Suburban Parent ND, April 2017 by Suburban Parent

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the special needs issue

25 TO-DOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

EXCEPTIONAL CHILD?

BEFORE THEY ARE GROWN

CONSIDER SUMMER CAMP

Happy Easter

SEE WHAT WE LOVE THIS MONTH!

BE A SCAVENGER!

SEE OUR FUN STUFF NATURE HUNT p. 28

CHECK OUT OUR TIME-OUT EVENTS! #dontmissathing

maryshares

Bloom a New You!

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

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

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR Francie Morin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lara Krupicka Ashley Talmadge

CALENDAR EDITOR

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

Georgina Torres

seed planted in your heart.

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

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

Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com

AD DESIGNERS Alex Canales So Hee Lee Won

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Denise Miller Georgina Torres Julie Lesser Williams

AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION

Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

ACCOUNTING

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

Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

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EDITORIAL

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PHONE/MAIL

972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063

MEET OUR COVER KID... SUNDAY, 4 YEARS Playing with dolls is our cover girl, Sunday’s favorite activity. Soon, she’ll get to play with a real one when her baby sister arrives this summer. In the meantime, she keeps busy with her brother, Solomon (3) and dog, Taffy. She also enjoys ballet. She plans to be a baby doctor someday.

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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.

NOW ENROLLING

• Children study the classical art during the Art Encounter Class • Music • Natural outdoor learning environment • Neighborhood Setting • Science Curriculum in a well equipped Discovery Lab • An open Indoor Gymnasium/Activity Room • iPads in Primary Classrooms • Several extracurricular activities - Art, Computers, Dance, Soccer, Football, Basketball, Gymnastics, Private Piano Lessons etc.

OPEN HOUSE April 22, (Saturday), 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Does your child miss the public school birthday cut off? Come see our accelerated Pre-K & Private Kindergarten. Experience the true Montessori difference, a proven success with development for over 100 years.

11600 Teel Parkway Frisco, TX 75034

(972) 334-9444

www.eldoradomontessori.com

Tour our Campus from 9-11 AM Daily

shouldknow

nurtured by nature

dirt be gone

Camp is more than just goofy games and silly songs

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

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

I am...

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

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

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

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

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your journey begins here...

where experience meets medical expertise featuring

A Medical Keynote with Dr. Will Cole

Breakthrough Therapies with Dr. Ernesto Gutierrez

A Keynote Panel led by Jenny McCarthy

questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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AMELIA, MOM OF 1

ASKS...

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

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

PICK ME UP

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

1 Traveling Dogs

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

3 No Mess Fun

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

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

2 SentioCHEWS

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

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

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4 Citrus Spray

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APRIL 2017

BY ASHLEY TALMADGE

kids with special d e e n needs camptoo S

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

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

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

DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT

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

DO YOUR RESEARCH

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

ASK QUESTIONS AND GET COMFORTABLE

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

PREPARE YOUR CHILD

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

THINK ABOUT FUNDING

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

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25 Things to Do Before They’re Grown 6

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

BY LARA KRUPICKA

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

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

Take them to meet a favorite author or sports star.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Serve in a soup kitchen or homeless shelter.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Whatever

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try skiing - water, cross country, or downhill.

pictured left to right

• Casey Drake, MD • Lynne Day, MD • Virenda Wood, MD • Nicole Laird, MD • Nadine Wakim, MD • Grace Pecson, MD • Tricia Dudek, MD • Velouette Zavadil, MD

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timeout community calendar | april 2017

1 | SATURDAY Urban Naturalist: Natural History of the Spring Creek Nature Area 8:30am. All ages. Come along for a guided nature / educational walk in Spring Creek Nature Area. Foxboro Park, 2600 N. Plano Road, Richardson, www.cor.net

9th Annual Prom Closet St. Andrew UMC

ATMOS Energy Presents Jamming With Jason

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

9-12pm. Come to the 9th Annual Prom Closet to select a dress and accessories, all at no cost. Girls must be present to select their dresses/ accessories. St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano 972-380-8001 www. standrewumc.org

ATMOS Energy Presents ACME Magic with Brett Roberts

ATMOS Energy Presents Chinese Storytime with Linda Li!

2 | SUNDAY

10:30am. Storytime told in Mandarin Chinese and English led by Linda Li of the Park Cities Chinese School. NorthCourt@NorthPark Center, Dallas 214-671-1381 www. dallaslibrary2.org

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

Day Out With Thomas: The Friendship Tour 2017

9am. Enjoy this special opportunity to take a ride with the classic storybook engine at regional heritage railroads across the country. Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 709 S. Main

St., Grapevine 817-410-3123 www.grapevinetexasusa.com

3 | MONDAY Homeschool Day at the Zoo 9am-3pm. A day especially for homeschooling families! Hands on STEM activities community partner activity booths & zoo admission. Dallas Zoo, 650 RL Thornton Freeway, Dallas 469-5547300 www.dallaszoo.com

4 | TUESDAY â&#x20AC;&#x153;America the Beautifulâ&#x20AC;? by Linda Smith

11am-6pm. Enjoy a variety of paintings in an effort to capture the splendor of nature from coast to coast. Giddens Gallery of Fine Art, 624 S. Main St., Grapevine 817-488-8600 www.grapevinetexasusa.com

5 | WEDNESDAY Shake, Rattle, & Read Story Time

6:30pm. Frisco Library, 6101

8 A id 9 on Maan rch 26

Julia 3 on April 20

R o y c eil 2 5 pr 8 on A

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

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timeout Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco www.friscolibrary.com

6 | THURSDAY Dallas Blooms: Flower Power

9am-5pm. The Southwestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest spring floral festival. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas 214-5156500 www.dallasarboretum.org

7 | FRIDAY Story Time at the Interurban Railway Museum in Plano 10:30-11am. This fun-filled, interactive experience is aimed at toddlers and preschool children. Interurban Railway Museum, 901 E. 15th Street, Plano 972-241-2117 www.planoconservancy.org

8 | SATURDAY Walk MS

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

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

9-11am. Join us for a morning meal, egg hunt, crafts and games, plus live bunnies and the Easter Bunny. Registration required. Wheelchair accessible. The Westin Stonebriar, 1549 Legacy Drive, Frisco 972-964-1600 www.johgriefsupport.org

Eggcellent Family Adventure

9am-12pm. All ages. Kids can visit tables to receive eggs, candy and other goodies. Great games, crafts, face painters, bounce house and Easter Bunny. Allen Civic Plaza, 305 Century Parkway, Allen 214-509-4700 www. cityofallen.org

Easter Egg Hunt in Rowlett

10am-12pm. Over 20,000 treat-filled Easter eggs. Face painting, bounce houses, photos with the Easter Bunny and more! Pecan Grove Park, 5326-5706 Old State Hwy 66, Rowlett 972-412-6170 www. rowlett.com

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Colorpalooza

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

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Opening Weekend

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

Easter Eggstravaganza

1-4pm. Ages Up to 12 yrs. More than 80,000 eggs will be up for grabs. Enjoy bounce houses, face painting and photos with the Easter Bunny. Special needs friendly. Toyota Soccer Center, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco 972-2926520 www.friscofun.org

Evening with the Easter Bunny & Glow Egg Hunt

7-8:30pm. Ages 2-6 yrs. Bring your basket to this event which includes a craft, refreshment, storytelling, the Easter Bunny and a night egg hunt with glowing Easter Eggs! Breckenridge Park, 5300 Renner Road, Richardson www.cor.net

9 | SUNDAY Easter Open SkateÂ

1-3pm. All ages. There will be activities and an opportunity to have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Allen Community Ice Rink at Allen Event Center, 200 E. Stacy Road #1350, Allen 972-9121097 www.cityofallen.org

Easter Egg Scramble

2pm. Ages 2-10yrs. Come and see the Easter Bunny! Heritage Park, 4408 Hudson Dr., Sachse www.cityofsachse.com

Easter Pup-A-Palooza

2-4pm. All dogs are invited to hunt for eggs filled with doggie treats. Bring your basket, leash and proof of rabies vaccination. Herfuth

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timeout Park, 4601 Centennial, Rowlett 972-412-6170 www.rowlett.com

W. Plano Pkwy, Plano 972380-8001, standrewumc.org. See ad in this issue.

10 | MONDAY

Under the Sea Easter Adventure

Mother Daughter Book Club! 6:30pm. 8-12yrs. For Mothers and their daughters. John & Judy Gay Library, 6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney 972-547-7323 www. mckinneytexas.org

11 | TUESDAY Toddler Story Time

10am. Frisco Library, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco www.friscolibrary.com

Play & Learn

11am. 18-36 months. Playing is learning! Toddlers explore and connect in this unstructured and imaginative playtime. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano www.planolibrary.org

12 | WEDNESDAY

10am-6pm. Sat & Sun. Enjoy special Irish and Scottish performances, bagpipes and testing your fortitude in a number of themed competitions. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-9383247 www.srfestival.com

16 | SUNDAY Easter at St. Andrew UMC

9:30-11am. Ages 3-6 yrs. Crafts and story time with the Easter Bunny. 54143 Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 E. Bethany, Allen 214-509-4750 www.cityofallen.org

13 | THURSDAY

Third Sunday Open House

Maundy Thursday at St. Andrew UMC

7pm. Remembering the Last Supper with bread and cup. In the Sanctuary. 5801 W. Plano Pkwy, Plano 972-380-8001, standrewumc.org. See ad in this issue.

14 | FRIDAY Good Friday at St. Andrew UMC 7pm. Remembering the sacrifice on the cross with a service of darkness. In the Sanctuary. 5801 W. Plano Pkwy, Plano 972-380-8001, standrewumc.org. See ad in this issue.

15 | SATURDAY Easter at St. Andrew UMC

5:30pm. Traditional Service with Orchestra and Choir. 5801 APRIL 2017 Let our advertisers know you found them in Suburban Parent

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Celtic Weekend

6:45am Sunrise Service. 8:00, 9:30 & 11am Traditional Service in Sanctuary with Orchestra and Choir or Contemporary Service in Smith Worship Center. 5801 W. Plano Pkwy, Plano 972-380-8001, standrewumc.org. See ad in this issue.

Lunch with the Easter Bunny

10am-12pm. Ages 1-12 yrs. Have your photo taken with the Easter Bunny before or after the hunt. Treats are given to all participants. Pre-registration is required by April 13. Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 110 E. Rivercrest, Allen 214-509-4770 www. cityofallen.org

1-4pm. All ages. Kids crafts and games, face painting, entertainment, live animals, working blacksmiths, and docent-guided tours. Frisco Heritage Center, 6455 Page Street, Frisco 972-292-5657 www.friscoheritage.org

17 | MONDAY Photoshop CardsÂ

12pm. Ages 13 yrs & Up. Learn how to create your own cards using layers. Classes are held in the Parr Digital Creation Space. First come, first served. Parr Library, 6200 Windhaven Parkway, Plano 972-769-4300 www.planolibrary.org

18 | TUESDAY Toddler Story Time

10am. Frisco Library, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco www.friscolibrary.com

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timeout Play & Learn

Open House at Eldorado Montessori

19 | WEDNESDAY

Alliance Data Red Balloon® Run & Ride

7:00pm. Ages 13 & Up. Create your own hand-lettered type using illustrator. Parr LibraryDigital Creation Space 6200 Windhaven Parkway, Plano 972-769-4300 Parr Library

20 | THURSDAY

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Royal Ale Festival

Legacy of Love Benefit and Fashion Show

6- 9pm. Fashion show & refreshments. MercedesBenz of Plano, 6455 N Dallas Parkway, Plano 469-620-1055 www.thepowergroup.com

21 | FRIDAY Earth Day Texas 2017

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

Texas Coin Show

2-6pm. Coins, Stamps, Currency, Gold, Jewlery, Proof Sets & More! Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S. Main St., Grapevine 817-410-3459

Aladdin

7:30pm. When a street urchin vies for the love of a beautiful princess, he uses a genie’s magic power to make himself off as a prince in order to marry her. Palace Theater, 300 S. Main St., Grapevine 817-410-3100 www.grapevinetexasusa.com

Greater Tuna

8pm. Fri & Sat. Hilarious and irreverent comedy about Texas’ third smallest town, where the Lion’s club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson www. eisemanncenter.com

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10am-2pm. 11600 Teel Pkwy, Frisco 972-334-9444 www. eldoradomontessori.com. See ad in this issue.

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

Illustrator Lettering

22 | SATURDAY

11am. 18-36 months. Playing is learning! Toddlers explore and connect in this unstructured and imaginative playtime. Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano www.planolibrary.org

10am-6pm. Sat & Sun. Enjoy tastings of assorted beer along with a variety of entertainment including the Turkey Leg Eating Contest at 3pm. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-9383247 www.srfestival.com

23 | SUNDAY Bark in the Park – Frisco RoughRiders

4:05-7pm. Bring Fido for a baseball outing to see the Frisco RoughRiders play. Pre-game dog parade, gift for your pup and water stations for the thirsty canine. Frisco RoughRiders, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco www. ridersbaseball.com

24 | MONDAY Taste of Wylie 2017

11am-2pm. Featuring great food from local restaurants. Benefiting the Wylie Christian Care Center. First Baptist Church Events Center, 200 N. Ballard Ave., Wylie www. discoverwylie.com

25 | TUESDAY Open House at the Guthrie School

8:15-9am. Join us for coffee and to hear about our school and programs. Please RSVP. The Guthrie School, 598 Old Custer Rd, Allen 972-5966929 www.guthrieschool.com. See ad in this issue.

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timeout 26 | WEDNESDAY St. Mark Catholic School Open House

4:30-6:30pm. Our awardwinning program incorporates exemplary academics, faith formation, community service, physical education, foreign language, art, music, technology and S.T.E.M., all in a warm and welcoming family community. St. Mark Catholic School, 1201 Alma Drive, Plano 972-578-0610 www.stmcs.net

27 | THURSDAY Cry Baby Matinee at the Angelika

1:30pm. Every Thursday. Relax and enjoy a film without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. Angelika Theater, 7205 Bishop Road, Plano 972-943-1300 www.angelikafilmcenter.com/plano

28 | FRIDAY Yogees Yoga 4 Kids

10:30-11am. Ages 2-5 yrs. Bring a yoga mat and meet at NorthCourt. NorthPark Center, 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas 214-6711381 www.dallaslibrary.org

sink or swim at the second annual “Rowlett Cardboard Boat Regatta”. Community Park, 8500 St. Andrews, Rowlett 972-412-6170 www. rowlett.com

30 | SUNDAY Elephant & Piggie’s We Are In A Play

2:30pm. All ages. Based on the Elephant & Piggie books by Mo Willems. Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson 972-744-4650 www.eisemanncenter.com

Dog Bowl at the Cotton Bowl 1-5pm. The annual Dog Bowl at the Cotton Bowl is a day of free unleashed fun for dog lovers, pups and pooches of all sizes. The Cotton Bowl field transforms into a super-sized pooch park with splash pools, an agility course, contests, live entertainment, vendors, and local dog rescue groups. Cotton Bowl in Fair Park, 3750 Midway Plaza, Dallas 214-6708400 www.fairpark.org

save the date may-

jun

MAY 6-7

29 | SATURDAY North Dallas Toy Show

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

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

Rowlett Cardboard Boat Regatta

1:30-2:30pm. Community Park will be full of spectators waiting to see who will float,

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Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Live the Fantasy Weekend

10am-6pm. Adult & Children’s Costume Contest and Children’s Fairy Initiation Ceremony at 12 pm. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www.srfestival.com

MAY 13-14 Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Mother’s Day Brunch & Renaissance Romance Weekend

10am-6pm. Mother’s Day Brunch for the whole family with lively entertainment and buffet. Renew your vows at noon in the wedding garden and enjoy a reception following. Additional fees for each. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-9383247 www.srfestival.com

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

MAY 20-21

JUN 5

Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Legends of the Sea

Hang Time Camp starts at the RISE

10am-6pm. Children in mermaid and pirate costumes are invited to participate in pirate games and compete in a costume contest. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www.srfestival.com

MAY 27-29 Scarborough Renaissance Festival: Final Knights Weekend

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

10am-6pm. Three days of music, merriment and magic will bring the event to a close. Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie 972-938-3247 www.srfestival.com

7:30am-5pm. Come for one day, one week or all summer through Aug 14 for a full day of sports, games, crafts and more. $30/day or $120/ wk. Rockwall Indoor Sports Expo, 2922 S. Goliad/SH 205 Rockwall 972-772-9061 www. riserockwall.com. See ad in this issue.

JUN 12-16 2017 Summer Chess Camp at UT Dallas

Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-14. Morning (9amnoon) and afternoon (1-4pm) plus extended playing classes available. Other camps Jun 19-23, Jul 10-14 & Jul 17-21.

Call 214-461-1811

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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ADVENTURE KIDS PLAYCARE ...................................... 25 972-668-5990 Frisco 972-612-5400 Plano adventurekidsplaycare.com

J CAMPS............................................23 jccdallas.org/camps

BREITLING YOUTH THEATER.......................................... 24 972-658-3915 actingforchildren.org

MORAN CAMP XTREME..........13 713-877-0488 tirrfoundation.org

CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TREEHOUSE BUCKINGHAM.............................. 22 972-530-8436 treehouse4kids.net CLUB SCIKIDZ............................... 20 214-530-5979 clubscikidzdallas.com CUB CREEK SCIENCE CAMP... 25 mosciencecamp.com DESTINATION SCIENCE......... 22 888-909-2822 destinationscience.com

KANAKUK CAMP......................... 19 gokanakuk.com

SPCA................................................... 26 214-461-1811 spca.org/crittercamp THE GUTHRIE SCHOOL..... 2, 19 972-596-6929 guthrieschool.com UTD CHESS CAMP.....................27 972-883-4899 utdallas.edu/chess

See complete Directory online @ suburbanparent.com

www.mistystagnonephotography.com www.facebook.com/mistystagnonephotography

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funstuff

nature hunt

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

GOTTA

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

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

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

q A few pine needles

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

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

words of wisdom

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

You kidding me?

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

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

wholesomeending

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

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

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

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

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

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

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mess free

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