houston
family j ul y 2 0 15 / f r e e
proudly serving parents for over 26 years
14. college campus tours 30.
craig biggio talks baseball and family with hfm
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texas field trips with kids
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education directory
contents
july twenty-fifteen
on the cover Lacie is 19 years old and just completed her freshman year at Lamar, where she is pursuing a degree in hospitality. She hopes to one day become an event planner. For now, she enjoys her part time job at a hip and funky fashion boutique in Houston.
10 fe ature s 14
HOW TO ACE YOUR CAMPUS TOUR What students should look for on a campus visit reprinted from gocollege.com
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HOW NOT TO RUIN YOUR HOME SCHOOL Seven ways to make your home school experience a success by Jill Craft
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TEXAS FIELD TRIPS Texas abounds with field trip opportunities, especially in Houston and Dallas by Ann Zeiss
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Photographed for Houston Family Magazine by Yvette Michelle
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SOAKER STORMS Dealing with the Aftermath by Kimberly Davis Guerra
FAMILY FINANCE by Jim Chapman
departments 5
I AM HOUSTON Craig Biggio, powered by humility, loyalty and family by Sara G. Stephens
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
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FAMILY FYI Facts and tidbits you need to know
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FAMILY FINDS Must haves for the whole family
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TALK TO THE DOC Water borne illnesses by Dr. Flor Munoz
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FAMILY TABLE Houston panaderias by the editors of My Table
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BOOK BITES Recommendations from Blue Willow on books your kids will want to gobble up
on the go 38 JULY ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
real l i fe g ui d e 54
HE SAID, SHE SAID Has video killed the family star? by Sam and Pam Middleton
resources 25 EDUCATION DIRECTORY
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FAMILY MARKETPLACE
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
publisher’snote Independence may not be all that it is cracked up to be... I recently spent time in New York with two of my oldest friends from childhood. One I met freshmen year in high school, the other I met in Kindergarten! While we have all lived in various parts of the world, we have always remained very close friends through the years. We are talking pre-Facebook even, when you actually had to pick up the phone or a pen to write a letter to stay in touch! While we were visiting, I had time to reflect upon what significance these two childhood friends have had on my life. We have helped each other grow, deal with love & loss, marriages, children and careers. The list goes on & on. These women are my sisters and mean more to me than they will ever truly know. And now, we have the pleasure of seeing our children become friends even though they only see each other infrequently. I think it is because our bond is so great, the children have to pick up on it. This gave me pause to think “Is independence all that it is cracked up to be?” Maybe I am not an independent as I once thought! It is the connections to family & friends, I have discovered, that I find strength in when times are tough. And while I pride myself on being the kind of person that could get air dropped in a third world country and build a highway to drive out on, I would need help to make it happen. I can’t do it all myself. And quite frankly, who would want to? I remember a quote I read in my 20’s that has stuck with me over the years. “How can you soar with eagles if you surround yourself with turkeys?” Surround yourself with the kind of people that possess the qualities that you have or would like to have. Make sure your children understand this lesson early in life as it will serve them well. The friends they make today may well be the ones by their side as they grow and become parents one day. Hope you & yours have a great 4th of July!
houston
family
PUBLISHER Kimberly Davis Guerra
ART DIRECTOR Patricia M. Young
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dana Donovan
PRODUCTION Gayle Wheeler-LeSueur, Graphic Designer
MANAGING EDITOR Sara G. Stephens CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS Jim Chapman, Jill Craft Dr. Flor Munoz, My Table Magazine Ann Zeiss ADVERTISING SALES Tish Petty , Karen Craft Beverly Davis
PRINTING RR Donnelley Contacts Us: 5131 Braesvalley, Houston, TX 77096 (P) 713.266.1885 (F) 713.266.1915 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Houston Family is published monthly by Red Head Publishing, LLC. Houston Family is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only Houston Family authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all submitted material. We cannot be responsible for the return of any submitted material. Houston Family is ©2015 by Red Head Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express permission is prohibited.
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july 2015 . houston family magazine . 5
familyfyi news, events and entertainment
it’s fun to help out the ymca
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see a funny play about racism Selected from submissions from around the world, My BFF, the Dragon, by Ryan Cavanagh, will be the final production of Express Children’s Theatre 24th season. “My BFF, the Dragon stood out as a profound and entertaining allegory about racism and friendship as experienced by two kids from different species. It’s really clever and laugh-out-loud funny, too,” said Express Theatre’s Executive Director, Tim Fried-Fiori. My BFF, the Dragon is running at Express Children’s Theatre on Saturdays through July 25, 2014 (No shows July 4 and July 11) Tickets are $10. It can also be seen at Miller Outdoor Theatre on July 23, 2105 (admission is free).
evelyn’s park needs volunteers
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velyn’s Park Conservancy is committed to designing, developing and transforming the 5-acre historic former Teas Nursery site into a park for the citizens of Bellaire and surrounding communities. If you are interested in volunteer-
ing, send an email to peta@ evelynspark.org. Let them know how you want to help (committee seats, events/parties, outreach, or whatever other area you have in mind). Follow the Conservancy at facebook.com/ Evelyn’sParkConservancy.
YMCA can use your help in the busy month of July. For starters, YMCA Operation Backpack kicks off on July 17. The event is a school supply drive to provide kids in our community with the necessary tools to begin a successful school year. You can change a life by donating a backpack filled with supplies. For more information visit
ymcaoperation backpack.org. On July 25, the YMCA Kids Triathlon, “presented by The Woodlands Kiwanis Club,” will feature a Swim, Bike and Run for kids, sanctioned by USA Triathlon. Kids ages 7-12 can participate in the event, which begins at 7:30 am at Branch Crossing YMCA, 8100 Ashlane Way, The Woodlands. For more information visit ymcahouston. org/south-montgomery-county
catch the release of sea turtle hatchlings
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re you planning a visit to South Padre Island this summer? Don’t miss out on the sea turtle hatchings, one of Texas’ great environmental wonders! Public releases are held when hatchlings frenzy in the early hours of the morning. Estimated public hatchling releases are held at 6:30 a.m. at County Beach Access 3 (approximately ½ mile north of Sea Turtle, Inc). The 2014 Hatchling release estimations for all 26 nests found this season range from June 14 to July 11. Check the website http://www.seaturtleinc.org/ and Facebook page for current updates during your next island visit.
stop crying over wet phones
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It’s summertime, meaning the chances of our precious cell phones’ getting wet (think pool, think ocean) just increased. You can either shell
6 . houston family magazine . july 2015
out bucks for a new phone--or you could head to your nearest DryBox Rescue Station, now stationed in select H.E.B. grocery stores as well as select GameStop
locations throughout Texas. Drybox Rescue removes all moisture from a wet phone in just 30 minutes. There are no Houston locations listed on the website to date,
but maybe if enough of us talk to our local HEB and GameStop managers, that will change! See a current list of locations at http:// dryboxrescue.com. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
familyfinds on the web. HoustonFamilyMagazine.com the good stuff
very cool gizmos and tools to keep your family learning over the summer FabTablets make tablet covers fun with plush, fabric outer covers and adjustable positioning settings, so the screens can be easily viewed from various angles. They fit most iPads and tablets with 7 – 10 inch screens. $29.99. www.pillowpets.com.
online exclusives Out-of-this-World Vacations Best Pools in Houston Places to Stay Cool This Summer Smoothie King and the Queen of Quintuplets Eye Health and Sunglass Safety How to Motivate Children to Complete Their Responsibilities Around the Home
TEEN TAKE: My Country 8 . houston family magazine . july 2015
Babbel, an app for online learning, makes it easy for independent learners to expand their horizons by learning new languages, from home or on the go, with a smartphone or tablet. From $6.95/month. www.babbel.com
The Whole-Brain Child Workbook presents 12 “whole-brain” strategies, with dozens of practical agespecific exercises and activities for parents and educators to address challenges such as sibling conflict, homework or screen time battles, tantrums, sulking, and more. $24.99. www.pesipublishing.com Smithsonian Sticker Creations,Smithsonian Everything You Need to Know Fact Cards, Smithsonian Young Explorers: 50 States, and Smithsonian Discover: Earth are a perfect continuation of the STEM curriculum throughout the summer months. From $15.95. www.silverdolphinbooks.com www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
kitchenfinds with kids in mind because the family that cooks together stays together.
Stovetop Cooking T-fal Excite Non-Stick 14-Piece Cookware Set’sThermospotTM technology indicates when the pan is perfectly preheated, so kids can keep watch and inform their Chef parents when the pans are ready for use! $69.99. t-falusa.com.
Grilling T-fal Black OptiGrill indoor grill lets kids monitor the cooking level indicator, which displays the level of cooking from rare to well-done. $179.99 http://optigrill.t-falusa.com/
Preparing Eggs: The KRUPS Egg Cooker lets kids pile eggs into the slots and let Mom and Dad know when they are done when the machine beeps. $29.99. krupsusa.com.
Baking: COOKINA Cuisine Reusable Cooking Sheet lets kids place the sheet on a baking tray without using any oil, and place cookies, rolls and more on top for non-stick oven baking. $12.99. www.cookina.co/ www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
july 2015 . houston family magazine . 9
talktothedoc health and wellness what parents need to know about recreational water illnesses dr. flor munoz, an infectious diseases specialist at texas children’s hospital be contaminated with a number of bacteria and parasites coming from the soil, animals and humans. Here are some effective healthy swimming tips for parents so everyone can remain safe and healthy this summer: • Keep your children out of the water if they have been vomiting or having diarrhea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying out of the pool for two weeks after resolution of diarrhea since some organisms continue to be shed. • Shower before getting in the water • Teach your children to not go to the bathroom in the pool
swimming is a great exercise and fun family activity, but to make it a safe one, parents need to be aware of recreational water illnesses.
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wimming and summer go hand in hand, and a lot of families will start packing up and heading to the pool, lake or beach. And that’s where recreational water illnesses are born and bred. Recreational water illnesses can be caused by germs spread through contaminated water that can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs, water parks, water play areas, lakes, rivers or oceans. A wide variety of infections can cause recreational water illnesses. The most common are parasites called giardia and cryptosporidium, and certain enteric bacteria, such as E. coli,
pseudomonas and salmonella. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, poor appetite and sometimes fever. Young children can be affected the most if they become dehydrated due to an acute gastroenteritis. Skin infections may also occur after contact with contaminated water. Most recreational water illnesses in pools can be prevented with the use of chlorine, but parents should know chlorine doesn’t eliminate all the germs. Some organisms can live in the pool for a few days before the chlorine takes care of them, and some are capable of surviving even in the most well maintained pools. Lakes, ponds and rivers can
• Don’t swallow the water • Take your young kids out of the water once an hour for a bathroom break • Check your baby’s diapers and change them often if needed Following these tips can help keep everyone safe while participating in recreational water activities this summer so you can maximize the amount of fun you have with the family!
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familyfinance money matters wedding aisles and money trials by jim chapman, wells fargo institutional retirement & trust managing director harder than talks about religion and politics—before the wedding bells ring. Money Talks: Financial Conversation Starters for Newlyweds
Open and honest lines of communication can help couples build a solid financial footing early on in their marriage. Here are some considerations for broaching the money talk: • Did you marry a money geek or a finance flowerchild? Often partners’ money styles will fall into one of these two categories. Before the wedding bells ring, couples will want to identify which. The money geek might consider drafting a budget the couple can discuss at monthly ‘money meetings’ as means for controlling spending and identifying family goals.
now that you’ve walked down the aisle, reality sits in--and that includes realizing your new spouse’s money styles may be very different from your own.
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t’s July – one month after the traditional start of wedding season. By the time a couple walks down the aisle, chances are they’ve learned their partners’ preferences on everything from cake flavors and music to honeymoon destinations and kitchen decor. But how much do they really know about their partner’s money style? With financial issues frequently cited as a leading cause of divorce, it’s critical couples understand each other’s views on money and investing from the start. That means setting aside time in the planning process to have the money talk. Below are some ideas for having this difficult conversation about money—which are said to be
• Is debt a dirty little secret? Before the wedding, it’s important to know what debts each spouse is bringing to the marriage and what their partners’ credit ratings are. Having a clear view can help the couple decide which debts to combine, which to keep separate and the impact on the other spouses’ credit history. Similarly, taking stock of any joint debt, such as credit cards or mortgages opened as a couple, will help when it comes time to set a budget. • Do you share common financial priorities and longterm goals?
control expenses by identifying to common goals. Sitting down and listing monthly income and expenses is a good start to identifying shorter-term spending priorities, such as dinners out or travel, as well as longer-term saving and investment opportunities, such as buying a home or planning for a retirement at the beach.
moreinfo H ow do you feel about prenuptial agreements and your estate? No one wants to think about separation when starting out in married life. Yet it’s a good idea to get a sense of your feelings – and your partner’s – on prenuptial agreements and estate plans. In some cases, a “prenup” may actually boost each individual’s sense of independence while protecting the wealth each brings to the relationship. Similarly, it’s important to talk early about how couples want to provide for an orderly transfer of assets, considering the financial implications of life insurance and what would happen if a wage earner or work-at-home spouse were lost. Also now may be the time to update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, IRAs and 401(k) plans
Whether it’s setting up an annual budget or devising a long-term investment strategy, couples can determine where to www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
feature
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What students should look for on a Campus Visit
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ampus tours are an essential part of the college selection process. College catalogs and orientation packets can only give students a cursory look at what a college or university has to offer. And while a school may look perfect on paper, it may Walking Through a Guided Tour turn out not to be a When you schedule your college visit, make sure they offer good fit when you a guided tour of the campus. it may seem unusual, finally arrive on campus. While some college visits do not By visiting the college or include a comprehensive tour and facilities. university in person, you ofAs theyoucampus are guided around the take the time to get a will gain a better under- college, good look at the main buildings and other areas of the campus. standing of the school be afraid to ask questions and of what campus life Don’t of your guide concerning how the campus functions, and will really be like. what campus life is like for the student body. A campus tour also Your visit to the college gives you the chance to campus should include a trip through the admissions offices interact with current and financial aid departments, well as the major classroom students to see what they asbuildings and dormitories. will be a lot to take in have to say about the col- There on a short visit, but this will lege you are considering. give you an idea of how easy or it will be to navigate Here are some things difficult your way through the college grounds. At this point it is a to look for in your good policy to question your guide about the state of the college campus tours:
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july 2015 . houston family magazine . 15
campus tours campus library, the availability of internet service and the condition of any and all lab facilities you will be relying on when you take up residence. Photos & Virtual Tours of School Campus
Many colleges and universities offer virtual tours via the internet. While these can be helpful at the initial stages of your interest in a particular school, they can not capture the true atmosphere of a college campus as well as a personal tour. Be wary of virtual tours, and use them only as a way of narrowing down your college choices to the the few that you want to definitely consider.
this is where you will be living for the next 2 to 4 years Sitting In On a Classroom Session
Many campus tours offer visitors the opportunity to sit in on a college class. This is a good way for prospective students to get a feel for what the classroom atmosphere is like at a particular university. While you can’t judge an entire college’s reputation on the strength of one classroom visit, it can be a good indicator of the teaching style, and level of student class involvement, offered by the college. This will help you decide if the college suits your personality as well as your educational needs. After auditing the class, you will have a good opportunity to talk to some of the current students and question them about the school and about campus 16 . houston family magazine . july 2015
life. Most students will speak candidly about their experiences at the college, so be prepared with any specific questions you wish to ask. Keep in mind that the students you approach are between classes, so be sure to ask them if they have the time to chat and try to keep it brief. A Dorm Room Stay
Many colleges offer prospective students the opportunity to spend a night in one of their dorms as part of their campus visit. This can be a great chance to see first hand what living on campus will be like. You will be able to see what it will be like to share a dorm with other students, and will get a good feel for what living conditions are like on campus. Remember, if you choose to attend the college you are visiting, this is where you will be living for the next 2 to 4 years. While staying overnight in the dorms, be sure to ask questions of the other students, and make notes about what you like and dislike about the college. These notes will come in handy later when you are comparing the pros and cons of the colleges you have been considering. Schedule Question Time
While touring the college campus, take every opportunity to ask questions of the tour guide, faculty and current students. This will help you gather information on the rigors of class work, the study habits of the student body, what is expected of freshman students and what campus life is like in general. The more you know about the college you are considering, the easier it will be to decide if your personality and study habits make a good fit. The key to success in college, is to find the school that best meets your needs as both a student and an individual. Gather all the information you can, review it and compare it with other colleges you may be considering, and choose the school that you feel best suits your educational goals. Reprinted with permission from gocollege.com. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Acing Your Campus Tours
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et’s look at some tips to help you make the most of your campus visit, and to help you select a college in which you will flourish. Have a Meal Evaluate the dining hall, cafeteria or fast food restaurants on campus. Are the students sociable, or are they keeping to themselves? Are the students cheerful and upbeat, or do they seem stressed and unhappy? Remember, their experience will soon be your experience. Also consider whether or not the faculty take their meals with the students. When the professors and college staff share their meals with the students, it shows a good relationship between the pupils and their instructors. This is vital to a comfortable and successful learning environment. Don’t forget to sample the food. Money will be tight while you are in college, and most of your meals will be on campus. If the food, or the company, is unacceptable to you it is going to be a long four years indeed. Listen In While you’re walking the campus, or taking a break in the cafeteria, listen to what other students are saying. Are they discussing their classes and campus life? If so what are they saying about it? Is it positive or negative? Do the students on campus seem stressed out, or do they seem to be enjoying their course work and the college life? Observing students in unguarded
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moments will give you a truer feeling for what life on this campus will be like. Talk to the Faculty During most campus tours you will have the opportunity to speak with faculty members in the department you are planning to enter. Speaking with faculty members, admissions staff and financial aid advisers will allow you to ask any specific questions you have about the college in general, and campus life in particular. Chatting with your potential professors will also allow you to get a read on the faculty members with whom you will soon have the most interaction. You will be able to judge whether or not they are friendly, open and ready to answer a student’s questions. Talk to Students If you have the opportunity, approach some of the students on campus and ask them about the college. Don’t be shy. Remember, not so long ago they were touring campuses and facing the very same decisions as you. Ask some the students you meet on your campus tour what they think of the college in general. How do they feel about their classes? Are the professors and administration helpful and accessible? What are the dorms like, and how is the food on campus? These are things you will need to know when making your final choice of a college.
Reprinted with permission from gocollege.com. july 2015 . houston family magazine . 17
feature
seven ways i ruined my homeschool a wellintentioned mom’s trials and errors of homeschooling
THE 7 WAYS TO RUIN YOUR HOMESCHOOL
one
Demand Your Child Stay on Grade Level.
This was my biggest mistake in all my homeschool years. I felt that it was imperative that my children complete what the public school was teaching. It took me four years to get the grade level thing out of my silly mind. Once I made the decision to teach according to my son’s abilities, it was smooth sailing. He is now a senior and is right on track.So please don’t push your child when he isn’t ready. It will only result in tears and frustration.
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Believe all Children Learn the Same Way.
by jill craft
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nce upon a time there was this mommy who wanted to homeschool her children. She did extensive research and bought the top of the line curriculum before their first homeschool year started. She had confidence that the children would be overwhelmed with the gift of learning. Oh, you should have seen the adorable homeschool room and gadgets she thought would aid her in this magnificent homeschool adventure. She was heartbroken and wanted to give up after the first month. It wasn’t as FUN as she imagined. There were daily tears from her children and herself that drenched the pretty school room that she worked so hard on the summer before. Does this sound familiar? Yes, that was me ten years ago! It was only because my husband didn’t give up on me and cheered me on that I didn’t send my children on the yellow school bus the very next day. However, I only wished someone would have warned me against a few things that could have made a huge difference in our homeschool days. I was guilty of all these things.
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Since I am a frugal mother, I insisted on saving all the FUN curriculum for the next child. It worked for the first two children, so apparently it will work for child 3, right? Wrong! Just like children have different personalities, they have different learning styles. Finding out what learning style accommodates your child’s needs can make all the difference in the world.
three
Don’t Take Advantage of a Homeschool Support Group.
I can’t stress this enough. The first year we homeschooled we were not involved in any sort of homeschool support group. We only knew one other family that chose the homeschool path. I needed someone holding my hand that first year because I had so many questions. You might have dear friends who support you, but if they haven’t been in your homeschool mother’s shoes….they truly won’t understand.
four
Don’t Have a Homeschool Mission Statement. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Since I didn’t have a homeschool mission statement, it was easily for me to forget why we were initially homeschooling. Once I created a homeschool mission statement, I was able to revisit our mission and was easily encouraged to keep on the homeschool journey when things got tough. Trust me, you will have BAD DAYS!
five
Use Your Curriculum As a Bible.
Yes, I am a rule follower. I thought we had to do the entire curriculum in its entirety and according to the author’s suggestions. Once I gave up on the fact that our curriculum wasn’t going to dictate our days, we all became less stressed. There is no perfect curriculum, so pick and choose what works for your family. I had to remind myself at times that the curriculum was just an outline or a tool.
six
Don’t Believe Life skills is education.
Life skills today are forgotten in education. When I decided to teach character and life skills as part of our homeschool, I felt a lightbulb went off. Just because we weren’t all sitting down doing workbooks, didn’t mean they weren’t learning what they need to succeed. Teaching life skills daily is preparing them for adulthood.
seven Be Inflexible
Things happen. Children got sick. Cars broke down. I had a baby. Life happened and I needed to embrace the daily grind that got us off schedule. I had to realize that reading a historical fiction was ok, if we all were feeling under the weather. Use your homeschool planner loosely, and adjust when needed. Yes, you will survive! After the dedicated mommy chose to change her vision of what a perfect homeschool day was supposed to look like, Mommy and children all became happy again. There www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
were still those crazy, not-sogood days, but they were able to move forward and say, “Tomorrow is another blessed day!” Jill Craft publishes a weekly newsletter on Blessed Beyond a Doubt (www.blessedbeyondadoubt.com), where you can find daily resources and tips on homeschooling.
home school resources Support and Information • HomeSchool In Houston homeschoolinhouston.org • West Houston Home Educators www.whhe.org • Texas Home School Coalition www.thsc.org • Home School Communication Network www.houstonhome school.org • Home School Legal Defense Association www.hslda.org • National Home Education Research Institute www.nheri.org • Texas Home Educators www.texashome educators.com Houston Area Conferences and Bookfairs • THSC Convention and Family Conference (July/ August) – more info at www.thsc.org Houston Area Home School Stores • The Homeschool Store www.thehomeschool store.com • Home Education Partnership (HEP) Bookstore www.hepbookstore.com • Homeschool House thehomeschoolhouse.org
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feature
Texas abounds with field trip opportunities, especially in the Houston and Dallas metropolitan areas. BY ANN ZEISS
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www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Texas Field Trips with Kids
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omeschoolers living in Texas looking for field trip opportunities can choose from a rich history and many technology companies within driving distance. In addition to this general field trip list we recommend going to your local city webpage for more unique field trip lists of places to visit.
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july 2015 . houston family magazine . 21
field trips
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ravel back in time at Pioneer Farms premier living history museum... ASTRONOMY & SPACE McDonald Observatory Visitor’s Center
The Visitors Center offers daily tours of the research facilities and solar viewing programs as well as evening “Star Parties.” 3640 Dark Sky Drive, Fort Davis, TX 79734, (915) 426-3640. Space Center Houston
You will relive the past achievements of the space program and witness today’s history in the making. 1601 NASA Road One, Houston, TX 77058, (281) 244-2105. Discovery Centers
Children’s Museum of Houston Learn through hands-on exhibitions in the areas of science and technology, history and culture, health and human development, and the arts. 1500 Binz, Houston, TX 77004-7112, (713) 522-1138 The Discovery Science Place
Two exhibit halls where kids of all ages are free to move about and explore. 308 North Broadway, Tyler, TX 75702 , (903) 533-8012 Don Harrington Discovery Center
Bringing to kids the excitement of science to the Panhandle area, through permanent and traveling exhibits, planetarium shows, special events, educa22 . houston family magazine . july 2015
tional/outreach programs and workshops. 1200 Streit Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106, (806) 355-9548 Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Exhibits, iMax theater, planetarium, and educational programs. 2201 N Field St., Dallas, (214) 428-5555 Science Spectrum
Over 200 interactive exhibits, an OMNIMAX® Theatre, live animals, live demonstrations, a dedicated area for younger children, fun shops, and traveling exhibits. 2579 S. Loop 289, Suite 250 (street address), Lubbock, (806) 745-2525 Thinkery Children’s Museum Diverse and exciting educational programming with topics changing frequently. 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723, (512) 469-6200 Witte Museum
Exhibitions, programs, and collections will connect the past, the present, and future through a dynamic learning environment. Check out the student programs and workshops. 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209-6396 , (210) 357-1900 Woodlands Children’s Museum
Where the streets lead to fun and the sky’s the limit to what www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
you can learn! 4775 W Panther Creek Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77381 281465-0955 HEALTH & MEDICINE The Museum of Health and Medical Science
A voyage through a Texas-sized human body, the Pavilion includes giant models of human organs and dozens of hands-on exhibits and science stations. 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004-7126, (713) 942-7054 HISTORY The Alamo
Field trip information. Lesson plans. History. 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas 78205. (210) 225-1391
LBJ Library & Museum
The museum provides yearround public viewing of its permanent historical and cultural exhibits. Free admission. 2313 Red River St., Austin, (512) 721-0200. Old Red Museum
Learn about the history of Dallas county through a series of workshops designed especially for homeschool families. Children are encouraged to play with traditional toys and to try on garments from historical eras. 100 S Houston St., Dallas, TX. Sign up through group sales, Janel Khan: 214-757-1949. Pioneer Farms
A wonderful place to introduce students to the culture and history of Mesoamerica. 201 E Commerce St., San Antonio, TX 78205. Toll Free: 877-43-Aztec (877-432-9832).
Travel back in time at Central Texas’ premier living history museum, where your journey begins on our three historic farmsteads and in our unique history programs. 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr., Austin, (512) 837-1215.
French Legation Museum
Texas Capitol Visitor Center
The Aztec On The River
Guided tours are available Tuesday through Sunday, from 1:00-4:30 p.m. 802 San Marcos St., Austin, TX 78702. (512) 472-8180. Holocaust Museum Houston
Authentic film footage, artifacts, photographs and documents show life in pre-war Europe, the Nazi move toward the “Final Solution” and life after the Holocaust. 5401 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004. (713) 942-8000 Houston Museum-African American Culture
HMAAC is a museum for all people. While our focus is the African American experience, our story in Texas informs and includes not only people of color, but people of all colors. 4807 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004. (713) 526-1015 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
The Capitol Visitors Center is located at 112 East 11th Street (southeast corner of the Capitol grounds) in the restored 1856-57 General Land Office building. The Capitol Visitors Center encourages educators to bring students for guided tours of its exhibits. (512) 305-8400. INDUSTRY & TECHNOLOGY Factory Tours
Interactive site with recommended factory tours in Texas. NATURAL HISTORY Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Hundreds of programs aimed at engaging children and families in learning. 1600 Gendy St., Fort Worth, (817) 255-9300 Hamilton Pool Preserve
232 acres of protected natural habitat featuring a jade green july 2015 . houston family magazine . 23
field trips pool into which a 50-foot waterfall flows. Located about 30 miles west of Austin at 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd., Dripping Springs, TX 78620. Reservations for the guided nature tour can be made by calling (512) 264-2740. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
This is a natural science museum & wildlife sanctuary that offers homeschool classes. North of Dallas at 1 Nature Place, McKinney, Texas 75069. (972) 562-5566 ext. 269 Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
The first Monday of each month will be dedicated to home school students, ages 5 years and up. A newly created program will provide learning in an outdoor classroom (weather permitting), a guided nature walk and a handson activity. Cost is $20 per student, siblings in same family $15 each. Pre-registration is required. 8 student minimum. 20 student maximum. 4501 Woodway Drive, Houston, Texas 77024. (713) 681-8433. Houston Museum of Natural Science
Major discoveries made here daily. One Hermann Circle Dr., Houston, (713) 639-4629.
Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve
A 5,500 acre ranch that has been described as the largest habitat restoration project on private land in Texas. Educational and interpretive services. 2341 Blue Ridge Dr., Johnson City, TX 78636. (830) 868-2630. Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch
A non profit education exotic wildlife facility and zoo held to the highest standards of quality and health by the USDA. Has a huge, local homeschooling following. 11670 Massey Road, Pilot Point, TX 76258. (940) 686-4600. 24 . houston family magazine . july 2015
TDS Exotic Game Ranch & Pavilion
Visitors can tour the exotic game ranch complete with approximately 800 acres that is home to more than 1,600 animals from 30 different species. South of Austin. 11508 Carl Rd., Buda, TX 78610 (800) 375-8375. Vanishing Texas River Cruise
Dine on our traditional Mexican/American Fajita Buffet while viewing the awesome beauty of the Colorado River Canyon. Enjoy waterfalls, towering cliffs, abundant wildlife and the many scenic vistas along the river banks. 443 Waterway Ln., Burnet, TX 78611. (800) 474-8374. Westcave Preserve Cave
A variety of programs for children and adults with the goal of inspiring greater environmental conservation and awareness. Located in southwest Travis County, approximately 45 minutes from downtown Austin. 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd., Round Mountain, TX 78663. (830) 825-3442 Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve Founded in 1974 to protect 227 acres of pristine Texas Hill Country and to provide nature education programs. Loop 360 bridge over Lake Austin. 805 N Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin, TX 78746. 512-327-7622. Ann Zeiss a currently “retired,” homeschooling parent who publishes a2zhomeschooling. com. This article was reprinted with her permission. You can find updated links at her website. Ask Feel free to use the “Comment Field” if you have a review of a trip or wish to add another good one with kids. Also, if you are organizing a “Homeschool Day” you may promote it for free on Ann’s site’s “Events.” www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
camp directory 2012
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
E D U C AT I O N DIRECTORY
One of the most important things we will be faced with as a parent is making sure that our child receives a good education. With so many different options available today, it makes it very difficult to choose a school. By investing some of your time and researching the options, you can make the right decision for your child. This directory will help you start the process. Since it only provides a small amount of the information you need to make your selection, please call the school directly. Let them know that you found them through Houston Family Magazine.
The Branch School 1424 Sherwood Forest Street, Houston 77043 713-465-0288, www.thebranchschool.org
College Nannies and Tutors of Bellaire 3005 West Loop South, Suite #248 Houston, TX 77027, 713-393-7724, www.collegenanniesandtutors.com/bellairetx
College Nannies and Tutors of Katy 3522 S. Mason Rd., Suite 375 Katy, TX 77493, 281-398-6809, www.collegenanniesandtutors.com/katytx
Coram Deo Preparatory Academy 1225 West Grandparkway S., Katy, Texas 77449 832-607-1526, www.CoramDeoKaty.com
Cypress Christian School 11123 Cypress North, Houston Road Houston 77065 281-469-7745, CypressChristian.org
Kinkaid School 201 Kinkaid School Dr., Houston 77024 713-782-1640, www.kinkaid.org
Memorial Lutheran School 5800 Westheimer Rd, Houston 77057 713-782-4022 www.memoriallutheranschool.org
Our Savior Lutheran 5000 West Tidwell, Houston 77091 713-290-0850, www.oslschool.org
Nurturing environment, challenging academics. Middle School offers 21st century skills including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).
Bellaire has been Building Stronger Families® in Bellaire and surrounding communities since 2014. Whether your family needs the quality care that comes from one of our role model nannies or the one-on-one attention from one of our College Tutors, we are committed to helping you build a stronger family.
Katy Placement Center has been Building Stronger Families™ in Katy and surrounding communities since 2009. Whether your family needs the quality care that comes from one of our role model nannies or the one-on-one attention from one of our College Tutors, we are committed to helping you build a stronger family. The best of private schooling and homeschooling in one unique and proven model of education. Coram Deo is centered on God’s will, influenced by every parent, and focused on each student.
Prospective families are invited to visit our campus and gather information. The preview will begin in the Gym and include a general assembly and private tour of the campus.
Kinkaid’s mission is “to promote educational excellence, personal responsibility, and balanced growth; and thereby to help its students discover and develop their talents and achieve their best potentials.” The esteemed faculty and staff prepare students for success in academics, athletics, the arts and extra curricular opportunities.
Classical Christian education; Early Childhood through Middle school; excellent high school acceptances; outdoor education; summer program; premier music program; athletics, weekly chapel.
Established in 1946, Our Savior Lutheran School is located on 60 acres in Northwest Houston. OSL provides a traditional Christian and classical education by offering a rigorous academic and spiritual curriculum.
E D U C AT I O N D I R E C T O R Y The Parish School 11001 Hammerly Blvd., Houston 77043 281-467-4696, www.parishschool.org
Primrose Schools of Copperfield 15550 Ridge Park Drive Houston, Texas 77095 281-858-5600, www.PrimroseCopperfield.com
The Regis School of the Sacred Heart 7330 Westview Dr., Houston 77055 713-682-8383, www.theREGISschool.org
School of the Woods 1321 Wirt Road, Houston 77055 713-686-8811, www.schoolofthewoods.org
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School 7901 Bay Branch Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77382 281-296-0300, www.staopcs.org
St. Francis de Sales School 8100 Roos Rd, Houston 77036 713-774-4447, www.sfdsschool.org
26 . houston family magazine . july 2015
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N
Our Mission is to identify, educate and empower children who have language and learning differences. The Parish School is the only school in Houston public or private which offers a multi-age, language-based, developmental curriculum for children 18 months through fifth grade.
Primrose Schools is the nation’s leader in providing educational child care. We offer an environment that helps children have fun while nurturing Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy HeartsŽ.
The Regis School of the Sacred Heart is an independent school where boys become scholars and gentlemen. Call or visit our website to learn more.
School of the Woods offers accredited Montessori education and a unique learning environment through personalized curriculum. Educational programs encompass Early Childhood-Kindergarten, Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School and Woods High School college preparatory.
St. Anthony of Padua strives to create a warm, welcoming, Christ-centered environment. We provide a learner-centered curriculum (for PreK3-8th) that recognizes individual learning styles, maintains high academic standards and nurtures the development of a life-long love of learning.
Our mission is to educate students in a spirit of faith and academic excellence according to Roman Catholic principles. As part of a caring, disciplined community, our school, in partnership with parents, nurtures and challenges each student to their fullest potential.
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www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
july 2015 . houston family magazine . 27
E D U C AT I O N D I R E C T O R Y St. Mark Lutheran 1515 Hillendahl, Houston, TX 77055 713-468-2623, gostmark.org
St. Pius X High School 811 W. Donovan Street, Houston 77080 713-692-3581, stpiusx.org
Trinity Lutheran School Downtown 800 Houston Avenue, Houston, TX 713-229-2903, www.trinitydt.org
The Village School 13077 Westella Drive, Houston 77077 281-496-7900, www.thevillageschool.com
Western Academy 1511 Butlercrest, Houston 77080 713-461-7000, www.westernacademy.net
Yorkshire Academy 14120 Memorial, Houston 77079 281-531-6088, www.yorkshireacademy.com
28 . houston family magazine . july 2015
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N
St. Mark Lutheran School has integrated Christian principles and values with a demanding academic curriculum since 1949. We’d love to show you around. Schedule a personal tour today!
St. Pius X High School invites all sixth, seventh and eighth graders and parents/ guardians to visit/tour the School!
Trinity Lutheran School is an exemplary school in the heart of the city! We inspire and empower students with a Christ-centered education.
We are Village. Are you? Join us for our all school open house and meet our dynamic faculty, tour our facilities and learn about our exciting campus expansion. We are a day school and offer boarding for high school students.
Western Academy is a private, independent, liberal arts, lower and middle school for boys. Through personal attention and dedicated effort, teachers foster a genuine passion for learning.
Yorkshire Academy, a West Houston private school since 1984, offers a challenging and nurturing educational environment for students 18 months - 5th grade.
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july 2015 . houston family magazine . 29
iamhouston people who represent all that is good about houston
craig biggio, powered by humility, loyalty and family interviewed by sara g. stephens
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FM: After last year’s disappointment of not being elected [to the National Baseball Hall of Fame], you said in an interview, “...hopefully next year we’re able to give it to the fans and the city and the organization and my family. I just can’t wait because they deserve it.” Why do you think the city of Houston, the Astros, and your family each deserve this recognition? CB: Because it’s a monumental thing. There are only 215 players ever inducted, and for somebody who’s played his entire career in one city, that city becomes a part of you, and you become a part of that city. As far as family goes, you’re never home--that’s a sacrifice your family makes, and they deserve recognition for that sacrifice. You also have loyalties with the organization and with the fan base. I’ve been very fortunate to play with one organization and in one city. HFM: That fact pretty much underscores your deep sense of loyalty, doesn’t it? CB: Yeah, I’ve been very
30 . houston family magazine . july 2015
loyal,and I have no regrets in my career. I was a kid that came from New York. I came to Texas and fell in love with it. This is my home now. HFM: So what do you think it means to your family to have this finally happen for you? CB: I think they are extremely happy for me. When I speak for me, I speak for my whole family, because they understand how hard I worked in the big leagues and how much I loved the team, and how much I love the fans. It’s an exhilarating time for us. HFM: You’ve obviously had a huge athletic influence on your kids--your sons both played for St. Thomas baseball team and then for Notre Dame, and your daughter is a 3-star athlete. Do you think your character, too, has influenced your kids? If so, how? CB: My big message to my kids is to try to treat people the way you want to be treated. It doesn’t matter what your name is or how much money you have or don’t have. That’s the way we
‘‘ you gotta try to work as hard as you can, and sometimes that’s not good enough. you have to work harder.
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one of the best all around position players in astros history, craig will be inducted into the national baseball hall of fame on july 26— the first astros player to receive this honor. we asked craig about his journey, both as a ball player and as a father.
live our lives--with moral standards. My kids are wonderful human beings. As a parent, the ultimate compliment you can get, especially when your kids are away from you, is a compliment about your kids. HFM: You’ve been quoted as saying that your top two priorities in life are family and baseball, in that order. How did it feel to combine those to
passions while coaching your sons at St. Thomas? CB: I could have played a couple more years, but that wasn’t the most important thing to me--and it would have been for the wrong reasons. As a ballplayer, you have a professional job that you work in the summertime--that’s the same time your kids are off. So for me, I was never around. In all honesty, I had four years to be with my oldest son, and I was going to make the best of it. Once they leave and go to college, they go on with their own lives. I enjoyed the heck out of St. Thomas. I had the opportunity to teach baseball, not just to my kids, but to all the kids who played there. I think of all of them as my kids. I got a chance to better know and understand kids of this generation. I think www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
I’m a better father because of it. HFM: What makes baseball such a great family sporting event? CB: The big thing with baseball is that everyone has played it. Not everyone has played at the same level, but at some point in their lives, everyone has played baseball. It doesn’t matter how educated you are, everyone has an opinion about it, which makes it special. That’s why baseball is America’s passtime. Baseball has lots of levels. It’s a very complicated, difficult game. That’s why it’s such a big deal when guys are able to get to the big leagues or sign professionally, because that’s such a short list of people. We just had the June draft, and it’s wonderful to see guys get a chance at their big dream. HFM: What’s the best advice your parents ever gave you? CB: I’m not sure if there’s one particular thing, other than to live your life normally, and that’s what I try to teach my own kids. As I said earlier, you need to treat others the way you want to be treated. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about. HFM: What are the most important traits a person needs to succeed in baseball? CB: Humility is number one. You gotta have it because, sooner or later, the game is going to humble you it. It’s the reality of the game. You also need a strong work ethic. You gotta try to work as hard as you can, and sometimes that’s not good enough. You have to work harder. With baseball, there’s no guarantee for tomorrow and no second chances. HFM: The same lesson applies to life, does it not? CB: Absolutely. Live your life like you need to live it, like there’s no tomorrow. Work as hard as you need to, so that at the end of the day, you don’t have any regrets if you don’t get a second chance. Playing pro baseball has really driven that point home for me, because it’s a hard life. It’s an expensive life. People see the big leagues and think it’s a www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
great life. They don’t understand the sacrifice it took for you to get there--a lot of times it’s the people around your life that keep you there. It’s hard. Don’t get me wrong. It’s nice when you make it, but it’s hard to get there. And only one percent of the guys that play the game get into the Hall of Fame. Until this year, it was less than one percent, but this year with four inductees, it’s been pushed to one percent. It’s a hard business. There are so many things you have to deal with, besides your ability level. Sometimes people write a bad article, just because they feel like it, and you have to take it. You have to develop a thick skin. That’s why you have to be humble. It’s a humbling game. HFM: What makes the sport itself humbling? CB: I’ve had really good weeks and really bad weeks. It’s just part of the game. Think of it this way: Three out of ten times you’re successful in the batter’s box. That’s seven times you’re not. That’s stressful. But everyone pretty much has to just rise above it. You gotta keep playing. You have to remind yourself that if it were easy, everyone would do it. HFM: Humility aside, what has been your proudest moment as a pro ball player? CB: It’s hard to pick a proudest moment. I think 3,000 hits had to be a very magic time for the organization, my family, and for everyone involved. I think being the first Texas team to get to the World Series was significant, too. Growing up in New York, I mean, that’s what you fought for. The only downside is that we didn’t win. That is my only regret is that we didn’t win the World Series. But it wasn’t for lack of trying. It just wasn’t meant to be. Sometimes you can try your best, and you still don’t win, for whatever reason. You can’t get stuck trying to figure it out. It’ll make you crazy. It just wasn’t meant to be. HFM: What’s your proudest moment outside of baseball? CB: Having three children, obviously, is something I’m july 2015 . houston family magazine . 31
craig biggio very proud of. My wife and I are huge family people. We love our families. That’s what it’s all about--just living every day and watching every day as our kids turn into the people they’re going to be is a powerful thing. HFM: Celebrities these days, more than ever, can pay a great price for their fame. How do you manage to stay grounded and not caught up in the more negative aspects of being a celebrity? CB: You remember who you are and where you came from. That never changed me. When I went to work every day, I went as if it were my last day. In baseball, the next day is never guaranteed. Being grounded comes from your upbringing and from your parents. We lived in a nice, little house growing up. My parents were supportive of sports and of my sister and me. People are a reflection of their parents. Parents need to know that they are role models, whether they like it or not. I should add that fame, for me anyway, can also be a great thing. You have the opportunity to have a big impact on a lot of people. HFM: So what’s the next chapter or challenge you look forward to in life? CB: I still work with the Astros. I’m special assistant to the general manager. It covers a lot of areas. I love my role, being around the guys, watching them succeed. Watching a 5’ 6” baseman win the batting title. He’s a super man, and it makes me feel good to watch someone put on an Astros uniform and experience success. My one son has graduated, and I want to see what happens there. My other son is still playing with Notre Dame. And my daughter is a 3-star athlete. I’m eager to see where that leads her. HFM: What, in your opinion, makes Houston such a great place to raise a family? CB: I love Texas, other than heat in the summertime. Living in Texas lets you do anything you want to do--fishing, hunting, white water rafting. And there are great schools here. The opportunities are here and 32 . houston family magazine . july 2015
present themselves in a fun environment to raise your family. We love it here. The restaurants are fantastic, too. But the water’s different. HFM: The water’s different? CB: Yeah. I had a restaurant guy tell me about it. He tried to make a cannoli like they do in New York, but it just doesn’t taste the same. It’s because the water’s different. HFM. That makes sense, I guess. Craig, when Houstonians talk about you, they speak not only of our athletic skills and contributions to the game of baseball, but also of your giving back to the Houston community. Can you tell us about your work with the community and what it means to you? CB: There’s a lot of different things. We have always felt that if you are in a position to help and give back, you should. My wife has been involved in a women’s shelter for a long time. Our involvement with the Sunshine Kids started since I’ve been here, close to 30 years now. The Sunshine Kids are part of our family. We’ve had some tragedy, and we’ve had some amazing stories, and it’s personal to us. We love being a part of the lives of these kids who suffer with cancer. It’s been an unbelievable marriage between us. Most athletes, in general, they all give back in some way. I’m proud to be a small piece of that. HFM: What should Houston do with the Astrodome? CB: I love the Astrodome, and I’m like everyone else. What do you do with it? You can’t name something the 8th Wonder of the World and then do away with it. You have to try to preserve it. I spent 12 years in that building--a lot of time. A lot of great things happened in there. I would hate to see it go away. We just need to find a cost-effective way to keep it. There’s a lot of smart people in town who can figure it out. We just need to give them time. Sometimes you just need to sit on an idea for a while and wait for the right answer to come to you. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
familytable houston’s best eats do the (cinnamon) twist by the editors of my table, houston’s dining magazine
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tuffed with raisins … with a flakey, buttery shell … sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar... Is your mouth watering yet? Until recently, I’d been inside a panaderia – a Hispanic bakery – just once, and for only about two minutes. That first time I was so overwhelmed with the variety of breads, cookies, pastries and empanadas – referred to as pan dolce, or “sweet breads” in English – that I bolted, promising myself I’d come back. If you’ve never visited a panaderia, you’re in for a treat. Most panaderias in Houston are Mexican or Guatemalan, and each puts its own twist on classic Latin American pastries. While many have large windows into the kitchen showcas-
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ing the bakers in action, each business has a lavish display of fanciful pastries ready to go into a string-tied box and home with you. Make a family outing of it. Young eaters will enjoy seeing the hands-on action of the bakers while selecting one or two pastries to taste at home. Mom and dad will find that these baked gems go with one of their favorite adult drinks: coffee. (I found myself dipping nearly all of my selections in my morning cup of joe.) They make for a very pretty breakfast or dessert display for a holiday or special occasion, but you’ll want to buy them (and eat them) while they’re very fresh. Many panaderias are selfserve, and here’s how these typically work: When you arrive, grab
take the kids on a visit to a houston panaderia, where sweet and savory breads dazzle the taste buds and busy bakers captivate young minds.
scriptions of the pastries meant, but the cashier had no problem identifying them and explaining to me what they were while she wrapped them up. Total price for a dozen postres? Around $15, depending on what you select.
a large, metal pizza pan or tray from the stack near the entrance. Generally you’ll see bakers’ racks lined up with the freshest selections right out of the oven. Among the many, look for conchas (bright pink, yellow and white sugar-topped shells that you’ve probably seen at the grocery store), puerquitos (little pig-shaped raisin cookies, sometimes called marranitos or cochinitos), churros with their cinnamon and sugar coating and signature ribbed texture, and both sweet and savory empanadas. Using the tongs on the bakers’ racks and in the showcase bins, load up your tray, and when you’ve assembled what looks most interesting (or mysterious) head to the cash register. I couldn’t always decipher what the written de-
La Reynera 4120 McKinney, 713-224-1575
Here are six Houston panaderias worth seeking out; an asterisk denotes that they also serve breakfast and/or lunch. El Bolillo 2517 Airline 713-861-8885, elbolillo.com La Victoria Bakery* 7138 Lawndale 713-921-0861 lavictoriabakery.net Panaderia Central 12788 Veterans Memorial 281-866-07630
La Guadalapuna Bakery & Cafe* 2109 Dunlavy, 713-522-2301 Taqueria y Panaderia Del Sol* 8114 Park Place Blvd. 713-644-0535, ilovedelsol.com The ‘Family table’ column is brought to you as a collaboration between My Table and Houston Family Magazines. This column will appear monthly in print & online. For more information on great dining in and around Houston, please pick up the latest issue of My Table or visit them online at www.my-table.com. july 2015 . houston family magazine . 33
bookbites book reviews
for the love of reading valerie koehler, owner of the beloved blue willow bookshop, and her staff hand-pick the best reading selections for kids.
Baby: Get Ready For School by Dorling Kindersley editors (Dorling Kindersley, July 2015)
Are you already worried about your child’s first day of preschool? Dorling Kindersley has published a great interactive book to help prepare you and your toddler for his or her exciting new adventure.
Night World by Mordicai Gerstein (Little Brown Books For Young Readers, June 2015)
A young boy and his cat go outside into the night. The boy learns the beauty of the night and nature in this quiet book to be shared on a summer evening. Gerstein’s illustrations shine. 34 . houston family magazine . july 2015
school, and Olivia is whisked away to meet her father and her Grandmere, and she learns that she’s a princess, too!
Emerging: No Way...Way! Roadtrip by Tracey West (National Geographic Books, June 2015)
If you are going on a road trip this summer, here’s a fun and wacky guide for the whole family. It is chock full of facts and activities to occupy everyone.
Princess & The Pony by Kate Beaton (Scholastic Books, June 2015)
In a laugh out loud picture book that young readers will want to read to their parents, the princess wants a big, strong warrior horse. When she receives a chubby little pony instead, she has to learn that good things can come in different packages.
Tween: Fog Diver by Joel Ross (Harper Collins Children’s Books, June 2015)
In a world of the future, where a dangerous nanobot fog covers the earth and survivors live on mountaintops, Chess is a fog diver who risks his life scavenging from the ruins of cities below. Lord Kodoc, wants Chess, who has a special immunity to the fog, to work for him. Chess and his friends must reach the top of a mountain where a cure for fog sickness can be found. From The Notebooks of a Middle School Princess by Meg Cabot (Feiwel & Friends, May 20915)
Olivia is a twelve year old who is living an average life with her aunt, uncle and cousins. One day, a limo carrying Princess Mia of Genovia arrives at her
Teen: ecause You’ll Never B Meet Me by Leah Thomas (Blooomsbury USA Children’s Books, June, 2015)
Ollie and Moritz are pen pals who are destined never to meet. Ollie has an allergy to electricity and lives in a remote part of Michigan. Moritz has a weak heart and lives in Germany. Their friendship is tested when their shared past is revealed. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
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july 2015 . houston family magazine . 35
soaker storms! a Dealing with the Aftermath By Kimberly Davis Guerra
As a mom, I’ve always been big on keeping my kids on a schedule. They, like me, feel secure when they know what to expect and know what is expected of them. When tragedy strikes it can be difficult, even impossible, to keep your normal routine. Back when Hurricane Ike struck, we were all thrown for a loop, but we expected that! Lately, these Soaker Storms have the whole city out of whack! We talked with the experts to see what they suggest to get us all back on track. 36 . houston family magazine . july 2015
ccording to local child phsychiatrist, Dawnelle J. Schatte, M.D., Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry at UT-Houston, HCPC she suggests the following top five tips on helping our children deal with the days following any disaster. 1. Listen to the kids. They will tell you what they need to know and what they have questions about. We worry so much about what we will tell kids that we may go overboard. Wait until they ask, and answer those questions. 2. Check what they are worried about. They often worry about things we would never imagine. For example, they may not realize the storm is not coming
back, especially the next time a thunderstorm comes. 3. Take care of yourself. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, the child may sense it, but not know why. Reassure your child they did not cause this stress, and don’t be afraid to ask for help (from family, friends, church or social groups). 4. Keep the routine as similar as possible. This includes bedtime and making sure they have a favorite toy they sleep with every night. 5. Encourage the child to talk about their experiences. With teens this may be difficult with direct questioning, so listen for cues. Try having a conversation when the story comes up on the news. Talk to them while www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
“By creating an open environment where they feel free to ask questions, we can help them cope with stressful events and experiences, and reduce the risk of lasting emotional difficulties.” you are in the car or cooking together (or otherwise engaged or distracted), as it is less confrontational. According to the American Psychiatric Association(APA), hurricanes and other natural disasters are not easy for anyone to comprehend or accept. Understandably, many young children feel frightened and confused. As parents, teachers and caring adults, we can best help by listening and responding in an honest, consistent and supportive manner. Fortunately, most children, even those exposed to trauma, are quite resilient. However, by creating an open environment where they feel free to ask questions, we can help them cope with stressful events and experiences, and reduce the risk of lasting emotional difficulties. Although these may be difficult conversations, they are important. 1. Create an open and supportive environment where children know they can ask questions. At the same time, it’s best not to force children to talk about things unless and until they’re ready. 2. Give children honest answers and information. Children will usually know, or eventually find out, if you’re “making things up”. It may affect www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
their ability to trust you or your reassurances in the future. 3. Use words and concepts children can understand. Gear your explanations to the child’s age, language, and developmental level. 4. Be prepared to repeat information and explanations several times. Some information may be hard to accept or understand. Asking the same question over and over may also be a way for a child to ask for reassurance. 5. Acknowledge and validate the child’s thoughts, feelings, and reactions. Let them know that you think their questions and concerns are important and appropriate. 6. Remember that children tend to personalize situations. For example, they may worry about their own safety and the safety of immediate family members, friends and neighbors. 7. Be reassuring, but don’t make unrealistic promises. 8. Help children find ways to express themselves. Some children may not want to talk about their thoughts, feelings,
or fears. They may be more comfortable drawing pictures, playing with toys, or writing stories or poems. 9. Let children know that lots of people are helping the families affected by the storm. It’s a good opportunity to show children that when something scary happens, there are people to help. 10. Children learn from watching their parents and teachers. They will be very interested in how you respond to this tragedy. They also learn from listening to your conversations with other adults. 11. Don’t let children watch too much television with frightening images. The repetition of such scenes can be disturbing and confusing. 12. Children who have experienced trauma or losses in the past are particularly vulnerable to prolonged or intense reactions to news or images of natural disasters. These children may need extra support and attention. 13. Monitor for physical symptoms including headaches and stomachaches.
Many children express anxiety through physical aches and pains. An increase in such symptoms without apparent medical cause may be a sign that a child is feeling anxious or overwhelmed. 14. Children who are preoccupied with questions or concerns about fires or other natural disasters should be evaluated by a trained and qualified mental health professional. Other signs that a child may need additional help include: ongoing sleep disturbances, intrusive thoughts or worries, recurring fears about death, leaving parents or going to school. If these behaviors persist, ask your child’s pediatrician, family physician or school counselor to help arrange an appropriate referral. 15. Although parents and teachers may follow the news and the daily events with close scrutiny, many children just want to be children. They’d rather play ball, games or climb trees. The American Psychiatric Association provides a wealth of information on numerous topics. For more information, visit their website at www.psych.org. july 2015 . houston family magazine . 37
onthego
calendar of events
Treehouses exhibit at HMNS Sugar Land.
26
Houston Family Magazine’s Summer Fun Fest!
july 1
by karen neely
wednesday
a mugwump, some flim-flams, and a dumb cluck.
Enjoy an interactive interstellar ride on a mission to defeat a terrible Mugwump, and save the FlimFlam planet from his tyrannical rule. All ages. 10am, 1pm. $7. Lone Star College Cy-Fair. 9191 Barker Cypress Rd., Cypress. www.lonestar.edu/boxoffice.
sketching in the galleries at rienzi.
Artists of all ages are welcome to draw from 18th and 19th-century decorative arts objects during Rienzi’s open sketching hours on Wednesdays. All ages. 1pm-4:30pm. $8. 38 . houston family magazine . july 2015
1406 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org/calendar.
Humble. 281-446-8588. www.hcp4.net.
legos and duplos at the library.
mommy mingle.
Join our block party Wednesday and show us your creations! LEGOS and DUPLOS provided. 3pm. Free and open to the public. Central Library, 500 McKinney, 77002, 832-393-1313, www.houstonlibrary.org.
tadpoles club.
This interactive program introduces preschool-aged children to nature with animals, puppets, short walks, crafts and stories. Parent must accompany child; no younger or older siblings. Ages 3 & 4. Free. 10am or 1pm. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center. 20634 Kenswick Dr.,
Bring your little ones to Tot*Spot (the exclusive exhibit for children 35 months and under), on the first Wednesday of the month, and enjoy free coffee and snacks. Ages 35 mos and younger with adult. Free with general admission ($9, $8 senior age 65+, children under 1 free). 10am-12pm. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz, Houston. 713-5357238 or ldungus@cmhouston.org. www.cmhouston.org.
teen game frenzy.
Come unwind after a long, stressful day of school. Play video games, eat snacks and have fun. Teens. Free. 4:30pm.
Family Nature Night: Owls & Other Urban Birds
8
family faves now exhibiting
treehouses: look who’s living in the trees!
Explore our summer exhibit to uncover fascinating facts about who actually lives in trees, what kinds of animal clues to look and listen for in the forest, and how people use trees for their homes.
july 8
owls & other urban birds There is an amazing array of birds soaring over our city parks and nesting in our backyards.
indicates family fave pick www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego Northwest Branch Library. 1355 Regency Green Dr., Cypress. 281-890-2665. www.hcpl.net.
2
with classic rock band the Rhythm Bandits. All ages. Free. 7pm-10pm. City Centre. 800 W Sam Houston Pkwy. N., Houston. www.citycentrehouston.com.
thursday
the great museum.
rolling roadshow presents pee-wee’s big adventure.
The Great Museum offers a revealing look behind the scenes of Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum. All ages. $9. 7pm-8:40pm. Museum of Fine Arts HoustonLaw Building. 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. www.mfah.org.
parkour at discovery green.
Experienced, certified coaches utilize a unique, deconstructed approach to teaching running, jumping, climbing, crawling, balancing, vaulting, and fluidly moving through any environment. Ages 12+. Free. 8pm. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St, Houston. www.discoverygreen.com.
blue willow bookshop storytime.
Bring your child to Blue Willow to enjoy stories, songs and an art activity. Toddlers & preschoolers. Free. 10am. Blue Willow Bookshop. 14532 Memorial Dr., Houston. 281-497-8675. www.bluewillowbookshop.com.
museum free family night children’s museum of houston.
All admission fees are waived and families are able to come to the museum and experience everything it has to offer. All ages. Free ($3 parking in garage). 5pm-8pm. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz St., Houston. 713-5357264. www.cmhouston.org.
holocaust museum houston free thursdays.
Visitors to the Holocaust Museum Houston enjoy free general admission. All ages. Free. 2pm-5pm. Holocaust Museum Houston. 5401 Caroline St., Houston. 713-942-8000. www.hmh.org.
free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston.
Enjoy a full day of free activities every Thursday. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
turtle patrol at galveston island state park. You can become a citizen scientist, and help the park to understand more about the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle, an endangered species that nests Galveston Island State Park. See July 3. All ages. Free. 10am-9pm. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
free family thursday at the health museum.
Visitors enjoy free general admission. All ages. Free. 2pm-5pm. The Health Museum. 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston. 713-521-1515. www.mhms.org.
tai chi by the reflecting pool.
Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art whose physical practice offers general health benefits, stress management, increased energy, and improved physical mobility. Adults and older children. $10 suggested donation. 5pm-6pm. Rothko Chapel. 3900 Yupon Street, Houston. 713-524-9839.
table top game night.
This event provides children and parents an opportunity to play board games, card games, strategy games and other types of games with one another, to try out new games before they buy them, and to make lasting friendships. All ages. Free. 6pm-9pm. Bad Wolf Trading Company.
16911 Old Louetta Road #3, Houston. 832-717-4298 or www.badwolftrading.com.
first thursday sketching.
On the first Thursday of every month, sketch works of art in the museum galleries during this informal program; an MFAH teaching artist is on hand with paper, pencils, and clipboards to get you started. All ages. Free. Museum hours. The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Beck Building. 601 Main Street, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
3
friday
movies at millerthe wizard of oz.
Kansas girl Dorothy Gale and her little dog, Toto, are whisked by a tornado into the magical land of Oz in this much-loved 1939 musical film adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic novel. All ages. Free. 8:30 pm. Miller Outdoor Theater. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoor theatre.com.
rhythm bandits.
As part of our 4th of July weekend, enjoy music under the stars
This quirky film tells the story of an eccentric man-child, Pee-Wee Herman, who gets his beloved bike stolen in broad daylight and then sets out across the country the adventure of a lifetime. All ages. Free. 8:30pm. Market Square Park. 301 Milam St., Houston. 713-650-3022. www.marketsquarepark.com.
cool nights at the houston zoo: red, white and zoo.
The Houston Zoo is once again staying open late until 8:30 p.m., so you can enjoy the animals in the cooler evening weather with the added bonus of music, and kid-friendly activities. All ages. Free with zoo admission. 5pm-8pm. The Houston Zoo. 6200 Hermann Park Dr., Houston. www.houstonzoo.org.
houston aces vs. FW panthers.
The Houston Aces, Houston’s professional women’s soccer team, is wrapping up their 2015 season. All ages. $10. 7pm. HBU-Sorrels Field. 7502 Fondren Rd., Houston. www.thehoustonaces.com.
turtle patrol.
You can become a citizen scientist, and help the park to understand more about the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle, an endangered species that nests Galveston Island State Park. All ages. Free (with park entry $5). 6pm-7pm. Galveston Island State Park. 14901 FM 3005, Galveston. www.galveston.com. Lisa.Reznicek@tpwd.texas.gov.
baby boot camp’s freebie friday.
The first Friday of every month, Baby Boot Camp is free to moms with stroller-aged children. Free. 9:30am-10:30am. Memorial City Mall (by the entrance to Beck’s Prime). 303 Memorial City Way, Houston. summer.maura@babybootcamp.com. july 2015 . houston family magazine . 39
onthego art walk on main.
Motown the Musical presented by Broadway at the Hobby Center
centerstage HOUSTON IS RICH WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO SEE FAMILYFRIENDLY THEATER PERFORMANCES. HERE IS A SAMPLING OF WHAT’S AVAILABLE THIS MONTH. PRESENTATIONS ARE FOR ALL AGES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. Houston Young Artist’s Concert Miller Outdoor Theater
Hear the artists of tomorrow! Talented musical prodigies— ages 4-18—shine in a dazzling showcase. July 1, 11am • Tickets: Free Miller Outdoor Theatre. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
Journey Through China Miller Outdoor Theater
Explore China’s many rich cultures, traditions, and regions through exciting, evocative, and dazzling Chinese dances. July 3, 11 am • Tickets: Free Miller Outdoor Theatre. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
Star Spangled Salute The Houston Symphony
Celebrate America’s birthday with a bang at the annual Star-Spangled Salute, which has been a tradition at The Pavilion for 25 years. July 3, 8 pm • Tickets: Free Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. 2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands. www.woodlandscenter.org.
Music of Michael Jackson The Houston Symphony
The Houston Symphony brings you the Music of Michael Jackson, a high-energy spectacle with the orchestra and amplified with a full band and vocals. July 24, 7:30 pm • Tickets: $29-$93 Jones Hall. 615 Louisiana St., Houston. www.houstonsymphony.org.
Pokemon Symphonic Evolutions The Houston Symphony
Brought to life by the Houston Symphony performing all new
Presented the first Friday of each month by the Main Street Business Association, this event features the works of local and regional artists displayed at businesses in the Main Street district. All ages. Free. 6pm-9pm. Main Street Merchants. Main Street, La Porte. 281-9073140. http://laportetx.gov.
4
saturday
movie nite on the strand – elf.
Moviegoers are encouraged to stop for a bite to eat at a wide variety of downtown restaurants before setting up a blanket or chair for a free movie under the stars. All ages. Free. Movie begins after dusk. Saengerfest Park. 2300 Strand, Galveston. www.galveston.com.
south montgomery county annual 4th of july parade.
You’re invited to show off your patriotism and celebrate our country with the 4th of July Parade, live music and entertainment, awards ceremony, and so much more for the whole family to enjoy! All ages. Free. 8am-10:30am. Grogan’s Mill Rd. and Lake Woodlands Dr., The Woodlands. www.4thofjuly.org.
young writers workshop.
Houston’s only free writing workshop for kids, presented by HPL Express, Writers in the Schools and Discovery Green. All ages. Free. 10:30am-11:30am. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St., Houston. 713-400-7336 or www.discoverygreen.com.
first saturday arts market.
First Saturday Arts Market is a monthly outdoor fine arts event featuring the works of dozens of visual artists and showcasing paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and handcrafted items. All ages. Free admission. 9am1pm. Wind Water Gallery parking lot. 548 West 19th St., Houston. 713-802-1213 or www.firstsaturdayartsmarket.com.
galveston beach hike.
Beach hikes start at the park’s 40 . houston family magazine . july 2015
Nature Center; we’ll orient ourselves, and then move to the beach to look for beach treasures and explore why this place is so special. All ages. Free to park visitors ($5/adult entrance fee, anyone under 13 years is free). 10am-11am. Galveston Island State Park. 14901 FM-3005 Galveston. www.galveston.com/ calendarofevents or Lisa.Reznicek@tpwd.texas.gov.
kayak rides on kinder lake.
Enjoy a relaxing, guided kayak ride. All ages. $5. 11am-5pm. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St., Houston. 713-400-7336. www.discoverygreen.com.
5
sunday
m-80’s.
As part of our 4th of July weekend, enjoy music under the stars with new wave band the M-80’s. All ages. Free. 7pm-10pm. City Centre. 800 W Sam Houston Pkwy. N., Houston. www.citycentrehouston.com.
live music at east beach.
Grab your beach gear and head to the island’s party beach for a free, live concert series from every Sunday throughout the summer. All ages. Free. 3pm-6pm. East Beach, Galveston. www.galveston.com.
sunday family zone + studio.
Spend some time with the friendly family educators: sit on a pillow and read, sketch a work of art and join an investigation of an artwork. All ages. $15 adult, $10 senior, $7.50 child age 13-18 (children 12 and under free). 1pm-4pm. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Beck Building, 5601 Main Street, Houston. Law Building, 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
get pop-cultured: outlander.
Fans of Outlander are invited to be transported to the intriguing world of bestselling author Diana Gabaldon with trivia, giveaways, and more. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
july 2015 . houston family magazine . 41
centerstage arrangements and carefully timed visuals from recent and classic Pokémon video games, giving fans and newcomers of all ages a chance to experience the evolution of the Pokémon franchise like never before.
Adults. Free. 2pm-3pm. Barnes & Noble River Oaks. 2030 W. Gray St., Houston. 713-522-8571.
July 25, 7:30 pm; July 26, 2:30 pm Tickets: $29-$99 Jones Hall. 615 Louisiana St., Houston. www.houston symphony.org.
creative moves for tots class.
The Hot Sardines The Grand 1894 Opera House
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4.
6
monday
All Tots are invited to play, dance, move, shake, and stretch in a fun-filled mommy and me class. Ages 5 and under. Free. 12 pm. The Church of St. John the Divine. 2450 River Oaks Blvd., Houston. www.sjd.org.
Take a blustery brass lineup, layer it over a rhythm section led by a stride-piano virtuoso in the Fats Waller vein, and tie the whole thing together with a one-of-the-boys front woman with a voice from another era, and you have the Hot Sardines.
the coconuts.
July 5, 3 pm Tickets: $20-$78 The Grand 1894 Opera House. 2020 Postoffice St., Galveston. 800-821-1894. www.thegrand.com.
Mondays with Mommy takes children on a monthly fun, educational journey while utilizing music and movement. Ages 0-5. Free. 10am. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Katy. www.lacenterra.com.
Sinbad The Grand 1894 Opera House
Stand-up comedian, movie, and TV star Sinbad brings his “tickle your funny bone” talent back to The Grand for an encore performance. July 11, 8pm Tickets: $30-$98 The Grand 1894 Opera House. 2020 Postoffice St., Galveston. 800-821-1894. www.thegrand.com.
An Evening with Anthony Bourdain Society for the Performing Arts
Chef, author, and raconteur Anthony Bourdain, who is best known for traveling the
42 . houston family magazine . july 2015
As part of our 4th of July weekend, enjoy music under the stars with the Jimmy Buffett inspired band the Coconuts. All ages. Free. 5pm-8pm. City Centre. 800 W Sam Houston Pkwy. N., Houston. www.citycentrehouston.com.
mondays with mommy.
baby bounce.
An active storytime for infants. Ages 3-18mos. Free. 10:15am. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509. www.hcpl.net.
baby time.
Stories, songs, and playtime for babies 6-18 months, and their caregivers. 10:30am. Free and open to the public. Central Library, 500 McKinney, 77002. 832-3931313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
preschool storytime.
Stories, songs and crafts for children ages 3-5 years old and their caregivers. 1pm. Free and open to the public. Central Library. 500 McKinney, 77002. 832-393-1313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
an evening with anthony bourdain presented by society for the performing arts. Chef, author, and raconteur Anthony Bourdain, who is best known for traveling the globe on his stomach, will spend the evening sharing candid, unyielding insights about his life’s work and travels, including an open question and answer session with the audience. See Center Stage on page 40. toddler time.
Stories, songs, crafts and playtime for toddlers. Ages 18-36mos. Free. 11:30am. Central Library. 500 McKinney St., Houston. 832-393-1313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
7
tuesday
free writing workshop: summer time.
Helps students develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. 2nd-8th grade students. Free. 2-3 pm. IKEA. 7810 Katy Freeway. Houston. www.witshouston.org.
free afternoon at the houston zoo.
The Houston Zoo offers free admission to its guests on the first Tuesday of each month, September through May. All ages. Free. 2pm-7pm. (last entry at 6pm). The Houston Zoo. 6200 Hermann Dr.,
Houston. 713-533-6500 or www.houstonzoo.org.
jump session for kids with special needs.
On the first Tuesday of every month, Sky High Sports turns off the music and dials down the distractions for the comfort of special-needs kids and their families and friends. All ages. $5 (parent or guardian free). 3pm-6pm. Sky High Sports. 10510 Westview Dr., Houston. 713-464-5867 or http://hou.jumpskyhigh.com.
open door.
Open Door is an arts and crafts program offered at Crosspoint Church on Tuesday mornings. All ages. $15 registration fee. 9am-12pm. Crosspoint Church. 4601 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire. 713-668-2319 or www.cpointchurch.org.
toddler yoga.
Toddler Yoga is a fun, active way www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego
4th of july celebrations Summer Symphony Nights: Star Spangled Salute.
Summer Symphony Nights: Star Spangled Salute
Enjoy an evening with Principal POPS Conductor Designate Steven Reineke and the Houston Symphony listening to patriotic, toe-tapping music. All ages. Free. 8:30 pm. Miller Outdoor Theater. 6000 Hermann Park Dr, Houston. www.houstonsymphony.org.
Southwest Airlines Freedom Over Texas. Prolific singer-songwriter and Houston son, Clint Black and double-platinumselling singer, songwriter Josh Turner will headline the 29-year-old annual event on the Southwest Airlines Stage that will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display by Citgo. All ages. $8 (children under 5 free). 4pm-10pm. Eleanor Tinsley Park. 500 Allen Pkwy., Houston. www.houstontx.gov.
July 4th Celebration at Bayou Bend. With performers, crafts, activities, refreshments, and much more, join the the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston to celebrate Independence Day at Houston’s home for American decorative arts and paintings. All ages. Free. 1pm-5pm. Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. 6003 Memorial Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org.
4th of July at City Centre.
Freedom Over Texas
The Katy Freedom Celebration. Come out to Katy Mills Mall for a fireworks spectacular. All ages. Free. 9:30pm. Katy Mills Mall. 5000 Katy Mills Circle, Katy. www.cityofkaty.com.
Star Spangled Spectacular at Constellation Field. Join Swatson and Moe with a Skeeter’s apple pie out in the outfield and enjoy a variety of entertainment with a patriotic fireworks finale. All ages. Free (to Sugar Land residents-see website for details). 7pm-10pm. Constellation Field. 1 Constellation Dr., Sugar Land. www.sugarlandtx.gov.
Missouri City’s 4th of July Celebration.
Come out for a night of music and amazing fireworks to celebrate our nation’s independence. All ages. Free. 7pm. City Centre. 800 W Sam Houston Pkwy. N., Houston. www.citycentrehouston.com.
Starting at 6pm, free activities, such as moonwalks, a rock wall, mechanical bulls and pony rides will be available to entertain all ages until 9pm. All ages. Free. 6pm-9pm. Buffalo Run Park. 1122 Buffalo Run Blvd., Missouri City. www.missouricitytx.gov.
July 4th Parade and Festival.
4th of July at the Kemah Boardwalk.
Enjoy a patriotic parade, followed by a day of fun-filled activities for the whole family. All ages. Free admission. 9:30am-1pm. Bellaire Town Square. 7001 5th St., Bellaire, www.ci.bellaire.tx.us.
Live music & patriotic fireworks show over Galveston Bay. All ages. See website for admission information. All day (fireworks at 9:30pm). Kemah Boardwalk. 215 Kipp Ave., Kemah. www.kemahboardwalk.com.
Celebration of Freedom.
176th City of Galveston Celebration Independence Day Parade and Fireworks.
Join the city of Pearland in celebrating our country’s independence! All ages. Free. 6pm-10pm. Pearland High School Football Stadium.3775 S. Main, Pearland. www.pearlandtx.gov.
Don’t miss this wonderful evening with a glittering parade followed by a dazzling fireworks display over the Gulf! All ages. Free. 7:30pm. 37th St. and Seawall Blvd., Galveston. www.galveston.com.
La Centerra’s 4th of July Celebration.
18th Annual Red, White and Blue Festival.
LaCenterra kicks off the celebration with a Kids Patriotic Bike Parade, followed by live music, an interactive Kid’s Zone and the dramatic conclusion of an extraordinary fireworks display! All ages. Free. 4:30-9:30 pm. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Katy. www.LaCenterra.com.
Come out for hot dog and watermelon eating contests, live music and entertainment, fireworks show, children’s games and activities and family fun for everyone to partake in. All ages. Free. 6pm-10pm. Town Green Park. 2099 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands. www.visitthewoodlands.com.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
july 2015 . houston family magazine . 43
centerstage globe on his stomach, will spend the evening sharing candid, unyielding insights about his life’s work and travels, including an open question and answer session with the audience. July 8, 7:30 pm Tickets: $43-$103 Jones Hall. 615 Louisiana St., Houston. www.spahouston.org.
The Foreigner Alley Theatre
In the marvelously funny comedy, Alley Resident Company member Jeffrey Bean leads the cast of this comic gem, set in a remote fishing lodge, where socially awkward Charlie discovers intriguing and dangerous secrets under the guise of a foreigner who speaks no English. July 8-Aug. 9, see website for showtimes Tickets: $26-$84 University of Houston. 4116 Elgin, Houston. 713-220-5700. www.alleytheatre.org.
Fancy Nancy: The Musical Main Street Theater Meet Nancy: from the top of her tiara down to her sparkly studded shoes, Nancy believes that more is ALWAYS better when it comes to being fancy!
Saturdays July 11, 18, & 25, Aug. 1; see website for showtimes. Tickets: $18+. Talento Bilingue De Houston. 333 S. Jensen Dr., Houston. 713-524-6706. MainStreetTheater.com.
to interact with your child as they become a lot more mobile. For children under 3 years of age. 10:30am. Free and open to the public. Central Library. 500 McKinney, 77002, 832-3931313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
toddler time.
A fun program for younger children. Ages 18mos.-3yrs. Free. 10:15am & 11am. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509. www.hcpl.net.
preschool story time.
Read books, sing songs and do a craft project. Ages 3-6. Free. 10:30am. Northwest Branch Library. 11355 Regency Green Dr., Cypress. 281-890-2665. www.hcpl.net.
8
bubble time.
Games, music and and bubbles coming down. All ages. Free. 3:00-4:30pm. Aldine Branch Library. 11331 Airline Dr., Houston. www.hcpl.net.
family nature night: owls & other urban birds.
There is an amazing array of birds soaring over our city parks and nesting in our backyards. All ages. $10 per family. Nature Discovery Center. 7112 Newcastle, Bellaire. 713-667-6550. www.naturediscoverycenter.org.
sketching in the galleries at rienzi. See July 1.
legos and duplos at the library. See July 1.
This Tony Award-nominated and Grammy Awardwinning tribute to
44 . houston family magazine . july 2015
Based on KLUTZ® Encyclopedia of Immaturity, this exhibit will offer you the opportunity to embrace your inner ingenious zaniness while exploring what these behaviors can teach you about science, engineering, math, and literacy. See Now Exhibiting on page 48. free family thursday at the health museum. See July 2.
tai chi by the reflecting pool. See July 2.
blue willow bookshop storytime. See July 2. free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston. See July 2.
museum free family night: children’s museum of houston. See July 2.
tadpoles club. See July 1.
holocaust museum family free thursdays. See July 2.
teen game frenzy.
table top game night.
See July 1.
9 Smokey Joe’s Cafe Theatre Under the Stars
wednesday
amazingly immature at the children’s museum of houston.
thursday
katy gardening club.
On the 2nd Thursday of the month, join other gardeners in your area to learn new ways to grow. Free. 11am. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509.www.hcpl.net.
See July 2.
parkour at discovery green. See July 2.
10
friday
blow out the birthday candles with the woodlands children’s museum.
Help celebrate the fifth anniversary
at its current location, with birthday cake, and birthdaythemed activities. Ages 7 and under. $5. 10am-5pm. The Woodlands Children’s Museum. 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Suite 280, The Woodlands. 281-465-0955. www.woodlands childrensmuseum.org.
camp sienna teen computer classes: web design.
The classes are designed to help teens navigate school assignments and create fun projects. Teens. Free-but reservations are required. 2pm. Sienna Branch Library. 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd., Missouri City. 281-238-2952.
chill skills.
Cy-Fair Community Youth Services Specialist, Theresa Williams will help young adults learn about anger management, social skills, positive self-esteem and bullying through group activities. Ages 10+ (must have permission slip). Free. Northwest Branch Library. 11355 Regency Green Dr., Cypress. www.hcpl.net. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego cool nights at the houston zoo: teddy bear bash. See July 3.
ringling bros. and barnum & bailey presents legends. See July 9.
turtle patrol. See July 3.
11
saturday
music night on the strand: mike stinson.
Don’t miss free live concerts in downtown Galveston’s Saengerfest Park! Visitors are encouraged to bring their own seating. All ages. Free. 6pm-9 pm. Saengerfest Park. 2300 Strand, Galveston. www.galveston.com.
greater houston rath yatra.
Greater Houston Rath Yatra or “Festival of Chariots,” which originated thousands of years ago in Puri, India, will be celebrated. All ages. Free. 6pm-10pm. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St., Houston. 713-400-7336. www.discoverygreen.com.
movie under the moon.
Bring your family, friends and lawn chairs to the Plaza to enjoy a free Movie Under the Moon brought to you by our friends at First Colony Church of Christ! All ages. Free. 7:45pm-10pm. Sugar Land Town Square. 2711 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-276-6000. www.sugarlandtownsquare.com.
2nd saturday at the depot.
2nd Saturday at the Depot is a free monthly, family-style event with games and activities, entertainment and a movie at dark on the giant inflatable screen. All ages. Free. All day. Tomball Downtown Depot. 201 South Elm Street, Tomball. www.tomballtx.gov.
free practice SAT/ACT tests.
Firat Educational Solutions hosts practice tests for the SAT/ACT every second Saturday of every month. In addition, Firat is now accepting students to take full-length practice high school entrance exams. Registration required. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
centerstage legendary songwriters Leiber and Stoller is a dazzling, song-and-dance celebration of over 40 of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest hits. July 14-19, 8:15 pm Miller Outdoor Theatre. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.miller outdoortheatre.com.
Joshua and the Ta-Ra, Ta-Raa, Ta-Raaa! A.D. Players
A wildly entertaining musical comedy for children of all ages about Joshua and the Battle of Jericho. July 14-Aug. 16, see website for showtimes Tickets: $12 A.D. Players Grace Theater. 2710 W. Alabama, Houston. www.adplayers.org.
Motown the Musical Broadway at the Hobby Center
Motown the Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. July 21-26, see website for showtimes Tickets: $30+ The Hobby Center/Sarofim Hall. 800 Bagby, Ste. 300, Houston. 713-315-2400. www.thehobbycenter.org.
Idina Menzel Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Enjoy an evening of music with the incomparable Idina Menzel. July 31, 8 pm Tickets: $35-$115 (reserved seating only) Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. 2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands. www.woodlandscenter.org.
july 2015 . houston family magazine . 45
Ages 7th-12th grade. Free. 8:30am-12:30pm. Firat Educational Solutions. 3701 W. Alabama St., Ste. 390, Houston. 713-871-1048. www.firateducation.com.
houston aces vs. OKC.
second saturday buffalo bayou boat rides.
preschool storytime.
Escape from the city and enjoy the cool breeze as you glide along the bayou’s waters. Look for graceful herons, jumping fish, and even the occasional alligator sunning on the bayou’s banks. Ages 4+. 10am-2pm (30-min. rides). $7 adult, $5 child (cash only). Sabine Promenade. 150 Sabine Street, Houston. 713-752-0314. info@buffalobayou.org. www.buffalobayou.org.
rice village flea.
Vendors vary monthly and can range from glass artisans and antique dealers to chocolatiers and coffee merchants. All ages. Free admission. 11am-6pm. Rice Village. 5504 Morningside Dr., Houston. 917-664-5622. flea@thericevillage.org.
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4. young writers workshop. See July 4.
galveston beach hike. See July 4.
12
sunday
fancy nancy’s artsy adventures.
Grab some glitter glue and create your own fancy paper dolls and accessories, inspired by the elegant portraits of 18th-century men and women in the Rienzi Collection. All ages. Free. 1pm. Rienzi. 1406 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org/calendar.
colombian fest.
Come out to enjoy a variety of typical foods, drinks, arts and crafts and an atmosphere fun for the entire family. All ages. $20. 11am-10pm. Sam Houston Park. 901 Bagby St., Houston. www.colombianfest.com. 46 . houston family magazine . july 2015
See July 3, 4pm.
baby bounce. See July 6. baby time. See July 6. See July 6.
toddler time. See July 6.
14
tuesday
middle school program: t-shirt design.
children’s hilltop festival: frida’s fiesta at miller outdoor theatre. This original bilingual (Spanish/English) play with music tells the story of Frida, a shy girl who journeys into the forest to confront an evil witch. See Center Stage on page 40. second sunday pickers.
Visitors are welcome to bring an instrument to join in the fun or enjoy the folk music from the audience. All ages. Free. 2pm-4pm. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center. 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble. 281-446-8588. www.hcp4.net
tummy troubles?
Tummy Troubles and poor digestion can cause nutritional deficiency, an impaired immune system and disrupted detoxification. Nettie Ramsay N.D. Wellness Consultations offers free class that will open your eyes to some of the simple fixes to your TUMMY TROUBLES! All ages. Free. 2:30pm-4:30pm. Registration Required. The Vitamin Shoppe. 10201 Katy Freeway, Houston. 713-467-6784.
houston aces vs. tulsa spirit. See July 3. live music at east beach. See July 5.
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4.
sunday family zone + studio. See July 5. rice village flea.
Design your own t-shirt with ironon art, puffy paint, etc. Teens going into 6-8 grade only. Free. 2pm-2:50pm. Missouri City Branch Library. 1530 Texas Parkway, Missouri City. www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.
sunset kayak ride to east end lagoon.
An easy paddle in natural wetlands, the East End Lagoon offers an up-close view of the entry to the second largest port in the United States. Ages 5+. $25 per person. 5pm-7pm. Artist Boat. 2627 Avenue O, Galveston. 409-770-0722. info@artistboat.org.
open door. See July 7.
See July 11.
toddler yoga. See July 7.
13
toddler time. See July 7.
monday
julian franklin’s magic workshop.
Learn Julian Franklin’s tricks of the trade during this magic workshop. Grades 6 and up. Free (registration required). 3pm-4pm. University Branch Library. 14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land. www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.
“hercules” presented by the hampstead stage company.
Join us for a family-friendly live performance of Hercules presented by the Hampstead Stage Company. All ages. Free. 2:30pm-3:30pm. Rosenberg Library. 2310 Sealy St., Galveston. www.rosenberg-library.org.
preschool story time. See July 7.
15
wednesday
mary pearson to sign and discuss her new novel.
Mary Pearson will discuss and sign her new novel for teens, The Heart of Betrayal. All ages. Free. 7pm. Blue Willow Bookshop. 14532 Memorial Dr., Houston. 281-497-8675 or www.bluewillowbookshop.com.
sketching in the galleries at rienzi. See July 1.
legos and duplos at the library. See July 1. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego tadpoles club. See July 1. teen game frenzy. See July 1.
16
thursday
summer sounds on the plaza: step rideau and the zydeco outlaws.
Step Rideau and the Zydeco Outlaws’ traditional zydeco music, served with a side of contemporary influences, makes your toes tap and your hips swing! All ages. Free (suggested donation $10). 7pm. Rothko Chapel. 3900 Yupon St., Houston. www.rothkochapel.org.
wild things zoofari.
nate four replicants who stole a ship in space and have returned to Earth to find their creator. All ages. Free. 8:30pm. Market Square Park. 301 Milam St., Houston. 713-650-3022. www.marketsquarepark.com.
summerland tour 2015.
A summer concert event featuring Everclear, The Toadies, Fuel and American Hi-Fi. All ages. $46+. 7pm. Bayou Music Center. 520 Texas Ave., Houston. 713-230-1600. www.bayoumusiccenter.com.
turtle patrol. See July 3.
Stop by Rosenberg Library to learn about exotic animals with Wild Things Zoofari. All ages. Free. 10am-11am. Rosenberg Library. 2310 Sealy St., Galveston. www.rosenberg-library.org.
camp sienna teen computer classes: MS powerpoint. See July 10.
free family thursday at the health museum.
The 4th Annual Texas Stallions Relays (rescheduled from March 21) promises to be a fun and exciting event with over 500 youth athletes competing in 3 relays, 8 open running events and 5 field events. All ages. $6 admission. 8:30 am. Magnolia High School, 14350 Farm to Market 1488 Road, Magnolia. www.texasstallionsrelays.com.
See July 2.
tai chi by the reflecting pool. See July 2. blue willow bookshop storytime. See July 2.
free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston. See July 2.
museum free family night: children’s museum of houston. See July 2. holocaust museum family free thursdays. See July 2. table top game night. See July 2.
parkour at discovery green. See July 2.
17
friday
rolling roadshow presents blade runner.
Blade Runner tells the story of Harrison Ford’s character, Rick Deckard, who must try to termiwww.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
18
saturday
4th annual texas stallions relays.
sugar land superstar round two.
A highly talented group of singers will perform, and five will be named finalists for the August final competition. All ages. Free. 7pm-9pm. Sugar Land Town Square. 2711 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-276-6000. www.sugarlandtownsquare.com.
julydoscope.
It begins with high-energy, multidance company performances followed by the screening of Shake the Dust, an inspiring tribute to the power of hip-hop music and breakdancing. All ages. Free. 7pm-10pm. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St., Houston. 713-400-7336. www.discoverygreen.com. july 2015 . houston family magazine . 47
onthego
Treehouses: Look Who’s Living in the Trees! at HMNS Sugar Land.
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4.
creative moves for tots class. See July 6.
young writers workshop.
baby bounce. See July 6.
galveston beach hike.
baby time. See July 6. preschool storytime.
See July 4.
See July 6.
19
toddler time. See July 6.
See July 4.
nowexhibiting EDUCATION CAN BE FUN WHEN KIDS GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE DIVERSIFIED, CULTURAL, ARTISTIC, HISTORICAL AND CONTEMPORARY EXHIBITS AVAILABLE AT HOUSTON MUSEUMS AND ENRICHMENT CENTERS. Houston Museum of Natural Science Shark!
See what it’s like to get up close and personal with sharks at the live shark touch tank, track great white sharks swimming in the Gulf of Mexico in real time, and see what’s happening with sharks all over the world through amazing conservation efforts led by top marine biologists. Aug. 29, 2014-Sept. 7 • Tickets: $25 adult, $20 child and senior 62+ Museum Hours: Mon.-Sun. 9am-5pm Admission: $20 adult, $15 child (3-11), senior (62+) and college student Houston Museum of Natural Science. 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston. 713-639-4629. www.hmns.org.
Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land Treehouses-Look Who’s Living in the Trees!
Explore our summer exhibit to uncover fascinating facts about who actually lives in trees, what kinds of animal clues to look and listen for in the forest, and how people use trees for their homes.
sunday
rumpelstiltskin: a marionette performance & puppet making workshop.
Families enjoy an afternoon of entertainment as the evil elf Rumpelstiltskin works his magic turning straw into gold (a puppet making workshop follows). All ages. Free. 1pm. Rienzi. 1406 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org/calendar.
live music at george memorial library: sunday showcase concert.
Stop by the library on Sunday afternoons to enjoy a variety of musical genres and styles at this special summer series. All ages. Free. 2pm. George Memorial Library. 1001 Golfview, Richmond. 281-342-4455.
national ice cream day celebration.
21
tuesday
children’s hilltop festival: our feet can tell a story.
A poetic and musical journey through time, this production celebrates the rich cultural heritage of African-Americans by tracing the many pathways and passages their feet have traveled — from ancient Africa to modern day Houston. All ages. Free. 11am. Miller Outdoor Theater. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoor theatre.com.
buoyancy challenge!
Join us dockside to put your skills to the test and create a ship that doesn’t stink….I mean sink! All ages. 5 and under-$3, 6-18 years old-$12. 2pm. Texas Seaport Museum. 2200 Harborside Dr., Galveston. (409)763-1877.
Come on and shake, rattle, and roll your way to a tasty, frozen treat to celebrate this sweet day. All ages. Free with museum admission. 10am-6pm. Houston Children’s Museum. 1500 Binz St., Houston. www.cmhouston.org.
open door. See July 7.
May 22-Sept. 5 Museum Hours: Thurs. & Fri. 9am-3pm, Sat. 9am-5pm and Sun. 12pm-5pm Admission: $12 adult, $9 child and senior (62+) Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land. 13016 University Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-313-2277. www.hmns.org.
The Health Museum Eat Well, Play Well
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4.
22
Eat Well, Play Well encourages healthy living by teaching the science of making healthy food choices and helping children and adults discover there are many fun and interesting ways to stay active.
live music at east beach. See July 5.
May 16-Sept. 7 Museum Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 12pm-5pm Admission: $9, $7 child and senior (65+), children under 2 are free The Health Museum. 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston. www.thehealthmuseum.org.
sunday family zone + studio. See July 5.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Shadow Monsters
Enjoy stories, singing and much, much more with Elsa of Arendelle. Ages 3-12. Free. Atascocita Branch Library. 19520 Pinehurst Trail Dr., Humble. www.hcpl.net.
Shadow Monsters, an interactive installation by New York-based British artist Philip Worthington, invites Museum visitors to take part in a fully immersive art experience. 48 . houston family magazine . july 2015
20
monday
frozen fun!
toddler yoga. See July 7. toddler time. See July 7. preschool story time. See July 7.
wednesday
children’s hilltop festival: frida’s fiesta.
This original bilingual (Spanish/English) play with music tells the story of Frida, a shy girl who journeys into the forest to confront an evil witch. All ages. Free. 11am. Miller Outdoor Theater. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoor theatre.com.
cat and dog rescue program.
Volunteers from Loving Arms Pet www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
nowexhibiting May 23-Sept. 20 Tickets: $23 adult, $18 child (13-18), senior (65+) and student (19+) (children 12 and younger free); $5 audio tour Museum Hours: Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm, Thurs. 10am9pm, Fri.-Sat. 10am-7pm and Sun. 12:15pm-7pm Admission: $15 adult; $10 senior (65+), $7.50 child (13-18) and student (19+) (children 12 and under free); discounted tickets may be purchased online The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Beck Building, 5601 Main St., Houston, and Law Building, 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. 713639-7300. www.mfah.org.
Children’s Museum of Houston Amazingly Immature
Based on KLUTZ® Encyclopedia of Immaturity Vol. 1 and 2, KLUTZ® Amazingly Immature will offer you the opportunity to embrace your inner ingenious zaniness while exploring what these behaviors can teach you about science, engineering, math, and literacy. Mar. 7-Jan. 5, 2016
Summer Of Epic Adventure: Forces Unite
Gear up, train up and put your powers to the test! May 23-Sept. 7 Museum Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10am-6pm, Sun. 12pm-6pm, Thurs. 10am-8pm Admission: $10 (adults and children 1+), $9 seniors 65+ Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz, Houston. 713-522-1138. www.cmhouston.org.
Asia Society Texas Center Inspired by Nam June Paik: Becoming Robot; Work by New York City Students Discover the unique perspective of New York
50 . houston family magazine . july 2015
Placement rescue will bring cats and dogs to meet the children. All ages. Free. 3pm-4pm. West University Branch Library. 6108 Auden, Houston. www.hcpl.net.
sketching in the galleries at rienzi. See July 1. legos and duplos at the library. See July 1. tadpoles club. See July 1. Teen Game Frenzy. See July 1.
23
thursday
children’s hilltop festival: my bff, the dragon.
Two princes, one human and the other a dragon, are forced into an age-old Human/ Dragon war by their kingly fathers. But, when the princes confront each other, they discover that, despite appearances, they have a lot more in common than they originally thought. All ages. Free. 11am. Miller Outdoor Theater. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
bugs on wheels.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science brings a variety of bugs to show children. Ages 5+. Free (must check in 30 minutes prior to program). 3:30pm-4:15pm. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library. 16616 Diana Ln., Houston. www.hcpl.net.
free family thursday at the health museum. See July 2.
tai chi by the reflecting pool. See July 2.
blue willow bookshop storytime. See July 2. free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston. See July 2.
museum free family night: children’s museum of houston. See July 2.
YMCA kids triathlon presented by the woodlands kiwanis club. The South Montgomery County Family YMCA and The Woodlands Kiwanis Club will be hosting a morning of friendly competition and physical activity that can lead to a lifetime of fitness. See July 25. holocaust museum family free thursdays. See July 2. table top game night. See July 2.
parkour at discovery green. See July 2.
24
friday
children’s hilltop festival: ali baba and the forty thieves.
Asia Society Texas. 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston. www.asiasociety.org/texas.
space city comic con.
Space City Comic Con is the Gulf Coast’s fan-culture convention and family entertainment, pop-culture expo for all ages. All ages. $30+. 12pm-8pm. NRG Center. 8400 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.spacecitycomiccon.com.
The first in a three-part original series adapted from the literary classic, this play is about a boy who stumbles into a cave where 40 thieves store their loot. When the boy takes some gold for himself, he’s pursued by the thieves and learns a valuable lesson about the dangers of greed and the virtues of honesty. All ages. Free. 11am. Miller Outdoor Theater. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
dancing under the stars.
summer family film night.
See July 10.
Asia Society invites you to our first-ever outdoor film screening! Join us on the Festival Lawn in front of the building for this free evening of great film shorts from across Asia. All ages. Free. 7:30 pm.
Break out your dancing shoes and join us in the Plaza for a night of Dancing Under The Stars with Fred Astaire Dance Studio instructors. Adults. Free. 7:30pm-9:30pm. Sugar Land Town Square. 2711 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-276-6000. www.sugarlandtownsquare.com.
purtle patrol. See July 3. camp sienna teen computer classes: digital storytelling.
25
saturday
YMCA kids triathlon presented by the woodlands kiwanis club.
The South Montgomery County www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego filled with awesome chemistry experiments. 5 years old and up. Free. 2pm-3pm. Sienna Branch Library. 8411 Sienna Springs Dr., Missouri City. www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.
Family YMCA and The Woodlands Kiwanis Club will be hosting a morning of friendly competition and physical activity that can lead to a lifetime of fitness. Ages 7 – 12. 5:30-10 am. $30. South Montgomery County Family YMCA. 8100 Ashlane Way. The Woodlands. www.ymcahouston.org.
live music at east beach.
live music at george memorial library: sunday showcase concert.
open door. See July 7.
See July 19.
toddler yoga. See July 7.
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4.
space city comic con.
toddler time. See July 7.
young writers workshop.
27
galveston beach hike.
one world, one sky big birds adventure.
See July 4. See July 4.
space city comic con. See July 24, 10am-7pm.
26
sunday
houston family magazine fun fest.
Come out and enjoy face painting, fun activities under every tent, food trucks, inflatables, arts and crafts, door prizes, music, performances on stage, HFM swag bags and more! All ages. Free. 12pm-4pm. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy. www.houstonfamilymagazine.com.
kayak rides on kinder lake. See July 4.
See July 5.
sunday family zone + studio. See July 5.
See July 24, 10am-6pm.
monday
Bird Big and his friends Elmo and Hu Hu Zhu from China explore the stars and moon over Sesame Street! Ages 3-5. Free. 3pm. Atascocita Branch Library. 19520 Pinehurst Trail Dr., Humble. www.hcpl.net.
baby bounce. See July 6. baby time. See July 6.
preschool story time. See July 7.
29
wednesday
hiccup & toothless dragon party.
Join Hiccup & Toothless and see how to celebrate your dragon with activities and refreshments. All ages. Free. 3pm-4pm. Fairbanks Branch Library. 7122 Gessner Blvd., Houston. www.hcpl.net.
sketching in the galleries at rienzi.
preschool storytime.
See July 1.
toddler time. See July 6.
legos and duplos at the library. See July 1.
28
tadpoles club. See July 1.
See July 6.
tuesday
chemistry explosions.
The Houston Natural Museum of Science will present a program
teen game frenzy. See July 1.
30
thursday
superhero costume party.
Come dressed as your favorite superhero and have fun at the library with treats, crafts, and games! 5 years old and younger. Free. 10:30am-11:15am. Katherine Tyra Branch Library. 16719 Clay Rd., Houston. www.hcpl.net.
free family thursday at the health museum. See July 2.
houston family magazine fun fest. Come out and enjoy face painting, fun activities under every tent, food trucks, inflatables, arts and crafts, door prizes, music, performances on stage, HFM swag bags and more! See July 26. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
tai chi by the reflecting pool. See July 2. blue willow bookshop storytime. See July 2. free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston.
nowexhibiting City public school students revealed through the works of art based on Asia Society’s fall 2014 exhibition, Nam June Paik: Becoming Robot. May-July 19 Museum Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11am-6pm and Sat.-Sun. 10am-6pm Admission: $5 (children 12 and under free) Asia Society Texas Center. 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston. 713-496-9901. www.asiasociety.org/ texas.
Houston Museum of African American Culture Leaving Mississippi: Reflections on Heroes and Folklore
Najee Dorsey’s Mississippi Delta roots emerge as he pays homage to a cast of colorful characters, historic events and conditions of Southern life, while creating commentary about current economic and social conditions in America. Apr. 25-July 12 Museum Hours: Wed., Fri., Sat. 11am-6pm, Thurs. 11am-8pm, Sun. 12pm-6pm Admission: Free Houston Museum of African American Culture. 4807 Caroline, Houston. www.hmaac.org.
Galveston Arts Center Connections/ Edmonton and Houston Prints by 12 artists from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and 12 artists from Houston presented in conjunction with Print Houston.
July 11-Aug. 16 Museum Hours: Tues.-Sat. 11am-5pm, Sun. 12pm-5pm, closed Monday. Admission: Free Galveston Arts Center. 2501 Market Street, Galveston. www.galveston artscenter.org.
See July 2.
july 2015 . houston family magazine . 51
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onthego
eat well, play well at the health museum.
Eat Well, Play Well encourages healthy living by teaching the science of making healthy food choices. See Now Exhibiting on page 48.
museum free family night: children’s museum of houston. See July 2. holocaust museum family free thursdays. See July 2.
table top game night. See July 2.
parkour at discovery green. See July 2.
31
friday
just between friends huge children’s sale.
Find all you need for your growing family at Just Between FriendsThe Woodlands / Conroe Fall Back to School Sales Event! All ages. $2 admission. 9am-7pm. Legends Sports Complex, 602 Pruitt Rd, Spring. www.thewoodlands.jbfsale.com.
abilities expo.
Where else can you discover abilityenhancing products and services, play a few adaptive sports, learn new dance moves, attend informative workshops and only scratch the surface of what Abilities Expo has to offer? All ages. Free. 11am-5pm. NRG Center. 8400 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.abilities.com.
25th houston international jazz festival.
The Houston International Jazz Festival presents the most exciting Jazz artists from around the world, bringing a diverse mix of styles to Houston. Adults. $20+. 5pm-2am. Music World Music Entertainment Complex. 1505 Hadley St., Houston. www.houstoninternational jazzfestival.com.
turtle patrol. See July 3.
getlisted!
To submit calendar listings, send information to calendar@ houstonfamilymagazine. com (no attachments please). Listings can also be mailed to Calendar, 5131 Braesvalley, Houston TX 77096; or faxed to 713-266-1915. Include the name of the event, date and time, venue address, short discription, appropriate age range, fee, phone number and web site address. Submissions are listed on a space-available basis. We’d love to include high-resolution photos, as well; please submit 300dpi-minimum, color jpegs (we cannot return). Deadline for the calendar is two months in advance of issue date. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
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july 2015 . houston family magazine . 53
hesaidshesaid the last word has video killed the family star? by sam and pam middleton
‘‘
pam is feeling overshadowed by the newest addition to the middleton family: a TV in the kids’ bedroom. sam sees the addition as an ally, not a threat.
‘‘
54 . houston family magazine . july 2015
TO: Sam FROM: Pam SUBJECT: TV in Bedroom Sam, I’m starting to think it was a mistake to put a TV in the girls’ bedroom. It’s initiated a complete paradigm shift in our daily, summer routine. It used to be that the house swirled with the kids’ comings and goings, up and down the stairs, in and out of the back door, with the periodic popping in to my office for random chats and requests to join them in some sort of play. But ever since “Sister Sony” made her debut, the house activity has dulled to a barely perceptible murmur of bare feet sneaking downstairs and into the kitchen for a stealth raiding of the pantry. The creaking of the bedroom door tells me the raiders have retreated back to their inner sanctum with their booty of snacks. Yes, it’s hotter than Hades outside, so I can’t really blame the kids for not wanting to jump rope in the driveway (come to think of it, I’m not sure they’ve ever jumped rope—
or even know how. Do kids still jump rope?) And, granted, I do get a lot more work done without the relentless pleas to join in on playing dolls or building a fort. It’s a relief, I suppose, to no longer be stressed by having to choose between making my deadlines and making some memories. But rather than reveling in hours of uninterrupted thought, I now I find myself distracted by the hollow silence of the house. I miss being invited to share in my kids’ childhoods. I guess I’m like that popular girl in high school who was burdened by every guy asking her to the dance, realizing only too late that the real burden weighed in when they all stopped asking her. But it’s hard to compete with a seemingly infinite supply of streaming Disney shows. And your recent brainstorm of connecting an Xbox up there means I’m now competing with Minecraft, too. On the other hand, I miss my girls. And it’s raining outside. I’m too distracted and sulky to work. So I’m going on a mission to recapture the kids by inviting them to some outdoor fun. Mincecraft’s got nothing on jumping puddles and racing paper boats down the gutters. TO: Pam FROM: Sam SUBJECT: TV in Bedroom Let me see if I understand this correctly. The house is quiet. The living room’s not getting destroyed. You’re not having to make lunch. Sorry, but I’m missing how this is a bad thing. Okay, so you’re experiencing a paradigm shift as a parent. That’s to be expected. But a paradigm shift doesn’t have to put an end to previously existing values. It just changes the think-
ing and planning around how those values are implemented. Right or wrong, the Pandora’s box of a TV in the bedroom has been opened. Let’s make the best of it. If you want to bond, how about inviting the kids to watch that “Flea Market Flip” show you like to watch when everyone’s asleep? Then take them out “junking” with $5 in hand and a challenge to find and flip the most hideous junk you can find (just remember, the point of flipping something is to then sell it for a profit, not cram it into the one, single uncluttered corner of the house). If you really miss the pitter-patter of feet going up and down the stairs, you could “invite” the kids to bring their laundry down. They could then sneak toward the washer and dryer, rotate the clothes, and retreat to their bedroom with their laundry booty. Sure, they’ll be watching TV, but they’ll be folding their clothes while they’re doing it. Pam, I would share your concerns if I thought the girls weren’t getting any exercise or outdoor time. But I think your sentimentality might be warping the reality of things just a little. The girls go swimming every day—part of that is thanks to your signing them up for swim team and your saintly vigilance in sitting through their practices and meets. And I do see the three of you continuing to bond—every time you teach them to sew, paint, or do yoga. It’s not Barbie-doll bonding, but it’s the next phase. And that means we’re all moving forward, as parents, as kids and as a family. And TV can be a part of that movement, especially when it’s paired with an evening of pizza, popcorn and “Dr. Who.” www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com