22 D E C E M B E R 2019
MANAGING HOLIDAY
FAMILY DRAMA
EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH
HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD
MEET THE RAMBLING REDHEAD JENNIFER TODRYK
+
WHERE TO BE MERRY IN FREDERICKSBURG
MOMMY BURNOUT
HERE’S HOW TO FIX IT
Come and discover KidZania, a dynamic city built to engage, educate and empower kids through 100+ professions kids can role-play.
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pages / D E C E M B E R
2019
DEPARTMENTS NOTED 9 Peace on Earth? How to manage your family during the holidays without being a Grinch
REAL MOMS 13 Mom Next Door / Jennifer Todryk 16 18
13 ABOVE //Jennifer Todryk’s adventures as a mother of three are documented in her popular blog, Life as a Rambling Redhead. Next up? A show for HGTV.
PHOTOTOGRAPHY BY CARTER ROSE; CINDY JAMES; ©ISTOCK; ILLUSTRATION BY MARY DUNN
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KID CULTURE 35 Celebrate Good Times How to respectfully join other cultures’ holiday traditions
38 Travel / Merry Weihnachten!
The German-inspired holiday festivities in Fredericksburg are an annual destination for many families
49 Calendar / The Agenda
Our favorite family events this month
FEATURE 20
The Rambling Redhead talks going viral, homeschooling her son and filming a new show for HGTV 6 Things... / Holiday Guide Everything Christmas from our Mom Next Door Routines / Sonay Baker Working for Southwest Airlines, running face painting and photography businesses and raising a toddler keep this mom hustling
LOCAVORE 53 Influencer
Burn Out
In part one of our series, we found out why so many moms are burned out. Now we talk solutions—how do we beat burnout, for good?
words Jessica Elliott
ON THE COVER
56 Playground Review 58 Kids Eat Cheap MOM APPROVED 24 This Month: Dentists Local dentists and orthodontists nominated by readers
COLUMNS
4 Hello / Editor’s Note
6 dfwchild.com / Off the Pages
Creating Magic words Heather Vance Devers
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DallasChild: Makenna, 6, Dallas
CollinChild: Kiara, 7, Frisco
Photography: Cindy James Hair & Makeup Artist: Kay Reeder / Independent Artists Art Direction/Styling: Heather Vance Devers
From cold and flu season tips to planning your holiday outfits words Sydney Blalock Ritchie
62 Confessions / Mom Truths
A forgotten Elf on the Shelf and more LOL moments for the holiday season dfwchild.com / december 2019
3
hello / E D I T O R ’ S
ABOVE // Heather Vance Devers in her home with her daughter, Betty, and son, Jude. The Weekend Guide
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NOTE
T
creating magic
HE HOLIDAYS ARE DIFFERENT FOR MOMS than for everyone else. My girlfriend lovingly—and eventually begrudgingly—calls our role during the holidays “creating magic.” And by Christmas Day, we’re all done “creating magic” for our kids. It’s moving the elf every night, going to all the holiday parties at school (which cut in on our limited time to get things done during this crazy season), wrapping a million presents, handling family members that you purposefully don’t see every day of the year—and that’s just the icing on the sugar cookies. Let’s not forget making unique teacher gifts, getting Christmas cards out on time (they’re not New Year’s cards after all) and decorating every inch of your house in glitz and greenery. Honestly, just typing this makes me tired. I’m proposing an amendment to this craziness, if that’s even possible: Let’s not put so much pressure on ourselves to create magic this holiday season. Because mamas, we’re all tired. RSVP with your regrets to a few events without the guilt (“no” is a full and valid sentence), create boundaries with Uncle Steve when he talks politics that don’t align with yours, send Dad or Grandma to one of those class parties, and support a local business (and probably a mompreneur) by letting them make awesome gifts for your kids’ teachers so that you don’t find glitter in your house for the next six months. Delegate, Mama—it’s OK. You deserve to take a second to admire the lights and sip the cocoa. And maybe, just maybe, if you start taking care of yourself, you’ll see the magic this season too.
KORENA SINNETT
Heather Vance Devers
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
PUBLISHER/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
20
Joylyn Niebes
CREATIVE + CONTENT DIRECTOR Heather Vance Devers
EDITORIAL
Executive Editor
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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
N O V E M B E R 2019
EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH
COLLIN
THE MAGAZINE PARENTS LIVE BY IN COLLIN COUNT Y
N O V E M B E R 2019
HOW TO THROW A HIGH TEA PARTY
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HOW BURNOUT AFFECTS YOUR CHILD
EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH
IS BLUE LIGHT REALLY HARMFUL? MEET MOTHER BEVERAGE’S ALLISON ELLSWORTH
IS BLUE LIGHT REALLY HARMFUL? MEET MOTHER BEVERAGE’S ALLISON ELLSWORTH
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A FAMILY GUIDE TO GREENVILLE SOUTH CAROLINA
MOMMY BURNOUT IT’S REAL. LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.
+
A FAMILY GUIDE TO GREENVILLE SOUTH CAROLINA
HOW BURNOUT AFFECTS YOUR CHILD
MOMMY BURNOUT IT’S REAL. LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.
Elizabeth Smith Digital Editor
Sydney Blalock Ritchie Editorial Intern
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online / D F W C H I L D . C O M WORDS SYDNEY BLALOCK RITCHIE
OFF THE PAGES
what’s in store this month on dfwchild.com
register with us for great benets
SOMEHOW, WE ARE ALREADY AT THE END OF THE YEAR. In just a few short weeks, we will say goodbye to 2019 and usher in 2020. But before we pop the champagne, let’s focus on what’s coming up this month—including the holidays! If you’re like us and want to get in on as much of the season’s fun as possible, be sure to check out our website for weekend guide inspiration. You’ll find all the events and details you’ll need. While you’re there, sign up to receive our magazine in your mailbox every month and our e-newsletter every week.
Holiday Card Help
Still need family photos for your holiday cards? A local photographer shares her tips on where to take the pictures, whether you should use props, the importance of location and more.
Keeping the Bugs Away: Cold and Flu Season Advice
Find a store near you or shop online at
We spoke with the experts at Cook Children’s and Children’s Health about all things cold and flu. Check out the article for clarity on the vaccine, treatment, myths and how to build your immune system to avoid complications.
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
How To: Holiday Outfits
Rummaging through your closet looking for the perfect outfit for your next holiday party? No need to worry; we have some fashion finds for you. From what’s on trend to how to coordinate different colors and prints—you’ll look like a million bucks.
©ISTOCK
everything for
noted.
PEACE ON EARTH? keeping family conflict at bay during the holidays WORDS ASHLEY HAYS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN
T
—
HE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON CAN BE PRETTY OVERWHELMING
there’s the cooking, the cleaning, the shopping, the entertaining and the wrapping, all on top of attempting to run a (somewhat) functional household. Add the tension that can come from being around certain family members, and the “most wonderful time of the year” can quickly become The Nightmare Before Christmas. “I started planning for Christmas in September,” laughs Tarrant County mom Callie Miller as her three kids squeal happily in the background. “I have four different notebooks and calendars to keep everyone on track.” While planning ahead is a good way to start, sometimes holiday family dynamics test the limits of our preparation. Here’s how to juggle a multitude of responsibilities—and personalities—without turning into a total Grinch. → dfwchild.com / december 2019
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noted / P E A C E
ON EARTH?
tolerate, but I can’t get her to do the same.” MANAGE EXPECTATIONS Her advice to mothers is to try not to take Licensed professional counselor Brittany anything personally. Stilwell of Prism Therapy Associates in Dallas “You may want to address it, but somebelieves that a big culprit of stress is this times that only adds to the conflict instead commercialized idea of what our family is of diffusing it,” explains J. When she senses supposed to look like. a disagreement arising, she steps outside “We have these huge ideas of what the for a breather. “Try to think of something holidays should be and how we want our about the holidays that makes you happy family to be,” she says. “But, at the end of while you’re outside alone,” she suggests. the day, you’ve still got goofy cousin Eddie “That way when you come back inside, who doesn’t understand social cues. You you’re better mentally equipped can’t expect your family memto handle snide remarks bers to behave any differor what you perceive as ently than they normally sugar-coated insults.” do. It’s exhausting trying to change and COMMUNICATE control that.” It’s not a recent revelaKeeping realistic tion that good comexpectations—rather munication can help than comparing your with relational conflict. family to a Hallmark Stilwell stresses this to her movie—can help you clients, adding that avoid unnecessary poor communication emotional distress from the receiving end and conflict. Taking care of yourself mentally is linked of your message isn’t to reduced stress and can be helpyour burden to bear. SET BOUNDARIES ful when handling conflict with family J has experienced Family gatherings members, but it can be difficult to wind this with her exbring a lot to the down and refocus on your own. There husband, the father of table. Our favorites are several (free!) apps available that are her firstborn. “Keeping are the love, the quick and accessible when you need to the peace with her dad laughs and the memduring the holiday ories, but sometimes take a few minutes to regroup. The CALM app (calm.com) offers segments as short season was somewhat long-term grudges as three minutes to guide you through difficult because it and differing politiself-meditation and relaxation. STOP, all depended on his cal views can pull BREATHE & THINK (stopbreathethink.com) mood,” she says. To up a seat as well. keep conflict at bay, Stilwell stresses that asks how you’re feeling and delivers a it’s important to short meditation exercise tailored to your communicating well know how to handle emotions. Both apps are available for iOS with each other was a these situations and and Android and offer additional features must. “I tried to only plan events with her when to just excuse for a fee. when it was my weekyourself. end so I wouldn’t be impeding on his time, “There are different kinds of boundarand if it was just unavoidable, he knew way ies,” she says. “Some people you only need in advance,” she says. a picket fence, but others you need a prison wall.” If a subject comes up that you’re GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK uncomfortable with, let your family know Sometimes the right environment needs to that disrespecting boundaries comes with be fostered to keep the peace. consequences. “I always try to have an activity for the “Saying ‘I’m not going to have this conkids to do to keep them distracted for a versation with you, and if you continue I will while and give the parents a little bit of a leave the room’ tells them that you have set break,” Miller says. “Last year I set up a your boundary, and leaving the room is the cookie station for Christmas and let them consequence of crossing that,” Stilwell says. decorate their own.” Giving the littles “Just because you’re capable of putting up something to keep them occupied while you with something doesn’t mean that it’s healthy connect with relatives alleviates some of the to do so.” chaos that might otherwise put you on edge. A Fort Worth mom of four, who asked Stilwell says that managing family durto go by “J” for anonymity, says she’s learned ing the holidays ultimately comes down that you can set boundaries for yourself, but to respecting your limits. “I have so many you can’t expect everyone to respect them. parents come to me asking, ‘How do I do “My mother-in-law and I don’t exactly it all?’” she says. “My answer is, ‘You don’t see eye to eye,” J reveals. “I’ve put up my have to.’” own boundaries on what I will and will not 10
december 2019 / dfwchild.com
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real moms. INSTA(NT) STAR AGE 31 HAILS FROM Burleson LIVES IN Collin County SIGNIFICANT OTHER Husband
Mike, regional sales director and army veteran Kiddos Von, 6, Berkley, 4, and Vivienne, 1 RECENT ACTIVITY Interviewing the cast of Frozen II at the Los Angeles red carpet premiere and filming a pilot for HGTV set to premiere in 2020 ALMA MATER Tarleton State University for fashion merchandising DREAM JOB AS A KID “Probably an actress. I look at it now, and it’s not the same. Something in the arts was my dream.” WHERE YOU CAN FIND HER
ABOVE //
lifeasaramblingredhead.com and at Village Coffee in Allen (soon to be Armor Coffee), which she and Mike own
mom next door /
JENNIFER TODRYK
the rambling redhead INTERVIEW HEATHER VANCE DEVERS PHOTOGRAPHY CARTER ROSE
Jennifer Todryk is a connoisseur of Christmas decor—her home is decorated with multiple trees.
I
F YOU’VE EVER CAUGHT ONE OF JENNIFER TODRYK’S STORIES ON INSTAGRAM , under the moniker of the Rambling Redhead, you know that her quirky, honest take on raising three young kids, marriage, fashion, home decorating and even Instagram itself strikes a major chord with her many followers. Her trademark beautiful red hair is not the only thing that sets her apart from the countless other moms on Instagram. She’s gone from 50,000 followers to 424,000 followers (and counting) in less than a year, and with an HGTV show filmed and ready to premiere in 2020, it seems like this is just the beginning for Todryk. “She’s the perfect combination of Lucille Ball and Joanna Gaines in one person,” her husband Mike says. “She’s funny. She’s witty. She’s got physical comedy. She’s great with timing. She’s intuitively good at business, and like Joanna, she’s just got an impeccable eye.” → dfwchild.com / december 2019
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real moms / M O M
New Beginnings Start Here
ABOVE // TODRYK GIVES SNAPSHOTS—AND HILARIOUS COMMENTARY—OF HER DAILY LIFE WITH HER THREE KIDS AND HUSBAND.
on my platforms. It definitely has given me a sense that I’m supposed to be here, like God wants me to do this, and I keep that in my mind, as far as my message I send out, the light that I shed, as far as being positive. I believe if you are you and you do you, you’ll find your people, and those are the best people to have because they’ll show up for you.
“I NEEDED TO CREATE SOMETHING, EVEN IF ONLY MY MOM AND MY DAD WERE GOING TO READ IT.”
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
Why did you start your blog? The blog started because I was just kind of in a funk. I was in a low point. I had just had Berkley, and the transition to two kids was so tough for me—way tougher than three. I had no identity. I was a workaholic and I would bring my work home, and I really found joy in presenting and making stuff, trying to hustle and be the best at whatever job title I had. [As a mom of two] I just needed something fun to do. I needed an outlet. I needed to create something, even if only my mom and my dad were going to read it. It didn’t matter. It was just spending the hours and the time using my mind for something that was fun. And then you went viral. Yeah, I had a post go viral my fifth week of blogging. I just got really lucky. I remember when I went viral—I restarted my computer because I thought there was a glitch in my AdSense counter. I was so naïve. I will say I’ve been very fortunate in how fast that I have grown
Why do you feel like you resonate with people so much? I’m
weird. I do little skits and stuff. Most people, when they make a profile in their home decor or fashion, or whatever, you stay in your lane. That’s what you do. I didn’t know what I wanted to do, and that’s why my blog was called Life as a Rambling Redhead. It’s funny—I originally wanted to do a home decorating blog. That’s what I was going to do, but I didn’t have any home decorating to talk about, so I did a post called “I, Mother of Baby Terrorists,” and that one did really good, and so I wrote a second funny one, and that one did really good. So I’m so glad I did Life as a Rambling Redhead because
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARTER ROSE
We do everything we can to help get a kid back on track, whether that is in the family, social or school arena.
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NEXT DOOR
even though it’s obnoxiously long, and now, I’m just pretty much the Rambling Redhead on everything, it’s just all my life. Tell me about your upcoming HGTV Show. How did that happen?
Last spring, [in] 2018, I had a production company reach out to me on Instagram and I was really excited, but they wanted me to shoot some video for them, and basically, it was going to be me and a friend doing home decorating. But the problem was they wanted us to film us working with clients. So me and my friend were going to decorate homes. We even went out and got an estimate of someone’s house and did a whole consultation. Then I get pregnant, and I’m like, This just isn’t meant to be. I’m creating a business that I’m not even doing, technically, which didn’t seem authentic to me. I told my friend, “I’m so sorry, but I can’t do it.” One month later, I get an email from another production company. I’m like, What is happening?! So, I’m like, OK, fine. I’ll jump on a phone call, even though I knew I wasn’t going to do it. I just got pregnant. So, I talked to them and they were so easy. They were like, “No, we’ll do everything. We just need you. You like to renovate homes. We’ve seen your Instagram. We’ve seen you in your stories. We would love to make a show around you. We’ll find the homes. We find the clients. You literally show up. You’re just doing the renovation and we’re going to help you along the way.” They came out to my house and shot right after that. It was from the very beginning quick, easy, painless. I just felt like God made it too easy. He was like, “Here, dummy. I’m trying to get your attention.” It was a sign, and I did it, and it’s been great. What was the craziest part about filming the TV show? The kids. Having to worry about the kids, managing the kids. The way you film it, you have to remember, OK, this scene, we had already done this, but we hadn’t done this yet. You film out of order. That’s how they’re all filmed. In the back of my head, I’m like, I hope Mike remembered that he’s supposed to leave at this time. Is he running late? Is he talking too much? You still are a mom and you’re still worried about everybody else, even though you don’t need to be. But that doesn’t shut off because your husband’s got it. It doesn’t shut off. You’re still always concerned about everybody’s well-being, and that drives you up a wall, and I had to think many times, Shut it off. It’s going to be alright. What has been your biggest challenge as a parent or a mom? The mom guilt’s always there, but I can’t say just one thing because it just depends on what I’m doing that day. When we’re filming, it’s the guilt that I’m not there. Whenever I’m here, it’s the guilt that I’m working, not crafting. When I’m crafting, it’s the guilt that I’m crafting and not cleaning. I feel like mom guilt’s always there. It just shows its face differently. I definitely hold anxiety with that kind of stuff. What is your best advice for parenting? Have fun with it. I really do feel like happiness is a lot of choice and that you can choose to be happy. Find the joy. What was behind your decision to homeschool your son? We homeschool half time. Von’s really smart, so because of that, it just felt weird for him to go to kindergarten. He’s been reading since he was 2 1/2. He read before he could talk. I taught him to talk by taping up sight words on the wall and being like, “Which one says ‘can’?” And he’d point to “can.” I’d be like, “Say ‘can.’” He’d be like, “Ca.” I’m like, This makes absolutely no sense. I didn’t register as him being super intelligent back then. He was my first. I didn’t know. I was just in my own little bubble. He’d walk down the stairs in the morning and be like, “Mom, what’s the climate in Africa right now?” I’d be like, “What are you talking about?” He’s like, “Is it humid? Is it like 96 degrees?” I’m like, “I don’t know.” He has [school] three days a week, and then he is [homeschooled] here two days a week, and I’m able to incorporate stuff that’s on his level. He does multiplication, division since he was in kindergarten, but we’ve stopped. I’m like, “I’m not doing algebra with you. You just turned 6.” dfwchild.com / december 2019
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real moms / 6
THINGS …
INTERVIEW HEATHER VANCE DEVERS
HOLIDAY GUIDE jennifer todryk’s favorite things to put you in the spirit of the season
FO R S PR E A D I N G CH E E R
2
g“Our favorite Christmas tradition is the German
pickle.” To learn
FO R WA RM I N G U P
more about the pickle
ornament see page 35 CHRISTMAS PICKLE ORNAMENT // $8.58; amazon.com
4
FO R S I N G I N G I N TH E S E A SO N
“WE ALWAYS MAKE STUFF FOR THE NEIGHBORS, AND THEN THAT JUST TURNS OUT HORRIBLY, SO THEN WE BUY COOKIES, AND THEN WE DON’T EVER HAND THEM OUT AND WE FIND THEM IN OUR PANTRY IN FEBRUARY OR MARCH. THAT’S MY FAVORITE CHRISTMAS TRADITION. THREE YEARS RUNNING.”
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
3
“Vanilla latte with oat milk.” VILLAGE COFFEE // 190 E Stacy Rd., Allen; 972/678-1466
FO R H O LI DAY MOV I E N I G HT
6
g “Probably Christmas Vacation or The Holiday. Can I have two?”NATION
LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION AND
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FOFOR R TH EFA CH R I S TM A S S PR E A D MILY TIME
5
“I love broccoli, cheese and rice casserole. It’s a side dish that we’ve always had, and I love it.” BROCCOLI RICE CASSEROLE RECIPE // For recipe favorites, follow @lifeasaramblingredhead on Pinterest
PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMAZON; CARTER ROSE; ©ISTOCK;
1
FO R CE LE B R ATI N G WITH TH E KI DS
a monday in the life of
SONAY BAKER
Dallas mom Sonay Baker is a pilot training scheduler for Southwest Airlines as well as a professional face and body painter (Fun Time Faces TX) and photographer (Sonay Nicole Photography). Her husband, Colt, also works for Southwest, and together they have an 18-month-old daughter—Maddox— three dogs and a bunny. The family loves traveling as much as possible, going to Rangers games and catching live music around DFW.
6
:30AM At Southwest, I have a rotating schedule, so today is a day off. Hubby has been at work since 5am, and all three dogs are starting to move around wanting to go outside. My daughter, however, has been the best sleeper. She went to bed at 9:30pm, and she is still out. It’s so nice. 7:15AM Animals are fed, and I’m at my laptop looking through emails. I have my planner open because I still prefer to handwrite everything. With old episodes of Law & Order: SVU on Hulu, I am powering through flagging emails. 7:45AM I have switched over to photo editing. I currently have seven sessions in my queue I am working on. Maddox is up again. Now she is jabbering to herself, playing with the Build-A-Bear we got for her birthday. She does this for about five minutes before calling out to me. 7:55AM Baby girl is calm in the morning while waking up, then she gets her energy. She is now trying to jump (she can’t get off the ground yet) and throwing her toys over the baby gate to the dogs. I can’t be too upset at her wanting to share! 8:30AM The weather is nice, so we have moved from the house to the backyard. Mad-
dox is putting rocks in her playhouse and pointing to the bubbles on the table. I highly recommend that every parent have bubbles everywhere. It’s a fun and quick way to entertain kiddos in almost any situation. 9:30AM Took a little longer to get ready and get out the door. Quick trip to Target and a few more spots. Maddox is at that age where she wants anything within reach. In and out of the car, in and out of the cart, loading bags— feels like it’s been four hours. 11:15AM Just pulling up to my mom’s house, and my daughter knows exactly where we are. She’s excited! We are so incredibly lucky that my mom is Maddox’s babysitter when my husband and I work. Maddox and I blow kisses until I’m out the door, then we wave through the window. 12PM I have a wedding I am shooting this weekend, and although I do have 90% of the gear that I use, I always rent from a place in Addison. It’s a gorgeous day, so windows are down and music is up! 12:45PM … have I eaten today? Coffee? Water? Anything? Nope … typical. Trying to think of something I haven’t had in a while. Panera. Now I am way too excited. Panini and mac and cheese it is! You can’t go to Panera without having the mac and cheese. 1:15PM This year has flown by, and I’m already looking to 2020 for bookings. A good friend of mine owns Texas Galaxy Cheer and Dance, and every year, I do pictures for her students. It’s a 10-hour day with over 100 kiddos, so a lot goes into it. I’m also getting inquiries for face painting. About 10 years ago, I was teaching art for a nonprofit. They were having an event and asked if I could face paint. I said, “Sure! How hard could it be?” Wow, I was wrong— and awful! It was embarrassing, so I did more research. I looked into the right supplies, went to workshops, became insured and joined the DFW Face Painters Guild, and what started out as a fun hobby turned into a successful business. 2:30PM Contracts sent. Invoices sent. Galleries launched. Social media updated. I have been productive! Hubby is now off work and heading to pick up Maddox from my mom. 3:30PM Colt and the baby beat me home by a few minutes. Dogs are outside, and we get some family time before I have to go again. Working for an airline is amazing since Colt and I love to travel. 4:30PM I’m out the door again—this time it’s for a little maternity shoot at White Rock Lake. A friend of mine (since fourth grade) and her husband are expecting their first child next month, and they’ve asked
Diaries are penned by moms (and dads) in the Dallas/Collin areas. The authors volunteer to share a day of their choosing and are not paid or endorsed by DFWChild. Send your diary to editorial@dfwchild.com. All submissions are subject to editing and may be cut for space. 18
december 2019 / dfwchild.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF SONAY BAKER
real moms / R O U T I N E S
the fine
RANDOM FACT ABOUT HER I used to be a certified shark wrangler. QUOTE SHE LIVES BY You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. FAVORITE SCENT Guava PET PEEVE People who text and drive DREAM JOB AS A KID Training dolphins, and I am proud to say that I had the chance to live in Hawaii a few years ago working with both dolphins and sea lions. BEST PURCHASE EVER My purple Jeep! I love driving it! WHAT’S IN HER NETFLIX QUEUE Law & Order: SVU, Superstore, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, House Hunters, Archer FAVORITE DATE NIGHT SPOT White Rock Alehouse or Gas Monkey Bar PROUD MOMENT On a whim, I hopped on a plane to Paris alone for 48 hours last month. It was amazing going solo. Having wine and pastries, visiting Versailles, seeing the Eiffel Tower—all incredible! PLACES SHE HAS LIVED Texas, California, Italy, Virgin Islands and Hawaii FAVORITE MEAL Filet with Bryan sauce from Carrabba’s FAVORITE DRINK Arnold Palmer from Raising Cane’s FAVORITE DESSERT Chocolate souffle from Roy’s
ADMISSIONS PREVIEW
December 12, 2019, 8:00 a.m.
OPEN HOUSE
January 14, 2020, 5:30 p.m. Register online at www.stphilips1600.org/admissions or call 214-421-5221, ext. 156 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue | Dallas, Texas 75215 PK2-6th grade, robust academics, project based learning, STEM, robotics, Spanish, and fine arts. Full day PK2-PK4.
Transforming the world by FAITH, EDUCATION, AND SERVICE www.stphilips1600.org
#YourDestinyIsHere #YouBelong
BEST WAY TO RELIEVE STRESS Kickboxing class
ILLUSTRATIONS BY ARIANA LEYVA
at Jupiter Kickboxing! I’m not any good, but it’s a great workout. HER FIRST JOB Sali’s (now closed). I worked there on and off for 10 years.
me to document this special time for them. I love working with different families all over DFW, but it really means a lot when friends and family ask me to photograph them. 7PM I’m heading home when I get a text reminding me we are out of milk. Does anyone else feel like they are always out of milk? I am not sure how it always happens, but it does. I get home and Maddox is in her swing. Colt is pulling chicken off the grill and also has homemade mashed potatoes and roasted cauliflower. I am so thankful. 8:30PM Teeth brushed, PJs on, and we are trying to put Maddox to sleep in her bed. She is doing really well, but tonight I have to sit in there with her for about 20 minutes before she falls asleep. 9:45PM Feels like the longest day ever. Dishwasher is loaded and clothes are in the dryer. I do a quick scroll though social media before I pass out. dfwchild.com / december 2019
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
PART NO. 2
BURN OUT Beating burnout takes commitment, and maybe some painful decisions. But reclaiming your sanity is worth it—for you and your kids. WORDS JESSICA ELLIOTT
AT THIS VERY MOMENT, I HAVE EXACTLY 23 PRECIOUS SPARE MINUTES—a rarity with three children under 2. But by the time I’ve determined what to do with my unexpected time (Write my overdue story? Eat something? Respond to long-unanswered texts? Research the best sippy cup? Plan a date night? Shower?), the moment has passed. And I’m still as frazzled as my postpartum hair. That’s the eternal struggle of motherhood, isn’t it? Trying to manage it all, with dwindling time. Compared to mothers of the past, we’re working more and we’re investing more into hands-on parenting. We’re expected to be unceasingly “on,” and to gracefully deal with chronic stress. So we go and go and go until we collapse into a tired heap. We covered the causes and symptoms of mommy burnout in part one of this story, published in the November issue of DallasChild. (You can find it at dfwchild.com.) The main takeaway: Unrealistic expectations, whether self-imposed or societal, along with a host of other problems including lack of face-to-face connections, absence of familial support and hyper-involved parenting, are leading to mommy burnout. The syndrome is recognized by experts as a real and pervasive problem. At risk: reaching a state of utter exhaustion that can lead to emotional detachment from our children and a feeling of incompetence as a parent. The good news is that mommy burnout is preventable—and curable. The bad news? The solution requires ongoing dedication and commitment when reserves are empty, and, ironically, the one thing we all need more of: time. But your family life—and your health—may depend on it. →
dfwchild.com / december 2019
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GET YOURSELF BACK
WHEN MAMA AIN’T HAPPY
I’ve never been known to have an excess of patience. But at my most burned out, practically everything made me snap, whether mildly or wildly: my 22-month-old son throwing a spoonful of yogurt across the kitchen, my 3-monthold twin daughters refusing to eat on schedule, my husband simply coughing and waking the babies—really. My blood pressure was a constant roller coaster. Problems can escalate when a mom remains in a burnout state, says Denver-based author and psychologist Sheryl Ziegler. As she explains in her book Mommy Burnout, headaches can become migraines, irritability can shift to rage, verbal aggression can intensify to physical aggression, sleeplessness can transform into insomnia, worry can lead to constant anxiety, and forgetfulness can become memory impairment. These issues—and a desire to unwind and de-stress—can even lead to substance abuse, Ziegler says. Mothers who have high burnout also tend to snap more, like I did. “If you’re exhausted, haven’t eaten yet, and your kid has a tantrum, in that scenario you won’t respond the best,” says Katie Sardone, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist and owner of Behavioral Health Dallas. “If you had a nice morning, got to exercise and got breakfast, it gives you a mental recharge to handle those emotions. But if your emotions aren’t restored and you can’t handle yours, how can you handle a child’s?” Focusing on yourself can help you shore up reserves of patience and control your temper. Stefanie Prentiss, a Highland Park mom and owner of luxury travel concierge Posh Voyage, regularly has to keep her emotions in check. “When I don’t give myself the oxygen mask first, I’m running on empty, and my husband gets home and I’m a witch,” she says. Ensuring your own well-being is “a gift you are giving to yourself and to everyone in your family.” Because when Mom is struggling, the entire family unit suffers. “Mommy burnout affects our entire lives, our work, our relationships, 22
december 2019 / dfwchild.com
When the thought of changing just one more diaper, driving to one more soccer game or negotiating one more bedtime stall tactic is enough to melt you into a puddle of irritation, the solution is to step away and re-center.
Your Stress Style
Determining your stress style and how you should respond can also help prevent a barrage of acute or smaller stressors (such as dealing with a toddler tantrum while running late) from morphing into chronic stress. In her book Mommy Burnout, psychologist Sheryl Ziegler identifies three stress styles: fighting, fleeing and freezing. • The fighter responds with anger, irritability and agitation, and might find solace in activities that calm the nervous system—yoga, deep breathing, soothing imagery or confiding in a friend. • The moms who flees reacts to stress with isolation and depression, tuning out the environment and mentally escaping via TV or phone, or sometimes by taking a drive, Ziegler writes. A massage, walking or jogging outside, or journaling can wake the nervous system and help eliminate stress. • The mom who tends to freeze, or feel paralyzed in a crisis, could benefit from activities that engage the nervous system, such as running, dancing, swimming and mindfulness, Ziegler explains.
“A lot of women think there’s no way out,” says psychologist Paula Miltenberger, Ph.D., of Dallas-based Women’s Mental Wellness. “But sometimes they just need permission.” This can mean arranging time off work for respite and taking a long, hard look at your daily routines. “You have to think, ‘Am I set up for success in my schedule, my life, my home, my reinforcements?’” says Sardone. “Stabilize and manage issues first. Prioritize more sleep by
utilizing your husband, a mother-in-law, a night nanny—it’s really about thinking flexibly. Then you can figure out how to get more child-free time to recuperate.” When it comes to scheduling, determining your core values and prioritizing them is key, Miltenberger says. “We have to remember there’s certain things we can control and different choices we can make to alleviate stress,” she says. “If your value is family, it can’t always be about family togetherness, but if you are overscheduled and at six different sporting events on the weekend, there is a disconnect between what you value and how your life is living out.” We may be spending more time in cars and at activities but missing out on true togetherness. Quality one-on-one time beats just about any activity, says Beth Ann Contreras, a licensed therapist and counselor and the Bedford site director for Logos Counseling. “If you ask a kid what kind of ‘care’ they want, it’s playing a game together,” she says. “You need quality with the quantity.” A solution might be to go against societal norms and limit extracurricular activities to one per child. As parents, we are the ones who control our children’s schedules, enroll them in classes, drive them to sports, take them to parties—and we have the power to cut back. That means saying no to social invitations and school commitments unless they are guaranteed to bring joy to your family. In other words, Marie Kondo your schedule. We also can limit or ignore pressure to undertake sensory activities, flash cards and educational crafts. Simply going on a walk or preparing lunch together is enough—or allowing the kids to entertain themselves. And, if we need more time to ourselves in the evening, whether for a break or to rest, an early bedtime never hurt anyone. Sleep or personal time should prevail, every time. Easier said than done, right? The pressure to stay busy can create anxiety over simply being still, and paring down schedules can be stressful by comparison—are we doing as much as other parents to prepare our kids for college and for life? Are our children missing out? “You have to be willing to not chase after all of the things on social media or the things the friends in your mommy group are doing,” Sardone says. “It’s learning strategies to tune out some of that. You have to focus on your own values.” (See our social media detox tips on the next page for ways to limit unhealthy influences.) “Comparison is the killer,” Miltenberger agrees. “Nobody’s circumstance is just like ours.”
PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE
Self-care is not selfish. It is crucial to maintaining your patience, your mood, your approach to every day—it is a human need, Sardone says. She touts the benefits of behavioral activation, or regularly getting dressed and out of the house, spending time with friends and walking the dog.
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our marriage, our children,” Ziegler says. “That should give us pause.” She reveals that when a mother is burned out, her kids are more likely to experience anxiety, trouble sleeping and even physical pain such as bellyaches and headaches. Mommy burnout can also damage a child’s feeling of attachment to their mom, which affects how they relate to others now and in adulthood, explains Sardone. “It’s important to prioritize yourself so you can prioritize that relationship with your child,” she says. “Instead of cutting star-shaped sandwiches, what’s more important is to get good sleep so you can give them good attention.”
When Elysa Ellis brought home her son, the Addison mom started penciling in stroller walks around her neighborhood. To eliminate excuses, she kept her jogging stroller “packed with backup diapers and teethers, so we could leave in five minutes.” The short walks were “good for both of us,” she says. Short breaks are always good for burnout prevention, but longer time away can be more restorative. The overwritten-about “momcation” isn’t always the answer for burnout, but it can help. Prentiss, the travel concierge owner, knows her telltale sign of entering the red zone is minimal patience. (My own red flags are a perennially raised voice, entering a dazed state when it’s playtime and simply feeling too tired to do anything.) When Prentiss starts snapping, she takes a solo vacation—in fact, she recently trekked to the Arctic alone while six months pregnant.“I didn’t realize how much I needed it until I was there in the middle of nowhere looking at polar bears,” she says. Time alone “starts to give you separation, and you start to look at different things the right way.” Kelly Krug, a physician assistant at Olympus Family Medicine in Frisco, splits her weekdays between working and staying at home, and like most moms, regularly struggles with maintaining balance. “I know I’m reaching burnout when I lose my patience over stupid stuff, or when I’m dreading going to work, or when I’m not enjoying things I should be enjoying,” she says. That’s when she makes time for herself to read, take a bath or try a new recipe. “What got me mostly out of mommy burnout was re-recognizing I’m not just a mom, a physician assistant, a wife,” she says. “I lost 'Kelly' somewhere along the way. It’s about identifying what you need, identifying what looks best for you, and then finding small ways to fit that in—even if it’s 10 minutes of decompression on the way home by rolling down the windows and playing music.” Once you carve out space to re-center, commit to a genuine reprieve. “Focus on your genuine emotional well-being and not just distracting your mind,” Sardone says. “It’s a lifestyle of taking care of yourself. It’s a mental shift.” Essential to this mental shift: a goal to stop multitasking.“We are constantly running to-do lists in our minds,” writes Ziegler. “We are perpetually distracted by technology. We multitask without even realizing it. We research the best highchair or bicycle until well after midnight when we should be getting much-needed rest.” In other words, we should forgo those extensive efforts to find the cutest matching holiday pajamas or the best intelligence-building children’s toys. We go on “best quests” looking for the perfect everything, from schools to swim lessons, and then are unsatisfied because we know there is always a better option, Ziegler explains. When blocking time to make decisions, prioritize what is necessary and monotask. Ziegler suggests limiting your choices by choosing from among just two or three options and “shifting
your mindset from ‘the best’ to what works for your family.”
INVEST IN RELATIONSHIPS
One of the best things you can do with a spare 23 minutes? Call a friend. “If there is one takeaway from the book, it would be to spend time with other people,” Ziegler says. “That’s what the research is clear on. Our loneliness is driving an incredible level of stress in women, and in that sense, men too. Connect, connect, connect.” Contreras couldn’t agree more. She believes modern-day mothers are far more isolated than moms of the past, especially those who aren’t plugged in to mommy-and-me groups and classes. So lunch dates, early morning coffee chats or even a quick voice text can keep you sane. Ellis got to know a neighbor with a child close to the same age as her own son. The moms became good friends during regular walks. “Having a face-to-face chat with a person in the same life stage helped with burnout,” she reveals. Now, she regularly calls upon a moms group she met through church. “It was interesting meeting strangers whose babies were born within months of each other—and we can talk about everything,” she says. My own common solution for connection: the Marco Polo app. In-person connection may be ideal according to the experts, but I also have to be realistic. Even if I can’t make time to meet a friend, sending a personal message (and seeing a friend as unkempt as myself) is enough for a mental boost and adult connection.
DROP THE MOM GUILT
Commiserating with friends can also help us manage our own expectations. “We are setting ourselves up for this goal that we should be able to do it all, and the word ‘should’ is not healthy,” Krug says. To find better balance, moms have to rise to the challenge of surrendering control and delegating tasks to partners, other family members or friends. At my deepest postpartum low, my husband took time off of work to help me catch up on housework and get out of the house. We divide and conquer nighttime duties—or he handles wake-ups—to ensure I’m rested and have more patience for balancing working from home with toddler tantrums. The key is to be willing to allow someone else to step in, whether or not their process mirrors yours. Not everything will be done as we expect— but that’s the tradeoff. “If we’re going to be in the workforce, we’re definitely going to have to have lower standards for how the towels are folded,” Contreras says. And, Krug adds, we need to give ourselves grace. “It’s a daily practice of self-compassion,” she explains. “Say, ‘It’s OK that I’m not going to get all of this done’ instead of saying, ‘I can’t believe I didn’t get this done.’” It’s all about perspective. “We have to accept
Social Media Detox Minimize the risks of social-media-driven depression and anxiety with a few proactive measures:
• Set “on” hours. Wait to scroll Instagram until your morning routine is complete, and set a curfew at night. It can be as simple as not scrolling 15 minutes before bedtime. • Earmark vacation days. Set your phone aside for a full day or—gasp!—a weekend. That means leaving it at home while you’re out and about. • Be cognizant of whom you choose to follow. Does the unbounded traveler gallivanting across remote beaches get you down? Does the mom with her children in perfectly coordinated, stain-free clothes always doing something creative make you feel like a hermit? Ditch them. You’ll feel better for it. • Don’t put weight on your followers, numbers, likes, etc. You know your self-worth and value are not determined by someone else’s click. • Set your phone aside when spending time with loved ones. The most important goal is to connect—therefore, give your full attention.
the reality that everyone has limits,” Sardone says. “Focus on what you are proud of in your parenting instead of focusing on all the things you can’t do.” Miltenberger tells women frequently that they should only ask of themselves what their resources allow, and turns to the phrase “good enough mother,” coined by British pediatrician and psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott in 1953. Through observation and research, Winnicott found that children whose parents “failed” them in different ways actually benefited developmentally from the failures. “You don’t have to do everything to be a good mom,” Miltenberger reiterates. “Really, you just have to be a good enough mom.”
20 T H E M AG A Z I N E PA R E N T S L I V E BY I N DA L L A S CO U N T Y
N O V E M B E R 2 0 19
EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH
HOW TO THROW A HIGH TEA PARTY
IS BLUE LIGHT REALLY HARMFUL? MEET MOTHER BEVERAGE’S ALLISON ELLSWORTH
+
HOW BURNOUT AFFECTS YOUR CHILD
A FAMILY GUIDE TO GREENVILLE SOUTH CAROLINA
MOMMY BURNOUT IT’S REAL. LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.
Visit dfwchild.com to read part one of this story. dfwchild.com / december 2019
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SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION
DENTISTS WORDS DFWCHILD EDITORS
ILLUSTRATIONS ARIANA LEYVA
BRACE YOURSELF: We brushed up our knowledge of teeth and how to take care of them with these facts and tips from experts on children’s oral health.
RAISINS
ORANGES
CARROTS
HOW MUCH TOOTHPASTE TO USE:
AGES 0–3:
MILK
FISH
SIZE OF A PEA
TOOTH ENAMEL IS THE HARDEST SUBSTANCE
WATER
KIDS SHOULD BRUSH THEIR TEETH TWICE A DAY FOR
2–3 MINS. CHILDREN SHOULD BEGIN FLOSSING AS SOON AS THEY HAVE
SIZE OF A RICE GRAIN
AGE 3+:
CRANBERRIES
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
IN DALLAS: • • • •
Silver: 1 surface: $68 2 surfaces: $77 3 surfaces: $91 4 or more: $97
Composite Resin: • 1 surface: $83–$84 • 2 surfaces: $116–$132 • 3 or more: $142–$195
TWO TEETH THAT TOUCH
AMERICANS BUY MORE THAN
14 GALLONS OF TOOTHPASTE EVERY YEAR
IN FORT WORTH: KIDS ARE USUALLY ABLE TO FLOSS ON THEIR OWN BY AGE 6 OR 7
WHEN TO SCHEDULE A BABY’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT:
AFTER THEIR FIRST TOOTH APPEARS BUT NO LATER IN THE HUMAN BODY
AVERAGE PRICE OF BABY TOOTH FILLINGS:
THAN THEIR FIRST BIRTHDAY
• • • •
Silver: 1 surface: $63 2 surfaces: $72 3 surfaces: $85 4 or more: $90
Composite Resin: • 1 surface: $77–$78 • 2 surfaces: $108–$123 • 3 or more: $132–$182
SOURCES: BABY TOOTH CENTER; BRACES INFO; SCIENCE FOCUS; AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION; GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
BEST FOODS A CHILD CAN EAT FOR GOOD ORAL HYGIENE:
mom approved
SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION
F
inding the right person to take care of that toothy grin you love can be a hefty undertaking. The Dallas-Fort Worth area is (thankfully) home to many top-notch dentists and orthodontists who look after tiny teeth. So how do you begin the search? The staff at DFWChild has made it easier for you by compiling our annual list of pediatric dentists, orthodontists and other oral health care professionals. We asked our experts—local parents—to reach out to us and share their excellent experiences.
FAMILY DENTISTRY ALLEN Toney, David DDS David Toney, DDS
DALLAS DeSutter, Brent DDS East Lake Dental Fatourehchian, Ara DDS Mighty Smiles
WHAT IS A MOM APPROVED DENTIST?
HOW DO I RECOMMEND A PROVIDER?
A Mom Approved Dentist is a dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon who has earned the trust, admiration and respect of parents. Local parents reached out to our magazine, recommended these providers and told us why. Whether it’s for their kid-friendly office or professional acumen, these providers have impressed moms and dads like you who love their kids and care about their oral health. All of these providers were in good standing with the Texas Board of Dental Examiners at press time.
DFWChild holds four surveys a year for readers to nominate their favorite health care providers. Visit our website at dfwchild.com/doctors to complete the current Mom Approved Doctors survey. We ask that you leave comments telling us why you love this particular provider. Is it his child-friendly demeanor? Her listening and communication skills? Other parents want to know why you think this professional is special. Comments we publish will be edited for grammar and clarity.
WHAT MAKES MOM APPROVED DENTISTS DIFFERENT?
WHERE CAN I VIEW COMMENTS ABOUT THESE MOM APPROVED DENTISTS?
Each year various publications come out with lists highlighting area health care professionals. Often these providers are chosen not by patients but by other providers. We think Mom Approved Dentists are special because they’ve been nominated by the consumers: local moms and dads. These providers didn’t make it on our list by purchasing space in the magazine, and their inclusion doesn’t imply an endorsement by DFWChild. This is truly a parent-to-parent referral list. It has been a labor of love for us. IS THE LIST EXHAUSTIVE?
The list is by no means exhaustive—there are likely many outstanding professionals who aren’t on the list because our readers didn’t pass on a recommendation. If you have a local dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon you love, tell us.
Check our website for the full Mom Approved Dentists list and the comments from parents who nominated them, Everything can be found at dfwchild.com/ doctors. WHAT OTHER PROVIDERS ARE MOM APPROVED?
In addition to Mom Approved Dentists, our readers have nominated health care professionals in several areas through other surveys. Categories include pediatrics (primary care doctors and those in more than a dozen specialty fields, including dermatology, gastroenterology and allergy); wellness professionals offering everything from art therapy and acupuncture to psychology and speech therapy; and women’s heath care providers (OB/GYNS, doulas, fertility specialists and more). They’re all listed online at dfwchild.com/doctors.
Marsaw, Belinda DDS Dental DeLite
MESQUITE Lam, Christopher DMD Texas Dentistry for Kids (also Kaufman & Terrell) See ad on page 28. Tran, Thanh DMD Texas Dentistry for Kids (also Kaufman & Terrell) See ad on page 28. MURPHY Glazer, Brittaney DDS Glazer Family Dentistry See ad on page 32.
Ngo, Stanley DDS SK2 Dental
PLANO Haight, Fred DDS Haight Family Dentistry
Nguyen, Jeff DDS Henderson Family Dental
Hoang, Dominic DDS Dr. Smile Dentistry
Shirey, Hollie DDS Infinity Dental Care
Jung, David DDS, MS, PhD Jung Dental Implant Center of Plano
FARMERS BRANCH Hong, Marry DDS Family Tree Dental Care FARMERSVILLE Bates, Carole DDS Farmersville Dental FRISCO Lee, Clyde DDS Lee Dental Lee, Julie DDS Lee Dental Maxwell, Joshua F. DDS, FAGD, FICOI, PC Renew Family Dentistry Sokransky, Vlad DDS VS Dental Group GARLAND Kuipers, Jonathan DDS North Garland Dental & Orthodontics Musso, Mark DDS Musso Family Dentistry Musso, Mike DDS Musso Family Dentistry Newhouse, Charla DDS Musso Family Dentistry MCKINNEY Nguyen, William DMD Arte Dental
Kososki, Joseph DDS Kososki Dental ROYSE CITY Davong, Andy DDS Fate Family Dental WYLIE Gebrehiwot, Fesaha DDS Trusted Dental
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
ALLEN Coe, Karen DDS Allen Pediatric Dentistry Hunter, Jessie DDS Allen Pediatric Dentistry See ad on page 32. John, Liny DDS The Children’s Dentist of Allen Kamali, Elizabeth DDS Jupiter Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics Taiym, Sal DDS Jupiter Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics DALLAS Braidfoot, R. Blake DMD R. Blake Braidfoot, DMD dfwchild.com / december 2019
25
mom approved
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
(also Kaufman & Terrell) See ad on page 28.
Pollan, Sarah DDS, MS Park Hollow Orthodontics
PROSPER Roberts, John DDS, MS Roberts Dental Ranch
Ragan, Michael DDS Ragan Orthodontics See ad on page 29.
RICHARDSON Hutcheson, Candice DDS Children’s Dental Specialists
FRISCO Gandy, Allen DDS, MS Gandy Orthodontics
Shir, Solmaz DDS, CAGS Sheer Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Simpson, Harold DDS Children’s Dental Specialists
Dad, Neema DDS White Rock Pediatric Dental
GARLAND Preece, Adam DDS The Dental Specialist
Greenberg, Greg DDS RxSmile See ad on page 33.
Train, Terri DDS Children’s Dental Specialists
Garza, Ronald DDS, MS White Rock Pediatric Dental
Talaiver, Julie DDS Firewheel Dentistry for Kids
ROCKWALL Chou, Jennifer DDS The Smiley Tooth Pediatric Dental Specialists
Pediatric Dentistry
See ad on page 33.
Bushey, Nicholas DMD Lakewood Pediatric Dentistry See ad on page 30.
Rubin, Paul DDS Frisco Kid’s Dentistry See ad on page 27.
Colter, J. Diane DDS All About Kids Dentistry See ad on page 29.
Sentelle, David DMD, PhD, MPH Frisco Kid’s Dentistry See ad on page 27.
Curtis, Ben DDS Children’s Dentistry of North Dallas See ad on page 32.
Harrington, Erik DDS, PhD Preston Hollow Specialists Texas Dentistry for Kids
GRAND PRAIRIE Chen, Yi-Ju DDS The Kid’s Dentist
Morgan, Benjamin DDS, MS Rockwall Pediatric Dentistry
Marr, Karina DDS Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda See ad on page 31.
LITTLE ELM Masoud, Ziad DDS, MDS Lucky Teeth Pediatric Dentistry
ROWLETT Pollock, Tera DDS Rowlett Dental Associates
Munawar, Moniza DDS Oak Cliff Dental Center
MCKINNEY Crabtree, Kristen DDS Texas Pediatric Dentistry
SUNNYVALE Preece, Anya DDS, PSM Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry See ad on page 33.
Ombrello, Jill DDS Central Dentist Petrocchi, Sandra DDS Dr. Sandra Petrocchi & Dr. Luis Arango Plunk, Michael DDS, MSD Plunk Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Shanadi, Arvind DMD Smile Safari Pediatric Dentistry Villaseñor, Alejandra (Alex) DDS, MS, PA myKIDSdds See ad on page 32. FRISCO Catmull, Jeremy DMD My Kid’s Dentist Davis, Mila DDS Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry See ad on page 31. Lalani, Zarmin DDS, MS Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry 26
Gehani, Dan DDS Showtime Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry PLANO Holt, Jeffrey DDS, MS Kids Dental (also Carrollton) See ad on page 30. Jaynes, Jeffrey DDS, PA Jeffrey C. Jaynes, DDS, PA Judd, Catherine DDS Catherine Judd, DDS Kwon, Kee-Won DDS Lucky Kids Dental
Reddy, Anil DDS, MPH, MSND, RCSEd Children’s Dental Care Shields, Joel B. DDS, PC Joel B. Shields, DDS, PC, Dentistry for Children & Teens TERRELL Lindley, Anne DDS Texas Dentistry for Kids Preston Hollow Specialists See ad on page 28.
Iacob, Elena DDS, MS 121 Orthodontics MURPHY Fesler, Michael DDS, MS Fesler Orthodontics PLANO Elvebak, Bryan DDS Elvebak Orthodontics Jensen, James Dean DDS, MS, PA James Dean Jensen, DDS, MS, PA Jones, Tamara L. DDS, MSD Willow Bend Orthodontics THE COLONY Baharvand, Kaveh DMD, MS Elate Orthodontics
ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
DALLAS Schlieve, Thomas DDS, MD Thomas Schlieve, DDS, MD See ad on page 31.
WYLIE Pearson, Allen DDS Wylie Children’s Dentistry
McDougal, Sandra DDS Plano Pediatric Dentistry Ryan, Patrick DDS Grin Pediatric Dentistry Smith, Nathifa DDS Teeth R Us MESQUITE Lee, Yosuk DMD Texas Dentistry for Kids
december 2019 / dfwchild.com
ORTHODONTICS ALLEN Kraus, Collin DDS Kraus Orthodontics
DALLAS Arango, Luis DDS Dr. Sandra Petrocchi & Dr. Luis Arango
Check out our Mom Approved directory at dfwchild.com/ doctors. Each health care professional is nominated by local moms, just like you.
mom approved
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Paul Rubin, DDS & David Sentelle, DMD, PhD, MPH Pediatric Dentistry 7x Mom Approved Howdy Partner! At Frisco Kid’s Dentistry, our board-certified pediatric dentists, Drs. Paul Rubin and David Sentelle, and their team of deputies, are committed to providing the highest quality patient care and customer service in a fun, educational and family-oriented environment. Our western themed office is designed to make your child’s dental visit feel unique and fun. Our team is motivated and inspired to touch the lives of all who enter our doors. We have a play area for younger kids, video game area for teens, coffee bar for parents, and TVs above all our patient chairs. Drs. Rubin and Sentelle are two of the few pediatric dental surgeons in the Frisco/DFW area certified with the Academy of Laser Dentistry for Tongue Tie and Lip Tie surgical procedures. They also offer dental sedation services to make young patients feel comfortable and safe. Treatments include oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, and hospital sedation with privileges at Children’s Health. Dr. Rubin completed his Board Certification in Pediatric Dentistry and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, also serving as past president of the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He has extensive experience in hospital dentistry (restorative and cosmetic work under general anesthesia) and spent many hours of procedural work in hospitals and clinics with special needs children including work at both Children’s Medical Center and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital. He is a proud husband and parent to 5 children! We guarantee his toothbrushing skills are put to the test every day! Dr. Sentelle completed his Master’s in Public Health (MPH) with Pediatric Dental Specialty Training from Texas A&M Baylor College of Dental Medicine, Children’s Medical Center and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas. His dental school training was completed at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He earned his PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology paired with Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). He is Board Certified and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Member, TAPD Member, TDA Active Council Member, and ADA Member. He has advanced training from the Interdisciplinary Stanford Dental Sleep Medicine Symposium focusing on early diagnosis and intervention of Pediatric Airway and Sleep Disordered Breathing. He has been married for 12 years and proud parent to 4 children! In his spare time, he’s involved in his church and loves being outdoors. Every child is unique and requires tailored care—there is no “cookie cutter” method for providing great dental care! Our goal is to build positive, life-long relationships with our patients, their caregivers and other medical professionals, to optimize each patient’s individual development and oral health needs. We look forward to welcoming you to our Frisco Kid’s Dentistry family.
Frisco Kid’s Dentistry 6801 Warren Pkwy, Ste 115, Frisco, TX 75034 Across from The Star in Frisco 214-618-5200 friscokidsdds.com
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Anne Lindley, DDS; Yosuk Lee, DMD; Thanh Tran, DMD & Christopher Lam, DMD Pediatric Dentistry 3x Mom Approved How often do you get the chance to make a difference in someone’s life? For us, it happens every day…several times a day. Working with children and their parents has given us the opportunity of a lifetime, and we are eternally grateful for it. One might imagine, given the multitude of patients we see, that complacency or a sense of routine sets in. Nope. Every encounter is a new conversation. Every encounter is a chance to understand better what is important in this healthcare relationship. We believe the Mouth is a Window to the Body. We believe every conversation is a window into what works best, for the individual and within their PHOTO: CHASIDY NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY unique family dynamic. Heraclitus once said that “no person ever enters the same river twice, for it is not the same river, and it is not the same person.” This holds true for our experience. Children grow into young adults, parents show up differently given the joys and challenges of parenthood. We meet our pediatric patients, parents and families right where they are… in front of us. And to meet this challenge we think we have the best doctors. For example…Dr. Tran and Lam trained at Tufts. Tufts was recently ranked 3rd in the nation out of all 66 dental schools. This was based on evaluating 60 criteria from data sets released by the U.S. Department of Education in 2017 and 2018. Speaking of family, Dr. Lam and Tran also happen to be married to each other with two lovely children…hence they know just how challenging parenthood can be. Drs. Lindley and Lee trained through Fellowships at Baylor, Childrens Health and Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, arguably one of the best pediatric dental residency programs in the nation. Both doctors maintain privileges at Children’s Health. Additionally, Dr. Lindley was awarded the Richard C. Pugh Award, given to doctors who score in the top 3% of the nation on their board certification exam. Way to go Dr. Lindley! Dr. Lee lives in Dallas with his wife and two boys. In addition to being a great pediatric dentist, Dr. Lee served his country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army for 12 years. We appreciate your sacrifice and courage Dr. Lee. Patients are referred from across the state and from fellow pediatric dentists to tackle some of the most challenging cases. Yet, the biggest impact often comes from the simple cleaning appointment where the child finally feels the trust, and then the feeling of relief from the parent that they have found the place. All relationships are based on trust. Trust is found within the quality of the conversation. Drs. Lindley, Lee, Tran and Lam look forward to that conversation with you.
TexasDentistry.com
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TexasDentistryForKids.com
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J. Diane Colter, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 8x Mom Approved Dr. Diane Colter’s passion to be the most caring and compassionate pediatric dentist led her to open All About Kids Dentistry, which specializes in treating infants, children, teens and kids with special needs. She loves working with children and has a very caring and compassionate personality. It is of utmost importance to provide outstanding care along with an inviting atmosphere where both the parent and child will have a positive experience. Dr. Colter grew up in Athens, Texas. She completed her degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, where she graduated in the top of her class. She completed a Residency in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of California Medical Center in Los Angeles, serving as chief resident. Dr. Colter is a board-certified pediatric dentist recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She also holds a staff appointment at Children’s Medical Center. Dr. Colter is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Texas Dental Association and Dallas County Dental Society. Dr. Colter has also been recognized many times by her fellow dental professionals as a top pediatric dentist in the area as published in D Magazine D Best and Texas Monthly’s Super Dentists. Away from the office, Dr. Colter enjoys spending time with her husband, Dr. Shandon Colter, their beautiful children, Sydney and Landon. Dr. Colter also enjoys traveling, and time spent with friends and family.
All About Kids Dentistry 12300 Inwood Rd., Ste. 220, Dallas, TX 75244 972-233-4439 allaboutkidsdentist.com
Michael Ragan, DDS Orthodontics Dr. Michael Ragan and his team believe that successful orthodontics is patient-focused and based on leading-edge treatment in a warm and friendly environment where you are treated like family. Dr. Ragan has been treating adults and children for over 25 years. Utilizing the latest 3D x-ray technology to take digital scans of your mouth, teeth, jaw and airway to establish a treatment plan. He works with a variety of appliances including palatial expanders, thumb appliances, mouth guards and motion appliances. A motion appliance is a tiny specialized appliance that can fix bites and replace bulky bite correcting appliances and even headgear. Dr. Ragan looks forward to helping you select the right orthodontic treatment to fit your lifestyle: invisible braces (Invisalign), fast-action self-ligating braces, clear self-ligating braces, lingual braces, implant braces, laser-enhanced braces, indirect bonding, and more for straight teeth. Dr. Ragan travels and lectures when not in one of his three orthodontic offices in Park Cities, Preston Hollow and Lakewood. “We have seen our treatments change children’s lives, including my own. As a parent I know the immense sense of responsibility to try and make sure we care for all aspects of our kids’ well-being,” says Dr. Ragan. “My staff and I are grateful to be able to help parents create beautiful smiles for their children, while also looking out for their overall health.”
Ragan Orthodontics Park Cities 8100 Lomo Alto, Ste. 204, Dallas, TX 75225 Preston Hollow 12300 Inwood Rd., Ste. 110, Dallas, TX 75244 Lakewood 6316 Gaston Ave., Dallas, TX 75214 214-363-8893 • raganortho.com
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Jeffrey D. Holt, DDS, MS Pediatric Dentistry 8x Mom Approved A board certified specialist in Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry, Jeffrey Holt is the founder of KidsDental, a favorite of both kids and parents alike in the Dallas area. Dr. Holt has strategically changed the way children experience dentistry by providing positive and exciting atmospheres custom designed with children’s needs in mind. Kid-friendly diversions like SuperSlide PlayScapes, video games, trendy music, cool light shows, and inviting colorful dental chairs equipped with movies help keep each visit fun! With an emphasis on early childhood intervention, cosmetic restorative Pediatric Dentistry, and Orthodontics, Dr. Holt and his expert team focus on specialized and preventive dentistry during the growth and development years. A commitment to the highest level of quality care assures a healthy smile for life. Education: DDS, University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry; Post-Doctoral MS, Baylor University; Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry, Baylor College of Dentistry; Specialty Residency Programs, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children Affiliations: American Board of Pediatric Dentistry; American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; American Dental Association; Texas Dental Association; Dallas County Dental Society; Greater Dallas Society of Pediatric Dentists; former Clinical Director and Professor, Baylor College of Dentistry and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Board Certified: Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
KidsDental Plano: North Dallas Tollway @ Parker • 972-378-5437 Carrollton: Hebron @ Josey • 972-394-2140 kidsdentalonline.com
Nicholas Bushey, DMD Pediatric Dentistry
Lakewood Pediatric Dentistry 2011 Abrams Road Dallas, TX 75214 214-446-6130 pediatricdentistlakewood.com
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Your child deserves a smile they cherish for a lifetime, we’re here to make that happen. We are a leading children’s dental practice serving patients throughout Lakewood and the greater Dallas area. We believe that creating a beautiful, healthy smile should be easy, convenient, and downright fun! We are proud to offer comprehensive dental care for kids in a warm and welcoming office environment. Dr. Nicholas Bushey and our experienced dental team are committed to creating a world-class treatment experience for your child. Following his service in the Air Force, Dr. Bushey discovered a passion for pediatric dentistry and went on to complete his pediatric dentistry specialty training at the University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio and Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. After becoming a board-certified diplomate, Dr. Bushey relocated to Dallas, TX to be near his family. He now spends his free time running at White Rock Lake with his dog Copper, playing tennis and traveling. Dr. Bushey looks forward to helping each child that enters our doors. To meet Dr. Bushey in person we encourage you to book an appointment with us today!
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Mila Davis, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 5x Mom Approved
Dr. Mila Davis is a cum laude graduate of Princeton University. She received her D.D.S. from Columbia School of Dental Medicine in New York City, with specialty training at New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University receiving Certification in Pediatric Dentistry. She was an Assistant Professor for Clinical Dentistry at Columbia University. In Dallas, Dr. Davis taught part time at Baylor College of Dentistry. After rigorous clinical and written examination, she was awarded Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Davis has hospital privileges at Children’s Medical Center. She was co-chair of the North Texas Give Kids a Smile Program where dental members volunteer to screen underserved children 5–12 years old for dental decay. Dr. Davis is certified in basic life support and pediatric advanced life support. She is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and Greater Dallas Pediatric Dental Society. Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry 12398 FM 423, Ste. 1900 Frisco, TX 75033 214-436-4774 healthychildrenssmiles.com
Karina Marr, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 6x Mom Approved
Dr. Karina Marr has spent her life serving North Texas. She was in the charter class of the International Baccalaureate magnet program at Plano East Senior High School and graduated summa cum laude from Texas A&M University in 2000. She graduated from Texas A&M College of Dentistry in 2005, earning a place on the Dean’s Cumulative Honor List and the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. Dr. Marr completed her pediatric specialty training at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., in 2010, and is a board-certified pediatric dentist. Dr. Marr is also a clinical professor at Texas A&M College of Dentistry and is an attending at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas. Dr. Marr lives in Dallas with her husband, Peter; 8-year-old daughter, Olivia; and 6-year-old son, Deacon. Come by and meet her at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda!
Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda
9409 Garland Rd. #110, Dallas, TX 75218 214-321-4880 • info@pdckids.com pdckids.com
Thomas Schlieve, DDS, MD, FACS Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Dr. Thomas Schlieve DDS, MD, FACS is a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon practicing at UT Southwestern and Children’s Health. He is the only oral surgeon in DFW with fellowship training in the management of cysts, tumors, and cancers of the mouth and jaws privileged to operate at Children’s Health. He has completed a fellowship in Oral, Head and Neck Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Tennessee Cancer Center and specializes in pediatric oral pathology such as the ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst, or other jaw cysts and tumors. He is an expert in the management of impacted teeth, wisdom teeth, or extra teeth. Dr. Schlieve works with pediatric anesthesiologists for his surgeries and aims to provide the highest level of patient safety and quality care. As part of his role at Children’s Health, he provides oral surgery to special needs patients and children with complex medical problems. UT Southwestern Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Thomas Schlieve, D.D.S, M.D
6333 Forest Park Blvd., Suite 130, Dallas, TX 75235 214-645-3999 utswmed.org/doctors/thomas-schlieve drthomasschlieve.com • facebook.com/drthomasschlieve
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Brittaney L. Glazer, DDS Family Dentistry 2x Mom Approved “One doctor. One office. Your whole family.” is our motto and we mean it! Dr. Brittaney Glazer is the only dentist you’ll see at Glazer Family Dentistry and we believe that makes all the difference. Her team provides specialized, personal care that you cannot always find at a larger dental practice. In 2018 and 2019 we were voted “Best Dentist” by Murphy Monitor readers and “Mom Approved” by DallasChild readers, and a 2019 Nextdoor “Neighborhood Favorite;” Dr. Glazer understands the concerns patients have when choosing a dentist. Glazer Family Dentistry provides the latest in patient comfort in a modern environment: TV’s in each room to watch during your cleaning and all digital technology. Glazer Family Dentistry 119 N. Murphy Rd., Ste. 500, Murphy, TX 75094 214-774-9906 •GlazerFamilyDentistry.com Instagram and Facebook: @GlazerFamilyDentistry
Jessie Hunter, DDS Pediatric Dentistry 6x Mom Approved Allen Pediatric Dentistry has been a “Mom Approved” office since 2012. Dr. Jessie Hunter has been serving families in the Allen and surrounding areas for over 15 years. She is committed to providing a kid-friendly atmosphere that makes her patients feel excited to visit the dentist! Dr. Hunter supports the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the importance of finding a dental home for your child by the age of one to establish a long term relationship and ensure a healthy smile. Allen Pediatric Dentistry’s services include cleanings, preventive care, restorations and sedation dentistry. Dr. Hunter and her team specialize in tending to your child’s unique needs and welcome new patients. Allen Pediatric Dentistry 201 N. Alma Dr., Ste. 100 Allen, TX 75013 972-727-0737 • allenpediatricdentistry.com
Alex Villaseñor, DDS, MS Pediatric Dentistry 6x Mom Approved Dr. Alex Villaseñor, her colleagues and the caring team at myKIDSdds are dedicated to serving you and your family with the very best in pediatric dental care and orthodontics. They feel blessed for the opportunity to be a positive influence on children’s lives through their work at myKIDSdds and in their community. As a four doctor practice that includes both pediatric dentists and orthodontists, the team at myKIDSdds is passionate about collaborative care and building healthy habits which lead to a well-balanced lifestyle. When visiting myKIDdds you can expect an award-winning atmosphere and knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that will treat your family as their own. myKIDSdds 8325 Walnut Hill Ln., Ste. 111 Dallas, TX 75231 972-362-2885 • myKIDSdds.com
Ben Curtis, DDS Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Curtis never expected to take his career path to dentistry. As a child, he had a great fear of the dentist and these early experiences provide him with a unique perspective from which he now helps patients have the best experience they can. Dr. Curtis is an ABPD Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, an AAPD Harris Fellow, and on the Board of Directors of the Southwestern Society of Pediatric Dentistry. Children’s Dentistry of North Dallas
Woodhill Medical Park, 8355 Walnut Hill Ln. Ste 125, Dallas, TX 75231 Preston Hollow Village, 7859 Walnut Hill Ln. Ste 275, Dallas, TX 75230 214-378-8868 • hollykidsdentistry.com
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Greg Greenberg, DDS Orthodontics
2x Mom Approved For 30 plus years, child and adult Orthodontic patients receive personalized treatment plans using state of the art imaging and bracket technology, including Invisalign, in a fun, caring, interactive environment. Dr. Greenberg is also trained in screening for Pediatric Sleep Disordered Breathing. If your child snores, and has behavioral problems, we can help prevent long-term consequences. Call for a complimentary consultation to discuss your child’s orthodontic needs or to learn more about oral sleep devices. RxSmile Frisco Orthodontics 6801 Warren Pkwy., Ste. 121, Frisco, TX 75034 972-335-1300 • rxsmile.com
Zarmin Lalani, DDS, MS Pediatric Dentistry
4x Mom Approved Dr. Zarmin Lalani and staff are passionate about providing highest quality dental care in a fun, friendly and compassionate environment. Creating a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles begins with positive experiences! Dr. Lalani is board certified and a diplomate of the ABPD. She holds her DDS, Masters, and her Pediatric Specialty Residency certificate from Baylor College of Dentistry. She feels blessed to be able to bring beautiful smiles to kids every day! Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry 10710 Eldorado Pkwy. Ste. 140, Frisco, TX 75035 469-365-5437 • discoverykidsdentistry.com
Anya Preece, DDS, PSM Pediatric Dentistry 2x Mom Approved Dr. Anya Preece has dedicated her profession to becoming a nurturing dental provider specializing in infants, children, teens and patients with special needs. Her professional expertise is complimented by her perspective as a mother including two with special healthcare needs. She has built a team who are devoted to working with children. We think of our patients as members of our dental family and want you to feel like our office is your dental home. Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry 2820 N. Belt Line Rd. #200, Sunnyvale, TX 75182 972-674-TINY (8469) • tinyteethtx.com
Mom Approved 2019 When your child is sick or hurt, little else matters. Check out our Mom Approved directory at dfwchild.com/doctors to find dentists and health care professionals to fit your family’s needs. Each Mom Approved professional is nominated by local moms, just like you.
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kid culture.
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CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES introducing your kids to other holiday traditions WORDS MAYA BUTLER
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HILE SANTA CLAUS’ IMPENDING ARRIVAL might be high on kids’ minds this time of year, the season might look a bit different depending on your faith or heritage—even if you celebrate Christmas. “No two celebrations are alike,” says Minister Christian Watkins, of St. Luke Community United Methodist Church in Dallas, which also celebrates Kwanzaa. “While we live in a global society, it’s important to understand that other folks celebrate differently, but it’s not any better or worse.” So how can you and your children celebrate diverse cultural holidays respectfully? We talked to local experts about how you can pay tribute to other traditions while honoring your own. → dfwchild.com / december 2019
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december 2019 / dfwchild.com
FOOD FOR THE SOUL
Every year on Dec. 13, Scandinavians celebrate the Christian holiday St. Lucia’s Day in honor of an early Christian martyr. Traditionally, one girl is picked to represent St. Lucia in a procession, wearing a white robe and a wreath with candles on top. And as with many cultural traditions, food has a prominent place—saffron buns and other sweets are favorites for St. Lucia’s Day revelrs. Food is a way into any kid’s heart, and can be a way for your kids to actively participate in another cultural celebration. “Exposing children to food is a window in which you know you can enter into somebody else’s culture,” says Almas Muscatwalla, a founding member of Faith Forward Dallas, a group that unites people of different faiths. Muscatwalla, a Plano native, recommends trying out a new recipe from a cookbook and having your kids participate in the cooking process to introduce them to the meals of other cultural celebrations. Whether it’s cooking, dining with friends or visiting a restaurant that cooks food specific to a certain culture, it’s good to prepare your kids’ taste buds in advance. For Mansfield mom Erica Bekerman and her four kids, this time of year means honoring their Jewish faith through Hanukkah (or Chanukah), but they’re no strangers to celebrating other cultural holidays like Christmas with family friends. “I might say, ‘OK, we’re gonna go somewhere and try some food. We probably have never tried any flavors like this before, so it might taste different than anything you’re used to,’” shares Bekerman, who volunteers at Beth-El Congregation in Fort Worth, a reform synagogue. “‘You don’t have to eat it all if you don’t like it, but let’s try it.’”
the Afro-centric bookstore and support them as well because most of them are, quite honestly, struggling because of lack of exposure,” he reveals. When it comes to wanting your kids to celebrate holidays that aren’t connected to your own culture or religion, Watkins recommends using your best judgment in order to avoid cultural appropriation. He says that playing games of other cultural celebrations is fine, as long as kids understand the context. For example, to learn about the African-American holiday Kwanzaa—a time when celebrants honor their African roots—kids can play mancala. For Hanukkah, kids play dreidel, a game that features a spinning top, with four sides, each with a letter significant to the religion. To ensure you’re celebrating respectfully, Watkins suggests seeking guidance from a member of the community whose traditions you’re participating in. “Ask questions and bring gifts to them in order to participate in the holiday that they hold sacred,” he says. Muscatwalla recommends that kids who don’t celebrate Christmas craft homemade birthday cards for Jesus as way to relate. “Children at this time—for them, one of the most important things that they like to celebrate in their life is birthdays,” the Ismaili Muslim says. She adds that birthday cards can also be made for the current Imam, whose birthday Ismaili Muslims celebrate on Dec. 13. Watkins agrees that homemade gifts are preferable for gift giving. “Give something that was handmade or that came from the heart,” he says.
“EXPOSING CHILDREN TO FOOD IS A WINDOW IN WHICH YOU KNOW YOU CAN ENTER INTO SOMEBODY ELSE’S CULTURE.”
NOT JUST A GAME
Reading books from the library can be a great resource for kids to learn about cultural holidays, but Watkins says you can take it a step further. “Go to the community and see
FOUNDATION OF FAITH
Muscatwalla, whose family celebrates American holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, notes the similarities in the way families celebrate their cultural holidays through food, music, games and gift giving. “It’s interesting how similar you can be once you start kind of celebrating each
IMAGE COURTESY OF SHEHZAD MAHERALI
SEEKING SURROGATE MOTHERS
GOOD TIMES
other’s faith and culture,” she says. “You find more commonality than differences.” Still, if you’re worried about confusing your kids about your beliefs, explain to your child the distinction between other cultural holidays and your own, advises Bekerman. “We can celebrate with them, we can learn about everything that they [do]—that doesn’t mean that’s your faith and what you believe, but you can still enjoy the holiday and celebrate with them,” she says. Muscatwalla adds that celebrating the music, food and other traditions of your own cultural holidays can serve as reminders of your heritage, even as you learn about the traditions of others. “There’s no one formula for that,” she shares. “It needs to be part and parcel of your daily conversations and your daily interactions in which you keep that [holiday] alive.”
COME TOGETHER You can find our favorite tree lightings and other holiday celebrations on page 35, but here are a few more cultural traditions to check out: Bring your sweet tooth to celebrate the Swedish tradition of St. Lucia at the St. Lucia Celebration and Yule Bazaar. The bazaar opens at 10am with Swedish crafts and baked goods like saffron buns and cinnamon rolls. After a candlelit procession with Swedish choir music and soloists, the bazaar reopens for more shopping and sweets. Saturday, Dec. 7, at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church; Free 9200 Inwood Road, Dallas; 214/691-4721 dallas.swea.org
Dallas: 214-295-5877 Flower Mound: 972-899-9332 Fort Worth: 817-741-2572 Frisco: 972-668-5990
Highland Village: 972-317-4158 McKinney: 214-491-4088 Plano: 972-612-5400 Southlake: 817-488-4600
AdventureKidsPlaycare.com
IMAGES COURTESY OF SWEA DALLAS; KWANZAAFEST DALLAS
Watch dancers and musicians representing a multitude of cultures at the Festival of Faiths on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the University of Texas at Dallas. The free event, put on by the Thanks-Giving Foundation’s Interfaith Council, will introduce your family to traditions from Central and Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson thanksgiving.org The whole crew can join in the fun at Dallas’ free KwanzaaFest with family-friendly activities, including inflatables and crafts at ParrishLand/KidFest. The two-day event, which hosts 50,000 people every year, starts Dec. 14 at Fair Park; email kwanzaafest@sbcglobal.net for more info. 3609 Grand Ave., Dallas johnwileyprice.com/kwanzaafest On Dec. 22, come out to Simpson Plaza outside Frisco City Hall for a giant menorah lighting, bounce house, crafts and a live Jewish folk band at the sixth annual Community Chanukah Celebration, hosted by Chabad of Frisco. Email rabbi@chabadfrisco.org. 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco; 214/460-7773 chabadfrisco.org
dfwchild.com / december 2019
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kid culture / T R A V E L
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celebrating the holidays in Fredericksburg WORDS ELIZABETH QUINN
T
he smell of evergreen is in the air; tinsel is hung with care; and German Weihnachten (aka Christmas) cuisine is here, along with other fare. The Texas German Christmas destination, Fredericksburg, brings the best of cultures together for the season, and the town takes it quite seriously. Park Cities mom Lasca Weiss grew up in Fredericksburg and goes back with her family (husband and two daughters) multiple times a year—including Christmas.
We got the inside scoop on where to go and what to eat during your visit.
FOR MUNCHING
Weiss explains that Fredericksburg has sprouted in the past 20 years with more restaurants, shops and wineries, so she enjoys trying new areas and acting like a tourist. Begin your German experience at ALTDORF BIERGARTEN, which closed for a rebuild but is now open. “The food is still German influenced, and they have a biergarten with live music, which is really fun and relaxing,” Weiss says. There are countless German eatery options, but in addition to Altdorf, Weiss recommends THE AUSLANDER and FRIEDHELM’S BAVARIAN INN. “[They] are older Fredericksburg staples to get German food and atmosphere,” she says. And if you find yourself with a sweet tooth after indulging in pretzels and beer, head to CLEAR RIVER because, as Weiss puts it enthusiastically, it is the place for ice cream.
FOR SIGHTSEEING
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If this is your first time in Fredericksburg, you should know there is more than just the Christmas
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atmosphere to experience. A short half-hour drive away in Johnson City is the SCIENCE MILL, a science museum filled with hands-on STEAM activities. There are over 50 exhibits, including the Cell Phone Disco, Biolab with microscopes, Incredible Ball Machine and Fossil Dig. While in Johnson City, be sure to check out the LYNDON B. JOHNSON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK that includes two distinct visitor centers separated by 14 miles. Between the visitor centers is a self-guided driving tour that includes the boyhood home of LBJ, the LBJ ranch and Johnson’s burial site. One more Fredericksburg-area recommendation: Since it is Texas and sometimes winter doesn’t actually mean winter, Weiss suggests climbing ENCHANTED ROCK. “It is a moderately challenging walk up, but once you are on the top of the rock, you can see for miles and miles, and the view is gorgeous,” she says.
FOR CELEBRATING
And the reason for the season, right? The Christmas festivities in Fredericksburg center in the MARKTPLATZ, strung with lights and a hand-carved, 26-foot-tall wooden Christmas pyramid that rotates. There is also music throughout the area and plenty of photo opportunities in the square, Weiss notes. Oh, and make sure you have socks because there’s a temporary ice skating rink. “The kids love it
1 / Bask in the twinkle lights in the Marktplatz, the hub of Christmas celebrations in Fredericksburg. 2 / Visit LBJ National Park to roam around our 36th President’s boyhood home and see his resting place. 3 / Get your STEAM on at the Science Mill. 4 / Grab some schnitzel at The Auslander, which specializes in Bavarian dishes.
when we visit, and they get into the Christmas spirit with all the decor,” Weiss says. As much as we want to list everything Fredericksburg offers during the holiday, there simply isn’t enough room, so we recommend going to visitfredericksburgtx.com to find their 2019 holiday guide, complete with all the events and information you’ll need to make a memorable Christmas. ALTDORF BIERGARTEN
altdorfs.com
THE AUSLANDER
theauslanderfredericksburg.com FRIEDHELM’S BAVARIAN INN
Search on Facebook CLEAR RIVER
icecreamandfun.com SCIENCE MILL
sciencemill.org
LYNDON B. JOHNSON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
nps.gov/lyjo
ENCHANTED ROCK
tpwd.texas.gov
MARKTPLATZ
fbgtx.org
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCIENCE MILL; THE AUSLANDER; NATIONAL PARK SERVICE; TRISH RAWLS
MERRY WEIHNACHTEN!
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Holiday
1 Vetro Help Create Ornament Events
Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery Create your own glass ornaments in our studio on select dates through December 28. $30 Traditional Ornament events and $50 Extreme Ornament events. vetroartglass.com
GIFT GUIDE
Playing Santa isn’t easy, but with a little help from our holiday gift guide you can check off your gift list for children, teachers, neighbors or anyone nice. Let the shopping begin and snatch up these unique holiday gifts.
2 RoughRiders Holiday Beach Bundle
Frisco RoughRiders, $99 RoughRiders Holiday Beach Bundle includes: 10 flex vouchers, team store gift card, 2 beach towels, cooler, and donation to Toys for Tots on your behalf. ridersbaseball.com
3 2020 Season Pass Bahama Beach Waterpark, $60/$90 Make a splash this season with the gift that keeps on giving all summer long—the 2020 Bahama Beach Waterpark season pass! bahamabeachdallas.com
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4 woom 3 16” Kids Bike woom bikes USA, $389
Woom designs high-quality, lightweight bikes for children of all ages. Built with meticulous attention to detail, our bikes are tailor-made for kids 1.5–14 years old. us.woombikes.com
5 Tone Down Spray Fitish, $18
CBD infused cooling mist with organic aloe, peppermint and coffee. CBD is a great treatment for acne, rosacea, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions! shop.fitish.com
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6 Children’s Acting Class KD Studio, $325
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This course teaches children about reading cold copy for auditions, talking/moving in front of a camera, and important aspects of the TV commercial business. kdstudio.com
7 Reunion Tower
GeO-Deck General Admission Ticket Reunion Tower, $8–$17
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Give the gift of Dallas at 470 feet! Join us for holiday photo ops, crafts and more. Activities are included with purchase of GeO-Deck tickets. reuniontower.com dfwchild.com / december 2019
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HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Holiday
Family Fun DIRECTORY
Here’s a list of family-friendly events and winter activities to get you in the holiday spirit; find more to explore at dfwchild.com/events. DESCRIPTION
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Adventure Kids Playcare adventurekidsplaycare.com 972/899-9332
Spend the holidays with Adventure Kids! We offer flexible options for every parent's need! Drop in holiday camps, exciting theme nights, daily activities and so much more. See ad on page 37.
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AT&T Performing Arts Center attpac.org 214/880-0202
Reliant Lights Your Holidays - Dec. 7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - Dec. 15 at Winspear Opera House. Once On This Island Dec. 17–22 Winspear Opera House. Tickets at attpac.org. See ad on page 7.
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Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park dallasheritagevillage.org 214/421-5141
Candlelight returns for its 48th year! Travel back in time this December 14–15 and celebrate the holidays like it's 1800s Texas. Come enjoy the hay rides, Victorian carolers, model train set, crafts, and St. Nicholas. See ad on page 4.
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Dallas Repertoire Ballet danceada.com 972/744-4650
Celebrate the holiday season as Dallas Repertoire Ballet presents the beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker, Dec. 13–15 at the Eisemann Center, including a sensory-friendly performance for children with special needs on Dec. 14 at 2pm.
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Dallas SPARK! sparkdallas.org 214/421-7727
Winter Break family fun and creativity. Climb, Crawl, Slide, Create with or without the kids. Drop-in Day Camps (7–13 years) and extended family hours Dec. 26–Jan. 3. Details and preregistration online.
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Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark epicwatersgp.com 972/337-3131
Add magic to your holiday season with Breakfast with Santa at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, happening Dec. 7, 14, and 21. Enjoy breakfast, a souvenir photo with Santa, holiday crafts and swim the entire day.
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Fairview Town Center fairviewtowncenter.com 972/363-2209
Santa's Winter Woods through Dec. 24 by appointment. Visit Santa at Fairview Town Center and enjoy indoor snow, children's art area, selfie stations, Christmas Store and more with minimal wait time and photo packages you create!
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Firewheel Town Center simon.com/mall/firewheel-town-center 972/675-1041
Visit Santa at the Santa Photo Experience from Nov. 22–Dec. 24. Enjoy holiday events, such as Holiday in the Park Nov. 23, Caring Santa Dec. 1, Pet Photos with Santa Dec. 8, Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14, and more!
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Galleria Dallas galleriadallas.com/holiday 972/898-8809
Santa has arrived at Galleria Dallas! Experience the wonder of the season as you journey through an interactive winter wonderland to visit Santa. Plus, skip waiting in long lines, make a reservation at galleriadallas.com/holiday. See ad on page 12.
december 2019 / dfwchild.com
HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DESCRIPTION
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Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau grapevinetexasusa.com/christmas-capital-of-texas 817/410-3185
Celebrate the magic of Christmas in Grapevine, the Christmas Capital of Texas. With 1,400 Christmas events in 40 days, enjoy millions of lights, enormous decorations, classic Christmas movies and more. It's more merry in Grapevine! See ad on page 48.
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Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary heardmuseum.org 972/562-5566
Experience the most unique North Texas holiday event at Holidays at the Heard, featuring live entertainment and a nature trail accentuated with holiday decor. See life-size animatronic dinosaurs along a nature trail at Dinosaurs Live!
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Hilton Anatole - Peppermint Park christmasattheanatole.com 214/761-7536
Christmas at the Anatole is a holiday festival for the entire family. The hotel transforms into a winter wonderland, known as Peppermint Park, including train rides, light displays, photos with Santa, holiday games and more.
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KidZania kidzaniausa.com 469/731-3900
KidZania is a real-life city built to inspire, educate and empower kids. With more than 100 activities, kids explore their way through the city and become different professions like fire-fighter, pilot, doctor, actor, among others. See ad on page 2.
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Klyde Warren Park’s Tree Lighting Celebration presented by VisitDallas klydewarrenpark.org/things-to-do/signature-events/ holiday-show-tree-lighting/index.html • 214/716-4500
On Dec. 7 from 2–6pm, enjoy photos with Santa and friends, stories with Mrs. Claus, games, and real snow! The day culminates with holiday music performances, fireworks, and the annual tree lighting.
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Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament - Dallas medievaltimes.com 888/935-6878
Celebrate the holidays like royalty! Experience our epic tournament, 4-course feast, performances by majestic horses, and the flight of our royal falcon. Use coupon code DC383 (adults $38.95, kids $30.95) for discounted prices. Offer expires 1/31/2020.
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Rainforest Cafe rainforestcafe.com 972/539-5001
Join us for Breakfast with Santa Dec. 7, 8, 14,15, 21 and 22. Start the holiday with a wild adventure! Bring the family to meet Santa and Cha! Cha! in the rainforest. Purchase tickets today at rainforestcafe.com.
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Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/712-7040
‘Tis the season to be jolly! Spread holiday cheer on the GeO-Deck with North Pole elves, crafts and photo ops every Saturday with a special visit from Santa on Dec. 14 from 12–3pm. See ad on page 15.
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Ripley's Believe It or Not! Grand Prairie ripleys.com/grandprairie 972/263-2391
Bring the family to Christmas at the Palace. Enjoy a glee-filled breakfast and picture with Santa Claus, fun holiday crafts, and unlimited time in all five of our Ripley attractions. Come have a Ripley's Christmas!
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Strong Fitness & Fun soarunited.com 972/373-4062
Get prepared for the holiday season and leave the kids to play with us! Holiday Parent's Night Out: Dec. 13 from 6–10pm. Mini Camps: Nov. 29 and Dec. 20 from 9am–12pm. Winter Camp: Jan. 2 and 3.
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The Theatre at Grand Prairie axs.com 888/929-7849
Hip Hop Nutcracker on Dec. 3. Cirque Musica presents Holiday Wishes on Dec. 21.
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Town of Little Elm littleelm.org/523/special-events 972/731-3299
Live reindeer, pictures with Santa, a light parade, a 5K, and more. Come visit Little Elm during Christmas at the Beach for the best holiday sightings!
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Trains at NorthPark thetrainsatnorthpark.com 214/631-7354
The Trains at NorthPark has been a holiday family tradition for 32 years! Support the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas while enjoying the best toy train exhibit in DFW. For more information, visit thetrainsatnorthpark.com. See ad on page 10.
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The Village at Allen villageatallen.com
Wonder at The Village returns to The Village at Allen at Hwy. 75 and Stacy Rd. Follow us on Facebook at @thevillageshopping for more holiday events including photos with Santa and Buddy the Elf sightings!
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STEM GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
STEM G U I D E
Parents know careers in science are growing at a rapid rate. From critical thinking games and hands-on labs to robotics and coding—you are anxious to give your budding inventor, entrepreneur or scientist an integrated education. Explore these STEM programs to help prepare your child for a future in technology.
A Hive of Creativity Alcuin’s Innovation Studio, known as The HIVE, is a high-tech, stateof-the-art facility open to first grade through Upper School students and is designed to promote educational success through a high-tech interactive learning environment that stimulates imagination, creativity, innovation, and leadership exploration. The HIVE is equipped with a variety of advanced technological supplies and tools for students to collaborate, innovate, and execute projects including a 3-D printer, All-In-One Learning Boards, a SMART Table®, and presentation theater. The HIVE is also home to the Alcuin Innovative and Entrepreneurial Leadership Speaker Series, allowing students to interact with today’s business and community leaders. Alcuin School 6144 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230 972-239-1745 alcuinschool.org
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STEM GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
STEAM-Based Learning at Children’s Learning Adventure A core objective at Children’s Learning Adventure is to prepare our students to excel in their lifelong academic journeys. We achieve this by implementing STEAM based curriculum activities to immerse students in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. These activities allow students discover areas they are interested in. Engaging curriculum encourages students to adopt a lasting love and pursuit of learning. When teachers invite students to actively participate in learning activities, every subject, topic of discussion, and experience becomes an opportunity to learn something new! Our students grow, explore, and apply new skills and concepts every day. By using this comprehensive method, our students develop the necessary critical thinking and problemsolving skills they need to be successful inside and outside the classroom.
Two DFW locations: WILLOW BEND 6095 Chapel Hill Blvd. Plano, TX 75093
childrenslearningadventure.com
KELLER / SOUTHLAKE 1841 Rufe Snow Dr. Keller, TX 76248
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STEM GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Join us at the largest STEM Expo in Texas! Come Explore, Design, Build and Create at Dallas ISD’s STEM Expo 2020. The district will showcase the student’s work in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics instruction. The 6,000 expected attendees will experience more than 150 hands-on and interactive activities, focused on areas such as aviation, coding, architecture, health and wellness, technology in art, virtual and augmented reality, and much more. The STEM Expo will also include seven district-wide STEM competitions. The event is free. Register online at dallasisd.org/stem.
Saturday, January 18, 2020 | 9am–3pm Dallas Independent School District Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center 650 S. Griffin St., Dallas, TX 75202 dallasisd.org/stem
Choose the Best. #ChooseGarlandISD The only option for true school choice, Garland ISD allows its families to attend any campus in the district regardless of where they live. Specialized curriculum options engage students in active, hands-on learning, from programming robots to studying stars in a portable planetarium. Students are also encouraged to explore potential passions for everything from piano and business to criminal justice and television production. GISD boasts a higher graduation rate than the area, state and nation. Its students and staff are also regularly recognized for outstanding academic performance. You want the best? Choose the best. #ChooseGarlandISD We’re always enrolling!
Garland Independent School District 501 S. Jupiter Rd., Garland 75042 972-494-8201 garlandisd.net
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STEM GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Prince of Peace Christian School — Home of the POPCS SmartLab Prince of Peace Christian School’s new $500,000 SmartLab®, is a 2,400 square-foot learning environment, where students explore science, mathematics, engineering, technology, and media arts through applied technology and project-based learning. There are over 400 STEM learning experiences in more than 60 content areas with 18 workstations. The SmartLab® is changing how kids are using technology and teaching them to engage in active creation instead of passive consumption. Through a problem-based approach, students develop critical-thinking skills, hone teamwork and collaboration, and are instilled with a persistent drive to solve problems. In today’s high-pressure environment, it’s teaching them that it’s OK to fail while developing new solutions. Prince of Peace Christian School 4004 Midway Road Carrollton, TX 75007 popcs.org
Thinking Outside the Box At St. John’s Episcopal School, we provide interdisciplinary units that encourage students to use critical thinking and creativity to solve real world problems. Through these STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) activities, students are guided through the design process, allowing them to go beyond simple solutions. Our philosophy emphasizes the learning process, growing from mistakes, collaborating to deepen students’ understanding, and ultimately creating products that are showcased to our community. Our vision is to expand learning beyond classroom walls, support all learners, and bring the school community closer together, while creating global connections and encouraging innovation, discovery, and collaboration. St. John's Episcopal School 848 Harter Rd. Dallas, TX 75218 StJohnsSchool.org
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STEM GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Bishop Lynch’s state-of-the-art campus isn’t the only thing that’s cutting edge. BL offers the following STEM learning opportunities: • • • • • •
Seventeen science courses, including astronomy and forensics Technology Enhanced Active Learning (TEAL) classrooms Gaming, digital design and AP computer science courses Robotics club and competitions Advanced math courses, including Calculus I, II and III and Linear Algebra Math Success Center (open daily) and Mu Alpha Theta Chapter Bishop Lynch High School 9750 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 214-324-3607 bishoplynch.org
STEM: Explore and Engage in Our World STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programs provide graduates with skills and knowledge necessary for high-tech jobs. Dallas International School provides a STEM program with courses from early years through high school. Dallas International School
dallasinternationalschool.org
PreK2–4th Grade 6039 Churchill Way Dallas, TX 75230 972-991-6379
5th–12th Grade 17811 Waterview Pkwy. Dallas, TX 75252 469-250-0001
STEM Center of Excellence Blooms with Exploration, Outdoor Family Fun Spring is a great time to enjoy STEM experiences and outdoor activities uniquely designed for girls and families. We offer “School’s Out, STEM’s On” during spring break; “Family ‘Pi’-thon”, “Sunday Funday” and “Taste of STEM” outdoor events from March to May. Girls can also learn about biomedical engineering through hands-on programs. Membership in Girl Scouts is $25/year. Program rates vary. Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas 6010 Whispering Cedar Drive Dallas, TX 75236 469-998-5484 • stemcenter.gsnetx.org
Greenhill Students Use Science and Art to Save Birds Greenhill Lower School scientists studied bird behavior and habitats, then used the design process to create bird-safe windows that mitigate damaging strikes. The student-designed decals are a meaningful integration of experiential projectbased learning that incorporates science, art, and design-thinking. Through projects like this one, Greenhill’s rich curriculum helps students build critical science, math, and engineering skills in prekindergarten through grade 12. Greenhill School 4141 Spring Valley Rd., Addison, TX 75001 972-628-5400 greenhill.org
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STEM GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Shelton STEM+ Full STEAM Ahead Fostering exploration, innovation, creation, collaboration Something for everyone: • • • • • •
Robotics Team, Grades 6–8 Coding, Grade 1 and above Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality Participation at local science/engineering fairs Maker space, 3D printer courses Engineering classes/club
• • • • •
Problem-solving experiences Gaming and 3D Animation Robust summer offerings After-school activities Expansive fine arts offerings
Shelton School & Evaluation Center 15720 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas, TX 75248 972-774-1772 • www.shelton.org
Home of the SmartLab®. As a leader in advanced education methods, STEM, STEAM, and STREAM are incorporated into the curriculum and enhanced through the SmartLab®. Students explore many disciplines through applied technology and project-based learning, building next generation skills. Activities include robotics, graphic design, biomedical, animation, engineering, music, circuitry, virtual reality, and more. Schedule a visit and learn how tradition meets innovation in preschool–8th grade.
St. Mark Catholic School 1201 Alma Drive, Plano, TX 75075 972-578-0610 stmcs.net
The Day School: Where Learning and Fun Meet Promoting opportunities to engage in hands-on exploration while growing in outside-the-box thinking, our STEAM lab is full of materials to explore, such as animals, bugs, fossils, and so much more! The Day School at Highland Park Pres 3821 University Blvd., Dallas, TX 75205 214-525-6500 • thedayschool.org
A Makerspace for Problem Solvers and Lifelong Learners Located in Old East Dallas, we’re a makerspace destination offering STEM camps, classes, birthday parties, and enrichment for professional skills development, with a focus on digital fabrication. Friendly to all ages and levels of communication. The Fab Lab at WorkChops 3122 Swiss Ave., Dallas, TX 75204 WorkChops.org
JOIN OUR TRIBE. GET REWARDED.
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22 F A M I L Y - F R I E N D L Y E V E N T S Y O U C A N ’ T M I S S I N
DECEMBER 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway, Grand Prairie; 972/237-4569 prairielights.org
DALLAS ZOO LIGHTS
THROUGH DEC. 8 // IT’S A CLASSIC—INTRODUCE YOUR KIDS TO CLARA AND THE NUTCRACKER PRINCE AT TEXAS BALLET THEATER’S THE NUTCRACKER.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS BALLET THEATER; BRET REDMAN; KAREN ALMOND
TEXAS BALLET THEATER’S THE NUTCRACKER
W IN SPE AR OPE R A HOUSE Through December 8 Clara and her Nutcracker Prince return to the stage and for this classical, full-length ballet set to the music of Tchaikovsky. Before settling into your seats for the 2pm Saturday performances, come early for the Kingdom of Sweets party in the lobby with crafts, storytime, a photo with a ballerina and a chance to try on costumes. Free with regular tickets, starting from $25. 2403 Flora St., Dallas; 877/828-9200 texasballettheater.org
SCROOGE PUPPET THEATRE
NORT H PARK C E N TE R Through December 24 Making a quick stop at NorthPark for holiday shopping? Stop into EastCourt near Dillard’s for this can’t-miss
tradition: A puppet version of Ebenezer Scrooge pops out of his second-floor cottage window and shouts “Bah humbug!” down to the masses. The funny, improvisational performances begin at the bottom of the hour. Come back for the final show on Christmas Eve, when Scrooge finally experiences a change of heart. FREE 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 214/363-7441 northparkcenter.com
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
W YLY TH EATR E Through December 29 Three spirits take Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey through his past, present and future Christmases in this family series production by Dallas Theater Center. Come witness how he transforms from, well, a Scrooge to a joyful soul in this classic tale from Charles Dickens. Tickets from $12.50. 2400 Flora St., Dallas; 214/522-8499 dallastheatercenter.org
HOLIDAY AT THE ARBORETUM
DA LL AS A RB ORET UM Through December 31 The dozen glass gazebos, each featuring a different line from “The 12 Days of Christmas,” return to the arboretum for daytime viewing and, on select nights, nighttime viewing with all the lights and sparkle of the holiday season. Look online for a full list of holiday exhibits, activities and special festival pricing from $5. Separate tickets required for nighttime viewing. 8525 Garland Road, Dallas; 214/515-6615 dallasarboretum.org
DA LL AS ZO O Through January 5 Come early on select days to see the animals before they turn in for the night (around 4pm), and stick around to see the lights flip on at 5pm, transforming ZooNorth into a winter wonderland of light displays and silk-covered lanterns in the shape of zoo animals. Warm up with hot cocoa as you stroll under a rainbow arch or make ornaments from natural materials. Animal encounters begin every 30 minutes in the Elves’ Workshop at the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo. Free with regular admission: $17 adults; $14 children ages 3–11. 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas; 469/554-7500 dallaszoo.com
ICE! FEATURING A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS
G AYLORD T E X A N Through January 5 Bundle up and buckle up to experience this real-life winter wonderland kept at a frigid 9 degrees. You’ll zip
down two-story ice slides and stroll through an exhibit of colorful ice sculptures modeled after scenes from the Charlie Brown holiday film. More fun at the Gaylord’s Lone Star Christmas includes ice skating, 12 lanes of snow tubing, Santa’s Snow Throw and Breakfast with Charlie Brown & Friends. Prices vary by activity. ICE! tickets are $23.99 for adults and $14.99 for children. 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine; 817/778-1000 christmasatgaylordtexan.com
THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK
NORT HPA RK C ENT ER Through January 5 Make a coast-to-coast journey via this miniature train exhibit of 1,600 feet of track and scenes from landmarks across America. Take a closer look to see recognizable locations in Dallas, plus some visitors from outer space. Tickets are $7 for adults; $4 for children ages 2–12; free for children under 2. Hand-painted railcars also available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.
PRAIRIE LIGHTS
LYNN CRE E K PA RK Through December 31 On the prowl for Christmas lights? Step up your game at this drive-thru holiday light park with two miles of all-new displays, then step out of your car to explore the Holiday Village—where you’ll find a walkthrough forest, carnival rides (free with admission), an indoor holiday performance and photos with Santa (through Dec. 23). $45 per car.
THOUGH JAN. 5 // LOOK FOR FAMILIAR LANDMARKS AMONG THE MINIATURES AT THE TRAINS OF NORTHPARK.
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8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 214/631-7354 thetrainsatnorthpark.com
CHRISTMAS AT THE BEACH
L A KE F RON T AT LIT T LE E L M December 1–31 Plan to spend your winter staycation on Little Elm’s sandy beach to visit Santa Land, open all month and featuring a 30-foot Christmas tree. Two weekends of extra fun begin Dec. 7 with a light-up parade, tree lighting and fireworks. See live reindeer on Dec. 8, and enjoy train rides and s’mores Dec. 14–15. Entrance into Santa Land is free. Commemorative photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus available for purchase, or snap your own for free. 701 W. Eldorado Parkway, Little Elm; 972/731-3296 lakefrontlittleelm.com
DICKENS IN DOWNTOWN PLANO
PL A NO ART S DI ST RIC T December 6 Honor Christmas in your heart, as Charles Dickens wrote, and experience this family festival with visits from Santa, strolling carolers in costume, Polar Express fun at the Interurban Railway Museum and, at 7pm, the town tree lighting. As you see the sights around Haggard Park and McCall Plaza, keep warm with hot cocoa, smoked turkey legs and funnel cakes. FREE 901 E. 15th St., Plano; 972/941-7275 visitplano.com
DALLAS HOLIDAY PARADE
D OW N TOW N DAL L AS December 7 Don’t miss the 32nd annual parade with marching bands, festive floats and all the holiday staples from 10am–noon. Find a spot along the parade route early for the best view,
CALENDAR or snag limited reserved seating in the bleachers available from $20. No tickets needed for kids 24 months and younger sitting in an adult’s lap. Limited premiere tickets include stadium seats, a swag bag and a meet and greet with Santa. Commerce Street, Dallas; 469/628-5399 dallasholidayparade.com
LANTERN LIGHT
H ER ITAGE FAR MSTEAD MU SEUM December 7 Dozens of kerosene lanterns lend a warm glow to the Heritage Farmstead’s annual holiday party, which this year nods back to the Roaring Twenties with the theme An Era of Astounding Inventions. Bundle up and take a walk around the 4-acre farmstead to see products from that era, hop on the wagon for free rides and experience more holiday fun. $5 admission. 1900 W. 15th St., Plano; 972/881-0140 heritagefarmstead.org
RELIANT LIGHTS YOUR HOLIDAYS
SAMMONS PAR K December 7 Maximize your holiday fun by coming to Klyde Warren Park for Santa photos and playtime in real snow beginning at 2pm before the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and follow the crowd across the street to Sammons Park (outside the Winspear Opera House) for Reliant Lights Your Holidays, a second party beginning at 5:30pm with more lights, crafts, concerts and a fireworks show. FREE 2403 Flora St., Dallas; 214/880-0202 attpac.org
LITTLE WOMEN
DALL AS CH ILDR EN’ S TH EATER December 7–22
An all-teen cast presents a musical about sisters Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy as they face adventure, hope and heartbreak during the Civil War. Tickets are $16; the show is recommended for age 9 and older. For younger kids, check out the lighthearted production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Christmas Show through Dec. 29. Tickets from $17. 5938 Skillman St., Dallas; 214/740-0051 dct.org
DISNEY JUNIOR HOLIDAY PARTY! ON TOUR
T HE T HE AT RE AT G R A ND PR A IRIE December 8 Dance in your seats to “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls” during this one-day-only live performance by Bingo and Rolly from Puppy Dog Pals, Vampirina, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and characters from the new animated series T.O.T.S. Santa makes an appearance at the end of the show. Tickets from $19. VIP packages available for meet and greets with the characters and Santa. 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie; 800/745-3000 disneyjuniortour.com
TEA WITH THE SUGAR PLUM FAIRY
HILTON G A RDE N INN December 8 Before the Allen Civic Ballet’s performances of The Nutcracker Dec. 21–22, you’ll have the chance to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and sit with her on her jewel-encrusted throne at this formal tea. Snack on lemonade and treats while Mother Ginger tells the story of the Nutcracker, and visit with Clara and the Nutcracker Prince on the Snow Queen’s ice blue sleigh. Tickets from $15. 705 Central Expressway S., Allen; 972/727-5959 allencivicballet.org
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE ON STAGE
DEC. 8 //YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTERS UNITE FOR THE SEASONAL SINGING AND DANCING AT THE DISNEY JUNIOR HOLIDAY PARTY!
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THE PAVILION AT TOYOTA MUSIC FACTORY December 11 Uncover the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of inclusion with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang when this classic television short comes to life in a stage adaptation. After the final bow, the show
NEW YEAR, WHO DIS? Plan ahead for two of our favorite events to celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with your littles. NYE COUNTDOWN ’TIL NOON
SCI- T E CH DISC OVE RY CE NT E R December 31 Rather than staying up until midnight, celebrate the new year with a massive balloon drop at this kid-focused noontime party. Sci-Tech rings in 2020 with explosive demonstrations and science experiments, plus balloon twisters and trampoline fun. Admission online through 8am Dec. 31: $5 members; $10 nonmembers; free for children younger than 3. At the door: $6 members; $12 nonmembers. 8004 N. Dallas Parkway, Frisco; 972/546-3050 mindstretchingfun.org
DAY 1 DALLAS
DR PE PPE R BA LLPA RK A ND E MBASSY SU I T ES C ONVE NT ION CE NT E R January 1 This New Year’s Day family fest that started in Dallas moves to Frisco this year. Let the kids sleep in and then join the crafts and games starting at 3pm leading up to the fireworks show at 7pm. Tickets are $5; free for children 2 years and younger. Proceeds benefit Vogel Alcove, a local nonprofit that helps children recover from the traumatic effects of homelessness. 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco; 214/368-8686 day1dallas.com
transitions into a Christmas carol sing-along. Runs a total of 90 minutes including an intermission. Tickets from $29.95. VIP includes a meet and greet with the characters. 300 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving; 800/653-8000 acharliebrown christmaslive.com
CANDLELIGHT
DA LL AS HE RITAG E VILL AG E December 14–15 St. Nicholas wears a green Santa suit—not red—and many more village interpreters dress in period costumes at this 48th annual holiday festival inside Old City Park. Munch on roasted nuts as you listen to the strolling carolers in and around the historic buildings, check out the toy trains inside the depot and visit resident donkeys Nip, Willie and Waylon. Discount tickets in advance: $12 adults; $8 children 4–12; free for children 3 and younger. At the gate: $14 adults; $10 children. 1515 S. Harwood St., Dallas; 214/421-5141 dallasheritagevillage.org
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER
WINSPE A R OPER A HOUSE December 15 All the characters from the 1964 stop-motion TV special appear in life size and on stage for this live musical production. Pause the rest of your holidays to-do’s to see Rudolph and the 12-foot-tall Abominable Snow Monster during two Sunday performances. Tickets from $25. 2403 Flora St., Dallas; 214/880-0202 attpac.org
CIRQUE MUSICA’S HOLIDAY WISHES
T HE T HE AT RE AT G R A ND PR A I RI E
DECEMBER 21
You won’t see Santa pulling any of these moves. Put a spin on your holiday entertainment with this high-flying show from Cirque Musica, a wildly talented cast of acrobats, aerialists, strongmen and contortionists performing live to a full orchestra. Tickets from $29.75. 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie; 888/929-7849 cirquemusica.com
F O R M O R E F A M I LY- F R I E N D LY F U N T H I S M O N T H , C H E C K O U R O N L I N E C A L E N D A R A T DFWCHILD.COM/CALENDAR. A N D W H I L E Y O U ’ R E T H E R E , S I G N U P F O R O U R W E E K LY E - N E W S L E T T E R : THE WEEKEND GUIDE.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF LITTLE ELM; DISNEY JUNIOR;; DAN NORMAN; FREEPIK.COM
kid culture /
BEST EVER 2020
T R AV E L
ST EM
county/locavore. dallas
PHOTO COURTESY OF HELPING HANDS FOR SINGLE MOMS
BELOW // Noelle LeVeaux, executive director of Helping Hands for Single Moms in Dallas, is working to end generational poverty.
influencer /
HELPING HER a q&a with noelle leveaux of helping hands for single moms
WORDS
SYDNEY BLALOCK RITCHIE
D
URING THE HOLIDAY SEASON, WE SEE AN INCREASE IN GENEROSITY.
From choosing a tag off the Salvation Army Angel Tree to making a Toys for Tots donation, many people are in the spirit to give to those in need. But that’s a mindset we can keep throughout the year. Noelle LeVeaux—local single mom, breast cancer survivor and mompreneur extraordinaire—spearheads an organization that does just that. The Dallas chapter of Helping Hands for Single Moms removes everyday obstacles that single mothers face while pursuing higher education. The organization does everything from providing stipends for bills or child care to offering tech support—all to end generational poverty, one single mom at a time. → dfwchild.com / december 2019
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dallas co. / I N F L U E N C E R What brought you to Helping Hands? I’ve always been super passionate about women. I mean, so goes the woman, so goes the family. I just really believe that. And cancer will change your life. So, ever since that, I’ve kind of readjusted my life. I just believe that God kept me around for more than just my family. So, it was probably toward the end of last year I started looking for a place to volunteer, and Helping Hands for Single Moms came up. Then, they were looking for an executive director. I was like, “Um…?” That’s not just volunteering. Yeah, I was like, “I don’t know about that.” It was just getting started here, and more than anything I really wanted the organization to get a good start in the Dallas market. I have a lot of good relationships, and I’ve started an organization here before. I felt like, if nothing else, I’d be the best person maybe to start it. What’s the goal of Helping Hands? What
we’re trying to do is break a cycle. Education actually breaks the [poverty] cycle that [the women we help] grew up in, that their moms grew up in—that they don’t want for their kids. If you look at the bigger number in regard to poverty, not only across our nation but specifically here in Dallas, it’s a little overwhelming—almost 50% of those households are led by a single mom. They’re a strategic audience to really focus on.
Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.
How does the program work? The [moms] have
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little things. … It’s the difference between the lights being on or not. And those are commodities we take for granted so easily. Very, very easily. For me,
it’s about closing that gap between the haves and the have-nots. I think that if more people on the “have” side realize there are ways to invest that can actually help pull some of the have-nots out of that category, I think they’d be willing to invest. We don’t call it a handout; we call it a hand up, because they’re really helping themselves by getting an education. That can completely change the trajectory of their lives. Of course. They’re setting an
exceptional example for their kids, because [then] there’s not even a question whether their kids go to college or not. What I’ve come to learn as I’ve been doing this is that many [programs] treat the symptoms of poverty. The truth is that 85% of [children] that live in poverty will live as adults in poverty. So, it’s great that we’re sending a LEND A HAND backpack home with food on a Friday for these kids, (OR A DOLLAR) but I’m telling you, 85% “The majority of all not-for-profits of them you’ll do the same receive their money from indithing for their kids, and vidual donors,” LeVeaux says. “So, if you know a single mom, if you’ve that’s what we’re trying to stop. been touched by a single mom, if
you are a single mom, give to our organization because you know that you’re helping someone who’s doing their very best.”
have a program called Holiday Happiness where you can adopt our singlemom families. I want them to be able to do something nice for their kids [and] I would like to do something nice for them. So we’re looking to maybe get a jewelry sponsor that would give them a pendant, or just something that reminds them that they’re special. I’m a single mom, I’ve been a single mom for a long time. Luckily, I have great support from my mom, my family, my friends, my ex-husband … but not everybody has that. I know how hard our moms are working; I just really want to do something nice for them for the holiday. How does Holiday Happiness work? When you adopt a family, [donors] come to the event, bring the gifts and they get to meet mom, and mom and the donors wrap the gifts together. A lot of times when we give, or we donate, we never meet the recipient. I think that’s a really unique experience to be able to meet the mom. We hope that relationships with some corporations will be established, and they’ll really understand that there’s a person behind this who is fighting for her life and her children.
To donate, visit helpinghandsforsinglemoms.org/ dallas/donate.
to already be enrolled in school and been in school for at least a semester. We’re not trying to convince someone to go to school. We’re basically saying, “Way to go. Congratulations for deciding to make this sacrifice, and we’re going to come alongside you.” [The women are] primarily in Dallas and Collin County, but I’ll get calls from moms at UNT or even out in Tarrant. I say if you can make our meetings every other month, we’re happy to have you. We provide a monthly, unrestricted stipend. The first year it’s $200; second year it’s $300. It’s unrestricted because they have child care, some of them use it for school, some it’s just an additional asset to pay bills. They all live within 150% of the poverty line, [and] many of our moms are in full-time nursing school. Does a $200 or $300 stipend really help?
For some people $200 a month doesn’t sound like a lot, but studies have shown that if you increase an impoverished home’s income by about $300 a month, that increases the children’s future income by about 17%. It’s the
So, we’re nearing the holidays. Do you do anything extra during the holiday season for these moms? We
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dallas co. / G R E E N
SCENE
DALLAS’
CUSTOM PAINTINGS 469.254.8762 juliandounleystudios.com
PACIFIC PLAZA PARK LOCATION: 401 N. Harwood St., Dallas. The park—which opened in October—is in the heart of downtown, right across the street from Medusa Dallas. For parking, there are meters down Pacific Avenue; you can also find public lots, such as Lot 175 Platinum Parking, in the surrounding area. Pro tip: Some parking lots’ minimum fee is around $10. BEST FOR: Taking the kids for a stroll or running around. A paved path along the perimeter has plenty of tables, chairs and benches, while the interior is a large, open green space where littles can play or you can have a picnic. The park also has plenty of bushes, trees and other plants. Stone chairs and tables right off the path add to the natural feel. Check out the sculptural light fixtures that look like trees. FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE: Besides the bright orange chairs and tables (low tops and high tops) and the stone chairs and tables, there are stone platforms around the playground that are wide enough for you and the mom backpack (you know, the one with bandages, snacks, etc.). The playground, simply named “Play,” includes a swingset (no baby swings, though), two seesaws and green mounds. Play equipment is designed for ages 2–12, but parents can enjoy it too. There is a full bathroom (men’s and women’s sections) within the park; it even has a sink with soap and water. Also, Pacific Plaza is part of the Harwood street pedestrian corridor. If you’re in the mood, you can walk from Klyde Warren Park to Pacific Plaza and Main Street Garden, all the way to Dallas Farmers Market. SAFETY: The surface of the playground is a squishy turf substance, but it can get heated under the sun. The park is next to North Harwood Street and Pacific Avenue, so be aware of traffic. It is, after all, downtown Dallas. —Elizabeth Quinn
+
+ Plants all around the park + A full restroom + Plenty of seating + Brand-new equipment
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-
– The area can be busy – Parking isn’t necessarily free – Turf surface on playground can heat up
Overall Grade: 5/5 swings
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH QUINN
Julian Dounley Studios
NC19-Dallas Child 3.5.pdf
16
9/24/19
3:22 PM
Dallas Repertoire Ballet C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Friday, Dec. 13th at 7:30 pm
Saturday, Dec. 14th at 2:00 pm* and 7:30 pm
Sunday, Dec. 15th at 2:00 pm
*sensory-friendly performance designed for children with sensory processing disorders and special needs
Eisemann Center 2351 Performance Drive Richardson, Texas 75082
For tickets call
972.744.4650
Order online at www.eisemanncenter.com This organization is funded in part by the City of Richardson through the City of Richardson Cultural Arts Commission.
The Academy of Dance Arts is the official school of the Dallas Repertoire Ballet — www.danceada.com
epic IN EVERY
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Pre-Purchase Tickets and Book Events Today! 2970 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75052 | epicwatersgp.com | 972.337.3131 dfwchild.com / december 2019
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EAT CHEAP
Denny’s | Diner Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult meal from 4–10pm. Drinks not included. Details vary by location. Deal also offered Tuesday, though some days vary by location. Ages 12 and under. Multiple locations; dennys.com Paradise Bakery | Deli
Free kids meal after 4pm with purchase of an adult entree. Deal also offered Tuesday. 13710 Dallas Parkway, Dallas; 972/503-1800; paradisebakery.com Posados Cafe | Tex-Mex
KIDS EAT CHEAP!
meal deals for every day
Fill little tummies by spending a crisp Lincoln or less. Know of a deal we missed? Send us an email at editorial@dfwchild.com. = Kids eat free EDITED BY KRISTIN BLAKE
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. 4000 Towne Crossing Blvd., Mesquite; 972/682-0688; posados.com The String Bean | Southern
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult dinner entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. 1310 W. Campbell Road, Richardson; 972/385-3287; thestringbean.com
TUESDAY
Hat Creek Burger Company | Burgers
Burgers are half off on Family Night from 5–9pm. Deals from $2.25. 8185 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 1400, Dallas; 469/206-3305 3318 Lakeview Parkway, Rowlett; 469/4430731; hatcreekburgers.com Luna Grill | Mediterranean
Blue Mesa Grill | Tex-Mex
Kids age 5 and younger eat free brunch with purchase of an adult brunch buffet from 9am–3pm. Deal also offered from 10am–2pm Saturday. 14866 Montfort Drive, Addison; 972/9340165; bluemesagrill.com Café Brazil | Breakfast/Brunch
Free kids entree with purchase of an adult entree from 5PM to close. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered Monday–Thursday. Multiple locations; cafebrazil.com Cowboy Chicken | Southern
Kids eat free after 4pm with purchase of an adult entree. Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger. Deal also offered on Monday (but Monday only at the Greenville Avenue restaurant); other details vary by location. Multiple locations; cowboychicken.com Dickey’s | Barbecue
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult dinein meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. Also, free ice cream every day with dine-in purchase. Details vary by location. Multiple locations; dickeys.com Modern Market | Farm-to-Table
Kids eat free from 5 to close. All ages. Dine-in only. Deal also offered Monday. Details vary by location. 58
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7949 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 101, Dallas; 469/532-0206; modernmarket.com Oliver’s Eatery | Deli
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Dine-in only. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered Saturday. Kids meals are under $5 on weekdays. 4727 Frankford Road, Suite 373, Dallas; 972/818-5445; oliverseatery.com Slim Chickens | Southern
Free kids meal with purchase of one adult meal. Age 10 and younger. Dine-in only. 9100 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 469/4669016; slimchickens.com Steak ’n Shake | American
Free kid’s meal for every $9 spent at participating locations. Does not include drinks or shakes. Dine-in only. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered on Saturday. Kids meals are regularly priced under $3. Multiple locations; steaknshake.com
MONDAY
Cristina’s Fine Mexican Restaurant | Tex-Mex
Kids age 12 and younger eat for under $2. Discounted kids meals with purchase of an adult meal, all day. Dine-in only. Deal also offered Tuesday. Number of discounted kids’ meals varies by location. Multiple locations; cristinasmex.com
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult meal after 4pm. Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger. All day at Dallas location. 8165 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 1300, Dallas; 469/480-8480 1419 E. Renner Road, Suite 510, Richardson; 469/677-6812; lunagrill.com Pluckers | American
Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Dine-in only. Age 10 and younger. Drinks not included. 5100 Belt Line Road, Suite 520, Addison; 972/490-9464 5500 Greenville Ave., Suite 406, Dallas; 214/363-9464; pluckers.com Slater’s 50/50 | Burgers
Kids age 12 and younger eat free from the kids menu with purchase of an adult entree, all day. At this location only. 2817 Greenville Ave., Dallas; 214/888-0158; slaters5050.com Texadelphia | American
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entre, all day. Dine-in only. Details vary by location. Multiple locations; texadelphia.com
WEDNESDAY
Braindead Brewing | American
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. 2625 Main St., Dallas; 214/749-0600; braindeadbrewing.com
©ISTOCK
SUNDAY
Charco Broiler | Steakhouse
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree from 5–9pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. 413 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas; 214/9426806; charcodallas.com
November 29 to December 23
Colter’s Texas Bar-B-Q | Barbecue
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult platter after 4pm. Age 12 and younger. 3904 W. Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas; 972/298-3335; coltersbbq.com Luby’s | Cafeteria
What’s on your Christmas list?
Free kids plate with purchase of an adult dine-in meal, all day. Age 12 and younger. Deal also offered on Saturday. Details vary by location. Multiple locations; lubys.com Penne Pomodoro | Italian
Up to two free kids meals with purchase of an adult entree from 4–10pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. Deal offered all day at the Preston Road location. 1924 Abrams Parkway, Dallas; 214/8266075 11661 Preston Road, Suite 143, Dallas; 214/368-3100; pennepomodoro.com
THURSDAY
Jason’s Deli | American
Plan your family’s perfect wish-list weekend at the Hilton Anatole. Enjoy breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Clause, explore Peppermint Park, and celebrate the holiday season in style!
2201 N Stemmons Fwy Dallas, TX 75207 214 748 1200 • ChristmasAtTheAnatole.com
Free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entree from 5-10pm. Details might vary by location. 5400 E Mockingbird Ln., Dallas; 214/8217021; jasonsdeli.com Beto’s Mexican Restaurant | Tex-Mex
Free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. 2530 W. Interstate 20, Grand Prairie; 972/660-1289; eatatbetos.com El Chico Café | Tex-Mex
Kids age 12 and younger eat for 99 cents from the Little Amigos menu with purchase of an adult entree, all day. Details vary by location. 1111 N. Interstate 35 E., DeSoto; 972/228-2133 503 Interstate 30, Rockwall; 972/771-8814; elchico.com
SATURDAY
El Rincon Mexican Kitchen | Tex-Mex
Free kid’s entree with the purchase of an adult entree from 11am–1pm. Age 12 and younger. 1114 S. Elm St., Suite 100, Carrollton; 469/892-6429; elrincontx.com
EVERY DAY
Big Al’s Smokehouse | Barbecue
Free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entree after 5pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. Deal offered all day on Saturday. Closed Sunday. 3317 Inwood Road, Dallas; 214/350-2649; bigalsbbq.com dfwchild.com / december 2019
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EAT CHEAP
The Biscuit Bar | Breakfast
Kids meals from $4.50. Ages 12 and younger. 6501 Hillcrest Ave., Dallas; 469/4985974; thebiscuit.bar Blatt Beer & Table | Burgers
Kids’ meals from $4. All ages. 7859 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas; 469/3722080; blattbeer.com Bread Winners Café | American Kids meals from $5. All ages. Details might vary by location. Multiple locations, breadwinnerscafe.com The Crab Station | Seafood
Kids’ meals from $3.99. All ages. Details vary by location. 2625 Old Denton Road, Suite 572, Carrollton; 972/242-2889 9780 Walnut St. Suite 270, Dallas; 972/889-3888; crab-station.com
Texas de Brazil | Brazilian
Kids age 2 and younger eat free. Kids ages 3−5 eat for $5. Details vary by location. 15101 Addison Road, Addison; 972/3851000 2727 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas; 214/7201414; texasdebrazil.com Thai Box | Asian
Kids meals from $4.25. All ages. 4816 Belt Line Road, Addison; 972/2333269; thaiboxusa.com Torchy’s Tacos | Tex-Mex
Hook Line & Sinker | Seafood
Tropical Smoothie Cafe | Sandwiches
Keller’s Drive-In | Burgers
Menu options from $2.50. Details vary by the location. 10226 Garland Road, Dallas; 214/319-6060 10554 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas; 214/357-3572 6537 E. Northwest Highway, Dallas; 214/368-1209 McAlister’s Deli | Deli
Kids’ meals cost 99 cents when you dine in and $2.99 for takeout. Age 12 and younger. Details vary by location. Multiple locations; mcalistersdeli.com Original Chop Shop | Healthy Kids meals from $5. All ages. Details might vary by location. Multiple locations, originalchopshop.com Pakpao Thai | Asian Kids meals from $5. Age 12 and younger. Details vary by location. 1628 Oak Lawn Ave., Suite 120, Dallas; 214/749-7002 7859 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 150, Dallas; 214/484-8772; pakpaothai.com Samee’s Pizza Getti | Italian
Kids eat for $4.95. Ages 12 and younger. 561 E. Interstate 30, Rockwall; 972/722-5835; sameespizzagetti.com Ads with © are © of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2019.
Kids’ meals from $3. All ages. Details vary by location. 4814 Greenville Ave., Dallas; 214/265-1411 4023 Lemmon Ave., Dallas; 214/599-7873; startrestaurant.net
Kids’ meals from $2.50. Details might vary by location. Multiple locations; torchystacos.com
Kids’ meals from $3.75. Age 12 and younger. 3103 Lemmon Ave., Dallas; 214/965-0707; hookline-sinker.com
december 2019 / dfwchild.com
Start | American
Kids’ meals cost $4.99. Age 12 and younger. Multiple locations; elfenix.com
El Fenix | Tex-Mex
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2701 Custer Parkway, Suite 915, Richardson; 214/484-2689; shadysburgers.com
Shady’s Burgers | Burgers
Kids’ meals from $5. All ages. Details might vary by location. 9661 Audelia Road, Dallas; 469/726-2920
Smoothies from $2.99; entrees a la carte from $3.49. Smoothies are discounted when added to entrees. All ages. 4560 W. Mockingbird Lane, Suite 118, Dallas; 214/351-7037; tropicalsmoothiecafe.com Twisted Root | Burgers Kids’ meals starting at $4. All ages. Multiple locations; twistedrootburgerco.com Unleavened Fresh Kitchen | American
Up to two free kids’ meals with purchase of an adult meal after 4pm. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. Multiple locations; unleavened.com Velvet Taco | Tex-Mex
Kids’ meals starting at $3. All ages. Details might vary by location. Multiple locations; velvettaco.com Whiskers Fish & Burgers | American
Menu items starting at $3.75. 1702 Singleton Blvd., Dallas; 214/939-3474; whiskersfishandburgers.com Whistle Britches | American
Kids’ meals from $3. Age 12 and younger. 6110 Frankford Road, Dallas; 972/590-8991; whistlebritcheschicken.com Yolk | Breakfast
Kids’ meals from $4 with purchase of an adult entree. Age 12 and younger. Dine-in only. 1722 Routh St., Suite 132, Dallas; 214/8559655; 8315 Westchester Drive, Dallas; 469/3510344; eatyolk.com
Find our full list of local kids eat cheap and kids eat free deals at dfwchild.com. Be sure to call before you go, as details are subject to change. Know of one we missed? Email us at editorial@dfwchild.com.
Calling it another hospital is like calling Frisco another city.
Introducing the all-new, altogether different Texas Health Hospital Frisco. There’s no place in America that’s quite like Frisco. That’s why it deserves a hospital that’s one of a kind. From the moment you arrive on campus, you will see that Texas Health Hospital Frisco was built with you in mind. It has everything you would anticipate from an advanced medical center, including a collaboration with world-renowned UT Southwestern. But it also has touches you wouldn’t expect, like boot camps and yoga classes, walking trails and natural building materials like wood and limestone, and a rainwater irrigation system. And that makes us more than a hospital, we’re a destination for your health and well-being.
Open December 2019 TexasHealth.org/FriscoHealth
Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health Hospital Frisco. © 2019
confessions
MOM TRUTHS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN
COMPILED BY LISA SALINAS
I GAVE MY 5-YEAR-OLD A CATALOG AND ASKED HER TO CIRCLE THINGS SHE WANTED FOR CHRISTMAS. A FEW DAYS LATER, WE PASS A TOY AISLE AND SHE SAYS, ‘I’M GETTING THIS AND THAT…’ I SAY, ‘SWEETIE, YOU DO KNOW THAT SANTA IS NOT BRINGING YOU ALL OF THOSE THINGS.’ SHE SAYS, ‘YES, HE IS. I CIRCLED IT IN THAT BOOK.’”
WHEN were traveling to see Grandma, and YOU FORGET theWe driver asked my daughter where she TO MOVE came from. She replied, ‘Jesus.’” THE ELF ON “Every year my 8-year-old son THE SHELF “My son asked where wants to change so many things we could buy a baby. AND YOUR in his letter to Santa before I explained that sending it. I tell him that Santa DAUGHTER can tell if you erase stuff from mommies have them the list and will not give gifts to THINKS IT’S in their tummies. He kids who get greedy. My sistersaid I need to eat a HER FAULT in-law took him to a holiday celebration, and when a helper lot of candy to grow THAT IT’S tried to have him write a letter a big belly because Santa, he replied, ‘Oh, no ‘STUFFED,’ tothank he really wants a you! If I make another baby brother this letter, Santa is not gonna bring AND STARTS Christmas.” CONFESS- me anything.’” ING TO ALL My sisters and I forgot to buy champagne for the New Year’s THE NAUGHTY midnight toasting. We decided to run to the liquor store and told my 7-year-old daughter she could not come with us. She THINGS SHE’S Got a funny parenting moment looked grossed out when we mentioned where we were going and you’d like to share? We’d love to BEEN UP TO!” said, ‘Who are y’all going to lick at the lick-her store?’” hear from you. Send it to —AMETRIA, HEARTLAND
—MARÍA, ALLEN
—GABRIELA, DALLAS
—KAVITA, FLOWER MOUND
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editorial@dfwchild.com.
—STEPHANIE, PLANO
—LAKIN, FORNEY
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
