McKinney Kids Magazine Aug/Sep09

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mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

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Kids!

Parents!

Wouldn’t you love to enjoy a night out on the town or a quiet evening at home?

How about joining us for a fun night of games, arts and crafts, movies, food and more!

Parents Night Out! 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm Evans Middle School

(Location subject to change-watch our website for regular updates!)

Program Details: • Cost is $15 per child and $30 max per family if enrolled by the deadline.

• All children through the 8th grade are welcome to attend as long as they can use the bathroom independently - no diapers or Pull-Ups please.

• Dinner and supplies for the evening are included in the cost of enrollment.

• Children are grouped by age/grade.

• Activities for the event are based on a different theme each month.

• PNO enrollment forms will be available each month from the Club 360º staff at each campus or for download on our website at www.mckinneyisd.net

The Parents Night Out Events are brought to you by the MISD Office of Child Care Programs.

972-569-6235

OPEN TO PU

childcare@mckinneyisd.net www.mckinneyisd.net www.northtexasmagazines.com

BLIC

Schedule dates: September 25th October 23rd November 6th December 11th January 29th February 19th March 26th April 23rd May 14th Mark your calendars TODAY! Events to be held over the 2009-2010 school year! mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

onthecover

mckinneykidscontents August/September 2009 issue 38

Cover Picture: Sommer is 13 years old. She enjoys reading, dancing, fashion, storytelling, science, and pageants.

mckinneykidsmagazine publisher/editor:

Cover photo taken by:

Wendolin Mercado Photography www.wendolin.com

Vanessa Ximenez publisher@northtexasmagazines.com

art director:

6

10

24

Marlina Rahman marlina@northtexasmagazines.com

contributing writers: Mary Banas Jennifer Berry Jacqueline Bodnar Jackie Burson Julia Castro

features

Sarah Dunnahoe Grant Eckert

6 Save Money on Back to School Shopping

24 Getting Children to Read

8 Benefits of Spanish

34 The Clothes War

10 Fun After School Snacks 12 Childhood Obesity 14 I am A Facebook Loser 22 10 Ways to Make Homework Productive

Mary Fagan Myrna Haskell Belinda J. Mooney Charles Smith Martha Wegner

departments 18 20 26

27 28

back to school guide the divine line calendar of events by momunity awesome achiever kandid kids

McKinney Kids Magazine is a product of North Texas Magazines, Inc.

North Texas Magazines, Inc. 808 S. College St., Suite 112 McKinney, TX 75069 972.547.6261 www.northtexasmagazines.com

Copyright 2009, exclusive of proprietary ads and artwork designs. All rights reserved. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without prior written permission from the publisher. Placement of advertising is not a personal endorsement by the publisher or its representatives, and no liability arising therefrom is assumed.

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

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Editor’sNote It’s back to school and that means back to a schedule, back to homework and back to the normal activities that the school year brings.

While many of us are rejoicing, we are also panicking about how to get it all together before school starts. On page 6 read about how to save money on school shopping. From purchasing the bare necessities to reusing last year’s supplies, there are plenty of ideas on how little savings here and there can go a long way.

And while you’re shopping, the unavoidable “clothes war” may rise into full battle. But here’s a tip before you waste precious time and effort. As long as it remains within the school dress code and isn’t threatening in any way, decide to lose that battle and allow your child to express herself through her wardrobe. Whether his fashion choices are just a phase or not, it is still exciting to watch your child become more and more independent in his choices and to watch him grow into the unique person you have shaped.

Finally, keep in mind that there is more to learning than what an academic lesson will provide for your child. On page 20, read about instilling the word of God into your children’s education. If we expect our children to be successful, they must be equipped with strong spiritual foundations. Best wishes for a successful school year!

Sincerely,

Vanessa Ximenez

www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

By Jacqueline Bodnar

10 Ways to Save Money on Back to School Shopping According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there will be around 76 million students heading back to school this fall. Collectively, around $7.6 billion will be spent just at clothing stores during August as people scramble to buy new school clothes. And that doesn’t include all that will be spent on additional school supplies like paper, pens, crayons, and backpacks. But with the economy in a recession and over 14 million people out of work, there will be many families looking to save money on their much-needed supplies this year.

If you are one of the many struggling financially this year, and even if you are not, you are in luck when it comes to savings!

There are ways that you can get what you need to get your kids through the year and not break the bank to do it. Before you head out the door to do some back to school shopping, keep these tips in mind:

Reuse.

First, see what you can reuse from the previous year. Most likely you already have some supplies left over that could be used

ing the supplies list for their class. Then, cross off what you have

again which would keep you from having to buy more. Folders,

and what you really think you can do without, and then shop

notebooks, pens and crayons that are still in good working order

from the list. Stick to the list to avoid any impulse purchases.

can go in the ready-to-use pile and scratched off the list.

Also, by having a list you can try to get it all in one trip, rather

Think resale.

Clothing can be quite costly, no matter what age your child is.

Before buying new from a retail store, head to a couple of thrift

than driving around to multiple places, which will save gas.

Watch for incentives.

Keep your eyes open for incentives such as rebates and cou-

shops and see what they have. You and your kids may be pleas-

pons, which may make some products much more affordable.

antly surprised by finding many items that are like new, designer,

But don’t forget to send the rebate form in once you get home.

and very affordable. Often times, brand new items have been

You can find rebates in the weekly paper as well as in stores, on

donated to thrift stores from major department stores. Not only

products, and at the manufacturer’s Web sites.

do people not have to know they were bought used, you can take comfort in knowing you are also helping the environment.

Make a list.

Go for the sales.

You now know what you need, so log online or look in the paper for the weekly sales. See who has the best deals on what you

Just like when you go grocery shopping, you should have a list

need and do your shopping there. It takes a small effort to scout

for needed school supplies. Find out what is required by obtain-

out the sales ahead of time, but can pay off big.

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

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Montessori Children’s House “Where your children feel at home while experiencing the joy of a Montessori Education.”

A.M.S. AFFILIATED

Buy in bulk.

Most of the time, you save money if you buy the supplies in bulk. This would work great if you have more than one child or you can team up with a neighbor or friend who also needs supplies.

Grab generics.

For many items, the generic brands will work just as well and are often made by the same companies as the brand

Call to schedule a tour now!

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and comparing with the generics. You may be surprised how similar the items are and how much you can save.

Browse online.

Many online stores, especially discount school supply stores, offer cheaper prices and free or low-cost shipping. You may be able to save on your supply list by purchasing online from one discounter.

Stock up.

Within a couple of weeks of school being back in session the stores will offer huge clearance sales on all the school

gWhere Medicine and Compassion Meeth

Providing Healthcare for Infants, Children and Adolescents

supplies they had stocked up on. This is a great time to snag items you may need later in the year, as well as those you can store for next year. After all, items like scissors don’t change much from year to year.

Return unused.

Save all your receipts so you can return any unused items.

This is especially helpful if you find out two weeks after school starts that the items are now deeply discounted. As long as you still have the receipt, you can return the items and re-buy them at the clearance price.

Jacqueline Bodnar is a freelance writer who lives in Port Orange, Fla. with her husband and two children.

www.northtexasmagazines.com

Cheryl Eley, M.D., F.A.A.P. & Virenda Wood, M.D., F.A.A.P. Diplomates, American Board of Pediatrics

Lenee Safstrom, P.A.-C

Se Habla Español Most Insurance Plans Accepted 4510 Medical Center Drive, Suite 211 McKinney, TX 75069 Phone: 972.548.8382 Fax: 972.547.9951 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

By Charles Smith

Benefits of Spanish

Want to get your kid to learn Spanish? Spanish is a very useful language to learn, and you could be giving your child significant advantages in later life by helping them learn it now. Spanish is the native language in 28 different countries, and all around the world over 330 million people are Spanish speakers.

The world will only get smaller as communications get better, so follow these tips to help your child get a leg up and learn Spanish now..

Help Your Kid Learn Spanish:

Open their eyes to different cultures.

There are obviously different ways of doing this depending on the age of your children, but a good way to start is to introduce them to some different styles of food etc. Take them to Spanish

something like that. Utilizing “dead” time like that can boost anyone’s learning of anything.

Don’t force them!

There is nothing worse than being forced into something as a

restaurants, maybe even rent some Spanish movies. Kids have

child and growing to hate it as an adult! This will surely put a

an ability to learn which far outstrips us grown ups, and you can

stop to any advantages your child may have developed from

take advantage of that by being diverse with them in ways

learning to speak two languages, and if you force them into

like this.

doing it it’s not really something they will do in later life by

Get them some courses.

choice is it?

There are lots of modern Spanish courses which are great at

Helping your kid learn Spanish, or any other language can be a

teaching kids. Some of them have multimedia which can be used

very narrow tightrope to walk. As an adult it’s tempting to force

on their computers and even DVDs to watch. These things can

them into it if it’s what you believe is best, but this can be the

be a tremendous advantage, but it’s important to give the learn-

wrong approach to anything regarding your children. Hopefully

ing some kind of structure. It will come much easier to the child

these tips will help you help them in a positive way. For more

if you can turn the studying into a habit or routine.

information about learning Spanish, check out the links below.

Choose a course which includes MP3s.

Love them or hate them, it seems like MP3 players are here to

Online Spanish - Learn Spanish Words: http://learn-basic-spanish-words.spanishtuitionguide.com

stay. What better way to help your child learn Spanish than to put their tuition MP3s onto their Ipod so they can listen to them when they would normally be bored in the back of the car or

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

Source: ArticleTrader.com

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Spanish Schoolhouse

Combining early childhood education with language learning

Spanish Schoolhouse offers a language immersion approach to education. Our aim is to help parents prepare their children for living and growing in a global society - one in which communication in a second language will provide a major advantage in an increasingly multi-lingual and multi-cultural environment.

Learning a second language has tremendous educational benefits for children. Studies have shown that children who speak two or more languages have stronger cognitive abilities, stronger verbal and mathematic skills, show increased creativity, are better at problem solving and are more prepared for life in an international world.

Children have a critical window of opportunity to learn another language. Spanish Schoolhouse takes advantage of this window to give your child the valuable gift of another language while acquiring essential Preschool & Kindergarten skills.

Now Open in McKinn ey!

El Pájaro

Information session dates: August 12th 10 am August 17th 6 pm Our programs include:

• Preschool • Kindergarten • After School Class • Summer Camp (3-12 yrs) • Mommy & Me

La Rana

214-250-4762 www.spanishschoolhouse.com 2421 Virginia Parkway • McKinney, TX 75071 www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

By Belinda Mooney

Fun After School Snacks Blueberry Fruit Shake Ingredients: • 1 cup crushed ice

• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla

• 1 cup cold water

• 1 cup blueberry yogurt

• 1/3 can frozen orange

• 1/4 cup sugar

juice concentrate

• 2 bananas, chilled and peeled

What You Do: In your blender put the ice, water, orange juice and vanilla. . Blend on medium high until most of the ice is slushy. Next add the yogurt, sugar and mix them together until smooth.

Then cut the bananas into small chunks and drop them into the mixture. On high speed, blend everything until the shake is thick and frosty.

Tortilla Pizzas Ingredients: • flour tortilla shells

• mushrooms, sliced

• spaghetti sauce

• onions, finely chopped

• pepperoni, sliced

• cheddar cheese, grated

• olives, sliced What You Do: Spread each flour tortilla with some of the spaghetti sauce so

It is time to get ready for school again. Everyone will be buying new school supplies and new school clothes. And after a long day of giving your brain a real workout you are probably going to be

shell is thinly covered. Put the pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, onions, or other pizza toppings on top of the sauce. Sprinkle on grated cheese. Roll up tortilla and place seam side down on a microwave safe plate. Microwave on high for 30 seconds or until cheese is melted and tortilla is heated through.

hungry. Here are some readers favorite quick after school snacks.

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10 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

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Peanut Butter Balls

Apple Snacksters with Honey & Peanut Butter

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy or chunky style peanut butter • 1 cup powdered milk • 1-1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar • 1 cup honey

• 3/4 cup chunky peanut butter

• 4 large apples

• 1/3 cup honey

• cold water

• Optional shredded coconut or chopped peanuts

What You Do:

What You Do:

well blended. Set aside.

1. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and honey together until

In a bowl mix together the peanut butter, powdered milk, sugar and honey. Make sure it is completely blended together.

Now pull off small pieces, roll into balls and set on waxed paper. Roll in shredded coconuts or peanuts. Refrigerate until firm. Makes 24 to 30 balls.

2. Fill a large bowl with cold water and stir in lemon juice.

Set aside.

3. For each apple, choose a type of Snackster below and follow the steps.

To Make a Snackster Stacker: 1. Use an apple corer to remove the center of the apple,

Smoothies & Slushies

making a hollow space from stem end through the bottom.

Put a handful of your favorite fruit in the blender with a cup of milk and some ice. Try using different fruits together. Add a scoop of ice cream. YUM!

2. With a sharp knife, cut apple crosswise into 4 thick slices.

3. Dip apple slices in lemon water and gently pat dry with paper towels.

4. Starting with the bottom piece, use a butter knife to spread the peanut butter mixture on the cut sides of each slice and

Crunchy Snacks

gently press them together to reassemble the apple.

Make some microwave popcorn and sprinkle it with parmesan cheese, chili powder or your favorite seasoning. Tortilla chips and salsa make great snacks. Mix cereals such as Cheerios or Rice Chex with peanuts, chocolate chips, dried coconut or dried fruit for easy granola type snack.

5. To make a stem, top apple with a mint sprig.

To Make a Snackster Dipper: 1. With a sharp knife, cut each apple in half from stem end to bottom.

2. Cut each half into 4 to 6 wedges. With knife or melon ballet remove apple core from each wedge.

Fruits & Veggies

3. Dip wedges in lemon water and gently pat dry with paper towels.

Keep chopped up fruit on hand for after school snacking. Make

4. Spoon the peanut butter mixture into a small bowl and

a fruit salad. Add some strawberries, grapes and sliced bananas.

surround with apple wedges for dipping. (courtesy of the

Pour some yogurt over top and sprinkle with your favorite dry

National Honey Board)

cereal. Carrot sticks, celery with peanut butter and olives make great on the go snacks. Keep cut up fresh veggies in snack size Ziploc bags in the refrigerator for ready to go snacks.

Belinda J. Mooney is a freelance writer mainly focusing on parenting and family issues.

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collincounty@funbuses.com mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 11

By Sarah Dunnahoe | Metabolic Research Center

Childhood Obesity Childhood obesity can cause health problems that

nutrients and calories to fuel their growth and development. So,

last for a lifetime. When should you worry? And what

if they consume the calories needed for daily activities, growth

can you do? Do you know when to be concerned about your child’s weight? Of course, all children gain weight as they grow older. But extra pounds — more

and metabolism, they add pounds in proportion to their growth.

But children who eat more calories than needed gain weight beyond what’s required to support their growing bodies.

than what’s needed to support their growth and de-

Obese children can develop serious health problems, such as

velopment — can lead to childhood obesity.

diabetes and heart disease, often carrying these conditions into

Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition that affects

developing:

children and adolescents. It occurs when a child is well above the

• Type 2 diabetes

normal weight for his or her age and height. Childhood obesity

• Metabolic syndrome

is particularly troubling because the extra pounds often start

• High blood pressure

kids on the path to health problems that were once confined to

• Asthma and other respiratory problems

adults, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high choles-

• Sleep disorders

terol. Childhood obesity can also lead to adulthood obesity.

• Liver disease

An overweight child has a 70% chance of being an overweight

• Early puberty or menarche

adult. With the number of overweight children, what will this do

• Eating disorders

for our future? How will it affect the workforce, health insurance

• Skin infections

an obese adulthood. Overweight children are at higher risk of

costs, the economy and so much more if this trend continues?

If you’re worried that your child is putting on too much weight, One of the best strategies to combat excess weight in your child

talk to his or her doctor or health care provider. Then, Metabolic

is to improve the diet and exercise levels of your entire family.

Research Center is one of the only weight loss companies to have

This helps protect the health of your child now and in the future.

a nutritionally sound weight loss program developed for children. It has been developed by pediatricians and dieticians and is

Although there are some genetic and hormonal causes of childhood obesity, most excess weight is caused by kids eating too much and exercising too little. Children, unlike adults, need extra 12 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

facilitated by certified weight loss specialists.

Sarah Dunnahoe, Area Director, Metabolic Research Center-weight loss specialists.

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Junior Academy of McKinney • ABeka & High Reach Learning Curriculums • Beautiful State-of-the-Art facility for Children 6 Weeks - 12 Years Old • Before & After School Care Transportation • Private Kindergarten • Gym, Cafeteria, Library, Pool, Computer Room • Camera Monitoring

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IS YOUR child Overweight? meta-kidz weight loss program now available serving overweight children 7 years and older Pediatrician designed and recommended Safe for children 7-15 years of age Real food for grocery store and restaurants Safe, fun and motivating environment Meta-kidz specialists on site

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You have nothing to lose but your weight! www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 13

By Mary Fagan

I am a facebook loser Yes, that is me. I opened a Facebook account just to cash in on $25 worth of free advertising. I wanted to remain anonymous so I posted no photos, etc. that would identify me. Low and behold, my nephew found me, told my kids, and then all hell broke lose. According to them, this makes me a big loser as the site is for younger people - younger people than me.

If you don’t know, Facebook is what is called a social networking site.

People go online there to keep in touch, share news and photos and meet new people in the virtual sense. As a parent, I was unaware of just how exclusive this experience is.

You see, according to my children, lame, lonely, pathetic, friendless, or people of dubious character are who make up the Facebook older set. (And how is this like me? Don’t they understand the value of a dollar? I said free advertising - $25 worth. What’s not to understand?)

I laughed when my husband’s friend, who is even older than me, found me on Facebook. My kids really like him and think he is cool.

I thought his acceptance of me would get me a bit of a pass, but no.

They said he is a loser too. I plan on breaking this to him gently as he is older and probably can’t handle too much stress or excitement.

While I was on Facebook, I noticed something called a poke. Not having a clue what it was and being terminally curious, I poked my

I admit that I felt a bit overexposed when my niece found me and

daughter. Nothing happened. Until about four hours after when she

posted photos of me sewing on a quilt with my reading glasses on so

sent me a seething e-mail about not poking her again and another

that I look like Granny Moses’ older sister. All I needed was a shawl. Oh,

dire warning to stay off of Facebook.

wait, that was on my lap.

It seems a poke is nothing. The other person just gets an e-mail

At least she posted a more flattering one of me vamping under a

saying that so-and-so poked you. This simple little virtual mode of

Twilight movie poster that she took when I dropped the kids off at

annoyance made me want to poke and poke her again.

the theater recently. Lest you think that I am really a loser, I didn’t

Why is it, that after all these years, my kids don’t learn how to man-

watch Twilight at the theater. I just picked the kids up there. I noticed

age me? If they really wanted me to get off of Facebook, they would

that the audience was about 99.8% teens and young adults and I know

constantly pester me, fill my space with useless drivel and ask me in-

my place.

cessant questions like they do in real life. With this mystery unsolved, my Facebook account lives on as entertainment.

Boy, I would have been a real loser to have gone in to watch it with them.

In a strange twist of fate, I have become a kind of status symbol with my daughter’s college peers. She told them about my hideous Face-

Instead I read the books. I prefer to be a loser in the comfort of my

book membership, and much to her chagrin, becoming my friend is

own home.

all the rage. Her friends are bragging over how fast I accepted them online, and one was even worried about getting rejected. I haven’t been this popular since high school.

14 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

Mary Fagan has an M.S. in Education and is the mother of three children with the grey hairs to prove it. When not providing advice and transportation to and fro, she offers lighthearted parenting humor online at www.motherwise.us. www.northtexasmagazines.com

Welcome to our School...

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West McKinney 9070 Westridge Blvd.

972-346-3000 www.kidsrkids38tx.com

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mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 15

By Martha Wegner

I Can’t Believe My Child Just Did That!

A parent’s response to a child’s misbehavior could prove to be the key to future behavior

;

NORTH STAR Gymnastics & Cheer

Women’s Bible Study Thursday, Sep 3 10 am - 12 pm

Join us for the best Gymnastics Program for the coming school year season www.northstargymnastics.com 972-562-2777 16 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

and will meet every first Thursday of each month.

Knowing Who You Are As A Woman Facilitated by Lady Belle, The Divine Line columnist in McKinney Woman Magazine.

Reserve your attendance by emailing publisher@northtexasmagazines.com www.northtexasmagazines.com

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mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 17

Back to School Directory Adventure Kids Playcare

214-491-4088 www.adventurekidsplaycare.com

Adventure Kids Playcare welcomes you to McKinney’s only hourly daycare service. Stop in anytime for a tour, or just stay and play. Your children and can play for 20 minutes or 9 hours!

What ever you need we are there for you!

Junior Academy of McKinney

At Junior Academy of McKinney our mission is to deliver personal care for our students academic life in a safe, secure and positive learning environment. Our beautiful state of 972-547-0030 the art facility includes a gym, cafeteria, library www.junioracademyofmckinney.com and pool.

Castle Montessori of McKinney

972-529-1222 www.castlemontessori.com

Castle Montessori offers year round Authentic Montessori education delivered by world-class, certified Montessori teachers. Our schools feature newly built state-of-the-art facilities especially designed for children ages 18 months to 9 years of age. Enrollment is open and we invite you to visit anytime!

Kids ‘R’ Kids

972-540-1600 • 972-346-3000 www.kidsrkids14tx.com www.kidsrkids38tx.com

Childrens Lighthouse L

CHILDRENS

GHTHOUSE

972-569-6996 • 972-747-1180 www.childrenslighthouse.com

Childrens Lighthouse provides safe, quality loving care and educational services in a secure nurturing environment. We aspire to promote the positive development of young children in all areas of growth. We commit to the most comprehensive educational materials available, the A Beka curriculum.

Little Saints School

972-562-3585 www.littlesaintsschool.org

Eagle Gymnastics Academy

972-712-4644 www.eaglegymnastics.com

Come and flip with us in our state-of-the-art, airconditioned facility. Fun, Fitness and Fundamentals are the basis of all of our programs; while teaching each gymnast a strong foundation for learning and the confidence they need to succeed. Eagle provides classes from 18 months and older for both boys and girls. No experience is needed! Call TODAY to book your class. Believe and Achieve!

972-548-9386 www.funbuses.com

972-569-6235 www.mckinneyisd.net

972-562-5476 www.hfsmckinney.org

972-517-5437

972-369-0079 www.mckinney.huntingtonlearning.com

18 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

Our school environment was created with the child’s developmental needs as our blueprint. Children’s gardens and play structures surround our eight large, well equipped, inviting classrooms. Experienced, caring teachers take the time to insure each classroom’s “prepared environment” is organized for optimal learning, in a fun educational atmosphere. MCH children learn by doing, exploring, and asking questions in out mixed age environments, where everyone can learn and be a teacher to someone!

North Star Gymnastics

972-562-2777 www.northstargymnastics.com

Huntington Learning Center

Why Do Smart Kids Struggle? At Huntington, we’ll help your child improve their skills in math, reading, writing, and phonics. While enhancing your child’s academic foundation and confidence, Huntington will help them gain the Educational Edge™.

McKinney ISD offers before/ after-school care at all elementary schools and after-school at all middle schools. Programs include: snack, homework time with teachers, arts/crafts, leadership, PE and more. Enrollment is year round. We also offer Parent’s Night Outs, view website for details.

Montessori Children’s House

Holy Family School

We provide a year round curriculum, which includes arts and crafts, field trips, water days, gardening and more. We are now enrolling for our low rotio private Kindergarten class and our preschool. We offer a safe, loving, Christian learning environment with small class size for more individualized education.

Now enrolling for Fall. 2 Year old, preschool and prekindergarten classes with 2, 3, or 4 day programs available. Extended care available for all classes, everyday until 2 pm.

Low child/teacher ratio. Bright, sunny and safe environment. We help to build a strong foundation for your child.

McKinney ISD

Fun Bus

Looking for something FUN and different to do?

Let kids climb, tumble, swing, jump and flip on our fully air-conditioned bus! Make your child’s birthday our next stop…and make childhood memories come alive! Great for Special Events, Grand Openings or just weekend FUN!

Kids ‘R’ Kids understands that for many working parents it is challenging to find an enriching atmosphere for before- and afterschool care for children 5 through 5th Grade.

We are excited to offer homework help, supervised activities, and child-directed play in a safe and clean environment.

North Star Gymnastics & Cheer has ALL of the fun this summer for your child! We have fun-filled activities to keep your child exercising, learning, and developing great memories to last a lifetime! Enrollment is open for classes now!

North Texas Christian Academy

North Texas Christian Academy

214-544-1794 www.northtexaschristian.org

North Texas Christian Academy provides a quality, faith-based education in a nurturing environment. The school offers classes for children in preschool through 6th grade.

NTCA offers the S.M.A.R.T.S.™ education enrichment program for advanced learning opportunities in: Spanish, Music, Art, Religious study, Technology & Science www.northtexasmagazines.com

Help your child Primrose Schools

The Primrose Schools in McKinney are the perfect choice for your child’s education and care this fall.

Our proprietary curriculum blends child-initiated and teacher-directed activities with the very special Primrose focus on character development.

Our schools offer full day programs in a safe and 972-529-2091 • 972-529-6863 nurturing environment for Infants through Private www.primroseschools.com Kindergarten. Call us today to schedule a tour!

Riddle Street Montessori

469-422-3171 www.riddlestreet.com

RSM provides a strong integrated and creative system of learning for gifted and high-achieving students, ages 3 - 12. Children learn through activity and discovery, ensuring each child works to his potential. Classes begin August 24th.

do better in school.

W

hen it comes to helping kids with the new school year, no one does it better than Huntington®. If your child struggles with homework, can’t keep up with new classwork, or just wants to get ahead, call us. We can help. We can diagnose what is keeping your child from being his or her best and create a program of instruction tailored to his or her needs. Huntington can improve your child’s skills, confidence, and motivation.

1-800 CAN LEARN 1651 W. Eldorado Pkwy., Ste. 100 ● McKinney, TX 75069

972-369-0079

Independently franchised and operated. ©2009 Huntington Mark, LLC.

Spanish Schoolhouse

214-250-4762 www.spanishschoolhouse.com

Give your child the gift of the Spanish language through our comprehensive, academic preschool!

Our unique immersion program provides educational excellence while giving the children the invaluable skill of comprehension and use of the Spanish language and culture. Call us or visit our website today for details!

The Goddard School

469-952-3300 www.goddardschool.com

At The Goddard School, children are encouraged to develop at their own pace in a nurturing environment supported by a team of dedicated teachers. The program enhances children’s emotional, social, intellectual and physical development and provides the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

The Ice at Stonebriar

972-731-9600 www.stonebriarice.com

Join us at the Ice at Stonebriar for our Learn-toSkate classes and camps. We offer classes for all ages as well as kids camps that include skating, crafts and lots of fun. See our website or call for more information.

The SunFlower Patch

The SunFlowerPatch 214-726-0824 www.thesunflowerpatch.net

At the Sunflower Patch your child is offered an environment that is peaceful, nurturing and unrushed. We are a media free space with only Mother Nature as our greatest source of inspiration & your child’s natural curiosity. The Curriculum is Naturebased with an artistic approach to learning, through gardening, music, art and storytelling your child will learn about their world around them.

Zenith Gymnastics

214-592-0662 www.zenithgym.com

Zenith Gymnastics of McKinney offers gymnastics and tumbling classes and also youth conditioning clinics. USAG Safety Certified and CPR staff. Spacious facility with state of the art equipment. The first lesson is FREE. We also offer Open Gym, Mom & Tots, Birthday Parties, Friday Night Out and more.

Zenith is located at 2140 N. Redbud Blvd, #F, McKinney, TX 75069.

www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 19

By Mary Banas | Community Life Church

TheDivineLine And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, . . . All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable . . . That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3: 15-17 Did you know “By the age of nine, most of the moral and spiritual foundations of a child are in place.”?*1 “The importance of building strong spiritual foundations at an early age is confirmed…There is virtually no difference between the spiritual standing of adults and those exiting their childhood years…In other words, by the age of 13, your spiritual identity is largely set in place. *2 One might think, well I cannot give what I do not have, or I am a little gray on some issues, particularly if you have struggled in an area of your life. But I want to encourage you to rise up and do it for your kids! One of the goals of parenting should be to give your children a better foundation than you were given.

You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength. As you do, your own life will benefit. Rom. 12: 2, exhorts us to not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. We do so by replacing our thoughts with His thoughts, so clearly while we are imparting to our children, we ourselves will change.

Classical education states there are three stages to education, Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. Before age ten, children are absorbing their world. They are largely learning their language, building their vocabulary, and filling up their basic knowledge of things. They are like a computer, receiving input they will draw on for the rest of their lives. Between 10 and 12 (they are still in the Grammar stage) their knowledge begins to grow rapidly on the abstract level. But their reasoning and their creative communication skills have not yet developed very highly. This

True education is not just about academics; it must begin with the Word of God. Since our state educators are unable to do that, and our children are

is why it is so important to impart the word of God, so as they develop their reasoning abilities, they have the Holy Scriptures to reason with.

only in Children’s Church an average of 52 hours per

Equipping them with Scripture will enable our children to

year, the primary responsibility to impart a biblical

distinguish good from evil, truth from falsehood, right from

worldview rests on the parents.

wrong, and holy from unholy. And the best way to equip them is simply to read the Bible to them. Read it out loud and have them read it out loud.

20 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

www.northtexasmagazines.com

God’s Word is a sufficient guide for all things necessary in life. God’s word opens our eyes to the correct way to view the world, and teaches us principles which direct how we should live in the real world. It tells us the proper order of things and the proper relationship between things. It gives us truths to establish our knowledge, values to guide our understanding, and goals to direct our wisdom. Therefore, knowledge of the Scriptures is of utmost importance.

He promises that His word is powerful and will not return void. It is a lamp to our feet and a light for our path. Facts may change, circumstances may change, but His Truth never will. We need to constantly speak Truth to ourselves and to our children.

Proverbs 23:7 says “…as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he”. Thoughts birth action, again that is why we need to let our children know God’s thoughts.

They need to know they are fearfully and wonderfully made, that He knew them before they were in their mother’s womb, that He delights in them and that they are the apple of His eye. This will be important on the days we are not at our best. They need to know the unconditional love of the Father, that supersedes our own and some days our lack. We can give them a confidence in whose they are that can never be shaken.

Don’t be intimidated! Just begin. I am enclosing a sampling of scriptures for you to begin with, but trust me it will not be long before you develop your own for your family.

• Psalm 139; Eph 2:10;Heb 12:1; Psalm 63:1; Psalm 97:10; Matt 5:6; Psalm 119:71; I Pet 2:17; Rom. 13:1; Thess. 5:15; Ps 51:10; Titus 2:14; Col. 3:12; Gal. 6:5; Phil. 4:12-13; Deut.

31:6;Ps 118:6; Ps. 63:8;Ps 42:1; Eph. 5:20; Col. 2:7; Psalm 23, 91, 103; Rom. 12:1-2; Eph 1:3-14 *1 George Barna, Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions (Ventura, CA:Regal Books,2003),p. 38 *2 Barna, p.58

Mary Banas is the mother of four and wife of Mike Banas, Pastor of Community Life Church in McKinney. See ad on this page.

www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 21

By Jennifer Berry

10 Ways to Make

Homework Productive Homework can be viewed in two different ways: a

fact, the individual asking questions tends to learn just as much as

useful tool, or a waste of time. No matter how won-

the one answering.

derful homework is, the benefits will only be real-

Make Homework the Same Time Each Day

ized if information is properly digested. To prevent wasted time, there are a several things you can do to

Homework should be done at the same time each and every

day. This gets the mind and body into a routine. Once a routine

make homework useful. Here are 10 ways in which

is established, the brain will automatically be ready to soak up

homework time can be made productive.

information. If there are no assignments for the day, take the time

Homework Overview

Immediately before beginning homework, it is wise to confirm

to review material.

Provide A Snack

what is expected. If the material is worksheet related, read the

The brain needs food to thrive. Feeding your body before you

instructions and headings. If the assignment is an essay, read the

do homework ensures an alert brain that isn’t preoccupied by a

required elements. Work should only begin once expectations

hungry stomach. Of course healthy snacks are better than sugar

are perfectly clear.

filled treats.

Work in Pairs

Positive Homework Feedback

Many people learn better in small groups. By completing home-

The best way to help a child improve is to use encouraging feed-

work with someone that has the same aptitude for a particular

back. For example, if she answers a worksheet question incorrectly,

subject, joint learning takes place. The saying, “Two heads work

don’t just tell her she is wrong. Let her know what she did right,

better than one” comes to mind.

and why she came to the wrong conclusion.

Quiz One Another

Recreational Time Before Homework

Working with a partner has many advantages. Another advantage is the ability to quiz each other on homework questions. In 22 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

School is 6 or 7 straight hours of learning. Children need to give their brains a break after school hours. Homework should not bewww.northtexasmagazines.com

• Private kindergarten • Low student/teacher ratio • Christian education • Excellent curriculum • Before and after school care • MISD partnership • Scholarships

972-562-5476 • www.hfsmckinney.org 500 Throckmorton • McKinney, TX 75069

Complete Healthcare for Infants, Children & Adolescents

gin immediately after the last class of the day. Instead, let your child play or relax before really digging into study material.

Take Periodic Homework Breaks

As students get older, homework tends to take up more and more time. The brain functions best when it is given 10 or 15 minute breaks every hour. This ensures information is absorbed and not forgotten once the head hits the pillow at night.

Homework Help Availability

When a child has a homework question, the best time to get

Courteous & Friendly Staff Same Day Sick Appointments* Short Wait Times* Saturday Appointments** Televisions in Exam & Waiting Rooms Online Services *in most cases. **available seasonally, check website for details.

214.544.2555

www.stonebridgepediatrics.com 175 Ridge Road • Suite 200 McKinney, TX 75070

Jeffrey J. Alvis, M.D.

Board Certified in Pediatrics

Frannie Delhoste, R.N., C.P.N.P. Paul H. Reyes, M.D. Board Certified in Pediatrics

an answer is immediately. More information is stored if problems are answered and corrected as soon as they arise. Make sure your child or student has someone available for questions during homework hours. This can be a parent, teacher, sibling, or tutor.

Review Homework

After homework is completed, it is important to review the finished product. Check worksheet answers, review essays, make sure all questions have a response. Success is in the details.

In many households, homework is a dreaded word. Instead of being looked at as a helpful tool, it is viewed as an immense waste of time. These 10 tips will transform homework from haphazard busywork, into a necessary learning tool.

Group Rates Available Have a Team Party on The Ice Jennifer Berry is publisher for http://www.worksheetlibrary.com

a collection of printable educational worksheets. Their team of Kindergarten through grade six teachers provides thousands of valuable classroom ready worksheets and timesavers. They offer a free weekly newsletter that features many worksheets for a variety of K-6 school subjects.

Source: ArticleTrader.com

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The Ice at Stonebriar Center www.stonebriarice.com • 972.731.9600 www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 23

By Grant Eckert

10 Important Tips for Getting Children to Read A child who reads becomes an adult who reads.

Most adults who begin reading at an early age continue to learn by reading throughout their lives.

Reading is more than a necessary skill - it’s a source for learning, entertainment, enjoyment and comfort.

The skill of reading can be one of the most valuable gifts that you give to your - or any - child.

Still, the question remains: How do you get children to read?

There are so many distractions in today’s world - television, cartoons, and video games, to name a few - that it may seem impossible to get your children to sit down and read, let alone turn them into reading enthusiasts. As a mother who has raised five avid readers, I can tell you that it’s nowhere near as hard as you might think. Here are ten important tips for getting your children to read - and loving every minute of it.

1. Let them see you read.

I’ll bet you thought that #1 would be “Read to them”, didn’t you?

That’s important (and it will get its own tip), but the single most important thing you can do to raise children who love reading is to be a reader. It doesn’t matter if you read magazines, newspapers or books. What is vital is that your children, from an early age, see reading as a valuable and fun thing to do - and the best way to show them that is to read in front of them.

24 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

2. Read to your children regularly.

Bedtime stories are an enduring childhood ritual, but don’t stop reading when your kids outgrow being tucked in at night. In our house, we made nightly reading a part of our evening - not at bedtime, but in the living room. Even when they reached their teens, my kids would often wander out into the living room to listen if I was reading to younger brothers and sisters.

3. Talk about what you read.

I am not suggesting that you should give your kids a reading comprehension quiz every time you read a story to them.

Instead, get used to talking about the books that you read in casual conversation. Mention how excited you are that your favorite writer has just published a new book. Ask them how they think Ramona (or Harry Potter) would handle a situation. Remind them about scenes in stories that you read to them when you run into similar scenes in real life.

4. As soon as they’re old enough, get them a library card.

Your public library is still the very best source of reading material. Take your kids to the library often. Hang out with them in the kids’ room and let them choose their own books.

Get them familiar with the librarian, and let them see other people enjoying books. www.northtexasmagazines.com

5. Make a big deal of their personal writing.

Writing gives kids an appreciation for the written word and deepens their enjoyment of reading. When children and teens start writing their own stories, they stop viewing books as something magical and unusual, out of their reach. If your children write, treat their writing as you would any other book. Buy them a journal. Help them create and bind their own books. Put their books on the bookshelf next to their bought books.

Every child is a story yet to be told.

6. Subscribe to children’s magazines.

Books are fun, but magazines offer a different kind of reading and engagement. Too often, even we adults only consider it “reading” if it’s in a book. Magazines are colorful, topical and fun.

Many children who consider reading a chore when the reading comes in book form will eagerly snatch their favorite magazine from the post box the moment it arrives and not put it down till they’ve read every last page.

7. Make books and magazines accessible in every way.

Buy books and magazines for your kids as gifts. Make sure that there are books around the house in places that are easy for them to reach. Make sure, as well, that the books you choose are accessible - written for the right age level, and geared to their interests.

In addition to our strong core curriculum, NTCA also offers S.M.A.R.T.S.TM which provides our students with advanced opportunities.

S.M.A.R.T.S.

Education Enrichment Program

S - Spanish M - Music A - Art R - Religious Study T - Technology S - Science

Preparing students for life and faith through a superior scholastic, social and spiritual experience.

North Texas Christian Academy NTCA Offers a Full Scope of

Developmental Programs

• 2-day program for 1 year olds - 4 year olds • Kindergarten readiness • Kindergarten through 6th grade • Extended after school care available

214-544-1794 • www.northtexaschristian.org 3201 N. Central Expressway • McKinney, TX 75071

8. Institute family reading time.

When your kids start thinking they’re too old for read-aloud, institute a family reading time. It can be as little as twenty minutes a day, or an hour two or three nights a week. The only rule is that everyone in the family participates - shut off the televisions and computers and everyone reads.

9. Show an interest in what they’re reading.

The single most valuable reward for most kids is attention from their parents - so pay attention when your kids read. Notice it when they read a book that you remember. Ask them what the story is about. Talk to them about the books that they like.

10. Watch movies based on books - and then read the books together.

The other way around may work as well. Television and movies don’t have to be the enemy. When you read Charlotte’s Web, rent the video and watch it together - then talk about how well it captured the book. Or reverse the process - watch Harry Potter, then read the book together and talk about how much more depth there is in the book. Either way, you’re fostering a critical eye and showing your children that behind every movie or television show is a writer and often, a book.

Grant Eckert is a freelance writer who writes about children’s education, similar to what consumers read in National Geographic for Kids

www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 25

Momunity’s Calendar

of Kid Friendly Events Find fun things to do in and around McKinney!

August Events in McKinney

All of August - Free Children’s Admission at The Heard Museum in McKinney - The Heard is offering free children’s admission (normally $5) with the purchase of an adult admission ($8) for the month of August. Check out their current exhibits on Native Texas Butterflies, Beehives, or Treasures of the Earth, or plan to get there at 3pm on Wednesdays for the ever-popular Snake Feedings.

Sponsored by:

momunity

® beta

The Essential Guide for McKinney Moms

www.momunity.org

great rodeo, live stock show, fishing, and lots of great food.

Cost: Adult Tickets are $12.00; Children Tickets $5.00; and Parking is only $5.00

September Events in McKinney

All Month Long – Story time – McKinney Public Library – Story

McKinney Youth Theatre – August 14th through the 23rd, for more information and to purchase tickets visit www.mckinneyyouththeatre.com or call 972-422-2575.

time resumes in the month of September at the McKinney Public Library. This free program is for the whole family to enjoy reading, finger plays, songs and stories in English on Mondays from 7:00 7:30, and join in on our bi-lingual program on Wednesdays from 7:00 - 7:30! Visit www.mckinneytexas.org for more free reading programs for kids!

Saturday August 15th - Hawaiian Night at the Juanita Maxfield

Friday September 4th – Neighborhood Night at the movies pres-

Aquatic Center - Enjoy an evening of water, music, games, prizes, food, outdoor movie (Finding Nemo) and fun for the whole family, 5:30 - 8:30pm. Call 972-542-9718 for more info.

ents; Wall-E - Inspiration Park – Free to the public, for more information visit www.mckinneytexas.org.

Monday August 17th – Story time at the Heard - Heard

presents; Madagascar 2 – Hill Top Park - Free to the public, for more information visit www.mckinneytexas.org.

Throughout August - Beauty & The Beast - Presented by the

National Science Museum - Free with general admission for details call 972.562.5566 or visit www.heardmuseum.org.

Friday August 21st through 23rd - Tax Free Weekend -

Friday September 11th – Neighborhood Night at the movies

Monday September 14th – Home school Day Announced

– Visit www.mckinneyisd.net for additional information.

– North Texas History Center - Gone to Texas - Pioneering in North Texas was designed with 4th and 5th grade TEKS in mind. This program explores why people came to North Texas and will help children think about the past in a new way. The program will be offered from 10 to noon or from 1-3. Reservations are required and the price per student is $4.00. Parents wishing to reserve a spot may email sarah@ northtexashistorycenter.org or telephone 972.542.9457 ext. 102.

August Events around McKinney

Friday September 18th – Neighborhood Night at the movies

McKinney shoppers get a break from state and local sales taxes on August 21, 22 and 23. Lay-away plans can be used again this year to take advantage of the sales tax holiday!

Monday August 24th – First day of School for McKinney ISD!

All of August – $1 Admission at the Dallas Arboretum - There’s still time to take advantage of the Dallas Arboretum’s reduced admission prices everyday in August! It’s a remarkable $1 per person! With 14 ultra-cool playhouses based on their favorite stories like “One Fish Two Fish” you and your kids won’t mind the heat.

Admission prices will return to their normal levels in September, so visit now!

August 15th – Peanut Butter and Jamm - Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm - Magician Day: Kids will be amazed when a Magician does special tricks with a live bunny and dove. Activities also include creating sand art necklaces to wear home. Free event for children 3 to 12 years. Visit www.watters-creek.com for more information or call 972-747-8000.

Friday August 21st – Opening Day, North Texas State Fair - “Let’s Ride” - This annual event is one that shouldn’t be missed with something for everyone in the family. The North Texas State Fair and Rodeo offers a spectacular midway of carnival rides, a

26 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

presents; Wall-E - Whisenant Park – Free to the public, for more information visit www.mckinneytexas.org.

Saturday September 19th - Ropes Course Open to the Public Days - Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary - Put family teamwork to the test on a 110-foot rock climb, a 500-foot zip line and a team power pole. It’s all part of Open to the Public Day at the Heard. From 9am to 5pm. Details: Call 972-562-5566

Friday September 25th – Neighborhood Night at the movies presents; Madagascar 2 – Aviator - Free to the public, for more information visit www.mckinneytexas.org.

Saturday, September 26 - McKinney OKTOBERFEST 2009 Historic Downtown McKinney - Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event that will offer authentic German music, food & drink, traditional costumes, dancing, children’s activities, and much more from 10 am to 11pm. For more information please visit downtownmckinney.com or contact McKinney Main Street at 972-547-2660. www.northtexasmagazines.com

MKM Awesome Achiever

Dr. Tammy Gough, D.D.S, M.S. & Dr. Jessie Hunter, D.D.S. proudly support:

Sommer Bryant

Sommer Bryant is 13 years old and attends middle school in McKinney.

Among her many accomplishments, Sommer was chosen as a State Finalist in the National American Miss Texas Pageant for the pre-teen division.

She was also a writer for Metro Girl Magazine writing about everyday, real life issues that young girls deal with.

Last year, Sommer was voted the Governor of Social Studies Class with some of her duties including assigning jobs to different classmates and deciding on class rules.

Sommer also attended attorney training for teen court, and is donating her time to being a prosecuting attorney one night every month. Teen court has real misdemeanor cases for teenagers and the attorneys try the court cases.

This year, Sommer was selected to be on the broadcast team at her school. While many applications are submitted, only ten are selected and since she plans to be a talk show host when she grows up, she is very excited about this assignment.

Sommer has an overall average of an A in her classes and was nominated as Student of the Month & awarded Proud Award in Reading Class- The Student of the Month Award is for being the best overall student for that month (May). The Proud Award is for being respectful, assiduous, and doing your best all school year.

While Sommer has a full agenda for this school year, she is very excited.

Our Mission is to provide a dental experience that makes kids say, “I can’t wait to come back.”

Tammy L. Gough, D.D.S., M.S. Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

Jessie Hunter, D.D.S. Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

972.727.0737 201 N. Alma Drive Allen, TX 75013

(Behind Bluckbuster Video)

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mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 27

KandidKids

I’m just having some cheap and dirty fun!

Three little monkeys sitting in a tree!

I’m a fighter pilot... just like snoopy.

Arghhhh. Now feed me!

Hello to all my fans out there.

Step away from the turkey leg

You are so funny, you make my hair stand!

This is what I call a bird’s eye view.

If I could just get one little drink......

Gimme that and leave me alone.

OMG - It totally landed on my hand

I guess I can stop for a pose

Just strolling through the park with my best friend

You see this red hair?

It means you better get lost!

Email candid shots to publisher@northtexasmagazines.com

28 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

www.northtexasmagazines.com

Little Saints School Established since 1979 Fully Licensed, Non-Profit Private School

Now Enrolling for Fall 2 year old, Preschool & Prekindergarten Classes 2, 3, or 4 day programs available Extended Care available for all classes, everyday until 2:00 Low child/teacher ratio. Bright, Sunny & Safe Environment Experienced, degreed teachers help students build a strong foundation through music, art, and play

Director: Jill Lemley

972-562-3585 saintlittle@sbcglobal.net 2000 White Avenue • McKinney, TX 75069 (Located at First Presbyterian Church)

Allergy, Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic Board Certified Ear, Nose & Throat Physicians, Head & Neck Surgeons

Thomas V. Ripp, M.D.

Neil M. Vora, M.D.

www.northtexasmagazines.com

Camille A. Graham, M.D.

Wha-Joon Lee, M.D.

General ENT • Sinus Disease • Seasonal Allergy Head & Neck Cancer • Snoring & Sleep Apnea Hearing Loss & Hearing Aids • Tonsils & Adenoids Pediatric & Adult Neck Masses Balance Disorders • Ear Tubes • Skin Cancer Treatment Nose & Ear Reshaping • Minimal-Incision Browlifts Voice & Swallowing Problems Thyroid Parathyroid Management Board Certified Audiologist on Staff

972-548-7555 www.allergyent.com 4521 Medical Center Dr., Ste. 400 McKinney, TX 75069 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 29

By Julia Castro

A Kidney for Marcelo, or Two or Three

A Grandmother’s Story In May of 2000, I attended the high school graduation of one of my grandchildren. His sister, a year younger than he, was graduating the same night from another school. I had to decide whose ceremony to attend. It wasn’t easy, but I chose to attend Marcelo’s. He’s kind of special.

I felt a sense of deep pride as I watched him in the procession but, along with pride, I felt so deeply grateful to so many people who had helped him reach this milestone. First of all, to God Almighty, for the gift of life. Marcelo stood only four feet five inches tall, nearly lost in a sea of black caps and gowns. People must have thought it odd that a high school graduate could be so short. To us, the family members that attended, he seemed like a giant. He had overcome so many obstacles. You see, Marcelo had a kidney transplant right around the time that well-known basketball player, Sean Elliot, had his transplant. Marcelo didn’t make the headlines.

And unlike Sean, Marcelo had not lived a normal life up until then.

Marcelo was diagnosed with chronic renal failure before he was three months old. He was a robust eight-pound baby when he was born. He did have an odd color, not dark, but sort of grayish. When he got sick, doctors discovered that, while he did have two kidneys, they were too small to function properly. There were so many foods that his body couldn’t tolerate, including milk. As a result, he developed rickets. His little legs became bowed and it stunted his growth. He attended Head Start in his pre-school years and then went to public school for a while. His mom and dad were tested for compatibility to give him a kidney. His mom came closest to being a match, and when he was seven years old, he received a kidney from her. It was an anxious time, with her surgery first to remove the kidney, and then immediately afterwards, transferring it to Marcelo’s little body. He weighed only thirty-three pounds at the time. That time he did make the news. He was the first child in the San Antonio area to receive a transplant of any kind. Marcelo and his mom both recovered nicely from their surgeries. The kidney worked for about five years and then it stopped functioning.

All that time, he was on a lot of medication. He was started on 30 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

dialysis. At times, he received his treatments at home at night so that he could continue going to school.

Marcelo, or “Chelo” as everyone in the family calls him, wanted so much to live a normal life. His dream was to play football. He convinced his parents to let him have surgery on both legs to get them straightened. He was in a body cast for quite a while. During this time, he received home schooling. Eventually, his parents divorced and went their separate ways. He and his two sisters and brother went back and forth between the parents. He had yet another surgery on his legs during one of his stays with his mother. Marcelo continued his dialysis treatments, waiting for a kidney. More than once when he was staying with his dad, they would get a call from the hospital saying that they had a kidney that might be a match for him. Our son would rush him to the hospital, only to find out after further testing that it was not a match.

Finally, on October 2, 1999, they had a match for him. Again, we all waited and prayed as he got his second transplant. Again, it seemed that this time it was going to work. He continued going to school for a while, living with his mother in San Antonio. That was when he graduated. Sometime after that, he moved back with his dad in Floresville. He was even able to work, since he wasn’t on dialysis. Then he started having problems again. In October of 2004, he was started on dialysis once again. He continues to receive his treatments three times a week. I have heard that some people feel very weak and exhausted after dialysis.

Once in a while, Chelo calls me to either give him a ride to the dialysis center or to pick him up and take him home. When I do pick him up after his treatment, I ask him how he’s feeling. His answer is always, “I’m fine, Grandma.” I know he is. For someone whose doctors had not expected to live beyond his second birthday, the Lord has blessed him with twenty-eight years of life. He is strong in his faith, as he patiently waits for maybe a third kidney – one that will give him a life free from being hooked up to a machine. As a grandmother, I would feel so blessed if I were to live to see that.

Julia Castro is a freelance writer living in Floresville, TX. www.northtexasmagazines.com

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By Jackie Burson | Burson Counseling

Helping Your Child Successfully Navigate Through an Emotional Challenge Every child goes through emotional ups and downs as they grow up. As a parent, it can be difficult to adjust to the changes your child goes through because it causes your role as a parent to transform as well.

You can go from caregiver and protector to encourager in a blink of an eye, but in all stages you play a crucial role in helping your child with emotional support and problem solving.

Then What Do I Do?

Once your child opens up you can help identify the problem and work towards finding a solution, but always let your child take the lead in problem solving. When brainstorming for a solution, try writing it down. When your child is able to visually see it on paper, the discovery towards a solution will become more real to him or her. To find the most appropriate solution, offer to role-play the problem and possible solution for each choice. Discuss the consequences associated with every choice. This mode of self-discovery will help your child feel in control of the problem, the solution and

Yet just when you think you’ve got it all down, life can throw you a curve ball and you can get stuck. If your child is in crisis, you know there isn’t often an easy solution. There is a long list of struggles he or she could face including lack of motivation, ADHD, behavior

his or her own emotional state.

Do I Need To Change?

When you notice your child is struggling with behavioral difficul-

difficulties at school or home, difficulty dealing with your divorce,

ties at home, think about your discipline style. Try regaining some

issues with low self-esteem, anger outbursts, and/or depression/

of your parental power by strengthening the structure around your

anxiety. You know how to cope with the day-to-day hurdles of

child and his or her schedule and you may be surprised to see the

listening to your child and helping him or her solve problems, but

negative behavior subside. As much as kids scream about strict

challenges like these might be more than you can handle. It’s ok,

boundaries, they really need them in order to navigate the world

help is around the corner.

safely and securely. Without boundaries, the excessive freedom at

Where Do I Start?

a young age is so overwhelming that they may act up simply in order to regain them.

Parents are often the first to recognize when their child has an emotional or behavioral problem. But even if it’s your child’s

If you’ve tried changing your discipline style and feel as though

teacher who informs you of a potential challenge, when working

the inappropriate behaviors are persisting, develop a behavior plan

with your child’s emotional pain, your approach is the key. Start by

including a chart. Sit down with your child and discuss the expec-

gently engaging your child in a dialogue about his or her feelings.

tations you have for him or her and together, come up with four

When listening to your child, try to rephrase then repeat back what

daily goals he or she needs to achieve. When setting goals, discuss

he or she is saying. Avoid giving advice or criticizing, but rather

what is reasonable and ways he or she can meet these goals. When

focus on feelings with an empathetic tone. You might try saying, “It

your child is successful, rewards may work well - which, by the way,

sounds like you feel angry because _____.” Sometimes kids simply

do not have to be tangible. If you decide to implement a reward

need to feel heard. When you allow your child to freely express his

system, just remember to have consequences in place as well if

or her thoughts and provide a non-judgmental attitude, he or she

goals are not met. For younger children use daily rewards, weekly

will feel encouraged to open up.

rewards work better for older children. By discussing the plan with

32 mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009

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your child beforehand, it allows him or her to take some responsibility for their choices along with clearly defined expectations.

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reality, counseling is a process requiring much work on the client’s part as well as the therapist. It is essential to understand change will happen, but in due time. Usually after several months change is evident by a deeper understanding of one’s self, greater sense of control, use of coping skills and/or change in thinking.

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Psychotherapy involves a specialized technique which is effective in helping your child cope with a wide range of difficulties. The goal of therapy is to produce lasting change in your child’s life. In the beginning, the therapist strives to develop a trusting relationship with your child, one in which they feel comfortable sharing.

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Because the relationship with the therapist is so essential to the

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feels a connection, can trust and feels safe. Be sure to find a therapist you feel comfortable with as well, since parents tend to and should be an important part of the therapeutic process.

The most appropriate form of treatment for children ages three to 12 is Play Therapy. Expecting a child to come into a counselor’s

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office and feel comfortable sitting on a couch and talking is unrealistic. Play therapy is to children what counseling is to adults. Play is a child’s natural mode of communication due to their limited cognitive level and verbal skills. Play Therapists offer a wide variety of toys and materials in their office including aggressive, real-life and creative/expressive items. As children play and interact with toys or utilize expressive arts activities, therapy takes place. Play Therapists look for themes in children’s play to understand what they are internally experiencing. Play Therapists are also a wise choice for teenagers to help with processing through the use of expressive arts activities. Once trust and rapport is established, goals are set for treatment and each session moves your child or teenager closer to reaching these goals.

You know your child better than anyone else. Just because you’ve exhausted your own resources for helping your child through a difficult time, doesn’t mean you’re not a good parent. In fact, realizing that you need to seek additional help and going through the process of finding and participating in therapy with your child shows you care and won’t give up on him or her. The world we live in can be a scary place for everyone, especially children and teenagers. With the right help...from the right therapist and with you by his or her side, your child can begin to heal his pain and live a fulfilling life.

For more information on Play Therapy visit www.a4pt.org.

Jackie Burson, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. www.bursoncounseling.com • Jackie@bursoncounseling.com • 214-926-2184 www.northtexasmagazines.com

mckinneykidsmagazine August/September 2009 33

By Myrna Haskell

The Clothes War It was sometime in the early 80s when I first saw a kid come into school with black spiked hair, bondage pants, and black lipstick. Everyone stared.

We didn’t know it was cool to be Goth yet. Then it caught on and there were a bunch of vampires prowling the high school hallways.

Today, Fruit of the Loom is fashionable. What’s THAT all about? Even those of us who wore hip huggers in the 70s knew enough to keep our underwear from showing! Fashion for girls is just as bad. The skirts and shorts have gotten so high this season that the pocket lining is hanging out! The t-shirts are equally ridiculous. They are so thin that my teenage daughter has to wear three of them to keep her bra from showing through!

Where do teens get their absurd fashion ideas? They get their inspiration from the same sources we used to get ours – stores catering to the adolescent crowd, TV, and magazines. What’s the problem then? Well, the celebrity teens of the millennium are nothing like the Brady Bunch. Lindsay Lohan and Kim Kardashian are far from squeaky clean. In just eight years, popular TV shows have gone from what is now considered the fairly tame Dawson’s Creek to the racy Gossip Girl. The stores aren’t displaying modest choices on their racks either. Even the bags are rated R. If you’re over 35, it’s downright embarrassing to carry around your Abercrombie purchase! With this kind of imagery constantly thrown at teens, it’s no wonder they’re attracted to these risqué and often inappropriate styles.

Teens want to look like their peers, and their peers want to look like the celebrities they see spattered throughout the media. Clothing for teens is about making personal choices and breaking with “convention” (a.k.a. their parents). Individuality and independence are good qualities, but teens must realize that their fashion choices make public statements.

Even if parents don’t agree with their teen’s clothing choices, it’s imperative to allow him some freedom to choose a personal style. When is it necessary to put the clamps on the latest fad then?

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Dr. Mary Ann LoFrumento, a pediatrician and creator of Simply Parenting, a book and DVD series designed to bring parenting back to basics, explains, “All teens need to define their identities apart from their parents. Common ways to do

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this are to change hairstyles and color, or get piercings and tattoos. Clothing styles are another common way for teens to be different from their parents. They claim to be expressing their individuality, and yet they often dress exactly like one another or like the latest teen idol.” Dr. LoFrumento says that teens should be allowed to express themselves through clothing choices without too much criticism from their parents. However, there are boundaries that need to be set.

Most parents will probably agree that enforcing a level of decorum in certain types of environments is necessary. Just saying “no” because you think something is ugly, is probably not the best idea.

“Parents should offer an opinion if they do not like a style.

They can say, ‘I can’t say I really like that outfit on you, however, I respect your fashion choices,’” says LoFrumento.

However, she advocates clear-cut expectations for certain settings. “When it comes to school, religion class, or family

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Parents should set appropriate fashion boundaries just like they do with other issues.”

“Is it life threatening or morally threatening?

If the answer is no, BACK OFF!” Abigail Reip, Boxborough, MA If your teen’s clothing choices cause constant battles, it’s time to have a serious talk about it. Find out where her choices are coming from. In turn, help her to understand your issues about public persona and respect. If teens know they have a reasonable amount of freedom to choose their own style, and parents are consistent with the limits they set, there will probably be less angst and rebellion.

LoFrumento suggests, “Let them have their choices within boundaries which you set. Then just relax and enjoy your teens as they start to grow into their own selves.”

Myrna Haskell is a freelance writer and mother of two. Her work has appeared in national and regional publications throughout the United States and Canada. www.northtexasmagazines.com

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