DallasChild March 2019

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

M A R C H 2019

CRAZY SPORTS PARENTS WHAT YOUR SIDELINE SCREAMING IS DOING TO THE KIDS

11 COOL READING PLACES AND SPACES

spec ia

sing section: erti dv a l

*

GUIDE TO SPRING FAMILY FUN

21

CAN’T-MISS EVENTS THIS MONTH

MEET GOLD MEDALIST

CARLY PATTERSON CALDWELL

ENCOURAGING YOUR CHILD’S ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

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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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Zachary, 9 Sports Medicine

ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER

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pages / M A R C H

2019

DEPARTMENTS NOTED 11 Like a Boss

How (and why) to help your child start their own business

REAL MOMS 15 Mom Next Door /

Carly Patterson Caldwell

Since winning Olympic gold, the retired gymnast has faced infertility, new parenthood and now, adding baby No. 2 to her family 18 5 Things / Balancing Act

The apps, workouts and motivational tips our Mom Next Door relies on for life with littles 20 Routines / Nicole Jackson Homeschooling means getting out and about for the single mom and her son

KID CULTURE 35 Get Lit(erary)

You’ll want to hang out at these 11

18

35 ABOVE // A wall of flowers decorates the story time area at Interabang Books.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DALLAS PUBLIC LIBRARY; CARLY PATTERSON CALDWELL; ©ISTOCK

FEATURE

DALLAS COUNTY LOCAVORE 49 Influencer / Divya Lal 18-year-old Divya Lal is teaching kids the importance of proper pet care

52 Playground / Lake Highlands Park

How safe (and fun) is this Dallas park?

22 Foul Play When parents yell from the sidelines, their kids suffer the penalty—lifelong emotional harm words Leeanne Rebic Hay additional reporting Carrie Steingruber

ON THE COVER

22

local reading spaces 59 The Agenda

Our favorite family events this month

54 Kids Eat Free

Dallas-area restaurants with deals for every day of the week

COLUMNS

6 Hello / Stick the Landing

An introduction to our March issue Cover Kid: Callie, 12, of Dallas Photography: Cindy James Hair/Makeup Styling: Gary Parson/ Kim Dawson Agency Styling/Art Direction: Lauren Niebes

words Carrie Steingruber 9 dfwchild.com / Off the Pages

What to look for on our website this month words Alexis Manrodt

62 Confessions / Mommy Fails

When bad things happen to good parents

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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hello / E D I T O R ’ S

NOTE

stick the landing

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CARRIE STEINGRUBER

ABOVE // The editor rehearses for a gymnastics performance that was not medal-winning.

W

HEN CARLY PATTERSON STUCK

the landing on her double Arabian beam dismount in Athens, I think I screamed. That beam routine vaulted her into first place in the 2004 Olympic all-around finals, and a clutch performance on floor cemented her spot in U.S. gymnastics history (and on the front of a Wheaties box). Though she practically floated on beam, it was tough for Carly to find her footing after retiring from gymnastics due to injury—she struggled with uncertainty about her career path, and then with infertility. But as you’ll read in our interview with Carly on page 15, she’s starting a new routine as a stay-at-home mom here in McKinney. The elements may not be as flashy as that gold medal–winning dismount, and like all parents she won’t stick the landing every time, but it’s no less of a success story.

In the long run it’s a good thing that parents don’t always stick the landing. Kids learn how to fail gracefully by watching their parents pick themselves up off the mat, make changes and move on with their messy, chaotic lives.

Unfortunately failing well is a skill that a lot of millennials like me failed to acquire growing up. Combine that with our generation’s perfectionism, and yikes. The fear of failure keeps us from taking risks; millennials are less keen on entrepreneurship for that very reason, according to a widely cited 2014 Babson College survey. And our kids are watching.

Lately there’s been a cultural shift toward glorifying failure, and that doesn’t feel right either. We don’t want our kids to shrug off a poor decision because it’ll make for a more compelling TED Talk someday. But admitting and adapting to failure is a vital skill to pass on early, and encouraging kids to start their own business can help—see page 11.

Participating in youth sports is a good practice field for failure too because the stakes are pretty low (unless your 16-year-old is competing for Olympic gold). Of course, our kids will not learn to fail with grace if we act like every game is a life-or-death cage match. Yelling at the coach, yelling over the coach, insulting the ref—it all sends the message that winning is everything and throwing a tantrum is the right response when something goes wrong. In fact, as Leeanne Rebic Hay explains on page 22, our sideline rage can have long-term emotional repercussions. If we want our kids to stick the landing as adults, to not be paralyzed by the fear of failure, we need to examine how we act in the bleachers—and next time we get a little too invested in that soccer game, leave the Hulking out to Mark Ruffalo.

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online / D F W C H I L D . C O M WORDS ALEXIS MANRODT

OFF THE PAGES

what’s in store this month on dfwchild.com

BPBC

where kids become kids again

Beckloff

Pediatric Behavioral Center

New Beginnings Start Here

ABOVE // A pickle parade is one of the kidfriendly St. Patrick’s Day events in our online guide.

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME IS SET TO BEGIN MARCH 10, so as we spring forward (and lose an hour), plan your schedules wisely because there is so much to do in North Texas. In March, we’re all about sports, so let’s kick things off with the best local sports leagues, classes, races and fun runs for the whole family. Also on the website, we have the scoop on kid-friendly festivities to celebrate Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day … and even National Reading Month. Be sure to bookmark dfwchild.com/ events to stay on top of all the events you don’t want to miss this month.

Game Plan

Now that the weather should be getting nicer, get your family off the sidelines and into physical fitness. Check out our roundup of sports leagues for your littles to join this spring, or get the whole brood on board for one of the city’s many family-friendly races and fun runs.

©ISTOCK; PHOTOS COURTESY OF PICKLED MANSFIELD SOCIETY; UNIVERSITY PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY

Novel Ideas

March is National Reading Month, and we’re celebrating with a stack of old friends. On the website, get to know the community members leading local literacy initiatives. Also check out the most popular titles from local bookstores in Dallas-Fort Worth. Looking for more destinations for literary littles? Turn to page 35 in this issue for our roundup of the best bookstores and libraries for kids in North Texas.

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

Let us get to work.

Holiday, Yay!

Struggling to find ways to celebrate those more grown-up holidays (we’re looking at you, Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day) with kids in tow? Check out our guides to familyfriendly festivities around North Texas.

17210 Campbell Road, Suite 200 Dallas, TX 75252 972-250-1700 www.drbeckloff.com dfwchild.com / march 2019

9

Pursue your passion for dance and earn a free college degree in high school.

Incoming ninth-graders: Apply by March 31 to the W.T. White Fine Arts Collegiate Academy INFORMATION SESSION: 6-8 p.m. | Tuesday, March 5, 2019 W.T. White High School 4505 Ridgeside Dr. | Dallas 75244 QUESTIONS? Call 972.925.5481

OPENING AUGUST 2019

APPLY ONLINE AT: www.dallasisd.org/WTWhiteFineArtsCollegiate

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

noted.

LIKE A BOSS

nurturing your kid’s entrepreneurial spirit ©ISTOCK

WORDS

KRISTY RAMIREZ

T

HE WIND RIPPED MY SON AND

daughter’s sign in half almost as soon as we exited the car.

Undeterred, they taped the items they’d worked on for months to a table—the opportunity to sell their handmade products at the homeschool crafting fair awaited, and not even a cold, December wind was going to stop them.

This was our second year participating in the crafting fair, and I couldn’t believe how seasoned my kids seemed. Table set up and cash box at the ready, they worked

for two hours, sometimes walking their products from booth to booth when business slowed. My introverted son came out of his shell to explain to customers how he’d designed his Perler bead creations before negotiating prices.

It’s not just money kidpreneurs stand to gain when they start their own businesses, though revenue is a nice incentive.

Entrepreneurship can teach skills that stick with kids for life: creative thinking, learning from failure and financial literacy, to name a few. dfwchild.com / march 2019

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noted / L I K E

Behavioral Concerns?

Let’s Get It Started

• Anxiety • Depression • Neuropsychological Disorders

Marcy L. Berry, MD, FAAP BOARD CERTIFIED IN PEDIATRICS

Concerning behavior can be a symptom of many neurological or psychological diagnoses, not bad parenting. As a mother of a child with Special Needs, I understand the unique challenges faced in every aspect of your lives and the ripple effect they have on the entire family.

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Parents can help by asking the right Kidpreneurs start to view their community questions and responding appropriately— differently too, Thomas adds. They see local whether their child succeeds or fails. business owners as people just like them who Former kidpreneur Charlie Gasmire followed a passion. “[They see that] they can credits his father with sparking his interest make a living doing what they love,” she says. in entrepreneurship at a young age. “Dad Erin is saving for the art studio she’d like gave me ideas to think about, and advice,” to open one day while also donating some Gasmire says. “He introduced different of her profits to charity. Jackson believes activities.” For example, Gasmire had his encouraging her daughter to pursue someown lemonade stand and shoe shining thing she already had a talent for helped banbusiness as a child. Now he’s founded Boss ish the negativity that plagued her after her Club, a company that offers ADHD diagnosis. Months advice and entrepreneurial after opening her own busistarter kits so that kids can ness, Erin’s people skills have Nonprofit organization try their hand at business improved, her confidence Lemonade Day offers a free with guidance. is up and she is involved online program for kids to “Guidance” is the key in helping her commulearn business skills and host word—Jan Murfield, presinity—and Jackson recently good ol’ fashioned lemonade dent of Junior Achievement stands, including a nationwide watched her daughter accept of Dallas, suggests that par- day for kids to open for busiher second perseverance ents pose practical questions ness—mark your calendars for award at school. That’s the to their budding business purpose of Erin’s business, May 4 and register to particiowners while letting the Jackson says: “to inspire kids pate at lemonadeday.org. kids lead: How much do and adults to never give up.”

At the Acton Children’s you want to charge for your Business Fair, which was startproduct? What materials NOT TOO SMALL TO ed by a couple in Austin, kids and money will you need FAIL set up booths and sell their to get started? How are you creations to a crowd. Wylie Not every kid-founded busigoing to advertise? ness will succeed though— and Dallas are hosting their These questions force and that’s a good thing. first-ever events this year, on children to consider their March 16 and Aug. 17, respec- Entrepreneurship gives kids options and choose the best tively. When kids apply online, the opportunity to practice path forward, honing their they will be asked to develop a the art of failing gracefully, creative and critical thinkstrategy that includes funding but the reverse is true as ing skills through a topic well: Learning how to deal and advertising. Check the they’re already interested in. website for other local cities with failure can encourage entrepreneurship because to announce their fairs: childDOING WHAT starting a business is always rensbusinessfair.org.

THEY LOVE a risk. It might go well and Charlie Gasmire’s Boss Club creates “build-a-business it might not, but kids who Lewisville elementary kits” to help kids start their student Erin Malone was have been taught how to embarrassed by a diagnosis own companies—for example, handle failure are more the homemade dog treat kit of attention deficit hyperlikely to step out and try. includes baking ingredients, activity disorder. She was “Kids learn from the labels, flyers, coupons, thankhaving trouble in school experience whether they sucyou notes and an instruction both academically and ceed or fail, and that’s what manual. From $39.99; shop at you want,” says Murfield. behaviorally and was dealbossclub.com. ing with constant negative When things go south, self-talk. But her love for parents should acknowledge art never waned. So Erin’s mom, Sherrie the progress their children have made and Jackson, asked her daughter if she wanted stress that learning from mistakes is part of to turn her creative interest into a business. growing. Helping kids reframe a business fail Now 8 years old, she runs a successful is key: What went right? What went wrong? accessories business called Essentials from What would they have done differently?

Erin. She chooses the items for her customParents can’t just talk the talk, though—a ers, packs them up and even helps manage 2016 study published in Psychological Science the cash box at events. revealed that a parent’s attitude about failure According to Jessica Thomas, the largely impacts their child’s attitude about director of education at Fort Worth-based their own ability to succeed and grow. Kids Junior Achievement of the Chisholm watch how parents handle their own situaTrail, handling their own money helps tions when things don’t go as planned. kids understand the difference between Gasmire says his dad helped him see wants and needs, and they start to failure as a learning experience rather than a recognize the hard work that goes into debilitating setback. “You learn more and maintaining a business. apply it to tomorrow, win or lose,” he explains.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLATIRON BOOKS ; FREERANGEKIDS.COM

• Autism • ADD/ADHD • Learning Disorders

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real moms. mom next door /

CARLY PATTERSON CALDWELL olympic gold medalist INTERVIEW NICOLE JORDAN

C ABOVE //

PHOTO COURTESY OF CARLY PATTERSON CALDWELL

ARLY PATTERSON CALDWELL

is no stranger to balance. In the early aughts, she danced, leapt and tumbled her way across a 4-inch-wide balance beam to cinch gold at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games. She was the first American in 20 years (the second ever) to win the women’s all-around Olympic gymnastics title, cementing her status as an American legend.

At the age of 18, Caldwell was diagnosed with bulging discs and announced her retirement from the sport. In the years since, she’s embraced life after the Olympics, redefining herself and her definition of success.

The McKinney mom has experimented with singing, writing and motivational speaking, a career she enjoys to this day.

Now 31, she’s reinventing herself once again as a wife and a mom of two. (Just before this issue went to press, Caldwell gave birth early to Emmaline Rae.) (Continued on the next page)

When three become four: The Caldwell family before the birth of their newest addition, a baby girl.

ALL ABOUT CARLY AGE 31 LIVES IN McKinney HAILS FROM Allen (via Baton Rouge) ALMA MATER Texas Woman’s University SIGNIFICANT OTHER Mark Caldwell, senior manager at

Accenture OFFSPRING 1-year-old Graham and newborn Emmaline CAREER HIGHLIGHTS 2004 Olympics: All-Around Gold Medalist, Team Silver Medalist, Beam Silver Medalist; 2004 U.S. National Co-Champion; 2003 World Championships: Gold Medal Team, Silver Medal All-Around “ME” TIME RITUAL “Going to the grocery store by myself or getting in a workout, pedicure or facial. Long walks are great and I’m part of a weekly Bible study that I always look forward to.” dfwchild.com / march 2019

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“I was able to work hard and achieve amazing goals for myself and for my country, but that’s not what defines my life and my happiness,” says Caldwell. “A lot of athletes struggle with finding happiness after their sport because it’s a completely different life. I’m thankful for what I was able to accomplish but happy to be able to enjoy life after gymnastics.”

In stark contrast to her competitive years, Caldwell’s current day-to-day requires a different kind of balance—and true to form, she’s taking it all in stride.

DallasChild: Congratulations on baby number two! Carly Patterson Caldwell: Thank you!

Exactly four weeks from today we’ll be heading in to have our C-section and meet the baby. It took us two years to get pregnant with Graham, and we went through fertility treatment, so to have him and then to get pregnant so easy on the second go-round was a sweet surprise.

DC: Can you share a little bit about your fertility journey? CPC: We

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newborns ® to toddlers

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DC: You entered your 30s and became a mom all within a year. How are you feeling in your skin these days? CPC: I feel like I’ve

been in the trenches with motherhood—just getting through the first year and trying to adjust to being a new parent. It’s not about you anymore. People make it look really easy—and maybe that’s just social media these days—but it’s not. Until you experience it, you just don’t get how difficult it is. Most of the time, being able to get my hair straightened or my face washed is a challenge.

“I JUST NEED TO ENJOY BEING A MOM.”

DC: Was it difficult to put work on hold?

CPC: I’m going through

a period of not really knowing what’s next for me. I’ve always had goals, but now I’m busy being a mom 24/7. It’s amazing and something I prayed for, but it was hard for me to realize this is where I need to be. I don’t need to have anything on the side.

I just need to enjoy being a mom. Being a full-time stay-at-home mom is the most important thing for

tried normally on our own for about a year, and nothing was happening. Finally, I talked to my doctor and got started on Clomid.

It didn’t work, so we talked with a fertility doctor and realized I have polycystic ovary syndrome and some other things that lower my chances of getting pregnant on my own.

We started our first round of fertility treatment and got pregnant but had a miscarriage. Ultimately, we did three intrauterine insemination cycles, and on the third one, we got pregnant with Graham.

me to do right now.

curve balls, but we’re in that sweet spot where he’s walking but stable, and you don’t have to constantly trail behind him. We know exactly what’s coming in a month, so we’re trying to enjoy every little moment of down time. I can’t imagine what our house is going to look and feel like. It’s going to be chaotic. Parenting is very hard. It’s definitely the hardest thing we’ve ever done.

DC: How does your unique upbringing shape the way you approach parenting? CPC:

DC: Do you feel like you’re in the groove with Graham, now that he’s almost 1 1/2?

CPC: I do for the most part. There are

DC: Are you nervous about adding a second to the mix? CPC: I am. It’s definitely

everything for

how people do it without family nearby. I’m super lucky.

going to be a challenge. My husband is taking a nice, long eight-week paternity leave, so that will be a huge help.

DC: What’s your support system like?

CPC: Luckily, my husband’s parents and

my mom live right down the street from us. They’ll come over and help anytime. I rely on them a lot. Honestly, I don’t know

DC: Do you look forward to returning to motivational speaking when the kids are older?

CPC: I do. That’s still something I want to do.

I enjoy sharing my story and what I’ve been through—getting through things like injuries and dealing with failure. I would love to be able to share our fertility journey too. Reading others’ stories helped me so much.

DC: Was it difficult for you to find your identity after retiring from gymnastics? CPC:

Absolutely. What do you do when you accomplish a goal so early? How do you know what’s next for you? It was a lot of trial and error.

My husband and I have totally different backgrounds, so I think we make a balanced parenting duo. I want my kids to try different things. I want to see what they like and excel at. Gymnastics was always my choice. I wanted to be in the gym seven hours every day.

My mom didn’t push me. It was my passion.

I hope my kids are able to find that passion.

The way I grew up was hard, but I wouldn’t change it for anything.

DC: It’s been more than a decade since you won gold. When you look back on that time, what do you feel? CPC: It seems so far away

at this point. It’s not a conversation topic in our household very often. The older I get the prouder I am of what I did. I realize how big it was.

KIDS GO ALL IN. SO DO WE.

We’re 10,000 strong all united in one goal — to help your child get back to being a kid. KIDS RULE.

childrens.com

real moms / 5 INTERVIEW

THINGS …

NICOLE JORDAN

BALANCING ACT carly patterson caldwell’s tricks of the (parenting) trade

FO R LE A R N I N G TH E RO PE S

‘‘

RIGHT NOW I’M READING TOUGH STUFF PARENTING BY THE PASTORS OF MY CHURCH [PRESTON TRAIL COMMUNITY CHURCH]. WITH GRAHAM, I USED THE GLOW BABY APP TO TIME OUR NURSING SESSIONS AND KEEP UP WITH HIS MILESTONES. I ALSO ENJOYED THE WONDER WEEKS APP BECAUSE IT TELLS YOU WHAT YOUR BABY IS LEARNING AND EXPERIENCING.

2

3 takeaways from Caldwell’s motivational speeches g “The hard work we put into things will always show up. It might not be when we want. But if we put in the time and effort, we will see our hard work pay off.” g “Success requires resilience. I learned that through failure.

Being able to bounce back and learn from my mistakes is what shaped me into the athlete and person I am.” g “Make decisions from a place of freedom and not fear. After my career as a gymnast, there were things I did for the wrong reason because I thought I had to. I learned the only way to go after something in your life is to do it from a place of freedom.

I’m going to be the person I believe is right for me.”

FO R A D U LT S- O N LY TIM E

4

3

FO R G E T TI N G O UT WITH A TO D D LE R

WE LOVE STROLLING THE AISLES OF TARGET, ESPECIALLY ON A COLD DAY WHEN WE NEED TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE. PLAYDATES WITH FRIENDS AND COUSINS ARE ALWAYS FUN. I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO GRAHAM GETTING TO THE AGE THAT HE CAN APPRECIATE GOING TO THE LIBRARY, MUSEUMS AND THE DALLAS ZOO.

‘‘

THE WONDER WEEKS APP // $2.99 (Apple

“My husband and I love to go on date nights to Nobu or Javier's. We also did a lot of traveling together pre-babies, so we like to go on one big trip a year. Last year, we went to Iceland, which was amazing!”

App Store) or $3.49 (Google Play);

NOBU DALLAS // 400 Crescent Court, Dallas. 214/252-7000; noburestaurants.com

DALLAS ZOO // 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway,

thewonderweeks.com

JAVIER’S GOURMET MEXICANO // 4912 Cole Ave., Dallas. 214/521-4211; javiers.net

Dallas. 469/554-7500; dallaszoo.com

TOUGH STUFF PARENTING BY PAUL BASDEN AND JIM JOHNSON // amazon.com

GLOW BABY APP // Free; glowing.com

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

5

TARGET // Multiple locations; target.com

FO R S TAY I N G I N S H A PE “I wasn’t allowed to do much working out while I was pregnant with Graham. But after having him, I enjoyed Title Boxing and Orangetheory classes.”

TITLE BOXING CLUB // Multiple locations; titleboxingclub.com ORANGETHEORY FITNESS // Multiple locations; orangetheoryfitness.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMAZON; DALLAS ZOO; NOBU; ORANGETHEORY

1

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2/4/19 12:13 PM

19

real moms / R O U T I N E S

a Monday in the life of

NICOLE JACKSON Nicole Jackson is a personal trainer and owner of Nikki Jay Fitness. She’s a single mom who homeschools her energetic 7-yearold son, Zion, which entails traveling, play dates, sports and staying close to their church community. The family lives in Addison.

6

AM My alarm goes off. “Nicole, don’t you hit that snooze button,” I tell myself while staring at the ceiling. I manage to get up without hitting snooze—major accomplishment for me.

6:15AM After reading all my emails that got sent overnight, I head for the shower.

6:35AM Deciding what to wear … Let’s do something different—casual-chic, I think.

Then of course, I go to my standard workout tights and athletic tank with a brightcolored pullover. It never fails.

6:45AM I throw on some bronzer, fill in my brows, put on my favorite nude lip color and call it a day.

7AM Morning devotion on our prayer rug (a small section in our home we dedicate to meditation and prayer).

7:25AM I look in the fridge, wondering what breakfast should be. … Coconut milk, banana smoothie with blueberries (shh—between us, there’s a big handful of spinach added too) and a bowl of oatmeal it is! Quick and nutritious.

7:45AM I hear the upstairs bedroom squeaking and a loud thump right on cue. “Good morning, Mommy!” Zion shouts at the top of his lungs. “Good morning, Zion. Brush your teeth and wash your face!” I yell back up.

our breakfast.

8AM The fun part—homeschool! We are doing math and writing and finishing the book Who Was Frederick Douglass? Zion is super excited about only having a few chapters left so he can work on his science project, the infamous erupting volcano. While he reads out loud and works on his question sheet, I get some work done myself by sending out emails to potential clients, creating workouts for my online clients and creating meal plans for the week that must be sent out by noon.

11AM For lunch I make a quick turkey, lettuce and tomato wrap for me and a sandwich for Zion. Once we’re done eating, we head to the gym. He’s excited that he gets to meet with his two friends—who are also homeschooled—in the playroom at our gym. While he catches up with his best buds, I work out.

After my workout, we practice basketball drills together.

1PM We head back home to finish up the rest of Zion’s schoolwork for the day.

3PM I drive Zion to his robotics and coding class. When he’s excited about something, he sings—loudly. I’m guessing he’s pumped right now.

3:15PM With my kiddo dropped off, I head back over to Addison and train at my 30-minute corporate fitness class, which is so much fun.

4:05PM All done. Now I get to stop at Starbucks to get my “mommy treat”—a Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher—and do a quick run to the post office to finally drop off a few packages that have been sitting in my back seat for about a week.

4:35PM Pick Zion up (while praising God that traffic wasn’t too bad today). I mingle a bit with the other parents and let Zion and his friends tell me about the things they did. I smile and pretend I have a clue and understand everything. I’m still trying to understand the new iPhone update, and they are literally building robots and programming them.

5:15PM Off to work I go with Zion in tow.

Today, I have a just-engaged couple who are working toward getting back to the size they were when they first met, in time for their wedding, and my client Nicole, who has been with me for almost two years now. While I train them, Zion steps in and out to check on us and even gives me some pointers.

7PM We drive to Richardson and have dinner with Grandma and my brother Dyland. Since I’ve become busier this year, we try to meet for dinner at least once a week.

8:10PM We head home, and while we are in the car, we play the game “my house.” It’s a game I created when I was little: You get to select houses that you’d like to have or just really like.

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

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLE JACKSON

7:50AM We both sit at the table and enjoy

the fine

print

WHAT SHE’S READING Becoming by Michelle Obama YEARLY DESTINATION Del Mar, California FAVORITE MOVIE War Room DREAM JOB AS A KID I actually wanted to be a coroner. FIRST CELEBRITY CRUSH Morris Chestnut FAVORITE SPOT FOR MOTHERSON BONDING

TIME Corner Bakery at the Galleria. We sit and eat lunch while watching the ice skaters below. FAVORITE SCENT Gucci Guilty BEST PURCHASE EVER My Keurig coffeemaker SECRET TALENT I can re-create almost any dish just by taste, no recipe. BIGGEST PET PEEVE Not being truthful DREAM VACATION Rhodes, Greece CELEBRITY MOM SHE ADMIRES She’s no celebrity but my godmother, Mrs. Joyce Robinson. WORDS SHE LIVES BY Never give someone the power to control your happiness.

DON’T WANT TO MISS THE NEXT ISSUE? GET IT DELIVERED TO YOUR MAILBOX.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMAZON; ©ISTOCK

8:40PM I get Zion tucked into bed, pray

and tell him how much I love him. I used to read to him but now he’s “too big”—he can read by himself now. (Where has the time gone?) I still offer, though.

8:50PM Mommy time. I shower, prep our lunch for tomorrow since I have the extra time, and throw Zion’s basketball jersey, shoes and favorite socks in the washer for his team practice tomorrow.

I curl up on my couch and turn on the TV to catch up on the last two episodes of my favorite show, Greenleaf. This season has left me with my mouth open after each episode. (Give it a try if you haven’t seen it.)

10:45PM Off to bed I go.

Visit dfwchild.com to sign up for free home delivery.

dfwchild.com / march 2019

21

FOU PLA WHEN KIDS DISPLAY BAD SPORTSMANSHIP, THERE’S A PENALTY. WHEN PARENTS YELL FROM THE SIDELINES, THERE’S A PENALTY TOO—LIFELONG EMOTIONAL HARM TO THEIR KIDS.

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

UL AY Y WORDS L E E A N N E R E B I C H AY

ADDITIONAL REPORTING CARRIE STEINGRUBER

O

N AN EARLY SUMMER MORNING WITH A light breeze blowing, a girls’ club soccer game in North Texas was in full swing. Parents cheered on the sidelines—Jenny’s team was winning by several goals, and their star player, Sarah, had just scored again.

Jenny’s dad, Brad (their names have been changed to protect the innocent), remembers that the opposing team’s coach was red-faced and screaming at his goalie. As Sarah walked away from the goal area, Brad says he saw the coach lock eyes with his goalie and quietly give an order to “take her out.” The goalie body-checked Sarah, who went down and had to be taken out of the game. In the commotion of the moment, the referee only saw and called a technical foul against the goalie.

Brad winces as he recalls, “These girls were only 6 years old at the time.”

If you’ve been to even a handful of children’s soccer or baseball games, you know that it’s not just coaches who engage in bad behavior on the sidelines. According to a survey by Reuters and Ipsos, 60 percent of American adults have witnessed a parent attacking a coach or official—verbally or otherwise—at a kids’ sporting event.

(That’s the highest percentage among the 22 countries in the survey, by the way.)

Most parents and coaches want the best for their kids by being supportive, interactive role models, helping children have fun while reaping the benefits of playing sports.

And that’s what children want out of sports too. In a 2014 George Washington University study, players, coaches and parents brainstormed a list of 81 things that contribute to having fun and ranked them—“trying your best” and “when a coach treats a player with respect” were deemed most important. Winning ranked 48th.

But sometimes, adults get carried away with the excitement of a big moment—whether it’s a drive toward the goal, a shot that doesn’t go in, a controversial penalty or their child getting benched. You’ve seen that parent, shouting instructions to their kid, telling the ref where he can stick his penalty card. Maybe you’ve been that parent.

At best, parents’ emotional outbursts from the sideline can embarrass their kids. At worst, all the yelling and screaming can cause long-lasting harm.

PARENT, NOT COACH

The Toyota Stadium and Soccer Center in Frisco is home to professional soccer team FC Dallas as well as a youth program that comprises 3,000 players on teams across Dallas-Fort Worth (and beyond). Chris Clarke, director of player development, reveals that the FC Dallas youth program has a code of conduct for players—and their parents—that everyone has to acknowledge and sign. dfwchild.com / march 2019

23

“This is a training and learning environment where we teach, watch, teach, correct and teach again,” he says. “Nowhere in the code does it say ‘we must win.’ The outcome we strive for includes fun, skills development and relationships. Winning isn’t mentioned.”

Though parents are integral to the youth program, the code of conduct helps them understand what their role is—and isn’t. The section for parents starts with this summary: “The role of the parent is very simple. Be a parent, not a coach or referee.” Rules include “Support your son/daughter in a positive manner” and “Do not coach from the sideline.”

“The game belongs to the players,” Clarke says.

“We need them to focus at practice and on game day. A parent yelling at a player breaks the child’s attention.”

Therein lies the irony: Yelling at players, coaches and refs won’t help their performance.

During his coaching years, John O’Sullivan saw many examples of kids losing concentration mid-game thanks to their parents shouting directions. O’Sullivan is a former professional soccer player, dad of two and author of the bestselling book Changing the Game: The Parents Guide to Raising Happy, High Performing Athletes, and Giving Sports Back to Our Kids.

“There was cognitive interference and slowed reaction time when a parent was yelling instructions over a coach to a player during a game,” he recalls via Skype.

“The child tuned out the game and his own decision process because of the parent’s intrusion.”

O’Sullivan is so convinced of the importance of a healthy and fun environment in athletics that he’s made it his passion project.

His organization, Changing the Game Project, was founded in 2012 and is dedicated to helping parents and coaches be positive influences and provide constructive guidance to young athletes.

“THERE’S A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING DEMANDING OR BEING DEMEANING.”

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

“All organizations have to create an environment where parents, players, coaches and officials are each held accountable,” he says. “There’s a difference between being demanding or being demeaning. Parents should not be afraid of intervening in a timely, appropriate manner [when their child is being mistreated]. And coaches need to be an advocate for their athletes in the same way.”

But parents should not confuse advocating for their child with abusing a coach or official, nor should they confuse enthusiasm with unproductive yelling.

OUT OF CONTROL

“At times, some adults don’t even recognize the difference between guiding a child and verbally mistreating them,” says Jana Swart, a Dallas psychologist (and mother of four) who has treated both adolescents and adults in her practice for over 25 years.

She explains that contrary to some parents’ and coaches’ perception that being hard on players toughens them up or improves their play, the physical response in a child during and after being yelled at negatively affects their performance. This is because the stress hormone cortisol is involuntarily released in the body, which inhibits executive functioning.

“It leads to a mental restriction with their focus,” Swart says.

“Then, when the cortisol levels fall, the child feels physically shaken.”

Research published in the Journal of Sport Behavior in 2009 suggests that being regularly exposed to angry confrontations as a bystander (called “background anger”) is distressing to kids too, meaning that when there’s a lot of verbal aggression emanating from the sidelines or the bench, athletes who aren’t the targets may suffer as if they were.

Over time, these effects compound, and not just on the sports field.

“Pushy parents can create an internal conflict with their child that may lead to anxiety, depression and rebellion,” Swart says.

Multiple studies agree: Kids who

are regularly yelled at or placed under stress have an increased risk of mental health problems, including depression, in the long run.

Swart also wants adults to think about what they’re inadvertently teaching their kids through their sideline outbursts.

“The behaviors children observe on the athletic field, they [might] emulate in the workplace one day,” she says.

It’s safe to assume that most parents don’t want their kids to believe that an angry tirade—or verbal abuse—is the appropriate response when something doesn’t go their way. So why do parents and coaches continue to set a poor example?

“Often an adult’s issues from their own childhood are a part of their unconscious behavior,” Swart explains. Losing a job, having a critical medical diagnosis in the family or other events might also affect a parent’s behavior.

“When something is missing in an adult’s life, they may try to fulfill or compensate for it through their authority in a child’s life,” Swart continues.

“This can lead to intimidating and embarrassing the team they are coaching or … their own child.”

Overinvolved parents and out-of-control coaches sometimes coincide with the increased proficiency of a child beyond their peers (or at least a belief that the child has better-than-average talent). Words like “scholarships” and “endorsements” enter the conversation, and parents might want to provide more competitive experiences and higher levels of coaching. Some parents see the fees they pay as an investment in their child’s future, and as a result, they may become overly emotional about their child’s performance during a game or perceived setbacks such as undeserved penalties and poor coaching decisions.

“Some parents tend to try and live vicariously through their kids,” says Jonathan Clarke (no relation to Chris Clarke), a veteran coach for under-12 recreational soccer in Allen. His 11-year-old son, Adam, is on his team. “I’ve

seen some parents push their kid long and hard to make them a ‘star,’” he continues, “and the kid is miserable. The parent is angry the skills they are paying to develop haven’t been mastered. So they pull the kid out of the club and put him in another one to get what they think their child needs while never asking the child what he wants.”

At a local indoor soccer arena on a Sunday afternoon in January, several recreation teams are playing against club soccer teams. The games are scrimmages and don’t count in the standings for any contest.

The difference in parent sideline involvement is as pronounced as the difference in the cost of the two programs: Registration for the spring season of the Keller Soccer Association was $125 and included a uniform for new players; club registration cost $545 and did not include the required named-brand uniform package.

Terri Ford, mother of 11-year-old Kaylee, says she enjoys her daughter’s recreational soccer games because of the family atmosphere.

“We yell positive cheers no matter what,” Ford says. “Good scores, mistakes or losses—we are here to support all the girls.” She adds that team spirit is bolstered through activities outside the arena and believes this contributes to the positive atmosphere come game time.

“Pizza night fun goes hand in hand with the coach’s ground rules and open communication with everyone to act responsibly,” she says.

Meanwhile, parents of one club soccer team are sitting huddled at the center line. A dad is cheering for his son, Frankie (whose name I’ve changed for privacy). He is also yelling continual instructions: “Don’t wait!” “Go to the left, Frankie! Faster!” At one point, Frankie actually stops playing and says to his dad, “What? I can’t hear you.”

PLAYING BY THE RULES

While reviewing any sports program to enroll your child in,

there is more to consider than whether their friends play on the team and whether your family can meet the time commitment.

There will always be “that parent” who chooses to believe that their instructions are better than a coach’s. There will always be “that coach” who chooses to believe that being hard on players builds character and gets results.

But choosing a program that promotes—and enforces—a positive environment can decrease the chances of exposing your child to damaging distress.

Jonathan Clarke, the Allen coach, works to educate new parents about the game while communicating to them that multiple instructions are confusing and hurt their kid’s performance. “The longer I have the same kid on my team, the easier it gets because I’ve also taught their parents respect about the boundaries in the game and on the sidelines,” he says.

Chris Clarke emphasizes that responsible conduct for parents, players, coaches and referees should be a written commitment in every athletic program regardless of the level of the sport.

“One idea I would encourage parents to look for in assessing a coach and team for their child is to evaluate the whole activity like they would a teacher in a classroom,” he says. “If words and actions are not tolerated in a classroom, they should not be tolerated on the field.”

Enforcing good behavior starts with good communication, he adds. “Having regular contact with the parents in team meetings can often preempt an unpleasant situation on the field.” And having a written agreement that parents, kids and the athletic organization all promise to uphold has a subtle, yet powerful impact on holding people accountable for their behavior. It prepares everyone for their responsibilities and outlines the consequences for actions that are not acceptable.

“Presenting a parent with their signed commitment to abide by the code has been very effective in dealing with

PARENTS’ PLAYBOOK WHEN A PARENT OR COACH gets a little too into the game (especially if that parent is you), experts suggest making the following moves to promote a supportive environment: If you need to take it down a notch…

Take time to understand the coach’s instructions by researching the rules and strategy of the game at the level your child plays. Ask the coach what they’re trying to impart to players.

Let the car ride home be simply a car ride—don’t use it as an opportunity to pick apart your child’s performance.

Skip attendance at a game or two. Distance can bring perspective.

If another adult is behaving badly…

If you know the parent, call them on their cellphone.

The interruption will break the focus of their rant and provide a cooling-off moment.

Enlist the help of another parent to have a noncon-

frontational chat with the offending adult. A statement like, “You’re drawing attention away from the kids’ game,” can be effective.

Be aware that there may be physiological as well as psychological issues involved. If a parent or coach is really out of control, don’t approach them.

Call security officers or the police, who are trained to handle unpredictable situations.

Discuss with your own child what they observed. Ask, “How do you feel about what happened?” Be open to your child’s concerns, and use this serious situation to teach your child the life skill of empathy toward others and the importance of not reacting badly to someone else’s bad behavior.

If a coach is verbally abusing your child, find another team and report the coach to the organization that has administrative oversight of the team. Be the role model for other parents. Protect your child.

outbursts towards coaches and referees,” Chris Clarke says of the FC Dallas youth program.

The organization has actually built into their code of conduct a timeout period for adults: Parents must wait a full 24 hours before contacting a coach about issues that arise on gameday.

“A cooling-off period is helpful to give some parents a more relaxed perspective and assess what is or is not important,” Clarke explains.

Even with clearly stated parameters, at times a written commitment is not enough.

“When there is an extreme situation with a parent, we ask

them to take a sabbatical from coming to games,” Clarke reveals. “We then try to re-educate them on conduct, recommend they read up on the rules of the game, and increase their understanding of what the coach is teaching their child.”

In more than 20 years of coaching, O’Sullivan recalls, “only two times did I have to ask a parent to leave a program after multiple meetings about inappropriate outbursts. It was sad to see both times how the release from the team impacted the child because of his uncontrollable parent. The child lost his friends, his team and his social network.” dfwchild.com / march 2019

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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24 Exciting Science Day Camps!

Kids Grades Pre-K–7th Spark your children’s love of science this summer by enrolling them in fun and engaging science day camps! Your children are sure to have an unforgettable experience as they do hands-on activities and learn how science is used in everyday life. Camp themes include topics such as rocketry, video game creation, robotics, veterinary medicine, meteorology, paleontology and many more!

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Alcuin Summer offers a 100+ Half-Day and Full-Day weekly camps between June 3–July 12 for ages 3–14.

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

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Our experienced camp staff and welcoming environment provide the perfect opportunity for campers to have fun, begin new friendships and create lasting memories!

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Spend your day the Friar way with Summer at Bishop Lynch! Summer at BL offers seven weeks of academic, art and athletic camps on the beautiful Bishop Lynch campus. Taught by faculty, coaches and other seasoned and enthusiastic instructors, there are more than 50 unique camps for rising kindergarten to eighth grade students.

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The DIS Summer Enrichment Camp is a 6-week program providing campers (ages 3 to 17) with the opportunity to explore a wide range of activities (Art, Sports, Languages, STEM, etc.) in a safe and caring environment.

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Students enrolled full day are automatically signed up for lunch in our cafeteria at no additional cost.

Camp hours are 9am to 3:30pm. Early drop off starts at 7:30. Extended care and activities end at 6pm.

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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BEST Summer EVER

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The Hockaday School 11600 Welch Rd. Dallas, TX 75229 hockaday.org/summer Contact information Melissa Curtis, Director of Auxiliary Programs 214-360-6534 mcurtis@hockaday.org

Summer at Hockaday invites girls and boys, age 3 through 10th grade, to The Hockaday School for a summer of academics, enrichment and fun led by a nurturing and experienced faculty and staff.

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Don’t miss the Summer Math & Writing Institute for coed students entering grades 5–10, and come discover our Discover Day Camp for 3’s and 4’s and the ever popular Creative Arts & SCIENCE Camp for girls and boys entering grades K–4. Let us help you build an amazing summer schedule for your child!

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2019 SUMMER

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

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Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7 to 14 on the UT Dallas campus. Morning (9am–noon) or afternoon (1–4pm) sessions are available June 10–14, June 17–21, July 15–19, and July 22–26 and extended playing classes. Camp includes T-shirt, chess board and pieces, trophy, certificate, score book, group photo, snacks and drinks.

This year the UT Dallas Chess Team is going to a recordsetting 16th appearance at the College Chess Final Four!

The start of summer doesn’t mean the end of learning ...

3939 Valley View Ln. Farmers Branch, TX 75244 972-860-4715 • bhcinfo@dcccd.edu brookhavencollege.edu/youthprograms

The summer youth programs at Brookhaven College are designed to give kids of all ages the chance to experience something new and challenging. Our programs include: • Art • Leadership • Creative writing • Cooking • Photography • Quilting Ann & Nate Levine Academy Summer Camps offer fun-filled learning opportunities for children ages Infant to 12 years old! Campers may enroll in one or more weekly sessions, facilitated by professional staff.

Open to the community.

18011 Hillcrest Rd. Dallas, TX 75252 972-248-3032 levineacademy.org/camp

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

Camp Shemesh, ages Infant-care through rising Kindergarten Early care/aftercare available from 7:45am to 6pm (5pm Fridays) Summer@Levine, ages 6–12 years old Weekly camps embrace arts, sports, STEM and much more!

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BEST Summer EVER

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Grades 1–8: June 10–28 / Academic and Enrichment Classes Grades 9–12: June 3–28 / High School Credit Classes dfwchild.com / march 2019

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CAMPS/TRAVEL/SPORTS/ARTS/EDUCATION

Animals • Science • Adventure There is no better place for an animal lover! Camp is home to more than 300 animals including lemurs, llamas, miniature horses, cats & dogs, hedgehogs, wallabies and that’s only a few! There are over 100 hands-on activities campers may choose to do while at camp:

Cub Creek Science & Animal Camp Rolla, Missouri 573-458-2125 CubCreekScienceCamp.com

• Animal Care • Culinary Science • Pottery • Veterinary Medicine • Crime Science • Arts & Crafts • Survival Skills • Ropes Course • Archery Spend just a week making friends and memories that will last a lifetime!

Dallas Zoo Wild Adventures Summer Camps

650 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy., Dallas, TX 75203 469-554-7300 • education@dallaszoo.com dallaszoo.com

June 10–Aug. 9, 2019 | PreK–Grade 12

Don’t let the summer fly by without a Dallas Zoo camp experience!

Campers will enjoy animal encounters, games, activities, crafts, tours and more during a variety of weeklong and single-day camps.

Visit DallasZoo.com/Education to learn more and register.

DESTINATION SCIENCE

Multiple Locations in Dallas Fort Worth Area Colleyville, Coppell, Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, Keller, Plano 888-909-2922 • destinationscience.org/dfw

The fun science day camp where curious kids can build their own robot, mix up some magic molecules, take home a magnetic roller coaster, launch into space and become science makers and innovators this summer!

Three science stations, 15 science activities plus games, silly songs and all the fun of camp!

Enroll in March & Save $30/wk! Enroll in 3 or 4 wks & save another $10/wk!

The Episcopal School of Dallas 4100 Merrell Rd., Dallas, TX 75229 214-353-5854 esdallas.org/summercamp

11110 Midway Rd., Dallas, TX 75229 gsesdallas.org Whitney West, Director of Enrichment 214-357-1610 ext. 283 wwest@gsesdallas.org

1 Nature Place, McKinney, TX 75069 972-562-5566 • info@heardmuseum.org heardmuseum.org/camps

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JUMP INTO SUMMER AT ESD!

From soccer to superheroes and everything in between, there’s truly something for everyone ages 3+.

Weekly programs starting at $150 offered May–August, 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Camps in Fine Arts, Athletics, Recreation, Academics, STEM and Adventure emphasize learning, but most importantly, making new friends and having fun!

Questions? Contact Mike Schneider, Director of Summer Programs at schneiderm@esdallas.org

Good Shepherd Episcopal School’s Summer Program shatters all expectations of summer! We provide students the opportunity to take risks and try unique, fun activities in a safe and nurturing environment! We are excited to bring you classes from May 28–August 2 designed specifically for ages one through eighth grade, offering a special blend of dynamic and academically-rich sessions.

Visit our website, gsesdallas.org, soon for class descriptions and registration!

Spending time in nature plays a vital role in child health and development! Register for a Heard Nature Camp and give your child the gift of a connection to nature. Heard Nature Camps and mini-camps feature opportunities to investigate the wonders of nature on our 289-acre sanctuary, encounter animals and more. Specialty camps offer opportunities to create art in nature, learn about animal care, go behind the scenes, and more.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEST Summer EVER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAMPS/TRAVEL/SPORTS/ARTS/EDUCATION

2430 Hwy. 39, Hunt, TX 78024 830-238-4650 • 830-238-4670 jane@hohcamp.com • valarie@campstewart.com hohcamp.com • campstewart.com

7900 Northaven Rd, Dallas TX 75230 Laura Seymour, Camp Director lseymour@jccdallas.org

S U M M E R

C A M P S

Come to our Open Houses on March 16, fun outing on the beautiful Guadalupe River near Kerrville. Separate boy/girl camps owned and operated by Ragsdale family, Camp Stewart for boys 6–16, and Heart O’ the Hills Camp for Girls 6–16.

Worldwide, limited enrollment, personable and fun! Instructionoriented, offering more than 50 activities—including English and western riding, Red Cross swimming instruction, sports, canoeing, archery, tennis, climbing and rappelling, survival skills, crafts. Stewart has a unique Trail of Advancement for all boys; older boys specialize in ranchman, outdoorsman, sportsman or campmaster. The Heart has tradition of sisterhood and etiquette. Also intangibles—self-confidence, teamwork, leadership, individual identity, dealing with challenges. One-week term (Stewart only), two- and four-week terms (both).

We believe that camp is LIFE and there’s no better place to experience it than at the JCC. Spread over 13 acres, the 170,000 square foot JCC campus offers all the best features of a sleepaway camp without ever having to leave the metroplex. We offer the classic day camp experience (Camp Simchah, Camp Chai) as well as Gymnastics, Tennis, Sports, Performing Arts and Teen Travel specialty camps.

DISCOVER LAKEHILL SUMMER CAMPS Coeducational Kindergarten through High School June 3–August 2

Morning, afternoon and full-day teacher-led camps are available, as well as free before- and after-camp care.

214-826-2931 lakehillprep.org/summer-camps

Academic Readiness • Acting and Film-Making Community Service • Cooking • Crafting and Building Arts • LEGO • Outdoor Adventure • Science and Discovery Sports • Technology • And More!

Online Summer Camps Guide and Online Registration: lakehillprep.org/summer-camps

Girls, put your shoulders back and hold your head up high, while Model Prep founder Amber Griffin teaches you how to be self-confident and own it! Model Prep is looking for girls between the ages of 11–17 to be apart of our summer program June 14–16 hosted by the Four Season Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas.

214-998-8119 amber@modelprep.com modelprep.com

Plano, Fairview, Frisco and Dallas 972-422-2575 NTPA.org/camps

• Self Esteem and confidence workshop • Runway Training • Sunday Brunch • Industry Panel Discussion • Friendly Competition • Fashionable Fashion Show • Amazing Grand Prizes

Join us for our incredible summer camps where you can transform into a superhero, a princess, or your favorite storybook character! Our morning, afternoon and full-day camps bring your favorite childhood stories to life on stage. With summer learning opportunities for ages 5 to 18, there’s a spot for everyone to learn from our professional directors, actors, and singers who have worked everywhere from Broadway to L.A.

Summer Fun for Everyone!

May 28–August 26 • Full & Half-Day Camps • Ages 3–18 • 10% off select camps until April 15!

• Programs from 7:30 am–6:00 pm • Open to the community

Parish Episcopal School 4101 Sigma Rd., Dallas, TX 75244 972-852-8752 summer@parishepiscopal.org

parishsummer.org

Summer 2019 Camps Include: • Academics – Launch (6:1 ratio!), Study Skills, Creative Writing • Arts – Street Art, Drumline, Musical Theater • Athletics – Soccer, Basketball, Self Defense • Fun – Day Camp (Water Slide Wednesdays, Field Trip Thursdays), Minecraft, DJ Academy • STEM – ID Tech, Archaeology, LEGO …& so much more!

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BEST Summer EVER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAMPS/TRAVEL/SPORTS/ARTS/EDUCATION

Summer The Shelton Way June 24–July 19 There’s something for everyone! Shelton’s unique multisensory and discovery learning methods are perfect for students with and without a language-learning difference. And did we mention fun?

Shelton School & Evaluation Center 15720 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas, TX 75248 972-774-1772 Ext. 2223 shelton.org/summerschool shelton.org/sportscamps

Academic and Enrichment Classes EC–12 Languages • Drama • Fitness • Technology • Science • Reading Scholars Small Group Tutoring in Reading / Writing / Spelling Upper School Credit Classes Sports Camps for girls and boys Speech / Language / Hearing Program

SUMMER AT ST. JOHN’S Explore | Create | Learn | Laugh Join us for a fun-filled summer and choose from over 160 camps for kids interested in the arts, sports, STEAM, creative problem solving, and adventure.

Rock n’ Roll Rocketry | Machine Sewing | Discover Magic American Girl | Back to Nature | Summer Musical!

St. John’s Episcopal School 848 Harter Rd., Dallas, TX 75218 214-328-9131 ext. 132 StJohnsSchool.org/Summer

June 3–July 26 Open to ages 4–14 | Half- and full-day camps Before and after camp care 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Registration now open.

Ballet Basics introduces boys and girls, ages 3 to 6, to the fundamentals of ballet. The camp experience also includes crafts, story time and choreography to correlate with the theme of the week.

670 N. Coit Rd., Ste. 2379 Richardson, TX 75080 214-377-8576 texasballettheater.org/summer-program

Young Dancer Intensive and Junior Intensive broaden the perspective of 7–14 year old ballet students with a variety of classes including ballet, modern and jazz.

3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Dallas, TX 75210 214-428-7476 • TXDG.org

Discover all summer long during our EarthExplorers Summer Camps! We’ll explore garden life, see eye-to-eye with butterflies, snakes, and other critters, and enjoy playing and creating out in nature.

Half-day, full-day, and week-long camps available. Ages 3–8th Grade.

It’s Your Child’s Summer to Shine!

Boost your child’s creativity, confidence & talent…

The Westwood School Summer Camps are designed for MORE FUN at every age!

• An exciting daily schedule with art, games, cooking & more • A special guest each week and Pizza/Splash Fridays • Camp times: 9am–3pm, plus Extended Day & Childcare available 14340 Proton Rd., Dallas, TX 75244 972-239-8598

9 5707 Royal Ln., Dallas, TX 75229 214-691-6950 winston-school.org

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Register by May 1st for $50 Early Bird Discount www.WestwoodSchool.org/summer

Summer is HERE! Discover Winston Summer Camps Kindergarten through 12th grade June 3–July 5 Full- and half-day options in areas of Academics, STEM in Action and Sports. There’s something for everyone. Come ready to learn, discover, explore, create and have loads of FUN! Camp dates, times and fees vary. Contact us at 214-691-6950 or info@winston-school.org for more information.

BEST EVER 2019

EPIC SUMMER PLANNING STARTS HERE

DFWCHILD.COM/CAMPS T R AV E L

kid culture.

BELOW // Kids 5 and under are welcome to climb aboard the Frisco Public Library’s interactive play space, the Ready to Read Railroad.

GET LIT(ERARY) 11 reading spaces worth checking out with your family WORDS ELIZABETH QUINN + LISA SALINAS

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY

T

O SPARK EXCITEMENT about reading (and learning experiences of all kinds!) local libraries and bookstores beckon kids with engaging amenities and entertainment. Bright colors, cozy nooks and interactive tech—along with events that inspire creativity—welcome families to hang out for story time or the whole afternoon. Book it to one of these 11 reading spaces, even if you don’t live in the neighborhood, for hands-on learning and play.

(Continued on the next page)

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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kid culture / G E T

LIT(ERARY)

ABOVE // Kids love climbing in the nooks at Bookmarks, a library exclusively for the 12-andunder crowd. BELOW // The interactive play tables at Carrollton’s Josey Ranch Lake library are perfect for kiddos who love building with their hands.

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Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.

$199/mo. includes daily classes plus PhysioFit Texas membership.

CARROLLTON PUBLIC LIBRARY AT JOSEY RANCH LAKE Moms know how life gets a little loud with kids around.

But they don’t have to worry about making noise at the Carrollton Public Library at Josey Ranch Lake. This is not a quiet library, so have fun with the kids. With a Lego table, preschoolers’ area, play kitchen and doctor’s office, plus a rotating cast of manipulatives including puzzles and flannel boards (a carpet wall for littles to create stories out of shapes), there’s no shortage of things for fidgety kids to do.

If the littles still have excess energy, meander the paved trails out back to visit the ducks and turtles in Josey Ranch Lake.

Bookmark: Saturday Story Time (for infants through age 5), Saturday at 10:30am; Toddler Time (ages 1-3), Monday at 10:15am; Pre-K Story Time (ages 3-5), Monday at 11am; Evening Story Time, Monday at 7pm; Sensory Story Time (for kids 3 and older), Wednesday at 4:30pm.

1700 Keller Springs Road, Carrollton, 972/466-4800; cityofcarrollton.com DALLAS’ BOOKMARKS While the first rule of thumb at most libraries is to use your indoor voice, kiddos are welcome to raise the volume at Bookmarks, a library exclusively for age 12 and under that’s located on level one of NorthPark Center.

With puzzle tables, toys, six computers that house learning games by AWE (an early child literacy program), cozy tunnels where kids can curl up with a book, spinning red chairs and a full menu of programming, Bookmarks is the epitome of kid-centered learning and play. Besides regularly scheduled story times throughout the week, Sundays from noon to 4pm are reserved for arts and crafts (usually on a seasonal theme) during the come-and-go KraftyKids program, and Saturday programming at 10am, 10:30am and 2pm runs the gamut from magic shows to art-making.

Bookmark: Baby Basics story time (ages 0–18 months), Monday at 10:30am and 12:30pm, Thursday and Friday at 12:30pm; Preschool Palooza (ages 2–5), Thursday at 3:30pm; Story Time Serendipity

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DALLAS PUBLIC LIBRARY; CITY OF CARROLLTON

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY With a 400-gallon tank with live fish, the Allen Public Library also has a fish theme on the walls and carpets to keep that under-the-sea feel in its children’s library. One way to get your child to advance their literacy skills is to join the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program.

For each 100 books read, the child gets a prize, and as the book number increases, the prizes get bigger. An Anime Club meets every second Thursday of the month for kids to watch anime while doing crafts and socializing.

Bookmark: Baby and Me story time (for prewalkers), Wednesday at 10:15am; Fun Ones and Twos story time (for 1- and 2-year-olds), Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10:15am; Together Time (for 3- to 5-year-olds), Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 11:15am; All By Myself story time (for 4- and 5-year-olds ready to attend independently), Wednesday at 11:15; Pajama Time story time (for ages 3 and older), Tuesday at 6:30pm.

300 N. Allen Dr., Allen, 214/509-4900; AllenLibrary.org

FAMILY SERIES

Saturday, March 16

Saturday, April 27

If you like reading us, you’ll love working with us.

View our job openings at dfwchild.com/careers

2 PM • Winspear Opera House

Tickets only $5!

For details and tickets: 214.443.1000 or dallasopera.org/family Presented by

Additional support from

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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April 6, 2019 10am–7pm

Wayne Ferguson Plaza in Old Town Lewisville

lewisvillecolorpalooza.com

An interactive arts festival featuring:

• annual sidewalk art extravaganza • Kids’ Zone presented by Care Now • Live multicultural entertainment on two stages • Do-It-Yourself Tye Dye T-shirt station • Eco Alley presented by Champion Windows featuring earth-friendly products and demonstrations • Art demonstrations and interactive art by The Color Condition and others Sponsored by

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LIT(ERARY)

(all ages), Wednesday at 3:30pm and Thursdays at 10:30am.

8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 214/6711381; dallaslibrary2.org FARMERS BRANCH’S MANSKE LIBRARY Read with your littles on one of the three bean bags in the children’s area, which overlooks Rawhide Creek. A portion of the kids’ zone is dedicated to game time, with old-school games like Connect 4, Jenga, puzzles, coloring books and a puppet theater where kids can perform their own shows. There’s also a computer station and stuffed animals. Naturally, children’s events also serve as a source of play. An arts and crafts program is hosted every month, with this month’s theme “So You Want to Make a Fairy Garden.”

Kids will make their own versions of fairy gardens with items from pebbles to Play-Dough.

Bookmark: Babybounce story time is Tuesday, Toddler story time is Wednesday and Preschool story time is Thursday, all at 10:15am.

13000 William Dodson Parkway, Farmers Branch, 972/247 2511; farmersbranchyx.gov/library FRISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY The future conductor can get aboard the Ready to Read Railroad at Frisco Public Library.

Geared toward infants to 5-year-olds, the more than 600-square-foot interactive learning space has three discovery zones. There’s a dining car complete with plastic foods and a play kitchen, a baby garden with a puppet frog, bee and other creatures, and STEM depot filled with books, cards and props to learn all about trains.

For teens, there are monthly writing groups that facilitate a safe space to share ideas and get feedback from peers.

Bookmark: Story Times for Babies (prewalkers), Wednesday at 10:30, 11 and 11:30am; Toddlers in Motion (walkers up to 23 months), Tuesday and Thursday at 10am; Wee Readers (up to 23 months), Friday at 10:30am; 2 Years, Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30am, Friday at 10am; 3–5 Years, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 10am; Sensory Story Time, select Saturdays at 11am.

6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco, 972/292-5669; friscolibrary.com INTERABANG BOOKS The inspiration behind this independent bookstore’s name—a mélange between a question mark (interrogative) and an exclamation point (a bang)—is the spirit of curiosity and excitement that books evoke. In addition to Interabang’s selection of more than 12,000 books, the store has a children’s room, where a wall of vibrant flowers on a green background marks the spot for weekly story times led by Mr. Jeff, who is joined by Miss Marissa

ABOVE // At the Frisco Library, kids learn through educational toys. BELOW // There’s a wall of picture books to browse in the kids’ section at Interabang Books. from time to time. The bookstore also boasts its Modern First Library collection for kids, featuring the classic oldies we all know and love, like Corduroy, with new, diverse stories such as After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again). Download the store’s monthly event calendar online or pick one up in store to stay up to date with its latest kiddie happenings. (In the past, clowns from texasparties.com have stopped by story time.)

Bookmark: Story times are Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30am for ages 4–8 (toddlers also welcome).

10720 Preston Road, Suite 1009B, Dallas, 214/484-4289; interabangbooks.com PLANO’S HARRINGTON LIBRARY When you walk into the Harrington Library, hang a right to join two-hour workshops that allow families to paint alongside the current 18st AIRSpace Artist in Residence (Christine Song until the end of March). When the artist is not present, there are simple makeand-take projects for families to work on.

Then stroll under the wall of swirling clouds to be transported to the Family Place, named for the national Family Place Libraries network, which helps libraries promote early literacy. There are a range of toys, Legos, interactive puzzles, traditional wooden puzzles, play food, trucks and wooden blocks for all ages—and books of course. And the library offers Family Place Playgroup for age 3 and younger and a parent or caregiver (siblings are welcome too if they are 4–5 years old). The five-week workshop includes play activities and provides professional resources to

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY; KYLE HALL

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PLAY-18-001 Notice Learning Habit_DFWChild_3_5x9_625_01mg.indd 1

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8/9/18 10:12 AM

Cultivating Young Minds & Characters At Learn & Grow our philosophy is simple: Pair the tailored attention of one-on-one tutoring with the stress-free environment of your own home.

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parents, such as speech, hearing and nutrition info. The next series begins March 14; registration is required due to limited space.

Bookmark: Rhyme Time (ages 0–24 months), Tuesday at 9:30am; Toddler Time (18–36 months), Monday at 9:30am and Wednesday at 10:30am; Preschool Storytime (3–5 years), Monday and Tuesday at 10:30am.

1501 18th St., Plano, 972/941-7175; plano. gov/3174/harrington-library

preview books your little might want to check out. For an active experience, head outside to embark on Darbey’s Storywalk, which has 16 stations that allow families to read a picture book together while getting some exercise. The book changes monthly, so check back often.

Bookmark: Saturday Morning Kids story time (ages 3–7), Saturday at 10:30am.

900 Civic Center Drive, Richardson, 972/7444350; richardsonpubliclibrary.com

PROSPER COMMUNITY LIBRARY Hop into the newly relocated Prosper Community Library to visit the library’s bunnies, Max and Ruby, who often roam around their designated area in the morning but are present every day, and follow BiblioBunny Tales online to keep up with their adventures. Every Sunday, a critical-thinking workshop is held to challenge kids: One Sunday’s activity was to describe the color blue using all the senses. For more learning opportunities, use the library’s free ABCmouse.com program while in the library. The program teaches reading, language, math, science, social studies, art and colors through animations, games, books, songs, puzzles, art and printables as well as an interactive zoo, aquarium and farm.

Bookmark: Bilingual Story Time (up to age 5), Wednesday at 11am; Pajama Story Time, Wednesday at 6pm.

200 S. Main St., Prosper, 972/569-1185; prospertx.gov/library RICHARDSON PUBLIC LIBRARY With larger-than-life characters (including a hot air balloon overhead) and lots of windows to look out of, the children’s area of the Richardson Public Library is a feast for the senses as well as the mind. Use the Peek-a-Book touchscreen to

UNIVERSITY PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY Kiddos will love the touch-screen table in the children’s area, which offers games in subjects like math, social sciences and reading. The library is also equipped with three kiddie computers for ages 2–8—equipped with STEAM-related games and activities and reading games, including programs in Spanish and English. (The UP library also boasts a growing collection of Spanish-language books for kids.) Preloaded launch pads, which feature games and do not require an internet connection, are available for checkout. These tablets are for age 5 and younger (and make for perfect road-trip play items, if you ask us). The children’s area has some old-school fun too, with puzzles, blocks and crafts for kids to make in the library or take home. Brick Bash takes place on the second Saturday of each month (except December), when kids build colorful creations out of Legos that are then displayed in the library for the rest of the month.

Bookmark: Story time for ages 4 and 5, Wednesday at 3:45pm; for preschoolers, Thursday at 10:45am; for age 2 and younger, Friday at 10:45am.

8383 Preston Center Plaza, Suite 200, University Park, 214/363-9095; uptexas.org

ABOVE // Join the Richardson Public Library on March 17 for Tales for Tails, when kids in grades K–4 can read to furry friends. ABOVE CENTER // The University Park Library offers a mix of tech and old-school toys for kids.

WILD DETECTIVES Who said coffee shops are reserved for caffeinated college students and on-the-go orders?

Grab your morning dose of caffeine and get some hot chocolate for the kiddos at Wild Detectives, a bookstore-slash-coffee shop serving up homey, family vibes, during its weekly Sunday morning story time, Kids in the Cliff.

The story time space has large windows surrounding a cozy nook, furnished with wooden benches and pillows. Wild Detectives is also unique for its request-a-book service, through which you can request a book that is not in the shop and receive a complimentary coffee for your inquiry.

Bookmark: Kids in the Cliff, Sunday at 11am.

314 W. Eighth St., Dallas, 214/942-0108; thewilddetectives.com

Call to arrange for a complimentary consultation!

972-672-5037 214-642-1389

English • Math • Spanish Requires a bachelor’s degree and valid teaching certificate. Teaching experience preferred.

All applicants should be committed to high expectations and achievement for all students. ©

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.

Careers

Part-time only. Looking for a long term commitment (one year minimum).

We offer flexible schedule.

LIT(ERARY)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY; RICHARDSON PUBLIC LIBRARY

kid culture / G E T

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Spring Family Fun D I R E C TO R Y SHED THOSE WINTER COATS, GRAB THE KIDS AND CHECK OUT ALL THE SEASON HAS TO OFFER

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COMPANY NAME

DETAILS

Adventure Kids Playcare web.adventurekidsplaycare.com

Adventure Kids Adventure Kids Playcare is a unique drop-in childcare and entertainment center for kids ages 6 weeks to 12 years old with theme nights, spring break camp, summer camps, daily activities, STEAM and more! See ad on page 44.

Cottonwood Art Festival cottonwoodartfestival.com // 972/744-4580

The 50th anniversary of Cottonwood Art Festival, a family-friendly event featuring art, live music and an award-winning children's area with interactive hands-on activities for kids of all ages. Find the Picasso in you!

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History fwmuseum.org // 817/255-9300

This spring break is All About Dinos at the Museum! Don’t miss your chance for an exciting adventure through the age of dinosaurs filled with activities, artifacts, technology and more!

Fort Worth Zoo fwzoorun.com // 817/759-7555

Join us April 6 for the 22nd Annual Zoo Run! This family-friendly race winds through the zoo and includes a 5K and 1K Fun Run. Proceeds support wildlife conservation efforts locally and around the world. See ad on page 13.

Frank Buck Zoo frankbuckzoo.com // 940/668-4533

In celebration of Frank Buck's birthday, admission is just $2 for everyone March 12 only. Join at 1pm that day for free birthday cake, while it lasts! See ad on page 37.

Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau grapevinetexasusa.com // 817/410-3185

Spring is blooming, as are our family-friendly events in Grapevine! Don't miss Grapevine Vintage Railroad's Day Out With Thomas, educational classes at Nash Farm's First Friday events, classic movies at the Palace Theatre and more. See ad on page 19.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary heardmuseum.org // 972/562-5566

Visit the Heard and enjoy the beauty of our 289-acre nature preserve, exhibits and more. Every day spent on the trails provides new experiences. Sign up for a fun program or explore on your own.

See ad on page 30.

Heritage Farmstead Museum heritagefarmstead.org // 972/881-0140

Spring Festival is April 20. We have preschool programs and summer camps. Visit our 4-acre farmstead where you can take the public tour at 1:30pm or walk the grounds and visit our farm animals.

JCC Dallas jccdallas.org // 214/739-2737

The Aaron Family Jewish Community Center of Dallas offers programs for families of all faiths, shapes and sizes including youth and adult sports, swimming, tennis, performing arts, book and film fest, camp and preschool. See ads on pages 31, 39 and 47.

Kemah Boardwalk kemahboardwalk.com // 281/535-8100

Be adventurous this spring break! Join us at the Kemah Boardwalk, just 40 minutes south of Houston, for waterfront dining, live music and amusement rides. Weekend Adventure Passes available for unlimited visits. Purchase online today! See ad on page 58.

Lakefront Little Elm lakefrontlittleelm.com

EGGtastic Easter is a great family event! We’ll have a giant Easter egg hunt, kite flying contest, children’s festival, games, rides and a DJ. Event is free to attend with food and treats for sale.

Museum of the American Railroad museumoftheamericanrailroad.org // 214/428-0101

Experience TrainTopia at the Frisco Discovery Center—custom light shows, running model trains, an experience of a lifetime! Indoor fun for the entire family! Tickets at historictrains.org or purchase at the door. Open Wednesday–Sunday. See ad on page 13.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science perotmuseum.org // 214/428-5555

There’s always something different happening at the Perot Museum! Get ready for an adventure exploring 11 permanent exhibit halls that cover everything from dinosaurs to DNA, space, sports and beyond! Come and amaze your brain. See ad on page 13.

Reunion Tower reuniontower.com // 214/712-7040

Experience spring break at Reunion Tower from March 11–15, 2019! Enjoy free activities and entertainment including Sleights of Hand, Technology Twists, Soccer Sights, animals and Superhero Bingo with general admission for the GeO-Deck! See ad on page 10.

Rainforest Cafe rainforestcafe.com // 972/539-5001

Join us for an Easter Adventure April 13 and 20! Get your photo with the Easter Bunny and Cha! Cha! while enjoying the breakfast buffet, waffle and omelette bar and more. Purchase tickets today.

Texas Discovery Gardens txdg.org // 214/428-7476

Visit Texas Discovery Gardens and attend our three daily programs. Enjoy come and go activities for Spring Break Safari Week, March 11–15. Welcome spring at FLORA FEST, a family event on April 14!

See ad on page 32.

march 2019 / dfwchild.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE

CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL G U I D E Want more information?

Find these child care centers and preschools on our website. dfwchild.com

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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THE CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

As we

REIMAGINE SCHOOL,

your student puts their learning into action.

Visit us online at parishepiscopal.org

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

THE CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Prestonwood Christian Learning Center admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

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THE CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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county/locavore. dallas

influencers /

PET PROJECT

a q&a with divya lal, the high-schooler behind a pet education program for kids WORDS LISA SALINAS

PHOTO COURTESY OF DIVYA LAL

I

ABOVE // Divya Lal’s dog, Bruce, served as an inspiration behind creating a pet education program for kiddos, the Junior Duck Solution Squad.

T’S NO SECRET THAT STRAY

animals can pose a problem for communities, and more often than not, they don’t receive proper care.

In December alone, Dallas Animal Services received more than 900 calls about loose stray animals. Richland Collegiate High School senior Divya Lal saw it firsthand in South Dallas, and recounts spotting about 10 stray dogs in a span of only 20 minutes. Lal took action on this issue by creating a pet education program for elementaryage kids as part of her Girl Scouts Gold Award activities. Launched in 2017 in partnership with animal rescue organizations Take Me Home Pet Rescue and Duck Team 6, the Junior Duck Solution Squad has presented its kid-centered curriculum at local recreation centers and schools with high concentrations of stray animals in the area, such as the Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center in South Dallas, La Academia de Estrellas in Oak Cliff and Balch Springs Recreation Center. We sat down with Lal to discuss the program that earned her the Girl Scouts’ 2018 Young Women of Distinction award and how it’s inspiring the next generation to speak up and properly care for our furry friends.

(Continued on the next page)

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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dallas co. / I N F L U E N C E R DallasChild: What motivated you to partner with Take Me Home Pet Rescue and Duck Team 6 to create this program for kids? Divya Lal:

When volunteering at animal shelters, I would often see a trend in the parents and kids who would come in to adopt. Parents carelessly adopted a pet—uninformed of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership—and would leave the ownership responsibilities to their young child. I felt that by teaching kids, they would feel more motivated to take better care of their own pets, inform others on the issues they see within their own community regarding strays and make better decisions in the future regarding pet ownership.

Spanish Immersion School Nursery - Preschool - Elementary - Adults

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DallasSpanishHouse.com 214-826-4410

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march 2019 / dfwchild.com

everything—different questions, kind of similar—but we got so much better feedback. It showed that they learned so much. We still get messages and emails from the recreation centers and they’re like, “Oh hey, someone just talked to me about spaying and neutering.” You see [the kids] applying it.

DC: How do you think parents can engage their children in these conversations at home?

DL: Most of the time, it’s a kid who wants a

dog. When I was younger, I really wanted a dog. My parents were like, “Do you understand the responsibility of it? It’s a lot more than you think it is. It’s not just feeding it every day, you have to walk it, you have to take care of it.” Parents should do that—constantly make sure [their chilDC: Where does your passion for pets come dren] understand the responsibility. Maybe from? DL: I’ve always loved animals. My even taking their kids to an animal shelter, mom says I’m the one who convinced them adopting and fostering. Fostering is a really to get a dog. I want to be able to take care good way to start, because it gives you the of it and I want to raise it, all that kind of experience of doing it stuff. Every time we had and if you’re into it, you to volunteer, sometimes can adopt a pet yourfor school, I was like, selves. Parents of some “Yep, animal shelter— of the kids [we taught] that’s where I am going.” I have told me that they loved spending time with WANT reteach it to them. They animals.

TO HELP? go home and they’re DC: What does your eduSign up to volunteer or like, “Mom, Dad, spaycation program for children donate to Duck Team 6 ing and neutering is this involve? DL: We started out and Take Me Home Pet and we need to do this.” just talking about the probRescue on their websites.

You can see them applylem—we told them how Request the Junior ing it when they come there were a lot of stray Duck Solution Squad to home, at school, with dogs and cats here. We teach kids at your local their friends, even. teach them new vocabulary community center, school DC: How can the words and associate them or day care by emailing Dallas community with proper pet care; we cathy@duckteam6.org and become involved and had words like abandoned. board@duckteam6.org. For help your cause? DL: We also had math sheets, more volunteer or donation I learned through this coloring sheets, reading opportunities with animal project and my [Girl sheets—all based around shelters and outreach Scouts] Gold Award that animals. We wanted to keep programs in Dallas, visit the smallest things can it upbeat. We did one game dallascityhall.com. make a difference—even where it’s like a dog-bone just spending time at an race. They have a spoon, Facebook: @DuckTeam6; animal shelter, helping dog biscuits and they have @TakeMeHomePetRescue Twitter: @DuckTeam6; with an adoption day. to put them into a bucket @TMTPrescue Before I was like, “Yeah and race. We did one that’s Instagram: @DuckTeam6; spaying and neutering more educational, where @TakeMeHomePetRescue is a big deal,” but while it was who can pick the duckteam6.org + tmhpr.com doing this project I was best word for this, who can like, “Wow, spaying and describe what’s going on neutering is an even bigwith this. Each day we did ger deal than I thought it was.” I was able four or five different things. Some of them to see how bad the effects of not doing it are. were games, coloring sheets, learning stuff— I think the best thing anyone can do is volback and forth with those three, mainly. unteer at their shelter. It doesn’t necessarily DC: What feedback have you gotten so far? have to be the one I’m working with, just any DL: When we started the program, we did shelter—anything you do at a shelter can pre-surveys to know what kids knew about make a difference. Even just playing with proper pet care, spaying and neutering—the an animal socializes them; it makes them answers we got were little to none. We were more adoptable and more likely to stay in like, “Is it OK to keep a dog outside in the a home. Donating to shelters, too, because cold?” and they [responded] yes. We ended they are always in need of supplies. up doing post-surveys after we taught them

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DALL AS’

LAKE HIGHLANDS PARK

LOCATION: 9500 E. Lake Highlands Drive, located across from Dallas Academy near the intersection of Buckner Boulevard and East Lake Highlands Drive. Parking available on surrounding streets.

BEST FOR: Boundless fun for kids with boundless energy to match. Stretching across 36.8 acres, the park has enough room for children to run free—thanks to open green spaces, sports fields and age-appropriate play structures.

FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE: Parents congregate at the large cement circle in the middle of the playgrounds to watch their kids, but lack of nearby benches means you can’t sit back and relax. And be sure to bring some sunscreen as this community park offers little shade across those wide, open spaces. On-site amenities include portable restrooms by each parking lot and water fountains (for kids and for dogs) near the playgrounds.

SAFETY: Age-specific play areas help to ensure your littles’ safety. The Weevos playground is recommended for 2- to 5-year-olds, while bigger kids age 5 and up can enjoy the Evos playground. Both structures feature mulch wood chips, which could cause a few scrapes if your kiddo takes a tumble. Buckner Boulevard is relatively busy but it’s only adjacent to the playing fields. All the equipment is well-maintained. —Elizabeth Quinn

+

+Spacious area for kids to run around +Separate play areas for younger and older kids +Two parking lots +Water fountains for kids and dogs +Portable restrooms 52

march 2019 / dfwchild.com

-

–Near a busy street –No benches surrounding the playground area –Little to no shade –Wood-chip surface might cause splinters and scratches

Overall Grade: 3.5/5 slides

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH QUINN

Get connected with DFWChild newsletters to stay updated on local events, exclusive offers, ticket giveaways and more!

Discover your capable, confident Montessori child.

Now enrolling!

At Guidepost, your child will enter a wonderful world of activities, tools, and learning materials, designed to captivate his interest and inspire his budding intelligence in remarkable ways. Early childhood is a brief moment in time when your child’s mind develops rapidly, and he establishes foundational character traits. Take advantage of this critical age!

Visit us online today to RSVP for an event or schedule a tour.

Guidepost Montessori at Eldorado McKinney, TX 75070 l (972) 427-4018 Spanish Immersion now available

Silent Journey and Discovery at Stonebriar Campus Friday, March 22 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Guidepost Montessori at Timber Ridge Frisco, TX 75034 l (469) 458-7200

NEW CAMPUS! Guidepost Montessori at Stonebriar

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dallas co. / R E S T A U R A N T S

KIDS EAT FREE

MONDAY

deals deals for every every for day day

Big Al’s Smokehouse // Barbecue 3317 Inwood Road, Dallas; 214/350-2649; bigalsbbq.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Ages 12 and younger.

Deal also offered Tuesday–Saturday. Deal is offered all day on Saturday.

Café Brazil // Breakfast/Brunch See Sunday for details.

Denny’s // Diner Multiple locations; dennys.com. Up to two free kids’ meals with purchase of an adult meal from 4–10pm. Drinks not included. Deals, days, number of meals and ages served vary by location.

Deal also offered on Tuesday.

Golden Corral // Buffet See Sunday for details.

JC’s Burger House // American 4135 Belt Line Road, Suite 100, Addison; 972/239-2740; jcsburgerhouse.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered on Saturday.

Modern Market // Farm-to-Table See Sunday for details.

Paradise Bakery // Deli 13710 Dallas Parkway, Dallas; 972/503-1800; paradisebakery.com. Free kid’s meal after 4pm with the purchase of an adult entree. Deal also offered on Tuesday.

Café Brazil // Breakfast/Brunch Multiple locations; cafebrazil.com. Free kid’s entree with purchase of an adult entree from 5–10pm. Age 12 and younger. Prices vary by location. Deal also offered Monday–Thursday.

Dickey’s // Barbecue Multiple locations; dickeys.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult dine-in meal of $10 or more, all day. Age 12 and younger. Also, free ice cream every day with dine-in purchase. Details vary by location.

Freebirds World Burrito // Mexican Multiple locations; freebirds.com. Free kid’s entree with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Age 12 and younger. Details vary by location.

Golden Corral // Buffet Multiple locations; goldencorral.com. Kids age 3 and younger eat free. Deal also offered Monday–Saturday.

Modern Market // Farm-to-Table 7949 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 101, Dallas; 469/532-0206; modernmarket.com. Free kid’s entree with purchase of an entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in and takeout. Deal also offered on Monday. Details vary by location.

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Moe’s Southwest Grill // Mexican 13701 Midway Road, Farmers Branch; 972/2332700; 5949 Broadway Blvd., Garland; 972/3035555; moes.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Age 12 and younger.

Posados Cafe // Mexican 4000 Towne Crossing Blvd., Mesquite; 972/682-0688; posados.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Age 10 and younger.

Oliver’s Eatery // Deli 4727 Frankford Road, Suite 373, Dallas; 972/818-5445; oliverseatery.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Dine-in only. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered on Saturday.

Poké Bop // Asian American 4140 Abrams Road, Dallas; 214/821-7653; ilovepokebop.com. Free kid’s meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in and takeout. Deal is also offered Tuesday–Thursday.

Pakpao Thai // Asian 1628 Oak Lawn Ave., Suite 120, Dallas; 214/7497002; 7859 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 150, Dallas; 214/484-8772; pakpaothai.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult dine-in meal, all day.

Age 12 and younger.

Simply Fondue // Fondue 2108 Greenville Ave., Dallas; 214/827-8878; simplyfondue.com. Free kid’s plate with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger.

Steak ’n Shake // Diner Multiple locations; steaknshake.com. One free kid’s plate per every $9 on the ticket, all day. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. Excludes drinks and shakes. Details vary by location. Deal also offered on Saturday.

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American Multiple locations; unleavened.com. Up to two free kids’ meals with purchase of an adult meal after 4pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. Deal also offered Monday–Saturday.

The String Bean // Southern 1310 W. Campbell Road, Richardson; 972/385-3287; thestringbean.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult dinner entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American See Sunday for details.

TUESDAY

Big Al’s Smokehouse // Barbecue See Monday for details.

Café Brazil // Breakfast/Brunch See Sunday for details.

Denny’s // Diner See Monday for details.

Golden Corral // Buffet See Sunday for details.

Jed’s Grill // American 1001 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas; 469/291-5001; jedsgrillrestaurantdallas.com. Free kid’s meal with

©ISTOCK

SUNDAY

Blue Mesa Grill // Mexican 14866 Montfort Drive, Addison; 972/934-0165; bluemesagrill.com. Kids age 5 and younger eat free brunch with purchase of an adult brunch buffet from 9am–3pm. Kids ages 6–11 eat for $7. Deal also offered from 10am–2pm Saturday.

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

Luna Grill // Mediterranean 8165 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 1300, Dallas; 469/480-8480; 1419 E. Renner Road, Suite 510, Richardson; 469/6776812; lunagrill.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult meal from 4–9pm.

Age 10 and younger.

Paradise Bakery // Deli See Monday for details.

Pluckers // American 5100 Belt Line Road, Suite 520, Addison; 972/490-9464; 5500 Greenville Ave., Suite 406, Dallas; 214/363-9464; pluckers.com. Up to two free kids’ meals with purchase of an adult dine-in entree, all day.

Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger. Drinks not included.

Poké Bop // Asian American See Monday for details.

Slater’s 50/50 // American 2817 Greenville Ave., Dallas; 214/8880158; slaters5050.com. Kids age 12 and younger eat free from the kid’s menu with purchase of adult entree, all day. At this location only.

Smashburger // American Multiple locations; smashburger.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Details vary by location.

Texadelphia // Deli Multiple locations; texadelphia.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree or regular sandwich, all day. Dine-in only.

Details vary by location.

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American See Sunday for details.

WEDNESDAY

Big Al’s Smokehouse // Barbecue See Monday for details.

Blue Mesa Grill // Mexican See Sunday for details.

Braindead Brewing // American 2625 Main St., Dallas; 214/749-0600; braindeadbrewing.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree from 5–10pm.

Age 12 and younger.

Charco Broiler // Steakhouse 413 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas; 214/9426806; charcodallas.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree from 5–9pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

Colter’s Texas Bar-B-Q // Barbecue 3904 W. Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas; 972/298-3335; coltersbbq.com. Free kid’s

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Café Brazil // Breakfast/Brunch See Sunday for details.

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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dallas co. /

THE PLACE

Music Lessons

Acoustic & Electric Guitar • Violin Drums • Piano • Voice • Ukulele Adult Recreational Piano Classes Lessons offered to all ages

SW Corner of Preston & Forest 11661 Preston, Suite 136, Dallas, TX 75230 214-369-7772 www.grayschoolofmusic.com ©

meal with purchase of an adult platter after 4pm. Age 12 and younger.

Big Al’s Smokehouse // Barbecue See Monday for details.

Golden Corral // Buffet See Sunday for details.

Café Brazil // Breakfast/Brunch See Sunday for details.

Hook Line & Sinker // Seafood 17602 Preston Road, Dallas; 469/587-5888; hookline-sinker.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult meal from 5–8pm. Ages 12 and younger. At this location only.

Golden Corral // Buffet See Sunday for details.

Kyoto Japanese Steak House // Japanese 1599 Laguna Drive, Rockwall; 214/771-0688; kyotorockwall.com. 9900 Lakeview Parkway, Rowlett; 972/463-0288; kyotohibachisteakhouse.com. Kids age 12 and younger get a free hibachi chicken meal with purchase of an adult hibachi dinner entree of $17 or more. Dine-in only. Details vary by location.

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American See Sunday for details.

Luby’s // Cafeteria Multiple locations; lubys.com. Free kid’s plate with purchase of an adult dine-in meal, all day. Age 10 and younger. Deal also offered Saturday. Details vary by location.

Mattito’s // Mexican 7778 Forest Lane, Dallas; 214/377-9576 1001 MacArthur Park Drive, Irving; 214/3790165; mattitos.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree from 4–9pm. Age 12 and younger. Also, free ice cream for kids every day with dine-in purchase.

Penne Pomodoro // Italian 1924 Abrams Parkway, Dallas; 214/826-6075 11661 Preston Road, Suite 143, Dallas; 214/368-3100; pennepomodoro.com. Up to two free kids’ meals with purchase of an adult entree from 4-10pm. Age 12 and younger.

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

Poké Bop // Asian American See Monday for details.

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Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American See Sunday for details.

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THURSDAY

Beto’s Mexican Restaurant // Mexican 2530 W. Interstate Highway 20, Grand Prairie; 972/660-1289; eatatbetos.com. Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

Poké Bop // Asian American See Monday for details.

FRIDAY

Big Al’s Smokehouse // Barbecue See Monday for details.

Golden Corral // Buffet See Sunday for details.

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American See Sunday for details.

SATURDAY

Big Al’s Smokehouse // Barbecue See Monday for details.

Blue Mesa Grill // Mexican See Sunday for details.

El Rincon Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar // Mexican 1114 S. Elm St., Suite 100, Carrollton; 469/892-6429; elrincontx.com. Free kid’s entree with purchase of an adult entree from 11am–1pm. Age 10 and younger.

Golden Corral // Buffet See Sunday for details.

JC’s Burger House // American See Monday for details.

Luby’s // Cafeteria See Wednesday for details.

Oliver’s Eatery // Deli See Sunday for details.

Steak ’n Shake // Diner See Sunday for details.

Unleavened Fresh Kitchen // American See Sunday for details.

FIND OUR FULL LIST OF LOCAL 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.

©ISTOCK

for

RESTAURANTS

Serving the needs of learning-different students for more than 30 years

KIDS $5 EAT CHEAP!

AND UNDER

Fill little tummies by spending a crisp Lincoln or less. Know of a deal we missed? Send us an email at editorial@dfwchild.com.

• Early childhood through high school • Small class sizes

Buffalo Wild Wings // American Multiple locations; buffalowildwings.com. On Wednesday, kids age 12 and younger make selections from the kids’ menu for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult meal. Times and details vary by location.

• Social emotional development • Speech and occupational therapy on-site • Summer camps

Cici’s Pizza // Pizza Multiple locations; cicis.com. Kids age 3 and younger eat for 99 cents on Tuesday, and kids ages 4–10 eat for under $4 every day.

Drinks charged separately. Prices and days vary by location.

Offering a dual-track, multi-sensory instructional model for students with academic or social learning challenges of varying levels, Oak Hill Academy is dedicated to unveiling the gifts of each student, which might otherwise be hidden in a traditional classroom.

OAK HILL ACADEMY | 9407 MIDWAY ROAD, DALLAS 75220 | 214-353-8804 | www.oakhillacademy.org

Cristina’s // Mexican Multiple locations; cristinasmex.com. On Monday and Tuesday, kids age 12 and younger eat for under $2. Two discounted kids’ meals with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Dine-in only.

DALL AS-FORT WORTH

VOL. 11 ISSUE NO. 1

El Chico Café // Mexican Multiple locations; elchico.com. On Thursday, kids age 12 and younger eat for 99 cents from the Little Amigos menu with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Dine-in and takeout. Details vary by location.

MEET CYSTIC FIBROSIS ADVOCATE

JENNIFER JAETZOLD

HOW TO GET YOUR KID TO DO CHORES

GOOD GRIEF

Spaghetti Warehouse // Italian 1815 N. Market St., Dallas; 214/651-8475; meatballs.com. On Monday, kids age 10 and younger eat for $1.99 all day with purchase of an adult meal. Up to two kids’ meals per adult. Dine-in only.

HELPING YOUR CHILD GRIEVE WELL

78 MUST-HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES

FIVE THINGS TO DO THIS SPRING

PUBLISHED BY

DFW

The magazine for families living and thriving with learning differences and special needs Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.

Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.

SPRING 2019

A RESOURCE FOR FAMILIES LIVING WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES AND SPECIAL NEEDS

McAlister’s Deli // Deli Multiple locations; mcalistersdeli.com. Kids’ meals cost $1.99 when you dine in or $2.99 for takeout, all day, every day. Age 12 and younger. Details vary by location.

Texas de Brazil // Brazilian 15101 Addison Road, Addison; 972/3851000; 2727 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas; 214/720-1414; texasdebrazil.com. Kids age 2 and younger eat free with purchase of an adult meal. Kids ages 3−5 eat for $5.

Kids ages 6–12 eat for half price. All day, every day. Weekend lunch from 11:30am– 3:30pm includes drinks and dessert (Addison only). Details vary by location.

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2 1 F A M I LY- F R I E N D LY E V E N T S Y O U C A N ’ T M I S S I N

MARCH

FREE FIRST SATURDAYS

NA SH E R S C U L P T U R E CENTER March 2 Shake your sillies out to beats

by DJ Sudie, snap family selfies in the photo booth and meet with three guest artists for art making and sketching in the galleries—all this and more during the Nasher’s free monthly family day.

Kid-friendly art chats begin at 11:30am and 12:30pm.

Complimentary admission continues through 5pm. FREE 2001 Flora St., Dallas; 214/242-5100 nashersculpturecenter.org

PHOTOS COURTSEY OF B. UNDERWATER BUBBLE SHOW; NORTH TEXAS IRISH FESTIVAL; NORTHPARK CENTER

ANASTASIA

M U SIC HA L L AT FA I R PA R K Through March 3 Remember the 1997 animated movie? This Broadway musical reimagines the century-old story of the young woman who believes she may be the lost Romanov princess.

Follow Anya from the Russian Empire to 1920s Paris as she searches for the truth and for her family. Anastasia runs about 2.5 hours including one intermission. Recommended for children age 8 and older.

Free booster seats available to give your kids a lift. Tickets from $20.

909 First Ave., Dallas; 800/745-3000 dallassummermusicals.org

FAMILY CONCERT – MOVIE ROYALTY

C OU RT YA R D T H E AT E R March 3 Come early for the instrument petting zoo, crafts and the conductor’s station beginning at 2:15pm. Then settle into your seats for a 45-minute concert of favorites from The Lion King, Moana, Star Wars, Beauty and the Beast and Sleeping Beauty,

ARTROCKS!

MARCH 10 // SEE A MODERN-DAY FAIRY TALE SET TO MUSIC AND ...

BUBBLES AT THE EISEMANN CENTER.

performed by the Plano Symphony Orchestra with extra entertainment provided by actors from North Texas Performing Arts. Tickets from $8.

1509 Ave. H, Plano; 972/4737262 planosymphony.org

AWAY FROM THE WHITE HOUSE – PRESIDENTIAL RETREATS

G E ORG E W. BU SH P R E SI DE N T IA L CENTER Opens March 6 This new exhibition explores U.S. presidential retreats over the last two centuries, from Mount Vernon to Camp David to Mar-a-Lago. Take your own mini vacation any day of the week to the Bush Presidential Center to tour the exhibit and discover how presidents have used their retreats for rest, relaxation and work. $16 general admission; free for members and children 4 and younger.

N ORT H PA R K C E N T E R March 9 Meet at NorthCourt for afternoon fun inspired by graffiti artist turned neo-expressionist icon Jean-Michel Basquiat. Local artists with Artist DIY, the Creative Arts Center, KidArt and Sour Grapes lead the kids through creative art projects.

Science-focused walkSTEM tours and a scavenger hunt with Bookmarks library also available. FREE 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 214/363-7441 northparkcenter.com

2943 SMU Blvd., Dallas; 214/200-4300 georgewbushlibrary.smu.edu

NORTH TEXAS IRISH FESTIVAL

FA I R PA R K March 8–10 Experience step dancing, sheepherding and shepherd’s pie at this annual festival celebrating Irish and Celtic traditions. Find entertainment spread out over 13 stages, kid-focused fun down Urchin Street, and the festival’s first-ever fun run on Saturday morning.

Single-day admission from $10; multiday admission from $25. Free admission Friday from 6–7pm, for all children 11 and younger with an adult and for those dressed as leprechauns (in full dress and carrying a pot of gold).

Discounts available with advance online purchase.

1300 Robert B. Cullum Blvd., Dallas; 214/821-4173 ntif.org

THE UNDERWATER BUBBLE SHOW

E I SE M A N N C E N T E R March 10 Mr. B finds himself transported to Bubblelandia, a world inhabited by seahorses, mermaids and loads of bubbles. See the Cirque du Soleil-inspired family production with smoke-filled soap bubbles, soap bubble tornadoes, laser lights and optical illusions. Tickets from $24.

2351 Performance Drive, Richardson; 972/744-4650 eisemanncenter.com

THE BREMEN TOWN MUSICIANS

W I N SP E A R OP E R A HO U SE March 16 This Dallas Opera family production is an operatic version of the Brothers Grimm

fairy tale. Hear the rooster, dog, cat and donkey sing the music of Rossini, Donizetti, Offenbach, Sullivan and Verdi (sung in English with English supertitles) and come early to enjoy kids’ activities in the lobby. Tickets are $5. Receive one free ticket by donating two food items for the North Texas Food Bank.

2403 Flora St., Dallas; 214/443-1000 dallasopera.org/family

DALLAS FESTIVAL OF COLORS

S O U T H F OR K R A N C H March 16 Celebrate a happy Holi at this Hindu spring festival by tossing handfuls of colorful powder onto yourself and fellow revelers. Enjoy color throws every half hour and all-day entertainment including live Indian drumming and dance performances and vegetarian food options. Tickets are $10 online and $15 at the event; free for children under 5. Bring a change of clothes.

White T-shirts available for the first 500 guests. Colors available for purchase at the venue for $3 and $5 per packet.

3700 Hogge Road, Parker; 972/750-1419 funasia.net

THE WORLD OF MUSICALS

M O ODY P E R F OR M A N C E HA L L March 21 In this mega-size revue, one vocal cast tackles the greatest hits in musical history, ranging from heavyweights Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera to more upbeat favorites Dirty Dancing and Mamma Mia! Hear them all on Thursday night when the Dallas Museum of Art presents this family-friendly show as part of its Arts & Letters Live series, and vote in advance

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calendar annual book fest where 75 authors discuss their books in small breakout panels and meet their readers while signing their books. Are you a teacher or librarian? Sign up for the educator day on March 22. FREE 500 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving; 972/721-4612 northtexasteenbookfestival.com

FIREFLY RUN

TUCK EVERLASTING

DA L L A S C H I L DR E N ’ S T H E AT E R March 22–April 7 Say that you find the literal fountain of youth. Would you drink from it? Young Winnie Foster faces this dilemma in the modern classic children’s book written by Natalie Babbitt in 1975, now adapted for the stage. Recommended for ages 10 and older. Tickets from $15.

5938 Skillman St., Dallas; 214/740-0051 dct.org

NORTH TEXAS TEEN BOOK FESTIVAL

I RV I N G C ON V E N T ION CENTER March 23 Contain your excitement, readers—or don’t. Big names Tahereh Mafi (A Very Large Expanse of Sea) and Tomi Adeyemi (Children of Blood and Bone) keynote the YA author conversation at this

R E D TA I L A M P H I T H E AT E R March 23 You won’t need daylight to see your feet on this running course, just the LED gear you’ll be wearing for the 5K/10K, night festival and after-party with DJs and a costume contest. Swag bags include gear that mimics the effect of glowing fireflies.

Meet at the newly renamed amphitheater at Oak Point Park. Open to all ages.

Registration from $45 and increases as event nears.

Proceeds benefit Scottish Rite Hospital.

2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano fireflyrun.com/locations/ dallas2019

TEXAS FLY FISHING & BREW FESTIVAL

PLANO EVENT CENTER March 23–24 Step up your fishing game by watching casting and fly tying demonstrations, taking a casting or fly tying class, and testing out the latest fly rods yourself at this third annual familyfriendly event for both experts and novices. $20 general admission each day; $35 weekend pass. Free

for children 16 years and younger with an adult.

2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano; 703/402-8338 txflyfishingfestival.org

TWELFTH NIGHT

W Y LY T H E AT R E March 29–April 28 Think all of Shakespeare is too elevated for kids? You’ll be proven wrong when the Dallas Theater Center presents Twelfth Night, one of the Bard’s most-loved comedies, as the last of its season’s family series productions. In the play set in Italy in the 1600s, Viola loses everything in a shipwreck, disguises herself as a man to find work and promptly falls in love with Duke Orsino.

Discover this tale of mistaken identity and love triangles with tickets starting from $17.50. Recommended for age 9 and older.

2400 Flora St., Dallas; 214/880-0202 dallastheatercenter.org

FESTIVAL OF JOY

K LY DE WA R R E N PA R K March 30 Ratha Yatra (which translates to “chariot festival”) is an ancient Indian festival going back 5,000 years. Discover more about Indian traditions at this second annual party beginning with a parade honoring the Hindu deity Krishna and continuing at the park with sari and turban dress up, henna tattoo art, authentic music and a vegetarian feast. FREE 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas; 214/716-4500 fojdallas.com

SHH! WE HAVE A PLAN

MARCH 23 // YOUNG READERS CAN MEET THEIR FAVORITE YA AUTHORS AND OTHER FANS AT THE NORTH TEXAS TEEN BOOK FESTIVAL.

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E I SE M A N N C E N T E R March 31 You don’t always need words to teach a lesson— sometimes you just need music, puppetry and a little bit of magic. In this nonverbal production based on the Chris Haughton book of the same name, three family members concoct one ridiculous plan after another to capture a bird, teaching kids that kindness and respect are more important than getting what we want.

Tickets from $12.

2351 Performance Drive, Richardson; 972/744-4650 eisemanncenter.com

LUCKY DOG Family entertainment this March goes to the dogs, sort of. Pay tribute to your family’s pups with a St. Patrick’s Day parade, to the cartoon heroes in a live-action Paw Patrol musical, and to another “dog” you’ve never heard of—the tapdancing kind.

PAW PATROL LIVE! THE GREATEST PIRATE ADVENTURE

T H E T H E AT R E AT G R A N D P R A I R I E March 1–3 Set sail on a new adventure with Ryder and puppy pirates Chase, Marshall and Skye. In this live show based on the Nick Jr. preschool series, the squad discovers a secret treasure map and races against time to find the pirate treasure before Mayor Humdinger gets his paws on it. General tickets from $25.

VIP (Very Important Pup) packages include a premium seat, commemorative lanyard and after-show meet and greet with members of the Paw Patrol.

1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie; 888/929-7849 theatregp.com

KREWE OF BARKUS

H I STOR IC D OW N TOW N M C K I N N E Y March 3 Register your pup for McKinney’s own Mardi Gras dog parade modeled after the Mystic Krewe of Barkus in New Orleans.

Costume prizes awarded for dogs in each size group, so take this year’s theme—A Barkus Salute to Reality TV—and run with it. This year’s top honor will be crowned King of the Hill. $5 per dog and/or float. Free entry to Pawty in the Park and on the square.

111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney; 972/547-2660 mckinneytexas.org

TAP DOGS

W I N SP E A R OP E R A HO U SE March 24 If your kids have ever uttered, “Tap dancing isn’t cool,” don’t miss out on this chance to change their minds. The production of Tap Dogs is “part theatre, part rock concert, part construction site” as a cast of dancers swings from scaffolding, beats on drums, stomps in water puddles and literally makes sparks fly with steel-cutting tools. Tickets from $29.

2403 Flora St., Dallas; 214/880-0202 attpac.org

DALLAS BLOOMS – LIFE’S A PICNIC

DA L L A S A R B OR E T UM A N D B OTA N IC A L G A R DE N Through April 7 Dallas Arboretum highlights its status as a top destination for picnics with this year’s Dallas Blooms theme. Pack your lunches and come to admire the festival’s pièce de résistance: a larger-thanlife topiary scene made up

of a 40- by 40-foot picnic blanket, giant ant and basket.

Come for the petting zoo and face painting on Mondays and Tuesdays and more family fun during themed weekends in the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. $15 adults; $10 kids ages 3–12. $3 for children’s garden.

8525 Garland Road, Dallas; 214/515-6615 dallasarboretum.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 MONTH, CHECK OUR ONLINE CALENDAR AT D F W C H I L D.CO M/C A L E N DA R.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LINDA BLASE ; NORTH TEXAS TEEN BOOK FESTIVAL; CHRIS RICHARDSON; VSTAR ENTERTAINMENT GROUP/NICKELODEON

for the songs you want to hear. Tickets from $25.

2520 Flora St., Dallas; 800/514-3849 dma.org/programs/event/ world-musicals

THE SOURCE 5 Ways To Have An Awesome Birthday Party!

Choose your favorite Princess, Pirate or Superhero to come to your next event!

Includes: Games, Treasure Hunt, Face Painting, Balloon Animals and a special gift!

Go To Saturn5Science.com To Find Out How 972-533-0895

214-704-8378

JessicasPrincessParties.com

Park Cities Day School

Licensed In-home Daycare

Where minds grow in a loving place

NOW ENROLLING

ENROLLING NOW 6 weeks–5 years Soccer, Ballet, Computer classes 469-776-5501 parkcitiesdayschool.org PCdayschool@sbcglobal.net 5923 Royal Ln., Dallas 75230

• 18 months–5 years • Secured iPad entry system ensures a safe environment

Now enrolling for spring and summer classes Visit www.colormeempowered.org for more information.

• Sensory play, discovery play and physical development

lonestarplayhouse.org / 972-977-2668

Pregnancy Research Study Study investigating the effects of weight gain and sleep apnea on pregnancy outcomes.

Recruiting women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant Call 214-345-4607 or email IEEMPregnancy@TexasHealth.org

Seeking Surrogate Mothers Compensation: $30K–$50K+ Help an infertile couple finally have their baby by becoming a surrogate mom!

• • • •

between the ages of 21–40 healthy non-smokers enjoy being pregnant currently raising their own child

Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.

214-390-4024 www.deliveradream.com

Sign up for Thrive’s Weekend Guide newsletter, highlighting local, special needs-friendly events. dfwchild.com/newsletter

dfwchild.com / march 2019

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confessions

MOMMY FAILS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN + COMPILED BY LISA SALINAS

I TOLD PRESTON TO PLAY WITH HIS PLAY-DOH, TO WHICH HE RESPONDED, ‘IT’S NOT PLAY-DOH, IT’S PUTTY.’ HE THEN LINED UP HIS SLIME, PUTTY AND PLAY-DOH TO SHOW ME THE DIFFERENCE. APPARENTLY, I REALLY NEED TO LEARN HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE.” —MARIE, DALLAS

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I was very happy after I finished a big project. My 5-year-old daughter saw me and said, ‘Mom, I’m very proud you.’

My heart melted. She then said, ‘One question—what does “proud” mean?’”

—BONDIE, LEWISVILLE

“In my failed attempt to travel light, I packed all of my feminine items in my little one’s bag. This left my sweet girl with absolutely no diapers but plenty of mom’s liners—definitely my first child and a hard lesson learned.”

—SHAQUINN, HIGHLAND VILLAGE

Got a parenting fail you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you. Send it to editorial@dfwchild.com.

“On cleaning day, my son saw me spray Febreze on the couch and asked me what it was. I said it gives a fresh, clean smell.

An hour later, I found him in the laundry spraying all his dirty clothes with Febreze.”

—CLAUDIA, FORT WORTH

“I said mucha habla to my kid. He repeated me, telling the Target cashier, ‘My mommy says I mucha habla—that means I talk too much.’” —ZOYA, MCKINNEY

I ALWAYS LOOK FOR MOMENTS TO TEACH MY 2-YEAROLD VOCABULARY. ONE DAY, I NOTICED HER SMELLING HER OWN DIAPER AND SAID, ‘NO, THAT’S DISGUSTING!’ A WEEK LATER WE TRIED A FAMILY-OWNED RESTAURANT WHERE THEY BROUGHT HER THEIR VERSION OF MAC AND CHEESE. WHEN THEY CAME AROUND AND ASKED HER HOW IT TASTED, SHE REPLIED, ‘DISGUSTING!’” —ESTELA, IRVING

The Happiest Students in Texas?

Unlike other schools, each student's education is personalized to reach their maximum potential. Our students are happy to be challenged and achieve at higher levels.

The Graduating Class of 2018: • Averages over $80,000 of scholarships awarded per graduate.

• Averages almost a full year of completed college credit per graduate.

• Averages a 3.7 GPA on a 4.0 scale in college work, done at college.

Students may enter between the ages of 5 years old to 17 years old. Here are a few of our unique differences: • Students start six years of Mandarin Chinese language classes at five years old.

• Advanced students may start college work as young as 14 years old.

• Students advance faster by ability and are not held back by grade level.

If you want to be sure you are getting the best education, and life, for your student, visit YORKTOWN EDUCATION.

Call us at 972-733-0800 to arrange a visit! www.yorktowned.com