Suburban Parent GCS, April 2018

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APRIL 2018 | FREE suburbanparent.com

inform | educate | inspire

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FORT WORTH | ARLINGTON | MID-CITIES

Challenges & Benefits

the everything special arts needs issue

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HAVING A SIBLING WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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Stress Relief, through Music

FRESH TIPS FOR A

Healthier Family

FOR ADHD KIDS

CHECK OUT OUR BOOKSHELF

CHECK OUT OUR

Wholesome Ending

Happy Easter!

ARLINGTON’S CHOICE FOR FAMILY DENTISTRY

Kellie Johnson, Welcoming New Patients!

Dr. Kellie Johnson, DDS has an extensive background in dental medicine and is a member of the following dental organizations: •

Alpha Kappa Alpha

•

American Dental Association

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National Dental Association

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Texas Association of Women Dentists

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Academy of General Dentists

•

Texas Dental Association

DDS

Together with her talented staff, Dr. Johnson builds beautiful smiles for all ages. When visiting her office, you will find state-of-the-art treatment in a relaxed, caring, and comfortable atmosphere.

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Offering many facets of dentistry including: Family, General, Pediatric, Surgical and Cosmetic Dentistry

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Most PPO Insurance, CHIP and Medicaid are accepted

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Payment plans available for extensive dental procedures and non-insured patients

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Accepts most credit cards, care credit and capital one

KELLIE JOHNSON, DDS 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd.

Suite #245 Arlington, TX 76018

817-466-8383

www.happysmilesdentistry.com

maryshares PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

COPY EDITOR Francie Morin

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season that brings happiness and joy. If you have experienced participating in any type of mission to help others, you know pure joy. Working and helping others gives us a joy that can’t be taken away because it’s an experience we share with our creator; it’s giving from the heart. When our lives are linked with godly missions, like motherhood, we recognize that our lives are linked to a belief that we are uniquely suited for this role and a conviction that we have been called to it. Embrace your Grace!

Oh, and let's be happy about the newness of life in our garden; new life is not just for us humans! We can see this through our plants too. While looking at your plants that appear to be dead, know that you can resurrect them. That’s right, you can bring them back to life. Simply trim away as much dead stem as you can find on the plant. Then place the plant in an area where it will get half the amount of sun that is normally recommended, or place it in indirect light. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch but do not let the soil dry out completely. You will be rewarded when new sprouts come from your efforts to save the dead plant.

Now, think about how Our Resurrected Lord can remove the dead wood in our souls when we draw close to Him in prayer. Let Him remove dead wood in your heart to sprout into a renewal of life. Our prayer is to keep His words of truth planted firm within us, to help us to keep focused on what is pure and right.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

— James 1:2-3

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sarah Lyons Kathryn Streeter

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MEET OUR COVER KID...Kylie, 4 years This busy girl enjoys participating in natural (not glitz) pageants. She also does volunteer work as a superhero with the charity group Heroic Inner Kids. She loves to eat bananas.

And, she wants to take care of animals or be a mermaid when she grows up.

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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

stress relief

good enough

through music for ADHD kids

Music not only provides stress relief for kids with ADHD, it can also improve attention, concentration and working memory.

Before, it was believed that ADHD kids needed complete quiet to study effectively and that music would be a distractor, but studies have actually found the opposite to be true (in most cases). TV, on the other hand, was still distracting. So, come homework time, turn off the TV, but go ahead and turn on some tunes. See what happens.

If your teenager has a hard time making decisions, encourage them that sometimes good enough is good enough. Studies show that happy decision makers (known as satisfiers) are the ones who are satisfied when they come across something that fits their criteria. No need to keep looking or second guess the decision. Individuals who strive too hard to make the most informed, intelligent decision (maximizers) are often less effective in making decisions and less happy when they finally do it.

casual friday Here’s another reason to love Casual Friday. A study by the American Council on Exercise found that on days that participants wore jeans to work, they took, on average, 491 more steps than on days they wore normal business attire. That adds up to an extra 25 calories burned just for wearing jeans. That’s not exactly a huge weight loss strategy, but you could bring it up at the next staff meeting. Casual day every day, or at least every Friday!

FOSTERING PURPOSE IN OUR TEENAGERS Leading a life of purpose is a beneficial, but rare experience for youth today. Only about one in five high-schoolers reports having a sense of purpose. The others either feel disengaged or incredibly pressured at school. Our job as parents and educators should be to help these kids identify and start working toward purpose. Having kids talk about what matters to them (in the big picture) is a great place to start. Then we can try to help them connect to opportunities to act on their goals. Modeling our own purpose and fostering gratitude helps too. Youth who pursue a sense of purpose report being happier, more satisfied, and having better physical health.

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Camp teaches resiliency Want more resilient children? Send them to camp. Experts explain that a camp experience, be it residential or a day camp, creates the “perfect blend of conditions that give children what they need to be more resilient.”

Camp gives children manageable amounts of stress and then the support they need to learn how to cope (think a high ropes course or a hike in the woods). By pushing kids out of their comfort zones and encouraging them to try new things, camp not only helps kids find new hobbies and passions (which bolsters their well-being), it also improves their ability to cope with life stressors away from camp.

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2015

questions

q&a Bethany, mom of 4 Q. I’m concerned that my children are becoming addicted to their smartphones and social media.

A. Technology and social media are powerful tools, and recent studies make it clear that children are using too much of both and that it’s making them more anxious, lonely and depressed. What other families have told us is that they are happy when they drop off their kids for overnight camp. Camp is the one place that children will separate from their phone for days at a time and be happy!

Almost every other way that parents limit smartphone usage feels like a punishment and makes the phones more appealing. In contrast, a child attending camp makes face-to-face friends, has fun, is active and is completely tech-free, surrounded by adult roles models that are also tech-free.

Steve Baskin, Owner/Executive Director | Camp Champions

Jen, mom of 1 Q. A staff member at my son’s school recommended we get an auditory processing disorder ruled out. What is an auditory processing disorder?

A. Auditory processing is what your brain does with what you hear. Before being able to complete an auditory processing evaluation you need to rule out a hearing issue first. Students experiencing an auditory processing issue often have difficulty hearing in background noise or understanding when there are multiple people speaking.

They may have difficulty discriminating between similar words like hat and hit. Auditory processing can be impacted by past chronic ear infections, undiagnosed concussions from contact sports or learning differences. It’s wonderful that your school, and most likely a teacher, recognized that your son was having difficulty listening to sounds, and making sense of what his teacher was saying to him or the class.

Tara Wheeler, Au.D., FAAA | Doctor of Audiology | grapevineaudiology.com

Penny, mom of 2 Q. I’m having a tough time trusting my teenager; I need him to be truthful.

A. Your son lied about completing his homework. This feels awful. How can you address the lie without putting him in a position to deny or defend it? You don’t want a show down. You want to be able to trust him. Gently ask, “Would you like a do-over?

It’s important that we trust each other. Would you like to start fresh, son?” “Mom, this is embarrassing!” “I know. We’re in a tight spot. Let’s begin again. Did you complete your homework?” “No. Not the math.” “I know that was hard. I appreciate you being honest. I want to trust you all the time. What can you do, son, to be truthful the in the future?” You’ve just handed him the responsibility for telling the truth.

JoAnn Schauf | yourtweenandyou.com

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PETER, DAD OF 2

ASKS...

Q. My daughter was diagnosed with Autism; I just can’t wrap my head around how this happens.

A. Peter, Generally speaking the cause of Autism has not been specifically identified; however, it is theoretically believed that it is triggered by an environmental factor in combination with a genetic predisposition. Early intervention is a key to success. As a parent and a therapy provider, I would agree 100%. I know this is very, very hard to deal with, but I can tell you that this journey has been a challenging journey for my husband and me, but very rewarding. The most beneficial for my boys has been Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and ABA services.

Kate Lundgren, OTR/L, MBA, CST www.cuttingedge pediatrictherapy.com

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Keep Calm and Play and Soak On SAY BYE BYE TO SOGGY CEREAL Obol – The Original Never Soggy Cereal Bowl! Just Swoop and Scoop your favorite cereal into the milk and every bite is as crispy as the first bite. A built-in grip makes it easy to hold

1 Thera Cube Yes, it’s a fidget! Keep your fingers busy with this cube shaped fidget that features a variety of buttons and balls you can click, glide, and flip.

Use it in the classroom to help with focusing or put it in your pocket for on the go stress relief. One “blank” side has a deeper indentation that feels a tad softer than the other sides that’s perfect for rubbing your thumb against - similar to a worry stone.

Size: 1. 2 x 1.2 x 1.2 inches. $9.99 www.nationalautismresources.com

for all ages. Kids love it! Try

2 Tangle Therapy

it with soup and crackers or

This sensory toy is designed to help relieve stress through smooth repetitive twisting. It features a sensory friendly soft rubber coating

milk and cookies too! Find it online, $19.00

and raised tactile bumps that feel great! People of all ages enjoy holding and moving it. It’s great for use in the home, classroom, or clinic with people ages five and up. Warning: Small part hazard; not recommended for children under the age of five. $12.99 www. nationalautismresources.com

3 Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Next time you’re invited to a backyard shindig, tell your friends you’ll bring the Hot Tub! This easy to operate digital control panel has automatic start/stop timer-controlled heating system. A fast and easy setup – No tools needed. A 4-6 person capacity. On sale now at amazon.com $348.98

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We Serve Children Whose WHOSE WE SERVE CHILDREN DIAGNOSIS MAY INCLUDE...

Diagnosis May Include...

Autism, OCDand andODD ODD Autism,ADHD, ADHD, ADD, OCD

EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM

n ABA, ST, OT and PT OFFERING:

Sensory integration nn ABA, ST, OT and PT

BRIDGE PROGRAM

Self-regulation nn Sensory integration Social learning nn Self-regulation Grouplearning music therapy nn Social Academic nn Group musicsupport/tutoring therapy Music andsupport/tutoring movement nn Academic Fine and motor nn Music and gross movement

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Fully equipped sensory gym

TRANSITION PROGRAM

LOCATIONS: n

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InInPartnership Partnership With WithYour Your Family Family

www.ABC-Pediatrics.com 972-410-5297 info@abc-pediatrics.com

MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

Achievement, Balance, Community EMPOWERING FAMILIES AND CHILDREN TO MOVE MOUNTAINS

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BY KATHRYN STREETER

Want a Healthier Family Life?

Consider these 5 fresh tips

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re you looking at your calendar shaking your head, wondering, how did this happen?

It’s an ongoing challenge, to set boundaries so that the oxygen in our homes isn’t sucked dry by the endless stream of obligations, events and invitations creating exhaustion and unhappiness. Perhaps busyness, one of modern-day families’ greatest enemies, can be beaten back by resolving to make changes to maintain our family’s mental health.

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RECONSIDER: MANY OF THESE ACTIVITIES ARE ACTUALLY OPTIONAL Very often, school notices are invitations.

As kids grow, parents should incrementally step back to be less present in their academic world. Sorry, but your child will outgrow the thrill of seeing you in school halls! In her Slate article, Amanda Ripley wonders if parents’ hovering presence around schools is back-firing overall.

While doing research, she visited top education systems around the world and discovered something “odd” in comparison to American schools: “I hardly saw parents at schools at all.” But surely, we may say, sporting events are different, requiring any supportive parent to be in the bleachers 100% of the time. Sports psychologist Dr. Richard D. Ginsburg, however, pushes back in a New York Times interview, noting that continually bending the family calendar to accommodate the sports schedule communicates that kids are “playing for us and not for themselves.”

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EVEN DURING THE BUSIEST SEASONS, SIT DOWN AND DINE TOGETHER This alone requires resolve, and will be more meaningful if you avoid the temptation to turn weeknight dinners into moments of interrogation, putting kids on the defense. Instead, think of this as a

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quick time of debriefing before they split to get homework done. After all, we want them to willingly show up. I appreciate how Samantha Boardman, MD describes it: “Dinner together should come as a welcome break to punctuate your day and not a dreaded chore or additional source of stress.” Chilling out around the dinner table, even for 15-minutes, and allowing organic conversation to happen will put your kids at ease and increase the likelihood they’ll enjoy time together with you. And that’s no small thing.

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LEARN TO LOVE OUR KIDS’ PASSIONS. ENCOURAGE THEIR PURSUITS Mine has grown to be a foodie. Food and nutrition interests him so much so that I solicit his input for meal planning.

This surprising development, one I couldn’t have anticipated, has put us side-by-side in the kitchen, experimenting with new foods and recipes.

In the US News & World Report, Dr. Gail Saltz highlights the dangers of micro-managing the direction your kids take. She says, “Children who are overscheduled tend to feel highly stressed and have no mental energy left for exploration, curiosity and creative thinking, the very building blocks for developing a true talent.” In short, we’ll need to protect our growing kids from excessive busyness to provide them bandwidth to explore hobbies and interests. They may have our DNA, but the best parenting will allow them space to be who they are, a completely different person, not a min-version of ourselves.

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TAKE WALKS TOGETHER On walks, life slows down, giving way to spontaneous conversation.

It could be walking the dog together or parking a few blocks from our destination to enjoy the fresh air, blue sky and general public life on the sidewalk. The point is, to step away from our screens

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and be in the company of our blossoming children, no matter if conversation happens or not, will always take us forward relationally—and, physically. In Prevention Magazine, authors Sari Harrar and Erin Verkler point out the importance of an ordinary walk. Health benefits include incidental calorie-burning effects and relieving the mind of stress and depression. Harrar and Verkler leave us hungry for more time, more walks, with our kids, whatever their age. Don’t hesitate: Go on a walk with yours!

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WELCOME PEOPLE INTO OUR HOME, OUR FAMILY LIFE When we host a dinner, it should be a joint family effort, one which relies on each member of the family. For a young person with culinary chops, assign the appetizer. For an artistic child, task the making of dinner place cards to assign seats in advance. Dinner place cards locking-in seating assignments will insure our kids are interspersed with guests, not sequestered at one end. Evenings with dinner guests will also allow them to witness hospitality and kindness in real time. “When they watch me offer a guest the best cut of meat, they learn generosity,” says Christine Carter, MD in Great Good Magazine. And because our kids were involved in the preparation, they’ll experience the intrinsic rewards of service. Maybe, too, they’ll learn the art of deft conversation and how to be a gracious guest for when they attend dinner parties one day in the future.

This unwieldy thing called time which we see rapidly coming and going, week after week, isn’t going to change. But we can. Deciding to establish healthy parameters and fresh rhythms in our homes will help create a more connected family life.

It may also provide a memorable picture of health and happiness for our kids to imitate when they are out of the house, managing their own homes.

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timeout community calendar | april 2018

1 | SUNDAY Easter Weekend at the Dallas Arboretum

9am-5pm Enjoy a variety of egg-exciting Easter-themed games on the Camp House Lawn from 10am-2pm. Stop by the Pecan Grove for children’s activities, including face painting and a petting zoo, from 11am-2pm. Free with paid admission. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org

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First Ladies: Style of Influence

12-5pm This new special exhibit examines how the role of the first lady has evolved over time, and how first ladies have used their position to advance diplomacy and other social, cultural, and political initiatives. The exhibit will feature artifacts spanning more than 200 years of White House history. See website for daily museum hours. Tickets from $13. Through Oct. 1.

George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas www. bushcenter.org

2-3pm Hop aboard the Grapevine Easter Bunny Train. This one-hour train ride will include the Easter Bunny and candy for the children.

The entire family will enjoy this true railroad experience.

Tickets range $8–$10. 705 S Main St, Grapevine www. grapevinetexasusa.com

2 | MONDAY

4 | WEDNESDAY

Mommy and Me Mondays

ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids Story and Craft Time

10am-2pm Join us at the Dallas Arboretum in the Pecan Grove every Monday during Blooms Festival, for facepainting, a petting zoo, and a 12pm interactive performance from KinderMusik. Free with paid admission. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org/visit/calendar#

Journey to Space at the Perot Museum

JumpstART Stories and Art—Colors!

10am-12pm Parents can bring their children to JumpstART, a free monthly program that

Submit by 10th of the month PRIOR to their birthday.

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5 | THURSDAY

UPLOAD YOUR BIRTHDAY KIDS PICTURE @ suburbanparent.com

Nathan

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10:30-11:30am Come to the Whole Foods Market each Wednesday for stories, crafts and healthy snacks at the Highland Village store’s kids area near the cafe. Each story time features a new story and craft for the kids to take home; snacks and refreshments for the kids will be provided. For kids ages 2–6 with an adult. Free. 4041 Waller Creek, Highland Village www. wholefoodsmarket.com

3 | TUESDAY 10am-5pm The Journey to Space exhibition will take you as close to being in space as you can get without leaving Earth. It’s an incredible and unforgettable hands-on, climb-aboard cosmic adventure of science fun and

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learning that you can’t find anywhere else. You’ll experience the sights, sounds, and smells on board an orbiting space station, and find out first-hand just what it takes to be an astronaut working in the hostile environment of space. See website for ticket information. Through May 6.

2201 N Field St, Dallas www. perotmuseum.org

Grapevine Easter Train

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combines art and children’s literature. Kids ages 2 and older will work on a fun takehome art project, enjoy story time, then browse the galleries with their parents. JumpstART takes place the first Thursday of each month. All supplies provided. For kids 2 and up.

Free. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving www. irvingartscenter.com

6 | FRIDAY Family Night at Six Flags Over Texas

6-11pm. A private event hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary to benefit Children’s Health. Let’s ride roller coasters and raise funds to help the children of North Texas live happier, healthier lives. $40 advanced tickets at childrens.com/sixflags. See ad in this issue.

Deep Ellum Arts Festival

11am-11pm Admission is free for the 24th annual Deep Ellum Arts Festival. Six blocks of Main Street in the Deep Ellum entertainment district will be transformed into one enormous street festival. Featuring 200 decorative and visual artists, 150 bands and singer/ songwriters, the renowned Pet Parade, and more. Hours on Sunday, April 8: 11am–8pm.

This is an ADULT-oriented visual and performing arts festival. Supervised children and teenagers are welcome during the day. Main Street, Deep Ellum www.deepellumartsfestival.com

Curious George – The Golden Meatball

5-6:30pm All You-Can-Eat Meatball Day came just once a year. George had been waiting all month for that day, With every swing and flip, George takes the audience through a fun-filled adventure, in which he learns more about Rome... and meatballs... and the secret ingredient to cooking. $11 adults; $7 children age 12 and younger. Through April 28.

Artisan Theater, 418 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www.artisanct.com

Fan Expo Dallas

4-8:30pm Jeff Goldblum, Val Kilmer, and Chuck Norris are among the many celebrities scheduled to appear at this pop culture convention.

There will also be a Back to the Future reunion with Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson and

Tom Wilson. Tickets start at $25. Through April 8. Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, 650 S Griffin St, Dallas fanexpodallas.com

First Fridays at the Farm

10am-12pm Featuring family-friendly educational experiences designed to teach life skills that were important to a Texas farm in the 19th century.

Daily life in Texas during the late 1800s required knowledge of a number of skills, methods and even recipes that will be demonstrated during the monthly sessions.

Work alongside Nash Farmhands to learn heritage skills.

Each month features a different theme. April’s theme: Gardening. $3 per person. Kids 3 and up. Nash Farm, 626 Ball St, Grapevine www.grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm

Special Needs Swim Night

6:30-8:30pm The entire REC Aquatic Center will be reserved for this event. Special needs swimmers will have access to all water activities including racing down the slides, swimming around the lazy river, a game of water basketball and more.

The pool is equipped with a wheelchair lift, ramp. Register online at gograpevinereg. com, in-person at The REC, or by calling 817/410-3450.

Free for REC members; $5 per person for nonmembers.

The REC of Grapevine, 1175 Municipal Way, Grapevine gograpevine.com

7 | SATURDAY Country Critters Farm Open Weekends

Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm.

Bounce houses, tractor playground, petting zoo, pony rides and more. $10/person.

3709 County Rd 617, Alvardo 817-477-3060 www.countrycrittersfarm.com. See ad in this issue.

DFW Family Expo

10am-5pm Shop, learn, play and discover the best products, entertainment and services from local and national exhibitors at this annual family expo benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities. $5 per person in advance; $6 at door. Free for kids under 2.

Dallas Market Hall, 2200 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas dfwfamilyexpo.org

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timeout Farmers Market Opening Day & Get Fit 5K

8am-1pm Join us for the 2018 season opener of the Grand Prairie Farmers Market. The Farmers Market is open Saturdays from April through December, featuring locally grown fruits and vegetables, meats, honeys, pastries, desserts, pastas, spices, chips and salsas, tamales, candles, soaps and much more! Opening Day 2018 will also feature the Grand Prairie Get Fit 5K and the Mayor’s No Frills Walk/Stroll. For more info, call 972-237-4599 or email us at farmersmarket@gptx.org. 120 W. Main Street, Grand Prairie, TX grandfungp.com

Flea Style

9am-5pm Flea Style (formerly The Dallas Flea) takes over 80,000 square feet at Market Hall North to showcase the best of the best handmade, vintage and one-of-a-kind wares from Texas artisans and small businesses. Expect 200plus vendors offering art, furniture, paper goods, fashion, jewelry, dog gear and more.

In addition to shopping unqiue goods, shoppers will enjoy incredible giveaways, live DJ spins, food trucks and adult beverages during the fun daylong event. The first 100 shoppers receive a free tote bag. $5 Saturday general admission. Free for kids 12 and younger. 2200 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas fleastyle.com

8 | SUNDAY Dallas Blooms

9am-5pm Final day for “A World of Flowers.” This annual event is one of the largest floral festivals in the southwest, with over a 100 varieties of spring bulbs exploding with color and 500,000 blooms that will dazzle you.

Join us at the International Crossroads Village, located in Pecan Grove. See website for ticket information. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org/blooms

2018 Arlington Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5k

7-11am Come join us at UTA’s Maverick Stadium to kick off the Inaugural Arlington Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K! See old friends and make

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new ones. Runners and race walkers from all over the community are welcome. Whether you are a competitive runner, mid-pack runner, jogger or walker, everyone will have a great time. Registration starts at $40. 1307 West Mitchell Street, Arlington www. arlington.org/event/2018-arlington-marathon-half-marathon-%26-5k/19520

9 | MONDAY The Little Mermaid

7:30-9:30pm Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. Tickets from $22 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger.

Through May 12. See website for all dates and show times.

444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www. artisanct.com

10 | TUESDAY InterSkate Bargain Night

5-9pm Bring the whole family to InterSkate for some skating fun every Tuesday evening for Bargain Night! Only $4 admission (includes regular skate rental); $4 inline rental.

1408 Texas 121 Business, Lewisville www.interskate.net

11 | WEDNESDAY Mother Goose Story Time

10-10:30am This caregiver and child story time is interactive and is for babies between 1-2 years of age. Activities include songs, rhymes, games, and a story, followed by free play. Free. Southlake Public Library, 1400 Main Street, Suite 130, Southlake www.cityofsouthlake.com

12 | THURSDAY Ridgmar Mall Kids’ Club

11am-12pm Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Enjoy a variety of themed programs that focus on discovery through play, arts and crafts, activities, giveaways and more. All Kids Club events are held on a

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APRIL 2018

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timeout special Thursday each month on the lower level across from SeaQuest. Free. 1888 Green Oaks Rd, Fort Worth www.ridgmar.com

13 | FRIDAY Day Out With Thomas: Big Adventures Tour

9am-6pm Head to the tracks and take a ride in a real-life Thomas train, then be sure to find the railway controller Sir Topham Hatt and grab a photo. Other activities include story time, where you can listen to Thomas’ adventures as they are read aloud. Trains depart every 45 minutes beginning at 9 a.m. The last train departs at 5:15 p.m. on Fridays and 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets start at $21. Through April 22. Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 707 S Main St, Grapevine www. g r a p e v i n e t ex a s u s a .c o m / events/day-out-with-thomas

14 | SATURDAY Connor’s Car Show

11am-4pm Join thousands of spectators and see more than 500 cars, trucks and motorcycles on display at this fifth annual event. The event raises awareness about Down syndrome and raises funds for Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas and Cook Children’s. Enjoy food, drinks, a face painter and a Keller city fire truck on view. Items will be for sale via live auctions. Free. Keller Town Hall, 1100 Bear Creek Pkwy., Keller www.connorscarshow.com

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY • Mosaics • Canvas Painting • Glass Fusion • Pottery Wheel Classes • Birthday Parties • Kids Night Out • Adult Art Classes

15 | SUNDAY Up Close With a Village Artisan

Sign Up for Summer Camps!

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Walk-Ins Welcome 150 N. Main St. Grapevine, TX 76051 817-424-1417 www.SunshineGlaze.com

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1:30-3:30pm Explore new frontiers at the Tompkins Cabin as some of village interpreters demonstrate historic skills with a modern sensibility. The materials may be contemporary, but the techniques are timeless. No reservations required. Featured artisan: drop spindle and wheel spinning.

Free with paid admission. Log Cabin Village, 2100 Log Cabin Village Ln, Fort Worth www. logcabinvillage.org

16 | MONDAY Spring Open House at North Central Ballet

Try out our classes for FREE today through 4/28 (new students only). Meet our staff.

Enjoy complimentary refreshments. Get free dance-wear with registration. All ages 2+ are welcome. RSVP at NorthCentralBallet.com. 817-4289232. See ad in this issue.

17 | TUESDAY Home School Nature Class

1-3pm Join a naturalist for a science-related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park.

Learn about local ecosystems, watch how animals and plants interact, and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park. Themes will vary each session. Preregistration required. Today’s theme: Junior Botanist $14 per student; $12 early registration. Kids ages 9–14 years.

1650 Matlock Rd, Mansfield www.olivernaturepark.com

18 | WEDNESDAY Cine de Oro: Su Excelencia

10am–12pm Join us the 3rd Wednesday of every month for Cine de Oro, our monthly movie screening series.

In this 1967 Mexican political satire film directed by Miguel M. Delgado, Cantinflas accidentally becomes ambassador and takes the opportunity to express unappreciated opinions and has to decide the fate of one hundred nations. Free. Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street, Dallas 214-671-0045 www. artandseek.org

19 | THURSDAY Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival

10am-10pm Thousands of visitors will take in the sights, sounds and tastes of this annual arts fest, now in its 33rd year. Browse artists booths lining the charming red-brick streets of downtown Fort Worth. Main St. will feature 223 artists from across the country, entertainers on four outdoor

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stages, authentic Texas cuisine, and artsy activities for the whole family. Free. Through April 22. Sundance Square, 201 Main St, Fort Worth www. mainstreetartsfest.org

20 | FRIDAY EarthX Expo, Conference and Film

Our unique open concept office provides a cheerful and enthusiastic environment to educate and promote oral health for the children of our community. We are excited to share this journey with you and your family.

Accepting Medicaid, CHIPS and Private Pay Insurance at ALL locations!

Accepting New Patients at all Locations NORTH OFFICE 696 N. Fielder Ste. 102 • Arlington 817-459-1313

SOUTH OFFICE 4220 Little Rd, Arlington 817-478-2300

CENTRAL OFFICE 3101 S. Center St. Arlington 817-466-7057

MANSFIELD OFFICE 2300 Matlock Rd. Ste. 28 • Mansfield 817-539-0500

www.fundentist.com

10am-6pm EarthX Expo, Conference and Film brings a diverse group of thought leadership and solution creators together from April 20-22, 2018, at Fair Park in Dallas. The Expo features a range of activities to enjoy such as interactive scavenger hunts, an Outdoor Adventure Zone including scuba diving and tree climbing, film, virtual reality, Goat Yoga, EarthxSolar, Tiny Homes showcase, education competitions, a Green Auto Show and more.

For more information about the expo, conferences and film festival please visit earthx. org. Free. 1121 First Ave., Dallas earthx.org/#engage

Grand Prairie Main St. Fest

ERIC BELL SOCCER ACADEMY AT TCU JUNE 4-7, 2018 JUNE 11-14, 2018 • HALF DAY & FULL DAY CAMP OPTIONS •

JULY 12-15, 2018 RESIDENTIAL CAMP YOUTH ELITE • COLLEGE ID • GOALKEEPER CAMP FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER, PLEASE VISIT

www.ericbellsocceraCademy.com 817-257-6680

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5pm-12am The City of Grand Prairie Parks, Arts and Recreation Department is hosting the 7th Annual Main Street Fest, scheduled for April 20th - 22nd on the 200 block of W. Main Street and surrounding areas. Along with our selected performers, the festival will celebrate the fun, festive, family atmosphere of Grand Prairie with LIVE! music featuring headlining performances featuring country, red dirt country, rock, spectacular novelty shows, carnival rides, arts & crafts area, business expo, food and beer gardens, the Earth Day KIDZONE, and so much more! Free. 200 block of W. Main Street, Grand Prairie www.mainstreetfest.com

21 | SATURDAY North Texas Teen Book Festival 2018

7:30am-5pm Readers of teen and tween literature, hold on to your bookmarks! More than 70 of the nation’s best and newest Young Adult and Middle Grade authors are coming to the North Texas Teen Book Festival. Participate in panel discussions, cutting-edge publisher events and book signings. Ad-

mission is free. Parking costs $8. Book sale area opens at 8 a.m. Wristbands are required for select signing lines and publisher events. Signing lines are from 3 to 5 p.m. Free. Irving Convention Center, 500 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving www.nttbf.org

Spring Into Nash

10am-2pm Spring is the perfect time to bring the entire family to Grapevine’s Historic Nash Farm. Children and adults alike will enjoy learning what life was like when the city’s earliest settlers made their home in Grapevine.

Activities at the 17th Annual Spring Into Nash include heritage toys, kitchen gardening, cotton planting, farm animals, tractor-drawn wagon rides, field cultivation, wood carving demonstrations, jump rope making, wood-burning stove cooking demonstrations and blacksmith demonstrations.

Certain activities require coupons that can be purchased on site. 626 Ball St, Grapevine www.grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm/events/ spring-into-nash

22 | SUNDAY

Prego Expo Dallas

11:30am. Come to the national pregnancy, parenting and baby event filled with knowledgeable vendors, experts and lots of goodies that will assist with Before, During and After the Bump. Hyatt Regency Dallas, 300 Reunion Blvd, Dallas. Tickets $15 in advance, $18 at the door.

ThePregoExpo.com. See ad in this issue.

Camp Preview at Camp Fire Camp El Tesoro

See for yourself what makes El Tesoro a special place.

RSVP 817-806-5451. CampFireFW.org. See ad in this issue.

Open Weekends this Spring

Saturday: 10am-5pm • Sunday: 1-5pm Gates close at 4pm • Open weekdays by reservation only.

Admission: $10 per person, kids 2 and under are free.

AAivities include: Bounce houses, traaor and train playground, peeing zoo, pony rides, barrel train, hay ride, wooden maze, duu races (duus are $1), and other game areas.

5

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timeout Esto Es Mexico, Sima Ballet Folklorico Mexicano

Campers learn while they PLAY

• JUNE 11-15 • JUNE 18-22 • JULY 16-20 • JULY 23-27

972-883-2898 luis.salinas@utdallas.edu

Chess develops reading, math, critical and analytical skills, and builds character and self-esteem. Just don’t tell the kids... they think chess is fun!

Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7 to 14 on the UT Dallas campus. Camp includes a T-shirt, chess board and pieces, trophy, certificate, score book, group photo, snacks and drinks.

The UT Dallas Chess Team recently tied for second at the college championships for the Western Hemisphere (North, Central and South Americas).

2018 SUMMER CHESS CAMP

7-9pm Sima Ballet Folklorico presents a spectacular show featuring Pindekuecha, a band renowned for their take on traditional Purepecha music.

It will be a spectacular show full of culture, color, and love.

This is Mexico! $26.50. 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving www. irvingartscenter.com/event/esto-es-mexico-sima-ballet-folklorico-mexicano

Space Mission at LEGOLAND Discovery Center

10am-6pm Reach a new altitude of fun with Space Mission at LEGOLAND Discovery Center. The new intergalactic building experience allows guests to explore far-off alien planets built entirely out of thousands of LEGO® bricks.

Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Through December 31. Free with paid admission.

3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Grapevine Faith Christian School Open House

7pm. Grapevine Faith exists to develop and graduate authentic Christian leaders. Pre-K – 12th Grade. 729 E. Dallas Rd, Grapevine, 817-442-1605 GrapevineFaith.com.

Les Misérables

7:30-9:30pm Presented by Dallas Summer Musicals.

With its glorious new staging and dazzlingly re-imagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this breathtaking new production has left both audiences and critics awestruck. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption. See website for all dates and show times.

Through May 6. Tickets from $20. Fair Park Music Hall, 909 1st Ave, Dallas www.dallassummermusicals.org

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COVER MODELS

23 | MONDAY

24 | TUESDAY

24

We’re Searching for

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.

25 | WEDNESDAY Summer Workshop at Explore Horizons

3-8pm. Experience a range of engaging workshops designed to inspire children of all abilities. Keep your child’s brain active and discover how to help your child beat the summer slide. Call 469310-3310 or visit www.explore-horizons.com. See ad in this issue.

26 | THURSDAY Toddler Time

10:15 am - 11:15 am Toddler Time taps into the boundless energy of your toddler.

This storytime program will engage your children with short stories, finger plays, action rhymes, and songs.

Your toddler will be learning sounds, letter recognition, and new words that will help them grow into pre-readers all while having fun. For walk-

Them Summeed Campsr

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timeout ers up to age 3. Free. Southwest Branch Library, 3311 SW Green Oaks Blvd.Arlington arlingtonlibrary.org

27 | FRIDAY Social Science – Formulate

7-11pm Attention MOMS and DADS! Sans kids, Social Science lets you party and play at the Perot Museum while unlocking your inner geek.

Exclusively for the 21-and-older crowd, the quick-to-sellout evening event makes for a cool and quirky date night, complete with eclectic cocktails, craft beers, food by Wolfgang Puck, performances, innovative experiments, engaging discussions and unique inventions. $25 for museum members; $35 for nonmembers. 2201 N Field St, Dallas www.perotmuseum.org

28 | SATURDAY Open House at North Richland Hills Montessori

10am-2pm. 8725 North Tarrant Pkwy, North Richland Hills 817-281-9992 www.nrhmontessori.com. See ad in this issue.

Earth Day Mansfield

10am-4pm Children’s Area, Kid’s Fishing Tournament, Rain Barrel Auction, Music, Dancers, Natural Product Vendors, Tiny House and Smart Car Displays, Environmental Education, Food Trucks, Beverages and More! Free Festival and Free Parking! Chris W. Burkett Service Center, 620 S. Wisteria St., Mansfield www. arlington.org

Safari Nights at the Dallas Zoo

6-9pm Have a rockin’ good time at the largest Zoo in Texas, listening to tribute bands and local artists alike on Saturday evenings from April 28 through July 14.

Come see more than 2,000 animals during the day, then enjoy special after-hours programming at night. Bring your own chairs and blankets, and enjoy a variety of indulgent

treats, including food truck fare and cold drafts on tap from the craft beer garden.

Free for members, and included with non-members’ paid Zoo admission. 650 South R L Thornton Freeway, Dallas www.dallaszoo.com

Cupcakes for a Cause

11am-2pm Join us for an afternoon of delicious cupcakes from bakeries all over DFW and fun indoor & outdoor activities including cupcake-eating contests, Zorb ball racing, face painting, and more! All proceeds from the event go to support LEAP Global Missions, a Dallas-based nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and enriching the lives of people around the world by providing free specialized surgical and medical care. Visit the website for more information. $15/ child. University Park United Methodist Church, 4024 Caruth Blvd, Dallas cupcakesforacausedallas.org

29 | SUNDAY Artscape Fine Art and Craft Fair

9am-5pm Artscape, the Dallas Arboretum’s fine art and craft show and sale, brings together outstanding artists from around the country.

The show features a variety of mediums including painting, sculpture, 2-D and 3-D mixed media, photography and more. Free with general admission. Parking $15. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org

30 | MONDAY The Little Mermaid

7:30-9:30pm Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. Tickets from $22 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger.

Through May 12. See website for all dates and show times.

444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www. artisanct.com

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 GOTTA

for the health of it

LOVE ‘EM Our 4 year old daughter loves Grilled Cheese sandwiches, so much that when her brother asked for one she quickly responded, “No, you can’t!” He asked why, and she replied, “because silly, it’s a Girl-Cheese sandwich, not a Boy-Cheese sandwich.”

Laughter increases the release of endorphins — those awesome chemicals in the brain that make us feel good.

— Teri D., Irving

April is National Humor Month! So let’s have some fun with a prank or two. Just make sure your pranks are going to be fun for everyone. Remember, laughter and joy lead to an improved well-being and an enriched quality of life.

• How about your kids waking up to a Frozen Breakfast!

Simply put cereal and milk into a bowl and let it freeze overnight. When the hungry kids try to dig-in they will be quite surprised!

• Then there’s the juice fool. Ask if anyone wants juice.

Then serve them with what looks like juice until they can’t slurp it up in a straw, because it’s actually Jello!

Go ahead and give them a spoon!

You kidding me?

word hunt C E A S T E R I N I S H K B

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P A S S W S F R K K G G O T A E G R B A D I R E R A N D D S S E N D N G U E W C G R

S U P L Y O I O D Y R H G A

O M U R H W T F L O W E R S

V H H W I H R E K L L T E S

E R S C A N D Y P D L U H D

R I P C H T D O R S M B H E E U G E G R T E O S H W L T N N S L D L I P P G S T F K

n BEETS n BIRDS n BUNNY n CANDY n EASTER n EGGS n FLOWERS n GARDEN n GRASS

p n GROW

n HOMEGROWN n PASSOVER n RAIN n SPRING n TULIP

wholesomeending

prep at night We parents are busy; so let’s try to simplify!

How about a quick morning meal, of simple and delicious oats!

An Herb to Focus On Hey, did you know that you can increase your focus and short term memory, in two minutes, by simply inhaling the scent of fresh or dried basil? Yep, according to study author, Babar Ali, Ph.D, the oils in this herb prompt our brain to release focus-enhancing neurotransmitters like acetylcholine. After inhaling, throw some basil in your salad – I’m sure you’ll remember!

So before you shut off the lights in the kitchen, get out a mason jar, fill the bottom with a half cup uncooked Quaker Oats, add a half cup of milk (you can use Almond Milk too) or plain yogurt, drizzle with honey, and top with fruit or chopped nuts. Cover and let cold steep overnight in the fridge. In the morning, just stir and eat! The 100% whole grain oats are great for breakfast because they provide 4g of fiber per serving—and fiber helps keep things moving along in your digestive tract.

dry brushing,

with up strokes (towards the heart) Dry brushing is one of those “feel good” experiences that not only invigorates the skin, but also stimulates the lymphatic system - you know, like the removal of excess fluids from body tissues! Best to dry brush in the morning while your shower is warming up.

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tip If you have a child that is not sleeping well, try giving them a body pillow. Squeezing it makes them feel more secure.

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