MetroFamily Magazine August 2012

August 2012

Back to School 10 ways to make this school year the best ever How to manage school, homework & activities

Find over 35 programs in our BIG After-School Activities Guide!

Special Advertising Section

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Over 159 ways to celebrate summer's last hurrah!

Exploring Tulsa for a fun family weekend

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August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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what’s new at metrofamilymagazine.com

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CALENDAR DIRECTORIES BLOGS CONTESTS SAVE MONEY

Would your child like to be a MetroFamily Cover Kid? Now's your chance! MetroFamily's Cover Kids Search starts NOW! Find all details and enter at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cover-kids-search.

Not one but TWO huge projects start this month for MetroFamily readers.

Enter your child into our Cover Kids Search! For $25, you can enter a favorite snapshot photo of your child in one of six age categories. Every participant receives a Fall Fun Pack which includes admission tickets to fun local attractions. Another feature of the project is the opportunity to bring your child in person to our Cover Kids Search/Fashion Rules event at Quail Springs Mall on September 29th, 11am–3pm. This entertaining event will also allow your family to meet Magna Talent Agency representatives, who will be selecting the finalists in each category.

A popular vote in October will decide the winners who will appear on our covers in 2013! Find the details and an entry form at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cover-kids-search. Deadline for online entry is September 25.

Plus, you've been asking for it and here it is: MetroFamily’s Family Favorites! Help determine the awards for the best family-friendly businesses and services in the OKC area by voting in our online ballot! Just for voting, you’ll be eligible for a great holiday getaway to the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas. Thanks to corporate sponsor, Oklahoma Employees Credit Union (OECU), for helping make this project possible. Voting starts August 9th at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites.

Top picks & finds on our website this month Make the back-to-school (and back-to-activities) rush easier with the great resources at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/top-picks: • A list of local schools’ back-to-school dates.

• School supply events and projects—and where to donate school supplies to various local charities.

• In addition to the After-School Activities Guide on page 24 of this issue, find more listings in our online directory at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/after-school-activities.

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents at:

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You could WIN big!

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

• Enter your 300-word story into our Summer Stories Contest and if chosen as the best entry by our judges, you will win a new Kindle Fire. Deadline is August 10.

• Register to win a backpack and other school supplies from Mead/5 Star valued over $120. Deadline August 15.

• Starting August 10, register for two family four-packs to the Kellogg’s Tour of Gymnastics Champions, scheduled for October 4 at Chesapeake Arena.

Prize package includes a meet and greet with some of the gymnasts! Deadline September 10.

• The State Fair is coming (September 13–18) and starting soon, there will be contests for both Disney on Ice tickets and Oklahoma State Fair admission & parking passes. Deadline September 1 (Disney on Ice) and September 3 (State Fair tickets).

• Follow us on Facebook to learn about our Problem Solving Giveaway in conjunction with our morning segment this month on FOX 25.

You could SAVE big!

Find coupons to the businesses listed below at www. metrofamilymagazine. com/okc-family-discounts.

• The Vintage Pearl • Club Z! In-Home Tutoring • Museum of Osteology • Skills for Living • Bouncin’ Craze • Dawn to Dusk Inflatables • Randy Coleman Photography • Hair Care by Kelly Haines • Play Nation playground sets • Jump!Zone • Studio J School of Dance • Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum • Mathnasium • Dr. Mark Youngker, orthodontist • Sooner Bowling • Wyndham Hotel, OKC • Just Between Friends Consignment Sale • Green Goodies by Tiffany (good August 23-31) PLUS, save big bucks with the Kids Pass for 2012-2013 that includes over 30 coupons to local and statewide attractions!

Download it today at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass.

Contents August 2012

Back to School & After-School Activities 6

Dear MetroFamily

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Family Shorts

Editor’s Note.

Community news, resources & other family-friendly information.

16 Oklahoma Reads

Great reads for all ages.

18 Exploring Oklahoma

Celebrate summer’s last hurrah with a weekend in Tulsa.

20 Ask the Expert

Back to school nutrition tips.

22 Real Moms of the Metro

Meet journalist Rachel Calderon.

28 Focus on Education

Expert tips for a successful school year.

30 Problem-Solving Products 31 Character Corner Taking responsibility.

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School, sports, tutoring and more are here. How to tell if your child is over-scheduled and if so, what to do about it.

Why after-school activities are important for your child's development and tips for choosing the right ones for your child and your family.

32 Your Healthy Family

Canker sores: what they are and tips for treatment.

35 Calendar

Fun events, activities and classes.

46 Photo Gallery

Readers share fun first day of school photos.

ON OUR COVER: Julius Ejike-Charles, age 6, is the son of Kara Rose Didier of Oklahoma City.

He will be a 1st grader at Quail Creek Elementary.

PHOTO BY: Randy Coleman, randycolemanphotography.com.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily, When I think back to back-to-school time as a kid, there are a few things that stick out in my memory: jars of paste with the applicator in the lid, a return to the damp blue-texted pages printed by mimeograph (I can still smell them) and fall. I remember back to school clothes as sweaters and jeans, a new pair of sturdy shoes.

Now as I plan for back to school for my kids (who will likely be wearing shorts—not jeans and sweaters), we’re also facing a heat wave the likes of which we haven’t seen since… well, last year. The temperatures in the immediate schedule include “hot,” “really hot” and “still hot.” I don’t know about you, but it’s Bragging on my boy! Spencer won a silver tough for me to get in to the back-to-school for his form and a bronze for sparring at his first mindframe when I’m so focused on how to tae kwon do tournament in July. stay cool! I don’t think we’ll be pulling out sweaters until probably Thanksgiving this year. And I won’t buy jeans until the weather turns at least a little, lest they outgrow them before they have a chance to be worn.

But it is August, and it is back-to-school, no matter what the thermometer tells us. And this is our back-to-school issue to get you into the spirit! We’ve got tips from experts on healthy eating, even in the cafeteria (page 20), tips from teachers on how to have a successful school year (page 28), lots of great ideas for extracurricular activities (page 24) and ways to make sure you and your kids don’t try to pack too much in and get overwhelmed (page 14)!

A new school year presents a new opportunity for parents to find new ways to stay active in our children’s education. How do you make a positive impact for your child? We asked our staff members and they provided us with some great responses, below. Be sure to check them out—and have a wonderful school year!

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

We asked our contributors:

How do you make a positive impact on your child’s education?

Brooke Barnett Assistant Editor

Sarah Taylor Publisher

Shannon Fields Your Healthy Family

Jennifer Geary Exploring Oklahoma

I spend as much time in the classroom as I can, working with the teacher.

I try to keep up with the classroom and the world around us, so we always have something to discuss.

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I make sure he knows I’m interested in what he is learning. We have many lively and fun debates.

As a homeschooling mom, I try to be aware of new books and new methods that can help my kids the most.

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 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 Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Jennifer Bonn, Shannon Fields, Jennifer Geary, Tiffany Guerzon, Sarah Holmes, Sarah Kendall, Heide Smith Luedtke, Jeremy G. Schneider 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 ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2012, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 15, Number 8

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Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

Emergency Help: Learning How to Call 911

By Sara Kendall

Knowing how to make a 9-1-1 call could be the most crucial skill a parent could teach their children, especially at a young age. Preschool-age children (ages 3 and up) need to know what to do in case of emergency, and when it’s appropriate to call 9-1-1. Discuss with your child when you would make this life-saving call—when there is a fire, an intruder or unconscious family members in your home. Just as important, let them know this is not a call to make light of; a missing pet, a skinned elbow or a lost toy are not good reasons to make an emergency call.

Role-playing with your child using a play phone or an old cell phone is very effective to prepare them for an emergency. You play the dispatcher and your child plays the person in need. Ask your child questions like what’s the emergency?, what’s your name?, and what is your address and telephone number? It may not be easy or pleasant, but could be the most important game you ever play with your child.

Ten Dorm-Friendly Products Are your kids heading off to college this fall? Help them be prepared with these helpful products.

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2. The Verilux ReadyLight solar flashlight is lightweight with batteries that recharge with exposure to direct sunlight. A built-in clip keeps it handy. ($30, www.verilux.com)

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School Bus Safety Tips

Back-to-school means back to busy streets. Review these bus safety tips from the National Highway Safety Administration with your kids to help them stay safe:

• Getting on the bus: walk with an adult to the bus stop, wait five giant steps back from the road and wait until the driver tells you it’s safe to board the bus.

• On the bus: go straight to your seat, face forward and listen to the driver.

• Getting off the bus: watch for cars, take five giant steps away from the bus, look leftright-left for oncoming cars before crossing the street. Wait for the driver to signal that it’s safe to cross.

Visit www.nhtsa.gov/parents/parents-bus.html for more tips on back-to-school traffic safety.

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The Master Lock Safe Space is a portable combination safe that keeps small valuables safe.

Lock it up and strap it down to keep your valuables in place. ($20, www. masterlock.com)

Send leftovers in Wean Green Glass Containers, which are small to fit handily in dorm-size refrigerators and can be reused for lunches and snacks on the go. ($11+, www.weangreen.com)

Quirky’s Totem Cups stack up with built-in bumps that allow them to airdry, great for small spaces. ($13/4, www. quirky.com)

Defend against snoring roommates with SleepPhones, a soft headband with built-in headphones for comfortable use while sleeping. ($40, www.sleepphones. com) Pack it all up in the iSafe Bags backpack, a durable and stylish bag with a built-in alarm in case of emergency. ($60, www.isafebags.com)

Take the ick out of tap water with the BobbleJug, which fits in small fridges and comes with a built-in filter. ($25, www.waterbobble.com) Help them keep their iPhones charged with the Eton Mobius solar phone charger. ($80, etoncorp.com)

Bambooee paper towels are reusable, so a roll of 20 sheets lasts as long as 60 regular paper towel rolls. ($13, www. bambooee.com)

10. Help them live stylishly with the Harper Design book Living in a Nutshell, packed with design ideas perfect for small apartment or dorm room. ($25, www.harpercollins.com)

Food allergies in children are increasing, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. While there is no cure, food allergies can be managed through avoidance and prevention—which may not be easy as your child returns to school.

According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), 90 percent of all allergic food reactions are caused by eight common foods: peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, gluten, soy, fish and shell fish. Symptoms commonly include hives, tingling in the mouth, swelling of the tongue and throat, difficulty breathing, abdominal cramps, vomiting or diarrhea, eczema or rash, coughing or wheezing, dizziness and loss of consciousness. How can you help your child navigate food allergies when he returns to school?

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Talk about it. Tell him to never to trade food from lunches or eat anything with unknown ingredients. Encourage him or her to be vigilant about washing hands and find food-allergyfriendly snacks that can substitute for unsafe foods.

2. Have a plan. Download the FAAN’s Food Allergy Action Plan (www.foodallergy.org/files/faap.pdf) and customize it for your child’s needs.

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Find support. Seek out a support group of other parents going through the same situation.

4. Volunteer at school. Whenever outside food is involved, it never hurts to volunteer your time and offer to bring allergenfree snacks for the class or group.

5. Get involved. Currently there are several bills in legislation that could help expand access to life-saving epinephrine, specifically the School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act. Reach out to local representatives and encourage them to support this bill to make epinephrine mandatory in schools.

Photo courtesy of Travel OK.

Back-To-School With Food Allergies

Top 10 Reader Picks: Must-See in OKC

When you think of Oklahoma City, what places truly define our great city? Where do you go to enjoy family fun, and where do you love to take out-of-town guests to showcase our area? We polled our readers for their favorite metro area places and here, in random order, are their recommendations:

• Pop’s 66 (660 W Highway 66, Arcadia; see photo above) • Bricktown (east of downtown OKC)

• Frontier City (11501 NE Expressway)

• Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) • Cattleman’s Steakhouse (1309 S Agnew)

• Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno)

• National Cowboy & Western History Museum (1700 NE 63rd St)

• Oklahoma City Zoological Park & Botanical Garden (2101 NE 50th St) • State Capitol Building (2300 N Lincoln)

• Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave)

Thanks to Kevin R., Jessica H., Cassidy T., Kristen S., Jennifer M., Amy F., Shelia B., Ann Y. and Julie H. for contributing to this list. Visit www.facebook.com/metrofamily to share your thoughts on next month’s list.

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

Ready? Get Set. GO! Taming Morning Chaos

By Tiffany Guerzon

Does your morning routine need a pick-me-up before the school bell rings?

Get Ready: Do as much as possible the night before. Lay out clothes and make packed lunches. Eat breakfast in pajamas so a spill won’t mean changing clothes. Use the clock to help your kids to stay on task instead of lingering over their cereal.

Get Set: Have kids place everything they will be taking to school or day care in a designated spot, from cell phones to lunch boxes. Pack backpacks, and make sure that shoes, hats and coats are by the door, ready to go.

Go: By establishing a routine and prepping the night before, weekday mornings can be pleasant instead of harrowing. And who knows? By saving time, you might even be able to fit in a story or an extra cuddle before the kids leave for the day.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Synthetic Drugs: What You Need To Know

Synthetic drugs, sold under the names K2 or Spice at convenience stores, are becoming a popular way for children to get high.

These products contain herbs sprayed with chemicals that mimic the effects of drugs like marijuana. Other products sold as bath salts contain chemicals that replicate the effects of cocaine or methamphetamine.

Q & A with Chasing James

There is a new local kids band that you need to meet. OKC-area musicians Lisa Curl and Laura Franklin have come together to form Chasing James and here is why your kids will love them: MFM: What led you to start Chasing James?

Laura: Lisa and I have been playing music together for eight years.

When we each had our kids, it was a natural transition to play more kid-focused shows. Our little boys with a common middle name (James) and since we are usually “chasing” them about, it seemed like the perfect name for our new group.

MFM: What do you hope to bring to your audience?

“These products are typically sold in gas stations, so teens and adults often wrongfully assume these products are safer, less harmful than street drugs,” warns Mark Woodward of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics. “But over the past four years, the Bureau has seen a sharp increase in hospital admissions and deaths from these synthetic products, which can increase the heart rate, blood pressure, cause hallucinations and produce other effects that can lead to injury or death.”

The Bureau encourages parents to be aware of suspicious behavior from their teens that might indicate they are abusing these synthetic drugs, including paranoia, sleeping for long periods of time, unprovoked mood swings and agitation. Woodward urges parents to look at website browsing history (these drugs are often sold online) and pay attention to store receipts for unknown product names. Parents can call 1-800-522-8031 or visit www. ok.gov/obndd to learn more or to report convenience stores in their communities that they suspect are illegally selling synthetic drugs.

Lisa: Fun! Confidence! We want everyone to know that they are creative and capable. Our shows and songs are geared towards crowd participation.

MFM: What is the best part about playing music for kids?

Lisa: There’s nothing more joyful than seeing a child smile, sing and dance along to music.

MFM: What are you most excited about with the new CD?

Laura: We wanted to create an album with traditional songs that kids were familiar with. Lisa and I also included a few songs that we wrote while singing to our own kiddos.

Learn more at www.facebook.com/chasingjames.

Additions to Oklahoma A+ Schools Network

Cesar Chavez and Gatewood Elementary Schools in Oklahoma City and Lincoln and Reagan Elementary Schools in Norman are the newest additions to the Oklahoma A+ network of schools. Currently, the network includes more than 70 schools across the state and has a track record of improving test scores, reducing behavioral problems and creating more engaged students.

“We are creating lifelong learners, and we look forward to extending our mission to these four new schools,” said Jean Hendrickson, executive director of Oklahoma A+ Schools. “We focus on reaching students in the ways they learn best… we help our schools better engage students by presenting curriculum in a collaborative, hands- on way.”

Based at the University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma A+ Schools provides regular training and professional development opportunities for teachers and principals, networking opportunities with other schools, and access to resource materials. Schools in Oklahoma must apply to the program, which is free for those selected. For more information, call 405-974-3779 or visit www.aplusok.org.

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Kids Crave Fun in Youth Sports

In a new national survey of children ages 8–14 who play team sports, 84 percent say they sometimes wish they had more fun while playing and 31 percent wished adults weren’t watching their games. The survey of 300 children was commissioned by the nonprofit arm of i9 Sports, the nation’s fastest growing youth sports franchise.

Of the young athletes who participated in the survey, 47 percent say they quit a team or wanted to quit playing because it was no longer fun, 29 percent said teammates were mean and 23 percent say that practices that interfere with other activities. And why don’t they want adults to watch their games? Mostly because adults yell too much, are too distracting, and put pressure on them to play better and win.

The survey also reveals:

• 63 percent say they have fun even if their team loses.

• 42 percent say they would rather play video games than sports.

Why? 74 percent say gaming is more fun, 28 percent say sports can be too competitive, 20 percent say their coach doesn’t let them play as much as they want, and 17 percent say they feel too much pressure to win.

“This survey clearly shows that America needs to reevaluate youth sports, which have become too cut throat and competitive,” says Brian Sanders, COO and President of i9 Sports. “We forget sports are teaching tools for life. Kids are learning behaviors picked up by teammates, coaches and parents. We need to be better teachers.

We need to let kids have fun. ”

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Details and entry form at metrofamilymagazine.com/ cover-kids-search

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Is Your Child Over-Scheduled?

3 Ways to Know, 3 Ways to Help

Back to school! And activities. And homework. You may start seeing signs that your child is too busy. How do you know if you’ve passed the tipping point into over-scheduled? What can you do about it, if so?

Alvin Rosenfeld, M.D., a child psychiatrist and author of The OverScheduled Child: Avoiding the Hyper-Parenting Trap said “Parents feel remiss that they’re not being good parents if their kids aren’t in all kinds of activities. Children are under pressure to achieve, to be competitive. I know sixth-graders who are already working on their resumes so they’ll have an edge when they apply for college.”

With more standardized testing for kids even in elementary school, many kids already feel stress and pressure at a young age. As parents, we try to give our children the best opportunities to realize their potential, while keeping them safe and allowing them to do things that they enjoy. But there comes a point of diminishing returns, when too many activities and responsibilities weigh on our children, causing stress, pressure and anxiety. Even if each activity on its own seems worthwhile, here are some signs that your child is doing too much.

dramatic or it might be gradual as the lack of time for homework, the lack of sleep and other issues come into play affecting their ability to do well at school.

Three Ways to Reverse the Pattern 1.

Issue One: Sleep Problems

Kids who are rushed from one activity to another without any downtime will often have trouble falling asleep at night because they can’t wind down. The adrenaline created by constantly being on the go makes it very hard to relax and fall asleep. Sometimes, children will wake up earlier than necessary, feeling that they have so much to do that they try to sleep less. Conversely, they may be so exhausted from their activities that they struggle to wake up in the morning.

Nightmares, which may affect not only your child’s sleep but yours as well, may become more prevalent as a child’s brain works to process the chaos.

You may also see increased sleep issues during the holidays, when holiday parties and family celebrations are added to their already busy schedules, keeping them out later at night.

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Issue Two: Emotional Outbursts, Frustration and Anxiety.

Kids who don’t have downtime don’t have time to process emotions.

Whether consciously or not, we all use downtime to process our feelings about the day’s experiences. Hurrying from one activity to another without free time to process causes a build-up of emotional energy that needs an outlet. This would be similar to using a colander to strain the water from your pasta, and not cleaning it afterwards.

After a few uses, the strainer will get clogged and won’t allow any more water to pass through. Our brains—and our kids’ brains—work in much the same way.

When kids don’t have time to process the events of their day, emotions become clogged and feelings build up. This may cause children to have emotional outbursts, throw tantrums, or shout angry retorts.

Pent-up emotion may also cause kids to become frustrated when things don’t go smoothly, because they don’t have time to try again.

Finally, non-stop scheduling can present an overload of challenges or make children feel they have too much to handle, which can cause stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can be displayed in different ways: if kids can’t express how they’re feeling verbally, you may see more worries about going to school, expressions of doubt related to their performance, or fear around trying to sleep. Stress and anxiety also can be manifested in headaches or stomachaches.

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Prioritize activities. If you suspect your child is overbooked, talk with her to get a sense of how she is feeling. Ask if she likes her activities, one by one. Find out what she likes about each; ask also whether she misses anything from the time before she had each activity. The goal is to understand her experiences around each activity and where she is benefitting the most and the least— this will help you to prioritize what to keep and what to cancel, which is the next step.

Next, make a priority list of her commitments, based on what’s most important to your family and what’s most important to her.

The older the child, the more involved she can be in this process.

For instance, a religious school activity might take priority over drama. Scouting may win out over lacrosse. To help her to feel more control over her schedule, as well as to understand the difficulty and rewards of decision-making, include her in the decision of which activity to drop. Again, the older she is, the more actively they can participate in these decisions.

Discuss before joining. It’s much easier—and less stressful for everyone—if you can prevent over-scheduling in the first place.

Parents and kids should have a discussion before joining any new activity to make sure it isn’t too much for your children or family.

It’s important to remember that just because a child wants to do an activity isn’t reason enough to do it. Many parents are afraid to set limits when it comes to activities. You may find yourself thinking, “But he really wants to play baseball, even though he is already doing football, guitar and drama club which meets after school.” At some point, parents have to remember that we need to say “no” to our children. We need to make room for our kids to have unscheduled time—to play, to rest, to just be a kid.

Plan ahead. During the school year, allowing kids to sign up for Scouts, soccer, swimming and a computer lab in a single season may be setting the stage for burnout. Consider all activities on her schedule before deciding to add something new; it might be best to postpone an activity for a season when there aren’t as many activities planned.

There are some basic things to consider when determining how much is too much. Having planned activities and no free time every day is too much for anyone. When your kids start having something every day of the week—or even most days—they are probably overbooked.

One or two hours of activities a week for a toddler or preschooler is usually enough, while you may successfully add one or two more hours for kids in elementary school. Teens will be able to do a little more, but factor in more responsibility when it comes to school.

If you feel your child is overbooked, remember there are some activities that are easier to cancel than others. While we don’t want to teach our kids to bail on a commitment, we do want them to know if they have taken on too much, they can scale back their commitments to better accomplish the ones they already have and feel better in the process. This is a life lesson for all of us.

Issue Three: Declining School Performance.

In some cases, there just isn’t enough time to get homework finished between all of the activities. In addition, external activities can demand significant amounts of mental and physical energy, reducing the amount of energy and creativity that your child can apply to learning and completing school assignments. The decline might be

Jeremy G. Schneider, MFT is a syndicated columnist and therapist specializing in parenting and relationships, involved fatherhood, building strong modern families and overcoming depression. Find more at www.jgs.net.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Grades 1+

Liking Myself

By Pat Palmer, Ed.D., Illustrated by Sue Ramá ($13, Boulden Publishing, softcover) A workbook for elementary-age children to help them develop positive self-esteem, understand their feelings and build emotional literacy.

Doodlepedia Edited by Alexander Cox and Elizabeth Yates ($13, DK publishing, softcover) Kids can have hands-on learning fun with this title that features different fun facts on each page with opportunities to create, draw and use their imagination to complete the book.

Grades 3+

The World in Your Lunchbox

By Claire Eamer, Artwork

by Sa Boothroyd ($23, Annick Press, softcover) A week’s worth of fun food facts for kids, with information on foods from ham to chocolate and all things in between.

Kids will learn the history of their favorite (or not-so-favorite!) foods and how to make healthy choices.

The Book of Time

By Adam Hart-Davis (Firefly Books, $30, softcover) Why does time seem to slow down when something awful is happening? Stop when you’re anticipating something? Speed up when you’re having fun? Find the answers to these questions and more in this fun, time-centric science book.

More Interesting Than Your Teacher

By Stuart Wright (Black Dog Publishing, $15, softcover) Accessible and fun answers to pressing questions like who decides when Easter is (page 77) and what are the seven wonders of the world (original and modern: page 101).

The Presidents

By Dennis Gaffney & Peter Gaffney (Hyperion, $25, hardcover) A new way to study the office of the president, the history of our country and the events that have paved the way to present day. The book is divided into 47 weeks of study, starting with the founders and ending with the best and worst moments.

The Totally Awesome Book of Useless Information

By Noel Botham, illustrated

by Travis Nichols (Penguin, $13, softcover) When kids get overwhelmed by the new information barrage at school, this book offers a fun break, including information that you don’t necessarily need, but is fun to have.

Adults

Domestic Commando

By Toni Garcia Carpenter (Wolf Creek Publishing, $12, softcover) Making the choice to stay home to raise your kids?

Good for you! This book is your positive manifesto for taking charge at home.

Let’s Play and Learn Together

By Roni Cohen Leiderman, Ph.D. & Wendy S. Masi, Ph.D. (Fair Winds Press, $19, softcover) Babies and toddlers are learning through every moment of every day. Help make those moments more fun with activities that will entertain and enhance development.

The Muffin Tin Cookbook

By Brette Sember with Melinda Boyd, MPH, MHR, RD (Adams Media, $18, softcover) Portion control is a hot nutrition topic, and it can be made easy when cooking in muffin tins. A fun, easy way to create meals from breakfast through desserts.

Reviews by Mari Farthing.

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We want your opinions!

Starting August 9th, vote for your favorite family-friendly, local businesses in the oKC area!

Details and voting at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites SponSoreD by:

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Exploring Oklahoma Your Guide to a Fun Family Weekend in Tulsa

L

ooking for a weekend getaway that offers something for everyone in the family and won’t bust your budget?

Head up the Turner Turnpike to Tulsa!

Tulsa has a rich history dating back to the first oil boom in the early 1900s. As wealthy businessmen moved to town, Tulsa became an amazing example of Art Deco architecture. The Tulsa Historical Society is a wonderful place to visit to learn more about Tulsa’s history and they offer walking tours of the downtown area on the last Friday of each month. If you can’t make one of their tours, check out www.visittulsa.com and click on maps to print a self-guided walking tour.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Do you have nature lovers in your family?

Tulsa has some gorgeous places to enjoy the outdoors. Oxley Nature Center, located in Mohawk Park, will always be one of my son’s favorite nature centers because of the deer we saw up close on our very first visit.

There are almost nine miles of trails you can hike, and most of them are wheelchair and stroller friendly. The Interpretive Center is a great place to take a break after your hike to explore interactive exhibits about the area wildlife.

The River Parks (1) are the best place in town if you enjoy spending time outdoors.

Paved trails extend along the east bank of the Arkansas River (from 11th Street to 101st Street) with several playgrounds and splash pads along the way. Our favorite is the 41st Street Plaza, which has several fountains for splashing and a unique playground full of equipment that moves. My favorite thing about the area is that both of my children (3 and 8 years old) can entertain themselves for hours and everything is close enough that they can do what they want while I sit underneath one of the huge trees and keep an eye on both of them. This water area also stays open later in the season, which is great since we all know that Oklahoma’s summer weather can last well into the fall.

Watch Some Wildlife

The Tulsa Zoo (2) is always a fun place to visit and it’s even better now with the addition of the Helmerich Sea Lion Cove.

On Labor Day weekend, the zoo will be having an “Elebration,” a celebration of their elephants with different “missions” for guests to complete and earn their own elephant ears!

The Oklahoma Aquarium (3) is the best attraction in the state to see aquatic animals

1

2

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | August 2012

of every shape and size. If you haven’t visited before, you definitely need to make time for it. Exhibits range from sea life to local rivers and lakes. Our favorite is Ozark Stream room, where you can get up close and personal with the otters. Several different areas have touch tanks (free) or feeding tanks (for an extra cost) that are great fun, too. If you visit before Labor Day, check out the aquarium website for a link to the Extreme Water Park on the aquarium grounds for a limited time.

Admire the Art

The Philbrook Museum of Art (3) and Gilcrease Museum (4) are well known for their wonderful and diverse collections and exhibits, but you may not be aware of all the programs they offer for families.

On the second Saturday of each month, Philbrook admission is free and they offer free art projects for families. If you’re not able to make it then, enjoy scavenger hunts and activity backpacks tailored to specific parts of the museum available any time you visit. Don’t forget to sign your kids up for a MyMuseum program, where kids get a free art supply each month when they return with their MyMuseum kit. The gardens and outdoor sculptures are enjoyable

All photos provided by Jennifer Geary.

4

3

throughout the year. There are many steps, which can make strollers or wheelchairs challenging, but there are ramps in most parts to allow everyone to explore.

Gilcrease offers free admission to all visitors on the first Tuesday of each month and also has several family-friendly ways to explore the museum. You can check out a Trailblazer Bag, which has art and artist information and activities, or explore the collections with SmART Cards (which are like art-themed trading cards). There is also a terrific children’s room with many hands-on activities, art, and books. Photography is not allowed inside Gilcrease, so leave your camera behind and just enjoy the experience.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

If you have shopaholics in your family, Utica Square and Cherry Street offer interesting shops that you likely won’t find anywhere else. Utica Square has a mix of local and national retailers and several upscale restaurants. This beautiful shopping center also has different events throughout the year, such as the upcoming Art in the Square

Find It Tulsa Historical Society 2445 South Peoria 918-712-9484; www.tulsahistory.org Admission $5 adults; $3 seniors; children and students free.

Oxley Nature Center 5701 East 36th Street North 918-669-6644; www.oxleynaturecenter.org Free admission; specific programs may have a small charge. Mohawk Park charges a $2 fee (cash only) per car on weekends and holidays April through October.

Tulsa River Parks Riverside Drive from 11th Street to 101st Street 918-596-2001; www.riverparks.org

on Saturday, October 6 from 10am–5pm, where local artists will display their works along the sidewalks. The Cherry Street District has a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, plus a great farmer’s market each Saturday morning through October.

Where to Stay

Our favorite place to stay in Tulsa is the Wyndham Hotel, home to Leapin’ Louie’s Lagoon, an indoor pool and play area with something from toddlers to big kids and an outdoor pool. The rooms are nice, the location is great and you are sure to have fun. The only tricky thing about this hotel is trying to get you kids out of the water to go tour Tulsa!

Jennifer Geary is a homeschooling mom from Broken Arrow, formerly of OKC, who loves to have adventures with her family. Read her blog at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/adventures-in-homeschooling.

Tulsa Zoo 5701 East 36th Street North 918-669-6600; www.tulsazoo.org Admission $8 adults; $6 seniors; $4 ages 3–11; age 2 & under free. Mohawk Park charges a $2 fee (cash only) per car on weekends and holidays April through October.

Gilcrease Museum 1400 Gilcrease Museum Road 888-655-2278; www.gilcrease.org Admission $8 adults; $6 seniors & military; $5 college students; ages 18 & under free.

Free admission for all visitors the first Tuesday of each month.

Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Drive, Jenks 918-296-3474; www.okaquarium.org Admission $13.95 adults; $11.95 seniors & military; $9.95 ages 3–12; age 2 & under free.

Utica Square Utica and 21st Street 918-742-5531; www.uticasquare.com

Philbrook Museum of Art 2727 S. Rockford Road 800-324-7941; www.philbrook.org Admission $9 adults; $7 seniors; ages 18 & under free. Free admission for all visitors the second Saturday of each month.

Cherry Street District 15th Street between Peoria and Utica The Wyndham Hotel, Tulsa 10918 E. 41st Street 918-627-5000; www.wyndham.com

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Ask the Experts Back to School: Healthy Lunch Choices This month’s question: Back to school and back to cafeteria food means that my kids may not be presented with the healthiest options. How can I help them make good food choices for their school lunches?

When you can’t send lunch to school with your kids, it can be a challenge to make sure they pick out healthy options from the cafeteria. One way to help them is to teach them in a fun way about healthy foods and how they fuel the body. There are some great new apps that can help teach nutrition in an engaging, entertaining way that kids can easily retain.*

Of course there are also offline ways to teach your child healthy nutrition, such as books and programs, even current documentaries about healthy nutrition. Whichever way you choose, if you make smart food choices fun, your child will be more likely to remember it next time they have to decide what to put on their cafeteria tray.

* visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/foodapps for a list of fun food apps.

Tamara Walker RN is a talk show host and speaker in Edmond. www.momrn.com.

Taking their own lunch is always a very positive alternative. Buy healthy but fun foods and give kids plenty of choices. Talk with your kids about their lunch choices when they are going to eat at school. Encourage them to make positive and responsible choices. It might also be fun to come up with a system to track their energy levels by what they eat each day. Something like; A “10” means I could play all day, remembered all the questions on the test and was able to

control my mouth. A “1” means I fell asleep in class, had no energy on the playground and didn’t remember my spelling words that we studied last night. Any opportunities to educate and possibly reward your kids for healthy choices is always a plus and it’s an extra benefit when it’s fun as well.

Donnie Van Curen, M.A., LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. 405-823-4302, www. counseling1820.com.

There are several tools that parents can use to try to help children to eat better. If the cafeteria food is not healthy, get active at school through the Parent Teacher Organization or the school’s Healthy and Fit School Advisory Committee—if they don't have one, find out why. These organizations make things happen at the policy level and need your input. Try to pack your child’s lunch so you know he’s getting healthy food more often then not. At home, model good food choices and eat well-balanced meals together at the table. Strive to serve a healthy breakfast and dinner so you know your child is getting effective fuel at least twice a day.

Matt Jacobs, MA, RD, LD, NSCA-CPT is a Sports Dietitian and Fitness Consultant in private practice. Contact him at 405550-7540, mattjacobs29@yahoo.com or oksportsrd.weebly.com.

As a person who has struggled with weight loss, food is a big issue for me. We all feel better physically and mentally when we eat nutritiously, so one of the first questions I ask parents when they talk to me about their child’s poor behavior is “what are you feeding your child?” Food is an important component for children, their behavior, their moods and their learning ability.

I would encourage you to use your meal times to teach your children how to make good nutrition choices; allow them to eat sweets, but in moderation, and teach them that when they do have a sugary treat, they need to couple that with a protein (to help stabilize the sugars in their bodies). Eating at school is a great opportunity for kids to have some freedom and make their own choices. If you feed them well and model good choices for them when you are together, they will make better choices when they are on their own.

Devonne Carter, LCSW, is a Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Edmond. 405326-3923, www.carterscounseling.com.

Our Readers Respond:

• Make sure your kids know that colorful foods are often healthier. Have them load up on red, yellow and green options and mimimize the brown, white or beige.

• Let your kids go to the grocery store with you. Not only can they choose things to go in their lunch, you can talk about what foods are healthy and what foods are not.

Hopefully they will remember next time they eat at school.

• Ask your kids every day what they ate for lunch and then come up with a point system for deciding how healthy each food choice was. If they get enough points for choosing healthy during the school week, plan a fun treat for the family on the weekend.

• Practicing good lunch choices at home equals kids knowing what to choose at school.

Thanks to Mary R., @TheMomOnTheGo, Samantha L. and Sarah T. for your feedback.

Have a question for our experts? Email it to editor@metrofamilymagazine.com.

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August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Real Moms of the Metro Meet Rachel Calderon: Broadcast Journalist and Mother

R

Dedicated to living life with a purpose, Rachel recently joined the Team in Training (TNT) program for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, raised over $7,500 and completed her first endurance run in honor of her mother’s successful battle against multiple myeloma. “What started out as a way to show gratitude and honor my mom turned into so much more,” Rachel explains.

“I made some amazing friends through TNT, raised money for a worthy cause, and educated more people about blood cancers.”

Here’s more about what keeps this mother of one working to make a difference: What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about living a life of purpose. It’s important to spend time doing what you love because, if not, you are wasting time—and moms know how valuable time is.

How has motherhood changed you?

Becoming a mother has realigned my

Quick Facts About Rachel 1. What are five words that describe you? Talkative, loyal, passionate, adventurous, purposeful.

2. How do you spend time alone? Organizing photographs, reading or going for a run.

3. What’s your favorite family outing? A quick breakfast at Jimmy's Egg, then the OKC Zoo or the Orr Family Farm.

4. What’s always in your handbag? My cell phone, hand sanitizer, sunglasses and digital camera—just in case breaking news happens, I'm prepared!

5. Coffee or tea? Coffee! Can't go a day without it since I'm at work at 3:30am!

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Photo by Autumn Moore Photography, www.autumnmoorephotography.com

achel Calderon admits to receiving high marks on her kindergarten report card in every area but one—under “self control,” her teacher wrote “likes to talk.” A fitting comment for a young girl who grew up to become a broadcast journalist and who, as an adult, strives to be a source of information and inspiration for those around her. Having worked at news stations in Wyoming, Michigan and California, Rachel spent 19 months as a stay-at-home mom to son Tyson (now 2 years old) before returning to the news last year.

The Calderon family: Justin, Tyson (age 2) and Rachel.

purpose and made me value myself. I want my son to be proud of the person I am and I want to provide him with inspiration.

How do you banish stress?

There’s nothing better than a mani-pedi.

What inspires you?

My husband Justin manages a full time job, a budding music career, MBA courses and, of course, the demands of marriage and a toddler. I’m in awe and inspired by his optimism and perseverance!

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

I have been a broadcast journalist for more than 12 years. Currently, I am the Traffic Anchor and General Assignment Reporter for KOCO Eyewitness News Five in the Morning.

What do you like most about your job?

No day is predictable. Just when I think I can plan out my day at work, a breaking news story might happen. That constant “on your toes” feeling is exciting.

What is on your wish list?

I have traveled to 40 of the 50 US states and dozens of countries in Europe and Asia, but I want to add Australia and South America to that list!

What are you most proud of?

I started a gratitude journal several years ago and I write down what I'm grateful for every day and put things into action.

What motivates you?

It’s easy for me to be motivated when I have a specific goal. It’s not enough for me to say “I just want to be happy;” I have to figure out what happy feels or looks like.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | August 2012

How do you find balance in your life?

It’s a constant challenge but I never give up trying. I chose my schedule because it offers me the option to do what I love, and be home for dinner with my husband and son. I grew up with both my parents at the dinner table, so when I decided to return to work, being home for dinner was my priority.

Advice for other moms?

Know that YOU MATTER. We often put our own needs last, so it’s easy to fall into that trap of feeling like what we do or who we are doesn’t matter.

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

I grew up in St. Clair, Michigan and got my journalism degree from the University of Southern California. I moved to Oklahoma in 2011 when my husband’s job was transferred here.

What’s the biggest challenge in your life?

I sometimes feel insecurities about how I am doing with my family and work, but I just have to know I'm doing my best.

How do you help others?

I use my job as a journalist to tell stories of people who may teach us all something.

What is your parenting style?

I’m not a yeller, but I'm stern when I need to be. I also show him lots of affection and “I love you” is said many times each day.

Follow Rachel on Twitter at @ RachelTRAFFIC

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Special Advertising Section

After-School Activities Guide

Time for back-to-school doesn’t mean the end of fun! There are a plethora of choices for after-school activities for your family, whether you are looking for arts, sports or enrichment. Use the color-coded key to find the activities that are right for your child and be sure to tell them that you found it in MetroFamily! Also visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/after-school-activities for more information.

Venue

Address

Contact

    

Academy of Dance Arts

718 S Mustang Road, Mustang

Alliance Française d'OKC

   

Fees

Details

405-324-7600, www.

Classes academydanceartsok.com begin 8/6

Varies

Instruction in ballet, jazz, pointe, tap, modern, pom, creative movement & Zumba for ages 2+.

Oklahoma City

405-748-0868, www. afdokc.org

Late September

$125– $150 / session

French instruction for grades preschool–5 held in 8-week sessions.

Be Wild for Art

1006 24th Avenue NW, Norman

405-307-9971, www. bewildforart.com

Fall program beings 9/5

$35– $125

Art After School Program includes pottery and clay, mixed media, painting, fused glass and fiber art. Single session and four week session activities. Ages 6+.

Bouncin Craze

14901 N Lincoln Boulevard, Edmond

405-607-2020, www. bouncincraze.com

Ongoing

$7.50 / child

Drop-in, indoor active play for ages 2+.

Can Do Kids and Spectrum Therapy

15 E Ayers, Edmond

405-513-8186, www. spectrumtherapycenter. org

Ongoing

Varies

Occupational and speech therapy programs for all ages.

City Arts Center

3000 General Pershing Drive, OKC

405-951-0000, www. cityartscenter.org

Ongoing

Varies

Art camps and activities for ages 5+.

Club Z! Tutoring

3200 E Memorial Road, Edmond

405-478-3515, www. clubztutoring.com/okc

Ongoing

Varies

One-on-one tutoring with certified teachers for preschool and up at your home or alternative location.

College Nannies & Tutors of Edmond

1333 N Santa Fe Avenue, Edmond

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

Ongoing

Varies

Certified, screened, responsible nannies for before/after care needs and one-on-one tutoring and college prep.

Creative Adventures

10455 N May Avenue, OKC

405-751-1002, www. creativeadventuresour childrenarespecial.webs. com

Ongoing

Varies

Offering Ballet/Creative Movement (ages 2-6); Piano (ages 4-6); Guitar (ages 6-18); Art Classes and more.

    

The Dance Department

1110 S Air Depot, OKC

405-732-7722, www. thedancedepartmentokc. com

Classes begin 8/20

$35–$40 / class

Multi-class discount available. Instruction in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip-hop and creative movement for ages 3+.

Edmond Parks & Recreation

2733 Marilyn Williams Drive, Edmond

405-359-4630, www. edmondok.com/parks/rec

Various

$8–$30

Sewing, bisque painting, acrylic painting, Halloween & Thanksgiving crafts plus special teen classes. Activities for all ages including parent-child preschool classes.

Edmond Parks & Recreation Archery

2733 Marilyn Williams Drive, Edmond

405-359-4630, www. edmondok.com/parks/rec

Ongoing

$30

After school archery program for ages 8–17.

  

Fine Arts Institute 27 East Edwards, Edmond of Edmond

405-340-4481, www. edmondfinearts.com

Fall session 8/27–10/6

$28– $165

Art, theater and music classes for all ages.

Guitar for Kids & Adults

201 E Campbell # 102, Edmond

405-340-8294, www. guitarforcoolkids.com

Ongoing

$100– $120/ month

Electric and acoustic guitar lessons for ages 6+.

Students learn to read music, understand rhythms and play songs solo or in a band. Parent participation program available.

Gymboree Play & Music of OKC

11928 N May Avenue, OKC (Northpark Mall)

405-755-3445, www. gymboreeclasses.com

current session 8/1–10/31

$49–$99

Play, music, art and family classes for children up to age 5 plus open play times.

        

 

Dates

Key:  Sports /  Early-learning/preschool /  Arts /  Enrichment /  Drop-in

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www.metrofamilymagazine.com | August 2012

Special Advertising Section

Venue

Address

Contact

Dates

Fees

Details

 

i9 Sports

Edmond (practice & game field located near Santa Fe & Danforth)

405-225-7048, www. i9sports.com

Fall season 9/24–11/17

$100– $119

Youth sports leagues, camps, clinics and after school programs with a focus on fun, safety and convenience.

Includes flag football, soccer, basketball, t-ball and cheerleading. For ages 3–14.

 

Kumon Math and Reading

Edmond 405-216-9800; Edmond North 405-7151111; Mustang 405-376-6400; Norman 405-3641600; OKC North 405-752-2000; OKC Northwest 405-721-7323; OKC South 405-691-8900; Yukon 405-494-3010, www.kumon.com

Ongoing

Varies

Systematic and individualized method to help students in grades preschool+ develop solid math and reading skills.

  

14020 North Mad Science of Western Avenue, Central Oklahoma Edmond

405-285-9643, www. madscience.org/okc

Ongoing

$48+ / month

After-school programs with hands-on activities that instill a clearer understanding of science and how it affects the world around us. For preschool–grade 8.

Mathnasium of North OKC

14101 North May, OKC

405-241-6284, www. mathnasium.com/ northokc

Ongoing

$209+ / month

Personalized, individual tutoring in math for grades 2+.

Homework and test prep assistance available.

   

OCU Community Dance Center

2501 N Blackwelder, OKC

405-208-5508, www.okcu. Classes edu/communitydance begin 8/27

$45– $100

Dance classes for ages 3+ include tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop and creative movement. Scholarships available.

Open house 8/25, 10am–noon.

OCU Performing Arts Academy

2501 N Blackwelder, OKC

405-208-5410, www.okcu. edu/music/academy

Classes begin 8/6

$250– $600 / 16-week session

Programs in Kindermusik (beginning 9/4), music theater, acting and private lessons for instruments and voice for all ages. Sibling discounts & financial aid available.



OKC RIVERSPORT

725 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC

405-552-4040, www.riversportokc.org

Season starts in September.

Contact for details.

Co-ed Junior Canoe/Kayak Team for ages 11+, Chesapeake Junior Crew for age 13+. Practice at Oklahoma River or Lake Overholser, after school & weekends.

 

Oklahoma Children's Theatre

2501 N Blackwelder, OKC

405-606-7003, www.

Classes oklahomachildrenstheatre. begin 9/8 org

$150– $250

After-school, weekend, seasonal camps and acting classes for ages 4+.

  

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

415 Couch Drive, OKC

405-236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

Ongoing

Varies

Classes in visual art techniques for all ages plus regularly scheduled free drop-in art activities.

Oklahoma Rock Academy

8932 South Western 405-582-0773, www.

Avenue, OKC oklahomarockacademy. com

Beginning 8/6

$145– $175

Oklahoma's first 100% performance-based music program for musicians ages 8+. Lessons on guitar, bass, drums, keys and vocals.

            

OU Sooner Flight Academy

1928 Goddard Avenue, Norman

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

September through May 2013

Varies

Programs for grades kindergarten+ including airport field trips, day camps, customized mobile aviation programs & Sooner Kids’ Science Club.

Paint Your Art Out

10 S Broadway, Edmond

405-513-5333, www. paintyourartout.net

Ongoing

$20 +

After-school open studio painting held Tuesday–Friday until 5:00pm.

Paint' N Station

7906 N May, OKC

405-842-7770, www. paintnstation.com

Ongoing

$7 +

Drop-in hands-on art activities for all ages.

Poteet Theatre Arts Education

222 NW 15th Street, OKC

405-609-1026, www. poteettheatre.com

Register in person, 8/30 5–7:30pm

$35 / month per class

$25 fee per class registration. Performance classes, acting, musical theatre, ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, modern and Irish dance. Private lessons in voice, acting and instruments available. For ages 4+.

405-840-1686, www. sensationalkidsokc.com

Ongoing

$65– $120

Occupational and speech therapy related to social interactions, handwriting, dressing, coordination, speech and more held weekly, bi-weekly or bi-monthly. All ages.

Fees may be covered by individual insurance.

 

Skills For Living, Inc.

405-360-5552, www. skillsforliving.net

Ongoing

Varies

Occupational therapy for all ages with sensory processing disorder. Programs address homework (handwriting, focus, fatigue), social skills, self help skills, feeding issues and gross and fine motor challenges.

Sensational Kids, 14715 Bristol Park Boulevard, OKC Inc. 330 W Gray, Norman

Key:  Sports /  Early-learning/preschool /  Arts /  Enrichment /  Drop-in

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Special Advertising Section

Venue

Address

Contact

Dates

Fees

Details

 

SoccerCity OKC

4520 Old Farm Rd, OKC

405-748-3888, www. soccercityokcity.com

Free open house held 9/8, 10am– noon

$28+

Lil’ Kickers Child Development Program for 18 months–9 years. 50 minute age appropriate sessions teach technical skills and mastery.

    

SPARK After School Program

1001 NW 25th Street, OKC

405-525-0018, www. fpcokc.org/spark

Ongoing

$30 for am; $70 for pm

Before/after care plus tutoring and programs working with OKC Arts Council. Full day programs offered during school breaks. Enrollment $35.

Studio J School of Dance

16614 N Western, Edmond

405-348-3377, www. studiojdanceok.com

Classes begin 8/27

$48+ / month

After-school dance classes for ages 3-18 include ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and pointe.

TSW Theater Group

700 West Street, Edmond

405-471-7470, www. metrofamilymagazine. com/tsw

Class begins 9/11

$100/ month

Theater classes for students ages 11–17. Students will learn the art of acting while preparing a show.

 

Twist and Shout Training Center

14801 N Lincoln Boulevard, Edmond

405-775-9491, www. shouterspirit.com

Classes begin midAugust

$85– $220 / 8-week session

Recreational and Competitive Cheer and Tumbling held at 3 locations (Midwest City, Edmond & Tulsa). For ages 3+. First class is free.



Unpluggits Playstudio

575 Enterprise Drive, 405-340-7584, Edmond www.unpluggits.com

Ongoing

$7–$20

Drop-in Paint'n Play for all ages held Tuesday–Sunday until 6pm or later. Includes painting, stamping, stencils, indoor playground, air hockey, sand table, train table and hands-on fun for children.

   

Velocity Dance Center

11122 N Rockwell Ave, OKC

405-721-8807, www. velocitydancecenterokc. com

Classes begin 9/22

$33+

Dance classes for ages 2+ include ballet, jazz, tap and hip hop. Open house held every Tuesday & Thursday in August, 4:30–7:30pm.

Victory Dance

4401 N MacArthur Boulevard, OKC

405-717-1250, www. victorydance.tv

Classes begin 9/4

$45–$65

Classes in preschool dance, ballet, jazz, tap, acro, contemporary, Broadway and hip hop for ages 3+.

YMCA of Greater OKC

500 N Broadway, OKC

405-297-7777, www.ymcaokc.org

Fall & Spring sessions

$40–$70/ month

Programs in arts, character development, health & wellness, fitness, science, and conflict resolution. Kids in Action program at some locations for children in half-day school.

    

Key:  Sports /  Early-learning/preschool /  Arts /  Enrichment /  Drop-in

Tips for Choosing After-School Activities

• Movement. After-school sports encourage persistence, provide exercise and more. John Ratey, M.D., Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and author of Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, prescribes exercise for kids with ADHD (and everyone else) because exercise boosts mood, improves learning and memory and relieves stress.

• Leadership. Extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, are ideal places for kids to explore and practice what it means to be a group leader, says Kuczmarski.

What to Consider • Logistics. After-school activities can provide balance to a class Before signing up, do your homework. These guidelines will help you schedule that is overly academic, Kuczmarski says, if locations and sort the best from the rest. timing fit your lifestyle. And remember that good programs don’t necessarily cost big bucks.

• Content. Let kids choose activities based on their personal interests, As you weigh the options, keep in mind this goal: You want your child says Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., author of The Sacred Flight of the to be a well-rounded citizen and a healthy, happy person, says Hill.

Teenager: A Parent’s Guide to Stepping Back and Letting Go. Help After-school activities can provide enrichment, adventure and variety. them find activities that reflect who they are and what they want to They shouldn’t be driven by high-stakes testing and they shouldn’t be learn, instead of imposing your preferences on them. Kids flourish box-fillers for college applications. when they’re deeply engaged.

Kids who participate in after-school programs have better school attendance, higher grades and loftier aspirations about graduation and college attendance, according to The Afterschool Alliance, an information clearinghouse and advocacy group. They’re less likely to use drugs or get into trouble with police, and—because they log less screen time—kids in after-school programs are at lower risk of obesity. Kids also develop social and leadership skills in after-school programs, as they interact with peers in cooperative roles.

• Quality. Discipline-based activities that allow kids to create a quality product over a period of time are best, says Sara Hill, Ph.D., Senior Consultant for the National Institute on Out-of-School Time.

For instance, kids might learn math and science by building a boat or practice art and leadership by putting on a play or musical.

• Staffing. Staff members should have legitimate skills and experience. Programs with strong community connections usually have the best resources, Hill says. Kids may get to work with talented artists, scientists and athletes from local organizations.

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Innovative programs promote learning without rote or repetition. If you can’t find quality after-school activities near you, contact your school district to advocate for programs you’d like to see. Out-ofschool shouldn’t mean out-of-opportunities.

Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist, mother of two, and former educator. www.heidiluedtke.com/blog.

Reach over

80,000 readers.

Connect with moms of central Oklahoma.

Call Today!

M

F

The search is on to find fresh faces and bright smiles to light up our covers in 2013!

’s

405-601-2081

Enter MetroFamily’s Cover Kids Search today!

Submit a quality, snapshot photo of your child through our website, www. metrofamilymagazine.com/cover-kids-search, by September 25th.

Categories include: Ages 0-18mos • 19 mos-3 years • 4-7 years • 8-11 years • 12-18 years • Special Needs (All ages, 0-18) See website for all rules, details and entry form.

SPONSORS:

Entry fee is $25 per child and the first 200 participants will receive a Fall Fun Pack that includes tickets to fun local attractions.

Finalists in each category will be chosen by Magna Talent Agency then the public will determine each category’s winner via online voting. Each of the six winners will be professionally photographed and featured on one of our covers in 2013!

Plan to attend our fun Cover Kids Search event sponsored in conjunction with Quail Springs Mall’s event, Fashion Rules, on September 29, 11am3pm (attendance not required to enter contest). At this event, entrants will enjoy stage entertainment, hands-on activities and more. Entrants will meet representatives from Magna Talent Agency and have their photo taken by Glamour Shots, with a mock-up of their child on a MetroFamily cover being provided to the family a few weeks after the event.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ cover-kids-search 405-601-2081 • info@metrofamilymagazine.com

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

27

Focus on Education Ten Ways to Make This School Year Great

A

ll parents hope for a great school year for their children. There are dreams for a teacher who will inspire them, friends who will bring them joy and activities that ignite a passion. Everyone knows that each year comes with potential challenges as well. Here, local experts weigh in to provide us with ways to make sure the positives outweigh the negatives.

She will be able to focus better if she can work in a nice clean area.

Julie Dill, mother of two elementary-age children and a Moore Public School kindergarten teacher, also recommends keeping basic homework supplies such as pencils, paper, crayons, glue and scissors handy to help facilitate homework completion.

1. Open lines of communication. Make sure the school has your correct contact information and that you have the teacher’s email address. There are many times during the year when the school may need to get in touch with you quickly (and you want them to reach you easily), especially in case of illness.

And when you need to reach your child's teacher, email is typically the best form of communication.

4. Be organized. When important paperwork comes home, put it in a designated spot.

3. Work smarter. Create a clean, distraction-free work area for your child.

2. Know the rules. Read through the handbook and highlight important information such as rules for checking out your child for doctor’s appointments.

“A lot of my students struggled with organizational skills, especially transitioning from elementary to middle school,” says Stephanie Higley, former seventh grade reading teacher in Moore Public Schools. “Model organization for your child, require your child to use a planner and show her how you keep track of important information. Good organization needs to be learned and often results in dramatically improved grades.”

Dusty Crabtree, a high school teacher in Yukon, recommends making organization a priority from the beginning of the year. “Set time aside each evening to go through all paperwork, syllabi, forms that need signatures, etc., with your child.

Make sure she puts all papers in the appropriate class folders to take to school the next day.”

Dill adds, “Although parents should consistently check for completion of assignments, a student agenda planner or calendar will help encourage organizational independence,” says Julie.

5. Write it down. Keep a calendar of important school dates. It is so easy to forget about an early-release day, for example, if it isn’t written on your family planner.

6. Help but don’t take over. Guide younger children through their homework without doing it for them.

Offer assistance to older children if needed and check homework upon completion. “You’re not helping them if you do it for them,” says Stephanie. “And teachers can totally tell. I did, however, LOVE the handful of parents who took advantage of my suggestion to read our class novels along with us. It was so cool to hear what they thought of it and how the conversation and critical thinking continued at home.”

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7. Set a consistent bed time. Children really need consistent schedules and they need plenty of rest even more. Even teenagers need to have a bedtime. “Their brains are developing so much at that age and sleep is an incredibly important part of this development,” says Stephanie.

8. Eat dinner together. This will be the time when your child lets you know what happened at school. “Ask them about their day—what they've learned, their teachers, the funniest moment, what they're reading, school activities, their friends,” says Stephanie. Dinnertime is a great time to find out what’s making your child tick.

9. Communicate with teachers. It takes a team effort to ensure your child’s success, so when you have information that the teacher should know or you have questions for the teacher, let him or her know. Be reasonable about the frequency of communication though.

An expectation for a daily email would be inappropriate. Teachers really do not have a lot of down time so limit your communication to when it’s really necessary. “Building a bridge between home and school ensures success,” says Julie.

Kristen Hoyt, Assistant Professor in the School of Teacher Education at Mid-America Christian University, recommends asking the teacher for her planning times so you know when it is best to contact her during the school day. Stephanie agrees. “Establish contact when the school year starts and build rapport throughout the year.”

10. Think ahead. Organize everything the night before for the next day. Your morning will run much more smoothly if you do not have to run around preparing things. Starting off on a calm note can give your child a good start to the day.

“Putting baskets and hooks by the exit door for backpacks, umbrellas and lunch boxes is helpful,” recommends Kristen.

With an emphasis on planning, organization and communication, you can help your child's school year get started well—and finish successfully, too.

By Jennifer Bonn with additional contributions by Mari Farthing.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Problem Solvers Helpful Family Products

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

Problem:

Science is boring!

Solution:

Not when it’s the Wallace & Gromit’s World of Invention DVD, featuring fun and interesting lessons in science. ($15, www. wallaceandgromit.com)

Problem:

You need a sturdy container to send lunch from home.

Solution:

The Good Bites Sandwich Box is a sturdy and stylish way to send lunch to school. ($6, www.ginsey.com)

Problem:

Your brave little explorer is afraid of the dark.

Solution:

The Coghlin’s Bug Eye Headlight fits on his forehead providing hands-free light in dark spaces. ($15; www. coghlans.com)

Problem:

The kids are on the computer and you can’t always monitor them.

Solution:

The Chatman PC Friend connects to the USB port and provides fun interaction for kids while connecting to safe websites. ($70, www.mychatman.com)

Problem:

Back to school with food allergies turns sweet treats into a pitfall

Solution:

Gimbal’s candies are allergen-free (no peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, gluten, transfats, shellfish or soy), kosher and best of all, delicious. ($1+; www.gimbalscandy.com)

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Character Corner Encouraging Resonsibility In the book How To Have Kids with Character, author Nadine M. Brown cites a study where successful men and women had one trait in common—they had been given responsibility at a young age. It can be diificult (and sometimes messy) to teach kids responsibility, especially when it’s often easier to do it yourself, but helping them to become successful and contributing members of society makes it worthwhile.

If you want children to keep their feet on the ground, put some responsibilities on their shoulders. ~ Abigail Van Buren (Dear Abby)

Help Your Family to be Responsible

Here are some ideas from Brown’s book on ways to overcome the most common challenges when teaching responsibility:

1. Attitude is everything! Make work as fun as possible, rename chores “acts of service” and discourage whining.

2. Don’t expect perfection, or require that your kids do things exactly how you would do it. Try not to redo their work if it’s not done how you would do it.

3. Reward and praise small efforts, and then reward and praise some more.

4. Start small with a simple system for your family giving set deadlines for specific tasks.

5. Don’t give up. Kids will eventually learn with enough repetition, consistency, and determination. Think long term; the earlier kids learn to be responsible without complaining the better it will be for everyone.

Game: Responsibility Charades. Take turns acting out household tasks or occupations (doctor, fireman, policeman, mom). Discuss ways to be responsible in these occupations.

Resources: The Super Red Racer, Junior Discovers Work by Dave Ramsey; The New Baby (also called Baby Dear) by Esther Wilkin; Berenstain Bears: A Job Well Done by Stan and Jan Berenstain; Arthur’s Pet Business by Marc Brown.

“I will” statements. Encourage responsibility in your family 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: keep my promises • not make excuses • do my work to the best of my ability • correct my mistakes • know and do my duty.

Sarah Holmes specializes in family character consulting and has three young children. Find her at www.theparentingmom.com.

I Will statements courtesy of Character First, www.characterfirst.com.

Editor’s note: This is Sarah’s last column for MetroFamily; we extend our heartfelt thanks to Sarah for her contributions.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Your Healthy Family Canker Sores: Causes and Treatments

M

outh ulcers (Aphthous stomatitis) are a very common, often painful problem. Also known as canker sores, mouth ulcers are shallow sores found on the inner cheeks, lips or gums; are white, yellow or red in color; and occur in clusters.

Around 20 percent of the population may experience recurrent mouth ulcers, with the sore(s) occurring in one area of the mouth and reappearing shortly after initially healing.

Mouth ulcers are not generally caused by infection, and therefore are not contagious.

Most heal without treatment in one to two weeks, but can be very painful, causing discomfort when eating, speaking or swallowing. In many cases, a cause can be identified that will prevent the occurrence of canker sores.

Types and Causes

There are three types of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS): minor, major and herpetiform.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment is typically reducing discomfort, though there are measures that may prevent outbreaks. Mouth trauma appears to be the most common cause of mouth ulcers. Many kids and adults suddenly start developing canker sores when they begin orthodontic treatments. Braces and other appliances can rub at thin skin, causing irritation, which can eventually lead to mouth ulcers. In some cases, your orthodontist can make adjustments to prevent the appliance from rubbing against your gums. It’s also important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid causing abrasions.

Certain dietary triggers may also cause mouth ulcers. Foods with a high acid content, such as citrus fruits have been closely linked to the development of mouth ulcers, and studies show there may be a strong correlation to certain food allergies or sensitivities. Nutritional deficiencies may also play a role so if you suffer from frequent outbreaks, a visit to the doctor may help rule out those possibilities. Supplementing the deficient nutrients will help prevent mouth ulcers.

• Minor aphthae account for 75–85 percent of all cases. They are small—usually 10 mm or less—and round, found inside the cheeks or lips, on or under the tongue, or In the event of an outbreak, there are several on the gums, often in clusters. treatments using common over-the-counter • Major aphthae are generally deeper medications or household items, which may and larger, making up 10–15 percent of offer pain relief: cases. They may exceed one centimeter in • Salt water solution. Rinse mouth as diameter, and usually occur singly. needed with a solution of ½ teaspoon salt • Herpetiform lesions are the least common, dissolved in eight ounces (1 cup) of water. may occur in large numbers and are usually one–three millimeters in diameter. • Maalox/Diphenhydramine solution.

Combine 1–2 tablespoons of Maalox (or an While the exact cause is unknown, several equivalent product) with ½ tablespoon of factors appear to trigger RAS. In many cases, Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) liquid. Swish these factors may be identified and avoided 1-2 teaspoons for one minute and spit it out. to prevent or reduce outbreaks, though rarely, This may be done every four to six hours.

RAS is caused by a disease or condition outside the patient’s control. Factors affecting • Over-the-counter numbing medications such as Anbesol or Orabase may be used RAS include: as directed.

• Low levels of certain nutrients, particularly In certain cases, a dentist or doctor may iron, B12, zinc, folic acid and vitamin C. prescribe an antibiotic mouthwash, a topical • Hormonal changes (such as menstrual steroid or an acid solution that can cauterize cycle). and dry up the sore. Be sure to contact your • Stress. provider if sores recur frequently, last longer • Food sensitivities, especially high acid than two weeks or if pain is intolerable. content or certain preservatives.

• Mouth trauma, such as a sharp tooth or dental appliance.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer from • Bechets disease, an auto-immune Edmond and a Certified Pharmacy Technician condition. at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

• Bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis • Skin diseases such as Lichen Planus or Herpes Simplex.

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August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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SEPTEMBER

1 –3 st

rd

Arts Festival Oklahoma The 34th annual Arts Festival Oklahoma will be held September 1–3 and features 160 handcrafted art booths, performances by local and internationally-recognized musicians and a variety of specialty food. The event also features a children’s tent to help young artists create their own masterpieces. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic provides entertainment on Sunday, September 2 at 8pm, followed by a fireworks display at sundown. The festival takes place on the north end of the Oklahoma City Community College campus, located at SW 74 and May Ave. Festival hours are 10am–9pm on Saturday and Sunday, and 10am–5pm Monday. Admission is free; parking is $5 per vehicle. For more information, call 405-682-7576 or visit www. occc.edu/afo.

Photo courtesy of Oklahoma City Community College.

ALL MONTH

ALL MONTH

AUGUST

11

th

Myriad Gardens The Family Classroom youth classes at the Myriad Botanical Gardens include activities involving natural materials for ages 7–12 (or younger with parent). Held from 10am-noon, upcoming class topics include Solar Cooking (August 11), a Water Balloon Throwing Contest (August 18) and a flower scavenger hunt (August 25). The family-friendly film series Movies Under the Stars will be held every Wednesday at 9pm through August 29.

Storytimes in the Garden held Wednesdays & Fridays at 10am for ages 2–4. On Saturdays & Sundays from 11am–5pm, you can also rent interactive games and remote control sailboats for a nominal charge. Call 405-297-3611 or visit www.myriadgardens.org for details and pricing.

Photo courtesy of the Myriad Gardens.

Rush Springs Watermelon Festival The 68th Annual Rush Springs Watermelon Festival will be held on Saturday, August 11 in Rush Springs. Located approximately 1 hour southwest of the OKC metro, this popular festival entertains approximately 25,000 visitors each year and serves up over 50,000 pounds of watermelons from area melon growers.

Ongoing entertainment includes exhibits, stage shows, arts & crafts fair, seed spitting contest, coronation of the 2012 Watermelon Queen & carnival. Admission to the festival is free, and watermelon slices are free beginning at 4pm.

For more information, call 580-476-3745 or visit www.rushspringswatermelonfestival.com Photo courtesy of Redstone Images Photography, Charla Gilleland.

Martin Park Nature Center Butterflies! Butterflies! will be held on Saturday, August 11 at 10am at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Butterflies play an important role in our ecosystem, and families can learn about the surprising habits of these winged wonders from nature photographer and national butterfly expert Bryan Reynolds of the Butterflies of World Foundation. Learn about their biology, behavior and how you can help ensure their longevity in our world.

Martin Park Nature Center is also offering a Herpetology Camp on August 18 and Mother Nature’s Rx program on August 25. Call 7550676 to register, or visit www.okc.gov/parks/ martin_park for more information.

Image courtesy of Bryan Reynolds, www.botwf.org.

August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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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 Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org 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 522-0765, 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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August 2012 August 2–5 Crazy for You at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features the musical by George & Ira Gershwin performed by a teenage cast. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 2pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm.

321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

August 3 Parents’ Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) features crafts, playground & pizza for ages 5+. $25, add a sibling or friend for $20 more.

Preregister. 6:30-10pm. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

August 3–4 Edmond Quilt Festival 2012 at the UCO Fieldhouse in Edmond features a juried show with vendors, door prizes, demos & raffle quilt drawing. $5. 9am-5pm. www.eqg.us.

August 3–28 Art Gone Wild: Paintings by OKC Zoo Animals at In Your Eye Studio & Gallery (3005 Paseo) features works created by the Zoo’s animals. Profits support the Zoo’s conservation projects. Opening Night on August 3 from 6-10pm. Thursday-Friday, noon-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, noon-5pm. 425-0298, www.inyoureyegallery.com.

August 4 • Saturday FREE Arcadia Lake Sweep at Spring Creek Park (7200 E 15, Edmond). Participants are invited to help clean up the park. Includes FREE t-shirt & hot dog while supplies last. Bring own gloves. 216-7471, www. arcadialakeok.com.

FREE Feeding 5000 & More at OKC Faith Church (I-40 & Portland) offers burritos to the first 5,000 attendees as well as backpacks full of school supplies for children in grades K-12, OKC Thunder’s Rumble the Bison & America’s Got Talent’s Acrosdunk. 9am-noon (or while supplies last). 948-7100, www.okcfaith.com.

Defensive Driver Safety Course at the Choctaw Library for drivers ages 16 & up to learn skills for safer driving. Certificate of completion can provide auto insurance discount. $14, $5 for school employees.

9:30am-3:30pm.

FREE Hooked on Fishing Class at Edwards Park Lake (1515 N Bryant) for ages 5-15 with parent to learn casting, knot-tying, fish identification, angler etiquette & fishing regulations. No license required during class hours. Equipment provided. 8-10am. 316-FISH, www. okc.gov/parks. Also held: 8/11 & 18.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com | August 2012

Spaghetti Eddie Live Popsicle Party at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to enjoy a FREE popsicle & rock out as Spaghetti Eddie performs live in the SMO gardens. 10:30am.

Volunteer Recruitment at the OKC Zoo’s Rosser Conservation Education Center seeks dependable individuals 18 & older to become Animal Area, Education & Horticulture volunteers. Orientation & paperwork begins at 10am. 425-0275.

Gospel Concert at Inspiration Hill (880669 S 3330, Wellston) features The Punches Family & David Allen 7pm. 356-4051.

August 4–5 Buchanan’s Vintage Flea Market in the Modern Living Building at State Fair Park features a large selection of quality antiques & collectibles. $5 adults, FREE children under 12. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. www.buchananmarkets.com.

August 5 • Sunday FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series in Norman features live performances in the park. 7:30pm. 3079320, www.pasnorman.org/programs/summerbreeze.

Also held: 8/26. See website for performance schedule and locations.

Lighthouse Triathlon (333 W Hefner) features a USAT sanctioned event including a 500yd swim, 13m bike & 5K run. $12. 7am. 751-3344, www.okclighthouse.com.

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

August 7 • Tuesday Messy Monogram Painting at the Edmond MAC & Senior Center (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond) for children ages 2-5 with parent to use their hands to create a masterpiece. Preregister. $11. 11am-noon.

359-4630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

FREE Family Night Out at Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial) features family-friendly activities & themes in the Food Court. 5:30-7:30pm. 755-6530, www. quailspringsmall.com.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store for ages 6-14 includes a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited.

5pm. 840-9993, www.Stores.Lego.com.

August 7–11 Chita Rivera: My Broadway presented by Lyric Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall features the twotime Tony Award winner. $33 & up. Tuesday-Thursday,

AUGUST

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

August 11• Saturday

August 8 • Wednesday

FREE Butterflies! Butterflies! at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial, OKC) 1-hour presentation by the Butterflies of the World Foundation. 10am. 7550676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park/index.html.

FREE Pizza & Plots Teen Book Club at the Choctaw Library for teens who can enjoy pizza, snacks & drinks while talking about books. 4:30-5:30pm.

August 9 • Thursday Open Studio Bisque: Families at the MAC (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond) for families to paint bisque pieces to be picked up at a later date. Preregister by 8/8. $20. 3-5pm. 359-4630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

Also held: 8/23.

Oklahoma City Metro Literacy Coalition Network Meeting at the United Way office (1444 NW 27) for anyone interested in volunteering to help literacy efforts.

Preregister, lunch provided. 11:20am-1:00pm. 830-2790.

August 9–12 Anastasia Workshop at the Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15) based on the legend claiming the youngest daughter of Nicholas II survived the execution of her family.

Appropriate for all ages. $10. Thursday-Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 609-1023, www. poteettheatre.com.

August 10 • Friday OKC Redhawks vs. Sacramento River Cats baseball at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up.

218-1000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 8/11-17, 27-31.

Music Time at Bouncin Craze (14901 N Lincoln, Edmond) features 15-30 minutes of sing-a-long and dancing. FREE with paid admission. 11-11:30am. 6072020, www.bouncincraze.com.

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 Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art provides live music, short films & an art activity in connection with Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art. 6-9pm.

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.org.

August 10–11 Women of Faith Conference at the Chesapeake Energy Arena celebrates with worship, Bible teaching, concerts & more. $99 & up. Friday, 7-10pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm. 888-493-2484, www.chesapeakearena.com.

S M T W T F S

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FREE Advanced Couponing at the Moore Library features Patsy Smith of ConsumerQueen.com. For adults 18 & older. 1-3pm.

Dancing for a Miracle at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation and features local celebrities taking the stage to raise money for Oklahoma children. $150. 6-10pm. 271-8430, www.okchf.org.

Metropolitan Library System www.metrolibrary.org

St. Yootz Day & Toby Mac in Concert at Frontier City (11501 NE Expressway) is an event for church groups from around the state to come together for a day of fun & music. Advanced tickets available only through UMC at 530-2199 or www.okumcministries.org. Concert gates open at 6pm. 478-2140, www.frontiercity.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Garden Collage” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) for ages 3+ to turn colorful craft materials into a lush garden. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Storytime with Mr. Steve at Barnes & Noble (540 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman) features classic books read by a very silly storyteller. 11am. 579-8800, www. barnesandnoble.com. Also held: 8/25.

5th Anniversary Dancing for a Miracle Gala at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation and features local celebrities in a dance competition. $150. 6pm. www. okchf.org.

Oklahoma Victory Dolls Roller Derby at the State Fairgrounds Centennial Building. $13 advance, $15 at door. 6-9pm. www.oklahomavictorydolls.com.

Midnight Streak at the City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) is an annual 5K run & 1-mile fun run that benefits free public visual arts exhibitions & supports arts programming during the year. $30. 9pm. 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Cha-Cha for Children fundraiser at Regional Physical Therapy (9309 E Reno, Midwest City) benefits the Children’s Center. 7–10:30pm. Tickets, $25. 732-3353, www.regionalpt.com.

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 Northwest ..........5600 NW 122nd........606-3580 Wright Library.... 2101 Exchange.........235-5035

Pioneer Library System 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 SW OKC............... 2201 SW 134th.........979-2200 Tecumseh............114 N Broadway........598-5955

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August 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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August 11–12

$7.50 indoor only, $15 both. 10am-8pm. 607-2020, www. bouncincraze.com.

FREE Lowes Build & Grow Clinic “Shrek Dragon Ride” at participating Lowe's Stores invites children to complete a wooden project with a parent/guardian.

Participants receive a FREE apron, goggles, certificate & project patch. Preregister. Saturday, 10-11am; Sunday, 2-3pm. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

My Art Box at the MAC (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond) for ages 2-5 with parent includes painting & decorating a box to store art projects. Preregister by 8/13. $15. 11am-noon & 4-5pm. 359-4630, www. edmondok.com/parks/rec.

World Series of Team Roping at the Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E, Guthrie). 9am daily. www.wstroping.com.

August 12 • Sunday Arcadia Lake Triathlon & AquaBike at Edmond Park at Lake Arcadia features a Sprint Triathlon including a 500-meter swim, 12-mile bike & 3.1-mile run & an AQUABike including a 500-meter swim & 12 mile bike.

8am. www.triokc.org.

9th Annual Parent & Child Golf Championship at KickingBird Golf Club (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) is a tournament for 2-person parent-child teams in a Scramble Tee Shot-Alternate Shot Approach-Scramble Putt format. $85 per team. 1pm. 341-5350, www. kickingbirdgolf.com.

Pooches in the Pool at City Splash (2200 S Holly, Yukon) is a swim party for the dogs. Pooches will parade around the pool with contests for Best Trick, Best Costume & more. $3 per dog. 5:30-7pm. 350-8920, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

August 14 • Tuesday Back to School Event at Bouncin Craze (14901 N Lincoln, Edmond) features indoor & outdoor inflatables.

Weekly Events FREE Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. See website for complete list & details.

FREE Art Moves weekdays (Monday-Friday) in downtown OKC (various locations). Performances, demonstrations, short films & discussions. Noon-1pm.

270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves.

Toddler Time playtime at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang). $2 or FREE with Town Center membership. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-noon. 3763411, www.cityofmustang.org.

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).

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

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.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma presents Shannon Sommers reading “Doodle Cook” by Herve Tullet then leading guests to paint their very own potluck or doodle a dinner. 10am & 2pm.

FREE Girls’ Night DIY Bedroom Overhaul at the Ralph Ellison Library invites girls of all ages to create t-shirt pillowcases. First in the DIY Bedroom Overhaul series. Preregister. 5-6:30pm.

INTEGRIS Back-to-School FREE Hearing Screenings at the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute (5911 W Memorial) offers free hearing screenings by appointment only. 5:30-7pm. 951-2277.

August 15 • Wednesday Yanni at the Civic Center Music Hall performs his greatest instrumental hits. $45 & up. 7:30pm. 297-2264, www.okciviccenter.com.

August 16–19 Cyndi The Story: A Cabaret at the Poteet Theatre (222 NW 15) features an evening of stories & song with Cyndi Steele-Harrod & friends. Benefits the Poteet Theatre Arts Education Program. Appropriate for ages 12 & up. $25. Thursday-Sunday, 8pm. 609-1023, www. poteettheatre.com.

Friday Night 5K at Regatta Park features a 5K race followed by food & fun. Preregister. $25. 919-9587, www. dgroadracing.com.

Bright Night of CSI: Museum Style at Science Museum Oklahoma. Participants will use real, hands-on CSI science to solve a mystery. One adult required per six children. Includes overnight stay in exhibit halls with museum staff, breakfast & concessions open for latenight snacking. $45 child/adult participant, $35 member participant, $20 adult non-participant. 6pm-8:30am.

FREE Heitz Movie Nitez at Marc Heitz Chevrolet (I-35 & Lindsay, Norman) features a family-friendly movie under the stars on the 3rd Friday of every month. Movie at dusk, title TBA. Playground closed during movies.

488-7971, www.facebook.com/kcoyote.1Force.

August 18 • Saturday Herpetology Art Camp with Patrick Riley at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial, OKC) allows children ages 6-16 to create drawings, masks & sculptures of the snakes & turtles living at the center. $25. 10am-5pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_ park/index.html.

Family Fun Night at KickingBird Golf Club (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) invites families to play 9 holes from special junior tees. Tee times required one week in advance. $6 green fees, tee times start at 5pm. 5-8pm.

341-5350, www.kickingbirdgolf.com.

FREE Movie Night at the Park at Little River Park (700 SW 4, Moore) screens Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. 8:45pm. www.cityofmoore.com.

& Noble (13800 N May), Wednesday & Saturday, 11am.

755-1155, www.barnesandnoble.com.

Library for children 3-7 with parent develops musical literacy. Thursdays, 7-7:30pm; Fridays, 10:30-11am.

FREE Wacky Wednesdays at the Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main, Yukon) presents a carnival, sports activities & fishing. 10am-noon. 350-8920, www. cityofyukonok.gov.

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

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library. Held every Wednesday, 6-8pm.

231-8650.

Story Time at Be Wild For Art (1006 24th Ave NW, Norman) includes story & activity. See website for details. Thursday, 11am. 307-9971, www.bewildforart. com.

FREE Lower Bricktown Live Summer Concert Series in front of the fountain just South of Mickey Mantel & Reno Thursdays through August 16. 7:309:30pm. www.lowerbricktown.com.

FREE Story Time in the Garden at the Myriad Gardens Children’s Garden for children 2-4 years with parent to enjoy a variety of nature-inspired books.

Wednesdays & Fridays through the summer, 10am.

297-3611, www.myriadgardens.org.

Way Back Wednesdays at the OKC Zoo features $1 admission, concession & ride deals. Children 2 & under FREE. Wednesdays through August.

FREE Summer Movie Nights at the Myriad Gardens invites guests to bring snacks & lawn chairs to enjoy a movie on the Great Lawn. See website for titles. Wednesdays through August, 9pm. www. myriadgardens.org.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Quail Springs Barnes

FREE Melody Hounds Music Class at the Norman

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Family Fun Day at Celebration Station (509 Westline) features unlimited rides & a pizza buffet for $15.99 per person. Thursdays, 4-9pm. 942-7888, www. celebrationstation.com.

Cocktails on the Skyline at the OKC Museum of Art. Free for members; $5 for nonmembers. Cash bar, complimentary snacks & live music. See website for details. Thursdays through October 11, 5-10:30pm.

FREE Concerts in the Park at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) features music Thursdays through August 16. 7-9pm. www.cityofyukonok.gov.

FREE Outdoor Concerts in the Park at Hafer Park Stage (1034 S Bryant, Edmond) offer live music outdoors each Thursday at 7:15pm. 359-4630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects in Martin Park. Fridays, 9:30am12:30pm during the summer months.

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

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under. 359-7989, www.ucojazzlab.com.

8 to 8 at the OKC Zoo invites guests to stay & play from sun up to sun down. The Zoo will be open from

FREE Crafts for Kids “Crawly Caterpillar” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites kids ages 3 &up use a little craftiness to create their own treeclimbing caterpillar mid crawl. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Forever. For Real. Marriage Strenghtening Workshop at the Oklahoma History Center focuses on real-life skills that married couples can use right now to strengthen relationships. Preregister, lunch provided.

9:30am-4pm. www.foreverforreal.com.

FREE Puppy Palooza at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) invites pet owners to bring furry friends for an evening of music, pet adoptions, food & booths.4-8:30pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

August 20 • Monday

gloRUN at Stars & Stripes Park at Lake Hefner benefits the Referral Center and features a 5K & 1-mile Fun Run on a course lined with tunnels of artwork & black lights. $40+ 5K, $15 Fun Run (fees increase on 8/10). Fun Run, 7:30pm; 5K 8pm. 918-406-4055, www.glorunokc.com.

Fort Reno Ghost Tours at Historic Fort Reno (7107 W Cheyenne, El Reno) features tales on the 3rd Saturday of the month through November. Includes tours of the fort & presentations by paranormal research teams.

Preregister. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children ages 5-12.

7:30pm. 262-3987, www.fortreno.org.

August 19 • Sunday National Aviation Day at Science Museum Oklahoma honors America’s great aviation history & the science of flight. 11am-6pm.

“The Power and Purpose of the Family Blessing" presented by author Bob Strand at New Covenant United Methodist Church (2700 S. Boulevard, Edmond) includes Biblical concepts to help implement new behavior patterns and make family holidays more meaningful. Pizza provided. 5pm. 562-3200, www. ncovenant.org.

8am-8pm on Saturdays through August 26.

Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum leave the Oakwood Depot at 10am, 11am, noon, 1:30pm & 2:30pm on the first & third Saturday of the month. $10 ages 15 & up, $5 ages 3-14, FREE under 3. 4248222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) each Saturday, 10:15am.

842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com.

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

FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) for beginner, intermediate, advanced & featured styles. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm. 605-2758, www. skategalaxyokc.com.

All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main). $8/week includes 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. Email dbrakefield@yahoo.com to verify schedule. 354-2516.

Live Banjo Performance at the American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan) invites guests to enjoy a live banjo performance. FREE with paid admission.

3-5pm. 604-2793, www.americanbanjomuseum.com.

Contact to confirm schedule.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art features hands-on art activities. FREE with paid admission.

Saturdays, 1-4pm.

Who?? at the MAC (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond) for children 2-5 with parent to learn about Pablo Picasso & Salvador Dali & then create art. Preregister. $8. 1011am. 359-4630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec. Also held: 8/27.

August 20–25 Just Between Friends Children Consignment Sale at the State Fairgrounds features new & gently used children’s clothing, toys & equipment. Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm. www.okc.jbfsale.com.

August 23–25 FREE 98th Annual Oklahoma County Free Fair at State Fair Park offers livestock shows, food & gardening competitions, events for kids, livestock shows & more.

713-1125, http://oces.okstate.edu/oklahoma.

August 24 • Friday Make Your Own Music at the MAC (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond) for ages 2-5 to celebrate Strange Music Day by creating & learning to play their own musical instruments. Preregister. $10. 10-11am. 3594630, www.edmondok.com/parks/rec.

History Cruises (Saturdays) & Shakespeare Cruises (Sundays) on the Oklahoma River depart Regatta Park & Exchange landings. Adults $6+, children $3+, FREE under age 6. Through August, noon & 12:45pm. 702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

FREE Open House at techJOYnt (8328 Glade) provides information about this hands-on, technology-based after-school education academy.

Sundays, 2-4pm. 345-5010, www.techjoynt.org.

The Family Classroom on Saturdays at the Myriad Botanical Gardens includes fun activities including natural materials for kids ages 7-12 , or younger with adult. Upcoming topics include Solar Cooking (8/11), Water Balloons (8/18) & Scavenger Hunt (8/25.) Fees vary, see website for cost information.

FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at the Great Lawn Stage in the Myriad Gardens. Sundays through August, 7:30-9pm. www.artscouncilokc.com.

Luau Cruise departs from Regatta Park Landing & features a night of dancing, Hawaiian-themed cocktails & appetizers. Must be 21 & older.

Preregister. $29. Saturdays in August, 7:30-9pm.

702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com.

FREE Sunset Cinemas at Charles J Johnson Park (7209 SE 29, Midwest City) features outdoor movies shown Sunday nights through August 12.

Movies begin 20 minutes after sundown. www. visitmidwestcity.com.

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FREE Chasing James performs at Full Circle Books (1900 NW Expressway). 7:30pm. 842-2900, www. fullcirclebooks.com.

FREE Art After Hours: Peter Schmidt & Brian Eno, Oblique Strategies at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a 45-minute discussion featuring work by contemporary visual artists who incorporate text in their imagery. 6-7pm.

August 24–25 Annual OCA Range Round-Up at the State Fair Arena features six events including saddle bronc riding, wild cow milking, team branding & wild horse race. 7:30pm.

235-4391, www.okcattlemen.org.

August 24–26 The Oklahoma Black Museum’s First Annual Performing Arts Festival includes art, food vendors and entertainment. Memorial Park (36th & Classen) Friday 2-10pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-9pm. Details, 213-8077.

August 25 • Saturday 5K to Monet at the Fine Arts Institute (27 E Edwards, Edmond) features a timed 5K & 1-mile Family Fun run/ walk. $18 Family Fun Run, $30 5K. 8am. 413-5439, www.edmondfinearts.com.

Moore War Run at Moore High School (300 N Eastern) is a 5K sanctioned race beginning at Moore High School & ending at Old Town Moore Downtown.

Preregister. $25. 7:30am. www.moorewarrun.com.

Mother Nature’s Rx at Martin Park Nature Center is a origami program in the Martin Park woods. $2 per person. Preregister. 10am. 755-0676, ww.okc.gov/ parks/martin_park.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Fun-to-Make Bookmark” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites kids 3+ to create a personalized bookmark. Ages 3 & up. 11am3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Spirit Sprint 5K Run & Fun Walk at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) benefits special needs recreation in Yukon. 8-10am. 350-8937, www. cityofyukonok.gov.

4th Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at Arcadia Lake in Edmond for participants to build a cardboard boat to race on the lake. Categories for youth, teens and adults.

Applications due on 8/17. Boat registration, $35 & up; Spectators, $5 per vehicle. 9am-noon. 216-7635, www. edmondok.com.

FREE Hands on Learning: Klutz at the Quail Springs Barnes & Noble (13800 N May) for children of all ages.

11:30am. 755-1155, www.barnesandnoble.com.

OU Stream Ecology at Science Museum Oklahoma for guests to learn the science that makes up Oklahoma's streams & get hands on with the OU Stream Ecology Club. 11:30am-2pm.

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Symphony by the Sea at the Oklahoma Aquarium features members of the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra in an evening of dining tank side followed by a concert in the Aquarium Great Hall. Proceeds benefit the educational programs of both organizations. 6:30pm.

August 25–26 FREE Lowes Build & Grow Clinic “Shrek Onion Carriage” at participating Lowe’s Stores for children to complete a wooden project with a guardian.

FREE apron, goggles, certificate & project patch.

Preregister. Saturday, 10-11am; Sunday, 2-3pm. www. lowesbuildandgrow.com.

FREE Remote Area Medical/Bricktown Rotary Health Care Weekend at the State Fairgrounds Expo Hall provides dental care, eye exams, women’s health care & general medical referrals for the general public.

8am-8pm. www.ramok.org.

FREE Dental & Vision Screenings provided by Remote Area Medical Oklahoma in the Oklahoma Expo Hall at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. Patients will be served on a first-come, first-served basis with the first patient served at 6 a.m. each day. Volunteer opportunities available. www.ramok.org.

August 26 • Sunday FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art provides free museum admission and hands-on art activities. 1-4pm. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

August 28 • Tuesday FREE Substance Abuse and Mental Health Statewide Conference at Crossings Community Church (2208 W. Hefner) for individuals and groups working with faith-based substance abuse and mental health prevention and service providers.9am-3:30pm.

Preregister. www.faithlinksok.org

August 29 • Wednesday FREE ABC Animal Jamboree at the Belle Isle Library for Pre-K kids to enjoy stories that emphasize the letters of the alphabet followed by playtime with letter recognition activities. Preregister. 10-10:45am.

Atom Day at Science Museum Oklahoma for guests to come learn the science that makes up a single Atom & learn just how complex they are. 11:30am-2pm.

August 30 • Thursday Hanging Clay Birdfeeder at the MAC (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond) for ages 2-5 with parent to learn basic techniques to build a hanging birdfeeder.

Preregister. $12. 11am-noon. 359-4630, www. edmondok.com/parks/rec.

Ladies Night Out at Be Wild for Art (1006 24th Ave NW, Norman) invites ladies to bring their favorite beverages & snacks while enjoying an evening of painting. $4 discounted studio fee. 6-9pm. 307-9971, www.bewildforart.com.

August 30–September 1 Monkey Business Children’s Consignment Sale at the Shawnee Expo Center (1700 W Independence, Shawnee) features new & gently used items relating to children & teens. Many items half-price on Saturday.

Thursday-Friday, 9am-7pm; Saturday, 9am-2pm. 7409357, http://shawnee.monkeybusinessok.com.

August 31–September 2 Oktoberfest at Choctaw’s Creek Park features homemade German food, genuine German beers & wine & continuous live entertainment for all ages, plus German dance groups, crafts & activities for children.

390-8647, www.choctawfestival.org. Also held 9/5-8.

September 2012

hit, fielded, slid & caught with passion. TuesdayFriday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm. 340-0078, www. edmondhistory.org.

September 3 • Monday FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Scout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium invites scouts to take a trip through the Arctic Zone & learn how animals survive in the harsh conditions. Scouts can earn the Oklahoma Aquarium’s own Junior Biologist Badge and enjoy discounted admission rate. 10am-6pm.

Visit metrofamilymagazine. com/calendar for more family-friendly events!

September 1 • Saturday OSU Football vs. Savannah State at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. 6pm. www.okstate.com. Other home games this month: 9/15 vs. Louisiana-Lafayette & 9/29 vs. Texas.

27th Annual Brookhaven 5K Run at Brookhaven Village (36th Ave NW & Robinson, Norman) includes 5K, 1-mile Fun Run & children’s races. $22 in advance, $25 race day, FREE children’s races ages 11 & under. 8am. www.brookhavenrun.com.

FREE Loose Caboose Festival on Main Street in Purcell is a family event featuring antiques, collectibles, crafts, art, children’s activities, wine tasting, food & live entertainment throughout the day. 9am-4pm. www. loosecaboosefestival.com.

OKC Redhawks vs. Round Rock Express baseball at the Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 9/2-3.

September 1–2 Buchanan’s Vintage Flea Market in the Modern Living Building at State Fair Park features a large selection of quality antiques & collectibles. $5 adults, FREE children under 12. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. www.buchananmarkets.com.

September 1–3 FREE Arts Festival Oklahoma at Oklahoma City Community College is a is a three day event highlighting a wide variety of fine art, crafts, children’s activities, culinary specialties & live entertainment. $5 parking.

Saturday-Sunday, 10am-9pm; Monday, 10am-5pm. 6827576, www.occc.edu/afo.

September 1–October 20 FREE Line Drives & Lipstick: the Untold Story of Women’s Baseball at the Edmond Historical Society (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) celebrates the legends & landmarks of the dedicated women athletes who

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Ongoing Events Through August 5 Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in an annual exhibition featuring more than 300 works by the finest contemporary Western artists.

Through August 10 Summer Movie Fun at Harkins Bricktown Cinemas 16 (150 E Reno) kid-friendly movies held Monday–Friday, 9:45am. $5 admission to one movie per week for the series. 231-4747, www.harkinstheatres.com/smf.

Through August 17 Citizens Caring for Children Back to School Event at CCC Resource Center (730 W Wilshire Creek) matches children in foster care with a personal shopper to help them find new clothes, backpack and school supplies for the first day of school. Uniforms also available. Must provide valid driver's license & placement paperwork indicating DHS custody. Monday-Friday, 9am-noon & 1-5pm. 753-4099, www.citizenscaringforchildren.org.

Through August 25 Soaring Voices: Recent Ceramics by Women from Japan at City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) features ceramic works by 25 women artists. 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Through August 26 Morning Zoo Rise at the OKC Zoo features an early opening at 8am daily to allow guests to enjoy the Zoo during the cooler morning hours. 8am-5pm.

Through August 31 FREE Admission at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) through August. 8785300, www.mgmoa.org.

OBI & OKC Zoo Summer Partnership offers FREE zoo tickets, t-shirt & health screenings when you donate blood at any OBI drive. www.obi.org.

Through September 2 FREE Of Our Land Exhibit at the Oklahoma State Capitol North Gallery is Cody Lee Dopps’ photography of old houses & buildings set against vast landscapes.

Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-4pm.

521-2931, www.arts.ok.gov.

Through September 3 Blue Star Museums provides FREE admission to participating museums. Available to military ID holder & five immediate family members. See website for details & full list of participating locations. www.arts.gov/ bluestarmuseums.

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Through September 9 Fusion: A New Century of Glass at the OKC Museum of Art features glass sculptures & installations from the twenty-first century that embrace the diversity & depth of the human experience.

Vernet to Villon: Nineteenth Century French Master Drawings from the National Gallery of Art at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art features drawings & watercolors representing each of the major 19th-century movements.

Red Earth Invitational Sculpture Exhibit at the Myriad Botanical Gardens features Native American sculptures installed in the Meinders Garden & the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory's South entrance visitors' center.

Through September 16 The Cult of Personality: Andy Warhol, Harold Stevenson & Portraiture at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art features portraits by Andy Warhol with a special focus on the Polaroids he used as preparatory studies for the portraits he produced.

Chinasaurs: Dinosaur Discoveries from China at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features a dozen rare cast dinosaurs as well as fossil dinosaur eggs, nests & bones.

Through October 7 The Art of Golf at the OKC Museum of Art explores the history of the sport through 90 works from artists such as Rembrandt, Charles Lees, Norman Rockwell & Andy Warhol.

Through October 27 Generation Next: Chapter Two at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum showcases paintings & ceramics by former Oklahoma City Thunder player Desmond Mason.

Through December 9 Oklahoma & Infamy at the Oklahoma History Center marks the 70th anniversary of the United States’ entrance into WWII with artifacts, uniforms, interviews with veterans & personal letters. FREE admission to veterans & active duty military.

Through 2012 Oklahoma at the Movies at the Oklahoma History Center showcases the creativity & innovation of Oklahomans & their legacy of creating, starring in & watching motion pictures.

Through August 2013 Pablo Picasso’s Woman in the Studio at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art features works by Picasso from the museum’s permanent collection and on loan from the St. Louis Art Museum.

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Raegan L., age 2 and Madisen L., age 4 of Edmond.

Jack L., age 9, and Molly L, age 5, of OKC.

Hudson M., age 5, of Edmond on his first day of Pre-K.

Back-to-School Fun! To celebrate the beginning of a new school year, we asked our readers to submit their favorite first day of school photos.

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

Emma L., age 7, of Edmond on her first day of 1st Grade.

Cale R., age 5, of Yukon on his first day of Pre-K.

Lauren L., age 4, of Edmond on her first day of Pre-K.

For September, we want to see photos of your child's best funny faces and silly expressions. Photos are due by Saturday, August 18.

Guidelines and a photo submission form can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

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