35280

APRIL 2010

Attention, Campers!

Use our HUGE

Summer Camps & Activities Guide to

plan the best summer ever

Shiloh Summer Camp:

Making a difference for kids who need it the most

Don't miss Summer Adventure EXPO on April 18th details page 42

T h e E s sent i a l Reso u rce fo r Cent ra l O k l a h o m a F a m i l i es

w w. M et roFa m i l yM agaz i n e.comw w w. M et roFa m i l yM agaz i n e.comw w

the sweet side of chill.

Frappés. Spend your precious me time chillin’ with a mocha or caramel blended ice drink with a hint of coffee topped with whipped cream and drizzle. ©2010 McDonald’s

Stay summer strong at our camp. Our To The Max Summer summer camp Camp will keep kids Summer Strong in mind and body. It’s the max for excitement, max facts and max fun! Each week-long session deals with the biggests, bests and mosts the summer can offer.

Fabulously fun field trips Sensational service projects Astronomically interesting activities Full and part-time programs available.

Space is limited – Call now!

877.577.0356 www.lapetite.com/summercamp

e We TakCAMP R E M M SU he MAX! to t

We make kids summerstrong.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

3

Imagine... reaching heights no one ever expected.

The Top Five Reasons

to visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com this month: Find out all the details about our 5 upcoming Summer Adventure

EXPO (April 18th) including a list of entertainment on the stage.

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/oklahomasummer-adventure-expo

our blogs including topics such 4 Read as local dad issues, frugal mom tips, perspectives from a Christian mom, nonprofit spotlight and much more.

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/blogs

up for E-Update, our popular 3 Sign newsletter sent to your in box on Thursdays announcing all the fun family events for the weekend.

Through E-Update, you’ll also learn about fun contests and events such as Mom’s Nite Out on Thursday, May 6th.

Sign up today! MetroFamilyMagazine. com/subscribe-to-e-update Check our contest page often and 2 enter to win fun prizes. (Another tip?

Follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook for more chances to win!)

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our magazine as a digital 1 Read edition (and check out previous issues in the archives).

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©2010 Kumon North America, Inc.

Visit the award-winning MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Great things are possible when your child has the skills to succeed on her own.

Kumon Math and Reading uses a proven method to nurture achievement and help your child perform beyond expectations.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

cirqueproductions.com

April 2010

We’re Thinking Summer.

30

2010 Summer Camp Guide

49 Calendar

Events and activities

6

Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

46 Dear Teacher

Advice from education experts

8

Exploring Oklahoma

Discover the fun of digging for buried treasure

20 Family Finances

Debt settlement dangers

10 Family Shorts Let our BIG Summer Camps and Activities Guide help you plan the best summer ever. From the arts, sports, science, exploring nature, learning something new and shoring up academic skills, you'll find a wide variety of options here.

Community news and parenting resources

26 Let’s Eat: Recipes Tasty uses for hard boiled eggs

14 News You Can Use: KFOR

Why swapping is the new shopping

44 Oklahoma Reads Book reviews

58 Out & About

Photos from our readers

48 The Alert Parent

Tips for summer camps

22

Camp Shiloh: Bringing the joy of outdoor adventure to children who need it the most.

28

Discover 52 easy ways to make healthy changes for yourself and your family.

24 Your Healthy Family Childhood obesity (part 2): making healthy restaurant choices

On our cover and above: Spencer Moore, age 8, son of Tiffany Ray, Enid, OK. Cover Photography by Dgalleries ❘ www.dgalleries.net

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

5

Dear MetroFamily, Last year, the commercial for our Parent University event featured the line “Being a parent is hard.” That’s quite an understatement!

Parenting is hard. There are no guidebooks, manuals or tip sheets that can fill you in on the information you need to be a good parent. And on top of that—there is no one definition of what it means to be a good parent. It’s a matter of taking the parent and the child and trying to do the best you can for the both of you. To make matters worse, if you have one child, there is no guarantee that subsequent children will be similar.

The game changes for each person.

My kids, Spencer and Lauren, enjoying the early March sunshine in downtown OKC.

Parenting is a dynamic process, a work in progress. You can be assured that the only constant is...well, that there is no constant. You have to be prepared to turn on a dime, reevaluate your approach and change course accordingly.

What’s my point? We are all in this together. March was a tough month for my little family, and I had to change course several times to get us back on the track to happiness, which is my ultimate goal. It has been a challenge, but many lessons were learned and I’m thankful for that.

My friends were there for me, and I hope that along with your own family and friends, we at MetroFamily Magazine can be a part of your life as you try to parent your children in the best way you know how. We want to be here for you!

Keep fighting the good fight, parents!

Cheers,

• If this issue about summer camps and activities makes you hungry for more info about summer, make plans to attend our annual Summer Adventure EXPO on April 18th at Sheraton Hotel Downtown. At this "cannot miss" event you'll find over 35 vendors, fun entertainment, hands-on activities, and the opportunity to meet and learn more about camps, activities and Oklahoma destinations. Find all the details at MetroFamilyMagazine. com/oklahoma-summer-adventure-expo. We sincerely thank the Oklahoma Department of Tourism for their sponsorship of this premiere event.

• The annual Parent University event featuring author Dawn Billings was held March 30th. Our sincere appreciation go to Providence Hall Classical Christian School, KFOR NewsChannel 4, Liberty Mutual, Speechworks, Inc., Science Museum Oklahoma and Little Caesar's Pizza for their tremendous support of this program and metro parents.

• Many readers have been asking about our plans for Exploring Oklahoma with Children (EOWC) and its Kids Pass (coupons to attractions across the state). We're happy to announce that the 2010 Kids Pass will be available on our website on about May 1st and the new EOWC will be printed in early June. Our theme this year is exploring nature in Oklahoma.

Find more at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma.

• Another popular feature coming soon to our website is a list of Vacation Bible School programs around the OKC area. Please submit information about your program here: MetroFamilyMagazine.com/vbs.

• You know your kids are the cutest in the metro. Share your best snapshots of them at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/submit-your-photos and they could be featured on our new "Out and About" page in the back of the magazine (see our first edition on page 58).

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Info And Questions: 405-340-1404 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 Mitzi Massie Mitzi@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Donna Stewart Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Marketing Specialist Whitney Fleming Assistant Editor & Calendar Brooke Barnett Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Editorial Assistants Elizabeth Harvey & Sherrie Horton Contributing Writers Michelle Ann Anderson Mari Farthing Brooke Barnett Shannon Fields Ben Davis Peggy Gisler Julie Dill Patty James Marge Eberts Michele Miller Eve Eifler Karen Mitchell Allyn Evans Sue Lynn Sasser 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. 306 S. Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034 Fax: 405-340-1490 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2010, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 13, Number 4

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Exploring Oklahoma Finding Treasures at the Great Salt Plains to find unique hourglass-shaped selenite crystals. These crystals even attract rock enthusiasts from around the world. Closed for several years to clean the area of World War II training artifacts, the area is once again open for public digging (from April 1-October 15, dawn to dusk). The treasure: large, intact, selenite crystals with a sand/ clay hourglass embedded within the clear, gypsum crystal.

S

pring is in the air, and after one of the coldest winters Oklahoma has experienced in years, we’re all ready to get outside. So, after the kids have found their Easter eggs, why not continue treasure hunting in one of the most unique places in the world—right here in our own state?

The Great Salt Plains in northwestern Oklahoma is the only place in the world

Seeking a Great r?

Babysitte

My sister and I took our kids there last fall.

What a treat! As my son said, “I don’t feel like we’re even in Oklahoma.” My nephew agreed that we appeared to be on the moon— the miles of flat, white ground certainly gave you that sense. While the crystals were certainly the highlight of our trip, they weren’t the only treasure we discovered.

The Great Salt Plains, part of the Great Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, is home to an abundance of natural wonders. We started on the eastern side of the refuge. Our first stop: the refuge headquarters. I recommend stopping there before continuing your visit. The headquarters contains historical and educational exhibits of the area which

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IN HIS WORD - WALK IN HIS WAY 3 Year-Olds Thru 5th Grade Small class sizes • degreed teachers • affordable Christian Education • all day kindergarten • before and after school care • individualized attention

Holy Trinity Christian School 308 N.W. 164th St • Edmond Contact Debbie Swanson at 844-4000 Holy Trinity Christian School admits students without regard to race, religion or ethnic origin.

8

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Natalie Zotto and her mother Anita of Edmond enjoy a walk on the Eagle Roost Nature Trail at Great Salt Plains.

helped us appreciate what we might see.

There we were greeted by a staff member who provided us area maps and directed us to the Eagle Roost Nature Trail; a beautiful, wetlands hike.

Eagle Roost Nature Trail A short distance away from the refuge headquarters, the Eagle Roost Nature Trail, is another must-see for those who enjoy the outdoors. The walk takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how many times you stop to appreciate the surroundings in this wooded wetland. Bring your camera! This is a great spot for wildlife photos, including shots of the sandhill cranes and other water fowl that nest in the area.

Upon leaving Eagle Roost, we headed north on the Harold F. Miller Auto Tour Route which meanders through a portion of the refuge. As we headed west on Highway 11, we noted areas to pull off for additional viewing including an observation tower and Sandpiper Trail.

Turning south on Highway 64, we entered the town of Cherokee, a perfect spot to grab fuel for yourself or your car. The next stop is the entrance to the Great Salt Plains for selenite crystal digging.

Find more Oklahoma adventures

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ exploring-oklahoma

Natalie Zotto, age 15 of Edmond at Great Salt Plains scenic lookout.

The Dig We found that we only came partially prepared for our crystal dig, with only small garden shovels and gloves in our packs. Other recommended items for digging are buckets and larger shovels.

Some of the more seasoned diggers at the site had makeshift screens to sift through the mud and water for crystals. Also, bring towels to wipe yourselves free of the salt and sand that will inevitably make its way into your car.

Eating and Lodging Info

finding a place to stop. If planning an overnight stay, the Great Plains State Park contains several modern, well-furnished, lake-view cabins. Camping sites are also available. The nearby town of Cherokee also provides motel accommodations and restaurants.

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

Natalie begins her dig for crystals at the Great Salt Plains.

We recommend packing a cooler with snacks, drinks and a picnic before leaving home as you can drive quite a ways before

Crystal Digging Tips • The white plains make it easy to get sunburned, so be sure to wear sunscreen and sunglasses.

• Bring water and a change of clothes—digging is messy!

• Bring a shovel—you’ll need to dig a hole about two feet deep by two feet wide to get to the crystals.

• Drive carefully; shorebirds, which nest on the flats, may not be easily seen.

• When you leave, wash your car to remove the accumulated salt.

The hour-glass shaped crystals dug up at the Great Salt Plains.

• No permit is required for crystal digging and visitors may remove up to 10 pounds of crystal plus one large cluster (but it is illegal to sell them).

More information on the area is available at 580-626-4794 or fws.gov/southwest/refuges/oklahoma/saltplains.

State park cabins may be reserved by calling 580-626-4731.

2 awesome +party themes 1 great location= an unforgettable birthday choice for your child!!

Catch-A-Glimpse Retreat to reserve your next party - Call

11400 S. County Line Road 2.3 miles north of Waterloo Rd.

433-2092

www.catch-a-glimpse.com April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

9

Ready, Set, Camp!

By Michele Miller

Are you planning to send your child to summer camp this year? Camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to enjoy the outdoors, build new skills and confidences and establish new friendships.

But, how do you choose? Just as no two children are alike, camps and activities vary widely, so be sure to ask the following questions when looking for your ideal venue this summer: • What training does their staff receive on safety, supervision, counseling, problem solving and other issues unique to working with young children?

• Are campers in a group with a counselor all day, or are they free to go between activities unsupervised?

• If transportation is offered, where and when is pick-up and drop-off? How much time will be spent in-transit, and is the bus supervised?

• If before- and after-care is available, who provides care and what activities are offered?

• Is lunch provided or do campers bring their own? Is there refrigeration for lunches brought from home?

• Is swimming offered? If so, are lessons available?

• Is the price all-inclusive or are there additional charges for extra activities and services (such as transportation, special activities, swimming lessons, food services, horseback riding, group pictures, T-shirts, extended care or field trips)?

Question of the Month & Contest We're looking for reader feedback about the question "What is the best relationship advice you've been given?"

To answer this question, go to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ FS-Giveaway, complete the entry form and you'll not only share your ideas with other readers, you'll be eligible to win a prize package valued over $350. Contest entry deadline is Thursday, April 22.* Your comments may also be included in the May issue of MetroFamily.

A full description of giveaway items is listed at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ FS-Giveaway. * Winner agrees to pick up items from a NW OKC area.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Campers ride the ziplines at Shiloh Summer Camp in Oklahoma City.

•

Is an open house offered before camp begins so you can meet the counselors and staff? Are parents allowed to drop by for visits or is there a parent visitation day?

• Is there a plan in place and medical resources available if a child becomes ill while at camp? Do they have a severe weather plan in case of storms?

• What is the policy on technology? Are campers allowed to bring cell phones or iPods, or does the camp recommend leaving technology devices at home?

When you are comfortable with the answers to these questions (and any others you might have), you’ll know that you found the right camp for your child.

Happy Camping!

To Camp or Not to Camp?

In Our March Question of the Month, we asked if you were planning to send your children to camp this summer—and we received a great response from our readers. The majority (almost half) of you did not have plans 26% for camp. For some readers, this was due to the age of your children (Laura L. from Piedmont said: “We are having a baby this summer, so no camps yet!”) for other readers, it was a financial decision (Candice C. of OKC said “I 15% have five kids and am unable to afford [it].”).

The 12 percent of readers in the “Other” category had either not decided on camps yet or made other plans. Tara W. of Edmond plans a tour of the state. “We want our daughter to know what is so special about Oklahoma by learning all there is to see.”

3%

45%

12%

No Camps Other Day & Overnight Day Overnight

44% of the respondents plan to send their kids to day and/or overnight camps. Kristi M. of OKC will send her children to both day and overnight camps. Said Kristi, “I believe strongly in allowing our children to get out and do things away from home, spend the night, see what is out there.” Olivia J., also of OKC, agrees. “I feel that my children need to get away to both day and overnight camps to make friends, build friendships, boost their confidence and self esteem and also hope it helps them to lose the shyness and become more social.”

Jennifer S. of Norman also plans to get her children involved in summer camps.

“We like to try a variety of day camps.”

No matter what your plans for the summer, be sure to check out our camp listing on pages 32-41 for great summer fun ideas!

See all of our reader responses online, metrofamilymagazine.com/april-2010.

Holistic Moms Network

Character Corner: Attentiveness

When Paige Cornelius of Purcell decided to start a local chapter of the Holistic Moms Network (HMN) in central Oklahoma, it was to further her efforts to raise her two children in the most healthy and green way possible.

The HMN is a national non-profit organization connecting parents who are interested in holistic health and green living with other parents who are working to build a healthier and more sustainable future. HMN encourages moms to trust their instincts, parent from the heart, use their innate sense of what is best for their children and live in balance with the Earth. Cornelius partnered with fellow green mom Shannon Key of Norman to start the chapter in early March. “It makes me feel good to know that every day I am doing my part to keep my family and the planet healthy,“ Cornelius said.

“Our new chapter is a community where other parents who share these ideals can come to learn, share ideas, and be supported for the choices they make.”

The Central Oklahoma HMN chapter will meet on Monday, April 19 to discuss “Organic Gardening in Small Spaces,” 6:30pm at the Moore Public Library. The May meeting topic will focus on eating local and whole foods; future meeting topics will include attachment parenting, alternative education, childbirth, green cleaning, and natural beauty products.

“I think it's very important for people to realize that whether you are just beginning your journey into holistic living or you’ve been living holistically your whole life, you are welcome in the Holistic Moms Network,” Cornelius added. “We all share a common desire to live a better life for our families and the planet.”

For more information, visit centralok.holisticmoms.org or email hmncentralok@yahoo.com.

Being attentive means that you give 100 percent of your attention to the task at hand. An attentive person really listens when interacting with others; being attentive means that you show the people you interact with that you value them.

To promote attentiveness in your home: •

A good listener is not only popular everywhere, but after a while he knows something. ~ Wilson Mizner

Listen to opinions and ideas to find the value in them, not the fault.

• Encourage the varied interests of family members by expressing genuine interest.

• Spend one-on-one time together to learn what each family member is passionate about.

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

I will: ... look at people when they speak to me. ... ask questions if I don’t understand. ... sit or stand up straight. ... not draw attention to myself. ... keep my eyes, ears, hands, feet and mouth from distractions.

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources. 405-815-0001, CharacterFirst.com.

"Unplug" Your Family

According to the Center for Screen Time Awareness in Washington, D.C., the average American watches four hours of television each day and spends another four plus hours with computers, video games or iPods. Screen time cuts into family time, is the leading cause of obesity in children and adults, and leads to a more sedentary, solitary and unhealthy lifestyle.

April 19-25 is National TV Turn-Off Week, designed to reduce screen time, provide opportunities to connect with our families, engage in our communities, and become more physically and mentally active. Here are some quick, easy and fun things you can do, in and out of the house: •

•

Read a story together. Involve family members in a literary adventure as you take turns reading from a book, or make up your own story as you go.

Share your favorite memory or create a family scrapbook. You might be surprised what other family members recall and cherish while sharing memories or looking at photos.

• • •

• • • • •

Bake a meal together. Get the family in the kitchen for a combined effort, or ask each family member to create part of the meal.

Play board games, cards or charades.

A fun, easy and inexpensive way to enjoy family time and camaraderie.

Rearrange or redecorate a room. A perfect opportunity to tackle home improvements and create a new space to enjoy together.

Clean out a closet and donate extra stuff. Work together to reduce clutter, and repurpose your unwanted items.

Go for a family walk, ride bikes or roller blade. Explore your neighborhood and improve your fitness at the same time.

Plant seeds in paper cups. A fun way to start a garden and help children learn about plants.

Go bowling or play miniature golf. Plan a fun night out to incorporate whatever activity your family enjoys.

Have other ideas for "unplugged" time? Share with other readers here: MetroFamilyMagazine.com/unplugged.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Dive into Swimming!

2010 Census: Beware of Scams

By Sue Lynn Sasser

By Julie Dill

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued a warning about the 2010 Census process.

While encouraging citizens to be cooperative and involved, the BBB is also cautioning about potential fraud or identity theft scams.

Here are several tips to avoid becoming a victim.

Ahhhh… the sweet smell of chlorine and sunblock. Summer is right around the corner! It’s time to start thinking about fun in the sun and preparing your little one for some safe summertime splashing.

When it comes to swimming lessons, there are many public and private lesson options. In choosing, first decide what your main objective is for your child.

Do you want to simply expose him to being in the water while using a flotation device? Or would you like him to learn water safety skills along with the breast stroke? Ask questions of the options and above all, make sure your swim school understands child development and that their philosophies about introducing kids to water match yours.

Here are some sample questions to ask: • Are swim instructors CPR trained?

• What is the instructor/student ratio?

• Do students typically sit on the edge of the pool waiting for a turn?

• What specific skills will be taught?

• For outdoor classes, will make-up lessons be available for classes cancelled due to weather?

• Will parents be allowed to view the entire lesson?

Many different facilities (such as the YMCA, Oklahoma City Community College, local high schools and parks departments) offer swimming lessons, each with a different class structure.

A good place to begin your search is with your local Parks and Recreation Department. Contact information:

• Official census workers will have the following items with them: a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and badge before answering any questions.

• Avoid inviting anyone you do not know into your home. Official census workers do not need to come inside.

• Official census workers will not ask for your social security number, your credit card numbers or your bank account information. If anyone claiming to be a census worker asks for this information, refuse to answer and call the police immediately.

• The primary responsibility of official census workers is to verify your name and address, not to gather additional personal information. Regardless of what questions they ask, you are only required to provide the number of people who live at your address.

• While census workers may ask about your income, you are not required to disclose this information.

• Beware of emails claiming to be from the Census Bureau. The Bureau does not solicit information online. Such emails are scammers phishing for your personal information.

Do not click on a link or open any attachments in email that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.

• Mailings from the Census Bureau will not ask for any of the above information. Such letters or forms should be tossed.

Anyone wishing to report Census Bureau fraud can call 866-861-2010. For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit bbb.org.

Digital Sesame Street Titles Your plugged-in kid can have fun with old-school titles through Moving Picture Books’ Sesame Street digital books. Six titles, each with bonus educational material, are available for download to computers and mobile devices.

Each digital book is 8-10 minutes in length and closes with interactive questions and activities for viewers that pertain to the story. Available for $1.99 each, titles include Elmo Loves You, Rise And Shine, The ABCs of Cookies, Grover’s 10 Terrific Ways To Help Our Wonderful World, What Makes You Giggle? and Elmo Visits the Dentist. “We are always looking for new and relevant ways to extend the learning and fun of Sesame Street, and these Moving Picture Books provide a new media platform for parents and children to enjoy reading together,” said Sesame Workshop’s Jennifer A. Perry, Assistant Vice President & Editorial Director, Worldwide Publishing.

Visit movingpicturebooks.com for details.

• Edmond: 405-359-4630, edmondok.com/parks • Midwest City: 405-739-1293, midwestcityok.org/parks-andrecreation • Moore: 405-793-5000, cityofmoore.com • Norman: 405-321-1600, ci.norman.ok.us/parks • OKC: 405 297-3882, okc.gov/Parks 12

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Screen shot of Elmo Goes to the Dentist, a digital book now available for download.

Problem-Solving 30,000 Affected, 5 Ways to Help The Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ Child Protective Services division Products responded to more than 30,000 reports of child abuse and neglect in fiscal year 2009, many When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know!

Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:

Gardening? Yes. Dirty hands? No thanks.

Solution:

Mud Gloves ($5.99) are durable, cute and machine washable. Several styles and sizes available to protect hands large and small from garden messes. (mudgloves.com)

Problem:

The party is so busy; it’s hard to manage recycling!

Solution:

Flings ($15.99/4), portable, popup trash and recycing bins make it easy to recycle at parties and picnics. Sturdy, reusable and biodegradable. (flingsbins.com)

Problem:

Your children are not tuning in when you talk eco-friendly.

Solution:

eeBoo’s Respect the Earth flashcards ($11.95) present an illustrated problem and ecofriendly solution perfect for the smallest budding eco-warrior. (eeboo.com)

Problem:

April showers bring May flowers ... and bored kids!

Solution:

Printoons ($7.95 and up) activity and story book sets allow kids to create fun projects using brightly colored inkpads to make thumbprint characters. (eeboo.com)

Problem:

You want to get your kids up and moving but those pesky rainy days strike again.

Solution:

Walk it Out! ($29.99) for the Wii makes walking a blast, with fun, high-energy songs to make it more fun. Compatible with balance board and DanceDance Revolution mat. (konami.com)

of which included allegations of serious or immediate threats to a child’s safety.

“All children in Oklahoma deserve a healthy, happy and safe childhood and there are ways for all of us to help,” said Sherie Trice, Oklahoma State Department of Health communitybased child abuse prevention grant coordinator.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to support children and families. “This April, we urge everyone to take a turn to make a difference for the kids in your neighborhood,” said Trice. In honor of this month of awareness, Prevent Child Abuse America offers five ways that you can lend a hand to help reduce the stress that often leads to abuse and neglect.

1. Be a friend to a parent you know. Ask how their children are doing. Provide reassurance and support. If a parent seems to be struggling, offer to baby-sit or help.

2. Be a friend to a child you know. Remember their names. Smile when you talk with them.

Ask them questions and show you care. Be mindful of changes in behavior or attitude.

3. Talk to your neighbors about looking out for one another’s children. Encourage a supportive spirit among parents in your apartment building or on your block. Be involved with the families you interact with regularly.

4. Give your used clothing, furniture and toys for use by another family. This can help relieve the stress of financial burdens that parents sometimes take out on their kids.

5. Volunteer your time and money for programs in your community that support abuse prevention. For information about volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-CHILDREN.

Most importantly, always report suspected abuse or neglect. If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local police department or Oklahoma Child Protective Services at 405-521-2283. For more ways to help and tips on recognizing abuse, visit preventchildabuse.org.

Running Clubs for Kids

A record 1,642 runners participated in Using the theme “Run Like You’re this year's Creek Classic fundraiser held Avoiding the Cooties,” elementary school March 6. Events included a 10K, 5K and students in Deer Creek Public Schools are one mile fun run. “One of the greatest getting active and learning about healthy things about this year’s race was having the lifestyles through four new running clubs. running club students involved,” said Dana Established by Physical Education teacher Campbell-Sternlof, 2010 Creek Classic Keri McAlvain, these running clubs are Race Director. “Our offered for students in mission was to have 3rd-5th grade and focus a fun, safe, familyon stretching, pacing, friendly event and nutrition, stamina and they helped create learning to achieve that environment.” goals. McAlvain says her primary goal is to In addition to teach her students the improving their concept of “lifetime Kids start this year's Creek Classic Run, a health, the students fitness,” and ways to fundraiser for Deer Creek Public Schools. are also helping to incorporate running raise money for the into their routine. “I Deer Creek School want them to know this is a sport they can District through their participation in do for a lifetime,” she said. the Creek Classic. All proceeds from the run are distributed to the six schools in Currently, more than 200 students are district, providing necessary funding for participating in the program at Rose Union, SMART Boards, technology equipment, Prairie Vale, Grove Valley and Deer Creek and resource materials for classrooms and Elementary Schools. The students meet media centers. for an hour after school to learn about the benefits of being physically fit and how to Next year's Creek Classic Run will be held set and achieve fitness goals. All running on Saturday, March 5, 2011 and runners of club student members were also registered all ages and experience are welcome. For to participate in the 14th Annual Creek more information, visit deercreekclassic.com.

Classic Run as part of their registration fee.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

13

News You Can Use: KFOR No-Cost Shopping Fun: Clothes Swapping

R

ecently NewsChannel 4’s Lance West reported on a great way to help stretch your family dollar, be environmentally friendly, and get new clothes all at the same time. As you prepare to exchange your winter wardrobe for a spring one, consider swapping instead of shopping.

Recycling Can Be Trendy For single mother LaDawna Haugen, it was all about the bottom dollar. Based on an idea that she read about in a magazine years ago, the Edmond resident held her first clothing swap in January. “For me, the cost savings was a big thing,” Haugen said. “I was looking for an affordable way to refresh my family’s wardrobe and this idea just fit.

My daughter is really into recycling, so it appealed to her as well.”

Haugen was impressed by the variety and quality of clothing that traded hands at her swap. “I was totally floored. Lots of things were new with tags still on them and almost everything was current fashions,” Haugen explained. “I was worried that it would be a lot of old or out-of-style things that no one would want. But that was not the case and it was really fun.”

Haugen says that the best part of the clothing swap wasn’t even necessarily the great clothes—it is the ease in which she was able to put the event together and the impact it had on those who attended. She teamed up with her 14-year-old daughter, who in turn involved her cheer team. “We put the whole thing together in about a week-and-a-half,” Haugen said with a laugh. “It was mostly

publicized through email, Facebook and word-of-mouth.”

Nearly 40 people attended her swap, each bringing a minimum of five items to exchange for other items. To accommodate the shoppers, Haugen moved the furniture out of her living and dining rooms and set up tables and racks to facilitate ease of shopping. Each person was allowed to bring an unlimited number of clothing items, shoes or accessories to swap, and could leave with as many items as which they came. The swap took place over a two-hour time frame and any items remaining at the end were donated to Dress for Success and Haitian Relief efforts.

The impact of the swap was immediately evident, especially to Haugen’s sister, who recently lost a significant amount of weight and needed a completely new wardrobe.

The swap allowed her to restock her closet without breaking the bank. “Look at the bottom dollar of it—there is no dollar,” Haugen said. “We all saved a ton of money and had a lot of great stuff to show for it.”

Kid-Themed Swap Coy McDonald of Norman had a similar experience. “I got the idea for the clothes swap because I needed pants for my 5-yearold son,” McDonald explained. “My family was doing an experiment where we pledged to not spend any money for 30 days. About two days into the experiment, my son must have had a growth spurt because suddenly all his pants were two inches too short.

Since I couldn’t just run out and buy him new pants, I decided to host a clothes swap.”

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

McDonald felt that a clothes swap would allow moms to help each other by trading clothes that their individual children had outgrown. She pitched the idea to the other members of her local MOMS Club Chapter and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

“I knew that I always had a bag of outgrown kid’s clothes that were just cluttering up the closet,” McDonald said. “I got such a huge response that I extended the invitation to any mom in Norman.” Like Haugen, McDonald’s swap was publicized exclusively by word-ofmouth. Holding her swap in a club member’s neighborhood clubhouse, McDonald said the guidelines for her swap were simple: everything was free; attendees could take all that they wanted, but must use everything they took; items were not to be resold; and participants did not have to bring something in order to take something.

McDonald estimates that 30 moms swapped at the event, which included baby equipment, baby clothing, children’s clothing, women’s clothing, and shoes. Leftover baby items were taken to Catholic Charities and the remainder was donated to Goodwill. “I found enough clothes to outfit my son for quite awhile,” McDonald reports. “It was also a great time of fellowship for the moms who participated.”

Host Your Own If spring cleaning has you looking for a way to rid yourself of unneeded items or if you’d like to re-energize your wardrobe without a trip to the mall, consider swapping. For eight simple steps to organize a clothes swap, visit lifeorganizers.com/organize-your-home/theorganized-closet/ and click on “Organize a Clothes Swap” or check for local clothing swaps on clothesswap.meetup.com. Too busy to hold a party? The website rehashclothes. com allows you to trade clothing and accessories with people all over the country via your local post office.

If you do decide to host a swap, Haugen offers some advice. She suggests holding the swap for a minimum of three hours to allow ample time for browsing and to have plenty of clothing racks on hand to display the treasures. When asked if she would go swapping again, Haugen replies “Absolutely!

I just need to come up with some more stuff to swap!”

Assistant Editor Brooke Barnett lives in Norman with her husband and two young children.

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Family Finances Debtors Beware: Debt Settlement Companies

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nemployment. Bankruptcies.

Foreclosures. Credit card debt. Job losses. The news is full of these stories almost every day. For many families, they aren’t just headlines; they are realities faced during an economic downturn.

Unfortunately, some people see today’s economic environment as a chance to make a profit at the expense of others who are suffering. Today’s families are bombarded with ways to get out of debt or get rich quick schemes, but few offer legitimate opportunities to improve family finances.

While getting out of debt sounds great, most people are not aware of the pitfalls that come from using some of the available debt management services. Debt settlement, consolidation and counseling may all sound similar, but they are actually very different—with very different outcomes.

Debt settlement involves negotiating down the amount of debt a consumer owes. Debt consolidation is combining several loans or liabilities into one loan to reduce the monthly payment. Debt counseling is giving advice, usually for a fee, to individuals who

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are struggling with high levels of debt that generally results in a debt management plan to repay the debt.

Debt Settlement Of the three, debt settlement companies pose the highest risk to a family’s finances.

The Federal Trade Commission warns that fraudulent practices in the debt settlement industry are continuing to grow, costing families millions of dollars.

With most debt settlement companies, individuals sign a contract agreeing to send the company a monthly payment for a set amount of time—generally three to five years. During that time, individuals are instructed to stop all payments to their creditors. Some companies send “cease and desist” letters to creditors, asking them to stop contacting families about their debt.

The settlement company collects its fees up front; most fees are several thousand dollars, including a fee to establish the account with the debt negotiator, a monthly service fee, and a final fee for the settlement payment.

Once the fees are paid, the individual’s monthly payments to the company are accumulated in an account to pay creditors a future lump sum settlement. Most debt settlement companies will not start negotiating with creditors until a sufficient amount of money to pay the debt has been collected.

Following are several potential consequences of engaging a debt settlement service: •

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Credit Damage. Because the settlement contract requires consumers to halt payments on their bills, late and missed payments are reported to credit bureaus and will stay on credit reports for seven years. Late and missed payments reduce credit scores, which results in higher payments, higher interest rates and reduced opportunities to get credit in the future. In addition, settlements are frequently reported to credit bureaus, telling potential creditors that the consumer did not repay the full debt and further reducing credit scores.

Lawsuits. Having a debt settlement plan in place provides little, if any, protection against legal actions taken by creditors.

Many creditors will sue consumers once they are contacted by the settlement company. In Oklahoma, creditors awarded a judgment against a consumer can garnish wages.

Increased fees and interest. Because consumers stop paying their creditors

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Confused by the terms? A quick explanation: • Debt settlement: negotiating down the amount of debt.

• Debt consolidation: combining liabilities into a single payment.

• Debt counseling: free advice which may result in a debt management plan. when using a settlement program, creditors continue adding fees and interest to their accounts—causing the amount originally owed to double or even triple.

With the additional interest and settlement fees, consumers may not save any money by using the service.

• Taxes. The IRS requires consumers to report any amount forgiven over $500 as taxable income.

• No guarantees. Just because consumers enter into a debt settlement contract does not guarantee that the creditor will accept a partial or settlement payment.

• Fraud potential. Some debt settlement companies make false claims or promises about what they can actually deliver on behalf of their customers. And in some cases, they have taken their customer’s money without performing any services on their behalf.

Families who need assistance in managing their debt should proceed with caution when seeking help. Major creditors are often willing to work out repayment plans when people really need to adjust their monthly obligations.

Debt Counseling Generally, a non-profit debt counseling organization such as Consumer Credit Counseling Service (cccsok.org) is a better option to pursue, as they are local and take a more personal interest in serving their customers.

Before entering into an assistance program, it is highly advisable to check out any company—whether non-profit or for-profit— with the Better Business Bureau or the State Attorney General’s office in the state where the firm is located.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

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April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

21

and learn how to do things they’ve never done before. By going through the activities, like the high elements part of the ropes course, they learn team work and to conquer fears,” he said.

Students arrive each morning to an opening message full of skits, games and fun. Then they break into small groups (called “family groups”) made up of 8-10 fellow campers along with an adult leader and assistant. The family groups experience the various activities together, allowing the leaders to invest in the students and build relationships with them.

Stephan believes that these relationships can truly change the lives of campers.

“If there is any one thing that helps a kid chart a new course, a new direction, it is that they have a meaningful adult relationship in their life. Somebody who listens to them, somebody who loves them, somebody who speaks into their life in a positive and encouraging way. Shiloh Camp provides that, in the form of counselors and activity leaders,” he said.

After a week full of energy and excitement, campers invite their families to join them at a picnic on Friday night to see the wonder of the camp for themselves. The campers put on a talent show, but the night’s true centerpiece is the award ceremony recognizing the value of each camper.

Summer camp is an American tradition. Children can run free in the beauty of nature, eat a snack in the shade of a tree, or stare in fascination at a wild bird or animal passing nearby.

However, in some of Oklahoma City’s urban neighborhoods, children don’t have the opportunity or resources to experience summer camps. These children grow up in a world of concrete and neon lights, facing problems and temptations beyond their years.

For the last decade, a group of dedicated individuals have created a camp in the very heart of the city for these urban youth. It is a hidden oasis of trees, streams and wildlife where children receive encouragement, guidance and love­—a place called Shiloh Camp.

Nestled off of 63rd and Broadway, Shiloh Camp is 40 acres of fun and activity. Every summer, the Christian camp hosts six one-week long sessions where campers experience everything from basketball to mountain biking to fishing, as well as tackling a ropes course and learning about their faith. Executive Director Stephan Moore believes the experience is one of fun as well as personal growth.

“The camp makes for a fun, adventurous experience where [campers] are learning a lot about themselves. The kids gain new confidences 22

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

“We give out what we call character awards in each of the family groups,” said Stephan. “The family group leaders pick out at least two positive character traits about their kids and stand up and present awards to them in front of their parents. A lot of our children at Shiloh have never received any kind of award, and what they receive really touches their heart.”

Stephan remembers one particular camper from last year who was positively impacted by the character awards.

“Last summer there was a little boy who was withdrawn and very shy. There wasn’t a lot of light in his eyes. He won the Barnabas award for being encouraging. When he came on stage and we put the award around his neck, the whole crowd was clapping. His smile almost broke his face, it was so big. You could see it was just filling him up on the inside.”

Once all awards have been passed out, each child receives a backpack filled with school supplies for the upcoming school year. With the camp able to hold 80 campers each of its six sessions, that adds up to a lot of backpacks to be stuffed.

“It is a massive undertaking,” said Stephan. “Churches and businesses provide money and supplies, and then volunteers put on a massive assembly line packing those bags. It is really neat to see the community at large getting involved in reaching out to the young people here. A lot of hands are involved in making it happen!”

“Camp has such a great impact on the lives of these kids.”

The community around Shiloh Camp comes together to make the experience possible. In a similar way, Stephan and his wife, Scotia, come together with their children to make Shiloh Camp more than just an occupation. It has become a family affair.

“We have seven children ages nine and under, with one on the way,” said Scotia. “One of the things I was personally excited about in coming to work at Shiloh was getting to do this as a family. All of our children can be out there having fun. Our nine-year-old was excited to help with the horses. Our seven-year-old twins were sweeping off the front porch. Getting to do this as a family has been a whole lot of fun.”

Stephan and the leadership of the camp are currently exploring ways to expand the camp to a year-round ministry.

“Camp has such a great impact on the lives of these kids,” said Stephan.

“As we go forward into the future, we want to extend our ministry by reaching out to their families.”

Ultimately, Stephan, Scotia and their staff believe all the planning and preparing is worth it when they see a child encouraged and inspired.

“I think that so many children, especially urban children, deal with a lot of adult and mature issues,” said Scotia. “They come in [to camp] as mini grown-ups. But they get a week of being loved on and running around in the sun, playing games, even riding horses. We see this awakening in them of curiosity for life. By the end of the week, we see them laugh out loud, wrestle around and just be children. The children learn about God’s word, and we instill values in them that can carry them back into their situations, equipped to deal with things differently.”

Because of the ministry of Shiloh Camp, the lives of Oklahoma City youth are being changed every summer.

Ben Davis spent many summers enjoying the camaraderie and excitement of summer camps. When not writing, working, studying, cleaning or doing laundry, he enjoys a good book and a good jog.

Shiloh Camp is open to youth ages 8-16, and focuses on youth who aren’t able to attend other camps.

Stephan Moore said, “Shiloh Camp was created to serve deserving kids who would not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in a camp experience. The tuition is $20 for the whole week. Our goal is to make it accessible to children and families.”

Want to get involved?

There are three ways to get involved and help Shiloh Camp achieve its mission.

Meals: Churches, civic organizations, and other groups provide all the meals during each week of camp. If you are interested in helping to provide a meal for the youth, contact the office at 405-858-7011.

School Supplies: Each camper ends the week with a backpack filled to the brim with important school supplies to take home. This massive school supply project is organized through Camp Shiloh’s office, volunteers offering time or donations are welcome.

Staff: Camp Shiloh’s impact is achieved in large part by the counselors who travel with each family group and stay connected to the campers all week. If you know a person, typically around college age, who would be a great fit for the camp, download a staff application.

To learn more and download a camp or staff application form, visit the Camp’s website (shilohcamp.org) or call 405-858-7011.

Stephan and Scotia Moore and their family are making a difference at Shiloh Camp.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

23

Your Healthy Family Making Healthy Restaurant Choices

O

ver the past thirty years, the rate of childhood obesity in the United States has more than tripled.

Currently, approximately 30 percent of American children ages 2-19 are classified as overweight or obese, putting them at increased risk for a host of health problems, including asthma, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and joint pain. Many health experts attribute this dramatic increase to societal changes. Families live life at a faster pace than in previous decades, and many households have single parents or two working parents, causing families to depend more heavily on restaurant and convenience foods. Most restaurants, in turn, have increased portion sizes 100 percent or more, and often do not provide nutritional information on the menu.

For many families, fast food is a regular menu item rather than an occasional treat.

According to licensed dietitian and father of three Mike Bowles, “America is like no other culture in the world as far as the fast-paced lifestyles we maintain. We’ve become used to the instant gratification idea for foods that sound good, but aren’t

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nutritionally sound. Our poor health is the result.” He encourages his clients to involve their kids in all aspects of food preparation, and limit the amount of restaurant food in their diets.

The Good, the Bad and Better Choices Although most kid’s meals often come with a fun toy, those meals may also come with lots of calories and fat grams. A typical fast food meal of cheeseburger, small fries and chocolate milk delivers almost half of the recommended daily caloric intake for a 7-year-old child, and about 65 percent of the total fat. It also lacks a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables, meaning those 5-7 servings are going to have to be made up elsewhere.

Chicken is only slightly better. For example, at McDonalds, Chicken McNuggets have 580 calories and 26 grams of fat. Substituting apples for fries provides an added fruit serving and cuts calories and fat, but includes a host of preservatives.

Casual dining restaurants boasted numbers that were even worse than their fast-food counterparts. At Chili’s, a Little Mouth Cheeseburger and french fries delivers 670 calories and 33 grams of fat, and that’s before you add the drink. Switch that cheeseburger for a grilled cheese, and you’re up to 760 calories and 51 grams of fat, and still no drink. On the bright side, Chili’s menu does offer some healthier options, such as a grilled chicken breast at 150 calories and 3 grams of fat, which can be combined with fresh grilled vegetables or fruit instead of fries. At On the Border, a kid’s cheese quesadilla boasts 850 calories and 67 grams of fat (27 saturated) all by itself, without sides or a drink. While they also offer some healthier options such as soft chicken tacos (240 calories and 11 grams of fat), and grilled chicken (90 calories, 1 gram of fat), their mixed vegetable side was actually more fat-laden than the French fries, with 14 fat grams.

Restaurants such as Quizno’s, Panera Bread, and Subway had healthier menu options, and featured fewer “menu shockers.” While these restaurants offer healthier nutritional content by the numbers, it’s still important to really look at what is on the menu. How many food groups are represented? Are the bread products made from whole grains? It’s a good idea to add a fruit and/or vegetable serving if possible, and that doesn’t necessarily mean fruit juice. “It’s okay to substitute one or two servings of fruit with 100% juice sometimes, but it doesn’t replace

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

the other nutrients found in fresh fruits and vegetables,” cautions Bowles.

What Parents Can Do Obviously, the best choice is to limit eating out. As a busy working mom, I know that sometimes practicality wins and we do grab food on the go. Here are some tips to encourage healthier restaurant eating: •

Can you really insist that your kids order fruit instead of fries when you do eat out?

In my experience, yes. As long as choices are offered, I’ve experienced relatively little resistance to shifting my family to a healthier diet. I always challenge them to get (and eat) as many colors on their plate as possible, so they’re always willing to get vegetables or fruit.

• Before heading to the restaurant, try providing an easy vegetable or fruit snack (think apples or carrots). The strategy is to get started with nutritious food, and try to reduce the high calorie and fat temptations.

• Check the menu for healthier items. It’s always smart to know what you’re eating, so ask for the nutrition information if it’s not posted (See sidebar for more healthy eating tips).

• Remember that moderation is key when it comes to restaurant dining. The only way to include foods with a high fat and calorie content in a healthy diet is to consider them a treat rather than a staple menu item.

• Greatly limit processed food, whether at a restaurant or the grocery store. “The less processed your diet, the better,” said Bowles. “Refined foods dominate in the American diet at home and in restaurants, and they are void of any nutrition.”

For more information on creating a healthier diet for your family, talk to a healthcare professional or a dietitian.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

Find more articles like this at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ family-health

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April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

25

Let’s Eat: Recipes Easter Egg-stravaganza!

L

ong after the Easter Bunny has hopped back down the bunny trail, the last jelly bean has been eaten and the last strand of Easter grass has been vacuumed up, it’s likely your fridge will be packed with brightly decorated Easter eggs.

While egg salad sandwiches are nice, here are some other ways to use up those left over hard-boiled eggs.

Surprise Meatloaf Muffins The kids will gobble up this meatloaf made kid-size with a tasty surprise tucked inside.

1 pound lean ground beef 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup ½ small onion, grated ½ cup dry bread crumbs ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved crosswise ¾ cup ketchup Preheat oven to 350º F. Coat a 12 cup muffin pan with cooking spray Mix ground beef, soup, onion, bread crumbs and pepper in a small bowl.

Divide the mixture in half. Set one half aside and distribute the other half evenly among the 12 cups. Place an egg half into each muffin cup; divide remaining meat mixture among the muffin cups; press to seal meat around the egg.

Bake for 50 minutes. Remove from oven, spread ketchup over each and return to the oven for 10 minutes. Serve hot.

Herbed Egg Spread Fresh herbs and vegetables liven up this terrific spread that’s perfect for snacking. ½ cup mayonnaise 1 stalk celery, chopped 1 small carrot, finely grated ¼ cup chopped black olives (optional) ½ small onion, minced 1 small clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 teaspoon dill weed, chopped ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped Various crackers for spreading Mix together all ingredients in a small bowl.

Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Spread on your choice of crackers.

Hurry Curried Eggs and Rice Warm but not too spicy, this curry comes together quickly for an easy weeknight meal.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 small onion, sliced 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup ½ cup milk 1 teaspoon curry powder (more or less, to taste) 6 cups cooked rice, warm 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled, quartered lengthwise and warmed 1 green onion, sliced Place oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add onion, cooking until translucent. Stir in the soup, milk and curry powder; cook until heated through.

Mound cooked rice on a serving platter.

Arrange eggs over rice. Pour sauce over eggs and rice; sprinkle with green onion and serve.

Did You Know?

• •

One large egg contains about 6 grams of protein.

The average American eats about 250 eggs each year.

Besides her two favorite jobs of wife and mom, Michelle Ann Anderson also home schools her children, is a freelance writer, enjoys public speaking, writing cookbooks and sharing her love of food with those around her. Her blog can be found at MichelleAnnAnderson.com

Find more recipes at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ recipes

Steve Mason ’78, founder of Cardinal Engineering and president of Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

Today I commit to community service.

Casady School. Prepare to Succeed.

405.749.3185

/ casady.org

Gary Woods, Casady Student, Class of 2015

Tomorrow I influence community development.

You might be aware of our academic prowess, or the pride and excitement at every one of our sporting events. You might be interested in our inspiring 80-acre campus or renowned art and drama program. But it doesn’t mean a thing unless our students grow and succeed. Before our students become leaders, we challenge their minds and build their spirit. It’s all by design.

Financial aid available. Casady School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

26

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Ask any Casady student or graduate.

They’re always well-prepared.

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575 Enterprise Drive, Edmond (South of 15th, off Kelly)

Your gift to united WaY of Central oklahoma

supports loCal programs that Change

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April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

27

52

When considering new healthier habits, it's often intimidating to change everything at once. These big changes can be daunting and difficult to fold into your already busy life, which makes the new habits more difficult to manage. Instead of making big changes all at the same time, try incorporating a new healthy habit or two each week. The following list of good healthy practices will get you started. These are small changes that can make a big impact on not only your health, but the environment's health as well. Pick the ones that you want to include in your life, skip the ones you don't and add any more that come to mind.

Tip #1: Drink 8 glasses of pure water a day.

Simple

to Be Health 5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

to opt for quick, unhealthy meals or snacks.

Spend 30 minutes twice a week cutting up fresh veggies to have them ready at all times for snacking emergencies.

Keep seasonal fruit at home and eat it when you’re hungry or when a sweet tooth strikes.

Substitute raw nuts and seeds for processed granola bars.

Don’t drink alcohol on an empty stomach; it’s hard on your stomach and burns up B vitamins.

Eat raw vegetables every day. Raw veggies contain important enzymes that can be lost when they’re cooked.

10. Look for organic foods when grocery shopping to make a positive impact on your body and your environment.

11. Next time you make cookies or cake, substitute half of the butter with applesauce, pumpkin or prune puree. Less fat; more nutrients.

12. Get at least eight hours of sleep a night.

13. Vary your food; if you eat it today, don’t eat it for four days.

14. Different colored food has different nutrients, so eat from the rainbow. Red peppers, orange carrots, green kale and others.

15. Thicken soups with pureed beans. Delicious plus added nutrition.

16. Don’t drink water from plastic bottles. Polycarbonate water bottles (labeled #7) contain bisphenol A (BPA), which leaches from the plastic and has been linked to chromosome damage and hormone disruption.

17. Start your day with a glass of fresh lemon water. Add the juice of up to one whole lemon to your water. Your liver will love you for it.

18. De-stress. Find out what works for you. Warm baths? Exercise?

Reading? Yoga? Walks in the woods? Find out what calms and soothes you and practice daily.

19. Move daily. Find the movement that moves your body and eases your mind and make it a part of who you are. If you enjoy it, you will do it.

20. Eat at a table, cloth napkin on your lap and chew well.

Be thankful and mindful at mealtimes.

1.

2.

3.

4.

28

Drink 8 glasses of pure water a day.

Purge the junk food from your pantry. If it’s not there, you can’t eat it.

Limit your caffeine intake: 1-2 cups of coffee a day.

Plan your weekly meals on your day off to limit the temptation www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

21. Next time you want scrambled eggs (or tofu), sauté some veggies first, then add eggs. Try eating your veggies all day!

22. Dry brush your skin before you shower in the morning.

It’s good for your lymphatic

Tip #24: Eat more beans! They’re high in protein, dietary fiber, and taste so good.

e Ways

hier in 2010 system and your skin will be so much softer and healthier.

23. Go meatless at least one day of the week. Research other sources of protein instead.

24. Eat more beans! They’re high in protein, dietary fiber, and taste so good.

25. Use whole grain flour in your baking instead of white flour.

Whole-wheat pastry flour is a fine grind and much healthier than the white stuff.

26. Use white sugar in moderation. Try maple syrup, honey, agave or stevia instead.

27. Don’t eat fake food! No artificial anything!

28. Don’t eat out as much. Cook more at home.

29. Exercise your mind! Learn a new dance, read a good book or learn a language. Keep your mind moving as well as your body.

30. Learn to communicate better. Speak your mind, kindly, and be done with it. Don’t hold grudges. Forgive yourself and others.

31. Make your own vinaigrette for your salads. Olive and/or flax oil, lemon juice or vinegar, a little Dijon mustard, a minced garlic clove and a little salt and pepper.

32. Use sea salt instead of the highly processed salt you find in many grocery stores.

33. Reduce salt intake. Use fresh herbs and lemon juice to boost flavor.

34. Try to stay off computers and away from anything electronic two hours before bed for a better night’s sleep.

35. Use plain yogurt instead of sour cream to save calories and fat.

36. Switch to whole wheat, corn or quinoa pasta (there are many selections) instead of pasta made from refined white flour.

37. Make an effort to avoid trans-fats. Read the labels to see what foods trans-fats are hiding in.

38. Add more leafy greens to your life—try kale, chard, spinach or radicchio. Steam the greens for a couple minutes, drain and set aside. In a pan sauté some onions, garlic and shiitake mushrooms in olive oil for a few minutes. Add the kale back in, stir and serve. Yum.

39. Use less cheese in casseroles that call for cheese. Instead sprinkle grated cheese on top.

Tip #19: Move daily. Find the movement that moves your body and eases your mind and make it a part of who you are. If you enjoy it, you will do it.

45. Watch what you put on your skin. Read labels of lotions and other products too.

46. Bake instead of frying your meats and fish.

47. Increase Omega 3 fatty acids in your diet. Sources include walnuts, flax seeds (and oil) and cold water fish such as salmon.

Healthy fats are important to good health.

48. Increase your intake of legumes: lentils, beans and peas. These are a good source of protein, dietary fiber and blood sugar regulators. Try split pea or lentil soup for breakfast!

49. Take supplements. Begin with a good multivitamin and speak with your health care provider about others that may be needed for your optimum health.

50. Watch your portion sizes as well as your plate and utensil sizes.

Some forks and spoons look like garden utensils. Try chopsticks and eat slowly.

51. Shop in the outside aisles of the grocery store for healthier choices. Most processed foods are located in the middle aisles.

52. Play! Everyone needs to have fun!

40. Begin each day with a good stretch and some deep breaths.

41. Try new ingredients. Buy a kohlrabi or jicama or something else you’ve never tried before.

42. Don’t reward yourself or your family with food.

43. Try to eat food when it is in season; it’s more nutritious and tastes better.

44. Don’t go hungry. Eat healthy snacks so you don’t overeat later.

Patty James is a Certified Natural Chef with a Master's degree in Holistic Nutrition and founder and director of the Patty James Cooking School and Nutrition Center, the first certified organic cooking school and nutrition center in the country. Visit pattyjames. com or shinethelightonkids.org to learn more.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

29

2010 Summer Camp & Activities Guide Paid Advertisement

What are your plans for this summer? This year, our Summer Camps and Activities Guide continues our tradition of presenting you, our readers, with the best that the Metro has to offer.

This year our guide is highlighted with images taken at Camp Shiloh, which offers camp options for underprivileged children. See page 22 for more information on the camp.

How to Make Summer Camp Count The costs of summer camp may seem daunting, especially in today’s economic climage. However, particularly for working parents, camp is not a luxury but an essential part of the summer.

With three months of time off from school ahead, do you envision your child lying on the couch in front of the TV all summer long?

Do you have thoughts of your teen plugged into an iPod or on Facebook for three straight months—or worse? It is a recurring challenge for all parents.

Perhaps we should rethink summer. Instead of viewing it as endless hours for parents to coordinate activities, view it as part of

Campers at Camp Shiloh learn to work together.

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April 29th: 10:00 am- 8:00 pm Come Raidt Close April 30th: 10:00 am- 8:00 pm Our May 1st: Half Price Day 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Kids Closet Connection Consignment Sale Visit us at www.kidscloset.biz for more info

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

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your child’s education plan. Summer programs offer your child an opportunity for learning new skills, preparing for independence and developing passions that may extend to future careers or life-long hobbies.

Tips on Trips and Camps, a camp advisory program, offers the following suggestions to make teen programs and summer overnight camps part of your child’s education plan.

•

Is your child an athlete? Look into sports specialty programs, a traveling sports trip or a program in sports management or broadcasting.

• Is your child a nature lover? If he’s outgrown camp, try an outdoor adventure of rock-climbing, rafting or hiking.

• Does your child love the water? Consider aquatic activities or programs working with marine animals.

• Is your child interested in other countries? Look for programs with language or cultural exploration.

• Is your child a born performer? Consider a performing arts program including design, dance, music or filmmaking.

• Is your child a budding philanthropist? Community servicecentered programs may be the answer.

Summer camp and teen programs are a chance for your child to have new experiences not found in a classroom. No matter what your budget or your interest there is a summer program to meet your family’s financial and educational needs. Make summer count!

An Exciting Summer Education Program For Youth

Help is readily available to families picking an overnight camp that matches their child’s interests and needs. A handful of companies provide free consulting and advisory services for families. The service is provided without charge, and families do not incur any obligation when they request guidance or information.

An exmple is Tips on Trips and Camps, one of the oldest and largest of these types of advisory services. Established in 1971, “Tips” has advisors in 16 cities, relationships with over 600 overnight camps and programs, and each year provides advice and guidance to thousands of families. The service is provided by phone, email and online, which makes it available to anyone virtually anywhere. For more information and advice, to request brochures and DVDs, or speak to a knowledgeable consultant, visit tipsontripsandcamps.com.

Eve Eifler is the Co-Director, Tips on Trips and Camps.

Clown Makeup • Team Building • Magic • Mime • Lunches • Graduation

INTEGRIS Health 19th Annual Camp Funnybone

Summer Youth Academy 2010 Enrollment begins Thursday, April 29.

Over 100 options for youth ages 9-16, all classes held at Franklin Road Campus.

Classes in Health, Engineering, Computers, and Arts.

Visit our website to learn more about the NEW 2010 Summer Youth Academy online enrollment process! www.mntechnology.com/sya Visit either campus with enrollment questions or call 364.5763, ext 7260.

Franklin Road Campus 4701 12th Avenue NW Norman, OK 73069

MOORE NORMAN TECHNOLOGY CENTER

June 22 – 26 8:30am to 3pm For ages 6 - 14 • $175 per child (includes lunch, snacks and all supplies)

Heritage Hall, 1800 N.W. 122 Street,OKC To register call Joycelyn Raper, (405) 717-9873 Camp Funnybone takes performing arts to a new level. This unique camp expands the imagination, and is designed to teach kids to use laughter as a coping tool, and help them realize they can be whatever they set their hearts and minds to be.

Costumes • Improvisation • Props • Snacks • Certificates • Lots of Laughs April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

31

2010 Summer Camp & Activities Guide Paid Advertisement

9500 N Penn, OKC 405-749-3192,casady.org Dates: June 7-August 13 Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $69-$345, open enrollment Over 100 summer programs from academic enrichment to athletic camps, for PreK-high school

No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $100-$500, day and overnight camps available Camps for grades K-12, separated by grade level, from beginner to advanced level. Players learn shooting, passing, dribbling, movement and offensive/defensive concepts.

Catch-A-Glimpse Retreat Center

11400 S County Line Rd, Cashion 405-433-2092, catch-a-glimpse.com Dates: July 21-August 20 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: Day camps, 2-5 days per week, $250 per day for session Providing a Day Care Day Camp ultimate day camp experience. Activities designed for ages 5-12.

Daycares and other groups interested in scheduling a day camp for their kids should call for more information.

Camp Chaverim

Summer Camps Basketball Camps by Shock Basketball Academy 3333 W Hefner Rd, OKC 405-816-HOOP, scubabasketball.com Dates: June 1-August 4

4901 N Penn, OKC 405-848-3132, jfedokc. org Dates: June 7-August 6 Before/after care available; no

scholarships Cost: $295-$555 for three week session; enroll by May 1 for early savings Day camp for children ages 2-14 includes arts, sports, swimming and outdoor activities.

Casady School Summer by the Lake

Leadership STEM Canoeing Horses Swimming High Adventure And more

Chess Camp

Held at Heritage Hall School (1800 NW 122nd, OKC) and Metro Christian Academy (Tulsa) 888-652-4377, chesscamp.com Dates: June 7-11, July 19-23 (OKC); June 28-July 2 (Tulsa) No before/after care; no scholarships

CHESS CAMP 14 Annual USA Chess National Summer th

Chess Camp Tour

USA Chess is the largest and premier summer chess camp organizer for children in the U.S. with more than 100 schools nationwide. Our staff is comprised of the finest children's chess instructors. Campers experience a fun filled week while learning the skills needed to play casual and/or competitive chess.

June 7-11th & July 19-23rd

2010 Girl Scouts Fantastic Journeys June 5-July 10 Family-friendly drop-off & pick-up times Resident & Day Camps You don’t have to be a Girl Scout to go!

Register online now 800-698-0022 32

www.gswestok.org 405-528-3535

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Heritage Hall School Oklahoma City, OK

June 28th-July 2nd

Metro Christian Academy Tulsa, OK

Tuition includes tee-shirt, trophy, chess board and pieces and much more.

• Beginners - Advanced Welcome! • Co-ed, ages 5-16 • Group & Sibling Discounts • Morning, Afternoon & All-day Sessions Register Online:

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June 7-11 At Game Builder Creation Camp your child will actually design, Heritage Hall, OKC develop and create a one of a kind video game.

3D Animation Creation Camp We combine learning and June 7-11 fun and bring it to a whole Heritage Hall, OKC new level. Enroll at gamebuildercamp.com/video.htm Car Race Video Game Creation 888.652.4377 June 7-11

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Cost: Fees vary; enrollment available until full; online registration available.

Chess instruction for all experience levels (including complete beginners).

City Arts Center

3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC 405-951-0000, cityartscenter.org Dates: May 24-August 13 Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $120 for 4-day camps (held Memorial Day week & Independence Day week); $150 for 5-day camps; register until camp start date A different camp held each week for ages 5-17. Full details available on website.

City of Edmond Parks & Recreation

2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond 405-359-4630, edmondok.com Dates: July 19-23 or 26-30 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $150 ($115 each additional child); enroll by July 9 for Tshirt Summer Blast Camp day camp, 7:30am-5:30pm for ages 5½-12. Activities include arts and crafts, dodgeball, pottery, science, games and field trips to Pelican Bay Aquatic Center.

CLUB Z! Tutoring

3200 E Memorial Rd, Edmond 405-478-3515, clubztutoring.com Dates: June 7-25, July 5-29 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: group rates; enrollment due May 28 Summer Academy at Oklahoma Christian University includes math prep, ACT prep and study skills.

Covenant Presbyterian Church

10100 Ridgeview Dr, OKC 405-751-2546, covenantokc.org Dates: July 26-30 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $10 ($5 each additional child); enrollment until camp begins MusiCamp ROCKS! 5:30-8:30pm includes singing, photography, crafts, recreation, puppets and dance for grades K-5.

Cross Creek Stables

2200 NW 192nd St, Edmond 405-340-3432, crosscreekstablesokc.com Dates: June 28-August 13 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $195; enrollment accepted until full Daycampers are paired with a horse at the beginning of week-long camp sessions and learn basic horsemanship in a safe, interactive environment.

The Fine Arts Institute of Edmond

27 E Edwards, Edmond 405-340-4481, edmondfinearts.com Dates: June 7-August 13 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost and enrollment information available online June 14-18: Create Escape, grades 2-8 June 22-24, July 6-8, August 10-12: Little Artists, ages 3-6 (potty trained), 9-11am

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

33

2010 Summer Camp & Activities Guide Paid Advertisement

or 1-3pm July 19-23: Theatre Escape, grades 3-8 July 26-30: Art Escape, grades 2-8 August 2-7: Drama Intensive (auditions June 1)

Francis Tuttle Technology Center

12777 N Rockwell Ave, OKC 405-717-4900, francistuttle.edu/summer Dates: June 7-July 2 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $69; enrollment until start date Summer Quest program classes for ages 11-14; students may take up to 2 classes per day, 8:30am3:00pm, Monday-Friday. Full schedule on website.

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum

1400 Classen Dr, OKC 405-235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com Dates: June 21-25 No before/after care; scholarships available

Cost: $75-$100 includes snack; register by May 21 “I am Oklahoma Arts & Sciences,” 8am-noon, ages 5-12 includes experiments and hands-on arts. “I am Oklahoma Farm & Ranch,” 1-5pm, ages 5-12 includes information about life on farms and ranches. “Oklahoma Ambassadors,” 8am-noon or 1-5pm, ages 13-15 campers assist teachers and campers to learn volunteering skills. Campers attending morning and afternoon sessions receive 10% discount and lunch.

121 NE 50th, OKC 405-528-3535, gswestok.org Dates: June 14-July 30 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $85-$450, day and overnight camp sessions; registration until full Day camp held at Camp Cookieland; resident camp held at Camp E-Ko-Wah; travel camps go across state and Kansas City. Bus transportation available from OKC.

Ginger’s Kindermusik

Guitar for Kids

6008 NW 120th Ct, OKC 405-722-2379, gingerskindermusik.com Dates: June 21-25 or July 19-23 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $60-$120; ongoing enrollment Themed music daycamps for children birth to age 7; Piano keyboard camp for ages 7-8 (keyboard required).

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St John’S EpiScopal School and child dEvElopmEnt program

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Educating the whole child because the best education requires more than just books Infant to 8th Grade

5401 N Brookline, Oklahoma City • Phone (405) 943-8583 • www.stjohnsokc.com

St. John’s is the wise choice: Worship, Instruction, Service and Enrichment

201 E Campbell, Edmond 405-340-8294, guitarforcoolkids.com Dates: June 3-July 29 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $210, enrollment due May 31 Campers will learn to read tab, scale and chord charts using popular songs, plus instruction in distortion pedals. 40 minute classes, 8 sessions, limited enrollment.

Harn Homestead Museum

1721 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC 405-235-4058, harnhomestead.com Dates: June 14-18 Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $40 per day or $125 per week; registration deadline June 7 Day camp for ages 6-12, 9:30am-3:30pm. Daily themes teach how early Oklahomans lived and include some modern fun. Monday is Pioneer day, Tuesday is exploring nature, Wednesday explore bugs, Thursday is creative crafts, Friday is dairy day (featuring homemade ice cream).

Henderson Hills Baptist Church

1200 E I-35 Frontage Rd, Edmond 405-341-4639, hendersonhills.com Dates: May 31-August 5

Exercising Your Child’s Body, Mind, & Soul

Now enrolling for April- July Ages 2-12 • Classes will be held at Cochran Music School

Call us for details and other fun & educational opportunities.

405-850-5487 or 405-360-4330

www.wildchildyoga.com 34

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

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Panama City, FL), July 25-30, grades 9-12; activities include worship, small groups, theme nights on the beach, sand volleyball Kid’s Camp (Cave Springs Camp, Quapaw, OK), August 2-5, entering grades 4-6, $185; activities include worship, small groups, horseback riding, swimming.

Heritage Hall Day Camp

1800 NW 122nd Street 405-749-3002, heritagehall.com Dates: June 1-July 23 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $130-$500; ongoing registration Day camps for ages 3 and up, including enrichment, creativity, technology and sports-focused options. Full listing available online.

No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $200-$395 overnight camps Middle School Camp (Wow Camp, Gerty, OK), May 31-June 4, grades 6-8, $295; activities include worship, small groups, zip line, volleyball, rock climbing High School Camp (Laguna Christian Resort,

Integris Health / Camp Funnybone

1800 NW 122nd, OKC 405-717-9873, integrisok.com Dates: June 22-26 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $175 Classes in clown makeup, magic and team building.

Jazzercise Edmond

420 S Bryant, Edmond 405-359-8088, edmondjazz.com Dates: June 7-11 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $89-$109; enrollment available until camp begins or until camp is full Junior Jazzerkamp for ages 4-12 includes fitness activities, dance, nutrition information and the importance of physical fitness.

Kansas Cosmosphere & Space Center

1100 N Plum St, Hutchinson 800-397-0330, cosmo.org Dates: May 28-August 11 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $95-$1,895 for day and overnight camps; enrollment available until May 28 or until camp is full Space-themed astronaut camp programs designed for engineers and scientists for grades 2-10.

Karen’s Kids Studio of Dance

1110 S Air Depot, Midwest City 405-732-7722, karenskidsstudioofdance.com Dates: June 22-23 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $45 or $85 includes snack; register until day of

SUMMER CAMPS June Flute Camp: June 7-10 For grades 6-8, master classes and performance opportunities, $100*

Dance and Down Syndrome Music Theatre Camp: June 21-25 For students age 13 and up with Down Syndrome, dance classes and performance of “High School Musical 3,” $100

Guitar Workshop: June 8-10 For all ages, $80

PianOKC: June 28-30 Piano ensemble camp for all ages, $200*

Summer Dance Workshop: June 14-18 For ages 8 and up, modern, jazz and ballet classes. $150

July

Graphic Design 1 Workshop: July 12-20 For high school and first year college students, $175* Drama Day Camp+: July 12-16 Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory July 19-23 Beauty and the Beast For ages 7-12, makeup, costumes, acting, scenery, props, movement, music, $125/week* Graphic Design 2 Workshop: July 21-30 For high school and first year college students, $175*

High School Drama Camp+: June 14-18 For ages 13-18, makeup, costumes, acting, production and performance of “Annie,” $125*

Strings Camp: July 5-9 (Auditions May 22 and July 3rd) For ages 9 to high school, master classes and performance opportunities, $200*

Drama Day Camp+: June 21-25 For ages 7-12, makeup, costumes, acting, production and performance of “Honk,” $125*

Interior Design Workshop: July 12-20 For high school and first year college students, $175*

*Early bird discount of $25 if registered by April 30th +Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 W 54th St, New York, NY 10019 Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684 www.mtishows.com

Contact: OCAE 405-216-2586 or lpenton@uco.edu • www.ocae.net

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

35

2010 Summer Camp & Activities Guide Paid Advertisement

405-524-9310, lyrictheatreokc.com Dates: June 21-July 10 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $425, enrollment opens April 22 until full Performance and technique based musical theater camp for children ages 8-14. Campers will participate in Lyric Theatre’s Summer 2010 production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

camp or full Day camp classes for beginning- to advance-level dancers. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and modern for ages 7 and up (6 hours per day, $85); tap, jazz, hip hop, creative movement and tumbling for ages 6 and under (3 hours per day, $45)

Keystone Adventure School

19201 N Western Ave, Edmond 405-216-5400, keystoneadventureschool.com Dates: June 1-July 30 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $30 half day, $50 full day, $200 week-long ($40 enrollment fee) Campers will help to care for farm animals, tend a garden and fish.

Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art

Kumon Math and Reading

245 S Santa Fe, Edmond; 405-216-9800 775 W Covell, Edmond; 405-715-1111 204 N Mustang Mall Terr, Mustang; 405-376-6400 1320 N Interstate Dr, Norman; 405-364-1600 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: Details available online; enrollment begins in May Summer Start Up Program for ages 3-18 teaches strong study and time management skills plus goal setting.

La Petite Academy

Various locations in the Metro area 877-577-0356, lapetite.com/summercamp Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost and enrollment details available online To the Max Summer Camp week-long sessions features fun, active programs for up to age 12.

Lyric Theatre & Thelma Gaylord Academy

1727 NW 16th St, OKC

1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee 405-878-5300,mgmoa.org Dates: June 7-July 30 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $15-$75; registration until full Creative Art Camps for grades K-3 (10am-noon) or 4-7 (1-3pm). Egypt, Mummies and Masks explores Egyptian art and culture. Classical Camp explores Greek heroes, gods, art and culture. Modern Shakespeare participants will write and perform their own play. Unconventional Art will create art using creative media and unconventional methods.

Each camp ends with exhibition and family reception.

Mad Science of Central Oklahoma

344 S Santa Fe Ave, Edmond 405-285-9643, madscience.org/okc Dates: June 21-August 6

Keystone School and Farm

Educating the whole child...

It’s in our nature!

Open Enrollment June 1st - July 30th Kindergarten and Up Monday - Friday 8am - 5:45 pm 19201 N. Western Ave., Edmond

405-216-5400

KeystoneAdventureSchool.com 36

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Prmrs_60722_3.5 x 4.75 - Ad #237 - THIS AD CAN NOT BE EDITED

Paid Advertisement

Enrolling now for

Summer Camp.

No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $110-$220, enrollment until camp start date Week-long half- and full-day camp sessions for ages 4-12. Secret Agent Lab, Science AdventureQuest and Science in Motion (ages 6-12); The World Around Me and Little Agents Academy (ages 4-6). See website for locations and schedule.

Missouri Military Academy

204 N Grand St, Mexico, Missouri 573-581-1776, missourimilitaryacademy.org Dates: June 27-July 23 Before/after care available; no scholarships Cost: Day or overnight camps; $2,500-$3,750; enrollment until camps begin Enrichment and Recovery Academy structured, non-military program providing boys and girls grades 7-12 with a diverse schedule of activities and academics.

Primrose School of Edmond 15000 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73013

405.285.6787

www.primroseedmond.com

Trusted L eadership.

Proprietary Balanced ® Learning curriculum ion

Educational accreditat

Mount St Mary Catholic High School

2801 S Shartel, OKC 405-631-8865, mountstmary.org Dates: June-July

Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated. Primrose Schools, Balanced Learning, and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2010 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

College for Kids & Summer Sports Camps 60722_Prmrs_LocalAd_ID_237.indd 1

3/23/10 3:58 PM

Have Fun, Be Creative and Learn All Summer Long

June 7–July 30

OPEN ENROLLMENT

begins the week of April 26, 2010 Receive a 10% discount on summer programs by enrolling this week.

For information and to enroll: 405-686-OCCC www.occc.edu

7777 South May Avenue April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

37

2010 Summer Camp & Activities Guide Paid Advertisement

Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost and enrollment details available online Summer camps for children entering grades 2-9.

OCU Summer Music Programs

2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 405-208-5410, okcu.edu/music/academy Dates: June 12-July 31 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $2,100-$3,150 overnight camp; enrollment until full

405-682-7859, occc.edu/coe Dates: June 7-July 30 Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $39 per class; $99 full day, enrollment opens April 26 College for Kids and Teens includes musical theater, math and computer application, science, humanities and social sciences and creative arts for grades 1-8.

OKC Riversport

725 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC 405-552-4040, riversportokc.org Dates: June 1-August 15 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: Free-$150; registration details on website Let’s Move free once a week daycamp for ages 8-14 includes bicycling, running, and kayaking.

Oklahoma River Adventure Camps for ages 8 and up features kayaking, dragon boating and games ($150; morning or afternoon sessions). Youth rowing camps for ages 13 and up ($150; mornings).

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

415 Couch Dr, OKC 405-236-3100, okcmoa.com Dates: June 1-August 6 Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $60-$130 for daycamps; enrollment accepted until camp is full Themed, 4-day camp programs for ages 4-16, based on permanent collection exhibits and special exhibit "Sketch to Screen: The Art of Hollywood Costume Design." Student reception held each Friday.

Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Performing Arts Summer Camp

Jr. High Music Theater, High School Music Theater, Vocal Arts Institute, Theater Voice, Percussion or Suzuki Guitar programs. Details available online.

Oklahoma Aquarium

300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, okaquarium.org Dates: June 14-18, 21-25, July 12-16, 19-23 Before/after care available; no scholarships Cost: $200 per child per week Summer “Surf and Turf” SeaCamp five-day sessions include experiments, scavenger hunts and close-up activities with aquarium animals (including sharks).

Oklahoma City Community College

7777 S May Ave, OKC 38

NW Optimist Performing Arts Center 3301 NW Grand Boulevard, OKC, OK 73116 405-841-2412, OKC.gov/Parks Dates: June 24-August 2 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $150/two week session includes snacks; enrollment until full Performing arts day camps for ages 6-17 held over four two-week sessions. Includes singing, dancing, acting, costuming and basic stage setup.

Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Youth Tennis Clinics

Earlywine Tennis Center, 2101 SW 119th, OKC, 405-691-5430 ;Oklahoma City Tennis Center, 3400 N Portland, OKC 405-946-2739 okc.gov/parks Dates: June 1-August 7 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $80 per week Tennis camps and clinics for ages 5-17 includes lessons on game basics, strokework and gamesmanship.

Oklahoma City Zoo 2010 NE 50th, OKC

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

405-425-0218, zoofieldtrips.com Dates: June 28-August 13 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $85 members, $95 nonmembers; register until one week prior to camp start date For ages 4-15, 43 themed camps include animal encounters, crafts and storytimes.

Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

PO Box 53465, OKC 405-521-3719, wildlifedepartment.com Dates: July 11-16 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: Free; register by April 16 The 12th Annual Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Youth Camp is held at Lake Texoma. Activities include learning about wildlife-related career opportunities, archery, ropes course, swimming, self-devense and wildlife law enforcement.

Overnight camp for ages 14-16.

Orr Family Farm

14400 S Western, OKC 405-799-3276, orrfamilyfarm.com Dates: June 8-July 23 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $160; register until first day of camp Sessions held June 8-11, June 22-25, July 20-23. Hands-on activities include ropemaking, soapmaking, pony rides, animal care and fishing.

Palette Art Camp

3300 SW 149th, OKC 405-691-6366 Dates: June / July No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $39-$59 for lessons; $125 for week-long day camps (held 9am-noon); register until May 31 or until full June 7-11: ages 4-5; June 14-18: grades 1-2; June 2125: grades 3-4; June 28-July 2: grades 5-6 Lessons held Mondays in June (painting, 1:30-3pm); Tuesdays in June (drawing, 1:30-3pm), Wednesdays in June (printing, 1:30-3pm includes field trip to Guthrie). July 5-9 Mommy & Me for ages 3-4.

Primrose School of Edmond

15000 N Western Ave, OKC 405-285-6787, primroseedmond.com Dates: June 1-August 15 Before/after care available; no scholarships Cost: weekly tuition, supply fee and activity fee; enrollment deadline May 1 Daycamp sessions for grades 1-6, includes handson activities, field trips and SACS-CASI accredited curriculum.

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 405-325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu Dates: June 7-August 6

Paid Advertisement

No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $65-$70; registration until full Summer Explorers program for children ages 4-14.

All classes spend some time outdoors on museum grounds; select classes travel via museum van. Full listing of classes available online.

Santa Fe Family Life Center / Camp 110

6300 N Santa Fe Ave, OKC 405-840-1817, sfflc.com Dates: June 14-18, July 5-9, July 19-23 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $125-$200; enrollment available until camp begins Camp for children entering grades 2-9 includes swimming, basketball, tennis, volleyball, speed and agility and kayaking.

Science Museum Oklahoma

2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 405-602-3760, sciencemuseumok.org Dates: June 21-July 30 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $200/week members ($235 non members), enroll 2 weeks early for discount, registration due one week prior to camp start date “Did You Ever?� camp sessions. Six one-week camps for grades 1-3 and 4-6. Cost includes

museum admission, activities, lunch and t-shirt.

Shiloh Summer Camp

601 NE 63rd St, OKC 405-858-7011, shilohcamp.org Dates: One-week sessions held June 7-July 30 (no camp sessions June 28th - July 9th) No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $20 per week Full day camp sessions for ages 8-11 and 12-16, targeting OKC's inner city youth. 9am5:30pm Monday-Thursday; 9am-8:30 Friday with performance. Outdoor activities include horsemanship (care and riding), art/clay, dance, sports, fishing, zip line/ropes courses and Bible study.

The Sooner Theatre

101 E Main, Norman 321-9600, soonertheatre.org Dates: June 7-July 30 No before/after care; scholarships available Cost: $100-$325 One-, two- and three week half-day performing arts camps for grades K-8. Musical theatre, acting, improv, tap, claymation. Full details online.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

39

2010 Summer Camp & Activities Guide Paid Advertisement

June 7-11: Tech Boot Camp, ages 13-18, $150 June 8-10: Jazz Lab Guitar Workshop, all ages (1 year experience required), $80 June 14-18: Dance Workshop, ages 8-12 and 13-18, $150, register by 6/1; High School Drama Camp “Annie,” ages 13-18, $125 June 21-25: Dance & Down Syndrome Music Theatre Camp, ages 13 and up, $100; Drama Day Camp “Honk,” ages 7-12, $125 June 28-30: PianOKC, all ages, $200, registration due May 1 July 5-9: Strings Chamber Music Camp, ages 9-18, $200, registration due 6/18 July 12-16: Drama Day Camp “Willy Wonka,” ages 7-12, $125 July 12-20: Interior Design Workshop, high school age, $175 includes starter kit; Graphic Design Workshop Level I, high school age, $175 includes starter kit July 12-31: Graphic Design Workshop Level II, high school age, $175 includes maintenance kit July 13-17: Summer Chorale Institute overnight camp, free to invited students (auditions held in April; see website) July 19-23: Drama Day Camp “Beauty and the Beast,” ages 7-12, $125

Unpluggits Playstudio

575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond 405-340-7584, unpluggits.com Dates: June-July No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $85 per week; enrollment until full Half-day camp sessions with a Superhero or Dinosaur theme. Full schedule available online.

Velocity Dance Center

Trinity School

321 NW 36th, OKC 405-525-5600, trinityschoolokc.org Dates: June 8-July 15 Before/after care available; no scholarships Cost: $350 (Summer Fun program), $950 (intensive programs); enrollment until full Intensive Language Arts and Math (grades Kindergarten-11, 9-11am) multisensory application to learning; Intensive Reading Therapy (grades 1-11, 9-11am) limited to 3 students; Summer Fun program (grades Kindergarten-11, 11am-3:30pm, bring sack lunch) features school skills plus games and activities. Students grouped by grade level.

University of Central Oklahoma - UCO

100 N Univeristy Dr, Edmond 405-216-2586, ocae.net Dates: vary; see below Before/after care and scholarships available for some camps Cost: varies; see below. Registration due 5/30 unless otherwise noted; early registration discount available for many camps June 7-10: Flute Camp, grades 6-8, $100 40

11122 N Rockwell Ave, OKC 405-721-8807, velocitydancecenterokc.com Dates: July-August No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $75 per week July 12-16: Princess Camp, ages 3-5 (9am-noon); ages 6-8 (12:30-3:30pm) July 26-30: Pop Star Camp , ages 5-8 (9am-noon) August 2-6: Princess Camp, ages 4-7 (9am-noon)

Victory School of the Arts

4300 N MacArthur Blvd, OKC 405-440-2186, victorydance.tv Dates: June 21-August 7 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $65-$85; registration through June 18 Classes for ages 3 and up in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop and worship dance. Tumbling/acro and guitar lessons also available.

Video Game Creation/ Game Builders Camp

Held at Heritage Hall School (1800 NW 122nd, OKC) 888-652-4377, gamebuildercamp.com/video.htm Dates: June 7-11 No before/after care; no scholarships

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Cost: Fees vary; enrollment available until full; online registration available.

Participants will design, develop and create a videogame. Car Race and 3-D animation creation camps also held.

Westminster School

600 NW 44th, OKC 405-524-0631, westminsterschool.org Dates: June 14-18 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $210, enrollment due by June 1 Camp Invention INNOVATE program for grades 1-6.

Campers will build their own motorized creature, explore patterns, play games and sports. 9am3:30pm daily.

Wild Child Yoga

Cochran Music Preschool I-35 & Indian Hills Road, Norman 405-850-5486, wildchildyoga.com Dates: June-August No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $50 and up; enrollment until full Yoga for ages 2-12 held Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

YMCA Camp Classen

10840 Main Camp Rd, Davis 405-297-7740, itsmycamp.org Dates: June-July Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $600/week, $985/2 weeks (overnight camp); registration deadline June 1 Christian camps for ages 8-17 held on 2400-acre site in the Arbuckle Mountains of Southern OK. Air-conditioned cabins and experienced camp counselors. Hiking and horseback trails, activity center, waterfront area and outdoor chapel.

YMCA of Greaker OKC

500 N Broadway, OKC 405-297-7777, ymcaokc.org Dates: May 24-August 13 Before/after care available; scholarships available Cost: $85-$125/week; enrollment until full Passport to Fun! summer camps include character development, swimming, games, field trips and outdoor activities. Sessions held at YMCA locations around the Metro.

Other Activities Andy Alligator’s Fun Park

3300 Market Place Dr, Norman 405-321-7275, andyalligators.com Dates: June 1-August 1 Cost: varies; see website for details Summer activities include miniature golf, go karts, arcade, bumper boats, climbing wall and batting cages.

Paid Advertisement

110

Bouncin Craze

14901 N Lincoln Blvd, Edmond 405-607-2020, bouncincraze.com Dates: June 1-August 20 Cost: $7.50 per child/drop in play Open play for children over age two.

Jump! Zone Party & Play Center

Palagio Shops (SW 104th & Western), OKC 405-200-1691, jumpzoneparty.com Extended summer open play Monday-Friday 10am-4pm; Tuesday and Thursday evenings 4:30-8pm.

Metropolitan Library System

MetroLibrary.org Dates: June 1-July 31 Cost: FREE For up to age 17. Summer Reading Program, fun activities and events, prizes and drawings at all branch locations. Contact your local branch for details.

Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Play in the Park

405-297-2211, okc.gov/parks Dates: June 16-August 6 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: Free of charge Supervised activities for ages 6 and up, held at 26 Metro-area park locations.

Activities include arts, crafts, sports and games.

CAMP 110 IS DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE KIDS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH SPORTS. EACH SESSION IS PACKED WITH FUN, FRIENDS, AND EXERCISE. TIME AGE

9:00AM - 3:00PM 2ND - 9TH GRADE

(2010 - 2011 SCHOOL YEAR)

Oklahoma History Center

2401 N Laird Ave, OKC 405-522-0765, okhistory.org Dates: June 2-July 28 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $2 per child, includes museum admission Okietales held each Wednesday, 10-11am, includes reading and storytelling time that will bring Oklahoma history to life for children. For children ages 4-9 to explore history. Limited space; registration required.

Oklahoma River Cruises

701 S Lincoln, OKC 405-702-7755, okrivercruises.com Dates: May 8-August 21 No before/after care; no scholarships Cost: $3-$15 per person History Cruises reenact history through the eyes of those who created it. Held every Saturday. Public cruises also held every Wednesday-Sunday.

FIRST CHILD

$200 ADDITIONAL CHILDREN

$125 SESSION 1

JUNE 14-18

SESSION 2

JULY 5-9

SESSION 3

JULY 19-23

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

41

The Top Ten Reasons to attend

Sunday, April 18th • Noon - 5pm

Downtown OKC Sheraton Hotel Pavilion (just north of Cox Convention Center, Broadway & Sheridan)

for everyone—parents, grandparents, 10 Fun & kids of every age—as they seek ideas for celebrating the best summer ever!

summer safety tips from Oklahoma 9 Learn Safe Kids Coalition. about a full range of camps and 8 Learn activities (outdoor activities, sports, the arts,

academic enrichment and more) for kids ages 3 to 16. Plus map out your family adventures to destinations around the state!

can have fun with dozens of hands-on 7 Kids activities, mascots, entertainment and more!

Rumble (the 6 Meet Thunder mascot), the Thunder Girls, and tour the Thunder Book Bus. kid-friendly 5 Enjoy concessions, provided for a familyfriendly price

by Sheraton Hotel.

4 pilot Jim Gardner, and Travis and Presley (winner of The Greatest American Dog Contest on CBS) demonstrating to kids about manners.

Plus MORE!

Jim Gardner, KFOR Newschannel 4

Use the EXPO to 3 springboard a fun day

in downtown OKC. Oklahoma City Museum of Art, Myriad Gardens, the Water Taxis, Travis and Presley the American Banjo winner of The Greatest American Dog Museum.... There’s always Contest on CBS something going on in downtown OKC and Bricktown.

2 Door Prizes and giveaways!

FREE! Plus you could “bag” some great 1 It’s discounts and specials from exhibitors. Think of it as your “summer saver” event.

Rumble and Thunder Bus: Courtesy of Thunder.

42

entertainment, including the 4 Awesome Sugar-Free All Stars band, KFOR’s Chopper

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Sunday, April 18 • Noon - 5pm th

Downtown OKC Sheraton Hotel Pavilion One North Broadway (north of Cox Convention Center)

Enjoy family entertainment on the EXPO stage!

At Oklahoma’s Summer Adventure EXPO:

• The Sugar Free All Stars

• Affordable concession food available

• Rumble and the Thunder Girls • Travis Brorsen and the amazing Presley (winner of The Great American Dog contest • Jim Gardner, helicopter pilot from KFOR, NewsChannel 4 • Jonathan Meyer, professional magician Co-sponsored by:

• Learn about Summer Camps • Discover Oklahoma Destinations

• Enjoy Hands-on Activities, Demonstrations, Entertainment, Giveaways & Prizes

Parents & kids love it!

“Wonderful EXPO!!! Found such a variety of enormous information for the summer. So glad we attended.”

— Kris Ryan Limited number of booths still available.

Call Today!

Details at MetroFamilyMagazine.com or call 405.340.1404

Come explore art techniques and media on our beautiful acreage!

Summer Day Camps for children 3 yrs old - 6th grade

Register early space is limited call for brochure

3300 SW 149th Street

(405) 691-6366

Child Care Resource & Referral

Call for child care information and free referral listings!

(405) 525-3111 Serving children & families in central Oklahoma since 1972

www.rainbowfleet.org

Layaway PLans

40 % off sale

$99 Delivery & Installation exp. 2/28/10

Showroom inside Jump!Zone S.W. 104th & Western

www.okcplaysets.com 200-1691 44

Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All Baby Books

For All Ages

The Paper Bag Princess

by Robert Munsch, Illustrated by Michael Martchenko (Annick Press, board book, $6.95)

Beloved Bible Stories

by Rhona Davis, Illustrated

by Maria Cristina Lo Cascio (David C. Cook, hardcover, $16.99)

The tale of a princess who, although faced with adversity, saves the day and wins the prize.

A charmingly-illustrated tale of strength for princesses of all ages.

Simplified versions of popular Bible stories for readers of all ages. Good for children learning to read or for parents to read aloud to their children.

Grades PreK-2 Waddle

by Rufus Butler Seder (Workman Publishing, hardcover, $12.95) Part of the “Scanimation” series of picture books, this book features seeminglymoving pictures and fun descriptions that will have your kids waddling, scampering, prancing and slithering like the animals in the book.

Grades 2 and up The Silver Spoon for Children Adapted and written by Amanda Grant, Illustrated by Harriet Russell (Phaidon Press, hardcover, $19.95) The best way to engage kids in eating healthy food is to get them involved in the preparation. This cookbook is filled with photos and illustrations that will engage children in their own culinary adventures.

Grades 5 and up Pick Me Up Edited by David Roberts (DK, softcover, $19.99) Do you have a budding trivia buff in the making?

This book is chock-a-block full of randomly connected information. Great for kids who have a hard time unplugging from the internet, this book is like surfing the web for interesting information.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Books for Adults Instant Bargains

by Kimberly Danger (Sourcebooks, softcover, $12.99) The founder of frugal mom website mommysavers.com presents a guide to saving cash, time and sanity. A great kitchen companion with tips on shopping and cooking for less.

How to be an Everyday Philanthropist

by Nicole Bouchard Boles (Workman Publishing, softcover, $10.95) Wish it were easier to make a difference in the world?

It can be! Let this be your handbook for making a difference in the world, starting from right where you are. Tips on using what you have to make a difference will inspire you to start.

The Mom’s Guide to Growing Your Family Green

by Terra Wellington (St Martins, softcover, $16.95) Are you interested in making your family more eco-friendly but don’t know where to start? This guide will provide a good starting point to motivate you, whether you are just starting out on the eco-friendly path or you’re looking for further changes to make.

Find more book reviews at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ Oklahoma-Reads

A supportive, therapeutic resource for young people with communication challenges and their families.

At Speechworks, we work tirelessly to provide our clients with the most caring, up-to-date, and family-involvement therapies for our clients. We’ve even developed a mock community, where kids can learn to play to talk and talk to play!

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Accepting Most Insurance Programs (for children 2+ and adults) Medicaid Accepted

• 100% Sleep Dentistry, IV Conscience Sedation • Preventive Dentistry for Children • Lumineers/Implants •And Much More

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See our website for more details or stop by for a tour.

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April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

45

Dear Teacher Q&A With the Experts Avoiding Homework Battles Question: How can I avoid the nightly homework battle with my second-grader? There has got to be an easier way! – Seeking Peace

Answer: Most homework battles occur over the time it is to be started. This needs to be set in stone. A contract between parent and child can resolve most homework battles.

Find a contract on our website (also shown at right) under the Skill Builders section of the Resources category. If you decide to use a contract, we recommend that you include very few terms in the beginning, and add more as needed.

Beyond using a homework contract, make it a point to give help only when it is requested.

You don’t want to have homework battles harm the relationship between you and your child. Try to settle this issue now before it becomes a running battle over the years.

An example of the homework contract found on the Dear Teacher website.

Post in a prominent place.

THE FAMILY HOMEWORK CONTRACT __________________ and _________________ have mutually agreed to the terms of the (student)

(parent)

following homework contract to take effect on__________________________________.

Homework Study Schedule Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

__________ to __________ __________ to __________ __________ to __________ __________ to __________ __________ to __________ __________ to __________ __________ to __________

Student will study at least _____minutes on the indicated days. If the student does not have assignments, he/she will review for tests, work ahead, redo past assignments, or read material related to classes. Students will need to increase their study time when faced with long and/or difficult assignments.

Special Contract Terms (optional) Both student and parent will initial the terms that are to be followed. __________All homework is to be done in the __________________________room. __________No phone calls will be allowed during homework time. __________Homework will not be done in front of the TV. Loud music will not be played. __________The computer will only be used to work directly on assignments. No Web surfing! __________Parent will not remind students when it is time to start homework. __________Parent will not offer homework help or advice unless it is requested. __________All homework and school materials are to be placed in a backpack at the end of each homework session. __________Contract will be reviewed on __________to decide if any terms need to be changed. __________(Additional term)_____________________________________________________ _________Failure by the student or parent to follow all contract terms will result in a penalty of ___________________________________________________________________ __________Following terms of the contract for a period of __________will result in an award of ____________________________________________________________________ Signed_________________________(parent) ______________________________(student)

Kindergarten Social Skills Question: How can I be sure that my rather shy preschooler has the social skills he needs to enter Kindergarten?

– Need to Know Answer: Keep in mind that some children are simply shyer than others. It can be counterproductive to push such children into social situations that make them uncomfortable. Unless your child’s shyness is preventing him from enjoying being with other children, his shyness is not likely to be a problem in Kindergarten.

Many skills are important in determining if your child is ready for Kindergarten.

The ability to get along with others is certainly one of them. On the next find, we have included an Education Resources Information Center checklist that you may use to observe how well he is doing in forming social skills. If he demonstrates few of the traits on this checklist, he might need a few strategies to build more satisfying

Treat your child to an experience that’s unforgettable! A fun-filled, educational, and bonding experience with the “Wonderments of a Horse”. Each week-long camp offers new action-packed curriculum, ending with a prideful Horse Show & Awards Ceremony.

Summer Riding Camps

• Fun, Educational Week-Long Summer Camps • Monday thru Friday 10:00 am to 2:00 pm • Great for Ages: 6 - 13 • New Instructor & New Programs

Camp Cost

$195 /child

Choose from these Available Camp Dates: June 28 - July 2 July 5 - July 9 July 12 - July 16 July 19 - July 23 July 26 – July 30 August 9 - August 15

(Sessions fill fast, so call now.)

• Award-Winning Equestrian Facility since 1963 • Grooming, tacking, safety, horse chores, crafts, games, riding lessons & more!

• Friday Afternoon “Horse Show & Awards Ceremony “

For More Info, or to Register Contact: Counselor, Terry: 245-0110 or Main Barn: 340-3432 2200 NW 192nd Street (SW Corner of Danforth & Penn) Edmond, OK 73012 CrossCreekStablesOKC.com

46

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

relationships with other children. If he has attended a preschool program, how well he has handled the social aspects should give you a good idea of how well he will handle Kindergarten.

• • • •

Social Skills Checklist Does your child have well-developed social skills? Yes, if he: • Approaches others positively. • Expresses wishes and preferences clearly. • Asserts his own rights and needs appropriately; gives reasons for actions and positions. • Is not easily intimidated by bullies. • Expresses frustrations and anger effectively without escalating disagreements or harming others. • Gains access to ongoing groups in various situations. • Makes relevant contributions to ongoing activities. • Takes turns fairly easily.

Shows interest in others.

Negotiates and compromises with others appropriately.

Does not draw inappropriate attention to himself.

Interacts non-verbally (smiles, waves, nods) with other children.

Dear Teacher is written by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts. Do you have a question? Send it to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or visit DearTeacher.com.

Are you a child care provider who would like to earn a CDA?

Scholars for Excellence in Child Care has a Pathway for you! t 5 SBJOJOH GPS UIF $%" $SFEFOUJBM t 4DIPMBSTIJQ GPS &BSMZ &EVDBUJPO 1BUIXBZ UP $%" QSPHSBN GPS UIPTF XIP RVBMJGZ t "WBJMBCMF BU MPDBM UFDIOPMPHZ DFOUFST BOE POMJOF

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An Exceptional Education A Classical Christian school using a blended model of home and classroom instruction.

Enrollment for Fall 2010 for Grades Pre-Kindergarten through 11 begins March 1.

To learn more about Veritas Classical Academy, call us at: (405) 644-4280 (405) 644-4281 (405) 644-4283 (405) 644-4283

Main School Number Grammar School Office Upper School Office Admissions

Our mailing address is: Veritas Classical Academy P.O. Box 720426 Norman, OK 73070 Email us at: admissions@veritasnorman.org Or visit us at: www.veritasnorman.org

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

47

The Alert Parent Tips for Making Summer Camp Plans!

A

s a child, I started attending summer camps by the time I was eight. Most summers, I attended at least two camps or sessions. It didn’t matter to me whether I brought a friend or not, I had fun at camp. For my daughter, Addy, it was different. She had no desire to go. I decided to take a relaxed approach: “When she is ready, she’ll ask.”

home. My friend made her stick it out, but not without tears of her own. It can be daunting to try something new, like an overnight summer camp, but a fear of the unknown is never a good reason not to try something. My friend’s child learned an important lesson that summer in dealing with a challenging situation.

Last year, at the age of 12, Addy decided that she was ready. So we began searching for the ideal place for her. We looked in Oklahoma and surrounding states and found many good options—some expensive and some moderately priced. Because we started late, however, most camps were full. As my own plans started to evolve for the summer, I realized how convenient it would be if we could find an in-state camp. I suggested we check out one of the camps I regularly attended. We did; they had space and the price was more than reasonable. The deal was made.

If your child has yet to experience camp, you might want to consider it. The majority of children, mine included, have wonderful camp experiences. A study done by the American Camp Association (ACA) surveyed more than 5,000 families who had attended 80 ACA-accredited camps to evaluate the experience from the perspective of parents and children. In most cases, the parents and children reported significant growth in self-esteem, independence, leadership, friendship skills, social comfort, peer relationships, a sense of adventure and exploration, environmental awareness, values and spirituality.

Although very comfortable with the choice, I must confess I fretted some. Last summer, a good friend’s child wrote heart-wrenching letters about wanting and needing to come

There are other reasons to consider sending your child to camp. According to Dr. Bruce Muchnick, a licensed psychologist who works extensively with day and resident

Hall

Enrichment, Academic, & Athletic Camps For All Ages!

SUMMER at the

campers, “Camp is a learning experience.”

Dr. Muchnick explains that being in a new environment and away from the familiar “provides an opportunity for your child to explore a world bigger than his/her neighborhood and a chance for you and your child to practice ’letting go.’” He claims that “letting go” is important to develop autonomy and a strong sense of self.

The ACA (ACAcamps.org) offers more advice: 1. Make joint decisions: Include your child in the selection process. Ask your child to pack with your help.

2. Talk openly about fears and concerns: Being afraid to be away from home is common, especially if it is the first camp experience. Share your “first-time-fromhome” experiences with your camper.

Talk to them about what they can do when and if they feel sad or lonely.

3. Help them have realistic expectations: Explain to your child the real purpose of camp, which is to relax, have fun and enjoy. It’s not about winning the biggest trophy or prize or mastering every task.

Talk about how a typical day will include fun activities, but also some chores like making a bed or keeping your bunk tidy.

If your child has never attended camp, you could always select camps with shorter durations. Addy’s camp last year ran for one week.

After hearing all the camp tales from my daughter post-trip, I am happy to report that it was all good! She can’t wait to return.

Helpful hint: When trying to figure out how to pack Addy’s camp supplies and clothes, I asked a friend if she had a trunk I could borrow. She told me, “Don’t do that. Instead, purchase a plastic chest of drawers. When transporting, tape the drawers shut.” This solution was ideal and made all of Addy’s key items easy to reach. You might want to check with the camp staff before making this decision.

Allyn Evans (TheAlertParent.com) is a published author, professional speaker and consultant residing in Stillwater.

Learn more at

HERITAGE HALL 2010 1800 NORTHWEST 122ND STREET OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73120 • 405.749.3002

Register online at www.heritagehall.com 48

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ the-alert-parent

Plan your best summer ever at Summer Adventure EXPO!

You and your family will have a blast at MetroFamily's upcoming expo, designed to give guests information about summer camps, activities and Oklahoma attractions through vendor booths and the entertainment on the stage. This year's event is scheduled for Sunday, April 18th from noon to 5pm.

Here's what you can expect: • Over 35 vendors showing off their summer activities and providing hands-on fun for the kids • Entertainment from Rumble and the Thunder Girls (of the NBA Thunder team); Travis and Presley (winners of the Greatest American Dog Contest on CBS); Jonathan Meyer, professional magician; Jim Gardner, KFOR NewsChannel Four helicopter pilot; and Sugar Free All-Stars!

Live Earth Oklahoma Festival & Party for the Planet

The Live Earth Oklahoma Festival will be held April 16-18 at Remington Park. As a part of this three-day festival, a special Party for the Planet event for children and families will be held across the street at the OKC Zoo on Saturday, April 17, 11am to 3pm. At the party, visitors will learn to care for the earth through activities and demonstrations. At 1:30, the Stroll for Water event will be held to educate participants about the impact of water scarcity on the environment. The walk costs $10 per person and includes Zoo admission and an event T-shirt.

Register for the walk and find out more about the festival at LiveEarthOklahoma.com.

• Affordable concession food • Giveaways and prizes

Photo © 2008, G CREATIVE.

Find details at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/oklahomasummer-adventure-expo. See you on the 18th!

The national tour of CATS opens April 8 at the Civic Center Music Hall for four performances only. There's no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theatre than with the magic, mystery and memory of CATS. For tickets and information, call 800-869-1451 or visit CelebrityAttractions.com.

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

49

Quick reference Weekly Events American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, BanjoMuseum.org

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books (Danforth & Bryant, Edmond), Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202.

City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, CityArtsCenter.org

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), 11am-3pm every Saturday. Ages 3 and up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, EdmondFineArts.com

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) 4:30-8pm every Tuesday and Thursday. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma

FREE StoryTime at Gymboree Penn Square, first Friday of every month, 10am. 842-7540.

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, OklahomaHeritage.com

FREE Kid's Zumba for children 8 and up at the Moore Public Library each Thursday at 4:30 pm. Preregistration required 793-4349.

Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, LittleRiverZoo.com

Silly Sundays at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) every Sunday, 1-6pm. Free face painting with paid admission or craft purchase.

340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC 297-3995, MyriadGardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, NationalCowboyMuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, OKAquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, okcmoa.org

Parents Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) every Friday, 6-10pm. Ages 4 and up. Evening includes crafts, pizza, and organized playground games. $25. Reservations required.

340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

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

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

842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

Family Arts Studio at Gymboree of Norman is held the third Saturday, 11 am-noon. Arts & crafts for children 18 mos-5 years. $5 per child. Reservations required, 307-8454. GymboreeClasses.com.

Saturday Morning Cartoon Cruises every Saturday morning through May include classic cartoons, games, and snacks. Visit okrivercruises.com for departure times and locations. $12 adults, $8 for children 6-12, FREE children under 6. Also, public cruises daily every Wednesday through Sunday. Online ticket purchase recommended.

The American Banjo Museum presents live acoustic music entertainment every Saturday afternoon from 3-5pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

Ongoing Events April 2-May 2 The musical Thoroughly Modern Millie onstage at Guthrie's Pollard Theatre. Peformance times vary; tickets $25, discounts for students and groups.

282-2800, thepollard.org.

Through April 4 Grasslands & Waterways Exhibit features the art of Sapulpa painter Julie Miller on display in the Governor's Gallery, located on the 2nd Floor of the State Capitol. Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm. 521-2931.

April 9-June 26 William Christenberry: Beginnings at [Artspace] at Untitled includes drawings, paintings, assemblages, and sculptures. 815-9995, artspaceatuntitled.org.

OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, OklahomaCityNationalMemorial.org

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Saturdays, 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, and special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, OKCZoo.com

Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center. Guided park tour and nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm.

Reservations and a fee of $2 are required. 755-0676.

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. For all ages. Held every Wednesday of the month. 231-8650.

Oklahoma History Center 2401 N Laird Ave, OKC 522-5248, OklahomaHistoryCenter.org

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30am-1pm. 231-8650.

April 23-May 22

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu

FREE Storytimes at the Norman Library. For toddlers, Monday and Thursday, 9:30am. For preschoolers, Monday 10:30am, Tuesdays, 2pm.

Family storytime Tuesdays, 7pm.

Jason Hackenwerth at the City Arts Center features colorful sculptures that at once seem alien, botanical and reminiscent of sea creatures—and made entirely from balloons. Opening reception April 23, 5:30pm.

Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, ScienceMuseumOK.org

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 10:30am. Activities for children ages 3-5 with adult held each Tuesday.

Through April 30

Do you have an event for our calendar?

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9 - 13. The “Gang” works on conservation projects in Martin Park Saturdays from 2-5pm throughout the school year.

755-0676.

Send an email to

Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com 50

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

Through April 11 New Frontiers: Series for Contemporary Art at the OKC Museum of Art features an exhibit by Jason Peters titled Anti.Gravity.Material.Light.

Through April 16 Grin and Win Photo Safari celebrating the opening of the new Children's Zoo at the OKC Zoo.

The Artwork of Douglas Shaw Elder and Elyse Bogart on display at the Firehouse Art Center in Norman. Monday-Friday 9:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. 329-4523, normanfirehouse.com.

Breathing Room by Karen Orr exhibit at the In Your

April S M T W T F S Eye Studio & Gallery features works exploring nature through a variety of mediums. Opening reception held April 2, 6-10pm. 525-2161, inyoureyegallery.com.

production, including blocking, sets, costumes, scene study and an introduction to auditions. Ages 3-12.

Mondays 11am-noon, Tuesdays 4:30-5:30pm.

Through May 2

Through May 30

Stories in Fiber and Clay: Baskets and Ceramics of the Southwest at Norman's Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features baskets and ceramics produced by Native Americans from the Southwest region.

The Dorothy and Herbert Vogel Collection: 50 Works for 50 States on exhibit at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.

Through July 11

Through May 9

Alfred Ossorio: Gifts from the Ossorio Foundation exhibit at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art features 11 works by the artist from 1949-1984.

Creative Eye: Selections from the Carol Beesley Collection of Photographs at the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art features works by many important figures in the history of modern photography.

April Events 1-3

Revisiting the New Deal: Government Patronage and Fine Art, 1933-1943 exhibit features painting, sculpture and prints at Norman's Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art.

Bonita wa Wa Calachaw Nunez: Selected Works on exhibit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Tour de Quartz 2010 exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art presents art produced by visual arts students from the 2009 Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain.

Through May 13 Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma features artwork from Oklahoma youth celebrating cultural diversity, human rights and global peace through the arts. 359-0369, respectdiversity.org.

Through May 18 Oklahoma Children’s Theatre Acting Classes help students learn the process of acting and play

Metropolitan Library System mls.lib.ok.us Belle Isle, 5501 N Villa, 843-9601 Bethany, 3510 N Mueller, 789-8363

Klassy Kidz Consignment Event in the New City Center in Moore provides gently used children's apparel, toys, and accessories. Thursday and Friday 9am-9pm, Saturday 9am-2pm. klassykidzevent.com.

The Guitar: Art, Artists and Artisans exhibit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Learn about the evolution of the guitar.

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

Side by Side By Sondheim at Norman’s Sooner Theatre features music from A Little Night Music, Follies, Gypsy, Company and West Side Story. Tickets $25 and up. 8pm. 321-9600, soonertheatre.com.

2 • Friday

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

Homeschool Art: Art Appreciation at the OKC Museum of Art is a art class specifically for homeschool students. Materials provided. Ages 6-13, 10-11:30am. $45 members, $55 nonmembers.

Eat at Panera Day supporting the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. The Panera Bread at 6800 N Western Ave will donate a percentage of total sales to benefit the museum. 11am-2pm.

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

2-3 Sleeping Beauty presented by the Tulsa Ballet at the Civic Center Music Hall. Friday 7pm, Saturday 2pm.

297-2264, okcciviccenter.org.

Wright Library, 2101 Exchange, 235-5035

Pioneer Library System pls.lib.ok.us Blanchard, 300 N Main, 485-2275 McLoud, 133 N Main, 964-2960 Moore, 225 S Howard, 793-5100

weekly E-Updates keep you in-the-know MetroFamilyMagazine.com/ subscribe-to-e-update

Newcastle, 705 NW Tenth, 387-5076 Noble, 204 N 5th, 872-5713 Norman, 225 N Webster, 701-2600 Purcell, 919 N Ninth, 527-5546 Shawnee, 101 N Philadelphia, 275-6353 Tecumseh, 114 N Broadway, 598-5955

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

51

FREE The First Friday gallery walk held Friday 6-10pm, Saturday noon-6pm. in the historic Paseo district. Features over 60 artists and 17 galleries within walking distance. 525-2688, thepaseo.com.

3 • Saturday Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western History Museum will feature Nicodemus Annie and Her History Trunk. 10am-noon.

Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz vs. Jacksonville at the Cox Convention Center. 7:05 pm. okcyarddawgz.com.

Other home games this month held 4/17.

FREE Oklahoma Composers Salon Concert at Sonder Music Dance, & Art in Norman features music by local composers. 8pm. 474-9734, sondermusic.com.

3-4 Museums on Us: Bank of America Free Weekend at the OKC Museum of Art and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum provides FREE admission for Bank of America credit/debit card holders.

4 • Sunday Handbuilt Pottery at the OKC Museum of Art teaches basic pottery techniques to kids 10-13. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. 2-4pm.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota at the Ford Center. 6pm. Tickets, NBA.com/Thunder. Other homes games this month held 4/7, 9, 14.

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

5-6 Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History celebrates the theme "Weaving Words, Connecting Lives" and features PreK-12th grade students competing in spoken word, poster, and music categories in their native languages. 10am-5pm.

6 • Tuesday

price of one at the Oklahoma Aquarium. Held every Tuesday in April after 5pm.

Science Under the Stars at the Oklahoma Aquarium will focus on Earth Day and the planet's water resources. 6:30pm.

Homeschool Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium offers special admission prices and classes for homeschooling families and groups. $7 students, $10 adults. Preregistration required.

FREE Are you Prepared? Disaster Preparedness seminar for adults, 6:30-7:30pm at the Belle Isle Library.

A representative of the American Red Cross discusses ways to be prepared for disasters. Held at other Metro Library locations throughout the month; see website for schedule.

FREE Marilyn Horne, legendary mezzo soprano, performs at the OU School of Music's Pitman Recital Hall, 7pm. Details, 325-2081, music.ou.edu/calendar.

Also held 4/9.

7 • Wednesday Side-By-Side presented by the OKC Philharmonic features Oklahoma Youth Orchestra members playing next to their Philharmonic counterparts in a familyfriendly concert. 7:30-8:45pm.

7-30 Treasure Island presented by Oklahoma Children's Theatre on the campus of Oklahoma City University involves audience participation in an adaptation of the familiar classic. Wednesdays through Fridays 11am, Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm. $7 adults, $5 children.

8 • Thursday The Science of Bubbles at Science Museum Oklahoma explores the world of physics and chemistry that combine to make bubbles. 10am-2pm.

Harlem Globetrotters at the Ford Center. 7pm.

Tickets $17 and up, 800-745-3000, okfordcenter.com The Oklahoma City RedHawks open the 2010 season at 7:05 pm at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark against the Albuquerque Isotopes. 218-1000, oklahomaredhawks. com. Other home games this month 4/9-15, 24-27, 29, 30.

Two for Tuesday Nights offers two admissions for the

8-10 CATS at the Civic Center Music Hall features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless melodies. Tickets, 800-869-1451, celebrityattractions.com.

9 • Friday Norman's 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, and Campus Corner. 6-10pm. 360-1162, 2ndfridaynorman.com.

Marcia Ball in Concert at Norman's Sooner Theatre features R&B, blues and ballads. 8pm. Tickets $35 and up. 321-9600, soonertheatre.org.

9-11 Film Screening - The Secret of Kells (Ireland, Tomm Moore, Director, 2009) at the OKC Museum of Art 's Noble Theater combines magic, fantasy and Celtic mythology. $8 adults, $6 students, $5 members. Friday & Saturday at 5:30 and 8 pm, Sunday at 2pm.

10 • Saturday Frontier City's 2010 Season opens celebrating more than 50 years of fun. Hours vary daily. 478.2140, frontiercity.com.

Identi-Kid Days with Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation at Science Museum Oklahoma with fingerprinting by OSBI Fingerprint Technicians.

10am-2pm.

Gallery Stories Animals in Art at the OKC Museum of Art explores unique themes connecting art and literature. FREE with paid museum admission. 2pm.

Garden Stone Workshop at Unpluggits Playstudio for ages 6 and up. $15. 6-8pm. Preregister, 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert / Jam features three bands in a familyoriented environment. Oklahoma Country Western Museum, 3925 SE 29, Del City. $6, children 12 and under FREE. 6:30-9:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org.

FREE Redbud Classic Kids Run at Nichols Hills Plaza (near 63rd and Western). Register between 10-11am; run begins at noon. Pizza from Little Caesar's served after. Enjoy hands-on activities provided by Oklahoma Safe Kids Coaltion. redbud.org.

Sponsorships

Events Print Through MetroFamily, there are In many ways to reach the household CEO (aka Mom) Resource Directories Call us today! 340-1404 Sponsorships • Marketing experts agree that 85% of household consumer spending is controlled by MOMS. Events •Resource 89% of MetroFamily Directories readers are MOMS.* MetroFamilyMagazine.com In Print *

* from “Trillion Dollar Moms: Marketing to a New Generation of Mothers” by Maria Bailey and Bonnie Ulman (Dearborne, 2005); Parenting Publications of America, 2007 MetroFamily reader survey.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

FREE National Summit on Children and the Outdoors webcast hosted by the National Wildlife Federation. 11am-12:30pm. online.nwf.org/botwebcast.

FREE Guthrie Art Walk, 4-9pm in historic downtown features shopping, activities and food samples.

260-2345, myspace.com/ guthrieartwalk.

11 • Sunday The Redbud Classic features 5K and 10K runs, bike tours, children's fitness run, 2 mile fun run/walk, and baby stroller derby, 5K wheelchair event and more to benefit Safe Kids Oklahoma. redbud.org.

Still-Life Drawing at the OKC Museum of Art teaches kids ages 6-9 basic still-life techniques. $10 members, $15 non-members. 2-4pm.

Make Your Own Lampshade workshop at Unpluggits Playstudio for ages 9 and up. $25. 4-6pm. Preregister, 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

The Sutton Faculty Concert Series presents Accademia Filarmonica in the Sharp Concert Hall, 3pm. $8, $5 OU faculty, students and seniors.

325-2081, music.ou.edu.

FREE The Serenity of Bach with pianist Wayne McEvilly at the Downtown Library. Concert is part of the Ernestine Hill Clark Concert Series. 2-3pm, all ages.

12 • Monday Blood Drive and Blood Marrow Donor Drive sponsored by Junior League of OKC, Women of the South and Edmond Women's Club. Edmond Downtown Community Center, UMB Bank at Penn Square Mall and South OKC Chamber of Commerce (701 W I-240), 10am-2pm.

13 • Tuesday Read Across America 2010: Reading Rocks! at the OKC Zoo. Animal stations, story times in the new Children’s Zoo and a free book for the first 1,000 children 11 and under. 9am-1pm.

Science Stories at Science Museum Oklahoma is a special story-time experience FREE with museum admission. 10:30am, 2:30pm. April’s topic is the moon.

FREE Respect Diversity Exhibit Gala at Science Museum Oklahoma features art by Oklahoma students and the winners of the statewide art and poetry contest, registration required. 5pm. 359-0369, rdfrdf@cox.net.

Evening with a Curator at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features a variety of live reptiles and a talk entitled "Listening to Lizards: Natural History in Perspective" by curator of reptiles Laurie Vitt.

7 pm. FREE with museum admission.

Rowan in concert at Oklahoma City Community College features Celtic / World Music. 7pm. 682-7576, occc.edu/cp.

15 • Thursday Mini Mona Lisa art class at the OKC Museum of Art celebrates the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci. $7.50 members, $10 nonmembers. 4-5pm.

2010 Rock & Worship Roadshow at the Ford Center includes MercyMe and other Christian music groups.

7 pm. $10 general admission tickets at the door.

okfordcenter.com.

FREE Purity Day at the State Capitol sponsored

by Kids Eagerly Endorsing Purity (KEEP) includes speakers and information for teens. 9:30am-noon.

787-7744.

Sacred Heart Spring Festival features a performance by the Sugar Free Allstars band, games, cupcake walk, activities and crafts and fried onion hamburgers. $5 per person ($20 per family max, age 2 and under free) includes 20 game tickets. Onion burger, chips, and drink dinner for $3. 5:30-7:30pm, El Reno's Sacred Heart Gym, 210 N Evans.

15-25 Driving Miss Daisy at Lyric Theatre on the Plaza.

Tickets, $40. Tuesday-Thursday 7:30pm, Friday and Saturday 8pm, Saturday 2pm, Sunday 3pm. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

16 • Friday Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens a kid-friendly film in the museum's Great Hall. Galleries open 5:30-7pm, film begins at 7pm. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 and under FREE. Members receive $1 discount. Movie title to be announced.

Pizza Pillow Party at Unpluggits Playstudio for girls 6 and up includes face painting, nail art, craft and pizza dinner. $25. 6-9pm. Preregister, 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

Community-wide Murder Mystery Whodunit in Moore. Packets available from the Moore Public Library 4/5. Follow clues to solve the crime, finale event held at Old School Business Center 5:30-7pm.

Details online, justsoyouknow.org.

16-18

Serving award-winning breakfasts and lunches since 1980

11 convenient Metro locations! www.JimmysEgg.com

Dance Classes For All Ages

Summer Camps & Classes

Enroll • Ages 2 ½ and Up T oday!

• Small Class Sizes • Professional Floating Dance Floors • University Trained Instructors

Velocity Dance Center

721-8807 • velocitydancecenterokc.com

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Suite A-11 • OKC Now enrolling for Summer Camps, Summer & Fall Classes

FREE Live Earth Eco-Festival at Remington Park is an environmentally-oriented festival, famer's market and ecoseminar. liveearthoklahoma.com. See page 49 for more information.

17 • Saturday

Disco rates bunted May 1 efore 5, 201 0

It’s time to register for Mad Science 2010 Summer Camps!

FREE Child Abuse Prevention/Family Safety Day at Shawnee's Woodland Park includes guest speakers, live music, car seat safety checks and child ID fingerprinting. 10am-3pm. kelseybriggsfoundation.org.

Choose between five awesome camps, targeted specifically to capture the interest of the most discerning camper

Earth Fest 2010 at Martin Park Nature Center includes Terry the Trashasaurus, biologist-led fish dips in the creek and can stomp. 10am-2pm. 755-0676.

• Secret Agent Lab: 2nd-6th Grades • Science Adventure Quest: 2nd-6th Grades • The World Around Me: Pre-K-1st Grade and more

Party for the Planet at the OKC Zoo teaches kids about the importance of caring for our planet with information stations, a scavenger hunt, and zookeeper chats. 11am-3pm.

Live Earth's Kids and Family 1 Mile Stroll for Water at the OKC Zoo will focus on the impact of water scarcity on the environment and animals. 1:30pm. $10

For locations & dates, or to register, please call us or check out our website

405-285-9643

www.madscience.org/okc

344 Santa Fe Ave., Edmond

April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

53

per person includes zoo admission and t-shirt.

OK Gazette’s Dachshund Dash at the Cox Center benefits the Central Oklahoma Humane Society. 1pm. $1 admission. doxiedash.com.

and Western History Museum will feature early photography equipment from UCO professor Mark Zimmerman. 6:30-8pm.

Ghosts of Historic Fort Reno Tour at Fort Reno includes a lantern light tour, tales and urban legends of haunted buildings, lost treasure and more. 7 pm. $6 adults, $5 children 5-12. Reservations required.

262-3987.

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum's 15th Anniversary Memorial Concert at OKC's First Christian Church features voices from the Oklahoma Master Chorale and the First Christian Church Cathedral Choir. 2pm. 235.3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org.

20-25

Beethoven's Ninth: Ode to Joy presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall.

Recommended for ages 10 and up. 8-10pm. Tickets, $12 and up.

Guy Fraser Harrison Academy's Oklahoma Youth Orchestra performs at Edmond North High School (215 W Danforth). $5, $10 families, $2 students.

232-1199 or info@harrisonacademy.org for details.

Evening EcsApe at the OKC Zoo is a dinner and silent auction in the zoo's Great EscApe. Tickets $50, must be 14 years or older to attend. 6-8:30pm.

Red Cross Babysitter Training for ages 11 and up at the Village Lirary. 9am-4pm, $10 per student. Lunch and materials provided.

Space is limited; call 755-0710 for details.

FREE Month of the Military Child celebration on Tinker AFB for military families. Bowling tournament for kids, face painting, peting zoo and family-friendly activities. noon-5pm. 734-6474.

17-18 FREE 33rd Annual Stillwater Arts Festival on Main Street in downtown Stllwater. Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. 747-8070, stillwater.org.

18 • Sunday

19 •Monday Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum's Annual Remembrance Ceremony, on the grounds of the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial. 9am. FREE admission to the museum from 10am-5pm. 235.3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org.

Organic Gardening in Small Spaces presented by the Central Oklahoma Chapter of the Holistic Moms Network. Moore Public Library, 6:30pm. See page 11 for more information.

19-23 Harn Homestead Land Run Reenactment features school kids from across the state reenacting the historic Land Run of 1889. 11:30am. $5. 235-4058, harnhomestead.com.

MetroFamily's Summer Adventure EXPO at the Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel in downtown OKC. Noon-5pm. See page 49 for details.

20 • Tuesday

Kids for Kindness Earth Day Festival at Norman's Reaves Park includes Earth-friendly educational activities. Noon-6pm. 366-7229, ci.norman.ok.us/ parks/kids-kindness.

Tuesdays At Sundown at the National Cowboy

The Italian Table: Family Style Cuisine cooking class with Chef Eric Smith at [Artspace] at Untitled. $75. 6pm.

815-8995, artspaceatuntitled.org.

FREE 2010 Festival of the Arts in downtown OKC at the Festival Plaza, Stage Center and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Visual artists, perfromances and food. 11am-9pm Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-6pm.Sunday.

270-4848, artscouncilokc.com.

21 • Wednesday Miss Mannerless's Tea Party at Unpluggits Playstudio is a hilarious look at learning good manners.

FREE with paid admission or craft purchase. 4:30pm.

340-7584, unpluggits.com.

The Former Texas Playboys—Music of the 1930s: Western Swing at the Sooner Theatre in Norman.

Presented in conjunction with the exhibition Revisiting the New Deal: Government Patronage and the Fine Arts, 1933-1943 on exhibit at Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art. Tickets $20. 321-9600, soonertheatre.com.

22 • Thursday Celebrate Earth Day at Science Museum Oklahoma.

The first 100 people to visit the GadgetTrees exhibit will receive a free Oak sapling. 9am-5pm.

FREE How Do I Become a Forensic Scientist lecture by Dr. Dwight Adams of the Oklahoma Forensic Science Institute at Science Museum Oklahoma. 7pm.

FREE Big Read Finale features a screening of the Maltese Falcon at the Warren Theater in Moore (I-35 Service Road). Limited seating; tickets available at the Moore Public Library beginning 4/15.

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22-23 10th Annual OKC Memorial Health & Fitness Expo & Race presented by OU Physicians and the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau. Cox Convention Center. Noon-8pm. okcmarathon.com.

23-24 Norman's Annual 89'er Day Festivities includes parade at 10am, 89er Day Wagon Train Round-up and bluegrass music. norman89.com.

Family Fossil Field Trip at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History includes a trip to an invertebrate dig site in Oklahoma. For children 8 years and older with adult. $90 members, $105 nonmembers for one child and one adult. Each additional person $45 members, $55 nonmembers.

Farmer’s Markets in the Metro area Find a fresh bounty of produce at a Farmer’s Market near you! Most markets feature locally-grown produce and plants, arts and crafts, organic items, baked goods, meat and more.

•

Norman Farm Market opens for its 30th season on April 3. 8am-noon Saturdays and Wednesdays. 360.4721, clevelandcountyfair.org.

•

Edmond Spring Garden and produce Market opens April 17.

Held at Festival Market Place in downtown Edmond, west of 2nd and Broadway. Saturdays, 9am-1pm. 359-4630, edmondok. com.

•

Moore Old Town Farmer’sMarket in downtown Moore held Thursdays 4-8pm and Saturdays 8am-noon, opening in May. 793-5000, cityofmoore.com/community/farmersmarket

•

OSU-OKC Farmer’sMarket is held year round at the Horticulture Pavilion at 400 N Portland in OKC. Indoor market open Saturdays year-round from 10am-1pm; summer hours, 8am-1pm begin in late spring. 945-3358, osuokc.edu/farmersmarket.

•

OSU-OKC Thursday Farmer’sMarket, is held at the Glenbrook parking lot (NW 63rd between Western & Grand). Open 3-6pm.

945-3358, osuokc.edu/farmersmarket.

•

Yukon 100% Oklahoma Grown Farmer’sMarket is held on historic Route 66. Saturdays, 8am-noon from June-October. cityofyukonok.gov.

24 • Saturday 6th Annual Oklahoma National Guard Appreciation Day at the Oklahoma City Zoo. $1 admission with coupon for Guard members and dependents (coupons available at main gate; military ID required).

Community Pet Heath Fair hosted by Pet Medical Center of Edmond. Food, games, activities, samples and pet photos. 1001 W 15th, Edmond. 10am-2pm. pmcofedmond.com.

24-25 FREE 3rd Annual Norman Music Festival in historic Downtown East Main Street, Saturday night entertainment will be predominantly at indoor locations, and Sunday will feature the full-blown festival atmosphere complete with street closures and large outdoor stages. normanmusicfestival.com.

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April 2010 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

55

10th Annual Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum Memorial Marathon. Register to run, relay, walk or volunteer at okcmarathon.com. 6:30am.

235-3313, sw@oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org.

at the Warr Acres Library features a bilingual story & snack with Miss Alma and her puppets. 6:30-7:30pm, for ages 2½-5.

Registration required.

Drawing Outdoors art class at the OKC Museum of Art teaches kids ages 6-9 about cityscape drawing and basic perspective. $10 members, $15 nonmembers.

2-4pm.

30 • Friday

25-27 The Milk Mustache Mobile Tour is in town to celebrate the proclamation of “Milk the Moment Family Dinner Day” in OKC by Vice Mayor Pat Ryan.

Appearances held: Sunday 11am-1pm at the OKC Memorial Marathon; Monday, 11am-1pm at the OKC Zoo; Tuesday, 10am-noon at the Redhawks baseball game. whymilk.com.

27 • Tuesday I Know My Shapes art class at the OKC Museum of Art teaches kids ages 3-5 about shapes and postive/ negative space. $7.50 members/$10 nonmembers.

10-11am.

FREE Knit Wit Program at the Midwest City Library for all ages to learn to knit or crochet. 10am-noon; all supplies provided.

28-30 2010 Children's Behavioral Health Conference presented by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Embassy Suites Conference Center, Norman. 522-8300, odmhsas.org.

29 • Thursday

Family Night Out: Insectigations at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History includes basic insect identification, craft and pizza dinner. Geared for elementary-age children with an adult, but siblings welcome. $10 per person for members, $12 nonmembers.6-8:30pm.

April 30-May 1 2010 Oklahoma Home School Convention at the Cox Convention Center, 8:30am-6:30pm. ochec.com.

Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park includes crafts, pony rides and storytimes. 10am-4pm. $5 in advance, $7 at the gate. 350-8937, city of yukonok.gov.

April 30-May 2 FREE May Fair Arts Festival at Andrew's Park in Norman features more than 70 artisans and craftsmen, entertainment, children's crafts, and food. Friday and Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. norman. assistanceleague.org.

Downtown Edmond Arts Festival features over 100 artisans and fun activities for kids. Friday and Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. 249.9391, downtownedmondok.com.

May 1 FREE 12th Annual Moore Youth Summer Fun and Safety Fair at the Moore Community Center. 793-4332, cityofmoore.com.

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Oklahoma Autism Piece Walks & 5K hosted by Oklahoma Family Center for Autism, register at 7:30; Walk/5K at 9am. Bricktown Ballpark. piecewalk.com.

22nd Annual Fried Onion Burger Day Festival in downtown El Reno cooks up the largest onion burger.

Live entertainment, kid's games and classic car show.

262-8888, elrenoburgerday.com.

FREE Prague Kolache Festival on Main Street in downtown Prague offers dance, song, food, crafts, a parade, and carnival rides. 567-4866, praguekolachefestival.com.

FREE Guam: Culture and Celebration Day at the Choctaw Library, 2-4pm. Celebrate the history, customs, food and culture of Guam, an unincorporated U.S. Territory.

8th Annual Village Fair, 10am-4pm for all ages at the SW parking lot at Casady Square. Event supports the Village Library, and includes vendors and touch-a-truck activities for kids.

May 1-2 Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History's 10th Anniversary features FREE museum admission all weekend. Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1-5pm.

May 8 OKC March of Dimes March for Babies held at the state fairgrounds. 3 mile walk, register 8:30am, walk 9:30am. 943-1025, marchforbabies.org.

May 15 Norman March of Dimes March for Babies held at Andrews Park (corner of Webster & Daws). 2 mile walk, register 4pm, walk 5pm. 943-1025, marchforbabies.org.

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Hey, Metro Families!

We want to see your photos.

Submit shots of your family out and about in Oklahoma City and we’ll put them in our pages.

time at the Astra & Avery H. enjoy o.

Zo y Cit Oklahoma

Christy, Scott, Ty and Zach K., a Navy family stationed at Tinker AFB, pose in front of Scott’s mobile office.

Photo submission guidelines may be found at metrofamilymagazine. com/submit-your-photos. Tips for submitting photos: • High-resolution images (at least 400kb in size, not to exceed 5mb) are necessary for use in print.

• Please include the name of each person in the photo, your hometown and the time and location for the photo.

• Submitted photos will become property of MetroFamily and may be used in future publications or on metrofamilymagazine.com.

58

Addison G. hangs out at the Oklahoma City Zoo’s pla yground.

Ty K. at the playground at Earlywine Park in SW OK C.

Rebecca G. with daughter Addison at the Oklahoma City Zoo.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com April 2010

William M., Ethan M., Spencer F., Lauren F., Sydnee M., Langli D. and Everett D. enjoy the spring weather in downtown Oklahoma City.

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