Irving Parent, October 2018

parent irving + las colinas

OCTOBER 2018 | FREE suburbanparent.com

inform | educate | inspire

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IRVING | LAS COLINAS | VALLEY RANCH

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the everything education art issue

Get Savvy About Added

Benefits to know

SUGAR

about Multiple Extra Curricular Activities

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Music Lessons and IQ YOU SHOULD KNOW

See what's on Our BookShelf

Pur-fect Attitude in Celebrating the Pink

Make tonight Chef Night

You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy books and that’s kind of the same thing.

Here's a way to get youthful looking skin all while giving back in the month of October.

A few tips to inspire your family to gather around the dinner table this month.

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maryshares PUBLISHER/EDITOR

for my mother

A

big warm Thank You to all of you who contacted me about my mother!

Your shared stories really touched me. I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness. I hope my experience will help others when having to face caring for a dying family member. My father and I , along with my 3 siblings cared for our mother for 2 months. She passed away on the date of her 61st wedding anniversary to my father, and at the exact time they were married (10am.) We truly do not know how she did that! Her funeral was as she requested! My sister made all the arrangements; and it was beautiful. We were able to reconnect with our cousins and aunts and uncles too. The last song after the High Mass, she requested, was “Oh Happy Day.” This song goes way back, but you may remember it from the movie Sister Act 2. This was a surprise to the congregation and everyone found themselves clapping their hands and singing. Click to watch the Sister Act version on YouTube and see if you don’t sing and clap too. Many of the church parishioners walked out of the church singing that song with true glory.

One last conversation with my mother began with, “you know, Mary Ellen, you would look good with a small bang.” I said, “You think so?” and she replied, “I do.”

And then we prayed. After, she held my face and told me she loved me and that I may want to do something about the tiny hairs on my chinny chin chin!

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.” – Dr. Seuss Yes, I now have a bang and I took care of the hairs on my chin!

suburbanparent.com

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Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Nimali Fernando Cheryl Maguire

CALENDAR EDITOR Paula Leonard

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Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com

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MEET OUR COVER KID ... Taylin, 4 years Taylin loves dancing, dress up, karate, swimming and anything sweet! She has a little brother named Carter (3). When she grows up she wants to be veterinarian and a farmer and own a thousand animals. She has one dog right now, and plans to ask Santa for another puppy this Christmas.

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

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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 music + IQ

say no to fido

No matter how much they beg, don’t give your pet any Halloween candy.

Chocolate is toxic to dogs.

The risk depends on how much chocolate is consumed, the type of chocolate consumed, and the weight of the dog. The toxicity is highest in cocoa powder, followed by unsweetened bakers chocolate, then semisweet, dark, and milk chocolate. Learn the signs of chocolate poisoning and if you suspect your dog has eaten some, contact your vet or Pet Poison Control immediately. Candy wrappers are dangerous too as they can get stuck in your pet’s digestive tract. So, keep an eye on your dog when your kids are surveying their loot. This is when the “leave it” command is critical. If you and your dog don’t already know it, learn it. It’s easy.

NEED A BUCK?

Feel the urge to clear out some space in your place before the holidays hit? Do it and see if you can make some holiday money while you’re at it. Facebook marketplace is a great place to sell large items locally like furniture. EBay is good for smaller items that are easy to ship like toys. Grab your nicer clothes and accessories and take them to a consignment shop. Donate anything that doesn’t sell. Donations We all know that to lose weight we have to are tax deductible so alconsume fewer calories than we burn. But be though it won’t be cash in careful. Consuming too few calories can actually your hand now, it’ll pay make you gain weight. Sure, you’ll lose weight at off later. Get ready! first, but you’ll gain it all and more back because it The holidays are will slow down your metabolism. A safer, more effective coming. way is to find out the total calories you should eat each

Experts agree that children who take music lessons develop a wide spectrum of skills besides just learning an instrument. Studies show that compared to their peers, children with musical training not only score higher on standardized tests (including Verbal IQ tests) they do better academically overall. And the earlier the lessons start, the higher the scores and the better the grades.

Learning an instrument requires discipline and focus. It also develops patience and perseverance. These skills are essential to effective study in all subjects. So, the evidence is clear.

Starting our children in music lessons early is a smart thing to do.

day to maintain your current weight and adjust from there.

Reduce the number of calories and increase the amount of activity to create a negative balance. But, don’t go less than 1200 calories - no matter how much you currently weigh. Try using a weight loss app to help keep you on track. And make sure you eat foods that are good for you. Go for healthy, not just skinny.

Hey, No Peeping!

Keeping your holiday gift list on your iPhone is a great way to make sure you always have it. It’s also a great way for the wrong people to sneak a peek at it. Like your kids.

Or your spouse. Well, did you know you could lock your notes? Yup! Just select the note you want to make private. Swipe left and choose the lock icon. Enter a password for it or turn on Touch ID to unlock with your fingerprint. Then go back to your note and click on the open lock at the top right to lock it. Now when you hand over your phone for whatever reason, you don’t have to worry. Your secrets (and shopping list) are safe.

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questions

q&a Jacqueline, mom of 1 Q. Summer’s over. Why would I take swimming lessons in the fall/winter?

A. The “off-season” is a great time to hone swimming skills. Our area is filled with indoor pools and waterparks that may be visited year round. Swim lessons outside of the summer season get children ready before outdoor fun begins, but also make indoor excursions a great way to spice up a winter afternoon. Learning to swim at an early age is a preventive measure that provides life-saving, life-long benefits. Learning to swim without the pressures of a full summer schedule allows children to enjoy and respect the water while learning aquatic risk management.

Tracey Panzer-Michelle | Floating Kiwi Swimming School | www.infantaquatics.com

Corin, mom of 1 Q. My first grader’s teacher is concerned that he may have ADHD. He can be active, but he’s also young. What should I do?

A. Almost all children have times when they seem overly active or have trouble focusing. Differentiating normal childhood activity from symptoms of ADHD can be very difficult. As children enter school, their teachers are an invaluable resource for identifying when these behaviors may be more pronounced than typical. If you or your child’s teacher have concerns, the best thing to do is to see your child’s pediatrician. Your pediatrician will rule out any underlying medical causes and guide you through the possible diagnosis and treatment options. The diagnosis of ADHD can be very scary.

Keep in mind that our goal is to help your child succeed. Having an accurate diagnosis is vital in structuring the support that your child needs..

Dr. Lisa Shumate | MD Pediatric Associates | www.mdpedi.com

Samantha, mom of 2 Q. What is the best age to start my child in dance classes?

A. Starting early has definite benefits. A dancer who has two to three years of combination/creative movement class at 3-4 years of age is more equipped to handle beginner ballet, jazz, etc. at ages 6 years and up. They are ready to approach the “study” of dance. Early starters understand barre work, center and across the floor exercises, structure and memorization. Advancement of technique is also secured and stabilized more easily before the onset of puberty. That being said, an 8-10 year old can be placed in beginning level classes with early starters, and can catch up quickly because they are able to apply mental skills to physical class work. Once the age of 11 and up is reached, technical dance (i.e. ballet, jazz, contemporary and modern) becomes harder to achieve. Boys can start at a much later age and still have successful dance careers.

Kathy Willsey, Executive Director | Dallas Repertoire Ballet | www.danceada.com

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JENNIFER

ASKS...

How can I help my child succeed in their music lessons?

A. Children excel at subjects that are important to their parents. So, the best way for your child to learn faster, go farther and have more fun with their music is to be involved. Attend lessons and participate in practice sessions.

Make practice part of their daily routine (like brushing their teeth). Be positive and encouraging. Tell them how much you enjoy hearing them play. And make music a part of family life.

Play music during dinner and attend live musical performances together now and then.

Have family performances once a week. Be sure and clap! Let them know what you expect and watch them excel.

Don’t threaten to end lessons if they resist practicing and avoid reward systems to increase motivation. Action is the issue, not motivation. Don’t give up unless you want your child to give up.

Joel Pipkin ChildPlayMusicSchool.com

Back to School Special

First Lesson FREE (a $37 value)

With this Coupon. Expires 10/31/2018

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Each product in the PUR attitude line is dermatologist tested and approved, backed by independent clinical studies, and follows the brand’s philosophy of “Safe Beauty,” avoiding harsh chemicals and known carcinogens, parabens, PEG’s, glycols, sulfates,

Enter for a chance to win @ suburbanparent.com

1 Adult Active Sitting Stool

3 My Big Art Show

This Made in the USA ergonomic stool encourages you to make small movements that help circulation, breathing, and keeping your mind more alert. And unlike a stability ball, ErgoErgo looks cool and won’t roll away. Strengthens your core, relieves back ache, and encourages upright posture, and much more! We found it at thegrommet.com.

Starting at $100.00

It’s a card game and a book. The objective is to collect three or four of a kind. It’s not complicated, but it is fun - and educational too. Each card features a painting, the movement the painting belongs to (i.e. impressionism) and its theme (i.e. still life). While players/curators work to put on an “art show,” they end up learning about some pretty famous works for art. The book has info about the artists and paintings, plus alternate games to play. Fun for 5 year olds, and up. Find it at Barnes & Noble, $16.00

2 Cheese Storage Do it the right way! Know that plastic wrap is not the right way. Artisanal cheeses are best kept in a cheese storage container.

The Cheese Vault, is the right way to store your favorite cheeses. It’s designed to let cheese breathe, which is the key to prolonging its freshness and preserving its flavor. Dishwater safe! We found it at thegrommet.com $29.95

4 Fall Pumpkins Celebrate the fall season and Thanksgiving with these cute hand-lettered craft pumpkins! Each pumpkin is made customizable to your family name or favorite quote! These will be sure to add a touch of festive fun in any home or front patio!

We found it on etsy! LittleFoxLetteringCo, $20.00

petro-chemicals, synthetic fragrances and artificial dyes.

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Giving Back PUR attitude will donate $25 to National Breast Cancer Foundation for each purchase of Wild Durian Fruit Peel for the month of October.

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2 years - 1st Grade

Now Enrolling (Limited Space)

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bookshelf tamarasearsphotography.com

gather around You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy books and that’s kind of the same thing.

– Anonymous

Rock Art Handbook, Techniques and Projects for Transforming Stones In this book Samantha shares her rock art tips and tricks and offers fun and creative projects to recreate at home. You and your child will learn how to use puffy paint, acrylics, oil pastels, alcohol inks, art pens and more! Remember, art does not have to be complicated to be beautiful. It just needs to be something you love. Let go of what you think art has to look like and just enjoy the process. Also, consider that rock-art is a great way to spread kindness – simply create a positive message on rocks and leave them as gifts!

Finding Langston, a Novel A fast read for a middle grade reader. Stories are important to learn, and some change lives. When the young Langston’s mother dies, his father moves them from rural Alabama to Chicago’s brown belt.

Langston finds the local public library that becomes a respite for him. While looking for books, he discovers another Langston, a poet. He learns that this poet actually inspired his mother to name her only son with the same name!

Lesa Cline-Ransome For Ages 8-12

Samantha Sarles For All Ages

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Secret Dallas: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure Hey, how about a trip through the weird, the wry, and the wonderfulness of the Big D! Secret Dallas will answer questions about the Big D you never knew you had. Everything from Cockroach Hall of Fame to the ceaseless failed attempts to navigate the Trinity River, to the invention of the computer chip and German chocolate cake! Dallas is the birthplace of the whimsical, the wistful, and the profound.

Mark Stuertz For Families

Give to Get: A Senior Leader’s Guide to Navigating Corporate Life If you are looking to master the corporate culture, then this book is for you. No matter your age, you will benefit from Agarwal’s perspective of the corporate journey. Agarwal shares information like “the C-Suite Cheat-Sheet, New guy navigation, Find your compass and more! There is not a manual on corporate life; so read about the essential lessons from Vishal Agarwal!

Vishal Agarwal

for adult readers

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VO NO TE W!

family healthcare VOTE NOW @ suburbanparent.com family healthcare Submit your nominations by October 17 and be entered for a chance to win a 2 Night Stay at the Gaylord Texan Resort.

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Winner will be announced 10/18 on our Facebook pages.

Wear a Smile; it fits all sizes!

• Board Certified Pediatric Dentist • Now accepting most PPO, Chip and Medicaid • IV sedation and hospital privileges

www.IrvingKidsDentist.com

Elizabeth Joseph, DDS Pediatric Dental Specialist

972-252-9557 3108 N. MacArthur • Irving, TX 75062

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BY DR. NIMALI FERNANDO

5 Ways for Parents to Become Savvy About Hidden

10 parents were asked about how much added sugar their child consumes each day, there’s a good chance that at least 9 of them will have no clue or will underestimate it. In fact, research published in the International Journal of Obesity reported that 92 percent of the parents surveyed in the study underestimated the added sugar content in foods and beverages. The study also showed that kids are more likely to be overweight when their parents are misinformed about sugar in their kids’ diet. Since sugar intake is associated with an increased

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5 wAYs

continued

risk of being overweight and parents are a child’s nutritional gatekeeper, it is essential to know the ins and outs of sugar.

“Added sugars have infiltrated our lives in a pervasive way, making it crucial that parents know how to identify it and how much is too much,” says Dr. Nimali Fernando, a pediatrician who founded The Doctor Yum Project. “Without solid information regarding sugar intake, we may be setting our children up for possible health problems later.”

According to the American Heart Association, children should consume less than 25 grams of added sugar per day, which is equivalent to 6 teaspoons, and children under the age of 2 should not have any sugar-added foods or beverages.

Parents are often confused when it comes to sugar intake with their children. Sugar that comes in the form of whole fruit is generally good, while added sugar is what parents need to really watch.

Added sugars are those sugars that have been used by the food industry to enhance a food’s flavor. Even some foods that seem healthy may contain “hidden” added sugars, making it important for parents to get to know the terms and become label readers.

Here are 5 ways for parents to become savvy about the sneaky ways food companies add sugar to foods:

Confusing food labels Figuring out how many added teaspoons are in a recipe is not straightforward. First, food labels report sugar in grams.

So remember this equation the next time you look at a label: 4 grams of sugar = 1 teaspoon of sugar. To further complicate things, food labels historically did not break down added sugar with naturally occurring sugar. So when we look at a label on a sweetened fruit yogurt, it’s often unclear how much of the sugar comes from natural milk sugars and fruit versus how much extra sugar the food company has added. Luckily, by the end of 2018 most food labels will be updated to break down total vs added sugar which will make reading a label more straightforward.

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Small portion sizes A favorite food may look like it has appropriate sugar per serving, but typically the serving size is much smaller than what you may actually eat. Take the example of cereal. A typical serving size for cereal may be a half a cup or less than a cup per serving, which is much smaller than most people will actually eat (especially if it’s really sweet, because you are likely to eat more). If there are two teaspoons of sugar in a serving, and you can eat three servings, that 2 teaspoons quickly multiplies to 6 teaspoons, the recommended daily limit for a child.

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Sweetening with “healthier” sugars Sweeteners like honey, agave and maple syrup may make a food appear healthier, but that doesn’t mean they actually are. While they may be more natural than refined sugar, manufacturers are still adding sugar to a food that may not need extra sweetness. Don’t be fooled by healthier sounding added sweetener ingredients.

Children’s sugar intake is a predictor of obesity; parents play a key role in management.

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Using sneaky names for sugar Sugar can be spotted with as many as 61 different names. Sugar’s many code names include: rice syrup, dextrose, maltose and barley malt, and high-fructose corn syrup. This is a great tactic, as companies are required to list foods by weight in decreasing order. By listing sugar with more than one name, companies may be able to bury sugar further down on the list, making it seem like there is less.

Know the sneakiest foods Be aware of and read the labels carefully on such foods as granola bars, breakfast cereals, yogurt, fruit snacks, and juice. Juice is trickier because technically the sugar in juice is considered naturally occurring. However, it’s more like a processed food. There is nothing natural about a child drinking the equivalent of 5 apples worth of sugar. And when we drink apple juice, there is no fiber to help slow down the absorption the way there is when we eat an apple. Skip the juice and stick with water for hydration and whole fruit for fiber and nutrients instead.

Childhood is where many of our food habits are formed, making it that much more important that we help our children learn to sensibly navigate the nutritional landscape.

Dr. Fernando, is also the co-author of the book “Raising a Healthy, Happy Eater: A Parent’s Handbook” (The Experiment, October 2015).

To learn more, visit the site at: www.doctoryum.org.

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timeout community calendar | october 2018

1 | MONDAY State Fair of Texas

Photo credit: Kevin Brown/State Fair

10am-9pm Celebrate all things Texan with more than 100 daily attractions offering a wide variety of entertainment, art, agriculture, history, and cuisine. Commemorating the significant Texans and Texas innovations that have helped influence our current way of life and looking forward to the state’s next era of pioneers, the Fair is proud to introduce its 2018 theme of “Celebrating Texas Innovation.” Runs through Oct 21. Fair Park, Dallas. www.bigtex.com

Autumn at the Arboretum

9am-5pm The fall festival is a spectacular show of color with 4,500 of fall’s favorite flowers, along with 150,000 more stunning, fall blooming plants, and the Pumpkin

Village, featuring more than 90,000 pumpkins, squash and gourds. In its 13th year, the Pumpkin Village in Pecan Grove features the imaginative theme, “The Adventures in Neverland,” full of the figures and stories. Free with paid admission. Through Nov. 21. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org

First Ladies – Style of Influence

9am-5pm Final day for this exhibit which 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. Tickets from $13. George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas www.bushcenter.org

2 | TUESDAY Ultimate Dinosaurs at the Perot

10am-5pm See dinosaurs come to life! In Ultimate Dinosaurs, you’ll get access to rarely seen specimens from the other side of the world .

Be transported to prehistoric times through cutting-edge technology, where you can explore the breathtaking characteristics of these exotic species through hands-on activities. Exhibit runs through January 6. Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St, Dallas www. perotmuseum.org

3 | WEDNESDAY Green Meadow Petting Farm

9:30am-4pm The Green Meadows Petting Farm provides a fun, safe atmosphere

thru oct 21

15 Leila

Will

Regina

6 on Oct 2

8 on Oct 7

10 on Oct 10

Samantha

Khija

Jaxon

Isabella

7 on Oct 12

5 on Oct 25

7 on Oct 27

8 on Oct 28

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

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for kids and adults alike to learn and experience the joys of animals! For the price of admission visitors of all ages can enjoy a hands-on and up-close experience with: Over 150+ animals, cow milking, pig racing, wagon rides and take home a free pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. Park Rd 1, Grand Prairie www.greenmeadowsevents.com/grand-prairie-texas-petting-farm

4 | 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 take-home 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

Red River Celebrity Softball Game at Dr Pepper Ballpark

7-9pm Two days before the Red River Showdown in the Cotton Bowl, UT and OU celebs battle on the ballfield in a star-studded, slow-pitch softball game. Bring the whole family out for a memorably fun evening. Proceeds benefit the Toby Keith Foundation and the Roger Clemens Foundation. Tickets start at $5. 7300 RoughRiders Trail, Frisco www.rrcsg.org

5 | FRIDAY After Dark in the Park

5-9pm After Dark in the Park is a family-friendly fall festival that highlights the unique environmental education programs of River Legacy Living Science Center through a variety of games, crafts and activities. Activities include a pumpkin patch, animal encounters, storytelling, as well as a unique children’s area with games, crafts and more for children under 10 years

of age. Admission is $8 per person for ages 3 and older. Through Oct. 7. 701 NW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington www.riverlegacy.org/afterdark-in-the-park

6 | SATURDAY 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. www.mend. org/events/2018/10/6/2018dfw-walk-to-remember

DFW Kid’s Directory Fall Fest 2018

10am-2pm This fun-filled one day family event is to celebrate everything to fall.

This year’s free family event will include a pumpkin painting, balloon artists, face painting, live entertainment, and the perfect backdrop for those fall photos.

The event is free, but please bring a non-perishable food donation for North Texas Food Bank. Dallas Farmers Market, 940 Harwood Dr., Dallas www.dallasfallfest.com

Autism Awareness Family Celebration

9-11am The Dallas Museum of Art will be open early for children with autism and their families to enjoy art together in a fun environment. Participants can participate in staffled gallery experiences and art-making activities in the studio. October 6 theme: Fun and Games. The program is free, but reservations are required and space is limited. See website for more information. 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas www.dma.org/programs-access-programs-visitors-autism/autism-awareness-family-celebration

Cottonwood Art Festival

10am-7pm Now in its 49th year, the semi-annual Cottonwood Art Festival is an art show with fine art created by more than 200 artists from around the world.

Browse the booths and meet

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timeout the artists. Visit the Lakeside Courtyard for live music, food and beverages. Kids can create their own masterpieces in the children’s art area.

Free. 1321 W. Beltline Rd. Richardson www.cottonwoodartfestival.com

7 | SUNDAY Treasure Island Reimagined

1:30-3pm Step into a world of dramatic sword fights, thrilling acrobatics, and magical shadow puppetry as Dallas Children’s Theater, Prism Movement Theatre, Kathy Burks Theatre of Puppetry Arts, and Lone Star Circus® come together to present a wildly original version of this iconic tale. Grab your costume and come aboard the ship. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Tickets start at $23. Dallas Childrens Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas www.dct.org

8 | MONDAY Hall’s Pumpkin Farm and Corn Maze

3-8pm Open throughout the Fall season. The Hall family celebrates the harvest by inviting you to visit their farm.

Pick out a pumpkin and take a journey in a hay-filled trailer pulled by a genuine farm tractor. The corn maze is two acres of towering corn stalks surrounding the paths of unbelievable twists, turns and dead ends. $5 admission (cash only). Visit the website for hours of operation. Free admission. Corn maze and hayrides are $5 each (cash only). 3420 Hall Johnson Road, Grapevine www.hallspumpkinfarm.net

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10 | WEDNESDAY Preview Morning at The Highlands School

8:30-10am. Visit our school for PreK3 -12th Grade. 1451 E. Northgate Dr., Irving. RSVP at Admissions@TheHighlandsSchool.org.

972-554-1980. www.thehighlandsschool. org. See ad in this issue.

11 | THURSDAY NorthPark Presents Courtside: Photographs by Bill Bamberger

NorthPark Center, in partnership with the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University and artist Bill Bamberger, presents Courtside: Photographs

by Bill Bamberger, an exhibition of vibrant color photographs that capture a variety of basketball hoops around the world. Through January 1. Level One between Burberry and Louis Vuitton. 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas www. northparkcenter.com

12 | FRIDAY Cats

7:30-9:30pm Cats is set amongst a larger-than-life junkyard playground and is alive with purr-fect felines.

The Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year—the night of the Jellicle Ball. Tickets start at $12. Through November 3.

Artisan Center Theater, 444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www.artisanct.com

9 | TUESDAY

13 | SATURDAY

Arlington Pumpkin Patch

Discovery Days at Perot Museum

11am-8pm The Pumpkin Patch features over 5,000 different pumpkins and gourds to choose from, a story time reading corner for children, photo opportunities, games, decoration stickers, and fun activities for all ages.

It’s a great place for a family picnic, games and photo

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shoots. Free. First Christian Church, 910 S Collins St, Arlington www.firstchristianarlington.org/pumpkin-patch

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 check out dynamic performances each month with guest scientists, educators

ÂŽ

First Lesson FREE Up to a $37 value. With this coupon.

Expires 10/31/18

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timeout and artists. Price included in general admission of $19, $12 for youth 2-17, $13 for seniors 65 and older, and free for children under 2. 2201 N Field St, Dallas www.perotmuseum.org

14 | SUNDAY Oak Cliff Lively Fest

11am-8pm Family-friendly Reggae/Roots inspired festival showcases multicultural arts, music and diversity in the OC. The 5th annual outdoor gathering will bring together families of all ethnicities for a fun day of DJs, live performances, drum circles, kids zone, food and vendors.

Free. Lake Cliff Park, 300 E Colorado Blvd, Dallas www. oakclifflivelyfest.com

15 | MONDAY Flower Mound Pumpkin Village

9am-7pm Visit the Flower Mound Pumpkin Patch at Double Oak Ranch for a fun outing with the kids! You will find hundreds of pumpkins to choose from, cornstalks, hay bales, baked goods, and refreshments. Parking is $5 during the week and $10 on the weekends. Visit the website for all the details.

Free. Open through October 31. Double Oak Ranch, 5100 Cross Timbers Rd., Flower Mound www.flowermoundpumpkinpatch.com

16 | 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

17 | WEDNESDAY Movie Night at West Village

7:30-9pm The wildly popular West Village Movie Night is back, with outdoor screen-

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ings of family friendly flicks.

Grab some folding chairs or a blanket and head to the stretch between Mi Cocina and the Magnolia Theatre.

But before the opening sequences appear, live musicians, and DJs are performing starting at 7 pm. October 17: The Greatest Showman.

Free. 3699 McKinney Ave, Dallas www.westvillagedallas.com

18 | THURSDAY State Fair $9 Thursdays

10am-9pm Bring an empty 20 oz. bottle of any Coca-Cola product to the State Fair of Texas gate and receive a $9 admission ticket. One bottle per person. discount may not be combined with any other offers. Fair Park, Dallas. www. bigtex.com

19 | FRIDAY Dallas Fan Days

4-8pm Get immersed in pop culture paradise at the threeday Dallas Fan Days. Whether your thing is comics, sci-fi, gaming, horror or all of the above, Fan Days has you covered. Expect cosplay contests, celebrity panels, internet personalities, autograph opportunities, Fan Days Family Zone, themed activity rooms and more. Tickets start at $20. Irving Convention Center, 500 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving www.dallasfandays.com/en/home.html

20 | SATURDAY Tejano Music Festival

12-4pm The event will feature live Tejano music featuring some of your most popular Tejano bands. 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.

Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www. tradersvillage.com

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timeout 21 | SUNDAY Sensory Sundays at Crayola Experience Plano

BabySitters of Dallas

9-11am Join this special morning designed for kids and families with sensory needs to experience the arts and craft activities inside the Crayola Experience Plano attraction. The attraction is open to everyone at 11am. $21.99 plus tax per person.

Free for 2 and younger.

6121 W Park Blvd a100, Plano www.crayolaexperience. com/plano

22 | MONDAY .

The Fabric of Opera

214-692-1354 • 24/7

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

DATE NIGHT • AFTER SCHOOL • SICK CHILD/TEACHERS DAY

We’re Searching for

COVER MODELS

10am-9pm The Fabric of Opera presented by The Dallas Opera and NorthPark Center is a special exhibit of historic Dallas Opera costumes on display for the public at NorthPark Center on level one between Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. Come see this exhibit of 22 rarely-displayed historic costumes from the collection of The Dallas Opera Wardrobe Department.

Runs through November 4.

Free. 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas www.northparkcenter. com/events/northpark-thefabric-of-the-opera

23 | TUESDAY Willy Wonka Jr.

SuburbanParent.com

We’re looking for kids from each city we serve to have a chance to be on one of our Covers. Take the first step by emailing us at covers@suburbanparent.com for more information.

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12-1:15pm Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR. follows enigmatic candy manufacturer Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka’s rules in the factory – or suffer the consequences. Through November 3. Artisan Center Theater, 444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www.artisanct.com

24 | WEDNESDAY Toddler Storytime

10:30-11am This interactive storytime includes stories, songs and fingerplays for our

young library goers (ages 1-3 years) and caregivers. Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail, Irving www.cityofirving. org/2148/Valley-Ranch-Library

25 | THURSDAY Young Adult Library Leaders (Y’ALL)

4:30-5:30pm For teens in grades 6-12. Do you have big ideas and a creative flair?

Join Y’ALL and earn volunteer hours for helping the Valley Ranch Library plan and implement teen programs! Socialize with friends and help make the library a more teen-friendly place.

Meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. Pick up an application at the Information Desk. Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail, Irving www.cityofirving. org/2148/Valley-Ranch-Library

26 | FRIDAY Friday Night Library Grimm Carnival and Haunted Fairytale Forest

7-10pm On this spook-tacular night, Grimm fairytales come alive at the library! Begin with a Trunk-or-Treat from 7 to 8 p.m., craft and game stations from 7 to 9:30 p.m. and tours through the Haunted Fairytale Forest* from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Browse the library’s collection and check out haunting reads until 10 p.m. *The Haunted Fairytale Forest is not recommended for babies or children who scare easily.

Limited to one tour per person. South Irving Library, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving www.cityofirving.org

27 | SATURDAY Dia de los Muertos Festival

11am-4pm Celebrate the Latin American tradition of honoring loved ones who have passed on from the mortal world at the Latino Cultural Center. Hands-on arts activities including face painting and making sugar skulls are part of the fun. Aztec dancers will perform and a com-

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

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munity art exhibit and Dia de los Muertos altars will be on display in the galleries. Free.

Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak St. Dallas www.lcc. dallasculture.org

44th Annual Harambee Festival

11am-5pm One of the longest running community events established in Southern Dallas returns for its 44th year, themed “Unity in the Community.” Harambee is an East African Swahili word meaning “Let’s Pull Together” or Unity.” Harambee includes healthy treat bags, arts and crafts, bounce houses, health screenings, a safety fair, balloon release, Unity March parade, vendors and specialty foods. Free. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 2922 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas www.harambeedallas.org

28 | SUNDAY A Wrinkle in Time

1:30-3pm This groundbreaking sci-fi/fantasy tale captures the classic struggle between good and evil, the power of love, and the value of individuality. Teens can save the world! Recommended for ages 10 and up. Tickets $16. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas www.dct.org

We’re giving away Tickets!

29 | MONDAY Autumn at the Arboretum

9am-5pm A spectacular show of color with 4,500 flowers, fall blooming plants, and the Pumpkin Village. Plus, don’t miss the Children’s Adventure Garden. Free with paid admission. Through Nov. 21.

Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org

Email us at winthis@suburbanparent.com

30 | TUESDAY Family Storytime

11am-12pm All ages are invited to listen to stories, sing songs and participate. Confirm library times by contacting your library.

Free. Irving Public Library- East, 440 S. Nursery Road, Irving www.cityofirving.org

31 | WEDNESDAY Family Friendly Haunted House

Read the Digital Editions on our WEBSITE. SuburbanParent.com

7-10pm This is a free 10 room haunted house. Kids ages 4-8 come through from 6-7pm and at 7pm the ghouls enter the house for the preteens.. Then by dark 8 pm to 10 the house gets to be more of a teen and up scare.

2324 Norwich Ln., Grand Prairie www.eventbrite.com/e/ free-family-halloween-haunted-house-tickets-496738407 95?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

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.

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funstuff

save the seeds

Different size seeds may take different lengths of time to cook.

The seeds will change from the wet, grayish color to more of an opaque white then golden brown as they become fully roasted.

You’ve never had roasted pumpkin seeds like this!

After the pumpkin has been carved, try this simple trick to get rid of the slimy goo and guarantee a truly tasty treat.

What you need...

- Pumpkin Seeds - 2 teaspoons Olive Oil - Kosher Salt - Seasonings to taste

Nutritional Facts

What you do...

Calories: 107

- Scrape the seeds out of the pumpkin.

- Rinse the seeds to remove the pumpkin particles and any strings.

- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

- Bring to boil about 2 cups of water to 1/2 cup of seeds.

- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of water and boil for 10 minutes.

- After boiling, return seeds to a colander and rinse.

- Put the seeds in a bowl. Toss with 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil to coat the seeds and add salt and pepper to taste.

- Spread seeds in a single layer on a baking tray in the upper portion of the oven.

- Bake until they begin to brown, between 10-15 minutes.

- Leave the seeds to cool on a rack, then enjoy!

You kidding me?

Total Fat: 9g Sodium: 1mg Potassium: 129mg Carbohydrates: 1g Protein: 4g

words of wisdom You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.

— Eleanor Roosevelt

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GOTTA

LOVE ‘EM Our grandkids often start the morning with a dance party.

This morning to calm the chaos, Papa said he would teach them the hula. Grace, 4, immediately yelled, “Alexa, play Hula the dogs out woof, woof!”

So now, lots of jumping with raised arms is the new hula.

— Susan, Grandma of 2

wholesomeending

who’s cooking?

Benefits of whole grains?

Tips to Get the Family at the Dinner Table

Well, we are happy to

It’s not always easy to get the whole family together to enjoy a meal – we get that! However we may be able to help you out with a few tips to inspire your family to gather around the dinner table this month and beyond.

share a few benefits of this High Fiber, Gluten-free Ancient Grain called Sorghum. Its health benefits include more antioxidants relative to other grains

Make it Chef Night!

and fruits; and medical

Pick a new head chef for each family chef night (maybe once or twice a month.) Let them choose the meal and you can help with groceries. Maybe start with the oldest sibling. A 10 to 12 year old should be able to jump right in. However, adult supervision is necessary. Make sure they can follow kitchen rules: using knives safely; protecting hands with appropriate potholders, preparing oven or microwave temperatures and settings. Have them find simple recipes on

evidence shows that whole grains reduce risks of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and more. Go to www. wholegrainscouncil.org for more information.

Sorghum can be eaten like popcorn, ground into flour for baked goods, or even brewed into beer.

Pinterest. Go Chef!

bone health According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, your child’s bone health should be on your radar. Osteoporosis is not only for older adults. Keep your kid on target. Children build about 40% of their bone mass by the ages of 9 to 14 years, and reaching 90% of the peak bone mass by age 18 (for girls) and age 20 (for boys).

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tip Hey, ladies! Lose the cola; studies show that women that drink soda daily have lower bone mineral density than those who indulge only once a week.

2015