Our Kids Magazine June 2015

The Go-To Resource for San Antonio Families

FREE June 2015

www.OurKidsMagazine.com

Magazine

GOING COASTAL Vacationing on the Texas Gulf Coast

THEMED BIRTHDAY

PARTIES Magazine Socializing Your

BABY Tips on Developing Infant Social Skills

Party y r o t c e r i D

Helping New Dads Adjust to

FATHERHOOD

Give our kids every chance to get better.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE THE MIRACLES ARE.

JENNIFER LOPEZ ACTRESS, MUSICIAN, TV PERSONALITY, MOM

Like all moms, I’m always concerned about my children’s well-being. But sometimes they get sick. Sometimes they get hurt. That’s why I’m so grateful we have children’s hospitals. If any child needs a miracle, they’ll do everything in their power to make one happen. Please join me in giving sick and injured children every chance to get better. Put Your Money Where the Miracles Are. Give to your Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local, fundiing critical treatments, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Find out why children’s hospitals need community support and find your member hospital at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

Give Today

CMNHospitals.org

15-CHO-0456 CMNH Cmpgn Our Kids 7_5x10_25 Color Adv01.indd 1

to Children’s Hospital of San Antonio 4/15/15 11:30 AM

table of

CONTENTS

June 2015

volume 31 • number 6

8 10 15 18

8

KEEP CALM AND DON’T STRESS OUT

Helping First-Time Fathers Adjust Postpartum

PARTY DIRECTORY

15

Tips for a Disney Themed Party

GOING COASTAL

Planning a Summer Vacation in Texas Gives Families Plenty of Exciting Options

SOCIALIZING BABY

Developing social skills for littlest kids

18

6 ON THE WEB

7 FAMILY FYI

22 CALENDAR

39 YOUR KIDS

• Pet Food Allergies • Win Texas State Aquarium or Shlitterbahn Tickets

• Talent Auditions by Inspire A Child USA • New Teen Library

• Family Theater • Ongoing Exhibits • Free Things To Do

June Theme Daddy and Me

On the Cover

STOCK PHOTO © NADEZHDA1906

IN OUR KIDS

Next month

Finding the Right Babysitter/Nanny Education Retention Water Safety Tips Special Needs

4

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

zine

zine

zine

zine

publisher’s

SING. DANCE. PLAY. LEARN...

NOTE

K5 - 8th Christian Classical Education

Nurture your child’s inner musician, and give them a gift that will last a lifetime!

Chill Out Dad! Taking care of a newborn may come “naturally” for many new mothers, but it can be a bit harder for most first-time fathers, who often have no experience with infants at all. I myself can relate to this month’s article by freelance writer Denise Yearian, who explains some of the stresses men go through as they adjust to fatherhood and offers tips on how others can help them during this period of learning and change.

Fast-forward a couple of months down the road to when your child begins exploring the world. Read “Socializing Baby” by freelancer Renee Haines for information about the importance of interacting and bonding with your baby.

Just about every kid would love to have their favorite superhero or cartoon character at their birthday party!

Most kids, though, are happy enough to have that hero featured as the theme of the party. Check out our party directory and get some creative ideas for themed parties in Magazine the article by freelancer writer Margaret Colyn Sanchez.

Even though San Antonio has countless tourist attractions right here in town, many families travel to the Texas Gulf Coast at least once during the summer.

Yvonne Vasquez gives us an overview of the attractions Magazine from Galveston to South Padre in this month’s article titled “Going Coastal”.

Make sure you take a look at our “on the web” section to see how you can win tickets for the whole family to Texas State Magazine Aquarium and Schlitterbahn.

Music and movement

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who love them.

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Åsterion Academy A NEW PRIVATE SCHOOL IN SAN ANTONIO MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL

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Providing a challenging, modern, project-based education

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We are currently accepting applications to Asterion Academy but performing interviews at our brother school, The Clowvazar Academy.

Register for Fall 2015 Today!

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

Rudy Riojas Our Kids Publisher Magazine

P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 210-305-4181 Magazine Toll Free 866-465-6936

zine PUBLISHER/EDITOR Rudy Riojas, Ext. 104

ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski, Ext. 101

CALENDAR Kelley Ramotowski, Ext. 105

DISTRIBUTION Tony Smith, Ext. 106

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. 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.

June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

5

on the

WEB

Your Go-To Online Resource for San Antonio Parents

Your Kids & Pet Food Allergies

By Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger

Summer Giveaways Win a Family 4 Pack to Schlitterbahn South Padre Island

This summer your family can experience the best the gulf coast has to offer… a 25-acre beachfront paradise.

Enjoy nearly two dozen world-class attractions, roar down 13 amazing indoor and outdoor water slides, or float one of the multiple river systems.

Download the new Our Kids Magazine App and enter by June 18, 2015 for a chance to win.

Win a Family 4 Pack to Schlitterbahn Galveston As a mom of twins plus one more, just a year apart, I am all too familiar with chaos. Don’t get me wrong – it’s usually good chaos – but chaos nonetheless. When the kids were all toddlers it was not uncommon to see one heading in every direction. More than once, I remember them bee-lining it to the pet bowl. Our dog’s food bowl was like a cookie jar in their eyes, except a lot smellier.

A few times I even caught them red-handed with their sweet little fingers about to put dog food into their mouths! That’s why, as a mom and Allergist, a new study I recently learned about is drawing both my interest and concern over what is in many popular pet foods.

The study, presented last month, at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology national meeting, concluded that a majority of pet foods contain one of the major eight food allergens.

To read more... log on to OurKidsMagazine.com 6

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

The Shlitterbahn Galveston location has more than 35 thrilling water adventures that provides a variety of entertainment for everyone!

Float in tubes through our Transportainment River System that combines three unique rivers into one endless float. Experience the thrills of our speed slides, tube slides and the Boogie Bahn surf ride. Splash and play in areas especially for smaller children. Relax in a heated pool or at a swimup refreshment bar. There is truly something for guests of all ages!

Download the new Our Kids Magazine App and enter by June 18, 2015 for a chance to win.

Win a Family 4 Pack to Texas State Aquarium

Texas State Aquarium connects people with nature and inspires conservation of the Gulf of Mexico with collection of regional sea life, coral reefs, dolphin preserve, sharks, touch pools & a playground.

Download the new Our Kids Magazine App and enter by June 18, 2015 for a chance to win.

FIND COUPONS AND WIN TICKETS TO SCHLITTERBAHN NEW BRAUNFELS

Find all the Coupons in this issue and qualify for the Special June Drawing for a Family 4-pack of tickets to Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. Name the ad and page number of each coupon. Email your answers to OurKidsMag@gmail.com Correct answers will be entered in the June 15,2015 drawing. (Hint - There are 3 clip-out coupons and 1 code coupon.)

Family

Dorothy Keck Dancers

FYI

Register Now for Summer Classes and Dance Camps!

TAP • BALLET • LYRICAL POINTE • JAZZ • HIP HOP DANCE TEAM • ACROBATICS

Is your Child

Talented?

Inspire A Child USA, a non-profit that provides after-school programs and summer camps to schools and community organizations at no cost, will be having talent auditions starting June 6th. Children K-12 can enter for a chance to win $1,000 cash and prizes. Every child who enters will automatically make it to the semi-finals, which will be held Saturday, August 1st at the Wonderland of the Americas Mall. Local celebrity judges will be looking at the contestant’s stage presence, audience participation, as well as over all creativity and performance. Auditions do not need to be in a specific category and any talent a child may have is welcomed.

Log on to www.InspireAChildUSA.org or call 210570-JUMP for more information.

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• • • OUR 55th YEAR

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED FACULTY AGES 2 1/2 THRU ADULT BEGINNER THRU ADVANCED LEVELS

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Summer At The Academy

2015

USA

New Teens Library A new 6,000 square-foot space, located on the third floor of the Central Library, offers teens out-of-school learning opportunities to engage in a variety of cuttingedge activities. These learning experiences, led by professional library staff, develop collaborative skills that allow peer-to-peer interaction in a safe, enjoyable space and prepare teens for college and employment.

Spaces within the Teen Library includes:

■■ A “Pop-Lab” that allows teens to explore 3D printing

and emerging technologies ■■ A recording studio that allows teens to create content (such as podcasts, videos and music) to be showcased on the SAPL Teen Blog ■■ A Wi-Fi lounge area, gaming space and computer lab for projects ■■ The teen book and resource collection, which includes teen fiction, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) materials, Manga and graphic novels For more information on the Teen Library at Central, call Jennifer Velasquez at 210-207-2567 or jennifer. velasquez@sanantonio.gov

Boys & Girls, Ages 4 & older

June 8-July 31

SAN ANTONIO ACADEMY CAMPUS (Located in historic Monte Vista) Summer Enrichment Office - 733-7331 ext. www.sa-academy.org

237

New Class Titles for Summer 2015 Minecraft - Legos Drawing & Painting Comic Con - Science Harry Potter – Frozen Mindstorms – Robotics Photography – Frisbee Baking – Be The Boss Pokemon – Dinosaurs

Rockets - Basketball Etiquette – Football Out On The Town Chess – WoodWorks Field Trips - Card Tricks Bugs – Fishing - Reptiles Zumba – Cartooning Reading - Dodgeball

Study/Testing Skills Star Wars - Karate Medieval Battles Sewing – King Arthur Theatre – Cooking - Clay Future Fashionistas - Math Writing - Architecture … and many, many more!

More than 350 Classes

Accredited By The Independent Schools Association of the Southwest

Celebrating Our 27th Year!

June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

7

feature

Keep Calm and Don’t Stress Out Helping First-Time Fathers Adjust Postpartum

When a child is born, much emphasis is placed on helping the new mother and baby adjust. But they aren’t the only ones undergoing major change. Most first-time fathers also experience stress due to sleep deprivation, change in routines and their own apprehensions about parenting.

“There are a myriad of emotions that come with being a new father,” says Armin Brott, author of multiple books and one DVD on fatherhood. “Most often it’s a feeling of pride and excitement. At the same time there can be apprehensions— ‘Will I be a good father?’ ‘Can we afford this?’ ‘How is this going to change our lives?’”

This was what David Wuttke found. “When my son David Jr. was born, I had overwhelming feelings of anxiety and excitement all at once,” he says. “I had been babysitting since I was 16, so my anxiety wasn’t about child care. It was the reality of the responsibility that this was my son. And that sent a shock to my system.”

Just knowing there’s another person to care for can be a big stressor for first-time fathers. Couple that with the fact 8

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

By Denise Yearian

that many men don’t initially know how to bond with their newborns.

“If a mother is nursing, it naturally brings her in contact with the baby,” says Brott. “Dads don’t have that same natural bonding method, so they often get stuck doing the dirty work.

But it shouldn’t be that way.”

Susan Maroto, LCSW and parent educator in prenatal care and postpartum adjustment, agrees. “There are things moms can do to help dads feel competent in that role,” she says.

“Encourage them to take part in all areas of child care—feeding, bathing, reading and putting the baby down. Just be careful you aren’t overly critical. Standing behind your husband and correcting his every move will only frustrate him. Show him what needs to be done then let him develop his own style.”

Fortunately for Wuttke, basic training occurred as a teen sitter and paid big dividends when his son was born. Soon after his wife Christine delivered, she enrolled in college and David was thrust into solo evening childcare.

“I never had to think about how to take care David. I just fell FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

back on my babysitting days,” says Wuttke. “If he was crying, I would say, ‘Okay, let’s guess what he needs?’ Then I’d check his diaper. If that was okay, I’d try to feed him. If he wasn’t hungry, I thought maybe he had gas or needed to sleep. One of those usually did the trick.”

For Anthony Franco, the adjustment wasn’t that easy. When his wife Lisa gave birth to the twins, Franco seemed to be fine. But four months into it, things changed.

“I started experiencing panic attacks and didn’t know why,” he remembers. “I would be in the supermarket when all of the sudden I would get this overwhelming sense of dread and lightheadedness.”

This went on for several months until Franco finally went to the doctor.

“He asked me where it was happening, and I told him it was when I was buying diapers, formula and other things for the twins,” he continues. “That’s when he pinpointed the problem. He said this happens to a lot of new fathers. He prescribed a little anti-anxiety medication and then I was fine.”

Brott believes it’s important for men to have someone with whom they can share their stress. “Some men have close friends they can confide in. But a lot don’t, so they keep all those concerns in and the stress level builds,” he says. “They shouldn’t be afraid to talk with other men and find out what they have gone through. Chances are they’ll find others felt the same way too.”

One concern most new fathers share is fatigue. Franco and Wuttke both had a hard time with this.

“The one thing I really didn’t expect was that time on a 24-hour clock had no meaning anymore,” says Franco.

“It became irrelevant after a while and we just fit sleep in whenever we could.”

The Wuttkes solved this problem by enlisting the help of relatives. “There were times Chris and I said, ‘We need a break,’ and my mom would take David so we could rest.

We even called my grandparents so we could have an occasional night out.”

Extended family and friends can be a huge help or add significant stress, depending upon the dynamic of the relationship, say experts. This is where husbands can help their wives by setting boundaries.

“Dad should take the role of communicator outside the family and, if needed, limit visitors,” says Maroto.

“Encourage others to help in practical ways such as dropping off meals, running errands or watching the baby for 20 minutes so the couple can take a quick walk.”

What’s most important is to realize this is a period of adjustment and life does get easier.

“It’s like anything new, it takes a little time,” says Franco. “It took about 18 months before I became completely comfortable with the twins. Now we’re pretty much inseparable.”

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Summer Dance Program 6 Weeks July 7 – August 13 Tues., Wed., Thurs. 4:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Tap • Ballet • Jazz • Contemporary • Acro • Hip Hop • Leaps & Turns • Dance Team Prep Add a Class for $30 1194 FM78 Schertz 210-566-4141 www.amysallstars.com

$10 OFF $10 off the first month add a class for $30 Call Now to Register.

Family Art Play Cartoon Portraits Sunday, June 28 1:00 & 3:00 pm

View portraits in the collection and work with a San Antonio artist to turn pictures of people into captivating cartoons!

Free with museum admission. McNay members reserve space by calling 210.805.1768 by noon on June 26. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Save the date for Free Family Day: Go Green! on July 19th!

6000 North New Braunfels | PO Box 6069 San Antonio, Texas 78209-0069 mcnayart.org

June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

9

PARTY DIRECTORY

Wonderful World of Planning a The

Disney Themed

Party

By Margaret Colyn Sanchez

Children love picking a theme for their birthday party and many parents enjoy planning them too. Inventing and creating games, food, invitations, and other party activities that stick to a specific theme can be a tough task. Below are some ideas for several Disney theme parties to help you brainstorm and get started on your little one’s next celebration.

Invitations The first element of the party that your guests will see and receive-even if they do not attend-are the invitations. With such a vast array of internet resources available today there are many printable options that can be very simple to put together. Or you can create your own with a few craft supplies.

For example, Aladdin is a classic Disney film that still continues to capture the attention of young audiences. An easy do-it-yourself invitation for an Aladdin themed party is to create a Flying Carpet Invitation.

■■Cut out a 7-by-4 ½ inch rectangle from a sheet of purple cardstock ■■Next, cut out a 6-by-3 ½ inch rectangle from a sheet of light blue card stock.

■■Use a fine point marker to write all party information in the center of the light blue

10

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

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PARTY DIRECTORY rectangle. Necessary information should include date, time, location, and RSVP instructions.

■■Glue the light blue rectangle on top of the purple cardstock.

■■Place yellow, red, and silver rhinestones around the edges and corners of the light blue cardstock to your liking. This can even be a fun task to include the birthday child if they are old enough.

■■Create four yellow yarn tassels for each invitation and apply to all 4 corners with a hot glue gun to adhere to the corner of the magic carpet. Cool completely before placing in envelopes.

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Party Décor The Party decorations are the second part of the celebration that guests get to view. Tying your party décor in with your Disney theme can be a fun task. One neat idea is to make Scare Floor Garland for a Monsters Inc. themed party. For this decoration you will use various light colored sheets of craft paper.

■■Cut craft paper into rectangles about the size of a greeting card.

■■Decorate the rectangles to look like doors by gluing lighter strips of paper to appear as windowpanes.

Make square or arched windows, small or large windows, the possibilities are really endless.

■■ Glue a button to act as the doorknob.

■■Lastly, punch two holes at the top corners of the rectangle and string a cord, yarn, or ribbon through the Scare Floor Garland and hang throughout the party area.

Party Games One of the most popular animated Disney characters in the world is Mickey Mouse. If a Mickey Mouse themed party is something your child would enjoy, a game of Hidden Mickey Scavenger Hunt is great for all ages.

■■Create Mickey Mouse shaped “Hidden Mickeys” with

card stock by cutting two small circles (Mickey ears)

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June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

11

PARTY DIRECTORY

THE ULTIMATE DISNEY PARTY BOOK (EDDA USA) COPYRIGHT (C) 2015 DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC. AND PIXAR ANIMATION STUDIOS

and gluing them to a larger circle, or by stapling 2 small paper plates (Mickey ears) to a larger paper plate.

■■Before the party starts, the Mickeys should be hidden in an area of the house, or party area, that will not be populated during the majority of the celebration. The Mickeys should be hidden in plain sight, but only visible from certain angles.

■■The child who collects the most Hidden Mickeys in the time given wins a prize.

Another Disney favorite is Toy Story. With the time of release of all three of its films, Toy Story easily appeals to multiple generations. A very easy game that kids really get excited about is called Woody’s Wink. All you need for this game is one deck of cards.

■■Gather guests in a tight circle and distribute as many cards from the deck as are in the group. Be sure to include the Ace of Spades as it is this card which decides who will be Woody.

■■Everyone places their card face down on the floor or table in front of them and waits for the first wink.

■■The guests in the circle are Woody’s opponents. It is Woody’s mission to secretly wink his challengers out of the game. He has to be very careful and no one may see him wink.

■■When someone gets winked at by Woody they have to flip their card over and place it in the middle of the group and declare their dismissal.

■■If Woody does get caught winking by an opponent, he is challenged and has to flip over his card and the game is over. If the challenge is incorrect then the accuser is out of the game.

12

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

Party Food & Birthday Cake Disney’s Cars is a fun party theme for kids. Once you read about one car themed party food it is easy to come up with more of your own. One simple party snack is cutting a small piece out of the top of a “fun-size” Milky Way candy bar and placing a Teddy Graham in the hole, the Teddy Graham will look like the car driver. Next, you will take 4 M&M’s or Skittles and place them around the candy bar to act as the wheels, use frosting to apply the “wheels”.

For a healthier Cars snack you can use apple slices and grapes. Simply place two toothpicks through each end of the apple slice, the apple skin is face up, and place a grape on each end of the two toothpicks. The grapes act as the wheels in this healthy party snack.

Some party planning parents decide to bake a cake or cupcakes themselves rather than purchasing from a local bakery. A very easy and adorable idea for an Up themed party is having various colored cupcakes act as the balloons from the Disney movie.

■■Take various colored frosted cupcakes and place together like a bouquet of balloons on a large sheet of cardboard.

■■At the bottom of the cardboard either draw a picture of a house, or glue a printed picture.

■■Then attach ribbon from the bottom of each cupcake to the top of the house. This really ties the cake portion of the party to the theme.

Margaret Colyn Sanchez is a freelance writer, wife, and mother of two.

THE ULTIMATE DISNEY PARTY BOOK (EDDA USA) COPYRIGHT (C) 2015 DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC. AND PIXAR ANIMATION STUDIOS

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PARTY DIRECTORY CATERING Lily’s Cookies 2716 McCullough 210-8320886 www.lilyscookies.com

Perfect for Parties! Cookies, brownies and more. Party favors. See us on facebook or online. Call to order for your party.

ENTERTAINMENT Archery Tag 2100-269-0725 Coachbobby7755@gmail.com

Let Archery Tag provide you with a dynamic environment for your child’s birthday. For 90 Minutes the kids will participate in a variety of themed archery tag games and activities.

The kids will have a fun-filled time!

Contact Coach Bobby at 210-269-0725 / coachbobby7755@gmail.com for availability and pricing.

Arriba Arte Studios 210-822-7857

Arriba Arte Studios has been entertaining children since 1991.

We’re graduates of the Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey Clown College, the only institution in this country dedicated to the art of clowning.Our experience includes birthday parties, fairs, circus and educational shows.

Balloon Boss 210-632-3246 www.balloon-boss.com

Kinderdance of Alamo City 210-680-5964 www.kinderdancealamocity. com

Yes, we do Birthday Parties!!! Let us come to your location and teach a dance and movement class for children ages3 – 9 years.

Party Pals SA 210-788-1819 www.partypalssa.com

Interactive entertainment for birthday parties, church and school festivals or any event. Invite us to your child’s party!

GIFTS Rainbow Play San Antonio 210-495-6622 Boerne/San Antonio 210698-0580 New Braunfels 830-626-1971 www.rpsoftexas.com

Perfect gifts for outdoor play! Wooden play sets, trampolines, basketball goals. Visit us on line for the location nearest you.

BeBop 210-410-0578 www.bebopsworld.com

Lucky Threads 1203 N Loop 1604 #105 210-479-5636 www.luckythread.com

Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Company Justin Cornett-Olsson, Puppeteer website: www. puppetspuppets.com email: texaspuppets@gmail. com phone#: (210)843-0785

Eulenspiegel (OIL-N-SPEEGEL) Puppet Theatre Company has an extensive history of delighting audiences with quality performances, workshops, and educational sessions in the puppetry arts. We offer shows year round and are available for birthday parties, schools, festivals, and many other occasions.

Please visit our website or call for more info!

Jump Rope Express 210-269-0725 www.Coach7755@aol.com

Let Jump Rope Express provide you with a dynamic environment for your child’s birthday. For 90 Minutes the kids will participate in jump rope games, activities, challenges and drills. The kids will have a fun-filled time! Contact Coach Bobby at 210-269-0725 / coachbobby7755@ gmail.com for availability and pricing.

2716 McCullough Ave, San Antonio 210-832-0886 | lilyscookies.com

Super Awesome Balloon Animals 210-883-6434 www.superawesome balloonanimals.com

Invite the amazingballoontwister to your next party. He will entertain and delight your guests. See pictures on website.

BeBop is available for parties, festivals, daycares, corporate events and more.

Fun includes, music, dancing, silly magic, stage shows, simple balloons, glitter tattoos and more! See our website for more information!

Party Favors

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Characters will visit your party or event and interact with kids. Two great packages to choose from. Like us on Facebook: Party Pals SA.

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Specializing in personalizing - embroidery, Gifts and screen printing. From corporate size orders to mom size orders and everyone in between.

PLACES Altitude Trampoline Park Huebner & I-10 210-697-5867 www.altitudeSA.com

New in San Antonio! Safe, clean fun environment for kids of all ages. Three party areas to choose from. We have a foam pit, dodgeball courts, basketball slam, tumble track and lots of fun!

Parties run an hour and 45 minutes.

Open 7 days a week. Call to reserve your party!

Artworks 2 locations Central 210-826-2787 New Location in Leon Springs www.artworksartstudio.com

If your child loves freedom and open-ended art projects, Artworks is the perfect party place. All parties are private with two staff helpers. Have your next party at Artworks where creating is fun and a child can dream, play and Imagine!

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Casino Nights, Carnivals, Fundraisers, Festivals & Company Picnics

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June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

13

PARTY DIRECTORY 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.

Green Tree Tennis Club 681-5261 4721 Callaghan Road www.greentreetennis.com Courtney@greentreetennis.com

Put on your super cape… it’s time for an adventure! Our all-new Super Kids’ Quest Summer Camp is full of exciting, creative missions where kids will exercise their muscles, imaginations and flexible scheduling options allow you to sign your Super Kid up for several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time!

Call or schedule a free introductory class online.

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

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.

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!!

Summer Adventure Camp Day-long or week-long programs for children in Grades 1-2 and 3-5.

Frozen: Stories of the Ice Age July 6-10 and Aug. 3-7

Cool Down, Chill Out!

July 13-17 and July 27-31

Cool, Cool Water: Life by the River July 20-24

For more information and reservations call 210.357.1910.

www.WitteMuseum.org

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

Rampage Birthday Bash 210-444-5554 Sarampage.com

Call now to book your Rampage Birthday bash! Great birthday party package includes tickets, food, T-shirt for birthday child, mention on scoreboard, and gift for party guests. Call or check online for details and cost.

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-It-Yourself 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 stressfree for you.

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!

Whimsy Art Studio 210-460-6610 2211 NW Militaary Hwy., Suite 116 www.whimsyartstudio.com We would love to help you celebrate your birthday! We provide the art supplies and canvas; you provide the food & drink. Just let us know what painting you would like to create. Call or visit our website for more information.

RENTALS & SUPPLIES Dayanni’s Special Events, Catering and Party Rentals 28991 IH10 W #250 Boerme 830-446-9517] Funny Bone 210-490-3866 We rent waterslides and moonbounces with popcorn and snowcone machines.

Call for prices.

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

Super Jump 210-653-2028 www.Super JumpSA.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 machines and more Call for our specials!

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Travel Texas

Going l a t s a o C

Planning a Summer Vacation in Texas Gives Families Plenty of Exciting Options

By Yvonne Vasquez

Trying to plan a summer vacation that will appeal to the entire family is always a challenge. Fortunately, the Texas coast offers plenty of thrilling options to choose from. Here are some of the most appealing prospects for vacationing along the Texas coast.

GALVESTON A visit the Galveston area just would not be complete without a trip to Moody Gardens. In the multi-level Rainforest Pyramid, visitors can walk amid free-roaming birds and animals set against exotic plants and invigorating waterfalls. The stunning Aquarium Pyramid soars 12 stories high and features thousands of marine creatures from the Pacific, Atlantic and Caribbean oceans.

New for Summer 2015 is the wild and wacky SpongeBob SubPants 3-D submarine voyage in the Discovery Pyramid.

Another new attraction, the exciting racetrack-style exhibit, SPEED: Science in Motion in the Discovery Museum that features thrilling hands-on demonstrations. Park visitors will also be able to enjoy animatronic adventure Dinos Alive, which returns to the park this summer.

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Last but not least, adventure enthusiasts will love the challenge of the new Sky Trail Ropes Course, the tallest Steel Ropes Course on the Gulf Coast, or the exhilarating Zip Line course that glides 60-feet high over Moody Gardens.

Amusement park fans seeking a splash of adventure need look no further than Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark where guests of all ages can find a place to have some refreshing fun. The thrills continue at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier where a rollercoaster and other exciting rides soar above the Gulf of Mexico.

History buffs will love to explore the intriguing past of this coastal town. Check out Seawolf Park, Texas Seaport Museum and Pier 21 Theatre to learn more about its history.

Another unique stop in Galveston is the Ocean Shore Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum which gives visitors a fascinating look at the world of offshore drilling. The popular three-story attraction offers a wealth of educational information including several 3-D exhibits that highlight the many phases of oil exploration and production.

CORPUS CHRISTI AND PORT ARANSAS The attractive lure of the Gulf Coast is a familiar one for most Texans. But now there are even more fun-filled reasons to plan a visit there.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Upper Padre is the fourth and newest addition to this famous waterpark family. When it opens in summer 2015, the park will have the longest inter-connected river system in the park’s history. Already open for business on Padre Island in Corpus Christi is the Schlitterbahn Beach Country Club which features a nine-hole course, tennis courts and heated pool plus Schlitterbahn’s Veranda Restaurant and Bar. One of the most popular destinations in Corpus Christi is the Texas State Aquarium. In 2014, the Aquarium June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

15

introduced Nearshore Experience, a completely renovated indoor exhibit that depicts life at the shoreline, and allows visitors to stroll directly beneath shorebirds, like the roseate spoonbill and white ibis. Dolphin Bay and Dolphin Bay Underwater Room offer close-up experiences with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

The chance to touch and hand-feed stingrays is what still draws so many visitors to the ever-amazing Stingray Lagoon.

Eagle Pass and the Hawn Wild Flight Theater both feature trained birds and small mammals that provide plenty of entertainment while promoting conservation. Kids can dig for fossils at Owen’s Paleo Park or enjoy interactive water play at HEB’s Splash Park.

The underwater habitat formed around an oil platform is the focus of Islands of Steel, the largest indoor exhibit at the Aquarium. Sharks, moray eels, groupers and barracudas are just a few of the many fascinating marine animals that can be viewed here.

On the horizon is the final phase of Campaign Caribbean, an exciting new exhibit which will double the size of the Aquarium when it is completed in 2017. The greatest expansion in the Aquarium’s 24-year history will showcase a brilliant array of plants and wildlife of the Western Caribbean. When completed, it will make the Texas Aquarium one of the top aquariums in the nation.

History springs to life when visitors come aboard the

PHOTO CREDIT: TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM

USS Lexington WWII naval aircraft carrier and museum. In addition to touring the eleven decks on this enthralling ship, the Virtual Battle Stations and Flight Simulators are not to be missed.

Yet another coastal treasure is the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center which boasts a Butterfly House, orchid, rose and hummingbird gardens. Exotic parrots and reptiles add a special charm to this beautiful garden paradise.

Opportunities abound for outdoor enthusiasts in Port Aransas and surrounding areas. Adventure-seekers will be drawn to sailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding and parasailing.

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

And, fortunately, more relaxing sports can also be enjoyed in this area including fishing, kayaking and birdwatching.

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND With 34 miles of attractive beaches next to sparkling blue water, it’s easy to see why South Padre Island is an ideal family vacation destination. The area is named after a Spanish priest named Padre Nicolas Balli who settled the area in 1804. He established a church and intended to bring Christianity to the native Karankawa Indians. Prior to this, the island was mostly used for ranching. The tourism industry was developed in the early 1920s and since then, the charm of the Island has only grown.

Each year, thousands of nature-lovers look forward to visiting Sea Turtle Inc. This world-renowned facility is dedicated to the rehabilitation and rescue of sea turtles. Many releases are scheduled during the summer months, giving visitors plenty of chances to watch baby sea turtles find their way back to the ocean.

New to South Padre Island is the recently opened Schlitterbahn Beach Resort, an indoor/outdoor water park with seven thrilling attractions and spectacular views. This 221-room beachfront resort is hard to beat when it comes to location. Excellent dining options combined with convenient access to popular beach activities makes this resort a great destination for families who prefer round-the-clock fun in the sun.

When it comes to enjoyment, it’s difficult to find a water activity that is not available on this island paradise.

Kiteboarding, parasailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing and water bikes are among the recreational options from which beachgoers can choose. Other pursuits suitable for families are dolphin watch tours, deep sea fishing, surfing, horseback riding, sand castle lessons, snorkeling, skydiving, flyboarding and amphibious tours.

Planning a memorable summer vacation can be a challenging task. But fortunately, Texas has a lot of options for the average family to create many memories under the sun.

Yvonne Vasquez is a San Antonio based freelance writer.

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June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

17

baby

l skills Developing socia ids for our littlest k That first big smile can be a baby’s early way of socializing with mom or dad. Even before the first hesitant steps or attempts at saying words, infants become social creatures through their interactions with objects, people and places.

Today’s parents can find dozens of ways inside and outside the home to encourage the socialization process, which researchers say provides the foundation for significant childhood development benefits.

Internet search engines make it easy to obtain quick access to learning tools and the latest baby education research findings. Dozens of programs from Baby Time at the local library to area baby swimming and music classes promote socialization skills for our littlest kids.

In San Antonio, Love to Swim School and Aqua-Tots Swim School offer baby splash and swimming classes.

Treehouse Music Together offers area classes involving songs and instruments for students as young as 4 months old. The Little Gym’s area classes teach exercise and early socializing skills to infants, too.

Avance-San Antonio, the award-winning nonprofit parent-child education program, has been focusing on baby socialization for 42 years. “Research shows that 60 percent of what a child is going to learn is going to happen during those first four years of life. We start at the very beginning,” says Yesenia Gonzalez, director of parenting programs at Avance.

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

Photo Credit: Primrose School of Stone Oak

By Renee Haines

“For us, it’s important to have the parents understand that they’re the first and most important teacher,” Gonzalez says.

“It’s important to hold your baby and have that eye-to-eye contact. Those bonding moments are forever.”

Gonzalez says research shows that babies respond with distressed expressions or wide smiles to a caregiver’s frown or smiling and cooing. They also respond to the physical presence of books, toys and other infants in a room. “Babies love to interact,” she says.

Programs for parents and infants and toddlers under the age of 3 offer classes where they socialize with each other while learning communications and early childhood development skills.

Parents are encouraged to bond with their babies through touch, talk and facial expression.

Mirrors are placed low on walls at Avance’s child development center. “As they start crawling, babies see their image and are eager to get close to the mirror. This is where mom and dad come together to encourage baby to do that,” Gonzalez says.

Inside Baby Classrooms At Primrose School of Stone Oak in San Antonio, infant classes encourage “social-emotional development” by responding to infants’ needs and initiating playful FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

interactions. Teaching infants and caretakers baby sign language allows babies who cannot yet verbalize a way to communicate their needs.

“Many people underestimate the capacity of how much they understand, even though they can’t use words,” says owner Evelyn Montalvan. “It’s amazing to see a 9-month-old sitting on a mat asking for milk.”

Because infants learn and respond differently from birth to age 1, they transition to different baby classrooms as they advance. The common denominator for all children is playtime, she adds. “Play is a big part in how children learn,” she says.

Because private Primrose Schools for infants and preschoolers operate around the country, Montalvan can tap the latest studies and findings on child development through the national office’s research department.

Parents, too, have more access than in the past as child socialization studies are often published on the Internet.

However, increased access to laptops, e-readers and smart phones does not supplant old-fashioned teaching tools.

Montalvan said one father who was asked to bring his children’s favorite books to a book fair responded that he didn’t have any at home. Their books were on e-readers.

Infants need physical contact with books, she explained to him. “Infants learn through all their senses. It’s normal for an infant to mouth everything, even the books we provide them,” she says.

The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages access

to television screens, computers, smart phones, tablets and other electronic devices for children under 2.

Research has shown no benefits from screen time. Yet, one survey of nearly 400 parents presented to the Pediatric Academic Societies in April found that more than one-third of babies from the age of 6 months are playing with smart phones and tablets. By age 1, one in seven are using devices for at least an hour a day. By 2, most children were using mobile devices, the researchers learned.

An easy way to unplug your baby is to take him outside, where studies show that interactions with nature can benefit the social, emotional and intellectual development of children of all ages, according to the national Children & Nature Network.

Socializing Outdoors Baby strollers are a common sight along woodland trails and gardens at the nonprofit Cibolo Nature Center & Farm in Boerne, which is open to the public from dawn to dusk each day.

“It’s extraordinary to watch their smiles and tiny hands reaching up in wonder at discovering the sounds and sights of nature,” Carolyn Chipman Evans, executive director of the 160-acre grounds, says about the center’s youngest visitors.

“Socializing with nature is such a healthy way for children of all ages to actively engage their senses,” says Chipman Evans. “Dozens of research studies have measured the significant social development and intellectual benefits that

Country Home Learning Center An Exceptional Child Care Program

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Fully Accredited by AdvancED, a worldwide organization "Advancing Excellence in Education"

210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

19

come with connecting to outdoor settings from the earliest age.”

Yet, research also shows that too few children are exposed to nature centers, public parks and other outdoor venues because of distance and time constraints – a situation often described as “nature deficit disorder.”

Chipman Evans says the nonprofit Boerne nature center has become a popular destination for urban San Antonio families looking for nearby wild places to bring babies and older children. The center has Little Explorers classes each Tuesday for preschool-age kids and summer nature camps for kids 5-12.

At the Library Free Baby Time classes are offered to parents and infants each week at several San Antonio Public Library branches.

“It’s a way for moms and babies to socialize with each other and with the library,” says Viki Ash, coordinator of children’s services at the San Antonio Public Library.

“We’re very interested in early literacy development and vocabulary. Listening to the human voice is important to brain development,” Ash says.

For example, parents can clap their hands to rhymes that are read aloud for infants, who also are encouraged to touch sturdy baby board books. “We buy board books and replace them with amazing regularity. They’re for babies to explore,” she says.

Recommended read-aloud e-books and hardcover

PHOTO CREDIT: CIBOLO NATURE CENTER & FARM

editions for toddlers and older kids are available for infants of library members, too. “Parents can say, look, he’s only 1 and he’s in the reading club,” Ash says. “We’re not trying to turn every baby into Baby Einstein. It’s very light-hearted.”

Membership, of course, is free at the local library, and so is the app to download e-books free to library cardholders.

“When you’re going on a trip, it’s nice to know that we have kiosks at the airport where you can download books,” she adds.

Reading aloud to a baby is more than about developing specific skills. “It’s a wonderful bonding experience,” Ash says. “It’s a very loving way to spend time with a child.”

Renee Haines is a San Antonio freelance writer.

Apparel for Dance & Gymnastics Bodywear & Shoes for Children thru Adults

Dorothy’s Dance Shop 3 Locations: 1532 Austin Hwy.

829-8454

11255 Huebner Rd. #107

558-4200

434 N Loop 1604 W, #1102

545-4700

See our store specials online at

www.dorothysdanceshop.net 20

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

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Shoot for the stars, reach for the moon, the sky is the limit….

Like us on:

Sandy says...

“Here are some fun activities families can do to learn about our body’s senses this summer!”

Take a walk in your neighborhood. What do you see up in the trees? What do you see in the sky? What do you see beside the sidewalk?

Summer time is a great time to try seasonal fruits. Pineapple, coconut, mango, star fruit, papaya, guava, watermelon, and kiwi. Ask questions: Does this fruit smell sweet or sour? Would this fruit be tart or bitter?

Make home made popsicles. You will need: small plastic cups, assorted flavors of juice, popsicle sticks or plastic spoons, freezer. Pour juice into cup (about ¾ full).

Freeze for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture begins to set; then insert popsicle sticks or spoons. Freeze until very hard. Talk about the flavor and taste.

When you are outside and you close your eyes and use your ears you may hear…. a dog barking, lawn mowers, birds singing, a wind chime, a car horn, laughter at the pool, cicadas buzzing, neighbor parents calling for their children, owls at night, and the ice cream truck.

What can you do in a sandbox? Dig, scoop, shovel, dump, strain, carry, build castles, and write letters. Children will work on their fine motor skills and use their muscles. Hands and arms need to coordinate with what brains want to do.

Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy Home Health and Clinic Settings

344-KIDS (5437) 10609 IH-10 West Ste. 105 SATX 78230

www.abilitypediatrictherapy.com

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June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

21

calendar

OF EVENTS /

JUNE

June 6 & 7 / DoSeum Grand Opening: Make plans to attend the grand opening weekend of the city’s groundbreaking new premier children’s interactive museum, The DoSeum. Opening day festivities on Sat. include a free outdoor celebration featuring music, dance and theater performances, food trucks and a variety of educational activities. Advance tickets will be required to enter The DoSeum on opening weekend. To help make inaugural visits as easy and enjoyable as possible timed tickets will be provided, allowing visitors the opportunity to enter The DoSeum on the date and time of their choice. Visitors should arrive 15 minutes prior to their admission time to ensure entry and maximum fun. All kids and adults ages 1 and up require a ticket for admission. $5 per person on Sat./$10 per person on Sun./children under age 1 year allowed in free. Sat. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sun. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 210-212-4453.

The DoSeum, 2800 Broadway St. www.thedoseum.org/ grandopeningtickets

June 13 & 14 / 44th Annual Texas Folklife Festival: 4th Annual Texas Folklife Festival: This year’s festival theme is “Get Your Texas On!” Over 250 organizations take part in the event, representing some 40 cultures and serving more than 150 culinary delights. Along with food, the festival presents a wide variety of craft demonstrations, educational activities, and fun for the whole family. There will be live entertainment on six stages, including Ballet Folklorico, Lebanese, Ukrainian, Hawaiian and Native American dancers; plus Country, Bluegrass, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tango and more music. More than 50 artisan-vendors and up-close opportunities to see craft demonstrators showing off their skills: basket makers, weavers, bread bakers, wood carvers, blacksmiths and historical re-enactors. Sat. from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m./ Sun. from noon to 7 p.m. Adult tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the gate. Children’s tickets (ages 6-12) are $5 and kids 5 and under are allowed in free. UTSA HemisFair Park Campus, 801 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. 210-458-2300. www.

TexasFolklifeFestival.org

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

What’s Inside

Looking for a great place to eat that is fun for the entire family? below is a list of restaurants that offer Kids Eat Free.

30 Ongoing Exhibits 32 Family Theater 36 Free Fun in SA

1 Monday

Little Zootennial Buddies: Take your smallest animal lover for a zoo class to meet an animal friend, sing animal songs, read books about animals and make new friends. Attending all six classes is strongly recommended. Program for ages 16-23 months is from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Program for ages 6-15 months is from 11 to 11:45 a.m. Cost per person is $7 for members and $17 for nonmembers. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210734-7184. www.sazoo.org Helotes Ballet Folklorico Classes: Ballet/folklorico dance instruction for area children at 5:30 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month.

Children and parents should report to the HPD Building, where they will be escorted to the training room for classes.

Free. Helotes Police Dept., 12951 Bandera Road. 210416-1498. www.helotes-tx.gov

2 Tuesday

Movies by Moonlight: Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an outdoor screening of “Big Hero 6”.

Free plus free parking after 5 p.m. at city-operated parking garages, lots & meters.

Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. Showtime is 8:30 p.m. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. www.travisparksa.com Little Explorers: Preschoolers and their caregivers can use their five senses for fun and adventure as they discover nature through stories, crafts, games, songs and outdoor exploration. The third Tuesday of each month will feature special guest Mother Nature for story time. $5 per family.

10 to 11 a.m. Cibolo Nature

Center & Farm, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830-249-4616. www.cibolo.org

3 Wednesday

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. www.sazoo.org Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: Kids ages 5-14 can join the Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir for fun, interactive group singing and pop choreography. No prior experience required. Free summer enrollment for June through August. Meets Sundays from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at 21803 Encino Commons; Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. at 21303 Encino Commons; and Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. at 114 North Ellison Dr. 210-497-4888 www.studio88music.com 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. www.samuseum.org Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other

Rome’s Pizza

EVERYDAY

Kids eat free 4pm - 8pm with

Acadiana Cafe

every adult entree purchase

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

3 Locations - see website www.romespizza.com

WEDNESDAY

MONDAY

Luby’s

Buffalo Wings & Rings

Kids eat free after 4 pm with every adult entree purchase*

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 203 North Loop 1604 www.buffalowingsandrings.com

Babes Old Fashion Burgers

All Locations *Excludes 5307 Walzem Road, San Antonio 78218 www.lubys.com

Romes Pizza

Mon - Thurs from 4pm - 7pm kids 9 and under eat free with every adult entree purchase 3 Locations - see website www.babeshamburgers.com

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

THURSDAY The Black-eyed Pea

Earl Abel’s Mon - Thurs from 5pm - 8pm kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 1201 Austin Hwy #175 www.earlabelssa.com

TUESDAY

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase.

SATURDAY Luby’s Kids eat free 11-close with adult purchase*

Hurricane Grill & Wings

All Locations *Excludes 5307 Walzem

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase.

2611 SE Military Dr #108 www.hurricanewings.com

Road, San Antonio 78218 www.lubys.com

The Black-eyed Pea Kids eat free after 5pm with every adult entree purchase 7959 Fredericksburg Rd., #103 www.theblackeyedpea.com

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

SUNDAY ztejas

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

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 15900 La Cantera Pkwy #25100 www.ztejas.com

June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

23

Public Pools Set to Open June 13

San Antonio’s outdoor public pools will open June 13 for the summer swim season. You and your family are invited to stay cool and fit this summer by visiting the department’s many outdoor pools. Admission is free. Hours at most pools are 1 to 7 p.m. with the exception of five pools that are open from 2 to 8 p.m. For more information, call 210-207-3299 or got to www. sanantonio.gov/Parksandrec/swimming.aspx. The pools will remain open through August 16.

Vote for Children’s Hospital of San Antonio to win a $30,000 donation from White Cloud

White Cloud has announced that the Children’s Hospital of San Antonio is a part of its national Real Comfort, Real Kids video contest with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. White Cloud, a paper products company, asked entrants to submit a one-minute video answering the question “How would you bring more comfort to kids in your hospital?” Children’s Hospital of San Antonio’s video is one of 14 included in the contest with a chance to win one of three donations. The hospitals with a video voted in the top three will receive a $30,000 donation from White Cloud. The winners will be decided by community vote on White Cloud’s Facebook page and announced in July.

Voting to select the winning hospitals is open through June 30 and community members are invited to go to www.mywhitecloud.com and cast their vote for Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Foundation’s video. Individuals can cast a vote daily throughout the voting period. And, if a valid UPC code from a White Cloud product is entered by a voter, it will count as 10 votes.

CMN Hospitals raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals across the United States and Canada, which, in turn, use the money where it’s needed the most. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all in support of the mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible.

Learn more at www.CMNHospitals.org.

Summer Youth Program Runs June 15 through August 7 Thousands of San Antonio children will enjoy eight weeks of recreationthemed activities, enrichment activities and the opportunity to make new friends at Parks and Recreation Department Community Centers and select school sites this summer. Programs run Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Lunch and a snack are provided. Residents interested in signing up their children may check space availability online at www. sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/summer_programs.aspx. For more information call 210-207-3000.

stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program with the San Antonio Astronomical Association. Sundown to 10 p.m. every Wednesday. Free. Lower Bee Tree soccer field parking lot at McAllister Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road. 210-710-4786. www.sanantonioastronomy.org Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: Hardberger Park’s diversity of flora and fauna is being threatened by exotic invasive weeds and volunteers are needed to combat these weeds each Wednesday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. E-mail wendy.leonard@sanantonio.gov or call 210-207-3292 for directions to week’s location. Phil Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Road (East Side). 210-2073106. www.philhardbergerpark.org

5 Friday

Fiesta Noche del Rio: Since 1957, Fiesta Noche del Rio patrons have lined the banks of the San Antonio River at the Arneson River Theatre in historic La Villita to savor the summer outdoor spectacular featuring San Antonio artists performing the music, song and dance of Mexico, Spain, Argentina and Texas. Tickets are $20 for adults/$15 for seniors/$8 for children ages 6-14. 8:30 p.m.

Arneson River Theatre at La Villita. 210- 2264651. www.fiestanochesa.com Chips, Salsa & Guitars: The 13th Annual Summer Art & Jazz Festival is a three-day event featuring an outstanding lineup of local and nationally known jazz artists, an arts & crafts fair and delicious local foods.

Free. Fri. from 5 to 10 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. from noon to 10 p.m. Crockett Park, 1300 North Main Ave. and Cypress St. 210-772-2900. www.sanantoniosummerartjazzfestival.com 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. 210826-6411. www.thetwig.indiebound.com Art Stroll at the McNay: Take your infant or toddler out for the morning to enjoy a themed tour of the museum collection and a related sensory playtime for little ones 18 months and younger. Diapers, blankies and yoga pants are welcome. Free for members and $10 for nonmembers. Children 12 months and under should arrive at 10 a.m. to tour and play from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Children 12 months and older should arrive at 11 a.m. to tour and play from 11:15 a.m. to noon. Register online or call 210-8051768. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-805-1768. www.mcnayart.ticketleap.com

6 Saturday

DoSeum Grand Opening: see pg 22 Pooch Parade: Bring your dog on a leash

24

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

out for a morning filled with dog-related presentations and a parade of dogs in costume. Walk with your dog on the trails with the San Antonio Big Dawgs Association at 9:30am. Pooch Parade starts at 10:15 a.m. Prizes will be awarded for the most unique, cutest and best costumed dogs. Free, donations accepted. 9 to 11 a.m. All activities will take place in the open field behind the playground.

Phil Hardberger Park, 8400 NW Military Hwy (West Side). 210-207-3280. www. philhardbergerpark.org Outdoor Movie at Mission Marquee Plaza: The community is invited to experience the magic and nostalgia of one of San Antonio’s historic gems as the Mission Marquee Plaza will be the setting for an outdoor screening of “Annie”. Food trucks and concessionaires will be on hand and attendees are also welcome to bring your own snacks, lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Free. 8:15 to 10:15 p.m. Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210-207-6968. www. facebook.com/MissionMarqueePlaza “Visits To The Past” Alamo Plaza Heritage Interpretation: San Antonio Living History Association (SALHA) hosts free monthly programs in Alamo Plaza to engage visitors in conversations about early San Antonio as they “step back” in time. These “Visits” feature the

On Saturday, June 6, the entire family can enjoy a “Visit To The Past” as you step back in time with the San Antonio Living History Association’s free monthly event at The Alamo. SALHA ’s historical demonstrations and exhibit tables will be featured from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

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sights, sounds, skills, clothing, foods and lifestyles of early San Antonio and interpret details of Alamo Plaza history. SALHA historical demonstrations and exhibit tables are setup under the trees in Alamo Plaza, a great venue for visitors to relax, stay a while, and find out about the most “hallowed ground” in Texas.

Free. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza. 210-225-1391. www.salha. org World Oceans Day: Celebrate World Oceans Day by bringing the family out to theme day at the SA Zoo. Activities will be held throughout the Zoo that develop awareness and encourage the protection of our oceans and their inhabitants. This event is free with zoo admission. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org Moondance Concerts at the CNC: Concert under the oaks and stars at the Cibolo Nature Center featuring Ruben V. Bring chairs, blankets, and picnics to this fun and casual event! A food truck will also be on-site for the event. 7 to 10 p.m.

Members $7.50/ Non-members $10/ Seniors 65+ $5/ Kids 12 and under free.

Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830-249-4616. www.cibolo.org SA Family Pride Fair: Celebrate LGBTQ

Pride Month at the inaugural SA Family Pride Fair, hosted by Historic Market Square. Everyone is invited to bring their families to learn in a relaxed and festive atmosphere, about Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender programs and services available in the community.

This first-of-its-kind event will include food booths, musical performances, give-aways and other family-friendly activities. Free. . Historic Market Square, 514 W. Commerce. events.getcreativesanantonio.com/event/detail/441916944/ SA_Family_Pride_Fair Peter Max - A Retrospective - 1960-2015: A never-before-seen collection by artist legend, Peter Max’s exquisite paintings will be on exhibition and available for acquisition in a presentation at North Star Mall. Peter Max will make two very special appearances on Saturday & Sunday at the gallery in the mall, and all appearances are complimentary and open to the public with RSVP’s required at rsvp@roadshowcompany.com. The two scheduled “Meet the Artist” receptions are from 6 to 9 p.m. on Sat. and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sun. North Star Mall, 7400 San Pedro Ave. 844-377-3300. www. roadshowcompany.com Zootennial Celebration Series: Wild Beginnings and Zoo Explorers offer an

educational program series encouraging child and caregiver interactions for children ages 3-5 with stories, songs and animal close-ups. Fri. & Sat. from 10 to 11 a.m.; Wed. from 6 to 7 p.m. June 6, 13, 17 & 20. $7 for members/$17 for nonmembers. Register online. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org Primer Sabado: On the first Saturday of each month, this event features the best local entertainment, children’s activities and food offered by the city. The Market Square shops and restaurants will all be open for an afternoon of browsing and snacking. Free. Noon to 6 p.m. San Antonio’s Historic Market Square. 210207-8600. www.events.getcreativesanantonio.com Valerie Simpson at The Carver: Known for her partnership with Nikolas Ashford in one of the most celebrated songwriting duos of all time, “Ashford and Simpson”, Valerie Simpson has remained an iconic singer and songwriter beside Ashford since the mid-1960s. Writing and composing well-known songs such as Whitney Houston’s “I’m Every Woman,” Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t nothing like the real thing”, and “Ain’t no Mountain high enough”, sung by Dianna Ross. Ashford and Simpson are most known for their

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

duet “Solid as a Rock,” which reached the top of International music charts in 1984. $35-$45. 8 p.m. Jo Long Theatre, Carver Cultural Community Center, 226 N. Hackberry. 210-207-7211. www. thecarver.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 one-of-akind pieces are on display. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 210-695-5964. www.helotes-tx.gov/ marketplace 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. 210978-8183. www.samuseum.org Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5 Chips, Salsa & Guitars: see June 5

7 Sunday

DoSeum Grand Opening: see lead-off pg 22 First Sundays for FamiliesKeepin’ It Real: Share the first Sunday of each month with the family and explore the American Realism of Jamie Wyeth’s landscape paintings, portraits, and works on paper.

Paint en plein air, participate in a family-friendly drawing workshop, and paint a portrait of your favorite pet. Noon to 4 p.m. Free with admission. San Antonio Museum of Art, Great Hall, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210978-8100. www.samuseum.org Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 Chips, Salsa & Guitars: see June 5 Peter Max - A Retrospective 1960-2015: see June 6

9 Tuesday

Movies by Moonlight: Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an outdoor screening of “Finding Nemo”.

Valerie Simpson, of Ashford and Simpson, will perform solo at The Carver’s Jo Long Theatre on Saturday, June 6. The show starts at 8 p.m.

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27

11 Thursday

Homeschool Student Workshop Jamie Wyeth: Designed specifically for homeschool students and their parents.

Participate as a family in a guided experience of the museum’s encyclopedic collection with a tour and hands-on activity, and extend learning through art at home with materials provided by the museum.

Advance registration required. Free with museum admission. 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3:30 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8174. www.samuseum.org 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. www.samuseum.org

12 Friday

SA Family Nature Club Camp Out: Join other families to explore nature with an education staff guide from the San Antonio Zoo and camp out at Helton Nature Park in Floresville. Partnering with the San Antonio River Authority on this camp out, the zoo welcomes all families to join the fun! Tents are provided.

Register online. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Helton Nature Park, FM 775, Floresville.

210-734-7184 ext. 1502. www.sazoo.org

Legendary illustrator and graphic artist Peter Max will present a never-before-seen collection of paintings early this month at North Star Mall. The painter himself will be on hand June 6 & 7 to meet the public. RSVP required. For more information, go to www.roadshowcompany.com.

Free plus free parking after 5 p.m. at cityoperated parking garages, lots & meters.

Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m.

Showtime is 8:30 p.m. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. www.travisparksa.com Abendkonzert: The Boerne Village Band is the longest continuously playing German Band in the world outside of Germany. Come early to grab a spot at the Plaza, to hear the ooom pah pah of favorite tunes and watch the kids do the chicken dance. Concert-goers should bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

Free. 7:30 p.m. Boerne Main Plaza, 100 N. Main, Boerne. 830-249-9511 ext. 5. www.boernevillageband.org Art Fit at SAMA: Runners of all levels can come to the museum on the second Tuesday of each month for a leisurely run or walk and a tour of the museum.

28

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

Enjoy a 5-10 minute talk on fitness, a yoga stretch and a run or walk with professional coaches and runners from Run Wild Sports. Free: runners also get free admission to the museum. 6 to 7 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. www.samuseum.org Little Explorers: see June 2

10 Wednesday

SAMA Playdates: see June 3 Astronomy in the Park: see June 3 Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see June 3 Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3

Movie Nights in the Heights: Outdoor movie screening of “Big Hero 6” in Alamo Heights. Bring coolers full of snacks, chairs and blankets. Free. Movie starts at 8:30 p.m., but get there early for the best seats. 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Next to the Nature Trails parking lot off Viesca Street, Alamo Heights. 210-822-3331. www.alamoheightstx.gov/calendar Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see June 5 Art Stroll at the McNay: see June 5 Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5

13 Saturday

44th Annual Texas Folklife Festival: see page 22 Kids Club - Fishing: Do you know how to fish, or want to learn? Come down to the Cibolo Creek to do some fishing with the CNC. Bring your own gear, or they will provide it for you! $5 per family. 10 to 11 a.m. No drop-offs allowed. Herff Farm, 33 Herff Rd., Boerne. 830-249-4616. www.cibolo.org

Fit Pass 2015 Launch - Super Sports Fanatic 5K: The third installment of the Fit Pass 2015 citywide fitness and wellness adventure kicks-off with a Super Sports Fanatic themed 5K race. The 5K is open to competitive racers, as well as non-competitive walkers and joggers of all ages. Race festivities include free Fitness in the Park classes, sports activities, health and wellness vendors, prize giveaways, and a sports fanatic themed costume contest. Show your support for your favorite team or even dress up like your favorite athlete. The first 1,000 people to register online receive a free super sports fanatic t-shirt. Check-in begins at 7:45 a.m. Event runs from 9 a.m. to noon. The LBJ swimming pool will open at 10 a.m. and attendees are encouraged to bring their swimsuits and take part in a variety of fun, fitness related activities in the pool following the run. Lady Bird Johnson Park, 10700 Nacogdoches Rd. 210-207-3000.

Register online at www.carreraraces. com/fitpass5K Water Quality of the Medina River: Minna Paul, San Antonio River Authority (SARA) Education Coordinator, will present information about ways to determine the water quality of the Medina River. This program is recommended for families with children 7 years old and

older. Kid friendly activity included. A donation of $3.00 per individual or $5.00 per family is suggested. 9 to 11 a.m. Medina River Natural Area, 15890 Highway 16 South. 210-207-3106. www. sanaturalareas.org 14th Annual Flag Day 5K Race& 1K Kids’ Fun Run: This 5k is open to competitive runners as well as joggers and walkers with proceeds going to benefit Boy Scouts of America, Alamo Area Council.

Participants will receive a t-shirt and have a chance to win awards and prizes. $30 online pre-registration fee Bring your dog on a leash out to Phil Hardberger or $35 on race day. The 1k Park for a morning filled with dog-related Kids’ Fun Run is free and open presentations and a Pooch Parade of dogs in to children ages 6 and under. costume on Saturday, June 6. The event begins at 9 Online registration encoura.m. the Pooch Parade starts at 10:15 a.m. aged. Race day registration is from 7 to 7:45 a.m. and the race starts at 8 a.m. McGimsey Scout Park, 10810 Wedgewood Alamo Heights on the second Saturday Dr. www.alamoareabsa.org/Event. of each month. Nonmembers are welaspx?id=2603. 210-385-8248. come and binoculars with instructions can be provided. Free. 8 a.m. 246 Viesca, Beginners’ Bird Walk: Meet the San Alamo Heights. 210-308-6788. saauduAntonio Audubon Society (SAAS) trip bon.org leader at the Judson Nature Trail in

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Ongoing Exhibits McNay Art Museum

Merida’s Mexico features three complete print portfolios

by Carlos Mérida (1891- 1984) from the McNay’s collection.

Though born in Guatemala, Carlos Mérida would live most of his life and career in Mexico where he, like so many other modernists working there, would celebrate and document indigenous cultures and traditions through his art. Particularly close to his heart was the pre-Columbian Mayan text called the Popol Vuh. Variously translated as “Book of the People” or “Book of the Community,” the document is a rare survivor of the Spanish conquest that puts forth a creation story for the K’iche or Quiché people of western Guatemala who were Merida’s ancestors. His color lithograph suite, Estampas del Popol Vuh (1943) is his visual interpretation of the texts of this important document. Also close to his heart was dance. Mérida had a great interest in the traditional dances of Mexico and had co-founded the dance school of the Secretariat of Education to teach and thereby preserve them. Dances of Mexico (1939) is a visual document of the same traditional dances. Perhaps the most joyous of the three portfolios is Carnival in Mexico (1940) which celebrates the commingling of indigenous cultures and traditions with Catholicism during pre-Lenten festivals throughout the republic of Mexico.

The portfolio Dances of Mexico is a recent acquisition so this is the first time that these three complete portfolios, consisting of ten color lithographs each, will be installed together.

Exhibit runs June 3 through September 6.

Recycled, Repurposed, Reborn - is organized as a collaboration between the McNay’s four curators and focuses on collages on paper, panel, and canvas, as well as wall-hung and free-standing assemblage sculptures and hybrids of the collage and assemblage aesthetic. The two- and three-dimensional works draw from all parts of the museum’s extensive collection. Exhibit runs June 10 through August 17.

Viva Zapata! Zapata has been a favorite subject of Mexican artists since the days of the Mexican Revolution. Every artist has a different take on just who this controversial person was, from Diego Rivera’s heroic depiction of the revolutionary standing next to his white steed, to Siqueiros’s nearly comic portrait, and to Orozco’s damnation of the mindlessness of the whole Zapata movement. Drawn entirely from the McNay’s highly important collection of Mexican modernist prints, this exhibition is part history lesson and part survey of this aspect of the McNay collection. Exhibit runs May 20 through August 16.

Voices of Suffering is drawn from the McNay’s renowned print collection and brings together a selection of rarely-seen prints by Käthe Kollwitz and Jose Clemente Orozco. Personal experiences associated with the emerging workers’ movement, Mexican Revolution, and World War I influenced their political sympathies, prompting Kollwitz’s deep empathy for her subjects but Orozco’s increasing cynicism about the course of history. Both artists skillfully manipulated the black-and-white medium to evoke intense emotional undercurrents of human suffering, unspeakable grief, and strength of will. The hardship and despair endured by downtrodden working-class women is a recurring theme throughout the haunting works on display.

Exhibit runs through August 16.

Admission: $10 for adults (12-64); $5 for seniors (65+), students

30

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

Catch the Discover the Ice Age exhibit at the Witte from now through Sept. 7 and learn about a world covered in ice and the creatures that thrived in it. with I.D. (13+), and active duty military; and free for children ages 12 and younger and to all museum members. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed New Year’s Day, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels. 210824-5368. www.mcnayart.org

San Antonio Botanical Garden One Way Trail is a new Art in the Garden exhibit featuring Kim Beck. The project, “One Way Trail,” consists of a series of routes and views throughout the Garden. Each tour is led using signage, printed maps and audio. Garden visitors will find themselves led by unexpected guides, such as a rancher, a poet, an arborist, a child, a dog, and a Buddhist priest.

Rainforest Adventure is a maze exhibit that takes guests inside the rainforest, from the soaring canopies all the way to the forest floor with lessons on ecology, biodiversity, adaptability, and conservation. Exhibit runs through September 20.

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

St. Thomas Episcopal School

Institute of Texan Cultures

Patriots & Peacemakers, a traveling exhibit from the Arab American National Museum, details how Arab Americans – Christian, Muslim and those of other faiths – have served the United States through the Armed Forces, Diplomatic Corps and Peace Corps. The exhibit tells stories of heroism and self-sacrifice that affirm the important role Arab Americans have played in our country throughout its history from the American Revolution to the present. More than 170 stories of Arab Americans are presented. Exhibit runs through June 14.

Sikhs: Legacy of the Punjab is a unique, traveling exhibit developed by the Smithsonian Institution and sponsored by the Sikh Heritage Foundation. Sikhs, a unique culture and religion, originate in the Punjab region of India, straddling the India-Pakistan border. Male Sikhs are easily recognized by their turbans and untrimmed beards.

The community and its leaders have been working with the museum to continue educating about their culture, which has experienced discrimination and suspicion in a post-9/11 society. In San Antonio, the Sikh community has grown to nearly 300 families. The exhibit features a collection of traditional Sikh art, information on the culture’s history and beliefs, artifacts such as ceremonial weapons and armor, and a model of the Golden Temple, one of the sacred sites of the Sikh religion. Exhibit runs through Oct. 18.

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

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The Magik Theatre’s Camp Showbiz

Take flight!

The Witte

Discover the Ice Age - A blockbuster exhibition where visitors travel back in time to experience a world covered in ice and occupied by a giant wooly mammoth, saber-toothed cat, a gigantic “terror bird”, dire wolf, cave people and more. Experience firsthand what life was like 2.5 million years ago with life-sized animatronic models of animals with scientifically accurate movements, coloration, sounds and fur. See a full sized adult mammoth skeleton, wooly mammoth fur, fossils and casts. Learn about the cave people, including Neanderthals and Cro Magnons, the Tar Pits, the death traps of the Ice Age creatures, the Megafaunal Extinction and much more. Explore the unique galleries and learn about new discoveries, how human adaption may have impacted Ice Age creatures and if the Ice Age will return.

Now through August 21 Ages 3 through 17 Focusing on fun, learning, and creativity, Camp Showbiz offers age-targeted theatre classes in a day-camp structure of 1-, 2- and 4-week sessions.

Extended-care options are also available.

Now 2 locations!

Exhibition runs through September 7.

Downtown | The Magik Theatre 420 S. Alamo 78205 | 210.227.2751

Admission is $4 for members and $5 for non-members.

Admission: $10 for adults (12-64); $9 for seniors (65+) and active duty military; $7 for children (4-11); and free for children ages 3 and younger and to all museum members. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tuesday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1900. www.wittemuseum.org

®

Northwest | Magik Performing Arts Center 5359 Casa Bella 78249 | 210.375.5458

Register at www.magiktheatre.org

Coming June 24 at The Magik Theatre Mercy Watson to the Rescue!

Based on the books by Kate DiCamillo Reservations required | www.magiktheatre.org | 210.227.2751

BG 5/15

June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

31

Family Theatre

The entire family can enjoy CHUGGINGTON LIVE! The Great Rescue Adventure at the Tobin Center on June 12 at 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $19.50.

Magic Tree House: A Night in Old New Orleans- On the eve of All Saints Day, beloved Magic Tree House characters Jack and Annie must find a young Louis Armstrong and put him on the path to becoming the king of jazz. Based on A Good Night for Ghosts, Book No. 42 in the popular Magic Tree House series, this musical introduces young audiences to the magic of music and the joy of jazz! $10 admission; children under 2 free.

Show times vary by date. Runs through June 6. Magik Theatre, 420 South Alamo. 210-227-2751. www.magiktheatre.org

Magik Theatre, 420 South Alamo. 210-227-2751. www.magiktheatre.org

CHUGGINGTON LIVE! The Great Rescue Adventure- The trainees are on their first day of Advanced Training and are eager to impress their mentors by mastering new roles that test their courage, speed, and determination. When Koko finds herself in trouble at Rocky Ridge Mine, it’s up to her friends to help her.

Do the trainees have what it takes to put their newly learnt skills into practice? Can Wilson come to Koko’s rescue and fulfill his dream of becoming a hero in Chug Patrol? $19.50-$49.50. June 12. 7 p.m. The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-223-8624. www.tobincenter.org

Mary Poppins-Things are not going well for the Banks family, the children, Jane and Michael, are out of control and are in need of a new nanny. Jane and Michael have their own ideas about what sort of caretaker they should have, while their parents are insistent on someone strict for the job. When a mysterious young woman named Mary Poppins appears at their doorstep, the family finds that she’s the answer to their prayers, but in the most peculiar way. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones she has a profound effect upon. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises: “anything can happen if you let it.

Featuring all the classic songs plus some catchy new tunes. $17$26. Every Fri and Sat at 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 3 p.m. (except July 5). Runs June 26 through July 26. Woodlawn Theatre, 1920 Fredericksburg Rd. 210-267-8388. www.woodlawntheatre.org/marypoppins

Mercy Watson to the Rescue!- Mr. and Mrs. Watson have a pig named Mercy. Mercy enjoys driving cars, going trick-ortreating, and a good chase. But above all else, Mercy enjoys toast with a great deal of butter on it. But just how far will this mischievous pig go to get her beloved toast with butter? Find out how her search often gets Mercy into all kinds of hilarious trouble in this stage adaptation of the wildly popular chapter book series by Kate DiCamillo. $10 admission; children under 2 free. Show times vary by date. Runs June 24 through August 8.

YOSA presents “OK Computer” Live- In a unique musical event, some of San Antonio’s most exciting bands will perform Radiohead’s classic 1997 album “OK Computer” live, from start to finish. Backed up by the YOSA Philharmonic, luminaries of the local music scene will reinvent some of the most iconic alternative rock songs of the 1990s. Proceeds from this concert will benefit YOSA’s scholarship fund. $9-$45. June 27. 8 p.m.

The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-223-8624. www. yosa.org

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

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, 100 N. Main, Boerne. www.boernemarketdays.com. 210-884-8193 Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 Zootennial Celebration Series: see June 6 Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5

14 Sunday

44th Annual Texas Folklife Festival: see lead-off page 22 Sunday Jazz at the Witte: Take the family and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with “The Bill King Orchestra” in the Witte’s Will Smith amphitheater; blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged. Included with museum general admission. 3 to 6 p.m.

Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. 210-3571910. www.wittemuseum.org Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 Boerne Market Days: see June 13

15 Monday

A Walk Through the Zoo: Bring your little Zoo lover in a stroller or a sling for a fun Zoo walk. Meet at the Education Center for some brief information about your adventure, the animals you will see and to pick up a map. With this informal program, participants can walk through the Zoo at their own pace then meet zoo teachers at the times and places on the map to learn about the amazing animals. Each month will feature visits with different animals and most of the interpretation will be geared toward parents. Open to kids ages 6-30 months. Cost per person is $7 for members and $17 for nonmembers. 10 to 11 a.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org Helotes Ballet Folklorico Classes: see June 1

16 Tuesday

Movies by Moonlight: Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an outdoor screening of “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day”. Free plus free parking after 5 p.m. at city-operated parking garages, lots & meters. Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. Showtime is 8:30 p.m. Travis Park,

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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 July issue is June 8. Information cannot be accepted by phone.

301 E. Travis. www.travisparksa.com Little Explorers Mother Nature’s Storytime - Insects: Preschoolers and their caregivers can hear the tale of the “The Smallest Turtle” to find out what animals like to live at the beach while they listen to the story and make sand paintings. $5 per family. 10 to 11 a.m.

Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830-249-4616. www.cibolo.org

17 Wednesday

Zootennial Celebration Series: Wild Beginnings and Zoo Explorers offer an educational program series encouraging

Kids ages 5-17 can learn to sing, dance and shine on a stage complete with costumes, lights and a set while making friends and memories!

JUNE 22 - JULY 3

JULY 27 -AUG 7

JUNE 13 - JULY 24

jULY 27 - jULY 31

WOODLAWNAPA.ORG June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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The 44th Annual Texas Folklife Festival is set for June 13 & 14 this year. Held annually on the grounds of the Institute of Texan Cultures, the festival presents a wide variety of craft demonstrations, educational activities, and fun for the whole family. Kids 5 and under are allowed in free.

child and caregiver interactions for children ages 3-5 with stories, songs and animal close-ups. 6 to 7 p.m. $7 for members/$17 for nonmembers. Register online. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org SAMA Playdates: see June 3 Astronomy in the Park: see June 3 Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see June 3 Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 Zootennial Celebration Series: see June 6

18 Thursday World’s Largest Swimming Lesson: Youth, ages 4 to 12, are invited to get a head start on the basics of swimming for free. The parks department is joining forces with the nation’s top water safety and training organizations to present The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL), a Guinness Book of World Records setting attempt at several local pools. For a list of locations or to register, call 210207-3299. Free. 10 a.m. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/ swimming.aspx

19 Friday 49th Annual Berges Fest & Parade: This 3-day, familyfriendly festival centers around the German heritage of the Boerne area and commandeers Boerne’s Main Street on Father’s Day weekend. Attracting people from all over Texas, the festival boasts music from one of Texas’s best German folk bands, the Berges Fest Parade, dachshund

34

Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

races, carnival rides for people of all ages, family-friendly games, a vast variety of cuisines, local bands, street dances, a parade, arts and crafts and more. The Berges Fest parade draws fans from all over to line the curbsides of Main Street in Boerne in the hope of catching glimpses of royalty, heroes, clowns, and merchants alike. Parade is at 10 a.m.

Sat. Performance and gate times vary by date. Free. Boerne Main Plaza, 100 N. Main, Boerne. www.bergesfest.com Family Flicks: “Ernest & Celestine” (France, 2012) will be presented in the West Courtyard by the San Antonio Museum of Art in collaboration with Slab Cinema. Deep below snowy cobblestone streets, lives a civilization of hardworking mice, terrified of the bears that live above ground. Unlike her fellow mice, Celestine is an artist and a dreamer. When she nearly ends up as breakfast for Ernest, the two form an unlikely bond. Take lawn chairs, blankets and picnics. During inclement weather, films will be cancelled. 8:45 to 10 p.m. Free. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8183. www.samuseum.org Movie Night at the Park - “The Boxtrolls”: Local vendors serve food and drinks, and children can enjoy time on the moon bounce and at the on-site playground prior to the screening of “The Boxtrolls”. The event begins at approximately 6 p.m., and the Helotes Area Community Band performs for approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the movie. Please remember to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and personal food and beverages may also be brought into the Complex. Free and open to the public. City of Helotes Municipal Complex, to the rear of City Hall, 12951 Bandera Rd., Helotes. 210-695-8877. www.helotes-tx.gov/events/ movie-night-at-the-park/

Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see June 5 Art Stroll at the McNay: see June 5 Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5

20 Saturday Father’s Day Fiesta: Dance performances, educational booths, food and family oriented games/activities presented by American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions at San Antonio Housing Authority Park. Free.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. San Antonio Housing Authority Park, 818 South Flores St. 210-227-4940. www.events.getcreativesanantonio.com/event/detail/441888053/ Fathers_Day_Fiesta Dia de los Daddys Car Show and Swap Meet: Father’s Day weekend has something for the entire family at this two-day event. Kids can enjoy the great rides all day. Special pricing on fun foods like hot dogs, chips, snow cones, sodas and single scoop ice cream cones for only one dollar each will be available while supplies last. Free admission and $3 parking per vehicle. 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Brown Expo, Traders Village, 9333 Southwest Loop 410 at Old Pearsall Road.

210-623-8383. www.tradersvillage.com/ san-antonio/events

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Outdoor Movie at Mission Marquee Plaza: The community is invited to experience the magic and nostalgia of one of San Antonio’s historic gems as the Mission Marquee Plaza will be the setting for an outdoor screening of “Madagascar 3”. Food trucks and concessionaires will be on hand and attendees are also welcome to bring your own snacks, lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Free. 8:15 to 10:15 p.m. Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210-207-6968. www. facebook.com/MissionMarqueePlaza 3rd Saturday Tree Walk: Mark Peterson, SAWS Plant Conservationist and ISA Certified Arborist, leads the walk and discusses basic tree identification. Great for the entire family! Suggested donation of $3 per person or $5 per family. 9 to 11 a.m. Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Rd (East Side). 210-207-3280. www.philhardbergerpark.org Boxing Show at the Jesse James Leija/ San Fernando Gym: Boxing fans are invited to attend the Boxing Show featuring a variety of South Texas contenders. The gate fee is $8 per person. Children six and under are free. Jesse James Leija/San Fernando Gym, 319 W. Travis St. 210207-3151. sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/ boxing.aspx Mud Day: Celebrate Mud Day by

Looking Ahead in July “Bravo! An Evening of Song and Dance” will be in full-swing during July at the Arneson River Theatre on Friday and Saturday evenings! Shows start at 8 p.m.

And, on July 31st, kids can get the “hook-up” with fishing tips from Medina River Natural Area staff as they fish in the river from 9 to 11 a.m. bringing the family out to theme day at the SA Zoo. Attendies will be making mud soup, going on a mud bug hunt, running in a mud race, and taking part in many more activities. Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes.

This event is free with zoo admission. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo. org SA Urban Pet Market: This familyfriendly event includes vendors for all pet products/services, food trucks, pet adoptions, interactive dog games with prizes, AKC Canine Good Citizen Testing & much more! Proceeds from the event are donated to the local animal rescue

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www.love-to-swim.com June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

35

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.

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. 210-8295592. 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. 830-627-2447. 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

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Our Kids Magazine | June 2015

groups in attendance each month. Free.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. 210-722-8601. www.sa-UrbanPetMarket.com

24 Wednesday

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.

210-207-3255. www.sabot.org

Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see June 3

Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 Zootennial Celebration Series: see June 6 Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5 49th Annual Berges Fest & Parade: see June 19

SAMA Playdates: see June 3 Astronomy in the Park: see June 3

Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3

25 Thursday

GET REEL Film Series - Finding Vivian Maier: This Academy Award nominated documentary tells the story of Vivian Maier, a nanny whose true passion was photographing the people and places around her, though she never revealed this talent or her work to anyone during her lifetime. After discovering her photographs in an unmarked trunk won at a local auction, directors John Maloof and Charlie Siskel attempt to solve the mystery of who Vivian Maier really was, and chronicle her posthumous fame. 6:30 to 8 p.m. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels. 210824-5368. www.mcnayart.org

21 Sunday

Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3 49th Annual Berges Fest & Parade: see June 19 Dia de los Daddys Car Show and Swap Meet: see June 20

22 Monday

Zoo Movers: A new program at the zoo just for two-year-olds that lets them get their wiggles out. These classes are geared just for terrific twos so they can concentrate on movement, music, animal “pretend play”, and sensory experiences. Participants will also meet an animal ambassador and take a “two sized” Zoo tour. Open to toddlers aged 24-36 months. Cost per person is $7 for members and $17 for nonmembers. 10 to 11 a.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo. org

23 Tuesday

Movies by Moonlight: Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an outdoor screening of “Paddington”.

Free plus free parking after 5 p.m. at city-operated parking garages, lots & meters. Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. Showtime is 8:30 p.m. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. www.travisparksa. com Little Explorers: see June 2 Abendkonzert: see June 9

26 Friday

All-American Picnic & Movie: Celebrate he final week of Jamie Wyeth’s exhibition at this picnic party with live music, art-making and a screening of “Moonrise Kingdom”. Pre-order a picnic for two ($40) from Uncommon Fare. American wines available by the glass or bottle at the cash bar. Dress is picnic chic. Free with Special Exhibition surcharge. 7 to 11 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, West Courtyard, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. www. samuseum.org Halloween in June & Movie in the Park: Wear your costume and get ready for the costume contest prior to the start of the featured movie, “The Goonies”.

There will be prizes! Bring the entire family for an interactive evening of fun in downtown Boerne. Also, bring chairs and blankets. Free. Boerne Main Plaza, 100 N. Main, Boerne. 830-249-9511 ext. 5. www.visitboerne.org/calendar/ summer-scene-movie-park-1 Art Stroll at the McNay: Bring your stroller or baby carrier and join us for a themed tour of the museum collection and a related sensory playtime for little ones 18 months and under. Connect with other parents and caregivers to enjoy a morning at the McNay. Diapers, blankies, and yoga pants welcome!

Theme changes weekly. Strollers and baby carriers strongly encouraged.

Free for members; $10 for nonmembers. Meet in the museum lobby. 10 a.m. to noon. Register online or call

210-805-1768. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels. 210-805-1768 . mcnayart.ticketleap.com Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see June 5 Art Stroll at the McNay: see June 5 Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5

27 Saturday

Junior Gardener’s Club-Water: Investigate the importance of water to your garden.

Also, beat the summer heat and get a little wet yourself! Open to all ages. Free.

10 to 11 a.m. Herff Farm, 33 Herff Rd., Boerne. 830-249-4616. www.cibolo.org Nature Walk - Photographing Nature: Donald Ewers leads this walk focused on photographing nature. Participants are encouraged to bring their cameras to document the beauty of the natural areas along the Oak Loop Trail.

Registration required. A donation of $3 per individual or $5 per family is suggested. 8 to 10 a.m. Phil Hardberger Park, 8400 NW Military Hwy. (West SidePHP Urban Ecology Center Courtyard).

210-207-3280. www.philhardbergerpark. org 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. Today’s feature is “Inside Out”.

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.autism-society.org/ get-involved/events/sensory-friendly-films Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3

environment. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Cost is $15 per member or $25 per nonmember. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210734-7184. www.sazoo.org Family Art Play: The last Sunday of every month, the McNay offers a program for families that involves looking carefully at works of art and investigating a studio or performance component afterwards. This month’s theme is Cartoon Portraits.

Free with museum admission. 1 and 3 p.m. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-805-1768. www. mcnayart.org

Fiesta Noche del Rio: see June 5

Studio 88 Summer Youth Choir: see June 3

28 Sunday

30 Tuesday

Zoo’s Family Citizen Science Group: Go to the Zoo to play in nature while discovering some conservation methods as the Family Citizen Science group learns about conservation programs that help specific animals. Families can also learn some conservation methods that they can use in their own backyards. This month’s theme is “Cats, Big and Small” and will focus on learning about observation methods that biologists use for the

Movies by Moonlight: Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an outdoor screening of “Mary Poppins”.

Free plus free parking after 5 p.m. at cityoperated parking garages, lots & meters.

Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m.

Showtime is 8:30 p.m. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. www.travisparksa.com Little Explorers: see June 2

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June 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Your Kids In Our Kids (Left to right starting from the top left)

Top Row: Luke & Dad | Hanithra & Dad | Mia & Dad Middle: Aubrey Lynn & Dad | Quinn, Ilyanna & Dad | Andrew & Dad | Madelynn Christine & Dad Bottom Row: Emma & Dad | Rendyn, Ryan & Dad | Tristan, Jase & Dad

July Theme is Red, White & Blue Visit OurKidsMagazine.com and Submit Your Kids Photos The deadline to submit photos is June 17, 2015. By uploading photos to Your Kids in Our Kids, you give us permission to publish your photos in Our Kids Magazine and online on our website.

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