Our Kids Magazine February 2016 by Our Kids Magazine

The Go-To Resource for San Antonio Families Since 1985

FREE February 2016

VALENTINE’S DAY

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KID-RATED FUN

TOSSING OUT

COMFORT ITEMS

Pacifiers, Blankies, Jackets, & Various Stuffed Animals

Magazine

PEACEFUL PLAYDATES CAMP FAIR & GUIDE

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After-party includes: Food Trucks l Music l Art-Making l Birthday Cake For run/walk details and to register visit mcnayart.org/5k. Entry fee through January 31: members $20, nonmembers $30. After January 31: members $25, nonmembers $35. Day of run: members $30, nonmembers $40. This event is in partnership with Athlete Guild LLC.

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February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

table of

February 2016

8 10 14 16 22 24

volume 32 • number 2

PEACEFUL PLAYDATES

HANDLING SQUABBLES BETWEEN FRIENDS AND SIBLINGS DURING PLAYTIME

KID-RATED FUN FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

IDEAS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY PARTIES FOR KIDS

OUR KIDS CAMP FAIR 2016

LEARN WHAT QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN LOOKING INTO CAMPS

PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR SLEEPAWAY CAMP

THE HOW AND WHEN OF LOSING THE LINUS STATUS

HELPING YOUR CHILD GET RID OF COMFORT ITEMS

SENSORY FRIENDLY DENTAL CARE

TIPS SO YOUR CHILD WILL BE MORE COMFORTABLE AT THE DENTIST

6 ON THE APP

6 FAMILY FYI

26 CALENDAR

39 YOUR KIDS

• January Winner • February Giveaway: Peppa Pig DVD

• South Texas SciGirls • Summer Lifeguard Jobs for Teens

• Yamato Drummers of Japan • Camp Fair 2016

Valentine’s Day Kid Photos

On the Cover ISTOCK © SSJ414

CONTENTS

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

IN OUR KIDS

Next month

Accepting Differences Summer of Variety - Day Camps Healthy Snacks To Pack Your Child Assisted Birth Options Is My Child a Brat?

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Editor’s NOTE

azine

Love One Another

Magazine

P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 210-305-4181 Toll Free 866-465-6936 PUBLISHER Rudy Riojas, Ext. 104 EDITOR Laura Warner, Ext. 102

Magazine

CALENDAR Kelley Ramotowski, Ext. 105 ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski, Ext. 101 Magazine DISTRIBUTION Tony Smith, Ext. 106 OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC is a locally owned magazine published monthly. Advertisements Magazine 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. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Find Our Kids Magazine

Happy Valentine’s Day! What a fun holiday, with chocolates and flowers, and most important, people expressing love for one another. This Valentine’s Day, we should all remember to show our kids how much we love them. You could simply write your child a note, telling them how special they are, and how proud you are of them. But don’t forget about your spouse! Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to remind your spouse how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate them. You don’t have to buy them expensive gifts; you could just spend quality time with them and tell them that you love them.

In This Issue When one child feels left out because they’re not included in a playdate, things can get difficult. Find out how to keep the peace in Malia Jacobson’s article, Peaceful Playdates. There are things you can do before and during a playdate to help all children feel included. This month is Our Kids Camp Fair! That’s right, it’s the one stop destination to get all the details about the camps offered in the San Antonio area. For more information about this event, turn to Yvonne Vasquez’s article on page 14. Perhaps your child wants to throw a Valentine’s Day party, but doesn’t want all the romance that comes with it. It doesn’t have to be all mushy gushy. For ideas on KidRated Fun for Valentine’s Day, Renee Haines has some great ideas on page 10. It can be very difficult to get a child to agree to throw away a comfort item. When my parents decided it was time for me to toss my pacifier, it became a family effort. I was offered everything from an ice cream sundae to five dollars just to give up my binky. Tess Alfonsin’s article, The How and When of Losing the Linus Status will help you get some ideas of how and when to help your child get rid of their comfort item. A trip to the dentist’s office can be stressful and uncomfortable; especially for kids with an autism spectrum disorder. In her article, Sensory Friendly Dental Care, Colyn Sanchez discusses some great ways to find the right dentist, and prepare your child for the trip.

at your Local HEB, Public Library, Jim’s, plus 500 other locations

Happy Reading!

Laura Warner

Our Kids Editor

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on the

APP

Family

FYI

South Texas SciGirls

Peppa Pig Dvd Giveaway Oink oink! Register to win the the latest title in the hit Peppa Pig DVD collection - Peppa Pig: Cold Winter Day! The snortingly funny new family release from Entertainment One is now available on DVD and Digital Download. In Peppa Pig: Cold Winter Day, everyone’s favorite friend, Peppa Pig, is ready to show preschoolers how much fun awaits this winter season. Young viewers join Peppa and her family and friends as they build a snowman, throw snowballs, race their sleds and much more!

January Winner Minion Dvd: Eugene Valdez

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

The South Texas SciGirls is a group of girls ages 8-18 in South Texas who love science! The SciGirls group loves to spend their time experimenting, investigating, and creating. They use science to reach goals, solve problems, and help others. Every month SciGirls can participate in an evening OVEE screening. OVEE is an online social screening platform for watching your favorite PBS and local public television programs together. Watch a one-hour PBS STEAM-based documentary moderated by a local specialist.

OVEE Screenings: KLRN’s SciGirls | Season 3, Ep 4 February 2 | 6:30-8:00 pm

KLRN’s SciGirls | Season 3, Ep 5 & 6 March 1 | 6:30-8:00 pm

If you’re a girl 8-18 who loves science, then the SciGirls group is for you! To get a sign up or permission form, and for the mail and email address to send forms, visit http://www.klrn.org/blogs/station-news/ sign-up-to-join-our-scigirls-program/?p21

Parks And Recreation Department’s Lifeguard Clinics Make Landing A Quality Summer Job Possible For Teens

It’s a dream job with great pay for excellent swimmers who love working with people. The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department is hiring more than 200 lifeguards to serve the public at municipal swimming pools. The department is making the hiring process easier by hosting several lifeguard clinics to assist local teens ages 16 and up, college students and adults interested in applying. The starting lifeguard salary is $10 per hour. The clinics will be held on these upcoming Saturdays: Feb. 13, March 5, April 2 and 16, and May 14 and 21, from 12 noon to 2 p.m., at the San Antonio Natatorium, 1430 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. For more information, call 207-3299 or visit www. sanantonio.gov/parksandrec

The Louis A. And Frances B. Wagner Series- Keep It In The Family: Preserving Personal Archival Materials

Do you have an attic full of old photos, handwritten letters or news clippings? Precious items like these are part of your family’s story. How can you ensure their survival for generations to come? On Wednesday, Feb 17, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. join Witte Archivist and Librarian Melissa Gonzales and special guest experts to learn the basics of preserving archival materials and how you can apply them to your own documents and photos. For more information, go to http://www.wittemuseum. org/exhibitions/calendar

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on the

WEB 5 Benefits of Attending Summer Residential Camp Day camps are a summer staple for many families, but sleep-away camps provide an iconic outdoor setting with a wealth of ways to help children grow, expand their horizons and make memories that will last a lifetime. Visit www. OurKidsMagazine.com to read about the five benefits on sending your child to residential camp this summer.

Staying in Touch With Your Child at Camp Writing to your child while he or she is at camp gives them a chance to develop creative language skills and lets them know you care. Give your child a supply of pre-addressed envelopes, postcards and stamps to help them easily keep in touch by mail. Visit www.OurKidsMagazine.com to read the rest of the article.

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February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Feature

Keeping the Peace During Playdates By Malia Jacobson

Playdates were anything but playful for Piper Leslie’s two older children, 11-year-old Kaylee and 10-year-old Kyle. “When we first started playdates, Kaylee was usually the one to have friends over,” she says. “Kyle has Asperger’s syndrome and has a harder time making friends, and I never wanted him to feel left out, so I always made Kaylee include him.” But when fights started springing up between the normally close pair, Leslie knew she needed a new playdate plan of action. In theory, playdates are supposed to be fun, but visits from friends can spark squabbles between even the friendliest of tween siblings. From “She always wrecks everything!” to “It’s my room!” to “You always take his side!” scuffles abound as kids jockey for alone time with pals, stake their claim to bedrooms and playrooms, and try to one-up siblings in an attempt to appear cool in front of their friends. And brokering household peace can leave parents exhausted.

Playdate pandemonium Clinical psychologist Michelle P. Maidenberg, Ph.D., of 8

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

Harrison, N.Y., is a mom of four who referees playdate problems on a regular basis with her three school-age boys, Addison, Foster, and Wyatt. “Sometimes, we’ll have several playdates in a week,” she says. “It’s a constant struggle keeping everyone happy.” So why are playdates such a pain? According to Maidenberg, there’s often more to the problem than meets the eye. Though kids may fight over fairness and alone time with their friends, the real issue at stake is sibling rivalry. Playdates can set the stage for siblings to feel excluded and hurt, and conflicts ignite when one sibling thinks that he’s been wronged, especially if he perceives that another child is being favored. When tempers flare, kids often set parents up to take sides: “Make him leave us alone!” or “Tell her that it’s my room!” Parents should tread carefully, says Maidenberg, because the time-honored tactic of forcing one child to include a left-out sibling in their play can strain sibling relationships. A child who is forced to include a sibling in a playdate may feel resentful and angry, and direct those feelings at the playdate-crashing brother or sister. Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Till Feb 29th!

Playful peacekeeping

Luckily, playdates don’t have to be breeding grounds for sibling rivalry. Instead, they can be exercises in family problem-solving, says Adele Faber, co-author of the New York Times best-seller Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too. Since most playdates are planned in advance, Faber recommends that parents sit down with kids and draw up a pre-playdate action plan. “You know your own kids; you know if one child is going to want alone time with their friend and the other child is going to be moping around,” she says. “So sit down together and ask them, ‘How can we make this playdate fun for everyone?’” When kids are involved in creating a plan, they become invested in the solution, Faber says. Creating a shared plan of action also sends an important message to each sibling: One child doesn’t get to have fun at the expense of another. Every family member has valid needs and ideas. Rivalry diffuses when kids see that they are valued and that one sibling isn’t being favored, she says.

Ideas for inclusion

Planning ahead is ideal, but even the best-laid playdate plans aren’t foolproof. Plans can fall through (for example, when a surprise rain shower keeps everyone indoors) and sometimes planning is impossible (such as when a neighbor knocks on the door for an impromptu playdate). When hectic schedules or weather curveballs make planning impossible, parents can keep the peace by finding activities that everyone can enjoy. Great examples are bowling, ice skating, jumping rope, and active electronic gaming systems like the Nintendo Wii that allow kids of different ages and skill levels to participate side by side. Finding a special “job” for a younger child can help that sibling join in the fun; for board games, younger kids can be in charge of money or rolling the dice, and for an obstacle course, a younger child can be in charge of the stopwatch. After a round of group play, parents can give the child with the playdate some alone time with her pal by asking siblings to help fix a snack for everyone. Leslie found playdate peace when she stopped micromanaging friends’ visits. Instead, she talked with her kids about the importance of kindness and inclusion—and then she stepped back and trusted her kids’ judgment. “I realized it wasn’t Kaylee’s responsibility to keep Kyle entertained. I let them know that while I expect Kaylee and her friend to be kind to Kyle (and vice versa), it’s up to her to decide if she wants to include her brother. Overall, they’re both good about including the other. They know it’s not fun to be left out.”

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published freelance journalist and mom. She blogs about parenting and family health at www.thewellrestedfamily.com.

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February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

PARTY DIRECTORY

Kid-Rated Fun for Valentine’s Day By Renee Haines

Some kids might roll their eyes at the romantic underpinnings of Valentine’s Day, but there are plenty of ways to have fun on Feb. 14 without focusing on the yucky love stuff. For inexpensive parties at home, kids can do their own decorating with those leftover cards that didn’t make it into Valentine exchange boxes at school, perhaps because of the romantic wording. Cut out the pictures, and create a fun party montage glued or taped to poster boards. Heart-shaped candy conversation hearts that have grownup sayings like “love me” and “kiss me” can be repurposed, too. Those boxes of tiny hearts can provide the playing pieces for an inexpensive Valentine’s Day party stacking game. Kids of any age can compete individually or by team to create a stack from balancing one on top of the other. When your stack topples, you’re out of the game. The team or child with the last stack standing wins all the hearts to keep or use to challenge partygoers to another round. To keep this game fun for very young children, keep an extra box of candy hearts on hand. Then, declare everyone the winner of one heart when a stack of just two or three doesn’t tumble to the table. Anastasia McKenna, a former schoolteacher who has spent 16 years as a children’s storyteller, known as Miss Anastasia at the Twig Book Shop in San Antonio, suggests easy craft-making sessions with red paper hearts of 10

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

different sizes. These homemade valentines can be handed out or delivered elsewhere after the party. “Two hearts or four hearts can become a butterfly. Or, little hearts can be stacked into legs for an animal,” says McKenna, who oversees craft-making sessions for young children as part of her free monthly storytelling sessions at the bookstore. What she discovered as her own children became older is that they sometimes preferred to keep their creations. “For some kids, that’s their art, and it can be hard to part with.” With today’s picture-taking smart phones and the Internet, young artists can keep the originals after taking digital photographs and emailing their valentines, McKenna says.

Valentine’s on the go

For a Valentine’s Day weekend celebration on the go, several free or inexpensive kid-friendly events without the love stuff are scheduled in San Antonio Saturday, Feb. 13, and Sunday, Feb. 14. For example, admission to the San Antonio Museum of Art is free from 10 a.m. until noon every Sunday, which in February includes Valentine’s Day. The San Antonio Public Library System is hosting free Come & Go craft-making sessions for young kids and caretakers at the main library and two branches on Feb. 13 and 14. San Antonio Symphony members will visit two library Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

PARTY DIRECTORY branches Feb. 13 for a free show-and-play hour of music. For times and locations, visit mysapl.org/calendar. It’s free Story Time with Miss Anastasia and Lady Bug Girl, plus a tea party and crafts session at The Twig Book Shop in San Antonio Feb. 13 for children accompanied by caretakers. A preschool storytelling session with a Valentine theme is Feb. 12. For more information, visit thetwig.com. Instead of Valentine’s Day, let the kids celebrate Chinese New Year at the family-friendly Asian Festival at the UTSA Institute of Texan Culture in downtown San Antonio on Feb. 13. Ticket prices range from $5 to $10, and kids under 5 are free. For more information, visit texancultures.com/festivals_events/ Asian-Festival_2016.

Parties from the heart

Another way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is with a party from the heart for a good cause. Kids can help other children or animals in need with simple crafts or inexpensive items for donations. A designated grownup can deliver gifts decorated with simple paper hearts signed by the kids and taped to the items. Party decorations can be poster boards decorated with paper hearts and cutout pictures of children at play or puppies and kittens. Kids who love animals can host a party that invites each child to bring a small item they find on the wish list posted at the website of the San Antonio Humane Society at sahumane.org. For example, kids can bring a single can of pet food or an old tennis ball that will become a play toy for stray dogs and cats awaiting adoption at the Humane Society’s shelter. “Being a compassionate person, no matter what age, is so important,” says Humane Society spokeswoman Felicia Nino. At Haven for Hope, a downtown San Antonio center that provides shelter and services for homeless families, including as many as 150 children at a time, “the kids would love to receive Valentines,” says spokeswoman Laura Calderon. Each child at a party from the heart for these kids can bring a wrapped granola bar, package of cookies or peanut butters and crackers snack. “We have a cafeteria here, but at 7 at night, when kids can get hungry, the kitchen is closed,” says Calderon. Young partygoers can sign their name on a paper heart to tape to each wrapped snack. A designated grownup can then make a delivery marked “for the children” to the center. Parties from the heart can encourage kids to think about helping others throughout the year. “Each day, holiday or not, you should wake up and think, ‘What can I do to make someone smile and have a sparkling day,’” says children’s storyteller McKenna.

Renee Haines is a San Antonio freelance writer.

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Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

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Color Clay Studio 210-231-0196 www.colorclaystudio.com Our party room accommodates 12-14 people for only $30. The price per person varies depending on the ceramics they choose to paint ($8-$15). Bring your own food/drink or choose from one of our packages. We also offer canvas classes for $30/person. Check our web site/Facebook page for our monthly calendar.

The DoSeum 2800 Broadway 212-4453 info@thedoseum.org Hands down, The DoSeum offers tons of fun for birthdays! The Exhibit Experience Birthday Bash will include all of the features of the basic Birthday Bash, plus your choice of one of the following themes and a 10-to-20-minute activity: Spy Academy and Little Town. Visit our website for prices and to submit a party request.

Green Tree Tennis Club 681-5261 4721 Callaghan Road www.greentreetennis.com Courtney@greentreetennis.com GREEN TREE is the PERFECT place for your Child’s Birthday Party! If your child is 12 or under, you may choose from our three hour party packet birthday package or our six hour party packet birthday package. If you are 13 or older, our six-hour party packet birthday package is the one for you!

Mad Science of San Antonio 512- 892-1143 210-651-1143 www.austin.madscience.org We have Birthday Parties down to a science! Mad Science birthday parties entertain children with exciting, highenergy, interactive shows that come to you. Your child will enjoy activities such as:Discover objects that float through columns of air! Relish the mystery of fireworks!Watch in amazement as energy lights up a ball of plasma! See in wonder as water takes on an eerie green glow! And much, much more! Parents will love the fact that Mad Science birthday parties are mess-free and hassle-free. Best of all, we provide a satisfaction guarantee!

Pee Wee Bees! 1604 & Culebra Alamo Ranch Shopping Center 210-521-2337 The indoor playground for children 0 - 7 years old! Plan the perfect Birthday Party for your young child. Open 7 days a week. Call for details and to reserve your party.

Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

PARTY DIRECTORY Planet Party 12403 Nacogdoches San Antonio, TX 78217 535-7096 www.planetpartysa.com The King of Indoor Parties. The largest Private Indoor birthday party facility in San Antonio, with fun and entertainment for the whole family! We have a 5,000 sq. ft. facility and we provide an all-inclusive “Party to Go” environment. That means that everything is included with your party package, no tokens or quarters, all you pay is your reservation fee! Call to reserve your party today

Pump It Up of San Antonio, NE 14036 Nacogdoches Rd 653-0700 www.pumpitupparty.com/sanantonio-ne-tx

Pump It Up of San Antonio, NE is the premier kids birthday destination. Our parties are 100% private – that means your family and friends will be together in our private play arena’s and later in a private party room. Kids love it simply because we have gigantically fun bouncy inflatable’s!

Just Add Children 520-2291 7715 Mainland Dr www.justaddchildren.com Celebrating your child’s birthday at JAC = No Stress and No Mess! Enjoy complete birthday bliss from setup to clean up. We do it all for you;; decorating, serving food,cutting cake and loading your vehicle. Customize your party with mascots, glow-in-the-dark, balloon art, cotton candy, popcorn and much more! See you soon!

San Antonio Fire Museum 801 E. Houston San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 390-7236 www.sanantoniofiremuseum.org The San Antonio Fire Museum is offering the hottest parties in town! Located downtown at the Old Fire Station # 1. Private parties for up to 30 guests. Great photo opportunities on a real fire truck. Group activities facilitated for the children. Party hostess available to help from set up to clean up. Choose a Do-ItYourself party package or let us do all the work for you. Gift for the birthday child. Fun, memorable activities for all ages. Call for availability and pricing.

The Little Gym 2 Locations 822-9252 Alamo Heights 545-3770 NE San Antonio www.thelittlegym.com For birthdays: The Little Gym was named the Best Gym Party by Parents Magazine! Your group will have the whole place to yourself with games, music, gymnastics and fun activities led by our amazing instructors. We will handle everything from setup to cleanup, making it fun and stress-free for you.

Summer Fun University Bowl 12332 IH 10 West 210-699-6235 www.ubbowl.com

Sign up for two free games of bowling Monday thru Friday from 9am to 5pm. Open to kids ages 15 and under. Parents and caregivers can buy a season pass for $40 and receive two free games per day as well. June 1 - Aug 1.

The Witte Museum 210-357-1866 3801 Broadway www.wittemuseum.org Have a one of a kind party experience at the Witte Museum! It’s educational fun and an extraordinary venue for a birthday celebration and one that every child will remember for years to come! Come join us for your next party!

RENTALS & SUPPLIES Dayanni’s Special Events, Catering and Party Rentals 28991 IH10 W #250 Boerne 830-446-9517 Funny Bone 210-490-3866 We rent waterslides and moonbounces with popcorn and snow cone machines. Call for prices.

Soccer couldn’t be more of a Contact Sport...UNTIL NOW!! Come join in on the bashing fun!! Rent for:

• Soccer Games • Birthday Parties • Church Groups • Fundraisers

210-827-8588

knockerballsa@gmail.com

www.knockerballsanantonio.com

$149 Birthday Special is Back!

10 person party $149 call for details

New fitness Hours Tuesday 8p.m. & Thursday 6:30

First class is free 210-697-JUMP Huebner & I-10 (5867) Monday Funday

4 people jump for plus Call Now to Book 2 hours for $40 tax

www.AltitudeSA.com

KnockerBall San Antonio, New Braunfels & San Marcos Our place or yours; lndoors or Out 210-827-8588 www.knockerballsanantonio.com KnockerBall, or Bubble Soccer, is the newest, most exciting new sport to hit America in years! A KnockerBall is an all encompassing, very protective and safe ball of air with inner handles and shoulder straps that enables you to literately defi gravity, roll, flip, bounce and Knock into one another. Knockerball is great for Birthday Parties, Church Groups, School Functions, Fundraisers and Corporate Events. We can coordinate the games that are played or you can come up with your own, its entirely up to you! We offer both kid and adult sizes.

Parties, Picnics and Promotions 210-494-0090 www.partiespicnics.com Casino Nights, Carnivals, Fundraisers, Festivals & Company Picnics. Email us at sales@partiespicnics.com

Super Jump 210-653-2028 www.SuperJumpSA.net Specials every month! We rent jumpers, water and dry slides, combo slides, dunk tanks, tables & chairs, kids tables & chairs, canopies & tents, fans, port-o-potties, generators, snowcone and cotton candy machines, nacho, popcorn and hot dog

CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

SeaWorld San Antonio Opens February 6

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo February 11 – 28

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Opens February 28

PLAN YOUR VACATION AT

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

CAMP GUIDE

CAMP FAIR Gears Up For Another Camp Year By Yvonne Vasquez

So you’re thinking about sending your child to camp, but you don’t quite know where to start. Why not get your questions answered by attending Our Kids Magazine’s 20th Annual Camp Fair? The event takes place February 28th, 2016 at the San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., from 1 to 4 p.m. Parents who attended camp in their youth are familiar with traditional settings that feature classic outdoor activities like campfires, swimming, horseback riding and kayaking. These getaways are still very popular. But today’s camps offer more exciting options for your child than ever before! Camps are currently available for children ages 2-17. Start planning now and get your child involved with the decision as much as possible. In this way, your child will be able to fully appreciate and look forward to the experience. Popular camps get filled very quickly, so the sooner you select one, the better your chances are. Ask your child what kinds of pursuits he or she would be most interested in when considering camp activities. In addition to more familiar interests, don’t forget to also ask whether there are any new skills your child might want to consider learning. Has your child shown interest in particular sports, like golf, basketball or tennis? If so, many specialty camps are designed to cater to these specific activities. In addition, specialty camps can feature art, music, theatre, science, nature, or computer technology as the main focus. Academic, leadership and career-focused camps are also available. If your child has an adventurous streak, travel camps are designed with this in mind. Campers can enjoy mountain biking, canoeing, cave exploration, rope courses and zip-lining, among other exciting ventures. Travel camps may also include travel abroad. Children with physical, mental or learning disabilities can attend various special-needs camps. Some 14

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

focus on children with specific disabilities. Others blend interaction among children with and without special needs. Preschool day camps are designed for children ages 2 to 4 1/2 years. If you are wondering about age-readiness for overnight camp, the answer largely depends upon your child’s level of independence. Some children may not be comfortable going to an overnight camp and will be more suited to a day camp arrangement, especially younger age groups. By age 11, most kids are learning to be more self-reliant as they enter middle school. This is often the ideal age for children to attend camp for the first time. Once you’ve chosen a few camps to consider, do your research and find a program that is a good fit for your child. It’s also a great idea to check parenting websites for camp reviews from other parents. You should start by asking about the director’s background and experience, and the ratio of staff to campers. Typically, recommended ratios are one staff member to every six campers ages 7-8; one staff member to every 10 campers ages 9-14; and one staff member for every 12 campers ages 15-17. Check to ensure that staff members at specialty camps have a high level of training and expertise in their respective fields. Inquire as to hiring staff criteria, such as minimum age, level of experience and whether criminal background checks are performed. Find out the camp’s philosophy (statement of goals) and decide whether it is compatible with your own parenting style. Review typical planned activities, daily schedules and age range of campers. For outdoor or overnight camps, investigate safety records, ask what kind of security is available and look into whether any dangerous areas exist in the park. Ask about how medical care is handled, especially in emergency situations. Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

CAMP GUIDE Be sure to verify tuition costs, and inquire about any hidden or additional expenses, and whether they have a refund policy. Ask overnight camp staff about conditions of sleeping areas and bathrooms, as well as how homesickness is managed. For daytime camps, confirm camp hours, transportation/driver experience, and whether lunch is provided. Our Kids Camp Fair is an excellent opportunity for parents to meet representatives from camps, summer programs, schools and childcare providers throughout the city and surrounding areas. You won’t want to miss this chance to explore so many wonderful camp options for your child. You’ll be glad you did! Yvonne Vasquez is a freelance writer who has written for various companies in the San Antonio area for the past twenty-five years. Yvonne has one son, Eric (24), and is a San Antonio native.

Staying in Touch With Your Child at Camp By Yvonne Vasquez

Writing to your child while he or she is at camp gives them a chance to develop creative language skills and lets them know you care. Give your child a supply of pre-addressed envelopes, postcards and stamps to help them easily keep in touch by mail. Send your child an encouraging letter before she leaves so that it is waiting for her when she arrives. Take care not to emphasize how much the child might be missing home. Your questions should be simple for your child to answer. Don’t be surprised if your child’s letters or comments are brief and/or infrequent. Mail can also take a little longer than normal to reach you from camp. Some camps do have limited email service available. Usually, campers can only receive email, not send out messages. Other camps will even upload photos to a camp website for viewing by parents. Make sure you review the camp’s rules, as care packages may not be allowed. If packages are acceptable, food is often not allowed. Books, magazines, stickers, puzzles and games are generally acceptable at many camps. Sometimes parents can be distressed by a “homesick” letter. Your response should be sympathetic but focus on the positive aspects of the experience. Remind your child that often these are temporary feelings, but if these letters continue or appear serious, contact the camp director. Keep in mind that many camps do not allow children to have cellular phones. It can take some getting used to, but remember that it won’t last forever and your child will have a better camp experience without the distraction of a phone. CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

SUMMER CAMPS &

JUMP ROPE Team TEAM PERFORMANCES WEEKLY PRACTICES IMPROVE ATHLETIC SKILLS LEARN SINGLE, LONG ROPE, DOUBLE DUTCH, AND MORE Join our team or call us to schedule a performance.

INSTRUCTION AFTER SCHOOL OPEN TO ALL AGES GET FIT, HAVE FUN

BIRTHDAY PARTIES sanantonio.madscience.org Fun and Hands-on! Exciting Experiments

Available to start a program at your facility.

For Ages 4-12

WE HOST BIRTHDAY PARTIES TOO!

We want you to jump with us!

Coach Bobby Barrera / Phone: 210-269-0725

E-Mail: coachbobby7755@gmail.com

Call Today:

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.coachbobbysports.com

210-651-1143

The Clowvazar Academy ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION • K-12 • YEAR-ROUND

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS • ASSEMBLIES • BIRTHDAY PARTIES • WORKS SPECIAL EVENTS • SPRING BREAK & SUMMER CAMPS• PRESCHOOL PROG

General Ed., Special Ed., Gifted-And-Talented

Differentiated Education

for children with anxiety, learning challenges such as dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, or autism, or those simply needing a small class environment. We place students in learning groups based on ability not age.

Apply Online Today!

www.clowvazar.com | 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120, San Antonio TX 78249

2016 Spurs Summer Basketball Camps

Eight Camp Sessions June & July Boys & Girls, Ages 6-18

SPURS.COM/CAMPS 210-444-5021 @SpursCamps

SpursCamps

Sponsored By:

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

CAMP GUIDE

Preparing Your Child for Sleepaway Camp By Denise Yearian

Sleepaway camp is a wonderful, growth-filled experience. Parents, however, may underestimate the benefits of residential camp and what it will do for their child. “Some parents think their money is better spent elsewhere, particularly if they themselves did not attend sleepaway camp as a youngster,” says Doron Krakow, national director of Young Judaea Camp. “But it provides your child with invaluable life lessons, such as how to be independent, responsible and make diverse friendships.” So how do you go about finding the right sleepaway camp? First, talk it over with your child. What are his or her interests? Finding a camp with activities your child will enjoy is important. At the same time, encourage them to try new things. “Just because your child likes soccer, doesn’t mean he might not like – or be good at – arts and crafts,” says Krakow. “Camp is a great place to try something different, because everyone is having new experiences.” Once your child has decided upon the type of camp they want, explore the options. Find out about the various programs each one offers and ask plenty of questions. According to Krakow, most parents find out whether there’s quality instruction and enough time for their child to participate in the said activity, and stop there. But they should take a look at the big picture. “Probe to learn about other segments of the program,” he says. What concepts or philosophy does the camp espouse? What will my child do through the course of a typical day?” If the camp has a brochure, read it carefully. This way you can match your agenda with that of the camp’s and provide the experience you want for your child. Not sure if your child is developmentally ready for residential camp? Have a trial run. Send them to visit a relative for the weekend. How did they do away from home? Did he or she sleep well? Were they able to care for themselves (brushing teeth, taking a bath, changing clothes)? Did they adjust to new or different foods? These and other questions will help you decide if your child is ready for camp. Even if your child did well on a trial run, spend a few minutes talking with the camp director. Tell them about your child – how he or she interacts with other children, their level of participation in school, etc. Above all, don’t let your own apprehensions keep you from 16

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

sending your child away to camp. “If you keep them home because of your anxiety about separation, you’re shortchanging them,” says, Krakow. “If your youngster is asking to go away to camp, chances are they are ready.” On the first day of camp, help your child get settled, then leave. “Don’t stick around too long,” says Krakow. “If you drive your child to camp, they may cling to you on the way up. Remember, this is something new, and it’s natural, even for a veteran camper to be a little hesitant.” Once there, however, many kids will shift from clingy to embarrassment in front of their friends, and parents are often slow to pick up on this. Several weeks before your child attends camp, keep their schedule open and stress-free. This will allow them plenty of time to relax and prepare for the big event. If, for example, your family comes back from a vacation on Friday and you scoot your child off to camp on Sunday, they may experience some anxiety and tension. A better idea is to plan major summer events with a break in between. On the last day of camp, arrive on time, and come prepared with a few extra plastic bags. You may need them, especially if your child has wet clothes or muddy shoes that need to be transported. On the ride home, listen to your child. More than likely they’ll be eager to share their experiences with you – who they met, what they did, and the funny things that happened. And if you look really close you may find he’s grown a little. Not just in height, but in depth of character. Camp has a way of helping kids grow by boosting their self-esteem, increasing their sense of responsibility and helping them mature in their relationships with others. Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and four grandchildren.

Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

CAMP GUIDE SPRING CAMPS Spring Break Sports & Tennis Camps Green Tree Tennis Club 210-681-5261 4721 Callaghan Rd www.greentreetennis.com March 14 - 18

Choose from either our very popular all day sports camp (8-5:30 pm ) or our wonderful tennis camps (10 am-2 pm) for elementary, middle school, or high school age players. Learn tennis; improve your tennis skills and have lots of fun in any of these camps! Save $$$ with early bird registration!

The DoSeum Spring Break Camps 2800 Broadway 210-212-4453 www.thedoseum.org info@thedoseum.org

Your child has the chance to tackle challenging STEM concepts with hands-on project-building, unleash their inner-artists with collaborative art pieces, explore creative ways to educate others about the environment, and more!

The Magik Theatre 420 S. Alamo, San Antonio 210-227-2751 Magiktheatre.org March 14 - 18

Engage your body, voice, and mind to explore storytelling, create characters, make new friends, and build confidence at the Magik Theatre this spring break. Spring Break Camp will run from March 14 - March 18 with a final showcase performance on March 18. Register now at magiktheatre. org.”

Witte Museum Spring Break Camps 210-357-1910 3801 Broadway San Antonio www.WitteMusuem.org March 14 - March 18, 2016

Enjoy two new options for Witte Museum Camps this spring. Spend your mornings in the kitchen and your afternoons on the range! Join us for morning or afternoon sessions only, or for the entire day! A week of half-day camp is $180 for memebrs and $230 for non-memebrs. A week of full days, including both camps, is $230 for members and $280 for non-members.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

Boys’ Camps Camp Mondamin for Boys P.O. Box 8, Tuxedo, NC 28784 800-688-5789 mondamin@mondamin.com www.mondamin.com

Ages 7 - 12 • Aug. 5 - Aug. 18 $3000 - August Camp is a two week session designed to introduce campers to the program at Mondamin. The time allows for great friendships and experiences such as independence and working toward goals. We will touch on all of our activities and take many overnight trips. The short period is an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of camp fun.

Camp Rio Vista for Boys 175 Rio Vista Road, Ingram, TX, 78025 830-367-5353 www.vistacamps.com

Ages 6-16 June 7 – July 30 $1,550- $2,650 A Texas Summer tradition since 1921. Beautiful facilities, fun-filled program, exciting activities and dedicated staff provide a memorable learning environment for your son. We emphasize fun, confidence and success!

Camp Stewart for Boys 612 FM 1340 Hunt, TX 78024 830-238-4670 www.campstewart.com

Ages 6-16 • June 5 - Aug. 5 $2,800 - $4925 Camp Stewart for Boys is a privately owned, Christian-oriented, non-denominational camp for boys ages six to sixteen. We are located in the heart of the famed Texas Hill Country, near headwaters of the Guadalupe River.

Texas Catholic Boys Camp – Camp Tecaboca Mountain Home, TX 5045 Junction Hwy, Ingram, TX 78025 830-866-3425 office@tecaboca.com www.tecaboca.com

Ages 7-14 • June 12 -July 8 $775 - $1,275 A boys camp offering horseback riding, archery, canoeing, swimming and bead craft, with morning prayer and evening campfire stories.

Girls’ Camps Camp Honey Creek 401 Honey Creek W. 830-238-4630 chc@camphoneycreek.com www.camphoneycreek.com

Girls develop a positive attitude and grow in a caring, safe and wholesome atmosphere.

School is out Come to Camp! Presidents’ Day Camp February 15

Children Love To Paint! Register Online: www.theroyalcanvas.com or By Phone: (210) 826-7246 5005 Broadway St, San Antonio TX 78209

Sports Camp June 6-Aug. 19

SPORTS CAMP • WEEKLY M-F 8:00a.m.-5:30p.m.

(includes tennis and swimming)

TENNIS CAMP • WEEKLY M-F 10:00a.m. - 2:00p.m. (includes swimming)

GROUP PARTIES! • Birthday • Team Sports • Perfect for Company Picnics

www.greentreetennis.com

Spr Bre ing Camak March ps 14-18

Green Tree TENNIS CLUB

4721 Callaghan Rd. (easy access from all parts of town)

681-5261

Camp La Jita Utopia, TX (on the Sabinal River) 210-349-2404 or 800-580-7247 www.girlscouts-swtx.org.

Ages 7-18 Sports, horseback riding, canoeing, dance, crafts, backpacking, swimming, archery, photography, etc. Non-Girl Scouts welcome. Please visit our website for more information.

Camp Sierra Vista for Girls 175 Rio Vista Road, Ingram, TX, 78025 830-367-5353 sierravista.dir@gmail.com www.vistacamps.com

Small, private, traditional camp in the Texas Hill Country. A summer tradition of fun, friends, exciting activities, lifelong memories and life-changing experiences.

Heart of the Hills Camp for Girls 2430 Hwy. 39, Hunt, TX 78024 830-238-4650 info@hohcamp.com www.hohcamp.com

Ages: 6-16 • June 5 – Aug. 5 $2,800- $4,925 Liberating all-girls atmosphere, Guadalupe River, air-conditioned. Family style dining. Worldwide enrollment, personable! Fun, instruction-oriented, doing the right thing; more than 40 activities. Family owned, operated.

iD Tech Camps 1888-709-8324 www.iDTech.com

Camps are held at Trinity, St. Edward’s, Rice, University of Houston, and more. Inspired

CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

CAMP GUIDE by hip, tech-savvy instructors, ages 7-17 code apps, design video games, mod with Minecraft, engineer robots, build websites, produce movies, and meet friends with similar interests. Also in Texas: Alexa Café (all-girls, ages 10-15) and 2-week, precollege Teen Academies for ages 13-18.

Kickapoo Kamp for Girls 304 Upper Turtle Creek Road, Kerrville, TX 78028 830-895-5731 www.kickapookamp.com

Kickapoo’s enrollment of 100 girls ages 7 to 17 enables counselors to give individual attention to campers and stress traditional values.

Rocky River Ranch P.O. Box 109 • Wimberley, Texas 78676 512-847-2513 www.rockyriverranch.com

Ages 7-14 • June 5 – Aug 5 • 1-Week $975 | 10-Day $1550 | 2-Week $1950 Located in the heart of the beautiful Texas hill country in Wimberley, Rocky River Ranch has been operating as a private summer camp for girls since 1953. We are a residential summer camp offering three different session lengths and a wide variety of activities.

Co-ed Camps Camp Balcones Springs 104 Balcones Springs Drive, Marble Falls, TX 78654 830-693-CAMP info@campbalconessprings.com www.campiscool.com

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.

Camp Cho-Yeh and Conference Center 2200 S. Washington, Livingston, TX 77351 936-328-3200 www.cho-yeh.org

Camp Cho-Yeh is a co-ed Christian summer camp just north of Houston, Texas serving campers age 6-16. At Camp Cho-Yeh, we firmly believe that a week of summer camp can be one of the most powerful and lifechanging experiences in a young person’s life. Our vision is to build relationships and impact lives in a Christ-centered environment. Established in 1947, ACA accredited.

Camp Lone Star 2016 Camp Lone Star Road, La Grange, TX 78945 877-452-0099 info@lomt.com; www.lomt.com

from waterskiing to golf to horseback riding, so campers get to choose the activities that interest them. Children learn responsibility and cooperation at camp while gaining independence and selfesteem.

Deer Creek Camp Medina, Texas 78055 830-589-7123 www.deercreekcamp.com

Deer Creek Camp is located in Medina, Texas. We are a Christian Adventure Camp where we capture both the stunning outdoors and a Christ-centered community. From swimming in the Medina River to riding down the longest tandem zip line in Texas. Come see for yourself why Deer Creek Camp is The Place to Be.

His Hill Ranch Camp Overnight & Day Camp PO BOX 9, Comfort, TX 78103 830-995-3388 camp@hishill.org www.hishill.org

Overnight Camp $530 • Day Camp $250 His Hill Ranch Camp is a Christian, nondenominational overnight & day camp offering 1 week sessions through the summer. His Hill is a wonderful place for young people to be taught about Jesus Christ from God’s Word while having fun in the outdoor life of the Hill Country. Dates are: June 19 - August 12, 2016.

Mo-Ranch Summer Camp 2229 FM 1340, Hunt, TX 78024 800-460-4401 ext. 250 or 253org www.summercamp.MoRanch.org

Ages 8 – 15 • June 5 – July 23 $695 for one week sessions and $1,400 for two week sessions. We are a co-ed, residential camp located within one of the Hill Country’s most beautiful conference centers; the Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly. Located along the Guadalupe River, Mo-Ranch sits on almost 500 acres of gorgeous Hill Country property. We offer a wide range of traditional camp activities including archery, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and rock climbing.

Pine Cove Christian Camps Tyler & Columbus, Texas 877-4-Pine-Cove www.pinecove.com

Grades 2 – 12 Pine Cove Youth Camps offer non-stop fun, recreation and the opportunity for you to really get to know Jesus.

Sky Ranch 24657 Country Road 448, Van, TX, 78790 903-266-3300 800-962-2267 www.skyranch.org

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.

Located in East Texas, Sky Ranch is a GREAT Christian camp offering activities such as Blob, Waterslides, Zip-lines, Jet-skis, paintball and so much more.

Camp Olympia 723 Olympia Drive, Trinity, TX 75862 800-735-6190 www.campolympia.com

YMCA Camp Flaming Arrow Hunt, Texas 1-800-765-9622 ymcacampflamingarrow.org. www.campflamingarrow.org Call for rates and schedule

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 40 activities, ranging

YMCA Camp Arrow in Hunt, Texas, overnight camp with climbing walls, ropes challenge courses, horseback riding, canoeing, archery, river slide and rope

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

swing, new swimming pool, nature studies, sports activities, campfire fun!

SPECIAL NEEDS Camp Agape Bereavement Camp for Children Burnet, TX 214-674-1205 info@campagapetexas.org www.campagapetexas.org.

Ages 7-12 • Camp Agape’s Children Summer Session will be held August 5th8th at Forest Glen Camps, $50 application fee that is refunded at the end of camp. Camp Agape is a non-denominational, Christian-based program that supports children and families who are grieving the loss of a loved one. The trained staff and volunteers are committed to sharing the belief that through Christ there is HOPE, and will provide a safe and nurturing environment for the children to heal from the pain of grief.

Charis Hills Camp Ingram, TX 888-681-2173 info@charishills.org www.charishills.org

Ages 7 – 18 · $1,300, weekly sessions 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.

Deer Creek Christ Special Needs Week Camp Bandera County, TX (outside Medina on Hwy. 337) 830-589-7123 pambehling@deercreekcamp.com www.deercreekcamp.com

Friend’s Week will be August 1-5, 2016. The Friend’s week rate is $800 per camper. This week of camp is filled with fun activities that enable each camper to step out of their comfort zone, make new friends, and grow in their faith. Some of these include swimming in the pool, performing in our annual Talent Show, singing songs at Team Meeting, playing sports, doing arts and crafts, and so much more.

CHILDCARE Country Home Learning Center 8 locations in San Antonio 210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com

We offer a distinctly innovative environment that allows our children the opportunity to leave their classrooms each day and explore various themed areas for challenging “hands-on” learning and fun exploration. These specialized areas include our Language Arts and Discovery Center, Movie Theater, Computer Lab, Arts & Crafts Center and Country Home Soda Shop! Full and part time for infant – age 13. Drop-ins accepted. Hours are 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

DAY CAMPS & SUMMER ACTIVITIES Bits, Bytes, & Bots of San Antonio 850-226-1888

Cutting edge innovation in STEM education. We build your child’s technical skills and confidence in a fun and safe environment. Hands on – each student has a computer or

robot! Week-long morning and afternoon campsinclude video game making, robotics with the LEGO EV3 Mindstorm kits and Minecraft Mechanics.

Carver Performing Arts Camps 226 N Hackberry San Antonio 78202 210-207-2719, Andrew Gordon thecarver.org/education

The Carver offers two very affordable, professional performing arts camps, both culminating in public performances. Tuition assistance is available for qualifying lowincome households. Online registration begins March 1, 2016. Theatre Camp: June 6-25, 8AM-4PM, ages 6-18; tuition, $200; The Renaissance Guild, instructor Dance Intensive: July 11-22, 8AM-4PM, ages 8-18; tuition, $200; Dallas Black Dance Theatre, instructor.

Country Home Learning Center Call 210-687-1002 for nearby location www.countryhomelearningcenter.com

Our exceptional Summer Camp program includes daily field trips to exciting, funfilled places. Campers enjoy our Waterpark, Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground, Putt-Putt 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.

Color Clay Studio – Summer Camp 17327 IH 35N, suite 202, Schertz 210-231-0196 www.coloclaystudio.com

Grades 1 – 5th Be ready for some fun this Spring and Summer! We will be offering week-long classes that will give students the opportunity to experience a variety of FUN-FILLED lessons such as drawing, painting, chalk pastels and clay sculpture just to name a few. Call us to inquire about the Program, dates, and prices.

Country Home Learning Center 8 locations in San Antonio 210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com

Join us for an INCREDIBLE Summer Camp Experience! *Kinder – 13 years *Child Approved Special Events *Fun-filled days with activities every child enjoys *Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs *Exciting Weekly Field Trips.

Discovery World Learning Northwest - 210-691-0064 Northeast – 210-655-6941 Downtown – 210-225-7464

Our annual Summer Camp for ages 6 – 12 years old returns this summer. We combine our educational curriculum with an emphasis on discovery and exploration to provide a fun filled summer full of exciting field trips and informative lessons taught through arts & crafts. Each day includes free, nutritious, homemade meals, which align with our mission to keep your children healthy and active. Call your nearest location for more information.

The DoSeum Summer Camps The DoSeum 2800 Broadway St 210-212-4453 thedoseum.org/camps

Keep learning and fun going all summer long with The DoSeum’s summer camps!

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CAMP GUIDE St. Thomas Episcopal School

Celebrating a Decade of LOVE! Thank You San Antonio! We started in 1998 in borrowed water. This led to year-round swim lessons in three state-of-the-art, indoor facilities of our own. Because of you, we’ve taught over 1 MILLION lessons since opening our first location in 2006, making us San Antonio’s premiere, locally owned swim school. Thanks, SA, for choosing love!

St. Thomas Summer Sensations has 2 unique programs Summer Pride

3 year olds through completed Kindergarten

Tiger Connections

Choose LOVE for Your Kiddo

Kindergarten - 5th grade 7 weeks - whole and half day camps available

100% Child-Centered Highly Trained Staff

June 13 - July 29

State-of-the-Art, Indoor Facilities

A variety of camps to choose with weekly themes. Art, Drama, Sports, & more! Sign up for one week or the entire 7 weeks. We offer AM and PM extended care.

Mommy Owned and Operated

Registration begins March 1

Mention Ad and we will waive one week’s registration fee.

210-494-3509

www.stthomaskids.com

Lessons • Preschool • Parties • Gifts

Magik Adventures!

Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach January 22-February 28, 2016

www.love-to-swim.com BEATS BOYS DRAMA QUEENS ART FIENDS DANCE MACHINES AND MORE

8 WEEKS

$50 PER STUDENT PER CLASS

When James is sent by his aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion which results in a tremendous peach. Suddenly, James finds himself in the center of the gigantic peach on a journey with human-sized insects with equally oversized personalities. Thanks to James’ quick wits and creative thinking, the travelers learn to live and work together.

SATURDAYS march 19 - may 7 REGISTRATION BEGINS FEB 15

SUMMER CAMPS

REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 1

Downtown/Hemisfair | (210) 227-2751 420 S. Alamo | San Antonio, Texas 78205 15% discount on up to 4 show admissions with code OURKIDS15. Not good with any other offers or discounts. magiktheatre.org

Registration is open for spring classes! TWO convenient locations: downtown and northside Reservations required for all shows - go online or call us!

CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

210.207.2719 226 N HACKBERRY 78202 210.207.2619

MC 1/16

THECARVER.ORG/EDUCATION February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

CAMP GUIDE

SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP!

Your child can engage in large-scale collaborative art pieces, challenging hands-on STEM investigations, and more—all taking place in our indoor and outdoor exhibit space. Whether your child is a future painter, engineer, or a combination of the two, The DoSeum offers a wide variety of programs for kids ages 3-11. Registration begins March 1st, 2016.

Green Tree Tennis Club 4721 Callaghan Rd. San Antonio, TX 78228 681-5261, www.greentreetennis.com All Day Sports & Tennis Camp

For children Ages 1st - 5th Grade June 6 – August 19, 2016

Monday - Friday 7 am – 7 pm Interactive Faith-based Curriculum State-of-the-art Facility Field Trips

Weekly, monthly or full session $185 weekly rate One-time Registration Fee - $100 Discounts Available For: Military, First Responder, Sibling More Information: thelearningcenter @outlook.com 210-402-0565 ext. 2000

www.summitsa.com Summit Christian Learning Center 2575 Marshall Road San Antonio, TX 78259 20

Monday – Friday from 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 weekly sessions running June 6 – August 19. Save $$ with package discount and early bird pricing.

Half Day Tennis Camp Monday

– Friday from 10 am – 2 pm for juniors ages 6-18 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 plus pool time! Eleven sessions running from June 6 through Aug. 19. Save $$ with package discount and early bird pricing.

Swim America Swim Lessons

Monday-Friday with morning & evening times for children ages 3 yrs. and older. We teach America to swim for fun and fitness. Weekly sessions with morning and evening times. Beautiful pool area plus experienced instructors. Classes are small and children are grouped according to age and skill level. Nine weekly sessions running June 6 through Aug. 5.Save $$$ with package discount and early bird pricing.

Summer

“COMBO”

Program

Monday – Friday 9 -10:40 am Tennis and swim instruction for children ages 5 – 12 years old who are beginning tennis. Weekly sessions run Monday through Friday. Basic tennis fundamentals and skills along with stroke production are taught. “Swim America” Swim Lessons are provided in our beautiful pool area! Classes are grouped 4 – 6 children/ instructor according to age and skill level. Nine weekly sessions running June 6 through Aug. 5. Save $$ with package discount and early bird pricing.

His Hill Ranch Camp Overnight & Day Camp PO BOX 9, Comfort, TX 78103 830-995-3388 camp@hishill.org www.hishill.org

Jump Rope Express 269-0725 Coach7755@aol.com www.ezteamz.com

Jump Rope Express is a Jump Rope Program impacting young people through

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

fitness and fun while developing selfconfidence, sportsmanship, and character and promoting comradery. Each child works at their own pace, with focus on the “fun” factor to achieve success. This program will inspire many young people to embark on a lifetime of fitness and develop friendships that last a lifetime.

Love to Swim and Tumble School 15502 Huebner Rd. Ste 111 210.492.2606 6044 FM 3009, Schertz 210.566.4096 20210 Stone Oak Parkway 210.702.3444

Let’s make this a NO BUMMER SUMMER! We will have awesome weekly active camps with a different theme each week. This non-stop blast of fun and learning will include Arts and Crafts, Swimming, Reading Time, Camp Songs and Games, Dress Up, Imagination and much more!

Mad Science Camp San Antonio 651-1143 Sanantonio.madscience.org

nurturing, and fun environment for students ages 5 - 18. There are over 100 diverse classes available for students to attend and each week brings a new selection. Each class is taught by a professional artist and artist educators who help develop students’ individual expression. Both morning (9:00am - 12:00pm) and afternoon (1:00pm 4:00pm) classes are available for students 7 and up. Classes for ages 5 - 6 are only offered in the morning.

Summer At The Academy San Antonio Academy 117 E. French Place San Antonio, TX 78212 210-733-7331 EXT. 237 www.sa-academy.org Art, Photography, Sewing, PapierMâché, Architecture, Doll Making Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 Pastels, acrylic, drawing & painting, clay, cartooning, glass, sewing, photography, crafts, room makeover, papier-mâché, and more. For the artistic among you, a selection of classes that will help you express your creative spirit!

Mad Science camps are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science activities. Your child will become a junior scientist for the week. Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects throughout the week. 9 different exciting camp themes are available. Register now: Pay Later!

Star Wars, Medieval Battles, Roman Military Rulers, Heroscape Coed for 8 and up. June 6– July 29 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!

Classes, Camps, Academy! The Magik Theatre 210-227-2751 420 S. Alamo • San Antonio, Texas 78205

Etiquette, Cooking, Ice Cream Shoppe, Edible Garden Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 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!

Magik Performing Arts Center (210) 375-5458 5359 Casa Bella • San Antonio, Texas 78249

Camp Showbiz, our community’s premiere theatre arts summer program, offers children and teens fun, learning, and creativity, in a day camp structure of 1-, 2- and 4-week sessions. Extended care also available! Now two locations, The Magik Theatre (downtown) and the Magik Performing Arts Center (Northwest).

St. Thomas Summer Sensations Summer Pride & Tiger Connections www.stthomaskids.com 210-494-3509

Summer Pride – Coed for ages 3 to completed Kindergarten. June 13July 29. Program set in weekly units. The choice is yours. Arts & crafts, cooking, science, stories, imagination… Half or full day with optional extended care before and after camp. Tiger Connections – Coed for ages 3 through fifth grade. June 13-July 29. Students engage in fun, educational, and creative activities in our summer day camp experience. We offer enrichment classes, academics, sports, and adventure camps taught by instructors from St. Thomas, neighboring districts, and experts in specific fields.

Summer Art Studios Southwest School of Art 300 Augusta, San Antonio, TX 210-224-184 www.swschool.org

June 8 - August 10, 2015 - The Southwest School of Art’s Summer Art Studios offers 1 - 2 week long classes in a positive,

Game & Basic Programing, Minecraft, Robots COED for ages 7 and up. June 6– July 29 These classes explore a wide variety of technological skills and games. From Google SketchUp to Scratch to Minecraft to Robots to EV3. Learn to be proficient in using your computer & building robots, while having fun. Cards, Chess, Pokemon, Board & Table Games Coed for ages 6 and up. June 6– July 29 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! Theatre; Public Speaking; Writing; Courtroom Drama; Pantomine; Lights, Camera, Action Coed for ages 5 and up. June 6– July 29 This series of classes will provide you with a wide variety of life skills in such areas as dynamic public speaking, writing, and experiencing “behind-scene” and “onstage” action and courtroom situations. Legos, Rockets, Robotics, Manipulatives, Architecture, Minecraft Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 Come explore your “building” imagination! Inventions, Rockets, Robotics, Chemistry & Physics, Forensics, Space, Rube Goldberg, Meteorites, Dissection Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 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.

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CAMP GUIDE Sports Camps, Zumba Coed for ages 5 and up. June 6– July 29 If you are a sports and exercise fanatic (or just love fun and games), come join us for classes in karate, , soccer, football, basketball, bowling, dodgeball, Ultimate Frisbee, Zumba, racquet sports and fencing. Math Camp Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 Whether you want to learn basic math skills or plunge into the world of algebra, geometry, SAT Prep Math and “probabilities,” our math camps will teach, reinforce and prepare you for moving ahead to the next level of math! Animal Lovers Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 Fishing, bugs, snakes, spiders and salamanders, dinosaurs … calling all animal lovers. Come spend a week learning about animal life! Reading & Comprehension, Phonics, Study/Testing Skills, Writing, Public Speaking, STARR Reading Prep, SAT Prep-Math Coed for ages 4 and up. June 6– July 29 These classes focus on skills and activities that will boost your confidence and strengthen your reading, writing, testing, and public presentation skills.

Tech-4-Tots 5300 Heath Rd. 210-776-1055 www.tech4tot.org

Tech-4-Tots Summer Camp was created to provide a positive learning environment for children at an affordable rate. We believe that when children engage their minds in positive activities it will help them to excel in the upcoming school year. Please visit our website for updated camp information.

The Little Gym Call for ages and rates NorthEast – 210-545-3770, www.thelittlegym.com Alamo Heights – 210-822-9252, www.tlgalamoheightstx.com

The Little Gym camps combine physical activity and games with arts, crafts and special events. Each week offers an interactive learning theme and each day brings a different, creative lesson plan. Plus, flexible scheduling options allow you to sign up for several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time.

STEAM Up! Summer at MSSA The Montessori School of San Antonio 210-492-3553 17722 Rogers Ranch Pkwy. www.montessoriSA.org

Our camp will ignite the child’s imagination, excite their creativity and fuel their enthusiasm to learn. Camp presented by: The Montessori School of San Antonio, Young Rembrandts of San Antonio and Camp Einstein.

Spurs Summer Basketball Camps 210-444-5021 spurs.com/camps

The Spurs Summer Basketball Camps offer both day and overnight camp sessions for both boys and girls, 6 to 18-years-old. All camp sessions include special appearances from a current NBA/WNBA player, a current NBA/WNBA coach, and a former NBA player

Summer Fun University Bowl 12332 IH 10 West 210-699-6235 www.ubbowl.com

Sign up for two free games of bowling Monday thru Friday from 9am to 5pm.Open to kids ages 15 and under. Parents and caregivers can buy a season pass for $40 and receive two free games per day as well. June 1 - Aug 1.

Spanish Summer School Tohui Language Academy 1127 Patricia 503-999-7547 tohuilanguageacademy@gmail.com

Ages Group 5-6 • 8 Weeks June 6 – July 29 Tohuí Language Academy offers k-1 Texas standard based academics in reading, writing, math and science. We offer second language acquisition strategies with a hands on approach. Two thematic units in Spanish: Cosmic Solar System and Prehistoric Dinosaurs.

Programs for kids 4 months through 12 years. Try us out today!

Woodlawn Academy Summer Camps 210-267-8388 1920 Fredericksburg Rd San Antonio TX, 78201 woodlawntheatre.org

Programs for kids 4 months through 12 years. Try us out today!

Join The Woodlawn Academy for the Performing Arts for our 2016 Summer Camps and make lasting friendships and memories! Kids ages 5-17 will gain knowledge in theatre and learn to act, sing, dance and appreciate the arts while learning to perform on our main stage.

Alamo Heights 822-9252 North San Antonio 545-3770 www.thelittlegym.com

YMCA of Greater San Antonio Summer Day Camp Multiple Locations 210-924-2277 www.summeratthey.com

Prevent summer learning loss with creative, fun group games, field trips and more! Y campers get a healthy mix of physical activity, educational opportunities and a chance to learn new skills. At the Y, kids develop friendships and memories to last a lifetime.

DAY CAMP/ SPECIAL NEEDS Brain Balance Achievement Center 210-670-2760 1742 N. Loop 1604 E. Suite 121 www.BrainBalanceCenters.com

The Brain Balance program brings hope to families of children who suffer with behavioral, academic and social challenges. We are specialized achievement centers that utilize a drug-free, multi-faceted approach to address the underlying issues, working with children who struggle with ADHD, Dyslexia, Asperger and academic challenges. No diagnosis required. Help your child retain what they’ve learned from the school year and be prepared for next school year!

Difficulty reading.

Words jumbled, not clearly spoken.

“

Brooke’s reading problems were going to limit her going forward. Spoken words were all tangled up. I was running out of hope. The Brain Balance experience was phenomenal. Brooke’s diction is perfect. Her reading advanced by six grade levels. Life has changed.

”

- Karen I., Brain Balance Parent

Brain Balance addresses: • Lack of Focus • Impulsivity • Tantrums • Trouble Making Friends • Family Relationships/Social Skills • Academic, Social or Behavioral Issues How it works: Brain Balance is a comprehensive program that combines physical & sensory exercises with cognitive skill training and healthy nutrition. Call now for a free consultation or visit

The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path, #120 San Antonio TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com

Each summer The Clowvazar Academy opens three summer sessions in June, July and August for students with Anxiety, High Functioning Autism or other related learning differences. We accept students from Kindergarten to High School. Limited seats are available. Visit us online for tuition information and requirements.

CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

www.brainbalancecenters.com.

Get Your Child Balanced for Life. New Braunfels 1551 N. Walnut Ave. Suite 1 New Braunfels, TX 78130

San Antonio

1742 N. Loop 1604 E. Suite 121 San Antonio, TX 78232

(210) 620-7378

brainbalancecenters.com

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Baby

The How and When of Losing the Linus Status By Tess Eggleston Alfonsin

Pacifiers, blankies, jackets, thumbs, and various stuffed animals have long been the treasured companions for young children. In fact, Charles Schultz, creator of the famous “Peanuts” comic strip, incorporated children’s natural proclivity for a lovey, or transitional object as they are sometimes called, when he penned blanket-toting Linus. Parents as late as the 1940’s believed that a child owning a transitional object reflected either an unnatural relationship with his or her parents or displayed a sense of anxiety on the child’s part. Researchers have since concluded the opposite. Experts now regard these comfort items as a healthy means to help a young child to make the transition emotionally from dependence on a caregiver(s) to independence. These transitional objects generally appear between the ages of nine and eighteen months, although thumb sucking can show up in kids as early as three or four months of age. Whatever a child might use to self-soothe, a debate will naturally arise between a child’s parents, grandparents, and even well-intentioned friends about the how and when of a comfort item “going away.” A nearly fifteen year veteran of pediatrics and a mother of three elementary aged children, Dr. Melissa Garcia of ABCD Pediatrics states that the method a parent utilizes should depend on the age and temperament of the child. 22

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

THE HOW

“I’ll Have the Cold Turkey, Please” Some staunchly defend the “cold turkey” method of removing the item completely at once and never looking back. Dr. Garcia says that this method generally works best when a child is younger than 24 months. “It’s like sleep training. The younger the child, the easier he or she will acclimate.” She warns that this method can be emotionally taxing, and that it can create anxiety for both the child and the parents. “Slowly But Surely” After a child blows out two candles on a birthday cake, allowing him/her to help with the weaning process is generally most effective. Dr. Garcia tells about the success that many of her patients have experienced in placing the comfort item in a basket and then releasing balloons as a symbolic sign of them going away. Whether bidding it a formal adieu complete with a ceremonial giving away of the object with your child in tow or secretly stashing the beloved item when he/she isn’t aware, there is no doubt: it will be a challenging time for everyone involved. Two of my own three sons developed a deep affection for a comfort item early in their toddler years. While my oldest son chose a non-traditional wooden train to carry

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with him everywhere he went, my middle son’s stuffed snowman was a more traditional choice. Both boys, however, eventually decided on their own to put their most prized possession down; my husband and I never had to force the subject of when and where their lovey could accompany them. It turns out that that this was a real blessing. Their choice of when or if to hold their transitional object saved us a mountain of tears and whining-for our sons, too!

THE WHEN But what about those kids whose attachment to their item goes beyond a certain age? And when is the right time for a child to say goodbye to their lovey? Dr. Melissa Garcia warns that pacifier use beyond the age of three is not advisable. In fact, at a patient’s two-year-old well visit, if a pacifier is still in place, she will counsel her parents to begin the process of weaning the “pacie” from the toddler. “Eighteen months to two years of age is the most common age to begin. Most should wean by two, but definitely by three. She cautions her parents not to be surprised after successful pacifier disuse has occurred. Many times a child who has been attached to a pacifier and has given it up will pick up another transitional object such as a blanket or a stuffed animal. “It’s a double-edged sword,” she chuckles. But take heart. A child won’t head off to college with his or her well-loved teddy grasped tightly in a palm. Most kids by kindergarten realize the social appropriateness of having a beloved object trailing behind them and ditch the object

themselves. Usually they opt to leave the lovey at home, though sometimes teachers can have a hand in the process if the object is brought to school. Susan Moore-Sickman, Lower School Counselor for Saint Mary’s Hall, states “carrying a lovey is a sign of insecurity...the goal is for the child to see the teacher as security and then be able to branch out to other trusted adults.” Dr. Garcia agrees and adds that it is important for a school-aged child to be able to self-soothe without the object, noting that she is speaking about kids who have reached developmental milestones at a normal rate and not children with autism. Kids with autism or on the spectrum should always be allowed an object to help them deal with stress at any age.

SUGGESTED TITLES TO ENJOY WITH YOUR CHILD: ■■Ira Sleeps Over by Bernard Waber ■■Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne

■■What Does My Teddy Bear Do All Day? by Bruno Hachler ■■Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems

■■Where’s My Teddy? by Jez Alborough ■■Corduroy by Don Freeman

Tess Eggleston Alfonsin is a fourth grade Language Arts teacher and mother of three boys.

Equipping Children Empowering Parents Brighton Center Equips Children and Empowers Parents through a comprehensive approach that includes home-based therapy services, early childhood education, parent education and advocacy services.

210.826.4492 www.brightonsa.org CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

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February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Special Needs

Sensory Friendly Dental Care By Colyn Sanchez

One of the biggest challenges parents face is getting their child comfortable at the dentist’s office. In fact, for most, the dentist’s office can bring some anxiety. Loud dental instruments, bright lights, and music can all be overwhelming for children who are sensitive to their surroundings. However, there are many actions dentists are willing to take for children with an autism spectrum disorder so they feel more comfortable when receiving oral care. Oral health is a crucial part of an individual’s wellbeing. While maintaining a good oral health routine for children with sensory processing disorder can be a very trying task, determination can bring positive results and rewards. Reactions to certain stimuli vary; some people with autism may be more sensitive to light and noise, and not disturbed by pain and heat. 24

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

Finding a dentist who will work with you and your child is crucial and can take some time and research. When finding a dentist, consider the following: Don’t be afraid to ask any questions. Even bringing up specific issues your child may have is okay. Do not be concerned with sounding troublesome. It is an important part of your child’s health and the more questions you and the dentist have answered, the better prepared everyone is. Record the office before bringing your child in. An idea that helps some children with sensory processing disorder is to ask the dentist if they will allow you to walk through and video the layout and setup of the office. Showing this to your child prior to seeing the dentist makes them feel more at ease when they arrive at the office.

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Also, ask the dentist if you can bring your child in prior to their first appointment. That way your child is familiar with the facility and can meet the staff. Begin explaining dentists, dental tools, dentist’s offices and their settings early and incorporating the vocabulary to make your child more familiar. Once you have selected a dentist that you feel is the best fit for you and your child, make a plan so that things go as smoothly as possible. Some families bring headphones and sunglasses to help with sound and light sensory support. Aim to start with “happy visits.” If the first visit does not accomplish all that is expected at a first routine checkup, do not be discouraged. The goal is for your child to feel comfortable going to the dentist. Viewing pictures outlining the process of a dental visit allow the child to know what to expect and give them an understanding of when the visit will be near its end. Sometimes a child is more likely to be cooperative if they see their parent have their teeth looked at by the dentist first. Dental care at home is crucial for any child. Below are some sensory friendly ideas to make things easier at home if your child has a difficult time with oral care: Austismspeaks.org suggests using a timer so that the individual with an autism spectrum disorder can actually see when the task will be over. Picking out the right toothbrush is a very important first step, and can even be a fun part of the process for some children. Autismspeaks.org says to begin with a soft bristle brush. The American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association suggests exploring cartoons and short video clips that review the process and importance of dental hygiene. All of the “do’s and don’ts” of sensory friendly dental care can be overwhelming for parents, especially for those who have to focus greatly on sensory issues in their child’s everyday tasks. If one method of making dental care easier for your child does not work, try something else. Remember, no one knows your child better than you do. Try to start with a recommendation that you feel would most likely help your child succeed. Do not give up. Dental hygiene is incredibly important for every individual’s overall health. Always keep in mind that the main goal is for your child to gain as much independence at each task as they can. Margaret Colyn Sanchez is a freelance writer, mother of two and resides in New Braunfels, TX.

ABA Therapy for Kids

The Shape of Behavior

is a Behavioral Health and ABA Therapy Clinic for children with Autism or a variety of special needs

WE PROVIDE:

• In-clinic treament • Social skills training • Shadowing

• FREE Parent Training and Sibling Support sessions • And Much More

THE SHAPE DIFFERENCE Serving Childeren and their Families Since 2000 Other Disabilites Welcome Doctoral and Masters Level BCBA’s Full Time Intervention Intensive Staff Development and Supervision Like us on Facebook for information on Free Community Events

www.ShapeOfBehavior.com

14603 Huebner Rd, San Antonio, TX 78230 • (866) 437-2165 CAMP FAIR 2016 Infomation @ www.OurKids.camp

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

calendar

OF EVENTS

FEBRUARY

February 10 Yamato Drummers of Japan: Yamato Drummers of Japan: The theme of Yamato’s 2015-16 program is “Bakuon” or “Legend of the Heartbeat.” The story is based on the sound of the heartbeat in every one of us. This sound of the heartbeat is continuous, from our birth and growth to our day-to-day existence. Yamato was founded by Masa Ogawa in 1993 in Nara, “the land of Yamato” which is said to be the birthplace of Japanese culture. Presently based in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, Yamato travels all over the world with Japan’s traditional Wadaiko drums, putting their very souls into the unusual instruments, whose sound stirs the hearts of people everywhere. Tickets start at $29. 7:30 p.m. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 210-226-5700. http://www.majesticempire.com/shows/ yamatodrummers

February 28 Camp Fair 2016: 2016 Camp Fair: Meet representatives of overnight camps, day camps, summer activities, school programs and childcare as they gather in one spot to provide information to area families at Our Kids Magazine’s 20th Annual Camp Fair. Parents and kids can see first-hand what is available in these areas for 2016 as Camp Fair provides an excellent opportunity to meet camp and program representatives in person and plan for a great summer. Parents will also be able to explore educational opportunities when they are face-to-face with school, tutoring and learning center representatives. Also, families can expect a fun-filled afternoon with performances, demonstrations, and lots of activities. Plan now to attend and learn about what is available for area kids this summer. And, while you are there, register to win fun prizes. Free. 1 to 4 p.m. San Antonio Alzafar Shrine Center, 901 N Loop 1604 on the westbound side between Stone Oak Pkwy and Blanco Rd.. http://www. ourkidsmagazine.com/San_Antonio/contact.html

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

Magazine

To Advertise Call 305-4181

What’s Inside 28 Get Listed

36 Free Fun in SA

30 Family Theatre

37 Looking Ahead

1 Monday

Big Blue Blocks at Yanaguana Gardens: Each Monday, Yanaguana Garden staff will be putting out Big Blue Blocks for children aged two and up to interact with. Staff and volunteers will be on site to lead organized play that is fun, active and educational for young children. Youngsters can attend each week for new activities and opportunities Free. 9 to 11 a.m. Hemisfair, Yanaguana Garden,434 S. Alamo St. http://www.hemisfair.org/

3 Wednesday

Home School Programs: This session’s focus is “Madagascar” and is geared to home-schooled children grades K-4 (Ages 6 and up) and no strollers will be allowed for this evening session. Cost is $15/member adult & child; $25/nonmember adult & child, $10 per extra participant. 10 to 11:30 a.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210734-7184. http://sazoo.org/ education/school-age/ SAMA Playdates: Toddlers can enjoy stories, gallery activities, hands-on art, movement and music during this event designed to cultivate, nurture and inspire creativity while developing an appreciation of art and world cultures. Participants should meet at the front desk. 10 to 11 a.m. Free with museum admission. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8183. https://www.samuseum.org/ calendar/event Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program

with the San Antonio Astronomical Association. 8 to 10 p.m. every Wednesday. Free. Lower Bee Tree soccer field parking lot at McAllister Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road. 210-710-4786. http:// sanantonioastronomy.org/ calendar/

4 Thursday

Yanaguana Garden Storytime: Every Thursday, Yanaguana Garden hosts Story Time in the park for area kids and Hemisfair staff will also be on site with their mobile Book Garden. Story time and an activity will take place each week. Guests can borrow books from the library to take home and bring books that they are done with to contribute to the library for everyone to enjoy. Take-a-book, leave-a-book, or just hear a great story each week!. Free. 9 to 11 a.m. Hemisfair, Yanaguana Garden,434 S. Alamo St. http://www.hemisfair.org/

EVERYDAY

WEDNESDAY

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchased 1289 S.W. Loop 410 www.acadianacafe.com

Kids eat free after 4 pm with every adult entree purchase* All Locations *Excludes 5307 Walzem Road, San Antonio 78218 www.lubys.com

Romes Pizza

Kids eat free 4pm - 8pm with every adult entree purchase

SATURDAY

Garlic Jim’s

Free 9” Kid’s Pizza with the purchase of any large pizza All Locations 8802 Potranco, Suite 111 www.garlicjims.com/location/ garlic-jims-pizza-richland-hills/ 7664 Tezel Road, Suite 105 www.garlicjims.com/location/ garlic-jims-pizza-tezel-road/

Marie Callender’s Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase

MONDAY

5 Friday

Starting Out Wild- Rockin’ and Rollin’: Learn all about rocks through stories, songs, and hands-on fun! These high energy, engaging programs are a perfect way to foster an appreciation of the natural world for children ages 1-3. It is recommended that a child be walking and a parent or caretaker attend with each child. Most classes will take place outdoors. Suggested donation: $3 per person or $6 per family. RSVP required. Email nicole. mcleod@sanantonio.gov. 10 a.m. to 11a.m. Friedrich Wilderness Park, 21395 Milsa Drive. 210-207-3782. www.sanaturalareas.org

Camp Fair 2016 | www.OurKids.camp

Kids eat free 11-close with adult purchase* All Locations *Excludes 5307 Walzem Road, San Antonio 78218 www.lubys.com

SUNDAY Joe’s Crab Shack

KIDS EAT FREE ALL DAY! One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entree. All locations www.joescrabshack.com

TUESDAY

Marie Callender’s

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 4788 NW Interstate 410 Loop www.mariecallenders.com

Free Kid’s Combo with the purchase of one adult meal. Includes kid-sized sub, dessert, kid’s drink, and fire hat. Valid only at “THE COLONNADE III”. Dine-in only. 9961 IH-10 W San Antonio TX, 78230 www.firehousesubs.com

Visit Our Kids Magazine online for more restaurants

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Cowboy Breakfast: Biscuits and gravy served as long as supplies last. The public is invited to attend. Free. Commanders House, 622 South Flores Street. 8 to 9:30 a.m. 210-207-3010. http://www.sanantonio.gov/ ParksAndRec/NewsEvents/ Events.aspx Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-826-6411. http://www.thetwig.com/ miss-anastasia

San Antonio’s annual Stock Show & Rodeo gives area kids a taste of the Western life.

Time for RODEO! Annual event runs Feb 11 – Feb 28

It’s that time again! Get ready for the 2016 Stock Show and Rodeo! The annual event runs February 11 through 28 on the AT&T Center/Freeman Coliseum Grounds. Live entertainment, a carnival, stock show, and THE RODEO, of course...For more information, go to: http://www.sarodeo.com/

The Doseum’s H-E-B Family Night is Back and Starting This Month

Every first and third Tuesday of the month, the first 1,500 guests will be admitted free of charge as part of H-E-B’s Family Night. This open admission is available from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to ensure entry and a sign will be posted outside The DoSeum once the free admission capacity is reached. Parking is limited, so please plan accordingly and remember that no outside food or drink will be allowed inside the DoSeum. Also, please limit stroller use or use umbrella strollers only inside the museum. For details, go to http://www.thedoseum.org/ HEBFamilyNight.

Redo Recess Is A Chance For The 21 And Up Crowd To “Do” The Doseum!

Grown-ups can ReDo Recess at The DoSeum and be kids all over again this Feb 11. Over 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor fun, including hundreds of hands-on interactive exhibits inside and out. Eat, drink, mingle with a robot named Baxter, and be a kid again. All attendees must be 21 years old and up for this evening event. Bars and gift shop will accept cash and credit cards. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes as this night is about moving and playing! High heels are not recommended, as this will restrict your access to some exhibit spaces due to safety precautions. For tickets and information, go to http://www.thedoseum. org/redorecess.

GET LISTED FOR FREE

Do you have a family-friendly event? Submit your event online at www.ourkidsmagazine.com or e-mail your calendar items and photographs to ourkidssacalendar@gmail.com. The deadline for the March issue is February 11. Information cannot be accepted by phone.

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

6 Saturday

Mardi Gras River Parade and Festival: A procession of decorated river barges transforms the River Walk into a floating version of Bourbon Street. Krewes of costumed revelers and live entertainment help crowds celebrate Mardi Gras San Antonio Style. Live music on Arneson Stage and a festival of food, arts & crafts, activities and more at La Villita. Parade begins at 4 p.m. and will make 2 laps around the horseshoe bend of the River Walk, pass into the Rivercenter Mall lagoon and out, and proceed through the Arneson River Theatre. The River Rat Brass Band will lead a procession on the banks of the river starting at 4pm from the Hilton Palacio del to the Arneson River Theatre. This is a free event. This event will go on rain or shine. Free. 1 to 6 p.m. Arneson River Theatre at La Villita. http://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events Free Heart Screening for Teens: As part of their ongoing effort to prevent sudden cardiac death, AugustHeart is offering free heart screenings for high school students ages 14-18 in San Antonio and surrounding counties. Sign up online. Free. 9 to 11 a.m. TriPoint Event Center, 3233 North St. Mary’s St. 210-8419207. http://www.augustheart. org/ First Saturday at the Alamo: Enjoy First Saturday, an To Advertise Call 305-4181

interactive living history event, designed to give visitors a glimpse of life in early Texas. Includes live demonstrations, living history and history talks. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alamo. 210-225-1391 ext. 143. http://www.thealamo.org/ Animal Botanical 2016: Hands-on learning and fun-filled activities for special needs youth ages 7-19. $25. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3250. www. sabot.org SAMA Tours for the Visually Impaired: Docent-led tours for the blind and visually impaired include descriptive language, touch, sound and smell to enhance the visitor’s experience with art. Guide dogs, sighted companions and others are welcome on the tours, as are wheelchairs and other walking aids. Free. 10 to 11 a.m. Call for reservations. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8183. https://www. samuseum.org/ MarketPlace at Old Town Helotes: Music, food and a good time are served up at this event as local craftsmen offer treasures from across South Texas on the first Saturday of the month. Jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh produce and oneof-a-kind pieces are on display. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 14391 Riggs Rd., Helotes.

Festive barges make their way down the San Antonio River during the annual Mardi Gras River Parade & Festival.

210-695-5964. http://www.helotesmarketplace.com/

7 Sunday

First Sundays for Families- Animals in Art: Share the first Sunday of each month with the family and explore Animals in Art inspired by the museum’s collection. Craft a dog from clay, collage a Chinese fish and paint beautiful birds on tiles. Take a family tour of the exhibition on closing day. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mount Sacred Heart Catholic School Montessori Program for Infants to 6 years.

Registering Now for 2016-2017

Call For Your Tour Today!

Free with museum admission/Children 12 & under free. San Antonio Museum of Art, LAC Atrium & Contemporary Galleries, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-9788100. https://www.samuseum.org/

8 Monday

Little Sprout Mondays: Program for ages 3-4 includes storytelling, kids’ crafts and hands-on explorations at the child’s pace. Early registration encouraged. $7 fee includes one adult and one

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FAMILY THEATRE

child. A parent or guardian must stay with the child. 10 to 11:30 a.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-536-1412. http:// www.sabot.org/education/childrens-education/ little-sprouts/ Big Blue Blocks at Yanaguana Gardens: see Feb 1

9 Tuesday

Clifford the Big Red Dog plays at the Tobin Center on February 19. James and the Giant Peach: When James is sent by his aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion which results in a tremendous peach. Suddenly, James finds himself in the center of the gigantic peach on a journey with human-sized insects with equally oversized personalities. Thanks to James’ quick wits and creative thinking, the travelers learn to live and work together. $15 adult and $12 child admission. Show times vary by date. Runs through Feb. 28. Magik Theatre, 420 South Alamo. 210-227-2751. http://www. magiktheatre.org/ Sesame Street Live -Make a New Friend: No matter where you’re from or where you’ve been, everyone is special - so join in! Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby, and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. Together, they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies. $19-$57. Performance times vary by date. Runs Feb 6 through 7. Freeman Coliseum, 3201 East Houston Street. 3201 East Houston St. 210-2261177. http://www.freemancoliseum. com/?events=sesame-street-live Peppa Pig Live!: In Peppa Pig’s Big Splash, the nursery roof is leaking and Peppa and her friends need to fix it quickly. They set up a fair to raise money so Mr. Bull can do the repairs. There’s plenty of fun to be had as Peppa, George, Mummy and Daddy Pig, along with Danny Dog, Pedro Pony and Suzy Sheep work together to organize an exciting day out complete with a Champion Puddle Jumping competition judged by Mr. Potato, where everyone gets wet. $24.50 - $39.50. Showtimes vary by

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

date. Runs Feb 11 through Feb 14. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 210-226-5700. http://www.majesticempire.com/shows/ peppapiglive Peter Pan-Ballet San Antonio: Imaginations of all ages take flight on a spectacular journey to Neverland in JM Barrie’s magical play of dastardly pirates, precocious fairies and children who never grow up. Peter Pan has been the inspiration for Hollywood movies, Disney cartoons, children’s novels, TV shows and even the name of a thoroughbred racehorse. However, while ballet might not immediately spring to mind as a likely medium to tell this fantastical tale, given the sprightly antics of Pan and his band of lost boys, this fun-filled, thrilling narrative makes an ideal foundation for dance. $29 and up. Performance times vary by date. Runs Feb 12 through 14. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-223-8624. https://www.tobincenter.org/ box-office/2016-02/peter-pan Clifford the Big Red Dog Live! A BIG Family Musical: It only takes a little to BE BIG!™ The ‘big red dog,’ a character beloved for generations, comes to life on stage in a BIG way in this interactive musical! Join Clifford, Emily Elizabeth and all their friends from Birdwell Island as they embark on an adventure filled with singing, dancing and more. Share in the timeless values of Clifford’s BIG Ideas: Share, Play Fair, Have Respect, Work Together, Be Responsible, Be Truthful, Be Kind, Believe In Yourself, Be A Good Friend and Help Others – with this musical experience the whole family will love. $18.50 - $49.50. 6 p.m. Feb 19. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-223-8624. https://www.tobincenter.org/ box-office/2016-02/clifford-big-red-dog-live

Elementary – Photography: Youngsters can learn how to take photographs of nature while walking along the PHP West trails. Cameras will be available or kids can bring their own. Kid-friendly activity included. Middle School classes are for 7-10 year-olds. Suggested donation is $3 per individual or $5 per family. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Phil Hardberger Park, PHP Urban Ecology Center, 8400 NW Military Hwy (West Side). 210-207-3280. http:// www.philhardbergerpark. org/events/events-calendar/ kid-friendly/1130-elementaryphotography

10 Wednesday

Yamato Drummers of Japan: see lead-off pg xxxxx Yoga For The Youngest: Do the downward dog and then visit the wild dogs at the zoo! The zoo’s guest yoga teacher will practice some basic yoga moves with participating children and caregivers. Then they will walk with participants to meet the inspiration for the exercises. Open to children ages 2-6 years old. Cost per person is $7 for members and $17 for nonmembers. 10 to 10:45 a.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. http://www. sazoo-aq.org/education/ young-children/ SAMA Playdates: see Feb 3 Astronomy in the Park: see Feb 3

11 Thursday

Middle School - Nature Photography: Youngsters can learn how to take photographs of nature while walking along the PHP West To Advertise Call 305-4181

Performances, food, fashion and crafts will highlight the 29th Annual Asian Festival at the Institute of Texan Cultures this month. trails. Cameras will be available or kids can bring their own. Kid-friendly activity included. Middle School classes are for 10-14 year-olds. Suggested donation is $3 per individual or $5 per family. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Phil Hardberger Park, PHP Urban Ecology Center, 8400 NW Military Hwy (West Side). 210-207-3280. http:// www.philhardbergerpark.org/events/ events-calendar/kid-friendly/1131-middle-school-nature-photography Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: Two and a half weeks of high-flying PRCA Rodeo action, live musical entertainment, family-friendly carnival, shopping at over 650 booths, livestock and horse shows and sales, fair food galore, a Texas Wildlife Area and so much more. Grounds admission $10 for adults, $5 for kids aged 3 to 12, kids 2 years and under are free. Rodeo tickets start at $15. Hours, performers and ticket prices vary by date. Freeman Coliseum Grounds, AT&T Center, 3201 E. Houston St. 210225-5851. http://www.sarodeo.com/ Art Crawl: Moms, dads and caregivers can put their babies in slings and take a walk through the museum galleries for a guided tour. Talks are geared toward adults while the art selections are chosen to engage the adults and infants 0-18 months. Free with museum admission. 10 to 10:45 a.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. https://www.samuseum.org/calendar/ event-detail?eid=6631 Yanaguana Garden Storytime: see Feb 4 Camp Fair 2016 | www.OurKids.camp

12 Friday

Youth Matinee - Jackie & Me: Magik Children’s Theatre Presents “Jackie & Me” the story of ten-year-old Joey Stoshack, a headstrong young boy with a special talent for time travel. When Joey is assigned to write a report on an African American who has made an important contribution to society, he uses his special ability to go back to Brooklyn, New York, in 1947. He meets one of baseball’s greatest players, Jackie Robinson. Joey plans on writing a prizewinning report, but he doesn’t plan on a trip that will forever change his view of history and his definition of courage. Free. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jo Long Theatre, Carver Cultural Community Center, 226 N. Hackberry. 210-207-7211. http://www. thecarver.org/education/education-csvpa/ youth-matinee-series/ Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11 Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see Feb 5

13 Saturday

29th Annual Asian Festival: This familyfriendly event features music, cultural performances, food, fashion, crafts and other products. The day’s activities appeal to all the senses, with bright costumes and energetic dances, smells and tastes of authentic foods, classic and contemporary Asian music and hands-on demonstrations. The festival showcases

artistic traditions such as Ikebana flower arrangement and Bonsai; skills such as martial arts; traditions and other regional customs from the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asian Peninsula and Pacific island nations. Adults $10 at gate or $8 advance purchase/Children ages 6-12 $5/ Children 5 and under free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Institute of Texan Cultures, 801 E. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. 210-458-2300. http://www.texancultures.com/events/ asian_festival_2016/ Universal City Snowfest & Carnival: Universal City celebrates winter in chilly style with the City’s 7th Annual Snowfest & Carnival. Free activities include the snow slope, snow play, hayrides, moon bounces, and more. An unlimited “allyou-can-ride” wristband is available for $7 for kids 21 rears of age & under; $3 for adults; and free for kids 2 years of age and under. Food and vendor booths will also be on site and there will be a talent show and other entertainment. 3 to 9 p.m. Universal City Park, 305 North Blvd. 210-658-5364. http://www.universalcitytexas.com/index.aspx?NID=694 Boerne Chocolate Walk: Join the local community for this sweet walk through Boerne’s Downtown district and see firsthand the unique stores, galleries and restaurants and enjoy various chocolates and treats handed out along the way. The Shabby Bus will be running during this event to help folks get to some new stores. Ticket price includes February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

ONGOING EXHIBITS McNay Art Museum

The Extraordinary Ordinary: Three Installations highlight artists Tom Burckhardt, Ernesto Pujol, and Sandy Skoglund use of the stuff of ordinary life to create extraordinary environments. In FULL STOP (2004-05), Burckhardt fashions a full-scale artist’s studio from corrugated cardboard, black paint, wood, and hot glue. The walk-through installation depicts a mythical artist’s studio, with sly references to luminaries including Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, and Jackson Pollock. Pujol’s Walk#1 (2005-06) premiered at the McNay in 2006 and was subsequently acquired by the museum. Through photographs and artifacts, Pujol takes the viewer on a meditative walk through a Southern cemetery, observing a solitary robed figure as he encounters the cemetery’s natural views and archiA concentration camp uniform featured in the ongoing Faces of Survival exhibit tectural details. Skoglund’s The Cocktail at the Institute of Texan Cultures. Party (1992) recreates this domestic ritual using bright orange junk food snacks covering figures, furniture, walls, and is among the artifacts to be displayed. Student researchers floor. Acquired by the McNay in 2009, this presentation is have collected accounts of the atrocities targeting ethnic, the McNay’s second exhibition of the full three-dimensional political or undesirable classes or groups, and photographs tableaux, and is accompanied by a large color photograph of documenting the end result. The Holocaust Memorial the same subject. Exhibit runs through April 10. Museum of San Antonio has supplemented the students’ Admission: $10 for adults (12-64); $5 for seniors (65+), students with findings with additional artifacts and materials. “Faces of I.D. (13+), and active duty military; and free for children ages 12 and Survival” explains how hatred, intolerance and discrimination younger and to all museum members. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. become pre-conditions for mass murder. The students highTuesday, Wednesday, and Friday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 light the voices and faces of the victims and recognize that p.m. Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed New Year’s Day, July there can be no victims without perpetrators and bystanders. 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Exhibit runs through March 6. Braunfels. 210-824-5368. www.mcnayart.org

San Antonio Botanical Garden

Wings of the City showcases eight bronze sculptures by internationally renowned Mexican Artist Jorge Marín. For the past 24 years, these contemporary sculptures have traveled throughout the world, as cultural outreach from Mexico. Public reception/opening: September 9, 5:30-7:30pm at the Botanical Garden. Exhibit runs through June 5. Admission: $10 adults (14-64); $8 students, seniors, military; $7 children age 3-13; free for children under 3 and all members. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3250. www.sabot.org

Institute of Texan Cultures

Faces of Survival features the work of UTSA graduate and honor students who have produced the new exhibit for display at the ITC. The class used the Holocaust as a model to explore the conditions that can lead to genocide at any time, in any place: Germany, Cambodia, Armenia, Rwanda, Guatemala and other nations. A concentration camp uniform

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

Serving with Honor – Texans in the Military is a student exhibit honoring Texans who have served in the United States military and their families. The ITC has teamed with 11th grade AP History students at Brandeis High School for this latest student exhibit. Presented in conjunction with the museum’s “Our Part of Victory: Texans in World War II,” the student exhibit expands the scope of service, with profiles of Texans who served in any era. The class has produced some 25 shadow boxes, with artifacts, images and text from oral histories, citations and biographies. Among those commemorated are sniper Chris Kyle of Odessa, San Antonio native Oliver North, and General Dwight D. Eisenhower of Denison. Exhibit runs through Feb. 14. Admission: $8 for adults (12-64); $7 for seniors (65+); $6 for children (3-11); free with membership, UTSA or Alamo Colleges identification. Regular hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Institute of Texan Cultures, UTSA HemisFair Park Campus, 801 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. 210-458-2300. www.TexanCultures.com

To Advertise Call 305-4181

a map of the participating businesses, a bag to collect your treats and a raffle ticket to enter once you’ve visited all the stores. $20. Ticket arrangements must be made in advance. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Downtown Boerne. 830-249-9511. http:// www.ci.boerne.tx.us/602/ Boerne-Chocolate-Walk Sensory-Friendly Films: Partnering with the Autism Society, AMC Theaters brings Sensory- Friendly Films to families affected by autism in the San Antonio area. The program provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment. The auditoriums dedicated to the program have their lights up, the sound turned down and audience members are invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing. Dates and films are subject to change so be sure to verify in advance. $4 per person. 10 a.m. AMC Rivercenter 9, 849 E. Commerce St. www.autismsociety.org/get-involved/ events/sensory-friendly-films Beginners’ Bird Walk: Meet the San Antonio Audubon Society (SAAS) trip leader at the Judson Nature Trail in Alamo Heights on the second Saturday of each month. Nonmembers are welcome and binoculars with instructions can be provided. Free. 8 a.m. 246 Viesca, Alamo Heights. 210-342-2073. http://www.saaudubon.org/ Boerne Market Days: On the second Saturday and Sunday of each month, families can enjoy shopping in an outdoor setting with artists and craftsmen showing their creative talents and wares. Live music, food, kids’ activities and more. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free. Boerne, Main Plaza. 210-884-8193. www. boernemarketdays.com. Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

14 Sunday

Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: Camp Fair 2016 | www.OurKids.camp

see Feb 11 Boerne Market Days: see Feb 13

15 Monday

Big Blue Blocks at Yanaguana Gardens: see Feb 1

Education Liaison Services A Team of Professionals Advocating for your Special Needs Child

Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

16 Tuesday

CCSA Presents Copahavana: Come see the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio Youth Academy perform with Doc Watkins and his Orchestra in association with the San Antonio Symphony’s Las Americas Festival. $20-$50. 7:30 p.m. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-223-8624. http://childrenschorussa.org/ live_at_copahavana Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

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17 Wednesday

2016 Fiesta Especial Royal Court Coronation: Sixteen individuals who raised over $52,000 for local programs and services benefiting individuals with disabilities will be recognized at this ceremony. These individuals will spend time from now through Fiesta 2016 representing the successes and abilities of people who are challenged by a disability and creating visibility for the leadership and contributions individuals with disabilities make in the community. $15. Register online. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Texas A&M University San Antonio, Auditorium, One University Way. 210656-6674. http://www. fiestaespecial.com/royalcourt-coronation.html Mother Nature’s Storytime - Weather: Preschoolers and their caregivers can make a groundhog puppet and hear the stories about the weather and what happens to nature thoughout

The Winston Difference Winston was a turning point for me. I learned to believe in myself. Sara, 2015 Winston Graduate Attending Colorado School of Mines Advocating for minds that learn differently.®

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St. http://www.alamocityrunfest.com/ Alamo-Kids-Classic.html

Fiesta Especial’s 2016 Royal Court will be honored on Feb. 17 at the Royal Court Coronation.

the seasons. $5 per family. 10 to 11 a.m. Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830-249-4616. www. cibolo.org SAMA Playdates: see Feb 3 Astronomy in the Park: see Feb 3 Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

18 Thursday

Yanaguana Garden Storytime: see Feb 4 Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

19 Friday

Raiders of the Lost Ark: The classic film from master director Steve Spielberg, starring Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones and scored by John Williams will be performed live by the San Antonio Symphony in sync with the full feature film projected on a huge HD screen. $25-$65. Fri. at 8 p.m. and Sat. at 7 p.m. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 210226-5700. http://www.majesticempire. com/shows/SASymphony-LostArk Family Flashlight Night at the Botanical Garden: Explore the Garden after hours. Bring a flashlight to encounter nighttime insects, create a constellation craft and test your directional skills in a light maze. Nature-based family activities will showcase nocturnal flora and fauna. Regular admission of $10 per adult and $7 per child/ Free for Garden members and children under 3. 6 to 8:30 p.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3250. http://www.sabot. org/events-listing/ Overnight Adventures for Families and Small Groups: Designed for families, friends and small groups, this overnight adventure allows participants to visit animals from around the world as they tour the zoo after dark. They can also meet

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

animals up close, participate in an animal related activity and enjoy an evening snack before snuggling into their sleeping bags for the night. The following morning includes a continental breakfast and animal presentation and then participants can spend the rest of the day exploring the zoo. This month’s theme is “Camouflage and Colors”. Open to ages 6 and up. $45 per person. 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org Luminaria Take 2: Artists and their installations are featured in a “secondchance” event following bad weather at the 2015 main Luminaria event. 8 p.m. to midnight. San Antonio Museum of Art, Museum Grounds, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8183. https://www.samuseum. org/calendar/event-detail?eid=6933 Starting Out Wild- Rockin’ and Rollin’: see Feb 5 Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see Feb 5 Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

20 Saturday

H-E-Buddy Kids Classic Run/Walk: An untimed fun run for kids as part of the H-E-B Alamo Run Fest. This shortdistance, non-competitive event for kids aged 12 and under ends with a run into the Alamodome toward the Finish line at arena floor center! The focus of the run is on kids having fun and being a part of the healthy festivities, while enjoying the sport of running. All kids will run and/or walk a 1 kilometer distance (that’s 1094 yards). Registration fees are $25 per child before Feb 17 or $30 on-site. Start time is 10:30 a.m. with packet pick-up and on-site registration beginning at 9 a.m. Please note that this event is ‘capped’ and limited to the first 1,000 kids to register. Alamodome, 100 Montana

Street2Feet 5K & Kidz K Fun Run: Street2Feet is a volunteer program in partnership with SAMMinistries designed to promote strength and self-sufficiency among its homeless participants through the discipline and joy of running. The public is invited to take partvon race day and run alongside Street2Feet participants, who have trained for months to compete in their first 5K. 5K Run/Walk – Preregistration $30/ Race Day $35 for Adults and $15/ $20 for Kids 12 and under. Adults Preregistration. Kidz K Fun Run for 12 and under is $5. 7:45 a.m. First Presbyterian Church, 404 N. Alamo St. http://www.street2feet.org/ Alamo Health & Fitness Expo: This annual Expo takes place on the floor of the Alamodome and is an event for all runners, whether seasoned and serious, hobby level or just starting out. It’s also a great place for family and friends who may be thinking about participating in their own race sometime in the near future to get familiar with hat is available. The Expo is free and open to the public. Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun. 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Alamodome, 100 Montana St. http://www.alamocityrunfest.com/Health---Fitness-Expo.html S.A.fari Kids: Come join the wildest club in town and explore animals around the Zoo while building new relationships and skills. This month’s focus is “Training and Enrichment” and zoo staff strongly encourages children to attend monthly to insure continuous learning. Drop off program; parents not required to stay. Ages 5-7. 1:30 to 3 p.m. $13 for members/ $19 for nonmembers/ $15 for parents. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org. Bird Walk: Look for birds in their native habitats. An experienced guide leads this walk every third Saturday of the month. Featured birds include hummingbird, Long-billed Thrashers, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Green Heron and the Common Moorhen. Take binoculars. For ages 10 and older. Participants should meet at the Carriage House. Walk is free with garden admission. 9 a.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-536-1400. http://www.sabot. org/plan-your-visit/walks/ Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11 Raiders of the Lost Ark: see Feb 19

21 Sunday

Picture Your World Youth Photography: Open to youth ages 8-18, the Picture Your World weekend workshops teach To Advertise Call 305-4181

Trinity United Methodist School

“Encouraging growth through the enrichment of the whole child”

Affordable Private School Education 2 year olds - 5th grade

Admissions Open House

for school year 2016-2017 February 20th 11:00am – 1:00pm • Child-centered preschool program

Enhanced by Music, All Aboard, Motor Skills and Spanish classes

• Accelerated Curriculum

Music, Piano, Theatre Arts, Technology, Spanish, Latin, Art Library and PE. IPADS issued to 3rd - 5th, Smartboard technology

• Texas Certified Teachers give children the desire to become lifelong learners • Students who excel academically

Trinity’s 3rd, 4th and 5th graders have consistently scored in the top 5% of all students tested nationwide

• Before and after school care available

(210) 684-5214 5319 Newcome Dr. www.trinityums.org

Texas Alliance of Accredited Private Schools

Camino Real Community Services Serving families in Atascosa, Bee, Dimmit, Frio, Gonzales, Guadalupe, La Salle, Live Oak, Maverick, McMullen, Wilson, and Zavala

Infants & Toddlers – Birth to 35 months Family-centered services provided in your home or any other community setting your child regularly attends such as child care facilities, preschool programs, etc.

Call today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation at 210/357-0335

or toll-free at 1-800-491-5201

We offer…

• Speech Therapy • Specialized Skills • Occupational Therapy Training and more • Physical Therapy

Help Starts Here For more information regarding ECI services in your community please visit the DARS-ECI website @ www.dars.state.tx.us/eci or call 1-800-628-5115. Camp Fair 2016 | www.OurKids.camp

An Affiliate of DARS-ECI

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

FREE THINGS TO DO IN SA Briscoe Western Art Museum

Free Story Time Stampede on the second Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m. Explores the American West through story and art. 210 W. Market St. 210-299-4118. www.briscoemuseum.org

Downtown Tuesdays

Free parking at city facilities, restaurant deals and special events can be found downtown every Tuesday night from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Information is available online. www.downtowntuesday.com.

Institute of Texan Cultures ITC offers complimentary admission on the Second Sunday of every month. 210-4582300. www.texancultures.com

Inspire Community Fine Art Center

Free Family Art Day on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 200 Queen Anne Court. 210-829-5592. www. inspirefineart.org

McNay Art Museum

Free admission the first Sunday of each month from noon to 5 p.m. and every Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-805-1768. www.mcnayart.org

New Braunfels Railroad Museum

Free Admission every first and third Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids of all ages run the train and become a junior engineer. 302 West San Antonio St., New Braunfels. 830627-2447. newbraunfelsrailroadmuseum.org

San Antonio Museum of Art

Free admission every Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon and every Tuesday from 4 to 9 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. www.samuseum.org

The Alamo

Free interactive living history event from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month. Includes live demonstrations, living history and history talks. 300 Alamo Plaza. 210-225-1391. www.thealamo.org.

The Witte Museum

Free admission from 3 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1900. www.wittemuseum.org

Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

Kids and parents take part in STEM Saturday activities at the Witte Museum.

photographic composition and technique through hands-on demonstration and constructive critique. Participants will produce a visual memory of their day and begin a creative portfolio while experiencing the wonders of the natural environment. Each workshop is led by the Picture Your World Program Manager, Carra Garza, along with a professional photographer, and a Master Naturalist. Participants may bring their own digital camera or one will be provided. The cost per workshop is $10 per student for Green Spaces members and $20 per student for non-members. Fees may be waived for students demonstrating financial need. 1 to 4:30 p.m. Phil Hardberger Park, 8400 NW Military Hwy (West Side). 210-2073280. www.philhardbergerpark.org Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11 Alamo Health & Fitness Expo: see Feb 20

now famous “Victory or Death” letter. Courier Albert Martin left the Alamo with the letter to ride across Texas to deliver Travis’ impassioned plea for reinforcements to the people of Texas. In 2016, as part of the 180th commemoration of the Texas Revolution, this historic ride will be recreated. The ride will begin at the Alamo with a reenactment of the writing of the Travis letter and Albert Martin leaving the Alamo. Throughout the day there will be living history demonstrations on 19th century letter writing, printing and transportation. Free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza. 210-225-1391 ext. 135. http://www. thealamo.org/calendar/events/2016/0224-2016-ride-for-texas.html SAMA Playdates: see Feb 3 Astronomy in the Park: see Feb 3 Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

25 Thursday 22 Monday

Big Blue Blocks at Yanaguana Gardens: see Feb 1

Yanaguana Garden Storytime: see Feb 4 Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

23 Tuesday

Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

26 Friday

Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see Feb 5 Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

24 Wednesday

The Ride for Texas Independence: On February 24, 1836, Alamo commander William B. Travis wrote the

27 Saturday

STEM Saturday: Build It!: Design, crank, explode, imagine, create! It’s To Advertise Call 305-4181

time to celebrate National Engineers Week with the Witte. Put on your creative thinking caps and attend for an afternoon full of robots, legos, rockets, wires and more. Noon to 4 p.m. The Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway . 210-357-1900. http://www.wittemuseum. org/exhibitions/calendar The Alamo: Outdoor screening of the movie “The Alamo” on Alamo Plaza. Free. Movie begins after sunset. Alamo,Plaza 300 Alamo Plaza. 210-212-9373. http://www.slabcinema.com/ screenings/the-alamo S.A.Fari Adventurers: Although similarly structured to the S.A.Fari Kids and S.A.Fari Explorer clubs, the new Adventurers program is designed specifically for middle and junior high students who are really interested in animals, the environment and the Zoo. Like the other programs, participants will discuss and investigate a topic, meet animals and tour the Zoo, but will also have the opportunity to talk to Zoo Experts and explore their passions and questions. This month’s topic is “Training and Enrichment”. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend regularly for a continuous learning and relationship experience. Drop-off program, adult attendance is not required. $15/members; $19/ nonmembers. 2:30 to 4 p.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. http://sazoo.org/education/ school-age/ Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11 Sensory-Friendly Films: see Feb 13

28 Sunday Yosa Side-By-Side - Dvorák 8: Open the door to a “That could be me someday!” musical experience for the kids by bringing them to see the inspiring talent of the YOSA Philharmonic students as they perform side-by-side with professional musicians of the San Antonio Symphony. Represented by over 60 of the San Antonio area’s top musicians of high-school age, the YOSA Philharmonic will perform Dvorák’s cheerful and folkinspired Symphony No. 8 in-line with the San Antonio Symphony and Music Director Sebastian LangLessing. The program also features the winner of the YOSA Concerto Competition in a debut performance with the San Antonio Symphony. Family Concerts are designed for children age 4-11, but can be enjoyed by people of all ages. $5. 3 p.m. with PreConcert Activities for Kids begin at 2 p.m. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-2238624. https://www.tobincenter.org/box-office/2016-02/ yosa-phil-side-side Stock Show & Rodeo 2016: see Feb 11

29 Monday Big Blue Blocks at Yanaguana Gardens: see Feb 1

Looking Ahead to March See kid-sized, family-friendly Storybook Houses in this spring exhibit opening March 5 at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. And, on March 12-13 don’t miss the annual Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Day River Parade & Festival on the River Walk. The parade is on March 13 at 4:30 p.m

Camp Fair 2016 | www.OurKids.camp

February 2016 | OurKidsMagazine.com

OUR KIDS CLASSIFIEDS

To place a classified ad call 210-305-4181

Publisher does not endorse nor recommend the following business and we encourage our readers to look carefully into any business before making personal or financial commitments.

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San Antonio Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, natural origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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Our Kids Magazine | February 2016

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