VOLUME 34 | ISSUE 8
GIRL POWER
Discover the 2022 Girl Scouts
YOU CAN SURVIVE
Back to School Shopping
FIVE THINGS YOU NEED According to Your Child's Teacher
SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER
Last Family Vacay before BTS
SPEED UP THE DAWDLER Kick off the School Year on Time
AUGUST 2022
2 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
more exploration
Conquer towering slides, be a swashbuckling pirate, or take the princess pledge during your summer getaway to Gaylord Texan.
GaylordTexan.com more thrills
TABLE OF CONTENTS
7
FAMILY FINDS
8
100 YEARS ON A MISSION
12 14 16 18 24 28 32
ON THE COVER
curated by HFM Staff
written by Heather Ganucheau
SURVIVING SCHOOL SHOPPING written by Jill Morgenstern
SPEED UP THE DAWDLER written by Sarah Lyons
10 THINGS YOUR CHILD'S TEACHER WISHES YOU KNEW written by Jill Morgenstern
MEAN GIRLS: DISMANTLE THE MEAN GIRL TIME BOMB written by Christina Katz
COUNTDOWN TO COLLEGE written by Janeen Lewis
ADVENTUROUS APPROACH TO EDUCATION written by Christina Katz
VOLUNTEER WISDOM: 7 WAYS TO BE A SCHOOL HELPER WITHOUT LOSING YOUR BALANCE written by Christina Katz
Get Your Girl Power on with Girl Scouts of San Jacinto! gssjc.org
34
FT. LAUDERDALE AT THE PELICAN GRAND BEACH RESORT written by Amy Garrett
IN EVERY ISSUE 5 PUBLISHER'S NOTE Pack your bags for back to school
22 BOOK BITES
6 FAMILY FYI
36 THE BIG TO-DO
Things you need to know
From Blue Willow Bookshop
Explore all the fun things happening in the Greater Houston area.
4 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
PUBLISHER'S NOTE publisher/editor
Kimberly Davis Guerra kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com
associate editor
Chantal Lemieux chantal@houstonfamilymagazine.com
creative director/ production
Casey Johnson casey@houstonfamilymagazine.com
staff photographer Amy Garrett
contributing authors Heather Ganucheau Kimberly Davis Guerra Christina Katz Sarah Lyons Jill Morgenstern Amy Garrett
advertising sales Beverly Davis Tish Petty
printing
Publication Printers Denver, Colorado
contact us:
1334 Brittmoore Rd. Box #1000B Houston, TX 77043 (P) 713.266.1885 (F) 713.266.1915 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Listen - can you hear it? The collective rejoicing of parents all across town....... the kids are back in school!! While I do not relish the ideas of early mornings and late night cramming sessions, I very much appreciate getting back into routine. My house can only handle so many days of lazy days of summer before I start to worry that my kid will permanently become part of the couch!! This month's issue is completely dedicated to all things 'back to school'. Surviving shopping for BTS clothes, Speeding up the morning Dawdlers, How to Survive Mean Girls, Starting the Countdown to College and all the prep that goes with it and much more! If you still have some vacation time and are looking for a fast family getaway, then look no further than Ft. Lauderdale!
No longer just for spring breakers and Snow Birds, Ft. Lauderdale beach is a beautiful. affordable destinatio for the whole family. Check out Amy Garrett's story Wherever your child goes to school, whenever they start, we hope that this school year offers the kids some normalcy. No outbreaks. No active shooters. Just new friends. School dances. Tryouts and Friday Night Lights. Here's to a great school year.
With hope,
Kimberly Davis Guerra
FIND US ON FACEBOOK @houstonfamilymagazine FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @houstonfamilymagazine CONTACT US Let us know how we’re doing. kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com 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. 5 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
family FYI EDUCATION
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and their families as they prepare to return to school. This year, we are excited to return to an in-person event at the George R. Brown Convention Center. There is still a critical need for assistance with
August 2nd is National Dinosaurs Day!
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AUGUST IS SPINAL MUSCULAR ATROPHY AWARENESS MONTH
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Explore our dinosaur rides, giant fossil dig, inflatables, fossil science exhibit, “Triceratots” soft play area, and MORE!
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Read her story online @houstonfamilymagazine.com
6 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
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7 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
100 YEARS ON A MISSION
Fun, Friendship & New Adventures! @gssjc.org
By Heather Ganucheau
Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council (GSSJC) is proud to celebrate 100 years of Girl Scouting in the southeast Texas region this year! When our council was founded in 1922, our mission began to build girls of confidence, courage and character and support the development of our future female leaders. That mission remains strong today as we continue to provide the best experiences, programs, and resources for girls to become the leaders of today and beyond.
8 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
It's So Much
Fun!!! Fun, friendship, and new adventures are what Girl Scouts is all about.
Right now, Girl Scouts are meeting furry friends at the local animal shelters, giggling past lights-out at sleepovers, and learning how their favorite roller coasters work. Above all else, they’re having a blast—because they know bringing the fun is all about being their true selves, trying new things, and cheering each other on. Girls can expect a fun time and they and their friends decide on their next adventures together. Attend summer camp? Travel to Disney World? Create craft projects for local charities? The options are endless when girls are in charge! Our mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. We’d love for you to join the fun as we plan for another year of adventures.
Whether your Girl Scout is interested in learning more about space or wants to sail the high seas, we have a group or her, including:
Archery Astronomy Backpacking Horseback Riding Robotics Team Sailing And so much more!
Leadership
Development Did you know.... 73% of female senators were Girl Scouts
50% of female business owners were Girl Scouts
50% of female Tech leaders were Girl Scouts
With focuses on exploring STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), mastering the outdoors, honing life skills, real-world entrepreneurship experience, and everything in between, Girl Scouts is the best girl leadership development program in the world. The organization is positioned to help girls develop important leadership skills they need to succeed well beyond their years in Girl Scouting. Guided by supportive adults and peers, girls develop their leadership potential through age-appropriate activities that enable them to discover their values, skills, and the world around them; connect with others in a multicultural environment, and take action to make a difference in the world. Girl Scouts of all ages lead the charge and complete projects that they are passionate about to make a difference in their communities. Girls can put these leadership skills to use as they work toward earning a Highest Award, including the Gold Award. The Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouts, and one of the most prestigious awards for girls in the world. To earn the Gold Award, girls must demonstrate an exceptional level of leadership as they address an issue they feel passionately about. By taking action and organizing a plan to make the world a better place, Gold Award Girl Scouts acquire real-world experience that they can utilize well into adulthood, allowing them to excel in many areas of life, including college admissions and scholarships, careers, and community involvement. Think of the Gold Award as a key that can open doors to higher education and amazing career opportunities.
9 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Mental
Health Support
The last few years have highlighted the urgent need for mental wellness support for adolescents and girls in our community. According to a 2019 Pew Research Poll, more than 70% of teen respondents identified Anxiety & Depression as major problems. At Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, we aim to equip girls with tools to promote and encourage greater social-emotional confidence and resilience and provide support systems when challenges arise. Research has shown that Girl Scouts develops a strong sense of community and belonging for its members, and this connection is so important in a young girl’s development. In addition to the sense of community and support that Girl Scouts provides, there are also patch programs such as “Resilient, Ready, Strong” and the “Okay to Say” that focus on mental health awareness and provide the tools needed to continue to build girls of confidence.
According to the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto 2021 Voices Count Survey: of girls said that being a part of Girl Scouts helped them feel less isolated and lonely & feel more connected
80%
We're Girl Scouts of the USA We’re 1.7 million girls and adults who believe in the power of every girl to change the world. Chartered by GSUSA to provide Girl Scouting locally, Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, a United Way agency, is one of the largest Girl Scout councils in the country serving more than 35,000 girl members and 14,000 adults in 26 southeast Texas counties. For more information, call 713-292-0300 or visit www.gssjc.org. 10 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
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11 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
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urviving chool hopping! By Jill Morgenstern
Some people love to shop.
Tax Free Weekend Aug 5-7, 2022
I am not among them.
Shoppers do not have to pay tax on supplies purchased online or in person, as long as the total price of the supplies is under $100, including delivery fees.
For me, back to school shopping is to be withstood, not enjoyed. But even people who enjoy the shopping experience may find it harder with kids in tow. How can you get everything they need for back to school when the kids are intent on stopping at the toy aisle of every store and begging for all the candy?
12 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Make a plan Start with a list of what you need and plan your attack ahead of time. Making a budget helps too. Even very young children can understand that if you spend more on one item, you may not be able to spend as much on the next. Older children can help plan the budget and keep track of what’s being spent.
Declutter Tackling your child’s room before heading out to the stores can help you determine exactly what is needed. This is a great time to organize and see what is and isn’t already there.
Make sure you are also well rested The same goes for the grownups! The crowds will seem less suffocating and the traffic jams less frustrating if you’ve had your rest.
Go without them This is obviously the easiest. It works for pencils, markers, and crayons. It may not work out as well if new shoes are on the list. Still, if you can manage to go without the kids, this will greatly reduce the amount of time you must spend shopping.
Choose your battles
Go just after a meal Right after breakfast is a great time to shop. The stores are less crowded earlier and everyone’s on a full tank. If you can’t go right after breakfast, try right after lunch.
This oft repeated guidance applies to back to school shopping too. This may not be the time to critique your child’s unique style. And maybe you can give in to a treat here or there.
Try for a positive attitude
Bring snacks and water Nothing makes a shopping trip harder than a hungry or thirsty child. Pack some cheese sticks and a bottle of water and you won’t have to stop your school shopping to buy food.
Shopping with your child can be a great time to see his or her particular style and to spend time with your child.
Shop ahead Some items will be on the list year after year. If you pick these up ahead of time you may be able to find them on sale. Just after a season ends can be a great time to pick up out of season merchandise. If you have the storage space at home, try getting a hat or mittens just after hat and mitten season, for example.
Shop online or do a curbside pickup Amazon and other online retailers carry many of the necessary back to school items without having to leave home.
Go when they are well rested A well rested child will be less likely to protest your limits than a cranky one. No one likes to hear “no” but it’s easier to hear after a full night’s sleep.
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Speed Up the Dawdler By Sarah Lyons
I
s your family always running late? Do you find yourself frustratingly repeating phrases like “Hurry!”, “Let’s go!”, or “Come on! We are going to be late!” every morning? Like many families, you may have a dawdler living in your house. Getting kids ready for the day and out the door, especially on school mornings, is challenging for any parent but when you have one (or more) children that seem to take their time every morning, getting anywhere on time can seem impossible. Here are some tips to help you speed up the dawdler in your family.
Set limits Typically, dawdlers are easily distracted. Many times, I have sent my son upstairs for some socks and he has come back down barefoot carrying a toy plane. Reduce distractions by limiting toys and screen time (for both parents and kids) in the morning. Remind them that there will be plenty of time for play after school when their homework and chores are complete.
Make it a competition Many parents have success getting their dawdler to pick up the pace by creating a game or competition for them. Holly Searls, Kansas mom of four says, “We set timers for everything. There is usually a motivator connected to the timer. For example, if they beat the timer, they get to stay up later. A negative consequence may be losing TV time.” DeAnne Turley, mother of three, uses a sticker chart to motivate her kids. For example, if they are ready on time they get a sticker and if they collect 30 stickers they get a date night with the parent of their choice. Creating a competition or game out of each task in the morning is a great way to keep your child on task.
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Be prepared There are so many things to remember in the morning. Is there orchestra practice today? Practice after school? What’s for lunch? Do you have your math homework? The stress of these last minute questions can be greatly reduced by preparing the night before. “Choices seem to slow us down the most.” says Krystal Laws, mother of seven. “We pick out clothes the night before and lay shoes by the door. This makes the mornings run smoother.” Loading backpacks, packing lunches, and setting out any sports equipment or instruments the night before will help everyone feel more prepared the next morning and focus on the goal of getting out the door on time.
Get up earlier For those children who need a little extra time, simply rising earlier in the morning may give them the time they need to keep on task. “My daughter needs time to wake up and adjust to a new day. So we just had to start getting up earlier.” says Daniale Lakin of Nebraska. For other families, if the parents are able to wake up earlier and get themselves ready and prepared for the day, the whole family has a more relaxed morning because there are fewer people who need to get ready at the same time.
Face the consequences Even the most prepared family is sometimes late. Older children who tend to dawdle may benefit from facing the natural consequences that go along with being late or forgetful. “After years of arguments, I decided to put the ball in their court. If they are not prepared or punctual then the day they suffer the consequences the school gives.” says Jessica Bright-Schaben, mother of three. “If they forget homework or to charge devices, they may have to stay after school. Tardies get them benched at games.”
Teaching children that if they are late, they may face consequences or miss out on something helps them become responsible for how they manage their time. “They could block out my nagging, but when they couldn’t play or attend practice because of detention, they picked up the pace immediately.” says Bright-Schaben. A dawdler can slow the whole family down or make them late. Try to encourage your child to prepare as much as possible the night before and get to bed on time. Kids who get a good night's sleep have better focus the next day. If dawdling continues, let them face the natural consequences of their pokey pace. While some of us tend to move slower than others, especially in the morning, teaching your child these skills will help them manage their mornings.
What Not To Do
Lose your temper
Try to remain calm, yelling and nagging will only train them to tune you out.
Overuse phrases such as “Hurry up!”
Telling your child to “hurry” usually does not speed them up at all. Try setting a timer for each task or giving them specific instructions.
Set a bad example
Are you an adult dawdler? If you tell your child it’s time to go and then stop to check your email, use the restroom, and grab one more thing, you are modeling that dawdling is the norm.
Give vague instructions
Instead of “Get ready to go.” try “Put your shoes and socks on right now.” or “It’s time to get in the car.” Kids need to know exactly what they are supposed to be doing at that moment.
15 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Things Your Child's Teacher Wishes You Knew By Jill Morgenstern
F
all will soon be arriving and with it the promise of a brand new school year. It’s time for a fresh start for everyone. But what if you and your child could start the school year knowing all the teacher’s wishes for the upcoming year? It turns out you can! We asked teachers what they wish the parents of their classroom kids knew and here’s what we found out:
Start with the teacher Aliyah Hitchcock, a teacher in central Houston stresses the importance of coming to the teacher first with any problems or frustrations, rather than going straight to the principal or director. This is important not just because the principal is so busy, but also because often there has just been a misunderstanding. Even if it’s not a misunderstanding and may require a change on the teacher’s part, “Give us a chance to fix it.” asks Hitchcock.
Label EVERYTHING Most school’s lost and found could open their own clothing shop, not to mention the accessories. I can’t count the times as a teacher that I’ve had children refuse to acknowledge their own possessions. Do the teacher a favor and label as much as possible to reduce confusion.
Be the Teacher's Partner “Be a partner with your child’s teacher and the staff members that work with your child.” says Barbara Bennet of Spring ISD. Your child’s teacher may not be the one you would have chosen. He or she might have a communication style that doesn’t suit you. But whatever the general demeanor, your child’s teacher wants your child to succeed. You can help by remembering that you’re both on the same team - your child’s.
Instill a love of Reading “Make sure your child loves reading. Motivation is a huge indicator of reading success.” says teacher Kelsey Montgomery. One of the best ways to do this is to read aloud to your child. They’re never too old!
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Be an Open Book Let your child’s teacher know important information about your child. “How does he/she react to being corrected? You'd be surprised how even a gentle correction can sometimes trigger a child to feel angry/upset/shamed - other kids only respond to feedback to the point of bluntness.” says Helen Bibler, a certified teacher librarian from Illinois. Information such as this may be requested on the beginning of the year forms. If so, be sure and fill them out thoroughly. Michelle Renfrow, a Houston area teacher adds that this includes filling your child’s teacher in on any traumatic experiences your child may have endured, “Family member passing away, family pet passing away, flooding, hurricanes etc…” Make sure and include medications or allergies in this information. An email is a good way to communicate this information if it is not part of a required form.
Make Custody Info Known This can be particularly important if a divorce has been contentious, but even divorced parents that get along well should make sure the teacher has all necessary information. “My ex and I get along great but by letting the teachers know to include both of us, it makes sure that nothing slips through the cracks. This goes for emails, phone calls, etc,” says Jill Kaplin, a Houston area teacher.
Teach Respect Josh Lukasek, a teacher north of Houston, reminds parents that, “Respect begins at home. If parents don’t respect teachers, administrators, coaches, the kids never will.” This includes refraining from making negative comments about the teacher whenever a child might overhear.
Encourage Independence “Allow your child to be independent. Allow them to make decisions and to make mistakes. Doing everything for your child teaches them they are not able to think on their own.” says Houston area teacher Suzy Schaffer.
Set Realistic Expectations Help your child, “understand that you can’t win or make perfect scores every time…. Each child is great in their own way. Be kind!!” says Pat Mintz, a Houston area teacher.
Encourage Communication “To further develop vocabulary language skills and conversation etiquette, initiate interactive discussions with your child. Engage in active listening, pause between their words and yours, and respond in complete, on topic sentences.” says Houston area teacher Heather Thomas.
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Mean Girls Dismantle The Mean Girl Time Bomb Before Middle School: A Primer For Moms By Christina Katz
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The best way to make a positive impact on the girl vs. girl trend sweeping the nation is to address and redirect mean girl behavior in our daughters. Like many mothers of daughters I polled, I started noticing mean girl behavior early in my daughter's public school experience. Ironically, the behavior wasn't coming from acquaintances, but from girls my daughter considered friends. This brings up an uncomfortable reality: there is not much we can do about mean girl behavior in other people's kids. We can report it to their parents or to school or organization authorities, but there is little more we can do to ameliorate mean girl situations once they are happening. So what's a pro-active mom to do?
who simply makes a mistake. Make sure your child understands that it's okay to make mistakes, and that you expect her to be kind regardless of circumstances. Keep talking about what these three behaviors mean on an ongoing basis, until your daughter can tell the difference. Once she knows she always has a choice about how to respond in any situation, you are making good progress. Encourage Self-acceptance Over Popularity. Left to their own devices, kids will always decide that being popular is better than not being popular. In middle school, popularity is perceived as power and kids are instinctively hungry for it. Make sure you don't secretly hope your child will be one of the popular kids. If you put this trip on your child, you are encouraging her to put perceptions over feelings, which can lead to imposter syndrome. If you want your child to be authentic and emotionally intelligent, this means accepting and liking her as she is so she can accept and like herself. If you want your daughter to have genuine self-esteem, conversations on self-acceptance need to start young, long before middle school. Then let the popularity chips fall where they may. After all, popularity does not necessarily equal happiness.
There is much you can do to prevent mean girl behavior in your own daughter. One more girl setting an example of how to be kind and emotionally intelligent, despite peer pressure moving in the opposite direction, can help turn the tide. If mothers can encourage their daughters to stay open, vulnerable, and in touch with feelings no matter what, we might be able to dismantle the mean girl time bomb that ticks silently away inside every girl, just waiting to go off when that girl is pushed too far. Only when girls understand that bullying is never acceptable can a better example spread. If your daughter can embody healthier choices, she can help create harmony within her middle school girl tribe. Here are six crucial ways moms can prepare daughters to navigate the social pressures of middle school. Define Meanness. Rudeness, meanness, and bullying exist on a behavior spectrum. Meanness is intentionally hurtful, as opposed to rudeness, which is unintentionally hurtful, as opposed to bullying which is consistently hurtful. One of the problems with mean girl behavior is that it can be subtle, insidious, and elusive. Teach your daughter the difference between the three types of behaviors and how to tell the difference between someone who is consistently, purposefully mean and someone
19 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Keep Your Negativity In Check. When confronted with a challenging situation, your daughter will intuitively imitate the way you behave. If you project negativity onto others, she is going to learn to do the same. If you are insecure, she will be insecure. If you are superior and competitive with others, she will follow suit. If you judge and condemn...I am sure you get the picture. You can't hold your daughter accountable for her attitudes and actions, if you are not accountable for yours. Be sure you set a good example, mom, or you just might see your least appealing qualities reflected back to you in your daughter's behavior.
Reinforce & Challenge Your Daughter's Strengths.
Teach How To Detach From Drama. No matter how secure and emotionally intelligent your child, hormones will be ebbing and flowing in middle school. Rather than letting this become an excuse for poor behavior, teach your daughter to step back from situations when erratic emotions are involved. Girl vendettas are common in middle school and can ignite for the slightest reasons. Your daughter may empathize with one or both girls and get inadvertently sucked into a feud if she does not know how to avoid one. Teach your daughter to listen to the facts and form her own opinion without getting involved in any drama. Encourage her to not take sides when one girl turns against another, but to be the voice of reason whenever possible. Affirm that girls need to stick together and prop each other up when they are having a bad day without getting overly involved in solving each other's problems. Once your daughter understands that drama is a distraction from personal priorities, she can more easily steer clear.
Model Healthy Communication. Girls often start to lose their authentic voices when they become teenagers. So your job as your daughter's confidante is to keep the doors of communication open and let her be honest and real with you as she is trying to figure everything out. If your formerly sunshiny girl suddenly turns partly cloudy, don't fret. She may push you away and not want to talk as much as she used to, but don't give in to the common misperception that teenagers need to be left alone. Your middleschooler can't navigate this brave new social world solo. If you expect her to, she is going to feel stressed and look for friends who can help her take the edge off. You have to be there, mom, every day, listening and responsive, whenever either of you wants to talk.
If you want your daughter to be a leader, not a follower, she needs to know and use her strengths. If you and the rest of your family don't reflect her strengths back to her, it's going to take your daughter longer to activate her personal power. If you only reflect back her weaknesses, she is going to believe she is a walking, talking pile of not good enough, which makes her an easy target for mean girls. Girls with high self-esteem don't usually become targets and self-motivated girls don't focus on the behavior of others. If they have a negative encounter with another girl, they shrug it off and bounce back quickly. So make sure your daughter is armed with something besides superiority and a sharp tongue. Be certain she knows what she is good at and encourage her to put her strengths to good use in your community for the benefit of all. If your daughter is busy exercising her skills, challenging herself to reach new goals, and striving to make a positive impact in the world, she will gain the healthy self-esteem and confidence that result from positive personal experiences. Happy, engaged kids are less likely to bully others. Once your daughter understands the dynamics of mean girl behavior, she can steer clear of drama when it crops up and will keep you in the loop as to how she handled it. These are the kinds of conversations every mom hopes to have with her daughter in middle school. If you are not having them, then maybe your daughter needs the mean girl primer only you can give her. Take the time to educate yourself about how to avoid mean girl behavior before middle school starts, mom. Then share what you learn with your daughter. You will both be so glad you did.
20 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
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Stand Up for Yourself and Your Friends: Dealing with Bullies and Bossiness and Finding a Better Way by Patti Kelley Criswell A Smart Girl's Guide: Friendship Troubles: Dealing With Fights, Being Left Out & The Whole Popularity Thing by Patti Kelley Criswell A Smart Girl's Guide: Drama, Rumors & Secrets: Staying True to Yourself in Changing Times by Nancy Holyoke
A Smart Girl's Guide to Knowing What to Say by Patti Kelley Criswell
21 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Now Registering for the 22/23 School Year
B O O K
BITES BACK TO SCHOOL EDITION By Valerie Kohler, Blue Willow Bookshop
SPENCER GOES TO SCHOOL
PUPPY BUS
MY FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
by Michelle Romo Spencer the cat stars in another die-cut board book, introducing young children to what happens at school, including early vocabulary.
by Drew Brockington A boy, worried about his first day at a new school, finds himself on the wrong bus, a bus full of puppies bound for Puppy School-and discovers that despite the strange food and even weirder bathroom Puppy School is a lot of fun.
by Alyssa Capucilli Beginning readers can learn what to expect on the first day of school. What will it be like? You will meet the teacher and new friends. You will sing songs, play, learn, and so much more!"
MONSTER ON THE BUS
THE FIRST RULE OF CLIMATE CLUB
by Josh Lieb It's the first day of school. The school bus can be a little intimidating for first-time riders! Will you have a friend to sit next to? Will the driver be nice? . . . and in the case of this bus ride, will that monster eat your backpack? As the wheels go round and round, the bus gets more and more off course. Is that. . .a T. Rex sitting in the back?
by Carrie Firestone When twelve-year-old Mary Kate joins a special science pilot program focused on climate change, she and her friends come up with big plans to bring lasting change to their community.
HELLO PRESCHOOL by Priscilla Burris A class full of children experience their first day of preschool, where they introduce themselves to their teacher, sing a good morning song, play at recess, and learn their letters and numbers.
NEW KID WELCOME by Suzanne Slade In the first half of the book, the student tells us that they don't want to be nice to the new kid or welcome them into their group simply because they seem different. In the second half, the same lines of the story are placed in reverse order. When read this way, the student encourages us to say hello to someone new, saying they will share their table and snacks. With a simple flip of the story, feelings of intolerance give way to those of inclusion and kindness.
KINDERGARTEN by Vera Ahiyya Leo, a quiet kid who is not ready for his first day of kindergarten, ends up having a great day when he makes a kindness pledge and discovers he knows a lot about being kind to others.
22 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
IN THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY by Jane Kuo Arriving in America, the so-called beautiful country, Anna, a young Taiwanese girl, finds it anything but beautiful as she and her family struggle to make a place for themselves in this world and learn the true meaning of home.
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23 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
C O U N T D O W N
TO COLLEGE Tips to Help Students Find Their Fit By Janeen Lewis
The high school road to college may seem like four of the most challenging years families face. There are deadlines, tough financial choices and parents and children don't always agree on colleges. If that isn't stressful enough, every year there are tasks that high school students should be checking off their to-do list. How do parents help their high school students navigate all the details and decisions they must make during their countdown to college? Here is some advice from the pros -- a parent who's been through the process and a college admissions counselor.
24 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Starting the Conversation It all starts with a conversation between parent and child. But often the question that starts the conversation is the wrong one, according to Rick Clark, an undergraduate admissions counselor. "Parents ask 'Where do you want to go to college?' "Clark says. The biggest question that parents don't ask or lose sight of is 'Why do you want to go to college?' " That why is important, and should be followed up with questions like "What do you hope to get out of this? What do you want to study? What do you want to do long-term?" says Clark.
Junior Year: Balancing Grades and Activities Grades are crucial during the junior year. Junior year also involves a more challenging track of classes and leadership roles in clubs and activities. It's hard to do it all, so how important are the extracurricular activities? It depends on the student and the college. "At one of my children's colleges, extracurricular activities were really important," Fain said. "At the other one, they didn’t' matter as much." Clark says one out of every four students who apply to the school where he works are accepted.
Freshman Year: The Importance of Academics
"Most students that apply have good test scores, good grades and good courses. Then the review committee asks 'Is this kid a good fit for us?'"
Rachael Fain, a mom of three, stresses the importance of the GPA during freshman year. Fain's daughter, Hannah, graduated from college in 2017. Fain also has two sons, Matthew, who graduated from college in 2020, and Andrew, a college senior. "My children started taking high school classes in eighth grade," Fain says. "A GPA is harder to bring up in junior and senior year, so our goal their eighth and ninth grade years was to keep their GPAs high."
Clark says they look for students who are innovative or who are entrepreneurs, and they ask "How does this student use their time?"
The freshman year is also important for getting on a challenging track of classes. "Course choice is important," Clark says. "Math in particular is something students need to pay attention to."
Taking challenging classes in high school helped Fain's son Matthew make his college decision. He decided to pursue his degree at the University where he took dual credit courses when he was in high school. Andrew also took dual credit courses in high school to lighten his load once he got to college. That worked out well when Covid hit and Andrew took a semester off, but did not fall behind in his course work.
Sophomore Year: Getting to Know You
"If they are a good student who goes home and plays video games, what will they contribute to the school?" Clark says. But it stands out if students are responsible, if they work a job or if they make an impact some way.
Senior Year: Find Your Fit
Clark says the most important thing about making a college decision is finding a good fit. "Fit doesn't really mean can the student do the work, but are they aligned well to the school." For example, Clark says two universities can look the same on paper. A student will apply to each with the same grades and same test scores and get accepted to one and not the other. "That is what fit is," Clark says. "How a student fits with a school, not just from an academic standpoint." If you and your child do not agree on the same school, Clark says how you approach the topic may resolve a lot of conflict over the situation. "Continue to tell your kids you love them, and that no matter where they go to college, it will be great."
Tenth grade is a good year for self-reflection. Students can take personality tests and the PSAT to figure out their The good news is that there are many schools across the strengths and weaknesses. They can also start thinking country and It can be anything from fashion and beauty to travel and theprobably news. more than one of them will match about the kind and size of school they want to attend. your student's personality and academic standing. Understanding what they are good at will help high school students be realistic about the school that is the best fit for them.
"If you or your child feels overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remember there is a school for every student," says Fain.
25 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Countdown to College Checklist: A Timeline That Will Take You Places Preparing for college can be overwhelming for high school students and their parents because of the many steps it takes to get an acceptance letter. But breaking the college to-do list into manageable steps for each year of high school makes the process less stressful and teaches students responsibility, the very thing they will need for what they want to achieve -- a college education. Follow this step-by-step guide for a smoother countdown to college.
Freshman Year
1. Talk to your parents and guidance counselor at the beginning of the year to set goals. 2. Take the most challenging courses available to you. 3. Make good grades. 4. Try a variety of activities. 5. Take advantage of opportunities to visit college campuses when you travel.
Sophomore Year
1. Visit college and career fairs. If you are social distancing, schedule virtual tours of colleges of interest or consider self-guided tours on campuses. Check out updated health and masking guidance at schools you visit in person. 2. Build your resume. Make a list of awards, accomplishments, and activities. 3. Take the PSAT for practice (you can take it your sophomore and junior year, but it won't count until you are a junior). 4. Start studying for the ACT and SAT. There are many test prep guides available online and in book form. 5. Assess your strengths and weaknesses and take a personality inventory. 6. Research possible careers. 7. During the summer begin researching colleges that might be a good fit.
Junior Year
1. Take the PSAT. 2. Accept leadership roles in the activities that suit you best. 3. Narrow your list of possible careers. 4. Narrow your list of possible colleges. 5. Take the ACT and SAT. 6. During the summer volunteer or find an internship or job related to your future career. 7. Write a college entrance essay draft. Have it critiqued by a guidance counselor or teacher.
Senior Year
1. Narrow your college search to six to eight schools. 2. Post all important deadline dates on a wall calendar. 3. Retake the ACT or SAT if needed. 4. Polish your resume. 5. Ask for teacher recommendations. 6. Visit the colleges you are applying to. 7. Send out all your college applications. 8. After you receive your acceptance letters, compare scholarship and financial aid packages and make your final decision. 9. Notify all the schools you were accepted to of your decision. 10. Celebrate the beginning of a new timeline at college!
26 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
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WHERE LEARNING BECOME LEADING
2700 W Sam Houston Pkwy N | Houston, Texas 77043 | 713-580-6000 | www.houstonchristian.org 27 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
ADVENTUROUS APPROACH TO EDUCATION
Exploring Learning Styles To Enrich Your Child's Life As Well As Your Own BY CHRISTINA KATZ
School should be an adventure in learning, and so should life. But if you have not taken the time to observe how your child learns best, your child might be struggling unnecessarily in school.
photo by pop of color photo / amy garrett 28 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
You don't have to go get tested to find out what kind of learners are living in your house. Identifying prominent learning
You simply have to be willing to reflect on what makes each of you tick. Where do you see a
styles in children is crucial in
family member leaning in and where do you see a family member leaning out? This is usually
helping them identify their
enough information to help you experiment with learning styles and see how they benefit
strengths and overcome their
each member of the family.
weaknesses as they progress into a more diverse spectrum
Under each category below, I've listed approaches for test-driving each type of learning
of courses grade after grade.
style. Why not invite the whole family to explore their learning styles and report back on
We often needlessly separate
what they discover? You'll learn things about yourselves and each other that will make your
creativity from learning. But
adventures in life and learning more enjoyable.
when parents help children
Visual
understand their dominant learning styles, they can both use the knowledge to improve a child's experiences, not only in school, but also in life. Most people use a combination of learning styles. Do you know yours? Generally speaking, there are six types of learning styles you want to explore: visual, auditory, verbal, kinesthetic, tactile, and logical. Knowing my own learning styles helps me become a better lifelong learner and a better learning coach for my child. You might think that your children will possess the same proclivities as you, but even though there may be some overlap, each person's learning style is uniquely their
Draw pictures, doodle or color. List both sides of an argument. Make a mind-map on paper to spoke off associated words or ideas. Draw the shape of your idea or consult a chart or a graph. Use flashcards for memorizing. Make a lesson into a comic strip. Search for and read fun, visual blogs. Research topics on Pinterest with an eye out for colorful infographics. Watch videos with a steady stream of images or drawings. Do something visual like playing a video game or flipping through a magazine as a break from learning.
Auditory Use music in the background while learning. Read work out loud into a recorder or to the dog. Listen to lectures or stories in audio format. Write down what you notice as you listen or after you listen. Listen to yourself read out loud. Listen to the opinions of others to help sharpen your point of view. Enjoy discussion, dialogue and debating. Turn what you are learning into a rhyming poem or song lyrics. Listen to some upbeat or moving music while taking a break from learning.
own. For example, my daughter seems more visual than me and more auditory, is likely equally kinesthetic, but maybe not quite as verbal. Logic and tactile probably fall lower on both our lists, whereas her dad, my husband, likely dominates these last two learning categories in our home, as well as being highly visual and auditory.
Verbal Read up on topics of interest, highlighting any points to remember. Look up word definitions to spark ideas. Write out thoughts and rewrite thoughts to clarify what you think. Talk through your thoughts with another person. Build an argument on an opinion you feel strongly about. Play with acronyms (make up a story using every letter in one word as the first letter in a part of the story). Turn written words into spoken words and vice-versa to increase memorization. Play with verbal forms such as stories, poetry, articles, lists, commercials, etc. Immerse yourself in reading as a break from learning. 29 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Kinesthetic Physically act out ideas you are trying to understand. Play all the parts. Draw your ideas out on large sheets of paper or on a whiteboard. Memorize information while in you are in motion. Use story boarding techniques. Get outside and get your hands dirty to integrate thinking. Engage in pantomime or improv. Teach other students what you've learned. Use your whole body for learning as with dance or theater. Take frequent breaks when sitting for long periods to stretch or move. Clear your mind by going for a walk or a run or by doing chores.
Tactile Incorporate art projects into your assignments. Pull together a bunch of seemingly disparate parts into a collage or sculpture. Build an argument the way you would build a log cabin. Create a 3-d visual representation of lessons. Use flashcards for memorizing. Keep your hands and fingers moving while learning. Trace words or images to help you study. Watch video demonstrations for greater understanding. Work with clay, putty, or dough when stuck or integrating ideas. Take frequent breaks to stretch or move when sitting for long periods. Build a model or bake some cookies as a break from learning.
Logical Notice patterns in whatever you are studying. Classify or categorize things. Break information out into small chunks. Use if/then or if/when statements. Set goals and track your progress. Make a to-do list. Use examples, stats, and research. Pose a word problem and solve it. Use a spreadsheet to track progress. Appreciate timelines, diagram, and flowcharts. Tidy or organize things as a break from learning. Play word games like crossword puzzles or word search puzzles. Keep a jigsaw puzzle going for relaxation. 30 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
BACK TO SCHOOL!
Now accepting applications! Apply at: www.sttheresaschool.cc/admissions-process
Shop books, learning games, puzzles, and more.
Educating students from Pre-K to 8th grade since 1947
14532 Memorial Drive www.bluewillowbookshop.com
For more information contact Kelly McCarty, Admissions Director
k.mccarty@sttheresa.cc | 346-335-1706
@bluewillowbooks
Over 30 Years of Excellence in Education SLCS serves students in PreK-8th grade and is conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, TX. Twice recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of excellence. Educating the Whole Christian Person in Body, Mind and Spirit Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence in Education Come tour our campus and see what makes SLCS a leader in providing a well-rounded education!
Learn more at
www.stlaurenceschool.org
WHERE CHILDREN LOVE, LEARN & LEAD In this hurry-up world, The Branch School offers a culture of loving kindness, where accomplished educators help children develop as inquisitive scholars and kind people with authentic regard for one another and our world. Our STEAM-infused, project-based curriculum taps students’ creative energy for deep and lasting learning. Sharing His Vision. Teaching His Values.
Contact the Admissions Office Today admissions@stannecs.org or 713.526.3279
Schedule Your Visit Today! thebranchschool.org
www.stannecs.org 31 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
1424 Sherwood Forest Houston, TX 77043 713.465.0288
Volunteer Wisdom: 7 Ways To Be A School Helper Without Losing Your Balance By Christina Katz
E
very parent has been there. You are attending a parent meeting for your child's class, sport or activity, and here it comes-the pitch to pull in parents to volunteer. If you are shy, your palms may start to sweat. If you are feeling busy, you might have a knee-jerk no-can-do response. If you have had a recent bad volunteer experience, you may be thinking, never again. But you are informed and you know about all those studies that say children of involved parents enjoy school more, make friends more easily, and experience increased academic success. So, doggone it, what's a reluctant parent to do when asked to volunteer at school for the umpteenth time?
Start Small & Increase Involvement Over Time There is something to be said for understanding the lay of the land before you make a commitment. So rather than jumping in with both feet, why not dip in a toe and get a better sense of who does what? Chances are good, if you pitch in a little, you'll notice not-too-taxing ways you can give more next time. Let a coordinator know at the end of one volunteer cycle if you have your eye on a specific role next time. Or simply indicate that you'd like to become more involved.
32 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Know Strengths & Acknowledge Weaknesses. Whenever I bring my natural skills into the volunteer process, I feel more confident and empowered to make good things happen and I get work done quickly and cheerfully. So try to align what you are already good at or passionate about with volunteer commitments. You don't need to explain your strengths and weaknesses, you can simply make wiser decisions about how to contribute if you examine your skills first. For example, if volunteer coordinating gives you headaches, take a behind-the-scenes role, if that's where you can excel.
Step Up And Offer Your Spectrum Of Skills. Sometimes school organizations have job descriptions to fill but these roles are seldom written in ink. So have a conversation with volunteer coordinators about what you can contribute and how much time you have to offer. If you can see yourself succeeding at an offered task, say yes. If you cannot, ask for another assignment. If asked to do something you think you cannot pull off, the onus is on you to take a pass. Trust that someone else will step up. This is no time to try to please the coordinator or impress other parents.
Create A Calendar Of Manageable Commitments. Once you make a commitment to volunteer, call a family meeting and discuss how your plans will affect the family. Will you be away from home on Wednesday nights, need someone to pick up your after-school carpool or want your mate to pick up dinner on the way home? These are all good things to anticipate in advance, as much as possible. If you have more than one child, be mindful of over-committing to too many volunteer responsibilities all at once. Let coordinators know what times of year you are available for each child to avoid accidental overlap.
Be Flexible And Expect The Unexpected. Don't be surprised if the volunteer commitment you expected to be a cakewalk turns out to be full of unanticipated challenges. If you were in charge, things might be different, but chances are good, you are not the boss but rather a helper. Volunteering is a great opportunity to flex skills like your ability to collaborate, trouble-shooting on-the-spot and not sweating the small stuff. Your goal is to suit up, show up, do your best, and walk out the door feeling good about what you contributed.
Raise Money Even If You Cannot Donate. Your time and energy are like gold to any organizer, so if that is what you are contributing, let it be enough. If you don't have time or energy to offer, maybe you can open up your wallet and make a financial contribution. You don't have to offer your own money, if you have a network of friends, colleagues or local businesses you know who might wish to donate. If you are not comfortable in a fundraising role, make referrals to volunteers who excel at the job. Everyone will be grateful if any of your leads lean in.
Ask For Help If Hardships Crop Up. Life happens. Despite our best intentions, sometimes a pet gets injured, a child becomes ill or a spouse has a career setback. When we put our family's needs first, we may not be able to fulfill our volunteer commitments as we'd hoped. All is not lost if you can communicate your limitations as soon as possible, rather than kidding yourself that you can still pull off everything with a flourish and a smile. If you can't complete your assignments for whatever reason, speak up, ask for help, and graciously hand over responsibilities to folks who step up.
3 Helpful Volunteer Tools: Google Docs A universal platform for sharing information
Doodle Poll This is an easy tool for taking a poll
33 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Sign-up Genius For coordinating timeslot signups
DISCOVER SEASIDE ELEGANCE:
FT. LAUDERDALE
Fort Lauderdale: A sun-drenched coastal city in Southern Florida, along the Atlantic Ocean, is shedding its reputation of solely being a spring break party destination for college students and emerging as a refined, cultural, and wholesome destination for families. Renovated waterfronts, palm-lined golden beaches, picturesque waterways, seaside cafés, museums, and historic homes all add to the charm of Fort Lauderdale.
AT THE PELICAN GRAND BEACH RESORT
Where to stay: With so many newly renovated hotels and condominium options, selecting the perfect place for families to enjoy a relaxing vacation can be challenging.
By Amy Garrett Photographs by Amy Garrett
Perfectly positioned away from the crowds, the Pelican Grand Beach Resort is a luxurious beachfront hideaway where old Florida grandeur meets seaside elegance. The unrivaled location and amenities make the Pelican Grand Beach Resort the perfect choice for families.
TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT
A $7 million renovation in 2019 resulted in 144 spacious, light, and airy rooms with coastal chic and boho inspired decor finishes, large sweeping balconies, and wellappointed bathrooms. Parents of young children will enjoy the large showers with pull-down shower sprayer NOMADIC | 24 to wash sandy toes. 34 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
Magnificent Pool: The true treasure of the Pelican Grand Beach Resort, in addition to the spectacular view, is the outdoor patio area boasting a massive verandah, lined with white rocking chairs, leading to a zero-entry ocean front pool and Fort Lauderdale’s ONLY lazy river.
Trending
Grab an inner tube and float under graceful palms while listening to the rhythmic sound of lapping waves against the shoreline and breathe in the fragrant, cool sea breeze for a truly relaxing experience. For guests looking for a more active scene, an oceanfront fitness center and paddle boarding are available on property. Kids of all ages will love the scavenger hunts and seasonal events offered at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort as well. Dining: There’s no need to leave the resort in search of fabulous cuisine. At OCEAN2000, guests can choose from a seafood centric, contemporary American menu with organic ingredients and local produce while enjoying spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Dine outside on the verandah or discover a truly unique experience and dine under the stars with tables atop rolling sand dunes with the toesIn-sand dining option. O2K lounge is a casual eatery for light bites and cocktails overlooking the ocean front pool and lazy river. Guest favorites include fish tacos and wagyu beef sliders.
Discover Ft. Lauderdale: One absolute must do with the entire family while in Fort Lauderdale is the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS). With 150,000 ft² of dynamic science exhibits, learning labs, live animals, an outdoor interactive science park, and an IMAX 3-D theater, it’s no wonder 425,000 people visit annually. If fortunate enough to travel in the summer months, be sure to buy tickets for the MODS offered night sea turtle walks. This once in a lifetime experience allows a small group of guests to accompany an expert guide to possibly witness a sea turtle nesting on a local Fort Lauderdale beach. A truly magical experience that you won’t soon forget. Plan ahead because these experiences sell out quickly. A short distance from the Pelican Grand Beach Resort is the Bonnet House. A 3.5-acre beachfront historic home, turned museum, perfectly preserved in the 1930-40s era with lush tropical gardens. Built in 1920, it’s an extraordinary blend of architecture history, nature, and art. Kids will love searching for monkeys in the trees or other wildlife in the expansive gardens. With so many spectacular things to do and see, it’s easy to recognize why so many families are choosing Fort Lauderdale for their family vacations.
Not to be missed and a favorite hang out with locals and guests alike is The Emporium. A 1950s inspired ice cream shop featuring sundaes, shakes, banana splits, and gourmet bakery items that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort 2000 North Ocean Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 www.pelicanbeach.com/ 35 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S
the big to do
the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S
August 1st marks the start of the countdown to the “1st Day of School”! While many of us are celebrating a little on the inside, the lazy days of summer can still be enjoyed by finding all there is to see, do and love.
Photographer: Holly Young Photography
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.
MONDAY 1 Live Music Mondays Enjoy Live Music Mondays at IPC to kick start your week. Come support local musicians and have a good time with friends. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ live-music-mondays/ Island Pier Club, Galveston 7-10pm. All ages
Houston Shakespeare Festival: King Lear King Lear, in dividing his estate, disowns the wrong child. Family loyalty, betrayal, and madness set the stage for King Lear—the first Houston Shakespeare Festival production of this enthralling masterpiece in over 20 years. https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/ Miller outdoor theatre 8:15pm. Age: 13+
TUESDAY 2 Reading and Book Signing event: Husband Material Come by Blue Willow Bookshop and Alexis Hall will appear to discuss his new novel Husband Material. www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Blue Willow Bookshop 7pm. Age: Adult. In order to go through the signing line and meet the authors for book personalization, please purchase the book from Blue Willow Bookshop.
Martini Theater “Summer Break” Movie Series: Back to the Future Martini Theater presents an all new “Summer Break” movie series at Daquiri Time Out (2701 Market Street) every Tuesday night at sundown. Win free drinks at movie trivia! https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/
martini-theater-summer-break-movieseries-1/ 2701 Market St., Galveston 8:30pm. Age: 21+
Houston Shakespeare Festival: Cymbeline Shakespeare’s dark fairytale romance, Cymbeline, tells the tale of a hopeful princess Imogen and her banished secret husband, plus her wicked stepmother, her goofball step-brother, and her powerful father, King Cymbeline. https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/ Miller Outdoor Theatre 8:15pm. Age: 13+
Family Storytime & Craft Come to the park for a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime features a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.
36 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
https://www.levyparkhouston.org/ Levy Park 10am. All ages
Baby Talk: Splish, Splash Storytime goes outdoors (weather permitting, otherwise we’re in the Randall Room)! https://rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 9:30am. Recommended for 0-24 months.
Summer Band Concerts: Galveston Beach Band Galveston Beach Band concerts are a diverse mix of much-loved show tunes, big band numbers, jazz and more. https://rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library. Sealy Pavilion & Moody Northern Plaza 7:30pm. All ages
August 2022 WEDNESDAY 3 Storytime: Oceans Ahoy! Surf into the library for a fun, engaging program featuring storytelling, music, movement and puppets planned to promote early literacy development. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 10:00am. Age: 2-5 years old.
Teen Gaming - Video and Board Games Let’s play board games like Superfight, Pandemic, Settlers of Catan, and Sheriff of Nottingham. Never heard of those? That’s fine - we’ll teach you how it works! Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library. Age: 13+
Cane Island Summer Concert Kick back and relax while listening to live music at Cane Island’s Summer last concert of the season. www.caneisland.com/summer-concert 2100 Cane Island Parkway, Katy 8pm. All ages
Japan Junction Kids of all ages will enjoy expanding their cultural horizons through kamishibai “paper drama” storytelling and fun crafts that highlight Japanese traditions from origami to woodblock print making and more! https://www.levyparkhouston.org/ Levy Park Houston 4:30pm. All ages
THURSDAY 4 Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday. Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
Blue Willow Bookshop Storytime Bring your child to Blue Willow to enjoy stories, songs and an art activity every Thursday. www.bluewillowbookshop.com Blue Willow Bookshop 10am. All ages
Conroe’s First Thursday Market Days Shop Fresh produce and handmade products from local vendors, listen to live music and enjoy an evening outdoors. www.experiencedowntownconroe.com Heritage Place, Downtown Conroe. 500 Metcalf St. 4pm All ages
Chemistry Road Show Explosive experience not to be missed! Send the summer off with a BANG. Dr. Jim Pennington, chemistry professor with
Texas A&M College Station wows the crowd with wild and crazy experiments. https://rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 2:30pm. Age: grades 3-7
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: THE BREAKFAST CLUB Forget about trekking to the theater for your movie fix and head to Market Square Park for a free outdoor screening https://marketsquarepark.com/
Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday. Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
Market Square 8pm. Age:13+
Back to School Splash Bash
Thursdays at The Bryan
Enjoy waterslides, a hula hoop contest, fun activities, and live music all day. Bring the little ones to Toddler Town for ages 0-5! www.sugarlandtownsquare.com
Enjoy a curated selection of wines, enjoy the music of local Galvestonian talent. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ thursdays-at-the-bryan/ The Bryan Museum, 1315 21st Street, Galveston 4-7pm. All ages
FRIDAY 5 Tax Free Weekend Starts August 5-7th 2022. During this annual sales tax holiday, you can buy most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks on your back-toschool shopping list and save on dorm or off-campus necessities.
Chemistry Hands-On Workshop A fabulous opportunity for kids 10 & older to work with Dr. Jim Pennington, Chemistry professor from Texas A&M College Station. No previous experience in chemistry required. Rosenberglibrary.org
Sugarland Town Square 11am-3pm All ages
Nature Cubs Club lil’ nature lovers will have a chance to meet other nature lovers, learn about a topic, and then explore the park together! The club meets every first Saturday of the month. www.tpwd.texas.gov Sheldon Lake State Park 11am-noon.Age: 2-5
White Linen Night in the Heights Join the festivities at the 200 and 300 blocks of 19th Street. The street will be packed with art displays, live music, and shopping specials. www.facebook.com/ WhiteLinenNightintheHeights 414 W. 19th St. 5-9pm. All ages
Rosenberg Library, Galveston 11am. Age: elementary age children.
Open Studio: Exploring Identity
Film Screening: Lost Illusions
Hands-on activities to explore imaginative concepts, experiment with new materials, and make new friends on the first Saturday of the month. www.camh.org
In 19th-century Paris, an idealistic young poet encounters an unexpected side to the business of journalism. www.mfah.org museum of fine arts Houston 7pm. Age: 13+
Gorilla Encounter every Friday Step into a real tree house and get a up close view of a gorilla’s world. Spend time feeding and interacting with one of the greatest apes all while learning about how our global partners are protecting gorillas in the wild. Houstonzoo.org Houston zoo 10:45-11:30am. All ages. $65/members, $90 nonmembers
SATURDAY 6 Marine Biologist for a Day The perfect way to spend the day for young aspiring marine biologists! www.aquariumrestaurants.com/ downtownaquariumhouston/calendar. asp#7 Houston Aquarium downtown All day. Age: 7+
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston 2-4pm All ages
Open Studio: Make your own mark Inspired by the brushwork and finger-painted strokes in Amoako Boafo’s portraits, create a self-portrait exploring mark making techniques using markers, pencils, and paint. www.camh.org Contemporary Arts Museum Houston 2-4pm All ages
George Hermann’s 179th Birthday Party at Hermann Park Head over to Hermann Park dressed like your favorite superhero and help celebrate the park’s namesake George Hermann. There will be carnival games, arts and crafts, and free face painting. Birthday cake will be served from 11am2pm. www.hermannpark.org Hermann Park Conservancy 10am-2pm All ages, not all activities are free, so please remember to verify.
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FREE DAYS IN THE HOUSTON MUSEUM DISTRICT EVERY THURSDAY, MANY OF HOUSTON’S MUSEUMS OFFER FREE ADMISSION. Children’s Museum of Houston 5-8pm • 1500 Binz St. www.cmhouston.org **FREE Admission for Bank of America cardholders the first FULL weekend of the month.
Health Museum 2-7pm • 1515 Hermann Dr. www.thehealthmuseum.org
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 10am-9pm • 1001 Bissonnet www.mfah.org **FREE MFAH admission Saturdays & Sundays for all kids 18 & under with a library card
Houston Museum of Natural Science 2-5pm • 5555 Hermann Park Dr. www.hmns.org
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 1-5pm • 3816 Caroline St. www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com
Houston Museum of African American Culture 6-8pm • 4807 Caroline St. www.hmaac.org
FREE SUNDAYS Holocaust Museum Houston 2-5pm • 9220 Kirby Dr., ste. 100 www.hmh.org
FREE WEDNESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY Menil Collection 11am-7pm • 1533 Sul Ross Street www.menil.org
FREE THURSDAY WITH RESERVATION Cistern History Tours, Houston 1-5:30pm • The Water Works at 105 Sabine Street • Age: 9+ www.buffalobayou.org
FREE TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Tuesday-Friday 10am-7pm, Sat.10am-6pm, Sun. 12-6pm • 5216 Montrose Boulevard www.camh.org
the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S C E N T E R S TA G E | T H E AT E R & P E R F O R M I N G A R T S
Woodland’s farmers market at Grogan’s mill Find fresh seasonal vegetables from local farms as well as farm fresh eggs, meats, cheese, coffee, honey, prepared foods and organic products. www.grogansmill.org Grogan’s Mill, Woodlands 8am-noon. All ages
Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours Join the Bucket Brigade in exploring the creatures and features that make Galveston beaches unique! https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ bucket-brigade-interpretive-beachtours/
CLUE Alley Theater, Through August 28th
ALLEY THEATRE
Clue
It’s a dark and stormy night, and you’ve been invited to a dinner party. Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget www.alleytheatre.org Through August 28
AD PLAYERS
The Sound of Music
Iconic american musical that follows the story of free-spirited young maria as she finds her place, purpose, and love within the home of the von trapp family. www.adplayers.org/sound-of-music Through August 14
HOUSTON SYMPHONY
Celebrating 75 years of India’s Independence
Join us at The Hobby Center for a special performance celebrating 75 years of Indian independence, featuring violin icon Dr. L. Subramaniam and vocalist Kavita Krishnamurti. www.houstonsymphony.org Jones Hall August 6
MAIN STREET THEATER
The Real Inspector Hound Attending the premiere of a new murder mystery, two feuding theater critics soon find themselves drawn into the play-within-a-play! In the hilarious spoof of Agatha Christie-style mysteries that follows, the mists roll in around isolated Muldoon Manor, and the critics become implicated in the lethal activities of an escaped madman. It’s brilliant comedy as only Tom Stoppard can do! https://mainstreettheater.com/the-realinspector-hound/
STAGES
DREAM: THE MUSIC OF THE EVERLY BROTHERS One of the first ten artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Everly Brothers were pioneers of country rock, known for tight harmonies and steel-string acoustic guitar. www.stagestheatre.com Stages Repertory Theatre Through September 4
THE GRAND
Bandella
Get ready for a performance that’s truly out of this world! What happens when three musicians and former NASA Astronauts team up with a keyboardist and a vocalist? You get Bandella! https://www.thegrand.com/ The Grand 1894 Opera House August 6
MONDAY 8 Playtime at The Joe Turner Nature Center Every Sunday afternoon, enjoy nature and different activity planned to get you and your family involved. From birds to archery, to everything in between. www.houstonparks.org 2-3pm All ages
Enjoy the Rides on the Pier Take the family out for some waterfront fun and entertainment and enjoy attractions including rides, and midway games. www.pleasurepier.com
East Beach, Galveston 11am-3:45pm. All ages
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier 11am-11pm All ages, $19.99+
Professional Sandcastle Building Lessons
Live Music Mondays
Attention budding builders – sandcastle builders, that is. Galveston is hosting a free, family-friendly event to help beachgoers create spectacular sandcastles with guidance from a pro. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ free-professional-sandcastle-buildinglessons-1/ East Beach, Galveston 1aam-3pm. All ages
Movie Nite on The Strand: The Golden Compass Saengerfest Park event invites families to enjoy a series of beloved movies under the stars. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ movie-nite-on-the-strand/ Saengerfest Park, Galveston 8:30pm. All ages
SUNDAY 7 Family Zone on the Go Enjoy hands-on activities at the Family Art Cart in the galleries, with staff members on hand to answer questions. https://www.mfah.org/
ROBERT EARL KEEN
Museum of Fine Arts Houston 1pm. All ages
Legendary Texas songwriter and entertainer Robert Earl Keen wraps up 41 years on the road with his 2022 Final Tour, I’m Comin’ Home: 41 Years On The Road. https://www.thegrand.com/
Sunday Morning Hikes
The Grand 1894 Opera House August 19
Lake Houston Wilderness Park 10am All ages
Come take a stroll with the Lake Houston Naturalist crew every Sunday. Meeting point is at the Nature Center. www.houstontx.gov
Galápagos Tortoise Encounters every Sunday and Tuesday Come and see these giant, slow-motion reptiles. Pro tip: Feet are friends, not food. Our tortoises might confuse red shoes for treats, so it’s best to leave your red shoes at home for this one (yes, we’re serious). Closed-toe shoes are required. Houstonzoo.org Houston Zoo 10am. All ages. Tickets $65/member $90 non-members
Through August 13, 2022
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Enjoy Live Music Mondays at IPC to kick start your week. Come support local musicians and have a good time with friends. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ live-music-mondays/ Island Pier Club, Galveston 7-10pm. All ages
TUESDAY 9 Baby Talk: Luau Dance Party Let’s party island style while sharing music, fingerplays, simple stories, puppets and early literacy tips. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 9:30am. Age: 0-24 months.
Beginner’s Calligraphy (via Zoom) Join the talented Kristina Mosbo for a beginner’s class on the ancient art of calligraphy! If this is your first class, please contact Melinda Pleasant to schedule a time to pick up your supply kit. Rosenberglibrary.org
Rosenberg Library 4:30pm. Age: adult. Please contact Melinda Pleasant if this is your first class to pick up your kit. (409) 763-8854 ext. 141. mpleasant@rosenberg-library.org
Family Storytime & Craft Come to the park for a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime features a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included. https://www.levyparkhouston.org/ Levy Park 10am. All ages
Reading and Book Signing event: Wild is the Witch Come by Blue Willow Bookshop to meet Rachel Griffin and celebrate her new book, Wild is the Witch. Rachel will appear in conversation with author J. Elle. This event will also be streamed live via a Zoom webinar. www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Blue Willow Bookshop 7pm . Age: Adult. In order to go through the signing line and meet the authors for book personalization, please purchase the book from Blue Willow Bookshop.
August 2022 WEDNESDAY 10 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. www.naturediscoverycenter.org Nature Discovery Center Tues.-Fri. Noon-5:30pm, Sat.-Sun. 10am530pm, story time Wednesday at 4pm All ages
Reading and Book Signing event: Properties of Thirst Marianne Wiggins will appear in conversation with Valerie Koehler to launch her new novel Properties of Thirst. www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Blue Willow Bookshop 7pm . Age: Adult. In order to go through the signing line and meet the authors for book personalization, please purchase the book from Blue Willow Bookshop.
Homestead Open House Enjoy a look around the park’s historically accurate 1830s Redbud Hill Homestead and Akokisa-Ishak Village. Learn about two very ways of life. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays. www.hcp4.net Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center 1-4pm. All ages
Lunch and Learn: Beekeeping 101 Want to know what the buzz is all about? Join us during your lunch hour to learn why bees are so important to human survival. You will also have a chance to view Architecture Center Houston’s current exhibition Architecture of Bees. https://buffalobayou.org/event/lunchand-learn-beekeeping-101/ Buffalo Bayou Noon. All ages. $5-$25
THURSDAY 11 Story Fair: Wonderful World of Water with Arts Alive! Children have the opportunity to joyfully move their bodies, handle interactive props and embark on a journey of the imagination. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 10am. Age: 2-5
Throwback Thursday Movie Series: Home Alone It’s the summer Throwback Thursday Movie Series! If you’re looking for 80’s and 90’s movies, you’re in the right place. Popcorn/snacks + soda will be available. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 2pm. Age: 13-18
Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday.
Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building. https://www.mfah.org/
NOW EXHIBITING | MUSEUM CALENDAR
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
Film Screening: Blackalachia Shot in the Appalachians near Sumney’s home in Asheville, North Carolina during lockdown in 2020, the film was created to harness and celebrate the powerful intersection of nature, music, dance, and cinematography. https://camh.org/
Lone Star Flight Museum photo by cici loo photography
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston 6pm. Age: 13+
Fly in for Storytime Enjoy family story time featuring an aviation themed book every Thursday. www.lonestarflight.org Lone Star Flight Museum 9:30am Age:4-7 Price: $5 / family of four
Reading and Book Signing event: Hummingbird Share the excitement in welcoming Natalie Lloyd to the shop to celebrate her new book, Hummingbird. www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Blue Willow Bookshop 7pm . Age: Adult. In order to go through the signing line and meet the authors for book personalization, please purchase the book from Blue Willow Bookshop.
Glow Ride City Lights, Summer Nights & Glowing, Beach Cruisers. Each month a different route is picked. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ glow-ride/ meeting point is at the Island bike company, Galveston 6:30pm. All ages
Samba Dance Class Learn a popular Brazilian dance style during this exciting class. Samba is a partner dance from Rio de Janeiro that evolved as a ballroom dance to the Brazilian samba musical rhythms. https://midtownhouston.com/ Midtown Park 7-9pm. Age: 16+
FRIDAY 12 Movie Screening: The Girl and the Spider An emotional roller coaster is set in motion when a young woman’s roommate prepares to move out of their apartment. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 7pm. All ages
Toddler Roller Skating Come skate with your little one at the Dairy Ashford Roller Rink. www.skatedairyashford.com
Dairy Ashford Roller Rink, Houston 10am-12pm Age: under 7 only, $5 for children and includes skate rental
CONTEMPORARY ARTS MUSEUM HOUSTON
www.camh.org
Hours: Tues-Sat. 10am-5pm. Sun. 12pm5pm. Closed on Monday Admission: free
Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks Working primarily in portraiture, Boafo is known for his vibrant use of color and thick, improvisational gestures created by his fingerpainting technique. His work is actively centered on Black subjectivity, Black joy, and the Black gaze. Through October 2, 2022
THE HEALTH MUSEUM
www.thehealthmuseum.org Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm., Thurs. 9am7pm., Sun. 12-5pm Admission: $10 adult, $8 senior 65+, free for children under 2 FREE on Thursdays 2-7pm
DeBakey Cell Lab Gear up with a lab coat, gloves and goggles and travel through experiment stations. Permanent Exhibition
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM
hmh.org
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm., Sat. 10am5pm., Sun. 12-5pm
Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers The Gallery is personalized with testimony of Holocaust Survivors who later settled in the Houston area. These incredible individuals lived through a genocidal war that inflicted mass death on unprecedented numbers of innocent civilians. Permanent Exhibition
LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM
www.lonestarflight.org
Hours: Tues-Sat. 10am-5pm. Sun. 12pm5pm. Closed on Monday Admission: $18 adult, $15 students, $12 child 4-12.
The Texas Aviation Heritage Gallery A chronological walk through the history of aviation in Texas. Permanent Exhibition
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MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS HOUSTON
mfah.org
Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm., Thurs. 10am-9pm., Fri.-Sat. 10am-7pm., Sun. 12:15-7pm. $15 adult; $10 senior 65+, $7.50 children 13-18 and students (19+) (children 12 and under free).
Leandro Erlich: Seeing Is Not Believing These immersive, room-size environments and a selection of additional works span the career of this acclaimed Argentine artist, whose psychological subversion of the everyday seems to defy the basic laws of physics. Through September 5, 2022
Virtual Realities: The Art of M.C. Escher from the Michael S. Sachs Collection Virtual Realities features more than 400 prints, drawings, watercolors, printed fabrics, constructed objects, wood and linoleum blocks, lithographic stones, sketchbooks, and the artist’s working tools. Through September 5, 2022
HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE
www.hmns.org
9am-5pm Mon-Sun $25 adult, $15 children 3-11, senior 62+ and college students FREE every Thursday 2-5pm
Transcending Audubon Rex Brasher’s Inspiration: Transcending Audubon features 29 framed works by artist Rex Brasher, a wildlife artist committed to painting all of the birds of North America in their natural habitat. Through October 10, 2022
Beauty and Ritual: Judaica from the Jewish Museum, New York Beauty and Ritual explores the artistic, ritualistic, and cultural significance of more than 140 works. The objects on view derive from Jewish communities throughout the world. Through September 18, 2022
the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S SATURDAY 13 Work on the Wild Side The perfect way to spend the day for teens. https://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/ downtownaquariumhouston/calendar. asp#7 Houston Aquarium downtown All day. Age: 15+
Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday. Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
Movie Under the Moon: Luca Bring your family, friends, and lawn chairs to the Plaza to enjoy a free Movie Under the Moon! This month’s showing is Disney’s Luca! https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ Sugarland Town Square 8:30pm. All ages
Movie Screening: A League of Their Own Geena Davis, Tom Hanks, and Madonna star in the story of an all-female pro baseball team during World War II. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 2pm. All ages
Family Day at The Ocean Star: Needle through a Balloon Each Family Day focuses on a different theme that relates to the offshore industry. www.oceanstaroec.com/museum
Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum, Pier 21 - Galveston 10am - 3pm. All ages. Price: Free on the second Saturday of every month for children, $6 adult
2nd Saturday at the Depot From themed arts and crafts to games, music and a movie under the stars on the giant inflatable screen, 2nd
Saturday is fun for the entire family. www.ci.tomball.tx.us/596/2nd-Saturdayat-the-Depot Historic Tomball Depot, Tomball 6pm. All ages
Buffalo Bayou Volunteer Day Get your gloves out to help maintain and revitalize Buffalo Bayou this summer while having fun. No tools necessary. www.buffalobayou.org
The Water Works. 105 Sabine St., Houston. 8:30-11:30am Age: +10 Just sign up and complete the required online volunteer waiver
Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours Join the Bucket Brigade in exploring the creatures and features that make Galveston beaches unique! https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ bucket-brigade-interpretive-beach-tours/ East Beach, Galveston 11am-3:45pm. All ages
Music Nite on The Strand: The Octanes (Rockabilly) Get a taste of Galveston’s thriving local music scene with this free live concert series at Saengerfest Park. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ music-nite-on-the-strand/ 2302 Strand St., Galveston 6pm. All ages
Incredible India: A Cultural Kaleidescope Come, join our knowledgeable Guide Surender Talwar, as he takes you on an exciting cultural journey through regions of India that have a rich artistic heritage. https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/ Miller Outdoor theatre 8:30pm. All ages
SUNDAY 14 MFAH on the Move: Bilingual Zumba Meet up at the Museum for free Zumba on Sunday morning with FitMix Communities. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 11am. All ages
MONDAY 15 Twilight Safari: Early Explorers
Explore HMNS
While the sun might have set, the adventures have just begun. Gather your family and head to the Zoo after hours for this unique experience. Join the zoon’s Education staff on a night tour of and see what the animals are up to when the lights go out. This two-hour,
onsite program is designed for families with younger children. https://www.houstonzoo.org/makememories/kids-families/family-natureexperiences/ Houston Zoo Sundown. Age: under 10
Live Music Mondays Enjoy Live Music Mondays at IPC to kick start your week. Come support local musicians and have a good time with friends. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ live-music-mondays/ Island Pier Club, Galveston 7-10pm. All ages
TUESDAY 16 Tarot Cards: Their History and Use with Kristina Mosbo (via Zoom) Join us on Zoom as Kristina Mosbo teaches us about the history and use of Tarot cards! Learn how to read the Rider Waite Smith tarot. If this is your first class, please contact Melinda Pleasant to schedule a time to pick up your supply kit. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 4:30pm. Age: adult. (409) 763-8854 ext. 141. mpleasant@rosenberg-library.org
Family Storytime & Craft Come to the park for a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime features a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included. https://www.levyparkhouston.org/ Levy Park 10am. All ages
Children’s Storytime Summer Series Enjoy a live musical performance by Andy Roo and Storytime with Houston Public Library. Kids can also enjoy fun games while snacking on yummy treats. https://midtownhouston.com/ Midtown Park 10am. All ages
WEDNESDAY 17 Pirate Academy Bubble Show Bubbles! Learn how to be a Pirate from Captain Kristina and First Mate Anton with magic and illusions. The bubble performance ends with a toilet paper cannon finale. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 10am. All ages
Super Smash Bros. Tournament Do you have what it takes to be the best? Enter our Super Smash Bros. tournament for the Nintendo Switch and find out! REGISTRATION REQUIRED. darcher@rosenberg-library.org Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 2pm. Age: 13-18
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THURSDAY 18 Throwback Thursday Movie Series:The nightmare before Christmas It’s the summer Throwback Thursday Movie Series! If you’re looking for 80’s and 90’s movies, you’re in the right place. Popcorn/snacks + soda will be available. Rosenberglibrary.org Rosenberg Library, Galveston 2pm. Age: 13-18
Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday. Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
Third Thursdays at LaCenterra Come out for an evening of live music and lawn games with friends and family. Located in Heritage Square by Dish Society. www.lacenterra.com/events/ La Centerra at Cinco Ranch 6-8pm All ages
BLANKET BINGO Bring your blanket, lawn chairs or snag one of the tables at the park for a night of fun, music and great prizes! https://marketsquarepark.com/ Market Square 6pm. All ages
FRIDAY 19 Movie Screening: In Front of Your Face (Dangsin-eolgulapeseo) When a former actress returns to South Korea to reconnect with her past, the secret she has been keeping is revealed. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 7pm. All ages
Natural Play and Exploration Area Childhood imagination meets the great outdoors. Games, toys, and even seating are all made from the forest. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center All day. Age: 10 and under
The Purple Experience The Purple Xperience is a five-piece group hailing from Prince’s birthplace, Minneapolis, MN. Milleroutdoortheatre.org Miller Outdoor Theatre 8:15pm. All ages
August 2022 SATURDAY 20 Be a zoologist for the day Young animal lovers will spend the day learning how we care for our creatures that live outside the ocean including Bengal tigers, two-toed sloths, parrots, reptiles, and more! https://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/ downtownaquariumhouston/calendar. asp#7 Houston Aquarium downtown All day. Age: 15+
Saturday Sketching in the Galleries On selected Saturdays, families can explore sketching techniques in the galleries with a teaching artist. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 11:30am. All ages
Ride a Live Steamer If you’ve got a little one into trains, enjoy The Houston Area Live Steamers steam model trains that are big enough to ride. www.hals.org Zube Park 9:00am-1pm. All ages
Mini Maestros Enhance your family’s performing arts experiences. Enjoy free reserved seating at all performing arts events, special opportunities to meet the conductor and artist and much more. www.woodlandscenter.org/minimaestros Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Annual membership All ages
Hike and trail Memorial Park Join the staff on a nature walk to discover the flowers that bloom in the hottest months of the year. www.memorialparkconservancy.org Memorial Park Conservancy All day. Meet at the Cullen Running Trails Center. All ages
35th Annual AIA sandcastle competition Cheer on the teams, stretched along the beach front, who will meticulously sculpt their piles of sand and work non-stop for five hours. www.aiahouston.org East Beach, Galveston 9am-4:30pm. All ages, $15 parking
Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours Join the Bucket Brigade in exploring the creatures and features that make Galveston beaches unique! https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ bucket-brigade-interpretive-beach-tours/ East Beach, Galveston 11am-3:45pm. All ages
Family Capoeira Bring the family for a unique Afro-Brazilian martial art that develops discipline, coordination, strength, and rhythm. Instruction is provided by the Brazilian Cultural Institute and is open to families of all sizes and skill levels.
https://midtownhouston.com/ Midtown Park 10am. All ages
SUNDAY 21 Family Studio at the MFAH Create and learn in this workshop for families. Explore a work of art in the galleries, then make your own masterpiece in the studio. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 1pm. All ages
AIA Sandcastle Viewing & Free Lessons Avoid the crowds & see the amazing sandcastles following the 35th Annual AIA Sandcastle Competition. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ aia-sandcastle-viewing-free-lessons/ East Beach, Galveston 9am-5pm. All ages
MONDAY 22 Bookstore Romance Day 2022 Cathy is the hand-flailing Romance Evangelist at the shop and she LOVES Bookstore Romance Day! Read her essay about bringing more joy into her life through fandoms and reading romance on our blog. And watch this space for some of our favorite romance recommendations from Cathy, Ayah, Christina and more! https://www.bluewillowbookshop.com/ event/bookstore-romance-day-2022 Online. 10am. Age: adult
Barbara Fish Daniel Nature Play Area Let your kids interact with nature. The 1.5-acre play area encompasses a boulder rock scramble, a rolling lawn, a stream and waterfall, climbing logs and stones, and a 33-foot slide. www.buffalobayou.org. Barbara Fish Daniel Nature Play Area 7:00 am – 8:00 pm, Monday – Sunday. Age: 3-7
Live Music Mondays
Sam Houston Boat Tour Take the family on a 90-minute roundtrip, educational tour along the Houston Ship Channel to learn about the maritime industry. www.porthouston.com/sam-houstonboat-tour/ Port Houston Sam Houston Landing, Houston 10am & 2:30pm on select days All ages – Reservations are required.
WEDNESDAY 24 Galveston Artwalk ArtWalk takes place in existing commercial galleries, non-profit arts spaces and “other walls” in restaurants and retail stores to promote visual art and support an arts-based community. www.galveston.com Galveston Arts Center & Other Galleries, 2127 Strand 6-9pm All ages
Waterway Nights Music Series Come with family and friends and bring a picnic dinner, coolers, and chairs while you enjoy live music at the Waterway Fountains. www.woodlandsevents.com Waterway Square, The Woodlands 7-9pm. All ages
THURSDAY 25 Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights
guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday. Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
FRIDAY 26 Family Movie Night: The Michells vs. the Machines End the summer season with Family Movie Night sponsored by Texas Children’s Hospital. Levyparkhouston.org Levy Park 8pm. All ages
Cool Down on the Ice at the Galleria Enjoy freestyle ice skating with friends and family while listening to the latest hits. www.iceatthegalleria.com
Ice Skating at the Galleria 10am-10pm Monday-Saturday. Noon8pm Sunday All ages, $18+ admission and $3+ skate rental
Sea Nature at Sea Center Texas Although small, bring the little ones to enjoy the nature center, aquarium, fish hatchery, and hike the trails. www.tpwd.texas.gov/fishing/sea-centertexas/ Sea Center Texas, Lake Jackson All day. Age: 2-8
On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This
S E E E V E N M O R E FA M I LY F R I E N D LY E V E N T S I N O U R ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR! https://houstonfamilymagazine.com/events-calendar/
Enjoy Live Music Mondays at IPC to kick start your week. Come support local musicians and have a good time with friends. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ live-music-mondays/ Island Pier Club, Galveston 7-10pm. All ages
TUESDAY 23 Family Storytime & Craft Come to the park for a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime features a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included. https://www.levyparkhouston.org/ Levy Park 10am. All ages
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the big to do | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S Movie Screening: Monty Python and the Holy Grail On a surreal, satirical search for the Holy Grail, King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table encounter many silly obstacles. https://www.mfah.org/ Museum of Fine Arts Houston 7pm. All ages
Island Rideout and Bike Expo (aug. 26-28) Join us in Galveston for the biggest ride out in Texas! Three Rides, One Weekend! https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ island-rideout-and-bike-expo/ Meeting point is at Moody Gardens All day. All ages
Yappy Hour Head over to Bagby Park for a summer pool PAW-ty where your doggies can splash around in the cooling pools. With plenty of fenced-¬in outdoor space, dogs can meet new friends, get some exercise, or just chill by the water bowl. https://midtownhouston.com/ Bagby Park 4:30pm. All ages and all god sizes.
SATURDAY 27 Drop-in Tour: European Art Highlights On this guided tour, discover the diversity of objects on view in the newly reinstalled galleries of European art. This guided tour is included with general admission, which is free on Thursday. Meet up with the docent in the lobby of the Beck Building.
SUNDAY 28
https://www.mfah.org/
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 1:30pm. All ages
Theatre District Open House Theatre District Open House is an annual event that marks the kick-off of the Fall performing arts season in Houston. The district features nine performing arts organizations, and smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. www.theaterdistrictopenhouse.com Theater District Venues, downtown Various times. All ages
Bucket Brigade Interpretive Beach Tours Join the Bucket Brigade in exploring the creatures and features that make Galveston beaches unique! https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ bucket-brigade-interpretive-beach-tours/ East Beach, Galveston 11am-3:45pm. All ages
Discovery Walk: Pineywoods Boardwalk Nature Trail Take a guided walk to learn about the plants and wildlife of Lake Livingston State Park every last Saturday of the month. The walk is conducted on the Piney Woods Boardwalk Nature Trail and can be completed in 45 min to 1 hour. www.tpwd.texas.gov Lake Livingston State Park 9-10am. All ages. Free with park admission,13 years and younger free admission
Houston Museum of Natural Science: Science on Stage: Motion Commotion
www.kemahboardwalk.com
Kemah Boardwalk All day and evening. All ages
TUESDAY 30
See Newton’s laws of motion brought to life, through interactive demonstrations allowing the audience to experience practical applications. Find out how levers work, learn why every action has a reaction, and watch the relationship between mass and inertia as you discover the science behind motion in all its forms. Levyparkhouston.org Levy Park 2pm. All ages
Farewell Summer Wonder Week (Aug. 30-Sept. 3)
Play day at Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
Family Storytime & Craft
Hike the nature trails and enjoy the education room inside the visitor center. www.houstonarboretum.org Houston Arboretum and Nature Center Open every day . All ages
MONDAY 29 Live Music Mondays
Soak up the sun and good vibes! Summer is coming to an end. Celebrate the changing season with this fun WonderWeek! https://www.cmhouston.org/events/ farewell-summer-wonderweek Children’s Museum of Houston Different activities planned all day. All ages.
Come to the park for a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime features a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included. https://www.levyparkhouston.org/ Levy Park 10am. All ages
WEDNESDAY 31
Enjoy Live Music Mondays at IPC to kick start your week. Come support local musicians and have a good time with friends. https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/ live-music-mondays/
Free Perks with Your Houston Library Card
Kemah Boardwalk Family Fun
Houston Public Library all branches Various times. All ages
Island Pier Club, Galveston 7-10pm. All ages
Cool down and enjoy some good old family time on the boardwalk.
It’s time to dust off that library card (or go get one - it’s super easy, and all you need to be is a Texas resident, older than 18, and have a valid ID) and check out the many freebies that come with it. https://houstonlibrary.org/home
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Available in print, digital and everything in between. www.houstonfamilymagazine.com 42 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
43 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE August 2022
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