and more. See ad on page 29.
“IT
So said Dallas news legend Tracy Rowlett more than 30 years ago when he appeared on the cover of DallasChild with his wife, Jill, and his son Michael. In the magazine, Rowlett spoke about television’s impact on society in an article that asked, “What’s TV doing to our kids?”
At the time, in 1990, children were estimated to spend about 38 hours a week in front of the tube.
Though he touted some benefits of TV for kids—positive role models and educational programming—Rowlett worried about what that much media might be doing to children.
Flash forward three decades and the issues around children and media have only grown more complex. Kids spend more time than ever watching screens—not just TVs, but also smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles and computers. Most American children spend about 3 hours a day watching TV, says the National Library of Medicine, and added together, all types of screen time can total 5 to 7 hours a day.
Television is hardly the primary concern these days, when children and parents must grapple with cyberbullying, body image and mental issues attributed to social media. But Rowlett’s words from 30 years ago ring true when it comes to what our kids are taking in: “Parents should sit down and actually watch what their children watch. You’d be amazed how quickly you get to know the child by watching with them.”
–Amanda Collins BernierSEEMS THAT as a society, we don’t communicate very well anymore.”COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HAYNSWORTH
Discover the world’s most awe-inspiring animals, visit new places and experience the best of wildlife conservation through hands-on, enriching exploration. Plus, members get exclusive savings and benefits that bring you closer to nature all year long.
With the best pediatric orthopedic experts in the world on staff at Scottish Rite for Children, talented athletes like Myson never have to settle for standard care. We don’t chase the standard. We set it—for ourselves, our peers and our patients. scottishriteforchildren.org
