Our Kids Magazine FYI 2015

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F.Y. I .

Our Kids Magazine’s 2015

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Your Year-Round Family Resource

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Activities • Camps • Destinations • Schools • Services & More

We buy ALL seasons ALL of the time!

Mon.-Sat. - 9am - 8pm Sun. - 12pm - 5:00 pm 6945 Bandera Road Leon Valley • TX (Next to Peter Piper Pizza) 210-682-OUAC

16646 San Pedro Ave San Antonio • TX (Us Hwy.281 N @ Thousand Oaks) 210-490-6822

www.onceuponachildSanAntonio.com

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Destination Guide History & Culture............................................................ 4 Museums........................................................................... 6

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Sightseeing Tours........................................................... 8

P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 210-305-4181 Toll Free Number, 866-465-6936 Magazine Visit us online at OurKidsMagazine.com

San Antonio Yearly Calendar....................................10 Indoor Play......................................................................18 Skating and Bowling...................................................20 Outdoor Fun...................................................................21 Attractions......................................................................22 Natural Wonders...........................................................23 Parks & Camping...........................................................24 Pet Services.....................................................................27 Theatre, Music & Dance..............................................28 Movie Theaters..............................................................29 Libraries...........................................................................30 Websites..........................................................................31 Sports in San Antonio.................................................32 Schools.............................................................................33

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Rudy Riojas, Ext. 104 CALENDAR Kelley Ramotowski, Ext. 105 ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski, Ext. 101 PRODUCTION: Rudy Riojas, Ext. 104 DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Tony Smith, Ext. 106

Parent Education..........................................................34

Family Resources Education........................................................................40 Party & Activities...........................................................43

F.Y. I .

F.Y. I .

Our Kids Magazine’s 2015

FR

EE

Your Year-Round Family Resource

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OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC is a locally owned magazine published monthly. Advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

Limit of one free copy per reader. Call 210-305-4181 ext. 106 to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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COVER PHOTO: San Antonio Aquarium

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PHOTO BY BRIGHT AND EARLY PRODUCTIONS Magazine

ourkidsmagazine.com • FYI 2015

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History and Culture

S

an Antonio is a beautiful and historic city with plenty of fun family friendly attractions which include missions, museums and theme parks.

The Mission San Antonio de Valero, better known as the Alamo, was established by the Spanish in 1718 and is the location of one most memorable battles in American history. On March 6, 1836, after a 13-day siege by Gen. Santa Anna’s army from Mexico, 189 defenders were slain. Amongst the fallen was David Crockett, Jim Bowie and William B. Travis. Three buildings housing exhibits on the Texas Revolution and Texas history are set in gardens on 4.2 acres in the heart of downtown. 300 Alamo Plaza.

210-225-1391. www.thealamo.org Casa Navarro State Historic Site includes the restored adobe home of Tejano patriot José Antonio Navarro (1795-1871). Dating to circa 1832-1855, the house is furnished with period antiques. 228 S. Laredo St. 210-2264801. www.visitcasanavarro.com 4

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La Villita was San Antonio’s first neighborhood. It was a settlement of primitive huts for the Spanish soldiers stationed at the Mission San Antonio Valero or the Alamo. Today the community is a thriving arts community.

210-207-8610. www.lavillita.com Market Square, on the site of the original Farmers Market, is a historic area featuring shops, restaurants, art galleries, live outdoor entertainment and El Mercado – the largest Mexican marketplace outside Mexico. Free. 514 W. Commerce. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com San Antonio Missions National Historical Park includes four frontier missions along the San Antonio River, the Espada Dam and Aqueduct. Visitors can start at the park’s visitor center at Mission San José and continue on Mission Trail Parkway to the Concepción, San Juan Capistrano and Espada missions. Established in the 18th

century by Spain, the missions were charged with converting local Native Americans to Catholicism, served as vocational and educational centers and were involved in agriculture and ranching. Free. 210-932-1001. www.nps.gov/saan Stroll, shop and dine on the River Walk or learn about the rich history of the San Antonio River when you take a narrated boat ride tour. Dining boats available. 210-244-5700.

San Fernando Cathedral was founded on March 9, 1731 by a group of 15 families of 55 settlers who came from the Canary Islands at the invitation of King Phillip V of Spain to settle the remote territory and prevent possible incursion by France. San Fernando was the first parish church in Texas and is the oldest cathedral sanctuary in the United States. Free. 115 Main Plaza.

210-227-1297. www.catholicearth.com

Spanish Governor’s Palace, a National Historic Landmark, is the only remaining example of an 18th-century Spanish aristocrat’s house in Texas.

Dating to 1722, the stucco building has 10 rooms with period furnishings and a courtyard with fountain. It was built as the home of the presidio captain who protected Mission San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo) and later became the seat of government for the Spanish Province of Texas. 105 Military Plaza.

210-224-0601. www.spanishgovernorspalace.org Tower of the Americas was the built to serve as the theme structure for the 1968 World’s Fair held in San Antonio.

The tower provides a view of the city from the observation deck of a 750-foot building that also houses a revolving restaurant. 600 HemisFair Park.

210-223-3101. www.toweroftheamericas.com

2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Museums

Buckhorn Museum features exhibits of wildlife from all over the world, a collection of horns and antlers, and the Texas Ranger Museum with a recreation of San Antonio at the turn of the century including a saloon, jail, blacksmith shop and telegraph office.

Also, a Bonnie & Clyde exhibit with a 1934 Ford V8 Deluxe. 318 E. Houston St. 210-247-4000. www.buckhornmuseum.com Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio is dedicated to educating our community about the dangers of hatred, prejudice & apathy through exhibits and educational programming that honor the memory of the six million Jews. 12500 NW Military Hwy. 210-302-6807. www.hmmsa.org Institute of Texan Cultures interactive exhibits and displays tell the stories of immigrant cultural groups that settled in Texas. The Back 40 is an outdoor 6

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living history area with a one-room schoolhouse, log house, adobe house and army fort barracks typical of Texas in the 1800s. 801 E. César E. Chávez Blvd.

210-458-2300. www.texancultures.com McNay Art Museum focuses primarily on 19th-and 20th-century European and American art, including works by Cezanne, Picasso, Gauguin, Matisse, O’Keeffe and Hopper. Contemporary art, modern sculpture and touring exhibitions are housed in the Jane and Arthur Stieren Center. Family Days every month include hands-on art activities. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-824-5368. www.mcnayart.org Museo Alameda, located in historic Market Square, tells the story of the Latino experience in America through art, history and culture. In partnership with the nation’s Smithsonian Museum, the Alameda presents exhibits, education

programs and performances. 101 S. Santa Rosa St. 210-299-4300. The museum is operated by Texas A&M University. www.thealameda.org San Antonio Children’s Museum provides hands-on experiences on three floors of interactive play exhibits, and weekly science, art and early childhood activities for children ages infant-10. 305 E. Houston St. 210-212-4453. www.sakids.org The San Antonio Fire Museum showcases antique fire apparatus, artifacts dating back to the mid-1800s, archived documents and photos that highlights the history of the San Antonio Fire Department. 801 E. Houston.

210-390-7236

Texas Transportation Museum includes a working railroad, railroad layouts of various gauges, automobiles, carriages and a fire engine. Train rides available on weekends. 11731 Wetmore Road.

210-490-3554. www.txtransportationmuseum.org Witte Museum features history and natural science exhibits, national traveling exhibits and family programs.

H-E-B Science Treehouse includes hands-on science activities for all ages; the interactive Move It! A Game of Action; Mount Witte, a 20-foot rock climbing wall overlooking the San Antonio River; and the H.E.Buddy SkyCycle, an outdoor bicycle ride 14 feet in the air. 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1900. www.wittemuseum.org

San Antonio Museum of Art is located on the River Walk and has large collections of ancient Mediterranean art, Asian art and Latin American art with a notable contemporary collection.

200 West Jones Avenue 210-978-8100 www.samuseum.org Texas Air Museum features vintage aircraft. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of the roles San Antonio and Texas played in the development of military air power. The museum honors the pioneers of aviation, technical advancements and to those giving their lives to defend freedom. The museum is south of downtown at Stinson Airport, 1234 99th St. 210-977-9885. www.texasairmuseum.org 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Sightseeing Tours

Alamo City Ghost Tours offers an Alamo Ghost Hunt Tour that visits 13 haunted locations and a Ghost and Graveyard bus tour that includes walking through some of San Antonio’s oldest graveyards. This excursion is one of the top ghost tours in the country todays in the country today. 210-336-7831. www.alamocityghosttours.com Alamo Helicopter Tours provides trips of various lengths from Stinson Airport, flying over downtown landmarks or out over the Hill Country landscape. Holiday Lights tours are provided as well. 8535 Mission Road, Suite 104. 210-287-5797. www.alamohelicoptertours.com Austin Steam Train Association operates trains on scenic routes through the Central Texas countryside.

Passengers board at Cedar Park. Office: 401 E. Whitestone Boulevard, Cedar Park. 512-477-8468. www.austinsteamtrain.org

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Horse-drawn carriage rides are offered through downtown by several companies. Narrated tours of various lengths pass by historic sites.

Bluebonnet Carriage Co., 210-5992474, www.bluebonnetcarriage.com; Lone Star Carriage Co., 210 656-7527, www.lonestarcarriage.com; and Yellow Rose Carriage Co., 210-225-6490, www.yellowrosecarriage.com Helicopter Tours of Texas offers scenic tours high above the Texas Hill Country. www.helitourstx.com Rio San Antonio Cruises offers narrated, 40-minute barge trips along the San Antonio River. Purchase tickets and board at Rivercenter Mall, Market Street bridge, Aztec Theatre river level or the Lock and Dam near Brooklyn Street bridge. Office: 205 N. Presa St. 210-244-5700. www.riosanantonio.com

Silverghost Tours offers a 90-minute Ghosts and Legends of San Antonio walk of less than one mile through downtown, with stops along the way. 210-215-2172. www.silverghosttours.com VIA Bus Route 7 – the “Sightseer Special” – connects the Alamo, San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, San Antonio Zoo, Japanese Tea Garden, Brackenridge Park, and the San Antonio Botanical Garden. 210-362-2020. www.viainfo.net

DAY TRIPPIN

Texas Travel Information, 800-452-9292. http://www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/ division/travel.html Texas State Travel Guide – Free visitor information guide book, travel map and accommodations. 800-888-8839; www.traveltex.com

Hill Country Austin – 800-926-2282, www.austintexas.org Bandera – 800-364-3833, www.banderacowboycapital.com Boerne – 888-842-8080, www.visitboerne.org Fredericksburg – 888-997-3600, www.visitfredericksburgtx.com Gruene – 830-629-5077, www.gruenetexas.com Kerrville – 800-221-7958, www.kerrvilletexascvb.com New Braunfels –800-572-2626, www.nbjumpin.com

2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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2015 Year Calendar

January

MLK Day: Events include one of the nation’s largest marches in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The annual march begins at MLK Academy on MLK Drive, proceeding to PittmanSullivan Park for a commemorative program. 210-207-2098. www. sanantonio.gov/mlk.

February

Asian Festival: Celebrate the Year of the Snake and learn about the many Asian cultures of Texas with music, crafts, ethnic dancing, multicultural demonstrations and a wide variety of Asian food. Institute of Texan Cultures.

210-458-2300. www.texancultures.com San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo: A 19-day event of Texas-style family fun includes daily rodeo performances with live musical entertainment, livestock 10

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and horse shows, and a Family Fair with pig races, a petting zoo, pony rides and a carnival. AT&T Center and Freeman Coliseum grounds. 210225-5851. www.sarodeo.com. Rodeo tickets: 877-637-6336 or www.ticketmaster.com Mardi Gras River Parade: Features a procession of decorated river barges that transform the San Antonio River into a floating Bourbon Street.

Krewes of costumed revelers and live entertainment celebrate Mardi Gras San Antonio-style. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

March

“Remembering the Alamo” Weekend:” A dramatization of the events of the final two days (March 5 and 6, 1836) of the 13-day siege of the Alamo by Gen. Santa Anna’s army.

Alamo Plaza. 210-273-1730. www. sanantoniolivinghistory.org.

Luminaria: Annual celebration of art and artists in the city. Event showcases all art forms, including activities and performances in downtown San Antonio, both inside and outdoors.

210-212-4999. www.luminariasa.org.

Day complete with food, games and activities. 210-227-4262. www.harpandshamrock.org www.irishculturalsociety.com

April

A Fest of Tails: Kite festival and dog fair includes live music, arts and crafts, kite-flying demonstrations and a pooch parade with prizes for best-dressed dog.

McAllister Park. 210-212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org

Poteet Strawberry Festival: Annual berry bash features rodeo performances, a carnival, arts and crafts, strawberry judging and auction, and continuous entertainment including nationally known Country and Western and Tejano stars. 9199 N. Texas 16 in Poteet, 30 minutes south of San Antonio. 888-742-8144. www. strawberryfestival.com.

St. Patrick’s Day: Events in observance of the celebration the include a downtown street parade, Dyeing O’ the River Green and St. Patrick’s Day River Parade and Festival along the San Antonio River and Irish Heritage

Fiesta San Antonio: Eleven-day citywide celebration includes more than 100 events –street and river parades, festivals, carnivals, sports, fireworks, art exhibits, music and ethnic feasts. Family-friendly events 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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2015 Year Calendar

May

Cinco de Mayo: Commemorates the Mexican Army’s defeat of the invading French at the Battle of Pueblo on May 5, 1862. Events include a festival with music and food at historic Market Square. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com Tejano Conjunto Festival: An outdoor festival featuring live performances by more than 20 Conjunto bands. The 32nd annual festival includes a student recital, accordion raffle and food booths. Rosedale Park. 210-271 3151. www.guadalupeculturalarts.org Soul Food Festival: Annual event in La Villita features youth performers, Gospel and R&B music, soul food, arts and crafts, and children’s activities.

Take a canned food donation for the Little Church at La Villita and the San Antonio Food Bank. 210-213-7066. www.lavillitaheritage.com

include the Paseo del Rio Children’s Festival on the River Walk. The Battle of Flowers – the first Fiesta event in 1891 – honored the memory of Texas heroes. 210-227-5191. www.fiesta-sa.org San Antonio Highland Games: 14th anniversary games featuree traditional Scottish heavy athletics, Celtic music and dance performances, bagpipe competition, parade of Scottish dogs, sheep herding trials and children’s activities in the Kid’s Glen. Helotes Festival Grounds off Bandera Road. www.sahga.org 12

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Military River Parade: The men and women of the United States armed forces as well those having served in recent years will be honored during this event. About 25 floats will travel down the downtown river featuring all branches of service, veterans of recent conflicts and military support groups. The floats will feature live entertainment from military groups and local artists.

Fiesta Noche Del Rio: A fast-paced musical revue presented at the Arneson River Theatre from May through August featuring beautifully-costumed dancers and singers with lively music from Mexico, Spain, Argentina, and Texas. Proceeds benefit local children’s

charities. 210-226-4651. www.fiestanochedelrio.com Cornyval: Event features rodeo performances, carnival, corn-eating contest, parade, live entertainment, family area with kids’ catfishing, gunslingers, clowns and a Medicine Wagon with T-Bone the longhorn steer, arts and crafts, food. Helotes Festival Grounds off Bandera Road. 210-6952103. www.cornyval.com

June

Texas Folklife Festival: A celebration of the diverse ethnic and cultural groups that settled the state. Some 45 different groups share their stories, crafts, music, dance and food. Institute of Texan Cultures on the grounds of Hemisfair Park. 210-458-2224. www. texasfolklifefestival.org Juneteenth: Events celebrate the date – June 19, 1865 – that Texas slaves

received word they were free. Includes a parade, pageant and festival with live music, Gospel groups, food and children’s activities at Comanche Park #2. 210-527-1830. www.juneteenthsanantonio.com

July

Independence Day: Events around town include the July Fourth Celebration and Fireworks at Woodlawn Lake featuring a children’s parade, food, music, dance, arts and crafts, games for youngsters and fireworks at dusk. 210-212-8423. www. saparksfoundation.org. Also, events in Market Square, 210-207-8600, www.marketsquaresa.com ; and at the Alamo, 210-225-1391, www.thealamo.org

August

Canoe Challenge: More than 90 canoe teams compete in a canoe challenge 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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2015 Year Calendar

on the San Antonio River downtown.

Teams include local celebrities, city officials, corporate teams, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. Race begins and ends at the Chamber of Commerce. Free for spectators. 210-227-4262. www. thesanantonioriverwalk.com St. Louis Day Festival: Castroville’s historic St. Louis Catholic Church presents its annual summer festival on the banks of the Medina River. Includes a beef and sausage dinner, live entertainment, bingo, horseshoe pitching, and a Kids’ Korner with carnival rides, games and a fishing pond. 830-931-2826. wwwcastrovilletx.com/castroville-stlouis-day.htm People en Español Festival: The two-day festival celebrates Latino 14

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culture and entertainment with concerts, celebrity appearances, family activities, workshops and more. The festival relocated from New York to San Antonio last year. www.peopleenespanol.com/package/ festival-people-en-espanol-2012

September

Diez y Seis: Marking Mexico’s independence from Spain, San Antonio celebrates September 16 with a parade along Guadalupe Street and festival of music and dance with a children’s area.

210-223-3151. www.avenidaguadalupe. org; and Fiestas Patrias in historic Market Square. 210-207-8600. www. marketsquaresa.com Jazz’SAlive: One of the largest outdoor jazz festivals in the country features

local, regional and national performers, children’s activities and a hands-on children’s music workshop. Activities are set for Travis Park downtown.

210-212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org

October

International Accordion Festival: Festival of accordion performances, workshops and music jams celebrating the versatility of the accordion and accordion-based international styles of music is held in La Villita. 210-852-0109. www. internationalaccordionfestival. org

Halloween: A variety of Halloween and fall festivals take place around the city including BOOtanica at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, Zoo Boo at the San Antonio Zoo, Treat Street at LaVillita’s Maverick Plaza. BOOtanica includes a costume parade, storytelling, games and crafts. 210-207-3250. www. sabot.org Zoo Boo features trick-or treating, games and a costume contest.

210-734-7184. www.sazoo-aq.org Treat Street offers entertainment booths, giveaways and activities, and free trick-or treating. 210-366-1129. www.foxsanantonio.com

Greek FUNstival: Annual event includes live Greek music and folk dance, authentic foods, raffle and Greek gift items for purchase in the agora (marketplace). St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church.

210-735-5051. www.stsophia. tx.goarch.org River Walk Lucky Duck Race: Watch as more than 25,000 rubber ducks race down the San Antonio River to benefit Haven for Hope and the Paseo del Rio Association.

San Antonio Founders Day: Music, dance, historical re-enactments and youth entertainers highlight the founding of the city. Children’s area features a History Trail, Explorer’s Hideaway and craft activities. Activities are held at The Alamo and Alamo Plaza. www.sanantoniofoundersday.org 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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2015 Year Calendar

November

Dia de los Muertos: Traditional altars, exhibits and events at galleries, museums and cultural centers around town celebrate the Day of the Dead, the Mexican custom of honoring the memory of family members and loved ones who have passed away. Includes events at Market Square, SAY SĂ­ and Centro Cultural Aztlan. 210-432-1896. www.sacalaveras.com Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony: More than two million lights glitter in the trees along the River Walk following the annual lighting ceremony marking the Christmas holidays. An illuminated river parade featuring decorated floats with celebrities, bands and costumed participants follow the 16

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lighting ceremony. San Antonio River downtown. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com Texas Hill Country Christmas Lighting Trail: Nearby Hill Country towns light up for the holidays when Bandera, Blanco, Boerne, Burnet, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg, Johnson City, Kerrville, Llano, Marble Falls, New Braunfels and Wimberley switch on their Christmas lights. Each community offers special holiday events. 866-839-3378 www.tex-fest.com Holiday Boat Caroling: More than 185 school, church, business and civic choral groups sing traditional carols on floating barges along the San Antonio River downtown. Music

includes bell choirs, folk groups and Latino ensembles that perform nightly.

210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

in Spanish by the Guadalupe Players with an accompanying commentary in English. Mission San Jose. 210-9223218. www.loscompadres.org

Dickens on Main: Downtown Boerne’s annual holiday festival includes a Weihnachts (Christmas) Parade, pet parade, live entertainment, carriage rides, late night shopping and food booths. 888-500-0890. www.dickensonmain.com

La Gran Posada: Staged every year

by San Fernando Cathedral, the re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter begins in Milam Park and continues through Market Square to the cathedral on Main Plaza. 210227-1297. www.sfcathedral.org

Light the Way: Annual lighting of the University of the Incarnate Word campus for the holiday season. www. uiw.edu. 210-829-6001.

Blessing of the Animals: Pets are blessed by a priest in honor of the animals present at the first nativity.

Families take a wide variety of pets each year. Market Square. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com

Diwali Festival of Lights: The festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil features dance, a handicrafts bazaar, fireworks displays and authentic Indian cuisine. The event is at Hemisfair Park near the Institute of Texan Cultures.

210-273-2200. www.diwalisa.com

December

Fiesta de las Luminarias: Thousands of luminarias (candles in sand-filled bags) line the River Walk on weekends, beginning at dusk. The tradition symbolically marks the lighting of the way for the Holy Family. San Antonio River downtown. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com Los Pastores: Traditional Hispanic folk play depicts the age-old conflict between good and evil, telling the story of the shepherds’ journey to worship the Christ Child and the obstacles the devil places before them. Performed

Kids’ Countdown: A children’s event to ring in the New Year features a confettifilled countdown to noon followed by a sparkling juice toast and special New Year’s art activities. Reservations required. San Antonio Children’s Museum. 210-212-4453. www.sakids.org Celebrate San Antonio: Annual downtown New Year’s Eve bash includes live music, food booths, a family stage at Arneson River Theatre and fireworks at midnight. Market and Alamo streets downtown. 210-2128423. www.saparksfoundation.org Valero Alamo Bowl: The bowl game showcases two of the premier conferences in the country – the Big 12 and Pac-12 – in a football showdown inside the Alamodome. www. valeroalamobowl.com/main 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Indoor Play

This is not an-all inclusive listing.

Amazing Jump features large trampolines, dodge ball courts, trampoline basketball courts, trampoline playground and more. Interstate 35 North at the Eisenhower Road exit. 210946-9800. www.sanantoniojump Amazing Mirror Maze offers family fun with surprising twists, turns, dead ends, continuous circles, reflections of yourself in every direction and a laser beam challenge. 2174-2288. www. amazingmazes.com Dave and Busters, offers a large variety of games including Quad Air hockey, Monster Drop, Dirty Driving, Connect 4, and Doodle jump which is played on your phone. 440 Crossroads Boulevard, 210-515-1515. www.daveandbusters.com Funtastic Playland offers open play dailyeekends. It features a monster truck, castle, pirate ship, back yard adventure, basketball court, moon bounce and separate toddler area. 7142 San Pedro, 18

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Suite 112. 210-979-7529. www.funtasticplayland.com Mall Indoor Children’s Playground provides a outlet for kids after the family finishes shopping.

• Loop 410 West at Ingram Road (inside Ingram Park Mall) • 7400 San Pedro Avenue (inside Northstar Mall) • 6909 North Loop 1604 East (inside Rolling Oaks Mall) Inflatable Wonderland gives kids 12 and under a place to run and jump after the family takes a break from shopping in the mall. 6909 N. Loop 1604 East, #2063 (inside Rolling Oaks Mall).

210-212-4386. WonderlandMall 4522 Fredericksburg Road. www.inflatablewonderlandsa.com Thin Air is an “Extreme Air Sports” park, with large trampolines and Ninja warrior-style obstacle courses. 4902

Fredericksburg Road, 210.802.0715. www.thinairpark.com Just Add Children is an indoor playground and party center for ages 1 to 10. 7715 Mainland Road, Ste.123. 210520-2291. www.justaddchildren.com Kiddie Park Pica Pica provides a modernized take on old fashioned fun.

The new South Side venue features a carousel, jump houses, an arcade, face painting, a whip ride, a train, a carnival style snack bar, and several party rooms for birthday parties. 910 S.E. Military Drive. 210-922-2048. www.kiddieparkpicapica.com Laser Legend is a family-friendly spot with laser tag, pizza, party rooms, an arcade & black-light-themed mini-golf.

7505 North Loop 1604 East #101, 210444-9025. www.laserlegend.com Laser Quest is a familyvenue that combines classic games hide-andseek and tag with a high tech twists.

Northwest San Antonio – 6420 N.W.

Loop 410, 210-520-8555; and North Central – 606 Embassy Oaks, Ste. 200, 210-499-4400. www.laserquest.com At Monster Mini Golf everyone gets an opportunity to play golf with creepy, crawly monsters. 2267 N.W. Military Highway. 210-979-8888. www.monsterminigolf.com Pee-Wee Bees offers a play facility for ages 3 months to 6 years to play. It offers structures to climb, toys roller coaster ride, bounce house and more. 5511 W. Loop 1604 North, Ste. 111.

210-521-2337. http://v2.peeweebees.com/ Pump It Up! Inflatable slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses at two locations in San Antonio. Both offer Pop-In Playtime. Call individual locations for times. Northeast: 14036 Nacogdoches Road. 210-653-0700. www.pumpitupparty.com Northwest: 7723 Guilbeau Road, Ste. 102. 210-523-8883. www.pumpitupparty.com 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Skating and Bowling

Bowling Lanes

Ice Skating

Brunswick, 4330 Thousand Oaks Drive, 210-654-0031

Roller skating

University Bowl, 12331 W. Interstate 10, 210-699-6235

Oak Hills Lanes, 7330 Callaghan Road, 210-344-6251 AMF Country Lanes, 13307 San Pedro Ave. 210-496-3811

Ice and Golf Center at Northwoods, 17530 Henderson Pass, 210-490-9550, www.northwoodsice.net.

Car-Vel Skate Center Leon Valley, 6807 Bandera Road, 210-684-8900; Car-Vel Skateland South, 2351 Goliad Road, 210-337-6200

Bandera Super Bowl, 6700 Huebner Road, 210-523-1716

Rollercade, 223 Recoleta Road, 210-826-6361

AMF Wonder Lanes, 1948 Austin Highway, 210-655-1610

Skateland East, 8910 Fourwinds Drive, 210-653-5333

AMF Ponderosa Lanes, 2118 Goliad Rd,210-333-6150

Skateland West, 2327 S.W. Loop 410, 210-673-2568

Skating Parks

Skate facilities are available in the following city parks.

Bellaire, 733 Ansley Rd. Oscar Perez, 8601 Timber Path Cuellar, 5626 San Fernando Palo Alto, 1625 Palo Alto Rd. Lady Bird Johnson, 1700 Nacogdoches Rd. Perez Memorial Park, 8601 Timber Path Martinez, 201 Merida San Pedro Springs, 1305 San Pedro Ave. Medina Base Road, 6303 Medina Base Rd. South Side Lions, 3100 Hiawatha Normoyle Park, 700 Culberson Spring Time Park, 6571 Spring Time 20

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Outdoor Fun

Embassy Miniature Golf, situated behind the Embassy 14 Theatre complex, also offers a other family-friendly activities such as the ultimate water-balloon battle game. 500. 210-496-5847. www. embassygolfFiesta Farm is a hands-on farm for family visits, field trips anda petting zoo, pony rides, horseback riding, play areas and learning activities about animals and the environment. 8497 Farm Road 1560 N. between Culebra and Shaenfield roads. 210-316-3166. www. fiestafarmlc.com Green Acres Golf and Games offers attractions such as two-18 hole miniature golf courses, go karts, a paintball field, bumper boats with water squirters, water war, batting cages, mining sluice and animaland to stuff and dress different animals of your choice. It also offers a game room. 9782 U.S. 87 East. 210-649-4653. www.greenacresminigolf.com.amusement park for children since 1925 includes kiddie cars and airplanes, boat ride, ferris

wheel and carousel. 3015 Broadway.

210-824-4351.com Malibu Castle features miniature golf, go karts, bumper boats, batting cages and a game room. 3330 Cherry Ridge Drive.

210-341-6663. www.malibugrandprix.com Morgan’s Wonderland is a fully accessible family fun park with 25 acres of attractions and rides designed for special-needs individuals of all ages and their families.

Reservations suggested. 5223 David Edwards Drive atand Wurzbach Parkway.

210-495-5888. www.MorgansWonderland.com Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch features a drive through safari for viewing, photographing and feeding more than 50 species of exotic and rare animals from all over the world. 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, between San Antonio and New Braunfels. 830-438-7400. www.wildliferanchtexas.com 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Outdoor Fun & Attractions

San Antonio Aquarium features thousands of species! Families can experience up close sharks, stingrays, corals, lorikeets, tropical fish, exotic reptiles and a giant pacific octopus. 6320 Bandera Road, 210-802-7063 www.sanantonioaquarium.net

SeaWorld attractions include animal shows, live, a water park, Sesame Street Bay of Play, and Azul, a new theatrical animal show with beluga whales, dolphins, birds and acrobatic performers. 10500 SeaWorld Drive. 800-700-7786. www.seaworld.com/sanantonio

San Antonio Zoo houses one of the largest animal collections in the country, with more than 3,500 animals representing 600 species on 56 acres.

Miniature trains run on a two-mile route through Brackenridge Park. Trains can be boarded at the zoo, which is open 365 days a year. 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo-aq.org.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas features live entertainment, water park rides and rollercoaster thrill rides. 17000 IH-10 West. Take exit 555, La Cantera Parkway.

210-697-5050. www.sixflags.com

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort features 40 water attractions including slides, rides, chutes and coasters, a’s wateThe Falls, a new 3,600 foot long whitewater river with rapids, water falls and giant waves. 381 E. Austin St., New Braunfels.

830-625-2351. www.schlitterbahn.com 22

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Splashtown features more than 50 rides and attractions on 20 acres and includes a Kids’ Kove and Dive-In Movies. 3600 N. IH-35. 210-227-1400. www.splashtownsa.com Texas Ski Ranch (TSR) is a 70-acre action sports facility that offers cable lake wakeboarding and waterskiing, rock climbing and much more. 830-627-2843. www.texasskiranch.com

Natural Wonders

Register for a guided tour of Canyon Lake Gorge to get a glimpse of the Earth’s inner workings. Geology novices and experts have been trekking to the area since the massive flood of 2002 carved out the gorge that has been called a geological phenomenon. Canyon Lake. 830-9645425. www.canyongorge.org Cascade Caverns’ 90-foot waterfall is the grand finale of a one-hour guided tour. The half-mile long and 140-footdeep cavern is water-formed with millions of drops of pure water falling on rock formations. Also, First Fridays Flashlight Tour and a three-hour adventure tour to the Lower Cave.

From San Antonio, take West to exit 543 and follow the signs to Cascade Caverns. 830-755-8080. www.cascadecaverns.com Cave Without a Name is a natural living cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, cave drapery,

flowstones, rimstone dams and more.

A one-hour tour of six rooms of formations follows easy walkways.

325 Kreutzberg Road, 12 miles from Boerne. 830-537-4212. www.cavewithoutaname.com Natural Bridge Caverns are caves and ancient formations 180 feet below ground. Also, adventure tours, hidden passages tour, lantern tours, a mining sluice and outdoor climbing tower.

Take I-35 North to exit 175. Travel west on Farm Road 3009 to caverns.

210-651-6101. www.naturalbridgecavern Wonder World Park features an earthquake-formed cave, along with the Tejas Observation Tower, an antigravity house, Texas wildlife petting park, rides and games. 1000 Prospect St., San Marcos. 512-392-3760. www.wonderworldpark.com 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Parks & Camping

Numerous attractions, parks, lakes and nature preserves offer outdoor fun for families, both in and out of town.

Blanco State Park comprises 104.6 acres along the Blanco River, offering camping, swimming, hiking, nature study, boating and fishing. Park Road 23, 40 miles north of San Antonio on U.S. 281. 830-833-4333. www.tpwd. state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/ blanco Brackenridge Park is located on 344 acres in central San Antonio. Family activities include fishing in the San Antonio River, walking and cycling on woodland paths, picnicking, birding and golf. Also, play areas and miniature train rides. 3700 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/ parksandrec Braunig Lake Park offers recreational opportunities including fishing, 24

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camping, boating and birding. 17500 Donop Road, about 18 miles south of San Antonio. 210-635-8289. www. braunig-calaveras.info Calaveras Lake Park provides opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing and water skiing. 10441 Sulphur Springs Road, about 20 miles south of San Antonio. 210-635-8359. www.braunig-calaveras.info Canyon Lake’s recreational opportunities include boating, fishing and swimming. Located about 40 miles northwest of San Antonio near New Braunfels. 800-528-2104. www.canyonlakechamber.com Cibolo Nature Center is a 100-acre green space featuring nature trails winding through marsh, woodlands, a prairie and past Cibolo Creek.

Workshops and programs for children and adults.140 City Park Road, Boerne,

30 miles northwest of San Antonio.

830-249- 4616. www.cibolo.org Crownridge Canyon Natural Area features level 1 ADA accessible trails and a half-mile of natural hiking trails through a variety of habitats spread over 200 acres. Includes a canopylevel bridge overlook. 7222 Luskey Boulevard. 210-564-6400. www. sanaturalareas.org Eisenhower Park offers 320 acres of Texas Hill Country landscapes, including wooded dry creek beds and rocky canyons, and trails for hiking, jogging and nature study. Located south of Camp Bullis at 19399 N.W. Military Highway. 210-564-6400. www. sanaturalareas.org Friedrich Wilderness Park’s 633 acres is maintained in its natural state, with opportunities for observing rare birds, wildlife and plant life in their natural environment. 21395 Milsa Road. 210564-6400. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Government Canyon State Natural Area is an approximately 8,624-acre site in Bexar County, just outside San Antonio. Hiking trails take visitors through terrain that includes steep slopes, canyons and scenic overlooks.

12861 Galm Road. 210-688-9055. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/ findadest/parks/government_canyon.

Guadalupe River State Park is on the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country. Recreational opportunities include fishing, swimming, tubing, hiking and an equestrian trail that can also be used for mountain biking. 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch.

830-438-2656. www.tpwd.state. tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/ guadalupe_river

HemisFair Park features 15 acres of fountains and waterfalls, historic buildings and a children’s playground.

The park includes the Tower of the Americas, Institute of Texan Cultures, Instituto de México and Magik Children’s Theatre. 200 S. Alamo St. 210-207-3677. www.sanantonio. gov/dtops Hill Country State Natural Area is situated in rugged country southwest of Bandera, including 40 miles of trails in an undeveloped, primitive park. 10600 Bandera Creek Road. 830-796-4413. www.tpwd.state.us/spdest/findadest/ parks/hill_country Japanese Tea Garden features a 60-foot waterfall, stone Japanese-style pagoda, stone bridges over Koi-filled ponds, and flowering shrubs and perennials.

The garden is a registered Texas Historic Landmark, a Texas Civil Engineering Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 3853 N. St. Mary’s St., in Brackenridge Park. 210-212-4814. www.japaneseteagarden.org McAllister Park. Three miles of paved and unpaved trails weave around a children’s playground and sandbox area. Park also includes baseball fields and a dog park. 13102 JonesMaltsberger Road. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec Medina Lake offers recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, swimming and water sports.

23 miles southeast of Bandera. 800364-3833. www.wildtexas.com/parks/ medinalk.php 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Parks & Camping

A s m V 2

A s s c o R

A A a n B w

Medina River Natural Area features 511 acres on the Medina River with hike and bike trails, fishing and a group camping area. 15890 Texas 16 South. 210-3729124. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Mitchell Lake Audubon Center is a 1,200-acre wildlife refuge and bird haven situated on wetlands, ponds and upland habitat. Offers birding tours, children’s programs, family events and guided field trips. Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, 10750 Pleasanton Road. 210-628-1639. www.mitchelllakeaudubon.org.

Phil Hardberger Park offers nature trails, picnic facilities, a playground, dog park and education programs on 311 acres. 13203 Blanco Road. 210-2073284. www.philhardbergerpark.org.

San Antonio Botanical Garden’s 41 acres include a Rose Garden, Old Fashioned Garden, Garden for the Blind, conservatories and a Native Texas Trail.

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Events and programs offered throughout the year for children and adults. 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3250. www. sabot.org.

G o g i v a 1 g

San Pedro Springs Park is the secondoldest public park in the United States, after Boston Common. Playground, pool, skate plaza, tennis courts and softball complex available. 1315 San Pedro Ave. 210-207-8480. www. sanantonio.gov/parksandrec.

S a s h A v R

Walker Ranch Historic Landmark has a half-mile paved exercise trail, a one mile nature trail, playscape and covered pavilions. 12603 West Ave. 210-5646400. www.sanaturalareas.org.

S A c m F I

Woodlawn Lake Park is more than 100 years old and offers fishing, canoeing, a playscape, athletic fields and a walking trail. 1103 Cincinnati St. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec.

S l B s w

Pet Services

Animal Care Services: City of San Antonio shelter offers pet adoption, spay/neutering, microchipping and low-cost vaccinations.

Volunteers welcome. 4710 Texas 151. 210207-4738. www.sanantonio.gov/animalcare Animal Defense League: No-kill animal shelter provides low-cost vaccination and spay/neuter services, microchipping, foster care program, free vaccinations for life for older adopted pets. 11300 Nacogdoches Road. 210-655-1481. www.adltexas.org Animal Friends Humane Society: A no-kill, nonprofit shelter offering pet adoptions with microchipping and spay/ neutering. Volunteers welcome. 213 W. Borgfeld Road. 830-980-3647. www.animalfriends4ever.org/home Guide Dogs of Texas: Nonprofit organization raises, trains and provides guide dogs for Texans who are visually impaired. Puppy Raiser Program uses volunteers to raise and socialize puppies at home until they are 14-16 months old.

1503 Allena Drive. 210-366 4081. www. guidedogsoftexas.org San Antonio Humane Society: Pet adoptions, rescue, foster care, spay and neuter services, microchipping and Camp Humane, a humane education program for young people.

Animals accepted by appointment. Teen volunteers welcome. 4804 Fredericksburg Road. 210-226-7461. www.sahumane.org S.N.A.P.: The non-profit Spay-Neuter Assistance Program offers reducedcost vaccinations and spay/neuter and microchipping services through mobile units.

For locations, call 210-673-7722. . 6758 Ingram Road. 210-673-7722. www.snapus.org SpaySA: Nonprofit organization provides low-cost spay and neuter services for pets in Bexar County, including vaccinations prior to surgery. 1615 S. Laredo. 210-351-7729. www.spaysa.org

Dog Parks

The city has five dog parks, with fenced off leash areas, doggie drinking fountains and agility equipment.

McAllister Dog Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Pearsall Dog Park, 4700 Old Pearsall Road Phil Hardberger Dog Park East, 13203 Blanco Road; Phil Hardberger Dog Park West, 8400 N.W. Military Madison Square Dog Park, 400 Lexington. 210-207-8480.

Visit www.sanantonio.gov/ parksandrec for more information

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Theatre, Music & Dance

Alamo Arts Ballet Theatre, 210-344-9428, www.alamoartsballet.org Alamo City Dance Co., 210-495-0129, www.sanantonioschoolfortheperformingarts.com Arts San Antonio, 210-226-2891, www.artssa.org Ballet Conservatory of South Texas, 210-820-3400, www.balletsouthtexas.org Ballet San Antonio, 210-404-9641, www.balletsanantonio.org Cactus Pear Music Festival, 210-838-2218, www.cpmf.us Carver Community Cultural Center, 210-207-2234, www.thecarver.org Children’s Chorus of San Antonio, 210-826-3447, www.childrenschorussa.org

Family Theater

Children’s Fine Arts Series, 3201 West Ave. 210-340-4060, www.childrensfineartseries.org Land of Virtuosity, 8126 Broadway @ Flamingo, 210-844-4298, www.thelov.org Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 210-227-2751, www.magiktheatre.org Shakespeare in the Park: Magik Theatre at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, 210-227-2751, www.magiktheatre.org

The Rose Theatre Company, Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, 210-271- 3151, 11838 Wurzbach Road at LockhillSelma, 210-360-0004, www.guadalupeculturalarts.org www.therosetheatreco.com San Antonio Metropolitan Ballet, 210-650-8810, www.sametballet.org Stone Oak Family Theatre, 21518 Blanco Road, Suite 101, San Antonio Symphony, 210-481-2400, 210-554-1010, www.sasymphony.org www.stoneoakyouththeatre.com Texas Children’s Choir, 210-804-1804, Woodlawn Theatre, 1920 www.texaschildrenschoir.org Fredericksburg Road, Youth Orchestras of San Antonio, 210-738-1117, 210-737-0097, www.yosa.org www.woodlawntheatre.com 28

FYI | 2015

Movie Theaters

Alamo Drafthouse • Park North, 618 Northwest Loop 410 • 15900 La Cantera Pkwy,

AMC Theatres • IMAX Theatre at River Center, 849 E. Commerce St. #285.

• Rivercenter 9, 849 E. Commerce St. #800.

• Aztec Theatre, 201 E. Commerce St. #300.

Cinemark • Cinemark 9, 4224 S. New Braunfels Ave, #601.

• Cinemark Dollar Movies 16, 5063 N.W. Loop 410.

City Base Cinema • 2623 SE Military Drive www.citybasecinema.com

Regal Cinemas

• Alamo Quarry, 16, 255 E. Basse Road.

• Cielo Vista18, 2828 Cinema Ridge.

• Fiesta 16, 12631 Vance Jackson.

• Live Oak 18, 7901 Pat Booker Road.

• Northwoods Stadium 14, 17640 Henderson Pass.

• Picolo, 2803 Austin Highway.

Santikos

• Bijou at Crossroads, 4522 Fredericksburg Raod.

• Embassy 14, 13707 Embassy Row. • Granada 16 Stadium, 410 West Loop 1604 North.

• Mayan 14 Palace, 1918 S.W. Military Drive.

• Northwest Stadium 14, 7800 W. Interstate 10.

• Palladium IMAX, 17703 Interstate 10 West.

• Silverado 16 Theatre, 11505 W. Loop 1604 North.

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Libraries

Bazan, 2200 W. Commerce St.; 210-225-1614

Las Palmas, 515 Castroville Road; 210-434-6394

Boerne, 210 N. Main St., Boerne; 830-249-3053

Maverick, 8700 Mystic Park; 210-680-9346

Brook Hollow, 530 Heimer; 210-496-6315 Carver, 3350 E. Commerce St.; 210-225-7801 Central Library, 600 Soledad; 210-207-2500 Cody, 11441 Vance Jackson; 210-696-6396

McCreless, 1023 Ada; 210-532-4254 Memorial, 3222 Culebra; 210-432-6783 Mission, 3134 Roosevelt Ave; 210-207-2704 Pan American, 1122 W. Pyron; 210-924-8164

Collins Garden, 200 N. Park; 210-225-0331

Parman at Stone Oak, 20735 Wilderness Oak; 210-207-2703

Cortez, 2803 Hunter; 210-922-7372

Pruitt at Roosevelt High School, 5110 Walzem Road; 210-650-1122

Forest Hills, 5245 Ingram Road; 210-431-2544 Great Northwest, 9050 Wellwood; 210-684-5251 Guerra, 7978 Military Drive West; 210-673-1492 Igo, 13330 Kyle Seale Parkway; 210-561-6113 Johnston, 6307 Sun Valley; 210-674-8410 Landa, 233 Bushnell; 210-732-8369 30

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San Pedro, 1315 San Pedro Ave.; 210-733-1454 Semmes, 15060 Judson Road; 210-650-9540 Thousand Oaks, 4618 Thousand Oaks; 210-657-5205 Tobin at Oakwell, 4134 Harry Wurzbach; 210-828-2569 Westfall, 6111 Rosedale Court; 210-344-2373

Websites

For Kids

Local Blogs

www.abcmouse.com www.nickjr.com www.pbskids.org www.clubpenguin.com www.starfall.com www.coolmath-games.com www.girlsgogames.com

www.citymomsblog.com/alamocity www.sachartermoms.com www.sanantoniomomblogs.com www.sabusykids.com

Our Kids Online For Parents www.getcreativesanantonio.com www.downtowntuesday.com www.mysapl.org www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec www.visitsanantonio.com www.parenthood.com www.getcreativesanantonio.com

www.ourkidsmagazine.com www.facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA www.facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210 www.twitter.com/OurKidsMagazine www.pinterest.com/ourkidsmagazine www.instagram.com/ourkidsmagazine www.flickr.com/photos/ourkidssa/

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Sports in San Antonio

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs’ season generally runs from October to midApril. The season can extend through May if the team advances to the playoffs. For ticket information and a schedule go to the official Spurs website at www.nba. com/spurs.

San Antonio Silver Stars

The Silver Stars’ season is from May through August.

Should the team make the playoffs, the season extends through September. For ticket information and a schedule go to the official Silver Stars website at www.wnba.com/ silverstars.

San Antonio Missions

Missions’ baseball runs from April through September.

If the team advances to the playoff the season extends to October. Visit the team’s official website at www. minorleaguebaseball.com/index.jsp?sid=t510 for tickets and schedule information.

San Antonio Rampage

The Rampage season runs from October through midApril. The season can be extended through May should the team make the playoffs. Go to the team’s official website at www.sarampage.com for a schedule and ticket information.

San Antonio Talons

The Talons, an Arena Football League franchise, completed its first season in San Antonio last year.

The team’s 2013 season begins in March. Visit www. sanantoniotalons.com/tickets/ or call 855-SA-TALONS for ticket information.

San Antonio Scorpions

The Scorpions, a North American Soccer League franchise, plays in the Toyota Field, as part of Soccer For A Cause, all net profits from Scorpions matches and season ticket sales go to benefit Morgan’s Wonderland and the special needs community.

Call 210-495-8686 for ticket information.

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Schools San Antonio is home to one medical school, the University of Texas Health Science Center and six institutions of higher education – Our Lady of the Lake University, St. Mary’s University, Trinity University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, University of the Incarnate Word and Texas A&M University at San Antonio. Wayland Baptist University also operates a satellite campus in San Antonio. Additionally, there are four community colleges – Northeast Lakeview, Northwest Vista, Palo Alto, St. Philip’s and San Antonio College – as well as a vast number of vocational and technical institutions. The city also has about 30 private and 30+ charter schools.

Public School Districts Alamo Heights

210-824-2483

Boerne

830-357-2000

Comal

830-221-2000

East Central

210-648-7861

Edgewood 210-444-4500 Fort Sam Houston 210-368-8700 Harlandale 210-989-4300 Judson

210-945-5100

Lackland AFB

210-357-5000

Medina Valley

830-931-2243

North East

210-407-0000

Northside 210-397-8500 Randolph AFB

210-357-2300

San Antonio

210-554-2200

Somerset

866-852-9858

South San Antonio 210-977-7000 Southside 210-882-1600 Southwest 210-622-4300 Schertz-CiboloUniversal City

210-945-6200

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Parent Education

Parent Education and Support Groups While all attempts have been made to make these lists as accurate as possible, times and program availability may be subject to change. Please check information in advance to avoid disappointment.

Asthma Education Class: Classes for individuals and families on the respiratory system, asthma triggers and medications. Christus Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital.

210-704-2465.

Away We Grow: Class teaches fun ways to enhance your baby’s potential.

Topics include feeding, hand and foot development, tummytime, sensory development, maximizing strength/ coordination/flexibility, encouraging speech and language development and 34

FYI | 2015

keeping track of your child’s skills. Must be a member of WomanPlus to attend.

Join at www.SAHealth.com. Methodist Healthcare. 210-575-0355.

Baby Care Class: Three-hour single session class offered to parents in their last trimester. Includes topics such as diapering and bathing, sleep and crying patterns, normal newborn characteristics, hospital routines, and illness and safety.

Both parents encouraged to attend.

Baptist Health System.

800-529-6839. www.baptisthealthsystem. com.

Baby Safe Place: Information on safe furniture, toys and childcare activities for babies under age 1. Offered in English and Spanish. Available to those parents delivering at University Hospital. 210358-8255.

Baby U: Overview for expectant parents and grandparents interested in gaining a basic understanding of infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Aso, provides the basics of newborn care for expectant parents and grandparents.

Offered in English and Spanish.

University Hospital. 210-358-8255.

Back to Work and Breastfeeding: Two-hour course designed for mothers who are planning to return to work but want to continue breastfeeding. Baptist Health System. 800-529-6839. www. baptisthealthsystem.com.

Baptist Child and Family Services: Offers various parenting classes. Also offers information to potential foster parents as well as provide intervention services to prevent abuse. 210-832-5000. www.bcfs.net.

Boot Camp for New Dads: Class for expectant dads. Other classes available.

Methodist Healthcare. 210-575-0355. www.sahealth.com.

Breastfeeding Back to Work: The Lactation Center at Methodist Women’s Center offers a class for breastfeeding mothers planning to return to work.

Includes breast pumps, storage and transportation of milk, overcoming breastfeeding obstacles in the workplace, the emotional aspects of returning to work, introducing a bottle and changes in baby’s feeding patterns.

210-575-0355. www.sahealth.com.

Breastfeeding Bootcamp: Recommended for women in their second trimester, the University Health System program also includes a refresher session that can be scheduled at the

time of delivery. Offered in English and Spanish. 210-358-8255.

Breastfeeding Class: Three-hour class prepares expectant mother and family for breastfeeding. Topics include advantages of breastfeeding, milk production, proper initiation of breastfeeding, pumping options and milk storage. Both parents encouraged to attend. Baptist Health System. 210-2977005. www.baptisthealthsystem.com.

Child Protective Services: Informational meetings for families interested in foster care and adoption.

3635 S.E. Military Drive. 210-337-3117 or 800-236-7896 outside Bexar County.

Child Safety Seats 101: A 90-minute class recommended for parents and grandparents who are purchasing and/ or installing child safety seats. Offered in English and Spanish. University Hospital. 210-358-8255.

Childbirth Classes: Sponsored by San Antonio Birth Doulas. Topics relevant to expectant parents. 210-222-0988 ext. 204.

Childbirth Mini-Refresher Classes: Four-hour course designed especially for mothers and their partners who have attended childbirth preparation classes, or for parents who have attended class but feel they need to review the information and techniques again.

Baptist Health System. 800-529-6839.

Cooperative Parenting and Divorce: Course consists of eight weekly group meetings with other co-parents and two facilitators – one male and one female.

This course is geared for parents having already completed other cooperative 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Parent Education

parenting classes, but are still having difficulty working with the other parent on matters related to their children after the relationship has ended. When successfully completed, this 16-hour course satisfies the court-ordered cooperative parenting class required of all persons going through divorce or a split in which children are involved. Bexar Family Solutions.

210-320-2999.

Early ON: Kindergarten Readiness project helps parents and childcare providers prepare children up to age 5 for school.

Bright Ideas Café presents workshops and community events with educational activities for the entire family. Each family receives a free children’s book. www. earlyon-sa.org.

Eva’s Heroes: After School program provides an inclusive environment for individuals 14-21 years of age to interact and learn with their peers, helps 36

FYI | 2015

adolescents and young adults increase their ability to function independently and allows individuals to learn the value of teamwork. A summer program is also offered. 210-694-9090. www.evasheroes.org.

Exceptional Children: Stone Oak Therapy and Learning Institute offers clinical and educational programs for parents with special emphasis on exceptional children.

18587 Sigma Road, Ste. 200. 210-7982273. www.stoneoaktherapy.com.

Family Forward: Family Service Association programs throughout San Antonio include parenting skills, education and support.

210-299-2400.

Family to Family: A free 12-week course for family caregivers of individuals with severe mental illnesses that discusses the clinical treatment of these illnesses and teaches the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more

effectively. Christ Episcopal Church, Room 100, 510 Belknap Place. 210-7343349.

Friends and Family CPR: Parents, adults and children 12 years of age and older are invited to this class presented in conjunction with the Harper’s Embrace LifeSaver Program. Classes are offered at Baptist Medical Center. All classes are free but registration is required. 210-804-4357. www.baptisthealthsystem.com.

Happy Lungs Asthma Management Program: Twelve-month program for families and children ages 5-11 with asthma includes working with an asthma counselor in group or individual meetings to gain asthma management skills.

Goldsbury Center for Children & Families, Christus Santa Rosa Hospital, 333 N. Santa Rosa. 210-704-2464.

Helping Children Cope With Divorce: Four-hour course helps parents learn effective approaches to nurturing and disciplining children. It offers confidential, non-judgmental support and educational groups that are augmented by follow-up services and a children’s program. Services are available to families who are referred for abuse or neglect, for at-risk families, and for families who want to strengthen and improve their parenting skills. Family Services Association. 210-299-2400. www. family-service.org.

Infant and Child CPR Classes in English and Spanish: Bi-monthly classes are presented by an expert from Jumpstart CPR who provides the tools to recognize choking and airway obstruction, and basic CPR training to restore breathing and circulation. Destination Maternity, 9802

Colonnade Boulelvard. 210-694-4692. www.destinationmaternity.com.

Life-skills Programs: Roy Maas’ Youth Alternatives offers programs for parents and children ages 6 to 17. 210-340-7971.

Parent Education: An eight-week course offered at the Center for Family Relations and in workplaces, aimed at reducing stress in the family and providing essential information regarding child development, nutrition and discipline. Center for Family Relations. 210-733-3349. www. centerforfamilyrelations.org.

Parents of Hearing-Impaired Children: Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children’s Parent-Infant Program teaches parents to help their hearing-impaired children learn to listen and talk. Includes both individual and group sessions, parenting programs and loaner hearing aids.

210-824-0579. www.sunshinecottage.org.

Pediatric CPR for Friends and Family: Infant/Child CPR Pediatric Basic Life Support & Basic First Aid is a noncertifying course designed for parents, grandparents or older siblings of infants and toddlers. Methodist Healthcare. 210575-0261. www.sahealth.com.

Pets and Your Baby: As an expectant parent, you may wonder what the family pet’s reaction will be to your new bundle of joy. Class offered every other month.

Baptist Health System. 800-529-6839.

Precious Minds New Connections: Parenting programs offered in English and Spanish at various locations. Includes childcare, meal and parenting book.

Mexican American Unity Council.

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Parent Education

One-day pass to San Antonio Zoo and an H-E-B gift card given to participants completing the course. 210-978-0513 or 0519. www.mauc.org.

knowledge and support in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Center for Family Relations. 210-733-3349. www.centerforfamilyrelations.org

Precious Minds New Connections (Northside): Enrichment classes use the “Early Years” curriculum for parents, grandparents and childcare providers of infants to age 3. Childcare, including snack, provided. 210-397-7960.

Precious Minds Parent Initiative: Works with parents of children under 4 to teach them parenting skills using “Family Frameworks: The Early Years” curriculum. 210-862-2261.

Precious Minds New Connections Parenting Classes: For parents of infants up to age 4. Jewish Community Center. Includes childcare. 210-3026846.

Precious Minds New Connections Parent Education Program: For parents of children birth to age 6. Offers 38

FYI | 2015

Prepared Childbirth: A 12-hour course including tour of the labor and delivery, postpartum and nursery units, for mothers and their partners who have never attended preparation classes. The class includes physical and psychological changes, hospital admission procedures and routines, Cesarean birth, pain management options. Baptist Health

System. 800-529-6839. www. baptisthealthsystem.com.

units. Baptist Health System. 800-5296839.

San Antonio Fatherhood Campaign: Support group, programs and class information referrals for supporting fathers of all ages and stages of life.

210-227-3463.

Sons to Dads: Helps prepare new dads as they transition into fatherhood.

Dads receive the education, tools and practical hands-on experience that encourages their confidence and fosters trust with their partners. Baptist Health System. 800-529-6839. www. baptisthealthsystem.com.

Women, Infant and Children (WIC) Programs: Ongoing open enrollment.

WIC offices at several locations. 210225-1870. Christus Santa Rosa has a WIC program offering education and support. 210-704-4180.

Siblings Age 3-5/Siblings Age 6-11: Fun classes help children prepare for mom’s stay in the hospital. Activities, discussions and tour of maternal child

Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas San Antonio Support Group: Offers support for individuals diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome.

6:30 to 8 p.m. first Tue. Child and adult group meets concurrently. Conference Room C, Methodist Healthcare System, 8109 Fredericksburg Road. at Datapoint. 210-479-3740. www. tourettetexas.org

2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

39

Summer School The Clowvazar Academy Math, Reading, Writing, Science, History and more!

Special Ed. • General Ed. • Gifted-And-Talented Kinder - 12th Grade June, July, & August

210-690-4800 www.clowvazar.com

12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio, TX 78249

Apply Online Free!

Have your students learn about technology in a student-friendly environment. We help them achieve their HS Diploma and gain Technology Certification.

• Flexible Schedules, Credit Recovery, and GED Prep.

• Free Via Bus passes and easy access.

• Our students learn using computers and tablets in a project-based environment.

210-527-9250 www.satechacademy.net 2507 Fredericksburg Road • San Antonio, Texas 78201 40 FYI | 2015

Celebrating over 44 years of Excellence in Early Childhood Education

Colonial Hills United Methodist School

Three years old to Kindergarten • Spanish • Computer • Motor Skills

• Music • Weekly Chapel • Outdoor Classroom

Also offering our Little Chums Program Beginning at 18 months old

(210) 349-1092 • 5247 Vance Jackson • www.colonialhills.info

Things are Really Happening at

Hill Country Montessori There is a reason we have been voted

Kendall County’s

Best of the Best Private School 2008 through 2014

Hill Country Montessori School

50 Stone Wall Drive Boerne, TX 78006 830.229.5377 www.hcmontessori.org

From our new Middle School To our new Pavilion To our new Cross Country & Track teams

Now’s the time to come and see...

Hill Country Montessori School, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex nationality, or ethnic orgins in the administration of its policies or procedures.

2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

41

Trinity United Methodist School

Register Now for 2015-2016 ITBS scores rank top 1% in the nation

Preschool

Elementary School

Guitar, Kinder - 5th Grade 2yr old thru Pre-K Spalding, The Writing Road P iano & Interactive Spaldiing to Reading, Saxon Math, Introduction, Saxon Early Percussion Learning, Open Court Reading, Spanish & Latin, Music, Lessons.

Music Motor Skills, Spanish, P.E., Library, Computer, Art, Drama Library & Fun Texas Alliance of Accredited Private Schools

(210) 684-5214

5319 Newcome Dr. www.trinityums.org

MEDICAL CENTER AREA

SAN ANTONIO ACADEMY

For most students, the elementary years make up about half of their school lives, the foundation for the years to come. Study habits are established and life-long attitudes are developed. Values are formed.

Since 1886 The Academy has prepared young men to succeed in life.

Be honest. Be kind. Be the best you can be.速

Educating Boys for Life www.sa-academy.org

Accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest Member of the National Association of Independent School

42 FYI | 2015

733-7331

117 East French Place San Antonio, Texas 78212-5899 San Antonio Academy admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

There is a reason

Holy Spirit

has been a leader in Catholic Education for 50 years.

PK3-8TH GRADES

CATHOLIC

STATE CERTIFIED TEACHERS ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE TECHNOLOGY ENRICHED iPAD INTEGRATION COMMUNITY SERVICE HONORS PROGRAM ATHLETIC PROGRAM EXTRA CURRICULAR CLUBS LUNCH PROGRAM BEFORE/AFTERSCHOOL CARE

Come see for yourself…

Where creating is fun and a child can dream, play and imagine!

Homeschool Classes

Arty Parties

Somebody & Me (ages 2-4)

Open Art

(general admission)

Register Now! See Complete Schedule online

www.artworksartstudio.com

St.Monica Catholic School

770 West Ramsey San Antonio, TX 78216 210-349-1169 ext. 8316 or rosenfeld@hscssa.org

2 1/2 yrs. to 8th Grade

CAMP FAIR

• Before and After School Program • IPads/Laptops 1:1 Grades 3rd-8th • School Sports and Clubs • Summer Fun Program • T.C.C.E.D. Accredited

Call Now to Reserve a Booth

www.saintmonica.net

2015

305-4181 Ext. 101

210-658-6701

515 North Street, Converse Texas 78109 2 miles west of Randolph AFB on FM 78

St. Monica School admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic origin.

2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

43

Color Clay is a paint-your-own ceramic shop that offers a fun and enriching experience for kids and adults.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! We have a large variety of bisque (ready-to-paint ceramic) and offer discounts to MOPS, military, and other large groups. And the best part NO STUDIO FEES! The price on the bisque is the price you pay at checkout.

TINHE POOL ALAMO HEIGHTS 67 YEARS OF FUN IN THE SUN

Quality Swim Lessons www.HeightsPool.com (210) 824-2595 ext. 1 250 Viesca St

San Antonio, TX 78209

COME PAINT WITH US! We also offer canvas classes and have a private room for parties - check our Web Site and Facebook page for latest calendar and other information.

SUMMER PROGRAMS June 8 - Aug. 21 • WEEKLY SPORTS CAMP M-F 8 am-5:30 pm (includes tennis and swimming) • WEEKLY TENNIS CAMP M-F 10 am-2 pm (includes tennis and swimming) • SWIM LESSONS M-F morning and evening times Note: Spring Break Camps March 9-13

Come see us at 17327 IH 35, suite 202 - Schertz Ph: 210-231-0196 WWW.COLORCLAYSTUDIO.COM

44 FYI | 2015

GROUP POOL PARTIES • Birthday and Team Sports • End of year School parties • Graduation parties • Perfect for Company Picnics Junior Olympic size pool, Large baby pool, and a Beautiful four acre picnic area with tables and grills

www.facebook.com/greentreetennis

681-5261

4721 Callaghan Road (easy access from all parts of town)

www.greentreetennis.com

• Young Toddlers BILINGUAL IMMERSION

• Infants • Toddlers We are BILINGUAL a educa)onal center with bilingual IMMERSION • Preschool We are a educational center bilingual English-­‐Spanish program to help with your child BILINGUAL IMMERSION English-Spanish to •help your child After School compete in ocenter ur nwith ew gprogram lobal environment.

We are a educational bilingual compete in our new global environment.

English-Spanish program to help your child compete in our new global environment.

• Infants •• YouYoung need to presentToddlers this coupon to redeem this offer.

• Not valid for Summer Camp •orToddlers Special Programs.

• Preschool www.KidusKids.com (830) 980-1880 • After School RECEIVE ONE WEEK FREE WHEN YOU ENROLL*

25836 Hwy 281 N. San Antonio, TX 78258

25836 Hwy 281 N. San Antonio, TX 78258 25836 Hwy N. San Antonio, TX, 78258

www.KidusKids.com

‘www.KidusKids.com Celebrate (830) 980-1880 21RECEIVE years ONEof WEEK FREE WHEN YOU ENROLL* (830) 980-­‐1880 Magik –Wand RECEIVE O NE EEK FREE WHEN YOU ENROLL* • You need to present this coupon to redeem this offer. counting!

• Not valid for Summer Camp or Special Programs.

• You need to present this coupon to redeem this offer.

• Not valid for Summer Camp or Special Programs.

Season Passes

You and your family won’t find a better entertainment deal in San Antonio! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for updates on season pass information.

Birthday Parties

When you celebrate your birthday with us, we promise a unique, personalized experience your whole family can enjoy.

420 South Alamo • San Antonio, TX 78205 210.227.2751 • Magiktheatre.org 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

45

Gymnastics skills that improve independence and coordination. dination.

Or in their words,

BALLOONS WITH A TWIST!

Balloon Artists Face Painters • Clowns • Kids Parties • Corporate Events • Family Entertainment

The Little Gym ages 4 months through 12 years reach their greatest potential.

Structured lessons, unique themes and a nurturing environment build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Join us for a free introductory visit!

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

734-9860

www.balloonamations.com • Seahorses & Jelly Fish • Sharks & Rays • Tropical Bird Aviary • Reptile Rainforest • Crocodiles • Interact with these animals & much more!

25% OFF Annual Passes

Birthday Parties & Sleep with the Sharks

Memberships also valid to Austin Aquarium.

210-802-7063 6320 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX 78238

Book online and save an additional

www.sanantonioaquarium.net 46 FYI | 2015

$3 off admission with Promo Code OK-3 $6.95 ages 2-11, $11.95 ages12 and up and $9.95 Senior/Military

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

14603 Huebner Rd, San Antonio, TX 78230 • (866) 437-2165