Irving Parent, August 2018 by Suburban Parent

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AUGUST 2018 | FREE suburbanparent.com

inform | educate | inspire

IRVING | LAS COLINAS | VALLEY RANCH

the everything education issue

Conversations about School A YOU SHOULD KNOW

Essential Items Missing

Look who's headed off to

FROM YOUR COLLEGE PACKING LIST

COLLEGE

Keep Her and Her Money Safe at College

Engaging the Daydreamer

Five Star Man Dating Handbook

See this and more on our We Love This page where it's all about the students!

In this feature, we share some tips on how you can re-engage your daydreamer.

See our bookshelf page and decide if this dating handbook is for you.

maryshares Yep, it’s Back to School and on to College!

lways a joy to feature local kids on our covers, and this month we are celebrating young adults on their way to college. A place where there will be new doors to open and others to close.

The door to higher education leads to greater insights; and on this journey

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR Francie Morin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

your child will not only learn curriculum, they will learn more about themselves.

Christa Melnyk Hines Pam Molnar

It’s a lot like a discovery of self. Now, I can’t stress enough how important it is that

CALENDAR EDITOR

they recognize the importance of community! Isolation can lead to depression.

Paula Leonard

So talk about this and encourage them to find a tribe of sorts. It’s best to have

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

friends that they can depend on for what is needed. The local Community Center could be a great place to start. Many colleges also have FOCUS missionaries on campus. FOCUS has had amazing impact on college campuses with young missionaries reaching out to students to help them pursue excellence in their faith, their education, their sport, and their entire lives. Through super fun outreach events and one-on-one conversations, students make meaningful connections

deeply in students’ lives and build them up in the knowledge

AD DESIGNERS Alex Canales So Hee Lee Won

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Fran Keng Julie Lesser Williamss

AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION

and develop growing relationships, sharing life and coming together in authentic community. FOCUS missionaries invest

Julia Lauren Photography julialaurenphotography.com

Learn more at

www.focus.org

and practice of faith.

Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, “I will try again tomorrow.” — Mary Anne Radmacher

Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

ACCOUNTING

Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

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EDITORIAL

follow Suburban Parent Mag @mecrd

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editor@suburbanparent.com

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MEET OUR COVER MODEL ... Lauren, 20 years Lauren attends Texas Christian University as a Combined Science (Pre-Health) Major/Studio Art Minor. She loves traveling, photography, and going to cool funky restaurants. She has a younger brother named Jordan (18). Lauren is caring, ambitious and loves life. She’s a member of Chi Omega Sorority at TCU too. Go Frogs!

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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 They don’t hate you

let’s talk school It’s August. Time to start talking about the new school year. Whether they’re starting their first year or starting their last, get them excited about what they can expect. New friends, the playground, snack time… graduation. Share your own stories. Answer questions and address any fears no matter how silly or small. Make sure older kids finish up their summer assignments in plenty of time. Take little kids to the library and encourage reading for an hour each day. It’s time to get the brain moving again, but plan some fun end of summer activities too. It’s going to be a great year!

Surviving Mid Life blues Researchers have found that, regardless of life circumstances (income, career, family, etc.), most of us reach the lowest point on our individual happiness curve in midlife (mid 40’s to early 50’s). The reason is unclear, but researchers suspect it has to do with unmet expectations. In other words, we feel disappointed that our present reality is not what our younger selves thought our future would be. To make things worse, we then feel guilty for feeling glum because our lives are not really that bad. But there is good news. As we get older, the pattern apparently reverses and we realize we’re happier than we thought we would be.

just hanging around

Wish your kid had better hand writing? Take him to the playground. No, really. Climbing, hanging and swinging on the monkey bars build strength in the upper body and core muscles. It also develops flexibility and agility in the shoulders, elbows, wrists and fingers. By integrating large muscle activities with the hands, kids learn to coordinate those muscles and use them more adeptly in other activities… like handwriting. Who knew? So, to hone those fine motor skills, make sure your kid is getting plenty of time to work on his gross motor skills.

They may say it, but they don’t mean it. So, don’t react like they do. When kids say, “I hate you” it’s usually a reaction to a rule or limit you’ve set. It’s not personal. Instead of getting upset yourself, help them to understand their feelings and express them appropriately by connecting their anger to its cause (i.e. “I said you couldn’t go and now you’re mad.”). Then encourage them to say, “I’m angry” instead. Don’t shame them for their choice of words though and, even if you want to, don’t respond in kind because they may actually believe you.

Coloring, for mom time If you consider coloring just a kid’s activity, think again. Coloring has a de-stressing effect on adults. Besides making us focus on a particular activity instead of our worries, it also brings out our imagination and takes us back to our childhood (a much less stressful time in our lives). Using both logic and creativity, it activates the different areas of our two cerebral hemispheres. Plus, it’s simply relaxing. Psychologists have used it as a relaxing technique for years. So, if you’re feeling a little tense, put on some good music and pull out the crayons and coloring books.

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questions

q&a Jennifer, mom of 2 Q. My daughter loves fashion. She’s going to middle school this fall and I don’t want to have conflicts about what she wears. A. I’m glad you’re thinking about this because middle schools have dress codes. Before the back to school shopping begins, or even now, ask your daughter to go to the school website to find the Student Handbook and read the Dress Code. Then, ask her to tell you what the parameters are. She’ll be able to tell you about tank tops, skirts and shorts lengths, hair color and more. This way you are handing her the opportunity to be the expert on what’s okay and not. I guarantee your conflicts will be fewer. When shopping, if you have a question, you can say to her, “Hey, I’m not sure what the dress code said about these. What was it?” JoAnn Schauf, Parenting Coach | Your Tween and You | YourTweenandYou.com

Roberto, dad of 3 Q. My son isn’t reaching his full potential in his current school. How do I talk to him about considering a different school? A. As parents, we know what our kids could do with the right motivation and inspiration, and it can be frustrating when they don’t tap into that full potential. Boys in particular often need to find the right educational environment to do that. Talk to your son about the potential you see in him and the advantages a new school will bring. Together, look at the opportunities that he might have at the new school, from academics, athletics and co-curricular experiences to new friends and mentors ready to support him. A new school could be a gift that changes his life, so congratulations on starting a conversation that he will later thank you for. Tony McGeorge, President | Missouri Military Academy | missourimilitaryacademy.org

Bethany, mom of 1 Q. What should I do now to prepare my child for “Back to School?” A. After a long summer of fun and very little attention to academics, it’s a good idea to do some preparation to prevent the first few weeks back at school being hectic for both you and your child. Here is a simple piece of advice to help kids get back in the learning zone quickly! “Over the summer, sleeping schedules can go out the window, which can make early mornings and focus throughout the day problematic. Try gradually transitioning your kids by having them go to bed 15 minutes earlier each night and waking them up 15 minutes earlier each morning. This will ensure that they are alert and ready to learn when they arrive at school, and also save you a lot of stress in the mornings.” Gwen Cox, Director | Explore Horizons | explore-horizons.com

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JESSICA, MOM OF 2

ASKS...

Q. My sister’s child came back from camp with lice. Do I still have to worry? Or does the lice season end soon? A. Lice love every season and anyone with a head of hair. Not only are nits and lice so small that they can be easily missed, but it takes 4 to 6 weeks for itching symptoms to start. Once a child returning from camp is diagnosed, family and friends have already been exposed for weeks. That’s how lice outbreaks multiply. If you don’t find lice but are still concerned, switch the whole family to a daily lice defense shampoo to squash undetected infestation BEFORE it grows. A defense shampoo, like Vamousse, helps reduce the growth of an infestation contracted but not yet identified. Be proactive when you’ve been exposed – and defend the family! Amanda Sicvol Alliance Pharma Inc.

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AUGUST 2018

welovethis 3

JOGGO BAGS!

1 Send her to College with luxury soaps!

3 Keep it Safe

157 Luxury Soaps is raising the bar on skincare. Each 5oz bar has a 5-step skin treatment process in every wash (cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, even skin tone, and firm). All soap bars cure or age at least 4 weeks and up to 6 months to seal in the rich and luxurious natural oils as well as enhance the blends of essential oil fragrances. www.157luxurysoaps.com; $7.00 with 10% going to Equest, a charity serving the needs of children, women, and families.

With so many people coming in and out of your room in college, it is important to have a good hiding spot and this is the perfect sneaky little space. This safe looks like a real book and will blend seamlessly into your bookshelf. A metal safe with a key lock, two keys included. Inside storage area measures: 2 x 5.625 and complete book measures: 2.25 x 6.125 x 9.5 inches. We found it on Amazon, $15.00.

flap away. JOGGO is our

2 Fun and Functional!

JOurney to the Greater GOod,

These 13” canvas storage boxes are perfect for teens heading off to college, or kids getting ready for back-to-school. Store books, clothes, accessories in these colorful applique storage boxes. They feature 40+ designs including cities around the world, cupcakes, unicorns and more! They are wrapped in natural-tone, cotton canvas to complement any room with pops of color. Available nationally at Bed Bath & Beyond, Buy Buy Baby, Wayfair, and www.kaikaiash.com; $15.00-$20.00 each.

The BuddyPhone WAVE is the first ever wireless and waterproof volume limiting headphones designed specifically for kids. They come in four fun designs: Unicorn, Robot, Monkey and Bee and connect via Bluetooth with more than 24hour battery life! It features four distinct listening modes - Toddler Mode, Kids Mode, Travel Mode and StudyMode - allowing parents to control the volume and mode depending on environment. www. buddyphones.com; $89.99.

Crafted with passion and thoughtfully designed to meet all your needs. Made with quality canvas material for durability, which not only washes easily, but ages beautifully too! Everything you need is just a lift-of-the-

an activist brand born from a vision to educate refugee children around the world. We believe in the power of brands to drive social change and we do that by keeping our values at the heart of everything we do. We found it at www.joggobag.com

4 BuddyPhones WAVE

for $79.99.

win

Enter for a chance to win @ suburbanparent.com

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tamarasearsphotography.com

bookshelf

all levels of learning “There is no such thing on earth as an uninteresting subject; the only thing that can exist is an uninterested person” — Gilbert K. Chesterton

The Universal Sense

Little Worm, Big Worry

Queen for a Day

Every day, we are beset by millions of sounds; ambient ones like the rumble of the train and the hum of an air conditioner, as well as more pronounced sounds, such as human speech, music, and sirens. How do we know which sounds should startle us, which should engage us, and which should turn us off? Learn why we often fall asleep on train rides or in the car. Find out if there is really a musical note that can make you sick? Learn from research psychologist and sound engineer Seth Horowitz as he shows how our sense of hearing manipulates the way we think, consume, sleep and feel.

A Story about Worry that models how to handle worry and anxiety when things don’t turn out the way we expect. Your child can join Little Worm as he learns how to re-adjust his plans and work through his anxiety. Parents will enjoy the author’s “Special Note” to caregivers in the back of the book, which offers tips and recommendations for helping children in their care cope with feelings of anxiety.

The reader knows by page one of Queen for a Day that Mimi Slavitt’s three-year old son is autistic, but if anyone told her, she wouldn’t listen, because she doesn’t want to know—until at last Danny’s behavior becomes so strange even she can’t ignore it. After her son’s diagnosis, Mimi finds herself in a world nearly as isolating as her son’s, as she searches for miracles, begging for the help of heartless bureaucracies.

Laura Ann Elpers Pierce For Young Little’s

Seth Horowitz For Young & Old Adults

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Maxine Rosaler For Parents

The Five Star Man Dating Handbook In this book the author, T. Naomi Williams, discusses five categories that should be used to evaluate any person that you are considering dating or marrying. Understanding this rational evaluation will help you to avoid “unconscious dating” that is driven only by emotions. Learn how to eliminate much of the frustration that comes with dating by knowing who you are, how valuable you are, and by knowing what you want in a man. T. Naomi Williams

for women

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AUGUST 2018

Essential Items

Missing

from your College Packing List

BY PAM MOLNAR

hen my daughter went to college, we used every spare inch of the space in our SUV to carry her stuff. It seemed like she packed her whole wardrobe, enough cleaning supplies to maintain the White House and more snacks than I thought she could eat in a year. Even then, she discovered she needed a few more things – items that no one told us we should pack.

Your health insurance card – Yes, most campuses have a clinic onsite to diagnose Strep throat, UTIs and other simple illnesses. However, any prescriptions are dispensed off campus at the local Walgreens or Rite Aid. And, my daughter found on more than one occasion that the on-campus clinic was often over flowing with sick students, requiring her to visit the off campus urgent care.

2 3 4 5

Your family’s medical history – Mom isn’t going to be with her college student when she visits a doctor at school. Your student will need to know your family’s basic medical history so they don’t have to call home while filling out the doctor’s forms. The ability to cook simple meals – Most students are sick of the college cafeteria food by the second week and out of money for take-out items by the third week. Take advantage of the kitchen in the dorms by making simple pastas, egg dishes or a comfort food from home. Basic Kitchen Tools – No one wants to use the dorm kitchen tools (who knows the last time they were washed). Instead, buy a cheap pot, colander, large spoon, crockpot, can opener and whatever other item you need to make your favorite dishes.

Family passwords – My daughter texted me one night at 11:00 to ask for our cable company user name and password so she could watch The Bachelor on the ABC app. Many cable stations require proof that you are already paying for their service in order for you to watch the programs online.

Amazon Prime Account – Almost everything can be ordered through Amazon and shipped to you in two days including food, school supplies, books, clothes and toiletries. Amazon Prime Student is available for free for the first 6 months and then upgrades to a full membership for 50% normal rate.

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7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Rain gear – It rains on almost every college campus at least some of the time. Don’t overlook purchasing a large umbrella (big enough to cover you and your backpack), rain boots and a water proof jacket. No one wants to sit in a class in wet clothes.

Brita Water bottle – Disposable water bottles are surprisingly expensive in single purchases and hard to haul across campus in large cases. A Brita water bottle filters dorm room or water fountain water, saving you a ton of money and is easy on the environment. Entertainment that is not electronic – Give yourself a break from the technical world. Unwind with a coloring book or catch up on your favorite magazine. Playing card games or Frisbee is a great way to bond with new friends.

NEWBORNS

FA M I L I E S

SENIORS

214-202-6008 | lauren@julialaurenphotography.com www.julialaurenphotography.com

Checks – Much to our surprise, you cannot pay for everything on campus electronically or with cash. There were two instances my daughter’s freshman year that required me to overnight her blank checks. Simple tool box – You will need a screwdriver to open the back of your calculator battery compartment. Zip ties and duct tape are great for quick fixes. Other simple tools might be a plunger for the suite bathroom or a mini air pump for blowing up balls or bike tires.

First Aid Kit – Pack a simple bag of cold medicines, pain relievers, bandages and a thermometer. As any mother can tell you, everyone gets sick after the pharmacy has closed so it is best to stock up and be prepared. Mini Tupperware/Ziploc bags – These are great for storing extra food from your big lunch, taking snacks with you in your backpack or packing wet items in when traveling for a weekend trip.

Business attire – Most college students think they can wait until their Junior or Senior year to pack a suit or conservative skirt. However, some class projects, formal events or inductions require nicer clothes than a hoodie and yoga pants. Your own bank account - If you didn’t need one for your high school job, it’s time to get one. Most on campus jobs are paid via direct deposit. My daughter’s account is linked to ours (one way) so we can transfer money to her as needed.

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AUGUST 2018

hen my son’s second grade teacher told me that he often appeared to “check out” during the school day, I was concerned. But I wasn’t entirely surprised that my imaginative child would drift off to his dream world, an infinitely more colorful place than a math facts worksheet. Nonetheless, his daydreaming needed to be addressed. While many dreamers are creative and bright children, they may have trouble getting work done during the school day, struggle with paying attention to the teacher and forget to turn in homework. Worse, they can easily get pegged as slackers. “The tendency to daydream--though it may be one symptom of Attention Deficit Disorder--does not automatically equal a problem with paying attention when necessary or completing tasks,” writes Amy Fries, author of Daydreams at Work: Wake Up Your Creative Powers. “A child who enjoys daydreaming could well be a budding scientist, writer, artist or visionary entrepreneur.” Because daydreams play an important role in a child’s social-emotional development and creativity, you wouldn’t want to quash a child’s imagination. Rather, the goal is to help him channel the behavior to more appropriate times of the day. Daydreaming isn’t uncommon. A study conducted by Harvard psychologists found that we tend to daydream about 47 percent of the time. Some of our society’s most innovative change makers, artists and inventors

like Thomas Edison, Mark Twain and Albert Einstein were famous daydreamers. While the future may be bright for dreamers, it is necessary to find ways to help children engage in order to learn and enjoy success in a structured academic environment. “The daydreamer is usually fascinated by something that’s been said and is off in that world,” says Dr. Gay Lynn Pendleton Smith, assistant dean of the University of Phoenix College of Education. The secret to reaching a dreamer, she says, is to teach him how to engage outside of his imagination. “That’s really hard in today’s fast-paced world. Our children are connected to a handheld technology device that gives them one-on-one attention and then we put them in a classroom and ask them to focus on something and do something they haven’t done before. And that’s to engage with a whole group of people and to focus on one individual,” Smith says. How can you re-engage your daydreamer? Here are a few tips: Ensure quiet observation time. Consider if your child is getting enough time to play quietly on his own. Kids given regular quiet time are more likely to exhibit time management and problem solving abilities. Time alone also fosters creativity, self-confidence and independence. Plus, solitude gives kids the opportunity to drive their own play without having to compromise or go along with what the group demands. Seek physical and

Engaging the

daydreamer BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES

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creative outlets. “Outside activities will satisfy some of that dream mode so that when they get in the classroom they can engage and start to think,” Smith says. Activities like swimming, karate, art, theater or playing an instrument can nurture concentration skills and provide avenues for self-expression. Encourage note-taking. Talk to your child’s teacher about having him take notes or write down basic words or pictures describing what the teacher says. Older children can also write down thoughts that come up on an idea pad. That way they won’t lose the thought, but can continue to focus on the teacher or task at hand. Discuss seating arrangements. Talk to the teacher about seating your child toward the front of the classroom or just off to the side. By being in the middle of the action, her thoughts may be less likely to wander. Ask questions. Encourage your child to think of questions she can ask the teacher during instructional time. Also look for opportunities to connect with and listen to your child one-on-one, whether driving in the car or while engaged in a creative process like cooking or baking. Knowing that you are interested in her thoughts may help her feel less inclined to drift off. If your child continues to struggle with focus and paying attention, consult with your pediatrician.

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AUGUST 2018

timeout community calendar | august 2018

1 | WEDNESDAY August Dollar Days

9am-5pm Come out to the Dallas Arboretum during the month of August, where a discounted $2 general admission is offered to all guests, plus $5 parking and $2 admission to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, as well as budget-friendly menu items, including hot dogs and root beer floats, brownie sundaes, sodas and frozen pops. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org

10-11am Join us the first Thursday of each month, at the Irving Arts Center for stories and art! Explore new stories and fun art projects

3 | FRIDAY Dallas Mayor’s Back to School Fair

2 | THURSDAY JumpstART Stories & Art: Dog Days of Summer

during this creative story time that combines art and children’s literature. Create a take-home art project and then browse the galleries with your kids. All supplies provided. Pre-registration is required for groups of 10 or more. This Month’s Theme: Dog Days of Summer! We’ll beat the heat with stories about our cool canine friends! Kids ages 2 and up. Free. 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving www.irvingartscenter.com

Amanda

4 | SATURDAY Watermelon Festival

8am-2pm The Fair is free and open to the public. Free school supplies are made available to families with school-aged children who (a) reside in the City of Dallas or attend Dallas ISD schools and (b)

6 on August 8

who meet eligibility requirements. Eligible students can avoid long lines and guarantee their receipt of free school supplies at the Fair by: pre-registering for this event by mail, or pre-registering at one of our pre-registration events. Please visit website for more info. Free. Fair Park, 1300 Robert B Cullum Blvd, Dallas www.mayorsbacktoschoolfair.com

9am-5pm Besides having mounds of melons for picking out and taking home, enjoy a full day filled shopping the farmers market with family fun activities, including a barnyard petting zoo, watermelon-themed kids crafts, story time, watermelon games, tastings, demonstrations, dancing and live music on stage. Free.

Kensyn

Lillian

7 on August 3

12 on August 7

Shelby

Braeden

9 on August 21 9 on August 27

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

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920 S Harwood, Dallas www. dallasfarmersmarket.org

5 | SUNDAY Love Never Dies, The Phantom Returns

7:30-9:30pm The ultimate love story continues in Love Never Dies, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. It’s been 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House and the Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York. He has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love and musical protégée, Christine Daaé. Love Never Dies takes audiences on a thrilling roller coaster ride of intrigue, obsession and romance. See website for ticket information. Through August 5. Music Hall at Fair Park 909 1st Ave, Dallas dallassummermusicals.org

6 | MONDAY Martial Arts Summer Camp at Texas Karate Do

9am-3pm daily through August 10. Kids will enjoy games, projects, and field trips plus build self-confidence, respect, self-control and friendships. $195 for the week. 2700 N. O’Connor Rd, Irving, 972-258-8333 www. texaskaratedo.com. See ad in this issue.

Summer Camp at Irving Gymnastics

Join us in our new 18,000 square foot facility mornings 7:30am-12:30pm, afternoons 12:30-5:30pm or all day 7:30am-5:30pm. Each week has a different fun theme. Come for a week or one day. Camp runs through Aug 17. 1706 W. Irving Blvd #150, Irving. Register at www.irvinggymnastics.net. See ad in this issue.

7 | TUESDAY Junior Geologists

9-11:30am Visitors to Oliver Nature Park are often fo-

cused on the plants and animals that live there. But what lies beneath your feet? Join a naturalist for a geology-related lesson and a walk to explore the inorganic side of nature. 9–10am Fossil Finders for 5–8 years; 10:30–11:30am Paleontology for 9–14 years. Pre-registration is required. $7/$9 per student. Save $2 with MAC membership. 1650 Matlock Rd, Mansfield www. olivernaturepark.com

8 | 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. For kids ages 2–6 with an adult. Free. 4041 Waller Creek, Highland Village www.wholefoodsmarket.com

9 | THURSDAY QuakeCon

10am-5pm Quakecon is a multi-day, non-stop video game festival featuring a huge Bring Your Own Computer (BYOC) party. Along with the gaming, visit the Expo floor (Friday-Sunday) to see and play the latest games, watch panel discussions and enjoy tournaments and workshops. General admission is free but visit website to register. However, $75 gets you a guaranteed seat in the BYOC and a spot in any tournament you want to participate in. Through Aug. 12. Gaylord Texan Resort, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine www.quakecon.org

10 | FRIDAY Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes - Dallas

7-9pm Hey Marvel fans, this all new show unites some of Marvel’s greatest Super Heroes including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk and Black Widow against some of the most

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AUGUST 2018

timeout threatening villains! Witness cutting-edge special effects, aerial stunts and video projection in this incredible adventure. Costumes are not permitted for guests 14 years and older. See website for more information. Tickets from $20. Through August 12. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas www.marveluniverselive.com

11 | SATURDAY Vitruvian Salsa Festival

6-10pm Bring your dancing shoes to Vitruvian Park’s Amphitheater every Saturday in August for the Vitruvian Salsa Festival. Enjoy live bands, DJs, gourmet food trucks, and salsa lessons with a pro. Admission and parking are free. 3875 Ponte Ave, Addison www.vitruvianpark.com,

12 | SUNDAY 2nd Sunday Family Funday: Sculpt It

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1-4pm Irving Arts Center offers the perfect framework for adults and children to experience art together the 2nd Sunday of every month! Second Sunday Family Fundays hands-on art days give parents and children projects they can co-create, far from daily distractions. Find inspiration in the gallery exhibitions, holidays and seasons as families make art, friends and fun. This Month’s Theme: Sculpt It: Exploration of three-dimensional art with clay & other media. Free. 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving www.irvingartscenter.com

13 | 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 dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

14 | TUESDAY STEM Day on the GeO-Deck

11am-12pm Head to the GeODeck for adventures in math and science! Learn about technology, participate in experiments and have fun! Free with admission: $17 adults; $8 for children ages 4–12. Free for 3 and younger. Parking: $6–$22. 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas reuniontower.com

15 | WEDNESDAY School of Rock

7:30-9pm Presented by Dallas Summer Musicals. Based on the hit film, this hilarious new musical follows Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star posing as a substitute teacher who turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. See website for complete schedule. Tickets from $25. Through August 26. The Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Ave, Dallas dallassummermusicals.org

16 | THURSDAY Wind Sculptures In Motion -The Kinetic Art Of Lyman Whitaker At The Dallas Arboretum

9am-5pm Mark your calendar to see the hand-crafted wind sculptures at the Dallas Arboretum. As the most recognized creator of kinetic art in the world, Whitaker’s copper wind sculptures will be mesmerizing juxtaposed with the beautiful gardens. Free with paid admission. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org

17 | FRIDAY Texas Rangers vs Angels Eric Nadel Summer Reading Club Night

7-10:30pm Celebrate the end of summer with the Eric Nadel summer reading club game. All DFW summer readers are invited to take part in this celebration as your Texas Rang-

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AUGUST 2018

timeout ers take on the LA Angels. Purchase specially discounted tickets online and receive a commemorative The Hungry Caterpillar statue! Stay for the post game firework. Discounted tickets can be purchased online. 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington www.mlb.com/rangers/ tickets/specials#pop-culture

18 | SATURDAY

for a special Sensory Open Jump session. This event is reserved for children with all types of special needs and their families. All ages welcome. Space is limited. See website for requirements. Pre-pay for tickets online or pay at the door. $8 per child. Pump It Up of Dallas, 9201 Forest Ln Ste 100, Dallas www.pumpitupparty.com/ dallas-tx/other-ways-to-play/ special-events

Repticon Dallas

10am-4pm Repticon Dallas is a reptile and exotic animal showcase. Vendors are onsite with reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise, as well as live animal seminars and frequent free raffles for prizes. Repticon is exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone. Go to website to purchase tickets. Tickets start at $5. Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S Main St, Grapevine repticon.com

Texas Rangers vs Angels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Teacher Appreciation Night

7-10:30pm The Texas Rangers would like to invite all educators from north Texas to attend this special event. All Region 10 & 11 district teachers of the year will be recognized on the field before the game. Purchase your tickets at www. mlb.com/rangers/tickets/specials and receive a limited edition teacher appreciation t-shirt. 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington www.mlb.com

19 | SUNDAY Back To School Bash at Moorland Family YMCA

2-5pm Join us for fun food and fellowship. One backpack per child. Child must accompany parent/guardian to receive school supplies. Free. Moorland Family YMCA, 907 E Ledbetter Dr, Dallas www.ymcadallas.org

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Crybaby Matinee

1:30-3:30pm Relax at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark at these film screenings for parents and their babies. Regular matinee admission for adults; free for kids under 5. Angelika Film Center, 5321 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas www.angelikafilmcenter.com/dallas

22 | WEDNESDAY Last Day to Register for Fall at North Lake College

Classes begin Aug 27. 5001 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving, 972-273-3000. Enroll at northlakecollege.edu. See ad in this issue.

23 | THURSDAY Butterfly Tea Party Featuring Bonjour Butterfly

10:30am-12:30pm Enjoy fancy activities, crafts, tea and snacks, as you celebrate the book, Bonjour Butterfly, a book in the Fancy Nancy Series by Jane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. The party concludes with the noon butterfly release. See website for ticket pricing. Texas Discovery Gardens, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas txdg.org

20 | MONDAY

24 | FRIDAY

Sensory Open Jump

Cinderella

6-8pm Come to Pump It Up Dallas-Forest Lane on the third Monday of each month

21 | TUESDAY

8pm-9:30pm Experience the most beloved fairy tale of all time when the professional

2 years - 1st Grade

Now Enrolling (Limited Space)

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AUGUST 2018

timeout dancers of Texas Ballet Theater perform Cinderella. Check website for all show times. Tickets from $20. Through August 26. 2403 Flora St, Dallas texasballettheater.org/performance/cinderella

25 | SATURDAY Tejano August Music Festival

1pm-5pm An outdoor concert with live Tejano music. There will be DJ’s playing games with audience participation and prizes. The concert will take place in the Big Red Patio next to the family entertainment area where there is shopping, rides, games and fun for the whole family. Free. Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www. tradersvillage.com

26 | SUNDAY SummerFest Featuring The Smurfs

10am-5pm From fun family entertainment, unique culinary programs, to exciting outdoor activities including a 10-acre pool and lazy river playground. See website for full schedule. Hours of Operation vary by day and prices vary by activity. $15 parking, Gaylord Texan Resort, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine www.marriott.com/ gaylord-hotels/gaylord-texan-dallas-resort-vacations.mi,

27 | MONDAY First Ladies – Style of Influence

9am-5pm This new special 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

28 | TUESDAY Unicorns in Space!

7-8pm If you enjoy science fiction or fantasy, from space opera to high fantasy, steampunk to just plain weird, then join us for book talk with Unicorns in Space. West Irving Library Meeting Room, 4444 W. Rochelle Road, Irving www.cityofirving.org

29 | WEDNESDAY 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 . Open daily. 920 S Harwood, Dallas www.dallasfarmersmarket.org

30 | THURSDAY Tall Tales Story Time on the GeO-Deck

11-11:30am Join a fun story reading on the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck when a children’s librarian from Dallas Public Library will read books and lead songs for ages 2–5 who love to jump around. Held on the last Thursday of every month. Free with admission: $17 adults; $8 for children ages 4–12; free for 3 and younger. Parking $6$22. 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas reuniontower.com

31 | FRIDAY Friday Night Fireworks

9:30-10:30pm As part of Grapevine’s SummerBlast entertainment, watch the spectacular fireworks show over Lake Grapevine every Friday through August 31. Visit the website for more information and for suggested viewing locations. Free. www.grapevinetexasusa.com/events/summerblast/friday-night-fireworks

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.

AUGUST 2018 Let our advertisers know you found them in Irving Parent

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funstuff

college meal time Consider this; you are fully ready to eat healthfully and find fun in making meals right in your dorm or apartment, or shared house.

words of wisdom “The only thing more expensive than education is ignorance” — Benjamin Franklin

Oatmeal with an Upgrade!

You know how important oats are for your health, right? So what’s not to love about mixing water and oats in a bowl and microwaving it? Top it with some flax seed meal, chopped apples, or any other fruit or seeds. Cheap, easy and healthy!

GOTTA

LOVE ‘EM While on a road trip to take our daughter to college, our youngest 5 year old daughter wanted to know when we would be stopping; I replied, “when we get to Mississippi.” She was a bit confused and asked, “Who is she anyway?” — Hannah, mom of 2

Omelette in a Cup

Yea, sometimes we want something a bit savory; how about an omelette in a minute! Simply stir in two eggs, 1 tbs of milk (or almond milk), if you have time chop up (or buy these already chopped veggies) and add diced red bell pepper, cheese, diced green onions. Microwave for about a minute (or until the egg is cooked through) Simple, healthy and delish.

What’s the difference between an American student and an English student? About 3000 miles!

You kidding me? WORDS TO DESCRIBE L E A G M E R E S S T U C O M H X A E O J D K O U E R L E C E O X S V R E G E C D T

AUGUST 2018 Let our advertisers know you found them in Irving Parent

College Life

R N I N G O V R A L P L A N M O E A R C H A O O D Y C O H D T M P D H U A V I M l S O P A I V A D I L R S S A T E O E O M O T E V L V F L R I F T U R E F T O W T R B S L D N H A L N S E S E N D M G O S S I S U T O R I N G R

p n ADVISOR n DORM n EXAM n LEARNING n LECTURE n MAJOR n MEALPLAN n MOTIVATION n PROFESSOR n RESEARCH n ROOMMATE n SCHEDULE n STUDY n TUTORING

BabySitters of Dallas

214-692-1354 • 24/7

offers over 30 different shows for daycares/ schools/libraries & More!

Call www.babysittersofdallas.com Surrogate Grandmothers Serving DFW since 1955

DATE NIGHT • AFTER SCHOOL • SICK CHILD/TEACHERS DAY

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AUGUST 2018

wholesomeending

make a splash Are You At Your Sipping Point?

Are you Emotionally Eating?

Knowing that every system in the body relies on H2O, it’s important to drink enough water to keep completely hydrated. Drink what you feel is an adequate amount (until your thirst is satisfied and your urine is a light color.) Dark = Dehydrated

You know; the food quest to feed our feelings. During our childhood we

Bored with plain H2O? Try these recipes to get it down easier!

may have been comforted by our parents with soothing food; and these memories can turn into

Infuse it.

patterns of emotional

Put fruit slices, such as lemon, lime and orange in a pitcher of water and refrigerate.

eating. If you notice yourself wanting and craving food even if you’re not

Add coconut ice.

hungry, beware, and

Fill your ice cube tray with coconut water, then just pop the cubes into your glass to give water a nutty, slightly sweet taste.

maybe enjoy a walk, work on a puzzle, or add some oxygen to your brain with some deep breathing.

brush before bed...always! Next time you’re thinking about skipping brushing your teeth at night, run your tongue over your teeth and think about what you are going to let grow in your mouth overnight. Yuck!

AUGUST 2018 Let our advertisers know you found them in Irving Parent

tip Adding avocado to your morning omelet can bump up your levels of leptin, a hormone that regulates feelings of fullness.

2015