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April 2011
Bike Safety Rid Home of Recalls Walk for Autism
Summer Activities Directory See Page 18 ©2011 Dominion Enterprises. All rights reserved.
Manuel A. Lopez, MD, FACS Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Lopez provides gentle, comprehensive care for all his Pediatric patients
Otoplasty- Ear pinning A 1 hour, out-patient procedure can make a world of difference in your child’s life! After
Before
FREE Initial Consultation 1314 E. Sonterra Blvd Suite 5104 San Antonio, TX 78258
210-495-LPS1 (5771) www.lopezplasticsurgery.com
2 Our Kids | April 2011
McTeggart Irish Dancers
Open House of San Antonio
April 10, 2011 @ 11:30am
•New classes forming •We perform at Weddings
Parties,Special Events,etc.
For more information call: 210-451-1884
April 2011 | Our Kids 3
CONTENTS
VOLUME 28 | NUMBER 4
April 2011 15
12
12 Put Bike Safety First and Make the Fun Last Spring is upon us and it is a perfect time to enjoy biking with your family. While kids enjoy riding bikes, not enough of them wear protective helmets, and many are unaware of cycling safety.
15 Know Your Recalled Products Baby rattles, cribs, high chairs, metal cars – just a few items on the list of recalled children’s products. It seems the only way to ensure the safety of such products is for the consumer to be aware.
17 Summer Discoveries for Every Age Warmer weather and brighter skies signal that summer is near. Parents who want to get a jumpstart on planning summer activities have a wide variety of options to consider.
17
DEPARTMENTS 6 On the Web – April Featured Web Content 8 Editor’s Note
Explaining Natural Disasters to Kids
32
CALENDAR Family Activities for April 34 Highlights 40 Family Theater
FYI
10 Autism Walk Organizers Hoping to Break World Record 11 Fitness in the Park
ADVERTISING 18 Summer Activities Directory
b.a.b.y.
31 b.a.b.y.
Best Advice for Baby & You 31 When a Drop of Infant Blood Can Save a Life
Your Kids in Our Kids 43 Spring Time and Easter
31 When a Drop of Infant Blood Can Save a Life Eleven days after Seth Morris was born, his parents received a phone call which rocked their world. Seth’s newborn screening blood test had come back from the state lab as abnormal.
Next Month Tailor-Made Summer Read how some parents are customizing summer activities for their kids.
On the Cover MOVING PICTURES by KELLEY RAMOTOWSKI
4 Our Kids | April 2011
JayZoMay Party Rentals & Entertainment
Reserve your Clown or Character Today! • clowns • magicians • dora • optimus prime • elmo • face painters • spongebob • mickey mouse • spiderman • batman • barney • Elvis • Marilyn Monroe • Obama and more! • themed moonbounces • tables and chairs cotton candy machines s Dj’ popcorn, • • • rent our brand new sno cone machine-polar pete
210-421-0309 jayzomay@gmail.com www.jayzomaypartyrentals.com
A-Z Music Therapy Stefanie Anderson Eckert, MM, MT-BC Board Certified Music Therapist
Behavioral and Neurologic Music Therapy for Children with AUTISM, and other Development or Medical Disabilities.
210.392.1277 smusicr1@yahoo.com www.a-zmusictherapy.com Building and rebuilding skills through music
Healthy Participants Needed! Dr. Michael Escamilla is conducting a study on Early Interventions for Bipolar Disorder & Schizophrenia in at-risk youth in San Antonio.
You may be eligible if: • You are between age 6-20 (Or have a child between age 6-20) • None of the child’s first degree relatives (mother, father, siblings) have ever been diagnosed with a substance use problem or mental illness IF YOU QUALIFY YOU WILL BE COMPENSATED CALL THE RECRUITMENT TEAM AT 210-270-1980
April 2011 | Our Kids 5
ON THE WEB
Download the free ScanLife app at www.2dscan.com on your smart phone and then scan the code to the right to view OurKidsSanAntonio.com on your mobile phone.
OurKidsSanAntonio.com
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Your Go-To Source for Parenting Information on the Web
Parenthood.com Your connection to parents like you! Our Kids San Antonio is part of the Parenthood.com family of websites, which offers you tips and resources to meet all your parenting needs. TM
We Help Families Grow
Spotlight
Conquer Clutter as a Family!
Spring cleaning can involve hours of simply clearing clutter from your home. And that can be pretty overwhelming if you take it on all by yourself. We provide some easy ways to get your whole family involved in organizing everyone’s belongings and purging the unnecessary “stuff” that surrounds you.
Win Spurs Tickets Go to our website for details on registering to win tickets to the San Antonio Spurs vs. Utah Jazz basketball game 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at the AT&T Center. Deadline to register is April 5.
Plus... • An easy-to-use digital edition of this month’s issue • A searchable Calendar of Family Events • Family-Friendly Business Directory • Sign up now for your free Our Kids San Antonio Weekly Update newsletter and get tips for your family on things to do, places to go and more. All conveniently delivered directly to your email box. Pregnancy & Parenting in the News – Our editor’s picks of daily news feeds bring you the most up-to-date information on all things parenting – from pregnancy to baby and child health, development and behavior. Take a look at parenthood.com. Check Out Our Parenting Blogs – Health, food, travel, humor, slice-of-life parenting experiences. Our bloggers keep you entertained and
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6 Our Kids | April 2011
Whether you seek practical tips or personal parenting tales, head online to parenthood.com/blogs.php and ourkidssanantonio.com and take your pick from seven bloggers – each with their own unique point of view on parenting and family life. Connect With Other Parents – Communicate with other moms and dads who are dealing with the same issues you are. Check out the forums, chats and community message boards at ourkidssanantonio.com and parenthood.com/communitycenter.php. It’s your parent-to-parent connection! Free Newsletter – Sign up at parenthood.com to receive our weekly email newsletter, Practical Parenting, with news, tips and trends on child rearing, family life and more.
Coming in May Childcare Preschool Finder
Birthday Party! Place in San Antonio! All Arcade games are free Play!
up to date with great information.
Our Kids 2011
Brighter Futures Learning Center
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$5.00 Open Play Tuesday through Friday
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The New Heaven for Birthday Parties Birthday Jumpers can enjoy these all day long! • 1st Trampoline Playground in Texas! • 10 Gigantic Trampolines! • 2 Awesome Dodgeball Courts! • Children Trampolines! • Basketball Trampoline Court! • 7 Private Party Rooms 30-70 person capacity! • 6 Huge Inflatable Jumpers! • Amazing Village for Toddlers! • Amazing Roller Coaster! (48” height limit)
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EDITOR’S NOTE
Explaining Natural Disasters to Kids Cynthia Ladson |
EDITOR
You’ve Got Mail Sign up for your free weekly email newsletter for Our Kids. You’ll get updates and tips on fun things to do with your family on the weekend, as well as helpful parenting advice. It’s easy. Register today at ourkidssanantonio.com.
8 Our Kids | April 2011
As we were preparing this issue of Our Kids, news reports of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan broke. What devastation, caused by yet another natural disaster. Pakistan, Haiti, hurricanes in Louisiana and other Gulf coast regions, flooding and tornadoes in this country’s Midwest and Northeast – the natural disasters we’ve seen or read reports of in recent years have been numerous. How do you explain these events to young children? Local child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Henry Polk with the Child Clarity Guidance Center offers a few suggestions. “If the kids are directly involved in the disaster I would recommend that parents keep things as structured as possible for the kids. The more structure, the less fear they will have. Strive to return to as normal of a routine as quickly as possible. However, sometimes during these types of events, kids will become clingy, not wanting to be separated from mom or dad or they may have nightmares,” Polk says, adding, “kids are very resilient and
with continued communication and reassurance can cope more efficiently,” says Polk. “If kids are not directly involved or impacted by the event, they are often inundated by events via the news media which often affect them, and it is important to open the lines of communication with your children by letting them talk about the events that have taken place. Explain the events to them in a very general way, using easy-tounderstand terms. Don’t give too many details, and explain that sometimes bad things happen,” says Polk. He says he also suggests parents find a way for the kids to get involved. “Help your kids to see how they can help by doing such things as donating clothes, food, etc. It is a good idea to relate kids’ involvement to the kids affected by the disaster.” Above all, parents should reassure kids that they are safe and that everything is going to be OK, so that they will be less anxious, concludes Polk.
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OUR KIDS SAN ANTONIO is published monthly by Dominion Media, a division of Dominion Enterprises. Advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Call 210-349-6667 to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. OUR KIDS SAN ANTONIO copyright 2011 Dominion Enterprises. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
For help getting back into your kitchen, contact us at www.accommodatingcook.com or 210-863-5540
April 2011 | Our Kids 9
FYI
Last year’s Autism Walk attracted more than 4,000 walkers. PHOTO COURTESY OF ANY BABY CAN
Autism Walk Organizers Hoping to Break World Record
Organizers of the 7th annual Walk for Autism San Antonio are hoping to break a Guinness World Record for the largest charity walk category. The magic number is 4,458 participants, according to Alfred Chavira, community relations manager for Any Baby Can. Chavira is confident the local organization will have the needed participants to surpass the target because, for the past two years, the local walk has attracted more than 4,000 walkers. “The number of registrants is still climbing,” says Chavira. Sponsored by Any Baby Can, the walk is slated for April 16 at the AT&T Center. Funds received from the walk are used to provide eightweek parent training classes for parents of children newly diagnosed with autism. Classes focus on such topics as how to communicate with your child, potty training and more. “Parents gain the tools they need to prepare their child to live a full life without being dependent,” adds Chavira. To participate in the class parents must live in San Antonio or one of 11 surrounding areas. “All money stays right here in the San Antonio area. The walk brought in more than $60,000 last year – funding 30 to 40 families,” adds Chavira. To register as a participant, go to www.walkforautismsa.com. The registration fee is $15 for groups and $20 for individuals. At the time of registration, walkers are asked to customize an online fundraising page, which is sent to friends and family who then can make a financial pledge of support. A Guinness World Record representative will attend to verify the event. 10 Our Kids | April 2011
Fitness in the Park boot camp session. PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF SAN ANTONIO
ow Register N
Summer Days @ the Schoolhouse CCSD Accepted (government voucher)
NOW ENROLLING for 2011-2012 3110 NW Loop 410, SA, 78230 Cherry Ridge and 410 www.tjschoolhouse.com
Fitness in the Park The city of San Antonio has made getting fit easier for area residents. Now through the end of May, residents can participate in a free “Fitness in the Park” program sponsored by Mayor Julián Castro’s Fitness Council, the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District and the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. “Fitness in the Park” includes fitness and family boot camps, conditioning, Zumba and yoga, and organized hiking and walking on city park trails. Classes are offered at the following parks: Cuellar, 5626 San Fernando; HemisFair, 200 S. Alamo St.; Lion’s Field, 2809 Broadway; Milam, 501 W. Commerce St.; Northridge, 821 Chevy Chase; O.P. Schnabel, 9606 Bandera Road; Panther Springs, 21456 Blanco Road; Pittman-Sullivan, 1101 Iowa St.; San Pedro Springs, 1415 San Pedro Ave.; Rosedale, 303 Dartmouth; Woodard, 1011 Locke; and Woodlawn Lake, 1103 Cincinnati Ave. “Fitness in the Park” is an integral part of the Fitness Council efforts to create a healthier city. The council offers the following suggestions to members of the community: • Walk for 30 minutes two to three times a week and replace a soda with a glass of water once a day. • Eat at least one fruit or vegetable at each meal. • Exercise with your family once a week and make healthy family dinners a part of your normal routine. A number of other initiatives are also planned, including installing health-screening equipment in local libraries and closing several downtown streets for a day of recreation later this year. The city received $15.6 million in stimulus money to fund the program and other initiatives. The program is aimed at fighting the city’s obesity level. In 2003, San Antonio was listed as the city with the highest percentage of obese adults in the United States by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Although the city no longer holds this unwelcome distinction, city leaders would like to see an even greater improvement in San Antonians’ fitness levels. For a schedule of classes and times offered, visit www.sabalance.org and click on the fitness tab.
April 2011 | Our Kids 11
Bike Safety
Put Bike Safety First and Make the Fun Last by YVONNE VASQUEZ Spring is upon us in San Antonio and it is a perfect time to enjoy biking with your family. Cycling is a stimulating way to exercise while enjoying the sights and sounds of your surroundings. It is relatively inexpensive, and if you already own a bike, it is practically free. In its purest form, cycling is a great way for a family to bond while having fun. But while kids enjoy riding bikes, they also have a much higher rate of accidental injury compared to adult riders. Not enough kids wear protective helmets (which should always be worn) or they wear them improperly, and many are unaware of cycling safety. Fortunately, these odds can be significantly improved when children are given some basic safety knowledge. Before riding a bike, your child should be fitted with a helmet that is approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the head. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute reports medical research that shows a bicycle helmet can prevent up to 85 percent of head injuries. Children between ages 5 and 14 have the highest rate of injury and more than half of these collisions happen on neighborhood streets, sidewalks or playgrounds. A helmet should be worn squarely on top of the head, not tilted back, in order to protect the top of the forehead, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Additionally, the academy notes that the helmet should not move around on the head when pushed or pulled, so vision will not be obstructed. The chinstraps and buckle should be adjusted to fit snugly and stay fastened. Each side strap should meet in a “V� right under each ear when properly fitted. And although not absolutely required, using riding gloves and mouth guards can 12 Our Kids | April 2011
also lessen injuries for kids when they take a fall. In addition to wearing the proper equipment, cyclists of all ages should understand the importance of road rules that must be followed when cycling. “Cyclists should be aware that a bicycle is considered to be a legal vehicle on the road,” explains Lydia Kelly, Bicycle/Pedestrian Transportation Planner for San AntonioBexar County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). “Motorists and cyclists need to share the road. Same road, same rights, same responsibilities.” “Many people are not aware that bicycles are not allowed on sidewalks and that this is illegal,” adds Kelly.
Bicycle Safety Guidelines The MPO Bicycle Safety brochure offers several other valuable guidelines for bike safety as follows: Ride with traffic and obey the same rules as a motorist, such as stop signs, traffic lights and lane markings. Continually scan the road in front, beside and behind you for potential road hazards.
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Watch for opening car doors where there is on-street parking. Do not cross between parked cars or at mid-block. Ride in a relatively straight line as far to the right as is safe. Ride in designated bike lanes where provided. Listen to the world around you, not your headset. Hearing is a defense mechanism that can warn you of unsafe situations. At intersections (which includes driveways), right-of-way rules apply equally to motor vehicles and bicycles, but motorists may not be paying attention. Pay special attention to motorists turning left and right, or those pulling away from a stop sign, because they may fail to yield the right-of-way. Make eye contact whenever possible with motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists, especially as you enter and cross intersections. Use a headlight and a red rear reflector that can be seen 500 feet away when traveling at night. Make sure your children know how to properly operate the
Music and movement for children birth to age 7
Kathleen Cole Registering for Spring Classes
Maestro Kindermusik Educator Top 5% Worldwide
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210.478.8669
Makes a Great Gift from Grandma
www.kindermusikwithkathleen.com April 2011 | Our Kids 13
Trinity United Methodist School
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Bike Safety
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brakes and/or gears on their bicycles, advises Kelly. “A large empty parking lot is an ideal place where parents can teach these coordination skills to their children and reinforce these safety tips before they begin cycling,” she suggests. Kelly says parents should advise children look out for lighted brake lights as this may be a sign that the car is backing up. “When young children are riding on trails, it is suggested that an adult ride in the front and another in the back whenever possible,” Kelly adds.
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As with most outdoor activities, cycling does require some preparation for optimal enjoyment. To prepare for a safe ride, MPO’s Bicycle Safety brochure suggests that adults know their bicycle and make sure regular routine maintenance is performed on their bike as well as the bikes of their children. If going on a long trek, carry water and other fluids so you or the kids don’t get dehydrated. Adults and older children should learn how to change a flat tire and be ready with spare tubes and tools. When carrying groceries, briefcases, backpacks or any other gear, cyclists should keep the weight balanced and their hands free to steer, The San Antonio area is home to many parks and trails that are ideal for safe cycling at all skill levels. The MPO has prepared a detailed Bike Map available from most area cycling shops. The map illustrates 23 miles of developed greenway trails along scenic linear creekways that are now open to the public. These include South Salado Creek, Leon Creek, Medina River and the San Antonio River. Several local parks including O.P. Schnabel, McAllister, Brackenridge, Stone Oak, Comanche Lookout and Hardberger also have bike trails. When proper precautions are taken, cycling can be a great way for families to exercise and enjoy the outdoors. The city of San Antonio is making this activity easier for citizens to enjoy. Special Note: The city of San Antonio is updating its bicycle master plan and is anticipating that it will be adopted by City Council in 2011. For more information on local biking, visit the following websites: http://www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/ http://www.sametroplan.org/Bike_Walk/bike_walk.htm http://www.sawheelmen.com/ Yvonne M. Vasquez is a San Antonio freelance writer and the mother of one son.
14 Our Kids | April 2011
Recalled Products
CAUTION Consumer Beware Know Your Recalled Products by SALWA CHOUCAIR Baby rattles, cribs, high chairs, strollers, necklaces, metal cars, trucks, fairy wands, blocks and bath toys – just a few items on the list of recalled children’s toys and products that fills the computer screen with just one simple scroll through the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website. It’s quite an eye-opener for parents, and the list of manufacturers raises a few eyebrows as well. It seems the only way to ensure the safety of a child’s product, these days, is for the consumer to be aware. “The problem is that most juvenile products in this country are not required to undergo safety testing before they are sold. So, regardless of how popular, how new or how expensive your product is, until there is more stringent mandatory safety testing there is no reliable way to be sure it is safe,” according to the website www.kidsindanger.org. Kids in Danger (KID) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1998 by parents whose 16-month-old son died due to an unsafe portable crib. “Today there is little mandatory safety testing,” this informative site goes on to state. “Companies can choose to meet voluntary standards, but often those voluntary standards are inadequate to test for hazardous products.”
Parental Education is Key In order to better inform consumers about safety issues when it comes to children’s products and to avoid tragedies such as the one they suffered, the founders of KID strive to educate and be a resource for parents. As the program director for KID, Sarah Chusid urges parents and caregivers to follow three simple steps to safety – to learn,
to check and to act. “There’s a lot to know when it comes to recalled products,” Chusid says, “with lots of children’s products recalled each year. We encourage parents to check out our website, tour CPSC’s website and to sign up for recalled alerts.” The first step is to learn about the problem, she explains. Becoming aware that recalled products are not always reported in newspapers or on newscasts is important. In fact, “children's products are recalled as often as twice a week,” states the KID website. “That means there are on average more than 100 children’s products recalled per year. Chances are you have a recalled product, which is why it is so important to check.”
Check Your Home For Recalls Which is why checking your own products for recalls is the second step to ensuring safety, Chusid says. As a parent, this may seem overwhelming, especially if you have more than one child and your entire house is crammed full of children’s products from baby items to school-age toys. Chusid suggests beginning with the items your kids are using now. The process is actually fairly simple. Visit www.cpsc.gov or www.recalls.gov and enter the name, manufacturer or any description of your product to see if it has been recalled. San Antonio resale store owner Karen Wilburn uses the CPSC’s website daily. She and her staff at Once Upon a Child check every product that comes into the store prior to placing it on a shelf. In fact, a mother herself, Wilburn decided to open her business because she noticed how many items she April 2011 | Our Kids 15
Registration in Progress
wanted to donate or resale on an ongoing basis. She agrees that it is important for parents to check periodically through their children’s items to make sure there are no recalls. Once a recall has been discovered, it is imperative to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer. In fact, Chusid points out that this is why completing and mailing manufacturers’ registration cards is so important. This is how manufacturers contact consumers concerning recalls. “Often, the recall information you find will suggest that you take the item back to the retailer,” Wilburn says, “sometimes for a full refund.” While Wilburn diligently checks all the products she sells, consumers should be aware that it is truly up to them to check if a product has been recalled before purchasing it, Chusid says. This is especially true when purchasing a children’s product through eBay, craigslist, or any other Internet shopping venue. Parents can stay informed about recalled products by signing up for alerts through CPSC and KID. The third step in ensuring a child’s safety when it comes to products is to take action by letting others know and by reporting safety issues as well.
Spread the Word and Share Resources
Now Accepting Applications for 2011-2012 Summer School Register Now! Academic Reinforcement: Grades K-8
Grades: K-12
16 Our Kids | April 2011
High School Courses for Credit Dyslexia Intervention: Grades 1-12
“Spread the word to other families and share resources,” Chusid urges. KID has been working at the federal, state and local levels to pass a consumer bill concerning safety since its founding. The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 is a landmark bill that is just beginning to show signs of change when it comes to product safety. These improvements include new testing standards, the elimination of lead in children’s products, and a consumer database where consumers can report problems and see what others have reported too. Other items of awareness are products that have been handed down. When purchasing products from garage sales or accepting donated items, Chusid encourages consumers to look for loose parts, manufacturer’s stickers, identifying information and ask for instruction manuals. “It’s time consuming,” admits Wilburn, when it comes to checking every product against a recall list, “but it pays off in the long run,” especially when it comes to protecting those who cannot protect themselves – our children. Salwa Choucair is a San Antonio-based freelance writer and mother of two.
Summer Activities
Kids pose outside SeaWorld’s Bay of Play area. PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO
Summer Discoveries for Every Age by LISA Y. TAYLOR
Warmer weather and brighter skies signal that summer is near. Parents who want to get a jump-start on planning summer activities have a wide variety of options to consider – from the latest science exhibit to kid-friendly amusement park attractions to bowling lanes and ice hockey rinks.
Museum Adventures Children can experience an up-close look at the creeping and swimming creatures of the wild jungle at the Witte Museum exhibit, “Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes and Other Riches.” Featured animals include anacondas, stingrays and pink dolphins. On June 11, from 1 to 4 p.m., the museum is hosting Amazon Voyage Family Day where young ones can create fish prints, encounter live birds and snakes and participate in interactive fish tale storytelling. The Witte provides a multi-faceted experience, according to Sarita Rodriguez, its director of public programs. “Families can visit the latest blockbuster traveling exhibit, dig into Texas dinosaurs, head to the H-E-B Science Treehouse for hands-on fun, climb the 20-foot-tall Mount Witte, check out live animals in “Texas Wild” and even see an ancient Egyptian mummy,” she says. Science with a twist can be discovered at the newest exhibit at the San Antonio Children’s Museum, “Science City.” Activities are featured in six zones, including the
Stability Station, where kids can design block structures that withstand the forces of nature; the Zoom Zone that uses cars to show what makes things go faster or farther; and the Fly Zone that demonstrates how the weight and balance of objects affect how high or fast they move. For kids who can’t help snapping their fingers or tapping their toes, the McNay Art Museum presents its Summer Jazz and Lunch Series on June 26, July 24, Aug. 28 and Sept. 25. Families can sit in the cool comfort of the Leeper Auditorium while they listen to live jazz and enjoy a Mexican buffet from Tomatillos Café y Cantina. The concerts are free with museum admission, and the buffet has prices for adults and children. Free general admission to the McNay is offered on the first Sunday of each month and every Thursday after 4 p.m. This summer, families can enjoy an additional admission-free day on Sunday, June 19. The Free Family Day: Architecture Fair will give young visitors a chance to build miniature furniture, construct clocks and draft home blueprints while exploring the architectural style and design of George Nelson, one of the founders of American modernism.
Amusement Park Excursions Keeping cool is easy at the White Water Bay park of Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Little ones can wade in the Texasshaped Lone Star Lagoon, and older visitors can venture April 2011 | Our Kids 17
Carver Cultural Center
SUMMER CAMPS Dance and Theatre 210-207-2719 Dallas Black Dance Theatre Summer Dance Intensive Ages 8 – 18 July 18 – 29 M – F $75.00 fee 210-207-2719
The Renaissance Guild Theatre Summer Camp Ages 12 – 18 Grades 6 – 12 June 13 – July 1 M – F $100 Early $125 after April 1 210-207-7211
abdennis@SanAntonio.gov
www.therenaissanceguild.org
Eva’s Heroes is a non-profit organization founded by actress Eva Longoria Parker dedicated to enriching the lives of those with developmental challenges.
Summer Enrichment Program Ages 14 - 21
Monthly Activities Ongoing Registration • Open to Ages 16+
SPACE IS LIMITED • REGISTER NOW!!! 694-9090 or Visit www.evasheroes.org
on the thrilling Big Bender slide that boasts a 50-foot drop. If kids would rather stay dry, at least 25 rides at the park are designed for smaller tikes, including those at the Kidzopolis section (formerly Wiggles World) with attractions that include a mini-roller coaster, airplane and car rides, as well as a giant playscape. SeaWorld San Antonio also offers a just-for-kids area at its brand new Sesame Street Bay of Play. Attractions include Grover’s Round-Up, a colorful carousel; Abby Cadabby’s Rocking Wave, a ride that rocks forwards, backwards and sideways; and Little Bird’s Splash, which features 22 water elements such as geysers and dumping buckets. The 3-acre area is in the space formerly occupied by Shamu’s Happy Harbor. For more splashing fun, families can escape to SeaWorld’s Lost Lagoon water park for a variety of water slides and pools.
Outdoor Exploration Children can observe native wildlife while getting valuable exercise at San Antonio’s Natural Areas parks. Trekking among picturesque trails is free at the Crownridge Canyon, Eisenhower, Friedrich Wilderness, Hardberger, Medina River and Walker Ranch parks. For more structured exploration, Friedrich Park will offer its “Wild Wednesdays!” programs in July and August. Designed for children ages 7 to 11 years old, each session runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Topics vary weekly and include: hawks, falcons, owls and eagles; the good and bad of local ant species; making rock art and investigating water science. The cost is $5 a person with a maximum of $10 per family. A calendar of programs at all of the city’s natural parks is listed at www.sanaturalareas.org.
Sports Encounters Whether a child is stepping into bowling for the first time, or is preparing for national tournaments, Brunswick Thousand Oaks offers various leagues and programs fit for individual skill levels. Bowlers from ages 3 to 20 can bowl while earning college scholarship money through the lane’s Saturday program. Coaches are on-site to assist players, and prizes include free bowling games, patches and funds for college. “Rather than trophies, college scholarships are what a lot of parents want,” says Brunswick’s junior director, Debbie Galler. “Bowling can be a lifelong sport, and if kids learn now, they can also go on to bowl as 18 Our Kids | April 2011
Kim’s Academy of Tae Kwon Do Call for Information 653-2700 We teach children as young as 3 years olds Expires 4/30/2011
New Students only
298
$
3 Months
Free Uniform kimsacta.com
Art Camps & Classes Parties • Field Trips
Country Home Learning Center An Exceptional Child Care Facility Full and Part-time Child Care for Infants and Children up to age 13 • Country Home Waterpark and Splashdeck • Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground • Large Gymnasium and Basketball Court • Putt-Putt Golf Course • Arts and Crafts Lab • 1950’s Style Soda Shop • Computer Lab • Country Home Movie Theater • Horseback Riding at the Country Home Ranch
8 San Antonio Locations to Serve You • Now Enrolling Fully Accredited by AdvancED, a worldwide organization "Advancing Excellence in Education"
210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com April 2011 | Our Kids 19
Summer Camps
Summer Activities
3-8 years old 1 Week Camps
Youngster measures a worm during a summer program. PHOTO COURTESY OF SAN ANTONIO PARKS AND RECREATION
Intensive Music Class Puppets & Music Spanish & Music
366-3187 www.SAMusicMasters.com SUMMER PROGRAMS! June 6th – Aug. 19th 2011 WEEKLY SPORTS CAMP • M-F 8:00a.m.-5:30p.m. WEEKLY TENNIS CAMP • M-F 10:00a.m. - 2:00p.m. (includes swimming) Ask about our “combo” program!
GROUP PARTIES!
SW LESS IM ONS! A ll & all lages evels !
Green Tree
• Birthday • Team Sports • Perfect for Company Picnics
(easy access from all parts of town)
www.greentreetennis.com
681-5261
TENNIS CLUB
4721 Callaghan Rd.
an adult and earn real cash if they want to.” For kids who would like to cool off while having a blast, Embassy Miniature Golf offers its Water Wars attraction. From two launching stations, players have a good old-fashioned water balloon fight at an accelerated pace. The attraction complements the many fountains and ponds situated throughout the golf course. Weekly coupons are offered on the company website. “Miniature golf is an excellent activity for the whole family because it can be played by a wide range of ages,” says Beverly Hendricks, operations manager. Staying active is convenient at The Ice and Golf Center at Northwoods. The sports and entertainment complex encompasses hockey and ice skating rinks, an indoor soccer turf and an outdoor miniature golf course. Kids can come in during public skating and open soccer play times, or they can join a league or take lessons. “Our skating rinks are a good way to stay cool when it’s 100 degrees outside,” says David Ramsey, operations manager. “When the sun is beating down outside, the soccer turf is always in great shape and is air conditioned.” Indoors or outdoors, summer activities provide a great time for children to try something new, experience the wonders of the world and make memories with their families. Lisa Y. Taylor is a San Antonio-based freelance writer and mother of three daughters.
20 Our Kids | April 2011
SASPA Where dreams begin...
Summer Musical Theatre Camp of SA Ages 6-10 & Ages 11-up June 20-24, July 11-15, July 25-29 Princess Camp:
June 13-17 & 20-24 10-11:30 am July 11-15 from 6 to 7:30 Ages 3 - 6
Dance Camp: Beg/Int. 5:30 to 7pm June 13-17 & 20-24 Int./Adv. 5:30 to 8:30 pm June 13-17 & 20-24 Ages 7 & up Competition Team Audtions are on June 24th. Two weeks of camp required for audition.
Member TATD
All day Camp: July 18-22 with performance on 22nd. 8 am to 4 pm, Early & late care available, 3 to 8 yrs old. Ballet, tap, jazz, tumbling, crafts, nap time and snack will be provided. Please bring a sack lunch. Please call for details!
Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Zumba Hip Hop, Flamenco, Folklorico, Highland Acting, Bass, Saxophone, Guitar, Percussion, Piano, Woodwinds, Violin, Voice
495-(ARTS)2787
Family & Military Discounts
2824 Thousand Oaks
496-1687
Dancing for the Lord Since 1987
w w w. d a n c e p l u s s a n a n t o n i o . c o m
www.SanAntonioSchoolforthePerformingArts.com
April 2011 | Our Kids 21
Day Camps Academics
Register Now for Summer Camps
San Antonio Academy Summer at the Academy 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 www.sa-academy.org Math Camps Whether you want to learn basic math skills or plunge into the world of algebra and “probabilities,” our math camps will teach, reinforce and prepare you for moving ahead to the next level of math! Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
(210) 260-3804 www.alamofencing.com Convenient Location 961 Isom Rd - Off 281 & Isom
Reading, Phonics, Study Skills, Creative Writing, Public Speaking
Musical Arts Centers of San Antonio, Inc. “Building a Foundation for Lifelong Music”
SM
• Private Piano Instruction (ages 5 to Adult) • Pre-School Piano (Ages 3 and up) • Jazz Piano • Kindermusik (Infant to age 7) • Private Guitar • Jazz Saxaphone • Private Voice (Classical & Popular) • Cello • Violin • Viola
North West 12732 Cimarron Path, Suite 100 Near IH10/De Zavala Stone Oak 700 E. Sonterra Blvd. Corner of Sonterra & Sigma. Across from Auden’s Kitchen
697-7111 www.MusicalArtsCenter.com
REGISTER TODAY! * Register BEFORE April 30 and receive 10% OFF. Mention code OKSUM11 to recieve the discount. Offer expires 4/30/2011
These classes focus on skills and activities that will boost your confidence and strengthen your reading, writing, testing, and public presentation skills. Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
Arts& Crafts Artworks An Art Studio for Children 826-2787 – Central 256-2787 – Northwest 655-2787 - Northeast Visit our website for more information www.artworkstx.com At Artworks we have had over a thousand campers participating in our programs over a period of thirteen years. All our programs boast professional-level instruction in a relaxed atmosphere, small class sizes and flexibility to work around your schedule. Every year, we grow our program to include exciting new experiences for your artist. We offer half and full day options with minimal overlap to keep full day campers actively engaged. Please visit out Web site for more information.
Primary Colors 210-824-0230 3609 Broadway St www.primarycolorssa.com Every child is an artist at Primary Colors! At Primary Colors we believe that art should be fun, educational & messy!!! We encourage children to be creative and unique! Day time, Afterschool, Holiday & Summer Camps are available for children 18 months to 12 years! Check out our website or give us a call today!!
Art, Photography, Architecture, Scrapbooking, Jewelry Design Summer At The Academy 210.733.7331 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 www.sa-academy.org Pastels, watercolor, acrylic, drawing & painting, clay, cartooning, glass, metal, pasta & hemp jewelry, architecture, photography, scrapbooking, fashion design and more. For the artistic among you, a series of classes that will help you express your creative spirit! Costs vary. FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED. DATES: June 6 – July 29
Southwest School of Art & Craft 224-1848 300 Augusta San Antonio, TX 78205 www.swschool.org 22 Our Kids | April 2011
San Antonio’s large community art school offers more than 100 different one- and two- week long classes, concentrating on a specific media or subject, on its historic, serene downtown campus. Creative learning experiences in a positive, nurturing and fun environment, taught by some of the region’s best teachers.
The Royal Canvas 826-7246 5005 Broadway www.theroyalcanvas.com Let your inner artist come out at our Summer Camps! The Royal Canvas Painting Parlor caters to painters of all ages, desires and experience. Weekly sessions, June 6- 10, July 11-15, August 8 -12. Full or half day sessions and sibling discounts. Visit our Website or call for more information.
Animal Lovers San Antonio Academy Summer at the Academy 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 www.sa-academy.org Animal Lovers Bugs, birds, fishing, pet care, dinosaurs … calling all animal lovers. Come spend a week learning about and observing a variety of pets! Costs vary. Call for information. DATES: June FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED 6 – July 29
Computer iD Tech Camps – Summer Fun Technology Camps! University of the Incarnate Word 60 Prestigious Universities in the U.S. and Canada 1-888-709-TECH (8324) info@internalDrive.com Experience North America’s #1 summer technology program. Over 100,000 students ages 7-18 have created video games, websites, movies, iPhone® and Facebook® apps, robots and 3D animations. Enroll in these fun summer camps located at 60 universities nationwide and Canada, including the University of the Incarnate Word, St. Edward’s, U Houston and SMU. Also special Teen Academies. Save w/code TX32.
Computer Classes Summer at the Academy (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 www.sa-academy.org These classes explore a wide variety of technological skills and games. From KidTech to Website Design to Adobe Photoshop to Civilization to Master Blaster to Animation. Learn to be proficient in using your computer, while having fun! Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
Dance Dance Plus Summer Camps 2824 Thousand Oaks San Antonio, TX 78232 496-1687 www.danceplussanantonio.com Princess camp, musical theatre camp, competition team hopefuls and auditions. Please call for more information or visit our website.
Dallas Black Dance Theatre Summer Dance Intensive Carver Cultural Center 210-207-2719 226 N. Hackberry San Antonio abdennis@sanantonio.gov
Hill Country Montessori School 50 Stone Wall Drive Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 229-5377 info@hcmontessori.org www.hcmontessori.org
Two week session runs July 18 – 29, Monday – Friday for ages 8 – 18. Open to all levels, but experience preferred. Fee is $75.00. Master Instructors take each student’s dance to new heights, strengthening techniques and bringing out full artistic potential in ballet, modern, jazz and other genres. Program culminates with a performance. Space limited so enroll today.
Weekly Camps - For those families looking for a week-by-week option for their 3-6 year old, we have a selection of weekly “themed” camps to choose from. Combining fun and learning, your child will have a summer to remember. Some of our offerings this summer are: HCMS’ Got Talent, Wacky World of Science, Petite Culinary Institute and more!
Et Cetera ChessCamp 888-65-CHESS www.chesscamp.com Chess is a great way for kids to hone stratethinking skills! The 15th gic Annual USA Chess National Summer Camp Tour will be held July 18th-22nd 2011 at St. Luke’s Episcopal School in San Antonio, June 13th-17th 2011 at Holy Family Catholic School in Austin and July 11th14th 2011 (4-Day Camp) at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Austin. Co-Ed Ages 515 yrs. Morning, Afternoon & All-Day Sessions, Group & Sibling Discounts. For more information and to register online visit our website: please www.chesscamp.com
Country Home Learning Center www.countryhomelearningcenter.co m Call 210-687-1002 for nearby location Our exceptional Summer Camp program includes daily field trips to exciting, funfilled places. Campers enjoy our Waterpark, Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground, PuttPutt Golf Course, Gym, 1950’s Style Soda Shop, Movie Theater, Computer Lab, Horseback Riding at Country Home Ranch. Creative weekly themes add to our Campers’ cultural enrichment and total enjoyment.
Royal Purpose Academy First Baptist San Antonio July 25-29 ~ 930 to 230 $120 prior to May 31st $150 after May 31st 210.226.0363 or www.fbcsa.org Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas girlscouts-swtx.org/camp Day or overnight camps for all girls age 517. Not a Girl Scout? Not a problem…for $12 more girls can participate in any of Girl Scouting’s flexible pathways. GSSWT offers a quality camp experience and is accredited by the ACA. Learn more at girlscoutsswtx.org/camp!
Hill Country Montessori School 50 Stone Wall Drive Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 229-5377 info@hcmontessori.org www.hcmontessori.org Elementary - Our summer program for students 7-12 years of age is jam packed with options! We offer weekly “themed” camps with lots of activities to keep them intrigued, entertained, and involved. Some of our offerings this summer are: Interior Design, Cyber-Sleuth, Expedition Egypt, Wacky World of Science, and so much more!
Camp Amazing Kids Kids R Kids Schools of Quality Learning 10606 Liberty Field Road San Antonio, Texas 78254 (210) 681-5437 www.krklibertyfield.com What do healthy food, the arts, sports, inventions and adventure have in common? YOU! Get ready for the ultimate in ten weeks of exhilarating fun as you discover incredible talents and interests of the amazing kid within you. COED Ages 5-12
Summer at the Hall Saint Mary’s Hall 483-9124 9401 Starcrest, San Antonio, TX 78217 www.smhall.org. Ages 3 - Adult • Call for rates and schedules. From basketball to Ballet and from math to music, Summer at the Hall offers something for all ages and interests. Explore the many opportunities that will make your child’s summer unforgettable. Academic, fine arts, cooking, sports, field trips and for-credit classes are available for all ages 3 and up. Give your kids an educational an enriching experience, enroll them in Summer @ the Hall!
Primary Colors
Art Education Center
Workshops
Camp Barbie Barbies, Barbies, Barbies
Art Classes for ages 18 months to 12 years
Everywhere Ages 4-8
Birthday Party Packages Available
Jumpstart Kindergarten Ages 4-6
(210) 824-0230
Fashion Designer Ages 8-12
Register Now 210•657•8866 opt.2 June 13-17 or June 27 - July 1 Northeast Community Education
www.primarycolorssa.com facebook.com/primarycolors.sa
Summer Tennis Programs • Full-day & Half-day Camps June 6 - Aug 19 weekly sessions
• Hourly classes Available
493-7777 11515 Whisper Forest www.thetennispark.com
Summer at the Academy (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 www.sa-academy.org Medieval Battles, King Arthur’s Court, Star Wars A collection of classes that captures the sweep of courtly days, as well as the fun warrior games and space battles … or become a general and lead units of thundering knights into battle! Costs vary. FOR AGES: 6&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
Etiquette, Baking & Cooking, Pasta, Traveling Chef, Pastries These classes focus on skills and activities that center on displaying knowledge of proper etiquette, and creating culinary delights … great recipes and treats go home! Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
Cards, Chess, Math & Table Games Become a champion of board and tables games by taking any, or all, of these classes. Entertain family & friends with “secret” card tricks and “thoughtful” moves. You’ll be the center of attention after these classes! Costs vary. FOR AGES: 6&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
Legos, Knex, Rockets, Model Airplanes, Manipulatives Summer At The Academy FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29 Come explore your “building” imagination! Costs vary. Call for information. April 2011 | Our Kids 23
Coming in May Childcare Preschool Finder • • • •
Ages 12 months - 85 years Four Students per Class Private Lessons Available Free Underwater pictures
95% Learn in 2 weeks Register Now Space Limited
Our Kids 2011 H-E-B • Sams Club • Book Stores • Jim’s Restaurant • Libraries • other retail locations
Call for location nearest you.
Instructor: Marguerite Martin-Bozeman (210) 403-0351 mswimschool@aol.com
349-6667
St. Pius X Catholic School presents Summer Fun Days Students will be divided into Pre K, Jr.Camp, and Sr. Camp Field trips include adventures to: Museums, Movies, Bowling, Libraries, Arts & Crafts and so much more!
Sports Camps Offered • • • • •
Soccer May 31-June 3 8:30AM-12:00PM Baseball/Softball June 6-10 8:30AM-12:00PM Flag Football June 13—17 8:30AM—12:00PM Basketball June 20—24 8:30AM—12:00PM Strengthening/Conditioning Boot Camp
St. Pius X Catholic School 7734 Robin Rest, San Antonio, TX 78209 Tel: (210) 824-6431
San Antonio Botanical Garden San Antonio, TX 78209 207-3255 www.sabot.org Junior Gardener Camp — June 20 – 24 for Ages 6-8 July 18 – 22 Ages 9 – 12. Get your hands on horticulture from flowers to vegetables to basic botany and garden design. 9AM – 3PM, aftercare available until 4:30 for an additional $35.
Junior Naturalist Camp — June 1317 for Ages 6-8 July 11 – 15 for Ages 9 -12 Explore nature as you learn outdoor skills including native plant identification, birding, hiking and ethno botany. 9AM – 3PM, aftercare available until 4:30 for an additional $35.
Animal Botanical Special Needs Summer Camp — Ages 6 and up June 13 – 16 & June 20 – 23, 9AM – 1PM Activities include learning about animals and plants living in the garden, crafts, recreation, music and daily snacks.
Little Sprouts Summer Camp — Ages 3 -5 June 6 – 10, 10AM – Noon These camps let the young ones explore gardening and nature with hands-on investigations and creative play.
St. Pius X Summer Fun Days Students will be divided into Pre K, Jr. Camp, and Sr. Camp. Field trips included adventures to: museums, movies, theaters, bowling and libraries. Summer Fun Days will be weekly, June 6 – July 29th, 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., with extended care available. Weekly Summer Fun rates include t-shirt, supplies, field trips and afternoon snack. 824-64317734 Robin Rest San Antonio, TX 78209 www.stpiusx.cc/school
Summer in the Country! San Antonio Country Day School (210) 496-6033 4194 Jung Road, San Antonio, TX 78247 www.countrydayschool.net Ages 3 – 11 • Call for rates and schedule Come spend the summer at San Antonio Country Day School! Classes include Sleuthing, Drama, Fort Building, Art, Yoga, Spanish, Cooking and Montessori. Serving ages 3 – 11. Sports and More!
St. Thomas Episcopal School 1416 North Loop 1604 East San Antonio, Texas 78232 210-494-3509 ext. 209 Stephanie Cady, Program Director Tiger Connections Community Education June 13th – August 12th 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., ages 2 years (by 9/1/2011) – 6 years. Legos, Tutoring, Girl’s Camps, Boy’s Camps, Soccer Shots, Mad Science, Drama, Piano, Guitar, Voice, Preschool Music, Ballet & Tap, Jumpstart Kg, Art, Kid Tech Computer, Gymnastics Plus, Jump Rope Express, Phonics, Early Bird Spanish, CPR, Quilting, full or part time.
Summer Pride June 13th – July 29th 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Full/part time. Set in weekly units, “Ride the Wave”, “Art Smart”, “Have a Ball”, “Bug Off”, “Save Our Planet”, “Camp Yellowstone” and “Continental Celebration”. Included activities are art, crafts, cooking, science, chapel, stories, in-house visitors.
24 Our Kids | April 2011
The Montessori School of San Antonio 210-492-3553 17722 Rogers Ranch Parkway San Antonio, TX www.montessoriSA.org Summer Camp is available 9am to 3pm to children ages 3-12. The program offers before-camp and after-camp opportunities in art, dance, Spanish, piano, and math. There will be quiet napping areas for children still needing a nap.
Video Game Creation Camp/Gamebuilders 888-652-4377 www.gamebuildercamp/video.htm At Gamebuilder Creation Camp your child will actually design, develop and create a one of a kind video game! Our 2011 Camps Include: Intro Video Game Creation Camp, Video Game Creation-The Sequel Camp & Animation Creation Camp. Co-Ed Ages 8 to 15 yrs. Camps held July 18th-22nd 2011 at St. Luke’s Episcopal School in San Antonio, June 13th-17th 2011 at Holy Family Catholic School in Austin & July 11th-14th 2011 (4-Day Camp) at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Austin. Please visit our website: www.gamebuildercamp.com/video.htm to register online!
Fencing Fencing Camp Alamo Fencing Academy 260-3804 961 Isom Rd., San Antonio, TX 78216 alamofencing@yahoo.com http://www.alamofencing.com Ages 8- 16 • Call for rate and schedule. Fencing captures the imagination, encourages creativity and develops and builds confidence in the physical and mental skills. Please see our website for all camp information.
Gymnastics & Cheerleading Olympia’s Summer Day Camp Olympia Gymnastics 826-4296 6925 Sunbelt Dr. East, San Antonio, TX 78218 www.olympiakids.com Ages 4 & up • Call for rates Olympia Gymnastics offers “definite goodtime camp”. Kids that have unlimited energy have a great time doing gymnastics and playing cooperative group games. We also have arts & crafts and games in addition to the gymnastics. Full and half-day also extended day available. June 6 – Aug. 19, one week increments.
Martial Arts Kim’s Academy 4447 Thousand Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78232 653-2700 kimsacta@sbcglobal.net www.kimsacta.com Ages 3 – Adult • Call for schedule Kim’s Academy offers fun & fitness through our martial arts program. Over 30 years in business. ACTA certified.
St. Thomas Episcopal School
SUMMER SENSATIONS Summer Pride & Tiger Connection • Dance • Music • Sports • Science • Arts & Crafts SAES Accredited and much more! For the Summer Sensations Catalog Email scady@stthomasschoolsatx.com
Or call 494-3509 ext. 209 1416 N. Loop 1604 E. San Antonio,Texas 78232
www.stthomaskids.com
April 2011 | Our Kids 25
Victory Martial Arts 877-797-7988 Five San Antonio Locations www.victoryma.com We have developed exciting and fun childbased programs based on traditional martial arts and on a life-time learning concept in a safe, structured environment.
Music Musical Arts Center of San Antonio Stone Oak-Concord Park 700 E. Sonterra Blvd. Ste. 206 (210) 490-1500 North West (IH 10-De Zavala) 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100 (210) 697-7111 www.MusicalArtsCenter.com Electric and Acoustic Guitar — Whether you want to be a real ‘guitar hero’ or want to develop mastery of the beautiful music for classical guitar – or both! - We have a guitar instructor to meet your needs.
Private Piano Lessons More than 25 outstanding piano instructors teach in private studios each equipped with a grand piano. MACSA’s piano instructors specialize in teaching students from beginning to artist level and from ages three to adult. From Jazz and Hymn improvisation to the most challenging of the Classical literature, we have an appropriate instructor for you!
Strings: Violin, Viola & Cello Let our highly qualified instructors teach you the proper technique in mastering a stringed instrument. Traditional and Suzuki both offered.
Voice Instruction Classes for young singers and private instruction offered for beginners and experienced singers. MACSA’s voice teachers are classically trained singers and performers. Styles include classical, musical theater, contemporary, and real-world – such as Rock, Country, Blues, or Latino. Topics also include microphone technique and auditioning.
Performing Arts San Antonio Academy Summer at the Academy 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 Call for more information and rates www.sa-academy.org Theatre, TV Camera Action, Public Speaking, Creative Writing Summer At The Academy This series of classes will provide you with a wide variety of life skills in such areas as dynamic public speaking, writing, appearing on camera, and experiencing “behindscene” and “on-stage” action. Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 4&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
2011 Musical Theatre Camp San Antonio School for the Performing Arts 495-2787 12915 Jones-Maltsberger, Suite 200 www.SanAntonioSchoolforthePerfo rmingArts.com Ages 6-10 & Ages 11 & up • June 26 Our Kids | April 2011
20 -24, July 11-15, July 25-29 Musical Theatre Camp is a complete week of performing arts experience. Combining fun and knowledge of the performing arts skills necessary to be in a professional production. No previous experience is required and auditions for solos are voluntary. Camp clinicians have professional stage experience and knowledge. Camp includes musical theatre dance, singing, acting, new friends, T-shirt, daily lunch and two final performances. Camps fill fast so enroll soon and save a spot in your favorite camp performances.
Science Sizzlin’ Science Summer Camps High Touch High Tech Ages 6-10 Phone 359-8648 info@ScienceMadeFunSATX.net www.ScienceMadeFunSATX.net Our scientists also come to your camp location to provide unique science experiences. Check us out for fun summer birthday parties; we come to you. Contact Mr. Sonic for details.
San Antonio Academy Summer at the Academy 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, Tx 78212 (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 www.sa-academy.org Science & Inventions, Rockets, Forensics, Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology Summer At The Academy These classes explore a wide variety of science fields. During each camp there will be experiments, observations, videos and other learning tools introduced. Experience learning in a fun environment while improving your academic performance. Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 5&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
Sports Green Tree All Day Sports Camp Green Tree Tennis Club 681-5261 4721 Callaghan Rd., San Antonio, TX 78228 www.greentreetennis.com Ages 6 – 16 • Call for rates. Weekly sessions running Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. for juniors ages 6 – 16 yrs. old who love all sports. This camp is instructional and features the club’s popular tennis camp and “Swim America” swim lessons. Other sports include volleyball, basketball, soccer plus movie time, open swim, games and much more! Eleven sessions are available from June 6 – Aug. 19 Save $$$ with summer package discounts plus early bird registration!!
Green Tree Tennis Camp Ages 6 – 18 • Call for rates. Weekly sessions running Monday – Friday 10 am – 2 pm for juniors ages 6-16 yrs. Great club atmosphere to learn how to play tennis. Basic tennis fundamentals and skills along with stroke production are taught. The camp includes 20 hours of tennis court PLUS pool time! Save $$$ with summer package discounts plus early bird registration! Eleven sessions are available from June 6 – Aug. 19.
What’s your Plan for the Summer?
Summer Camp at Country Day Montessori ages 2 1/2 years to 6th grade
Now Accepting
19
83
Applications for Fall 2011-2012 Accredited SACS - CASI
Visit us online www.countrydayschool.net
210-496-6033 San Antonio Country Day Montessori welcomes children regardless of race, sex, religion, ethnicity or national origin.
April 2011 | Our Kids 27
Summer “COMBO” Program Tennis & Swim Lessons This program is for children ages 5-10 years old and runs for two weeks. Juniors will learn basic skills and fundamentals of tennis. “Swim America” Swim Lessons in the pool area! Classes are grouped 4-6 children/instructor according to age and skill level. Save $$$ with summer package discounts plus early bird registration!!
San Antonio Academy Summer at the Academy 117 E. French Place, San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 733-7331 Ext. 237 www.sa-academy.org Sports Camps, Cheerleading, Yoga If you are a sports and exercise fanatic (or just love fun and games), come join us for classes in karate, fencing, soccer, football, basketball, lacrosse, bowling, dodgeball, cheerleading, Ultimate Frisbee, badminton, and Yoga. Costs vary. Call for information. FOR AGES: 5&Up/COED DATES: June 6 – July 29
St. Pius X Sports Camps 824-6431 7734 Robin Rest San Antonio, TX 78209 www.stpiusschool.org There will be four different sports camps offered this summer. Soccer, Baseball/Softball, Flag Football, Basketball and a Strengthening/Conditioning Boot Camp. All camps will develop your athletes’ fundamental and advanced skills. Camps will be competitive and action packed; so bring your “A game”, proper equipment and be ready to improve!
Swimming Martin Swim School (210) 403-0351 mswimschool@aol.com www.martinswimschool.com Ages 12 months to 85 years Learn to swim this summer with instructor, Marguerite Martin-Bozeman! Limited to four students per class. Private lessons at your home or mine available upon request. Free underwater pictures!
SPRING CLASS & DAY CAMP REGISTRATION IN PROGRESS!
www.olympiakids.com
• 9 Week Sessions • Morning, Afternoon & Evening Classes • Structured Classes for Children as Young as 3 • Open Gym M & W @ 10:30-11:20/$5.00 per Child • Gymnastics, Tumbling & Cheer/Tumble Classes • Saturday Mom & Me Classes at 9:00am • MDO Tues. & Thurs. 9-12:00 • Birthday Parties
Gymnastics & Cheerleading Skill Development & Fun For Beginners To Advanced Gymnasts
826-4296 6925 Sunbelt Dr. East 78218 28 Our Kids | April 2011
Summer “COMBO” Program Tennis & Swim Lessons Green Tree Tennis Club Call for rates & dates This program is for children ages 5-10 years old and runs for two weeks. Juniors will learn basic skills and fundamentals of tennis. “Swim America” Swim Lessons in the pool area! Classes are grouped 4-6 children/instructor according to age and skill level. Save $$$ with summer package discounts plus early bird registration!! Contact information: 4721 Callaghan Rd., San Antonio, TX 78228; 681-5261; www.greentreetennis.com
Swim America Swim Lessons Green Tree Tennis Club Ages 3 & older • Call for rates & dates We teach America to swim for fun and fitness. Swim lessons are for children ages 3 and older. Two week sessions. Beautiful pool area plus experienced instructors. Classes are grouped according to age and skill level. Groups consist of 4 – 6 children/instructor. Save $$$ with summer package discounts plus early bird registration!! Contact information: 4721 Callaghan Rd., San Antonio, TX 78228; 681-5261; www.greentreetennis.com
San Antonio Swim Academy 404-2782 San Antonio, TX www.saswimacademy.com Our philosophy is simple. We focus on safety first, followed by a steady progression that turns into perfection. Our classes are super small which gives us time to spend with each student and maximize their time with us.
Tennis Green Tree Tennis Camp Green Tree Tennis Club 681-5261 4721 Callaghan Rd., San Antonio, TX 78228 www.greentreetennis.com Ages 6 – 18 • Call for rates. Weekly sessions running Monday – Friday 10 am – 2 pm for juniors ages 6-16 yrs. Great club atmosphere to learn how to play tennis. Basic tennis fundamentals and skills along with stroke production are taught. The camp includes 20 hours of tennis court PLUS pool time! Save $$$ with summer package discounts plus early bird registration! Eleven sessions are available from June 6 – Aug. 19.
Tennis Camp The Tennis Park 493-7777 11515 Whisper Oaks San Antonio TX, 78231 www.thetennis park.com Immerse yourself in tennis. Meet new friends and enjoy on court and off court activities. All programs are geared toward players of all levels. Our qualified pro’s deliver daily tennis instruction in a fun environment. COED Ages 5-18
Theatre The Renaissance Guild Theatre Summer Camp Carver Cultural Center 210-207-7211 226 N. Hackberry San Antonio www.therenaissanceguild.org Slots are limited for this three week session for youth, ages 12 – 18, 6th – 12th grade. Daily classes run 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. , Monday – Friday from June 13 – July 1. Early bird sign up is $100 through April 1. After April 1, cost is $125. Limited to first 25 registered students. Theatre training will aid middle and high school aged students in developing and strengthening critical theatre skills including acting, set design and tech. Performance is finale on July 1.
Tutoring Learning Foundations – Diagnostic and Learning Center 495-2626 2817 Thousand Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78232 www.learningfoundationus.com Summer Intensives maximize progress before next school year. Attention and focus, reading fluidity/comprehension, organization and study skills, memory and auditory processing will be improved. Certified training in one-on-one settings. Half-day sessions available for 6 weeks. Make a BIG change in your child.
Camping Associations American Camp Association, Texoma The American Camp Association is the resource for families. CAMP www.CAMPparent.org provides you with expert advice about camp and free searchable database or available camps. Contact information: PO BOX 472264, Garland, TX 888-559-CAMP; 75047; www.acatexoma.org
Family Camping Paradise Canyon 830-751-9911 2220 CR 2615, Rio Medina TX 78066 www.paradisecanyon.com postmaster@paradisecanyon.com Pack up the tent and the kids and head for Paradise Canyon. Bring your river clothes and fishing pole, your favorite foods and enjoy nature at its best. Great for group camp-outs. Check our website for details about our facilities.
OVERNIGHT CAMPS Boys’ Camps Camp Mondamin for Boys Tuxedo, NC Ages 6-17 • $875-$5,550 May 30 – August 16 Since 1922. One- to five-week sessions. Education through wilderness and adventure. Non-competitive, non-regimented activities for goal-setting and self-confidence. Contact information: P.O. Box 8, Tuxedo, NC 28784; 800-688-5789; mondamin@mondamin.com; www.mondamin.com.
Camp Stewart for Boys Hunt, TX Ages 6-16 • 2, 4 or 8 weeks $900$7,400 For boys 6 – 16, wholesome fun, growth, 70 plus activities. Ragsdale family owned, operated, outstanding role model counselors, worldwide enrollment, home-style cooking, North Fork, Guadalupe River. Contact information: 612 FM 1340 Hunt, TX 78024; 830-238-4670; www.campstewart.com.
Girls’ Camps Camp Green Cove for Girls Tuxedo, NC Ages 6-17 • $875-$5,550 May 30 – Aug. 16 Since 1945. One- to five-week sessions. Education through wilderness and adventure. Non-competitive, non-regimented activities for goal setting and self-confidence. Contact information: P.O. Box 38, Tuxedo, NC 28784; 800-688-5789; greencove@greencove.com; www.greencove.com.
Camp Honey Creek Hunt, TX Ages 6-17 • 2, 3 or 4 weeks, $1,850-$3,125 Girls develop a positive attitude and grow in a caring, safe and wholesome atmosphere. Contact information: 401 Honey Creek W., P.O. Box 140, Hunt, TX 78024; 830-2384630; chc@camphoneycreek.com; www.camphoneycreek.com.
Camp La Jita Utopia, TX (on the Sabinal River) Ages 7-18 • Check website for rate information Sports, horseback riding, canoeing, dance, crafts, backpacking, swimming, archery, photography, etc. Non-Girl Scouts welcome. Please visit our website for more information. Contact information: P.O. Box 790339, San Antonio, TX 78279; 210-3492404; www.sagirlscouts.org.
Camp Mira Sol Waring, TX Ages 7-18 • Check website for rate information Designed for inexperienced and experienced campers. Sailing, canoeing, backpacking, cycling, swimming, crafts and more. Please visit our website for more information. Contact information: P.O. Box 790339, San Antonio, TX 78279; 210-3492404; www.sagirlscouts.org.
Book your child’s next
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Heart of the Hills Camp for Girls Hunt, TX Ages: 6-16 • 2, 5 or 8 weeks, $1,980-$7,400
Weekly Summer Camps June 6-10 July 11-15 Aug. 8-12
Girls 6-16, Guadalupe River, air conditioned. Family style dining, character-building atmosphere, worldwide enrollment, personable! Fun, instruction-oriented, offering more than 50 activities. Family owned and operated. Contact information: 2430 Hwy. 39, Hunt, TX 78024; 830-2384650; info@hohcamp.com; www.hohcamp.com.
Located in Alamo Heights @ 5005 Broadway Street
210.826.7246
Kickapoo Kamp for Girls Kerrville, TX Ages 6-17 • 1, 2 and 3 weeks, $1,800-$2,550 Kickapoo’s enrollment of 100 girls ages 6 to 17 enables counselors to give individual attention to campers and stress traditional values. Contact information: 216 Hummingbird Lane, Kerrville, TX 78028; 830-895-5731; www.kickapookamp.com.
Rocky River Ranch Wimberly, TX Ages 7-14 • 1-2 weeks A unique summer camp for girls ages 7 to 14. Sessions include choice of: horseback riding, drama, canoeing, swimming, dance, fishing, arts and crafts, rappelling and more. Contact information: P.O. Box 109, Wimberly, TX 78676; 800-863-2267; info@rockyriverranch.com; www.rrrcamp.com.
Co-ed Camps Camp Balcones Springs Marble Falls, TX Ages 7-17 • 2-6 weeks, $2,400 $5,100 A premier Christian sports and outdoor camp dedicated to building quality relationships through spiritual impact and fun. Features air-conditioned cabins with a 4:1 counselor to camper ration. Contact information: 104 Balcones Springs Drive, Marble Falls, TX 78654; 830-693-CAMP; info@campbalconessprings.com, www.campiscool.com.
Camp Cho-Yeh and Conference Center Ages: Entering grades 1-12 $690 1-week sessions, $1,290 2week sessions Christian recreation camp offering a wide variety of activities and quality cabin life. Residential; Sun. to Sat. Ten 1- and three 2week sessions between June 7 and Aug.
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Virtual Camp Fair Looking for the Right Summer Camp or Program for Your Child? Our Kids San Antonio is pleased to introduce our Virtual Camp!
15. Well-trained, energetic staff. Established in 1947, ACA accredited. Contact information: 2200 S. Washington, Livingston, TX 77351; 936-328-3200; www.cho-yeh.org.
Camp Lone Star La Grange, TX Ages 5-18 and families • June August Week and weekend sessions Camp Lone Star, along the Colorado River, offers a safe, Christian community committed to individual attention and uplifting, fun events for youth and families. Contact information: 2016 Camp Lone Star Road, La Grange, TX 78945; 877-452-0099; info@lomt.com; www.lomt.com.
Camp Olympia Trinity, TX Ages 7 – 16 • $2,575 - $3,495 Established in 1968, Camp Olympia is an overnight summer camp for boys and girls, ages 7-16. Located on Lake Livingston in Trinity, Texas, the camp offers individualized scheduling of over 35 activities, ranging from waterskiing to golf to horseback riding, so capers get to choose the activities that interest them. Children learn responsibility and cooperation at camp while gaining independence and self-esteem. Contact information: 723 Olympia Drive, Trinity, TX 75862; 800-7356190; www.campolympia.com
Deer Creek Christ-Centered Adventure Bandera County, TX (outside Medina on Hwy. 337) Ages 7-16 • June 7-Aug. 1 1, 2 and 3-week sessions, $775$1,500 High adventure activities including canoe, kayak, waterslide, zip line, dance, archery and field games. Deer Creek camp is a non-denominational, Christ-centered adventure camp for boys and girls ages 7 – 16. Contact information: P.O. Box 200, Medina, TX 78055; 830-589-7123; pambehling@deercreekcamp.com; www.deercreekcamp.com.
Greene Family Camp Grades 2 – 12 • $1,400 - $3,125, June 14 – Aug. 5
See you there! www.OurKidsSanAntonio.com
The URJ Greene Family Camp has served all of the Reform Congregations in Texas and Oklahoma since 1976. It provides both young and young at heart an opportunity to grow and learn at the same time. It is an unforgettable religious, cultural, recreational and emotional experience. Contact information: PO Box 1468, 1192 Smith Lane, Bruceville, TX 76630; 254-859-5411; gfc@urj.org; www.greene.urjcamps.org
His Hill Ranch Camp Ages 6-10 • $240 - $440 Join us for a summer camp adventure! Enjoy exciting activities and be encouraged in your relationship with Christ through applicable Bible teaching. Contact information: PO BOX 9, Comfort, TX 78103; 830995-3388; camp@hishill.org; www.hishill.org
Mo-Ranch Summer Camp Hunt, TX Ages 8 – 15 • June 8 – July 19 1 – 2 week sessions, $609 - $1,322 An opportunity to experience the Christian life, through exciting and adventurous activities. Swim and canoe the Guadalupe horseback ride the hills and have FUN! Contact information: 2229 FM 1340, Hunt,
30 Our Kids | April 2011
TX 78024, 800-460-4401 ext. 250 or 253, summercamp@moranch.com, www.moranch.com
Pine Cove Christian Camps Tyler & Columbus, Texas Grades 2 – 12 • $646-$1,718 Pine Cove Youth Camps offer non-stop fun, recreation and the opportunity for you to really get to know Jesus. Contact information: P.O. Box 9055 - Tyler, Texas 877-4-Pine-Cove, 75711, www.pinecove.com
Sky Ranch Van, TX Ages 6 – 16 • Call for rates Located in East Texas, Sky Ranch is a GREAT Christian camp offering activities such as Blob, Waterslides, Zip-lines, Jetskis, paintball and so much more. Spaces limited, register today! Contact information: 24657 Country Road 448, Van, TX, 78790; 903-266-3300, 800-962-2267; guestregistrations@skyranch.org; www.skyranch.org
YMCA Camp Flaming Arrow Hunt, Texas Ages 8-15 Call for rates and schedule YMCA Camp Arrow in Hunt, Texas, overnight camp with climbing walls, ropes challenge courses, horseback riding, canoeing, archery, river slide and rope swing, new swimming pool, nature studies, sports activities, campfire fun! Visit ymcacampflamingarrow.org or call 1-800765-9622. Contact information: P.O. Box 770, Hunt, TX 78024-0770; 800-765-9622; www.campflamingarrow.org.
Special Needs Camp Agape Bereavement Camp for Children Burnet, TX Ages 6-12 • Summer only No cost; paid by private donations The fun of a summer camp along with a program focused on helping children find their loss. Contact information: PMB 244, P.O. Box 757, Marble Falls, TX 78654; 512756-7353; camppagape@grayce.net; www.campagapetexas.org.
Camp Aranzazu, Inc. Rockport, TX Call for ages, dates & rates Camp Aranzazu is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with chronic illnesses and disabilities by providing unique camping, environmental studies, and retreat experiences to groups with special needs. Contact information: PO BOX 1059, Rockport, TX, 78381, 361-7270800; www.camparanzazu.org
Charis Hills Camp Ingram, TX Call for ages, dates & rates Charis Hills is a Christian Summer Camp specifically designed to help kids with learning differences (ADHD, LD, ED and Asperger’s) find success. Our focus is on building self confidence, social skills and independence. Contact information: PO BOX 1377, Ingram, TX, 78025; 888-6812173; info@charishills.org, www.charishills.org
b.a.b.y
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The Best Advice For Baby & You
When a Drop of Infant Blood Can Save a Life by MARY LANCE In 1999, 11 days after Seth Morris was born, his parents received a phone call which “rocked our world,” says dad William Morris. “Our pediatrician told us Seth’s newborn screening blood test had come back from the state lab as abnormal; our baby boy had phenylketonuria (PKU),” says Morris, a pediatric home health nurse who lives in New Braunfels with his wife Nicole and three sons. “It was a newborn blood test which saved Seth’s life,” notes a grateful dad. Morris didn’t literally mean life or death, because PKU isn’t considered fatal, rather that his son because of early detection and continued diet and treatment, today is an energetic, happy 11-year-old who plays the trumpet and loves baseball. Prior to 1963, newborn infants in Texas left the hospital without the test that Seth received. No more. Each Texas newborn now receives a heel prick blood test for 28 disorders that is sent to a state laboratory for analysis. Babies yelp a bit at the prick, administered by a nurse in the nursery, but it’s a life-altering prick. About 700 babies of the approximately 400,000 born in Texas annually test positive for one of the disorders now screened. Infants testing positive for PKU lack an enzyme needed to metabolize or process the amino acid phenylalanine, which is necessary for normal growth in kids and for normal protein use throughout life. Morris explains the disorder affects about one in 20,000 children and requires early intervention, which consists of strictly controlling protein intake and a regimen of drugs. If too much phenylalanine builds up in the body, it can damage brain tissue and eventually cause substantial developmental delay. Another of the Morris’ sons, Greyson, born in 2007, died from Krabbes Disease, a metabolic disorder not yet in the newborn screening panel. “Newborn screening tests offer early recognition and hope,” said Dr. Fernando Guerra, a pediatrician and recently retired director of the city of San Antonio Metropolitan Health Department. Guerra explains that with early detection an infant hopefully
MORRIS FAMILY PHOTO
can begin immediate treatment and prevent serious complications such as growth problems, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, deafness, blindness, seizures and, in some cases, early death. Guerra and his partners at Viva Pediatrics receive about four to five positive screen results a year, including Sickle Cell Anemia, a serious disorder with no widely available cure. However, treatments can help relieve symptoms and complications. “Each Texas baby is mandated to have two newborn blood screens, one at 24-48 hours of age and the second at the age of one to two weeks,” explained Susan Tanksley, manager of the Biochemistry and Genetics Branch of the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory Operations Unit in Austin. The Texas Newborn Screening Program began as a pilot in 1963 but then was legislatively mandated in 1965. The Newborn Screening Program annually provides about 800,000 screenings, more than any other state in the United States. In addition, Texas is one of only eight states that mandate two screens on every infant. When newborn screening began in 1963, babies were only tested for PKU, explains Tanksley. In 2007 the number of tests was increased to 27, including the addition of a screen for MCAD, a metabolic disApril 2011 | Our Kids 31
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Pediatric Dentist Dr. Blume and staff aim tonurture and support your child’soral health throughout the formative years. We provide contemporary, preventive dentistry in an intimate, fun environment.
order in which the body cannot break down fats. In December 2009, screening for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) was added.
Most major insurance accepted, including Medicaid.
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That additional CF test proved to be a godsend to a Stockdale family whose baby was born just five months after the new tests were launched.
Call (210) 614-3334 for an appointment www.childrensdentistrytx.com
Bryce Tomerlin, born May 19, 2010 in a Seguin hospital, received his Texas mandated heel-prick blood test in the hospital. After his two-week follow-up blood screen at his pediatrician’s office, the doctor notified Bryce’s parents that the baby “had a great chance of having CF.”
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“I was dumbfounded,” said mom, Jennifer, who immediately called her mother for comfort, then searched the Internet to learn that CF is a genetic disease that causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs, and the pancreas doesn’t work properly, leading to severe lung disease and malnutrition without early treatment.
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When Jennifer and husband Nathan contacted Christus Santa Rosa CF clinic they learned that CF is not curable but is treatable. Through the clinic, Bryce was started on special treatments, which include taking enzymes before each meal and breathing treatments twice a day. “Bryce crawls and looks like any normal baby,” says Jennifer about the now 11-month-old child. “It’s just that people don’t know the behind-scenes treatment he gets.” Although the current life expectancy of a child with CF is 37 years, Jennifer is an optimistic, determined mother. “You can fight it, or let it control you; we just jump on the bandwagon and make sure Bryce remains healthy, and we don’t let it control our life.”
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When the state lab detects a positive result, staff immediately springs to action and notifies the pediatrician or primary care physician about the test results. In rare cases, when no doctor is listed, nurses in the DSHS Clinical Care Coordination office call the family and provide the test results with information about the disorder, but the nurse insists that the baby be taken to a doctor right away. “We’ve had cases where the nurse determined from talking to the parents that the baby’s life is in danger. The nurse instructs the parent to take the baby to the nearest emergency room. But in addition, the nurse will ask ‘what is the name of your nearest ER’ and she’ll call ahead to alert that the baby is on the way. “We work very hard to see those babies get into care,” says Tanksley. “It’s always so great to hear when a baby’s life has been saved.” The additions to the blood screens are in great part due to the American College of Medical Genetics panel, which met in 2004 to assess the issues and concerns for the expanded newborn screenings.
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“The panel made a set of recommendations that were subsequently implemented by all states with a gradual phase-in of the number of tests and dates of implementation,” says Guerra, one of 15 physicians and other professionals on the panel. In addition to the heel-prick screening for 28 disorders mandated by Texas law, the state Health and Safety Code also requires each newborn be offered a hearing test. About 1,000 Texas newborns a year are diagnosed with hearing impairment or loss.
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Baby girl Emma Monroe, born on March 17, 2010 in San Antonio, received no positives from the blood tests, but failed her hearing assessment. Nor did Emma pass her second hearing evaluation two weeks later and was referred to an audiologist for a battery of testing. After four months, Emma’s parents, Tressa and Marcus, took her for further testing. The Auditory Brain Stem Response Test revealed mild to moderate bilateral neurosensory hearing loss. Emma is now fitted with pediatric hearing aids. “A 1-year-old with hearing aids is a big challenge,” explains mom Tressa, “because the ear molds are soft she wants to pull them out and chew on them. We are slowly getting her to wear them longer every day, and the goal is to have her wearing them during all waking hours.” “But Emma has a head start,” said Tressa and “with hearing aids she’s going to be fine and will be able to function in a hearing world.” “But with early detection and appropriate technology, Emma will meet her developmental milestones and be able to interact successfully in a hearing world. We know now, in the big picture of things, early detection is the key.” Mary Lance is a San Antonio-based freelance writer, mother of two grown children and grandmother of five.
Resources: • Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) website: www.dshs.state.tx.us/lab/newbornscreening.shtm. To view a video which offers an overview of the TDSHS lab and newborn screening program including a heart-warming story of a newborn who received a positive test result visit: www.dshs.state.tx.us/lab/nbsParentRes.shtm – scroll down to Resources, the second-to-last section, then click on “Watch a Video.” April 2011 | Our Kids 33
Calendar
by MARION ZAMORA
TOP: Family events for all ages are on tap at this year’s Fiesta San Antonio. PHOTO BY JON ALONZO
BELOW: Hands-on art activities are in the spotlight in the Children’s Art Garden at the Fiesta Arts Fair. PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST SCHOOL OF ART
Let’s Fiesta!
April
Fiesta – the Alamo City’s biggest party – gets under way April 7 with plenty of events and activities to enjoy as a family. Here are some suggestions:
34 Our Kids | April 2011
Fiesta de los Reyes: Ten days of Fiesta fun in downtown’s historic Market Square include live music and dance; food booths; and kid-friendly entertainment, games and food in the Reino de los Niños (Children’s Kingdom) area. April 8-17. Free. 514 W. Commerce. www.reyfeoconsejo.org. Viva Botanica!: Youngsters can wear Fiesta attire and join in kids’ parades at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. King and Queen of the Fiesta Flower Court will be crowned at both parades. Also, create your own Fiesta medal and crown, learn the Botanical Shuffle dance, and more. April 9. Free with admission. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. www.sabot.org. 210-207-3255.
Fiesta de los Niños: Homemade floats will lead a parade through Port San Antonio’s Town Center at noon. Also, games, rides, music, dance and food. April 9. Free. 200 Goodrich. www.portsanantonio.us. 210-362-7889. Paseo del Rio Children’s Festival: Event on the San Antonio River includes live entertainment, interactive games, facepainting, clowns, storytelling, wildlife exhibits and children’s activities. April 9. Free. Rivercenter Mall Lagoon. www.paseodelrio.com. 210-227-4262. Fiesta Arts Fair: Juried art by 120 artists from across the United States, live music, and hands-on activities in the Children’s Art Garden. April 9-10. $10 adults; $5 ages 5-12. Southwest School
of Art, 300 Augusta. www.fiestaartsfair.com. 210-224-1848. Fort Sam Houston Fiesta: Fiesta Country Fair includes continuous live entertainment, kiddy carnival, games, military equipment display and food. 6 p.m. military ceremony features a parade, musical performances and a fireworks extravaganza finale. Take lawn chairs. April 10. Free. Fort Sam Houston, MacArthur Field. www.fortsamhoustonmwr.com. Fiesta Pooch Parade: Dress up your favorite pet for the Canine Costume Contest, decorate your kids’ wagon, and take a 5K walk through Alamo Heights. April 16. $25 for one human and pooch; $30 per family and all the family dogs. Alamo Heights Swimming Pool, 200 Viesca. www.therapyanimalssa.org. 210-614-6734. King William Fair: A neighborhood parade, live music and dance, ethnic food, and rides and games in the Kids’ Kingdom. April 16. $7 adults; free for 12 and under. King William Historic District. www.kwfair.org. 210271-3247. San José MissionFest: Live entertainment, food, games and children’s activities. April 17. Free. Mission San José, 701 E. Pyron Ave. www.missionsanjosechurch.org. 210-922-0543. For information on more Fiesta events, see www.fiesta-sa.org or call 210-227-5191.
1 Friday Autism Community Forum: Event for parents, providers and educators of children with autism includes panels on Current Trends in Autism Treatment. Also, Evidence-based Approaches to ASD, Complementary and Alternative Approaches to ASD, and lunch meeting with San Antonio network of autism specialists. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $100, including lunch and session materials, or 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., $60. El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel, 110 Lexington Ave. To register, email amber@acnsa.org, download form at www.autismcommunitynetwork-sa.org or call 210-262-7280. Poteet Strawberry Festival: Three-day event features 14 areas of continuous family entertainment including rodeo performances, concerts with Country & Western and Tejano stars, regional bands, dancers, gunslingers, clowns and a carnival. Children’s stage features Radio Disney, a petting zoo, backyard circus and strawberry eating contests. Sat. schedule includes a parade through downtown Poteet at 10 a.m.; strawberry judging at noon; a rodeo, fiddle contest and strawberry auction at 2 p.m.; American Fireworks display at 10 p.m. No pets. 6 p.m.-midnight tonight; 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Sat.; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. Free admission tonight. $15 per day for ages 13 and up; free for children 12 and under Sat. and Sun. Free parking. 9199 N. Texas 16 in Poteet, 30 min. south of San Antonio. www.strawberryfestival.com. 888-742-8144. Bluebonnet Concert: Children’s Chorus of San Antonio Junior Chorus and Choristers perform their annual spring concert. 7 p.m. Free. Radius Center, 106 Auditorium Circle. www.childrenschorussa.org. 210-826-3447. Free Teen Night: “Art After Dark.” Take a bag of Cheetos, Cheese Puffs or Cheez Doodles for free admission to an evening event for high school students at the McNay Art Museum. They will create sculpture out of non-traditional materials like the art on display in the exhibit “New Image Sculpture.” Artist Kiel Johnson will lead a workshop on creating wearable armor from cardboard, and participants can help make a collaborative sculpture. Actor
Get Listed Items to be considered for the calendar must be received at least six weeks prior to publication. The deadline for the June issue is April 15. Mail calendar items and photographs to: Calendar Editor, Our Kids San Antonio, 8400 Blanco Road, Suite 300, San Antonio, TX 78216, or email to sacalendar@parenthood.com. Information cannot be accepted by phone. If you miss the print deadline, you may submit your event directly to our searchable online calendar at OurKidsSanAntonio.co m. Just click on the “Submit Your Event” link below the Calendar on the home page. Online postings will appear on the Web only.
Looking Ahead to May Feast with the Beasts is set for May 6 at the San Antonio Zoo. WildFest San Antonio runs from May 6-8 at area natural sites. Solar Fest takes place May 7 in Maverick Park, followed by Music Under the Stars May 13 at Mission San José.
April 2011 | Our Kids 35
BELOW: Family entertainment is on the agenda at the Poteet Strawberry Festival, April 1-3. PHOTO BY BRUCE EICHMAN
Calendar
gested donation. Reservations suggested. Friedrich Wilderness Park, 21395 Milsa. www.sanaturalareas.org. 210-372-9124. Amazing Amazon Family Day: “Hide and Seek.” Families with children ages 3-5 can discover how animals hide in the Amazon River’s rain forest by making a camouflage vest. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission. Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. www.wittemuseum.org. 210-357-1900.
Gloria Sanchez will perform Prozac and Cheez Doodles. Event also includes music and food. Space is limited; reservations required. 7-10 p.m. Free. Email education@mcnayart.org or call 210-805-1768. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. www.mcnayart.org.
2 Saturday Children’s Clothing and Equipment Sale: San Antonio Area Mothers of Multiples sale includes strollers, bedding, furniture, children’s clothing, shoes, toys, books, maternity items and more. Cash only. $1 admission. 8 a.m.-noon. Crown of Life Lutheran Church, 19291Stone Oak Parkway. Sale benefits Mothers of Multiples and the Agape Pregnancy Center. Email erinpkirwan@gmail.com. 830-714-4250. Snakes Alive!: Learn about Texas Native venomous and nonvenomous snakes with snakes on display courtesy of the South Texas Herpetology Association. Kid-friendly craft included. 911 a.m. Suggested donation: $3 individual; $5 per family. Phil Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Road. www.philhardbergerpark.org. 210-207-3111 or 210-207-3284. San Antonio Highland Games: Annual event features traditional Scottish heavy athletics, Celtic music and dance, a solo bagpiping competition, parade of Scottish dogs, sheepherding trials, children’s activities in the Kids’ Glen and geneology information in the Clan Village. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. today and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. April 3. $10 adults; $5 seniors and children 12 and younger. www.sahga. Autism Society and AMC Sensory Friendly Films: Area families affected by autism and other disabilities can enjoy monthly films in a safe and accepting environment. No previews or silence policy during movie. Families can take their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks. Today’s film: Hop. 10 a.m. $4. AMC Rivercenter 9, 849 E. Commerce St. Email aglensky@autism-society.org. 301-657-0881, ext. 9015. First Saturday Interpretive Walk: “Windmill and Aquifer.” Hike through the park, visit the windmill and try the new working model of a windmill pump. 10 a.m.-noon. $2 sug36 Our Kids | April 2011
Amazing Amazon Family Day: “Creative Camouflage.” Families can listen to the sounds of the jungle and create an animal that hides and survives, while learning about the role of camouflage on the Amazon River. Noon-2 p.m. Free with museum admission. Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. www.wittemuseum.org. 210-357-1900. Science City Exhibit: Young visitors can explore the new exhibit with museum staff and learn how to think like a scientist. 11 a.m.-noon every Sat. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St. www.sakids.org. 210-212-4453. Art Studio: “Aboriginal Art.” Hands-on activity space for preKElementary where children and caregivers can create art together, led by artist-eductors.11 a.m-1 p.m. every Sat. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St. www.sakids.org. 210-212-4453. “Cardboard Ransom” workshop: Artist Kiel Johnson will lead participants ages 14-plus in constructing a story with 3D words. Noon-3 p.m. $18. Space is limited; registration required. 210-805-1768. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. www.mcnayart.org. 210-805-1768.
3 Sunday Lowrider Festival: Flashy cars, classic cars and lowriders sporting gleaming chrome, luxurious upholstery and artistic paint jobs will be on display at Mateo Camargo Park. Event also includes live music, children’s games, arts and crafts, and food booths. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. $10. Free for ages 16 and under. Park is at U.S. 90 W. and Callaghan Road, across from the Nelson Wolff Baseball Stadium. 210-432-1896. First Sundays for Families: “Stories and Myths Around the World.” Celebrate National Poetry Month and uncover 6,000 years of stories and myths that are still part of today’s cultures. Create a codex and illustrate the Mayan flood story, learn about Herakles and his 12 labors, and find out why Ganesha has the head of an elephant. Includes hands-on activities. 1-5 p.m. Free for ages 12 and under. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. www.samuseum.org. 210-978-8183. Photo Op @ The Cocktail Party: Visit the McNay Art Museum wearing a color that contrasts with Sandy Skoglund’s Cheez Doodles and have your picture taken in front of the artist’s installation. Photo printing will take 15-20 minutes. No personal photos allowed. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free. 6000 N. New
Braunfels Ave. www.mcnayart.org. 210-805-1768.
4 Monday Wild Beginnings: “Native Texas Wildlife.” Early childhood program for ages 2-3 encourages child/adult interaction with stories, songs and animal close-ups. Continues April 11, 18, 25. Reservations required. 9-10 a.m. $30. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184. Zoo Explorers: “Texas Wild.” Early childhood program for ages 3-5 encourages child/adult interaction with stories, songs and animal close-ups. Continues April 11, 18, 25. Reservations required. 11 a.m.-noon. $30. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184.
5 Tuesday Toddler Tuesday: “Ants.” A guided interpretive nature hike on
the trails for ages 3-5 with a parent. Includes a child-friendly activity. 10-11:30 a.m. Suggested donation: $2 per adult; free for children. Strollers welcome. Medina River Natural Area, 15890 Texas 16 South. www.sanaturalareas.org. 210-2073106.
8 Friday Youth Matinee Series: “Sol y Canto presents El Doble de Amigos.” Bilingual, interactive musical fiesta includes plena, son, calypso, reggae and more, featuring songs from the Parents’ Choice award-winning children’s CD. 11 a.m. Free. Carver Community Cultural Center, 226 N. Hackberry St. www.thecarver.org. 210-207-7211.
9 Saturday Celebrate Urban Birds: Learn to use binoculars and take a family hike to look for birds. Flying Wild birding activities included. 9-11 a.m. Suggested donation: $3 individual; $5 per family. Medina River Natural Area, 15890 Texas 16 South. www.sanaturalareas.org. 210-207-3111.
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Calendar
BELOW: Children’s activities take place in the Kids’ Glen at the San Antonio Highland Games April 2-3. PHOTO COURTESY OF SAN ANTONIO HIGHLAND GAMES ASSOCIATION
Hip Hop Underwater Easter Egg Hunt: Ages 5-12 can look for hundreds of colorful eggs in the San Antonio Natatorium pool. 9-11:30 a.m. $2. 1430 W. Durango Blvd. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec. 210-207-3000. Second Saturday program: “Meeting Snakes.” Explore snakes of the San Antonio area with members of the South Texas Herpetology Association. 10 a.m.-noon. Suggested donation is $3 individual; $5 per family. Eisenhower Park, 19399 N.W. Military Highway. www.sanaturalareas.org. 210-372-9124. Kids’ Day: Annual outdoor family event includes a special appearance by Abby Cadabby. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. San Pedro Springs Park, 1315 San Pedro Ave. 210-270-9000. Historic Kindermasken Parade: Children’s costume walking parade, held in conjunction with Folkfest (see next listing), kicks off at 10 a.m. in front of the Brauntex Theater in downtown New Braunfels. Parade dates back to the founding of New Braunfels and is open to all participants. www.nbheritagevillage.com. 830-629-6504. Folkfest: Family heritage festival in New Braunfels features pioneer craft demonstrations, living history re-enactments, musical entertainment, children’s activities, food, and free tours of the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. today, and noon-5 p.m. April 10. $5 adults; $2 ages 6-12, free for 5 and younger. Event is held on the grounds of the 11.5acre Heritage Village, Church Hill Drive, New Braunfels. www.nbheritagevillage.com. 830-629-6504.
10 Sunday Behind the Scenes Adventure: Program for ages 12 and older explores what it takes to maintain the health of more than 3,000 animals. Includes a walking tour of the Nutrition Center, Health Center and keeper’s area, and behind the scenes in an animal area. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations required. 1 p.m. $90 per pair; $60 individual. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184. S.A.fari Kids: “Beautiful Butterflies.” Club for ages 5-7 meets once a month to explore animals around the zoo while building relationships and skills. New topics each month. Parents not required to stay. Reservations required. 1:30-3 p.m. $17. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184.
15 Friday Splashtown Opening Day: Splashtown San Antonio opens at 11 a.m. for the 2011 season, featuring more than 20 acres of slides, rides, rivers and a wave pool. $14.99-$49.99. Free for children under 2 and seniors 65-plus. 3600 North IH-35. 38 Our Kids | April 2011
www.splashtownsa.com. 210-227-1400.
16 Saturday Boerne Birders Family Birding: Families with children interested in birding can check out bird feeders and look for birds along the trails with Tom and Patsy Inglet. Take bird identification books and binoculars; some binoculars available to borrow. 8-10 a.m. Free. Cibolo Nature Center, City Park Road off Texas 46 E., Boerne. www.cibolo.org. 830-249-4616. Everything for Children Sale: Consignment sale sponsored by Concordia MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) includes gently used toys, clothes, furniture, maternity clothes, games, books, accessories and more. 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Concordia Lutheran Church, 16801 Huebner Road. 210-479-1477. Beginners’ Bird Walk: Look for birds in their native habitats, led by an experienced guide. Meet at the Carriage House. 910:30 a.m. $4-$7. Children 2 and younger, free. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. www.sabot.org. 210-207-3250. Super Saturdays: “Animal Babies.” Early childhood program for ages 2-5 encourages child/adult interaction with stories, songs and animal close-ups. Continues May 21, June 18, July 16. Reservations required. 10-11 a.m. $30. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184. Fiesta Storytime: Listen to fun Fiesta stories and learn about the festive San Antonio celebration. 12:30-1:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St. www.sakids.org. 210-212-4453. Fiesta Crowns and Fiesta Kids’ Parade: Make a colorful Fiesta flower crown from 12:30-1:30 p.m. to wear in the museum’s Fiesta Kids’ Parade at 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St. www.sakids.org. 210-212-4453.
S AN A NTONIO A CADEMY
17 Sunday McNay Family Activity: “Cheesy Messy.” Artist Sandy Skoglund used bright orange Cheez Doodles to create “The Cocktail Party” installation. Youngsters can create a sculpture inspired by popcorn, licorice or other types of food. Free with museum admission. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. www.mcnayart.org. 210-805-1768.
19 Tuesday Mother Nature’s Storytime: “Spring!” Program for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. 10-11 a.m. Free. Visitor Center, Cibolo Nature Center, City Park Road off Texas 46 East, Boerne. www.cibolo.org. 830-249-4616. Spring Concert: Youth Orchestras of San Antonio’s Capriccio Strings, Prelude Strings and Music Learning Center students will perform. 7 p.m. Free. Carver Community Cultural Center, 226 N. Hackberry St. www.yosa.org. 210-737-0097.
20 Wednesday Disney on Ice Toy Story 3: See last summer’s movie hit, plus memorable moments from Toy Story and Toy Story 2, in a fastpaced live production on ice. 7:30 p.m. Continues daily through April 24. $18.71-$56.82. Alamodome, 100 Montana St. www.ticketmaster.com. 800-745-3000.
For most students, the elementary years make up about half of their school lives, the foundation for the years to come. Study habits are established and life-long attitudes are developed. Values are formed. Since 1886 The Academy has prepared young men to succeed in life.
www.sa-academy.org San Antonio Academy admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
733-7331
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23 Saturday Skippyjon Jones at The Twig: Event for all ages includes Skippyjon Jones storytime, singing, dancing, snacks, a Skippy keepsake and photos with “Mr. Cocopugs.” 10:30 a.m. Free.
Science Festival for Girls Girls ages 6-18 who are interested in science, mathematics, engineering and technology have an opportunity to interact with female doctors, engineers, professors and pharmacy students at Girls Inc.’s annual RockIt Into the Future Science Festival from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 2. The family friendly event takes place at Rackspace, 5000 Walzem Road, and features hands-on science activities including an introduction to oil refining, the art of suturing, strawberry DNA extraction, the importance of recycling and its impact on our environment, and more fun, educational workshops. Also, entertainment by Radio Disney, snacks and raffle prizes. Admission is free; $6 per passport for children who want to take part in science activities. Group discounts available. Parking is free. For more information, see www.girlsincsa.com or call 210-212-2576.
St. John’s
Lutheran Day School
The heart of Christ... In the heart of the City
Teaching what really matters 6 Weeks - 2nd Grade 502 E. Nueva San Antonio, TX 78205
210-225-2392 www.StJohnsRoosterChurch.org April 2011 | Our Kids 39
Calendar
RIGHT: Leo Lionni Stories comes to Laurie Auditorium on April 29. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S FINE ARTS SERIES
Family Theater Charlotte’s Web – The tale of a little girl named Fern who falls in love with a young pig named Wilbur. Wilbur shares a barn with his friend Charlotte, a large grey spider, and all the other animals. When Wilbur grows up, Charlotte devises a plan to keep him down on the farm and away from the stockyards. Reservations required. 9:45 and 11:30 a.m. Tue.Fri.; 7 p.m. Fri.; 2 p.m. Sat. April 6-May 7. $10 adults, $8 ages 3-17, $2 ages 2 and under. Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. www.magiktheatre.org. 210-227-2751. The Theatre Tots Wow Wow Weather! – The Theatre Tots are a group of friends who sing, dance and laugh, including Pop Star Mo, Rock & Roll TJ and Cowgirl Jessie. All ages can sing along with them as they discover each season of the year and how the weather changes. 10 a.m. Wed., Thu.; 11 a.m. Sat. April 16-28. $5.50. Free for children under age 1. The Rose Theatre, 11838 Wurzbach Road. www.therosetheatreco.com. 210-360-0004. Leo Lionni Stories – Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s puppet theater production is drawn from the books Swimmy,
Frederick and Inch by Inch, featuring Swimmy, a tiny fish; Frederick, a poetic mouse; and an inchworm who measures absolutely everything. Suggested for ages 3 and up. 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. April 29. $9. Laurie Auditorium, 715 Stadium Drive. www.childrensfineartseries.org. 210-340-4060.
Twig Book Shop, Full Goods Building, 200 E. Grayson, Suite 124. www.thetwig.com. 210-826-5087.
30 Saturday
We’re Going Green: Kids can pot their own plant using watersaving polymers, create a UV light detector and experiment with sun print paper. 1 and 2 p.m. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St. www.sakids.org. 210-212-4453.
28 Thursday Cornyval: Three rodeo performances, live entertainment, a carnival, and food and craft booths are highlights of Helotes’ annual event, running through May 1. Also, a weekend family area with All Outdoor Kids’ Cat Fishing, Medicine Wagon and T-Bone the Longhorn Steer, pony rides, a corn-eating contest and more. 5-11 p.m. today. Free. Fri.: 5 p.m.-midnight, $6. Sat.: noon-1 a.m., $6. Sun.: noon-6 p.m. Free. Rodeo performances, $7. Festival grounds, Leslie Road, off Bandera Road in Helotes. www.cornyval.com. 210-695-2103.
29 Friday Tiny Tot Family Campout: Families with children ages 3-5 can roast hot dogs on an open fire, sleep outside in a tent, meet animals and take an evening tour of the zoo. Reservations required. 5:30 p.m.-8:30 a.m. $45 adult; $25 child. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184.
40 Our Kids | April 2011
Cornyval Parade: Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. on Leslie Road near O’Connor High School, with marching bands and floats along Bandera Road and through Old Town Helotes. Free. www.cornyval.com. 210-695-2103. Bluebonnet Time: Lucas Miller – author, songwriter and “singing zoologist” – will sign copies of his new children’s picture book and give a performance of songs and stories that teach about wildlife and science. Bluebonnet Time tells the story of a family who travels to Texas and learns about bluebonnets from their grandmother. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free with garden admission. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. www.bluebonnettime.com. 800-755-4415. Lost & Found Sculpture Art: Celebrate Earth Day by creating recycled sculpture art using found objects from the museum, or take along “junk” from home to make a repurposed masterpiece. 1 p.m. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St. www.sakids.org. 210-212-4453. Wild Texas Campout: Families of all ages can join zoo education staff camping out at a local state park. Take your camping gear, set up your site and gather round the campfire for a picnic meal, songs, stories and time in nature. Following breakfast, join the park’s naturalist on a tour. Reservations required. 2:30 p.m.-11 a.m. $45 adult; $25 child. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. www.sazoo-aq.org. 210-734-7184.
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How to Submit Photos To submit photos via email, click on the SUBMIT PHOTOS button on our home page at www.OurKidsSanAntonio.com. Simply check the photo release, attach your photos and click send. To submit by regular mail, print and sign the release form found online (SUBMIT PHOTOS button). Sign and include the form with your photos and send to: Our Kids San Antonio, 8400 Blanco Road, Ste. 300, San Antonio, Texas 78216, ATTN: Editor.
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Although this month’s theme is Spring Time and Easter, we got so many nice photos of kids and flowers that we decided to run some of the photos in this issue. 1. Reynah’s hand gesture and look makes this photo priceless. “You go girl.” 2. Matthew and Allison play in a field of poppies at The Wildseed Farm. 3. Cameryn enjoys the nice weather in San Antonio on her 1st birthday. 4. Lauren, 3, enjoys spring amid Texas bluebonnets. 5. Gabriel stops to pose for mom although he seems to be wishing to be outdoors.
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6. Jeremiah, 3, thinks his bunny ears are “way cool.” 9 7
7. Five-month-old Jacob is ready for the Easter Bunny. 8. Four-year-old Vanessa sits in a field of wildflowers. 9. Jenna seems intrigued by a butterfly shown in this flower garden.
May & June Themes Themes for May are Flowers and Kids and Mothers and Kids. Deadline to submit photos for the May issue is April 4. Themes for the June issue are School’s Out and Vacations. Deadline to submit photos is May 2.
City Center Health Careers A College Preparatory Public School
FR TUIT EE ION
Enrolling 6th - 11th Grades for Fall 2011 • Open Enrollment for Students Desiring a Challenge • Specialized Focus and AP Courses • Field Based Experiences • Free Before and After School Program • Extracurricular Activities, Clubs and Tutoring • TCSAAL - Regional Champion Math Olympiad 2010
Early Enrollment Meeting* April 9th and May 7th @ 10:00 AM *Note: Register for a Free Net book to be given away in the Fall of 2011
1114 Willow Street • Classroom 3 • St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
210-255-8265 • www.citycenterhc.org