DallasChild

20 T H E M AG A Z I N E PA R E N T S L I V E BY I N DA L L A S CO U N T Y

J A N U A R Y 2 020

EVENTS TO KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR

HOW TO RAISE A BILINGUAL CHILD

MEET REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DALLAS’

KAMERON WESTCOTT

BUDDY SYSTEM HOW A DIAGNOSIS CREATED A STRONGER FRIENDSHIP

THE 2020

PRIVATE SCHOOL

LIST

IS YOUR KID SKILLED FOR LIFE?

WE TREAT SUPERHEROES EVERY DAY. KIDS RULE.

For kids, having fun is serious business. That’s why we’ve made it our job to get kids back to doing what they do best. Children’s HealthSM is 10,000 strong, united in making life better for all children. Why? Because KIDS RULE.

childrens.com

pages / J A N U A R Y

2020

DEPARTMENTS NOTED 7 Ready To Launch

How to help your child prepare for (gasp!) independence and adulthood

REAL MOMS 11 Mom Next Door / Kameron Westcott

Talking fame, family and philanthropy

with this “Real Housewife”

11 ABOVE // Real Housewives of Dallas’ Kameron Westcott and husband Court are raising their kids on and off camera.

18

FEATURES

PHOTOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY JAMES; PHOTOS COURTESY OF KRISTEN BEINKE PHOTOGRAPHY; ROBYN VOREL; ©ISTOCK; MICHAEL AINSWORTH

7

How and why immersive schools work, plus other resources for language learning and more ways to ring in 2020

When their friend was diagnosed with epilepsy, these children stepped up in a big way words Carrie Steingruber

22 The Private School List

KID CULTURE 37 Dual Lingos

47 Calendar / The Agenda

Events to honor Martin Luther King Jr.

18 The Lookouts

14 5 Things... / Call Sheet

Our Mom Next Door’s behind-the- scenes essentials 16 Routines / Rachael Kissell This McKinney mother of two and co- owner of RK Weddings and Events spends her day juggling work and kids

LOCAVORE 41 Influencer

44 Restaurants / Kids Eat Cheap

Free and discount deals for every day of the week

Not going the public school route?

Check out our list of options in Dallas and Collin counties compiled by Maya Butler

ON THE COVER

47 COLUMNS DallasChild: Elise, 10, of Carrollton

CollinChild: Kiptyn, 5, of Roxton

Photography: Cindy James / Alyssa Pizer Management Hair & Makeup Artist: Lisa Williams / Independent Artists Agency Art Direction/Styling: Heather Vance Devers

4 Hello / Rethinking Resolutions

Was the old you really so bad? words Heather Vance Devers

50 Confessions / Mom Truths

Runaway doughnuts and more LOL moments to start the year dfwchild.com / january 2020

3

NEW YEAR NEW HOME

hello / E D I T O R ’ S

NOTE

CURRENTLY IN 18+ COMMUNITIES With Top Rated School Systems

ABOVE // Heather Vance Devers in her home with her daughter, Betty, and son, Jude.

The Weekend Guide

Handpicked events for your family to enjoy every weekend. Subscribe at dfwchild.com/newsletter.

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I

rethinking resolutions

STRUGGLE WITH THE IDEA OF NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS.

I like the idea of striving to be better, of creating goals and an action plan to meet them. I even like the fresh start a new year brings, but the idea of “new year, new you” makes me kind of sad. That old you—she was doing the best she could at that moment. She was getting kiddos out the door mostly on time, with their school binders signed, a healthy lunch packed and clean, weather-appropriate clothing. She was keeping herself fed and energized—even if it meant standing in the kitchen grabbing the cold chicken nuggets off her kid’s plate. She was getting to the gym when she could fit it in (between the 1,469 other things on her to-do list that day). She was hustling to the best of her ability, because she had to keep things going. She didn’t get a sick day to take care of herself or sleep in on a Saturday, even though she was up with the baby every night that week.

I think if we set goals for 2020, we need to include this: giving ourselves—and everyone else, for that matter—a little more grace. Sure, make goals, make a plan, but also realize that life happens. And if you didn’t quite get back into your pre-baby jeans or launch that side hustle in the timeline you set, take a deep breath. Look at what you did accomplish. Maybe you didn’t get in your workout as often as you wanted, but you did make better food choices. And even if you didn’t get your new venture off the ground yet, perhaps you are learning a skill to make it happen. Didn’t read all the books you wanted to cross off your list?

Consider the playtime you had with the kids. So things are taking a little longer than you anticipated. Give yourself a high-five and keep moving toward your goal, instead of feeling like you’ve fallen behind. You were made to be exactly where you are—and it’s where you go from here that really matters. You’ve got this, Mama!

SHADDOCKHOMES.COM 4

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

Heather Vance Devers

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KORENA SINNETT

XO,

PUBLISHER/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joylyn Niebes

CREATIVE + CONTENT DIRECTOR

BEST

Heather Vance Devers

EDITORIAL

Executive Editor

Carrie Steingruber Managing Editor

Alexis Patterson

EVER

Freelance Editor

Maya Butler

Calendar Editor

Elizabeth Smith Digital Editor

2020

Sydney Blalock Ritchie Editorial Intern

Emily Yearwood

ART

Contributing Editorial Designer

Lesley Busby

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT LARGE Lauren Niebes

ADVERTISING

Account Executives

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We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. DallasChild and CollinChild are ©2020 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.

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FREE ADMISSION FROM 1 – 4 PM ON THE FOLLOWING SATURDAYS: January 25, 2020 March 28, 2020 May 9, 2020 July 25, 2020 September 12, 2020 October 24, 2020 Children will enjoy art projects with Artist DIY, Creative Arts Center, KidArt and Sour Grapes, as well as a Bookmarks scavenger hunt and walkSTEM tours. Free admission.

ArtROCKS! is a NorthPark Center arts and education initiative that fosters children’s understanding of the arts through hands-on projects inspired by some of the world’s most famous artists.

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AST MONTH, STUDENTS FILLED THE GYMNASIUM AT GRAPEVINE HIGH SCHOOL. It wasn’t a basketball game or a college fair. The kids were there to learn about insurance.

And other topics that typical teenagers don’t think about.

Brooke Bingham isn’t your typical teenager.

“Sitting in my AP classes, I hear a lot of my peers say, ‘When am I ever going to use this in real life?’” notes Brooke, a senior at GHS who will go on to Texas A&M University. “That’s why I did the financial literacy program.”

Yes, that big event that taught Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District students essentials for adulthood was the brainchild of, well, a child. OK, a young adult—two young adults, actually. Brooke and fellow senior Elnora Marshall have organized the fair for two years as a project for DECA, an international high school and collegiate organization.

A car dealer talked about how to buy a car. Brooke’s father explained insurance. (“They didn’t know what a deductible is,” he says. “No clue.”) A real estate agent discussed the home buying dfwchild.com / january 2020

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noted / R E A D Y

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Learn educational strategies that: • cultivate observation and concentration • enhance order and independence • promote social skills • foster lifelong learning • offer oral language development • improve gross and fine motor skills • teach respect for adults and children

process. After collecting stamps in “financial “Our biggest struggle is helping parents passports,” students had a chance to win gift see the value,” admits Burkhart, who taught cards or Dallas Mavericks tickets.

Human Services before transitioning to “It was a huge success,” says Kate Burkhart, hospitality and tourism instruction. “But a GCISD teacher and DECA advisor. “These students learn so much in regards to their kids are ahead of the game. GCISD is very foundation. They’re learning social and emosupportive of real-world skills.” tional skills, work ethic, conflict resolution.

Brooke began learning real-world skills I’m a huge fan of it.” inside the classroom back in eighth grade, when Burkhart recommends talking to your Burkhart taught her Human Services course. child’s school counselor to find out what “Human Services students learn everyFamily and Consumer Sciences offerings are thing from how to do laundry and sew a butavailable on their campus. ton to managing money and early childhood development,” says Burkhart.

MAKE CAMP Ah, early childhood development—the A variety of camps teach these lessons outside electronic baby unit. school. Tarrant County College’s College “Staying up all night over the weekend for Kids, for example, incorporates some life with my ‘baby’ was very eye-opening,” recalls skills offerings, such as pet care, quick cooking Brooke. “It was for a lot of my peers as well.” and “money and life” math. The Hockaday Not enough teenagers are getting those School’s co-ed Summer at Hockaday eye-opening, real-world lessons (electronic includes classes on subjects such as etiquette baby or otherwise). Cynthia Bing, director of and leadership. outreach services and mental health promo“Parents are increasingly looking for tion at the University of Texas at Arlington’s experiences that will give their child an Counseling and opportunity to develop Psychological life skills, while also Services Center, says providing an environNeed some easy-to-access life skills it’s not uncommon ment that encourages resources? Check out these online for freshmen to interpersonal skills to programs: arrive on campus be developed,” says needing assistance Melissa Curtis, director • Set to Go is an online guide for students, with time manageof auxiliary programs parents and teachers to break down life ment, stress manageat Hockaday. preparedness. From necessary skills to ment and budgeting. mental health, Set to Go covers five essenHOME & PLAY tial topics to help your teen transition to HAVE SOME CLASS Such an experience their next stage. settogo.org While many schools doesn’t even need to be offer Family and overly formal, Curtis • Financial responsibility can be an overConsumer Sciences reveals. “One of the whelming topic to discuss with kids. FDIC (the modern term best settings for life (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) for home ec), those skills discovery in the offers a free downloadable curriculum, courses are not young age group is the Money Smart for Young People. It will universal, accordplayground—where guide you through those conversations, ing to Jared Cappers whether you have a preschooler or a high friendships are formed, with FCCLA negotiations are school student. fdic.gov (Family, Career and made, coordination is Community Leaders of America) Texas. increased and imaginations blossom.”

“When schools are looking to trim, it And even if families have changed over doesn’t come from the core curriculum or time, parents still play a major role. athletics,” Cappers says. “There’s a belief that “The author of Screamfree Parenting Family and Consumer Sciences lessons are introduced me to the idea that the goal is to taught at home. But families aren’t the same ‘apprentice adults, not raise children,’” says as they were even 15 or 20 years ago.”

Dallas mom Jennifer Norris. Norris and her Or there are other areas of focus. Kids husband help their children—an 8-year-old are busy with honors classes, extracurricular son and 14-year-old triplets—put these skills lessons and club sports. So why make time to into practice. ensure your kids have basic skills?

“I (very reluctantly) let our housekeeper “It goes back to being a well-rounded go, and we rely on everyone … to do their graduate. Do you want your kid living at jobs,” says Norris. home with you forever?” asks Cappers, only That includes packing for travel, cleanhalf joking. ing, doing laundry and cooking. “I love the While Human Services has remained independence and confidence it is building,” fairly popular in GCISD, part of that may be says Norris. And there’s an added benefit: due to eighth graders getting a high school “Things get easier [for parents] when kids elective credit for the class. can do for themselves.”

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MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . .

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Pencil

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2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet

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Small piece of cardboard

Markers or paint

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4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape.

6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

real moms.

Kameron Westcott balances reality TV stardom with motherhood.

THE DISH

AGE 36 HAILS FROM Montecito,

PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTEN BEINKE PHOTOGRAPHY

California LIVES IN Highland Park SIGNIFICANT OTHER Court Westcott, venture capitalist ALMA MATER Southern Methodist University MOTTO “Blonde by birth, pink by choice” REAL HOUSEWIVES TAGLINE “Just because I look like Barbie, doesn’t mean you can play me.”

mom next door /

KAMERON WESTCOTT real housewife of dallas INTERVIEW NICOLE JORDAN

W

ITH THREE SEASONS OF THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DALLAS UNDER HER

(stylish) belt, Kameron Westcott is a bona fide reality TV star. A self-proclaimed Real Housewives “superfan,” she says it’s a distinction she never dreamed she’d receive. But she’s taking it in stride, using the newfound fame to further her philanthropic work and grow her pet supplies brand, SparkleDog. Along with her own superfans, Westcott is anxiously waiting to hear if the show will return for another season. In the meantime, she has plenty to keep her busy, with her company, a chock-full social calendar, a marriage and two children: Hilton, 9, and Cruise, 6. (Fun fact: Cruise was once on the cover of our magazine.) We caught up with Westcott to talk about life in front of the lens. → dfwchild.com / january 2020

11

NEXT DOOR

How do you balance running a business with filming and family? It’s extremely hard.

It’s all about prioritizing. I’m old-fashioned and keep a planner, where I write everything down. I carry a list in my purse and keep a backup on my phone.

You must have a great support system. My staff and husband help me. My nanny is like Mary Poppins. She may be at the tailor one minute and then at a soccer game or picking something up from Neiman’s for me the next. I also have an amazing assistant. It takes a village.

Do you struggle with guilt when you have to be away?

Mom guilt is so bad. It’s the worst. I think there needs to be a class to help moms with this constant guilt. I wish there was a place we could go to be reminded that it’s OK to take time away from the kids. I think a lot of moms forget that.

New Beginnings Start Here

Are you any easier on yourself now than you were as a new mom? I don’t think

We do everything we can to help get a kid back on track, whether that is in the family, social or school arena.

so. The difference is the kids are in school now, so I have a little more time to work on things. My little boy is in primer [the transitional year between kindergarten and first grade], which [gets out later and] has given me one more hour. I’m always hurrying to get everything done before I get in carpool line.

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What do you do for yourself to stay happy and centered?

always telling myself to enjoy the moment, try to be present and put the phone away.

It can be hard. It’s a problem for everyone and it’s something I’m working on.

You do a lot of philanthropic work. What are you focused on right now? I’m going to

be a presenter for Dec My Room [which creates healing spaces for hospitalized pediatric and young adult patients] this spring, which I’m super excited about. I’m also really involved with Susan G. Komen. I chaired the luncheon last year and raised around $400,000. I did it in honor of my girlfriend, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Seeing what they go through is just horrid. I ended up partnering with Susan G. Komen so that every bag of SparkleDog food sold gives back.

Why is giving back so important to you?

“I WISH THERE WAS A PLACE WE COULD GO TO BE REMINDED THAT IT’S OK TO TAKE TIME AWAY FROM THE KIDS. I THINK A LOT OF MOMS FORGET THAT.”

I don’t have time to go to the spa, so I have a masseuse come to my house because it gives me more time. I have everything come to me. I know it’s more expensive, but my time is valuable and I don’t have time to be sitting in traffic. For me, getting my nails done at my house works. I use [the app-based service] Cherry.

Are there any golden rules you live by? I’m

Not everyone is blessed with the resources we have.

It’s important to raise our children to understand how lucky we are.

How do you and your husband Court stay connected? We

have date night every week, no matter what. It’s required. We get massages together.

We go on walks on the weekends.

You’ve been in Dallas for a while now. Does it feel like home? I will always

have a place in California because that’s where I grew up, and I still consider myself a Cali girl.

But I’m definitely a Texan now.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about Dallas? No one is in

cowboy boots, unless you’re going to a western-themed party or down to Gilley’s. Dallas is a metropolitan city, not a western town.

Were you familiar with Real Housewives before joining the cast? I was the biggest fan

of all time. I was that mom at home breastfeeding and watching Housewives. It was my guilty pleasure.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLE MOLLETT

real moms / M O M

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ABOVE // KAMERON WESTCOTT HAS JOKINGLY REFERRED TO HER 9-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER AS HILTON “DRAMA” WESTCOTT ON INSTAGRAM.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTEN BEINKE PHOTOGRAPHY

How did you come to join the show? Cary Deuber was on the

cast. I met her through Junior League years ago and she put my name in a pile to be interviewed. When they first interviewed me, I thought I’d do it just for fun. I kept interviewing and somehow got a contract. I thought, Oh, no! I have to back out. Court’s family didn’t want me to do the show and I agreed. But you only live once and I didn’t want to have regrets. Well, here I am!

What has surprised you most about the experience? People recognizing me. I never thought that would happen.

How has your life changed? Other than people recognizing me, nothing has really changed. My life is the same. I’m just under a microscope, and if I mess up, everyone knows.

Was it difficult to learn to live so “out loud”? It’s not difficult for me because I’m pretty mellow. I’m not someone that’s going to hurt people’s feelings. I’m not the one that’s going to be running around naked. I know as long as I’m true to myself, that’s all that matters. Usually, my instincts are pretty on point.

Still, people are cruel. How do you avoid the negativity? It’s really hard to avoid. There are so many mean people on Twitter. Thankfully, I have fans that will protect me and put them in their place, but sometimes those fans are at lunch. It can get to you. I have to remember, people only see a slice of the moment and there’s so much more to the story.

What has watching yourself taught you? I do a lot of weird things like nodding my head too much. I also need to be more direct and stick up for myself more.

What keeps you grounded? Family time is what grounds me. My kids are my life. The show is just a slice of my life. The minute my children aren’t OK with the show, I will quit. They are my No. 1 priority.

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real moms / 5

THINGS …

INTERVIEW NICOLE JORDAN

CALL SHEET what this real housewife of Dallas can’t live without

FO R FA M I LY TIM E

2

“My favorite spa to get away to is The Spa at The Joule. I love eating lunch in the grotto in my robe.

You’ll also find me at Highland Park Village, shopping or eating. And I love to get facials at Blue Mermaid Spa; the ultrasound facial is great for

WE GO EVERYWHERE! WE GO TO A LOT OF PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS IN HIGHLAND PARK. WE LOVE RIDING BIKES AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND WE ALWAYS STOP AT WILD ABOUT HARRY’S FOR GREAT CUSTARD.

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tightening your face.”

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“My can’t-live-without boutiques are Hadleigh’s and Lela Rose. For the kids, I shop at The Tot and Jojo Mommy. They have the best kids fashion.” HADLEIGH’S // 70 Highland Park Village, Dallas; THE TOT // 4607 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas; thetot.com JOJO MOMMY // 4715 Lovers Lane, Dallas; jojomommy.com

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a tuesday in the life of

RACHAEL KISSEL Rachael Kissel is the “R” in RK Weddings & Events, the boutique wedding and event planning company she co-owns. Originally from the East Coast, Kissel lives in McKinney with her husband Brett, along with daughter Sophie, 10, son Ryan, 8, and their dog Tex. When she’s not serving as an event planner extraordinaire, you may find Kissel cheering on her kids from sports field sidelines, trying new restaurants or collecting stamps in her passport.

5

:15AM Hubby’s alarm goes off.

Sigh. Up comes our Pomeranian, Tex, into bed for “snuggle time.”

6:30AM My alarm goes off.

Snooze. I hear Ryan and Sophie shuffle through the kitchen trying to decide what’s for breakfast. I hit snooze again.

6:45AM The Keurig warms up—one of my favorite sounds. Sweet Sophie makes me coffee every morning.

6:55AM One last snuggle with Tex while I check emails. With clients all over the world, emails come in all day … and night. Time to get up.

7:03AM The kids are already fighting—something about whose turn it is to let the dog out.

Sophie loses and lets Tex outside.

7:06AM I pack the kids’ lunches. Ryan has the same thing every day—PB&J, frozen yogurt and applesauce.

7:15AM I run Ryan through his morning checklist. He always forgets to pack a snack so he runs back into the pantry. He notices his Halloween candy stash is low and asks me if I know anything about it.

7:20AM In my PJs, bedhead and with coffee—we are on the way to school.

7:23AM We get to school, both kids hop out and scream “Bye Mom!” I give a wave to the

crossing guard as I leave for home.

7:26AM Time for a fresh cup of coffee before heading into my home office.

7:55AM After urgent emails, I text Brett “Good Morning!” for our daily Bitmoji exchange—mine was me with a huge cup of coffee.

8:30AM My first conference call starts—a corporate client decided to go to Greece for their annual trip. I’m tasked to plan a five-day trip to the Greek Islands for 120 guests. No problem.

9:30AM Working on an event budget that was due yesterday. I post some wedding pics from my favorite photographer on our Instagram.

10AM Usually, Karen (my business partner) has her first cup of coffee by now, so it’s a good time to call—she is NOT a morning person at all.

10:37AM The phone rings—it’s a client.

She wants me to find a “priceless experience” for her client event in Dallas.

12:10PM Still in my PJs, I never ate breakfast and now it’s lunch. I make myself a quick snack and sneak more of Ryan’s Halloween candy (shhh!).

1:15PM Time to run to the downtown office (after changing!) and drop off some champagne. It’s a MUST when we bring clients into the office!

1:45PM I arrive at the office and find Karen. We decide to run around the corner for coffee—this place puts our logo on the foam of our lattes. So cool! We scour Pinterest for inspiration pics with a cozy winter theme for our new bride.

2:36PM I give K a hug and jet to my car. Off to school while taking a few inquiry calls (with wireless headphones, of course!).

3:02PM Kids come running out, hop in the car and immediately fight for talk time and attention.

3:06PM We are home—Tex is happy. Sophie runs to her room, book in hand, and Ryan runs outside with his soccer ball. I think about dinner plans before a call with a corporate client.

3:30PM Karen calls me to tell me our company just won “Best of” on The Knot and Wedding Wire!

4:45PM The kids come into the office, bored. I send them outside while I answer more emails and finish that budget.

5:20PM Brett walks through the door, sneaks a kiss and sits on the floor to greet Tex. The kids jump all over him and I ask him if he’s ready for a glass of wine.

5:26PM Dinner plans. Right … Leftovers?

Food delivery? A restaurant? Food delivery wins—we order from our favorite

Diaries are penned by moms (and dads) in the Dallas/Collin areas. The authors volunteer to share a day of their choosing and are not paid or endorsed by DFWChild. Send your diary to editorial@dfwchild.com. All submissions are subject to editing and may be cut for space.

16

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHAEL KISSEL

real moms / R O U T I N E S

the fine

print

FAVORITE INDULGENCE Ben & Jerry’s ice cream FAVORITE MOVIE Bridesmaids FAVORITE DATE NIGHT SPOT Legacy West in Plano BEVERAGE OF CHOICE Deep Eddy Ruby Red with Sprite and a lime BEAUTY PRODUCT SHE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Aveda’s Hand Relief BIGGEST PET PEEVE When people don’t know how to behave properly at a four-way stop. WHAT SHE DOES WHEN LIFE GETS STRESSFUL I hide in my pantry and eat dark chocolate. CELEBRITY MOM SHE ADMIRES Reese Witherspoon DREAM JOB AS A KID Actress and fashion designer SELF-CARE SPOT IN DFW Pavitra Organic Day Spa in McKinney HOW SHE AND HER HUSBAND MET Match.com WHY SHE CHOSE WHERE SHE LIVES We loved McKinney’s downtown area and familyfocused neighborhoods HABIT SHE CAN’T QUIT My juice bar obsession IF SHE HAD TO CHANGE CAREERS, SHE’D BE A Florist, hands down FAVORITE CHEAP MEAL TO FEED THE KIDS Fuzzy’s Taco Shop BEST VACATION Costa Rica without the kiddos

COLLIN

D E C E M B E R 2019

MANAGING HOLIDAY

PHOTO COURTESY OF ©ISTOCK; ILLUSTRATION BY ARIANA LEYVA

FAMILY DRAMA

Chinese restaurant.

6:05PM Our food arrives. We gather around the table, start grabbing takeout containers and talk about our days.

6:07PM Tex starts barking at his bowl. I get up and get him his food.

7PM Showers done, teeth brushed— kids are in their rooms for quiet time.

7:30PM Quick call. One of my brides has a long to-do list but we are well ahead of schedule!

8PM Ryan and I read the same Dog Man book again and then it’s lights out.

Brett finishes up with Sophie. We meet in the hallway and high-five.

8:05PM I head back into my office, tweak our website and scroll though social media.

9:55PM Head into bed and watch the latest episode of Family Guy with Brett.

He starts snoring within 10 minutes.

Time for 90 Day Fiancé—don’t judge!

10:35PM I feel my eyes closing. I turn the TV off and rest up for tomorrow.

22 EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH

HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD

MEET THE RAMBLING REDHEAD JENNIFER TODRYK

+

WHERE TO BE MERRY IN FREDERICKSBURG

22 D E C E M B E R 2019

MANAGING HOLIDAY

FAMILY DRAMA

EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH

HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD

MEET THE RAMBLING REDHEAD JENNIFER TODRYK

MOMMY BURNOUT

HERE’S HOW TO FIX IT

+

WHERE TO BE MERRY IN FREDERICKSBURG

MOMMY BURNOUT

HERE’S HOW TO FIX IT

DON’T WANT TO MISS THE NEXT ISSUE? GET IT DELIVERED TO YOUR MAILBOX. Visit dfwchild.com to sign up for free home delivery.

dfwchild.com / january 2020

17

LOOK OUTS When Samu was diagnosed with epilepsy, his friends stepped up to watch out for him at school. It’s a responsibility that’s changed the way they see the world.

WORDS CARRIE STEINGRUBER

18

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

HUNDREDS

©ISTOCK

OF KIDS WERE ON THEIR FEET, THEIR CLAPS AND SCREAMS MULTIPLYING IN THE REVERB CHAMBER THAT IS THEIR TILED SCHOOL CAFETERIA. It was assembly day at Light Farms Elementary in Celina, and the tables were folded and pushed against the walls to make room for rows of elementary students buzzing with Friday energy.

This was their favorite part of every assembly: the teacher challenge. Teachers from each grade participate in some kind of silly competition—like transporting M&M’s using a straw and no hands— while students cheer them on.

“It was pret-ty loud,” says Luke Zihlman, who was in second grade at the time. (He’s now in fourth.) He too was caught up in the fervor, but his view was obscured by the kids in front of him.

“After I realized I was too short to see, I looked over at the other students to see if I could get a better view, and I saw Samu.”

Samu (pronounced “shah-mu”) Miller—a classmate and soccer teammate—was sitting six or seven kids away from Luke that afternoon. When Luke glanced in his direction, Samu was “huddled up, covering his ears,” Luke says. “I suddenly remember— Samu has epilepsy. Loud sounds can make him have a seizure.”

Samu wasn’t having an actual seizure, but he was alarmingly close. He doesn’t recall much from those moments at the assembly—just the screaming. “It felt like my eardrums were bursting with blood,” Samu says. “I was very weak, and I couldn’t talk.”

As Samu fiercely pressed his hands to his ears, Luke pushed past other kids to reach his friend’s side.

Samu didn’t respond; he didn’t even know someone was there. After trying unsuccessfully to help him to

his feet, Luke went to their teacher for help. She took Samu to the nurse, and Luke was left to wonder—and worry—about his friend as the teacher challenge and the cheering carried on around him.

“I was scared for Samu,” Luke says. “I remember a bunch of people asking me, ‘Why are you crying? Why are you crying?’ I’m like, ‘’Cause my friend is hurt!’”

Most of the other students didn’t notice Samu’s near-seizure and exit. “They were more focused on who would win the teacher challenge than others around them,” Luke says.

His tone doesn’t suggest an indictment, just an observation. But Samu’s friends are different.

As his self-appointed protectors, they view the school day (and every day) with a keener eye. Their awareness is sharpened, and they recognize the hidden dangers in seemingly innocuous events— assemblies, morning announcements, picture day.

After Samu was first diagnosed, one of his friends accompanied him on every trip to the bathroom or nurse’s office. During fire drills, his friends watch for warning signs of a seizure as they all file outside. They answer questions about epilepsy from curious students. And of course, they know what to do if Samu has a seizure.

That’s a big responsibility for elementary kids, but it’s one they’re proud of, insists Brayden Vorel, Samu’s neighbor and best friend.

“It made me feel good that I have someone to hang out with, play with, but also be very protective,” Brayden says. “I feel like I’ve grown to it, like it feels normal to do this for him.”→ dfwchild.com / january 2020

19

FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE

ON ALERT

Samu and Brayden call themselves “step twin brothers” for a reason. There’s a physical resemblance: Both have blond hair and a smattering of freckles. They also bicker like siblings.

Interviewing them together is a case study in one step forward, two steps back—each step punctuated with laughter and shoving.

Brayden calmly tries to explain their friendship: “Sometimes we get into arguments 20

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

“SEEING HOW THEY ARE TOGETHER AND LOOKING OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER, IT’S VERY INSPIRING, NOT JUST FOR US AS ADULTS BUT I THINK FOR OTHER KIDS TOO, BECAUSE THEY’RE SETTING AN EXAMPLE OF ACCEPTANCE.” —HALEY STELLY ABOVE // THE SELF-PROCLAIMED "STEP TWIN BROTHERS" (BRAYDEN VOREL, LEFT, AND SAMU MILLER) HAVE GROWN CLOSER SINCE SAMU'S DIAGNOSIS.

or disagree—” “We always do, Mister!” Samu interrupts, giggling.

Brayden gives me a look like he’s been in the trenches with a rebellious teenager. He sighs with mock exasperation, “What am I gonna do with you?”

The boys were friends before Samu’s epilepsy diagnosis, but Brayden believes that being in the same class for two years has cemented their bond.

“I think Samu has became [sic] a closer friend than before to me, and a friend that I should be more aware of or protective on,” he says. “Ever since I met him when I moved here, it’s been like we’re friends, we know each other, but now it’s like we’re very close friends.”

School feels different now too, Brayden says. He pays attention to things that he used to disregard as routine, or fail to notice at all.

Whether identifying parts of speech in the classroom or playing football at recess, he is on alert for Samu’s potential triggers: loud sounds and flashing lights.

Brayden also picks up clues to Samu’s wellbeing in his behavior—walking instead of running during P.E., for instance, could signal he’s not feeling well.

Besides morning announcements (the teacher turns down the volume for Samu), fire drills are the primary hazard—unlike assemblies, the noise is heard throughout the building, and there is value to Samu’s participation. As the

alarm blares, Brayden looks to his friend to be sure Samu is covering his ears; if Brayden is close enough, he’ll cover Samu’s ears himself.

“Brayden takes this pretty seriously,” says Robyn Vorel, Brayden’s mom. “He feels like, ‘OK, they want me to make sure he’s OK at school, so it is my job to make sure that he’s OK at school.’ And I was like, ‘Does that make you feel too responsible?’ He goes, ‘No, I kind of like it. I mean, I’m Samu’s buddy. We’re like brothers.’ I think he’s actually taking this and actually owning it. He’s really wanting to be that person.”

Brayden and Samu’s fourth grade teacher, Morgan Lorenzini, says that when she was still getting to know the boys at the beginning of the school year, Brayden would remind her that Samu needed to go to the office during assemblies, and would volunteer to go get him afterward. “He’s always just looking out for him,” she says.

That desire to look out for each other can be seen among students in other schools as well.

Elementary-age kids “naturally want to help,” says Patty Bustamante, executive director of specialized learning services at Arlington ISD. She works with students in her district who have epilepsy, type 1 diabetes and other needs, and says their friends and classmates consider it a privilege to be a buddy. At that age, she adds, they view the world (and therefore their responsibilities) in black and white. “Everything is so absolute—it’s all or nothing,” she says. “They take it very seriously.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBYN VOREL

Let’s be clear: Prosper Independent School District isn’t entrusting a student’s life solely to other 9- and 10-year-olds. Principal Haley Stelly assures me that the adults on campus are looking out for Samu too, and he has other official accommodations, like being allowed to read in the office during school assemblies.

(That assembly was the last one he attended.)

She explains that students with disabilities like epilepsy are evaluated case by case in partnership with families and caregivers; if Samu needed a service dog or an adult by his side all day, that would be arranged.

Still, teachers and the school nurse may be Samu’s safety net, but his friends see themselves as his first line of defense.

Kata Miller-Massányi, Samu’s mom, reveals that having a buddy with him is actually part of her son’s 504 plan, the document that outlines his accommodations. Being a buddy was a critical role in the early days especially. Samu was afraid of passing out alone—on the bathroom floor, no less.

For Samu and his friends, joint bathroom trips aren’t embarrassing; they’re matter of fact, just like his epilepsy. “If he has a seizure, and then there’s no one in the bathroom, he would be helpless,” Brayden explains.

He doesn’t treat Samu as a victim, and Samu certainly appreciates the backup. Two summers ago, when the third grade class lists came out and Miller-Massányi realized Samu didn’t have a close friend in his room, she rang up Principal Stelly. Besides wanting a buddy to have an extra eye on him, Samu was taking an anti-seizure medication that made him extremely depressed. “‘We need Brayden,’” Miller-Massányi recalls saying. “‘You don’t understand how much we need him.’”

Stelly moved Samu to Brayden’s class and made sure the two stayed together in fourth grade too. Even though Samu’s last seizure was in November 2018 and his “buddy system” has become more lax—meaning he can fly solo to the nurse’s office and the bathroom—he told his mom he still wanted Brayden there for support; in fact, the break from seizures has Samu increasingly anxious that the next one must be right around the corner.

But he’s already got a long-term plan.

“We’re gonna be in the same class in college, and we’re gonna work at the same place,” Samu says.

Indeed, Brayden is even critical of his job performance. “Sometimes I can be attracted to something and then completely forget about the people around me,” he says, citing the teacher challenge as an example. Then when the sound or the lights intensify, he says, the risk suddenly flashes into his mind again.

He and Luke both admit to worrying that something might happen if they let their guard down, or if they’re away from Samu. Even though Luke hasn’t been in the same class as Samu since second grade, he still thinks about his friend during fire drills. “I will normally look around for Samu, just to see if he’s OK,” he reveals when I talk to all three boys together.

Samu turns to him in surprise. “Wait, literally? Even if we’re in separate classes?” Luke nods, but Samu’s still skeptical. “You literally do?”

“Yeah,” Luke confirms, “I look around the hallway, ’cause there’s like crowds of people, so I literally look around the hallway just to see if you’re OK.”

THE RIGHT THING

When I ask the boys about their favorite parts of the school day, Luke says math because he likes “the way it works.” Brayden lists recess and lunch (shocker) but also grammar and cultural studies.

This year, Texas history is on the docket. “You get to learn stuff that you never would learn if you weren’t there at that time,” he explains.

Because he and Luke are here, now, watching out for their friend, they’re getting an education that’s beyond the scope of any STAAR test.

“Who would’ve thought that by 8 you’ll know what to do when you see someone having a seizure?” Miller-Massányi says.

She’s done her part to educate her son’s friends and classmates—as a professional dog trainer, she taught one of the family pups, Dio, to nudge Samu’s head to the side if he’s on the ground and shaking (a measure that ensures he can breathe). She brought Dio to Samu’s second grade class to demonstrate how his peers should respond if they see Samu having a seizure.

Kids latch on to such real-life skills, Bustamante says. Unlike some school subjects that seem less than useful right now, learning how to care for a friend is personal and immediately relevant. It’s knowledge they can put into practice right away and see their world change as a result.

“They’re understanding how their decisions, their behaviors impact the world around them and change the world for the better,” Bustamante says.

Luke and Brayden agree that they’ve become more aware not just of Samu but of people in general, some of whom might have invisible challenges.

“I know that some people have disorders, and they need help with their disorders,” Luke says. “And I know that I don’t have a disorder, so I can be one of those people who help them.

So I will tend to look around when I hear a loud

sound or I see a blinking light.”

“I think it’s the awareness to think of any kid at this point,” Brayden’s mom says. “If someone looks like they’re in stress—head down, covered ears, whatever it may be—then they may know, ‘Oh, OK, so you’re reacting in some way because something’s bothering you.

Let me go help or get help.’”

Tyson Zihlman, Luke’s dad, sums it up: “They’re learning to do the right thing.”

While Principal Stelly obviously wouldn’t wish epilepsy on her students, she says Samu’s condition paved a fast track for him and his friends to broaden their awareness and acceptance of others.

“Especially at a young age, kids are very ego-centric,” she explains, “so it [normally] takes a while for them to increase their own selfawareness of what’s going on with them, and then in turn learning how they can relate and connect to others.”

“It’s the same reason that parents in our community bring their children up to the hospital to donate toys for other kids here, to help them realize, ‘OK, it’s not all about you; there are other people to think about too,’” says Michelle McLemore, a certified child life specialist at Children’s Medical Center Plano.

Child life specialists often visit schools of kids with chronic conditions and illnesses to help classmates understand the diagnosis and how to be a good friend to a child like Samu, whose epilepsy was diagnosed at Children’s Health.

In McLemore’s experience, as kids learn about their peers with differences, their egocentricity is tempered by empathy. As much as kids have the capacity for bullying and meanness, they also have an immense capacity for acceptance, especially when equipped with knowledge. Samu has candidly shared his epilepsy diagnosis with his friends, and they in turn have accepted it as just another part of their school day, their reality.

“Looking at the situation and seeing how they are together and looking out for one another, it’s very inspiring,” Stelly says, “not just for us as adults but I think for other kids too, because they’re setting an example of acceptance and creating a sense of belonging for every child.”

SHARE THE LOAD

Of course Samu knows his own seizure triggers. He recognizes when sounds are too loud or he’s too hot or cold. Miller-Massányi accepts the necessity of Samu’s self-policing; it is a responsibility that came part and parcel with his diagnosis. But life lessons notwithstanding, she sometimes regrets that his friends have assumed the same responsibility. When I interview the boys at her home, it is the first time she’s heard Luke talk about the assembly. She works hard to restrain her emotions as Luke speaks about his concern for Samu.

“Sometimes I feel guilty for that,” she later

admits, “that he’s in that position where— Brayden too—like, ‘I think about him, I’m worried about him.’

“The teachers tell me the same thing, like, ‘Oh, we’re going to watch out for him,’” she continues. “Yeah, I’m expecting you to do that, but not a 7- and 8-year-old. They’re just … they’re so young.”

It’s both poignant and heartening to realize the weight that young kids can—and sometimes are forced to—carry.

McLemore believes it’s important for other children to understand their role in a situation like this. “If they feel like it’s their job, we need to remind them that there are adults—parents, medical staff and teachers—who are taking care of the child’s medical needs, so they can focus on being a supportive friend,” she says.

Samu is fortunate to have multiple supportive friends. So when Luke found out he wouldn’t be in Samu’s third grade class, he was only uneasy at first.

“I was a little scared,” he says, “but then when I saw him with Brayden, I was like, ‘OK, Brayden’s his friend. He knows he’s got epilepsy.

I’m sure he should watch out for him … but I’ll still watch out for him.’”

Again, Samu seems surprised and grateful. He smiles at Luke. “You’re good,” he says quietly.

B U D DY S Y S T E M Samu’s 504 plan specifies that he be allowed to have a buddy with him if needed, but it doesn’t name a particular student. “We don’t want any child to feel uncomfortable with a situation that they’re put in, which is why we don’t specifically say, ‘Oh, this is your role,’” Principal Haley Stelly explains.

We were curious: Is this a typical accommodation for students with needs like epilepsy?

Fort Worth ISD spokesperson Clint Bond says this kind of buddy system is not a practice in his district. “Any student assistance provided would be provided by a District employee and would be influenced by many factors including doctor’s statement(s), student’s condition, etc.,” he wrote in an email.

In Arlington ISD, students may be asked to help classmates with conditions like epilepsy depending on the need and the kids’ ages— typically fourth or fifth grade and older. Patty Bustamante, AISD’s executive director of specialized learning services, says they choose buddies carefully and often provide an orientation to the class, much like Samu’s mother did for his friends and second grade classmates.

Bustamante adds that teachers may institute a class-wide buddy system so that everyone has to go in pairs. (Samu’s second grade teacher, Melissa Patterson, did just that: She started a buddy system in her class thanks to Samu; two years later, her students still go everywhere in pairs.)

dfwchild.com / january 2020

21

PRIVATE

THE

2020

Our comprehensive guide to Dallas private schools

SH YE A ES R TA B

LI

E IT W EB S

Y CI T

RE SS D AD

SC H

O

O

L

ED

C O M P I L E D B Y M AYA B U T L E R

Acton Academy Lakewood

2443 Abrams Road

Dallas

actonlakewood.org

2019

Acton Academy McKinney

192 Industrial Blvd.

McKinney

actonmckinney.org

2019

Akiba Academy

12324 Merit Drive

Dallas

akibaacademy.org

1962

Alcuin School

6144 Churchill Way

Dallas

alcuinschool.org

1964

All Saints Catholic School

7777 Osage Plaza Parkway

Dallas

allsaintsprek8.org

1998

Ann & Nate Levine Academy

18011 Hillcrest Road

Dallas

levineacademy.org

1979

Bending Oaks High School

11884 Greenville Ave.

Dallas

bendingoaks.com

1985

Bethany Christian School

3300 W. Parker Road

Plano

planochristianschool.com

1979

Bishop Dunne Catholic School

3900 Rugged Drive

Dallas

bdcs.org

1960

Bishop Lynch High School

9750 Ferguson Road

Dallas

bishoplynch.org

1963

Bridge Builder Academy

1221 W. Campbell Road, Suite 209

Richardson

bridgebuilderacademy.com

2006

Brighter Horizons Academy

3145 Medical Plaza Drive

Garland

bhaprep.org

1989

Calvary Lutheran School

9807 Church Road

Dallas

calvarydallas.org/school

1972

The Cambridge School of Dallas

9330 N. Central Expressway

Dallas

cambridgedallas.org

2001

Campbell Christian Academy

6623 Villa Road

Dallas

campbellchristianacademy.com

1984

Canterbury Collegiate Academy

1708 N. Westmoreland Road

DeSoto

theccacademy.org

1992

The Children's Workshop

1409 14th St.

Plano

cwsplano.com

1972

Choices Leadership Academy

18106 Marsh Lane

Dallas

choicesleadership.org

2005

Christ the King Catholic School

4100 Colgate Ave.

Dallas

cks.org

1947

Coram Deo Academy, Dallas Campus

7777 LBJ Freeway

Dallas

coramdeoacademy.org

2006

Coram Deo Academy

9645 Independence Parkway

Plano

coramdeoacademy.org

2004

Cornerstone Christian Academy

808 S. College St.

McKinney

ccawarriors.com

2004

The Covenant School

7300 Valley View Lane

Dallas

covenantdallas.com

1993

Dallas Academy

950 Tiffany Way

Dallas

dallas-academy.com

1965

Dallas Christian Academy

4025 N. Central Expressway

Dallas

dallaschristianacademy.org

1952

Dallas Christian School

1515 Republic Parkway

Mesquite

dallaschristian.com

1957

Dallas International School

6039 Churchill Way

Dallas

dallasinternationalschool.org

1991

Dallas Lutheran School

8494 Stults Road

Dallas

dallaslutheranschool.com

1975

DeSoto Private School

301 E. Beltline Road

DeSoto

desotoprivate.com

1972

The Episcopal School of Dallas

4100 Merrell Road

Dallas

esdallas.org

1974

Fairhill School

16150 Preston Road

Dallas

fairhill.org

1971

Faith Lutheran School

1701 E Park Blvd.

Plano

flsplano.org

1971

Fellowship Collegiate Academy

1821 W. Camp Wisdom Road

Dallas

thefcacademy.org

1984

Firewheel Christian Academy

5500 Lavon Drive

Garland

firewheelca.org

1981

First Baptist Academy

7898 Samuell Blvd.

Dallas

fbacademy.com

1972

Frisco Montessori Academy

8890 Meadow Hill Drive

Frisco

friscomontessori.com

1998

The Fulton School

1626 Smirl Drive

Heath

thefultonschool.com

1987

22

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

SCHOOL LIST AI SC D H O O FF LA ER R TO ED SHI PS TA L EN RO LL U N M IF EN O T RM S AV G. CL AS S SI ZE EL EM TE E AC NT H AR ER Y RA STU TI DE O N AC T/ CR ED IT AT IO N

FI

N

AN

CI AL

TU N U AL AN

ES GR AD

RE L AF IG FI IOU LI S AT IO

N

IT

IO

N

So, you’re considering the private school route for your child. The good news: You’ve got choices! The bad news: You’ve got choices … That’s why we compile this chart every year—to help you narrow the search based on your priorities, whether that’s location, religious affiliation or price tag.

None

Preschool–5

$1,870–$8,580

No

No

36

No

18

18-to-1

IALDS

None

Pre-K–7

$5,450–$7,200

No

No

30

No

N/A

N/A

IALDS

Jewish

Preschool–8

$10,000–$24,000

Yes

No

350

Yes

16

11-to-1

NAEYC, Cognia

None

Preschool–12

$25,900–$29,400

Yes

No

600

No

24

13-to-1

ISAS, TAAPS, TANS, TEPSAC

Catholic

Preschool–8

$8,421

Yes

No

293

Yes

15

10-to-1

Cognia, NCEA, TCCB ED

Jewish

Preschool–8

$6,250–$26,850

Yes

No

435

Yes

12

4-to-1

Cognia, TANS, Prizmah

None

8–12

$22,000

Yes

Yes

50

No

6

N/A

Cognia

Baptist

Preschool–12

$5,000

No

No

90

No

15

12-to-1

ACTS, Cognia, TANS, TEPSAC

Catholic

6–12

$13,995–$17,720

Yes

Yes

420

Yes

20

6-to-1

Cognia, NCEA, TCCB ED

Catholic

9–12

$18,000

Yes

Yes

1,010

Yes

13

N/A

Cognia, NCEA, TCCB ED

None

K–12

Varies

Yes

Yes

40

No

1

1-to-1

Cognia, TEPSAC, NCAA

Islamic

Preschool–12

$7,600–$8,000

Yes

No

820

Yes

20

10-to-1

Cognia, TAAPS

Lutheran

Pre-K–8

$3,300–$6,650

Yes

No

96

Yes

9

16-to-1

TAAPS

Christian

5–12

$18,900–$23,100

Yes

Yes

108

Yes

11

6-to-1

Cognia

Christian

Preschool–6

$5,000–$6,000

No

No

80

Yes

7

7-to-1

None

Christian

Preschool–12

$8,000–$12,000

Yes

Yes

115

Yes

12

12-to-1

ACSI

None

Preschool–5

$2,025–$5,850

No

No

32

No

8–10

8-to-1

None

None

Pre-K–6

$7,000

Yes

Yes

100

Yes

10

10-to-1

Cognia, TANS

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$9,000–$12,700

Yes

No

490

Yes

20–25

12-to-1

NCEA, TCCB ED

Christian

Pre-K–9

$4,505–$13,000

Yes

No

168

Yes

13

12-to-1

Cognia

Christian

Pre-K–12

$4,505–$8,030

Yes

No

493

Yes

13

12-to-1

Cognia

None

K–12

$4,400–$6,900

Yes

Yes

361

Yes

16–24

18-to-1

ACSI

Christian

K–12

$8,000–$20,500

Yes

No

653

Yes

12

9-to-1

ACCS, ACSI, TAAPS

None

1–12

$16,000–$23,000

Yes

Yes

175

Yes

6

6-to-1

Cognia

Adventist

Preschool–12

$4,150–$6,000

Yes

Yes

137

Yes

10–15

10–15-to-1

AAA, TEPSAC, NCPSA

Church of Christ

Preschool–12

$5,000–$18,500

Yes

No

525

Yes

18

16-to-1

Cognia, NCSA

None

Preschool–12

$16,650–$24,000

Yes

Yes

700

Yes

15

15-to-1

IB, ISAS, MLF, TAAPS

Lutheran

7–12

$13,500–$15,500

Yes

No

175

Yes

14

8-to-1

NLSA, TEPSAC

None

Preschool–6

$5,500–$6,105

No

No

225

Yes

10

10-to-1

Cognia

Episcopal

Preschool–12

$17,300–$30,400

Yes

Yes

1,148

Yes

16

7-to-1

ISAS, TACAC, NAIS

None

1–12

$20,300–$20,900

Yes

No

165

Yes

8

6-to-1

Cognia

Lutheran

Preschool–12

$3,800–$10,000

Yes

No

140

Yes

10

10-to-1

NLSA, CCLE

Christian

Preschool–8

$5,720–$7,764

Yes

Yes

435

Yes

12–15

12-to-1

ACSI, Cognia, NCSA

Assembly of God

Preschool–9

$3,200–$8,000

No

No

250

Yes

15

15-to-1

ACSI

Christian

Pre-K–12

$10,650–$14,650

Yes

Yes

247

Yes

12

12-to-1

ACTABS, Cognia

None

Preschool–8

$4,301

No

No

203

Yes

18–24

10-to-1

AMS

None

Preschool–4

$9,500

No

Yes

60

Yes

12–15

12–15-to-1

TAAPS

dfwchild.com / january 2020

23

H YE ES AR TA BL

IS

E IT W EB S

Y CI T

RE SS D AD

SC H

O O L

ED

THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST

Fusion Academy

8128 Park Lane

Dallas

fusionacademy.com

1989

Fusion Academy Plano

2400 Dallas Parkway

Plano

fusionacademy.com

1989

Garland Christian Academy

1516 Lavon Drive

Garland

garlandchristian.com

1972

Good Shepherd Catholic School

214 S Garland Ave.

Garland

gscschool.org

1954

Good Shepherd Episcopal School

11110 Midway Road

Dallas

gsesdallas.org

1959

Grace Academy of Dallas

11306A Inwood Road

Dallas

graceacademy.com

1974

Great Lakes Academy

6000 Custer Road

Plano

greatlakesacademy.com

1998

Greenhill School

4141 Spring Valley Road

Addison

greenhill.org

1950

The Guthrie School

598 Old Custer Road

Allen

guthrieschool.com

2012

Heritage Christian Academy

1408 S. Goliad St.

Rockwall

hcarockwall.org

1995

Highlander School

9120 Plano Road

Dallas

highlanderschool.com

1966

Hillier School

3821 University Blvd.

Dallas

hillierschool.org

1968

The Hockaday School

11600 Welch Road

Dallas

hockaday.org

1913

Holy Trinity

3815 Oak Lawn Ave.

Dallas

htcsdallas.org

1914

IANT Quranic Academy

840 Abrams Road

Richardson

myiqa.org

2002

Immaculate Conception School

400 NE 17th St.

Grand Prairie

school.icgrandprairie.org

1952

Inspired Learning Academy

340 Country Club Road

Fairview

inspiredlearningacademy.org

2017

Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

12345 Inwood Road

Dallas

jesuitdallas.org

1942

John Paul II High School

900 Coit Road

Plano

johnpauliihs.org

2005

The Kessler School

1215 Turner Ave.

Dallas

thekesslerschool.com

1999

Lakehill Preparatory School

2720 Hillside Drive

Dallas

lakehillprep.org

1971

Lakeside Montessori Academy

4995 Westport Drive

The Colony

dfwmontessori.com

2003

Lakewood Montessori School

6464 E. Lovers Lane

Dallas

lmschool.org

1999

The Lamplighter School

11611 Inwood Road

Dallas

thelamplighterschool.org

1953

Legacy Christian Academy

5000 Academy Drive

Frisco

legacyca.com

1999

Lucas Christian Academy

505 W. Lucas Road

Lucas

lucaschristianacademy.com

1999

Mary Immaculate School

14032 Dennis Lane

Farmers Branch

mischool.org

1959

McKinney Christian Academy

3601 Bois D'Arc Road

McKinney

mckinneychristian.org

1992

Merit Academy

2825 Valley View Lane, Suite 100

Farmers Branch

meritacademytx.org

2009

Merrywood School

807 S. Cockrell Hill Road

Duncanville

merrywoodschoolduncanville.com

1960

Mesorah High School

12712 Park Central Drive, Suite B190

Dallas

mesorahhighschool.org

2000

Mount St. Michael Catholic School

4500 W. Davis St.

Dallas

msmcatholic.org

1986

New Hope Christian Academy

1501 H Ave.

Plano

explorenewhope.org

2017

North Dallas Adventist Academy

2800 Custer Parkway

Richardson

ndaacademy.org

1984

North Texas Performing Arts Academy

6121 W. Park Blvd., Suite B216

Plano

northtexasperformingarts.org/academy

2018

Notre Dame School of Dallas

2018 Allen St.

Dallas

notredameschool.org

1963

Oak Hill Academy

9407 Midway Road

Dallas

oakhillacademy.org

1987

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School

7625 Cortland Ave.

Dallas

olphdallas.com

1946

Our Redeemer Lutheran School

7611 Park Lane

Dallas

ordallas.org

1960

Parish Episcopal School

4101 Sigma Road

Dallas

parish.org

1972

Pebblecreek Montessori

8104 Coit Road

Plano

pebblecreekmontessori.org

2002

Preston Hollow Presbyterian School

9800 Preston Road

Dallas

phps.org

1962

Prestonwood Christian Academy North

1001 W. Prosper Trail

Prosper

prestonwoodchristian.org/north

2014

Prestonwood Christian Academy

6801 W. Park Blvd.

Plano

prestonwoodchristian.org

1997

Prince of Peace Catholic School

5100 W. Plano Parkway

Plano

popschool.net

1991

Prince of Peace Christian School

4004 Midway Road

Carrollton

popcs.org

1980

Providence Christian School of Texas

5002 West Lovers Lane

Dallas

pcstx.org

1989

The St. Anthony School

2030 N. Denton Drive

Carrollton

thestanthonyschool.com

1998

24

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

FI

N

AN

CI AL

AI SC D H O O FF L A ER R TO ED SHI PS TA L EN RO LL U N M IF EN O T RM S AV G. CL AS S SI ZE EL EM TE E AC NT H AR ER Y RA STU T I DE O N AC T/ CR ED IT AT IO N

IO N IT TU N U AL AN

ES GR AD

RE L AF IG FI IOU LI S AT IO N

None

6–12

$3,450–$50,000

No

No

70

No

1

1-to-1

Cognia

None

6–12

$3,450–$50,000

No

Yes

100

No

1

1-to-1

Cognia, WASC, NWASC, MSA-CESS

Christian

Pre-K–12

$6,650–$8,500

Yes

No

269

Yes

18

16-to-1

ACSI, AACS

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$5,995–$14,500

Yes

Yes

225

Yes

20

18-to-1

TCCB ED

Episcopal

Pre-K–8

$17,000–$23,000

Yes

Yes

575

Yes

18

12-to-1

ISAS, SAES

Christian

Preschool–6

$3,000–$12,000

Yes

No

220

Yes

12

12-to-1

ACSI

None

4–12

$17,750–$19,800

No

Yes

120

Yes

10

8-to-1

Cognia, TEPSAC

None

Pre-K–12

$26,320–$32,615

Yes

No

1,320

No

17

8-to-1

ISAS

None

Preschool–6

$7,124–$16,068

Yes

No

110

Yes

12–17

5-to-1

None

Christian

Pre-K–12

$8,720–$12,700

No

No

520

Yes

14

12-to-1

ACSI, ACTABS, Cognia, TAAPS, TEPSAC

Christian

Preschool–6

$2,920–$10,640

No

No

100

Yes

8–18

15–18-to-1

None

Presbyterian

1–8

$15,100

Yes

Yes

48

Yes

6

6-to-1

TAAPS, TEPSAC

None

Pre-K–12

$26,900–$32,900

Yes

No

1,092

Yes

15

10-to-1

ISAS, NAIS, NCGS

Catholic

Preschool–8

$7,500

Yes

Yes

142

Yes

12

12-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Islamic

K–12

$6,500

Yes

No

200

Yes

18

15-to-1

Cognia, TEPSAC

Catholic

Preschool–8

$6,110

Yes

Yes

135

Yes

14

14-to-1

TCCB ED

None

6–12

$8,470

No

Yes

9

No

4

4-to-1

In process

Catholic

9–12

$19,950

Yes

Yes

1,123

No

17

9-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Catholic

9–12

$18,550

Yes

Yes

700

Yes

18

17-to-1

TCCB ED

None

Preschool–8

$9,600–$15,500

Yes

Yes

125

Yes

12–16

16-to-1

Cognia

None

K–12

$12,000–$23,400

Yes

No

360

No

14

10-to-1

ISAS

None

Preschool–3

$10,000

No

No

200

Yes

15

10-to-1

AMS

None

Preschool–6

$9,000–$10,500

No

No

70

No

15

12-to-1

AMS

None

Preschool-4

$14,874–$26,722

Yes

No

450

No

16

9-to-1

ISAS, NAIS

Christian

Preschool–12

$10,900–$18,500

Yes

No

1,025

Yes

18

17-to-1

ACSI, TAAPS, CESA

Christian

Preschool–12

$5,000

No

No

432

Yes

12–24

12–24-to-1

In process

Catholic

K–8

$6,000

Yes

Yes

435

Yes

20

20-to-1

NCEA, TCCB ED

Nondenominational

Pre-K–12

$7,075–$14,595

Yes

Yes

588

Yes

16–24

8-to-1

ACSI, Cognia

None

Pre-K–12

$19,500–$21,500

Yes

Yes

30

Yes

5

5-to-1

None

None

Preschool–6

$500–$700 per month

No

No

120

Yes

15

15-to-1

None

Jewish

9–12

$16,100–$17,600

Yes

Yes

60

Yes

15

N/A

Cognia

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,600

Yes

Yes

128

Yes

12

12-to-1

TCCB ED

Christian

Preschool–7

$12,000

Yes

Yes

92

Yes

10

10-to-1

ACSI, Cognia

Adventist

Pre-K–12

$5,000–$9,950

Yes

No

270

Yes

18

15-to-1

AAA, TEPSAC

None

5–12

$5,000–$8,000

Yes

Yes

60

No

10

10-to-1

None

Catholic

K–12

$9,750

Yes

No

165

Yes

10

5-to-1

NCEA, TCCB ED

None

Preschool–12

$19,700–$24,000

Yes

No

155

Yes

6

8-to-1

Cognia

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$4,550

Yes

Yes

181

Yes

16

12-to-1

TCCB ED

Lutheran

Preschool–6

$3,000–$11,000

Yes

Yes

140

Yes

14

12-to-1

NLSA, TEPSAC

Episcopal

Pre-K–12

$11,500–$30,600

Yes

No

1,100

Yes

16

8-to-1

ISAS, SAES, NAIS

None

Preschool–6

$10,538–$15,920

No

No

150

No

9–24

12-to-1

IMC

Presbyterian

K–6

$20,200–$21,000

Yes

No

133

Yes

10

4-to-1

Cognia

Baptist

Pre-K–10

$6,200–$21,835

Yes

No

240

Yes

10–14

9-to-1

ACSI, Cognia

Baptist

Pre-K–12

$6,200–$21,835

Yes

No

1,400

Yes

12–15

11-to-1

ACSI, Cognia

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,985

Yes

No

816

Yes

25

14-to-1

TCCB ED

Christian; Lutheran

Preschool–12

$6,250–$18,510

Yes

Yes

750

Yes

18

10-to-1

Cognia, NLSA, TEPSAC

Christian

Pre-K–8

$3,750–$18,850

Yes

No

480

Yes

14

10-to-1

TAAPS

None

K–12

$22,300–$23,800

Yes

Yes

85

Yes

8–10

5-to-1

TAAPS dfwchild.com / january 2020

25

SH YE A ES R TA B

LI

E IT W EB S

Y CI T

RE SS D AD

SC H

O O L

ED

THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST

St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic School

1420 Old Gate Lane

Dallas

stbernardccs.org

1948

St. Cecilia Catholic School

635 Mary Cliff Road

Dallas

stceciliacatholic.org

1935

St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School

4019 S. Hampton Road

Dallas

saintspride.com

1958

St. John's Episcopal School

848 Harter Road

Dallas

stjohnsschool.org

1953

St. Joseph Catholic School

600 S. Jupiter Road

Richardson

stjosephccschool.net

2002

St. Mark Catholic School

1201 Alma Drive

Plano

stmcs.net

1982

St. Mark's School of Texas

10600 Preston Road

Dallas

smtexas.org

1906

St. Martin De Porres Catholic School

4000 W. University Drive

Prosper

smdpcatholic.org

2012

St. Mary of Carmel Catholic School

1716 Singleton Road

Dallas

smcschool.org

1944

St. Monica Catholic School

4140 Walnut Hill Lane

Dallas

stmonicaschool.org

1955

St. Patrick Catholic School

9635 Ferndale Road

Dallas

spsdallas.org

1964

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School

720 S. Floyd Road

Richardson

spsdfw.org

1956

St. Philip & St. Augustine Catholic Academy

8151 Military Parkway

Dallas

spsacatholic.org

1955

St. Philip’s School & Community Center

1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

Dallas

stphilips1600.org

1968

St. Pius X Catholic School

3030 Gus Thomasson Road

Dallas

spxdallasschool.org

1955

St. Rita Catholic School

12525 Inwood Road

Dallas

strita.net

1964

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School

3741 Abrams Road

Dallas

staschool.org

1947

St. Timothy Christian Academy

6801 W. Park Blvd.

Plano

staplano.org

2006

The Saint Timothy School

4333 Cole Ave.

Dallas

thesainttimothyschool.org

2008

Santa Clara Catholic School

321 Calumet Ave.

Dallas

santaclaraacademy.org

1994

Scofield Christian School

7730 Abrams Road

Dallas

scofieldchristianschool.org

1961

Shelton School & Evaluation Center

15720 Hillcrest Road

Dallas

shelton.org

1976

Southwest Adventist Junior Academy

1600 Bonnie View Road

Dallas

swaja.org

1929

Spring Creek Academy

6000 Custer Road

Plano

springcreekacademy.com

1997

Starwood Academy of Frisco

3443 Lebanon Road

Frisco

starwoodschools.com

2018

Trinity Christian Academy

17001 Addison Road

Addison

trinitychristian.org

1970

Trinity Christian School

1231 E. Pleasant Run Road

Cedar Hill

trinitychristianschool.com

1981

Tyler Street Christian Academy

915 W. Ninth St.

Dallas

tsca.org

1972

Ursuline Academy of Dallas

4900 Walnut Hill Lane

Dallas

ursulinedallas.org

1874

Vanguard Preparatory School

4240 Sigma Road

Dallas

vanguardprepschool.com

1980

Wesley Prep

9200 Inwood Road

Dallas

wesleyprep.org

1968

The Westwood School

14340 Proton Road

Dallas

westwoodschool.org

1986

White Rock Montessori

1601 Oates Drive

Dallas

whiterockmontessori.org

1975

White Rock North School

9727 White Rock Trail

Dallas

whiterocknorthschool.com

1964

The Winston School

5707 Royal Drive

Dallas

winston-school.org

1975

Wylie Preparatory Academy

4110 Skyview Court

Wylie

wylieprep.com

2001

Yavneh Academy

12324 Merit Drive

Dallas

yavnehdallas.org

1993

Yorktown Education

5170 Village Creek Drive

Plano

yorktowned.com

2008

Zion Lutheran School

6121 E. Lovers Lane

Dallas

ziondallas.org

1879

*The information above is provided to us by the schools and is based on the 2019–2020 school year; the information is subject to change in upcoming years. Schools that aren’t listed do not offer at least three primary or secondary grades.

Key: AAA = Adventist Accrediting Association, AACS = American Association of Christian Schools, ACCS = Association of Classical & Christian Schools, ACSI = Association of Christian Schools International, ACTABS = The Accreditation Commission of the Texas Association of Baptist Schools, ACTS = Association of Christian Teachers and Schools, AMS = American Montessori Society, ASA = The American Society of Appraisers, CCLE = Consortium for Classical Lutheran Education, CESA = Council on Educational Standards and Accountability, IALDS = International Association of Learner Driven Schools, IB = International Baccalaureate, ICAISA = International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation, IMC = International Montessori Council, ISAS = Independent School Association of the Southwest, MSA-CESS = Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools, MLF = Mission Laïque Française, NAEYC = National Association for the Education of Young Children, NAIS = National Association of

26

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

AN

CI AL

AI SC D H O O FF L A ER R TO ED SHI PS TA L EN RO LL U N M IF EN O T RM S AV G. CL AS S SI ZE EL EM TE E AC NT H AR ER Y RA STU T I DE O N AC T/ CR ED IT AT IO N

IO N IT TU N U AL

Pre-K–8

$6,200

Yes

Yes

150

Yes

15

10-to-1

TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$5,220–$5,902

Yes

No

140

Yes

14

10-to-1

TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,500

Yes

No

200

Yes

15

15-to-1

TCCB ED

Episcopal

Pre-K–8

$12,332–$19,672

Yes

No

500

Yes

18

9-to-1

ISAS, SAES, ICAISA

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,300–$8,300

Yes

No

255

Yes

15

13-to-1

TCCB ED

Catholic

Preschool–8

$8,105–$11,135

Yes

No

550

Yes

18

16-to-1

Cognia, NCEA, TCCB ED

Episcopal; Non-sectarian

1–12

$26,000–$33,500

Yes

No

885

Yes

15

8-to-1

ISAS

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,500–$7,850

Yes

No

190

Yes

12

13-to-1

TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$4,850

Yes

No

165

Yes

14

12-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,735–$11,600

Yes

Yes

784

Yes

20

10-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$7,370

Yes

Yes

455

Yes

19

13-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Catholic

Preschool–8

$7,700

Yes

Yes

175

Yes

18

14-to-1

NCEA

Catholic

Preschool–8

$5,460

Yes

Yes

330

Yes

15

12-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Christian

Preschool–6

$8,515–$9,375

Yes

No

228

Yes

12

1-to-1

ISAS

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$6,800

Yes

No

290

Yes

18

19-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$8,150

Yes

Yes

700

Yes

21

21-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$8,000

Yes

Yes

863

Yes

20

14-to-1

Cognia, TCCB ED

Christian

K–12

$21,700–$22,200

No

Yes

26

Yes

4–5

4-to-1

ACSI

Anglican

Pre-K–12

$6,500–$9,500

Yes

Yes

55

Yes

8

8-to-1

ACCS, ASA

Catholic

Pre-K–8

$5,400

Yes

Yes

198

Yes

16

16-to-1

TCCB ED

Christian

Preschool–6

$2,160–$11,385

Yes

No

175

Yes

12

12-to-1

ACSI, Cognia

None

Pre-K–12

$16,500–$31,500

Yes

No

959

Yes

10

6-to-1

ISAS

Adventist

Pre-K–8

$4,225

No

No

21

Yes

5–8

8-to-1

AAA, TEPSAC

None

1–12

$10,000

No

No

135

Yes

6

3–10-to-1

Cognia

None

Preschool–8

$10,050–$15,875

No

No

200

Yes

20

10-to-1

AMS

Christian

Pre-K–12

$9,500–$21,980

Yes

No

1,416

Yes

18–20

11-to-1

Cognia

Christian

Preschool–12

$5,700–$8,250

No

No

557

Yes

13–22

16-to-1

ACTS

Christian

Preschool–12

$6,750–$8,250

Yes

Yes

107

Yes

10

6-to-1

Cognia

Catholic

9–12

$22,900

Yes

Yes

850

Yes

15–18

N/A

ISAS, TAAPS, NAIS, NCGS

None

Pre-K–12

$21,500–$23,500

Yes

Yes

115

No

10

5-to-1

Cognia

Methodist

Preschool–6

Varies

Yes

Yes

459

Yes

14

14-to-1

Cognia

None

Preschool–12

$14,000–$20,000

Yes

Yes

275

Yes

15

10-to-1

Cognia, TAAPS, IMC, IB

None

Preschool–8

$13,000–$16,000

Yes

No

170

No

25

12.5-to-1

None

None

Preschool–6

$10,500–$14,750

No

Yes

325

Yes

10–15

4-to-1

Cognia

None

K–12

$20,000–$27,000

Yes

Yes

150

Yes

8

8-to-1

ISAS

Christian

Pre-K–12

$4,700–$9,425

Yes

No

320

Yes

14

14-to-1

Cognia, NAUMS

Jewish

9–12

$28,000

Yes

No

100

Yes

10

N/A

TAAPS, TEPSAC

None

K–12

$15,000–$20,000

Yes

Yes

100

Yes

10

10-to-1

Cognia, TEPSAC, NCAA

Lutheran

Preschool–8

$5,500–$11,200

Yes

Yes

267

Yes

20

10-to-1

NLSA, TANS

FI

N

AN

ES GR AD

RE L AF IG FI IOU LI S AT IO N

Catholic

Independent Schools, NAUMS = National Association of University-Model Schools, NCAA = National Collegiate Athletic Association, NCEA = National Catholic Educational Association, NCGS = National Coalition of Girls’ Schools, NCPSA = National Council for Private School Accreditation, NCSA = National Christian Schools Association of America, NLSA = National Lutheran School Accreditation, NWASC = Northwest Association of Accredited Schools, SAES = Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools, TAAPS = Texas Alliance of Accredited Private Schools, TACAC = Texas Association for College Admission Counseling, TANS = Texas Association of Non-Public Schools, TCCB ED = Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department, TEPSAC = Texas Private School Accreditation Commission, WASC = Western Association of Schools and Colleges; = School for children with learning differences or special needs

dfwchild.com / january 2020

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SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

School PROFILE Are you looking for a school that’s as passionate about your education as you are? Get to know the institutions that

child’s excel in

fostering a lifetime love of learning.

Walter Sorensen Head of School

The arc of the Alcuin student is a life-changing one.

From the time they arrive on our campus as toddlers to the time we say our tearful goodbyes at Upper School graduation, our students undergo a nearly 18-year process of intellectual, social and emotional formation that is found in only ten other schools in the world.

Our unique integration of the Montessori philosophy and the International Baccalaureate® program makes this possible. From the primary to elementary levels, our Montessori guides help students become decision makers, creative thinkers, and collaborative workers.

At 6th level, our students begin a new transition with our International Baccalaureate teachers, who mold their already inquisitive minds and help them become empathetic global citizens with a lifelong passion for learning.

At Alcuin, our teachers aren’t merely experts in their fields of study, they’re experts in child development. For us, the “status quo” isn’t enough. Every child needs a unique pathway to achieve his or her potential. We believe the combination of our Montessori and International Baccalaureate® programs do just that, and when that potential is realized, we believe our students will change the world.

I invite you to come visit us and see why we are one of the premiere Montessori and International Baccalaureate schools in the world.

Alcuin School 6144 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230 972-239-1745 alcuinschool.org

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SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

If you have children, you are already on an exciting adventure. You have been tasked with the most challenging responsibility known to humankind.

At Covenant, we too are on an adventure. As a community of like-hearted families, we are on a journey of faith and learning together.

Once children start school, they will spend more hours at school and involved in school-related activities than they will spend with you. We believe that who they spent those hours with, who most shapes their thinking and beliefs, and who cares about them and supports them day to day and year after year really matters.

If joy-filled school days, skills for success, lifelong learning, and connections to like-hearted families with a common purpose are what you are looking for, Covenant may be the school for you. Research our Classical, Charlotte Mason-based program, come observe how we experience authentic Christian Community together, and we hope you consider including the Covenant journey in your family’s life adventure.

The Covenant School is lead by our Head of School, Robert Littlejohn, Ph.D. He has extensive experience in education and is the co-author of Wisdom and Eloquence: A Christian Paradigm for Classical Learning.

Robert Littlejohn, PH.D. Head of School

The Covenant School 7300 Valley View Ln., Dallas, TX 75240 covenantdallas.com Melissa Hill, Director of Admissions mhill@covenantdallas.com

Catherine Lévy

Dallas International School welcomes Catherine Lévy as its new Head of School.

Coming from a rich background in teaching and administration all over the world and working with students of many different cultures, she brings a fresh and holistic approach to the DIS campuses.

Our world has become global. As your children grow, they will not only be citizens of their own country, but of the world. As global citizens they will need new skills. They will face challenges that previous generations have not experienced.

The ability to understand, communicate and work among other cultures is becoming more important every day.

By offering a unique bilingual education for students from preschool through high school in English and French, Dallas International School teaches a solid foundation of skills that covers all the fundamentals offered by other private schools, while giving our students the advantage of acquiring second and third languages throughout their school career. In 2020, Dallas International School offers a new language immersion program in the elementary years for children with no prior French language exposure. Language fluency makes them stronger candidates for university placement following graduation in 12th grade.

Our rigorous academic program successfully integrates the renowned French national curriculum, the best practices of American education, and the unique advanced bilingual International Baccalaureate diploma program.

Dallas International School students are “Globally inspired. Distinctly different.”

Head of School

Churchill Campus PK2–4th Grade 6039 Churchill Way Dallas, TX 75230 972-991-6379

Waterview Campus 5th–12th Grade 17811 Waterview Pkwy.

Dallas, TX 75252 469-250-0001

dallasinternationalschool.org

dfwchild.com / january 2020

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SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

At Parish Episcopal School, it’s about balance and joy in your educational journey, discovering your authentic self, and having a great sense of belonging. School leadership believes that our foundational task is to help students (PreK 3–12th) discover their God-given gifts and embrace their authentic identity. As an inclusive Episcopal community with more than 30 percent diversity and 23 different faith backgrounds on two campuses, Parish embraces the differences among our community members, preparing our students to lead by demonstrating knowledge of and respect for the rich variety of people and points of view that exist in our complex global society.

Parish’s academic efforts are geared toward enhancing learning elements and introducing a better system of engagement across all disciplines, PreK 3–12th grade, so that mastery is accomplished, not just a grade or an advance placement moniker.

The principles guiding the School reflect awareness of individuality, including: • Honoring students voice and choice in learning • Meeting students where they are, helping reach new levels of mastery as they are ready • Helping students develop enduring habits of mind, transferrable to a lifetime of learning and excelling • Creating learning conditions which engage student in authentic, meaningful work The Parish community celebrates together its many backgrounds, traditions and successes. Hear more about belonging at Parish from Head of School Dave Monaco on February 5, 2020 at 9am.

Parish Episcopal School 972-852-8737 parishepiscopal.org

Hillcrest Campus PreK–2nd Grade 14115 Hillcrest Rd. Dallas, TX 75254

Midway Campus 3rd–12th Grade 4101 Sigma Rd. Dallas, TX 75244

Independent, Confident and Responsible, Yorktown Graduates are ready to take on the world. They also have outstanding academics; averaging 3.8 on a 4.0 grade scale in their college work and over $80,000 in college scholarships.

As early implementers of student-centered education, Yorktown personalizes education for every student. We believe in the development of the whole child—personal, academic, physical.

We teach students ages 5–18 to focus on “Do What You Love” to achieve their full potential. As a student progresses, they gain cultural awareness and align with what they do best.

Rather than traditional grade levels, which can be restrictive, Yorktown uses cohort levels, allowing students to develop respect, personal responsibility and the ability to innovate and think critically, while mastering each subject. For ages 10–12, this approach embodies a strong foundation of solid Reading, Writing and Math skills, and then adding Science, Chinese Mandarin, Art and Drama. At higher academic levels, students assume more responsibility for their schedules, working within groups, finding collaborative solutions, and developing expertise to accomplish advanced work leading to college acceptances and scholarships.

Yorktown Education has high accreditation scores and is accredited by AdvancED, SACS/CASI and the NCAA, with credits recognized by schools in all 50 states and over 70 foreign countries. Yorktown is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and the Educational Records Bureau.

Yorktown Education 5170 Village Creek Dr., Plano, TX 75093 972-936-7988 yorktowned.org

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Elizabeth Murski, M.Ed., LPC Head of School

Dave Baad

Hobson Family Head of School

At Dallas Academy, our goal is to restore a love of learning, improve self-confidence, and ultimately have a positive impact on the entire family. Since 1965, Dallas Academy has offered a structured, multi-sensory program for students with diagnosed learning differences including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADD/ADHD, and memory and processing disorders.

As the Head of School, Ms. Elizabeth Murski brings her 14 years of previous experience at Dallas Academy as Head of High School and prides herself on preparing students for further study and, more importantly, a successful life.

Visit Dallas Academy on Sunday, January 26th from 2–4pm for an OPEN HOUSE.

Dallas Academy 950 Tiffany Way, Dallas, TX 75218 214-324-1481 fax 214-327-8537 mail@dallas-academy.com dallas-academy.com

The Episcopal School of Dallas is committed to developing an educated conscience in its students that will ignite lives of purpose.

Great teachers make great schools.

ESD’s rigorous hiring process and robust professional development allow us to attract and retain the best educators possible.

“Among my favorite experiences as Head of School are my daily interactions with students,” said Dave Baad, Hobson Family Head of School and sixth-grade history teacher. “They bring enthusiasm and energy to our campus that reinforces the positive learning atmosphere. It is a joy to be here.”

Joyful, curious, determined, resilient, compassionate, creative, kind, astute. These attributes describe ESD students. Representing 71 zip codes across the Metroplex and

founded on the belief that every child is made in the image of a loving God, students from age 3 to grade 12 unite on one campus for transformative learning experiences.

Join us for a visit to learn more.

“Enlightened Minds. Compassionate Spirits.”

That has been a mantra lived out with intention since the school’s beginning more than 50 years ago. “All of our programs are based on the belief that children learn when they are confident, safe, nurtured and challenged and provided with the appropriate tools for learning. And, that is the foundation and fabric of Wesley Prep,” said Linda Altick, the school’s executive director. “Wesley Prep is known for having fabulous teachers and an environment that allows the school to always put the child first. Our goal is to educate and prepare the whole child—academically, emotionally, physically and spiritually—and this continues to guide our growth. We are excited about the opportunities we are offering our children.”

When Wesley Prep students graduate from

sixth grade, 95% receive acceptances to their first choice schools and they are prepared to be strong participants in all that lies ahead.

The Episcopal School of Dallas 4100 Merrell Road, Dallas, TX 75229 214-358-4368 esdallas.org

Wesley Prep 9200 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX 75220 214-706-9568 admissions@wesleyprep.org wesleyprep.org

dfwchild.com / january 2020

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SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Carla Stanford, M.Ed. Executive Director

Students with learning differences can find success at Fairhill School. For more than 48 years, bright students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD or processing disorders have been able to overcome obstacles to learning in order to reach their full potential.

Fairhill has the feel of a traditional school with a customized approach to learning. The school provides multi-sensory instruction, small student-teacher ratios, a college preparatory curriculum and a highly qualified staff including dyslexia and reading specialists. By employing targeted

German ISD’s immersion program is the most efficient way to learn or maintain German language. Besides academic success, German ISD offers plenty of opportunities to maintain German tradition and culture— with an emphasis on each individual and each student’s role in a culturally rich and globally focused world. The school’s curriculum is designed for a child from age 18 months to 10 years to achieve maximum growth as a successful student and happy learner. german-isd.org Open house: Jan 24, 2020, noon to 5pm.

Grace Academy of Dallas is proud to partner with families to meet both the educational and spiritual needs of each child. Grace Academy offers a unique balance of an academically rigorous curriculum within a nurturing, Christian environment. Students are encouraged to maintain a balance of academic, spiritual, social, athletic, and artistic pursuits and to discover new gifts and talents. Grace Academy is located in the heart of Preston Hollow and serves students in Pre-K3 through the sixth grade.

interventions, academic support and the appropriate amount of rigor, students excel, build confidence, and experience success.

Fairhill School

16150 Preston Rd., Dallas, TX 75248 972-233-1026 cstanford@fairhill.org fairhill.org

German International School of Dallas 12411 Templeton Trl., Dallas, TX 75234 214- 507- 0130 german-isd.org

Join us for a “Touch of Grace” Open House!

Grace will welcome prospective families to campus on Tuesday, January 14th at 6:30 p.m. and Wednesday, January 15th at 9:30 a.m.

Grace Academy of Dallas 11306A Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX 75229 214-696-5648 • graceacademy.com

I am proud to be the head of a school dedicated to ensuring that students with learning differences receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially. The Hillier School offers small, engaging classes for students with dyslexia and related language learning differences in grades 1–8. Students are taught through a structured, multi-sensory approach in a Christ-centered environment that fosters self-respect and competence and

Ginger Gustovich, M.Ed., CALT Head of School

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

empowers students to reach their full potential both in and outside of the classroom.

3821 University Blvd., Dallas, TX 75205 214-525-6600 hillierschool.org

SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION The Kessler School offers an innovative academic environment that gives students a solid foundation, confidence and a love of learning. Serving grades PK–8th, The Kessler School is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Dallas.

With small class sizes, we make it a priority to provide an individualized approach to teaching. Daily, students are educated socially through community time, physically through P.E. and outdoor play, academically through a well-rounded curriculum, and spiritually through fostering

Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill Catherine M. Rose Head of School

The Lamplighter School’s legacy as the premier early childhood and elementary school in Dallas was founded on the principles of collaborative hands-on learning, respect for self and others, shared values, and meaningful traditions. We are decidedly innovative and creative in our approach as we invite each child to participate in the joy of learning.

Join us for an Admission Coffee and tour on Wednesday, January 15 or for a Spring Information Session and tour on Wednesday, April 8 and experience how Lamplighter delivers serious education wrapped in the wonder of childhood.

Our Redeemer of Dallas’ administration, teachers, and parents are dedicated to providing an academically challenging education for children in a happy and safe environment. It is our pleasure to use our Enrichment Strands to create a customized learning experience for each child in our care from age 1–6th grade. Our teachers love what they do, and are excited to play an important role in your child’s life, while sharing Jesus’ love for all people.

Chris Hahn Headmaster

I began my teaching career and ministry 30 years ago. My desire then, and now, was to work for and with children. I started my career as a teacher and coach, and have been part of our leadership team at Prince of Peace Christian for the last several years. I desire to encourage. I desire to motivate and challenge.

I desire to help each child find success and exceed their potential. While each child is different and unique, I desire to serve them as a dream builder and dream molder.

At Prince of Peace Christian, I am blessed to lead and serve exceptional children with

awareness and individual growth.

• Daily Spanish Instruction • Reader’s & Writer’s Workshop • Project-based learning • STEM Lab by “Mad Science” • Fine Arts Programs • After School Enrichment Classes

The Kessler School 1215 Turner Ave., Dallas, TX 75208 214-942-2220 info@thekesslerschool.com thekesslerschool.com

The Lamplighter School 11611 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX 75229 214-369-9201 thelamplighterschool.org

Our Redeemer Lutheran School 7611 Park Ln., Dallas, TX 75225 214-368-1465 ORDallas.org

big dreams. I am blessed to lead and serve a faculty and staff of dream makers.

Prince of Peace Christian School. Exceptional academics, developing disciples and leaders for service and success. Big Dreams, Big God.

Prince of Peace Christian School & Early Learning Center 4004 Midway Rd., Carrollton, TX 75007 972-447-0532 • popcs.org

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SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Suzanne Stell Executive Director

Rebbie J. Evans Head of School

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

Engage, Enrich, Empower.

We’re changing the way the world thinks about learning differences by using a customized approach within a mainstream environment and by cultivating the unique gifts and talents of the creative, intelligent, progressive and resilient students we serve.

We do it by sharing the student success stories we’ve had since 1976.

We are the largest independent school worldwide for intelligent students who just happen to have a learning difference.

Services also include an evaluation center,

a speech therapy program, and outreach/ training … one Shelton with many resources.

Our theme for the year is The Future Is Ours.

St. John’s is more than a school. We are a community. Students and families are known and celebrated, and that sense of belonging is a hallmark of a St. John’s education.

Our community nurtures and guides children through achievements and challenges, encourages curiosity, and rewards courage. Students dream, take risks, adapt and find comfort, even in uncomfortable spaces. Mindful leaders and young citizens emerge through our awardwinning service-learning program. All within the St. John’s Code framework that calls us

to be respectful, responsible, honest and to care about each other.

Come. Experience. Belong.

Founded in 1964 by John and Mary Adams, former Dallas ISD teachers, White Rock North School is a traditional school with many wonderful twists!

We believe children learn best when they are stimulated and engaged, so our statecertified staff teaches outside of the classroom as much as possible! Our average class size is 8–10 students; an ideal size for creating a kidcentric climate, where all students benefit from individualized attention. Children with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Speech and processing delays are blended with mainstream leaners.

Our students are nurtured and come to realize that intelligence has many faces. Pairing academics with roller skating, swimming and farming, our students learn to celebrate their own individual gifts and strengths.

Known for its extraordinary ability to maximize the potential of bright students who learn differently,® The Winston School empowers its students to face the challenges of tomorrow through well-rounded academic, social, and emotional programs. Also, Winston places a special emphasis on both the Fine and Performing Arts.

We invite you to schedule a private tour or attend our Open House on Sunday, January 26, at 2 pm. Discover the difference a Winston education can make for students Kindergarten through 12th grades.

Shelton School and Evaluation Center 15720 Hillcrest Rd. Dallas, TX 75248 972-774-1772 • shelton.org

St. John’s Episcopal School 848 Harter Rd. , Dallas, TX 75218 214-382-9131 StJohnsSchool.org

White Rock North School 9727 White Rock Trail, Dallas, TX 75238 214-348-7410 • a_adams@whiterocknorthschool.com whiterocknorthschool.com

K–12th Grades The Winston School 5707 Royal Ln., Dallas, TX 75229 214-691-6950 • info@winston-school.org winston-school.org

SCHOOL PROFILE / SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Lakehill Headmaster Roger L. Perry recently announced a tuition reduction for kindergarten and first grade. The 2020-21 tuition has been adjusted to $12,000 for kindergarten and $15,000 for first grade. This reduction reflects Lakehill’s commitment to making the Lakehill experience more accessible to families with young children.

Please contact the Office of Admission to learn

Lakehill Preparatory School 2720 Hillside Dr., Dallas, TX 75214 214-826-2931 • admission@lakehillprep.org lakehillprep.org

more or schedule a tour.

Dr. Lisa Hill, Head of School

Dr. Traci Tucker, Head of School

Dr. Terry J. Flowers, Perot Family Headmaster

Dr. Hill holds a Doctorate in K–12 Educational Leadership and has thirty years of experience as teacher and administrator. She is a proponent of arts education to reach the whole student and develop strengths and talents in each child. Dr. Hill is delighted to lead an organization that provides opportunities for youth ages 11–18 with a passion for the performing arts. NTPA offers an educational and experiential learning model through “Three Pillars”: Educate, Explore, Experience.

As a Christian educator for 30 years, I believe that each child is unique, made in the image of God. I partner with parents to develop their child’s intellect, character, and spiritual gifts to serve Jesus with their whole heart.

Since 1961, Scofield Christian School has provided children, 3K through 6th grade with an academically challenging, multi-sensory education, integrated with Biblical truths within a nurturing, Christ-centered environment. Please call to schedule a personal tour.

January 20, 2020 marks Dr. Terry J. Flowers’ 36th year of service with St. Philip’s School and Community Center. Dr. Flowers’ experience and leadership led to the establishment of curriculum for St. Philip’s that emphasizes academic excellence, a positive self-image, and faith-based focus for life.

Alongside the strong academic program are numerous collaborative social service and community development activities. This broad-based approach has established St. Philip’s as a model educational institution for inner-city schools — public, charter and private.

North Texas Performing Arts - Academy 6121 W. Park Blvd. B216, Plano, TX 75093 972-422-2575 • academy@ntpa.org NTPA.org/Academy

New! Transitional Kindergarten Scofield Christian School 7730 Abrams Rd., Dallas, TX 75231 214-349-6843 • office@scofieldchristian.org scofieldchristianschool.org

PK2–6th Grade St. Philip’s School & Community Center 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Dallas, TX 75215 214-421-5221 • stphilips1600.org

DFWChild.com Directory Helping parents successfully navigate the school years is kind of our thing.

Explore our not-so-secret weapon, the online directory, at dfwchild.com.

dfwchild.com / january 2020

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

kid culture.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MERIT CHINESE SCHOOL

Merit Chinese School students learn language while experiencing cultural heritage.

DUAL LINGOS

how to immerse your kiddos in a new language WORDS LISA SALINAS + ALEXIS PATTERSON

F

ORT WORTH DAD MATTHEW SIKES WISHES HE WERE BILINGUAL.

“All the time,” he shares. “I’m a lawyer, and the more languages you speak, the greater the pool of potential clients. And it would help with witnesses. Plus, knowing other languages opens up cultural experiences you won’t have if you speak only English.”

Little by little, Sikes is learning some Spanish through his daughters. They’re 2 and 4—and take classes at the Spanish-immersion preschool Mi Casita.

“I find myself trying to figure out what they said,” Sikes laughs. “I look things up on Google Translate.”

Sikes enrolled his daughters at Mi Casita with the hope that they will one day dfwchild.com / january 2020

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kid culture / D U A L

CUSTOM TREATS cakes • cupcakes • cake pops personalized treat bags gourmet popcorn cotton candy

-color

MICHELE’S

EVENT SERVICE

469-630-1950 • www.kayleigh-micheles.com

color

color ternative

LINGOS

have the professional and travel opportunities he hasn’t had. He also sees great value for their developing minds.

“They’re thinking in different ways and improving their cognition,” Sikes says of the girls. “They’ve really taken to it. I’ve even heard the older one lecturing the younger one in Spanish.”

Sikes and his wife are among a growing number of parents who want their children to be multilingual. It makes sense, given our global society where diverse cultures thrive.

According to the U.S. Census, nearly 30% of the Texas population (that is, 7.8 million people) speak Spanish at home. There are private, specialty schools that help children become bilingual as well as a dual-language trend in North Texas public schools. Here’s how and why those programs work.

pre-K3,” Laupie-Williams notes. “They will be able to speak back in French in kindergarten.”

They gain skills in other languages too.

DIS instructional days are split primarily between French and English, with a third language (Spanish or Mandarin) incorporated beginning in pre-K4.

Even parents who speak another language themselves choose these kinds of schools and programs. Dallas mom Nelyda Villaseñor initially learned Spanish from her parents but gained fluency in dual-language programs. So it was an easy choice to enroll her 3-year-old daughter in bilingual pre-K at Dallas ISD’s Arthur Kramer Elementary.

“I have a few cousins whose parents enrolled them in only-English classes starting in kindergarten, and they can barely speak Spanish,” she says. “They are not able to write it nor really read it fluently. That makes a huge difference.”

Villaseñor tells us her daughter grows her language abilities mostly through playtime and basic skills building.

“I feel like her vocabulary has expanded,” she says.

“She’s using fuller sentences now.”

“THEY’RE THINKING IN DIFFERENT WAYS AND IMPROVING THEIR COGNITION.”

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

SPEAK TO ME Mi Casita—the preschool and day care that Sikes’ daughters attend in Fort Worth— conducts classes in 100% Spanish.

“More than teaching in Spanish, we speak in Spanish,” explains Melissa Page Peter, founder and owner of Mi Casita, which accepts kids from birth to 5 years. “If we did both English and Spanish, the students wouldn’t have as much exposure to Spanish. The more sounds they hear in Spanish, the higher the likelihood of fluency.”

Mi Casita students take in the language through project-based learning—such as creating a toy store and presenting it (in Spanish) to their families. This is in contrast to simply being taught nouns, verbs and the like.

“Project-based learning is engaging, authentic work that leads to very positive learning experiences in general,” says Page Peter. “And my philosophy is that when we align language with that approach, they’ll have more positive experiences with Spanish as well.”

Starting your kids young is best. While “better late than never,” Page Peter says “the optimal time is 0–7.”

Camille Laupie-Williams—a Dallas International School (DIS) pre-K3 French teacher—says kids in preschool grasp language quickly because they absorb it intuitively. In contrast, an adult might try to compare and translate what they’re learning to their first language.

“Our students will start to understand directions in French, to participate in our language rituals and to answer questions in

CULTIVATING CULTURE Another important aspect of language learning is immersion in the culture of study. For example, DIS follows the French education model.

“We have more breaks during the day,” says Laupie-Williams. “We have three different recesses—that’s a little different from American schools, I think. Playing outside is important for us.”

And the children learn French stories and music too, such as classic book Roule Galette and children’s song “Une Souris Verte.” Plus, there’s one day out of the year that’s dedicated to celebrating all the countries around the world that speak French.

There’s also a multinational feel at Mi Casita, where most of the teachers were born outside of the United States.

“We have teachers from Honduras, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Colombia,” says Page Peter. “Their cultural experience, they bring that to the classroom.”

Ultimately, these schools teach kids how to navigate modern life.

“It’s that open mind that they get here at DIS,” Laupie-Williams says. “Being aware at such a young age of all the different cultures, all the different languages, is preparing them for the global world that they’re going to grow up in.”

PRACTICE, PRACTICE From at-home resources to library storytimes and bilingual schools in North Texas, here are ways to help immerse your kiddos in a new language.

AT- H OM E R E SO U RCE S Au Pair in America

Local mom Kallie Freelen used Au Pair in America to find a Spanish-speaking au pair. aupairinamerica.com

Jamma Jango

Jamma Jango offers dual-language programs in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese for kids up to age 7. jammajango.com

STORYTIMES Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library in McKinney

Beginning the second week of January through May, stop by for multilingual storytime Wednesdays at 11:15am.

101 E. Hunt St., McKinney; mckinneytexas.org

Dallas Public Library

Bilingual storytimes in Spanish and English are offered at: Park Forest Branch: Mondays at 11am; Lakewood Branch: Thursdays at 10:30am; Grauwyler Park Branch: Thursdays at 11:30am; Central Library: Fridays at 10:30am; White Rock Hills Branch: Fridays at 10:30am; Prairie Creek Branch: Fridays at 4pm. dallaslibrary2.org

SCHOOLS Dallas International School

This private school combines the French National Curriculum, International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and best education practices of other nations. For age 2 through high school.

6039 Churchill Way, Dallas (Lower School Campus) 17811 Waterview Parkway, Dallas (Upper School Campus); dallasinternationalschool.org

Dallas Spanish House

With locations in East Dallas, this school serves infants to 5-year-olds, and has an accredited school for kindergarten through fifth grade.

Multiple locations; dallasspanishhouse.com

German International School of Dallas

Offers classes for preschool kids (ages 18 months to 5 years) as well as for kindergarten and lower elementary students (ages 6–10 years).

12411 Templeton Trail, Dallas; german-isd.org

Guidepost Montessori

This school offers a Spanish immersion program for littles as young as infants up through kindergarten.

Multiple locations; guidepostmontessori.com

Merit Chinese School

This non-profit organization lets children begin Mandarin lessons at age 6 and Cantonese lessons at age 5.

1108 W. Parker Road, Plano; meritchineseschool.org

The Montessori Learning House

With classes in Spanish and English, this school follows Piaget’s cognitive development theory and the Montessori philosophy.

1000 E. Eldorado, Suite 170, Little Elm; tmlhbilingualschool.com

Spanish Schoolhouse

The Spanish Schoolhouse offers preschool up to kindergarten, summer camps, plus Mommy and Me classes.

Multiple locations; spanishschoolhouse.com

dfwchild.com / january 2020

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county/locavore. dallas

Megan Mitchell with students on a field trip to the Children’s Arts & Literacy Festival.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEGAN MITCHELL

influencer /

BEYOND THE WALLS a q&a with teacher and field trip pro megan mitchell WORDS ELIZABETH QUINN

I

N THE CORNER OF GOOD COMPANIONS COFFEE SHOP ON A COOL MORNING, Megan Mitchell and one of her daughters sit down with warm drinks and sweet treats.

As we begin talking, it’s clear that Mitchell is passionate about education, both inside the classroom and outside of school hours. During the workday, she teaches art in Dallas Independent School District. (She previously served as a second grade teacher in DeSoto ISD.) On her own time, and sometimes using her own money, Mitchell takes students on field trips. With the traditional school outings a little less common these days, Mitchell takes it upon herself to make sure students experience museums, the opera and other destinations. She believes field trips create new perspectives and bring learning to life, as she explained during our conversation. → dfwchild.com / january 2020

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dallas co. / I N F L U E N C E R Where did your passion for field trips originate? My parents were both educators

and encouraged free thinking and utilization of my creative energies. They made sure I was exposed to many different philosophies and had a variety of experiences, such as visiting national landmarks, living in Cambridge for a summer while my father attended Harvard on fellowship and meeting a diverse group of artists, theorists and authors. All of my exposure and experiences, as well as my parents’ encouragement, are the influential factors that shaped me into the educator I am today.

What prompted you to personally make more field trips possible? My community involve-

ment began to evolve about eight years ago, when budgets for education began to be cut across the state, and decisions were made to minimize field trips for students. This was detrimental to the development of our students—because more often than not, those trips were the only exposure these students would have to actually apply concepts or see concepts being applied MAKING in real-world settings.

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

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To schedule a tour, contact Diana Bosworth dbosworth@notredameschool.org

if they are able to contribute. For example, on our three-day field trip to the Children’s Arts and Literacy Festival in Abilene, my husband and I pay most of the hotel costs as well as all taxes, tips and other costs and fees. We ask parents to help cover some of the hotel (around $10 per child) and contribute what they can for food. This last year, I had a couple of students that could not afford it, and so I either asked community members, or my husband and I [sponsored them]. Overall, we try to minimize costs wherever we can and look for educational experiences that are free or inexpensive.

Is this all on your mileage and on your car?

Yeah, I never ask parents for any of that. My husband and I viewed it as, “If we’re taking our own children then we’re going anyway,” so I’m not going to ask parents for that additional [money]. We purchase our personal vehicles with trips in mind, so both of our vehicles have three rows each.

What are some of the lessons the kids are learning on the field trips? With the

operas, we talk about the plot. These are basic things IT HAPPEN that a 7- and 8-year-old would be learning—so So you’ve been doing this Megan Mitchell doesn’t have a character, setting, probfor a while. But you seem formal fundraising system yet, lem, solution. I do introjust as enthusiastic today, but she would welcome donations duce them to words like if not more so. I think that toward the field trips or a new protagonist and antagobecause I see those “aha” van. She hopes to start a website nist, so I don’t ever dumb moments in the kids that it early this year. In the meantime, feel free to reach out to her down vocabulary to them. started rewarding me. It’s via Facebook (search Megan At the movie theaters, how the discussions and hearing McCutchen Mitchell). to make sure that we’re the conversations and the not bumping one another parents who reach back out or to interrupt the movie to me and ask me to come for anyone else, that it’s about an experience. to graduations ... or kids who moved to other When we’re doing the Dallas opera, they states and have said, “Ms. Mitchell, I really do a great job of learning how you show appreciate you exposing me to poetry. I’m thanks and say, “Brava, bravo, bravissimo,” and still passionate about it.” ... The way that I see who you’re saying that for. They’ve learned our kids, their main conversations when they about musical instruments, they’ve gotten come to me are about Fortnite, or Drake, or to play orchestra instruments. They get to whoever the current rap artist is. That’s their interview authors. They ask questions and exposure to life. find their drive and their motivation. I’ve I know there are a lot of families out there taken a set of kids to an event to meet Dav that it’s a standard to be able to take a trip to Pilkey [author and illustrator of the Captain India or to go on a cruise. That’s not a lot of Underpants and Dog Man series]. When we go my students. I want them to know that the to the Arboretum, we talk about geometry, and world is not just limited to their neighborhow do you plan a garden, and that it’s not just hood. The world has so much more to offer. If about horticulture, but it’s about knowing your I can plant that small seed ... giving them the math, design, color schemes. idea that we don’t live in a fated world, that And kids may find their passion on one of they’re not fated to anything—that whatever these field trips. Exactly. I got into teaching they want, they can have, if they push for it to truly help kids figure out what they are and have the drive for it. passionate about. My ideology is—it may Giving students these experiences doesn’t not always be what I’m passionate about, and happen for free. Do you ask the parents to pay that should not be my purpose for this. If it’s for their kids? I mainly look for communitysomething they’re passionate about, how do sponsored events that are open to the public, I get them connected to the right people to or I purchase memberships to organizations. further their education? Hopefully the field But when there are registration fees or tickets trips help put them on the right path. that must be purchased, then yes, I ask them

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EAT CHEAP

Denny’s | Diner Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult meal from 4–10pm. Drinks not included.

Dine-in only. Details vary by location. Deal also offered on Tuesday, though days vary by location. Age 12 and under.

Multiple locations; dennys.com Paradise Bakery | Deli

Free kids meal after 4pm with purchase of an adult entree. Deal also offered on Tuesday.

13710 Dallas Parkway, Dallas; paradisebakery.com Posados Café | Tex-Mex

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Age 12 and younger.

4000 Towne Crossing Blvd., Mesquite; posados.com

Fill little tummies by spending a crisp Lincoln or less. Know of a deal we missed?

Send us an email at editorial@dfwchild.com. = Kids eat free E D I T E D BY E M I LY Y E A R W O O D

SUNDAY

Blue Mesa Grill | Tex-Mex

Kids age 5 and younger eat free brunch with purchase of an adult brunch buffet from 9am–3pm. Deal also offered from 10am– 2pm Saturday.

14866 Montfort Drive, Addison; bluemesagrill.com Café Brazil | Breakfast/Brunch

Free kids entree with purchase of an adult entree from 5–10pm. Age 12 and younger.

Prices vary by location. Deal also offered Monday–Thursday.

Multiple locations; cafebrazil.com Cowboy Chicken | Southern

Kids eat free after 4pm with purchase of an adult entree. Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger.

Deal also offered on Monday (but Monday only at the Greenville Avenue restaurant); other details vary by location.

Multiple locations; cowboychicken.com Dickey’s | Barbecue

Free kids meal with purchase of a $10 adult dine-in meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. Also, free ice cream every day with dine-in purchase. Details vary by location.

Multiple locations; dickeys.com Freebirds World Burrito | Tex-Mex

Free kids entree with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Age 12 and younger.

Multiple locations; freebirds.com 44

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

Modern Market | Farm-to-Table

Kids eat free after 5pm. All ages. Deal also offered on Monday. Details vary by location.

7949 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 101, Dallas; modernmarket.com Oliver’s Eatery | Deli

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Dine-in only. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered on Saturday. Kids meals are under $5 on weekdays.

4727 Frankford Road, Suite 373, Dallas; oliverseatery.com Slim Chickens | Southern

Free kids meal with purchase of one adult meal. Age 13 and younger. Dine-in only.

9100 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; slimchickens.com Steak ’n Shake | American

Free kids meal for every $9 spent at participating locations. Does not include drinks or shakes. Dine-in only. Age 12 and younger.

Deal also offered on Saturday. Kids meals are regularly priced under $3.

Multiple locations; steaknshake.com

MONDAY

Cristina’s Fine Mexican Restaurant | Tex-Mex

Kids age 12 and younger eat for under $2. Dinein only. Deal also offered on Tuesday. Number of discounted kids meals varies by location.

Multiple locations; cristinasmex.com

The String Bean | Southern

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult dinner entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger.

Dine-in only.

1310 W. Campbell Road, Richardson; thestringbean.com

TUESDAY

Hat Creek Burger Company | Burgers

Burgers are half off on Family Night from 5–9pm. Deals from $2.25.

Multiple locations; hatcreekburgers.com Luna Grill | Mediterranean

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult meal after 4pm. Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger. All day at Dallas location.

8165 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 1300, Dallas; 1419 E. Renner Road, Suite 510, Richardson; lunagrill.com Pluckers | American

Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger. Drinks not included.

5100 Belt Line Road, Suite 520, Addison; 5500 Greenville Ave., Suite 406, Dallas; pluckers.com Slater’s 50/50 | Burgers

Kids age 12 and younger eat free from the kids menu with purchase of an adult entree, all day. This location only.

2817 Greenville Ave., Dallas; slaters5050.com Texadelphia | Deli

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Dine-in only. Details vary by location.

Multiple locations; texadelphia.com

WEDNESDAY

Braindead Brewing | American

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger.

2625 Main St., Dallas; braindeadbrewing.com Charco Broiler | Steakhouse

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

413 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas; charcodallas.com Colter’s Texas Bar-B-Q | Barbecue

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult

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Luby’s | Cafeteria

Free kids plate with purchase of an adult dinein meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered on Saturday. Details vary by location.

Multiple locations; lubys.com Penne Pomodoro | Italian

Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult entree after 4pm. Age 12 and younger.

Dine-in only. Deal offered all day at the Preston Road location.

1924 Abrams Parkway, Dallas; 11661 Preston Road, Suite 143, Dallas; pennepomodoro.com

THURSDAY

Jason’s Deli | American

Free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Details might vary by location.

5400 E. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas; jasonsdeli.com Beto’s Mexican Restaurant | Tex-Mex

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

2530 W. Interstate 20, Grand Prairie; eatatbetos.com El Chico Café | Tex-Mex

Kids age 12 and younger eat for 99 cents from the Little Amigos menu with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Dine-in only. Details vary by location.

1111 N. Interstate 35 E., DeSoto; 503 Interstate 30, Rockwall; elchico.com

Kids meals from $3.99. All ages. Details vary by location.

9780 Walnut St. Suite 270, Dallas; crab-station.com El Fenix | Tex-Mex

Kids meals cost $4.99. Age 12 and younger.

Multiple locations; elfenix.com Hook Line & Sinker | Seafood

McAlister’s Deli | Deli

Kids meals cost $1.99 when you dine in and $2.99 for takeout. Age 12 and younger. Details vary by location.

Multiple locations; mcalistersdeli.com Samee’s Pizza Getti | Italian

Kids eat for $4.95. Age 12 and younger.

561 E. Interstate 30, Rockwall; sameespizzagetti.com Start | American

Kids meals from $3. All ages. Details might vary by location.

4814 Greenville Ave., Dallas; 4023 Lemmon Ave., Dallas; startrestaurant.net Thai Box | Asian

Kids meals from $4.25. All ages.

4816 Belt Line Road, Addison; thaiboxusa.com Torchy’s Tacos | Tex-Mex

SATURDAY

Free kids entree with purchase of an adult entree from 11am–1pm. Age 12 and younger.

1114 S. Elm St., Suite 100, Carrollton; elrincontx.com

Twisted Root | Burgers Kids meals starting at $4. All ages.

Multiple locations; twistedrootburgerco.com

EVERY DAY

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen | American

Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. Deal offered all day on Saturday. Closed Sunday.

3317 Inwood Road, Dallas; bigalsbbq.com

Velvet Taco | Tex-Mex

Big Al’s Smokehouse | Barbecue

The Biscuit Bar | Breakfast

Kids meals from $4.50. Age 12 and younger.

6501 Hillcrest Ave., Dallas; 2505 Pacific Ave, Suite 150, Dallas; thebiscuit.bar Blatt Beer & Table | Burgers

Kids meals from $4. All ages.

7859 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas; blattbeer.com Bread Winners Café | American

Kids meals from $5. All ages. Details might vary by location.

Multiple locations; breadwinnerscafe.com

Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult meal after 4pm. Age 12 and younger.

Dine-in only. Details might vary by location.

Multiple locations; unleavened.com

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Kids meals starting at $3. All ages. Details might vary by location.Multiple locations; velvettaco.com

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Yolk | Breakfast

Kids meals from $4 with purchase of an adult entree. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

1722 Routh St., Suite 132, Dallas; 8315 Westchester Drive, Dallas; eatyolk.com Zoës Kitchen | Mediterranean Kids meals from $3.99. All ages. Details might vary by location.

Multiple locations; zoeskitchen.com

FIND OUR FULL LIST OF LOCAL KIDS EAT CHEAP AND KIDS EAT FREE DEALS AT DFWCHILD.COM. BE SURE TO CALL BEFORE YOU GO, AS DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. KNOW OF ONE WE MISSED? EMAIL US AT EDITORIAL@DFWCHILD.COM.

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Kids meals from $3.75. Age 12 and younger.

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Kids meals from $2.50. All ages. Details might vary by location.

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El Rincon Mexican Kitchen | Tex-Mex

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20 F A M I L Y - F R I E N D L Y E V E N T S Y O U C A N ’ T M I S S I N

JA N UA RY

now may be the right time for the Gaylord’s real-life winter wonderland of colorful ice sculptures, hand-carved from more than 2 million pounds of ice and modeled after scenes from the Charlie Brown holiday film. The exhibit remains open through the first weekend of January, so don’t miss your chance to experience the two-story ice slides, ice skating and snow tubing.

Prices vary by activity. ICE! tickets are $23.99 for adults and $14.99 for children. Open New Year’s Day. 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine christmasatgaylordtexan.com JAN. 17 // GET INSPIRED BY FOURTH AND FIFTH GRADERS’ ORIGINAL SPEECHES AT THE 28TH ANNUAL MLK JR. ORATORY COMPETITION.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL AINSWORTH; PLANO METROPOLITAN BALLET; VOGEL ALCOVE; DALLAS ZOO

DAY 1 DALLAS

DR PE PPE R BAL L PARK & E M BAS SY SUI T E S C ON V E N T ION C E N T E R January 1 The New Year’s Day family fest that started in Dallas moves to Frisco this year. Let the kids sleep in, then join the crafts and games, starting at 3pm, leading up to the fireworks show at 7pm. Tickets are $5; free for children 2 years and younger. Proceeds benefit Vogel Alcove, a local nonprofit that helps children recover from the traumatic effects of homelessness.

7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco day1dallas.com

THE ADVENTURES OF TINKERBELLE

C OU RT YARD T H EAT E R January 3–18 A mad scientist cloning bunnies, a circus ringmaster with clowns— expect these and more new characters in this original fairy-tale ballet presented by the young dancers of Plano Metropolitan

Ballet. Audience interaction is needed to help keep Tinkerbelle’s spark alive, so get your tickets online for $18.

After each show, the whole Tinkerbelle cast will be out in the lobby to sign autographs and take pictures. Stay after select shows for a Q&A with the cast.

1509 Ave. H, Plano planometballet.org

FAMILY DAYS AT BUILDING TOYS AND TOY BUILDINGS

ARCH ITECTU R E & DESIGN EXCHANGE January 4 and 18 Did your kids love riding the Texas Star at the State Fair?

Take a look at the 6-foot-tall K’Nex Ferris wheel made with 8,550 pieces, among other vintage and modern toys (also including the Eames House of Cards), on exhibit through Jan. 25.

Come on these two special family days for your budding architects to play with Lego blocks and TinkerToys in the Construction Zone. FREE

325 N. Saint Paul St., Suite 150, Dallas dallasadex.org

THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK

NORT HPA RK CE NT E R Through January 5 After your holiday staycation, make a coast-to-coast journey via this miniature train exhibit of 1,600 feet of track and scenes from landmarks across America—only open for one more week. Take a closer look to see recognizable locations in Dallas, plus some visitors from outer space. Tickets are $7 adults; $4 children ages 2–12; free for children under 2. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.

Hand-painted railcars also available for purchase and to keep after the exhibit closes.

Open New Year’s Day. 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas thetrainsatnorthpark.com

DALLAS ZOO LIGHTS

DA LL AS ZO O Through January 5 The holidays are over, but the animals at the Dallas Zoo wouldn’t know it. Come see the light displays and animalshaped lanterns at ZooNorth during the event’s last days of the season. Be sure to arrive early to see the animals before they turn in for the night (around

4pm) and stay to see the lights flip on at 5pm. Animal encounters begin every 30 minutes at the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo. Free with regular admission ($17 adults; $14 children ages 3–11).

650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas dallaszoo.com

FIRST TUESDAYS AT THE DMA

DA LL AS MU SEUM OF ART January 7 Drop into the museum’s Center for Creative Connections (C3) between 11am and 2pm for fun with Arturo (the museum’s family mascot) storytime with a librarian in the C3 Theater and artmaking activities in the Art Studio based on this month’s theme, “M is for Music.”

Ready for a walk through the art galleries? Join an interactive tour of the museum’s collection led by education staff, and find more fun at the pop-up art spots with creative games and

ICE! FEATURING A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

G AYLORD T E X A N Through January 5 With the Christmas rush over,

JAN. 1 // ADMISSION TO THE CRAFTS, GAMES AND FIREWORKS SHOW AT DAY 1 DALLAS BENEFITS THE NONPROFIT VOGEL ALCOVE.

dfwchild.com / january 2020

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activities placed around the museum galleries. FREE 1717 N. Harwood St., Dallas dma.org

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

MOODY PERFORMANCE HALL January 10–19 You might say that Elizabeth Bennet, the protagonist of Jane Austen’s beloved novel, was a feminist before it was cool—or accepted by society. Revisit Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s meeting and all the misunderstandings that follow when Shakespeare Dallas stages this production (indoors, so no fighting the cold!). Tickets from $26.50.

2520 Flora St., Dallas shakespearedallas.org

BLUE MAN GROUP

WIN SPE AR OPE R A HOUSE January 15–19 Feeling blue during this post-holiday winter?

Get the pick-meup of a lifetime via this performance (part rock concert, part comedy show) by the bald, blue-from-headto-toe trio. Witness Blue Man Group pound on custom-made drums and elicit laughs from the crowd without ever saying a word.

Recommended for ages 5 and older. Runs 90 minutes with no intermission.

2403 Flora St., Dallas attpac.org

MLK JR. ORATORY COMPETITION

W.H . A DAM S ON HIG H S CHO OL January 17 In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, a group of fourth and fifth graders from Dallas Independent School District follow in his footsteps by competing in this 28th annual public speaking event. Take your own kiddo on Friday morning to hear the students give original speeches answering “What would Dr. King’s vision be for America in 2020?” FREE 309 E. Ninth St., Dallas dallasisd.org

CALENDAR FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO

W ILL RO GER S MEMOR IAL CENTER January 17–February 8 The pride of Cowtown returns for 23 days, featuring livestock shows, mutton bustin’ and carnival rides—and the first season of rodeo competitions inside Dickies Arena. Cheering on the daredevil, bull-riding cowboys in the brand-new arena will be worth the drive over to the western half of DFW. Rodeo tickets include Stock Show general admission, which otherwise costs $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6–16 (free for age 5 and younger). $25 gets you reserved seating at Sundance Square Plaza for the All Western Parade through downtown Saturday, Jan. 18, and access to the face painters and balloon artists.

3400 Burnett Tandy Drive, Fort Worth fwssr.com

DALLAS AREA TRAIN SHOW

PL ANO CENTR E January 18–19 Did the Trains at NorthPark exhibit pique your child’s interest in model trains? Bring your beginner hobbyists to this annual Plano meetup organized by the North Texas Council of Railroad Clubs. You’ll get to see all types of at-home displays, talk with experts, learn how to create your own home layout and possibly win some door prizes to get you started. $10 (cash only at the door); free for children age 12 and younger. $5 for rides on the Choo Choo Express trackless train.

2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano dfwtrainshows.com

PJ MASKS LIVE!

W INSPEAR OPER A HOU SE January 20 Kids by day, crimefighters in pajamas by night. Watch the animated trio moonlight as animal-masked adventurers Catboy, Owlette and Gekko

in this live musical show featuring new friend PJ Robot as well as villains Romeo, Night Ninja and Luna Girl. Tickets from $25. Upgrade for a post-show meet and greet and photo op with the three superheroes.

2403 Flora St., Dallas attpac.org

HONK!

WILLOW BE ND CE NT E R F OR T HE A RT S January 24–February 1 If New Year’s resolutions and striving to be our best selves are a topic in your family this month, consider this story that expands on the traditional “Ugly Duckling” tale. The all-ages musical by Stiles & Drewe stars Ugly (an unfortunate name to begin with), who goes on an adventure of self-discovery. $10 in advance; $12 starting Jan. 20; $20 for premium seats.

6121 W. Park Blvd., Suite B216, Plano northtexasperformingarts.org

KIDFILM FESTIVAL

ANG E LIKA FILM C E NT E R DA LL AS January 25–26 See some of your favorite children’s books adapted for the big screen at KidFilm, the country’s oldest and largest family film festival. Authors and illustrators making appearances include Christopher Eliopoulos of the new PBS Kids series Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. Authors will sign free books after their programs, and free tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning one hour before each showtime. FREE 5321 E. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas usafilmfestival.com

SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE!

DA LL AS CHILDRE N’ S T HE AT E R January 25–February 23 This live production carries on the educational Saturday morning TV series from the ’70s for a new generation.

Here’s your chance to sing along to “Just a Bill” and “Conjunction Junction” and share with your kids this cult classic animated show that made it more fun to learn English, history, science and math. Recommended for age 5 and older. Tickets from $17.

5938 Skillman St., Dallas dct.org

MAGIC TREE HOUSE: SHOWTIME WITH SHAKESPEARE

JAN. 10–19 // HAVEN’T PICKED UP PRIDE AND PREJUDICE SINCE HIGH SCHOOL? GET REACQUAINTED WITH THE CLASSIC THIS MONTH.

48

january 2020 / dfwchild.com

WYLY T HE AT RE January 30–31 The best-selling children’s book series by Mary Pope

YEAR OF THE RAT 2020 is the Year of the Rat on the zodiac calendar—a tradition for a number of Asian cultures. Celebrate by scurrying out to events near you, including a Japanese heritage festival, a Chinese New Year celebration and performances by a Chinese dance company touring the world.

SHEN YUN

WINSPE A R OPE R A HOUSE January 5 and 25–26 E ISE MA NN CE NT E R January 11–12 Shen Yun translates to “the beauty of divine beings dancing,” and nothing could be closer to the truth.

Do not miss this touring production that revives centuries of ancient Chinese culture and mythology through dance, with accompaniment by a live orchestra of both Chinese and Western instruments. Note that kids must be 4 years or older to attend. Tickets from $80.

2403 Flora St., Dallas 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson shenyun.com/dfw

MOCHITSUKI NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATION

FUJIT SU NET WORK C OMMUNICAT IONS, I NC .

January 12 Dress up in traditional kimonos, see your names written in Japanese calligraphy called kakizome and clap along during the mochitsuki, the ceremonial pounding of boiled rice into mochi (rice cakes) with large wooden mallets—performed this year by Consul General Hideo Fukushima. Cash or check only at the door.

Admission is $10 adults; $5 for adult members of the JapanAmerica Society of Dallas-Fort Worth; $3 children ages 6–12; free for 5 years and younger.

2801 Telecom Parkway, Richardson jasdfw.org

CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL

NORT HPA RK CE NT E R February 1 Join in the celebration honoring the Year of the Rat with dragon and lion dances, musical and martial arts performances and more, presented at NorthPark by the Crow Museum of Asian Art of the University of Texas at Dallas. You won’t want to miss out on the Saturday afternoon art making, including everything from traditional Chinese calligraphy and red envelope decorating to paper-cutting demonstrations and a craft inspired by the Year of the Rat. FREE 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas crowmuseum.org

Osborne meets hip-hop in this new musical.

The Magic Tree House transports siblings Jack and Annie to Elizabethan-era England, where they meet William Shakes-

peare himself and learn that the show must go on. See one of four morning or afternoon performances for $10 per seat.

2400 Flora St., Dallas attpac.org

F O R M O R E F A M I LY- F R I E N D LY F U N T H I S M O N T H , C H E C K O U R O N L I N E C A L E N D A R A T DFWCHILD.COM/CALENDAR. A N D W H I L E Y O U ’ R E T H E R E , S I G N U P F O R O U R W E E K LY E - N E W S L E T T E R : THE WEEKEND GUIDE.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLUE MAN GROUP; JORDAN FRAKER PHOTOGRAPHY; YASMEEN FAHMY; ©ISTOCK

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confessions

MOM TRUTHS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN

CO M P I L E D BY E M I LY Y E A R W O O D

MY SON I told my kids the other day that one day, I ASKED MY SAYS ‘FOXY’ they won’t want to fart in front of others. My 2-YEAR-OLD responded, ‘Oh no, if I see a girl, I don’t fart. I INSTEAD OF son SON IF HE squeeze my butt cheeks!’”

THE WORD WANTED TO HAVE MILK ‘FOX.’ BEFORE “When my 5-year-old said he “When my daughter didn’t want the potty ‘booster’ was 2, she got upset WITH DINNER. HE STARTED seat and could get on the toilet WHEN I that I would not I took a step back.

DOING THIS, himself, share my snack with OPENED THE But he wasn’t gripping the WE BOUGHT sides of the seat yet, so he fell her. But I could not FRIDGE, HE bottom-first into the water. deny her on her third HIM A WINTER LOOKED AT He promptly told me I was the attempt, when she ‘worst mom ever.’

I responded, ME DEADPAN COAT WITH A ‘What about moms who get responded to my AND SAID, FOX PATTERN arrested? Am I worse than ‘No’ with ‘Sharing is ‘HOW ’BOUT A He frowned, ‘I’m not caring, Mommy!’ Well ON IT, SO NOW them?’ talking about them. You’re the COKE?”’ played, kiddo.” worst of the nice moms.’”

THAT HE’S WEARING IT, I placed our newly purchased box of doughnuts on the car HE PATS HIS while getting the kids buckled up. The 2-year-old had a meltdown, and I slid into the driver’s seat and tried to shut out the COAT AND Got a funny parenting moment noise. As I drove forward, I watched the doughnuts slide off the you’d like to share? We’d love to SAYS, ‘FOXY!”’ hood. I hear my 2-year-old, now over her meltdown, calmly say, hear from you. Send it to —TRACY, PLANO

—ALEXIS, BEDFORD

—HEATHER, FRISCO

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january 2020 / dfwchild.com

editorial@dfwchild.com.

—LAURA, LAS COLINAS

—ALEX, DALLAS

“Mom, our doughnuts just fell in the street.” —WHITNEY, DALLAS

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