NORTHTEXAS
THE MAGAZINE PARENTS LIVE BY IN DENTON COUNT Y
O C T O B E R 2019
21
EVENTS TO LOVE THIS MONTH
MEET ARTIST
GRACIE PIPER
KID CULTURE HOW TO CHOOSE AN INSTRUMENT
+
HOW TO THROW A PEPPA PIG PARTY
A FAMILY GUIDE TO
BENTONVILLE
BRAIN BREAKS THE LATEST SCHOOL TREND
ART SMART HOW THE ARTS SHAPE YOUR KID’S BRAIN
pages / O C T O B E R
2019 NORTHTEXAS
DEPARTMENTS NOTED 7 Gimme a Break
Local schools are adding more play- time to the curriculum—here’s why
REAL MOMS 11 Mom Next Door / Gracie Piper
11 ABOVE // Artist Gracie Piper says there was a major shift in her work once her boys came on the scene.
FEATURE
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The Denton painter and illustrator talks about her new series—appropriately, on motherhood 14 4 Things... / Portfolio Take a page from Gracie Piper’s sketchbook and look for creative inspiration at these local spots 16 Routines / Leah Johnson Two adult kids, two 10-year-olds and one artisan jewelry business keep this Denton mom busy
KID CULTURE 27 Rhythm & Choose What musical instrument is right for your child?
30 Celebrate / Party With Peppa
18 Art on the Brain Why your STEM-minded child needs the arts too words Sundey McClendon
Inspiration for a Peppa-themed birthday
32 Travel / Rich in History
Your family travel guide to Bentonville from a B’ville mom
41 Calendar / The Agenda
Our favorite family events this month
COLUMNS
ON THE COVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY JAMES; NICK PRENDERGAST; ©ISTOCK
Cover Kid: Kendall, 5, Valley Ranch Photography: Cindy James Hair/Makeup Artist: Susie Jasper / Seaminx Artist Management Art Direction/Styling: Heather Vance Devers Wardrobe: Hey Gang
PUBLISHER/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joylyn Niebes CREATIVE + CONTENT DIRECTOR Heather Vance Devers EDITORIAL Executive Editor Carrie Steingruber Managing Editor Elizabeth Quinn
Assistant Editor Maya Butler Editorial Intern Emily Yearwood Calendar Editor Elizabeth Smith Digital Editor Sydney Blalock Ritchie ART Contributing Editorial Designer Lesley Busby
4 dfwchild.com / Off the Pages
Kendra Scott with a cause, the coolest new toy store and more words Sydney Blalock Ritchie
46 Confessions / Mom Truths
Ever send your kid to school in the wrong outfit? You’re in good company
Graphic Designers Susan Horn, Ariana Leyva
Advertising Coordinator Alexa Wilder
CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT LARGE Lauren Niebes
PR/MARKETING Audience Development Director Candace Emerson Promotions Coordinator Tram-Anh Le
ADVERTISING Account Executives Alison Davis, Kristen Gramling, Mendy Lea, Nancy McDaniel, Diana Whitworth Nelson, Sandi Tijerina
ADMINISTRATION Business Manager Leah Wagner Accounting Jeanie Vance
NorthTexasChild is published monthly by Lauren Publications, Inc. NorthTexasChild is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only NorthTexasChild authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. Additional or back copies of NorthTexasChild are available for $2 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. NorthTexasChild is ©2019 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.
northtexaschild / october 2019
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online / D F W C H I L D . C O M WORDS SYDNEY BLALOCK RITCHIE
OFF THE PAGES
what’s in store this month on dfwchild.com
OCTOBER: ONE OF THE BEST MONTHS IN NORTH TEXAS. The temperature is close to perfect and football season (and hockey season—we see you, Stars) is in full swing, baby. There’s a lot happening this month, and we can help you navigate it all. For example, Autumn at the Arboretum runs through Oct. 31, Coppell’s Shakespeare in the Park is Oct. 3–13, the Renoir exhibit at the Kimbell starts Oct. 27, and the list goes on and on. You can find all the info you need for these events and more online as well as in the Agenda on page 41. To get more info on what’s coming up, visit dfwchild.com, where you can sign up to receive this magazine in your mailbox every month and our e-newsletter every week.
Beauty With a Cause
This year, Susan G. Komen estimates that there will be over 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer. This particular form of cancer has impacted jewelry queen and mom favorite Kendra Scott, so we spoke with the Texas-based company about how they’re stepping up to the fight—and how you can too.
Available at kendrascott.com
What’s the Scoop?
Do you like to be in the know? With us, you can be. Each week we’ll be highlighting what’s going on around town in Scoop, our new online spot to keep you informed on events, news releases, store and restaurant openings, and more. Find it on our homepage.
An interactive toy and home goods store from New York City is opening a location in North Texas this month. At CAMP, the whole family can shop, play and create together—think woodsy cabins and campsites combined with a trampoline and magicians. We’ve got the latest on this not-to-be-missed opening. 4
october 2019 / northtexaschild
©ISTOCK; KENDRA SCOTT; CAMP
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noted. BELOW //
PHOTO COURTESY OF FRISCO ISD
Brain breaks, a part of a pilot program in Frisco Independent School District, are an extension of socialemotional learning.
GIMME A BREAK a local pilot program is bringing more playtime to schools WORDS
MAYA BUTLER
W
HEN FRISCO MOM OF FOUR SARAH MCMULLIN AND HER FAMILY MOVED
from Utah to Texas, she discovered that most schools here offered only one recess a day—a far cry from the two to three recesses her daughter Hero was used to at her Montessori program back home. “She would come home, and she was just grumpy,” McMullin says. “She had no energy for after-school activities.” She became one of the original members of the Facebook group Frisco Parents for Recess, which pushed for more playtime in Frisco Independent School District. Children need 60 minutes of “moderate to vigorous activity per day,” according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. The desire for children to have more playtime outside is not just about physical activity, however. “It’s important to learn addition and subtraction and all that, but it’s just as important to learn how to talk to people and how to resolve conflict with people—and that’s where the power of play comes in,” McMullin says. The solution: brain breaks. northtexaschild / october 2019
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noted / G I M M E
A BREAK
WHAT’S A BRAIN BREAK? and build positive relationships with peers. McMullin’s stress about her kids’ minimal “We know those are really important playtime was relieved with the introduction skills, not only in the classroom but in the of brain breaks. The pilot program, started by real world that they’re going to need to be the district last year, offered five elementary masterful at,” she explains. schools 10–15 minutes of additional free play for students, on top of the 30-minute recess THE POWER OF PLAY that students get each day. The purpose “Children, from time of birth through early of the program? To give children a muchchildhood, need to play often in their lives— needed break from the classroom and further their bodies need play,” says Debbie Rhea, develop their social-emotional learning, says a professor at Texas Christian University Christy Fiori, managing director of elemenand director of the Let’s Inspire Innovation tary schools in Frisco ISD. ’N Kids, or LiiNK Project. The initiative Besides the freedom to play however partners with schools for a minimum of they choose, kids have access to resources to three years to give elementary students four engage in play with one another, including 15-minute unstructured recesses throughout hopscotch rugs, hula hoops, life-size the school day, with goals similar to versions of Jenga, chess and those of the brain breaks program Connect 4, and pits for gaga in Frisco. ball, a dodgeball-like game Districts such as Arlington, where the object is to avoid Eagle Mountain-Saginaw, getting hit below the knee. Little Elm and Irving have Fiori reminds parents, adopted the LiiNK Project. however, that the pilot proCollectively, those districts gram isn’t just another recess saw a 25% drop in off-task and shouldn’t be called one. The behaviors (such as fidgeting shorter duration and the varied and moving around locations distinguish during class) during brain breaks from trathe first year of the ditional recess, Fiori program. Launched in 2013 by Texas Christian says—unlike recess, Rhea adds that University professor Debbie Rhea, which takes place playtime helps the Let’s Inspire Innovation ’N Kids, or on the playground, decrease obesity LiiNK Project, promotes playtime and a brain break can and other diseases character development in elementary happen elsewhere, while boosting kids’ schools. Want your school to try it such as a courtyard or immune systems and out? Share the video on the program’s a hallway. And brain their ability to learn. homepage (liinkproject.tcu.edu) with breaks have a different “They are building your child’s school principal or district function. a lot of neurological “We’re calling it highways in their superintendent, along with the other something different brains to be able to research and resources available on from recess because retain more informathe site. If school administrators are we really see it as tion,” she says. interested in collaborating, they can an extension of that Hale, mom to reach out to the LiiNK Project for social-emotional triplets August, Luke more information. learning,” Fiori and Henry, says she explains. recognized a change While she says the in her boys after the reactions from parents were “overwhelmadvent of brain breaks at their Frisco elemeningly positive” after the pilot program’s tary school. launch, some parents voiced a primary “There was less fighting at home after concern. school,” Hale says, noting a particular change “Other parents had questions, concerns that in her son Luke, who has dyslexia. “Reading the break would take away from their child’s and spelling are a little bit more difficult for education,” says Frisco mom Ashley Hale. him, so I think it’s really helped school feel Fiori acknowledges that class time does not as tasking for him.” decrease by 10–15 minutes but clarifies that The brain breaks program is still in its the minutes taken away are spread out and pilot run but has been expanded to all 42 not concentrated in one subject. And brain Frisco ISD elementary schools this school breaks are intended to advance the children’s year. With the expansion of the program education, just in a different way. Students and others like it in local districts, it seems are encouraged to collaborate with one like parents who want more playtime are being heard. another in the classroom, but Fiori says social “The power of play is huge for a child,” interactions during brain breaks are another McMullin shares. way for them to learn problem-solving skills 8
october 2019 / northtexaschild
PHOTO COURTESY OF FRISCO ISD
LiiNK Up
northtexaschild / october 2019
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Event Information: Thursday, October 24th, 2019 | 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm The Courtyard Marriott – Flower Mound 4330 Courtyard Way, Flower Mound, TX 75028 Registration is required and seating is limited. Reserve your spot today. Please RSVP at: pamela.petrides@phfmtexas.com or 469-322-7085.
Texas Health Flower Mound is a joint venture owned by Texas Health Resources and physicians dedicated to the community. Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of the hospital. *Breast Screenings are not complimentary during the event, however, we are extending our hours of service at the Women’s Imaging Center for walk-ins during the event. Breast screenings are NOT required to participate in the event.
real moms. BELOW //
In her new home studio Gracie Piper is discovering how motherhood can inform her art.
OUTSIDE THE LINES AGE 29 HAILS FROM Shepherd, a one-stoplight town northeast of Houston LIVES IN Denton ALMA MATER University of North Texas for watercolor and visual arts studies SIGNIFICANT OTHER Husband Ryan, art director at Music Bed. “Ryan is so great at keeping us moving in terms of accomplishing tasks but without losing sight of the things we value. He’ll set a 30-minute timer for cleanup, and once it goes off, it’s time to go to the park or play a game with the boys, no matter how many dishes are left in the sink. It’s so easy for me to carry the weight of all of our needs all of the time, but being reminded to be present and make intentional space to connect with each other is so important.” OFFSPRING Theo, 4, and Maxwell, 1 ½ WHERE TO FIND HER ART graciepiper.com
mom next door /
GRACIE PIPER mark maker INTERVIEW CARRIE STEINGRUBER PHOTOGRAPHY NICK PRENDERGAST
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T’S A STUDIO DAY FOR GRACIE PIPER, WHICH MEANS SHE HAS THE HOUSE TO
herself while her husband is at work and the boys are at preschool. “I just got some fresh paper, which is the best,” she says. Clad in overalls, Piper gives a tour of the family’s new home, a ranch in a rambling, tree-shaded neighborhood. Her 4-year-old has tacked up a masterpiece in the foyer, and some of Piper’s figure drawings and watercolors decorate the playroom, but the house is still a work in progress. Piper admits the “in-process-ness” can be a distraction—on days like this, time in her sunroom-turned-studio has to be sacred. “I have to protect that—it’s not social time, it’s not errands time, it’s time for me to just be creative,” she says. “At first, I was not great about it. I’m like, ‘Oh, but the house is messy…’” After her first was born, Piper says she viewed “mother” and “artist” as conflicting identities; now, she’s figuring out how they can work in tandem. → northtexaschild / october 2019
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real moms / M O M
NEXT DOOR
NorthTexasChild: What are you working on right now? Gracie Piper: I’m starting a new
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series, and it’s actually on motherhood, also dealing with some grief. NTC: Some personal grief for you? GP: It is something I’ve wanted to address through my work for a few years now but haven’t fully let myself go there. When I became pregnant with my first child in 2015, I also lost my sister to domestic violence. This loss changed a lot for me, and coping with it has been a major part of my life. While I am not sure if it will somehow fit into the motherhood series, I know it is a topic that I will continue to move towards.
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october 2019 / northtexaschild
like that was more of a struggle before kids, because I feel like now the struggle is more I have all of these feelings and thoughts and not enough time. NTC: What about for “you” time? How do you take care of yourself? GP: Mental space
NTC: Is the new series going to be more along the lines of your line drawing figures or your landscapes? GP: I am actually trying to
time looks like bike rides, time outside, yoga, gardening. And then for social and emotional time, meeting with my friends. We have something called WACPAC, which is hilarious—it’s wine and cheese, pajamas and chocolate. We don’t do it often enough, but it does happen, and it’s the best. And then I on Wednesdays do an acting class. It’s Meisner technique, so it’s all about engaging emotion and reacting to people.
NTC: What themes of motherhood are you looking to explore? GP: My own experiences
Actually in high school I did acting competitively, and then thought I would go to school for acting and decided to do fine arts instead. But the itch has still been there. [Laughs.] I like to do everything! With little time that can be problematic.
merge the two, which I haven’t done yet, because they are two very different styles. The landscape, that was more pre-children, and then after children there was a big shift in my art style. This is kind of bringing the two together now—hopefully!
Find a store near you or shop online at
NTC: Have you ever had a period where the creativity just ran dry? GP: Honestly, I feel
as a mother, just daily moments. Then also I want to take a look at other mothers—single working women, stepmotherhood, mothers who have lost children, mothers of twins (my best friend is a mother of twins), the loss of a mother, feeling like a bad mom, feeling like a good mom. Those are some themes that I’m starting with—looking at the women close to me and making visible some of the traits that I see within their motherhood.
NTC: Have you always been interested in acting, or was that just sort of a whim? GP:
NTC: What is it about fine arts that draws you in? GP: [As a kid] I would just lock
myself in my room. My mom never suppressed me creatively, and I would just go crazy making my wall my canvas, like nailing shoes and magazine cutouts and things. I don’t think I could exist without creating. I feel like art can be so powerful. A lot of times it’s treated as just this extra thing in the world, but I think without it, it would be very dim and dull.
“I LIKE TO DO EVERYTHING! WITH LITTLE TIME THAT CAN BE PROBLEMATIC.”
NTC: You said the style of your work changed once you became a mom. Has the creative process changed too? GP: Yes, definitely.
I used to be able to just lock myself away for hours. Now, art is much slower of a process. Even playful things, like my birth announcement for my first son—I did a stop motion animation, and I knocked it out in no time. I tried to do it for the second one, and I actually didn’t complete it until after he was born. It just took so much longer. There are so many inconsistencies, which is kind of cool, because I look at it, and I can see motherhood in that. NTC: Do your boys ever want to be involved in the creative process? GP: Yeah, which is
fun. I’ll try to set them up their separate things, just on the floor, and we make a mess together. But surprisingly neither one of them are super drawn to art.
NTC: What is it like having two creatives in the house? GP: It’s very helpful to have some-
one else with that kind of brain to give feedback that I can trust. He’s never just going to be like, “Oh, it’s great!” He’ll be honest or help me get through a struggle with something. NTC: What is your favorite piece you’ve ever done? GP: There is a painting called Bridge
that means a lot to me. It’s very dark, and it has two cliffs and a little teeny tiny bridge going across it. It’s about times in life of uncertainty or fear, and it’s just showing it’ll be OK, even if you have to take a step out in faith—there’s another side. NTC: When do you consider a piece finished? GP: Oh, hardly ever. There are times
when I’m like, “OK, it’s done,” but maybe I’ll see it in a year and think otherwise. They’re all works in progress, I think.
real moms / 4
THINGS …
INTERVIEW CARRIE STEINGRUBER
PORTFOLIO an array of art spots and getaways that inspire gracie piper
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FO R A FI N E A RT S FIX g “I like the Dallas Museum of Art, I like the Nasher Sculpture Center, The Modern in
FO R A N I N S PI R I N G G E TAWAY
Fort Worth, 500X and Galleri Urbane. I just went to Galleri Urbane for the
first time, and they had a great contemporary selection. I’ll definitely go back there.” DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART // 1717 N. Harwood St., Dallas; 214/922-1200; dma.org NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER // 2001 Flora St., Dallas; 214/242-5100; nashersculpturecenter.org MODERN ART MUSEUM OF FORT WORTH // 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth; 817/738-9215; GALLERI URBANE // 2277 Monitor St., Dallas; 325/226-8015; galleriurbane.com
FO R G I F T S
FO R A RT O F A LL KI N DS
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THE BELMONT HOTEL IS A 1940S BOUTIQUE HOTEL THAT’S BEEN RESTORED, AND IT ALWAYS MAKES FOR AN INSPIRING GETAWAY. THEIR GARDEN AND BUNGALOW ROOMS WITH EXTERIOR ACCESS ARE THE WAY TO GO, AND IT’S JUST 10 MINUTES FROM THE DMA AND MANY OTHER GREAT DALLAS ATTRACTIONS.
DENTON HAS ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL EACH YEAR. WE LIKE GOING TO IT; THERE’S ALWAYS GREAT MUSIC. AND THEN WE ALWAYS STOP BY THE UNT CLAY GUILD AND BUY A PIECE—IT’S A FAMILY TRADITION, SO EACH YEAR WE GET SOMETHING CERAMIC FROM THAT.
“I could get lost in Recycled Books. Love it there. And then the DIME Store also has some great, local handmade things that I can appreciate.”
DENTON ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL // 321 E.
5688; recycledbooks.com DIME STORE // 118 E. McKinney St., Denton; 940/381-
THE BELMONT HOTEL // 901 Fort Worth Ave.,
McKinney St., Denton; dentonjazzfest.com
2324; dimehandmade.com
Dallas; 214/393-2300; belmontdallas.com
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october 2019 / northtexaschild
RECYCLED BOOKS, RECORDS & CDS // 200 N. Locust St., Denton; 940/566-
NICK PRENDERGAST; PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE DENTON ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL; NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER; THE BELMONT; THE DIME STORE
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themodern.org 500X GALLERY // 500 Exposition Ave., Dallas; 214/828-1111; 500x.org
Thanksgiving Week Fun for Kids Ages 3-12! 9am - 4pm Daily. ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: GOBBLE TIL YOU WOBBLE! COOKING & BAKING! ARTS & CRAFTS! SLIME-MAKING TIME! WONDERS OF SCIENCE! ...AND MORE! Flower Mound • Fort Worth Frisco • Highland Village McKinney • North Dallas Plano • Southlake
northtexaschild / october 2019
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a thursday in the life of
LEAH JOHNSON Jewelry designer and metalsmith Leah Johnson owns LJ Artisan Designs, an online artisan jewelry business. She and her husband, Greg, live in Denton and have four kids: Hannah, 23, Olivia, 20, Caroline, 10, and Luke, 10.
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AM I wake up (Greg is already up and at the gym), and after a quick stretch and a big glass of water, I make sure that my two youngest kiddos are awake. (They wake up to their own alarm clocks, but you just never know.) Once I have a cup of tea in my hands, my brain is starting to fire properly! My twin 10-year-olds, Luke and Caroline, are doing well fixing their own breakfasts and school lunches, but I’m there for assistance if they need it, which they are more than happy to accept. It’s a lively morning filled with Harry Potter references, questions of who is our favorite historical person and singing TV show theme songs. 7AM As the kids wait for their ride to school (I’m so thankful for my carpool), I hear them laugh together outside, and it warms my heart. They often bicker, but they also have great moments like this one. I take some time to read the Gospel reading for the day and do my morning prayer. I eat a quick breakfast and clean up the kitchen. (Yep, the
dinner dishes from last night still need to be cleaned.) I get dressed and ready for the day while I listen to a podcast. I can’t get enough of small business podcasts. 8:30AM I say good morning and chat with Olivia, who is up early for her summer job. And then it’s into my studio to start the workday. I do a little organizing, check my calendar and sort through emails. 9AM A customer comes in to find a birthday gift for a friend. We find just the right item and visit for a few minutes. 9:30AM I review a quote from a vendor and jot down questions to ask at our next phone meeting. 10AM Today is Style Box by LJ packaging day! This is my monthly jewelry subscription service. I have to make a couple more items for new members and photograph them before I can start packaging. 12PM I break for lunch. I’d like to say that I mindfully chew each bite and enjoy my lunch slowly, but in all honesty, I use this precious time to check email and check in on my Facebook business page and Instagram page. 12:30PM Back in the studio, I reach out to the nonprofit organization that I’ll be supporting next month to schedule their trunk show. Ten percent of my sales proceeds go to different local nonprofits. 1PM Another customer comes to pick up some earrings that she needs for an upcoming wedding. 3PM I leave to do the afternoon carpool. My car will be filled with active (and hungry) kids anxious to tell me about their school days. 4:30PM I’m back home, and the kids are having a snack and getting started on their homework. I’m headed back to my studio to continue Style Box by LJ packaging. 5:40PM The twins and I leave to take Luke to his martial arts class. Greg and I are tagteaming this one. I’ll drop off, and he’ll pick up. I head home to fit in some exercise. 7PM Everyone is home for dinner. It’s breakfast food for dinner tonight—sometimes you have to press the “easy” button. I chat with Olivia about her day at work and hear about the twins’ day at school. After dinner, we discover that we have absolutely no dog food left for our two dogs—that’s when an older, driving-age child comes in very handy. I also text back and forth with my oldest daughter, Hannah. She is winding up her college career and is starting the job search process. I’m reminded that with kids, the days go by slowly, but the years fly by! 8:45PM After a fierce Uno game (Mom went down in flames), the little ones are off to bed. Greg and I catch up on how our days went. He is an entrepreneur-slash-business
Diaries are penned by moms (and dads) in the North Texas area. The authors volunteer to share a day of their choosing and are not paid or endorsed by NorthTexasChild. Send your diary to editorial@dfwchild.com. All submissions are subject to editing and may be cut for space. 16
october 2019 / northtexaschild
PHOTO COURTESY OF COURTNEY GONSOULIN
real moms / R O U T I N E S
the fine
10 A.M. to 2 P.M.
SATURDAY OCT. 12
WHAT SHE’S READING The Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon HER GO-TO FOR RETAIL THERAPY Lately, it’s been Anthropologie. DREAM JOB AS A KID
Interior designer. (If I had known about metalsmithing and jewelry making, that would have been it!) HABIT SHE CAN’T QUIT Staying up too late WHY SHE CHOSE TO LIVE IN DENTON We’ve adopted Denton as our home. We love the friendly, artistic and accessible atmosphere and love our community of friends and family here. FAVORITE VACATION A beautiful tropical beach with my husband, a steel drum band playing and a cocktail with an umbrella in it FAVORITE INDULGENCE Taking a day to just sit by the pool and read all day long WHAT’S IN HER NETFLIX QUEUE Blue Bloods and my old standby, Friends FAVORITE DATE NIGHT SPOT Barley & Board, and we love to have a cocktail and appetizers at Queenie’s Steakhouse (both awesome places to eat in Denton). FIRST CELEBRITY CRUSH Matt Dillon FAVORITE MOVIE Top Gun (I’m a child of the 80s!) BEVERAGE OF CHOICE A good chardonnay BEST PURCHASE EVER Sleep Number bed MOTHERHOOD IN FIVE WORDS Amazing, ever-changing, HARD, letting go (OK, I know that’s two words), gift BEAUTY
WHISTLESTOP PLAZA 123 W. IRVING BLVD.
TRUNK PUMPKIN DECORATING ‐or‐ TREAT CARNIVAL GAMES MAZE
PICK A free pumpkin PATCH FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT IRVINGEVENTS.ORG OR CALL (972) 721-2501.
PRODUCT SHE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Benefit
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE; ILLUSTRATION BY ARIANA LEYVA
Boi-ing concealer— hides the late-night circles under my eyes!
owner as well, and he is one of my business mentors and my biggest cheerleader in this entrepreneurial craziness. 9:30PM With Olivia off chatting on the phone with her best friend (and soon-to-be roommate) and Greg off to bed, I’m headed back to the studio to clean up the style box packaging mayhem that I left earlier. I hit the computer to work on the technical aspects of the “What’s Your Jewelry Personality?” quiz that I’ve been working on. The last thing I do is to plan my schedule for tomorrow. 11:30PM After chastising myself yet again for staying up too late, I head in to get ready for bed. It’s quiet in the house, and I take a moment to thank God for this family and the love that we have for each other. It’s certainly crazy and not anywhere near perfect, but it’s mine, and I love it! northtexaschild / october 2019
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october 2019 / northtexaschild
Your kid is into science or math. How can the arts give them an advantage in the classroom and, eventually, the workforce? WORDS SUNDEY MCCLENDON
PHOTOGRAPHY CINDY JAMES
northtexaschild / october 2019
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ARRANT COUNTY mom Seleena Carroll was in search of balance. Her 13and 7-year-old daughters excelled at dance and music, so she started seeking out fine arts schools for them. But something was missing. “We were looking for a school that would allow them to be in musicals or choir but also had very stringent academics, and it was kind of hard to find,” she says with a laugh. “The schools we looked at were very imbalanced.” Carroll finally landed on All Saints’ Episcopal School in Fort Worth, which she believes offers a balanced blend of art and academics. The mom feels that both elements are necessary for her daughters to succeed. “My oldest daughter wants to be a surgeon, so she needed a strong science department as well as fine arts education,” she explains. “Fine arts is an outlet for my girls. It helps with anxiety and risk-taking.” Carroll’s hope for a more holistic approach to her kids’ education is backed by science: Research has shown than art and science-based learning share a closer link that we might think, and that academic performance and general well-being are both heightened by the inclusion of fine arts in learning. This research, combined with a movement away from “test-based learning” to a more holistic career-readiness education, is causing a revival of fine arts in schools, after widespread struggles for funding in recent years. As North Texas schools move from a STEM model (science, technology, engineering and math) to a STEAM model (emphasizing art in the curriculum), the importance of art to the growth and development of our tech-minded kids is becoming clear—and having art on the brain might even set them up for a more successful future.
WELCOME BACK TO THE CLASSROOM
DeSoto art teacher Cynthia Garrison is in her 17th year of teaching, and she is overjoyed to see the arts finding new meaning and value for children. But why are the arts finally getting the credibility they deserve? “We are teaching art in a different way now,” Garrison says. “On every campus I have been at, there is an alignment with what students are doing in the classroom. This reinforces basic concepts in a much more hands-on way.” The idea that art has a place in other disciplines is not new; studies have shown a direct correlation between mathematicians and musical ability, and art has long had applications in engineering and science. Only in relatively recent years (meaning the turn of the 20th century), as the Second Industrial Revolution started to shape education into a specialized model, was art parsed out as a discrete subject and not taken as seriously, since it was not needed to educate industrial workers. Now, as the United States moves toward a 20
october 2019 / northtexaschild
STEM-based economy, those highly valued jobs in science, technology, engineering and math require a different type of education, one that allows for creation, collaboration and problem solving, and art is moving back into the picture. Evidence that supports the inclusion of the arts in the 21st-century curriculum is abundant: The National Endowment for the Arts found that a child who studies the arts is four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement. A study published by Americans for the Arts reveals that sustained music and theater education correlated to higher achievement in math and reading. That’s because art shapes the brain in ways that can help all students, not just those who have a knack for creative activities. Garrison understands the need for art not only as a teacher, but also as a parent. Her youngest son, who is now 23, was inclined to “more left-brained thinking,” as Garrison puts it. He excelled at school from an early age, but Garrison says she could see the need for the balance that art could give him. “When he was young, he had a teacher who was very excited about his potential, and he was in an academically rigorous class,” she explains. Still, something was missing. “We actually had him moved to a class where he could be more creative,” she says. “It was important to me to develop the whole child, and I think that is one of the many benefits of art education.”
INTRODUCING THE WHOLE BRAIN
Previously, the notion that “left-brained” children are exclusively inclined to more logical pursuits while their “right-brained” counterparts are more adept at creative endeavors, such as the arts, might have made parents feel that they had to pick one track for their child’s ultimate academic success. But new findings show that “left brain” and “right brain” are not so clear-cut. Andrea Davis, a Dallas-based art therapist, says new research into stroke victims is showing that people who damage the right side of the brain are still able to participate in artbased pursuits, leading many therapists and scientists to believe that art touches more parts of our brain than we previously realized. She states that the “either/or” notion of science vs. art is not true to what we know about how our minds work. “Techne is actually the Greek word for ‘creativity,’ so I don’t really see how it can ever be separate,” she argues. (Editor’s note: Techne is often translated as “art” or “craft”—it refers to making or doing as opposed to knowing.) A recent cognitive research study in
Germany found that creating art actually stimulates interaction between different parts of the brain, with German neurologists Anne Bolwerk and Christian Maihöfner noting an increase in functional connectivity in the brains of people who actively engaged in art. Eric Jensen’s book on neuroscience and education, Arts With the Brain in Mind, conjects that art is much more than a brain booster—it is more of a brain food: “The systems [that the arts] nourish, which include our integrated sensory, attentional, cognitive, emotional and motor capacities are, in fact, the driving forces behind all other learning.” Jensen’s thoughts are supported by a growing body of research that suggests music training enhances brain functions in both hemispheres, including cognition, language acquisition and sensory processing. In other words, learning to play an instrument prepares the brain to acquire other knowledge too. The visual arts have a similar effect. “We are still learning all the time that there is so much more to learn about how art affects the brain,” says Davis, “but what we know right now is that it goes far beyond a left brain or right brain functionality to the importance of art on the whole brain.” Garrison agrees that art is integral in creating a well-rounded learner. “Art touches everything,” she explains, “from the use of all of our senses when we create art, to developing language and math skills, to understanding scale and design. It is a huge part of learning.” She points out that art is often first to introduce engineering concepts, such as scale and negative space, the use of a grid and the principles of design. “Something like spatial relationships, that is a fundamental of art but also of science,” she says.
FULL STEAM AHEAD
Many North Texas schools are now making that same connection between science and art. They hear the demand for STEM-based jobs and the benefits of art and blend them together to create STEAM curricula, where art meets STEM to produce a well-rounded learner. Larry Labue is the executive director of the Allen STEAM Center through the Allen Independent School District. He says that Allen ISD heard the call from local companies for graduates to be more well rounded in content, soft skills and blending STEM skills with creative and artistic design—and the arts are the answer. “There is a huge market for STEM-based jobs but what we were hearing from employers was the need for an emphasis on creativity and collaboration,” he explains. “Art does that.” Labue, a former science teacher, was on the
committee to help create the STEAM Center and says that building art into the curriculum is natural, because just as math exists in sciencebased activities, many principles of art, such as spatial awareness and design, are found in science as well. “Even as we were thinking about what the actual building would look like, we were using art as a principle of design,” he explains. “Design is a huge element of engineering. Our high school students study interior design for that reason.” Engineering is the sweet spot where science and art most frequently meet in education, says Labue. STEAM curricula integrate the arts in a number of ways, but central to each school’s teaching method is the engineering design process, a combination of the scientific method and artistic creation. During the engineering design process, students identify a problem then come up with possible solutions by building models or making sketches. For instance, let’s say the problem is plastic straws and the students are tasked with creating an alternative. The students would identify the problem, sketch a prototype of the solution, use a 3D printer to create it and then test and tweak the model, combining the creativity of art with the scientific process to mimic the way we seek solutions in the real world. “In a job, we rarely differentiate between subjects,” Labue points out, explaining that the engineering design process is a whole-brained approach that powers the STEAM learning model. “Our teachers have interdisciplinary conversations—they pull in threads of different subjects to create lessons that bring in art with the STEM learning.” At the heart of the STEAM movement is balance. “We are trying to create a student who is well rounded and ready for whatever the future holds,” says Labue. “In creating the STEAM Center, we have created that balance to prepare them.” The idea that STEAM students have a competitive edge in the workforce is also backed up by clinical studies. Research done by Michigan State University psychologist Robert RootBernstein has put a fine point on the matter: Most Nobel Prize–winning scientists and their high-achieving peers all dabbled in fine arts, while their “less successful colleagues” did not. Davis, the art therapist, says the connection between art and STEM is foundational. “Art is really the only subject that integrates all other subjects,” she points out. “Whether we realize it or not, we use math, science and language to create expression through art.” She believes that excluding art from the curriculum might be short-changing students not just in their education but also their whole well-being. “It’s just smart to approach it with a holistic approach,” she says, noting that the benefits of art go far beyond education, extending to how kids handle their emotional health in a turbulent world.
ART & THE HEART
As a therapist, Davis urges parents to consider art education as an important part of creating a whole-brained child who can function in a 21st-century classroom—and world. Cynthia Garrison, the art teacher, agrees. “Art is therapeutic,” Garrison explains. “It’s very calming, and the art room is generally a peaceful place where kids can be both relaxed and engaged.” She believes that art fills an important space in our mental health—a place where we can allow our minds to relax but continue to work. Garrison feels messages about the value of art sometimes get muddled by parents who fixate on the “starving artist” stereotype and do not realize the influence of art on other pursuits, or on a child’s holistic development. “Don’t view it as a negative thing,” she says. “You certainly can use art in almost any job to give you a skill set that will set you apart, but most importantly, art is self-expression and risk-taking. It’s important to encourage it.” Davis echoes the benefits of art on a disquieted mind, pointing out that in a time when childhood depression and anxiety are at an all-time high, art gives children a way to selfregulate and process their feelings. This socialemotional learning piece, perhaps more than academic readiness, is an invaluable tool for today’s children. “Being able to externalize things in a way that words don’t express—the visual process of it—is healing,” she explains. She reveals that depression, even in creative kids and teens, can manifest as a sort of stress paralysis that can be overcome through art. “When we are doing art,” Davis says, “we are helping them access a part of them that helps them to make choices.” Her assertion is backed up by a National Institutes of Health research publication, “The Connection Between Art, Healing, and Public Health: A Review of Current Literature,” which states that “creative expression” through art is healing to the parts of the brain affected by depression. Recently, researchers at the University of California, Irvine, found that music also promotes social-emotional health, specifically social skills and self-esteem, by allowing artists to take risks and make mistakes in a safe environment. Seleena Carroll sees these social-emotional benefits of art at work in her daughters. “It gives them a chance to work out their own kinks, and I am such a fan of that,” she says. She believes that the combination of creative and rational elements that her girls are getting at their new school is vital to their growth in and out of the classroom. Garrison agrees that art can make any child stronger—as a student and as a person. “Art opens your mind to see the world in a different way,” Garrison explains. “It’s the opportunity to expand your outlook and perception, to take chances and become as wellrounded as possible. It’s for everyone.”
Building Little Learners
Nancy Bernardino, principal of the STEAM-based Solar Preparatory School for Girls in Dallas, says that parents can and should incorporate STEAM themes into early learning whenever possible. “Parents may be more STEM-focused, but I hope they consider adding the arts because that’s where the innovation happens,” she explains. Exposure to the arts enables growth while giving kids the freedom to get messy, she adds. “It eliminates the idea that things have to be completely perfect.” She says mixing in art with early education should be easy and fun. “Three- to four-year-olds are already predisposed to STEAM learning,” she says, “because the root of STEAM is curiosity, and they are so naturally curious.” In North Texas, we have a wealth of resources for STEAM learning. Bernardino offers a few ideas that will take you out of the house: • Visit a museum that mixes science and art. “The Perot Museum does a great job at integrating the arts,” she says. • Make Lego masterpieces at the Legoland Discovery Center. “Our kindergartners start out using Legos to build creativity.” • Attend a children’s theater performance, which exposes children both to the theater and to principles of design as they study the set and how it works in the space. Overall, Bernardino says anything that brings a sense of wonder to a child is good for building a STEAM mindset. “Our goal is to keep the child curious,” she explains.
Art Smart
It’s no secret that science-minded parents are driven by data, and the data supporting a strong foundation in the arts are plentiful:
• Students who are involved in the arts are
four times more likely to participate in a math or science fair, three times more likely to be elected class officer, and three times more likely to receive an award for school attendance, according to the National Endowment for the Arts.
• College Board data show that students
who take four years of fine arts classes average almost 100 points better on their SATs than their peers who take fewer art classes.
• A University of Pennsylvania study reveals that low-income students who are highly engaged in the arts are more than twice as likely to graduate college as their peers with no arts education, and have a dropout rate five times lower than their peer group.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF MUSIC & ARTS
Whether your kiddo is ready to rent or buy an instrument, Music & Arts offers both options.
RHYTHM & CHOOSE how to pick an instrument WORDS MAYA BUTLER
S
O YOU’VE DECIDED TO NURTURE THE BUDDING MUSICIAN INSIDE
your child, or maybe your kiddo up and chose band as an elective. Now what? The next step—choosing an instrument—might look like a giant question mark right now. With so many choices, how does your child decide what instrument they would be best at or enjoy the most? While kids are often encouraged to play any instrument they choose, Andre Yanniello, coowner of Williamson Music 1st in Plano, says some instrument pairings are discouraged. “Students that are not well-matched with their instruments, they’ll quit early because they’ve not achieved a level of success that they want,” he explains. So how do you find a good match? → northtexaschild / october 2019
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kid culture / R H Y T H M
Get Involved OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP YOUR COMMUNITY
& CHOOSE
ABOVE //
Find video lessons, as well as band and orchestra instruments, at Williamson Music 1st.
THE RIGHT FIT Still, space has to factor into the decision for Yanniello says a child’s physical characterissome families, especially with large instruments. tics are factors when it comes to guiding your “Some people really don’t have the room child to the right instrument. for a piano, so then they might choose the “If they have really thin lips, then they’re violin or guitar for that reason,” Gray says, most likely to be really successful on the mentioning digital keyboards as a way to save trumpet or the French space and money. horn,” he says, whereLaura Glidden, a as a child with thicker, local lesson manager The last—and arguably the most crucial— rounder lips would be for Music & Arts, aspect of choosing an instrument is the better suited to a low reveals that strings brass instrument like question of renting or buying. such as the popular the trombone, bariviolin are also good “It’s always the most cost effective to tone or tuba. for little musicians work with the music company to rent Size also matters— due to their adaptthe instrument in at least the first year,” at least to an extent. ability. “Strings are explains Andre Yanniello, co-owner of While some instrua really great option Williamson Music 1st in Plano, “because ments such as tubas for a student, or really most instruments, like cars, as soon as come in different sizes any age, because like you drive them out a lot, they begin to to accommodate differa guitar, they make decrease the value.” ent body types, smallthem in all different framed players tend sizes,” she says. One option is renting to own, which to have a harder time allows you to put your rental payments THE INTANGIBLES holding up large instrutoward the full cost of the instrument Yanniello shares that ments, Yanniello says. until your child is the proud new owner. in orchestras, the He adds that finger But according to Laura Glidden, a local bassoon and oboe secdexterity contributes lesson manager for Music & Arts, if your tions are often small, too. If your child can child is fully committed to playing their owing to their playing alternate tapping their instrument, buying instead of renting difficulty and intimifingers to their thumb dating appearance. repeatedly with ease, saves money in the long run. The most difficult then they’re a potential instrument a child will candidate for woodever play, however, is wind instruments such their first instrument, says David Boswell, coas the flute; brass instruments (most of which owner of Music Go Round in Fort Worth. have only three valves) are better for shorter And your child’s gender? Turns out it fingers and average finger flexibility. isn’t important. One instrument that kids, especially “I don’t really find a lot of sexism in beginners, generally do well on is the piano, instruments,” Boswell says. “I think you says Vicki Gray, owner of Gray School of have musicians who play any instruments.” Music in Dallas. “There is a seven-, eight-key The flute has often been associated with piano—we have one of those at our school— female musicians and bigger instruments which the little kids just love to play on,” she with males, but Boswell attributes this way of explains, “because the keys are not as big and thinking to old-fashioned societal norms. the octaves are not as wide.”
GIVE ME A CHANCE. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME.
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october 2019 / northtexaschild
PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDRE YANNIELLO
To Rent or To Buy?
TRY & BUY
Touch and try out instruments at these local events:
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra hosts instrument petting zoos in the Meyerson Symphony Center lobby before every family concert. Your child can try a variety of instruments on Dec. 7, 2019, at the Family Christmas Pops (tickets from $59) and May 30, 2020, at Presto Mambo (tickets from $10). The instrument petting zoo starts at 10am, one hour before each show. 2301 Flora St., Dallas; 214/849-4376; mydso.com The Dallas Zoo and the Dallas Winds are collaborating for a concert on Jan. 14, 2020, featuring The Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saëns and Scott McAllister’s Flight of the Elephant. The concert begins at 7:30pm and, kids can join in the fun with an instrument petting zoo from 6:30–7:15pm and during intermission. Tickets from $34. Email todd@dallaswinds.org for more information. 2301 Flora St., Dallas; 214/565-9463; dallaswinds.org Like past Family Series concerts, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s Halloween Spooktacular on Oct. 26 will include an instrument petting zoo. Tickets for the Bass Hall event are $22 for adults and $11 for kids. 525 Commerce St., Fort Worth; 817/665-6000; fwsymphony.org Kids 8–14 can try out tubas, saxophones and more when music students from the University of North Texas bring instruments to Denton’s North Branch Library on Oct. 5. The instrument petting zoo starts at 2:30pm; free. 3020 N. Locust St., Denton; 940/349-8761; dentonlibrary.com
Then put your money where your mouthpiece is at these music stores: Guitar Center offers a wide range of band and orchestra instruments online for your child to choose from, but hopeful players can try out guitars, banjos, drums and keyboards in store. 2610 W. University Drive, Suite 1210, Denton; 940/382-2317; guitarcenter.com Murphy’s Music Center sells both new and used instruments to fit your budget. Kids can try their hand at a guitar, keyboard or ukulele. 940 W. Airport Freeway, Irving; 972/554-6030; murphys-music.com
©ISTOCK
Find an eclectic range of instruments and accessories as well as private lessons at Music & Arts. Instruments from woodwinds to guitars are available for rent or purchase. 360 E. FM 3040, Suite 820, Lewisville; 972/315-8400; musicarts.com
Yanniello agrees. “We really try to break down the gender specifics on those to encourage students to play whatever they like,” he says. Outside of physical characteristics, there are several elements that influence which instruments kids are naturally drawn to. For example, if you or a close relative owns an instrument at home, then that exposure could spark a desire in your child to play that instrument, says Gray. “But a lot of it is the mindset of the child,” she adds. What music your child listens to on the radio (or anywhere else) can impact their taste in music and instruments. Sure, there are technical considerations to mull over, but in the end, experts recommend encouraging your child to play whichever instrument interests them the most—that’s what’ll have the most staying power. “What inspires your kids?” says Glidden. “What do they get excited about? What motivates them? Because that’s what they’re going to be drawn to.” northtexaschild / october 2019
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kid culture /
CELEBRATE
2
1
a pig-perfect birthday WORDS ELIZABETH QUINN
4
B
EFORE THERE WAS
5
1 / Guests had a plethora of dessert choices, including Peppa-themed cookies, and Rice Krispies treats dipped in candy melts. 2 / Kiddos took home a personalized Peppa and George piggy bank. 3 / Each partygoer had a birthday hat waiting for them. 4 / The rainbow and cloud balloon masterpiece stayed on the bannister well after the party. 5 / Aasha’s third birthday was so fabulous she couldn’t wait to plan her fourth. 30
october 2019 /northtexaschild
“Baby Shark,” there was Peppa Pig. She’s taken over Dallas-Fort Worth—especially with the addition of Peppa Pig World of Play at Grapevine Mills. So when Frisco mom Charmaine Thompson asked her daughter Aasha what theme she wanted for her third birthday party, Peppa was a no-brainer. Thompson started the planning herself, but after realizing she was overwhelmed, she called in party planner Jessica Fresch of Fresch & Fancy. Fresch spent more than 50 hours putting together inspiration boards and meeting with Thompson to create the perfect day for Aasha. Guests were greeted outside Thompson’s home by a giant “3” made of pink and white balloons while cutouts of Peppa’s friends were planted in the bushes. Inside the house, there were balloons everywhere, including life-size balloon renditions of Peppa and George and a rainbow-and-clouds arrangement on the banister. (It stayed up for a while after the party,
Thompson admits.) For the dining room, Fresch spray-painted stools white, topped them with cardstock Peppas and attached tutus under the seats. Plates shaped likes suns and daisies rested on artificial grass placemats. Right on theme, there were endless fingerlicking food options, from Muddy Puddles Pudding (chocolate pudding in a jar with crumbled Oreos) to George’s Dinosaur Sandwiches (turkey sandwiches cut into dinosaur shapes). Parents weren’t forgotten thanks to cupcakes infused with Crown, Cîroc and Patrón. When it was time for treats, the dozens of guests indulged in all the sweets from macarons made into Peppa’s face to a two–tiered vanilla cake topped with a princess Peppa. The party was full of Mummy Pig–approved activities, including a face painter and a Peppa piñata, and Peppa and George even showed up to entertain. At the end of the extravaganza, kiddos took home personalized piggy banks along with a custom coloring book page.
PIG OUT BALLOONS Balloon Therapy balloontherapy.co Balloons Now balloonsnow.com ENTERTAINMENT It’s A Party Today itsapartytoday.com MACARONS We the Birds Macarons wethebirdsmacarons.com Karl’s Macarons karlsmacs.com
SWEETS Cakeism Dallas facebook.com/cakeismdallas Jazzy Infusions jazzyinfusions.com The Dough Bar thedoughbar.com MOBILE DRINK BAR Jedidiah Coffee jedidiahcoffee.com PIGGY BANKS Kute Kustom Kreations santaelvesworkshop.etsy.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF GREY PHOTOGRAPHY
PARTY WITH PEPPA
3
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kid culture / T R A V E L
2
where to go in bentonville, according to a local WORDS ELIZABETH QUINN
F
OR 10 GREAT YEARS,
I lived in Bentonville, Arkansas—home to the famous Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and Walmart. But the secret to Bentonville’s allure that has kept so many families in the area and visitors coming back is the quaint community that holds it together and the locals’ knowledge on the best spots to visit. Mom of two boys Regina Barnes has lived in Bentonville for over 20 years and knows that area like a Walton knows a Walmart. She let us in on where to find the family fun.
FOR THE
4
32
TRUE BENTONVILLE EXPERIENCE
The Bentonville Square is the hub of Bentonville. From First Fridays to Saturday Farmers Market, there is always something going on. Pro tip: If you visit in the summer, the splash pad at Lawrence Plaza, which is right off the Bentonville Square, will be running, but if you go in the winter, the splash pad turns into an ice skating rink with Christmas movies playing on a huge projector next to the rink. Located on the square is The Spark Café Soda Fountain, which makes the ’50s ice cream parlor dream a reality. It’s attached to The Walmart Museum and came about because Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart, loved butter pecan ice cream. Find a jukebox and employees wearing bowties and paper hats all in the ’50s fashion. If you make your way to the museum, be sure to browse around the front to look at all the retro toys and candy from Walton’s childhood. “[The kids] like to walk through the museum [and] ask if their daddy has worked on any of the signs in there—he’s an artist in Walmart Corporate Marketing,” Barnes says.
october 2019 / northtexaschild
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FOR THE LEARNER
Drive just a couple of minutes away from the Bentonville Square to find the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Admission to Crystal Bridges is always free, unless you want to see the special exhibitions for the season. The first room in the museum has art from the colonial era, and as you walk through the museum, you walk through different eras of paintings, sculptures and photographs until the end, which houses the modern art. There’s a kids’ area, The Studio, where little ones can engage in activities that rotate throughout the months. For a full interactive experience, take the children to the neighboring kids’ museum, the Scott Family Amazeum. Littles can interact through science, technology, engineering, art and math activities, or they can stretch their legs through the Canopy Climber, an indoor climbing play area. “[My boys] love playing in the area that’s set up like a warehouse,” Barnes says. “There are blocks that they put on a device to move upstairs, where another child gathers them in a bin and delivers them back downstairs.” There’s also a grocery store and diner for kids to pretend play, as well as a natural outdoor play area. Admission is $9.50 for age 2 and up.
FOR THE OUTDOORS KID
Located in the Natural State, Bentonville houses multiple breathtaking trails and parks that will
1 / Walton’s Five and Dime has an assortment of retro candy and toys. 2 / The Ozark Trails are perfect for hiking, biking or walking the dog. 3 / Hike the Tanyard Creek Natural Trail to see the hidden and beautiful waterfall. 4 / Kiddos can explore STEAM activities and more at Scott Family Amazeum.
even make the kids say, “Wow!” The art trail, part of the Ozark Trails, that is behind Crystal Bridges has both paved and dirt trails for hiking. Along the way, you can spot different sculptures to pose next to. For a local experience, hike on Bella Vista’s Tanyard Creek Nature Trail (a short drive from Bentonville) to reach the waterfall, where kids can splash in the water or at least get a selfie to document that you made it. “I always have a backpack while hiking,” Barnes says. “It includes drinks and snacks, and we always take empty cups and nets because the kids love to try to catch fish.” FYI: Look for #BentonvilleRocks, which are painted rocks that people hide around town for others to find and then rehide. Search the Facebook page Bentonville ROCKS to see where different people have taken the rocks. THE WALMART MUSEUM
walmartmuseum.com
CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART
crystalbridges.org
SCOTT FAMILY AMAZEUM
amazeum.org
OZARK TRAILS
crystalbridges.org/nature
TANYARD CREEK NATURE TRAIL
beautifulbellavista.com/tanyardcreek.htm
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WALMART MUSEUM; AMAZEUM; VISIT BENTONVILLE; BELLA VISTA PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
CULTURED FAMILY G U I D E
From exhibits and festivals to museums and gardens—there is no shortage of cultural escapes in North Texas. Read on to find a roundup of destinations offering enriching programs and activities that will broaden your family’s horizons, right where you live!
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october 2019 / northtexaschild
CULTURED FAMILY GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Get Art Smart at IAC! YEAR-ROUND ART AND FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Irving Arts Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate Institution located in DFW, offers a rich environment for families to experience the arts. IAC is open seven days a week—stop by and peruse free-toview exhibits in our five galleries and our Sculpture Garden. Plan a monthly outing the first Thursday of each month for JumpstART Stories & Art, a free story and craft time for kids. Or come for a Second Sunday Funday, another free program where parents and kids work together to craft masterpieces. In December, Irving Arts Center transforms into a Winter Wonderland of decorated trees; and you can visit St. Nick on Santa Saturdays. Our annual open house event is Dec. 6 and includes free holiday festivities. Parking is free.
Irving Arts Center irvingartscenter.com
Free at IRVING ARTS
CENTER Smithsonian Affiliate
Second Sunday Funday
JumpstART Stories & Art
2nd Sunday of every month
10 AM • Free
1-4 PM • Free • OCT 13 ANIMALS, ANIMALS EVERYWHERE! • NOV 10 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GEORGIA O’KEEFFE!
1st Thursday of every month • OCT 3 ¡CELEBRAMOS! HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH! • NOV 7 ANIMAL TALES!
Open 7 days a week • Free parking 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. • Irving, TX 75062
IrvingArtsCenter.com
northtexaschild / october 2019
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CULTURED FAMILY GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Engage with the Arts at Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater THE MCL GRAND MAKES ART ACCESSIBLE TO THE COMMUNITY The Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater, better known as the MCL Grand, is the center of southern Denton County’s performing arts community. More than 300 public events take place at the center annually, including many kid-friendly performances and classes. In addition to a 296-seat performance hall, a 160-seat black box theater and a large recital hall, the building houses a 2,200-square-foot art gallery. Visitors to the MCL Grand can also explore the center’s locally-created Chalk Art Walls. Memorable works of art are well-known within the building, but visitors are also encouraged to explore the Old Town Lewisville area, where several new permanent public art pieces are being installed this year.
Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater mclgrand.com
Inspiration, Culture and Arts for Everyone • Live theater productions • Broadway-style musicals • Award-winning performing artists • Holiday productions • Art gallery exhibits and workshops
MCLGrand.com
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PHOTO COURTESY OF ED STEELE PHOTOGRAPHY
Tap Into Our Talent
CULTURED FAMILY GUIDE //
Bring Denton County History to Life The Denton County Office of History and Culture serves to preserve local life through its 1896 Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum and the Denton County Historical Park. Hands-on activities include a vintage grocery store where visitors can play, card cotton and design a quilt square. Photos, a Texas history timeline and historical data help families imagine how past generations worked, lived and played.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Where Science and History Come Alive Dedicated to lifelong learning and anchored by rich collections, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History engages our diverse community through creative programs and vibrant exhibits. The museum houses a variety of exhibitions, including DinoLabs, Energy Blast and the Fort Worth Children’s Museum. The museum is also home to the Omni Theater, an IMAX dome and the Noble Planetarium.
Denton County Office of History and Culture
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
dentoncounty.gov/chos
fortworthmuseum.org
WE DARE TO DREAM
NOW ON EXHIBIT!
LAUNCHPAD APOLLO 11 Promises Kept Introducing
V-DROME 2020
fortworthmuseum.org northtexaschild / october 2019
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CULTURED FAMILY GUIDE //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Flutter into Grapevine This Fall
Preserving the Art of Classic Ballet
Flutter into fall at family-friendly events throughout Grapevine. Celebrate the monarch butterfly as they migrate from Canada to Mexico. Wear your best butterfly costume, and release one of the more than 700 monarch butterflies into the sky. Head across the street to Nash Farm for the annual Fall Round-Up, a family agriculture festival with a pumpkin patch, pie making, pony rides and more!
Experience the 14th year of Le Ballet de Dracula, an original ballet at the MCL Grand Theater, Oct. 11–12. Kids can come in their Halloween costumes to participate in an onstage costume contest, and Saturday matinee tickets provide children with free admission to the Bride Workshop. And mark your calendar for the 29th annual Nutcracker, Nov. 25–26; Spring show Mixed Program, April 3–4.
Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau
Lakecities Ballet Theatre
grapevinetexasusa.com
lakecitiesballet.org
All Aboard For Fun!
STEP ABOARD the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Travel in authentic 1920s Victorian-era coaches from Grapevine’s Cotton Belt Depot to the Fort Worth Stockyards. Grapevine Vintage Railroad also hosts several special event trains throughout the year. Trick ‘r Treat Trains October 26 & 27 at 1:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.
www.lakecitiesballet.org
For tickets, schedules and train information visit GVRR.com or call 817.410.3185. 38
october 2019 / northtexaschild
30406_GCVB_Child_Mags_Train_Events_Oct_2019_ad_v2.indd 1
9/6/19 11:57 AM
Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater nancy loch photography
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NANCY LOCH PHOTOGRAPHY
October 11, 7:30 pm October 12, 2 & 7:30 pm
CULTURED FAMILY GUIDE //
Vetro Glassblowing Studio Fine Art Gallery
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
An Arts and Entertainment Go-to for Families
Vetro is a state-of-the-art Glassblowing Studio and Fine Art Gallery located in the heart of Grapevine. Vetro showcases cutting-edge artwork by acclaimed glass artists ranging from one-of-a-kind sculptures to small glass art gifts. Vetro offers opportunities for guests to create their own artwork or attend admission-free glassblowing. Visit our gallery to shop professionally handcrafted art glass, or schedule a glassblowing event today!
Visit Mineral Wells, where fun and adventure run deep. Dig for fossils, test your rock-climbing skills, become a butterfly with one of our amazing murals. Whatever your family enjoys, Mineral Wells is the perfect weekend getaway. Enjoy a great festival? Come see us for Crazy Water Festival in October or Merry Wells Christmas Festival and Lighted Christmas Parade in November. Mineral Wells: Where Texas Runs Deep.
Vetro Glassblowing Studio Fine Art Gallery
Mineral Wells Convention and Visitors Bureau
vetroartglass.com
visitmineralwells.org
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october 2019 / northtexaschild
the agenda HILD.COM
R DAILY E
VISIT
FO
DF
WC
V
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WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH
21 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
OCTOBER
began. Join participants around the world by venturing out locally to Explorium and exploring your creativity during this make-and-take craft day. Supplies are provided. Free with admission: $6 adults; $5 children. Free for Explorium members. 5800 I-35 North, Suite 214, Denton; 940/595-4001 exploriumdenton.org
DOGFEST WALK ’N’ ROLL
OCT. 11 // WATCH KIDS COMPETE TO BE THE BEST CHEF AT MASTERCHEF JUNIOR LIVE! IN GRAND PRAIRIE.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE; SCRAP DENTON; MASTERCHEF JUNIOR LIVE!
TUCK EVERLASTING
C AS A M AÑANA October 4–20 Casa Mañana opens its children’s theater season with this play based on the bestselling children’s classic by Natalie Babbitt. Eleven-yearold Winnie Foster discovers the Tuck family’s secret to eternal youth and faces the choice of how to live out her own life. Tickets from $15. 3101 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth; 817/332-2272 corinthpumpkinpalooza.com
PINKERTON
T H E AC TORS C ON SERVATORY T H EAT RE October 26–27 The lovable, but not so bright, dog from the children’s book series comes to the children’s theater stage in Lewisville. See this live show based on A Rose for Pinkerton, Pinkerton, Behave!, and Pinkerton & Friends by author and illustrator Steven Kellogg. $14 adults; $10 students; $9
children 3–9 years. 359 Lake Park Road, Suite 118, Lewisville; 972/436-8228 getintotheact.org
FALL FROLIC
BIODIV ER SIT Y EDU CATION CENTER October 5 Play a game of “I Spy” to explore the Coppell Nature Park from an animal’s point of view. This annual program features face painting, live music and eight activity stations along the mile-long trail. You’ll discover how bats “see” at night, help seed the Blackland Prairie and celebrate Arbor Day in the outdoor classroom. FREE 367 Freeport Parkway, Coppell; 972/304-3581 coppelltx.gov/bec
CREATIVE REUSE CARNIVAL
SCR AP DENTON October 5 The nonprofit creative reuse craft store and donation
center off the Denton square seeks to fill minds, not landfills, by hosting this day of makeand-take crafts, carnival games and outdoor activities for ages 4–12. Admission is $5 for kids and includes crafts and a photo booth. Free for adults. $1 per ticket for games. Want to stock up on supplies? Come Oct. 4–5 with $5 to fill a bag at the garage sale inside the store. 420 S. Bell Ave., Denton; 940/808-1611 scrapdenton.org
BAY LOR SC OT T & WHIT E HE A LT H – KINKE A DE CA MP US October 5 In keeping with its motto, “Give a dog a job,” the national nonprofit Canine Companions for Independence trains assistance dogs and matches them to human companions with disabilities. Help keep this service free of charge by joining the local chapter for an annual family fun day featuring dog demonstrations, live music and a dog costume contest. Free registration; fundraising is encouraged. 7710 Las Colinas Ridge, Irving; 214/259-4700 cci.org/dogfestdfw
AUBREY PEANUT FESTIVAL
AUBREY FE ST I VA L G ROUNDS October 5 The least loved ingredient in trail mix gets its time to shine at this charming, small-town festival honoring its heritage crop. The revelry kicks off with a parade down Main Street at 10am followed by a carnival. Come check out or join in the peanut butter cup relay, peanut butter sandwich eating contest and more contests throughout the day. FREE 301 S. Main St.; Aubrey; 940/343-1313 aubreypeanutfestival.com
MASTERCHEF JUNIOR LIVE!
T HE T HE ATRE AT G R A ND PR AI RI E October 11 The hit TV culinary competition MasterChef Junior goes on the road with its first live tour this fall. Love the show? Look online to see which all-stars and fan favorites from previous seasons are returning to go head-to-head in the kitchen. Tickets for this all-ages show
GLOBAL CARDBOARD CHALLENGE
EXPLORIUM – DE NTON C HILDRE N’ S MUSE UM October 5 In 2012, a 9-year-old boy named Caine spent all summer building an elaborate cardboard arcade inside his dad’s used auto parts store. (Look up the short film Caine’s Arcade.) From there, the Global Cardboard Challenge
OCT. 5 // COME RAISE MONEY FOR CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE AT DOGFESTWALK ’N’ ROLL IN IRVING.
northtexaschild / october 2019
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from $29.75. Book the VIP experience for a picture with the cast and a signed cookbook. $50 adults; $30 for kids 11 and younger. 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie; 888/929-7849 masterchefjuniorlive.com
LE BALLET DE DRACULA
M EDICAL C E N TE R OF LEW IS V I L L E G R AN D T H EAT E R October 11–12 Before turning their sights to The Nutcracker, LakeCities Ballet Theatre presents this annual ghoulish production starring Count Dracula and his vampire brides. Bring your bravest little ones to see this ballet inspired by the Bram Stoker novel, and for extra spooky fun, come to the theater at 12:30pm on Saturday for a special workshop for kids before the 2pm show. $20 for ages 3 and older; free for lap children 2 and younger. 100 N. Charles St., Lewisville; 972/317-7987 lakecitiesballet.org
REAL KIDS CASTING CALL
T H E SHOP S AT W ILLOW BE N D October 12 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 Oct. 6. Children must live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and be younger than 13 years on the day of the casting call. $35 preregistration fee per child; $45 registration fee the day of the event for walk-ups. 6121 W. Park Blvd., Plano; 972/447-9188 dfwchild.com/realkids
CALENDAR open to kids 6–12 years and robbery re-enactment at the bank. For less mayhem, stick to activities in the free kids’ zone. FREE 102 E. Main St., Pilot Point; 940/686-2165 bonnieandclydedays.org
FAMILY FESTIVAL
K IMBELL ART MU SEUM October 13 The Kimbell’s vast permanent collection serves as the inspiration for the museum’s fall festival themed “Look, Create, Connect.” You’ll have the chance to do all three during this afternoon of art-making, face painting, guest artists and gallery experiences inside the Kahn Building. FREE 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth; 817/332-8451 kimbellart.org
THE ADDAMS FAMILY
ARTISAN CENTER TH EATER October 17–November 2 Have you seen the new animated movie? The first family of Halloween is everywhere this season, including the local theater. Don’t miss the Artisan’s Second Stage production for more macabre comedy sure to make the whole family chuckle. Tickets from $15. 444 E. Pipeline Road, Hurst; 817/284-1200 artisanct.com
DALLAS FAN DAYS
IRV ING C ONV ENTION CENTER October 18–20 Attention diehard Star Wars fans: The English actor who plays droid C-3PO, Anthony Daniels, is among the special guests appearing at this fan
festival for all things fiction and fantasy. Check out the full lineup online, and get to work on your cosplay. For those who want to see and be seen honoring their favorite characters, participate in the costume contests, which begin at 4pm Saturday for adults and 3pm Sunday for kids. Admission: $5 single-day child; $20 single-day adult; $45 family; $60 weekend; $159 gold pass. Additional costs for autographs and photo ops. 500 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving dallasfandays.com
NEWSIES
CA MP US T HE AT RE October 18–27 Seize the day and get your tickets for this uplifting musical inspired by the real newsboys’ strike of 1899. Set in New York City, Newsies follows newsboy leader Jack Kelly as he butts heads with publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer in leading the strike against unfair pay. $25 adults; $20 seniors; $15 students. 214 W. Hickory St., Denton; 940/382-1915 musictheatreofdenton.com
BUTTERFLY FLUTTERBY AND FALL ROUND-UP
G R A PEVINE B OTA NICA L G A RDE NS A ND NASH FA RM October 19 Experience the best of both worlds when Grapevine offers these simultaneous events a short walk from one another. Head to the gardens first at 10am for a costumed butterfly parade in honor of the monarchs’ migration south, then trot down to Nash Farm for an agricultural expo, apple pie making demonstrations, pony rides and bucket brigade races. Admission is free, but some activities require coupons. 411 Ball St., Grapevine; 817/410-3185
BONNIE AND CLYDE DAYS
D OW N TOW N PI LOT P OIN T October 12 Once the stomping grounds for outlaws Bonnie and Clyde, Pilot Point now celebrates its claim to fame every year with a tongue-in-cheek festival on the town square. Family-friendly entertainment features a soap box derby 42
OCT. 19 // JOIN THE FESTIVITIES TO CELBRATE MONARCHS’ MIGRATION SOUTH AT THE BUTTERFLY FLUTTERBY IN GRAPEVINE.
october 2019 / northtexaschild
GLOW IN THE DARK Feel the magic of Halloween at dusk when the lights shine from the lantern parade, neon glow sticks and glowing hot air balloons at these Denton County events for your littles this month. PUMPKIN PALOOZA
C ORINT H C OMMUNIT Y PA RK October 19 Select your favorite pumpkin from the patch, cheer on competitors in the pumpkin derby and experience the orange glow of hot air balloons after sunset—all this and much more at the Lake Cities’ community fall festival. Free for admission and most attractions. Tethered balloon rides: $20 age 16 and older, $15 children. 3800 Corinth Parkway, Corinth; 940/498-3200 corinthpumpkinpalooza.com
SPOOKTACULAR TRAILS AND GLOW RUN
TOYOTA OF LEWISVILLE R A ILROA D PA R K October 26 Halloween costume enthusiasts: This is your night to shine both literally and figuratively. Don your spooky outfits for the costume contest and the trick-or-treat trail. You’ll also receive two glow products to wear on the 5K Glow Run or Monster Mile. Race day registration is $35 for the 5K and $30 for the 1-mile. Free admission to the festival. 1301 Railroad St., Lewisville; 972/219-3550 playlewisville.com
DENTON’S DAY OF THE DEAD FESTIVAL
D OWNTOWN DE NTON October 26 This all-day street festival marks both Halloween and Día de los Muertos with coffin races, the family-friendly comedy show Cirque du Horror and a magical lantern-lit parade at twilight. Flaunt your costumes and sugar skull–painted faces, build your own paper lantern or puppet, and join in the processional through the streets. Free for most activities. Cirque du Horror tickets are $15 adults; $7 children; free for kids under 3. 110 W. Hickory St., Denton; 940/382-7895 discoverdenton.com 626 Ball St., Grapevine; 817/410-3185 grapevinetexasusa.com
Worth; 817/665-6000 fwsymphony.org
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR
T HE T HE ATRE AT G R A ND PR AI RI E October 27 Peppa, George and school friends Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe go on a camping trip in this brand-new live show. Rain begins to pour after they pitch their tents, but no matter — the more the merrier Get tickets from $29.75. The $149.75 VIP Party Pass gets you premium seating and access to the campfire after-party with the cast. 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie; 888/929-7849 peppapigliveus.com
BASS PE RFORMA NCE HA LL October 26 Wear your Halloween costumes—extra points for Harry Potter characters—to this Fort Worth Symphony performance of music from the Harry Potter films, as well as “Danse Macabre,” “In the Hall of the Mountain King” and more tunes known for their spine-tingling effect. Tickets from $11. 525 Commerce St., Fort
PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE
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 ED STEELE; THE CITY OF LEWISVILLE; GRAPEVINE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU; ISTOCK
kid culture /
UPCOMING
MAINSTAGE MUSICALS
PERFORMANCES
OCT. 4 - 13
GET YOUR
TICKETS TODAY!
PERFORMANCES
OCT. 26 - 27
Julian Dounley Studios CUSTOM PAINTINGS 469.254.8762 juliandounleystudios.com
For more info and tickets, visit
GetIntoTheACT.org 359 Lake Park Road, Suite 118, Lewisville, TX
n ual n A d n 22
Plant AMerica for Monarchs
Saturday, October 19, 2019 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Grapevine Botanical Gardens
Costume Parade · Live Butterfly Release Kids Arts & Crafts · Art & Costume Contests GrapevineTexasUSA.com · 817.410.3185
northtexaschild / october 2019
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FALL FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FALL FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY
As the weather cools, treat your family to fall fun at these festivals, performances, exhibits and other kid-friendly destinations; find more to explore at dfwchild.com.
DESCRIPTION
44
Actors Conservatory Theatre getintotheact.org 972/436-8228
Fall is full of excitement at ACT! Take an unforgettable musical adventure with Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: Oct. 4–13. Then, watch as Emily's rambunctious Great Dane puppy saves a museum in Pinkerton!: Oct. 26–27. See ad on page 43.
Adventure Kids Playcare adventurekidsplaycare.com 972/899-9332
Fall theme nights every Friday and Saturday night! Theme nights start at 6:30pm with a pizza party! Crowd favorites include our Halloween Bash, Spooky Science and more! Columbus Day Two-Day Camp. Thanksgiving Camp. See ad on page 15.
Aubrey Peanut Festival aubreypeanutfestival.com 940/343-1313
Celebrate the harvest of the local cash crop, on Oct. 5, from 9am–5pm! Parade starts at 10am. Peanut shelling, peanut spitting and peanut butter sandwich eating contests. One hundred arts/craft booths, food and children's activities.
Carrollton Festival at the Switchyard carrolltonfestival.com 972/466-3084
The City of Carrollton's annual festival at the Switchyard is a family favorite. Spend Saturday, Nov. 2 in downtown Carrollton, and enjoy good tunes, good treats and good times. Free admission, free rides, free games!
City of Highland Village txfallenpd.com 972/899-5131
Come out to The Shops at Highland Village on Saturday, Oct. 19 for the TXFallenPD Tribute Event! There's something for everyone from live music to a kids zone and helicopters! Opening ceremonies start at 2:30pm. See ad on page 17.
City of Irving cityofirving.org/3501/fall-fest 972/721-2501
Fall in love with Irving's Fall Fest! Activities include a pumpkin patch, carnival games, food vendors and a fun house. Also visit the Trunk or Treat where you are sure to have freaky fun time! See ad on page 17.
City of Lewisville Parks and Recreation playlewisville.com 972/219-3560
Pumpkin Family Walk, Oct. 5. Spooktacular Trails, Oct. 26. Tri-City Amazing Race, Nov. 16. Summer in December, Dec. 7. See ad on page 4.
Denton County Office of History and Culture dentoncounty.com/chos 940/349-2850
Park After Dark, a free event at the Bayless-Selby House, takes you back in time to learn what happened to the Bayless family; you might hear a ghost story or two (Oct. 18–19, 6:30–9pm). See ad on page 37.
Denton Parks and Recreation dentonparks.com 940/349-7275
October is a great month for fun family events in Denton. There will be a Halloween harvest, a pumpkin patch day and even a haunted house. 321 E. McKinney St., Denton. See ad on page 2.
october 2019 / northtexaschild
FALL FAMILY FUN DIRECTORY //
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DESCRIPTION
Explorium Denton Children's Museum exploriumdenton.org 940/320-5444
Come build with us! Sto by the museum on Saturday, Oct. 5 during regular hours. Standard admission/membership applies. There are no limits to what you can create! See ad on page 8.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History fwmuseum.org 817/255-9300
Get ready for an otherworldly October at the museum! Join us for Chemistry Connections Oct. 22–26 and Ick-or-Treat on the evening of Oct. 31 for some spooky, family fun. See ad on page 37.
Fort Worth Zoo fortworthzoo.org 817/759-7555
This Halloween, grab your costumes and get your tickets to Boo at the Zoo October 25-27. This family-friendly daytime event is filled with tons of interactive activities, candy and animals too cute to spook! See ad on page 9.
Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185
With family events, such as Butterfly Flutterby, Nash Farm Fall Round-Up, Trick 'R Treat trains and more, to adults-night out aboard Grapevine Vintage Railroad's Witches Brew Train, Grapevine is the perfect place for fall fun! See ads on pages 38 and 43.
Irving Arts Center irvingartscenter.com 972/252-7558
We offer youth and family fun year-round! From Saturday school, to preschool and homeschool classes, we help all ages get art smart. Exciting upcoming family-friendly shows! Open seven days a week. Free parking. See ads on pages 31 and 35.
LakeCities Ballet Theatre lakecitiesballet.org 972/317-7987
Dracula and his brides spellbind audiences with chilling special effects, hypnotizing music, amazing sets and beautiful costumes for its annual production of Le Ballet de Dracula, a LBT original production. Oct. 11–12. See ad on page 38.
Lakefront at Little Elm, The lakefrontlittleelm.com
Our lake attitude runs all year long! Spend the fall season on our trails or in our parks! Don't forget about our special events, such as Pumpkin Hollow and Christmas at the Beach! See ad on page 9.
Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area llela.org 972/219-3550
#GetOutdoors this fall with LLELA on our monthly family hikes, kayak tours, campfires, bird walks and more. Visit llela.org, or follow us on Facebook to check out what's on the calendar this month! See ad on page 15.
Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater mclgrand.com 972/219-8446
Visit the MCL Grand for one of its family-friendly performances this fall. Explore the center's art gallery, admire its chalk art wall, and stroll through Old Town Lewisville to see exciting new public art installations. See ad on page 36.
Melissa Rozas DDS rozasdds.com 972/393-9779
Dr. Rozas invites you to swing by the office for their 14th annual Cash for Candy Food for Families Drive, Thursday, Nov. 7! All donations will be donated to local food pantries and churches. See ad on page 29.
Shops at Highland Village, The theshopsathighlandvillage.com 972/317-7500
Trick and Treat, Saturday Oct. 26 from 2–5pm. Free trick or treating, tractor hay rides, carnival games, balloon animals, spooky characters, blow up maze and more! See ad on page 15.
State Fair of Texas bigtex.com 214/565-9931
State Fair of Texas has more than 110 family-friendly activities and attractions each day included with admission. The 2019 fair runs from Friday, Sept. 27 to Sunday, Oct. 20. See ad on page 33.
Texas Woman's University twu.edu/student-union 940/898-3641
Boo at the U is an annual children's fall carnival on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 5–8pm. Free admissions with games, trunk-or-treating, a haunted house and much more! Food will be available for purchase.
Win Kids WINFEST winkids.net 940/355-9988
WINFEST Flower Mound: Sunday, Oct. 27, 2–5pm. The best family-style Halloween festival in town! Games, food, petting zoo, pony rides, costume contest, bounce houses, hill slide, face painting, children's haunted house. See ad on page 40.
northtexaschild / october 2019
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confessions
FOR YELLOW DAY AT PRESCHOOL, I DRESSED MY SON IN YELLOW CLOTHES, PACKED YELLOW CRACKERS FOR HIS SNACK AND INCLUDED A NOTE SAYING ‘HAPPY YELLOW DAY!’ IT WAS ACTUALLY RED DAY.”
MOM TRUTHS ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN
I accidentally packed my lunch for my daughter. She was upset because she didn’t like it one bit.” —JAQUELINE, IRVING
—ALI, COLLEYVILLE
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COMPILED BY LISA SALINAS
october 2019 / northtexaschild
“My pre-kindergartners had a weather day, so I thought my kindergartner did too and kept him home. I saw my kindergartner’s teacher post a picture of his class being read to. Only then did it occur to me that he actually did have school that day.” —GERMAINE, LANTANA
Got a funny parenting moment you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you. Send it to editorial@dfwchild.com.
“I was trying to be efficient by carrying my stroller on an escalator, thinking my 3-year-old could ride down behind me by himself. The empty stroller and I got on, and my child freaked out and was left at the top screaming.” —NOELLE, DALLAS
WE FOUND OUT MY DAUGHTER’S PRE-K GRADUATION CONFLICTED WITH OUR VACATION TO THE BEACH. SHE WAS SAD, SO I ASKED, ‘WOULD YOU LIKE TO MISS THE BEACH AND GO TO GRADUATION?’ SHE REPLIED, ‘NO. I NEED SAND BETWEEN MY TOES.’” —LAKIN, FORNEY
I told my 5-year-old son about how my dad showed me the ‘Thriller’ video when I was 2, and I’ve been traumatized by it ever since. He assured me he wouldn’t be scared, so against my better judgment I let him watch it. Not only was he terrified, but now he freaks out if any Michael Jackson song comes on!” —LISA, GRAPEVINE
KIDS BELIEVE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. SO DO WE.
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