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Advanced Care for
BACK AND NECK PAIN CLOSE TO HOME
Spine Specialists Serving Clear Lake If you suffer from back and neck pain, you have options when it comes to treatment. The specialists at Houston Methodist Spine Center at Clear Lake are experts in treating back and neck pain — from everyday discomfort to complex conditions and injuries. And, during the coronavirus outbreak, you can be confident that we are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe during your visit. Our Spine Center provides: • A multidisciplinary team of board-certified doctors • Advanced treatment ranging from nonsurgical options to minimally invasive surgery
• Expedited appointments (within five business days) • A dedicated navigator • Personalized care conveniently located close to home
Visit houstonmethodist.org/spine/clearlake to request an appointment online or call 281.523.3355.
In addition to being a short-order cook, housekeeper, and 24/7 chauffeur, I’m also my kids’ #1 fear-fighter. I check under their beds for bad guys and stick my own arm in the toy bin “to make sure the crab isn’t real.” Almost every day my kids ask for help with scary situations. My daughter believes zombies live in our attic and my son swears he’s seen a green ghost in my bedroom. I tell them, “Monsters are just pretend,” but neither child believes me. They’re convinced that danger lurks in the darkness.
WHERE FEARS COME FROM Kids’ fears are as unique as their personalities. Many young kids are afraid of animals and insects (dogs, snakes, spiders), characters in costumes (beware Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny), and things that go bump in the night. Others fear loud noises or believe they’ll be sucked down the toilet when it flushes. Even kids who don’t believe in the boogeyman may fret about schoolyard bullies. “Some kids are more fearful than others because they are born with a predisposition to worry,” says San Diego, Calif., clinical psychologist Joanne Wendt, PhD. Other fears grow in response to trauma. For example, a child may start to fear bees after being stung himself or seeing a classmate get stung on the playground. A little information can be dangerous: Kids who learn about killer bees may believe backyard bumblebees are mini-mercenaries. Adult role models can also fuel kids’ fears. A mom who is deathly afraid of escalators may pass along her anxieties by telling kids moving stairs are slippery and insisting the whole family take the elevator. “Kids look to parents for cues about whether a situation is safe,” says Tamar Chansky, PhD, author of Freeing Your Child from Anxiety. “Parents need to be mindful of the signals they send so they don’t send fearful messages about objects or situations that are basically safe, or can be managed,” she says.
FIGHT FEARS TOGETHER Dismissing kids’ concerns isn’t the answer. “Parents can unintentionally feed kids’ fears by reassuring them they have nothing to worry about,” Wendt warns. The best approach is problem-solving. Here are some ways to do it.
mind,’ ask your child what he really thinks will happen,” Chansky says. A worry might be saying, “The 6th-grade bully will toss me in the trash can,” but your child’s smarter side knows, “The trash can has a locked cover.”
IDENTIFY THE ISSUE. When your child comes to you for help with a fear, engage in some critical thinking. Questions like “Why are you afraid of this spider?” and “Have you been hurt by a spider in the past?” encourage your child to define her fear more clearly. Once she’s defined her fear, she can start to question its legitimacy.
FIGHT SCARY WITH SILLY. Have your child draw a picture of the thing that scares her. Then, do a goofy makeover. The hairy monster in your daughter’s closet will look a lot less frightening wearing a ballet tutu and hair curlers. Coach your child to imagine the monster slipping on a banana peel or falling off a cliff. “This allows her to take charge of her fear and her imagination,” Chansky says.
TEACH KIDS TO THINK TWICE. First, ask your child what worry is telling him about the situation, using a funny voice or puppet to represent worry. “Then, using his ‘smarter
PRACTICE SELF-SOOTHING. Kids can learn breathing and muscle relaxation techniques to calm themselves. The easiest strategy is to breathe slowly while counting to four and
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breathe out while counting to seven. This focuses your child’s attention and puts him back in control. “Repeating a special word, phrase or affirmation, such as ‘I can handle this,’ also eases anxiety,” Wendt says. Practice these calming behaviors every day so they become automatic. STEP IT UP. Use a technique called systematic desensitization to approach the feared situation gradually. “Make a simple drawing of a stairway from the side view and put your child’s goal at the top,” Chansky says. Then start at the bottom and write in steps from the least to most threatening. For example, a child whose goal is to pet a dog might start by looking at pictures of dogs, visiting a pet store or animal shelter and letting a dog sniff her hand. Remind your child to take deep breaths as anxieties escalate. BE PATIENT. Forcing kids to confront their fears when they aren’t ready will only increase their anxiety. Talk about your own insecurities and model a courageous approach to the unknown. When your child feels overwhelmed, allow him to step back and observe the scary situation from a distance. Before long, he’ll probably be ready to reengage.
IF GHOSTS WON’T GO All kids have occasional worries, but some suffer from intense and persistent fears. “Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric disorders, affecting between 10 and 17 percent of children and teens,” Chansky says. “They are also the most treatable.” Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, kids can learn to turn down their over-reactive emotion systems and teach their brains new tricks. If your child’s fears keep her from enjoying everyday activities at home and at school, reach out to your pediatrician or school psychologist. A professional fear-buster can help your child say “Boo!” to ghosts and other childhood anxieties.
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D Party Planning Guide ABOVE THE BAR Parties include 1 hour of gym time and 45 minutes for the birthday celebration. Includes inflatables, Tumble Trak, foam block pit, games, and more! www.abovethebargym.com Kemah 832-932-1466 League City 281-672-7198
ACROSPORTS Choose from a Gymnastics, Swimming, or Ninja Warrior Party. Fully trained staff members work each party to ensure safety and FUN! Only one party in the gym/pool at a time so you have the space to yourselves! www.acrosports.com Friendswood: 281-332-4496 League City: 281-967-7261
AMY BLAKE’S ACADEMY OF DANCE A one-hour dance class in your choice of ballet, jazz, or hip hop followed by a one-hour party. $10 per child with a 10-child minimum plus $100.00 facility rental. www.amyblakedance.com 281-482-0600
BRICKS & MINIFIGS What could be better than a LEGO® themed party for your LEGO® fan? Schedule the most amazing birthday party in our store’s dedicated party room! Fun and easy for parents, too - no setup, no clean up, just show up! Your children and their friends will love it! www.bricksandminifigs.com/pearland-tx/ 281-471-0279
CHARA DANCE Themes include Ballerina Birthday, Hip-Hop Birthday, Jazz It Up Birthday, and Tumbling Fun Birthday! www.charadance.com/birthday-parties 832-569-4065
to maximize the fun. Decorations, themes, party favors, food, refreshments, and more available upon request. We’ll work with you to plan the best birthday party you’ve ever had! www.codeninjas.com/tx-league-city/birthday-parties 281-339-7482 www.codeninjas.com/birthday-parties/tx-pearlandshadow-creek Shadow Creek 832-849-5110 www.codeninjas.com/birthday-parties/tx-pearlandsilverlake Silverlake 832-777-3662
GALVESTON RAILROAD MUSEUM Celebrate with trains! Host a one of a kind birthday party that your child will never forget! Many Birthday Party Packages to choose from! www.galvestonmuseum.com 409-765-5700
IDEA LAB KIDS Take our STEAM learning out of the classroom and into a custom-designed, fun party experience for all! There are a variety party themes to choose from. All parties incorporate inventive, hands-on activities in a festive atmosphere tailored to a child’s interests and age. www.pearland.idealabkids.com 832-295-0796
THE HEALTH MUSEUM www.thehealthmuseum.org 713-521-1515
THE HOUSTON ZOO www.houstonzoo.org 713-533-6500
JUMPS R US
Celebrate your child with a birthday party at the ultimate Playground for Your Mind! www.cmhouston.org 713-522-1138
We offer Moonwalks, Slides, Water Slides, Combos, Concession Products, Tables & Chairs and more for your party rental fun! Free delivery to League City and surrounding areas, including Friendswood, Clear Lake, Webster, Pearland, Alvin, Santa Fe, Dickinson, Texas City, La Marque, Galveston and more. www.jumpsrustx.com/ 832-763-4955
CODE NINJAS
LOBO GYMNASTICS
PARTY LIKE A NINJA! Celebrate your child’s birthday ninja-style. We’ll handle the details so you can focus on having a great time. Build video games while learning to code. Play your favorite video games with friends. Construct and play with cool robotics. Engage in fun STEM games and activities. Helpful staff on hand
Birthday Parties are “Chalk Full of FUN” at LOBO! Gymnastics Parties Include: obstacle course, trampolines, foam pits, parachute games, rope swing, 360-degree slide from our upstairs gym to the downstairs gym. www.lobogymnastics.com 281-480-5626
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF HOUSTON
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LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM Get ready to soar in for a party that will not soon be forgotten! Recommended for ages 6 and up, packages include museum access, party room, and knowledge hunt. www.lonestarflight.org 1-888-FLY-LSFM (359-5736)
MAIN EVENT Main Event throws EPIC birthday parties for kids! The most FUN you can have under one roof! www.mainevent.com Webster 281-332-4500
MOODY GARDENS Rainforest theme, Palm Beach, Aquarium and more. www.moodygardens.com/education/birthday_parties 1-800-582-4673
PREMIER MARTIAL ARTS Throw the Best Birthday Party Ever! Martial Arts-themed birthday parties are easy for you and fun for your kids Our birthday parties are fun, active and educational - and your kid will shine in front of their best friends. Best of all, we take care of everything - so you can enjoy the day too! www.premiermartialarts.com/birthday-parties/ League City 281-332-5425 Dickinson 832-285-5177 Pearland 832-328-5139
SEA STAR BASE GALVESTON With four conference rooms overlooking the bayou, a reception hall with panoramic views, and outdoor spaces on our pristine waterfront, your next event is sure to be a hit! Receive 5% off your rental with promo code: PARENTEVENT5 www.ssbgalveston.org/specialevents 409-572-256
SUGAR LAND SKEETERS Birthdays at the Ballpark! Celebrate your birthday at Constellation Field! No Worries, No Clean Up. We do all the work! Check out our available packages and book your party today! www.sugarlandskeeters.com/groups/birthdays
THE HOUSTON ZOO A birthday party at the Zoo will be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests! www.houstonzoo.org 713-533-6500
THE LITTLE GYM For ages 1-12, full access of the facility with an instructor for games, music, and Lego. We set up and clean for you, offering a totally awesome birthday experience. www.tlgfriendswoodtx.com | 281-482-4242 www.tlgpearlandtx.com | 713-340-0042
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October Family Friendly Events
October 1 Little Gym of Friendswood Parent’s Survival Night
Meet us at the monster mash where we’ll make witch’s brew and build gymnastics skills too! With a variety of activities centered around imagination and cooperation, all are guaranteed to have a wicked good time. 6:30-10:30 pm • Ages 3-12 • $35 members $40 non members www.thelittlegym.com/FriendswoodTX/eventsmore-fun/drop-ins-events#schedule
October 2 Galveston County Fall Festival and BBQ Cookoff
Sample BBQ from over 30 BBQ Cookoff teams for only $10. Childrens under 13 eat for free. Hosted by Galveston County Judge Mark Henry. 11am-5 pm www.gcbbqcookoff.com
Kemah Boardwalk Craft Fall Beer Festival
The Kemah Boardwalk is hosting its annual Craft Beer Festival where visitors can sip and sample over 72 craft beers from 24 unique breweries. Beer Fest attendees can also dance the night away with live music and enjoy Bratwurst samples and giveaways, while supplies last. Beer will be flowing in the Main Event Plaza and Bradford Plaza, where guests can also enjoy performances by Horizon from 2 – 6 pm and Midnight Release from 7 – 11 pm. www.KemahBeerFest.com
Music to My Beers held at Pearland Town Center
Bring your friends, your appetite, and your lederhosen to this year’s Oktoberfest-themed Music to My Beers extravaganza. 2-9 pm www.visitpearland.com/musicbeers
Mistletoe Market
9 am- 4 pm • Mistletoe Market has become a tradition in our community since 2003. www.club-bellavita.org
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Family Fire Prevention at Helen Hall Library
indicates a halloween or fall themed event
October 8
Does your family have a fire plan? Join us for crafts and information to keep your family safe! 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. All ages https://helenhall.libguides.com/c. php?g=932760&p=6729093
Corn Hole Open Play
Astronomy in the Park
Movie at the Fire Station
Astronomy in the Park will meet the first Saturday of every month at Rustic Oaks Park. We encourage those attending to bring binoculars if you have them. Astronomy in the Park will run from June through November. This program is run by Daniel Roy. 7-10 pm www.leaguecity.com/Calendar. aspx?EID=11651
October 2 & 3 Hope Fest at Hope Lutheran Church
All proceeds fund four local charities and congregational initiatives. We hope you will join us at 1804 S. Friendswood Dr., Oct. 2 - craft fair/silent auction/plant sale and tea room Oct. 3 - craft fair/silent auction/plant sale, worship 9:30 am, BBQ, bloodmobile and family games www.hope-lutheran.org
October 3 Pearland Market Days
11 am - 5 pm • Shopping, Drinks, Music, Face Painting, Petting Zoo, Food Trucks and Bounce House www.facebook.com/pearlandmarketdays
October 5 FREE Admission at the Houston Zoo
Free daytime admission to the Houston Zoo is provided once a month, on the first Tuesday of each month, from open until closing. Online reservations are required for all guests and members during this time. Tickets will not be available at the gate. 9am-5pm www.houstonzoo.org
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Join us at Lynn Gripon Park at Countryside for cornhole and other fun games along with music and local food trucks. Starts at 6 pm. www.leaguecity.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3179 Join us for a showing of ‘Boss Baby’! RSVP to WFD Fire Marshall Warren Chappell by Oct. 7 wchappell@websterfd.com. 7-9 pm www.cityofwebster.com
October 8 & 9 Saint Andrews Craft Fair
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 33rd Annual Craft Fair held in conjunction with our FREE community Pumpkin Patch. Artists and crafters will be selling handmade items and some resale www.pumpkinchurch.com/2021-craft-fair.html
October 9 Michaels Take and Make Halloween Bag
Come in to your local Michaels to pick up a free craft! This week’s craft is Halloween treat bags. Take & Makes are available at the register. Ask a Cashier or Team Member if you need help! www.locations.michaels.com/TX/PEARLAND/3763
Celebration Seabrook
11 am- 7:30 pm Held at Rex Meador Park www.seabrooktx.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=1401 &month=10&year=2021&day=9&calType=0
League City Walk for Wellness 1k/5k Race Begins at 7:30 am www.raceentry.com/races/walk-forwellness/2021/register
Friendswood Dance Festival
6:00pm - 8:30pm • FREE to the public Evelyn B. Newman Amphitheater, Centennial Park, Friendswood • Food Trucks on Site www.friendswoodcontemporaryballet.com/ fwddancefestival
October 9 & 10
October 15 & 16
Wings Over Houston Airshow 2021
Gloria Dei Craft Show
One of the top air shows in the United States, this premier Houston event at Ellington Airport is dedicated to showcasing vintage World War II aircraft, along with the thrills of modern aviation, and has supported a variety of local and national charities during its 37-year history. www.wingsoverhouston.com
Pearland Arts & Crafts on the Pavilion
10 am-5 pm • Pearland Art & Crafts on the Pavilion returns for another year of unique finds created by local artists including abstract art, handcrafted jewelry, pottery and more! The FREE, juried art show is presented by the Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau. The popular event arrives on Saturday, October 9 and Sunday, October 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pearland Town Center. FREE at Pearland Town Center www.visitpearland.com/2021artshow
October 12 Preschool and Homeschool Open Gym at Above the Bar Gymnastics Academy
Open gyms for pre-schoolers and home schoolers! Jump, tumble and run- on inflatables, TumblTrak, trampolines, rope swings, foam block pit, and pre-school circuits. $10 first child, $5 for each additional sibling. 10—11:30 am www.abovethebargym.com/open-gyms-fridaynight-fun-preschool/
10 am -4 pm • Plan to attend the Gloria Dei craft show on Oct 15 and 16 in the Life Center. We will have an extensive selection of homemade crafts and novelties from more than 50 venders. It’s the perfect time to shop for Christmas presents for friends and family! Plus, you can enjoy homemade baked items by the Friendship club as well as lunch selections. www.gdlc.org/event/2716029-2021-10-15craft-show
October 15-23 Brazoria County Fair
Fun for the Whole Herd! www.brazoriacountyfair.com
included. Events include games, bar activity, beam activity, floor activity, trampoline activity, a craft and other themed activities. 3 and older to attend 6 -10 pm $25 per child www.legacy-gym.com/events
PJ’s in the Park sponsored by Pearland Parks and Recreation Held at Independence Park 7 pm www.pearlandtx.gov/Home/Components/ Calendar/Event/4521/20
Music and Movement at Helen Hall
Join us for songs, movement, and playing with musical instruments. 10:30 - 11 a.m. Families with children birth to 8 www.helenhall.libguides.com/c. php?g=932760&p=6729093
October 17
October 16
Deer Park United Methodist Church Movie in the Patch
Harvest Fest
9 am- 2 pm • Our League City Harvest Festival is a free annual tradition in League City at League Park! Family and friends can enjoy a day of fun, food and festivities! Local Artisans will showcase their creative work and crafts for sale. Craft Show, Food Trucks, Free Face Painting, hayrides, kids crafts and games. www.leaguecity.com/3751/Harvest-Festival
Legacy Gymnastics Parent’s Night Out
Kids’ Night Out is held once a month at our gym where coaches guide kids through a night of fun. They rotate from event to event with a dinner
A showing in our patch of the Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin movie.6:00pm (or dark) www.dpumc.org
Oct. 18-24 StoryWalk at Helen Hall Library
Enjoy a story with your family as you stroll outside the library. A small prize will be available in the Children’s Department when the walk is completed. 10 am -6 pm All Ages. www.helenhall.libguides.com/c. php?g=932760&p=6729093
Pumpkin Patches! Deer Park United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch
Opening Oct. 3 Hours: Monday – Friday- 2 - 7pm, Saturday 9am - 7pm and Sunday -11am - 7 pm www.dpumc.org
Shepherd of the Heart Pumpkin Patch and Train
Oct 4 - 31st Monday thru Saturday 10 am -6 pm , Sundays 12-6 pm. Train runs Saturday 10 am-6 pm and Sunday 12 pm- 6 pm. www.shepherdoftheheart.org
Watershed Church Pumpkin Patch
October 26 - 31st Sun 11 am - 6:30 pm, Mon-Fri. 1 pm - 7 pm, Saturday 9 am - 6 pm. Blessings of the Pets Oct 2. 11 am and 2 pm Pumpkin Chunkin Oct. 16/17 and 23/24 www.thewatershedchurch.com
7 Acre Wood
Pumpkins all October! Come Celebrate the Fall with us and our barnyard friends! Monday thru Saturday 9 am- 5 pm Sundays 12 moon- 5 pm www.7acrewood.org
Pumpkin Patch at Seabrook United Methodist Church Open thru Halloween Night www.seabrookumc.org
Blue Monkey Pumpkin Patch
The Pumpkin Patch will be open beginning September 24th! The store will be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until dark during Pumpkin season. www.bluemonkeytexas.com
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Pumpkin Patch
Welcome to Pearland’s famous Pumpkin Patch. We are fortunate to be consistently listed as the top Pumpkin Patch in the Houston area; and, to be consistently placed among the top 10 fundraising Patches in the nation. Pumpkin Patch Hours: Monday – Thursday noon – 8 pm, Friday – Sunday 10 am – 8 pm October 24th Trick or Treating in the Patch www.pumpkinchurch.com/the-pumpkin-patch.html
Pack 1965 Clear Lake/Nassau Bay Pumpkin Patch
St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church Open 7 days a week www.pack1965.org/pumpkins?fbclid=IwAR0p ctR8mc1NMcEJQUB-4CA5ErM7ITxeuu26FNRY 96WH0nlvdExE6t5OaNQ
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ongoing
Fall Festivals Froberg Farms Fall Festival
Fall Festival and Corn Maze attractions include: Plastic Duck Races, Face Painting, Glitter Tattoos, Emoji Cannon, Friendly Fire, Sunflower Trail, Pumpkin Patch, Paintball Train, Jumping Pillow and Bee Coaster. www.frobergsfarm.com/fall-festival
Blessington Farms
open thru Nov. 21st Saturdays and Sundays 9 am – 4 pm Open Saturday and Sundays 9am-4 pm New Fall Farmers Market, Animal Encounter, Barrel Train, Slide Mountain and much more! www.blessingtonfarms.com
Kemah Boo on the Boardwalk 20th Anniversary
Our FREE spooktacular event includes creepy crafts, trick or treating, costume contests, special performances and more ghoulish fun on Freaky Fridays, Spooky Saturdays & Scary Sundays. Don’t miss our Little Boo Haunted Fun House and Dungeon of Doom Haunted House. Full schedule online www.kemahboardwalk.com/events.asp#8
Dewberry Farms Fall Festival
Open through November 14th 8 acres of cornfield maze, heaps of pumpkins, and Spooky Hollow in the Woods. Tickets start at $19.95 www.dewberryfarm.com
47th Annual Texas Renaissance Festival
Opens October 9th thru November 28th Since 1974, there has been a magical kingdom about an hour north of the Houston area, where guests can step through the gates and enter an enchanted world filled with kings and queens, knights and nobles, fairies and elves, pirates and peasants, and other fanciful delights. www.texrenfest.com
October 22 Clear Lake Community Association Fall Festival /Pumpkin Palooza
6-8 pm www.clcca.org/events
Boo Dash Run 5K and Kids K Fun Run
Nerf Nights Alvin Parks and Recreation
Held at Newman Park- Don’t Forget to bring your Nerf Guns! FREE www.alvin-tx.gov/page/parks.recprograms
October 23 Deer Park United Methodist Church Fall Festival
FREE Games, crafts, rides, and popcorn for the kids. Food, vendor booths, and a silent auction for adults. www.dpumc.org
Michaels Take and Make Halloween Pony Bead Bracelet
FREE Take and Make kits are found at the register. www.locations.michaels.com
Creepin’ Crawl Halloween Ball at Alpha Omega Gymnastics
Gymnastics, games, arts and crafts, science experiments, dinner and a movie. 5:30-9:30 pm Ages 3+ Members $25/child, $20/Sibling; Non-Members $35/child, $30/sibling *Extended Care until 10:30 +$10 per child www.pearland.alphaomegagymnastics.com
Trunk or Treat at Peace Church
Guest stay in their cars and drive through as volunteers hand out candy from fun decorated trunks! There will also be snow cones! Costumes encouraged! Free • 3-5 pm www.facebook.com/PeaceChurchPearland/photos /a.179215232090240/4756854314326286
Touch a Truck Texas City
10 am - 4 pm (10-11am silent sensory hour, no horns) Over 70 vehicles to explore, all on 6th Street! www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1946820572151507
October 24 Trick or Treating in the Patch St. Andrews Episcopal church
www.pumpkinchurch.com/the-pumpkin-patch.html
Halloween in the Park
Great community event. Safe and fun for the kids. Sponsored by Friendswood Chamber of Commerce. 5-7 pm • Held at Stevenson Park www.friendswoodchamber.com
Experience the third annual Boo Dash 5K and Kids K on Halloween, October 30, 2021. Grab the family and join other runners for Halloween costume contest or come as you are to have some BOOTASTIC FUN! Start Time: Kids K-8 am:5K-8:15am www.boodash.org
City of Webster Fall Festival
6-9pm • held at Texas Ave Park www.cityofwebster.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=2762
7 Acre Wood Thrill at the Mill!
10 am- 3 pm • Free Admission! Tickets sold for Hayride, Barrel Train Ride, Face Painting, paintball, pumpkins and food. www.7acrewood.org
Parents Night Out Haunted House at Reflex Pearland Gymnastics Academy
Do you need a night away from the kids? We understand! Our Parent’s Night Out is a fullysupervised evening where kids will enjoy fun games, jumping on the trampolines, bounce house and more. Food and drinks are provided. Pre-registration is required. Pizza, Games, Bounce House and More! Children must be fully potty trained to attend. 6-10 pm Members $25, Non—Members, Each Additional Child $15 www.pearlandgym.com/events/parents-night-out
Parent’s Night Out at Code Ninjas League City
Drop off your kids at Code Ninjas where they will play games, assemble puzzles, build robotics, and more! Pizza provided! 5:30-8:30 pm www.codeninjas.com/tx-league-city
Pumpkin Walk and Trick or Treating at Helen Hall Library
Helen Hall Library is a Teal Pumpkin project site. 10 am-6 pm All Ages www.leaguecity.com/3146/Helen-Hall-Library
October 31 Trunk or Treat at Gateway Community Church
6-8 pm www.gateway-community.org/event/26894102021-10-31-trunk-or-treat
Alvin Parks and Recreation, 17th Annual Trick or Trail
October 29 Fall Festival at University Baptist Church
FREE, Fun, family activities for all ages including carnival games & prizes, inflatables, face painting, popcorn, tons of candy, and special activities just for preschoolers. 5:30-8 pm www.ubc.org/calendar/detail/1764265-2021-1029-fall-festival
October 30 Trunk or Treat at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
image courtesy of www.vecteezy.com
enjoy some awesome fun together! Check the website for parking information and registration bag pick up. www.gdlc.org/event/2387473-2021-10-30-trunkor-treat/
10 am- noon • Dress up in your best Halloween costume and join us for a morning of candy! This is a great opportunity to gather the whole family and
The Park will be filled with treat stations sponsored by local businesses and organization. Don’t forget your costume! 6:30-8:50 pm Held at National Oak Park www.alvin-tx.gov/page/parks.recprograms
Pearland Parks and Recreation Trick or Trail
Calling all ghosts and goblins! Join us at the 15th Annual Trick or Treat Trail! Trick-or-Treaters of all ages are invited out to this FREE community-wide event. Local businesses and organizations will line the “trail” to pass out candy and other goodies. 6-8 pm Held at Independence Park www.parks.pearlandtx.gov/special-events/trick-oftreat-trail
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Ongoing Events Sundays Bay Area Farmer’s Market
11am- 3pm • Baybrook Mall • Bay Area Farmers Market’s mission is to support our community’s healthy lifestyle choices by providing our customers with Vendors who bring to the Bay Area Farmers Market quality, locally-produced agricultural foods and locally-made products, using locally-sourced agricultural ingredients when possible, and whose Vendors honestly communicate to the customers their practices, techniques, and ingredients, while also supporting the great State of Texas’ local, small farmers, businesses and entrepreneurs. www.bayareafarmersmarkettexas.com
Mondays Toddler Time at Helen Hall Library
10:15- 10:45 am and 11:15-11:45 am • Wiggles, songs, rhymes, and a story. Ages 1-3 and caregivers RSVP www.leaguecitylibrary.org
Pearland Library Baby Bounce
10:15-11:15 am www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/pea/pearland.asp
Friendswood Library Rattle and Rhyme Storytime at Centennial Park 9:30 am • Ages 0-18 months www.friendswood.lib.tx.us
Mondays & Wednesdays Craft Kits at Friendswood Library
FREE Craft kits are available at the drive-thru window or at the desk in the children’s department. www.friendswood.lib.tx.us
Tuesdays Friendswood Library Toddler Storytime at Centennial Park 9:30 am • Ages 0-3 years www.friendswood.lib.tx.us
Preschool Story Time
10:15-10:45am and 11:15-11:45a • Stories, songs, and rhymes. Children will have a short craft time at the end of the program. Ages 3-5 and their caregivers. RSVP • Helen Hall Library www.leaguecitylibrary.org
Pearland Library Toddler Time
11:15-12:15pm www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/pea/pearland.asp
Tuesdays & Fridays Preschool and Home School Open Gyms at Above the Bar 10-11:30 am • Open gyms for pre-schoolers and home schoolers! Jump, tumble & run on inflatables, TumblTrak, trampolines, rope swings, foam block pit, and pre-school circuits. $10 for first child, $5 for each additional sibling. All Open Gym participants must complete event Waiver. www.abovethebargym.com/open-gyms-friday-nightfun-preschool/
Wednesdays
Thursdays
Craft Kits at Friendswood Library
FREE Visits to Houston Museums
Pick up these bags filled with fun crafts for 8-18 year olds at our Drive-Thru window or from the Children’s Department! www.friendswood.lib.tx.us
Babies and Books
10:15 - 10:45 am • Tickles, giggles, rhymes, and a story for those who BYOB (bring your own baby). Ages: Designed for birth to walking. RSVP www.leaguecitylibrary.org
Angleton Library Story Time
Stories, songs, and activities designed for 3-5 year olds. Limit 36. Please arrive up to 30 minutes before the program to get a wristband. www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/ang/angleton.asp
Pearland Westside Library Story Time
10:15 -11:15 am • Books, songs, fingerplays, crafts, and FUN! www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/pws/pearlandwest.asp
Manvel Library Preschool Storytime 10:15-10:45 am www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/man/manvel.asp
Brazoria Library Preschool Story time
10:30 -11:30 am • All programs are held outside. In case of inclement weather, programs will be virtual on the Danbury Facebook page. www.bcls.lib.tx.us
Alvin Library Storytime
10:30 -11 am • Join us on the Alvin Library Facebook page for a story, songs and rhymes for ages 3-6. www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/alv/alvin.asp
EcoAdventurers
9:30-11:30 am • An in depth study of environmental science topics while engaging the homeschooled student in STEM activities. $14/program; Non Members $17/program www.abnc.org/eco-programs
Friendswood Library Preschool Storytime at Centennial Park 9:30 am www.friendswood.lib.tx.us
Wednesdays & Fridays EcoKids
9:30-11:30 am • At ABNC, our goal is to give children the opportunity to observe nature in action. We encourage observation, exploration, problem solving and creativity (STEM activities). This drop-off program is for ages 3 to 6 years old who are fully potty trained. $12/program; Non Members $14/ program www.abnc.org
EcoSchoolers
9:30-11:30 am • A hands-on environmental education activities plus STEM challenges for the home school student. Our science activities will help create curiosity and passion for the natural world.This drop-off program is for ages 7-12. $14/program; Non Members $17/program www.abnc.org
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston courtesy of Shell Oil Company • 5-9pm www.mfah.org/visit/visiting-mfah-free The Health Museum • 2-7pm www.houmuse.org/visit/the-health-museum Houston Museum of Natural Science Permanent Exhibits • 2-5pm www.houmuse.org/visit/houston-museum-of-naturalscience/ Children’s Museum Houston • 5-8pm www.cmhouston.org
Angleton Library Movers and Shakers
10-10:30 am • A music and movement program designed for toddlers. Limit 36. Please arrive up to 30 minutes before the program to get a wristband. www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/ang/angleton.asp
Alvin Library Toddler time
10:30 -11 am www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/pea/pearland.asp
Pearland Library Preschool Storytime
10:30-11:30 am www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/pea/pearland.asp
Manvel Library Toddler Time
Thursdays • 10:15-10:45 am www.bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/man/manvel.asp
Pajama Story Time at Helen Hall
6-6:30 pm • Pajama Storytime Put on your PJs and join us for movement, songs, and stories as we wind down for the evening. Ages: 3-8. RSVP www.leaguecitylibrary.org
Fridays Friday Night Fun at Above the Bar
7:30 – 10 pm • Drop off the kids for a fun time with coach-led, high-energy activities including trampolines, inflatables, and games! Pizza snack is included, but bring a drink or cash for vending machines. $20 for gym members/ $25 for non-members Walk-ins on Friday evening $30 for gym members / $35 for non-members • kids ages 5 to 14 www.abovethebargym.com/open-gyms-friday-nightfun-preschool
EcoTots
9:30 am • Fun introduction to animals, plants, and other nature topics. Program uses movement, storytelling, art, animal demonstrations, and games to make nature come alive. (for ages 18 mos - 4 years. Must be accompanied by an adult) $12 www.abnc.org
Nature Journal Challenge
10am • Nature Journal Challenge Plants, bugs, and mud, oh my! We are exploring everything nature has to offer in our weekly Nature Journal Challenge! This program is virtual on Instagram. www.leaguecitylibrary.org
Saturdays Nassau Bay Farmers Market
In front of Erma’s Nutrition • 10 am-2 pm www.facebook.com/NassauBayFarmersMarket
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My daughter gets tons of candy when she goes trick-or-treating. Some families like to dole it out a piece a day so it last for months. That’s too much temptation for me to have around. I want it all gone quickly! Here’s how we use it up in a flash.
Breakfast treat The morning after Halloween is a special breakfast feast. I make up a batch of waffle batter and we all add our choice of candies to the batter. We then top the waffles with more whipped cream and more candy. No, it isn’t healthy, but it’s a treat that only occurs once a year. Bragging rights go to the most outrageous waffle. My husband’s “nerd” filled waffle is the current champion.
Brownies, cookies and cupcakes Chop candy and add to batter for brownies, cookies and cupcakes. Use the candy in place of traditional chocolate chips. I place chocolate bars on top of cupcakes as soon as they come out of the oven. The warm cupcakes melt the chocolate. I then spread it with a knife as the icing.
Candy Sushi Roll rice crispy treats thin with a rolling pin. Put candy inside and roll up. Wrap the rolls in green fruit rollups and then slice. My daughter likes to put Swedish fish inside the rolls for an “authentic” looking sushi roll.
Fudge We make this leftover candy fudge for my father-in-law. He looks forward to it all year. Throw about a pound of chocolate candy bars in a microwave safe bowl. Melt it in twenty second increments, stirring in between. Stir in a can of sweetened condensed milk when chocolate is melted. Spread it out in a large rectangular pan and chill in the refrigerator until hardened. Hershey, Reese cups, Snickers, York and Milky Way are a few of the candies we’ve turned into fudge. We always have an assortment of types of candy in the batch.
Ice cream social I let my daughter have a slumber party a week or two after Halloween. I put out all of the leftover candy and all of the other treats we’ve made. I give the girls each a bowl with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in it and let them go wild with the toppings. Yes, it’s a crazy night full of giggles, but the sweets are almost always gone by the end of it! Feasting on candy right after Halloween and then being done with it keeps it special. My daughter enjoys these traditions more than the actual trick-or-treating.