Dallas Parent, September 2017

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SEPTEMBER 2017 | FREE suburbanparent.com

inform | educate | inspire

TM

PARK CITIES | PRESTON HOLLOW | LAKEWOOD | AND MORE

the back to school issue

Beyond Books 20 THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT THE LIBRARY

TEACH YOUR KIDS TO

“WALK THIS WAY”

USE YOUR WORDS! ENCOURAGE EXPRESSIVENESS IN YOUR KIDS VOCABULARY

SEE OUR BOOKSHELF DO YOU HAVE A “FLIBBERTIGIBBET?

9/30/2017.

maryshares

Hello...

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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

W

ell it’s Back to School season already. And I still have an at-home office over-run with my daughter’s school stuff from her freshman year.

As a parent, I can tell you that my kids have both enjoyed their away time this summer. My daughter went to camp and was mentored by loving young women and men, who shared their faith with her and gave glory to God for everything, including the mud on the ground and the hot Texas air. She has been going to the same camp with the same friend since 3rd grade. She had a blast and always comes home filled with the love of God and an awareness that I can’t describe. She seems older and dare I say, wiser. My son had multiple events, including several friends’ weddings (yes, 20-somethings!) He also spent 6-weeks in sunny Florida at Ave Maria University learning about the missionary work he will be doing for FOCUS on campus for his senior year at TX A&M, and two years following, at another university, that we don’t know yet.

My husband and I would find ourselves sitting close in front of his laptop to search the hundreds of photos posted from camp leaders looking for our girl.

(She’s a red-head, so easily found!) Each picture of her reassured us that she was safe and having fun. But with that, these photos also told us another story. Mostly, that she is growing up. Then we would wait for the nightly posting or images sent to us as updates from our son. He too is now a mature 21 year old and an amazing young man that we are so proud of.

My husband and I are not living vicariously through our children (we did enjoy our time alone too), we are living along-side them, even when they are away, and we always will be. Reflecting on the amount of love we feel for our children, and how we can become overwhelmed and filled with great joy, by simply looking at a photo or reading an evening post, I am reminded that our love for our children is but a mere reflection of God’s love for us. Hmm, I wonder if God is noticing I am getting older and maybe wiser.

Parenting is a privilege bestowed on us and comes with rewards. Mine came in a large trunk filled with sweaty clothes, and a payment due request from our credit card! I couldn’t feel more blessed.

We love because he first loved us.

1 John 4:19

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Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR Francie Morin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pam Molnar Kathryn Streeter

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MEET OUR COVER KID... CALAH, 8 YEARS OLD Calah has been an actress since she was 4. When acting, she enjoys travelling and staying at different hotels. Her favorite place so far is New York. When she grows up, she wants to be a writer, a movie-maker or a chef. She has two siblings, Mark (1) and Caeli-Rose (4).

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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.

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shouldknow mid-life running

walk this way

smile.

Now that school is back in session...

We need to watch out for the kids walking to and from school or the bus stop. At the same time, they need to be watching out for us! Hopefully there’s a sidewalk, but if there’s not, remind your student to walk on the edge of the left side of the road. That way they can clearly see cars coming toward them. Be safe out there everyone!

FAMILY + COOKING Cooking together is a great family activity.

When cooking with our children, we can teach them how to choose healthy foods and make them taste good. Cooking also teaches patience, responsibility, gratitude, independence and teamwork. Not to mention a little reading, math and science too. Cooking together is also a wonderful way to bond while passing down family traditions. What’s on the menu tonight?

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We always thought so, but now we know for sure. Smiles are contagious. Research explains that our brains actually make us mimic all facial expressions when we see them in order to understand what others are feeling. Then we’re able to respond to each other appropriately. It’s an instinctive form of communication. So even if we’re not particularly happy, seeing a smile will make us smile. And smiling makes us feel happy. Kinda cool, huh?

gratitude

Think it’s too late to start running? Think again. New research shows that while elite runners peak at 35, average or late blooming runners won’t peak until 50. Basically, we have more gas left in our tanks, if you will.

So, even if our physical peak has passed, there’s still plenty in there to push ourselves later in life. We do have to be smart about our training though. And take recovery time seriously. Try a running app for beginners and see what happens.

journaling]

By now you’ve heard about the benefits of keeping a gratitude journal – like better sleep, lowered stress, more happiness, even less illness. But what’s so important about writing our thoughts down instead of just thinking them? Gratitude expert and psychology professor, Robert Emmons, explains that writing things down makes us more aware of them and deepens their emotional impact. He also says not to hurry when journaling, but to “relish” the depth of your gratitude. You can journal anywhere, anytime, on anything. You don’t have to get fancy. And of course, there are apps for that.

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questions

q&a P.J., MOM OF 5 BOYS

Carmen, mom of toddler Q. How does a Montessori education benefit younger children?

A. Montessori education is based on a deep understanding of young children’s development and is a program that meets the specific needs of that development.

This means that everything that happens in a Montessori classroom has a purpose and supports the development of executive functioning skills, independence, concentration, self-control, respect for others, and compassion and empathy. As well, the learning materials allow children to explore and discover key concepts in their world – whether it is in science and nature, language, math or their place in the culture of their community – the children are exposed to key academic concepts in a way that matches their development. A Montessori child discovers they have the ability to learn whatever they want to know, and have the tools to accomplish it.

Peggy Larson | Director of Early Childhood Programs | Alcuin School

Anita, mom of 2 littles Q. What is the benefit of Heart Rate Inverval Training?

A. The benefit of heart rate based high intensity interval training is the scientifically backed strategy for improving your health, building lean muscle, burning fat, and increasing your endurance. Since your workout is based on your own heart rate, most are able to stay within their limits of a safe workout and will continue to see improvements as their body continually becomes more conditioned. This way a high performing athlete can work alongside someone who is just getting started on their fitness journey, and still get the same benefits of the workout.

Hilary Vitale | Marketing Manager | Orangetheory Fitness North Texas

Maddie, mom of 2 Q. How do I keep a good relationship with my daughter during the teen-years?

A. I remember reading about The Mother Daughter Project. It showed that girls really do long for a good relationship with their mothers, especially for the love and support mothers provide. It showed that as teens grow up through adolescence, they look beyond their immediate families to discover who they are and how the world works. That’s why it’s best for mothers to forge close relationships with teen daughters in conjunction with other mothers and girls who value the same thing.

Make time to do things together with other Moms with daughters. Your thirteenyear-old might not go to the movies with just you, but she’ll go with a friend, her friend’s mother and you. Plus, teen girls need other adults who can give them a positive vision of themselves and their future and who can open doors for our daughters that we can’t.

Mary Ellen | Editor

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ASKS...

I’m a mom with kids playing in our yard and running through the sprinklers. In addition to EPA-approved insect repellent and protective clothing, what can I do to protect us?

A. You can show pesky mosquitoes who’s boss with tactics to cut their numbers and discourage them from visiting your backyard in the first place! Guard your yard with mosquito traps. Keep your lawn free of puddles, and ask your neighbor to do the same. Check your gutters for clogs, which are wonderful locations for mosquito eggs. Drain flowerpot dishes and all containers in your yard.

Mosquitoes breed in treerot holes, so fill them with sand or cement. Check for leaky faucets (you’ll be surprised how these can go unnoticed!)

BeMosquitoFreeTC.com

www.smallmiraclesacademy.org

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welovethis 1

win

Enter for a chance to win these goodies at winthis@suburban parent.com

3D BACKPACK

BY MADPAX 2 Yeah, don’t be the status quo – stand out from the crowd with this bold, three-dimensional take on the classic book bag. Sizes for the entire family, including a padded laptop compartment. Pricing starts at $31 and up. Find it at madpax.com

1 DreamPad

Back to school just got better! These Therapeutic pillows ensure you and your family get the rest your bodies need. A clinically proven, technologybased solution for reducing stress and improving sleep. Each Dreampad prompts your body to relax, converting music into gentle vibrations only you can hear. Pricing starts at $149 and up. www.dreampadsleep.com

2 ZIPIT’s Beast Box

This is perfect for moms to take along in the car. Kids can keep their small stuff safe inside this sturdy fabric covered case and moms can use it too for makeup, miscellaneous items, a first aid kit and more! The fun colors, patterns, and special designs, make this cute pencil case a sure conversation starter! We found it at

3 Tin Can Robot

Recycle a soda can by turning it into a silly robot that can move! Kit includes all working parts, motor, wheels, arms, googly eyes, and full detailed instructions. The Tin Can Robot teaches basic electrical wiring, battery power, and recycling! Two AAA Batteries required. Find it at www. sensoryuniversity.com, $14.99

4 Family Time Idea – Breakfast!

With all the activities that seem to interfere with dinner time these days, consider having family meals in the morning. It’s the one time of day everyone is home together… and breakfast foods are fun! Plus, it’s the most important meal of the day… right?

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3

ASD

Approved

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www.just-zipit.com, $9.99 (also at Staples and Walmart).

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Let’s Talk about being a GREAT student!

Success in Speech and Language Therapy will lead to success in the classroom!

214-361-KIDS (5437)

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

www.starKIDSdentist.com

Call today! We offer home and school visits too. www.letstalkdallas.com

Barrie Barber Choate DDS, MSD, PA

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11

beyond the books

BY PAM MOLNAR

The library is a free resource found in many communities. While you may associate the library with hardcover and paperback books, library patrons know their local library has so much more to offer. If it has been awhile since you have been to the library, stop in today and get the full experience.

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EBOOKS Many readers have chosen their ereaders over a

paper book. To save money, check out the local library ebook catalog (which you can do online). OverDrive is used by libraries around the globe and offers 2.6 million titles available for check out for free.

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AUDIO BOOKS Audio books are also available through OverDrive or as CD sets to be checked out. Children’s versions at the library usually come with a matching paper book as a great reading aid.

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MUSIC Library collections include a large variety of music on CDs. Emusic is also available through apps like Freegal or Hoopla. It’s a great way to extend you own music library.

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VIDEOS Watch the latest release or binge watch TV shows

you have missed. Videos are available for all ages and genres. Check free DVDs or Blu Rays or watch them via online access through free apps like Hoopla.

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STORY TIME Most libraries offer story time in their children’s section. Kids can listen to the story while you browse

the adult section or parents can sit in, too. Often times, the library arranges a craft to go along with the story.

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library. Some clubs for adults found at your local library may include knitting club, scrabble club, English as second language conversation groups and book clubs for a variety of genres and meeting times.

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SPEAKERS Your local library may schedule speakers to come in and talk about many subjects, like super couponers, historians, tax advisors and small business consultants.

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COMPUTERS Not only do libraries offer free Wi-Fi for your

own devices, they also have computers and printers that you can use onsite. Libraries do charge a small fee per sheet for printing so bring along some pocket change.

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OTHER MEDIA Your local library might also have scanners, fax machines, equipment to convert VHS to DVD, 3-D scanners and printers. Check with the library about any fees associated with use or to reserve space during busy times.

THINGS

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CLUBS There are several clubs that meet through the

we love about the library

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CLASSES Need to brush up on your computer skills?

Check with your local library for free seminars and classes on Microsoft Office, analog converting software or graphics software. While it is not enough to make you an expert, it will help you to get your feet wet.

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GENEALOGY AND LOCAL HISTORY You can research various historical databases, newspapers, archives, military records and more. Libraries often carry memberships to websites like Ancestry.com, Fold 3 or Heritage Quest.

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ONLINE RESOURCES. Online memberships at the

library are not limited to history. Ask your librarian about databases for business, legal, career assistance, medical, investments or to learn a language through Rosetta Stone.

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INTERLIBRARY LOANS If you can’t find it at your library, you can borrow it from another library through interlibrary loans. You can request books, DVDs, CDs, magazines or journals on microfilm. It’s a great resource for research not available online.

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BUSINESS SERVICES Libraries offer services to help you locate a job, freshen up your resume, brush up on your computer, speaking or writing skills. They can even help you to start your own business.

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SCHOOL BOOKS When your child forgets his book at school and the online book is having a glitch, contact your local library to see if they have a copy in their reference section. Some libraries may carry your school district’s books for 1st- 12th grade on a variety of subjects.

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A PLACE FOR THE TEENS Libraries are one of the

many places competing for teen’s attention. Libraries offer designated space for socializing, homework assistance, teen book clubs, writing contests, movie nights, teen clubs like Anime, ACT/SAT prep and video game loans.

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HOMESCHOOL SOURCES With more than 1.7 million homeschooled kids in the U.S. alone, libraries have stepped up to meet their needs. Ask your local library about library events for homeschoolers like daytime speakers, workshops, writing classes, book clubs or exhibits.

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PROGRAMS JUST FOR KIDS In addition to story time, libraries offer crafts, author celebrations like Dr. Seuss’ birthday, puppet shows and more. Kids also have a designated space with lower shelves and comfy spaces to sit. Computer games in the children’s section offer help with grammar, spelling, and math or just for fun.

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BOOK AND DVD SALES Friends of the Library sales allow libraries to cull their collection of multiple copies or slow moving materials. Prices are usually 25 cents to a dollar and go to purchase new books and media.

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WORK SPACES People often come to the library to

get away from the distractions of a home office, work with a tutor or work on group projects. Private rooms are available for small groups or larger community meetings. SP Pam Molnar is a freelance writer, mother of three and frequent visitor to the library.

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Use Your Words!

Encouraging Expressiveness in Children

BY KATHRYN STREETER

A

scuffle erupted in the adjoining room between the two cousins.

The next moment, the sweaty girls, bedecked in matching Disney princess nightgowns, burst into the room to tell the adults what was happening.

My toddler wanted to be the explainer: “Maddy was pulling my hair. I was pulling Maddy’s dress. I was so frustrated!”

Though her tantrum didn’t make me happy, her ability to choose her words did.

I found her word choice reassuring because as a 30-something mom, I was concerned about how to nudge my verbal firstborn toward accurate, expressive language. She was quick, parroting every word dropped around her, enabling her tendency to sass back.

Abandoning all the parenting books and research which effectively contradicted each other, I went the way of the simple, banning dumb, hate and boring. I believed that these particular throw-away words she randomly deployed masked what was going on inside. True feelings required a meatier vocabulary and I hoped banning these overworked words would help nurture robust language.

A few years into my experiment, she first heard the “f-word” on the playground after kindergarten. On our drive home, instead of talking about the monkey bars she’d mastered or what happened in the lunchroom, my daughter wanted to discuss this new word.

Like a piece of candy, she wanted to

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taste it and have more. This experience confirmed my belief that trying to protect kids from bad language—whether of the tsk-tsk-tsk-kids-shouldn’t-say-thesewords garden variety or raw sewage adult variety—is a misguided approach.

I wouldn’t always be there to clap my hands over her ears and protect her from hurtful, ugly words thoughtlessly spewing around her. Words are untamed beasts and the world is a jungle full of them, stalking the elementary schoolyard as much as anywhere.

I was glad I’d pursued a different path years before. I thought it to be better to help my chatterbox daughter learn what to say, not simply what not to say.

“Mom! I hate sunscreen!” Well, I hated this sloppiness. I wanted to force her to use her words to precisely identify emotion and speak more accurately about her experience. So I ask her to slow down. “Use your words. Why don’t you like sunscreen?” What she really meant was that the slimy feel of sunscreen is yucky. Perfect.

My concerns for my child are long-term.

Indiscriminately blurting out words will blunt her ability to be emotionally in tune with herself. Precisely identifying her emotions would promote stronger decisions and build healthier relationships. Understanding her weaknesses and strengths would aid her to unapologetically play up her strengths. In short, I desired her emotional IQ to be as strong as her brain.

The word boring repulses me in a

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different way. I don’t think anyone should be bored. There are certainly tasks that are boring to execute, but sitting around feeling bored? No way.

Teaching my child that “being bored” was utter-nonsense, an agenda item I couldn’t let go of, putting me on the hot seat more than the other words. When she would mumble the b word, I’d produce picture books for reading, notebooks, colored pencils and crayons from my big mom bag. Eventually, she’d lose herself designing mazes or drawing curvy women in fashionable gowns. Or maybe one of her beloved stuffed animals would emerge “talking” out of my pocket in the middle of Trader Joe’s when a meltdown was imminent. I played the role of magician in the short-term.

In time, I reconsidered and made adjustments, gradually phasing myself out as entertainer. I left her to figure it out. Not helping her cope with feelings of boredom would ultimately help her learn resourcefulness, one of life’s most valuable lessons.

As a parent, I often feel bogged down by having to enforce all the rules I set up.

With my early decision to ban just three words, I felt a weird sense of relief, that this was something I could enforce. In return, it was encouraging to watch my child respond.

Three words were doable for both of us. SP

This essay was originally published by ParentMap

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timeout community calendar | september 2017

1 | FRIDAY Arabian Show

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8am. The Arabian show is a show wherein a group of horses with similar training or characteristics compete against each other. Fair Park Coliseum, 1438 Coliseum Drive, Dallas www.fairpark.org

10% Military Discount at Dave and Buster’s

10am-close. Show your valid military ID to get 10% off food and game play for you and up to 4 Guests. Dave and Buster’s, 9450 N Central Expy, Dallas 214-530-1906 www. daveandbusters.com

Twilight Safari Night Hike at the Dallas Zoo

7pm. Explore the fascinating world of animals with a zoo tour, activities, special talks and see the animals up close.

Dallas Zoo, 650 South RL Thornton Freeway, Dallas www.dallaszoo.com

2 | SATURDAY River Adventures

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Kam 5 o n J uy la ly 2 2

9am-12pm. Explore the Great Trinity Forest with our expert

Special Needs Playtime at JumpStreet

9am. Open early for a semi-private event for children who have special needs and their families. For more details, please check the calendar for your closest location at www. gotjump.com

Water Gun Fight

11am-1pm. Kid friendly, no water balloons, play guns only. Dress to get wet! Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rogers Freeway, Dallas www. klydewarrenpark.org

Bubble Performer and Live Music

11am-2pm. Free with paid admission- interactive bubble performance for children on the lawn. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas 214-515-6615 www.dallasarboretum.org

Gleaux Fest

7pm-11pm. Family fun activities and tons of lights. Food trucks, game tucks, laser tag, laser light

show, bounce houses, rock climbing wall and 106.1 KISS FM. Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge, 109 Continental Avenue, Dallas 214-671--9500 www.dallascontinentalbridge.com

3 | SUNDAY Traders Village COMICON

10am-4pm. Special guest artists and The Ninja Turtles will also be appearing on Saturday and Sunday afternoon during COMICON. Traders Village, 360 and Mayfield Rd., Grand Prairie 972-647-2331 www.tradersvillage.com

Pre- Rosh Hashana Crafts Fair

10:30am. A fun, child friendly program with an array of Rosh Hashana themed activities!

The Jewish Community Center of Dallas, 7900 Northaven Road, Dallas 214-506-2563 www.jccdallas.org

4 | MONDAY Daily Butterfly Release

12pm. Join us daily at noon for a talk and butterfly release as we let newly-emerged but-

7 m A b r ae m b e r 2 pt e S 5 on Ava 5 on Sep tem ber 4

A v e ry e r 16 te m b 1 on Sep

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

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kayak guides. Trinity River Audubon Center, 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas 214-309-5814 www.trinityriver. audubon.org

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terflies out into the butterfly house conservatory. Texas Discovery Gardens-Fair Park, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas 214-428-74766 www. texasdiscoverygardens.org

Young’s campus and will take participants on a scenic route through East Dallas. C.C. Young, 4847 West Lawther Drive, Dallas 214-874-7474 www.carrythetorchrun.com

5 | TUESDAY

9 | SATURDAY

Toddler Storytime in Dallas

Dallas Ultimate Women’s Expo

10:30am. Ages 18 mos–3 years.

Stories and songs. Preston Royal Branch Library, 5626 Royal Lane, Dallas 214-6707128 www.dallaslibrary.org

6 | WEDNESDAY

10am-5pm. Complimentary spa treatments, massages, haircuts, makeovers, manicure, wine tastings and retail therapy. Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, 500 Las Colinas Blvd., W. Irving, www.dfwwomensexpo.com

BOGO at the Arboretum

Dallas Farmers Market

Buy one general admission, get one free. Available at the ticket booth only. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org

Sparky and Pals Fire Safety Puppet Show

3pm. Come and join the Sparky and Pals Puppets for a fun program that will teach you about fire safety. Arcadia Park Branch Library, 1302 N. Justin Avenue, Dallas 214-670-6446 www.dallaslibrary2.org

7 | THURSDAY

10am-8pm. 26,000 square feet of food and artisanal vendor market. Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood, Dallas www. dallasfarmersmarket.org

Grandparent’s Day Craft

2:00pm. Make a fun Grandparent’s Day craft! Kleberg-Rylie Branch Library, 1305 Edd Rd., Dallas 214-670-8471 www. library2.org

8 | FRIDAY

11 | MONDAY

Yogees Yoga 4 Kids

Power Hour Games

Bilingual Books and Boogie 3:30pm. Ages Up to 6 years.

Featuring music, movement, songs and crafts! NorthPark Center, 8687 N Central Expy, Ste. 1514, Dallas 214-671-1381 www.dallaslibrary2.org

Carry the Torch 5K and Fun Run

6:30pm. This family-friendly event will begin on C.C.

for Basketball and Volleyball Leagues Soccer, Volleyball and Basketball Skills Training Year Round FUN CAMPS WHEN THE KIDS ARE OUT OF SCHOOL Great Birthday Parties and Social Events Learn more at DallasSportsplex.com or call 972.385.5416

Weekend Marionette Shows

10am. Ages 2-3 years. Highland Park Library, 4700 Drexel Drive, Highland Park 214-5599400 www.hptx.org

10:30am-11am. Ages 3-5 yrs.

Bring a yoga mat and meet at NorthCourt for a literary journey through yoga breathing, stretching and story. NorthPark Center, 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas 214-671-1381 www.northparkcenter.com

REGISTER NOW

10 | SUNDAY 3pm. 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

Toddler Story Time in Highland Park

COME GET F.I.R.E.D. U.P. AT THE SPORTSPLEX

4:30-7pm. Power Hour™ is the only time of day you can play an entire hour of unlimited video games for just $10! Dave and Buster’s, 9450 N Central Expy, Dallas 214-361-5553 www.daveandbusters.com

12 | TUESDAY Home School Program

10:30am. Specialized programs created especially for homeschooling families. The goal is to enrich parent-taught curriculum in one or more of the following subjects: spelling, grammar, reading, math and good citizenship. Lakewood

Serving the needs of learning different students for 30 years.

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timeout Branch Library, 6121 Worth St, Dallas 214-670-1376 www. dallaslibrary.org

13 | WEDNESDAY The Young and the Restless Storytime

10:30am. Ages 1-2 years. Songs and finger-plays. Mesquite Main Library, 300 W. Grubb Dr, Mesquite www.cityofmesquite.com

14 | THURSDAY 31st Annual GrapeFest

10am-10:30pm. Four days of family fun with a midway!

Downtown Grapevine, 636 S. Main St., Grapevine www. grapevinetexasusa.com

Park(ing) Day Dallas

11am-6pm. City dwellers will transform permitted on-street parking spaces into dozens of tiny parks stretching several blocks along Main Street in Downtown Dallas. www. parkingdaydallas.org

15 | FRIDAY 31st Annual GrapeFest

10am-10:30pm. Four days of family fun with a midway!

Downtown Grapevine, 636 S. Main St., Grapevine www. grapevinetexasusa.com

Annual Native American Pow Wow

10am-5pm. Colorful tribal dance contests, an arts and crafts show, tipis, honoring ceremonies and singing Traders Village, Hwy 360 and Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie 972-647-2331 www.tradersvillage.com

Southwest RV Supershow

10am-6pm. More than 400 demonstration units on display.

Coupon on website. Dallas Market Hall, 2200 North Stemmons Freeway, Dallas www. southwestrvsupershow.com

16 | SATURDAY Heart of Gold 5K Run for the Children

Run to help fund research to find a cure and provide sup-

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

port services for families with a child battling cancer. Kids obstacle course, food, music, prizes and a commemorative balloon release. The Plaza at Galatyn Park, Richardson. www.runforthechildren.org.

See ad in this issue.

31st Annual GrapeFest

10am-10:30pm. Four days of family fun with a midway!

Downtown Grapevine, 636 S. Main St., Grapevine www. grapevinetexasusa.com

Trinity River Wind Festival

11am-5pm. Kite shows, giant inflatable kites, stage shows, kids zone, and more! Family fun and free admission. Trinity River Corridor Project, 146 W. Commerce Street, Dallas www.trinityrivercorridor.org

17 | SUNDAY 31st Annual GrapeFest

10am-10:30pm. Four days of family fun with a midway!

Downtown Grapevine, 636 S. Main St., Grapevine www. grapevinetexasusa.com

18 | MONDAY Baby Basics Storytime in Downtown Dallas

10:30am. Ages 0-18 months.

For babies and their caregivers, learn simple rhymes, songs and books to stimulate infants. Dallas Central Library, 1515 Young St., Dallas 214-6701400 www.dallaslibrary.org

19 | TUESDAY Evening Storytime

7pm. All ages. Mesquite Main Library, 300 W Grubb Drive, Mesquite 972-216-6220 www. cityofmesquite.com

20 | WEDNESDAY Cine de Oro

10am. Movie Screening Light food and refreshments provided before every movie. Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street, Dallas 214-6710045 www.artandseek.org

Visit the Perot Museum

10am-6pm. Buy general admission online and save $2 per person! An all-in-one destination for family fun with 11 permanent exhibit halls, exciting special exhibits, hands-on activities, amazing films, live science demonstrations, and more! Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas 214-428-5555 www. perotmuseum.org

21 | THURSDAY Toddler Story Time in Highland Park

10am. Ages 2-3 years. Highland Park Library, 4700 Drexel Drive, Highland Park 214-5599400 www.hptx.org

22 | FRIDAY Plano Balloon Festival

Runs Sept. 22-24. 4-10pm.

Three day festival with music, food, fireworks, kid’s activities and incredible hot air balloons. Amphitheater at Oak Point Park, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano www. planoballoonfest.org

24 | SUNDAY Daily Butterfly Release

12pm. Join us Daily at Noon for a talk and butterfly release as we let newly-emerged butterflies out into the butterfly house conservatory. Texas Discovery Gardens - Fair Park, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas 214-428-74766 www. texasdiscoverygardens.org

25 | MONDAY Baby Basics Storytime in Downtown Dallas

10:30am. Ages 0-18 months.

For babies and their caregivers, learn simple rhymes, songs and books to stimulate infants. Dallas Central Library, 1515 Young St., Dallas 214-6701400 www.dallaslibrary.org

26 | TUESDAY Preschool Storytime in Mesquite

10:30am. Ages 3-5 years. Mix of songs, rhymes, finger plays, and books. Mesquite Main and North Branch Library, , Mesquite www.cityofmesquite.com

23 | SATURDAY

27 | WEDNESDAY

FireFest

Home School Think Tank

10am-4pm. Educational safety programs, giant fire truck slide n bounce, hose cart races and more! Dallas Firefighters Museum, 3801 Parry Ave, Dallas www.dallasfiremuseum.com

10:30am. Homeschoolers will meet in the auditorium or study room to share curriculum and ideas. Dallas West Branch Library, 2332 Singleton Blvd, Dallas 214-670-6445 www.dallaslibrary.org

SPARK Public Hours

10am-4pm. Enjoy creative fun for the whole family! SPARK! 1409 S. Lamar St, Dallas 214421-7727 www.sparkdallas.org

Open House at the Writer’s Garret

10am-2pm. Enjoy author readings and course previews--speakers to be announced soon! Bring the kids along for fun events and activities. Bring a favorite dish to share in a potluck lunch.

The Writer’s Garret, 1250 Majesty Drive, Dallas 214-828-1715 www.artandseek.org

28 | THURSDAY Children’s Park at Klyde Warren Park

8am-8pm. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rogers Freeway, Dallas 214-716-4500 www.klydewarrenpark.org

Bilingual Spanish Story Time

10:30am. Bilingual story time every Thursday morning at 10:30 Lakewood Branch Dallas Public Library, 6121 Worth St, Dallas, 214-670-1376 www.lakewoodlibraryfriendsdallas.org Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent SEPTEMBER 2017

19

21ST ANNUAL

Walk to Remember Saturday, October 7 • 1:00 PM Calvary Church 4401 State Hwy 161, Irving

timeout 29 | FRIDAY

31 | SUNDAY

State Fair of Texas Opens

10% Military Discount at Dave and Buster’s

The Fair runs through Oct 22.

Fair Park, Dallas. Plan your trip at BIGTEX.COM. See ad in this issue.

Book and Crafts at Lakewood Library

JOIN US

to commemorate National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness month register @ mend.org Registration closes October 4

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M.E.N.D.

Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death 972-506-9000 • rebekah@mend.org

www.mend.org

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

10:30am. Books and crafts.

Lakewood Library, 6121 Worth Street, Dallas 214-670-1376 www.lakewoodlibraryfriendsdallas.org

30 | SATURDAY Highland Park Village Farmers Market

8:30am-1pm. Meet local farmers, artisanal food producers and craftsmen, sample and purchase their products. Highland Park Village, 47 Highland Park Village, Dallas 214-4439898 www.hpvillage.com

10am-close. Show your valid military ID to get 10% off food and game play for you and up to 4 Guests. Dave and Buster’s, 9450 N Central Expy, Dallas 214-530-1906 www. daveandbusters.com

save the date OCTOBER 7

oct

Walk to Remember

1pm. Join us to commemorate National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month.

Calvary Church 4401 State Hwy 161, Irving. Register by Oct 4 at mend.org. 972-506-9000. 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.

funstuff

of s d r o w dom wis

let’s get organized Organization is a big part of raising kids!

How about a Wall to Ceiling Calendar of Events!

A bit of wall prep, some chalk paint, wooden letters, 42 pieces of paper (in the size you want the calendar squares to be) and a few more items and you are ready to create an amazing planner/scheduler. Get detailed instructions at www.pinterest.com/suburbanparent/back-to-school

Barbara Aberc Determination is an inside job, but inspiration comes from the outside.

GOTTA

LOVE ‘EM At a recent visit to the Aquarium with our five year old daughter, we had stopped to watch some jelly fish in their tank. I said, “Look honey, these are jelly fish!”

She looked intently for a few moments then asked, “Mommy, where’s the peanut butter fish?

— Donna C.

How do you turn soup into gold?

You kidding me?

Source: The Book of Jokes, For Kids, From Kids.

You add 24 Carrots,

Why did the Banana go to the doctor?

Because it wasn’t peeling well.

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

21

wholesomeending

processed foods

learned behavior

The Good and Bad. Any time we prepare food, like baking or cooking, we are processing food (even sliced apples and boiled eggs are considered processed). Many of these processed foods are good for us and have a place in a balanced diet. Learn what’s healthy and what’s not-sohealthy. For instance, foods that are minimally processed could include roasted nuts, spinach (bagged), frozen vegetables and fruit, and canned tomatoes. These are typically processed at their peak to lock in freshness and optimum nutritional quality.

the good

Kids learn how to eat by trying new foods at least 15 times. If they don’t like it, don’t force it, but do have them try it again. Let them know that your encouragement is setting them up for a lifelong habit of healthy eating so they can live a healthier life.

Heavily processed foods are those that are not in their original form, and foods that have added ingredients, such as salt, sugar and fat.

Foods like breakfast cereal, savory snacks, pies, biscuits and cakes. Also, convenience foods, like microwave meals may lead people to eat more than the recommended amounts of sugar, salt and fat. Always read nutrition labels so you can choose wisely.

after school enrichment All kids are ready for a snack when they get home from school. Having these ready for when they return can be the beginning of a great evening. Try washed and cut fresh fruits and veggies, and keep them within an easy reach in the refrigerator. Also, consider a snack drawer filled with healthy foods for your older students.

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

tip Research shows that the simple act of cutting fruit will increase children’s consumption!

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