MetroFamily Magazine January 2012

January 2012

Our

BIG

Education Guide Over 60 private schools, field trips & enrichment programs

Classroom-tested discipline tactics you can use at home

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The OKC Museum of Art celebrates 10 years metrofamilymagazine.com

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January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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• Click

what’s new at metrofamilymagazine.com CALENDAR DIRECTORIES BLOGS CONTESTS MOTHER LODE

Mark your calendar now for MetroFamily’s Kids Fest scheduled for Saturday, March 24th from 10am-4pm. You and your family will enjoy a family expo atmosphere, stage entertainment, inflatables and hands-on FUN at this one-of-a-kind event. Co-sponsored by Parents Assistance Center and Single Parents Support Network, the event also features a Safety Village provided

by Oklahoma Safe Kids and a Character Corner where kids and families will enjoy creative projects designed to teach about positive character traits.

Your business or service can take advantage of early-bird specials by reserving your booth before January 31st. Call us TODAY to insure availability (405-601-2081 or info@metrofamilymagazine.com).

Weekend Fun in your Inbox Have you subscribed to Weekend Picks yet? Each week, this e-newsletter provides you with our top 10 familyfriendly events in the metro, plus current info from our website, contests, coupons, five things to add to your calendar for the coming week and more.

Sign up at metrofamilymagazine.com/ subscribe-to-weekend-picks and have the fun delivered right to your inbox.

The only thing better than Family Fun is FREE Family Fun Find all the FREE family fun opportunities around the OKC area at our new webpage, www. metrofamilymagazine.com/free. This page is filled with free activities and events as well as reader suggestions on places to go and things to do that require little or no cash, including a list of restaurants with “kids eat free” nights.

Also, catch our popular Friday Freebies deals here—it’s a fugal mama’s favorite!

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents at

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

You could WIN big!

Sign up to be eligible for these great prizes at metrofamilymagazine.com/ contests.

• Enter to win one of two family fourpacks to opening night of “The Adams Family” musical (January 17-22) at Civic Center Music Hall and brought to OKC by Celebrity Attractions.

Deadline is January 10, 5pm.

• Four family four-packs of tickets are available to see the Harlem Globetrotters on January 22nd.

Deadline is January 12, 5pm.

• Our January Giveaway features many fantastic family- and kid-friendly products, all valued at over $375.

Deadline is January 19.

• Pop star and Edmond native Greyson Chance will perform a benefit concert on January 28th. Enter to win one of two four-packs of tickets by January 20, 5pm.

• Watch for MetroFamily’s appearance on FOX 25’s morning show mid-month and enter to win a prize pack of cool Problem-Solving Products worth over $200.

• Enter to win a great prize pack of “green” family products from Green Bambino worth $140. Deadline is January 31, 5pm.

You could SAVE big!

Find valuable coupons to these businesses at metrofamilymagazine. com/okc-family-discounts.

• Club Z • Skills for Living • Bouncin’ Craze • Play Nation playground sets • Jump!Zone • Gymboree classes • GattiTown • Dr. Mark Youngker, Orthodontist PLUS, save at over 30 Oklahoma attractions with Kids Pass!

Contents The Education Guide

Photo courtesy of Downtown OKC, Inc.

January 2012

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12 16 26

Do you wonder how your child’s teacher keeps a classroom of kids in line when you have trouble with one child at home? Discover discipline tips from teachers that can work for you.

Happy 10th anniversary to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art! A look back at the history of the museum and a peek of what’s to come.

Just in time for enrollment and a new semester comes our BIG Education Guide, complete with listings for private schools, field trip venues and enrichment programs.

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Dear MetroFamily

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Family Shorts

Editor’s Note

Community news, resources & other family-friendly information.

14 Your Healthy Family

Seasonal wellness: when to use Urgent Care plus products for fighting germs.

18 Real Moms of the Metro

Meet Kandi Allred: US Air Force officer, wife and mom.

20 Oklahoma Reads Great reads for all.

22 Exploring Oklahoma Explore the Old West at the Ft. Smith National Historical Site.

24 Ask the Expert

How do you tame your tots when out running errands?

The experts—and our readers—weigh in.

36 Focus on Education NeuroNet: how physical movement helps students focus.

39 Calendar

Fun events, activities and classes.

46 Photo Gallery

Our readers share their favorite generational photos.

ON OUR COVER: Ashtyn, a 6th grader, is the daughter of Brad and Vicky Stone, Edmond. She and her siblings are homeschooled.

PHOTO BY: Randy Coleman, www.randycolemanphotography.com

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily, Take a moment, just slow down, sit still and breathe. It’s a new year, promising a full slate of new blessings, adventures and challenges.

Like most people, I like to reflect on the past year as the new year approaches, and I’m thankful to have made it to this point, with just a few bumps and bruises. 2011 was the year of ice storms, earthquakes and heat waves. It was the year that my husband retired from the Air Force, the year that I stepped outside of my comfort zone and tried new things and the year that I said goodbye to my father and my grandmother.

I want 2012 to be the year that I finally get organization into my life, in at least one small way. I believe that if I can get one area organized, it will spill over into other areas of life. One way I hope to do this is with my children. If I can get them organized enough to keep them on the right track, I’ll be ahead of the game. And I plan to use the 10 tips outlined in our “Teacher Discipline Tips” (page 12) article to start the year off on the right foot.

Another goal for this year is to take care of myself and find time to do something I love; to put myself first every now and then. One of my favorite things to do in Oklahoma City is to visit the Museum of Art, and this month coincides with the re-opening of the Dale Chihuly exhibit at the museum. This year also marks the museum’s 10th anniversary, and we offer a look back at how the venue has grown (page 16).

What do you hope this new year holds for you? Whatever it holds, we hope you include MetroFamily in your journey this year.

Cheers, Photos, from top: Spencer and Lauren at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on a mild day in January; finding smiles with my siblings at dad’s memorial (back row: Kristi, Juli, Teri, Tami; front row: me, Randy, Lori); an afternoon in Milwaukee on the shores of Lake Michigan; Spencer and Lauren in Mississippi at Thanksgiving.

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Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Amy Lou Tuzicka ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor & Online Content Manager Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, June Corrigan, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields, Tiffany Guerzon, Sarah Holmes, Karen Mitchell, Jill Smokler Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: 405-445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com

P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2012, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 15, Number 1

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

Resolutions for the New Year With each new year comes an opportunity for reflection, goal-setting and a renewed focus on things we wish to change or accomplish in ourselves or our lives. The making of resolutions often goes hand-inhand with New Years celebrations and can help us set our mind to make the coming year even better than the one before.

New Mobile App for School Districts For parents in Oklahoma City and Norman Public Schools, a free mobile app is improving communication between the school and parents, providing direct access to student grades, class schedules, school lunch menus and messages directly from individual schools and school districts.

Developed by School Connect, a Norman-based business that specializes in K-12 mobile application development, the app is available to Apple and Android users. It first debuted in Norman Public Schools in October 2011 and became a top 25 free education app at the Apple app store within 24 hours of its release. The app debuted to parents in the Oklahoma City Public Schools in December.

According to School Connect, nearly three dozen school districts in Oklahoma and Ohio have signed Letters of Intent to have the company develop apps for their districts. “We knew it was filling a communications void with school districts,” explains School Connect founder Steve McDaniel. “Since we provide the app for free to the districts, we knew that barrier could be removed. The speed of acceptance [of the new app] has been amazing.”

Funded by school- and family-friendly advertising revenue, the app will always be free to school districts and free for mobile users to download. “School Connect is excited, our school districts with planned launches are excited, and we are being approached by more and more districts every day.” McDaniel said. “Our goals are to provide the app to any school district that wants it regardless of where they are located, and to continue to work with our partner districts to evolve it to be even more useful to parents, students, and our partners’ communities. Our partners are undoubtedly taking school communication, transparency and accountability to a much higher level.”

School districts in the Oklahoma City metro scheduled to receive the app in the near future include Edmond, Bethany, Yukon, MidDel, Putnam City and Deer Creek. For more information, visit www. schoolconnectapps.com

Question of the Month:

What is your best strategy to deal with sibling rivaly?

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/fs-giveaway to fill in the blank and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at $375.

Deadline to enter is Thursday, January 19.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website. The full contents of the prize package are listed on the entry form.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

Our December Question of the Month asked our readers to share how you will commit to improving your life in 2012. An overwhelming 40 percent of readers indicated that they would focus on health in this coming year, making choices to eat healthier, exercise or resolve existing health challenges. The next largest category of responses was a tie between having fun and helping others, indicating that a combined 28 percent of readers will focus on both enjoying life and making a difference in the coming year. Getting organized will be top priority for over 12 percent, with honing creativity and getting/ completing an education each garnering nearly 6 percent of responses.

What are your resolutions for the new year?

135 Total Responses

Health, 40% Health, 40%

Organization, 12.6%

Organization, 12.6%

Helping Others, 14.1%

Helping Others, 14.1%

Fun, 14.8% Fun, 14.8% Education, 5.9%5.9% Education, Creativity, 5.2%

Creativity, 5.2%

Other, 7.4%

Other, 7.4%

Our readers shared more about the areas of their life that they will commit to improving in the next year: Health and creativity go hand-in-hand for Kelly T. of Edmond. “I have pledged to cook a new meal every week and try to make it healthy!”

For Anne B. of Edmond, education will be the main focus. “Even though I am 49 years old, I am seriously considering going back to school to become a nurse. I have seen some friends start careers later in life and I have always wanted to be a nurse!”

A creative new endeavor is on tap for Todd M. of Moore. “I am really looking to write a children's book with my daughter this year.”

Making time for fun is top priority for Denise H. of Edmond. “My children are growing up quickly, one will graduate from high school next year, and I want to fill their year with fun family memories. I hope to take more family trips and just have time that we will be spending together, interacting with one another.”

For Jody B. of Wellston, having fun is the key to better health. “My son and I will strive to become more active in our everyday life by doing fun things with one another and just going outside to play.

Whether this means taking a walk or throwing a ball back and forth, we will become more active and in turn healthier people.”

One category just can’t contain all the goals that Bethany W. of Norman has set for 2012. “I would have to pick education, health, and fun. I am currently pursuing a degree in Business, am on my way to bettering my health, and I want to show my kids that although there is a lot going on, we still have time for fun.”

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/december-reader-responses to read more about how the resolutions our readers have set for 2012.

Problem-Solvers When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:

With all the sandwich bags you go through, you should own a landfill.

Solution:

Re-Pac Bags come in three sizes, are washable and reusable. Perfect for everything from snacks to office supplies. ($6-$8; www.re-pacbags.com)

Problem:

Naptime at preschool is not as restful as it could be.

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.

Character Corner: Determination

~ unknown

Solution:

Sometimes I think that my New Year’s Resolutions should be called “over-commitments and under-achievements.” Instead of reaching my resolutions with determination, I tend to be very easily distracted or discouraged from my grand plans to completely change my life.

Problem:

My cleaning schedule is immaculate, but my house is not. My fitness program is tight, but my waistline is not. My meal plans are amazing, but my dinners are not.

Determination means working through troubles to reach your goals. Determination requires making goals as well as sticking to them. So not only do I need to scale down and pick only a couple of measurable and attainable goals, but I also need to change my mindset. This year I resolve to be a better example to my children by carrying out my resolutions more resolutely.

My Nap Pak is custom-made and personalized so your preschooler can get a restful nap when not at home. ($50; www.mynappak.com) You ran out of room in your diaper bag for the diapers!

Solution:

Carry Diaper Buds, portable diapers that are small enough to stash in your diaper bag and anywhere else you might need them. ($6/8-9 diapers, depending on size; www.diaperbuds.com)

Problem:

You want to breastfeed but can’t find a convertible shirt that works.

Solution:

Create your own convertible tank with Undercover Mama which clips to the straps of your nursing bra to make any shirt a nursing shirt. ($25; www.undercovermama.com)

Problem:

There must be a pea under your little princess’ car seat, because she refuses to behave.

Solution:

Let her find her inner princess with Play Draw Create Princesses, a reusable drawing and magnet kit that will keep her entertained in the car and everywhere else. ($17; www.innovativekids.com)

Problem:

You started your New Year’s diet but really would like a snack!

Solution:

Try Brad’s Raw Leafy Kale chips for a healthy and satisfying snack food option. ($17; www. innovativekids.com)

Help Your Family Develop Determination Family Traditions: Decide together what family traditions you want to have this year. Ideas might include “Dates with Dad or Mom” for your kids, monthly “Family Fun Nights,” or “Sunday Night Ice Cream Sundaes.” Mark it on the calendar and make it a priority. Ask all family members to participate in choosing your traditions.

Game/Activity: Try the “Overcoming Obstacles” game. Make an obstacle course using things you have at home (cones, jump ropes, hula hoops) or use the local playground. As your kids run the course, talk to them about how the path of life is full of obstacles—difficulties and distractions that can discourage us from reaching our goals. Make sure those who complete their “goal” get rewarded for their determination.

Stories that Teach Determination: Check your local library or book store for these titles: The Little Engine that Could by Watty Piper, Horton Hatches an Egg & Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss, The Little Hero of Holland by Etta and Mary Blaisdell, Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan and The Little Red Hen, author unknown.

Object Lesson: Play “Determined Dominoes.” Use this lesson to help your kids understand that part of reaching your goal involves completing smaller steps along the way. Set several dominoes up in a row with a few missing in the middle. Push over the first domino. Part of the row will fall and then they will stop because of the missing ones. Explain to your kids how each step is important in reaching your goal, and to try again if the goal is not met. Fill in the missing dominoes, and try it again.

“I will” statements: Encourage determination in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

I will: Set goals • Make sure my goals are right • Ignore distractions • Not be discouraged by others • Face problems head-on.

Sarah Holmes lives in Norman and is the founder of Wildflowers Character Resources.

Find more at www.growingcharacter.com. The “I Will” statements are provided courtesy of Character First (www.characterfirst.org).

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Photos provided by Science Museum Oklahoma.

Not June Cleaver? No worries!

Five tips for faking it My own mother never took the easy way out. All of her cakes were baked from scratch, and until we wouldn’t allow it, our Halloween costumes were completely handmade. She did all of her gardening and even our Chinese food was freshly made at home.

As a kid, I looked down on my friends with mothers who relied on Betty Crocker or polyester ready-to-wear ensembles. My mother loved me enough to do everything from scratch for me. I won! And, I knew exactly what kind of mother I wanted to be ...

It turns out that I am not that mother at all. Not even close. Yet, somehow, people often think that I am. Here are my magic tips on how to appear to be an exceptional mother, without actually being one: 1.

Every time your child brings home a work of art from school, stick it in a drawer. When you need a homemade card or present for the grandparents, take one out and personalize it with their name.

They’ll never know it wasn’t made just for them and you can save nagging your child for another time.

Win, win!

$1 Million Gift to Help Transform Science Museum Oklahoma Over the next five years, Science Museum Oklahoma (SMO) will invest $30 million in new exhibits and facilities, evolving into a science museum of national prominence. Once complete, families will experience a new main entrance to the museum and major permanent exhibits designed to inspire a love of the wonder and relevance of science in young children. To help achieve this goal, the museum recently received a $1 million gift from Love’s Travel Stops.

“Love’s is excited to announce a $1 million donation to support renovations and improvements to Science Museum Oklahoma,” said Jenny Love Meyer, Director of Communications for Love’s Travel Stops. “The Science Museum is a true educational gem serving children and families in Oklahoma. This partnership furthers Love’s commitment to support education and youth-focused programs in our home state.” Headquartered in Oklahoma City and founded in 1964, Love’s Travel Stops is an entirely family-owned and operated business with more than 280 locations in 39 states.

“Science Museum Oklahoma’s message is, ‘You are important. What you learn, how you play, and where you grow with your family is important,’” said James Farris, Science Museum Oklahoma Board Chair. “The gift from Love’s supports our commitment to providing the best interactive learning environment possible.”

2. Add a cup of sour cream to any boxed cake mix to make it taste homemade. Someone gave me this tip years ago and it works like a charm. Use the cake mix with homemade frosting. Nobody will be the wiser.

Planned changes to the museum will include a major transformation to the museum’s exterior and lobby. While the new permanent exhibits will be designed with young children in mind, activities will also provided to educate and entertain older siblings and their parents.

3.

Products to Help Your Kids with Resolutions

Stock up on clearance or Dollar Store toys and create a secret gift closet. Use it for last-minute party gifts and impromptu pick-me-ups.

4.

Brush up on your fort-building skills. It will save you during sick days and snow storms.

5.

Make a “Rainy Day Bucket.” Fill it with new crayons, markers, paper, Play Doh, fun scissors and the like.

Just when the kids are about to drive you certifiably insane, whip it out and let them have at it. Sit back and relish in your genius.

Read more from Jill Smokler at www. scarymommy.com.

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For more information Science Museum Oklahoma, call 405-602-6664, or visit www. sciencemuseumok.org.

Parents, we’re always making resolutions, aren’t we? Help your kids to make the most of their new year! Following are some products that can help your kids make—and meet!—their own resolutions.

• Resolve to communicate with your kids with the CareMail Mailbox ($20) and LetzTalk Cards ($10), which can be used to customize communication in your family. (www. letztalknow.com) • Resolve to help your kids communicate with others using the Smilegram Color Me Happy stationery set ($10) and writing tablet ($9). A great way to keep in touch with the family members you may have visited with over the holidays. (www.smilepapergram.com) • Resolve to learn something new while playing with the Scholastic Magic School Bus Oceans game for Nintendo DS ($20), featuring all of the characters your child knows from the popular book and PBS series. (www.scholastic.com) • Resolve to help them stay organized with Stickr Pockets ($15), repositionable pockets that stick on your wall and help keep papers—like those field trip permission slips—in place. (www.butchandharold.com) • Resolve to help them have good table manners with Golly Gee-Pers Table Manners Cards ($15), which turn great manners into a fun game that kids will want to win. (www.gollygeepers.com)

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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What Kids Really Learn in Preschool

By June Corrigan

Preschool certainly looks like a lot of fun but you may be wondering: will my child really learn anything? And in today’s tough economic climate, is it worth the expense? Most definitely, say early-childhood experts, who insist that play is the ideal way for 3- and 4-year-olds to develop essential academic and social skills. Here are some of the important lessons young children will absorb under the guise of play.

1.

How to behave at school. The typical preschool classroom can seem pretty chaotic to a casual observer, but there are still rules and routines. “Preschoolers learn how to postpone acting on their first impulse which is so essential,” says Lilian G. Katz, Ph.D., Professor Emerita & co-director of the Clearinghouse on Early Education and Parenting (CEEP) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

They begin to understand the concept of taking turns and, pretty soon, everyday tasks like lining up to go outside and sitting in a circle for story-time become second nature.

2. How to ask for help. By the age of 3 or 4, most children are adept at asking for help at home. But what happens at school when a shoe becomes untied or they don’t quite make it to the bathroom? “In preschool, children have the opportunity to acquire and polish the social skills they’ll need to interact successfully with adults, particularly adults they don’t know,” says Dr. Katz. Research shows that a positive experience with a first teacher helps children gain confidence and form productive relationships with future teachers and adults.

3.

4.

5.

How to investigate and explore. Endless opportunity for learning exists during playtime. “The optimum environment is both fun and educational and the astute teacher sets out to create just that,” says Stella Leonard, director of the Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church Preschool and Kindergarten in Palm Desert, CA. “It’s what play-based learning is all about. Measuring cups should always be within reach in the sandbox—that’s an elementary math lesson right there. And introduction to science happens when children are encouraged to follow the flight path of a butterfly who happens upon the playground or to study a ladybug up close.”

How to make friends. You’re probably in the habit of setting up playdates for your youngster, but preschool gives him the chance to forge friendships on his own and settle differences without the help of a parent or caregiver.

“Preschoolers learn how to approach other children and be comfortable around them,” says Dr. Katz. As time passes, they’ll figure out how to start up a conversation by focusing on the other person so that initial interactions become less a case of one-upmanship. Asking “What are you doing?” will win him more friends than the conversation starter “I can dig a deeper hole than that” ever will, but children only gain this social savvy through trial and error amongst their peers.

How to be independent. In the interest of time management, many parents tend to automatically help their 3- or 4-year olds with the small tasks of everyday life, such as fastening buttons and zippers or opening a packaged snack. But preschool teachers, who may need to get 12 or more kids quickly into their coats and out onto the playground, encourage students to take more responsibility.

“Children learn how to put on their own jackets, open their own juice boxes, and remember to wash their hands after going to the bathroom,” says Leonard. Early practice in self-care skills will boost your child’s confidence in other settings such as a visit to a friend’s house where you’re not around to intercede. It will make your life easier too!

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

Ten Places to Play Indoors This Winter When the weather outside is frightful, parents often have to think creatively about how to keep their children engaged and entertained.

We polled our readers for great indoor play places in the OKC metro and here are their top choices: 1.

Local library

2.

Unpluggits

3.

Chuck E. Cheese

4.

Play areas in malls (Crossroads, Sooner and Quail Springs)

5.

GattiTown

6.

Science Museum Oklahoma

7.

Jump!Zone or Bouncin Craze

8. Journey Church indoor play area (I-35 & Tecumseh Rd, Norman) 9. Andy Alligator’s Fun Park 10. HeyDay Entertainment Center Another frequently mentioned place? Your own dining room—and making a tent out of the table, chairs and bed sheet!

Thanks to @UCOGradSchool, @faeriegirlie, Melissa S., Kami M., Christa M., Lara G., Erica G., Jennifer S., Christina S. and College Nannies & Tutors of Edmond for contributing to this list. Join us at www.facebook.com/MetroFamily to share your thoughts for next month’s list.

Have a place you’d like to suggest? Comment on our website at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/indoor-play-places.

Bringing Parenting Support to the Workplace The Oklahoma City County Health Department’s new Productive Parents program is a solution-focused workplace parenting program for adults with child rearing responsibilities in both small and large businesses. “Being a parent isn’t always easy, and when employees are anxious and stressed out over parenting issues it can be difficult to focus on work. That’s why the Productive Parents program can be such a great benefit to both employees and employers,” explains Robyn Sears, Interim Program Administrator, Child Guidance at the Oklahoma City County Health Department.

“Because so many working parents have little time for attending parenting classes and contacting specialists for advice or encouragement, we want to bring the specialists to them,” explains Sears. “We are starting this program to make child development specialists, speech/language therapists and child psychological clinicians accessible to parents at their places of business.”

Professional child guidance staff meets with parents to answer questions and provide information regarding child development stages and milestones, positive discipline, bedtime routines and more. Referrals can be provided when further evaluation, treatment or additional support services are needed within a family.

For employers, the program offers benefits such as parents/caregivers who are less distracted by parenting worries and better able to focus and be productive; an increase of job satisfaction and loyalty by employees who feel supported and the ability to contribute to healthy families as the building block of a healthy community.

Productive Parents workshops can occur before, during or after work hours and include resources and parenting materials. A fee of $50 per hour, regardless of the number attending, covers the speaker’s time and materials. “We can come for a 30 minute brown bag lunch presentation, schedule consultations on an individual basis to take place during workers’ 15 minute breaks, or come to a specially scheduled meeting to present information requested by employees,” adds Sears.

Interested businesses can contact Child Guidance 405-419-4164 to schedule a personalized Productive Parents program.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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© Marion Wear | Dreamstime.com

Classroom-proven discipline tactics that you can use at home

Tried-and-tested methods used by professionals who know how to get rowdy children to quiet down, listen up and follow the rules.

Have you ever visited your child’s classroom and wondered how the teacher maintains order among so many children, when you can’t even get your two at home to mind? Realize your dream of jackets hung up, toys shared and children sitting quietly at the dinner table by following these ten classroom tips that work at home too.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a teacher who doesn’t rank discipline as their number one priority. “Discipline is paramount. You can’t run a classroom without it,” says Barbara Yeamans, a third-grade teacher from California.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

1. Discuss the Rules

5. Use Signals

“On the first day of school, I outline the basic rules,” says Barbara, “I also let students brainstorm to create a class mission statement.” She finds there is a greater inclination for children to want to behave when they feel part of the rule-making and discipline policies.

Unspoken cues that help focus a child’s attention, and redirect them to new tasks or away from questionable behavior are invaluable to teachers. “I raise my hand in the air and display fingers in a one, two, three count until I have their attention,” says Barbara. Some teachers tap out a few notes on a xylophone or tinkle a bell to elicit students’ response without ever having to say a word.

Julie Dill, Moore Public Schools board-certified teacher and MetroFamily Education Columnist agrees. “It’s important to allow children to become active participants while establishing the rules,” says Julie. “Ask them for ideas and give them a chance to express why they feel their idea is important.”

Parent Plan. With children who are old enough to reason, discuss what kind of behavior would help your household run best. Draw responses out of them. Asking “What will happen if you’re always running in the house?” might cause them to consider the accident that is bound to eventually happen. This will prove more effective than your reprimand of “Stop running in the house!” which, with no discussion, is destined to fall on deaf ears each time.

2. Post a Plan “If you review the day’s schedule first thing in the morning, it often eliminates the uncertainty of what’s to come,” says Julie.

“A plan is essential,” adds fourth grade teacher Patty Corrigan. “Not only does it give structure to the day but it calms a child to know what is coming up next.” She lists the order of activities on a white board for students to reference: Reading, 9:00am. Math, 10:00am. Recess, 10:45am. If she forgets to write something down, the children often remind her to add it to the list.

Parent Plan. Outline your daily and weekly plans on a calendar or dry-erase board in the kitchen. It’ll help your household have an idea of what’s coming up next whether it’s a piano lesson at 4:00pm, soccer game at 5:30pm or a visit to Grandma’s house on Sunday. Let your kids add stickers or draw pictures on the schedule. Everyone will feel more comfortable having a general idea of what to expect.

3. Create Routines “Everything runs more smoothly with firm routines in place,” says Lori Anapoell, a literacy teacher. When children know what to do and when to do it, fewer behavior issues crop up and independence is fostered.

Parent Plan. Identify the tasks you expect your children to complete everyday, and walk them through the steps to be specific about what is expected of them.

“Children crave structure and order,” says Julie. “A bedtime procedure could be as simple as: brush teeth, change into pajamas, quiet reading time.” Walk children through the steps (how much toothpaste to use, where to put their dirty clothes, how much time is available for reading). “When this becomes a habit, less energy is spent on repeated reminders.”

4. Switch Gears Slowly Switching from one task to another can be difficult for kids who tend to get absorbed in what they are doing. “Ease into a transition slowly,” cautions Lori. She often counts down, advising students they have a few minutes left before they need to stop one activity and start another.

Julie agrees. “When moving from one activity to another, it’s important to keep children engaged. A song or chant can be helpful, keeping children focused on something positive can often eliminate bad behavior,” says Julie.

Parent Plan. If your child is busy coloring, don’t suddenly tell her to drop everything and go take a bath. Instead tell her bathtime is in ten minutes and she’ll need to finish her drawing and begin putting her crayons away soon. Set a kitchen timer and remind her again when time is almost up.

Parent Plan. Come up with some nonverbal prompts such as a few notes on a harmonica or flicking the light switch to let your children know when it’s time to settle down, clean up or even come to the table for dinner. Find something you’re comfortable with, use it consistently and give your voice a rest!

6. Reward Good Behavior “Verbal praise helps build confidence, reminds children of expectations and promotes good decisions for the right reasons,” says Julie.

Instead of constantly harping on students’ shortcomings, education professionals prefer to practice positive reinforcement.

“When I would see a child picking up trash on the playground or displaying good manners at lunchtime, I’d hand them a ticket from my good guy basket,” says Dr. Susan Mahler, a retired principal and former kindergarten teacher. “The goal was to collect five tickets and earn a special reward such as an extra recess.”

Parent Plan. When your child picks up her toys or clears her plate from the table without prompting, recognize her efforts. Say “Good job!” Every so often reward her good behavior with something more tangible such as a small toy. Praise the things she does right so she’ll do them again.

7. Stay a Step Ahead Recognizing and heading off potential problems is what teachers do best. “When I have a student who is too chatty, I’ll seat her with quiet, focused kids,” says Lori. “I’ve given some real fidgety kids a squishy ball to squeeze while I teach a lesson and some have even been allowed to chew gum. It makes a huge difference in their behavior.”

Parent Plan. Identify the times your child is likely to misbehave and prepare strategies to avert the problem. If she’s prone to meltdowns in the supermarket, have some crackers or a book on hand. Or put her in charge of placing items in the cart. Staying one step ahead and preventing problems from happening in the first place is what effective discipline is really all about—both in and out of school.

More Tricks of the Trade:

How to get kids to:

• Sit still. If your child won’t sit still at the dinner table, point to other family members who are quietly seated. “Always model appropriate behavior and if you can use another child to illustrate, all the better,” says teacher Patty Corrigan.

• Pay attention. Wait to speak until your child stops what she is doing and focuses her eyes on you. Teacher Barbara Yeamans says, “One, Two, Three—Eyes on me” To which her students are trained to respond, “One, Two—Eyes on you.”

• Stop Tattling. Create a tattle box where kids can drop in messages or pictures about a sibling’s or another child’s wrong-doing. “This gives kids some satisfaction of ‘telling’ without you having to listen,” says Teacher Lori Anapoell.

Freelance writer June Allan Corrigan is a former kindergarten teacher who has used these tactics on her own two children with great success.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Your Healthy Family When should you visit Urgent Care?

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e’ve all been there as parents…when a child becomes ill on a weekend or seems to get markedly worse after the doctor has gone home for the day, we may find ourselves questioning whether waiting until the next business day is a good idea.

When fevers spike unusually high, ankles get twisted, or when the crying just won’t stop, many people are opting to use Urgent Care centers instead of waiting for the doctor’s office to open or heading to the emergency room. Over the past two decades, Urgent Care facilities have responded to an increased demand for cost-effective, accessible medical care. Still, many parents and caregivers have questions about how to handle after-hour medical concerns.

What is Urgent Care?

Urgent Care clinics first began to appear in the United States in the 1970s, and have become an increasingly important part of the healthcare industry. Urgent Care centers provide ambulatory care on a walk-in basis, and usually have hours that extend beyond those of a traditional primary-care provider.

These facilities generally accept patients of all ages and treat a broad-spectrum of illness and injuries. Some have the ability to perform minor procedures, and most have diagnostic services such as phlebotomy (blood work) and x-ray available on-site.

How does Urgent Care Differ?

Dr. Bill Buffington is the director of PhysicianCare PM, a small, privately owned Urgent Care facility in Edmond. After graduating from the OU College of Medicine in 1985, Dr. Buffington did his postgraduate

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training in Family Medicine. As a member of the Army Reserve, Dr. Buffington received additional training in traumarelated medicine and developed an interest in Emergency Medicine. He went on to work in several Emergency Room settings before switching to Urgent Care in 2002. In 2007, he partnered with a group of local physicians and founded PhysicianCare PM. “Urgent Care facilities should be utilized for anything you would see your primary care physician (PCP) for, plus minor trauma and lacerations. Waiting times are usually less and the cost to patients or insurance carriers is significantly lower than emergency room care,” says Buffington. “Urgent Care should not be used to replace a patient’s primary care physician, nor can they offer the degree of comprehensive care of an emergency room. Anyone who thinks they are having a heart attack, stroke, or might be ill enough to be admitted to the hospital should go directly to the ER,” he cautions. However, minor injuries and illnesses must be put to the back of the line due to the severity of more emergent cases that come into the ER. “These conditions are where Urgent Care comes in handy to lessen the load of the ER and provide timely and appropriate care to patients,” says Buffington.

Most cuts, sprains and strains can easily be treated at Urgent Care facilities, as well as any illness that would cause you to schedule a visit with your PCP. With regard to injuries, those which are often sustained in minor automobile or household accidents, or while working out or playing sports can generally be assessed at an Urgent Care center. If a broken bone is suspected, most Urgent Care

facilities can diagnose and stabilize the injury and provide a referral to an orthopedic specialist. If you’re uncertain as to whether an injury falls into this category, use your best judgement. Pain level is often a good indicator.

“Urgent Care providers are very conscious of their shortcomings when dealing with serious injuries and ailments, and will quickly send you to an ER or even call 911 when necessary,” says Buffington. Still, he notes, “waiting all weekend to see your PCP when you are ill is not prudent. The treatment is sometimes more difficult and the illness may become more severe.” In addition, he notes that “primary care providers can be overwhelmed on Mondays, and treatment may be delayed even further as a result. For parents, I tell them anything they would not wait to treat in their children, they should not wait to treat for themselves.”

Bottom line? Urgent Care centers are a great option for illness and injuries that occur after hours or on weekends for patients of all ages. They offer treatment options for minor injuries and common illnesses at a fraction of the cost of emergency care, often with shorter wait times and without an appointment.

There’s no reason to suffer through until Monday morning anymore, just to avoid a trip to the ER. Shannon Fields is a freelance writer from Edmond and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

Health and Wellness Problem-Solving Products

Get your new year off to a healthy start! Here are some products that solve some common cold-weather health problems.

• If your little ones are feeling low, the Thermatherapy Buddy Teddy can be heated in the microwave or chilled in the freezer to help her feel better. ($20; www.carex.com) • Feeling germophobic? The Pocket Purifier is a portable UV germ killer that will help in the war on illnesses. ($12; www.purelyproducts.com) • If your medical maladies are more of the mishap variety, the Topricin Kids First Aid Kit includes “Make Ur Own” bandages and topical homeopathic first aid creams. ($20; www.topricin.com) • If dad sneezed on your iPod again, make sure to have a Fuse Antibacterial Screen Guard in place to protect you. ($ /2 iPhone or iPod cover, $ /2 iPad; www.fuseplusyou. com) • If alcohol-laden hand sanitizers are leaving you with cracked skin, try BabyGanics’ The Germinator Foaming Hand Sanitizer that keeps you germ-free and softskinned. ($7; www.babyganics.com) • That cough medicine you gave your daughter has been declared unsafe, but Hyland’s Cold ’n Cough 4 Kids offers all-natural relief for children ages 2 and up. ($7; www. hylands.com)

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Photo by Joseph Mills Photography.

10

YEARS

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Celebrating 10 Years The Oklahoma Museum of Art (OKC MOA) as we know it today celebrated its grand opening on March 16, 2002, and over 10,000 visitors showed up that opening weekend.

“We didn’t do a major marketing campaign,” said OKC MOA Communications Director Leslie Spears, “and we didn’t know if people were going to come.” But they did come. In fact, the line to enter the museum stretched around the block. Everyone came out to see this new venue for art in Oklahoma City. And they continue to come today.

History Before opening this new building on the former site of the historic Centre Theater, the museum had a long and storied history, going back to the early 1900s when the Oklahoma Art League was begun. The League’s mission was to foster a love and taste for art in the city, and to establish a permanent museum of art.

By 1945, through fundraising campaigns by Oklahoma Art League members, the Oklahoma Art Center became a reality, and in the late 1950s, a new facility was built on the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds.

After a split in the late 1960s over the acquisition of a modern art collection, the museum combined once again in the late 1980s.

By the late 1990s, the Legacy Campaign was launched to raise funds for a new building, culminating in a groundbreaking for the newlynamed Oklahoma City Museum of Art at its current site in April, 2000.

Present When first approaching the museum, visitors are immediately greeted by the 55-foot tall Eleanor Blake Kirkpatrick Memorial Tower— exactly as the museum was planned. The tower, composed of 2,100 hand-blown pieces of glass, was created by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly specifically for the museum.

“The board wanted a focal piece of art,” said Whitney Cross, the museum’s current Associate Development Officer. “They wanted something that could be seen from both inside and outside.” The museum’s Executive Director at the time, Carolyn Hill, was

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

instrumental in acquiring the tower, as it was a conversation between Carolyn and Chihuly’s wife (who is from Oklahoma City) that led to the acquisition.

“Chihuly’s wife, Leslie Jackson, called on Carolyn and said that she had seen great installations of Chihuly’s work around the world and wondered why it hadn’t yet made it to her home city,” said Spears.

Chihuly and his architects then worked with the museum’s architects to create the structure and installation.

“Chihuly created the tower to represent Oklahoma,” explained Cross.

“He said the yellow represents the Oklahoma sun, with little pops of blue for the sky.”

Highlights of the Past 10 Years Since the OKC MOA has been open, the museum has been the site of many traveling exhibits. The first special exhibit presented was the Chihuly glass exhibit, which the museum eventually purchased for the permanent collection, and which was recently reopened to the public after being taken off exhibit in 2011. The museum raised over $3 million to make the purchase of the installation. “It was so popular that when it closed, museum visitors were disappointed that it wasn’t there when they would come to visit,” said Cross.

In 2003, the museum hosted the traveling exhibit of “George Washington: A National Treasure,” on loan from the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. “They chose us for the exhibit before we even broke ground because they were so impressed with the plan for our new building,” said Spears.

Beyond the Galleries The Museum also offers much more than the vast collections of art on display in 15 different galleries. The on-site gift store contains a variety of creative gift ideas for all ages, including books on art and artists and toys. The Museum Café is one of the few full-service restaurants open during the business day in the area. And the 252-seat theater is one of only 14 Art House theaters in the country that work with the Sundance Film Festival.

The museum also boasts many architectural features from the original Centre Theater.

“The Centre Theater was a glorious theater that opened in 1947,” said Spears. When the Museum purchased the location, “the architect figured out how to work in the elements (of the old theatre) and turn this into a perfect building for an art museum.”

Though much of the original building was deteriorated beyond the point of saving, many elements were incorporated into the new building—including the window grills and box office at the theater entrance, the staircase and etched Plexiglas panels leading up to the mezzanine level, and two water fountains which may be found on the mezzanine level.

Educational Opportunities Along with providing a world-class art and film venue, one major goal of the museum from the start has been to offer the community a place for learning.

“Opening weekend, our classrooms were a flurry of activity,” said Chandra Boyd, Senior Associate Curator of Education.“We had artist-led, hands-on art activities, including mask making and magic wands.”

Public art classes started up the following week, and while they were slow to start, they continued to gain popularity. “That first summer, we held just three camps; now we’re up to 20 plus sessions a year, not counting the school year breaks.” Classes offered include drawing, painting, printmaking, yoga and more, designed for all ages.

The museum also offers free (with paid museum entrance) Drop-In Art classes each weekend, and Family Days several times each year which combine hands-on art activities, story times and more, all connecting to a current exhibit on display. “Our family programs have been so exciting,” said Boyd.

“I love all the activities on those days, and I'm thrilled to have people bring their children to the museum and find ways to connect them to the arts. I have been trying to break down the barriers for families for years; art is for everyone!”

But the learning doesn’t just happen on-site at the museum. “The biggest impact we have added over the past 10 years has been in the area of community outreach,” said Boyd. “We have developed programs serving senior adults, patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other memory loss, families with critically ill children visiting The Zone at OU Children’s Hospital, at-risk youth visiting their local libraries, families participating in the Philharmonic’s Discovery Concert Series and teens who have joined our Youth Arts Advocates council. Getting to those who can’t get to us has been a big goal over the past few years.”

What’s to Come?

According to Spears, the Museum will continue to grow. The board of directors has a vision for the future, and museum programs will continue to be added to meet the needs of our city.

The New Frontiers series, which brings exhibits by living artists, will continue to bring the best in current art to Oklahoma. In February, the “Princely Treasures: European Masterpieces 1600-1800 from the Victoria and Albert Museum” exhibit will bring 80 objects that highlight courtly life in Europe; and in June, the “Fusion [A New Century of Glass]” exhibit will feature contemporary glass sculptures and installations.

“It’s the 10 year anniversary exhibition, and it’s an exhibit on glass that is not Chihuly glass,” said Spears. “It’s going to be different shapes and styles of glass art, which echoes what was exhibited when the museum opened.”

A fitting tribute to celebrate the Museum’s 10th anniversary.

All photos courtesy of the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. On facing page: photo by Joseph Mills Photograpy.

This page, clockwise from top left: Piecing together the Eleanor Blake Kilpatrick Memorial Tower; the finished tower; Lauren Farthing, age 6, during a Family Day event.

Mari Farthing is the Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Allied Arts & the Oklahoma City Museum of Art “Oklahoma City is fortunate to have the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and Allied Arts is honored to be one of its supporting partners,” said Deborah McAuliffe Senner, president and CEO of Allied Arts. “The museum’s downtown facility has been integral not only to the museum’s continued growth and success, but also for the entire downtown renaissance.

It’s been exciting to see the museum’s membership explode with growth, classrooms filled with kids learning about art, and lines forming to see world-class films and exhibits that are attracting Oklahomans as well as people from and all over the world,” Senner continued.

Allied Arts agencies reach 1.9 million people each year with world-renowned exhibits, riveting harmonies and captivating dance and theatrical performances. The agencies also provide arts activities and experiences to more than 276,000 schoolchildren each school year.

For more information, call 405-278-8944 or visit www.alliedartsokc.com.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Real Moms of the Metro Meet Kandi Allred: Mom and Military Officer

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I am an animal lover and active supporter of wildlife preservation efforts.

What are you passionate about?

My country. One of my first vacations was to Washington, DC to see the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial (“The Wall”).

How has motherhood changed you?

The birth of a child will change many things, but for me I now know the value of a tiny life. I treasure my children, and I have learned how to love them unconditionally.

How do you banish stress?

Exercise. If I’m at the gym late at night, that is a good indicator that I’m really stressed.

What inspires you?

My husband, he is the glue that holds our family together. He is an amazing father and husband. He inspires me to be a better person on a daily basis.

Along with your job as a mom, what do you do?

I am an Active Duty Air Force Officer. I lead 43 personnel and am responsible for

Quick Facts About Kandi 1. What are five words that describe you?

Compassionate, happy, energetic, feisty and adventurous 2. What can’t you live without?

Mascara 3. What’s your favorite family outing? Going for a walk with my family and stopping at the park to play 4. What’s your favorite indulgence? Anything chocolate 5. What’s your favorite TV show? The Good Wife

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direct mobility and cargo processing for five units.

I manage operations, maintenance and training for a $14M vehicle fleet and oversee mobility readiness for 718 Airmen.

What do you like most about your job?

Photo by sodarnhappyphotography.com.

U

nited States Air Force Officer Captain Kandi S. Allred is a true patriot at heart. Passionate about serving her country, Kandi is also equally dedicated to her family: Jillian, age 2, and Brayden, 10 months. Married to husband Nate for four years, 29-year-old Kandi shares with us her philosophy of parenting, what kitchen gadget her family keeps destroying and why she thinks time with her kids is more always important than housework.

I love the people in the military. I have met some of the most amazing people in this profession.

They are ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and making sacrifices on a daily basis for the benefit of others.

What is on your wish list?

A new can opener. We have destroyed four in the last year.

What makes you the most proud?

Being a closely-knit family—the four of us do everything together.

PHOTO CAPTION GOES HERE

The Allred family: Kandi, Jillian, Brayden and Nate.

What motivates you?

My children motivate me every day. They constantly challenge me in new ways and remind me that I am capable of doing more then I think I can.

How do you find balance in your life?

I try to remember to give my all to my family and my best to work. There is no other success that compensates for failure as a parent.

Advice for other moms?

Stop cleaning and start playing! I was holding my son one day when a lady approached me who was on a “date” with her 18 year old son. She said, “I sure do miss those days. Make sure you take time to hold your son. I spent so much time cleaning the house and doing laundry, if I could do it all over again, I would have spent less time cleaning and more time with my son.” I decided right then and there that no clean house was worth missing valuable time with my children.

Where are you from originally? What brought you to Oklahoma?

I am originally form Sebring Florida, a town heavily known for two things: “The 12 hours of Sebring” [an annual motorsport endurance race] and housing “snowbirds.”

The military has brought us to Oklahoma.

My husband is an Active Duty Captain as well and is participating in an Air Force Law School program. We have moved

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

from Colorado Springs, to Beale Air Force Base in California, to Hill Air Force Base in Utah to Tinker Air Force Base...in less than 5 years!

What’s the biggest challenge in your life?

Balancing work and family. I feel an insurmountable amount of guilt when I have to drop my children off at daycare when they are having a bad day or not feeling well.

How do you help others?

We help out wherever an opportunity arises. We set family goals to give back to less-fortunate families. We try to teach our children the value of money and make them pick out things of their own they want to donate to another family.

What is your parenting style?

Non-compromising; either do what I say or go to time out. We do not tolerate temper tantrums, so if a meltdown happens we have a nice, comfortable “time out” chair.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?

“The greatest work we will ever do will be within the walls of our home.” – David O. McKay. Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Early Readers

A New Year’s Reunion

By Yu Li-Qiong and Zhu Cheng-Liang (Candlewick Press, hardcover, $16) Celebrate the Chinese New Year (January 23) with MaoMao and her family who are celebrating the return of her father, knowing that soon he must leave again.

E-Mergency!

By Tom Lichtenheld and Ezra Fields-Meyer (Chronicle Books, hardcover, $17) What happens when the most frequently used letter in the alphabet is hurt and can no longer be used?

The entire alphabet (or is it the ‘ontiro alphabot’?) teams up to help give “e” the opportunity to heal while hilarity ensues.

Chamelia

By Ethan Long (Little, Brown and Co, hardcover, $17) A story about a chameleon who likes to stand out but learns that sometimes, blending in can be just as fun.

A reminder that you can join in while still keeping true to who you are.

The Megasaurus

By Thomas and Peter Weck; illustrated by Len DiSalvo (Lima Bear Press, hardcover, $16) Will the King of Beardom be able to save his kingdom from the fearsome Megasaurus?

Grades 3+

Science Lab

By Jon Kirkwood (Silver Dolphin Books, kit, $17) A hands-on book and kit with materials for experiments on ideas such as friction, sound and magnetism. Instructions are plainly written and brightly illustrated to engage kids in science.

Time For Kids: That’s Incredible!

(Time Home Entertainment, hardcover, $20) This title shows your kids what an incredible Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

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I Wish I Knew That Geography: Cool Stuff You Need to Know The Young Readers Edition i before e (except after c): Easy, Cool Ways to Remember Facts Write (Or Is That “Right”?) Every Time: Cool Ways to Improve Your English I Wish I Knew That: Cool Stuff You Need to Know (Readers Digest, hardcover, $10 each) This collection of books offers kids in grades four and up an engaging and age-appropriate guide to learning the tough lessons that will impact their education, including tips and tricks for remembering grammar rules, punctuation, geography basics and random but useful information.

world we live in, with facts for all areas of interest including sports (such as strange or extreme activities), technology (like great inventions) and mysteries (do monsters exist?).

Adults

Ruhlman’s Twenty

By Michael Ruhlman, photographs by Donna Turner Ruhlman (Chronicle Books, hardcover, $40) Anyone can be a better cook with this title that takes the author’s wide range and breadth of cooking experience and simmers it down to 100 recipes in 20 categories (including “Water,” “Salt” and “Chill”).

A Family of Readers

By Roger Sutton & Martha V. Parravano (Candlewick, softcover, $15) By the editors of the popular Horn Book Magazine, this title will help parents to encourage even the most reluctant reader to find joy and passion in the pages of books. Includes essays on reading in four categories (Reading to Them, Reading with Them, Reading on Their Own and Leaving Them Alone) plus suggestions for age-appropriate reads.

How To Tutor Your Own Child

By Marina Koestler Ruben (Ten Speed Press, softcover, $14) Is your child struggling in school? Consider yourself as a tutor with a proven six-step session format that will allow parents to tutor their own children in any grade.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

The Good School

By Peg Tyre (Henry Holt and Company, hardcover, $26) What’s the best educational decision to make for your child? It may be the toughest question facing parents today, and it’s different for every situation. This book can help you decide on the factors that are important to your family and how to find the school that fits.

Way To Go

By Mary Beth Gaertner, EdD (Author House, softcover, $10) A short guide for teachers to help facilitate positive communication with parents to make the best possible impact on children in the classroom.

Rush Hour Recipes (Gooseberry Patch, spiral bound, $17) Struggling to get dinner on the table because you’re stretched for time? This cookbook offers a variety of recipes (including crock pot recipes) that will make it easy to have a home-cooked meal even on the busiest of days.

Teaching Is…

By Marjan Glavac (Nima Systems, hardcover, $10) Veteran teacher Glavac offers a book of highs, lows and musings on what it means to be a teacher.

A book that will resonate with teachers and offer non-teachers a glimpse into what it’s like to be a teacher.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Exploring Oklahoma Experience the Old West at the Ft. Smith National Historical Site

During 2012, Salazar is promoting National Park Fee-Free Days, encouraging families to experience at least some of the 84 million acres of public land, 4.5 million miles of public shoreline and thousands of historical landmarks preserved for you by the U.S. National Park Service.

“From Independence Hall to our newest national park, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, our national parks tell the story of America, from the beauty of our land to our struggle for freedom and justice,” Secretary Salazar said. The Ft. Smith National Historic Site, located east on I-40 at the Oklahoma/ Arkansas border, is certainly a prime example: an historic location that has been the setting in numerous Old West films (think True Grit.) So, why not take Salazar up on his invitation and put this park on your “must do” list this year?

Judge Isaac C. Parker, “The Hanging Judge” While Indians had their own police and courts, they had no jurisdiction over nonIndians. Outlaws found Indian Territory, now Oklahoma, a perfect place to hide from U.S. law enforcement—so they thought. The outlaws didn’t count on one now historicallyfamous Judge Isaac C. Parker who presided over the U.S. Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Under his jurisdiction, deputy marshals were sent into Indian Territory to find and arrest these outlaws for their day in federal court.

Judge Parker presided for 21 years and became known as the “Hanging Judge” for sentencing to death 160 people who ultimately met their fate at the Ft. Smith gallows. Now, visitors from around the world come to visit this unique location that played an important role in taming the Old West.

outlaws called the original jail “Hell on the Border” before Anna Dawes, daughter of a Massachusetts senator, visited the jail and wrote an article about the deplorable conditions leading Congress to approve funds for construction of a new jail in 1888.

Exhibits on the fort’s military personnel, the Trail of Tears (the name given to the deadly march of Indians from their southeastern American homelands to Indian Territory), Parker’s courtroom and two jails are included at the Visitor’s Center. On the site grounds, visitors can explore the first fort, the Trail of Tears Overlook on the Arkansas River, the military’s Commissary building and reconstructed gallows.

Schmidt explains that children of all ages are welcome to participate in the Junior Park Ranger Program. Intended for children ages 5 – 12, the program gives young visitors an interactive and educational way to tour the site. The free, age-appropriate Junior Park Ranger activity booklets are available at the Visitor’s Center or can be downloaded on the park’s website prior to visiting.

Located in downtown Ft. Smith, the Ft. Smith National Historic Site provides a convenient weekend or summer family getaway. A few restaurants are located within walking distance of the park including an old-fashioned malt shop. Picnic tables are provided near the main parking lot for those wanting to eat lunch or snacks on the grounds.

The Visitor’s Center is open 9:00am – 5:00pm daily, except Christmas and New Year’s Day. If not attending on a National Park Fee-Free Day, the entrance fees are reasonable at $4 for individuals 16 years old and above (15 and under are free).

“Whether or not it’s during one of the 17 fee-free days, I encourage everyone to visit a park near them and enjoy the remarkable landscapes and historical and cultural sites that are unique to our great country,” Salazar said. If you’ve never been to a national park or haven’t visited one recently, make 2012 your year and the Ft. Smith National Historic Site your first park destination.

The Park and Grounds When visiting the park, you’ll start at the Visitors Center, located in the former military barracks/courthouse/jail building.

Park Ranger Pat Schmidt recommends the 15-minute introductory film that “gives a great overview of history and perspective” to the site. For example, visitors learn why

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Courtesy of the Ft. Smith National Historic Site.

H

ere’s a family goal for the new year: visit all of the U.S. National Parks. A tough challenge considering that if you attempted to visit one a year, you’d have to live to the ripe old age of 397 to visit all of them. But Ken Salazar, who oversees the U.S. National Park Service as Secretary of the Interior, hopes free admission will give you incentive to consider visiting at least a few.

Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh corgi. Daughter Megan attends OSU in Stillwater.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

Visit Ft. Smith For more information on the Ft. Smith National Historical Site or participating fee-free day parks, visit the U.S. National Park website at www.nps.gov/findapark/ feefreeparks.htm. To contact the Ft. Smith National Historic Site, call 479783-5307. Information on overnight accommodations is available at Miss Laura’s Social Club (the Ft. Smith Welcome Center, a restored 19th century bordello and an historical must-see of its own), by calling 800-637-1477.

National Park Fee-Free Park Days Admission will be free to participating U.S. National Parks on the following days in 2012: • January 14-16: Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend • April 21-29: National Park Week • June 9: Get Outdoors Day • September 29: National Public Lands Day • November 10-12: Veteran’s Day weekend

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Ask the Experts Local Experts Address Real Issues: Drama at the Grocery Store In this new column, we ask local experts to give answers to the real parenting questions and issues that we all may face. This month’s question: My child gets overwhelmed when at the grocery store or in big crowds and it usually ends up with him having a meltdown. I cannot leave him at home when shopping. Any tips?

Donnie Van Curen M.A., LMFT: This can be a product of two things: anxiety or discipline (or sometimes both). With anxiety, I would offer the child something to keep them busy or distracted. This may be a book, music, game system, etc. This will help the child be less aware of the crowd. Find ways to teach the child to comfort themselves with breathing techniques, like blowing up imaginary balloons, or finding the colors of a rainbow in what people are wearing. Lastly, if possible, find times to shop that they are less crowded, with the plan to work up to larger crowds as the child becomes more comfortable.

If this is a discipline problem, you will find that the child has the ability to act appropriately, but chooses not to, because they are not getting what they want. It is important that this choice be met with discipline to possibly include: spankings, grounding, etc., depending on the age of the child and the form of discipline used in the household. At extremes, it might also be appropriate to remove the child for discipline at the time of the incident. Having positive incentives, like a trip for ice cream, could also be considered when the child acts appropriately.

Donnie Van Curen M.A., LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. Contact him at 405-823-4302 or www.counseling1820.com.

Kevin Tutty, LPC: I actually cover a very similar question in my parenting class. This child sounds like

he has some anxiety, possibly panic when in crowds. One option is to find a time when there would not be a lot of people if possible, like in the evening. Another is to tell your child that you could go for icecream as a reward when you are done with your shopping trip. In any case, you would want the trip to be as stress-free as possible.

One way to accomplish this is to monitor your child's behaviors closely, and reassure him everything is going to be OK, that you are proud of him for doing such a good job and that you are almost done with the shopping. You could also have your child help you by looking for items you want to find, rewarding him with a prize at the end of the trip for finding items on your list.

Kevin Tutty is a licensed professional counselor in private practice. Contact him at 405-431-6225.

Gayla Westbrook, MA: I know the trips to the grocery store are a necessity, and at times a challenge when you have one or more toddlers in tow. Some tips to think about before the trip to the grocery store: • If taking little ones along, make sure it’s not at nap time, that your children is rested.

• Review the rules, such as stay in the shopping cart, stay with mommy, we are not asking for “stuff.”

• Bring along finger snacks.

• Have them assist, such as marking off the items as you put them in the cart, or have them assist putting things in the cart as this helps with fine motor skills and keeps

them busy.

• Talk with your child about what letter the grocery item starts with (this helps with language development).

• Bring along one or two small books to keep the child preoccupied.

• Talk with them as you are shopping—as this will keep them engaged.

Hopefully this will be helpful, and happy shopping, Gayla Westbrook, MA, is the Program Director at the Parents Assistance Center Program Director. Contact her at 405-2328226 or www.parentsassistancecenter.org.

We posted the same question to our readers, and here are their responses: • Download kid-friendly apps on your smartphone for your child to play.

• Make the outing a game: toddlers can search for how many blue items they can find, while older kids can try to calculate the shopping total to see how close they can come to the actual total.

• Write out a list of items for your child to look for in the store, using pictures for younger children.

• Try a sling for younger children, which is often very comforting.

• Make sure your children are fed and well-rested before your outing!

• Bring a snack to occupy your child.

• Keep your child occupied with the shopping list and searching for specific items to cross off.

Thank you to Lucinda W., Jennifer L., Chelsea R., Christy P., Erin A. and Blair F. for your feedback!

Do you have a question for our experts? Email it to editor@metrofamilymagazine.com and we’ll put the experts to work for you.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Welcome to MetroFamily's

Education Guide

Whether you’re a parent seeking a Metro area private school, a teacher searching for a field trip venue or you’re in need of enrichment activities to enhance your child’s learning process, this is the place to begin.

Location

Address

Contact

Grades

Details

Bishop John Carroll School

1100 NW 32nd, OKC

405-525-0956, www.bjcs.org

PreK – grade 8

Diverse Catholic community providing excellence in academic instruction & faith formation in a safe faith-filled environment.

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School

801 NW 50th St, OKC

405-842-6638, www.bmchs.org

Grades 9-12

Co-educational college prep Archdiocesan high school with diverse student body.

Casady School

9500 Pennsylvania Ave, OKC

405-749-3100, www.casady.org

Preschool – grade 12

Independent, Episcopal, co-educational, college-preparatory school.

Childtime

Various locations

855-660-1872, www.childtime.com

Preschool

Educational environment where children are encouraged to explore & learn through curiosity.

Christ the King Catholic School

1905 Elmhurst Ave, OKC

405-843-3909, www.ckschool.com

PreK – grade 8

School focused on helping students develop academically for a life of faith, service & integrity.

Erna Krouch Preschool

4901 N Penn Ave, OKC

405-848-5926, www.thetempleokc.org

Preschool

Theme-based curriculum includes art, numbers, letters sounds, Spanish & music.

Gethsemane Lutheran School

8811 W Willshire Blvd, OKC

405-721-1167, www.glcokc.com/school

PreK – grade 8

A school designed to meet children’s spiritual, mental & physical education needs.

The Goddard School

6001 East Covell, Edmond, 405-330-1313 17440 N Western, Edmond, 405-348-4442, www.goddardschool.com

Preschool – Kindergarten

Teachers nurture the healthy development of children to encourage each child's lifelong love of learning. Education programs individualized for each student.

Heritage College

7100 S I-35 Service Rd, OKC

405-631-3399, www.heritagecollege.edu

Post-secondary education

Training for careers in the healthcare, wellness & beauty fields. Career placemet assistance available.

Holy Trinity Catholic School

N. 2nd & Missouri, Okarche

405-263-4422, holytrinityok.org

PreK – grade 8

Catholic school with daily bus route to and from NW OKC.

Holy Trinity Christian School

308 NW 164th St, OKC

405-844-4000, www.holytrinityedmond.org

PreK – grade 5

Hands-on learning geared toward children’s physical, social, emotional & intellectual development.

King's Gate Christian School

11400 N Portland, OKC

405-752-2111, www.kingsgateschool.com

Through grade 5

Quality Christian education in a safe, ageappropriate learning environment rich in experimental interaction & exploration.

La Petite Academy

Multiple locations

855-670-8860, www.lapetite.com

Preschool

Educational program focused on fun activities.

Marymount Preschool

35 E 15th St, Edmond

405-408-4939, www.twitter.com/ marymountprek

Preschool (ages 3 – 5)

Preschool with Spanish, writing, math & science curriculum.

Mount St. Mary High School

2801 S Shartel Ave, OKC

405-631-8865, www.mountstmary.org

Grades 9 – 12

College preparatory, co-educational Catholic education with a variety of clubs, organizations, fine arts & athletics.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

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Schools

Location

Address

Primrose Schools

Contact

Grades

Details

Opening spring 2012: 1520 SW 199th St., Oklahoma City, 405-7936000, wwww.primroseswoklahomacity.com Now open: 15000 N. Western Avenue, Edmond, 405-285-6787, www.primroseedmond.com

Preschool

Instruction using proprietary Balanced Learning standards-based curriculum.

Providence Hall

1120 E Hefner Rd, OKC

405-478-2077, www.providencehall.org

PreK – grade 9

Half- & full-day programs for preschool & kindergarten; classical Western education with scriptural focus for all grades.

Rosary School

1910 NW 19th St, OKC

405-525-9272, www.rosaryschool.com

PreK – grade 8

Blue Ribbon award-winning Catholic School.

Sacred Heart Catholic School

2700 S Shartel Ave, OKC

405-634-5673, www.sacredheartokc.org

PreK – grade 8

Breakfast, lunch, after care, sports, band & scouting.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School

5000 N Grove St, OKC

405-789-0224, www.scbschool.org

PreK – grade 8

Excellent education in a safe environment where students grow in self-discipline & individuality.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

925 S Boulevard, Edmond

405-348-5364, www.seascardinals.org

PreK – grade 8

Education program rooted in the values of love, respect & justice for every individual & form of life existing in God's creation.

St. Eugene Catholic School

2400 W Hefner Rd, OKC

405-751-0067, www.steugeneschool.org

PreK – grade 8

Roman Catholic school that keeps Christ central by nurturing spiritual growth & academic excellence.

St. James the Greater Catholic School

1224 SW 41, OKC

405-636-6810, www.stjames-catholic.org

PreK – grade 8

Catholic education with small class sizes & a wide range of extracurricular opportunities.

Names for 2012-13 waiting list now accepted.

St. John's Episcopal School & Child Development Program

5401 N Brookline, OKC

405-943-8583, www.stjohnsokc.com

Through grade 8

Supportive educational environment that fosters intellectual, physical, social & ethical development & exploration.

St. John Nepomuk Catholic School

600 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon

405-354-2509, sjnok.org

PreK – grade 8

Catholic school committed to the gospel teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles of the Catholic Church.

St. Mary's Catholic School

502 E Warner Ave, Guthrie

405-282-2071, http://stmarysguthrie.eduk12.net

PreK – grade 8

Committed to providing the best academic & spiritual formation for all.

St. Mary's Episcopal School

505 E Covell Rd, Edmond

405-341-9541, www.smesedmond.org

PreK – grade 6

Adding grades 7-8 in 2012-13 school year.

Educational program includes educational excellence, worship, physical education, arts & foreign language.

St. Philip Neri Catholic School

1121 Felix Pl, Midwest City

405-737-4496, www.stphilipnerischool.com

PreK – grade 8

Catholic education plus Spanish, physical education, music & art classes.

Trinity School

321 NW 36th St, OKC

405-525-5600, www.trinityschoolokc.org

Kindergarten – grade 12

Private, independent day school specializing in intelligent students with learning differences in language, reading, math, handwriting, processing &/or other areas.

Villa Teresa Catholic School

1216 Classen Dr, OKC

405-232-4286, www.villateresaschool.com

PreK – grade 4

Early primary education, year-round programs available.

Warm World School

14343 N MacArthur, OKC

405-721-4141, www.warmworld.com

Preschool – Kindergarten

Christian school with a developmental approach, small class sizes, degreed teachers & curriculum that encourages learning through play.

Westminster School

600 NW 44th St, OKC

405-524-0631, www.westminsterschool.org

PreK - grade 8

Co-ed school with the mission to educate children by engaging them in experiences to challenge them to solve problems as cooperative, confident & responsible learners.

YMCA (E.L. Gaylord Downtown)

1 NW 4th St, OKC

405-297-7760, www.ymcaokc. org

Preschool – Kindergarten

Early learning programs based on holistic child development.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Field Trip Venues

Location

Address

Contact

Details

Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center

507 S 4th St, Enid

580-237-1907, www.csrhc.org

Tells the history & development of the Cherokee Outlet where students can step back in time to early frontier days.

Chickasaw Cultural Center

867 Charles Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur

580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter. com

Tells the story of the Chickasaw people through the latest technology, live demonstrations, ancient artifacts & natural outdoor spaces. Staffed with cultural teachers to educate visitors on traditional crafts & more.

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

1000 Chisholm Trail Pkwy, Duncan

580-252-6692, www.onthechisholmtrail.com

Museum instructors work with classroom teachers to customize lessons.

Exhibits & interactive programs on the art & history of the Chisholm Trail, the American cowboy & the American west.

Edmond Historical Society 431 S Boulevard, Edmond & Museum

405-340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org

Students will experience a day in 1889 inside the Territorial Schoolhouse, including historically-accurate instruction, activities & lessons.

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum

405-235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com

Experience Oklahoma's story through its people in a high-tech, interactive museum environment.

Harn Homestead Museum 1721 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC

405-235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com

Field trip venue for students age 5+ to learn about territorial-era settlers.

Two- & 3-hour programs available for elementary & secondary students.

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum

1714 West Wrangler Blvd, Seminole

405-382-0950, www.jasminemoran.com

Interactive exhibits, outdoor train & ScienceWorks wing (complete with a surgical suite) provide a fun field trip venue.

Kansas Cosmosphere & Space Center

1100 N Plum St, Hutchinson, KS

620-662-2305, www.cosmo.org

The most comprehensive space museum in the world features lessons on history, applied science, astronomy, geography & geology.

Leonardo's Children's Museum

200 E Maple, Enid

580-233-2787, www.leonardos.org

Hands-on science museum with focus on arts & science. All-day admission also includes Adventure Quest, an outdoor science playground featuring a three-story castle.

Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art

1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee

405-878-5300, www.mgmoa.org

Integrated student programs combining museum & classroom experiences for students of all ages.

METRO Transit

OKC Metro area

403-235-7433, www.gometro.org

The FREE Road Scholars program is a smart way for educational institutions & organizations to transport school-age students to educational destinations.

Museum of Osteology

10301 S Sunnylane Rd, OKC

405-814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org

A museum focused on the function & form of the skeleton, featuring classroom space, exclusive tours, educational presentation & time for museum exploration.

Myriad Botanical Gardens

301 W Reno Ave, OKC

405-297-3611, www.myriadgardens.com

Programs geared to student age focus on the understanding of the botanical and life sciences through inquiry, interaction and observation.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

1700 NE 63rd St, OKC

405-478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum. org

Field-trip programs adapted to students from elementary-high school.

Traveling Trunks available for classroom use focusing on American Cowboys, American Indians or Oklahoma History, tailored to grade level, 2-week free check out (when picked up from museum).

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

415 Couch Dr, OKC

405-236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

Pre-scheduled, docent-led tours available for school-age groups. Some scholarships available.

Oklahoma City Zoo

2101 NE 50th St, OKC

405-425-0218, www.okczooed.com

Outreach & school programs to reach students of all ages.

Oklahoma History Center

800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC

405-522-0765 www.okhistorycenter.org

Guided museum tours, scavenger hunts, living history programs, education trunks & special classes.

Oklahoma Railway Museum

3400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC

405-424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum. org

Museum with historic preservation of railroad equipment & train rides.

Railroad Museum of Oklahoma

702 N Washington, Enid

580-233-3051, www. railroadmuseumofoklahoma.org

Field trip venue with over a million pieces of railroad memorabilia with all-caboose rail excursions.

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman

405-325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu

Age-appropriate, hands-on programs highlighting the Earth’s history & focusing on Oklahoma. All SNOMNH programs address PASS standards & are taught by professional museum educators. Scholarships available.

Science Museum Oklahoma

2100 NE 52nd St, OKC

405-602-6664, www. sciencemuseumok.org

Hands-on experiences; thousands of space, aviation & cultural artifacts; ongoing exhibitions; Planetarium shows, Science Live performances & IMAX films in the Dome Theater.

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1400 Classen Dr, OKC

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

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Educational Outreach & Enrichment Programs Location

Address

Contact

Details

Capstone Tutoring

Edmond area

405-202-6237, www.capstone-tutoring.com

Specialize in standardized test preparation (ACT, GMAT, GRE & SAT) & tutoring in mathematics through calculus, science through physics and chemistry & study skill development for small groups or individuals.

Club Z! In-home Tutoring Service

3200 E. Memorial, Edmond

405-478-3515, www.clubztutoring.com

Tutoring for all grade levels on all subjects. Standardized test prep, assessment testing on ACT, SAT, GMAT, GRE & MCAT for grades Preschool & up.

College Tutors

1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Edmond

405-513-6060, www.collegetutors.com/ edmondok

Customized tutoring, homework help & college prep services.

Creative Adventures

10455 N May Ave, OKC

405-751-1002

Fine art programs for ages 2½ – 5. Weekday programs focus on music, drama, art, abc's & 123's & more.

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond

27 E Edwards, Edmond

405-340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com

Non-profit community arts organization offering educational enrichment in the visual & performing arts.

Juggle Whatever

Oklahoma City area

405-464-1060, www.jugglewhatever.com

Classroom programs instruct children on juggling using scarves, plates & balls. Juggling boosts physical skills, problem-solving skills & improves self-esteem.

Kumon Math & Reading, www.ikumon.com

Edmond (245 S Santa Fe Ave), 405-216-9800 N Edmond (775 W Covell Rd), 405-715-1111 Mustang (204 N Mustang Mall Terr), 405-376-6400 Norman (1320 N Interstate Dr), 405-364-1600 OKC North (9494 N May Ave), 405-752-2000 OKC NW (7640 NW Expy), 405-721-7323 OKC S (10600 S Penn), 405-691-8900

Beginning to advanced math & reading programs for ages 3 – 18.

Ongoing sessions with individualized academic plans.

Mad Science of Central Oklahoma

PO Box 30983, Edmond

405-285-9643 or 405-408-9532

Fun, inquiry-based, hands-on, themed programs & activities for grades preschool through middle school held at schools or community centers.

Oklahoma City Philharmonic

428 W California, Suite 210, OKC

405-232-7575, www.okcphilharmonic.org

In-school programs Sound Images & We’ve Got Rhythm follow Oklahoma PASS education guidelines. Other programs include youth concerts & open auditions for high school & college-aged musicians.

OU Sooner Flight Academy

1928 Goddard Ave, Norman

405-325-1635, www.flightcamp.ou.edu

Inspires children of all grades to become leaders in aviation & the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM).

Sensational Kids, Inc

14715 Bristol Park Blvd, OKC

405-840-1686, www.sensationalkidsokc.com

Occupational & speech therapists work with children exhibiting sensory processing disorder, speech disorders or with delayed fine/gross motor skills & social skills.

Skills for Living, Inc.

330 West Gray Suite 100-2, Norman

405-360-5552, www.skillsforliving.net

Parents & children with challenges have the opportunity to benefit from hands-on workshops in a playful environment.

The Spectrum Therapy Center

14 E Ayers, Edmond

405-513-8186, www.stc-ok.com

Private practice offering innovative & comprehensive occupational therapy services.

When you call or visit the venue, be sure to let them know you read all about them in MetroFamily Magazine!

Find these listings year-round in our handy online directories at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

31

Mark the date for OKC’s premier family fun event!

Saturday, March 24

10am to 4pm at the State Fairgrounds (Oklahoma Expo building)

Enjoy over 50 booths with hands-on activities for the kids • Inflatables Safety Village by Safe Kids Oklahoma Character Corner • Stage Entertainment Find out more at

Attention Businesses: Join these and many others who will connect to thousands of local families at Kids Fest!

Primrose Schools, Casady School, K12 Virtual School, Characters Inc, M&M Productions, YMCA Camp Classen, Chisholm Trail Center (Duncan), Oklahoma History Center, Oklahoma Children’s Theatre, OCU Community Dance, Camp McFadden

Reserve by January 31st for early-bird discount.

Contact us TODAY!

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest

405-601-2081 or info@metrofamilymagazine.com

Co-sponsored by:

Safety Village provided by:

Parents Assistance Center “The Family Place”

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

Let us help you foster a young child.

Angels Foster Family Network seeks loving, dedicated foster families interested in providing a stable foundation for young children (ages 0-3) who need their help.

We provide training and ongoing support so that you can concentrate on nurturing the young child placed in your care.

Call us today! www.angelsfosterokc.org • (405) 285-6193

photography for the artistically minded family

randycolemanphotography.com 405•509•9395 //studio 223 south walker randy@randycolemanphotography.com

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

33

Focus on Education NeuroNet Learning: A full-body experience

W

hy are some students independent, successful learners while others struggle with learning new concepts?

That was the question that faced Nancy Rowe, a speech therapist/audiologist. From the challenge of helping students become lifelong learners and current research about how our brains work came Rowe’s development of the NeuroNet program being used in schools and with individual students via certified therapists across the country.

Locally, Westminster School, an Oklahoma City private school serving students from preschool through eighth grade, is seeing good results from their use of NeuroNet.

What is NeuroNet? A program that facilitates learning through movement, NeuroNet is a strategic approach based on scientific research of how our brains create and strengthen neural networks. When we learn new information or skills, neurons in our brains connect to one another, creating a pathway. The more often that the pathway is used, the stronger the neural network becomes—and the more successful we are at using the knowledge and performing the skill.

With a motto, “Get your brain to practice what you want your brain to learn,” NeuroNet works from the principle that skills such as handwriting or math fact knowledge should become automatic, just as riding a bike is.

“We want students to have handwriting, body movement and math facts automated so that their brain power can go towards learning instead of spending brain energy figuring out how to [write] letters correctly on paper,” said Jessica Reineke, Westminster NeuroNet Coordinator. For example, if a student is answering questions on social studies content, it would be ideal that his brain power is focused on the content rather than how to form the handwritten letters in the answer. She added, “Students who have more control over their bodies can focus on the information they need to learn and not become as easily distracted.”

Since implementing the program over three years ago, teachers are beginning to observe positive changes in Westminster students, including improved spatial awareness, handwriting and even music skills. Reineke attributes NeuroNet for “making strong neural pathways in their brains that are allowing them to learn new skills more quickly.”

How the program works Students in kindergarten through third grade at Westminster participate in a

34

20-minute morning exercise that helps prepare neurological pathways for all aspects of learning. Reineke explains, “What may appear to be old-fashioned jumping jacks is actually a brain and a body exercise that includes rhythmic and patterned speech and body movements.”

Another exercise called catwalk has students on their hands and feet, mimicking the body movements of a cat. A stool is placed in front of the students and they tap the stool with rhythmic speaking and hand movements. In a classroom, this multi-tasking movement exercise helps students to develop the neural pathways and muscle development to be able to sit in their seats while also having to look at the board or teacher and back down at their papers to write.

NeuroNet provider in their area, as more are being added in the near future.

The NeuroNet Classroom Enrichment is available for children from kindergarten through third grade. Parents and educators may request an informational brochure by emailing info@neuronetlearning.com; more details may be found on the program website, www.neurornetlearning.com.

“After seeing Rowe’s success with students, other therapists became interested so she [Rowe] began training to certify other therapists,” said Jonathan Rowe, Managing Director of NeuroNet. It followed that schools became aware of the success and began to implement the strategies with struggling students.

Nancy Rowe’s vision for NeuroNet remains: In another exercise explained by Reineke, “That education will use a neural network students may jump in and out doing feet jacks, model for automating new learning, enabling while their hands remain on their hips and more students to become independent they simultaneously count by twos. Repeated learners in school and to become independent program-led exercises become increasingly adults in life.” more challenging each week. Explains Reineke, “As students practice the same set of exercises throughout the week, the neural pathways in their brains become stronger.

Julie Dill is a National Board Certified Our students recognize that the exercises are Teacher from Oklahoma City and mother of hard at the beginning of the week, but with two. practice, perseverance, and hard work the exercises become easier by the end of the week. This is one of the main reasons we love Editor’s note: This is Julie’s last column with NeuroNet. In life, things may seem hard at first, but with hard work and perseverance we MetroFamily Magazine. We wish her all the best and appreciate the contributions she has can grow our brains and our bodies.” made to our pages!

Bringing NeuroNet To You Parents interested in NeuroNet therapy programs for their children should visit www.neuronetlearning.com and search for a

The NeuroNet Story In 1993, founder Nancy Rowe was operating a private audiology and speech therapy practice when she repeatedly came across a seemingly hard-to-solve problem. “The children who came to me roughly fell into two groups: those who absorbed language like a sponge, and those who remained oblivious to the larger significance of verbal communication,” Rowe said. “The first group learned how to learn words, and went on to become independent language learners, even though they had no open-set auditory word recognition. Children in the second group, despite having similar or even better hearing, learned only the words that I taught them. As long as I kept teaching, they kept learning, but they did not go on to become independent language learners. This same difference reappeared as I began to see children with auditory processing problems,” the founder explained. This prompted Rowe to search for ways to help children “learn to learn.”

Specifically, Rowe wanted: • A way to change the learning process—not just the learning base—for students, • A way to document changes in the learning process.

• A theoretical model of why this worked, to better meet the individual needs of a wide variety of learners.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

35

Love

? Love sales?

MetroFamily is seeking a high-energy, enthusiastic, hard-working person with a friendly personality to join our sales team. Looking for someone with a positive attitude who loves meeting new people and is not afraid to cold call to sell a new high-appeal digital media product to local businesses.

You will be given the training, procedures and tools—plus continual support—to help you achieve success!

Sales experience preferred but not necessary. Unlimited income potential.

If interested in this exciting ground-floor opportunity, send your resume and a brief cover letter to sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

Check out this great opportunity!

Harlem Globetrotters The Harlem Globetrotters bring their 2012 World Tour to Chesapeake Energy Arena on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, at 2:00 pm.

Continuing an 86-year-old tradition of ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment for fans of all ages, the Globetrotters have entertained millions—among them popes, kings, queens, and presidents—over more than eight thrilling decades.

Tickets begin at $19. For more information, call (405) 602-8700 or visit www. chesapeakearena. com.

SUNDAY

Photo courtesy of the Harlem Globetrotters.

January 22 2 pm

ABBA

The OKC Thunder

The Addams Family

Need a creative date night idea? The Oklahoma City Philharmonic presents ABBA—The Concert at the Civic Center Music Hall on January 27-28 at 8:00pm. The concert features Waterloo, the top ABBA tribute group in the world, performing ABBA’s most iconic hits.

THUNDER UP! The OKC Thunder take to the court at the Chesapeake Energy Arena for the 2011-12 season to challenge division rivals in the quest for the 2012 NBA Title. Join Kevin Durant and the rest of team for any of the 33 home games this season. The Thunder take on the Portland Trail Blazers on January 6 at 7pm.

You can also catch the Thunder in action on January 8th, 14th, 23rd and 25th.

They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky…and are now taking the stage in the first national tour of the new musical The Addams Family. The Addams Family comes to the Civic Center Music Hall from January 17-22 and is recommended for ages 8 years and older.

Tickets begin at $15. For more information, call (405) 842-5387 or visit www. okcphilharmonic.org.

Photo Courtesy of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.

Tickets begin at $10. For more information, visit www.nba.com/thunder.

Tickets begin at $20. For more information, call (405) 297-2264 or visit www.

CelebrityAttractions.com.

Photo courtesy of Celebrity Attractions.

Photo courtesy of the OKC Thunder.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

37

Quick Reference American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, www.banjomuseum.org City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com Museum of Osteology 10301 S. Sunnylane Rd, OKC 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org

Weekly Events Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features activities for toddlers through elementary age children, FREE with paid admission. See website for details.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm. Activities include Art Adventures for children ages 3-5 with adult (10:30am).

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) includes 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30-8pm. 200-1691, www.jumpzoneparty.com.

FREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is an interactive story time held outside Sears at Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11am. 340-9202, www. bestofbooksedmond.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Ages 3 & up. Saturdays, 11am-3pm.

858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main, Yukon) for differentlyabled individuals, their families & friends to participate in an afternoon of bowling. $8 per week for 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. 354-2516.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

Saturdays, 1-4pm.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects in Martin Park. Saturdays 2-5pm.

755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com

FREE Tuesday Noon Concert Series at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art are 30-minute concerts are performed by OU music students & faculty. Admission to the museum is FREE on Tuesdays.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

FREE Chess Club for Teens at the Edmond Library meets Tuesday nights. All skill levels welcome. 6-7pm.

Ongoing Events Through January 3

FREE Playgroup with a Purpose at Wildwood Community Church (1501 24th Ave NE, Norman) for moms & children ages 6 & under. Snacks provided. First & third Tuesday through May. 9:45am. 301-7321, www. growingcharacter.com.

Edmond Outdoor Ice Skating Rink at Festival Market Place (1st & Broadway, Edmond) offers an outdoor sakting rink, concessions & holiday lights. $8 with skates, $5 without & for children 5 & under. Noon-10pm daily. www.expressice.com/edmondok.

FREE Homework Helpers at the Noble Public Library provides FREE tutoring for students in grades 1-12 on Tuesdays & Thursdays while school is in session.

3:30-5pm.

Through January 4

Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, www.okczoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC 522-5248, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

Do you have an event for our calendar?

Email Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com All phone numbers are area code 405 unless otherwise noted. Information should be verified before attending events as details can change after press date.

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FREE Tours of the Governor’s Mansion,1st & 3rd Wednesday. 10am-3pm. 568-1292, www.ok.gov.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Quail Springs Barnes & Noble (13800 N May) every Wednesday & Saturday, 11am. 755-1155, www.barnesandnoble.com.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library. Every Wednesday, 6-8pm. 231-8650.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

FREE Melody Hounds Music Class at the Norman Public Library invites children ages 3-7 & their caregivers to enjoy this class that will help develop musical literacy. Held Thursdays, 7-7:30pm & Fridays, 10:30-11am.

Unplugged After Hours at Unpluggits Playstudio for adults to create in glass, ceramics or painting studios.

Childcare available at KidzStreet. First & third Thursday, 6-8pm. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under. 3597989, www.ucojazzlab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

10th Annual Downtown in December Winter Celebration in Downtown OKC features outdoor iceskating, snow tubing, water taxi rides, 5K run, & holiday lights. 235-3500, www.downtownokc.com.

Through January 6 Marking Time: Voyage to Vietnam at the GaylordPickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features artifacts from the troopship General Nelson M. Walker.

Through January 8 Cowboys & Indians Revisited at Science Museum Oklahoma features artwork that focuses on the rich heritage of Oklahoma’s frontier & how the dynamic between cowboys & Indians forever changed the landscape of the state.

Traditional Cowboy Arts Association 13th Annual Exhibition & Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum showcases the work of TCAA members to preserve the arts of saddlemaking, bit & spur making, silversmithing & rawhide braiding and the role of these traditional crafts in cowboy culture in the American West.

Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is an interactive exhibition that delves into the history & evolution of dogs.

JANUARY S M T W T F S Ghost Ranch & The Faraway Nearby at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features the work of fine-art photographer Craig Varjabedian as he portrays the longtime home of Georgia O’Keeffe.

January 21-March 16 FREE Farm Life Traveling Exhibit at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard) features historical facts & farming equipment from around the United States. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

Through January 22 “The Nativity” art exhibit at Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W. MacArthur, Shawnee) features etchings, engravings & woodcuts. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

January 27-April 29 Highlights from the Permanent Collection of Photography, Part 1 at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art surveys the history of photography with 100 photographs from the museum’s collection.

Through February 4 Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens features ice skating and a live DJ on Friday evenings. $10 with skate rental, $7 with own skates. Open noon-midnight daily. 2973423, downtownindecember.com.

Through February 5 FREE Interstate Icons & Other Roadside Attractions at the State Capitol's North Gallery features the work of Caryl Morgan. Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm; SaturdaySunday, 9am-4pm. 521-2020, www.arts.ok.gov.

Through February 25 Building Buddies Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma is an interactive village that invites young children to play & explore while helping their “buddies” improve the neighborhood. Features hand-on stations that encourage children to construct, build, decorate, paint, tile & more. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through February FREE Admission at the OKC Zoo on Mondays. 9am5pm.

Through May Pickin’ & Grinnin’: Roy Clark, Hee Haw & Country Humor exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center.

Bound to Please: A History of Corsets at the Carnegie Library (406 E Oklahoma, Guthrie) showcases undergarments as a symbol of growth in women’s history from the Middle Ages through the present. 2821889, www.okterritorialmuseum.org.

Through June The Return of Elegance at the Oklahoma History

Center features 29 evening gowns & accessories worn

by Oklahoma women at inaugural balls & other special occasions from 1912-1985.

Through December 9 Oklahoma & Infamy at the Oklahoma History Center marks the 70th anniversary of the United States’ entrance into WWII by exploring that day & the Oklahomans who experienced the devastation. Includes artifacts, Japanese flight suits & naval uniforms, interviews with veterans & personal letters. FREE admission to veterans & active duty military.

JANUARY DAILY EVENTS 1 • Sunday FREE First Day Hikes at Oklahoma State Parks feature FREE guided hikes at Arrowhead, Braggs, Lake Murray, Lake Texoma, Robbers Cave & Sequoyah State Parks. Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/first-dayhikes for details.

2 • Monday FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm

3 • Tuesday FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited. For ages 6-14. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Metropolitan Library System www.metrolibrary.org

Belle Isle.................5501 N Villa...........843-9601 Bethany................3510 N Mueller.........789-8363 Capitol Hill............ 334 SW 26th...........634-6308 Choctaw.................2525 Muzzy...........390-8418 Del City..................4509 SE 15th...........672-1377 Downtown.............300 Park Ave.......... 231-8650 Edmond............... 10 S Boulevard......... 341-9282 Midwest City......... 8143 E Reno........... 732-4828 Ralph Ellison....... 2000 NE 23rd...........424-1437 Southern Oaks....6900 S Walker.........631-4468 The Village........... 10307 N Penn.......... 755-0710 Warr Acres...........5901 NW 63rd...........721-2616 Harrah...............1930 N Church Ave.....454-2001 Jones.......................111 E Main............399-5471 Luther......................310 NE 3rd............ 277-9967 Nicoma Park...... 2240 Overholser........769-9452 Wright Library.... 2101 Exchange.........235-5035

Pioneer Library System

OKC Thunder Basketball vs. Portland Trail Blazers at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 7pm. www. nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 1/6, 8, 14, 23, 25.

4 • Wednesday Sir Isaac Newton’s Birthday at Science Museum Oklahoma celebrates the birthday of one of the great minds of science. FREE with paid admission. 9am-5pm.

www.pls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard............... 300 N Main............ 485-2275 McLoud....................133 N Main............964-2960 Moore.................... 225 S Howard.......... 793-5100 Newcastle............. 705 NW Tenth.......... 387-5076 Noble........................204 N 5th..............872-5713 Norman.................225 N Webster......... 701-2600 Purcell.................... 919 N Ninth............ 527-5546 Shawnee............101 N Philadelphia......275-6353 Tecumseh............114 N Broadway........598-5955

Looking for a fun family activity?

Subscribe to MetroFamily’s

Weekend Picks to keep in the know.

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39

5 • Thursday

January 9-February 13

FREE Tecumseh Teens T-Shirt Weaving at the Tecumseh Library invites teens to bring an old shirt to cut & weave into a new design. Registration required.

4pm.

Wichita Mountains Eagle Watch at Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge includes an interpretive program and bus tour. Ages 8 & up only.

Wheelchair accommodations by request. $5. Sundays & Mondays, 1:30pm. 580-429-2151, wichitamountains. fws.gov.

5-7 Spring Production Auditions at Lyric Theatre’s Thelma Gaylord Academy’s Production Center (1727 NW 16) for the Academy’s productions of Sweeney Todd (grades 8-12) & Aladdin Jr. (grades 2-7).

Preregister. 524-9310, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

10 • Tuesday

6-7

FREE Ayumu Anime Club at the Del City Library invites teens to share, discuss & watch their favorite Anime & Manga. May be considered unsuitable for

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries.

Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www. thepaseo.com.

6-8 Eagle Watch at Arcadia Lake invites the public to bring binoculars to look for bald eagles. Park office (9000 E 2nd, Edmond) has eagle location information, displays, videos & more. $3 per vehicle. 7:30am-4:30pm. 2167471, www.arcadialakeok.com.

7 • Saturday Adult Volunteer Orientation at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is open to all interested parties 16 & over. 10am-noon. Also held: 1/9 6:30-8:30pm.

Aquatic Exploration Stations at the Oklahoma Aquarium features hands-on activities ranging from ocean thieves to turtles. FREE with paid admission.

10am-noon. Also held: 1/14, 21, 28.

FREE Baby Crawl “Diaper Dash” at Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main, Yukon) invites babies 6-14 months of age to race for prizes. 6-9 months, 10:30am; 10-14 months, 11am. 350-8920.

Commoners & Kings presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features pianist Louis Lorte. $15 & up. 8pm. 842-5387, www. okcphilharmonic.org.

FREE Japan in a Suitcase: Sumi-e Art at the Downtown Library invites participants for a hands-on experience creating sumi-e art with artist Nina Schuler who specializes in traditional Japanese painting in silk.

1-3pm.

7-8 Salt Plains Eagle Watch at Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in Jet. Meet at headquarters to take transportation to viewing area. Reservations required.

4-6pm. 580-626-4794, http://saltplains.fws.gov. Also held: 1/14-15.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma features storytelling with SMO’s performer-puppeteer.

FREE with paid museum admission. 10am & 2pm.

children under 13. 4:30-5:30pm.

11 • Wednesday Esther Women Luncheon featuring speakers Gail Griffin & Wanda Pratt at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15) creates dialogue & strengthens fellowship for Christian women as they navigate family, work & spiritual fulfillment. Preregister. $150/ year or $20/program. 11:30am-1pm. 232-1371, www. estherwomenokc.org.

FREE Lil’ Lit’ Club at the Choctaw Library invites children ages 4 & up to read aloud and act out stories.

1-3pm.

12 • Thursday FREE Do Fence Me In-Setting Limits with Love Parenting Class at the Midwest City Library will offer suggestions for providing clear, consistent & predictable expectations for young children. Cosponsored by the Oklahoma City-County Health Department. 6-7:30pm.

13 • Friday FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art provides live music, short films & an art activity.

6-9pm.

FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com.

FREE Native American Storytelling at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) features Dr. Leslie Hannah from Northeastern State University sharing stories from native tradition. Flute circle at 5:30pm.

6:30pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes art walk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.wordpress.com.

OKC Barons vs. Rockford Ice Hogs at the Cox Convention Center. 7pm. Tickets $14 & up, www. okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 1/14, 15, 27, 28.

14 • Saturday FREE Kindermusik Class & Art Open Studio at Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) features Kindermusik & art demo classes. Classes include caregiver participation. Preregister, 242-5454.

Kindermusik (newborn-4 years), 10-10:45am; Wee Art Class (18 months-5 years), 11am-noon. www. crossingsokc.org/afac.

FREE Build & Grow Kid’s Clinics at Lowe’s stores includes project, apron, goggles, themed patch, & certificate of merit. See website for schedule, 10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Also held 1/28.

17 • Tuesday Science of SMO Satellite Galleries at Science Museum Oklahoma explores the wonder of art & science together. FREE with paid admission. 9am-5pm.

Tiny Tuesdays at the OKC Museum of Art invites families for a come & go, open-ended art making activity geared towards children ages 2-5 with parent.

FREE with paid admission. 10am-noon.

17-22 The Addams Family at the Civic Center Music Hall brings the weird & wonderful “monstrous” family to life in this new musical comedy. Recommended for ages 8 & up. 800-869-1451, www.celebrityattractions.com.

19 • Thursday

FREE Edmond Authors Book Fair at Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) includes local authors & children's activities.

1-4pm. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

Octarium at OCCC Bruce Owen Theatre (7777 S May) features a vocal octet performing an evening of a cappella musical arrangements. $10 & up. 7pm. 6827576, www.occc.edu/cas.

Kyle Ketelsen, Voice at UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre features an evening of baritone vocal music. 7:30pm.

974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

Dawn Upshaw, Soprano at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) will range from Bach to Bartok, Dowland to Debussy, Rachmaninoff to Richard Rodgers. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert/Jam at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29) features professional bluegrass bands & open jamming. $6, FREE ages 12 & under. 6:30pm. 677-7515, www. gobms.org.

15 • Sunday Winter Wind Concert: Girlyman at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) presents a blend of acoustic, Americana & rock. $20. 7-9pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

16 • Tuesday 2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commemoration Events sponsored by the OKC Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Coalition include a prayer breakfast, job fair, silent march, bell ringing ceremony, program & parade. See website for details. www.okcmlk.org.

Scout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium honors youth organizations with group rates & the opportunity to earn a Junior Biologist badge. $7 youth, $10 adult.

FREE Free Throw Contest at Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main, Yukon) & Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly) invites children ages 6-13 to compete.

Ribbons for the top finishers in each age category. 1pm.

350-8920.

January 16-February 3

FREE Exchange Student Open House at the Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library invites High School students to learn more about Foreign Exchange opportunities in the Moore School System. 6-7pm.

20 • Friday Rock Paper Scissors: Based on a True Story at Science Museum Oklahoma features the art of Denise Duong & Matt Seikel. 7-9pm.

Art Now Fundraiser at City Arts Center invites patrons to meet artists, purchase art & enjoy local food & drink. $100 preview sale (5:30-7pm), $75 event (7-11pm).

FREE “Raising Truly Great Kids” Parenting Conference hosted by Metropolitan Baptist Church (7201 W Britton) with speaker Dr. Tim Kimmel of Family Matters. Childcare provided, preregistration required by 1/16. 6:30-9:30pm. 722-2550, www.mbcokc.com.

January 20-February 12 98th Annual School of Art & Art History Student Exhibition at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art highlights the diverse works of art created by art & art history students from the University of Oklahoma.

22 • Sunday Harlem Globetrotters at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $19 & up. 2pm. www.chesapeakearena.com.

Art Now Exhibition at City Arts Center features works from 25 Oklahoma artists from across the state in a variety of mediums.

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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23 • Monday

January 27-February 10

Monday Study Club at 50 Penn Place (1900 NW Expressway) features a presentation by Karen Mannix from Oklahoma Outreach regarding “Adolescent Brain Development: Why Our Teens Do (and Don’t Do) What They Do” & includes lunch. Meets 6 times per year on issues about adolescents & the art of parenting. preregistration Annual dues $25; lunch $12.50. 11:30am1pm. mondaystudyclub@gmail.com.

The Teddy Bear’s Picnic presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre at the Children’s Center for the Arts (2501 N Blackwelder). $9 adults, $6 children ages 2-12.

Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday-Sunday, 2pm.

Melting Pot's Charity Night benefitting St. Jude Children's Hospital (4 E Sheridan) donates 50% of the evening’s sales to the hospital. Reservations, 235-1000.

4-10pm. www.meltingpot.com/oklahomacity.

24 • Tuesday Math Riddle Day at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to learn number tricks that will impress their friends. FREE with paid admission. 9am-5pm.

FREE Helpful Hints for Happy Healthy Kids at the Edmond MAC (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr) offers tips for helping kids stay health and avoid childhood obesity through exercise and healthy snacks. For ages 4 & up.

Preregister. 6:30-8:30pm. 359-4630.

FREE Pine Tree Removal sponsored by OKC Beautiful will be removing pine trees in an effort to halt the spread of pine wilt. Volunteers needed. For details or to volunteer, contact Lauren Dennison at 525-8822 or lauren@okcbeautiful.com. www.okcbeautiful.com.

30th Annual Chocolate Festival benefitting the Norman Firehouse Art Center at the National Center for Employee Development (2801 State Hwy 9 E, Norman) features more than 30 chocolate vendors & children’s art activities. Ticket prices vary; children’s art activities FREE. 329-4523, www.normanfirehouse.com.

Freestyle Motorcross competition at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $20 & up. 7:30pm. www. chesapeakearena.com.

Science of SMO Exhibits at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to learn how SMO exhibits are put together. FREE with paid admission. 9am-5pm.

FREE America by Food Kick Off Event at the Purcell Public Library invites guests to view the new America

by Food exhibit at the Library as well as enjoy a live bluegrass band, crafts, hands-on activities, food, pie contest, ribbon cutting ceremony & more. The Chickasaw Nation will tell the legend & demonstrate making Three Sisters Stew. 1-6pm.

FREE Snowy, Snowy Night at the Belle Isle Library invites Pre-K children to enjoy stories, playtime & decorate with snowflakes & snowmen. Preregister.

10-11am.

FREE Origami for Teens at the Warr Acres Library invites teens ages 12-17 to create simple animals & special designs including items that glow in the dark.

2-3pm.

January 25-February 11

Benefit Concert featuring Edmond native and national recording artist Greyson Chance at the Coca Cola Bricktown Events Center (429 E. California) to benefit the Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center at the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center.

Opening acts include Edmond-based pop band At Long Last and OKC singer Denver Duncan. All ages. $20 in advance, $25 at door. 7pm. 877-990-7882, www. stubwire.com

25 • Wednesday

XANADU by Lyric Theatre at the Plaza (1725 NW 16) is a roller-skating musical spoof of the 1980s film. $40.

Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

26-29 Young Choreographers Showcase presented by the OU School of Dance at the Rupel J. Jones Theatre (563 Elm, Norman) features choreography by graduate & undergraduate students. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 325-4101, www.ou.edu/finearts.

27-28

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28 • Saturday

29 • Sunday Disney Live! Three Enchanted Fairy Tales at the Cox Convention Center features the stories of Snow White, Cinderella & Beauty & the Beast. $17 & up. 1pm & 4pm.

602-8500, www.coxconventioncenter.com.

Waterloo (ABBA tribute group) performs with the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall. $15 & up, 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

Boggess Organ Series at OU Catlett Music Center (500 W Boyd, Norman). $9 adults, $5 students/OU faculty & staff/seniors. 3-5pm. 325-4101, http://aoi. ou.edu.

Homeschool Moms Winter Summit 2012 at Faith Bible Church (600 N Coltrane, Edmond) includes sessions & workshops, Nursing infants only, no child care. $79 by 1/16, $89 after 1/16. 514-1790, www. homeschoolwintersummit.com.

Winter Wind Concert: Chris Trapper at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) presents music & stories. $15. 7-9pm. 307-9320, www. pasnorman.org.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

31 • Tuesday

com/thunder. Other home games this month: 2/14, 17, 19, 20, 22, 23.

FREE Family Craft Night at the Midwest City Library invites families to enjoy craft activities for all ages & skill levels. 6:30-7:30pm.

February 3-5

Moscow Festival Ballet: Sleeping Beauty at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features the story of the princess Aurora. 7:30pm. 2851010, www.armstrongauditorium.com.

FEBRUARY 2012 February 1 Esther Women Luncheon featuring speaker Dr. Scott Carroll at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15) creates dialogue & strengthens fellowship for Christian women as they navigate family, work & spiritual fulfillment. Held the first Wednesday of each month. Preregister. $150 for the year, $20 per individual program. 11:30am-1pm. 232-1371, www. estherwomenokc.org.

February 2 OKC Barons vs. San Antonio Rampage at the Cox Convention Center. 7pm. Tickets $14 & up. www. okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 2/3, 17, 28, 19, 22.

Historical Performance Group at UCO Radke Fine Arts Theatre is the opening concert for the Historical Performance Practice Program. 7:30pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

Jason Aldean "My Kinda Party" Tour at the Chesapeake Energy Arena featuring special guest Luke Bryan.602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com.

February 2-12 Pride & Prejudice presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre & Theatre OCU at the Burg Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) features a play adapted from the Jane Austen novel. Thursday, 11am; Friday, 11am & 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. $12 adults, $8 children ages 2-12.

February 2-19 Same Time, Next Year presented by the OKC Theatre Company at the Civic Center Music Hall CitySpace Mature audiences. $20, $10 preview performance on 2/2. Thursday-Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 297-2264, www.okctheatrecompany.org.

February 3 12th Annual Winter Ball at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum benefits the A.R.T.S. Foundation. All ages welcome. $60, $20 children 12 & under. 6pm. 313-7060, www.annualwinterball.org.

Tri K Winter Barrel Blast barrel racing event at the Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E, Guthrie). 282-RIDE, www. lazye.com.

February 3-March 25 Pictorial Rugs of the Orient Exhibit at the MabeeGerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features a rare assemblage of pictorial rugs from the Middle East. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

February 4 Great Moments of Opera presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features soprano Sarah Coburn. $15 & up. 8pm. 842-5387, www. okcphilharmonic.org.

February 4-May 13 Warrior Spirits: Indigenous Arts of New Guinea Exhibition at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features objects from the permanent collections of the Sam Noble Museum & the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art created & used by the indigenous peoples of present-day Papua New Guinea & West Papua, Indonesia.

February 6 FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Student Jazz Ensemble Concert at UCO Jazz Lab (100 E 5, Edmond) invites guests to enjoy food & drinks from Hideaway Pizza before & during the performance. $7. 7pm. 359-7989, www.ucojazzlab.com.

February 9-11 Valentine Cabaret Dinner & Show at OC Recital Hall (2501 E Memorial, Edmond). 6pm. 425-5530, www. oc.edu/calendar.

FREE Abraham Lincoln & the Indians at the Oklahoma History Center features Lincoln interpreter Fritz Klein in a living history event. 7pm.

February 9-25 Much Ado About Nothing presented by Reduxion Theatre at the Broadway Theater (1613 N Broadway) features Shakespeare’s tale. $17 adults, $13 students/ seniors/military. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm.

590-5715, www.reduxiontheatre.com.

OKC Thunder Basketball vs. Memphis Grizzlies at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 7pm. www.nba.

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No matter what time of year or occasion, you'll find the BEST partyplanning choices in the area right here.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012

January 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Catelynn S., age 5, of Edmond with great grandfather Papa Jack.

Great grandmother Janey, grandmother Susan, granddaughter Sicily B., age 3, of Moore and mother Lori B.

Nile S., 8 weeks old, of Edmond with grandparents George and Wendy of Oregon.

Kylie J., of Washington, with her Mimi Tammy.

Celebrating Generations

In December, our readers submitted photos of their kids spending time with their grandparents.

View all submissions at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/ january-2012-photos.

Nile S., 3 weeks old, of Edmond, with grandmother Barbara.

For our February issue, we're seeking great sibling photos. For March, we'd love to see your family having fun at local area attractions— museums, libraries, playgrounds, parks or anywhere you have fun. Deadline for both categories is Thursday, January 12.

Guidelines and a form to submit your photos can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | January 2012