DFWChild December 2023 / January 2024

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024

HOW TO SET BOUNDARIES WITH FAMILY

MEET THE BAKERMAMA

MAEGAN BROWN

T H E M A G A Z I N E PA R E N T S L I V E B Y I N D A L L A S -F O R T W O R T H

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SPECIAL NEEDS SIBLING SUPPORT & SENSORY FUN

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GREAT

WINTER EVENTS

THE 2024

ENCOURAGING

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PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST

RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH NEW FRONTIERS.

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pages / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 / J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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FEATURE 22 Raise a Reader An age-by-age guide to fostering a love for reading in kids words Gina Mayfield 26 The 2024 Private Schools List Our comprehensive directory of private schools across Dallas-Fort Worth

DEPARTMENTS NOTED 9 The After School Meltdown Why some kids lose it when they get home, and how to cope 12 By the Numbers / The 4-Day School Week A look at the educational trend 14 Sound Advice / Setting Boundaries Tips on communicating with grandparents

REAL MOMS 17 Mom Next Door / Maegan Brown A slice of life with Dallas mom of four, The BakerMama 20 Briefs / Bread & Butter Our Mom Next Door shares her favorite traditions, recipes and restaurants

➽ ABOVE // The BakerMama, Maegan Brown, dishes on food, family and finding balance.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KELSEY FOSTER; AUTISM TREATMENT CENTER; ISTOCK

9

PLAYBOOK

54 SPECIAL SECTION 49 The ‘Typical’ Sibling Supporting brothers and sisters of kids with special needs 52 Holiday Mode 14 Sensory-friendly and fun places to go this winter

61 Things To Do 28 family fun events this December and January 68 Family Fun / An Open Book The 5 most kid-friendly independent bookstores

COLUMNS 6 Hello / Press Pause If only kids came with a remote control 70 Dad Amongst Dudes / First-Year Survival Guide One father’s top tips

ON THE COVER Cover kid: Te’Ari, 6, of Princeton Photography: Nick Prendergast Hair/makeup: Joanna Hathcock / Kim Dawson Agency DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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hello / E D I T O R ’ S N O T E

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"I

CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S December already.”

As I lament the passage of another year, I hear my mom talking. The grown-ups were always bemoaning how quickly time flew by when I was a kid. And now, I know just what they meant. Time seems to move faster as you get older—and at lightning speed when it comes to watching your children grow.

If only kids came with a remote control. I’d push pause for a bit, to soak in my 6-year-old and his gap-toothed smile, and keep my youngest a precious 2-year-old, for just a little while longer. Instead, life as a mom feels like a hectic, magical blur.

But remember how different time felt as a kid? Summers stretched on for years and the countdown to Santa coming took eons. That’s because kids live in the moment. And if we meet them there, we can too.

In my house, we’ve been savoring small moments by making my first-grader’s reading homework a family affair. Every night, cuddled on the couch while my son reads us a story, I take them in. I study their features and sniff their heads. And time moves just a bit slower, if only for ten minutes.

It’s no secret that reading provides immense benefits to kids—it builds language skills, memory and empathy, among so many other things. And even a few minutes of reading together gives you and your child a chance to slow down and connect with each other. So when you’re feeling the urge to press pause, pick up a book.

This issue can help you make reading a habit in your household.

On page 22, we explore ways you can foster a love of books in kids of all ages. And for those who need an extra nudge, check out the kid-friendly independent bookstores on page 68—all have story times, special activities or even play spaces.

There’s so much more in these pages—our annual Private Schools List, expert advice and parenting resources. And of course, you’ll find plenty of events where you can soak in this holiday season with your littles.

There’s a lot of hustle and bustle this time of year. Slow down when you can. After all, time flies.

Here’s to 2024,

6

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

ABOVE // Amanda Collins Bernier with her sons Max and Owen.

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Happy to be part of your moment From the moment you enter our door to snuggling your new baby in your arms, we’re here to make your moment a safe, happy and healthy one.

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THE AFTER SCHOOL MELTDOWN Why some kids lose it when they get home, and how to deal W O R D S E R I N H AY ES B U R T

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OES THIS SCHOOL DAY SOUND FAMILIAR: Your child is happy and upbeat when they leave in the morning, and by all accounts, they have a great day. But the minute they get home the switch flips. Yelling, crying, whining, moodiness—an altogether different kid than the one you dropped off at school.

It’s not just your child. It’s a phenomenon called after-school restraint collapse and it manifests in different ways in kids of all ages.

Younger children may completely melt down or be unable to cope following a full day of school. In older elementary kids, it may look more like a lack of impulse control—picking on their sibling or freaking out over something they are usually able to ignore. Tweens and teens might just not want to talk. No matter their age, after school can be a tough time for kids. And most likely, they’re going to take it out on you.

WHAT AFTER-SCHOOL MELTDOWNS REALLY ARE

School-aged kids’ brains are learning executive function. It’s essential DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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noted / A F T E R S C H O O L M E L T D O W N for making it through a school day, but it’s could help them unwind, that’s not actually a complex skill set involving three separate the case. “All that’s doing is just repressing all skills: working memory, mental flexibility, those emotions instead of letting them kind of and emotional restraint. It’s these skills process and be active. So maybe they do have that allow kids to coexist in a classroom some TV time or maybe they do have some together. In fact, at the lower grades, often tablet time, but that’s also after they’ve been the entire first week of school is devoted to able to just kind of play,” she says. strengthening kids’ executive function so the Instead, encourage playtime outside if classroom isn’t chaotic all year. Kids use their possible. Children process their emotions working memory to learn classroom rules through free play, not talking about their and put them into practice. They use mental day like adults do. And being outdoors flexibility to be able to shift helps them physically and from task to task and make mentally reset. So save the NO MATTER daily transitions. Emotional iPad or video games for later.

THEIR AGE, regulation helps them remain Those methods of play have AFTER SCHOOL more guardrails and don’t let calm when frustrated, annoyed, or angry. kids use their imagination CAN BE A If executive function is a as much.

TOUGH TIME muscle, after-school restraint For older kids who aren’t FOR KIDS. AND game to play, suggest a walk collapse is when that muscle cramps up; they just can’t hold outside, a hike or journaling, MOST LIKELY, it together anymore. When THEY’RE GOING says Cosha Joseph, a therapist they are with familiar people at Circle of Life Behavior TO TAKE IT in a familiar place—like Solutions in Dallas. “It can be OUT ON YOU. home—they let that muscle anything,” she says of helping relax. It presents differently in them unwind. “Figure out all kids, but hitting, crying, tempers, attitudes, exactly what makes them happy. It can be shortness—these are all signs that their execulistening to music, different things like that.” tive function is worn out.

Routine can also be helpful to kids who are prone to after-school struggles. When kids HOW TO DEAL IN THE MOMENT are spent and tired, knowing what’s going to Chelsea Acree, a mom of three in Rockwall, happen next can help them relax, says Milhas a system for avoiding these kinds of lican. “They know we’re coming home and meltdowns. It involves healthy food, outdoor in the first 20 minutes, everyone’s going to be playtime and no small talk. “After school, in their own room playing, or we’re going to my kids know they can pick a fruit or veggie come home and we’re going to have a snack, snack and one snack from the pantry, and and then we’re going on a walk,” she says. In I don’t ask them about their day,” she says. the mornings, make sure everyone knows “Then we go on a walk, bike or scooter ride what the day holds so there are no afteraround the block. They seem much happier school surprises. to talk about their day then, so I make sure to spend a little time walking by each one to give CHECK IN WITH YOURSELF them my full attention.”

Lastly, know where your head is before your kids Emily Millican, a licensed clinical social come home or you pick them up. “What are you worker at Terra Therapies in Fort Worth, doing so that you can kind of be prepared for says this strategy works for a few reasons. At your kiddo?” asks Millican. “Have I taken a minschool, kids often eat very early or don’t get ute to do something that’s healthy for me so that enough time to eat all their lunch, so by the I can be ready and I’m not also melting down?” time they get home their blood sugar can be As easy as it is for us to pick up our phone very low leading to crankiness or anxiousness. to scroll in the pickup line, often the content So make snacks a priority after school, she that we find isn’t soothing and affirming, it’s says. Provide items with a good mix of easily divisive and grating. We might see a work absorbed sugar and fiber, such as fruit or vegemail that is stressful, then the kids get in the etables, and some sustaining protein to help car and start screaming, and it’s not a good them get to dinner, like a granola bar, cheese time for anyone. stick, beef jerky, or nuts. Consider taking While you’re waiting in the pick-up line these in the car with you when you pick them or at the bus stop, have a snack for yourself, up, and don’t ask too much of them until the or turn on a song that puts you in a good hangry is gone. place. Take a few deep breaths in the quiet Then, let them play. “It’s their way to relax of your car and de-stress. Acknowledge your and let off whatever that steam is from the mood—are you hungry, angry, lonely, or day,” says Millican. tired? All four of those feelings impact our But playtime doesn’t mean screentime, she state of mind, and we know kids often reflect warns. While you might think giving a kid our own attitudes back to us, both at our best their iPad or turning on their favorite show and at our worst.

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noted / B Y T H E N U M B E R S

600%

The increase in the number of districts nationally that moved to a four-day schedule since 1999

24

THE NUMBER OF STATES THAT HAVE AT LEAST ONE DISTRICT ON A FOUR-DAY SCHEDULE

A by-the-numbers look at the trend COMPILED BY AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

THREE-DAY WEEKENDS, EVERY WEEK? It sounds like every kid’s dream, and for many it’s becoming reality as more and more schools are moving to a four-day school week schedule. Just since 2020, more than 200 districts across the country have made the switch, including many in Texas. Here in DFW, Anna ISD moved this year to a four-day schedule, the start of a three-year pilot program. And public charter schools including Life School, with campuses in Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Oak Cliff and Waxahachie, and Trivium Academy in Carrollton have also adopted the four-day week.

For many districts, the switch comes to down teacher retention, recruitment and cost savings. Others tout potential benefits for students and staff, like improved attendance and better morale. Still, some worry that fewer days in the classroom could lead to students falling behind or put a burden on families who would need to find childcare.

How does it all add up? Here’s a look at the numbers.

70+

THE NUMBER OF DISTRICTS IN TEXAS OPERATING ON A FOUR-DAY SCHEDULE 12

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

75,600

The number of minutes Texas requires public schools to operate per year

40

TO

MINUTES

1

HOUR

The average increase in the length of the school day for schools on a four-day schedule

36

The average number of weeks in a school year at most Texas schools

38

THE NUMBER OF WEEKS IN THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR AT ANNA ISD

180

Average number of school days in most U.S. states, including Texas

SOURCES: ANNA ISD, EDUCATION COMMISSION OF THE STATES, NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE LEGISLATURES, THE TEXAS STANDARD, LIFE SCHOOL

THE 4-DAY SCHOOL WEEK

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noted / A S K A N E X P E R T

SOUND ADVICE

Your parenting questions and dilemmas, solved EDITED BY

SETTING BOUNDARIES WITH THE GRANDPARENTS

THE EXPERT: Emily Oakes, LPC Center for Counseling & Family Relationships, Fort Worth; ccfam.com DFWChild Mom Approved

Q: How do I enforce boundaries with my parents when it comes to my kids? I set rules for my children, but their grandparents don’t follow them. –A mom in Dallas County A: Boundaries are defined by our values and what is important to us. Boundaries actually facilitate, not limit, relationships with those that we care about.

Expression of boundaries should be done with confidence and clarity. To best communicate a boundary often requires planning and reflection, and empathy is a valuable tool during this stage. Although boundaries define a limit for us, they can also help us notice where we might need to be more flexible than firm to honor a relationship.

In this case, parents are concerned that a boundary they have established for their children is not being honored by the grandparents. Assuming that the boundary was communicated with empathy and respect, it appears that the lack of respect for the parents’ request has caused enough of a rupture for the parents that it is time for it to be addressed. This can be tricky for parents, so first, they should think about their goal— is it that the rule be followed at all costs?

Could enforcing the boundary cause an even 14

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

bigger rupture to occur, harming not only their relationship with the parents, but also the children’s long-term relationship with their grandparents?

A next step might be to jot down how grandparents not following this rule might impact the children in a day, a week, a month, or even a year. If the impact isn’t much to worry about, parents might decide that this is a place where it would be appropriate to be more flexible and accept that sometimes their children will be fed cheesepuffs instead of fresh fruit or stay up later than their normal bedtime. It may mean that they need to offer an alternative or even that they need to accept that when their children are with their grandparents, the grandparents are in charge of the rules.

If the impact is larger, parents need to decide how to follow through on setting a boundary and if it may be worth the risk of a long-term rupture.

Finally, they should consider how to communicate their boundary. It may look something like this: “Mom and Dad, we know the kids are important to you and how much you love spending time with them and we value that. We have asked you to follow through with some things when you have the kids, but it seems like it has been hard to follow. What is most important to you when you are with the kids?

Maybe what we are asking isn’t aligning with that and we can do to help us both feel successful. If we cannot align our boundaries and goals, we need to find a way to move forward to keep things from becoming confusing for the kids, so they know what to expect from each of us.”

Each of these steps should bring clarity as you make decisions with the best interest of your child and the hope for your relationship with your parents in mind.

Have a parenting question you’d like our experts to answer? Message us on Instagram @dfwchildmag or email editorial@dfwchild.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTER FOR COUNSELING & FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS ; ISTOCK

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

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real moms.

RÉSUMÉ

➽

Known for her viral snack boards, Maegan Brown credits her kids as the taste testers who help her perfect her recipes.

TITLE

Blogger and cookbook author AGE

42

LIVES IN

Dallas

HAILS FROM

Ada, Oklahoma CHILDREN

Baker, 12; Bryce and Barret, 10; Brookie, 7 ALMA MATER

University of Oklahoma, degree in marketing and management SPOUSE

Brandon Brown, executive at Albertsons WHERE TO CONNECT

thebakermama.com; Instagram @thebakermama

INTERVIEW AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

mom next door /

MAEGAN BROWN

COURTESY OF KELSEY FOSTER

A taste of life as The BakerMama

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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real moms / M O M N E X T D O O R

M

AEGAN BROWN WAS A BRAND-NEW MOM with no professional cooking experience when she first launched The BakerMama with a recipe for peanut butter chocolate chunk cookies. Today, almost 12 years and a thousand recipes later, she’s a bestselling author who just released her third cookbook, Brilliant Bites, featuring mini versions of classic foods. “I’ve always loved to cook and bake—I grew up in a family that valued that, where food was a big part of lives,” she says. “So bringing people together with food and entertainment is really important to me.”

But Brown is just as passionate about her other job—Mom. Here the Dallas mom of four opens up about raising kids, creating new recipes and how parenthood has changed her.

Food Allergy | Seasonal Allergy | Asthma | Eczema

Pediatric Allergy Care

DFWCHILD: HOW DID YOU

3x DFWChild Mom Approved Doctor (2016, 2018, 2023)

BECOME THE BAKERMAMA? MB: Food was very important in my family growing up—we hosted a lot, had family meals around the table—and that was passed down to me. I love to entertain and I love to bake and cook. In business school we had this little 500-square-foot apartment, and we’d pack it with whoever wanted to come over. I’d make cake balls and piles of brownies and cookies. My husband would be barbequing all kinds of meat.

After we moved to Dallas a friend who worked for General Mills told me about an opportunity with Gold Medal Flour. They were looking for an everyday blogger and he thought I should apply. I had a 6-month-old at the time and I wasn’t really looking to get back into work right away, but I had that itch to do something other than stay home with my baby. I had never blogged or taken pictures of food before, but I applied. I called it The BakerMama and created a mock blog.

And they chose me!

The day I got the call my husband came home and I said, ‘Let’s celebrate, let’s open a bottle of champagne!’ But I was also feeling kind of nauseous that day, so I said, ‘Actually, Let’s take a pregnancy test first.’ Sure enough I was pregnant and we found out a little later that it was twins.

Nana Mireku MD, FACAAI

Board Certified Allergist (Pediatric & Adult)

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AND YOU STILL TOOK THE JOB? I was so excited and passionate about this opportunity that I stuck with it. I prepped everything while I was pregnant to have three months’ worth of recipes ready when the twins arrived.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO BRANCH OFF ON YOUR OWN? Two years into it, I wanted to share more than recipes with flour in them. It gave me the opportunity to share what I was feeding my kids as they grew older. Truly everything I share is what we eat as a family, what we enjoy and what we entertain with. Like my family, my recipes have evolved over time.

HOW DO YOU COME UP WITH ALL YOUR RECIPES? My brain just never shuts down when it comes to food! I love getting in the kitchen and having fun with different foods. I love grocery shopping; I find a lot of inspiration there. If I see something that sparks an idea, I have to buy it and I’ll immediately run home and try it. I have notes on my phone that I’m constantly adding to—I’ll be in the carpool line or I’ll be at a sports game and I’ll think of something and I have to make a note of it. I probably have hundreds of ideas in that note that I haven’t even gotten to yet.

6 Weeks-Transitional Kindergarten

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After School Care

“FIND SOMETHING YOU LOVE AND WORK REALLY HARD AT IT, BUT ALSO KNOW THAT BALANCE IS IMPORTANT.” WHAT RECIPE IS ON REPEAT IN YOUR HOUSE? I make my Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup almost every week, even in the summer. My kids eat it so well. Twice a week I make banana chocolate chip muffins.

It’s the only thing my oldest will for-sure eat for breakfast. If I do not have those, he won’t eat breakfast and then here comes the mom guilt.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR KIDS LEARN FROM THE BAKERMAMA? Find something you love and work really hard at it, but also know that balance is important. They see how hard both my husband and I work but we try to show them that there has to be a balance. Family is our priority.

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF HAVING FOUR KIDS? Quality time with each kid can be hard.

I have this perfect idea in my head, and then life happens. You never know when somebody is going to have their moment or when a kid is going to need you most.

When they were younger it was physically exhausting, and now it’s emotionally and mentally exhausting because they’re in such important stages of their personalities and experiences right now.

HOW HAS MOTHERHOOD CHANGED YOU? Before having kids I was much more structured. They really helped me to step back and be like ‘OK, that’s not important.’

You truly have to prioritize where you want to spend your time and your energy. Sometimes I step back and say it doesn’t matter that that table’s all messy. I don’t need to do that extra load of laundry or organize all the shoes today.

Or the carpool fell through and I need to go pick up a kid, so instead of that meal I was going to make tonight we’re going to get Chick-fil-A. I let it go and try not to worry so much about everything going as planned. I give myself some grace now.

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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real moms / B R I E F S

BREAD & BUTTER Maegan Brown shares her favorite traditions, recipes and restaurants INTERVIEW

1

Piling into the car to go look at Christmas lights and making holiday themed snacking boards are among Brown’s favorite traditions with her kids this time of year.

But most special is a horse-drawn carriage ride through Highland Park.

“The whole town just lights up,” she says of the elaborately decorated neighborhoods. “You have some hot cocoa and just take it all in.”

A D D TO C A RT

2

While Brown bops around to different grocery stores every week (her favorite for browsing is Central Market), she has a newfound affinity for online grocery shopping. “I was anti grocery pickup or delivery for the longest time … I was worried that by not going into the store I wouldn’t be inspired to try something new or make something different. But a lot of the grocery apps suggest different ingredients based on what you like and keep your history of what you’ve bought before. It’s a mom-hack I should have started long ago,” she laughs.

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3

DA LL A S D I N I N G

When Brown wants a break from the kitchen and a special night out, she heads to Dallas’s Sister restaurant. “It’s a really thoughtful place and every time we go it never fails—it’s so satisfying and the experience is always special,” she says. The charred octopus, wild “boaranaise,” pesto fusilli and Moroccan spiced chicken are among her favorites on the menu.

And when feeling adventurous, Brown likes Namo, a West Village sushi spot with ingredients sourced from Japan. “We love enjoying their Omakase nights whenever possible or we just let our sushi chef guide us through the fresh selections on and off the menu,” she says. “The sushi is always seasonal, fresh and creatively served.”

SISTER // 2808 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 214/888-8660; sempresister.com NAMO // 3699 McKinney Ave., Suite 305, Dallas, 214/484-5151; namosushi.com

4

G O -TO G O O D I E

With sprinkles, red and green M&Ms and adorably tiny gingerbread men, Brown’s Christmas Crunch Mix is a festive treat to make with kids.

“And it’s great for gifting,” she says.

“Put it in little tins or baggies.” Find the recipe at thebakermama.com.

TH E B E AUT Y O F BOA R DS

5

Brown’s Insta-worthy snacking boards and bestselling cookbook Beautiful Boards took off for a reason. “I think it changed the way a lot of people entertain and host, but it’s also so good for families,” she says. “We enjoy salad boards very regularly at our house where everybody builds their own salad with a variety of toppings and just a big bowl of lettuce in the middle. And we do build-your-own baked potato boards where I put a pile of baked potatoes in the middle and a bunch of toppings. Everyone gets to make their own meal and own it. So with the kids I don’t have the pushback of ‘I don’t want what you put on my plate.’ I’m like, 'You put it on your plate.’”

COURTESY OF KELSEY FOSTER ; ISTOCK; MAEGAN BROWN; BEAUTIFULBOARDS, CREDIT ROCK POINT PUBLISHING

H O LI DAY TR A D ITI O N S

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

Discover Merryhill Schools— Creating leaders of tomorrow since 1949.

At Merryhill Arlington, we combine rigorous academics and social-emotional skill development with a personalized approach to learning in which teachers focus on the strengths of each child.

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE Thursday, January 18 6:00 - 8:00 PM

NOW ENROLLING Merryhill Arlington 6 weeks - Grade 8

711 West Arbrook Blvd Arlington, TX 76015

MerryhillDallas.com

•

(817) 854-8346

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

21

22

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

RAISE A

READER

ISTOCK (2)

An age-by-age guide to fostering a love for reading in kids WORDS GINA MAYFIELD

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

23

of your first child, well-meaning friends and family offer a laundry list of do’s and don’ts that involve everything from feeding and sleeping down to doing the laundry itself.

But mixed among the chores and warnings, there’s sweet advice for creating joy and peaceful moments: Read to your child.

As simple as it sounds, the benefits and great rewards of reading from birth and through every stage of a child’s development can last a lifetime. Most parents, when they think back on their own childhood, can still rattle off the titles of books that meant something special to them decades ago.

Books matter, more than just for happy memories. Children whose parents read them five books a day start kindergarten having heard a million more words than those whose parents didn’t read to them. And if reading five books sounds a little ambitious, consider this: Just one picture book a day can expose your child to about 78,000 words a year. And studies show that the number of words a child hears profoundly impacts language development and literacy.

A love of reading opens kids up to new ideas, sets them up for academic success and fosters critical thinking and empathy for others.

So, how do you bring up a kid who associates books with fun and adventure? Here’s an ageby-age guide to raising a reader.

THE BABY YEARS

Let’s be real—you might feel a little silly propping up a tiny human so they can see the pages of a book you’ve chosen. But reading is about a lot more than vocabulary words.

“It’s that whole social activity of give and take.

There’s also the idea that stories come out of these books, so books are interesting,” says Dr. Sheryl Frierson, who’s worked with all levels of readers as the medical director of Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders at Scottish Rite for Children in Dallas. She’s also a UT Southwestern associate professor of developmental and behavioral pediatrics. She notes that reading to infants also teaches them how to use a book. “You hold it up so the pictures are right side up, you turn from left to right. You learn a lot about how books are structured.”

Research tells us that children who are exposed to a lot of words at home during their infancy and early childhood are more ready to learn when it comes time to go to school. “Talking with your young child is really important, however, reading typically exposes them to a wider variety of vocabulary words that we don’t typically use in regular conversations,” says Frierson.

Even newborns benefit from the physical connection, the sound of your voice and hearing the rhythm and tempo of the words in a book. Live and in-person language, focused on the child, matter, so phoning in your favorite true crime podcast or e-book won’t work here.

24

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

6 TIPS

FOR READING TO TODDLERS

Dr. Sheryl Frierson, medical director of Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders at Scottish Rite for Children in Dallas, offers these expert tips for making shared reading more enjoyable for toddlers.

1. Read with enthusiasm.

Be excited and use different voices—make it fun!

2. Respond to the child’s attempts to look at and play with books.

3. Read stories

that include rhythms and rhymes.

4. Follow the child’s

interest. Allow them to pick what they want to read.

5. Read the child’s favorite

stories and rhymes over and over again.

6. Engage children in

reading just long enough for them to stay engaged. When they’re disengaged, move on to something else.

Make eye contact with your baby and respond when they light up and attempt to make sounds mimicking the ones they hear in a book. Get the rest of their senses involved with sensory board books such as the colorful See, Touch, Feel with its raised textures, finger trails and (spoiler alert!) mirror at the end of the book.

For most babies, those senses might involve taste, and that’s OK. “Those cloth and board books are durable and nontoxic for them to put in their mouths because that’s how they explore the world,” Frierson says.

And don’t feel like you have to wait years before taking your baby to your local library’s storytime for littles. “We call it toddler storytime, but we want babies there too. It’s building a culture of reading with a positive experience that includes song and play. It’s good exposure to hearing and sharing stories,” says Lisa Zinkie, who spent more than a decade as a school librarian for Fort Worth ISD and is now the manager at the Hampton-Illinois Library, a branch of the Dallas Public Library.

TODDLERS: AGES 1–3

At this age, children absorb all that books have to offer, far beyond new words and language. “They’re learning what things mean, they’re learning new categories of things such as animals, and how horses and dogs and cows fit into this category. That’s different than people or trucks. So they’re learning a lot about the structure of the language,” Frierson explains.

As you’re reading to a toddler, avoid shooting for a quick coverto-cover rush job, even if it’s bedtime and you’re trying not to fall asleep yourself. Think about reading throughout the day, not just when it’s time to get out your beloved childhood copy of Goodnight Moon. Stop to respond to your children’s questions and comments or point out any interesting similarities between the story and your own lives. Talk about not just what you’re reading, but what you’re seeing in the pictures.

Beyond your own childhood favorites, know that your children will establish their own thoughts, preferences and opinions on books. Depending on your toddler’s development, they may be ready to walk around the library and make a few selections of their own. “I would definitely let them pick out some books themselves.

I’m a huge proponent of free choice in reading. A lot of times, kids don’t want to read what they don’t pick,” Zinkie says.

That means you may find yourself reading the same book to your child, day after day. “That’s not a problem. Anybody who has children knows that the things they like to do, they like to do over and over again,” says Frierson. “When they enjoy a book, they’ll go back to that same book over and over again.

Sometimes kids may even memorize a favorite book. They’re still spending time in a book, in a story, learning vocabulary words, attaching the pictures to the words they’re hearing.” Pay attention to what it is about those particular books that engage your child and seek out other books by that author or ask a librarian for similar recommendations.

One last thing to keep in mind at this age: “When children are choosing books, it’s very important for them to be able to see themselves in them. Having stories about people that look like them helps keep their interest, makes them feel validated as a human and

ISTOCK (3)

SOON AFTER THE BIRTH

helps them find their place in the world,” Zinkie says. That may mean size, skin color, abilities or religion.

And when children read books that have someone different in it, well, that comes with its own set of benefits. “Reading is a beautiful tool for developing empathy. There’s a saying in library circles that books need to be windows and mirrors,” she says.

EMERGING READERS: AGES 4–6

The wonder of reading really comes to life when your child starts to identify letters and even sight words, not only in books but out in the real world. While reading to your child, allow them to read to you too, first by pointing out letters and words you know they’ll recognize. The goal here is to make the experience feel organic and not like a pop quiz. Later, take turns reading full pages at a time.

You can begin to point out letters and words in the same way you were pointing out pictures and the sounds different animals make.

“You can say, ‘Your name is Ben, that starts with a B. Do you see any B's on this page?’ That engages them in paying attention to those letters. Even if they’re not ready to read words, they may be able to find the first letter in their own name,” Frierson says.

When your child starts coming home from school with leveled readers and book logs, share a sense of wonder about the topic. A simple, “I didn’t know that about monkeys!” will do, so your child can see that even you learn from books.

Continue reading books they’ll understand but can’t quite read on their own level yet. Beyond the library, take them to local, independent bookstores. Make reading about fun and adventure.

EARLY READERS: AGES 7–9

At this age, we want to keep those positive vibes flowing but that can be hard to do when your child’s book selections may leave you scratching your head. But consider their preferences from their point of view.

Comics-inspired books and graphic novels talk about things that are age-appropriate for kids. “They’re not things we think about, but they are things children that age are thinking about. So it meets them where their interests are. Anytime they’re practicing getting the meaning of the letters on the page, that’s good reading.” says Frierson.

“Some parents are hesitant. They’re like, ‘These are just comic books,’” says Zinkie, who once did a talk at a state library convention about the benefits of graphic novels and manga, a genre of Japanese comic books and graphic novels. “I let parents know these books almost make the child’s brain work twice as hard because they have to interpret both the words and the pictures.”

Graphic novels can also be a stepping stone for struggling readers. “Helping a kid find that magic book that turns them on to reading, that makes them want to read more, is so huge. If that can be a graphic novel, then why not? I think all reading is valid,” Zinkie says.

A love of reading opens kids up to new ideas, sets them up for academic success and fosters critical thinking and empathy for others.

READ ON

Want to learn more about raising a reader? Check out these books with practical advice for parents and fun activities to do together.

The Read-Aloud Handbook,

by Jim Trelease

Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever,

by Mem Fox

The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids, by Sarah Mackenzie

The Book Whisperer: Awakening the Inner Reader in Every Child,

by Donalyn Miller

At this age, continue to read books to your children above their reading level so that they get to hear fluent reading and learn about new things. If they express a preference for e-books, don’t be afraid to indulge them.

“Times are changing. Children are in a digital world, and they are going to be reading things on screen,” Frierson says. Think of e-books as an extension, another way to read. “Sometimes the book is something that you hold and it has pages. But sometimes the book is on your iPad and you turn the pages by swiping, but the same principles apply. You read left to right, you go from top to bottom, you’re going to turn pages.”

Frierson notes that in many digital formats there are even pictures to look at and words that link to their definitions.

Many local libraries offer the Libby app for enjoying e-books, audiobooks, magazines and streaming services, that helps kids follow along. “That can get them going more than just regular books,” Zinkie says.

MIDDLE GRADE STUDENTS: AGES 9–12

As children get older and their interests expand, the family schedule may get tighter and your children’s curiosity may shift. Help them find books about the activities they’re involved in or new ideas that pique their enthusiasm. “Engage them in the things they’re showing an interest in,” says Frierson.

“The key thing is letting kids choose what they read. That’s super important,” Zinkie says. Keep things positive and never use reading as a punishment.

Make books part of your life in different ways. Play an audiobook in the car on the way to practice or the big game, then talk about what’s going on in the story. “Reading is reading is reading, whether you’re listening to it, whether you’re reading it,” Zinkie says.

By this age, your children may have their own library of sorts filled with treasures collected over the years. Make sure those books are readily available and keep them organized and sorted. Consider purchasing a few books to finish off a prized collection or, just for fun, order a personal library kit that comes complete with card catalog checkout cards, bookplates and a date stamp. When your children reach adulthood, those books and timestamps will take on a whole new meaning.

And at every age, lead by example. When it comes to raising a reader, like all things with parenting, model the behavior you want to see.

“Your kids should see you reading for enjoyment as well,” says Frierson says. “When they see that you do that, they will copy you.”

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

25

SCHOOL

ADDRESS

WEBSITE

PRIVATE

CITY

2024 Addison

Greenhill School

4141 Spring Valley Road

greenhill.org

Addison

Trinity Christian Academy

17001 Addison Road

trinitychristian.org

Allen

Guthrie School, The

598 Old Cluster Road

guthrieschool.com

Allen

Inspired Learning Academy

601 S. Greenville Ave.

inspiredlearningacademy.org

Argyle

Liberty Christian School

1301 S. Highway 377

libertychristian.com

Argyle

Selwyn School

2270 Copper Canyon Road

selwynschool.org

Arlington

Burton Adventist Academy

4611 Kelly Elliott Road

burtonacademy.org

Arlington

Children’s University

4621 Park Springs Blvd.

childrensuniversity.com

Arlington

Grace Preparatory Academy

3300 W. I-20

graceprep.org

Arlington

Green Oaks School

500 Houston St.

greenoaksinc.org

Arlington

Merryhill School

711 W. Arbrook Blvd.

merryhillschool.com

Arlington

Montessori Academy of Arlington, The

3428 W. Arkansas Lane

tmaonline.org

Arlington

Northstar School

4620 Park Springs Blvd.

northstarschool.net

Arlington

Oakridge School, The

5900 W. Pioneer Pkwy.

theoakridgeschool.org

Arlington

Pantego Christian Academy

2201 W. Park Row

pantego.com

Arlington

Park Row Christian Academy

915 W. Park Row

parkrowchristian.net

Arlington

St. Joseph Catholic School

2015 SW Green Oaks Blvd.

stjosephtx.org

Arlington

St. Maria Goretti Catholic School

1200 S. Davis Drive

smgschool.org

Arlington

Saint Paul’s Preparatory Academy

6900 U.S. Highway 287

stpaulsprep.com

Azle

Azle Christian School

1801 S. Stewart St.

azlechristianschool.org

Bartonville

Harvest Christian Academy - Lantana

2200 E. Jeter Road

lantana.hcasaints.org

Bedford

Midcities Montessori

209 Harwod Road, Ste. B

midcitiesmontessori.com

Burleson

Holy Cross Christian Academy

1233 Tarver Road

hccaburleson.com

Carrollton

Oak Crest Private School

1200 E. Jackson Road, Building 2

oakcrestschool.org

Carrollton

Prince of Peace Christian School & Early Learning Center

4004 Midway Road

popcs.org

Carrollton

St. Anthony School, The

2040 N. Denton Drive

thestanthonyschool.com

Colleyville

Covenant Christian Academy

901 Cheek Sparger Road

covenantchristian.net

Colleyville

Crown of Life Lutheran School

6605 Pleasant Run Road

colschool.org

Colleyville

Inspire Academy

55 Main St., Ste. 280

inspireacademytx.com

Colleyville

Waypoint Montessori

1513 Hall Johnson Road

waypointmontessori.org

Crowley

Nazarene Christian Academy

2001 E. Main St.

nazarenechristianacademy.org

Dallas

Acton Academy Lakewood

2443 Abrams Road

actonlakewood.org

Dallas

Akiba Yavneh Academy

12324 Merit Drive

akibayavneh.org

Dallas

Alcuin School

6144 Churchill Way

alcuinschool.org

Dallas

All Saints Catholic School

7777 Osage Plaza Pkwy.

allsaintsdallas.org

Dallas

Ann & Nate Levine Academy, Weinreb Early Childhood

18011 Hillcrest Road

levineacademy.org

Dallas

Bishop Dunne Catholic School

3900 Rugged Drive

bdcs.org

Dallas

Bishop Lynch High School

9750 Ferguson Road

bishoplynch.org

Dallas

Calvary Lutheran School

9807 Church Road

calvarydallas.org

Dallas

Cambridge School of Dallas, The

3202 Royal Lane

cambridgedallas.org

Dallas

Campbell Christian Academy

6623 Villa Road

campbellchristianacademy.com

Dallas

Choices Leadership Academy

18106 Marsh Lane

choicesleadership.org

Dallas

Christ the King Catholic School

4100 Colgate Ave.

cks.org

Dallas

Coram Deo Academy - Dallas Campus

6930 Alpha Road

cdalions.org

Dallas

Covenant School, The

7300 Valley View Lane

covenantdallas.com

Dallas

Dallas Academy

950 Tiffany Way

dallas-academy.com

Dallas

Dallas Christian Academy

4025 N. Central Expressway

dallaschristianacademy.org

Dallas

Dallas International School

6039 Churchill Way

dallasinternationalschool.org

Dallas

Dallas Lutheran School

8912 Stults Road

dallaslutheranschool.com

Dallas

Episcopal School of Dallas, The

4100 Merrell Road

esdallas.org

•

= LEARNING DIFFERENCES

26

•

= SPECIAL NEEDS

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

•

= GIFTED

•

= NONTRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

•

= INFORMATION FROM 2023 LIST

GRADES OFFERED

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

UNIFORM

ANNUAL TUITION

SCHOLARSHIPS

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

1950

None

Pre-K–12

1,377

No

$30,480–$38,050

1970

Christian–Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

1,471

Yes

$10,620–$27,830

Yes

Yes

2014

None

Preschool–5

130

Yes

$14,800–$19,300

Yes

No

2017

None

5–12

30

No

$9,970

No

Yes

1983

Christian

Preschool–12

1,290

Yes

$10,225–$21,035

Yes

No

1957

None

Pre-K–12

135

Yes

$13,300–$30,650

Yes

Yes

1911

Adventist

Preschool–12

265

Yes

$4,500–$8,500

Yes

Yes

1995

None

Preschool–6

200

Yes

$6,000–$15,000

No

Yes

1992

Christian

Kindergarten–12

500

Yes

$6,575–$12,950

Yes

No

2000

Christian

Kindergarten–12

37

No

$13,000

Yes

No

1988

None

Preschool–8

230

Yes

$10,441

No

No

1981

None

Preschool–6

195

No

$9,380–$16,623

Yes

No

2005

None

7–12

37

Yes

$19,150

Yes

Yes

1979

None

Preschool–12

700

Yes

$12,180–$28,280

Yes

No

1963

Christian

Preschool–12

640

Yes

$2,000–$17,500

Yes

No

1968

Christian–Nondenomiational

Preschool–8

260

Yes

$3,000–$8,300

No

Yes

1995

Catholic

Pre-K–8

354

Yes

$3,200-$10,204

No

No

1954

Catholic

Preschool–8

160

Yes

$8,500–$10,160

Yes

Yes

1988

Christian

Preschool–12

261

Yes

$9,950–$13,300

No

Yes

2003

Christian

Pre-K–12

240

Yes

$6,500–$9,000

Yes

No

2020

Christian

Preschool–12

220

Yes

$5,000–$11,000

Yes

No

2015

None

Pre-K–12

50

No

$11,000

Yes

Yes

1993

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–9

240

Yes

$3,750–$10,500

Yes

No

1999

None

Preschool–8

60

No

$11,950–$16,200

No

No

1980

Lutheran

Preschool–12

680

Yes

$12,850–$21,100

Yes

No

1998

None

3–12

80

Yes

$25,000

Yes

No

1979

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–12

620

Yes

$8,000–$20,000

Yes

No

1996

Lutheran

Preschool–8

158

Yes

$3,400–$11,550

Yes

No

2018

Christian–Nondemominational

1–12

100

Yes

$17,000–$19,000

Yes

Yes

1971

None

Pre-K–6

130

No

$12,200–$17,500

Yes

No

1984

Christian

Kindergarten–12

328

Yes

$7,620–$10,248

Yes

No

2019

None

Pre-K–6

48

No

$11,803

No

No

1962

Jewish

Preschool–12

450

Yes

$11,000–$29,000

Yes

No

1964

None

Preschool–12

597

No

$30,000–$38,000

Yes

Yes

1998

Catholic

Pre-K–8

340

Yes

$9,000–$10,000

Yes

Yes

1979

Jewish

Preschool–8

435

Yes

$7,480–$32,250

Yes

Yes

1961

Catholic

6–12

450

Yes

$14,000–$18,000

Yes

Yes

1963

Catholic

9–12

1,004

Yes

$22,000

Yes

Yes

1972

Lutheran

Pre-K–8

100

Yes

$7,400

Yes

No

2001

Christian

5–12

120

Yes

$22,400–$26,500

Yes

Yes

1984

Presbyterian

Preschool–6

70

Yes

$7,000

No

No

2005

None

K–5

100

Yes

$5,000

No

Yes

1947

Catholic

Pre-K–8

465

Yes

$11,747–$16,362

Yes

No

2006

Christian

Pre-K–12

443

Yes

$5,800–$10,600

Yes

No

1993

Christian

Kindergarten–12

717

Yes

$11,500–$24,750

Yes

Yes

1965

None

1–12

170

Yes

$19,000–$27,000

Yes

No

1957

Adventist

Pre-K–12

116

Yes

$4,800–$6,200

No

Yes

1991

None

Preschool–12

680

Yes

$22,000–$29,000

Yes

No

1976

Lutheran

7–12

130

Yes

$18,000

Yes

No

1974

Episcopal

Preschool–12

1,194

Yes

$27,485

Yes

No

FINANCIAL

FOUNDED

SCHO O L

LIST AID

No

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

27

CITY

SCHOOL

ADDRESS

WEBSITE

Dallas

Fairhill School

16150 Preston Road

fairhill.org

Dallas

First Baptist Academy

7898 Samuell Blvd.

fbacademy.com

Dallas

Fusion Academy Dallas

8128 Park Lane, Ste. 125

fusionacademy.com

Dallas

German International School of Dallas

12411 Templeton Trail

german-isd.com

Dallas

Good Shepherd Episcopal School

11110 Midway Road

gsesdallas.org

Dallas

Grace Academy of Dallas

11306A Inwood Road

graceacademy.com

Dallas

Highlands Christian School

721 Easton Road

highlandschristianschool.com

Dallas

Hillier School

3821 University Blvd.

hillierschool.org

Dallas

Hockaday School, The

11600 Welch Road

hockaday.org

Dallas

Holy Trinity Catholic School

3815 Oak Lawn Ave.

htcsdallas.org

Dallas

Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

12345 Inwood Road

jesuitdallas.org

Dallas

Kessler School, The

1822 W. 10th St.

thekesslerschool.com

Dallas

Kingdom Collegiate Academies

1821 W. Camp Wisdom Road

kcacademies.org

Dallas

Lakehill Preparatory School

2720 Hillside Drive

lakehillprep.org

Dallas

Lamplighter School, The

11611 Inwood Road

thelamplighterschool.org

Dallas

Mount Saint Michael Catholic School

4500 W. Davis St.

msmcatholic.org

Dallas

New Life Christian Academy

2626 Gus Thomasson Road

newlifechristianacademy.net

Dallas

Notre Dame School of Dallas

2018 Allen St.

notredameschool.org

Dallas

Oak Hill Academy

9407 Midway Road

oakhillacademy.org

Dallas

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School

7625 Cortland Ave.

olphschooldallas.org

Dallas

Our Redeemer Lutheran School

7611 Park Lane

ordallas.org

Dallas

Parish Episcopal School

4101 Sigma Road / 14115 Hillcrest Road

parish.org

Dallas

Preston Hollow Presbyterian School

9800 Preston Road

phps.org

Dallas

Providence Christian School of Texas

5002 W. Lovers Lane

pcstx.org

Dallas

Saint Timothy School, The

4333 Cole Ave.

thesainttimothyschool.org

Dallas

Santa Clara of Assisi Catholic Academy

4550 W. Davis St.

santaclaraacademy.org

Dallas

Scofield Christian School

7730 Abrams Road

scofieldchristianschool.org

Dallas

Shelton School

17301 Preston Road

shelton.org

Dallas

Southwest Adventist Jr. Academy

1600 Bonnie View Road

swaja.org

Dallas

St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic School

1420 Old Gate Lane

stbernardccs.org

Dallas

St. Cecilia School

635 Mary Cliff Road

stceciliacatholic.org

Dallas

St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School

4019 S. Hampton Road

saintspride.com

Dallas

St. John’s Episcopal School

848 Harter Road

stjohnsschool.org

Dallas

St. Mark’s School of Texas

10600 Preston Road

smtexas.org

Dallas

St. Mary of Carmel Catholic School

1716 Singleton Blvd.

smcschool.org

Dallas

St. Monica Catholic School

4140 Walnut Hill Lane

stmonicaschool.org

Dallas

St. Philip’s School & Community Center

1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

stphilips1600.org

Dallas

St. Philip & St. Augustine Catholic Academy

8151 Military Pkwy.

spsacatholic.org

Dallas

St. Pius X Catholic School

3030 Gus Thomasson Road

spxdallasschool.org

Dallas

St. Rita Catholic School

12525 Inwood Road

strita.net

Dallas

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School

3741 Abrams Road

staschool.org

Dallas

Torah Day School of Dallas

6921 Frankford Road

tdsd.org

Dallas

Ursuline Academy of Dallas

4900 Walnut Hill Lane

ursulinedallas.org

Dallas

Vanguard Preparatory School

4240 Sigma Road

vanguardprepschool.com

Dallas

Wesley Prep

9200 Inwood Road

wesleyprep.org

Dallas

Westwood School, The

14340 Proton Road

westwoodschool.org

Dallas

White Rock Montessori

1601 Oates Drive

whiterockmontessori.org

Dallas

White Rock North School

9727 White Rock Trail

whiterocknorthschool.com

Dallas

Winston School, The

5707 Royal Lane

winston-school.org

Dallas

Zion Lutheran School

6121 E. Lovers Lane

zlsdallas.org

Denton

Denton Calvary Academy

1910 E. University Drive

dentoncalvary.org

•

= LEARNING DIFFERENCES

28

•

= SPECIAL NEEDS

•

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

= GIFTED

•

= NONTRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

•

= INFORMATION FROM 2023 LIST

FOUNDED

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

GRADES OFFERED

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

UNIFORM

ANNUAL TUITION

FINANCIAL

SCHOLARSHIPS

THE 2024 PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST

1971

None

1–12

150

Yes

$24,500–$25,100

Yes

No

1972

Christian

Pre-K–12

409

Yes

$10,650–$14,650

Yes

No

1989

None

6–12

100

No

$30,000–$40,000

No

Yes

2010

None

Preschool–5

113

No

$8,000–$12,000

No

No

1959

Episcopal

Pre-K–8

595

Yes

$14,130–$25,010

Yes

Yes

1974

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–6

235

Yes

$3,000–$14,000

Yes

No

2023

Christian

Preschool–6

97

Yes

$5,775–$13,650

No

No

1968

Presbyterian

1–8

30

Yes

$17,700

Yes

Yes

1913

None

Pre-K–12

1,110

Yes

$30,935–$36,705

Yes

No

1914

Catholic

Pre-K–8

167

Yes

$8,400

Yes

Yes

1942

Catholic

9–12

1,150

No

$23,700

Yes

Yes

1999

None

Pre-K–8

140

Yes

$11,000–$20,800

Yes

No

1984

Christian

Preschool–12

528

Yes

$7,695–$14,050

Yes

Yes

1971

None

Kindergarten–12

430

No

$18,550–$28,650

Yes

No

1953

None

Pre-K–4

470

No

$16,819–$30,217

Yes

No

1986

Catholic

Pre-K–8

149

Yes

$8,100

Yes

No

1983

Baptist

Pre-K–12

33

Yes

$4,080

No

No

1963

Catholic

Kindergarten–12

150

Yes

$12,000

Yes

No

1987

None

Pre-K–12

140

Yes

$20,750–$30,000

Yes

No

1946

Catholic

Pre-K–8

156

Yes

$4,500

Yes

No

1961

Lutheran

Preschool–6

250

Yes

$7,300–$14,600

Yes

No

1972

Episcopal

3–12

1,180

Yes

$12,800–$34,600

Yes

No

1962

Presbyterian

Kindergarten–6

134

Yes

$23,800–$24,600

Yes

No

1989

Christian–Nondenominational

Pre-K–8

450

Yes

$4,500–$22,700

Yes

Yes

2008

Anglican

Pre-K–12

53

Yes

$7,500–$11,340

Yes

Yes

1994

Catholic

Pre-K–8

121

Yes

$5,660

Yes

Yes

1961

Christian

Pre-K–6

271

Yes

$4,188–$12,717

Yes

No

1976

None

Pre-K–12

1,105

Yes

$19,100–$37,900

Yes

Yes

1929

Adventist

Pre-K–8

30

Yes

$5,200

Yes

Yes

1948

Catholic

Preschool–8

150

Yes

$6,000–$8,000

Yes

Yes

1935

Catholic

Preschool–8

167

Yes

$5,925

Yes

Yes

1956

Catholic

Pre-K–8

180

Yes

$7,700

Yes

No

1953

Episcopal

Preschool–8

500

Yes

$22,000

Yes

No

1906

Nonsectarian Episcopalian

1–12

914

Yes

$30,224–$38,601

Yes

No

1944

Catholic

Pre-K–8

166

Yes

$5,720

Yes

Yes

1955

Catholic

Pre-K–8

725

Yes

$9,400–$14,000

Yes

Yes

1947

Christian

Preschool–8

289

Yes

$10,556–$12,075

Yes

No

2015

Catholic

Pre-K–8

356

Yes

$5,750

Yes

Yes

1955

Catholic

Pre-K–8

186

Yes

$4,335–$8,275

Yes

No

1964

Catholic

Pre-K–8

792

Yes

$9,550–$15,550

Yes

No

1947

Catholic

Pre-K–8

883

Yes

$13,000

Yes

No

2002

Orthodox Jewish

Preschool–8

405

Yes

$7,499–$16,499

Yes

Yes

1874

Catholic

9–12

880

Yes

$27,000

Yes

Yes

1993

None

Pre-K–12

115

No

$24,200–$26,400

Yes

Yes

1968

Methodist

Preschool–6

421

Yes

$6,790–$16,285

Yes

Yes

1986

None

Preschool–12

300

Yes

$17,095–$24,420

No

No

1975

None

Preschool–8

175

No

$13,770–$19,101

Yes

No

1964

None

Preschool–6

180

Yes

$17,000–$12,000

Yes

Yes

1975

None

Kindergarten–12

147

Yes

$26,000–$36,000

Yes

Yes

1873

Lutheran

Preschool–8

276

Yes

$8,000–$11,000

Yes

Yes

1999

Christian–Nondenominational

Kindergarten–12

270

Yes

$7,300–$9,500

No

No

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

29

CITY

SCHOOL

ADDRESS

WEBSITE

Denton

Koan School, The

6441 Fishtrap Road

koanschool.org

DeSoto

DeSoto Private School

301 E. Beltline Road

desotoprivate.org

Farmers Branch

Mary Immaculate Catholic School

14032 Dennis Lane

mischool.org

Flower Mound

Coram Deo Academy - Flower Mound Campus

4900 Wichita Trail

cdalions.org

Flower Mound

Grace Christian School

3200 Firewheel Drive

gcapatriots.org

Flower Mound

Temple Christian Academy

2501 Northshore Blvd.

templechristian.com

Fort Worth

All Saints Catholic School

2006 N. Houston St.

ascsfw.org

Fort Worth

All Saints’ Episcopal School

9700 Saints Circle

aseschool.org

Fort Worth

Alliance Christian Academy & Little Sprouts Preschool

13105 Harmon Road

acaknights.com

Fort Worth

Anderson Private School for the Gifted, Talented and Creative

14900 White Settlement Road

andersonschool.net

Fort Worth

Bethesda Christian School

4700 N. Beach St.

bethesdachristianschool.org

Fort Worth

Cassata Catholic High School

1400 Hemphill St.

cassatahs.org

Fort Worth

Christian Cottage Prep

1140 Morrison Drive

christiancottageprep.com

Fort Worth

Covenant Classical School

1701 Wind Star Way

covenantfw.org

Fort Worth

Crossroads Christian Academy Inc

5817 Waddell St.

crossroadsftworth.org

Fort Worth

Fort Worth Academy

7301 Dutch Branch Road

fwacademy.org

Fort Worth

Fort Worth Adventist Junior Academy

3040 Sycamore School Road

fwaja.org

Fort Worth

Fort Worth Country Day

4200 Country Day Lane

fwcd.org

Fort Worth

Hill School of Fort Worth

4817 Odessa Ave.

hillschool.org

Fort Worth

Holy Family Catholic School

6146 Pershing Ave.

hfcsfw.org

Fort Worth

Jane Justin School

1300 W. Lancaster Ave.

childstudycenter.org

Fort Worth

Key School

7950 John T. White Road

ksfw.org

Fort Worth

Lake Country Christian School

7050 Lake Country Drive

lccs.org

Fort Worth

Montessori School of Fort Worth

3420 Clayton Road East

msftw.org

Fort Worth

Mosaic Academy

1400 College Ave.

mosaicacademy.org

Fort Worth

Nolan Catholic High School

4501 Bridge St.

nolancatholic.org

Fort Worth

Saint Andrew Catholic School

3304 Dryden Road

standrewsch.org

Fort Worth

Southwest Christian School

6816 Dan Danciger Road

southwestchristian.org

Fort Worth

St. George Catholic School

824 Hudgins Ave.

stgeorgecatholicschool.org

Fort Worth

St. Paul Lutheran School

1800 W. Freeway

stpauleagles.org

Fort Worth

St. Peter’s Classical School

7601 Bellaire Drive S.

stpetersclassical.org

Fort Worth

St. Rita Catholic School

712 Weiler Blvd.

saintritaschool.net

Fort Worth

Starpoint School

2805 Stadium Drive

coe.tcu.edu

Fort Worth

Temple Christian School

6824 Randol Mill Road

tcseagles.org

Fort Worth

Trinity Baptist Temple Academy

6045 WJ Boaz Road

tbta.tbtchurch.org

Fort Worth

Trinity Valley School

7500 Dutch Branch Road

tvs.org

Frisco

Acton Academy Frisco

7110 Elm St.

actonacademyfrisco.com

Frisco

Kids USA Montessori

8890 Meadow Hill Drive

kidsusamontessori.org

Frisco

Legacy Christian Academy

5000 Academy Drive

legacyca.com

Frisco

Starwood Academy of Frisco

3443 Lebanon Road

starwoodacademyoffrisco.com

Garland

Brighter Horizons Academy

3145 Medical Plaza Drive

bhaprep.org

Garland

Firewheel Christian Academy

5500 Lavon Drive

firewheelca.org

Garland

Garland Christian Academy

1516 Lavon Drive

garlandchristian.com

Garland

Good Shepherd Catholic School

214 S. Garland Ave.

goodshepherdcatholicschool.org

Granbury

Grace Classical Christian Academy

910 Paluxy Road

graceclassical.com

Grand Prairie

Immaculate Conception School

400 NE 17th St.

school.icgrandprairie.org

Grapevine

Grapevine Faith Christian School

730 E. Worth St.

grapevinefaith.com

Grapevine

Holy Trinity Catholic School - Grapevine

3750 William D. Tate Ave.

holytcs.org

Grapevine

Novus Academy, The

3400 William D. Tate Ave.

thenovusacademy.org

Grapevine

Southlake Montessori

1105 W. Wall St.

southlakemontessori.org

Haslet

Legacy Classical Christian Academy

12501 U.S. Highway 287

legacyclassical.org

•

= LEARNING DIFFERENCES

30

•

= SPECIAL NEEDS

•

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

= GIFTED

•

= NONTRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

•

= INFORMATION FROM 2023 LIST

FOUNDED

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

GRADES OFFERED

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

UNIFORM

ANNUAL TUITION

FINANCIAL

SCHOLARSHIPS

THE 2024 PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST

2013

None

Pre-K–12

100

No

$9,750–$11,660

Yes

Yes

1972

None

Pre-K–6

300

Yes

$6,000

No

No

1959

Catholic

Pre-K–8

467

Yes

$7,630

Yes

Yes

1999

Christian

Pre-K–12

713

Yes

$5,800–$12,700

Yes

No

1970

Baptist

Pre-K–12

125

Yes

$5,800

No

No

1980

Baptist

Kindergarten–12

132

Yes

$6,410

Yes

No

1905

Catholic

Pre-K–8

118

Yes

$7,100

Yes

Yes

1951

Episcopal

Preschool–12

1,230

Yes

$5,990–$27,475

Yes

Yes

2004

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–12

160

Yes

$5,000–$8,000

No

No

1995

None

Preschool–12

13

Yes

$11,490–$16,490

Yes

Yes

1980

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–12

550

Yes

$11,385

Yes

Yes

1975

Catholic

9–12

100

No

$8,500

Yes

Yes

2001

Christian–Nondenominational

K–12

50

No

$9,975

Yes

Yes

1999

Christian

Kindergarten–12

502

Yes

$14,590–$18,915

Yes

No

2004

None

7–12

45

No

$2,100

No

No

1982

None

Kindergarten–8

183

Yes

$21,632–$24,360

Yes

No

1996

Seventh Day Adventist

Preschool–8

58

Yes

$4,300

Yes

Yes

1963

None

Pre-K–12

1,097

Yes

$16,130–$28,400

Yes

Yes

1973

None

Kindergarten–12

110

Yes

$20,510–$24,370

Yes

Yes

1945

Catholic

Pre-K–8

108

Yes

$8,100–$8,800

Yes

Yes

1962

None

Pre-K–12

85

Yes

$17,500–$19,500

Yes

Yes

1966

None

Kindergarten–12

100

Yes

$22,950–$23,350

Yes

No

1980

Chrisitan–Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

620

Yes

$7,783–$16,345

Yes

No

1968

None

Preschool–8

200

No

$6,500–$15,000

Yes

No

2000

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–8

90

No

$4,700–$5,700

No

Yes

1961

Catholic

9–12

610

Yes

$18,550

Yes

No

1954

Catholic

Pre-K–8

643

Yes

$7,800–$9,800

Yes

Yes

1969

Christian

Preschool–12

992

Yes

$5,875–$22,850

Yes

No

1951

Catholic

Pre-K–8

115

Yes

$5,800

Yes

Yes

1969

Lutheran

Preschool–8

200

Yes

$8,000–$12,100

Yes

Yes

2005

Christian Orthodox

Pre-K–12

86

Yes

$5,590–$13,090

Yes

No

1954

Catholic

Pre-K–8

121

Yes

$7,200

Yes

Yes

1966

Christian

1–6

60

Yes

$17,500

Yes

Yes

1973

Baptist

Pre-K–12

400

Yes

$7,000–$9,670

Yes

Yes

1995

Baptist

Pre-K–12

101

Yes

$4,500

No

No

1959

None

Pre-K–12

1,042

Yes

$13,780–$26,832

Yes

No

2021

None

Kindergarten–6

20

No

$9,500–$11,500

No

Yes

2013

None

Preschool–6

348

No

$14,000–$18,000

Yes

No

1999

Christian

Pre-K–12

1,428

Yes

$13,800–$23,600

Yes

No

2000

None

Preschool–8

341

Yes

$13,500–$19,750

No

No

1989

Islamic

Pre-K–12

800

Yes

$7,622

Yes

No

1981

Assemblies of God

Preschool–6

200

Yes

$4,000–$8,000

No

No

1972

Baptist

Pre-K–12

379

Yes

$7,000–$12,000

Yes

Yes

1954

Catholic

Pre-K–8

214

Yes

$7,500

Yes

Yes

2012

Christian–Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

100

Yes

$3,800–$8,750

Yes

Yes

1952

Catholic

Pre-K–8

125

Yes

$6,530

Yes

Yes

1999

Christian

Pre-K–12

831

Yes

$15,000–$20,000

Yes

No

1994

Catholic

Pre-K–8

310

Yes

$9,410

Yes

No

2014

None

Kindergarten–12

46

Yes

$22,000

Yes

Yes

2014

None

Preschool–6

36

No

$11,840–$16,248

Yes

No

2010

Christian

Preschool–12

47

Yes

$6,640

No

No

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

31

CITY

SCHOOL

ADDRESS

WEBSITE

Heath

Fulton School, The

1626 Smirl Drive

thefultonschool.com

Irving

Cistercian Preparatory School

3660 Cistercian Road

cistercian.org

Irving

Highlands School, The

1451 E. Northgate Drive

thehighlandsschool.org

Irving

Holy Family Catholic Academy

2323 Cheyenne St.

hfca-irving.org

Irving

Humanist Academy, The

4441 W. Airport Freeway, Ste. 100

thehumanistacademy.org

Irving

Islamic School of Irving

2555 Esters Road

islamicschoolofirving.org

Irving

Redeemer Montessori School

2700 Warren Circle

redeemermontessori.org

Irving

Sloan School, The

3131 N. O’Connor Road

thesloanschool.com

Irving

St. Francis Montessori

545 Iris Drive

stfrancisirving.org

Irving

StoneGate Christian Academy

1705 Esters Road

sgca.net

Keller

DFW Performing Arts Conservatory

5700 Kroger Drive

dfwpac.com

Keller

Harvest Christian Academy - Keller

225 Keller Pkwy.

hcasaints.org

Keller

Messiah Lutheran Classical Academy

1308 Whitley Road

mlcatexas.org

Keller

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School

2016 Willis Lane

seton.school

Keller

Trinity Preparatory Academy

12657 N. Caylor Road

trinityprepkeller.org

Kennedale

Fellowship Academy

1021 N. Bowman Springs Road

fellowship-academy.org

Lewisville

Explorations Preparatory School

2160 S. Edmonds Lane

explorationsprep.org

Lewisville

Lakeland Christian Academy

397 S. Stemmons Freeway

lakelandchristian.org

Lucas

Lucas Christian Academy

505 W. Lucas Road

lucaschristianacademy.com

Mansfield

School of Lexia

1200 Clover Hill Road

schooloflexia.org

McKinney

Acton Academy McKinney

105 New Hope Road

actonmckinney.org

McKinney

Cornerstone Christian Academy

808 S. College St.

ccawarriors.com

McKinney

McKinney Christian Academy

3601 Bois D’Arc Road

mckinneychristian.org

Mesquite

Dallas Christian School

1515 Republic Pkwy.

dallaschristian.com

North Richland Hills

Fort Worth Christian School

6200 Holiday Lane

fwc.org

Plano

Bethany Christian School

3300 W. Parker Road

planochristianschool.com

Plano

Coram Deo Academy - Collin County Campus

9645 Independence Pkwy.

coramdeoacademy.org

Plano

Faith Lutheran School

1701 E. Park Blvd.

flsplano.org

Plano

Fusion Academy Plano

2400 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 180

fusionacademy.com

Plano

Great Lakes Academy

6000 Custer Road, Building 7

greatlakesacademy.com

Plano

John Paul II High School

900 Coit Road

johnpauliihs.org

Plano

New Hope Christian Academy

5170 Village Creek Drive, Ste. 200

explorenewhope.org

Plano

North Texas Performing Arts Academy

6121 W. Park Blvd., Ste. B216

ntpa.org

Plano

Pebblecreek Montessori

8104 Coit Road

pebblecreekmontessori.com

Plano

Prestonwood Christian Academy Plano

6801 W. Park Blvd.

prestonwoodchristian.org

Plano

Prince of Peace Catholic School

5100 W. Plano Pkwy.

popschool.net

Plano

St. Mark Catholic School

1201 Alma Drive

stmcs.net

Plano

St. Timothy Christian Academy

6901 W. Park Blvd.

staplano.org

Prosper

Prestonwood Christian Academy North

1001 W. Prosper Trail

prestonwoodchristian.org

Prosper

St. Martin de Porres Catholic School

4000 W. University Drive

smdpcatholic.org

Richardson

Bridge Builder Academy

1221 W. Campbell Road, Ste. 209

bridgebuilderacademy.com

Richardson

I.A.N.T. Quranic Academy

840 Abrams Road

myiqa.org

Richardson

North Dallas Adventist Academy

2800 Custer Pkwy.

ndaacademy.org

Richardson

St. Joseph Catholic School - Richardson

600 S. Jupiter Road

sjcstx.net

Richardson

Saint Paul Catholic Classical School

720 S. Floyd Road

spsdfw.org

Roanoke

E.A. Young Academy

608 Henrietta Creek Road

eayoungacademy.com

Rockwall

Heritage Christian Academy

1408 S. Goliad St.

hcarockwall.org

Southlake

Clariden School, The

100 Clariden Ranch Road

claridenschool.org

Southlake

Fusion Academy Southlake

301 State St., Ste. 200

fusionacademy.com

Willow Park

Trinity Christian Academy

4954 E. I-20 Service Road S.

tcaeagles.org

Wylie

Wylie Preparatory Academy

4110 Skyview Court

wylieprep.com

•

= LEARNING DIFFERENCES

32

•

= SPECIAL NEEDS

•

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

= GIFTED

•

= NONTRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

•

= INFORMATION FROM 2023 LIST

FOUNDED

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

GRADES OFFERED

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

UNIFORM

ANNUAL TUITION

FINANCIAL

SCHOLARSHIPS

THE 2024 PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST

1987

None

Preschool–5

150

Yes

$9,850

No

No

1964

Catholic

5–12

351

Yes

$24,200–$25,600

Yes

No

1986

Catholic

Pre-K–12

383

Yes

$11,450–$18,000

Yes

Yes

1965

Catholic

Pre-K–8

140

Yes

$6,000–$7,000

Yes

Yes

2016

None

Pre-K–12

95

No

$7,800

No

No

1996

Islamic

Preschool–12

854

Yes

$6,000

Yes

Yes

1978

Episcopal

Preschool–6

165

Yes

$9,350–$8,950

Yes

Yes

1996

Christian

Preschool–5

100

Yes

$11,600

No

No

2009

Catholic

Pre-K–6

140

No

$5,000–$5,900

Yes

No

1976

Christian

Pre-K–12

100

Yes

$7,900–$11,900

Yes

Yes

2009

Christian

4–12

~30

No

$13,000–$16,000

No

Yes

1994

Nondenominational

Kindergarten–12

260

Yes

$12,500–$13,500

Yes

Yes

2000

Lutheran

Preschool–8

84

Yes

$6,295–$9,745

Yes

No

2000

Catholic

Pre-K–8

596

Yes

$8,920–$7,920

Yes

No

2008

Christian

Kindergarten–12

400

Yes

$4,500–$5,100

Yes

No

2000

Christian

Pre-K–12

384

No

$9,000–$12,000

Yes

Yes

2002

None

Pre-K–7

70

Yes

$11,900–$14,900

Yes

No

1992

Christian

Preschool–12

275

Yes

$4,300–$7,500

Yes

Yes

1999

Christian–Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

437

Yes

$7,000–$9,000

No

No

2020

Christian–Nondenominational

1–8

38

Yes

$5,000–$18,700

Yes

Yes

2019

None

Pre-K–12

30

No

$7,200–$8,100

No

Yes

2004

Christian–Nondenominational

K–12

404

Yes

$6,450–$8,560

No

No

1992

Christian–Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

670

Yes

$9,000–$16,695

Yes

No

1957

Christian–Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

500

Yes

$5,000–$20,000

Yes

No

1958

Christian–Nondenominational

Preschool–12

600

Yes

$13,000–$18,000

Yes

No

1944

Christian

Pre-K–12

95

No

$4,275–$6,500

No

No

2004

Christian

Pre-K–12

588

Yes

$5,800–$10,600

Yes

No

1971

Lutheran

Preschool–12

155

Yes

$4,000–$11,000

Yes

Yes

2014

None

6–12

90

No

$30,000–$60,000

No

Yes

1996

None

4–12

120

Yes

$18,600–$20,700

No

No

2005

Catholic

9–12

740

Yes

$21,900

Yes

Yes

2017

Christian

Pre-K–12

92

Yes

$10,500–$14,500

Yes

Yes

2018

None

6–12

80

No

$5,400–$7,800

Yes

Yes

2002

None

Preschool–6

150

No

$10,500–$12,250

No

No

1997

Baptist

Pre-K–12

1,675

Yes

$7,520–$26,810

Yes

No

1991

Catholic

Preschool–8

769

Yes

$9,435–$13,015

Yes

No

1982

Catholic

Preschool–8

545

Yes

$9,205

Yes

No

2006

Nondenominational

Kindergarten–12

40

Yes

$24,500

Yes

No

2014

Baptist

Pre-K–12

646

Yes

$7,520–$22,810

Yes

No

2012

Catholic

Pre-K–8

345

Yes

$8,100

Yes

No

2009

None

Kindergarten–12

35

No

$35,000–$45,000

No

No

2002

Islamic

Pre-K–12

356

Yes

$7,000

Yes

No

1983

Adventist

Preschool–12

261

Yes

$700–$1,300

Yes

Yes

2022

Catholic

Pre-K–8

295

Yes

$8,200–$9,400

Yes

Yes

1957

Catholic

Pre-K–8

140

Yes

$8,990–$10,500

Yes

Yes

2011

None

Kindergarten–12

90

Yes

$18,750

No

No

1995

Christian

Pre-K–12

497

Yes

$8,700–$13,000

Yes

No

1986

None

Preschool–12

175

No

$14,000–$20,000

Yes

No

2015

None

6–12

100

No

$45,000–$60,000

No

Yes

1993

Christian

Pre-K–12

556

Yes

$9,420–$15,540

No

Yes

2001

Christian

Pre-K–12

339

Yes

$3,600–$8,300

No

No

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

33

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

School PROFILE Are you looking for a school that’s as passionate about your child’s education as you are?

Get to know the institutions that excel in fostering a lifelong love of learning.

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december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

All Saints’ Episcopal School All Saints’ Episcopal School is a leading college preparatory school in Fort Worth, serving students age 3 through grade 12. Our Episcopal Identity means that we believe in educating the whole person by developing discerning minds, healthy bodies, and lively spirits. All Saints’ 144-acre campus includes open space to grow and explore, as well as exceptional facilities like a state-of-the-art student Union, a beautiful Chapel, and two maker spaces: Exploratorium and Tinkertorium.

At All Saints’, we pursue content mastery alongside character development.

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

See for yourself how our educational model blends the best of tradition and innovation by connecting with a member of our Admission team! Learn more and connect here: aseschool.org/dfwchild.

9700 Saints Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76108 817-560-5746 admission@aseschool.org aseschool.org/dfwchild

BASIS Benbrook 2024–25 open enrollment for BASIS Benbrook is happening now through December 13th!

BASIS Texas Charter Schools are ranked #1 in Texas. We offer a world-class, tuition-free education for grades K–12. Individuality is our only school uniform, and your child will be challenged by our STEM-infused, liberal arts curriculum.

2023 U.S. News & World Report’s Rankings: #1

Public Charter School in Texas

#1

Top School in San Antonio and Texas—BASIS San Antonio Shavano Campus

10

of the Top 100 in the U.S.

6

of the Top 20 STEM schools in the U.S.

10

of the Top 17 charter schools in the U.S.

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

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

35

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Crown of Life Lutheran School Crown of Life Lutheran School is a loving, Christ-centered environment that ministers to students and families by nurturing the whole child academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and physically. At Crown of Life Lutheran School, we desire for our students to know Jesus, grow in His grace and knowledge and show His love to others.

Crown of Life Lutheran School is a Pre-K2 through 8th grade private Christian school that is growing at a rapid pace! We are planning for an exciting future that will include a summer program and additional opportunities!

Did you know that our graduating 8th grade class earns five high school credits?

Crown of Life Lutheran School is dedicated to preparing students for future leadership!

Crown of Life Lutheran School staff, faculty and families are ALL IN! How about you?

Visit our website at colschool.org to learn more about our school. Ms. Sama, our Admissions Director, is waiting to hear from you and give you a private tour of our campus. We are located at 6605 Pleasant Run Road, Colleyville, Texas 76034 between the Colleyville Soccer Association practice fields and playing fields. We can’t wait to add you to the Crusader family!

6605 Pleasant Run Road, Colleyville, TX 76034 817-251-1881 • colschool.org Admissions: Shelley Sama, ssama@crownoflife.org

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts (FWAFA) provides tuition-free, conservatorybased arts instruction and a rigorous academic curriculum for grades 3–12. It is the highest-ranked charter school for the arts in Texas on niche.com.

Students receive extensive Dance, Music, Theatre and Visual Arts training and annually participate in over 50 performances and art shows. They also create costumes, design sets and choreograph dance. Outside the classroom, students learn from guest artists, attend professional productions and regularly perform in the community.

PHOTO BY HOPE WILTON PHOTOGRAPHY

The academic stage is no different. Each academic discipline is aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), and teachers are encouraged to collaborate for cross-curricular learning. There are only 650 students for all grades from 3–12. This allows for small classroom sizes, a close-knit social environment and personalized attention from faculty and staff.

FWAFA is a proven leader, consistently ranking among the top schools in Texas and the nation, exceeding standards for academics and performing arts, and has a 100 percent graduation rate. Our alums are college professors, engineers, entrepreneurs, as well as professional dancers, artists and Broadway stars.

Regardless of their path beyond high school, we know their experience at FWAFA will make them leaders in their communities who appreciate and sustain the arts.

Be part of the FWAFA Magic! Apply to audition during our Open Enrollment period, January 11–February 12. More info at ArtsAcademics.org/apply.

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

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december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

iLearn Virtual Academy at Dallas ISD Because of the commitment of Dallas ISD and the Public School Choice Initiative to serve students and families in schools that are the best fit for their learning styles, iLearn Virtual Academy specializes in providing remote learning opportunities. Learning in a virtual setting provides families the advantage of determining when and where learning takes place.

ILearn Virtual Academy benefits include high-quality instruction in a flexible and innovative format, designated for independent learners, flexible schedule with access to the curriculum at any time, and increased proficiency with Educational Technology tools.

Instructional Highlights • Virtual courses approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

• Direct support and instruction from a fully credentialed teacher.

• An innovative online learning platform configured for ease of use and student success.

408 N. Haskell Ave., Dallas, TX 75246 dallasisd.org/ilearn 972-749-8100

West Dallas STEM School West Dallas STEM School Program at Pinkston is a 50/50 Transformation school for PreK through 6th grade that uses lottery-based enrollment.

WDSS seeks to be a resource and ally within the West Dallas community, offering events, programs, and opportunities for children and families that improve their quality of life.

An integrated STEM education will prepare students from an early age for careers in high demand.

By engaging students in hands-on activities such as robotics, experiments, and computer coding, students use the skills and processes learned in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to think deeply, ask non-Googleable questions and solve problems.

2200 Dennison St., Dallas, TX 75212 dallasisd.org/westdallasstem 972-749-4400

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

37

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Jane Justin School Jane Justin School provides state-of-the-art, evidence-based special education to children, adolescents, and young adults with learning and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to foster the knowledge and life skills necessary for our students to achieve productive and meaningful lives while respecting and embracing the individuality of each child. Jane Justin School is accredited by Cognia.

The faculty at Jane Justin School strongly believe the following about children and education: First, and most important, all children can learn. Second, students learn in different ways and should be provided with a variety of instructional approaches to support their learning. Third, each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs. All faculty work from the perspective that learning is personal and instruction must be individualized.

Learning at Jane Justin School extends from the traditional classroom to our enrichment spaces, into the community, and into job internship sites for our Upper School students.

Jane Justin School operates on a traditional school calendar and offers a six-week summer program. We know that finding the right school for children with learning differences can be overwhelming. We invite you to give us a call so we may help you navigate this difficult road and help your child get on the path to meeting his or her full potential.

1300 W. Lancaster Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76102 682-303-9356 • childstudycenter.org

Life School Experience our 4-Day School Week!

School Monday–Thursday with Fridays off.

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

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

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

Plus, we are known for our focus on growing leaders.

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

132 East Ovilla Road, Suite A Red Oak, TX 75154 lifeschool.net

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december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Parish Episcopal School Dr. Matthew “Matt” J. Rush, Parish Episcopal School’s Allen Meyer Family Head of School, reflects on his first season on campus and what’s in store for those seeking a Parish, college preparatory experience.

“Transitions in life, whether a new job or a new school, bring anxiety and excitement, and they also produce opportunity. Parish is known for creating elevated opportunities and possibilities for its students and community, and that excites me! I am humbled to lead the School into the future and thrilled to partner with families in a community that prioritizes belonging, passion and innovation—all in pursuit of preparing graduates to thrive in a world that promises interconnectedness and unpredictably.”

Parish remains focused as an inclusive Episcopal community, embracing the whole child through Wisdom, Honor and Service, and families through partnership and fellowship.

The School is devoted to helping students find balance and joy in their educational journey, discover their authentic self and have a great sense of belonging and engagement across disciplines, PreK 3–12th grade. From signature programs exploring leadership, STEM, global studies and more, to social/emotional and academic support ensuring students’ needs are met, to premier athletics and arts, the possibilities are infinite at Parish!

Join Dr. Rush on February 7, 2024, at 8:30 a.m., to hear more about Parish and the possibilities that await your family. Register at parish.org/admission.

Hillcrest Campus

Midway Campus

972-852-8737

PreK (3 yrs old)–2nd Grade

3rd–12th Grade

parishepiscopal.org

14115 Hillcrest Road

4101 Sigma Road

Dallas, Texas 75254

Dallas, Texas 75244

Shelton School and Evaluation Center Shelton is the largest independent school for intelligent students with learning differences. The campus provides unparalleled academic and extracurricular opportunities for students in Early Childhood through twelfth grade. The studentfaculty ratio is 6:1. Shelton teachers are highly trained with expertise in teaching students with learning differences. They strive to instruct students the way they learn best. Many students come to Shelton with dyslexia and ADHD, so four different multisensory reading programs are offered depending on the learning difference. When a student enters Shelton, the curriculum is customized to meet the needs of the child. Shelton instructs students to become their own self advocates to help ensure they have future success.

The 92 seniors in Shelton’s Class of 2023 received $9.6 million in merit scholarships based on how they performed on the ACT and SAT exams, including some perfect scores on the reading section by students with dyslexia.

Ten students scored 30 or higher on the ACT Composite and 23 scored 30 or higher on the ACT Reading. “This is a tremendous marker of what children can achieve when they are in the right educational environment such as Shelton,” says Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell. “Children with learning differences can change the world, but without the proper intervention, they wouldn’t have that chance.”

17301 Preston Road Dallas TX 75252 972-774-1772 shelton.org

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

39

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Southwest Christian School Founded in 1969, Southwest Christian School has served students for more than half a century.

SCS’s mission as a Christ-centered college preparatory school is to equip students academically and spiritually to be leaders in the world.

Academically Excellent SCS is a college preparatory school committed to providing a rigorous, research-based core curriculum coupled with extracurricular opportunities that will prepare students for successful college careers. Beginning with our early childhood curriculum and continuing through the senior year of studies, our programming is systematically aligned with state and national standards.

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

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

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

Chisholm Trail Campus southwestchristian.org

Lakeside Campus

PreK–6th Grade

7th–12th Grade

6801 Dan Danciger Rd.

6901 Altamesa Blvd.

Fort Worth, TX 76133

Fort Worth, TX 76123

Texas School of the Arts Texas School of the Arts (TeSA) is a tuition-free, public charter school where young minds in Grades K–5 are encouraged to learn and grow through stimulating academics in a creative atmosphere. Students are immersed in structured rotations of Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts and are presented with unique performance opportunities like this year’s spring musical, Beauty and the Beast Jr. In addition to participation in musicals, concerts and art shows, our students are encouraged to use creative movements like hopping, skipping and spinning down the halls as they utilize our sensory hallways to transition between classes.

TeSA offers a small classroom environment, uses a campus ­developed curriculum focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), and is guided by the National Core Arts Standards. Each academic discipline is aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), and teachers are encouraged to collaborate for cross-curricular learning. Fine arts elements are integrated into academic classes, inspiring creative thinking, innovation, and collaboration in all subjects. Students are engaged in project-based learning, simultaneously incorporating multiple academic and fine art subjects.

TeSA is open to any student interested in arts and academics! Think your child is the next TeSA Star? Apply to audition during our Open Enrollment period, January 11–February 12. Find more info at ArtsAcademics.org/apply.

6025 Village Pkwy.

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

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december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Trinity Valley School EXPERIENCE THE MIDDLE SCHOOL AT TVS! Trinity Valley School offers extraordinary learning opportunities from Pre-K through graduation. Our mission provides students a foundation for academic, personal, and professional success. Skilled educators and coaches guide and support students, inspiring them with varied experiences from integrated technology to fine arts, athletics to entrepreneurial studies, and beyond.

TROJAN OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE: Our signature Trojan Outdoor Experience (TOE) Program engages students in environmental education and outdoor adventure from PK–12th grade.

TOE’s experiential education is a hallmark of the TVS experience.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAY: Unstructured play provides outstanding social and emotional development and improved classroom performance. The TVS Athletic program enhances students’ cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. Students in grades K-8 have P.E. daily; Pre-K students, four days per week. In Upper School, TVS fields 68 teams representing 23 sports, many of which have earned SPC championships.

WHAT SETS OUR MIDDLE SCHOOL APART? The advisory program nurtures self-advocacy, community-mindedness, and adaptability. Skills for Tomorrow engages an experiential learning model to promote collaborative problem solving, empathic communication, and adaptability.

The Selectives program engages students in authentic endeavors that foster collaboration, innovation, creativity, and a willingness to show resilience through trial and error.

At TVS, students are developing a future focus to help them in their journey beyond graduation. Come experience TVS with us!

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

Ursuline Academy of Dallas The Ursuline story is one of tradition. It is also a story of great teachers, cutting-edge technology, commitment to service, and confident girls becoming effective and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

The oldest continuously operating school in Dallas, Ursuline Academy is an independent Catholic college-preparatory school for young women sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters.

In this nurturing, all-girl environment, students are empowered to think critically and creatively, giving them skills they need for college and beyond.

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

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

Ursuline Academy does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, or national and ethnic origin.

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

For information about admissions, scan the QR code:

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

41

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Lamplighter School The Lamplighter School embraces and celebrates the natural curiosity and exuberance with which young children explore their world.

Our Pre-K through fourth grade program promotes academic excellence; engages children in the joy of learning; embraces diversity within an inclusive community; encourages creativity and discovery through hands-on learning including woodworking, drama, cooking, and entrepreneurial programs; and connects students with nature through our campus gardens, creek, and barn animals.

11611 Inwood Road Dallas, TX 75229 thelamplighterschool.org

Lumin Lindsley Park Community School Imagine a place where love and learning are one. A place where children’s minds and imaginations flourish in a nurturing environment where highly-trained educators inspire a lifelong love of learning in every child, setting them up for success today, tomorrow, and years down the road.

Lumin children, families, and educators are Luminauts: Explorers. Educators. Nurturers.

Trailblazers. Luminauts are kind, loving, and respectful of themselves and others.

We serve ages 18 months through 3rd grade.

Tour our Montessori community today!

7130 Lindsley Ave., Dallas, TX 75223 214-824-8950 admissions@lumineducation.org lumineducation.org

The Oakridge School Founded in 1979, The Oakridge School is a college preparatory school that boasts a diverse, intellectually stimulating, and academically challenging community. The school nurtures curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and character to prepare students for authentic, purposeful lives. In the past five years, 100 percent of Oakridge graduates have enrolled in post-secondary education, accepted by 401 universities and colleges, with 27 National Merit Commended Scholars and 48 collegiate athletes. Oakridge students were awarded over $50 million in merit scholarships.

Discover the Oakridge Difference! Ready to embark on an educational journey like no other? Join us at The Oakridge School, where academic excellence and creativity flourish within a safe and diverse community!

42

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

Join our distinctive academic community through Group Tours on Dec. 7, Jan. 16, Feb. 7, and Feb. 29 at 10am, an Admission Showcase on January 7 at 2pm, or explore Wednesday Webinars online.

Embark on an unparalleled educational journey by registering at theoakridgeschool.org/admissions.

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

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Our Redeemer Lutheran School Your child deserves a quality, Christian education with opportunities to explore interests and activities in a safe, loving environment. You’ll find all of that and more at Our Redeemer Lutheran School.

Our Redeemer is a family of students, parents, and educators with the common goal of creating an academically focused, joy-filled and spiritually rich learning environment. Students are challenged to reach their full academic potential while developing leadership skills, a solid moral compass, and a strong sense of their identity as a child of God. Our Enrichment Strands enable students to explore a variety of activities through co-curricular and extracurricular programs that range from physical fitness to science and creative arts. With over 60 different options available, there is sure

to be something that will encourage your child’s unique interests to blossom.

We offer classes for ages 1 through sixth grade on a ten-acre campus across from NorthPark Center.

7611 Park Lane, Dallas, TX 75225 214-302-5845 • ORDallas.org Scan the QR code for more info.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School Students are challenged to grow in knowledge, virtue, and faith through vigorous academics in a faith-filled environment at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.

Multi-sensory activities and lively discussion bring each core subject to life: math, science, English language arts, religion, and history. Learning is enriched with a variety of specials and electives: foreign language, music, art, drama, band, library, outdoor learning, physical education, and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (options vary by grade). Students participate in recess daily, have access to chef-prepared hot lunch, extra-curricular activities, and onsite extended care. Schedule a tour today!

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

Dallas International School From Pre-K through Grade 12, Dallas International School builds the next generation of multicultural, multilingual world leaders by focusing on our three pillars of Academic Ambition, Global Citizenship & Leadership and Community. Graduates earn the coveted International Baccalaureate or the French Baccalaureate plus a high school diploma. Learn more today!

Primary School 6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230 • 972-991-6379 Secondary School 17811 Waterview Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75252 • 469-250-0001 dallasinternationalschool.org/admissions

Fairhill School

Carla Stanford, M.Ed. Executive Director

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

Please register for our upcoming Admission Preview Coffee February 1, 2024 | 10–11am | https://bit.ly/3yAOKjK

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

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

43

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

Join us for our Live Open House Friday, January 26th or our Virtual Open House March 22nd. See our website to register today.

950 Tiffany Way, Dallas, TX 75218 214-324-1481 dallas-academy.com

The Episcopal School of Dallas ESD is an inclusive community in a diverse world, preparing lives that will go out from the classroom, reach out to the community, and stand out in the world; we are igniting lives of purpose.

Our college preparatory curriculum, led by a nationally recognized faculty, is complemented by a full array of artistic and athletic programs, daily chapel, experiences in the outdoors, and endless opportunities to lead and serve others. ESD’s unparalleled balance of rigor and nurture inspires

students to maximize their potential and live a life of purpose. Learn more at esdallas.org/mission.

4100 Merrell Road, Dallas, TX 75229 admission@esdallas.org | 214-353-5740

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

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

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

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

Students are encouraged to maintain a balance of academic, spiritual, social, athletic, and artistic pursuits and to discover new gifts and talents.

44

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

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

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

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Hill School of Fort Worth Success Starts at Hill School.

For the last 50 years, Hill School has been devoted to fostering a supportive environment that encourages growth and helps students reach their full potential.

By addressing the needs of every individual, our programs are designed to strengthen students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being.

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

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

hillschool.org/enrollment

Holy Trinity Cataholic School — Grapevine Holy Trinity Catholic School offers an authentically Catholic education that provides age appropriate rigor within a loving and respectful environment.

Our faculty and staff nurture the gifts and talents of each student by providing them with the tools and opportunities to maximize their potential, in and out of the classroom.

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

Beyond the classroom we offer over 25 athletic and

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

3750 William D. Tate Avenue , Grapevine, TX 76051 817-421-8000 x121 • admissions@holytcs.org holytcs.org

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

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

The Novus Academy The Novus Academy is an independent school serving students with learning differences in grades K–12. At The Novus Academy, we recognize that not everyone learns the same way. That’s OK. Our school doesn’t teach everyone the same way.

Faculty and staff are dedicated to helping students find their academic strengths, grow in confidence, and meet their individual goals. Our small studentto-teacher ratio, supportive staff and differentiated curriculum are designed to set our students up for academic success.

Come experience a safe place where your child can advance, succeed, and be accepted for who they are!

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

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

PHPS is small by design in order to provide an individualized, research-based, multi-sensory program to remediate academic weaknesses.

Our program engages learners while challenging them to excel with the goal to return students to the mainstream of education.

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

Scholaris Academy Scholaris Academy is a micro-school dedicated to maximizing potential for students in grades 1–8.

Our individualized approach to education provides each student with a personalized learning plan and customized goals which drive their academic pacing.

The small class size and dedicated educational experience equip students to flourish socially in this environment, cultivating meaningful friendships with peers.

We believe in the importance of family time and childhood. As a result, the university

model schedule, with core classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays creates extra time to pursue interests outside the classroom. We invite you to learn more about Scholaris Academy.

6170 Sherry Ln., Dallas, TX 469- 466-9385 • scholaris.org

St. Mark Catholic School As a leader in advanced education methods, St. Mark is a two-time National Blue Ribbon school and is home to the SMARTLAB® technology facility where students develop next-generation skills through hands-on, project-based learning.

Exemplary academics and instruction in art, music, foreign language, STEAM, virtual/augmented reality, coding, and physical education combine with faith education and a spirit of community service to develop the whole child: mind, body and spirit. Schedule a visit and learn how tradition meets innovation.

Now offering: • Part-time PK3: Choose 3 days/week (pick your days) or 5 days/week • Full-time PK3–8th grade

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

Trinity Christian Academy Trinity Christian Academy is determined to provide students with an outstanding collegepreparatory Christian education for Pre-K3–12th grade. As an institution that bears the name of Christ, the highest standards of excellence and student discipleship are our goals. TCA exists to help each student fulfill God’s purpose and reach maximum potential in a joint effort between school, student, family, and church. We have earned dual accreditation through ACSI and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council, making 46

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

us one of the few private schools in the area to maintain this rigorous level of accreditation.

4954 E. I-20 Service Road S., Willow Park, TX 76087 817-441-5897 • tcaeagles.org

SCHOOL PROFILE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Wesley Prep

Meg Fahrenbrook Head of School

The Wesley Prep mission is to develop joyful leaders empowered by academics and integrity.

Our teachers place equal emphasis on fostering enlightened minds and compassionate spirits, and our intentionally designed program ensures all students receive the time and attention needed to thrive. Our students are seen, known, loved, and celebrated, and they are empowered to do the same for others. By sixth grade, Wesley Prep students become leaders who are confident, well-grounded, and prepared for their next academic environment.

Wesley Prep’s Head of School, Meg Fahrenbrook, MA in Private School Leadership from the Klingenstein Center, Teachers College at Columbia University.

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

Inspire Academy

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

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

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

Lakehill Preparatory School Lakehill Preparatory School guides motivated students to learn with curiosity, lead with confidence, and serve with compassion. Our challenging and nurturing educational community inspires students to become collaborative problem-solvers who live with integrity.

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

Montessori Children’s House and School Located on a beautiful, wooded expanse in northeast Dallas, MCHS provides quality Montessori education to children ages 3 to 6 years of age, a time when children are naturally enabled with the capacity to make substantial leaps in their academic, cognitive, and social development.

Founded in 1970, MCHS is fully accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Schedule a tour and come see what makes MCHS special!

7335 Abrams Rd., Dallas, TX 75231 214-348-6276 mchsdallas.org

St. John’s Episcopal School At St. John’s, students belong to a community where they are known, appreciated, and celebrated. Our teachers are lifelong learners dedicated to a learning journey, for their own growth and for their students, so that together we can all become better versions of ourselves. The oldest Episcopal school in Dallas, we are dedicated to a program of academic excellence designed to train the mind, strengthen the character, and enrich the spirit of

each student in a Christian environment. Applications due January 12!

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

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special needs.

W

THE ‘TYPICAL’ SIBLING How to support brothers and sisters of kids with special needs ISTOCK

WORDS KATELIN WALLING

HEN YOU HAVE A CHILD with

special needs, you undoubtedly experience a variety of feelings.

Overwhelm from all the doctors’ appointments and services. Stress from advocating for your child.

Exhaustion from juggling it all.

Extreme joy when your child makes progress. But what about your child without special needs?

How does having a sibling with special needs impact them? What might they be feeling?

Shelby Dombroski, a special education facilitator for Grand Prairie ISD, has a sibling with special needs. She says kiddos in a similar family dynamic may feel protective of their sibling, jealous about how much time Mom and Dad give them and sometimes angry about a lack of attention.

And as your children get older, they may start to feel scared about eventually being their sibling’s caregiver, resentful about the world seeming to revolve around the sibling and even guilty for having these feelings, adds Raven Pritchett, services for students with autism coordinator for Grand Prairie ISD. Dombroski and Pritchett are also the facilitators for the Grand Prairie ISD Sibshops, which offer support and social connections for siblings of children with special needs through the Sibling Support Project.

Sisters and brothers of children with special needs tend to grow up a little bit faster than their peers because of added expectations, roles and responsibilities, says Dombroski. While you likely don’t explicitly tell your kids to strive for any of the following, they may feel like they need to: • Take care of their sibling— whether it’s helping them around the house or at school, sticking up for them

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special needs / T H E ‘ T Y P I C A L ’ S I B L I N G with bullies or including them in social situations.

• Be perfect so they don’t cause Mom or Dad any added stress.

• Be overachievers because they may feel like there are much higher expectations put on them, Pritchett says.

• Regularly share the spotlight on special occasions (like school dances or even their wedding) and bring their sibling along on social outings.

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While growing up with a sibling with special needs comes with challenges, their experiences often lead them to become compassionate and empathetic at a young age. These children have an amazing world view and can make people feel welcome and loved.

Courtney Morey is a Fort Worth mom of Wells, 5, and Annie, 3, founder of Annie Louise Foundation and the advocate behind @fancylikeannie on Instagram. Annie has Down syndrome, but Morey says her son sees only his sister. “I’ll ask [Wells], ‘What about your sister is different?’ And he’s like, ‘she wears bows.’ He doesn’t see her disability, which is so beautiful because Annie’s just Annie to him, and that’s honestly how it is with a lot of the kiddos that are around me a lot.”

Children who have a sibling with special needs also develop the soft skills that are so important in adulthood, including gratitude, patience, flexibility, adaptability, determination and a calm demeanor in the face of challenges.

SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD

SPECIAL NEEDS A relatable, once a month newsletter for parents of children with special needs.

dfwchild.com/newsletter

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december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

While you may feel overwhelmed with ensuring your child with special needs gets the support and services they need, it’s equally important to remember your little ones without special needs require support, too. Here are some things you can do.

Establish open lines of communication. Explain to your child, in age-appropriate ways, why their sibling needs extra care and attention. Be sure to talk about their sibling’s needs and let them know they can talk to you about how they’re feeling or what they need—and that it’s always OK to ask questions.

Spend quality one-on-one time with your child. Meaningful connections with your little one strengthens their bond with you, boosts their self-esteem and helps with their development. It also shows your child that they’re just as important as their sibling.

This one-on-one time doesn’t have to be extravagant; it can be as simple as reading books together at bedtime, going for a

walk around the neighborhood or playing together for 10-15 minutes. It’s all about quality of time, not quantity.

Include your child in their sibling’s services, if possible. In the year after a heart surgery that Annie needed, almost all of her therapy was in–home, so Morey focused on involving Wells in the play-based therapies.

“It wasn’t like, this is your sister’s time, you need to go in the other room and play or watch TV,” she says. “So I really tried to include him in those things and make it feel for him like we were just playing.”

Ensure your child has their own activities. “I was really grateful that my parents let me have outlets outside my house,” Dombroski recalls. “I had friend circles or groups that were just mine. …It gave me that outlet to know I’m important. I have my own time. I have my own life. I’m not defined by my sibling. I’m defined by who I am in my strengths and weaknesses.”

Ask for help. When you have a child with special needs or a medical diagnosis, chances are many friends and family members will say, “Let me know how I can help.” While accepting that help may be difficult, take them up on it. Ask them to spend some time with your kiddo while you’re attending to your child with special needs. See if they’ll go grocery shopping for you so you can spend time with your child.

And if you’re a medical parent, Morey suggests asking someone you trust to sit with your child in the hospital while you give your little one undivided attention.

Find your community. “Another huge thing that I attribute to Wells’ well-being is the Down syndrome community. It’s just a really tight knit community, especially in DFW,” Morey says. She says Wells has made friends with other siblings of children with Down syndrome, so he has peers who have similar experiences.

Establish outside support for your child. Even if you’ve established open lines of communication with your child, they may not want to share their feelings. In fact, they may feel embarrassed by or ashamed of their feelings, Pritchett says. That’s why it’s important to find your child outside support to talk about and work through those feelings, whether it’s another trusted adult, like an aunt, uncle or family friend, or even therapy.

While these ideas are simple, they’ll have a lasting impact. In fact, giving your child this support will help them process and mitigate any negative feelings they’re experiencing, leading them to have an even better relationship with their sibling.

A website for families raising children with disabilities For parents, by parents “This website makes me feel calm about helping our children.

It relieves our doubts. It’s very friendly and easy to understand.”

Visit navigatelifetexas.org/dfw-child to find: • Connection to support groups • Personal stories from families like yours • Answers to your questions about insurance, schools, diagnosis, and more

Find the resources you need at navigatelifetexas.org/dfw-child Todo el contenido disponible en español a project of:

special needs / C A L E N D A R WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

retreat to the Calming Room and more extra playtime in Galaxy Park, the museum’s outdoor all-abilities playground. Free with admission: $16 adults; $12 children; under 3 free. 817/255-9300; fwmuseum.org DINOSAURS QUIET December 9–February 10 HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, MCKINNEY

➽ Come sit on Santa’s lap or beside him— whatever level of interaction makes your child most comfortable—at Autism Treatment Center December 1–2.

Have a child on the autism spectrum who’s also obsessed with dinosaurs? This is for you. On second Saturday mornings during the remaining months of the Heard’s Dinosaurs Live residency, the dozen animatronic dinos on display along the trail will pause their usual roars and movements to lend a calmer, quieter environment.

Included in general admission: $12 adults; $9 children; under 3 free.

972/562-5566; heardmuseum.org/ dinosaurs-live COOKIES, COCOA & THE CLAUSES December 9 DOWN SYNDROME PARTNERSHIP OF NORTH TEXAS

14 Sensory-friendly & fun places to go this winter PHOTOS WITH SANTA December 1–2 AUTISM TREATMENT CENTER, DALLAS

Kids or adults on the spectrum—and their siblings, too—are all welcome to meet Santa during this two-day event. While waiting in line, your kids can keep busy with games and activities, and after telling Santa their Christmas wishes, he’ll send them off with a goody bag and you with a printed photo. The event is at no charge, but you must sign up online for time slots by hour. FREE 972/644-2076; atcoftexas.org/santa ABILITIES EXPO December 1–3 DALLAS MARKET HALL

So your child uses a wheelchair. They can still scale an adaptive rock wall and try out more adaptive sports at this annual event and expo, with everything from products and workshops to services and service dog demonstrations. Register online.

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Need an ASL interpreter? Request one at the Accessibility Help Desk at no cost. FREE abilities.com/dallas SANTA CARES December 3 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Meeting Santa Claus for the first time (or the 10th time) is a magical moment. And thanks in part to Autism Speaks, you can bring your kids of all ages to see him without the intense lights and loud sounds.

Register online for your time slot at one of about 10 local malls. Free for meet and greet held on this Sunday morning before the doors open to the public; photo package optional. santacares.whereissanta.com SENSORY-FRIENDLY SHOW: THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVE December 3 CASA MAÑANA, FORT WORTH

The Herdmans family’s kids are a loud bunch, even more so

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

after they’re roped into starring in a Christmas pageant. And so it goes in this musical based on the best-selling book and play by Barbara Robinson. But during this Sunday morning performance, the Herdsmans’ microphones and all the production’s lights and sounds will be turned down. And if it’s still too loud for your kids, you can always take a break in the theater’s quiet room. Tickets from $24.

817/332-2272; casamanana.org SENSORY TIME December 6 & February 7 FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

On the first Wednesday of every month (except January), this famously kid-friendly museum shuts off its music and dims its lighting to better provide more calming spaces. Registration is encouraged but not required. If you’d like, stop by the ticket counter to borrow a sensory backpack,

TEEN & FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT December 9 ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE CINEMA, RICHARDSON

The 2003 comedy Elf has an enduring following, especially during the holidays. Bring out your teenagers for this private watch party just for the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas. This dine-in movie theater for a private screening of the 2003 comedy Elf. Alamo is a full-service dine-in theater, so you can order off the menu, or enjoy the bottomless soda and popcorn that comes with your ticket.

Free for teens 13–17 with Down syndrome; $10 each for immediate family members. Register by December 3. 214/267-1374; downsyndromedallas.org SENSORY-FRIENDLY BALLET December 16 & February 10 MOODY PERFORMANCE HALL, DALLAS

Think the ballet is out of your league? Absolutely not! Ballet North Texas stages two performances this winter for those with autism and others who would better enjoy the show with reduced

PHOTO COURTESY OF AUTISM TREATMENT CENTER

HOLIDAY MODE

It’s not a party until Santa shows up. And he’s due to make an appearance at this come-and-go holiday party, offering keepsake photos, a hot chocolate bar and cookie decorating for the kids.

RSVP online to join. FREE 682/3163121; dspnt.org

Developmental Preschool and Therapy Services for children with special needs APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY SPEECH THERAPY SERVING CHILDREN BIRTH TO 21 YEARS OLD 6025 Sports Village Rd | Frisco, TX 75033 214.687.9374 | PediatricsPlus.com DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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special needs / C A L E N D A R

CHISHOLM CHALLENGE January 8–10 WILL ROGERS COLISEUM, FORT WORTH

LinkED gives comprehensive neuroeducational testing to determine your child's learning profile, learning differences or disabilities, ADHD or autism. LinkED also gives educational consultations and Highlands aptitude testing for college and career.

www.link-ed.org

Where you can get the answers you need.

The bond between a horse and its rider is hard-won.

And at this 20th annual competition, hundreds of equestrians with disabilities—who train with horses through equine therapy and for the fun of it!—can show off their hard-won skills.

Think of it as a prelude to the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (January 12–February 3). But first, head inside the John Justin Arena to witness and cheer on the competitors. Check back for more details and times for the opening ceremonies. FREE 817/877-2420; chisholmchallenge.com ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY! January 28 & February 3 DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER

The children’s book author Mo Willems is famous for cheekily breaking that fourth wall with the reader. Your young readers who are sensory sensitive will get to experience his hilarious story on stage (best for 3 and up) during an American Sign Languageinterpreted show in January and a sensory show in February, when they’ll lower the volume and open up a quiet room if you child needs to step out. Look online for social stories and a parents’ tip sheet. Plus, tickets for the sensory show are only $5. 214/740-0051; dct.org NIGHT TO SHINE February 9 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Prom is a rite of passage—and one that your teenager or young adult can experience thanks to the Tim Tebow Foundation, which sponsors annual dance parties worldwide exclusively for people with special needs. The best part? Every participant is crowned king or queen, so that everyone gets to be the star of the show. To find a participating location near you, search the online map (at press time, we counted about a dozen loca54

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

tions across Dallas-Fort Worth) and reach out to the church directly to request an invite for your child 14 or older. FREE 904/380-8499; timtebowfoundation.org/night-to-shine AIRA AT MEOW WOLF Year-round MEOW WOLF, GRAPEVINE

Only a few months after becoming a Certified Autism Center, this still-new immersive attraction is expanding its disability accommodations yet again, this time joining up with Aira, a visual interpreting service.

Here’s how it works: Guests who are blind or have low vision can download the free Aira app on your smartphone and listen through headphones to a professionally-trained agent who describes the Meow Wolf’s perspective-shifting art, sharing and guides through the spaces.

Tickets vary by day but start at $40 for adults and $20 for children; under 4 free. meowwolf.com/grapevine SENSORY-FRIENDLY HOURS Year-round WALMART STORES, NATIONWIDE

OK this isn’t quite an event, per say, but it’s big news for families who regularly take their kids along with them on grocery runs. In November 2023, one of the largest retailers in the world announced that every single store in the country will offer sensory-friendly hours from 8–10am every single day.

This means radios are turned off, lights are lowered, TV walls to a static image—small things that add up to a less stimulating visit. walmart.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TIM TEBOW FOUNDATION; GLENN ROSS, MEOW WOLF

lighting and sound. They’re also welcoming of families to talk freely with each other and even use electronics if that makes your child more comfortable.

Tickets from $28. 214/871-5000; balletnorthtexas.org

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A

COUNSELOR Licensed Professional with 25 years of

EXPERIENCE

means a perspective you can trust Parent consultation is an important part of

SUPPORTING

Lyn Rodriguez Neisius, LPC, LSSP

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

To schedule your free in-home informational visit, please contact Aaron (469) 781-6774 or gethelp@vnatexas.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

you with parenting your child

Under Construction: 8-12 year olds build emotional self-regulation skills using fun, research-based methods in a 6-week small group Small Social Groups: online and in-person 6344 Davis Blvd., Suite 200 North Richland Hills, TX 76180 682-328-3458 yourchildscounselor.com admin@yourchildscounselor.com

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D F W C H I L D I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H U T S O U T H W E S T E R N M E D I C A L C E N T E R

· HOW BIG IS BABY THIS WEEK? · WHAT CHANGES ARE HAPPENING WITH YOUR BODY? · HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOUR PELVIC FLOOR? · ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR A VBAC? ALL THOSE QUESTIONS, PLUS MANY MORE, ANSWERED IN AN EMAIL TAILORED TO YOUR CURRENT WEEK OF PREGNANCY

OH BABY! A Week-by-Week Guide to Your Pregnancy

➽ Delivered to your inbox or available 24/7 online at dfwchild.com

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STEM GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

STEM G U I D E

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

Prince of Peace Christian School Home of the POPCS SmartLab® Prince of Peace Christian School boasts two state-of-the-art SmartLab® spaces, a 3,000-square-foot lab in the Lower School serving students in Kindergarten–Grade 5, and a 1,200-square-foot lab that serves middle and upper school students.

The unique SmartLab® setting offers students a STEM learning experience that incorporates problem solving, critical thinking, design and innovation with important soft skills such as public speaking and collaboration. The program reinforces academics with real-world learning while building next-generational skills, taking students from consumers of technology to producers of technology.

SmartLab® activities include robotics, software engineering, mechanics, circuitry, scientific data and analysis, computer graphics, and digital media arts.

Students engage in authentic first-hand experiences, building and inspiring interest in STEM activities in the years to come!

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

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STEM GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm, and Sunday, 12–4pm. Visitors have the opportunity to explore Irving’s pioneer past and multicultural present. IAM’s primary goal is to connect with the community in an environment that welcomes everyone. IAM also features a Smithsonian Spark!Lab, a first of its kind in Texas. In Spark!Lab, we believe everyone is inventive.

Every day we provide opportunities for children and families to explore their inventive creativity—to create, innovate, collaborate, and problem-solve—because these experiences empower kids to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed today and in the future.

Irving Archives and Museum 801 W. Irving Blvd., Irving, TX 75060 972-721-3700 irvingarchivesandmuseum.com

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STEM GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Incorporating Religion and Art allows for an expanded STREAM experience at St. Rita Catholic School.

Our students learn the foundational skills of STREAM and what each letter represents: Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math. Students utilize problem-based learning and exploratory play to investigate different interdisciplinary concepts in each class.

With both a Makerspace and Innovation Lab, all grade levels are creating and inventing to the ends of their imagination.

St. Rita Catholic School 12525 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX 75244 972-239-3203 strita.net

Discover Your Ursuline The oldest continuously operating school in Dallas, Ursuline Academy is an independent Catholic college preparatory school for young women sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters. In this nurturing, all-girl environment, students are empowered to think critically and creatively, giving them skills needed for college and beyond.

Ursuline Academy does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, or national and ethnic origin.

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

DFWChild.com Directory Helping parents successfully navigate the

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

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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JANUARY 12 - FEBRUARY 3 • Celebrate Fort Worth’s Western Heritage • Action-packed rodeo • Mattress Firm Petting Zoo • Carnival/Midway excitement • Live music at the Bud Light Roadhouse • Shopping galore

Family-friendly fun!

Grounds Admission: on-site purchase

Adults - $12 Ages 6 to 16 - $6 Ages 5 and Under - Free

PURCHASE RODEO TICKETS BOX OFFICE 1911 MONTGOMERY ST.

Arena

817-502-0011

BUY NOW

DF

EN TS

W C H I L D .C

FOR DAILY

EV

O

playbook M

VI S

IT

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

➽ More than 700 railcars race along a magical, miniature landscape in The Trains at NorthPark, open through January 5.

ALL ABOARD

➽ 28 FA M I LY F U N E V E N T S I N D E C E M B E R & J A N UA R Y A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

Through December 23

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRET REDMAN

DALL AS CHILDREN’S THEATER

DCT’s 40th anniversary season goes retro with this production starring the Peanuts gang and Snoopy too. Come before the show to see Santa himself in the lobby and join photo ops and activities, like drawing yourself as a Peanuts

character. Want more DCT? Book your seats for Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play, opening January 21.

Tickets from $20. 214/7400051; dct.org STORY TIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

Through December 23 GALLERIA DALL AS

Saving all the dollars you can until the big day? On Saturday mornings, take

the kids up to the third floor Children’s Play Place (be sure to take a look at the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the ice rink, first) for this free story reading with Santa’s other half. FREE (Have room in the budget for more fun? The SNOWDAY immersive attraction next to Santaland runs through January 7.) 972/702-7100; galleriadallas.com

LIGHTS ON THE FARM

Through December 30

HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM, PL ANO

Visit with Santa Claus and make your own s’mores at this historic farm’s annual holiday fest—made more festive with themed nights every Saturday. Expect to see lots of princesses and princes, for example, on December 16 and the Grinch on December 23. Online

in advance: $12 adults; $7 children; under 3 free. At the door: $15 adults; $10 children. 972/881-0140; heritagefarmstead.org ICE! FEATURING HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS

Through December 31 GAYLORD TEXAN, GRAPEVINE

We’d like to see the Grinch try stuffing this into his Santa

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playbook / T H I N G S T O D O RIVER LEGACY NATURE CENTER, ARLINGTON

How exactly does wood wind up in our everyday products?

This new exhibition gives kids a wider view (the forest for the trees, if you will) by inviting them to do what they do best—play! Here kids can climb and crawl through a play place of logs and tree limbs, load and unload lumber onto a train, and build a playhouse with wood components. $10 adults; $7 children; under 3 free. 817/8606752; riverlegacy.org WORLD OF BARBIE

➽ HOLIDAY AT THE ARBORETUM

bag: two million pounds of colorful ice carved into elaborate sculptures—and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Come explore the two dozen or so winter fun activities and entertainment including realice slides worthy of Whoville cheer. Pricing varies by activity. 817/778-1000; christmasatgaylordtexan.com PRAIRIE LIGHTS

Through December 31 LYNN CREEK PARK, GRAND PRAIRIE

Halfway through this drive-thru lights show along the Joe Pool Lake shores, hop out of the car and stretch your legs with a stroll through the Holiday Village and the Walk-Thru Forest, where Santa and snacks await. $50 per car. The fast pass allows you to select your arrival time and skip the line. 972/2374569; prairielights.org FUNBOX

Through December 31 THE SHOPS AT WILLOW BEND, PL ANO

This one’s for all the kids out there who go gaga for bounce houses. This megasized bounce house is more like a bounce city—with 10 play zones. Each jump session runs 90 minutes, so the kids will hopefully be worn out.

Get your timed tickets online for weekend admission: $19; under 3 free with a ticketed adult. funbox.com/plano LIGHTSCAPE

Through January 1 FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

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Through May 31

STONEBRIAR CENTRE, FRISCO

This outdoor lighting exhibition returning for a second year is worth a second look—80% of the displays are new this year. Come marvel at the colorful sights in and around the garden’s trees and lawns, as you follow a 1.2-mile walking path that loops around the garden. Strollers and wagons are welcome. Pricing varies by date: Off-peak: $23 adults; $15 children; under 3 free. $50 for anytime tickets. 817/463-4160; fwbg. org/lightscape DALLAS ZOO LIGHTS

Through January 2 DALL AS ZOO

The zoo may already be your kids’ favorite outing. Now add onto that all the joy and colors of holiday lights? Yes, please!

Visit the zoo after dark on select nights to visit Santa’s Village, see 60 larger-than-life animal lanterns and take in the two million twinkle lights on display. Nonmember tickets from $19 for adults and from $15 for children; under 3 free.

Advance tickets required.

469/554-7501; dallaszoo.com HOLIDAY AT THE ARBORETUM

Through January 5

DALL AS ARBORETUM

The arboretum brings back its gorgeous exhibition of German-style Christmas Village with custom Christmas Pyramid, and the 12 Days of Christmas gazebos. For maximum Christmas sparkle, go after dark to see all the attrac-

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

tions set aglow. Daytime admission: $20 adults; $12 children; under 2 free.

Nighttime admission varies but starts at $15 for adults and $13 children. 214/5156615; dallasarboretum.org THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK

Through January 5 NORTHPARK CENTER, DALL AS

See if your kids can recognize any of the local landmark buildings in this 25th annual mini train exhibit (the largest in Texas), now at new spot in the mall: on level one near Santa. $10 adults; $5 children; under 2 free.

Looking for a fancy souvenir to remember the visit?

Order a personalized railcar, available through December 4. Proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. 214/631-7354; thetrainsatnorthpark.com HARRY POTTER: A FORBIDDEN FOREST EXPERIENCE

Through January 13 LITTLE ELM PARK

Hey Potter fans, here’s your chance to cast your own Patronus spell, bow politely to a Hippogriff and act out more scenes from both the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series—all during an illuminated walk through the woods. Pricing varies by date, but tickets start at $44 for adults, $29 for children; under 3 free. hpforbiddenforestexperience.com

This is not Ken’s Mojo Dojo Casa House, it’s Barbie’s Dreamhouse made life-size.

This all-ages, immersive exhibition features all sorts of vignettes. And they’re not just photo ops. Here you can record a song in the Sound Studio, man the controls inside her Interstellar Rocket, and customize your own doll’s outfit from the Build It Barbie closet. Timed tickets from $35 for adults, $26 for children, under 1 free. dallas. theworldofbarbie.com T. REX: THE ULTIMATE PREDATOR

Through September 22

PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE, DALL AS

The Perot knows dinos. (Did you hear about the new species its paleontologists discovered last month in Grapevine?) So you know this just-opened exhibition all about the T. rex (both the hero and archnemesis of many a dino movie) will be fascinating. Come see the life-sized models and fossil casts for general admission, plus $8 adults; $7 children; under 2 free. 214/428-5555; perotmuseum.org/t-rex HOME ON THE RANGE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

December 1–23

OMNI PGA FRISCO RESORT

The new Frisco home of the PGA opens its inaugural holiday festivities to the public on Friday and Saturday nights. Bring the family for the live reindeer and a longhorn, train rides, ornament making, and Putting

for Presents, a 9-hole putting experience for all ages. $30 for children; free for adults and kids under 3.

More activities are exclusive to overnight resort guests. pgafrisco.com/events DALLAS HOLIDAY PARADE

December 2

DOWNTOWN DALL AS

With all the giant heliumfilled balloons floating down Commerce Street—a nutcracker, Santa, Frosty the Snowman and Snowflakes— this 35th annual parade is really giving “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade” level energy. For the best view, reserve bleacher seats starting at $25, or come early to find a spot along the sidewalks for free. dallasholidayparade.com CHRISTMAS IN THE STOCKYARDS

December 2

FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS

We love a Cowboy Christmas. (Texas longhorns can double as reindeer, can’t they?) So we’re ready for the return of holiday celebrations in this historic district.

Come for the Cowboy Santa photos, rodeos inside the Cowtown Coliseum, and more quintessentially-Texan experiences. The Stockyards Rodeo Rink too, back for its second-ever year, is open through January 7. Pricing varies by activity. 817/625-9715; fortworthstockyards.com DICKENS IN DOWNTOWN PLANO

December 2

HAGGARD PARK, PL ANO

How exactly does one “honour Christmas in [your] heart and try to keep it all the year,” as Charles Dickens once wrote? Well, we think that it starts with snow hill sliding.

Come take a joy ride down a real snow hill, take photos with Santa, and watch the mayor flip the switch on the tree lighting. FREE 972/9415600; plano.gov MERRY & BRIGHT DRONE SHOW

December 2, 9 & 16

GRAPEVINE MAIN STATION & CIT Y HALL

The drone fleet is even larger this year with 200 drones taking shape in the skies on these Saturdays

PHOTO COURTESY OF DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN

FOREVER FOREST

Through February 10

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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playbook / T H I N G S T O D O

DOG MAN: THE MUSICAL

January 11–28

WYLY THEATER, DALL AS

What is it about crime-fighting puppies that we can’t resist? (Looking at you, PAW Patrol.) Here, starring in his own musical is Dog Man, a character with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, from the mind of Captain Underpants creator Dav Pilkey. Tickets from $35.

214/880-0202; attpac.org DALLAS MLK DAY PARADE

January 15

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BLVD, DALL AS

Join up locals to commemorate the life of the late civil rights leader and his philosophy of nonviolence.

You can either watch the floats from the sidelines or take an active part as a family by making your own sign and joining in the walking parade. Register online.

Hosted by the City of Dallas and nonprofit H.E.L.P (Hope. Encourage. Love.

Protect). FREE 214/6708418; dallasmlkcenter.com USA FILM FESTIVAL’S KIDFILM

January 20–21

AL AMO DRAFTHOUSE L AKE HIGHL ANDS, DALL AS

Think film festivals are only for adults? This 40th annual

event (at a new location this year) is just for kids—particularly kids who love to read too. Here you’ll get to meet two award-winning children’s authors/illustrators—Sophie Blackall (If I Was a Horse) and Sara Varon (Robot Dreams)— and watch film adaptations based on their books and many more short films.

Admission is free and so are the books, author signings and photos. FREE 214/8213456; usafilmfestival.com

TINY TEXANS

EAGER TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE with your baby or toddler? You’ll find age-appropriate activities and entertainment for kids 4 and younger at these shows, activities and festivals.

DALLAS AREA TRAIN SHOW

January 20–21

PL ANO EVENT CENTER

Got a kid who’s taken a liking to the quintessential train set around the Christmas tree? Encourage your tiny train-lovers new obsession with a visit to this annual show, hosted by North Texas Council of Railroad Clubs. They’ll have mini train layouts set up and a store too for adding to your kids’ collection. $10 admission for adults; under 13 free.

972/941-5840; dfwtrainshows.com DISNEY’S ALADDIN

January 31–February 4 BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

Should we call him “Al”? Or maybe just “Din”? Laugh out loud to all of Genie’s famous one-liners when this Broadway touring musical stop into the Bass, its only destination in North Texas.

Keep in mind that it’s a longer show than the movie: 2.5 hours, but kids 6 and up who wish to attend are welcome.

Tickets vary by day but start at $55. 817/212-4280; basshall.com/aladdin ➽ DISNEY’S ALADDIN

CHRISTMAS PUPPET SHOWS

Through January 1

NORTHPARK CENTER, DALL AS

Scrooge Puppet Theater and The Tale of the Yeti’s Christmas Spaghetti are the perfect length for short attention spans, and they recur regularly throughout the day (see online for the schedule) on level one near Dillard’s.

Scrooge and Yeti perform through Christmas Eve, and the 28-foottall, Bavarian-style Twelve Days of Christmas Clock chimes through New Year’s Day. FREE 214/363-7441; northparkcenter.com TEA WITH THE SUGAR PLUM FAIRY

December 3

ALLEN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Even if your child is too young to sit through an entire Nutcracker ballet, they can still meet the Sugar Plum Fairy by joining this special tea hosted by Allen Civic Ballet. Reserve your seat and plate for $25; free for littles 0–2 who sit on their parents’ lap. Think they’ll love the show too? Allen Civic Ballet’s performances are December 9–10. Tickets from $20 and are not needed for infants or toddlers who sit on your lap. 972/7275959; allencivicballet.org

BLIPPI: THE WONDERFUL WORLD TOUR

December 12

WILL ROGERS AUDITORIUM, FORT WORTH

For all your kids who absolutely lose their minds over Blippi, he’s on tour again— well, a professional stage performer in character as Blippi—with his crew. Best for 2- to 6-year-olds. Tickets from $32, and up. $50 for meet and greet with the Blippi character and one of his machines.

Can’t squeeze it in during all the holiday hustle and bustle? He’s coming back in May 2024 to Frisco. 817/402-9801; blippithewonderfulworldtour.com FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO

January 12–February 3

DICKIES ARENA & WILL ROGERS COLISEUM, FORT WORTH

Speaking objectively here, there’s nothing cuter than a baby in cowboy boots—of which there are sure to be plenty toddling around at this annual festival dating back to 1896. The go-to attractions for the most toddler-friendly fun is in the petting zoo ($2 for feed) and pony rides ($5). Both open daily from 9am–7:30pm, next to the carnival and midway. General grounds admission: $12 adults; $6 children; under 6 free. Rodeo tickets sold separately.

817/877-2420; fwssr.com

F O R M O R E K I D - F R I E N D LY E N T E R T A I N M E N T E V E R Y D AY O F T H E W E E K , V I S I T O U R O N L I N E C A L E N DA R AT D F W C H I L D.CO M/C A L E N DA R.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROUND ROOM LIVE AND MOONBUG ENTERTAINMENT; DEEN VAN MEER, DISNEY

at 8pm sharp. The show lasts under 10 minutes, so don’t be late or you’ll miss it! FREE Of course there’s much more fun to be had on Main Street at the Christmas Capital of Texas.

Come early to get some time on the Peace Plaza Skating Rink, open through January 7. $20, includes ice skate rentals. 817/410-3185; christmascapitaloftexas.com

I

B

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2024

Help us pick DFW’s best: + Museum for kids + Place to see animals + Kid-friendly bookstore + Party venue & entertainment

+ Hospital to have a baby + Birthing center + Child care center + Babysitting service & more...

SCAN OR VISIT DFWCHILD.COM/BESTSURVEY TO PICK YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLACES & SERVICES PLUS YOU’LL BE ENTERED IN A DRAWING FOR A $250 VISA GIFT CARD

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Family Fun 22 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES KIDS WILL LOVE ‘Tis the season for family fun, and there is plenty of it happening here in DFW and beyond. From holiday festivals and visits with Santa to museums and rodeos, here's a roundup of great events for the whole family.

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1

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

Check out the Carter's free monthly family events designed to encourage art exploration, inspire curiosity and spark creativity for babies, toddlers and beyond!

See ad on page 13.

2

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

The BEP Tour and Visitor Center includes two floors of exhibits and displays, a selfguided tour and a gift shop. TVC is open Tuesday–Friday, 8:30am-5:30pm with last tour at 4:30pm. See ad on page 7.

3

City of Irving irvingevents.org 972/721-2501

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

See ad on page 63.

4

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden dallasarboretum.org 214/542-0620

Holiday at the Arboretum, presented by Reliant, returns with the popular Christmas Village, The 12 Days of Christmas, the Dazzling Musical Tree and weekend Visits with Santa. The festival runs through January 5, 2024. Reservations required.

5

Day 1 DFW day1dfw.com 214/368-8686

Activities include magic shows, arts and crafts, inflatable slides, face painting, balloon art, tattoo art, sports area, live animal and reptile shows, live music and DJs, the Neon and Glow Dance Party and much more. See ad on page 14.

6

DCM Holiday Market dentonmarket.org 940/268-4326

Please join us for the DCM Holiday Market on Saturdays, December 16 and 23, 9am–3pm in Denton. Local artisans, live music and 100+ vendors. You might even catch Santa doing some shopping!

7

Downtown Ennis visitennistexas.com/lightsofennis 972/878-4748

Create holiday memories in historic downtown Ennis. Enjoy snow hill tubing, carriage rides, roller skating, cookies with Mrs. Claus and more. Stroll the streets of downtown for holiday music, snow and the best holiday photo ops! See ad on page 13.

8

Farmers Branch Parks & Recreation fbspecialevents.com 972/919-2620

Whether it's our Nature Preserve, Historical Park, or our much anticipated glow-inthe-dark playground, Joya at Oran Good Park, Farmers Branch Parks & Recreation offers award-winning parks, programs and events that your family will love.

9

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

Come to where the “West Is Fun,” at the 2024 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo.

Experience rodeo, tantalizing food, shopping, livestock shows, live music, carnivalmidway, equestrian competitions, petting zoo and much more. See ad on page 60.

december 2023/january 2024 | DFWCHILD

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

10

Fort Worth Stockyards fortworthstockyards.com 817/625-9715

Celebrate the holidays Stockyards Style, with festivities including a holiday ice skating rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, cozy fire pits, live music, spectacular holiday lights and more.

11

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

The iconic 95-foot-tall Christmas tree makes Galleria Dallas recognized as one of the biggest, brightest, happiest holiday celebrations. Santaland is a must-visit for everyone! Plus, the season’s most engaging immersive photo experience, SNOWDAY. See ad on back cover.

12

Gaylord Texan Resort christmasatgaylordtexan.com

Experience the beloved Gaylord Texan tradition—ICE!. See Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! brought to life in ice, zoom down epic frozen slides, and explore our extraordinary resort and endless Christmas activities. See ad on page 15.

13

Heritage Farmstead Museum Lights on the Farm app.gopassage.com/events/lights-on-thefarm-2023 • 972/881-0140

A must-visit holiday event. Close to 2 million twinkling magical lights create a whimsical wonderland. From penguins, polar bears and snowmen to a 20-foot Christmas tree, there is something for everyone.

14

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

In Spark!Lab, at Irving Archives and Museum, children engage in hands-on activities that combine STEM with art, history and creativity. Children explore the invention process and learn about the role invention has played throughout history. See ad on page 58.

15

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa jwhillcountrychristmas.com 210/275-2500

New holiday activities at JW Marriott San Antonio for 2023. Enjoy ice tubing and more. Use code DFWChild23 for 20% off tickets to Snow Flow Mountain. Blackout dates may apply. Visit jwhillcountrychristmas.com.

16

KidFilm Family Festival usafilmfestival.com 214/821-6300

It's here! The all-free-admission KidFilm Family Festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday, January 20–21, 2024. Featuring appearances by children’s book authors and new films for all ages. Alamo Drafthouse Lake Highlands. See ad on page 21.

17

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

Bah humbug! Get into the holiday spirit with tickets to Scrooge the Musical, December 6–17 in Plano. Students in K–5 can explore literature at Winter Break Theatre Camps in Plano, Fairview, Frisco, Dallas and Southlake. See ad on page 10.

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NorthPark Center northparkcenter.com/holiday 214/363-7441

NorthPark Center invites you and your family to share the magic of the holidays this season with The Trains at NorthPark, visits with Santa, Scrooge Puppet Theatre, Gingertown, holiday performances and so much more. See ad on page 4.

19

Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/296-9950

Take the holidays to new heights! Reunion Tower is the top spot for family fun with the best 360-degree view of Dallas. Visit our website for more info. See ad on page 6.

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

Climb tree tops and work a kid-sized train replica to explore the forest this winter in our newest visiting exhibit, Forever Forest, produced by Omaha Children's Museum. Open from open through February 10, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm. See ad on page 13.

21

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

Festivity abounds at The Shops this season. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa photo experience, Victorian carolers, Elf at The Shops, Mrs. Claus Storytime sponsored

by DCTA, Christmas tree lighting shows and more. See ad on page 7.

22

Walnut's Wassail Walk friscotexas.gov/1360/events 972/292-6500

Join Play Frisco for a holiday event for all ages at the Frisco Heritage Village!

Experience roaming carolers, pop-up musicians, local arts groups, holiday-themed activities, hot wassail and Walnut the Squirrel.

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playbook / F A M I L Y F U N the play table. They can choose from a selection of children’s books, many of which emphasize inclusivity, and get comfy on floor pillows.

Look online for upcoming special events: author signings, story times, holiday-themed readings. In 2024, Vega plans to add more ticketed Play Dates at the Bookshop, programs that include a story time, a book to take home and a related activity.

Check out this bookshop Wednesday–Saturday 11am–7pm or Sunday noon–5pm (closed Monday and Tuesday). On weekends, they offer fresh pastries from La Casita Bakeshop. // Dallas, 469/885-8004; whosebooks.shop

➽ ABOVE: Now at its second location, Whose Books isn’t far from another independent bookstore, The Wild Detectives, and just a skip away from the playground at Kidd Springs Park.

The 5 most kid-friendly independent bookstores WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

IN RECENT YEARS, THE LITERARY WORLD has seen a resurgence of brick-andmortar, independently-owned bookstores. And locally, several of these additions are particularly friendly to young readers, offering free regular story times, special activities and even play spaces where your littles can relax and read to their heart’s desire.

Whether you’re trying to build an at-home book collection for them, looking to shop local this holiday season, or seeking out a new “third place” outside of home and school—take a look here at some of our favorite indie bookstores most worth a visit for your family.

TA L K I N G A N I M A L S B O O K S

It’s a great name, is it not? For that, Grapevine’s first and only independent bookstore draws inspiration from the anthropomorphic characters in C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia. Award-winning writer Katy Lemieux and business partner Valerie Walizadeh opened Talking Animals in February 2023 along Grapevine’s historic Main Street, not far from all the action you’ll find this season in the Christmas Capital of Texas.

“It is not a stuffy store. We love having kids running around, laughing and feeling at home,” say the co-owners. “Sometimes the kids just need a change of scenery and love something to do outside of the house.”

Come visit between 11am and 5pm Tuesday– Sunday (closed Monday). On Saturdays year68

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round, they host 11:30am story readings—followed by a craft in a cozy playroom downstairs.

The playroom is enclosed with a baby gate, and the restroom is equipped with a changing table and supplies. This makes it a great spot too for hosting play dates, which they do for local mom groups, such as the Grapevine Colleyville Southlake Moms League, before the store opens to the public. // Grapevine, 682/223-1311; talkinganimalsbooks.com

WHOSE BOOKS

Claudia Vega and husband John, both educators raised in Oak Cliff, first opened Whose Books two years ago with a mission to make books more accessible. Here inside the kids’ section, your young readers can enjoy hours at

FRANKLIN BOOKS

Story time is anytime at this colorful reading lounge and bookstore, open since April inside The Shops at Willow Bend. Anytime during mall open hours, parents can stop into this space, on level one near the Crayola Experience, with their kids to read together or with a staff member.

Toddlers will especially love cuddling with the oversized teddy bears and rearranging the removable sea creatures on the story time wall.

But this bookstore is unlike the others because here, if you choose, you can also learn how to write and publish your very own stories. Kids in elementary up to adults are welcome to register for free book writing workshops, held on a couple Sundays each month and led by the bookstore’s namesake, Franklin Edwards. This young writer and entrepreneur has independently published more than a dozen of his own books, each starring the character Franklin the Helper.

If you’re visiting any day this holiday, make it Thursday, December 21, when Franklin hosts a Grinch Pajama Movie Night & Face Painting. Sign up online for your spot for $8. // Plano, 469/793-4296; franklinthehelper.com

I N T E R A BA N G B O O K S

We make no secret that Interabang—named after the little-known punctuation mark that combines a question mark and exclamation point (‽)—has long been a favorite amongst our editors since it originally opened in 2017.

Interabang welcomes all ages, even newborns, to its twice-weekly story times, every Wednes-

PHOTO COURTESY WHOSE BOOKS; FRANKLIN BOOKS; ISTOCK

AN OPEN BOOK

TCU MUSIC PREPARATORY DIVISION day and Saturday at 10:30am. After the readings, stick around for the coloring activities, and browse through its bountiful selection of children’s books. Open hours are Monday–Saturday 10am–7pm and Sunday noon–6pm.

Interabang also deserves credit for its robust schedule of in-person author events.

The one must-go event this season for families is Friday, December 8 when Interabang presents Jan Brett, the legendary writer and illustrator of dozens of classic picture books like Gingerbread Baby and The Mitten. She’ll be stopping into First United Methodist Church Grapevine (her only stop in Texas on her Winter Wonderland Tour) and giving a drawing demonstration and signing copies. Tickets are free but required for admission. // Dallas, 214/484-4289; interabangbooks.com

MONKEY & DOG BOOKS

For animal lovers, shop dog Sophie is reason enough to visit this independent bookstore, located on West Seventh Street, not far from the Fort Worth Cultural District. Owner Shelley Lowe actually named the shop after her nicknames for her two now-grown sons.

For special story times and events led by children’s authors as they’re announced, look on the website and social media accounts.

The bookstore frequently hosts author events and several book clubs, most of which are geared toward adult tastes, but the Last Monday Book Club is specifically for middle grade readers in third–fifth grades.

Its cozy seating and easy-to-reach titles and toys for kids make this an especially nice spot for impromptu book browsing.

Monkey & Dog is open Monday–Saturday 10am–5pm, closed Sunday. // Fort Worth, 817/489-5747; monkeyanddogbooks.com

HAVE YOU HEARD?

Yes! Listening to an audiobook does count as reading, and they’re great for building kids’ listening comprehension skills. Want to try out audiobooks, or prefer them for car rides, but also want to support local? Try the audiobook app Libro.fm, which allows you to designate your preferred indie bookstore to receive proceeds from à la carte purchase or subscriptions, which start at $14.99 monthly. libro.fm

From early childhood music to private lessons for older students, the TCU Music Preparatory Division offers a wide variety of instruction. Music Together classes for infants to age 8, private piano, voice, instrumental and string lessons for all levels.

MULTIPLE SPOTS AVAILABLE

• Private Lessons in guitar, flute, harp (minimum age 6 years old) • Private Lessons in violin, viola (minimum age 4 years old) • Private Lessons in voice (minimum age 13 years old) • Private Lessons in piano (limited spots available, minimum age 5 years old) • Computer lab for theory instruction (offered for students enrolled in private lessons)

Contact: musicprep@tcu.edu or 817-257-7604 • Music Together (infant-age 4) • Music Together Rhythm Kids (ages 4-8) • Music Together Generations (infant-age 4)

Contact: earlychildhoodmusic@tcu.edu or 817-257-6134

REGISTER ONLINE AT MUSICPREP.TCU.EDU

SUBSCRIBE The Magazine Parents Live by in DFW DFWChild can now be delivered to your home $24 annually dfwchild.com/subscriptions

DFWCHILD | december 2023/january 2024

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humor / D A D A M O N G S T D U D E S WORDS JOSH FARNSWORTH ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN

for the 34th time in the first week home or accidentally peed on for the first time.

Side note: You will get peed on. Just accept it as your badge of honor. It’s a rite of passage into dadhood. (One of us! One of us!)

You can curb much of the grossness, however, honing your new craft of diaper changing. Take a few objects about the size of a football around the house, grab a stopwatch and time yourself. If you are focused on setting a new personal best, you aren’t as focused on the grossness before you.

FIRST-YEAR DAD SURVIVAL GUIDE

I

T WAS ABOUT 2:35AM and my wife and I sat there silently eating bland turkey and cheese sandwiches. I mean they may have been the most fantastic gourmet concoctions involving bread, but all sense of taste—and reality—seemed lost on us.

Just 44 minutes prior, my first son was born, held by each of us, weighed like a prizefighter and whisked away to give mommy time to rest.

Because my wife claimed to be tired or something. No idea why.

In the silence of our maternity room, eating those sandwiches was the first moment where we could reflect on parenting. Maybe I’ll write a book on this, I thought, nary an hour into my expertise as a dad. Ten years later, the reflection hasn’t stopped.

While no book has yet to hit the presses, I have slowly accumulated little tidbits on what it means to be a parent, and where it all started with that first unforgettable year. And 70

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EMBRACE THE SLEEPLESSNESS It’s a scientific fact that 99 percent of your friends will somehow birth a glorious sleeper who seems to get through the night without much fuss.

You will not be one of them. One hundred percent fact you won’t.

Spend little time cursing the universe for your lack of sleep luck and spend more time doing something fun. For instance, if you have an app on your phone to record audio, set it on while you walk around the room whispering to your child to get them to go to sleep and then you have raw material for your own podcast!

With a little creative sound editing, you may be able to remove the crying in the background and start an ASMR channel as a side hustle to afford all those diapers.

THE BEST TOY FOR YOURSELF Parenting a small child will have its stressful moments. As for that frustration, in honor of my cousin soon becoming a firstget yourself a gaming system of your choice time dad, I’m offering my unsolicited tips for and a fighting/tactical game to play. Redirect surviving the first year of dadding. that tired energy onto killing zombies—and SLEEP NOW, YOU NAIVE FOOL! not onto the little one.

Dads-to-be, if there is one message fellow Stress relief, thy name is Player One. parents are passing down to you I know this first dip into at this point it’s this: get your fatherhood seems daunting, rest now. Sleep. A lot. dads-to-be. Although no two DADS-TOThey are right. Absoluteexperiences are alike, following BE, IF THERE ly right. In fact, why are you some of the recommendations IS ONE reading this column? Quite will, at the very least, give MESSAGE frankly, you should be laying yourself a head start.

FELLOW down and bathing in the luxury You got this. And when the PARENTS that is excess sleep. time comes, take pause and ARE PASSING enjoy that forgettable turkey BECOME A DIAPER NINJA DOWN TO and cheese sandwich.

Lots of adjectives get attached to YOU AT THIS Bon appetit. babies…cute, miraculous. But POINT IT’S one description that many fail to Josh Farnsworth is a nationaluse is…well…gross. In fact, they THIS: GET award-winning parenting columare miraculously gross.

YOUR REST nist who lives with his wife and You will eventually get deNOW. SLEEP. two goofball sons. You can reach sensitized to this fact, especially him for column ideas at josh.

A LOT. when you get burped up on farnsworth@yahoo.com.

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