PLANO \ FRISCO \ MCKINNEY \ RICHARDSON \ ALLEN \ AND MORE
April 2019 \ FREE
suburbanparent.com
Creative Play
LET THEM BUILD FORTS
WHY CAMP SONGS MAKE US HAPPY ACCORDING TO SCIENCE
IT’S AN ESSENTIAL LIFE SKILL
APRIL SHOWERS = HOME HAPPY HOURS
UNLIKELY FRIENDSHIPS AND UNLIKELY LOVES a book to wow
ART ON DART WINNERS
MARY SHARES
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
WELCOME TO APRIL AND HAPPY EASTER
Mary Ellen Caldwell, RD, LD, CLT editor@suburbanparent.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com
COPY EDITOR Francie Morin
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have the pleasure of hearing from our readership who so graciously lets us know how much they enjoy our publications, and more importantly, how much our magazines have helped them in some way. One mom told us that our magazine has “a talent” for knowing what our readers need to know. The word talent was what really struck me. I could not help but think of where talent comes from. I was told once that our talent is God’s gift to us, what we do with our talent is our gift back to God. Nothing could be better than that, right? I have also heard it said that your talent and your passion often go hand in hand. You could spend hours focused on your passion (talent) and not realize how much time has passed. Has that ever happened to you? I am passionate about several things. Being a wife and mother tops the list; hmm, is that a talent? I don’t think so, but I am passionate about my family. As a licensed Registered Dietitian, I have always had a passion to help people and families to live healthfully to reduce risks of disease. Of course, now I have a much larger audience to enlighten and advise. So when you come across anything in our magazine having to do with food and nutrition, you can be sure that there was intent and passion in publishing that information for you! Take some time to think of what you are passionate about, and where your talent lies. God created each of us with unique skills and abilities – what’s yours?
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pam Moore Jan Pierce
CALENDAR EDITOR Paula Leonard
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com
AD DESIGNERS Alex Canales So Hee Lee Won
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Julie Lesser Williams
AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com
ACCOUNTING Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com
CONTACT US
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Our Cover Kid
Kinsley, 6 yrs Kinsey proudly marches to the beat of her own drum. She has a big heart and will do anything to see others smile. She loves animals and once collected sticks to leave for birds to help them build a nest. When she grows up, she wants to be “a mom that’s a rockstar.”
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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.
YOU SHOULD KNOW Finance + Health
BAD COMBO
FINANCIAL STRESS AND UNHEALTHY EATING HABITS
BUILD THEIR TALENT & CONFIDENCE With so much focus on academics and therapies, parents often undervalue what after-school activities can do for their special needs children. But they shouldn’t. Extracurricular activities offer opportunities to build the talents their children may have regardless of their special needs. They also provide new and different ways to connect with other kids. They teach skills not taught in the classroom. They help build confidence. And, they can develop lifelong interests. Whether music, art, sports, dance, scouts, or something else; choose an activity that they actively enjoy. This is their time to shine and have fun. For a list of ideas, read more on our website at www.suburbanparent.com.
Long term stress, such as stress due to finances, can cause spikes in stress hormones. These spikes can lead people to overeat and choose foods higher in fat or sugar. Not surprising then, research finds that those who aren’t stressed about money are more likely to eat healthily. That doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t have money issues; it just means they manage the stress better and don’t let it affect other areas of their life (like their eating habits). Who knew having a financial plan could help with weight loss? Warmth and Compassion A three-decade study found that children with emotionally warm parents grew up to be more compassionate adults. The study followed over 2700 three to 18 year olds from 1980 to 2012. Findings show that while parents’ warmth led to adult compassion in all age groups, it mattered more for younger children compared to adolescents. So give those little ones hugs when they need them. It could have lasting implications on their compassion as grown-ups.
YOUTH BODY IMAGE TEEN TIME Studies show that teens who spend time with their parents have better social skills and higher self-esteem. One study found that time spent with parents doing cultural activities (like discussing books or going on outings) was a better predictor of a teen’s aspirations than time spent together on school activities. Teens are crazy busy at school, we know, but it’s worth spending quality time with them outside of school too. Visit us online at www.suburbanparent.com for great ways to give your kids positive, non-school related, attention.
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It’s hard to believe, but studies show that children as young as 5 are experiencing anxiety and unhappiness with their physical appearance. Following mom’s lead, many kids express a desire to be thinner. By age 7, one in four children has attempted dieting behavior. Since kids primarily learn about body image from their parents, we need to watch what we say about ourselves and others. We must put more emphasis on exercise and healthy eating than on weight. And we should remember to focus on people’s inward qualities rather than on their outward appearance.
QUESTIONS
Q
I want to raise bilingual children. Do I have to understand the second language my child is learning?
No, parents are not required to understand the language their child is learning. The program is designed for each student to grow in their use of a second language through the interaction with native speakers from around the world. We, of course, welcome any parents that would like to learn the language with their children! Investing in language education is a wonderful and bold move, knowing that there is a growing need for a multilingual workforce in their future! Using online programs like ours, you do not have to uproot your family and move to another country to learn a second language; learning comes directly to your home, office or on the go! Amalia Torres \ Happy and Bilingual School www.happyandbilingual.com
Q
Q
Where do children learn the ‘fear of missing out’? How can the climate at home relieve this fear?
FOMO (fear of missing out) is nothing new. Social psychologists have long documented our desire to be affiliated with other people. Studies have supported that infants as young as eight weeks have the desire to engage socially with others. Today, FOMO is typically attributed to the prevalence of social media. Prior to Facebook, the opportunities for social comparison were limited to the playground or the PTA meeting. Now, parents have unprecedented access to the activities and accomplishments of families in their social circle. Thought leaders in the FOMO-sphere recommend mindfulness practices as well as gratitude journals to help us focus on what we have. With age comes the understanding that “there’s always more to do.” Seraphina’s Dad helped her understand that balance.
Why is ABA the most recognized therapy for children diagnosed on the autism spectrum?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidenced-based therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. Therapists have used ABA to help children with autism and related developmental disorders since the early 1960s. Behavior analysis helps us to understand how behavior works, how behavior is affected by the environment, and how learning takes place. ABA therapy applies our understanding of how behavior works to real situations. The goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or affect learning. ABA therapy programs can help increase language and communication skills; improve attention, focus, social skills, memory, and academics; and decrease problem/ harmful behaviors. A qualified behavior analyst designs, oversees and customizes the therapy program to each learner’s needs. Kelly Walker \ Clinical Director Behavioral Innovations www.behavioral-innovations.com
Q
How do you choose the best summer camp for your child?
Melissa Gratias, Ph.D. \ International speaker, coaching and consulting, blogger, and author \ melissagratias.com
Choosing a camp can be an extensive process filled with price and activity comparisons and the ever present “is my child ready” question. As a mom of past campers and a current camp director, I encourage parents to take some time for research and consider their kids’ point of view. Is there a new skill they want to develop or a specific area you want them to grow in? With a better understanding of your child’s hopes and expectations, you can narrow down the list of potential destinations. Consider the long-term effects camp will have on your child in areas such as independence and developing crucial life skills to choose a place they will thrive.
See her book Seraphina Does EVERYTHING! on page 12.
Trish Barnes \ Executive Women’s Director \ www.kanakuk.com
Our Experts Melissa Gratias Speaker, coaching, blogger, and author melissagratias.com
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Amalia Torres Happy and Bilingual School happyandbilingual.com
Kelly Walker Behavioral Innovations behavioral-innovations.com
Trish Barnes Kanakuk Kamps kanakuk.com
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9
WE
THIS
Fun therapy
PLAYABLE ART BALL The incredible Playable Art Ball is a mesmerizing sensory item that twists and moves to create a wide variety of designs and shapes. This item is perfect for kids, teens, and adults who are highly visual. Using twenty brightly colored 1.5” birch wood balls that are interconnected, you can bend and move them in a variety of directions or take them apart and rearrange the colors. A fun quiet activity that can be taken anywhere! Please note: this item is not recommended for children under three. $29.99. www.nationalautismresources.com
PATCH
OFFBEAT A game of rhythm
Moms are always looking for ways to keep their littles protected from scratches, abrasions, burns, bites and splinters. Well, we have you covered moms, check out this award-winning brand! Hypoallergenic, biodegradable strips are crafted from flexible bamboo fiber and imbued with different natural ingredients to soothe, fight infection, and protect. Visit www.patchstrips.com
Can you feel (and keep) the beat? This super fun rhythm and sequence game gets the whole family snapping and clapping together! In this game your mind needs to keep up with your hands, while staying in the right sequence of sounds. Fall off-beat or do the wrong action, you are out of the round! Perfect game for family fun! We found it at www.fatbraintoys.com, $19.95.
GOOD JOB REWARD CHART Everyone loves rewards – especially kids on the spectrum. This chart helps kids develop, track and earn rewards for their responsibilities and good behavior. The chart features magnetic tiles and stickers corresponding to common household tasks, from “Make the Bed” and “Help with Dinner” to “Do Homework” and more. Kids and parents can track daily progress with the set’s positive accomplishment magnets! We found it at www.learningresources.com, $24.99, Ages 3 and up.
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FITNESS WALKING By BungyPump Hey, moms and dads! Take some time for yourselves with the BungyPump fitness poles. They can transform a walk or hike into a total body workout that activates 90% of your muscles. BungyPump features built-in suspension and provides smooth and steady resistance every time the poles are pressed down. These poles are made for strengthening not only your legs, but your core and arms as well. $125, www.thegrommet.com
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BOOK SHELF
Raising a child in our digital world
VIRAL PARENTING
A parenting guide for raising responsible, safe, and communicative kids in the digital world; while offering a savvy perspective toward privacy. Mindy shares all the tools she uses to establish family rules for kids of all ages about bullying, respectfulness, privacy and family time. With the use of real cell phone contracts, example allowance agreements, and other tangible solutions to real-life problems, Mindy provides answers to the tough parenting questions in a step-by-step approach. Mindy McKnight \ For Families
Changing the world through words
SHAKING THINGS UP
Readers will meet Mary Anning, who at thirteen unearthed a prehistoric fossil. And Ruby Bridges, the brave six year old who helped end segregation in the South. And Maya Lin, who at twenty-one won a competition to create a war memorial. And those are just a few. All these stories will enthrall and inspire the reader. And you will love the poetry collection too! Susan Hood \ For Families
Teaches life balance for kids ages 7-12
SERAPHINA DOES EVERYTHING
Young Seraphina through her various hobbies, clubs, sports, etc., finds herself overwhelmed and underprepared to succeed in her jam-packed schedule of activities. With a little help from her father, Seraphina learns that being selective about the opportunities she chooses will help her create a beautiful, balanced life. She finds that her activities do not define her, because everything she needs is already within her. Helpful resources for parents and educators! Milissa Gratias \ For families
UNLIKELY FRIENDSHIPS + UNLIKELY LOVES Surprising emotional bonds that exist Unlikely Friendships and Unlikely Loves, reveal the surprising emotional bonds that exist between animals of different species. Ms. Holland has opened our eyes to the rich inner lives of animals, showing us that the power of love and friendship is not for humans only. In Unlikely Heroes, she uncovers and celebrates yet another side of animals that we often think belongs primarily to people—heroism, that indefinable quality of going above and beyond. Like the pod of dolphins who protected swimmers in New Zealand from a great white shark by forming a screen around them. WOW! Jennifer S. Holland \ For Families
A loving memory of a boy
THE BOAR NAMED BOB
Bob is a boar who loves to play in the mud. When Bob meets Freddy the frog, there is even more fun to be had in the mud with his new friend. That is, until Bob smells corn and gets caught in a hog trap! Bob and Freddy learn about teamwork, friendship, and overcoming obstacles in The Boar Named Bob. This book was written and illustrated in 1992 by ten-year-old Cole Barker. Cole lived his life to the fullest. Cole’s life ended in 2017 at age thirty-five while skiing in the Colorado Rockies. The book was brought to his family by his fifth-grade teacher when she attended his memorial service. Cole Barker \ For Families
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13
creative play
let them By Jan Pierce
W
hen I was eight years old I decided it would be fun to live in a travel trailer. Our family didn’t happen to have one, so I set about building one for myself. I dreamed about parking it near the back of our property and living there, wild and free. I was a logical child, so I started at the beginning. A
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trailer stood on wheels—I’d have to make those first. I found an old saw and some plywood and began trying to saw in a circle. It wasn’t easy, but I hacked out some circle-like things and moved on. Next I’d need the floor of the trailer. I found some two by fours, nails and a hammer and pounded them together in ninety degree angles.
or ahneyr ot tive crearojects p
So far, so good. Then something unimaginable happened. My nasty older cousin came for a visit and found my project. He not only made fun of it, he tore it apart. I had already begun to entertain some self-doubts about my progress, but this loss sent me into wails of despair. And here’s the important part for parents: My mom hadn’t known about my project. All she saw was a little heap of wood. She didn’t realize my creative dreams had just gone up in smoke and she told me to stop making such a fuss. I was heartbroken. What’s the lesson here? Ellen Galinsky’s book, Mind in the Making, talks about encouraging children to take on challenges. It’s an essential life skill. She says, “Life is full of stresses and challenges. Children who are willing to take on challenges instead of avoiding them or simply coping with them do better in school and life.” She encourages parents to support their children when they want to build a lemonade stand, build a fort on the back forty, or run in a 5K race to raise money for a good cause. Why? Because whenever a child is willing to step out and try something, our role as parents is to cheer them on. Such projects build confidence, independence and coping skills for future life challenges. Children don’t always have the words to express the reasons they want to try something big. They just know the dream is there and they want to give it a go. Galinsky also talks about the role stress plays in the lives of both children and adults in our fast-paced daily lives. As adults we develop our own ways of relieving stress, and as parents we need to teach our children to do the same. When parents dwell on the things their children can do, their strengths, the children are empowered to experiment and
create with a stronger sense of well-being. A failed effort doesn’t threaten the child’s confidence. Children with too many “rules” are often worriers—they can’t risk a failure. Those who are encouraged to strike out on their own and try new things are more likely to explore, invent, and see new connections in the process. This child won’t fall apart if things go wrong. This child doesn’t base self-worth on being “right,” but is willing to see where the creative process leads. Another reason to encourage creative play is that the planning and the execution of any project is worthwhile in itself. Consider building a fort. The child has to first envision the completed project, gather materials, work and problem solve along the way, and finally either succeed, partially succeed or fail to complete the project. Sounds a lot like adult work, doesn’t it? And there is value in achieving any measure of success as the project proceeds. The child willing to take on a challenge is also willing to learn through each effort. In the famous children’s book The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner, the four siblings are always depicted as independent thinkers, able to take care of themselves. They work to earn money for food, they cooperate in all the tasks necessary to create a home away from home and they make important decisions based on sound reasoning. Kids love the prospect of that kind of freedom to succeed. As parents, allowing them to take on challenges is our gift to give. So next time your kids want to “build a fort” or embark on any other creative project, here are some ways to support their efforts.
speak encouraging words Whether the project seems doable or not, the effort will be worth your encouragement.
Any positive, encouraging words you offer will make a huge difference to your child’s willingness to try.
provide materials
Whether done indoors or out of doors, there are ways parents can encourage creative projects by merely allowing access to “stuff.” Are your children free to use art supplies, blankets, pillows, toys to build a structure? Are they released to use found objects, scrap wood, and simple tools to create their projects?
allow time and space to do the work without over-managing
While kids sometimes respond well to suggestions from adults, these creative projects should usually be done on their own. They have a plan in mind. Children are often satisfied with a finished product that looks nothing like the house or barn or space craft we might envision. Remember the pretending is a big part of the fun.
expect some messes
Yes, creative play can be messy. There may be rubble to clean up, household items to put away, spilled paints or marks on the floor. There may be a few scrapes and bruises in the midst of creative outdoor projects. As long as there are no major safety issues, the process is worth the cost.
praise the finished project, or the lessons learned along the way
My four little wheel-like pieces and the two by fours nailed together as the beginning of my floor didn’t look like much of anything. But they meant the world to me. All my dreams and creative efforts had been invested in them. I would have been thrilled to hear, “Wow, you
books on success and failure for children
Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty Free Throw: 0 by Jake Maddox The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires The OK Book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal Someday by Eileen Spinelli
for parents
Raising an Entrepreneur: 10 Rules for Nurturing Risk Takers, Problem Solvers and Change Makers by Margot Bishop
put a lot of work into that. Tell me about it.”
failure is an optionand not the end of the creative process
Yes, a failed project is a great learning opportunity. And kids need to learn the important lesson that nothing is gained without the willingness to make mistakes. This might be a great time to read a book about inventors or great thinkers and examine all the “failures” they had on the way to success. Hands-on creative play is worth its weight in gold. It is also hard to find in these days of computer games and screens. So keep your ears open for the creative ideas your children mention. And whatever you do, encourage their plans to take on a challenge.
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MAKE YOU
[ according to science ]
I
’m 11 years old and I’m sitting at a long table in the mess hall. The primitive building has cement flooring, a raised ceiling, and enough space to comfortably hold a few hundred kids and dozens of counselors. Just as I am about to ask one of my fellow campers to please pass the ketchup, the sound of conversation and silverware against plates is drowned by the sound of a song. It’s coming from a few tables over. Before the first verse is over, every conversation has ceased. Everyone in the room is singing about the wishy washy washer woman who washes her clothes; “She goes ‘Ooh-aah. Oooh-aah.” Over 25 years later, I still haven’t experienced anything else that instantly puts my brain in the same relaxed, joyful state I experienced while singing at camp. I can’t help but wonder why. Apparently, I’m not the only one wondering what’s behind this phenomenon. According to the experts, it’s not just something in the bug juice.
SINGING CHANGES YOUR MOOD – AND YOUR CELLS Science has actually proved that the act of singing is a natural mood elevator. A 2012 study published by Evolutionary Psychology found that in comparison to simply listening to music, the active performance of music elevated subjects’ endorphin levels, the “feel good” chemicals your body naturally produces.
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Similarly, a 2004 Journal of Behavioral Medicine study found that participants who sang in a choir demonstrated increases in positive mood based on self-reports and, according to saliva samples, higher levels of immune system function than those who simply listened to the choir music. A 2010 study from Music Performance Research also found choir participants self-reported high levels of mood elevation, stress reduction, and psychological well-being as a result of singing. Meanwhile, the benefits of singing are not just for the talented. They also extend to tone-deaf people like me. In fact, a 2002 paper published in Integrative Physiological and Behavioral Science suggests the less serious a singer you are, the more benefits singing can offer you. Researchers found that after a singing lesson, amateurs reported elevated levels of joy and elatedness, while professionals did not. That said, both the pros and the amateurs reported feeling more energetic and relaxed after a singing lesson. Additionally, both groups demonstrated significantly higher oxytocin levels after a singing lesson.
MORE IS MORE We know that singing in the shower or your car makes you feel like a rockstar, and we have the science to prove it. Science also shows us that we may be wired to feel even
By Pam Moore better when we sing in a group – and the bigger the group, the better. A 2016 study published in Evolution and Human Behavior asked participants to provide subjective reports on social bonding and had their pain threshold measurements (representative of their endorphin levels) taken before and after singing for 90 minutes. Subjects either sang in a large group (over 200 people) or a small group (ranging from 20 to 80 people). For both groups, feelings of social connectedness improved. Even more fascinating was that for those in the large group, the improvement was significantly steeper, despite the fact that many of the participants were strangers to one another. Researchers conclude that the group cohesion facilitated by singing is consistent with evolutionary theories highlighting the role of music in social bonding, “particularly in the context of creating larger cohesive groups than other primates are able to manage.” When you’re talking to someone who has never been to camp, it’s hard to explain the connected, joyous high you feel while singing “You’ve Got a Friend” over the sound of crickets, surrounded by fellow campers. They may look at you funny when you say it’s nothing short of a spiritual experience, but you can stand your ground, knowing there is plenty of science to back you up.
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community
SP Tlight WHY WE LOVE THE GET YOUR ART ON DART CAMPAIGN Art provides challenges for learners at all levels. Art education connects students with their own culture as well as with the wider world.
BEST IN SHOW SARAH THIGPEN 9th Grade Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts \ Dallas ISD
Sarah’s winning artwork themed “My Next Stop is _____” will be recognized as the best out of hundreds of entries! The artwork will be displayed on the side of a DART bus traveling across the agency’s 13-city service area through September; so make sure to look for it! Winner’s artwork will be displayed at the Dallas Museum of Art, Love Field Airport, the Courtyard Theater in Plano and on DART’s website, DART.org.
1ST PLACE ELEMENTARY K-2ND GRADE
1ST PLACE ELEMENTARY 3RD-5TH GRADE
Anjali Reddy \ 1st Grade Falak Art Studio, Coppell \ Walnut Grove Elementary School \ Carroll ISD
Diya Vemireddy \ 4th Grade McCoy Elementary Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD
1ST PLACE MIDDLE SCHOOL 6TH-8TH GRADE
1ST PLACE HIGH SCHOOL 9TH-12TH GRADE
Olivia Park \ 8th Grade The Hockaday School \ Private, Dallas Dallas Arts Studio, Dallas
Rebeca Treviño \ 11th Grade Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center Dallas ISD
Want to see more winners? Visit DART.org/artcontest
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The
MindaMusic School brings the Original Big Piano® to Texas TM
® in Texas
Open House
Saturday, April 20, 12-5pm
Dance to your Favorite Tunes on the Biggest Floor Piano in Texas! Limited space. Register early to save your spot. FREE!!
A Revolutionary Musical Instrument that Merges Music, Dance and Play
FIRST GROUP LESSON FREE! Birthday Parties • School Functions Corporate Events
Now Enrolling Music and Movement Group Lessons and Summer Camps
MindaMusic.com • 469-661-8116 • BigPiano@MindaMusicStore.com
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Calendar \ April 2019
MONDAY 1
EARTHX EXPO April 19
Featuring a wide range of earthfriendly activities for all to enjoy. www.earthx.org
The Art of the Brick 10am-5pm Discover your inner architect in the hands-on, interactive Lego brick gallery, with building challenges, games, and open play spaces. $7 for members; $10 plus general admission for non-members. Through August 18.Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St, Dallas www.perotmuseum.org Mommy and Me Mondays 10am-2pm Join us at the Dallas Arboretum in the Pecan Grove every Monday during Blooms Festival, for face painting, a petting zoo, and more! Free with paid admission. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org/visit/calendar# Frisco Fair 5-10pm Frisco Fresh Market is proud to announce the grand opening of the inaugural Frisco Fair, an 11-day family fun event with the best rides, foods and family entertainment. Admission into Frisco Fair will be free for all. Rides, games and food can be paid for using tickets that will be available for purchase on site. Through April 7. 9215 John W. Elliott Dr, Frisco www.friscofreshmarket.com
EXTREME RACING April 27
Watch and cheer as live camel, ostrich and zebra races return to Lone Star Park. The exotic animal races will be run on the main track between regularly scheduled Thoroughbred races. www.lonestarpark.com
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TUESDAY 2 Away from the White House – Presidential Retreats 9am-5pm Come explore this exhibit of four presidential retreats. Camp David in Frederick County, MD, Prairie Chapel Ranch in Crawford, TX, LBJ Ranch in Stonewall, TX, and Walker’s Point in Kennebunkport, ME – learn how U.S. presidents have used these
places for work, rejuvenation, and rest. $19 general admission; free for members. Through 10/7. George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas www. bushcenter.org
WEDNESDAY 3 Dallas Blooms—Life’s a Picnic 9am-5pm This spring festival favorite features an extraordinary, larger-than-life, picnic scene topiary comprised of a stunning 40-footby-40-foot picnic blanket, vase of flowers, and more. Go online to check out the full schedule of activities. Free with general admission: $15 adults; $10 kids ages 3–12. $3 for children’s garden. Through April 7. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org Bilingual Story Time 11:15-11:45am Come have fun in two languages! Children will listen to books and sing songs. For kids ages 3-5 years. Free tickets are available one week in advance on a first-come-first-serve basis. Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library, 101 E. Hunt St., McKinney www. mckinneytexas.org
THURSDAY 4 Cool Thursdays – King George 7:30-9:30pm Grab a nice spot on the Martin Rutchnick Lawn for a concert . Gates open at 6 p.m. The garden closes at the end of the concert. Picnic baskets with food and drinks are permitted. Tickets start at $29. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/ cool-thursdays-concert-series
Sci-Tech Discovery Center Preschool Science Time 1-2pm Join us each Thursday for a free drop-in Science Time, read fun science stories, sing and dance about the world around us, get hands on with robots, mix up something messy, or watch one of our exciting live stage shows. Spaces limited so register online today! Free with paid admission Sci-Tech Discovery Center, 8004 N. Dallas Pkwy., Frisco www. mindstretchingfun.org
FRIDAY 5 Deep Ellum Arts Festival 11am-11pm Friday and Saturday. Featuring 200 decorative and visual artists, 100 bands, singer/ songwriters, and more. Hours on Sunday, April 7: 11am–8pm. This is an ADULT-oriented visual and performing arts festival. Supervised children and teenagers are welcome during the day. Free. 29003400 Main Street, Deep Ellum www.deepellumartsfestival.com Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr. 5-6pm Head to Artisan Children’s Theater. This fast-paced musical teaches lessons with clever, catchy tunes.. Run time: 55 minutes..$11 adults; $7 children. Discounts for groups of 15 or more. Through April 27. 444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www.artisanct.com
SATURDAY 6 Scarborough Renaissance Festival Interactive fun for everyone! Festival of entertainment, artisans, food, magic and merriment. See the
website for ticket information and for the daily schedule of events. Advance discount tickets are available at srfestival.com. Through May 27. 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie www. srfestival.com Mamou Cajun Festival 10am-6pm Get ready to party hearty, creole-style, as the Annual Cajun Festival cooks up big fun at Traders Village for a another great weekend of fun and delicious Cajun food. The event will be held under the Big Red Patio next to the rides and family entertainment area. Live music, dancing, Cajun foods, and bodacious bargains guarantee there’ll be ‘Big Fun on the Bayou’. 2602 Mayfield Rd, Grand Prairie www.tradersvillage.com
SUNDAY 7 Tuck Everlasting 1:30-3pm What if you could live forever? What if you were asked to keep a shocking secret? Young Winnie Foster suddenly finds herself faced with these dilemmas when she ventures from her routine one single summer morning. What she encounters at the foot of a magnificent tree in the woods on her family’s land brings her face to face with monumental life choices. Tickets start at $23. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas www.tickets.dct.org
hour full of music, movement and fun stories every Tuesday. Free. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway Dallas www. klydewarrenpark.org
WEDNESDAY 10 Train Yard Winter Walking Tours 1-2pm Guided walking tours of the Museum of the American Railroad’s rolling stock site will be available each Wednesday through Friday at 1pm and Saturdays at 11am and 1pm. Site tours are entirely outdoors and involve walking and some climbing. Wear closed shoes. Tours will begin at the Frisco Discovery Center. $8 per adult and $4 per child for walking tour. Tours will continue through spring. 8004 N. Dallas Pkwy, Frisco www.museumoftheamericanrailroad.org
THURSDAY 11 Dallas International Film Festival The 2019 Dallas International Film Festival (DIFF). This year the festival is Celebrating the Past, Present and Future of Film. Most of the festival will take place at the Magnolia, in West Village. See the website for a complete schedule and locations. Individual tickets start at $12. Through April 18. 3699 McKinney Ave, Dallas www.dallasfilm.org
MONDAY 8
FRIDAY 12
Play & Learn 11am-12pm Playing is learning! Parent/Caregiver participation is required. Ages 18-36 months. Free. Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Pkwy, Plano www.plano.gov
Arts in Bloom 5-10pm During the event the streets of downtown McKinney come alive with fascinating sights and sounds as fine artists, dancers, performance artists,and more. There’s also a hands-on interactive area for children, the Kids Creation Station. See website for daily hours. Through April 14. 111 N Tennessee St, McKinney www.mckinneytexas. org/687/Arts-in-Bloom
Bowl and Bite Mondays at Pinstack 11am-12am Each Monday from 4pm until close as guests enjoy 1/2 price appetizers and other specials. Monday motivation at its best. Pinstack, 635 Central Expressway North, Allen www.pinstackbowl.com
TUESDAY 9 Music and Stories with Kids Works at Klyde Warren Park 11am-12pm Bring your little ones and join Miss Kimberly for an
Zorro the Musical 7:30-9pm This legendary story of good versus evil. Based on the novel by producer Isabel Allende. Zorro the Musical retells the dramatic tale of a romantic hero with spectacular sword-fighting and incredible magic ! Through May 11. Tickets from $14. 444 E Pipeline Rd, Hurst www. artisanct.com
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TIME OUT
SATURDAY 13 Stemless Wine Glass Help Create 10am-6pm. Registration required. Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery, 701 S. Main St, Ste 103, Grapevine, 817-251-1668 www.VetroArtGlass.com. See ad in this issue. Easter Egg Splash 9am-12pm It’s an Easter Egg Hunt in the Pool! A floating Easter egg hunt, pictures with the Easter Bunny and face painting. Sign your child up for an Easter egg hunt in the water! Hurry! Register online. Times vary by age and space is limited. It’s $10 per child. Apex Centre, 3003 Alma Rd., McKinney www. mckinneytexas.org Meadows Museum Family Day 10am-1pm Come to this free Family Day at the Meadows Museum in Dallas to explore paintings by Spanish painter Mariano Fortuny (1838–1874). Enjoy hands-on art activities for tots to teens, a museum-wide scavenger hunt, and healthy snacks. This program is part of Founders’ Day weekend activities across the SMU campus. Free. 5900 Bishop Blvd, Dallas www. meadowsmuseumdallas.org Easter Egg Hound Hunt 9-10am Owners and their pets will have great fun as dogs sniff out doggie treat-filled Easter eggs at Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve. Will your dog find one of the golden eggs and win a special prize? Dogs must be on non-retractable leashes (6-feet max) and under their owner’s control at all times and must have current tags. Max 2 dogs per person. Owners must be at least 16 years old. Preregistration is required for this event. Cost is $9 for Plano residents, $13 for non-residents. Register with Plano Recreation online using course #197371. 5901 Los Rios Blvd, Plano www.plano. gov/204/Parks-Recreation Eggcellent Family Adventure 9am-12pm Enjoy the Easter version of “trick-or-treating,” as kids can fill their Easter baskets by visiting tables hosted by local organizations and businesses for eggs, candy and goodies. Festivities include games, live entertainment, crafts, face paint, bounce house, pictures with the
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Easter Bunny, and the Eggcellent Egg Drop. Make sure to bring your biggest basket to collect all of the freebies given away throughout this free event. Free. Allen Civic Plaza, 305 Century Parkway, Allen www. allenspecialevents.org/149/Eggcellent-Family-Adventure Funny Bunny Festival 9:30-12:30pm Hop on over to Lone Star Toyota of Lewisville Railroad Park for an egg-cellent time at the Funny Bunny Festival.. Free. 1301 S Railroad St, Lewisville www.cityoflewisville.com/about-us/ city-departments/parks-recreation/ parks-and-recreation-special-events Food Truck Rally 2-6pm Kick off spring with Klyde Warren Park’s second annual food truck rally. Meet on the Ginsburg Family Great Lawn and enjoy an amazing array of culinary treats !. This daylong, family-friendly event will feature contests and activities, giant games on the lawn and great live music. Free. 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas www.klydewarrenpark.org Turtle Creek Arts Festival 10am-5pm 100 local and regional artists and crafters of all disciplines. At the historic park that’s just steps away from the Katy Trail. View artist demonstrations, enjoy local food trucks ,and more, including art activities, a children’s area. The festival is open to all ages and dogs are welcome. Also Sunday, 4/14, from 11am-5pm. Free. Reverchon Park, 3505 Maple Ave, Dallas www. turtlecreekartsfestival.com Arts District Block Party 6pm-12am The Block Party Series brings the crowds to the street for a free community extravaganza. The festivities include food truck fare, local brews, family-friendly games, pop-up and featured performances by local and national artists, photo booth, community mural, and much more! Free. Bishop Arts District, Oak Cliff. www.dallasartsdistrict.org
SUNDAY 14 Dallas Pizza Fest 12-9pm Get your fill of delicious pizza at the second annual Dallas Pizza Fest featuring more than 20 local and national pizza parlors.
There will be a pizza eating contest, celebrity pizza chefs, live music and entertainment, kids bounce land, and a wine and beer garden. Pre-sale tickets are $10 for adults ($7 for children) and include a slice of pizza. Deep Ellum, 3200 Commerce St, Dallas www.pizzafestdallas.com Texas Rangers 5k 7:30-10am Lace up for a family-friendly 1K or scenic 5K through Arlington’s entertainment district and finish on the field at Globe Life Park. Each participant will receive one upper reserved ticket voucher for Rangers 2019 regular season home game. $30 for 1K; $40 for 5K. Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington www.mlb.com Geocache Easter Egg Hunt 1-2:30pm Experience one of the fastest growing activities in the world while hunting for Easter eggs. Geocaching is a real-world treasure hunt with all kinds of new prizes and adventures behind every turn. Sign up your kids ages 7–13 for an eggcellent time. See website for more information. $10. Bethany Lakes Park, 745 South Allen Heights Drive, Allen www.cityofallen.org
MONDAY 15 Dallas Farmers Market 11am-7pm. Open daily. 920 S Harwood, Dallas www.dallasfarmersmarket.org
TUESDAY 16 Marine Military Academy Presentation 7pm. Come and learn more about our school and camp for boys ages 11-18 in Harlingen, TX. Event is at The Westin Dallas Park Central, 12720 Merit Dr 972-385-3000. MMA-TX.org 956-423-6006. See ad in this issue. Imagination Playground at Klyde Warren Park 10am-12pm Bring the kids to Klyde Warren Park. Klyde Warren Park, Ginsburg Family Great Lawn, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas www.klydewarrenpark.org Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 9-11:30am Come join the Easter Bunny for breakfast and pictures.
Crafts and story time with our furry friend. Breakfast and Tiny Tots are included in the $10 fee for children. Breakfast for parents is an additional $6. Register online. Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 East Bethany Drive, Allen www.cityofallen.org
WEDNESDAY 17 Marine Military Academy Presentation 7pm. Come and learn more about our school and camp for boys ages 11-18 in Harlingen, TX. Event is at Dallas/Plano Marriott @ Legacy Town Center, 7121 Bishop Rd 972473-6444. MMA-TX.org 956423-6006. See ad in this issue. Garland Annual Egg Hunt 6-7:30pm. Activities include bounce houses, face painting, selfies with the Easter Bunny, and snacks for sale. No registration required. Egg hunts separated by age group. Carter Softball Complex (Audubon Park), 550 W Oates Rd, Garland www.garlandtx.gov
THURSDAY 18 Marine Military Academy Presentation 7pm. Come and learn more about our school and camp for boys ages 11-18 in Harlingen, TX. Event is at Dallas/Fort Worth Marriott Solana, 1301 Solana Blvd, Bldg 3 817-4305000. MMA-TX.org 956-4236006. See ad in this issue. Easter Weekend at St. Andrew United Methodist Church 7pm. Maundy Thursday service. Apr 19, 7pm Good Friday service. Apr 20, 5:30pm Traditional Service. Apr 21, 7am Sunrise Service, 8am, 9am & 10am Traditional Services. 9:30am, 11:10am & 12:10pm, Contemporary Services. 5801 W. Plano Pkwy, Plano 972-380-8001, standrewumc.org. See ad in this issue. Cool Thursdays – Asleep at the Wheel 7:30-9:30pm Tickets start at $29. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum. org/events-activities/cool-thursdays-concert-series
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TIME OUT
FRIDAY 19 EarthX Expo 10am-6pm Features interactive scavenger hunts, an Outdoor Adventure Zone including scuba diving and tree climbing, film, and much more! General admission: Pre-register online to receive free admission. $5 at the gate or after March 31. Through April 28. Fair Park, 3921 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Dallas www.earthx.org Easter Weekend at the Dallas Arboretum 9am-5pm Easter weekend is full of Eggstraordinary egg-citement. Come to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden for a weekend full of Egg-themed programs! Stop by the Plant Lab for a special Eggsquisite Egg dying Egg-sperience using plant-based dyes,every hour on the hour from 11am-3pm.Reserve lab seat online!! For ages 5 years and up. Through Sunday, April 21. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www.dallasarboretum.org/blooms
SATURDAY 20 Victorian Eggstravaganza and Spring Festival 10am – 2pm. Delight in the joys of spring on the Blackland Prairie with wagon rides, tours and more! Egg hunts are at 10:30, 11, 11:30, 12:30, 1 and 1:30. Arrive 30 minutes early to register. Admission $5; Egg Hunt $3. The Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th Street, Plano 972-881-0140 www.heritagefarmstead.org. See ad in this issue. Big Piano Open House 12-5pm. MindaMusic brings the Big Piano to Dallas! Dance to your favorite tunes on the Biggest Floor Piano in Texas. Come see what all the hub-ub is about and enroll in a fun group music dance class. Register to save your spot. Free! MindaMusic School & Store, 1101 Stonewall St., Ste 602, Garland. 469-661-8116. See ad in this issue.
Offer expires 12/31/19
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Egg-travaganza Help Create 10am-6pm. Registration required. Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery, 701 S. Main St, Ste 103, Grapevine, 817-251-1668 www.VetroArtGlass.com. See ad in this issue.
Dallas Children’s Theater Activities at Klyde Warren Park 10:30-11:30am. Dallas Children’s Theater will lead activities in the Children’s Park - meet at the learning tree! Klyde Warren Park. Free. 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas www.klydewarrenpark.org CityLine Live 6-9pm CityLine Live music series! Every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. during April and May. Live music from local artists. BYOB, dog-friendly, and kid-friendly. The series will take place in CityLine Plaza, next to the Aloft Hotel and Good Union Urban BBQ. See website for full lineup. Free. CityLine, 1230 State St., Richardson www. citylinedfw.com Under the Sea Easter Adventure 10am-12pm Egg hunters collect as many eggs as possible from the leisure pool at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium. Easter Bunny photos and treats. Register by age group, come 15 minutes early. Swim attire is required, and ages 6 and under must have a parent in the water. $10. 110 Rivercrest Blvd, Allen www. cityofallen.org
SUNDAY 21 Easter Bunny Trains 2:20pm and 4:20pm Hop aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for a family-friendly train excursion with an appearance by the Easter Bunny and candy for the kids. Excursions depart from Grapevine at the Cotton Belt Depot. The ride is about one hour. Passengers do not de-board the train – it will reverse direction and return to the Grapevine station. Admission is $14 for all ages. 707 S Main St, Grapevine www.grapevinetexasusa.com
MONDAY 22 Earth Fest: An Earth and Arbor Day Celebration 5-7:30pm Get tips on how to live a Green Life, visit with environmentally conscious vendors and enjoy performances by community arts groups as the City of Cedar Hill celebrates Earth Day and Arbor Day. Free. Cedar Hill Government Center, 285 Uptown Blvd., Cedar Hill www.cedarhilltx.com
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TIME OUT Birthdays
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
TUESDAY 23
FRIDAY 26
MONDAY 29
Crayola Experience 10am-8pm Come experience 22 hands-on attractions inspired by Crayola products and their technologies. Visitors can name and wrap their own Crayola crayon, star in a coloring page, create melted wax spin-art, and learn how crayons are made in a live factory show. General admission is $20.99 at the door or $18.99 online. Annual passes are $30.99. Kids under three are free. Crayola Experience at the Shops of Willowbend Mall, 6121 W Park Blvd Suite A100, Plano www.crayolaexperience.com/plano
Let Me Be Myself: The Life Story of Anne Frank 1-3pm Let Me Be Myself tells the story of Anne Frank in a modern way, addressing current day issues of identity, exclusion, and discrimination. Free with admission. Through August 2019. Dallas Holocaust Museum, 211 N Record St #100, Dallas www.dallasholocaustmuseum. org/news/recent/let-me-be-myselfthe-life-story-of-anne-frank
Mommy and Me Mondays 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
WEDNESDAY 24 Peter \ 5 March 15
Demi \ 9 April 1
Joe \ 5 April 2
Sensory Friendly Movie Night Carrollton 5:30-7:30pm Let’s turn the lights up and the sound down while we move, groove and sing along with our favorite movies! All ages welcome. Open to the public. Carrollton Senior Center, 1720 Keller Springs Rd, Carrolllton TX. Free. www. cityofcarrollton.com Shake, Rattle, and Read 6:30-7pm Music and movement to get kids wiggling and learning! Get your free ticket at the 2nd floor Ask Us desk on the day of the story time. Space is limited. Caregivers attend story time with children. All story times are designed to be developmentally appropriate for posted ages. Frisco public library, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco www. friscolibrary.com Bilingual Story Time 11:15-11:45am Come have fun in two languages! Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library, 101 E. Hunt St., McKinney www.mckinneytexas.org
Kaileah \ 8 April 6
SUBMIT
Upload your Birthday Kids picture @ suburbanparent.com Submit by 10th of the month prior to their birthday.
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THURSDAY 25 Cool Thursdays – The Molly Ringwalds 7:30-9:30pm Grab a nice spot on the Martin Rutchnick Lawn for a concert. Gates open at 6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be moved inside to Rosine Hall. Tickets start at $29. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas www. dallasarboretum.org
SATURDAY 27 Mother’s Day Bowl Help Create 10am-6pm. Registration required. Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery, 701 S. Main St, Ste 103, Grapevine, 817-251-1668 www.VetroArtGlass.com. See ad in this issue. White Rock Home Tour 12-5pm Get your tickets for the fourth annual White Rock Home Tour. Tickets are $15 in advance/$20 weekend of tour (children 12 and under are free). Also Sunday, 4/28. www.whiterockhometour.com Plano Artfest 11am-9pm Plano Artfest. A free community event.. Live music, contemporary art installations, performances from local arts groups, a makers market of craftsman and artisans, family chalk art, a kids zone with bounce houses and more. Free. 1037 E 15th St, Plano www. planoartfest.com
SUNDAY 28 The 7th Annual Dallas Food Truck Palooza & Music Festival 11am-6pm Sample eats and treats from up to 15 North Texas premier food trucks, while you enjoy live music by local artists. Children have the Kids Zone with bounce houses, face painting, balloon creations and more, all included in price of admission. Wine and beer will be available for purchase. No pets allowed. $6 admission (free for children 3 and younger). There will be a multi-winner raffle with exciting prizes and so much more! Tickets start at $6. Temple Shalom, 6930 Alpha Rd, Dallas www. dallasfoodtruckpalooza.com
Bowl and Bite Mondays at Pinstack 11am-12am Come to Pinstack each Monday from 4pm until close as guests enjoy 1/2 price appetizers and other specials. Pinstack, 635 Central Expressway North, Allen www.pinstackbowl.com
TUESDAY 30 The Art of the Brick 10am-5pm Discover your inner architect in the hands-on, interactive Lego brick gallery, with building challenges, games, and open play spaces. $7 for members; $10 plus general admission for non-members. Through August 18.Perot Museum, 2201 N Field St, Dallas www.perotmuseum.org
SAVE THE DATE MAY 2 The Spring Beauty Event 5-8pm. Join the Regional Plastic Surgery Center for the ultimate beauty event. Specials, discounts and raffles throughout the night. Noah’s Event Venue, 2251 Greenville Ave, Richardson. Details and registration at SpringBeautyEvent. com. Main website Create-Beauty. com. See ad in this issue.
MAY 5 Mother’s Day Bowl and Flower Help Create 10am-1pm for Bowl. 2-5pm for Flower. Registration required. Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery, 701 S. Main St, Ste 103, Grapevine, 817-251-1668 www.VetroArtGlass.com. See ad in this issue
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Your child learns to independently swim, surface on his back to breathe and return to his stomach to exit the pool. • Results in weeks, not years • Gentle approach • Ages 6 months to 6 years
Be ready to swim by Memorial Day. Take indoor swim lessons with us NOW at Carpenter Rec Center in Plano. Maintenance lessons available for graduates.
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FUN STUFF Be creative
GROW YOUR OWN GRASS
QUESTION Of course we are happy for Spring. But then again, there are the creepy crawlies that come out to play. So we asked kids...
WHICH BUG DO YOU LOVE THE MOST? • Ants. They work hard, and all the other bugs are like, “How come you guys are always working?” — Clay, age 6 • Hmmm. Mostly I like birds and butterflies. Not bugs. Try asking my brother! — Tanya, age 8 • June Bugs. They seem like they are kind of nice. Like, they don’t bug anyone. — Andy, age 6 • Bumblebees. I am not afraid of them. People think they will sting you, but they are way too busy, busy, to worry about you. — Sienna, age 7 • Worms. I like worms, but they don’t have faces, so that’s kind of weird. — Angel, age 7 • No Bites! I like bugs that don’t bite. — Timothy, age 6
Easter basket grass that is! We came across a fun project for Easter Baskets! Fill some Easter baskets with dirt and quick growing grass seed. Start at the beginning of the month and by Easter you’ll have baskets full of beautiful Easter grass. No more fake stuff; watching wheatgrass grow in a sunny spot will amaze your kids. And you too! You can find potting soil, quick grass seeds and plastic plant saucers in the gardening department of most stores. We found it on Pinterest! Learn more there.
GOTTA LOVE ‘EM One of my kindergarten students kept introducing herself this way: “Hi, I’m Zach’s sister.” I told her that her new friends needed to know her name. Then the schools director came in the classroom, recognized her and said “Aren’t you Zach’s sister?” And she replied, “NO, I’m me!”
APRIL = SPRINGTIME G Q I B S U E G G H U N T E K
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P B U T T E R F L I E S G A W
P Q V G A R D E N I N G B S B
K R O P Y E A D T N D S A T R
K S A I H O L Y W E E K C E U
I W D Y P E I M C H I J N R N
E A S T E R M O R N I N G B C
B N C F Z R R B N A N S R A H
E A Q A W A S U C V F K K S V
G O K M T T M O L E C E F K B
A P R I L S H O W E R S M E E
APRIL 2019 Let our advertisers know you found them in Suburban Parent
L Y O L N H E H S Z Y V I T Z
R N X Y R G A D A I S I E S F
S P R I N G T I M E J L G J M
n APRILSHOWERS n BAKING
p n BRUNCH n BUTTERFLIES n DAISIES n EASTERBASKETS n EASTERMORNING n EGGDECORATIONS n EGGHUNT n FAMILY n GARDENING n HOLYWEEK n PRAYERS n SPRINGTIME
WHOLESOME ENDING Yummy
WHAT'S FOR LUNCH? IT’S SPRING AND WE'RE THINKING ISRAELI SALAD
photo: givemesomeoven.com
Yeah, get your Mediterranean mood on with a fresh salad, and don’t forget to include a side of pita and hummus – maybe even some falafel. There are tons of recipes out there, but know the basics for this simple chopped salad are: cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, fresh herbs (think parsley and mint), lemon juice, and of course, olive oil (it’s Mediterranean!). Optional: include some crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts and chickpeas.
LET THERE BE FRUIT
The Fruits of the Holy Spirit is a biblical term that sums up the attributes of a person or community. There are 12: Charity, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Generosity, Gentleness, Faith, Modesty, Self-Control, and Chastity.
RIGHT ON TIME You may want to consider meal times for a child with ASD. Creating a routine of serving meals at the same time every day may be helpful and less stressful for your child (and you). Let him/her know what time it is when you prepare the meal. If you are concerned about your child’s nutrition, consider a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. They can answer your questions and provide guidance for making sure your child is eating well.
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THANK YOUR GUSTATORY That’s science lingo for taste RECEPTOR buds! Our taste buds perceive four basic tastes: sweet, salty, CELLS sour, and bitter. One of their functions is to keep your body from unsafe food chemicals. There are tiny taste hairs that check out food chemicals in your saliva. When these taste hairs are stimulated, they send nerve impulses to your brain. So if you ate poisonous or rotten food, you would most likely spit them out immediately – that way you stop them from entering your stomach.