Houston Family Magazine April 2021

April 2021 | Vol. 33 | Issue 4

get ready for earth day IT’S TIME TO CELEBRATE OUR PLANET

Meditate in your Own Back Yard TIPS FOR CREATING A MEDITATION GARDEN

Live More Freely With Less PURGE THE STUFF FOR A STRESS FREE LIFE

Creative consequences 12 CREATIVE WAYS TO DISCIPLINE YOUR CHILD

+ CAMP DIRECTORY

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Advancing health. Personalizing care.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6 CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

Make every day earth day with these 6 ways to celebrate.

8 CREATE A MEDITATION GARDEN Find your happy place in your own backyard when you create the perfect space for you and your family to meditate the stress away.

13 LIVE WITH LESS AND LIVE MORE

6 8

ON THE COVER

13

FREELY

Abandon all of the "stuff" and find joy, pleasure, and fulfillment in living simply.

14 12 CREATIVE CONSEQUENCES

Disciplining children can be a trial and error task. Don't worry we've got some creative ideas to help you teach them to be more well behaved.

16 AUTISM AWARENESS

April is National Autism Month. A time to shine light on a condition that affects 1 out of 54 children, according to the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network.

18 THE CAMP NEXT DOOR

Try summer camp without the hassle of sending the kids far away. There are tons of day camp options to choose from in the area.

28 A SWEET EASTER TREAT

Get the kids together and make the sweet Bunny Butt Cupcakes to celebrate the Easter Holiday.

34 GALVESTON FROM THE WATER

HFM Kid Ambassador Emily Mize

Get out and explore everything Galveston Island has to offer in and out of the water.

Photo by Be Captured by Christina Location: SweetNes Honey Apiaries, Damon, Texas

20 CAMP DIRECTORY Discover Summer Camps

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

30 I AM HOUSTON

37 KID AMBASSADOR

11 FAMILY FINDS

36 BOOK BITES

38 THE BIG TO-DO

Here's to April, the start of baseball season and a month long celebration of earth.

Our products picks for spring and summer.

Meet Danessa Yaschuk, founder of SweetNes Honey Apiaries

This month we're focused on poetry with these book picks from Bluewillow bookshop.

3 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

Meet this month's HFM Kid Ambassador, Tatum Anderson

Explore all the great things happening in the Greater Houston area.

Letter from the editor

HELLO APRIL

publisher/editor

Kimberly Davis Guerra kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com

associate editor

Chantal Lemieux chantal@houstonfamilymagazine.com

creative director/ production

Casey Johnson casey@houstonfamilymagazine.com

contributing authors Kimberly Blaker Chantal Lemieux Sarah Lyons Sandi Schwartz

contributing photographers

Be Captured by Christina Cici Loo Photography Seal Photography

advertising sales Beverly Davis Tish Petty

printing

Publication Printers Denver, Colorado

contact us:

14123 Bluebird Lane Houston, TX 77079 (P) 713.266.1885 (F) 713.266.1915 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com

ABOVE// Bodhi ready for some baseball

THE BIG TO DO Did you know our online calender is packed with even more great family friendly events? Check it out at houstonfamilymagazine.com.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK @houstonfamilymagazine FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @houstonfamilymagazine

CONTACT US Let us know how we’re doing. kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com

In certain cities, people may celebrate April Fool’s Day on April 1st. However, in Houston, for many of us, it’s baseball season!

My son has been playing baseball since he was in Pre-K. It is a great sport that teaches sportsmanship, team building, great hand eye coordination and overall fitness. We have celebrated many wins and losses over the years and made incredible friendships. Many of the families he played with in the very beginning are still a part of our village today. It truly is one of my favorite times of year.

Not to mention that we celebrate Earth Day this month.

Never was it more appropriate to focus on the health & well-being of our planet. This issue we offer creative ways to celebrate with your kids, ways to live fully with less, to take care of the bees in our own backyard and how to find your inner Zen by building your own meditation garden. All ways to promote self-care, healthy living and have a little fun along the way!

Now that spring is in the air, and the kids are rolling into the last semester before summer break, it’s time to start making summer plans. Did your family recently purchase an RV? Are you hitting the road this summer? Are you back on track for a big family getaway? Or, are you planning on sticking a little closer to home? Maybe a beach is calling your name, but you are not ready to venture too far away…….Galveston could be your solution.

Take a look on our take on Galveston from the water this month to kick up that inspiration!

If getaways aren’t on the agenda this summer, then summer camp will be. Check out our camp directory for great ideas. If you are looking to speak with counselors in person, then head out to our annual Camp Fair on April 11th in Sugar Land. Not our typical location blow-out, but we are very excited about getting together with everyone! It is always a good time and well worth the effort to come out for an hour or so to check out the great options out there for our kiddos!

As we get through the first quarter of 2021, it is still crazy out in the world. Vaccines are flowing and businesses are slowly getting back on their feet. We strongly encourage you to continue to support local whenever you can. It helps out more than you can imagine for the owner's sanity and economic growth!!

Thank you for your continued support. Be safe & be well!

Go Astros!

Houston Family is published monthly by Houston Family Magazine, LLC. Houston Family is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only Houston Family authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all submitted material. We cannot be responsible for the return of any submitted material.

Houston Family is ©2020 by Houston Family Magazine,LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without express permission is prohibited.

4 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

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• Rise Warehouse • YMCA • and more……...

family life | F E AT U R E

6 WAYS TO CELEBRATE

written by Sarah Lyons

6 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

Many families do things to help the Planet Earth on a daily basis.

Recycling is now often offered by waste management services and has become a normal part of our children’s lives. Our generation has grown up knowing the importance of taking care of the environment more than previous generations. This Earth Day, take it one step further and intentionally celebrate the earth with your kids. Here are some ideas:

VISIT A RECYCLING CENTER Check local listings for a recycling center near you. Many have visiting hours where kids can learn what happens to all those cans, bottles, and papers after they go in the recycle bin.

This helps kids understand why we recycle and what recycled goods are used for.

VISIT A WATER TREATMENT PLANT Another fun family field trip is a visit to the local water treatment plant. Workers there teach how our water is treated and why. They also gain a better understanding of the importance of taking care of our water resources and how to protect them.

CREATE A COMPOST A great way to recycle your food waste is to create a compost. This can be on a small or large scale and is an affordable project your family can do together. A simple compost bin can be made out of a plastic tub (be sure

to drill a several holes on the top and bottom for draining).

Fill the container with leaves, grass, weeds, fruit or vegetable scraps, eggshells, and coffee grounds. Turn the bin, shake it, or stir the contents often to begin the compost process.

Use the contents to fertilize your planters or your garden.

Kids will learn how food decomposes and about the benefits of gardening as well.

PLANT A TREE A common way to celebrate Earth Day is to plant a tree.

You could do this in your own backyard or donate one to a local park or common area and plant it there. Also consider planting a garden, flowers, or working in the yard. Try volunteering to help someone who isn’t physically able to clean up their own backyard by raking leaves or taking care of outdoor chores.

SPEND TIME IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

enjoy a walk while taking time to stop and observe the beauty of the world around you. Have the kids collect interesting items from your nature walk and use them to create art when you return home.

ADOPT A STREET Celebrate Earth Day and clean up the environment by picking up trash and debris in your neighborhood. Organize a group to take on a large area such as a busy city street or your favorite park. We can all do our part to keep our hometowns beautiful.

As you celebrate Earth Day, remember that a healthy environment is vital to all of us and our continued prosperity.

It is everyone’s responsibility to keep it clean and maintain it’s beauty for this generation and generations to come.

Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six children, including two year old triplets, living in the midwest.

What better way to celebrate Earth Day than to spend time outside and enjoy nature? Play outside, go on a nature hike, visit a zoo, go to the park, or

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd but your family can celebrate the earth every day by changing these simple behaviors.

• Turn off lights when you leave the house • Recycle • Reuse or re-purpose items • Plant a garden • Pick up trash on your daily walk • Wash only full loads of laundry or dishes • Walk or carpool to your destination • Switch to cloth - use cloth napkins, diapers • Reduce paper products (no more paper plates) • Hang clothes to dry rather than using dryer • Build a birdhouse • Start a bee farm

ping el h to ay w g n lo a es o g rt fo ef a little e? ut ib tr n o c u yo l il w w o H . h rt ea r save ou 7 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

• Switch to reusable water bottles • Conserve water usage

family life | F E AT U R E HOW TO CREATE A

MEDITATION GARDEN

YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY WILL ENJOY

written by Sandi Schwartz

Many of us dream about traveling the world to find the perfect tranquil spot where we can feel relaxed and peaceful. But sometimes, as Dorothy said in the Wizard of Oz, “There’s no place like home.” Instead of spending your life searching for that special locale, why not create it right in your own backyard for your whole family to enjoy?

8 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

Building a meditation garden is the best way to combine the incredible benefits of both nature and mindfulness activities to reduce stress in our lives. This can also be a super fun way for your family to work together outdoors and plan a very special place for you all to relax together. In addition to the general benefits of being outside while working on your meditation garden, your children will also understand the importance of nature in our life, have a chance to get creative, and gain a sense of accomplishment from their hard work.

WHAT IS A MEDITATION GARDEN? The goal of a meditation garden is to provide a quiet, calm place for you to find balance and reduce emotional and physical stress. Although it is only a few steps from your house, it serves as a welcoming retreat to unwind and practice mindfulness.

Being outside surrounded by nature helps us heal. We, as humans, have a nature instinct known as biophilia— an innate bond we share with all creatures and plants in the natural world that we subconsciously seek.

Therefore, spending time in nature reduces our response to stress and allows us to recover from tense situations more quickly. The natural world offers solace and comfort unlike what we find in any manmade environment. In fact, a breakthrough study in 2001 in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that a healing garden at a children’s hospital in California had positive effects on users—about 85 percent reported feeling more relaxed, refreshed, or better able to cope after spending only 5 minutes in the garden.

You can design a garden in your backyard that serves as a sanctuary for your family members. It can turn into the perfect escape from your hectic daily schedule. What a

wonderful place to take the kids after school before they start their homework or run off to a sport or music practice.

They will feel so refreshed after a long, stressful day. And it will sure help us as parents keep our stress (and temper) in check!

ELEMENTS OF A MEDITATION GARDEN Besides being outdoors, meditation gardens typically contain elements that help make it the serene space you desire. A meditation garden should have several components that fill your senses, such as vivid colors, soothing sounds, interesting shapes and textures, comfortable places to sit or lie down, and lovely aromas. The best part is that you can choose the elements that you want for your space based on your personal preferences and goals for the garden.

Here are some of the most common elements found in a meditation garden: G R E E N E R Y. Besides green being a soothing color, greenery can serve as the foundation of your meditation garden. Plants, shrubs, hedges, and trees can be used in a number of ways to create an isolated spot separate from the rest of your backyard. They can serve as a fence, sound or vision barrier, or create an artistic visual interest. If you use native plants, you can even attract wildlife to your sanctuary. Be sure to choose shrubs and trees that are easy to grow and don’t require much garden maintenance.

throughout your space, and even planting an herb or vegetable garden there as well.

Flowers can also bring soothing aromas to your garden, such as aloe, jasmine, rose, chamomile, or lavender.

COLORFUL FLOWERS.

WA T E R .

You will have a blast choosing the beautiful flowers to plant throughout your garden. From tropical to herbal to desert style, the hardest part will be narrowing down all of your options! Look for shapes, lines, patterns, and colors that make you feel calm. Consider including some potted plants

Water is known to give us a sense of peace and serenity.

In fact, medical studies have found less cortisol (the stress hormone) and more serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine (the feel-good hormones) in people as they spend time in, on, or around water. We become so focused on the water that we

9 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

enter a mindful state, which is why adding water elements to your meditation garden is a must-have. The calming sound of running water can mask traffic and other distracting noises. Some ideas for incorporating water into your garden include fish ponds, water bowls, bird baths, a fountain, a garden waterfall, or other trickling water features.

SHADE. It is important to design your garden with some shade so you and your kids stay cool and out of the sun. You can incorporate shade into your garden by adding a canopy, umbrella, pergola, or greenery.

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Although not required, many people prefer to have a place to sit or lie down in their meditation garden. Consider how you plan on spending your time in the garden. If you intend to read a book, then a comfortable meditation bench or meditation chair is a good choice. If you plan to lie down to meditate or take a nap, then consider a hammock or waterproof outdoor sofa. If you plan to stretch or practice yoga, then leave a clear, flat space big enough for a yoga mat or two, depending on how many people will be there.

STONES, PEBBLES, AND SAND. As a contrast to plush elements like grasses, plants, and bushes, these solid materials provide a sense of strength to your meditation garden.

Japanese Zen gardens, also known as Japanese rock gardens, include these simple elements to help soothe and heal us. As we see with mini Zen gardens people use on their office desks, raked sand is calming because it looks like water ripples or waves.

PAV E R S .

Most meditation gardens contain some type of pavers.

You can get as creative as you want by making patterns or spiral paths. Labyrinths made from bricks or stones are popular since walking a labyrinth traditionally represents taking a journey to the inner self.

STATUES AND SCULPTURES. Some people like to include different types of statues or sculptures that have meaning to them. There are many

10 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

possibilities like animals, Buddha images, or small pagodas.

HOW TO CREATE YOUR MEDITATION GARDEN When you first start planning your meditation garden, it might feel overwhelming because the options are endless. Gather your family together and talk about what makes each of you feel at peace and what you plan on doing in that space.

Then go exploring to find examples to model your garden after. Look online for pictures, visit gardens at museums and hotels, notice your neighbors’ gardens more closely, and check out Botanical Gardens in your area. Research different styles of gardens from around the world, such as Japanese Zen, Chinese, Southwestern United States, Traditional English, and Middle Eastern.

Once you have a vision of your serene space, visit your local gardening store to pick out materials or contact a landscaper for guidance. You will want to choose plants that are low maintenance to ensure that your meditation garden doesn’t become a new source of stress. Finally, try your best to use eco-friendly garden products to help protect the environment and your family’s health. You wouldn’t want to ruin your special place by spraying nasty pesticides all over the plants!

Once completed, you can enjoy the incredible moments of peace, tranquility, and family bonding from your own backyard meditation garden.

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues.

You can find her at www. happysciencemom.com.

family finds | T H E G O O D S T U F F CELEBRATE EASTER COLOR MY COOKIE Make it easy on yourself by ordering these pre-made shortbread cookies that come pre-iced with edible watercolors and sprinkles, making them the perfect canvas for your kids’ creativity. The only thing they’ll enjoy more than seeing your cookies come to life as they paint them, is eating them! (Available in holiday themes as well as “generic” themes.)

$35.00 • www.colormycookie.com

STOMP ROCKET THE ORIGINAL MAGNE-DARTS Enjoy this fun classic Dart game with family and friends while exercising your handeye coordination, honing your precision and patience, and practicing your math skills.

$24.99 • www.amazon.com

BUDDHA BOARD Looking for something that will help relax your busy mind and give you a creative break? Check out Buddha Board! This is a screen-free way to be creative and cultivate a healthy state of mindfulness.

The Buddha Board is a blank slate where you simply dip your brush in water and create.

$34.95 • buddhaboard.com

WELL TOLD - INSULATED BOTTLE No more plastic. Stay refreshed and inspired with Well Told’s Map Insulated Hydration Bottle.

It keeps your hot or cold drink at the right temperature down to the last sip.

$34.50 www.welltolddesign.com

NAKIE HAMMOCK The world’s first hammock made of 100% recycled materials. Made from 37 plastic bottles, the Nakie hammock is ultralight, designed to be used by two people. For every product sold, 4 trees are planted.

Great for camping with family and friends.

$101.00 • www.nakie.us

PLAYWIRE-F-K TIE DYE SHOES Features a cushioned footbed and a pre-distressed, unlaced look with elastic inside to keep these on and take these off easily. Everyone will be able to spot that these are Blowfish Malibu Kids with our signature branded eyelets!

$34.99 • www.blowfishshoes.com 11 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

12 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

LIVE WITH

less

& LIVE MORE

freely written by Kimberly Blaker

You’ve likely heard this mantra for years. But living with less is easier said than done. The accumulation of stuff often erodes the joy, pleasure, and fulfillment you could otherwise get out of life. That’s because possessions eat up precious time, energy, and money you could spend on doing the things you love.

If you’re like most, this cycle will persist until you wake up one day, and it suddenly hits you. You no longer have a life – and probably haven’t for some time. Your home and belongings have become your life.

But there is hope. By living with less, you can enjoy more of what brings you true happiness and fulfillment. That may mean going to more concerts, plays, and sporting events.

Or perhaps it’ll free up your time and money to travel, pursue hobbies, get physically fit, volunteer, or spend more time with family and friends.

HOW TO REACH YOUR END-GOAL So how do you reclaim your life? For some, experiencing this awareness is a nobrainer. They come up with a plan and move full steam ahead.

But for most of us, it’s a more arduous process.

We may feel tied to our possessions and be creatures of habit, even when they don’t serve us well. Fortunately, there are ways to ease the transition.

First, create a budget and account for everything you spend on. Don’t forget all the maintenance costs as well. Also, make a list of the amount of time you spend shopping, cleaning, organizing, and maintaining your possessions, including your home. Then add a second column to each list, and note how much time or money you can save by living with less and a smaller home. Also, make a list of what you could do with the extra time and cash that would bring more joy to your life.

Next, set a goal to eliminate a specific number of possessions on a daily or weekly basis. Once you begin purging, if you have

the urge to eliminate more, go for it.

Also, decide the best methods for disposing of your things, so you feel good about it and stay motivated. If you could use the extra cash, box things up for a garage sale, or sell them online. Also, consider rehoming items with family and friends. Donating goods to a particular charity or family in need might even make you feel better about parting with them.

Once you begin purging, work room-by-room so you can keep track of what you’ve already done. This will help you see your progress, and you can experience the feeling of one less room that owns you.

As you sort through your belongings, ask why you’re keeping each item. If you’re storing it ‘just in case,’ haven’t used it in a year or more, wouldn’t buy it now, it doesn’t hold sentimental

13 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

value and doesn’t bring you happiness, get rid of it.

After you’ve gone through your entire home (including yard, shed, and garage), make another round. You’ll likely find many more items you’re now comfortable eliminating.

Finally, once you’ve successfully freed up a ton of space in your home, plan your next step. You may no longer need so much space. Consider a smaller house or apartment to save even more time, energy, and costs. Most importantly, enjoy your newfound freedom and make a conscious effort to live each day to its fullest.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer.

She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.com

family life | F E AT U R E

12 Creative Consequences

for kids

written by Sarah Lyons

Before becoming a parent, the idea of disciplining children seemed fairly straightforward. It follows logic that if you set limits, use consistency, and respond firmly, but lovingly, children will learn to correct their behavior. As I became a more experienced mother, I quickly learned that traditional methods of discipline, such as time out, do not work with every child, every time. Thinking outside of the traditional methods of discipline and trying new and creative consequences may improve behavior. Here are some ideas: BUY IT BACK

TEAM SPIRIT

Toys left on the floor after the designated pickup time will be confiscated by a parent.

Children will be allowed to buy back each item for $1. (www.notconsumed.com) If the children are not earning an allowance, they may do something extra around the house to earn the item back.

Siblings who fight can also be assigned projects or chores to work on as a team. By the end of the day, they will have learned to work together.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT When chores aren’t done to the parent’s standards, have kids “practice” doing it over and over again until they become an expert. (www.imom.com)

SILLY FACES “If siblings were fighting, they had to make five faces at each other. They would end up laughing and forget what they were fighting about to begin with.” says Marianne Lincoln, mother of five.

OPEN DOOR POLICY If your teen slams the bedroom door when angry, take away the privilege of privacy and remove the door for a week.

DONATIONS If your kids consistently leave clothing on the floor, collect it for donation to a local charity.

If they decide they aren’t ready to donate it yet , have them pay you what it would cost them to buy it from a thrift store. (www. parenting.com)

SAFETY FIRST It is not safe to drive when people are shouting and making a commotion in the car.

If the kids are too rowdy, pull the car over and wait silently until they are quiet.

TAKE TIME If you child is dawdling and makes everyone late, have them sit out of the fun when you arrive for the same amount of time they wasted at home.

EARLY TO BED If the child has a bad attitude and you suspect it’s because they are not getting enough sleep, move up bedtime by 5 minutes each time you need to remind them to improve their behavior.

KID’S CHOICE When children misbehave, try allowing them to choose their own consequence. This method gives them control over their fate, teaches them to think about their actions in the

14 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

future, and makes imposing the consequence easier.

STAND ALONE If the child will not stop tipping his chair at dinner, simply take the chair away and have him stand while he eats. (www. notconsumed.com)

TEACH RESPECT “I have a friend that has her children wash the other’s feet if they are being disrespectful to each other.” says Shannon, mom of three.

With some patience, a sense of humor, and some creativity, parents can use the art of creative consequences to teach their children in a fresh and memorable way that will have lasting results.

Originally published in the November 2015 issue of KC Parent

BENEFITS OF NATURAL CONSEQUENCE A natural consequence is something that happens as a result of a certain behavior or choice. Parents can let their children experience natural consequences by not “saving” them from their choices and allowing them to learn from their mistakes. If a teen stays up too late, they will be tired the next day. If a child forgets his sack lunch at home, he will have to eat whatever is on the school menu that day. If a child refuses to wear a coat, they may find they get quite cold on a winter day. Natural consequences help kids take ownership of their actions and can have lasting benefits.

• The consequence is closely tied with behavior because the results follow the action • A natural consequence helps children take responsibilty for their actions • They let children make a choice about their behavior • This style of discipline occurs in a calm environment • It helps children internalize rules and morals we are trying to teach them • It prepares children for adulthood by helping them think about the potential consequences of their choices

15 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

family life | F E AT U R E

AWARENESS MONTH April is National Autism Month. A time to shine light on a condition that affects 1 out of 54 children, according to the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network.

Diagnosis is just the beginning. Where do you go after that?

Our friends at Apara Autism Center suggest five resources to contact to begin navigating the path to life with a child on the spectrum.

1. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE REPRESENTATIVE While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind, your insurance policy will play a critical role in the resources you are able to access for your child. We would highly recommend that you seek out information from your insurance provider on what your policy covers and what your financial responsibility may look like.

Here is a fantastic resource on how to navigate your insurance policy coverage. Due to the

long waitlist, you may also want to sign up for Medicaid Waivers in case you may want to access those services in the future • Texas Depart of Insurance • Autism Speaks – Regulated Health Benefit Plans • Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs

2. RESEARCH THERAPY PROVIDERS Most likely, a variety of different therapies may be recommended for your child.

Even if you are hesitant to immediately begin therapy with your young child, the saying, “the earlier the better” is very true in regard to best possible outcomes for your child! Speak about these concerns with your therapy provider and develop

a plan that you think will be the best fit for you and your child.

See our previous blog post about quality indicators to look for in a therapy provider. Here are some other resource lists to help find the best fit therapy providers for your family • FEAT Houston • CareStarter App

3. ENSURE THERAPY IS EVIDENCE-BASED! Lots of types of therapies are promoted as improving the lives of individuals with autism with extreme claims, but they are just that, claims.

If something sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.

Do your research and due diligence to ensure the claim is merited. Another tip: most

16 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

therapies that are evidencebased will be covered by insurance, whereas those with extreme claims will not be covered and likely very expensive with limited progress occurring or potential harm to your child.

• The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder, Evidence Based Practices • The National Autism Center’s “Parent’s Guide to Evidence-Based Practice Autism”

4. GET INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY OR FIND A SUPPORT GROUP While handling an autism diagnosis can seem very

isolating, there is a vast network of resources to get families involved. Remember, if your child has been diagnosed with autism, you are not in this alone! The resources in your area may span from support groups to respite care for your child and everything in between.

• Meetup – Houston Autism Resources and Support • Family to Family Network – Parent Resources • Easter Seals Houston – Community Resources • The ARC of Greater Houston’s Resource Guide for Special Needs

5. SOCIAL GROUPS OR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

engage in an extracurricular activities or social opportunity to give them a chance to just be kids. Most of them will spend a considerable amount of time in school or therapy, and can benefit from having a “break” that can still create beneficial learning opportunities for them.

• Social Motion Skills • Texas Children’s Hospital – Social Skills Classes • Hope For Three – Resources (See – Sports & Recreation) Apara Autism Center - Three locations to serve you in Memorial, Katy & Sugar Land. www.aparaautism.com

We truly believe it is important for your child to be well rounded and find time to

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Behavioral and Educational Support

6914 Brisbane Court, Suite 201 Sugar Land, Texas, 77479

School Consultation

Accepting most Insurance Plans

17 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

• Cigna • Community Health Choice

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL US AT: 844-272-7223 WEBSITE: AparaAutism.com EMAIL: info@aparaautism.com

p m a c e h t r o o d t x n e y ca mp-

family life | F E AT U R E

y a d -

written by Sarah Lyons

Many parents want their kids to experience summer camps but the idea of spending several nights away from home is a little scary for both the parent and child. A great alternative, especially for younger kids, is to send them to day camp. Day camp, as the name implies, typically consists of a series of consecutive days where the child is away during the daytime hours. Children leave in the morning to have the camp experience and come home in the afternoon or evening to have dinner with their families and sleep in their own beds. Day camp gives kids many of the same learning experiences as a typical sleepover camp.

BUILDS INDEPENDENCE Camp is a great place for kids to explore their own independence and day camp is no different. Kids are dropped off at camp in the morning where they are challenged with new activities that they may not get the opportunity to try at home. They will make friends, eat lunch, and follow directions without the help of their parents. Kids start to feel more self confident and independent as the week goes on.

LEARN NEW SKILLS Day camps typically offer opportunities to learn and grow in areas that children may not be exposed to at school. Kids can pick camps that tailor to their interest including a variety of sports, music, dance, theater, science, art, exploring nature, and more. If your child is drawn to a particular activity or subject, chances are there is a

camp that would interest them.

Kids who are not particularly drawn to academics will thrive in day camps because they are rewarded for their talents and interests.

MAKE NEW FRIENDS While you may sign your child up for a camp with a friend, they will meet many new people their age. Children gain confidence as they learn to talk to and work with people that they have never played with previously. The opportunity to make friends with children that share similar interests and a fun new experience helps kids feel more comfortable when they are in new situations.

TAKE A BREAK FROM THE SCREEN When children spend time at day camp, they get a much needed break from screen time. As video games, apps,

TV, and tablets take more and more of our free time, getting the kids outside to play or having fun while learning new skills is a priceless benefit to parents. Who knows? When the kids come home from camp, they may realize they don’t need as much screen time as they thought they did.

LIFELONG SKILLS Day camp helps kids learn skills they can use for a lifetime including problem solving and leadership skills, improved confidence, and an openness to new things. Depending on the camp, they may learn other skills that will stick with them. My kids learned how to start a fire and cook their own meal at local scouting camps. My daughter gained the confidence to get on stage in front of a room full of parents and peers at theater camp.

My kids improved their skills

18 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

at sport camps and they faced their fears while trying the camp obstacle course. These experiences will stay with your child throughout their life as they are faced with challenges and successes in the future.

As you are deciding if day camp is right for your family, consider what type of camp your child would be most interested in. Choose something that you know they will be successful at and consider inviting a friend to sign up with your child. This can make them more comfortable that first day. Let your child help you choose the right camp and then let them know you think they will do great.

Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six children, including two year old triplets, living in the midwest.

CHECK OUT OUR CAMP DIRECTORY FOR FUN DAY CAMPS NEAR YOU!!

19 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

S P E C I A L S E C T I O N | C A M P D I R E C T O RY

ADVENTURE KIDS PLAYCARE

ALLIANCE FENCING ACADEMY

EXPLORE ASIA CULTURE CAMPS

adventurekidsplaycare.com/camps

alliance-fencing-academy.com

Katy 281.769.2398 Memorial City 713.838.1414 Sugar Land 832.886.4153 The Woodlands 936.271.2259 Woodforest 936.209.2212

713.410.6655 Houston & Conroe

asi.as/camps 713.496.9901 Houston, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Sports, Day Camp

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp

AGES: 5-14

AGES: 6-17

AGES: 3-12 Flexibility for your family, FUN for your kids! Drop-in for an hour or stay all day. We have an option to meet every family’s needs this summer.

9AM-4PM, before and after care available.

Alliance Fencing Academy’s summer and winter fencing camps are an opportunity for your child to have fun exploring one of the original and foundational sports of the modern Olympic games while picking up technical and competitive skills that will last them a lifetime.

Week-long, hands-on camps delving into Asian traditions, art, and culture.

Make your own movie, design comics for the web, learn about animals and fantastic beasts of Asia, and more!

BUILDING BRAINS LEGO ENGINEERING

CAMP ALLEN

CAMP CHAMPIONS

campallen.org

www.campchampions.com

BuildingBrains.Biz

936.825.7175 Navasota, TX

830.598.2571 Marble Falls, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight Camp

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight

AGES: 8-18

AGES: 5-17

Camp Allen provides a fun & unique environment for young people to cultivate friendships, experience personal growth, and learn about the unconditional love of Jesus Christ. Located 1 hour from Houston, Camp Allen’s core values are Spiritual Growth, Positive Identity, Safety, and FUN!

Camp Champions has created a tradition of excellence since 1967.

With the facility and staff expected from a top overnight summer camp, Champions is distinguished by its focus on building strong kids.

One, two, and three-week sessions available for ages 5-17.

713.204.0770 10 Locations Around Houston TYPE OF CAMP: Full Day, Half Day AGES: 3-5 and 6-12 LEGO I: campers will learn math and science by building simple machines with lego and K’Nex. Fun themes like circus fun, and transportation.

LEGO II : Campers will build working machines and MOTORIZE and PROGRAM them for Motion, Sound, and Lights. STEM PROGRAMS

C A M P D I R E C T O RY | S P E C I A L S E C T I O N

CAMP INVENTION

CAMP LANTERN CREEK

www.invent.org/save

www.camplanterncreek.com

800.968.4332 Multiple Locations Across Greater Houston Area

936.597.8225 Montgomery, TX TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight, All Girl

TYPE OF CAMP: Academic AGES: Grades K-6 Camp Invention® is the nationally acclaimed, nonprofit summer enrichment program created by the National Inventors Hall of Fame® (NIHF) for kindergarteners through 6th graders.

AGES: 7-17 Tucked away on 100 acres in the piney woods of Montgomery, Texas, Camp Lantern Creek is a unique all girls sleep away summer camp that was created so girls can find their voice, try new skills, be cheered on whether they succeed or fail, get dirty, push boundaries, love nature and so much more!

CHRISTIAN YOUTH THEATER HOUSTON cythouston.org/camps 281.580.4298 Houston, TX TYPE OF CAMP: Theater Camp AGES: 5-18 Come join us Under the Sea this Summer for a fun,creative, theater arts camp! At the two week long Summer Stock camp for ages 8-18, students will be learning and performing a full Junior musical, The Little Mermaid Jr. complete with costumes, sets, and choreography culminating in 2 performances. In the weeklong Under the Sea Day Camp for ages 5-12, students will be learning the basic building blocks for Theater Arts performances including singing, acting, and dancing culminating in a showcase for parents and friends. If your child loves to perform, this camp is for you!!

Learn from the best.

Ages 7-18. Our virtual tech camps are now available! With the hottest STEM course lineup, small class sizes, and live iD Tech-Certified rockstar instructors, your child will sharpen their tech skills and have a blast learning with new friends!

MINECRAFT

Get started at: iDTech.com Courses are selling out fast! Sign up today.

use code HOUSTON60 (Virtual Tech Camps & Academies only)

S P E C I A L S E C T I O N | C A M P D I R E C T O RY

COOKING WITH A TWIST cookingwithatwisthouston.com 713.574.9371 Stafford, TX TYPE OF CAMP: Kids Cooking Camp AGES: 7-16 One week of culinary learning & fun!

Our Kids Summer Camp is designed for kids ages 7-16 who are passionate about cooking and creating culinary masterpieces. We provide a fun, safe & top-notch Cooking Camp led by Chef DeeDee Coleman & other first class instructors. Your kid will learn culinary skills including a multitude of fun & exciting recipes! Register your kid today. Limited space available.

CORDOVAN ART SCHOOL & YOUNG ARTIST ART STUDIO cordovanartschool.com 281.645.6580 The Woodlands, TX TYPE OF CAMP: Art Camp AGES: 5-16 Cordovan Art School is teaming up with Young Artist Art Studio for the BEST creative Spring & Summer Art Camps ever! 10,000 kids & teens have joined Cordovan camps over the past 11 years! Family owned, Over 40 camps to choose from, Ages 5-16, All skill levels, Extended care.

22 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

HMNS SUMMER CAMP hmns.org/education/summer-camp/ 713.639.4651 Houston, TX & Sugar Land, TX TYPE OF CAMP: Academic, Technology AGES: 6-12 From robots and rocket science to mummies and spying, students can participate in a variety of week-long camps at the Houston Museum of Natural Science!

C A M P D I R E C T O RY | S P E C I A L S E C T I O N

HOUSTON SPCA

ID TECH

IDEA LAB

houstonspca.org

www.iDTech.com

www.aliana.idealabkids.com

education@houstonspca.org Houston, TX

1.888.709.8324

832.490.3557 Richmond, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Adventure, Academic AGES: 3rd-8th grade Get Ready for Some Off-the-Leash Fun! Summer Critter Camp at the Houston SPCA is back and will be held in-person from June 7 – August 13, 2021. There is a variety of 10 week-long day sessions for Campers entering 3rd – 8th grade. Summer waits for no one, and your kids deserve it. So register today!

TYPE OF CAMP: Technology, STEM AGES: 7-18 iD Tech is the world’s premier destination for STEM education, with online programs that sharpen students’ coding, game dev, and creative skills, all from the comfort of home. Choose from Virtual Tech Camps, Online Private Lessons, or small-group Semesters. Guided by elite rockstar instructors, your child will have fun, unlock tech brilliance, and join a community of 500,000 aspiring innovators.

TYPE OF CAMP: STEAM Camps : Science / Arts / Culinary / Technology/Coding & Programming/Robotics AGES: 5-12 We encompass all the aspects of Science/Technology/Engineering/ Arts and Mathematics into a powerhouse of diverse curriculum with hands-on experiences.This summer forget boredom and your same old activities!!

SUMMER 2021 IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING

FOR KIDS AGES 6–12

To register or for more information, visit hmns.org.

23 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

S P E C I A L S E C T I O N | C A M P D I R E C T O RY

KANAKUK KAMPS www.kanakuk.com 417.266.3000 Branson, Missouri TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight Camp AGES: 6-18 Kanakuk is a premier summer camp experience for boys and girls with locations in Branson and Lampe, Missouri. It’s 5 overnight camps provide children and teens with fun, safe and age-appropriate outdoor camping experiences that develop them spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially. Sessions run from May 29 to August 6 with 1, 2 and 4-week options.

KIDVENTURE DAY CAMP

KIDVENTURE OVERNIGHT CAMP

kidventure.com

kidventure.com

713.960.8989 Houston, TX

512.263.8992 Hunt, TX & Rocksprings, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight Camp

AGES: 1st-5th Grade & 6th-9th grade

AGES: 8-13 & 13-16

Kidventure will offer over 16 Camp programs across the Houston area.

Each Houston Day Camp program provides each age group with its custom curriculum, unique camp activities, and dedicated adult camp team designed to bring out the very best camp experience for every child.

Kidventure Overnight Camp has been an experience like none other.

Now, more than ever, our kids need camp. The opportunity to rebuild relationships, gain confidence, and dream big has never meant more.

Join Kidventure for the summer of 2021 and be part of an adventure that will last a lifetime.

YMCA-0095 HFM 2021_CampFair_PrintAd_mech.pdf

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C A M P D I R E C T O RY | S P E C I A L S E C T I O N

LANGUAGE KIDS WORLD

LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM

THE PARISH SCHOOL

www.languagekids.com

lonestarflight.org/learn/camps/

281.565.1388 Greater Houston Area

346.708.2517 Houston, TX

713.467.4696 Houston, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Academic Camp

TYPE OF CAMP: Technology Camp

AGES: 3-5 & 6-12

AGES: 11-14

Learning another language has never been so much fun! Spanish immersion in-person camps, and virtual camps in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, French, German, ESL and Sign Language, as well as our brand new “Build your own camp” ™ program, in which we bring our amazing camps to your home!

Spring Break Camp and Merit Badge Workshops at LSFM – JUST PLANE FUN! For Scouts 11-17. New American Heritage and Electronics merit badges available plus the Aviation merit badge. And don’t forget the Pilot Maker camp for kids 10-13. Visit LoneStarFlight.org for details.

Join us for an action-packed, faith-filled week of summer camp! Located on 1,100 forested acres one hour north west of Houston, Camp Allen provides affordable, over night camping experiences for ages 8-18.

campallen.org

936.825.7175

www.parishschool.org/summer

TYPE OF CAMP: Day and Overnight Camp Options AGES: 2-17 (ages vary by program) The Parish School educates children who have communication delays and learning differences, empowering them with the tools to succeed.

Through a variety of summer programs, campers build self-esteem while developing communication, social and handwriting skills in a safe, nurturing environment.

S P E C I A L S E C T I O N | C A M P D I R E C T O RY

RISE AT THE WAREHOUSE

SCHOOL OF ROCK

TEXAS ROCK GYM

www.schoolofrock.com

texasrockgym.com

risewarehouse.com/camp

Clear Lake 281.218.7625 Sugar Land 832.939.8788 Champion Forest 281.246.4475

713.715.7473 Houston, TX

713.973.7625 Houston, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp, Rock Climbing

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp

TYPE OF CAMP: Music, Day Camp

AGES: 5-12

AGES: 5-18

RISE offers a one-of-a-kind weeklong day camp featuring gymnastics, dance, music, and ninja: 4 camps in 1! Each day our campers cycle through these 4 disciplines, keeping them engaged and active for the whole week.

Our camp is open to ages 5-12 and runs 9am-3pm; extended care is also available!

Throughout the year, School of Rock offers music camps and workshops perfect for musicians of all skill levels who play guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, ukulele, and vocals. Call today, or sign up on our website!

Rock on!

YMCA CAMP CULLEN

YMCA DAY CAMP

YORKSHIRE ACADEMY

www.ymcacampcullen.org

ymcahouston.org/summer-camp

936.594.2274 Trinity, TX

Greater Houston Area

281.531.6088 Houston, TX

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight, Adventure AGES: 5-17 Nestled among the tall pines along the shores of Lake Livingston lies one of Texas’s premier camps.

Campers take part in choice-based activities in a safe, fun and supportive environment.

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp AGES: 5-15 Offered at locations around the Houston area, our camps place special emphasis on youth choice, achievement and a sense of belonging. Activities may include sports and outdoor games, creative and performing arts, archery, engineering and nature exploration.

AGES: 7-17 Texas Rock Gym has been offering Climbing Day Camps to Houston youth for over 15 years. Our camps are well structured, run by experienced counselors, and most of all…fun!

www.yorkshireacademy.com

TYPE OF CAMP: Academic, Art/Theatre, Technology AGES: 24 months - 6th grade Yorkshire Academy’s Summer Program offers a wide array of camp options for 24 months–6th grade.

Ex.: Academics, 50 enrichment camps- such as cricket, yoga, robotics, art, Spanish, and themed camps - half day, full day, or full time care.

C A M P D I R E C T O RY | S P E C I A L S E C T I O N

June 7 – August 13 www.houstonspca.org un Summer F e!

Starts Her

Don't just grow.

Thrive!

Now enrolling for the 2021N22 school year!

Educating children ages 2–12 who have communication delays and learning differences, empowering them with the tools to succeed.

Currently Registering for the 21/22 School Year

• Small, 1:5 faculty/student ratios • Highly qualified, master’s-level educators • Beautiful, 17-acre campus • Nationally accredited independent school • Serving greater Houston since 1983 • Financial assistance available

The Carruth Center at the parish school

Featuring an on-site pediatric therapy clinic, The Carruth Center, open to Parish students and the community.

Speech-Language Therapy | Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy | Music Therapy | Social Thinking® Mental Health Services | Developmental Testing

11001 Hammerly Blvd., Houston, TX 77043 www.parishschool.org • www.carruthcenter.org 713.467.4696

family food | E D I T O R I A L

28 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

A Sweet Easter Treat Bunny Butt Cupcakes Recipe courtesy of Amanda Rettke of “I am baker”

Prep time: 45 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 24

1

2-layer size white cake mix

1

tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, Pure Lemon Extract, divided

1

tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract

3/4 2 16 2 10 1-2 12 3

cup white chocolate chips sticks butter, softened ounces confectioners’ sugar tablespoons milk drops Green Food Color drops Red Food Color large marshmallows, halved crosswise tablespoons white ball sprinkles

TO MAKE CAKE

TO MAKE FROSTING

TO ASSEMBLE CUPCAKES

Prepare cake mix as directed on package, adding 1 tablespoon lemon extract and vanilla. Spoon 3 tablespoons batter into 24 paper-lined muffin cups. Bake as directed on package for cupcakes. Cool cupcakes on wire rack.

In large bowl, beat butter and remaining lemon extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating well after each addition and scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Add milk; beat until light and fluffy. Remove half the frosting and place in medium bowl. Add green food color; mix until evenly blended. Spoon into pastry bag fitted with grass decorating tip. Set aside.

Remove half the remaining frosting into small bowl.

Add red food color; mix until light pink. Spoon into another pastry bag.

Pipe green frosting onto each cupcake in series of short motions to create individual grass spots.

Cover top of each cupcake completely.

Using pink frosting, pipe three toes and padding on each bunny foot. Once frosting has set (about 1 hour) gently press down on pink frosting to create smoother look.

Place both bunny feet against base of marshmallow with toes facing down.

TO MAKE BUNNY FEET

In medium, microwavesafe bowl, microwave white chocolate chips on high 30 seconds. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Spoon into pastry bag or re-sealable plastic bag. Snip small corner from bag. Pipe 24 pairs of bunny feet onto parchment or wax paper-lined cookie sheet.

Use toothpick to smooth out bumps or rough edges, and gently tap cookie sheet on counter to help settle.

Allow to harden 2 minutes in freezer or 15 minutes in refrigerator.

TO MAKE BUNNY BUTTS

Place cut sides of marshmallow halves onto each frosted cupcake, leaving room for bunny feet. Shape remaining white frosting into dime-sized balls then roll with white sprinkles to cover. Pipe small drop of remaining pink or white frosting onto top of each marshmallow.

Press bunny tail on top.

Tip: Looking for a more fuzzy butt for your bunnies, try dipping your marshmallows in white chocolate and rolling in coconut.

Check out the full video online at https://iambaker.net/bunny-butt-cupcakes/

29 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

i am houston | E D I T O R I A L — I AM HOUSTON —

Danessa ‘Nes’ Yaschuk Founder of SweetNes Honey Apiaries photography by Be Captured by Christina | instagram @be_captured_by_christina

DANESSA AND BRENT YASCHUK

Beekeeping is dirty work but yields sweet rewards 30 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

We were recently given the opportunity to meet with husband and wife duo Brent and Danessa ‘Nes’ Yaschuk of SweetNes Honey Apiaries and explore their beekeeping and honey producton operation located in Damon, Texas. It was an amazing and educational experience for the kids who were able to participate. SweetNes Honey Apiaries owner Nes grew up in Houston and started a beekeeping business to save the bees and to educate the next generations on the importance the honeybees and other pollinators have on our ecosystem.

How It All BEEgan: My fascination with bees began when I was eight years old.

Our home in Houston, Texas, had a Wax Leaf Ligustrum shrub right outside our kitchen window. Every spring it would be buzzing with honeybees and other mesmerizing pollinators.

I could spend hours watching them, and I soon discovered a passion for catching and releasing bees. I would use Ziplock bags to catch the bees and pop them into large plastic coke bottles (dry of course) with holes poked in them.

I would keep count of how many I could get. Through my youthful scientific observations, I learned they were collecting the pollen from the flowers and storing it on their legs. My curiosity often resulted in my mom telling me to stop playing with the bees after doctoring up my many stings. Yet every time I would run back out to catch more. My friends would sit far away on the sidewalk to watch. I don’t know why they never wanted to catch bees with me?! By then, all of my friends and family referred to me as “Nes” or “Nessa” and I remember joking that if I ever owned a boat, I would name it SweetNes. The year was 1988 and I had never really heard much about beekeeping or beekeepers, nor did I really understand what they did.

Never could I have imagined how the name SweetNes would come into play in the future!

Fast forward many years later, after school, college and many different jobs, I met my future husband Brent.

We married and eventually moved to the suburbs of

Sienna, in Missouri City, where we expanded our family with two super cute little boys and a dog named Sketch. I was working as an office manager and although I liked my job, it was not my passion. I hated being stuck indoors behind a computer screen on beautiful days. One evening while sitting in bed working on my laptop, I sat up and blurted out to Brent, “You know what I really want to do? I want to be a beekeeper!”

Total silence. Then he looked at me like I had grown a third eye.

He thought I was crazy.

The BEEquel: I started studying everything I could find about bees and beekeeping. I followed beekeepers on social media, collected books and joined all the local bee clubs I could find. I attended the Fort Bend Beekeepers Association and convinced a senior beekeeper to mentor me. He reluctantly did so. He was a grumpy guy, but I ran full speed ahead and caught my first swarm of bees in my own backyard! I was officially a beekeeper!

By the end of the week, I had two, and by the end of the month I had six hives. I partnered up with another hobbyist beekeeper and we started providing bee removal services to our community. We did professional cutouts and repairs to safely remove the bees. Doing this resulted in our apiary growing rapidly. We continued doing bee removal for a few years. Meanwhile, Brent and I started a farmer’s market in our community and sold honey there as well.

I bought a large block of

beeswax from my mentor and started teaching myself how to make candles and other beeswax products.

My beautiful candles smelled amazing so I decided to create an Etsy shop to see if they would sell. I had to come up with a name for my shop and I already knew that SweetNes would be a part of it. SweetNes Honey Apiaries & Beetique was born in 2015.

Challenges Come With Opportunity: Our apiary was located on someone else’s property.

Unfortunately, their property completely flooded during Hurricane Harvey and we lost

31 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

over half of our bees. We decided to take the plunge and move to an acreage in Damon, Texas where we could rebuild and grow the business.

We quickly built up our apiary and then some. I became the Vice President at the Fort Bend Beekeepers Association going on two years now. One of our members announced that they were retiring and selling off their entire honey business.

My husband, being the entrepreneur that he is, jumped at the opportunity, and the next thing I know ‘HE’ is buying the business! Who is crazy now!? We went from 50 hives to 150. Never in a million years did I, or Brent, think that HE would become a beekeeper!

SweetNes Honey Apiaries & Beetique “A little something to make life sweeter!” online: www.sweetneshoney.com | instagram @sweetnes_honey_apiaries | facebook @SweetNesHoneyBeetique

32 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

HA! When I first started beekeeping, he got involved with the business side of it, but definitely not the bee side of it. Today he is elbow deep in bees with me and loves selling honey on the side of the road.

We make a pretty good team overall. He is the analytical ‘big picture’ and numbers guy, while I am more creative, detail oriented and ‘it’s the small things that matter’ person. We harmoniously balance each other out.

Unique Selling Points: Here at SweetNes Honey Apiaries & Beetique we take pride in offering an array of allnatural high-quality products straight from our beehive. Pure raw unfiltered wildflower, clover, Tallow and Huajilla honey to name a few, creamed honey in an assortment of flavors, organically infused honey, honey sticks, fresh cut comb, pollen, natural beeswax in bulk, beeswax candles, balms and many other bee-made and bee-themed items. We do all of our own beekeeping and honey production. We are a family owned and operated

Honey Farm, Honeybee Rescue and Beetique.

Our Products: Our sweet products can be found on our website at www. sweetneshoney.com or on Etsy at SweetNes Honey Beetique.

We do doorstep deliveries ourselves to local places. If you are further away, we will promptly ship it to you. You can also find our products in many retail locations as well: Jr’s Texas Best Smokehouse, Needville Feed & Supply, Select HEBs, Novak’s Meat Market, Prasek’s Hillje Smokehouse, Hinze’s Country Kitchen, Silver Sycamore, Home Studio 6, Wharton Feed & Supply, and more. You can also catch us from time to time at local farmers markets, Blessington Farms as well as Dewberry Farm. We love getting out and mingling with people and letting everyone try our products. If you ever have any questions about a specific product, where it’s available or just want to chat, give us a buzz at: hihoney@ sweetneshoney.com.

Bee Inspired Books

Bee-A-Keeper Tours:

Our Aspirations:

Have you ever wondered how honey is made? How bees work together inside their beehives? Or what exactly a beekeeper does? Well now you can experience just that!

SweetNes Honey Apiaries & Beetique offers ‘Bee-a-Keeper Tour’ where you can explore all things bees! From bees and beekeeping to hive tools and honey – we will show you in detail what we do. You will be able to don a beekeeping suit, light a smoker and look deep inside an active beehive.

You are free to take as many pictures and silly selfies with the honeybees as you like!

People of all ages are welcome to come and tour our Honey House, where we process our honey, stroll the apiary here on site and learn about bees. We also have some adorable other furry friends roaming around waiting to be loved. Whether you are interested in becoming a beekeeper, or you just to want to fulfill an item off your bucket list, we are here to help!

Our passion for bees goes much further than just harvesting that beautiful golden honey. We offer honeybee educational presentations to schools, boy and girl scout troops, small groups, networking events, environmental day events, corporate business events, families and even parties. We bring in an observation hive with live honeybees at work so that adults and children alike can take a peek inside the honeybee hive to see what the bees are up to. We bring items they can see, smell and touch, such as beekeeping equipment, products from the hive and even some honey sticks to take home. We want to teach as well as inspire creativity and a love for nature.

We strive to bring awareness for our buzzy, fuzzy friends, the pollinators, and how important they are to our food supply and overall ecosystem.

Beekeeping for Beginners: How to raise your first bee colonies

by Amber Bradshaw

Wouldn’t it be great to raise your own bees, have a fresh supply of honey, and bring thousands of healthy pollinators into your yard?

Llearn the fundamentals of modern beekeeping.

You (and your bees) will be buzzing with delight.

Give Bees A Chance

by Bethany Barton

Learn how extra special and important bees are to the world and humankind!

They make yummy honey and help plants grow fruits and vegetables.

Bee Fearless

by Mikaila Ulmer Stung by a bee at four, Mikaila was encouraged to learn more about bees so she wouldn’t be afraid. She discovered bees are endangered, and so she set out to save them.

33 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

family life | F E AT U R E

GA LV E ST O N N from the water written by Chantal Lemieux | Photos courtsey of Galveston Tourism

There is a plethora of ways to watch all life on the water and enjoy the stunning scenery that surrounds it. Whatever options you prefer, just the fact that you’re alone or with friends and family offers some of the best sightseeing angles and people watching (the water is always bustling with activity on a nice day) that Galveston has to offer. Soak up spectacular views of the sun and sunsets as it displays an array of colors dancing on the water’s surface. Get to the coastline and explore Galveston from the water!

BEACH With 32 miles of shoreline Galveston Island offers something for every kind of beachgoer. Any beach you decide on will surely give you the repose or adventure you are looking for.

SURF THE COAST The dirty little secret is that Galveston can get some pretty fair surf so why not grab a board and surf a wave? If you’re a beginner, check out Ohana Surf and Skate or C-Sick Surfin’.

Surfing is for all ages.

POWER RIDE OR GLIDE ON A KAYAK For a laid-back exploration, plan a Galveston kayak tour.

There are several companies that offer single and tandem kayak tours. Enjoy the sunset on the water and bring your favorite beverage to toast the end of another beautiful island day. Check out www. beachtowntours.com/kayaktours or choose a cruise and

relax while you coast around Galveston Bay. If you prefer to power your exploration, there are also several jet boat rentals available for your perfect island day. Visit www. galvestonwateradventures. com.

JUMP OUT OF THE WATER Probably one of the most popular boat tours is to watch the dolphins splash and play.

Head over to Pier 21 to select your time and boat. While you are there, stop and visit the Texas Seaport Museum and the tall ship Elissa. The ship was built in 1877 and is considered one of the finest restored historical vessels in the US. If you want to see more, drive over to nearby Seawolf Park for a peek at a WWII-era US Navy submarine and the USS Stewart, a destroyer from the same period.

CATCH OF THE DAY Galveston’s location makes it a top spot for fishing, which ranks among the most popular Galveston water activities so why not fish with a local expert?

The area has several companies that offer fishing excursions, listed below are 3 that you may consider.

Angler Charters caters to groups. All trips can be customized with catering, beverages, time extensions and sail time, providing the perfect adventure.

Captain Cody offers bay and offshore fishing charters that specializes in catching

large fish close to shore but will take visitors as far out as 70 miles.

Reel Men Fishing Charters offers options and gear for a day reeling in the fun as well as sunset and bay cruises.

FOR THE NATURALIST If you are a nature enthusiast, head to Galveston Island State Park, where you can go walking along the boardwalks, kayaking through the bayou, and bird-watching on the bay side. The beach side area of the park (south of FM 3005) is closed to all visitation until 2022 due to renovations.

There are a number of trails and boardwalks over dunes and marshes as well as observation platforms. You can swim, fish, picnic, bird watch, hike, mountain bike, paddle, camp, geocache with the kids, study nature or just relax! The park also does a good job of presenting family activities on a regular basis, so be sure to check the calendar and visit the nature center to learn more about the park and its programs.

PADDLE YOUR HEART OUT Explore the State Park by Paddle. There is a plethora

35 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

of paddling trails to choose from. https://tpwd.texas.gov/ fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/ coastal/galveston/

The Galveston State Park does not rent canoes or kayaks however, there are a few options for rentals and shuttles: Staff and Friends of Galveston Island State Park has supplies on a first come first serve basis as well as trained kayak guides who can accommodate groups of up to 15 people for scheduled kayak tours.

Artist Boat has certified kayak instructors who can lead you to great water explorations.

Austin Canoe and Kayak rents out kayaks, canoes and standup paddle boards by the day. www.austinkayak.com REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) rents kayaks, canoes, paddles and PFDs (personal flotation devices).

Visit your nearest REI co-op to see what’s available closest to you. www.rei.com If you still need more reasons to get excited to explore Galveston Bay from the water, check out the wide range of resources for a virtual activities to build up momentum www. galvestonnaturetourism. org/virtualactivities. Get to

the coastline and explore Galveston from the water!

book bites | G O O D R E A D S

BOOKS TO MOVE AND INSPIRE YOU This month it’s all about POETRY! Valerie Koehler, owner of the Blue Willow Bookshops, shares some of her favorite poetry books. Visit BlueWillowBookshops.com Blooming Beneath The Sun

by Christina Rossetti

Classic nursery rhymes by 19thcentury poet Rossetti have embodied the simple essence of childhood for generations, and Ashley Bryan brings new life to them in this wonderfully illustrated selection.

Everything Comes Next

by Naomi Shihab Nye

Here are Naomi Shihab Nye’s most beloved poems, including “Famous,” “A Valentine for Ernest Mann,” “Kindness,” and “Gate A-4,” as well as new, unpublished poems.

I Am Loved

by Nikki Giovanni Newbery Honoree Ashley Bryan adds a visual layering to a dozen poems by National Book Award winner Giovanni that drum home the most important message: “You are loved.”

I’m Just No Good At Rhyming And Other Nonsense For Mischievous Kids And Immature Adults

by Chris Harris

This hilarious debut molds wit and wordplay, nonsense and oxymoron, and visual and verbal sleight-ofhand in masterful ways that make you look at the world in a whole new wonderfully upside-down way.

Long Way Down

by Jason Reynolds

In this novel written in verse for teens, fifteen-year-old Will sets out to avenge his brother Shawn’s fatal shooting and is counseled on his elevator ride by seven ghosts who knew Shawn.

No More Poems

by Rhett Miller

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Miller teams up with Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat in this collection of irreverent poems full of clever wordplay and bright visual gags.

Poet X

by Elizabeth Acevedo A young girl in Harlem discovers slam poetry as a way to understand her mother’s religion and her own relationship to the world in this debut novel by renowned slam poet Acevedo.

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GET TO KNOW OUR FAVORITE KID STAFF MEMBERS

Kid Ambassadors

Get to know

Tatum Anderson 1

I love all genres of dance! My current faves are jazz and contemporary.

2

I love making and watching Tik-Tok videos.

3

I’m a twin. Grayson, my twin brother, is one minute older than I am. He likes to remind me that he’s older.

4

If I could only eat one type of meal for the rest of my life, it would be TACOS!

5

I want to own my own dance studio when I’m older or perform on Broadway.

6

I have three dogs. Charli, our miniature Schnauzer, is my favorite!

37 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S

the big to do

Photo by Seal Photography FB @sealphotos Insta @cristinasealphotography www.sealphotography.com

Bask in spring sunshine at outdoor events in April in Houston, join earth day and arbor day celebrations, catch a glimpse of the Easter bunny and enjoy Easter activities.Don’t forget to sign up for our enews and check out online calendar at houstonfamilymagazine.com.

All events listed are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Don’t forget to check out our online calendar at www.houstonfamilymagazine.com/event-directory/ for even more family friendly activities.

APRIL 1 Throwback Thursday - Roller Skating Skate to songs from decades past curated by DJ Mohawk Steve. discoverygreen.com Discovery Green 7-9pm. All ages

Visit the Easter Bunny (Until April 3) Come visit him at his new home located in the main corridor between Zara and Forever 21. memorialcity.com Memorial City Mall 11am-7pm. All ages

Spring Discovery Days (every day until April 30)

Cistern History Tours (free every Thursday)

Explore activities for all ages, from an animal art safari to a flower hunt, origami station, photo challenge, and beyond in these amazing self-guided tours. mfah.org/visit/bayou-bend-collectionand-gardens/education-programsbayou-bend

Learn about the architecture of this unique space and the history of Houston’s water system during a guided 30-minute tour. buffalobayou.org

Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens All day. All ages

Virtual Blue Willow Bookshop Story Time Enjoy Blue Willow’s virtual storytime, songs and an art activity every Thursday. bluewillowbookshop.com Blue Willow Bookshop 10am. Age: Toddlers and preschoolers

Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, 105 Sabine St 10am-5pm. Reservations are required.

All ages

Flashlight Egg Hunt Amp up the fun by hunting Easter eggs in the dark! Bring your flashlights, cameras and Easter baskets for an egg hunt to remember! Fee includes egg hunt, a visit from the bunny and a special snack. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ Terramont Park, The Woodlands 7:45pm. Under 12 years old.

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APRIL 2 A Bach Easter (April 2 & 3) Celebrate the season with exquisite music of Bach including two of Bach’s great sacred cantatas with internationally renowned vocalists. houstonsymphony.org Jones Hall or live streamed 8pm. All ages

To DYE For - Egg Decorating and Hunt Set aside time to decorate and dye Easter eggs! All eggs, dye, and decorations will be provided; leave the clean up to us! Enjoy decorating, egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Bring your Easter basket and a camera!

A p r il 2 0 2 1 www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 9am. All ages

Easter Egg Scramble Come out for an opportunity for your little egg-splorers to hunt for Easter eggs! Each egg hunt will include a small craft and refreshments followed by the egg hunt on the field and special visit from the bunny! www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 1pm, 2pm, 4pm. All ages

APRIL 3 Easter Egg hunt In celebration of the holiday, the hunt will take place inside the exhibit area so that adults may tour the exhibits while the kids hunt for eggs. czechcenter.org Czech Center Museum Houston 2pm. All ages. Free for children under 12 years old.

Easter Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt Children are invited to bring their Easter baskets to the mall where they will be able to ‘find’ eggs from participating retailers. Then go to the The Square for performances. memorialcity.com Memorial City Mall 2-4pm. All ages

Virtual Art in the Park Virtual Art in the Park will be a collection of diverse digital experiences curated for you to enjoy. This year’s theme, Art is Still in our HeARTs, will be a celebration of Houston’s art community. midtownhouston.com Virtual event 10am-nonn. All ages

7 acres Wood Celebrate EASTER with barnyard friends in a large outdoor park with plenty of room to social distance! This is so egg.. citing!! You can hunt Easter eggs, zip down our NEW zipline, visit the petting zoo, play mini-golf, play in Tombstone, our western town, play on the playground, and much more FOR FREE!!! easteregghuntsandeasterevents.org 4401 N Frazier, Conroe, TX 77303 10am-3pm. All ages

APRIL 4

Spring Cup (Easter Sunday) Spring Season kickoff! Watch as 2 teams compete for the ball, may the best ponies and players WIN! Candy toss for kids at halftime, champagne divot stomp for the adults. Kids bring a bag or basket to collect goodies! Enjoy great music, expert announcing, champagne divot stomp at halftime. houstonpoloclub.com

Houston Polo Club 5pm. All ages. Ticket prices vary from $15.50-$32.50, box seats for 2-20 guests $79-$695.

APRIL 5 VIRTUAL Crafternoon Learn about fun crafts to do using supplies you probably have in your home! www.hcpl.net/events/39865Learn Virtual 1pm. All ages

Photo by CiCi Loo Photography www.ciciloophotography.com

bluebonnets in houston Looking for that “Picture Perfect Location” for a favorite Texas Tradition? Here’s where you can find the bluebonnets around town this spring.

APRIL 6

Buffalo Bayou

First Tuesday at the Houston Zoo

The park usually has patches. You can park at The Dunlavy, walk the trail about half a mile and you’ll usually find them past the first bridge.

Address: 1800 Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive, Houston.

You’ll need a ticket to enter the gates, so get them early.

Houstonzoo.org Houston Zoo Various times. All ages

White Oak Bayou near Loop 610 and 18th St.

Brunch & Books Join in for a moderated discussion of the book Homeless by Choice with motivational speaker and author Roy Juarez to learn more about his mission to inspire youth. midtownhouston.com Virtual. facebook.com/midtownHOU 11:30am. Age: adult

VIRTUAL Teach You Tuesday learn a new craft, skill, or technique. Join Pop Shop America to learn how to create clay bead necklaces and keychains. midtownhouston.com facebook.com/midtownHOU 5:30pm. All ages

Dancing under the Stars/ Dance with Me Learn ballroom dance under the stars. shopatmarketstreet.com Market Street’s Central Park, The Woodlands 7pm. Age: adult

The stretch of the bayou that runs alongside TC Jester from W. 34th St. to Ella Boulevard (near 18th St.) typically has tons of flowers perfect for pictures.

The Woodlands Visit the spacious Rob Fleming Park for patches of bluebonnets. The park is perfect for an afternoon out, so make a day of it and bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the amenities.

Sugar Land Master-planned community Telfair has Bluebonnets that bloom along the river that runs north-south through the territory, specifically near the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land.

Energy Corridor Terry Hershey Park usually has plenty of flowers to go around, and the park itself has fun amenities to make for a good afternoon out.

Blessington Farms They plant Bluebonnets every year in its flower patch. It’s best to call ahead to check their status before planning your visit.

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the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S VIBR8 Sound Therapy Explore meditation with sound healing; self-care is beneficial for anyone from beginners to advanced meditators who are ready to experience a greater sense of peace and well-being. levyparkhouston.org Levy Park 7pm. All ages

Book Reading and Discussion Aru Shah and the City of Gold by Roshani Chokshi . Join Roshani Chokshi as she discusses her new novel. bluewillowbookshop.com Virtual. Registration is required 5pm. All ages

Proceeds raised from this Walk will be dedicated to Community Support Programs designed to decrease the number of unwanted animals that enter GIHS each year. The event will be both online and on Stewart Beach. galvestonchamber.chambermaster.com

Nature Discovery Center & Story time Visit the discovery rooms and enjoy the outdoor trails and play area. Plan to stay for nature story time which can include live animal encounters and a simple craft. naturediscoverycenter.org

Book Reading and Discussion Hello, Cruel Heart by Maureen Johnson.

The author will appear in conversation with Holly Black to celebrate the release of her novel. bluewillowbookshop.com Virtual. Registration is required.

7pm. All ages

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum 10am-3pm. All ages

Steps for Pets/Galveston Island Humane Society

APRIL 7

Nature Discover Center Tues.-Fri. Noon-5:30pm, Sat.-Sun. 10am530pm, story time Wednesday at 4pm. All ages

are used to disguise, while other masks are used to reveal something about the people wearing them. Create a revealing mask to represent your chosen ‘-ology’ from the oil and gas industry. oceanstaroec.com

Online and Stewart Beach 10am-noon. All ages

Spring Concert Series: The Fab 5 The Fab 5 is a Houston-based tribute band performing the greatest hits of THE BEATLES, THE ROLLING STONES, and many more! shopatmarketstreet.com Market Street, The Woodlands 6-8pm. All ages

APRIL 9 Movie Night: The Bodyguard Bring your blankets and watch best-selling pop diva Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston) deal with a stalker whose obsession has risen to the level of disturbing threats. marketsquarepark.com

Woodlands waterway arts festival (April 10 & 11) Enjoy the original works of over 200 juried artists, complimented by live musical performances and lots of activities for the children. thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/p/festival Town Green Park, Woodlands 10am-6pm. All ages

Levy Park Live!

Bring a blanket and come enjoy the sounds of Houston! levyparkhouston.org Levy Park 5pm. All ages

Take storytime outdoors with this unique storytime put on by Mercer Botanic Gardens and Harris County Public Library. Each storytime meets at a different location around the Gardens for a nature-inspired story circle for parents and kids. hcp4.net/parks/mercer Mercer Botanic Gardens 10:30am. Age: 2-5

APRIL 8 Throwback Thursday Roller Skating Skate to songs from decades past curated by DJ Mohawk Steve. discoverygreen.com Discovery Green 7-9pm. All ages

Virtual Blue Willow Bookshop Story Time Enjoy Blue Willow’s virtual storytime, songs and an art activity every Thursday. bluewillowbookshop.com Blue Willow Bookshop 10am. Age: Toddlers and preschoolers

Asia Society Texas Center 8-10pm. All ages

Opry on the Square Come out to enjoy Country Now and Then, featuring country favorites that will appeal to all generations of country music fans! sugarlandtownsquare.com Sugarland town square 7:30pm. All ages

Concert in the Park: Andy and The Dreamsicles (Classic Rock) Bring Blankets, coolers and lawn chairs. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Dr., The Woodlands 5:30pm. All ages

APRIL 12 Book Reading and Discussion: Sunflower Sisters by Martha Hall Kelly Join Martha Hall Kelly as she discusses her new novel. bluewillowbookshop.com Virtual. Registration is required 5pm. All ages

APRIL 13 Book Reading and Discussion: Between the Bliss and Me by Lizzy Mason.

Join Lizzy Mason and Robin Benway as they discuss Lizzy’s new novel. bluewillowbookshop.com

Dancing under the Stars/ Dance with Me

Front Lawn Film Nights: ‘Enter the Dragon’ Follow a series of Asian and Asian American films screened outdoors on the festival lawn! asiasociety.org/texas/events

Houston Polo Club 5pm. Ticket prices vary from $15.50$32.50, box seats for 2-20 guests $79-$695.

Virtual. Registration is required 5pm. All ages

Market square park 8pm. All ages

Children’s Storytime in the Garden

DRESSED COUPLE contest. Stomp divots at the halftime along with a toast of champagne, enjoy live flamenco guitar music, expert announcing, MEET A PRO at the special trophy presentation after the game. houstonpoloclub.com

Shakespeare Family Fest (April 10 & 11) Explore the magic of theatre with virtual performances of A Mini-Summer Night’s Dream and The Tiny Tempest, a stage blood demonstration, interactive workshops, crafting activities, and more. shakespearetheatre.org/shakespearefamily-fest Virtual. Registration is required.

Check the schedule for performance times. Age: 5+

APRIL 11

Learn ballroom dance under the stars. shopatmarketstreet.com Market Street’s Central Park, The Woodlands 7pm. Age: adult

Family Storytime & Craft Enjoy a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime, held under the pavilion, features a socially distanced reading followed by a craft that accompanies the book. All craft supplies are included. levyparkhouston.org Levy Park 10am. All ages

APRIL 14

APRIL 10 Early Childhood Workshop – Online

Nature Discovery Center & Story time

In addition to petroleum, learn about nine other energy sources and how each one is important to you at any moment of every day. oceanstaroec.com

Visit the discovery rooms and enjoy the outdoor trails and play area. Plan to stay for nature story time which can include live animal encounters and a simple craft. naturediscoverycenter.org

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum 8:30am-3:30pm. Age: adult

Family Day: Maskology Did you know that the use of masks varies from culture to culture? Some masks

Bluebonnet cup Feel the THUNDERING hooves of the thoroughbreds as they run for the goal! WEAR YOUR WHITES DAY! BEST

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Nature Discover Center Tues.-Fri. Noon-5:30pm, Sat.-Sun. 10am530pm, story time Wednesday at 4pm. All ages

A p r il 2 0 2 1 Family Adventures Series: Micro-Mercer Bring the children to learn about the plants and flowers that grow in the garden followed by craft activities. hcp4.net/parks/mercer Mercer Botanic Gardens 4-6pm. Age: 5-12

APRIL 15

Family Concert with the Houston Symphony Gather the whole family for a morning of live musical fun, right from home!

Houston Symphony musicians take the stage at Jones Hall in downtown Houston for concerts specially designed to keep young ones singing and dancing along! houstonsymphony.org Houston Symphony Live stream 11am. All ages

Volunteer at the Buffalo Bayou

Galveston FeatherFest (April 15 – 18) If you’re a serious or casual bird-watcher or nature photographer, an experienced or new outdoor enthusiast or someone who wants some exercise, fresh air and sunshine and something different to do, you’ll want to attend the FeatherFest. www.galveston.com

Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council Select times. All ages

VIRTUAL Yappy Hour Have a virtual Yappy Hour with instructors from Jackson’s Place Unleashed Pet Resort & Bakery. Learn different tricks to keep your pup well-trained and entertained. midtownhouston.com

A Walk in Nature

Wednesday 11am-5pm, Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday & Saturday 11am6pm, Sunday 12:30pm- 6pm

Enjoy a free walking tour in Buffalo Bayou Park highlighting the landscape and ecology of 19th century Texas that created Houston, as well as the importance of prairies in rebuilding this astonishing and all but vanished ecosystem. buffalobayou.org Buffalo Bayou 10:30am. All ages

APRIL 18

Market Street, The Woodlands 6-8pm. All ages

APRIL 16 Worldfest: Houston International Film Fest (April 16 – 25) A blend of feature and short films, screenplays, music videos, and more. worldfest.org various locations, $12 and up. Age: 15+

EcoTots at Armand Bayou Nature Center Get involved in nature with your toddler!

EcoTots activities include nature walks, art activities, stories, and nature exploration with other parents and their children. abnc.org/eco-programs Armand Bayou Nature Center 9:30am. Age: 18 months -3 years old.

Temporary Hours of Operation

Monday- closed except selected holidays, Tuesday – closed

Carmen Herrera: Structuring Surfaces Carmen Herrera has built a prolific career spanning nine decades, dedicated to expanding the boundaries of geometric abstraction. Carmen Herrera: Structuring Surfaces is the first MFAH exhibition devoted exclusively to the internationally celebrated Cuban American artist, who turned 105 in May. Through April 2021

Hockney-Van Gogh: The Joy of Nature Two visionary artists, separated in time and space, are united by a shared fascination with nature.

Enjoy Blue Willow’s virtual storytime, songs and an art activity every Thursday. bluewillowbookshop.com

Listen to some live music under the stars. shopatmarketstreet.com

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS HOUSTON

mfah.org

Buffalo Bayou 9am. Age: 9+

Virtual Blue Willow Bookshop Story Time

Spring Concert Series: Gary Kyle

NOW EXHIBITING | MUSEUM CALENDAR

Lend a hand to Buffalo Bayou Partnership! Volunteers are invited to help care for Buffalo Bayou’s parks and trails on the 3rd Saturday of each month. buffalobayou.org

facebook.com/midtownHOU/ 5:30pm. Age: adult

Blue Willow Bookshop 10am. Age: Toddlers and preschoolers

Gear Up: The Science of Bikes The Health Museum

APRIL 17

Through June 2021

Centennial Cup WINNING TEAM TAKES ALL! Enjoy world class polo, great music, expert announcing and a champagne divot stomp at halftime. houstonpoloclub.com

Houston Polo Club 5pm. Ticket prices vary from $15.50$32.50, box seats for 2-20 guests $79-$695.

Earth Day Festival The festival is designed to educate, inspire and encourage action. The event features exhibitions, a panel discussion and live mural painting! discoverygreen.com Discovery Green 10am-2pm. All ages

Concert in the Park: The Shades of Gray (Blues/Country) Bring Blankets, coolers and lawn chairs. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Dr., The Woodlands 5:30pm. All ages

Electrifying Design: A Century of Lighting Over the past 100 years, the field of lighting design has been a catalyst for technological and artistic expression.

Through May 2021

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM

hmh.org

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm., Sat. 10am5pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Stories of Survival: Object.

Image. Memory.

Stories of Survival: Object. Image.

Memory. is an epic exhibition showcasing more than 40 personal artifacts brought to America by Survivors of the Holocaust and other genocides.

Through April 2021

41 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE

hmns.org

9am-5pm Mon-Sun

Pompeii: The Exhibition The exhibition tells the tale of the lost and forgotten city of Pompeii, hidden until its rediscovery more than 250 years ago. Peruse the 150 precious artifacts on loan from the unparalleled collection of the Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy.

Through March 2021

THE HEALTH MUSEUM

www.thehealthmuseum.org Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm., Thurs.

9am-7pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Admission: $10 adult, $8 senior 65+, free for children under 2 FREE on Thursdays 2-7pm

GEAR UP: The Science of Bikes This interactive exhibition tells the story of the bicycle from inception to present day. Visitors learn how bikes work; what the history/evolution of the bike is; the science and technology behind the machine; and how bikes have impacted our culture.

Through May 21, 2021

LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM

Lonestarflight.org

Hours: Thurs.-Sat. 10am-5pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Fight to the Finish Exhibits Lest we forget those that fought for the freedoms and liberties we have today, we have the opportunity to reflect on the final year of the war and the personal strength and sacrifices of those that fought abroad and those that served and supported here at home.

Through April 2021

the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S APRIL 19

APRIL 22

The Menil Collection

APRIL 24

Located in the heart of Houston, this impressive collection is located in several buildings nestled between pocket parks and outdoor sculptures, a perfect setting for picnic lunch. Menil.org Menil Collection

Waterway Night Take the family out to listen to live music under the stars. visitthewoodlands.com Waterway Square on The Woodlands Waterway 6:30pm. All ages

11am-7pm every day. All ages. Stroller friendly.

APRIL 20 Dancing under the Stars/ Dance with Me Learn ballroom dance under the stars. shopatmarketstreet.com Market Street’s Central Park, The Woodlands 7pm. Age: adult

VIBR8 Sound Therapy Explore meditation with sound healing; self-care is beneficial for anyone from beginners to advanced meditators who are ready to experience a greater sense of peace and well-being. levyparkhouston.org

Virtual Event Various times. All ages

Earth Day Enjoy earth-conscious activities like guided nature hikes, crafts made from recycled materials, and scavenger hunts.

Houstonarboretum.org Houston Arboretum and Nature Center 10am-2pm. All ages

Spring Concert Series: A tribute to The Eagles Listen to some live music under the stars. shopatmarketstreet.com Market Street, The Woodlands 6-8pm. All ages

If you haven’t already been, GO! Undergoing an extensive makeover that lasted 2 years, you can finally go back to exploring the galaxy. hmns.org/george-observatory

Betty Head Oleander Garden Park, Galveston 10am-4pm. All ages

Movie Night: The Princess Bride Bring your blankets and watch a fairy tale adventure about a beautiful young woman and her one true love. He must find her after a long separation and save her. marketsquarepark.com Market Square Park 8pm. All ages

Nature Discovery Center & Story time Visit the discovery rooms and enjoy the outdoor trails and play area. Plan to stay for nature story time which can include live animal encounters and a simple craft. naturediscoverycenter.org Nature Discover Center Tues.-Fri. Noon-5:30pm, Sat.-Sun. 10am530pm, story time Wednesday at 4pm. All ages

Children’s Storytime in the Garden Take storytime outdoors with this unique storytime put on by Mercer Botanic Gardens and Harris County Public Library. hcp4.net/parks/mercer Mercer Botanic Gardens 10:30am. Age: 2-5

Sugarland Town Square 10am. Age 1-5

The season concludes with flair with a world premiere commission by Reena Esmail and performance by Kathryn Mueller roco.org/performances/ Virtual 5pm. All ages

Garden Railroad Run Days at Rosenberg Railroad Museum Check out which trains have been picked to chug through Garden Railroad Run Days, then stick around for extra activities for the kids. Garden Railroad Run Days are on the fourth Sunday of the month at the Rosenberg Railroad Museum. rosenbergrrmuseum.org Rosenberg Museum 1-4pm. All ages

Sunny Dayz Night Out

Explore these well-thought-out crafts, discussions, videos, storytimes and dances as you explore global learning and foster cultural empathy by sparking learner curiosity, contextualizing information, and sharing different perspectives with your child. asiasociety.org

Family Storytime & Craft Enjoy a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime, held under the pavilion, features a socially distanced reading followed by a craft that accompanies the book. All craft supplies are included. levyparkhouston.org Levy Park 10am. All ages

APRIL 28 Nature Discovery Center & Story time Visit the discovery rooms and enjoy the outdoor trails and play area. Plan to stay for nature story time which can include live animal encounters and a simple craft. naturediscoverycenter.org Nature Discover Center Tues.-Fri. Noon-5:30pm, Sat.-Sun. 10am530pm, story time Wednesday at 4pm. All ages

APRIL 29 Virtual Blue Willow Bookshop Story Time

Blue Willow Bookshop 10am. Age: Toddlers and preschoolers

Parents enjoy a night out while your kids enjoy all their Sunny Dayz Camp favorites and new activities such as: nighttime movies, games, hikes, S’Mores making and more! thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/

At-Home Adventures through Asia: India

APRIL 27

Enjoy Blue Willow’s virtual storytime, songs and an art activity every Thursday. bluewillowbookshop.com

APRIL 23

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, The Woodlands 4pm. Age 6-12

George Observatory Dusk. Age: 6+

ROCO in Concert: Flamenco

2-4pm. All ages

Vivaldi Music Academy welcomes families to join them in the Plaza for a fun morning full of singing and dancing in designated areas of the plaza arranged by lawn rugs. The instructor will be guide families through a fun variety of early childhood activities. sugarlandtownsquare.com

Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens Every day. Age: 6+

George Observatory

Encounter real specimens and artifacts from the museum collection in an intimate, educational atmosphere. levyparkhouston.org

Children’s Music Class in the Park with Vivaldi

There’s mystery afoot at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. Detective Days are self-guided activity sheets for both the house and the gardens that provide a focused activity, challenging a child’s observational skills and critical thinking. mfah.org

Support the Oleander Society while enjoying plant art vendors, demonstrations, giveaways, music and food. oleander.org

Houston Museum of Natural Science at the Park

APRIL 21

Detective Days

Garden festival

APRIL 25

Levy Park 7pm. All ages

APRIL 26

APRIL 30 St. Regis Classic WITNESS THESE 8 players GO HEAD TO HEAD, PONY TO PONY! Enjoy live flamenco guitar music, expert announcing and WORLD CLASS polo. BEST GENTLEMANS HAT Contest. houstonpoloclub.com Houston Polo Club 5pm. Ticket prices vary from $15.50$32.50, box seats for 2-20 guests $79-$695.

42 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

Family Movie Night: Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse spidey adventure at Levy Park’s Family Movie Night sponsored by Texas Children’s Hospital featuring Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse! levyparkhouston.org Levy Park

National Arbor Day Join in the festivities. hcp4.net/parks/mercer

Mercer Botanic Gardens 2-5pm. Age: Adult

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PRIMARY CARE that fits your life

Safe, convenient primary care — at a location near you.

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1488 1774

At Houston Methodist, we provide personalized care for you and your family, including physicals, immunizations and preventive care.

Many of our practices: • Provide in-person and virtual visits with online scheduling • Offer same-day sick visits • Are conveniently located close to work or home • Accept most major insurance plans

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And, with enhanced safety measures in place, you can rest assured your safety is our priority.

houstonmethodist.org/pcg 713.394.6724 44 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE April 2021

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