Dallas Parent, September 2018 by Suburban Parent

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the everything back to education school issue

Do Nothing Day

I’m Not Who I Thought I’d Be at

Tips for Keeping Your Middle Schooler

ORGANIZED

Why is play-based learning so powerful?

Back to School Survival Tips for Moms

See what's on Our BookShelf

Encouraging children to think abstractly and uniquely.

Keep things running smoothly this school year with these tried and true tips.

Inspiring reads for Moms who need a pick-me-up.

maryshares PUBLISHER/EDITOR

any of you may want to know about what has been happening in the lives of my family. My mother is dying, and dealing with a dying parent is hard to understand until you are thrust into the inevitable situation.

While I hesitated to actually share this information with you all, I ultimately de-

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR

cided I should. For my readers who may also have terminally ill or ailing parents,

Francie Morin

please know my heart is with you, even if I don’t personally know you. Life does

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

not come with a handbook for dying parents. My siblings and I sure wish it did. I do suggest that you take time, cherish those final years, or months, or weeks, but realize it probably won’t be picture perfect at the end. My mother has not passed yet as I write this, and she has the strength of an Ox, and we have to watch her while she sneakily tries to get out of bed. She can’t feel her feet, so this would be detrimental. She also pretends to be sleeping so she can hear our conversations. We sometimes say something that may make her laugh; just so she knows we are on to her! I can’t say there is an answer to how a child becomes parent and parent becomes child. I read somewhere it’s like a birth process gone backwards. I will recommend that you talk to your loved ones. Ask questions now about how they would want to be managed, when they can’t manage themselves. Questions like; “When you are too sick to speak for yourself, who do you want to speak

Christa Melnyk Hines Kathryn Streeter

CALENDAR EDITOR Paula Leonard

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com

AD DESIGNERS Alex Canales So Hee Lee Won

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Keith Minney Julie Lesser Williams

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for you.” Have a plan ready. With myself and my three other siblings there are a lot

Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

of voices! But somehow we have been able to recognize what matters most.

ACCOUNTING

“Mom, you matter because you are you, and you’ll matter to the last moment of your life.” We will be following the plan she prepared for us. Hmmm, we are still trying to figure out how to get a “Boys’ Choir” similar to the recent Royal Wedding, for her High Mass at her favorite Catholic Church. Yep, that’s in the plan!

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MEET OUR COVER KID ... Aurora, 9 years When Aurora grows up, she’d like to be an actress or a doctor. She’s a huge help to her mother and the best big sister to baby Isabelle (2 mos). She likes to dance and do gymnastics. She’s fond of pizza and donuts. But most of all, she loves to make her family happy!

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

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shouldknow

less injuries

working out when sick

As parents, we naturally worry about injuries to our adolescent athletes, but is there anything we can do to help prevent them?

DO NADA

September means schedules are back in full swing. School, sports, music lessons, dance classes, the list goes on. And while we’re 100% on board with how important extracurricular activities are, sometimes you just need downtime. That’s why we love the idea of a Do Nothing Day. Pick a Saturday or Sunday and stay home. Don’t do chores; don’t run errands. Don’t even change out of your PJ’s if you don’t want to. Just be together. Sounds easy enough, but it’s not for us moms who think we have to “do” for our kids all the time. But, if you can pull it off, you’ll be pleased at how well rested, relaxed and connected you feel as a family at the end of the day. Gifted is a term, not a goal for your child. Whether they have been labeled gifted or not, help your child keep a healthy perspective on grades. Sky-high expectations can be difficult to maintain and “giftedness” shouldn’t be used as a motivator. If your child is actually identified as gifted, beware of their drive to be perfect in all areas of their life. Perfectionism is time consuming and tiring. It can even cause abdominal pain and eating disorders. Watch for burnout too as striving to stay on top can cause stress and overtiredness which leads to low quality sleep, illness and trouble in school. Well, yes. Make sure our athletes get enough sleep. A study presented to the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that adolescent athletes who got eight or more hours of sleep per night were much less likely to be injured than athletes who slept less. Other than grade level, no other factor was significantly associated with injury including gender, number of sports played, sport specialization, and hours per week or weeks per year of participating.

Regular moderate exercise 3-4 times per week can boost your body’s defenses against illness, but what happens when you do get sick? Should you continue to work out? If your symptoms are above the neck (i.e. cold or sore throat), sure. But if they’re below the neck (i.e. upset stomach, aches, or cough), then no. Either way, listen to your body and don’t overextend yourself. Take your morning run down to an easy jog or walk. A high intensity or long workout could make things worse. And if you just don’t feel up to it, then don’t do it. If you have a fever, definitely take the day off. As you feel better, ease back into your regular workout routine.

thechixsite.com

lunch kabobs

Put kabobs in your kid’s lunchbox and they’ll win best lunch at the lunch table. They might actually eat it too! For Turkey Burger Kabobs, layer turkey meatballs, Monterey Jack, pickles, lettuce and tomato. Yum! For Pizza Kabobs, layer Mozzarella cheese with tomatoes, olives, basil, pepperoni, and bell pepper. For a PBJ Kabob, layer small sandwich squares with fruit in between. Fruit Kabobs are always great too with strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, pineapple and grapes. Include some sauces to dip these in (like BBQ, pesto, marinara, or yogurt) and they’re even better. Why is food on a stick so fun?

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NOW Enrolling 2018-2019 Kindergarten - Grade 12

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questions

q&a Diana, mom of 2 Q. My son, Nick loved his teacher and class last year, but hasn’t connected this year. A. For our kids, having a new teacher (or teachers) every fall is similar to us getting a new boss and being on a new team once a year. The most helpful thing you, as Nick’s mom, can do is listen to his concerns and respond empathetically. “She’s not funny like Ms. Crystal.” (You miss laughing.) “There’s no comfortable place for reading.” (Those soft couches were nice.) Ray sits on the other side of the room. (It’s hard to be separated.) “Recess is after lunch.” (That’s a bummer, you like a break in the morning.) “There are too many rules” (It’s hard to know what to do all the time.) Empathy goes a long way in Nick feeling understood by you, especially because you can’t change his class. JoAnn Schauf | yourtweenandyou.com

Carla, mom of 2 Q. Why is play-based learning so powerful? A. Play-based learning stems from a joyful learning experience that is packed with stimulation, tenacity, engagement, and meaning. An authentic play-based environment is also an academic environment. Schools that incorporate play-based learning encourage children to engage with peers in stimulating opportunities of imagination and creativity, which encourages children to think abstractly and uniquely. Children use the art of playing to connect with experiences that are meaningful in the context of their world. When children participate in unstructured play where they use multiple methods to seek solutions, they develop tenacity, perseverance and problem-solving abilities. It also develops their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical abilities, which are all attributes that make up the foundations for future success. Play-based learning can be a transformative experience because, at the end of the day, play is their work. Julie Grebe, Director | Parker-Chase Preschool – Carrollton Campus

Jennie, mom of 3 Q. Each school year brings issues I don’t always know how to address as a parent. What help should I expect from my local church? A. You’re right; parenting in our rapidly shifting culture is a tough job! Somewhere along the line churches got labeled as irrelevant by many, and that is a shame. Throughout the Metroplex there are solid churches that want to partner with you as the parent in equipping your student to not only survive, but thrive, both in school and well into adulthood. Look for a church with an intentional spiritual development strategy that expresses a desire to partner with you as the parent, and with leaders who are well equipped to connect with and to invest in your kids. Praying an awesome school year ahead for you and your family! Eric Estes, Community Pastor | 121 Community Church

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VERONICA, MOM OF 1

ASKS...

What should I do to make sure my child is nutritionally prepared for school? A. Research shows breaking an overnight fast with a balanced meal can make a major difference in overall health and well-being, especially for children and teens. Eating a smart breakfast can help improve behavior and school performance. On the other hand, skipping breakfast is a no-brainer, quite literally. When children skip breakfast, their brains and bodies suffer all day long. Get your kids started on the nutrition fast track to a high-energy, health-smart day with tasty, filling breakfast options. Visit EatRight.org for more information

Let’s Talk about being a GREAT student! Success in Speech and Language Therapy will lead to success in the classroom!

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

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welovethis 1

CHARM HER Sending your daughter off to college? Invest in a Me & You gift! A piece of jewelry you can both appreciate. One for you and one for her! This season, Chamilia, a Swarovski company, released 12 new “Birthstone Galaxy charms. This collection is made with the fine jewelry standard of Swarovski! Don’t miss out on a Me & You gift idea! www.

1 Self Therapy Dough by Pinch Me

3 Home Sweet Home!

We know, it may be hard if you are dropping of your child for the first time! Keep this scent-infused therapy dough with you; it just takes a squeeze to help you relax and recalibrate. It’s a sensorial experience packed in a tin so you can de-stress anywhere you go. We found this at www.thegrommet.com.

It’s like your home is glad to see you, each time you come home to home. The natural coir fibers are inserted into an all-weather vinyl backing for lasting endurance. The mats are stain, rot and mildew resistant, and easily cleaned with a good shaking or vacuuming. 18”x30”. We found it on etsy at www.skytoseacreativeco. $40.00

2 Need a Beauty Boost? Try an Internal Beauty Booster that can nourish your skin from within. PUR attitude has a nice Rest, Relax & Renew Supplement that delivers 1,000 mg of three different molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid. (HA) is in almost every cell of our body and is essential for our body to function properly – like keeping the skin hydrated. Use as a dietary supplement 20 minutes before bed. Make sure to consult your doctor if under the age of 18. www. purattitude.com, $39.00

4 Weighted Sleep Therapy with nodpod! Self-care is an important factor in your daily routine. Don’t let it be put on the back burner due to busy schedules! With September being National Self-Care Awareness month, now is the time to start focusing on yourself. A good night’s sleep helps to feel rejuvenated for the day ahead. Enjoy the gentle pressure from the microbead filled eye pillow. Find it at: www.nodpod.com, $25.00

chamilia.com, $45.00

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win

Enter for a chance to win @ suburbanparent.com

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tamarasearsphotography.com

bookshelf

inspiring reads for Moms Who Need a Pick-Me-Up

Imperfect Courage Hand Wash Cold

Present Over Perfect

It’s easy to think that meaning, fulfillment, and bliss are “out there,” somewhere outside of our daily routine. But in this playful yet profound reflection on awareness, the compelling voice of a contemporary woman reveals the happiness at the bottom of the laundry basket, the love in the kitchen sink, and the peace possible in one’s own backyard. Follow Karen Maezen Miller through youthful ambition and self-absorption, beyond a broken marriage, and into the steady calm of a socalled ordinary life. Read along as she discovers it’s the little things - even the unexpected, unpleasant, and unwanted things that count.

This book leads us to concentrate on what is truly important. Leave the dishes, the cat litter, the laundry…. It will be there and eventually it will get done. Shauna Niequist leads us to her very own personal experiences overcoming an overwrought life filled with busyness, stress, and feelings of inadequacy. Niequist came to the realization that she has been missing out on the beauty of everyday life with her husband and children, recognizing that she needs to slow down, simplify and learn how to say no to demands on her time. Hey readers, you may learn a lot from this insightful, soulful way of living.

Karen Maezen Miller For Adult readers

Shauna Niequist For Adult readers

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The Gift of Another Ordinary Day An intimate memoir of a family in transition-boys becoming teenagers, careers ending and new ones opening up. It is a story of mid-life longings and discoveries, of lessons learned in the search for home and a new sense of purpose, and the bittersweet intensity of life with teenagers. Poised on the threshold between family life as she’s always known it and her older son’s departure for college, Kenison is surprised to find that the times she treasures most are the ordinary, unremarkable moments of everyday life. Katrina Kenison For Adult readers

A social entrepreneur, adoptive mother, and the 2017 winner of the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award, Jessica is bringing her tales of global connection, motherhood, entrepreneurism and women’s empowerment to cities across the US. Noonday Collection Founder Jessica Honegger tells the whole Noonday story as it’s never been heard before--and leads the reader on a journey to discover their own imperfect courage. The perfect read for anyone who has ever had a big dream, but needed a little push to get out of their comfort zone and go scared! Jessica Honegger

for adult readers

OPEN HOUSE

TUESDAY | OCTOBER 9 | 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY | OCTOBER 10 | 9:30 a.m.

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Keeping Your Middle Schooler

rganized H

ey, Moms! When your son or daughter starts middle school this fall, teachers will expect them and their classmates to manage homework, school supplies and activities without the same oversight they experienced in elementary school. Set your tween up for success in a way that supports their growing independence. This is the time to let go and hope that you have taught your child how to stay organized. Of course, continue to offer guidance as your tween chooses organizational systems and colorful supplies that motivate them-all while staying on budget. Many moms have said that the dollar store is their favorite place. They have tons of bins and organizational things that you can buy and not bust your bank.

GET ORGANIZED

CHOOSE A CALENDAR

Organization is a learned and essential life skill. Mismanaged materials result in needless stress, time-wasted tracking down lost items and poor grades. “When kids get into the habit of organizing, they’re developing valuable planning and critical-thinking skills that will help them become better problem solvers and creative thinkers,” says professional organizer Shawna Childers.

Between school, extracurricular activities and a budding social life, busy middle schoolers can get overwhelmed. Select a cool calendar with your tween that she can fill out each week to help her visualize and prioritize her time.

ACCESSORIZE THEIR LOCKER

REMEMBER HOMEWORK

Writing to-do lists and filling out assignment pads helps kids keep track of homework. If teachers permit, your tween might also snap photos of assignments posted on the board with their phone. Mikita Burton, a mom of three, and professional organizer, took advantage of technology to help her son remember homework materials. “Most teachers now have ‘web backpacks’ where parents

can also see the assignment. I used the technology that our kids are now accustomed to and added assignments to his cell phone,” she says. “I set reminders and they would ping five minutes after the dismissal bell in hopes that by the time he got to his locker, he’d be reminded of the assignment and bring the correct book home.”

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Prevent a locker from becoming a jumble of books, smashed papers and supplies. “A locker shelf should be your first purchase,” Burton advises. Discount stores sell baskets that can be flipped on the side to create an inexpensive locker shelf or purchase a shelf at area office supply stores. Hang magnetic baskets on the lockers inside door to house extra pens and pencils. Kids generally love choosing personalized accessories to customize their temporary space. “Fun decorations on the inside encourage kids to keep it clean,” Burton says.

BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES

TOSS CLUTTER

“A great way to stay organized for the entire school year is to re-organize their binders, notebooks and folders quarterly,” Childers says. “It works well to do this ‘clean out and refresh’ after each report card.”

ENCOURAGE INDEPENDENCE

MANAGE BACKPACKS

Simplify filing and retrieving of materials stashed in backpacks with color-coordinated folders and notebooks for each school subject. Get your child in the habit of cleaning out his backpack weekly to manage the balled-up papers, broken pencils and other trash that inevitably collect.

As long as your tween completes their work and earns good grades, you should be comfortable with whatever kind of organization system your tween implements. Late assignments and poor grades will mean more oversight from mom, which typically doesn’t excite an independence-driven middle schooler. “Letting your child fail a bit is hard as a parent, but I’ve found sometimes that’s what we need to do to help them learn,” says Childers.

CREATE A HOMEWORK STATION

Together, design and organize a functional, distraction-free homework space and stock it with necessary supplies. “Every kid should have what I call a landing station-a place in their room or common area to land all of their stuff,” Burton says.

Each afternoon, Burton’s son stows his backpack in a large round plastic tub on the floor. He files paperwork that needs to be signed or reviewed by his mom in a hanging file folder box positioned above the tub. A small night stand holds his school-issued laptop and serves as a charging station.

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BY KATHRYN STREETER

‘m in my 40th year of life, and today I sat for most of the morning at the kitchen table working on my sevenyear-old son’s model Porsche, a beautiful blue Boxster—at least that’s what the picture shows on the box. School is out and he and his older sister have asked: “Mom, are you going to be using the kitchen?” “Well, noooo,” I answer cautiously. Turns out that today is Car Day and the chosen venue is the kitchen. My son has decided that he’s not waiting for the weekend when Dad can help him put his new model car together. He’s emptied the contents all over the table before I realize what’s happening. Forget my personal ambitions for the day; my to-do list will have to wait. My son cheers me on as I painstakingly follow the instructions to assemble the Porsche. Then he deserts me, running off to continue a game with his sister that involves toy cars of every kind imaginable, unearthed from their hiding places around the house and now all over the kitchen floor. Unbelievable. It reminds me of games they played as three and five-year-olds. But apparently that stage isn’t over, even though they have long aged out of it. Honestly, assembling model cars is not my forte. The little tiny pieces, the absurd directions with drawings that don’t match up to the pieces I’ve neatly laid out on the table, the pre-drilled holes that aren’t big enough, the wimpy, poorly manufactured screws—so little and easily lost—all are mind-boggling “Oh no!” A rebellious screw goes ping, ping, ping down onto the wood floor and immediately becomes invisible. The kids let out a sigh of dismay: “Moooom!” I lamely remind them that it wasn’t my idea to dive into the Porsche project; normally, this is Dad-duty. We all scramble over the floor, brushing aside dust-bunnies and cracker crumbs until we rescue the all-important screw.

But, screw it. This is my life at 40, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. These little voices begging me to stop working on the computer (“You love the computer more than us!”) so that I can witness some new skit they have for me. Or a newly constructed house—which resembles a Dr. Seuss creation—carefully made out of three deserted shoeboxes for their pipe-cleaner people. Or the snake of cars winding through chair legs in the kitchen. I used to think I’d be an amazing sophisticate when I turned 40, probably too busy to put together a model car for my son. Don’t be too harsh. Forty sounded so out there—I imagined I would be this better-spoken, better-occupied, better-disciplined, better-dressed woman. By 40, I’d actually feel a daily sense of accomplishment, enjoying a life where I was leading the agenda, not reacting to strawberry jam stains on my daughter’s favorite white shirt that needs to be perfect for school tomorrow. Strict work time carved out for writing great stories, captivating articles. Shouldn’t you find yourself concentrating on things of weighty significance by 40? “Mom! We have eighty-eight cars. With the Porsche we have eighty-nine!” my daughter shouts triumphantly. How the heck can one family have so many cars? Clearly, I wasn’t entirely right about how age changes a person’s life. The scene of the 89 cars in the kitchen says so. There’s quite a lot going on as I hit this milestone birthday, and much of it is sweetly familiar. It’s good to discover that for now, time mercifully allows change to happen less drastically than I’d imagined. I’m glad I’m sitting here in jeans. After all, I’m dressed appropriately for concentrating on things of weighty significance—the kids, and yes, the model car. A sense of accomplishment? You bet. My little clients are happy, even if I couldn’t get the darn headlights attached.

Kathryn Streeter’s writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Week, Austin Amercan-Stateman and elsewhere. Find her on Twitter, @streeterkathryn.

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timeout community calendar | september 2018

1 | SATURDAY Lobster Boil

10am-5pm Come out on September 1 & 2 and experience the taste of fresh whole boiled lobster with sides and listen to some great live music. The event will be held under the covered Big Red Patio in the SE corner of the market. Free. Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www. tradersvillage.com

Home Depot Kids Workshop

9am-12pm Home Depot’s Kids Workshops are held the first Saturday of every month at all stores. Please register ahead of time online to make sure there are enough kits and aprons for the participants. However, registration is not mandatory. Free 6000 Skillman, Dallas www.homedepot.com/workshops/#change_store

Jurassic Park in Concert

7:30-9:30pm Featuring visually stunning imagery and groundbreaking special effects, the action-packed

8 18

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adventure of Jurassic Park pits man against prehistoric predators in the ultimate battle for survival. Experience it now, projected in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing John Williams’ iconic score live to picture. Check website for all show times. Tickets from $36. Through Sept. 2. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas www.mydso.com

2 | SUNDAY Group Dynamix Adventure Sundays

2-6pm Every first Sunday of the month, play on the largest indoor ropes course in Texas. There’s Blacklight Dodgeball, BowTag, Climbing Trees, Gaga ball and more! For ages 12 and up. $33. 1100 Venture Ct #120, Carrollton www. groupdynamix.com

pool games and fun. There is a snack bar, but coolers with food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome. The pool has a diving board, two water slides, island and shallow wading area for small children. Tickets start at $10. Texas Pool, 901 Springbrook Dr, Plano www.texaspool.org

4 | TUESDAY Oklahoma!

7:30-9:30pm Set in a Western Indian territory just after the turn of the century, the high-spirited rivalry between the local farmers and cowboys provides the colorful background for a love story. Tickets from $22 for adults and $10 for children age 12 and younger. Through September 29. Artisan Center Theater, 444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www.artisanct.com

3 | MONDAY

5 | WEDNESDAY

Labor Day Pool Party

Texas Rangers vs. Angels

12-6pm The Texas Pool Labor Day Party is all about food,

7-10:30pm Come cheer on the Texas Rangers and enjoy

Luna

Andrew

Avery

15 on Aug. 13

4 on Aug. 28

2 on Sept. 16

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

dollar hot dog night! Tickets start at $17 and can be purchased online. 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington www.www. mlb.com/rangers/tickets/promotions

6 | THURSDAY JumpstART Stories & Art— Jump into Fall!

10-11am On the first Thursday of each month, meet at the Irving Arts Center for stories and art! Create a takehome art project and then browse the galleries with your kids as part of this fun and free morning activity. All supplies provided. This month’s theme: Jump into Fall! Apples, pumpkins, falling leaves! For age 2 and older. Free. 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving www.irvingartscenter.com

7 | FRIDAY Beau Jest

7-9pm Lovely Jewish parents asked their charming Jewish daughter to bring home the beau she has been dating for months. But wait! He’s not Jewish – so she hires an actor to play the Jewish boyfriend to please her folks. Problem solved? Absolutely not! $22. Artisan Center Theater, 444 E Pipeline Rd www.artisanct.com

8 | SATURDAY Operation Kindness 25th Annual Dog Day Afternoon

10am-1pm Highlights include, Best K9 Costume, Stupid Pet Tricks and Best Pooch

Smooch contests with prizes. There’s a Mutt Midway and dozens of pet-friendly vendors, plus free microchipping for the first 100 dogs. Free. 3201 Earhart Drive, Carrollton www.support.operationkindness.org/site/Calendar/1617683945?view=Detail&id=101845

Fiestas Patrias

12-5pm Come and celebrate the Mexican national holiday referred to as Fiestas Patrias, or Diez Y Seis de Septiembre. Mexican Americans celebrate this holiday to reinforce their cultural links with each other and with Mexico. It will be an afternoon of music and entertainment for all ages. Free. Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www.tradersvillage.com

2018 Latino Heritage Festival

6-10pm The 2018 Latino Heritage Festival will kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month, which celebrates and recognizes the contributions made by Hispanic and Latino Americans. The festival will feature traditional folkloric dance and musical performances, cultural exhibits, authentic food court, face painting, bounce houses, and more. Free. The DeSoto Amphitheater, 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd, DeSoto www. ci.desoto.tx.us/1780/Latino-Heritage-Festival

Discovery Days at Perot Museum

10am-4pm Discover the fun of science together with your whole family on the second Saturday of each month! Try out real experiments, design and build new creations, and

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timeout check out dynamic performances each month with guest scientists, educators and artists. Price included in general admission. Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St, Dallas www.perotmuseum.org

2018 Dallas Chocolate Festival: The Future of Chocolate

11am-5pm The much-anticipated Dallas Chocolate Festival, presented by DallasChocolate. org, is celebrating the “Future of Chocolate,” (2018 theme) and educating Dallas about chocolate, one bar at a time! The three-day festival brings in over 70 chocolate makers and chocolatiers from around the world and locally. Festival highlights include a Friday night VIP Party and Saturday’s family-friendly expo offering samples, shopping opportunities, demonstrations, and classes at Fashion Industry Gallery (F.I.G.). Sunday’s hands-on workshops, including a Chocolate Tasting class and a Chocolate Making workshop, will be at held at Whole Foods Market on Preston Forest Shopping Center. $35 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Fashion Industry Galleries, 1807 Ross Avenue, Dallas www.dallaschocolate.org

Show & Tell: Exotic Pets

4-5pm Show off your exotic animal(s) and tell us all about yourself! Meet like-minded animal lovers every 2nd Saturday at 4pm! Enjoy our complimentary beverages while you meet new friends! Free. Backyard Wildlife Resource Center, 406 W Belt Line Rd, Cedar Hill www.facebook.com/backyardwildliferesourcecenter

9 | SUNDAY Second Sunday Family Funday—Paint It!

1-4pm Second Sunday Family Fundays give parents and children projects they can co-create. Find inspiration in the gallery exhibitions, holidays and seasons as families make art, friends and fun. This month’s theme: Paint It! Grab a paintbrush and go with the flow to create colorful compositions.

Free. 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving www.irvingartscenter. com/event/2nd-sunday-family-funday-2018-09-09

10 | MONDAY Dallas Farmers Market

11am-7pm Come visit the 26,000 square foot food hall and artisanal vendor market containing four anchor restaurants, a mixture of local specialty foods, artisanal food vendors, and seating areas both inside and out where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in a view of the Dallas skyline or observing the market-goers. Open daily. 920 S Harwood, Dallas www.dallasfarmersmarket.org

11 | TUESDAY InterSkate Bargain Night

5-9pm Get out of the heat and bring the whole family to InterSkate for some skating fun every Tuesday evening for Bargain Night! $4 admission (includes regular skate rental); $4 inline rental. 1408 Texas 121 Business, Lewisville www.interskate.net

12 | WEDNESDAY First Ladies – Style of Influence

9am-5pm This exhibit examines how the role of the first lady has evolved over time, and how first ladies have used their position to advance diplomacy and other social, cultural, and political initiatives. See website for daily museum hours. Tickets from $13. Through Oct. 1. George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas www.bushcenter.org

counts from shops in the arts district. Tickets can be pre-purchased online for $12 or at the door for $18. Event1013, 1013 E 15th St, Plano www.visitdowntownplano.com/winewalk

14 | FRIDAY Native American Pow Wow

10am-10pm Colorful tribal dance contests, an arts & crafts show, tipis, honoring ceremonies, singing and much more will be part of this event. The Indian food booth will serve authentic Native American foods all weekend long. Free. Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www.tradersvillage.com

Friendship Tea Party at American Girl

2-4:30pm Come to the American Girl Store for a special WellieWishers Friendship Tea Party! Parties will take place through October and include a special menu, crafts, fun WellieWishers-inspired conversation cards, and a cupcake-decorating activity. Reservations required. $13.50 per person, (gratuity not included). American Girl Store, 13464 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas www.americangirl.com

15 | SATURDAY ASI Gymnastics - Parent’s Night Out

6-10pm At Parents Night Out, children will enjoy an evening of fun, safe activities. The night will also include dinner and a drink. Open to both members and non-members. For Ages 3 yrs - 14 yrs. $23-$28. 11835 Greenville Ave, Dallas www. asigymnastics.com/parentsnight-out

13 | THURSDAY

16 | SUNDAY

Downtown Plano Art and Wine Walk

Dallas Cowboys vs. NY Giants - Season Home Opener

5-9pm The Art & Wine Walk is a sip and shop event the second Thursday of the month where participants sample wine while enjoying live music, curated art exhibitions, and exclusive dis-

SEPTEMBER 2018 Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent

7- 10pm The Cowboys meet the New York Giants in the at home season opener. The game will be broadcast on NBC’s Sunday Night Football. General Admisson (standing room only), $40.

1 AT&T Way, Arlington www. attstadium.com/events/Cowboys-vs-Giants

Plano Bridal Show

12-5pm If there are wedding bells in your future, don’t miss this show. Representatives from more than 100 wedding-related businesses will be on hand to guide you in planning every detail of your wedding and honeymoon. See a bridal fashion show and learn all about the hottest wedding trends. Door prizes and giveways, too. Tickets start at $12. Plano Event Center, 2000 E Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano www.planoeventcenter.org

17 | MONDAY Teen Anime Club

5-6pm Join us for an hour of Anime, Crafts, and Snacks! Each month we will watch a different anime. Open to 7th-12th Graders. Free. 4809 Haltom Rd, Haltom City www.haltomcitytx.com

18 | TUESDAY Audelia Road Branch Chess Club

6-7:30pm Come join us at the library for a round of Chess the first and third Tuesday of every month. Meet other chess players and have some fun. All ages and levels are welcome. Free. 10045 Audelia Road, Dallas www.dallaslibrary.librarymarket.com/audelia-road-branchchess-club-13

19 | WEDNESDAY Dallas Mexican American Historical League presents Pixar’s COCO

11am-4pm The Dallas Mexican American Historical League will commemorate the legend of Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) by showing the movie Coco (Disney/Pixar) September 19, 27 & 28, 2018 at the Latino Cultural Center. Seating is limited to 300 per showing, please email dmahl181885@gmail.com or visit www.dmahl.org for additional information. Free. 2600 Live Oak St., Dallas, www.lcc. dallasculture.org

20 | THURSDAY Addison Oktoberfest

6-11pm With incredible German culinary fare, the festival also includes a Marketplace, music, and kid-friendly options like rides, midway games, and much more. Through Sept. 23. Check website for daily hours. Tickets start at $10. 4970 Addison Cir, Addison www.addisonoktoberfest.com

21 | FRIDAY Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden Fifth Anniversary

9am-5pm The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden celebrates the fifth anniversary of the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden with a birthday party and other festive events. The festivities coincide with the opening of Autumn at the Arboretum and Hispanic Heritage Month with the first-ever quinceañera fashion show, both taking place on Sept. 22. See website for more information. Free with general admission: Through Sept. 23. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org/cag

Alice in Wonderland Jr.

7:30-9:00pm The kids of Studio B Performing Arts Center travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice in her madcap adventures. Featuring updated songs from Disney’s 1951 animated motion picture, Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. is a fast-paced version of the classic tale. See website for all dates and show times. Tickets start at $10. Through Sept. 30. 2400 FM407 suite 1, Highland Village www.studiobtheater.com

Texas Rangers vs Seattle Mariners

7-10pm Come cheer on the Texas Rangers. Tickets start at $22. 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington www.mlb.com/rangers/tickets/ promotions

22 | SATURDAY Girls in Aviation Day Dallas

10am-2pm The North Texas Chapter of Women in Aviation

International (WAI) will be hosting its fourth annual Girls in Aviation Day - a program designed to introduce girls to the possibilities of a career in aviation. Limited quantities of Girls in Aviation Day backpacks, Aviation for Girls Magazines will be provided on a first come-first serve basis. Girls ages 8 to 16. Free. 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas www.flightmuseum.com

23 | SUNDAY Newsies

2:30-4pm Set in New York City at the turn of the century, Newsies is the tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a ragged band of teenaged “newsies,” who dreams only of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. Newsies is suitable for the entire family. Tickets from $29.50. Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St, Dallas www.ticketdfw.com/whats-on/2018/newsies

24 | MONDAY Space Mission at LEGOLAND Discovery Center

10am-6pm Reach a new altitude of fun with Space Mission at LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Free with paid admission. Through the end of 2018. 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine www.dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

25 | TUESDAY Bilingual/Spanish Storytime (Hora De Cuentos)

11am-12pm Stories, songs and rhymes in Spanish to get ready to read! Suggested ages: 6 years old and under. Free. Fretz Park Branch Library, 6990 Belt Line Road, Dallas www. d a l l a s l i b r a r y. l i b r a r y m a r ke t . com/bilingualspanish-storytime-hora-de-cuentos-56

26 | WEDNESDAY ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids Story and Craft Time

10:30-11:30am Come to the Whole Foods Market each Wednesday for stories, crafts

and healthy snacks at the Highland Village store’s kids area near the cafe. Snacks and refreshments for the kids will be provided. Kids ages 2–6 with an adult. Free. 4041 Waller Creek, Highland Village www. wholefoodsmarket.com

27 | THURSDAY Oktoberfest – Ft. Worth

5-11pm Oktoberfest returns to Panther Island Pavilion for an authentic German celebration. The festival kicks off with Thursday’s ceremonial “Tapping of the Kegs” and the fun continues through Saturday with dachshund races, chicken dancing, stein hoisting, bier barrel rolling races and Bavarian dancing. Thursday tickets are $5; $10 on Friday and Saturday. 395 Purcey St, Fort Worth www.oktoberfestfw.com

Taste of Grand Prairie

5-10pm Come and enjoy some amazing food, meet with different businesses and ride on some spectacular rides! All food samples are free! Tickets are $10 for Adults, $5 for Senior Citizens, $5 Students (K-12). A rides wristband can be purchased for an additional $5. Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www.tradersvillage.com

28 | FRIDAY State Fair of Texas Opens

Save big with a Family 4-Pack. Get 4 General Admission tickets plus $50 in food and ride coupons for just $100. BIGTEX. COM. See ad in this issue.

29 | SATURDAY La Pulguita: Art Mercado

12-5pm Join us in celebrating Latino artists/artisans at the Latino Cultural Center during our first La Pulguita event. See website for more information. Free. 2600 Live Oak St, Dallas www.facebook.com/ events/263262104270447

Polynesian Festival

11am-5pm The South Pacific comes to Traders Village with

a celebration of the culture and food of the Samoan, Tongan, Fijian, and Hawaiian islands. Experience the food of the Coco Shrimp and Islanders Food Trucks. There will be Polynesian musicians, dancers and plenty of Polynesian entertainment. Free; $4 Parking. 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www.tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie/ events/polynesian-festival

30 | SUNDAY Allen Bridal Show

12-5pm If there are wedding bells in your future, don’t miss this show. Representatives from 100+ wedding-related businesses will be there to guide you in planning every detail of your wedding and honeymoon. There will be door prizes, a fashion show and more. Tickets start at $10. Allen Event Center, 200 E Stacy Rd, Allen www.alleneventcenter.com

save the date

oct.

OCTOBER 6 Walk to Remember

1pm. Join us to commemorate National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness month. Presented by M.E.N.D. (Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death). Calvary Church 4401 State Hwy 161, Irving. Register by Oct 3 at mend.org. 972-506-9000. See ad in this issue.

OCTOBER 9 Grace Academy of Dallas Open House

6:30pm. Please call for reservations. Another Open House Oct 10 at 9:30am. 11306 Inwood Rd, 214-696-5648. GraceAcademy. com. See ad in this issue.

OCTOBER 25 Notre Dame School Open House

9:30-11am. RSVP to creynolds@ notredameschool.org. 2018 Allen St., Dallas, 214-720-3911 notredameschool.org. 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.

Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent SEPTEMBER 2018

funstuff

survival tips for moms

GOTTA

G B I B L E S T U D Y D R Z K

P N U M Y T O W A L K S E I W

Z Q V B U N Q S O U D J L S A

K R O P B E A D T N E S A O T

I was snacking on nachos, and my preschooler asked what I was eating. With my mouth full, I answered, “Nachos.” She looked confused and asked again. I repeated, “They are nachos.” She looked hurt and said, “you should share, mommy!” I realized then that she thought I was saying, “Not yours.” A lesson to not speak with my mouth full.

A person who never made a mistake, never tried anything new.

Keep things running smoothly this school year with these tried and true tips. • Create weekly school lunch and dinner menus It’s good to have a plan ahead of time. • Make a homework station Complete with supplies and good lighting. • Organize closets and dresser drawers To make getting dressed in the morning so much easier. • Set up a family bulletin board To post flyers and art projects. • Keep a family calendar Digital is great, but paper will never let you down. • Designate a mudroom or area for shoes, backpacks, and soon coats. Hooks in the hallway or shelves by the backdoor will help keep items in their place. • Create a chore chart Because chores still need to get done even during the school year.

LOVE ‘EM

words of wisdom

— Albert Einstein

— Abigail, mom of 1

What starts with the letter “T,” is filled with “T,” and ends in “T?” A teapot

K S R I F L F P A C N B X D C

I W D X R E E F K H I I N T H

SEPTEMBER 2018 Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent

Z I V R I S D B E D A N C E M

R N C E E N D B A A N S R I O

E D Q Q N M S U C T F K A R V

G O Q O D T A O L E H E F K I

A W R L T Q U S A C N X T M E

L S A E I R E H S Z Y V I K S

R H X P M N A F S A I O N S F

A O K R E A D I N G G L G J M

T P Z Z P S W H M E D E T A H

n BIBLESTUDY

p n BUBBLEBATH n CRAFTING n DANCE n FRIENDTIME n LUNCHDATE n MASSAGE n NAP n READING n RELAX n TAKEACLASS n WALK n WATCHMOVIES n WINDOWSHOP n YOGA

wholesomeending

pampering you! Now that the kids are back in school, it’s time for moms to take care of themselves!

First day of school tears?

Setting aside nurturing time for a facial, massage or simply time to relax at home is very important to keep yourself healthy. We know you want to be the best you can be for your family; so when you find yourself feeling run down or stressed, make sure to schedule in a time for “self-pampering!” And for working moms, maybe schedule a personal day – you deserve some alone time and self-pampering at home.

Lingering until your

After School (drop-off) Enrichment for moms

providers to assume

An at home Spa Day would not be complete without a long soak in a hot bath! Bath bombs or fizzies are the perfect addition to your bath. Why spend money on expensive bath bombs when you can make them yourself? Get the how to at www. somethingturquoise.com

self-pampering; you

child stops crying sends her mixed signals. Go ahead and reassure her – maybe introduce her to another child her age. No one else can comfort your child better than you, but in this case, allow the teachers and child care that role. So, go home and start your personal deserve it.

Go Coconuts! This natural source of vitamin E can promote and repair your skin. Did you know you could use coconut oil while shaving? Simply bring your jar of coconut oil into the shower. The heat will melt the solid oil – then pour a small amount into your palms and smooth in any area (even sensitive bikini areas) you want to shave.

tip Repair dull yellow nails with sliced lemon and cucumber in a bowl of cool water. Soak hands for ten minutes. Use an orange stick to push back cuticles.

Let our advertisers know you found them in Dallas Parent SEPTEMBER 2018

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