DFWChild February/March 2024 by DFWChild

FEBRUARY / M A R C H 2024

SOUND ADVICE

DOES MY KID HAVE ADHD?

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL MILESTONES TO KNOW

RETRO CANDY SHOPS

T H E M A G A Z I N E PA R E N T S L I V E B Y I N D A L L A S -F O R T W O R T H

30 FAMILY FUN EVENTS

MEET CHOCOLATIER MOM KATE WEISER

SENSORY OVERLOAD COPING WITH OVERSTIMULATION IN PARENTHOOD

MOM-APPROVED OB-GYNS, MIDWIVES & FERTILITY SPECIALISTS

A website for families raising children with disabilities For parents, by parents “This website makes me feel calm about helping our children. It relieves our doubts. It’s very friendly and easy to understand.” Visit navigatelifetexas.org/dfw-child to find: • Connection to support groups • Personal stories from families like yours • Answers to your questions about insurance, schools, diagnosis, and more

Find the resources you need at navigatelifetexas.org/dfw-child Todo el contenido disponible en español a project of:

pages / F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H 2 0 2 4

FEATURE 24 Overstimulated Mom Surviving the sensory overload that is parenthood words Amanda Collins Bernier

DEPARTMENTS NOTED 7 Social Studies An early childhood guide to social and emotional learning at home 10 By the Numbers / Heart Smart A look at kids’ cardiovascular health 12 Sound Advice / Does My Child Have ADHD? An expert shares the common signs and symptoms

REAL MOMS 15 Mom Next Door / Kate Weiser The Dallas chocolatier on finding the sweet spot in motherhood ➽ ABOVE // Kids are noisy, needy and nonstop. Here’s how to cope with the sensory overload.

7 SPECIAL SECTIONS MOM APPROVED 48 Mom-Approved OB-GYNs, Midwives and Fertility Specialists Women’s health providers who get local moms’ stamp of approval

ISTOCK (2); COURTESY OF JENNIE PEAK PHOTOGRAPHY

IB & MONTESSORI 20 Good To Know Key figures in International Baccalaureate and Montessori education

ON THE COVER

18 Briefs / Fave 5 Kate Weiser’s fave comfort food, self-care, and thumbs-up from Oprah

PLAYBOOK 36 Things To Do 30 Family fun events in February and March 41 Family Fun / Sweet Stops Old-fashioned candy stores at historic squares

COLUMNS 4 Hello / Same But Different No two kids—or moms—are the same words Amanda Collins Bernier 54 Dad Amongst Dudes / Game On Taking your kids to a sporting event never goes how you envision words Josh Farnsworth

Cover kid: Harms, 2, of Dallas Photography: Nick Prendergast Hair/makeup: Gary Parson / Kim Dawson Agency DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

hello / E D I T O R ’ S N O T E

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T TOOK MERE DAYS after having my second baby to understand the saying, ‘no two kids are the same.’ From the start, pretty much the only thing my two boys had in common was their last name, and everything I thought I’d mastered the first time around went out the window when it came to the second. Indeed, every baby—every child—is different. And motherhood? That’s not one-size-fits-all either. But while we all experience parenthood differently, there are common threads that weave in and out of almost all our journeys—shared understanding, joys and troubles. The things that you only really get once you have children. Never was this more apparent to me than when writing about how overstimulating motherhood can feel. When I approached other moms to get their take on the topic—to ask, was this something they experienced too—the response was unanimous. “One thousand percent,” said one mom. “I don’t remember the last time I didn’t feel overstimulated,” said another. As experts in our feature story share—and as you likely already know—sensory overload is extremely common in parenting, and it can lead to anger, burnout and even relationship issues. Turn to page 24 for more on how you’re not alone in this part of motherhood along with strategies for coping when you’re at your wits’ end. We take a look at some kids’ mental health matters in this issue too—from how social emotional learning impacts the well-being of even the youngest children to the signs to look out for when it comes to ADHD. And then there’s the fun stuff: A Playbook chock full of things to do this February and March ranging from dinosaur displays to princess sing-alongs, monster trucks, Globetrotters, butterflies and Bluey. Truly, there’s something for everyone—after all, no two kids are the same.

Happy reading,

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

ABOVE // Amanda Collins Bernier with her sons Max and Owen.

PUBLISHER/ A D V E R T I S I N G D I R E C TO R Joylyn Niebes A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R / E D I TO R I N C H I E F Lauren Niebes E D I TO R I A L Managing Editor Amanda Collins Bernier Contributing Writers Pamela Hammonds Katelin Walling D I G I TA L Digital Manager/ Publishing Coordinator Susan Horn Web + Calendar Editor Elizabeth Smith ART Contributing Designer Sean Parsons ADVERTISING Account Executives Alison Davis Nancy McDaniel Advertising Coordinator Emily McDaniel A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Business Manager Leah Wagner HOW TO CONTACT US: Address: Phone: Fax: Online:

P.O. Box 2269 Addison, Texas 75001 800/638-4461 or 972/447-9188 972/447-0633 dfwchild.com

DFWChild is published bimonthly by Lauren Publications, Inc. DFWChild is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. Additional or back copies are available for $4 per copy at the offices of Lauren Publications, Inc. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. DFWChild is ©2024 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited. DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

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SOCIAL STUDIES An early childhood guide to social and emotional learning at home WORDS KATELIN WALLING

HEN YOU FIRST BROUGHT your little bundle of joy home, did you begin to daydream about who they’ll grow up to be? Will they have confidence, self-worth and empathy? Will they become happy, thoughtful, successful adults? This life you hope for boils down to developing social and emotional skills—things that in childhood look like making friends, sharing toys and recognizing feelings. And through social emotional learning (SEL), children start acquiring these skills earlier than you might think. But what, exactly, is social emotional learning? Simply put, think of SEL as the building blocks of emotional intelligence, which encompasses the soft skills that are needed for success at all ages in life. In fact, Sara Loftin, a clinical therapist with Children’s Health in Dallas, says SEL is “important because it’s how a child becomes a functioning member of society.”

ISTOCK

MILESTONES AND REINFORCING SEL

The reality is the early years are most vital in developing these skills, Loftin says—90% of a child’s brain is developed before they enter DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

noted / S O C I A L S T U D I E S kindergarten, and it triples in size by the time they turn 3. While each child develops at a different pace, here are the social milestones you can typically expect in early years, and how to foster these skills at home. NEWBORN TO 1: BUILDING CONNECTION AND TRUST

This stage of your baby’s SEL is all about connection, attachment, and building trust, particularly with their parents and caregivers, Loftin says. Newborns communicate their feelings with their body and crying and respond to your touch. Around 6 months, a more reciprocal relationship starts to develop; your baby begins to smile back at and interact with you. Around 9 months, they begin to experience separation and stranger anxiety, which is a positive sign of attachment. Reinforcing SEL: Respond to baby’s cues and cries. “What you’re doing is building that trust and safety in their brain that, when I am crying, someone’s going to come to me,” says Tiffany Self, a professional learning partner at Big Thought, a Dallas-based nonprofit that works with youth to develop SEL. You can also mirror their emotions by reflecting feelings with words or facial expressions. AGE 2: DEVELOPING INDEPENDENCE AND DEFIANCE

At 2, your tot starts to develop autonomy and learns how they’re able to influence their environment, Self says. They may insist on pouring their own milk. Perhaps they resist you putting on their shoes. If they roll the ball to you, will you roll it back to them? Two-year-olds also start to become defiant. While it may be frustrating, it would be a red flag if they didn’t start to test boundaries. Your tot is also beginning to be more aware of the people around them and will start to engage in parallel play. Reinforcing SEL: Allow your kiddo to assist you with different tasks around the home. If your little one wants to help fold laundry, let them—yes, even if it’s not done how you would do it. Take a moment to breathe and remember that letting your kiddo help, even if you have to redo it later when they’re not in the room, builds self-motivation and self-esteem. To help manage defiance and set boundaries, Loftin suggests using ACT: acknowledge your little one’s feelings, communicate the limit and target alternatives to teach them how to express feelings appropriately. For example, “I know you are so mad, but that book is not for throwing. You can choose to stomp your feet or clench your fists to show me how mad you are.” AGE 3: GROWING INDEPENDENCE AND BIG FEELINGS

The prefrontal cortex, where emotion regulation happens, grows a lot between ages 2-3, so 3-year-olds experience a lot of big feelings, 8

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

Loftin says. Since toddlers can’t think rationally or regulate emotions, they’re often in a state of fight or flight, which is when tantrums occur. Kids this age search for more independence. If they see Mom writing out a grocery list, they may scribble their own list. But as they try to do things and find they have trouble, like they can’t open a granola bar at snack time, they easily get frustrated. Reinforcing SEL: Continue to reflect your little one’s feelings and set boundaries using ACT. To help prepare your kiddo for friendships, encourage sharing and taking turns, even if it doesn’t happen all the time. If they scribble out their own list or they want to help around the house, acknowledge what they’re doing and keep letting them practice so they can eventually learn how to do it correctly, Self recommends. AGE 4: BECOMING MORE SOCIAL, BUILDING CREATIVITY

Four-year-olds start to become more social. They also engage with more imaginary play but may confuse fantasy with reality. Kids this age also start to implement what they’ve learned in the years before, Loftin says. Reinforcing SEL: When it comes to play time, be present, let your little one lead and join them in their fantasy world to foster their creativity. It’s also a good idea to schedule play time with other children or enroll your child in one or two age-appropriate extracurricular activities so they can practice their social skills. Just be sure to not overschedule your kiddo. AGE 5: BECOMING MORE COOPERATIVE, BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS

Loftin says children are typically a bit more cooperative at age 5, though not always. They also tend to seek out friendships a bit more at this age and may start exhibiting different behaviors in an effort to please their friends. Five-year-olds also begin to know the difference between fantasy and reality, desire new experiences, and really start to show what they’re learning. Reinforcing SEL: Continue to help your kiddo with identifying, managing and expressing their feelings, as well as setting boundaries. This is especially important as they start to build friendships. It’s also a good idea to reinforce their positive behaviors and characteristics by pointing them out. One final tip from Loftin that applies no matter what age your child? Be a thermostat, not a thermometer. “Whereas a thermometer takes on the temperature around them and rises with the temperature, a thermostat really sets the temperature in the room and helps the child come down to where you are. So we want to reflect their feelings, but we want to remain cool, calm and collected and not take those feelings on,” she says.

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noted / B Y T H E N U M B E R S

HEART SMART A look at kids’ cardiovascular health

COMPILED BY AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

23,000 THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS RECOMMENDS ALL CHILDREN BE SCREENED FOR CARDIAC RISK AT WELL VISITS AT LEAST EVERY 3 YEARS

50%

Of youth stricken by sudden cardiac arrest reported no symptoms or family heart history

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

MINUTES The amount of time per day children should spend in moderate to vigorous activity for optimal heart health

The number of children who suffer cardiac arrest each year, with 70% of those taking place at home, school, or on a sports field

2 TO 5%

American children have hypertension, or high blood pressure Children and adolescents should have their cholesterol checked at least once between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21

THE NUMBER OF STEPS IN HANDS-ONLY CPR (LEARN IT AT CPR.HEART.ORG)

AHA’S LIFE’S ESSENTIAL 8 FOR BETTER CARDIAC HEALTH: 1. Diet 2. Exercise 3. Nicotine exposure 4. Sleep

5. Weight 6. Cholesterol 7. Blood sugar 8. Blood pressure

SOURCES: AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION, CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF CHICAGO, CDC, PARENT HEART WATCH, AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS; ISTOCK (4)

THE MONTH SYNONYMOUS with love is the perfect time to consider the heart—and we’re not talking about the candy kind. February is Heart Month, and for parents, a good time to think about their child’s cardiovascular health. The majority of kids and teens in the U.S. have poor heart health scores, according to a 2022 study in the journal Circulation. In the findings, fewer than 30% of people ages 2 to 19 received high scores for heart health using criteria in an American Heart Association (AHA) assessment tool, Life’s Essential 8. Most kids scored lowest in the area of diet. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women, but prevention can start in childhood. From proper nutrition to regular exercise, there are several lifestyle changes that can help protect your child’s heart health. Here are some matters of the heart to consider.

ART Break! Join us at the Modern for ART Break 2023!

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Take an ART Break during spring break, March 11–15. Join us for fun, hands-on, creative activities designed for the whole family to enjoy together—every day 11 am–3 pm.

Free Spring Break Monday and Friday Monday, March 11, and Friday, March 15, it’s FREE for ALL at the Modern. Admission for kids under 18 is free every day. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth 3200 Darnell Street Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817.738.9215

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noted / A S K A N E X P E R T

SOUND ADVICE

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DOES MY CHILD HAVE ADHD?

THE EXPERT: Dr. James Norcross Pediatric Psychologist and Division Director at Children’s Health, Dallas; childrens.com

Q: “I think my elementary-age child may have ADHD. What are the warning signs? Where would I get a diagnosis?” A: It isn’t uncommon for parents of elementary-aged children to become concerned about a potential attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis, more commonly known as ADHD. Hyperactivity, impulsivity and lack of focus in children, traits that frequently concern parents, can be related to age or maturity, but they can also be linked to ADHD. So what are specific warning signs and symptoms parents can be on the lookout for? Common signs of ADHD include: • Trouble sitting still • Difficulty following directions • Poor planning and organizational skills • Disruptive in a classroom setting (e.g., talking, leaving seat) • Forgetful (due to inconsistent attention) • Hard time keeping hands to oneself • Impulsive behavior To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must present in multiple settings, such as school, home, and sports teams, and be ongoing for at least 6 months as well as impairing a child’s ability to function. ADHD can coexist with other learning disabilities and mental health conditions, or symptoms presenting as ADHD might be masking one or more of those issues. This is why having a

child evaluated and diagnosed by a qualified professional is critical. The CDC recently reported that approximately 9.4% of U.S. children between the ages of 2 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD in their lifetime. If your child is diagnosed, they are not alone, and wider spread awareness of the condition has led some schools to implement screening programs in addition to pediatricians who often offer these screenings. If signs of ADHD or another learning disability or mental health diagnosis are indicated, the child would then most likely be referred to a pediatric psychologist to confirm that diagnosis. So, what should families expect when they consult with a physician? First, the child will undergo an evaluation. This consists of the child and parents talking with a doctor about their concerns and may include rating forms for parents and teachers to complete to provide additional information. If there are concerns about learning differences, further assessment by a psychologist may be recommended to check for underlying learning disabilities or conditions. An elementary-aged child diagnosed with ADHD may find educational environments particularly challenging due to overstimulation in a classroom environment. But with the proper accommodations, which the Americans with Disabilities Act requires schools to provide, all students can thrive. We typically see these accommodations split into two buckets: behavioral classroom management and organizational training. Tools such as color-coded notebooks, fidget devices, checklists, reward systems and timers can all be tools used to support the success of ADHD students. Every child is unique, and the same goes for every child diagnosed with ADHD. I want families and caregivers to know that this disorder is not a limitation for their child and that with the proper support that child can be just as successful as his or her classmates. Have a parenting question you’d like our experts to answer? Message us on Instagram @dfwchildmag or email editorial@dfwchild.com.

COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S HEALTH; ISTOCK

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

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spring break at the carter TUESDAY, MARCH 12–FRIDAY, MARCH 15 1–4 p.m. | All ages welcome! | FREE Are you ready for a break? Spend the week with us as we think outside the box! Enjoy free, fun-filled events with exciting activities throughout the week including gallery games, art making, creativity challenges, and more.

LEARN MORE

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

real moms.

RÉSUMÉ TITLE

Owner of Kate Weiser Chocolates AGE

EDUCATION

California Culinary Academy LIVES IN

Carrollton HAILS FROM

Kansas City, KS SPOUSE

Daniel Flusche, VP, Financial Counseling at The Ayco Company CHILDREN

Daughter Juliette, 4 months WHERE TO CONNECT

Instagram @officialkwchocolate

KATE WEISER

➽

mom next door /

The Dallas chocolatier on how work-life balance evolved after welcoming her daughter, Juliette.

Finding the sweet spot in motherhood INTERVIEW AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

PHOTOGRAPH NICK PRENDERGAST

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

real moms / M O M N E X T D O O R

N A SUNNY SATURDAY AFTERNOON, Kate Weiser and her 4-month-old daughter Juliette, dressed in matching pink outfits, pose for a photo shoot in her Carrollton home. It’s a little different than her look the day before: A blue hairnet, a wearable breast pump, pushing crates across a warehouse. “Instagram versus reality,” she jokes. “Working mom life is wild.” Weiser is the renowned chocolatier behind some of Dallas’s most decadent desserts. At just 26 she opened Kate Weiser Chocolates at Trinity Groves, a move she considers kismet. A decade later, she’s grown the business to include locations at NorthPark Center and The Shops at Clearfork, partnerships with Neiman Marcus, and earned a nod from Oprah. In motherhood, Weiser’s journey has been bittersweet. In 2022, she lost her first child, a son, Theodore, at just three months old. Now, months after welcoming her daughter Juliette, she talks about finding new joy.

TO CULINARY ARTS? KW: I always loved cooking and particularly baking when I was young. I was 10 or 11 when I started collecting pastry cookbooks and I would read them instead of other books to fall asleep. I loved the recipes. To me it was like magic—really, it’s chemistry—but back then it was magic how bread would rise. I loved experimenting; my parents would buy ingredients and I would go to town on the weekends.

dfwchild.com/newsletter

SCAN ME

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

HOW DID THAT LEAD TO CHOCOLATE? I started as a pastry chef in Kansas City. Then when moved down to Dallas in 2009, I had a lot of jobs—a morning baker, a cheese monger—just really trying to get in somewhere. One of those odd jobs was at Chocolate Secrets in Oak Lawn. I was like, ‘I’ve never done chocolate, but I’d love to give it a shot.’ And the owner hired me and I basically failed every day at making chocolate for the next year-and-ahalf (laughs). Every night I would go home after just totally screwing everything up and say, ‘I need to figure this out.’ I would try to find videos but there really wasn’t anything out there. So I kind of learned on my own, and I fell in love with it. Working with something that challenging just lit a fire in me. WHAT MADE YOU VENTURE OFF ON YOUR OWN? A friend of mine showed me the Trinity Groves incubator concept. They were looking

for unknown chefs with a vision or concept. I reached out on a whim, not thinking anything would come of it. They took a meeting with me, which I thought was like the meeting where you get weeded out. But it was the meeting. I didn’t have a business plan written out, I just had what I wanted to do in my heart—and some chocolates. And they said, ‘Yeah, let’s do it.’ Walking out of that meeting was just one of those moments—I had goosebumps. I sat in my car for like five minutes with my hands on the steering wheel, just looking out and thinking, did my life just change forever? LET’S TALK ABOUT BEING A MOM. DID YOU ALWAYS WANT KIDS? Oh yes. I have FOMO—fear of missing out! I always knew I didn’t want to miss out on that life experience. WE’RE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS OF THEODORE. CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT HIM? My son passed away at 3 months old. He was born with genetic abnormalities, which we did not know about at all during pregnancy. We were completely blindsided when he was born—he passed every test, every sonogram, and then all of a sudden it was just chaos. He was in the NICU for almost his entire life. I have pictures of him sleeping in the NICU and me pumping while working on my laptop. This company saved me in so many ways, just helping me cope in those moments. My team was so wonderful. You really don’t forget how people treat you during that time. THAT EXPERIENCE MUST MAKE WELCOMING JULIETTE SO COMPLEX. To be a bereaved mom is an experience that isn’t talked about enough. We have our beautiful baby girl but there is always that void. You can’t fill that void. We got pregnant with Juliette about eight months after Theo passed and that decision was based on the fact that once we knew this type of love, we had to have it

COURTESY OF KATE WEISER CHOCOLATES

DFWCHILD: WHAT DREW YOU

“ONCE WE KNEW THIS TYPE OF LOVE, WE HAD TO HAVE IT BACK IN OUR LIVES.” back in our lives. There was no question that we were going to try again and have hope that it was going to be better this time. This time my postpartum anxiety has been through the roof. Constantly worried about losing her and the nightmare situations. I know I’d be a different mom had I not gone through what we went through with Theo, but also, I’m just so grateful to have met him, to have known him. WHAT’S SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT MOM LIFE? I was one of those naive moms who thought that I’d have time to do anything. I thought on my maternity leave that I could spend time reading. I was like, ‘What a great opportunity for me to read about business and educate myself.’ Was I insane? (laughing) I was surprised by how much time these little ones take. I had no idea it took her 30 minutes to feed. With Theo, there were nurses caring for him around the clock and I was just trying to hold him at any moment. It’s different when you’re a mom with a baby at home. Wow, it’s a lot! HOW ARE YOU FINDING BALANCE AS A WORKING MOM? Work is great, my job is great. I love my company, but my family comes first. I’m so lucky that I can put a hard stop on things, like ‘I’m not going to do this because I’m going to go to my kid’s play.’ I’m lucky to be able to say no to something because it would make me miss out on something else with Juliette. But I also want her to feel like she’s part of this business. I would love it if she was very familiar with my company and just feels like she’s grown up inside a chocolate shop. WHAT TRAITS DO YOU HOPE JULIETTE GETS FROM YOU? I hope she’s bold. I hope she goes after it, whatever it is. And I hope that she can do things scared—that she still says yes to doing something even when she’s scared, because that has really helped me in my life. And if she likes making chocolate, I won’t be mad at that. DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

real moms / B R I E F S

FAVE FIVE

Kate Weiser on her favorite comfort food, self-care and the thumbs-up from Oprah

C A R L TH E S N OWM A N

Weiser says creating the iconic Carl the Snowman—picked in 2018 as one of Oprah Winfrey’s “Favorite Things”—is one of the peaks of her career, but not for why you might think. “When customers tell me they melt a Carl every year with their kid and it has become a holiday tradition, that’s so rewarding. Now I can see kids who have grown up with this, and it’s become almost like a core memory of theirs,” she says. “That is the coolest thing that I could be part of, especially now that I have my own daughter. When we melt our first Carl together, I’m going to bawl my eyes out. A full circle moment.” CARL THE SNOWMAN // $35; kateweiserchocolate.com

COM FO RT FO O D

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

What does a chocolatier indulge in? Weiser says she eats this on an almost nightly basis (and especially when pumping): “I take some toast, spread a little Jiffy peanut butter on top and then chocolate chips—like the ones you’d put in chocolate chip cookies—and a little salt.”

G A M E N I G HT

Weiser says she and her husband, Daniel, are “big puzzlers” and put together many while waiting on baby. When they do head out for a date night, they usually hit a local restaurant, but for a change of pace they like Activate, an active gaming facility in Plano.

E A R LY MO R N I N G S E LF- C A R E

ACTIVATE // 5013 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, 469/209-6545; playactivate.com/dallas

MOM MY MU S T-H AV E

Weiser's top mom tool is a nasal aspirator—or in other terms, a snotsucker. In fact, she has four of different types. “I wanted to try them all. I love getting those boogers out,” she laughs. “It makes me feel like I’m super mom.” Which one works best? Forget the electric version—the classic manual NoseFrida, as gross as it may be, is the winner, she says. 18

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

“I wake up at 5am to pump and right after I go to the gym and I lift heavy weights. That is self-care for me,” says Weiser. “It’s the way I clear my mind; I can work through problems while I’m doing it. The endorphins get my energy up. It’s really helped me through postpartum depression. It’s not even so much about the results, it’s more, I was able to accomplish this task by 7am. It’s a great way to make you feel in your own power.”

COURTESY OF KATE WEISER CHOCOLATES (2); ISTOCK (2)

INTERVIEW

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE & MONTESSORI GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GOOD TO KNOW Key figures in IB & Montessori education COMPILED BY AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

DUCATION OPTIONS ABOUND IN TEXAS, and particularly in DFW. Here we take a closer look at two of them—International Baccalaureate (IB) and Montessori schools. Learn some of the facts and benefits behind these education philosophies.

TEXAS

TRAITS

IN IB SCHOOLS’ LEARNER PROFILE 1. Inquirer 2. Knowledge 3. Thinker 4. Communicator 5. Principled 6. Open-minded 7. Caring 8. Risk-taker 9. Balanced 10. Reflective STUDENTS EARNING AN IB DIPLOMA QUALIFY FOR 24 HOURS OF CREDIT AT ANY PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN TEXAS 20

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

184

THE NUMBER OF IB WORLD SCHOOLS IN TEXAS

3 HOURS

THE TYPICAL UNINTERRUPTED “WORK CYCLE” IN THE MONTESSORI EDUCATIONAL APPROACH

10% THE NUMBER OF MONTESSORI SCHOOLS IN THE U.S. THAT ARE PUBLIC

34% THE GROWTH

IN IB PROGRAMS OFFERED WORLDWIDE BETWEEN 2018 AND 2022 MONTESSORI CLASSROOMS ARE MIXED-AGE, WITH STUDENTS IN

3-YEAR

GROUPINGS

500,000 THE ESTIMATED NUMBER OF CHILDREN CURRENTLY ENROLLED IN MONTESSORI SCHOOLS IN THE U.S.

SOURCES: AMERICAN MONTESSORI SOCIETY, FORBES, INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE ORGANIZATION, TEXAS IB SCHOOLS; ISTOCK

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE & MONTESSORI GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE & MONTESSORI G U I D E

Are you looking for a school that offers a real-world, hands-on approach? Get to know these institutions nurturing lifelong independent learners.

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE AND MONTESSORI IN DALLAS ISD

DALLAS ISD INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Dallas ISD is home to eleven authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools serving a vast array of students in grades PK-12. Expansion is on the horizon with one of our newest candidate schools Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III Global Preparatory Academy, serving grades 6-12 located on the Paul Quinn College campus where every 6th grade student receives a college letter of acceptance.

DALLAS ISD MONTESSORI Dallas ISD Montessori schools apply the principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori to create and sustain a safe, supportive environment that offers rich opportunities to meet the academic, physical, social and emotional needs of all Dallas ISD Montessori students. Dallas ISD has Montessori schools in North Dallas, South Dallas, East Dallas, West Dallas, and Downtown. No matter where you live in Dallas we have a Montessori campus for you.

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE DALLAS ISD MONTESSORI

DALLAS ISD IB

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Celebrating our 53rd year!

Celebrating our 42nd year!

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CHARACTER DAY-BY-DAY

Contact us to discover more about authentic Montessori education for your pre-school aged child. Montessori Children’s House and School 7335 Abrams Rd. | Dallas, TX 75231 214.348.6276 | mchsdallas.org AMI Accredited

Montessori & IB School Community

DFWChild.com Directory Helping parents successfully navigate the childhood years is kind of our thing. Explore our not-so-secret weapon, the online directory, at dfwchild.com/directory.

Serving Students & Their Families 12 Months - Grade 12

• IMPORTANT UPDATES • EXPANDED Toddler Program (12-18 mos) Learn More: westwoodschool.org/academics/toddler Limited Openings >>> Schedule a Tour

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THE WESTWOOD SCHOOL 972-239-8598 | WestwoodSchool.org DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

MOM MOM MOM

Surviving the sensory overload that is parenting

MOM

WORDS AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

T’S SUNDAY EVENING and there’s a list of things to get ready for the week running through my head. Dinner is about to boil over on the stove, and Bluey is blaring in the background. The dog circles my feet, wanting to be fed. From the living room, I hear the toy box dump out. I peek in and see clutter scattered everywhere. Tiny footsteps thunder down the hallway and my 3-year-old appears at my side, tugging on my pantleg. “Mommy look,” he whines, poking me. “Look, Mommy. Mom!” I feel like I’m about to scream. One more sound, one more touch will send me over the edge. I’ll snap, hiss, rage. And then, cue the mom guilt. In these moments of everyday overwhelm, I’m not the parent I want to be. I’m impatient and short tempered. I feel like I’m going to crawl out of my skin. But this reaction isn’t about being an angry mom, experts tell me. It’s about too much simply being too much. “It’s not actually an anger problem,” says Annia Palacios, a licensed professional counselor who specializes in working with moms at Fort Worth-based Tightrope Therapy. “We can often trace that back to being completely overstimulated. And that is so prevalent in motherhood.”

of if something is dangerous,” Palacios explains. “In parenthood there’s an additional responsibility for our senses because we are literally responsible for keeping this other little human being alive.” As parents, we lose a degree of autonomy over our bodies and senses. Add to this the incessant stimuli that come with kids—and it’s almost impossible to not feel overstimulated. THE COMMON TRIGGERS AND HOW THEY SHOW UP

Three of the most typical triggers for parents are auditory, physical and visual stimuli (think clutter). But it’s not always chaos that can be too much; even the pleasant sounds of kids laughing and playing, or gentle touch can put us over the edge. For local mom Stacie Torres, the nonstop noise of daily life is most overstimulating, though that’s not necessarily yelling or whining. Just hearing her name called over and over all day eventually

response is to go into fight, flight or freeze mode. This might show up as irritability or anger; snapping at your kids or partner or feeling like you’re about to explode. Sometimes it can lead to feeling so overwhelmed that you can’t focus or concentrate, while other times, you might seek distraction. “Often people will either go to control or to chaos,” says Morgan Meyers, a licensed professional counselor at East Dallas Therapy. “Think about it like a river, and life has waves and twists and turns. But when it gets to be too much, you go to the banks of one or the other. Chaos would be, the house is a complete wreck and you’re sitting on the couch on Instagram, you’re like, ‘I can’t do it.’ Control would be like cleaning everything in sight, even when you’re tired, even when you need to rest or eat, you can’t stop.” Constant overstimulation can impact your relationships too. You might feel like you don’t even want to be around your kids, or that you’re not the parent you want to be. And the experience of being over-touched can often lead to intimacy issues. “It’s like, after all I’ve dealt with throughout the day, now my partner wants to have some one-on-one time? And that touching me or even giving me a hug, even something gentle, is the last thing I want,” says Palacios. “A common experience in motherhood is the overstimulation begins to impact our romantic relationship too.”

AS PARENTS, WE LOSE A DEGREE OF AUTONOMY OVER OUR BODIES AND SENSES. ADD TO THIS THE WHY IS MOM LIFE OVERSTIMULATING? What does it mean to be overstimulated? INCESSANT STIMULI THAT Basically, it’s sensory overload. It happens when you have too much sensory input—stimuli COME WITH KIDS — AND bombarding your five senses—which becomes IT’S ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO overwhelming. It’s that feeling that there are 50 tabs open in your brain, and instead of NOT NOT FEEL FEEL OVERSTIMULATED OVERSTIMULATED. being able to take in one thing at a time, you essentially just shut down. “We all have a sensory baseline in our bodies,” Palacios explains. “Overstimulation comes from a place where our senses are completely overloaded—with information, with sound, with touch—and they’re not able to continue to function in the way we would need them and expect them to.” The threshold for what we can handle varies from person to person—some moms might have a smaller sensory “bucket” that overflows more quickly. Parents with attention deficit hyperactive disorder, sensory processing issues or other neurodivergence might experience overstimulation more deeply. But even without those predispositions, sensory overload is just part of parenthood, and for many, having kids is the first experience with this daily tax on the nervous system. Ever been in the shower and you swear you can hear the baby crying even though you know they are actually sleeping? That’s because in parenthood, your senses are more activated. “From a biological standpoint, our body is designed to respond to our senses as a safety mechanism, to be able to have that discernment 26

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

leads to sensory overload. “I’m a homeschool mom to two elementary boys. I absolutely love it and wouldn’t change it for the world but it’s the constant noise and nonstop ‘Mom,’” she says. “It’s like my brain is screaming.” Other parents struggle with feeling “touched out”—a visceral aversion to physical touch. This is especially common for moms of younger children who may spend hours a day with a baby latched to their breast or a toddler who wants to be constantly held. “Whether it’s a baby nursing, a toddler tapping on your shoulder or even the dog rubbing up against the side of your leg. A partner that’s trying to give you a hug. If we are being lightly touched all day long, that can literally have your skin feel like it’s crawling sometimes,” says Palacios. Parenting a 2-year-old often leaves Alecia Pence, an area mom, feeling touched out. “Today my toddler was climbing all over me, constantly calling my name, following me everything in close proximity, touching me with dirty hands, sticking stuff on my face,” she says. A flood of sensory stimuli maxes out the nervous system, and the body’s natural

ARE YOU OVERSTIMULATED?

Meyers says she sees many moms struggling with sensory overload, though they don’t always name it as such. “I don’t know if they use that word, but definitely overwhelm, brain fog, jumbled thinking,” she says. “Recognizing it first is important, because I don’t think a lot of moms know that’s what they’re feeling, they just think they’re pissed off.” So how do you know if you’re reacting to feeling overstimulated? And what’s triggering that feeling? Meyers says start by paying closer attention to your body throughout the day. “Where do you feel calm and what point do you start to get tense?” she says. “Tension is your body bracing itself against something—chaos, or noise or an assault by a Nerf gun. Starting with that—your own body awareness—what’s going on when you’re tense?” Palacios suggests a similar playback of your day and determining where you’d put yourself on a scale of 1 to 10. One, 2 and 3 are calm cool and collected, the baseline of where you’d like to stay. At 4, 5 and 6, you’re feeling activated and a little

overwhelmed. “Seven is our tipping point, it Limit the input: What your body really sends us into 8, 9 and 10, where we rage, we lose needs when you’re overstimulated is less, so it, we are just so tapped out and overwhelmed look for ways to reduce sensory stimulation. that we’re no longer able to communicate our Try noise-reducing earplugs which limit the needs and we just snap,” she says. This is where volume around you, but still allow you to hear we realize our senses are maxed out, but the your children. Over-touched? Put the kids in overload started happening much earlier. “We the stroller and go for a walk or sit them in a want to recognize that at 4, 5 and 6. Because highchair. And when there’s too much going on we don’t actually go from 1 to 10 in a snap, our for you to process, Palacios suggests leaning or body is building up on that scale. We need more sitting with your back pressed against a wall. awareness to notice that.” “This cuts the experience From there, you can of taking in sensory input determine what happened from a 360 perspective. in your environment that Now it’s cut in half, just READS FOR triggered you. Were there what’s in front of you,” SELF-REGULATION overlapping sounds? Were the she explains. “Then put Check out these kids crawling all over you? your hands underneath books for more on Were you overloaded by mess the bottom of your overstimulation in and clutter? All of the above? ribcage [and press]. parenthood, tips and “Think about what information A little bit of pressure coping strategies. your senses were taking in on the body regulates before you felt so overwhelmed. the system.” The Angry Mom’s Guide Then ask yourself, have I eaten Reset your senses: “In to Self-Regulation anything today? Have I sat the same way that you’re by Emelie Delworth down? Have I had some water? overstimulated with your Break Free From Because all of that is input for our senses, you can regulate Reactive Parenting nervous system.” with your senses,” says by Laura Linn Knight Meyers. “Use the senses COPING WITH to bring the temperature The Highly SENSORY OVERLOAD back down. Use your Sensitive Parent Kids are noisy, needy and body as a shortcut to by Elaine N. Aron nonstop so it’s likely that calming.” This could be Too Loud, Too Bright, as a parent you’ll deal with something like drinking a Too Fast, Too Tight overwhelming sensory cup of hot tea, and really by Sharon Heller stimuli on an everyday paying attention to the basis. When you’ve reached physical moment—how your max, try these coping does it taste and how strategies in the moment. does it feel? Walking

PREVIOUS SPREAD: ISTOCK (3); PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SEAN PARSONS; THIS SPREAD: ISTOCK

outside barefoot, drinking a cup of ice-cold water or chewing something crunchy or even gum can help reset your nervous system. Take a breather: It may sound cliché, but focusing on your breath can help you through a moment of overwhelm. Even better? Take some time—even just a few minutes—alone to just breathe. Go to the bathroom, shut the door for two minutes and catch your breath. Longer term, think about how you can carve what you need into your day, and how you can avoid the most triggering situations. Palacios calls this “bubble wrap”—bigger picture, preventative strategies that can help reduce your likelihood of feeling overstimulated throughout the day. “For me it’s bathtime,” she says. “It’s at the end of the day when the nervous system is already doing a lot and the bath just echoes, it’s loud, there’s water splashing on me, I’m trying to wrangle and wrestle a toddler. And so we’ve come to a place where my husband gives almost all of the baths unless I absolutely have to. That’s my bubble wrap strategy.” These solutions will look different in every family. In the systems within your household, think about how you can set up your environment and your day to reduce the amount of stimulation you get and give your mind and body what it needs. Make sure your kids are also getting what they need in terms of release and regulation. Often, this means building in more time for unstructured play. “When the kids feel pent up, it creates this kind of intensity in the house,” says Meyers. “So where in your backyard or your neighborhood or in your house can the kids run wild for an hour, and you just let them? Give yourself a minute and also teach them that they can regulate themselves.” And finally, remember that feeling overstimulated—like it’s all just too much sometimes—is a normal experience in parenthood. There’s no need to add feelings of guilt or shame on top of the overwhelm. “Many of us have this image where in motherhood we’re these calm, kind, nurturing people and that’s not always our full reality,” says Palacios. “We have moments where we’re overstimulated, we’re overwhelmed, we’re touched out by our kids. It can be this moment where we’re like, ‘This is everything I ever wanted to have this baby, how can I literally be trying to hide in the bathroom from my kids?’ Sometimes that’s a very hard experience to come to terms with. What we can offer ourselves is self-compassion—to know that this is common and normal and that it’s OK that I feel this way.” DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

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DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL GUIDE // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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CHARACTER DAY-BY-DAY

Montessori Lower School Community

12 MONTHS THROUGH GRADE 6

LEARN More: bit.ly/3vNao6P Limited Openings >>> Schedule a Tour SEE Video: “Hands-On Learning” westwoodschool.org/for-families

THE WESTWOOD SCHOOL 972-239-8598 | WestwoodSchool.org DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

EN TS

W C H I L D .C

FOR DAILY

playbook M

VI S

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

➽ Hang on tight! This snow tubing hill and more snow play activities are headed to Irving for the free Frost Fest on Saturday, February 17.

SLIDING INTO SPRING ➽ 30 FA M I LY F U N E V E N T S I N F E B R UA R Y & M A R C H

RIVER LEGACY NATURE CENTER, ARLINGTON

How exactly does wood wind up in our everyday products? This exhibition gives kids a wider view (the forest for the trees, if you will) by inviting them to do what they do best— play! Here kids can climb and crawl through a play place of logs and build a 36

playhouse with wood components. $10 adults; $7 children; under 3 free. 817/860-6752; riverlegacy.org PREHISTORIC ADVENTURES Through February 29

CRAYOL A EXPERIENCE PL ANO

For your kids who can’t get enough of dinosaurs, here they can play pale-

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

ontologist and artist by joining colorful projects at Crayola’s craft stations. They’ll make dino bookmarks, a realistic portrait of a dino eye, or model a T. rex from Magic Modeling dough. Included with admission: $25.99 online for 3 and older; $28.99 at the door. 469/642-2901; crayolaexperience.com/plano

DINOSAURS AROUND THE WORLD Through May 30 FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

See animatronic dinosaurs— including the mighty T. rex, triceratops, and many more of both the carnivore and herbivore variety—on display along the boardwalk. And that’s just the tip of the asteroid. While you’re there, starting on March 1,

keep an eye out for bronze living art sculptures by Seward Johnson and stop into the conservatory to see Butterflies in the Garden. Garden admission: $12 adults; $6 children; under 6 free. 817/463-4160; fwbg.org SEUSSICAL JR. February 3–18 CASA MAÑANA, FORT WORTH

Each and every one of Dr.

COURTESY OF CITY OF IRVING

FOREVER FOREST

Through February 10

Seuss’ characters are wild, but all of them together? It’s even wilder when they all come together for this live show on Casa Mañana’s children’s theater stage. See Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and more during these weekend shows, plus an ASL-interpreted show on February 9 and sensoryfriendly show on February 11. Tickets from $19. 817/3322272; casamanana.org

➽ DINOSAURS AROUND THE WORLD

TEXFEST March 2

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CARROLLTON

DISNEY PRINCESS: THE CONCERT February 9–10

WILL ROGERS AUDITORIUM, FORT WORTH

Broadway starlets who have performed as Jasmine, Belle and Nala are coming together for this live concert performing songs from many Disney films. Think of it as a best-of for Disney princesses, singing hits like “A Whole New World,” “Just Around the Riverbend,” “Part of Your World.” Tickets from $39.60. 817/665-6000; fwsymphony.org CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S CRYSTAL February 7–11 COMERICA CENTER, FRISCO

February 15–18

DICKIES ARENA, FORT WORTH

a fashion show and a really spectacular dragon dance. FREE 817/748-8400; visitsouthlaketexas.com HEARTS & NATURE February 10 ELM FORK NATURE CENTER, CARROLLTON

Ever wanted to try making pressed flowers? It’s easier than you think, and it makes for a heartfelt Valentine’s card too. Bring your whole family for this afternoon craft time pressing flowers, making cards and—coolest of all—capturing sun prints on special paper for a frameworthy gift. FREE 972/4663080; cityofcarrollton.com

OK, picture the already amazing circus acts, aerial feats and imaginative costuming that Cirque du Soleil is known HARLEM for—and then add in ice skatGLOBETROTTERS ing too. The worldFebruary 10 class company AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER, DALL AS explores this February 11 new frozen DICKIES ARENA, territory FORT WORTH for the first You miss every shot time in its you don’t take, 42nd origiwhich is why you nal producO ought to jump at the LE tion. Pricing IL'S chance to experience CRYSTAL varies. cirqueduthe exhibition basketsoleil.com/crystal ball game by the famous Globetrotters. Watch them SOUTHLAKE slam dunk and perform loads SPRING FESTIVAL more tricks on court during February 10 the show and, if you want, you SOUTHL AKE TOWN SQUARE can join the on the court too Coinciding with the Lunar with the pre-game Magic Pass New Year (on the zodiac and more on-court experienccalendar 2024 is the Year es. Regular tickets from $35. of the Dragon), this third 214/665-4797; 817/402-9000; annual fest honors eastern harlemglobetrotters.com and southeastern Asian cultures. This means you can ENGINEERS WEEK expect not only family activiFebruary 15–17 ties and food trucks but also FORT WORTH MUSEUM cultural performances, like OF SCIENCE & HISTORY ➽ CIRQUE D

COURTESY OF MATT BAKER; ROBERT DAY

Irish heritage fest. This year, you can see sheep herding in action by highly trained Border collies, step dancing, and enjoy a full roster of live music and activities for kids on the Urchin Street. $20 adults; $10 children; under 6 free. 214/821-4173; ntif.org

Kids are our future, and so is the technology they’ll create. This annual program encourages your kids to take an interest in engineering by introducing them to reallife engineers and the staff who will lead them in ageappropriate activities. Free with general admission: $16 adults; $12 children; under 3 free. 817/255-9300; fwmuseum.org FROST FEST February 17

LEVY EVENT PL AZA, IRVING

In light of the winter storm last month, consider this a redo but with none of the frozen pipes and only the fun stuff: a snow tubing hill and snow play area, bounce houses and more playtime inside a giant snow globe. And be sure to give a warm welcome to the kids manning their booths as part of the Children’s Entrepreneur Market (childrensentrepreneurmarket.com), a program that teaches kids how to run their own businesses. FREE 972/721-2501; cityofirving.org FAMILY DAY & READ-IN February 17 AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM, DALL AS

Join literacy activities hosted by The Dock Bookshop, an African American-owned bookstore in Fort Worth, and more kid-friendly activities, like crafts and a paint party, at the museum—all in celebration of Black History Month. And while you’re there, check out the newly designated historical marker for the Hall of Negro Life,

constructed for the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition. FREE 214/5659026; aamdallas.org KITE FEST February 24

Native Texans—and everyone else who got here as fast as they could—are welcome to join this free party on Texas Independence Day. Adults will especially appreciate the barbecue and beer garden, and for the kids: the crafts and lawn games. And for brave riders of all ages, the mechanical bull and a live longhorn. FREE 972/466-9808; cityofcarrollton.com/texfest MONSTER JAM March 2

AT&T STADIUM, ARLINGTON

FRISCO HERITAGE MUSEUM

Does your kid have a kite but hasn’t mastered flying it yet? No shame. Dust it off and join this Saturday afternoon event where you’ll learn how to launch your kite into the open skies. RSVP online. FREE 972/292-6500; playfrisco.org DALLAS BLOOMS February 24–April 8

DALL AS ARBORETUM

A day at the arboretum always makes for gorgeous photos, thanks to the thousands upon thousands of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and more flowering bulbs and trees. And this year, the arboretum provides an even more gorgeous backdrop thanks to the theme, “A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words,” offering larger-than-life living selfie walls for fun photo ops. $20 adults; $12 children; under 2 free. Additional $3 for Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. 214/515-6615; dallasarboretum.org/dallas-blooms NORTH TEXAS IRISH FESTIVAL March 1–3 FAIR PARK, DALL AS

Short of a weeklong international trip to the Green Isle (and that’s on our bucket list too), for now we’ll happily settle for a day at this annual

“I’d never try that in my car,” said no monster truck driver ever. A dozen of these daredevils are getting behind the wheel for this live show. You can meet them during the pit party or, for even more time on the in the dirt arena, the pre-pit party. Regular seats from $32. monsterjam.com FREE FIRST SATURDAYS March 2 NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER, DALL AS

We hope you’ve got this free monthly event programmed into your Google calendar. It’s worth going back again and again for your art-loving kids. Educators make visiting the sculpture center even more accessible and exciting with activities from 11am–2pm and free admission for everyone all day. FREE 214/242-5100; nashersculpturecenter.org BEETHOVEN LIVES UPSTAIRS March 9 BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

There’s a madman who lives upstairs, and it’s not the Phantom of the Opera. This family show by the Fort Worth Symphony introduces the famed composer’s music to kids in under an hour. $21 for adults; $11 for children 10 and under. Recommended for 6 and up. 817/665-6000; fwsymphony.org

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

playbook / T H I N G S T O D O FAMILY WEEKENDS March 9

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE March 23

Head to this grassy park, on the doorstep of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, for a flurry of free lawn games and activities. On this Saturday morning in March (and again on April 27), you can play a mini round of golf at the Reliant Putting Green, or let the kids get dolled up with face painting and temporary tattoos, or—the real draw— see the petting zoo. FREE 214/880-0202; attpac.org

Guess who’s back, back again, but for one performance only. Come treat your kids to this live show starring largerthan-life dino puppets. Run time is under an hour, plus a 15-minute post-show meet and greet with a dinosaur for all attendees. Recommended for 3 years and older. Tickets from $25.50. 214/880-0202; dinosaurworldlive.com

ANNIE March 14–17

WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE, DALL AS

Though groundhogs may or may not agree with her forecast, the sun will always come out tomorrow, according to Little Orphan Annie. Her positivity is the main reason this musical has endured through the decades. This live Broadway touring production is a long one with one intermission, so it’s best for older kids who can sit through the whole show. Tickets from $25. 214/880-0202; annietour.com

MAJESTIC THEATRE, DALL AS

EAGER TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE with your toddler or baby? You’ll find age-appropriate activities and entertainment for kids 4 and younger at these shows, activities and festivals.

FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT March 28 BETHANY L AKES PARK, ALLEN

Don’t hide your light under a bushel, use it to find Easter eggs! Parents, be sure to go online to register your child for a time slot by age group (this is open to 1- to 13-yearolds) and to bring your own baskets and flashlights to help your kids hunt for eggs under the moonlight. $8 for rec center members; $11 for nonmembers. 214/509-4700; allenparks.org DISNEY ON ICE March 28–31 DICKIES ARENA, FORT WORTH

AQUA EGG HUNT March 16

April 3–7

If you’re looking for an atypical way to celebrate Easter, here’s a splashy idea. Outfit the kids in their swimsuits and let them jump in Frisco’s indoor pool and grab for as many floating plastic eggs as they can catch in their mesh basket. Splash times are limited for space, so go online to sign up. 972/292-6500; playfrisco.org

Especially if your kids loved the new Wish movie, don’t miss this new show, Magic in the Stars, starring heroine Asha. But what your little kids will be most excited to know is that they get to meet Elsa from Frozen and Mirabel from Encanto during the preshow meet and greet, for an extra $55. Tickets from $25 for regular seats. disneyonice.com

FRISCO ATHLETIC CENTER

TINY TEXANS

COMERICA CENTER, FRISCO

➽ ANNIE

➽ DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE

ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY Through February 25

DALL AS CHILDREN’S THEATER

These two best friends have two very different ideas for how they want their new play to go. (Call it creative differences.) Hilarity ensues in this play made for kids 3 and up. Tickets from $20. For extra fun (and an extra $60), join the Play & Party fundraiser after the Feb. 24 matinee. You’ll get to meet the actors, join a dance party, and make up your own play. 214/7400051; dct.org STROLLER TOURS February 14 & March 13

DALL AS CONTEMPORARY

This edgy, noncollecting art museum (which means there’s always something new) relaunches its second Wednesday program for littles and expands the age range that’s welcome. Bring your littles up to 5 years old—stroller or no stroller—for an educator-led story time or supervised, age-appropriate activity and stroll through the galleries. FREE 214/821-2522; dallascontemporary.org DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE February 18

TEXAS TRUST CU THEATRE, GRAND PRAIRIE

In King for a Day, Daniel discovers what it’s like to rule over friends O the Owl, Miss Elaina, Katerina Kittycat, Prince Wednesday—and does so with kindness, no doubt. Bring your preschoolers to dance to “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” and

other new songs in this live show. Regular tickets from $29 but vary depending on what seats are available. 972/854-5076; danieltigerlive.com BLUEY’S BIG PLAY February 23–25

MAJESTIC THEATRE, DALL AS

March 23–24

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

Hey parents, if you love watching Bluey episodes just as much as your own preschooler does, you know what you’ve got to do. Reserve your tickets to see the Heelers live and in-person at this show. Also, run time only about 50 minutes, with no intermission, so it’s easier for your little one to enjoy too. Pricing varies; VIP packages available. events. bluey.tv LITTLE FARMER FRIDAYS March 8 HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM, PL ANO

Two- to 5-year-olds get exclusive time to go on a wagon ride around the historic farm and meet the livestock. We’re talking sheep, goats, ducks, shockingly adorable pigs, and a donkey named Poncho. It’s a preschoolers’ paradise. Join the come-and-go craft and activity stations, and then you’re welcome to stay after and explore. Ticket sales open February 1, and more dates are planned for the spring. $5 adults; $15 children; free for nonparticipating siblings under 2. 972/8810140; heritagefarmstead.org

F O R M O R E K I D - F R I E N D LY E N T E R T A I N M E N T E V E R Y D AY O F T H E W E E K , V I S I T O U R O N L I N E C A L E N DA R AT D F W C H I L D.CO M/C A L E N DA R.

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

COURTESY OF FRED ROGERS PRODUCTIONS & MILLS ENTERTAINMENT; EVAN ZIMMERMAN

SAMMONS PARK, DALL AS

D F W C H I L D I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H U T S O U T H W E S T E R N M E D I C A L C E N T E R

· HOW BIG IS BABY THIS WEEK? · WHAT CHANGES ARE HAPPENING WITH YOUR BODY? · HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOUR PELVIC FLOOR? · ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR A VBAC? ALL THOSE QUESTIONS, PLUS MANY MORE, ANSWERED IN AN EMAIL TAILORED TO YOUR CURRENT WEEK OF PREGNANCY

OH BABY! A Week-by-Week Guide to Your Pregnancy

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Family Fun 16 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES KIDS WILL LOVE

Amon Carter Museum of American Art cartermuseum.org 817/738-1933

Our family programs offer playful experimentation and unique opportunities for all families. This includes tips for grown-ups on how to help kids get to know art, classes for all ages, innovative workshops and family events! See ad on page 14.

AT&T Stadium Tours attstadium.com/tours 817/892-4626

AT&T Stadium tours appeal to people of all ages and interests. See the locker rooms, admire the works of art throughout the stadium and much more. With AT&T Stadium Tours, there's something for everyone!

City of Irving Frost Fest irvingevents.org 972/721-2501

This snowy, activity-packed event includes Little Spurs Snow-tubing Hills & Play Area, caricature art, face painters, balloon artists, free train rides, and a children’s market with 100+ entrepreneurs, vendors and crafts. See ad on page 13.

City of Roanoke, TX roanoketexas.com/343/fishing-in-the-park 817/491-2411

Fishing in the Park is a free family fishing event in Roanoke. The event will be held on March 2, 2024, from 9am–noon in Community Park, 201 Park Dr. See ad on page 13.

Clark Gardens Botanical Park clarkgardens.org/happenings/grow-at-clarkgardens.html • 940/682-4856

Grow at Clark Gardens returns for its third year. There is something for everyone during this month-long March festival. View the full festival calendar at clarkgardens.org. Don’t miss out on the fun March 16 and 30th!

Coppell Arts Center coppellartscenter.org 972/304-7047

Bring the whole family to experience Artrageous on March 1! It’s the only show where you can witness the fusion of live art, rock music and comedy, and all in one magical performance!

The Cove at The Lakefront® thecoveatthelakefront.com 214/618-2047

The Cove at The Lakefront® features year-round, indoor fun for the whole family! Splash around in one of our pools, float the lazy river or take a trip down one of our slides.

Dallas Arboretum dallasarboretum.org 214/515-6615

Enjoy family-friendly activities all year long. Make plans to visit the 8-acre Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, where science and fun become one. See ad on page 5.

The Dallas Opera dallasopera.org/seasons/2324season 214/443-1000

Good Stories + Good Music = Opera fun for the whole family. Join us for these special performances of The Billy Goats Gruff and Pépito. Ages 3+. Tickets $5. Buy both family shows—pay $4! See ad on page 5.

Fort Worth Stockyards fortworthstockyards.com 817/625-9715

Round up the kiddos for Spring Breakaway in the Stockyards, featuring family matinee rodeos, Cowtown Goes Green St. Patrick’s Celebration and Parade, Easter egg hunt, Grapevine Vintage Railroad excursions, the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze and more! See ad on the back cover.

Irving Archives and Museum irvingarchivesandmuseum.com 972/721-3700

Spark!Lab engages visitors in hands-on activities that combine STEM with art, history and creativity to explore the invention process and learn about the role of invention throughout history. Second Saturdays and every Sunday are free! See ad on page 13.

Kimbell Art Museum kimbellart.org 817/332-8451

Celebrate vacation time at the Kimbell Art Museum’s annual Spring Break Art Extravaganza March 12–15. Featuring free drop-in activities inspired by Kimbell masterpieces. The full schedule will be available March 1 at kimbellart.org. See ad on page 6.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth themodern.org 817/738-9215

Take an ART Break with family programming at the Modern while your children are on Spring Break, March 11–15. Get your creative energy flowing as you spend time in our exhibition galleries. See ad on page 11.

Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/296-9950

See Dallas from a whole new perspective at 470 feet! Enjoy 360-degree views, photo ops and family fun events during Spring Break. Visit reuniontower.com for more details. See ad on page 4.

River Legacy Nature Center riverlegacy.org 817/860-6752

Explore the wonders of nature at River Legacy Nature Center. Interact with our trail using the Discovery Trail app, learn while you play in the Discovery Room and visit our community festivals throughout the year! See ad on page 34.

Texas Ballet Theater texasballettheater.org 817/763-0207

Beauty and the Beast. Love conquers all. A hideous beast and a young maiden discover that love transcends and ultimately transforms in this classic tale. At Winspear Opera House and Bass Performance Hall this May. See ad on page 45.

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

playbook / F A M I L Y F U N Cajun. Don’t worry, you can try before committing to a full bag or tin. For Valentine’s, try the limited-edition Cupid’s Corn, a mix of cherry, watermelon and vanilla. But this store is so much more than popcorn—you’ll also find delectable truffles, fudge, and tubs of cotton candy in myriad flavors. Their candy kabobs? Wowza. // McKinney, 972/542-7605; momandpopcorn.com

THE CANDY BARREL

➽ ABOVE: Let your kids indulge in a sweet treat and take their pick from old-fashioned candies, ice cream or vintage sugar cane sodas from Hey Sugar in downtown Celina and Roanoke.

SWEET STOPS Old-fashioned candy stores at historic squares WORDS PAMEL A HAMMONDS

THERE’S A REASON THE PHRASE “like a kid in a candy store” is synonymous with having a rollicking good time—there’s nothing like riffling through baskets and barrels and shelves of colorful treats and picking out exactly what you’re craving. And now, as families prepare for Valentine’s Day and Easter—both big candy holidays—it’s a great time to get acquainted with these charming, locally owned candy stores in historic city squares around North Texas.

COURTESY OF JENNIE PEAK PHOTOGRAPHY

ANDIMAC CANDY SHACK

Dynamic duo Andrea and her son Brandon McMillin own and run this sweet storefront on downtown Mansfield’s Main Street. It’s chock full of more than 1,600 treats—everything from oldschool candies and sodas to a massive display of Jelly Belly dispensers and, for those hot days, Dippin’ Dots ice cream. Come check out the selections Monday–Saturday and, on Sundays too starting again in March. Andrea makes pre-made or made-to-order candy bouquets and baskets with puzzles and toys—handy if you’re needing a quick gift. St. Patrick’s Day in Mansfield is all about pickles— the city’s heritage crop—so if you’re visiting during the annual Pickle Parade & Palooza (pickleparade.org) on Saturday, March 16, stop into AndiMac’s for their pickle-flavored jellybeans, taffy and lollipops. // Mansfield, 682/422-3025; andimaccandyshack.com

BLOOMS CANDY & SODA POP SHOP

Blooms first opened in Historic Downtown Carrollton as a flower shop but later, they shifted their focus and went all in on candy. Today, they sell hundreds of candies, novelties and toys for kids and adults, but their signature treat is retro soda. Blooms offers hundreds of glass-bottle sodas, 90 of which are root beer. (Hello, butterscotch.) Many of these sodas are made with real cane sugar. Blooms, open daily, continuously switches up their inventory to fit the occasions, making their Valentine and Easter basket offerings surefire hits. // Carrollton, 972/416-5230; candycarrollton.com

MOM & POPCORN

As the name implies, Mom & Popcorn is best known for its unique, gourmet popcorn in sweet flavors—like birthday cake and fruity cornfetti—and savory—like bacon cheddar and

Next time you’re moseying around the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, plan a pit stop at the Candy Barrel, where you’ll find exactly that—dozens of wooden barrels overflowing with chocolates, gummies and lollipops of every kind and 60-plus flavors of salt water taffy. Your kids will get a kick out of the novelty treats: scorpion lollipops, chocolatecovered insects, the bacon-flavored sodas, and oversized candies as big as the Lone Star State itself, like 5-pound gummy bears. You’ll find this old-fashioned candy store, open daily, inside the Stockyards Station shopping and dining district, which doubles as a depot for the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. For more candy, come back for the Stockyards’ annual Easter Egg Hop on Saturday, March 30, when the store will offer face painting from noon–5pm. // Fort Worth, 508/474-2973; fortworthstockyards.org

ROCKET FIZZ

What puts the “fizz” in this candy shop? The hundreds of wild and wacky flavored sodas. Try the Whirly Pop lollipop or Bazooka bubble gum soda, or truly wacky flavors like ranch—yes, ranch dressing. It’s the wackier, the better with its candy options too, like the Sour Punch Pickle Roulette you may have seen on TikTok, and an array of classic candy options and more from Mexico, Europe and Asia. Rocket Fizz has franchises all over the country, with three locations open daily here in North Texas: in the historic Deep Ellum neighborhood east of Downtown Dallas; on Grapevine’s Historic Main Street, nestled next to the Town Square gazebo; and another in Arlington, north of AT&T Stadium. // Arlington, 682/706-3390; Dallas, 972/773-9155; Grapevine, 817/421-8400; rocketfizz.com

HEY SUGAR

Best known for its nostalgic selections, Hey Sugar Candy Stores stock popular candies from the 1800s to 1990s. Never before tasted Turkish Taffy? Here’s your chance to try it, plus lots of cotton candy, old-timey sodas and even Hey Sugar’s own ice cream brand, TX Creamery. Get a scoop of TX 2 Step (made with Dr Pepper) instore or at Central Market grocery stores. Hey Sugar has half a dozen locations in North and Central Texas, including Roanoke and Celina, the latter of which is unique in that it’s housed in a historic, renovated pharmacy at Celina Town Square. Look for the bright green door and kiddie rides on the porch. // Celina, 469/202-3089; Roanoke, 682/831-9900; heysugarcandy.com DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

BEST SUMMER EVER // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEST SUMMER EVER Childhood summer memories and camp go hand-in-hand. Explore these fun camp options that will make this a summer to remember.

Find additional camps at dfwchild.com/camps

Ann & Nate Levine Academy Summer Camps offer fun-filled learning opportunities for children ages infant to 14 years old! Campers may enroll in one or more weekly sessions, facilitated by professional staff. Themes vary weekly throughout the summer. Camp Shemesh, ages Infant-care through Kindergarten Early care/aftercare available from 7:45am to 6pm (5pm Fridays). Summer@Levine, ages 6–14 Weekly camps embrace arts, sports, STEM, and much more! Open to the community. 18011 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas, TX 75252 972-248-3032 levineacademy.org/camp

Our ABA therapy services will make you a happy camper! Summer Camp at The Behavior Exchange combines expert ABA therapy services with a fun curriculum for children, ages 2–12, with autism and other behavioral concerns. Our ABA therapy services include One-on-One Therapy where children learn foundational skills, B.E.E.S. for school readiness, and Social Skills Groups.

Camp Play Frisco gives kids a fun, enriching experience at the Frisco Athletic Center and Water Park! We offer summer day camps for ages 6-11 from Monday through Friday. Each week is full of activities such as swimming, crafts, sports, games, on-site entertainment, movies and more! One parent said, “There are a variety of activities, the water park and field trips are included, and my child never comes home bored. The counselors seem to bond well with the kids.”

For more than 20 years, we’ve helped children communicate better, successfully participate in group activities, prepare for school, and develop social skills in our uniquely fun, colorful, and caring learning environment. Our services are covered by most insurance providers. Call to reserve a spot today!

Looking for a summer camp filled with a variety of fun activities? Camp Play Frisco is the place to be!

Hives in Plano, Frisco and Prosper 972-312-8733 • behaviorexchange.com/our-services/summer-camp

5828 Nancy Jane Lane, Frisco, TX 75035 972-292-6600 • friscotexas.gov/camps

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

BEST SUMMER EVER // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Do summer your way at SummerYou! SummerYou is an eight-week summer program for kids Age 3–Grade 12 facilitated by, and on the campus of, All Saints’ Episcopal School. Our 147-acre campus in west Fort Worth is the perfect habitat for exploration, adventure, and curiosity. With more than 200 camps to choose from, your child won’t be riding the boredom train. From building robots to throwing water balloons, riding horses to woodworking, performing in the musical to playing lacrosse, SummerYou has it all! With half and full day affordable weekly camps all on one campus, parents can rest easy knowing the logistics, and their kids, are well taken care of. Our extended day offerings also allow you to make the early morning meeting and run that extra errand you’ve been putting off.

Play with a Purpose! Keep your kids and teens active this summer with our health and fitness-focused programs. Summer Fit & Fun Camp Tennis Camp Swim Lessons Fit & Fun Camp: Ages 5–12 • June 3–August 9 Our action-packed Fit & Fun day camps introduce various sports, physically-active games and overall wellness through daily fitness and nutrition lessons. Each week has a different schedule. Ask about adding on Splash Camp and Extended Care! Early bird registration pricing available—limited spaces remain. Improve fitness | Build character | Explore sports

Registration for summer 2024 is open! Explore all that SummerYou has to offer and start planning your summer now.

9700 Saints Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76108 817-560-5700, ext. 416 summeryou.org/dfwchild

12100 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75230 972.560.6310

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

BEST SUMMER EVER // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at S.E.E.D (Summer Exploration, Engagement, and Discovery) Camp in the Garden! Campers will be immersed in the lush surroundings of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden as they grow into young scientists, dive into the wonders of the natural world, and let learning and fun take center stage! Don’t miss out on the thrill of discovery—join us for an unforgettable summer at S.E.E.D Camp! Camp sessions run from June 3 to July 12. Visit our website for descriptions and registration information! • Half day (9am–12pm) for ages 4–5 • Full day (9am–3pm) for ages 6–14 fwbg.org/camps • lreeves@fwbg.org

Get ready for an unforgettable summer at the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Day Camps! Dive into a world of excitement, friendship, and discovery as we create lasting memories for your young adventurers. At YMCA Day Camps, we’re all about fun with purpose! Our engaging programs are carefully designed to inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and build lifelong friendships. From thrilling outdoor activities to hands-on arts and crafts, each day is a new opportunity for your child to grow and thrive. Our dedicated staff at the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment, ensuring your child’s well-being. At the same time, they embark on a summer filled with laughter and learning. Join us for a summer of endless possibilities. Whether conquering challenges, making new friends, or discovering hidden talents, YMCA Day Camps are the ultimate recipe for a summer to remember. Secure your spot now, and let the adventure begin! Financial aid available! 469-902-9079 ymcadallas.org/youth_development/summer_camps/day_camps

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

With SMU Girls Soccer Camps, there are a variety of camp options available to suit your camper from ages 5+. Our goal is to offer your camper the opportunity to improve her skills while also having FUN. Whether you want to make new friends, develop with your teammates, improve your technical skill, grow your tactical knowledge, be identified as an SMU women’s soccer recruit, and/ or just have FUN, we have the camp for you! **All sport camps and clinics are open to any and all entrants, limited only by age, grade level, gender, or number of participants.** 5800 Ownby Drive, Ford Stadium, Gate 5 Dallas, TX 75275 945-230-4030 smusoccercamps.com

BEST SUMMER EVER // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A co-educational overnight residential camp in the heart of Texas! 4-H Camp features traditional camp experiences such as kayaking, shooting sports, challenge course, environmental education, arts and crafts, dancing, swimming and lots more! Weekly camp sessions are held June–August. Check out our website for more information and registration, texas4hcenter.tamu.edu. 5600 FM 3021, Brownwood, TX 76801 325-784-5482 • Fax: 325-784-6486 • texas4-hcenter@ag.tamu.edu texas4hcenter.tamu.edu The members of Texas A&M AgriLife will provide equal opportunities in programs and activities, education, and employment to all persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law and will strive to achieve full and equal employment opportunity throughout Texas A&M AgriLife.

Located on 360 acres in the heart of Fort Worth with a wooded landscape and the Trinity River forks, Camp Carter offers boys and girls aged 5–17 a summer of freedom, outdoor exploration, songs around a campfire, and loads of laughter. Over five generations of campers have enjoyed summers canoeing, horseback riding, fishing, making friends, shooting archery, hiking, and reaching new heights on the challenge course.

Ballet Basics introduces young dancers, ages 3 to 6, to the fundamentals of ballet in a fun, encouraging environment. The camp experience also includes crafts, story time and choreography matching the theme of the week. The Young Dancer Intensive (ages 7–9) and Junior Intensive (ages 10–14) broaden dancers’ perspectives with a variety of classes including ballet, modern, jazz and musical theater. Dancers will focus on artistry and technique with instruction from supportive faculty. All programs are available at our Fort Worth and Richardson campuses. For more information, visit our website or contact your nearest campus at fwschool@texasballet.org or dallasschool@texasballet.org. Fort Worth: 1500 Mall Circle, Fort Worth 76116 • 817-763-0207 Dallas: 300 N. Coit Rd. Ste. 231, Richardson 75080 • 214-377-8576 texasballettheater.org/summer-programs

When the sun’s out, the fun’s out at YMCA Summer Day Camps. Great summers start at the Y. Through a unique blend of games, activities like art, swimming, STEM, golf and field trips, kids have the chance to build their independence, find a friend, and flex their creativity. Parents have the peace of mind of knowing their children are in a safe and enriching place.

Join us for a FREE come-and-go open house on March 3, April 21 or May 19.

YMCA Day Camps are offered in multiple locations across Fort Worth, Keller, Azle, Saginaw, Granbury and Benbrook. PLUS! Y Camps accept CCMS and offer multiple scholarships so everyone can join in the fun!

6200 Sand Springs Road, Fort Worth, TX 76114 817-738-9241 • camper@ymcafw.org • YMCACampCarter.org

817-566-1030 • ychildcare@ymcafw.org YMCAFW.org

This is a summer you’ll always remember!

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

BEST SUMMER EVER // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The DIS Summer Enrichment Camp is a 6-week program offering all campers ages 3–17 the opportunity to explore a wide range of activities—from Arts to Science—in a safe and caring environment. Campers may enroll in a full-day or half-day program for any combination of activities they choose. Lunch is provided at no additional cost to all full-day campers. Extended day options available on both campuses.

Celebrating 90 YEARS! Come find MORE at Camp El Tesoro—more fun, more acceptance, more friendships, more adventures, more technology-free space and more opportunities to try new things. Overnight Camp features a wide range of activities from horseback riding and archery to crafts, woodshop, high ropes and kayaking.

972-991-6379 camps@dallasinternationalschool.org dallasinternationalschool.org

Camp Fire Camp El Tesoro 7710 Fall Creek Hwy., Granbury TX 76049 817-831-2111 • CampFireFW.org/CampET

11110 Midway Road, Dallas, TX 75229 214-357-1610 gsesdallas.org/summer

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

For 30 Years, Kidventure has been Texas’ premier summer day and overnight camp. Kidventure is more than just a summer of fun, it’s a summer of opportunity. That opportunity is one to grow in confidence, create friendships, and be a part of something special. Kidventure provides summer day camp programs and seasonal camps at seven outstanding locations around the DFW area, including Kessler, Preston Hollow, Lake Highlands, Little Elm, Highland Village, Plano and Arlington! Ages 3–16.

High school-age students will learn about screenwriting, directing, producing, on-camera acting, editing, and cinematography and will write, produce, and edit a short film that will be screened at the 2024 Lone Star Film Festival. Sessions are individual of each other; students are welcome to enroll in both sessions. Space is limited. Session 1: M–F, July 8–19 Session 2: M–F, July 22–August 2

1 Nature Place, McKinney, TX 75069 972-562-5566 heardmuseum.org

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

FREE Camp Previews March 10, April 21 or May 19

214-303-9789 • dallas@kidventure.com kidventure.com/dallas-summer-camps

Good Shepherd Episcopal School’s Summer Program provides students the opportunity to take risks and try unique and fun activities in a safe and nurturing environment! We are excited to bring a unique blend of dynamic and academically-rich classes, designed specifically for ages 12 months through 8th Grade. The program runs from 5/28–8/2.

TCU - Bob Schieffer College of Communication 2805 S. University Dr., Moudy South Building Fort Worth, TX 76129 lonestarfilmfestival.com/lsff-film-camps

BEST SUMMER EVER // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Explore literature in a fun and creative way at NTPA. Kids transform into their favorite storybook characters as they bring popular stories to life on stage. Popular themes like Mario, Frozen, Harry Potter, Descendants and more. Camps and productions are available all summer long for grades K–12. Accessible camps are available for Deaf students and students with disabilities. Locations in Plano, Fairview, Frisco, Dallas and Southlake 972-422-2575 ntpa.org/camps

June 7–June 20 3 camps to choose from Jamie Dixon Basketball Camps, located at Texas Christian University, are dedicated to providing a basketball camp experience that is educational, instructional and fun! Led by TCU Men’s Basketball coaches and players, campers will be introduced to the same mechanics and drills used with our collegiate athletes. Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or gender). Jamie Dixon Basketball Camps at TCU abcsportscamps.com/tcubasketball

Summer, The Shelton Way offers academic and enrichment courses, speech camps and sports sessions for students in Early Childhood through 12th grade. Programs feature Shelton’s multisensory and discovery methods of instruction and are open to Shelton and non-Shelton students who may or may not have a language-based learning difference.

• Registration opens Feb. 14 • Summer classes: June 12-July 3 • Sports programs: June-August

Come explore outside with our weeklong summer camps for ages 4–12 and a new Green Teen Leader Camp for ages 13–17. Participants spend most of the day outside (weather dependent) in our 7.5 acres of organic gardens. Campers have fun while engaging in plant and animal-themed activities, creative crafts and plenty of free nature play.

shelton.org/summerschool

3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Fair Park Gate 6 Dallas, TX 75210 214-428-7476 x270 txdg.org/summer-camp-2024

In small “Under Construction” classes, youth learn to manage strong emotional reactions. Yourchildscounselor created this fun and interactive class for 8-11 yearolds. Classes have 2 adult leaders; children create their own “tool-book” to bring home; parents are invited to 2 virtual sessions to learn the same information so they can support their child at home. Individual sessions also available. Lyn Rodriguez Neisius, LPC-S, LSSP, has 25 years of licensed experience.

Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! Atop Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8–17; 1 to 8 weeks, 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend up to 6 hours a day riding and caring for your OWN camp horse. The Jones family are third generation horse lovers, camp administrators and equine educators making girls dreams come true!

6344 Davis Blvd., NRH, TX 76180 682-328-3458 • lyn@yourchildscounselor.com yourchildscounselor.com

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp 606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231 • valleyviewranch.com

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

mom approved

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

2024

OB-GYNS, MIDWIVES & FERTILITY SPECIALISTS COMPILED BY DFWCHILD EDITORS

FORTY(ISH) WEEKS, three trimesters, 10 tiny fingers and 10 tiny toes—a lot of facts and figures come with pregnancy. Here are a few more to ponder.

34%

BLOOD VOLUME IN THE BODY DURING PREGNANCY INCREASES 40 TO 50 PERCENT

THE C-SECTION RATE IN TEXAS IN 2021. U.S. C-SECTION RATE: 22%

2X Across the country, the NUMBER OF

MIDWIFERY-LED BIRTH CENTERS HAS MORE THAN DOUBLED in the

last decade

1 IN 8 COUPLES in the U.S. has trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy

Escobar, Julian MD

Conceive Fertility Center

Jones, Tiffanny MD

Conceive Fertility Center

Marynick, Samuel P. MD Texas Center for Reproductive Health

Skora, Daniel MD Fertility Specialists of Texas

Dallas-Fort Worth Fertility Associates

EULESS

Escobar, Julian MD

Conceive Fertility Center

84%

OF BABIES BORN IN TEXAS BEGIN BREASTFEEDING. BY 6 MONTHS, 54% ARE STILL BREASTFEEDING AND BY 1 YEAR, 24%

16 CUPS

OF WATER A DAY TO COMPENSATE FOR THE EXTRA WATER THAT IS USED TO MAKE MILK

DALLAS

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

FRISCO

Jones, Tiffanny MD

Conceive Fertility Center

ONLY

4% of women give birth on their due date

389,417

THE NUMBER OF LIVE BIRTHS IN TEXAS IN 2022

Ku, Lowell MD Dallas IVF

MCKINNEY

Escobar, Julian MD

Conceive Fertility Center

LACTATION CONSULTANTS ALEDO

Martin, Heather IBCLC, RLC

Beyond the Breast

DALLAS

Bulette, Monique DPT, PT, IBCLC

Latched Physical Therapy

Lohse, Meridith IBCLC

North Dallas Doula Associates

Poole, Hannah IBCLC

North Dallas Doula Associates

Wilbert, Janis BA, CLC, IBCLC

Forest Lane Pediatrics

SOURCES: ACADEMY OF NUTRITION AND DIETETICS, CDC, NATIONAL CENTER FOR HEALTH STATISTICS, PERINATAL INSTITUTE, STATELINE.ORG

NURSING MOMS NEED ABOUT

FERTILITY SPECIALISTS

Thomas, Mika MD

The uTERUS STRETCHES

FROM THE SIZE OF A SMALL PEACH TO THE SIZE OF A WATERMELON—ABOUT 500 TIMES ITS ORIGINAL SIZE— DURING PREGNANCY

READERNOMINATED AND TRUSTED BY MOMS LIKE YOU

mom approved

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Yahil, Marissa MSOT, OTR/L, CBS, IBCLC

Lactation & Development Resources

FRISCO

Wilbert, Janis BA, CLC, IBCLC

Forest Lane Pediatrics

MESQUITE

Wilbert, Janis BA, CLC, IBCLC

Forest Lane Pediatrics

PLANO

Berger, Courtney IBCLC My Pure Delivery

Page, Kelly IBCLC My Pure Delivery

Sazmand, Amber MSN, RN, IBCLC Medical City Plano

HOME VISITS

Liczbinski, Emily IBCLC, LCCE Baby Latch Love All DFW See ad on page 53

Martin, Heather IBCLC, RLC Beyond the Breast Parker County & Fort Worth

Pierre, LaToya BSN, RN, IBCLC

Golden Flow Lactation Dallas & Collin Counties

MIDWIVES ALLEN

Hinrichs, Shanna LM, CPM Kharis Midwifery

Watson, Courtney MSN, CNM, WHNP-C Allen Midwifery & Family Wellness

ALVARADO

Dishman, Melissa MSN, CNM Midwife+Co

Fewell, Elizabeth CPM, LM Origins Birth & Wellness

Hedrick, Kalie APRN, CNM Midwife+Co

Hines, Becky LM, CPM Dallas Birth

Tutton, Mallory CPM, LM

UT Southwestern Medical Center, William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital

Kaney-Francis, Meghan MSN, APRN, CNM Dallas Women’s Wellness & Midwifery

Lively, Cori LM, CPM Barefoot Midwifery

Dallas Birth

Biedebach, Ashlyn MSN, APRN, CNM

Origins Birth & Wellness

Clay, Brittney LM, CPM

Swiss Avenue Birth & Wellness

Congleton, Johanna DNP, CNM Midwife+Co

Crawford, Jennifer CPM, LM Origins Birth & Wellness

FRISCO

Castleberry, Amber MSN, APRN, CNM

Mitchell, Teri APRN, CNM, IBCLC

HHM Health

Simonton, Kara MSN, APRN, CNM, WHNP

Dallas Women’s Wellness & Midwifery

Sloan, Emily APRN, CNM

BundleBorn Midwifery

Wallis, Margie LM, CPM Frisco Midwifery & Birth Center

GRAPEVINE

East Dallas Birth & Wellness

Daly, Kim LM, CPM

Stricker, Bethany LM, CPM

Jones, Joy LM, CPM

North Texas Midwifery

Tate, Amy LM, CPM Swiss Avenue Birth & Wellness

Tawater, Kristine LM, CPM Urban Midwifery

DENTON

Lewis, Rebekah CPM, LM Shade Tree Midwifery

Milliron, Jennifer LM, CPM

FLOWER MOUND

Caudell, Heather RN, CNM FORT WORTH

Baker, Kiesha LM, CPM

Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center

Miller, Eva CNM, APRN

Midwife+Co

CELINA

DALLAS

Zaumseil, Lorin APRN, RN, CNM

Mathis, Erika MSN, CNM

Earthside Midwifery

Legacy Midwives

Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center

BundleBorn Midwifery See ad on page 50

Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates

Young, Krista LM, CPM

Morrow, Carla DNP, CNM

Vaughn, Valerie APRN, MSN, CNM

Serenity Midwifery

AZLE

Texas Health Nurse Midwife Care

Hovinen, Susan MS, APRN, CNM

ARLINGTON

Sage Midwifery

Kirk, Alison APRN, CNM

Midwife+Co

Houser, Taylor DNP, CNM

FARMERS BRANCH

White, Sarah LM, CPM

Texas Health Nurse Midwife Care

Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center; Midwife+Co

Miller, Mollie LM, CPM

The Birthing Sweet Birth Center

Hopkins, Katherine APRN, CNM

Bialas, Meredith CPM, LM Birth 121

Bichard, Emily CPM, LM Sage Midwifery

Eggebrecht, Erica MSN, CNM

Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center

Griffith, Lindsay CNM Midwife+Co

Hicks, Candis APRN, CNM

Texas Health Nurse Midwife Care

Grapevine Birthing Center

Mayorga, Kathleen APRN, CNM

MCKINNEY

MIDLOTHIAN

Wonderfully Made Wellness Sanctuary See ad on page 53

Bella Births

Bialas, Meredith CPM, LM Birth Midlothian

RICHARDSON

Spillers, Jana APRN, NNPBC, CLE, CPST

Hammack, Kristy LM, CPM

OB-GYNS

ROANOKE

Atkins, Baron MD

Lovers Lane Birth Center

ARLINGTON

Curtis, Brianna LM, CPM

USMD Arlington South OB-GYN Clinic

ROCKWALL

Oladell, Charmaine MD, FACOG

Blue Heron Midwifery

Buchanan, Christina MSN, APRN, CNM

Rockwall Birth & Circumcision by Christina

PLANO

Silberstein, Lindsay MSN, APRN, CNM Plano Birthplace

Tate, Jeannine MSN, APRN, CNM Plano Birthplace

WAXAHACHIE

Gyde, Terry LM, CPM Born2BABlessing Birth Services

WEATHERFORD

Watkins, Kim LM, CPM A Blessed Birth Midwifery

WILLOW PARK

Omega OB-GYN Associates

BEDFORD

Wood, Beverly MD

Generations OB-GYN Group, P.A.

CEDAR HILL

Woodus, Tiffany MD, FACOG

Woodus Obstetrics & Gynecology

DALLAS

Allen, Regan MD

Vernon & Waldrep OB-GYN Associates

Angel, Angela MD Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas See ad on page 51

Stanton Vann, Ashley LM, CPM

Arias-Franklin, Sonia MD

Fort Worth Midwifery

OB-GYN & Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic

Santangelo, Traci APRN, MS, CNM

HOME VISITS

Behan, Joseph MD

KELLER

BEAM Birth Services Dallas, Denton & Tarrant Counties

Origins Birth & Wellness Collective

Buchanan, Christina MSN, APRN, CNM

Grapevine Birthing Center

IRVING

BirthPointe See ad on page 53

Bichard, Emily CPM, LM Cochran, Ashley CPM, LM Origins Birth & Wellness Collective

Jones, Asia CPM, LM Origins Birth & Wellness Collective

Thomson, Gina CPM, LM Origins Birth & Wellness Collective

Wages, Kaitlyn LM, CPM Origins Birth & Wellness Collective

MANSFIELD

Bryner, Whitney APRN, CNM Midwife+Co

DiMarco, Sarah LM

The Nest Birth Center

Zaumseil, Lorin APRN, RN, CNM Midwife+Co

MCKINNEY

Costello, Holly CNM, FNP-BC

Adriatica Women’s Health

Anderson, Roxanne LM, CPM, IBCLC

Rockwall Birth & Circumcision by Christina East Dallas

LeGrand, Justine LM

Grow Birth Services All DFW

Miller, Mollie LM, CPM The Birthing Sweet Birth Center Tarrant, Johnson, Hood & Hill Counties

NURSE PRACTITIONERS ARGYLE

Arbor Vitae Healthcare

Blewett, Kavitha MD Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas See ad on page 51

Brough, Jonathan MD Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas See ad on page 51

Caram, Bianca MD, FACOG

Legacy Women’s Health

Chhutani, Sheila MD

Dallas Gynecological & Obstetrical Associates

Collins, Linden MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates of Dallas

Crable, Quanita MD, FACOG

Alpha, Meagan MSN, APRN

Alpha Women’s Wellness

DALLAS

Spillers, Jana APRN, NNPBC, CLE, CPST Wonderfully Made Wellness Sanctuary See ad on page 53

Dr. Crable OB-GYN

Dullye, Tara MD

Tara A. Dullye, MD

Ebrahim, Marianne MD Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas See ad on page 51

FORT WORTH

Elmquist, Alison MD

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

Foxworth, Kecia MD

Whitaker, Shandy FNP-C

Vernon & Waldrep OB-GYN Associates

Kessler Women’s Healthcare

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

mom approved

Gladney, Robert MD Swiss OB-GYN

Godat, Mark MD

Mark J. Godat MD, PA

Gunderson, Rachel MD Carlos & Parnell, MD, PA

Hagood, Julie MD

Walnut Hill Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates

Hunt, Eugene MD

Eugene P. Hunt, MD

Jenner, Molly MD Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas See ad on page 51

Kurian, Rachel MD

Women’s Health Alliance

Lo, Julie Y. MD

UT Southwestern OB-GYN & Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic & Parkland Health

Lomba, Paula MD

OB-GYN & Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic

Lutich, Ann MD

Lowe Foundation Center for Women’s Health Care

Nokleberg, Jane MD

Walnut Hill Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates

O’Connor, Tara MD Vernon & Waldrep OB-GYN Associates

Patton, Theresa MD

Kessler Women’s Healthcare

Perugini, Francesca MD Health Central Women’s Care - Dallas

Pompey, Shanica MD

Carlos & Parnell, MD, PA

Rosenfield, Laura MD Gynecological & Obstetrical Associates

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Stevenson-Gargiulo, Elizabeth DO

LAKE WORTH

Rainer, Drew MD Women’s Health Medical Group

Palmer, Andrea MD, FACOG

Tajzoy, Emil W. MD

Pappu, Shefali MD Advanced OB-GYN Associates

ROCKWALL

Emil W. Tajzoy, MD, PLLC

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

LEWISVILLE

Uremovich, Jennifer DO

Rainer, Drew MD

North Texas OB-GYN Associates

Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas See ad on page 51

Waldrep, Kathryn MD, FACOG

Rex, Elise MD

MANSFIELD

ROWLETT

Swiss OB-GYN

Perez-Moore, Alejandra MD

Women’s Health Medical Group

Vernon & Waldrep OB-GYN Associates

Oladell, Charmaine MD, FACOG

Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology

Walker, Angela MD, FACOG

Suba, Steven MD

Welsh, Brian MD, FACOG

Tabor, Lauren MD, FACOG

Omega OB-GYN Associates

PLANO

Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology

Vernon & Waldrep OB-GYN Associates Dallas Women’s Healthcare Specialists See ad on page 53

Burt, Randall J. MD

OB-GYN North Dallas

Evans, Aungel MD

Associated Women’s Healthcare

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

Tate, Darren MD

Wood, Rita DO, PA

Women’s Specialists of Plano

Fort Worth Woman’s Clinic

Eighth Avenue Obstetrics & Gynecology

Gibson, Charmaine MD

Atkins, Lori MD, FACOG

FRISCO

Lopez-Klein, Juliana MD

Bevan, Catherine MD, FACOG

Means, Jacquelyn MD

Benjamin, Shruti MD

Plano Women’s Healthcare

Willow Women’s Health

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

Roberts, John Paul MD, FACOG

Nguyen, Nguyen DO, FACOG

Bradford, Laura MD

Sullivan, Adriana MD, FACOG

GRAPEVINE

Gehlot, Ashita MD

Bruce, Heather Anne DO

Empower Gynecology

Baylor Scott & White Obstetrics & Gynecology Grapevine

Glenn, Sunny MD, FACOG

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

IRVING

King, Kristi MD

WholeLife Authentic Care

Women’s Health of Las Colinas

Larsen, Alicia MD, FACOG

Hyslop, A. Thomas MD

Speight, Tracy MD

Moyers, Carolyn DO, FACOG, NCMP Sky Women’s Health

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE FRISCO

Koster, Erin MD Erin L. Koster MD

OB-GYN North Dallas

Frisco Obstetrics & Gynecology, PA

Eighth Avenue Obstetrics & Gynecology

Bevan, Catherine MD, FACOG

Intricate Health

Plano Women’s Healthcare

Legacy OB-GYN

WILLOW PARK

Palmer, Andrea MD, FACOG

FORT WORTH

Bailey, Melissa MD

Baylor Scott & White Obstetrics & Gynecology - Rowlett

Foster-Rettig, Chikara MD

Plano Women’s Healthcare

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

Nguyen-Reyes, Tracy MD, FACOG

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

Fort Worth Female Health Associates

Alexis, Althea MD

Brough, Jonathan MD

Feltman, Adrienne MD

Arbor Vitae Healthcare

Womack, Ashley MD

Fenom Women’s Care See ad on page 52

Health Central Women’s Care

WholeLife Authentic Care

Baylor Scott & White Park Lane OB-GYN Associates

Slocum, Stephanie MD

Health Central Women’s Care

Obst, Jaime DO

Holcomb, Denisse MD

OB-GYN & Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic

Weix, Patrick M. MD, PhD OB-GYN & Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic

Associated Women’s Healthcare See ad on page 53

Trylovich, Courtney MD, FACOG Northlake Obstetrics & Gynecology

Zink, Ashley MD

GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGIST FORT WORTH

Miroshnichenko, Gennady MD JPS Health Center for Women

UT Southwestern MaternalFetal Medicine at Texas Health Plano

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS

RICHARDSON

Lahutsky, Erin PA-C

Downey, Charles R. MD

Women’s Health Associates of Richardson

DALLAS

UTSW Fertility & Advanced Reproductive Medicine Clinic

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Amber Castleberry, MSN, APRN, CNM Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified Nurse Midwife Amber Castleberry (formerly Amber Higgs) is a DFW native who loves taking care of the community where she was raised. With over 15 years of experience in the field, her goal is to educate and empower individuals so they feel seen, safe, and heard. She thrives in the blended space between holistic care and western medicine by offering both planned home birth and planned hospital birth alongside her partner, fellow Mom-Approved Midwife, Dr. Teri Mitchell. BundleBorn prides itself on creating an inclusive community. Space is limited. Submit your information at bundleborn.com or call 469-200-8052 to learn more. BundleBorn Midwifery 11655 Independence Pkwy., Ste 210 Frisco, TX 75035 469-200-8052 bundleborn.com

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Angela Angel, MD Kavitha Blewett, MD Jonathan Brough, MD Marianne Ebrahim, MD Molly Jenner, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology 9x Mom Approved

ANGELA ANGEL, MD

KAVITHA BLEWETT, MD

MARIANNE EBRAHIM, MD

JONATHAN BROUGH, MD

MOLLY JENNER, MD

Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas is a seasoned Obstetrics & Gynecology group proudly serving women of all ages. Our team of board-certified OB/GYN physicians offer a wide range of services to help women through their pregnancies and maintain optimal health, from puberty through menopause. We strive to provide a personal and trustworthy experience for all our patients. As a comprehensive stop for women’s care, and with convenient locations in Dallas and Rockwall, the practice offers the technology, treatment methods, and medical knowledge women need to navigate almost any female medical concern and remain healthy for years to come. All of our physicians specialize in high-risk obstetrics, minimally invasive surgery, infertility evaluation, and full spectrum gynecological care. Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas strives to provide trustworthy healthcare for all of your female-specific medical needs through all your stages in life. We are accepting new patients at both the Dallas and Rockwall locations and look forward to serving you!

Women’s Health Specialists of Dallas 8160 Walnut Hill Ln., Ste. 200, Dallas, TX 75231 1020 W. Ralph Hall Pkwy., Ste. 101, Rockwall, TX 75032 214-363-4421 whsdallas.com Part of Texas Health Physicians Group Providers employed by Texas Health Physicians Group are not employees or agents of Texas Health Resources hospitals. ©2024 Texas Health Resources. DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Lori Atkins, MD, FACOG Catherine Bevan, MD, FACOG Sunny Glenn, MD, FACOG Alicia Larsen, MD, FACOG Andrea Palmer, MD, FACOG Lauren Tabor, MD, FACOG Shandy Whitaker, FNP-C Obstetrics & Gynecology 10x Mom Approved FENOM Women’s Care is not just a practice in medicine, it is a practice in humanity. We combine the finest general obstetrics and gynecology with care that extends beyond check-ups and physical wellness. Our all-female physician team offers real insight in order to create a true continuum of health throughout the lives of our patients for years to come. The OBGYNs of FENOM are so proud to have been recognized as “Mom Approved.” You Moms, you FENOMenal humans— YOU are the reason why we do what we do. Our mission at FENOM is to take care of you throughout your lifespan, meeting you where you are every step of the way. We are committed to empowering you to take charge of your health through personalized care, insightful education and expert service. We are comprehensive, compassionate, and powerful. We love our patients and strive as a team to be there for you in every capacity. From the nervous time of preconception, to possible struggles with infertility, the uncertainty of pregnancy, labor, delivery, Shown left to right: Alicia Larsen, MD; Sunny Glenn, MD; Catherine Bevan, MD; Lauren Tabor, MD; Lori Atkins, MD and Andrea Palmer, MD or the tumultuous postpartum period, it is our belief that a woman is most empowered when she expands her knowledge of her body and her womanhood. We offer annual exams, adolescent gynecology, menopausal medicine, pelvic support, sexual dysfunction, and so much more. Here at Fenom, we want to be a valuable resource to you. As a physician team, our commitment to those we serve allows for the added benefit of consistency of care between physicians. Whenever a health need arises, we will be here for you. This includes our amazing clinical staff, a vital part of FENOM, and we thank them for taking such great care of our patients (and of us!). Together, we form a community that is FENOMenal. Recognition from our patients means the world to us. It lets us know you see us like we see you. Thank you for being part of our FENOMenal family. #weareFENOM

Fenom Women’s Care 1250 8th Ave. Ste. 320, 322, Fort Worth, TX 76104 817-924-2111

Willow Park Office 134 El Chico Trail, Ste. 103, Willow Park, TX 76087 817-441-1644 fenomhealth.com 52

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

mom approved

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Traci Santangelo, APRN, MS, CNM Midwife

6x Mom Approved

“BirthPointe has been my dream even before I started nursing school,” says Traci Santangelo, who established BirthPointe in 2015. What started as a home birth practice has blossomed into a full scope women’s health and birth center in Irving. The center offers full spectrum midwifery care as well as monthly educational classes. Staffed by certified nurse midwives, women can come and birth based on their beliefs and desires. “We partner with the patient to make sure they get the birth they really want.” BirthPointe 7453 Las Colinas Blvd. Irving, Texas 75063 972-215-6934 birthpointe.com

Emily Liczbinski, IBCLC, LCCE Lactation Consultant

Emily Liczbinski, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, provides personalized in-home and telehealth support for lactation and infant feeding. With a focus on positive, empowering experiences, parents can navigate breastfeeding and parenting goals comfortably. Explore comprehensive services tailored to your needs. Connect with Emily for expert guidance on your journey. Baby Latch Love

Serving Allen, Frisco, North Dallas, McKinney, Plano, Richarson and the surrounding cities 469-225-3938 • babylatchlove.com

Jana Spillers, APRN, NNP-BC, CLE, CPST Nurse Practitioner

Jana is an NP and Certified Lactation Educator. She specializes in complex breastfeeding cases like low supply, lip/tongue tie, relactation and induced lactation for adoption/surrogacy. With 17 years of NICU experience, Jana provides primary care for babies from birth through the age of two. She focuses on holistic care of the maternalinfant pair. Jana handles complex issues for infants and toddlers such as eczema, prematurity and birth anomalies. Wonderfully Made Wellness Sanctuary 207 S. Tyler St., Dallas, TX 75208 469-640-0667 • wmwsanctuary.com

Adriana Sullivan, MD, FACOG Obstetrics & Gynecology

Dr. Sullivan is a board-certified physician that provides comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care, including minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, care for routine and high-risk pregnancies, annual exams and contraceptive options. She enjoys caring for women from adolescence through menopause, and is excited to be building life-long relationships with patients and practicing in the area where she grew up. She is honored to be recognized by her patients as Mom Approved! Associated Women’s Healthcare

1600 Coit Rd., Ste. 402, Plano, TX 75075 972-612-8829 • associatedwomenshealthcare.com

Brian Welsh, MD, FACOG Obstetrics & Gynecology

Dr. Welsh studied medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio and completed his residency at the University of Oklahoma. He has more than eight years of experience in private practice. Dr. Welsh is passionate about leveraging technology to improve outcomes for women and advancing the medical landscape. He enjoys building relationships with his patients and considers it an honor to be present for one of their most important moments. Dallas Women’s Healthcare Specialists, PLLC 3611 Swiss Ave., Dallas, TX 75204 214-879-8585 • dwhcs.com

DFWCHILD | february/march 2024

humor / D A D A M O N G S T D U D E S WORDS JOSH FARNSWORTH ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN

advertisement for loan consolidation. “That sounds about right,” I think to myself as I consider putting a lien on my house to afford the snacks. 7:36 P.M. Kid #1 has to pee again. Kid #2 is still just fine, dad. Just fine. 7:43 P.M. Kid #1 and I return. Kid #2 is not fine any more dad! Not fine! He needs to pee, now! 7:54 P.M. Children start getting cranky as their attempts to dance in the aisles and get on the giant scoreboard are wasted on other talentless kids. 8:08 P.M. Kid #2 is dead set on starting the wave and trying to get everyone in our section’s attention. No wave yet. 8:14 P.M. Wave starts on the opposite end of the stadium. Mom and I quickly reassure him he was the inspiration.

GAME ON

HE GREENNESS of the grass. The smell of the sausage cart outside the stadium. The size of the scoreboard. Sports is my obsession. And these were some of the first observations I made as a kid at my first real sporting events. They are days that live on in my head as epic introductions. They are experiences I am eager for my kids, Cooper and Milo, to have and share with me. They now stand as a testament to the patience my parents must have had with me. While the game is rewarding, as a parent, I’ve found it almost never goes the way you envision. Whether it’s football, baseball, basketball or hockey, I have now attended enough to see how most of these events play out: 6:15 P.M. Standing in line to be let into the stadium, after preaching patience in the car ride here, give them one last reminder. 6:17 P.M. Kids are running amok everywhere as they declare this brutal line is the worst thing ever! 54

february/march 2024 | DFWCHILD

6:25 P.M. After passing through security, I sense my wallet clutching my leg as a sea of merchants open up to my all-too-eager-tospend kids.

8:18 P.M. Kids want to “go for a walk” which is code for “I would like to walk by vendors and have you shower me with teamcolored gifts!” Two foam fingers, hats and a collector’s cup of juice later, I am roughly $80 poorer. 8:45 P.M. Exhaustion begins to set in, as all questions are different variations of “We can go now, right?”

6:41 P.M. We find our seats in Section 109. 9:01 P.M. Decide to pack up and go despite I turn to watch their faces show awe at seeing a close game as the first meltdown reaches a the arena for the first time. They breaking point that all of Secare awestruck… by the size tion 109 is about to suffer. of the cotton candy bag the venTHE GAME dor is carrying. 9:31 P.M. Listen to radio STARTS. KID #1 announcer lose his mind at a 7:05 P.M. The game starts. Kid IMMEDIATELY game-winning play that you #1 immediately has to pee. And HAS TO PEE. “just had to be there to see!” no, dad, he can’t hold it. AND NO, DAD, 7:11 P.M. We return to our seats for the first of many “I’m hungry” calls of supposed tummy pain, even though I loaded them with enough carbs prior to the game to feed a small city.

HE CAN’T HOLD IT.

7:12 P.M. As I exit to get the asked-for snacks, a raucous cheer of a big play by our team explodes through the stadium—one that I missed by mere moments. 7:25 P.M. I finally reach the front of the line to order, laughing at the sight of a nearby

10:09 P.M. Tuck kids into bed upon reaching home. Kids: Dad, that was the best time ever! Thanks.

10:35 P.M. Check the team schedule for the next game to do it all again, realizing the time spent together was worth every moment. See you soon, Section 109. Josh Farnsworth is a national-award-winning parenting columnist who lives with his wife and two goofball sons. You can reach him for column ideas at josh.farnsworth@yahoo.com.

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