Dallas Parent, April 2017 by Suburban Parent

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APRIL 2017 | FREE suburbanparent.com

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the special needs issue

EXCEPTIONAL CHILD? CONSIDER SUMMER CAMP

Happy Easter

25 TO-DOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

BEFORE THEY ARE GROWN

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

THE SHAPE OF BEHAVIOR

SEE WHAT WE LOVE THIS MONTH!

BE A SCAVENGER!

SEE OUR FUN STUFF NATURE HUNT p. 28

CHECK OUT OUR TIME-OUT EVENTS! #dontmissathing

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APRIL 2017

maryshares

Bloom a New You!

he 4th month of the year arrives and our hearts are already full with thoughts of renewal and fresh beginnings. The name for the month of April originally came from the word Aprilis,

which means “to open”. Think blooming spring flowers. Of course, we are also inspired by April to consider spring cleaning and lovely spring fashions, etc. But

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Mary Ellen Caldwell, RD, LD, CLT editor@suburbanparent.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR Francie Morin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lara Krupicka Ashley Talmadge

CALENDAR EDITOR

before spring fever seduces you, I’d like to plant a little seed to nurture you. A

Georgina Torres

seed planted in your heart.

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Although all things spring brings great pleasure and worth the efforts, the effects only last for a season. However, a spiritual cleansing could last for all eternity. So before you labor to gain the pleasurable effects from spring’s offerings, why don’t you steady yourself and reflect first on your relationship with our Lord. Let Him do some spring cleaning on your soul! Drawing close to Him in prayer allows your heart and body to be cleansed. Cleansed from sin when we confess and ask for forgiveness, cleansed from bitterness (baggage in the attic) when we ask God to forgive others who hurt us. We can’t do this type of cleansing on our own, we need Him. And remember, God made you for His pleasure, so let him be pleased with the effects of His grace that could last for all eternity.

Nicole Wierick Photography nicolewierickphotography.com

AD DESIGNERS Alex Canales So Hee Lee Won

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Denise Miller Georgina Torres Julie Lesser Williams

AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION

Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

ACCOUNTING

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. — Psalm 51:10

Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

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EDITORIAL follow Mary @mecrd

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972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063

MEET OUR COVER KID... ISABELLA “BELLA”, 2 YEARS Bella likes to dance, read books and make people laugh. She loves her mom, dad and sissy, but her “Pop” (great grandfather) is her favorite person. They laugh and play together for hours. At school, Bella enjoys story time, playing with Legos and riding bikes.

business spotlight 4

The Shape of Behavior ........ p. 3 & 9

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Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

shouldknow

nurtured by nature

dirt be gone

Camp is more than just goofy games and silly songs

It’s an opportunity for our kids to reconnect with nature. With today’s technological distractions, kids spend much less time outdoors, causing what some call a “nature deficit.” Getting them active outdoors can fill that gap, while promoting a healthy lifestyle that can reduce symptoms associated with attention deficit disorder, depression, and stress. Plus it’s fun to try and learn new things – goofy games and silly songs included!

H2O Most people prefer bottled water over tap. When you compare cost, tap is the sure winner. If you spend $1 on a bottle of water every day, that adds up to $365/ year. You can get the same amount of water from the tap for less than 10 cents. Don’t trust your tap water or like the way it tastes? Consider getting a filter and use a refillable bottle. It’s not only better for your wallet, it’s better for the environment too.

I am...

Keep you and your family healthy this Spring by wiping down these less obvious, but actually very dirty objects. No really. Put down the magazine and go do this now. And then start doing it regularly from here on out.

• The microwave touch pad • The refrigerator handle • Your cell phone • The remote control • The stair banister

Consider a Special Needs Camp for your child and he may come home with a whole new sense of self. This goes along with developing new skills that can build self-esteem. It’s not just about learning the skill; it provides children with a great feeling of accomplishment and success on many levels.

Safety in a snap If you plan to visit a crowded theme park or the like this spring or summer, the first thing you should do when you get there is take a quick pic of each kid before the adventure begins. Then, if, heaven forbid, your child gets lost, you’ll have an accurate visual of what he looks like and what he’s wearing. Or just a great first photo for the scrap book!

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APRIL 2017

questions

q&a Bethany, Mom of 2 Q. Would I go to a Dentist to have my mouth checked for Oral Cancer?

A. When it comes to identifying potential warning signs of oral cancer, dentists are often the first ones to notice any abnormalities. Oral Cancer is one of the fastest growing types of cancer, and there are two ways we can get it – smoking and alcohol and the other is HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Typically, oral cancer screenings are performed during your normal six month dental checkup, which is why you should see your dentist with regular visits each year. If your dentist does not perform an oral cancer screening automatically, Ask For It! Dr. Zamora | Smiles of Las Colinas

Adrienna, Mom of 1 Q. Will my child thrive in a camp specifically for special needs or would a more mainstream camp be preferred?

A. As a parent of a special needs child, it’s difficult to let them have sleepovers or attend camps, not knowing if the other family or camp counselors would be comfortable or capable of taking care of your child. This was the first time ever William was going to be away from home. He was excited, I was anxious. We chose a camp that offered all traditional activities such as: fishing, canoeing, zip lining with the level of care that we would expect if he were at home. I am so thankful that William had this experience. It helped him to become more independent. It helped me to trust that he is okay without me. Thank you Moran Camp Xtreme, it really does make a difference that children can feel at home and not be “different,” while in your care. Wendy Hardeman | William’s mother

Kathy Q. Recently figured out that I was in early Perimenopause, and apparently bloating is a side-effect. Is there a plan to reduce the discomfort of this? A. Discomforts during perimenopause, which includes bloating, can be man-

aged through self-help approaches such as regular exercise, healthful food, and enough sleep. Avoiding foods that can induce bloating may help. Cruciferous vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower; although extremely nutritious, can cause bloating; try roasting them and eat a bit less than you would normally. Beans; black beans are less offensive, again, smaller amounts (1/3 cup). When bloated, consider eating cucumbers. They are high in silica, caffeic acid (the skin part), and vitamin C, which can reduce swelling and aid in the prevention of water retention. So, just like cucumber helps your eyes de-puff, it will help your stomach de-bloat, too. Mary Ellen | Editor/Dietitian

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AMELIA, MOM OF 1

ASKS...

My child has recently been diagnosed with autism, where do I begin? A. First, know that you are not alone. Start by finding a functional medicine doctor that will work with you to seek out the root cause of your child’s issues and treat autism as a whole body condition; not just mask the symptoms. Next, investigate an allergen-free diet (such as the gluten-free, casein free diet) and work with your doctor to develop a supplement protocol to meet your child’s unique nutritional needs. Most kids with autism have food intolerances and nutritional deficiencies. Addressing these early-on will help them focus better, be more present in school, and aid the benefits of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. From there, your doctor can help develop a customized treatment plan that will be most beneficial for your child. GenerationRescue.org

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welovethis

win

Enter for a chance to win these goodies @ suburbanparent.com

PICK ME UP 1

Any mom with a car full of kids will appreciate this. Order your groceries online, choose a timeslot, and then go pick them up. Your order will be loaded right into your car.

1 Traveling Dogs

OR... You can make a list, get everyone dressed, find a parking spot, dodge the moving cars in the lot, herd your crew through the store, stand in line to check out, buckle the kids back in the car, catch your cart that rolled away, load your own groceries and go home. Your choice.

Playing with Wikki Stix® is a tactile and sensory experience, and they’re great for developing fine motor skills and kinesthetic learning. Playing with Wikki Stix® is also good for the autism spectrum. Starting at $3.95. wikkistix.com

2 SentioCHEWS

Spray juice directly from any citrus fruit with the press of a finger. No more squirting juice in your eye or getting seeds in your salad. Just insert the nozzle into the fruit and squirt. Brilliance! TIP – Roll the fruit on the counter first, to get the juices flowing. bedbathandbeyond.com, $4.99

Wearable Sensory Tools for kids, teens and adults that chew and fidget. This set of chewable necklaces with popular paracord breakaway lanyards is a favorite! Find them at kidcompanions.com, $17.50

3 No Mess Fun

For a secured traveling pooch! Crash-tested, Tru-Fit Harness keeps dogs secure in the car. Also functions as a walking harness. Great for walking and has an extra ring that helps control dogs who pull. Starting at $29.99. We found it at thegrommet.com

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4 Citrus Spray

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tamarasearsphotography.com

bookshelf

mind reading Our mind is a muscle that needs to be exercised. One way to grow your mind is to read, which also improves language skills.

The Legend of the Sand Dollar

A newly illustrated edition that will renew the wonder and charm of the original and timeless tale. This classic is brought to life for a new generation by telling the story of Kerry, as her cousin, Jack, reveals to her the deeper meaning of Easter hidden within something as small as a sand dollar. This Easter tale reminds everyone everywhere that when Jesus died for us and was resurrected, he promised hope for all. Chris Auer Ages: 2-14

How Autism Is Reshaping Special Education

A valuable overview of special education’s successes and shortfalls. In their groundbreaking new book, the authors explain how four major events have transpired since the last reauthorization of IDEA : the increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism, the rise of applied behavior analysis, the birth of social media, and the reality of unbundling. Mark K. Claypool & John M. McLaughlin Ages: Parents

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The Plans I Have For You Holy Bible

Adults aren’t the only ones who find themselves wondering and worrying about the future; even children desire reassurance that God has great plans for them. This Bible helps readers journey through the Bible paying special attention to Gods promises. There is even Promise Prayers that guide readers to ask God to help them fulfill his plans for them. So look for these uplifting versus abut God’s promises that are highlighted throughout the Bible, ready to delight the reader with encouragement! Notes by Amy Parker Ages: Tweens to Teens

Pearla and her Unpredictable Perfect Day Some days are unpredictable! This is a scrumptious tale for children aged 4-12, particularly those who experience anxiety or developmental issues. It demonstrates that you can’t succeed unless you try and that it’s ok to make mistakes. Pearla’s strategies for solving her problems will help children to overcome their own hurdles. Rochel Lieberman

ages 4-12

2017 Registration is now open! â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sessions provide a perfect setting for your child to learn about appropriate animal care.â&#x20AC;?

Sessions are for children between 8-11 years old. Weekly Camp Cost is $260

Call 214-461-1811

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BY ASHLEY TALMADGE

kids with special d e e n needs camptoo S

ending a child to summer camp for the first time can make any parent nervous. But worries are often magnified for parents of kids with special needs. Images of sunlit lakes and carefree campers are often trumped by concerns about behavior, communication, and physical safety. Stacy, whose daughter has high functioning autism, remembers the weeks leading up to Fia’s first overnight camp experience as a 10-year-old. “I was a wreck!” she admits. “But we prepared well, and in the end I trusted the counselors to take care of her.” Children with physical, cognitive, or medical challenges often don’t get many opportunities to navigate the world without a parent close by. Kids, with special needs, benefit from summer camp in two major ways, according to Cynthia Adkins, Director of TIRR Foundation/Moran Camp Xtreme is a program

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of TIRR Foundation which serves children with physical and developmental disabilities. “Time away from families increases their independence, she says, and as they meet other campers, their social connections expand.” Parents benefit too. After a positive camp experience, a parent is both more aware of what a child can do for himself, and more comfortable allowing others to assist when needed. Research indicates there are other benefits. Because many camps cater to specific needs, children can learn new social, physical, academic, or self-care skills. “Interacting with others who share similar challenges lets a child’s self-esteem and confidence blossom”, says Adkins. And for some kids, camp provides a welcome respite from routine-packed schedules and visits to therapists. Stacy’s worries evaporated when she picked Fia up after the session. “I could just

see in her face that she’d had a great time.” And that was just the beginning, as Fia continues to have wonderful camp experiences each summer. Experts, like Adkins, say that by planning well and following a few simple guidelines, you and your special needs child can reap the rewards of summer camp.

DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT

Camps come in all flavors. In fact, the American Camp Association (ACA) states that “47 percent of camps offer specialized programs for individuals with disabilities.” Is your child ready for overnight camp? Or would a day camp suit her needs? Inclusive camps allow special needs kids to participate in activities with typical peers by making accommodations. Disability-specific camps hire staff trained to meet unique needs—visual impairment, autism, diabetes, severe allergies. Traditional camps offer tried-and-true activities like swimming, boating, crafts, and campfires. Specialty camps may focus on technology, sports, or the arts. Therapeutic camps offer interventions targeting speech/language, behavioral, and/or physical therapy goals. And combinations abound.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

When deciding about camp, get recommendations from teachers and service providers who know your child is valuable. Look at camp materials online, read brochures, and watch videos. Has the camp been accredited by the ACA, or received recognition from a reputable organization? Make sure the camp’s philosophy is a match for your family. Would your child do better in a competitive or cooperative atmosphere? Are you looking for a specific religious affiliation? Look at the physical layout of the camp and notice any potential problems.

ASK QUESTIONS AND GET COMFORTABLE

Speak with the director and counselors who will be working with your child. Questions include: What is the staff-to-camper ratio? What training do counselors receive? What is the turn-over rate for staff? Camps where staff members return summer after summer tend to offer more stability and consistency. Is there medical staff on site 24/7, and where is the nearest hospital? How are special diets handled? How will I communicate with my child during the session? How are behavioral issues addressed? Be forthright and honest in describing your child’s challenges. Does the staff seem willing and competent to handle these specific issues?

PREPARE YOUR CHILD

Talk about camp and the activities he’ll get to try. Ask what he’s looking forward to, as well as what makes him nervous. Role playing potential social situations helps some kids feel more confident. Before attending overnight camp, you may want to arrange a sleepover with a friend or family member. In addition, go to the open house event if possible. It’s a good way for a child to become familiar with the setting and the staff, and to meet other campers.” If a family can’t attend the open house, maybe schedule a tour, in person or online.

THINK ABOUT FUNDING

Camps can be expensive, but families of children with special needs have options if they plan ahead. Many camps offer full and partial scholarships. Some churches and fraternal organizations (e.g. Lions Club, Rotary Club) may sponsor a child at a specific camp. If there is a proven need for continued education services over the summer, some school districts will pay for a camp that targets your child’s IEP goals. And if your child is receiving therapeutic interventions at camp, your medical insurance may cover some of the cost. SP Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer and mother of two boys. She enjoys writing about the many facets of parenthood, and her articles have appeared in dozens of parenting publications across the U.S. and Canada.

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25 Things to Do Before They’re Grown 6

Swim in the ocean. Or at least wade in up to your knees and feel the rocking motion of the waves.

BY LARA KRUPICKA

Sleep out under the stars. Pitch a tent or just drag blankets and sleeping bags out into your yard.

Pick apples, blueberries or another fruit. Enjoy eating produce right from the source.

Take them to meet a favorite author or sports star.

Have a Silly String fight. Launch a sneak attack, but leave an arsenal in plain sight for them to retaliate. Then take what you’ve dished out.

This winter, drive around at night looking at holiday lights. To make it extra enchanting, take them out in their pajamas and give them hot cocoa for the ride.

Build a sand castle. Or create a sand sculpture - turtles and snakes are easy.

Visit a lighthouse. Take a picture while you’re there.

Carve a pumpkin. Encourage your kids to grab out the seeds with their fingers and get up to their elbows scooping out the gooey flesh.

Let them make you dinner - by themselves. Even if it’s PB&J sandwiches.

Serve in a soup kitchen or homeless shelter.

Eat ice cream sundaes for dinner. Include fresh fruit like strawberries and bananas among the toppings to make it “more healthy.”

Teach them how to waltz. Or hip hop or line dance. Get out some music and show them your moves.

Go on special dates, just parent and child. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It’s about one-onone time.

you choose to do, soak up each moment. It might not slow down time, but it will capture memories!

Attend a funeral. Then talk about life, death and the future.

Catch lightning bugs. In your hands or in a jar. Have a contest to see who can collect the most.

Whatever

Go to a theme park. Ride the roller coasters and eat cotton candy.

Own a pet (fish, bird, dog, cat, lizard).

Attend a major sporting event in your city - baseball, football, hockey. Cheer loudly. Enjoy the energy of being surrounded by your fellow fans.

et’s face it, our years with children under our roofs slip past us when we’re not paying attention. Suddenly we find ourselves with preschoolers, then grade-schoolers, and pretty soon teens. We do our best to make the most of these years, but sometimes it helps to know we aren’t missing out on our children’s childhood by engaging it full on. With that in mind, here are twenty-five activities to get in before taking them to college.

Climb a mountain or go to the top of a skyscraper. Then take in the view from up high.

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Plant flowers. Give them a garden trowel and invite them to dig in the dirt with you..

Make and take a meal to a shut-in neighbor or friend - together.

Go on a picnic. Grab an old blanket, make up some sandwiches and hit the park or beach for an old-fashioned outdoor meal.

Take them to a big concert event. Whether it’s kid music or classical, give them exposure to a live performance.

Try skiing - water, cross country, or downhill.

214-361-KIDS (5437)

8305 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 225, Dallas, Texas 75231

www.starKIDSdentist.com

Barrie Barber Choate DDS, MSD, PA

www.facebook.com/starKIDSdentist

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dinnertime

spaghetti squash boats Sometimes us moms have to get creative to feed our family. Oh the joy when a meal is loved.

Well, these Roasted Spaghetti Squash Boats are one of those meals. Fun to eat right out of the “Boat” and colorful too. You don’t have to tell them how nutritious it is! And good news, takes under an hour to prepare.

What you need... - 1 spaghetti squash, halved (one squash feeds two) - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander - 1/4 teaspoon ground Ancho chile powder - Juice from 1/2 lime, plus more for the topping - 1 cup of black beans, warmed - 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese - 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro - 1/4 cup pico de gallo

Recipe Credit: Adrianna Adarme of Fresh Tastes

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What you do...

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment and place the spaghetti squash, face-side down. Roast for 30 to 35 minutes, until tender. Flip over and remove the seeds with a pair of tongs and discard.

Using the tongs shred the spaghetti squash until it’s all fluffy and the strands are separated. Sprinkle both halves of spaghetti squash with the cumin, coriander, salt and lime juice. Give it a good toss. Divide the black beans amongst the halves of spaghetti squash and give it one last toss. Top with the cheese and return to the oven to bake until the cheese has melted, about 5 to 7 minutes. Top with cilantro and pico de gallo. ENJOY!

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timeout community calendar | april 2017

1 | SATURDAY FW Zoo Run

7:30am. Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, www.fortworthzoo.org

White Rock Market

8am-1pm. Stop by for local produce, meats, eggs, honey, baked goods, artisan foods and arts & crafts. Good Local Markets, 9150 Garland Rd., Dallas www. goodlocalmarkets.org

North Dallas Toy Show

9am-3pm. Guests will find all types of collectibles. More than 70 vendor tables to browse. Dallas Events Center, 4343 Sigma Road Suite 600, Dallas 214-358-3628 www.dallas-events-center.com

Rodeo Parade

10am. The 60th annual Mesquite Rodeo Parade will wind through downtown Mesquite with horses, bands, and floats. Downtown Mesquite, www. cityofmesquite.com

ATMOS Energy Presents Chinese Storytime with Linda Li!

10:30am. Storytime told in Mandarin Chinese and English led by Linda Li of the Park Cities

Chinese School. NorthCourt@ NorthPark Center, Dallas 214671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

Family Experiments

11am. Families can join educators from the Perot Museum for fun family experiments in Klyde Warren Park. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rogers Freeway, Dallas 214-716-4500 www. klydewarrenpark.org

ATMOS Energy Presents Jamming With Jason

11-11:30am. Join former Kidville entertainer and the voice of Clifford the Big Red Dog theme song in an upbeat yet down to earth musical storytelling session. NorthCourt@NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

Family Fun Day

11am-1:30pm. Celebrate our new outdoor playscape with Downtown Dallas Inc. Family Fun activities. Dallas Farmers Market, North Side, 920 Harwood Street, Dallas 214-664-9110 www. dallasfarmersmarket.org

Gun Fights at the Village

12pm. Witness early Dallas law and order, settler style, on the

Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Main Street. Free with admission: Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park, 1515 S. Harwood St., Dallas 214-421-5141 www. dallasheritagevillage.org

Old Time Music Jam

2pm. Tap your toes, clap your hands and join in the Old Time Music Jam. Free with admission. Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park, 1515 S. Harwood St., Dallas 214-421-5141 www. dallasheritagevillage.org

ATMOS Energy Presents ACME Magic with Brett Roberts

2-2:30pm. Wild and crazy magic show based on cartoons: portable holes, giant magnets and sticks of dynamite. NorthCourt@ NorthPark Center, Dallas 214671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

Family Friendly Comedy Show

6pm. Improv, sketch and standup comedy. Shows 5 nights a week and classes available. Dallas Comedy House, 3025 Main St, Dallas 214-741-4448 www. dallascomedyhouse.com

ATMOS Energy Presents Chinese Storytime with Linda Li!

10:30am. This storytime will be told in Mandarin Chinese and

8 A id 9 on Maan rch 26

Julia 3 on April 20

R o y c eil 2 5 pr 8 on A

UPLOAD YOUR BIRTHDAY KIDS PICTURE @ suburbanparent.com Submit by 10th of the month PRIOR to their birthday.

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English and will be led by Linda Li of the Park Cities Chinese School. NorthCourt between Macy’s & Nordstrom, NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www. dallaslibrary2.org

ATMOS Energy Presents Jamming With Jason

11-11:30am. Join former Kidville entertainer and the voice of Clifford the Big Red Dog theme song in an upbeat yet down to earth musical storytelling session. NorthCourt between Macy’s & Nordstrom, NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www. dallaslibrary2.org

ATMOS Energy Presents ACME Magic with Brett Roberts

2-2:30pm. Wild and crazy magic show based on cartoons. This show is full of portable holes, giant magnets and sticks of dynamite. NorthCourt between Macy’s & Nordstrom, NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

2 | SUNDAY Day Out With Thomas: The Friendship Tour 2017 9am. Bring the entire family to enjoy this special opportunity to take a ride with the classic storybook engine at regional heritage railroads across the country. Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 709 S. Main St., Grapevine 817-410-3123 www. grapevinetexasusa.com

Family Event at Dallas Zoo

12-2pm. Private event in pavilion. Register online at www.froglinks. com. Dallas Zoo, 600 S. R.L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas dallaszoo.com

DFW Rescue Me Adoption at Pottery Barn 12-3pm. Bring home a new member of the family. Galleria Dallas, 972-702-7100 www. galleriadallas.com

Tomas and the Library Lady

1:30pm. This beautiful bilingual play follows the life of young Tomás and his family, who are migrant workers who move constantly to find new work picking farmers’ crops. Dallas Children’s Theater / Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938 Skillman St., Dallas 214-978-0110 www.dct.org

3 | MONDAY Homeschool Day at the Zoo 9am-3pm. A day especially for homeschooling families! Hands on STEM activities community partner activity booths & zoo admission. Dallas Zoo, 650 RL Thornton Freeway, Dallas 469554-7300 www.dallaszoo.com

Dallas Blooms: Flower Power 9am-5pm. The Southwest’s largest spring floral festival. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas 214-515-6500 www. dallasarboretum.org

Baby Basics Storytime in Downtown Dallas

10:30am. Ages Up to 18mos. For babies and their caregivers, learn simple rhymes, songs and books to stimulate infants. Dallas Central Library, 1515 Young St., Dallas 214670-1400 www.dallaslibrary.org

Crafty Mondays

10:30am. Enjoy nature-themed crafts with your children. Included with admission. Texas Discovery Gardens - Fair Park, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas 214-428-7476 www. texasdiscoverygardens.org

ReBIRTH Prepared Childbirth Refresher

6:30-9pm. This class is designed for parents who have already had at least one delivery whether vaginal or cesarean. North Dallas Doula Associates, 107 Murray Street, Dallas 469-360-3810 www. northdallasdoulas.com

4 | TUESDAY Whole Kids Story & Craft Time

10am. Ages 3-6yrs. Bring the kids for a fun hour of crafts, stories & healthy snacks! Whole Foods Park Lane, 8080 Park Lane, Suite 770 Dallas www.shopsatparklane.com

Home School Nature Class

10-11am. Ages 5 & Up. Join a naturalist for a esson, nature walk and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. Preregistration required. Elmer W. Oliver Nature Park, 1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield www.mansfieldtx.gov

Bilingual/ Spanish Storytime (Horas de Cuentos)

10:30am. Ages Up to 6yrs. Stories, songs and rhymes in Spanish to

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timeout get ready to read! Lakewood Branch Library, 6121 Worth Street, Dallas 214-670-1376 www.dallaslibrary.org

5 | WEDNESDAY American Girl Let’s Get Crafty

4-6pm. Ages 8 & Up. Join us for a fun and free craft! American Girl, 13464 Dallas Parkway, 877-2475223 www.americangirl.com

Pajama Campout Playtime

6:30-7:30pm. Join Camp Dallas West for an hour-long pajama “campout” inside the library. Wear your most comfy pajamas and be prepared to sing songs, read stories, make crafts, and take part in other camp-inspired activities. This venue is wheelchair accessible. Dallas West Branch Library, 2332 Singleton Blvd, Dallas 214-6706445 www.dallaslibrary2.org

6 | THURSDAY Bilingual/ Spanish Storytime (Horas de Cuentos) 10:30am. Ages Up to 6 yrs. Stories, songs and rhymes in Spanish to get ready to read! Lakewood Branch Library, 6121 Worth Street, Dallas, 214-6701376 www.dallaslibrary.org

First Thursday Late Nights

7-9pm. Feel the power of discovery through electrifying experiments and activities exploring light, electricity, currents and circuits. Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas 214-4285555 www.perotmuseum.org

7 | FRIDAY 11th Annual Dallas International Film Festival

All Day. This is your chance to view films that have garnered critical acclaim at the Sundance, Toronto and New York Film Festivals among others. The fan-favorite Texas Competition returns this year, focusing on home-grown filmmaking talent through films produced and shot in Texas. Mockingbird Station, 5307 Mockingbird Ln, Dallas www.mockingbirdstation.com

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Deep Ellum Arts Festival

7pm. Stroll through displays of cutting-edge decorative arts. Sculptors, muralists, jewelers, painters, leather and wood crafters, and other specialized fine artists, some creating on the spot. www.deepellumartsfestival.com

8 | SATURDAY Walk MS

8:30am. Walk MS is an opportunity for people living with MS and those who care about them to connect, join together, and be inspired. Addison Circle Park, 4970 Addison Cir Addison 800-344-4867

Breakfast With the Bunny

8:30-10:30am. Breakfast is $5 per person for ages 2 & Up. Free egg hunt and other activities may have cost. Evans Recreation Center, 1116 Hillcrest St., Mesquite 972-216-6260 www. cityofmesquite.com

Colorpalooza

10am-5pm. Spring festival with interactive events for children, including inflatable play structures and creative arts and crafts stations. Old Town Lewisville, 617 E. Main Street, Lewisville 972-219-3401 www. lewisvillecolorpalooza.com Sponsored by Suburban Parent magazines

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Opening Weekend 10am-6pm. Sat & Sun. Opening weekend of the seasonal festival that runs through Memorial Day, May 29. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www.srfestival.com

BEEP Event: 17th Annual Beeping Easter Egg Hunt for the Blind

10am-12:30pm. For visually impaired children, their sighted siblings, cousins and family friends to participate in the egg hunt along with other fun activities. Sponsored by the Dallas Junior Chamber of Commerce. Lake Highlands Family YMCA, 8920 Stults Rd., Dallas www. dallasjuniorchamber.com

Eggs-cellent Eggstravaganza

10am-noon. Don’t forget your basket! Dallas Parks & Rec hosts citywide Egg Hunt. Locations: Kiest Recreation Center, 3080 S. Hampton Rd, Dallas 214-6701918; Crawford Memorial Park, 8700 Elam Rd., 214-670-0959; Grauwyler Rec Center, 7780 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas 214-6706302 www.dallasparks.org

Park Cities Historic and Preservation Society’s Annual Classic and Antique Car Show

decorating activity. American Girl 13464 Dallas Parkway, Dallas 877247-5223 www.americangirl.com

9 | SUNDAY Community Brunch: Farmers Market Edition hosted by Savor Dallas

10:30am-1:30pm. Stop by to sample remarkable brunch dishes, chat with the chefs, artisans and farmer’s market vendors. Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood St., Dallas www. savordallas.com

10am-4pm. Burleson Park, 3000 University Blvd., Dallas 214-5280021 www.pchps.org

10 | MONDAY

Discovery Days

Easter Bunny at Grapevine Mills

10am-4pm. All ages. Celebrate the Earth and upcoming Earth Day as we explore earth science and green science. Perot Museum, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas 214-428-5555 www. perotmuseum.org

Weekend Marionette Shows 11am-2pm. Fun with a few strings attached! Giftshop and concessions open one hour before show time. Gepetto’s Marionette Theater, Inside the Hilton Anatole, 2201 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas 469-442-1925 www. geppettostheater.com

Dallas Royal Princess Ball

1:15-3pm. A one of a kind event with stage performances, an etiquette lesson, singing, dancing, stories, craft tables, photo opportunities and more! Double Tree Hotel DallasCampbell Centre, 8250 N. Central Expy, Dallas 651-494-4566 www. dreampartyforyou.com

GRRNT Easter Egg Hunt

1-3pm. This annual eggstravaganza is tons of fun for the whole family, including those with fur! All well behaved and friendly dogs welcome. All proceeds benefit the Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas. NorthBark Dog Park, 4899 Grammercy Oaks Drive, Dallas www.goldenretrievers.org

WellieWishers Friendship Tea Party

3-4pm. Parties include a special menu, crafts, fun and a cupcake

10am-8pm. When you visit The Bunny, no words are needed. He’s fluent in smiles and hugs! He’ll be waiting for you at Converse courtyard. Grapevine Mills, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine 972-724-4900 www. grapevinemills.com

11 | TUESDAY Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed

10am. The largest traveling exhibition about the Maya to ever tour the US. Perot Museum, 2201 N. Field St, Dallas www. perotmuseum.org

12 | WEDNESDAY BOGO Wednesdays at the Arboretum 9am-5pm. Buy One Get One Free at the Ticket Booth! Does not include parking. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas 214-515-6615 www. dallasarboretum.org

13 | THURSDAY Easter Bunny at Grapevine Mills

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timeout Nature Adventurers

10-11:30am. Ages 2-6 yrs. Hands-on learning opportunity designed especially for preschoolers and an adult partner to introduce them to the naturally fun learning at River Legacy. Space is limited. RSVP. River Legacy Living Science Center, 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington 817-860-6752 www. riverlegacy.org

14 | FRIDAY Bunnies, Eggs, and Baskets, OH MY!

9am-5pm. Get your groove on in the garden with Peace, Love and Blooms, featuring more than 500,000 spring blooming bulbs, florally decorated topiary VW bugs and many activities. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas 214-515-6500 www. dallasarboretum.org

17 | MONDAY Mad Scientist Club

3-4pm. Children come to learn and do some mad science! Arcadia Park Branch Library, 1302 N. Justin Ave, Dallas 214-6706446 www.dallaslibrary2.org

Late Nights at the DMA

1pm. Ages 6-8 yrs. An interactive journey into visual arts, music, theater, humanities, history and basic gardening geared to home school students. Dallas Central Library, 2nd Floor, 1515 Young Street, Dallas 214-670-1400 www.dallaslibrary2.org

6pm-12am. All ages. The Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas 214-922-1200 www.dma.org

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Celtic Weekend

10am-6pm. Sat & Sun. Enjoy special Irish and Scottish performances, bagpipes and testing your fortitude in a number of themed competitions. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www. srfestival.com

Autism/Special Needs Playgroup

5:30-7pm. Join us for a safe, fun, and sensory-friendly play group. This event is entirely free to you. Please RSVP@ shapeofbehavior.com. The Little Gym, Mockingbird & Abrams, 6465 E Mockingbird Ln #400, Dallas 832-358-2655 www. shapeofbehavior.com

Spina Bifida Easter Egg Hunt

6-8pm. Sponsored by RISE Adaptive Sports. Contact Wendy Harvey to make reservations: harvey4@sbcglobal.net Texas Rite Scottish Hospital For Children, 2222 Welborn St., Dallas APRIL 2017 Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent

Dallas Blooms: Flower Power

9am-5pm. Make rabbit ear headbands and weave a natural basket; Scavenge the maze for more adventure and stop by the Plant Lab at for a special egg dying experience using plantbased dyes. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas 214-5156615 www.dallasarboretum.org

15 | SATURDAY

16 | SUNDAY

18 | TUESDAY Dallas Explorers

19 | WEDNESDAY ATMOS Energy Presents Little Bo Peep!

10:30am. Come hear and see the classic tale come to life by storytelling talent Dorayne Breedlove. NorthCourt between Macy’s & Nordstrom, NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

Hands On Science With The Perot Tech Truck 3pm. Join us for Perot Tech science activities. Bachman Lake Library, 9480 Webb Chapel Rd., Dallas 214-670-6376 www. dallaslibrary2.org

20 | THURSDAY SMART: Science Live

4pm. Science is fun, messy and sometimes a little explosive! Join us for experiments that ooze, fly, fizzle and pop. White Rock Hills 9150 Ferguson Road, Dallas 214670-8443 www.dallaslibrary2.org

21 | FRIDAY Earth Day Texas 2017

Come do it all at the world’s largest EcoExpo & Conference showcasing films and emerging media that explore conservation, climate change and the environment. Event runs through Apr 23. Fair Park, Dallas. EarthDayTX.org. See ad in this issue

with a variety of entertainment including the Turkey Leg Eating Contest at 3pm. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www. srfestival.com

Marvelous Moms & Mentors

10am. Library book sale. Preston Royal Branch Library, 5626 Royal Lane, Dallas 214-670-7128 www. dallaslibrary2.org

10-11:30am. During this interactive workshop, we will engage in life-changing conversations about how women have a huge role in how your marvelous girl views friendships, body image and sex. Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 9089 Vantage Point Drive, Dallas 469-317-7429 www. marvelousuniversity.com

22 | SATURDAY

23 | SUNDAY

Alliance Data Red Balloon® Run & Ride

Celebrate Earth Day – Gardening in North Texas

6:30am. The family-friendly event includes a 1K fun run, 5K run, 5K ride/run and supported bike rallies, ranging from 23 to 72 miles. Children’s Health Plano Campus, 7601 Preston Road, Plano www.childrens.com/ runandride

2:30pm. Join Master Gardener Judy Meagher to learn about insects and native plants. Bilingual program presented in English and Spanish. White Rock Hills Library, 9150 Ferguson Road, Dallas 214-670-8443 www. dallaslibrary2.org

Daughter and Mother Camp Congress for Girls Dallas

24 | MONDAY

Preston Royal Friends Annual Book Sale

8am-5pm. Ages 8-15 yrs. Leadership program that introduces girls their moms (or dads) to politics. Renaissance Dallas Hotel, 2222 North Stemmons Freeway, Dallas 202660-1457 www.girlsinpolitics.org

Mad Scientist Club

Champion Parent Workshop

25 | TUESDAY

8:30am-10:15am. This handson, skills-based workshops provides families essential tools for effective communication, problem solving, anger management, parenting and more. TYRO Champion Center, 8500 N Stemmons Freeway, Suite 1050, Dallas 214-426-0900 www. bethechampion.org

Earth Day

9am-5pm. Special guests and programs will be available while guests explore the wonderful EARTH. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas 214-515-6615 www.dallasarboretum.org

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Royal Ale Festival 10am-6pm. Sat & Sun. Enjoy tastings of assorted beer along

Serving the needs of learning different students for 30 years.

3-4pm. Children come to learn and do some mad science! Arcadia Park Branch Library, 1302 N. Justin Ave, Dallas 214-6706446 www.dallaslibrary2.org

SMART: Artful Imaginations

4pm. Learn about different types of art and create your own masterpieces to take home. White Rock Hills 9150 Ferguson Road, Dallas 214-670-8443 www. dallaslibrary2.org

26 | WEDNESDAY ATMOS Energy Presents Music with Maricela!

10:30am. Join us with local talent Maricela Carelock, her electric guitar, and merry puppets as she presents a bilingual musical event. NorthCourt between Macy’s & Nordstrom, NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

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timeout 27 | THURSDAY Tall Tales at Reunion Tower Geo-Deck 11am. Ages 2-5 yrs. Join us on the deck for a fun story and sing along. Reunion Tower, 300 Reunion Blvd., Dallas 214-7127040 www.reuniontower.com

28 | FRIDAY Yogees Yoga 4 Kids

directory CAMP CHAMPIONS................................. 17 830-598-2571 campchampions.com

MORAN CAMP XTREME.......................15 713-877-0488 tirrfoundation.org

CAMP INVENTION.................................... 17 855-235-8656 campinvention.org

PRESTON ROYAL PRESCHOOL......24 214-987-3446 prestonroyalpreschool.com

CAMP KODIAK............................................23 877-569-7595 campkodiak.com

SKY RANCH.................................................. 27 800-962-2267 skyranch.org

CUB CREEK SCIENCE CAMP........... 25 mosciencecamp.com

SPCA..................................................................13 214-461-1811 spca.org/crittercamp

DALLAS ZOO.............................................. 22 dallaszoo.com DESTINATION SCIENCE...................... 22 888-909-2822 destinationscience.org LET’S TALK SPEECH THERAPY.......... 7 214-242-9654 letstalkdallas.com

SPORTSPLEX...............................................24 972-385-5416 dallassportsplex.com THE BEHAVIOR EXCHANGE..............21 972-312-8733 behaviorexchange.com UTD CHESS CAMP...................................13 972-883-4899 utdallas.edu/chess WINSTON SCHOOL....................................9 214-691-6950 winston-school.org

10:30-11am. Ages 2-5 yrs. Bring a yoga mat and meet at NorthCourt@NorthPark Center, 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas 214671-1381 www.dallaslibrary.org

29 | SATURDAY The Art of Nature

9am-5pm. Bring budding artists for a weekend of using the natural beauty of the garden to create stunning works of art. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas 214-515-6615 www. dallasarboretum.org

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Artisan’s Showcase & Deaf Awareness Day 10am-6pm. Sat & Sun. Visit the Artisan’s Showcase tents throughout the festival. Special signed performances throughout the village provided by Hired Hands, Inc. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www. srfestival.com

Cupcakes for a Cause

11am-2pm. Bakeries from all around the DFW area donate and bring cupcakes to the event, and you come to eat the cupcakes for a good cause! Activities include cupcake-eating contests, cupcake decorating, face painting, and more! United Park United Methodist Church, 4024 Caruth Blvd., Dallas leap@leapmissions.org www. cupcakesforacausedallas.org

Cinco de Mayo

See complete Directory online @ suburbanparent.com 26

APRIL 2017 Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent

12-6pm. Family friendly event featuring authentic Mexican

food, a piñata break, jalepeno eating contest, folklorico dancers, bounce houses and more. Paschall Park, 1001 New Market Rd., Mesquite www. cityofmesquite.com

30 | SUNDAY Dog Bowl at the Cotton Bowl 1-5pm. Spoil your four legged friend with an afternoon of doggy delights inside Fair Park’s Cotton Bowl Stadium. The field will transform into a super-sized dog park for canines of all sizes! Fair Park Dallas, 1121 1st Avenue, Dallas www.fairpark.org

save the date

jun

JUN 5-JULY 7 2017 Summer at Winston

Half-day and Full-day camps in academic enrichment, STEM in action, arts, sports and more. 5707 Royal Ln, Dallas 214-6916950 www.winston-school.org. See ad in this issue.

JUN 12-16 2017 Summer Chess Camp at UT Dallas

Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-14. Morning (9am-noon) and afternoon (1-4pm) plus extended playing classes available. Other camps Jun 19-23, Jul 10-14 & Jul 17-21. Register at www.utdallas. edu/chess. See ad in this issue.

JUN 19-29 Summer Camps at Let’s Talk Speech Therapy Camps offered in pre-school articulation, pre-reading, schoolage articulation, and school-age language for ages 3-9. Additional camps run July10-20 and July 24-Aug3. 5470 W. Lovers Ln, Ste 333A, Dallas. camp@ letstalkdallas.com 214-242-9654 www.letstalkdallas.com. See ad in this issue.

Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates & times, confirming with the event venue before going is always a good idea.

- A D V E R TO R I A L -

funstuff

nature hunt

A Scavenger Hunt in nature is a great way to get your kids connected with the outdoors! What you need...

GOTTA

LOVE ‘EM My daughter, at the age of 5 was reading a book about famous people. She came downstairs wearing my large sunglasses and lip stick. She said, “I’d like a glass of water please, with 5 ice cubes, no more - no less.” I said, “and whom do you think you are?” She replied, I’m a cele-brity. — This editor’s daughter, Caroline

q Scavenger hunt list printed out q Small bucket or bag for found objects q Pencil or crayon and Clipboard

Collect the following... q A blade of grass longer than q A twig longer than your index finger your thumb q An acorn cap q A pine cone q A leaf on the ground

q A few pine needles

Describe and note location of the following... q Moss on side of building __________________________ q Fungi _________________________________________ q A spider or signs of one ___________________________ q An ant hill ______________________________________ excerpted from www.nwf.org

Get this Scavenger hunt list online @ suburbanparent.com/nature-hunt

words of wisdom

robin williams Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!”

You kidding me?

Why can’t you iron a four-leaf clover? Because you shouldn’t press your luck!

When is an Irish potato not an Irish potato? When it’s a French fry!

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win

Enter for a chance to win these goodies @ suburbanparent.com

PICK ME UP AT WAL-MART

Any mom with a car full of kids will appreciate this. Order your groceries online, choose a timeslot, and then go pick them up. Your order will be loaded right into your car.

1 Traveling Dogs

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Like free stuff? See what goodies we love this month and enter for a chance to win.

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Happy Easter

¿Niño excepcional? Chequea los eventos en el calendario ¡No te pierdas nada!

Felices Pascuas

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Wearable Sensory Tools for kids, teens and adults that chew and fidget. This set of chewable necklaces with popular paracord breakaway lanyards is a favorite! Find them at kidcompanions.com, $17.50

You can make a list, get everyone dressed, find a parking spot, dodge the moving cars in the lot, herd your crew through the store, stand in line to check out, buckle the kids back in the car, catch your cart that rolled away, load your own groceries and go home. Your choice.

3 No Mess Fun

SEE WHAT WE LOVE THIS MONTH!

BE A SCAVENGER!

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CHECK OUT OUR TIME-OUT EVENTS! #dontmissathing

SEE WHAT WE LOVE THIS MONTH!

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CHECK OUT OUR TIME-OUT EVENTS! #dontmissathing

SEE WHAT WE LOVE THIS MONTH!

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wholesomeending

kids meal We know getting kids to eat can be difficult; because kids can be so finicky with foods. You may hear,”no, I won’t eat this” often.

It’s even more difficult for families with special needs children. There are issues with texture, temperature and even the color of food that simply takes their appetite away. Parents worry about the nutrition intake and if it’s enough to support their health and growth needs.

So we hope some of these tricks of the trade are helpful for your family.

• Consider talking about the foods and why they are important to their bodies before plating the meal. • With the difficult foods, simply changing one thing, like the temperature, may make it acceptable. • Encourage your child to play with foods to get used to them, especially if the picky eater seems to be sensory-based. • Get your child involved with food preparation. Kids are more likely to try things if they help prepare the meal. • Peer pressure can be a good thing! Invite friends to come eat a meal with your family. • Share the food you are eating with your child, along with a food your child usually eats. • Have a consistent routine at mealtime so your child knows what to expect.

Food for thought You wouldn’t think so, but some vegetables are actually more nutritious coming from the freezer section than the produce section. Frozen fruits and veggies are usually picked when they’re ripe and flash frozen to preserve nutrients. Fresh vegetables are often picked before their ripe to allow for travel time and to look fresh on the stands when they get there. The best scenario would be to eat fresh veggies picked at their peak ripeness (think farmer’s markets). Regardless which you choose, just eat ‘em. They’re good for you either way.

tip For the health of it Studies show that movement based therapies (i.e. exercise) for kids with autism don’t just improve motor skills, they may also improve social communication, attention, behavioral issues and performance on academic tasks. Studies don’t show exactly how or what kinds of exercise are best, but the evidence is there. Exercise is good.

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mess free

Oatmeal expands when cooked. Using a larger bowl will prevent any overflows and messes!