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2019 FORTWORTH
NOTED 7 Sugar Rush
How to help your kid avoid sweets at parties—sans FOMO
REAL MOMS 11 Mom Next Door / Lottie Fowler
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16
ABOVE // Nomad-at-heart Lottie Fowler went from a corporate job to wedding planning.
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How Grit + Gold’s owner made the jump from corporate finance to event planning
Routines / Yvette Ramirez
For a full-time scientist in a house of eight, things can be a little hectic
KID CULTURE 25 Best Kids' Parties 2019 The winners of our annual reader
survey of favorite local party places
33 Calendar / The Agenda
Our favorite family events this month
FEATURE 16 Happily Ever After? Is princess and prince culture negatively affecting our kids?
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words Elizabeth Quinn
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COLUMNS 38
Confessions / Mom Truths
From forgotten uniform to forgotten lunches—and of course, poop catastrophes
PR/MARKETING Audience Development Director Candace Emerson Promotions Coordinator Corey Tate ADMINISTRATION Business Manager Leah Wagner Accounting Jeanie Vance
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fortworthchild / september 2019
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noted.
©ISTOCK
SUGAR RUSH
can kids cut back on sweets in a sugarfilled world? WORDS
LISA SALINAS
A
6-YEAR-OLD TURNING DOWN SWEET, SUGARY COBBLER ISN’T THE NORM—
especially surrounded by classmates who are all partaking. But that’s exactly what Cadence did. “Her school teacher was making apple pie cobbler, and she goes, ‘Mom, I didn’t have any of the cobbler today,’” Vanessa Morales shares. “I said, ‘Why? Does your stomach hurt? Are you feeling OK?’ She said, ‘No, I was watching her pour sugar in there, and you wouldn’t believe how much sugar she put in that.’” For Morales and her daughter, it’s all about sweets in moderation. The Euless mom began talking with Cadence early on about the importance of eating healthy. “She now understands why I don’t purchase certain things and her friends do,” Morales says. “I explain to her what that does to her body in a way a 6-year-old can understand. It’s as simple as telling them, ‘It’s not healthy for your body; you want your body to grow strong, and you want to have energy to play and think.’” fortworthchild / september 2019
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noted / S U G A R
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RUSH
Because Morales has always explained to her daughter the importance of eating healthy, the 6-year-old was confident in her decision not to give in to the cobbler munchies, despite the fact that all her peers were having some. “She made the decision that she just wasn’t going to have any, and it doesn’t matter that all her friends are having it,” Morales explains. “She knew that wasn’t the best thing.” Even though it might seem impossible for a child to eat clean at sugarfueled outings, such as birthday parties and holidays (ahem, Halloween), parents who want to cut back on the sweets can equip their kiddos to make healthy decisions in social situations, sans guilt or FOMO.
but instead guide her and let her know that X sugary snack now means no others, so we are not overwhelming her growth and development,” Morales says. “This allows her to really consider her options and to make a choice she is most happy with, versus Mom just being a ‘mean mom.’” LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Kiddos function in an “I do as you do” world, not “I do as you say.” If you as a parent show discipline by not having that second slice of cake or dipping your hand into the cookie jar too many times, chances are your kids probably will too, even when they’re away from home at school or a birthday party. “Parents who model good eating have kids who eat well— that’s not hard to see in society,” shares Jeremy Baker, a INFORMATION IS pediatrician at Cook POWER Children’s primary For Morales, it’s not Euless mom Vanessa Morales shares care office in Little Elm. about restricting what her tips for making sweet treats at any Morales eats Cadence can eat at party, so your child won’t feel left out healthy, and Cadence birthday parties and of the celebration: has always eaten like school celebrations INCORPORATE FRUIT. “You could her mom. “There is but rather giving chill the smoothie and have toppings for no kids’ menu; there her the opportunity a build-your-own smoothie bowl, which is no kid’s plate,” to make her own Morales shares. “It is decisions. are super popular right now.” ‘you eat what I eat.’” “I’ve never told OPT FOR YOGURT OVER ICE Baker also her not to,” Morales CREAM. “Use plain yogurt, top with a reminds parents that shares. “There’s been little bit of honey and fresh fruits—voila!” their family’s goals times where she USE A SUGAR-FREE, NATURAL might look different herself, similar with DRINK COLORING. “We have been using from another the cobbler situation, Ultima Replenisher for kids. It is all plantfamily’s. While some says, ‘No thank you,’ based, zero sugar, zero artificial colors or parents might aim to and she just doesn’t preservatives.” cut out sugar entirely, want it.” SUB IN NATURAL SWEETENERS. “I others like Morales NBC 5 meteoam not a fan of artificial chemical sweetallow for sweets in rologist and traffic eners but do use low glycemic sugar such moderation, or make reporter Samantha exceptions for special Davies also talks to as coconut sugar. I also like to use local situations. her two kids, 2-yearraw honey or molasses.” Davies doesn’t old Alexander and typically have sweets 3-year-old Annain her home, but Sophia, about the when she and the kids are out and desserts importance of eating healthy foods at a level are present, it is OK for her kids to indulge. they can understand. “I tell them that they “I don’t want them to be the kid that has need to eat a lot of nutrients and eat healthy to sit out and miss everything,” she says. “If dinners so that they can grow up and be big we go somewhere, they can have whatever and strong,” she says. they want. I don’t buy it at the house, so Kids will make mature decisions if we they won’t have it when they’re here.” equip them with the information needed to Cadence enjoys the occasional dessert make those decisions. “I think we as parents too—she is a kid, after all. don’t give our children enough credit,” “We still go to birthday parties and have Morales says. a dessert every now and then,” Morales says. In addition to encouraging your little to “I don’t tell her not to have a cupcake at a make “big kid” decisions despite what their birthday party. There’s times when she does, peers are doing, having open conversations and there’s times that she doesn’t. At this with your kids might prevent them from feelpoint in her age, she can make that decision. ing ashamed if they do end up indulging. I just monitor.” “I never try to shame her for her choices,
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AGE 37 LIVES IN A 1930s Cape Cod on Fort Worth’s west side SIGNIFICANT OTHER Clint, shop foreman at Cadillac of Arlington and husband of nearly 12 years OFFSPRING Daughter Saylor, who just turned 9 ALMA MATERS West Mesquite High School and University of North Texas CRUISES IN A 1966 Chevy Bel Air (“It’s all baby blue, interior and out—it’s beautiful”) and a 1973 Volkswagen Westy campervan WHY SHE LOVES FORT WORTH “It’s so big, but it has such a small-town feel. I’ll run into people like I’m in a little country town. We’ve got so much happening in this city, and I just love watching a lot of my friends start these businesses and become pillars of the community. It’s really cool.”
ABOVE //
A nomad at heart, Lottie Fowler says she’s in her Fort Worth house for the long run ... or until Saylor finishes high school.
mom next door /
LOTTIE FOWLER (big) day planner
INTERVIEW CARRIE STEINGRUBER PHOTOGRAPHY NICK PRENDERGAST
L
OTTIE FOWLER’S NEW FORT WORTH OFFICE is part co-working space, part coffee shop, one of many creative nooks in the flowering Foundry District. Its casualness is apt for the self-described nomad whose job frequently takes her out visiting venues and tasting cakes. The caffeine comes in handy too. “At any given time, you’ve got 30 or 40 clients that are needing you,” she explains. “You’re always on call. I love it, but it takes a lot of energy.” Someday, Fowler admits, she’ll probably scratch her next entrepreneurial itch; after all, she’s already hopped from corporate finance to event planning, with a brief side of vintage auto rentals. But for now Fowler is bringing her garden aesthetic to brides in Fort Worth, Dallas and Austin and designing her own daughter’s parties—in fact, we featured Saylor’s third birthday bash in these pages. “This year she’s turning 9—at what age do you stop having the over-the-top home parties?” Fowler muses. “I don’t want to ever be that mom that’s just doing it to show off.” → fortworthchild / september 2019
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real moms / M O M
NEXT DOOR
ForthWorthChild: This seems like such a hard left from where you started your professional career. How did you end up here? Lottie Fowler: Right out of college I went to work for GE. It was just the safe route, you know? It was that comfortable, climbingthe-coporate-ladder thing that you think you’re supposed to do. Then I started doing staff event planning for my bosses, and I learned how to do the budget planning and the logistical production of it. Then I personally got married, and I fell in love with the wedding planning because it was similar, but in a more creative outlet. It was like the two worlds collided for me, and I just loved it. I started doing weddings for friends and then finally created a business. FWC: Do you ever look back at your wedding and think, “Oh, I would have done this a little differently”? LF: Oh God, yes. All the time. We rode so many trends that you can really date our wedding. My husband wore Converse tennis shoes. Like, come on. It was too many kitschy things all in one bag. It was a mess. You live and learn. FWC: Does Saylor ever help out with your work? LF: She really likes what we call the assembly line work. I’ll have her tie napkins, fold paper, tie ribbons. We had a wedding in Austin, and it was right around Halloween. So instead of tying napkins, I was like, “Do you want to make 150 ghosts?” We turned it into a game, and she really had a fun time with that. FWC: You’ve moved a few times. The house you’re in now—do you see yourself staying there for the long haul? LF: Eh, I don’t know. We love historic homes. I wouldn’t say we’re flippers, but we definitely put our own touch on them, and then we get kind of bored. I really think that we’re at a place now that we’re comfortable. It’s such a special house that I want to take my time. But me and Clint are nomads at heart. I don’t see us being in a house for 15, 20 years—that’s just not who we are. But Say has tethered us down. She’s the one that keeps me grounded. We’ll be here at least through high school, and then we’ll see. Who knows? She might grow up and decide to move abroad, and I might follow her.
FWC: Since you guys were last in the magazine, it’s been almost six years. How has parenting her changed in that time? LF: That 3–5—everybody says that that’s a difficult stage. Not for me. There was never any picky eating or making a comment about a menu. She was just ride or die, all the time. But now she’s got her own opinion about things. I give and take, but I’m always telling her, “You get a lot of perks that a lot of other kids don’t because I have such a flexible job. But when my job calls for me to be on task, I need you to work with me.” She has to come along with me for the business and learn how to be a little adult. She’s very seasoned for her age, and while she acts that way, I think sometimes she can miss just being crazy like every other kid. So I try to make it up to her, and we’ll take a day off and go do something fun. It’s always a balance, with any working mom. FWC: Do you ever have any regret that you can’t spend more time with her, or that she can’t spend more time being crazy? LF: Maybe for a heartbeat, but then it’s over, because she gets to see what it’s like to be a hardworking mom. I think there’s just something about having that dream that you go after, something that you built on your own. I’m trying to teach her that, and I think that’s something she’ll appreciate later in life. FWC: Do you see yourself giving up wedding planning someday and chasing after a different adventure? LF: Probably. My dream is to grow this business, have it be successful and then sell it. There’s just so many things that I love, that I could see myself easily picking something else up that fills my heart in a different way. I get worried that I only have one lifetime and not enough time to do all the things. But I love gardening. I’d love to take classes and enjoy living a little slower. FWC: What kind of future do you envision for Saylor? LF: She’s wanted to be a baker for like four years now. She’s even drafted her own storefront. She says it’s going to be a bakery where there’ll be human treats and doggie treats, and dogs are allowed to come inside. She’s definitely her mother’s child—she’s a little bit of a dreamer, head in the clouds. But I think that makes for the best kinds of people, you know? She’ll figure something out. It’s very exciting, watching your kid become their person.
“I THINK SOMETIMES SHE CAN MISS JUST BEING CRAZY LIKE EVERY OTHER KID.”
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fortworthchild / september 2019
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a thursday in the life of
YVETTE RAMIREZ A scientist for Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Yvette Ramirez works full time and comes home to a family of eight. She lives in Fort Worth with her husband of 12 years, AJ, and their five kids. Two are AJ’s—Chelsea, 24, and Chase, 20—and together they have Ethan, 10, Joshua, 7, and Nathan, 3. Ramirez is also a Gigi (not a grandma) to her stepdaughter’s daughter, Millie, 3.
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:30AM Alarm goes off. This is my get-up-and-go-to-the-gym alarm. I quickly hit the snooze button and in a matter of seconds have made the decision that today, that’s just not happening. 5:45AM Alarm goes off again. Who am I kidding? It’s actually gone off a lot more since the first alarm, but now this is my lastchance-to-get-your-butt-out-of-bed alarm. I drag myself up and get ready for work. 6:30AM I should already be driving to work, but Ethan and Joshua are in the kitchen making their lunches. Joshua asks for help, so I start making him a sandwich. Now I am kicking myself for not having them prepare their lunches last night. Oh well. I make him his favorite sandwich, which is bologna, mayo and cheese. Once I hand it to him to put in his lunchbox, a look of disappointment comes over his face as he tells me he wanted peanut butter and jelly. Seriously? This kid has requested his “favorite” sandwich for months now, and today of all days he decides he wants peanut butter! Normally I would tell him to just eat the bologna, but I feel he is already on edge, so I make a peanut butter sandwich for him and put the other one in the fridge. After hugs and kisses, I’m out the
door. Daddy will take it from here. 7:30AM I’m already stressed out at work just looking at my calendar. I have two meetings, and I have to finish writing a technical document today so I will meet my deadline. Some days are hands-on in the lab, but most days, I’m at my laptop or in meetings. 9:30AM I feel like I need some caffeine to get me through the morning. Thankfully, there is a Starbucks on-site, so I grab an espresso Frappuccino before heading to my meeting. 12PM Normally I would be on my lunch break, but today is just not one of those days. I absolutely vow not to work late today, so here I am working through lunch so I can finish writing my technical report. I eat some snacks at my desk and keep on working. 4:30PM Met my deadline and I’m done with my day! Now it’s time to hurry up and drive to the taekwondo studio to see my kiddos. 5:10PM Made it to taekwondo. I’m greeted by my husband, Ethan and Joshua. My youngest son, Nate, is already in his Tiny Tigers Taekwondo class. I’ve missed 10 minutes of his class, but I’m just glad I made it. The excitement on his face when he sees me there is all that matters. 6:15PM We should be on our way to football conditioning practice for Joshua, but today is just one of those days (and it’s 100 degrees outside). We decide to skip today’s practice and go home and have dinner. Today is easy— pizza day! I love to cook, but today we are going for convenience. While the kids eat, I put away laundry and start another load. It’s a never-ending vicious cycle! 6:25PM Nate is talking with his brothers and says he doesn’t have to listen me. He gets put in timeout after talking back to me, and he throws a crying fit. 6:30PM Nate is done throwing his fit and proudly announces that he is going to play “Fireman Sam” now. Oh how I love how toddlers can change their moods at the drop of a hat. 6:40PM Chelsea and Millie are home. In case you haven’t done the math yet, that makes us a family of eight living in this house. Nate is so happy to see Millie, and it quickly turns into toddler talk, Paw Patrol time and trying to see who can whistle and snap. 7:25PM Snack time for the toddlers—freshly picked grapes from my garden—and then it’s bath time for both of them. 8:30PM I have just finished reading a book to Nate and tucking him in for the night. He is getting good at stalling these days. He asks for just one more hug and then asks for one more kiss. Once he is finally happy and I know he will stay in bed, I
Diaries are penned by moms (and dads) in the Fort Worth area. The authors volunteer to share a day of their choosing and are not paid or endorsed by FortWorthChild. Send your diary to editorial@dfwchild.com. All submissions are subject to editing and may be cut for space. 14
september 2019 / fortworthchild
PHOTO COURTESY OF YVETTE RAMIREZ
real moms / R O U T I N E S
the fine
WHAT SHE’S READING Do my kid’s bedtime books count? I’ve read Oliver Jeffers’ How to Catch a Star and Lost and Found every day for the past three weeks. BEVERAGE OF CHOICE Coke Zero or bloody mary WHO SHE LIKES ON INSTAGRAM Will Smith FAVORITE INDULGENCE Pedicure or massage WHAT’S IN HER NETFLIX QUEUE: Stranger Things BEST VACATION Jamaica with the husband; Sea World with the family FAVORITE MOVIES Dirty Dancing and Grease FAVORITE SCENT Lavender WORDS SHE LIVES BY “Everything happens for a reason” and “There is a solution to every problem.” BIGGEST PET PEEVE Not replacing the toilet paper roll or putting it on the wrong direction WHAT SHE DOES WHEN LIFE GETS STRESSFUL
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEAWORLD; ILLUSTRATION BY ARIANA LEYVA
Run MOTHERHOOD IN FIVE WORDS Most rewarding and difficult job HOW SHE AND AJ MET I asked him what it was going to take for him to notice me, and apparently that’s what it took! IF SHE HAD TO CHANGE CAREERS, SHE’D BE A Forensic investigator
decide to get a quick workout in since it didn’t happen this morning. I run 3 miles around the neighborhood and make it back home just before the last bit of sunlight is gone. 9:45PM After showering, I finally think I can relax—well, almost. Time to fold laundry and start another load. 10PM I finally get to sit down and watch Handmaid’s Tale with my husband. 11:15PM I hear Nathan crying upstairs. He tells me he wants some milk and has to go to potty. After a trip back downstairs to grab a cup of milk and then a potty break, I tuck him back in and tell him goodnight. I almost make it out the door, and he yells, “Mom, I need one more kiss!” One more kiss and back downstairs to finish watching TV. 11:25PM I realize I never had dinner, and I’m instantly grateful for the sandwich I made this morning that Joshua didn’t want. 11:48PM Last load of laundry in the dryer, and time for bed. fortworthchild / september 2019
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HAPPILY EVER AFTER what is princess culture and does it hurt our kids?
©ISTOCK
WORDS ELIZABETH QUINN
fortworthchild / september 2019
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S
KYLA IS ABSOLUTELY
over the moon about princesses. The North Texas 5-year-old not only dresses up like the characters and enjoys the movies, but she has also attended parties alongside her aunt, a professional party entertainer who appears at events as princess characters. But type “princess culture” into Google, and you’re sure to find a slew of articles declaring how bad princesses are for kids like Skyla: “Why Disney princesses and ‘princess culture’ are bad for girls.” “Can Disney fix its broken ‘princess culture’?” “Study finds Disney princess culture magnifies stereotypes in young girls.” So are there really so many negative effects resulting from our kids’ obsession with princesses? INNER BEAUTY?
When we show kids a princess movie, we are showing both the good and the bad traits— that princesses care about the needs of others, but also that they never raise their voices and always look put together. But what message is that sending to our kids? In a 2016 study at Brigham Young University, family life professor Sarah M. Coyne studied how the princess culture affects preschoolers, both boys and girls. The kids who were more immersed in princess culture engaged in more female-stereotypical behavior a year later. What is “female-stereotypical behavior”? For one, Coyne noticed girls weren’t as confident that they’d do well in math and science, and they were less likely to try new things. And because princesses were always portrayed as perfect reflections of femininity, girls tried to imitate that in the real world. The first thing that comes to most little girls’ minds when talking about princesses is how pretty they are. Their dresses are extravagant, and their looks are exaggerated to embody cultural standards of perfection. Mom, you know what we’re talking about—models, actresses, even Barbie—it’s the body type. In an already oversaturated market of selling a certain body type, princesses have not been the best example for little girls when it comes to outward appearance. A few years ago, artist Meridith Viguet created a satirical tutorial on how to draw Disney princesses that went viral; features include big head, big eyes, small nose, slender shoulders, very small waist, no hips, no muscles and tiny feet. Little girls admire the princesses and want to be like them and look like them, but animations like these could lead to exceptionally high expectations of what women should look like.
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Ashlyn Gilbert’s 3 ½-year-old daughter, Adalynn, loves princesses. One of her favorite princesses is Rapunzel, and why? “She loves her long hair and will stroke at her own shoulder-length hair as if she has beautiful Rapunzel hair, which we tell her she does have,” the Fort Worth mom says. The way a princess looks directly affects the way some children see themselves. School counselor and mental health expert Krista Thompson works with sixth- to 12thgraders in McKinney. She has found that kids exposed to the princess culture could have unrealistic expectations for themselves in their pursuit to be flawless. “Over the years, there has been a fight to change the role [and] perception of women for the better in Disney films; however, there are still lingering negative messages being portrayed,” Thompson says. She explains that boys might believe they need to be “rich, powerful and hold a high role in society to obtain a good, perfect woman.”
“As parents we need to be concerned about our kids’ MEDIA ‘DIETS’ from the beginning and all the way through high school.” These ideals of perfection are obviously unrealistic and damage far beneath the surface. Thompson says that scads of mental health problems can manifest: • Generalized anxiety disorder (from having to be perfect, fearing failure and not meeting expectations) • Major depression (from feeling worthless, inadequate and not capable based on expectations) • Eating disorders (from misperception of body shape and size) • Obsessive compulsive disorder (from fixating on a defect or flaw) • Histrionic personality disorder (from not feeling valuable, lacking self-worth and needing attention from others)
“I make a conscious effort to never mention weight or anything negative body image-wise due to the fact that I had and fought an eating disorder in high school, and I refuse to let my daughter become victim to today’s twisted image of what a girl should look like,” Gilbert says. “I don’t let anyone say words like ‘fat’ or anything relating, and I definitely don’t let people talk about diets.” Thankfully the newer princesses, especially the most recent, seem to fight against the stereotypes of princess culture. Frozen’s Anna is very much a clumsy girl who doesn’t wake up with perfect hair. In fact, she’s a little bit of a mess—like we all are. The ideal princess is becoming more realistic as time continues. In the newer animations, such as Brave and Moana, body shapes are more accurate too— more like real girls. Moana doesn’t have tiny feet and calves, her shoulders are built, and she doesn’t have a narrow waist. Her figure isn’t sexualized to fit some “ideal woman.” Early princesses also had the stereotypical white skin, blonde hair and blue eyes. Starting in the ’90s with Aladdin, Pocahontas and Mulan, we saw a shift in princess appearance. “I think this is good for us,” says Martha Satz, who teaches a course on ethical implications in children’s literature at Southern Methodist University. “It’s pushing at traditional images where we think girls who are beautiful have to be pale. The more and diverse images we can have, the better off we are.” Thompson also feels the newer princesses are positive models for children. Mulan, for example, promotes “the idea of being yourself and standing up for what you trust is right regardless of who disagrees,” Thompson says. “Mulan goes to fight in the war even though she knows it will bring shame to her family. Regardless of gender, this shows the audience a sense of strength, grit and capability.” IDENTITY CRISIS
Although princesses are usually the main focus in films aptly dubbed “princess movies,” the princes play an important role in shaping what our children believe a man should look and act like too. Prince Charming, though his name referred to his intended personality, had one purpose: to risk his life fighting off the villain in order to save the princess. As noble as that sounds, it might put pressure on little boys to think that their only job is to risk their lives for love. For most princes, there was also this mindset that there would be a woman waiting for a prince to come and kiss her. Snow White and Sleeping Beauty could only awaken with true love’s kiss—even if their “true love” was someone they barely knew. The princes kissed
them, and the princesses were saved. (If only it were that easy!) But characters behaving this way can elude boys into thinking that every girl is just sitting around waiting for a prince to physically pursue her, and therefore boys have a right to kiss girls without their consent (yikes). In the early movies, there is a lack of verbal confirmation between princes and princesses during these instances, but in real life, girls don’t usually welcome such forward actions. This can lead to a mess of problems when boys think this is the norm. This is all symptomatic of a major problem with the portrayal of princes, especially in the early movies: Their entire identity revolved around winning over a woman. The princes’ goals very much focused on the princesses. It was all about finding true love or an heiress to the throne. The princes’ own personalities and aspirations weren’t important. In the newer movies, we see more from the princes, such as Tangled’s Flynn Ryder, who was a thief with a good heart. Boys (and girls) see a positive message that people who have done bad things are able to change themselves and their path in life. Or we have Frozen’s Kristoff, who was an ice harvester (not rich and powerful) and was kindhearted. The princes now aren’t always risking their lives to win the princesses and save the day; they are helping the princesses reach their dreams. There were some positive effects for boys in Coyne’s study, such as having better body esteem and seeing men portrayed in a softer light. In media, the message that boys and men need to be aggressive is all too familiar; however, in princess culture, men reveal a much more sympathetic and empathetic side. Boys get to see what love looks like for a man in a way that not all aspects of our culture show. THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER
So far, says Skyla’s dad, the 5-year-old does not seem to be taking in any complex ideas about princesses, such as unrealistic expectations for looks and love. No, what Skyla loves most about princesses is their dresses. She enjoys their visual beauty, but not in the sense that she expects herself to look exactly like them. Her father, Josh Sutton, has made it a point to be honest with his daughter about the fact that princesses are just make-believe. In his opinion, experts are looking too deep into something that is supposed to be a positive beacon for kids. He believes that “princess culture” has been overblown into this idea that children are absorbing these adult problems and suffering from the negative effects. “They are trying to apply these negative things to these kids when they’re having fun,” Sutton says.
Instead, he says, let kids just be kids—they see a character, they love a character, they move on to the next character. Parents like him aren’t seeing these issues that experts are seeing, and maybe it’s because they’re digging for something that simply isn’t there. Sutton and other parents aren’t too worried, but experts still have reservations. The girls in Coyne’s study did not exhibit less healthy views of their bodies after being immersed in princess culture for a year, but Coyne says her study didn’t have the final word on that point—she’d like to revisit her participants in a few years to see if their body positivity changes as they get older. Plano family therapist Christy Doering finds there’s a bigger problem at hand than just princess culture. “As parents we need to be concerned about our kids’ media ‘diets’ from the beginning and all the way through high school,” she says. “Kids are sponges, and they are also smart and resilient. So if we experience media with them from an early age, we can get an idea of how they are thinking of these things.” Ask your child what they are thinking and feeling as they watch movies and TV shows (including princess movies). “Some kids are more likely to follow media cues than others,” Doering reveals. “If you have an especially impressionable child, you will need to closely monitor.” It’s likely that most little ones aren’t going to copy exactly what princesses do, but it isn’t a bad idea to sit down with your child to talk about why things they see in movies aren’t always the best examples. If your kiddo is younger, the movies’ messages might not fully click but can subconsciously change their view of themselves if not monitored. The scary list of effects that Thompson warns about are not guaranteed, but it is better to informed. “There is always a way to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to interacting with your child,” Thompson says. To combat any negative influences of princess culture, Thompson suggests acknowledging the discrepancy between real life and the messages portrayed in TV and movies—in a way that’s age-appropriate. Then teach your child the character traits you’d be proud of such as independence, compassion and genuineness, Thompson says. “Set limits and monitor what your child is exposed to.” Finally, “show genuine concern for your child’s well-being, mental wellness and overall quality of life, while also allowing them to voice their thoughts and opinions, so they feel heard,” Thompson says. “Love, empathy and trust go a long way.”
TALLER TALES
What Martha Satz, assistant professor at Southern Methodist University, knows best is books. Instead of spending time in front of the TV with your kids, think about reading some classic princess books that have positive narratives: JANE AND THE DRAGON BY MARTIN BAYNTON
Jane wishes to become a knight instead of a princess in this series about her adventures. ELLA ENCHANTED BY GAIL CARSON LEVINE
Ella of Frell has the “gift” of obedience, which makes her do whatever anyone tells her to. Ella must figure out how to get rid of her gift, and she falls in love with a prince along the way. THE PRINCESS KNIGHT BY CORNELIA FUNKE
In a family of all boys, this princess is taught all about sword fighting and raising horses. F A N C Y N A N C Y B Y J A N E O ’C O N N O R & ROBIN PREISS GLASSER
Read the series to join Nancy’s endless journey to being fancy—tiara and all. Or check out these other winning tales: NOT ALL PRINCESSES DRESS IN PINK BY JANE YOLEN & HEIDI E. Y. STEMPLE
Changing the stereotypical princess color, this book shows how princesses come in all different colors. THE PRINCESS IN BLACK BY SHANNON HALE & DEAN HALE
Princess Magnolia’s alter ego is a superhero named Princess in Black who protects her kingdom.
PRINCESSES WEAR PANTS BY SAVANNAH GUTHRIE & ALLISON OPPENHEIM
This little princess is not interested in dresses because she loves her collection of pants, but some people don’t think that is princess attire. P R O T I P : Get your little one into Nella the Princess Knight on Nick Jr., an animated series that follows the heroic adventures of Princess Nella.
fortworthchild / september 2019
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Treat your kid like a princess or a rock star with a customizable party at Sweet & Sassy.
BEST KIDS’ PARTIES 2019 your favorite party venues WORDS MAYA BUTLER & SYDNEY BLALOCK-RITCHIE
O
NCE A YEAR THERE IS A SPECIAL DAY THAT OUR LITTLE ONES get to celebrate—their birthday. It’s always a stressful time as you make sure it’s the best kids’ party of the year, but it needs to be even better than last year. We get it; it’s a lot to undertake, so our annual DFWChild Best Kids’ Parties awards—with winners chosen by you—make it easier to put together a celebration that caters to your kids’ interests, whether they’re into nature, animals or video games. Read on for the winners and runners-up to find the best spot for your kiddo’s big day.
BEST FOR ANIMAL LOVERS
FORT WORTH ZOO
The littles ones and you will both have a blast at the Fort Worth Zoo with educational and interactive opportunities. There are several packages available, including Safari Splash, fortworthchild / september 2019
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kid culture / B E S T
KIDS’ PARTIES 2019
19 9 ABOVE // SEE A KID-FRIENDLY SHOW AND GET A BACKSTAGE TOUR AT A CASA MAÑANA PARTY. BELOW // GET WILD WITH EXOTIC ANIMALS AT THE RAINFOREST CAFÉ, A LONG-TIME, LOCAL FAVORITE.
RUNNER-UP: Fossil Rim, fossilrim.org
BEST FOR NATURE & SCIENCE LOVERS
FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY
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Learning meets fun for friends and family of all ages at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Children can have a hands-on, closeup experience with free time to explore the museum. With your own birthday party coordinator, the schedule and all activity details are taken care of to ensure a fun and smooth day. For munch time, snacks, such as popcorn and cookies, are available for purchase. Your child will also receive a T-shirt and birthday present from the museum. There are three different packages with nonmember pricing at $370 and member pricing at $340. Wonder, Imagine and Dream level members receive an additional discount. 1600 Gendy St., Fort Worth; 817/255-9300 fwmuseum.org RUNNER-UP: Botanical Research Institute
of Texas, brit.org
BEST EATERY FOR A KIDS’ PARTY
RAINFOREST CAFÉ
Let your king (or queen) of the jungle roar
with the animatronic animals at Rainforest Café. Kids of all ages enjoy learning about jungle animals such as the red-eyed tree frog, the macaw and the jaguar. In addition to an incredible feast, birthday packages include a wild safari hat, Wild Bunch collectible kid’s plate, invitations and more. Oh, and don’t miss the simulated “thunderstorms” every 20 minutes that make all the animals raise their voices. Contact Rainforest Café to book your event. 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine; 972/539-5001 rainforestcafe.com RUNNER-UP: Babe’s
Chicken Dinner House, babeschicken.com
BEST BIG WATER PARK FOR A BIRTHDAY
GREAT WOLF LODGE
It’s time to get wet and wild as you spend your day splashing and sliding in Great Wolf Lodge’s indoor water park. They have it all, from slides to forts to activity pools. The birthday package includes an hour and a half of decorated party space, cake or cupcakes, pizza, drinks and water park passes. To book a birthday party package, there must be a minimum of 10 guests. All guests must have a wristband to enter the water park. The package is $55 per adult or child, and kids under 2 are free. 100 Great Wolf Drive, Grapevine; 800/693-9653 greatwolf.com RUNNER-UP: NRH2O, nrh2o.com
BEST PARTY FOR HISTORY BUFFS
MEDIEVAL TIMES
Join the royal fun at Medieval Times. Enjoy a four-course feast while you cheer for your knight in the hopes he will be
PHOTOS COURTESY OFRAINFOREST CAFE; CHRIS AND SCOTT MORRIS
Beat the Heat and Savanna Sunrise. Enjoy an opportunity to feed giraffes or have private access to the Safari Splash or even the African Savanna exhibit. Packages range from the Wild Package at $450 to the Wildest Package at $840, which includes giraffe feeding and more. 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth; 817/759-7300 fortworthzoo.org
named champion as he competes in jousting and weaponry. Also, make sure to keep an eye out for the fierce falcon as he takes flight. When you book a birthday party for at least 10 guests at Medieval Times, birthday guests receive a birthday announcement during the show, a group photo, cake, a frozen strawberry slushie in a souvenir castle cup and a cheering banner. You can also download and print Medieval Times birthday invitations for free. Tickets for the dinner and tournament cost $36.95 for children 12 and under, and an additional $10 is added to the ticket price if booking the birthday package. Adult tickets cost $62.95. 2021 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas; 214/761-1801 medievaltimes.com RUNNER-UP: Grapevine Vintage Railroad, grapevinetexasusa.com
BEST MOVIE THEATER FOR A PARTY
COYOTE DRIVE-IN
Bring your pack for a howling good time at Coyote Drive-In. You bring the cake, and Coyote Drive-In will take care of the rest. There are two party packages to choose from for up to 10 guests—it just depends on the month and day. The Sunday–Thursday Coyote Pack can be booked year-round and includes a reserved, decorated picnic table, use of the Coyote Playground, a party host (who takes care of all the setting up, serving and cleaning) and evening movie selections. The Friday and Saturday Coyote Pack includes everything above but is only available August through April. Pricing is listed at $199 and $249 respectively. 223 NE Fourth St., Fort Worth; 817/717-7767 coyotedrive-in.com RUNNER-UP: Cinemark Theatres, cinemark.com
BEST PARTY FOR PERFORMERS
CASA MAÑANA
PHOTO COURTESY OF©ISTOCK
All drama queens and kings will gawk over the live shows at Casa Mañana’s Children’s Theater—where productions such as Jack Frost, Matilda and Shrek the Musical will ensure your guests have a show-stopping time. There are two birthday party packages offered. Upon availability, each package includes show tickets, a dedicated party host, show T-shirt for the birthday kid, specialty drinks for the guests, set-up and cleanup, and a backstage tour. The standard birthday package includes a semi-private party area while the premium birthday package comes with a private party area complete with private bathrooms and entrance—all you have to do is decide which show to see. Pricing starts at $290 for up to 10 guests and depends on the day; you have your choice of Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Email groupsales@casamanana.org or check out their website for more information. 3101 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth; 817/321-5003 casamanana.org RUNNER-UP: School of Rock, schoolofrock.com
BEST PARTY FOR A FRILLY FETE SWEET & SASSY
Does your little one want to feel like a princess or a pop star? Have a day of pampering at Sweet & Sassy. It has everything your little one needs with a kids’ salon, spa and celebration space for your big event. There’s even a pink limo you can reserve for your spa-tacular event. Whether your kiddo wants a
LEFT // Rock and roll for your little’s birthday at School of Rock.
fortworthchild / september 2019
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KIDS’ PARTIES 2019
runway theme or prefers to feel like a rock star, Sweet & Sassy has it covered. Each party package is priced at $289 and is customized with activities and party accessories that match the theme. If you’re looking for a few more options, such creating your own lotion, bath salt or sugar scrub, there are add-ons available. Pro tip: Ear piercing is a huge hit (for a separate charge) with trained technicians and a hot pink ear-piercing throne. 1081 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 150, Southlake; 214/643-8694 sweetandsassy.com/southlake RUNNER-UP: Let’s Pretend Tea Parties, letspretendparties.com
BEST PARTY FOR LITTLE CHEFS
DREAM BIG LITTLE ONE
YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY
For the little chefs in your family, celebrate a birthday with Young Chefs Academy. Each of the party packages is all-inclusive, so you can sit back and let the staff take care of everything from invitations to decorations to cleanup. Each guest will learn some essential culinary skills with hands-on instruction. Book the Classic Pizza Party to learn how to measure, knead and shape your own personal pizza. The package is priced at $350 and includes settings for 15 guests, invitations, balloons, paper goods, aprons, chef hats, and more. Optional extras are available. 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 260, Fort Worth; 817/989-2433 ftworthtx.youngchefsacademy.com RUNNER-UP: Taste Buds Kitchen, tastebudskitchen.com
BEST PARTY THAT COMES TO YOU
GAMETRUCK
Virtual reality comes to your little gamer and company in the form of a high-end Help your little one dream BIGGER with a youth savings account from Unity One Credit Union. With an opening deposit of just $5, you can help them secure a bright financial future! Visit us at www.unityone.org to learn more.
800-628-5517 www.unityone.org Federally insured by NCUA.
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ABOVE // GAMETRUCK BRINGS THE AIR-CONDITIONED FUN WITH THEIR MOBILE GAME THEATER.
mobile game theater, which offers an impressive collection of multiplayer video games and a range of consoles. Want to expend some energy? Use your backyard, front yard or a nearby park as the main arena for a modern LaserTag party, or play an entertaining match of BubbleSoccer. Whichever party you choose, a certified GameCoach will be there to emcee and guide your child through an exciting day of social gaming and fun. Visit the website for pricing and availability. Dallas-Fort Worth; 888/602-4263 gametruckparty.com RUNNER-UP: Mad Science of Dallas and Fort Worth, dfw.madscience.org
BEST PARTY FOR FUN & GAMES
LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER
Enter this Lego world with an indoor playground where kids ages 3–10 can meet their favorite Lego characters and build to their creative heart’s content. Birthday parties include two hours of play, a party host, pizza, soft drinks and an exclusive Lego model for each guest to take home. The party doesn’t stop, because you get all-day admission to Legoland after using the party room. Party packages are $25 per person. There are two party rooms to choose from: a room for up to 30 guests or a room for up to 18 guests. Book at least three weeks in advance by phone at 469/444-3004 or online. 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine; 469/444-3050 dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com RUNNER-UP: Dave & Buster’s, daveandbusters.com
BEST PARTY FOR CREATIVES
PLAY STUDIO
Engage your child’s learning abilities through some serious play. Both small party guests and adults can interact with Play Studio’s unique materials while in the comfort of a relaxing and friendly environment, both indoors and outdoors. New to 2019 are more party options: Small and Simple is perfect for regular play hours for up to eight guests (add an art activity for $5 per child); reserve the entire space for your own private party when choosing The DIY Party for up to 15 children; bring cake and friends and leave the rest to the staff in We’ll Do It; and tailor your child’s party with themed plates, napkins, a cake and more with the Custom Party. Learn more about these packages online. 3005 E. Belknap St., Fort Worth; 817/936-2865 playstudiofw.com RUNNER-UP: Van Grow: Art Studio for Kids, vangrowstudio.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF GAMETRUCK
kid culture / B E S T
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TICKE ON SA TS L NOW! E
Upcoming Special Events Labor Day Train September 2 at 1:15 p.m. Witches Brew Train October 26 at 7 p.m.
For tickets, schedules and train information visit www.GVRR.com or call 817.410.3185.
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kid culture / B E S T BEST PLACE FOR A JUMP PARTY
A progressive curriculum • Small classroom ratios
URBAN AIR
Preschool: 6 wks – 5 yrs School Age: 5–12 yrs
There are more than just awesome trampolines here—a climbing wall, warrior course, tubes playground and more make up the indoor adventure park that will inspire the jumper in any kid, tween or teen. Classic party packages include two hours of exploring the most exciting attractions for your kid and guests. Parents can relax as staff take care of prepping for the party. For tweens and teens, all lights are off as guests play glow-in-the-dark dodgeball and enjoy strobes and lasers as part of the Glow Party packages. Pricing depends on location. Multiple locations urbanairtrampolinepark.com
817-246-1448
501 Academy Blvd., Fort Worth 76108
Free Registration Ballet, Jazz, Acro, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Mommy & Me
artistryelitedance.com
6500 Camp Bowie, Ste 170, Fort Worth 76116 • 817-726-5312
Behavior Problems? We provide services to children and adults. • 1-on-1 in center & in home ABA therapy • Social skills • Community outings
RUNNER-UP: Altitude Trampoline Park, altitudetrampolinepark.com
abainteractive.org 817-849-5802
THE HAPPY LARK
BEST PARTY FOR INDOOR PLAY
Faith-based child care for over 55 years! 3621 TULSA WAY, FORT WORTH, TX 76107
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMLER SWIM SCHOOL; ©ISTOCK
Little creatives of all ages can roam this 1,700-square-foot indoor playspace. Boost your child’s birthday party with a birthday-themed felt on The Happy Lark’s felt board, a personalized parachute song (brand new!) and more. Parents can choose from three party packages, which all include a party lead to help with setup, cleanup and anything else you need. Children can also immerse themselves in new party themes, including Princess Swan, Under the Sea/Shark and Fiesta (add an optional letter board with personalized message or a parachute activity at no additional cost). Parties start at $300. Members get a $30 discount on all party packages. 6012 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth; 682/841-1027 thehappylark.com
Ages six weeks through prekindergarten
817-732-8522
KIDS’ PARTIES 2019
RUNNER-UP: Bricks and Minifigs, bricksandminifigs.com
BEST PARTY FOR TUMBLERS
THE LITTLE GYM
With a name like the Awesome Birthday Bash, your kid’s party will ensure no less than an awesome time for an hour and a half at The Little Gym, a place dedicated to physical development and personal growth. Twelve birthday guests ages 1–12 can burn
LEFT // Tumble and play on your kid’s big day at The Little Gym.
some energy with The Little Gym’s instructor-led games and Lego Juniors or Lego Duplo building activities. Pricing varies by location. Multiple locations thelittlegym.com RUNNER-UP: Lone Star Gymnastics, lonestargym.org
BEST SPORTS PARTY
TOPGOLF
Let the birthday boy or girl practice their swing with as many friends as they want at Topgolf. Kid-friendly menu items lend a helping hand while your child enjoys two hours of gameplay. Complimentary kids’ club, digital e-vites and a dedicated staff are all part of a successful tee-off. (Teen party packages are also available.) Elevate your child’s golfing experience with upgrades such as customizable goodie bags and swing tips from a private Topgolf coach. Packages start at $300 for 12 guests. 2201 E. Fourth St., Fort Worth; 817/349-4002 topgolf.com/us RUNNER-UP: Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington, mlb.com/rangers/ballpark
BEST SWIM PARTY
EMLER SWIM SCHOOL
Make a splash at a swim lover’s birthday at Emler Swim School. No matter the season, up to 30 guests can swim in heated, indoor pools. Safety is Emler Swim School’s top priority during the two-hour pool party, with a certified lifeguard required and a designated water watcher overseeing all the fun. Customized digital invitations are included as well as a private party room for when pool time ends. For an additional $35, hire a Swim Buddy as an in-water party host that keeps guests entertained with games. The cost for the birthday party is $300, and active members receive a 30% discount. Call in advance to book a time and date. 6250 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth; 817/ 737-7946 280 Commerce St., Suite 180, Southlake; 817/552-7946 emlerswimschool.com RUNNER-UP: Aqua-Tots Swim Schools,
aqua-tots.com
HOME OF BALLET CONCERTO 3803 Camp Bowie Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76107
A ceremony to acknowledge and remember our babies who died due to miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant death
FORT WORTH MAGAZINE
Margo Dean Ballet
BEST DANCE STUDIO
Offering ballet for all ages and levels, age 3 to professional. Also flamenco dance, jazz for ballet dancers, adult ballet, and the “real barre” fitness class for adults, and the GYROTONIC® method of physical conditioning.
www.margodeanballet.com 817-738-7915
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FRISCO (469) 362-7227
GRAPEVINE (817) 416-1111
9375 Dallas Parkway • Frisco, TX 75034
407 W. State Hwy 114 • Grapevine, TX 76051
LEWISVILLE (972) 459-7770
PLANO (972) 881-8181
2070 S. Stemmons Fwy • Lewisville, TX 75067
3941 Central Expressway • Plano, TX 75023
BIRTHDAY OFFER!
EVERYDAY OFFER!
BIRTHDAY BONUS
FREE $20
DOUBLE ARCADE PLAY FOR ALL PARTY GUESTS
PACKAGES STARTING AT
1595
$
PER CHILD
Offer to be used on or before 10/30/19. Must mention promo code LMSP20 at time of booking.
Excludes online bookings. Birthday party must be held by December 31, 2019, in order to redeem offer. Offer not valid on holidays or with any other offer or discount. Reservations required, 10 child minimum. Certain restrictions may apply.
*Activities vary by center. Gravity Ropes and Laser Tag have a height requirement of 48” to play.
IN ARCADE PLAY
WITH PURCHASE OF $20 IN ARCADE PLAY!
This offer cannot be combined with any other offers or redeemed online. Free arcade play will be added to a FUNcard (as bonus value) or a game card (as credits) and is valid for arcade game play only. Cannot be used as cash or payment towards other activities, food, beverage, group events or refunded for cash (unless required by law). Valid at all Main Event locations. Offer expires 10/30/19.
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20 F A M I L Y - F R I E N D L Y E V E N T S Y O U C A N ’ T M I S S I N
SEPTEMBER KidsWorld, where you’ll find Legoland builds, Sea Life Aquarium’s touch tank and a blacksmithing workshop. $25 online for the unlimited carnival ride pass. 636 S. Main St., Grapevine; 817/410-3185 grapefest.com
HOW I BECAME A PIRATE
SEPT. 14 // GET YOUR SIDEWALK CHALK OUT, AND LET YOUR IMAGINATION BURST OUTSIDE THE BOX AT THE CHALK ART FESTIVAL IN FORT WORTH.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEAR SOUTHSIDE, INC.; CROCKETT ROW AT WEST 7TH; GRAPEVINE CONVENTION CISITORS BUREAU
SUNDAY FUNDAYS
PA N T H E R I SL AN D PAV ILION September 1 Got your own inflatables in the garage? For the last Sunday Funday of the season, pump the kids up, and float for free in the Trinity River along the shores Fort Worth’s waterfront stage, or rent a tube for only $5 all day. More watersports equipment also available for rent (kayaks, stand up paddle boards, canoes and pedal boats). FREE ADMISSION 395 Purcey St., Fort Worth; 817/698-0700 sundayfundayfw.com
DRAWING FROM THE COLLECTION FOR CHILDREN
MODE RN ART M U SE UM OF F ORT WORTH September 1 Bring your freshly sharpened pencils and a blank sketchbook to the Modern for this art program designed for ages 5–12. On Sunday afternoon, two local artists divvy up the kids by younger
and older age groups and lead drawing exercises based on the Modern‘s galleries. Space is limited. Be sure to sign up at the information desk before the program. FREE ADMISSION
3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth; 817/738-9215 themodern.org
BEDFORD BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL
BEDFOR D CIT Y HALL Through September 1 The secret sauce to a family fun weekend: good food and free admission. Get them both on Friday night when general admission and parking are free at the 11th annual Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival. Check out the complete music lineup online, and come to smell what the pit masters have cooking. $15 weekend passes available online. Saturday and Sunday: $10 online and $15
cash only at the gate. Free for children 5 and younger with a paid adult. 1951 L. Don Dodson Drive, Bedford; 817/952-2128 bedfordbluesfest.com
GRAPEFEST
D OWNTOWN G R A PEVINE September 12–15 Squeeze the most of out your weekend trip to Grapevine by signing up for the GrapeStomp challenge. For a chance to earn the Purple Foot Award, slip off your socks, and step inside a wooden barrel filled with about 18 pounds of grapes. Children age 13 and younger stomp for free. Free festival admission all day Thursday and until 5pm on Friday. General admission: $8 adults; $5 children 6–12 years; free for 5 and younger. Includes admission to the
A RT ISA N CHILDRE N’ S T HE AT E R September 13–October 5 Learn how to sing sea chanteys and say “scurvy dog” when this swashbuckling musical based upon the children’s book by Melinda Long and David Shannon opens at the Artisan. Book your seats for showtimes on Fridays and Saturdays to see the band of comical pirates land at North Beach in search of a new crew member. Runs 55 minutes. $13 adults; $7 children. 444 E. Pipeline Road, Hurst; 817/284-1200 artisanct.com
FRIDAY ON THE GREEN
MAG NOLIA G RE E N September 13 Spread out your picnic blanket or lawn chairs on the
carpet-thick grass at this Fort Worth park, and relax to the sound of four local bands (beginning each hour from 6–9pm). Children’s games and sports equipment available to borrow from the community toy chest. Leashed dogs are welcome but outside food and drinks are not. FREE ADMISSION 1201 Lipscomb St., Fort Worth; 817/923-1649 nearsouthsidefw.org
AN EVENING OF BALLET
W. E . SC OT T T H EAT RE September 14–15 The dancers of Ballet Frontier perform on stage inside the Fort Worth Community Art Center to Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s classical “String Quartet No. 1” and “Wedding Party” composed by the King of Ragtime Scott Joplin. Bring your family’s own aspiring dancers to see the innovative choreography of artistic director Chung-Lin Tseng as well as two contemporary works by Lee Wei Chao and Jay Kim. $25. 3505 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth; 817/852-6887 balletfrontier.org
SEPT. 13 // GATHER ON THE FRESH GREEN GRASS AND ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AT FORT WORTH’S FRIDAY ON THE GREEN EVENT.
fortworthchild / september 2019
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CALENDAR REAL KIDS CASTING CALL
SEPT. 20 // JOIN IN AS BUSINESSES TURN REGULAR PARKING SPOTS INTO CREATIVE SPACES AND PARKS FOR ALL AGES TO ENJOY FOR THE ANNUAL PARK(ING) DAY.
PARTY ON THE PORCH
A MON C ARTE R M U SEUM OF A M E R IC AN ART September 14 The Carter debuts its newly renovated galleries with all-day entertainment at this annual music and arts festival. Come inside to check out the five new exhibitions, then drop by the new Family Pop-up Space in The Lounge. The party continues through the evening with more art-making, food trucks and live music outdoors from The Band of Heathens and Fort Worth musician Abraham Alexander. FREE ADMISSION 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth; 817/738-1933 cartermuseum.org
CHALK ART FESTIVAL
CRO CKET T ROW AT W E ST 7 T H September 14 Encourage your kids to explore their creativity in the children’s chalk art area outdoors at the mixed-use development. For inspiration, take a look at the elaborate art pieces created in real time—from start to finish all in one day—by professional street painting artists. The day also includes games, live music, a photo booth and an amateur artist contest. Vote for your favorite amateur artist by donating to The Art Station, a Fort Worth-based nonprofit organization that offers art therapy and programming to children and adults. FREE ADMISSION 2956 Crockett St., Fort Worth; 817/810-9076 crockettrow.com
MONET – THE LATE YEARS
K IM BEL L ART M U SE UM Through September 15 Prepare yourself and your littles to stand in awe of approximately 60 authentic works by French 34
impressionist painter Claude Monet (1840–1926). The exhibit, on view in the Piano Pavilion, includes more than 20 water-lily paintings. $18 for adults; $14 for children ages 6–11; free for kids under 6. Half-price tickets all day Tuesdays and after 5pm on Fridays. 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth; 817/332-8451 kimbellart.org/exhibition/monet
JOJO SIWA D.R.E.A.M. THE TOUR
TH E TH EATR E AT GR AND PR AIR IE September 17 The 16-year-old Nickelodeon star and her signature hair bows return to North Texas for the second stop on her tour this season. Dance along to JoJo during her rainbow sequin–covered performance, as well as to mother-daughter country music duo The Belles. Regular tickets from $39.75. VIP meet and greets available. 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie; 888/929-7849 itsjojosiwa.com
PARK(ING) DAY
MAGNOLIA V ILL AGE September 20 Near Southside, Inc. participates in PARK(ing) Day—a global effort held on the third Friday in September to temporarily repurpose on-street parking spaces as “people spaces.” For the second year, local businesses and design firms create and display their own spaces on several blocks along Magnolia Avenue and possibly South Main Street. FREE ADMISSION
Along Magnolia Avenue, Fort Worth; 817/923-1649 nearsouthsidefw.org
september 2019 / fortworthchild
HURST C ONFE RE NCE C E NT E R September 21 Want to see your child’s face on the cover of our magazine? Give your kids a chance at stardom by registering them for the 21st annual Real Kids Casting Call and coming to visit reps from our magazine and Kim Dawson modeling agency. Register online now through Sept. 15. Children must live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and be younger than 13 years on the day of the casting call. $35 registration fee per child; $45 registration fee the day of the event for walk-ups. Can’t make it? You’ll have another chance Oct. 12 at The Shops at Willow Bend in Plano. 1601 Campus Drive, Hurst; 972/447-9188 dfwchild.com/realkids
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
BASS PE RFORMA NCE HA LL September 24–October 5 There’s no mistaking that white mask. Christine Daaé and her music tutor/obsessor from the longest–running show on Broadway (more than 13,000 performances) return for the Broadway at the Bass Series as part of its North American Tour. Don’t miss your chance to hear the Angel of Music and see the climactic chandelier crash in Cameron Mackintosh’s production. Tickets from $44. 525 Commerce St., Fort Worth; 817/212-4280 basshall.com
OKTOBERFEST FORT WORTH
PA NT HE R ISL A ND PAVILION September 26–28 Don’t miss accordion-player extraordinaire Alex Meixner, dachshund races and all the savory sausages and pretzels you can handle during this annual German heritage festival. Admission $5 on Thursday, $10 on Friday and Saturday; $15 for three-day pass; free for children age under 12 and a paying adult. Registration required for the Oktoberfest Run und Ride on Saturday. 395 Purcey St., Fort Worth; 817/698-0700 oktoberfestfw.com
ANIMAL INSTINCTS Get to know the tiny butterflies, powerful bison and notoriously mischievous raccoons who call North Texas home during these nature programs— plus celebrate the whimsy of animals through orchestral music. BISON FEEDING HAYRIDES
FORT WORT H NAT URE CE NT E R & RE FUG E September 2 Witness the majesty of the American bison (aka buffalo) by hopping on this group hayride. You’ll assist the staff in feeding bison and learn about the role they play at the nature center. Pre-registration is required for your choice of hayrides beginning at 10am and 1pm. $16 for nonmembers plus regular admission: $5 adults and $2 children 3–12 years. $10 for members. Kids 2 and younger are free. 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth; 817/392-7410 fwnaturecenter.org
CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS
BASS PE RFORMA NCE HA LL September 7 Lions, kangaroos, elephants, swans and more animals come to life—musically, anyway—during this family performance by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. Listen to the music from The Lion King movie, an arrangement of “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” and, of course, the title song “Carnival of the Animals” written in 1886 by Camille Saint-Saëns. $22 adults; $11 children. 525 Commerce St., Fort Worth; 817/665-6000 fwsymphony.org
PRESCHOOL DISCOVERY CLUB
FORT WORT H NAT URE CE NT E R & RE FUG E September 20 and 27 Venture out to the nature center on these Friday mornings for games, crafts and educational programming outdoors. The first day focuses on ancient forests and the animals that call them home, and the second is all about raccoons. Pre-registration is required. $8 per child, plus regular admission: $5 adults; $2 children 3–12 years. 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth; 817/392-7410 fwnaturecenter.org
KIWANIS BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL
SOU T HL A KE TOWN SQUA RE September 21–22 Let sugar-loving butterflies flock—er, fly—to your kids for a quietly thrilling experience at this annual outdoor exhibit of live Texas butterflies. Stay until 5pm on Sunday to witness the butterfly release. $7 adults; $5 children ages 3–12; $24 for a family pack. Proceeds benefit Children’s Miracle Network and other charities. 1350 E. Southlake Blvd., Southlake; 817/703-5266 netckiwanis.org
STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
FA IR PA RK September 27–October 20 Think you’ve seen it all before? You haven’t. New entertainment at the 2019 State Fair includes BMX stunts, Spanish marionettes, feats of strength by actual strongman Mighty Mike and Splashdance, a high-energy performance of professional
dancers and acrobats over the Esplanade fountains. Look online for a full list of events, kids activities and discounts. Adult single day admission is $18 at the gate or $16.50 online; $14 at the gate or $12.50 online for kids 3–12 years. 3921 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dallas; 214/565-9931 bigtex.com
F O R M O R E F A M I LY- F R I E N D LY F U N T H I S M O N T H , C H E C K O U R O N L I N E C A L E N D A R A T DFWCHILD.COM/CALENDAR. A N D W H I L E Y O U ’ R E T H E R E , S I G N U P F O R O U R W E E K LY E - N E W S L E T T E R : THE WEEKEND GUIDE.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATTHEW MURPHY; ©ISTOCK; NEAR SOUTHSIDE, INC.
kid culture /
PARTY DIRECTORY //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
PARTY DIRECTORY
We’ve made it easy to plan the perfect party.
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SERVICE
DESCRIPTION
Adventure Kids Playcare adventurekidsplaycare.com 972/899-9332
Party Place
Adventure Kids Playcare offers flexible birthday party packages to meet the needs of each individual family, so upon arrival you can sit back and enjoy the party! Check with your local center for availability. See ad on page 13.
Alley Cats Entertainment alleycatsbowl.com 817/784-2695
Party Place
With bowling, laser tag, Putt-Putt golf, arcades and more, we have something for everyone. Numerous party packages to choose from on our website. Locations in Arlington and Hurst. Recently voted best place for a party. See ad on page 9.
Alley Cats Entertainment alleycatsbowl.com 817/589-0523
Party Place
With bowling, laser tag, Putt-Putt golf, arcades and more, we have something for everyone. Numerous party packages to choose from on our website. Locations in Arlington and Hurst. Recently voted best place for a party. See ad on page 9.
Artistry Elite Dance artistryelitedance.com 817/726-5312
Party Place
Our birthday package includes your choice of dance instruction as well as a craft or game. We do the set up and clean up for you. For more information or booking, email amber@artistryelitedance.com. See ad on page 30.
Bricks & Minifigs bricksandminifigs.com/grapevine-tx 817/952-7002
Party Place
Hands-on LEGO®-building fun using our 32′ Derby Magic race track! Friends and DUPLO elements also available to ensure everyone’s enthusiastic engagement. Make-YourOwn LEGO® minifigure party favors along with our 80″ TV for lively LEGO®-centric celebrations. See ad on page 28.
Choo Choo Express Trackless Trains choochooexpress.com 214/987-2888
Entertainment
Introducing DFW's exciting new party trains. A safe, fun attraction that can add unique value and success to your special event. A fun ride for everyone from young children to adults young at heart. See ad on page 30.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History fwmuseum.org/about-us/birthday-parties 817/255-9300
Party Place
Children get a hands-on learning experience with an educator and time to explore the museum! The museum is where friends and family of all ages can come together to celebrate while also learning something new. See ad on page 9.
september 2019 / fortworthchild
PARTY DIRECTORY //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
SERVICE
DESCRIPTION
Fort Worth Zoo fortworthzoo.org/birthdayparties 817/759-7200
Party Place
Give your child a once-in-a-lifetime birthday adventure at the Fort Worth Zoo! With customizable party packages throughout the park, the zoo will make your child's party a roaring success.
Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185
Party Place
Home to family-friendly entertainment, Grapevine is the perfect place for your next party! Choose from LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Peppa Pig World of Play, SEA LIFE Aquarium, Grapevine Vintage Railroad, Palace Arts Center and more. See ads on pages 29 and 31.
iT'Z Family Food & Fun itzusa.com 817/283-3700
Party Place
iT’Z the place to party! Tons of indoor fun with bowling, laser tag, rock climbing, bumper cars, arcade and an unlimited buffet! Starting at just $12 per party guest, we make it affordable and fun! See ad on page 12.
Little Gym, The thelittlegym.com
Party Place
With The Little Gym's Awesome Birthday Bash, you have the whole place to yourselves for fun activities created especially for them. Plus we handle everything—set and clean up—it's a wish come true! See ad on page 9.
Main Event Entertainment mainevent.com 972/459-7770
Party Place
Main Event offers team building, corporate event and stress-free birthday packages featuring laser tag, bowling, billiards and the latest fun-filled arcade games. See ad on page 32.
Peppa Pig World of Play peppapigworldofplay.com 214/285-9110
Party Place
Celebrate a birthday with guaranteed snorts, giggles and jumping in muddy puddles at Peppa Pig World of Play Dallas Fort Worth. See ad on page 3.
Play Street Museum playstreetmuseum.com
Party Place
You will not find a party room at Play Street Museum. Instead, when you host a Play Street Museum party, you have private use of our museum for the duration of your event! See ad on page 13.
Play Studio playstudiofw.com 817/936-2865
Party Place
Play Studio offers an enjoyable and creative space to hold your child’s birthday party. Options range from Small and Simple and DIY parties to “We’ll Do It all” theme parties. Custom party planning services available. See ad on page 9.
Rainforest Cafe rainforestcafe.com 972/539-5001
Party Place
Try our special Wild Bunch Birthday Bash menu, which includes a children's menu activity book with crayons, wild safari hat, Wild Bunch collectible kid's plate, birthday bash invitations and envelopes. See ad on page 13.
REC of Grapevine, The gograpevine.com 817/410-3455
Party Place
The REC of Grapevine offers dedicated rental spaces for your next birthday party, team meeting, workshop, baby shower and more. If you have a special occasion coming up, celebrate at The REC of Grapevine.
Reunion Tower reuniontower.com 214/712-7040
Party Place
Have a ball at the best party destination in Dallas! The GeO-Deck will take you 470 feet to the top where you can explore the indoor/outdoor observation deck, high definition cameras, interactive technology and more.
Urban Air Adventure Park urbanairparks.com 800/960-4778
Party Place
Take your child’s birthday party experience to the next level with the birthday party experts at Urban Air! With more attractions than any other trampoline park, it’s the perfect place for stress-free birthday parties. See ad on page 15.
Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery vetroartglass.com 817/251-1668
Party Place
Vetro provides a party atmosphere where you can discover the World of Glassblowing. Reserve your date to experience hot glass birthday parties, family outings, and gettogethers in a creative venue for all ages! See ad on page 13.
fortworthchild / september 2019
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confessions
I TOLD MY DAUGHTER WE DON’T HAVE TO TAME HER HAIR IF SHE DOESN’T WANT TO BECAUSE SHE’S BEAUTIFUL JUST THE WAY SHE IS. THEN I TRIED TO COMB HER HAIR ONE DAY, AND SHE TOLD ME, ‘NO, DON’T COMB IT, MAMA. I PRETTY.’ I COULDN’T EVEN ARGUE WITH HER.”
MOM TRUTHS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN
When I picked up my son from school he said, ‘I know Miss K loves to gamble, and that’s the reason she goes to Vegas every now and then.’” —AMRUTA, PLANO
—KENYAIELLE, FORT WORTH
38
COMPILED BY LISA SALINAS
september 2019 / fortworthchild
“Surely a baby can’t poop in the time it takes you to get the diaper pail right by your feet—wrong! Sneezes while changing are dangerous too. Moral of the story: Never have baby on the changing table without a diaper.” —ANASTASIA, CARROLLTON
“Preston has chapel Wednesdays, and he must wear his chapel dress attire. Halfway to school I realize he’s in regular uniform. I forget what day of the week it is at times.” —MARIE, DALLAS
Got a parenting fail you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you. Send it to editorial@dfwchild.com.
MY NONBILINGUAL CHILD TELLS ME, ‘MOM, I LEARNED A NEW WORD IN SPANISH CLASS! DID YOU KNOW THAT “NO” IN SPANISH IS “NO” IN ENGLISH?’ AT THIS RATE, I’M NOT SURE WHEN HE WILL BE FULLY BILINGUAL.” —CARMEN, FORT WORTH
I dropped my 2-year-old and my 4-year-old off at school then headed to the car. My 2-year-old’s teacher met me at the door with my son’s open lunchbox saying, ‘You forgot to pack his lunch!’ I had put in a freezer pack and bib, but no lunch.” —LISA, GRAPEVINE
You’re in for a surprise. After an exciting You’re You’re in for in for a surprise. a surprise. After After an exciting an exciting renovation, we’re transforming way you can You’re in for a surprise. After anthe exciting renovation, renovation, we’re we’re transforming transforming the the way way youyou cancan experience American art, with reimagined renovation, we’re transforming the way you can experience experience American American art, art, withwith reimagined reimagined galleries, expanded exhibition spaces, and new experience American art, with reimagined galleries, galleries, expanded expanded exhibition exhibition spaces, spaces, andand newnew events. Always free. Always inspiring. galleries, expanded exhibition spaces, and new events. events. Always Always free. free. Always Always inspiring. inspiring. events. Always free. Always inspiring. Discover the new Carter. Discover Discover the the newnew Carter. Carter. CARTERMUSEUM.ORG Discover the new Carter. CARTERMUSEUM.ORG CARTERMUSEUM.ORG #CARTERART CARTERMUSEUM.ORG #CARTERART #CARTERART @THEAMONCARTER #CARTERART @THEAMONCARTER @THEAMONCARTER @THEAMONCARTER
AMON AMON AMON CARTER AMON MUSEUM OF CARTER CARTER MUSEUM MUSEUM OF OF AMERICAN CARTER AMERICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM OF ART ART ART AMERICAN ART
ARTISTS ARTISTS ARTISTS ARTISTS REINVENT REINVENT REINVENT REINVENT THEMSELVES. THEMSELVES. THEMSELVES. THEMSELVES. MUSEUMS DO TOO. MUSEUMS MUSEUMS DO DO TOO. TOO. MUSEUMS DO TOO.
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