Suburban Parent CFL, March 2020 by Suburban Parent

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Be Healthy

REFRESH YOUR CHILD'S DIET

THE RIGHT KIND OF SCREEN TIME APPS TO TRY

Try these low-sugar ideas for meal and snack times

ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH IRON?

WHY THE ARTS ARE IMPORTANT IN YOUNG LIVES

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MARY SHARES

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Mary Ellen Caldwell, RDN editor@suburbanparent.com

HELLO MARCH!

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR Francie Morin

feel like I say this often, but March does feel like a favorite month that brings so much for us to

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

look forward to. Like anticipating the signs of spring! This is the time of year when all of nature

Mary Ann Blair Christa Melnyk Hines

seems to come back to life. It is nature’s time to shout, “All things will be new again!” We see

CALENDAR EDITOR

new growth on trees, beautiful flowers in all the colors of a rainbow blooming, birds chirping,

Paula Leonard

ladybugs, and bird nests, to name a few. And, of course, I encourage you to “Love the Season you’re

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in!” And this, my friends, is our season of renewal, which is when we make commitments to spiritual

Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com

practices like Fasting, Prayer, and Charity (almsgiving). The intent is to help us grow in our faith,

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towards a personal conversion, that brings us closer to our God. It’s the small sacrifices that help

Alex Canales Linsey Sohee Lee

us to remember the big sacrifice that was made for us a very long time ago. This year may bring my family a bit of a twist from our traditional commitments, since we already ate all the Thin Mints from the Girls Scouts! I would like for us to fast from other things, like those moments lost in cyberspace that take away from our family being really together. Bring out the board games, take a walk in the

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park, visit old folk’s homes and play card games with the residents, or just listen to their life stories.

Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

Trust me; you will be glad you did.

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PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 1333 Corporate Drive Suite 116 Irving, Texas 75038 Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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YOU SHOULD KNOW Be creative

MORE THAN FRIDGE ART Experts agree arts and crafts are more than just pretty projects to entertain young children and then display on the fridge. They actually help children develop critical skills for success in school and beyond. Manipulating art tools like crayons and paintbrushes helps develop fine motor skills needed for dressing, feeding and handwriting. Creating art also helps kids learn to plan and problem solve as they figure out spatial relations and cause-and-effect relationships. And most importantly, it encourages creativity and develops imagination.

STUDENT SENIORITIS . . .

Cultivate an Interest in the Arts

not a recognized medical condition, but it is a real problem. The lack of motivation many seniors experience in their last semester, although understandable, can have serious consequences. While seniors may have stopped caring about grades, colleges haven’t. They will look at final transcripts and they can revoke admission if grades drop too low. For students to stay engaged in school till the end, they need to acknowledge the problem and push through. It also helps to make time for relaxation and self-reflection (you done good, kid!). Expressing gratitude for those who’ve helped them get this far is a nice pick-me-up too.

Students who participate in art activities develop creativity, self-discipline and confidence to succeed. Studies show they perform better academically as well. Additional research found that exposing children to the arts at an early age helps them develop a greater appreciation for the arts throughout their lives. So keep art supplies on hand, listen to music, play dress up, and take the family to see a show or visit a museum. There are tons of kid friendly programs out there. It’ll be fun and beneficial.

LATE NIGHT SNACKING

FAMILY TIME One of the most important things families can do for children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development is have fun together. A great way to do that is through regular Family Nights. Spending time together as a family helps keep communication lines open and form lasting bonds. For the best benefit, Family Night doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to be a regular occurrence. Starting when the kids are young will make it a natural tradition when they’re older.

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Got a late night snacker in the house? That’s okay as long as snacks are nutritious and figured into the child’s daily caloric intake. If dinner is served early, it’s not uncommon for kids, especially teens to get hungry again before bed. Just steer them away from unhealthy foods, like chips and ice cream which can lead to adult overeating habits, and steer them towards more nutritious options like fruits and veggies. A healthy snack before bed can actually help kids get some of the vitamins and minerals they may have missed during the day. Snack time can even become part of their calming bedtime routine.

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Let’s get creative!

BEGINNER PAPER QUILLING CARD KIT Try your hand at a traditional art form. This quilling kit for beginners teaches you how to create intricate designs by carefully rolling and shaping strips of paper. Tools like paper, tweezers, and even access to online tutorials are included to help you get started. The kit contains eight templated notecards in four different designs. www.thegrommet.com, $25.00.

GAME ON HARRY POTTER SPELLCASTERS GAME

TAG YOUR KID

Welcome, wizards and witches! Think you know your accio from your incendio? Or do you “swish” when you should “flick”? Put your observational skills to the test! Cast & recognize spells to earn the Barnabus Finkley Prize for Exceptional Spell-Casting! By Pressman, $11.99.

Personalized Label Stamp Prepare your kids for school or camp with this custom stamping kit. Using wash-resistant textile ink, Minestamp helps you clearly label notebooks, book bags, articles of clothing and more with one click. Customize up to three lines of text, with a full set of letters and numbers included. www.thegrommet.com, $17.00.

VIBE SPOTIFY® & AMAZON MUSIC BY MIGHTY AUDIO The Mighty Vibe is your personal (and portable) Spotify® and Amazon Music jukebox. The tiny device doesn’t need a phone handy or even an internet connection to work. It syncs with your music subscriptions to play back playlists and podcasts while freeing you from carrying a phone. www.thegrommet.com, $84.95.

ALPHABET BINGO Game for Kids Package Includes: 24 unique alphabet game cards, 441 smiley face chips, 27 caller chips, and game instructions. Great for alphabet learning, these bingo cards are designed with alphabet and animal patterns which includes cat, monkey and more. They are great for children to identify alphabet and animals. www.amazon.com. $8.99.

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Kids can play, explore, and learn while in our safe and secure environment. Parents can enjoy shopping, dining, running errands, house hunting, or just relaxing with peace of mind!

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QUESTIONS

We are ready to list our house for sale. What do I need to do to prep my home?

Homes that appear well-maintained appeal to potential buyers. Below are three simple steps you can take to ensure your home is ready for sale. 1. Declutter: Less is more. Pack away items such as toys or stacked papers. Store excessive furniture to show more space. Consider removing personal pictures and decorations. The more your home looks like your home it becomes difficult for a buyer to imagine themselves there. 2. Clean: Make sure all rooms are spick and span. Kitchen and bathrooms should sparkle. Have the carpet cleaned or replaced. 3. Paint: Touch up any rooms that need a fresh coat of paint or a new color. Stick with neutral colors that are more universal. Your home’s cleanliness creates an impression to a potential buyer. Make sure your impression is great! Kimberly White, Realtor \ Keller Williams

Do you have suggestions on how to make mealtimes more interesting and healthy for my family?

It’s National Nutrition Month! Oh, the variety of nutritious foods that we can bring to the table. As a mother, I know getting food on the table is easy; getting our kids to eat it can be challenging. I have noticed that teaching our kids (9 years and up) how to cook can bring excitement to the table. Make sure to include healthy foods from all the wonderful food groups. Kids in school? Make a plan each week with your kids to come up with new food ideas for lunch. Switch up the same old sandwich with pita bread or tortillas. Have fun with veggies and fruit like baby carrots, dried cranberries, or celery sticks. And sending silly notes to your child is always fun! Mary E. Caldwell, RDN \ Editor/SP Media

are the arts important in the Q Why lives of young people? Children have a natural curiosity and are tenacious. When young people are engaged in the arts in a safe, creative environment that fosters a sense of child-wonder, they begin taking risks and become more self-confident and self-aware. Theatre enrichment games and improvisation games ignite imaginations. Minds are transformed as they study and develop characters for monologues and songs and they gain physical and vocal confidence. Young people develop a sense of how they fit into the real world through becoming part of an ensemble of actors and performers. They see that their unique self can enhance others and they understand the value of differences. Pam Adair \ Education Director \ Kids Who Care

How can I help my child prepare for her first time at sleep away camp?

To prepare for a successful first experience, build the confidence that she can do it! Encourage her to know that she is capable of being in a new environment and things will be okay! And things will be more than okay: She will make friends, try something new, and grow as an individual! But the real answer, is that YOU should prepare YOURSELF for their first sleep away camp. It’s hard to let them go- we get that! An unsuccessful experience may come from the hesitations and worries you feel. This leads to her already planning for failure. So, get comfortable with us! Give your camp a call and or plan a visit. This will help you be a strong support for your future camper! Ari Farley \ Assistant Camp Director and Creative Cub Creek Science Camp

Our Experts Pam Adair kidswhocare.org

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Kimberly White kimberlywhite.kwrealty.com

Mary E. Caldwell suburbanparent.com

Ari Farley CubCreekScienceCamp.com

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Refresh

Your Child’s Diet with

Low-Sugar Options Many families look to the new-year as a time to reset their eating habits and focus on making healthier choices. However, adults aren’t the only ones who could use a menu refresh as children may also need to focus on healthier food choices. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed children consume an unhealthy amount of added sugar every day. Researchers found nearly all of the toddlers in their study ate an average of 7 teaspoons of added sugar daily – the equivalent of a candy bar. Additionally, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, excess sugar consumption can lead to an increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

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“Small children have small stomachs,” said Courtney Hines, a nutritionist for KinderCare Learning Centers, which care for more than 165,000 children around the country every day. “You want them to fill up on nutrient-dense foods, not empty calories in the form of added sugar. When children consume lots of sugar, their palates get used to overly sweet flavors. They may not accept other, less sugary flavors or learn to appreciate the natural sweetness of a piece of fresh fruit.” The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against the consumption of added sugar for children under the age of 2. Children ages 2-18 should aim for less than 25 grams, or 6 teaspoons, of added sugar per day.

For families that want to cut down on the amount of added sugar in their diets, it’s recommended that cooking more at home, relying less on processed, packaged foods and serving only water or milk for beverages. Consider these low-sugar ideas for meal and snack times to help control the amount of added sugar you and your family consume.

Dip Smart Herbs, spices, citrus and fresh fruit add flavor without relying on the added sugars found in many popular sauces and dips. Consider making your own low-sugar alternatives at home so your family can still enjoy favorite flavors like these: • Ranch Dressing – In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper for a kid-tested, nutritionist-approved take on a favorite dip. Serve over salad or as vegetable dip. • Honey Mustard – Popular on a variety of sandwiches and as a dip or salad dressing, combining plain yogurt with milk, honey and regular or Dijon mustard can create a more family-friendly version. • Teriyaki Sauce – Perfect for serving with healthier options like lo mein, chicken wraps or fried rice, a homemade version can be created using water, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder and cornstarch slurry.

Swap Out Syrup Pancakes are a popular breakfast option in many homes, but even the healthiest whole-grain pancake becomes a plateful of sugar if it’s doused in syrup. Toppings that are sweet and savory without the added sugar are recommended. Try these! • Nut butter or seed butter (such as peanut, almond or sun) and banana slices • Warm fruit compote (mix of warmed berries) • Applesauce (no-sugar-added variety) and cinnamon • Nut butter swirled into plain yogurt; mix in 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract to add a sweet flavor

Snack Sweet Opting for less added sugar doesn’t mean avoiding sweet snacks altogether. These alternatives can still help satisfy those cravings: • Applesauce with baked cinnamon pita triangles for dipping • Toast topped with nut or seed butter, smashed banana and sprinkle of cinnamon • Frozen fruit smoothies • Plain yogurt topped with granola, nuts, seeds or fruit • Apple slices with nut or seed butter Introduce your children to these healthy habits! — kindercare.com

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THE RIGHT KIND OF

SCREEN TIME BY TANNI HAAS, PH.D.

ot a day goes by without parents getting bombarded by new and scary reports about all the horrible things kids are doing to themselves by spending too much time on their screens. Parents are regularly told that too much screen time can make kids apathetic, depressed, lazy, or unimaginative. But perhaps the situation is not so dire after all. Research shows that it’s not how many hours kids spend on their screens that matters, but rather what they do when they’re on their devices. “How children use the devices, not how much time they spend on them,” say the authors of a recent study, “is the strongest predictor of emotional or social problems connected with screen addiction.” How do parents know whether their kids are harming or helping themselves online? Researchers note that sitting for hours at time scrolling mindlessly through their social media feeds is really bad for kids, a fact that parents well know. However, playing electronic games that either stimulate them physically or mentally can in fact be really good for kids. Here are three of the most popular games that can stimulate your kids physically or cognitively. They’re fun and can be enjoyed by kids of all ages, and the best part is that they’re completely free.

NFL Play 60

If your kids love sports, especially football but it’s hard to get them to do any actual exercise, NFL Play 60 is the right game for them. Created by the NFL in collaboration with the American

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Heart Association the game lets kids pretend that they’re professional football players. Instead of simply making their on-screen avatars run and jump, they have to get off the couch and actually run, jump, catch and turn to make their avatars move.

Sworkit Kids

Sworkit Kids is a great exercise and fitness game. Unlike NFL Play 60, it doesn’t focus on one particular sport and set of movements. The goal is to improve strength, agility, flexibility, and balance by viewing and doing more than 200 exercises that have video tutorials by other kids. The game also lets kids create their own, individualized exercises.

Story Dice Story Telling

A game that challenges your kids cognitively and gets their creative juices flowing is Story Dice – Story Telling. This game features 40 virtual dice, each with six different images in different categories, for a total of 240 very different images. Kids shake their devices to roll the dice and create stories that connect all the images that emerge. Encourage your kids to use this game together with their friends to see who comes up with the most suspenseful or fun stories and, for added learning, encourage them to write down their stories. You can finds these Apps at the Apple Appstore and Google Play.

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

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Calendar \ March 2020

THE PREGO EXPO

March 14

Exhibitors, Product Demos, Educational Seminars, Giveaways, and a Babies and Bumps Fashion Show. www.thepregoexpo.com

PAW PATROL LIVE

March 20- 22

See the heroic pups from the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol in action-packed, music-filled production. www.pawpatrollive.com

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SUNDAY 1 Lightwire Theater’s The Ugly Duckling 2-3:30pm Lightwire Theater brings a classic tale to the stage in an unforgettable theatrical experience. Lined with electroluminescent wire, the beloved story of The Ugly Duckling plays out on stage through a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance. With dazzling visuals, poignant choreography and the creative use of music ranging from classical to pop, this production brings this story into a new and brilliant light. Tickets from $19. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas www.attpac.org The Pirates of Penzance 2-3:30pm UT Arlington’s Department of Music in association with The Department of Theatre Arts present The Pirates of Penzance, a comic operetta for kids.. It’s a hilarious farce with sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers and an eccentric Major-General. $12 for assigned seating; $10 for seniors, UTA students, faculty, and staff. Through Mar. 1. UTA MainStage Theatre, 700 Greek Row Drive, Arlington www.theatre.uta.edu Scale Tales 11am-7pm Get an up-close and personal look at reptiles and exotic animals during SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium’s new interactive show Scale Tales, which gives guests the opportunity to get an up close and

personal look at the aquarium’s reptiles and exotic animals that include a bearded dragon, blue tongue skink, ball python and more. Scale Tales is included in the price of admission. Online pricing from $17.99 for adults, from $14.99 for children 3–12 years and free for 2 and younger. Through March 31. SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine www.visitsealife.com

MONDAY 2 Seussical 7:30-9pm Come see all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat and more. Tickets from $15. Best for ages 7 and older. Through Mar. 21. Artisan Center Theater, 444 East Pipeline Road, Hurst www.artisanct.com

TUESDAY 3 Music and Stories with Kidworks 11am-12pm Bring the kiddos to a storytelling session in the park! Bring your little ones and join us for an hour full of music, movement and fun stories every Tuesday. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas www.klydewarrenpark.org Alice in Wonderland Jr. 12-1pm Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures. See website for more information. Tickets to the performance and

tea party sold separately. Tickets from $8. Through March 14. Artisan Children’s Theater, 444 East Pipeline Road, Hurst www.artisanct.com

WEDNESDAY 4 Toddler Story Time 10:15-11am This program helps infants get ready for school by developing a love for learning, social and emotional skills, and more. Ages 12 to 36 months with a caregiver. Manske Library, 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch www.farmersbranchtx.gov/129/Library Nature’s Art – the Mineral Beauty of China 10am-5pm Marvel at breathtaking specimens including a metallic masterpiece of stibnite, feet-shaped azurite and malachite, a mountainous fluorite covered in snow-like calcite and much more. This special exhibit is included with General Admission. Through Sept. 7. Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St., Dallas www.perotmuseum.org

THURSDAY 5 JumpstART Stories and Art 10-11am Join us the first Thursday of each month at Irving Arts Center for stories and art! Explore new stories and fun art projects during this creative story time that combines art and children’s literature. This Month’s Theme: Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss! Green eggs and ham, anyone? Join us to celebrate the legendary author

and illustrator of such classics as Horton Hears a Who, Cat in the Hat , The Grinch Who Stole Christmas and The Lorax. Ages 2 and up. All supplies provided. 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving www. irvingartscenter.com Dallas Blooms—Sounds of Spring 9am-5pm With more than 100 varieties of spring bulbs and over 500,000 blooms bursting with color, the Dallas Arboretum announces “Sounds of Spring” as this year’s Dallas Blooms theme. Go online to check out the full schedule of activities and family fun all season. Free with general admission. Through April 12. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org

FRIDAY 6 North Texas Irish Festival 6-11pm In its 38th year, the North Texas Irish Festival is full of amazing music, dance, and cultural talent to celebrate the rich tradition of Irish and Celtic culture. Admission is free on Friday from 6–7pm; $10 after. See website for more information. Through March 8. Fair Park, 1121 First Avenue, Dallas www.ntif.org First Friday on the Farm 10am-12pm Each month, this program presents a different theme that highlights the heritage skills that you could use to enrich your life today. Registration is required and space is limited. This month’s theme: Kites! Build a 19th century paper kite. Open to adults and to kids age 3 and older. $3 per person. Nash Farm, 626 Ball St, Grapevine www. grapevinetexasusa.com Open Gym at Best Gymnastics in Flower Mound 1:30-2:30pm Participants can jump on the trampolines, play in the foam pit, tumble on the rod floor, play games on the Big Blue Floor, or swing on the bars. Open Gym is a drop-off event. There’s open seating for parents who want to stay, a cafe area with live television, and free Wi-Fi. The cost is $5

per child. For kids ages 6 and younger. 601 Cross Timbers Rd Ste. 100, Flower Mound www. bestgymnastics.net

SATURDAY 7 TEXFest 3-9pm Bring your boots and your buckles for a Texas-sized good time in Carrollton. This free event honoring Texas Independence Day offers a beer garden with local craft beer vendors, live Texas music, a food village, photo ops with a live longhorn, the chance to test your cowboy skills on a mechanical bull, free old-western photos and more. Headlining band takes the stage at 8pm. See website for complete schedule of events. Lawn chairs welcome. Downtown Carrollton, 1106 S. Broadway St., Carrollton www.cityofcarrollton.com North Texas Irish Festival Fun Run 8-11am This family-friendly 5K fun run is perfect for runners or walkers of any age or ability, and also dogs! All registered runners will receive a T-shirt, a medal, one ticket to the North Texas Irish Festival, and two beers after the run (if they are of legal drinking age). Tower Bldg, 3809 Grand Ave., Dallas www.fairpark.org My DSO Concert 10am-12pm The Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) hosts its fifth annual My DSO Concert that is accessible for all, with special care taken to create a safe, comfortable and fun environment for those with specific needs, including children and adults on the autism spectrum, as well as their families, friends and caregivers. Beginning at 10am, guests will be able to interact with musical instruments, participate in a music therapy experience and more. After the performance, guests will be invited to stay for a meet and greet with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are sold on a “pay what you can” basis with a suggested price of $10. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St., Dallas www.mydso.com

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TIME OUT

SUNDAY 8

TUESDAY 10

Dallas Festival of Colors 11am-5pm Join the ninth annual Holi Mela, the largest color festival in Dallas. An annual celebration of life, marking the start of spring and welcoming life with the blooming flowers, new leaves and happiness. The festival includes live performances, DJs, Indian percussion specials (DHOL), Indian street food, dancers, and more. Color throws every half hour starting at 11am. Wear white and get ready to party like never before. Festival presale tickets are $10; $15 on the day of; and free for children under 5. Join the 3K Color Run/ Race Against Discrimination for an additional $15. All Color Run proceeds go to nonprofit Human Embrace. Southfork Ranch, 3700 Hogge Road, Parker www. dallasfestivalofcolors.com

InterSkate Bargain Night 5-9pm $2 admission; $2 quad/$5 inline rental. 1408 Texas 121 Business, Lewisville www.interskate.net

Second Sunday Funday 1-4pm Join us the second Sunday of each month at Irving Arts Center for a fun and hands-on, art-filled afternoon! It’s a great way for adults and children to experience art together. March theme: Playing with Patterns. Join us for quilt-inspired art-making activities led by members of the Irving Quilt Guild. Free. Irving Arts Center, 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving www. irvingartscenter.com

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games 10am-12am Come experience Andretti Indoor Karting and Games, bringing high-speed electric super karts, bowling, VR gaming, arcade games, a ropes course, unique dining, legendary event space and much more. Andretti Indoor Karting and Games offers nearly 100,000 square feet of nonstop action and excitement. It’s a pay-asyou-go facility with no general admission fee. Fun for kids and adults of all ages. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, 5752 Grandscape Blvd., Suite 100,The Colony www.andrettikarting. com/thecolony

WEDNESDAY 11 Preschool Picassos 10:30-11:30am Make a memory with your toddler. One adult must be registered for each child. $15/$17 per parent. Register at the MAC or online. 1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield www.mansfieldtexas.gov/865/ Oliver-Nature-Park-ONP

Speechless: Different by Design 11am-5pm Explore the ways in which we connect to the world around us through our senses in this exhibition of multisensory, interactive, and immersive experiences. $16. Through Mar. 22. 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas www.dma.org/speechless

MONDAY 9

THURSDAY 12

Maker Lab Spring Break Edition 10am-12pm Bring your child for some makerspace fun to help spark the imagination. For ages 5+. Carrollton Public Library at Hebron and Josey, 4220 N. Josey Lane, Carrollton www. cityofcarrollton.com

Don’t Let The Pidgeon Drive the Bus 9:30-11am Inspired by the popular Pigeon books by Mo Willems and starring an innovative mix of actors, puppets, songs, and feathers, Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! (The

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Musical) is great fun, and sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. On stage in Carpenter Hall. Shows at 9:30am and 11:30am. Recommended for grades pre-K through 3rd. Tickets from $5. 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving www.irvingartscenter.com Seussical 7:30-9pm Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! Come see all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie and more. Tickets from $15. Best for ages 7 and older. Through Mar. 21. Artisan Center Theater, 444 East Pipeline Road, Hurst www.artisanct.com GirlScouts Birthday Bash In The Park 9am-12pm Join us for a celebration, crafts, swaps, and more. See website for other important details. For kids in kindergarten-12th grade. $15 per person (adults and children under 4 are free) 2540 Farmers Branch Ln, Farmers Branch www.gsnetx. org/en/events-repository/2019/ girl_scout_birthday.html

FRIDAY 13 Spring Break Steam Fair 3:30-5:30pm The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) Fair will provide hands-on experiments from a variety of businesses. For ages 5-12. Carrollton Public Library at Josey Ranch Lake, 1700 Keller Springs, Carrollton www. cityofcarrollton.com The Tap Pack 7:30-9pm Come see The Tap Pack, an elegant and entertaining nod to the Rat Pack era featuring high energy performances of mind-blowing tap dancing, smooth vocals, a swinging live jazz band and witty on-stage banter. The five-member male Australian cast wins the audience from the first downbeat and the pace of their amazing performances never slows. Tickets from $21.50. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving www.irvingartscenter.com

SATURDAY 14 The Prego Expo 11:30am-4pm. Exhibitors, Product Demos, Educational Seminars, Giveaways, and a Babies & Bumps Fashion Show. Admission $16 before the show, $18 at the door. Embassy Suites Dallas, Frisco Hotel Convention Center & Spa, 7600 John Q Hammons Dr, Dallas. thepregoexpo.com. See ad in this issue. Dash Down Greenville 8-9am If you’re an adult, dress in your luckiest gear and join the sea of green for the best 5K and post-race party this side of the rainbow. ‘Twill be a fine morning to celebrate with beer, food, a live band, cash prizes and more fun than ever before. Tickets start at $35. Central Market, 5750 E Lovers Ln, Dallas www. runproject.org/events/dashdown-greenville-race Dallas St. Patrick’s Parade 11am-12pm Find a spot along the two-mile parade route -- traveling south on Greenville Ave. from Blackwell to Yale Blvd. -- and cheer marching bands, dancers and bagpipers. Catch beads thrown from passing floats and party with thousands of green-clad revelers. www. dallasstpatricksparade.com St. Paddy’s Pickle Parade & Palooza 11am-9pm Don’t miss the 11am Baby Parade for ages 6–48 months. Application fee is $10 per child. The St. Paddy’s Pickle Parade begins at 1pm. Admission and most of the activities in the Pickle Playground are free. See website for more information. Downtown Mansfield, 102 N Main St, Mansfield www.pickleparade.org Kids Fest 12-6pm Spend Spring Break at Traders Village with the return of our popular Kids Fest event on March 14th -15th, 2020! A host of fun activities are planned for kids to enjoy; clowns, magicians, face painters, activities, photo ops with superheroes and a high energy show of music, songs,

and experiments. It’s fun for the entire family! Free. $5 Parking. Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www.tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie Pi Day Math Festival 10am-2pm In partnership with talkSTEM, AT&T Performing Arts Center invites you to join the fourth annual Pi Day Math Festival featuring walkSTEM. The festival will showcase the many ways in which math impacts the world: in art, nature, science and more. There will be interactive math-related activities for all ages. Please visit the website to RSVP. Free. Sammons Park at AT&T Performing Arts Center, 2403 Flora St., Dallas www.attpac.org

SUNDAY 15 For A Dreamer Of Houses 11am-5pm Inspired by philosopher Gaston Bachelard’s concept of the psychological, emotional significance of rooms and houses, For a Dreamer of Houses presents contemporary artworks that evoke personal spaces and considers the politics of places we identify with. The exhibit requires a $9 ticket with discounts for seniors, students, and military. DMA Members and children 11 and under are free. Through January 31, 2021. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas www.dma.org

MONDAY 16 Dallas Blooms—Sounds of Spring 9am-5pm The Dallas Arboretum announces “Sounds of Spring” as this year’s Dallas Blooms theme. See website for more details. Free with general admission. Through April 12. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org

TUESDAY 17 Nasher Prize Spring Break Week 11am-5pm Bring the whole family to enjoy a week of free programming at the Nasher and investigate big ideas from

each year’s Nasher Prize Laureate through interactive experiences. Spring Break at the Nasher coincides with spring break week for Dallas ISD. Visitors of all ages are invited to see masterworks of modern sculpture, take part in artist- and educator-led projects and relax in the Nasher Garden. Free. Through Mar. 22. Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora St, Dallas www. nashersculpturecenter.org Music and Stories with Kidworks 11am-12pm Bring the kiddos to a storytelling session in the park! Bring your little ones and join us for an hour full of music, movement and fun stories every Tuesday. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas www.klydewarrenpark.org

WEDNESDAY 18 DFW Auto Show 4-9pm The DFW Auto Show is a car enthusiast’s dream with more than half a million square feet of new cars, trucks and SUVs under one roof. Advance tickets are $11. Seniors’ and children’s tickets are available only at the door. Through Mar. 22. Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, 650 S Griffin St, Dallas www.dfwautoshow.com

Turning Preschoolers Into Independent, Creative inkers

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

THURSDAY 19 Preschool Story Time 10:15-11am Join us for stories, music, crafts, sign language and more. Ages 3-7 with caregiver. Free. Manske Library,

Call Now To Schedule a Tour!

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TIME OUT Birthdays

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch www.farmersbranchtx. gov/129/Library Nasher Prize Spring Break Week 11am-5pm Enjoy a week of free programming at the Nasher and investigate big ideas from each year’s Nasher Prize Laureate through interactive experiences. Spring Break at the Nasher coincides with spring break week for Dallas ISD. Visitors of all ages are invited to see masterworks of modern sculpture, take part in artist- and educator-led projects and relax in the Nasher Garden. Free. Through Mar. 22. Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora St, Dallas www.nashersculpturecenter.org

FRIDAY 20 LeAndra \ 2 February 15

Cameron \ 3 March 13

Ayla \ 2 March 16

Zayne \ 4 March 24

SUBMIT

Upload your Birthday Kids picture @ suburbanparent.com Submit by 10th of the month prior to their birthday.

Super Summer Sign-Up Weekend Sign up for Summer Camp at the YMCA through 3/23 and save $50 registration fee per child. Details at www.ymcadallas.org/ summer. See ad in this issue. PAW Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue 6-7:30pm See the heroic pups from the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol in action-packed, music-filled production. To help accommodate young children, the Broadway-style performance includes two acts with a 15-minute intermission. Tickets from $23. Through Mar. 22. The Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie www.pawpatrollive.com Inherit the Wind 7:30-9:30pm One of the most outstanding dramas of our time, Inherit the Wind is a fictional dramatization of the notorious 1925 Scopes “Monkey” trial when a Tennessee teacher was jailed for teaching Darwin’s Theory of evolution to his pupils. Tickets from $21. Through April 4. Irving Arts Center, 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving www. irvingartscenter.com Open Gym at Best Gymnastics in Flower Mound 1:30-2:30pm Participants can jump on the trampolines, play in the foam pit, tumble on the rod

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floor, play games on the Big Blue Floor, or swing on the bars. Open Gym is a drop-off event. There’s open seating for parents who want to stay, a cafe area with live television, and free Wi-Fi. The cost is $5 per child. For kids ages 6 and younger. 601 Cross Timbers Rd Ste. 100, Flower Mound www. bestgymnastics.net

SATURDAY 21 Nasher Prize Spring Break Week 11am-5pm Bring the whole family to enjoy a week of free programming at the Nasher and investigate big ideas from each year’s Nasher Prize Laureate through interactive experiences. Spring Break at the Nasher coincides with spring break week for Dallas ISD. Free. Through Mar. 22. Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora St, Dallas www.nashersculpturecenter.org Last Stop on Market Street 1:30-3pm On a Sunday after church in a bustling, ethnically and culturally diverse American city, CJ and his Nana board the public bus for their weekly trip across town to help out at a soup kitchen. Along the way CJ discovers that everyone and everything has a unique rhythm and purpose. This inspiring and imaginative play is based on The New York Times bestseller. Recommended for ages 4 and older. Tickets from $15. Through April 5. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St., Dallas www.dct.org/plays Jurassic Gardens 9am-6pm Come see the prehistoric Woodbine Formation, found right here in North Texas, and come face-to-face with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Dinos After Dark: Explore the dinosaurs in a whole new light as a family special experiences Friday and Saturday nights during the exhibit. Through April 5. $10 per person; free for children 2 and younger. Grapevine Botanical Gardens at Heritage Park, 411 Ball Street, Grapevine www.gograpevine.com Jared’s Epic Nerf Battle 5! 6-10pm Now back for its 5th consecutive year, who wants to attend the current reigning world record

holders for the “Largest Toy Pistol Fight?” There will be amazing surprises, special guests and global exclusive product reveals! Meet your favorite NERF YouTube celebrities in person. Battle with your friends and family on the actual NFL field of the Dallas Cowboys. Fun for all ages. Tickets start at $16. Free parking. 1 AT&T Way, Arlington www.facebook. com/JaredsEpicNerf

SUNDAY 22 Origins – Fossils from the Cradle of Humankind 10am-5pm Final day for the exhibition exploring the discovery of rare fossils. This exhibition requires a surcharge for members and non-members. Members: $7. Non-members: $21–30. Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St, Dallas www.origins.perotmuseum.org For A Dreamer Of Houses 11am-5pm Inspired by philosopher Gaston Bachelard’s concept of the psychological, emotional significance of rooms and houses, For a Dreamer of Houses presents contemporary artworks that evoke personal spaces and considers the politics of places we identify with. The exhibit requires a $9 ticket with discounts for seniors, students, and military. DMA Members and children 11 and under are free. Through January 31, 2021. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas www.dma.org

MONDAY 23 Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets 7:30-10:30pm Come to the AAC to cheer on the Mavericks as they take on the Houston Rockets. Tickets start at $36. AAC, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas www.mavs.com

TUESDAY 24 Baby Bounce 10:15-11am Come for stories, nursery rhymes, music, and movement. For ages 0-18 months with a caregiver. Manske Library, 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch www.farmersbranchtx. gov/129/Library

Nature’s Art – the Mineral Beauty of China 10am-5pm Collecting rocks and stone carvings has been popular in China for thousands of years. The country’s abundant mineral resources were historically used for industrial purposes only until the mid1980’s. Marvel at breathtaking specimens including a metallic masterpiece of stibnite, feetshaped azurite and malachite, a mountainous fluorite covered in snow-like calcite and much more. This special exhibit is included with General Admission. Through Sept. 7. Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St., Dallas www.perotmuseum.org

WEDNESDAY 25 Little Steppers: Herpetology Helpers 11am-12pm Students with special needs will learn about nature. Pre-registration required. $7/$9 per student. For ages 5-17 years. Oliver Nature Park, 1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield www.olivernaturepark.com

THURSDAY 26 Lego Mania 4-5pm Come to the library for some Lego-building creativity. Ages 5 and up. Manske Library, 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch www.farmersbranchtx.gov/129/Library

FRIDAY 27 Junie B. Jones Jr. 5-6pm Junie B. Jones Jr. captures the hearts of audiences of all ages, just as the books captivated an entire generation of students. Tickets from $8. Through April 25. 444 East Pipeline Road, Hurst www.artisanct.com Open Gym at Best Gymnastics in Flower Mound 1:30-2:30pm Participants can jump on the trampolines, play in the foam pit, tumble on the rod floor, play games on the Big Blue Floor, or swing on the bars. Open Gym is a drop-off

event. There’s open seating for parents who want to stay, a cafe area with live television, and free Wi-Fi. The cost is $5 per child. For kids ages 6 and younger. 601 Cross Timbers Rd Ste. 100, Flower Mound www. bestgymnastics.net

SATURDAY 28 Lego Trolls World Tour 10am-8pm Legoland Discovery Center hosts the ultimate celebration of the new movie Trolls World Tour. Tickets from $19.95. Through April 26. Legoland Discovery Center, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy., Grapevine www.dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com Festival of Joy 11am-6pm Experience India’s vast cultural and spiritual heritage at Klyde Warren Park. Enjoy live music and dance performances, along with traditional eats, games, and activities for the entire family. Free. 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas www.fojdallas.com Nash Farm Heritage Workshop 8:30am-1pm Visit Nash Farm and experience what it’s like to step into a 19th century home while learning the essential farm skills. This open-house setting allows guests to discuss the activities with the interpreters and involvement may be encouraged when possible. This month’s workshop: Preparing a 19th Century Farm Meal. Prepare a late 19th century meal on a wood cook stove in the 1869 farmhouse with historic culinary educators. Following your visit to the farmhouse, visit the farm grounds to complete your experience. Registration is required, but walk-in registration is also encouraged. Participants of all ages may attend. Space is limited at all events. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online. Nash Farm, 626 Ball St, Grapevine www.grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm/ events/heritage-workshops

SUNDAY 29 Dallas Blooms—Sounds of Spring 9am-5pm The Dallas Arboretum announces “Sounds of Spring” as this year’s Dallas Blooms theme. Free with general admission. Through April 12. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org Last Stop on Market Street 1:30-3pm On a Sunday after church in a bustling, ethnically and culturally diverse American city, CJ and his Nana board the public bus for their weekly trip across town to help out at a soup kitchen. Along the way CJ discovers that everyone and everything has a unique rhythm and purpose. This inspiring and imaginative play is based on The New York Times bestseller. Recommended for ages 4 and older. Tickets from $15. Through April 5. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St., Dallas www.dct.org/plays Inherit the Wind 2:30-4:30pm One of the most outstanding dramas of our time, Inherit the Wind is a fictional dramatization of the notorious 1925 Scopes “Monkey” trial when a Tennessee teacher was jailed for teaching Darwin’s Theory of evolution to his pupils. Tickets from $21. Through April 4. Irving Arts Center, 3333 North MacArthur Blvd, Irving www. irvingartscenter.com

MONDAY 30 Mother Goose Time 11:15-11:45am A lap-sit class designed to encourage interaction between adult and child. Ticket required. For babies ages 0-15 months. Lewisville Library, 1197 W. Main St., Lewisville www.library. cityoflewisville.com Scale Tales 10am-7pm Get an up-close and personal look at reptiles and exotic animals during SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium’s

new interactive show Scale Tales, which gives guests the opportunity to get an up close and personal look at the aquarium’s reptiles and exotic animals that include a bearded dragon, blue tongue skink, ball python and more. Scale Tales is included in the price of admission. Online pricing from $17.99 for adults, from $14.99 for children 3–12 years and free for 2 and younger. Through March 31. SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine www.visitsealife. com/grapevine

TUESDAY 31 InterSkate Bargain Night 5-9pm $2 admission; $2 quad/$5 inline rental. 1408 Texas 121 Business, Lewisville www.interskate.net Andretti Indoor Karting & Games 10am-12am Come experience the grand opening of Andretti Indoor Karting and Games, bringing high-speed electric super karts, bowling, VR gaming, arcade games, a ropes course, unique dining, legendary event space and much more. Andretti Indoor Karting and Games offers nearly 100,000 square feet of nonstop action and excitement. It’s a pay-as-you-go facility with no general admission fee. Fun for kids and adults of all ages. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, 5752 Grandscape Blvd., Suite 100,The Colony www.andrettikarting.com/ thecolony Music and Stories with Kidworks 11am-12pm Bring the kiddos to a storytelling session in the park! Bring your little ones and join us for an hour full of music, movement and fun stories every Tuesday. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas www.klydewarrenpark.org/things-to-do/ events/2020/music-and-stories-with-miss-kimberly.html

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FUN STUFF

In her words

A Note from Martha Washington “I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition.”

COLORFUL EATING Hey, get creative! Eating different colors of the rainbow is a great way to get your kids to eat fruit and vegetables. Simply having different colors of fruits and vegetables available for them to put on their plates enriches their nutrition in a fun and colorful way. So encourage your kids to try new foods. Eat a Rainbow!

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM I was reading some nature stories to my 4 year old, and asked him if he knew that owls were nocturnal. He replied, “Yeeesss, everyone knows that owls are not turtles!” — Mom of one funny boy

Q. How can you tell if a leprechaun is having a good time? is en He A. Wh ith w r Ove Dublin r e t L a ug h

When is an Irish Potato ot an Irish PotaN to? When it’sh a Frenc Fry you call What do tone in a Fa ke S ? Ireland A Sham-Ro

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WHOLESOME ENDING Get your iron

EVERY BITE COUNTS ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH IRON?

3.2 mg

Although you absorb less of the iron in plants, adding a source of vitamin C to vegetarian sources of iron will enhance absorption. Some of the best plant sources of iron are: beans, lentils, tofu, baked potatoes, cashews, dark green leafy vegetables (think spinach), fortified breakfast cereals, whole-grain and enriched breads.

Potatoe patata 2.1 mg

Potatoes contain significant amounts of iron, mostly concentrated in their skins. More specifically, one large, unpeeled potato (10.5 ounces or 295 grams) provides 3.2 mg of iron. Sweet potatoes contain slightly less — around 2.1 mg for the same quantity. Potatoes are also a great source of fiber. Additionally, one portion can cover up to 46% of your daily vitamin C, B6 and potassium requirements.

WHAT ARE TRIGLYCERIDES?

Mad Libs! Have some fun by reinforcing parts of speech with this hilarious classic game of fill-in-the-blanks. The genius of Mad Libs is that you don’t really know what story you are filling in…until the reveal at the end. The results are always odd, and often hilarious. Mad Libs is a great educational game for home, but you can also play it on car journeys. Yea, take a trip!

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. When too many calories are eaten, the body stores them as triglycerides for use at a later time; but when triglyceride levels become too high they may increase the risk of heart disease. What’s Normal? A normal triglyceride level is considered to be below 150 mg/dL, whereas a level about 200 mg/dL is high. Being inactive from too much screen time and not enough exercise puts teens at risk. Avoid high-fat or high-sugar diets!

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Suburban Parent CFL, March 2020

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