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AUGUST 2015 | FREE suburbanparent.com

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Mary Ellen Caldwell, RD, LD, CLT editor@suburbanparent.com

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR ALL OF US!

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patrick Hempfing Ken Swarner

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s I write this letter to you we are already geared up for AS ONE WHOM HIS Back to School! We have been preparing for our back MOTHER COMFORTS, SO to school issues since June. So, yes, we are all back I WILL COMFORT YOU. to school. — ISAIAH 66:13 I have always had the contention that it’s best to remain in a learning state of mind. I have found that this not only makes us more interesting to ourselves, but to others as well, like our spouses and children. After a quarter of a century together my husband and I need to have something other than our children to talk about, although, for full disclosure, we do talk about our kids a lot; only because we think they are interesting too! I know you understand. Along the lines of raising children; I get the question from moms a lot, about staying at home with their babies. So, if you are a mom that made the decision to stay-at-home for a while or longer with your little ones, know that there are many ways to stay linked-in, pun intended! I happened into parttime work in the field I am passionate about, and was able to work from home with my first baby on my lap. I learned a new direction to use my skills and it was a fun learning process as well as profitable. So, you make the decision to be at home or part-time at work, or work from home. Maybe write down your own needs, goals and objectives. You don’t need to make this a challenge; you simply do what works for your family. I do, however, recommend continuing to learn (anything!) Being a mom has its own learning curve, but it’s also a spiritual journey. Not only will you see the growth of your children, but your own spiritual growth too. Motherhood is a vocation, which in essence means it’s a call the Lord places in our hearts, and one we respond to with our gift of self-giving. With raising children there are many opportunities to sacrifice and to surrender to self. It requires courage, and the best source of courage is our faith. Pray for your baby when pregnant and pray for them every day of their life. Ask God for guidance to help with your discernment. Look at motherhood as a meaningful part of God’s work; this gives it great honor. And with this, you will be able to make decisions with confidence. Learn more and love more. Our world needs more maternal love. SP

EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com

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suburban parent AUGUST 2015

In a perfect world, Haylen would live on the beach and play in the sand all day. In the real world, she likes to sing, dance and play with squooshy play doh. She also plays soccer and is perfecting her cartwheel. She plans to be a hairstylist someday and her favorite color is rainbow. Ours too!

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YOU SHOULD KNOW KITCHEN REMEDIES

PREPARING FOR PRESCHOOL Before sending your child off to preschool, make sure he knows his full name, his parents’ names, and his street name and number. You should even try to teach him his phone number, practicing dialing it on a play phone. Other than that, social readiness, not academic readiness, should be a priority. Things like sharing, taking turns and being able to play well with others are important. As are basic self-care skills such as hand washing, nose wiping and opening lunch containers.

SPLINTER BE GONE For kiddos who won’t let you near them with tweezers or a needle, getting a splinter out can be tricky. But there is a way to do it. With baking soda. Just make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the area, cover with a bandage and wait. After about 24 hours, the splinter will pop out of the skin making it easy to remove.

TEEN TALK Got a teenager who doesn’t’ like to talk? Try starting a conversation in the car. If you have to be there anyway (driving them to practice, a friend’s house, wherever), might as well make the most of it. The car is a great place to open the lines of communication about many topics including school, relationships, growing up, or even just the weather. The goal is just to get them to open up and in the car, there aren’t too many distractions (except the driving part of course).

suburban parent AUGUST 2015

In 66 days! Forget the 21 day myth. Forming a habit takes more than just doing something for 21 days (which came from a misquote of plastic surgeon Maxwell Maltz in 1960 while observing his patients). In an actual study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, it was determined it takes, on average, 66 days for a behavior to become automatic, but it varies depending on the behavior, the person and the circumstance. This is not necessarily bad news. You just have to know going in that forming a new habit takes work and it’s okay if you make mistakes. It’s a process not an event. Embrace the process.

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SPONGE ICE PACKS You can make your own ice packs by simply soaking a clean kitchen sponge with water and then freezing it in a zip top bag. What’s awesome is as the ice melts, the sponge reabsorbs the water, so there’s no mess. And since it’s just water, even if it does leak a little, it’s not dangerous. Plus, it’s significantly cheaper to replace these ice packs than it is the store bought ones when they go missing with the lost lunchbox.

ARLINGTON’S CHOICE FOR FAMILY DENTISTRY

Kellie Johnson, Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Kellie Johnson, DDS has an extensive background in dental medicine and is a member of the following dental organizations: •

Alpha Kappa Alpha

•

American Dental Association

•

National Dental Association

•

Texas Association of Women Dentists

•

Academy of General Dentists

•

Texas Dental Association

DDS

Together with her talented staff, Dr. Johnson builds beautiful smiles for all ages. When visiting her office, you will find state-of-the-art treatment in a relaxed, caring, and comfortable atmosphere. •

Offering many facets of dentistry including: Family, General, Pediatric, Surgical and Cosmetic Dentistry

•

Most PPO Insurance, CHIP and Medicaid are accepted

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Payment plans available for extensive dental procedures and non-insured patients

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Accepts most credit cards, care credit and capital one

KELLIE JOHNSON, DDS 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd. Suite #245 Arlington, TX 76018

817-466-8383

www.happysmilesdentistry.com

QUESTIONS { + PROFESSIONAL ANSWERS }

NUBIA, MOM OF 2 GIRLS Q. I was told by a local PreK School that my children (2&3yrs) could not be enrolled because they do not know their numbers and alphabet. Is this a norm?

J O N , B O T H E R E D DA D A S K S Q. What kind of treatment is available for a blocked tear duct? It bothers me almost every day.

EMILY, NEW MOM AND READER Q. Is eating gluten free an effective weight loss plan?

A. When you are looking for a school, keep

A. There are two types of eye duct obstructions; acquired and congenital. An acquired obstruction can range from sinus disease, infection, or nasal trauma. You may have watery eyes, crustiness in eyelashes, mucus discharge, and painful swelling at the inner corner of the eyelids. Congenital (born with) obstructions usually resolve in 1-2 months after birth. Medical management depends on the obstruction type; if there is a complete obstruction a surgical procedure may be necessary. If it’s not repairable a surgical implantation of an artificial tear duct for proper drainage may be necessary. Prognosis is good for both congenital and acquired tear obstructions. Therefore, it is imperative to go to your eye doctor for the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

in the field of nutrition caution on jumping on a bandwagon that has little evidence to support weight loss effects. Those with celiac disease or have been diagnosed with gluten sensitivity are directed to a diet plan that eliminates all foods that contain gluten, and there are a plethora of foods that naturally do not contain gluten. Going “no gluten” would eliminate many foods that are good for you, like Freekeh, an Ancient grain high in protein and fiber and provides more of a satiety feeling, which might lead to less calories and help with weight loss. And research does show that a fiber-rich diet is linked to lower body weight!

in mind that every school is different, just like every child is different. My first thought is to say no, requiring children as young as yours to know their numbers and alphabet before starting school, is not what you will find at most schools. But in today’s day and age, there are almost as many different types of schools available as there are types of children! Look for a school that makes you feel good about what they will learn there, regardless of what they know coming in. KIM BACON Sloan School Office Manager

A. Gluten free is trending, however, experts

MARY ELLEN Your favorite Dietitian

ROSMARY SANCHEZ, O.D. Tylock Eye Care and Laser Center

ASK THE SPECIALIST

Q. My almost two year old was born with a hemangioma on his cheek. I’ve never have been worried knowing that it should recede as he ages. What’s the average time frame?

ERIC CHERNG, M.D. Pediatric Dermatology of North Texas

A. Hemangiomas are benign growths consisting of blood vessel cells. They can appear either bright red or blue-gray depending on the level of skin they appear in. Some are present at birth, but most show during the first few weeks of life. Hemangiomas actively grow during the first 4-9 months of life, and then start to shrink and fade afterwards (involution). The hemangioma cells are then replaced by fibrous and fatty tissue. The shrink and fade time follows the Rule of 10%, which means that 10% involute (decrease in size) with each year. This means by 5 years of age, 50% involute and by 9 years of age, 90% of hemangiomas will have involuted. It’s very important to realize that involution does NOT equal complete disappearance. There can be residual color change or extra skin that may need to be corrected with laser therapy or surgery when older.

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PILLOW OF HEALTH

1 Oooh! A specially engineered pillow to reduce pressure points and relieve pain. This pillow offers an adjustable firmness design and comes with a cooling, moisture wicking cover! Hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and dust-mite resistant! Machine washable. www.thepillowofhealth. com, starting at $135.95 (sale)

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FOOGO® FOOD JARS

2 Back to school means back to school lunches. Shake it up this year with these Foogo vacuum insulated food jars. Imagine warm food for lunch that’s not from the cafeteria. Plus, their wide mouths make them easy to fill, eat from and clean - they’re dishwasher safe! They come in blue or pink. Toys R Us, $19.99

PERFECT POUR EVERY TIME!

A pourer, aerator, and reusable freeze gel chiller in one! Corkcicle Air aerates your wine as you pour, introducing just the right amount of oxygen for your wine’s subtle flavors to really peak. Simply freeze the Corkcicle Air prior to use, then place in the bottle. (pssst, you may want to pour yourself a glass first to avoid spillage). Once you’re ready to pour again, the wine makes its way through the open cork, letting its flavors breathe as it flows into your glass. www.thegrommet.com, $24.95

NO TO GREY!

4 Root Vanish will easily cover those grey roots that seem to creep up in between hair appointments! Water resistant and won’t run with sweat or light rain. Great for your man’s sideburns or facial hair too. We found it at www.thegrommet.com, $48

GOT KIDS?

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5 Tired of dirty cups all over the kitchen? The PhillUp by Puj is a kid friendly drinking cup that hangs on your fridge. Kids can help themselves to a quick drink, and then hang it back up when they’re done. So simple, and such a good idea! Find it at www.puj.com, $9.99

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suburban parent AUGUST 2015

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MOMENTS { BY PATRICK HEMPFING }

FIELDS OF DREAMS

he kick went up. The football sailed through the uprights. “It’s good!” What made this kick special? My fourth-grade daughter,

take out the

Jessie, and I had just witnessed the first field goal kicked by a

trainer as I speed

female varsity football player in her school’s history. I used the

to Jessie’s side. “My

opportunity to make two important points to Jessie – “If you set a goal

baby! My baby!” I pick

and work hard, you can achieve it” and “follow your dreams.”

her up in my arms and

I must admit, though, to having told friends and family members, “I’m

race the 50 yards to

glad I have a girl because football is such a rough sport.” It hadn’t oc-

where the ambulance is

curred to me that my daughter might play football. I’d worry every second

parked during each game,

Jessie played, even if she had pads on her shoulders and a mouthpiece

all the while screaming, “To

to protect her teeth. Lucky for me, at least so far, Jessie hasn’t expressed

the hospital!”

interest in football, except for cheering on her favorite high school and

Okay, I don’t think I’d make a good father to a football-playing

college teams with Dad by her side. Speed ahead a few weeks. Our field goal kicker began the game by

daughter. Would I learn to adjust,

kicking off to the opposing team. Their player caught the ball, took a few

like I’ve had to during all of Jessie’s

steps left and then reversed course. He found a seam and down the field

life stages? Probably so.

he ran to what looked like a sure touchdown. But at the 30-yard line, our

Obviously, I want Jessie to follow

field goal kicker tackled him. The home crowd’s exuberance over the

her dreams. She’s a determined

tackle was short-lived, though, as a few seconds later, she limped off the

young lady, and will make her mark

field with a leg injury.

in this world in the fields of her choice. Would

The trainer looked at our kicker’s left knee as she stretched her leg

it be easier if her passions were in sync with those

out on the sideline. The kicker stood up and walked gingerly, bending

of her parents? Maybe, but so far, it’s looking like that’s not the

over several times to inspect her knee. She didn’t return to the action.

case. Her tennis racquet strings aren’t worn nearly enough and she’d

As the game continued, I noticed a man, I’m confident the girl’s father,

rather put outfits on our Shetland sheepdog than shoot baskets in the

walk up to her on the sideline. Though I couldn’t hear the conversation,

driveway. But Mattie and I will do our best to support Jessie’s goals,

my guess is it went something like this.

whatever they are. Like the ball kicked high at the start of this story, I know there’ll be

“Hi, kiddo. How are you doing?” “Dad, I injured my left knee. It really hurts.”

things going up in Jessie’s future, like her hand in the classroom and her

“We’ll get it checked out and go from there. Hang tough. For tonight,

eyebrows when she gets excited. I’m impressed by how high she kicks

support your team from the sideline.” Before he walked away, I saw the dad bend over and tap his daughter’s thigh pad with the back of his right hand. “By the way, nice tackle.” The dad appeared calm, and the tap was a touching gesture. If Jessie

her legs when she dances. Before I know it, she’ll be lifting her tassel at her high school graduation. In the meantime, I’ll enjoy each report card, dog fashion show, and dance recital. Above all, Jessie will know that her parents love her and are filled with pride when she excels at whatever

had been the one lying on the sideline, the scene probably would have

she decides to do, whether she makes a touchdown-saving tackle or

played out more like this.

hoists a tennis trophy. I’m pulling for the latter – in doubles – with me as

I jump from the aluminum bleachers and bump into the spectator sitting next to me, knocking his hot dog from its roll. I run across the track

FOLLOW PATRICK @PatrickHempfing

and accidentally

suburban parent AUGUST 2015

her partner. Hey, a dad can dream, too. Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. SP

Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer. www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing

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OCD

OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

mind game

n estimated 2.3% of adults are afflicted with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) according to the National Institute of Mental Health, and for many, the symptoms begin during childhood or adolescence This anxiety disorder is a neurological malfunction that creates unrelenting, intrusive thoughts and extreme anguish for those affected. Obsessions may range from a fear of hitting someone while driving to unbearable worries about contamination. These fears can be alleviated only one way—by acting out compulsions, which become repetitive acts of checking and rechecking to ensure the fear is unfounded. Although OCD was added to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) in 1987, many people still live with its destruction unaware there is help or even a name for their bizarre fears and behaviors. Furthermore, “Families often don’t know that they have a sick child,” says Judith L. Rapoport, M.D., in The Boy Who Couldn’t Stop Washing. Children may keep their obsessions and compulsions a secret in order to avoid appearing crazy. The devastation of OCD is not just seen in the adult or child with the disorder. OCD has a negative impact on the whole family, which often falls apart from the stress caused by the disorder. It is not unusual for the OCD sufferer to rely on family members to help alleviate his fears. He may insist that a child, parent, or spouse check electrical outlets or may badger loved ones with constant questions for reassurance. In some homes where fear of contamination is the obsession, family members are banned from certain rooms or areas of the home in order to prevent contaminating the areas. Family members may also be required to live up to unreasonable standards of cleanliness in order to satisfy the OCD person. In other homes, compulsions such as hoarding are so out of hand that the home literally becomes a maze in which family members must maneuver through narrow trails, dodging tall stacks of boxes, newspapers, or whatever is hoarded.

suburban parent AUGUST 2015

WHAT’S THE CAUSE?

To understand the OCD mind, many researchers explain that the brain is stuck, in a sense, and replays a particular thought over and over again, like a broken record. In other words, it tricks the sufferer, and she cannot trust her own judgment. Those who don’t understand OCD often tell the affected, ‘Why don’t you just stop?’ But it isn’t that simple. Researchers believe the disorder to be neurobiological, and therefore, the obsessions are not a matter of choice. Differences have been found in the brain of OCD sufferers through brain imaging techniques. Some studies have found abnormalities in the neurotransmitters, such as serotonin. The occurrence of OCD is also higher in families with depressive and anxiety disorders. For most, there is no known event that relates to their particular obsession(s). Nevertheless, researchers feel that environmental stressors may at least play some role in the development of OCD for those who are biologically predisposed.

IS THERE HELP? Although there is no known cure for OCD, there are a number of treatments available. Caution should be used in weighing out treatment options, as some are not supported by a preponderance of evidence. Questionable treatments for OCD include psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychosurgery, and electro convulsive therapy (ECT). The two most common, effective, and proven forms of treatment available for OCD are psychotropic drugs and behavioral therapy. Many doctors suggest medication in combination with behavioral therapy, which teaches techniques to relieve or stop the intrusive thoughts and to control compulsive behaviors, works best. The severity of untreated OCD generally tends to worsen over time and can become completely debilitating. If someone in your family has symptoms of OCD, contact your mental health provider for a confidential evaluation. Although there is no cure for OCD, with proper treatment many OCD sufferers are able to lead normal and productive lives. SP

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Kimberly Blaker, of Arizona, is an author and freelance writer.

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AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

Engaging the

Daydreamer W

BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES

hen my son’s second grade teacher told me that he often appeared to “check out” during the school day, I was concerned. But I wasn’t entirely surprised that my imaginative child would drift off to his dream world, an infinitely more colorful place than a math facts worksheet. Nonetheless, his daydreaming needed to be addressed. While many dreamers are creative and bright children, they may have trouble getting work done during the school day, struggle with paying attention to the teacher and forget to turn in homework. Worse, they can easily get pegged as slackers. “The tendency to daydream--though it may be one symptom of Attention Deficit Disorder--does not automatically equal a problem with paying attention when necessary or completing tasks,” writes Amy Fries, author of Daydreams at Work: Wake Up Your Creative Powers. “A child who enjoys daydreaming could well be a budding scientist, writer, artist or visionary entrepreneur.”

suburban parent AUGUST 2015

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Because daydreams play an important role in a child’s socialemotional development and creativity, you wouldn’t want to quash a child’s imagination. Rather, the goal is to help him channel the behavior to more appropriate times of the day. Daydreaming isn’t uncommon. A study conducted by Harvard psychologists found that we tend to daydream about 47 percent of the time. Some of our society’s most innovative change makers, artists and inventors like Thomas Edison, Mark Twain and Albert Einstein were famous daydreamers. While the future may be bright for dreamers, it is necessary to find ways to help children engage in order to learn and enjoy success in a structured academic environment. “The daydreamer is usually fascinated by something that’s been said and is off in that world,” says Dr. Gay Lynn Pendleton Smith, assistant dean of the University of Phoenix College of Education. The secret to reaching a dreamer, she says, is to teach him how to engage outside of his imagination. “That’s really hard in today’s fast-paced world. Our children are connected to a handheld technology device that gives them one-on-one attention and then we put them in a classroom and ask them to focus on something and do something they haven’t done before. And that’s to engage with a whole group of people and to focus on one individual,” Smith says. How can you re-engage your daydreamer? Here are a few tips: ENSURE QUIET OBSERVATION TIME. Consider if your child is getting enough time to play quietly on his own. Kids given regular quiet time are more likely to exhibit time management and problem solving abilities. Time alone also fosters creativity, self-confidence and independence. Plus, solitude gives kids the opportunity to drive their own play without having to compromise or go along with what the group demands. SEEK PHYSICAL AND CREATIVE OUTLETS. “Outside activities will satisfy some of that dream mode so that when they get in the classroom they can engage and start to think,” Smith says. Activities like swimming, karate, art, theater or playing an instrument can nurture concentration skills and provide avenues for self-expression. ENCOURAGE NOTE-TAKING. Talk to your child’s teacher about having him take notes or write down basic words or pictures describing what the teacher says. Older children can also write down thoughts that come up on an idea pad. That way they won’t lose the thought, but can continue to focus on the teacher or task at hand. DISCUSS SEATING ARRANGEMENTS. Talk to the teacher about seating your child toward the front of the classroom or just off to the side. By being in the middle of the action, her thoughts may be less likely to wander. ASK QUESTIONS. Encourage your child to think of questions she can ask the teacher during instructional time. Also look for opportunities to connect with and listen to your child one-on-one, whether driving in the car or while engaged in a creative process like cooking or baking. Knowing that you are interested in her thoughts may help her feel less inclined to drift off. If your child continues to struggle with focus and paying attention, consult with your pediatrician. SP Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }

AUGUST 2015 SAT 1 17TH ANNUAL HISPANIC WELLNESS FAIR 9am-2pm. FREE Health Screenings for Mom, Dad, Children, and Grandparents, too! • For adults: Adult TdaP, mammograms, cancer screenings, body fat analysis, diabetes screening, cholesterol screening, pregnancy tests, hearing tests for age 17 and older • For children: Vision screenings, vaccinations, school physicals • For all: Oral health education, spinal screenings, health Information booths • Adolescent Suicide forum discussion • Healthy cooking demonstrations • Exercise demonstrations • Financial Literacy • Information on Immigration Physicals • Blood Drive • And So Much More! FREE Convention Center Parking! FREE Shuttle from Tarrant County College – South Campus. This event is sponsored by DFW Familia and open to the public! Forest Hill Civic & Convention Center, 6901 Wichita Street, Forest Hill. 817-735-2784 www.hispanicwellnesscoalition.org

JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS CONSIGNMENT SALES EVENT Through August 2. Shop, sell and save at North America’s Leading Children’s and Maternity Consignment Sales Event. Sat 8/1 8:30-10am ($5 Early Bird Half-Price Sale) or 10am-6pm (Free), Sun 8/2 Half-Price & more 9am-Noon (Free). Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S. Main, Grapevine. Jbfsale.com.

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HOMESCHOOL SYMPOSIUM 8:30am-3pm. Dave and Anne Gebhart, as they help guide you through the process of homeschooling, from understanding the law in, to getting organized, to preparing for high school and beyond. Admission: free. Contact Information: Anne Gebhart at events@heartoftex.org. Registration is required! Home Schooling 101, How to Choose Curriculm, How to Organize Your Homeschool, How to Plan Your Year, How to Prepare Your Child’s Transcript/Diploma, How to Prepare for High School & Beyond. Bedford Library North and South Meeting Rooms, Bedford.

HIKE WITH A MASTER NATURALIST 9-11am. Join local Master Naturalists for a fun, family friendly hike exploring Trophy Club Park’s flora and fauna. The group will meet at the front gate of Trophy Club Park. Families and small children are welcome! Hikes will last as long as you want them to! Trophy Club Park, 2885 Trophy Park Dr., Trophy Club.

NATURAL GUARD 9am-12pm. Individuals can help keep the Nature Center beautiful by volunteering for the Natural Guard. Natural Guard members assist Refuge staff in trail maintenance, brush clearing, bridge building and much more! Please call 392-7420 for information on projects and meeting places. FREE. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

KELLER FARMERS MARKET 8am-12pm. The Keller Farmers Market is a casual, open air, seasonal market that offers fresh produce, meats, tamales, baked goods, artisan bread, cheese, salsa, pasta, pickles, jellies and jams, honey, baked goods, prepared foods, pet products and crafts, all from the state of or within 150 miles. Keller Town Hall, 1100 Bear Creek Parkway, Keller.

REPTICON DALLAS REPTILE & EXOTIC ANIMAL SHOW Repticon Dallas is a reptile event featuring vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and frequent free raffles for coveted prizes. Exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone! Hours: Saturday: 10am-5pm

(VIP Entry at 9am) Sunday: 10am-4pm (No VIP Early Entry) Admission: Adults-$10, Children (5-12)-$5, under 5-Free Visit our website for special offers on 2-day and VIP tickets. Knights of Columbus Center, 2280 Springlake Rd, Farmers Branch. 863-268-4273

GRAPEVINE MARKET 9am-2pm. Grapevine Market is held every Thursday and Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., April through mid-October. Located in Liberty Park across from City Hall, The Grapevine Market features a variety of vendors offering home decor, jewelry, collectibles and much more. Liberty Park, 299 S. Main, Grapevine.

READ TO A DOG 10-11:30am. Children are invited to make an appointment to read to Malbec, a reading therapy dog. Southlake Library, 1400 Main Street, Southlake. 817-748-8243

COSMIC COLORS 2:30-3:30pm, Through August 22. Take an adventure along the spectrum and discover the world of color. Discover why plants are green, the sky is blue. Take a trip in the universe to discover how scientists use the entire electromagnetic spectrum to view the universe. ADMISSION: $6 ADULTS, $4 CHILDREN/SENIORS. The Planetarium at UT Arlington, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington. 817-272-1183

TCC PROUD: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS 10am-6pm. A community event celebrating TCC’s 50-year Anniversary featuring live entertainment, food, children’s activities and interactive exhibits highlighting various TCC programs including: Culinary Arts, Public Safety, Radio/Television and much more. TCC’s Mobile Go Center (MOGO) Trailer, equipped with 20 laptop computers with WiFi internet access. Will be staffed by the College

Access Team. Entertainment on center stage including special decade-themed performances by each campus:• 60s – South• 70s – Northwest• 80s – Northeast• 90s – Southeast• 2000s – Trinity Rivers Other attractions: • Toro, TCC’s Mascot• Captain, Rangers Mascot• Fort Worth Vaqueros FC Soccer Team• KISSFM Radio Live Broadcast Panther Island Pavilion, 395 Purcey Street, Fort Worth. 817-698-0700

JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH Through August 8. When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion which results in a tremendous peach – and launches a journey of enormous proportions. Suddenly James finds himself in the center of the gigantic peach among human-sized insects with equally oversized personalities, but after it falls from the tree and rolls into the ocean, the group faces hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements. Thanks to James’ quick wit and creative thinking, the residents learn to live and work together as a family. Admission: $10, check website for performance times. OhLook Performing Arts Center, 1631 W. Northwest Hwy., Grapevine. ohlookperform.com

KIMBELL KIDS DROP-IN STUDIO 1-3pm every Saturday in August. Framed! This free program introduces children (ages 12 and younger) and their adult companions to fun and inspiring ways to enjoy art together. Each session features a brief gallery activity and a related studio art project. Space is limited; sign-up begins one hour prior to the program. Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Ft Worth. 817-332-8451

SUMMER WILDFLOWERS 1-3pm. View the colorful sights summer wildflowers bring to the Nature Center. Wooly white, liatris, and lemon beebalms

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AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

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are just a few examples adapted for the heat. Pollinators utilize wildflowers and perhaps we will find some hanging around. Dress for the weather. Bring water and insect repellant. FREE (with paid admission). FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER & REFUGE, 9601 Fossil ridge Road, Fort Worth.

PICTURES & POPCORN 1:45-4pm. Every Saturday in August come enjoy a family friendly movie with a side of free popcorn each week! Please call the Reference Desk at 817427-6814 for more information. Library Community Room, 9015 Grand Avenue, North Richland Hills.

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Shop, sell and save at North America’s Leading Children’s and Maternity Consignment Sales Event. Sun 8/2 Half-Price & more 9am-Noon (Free). Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S. Main, Grapevine. Jbfsale.com.

FREE FEE SUNDAY 12-5pm. No studio fees on ceramic painting all day plus 20% off mosaics & glass fusion. We do not take reservations for Free Fee Sunday. 817-4241417. Sunshine Glaze, Southlake Town Square, Southlake.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST PRESENTED BY OHLOOK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Through August 16. Step into the enchanted world of Broadway’s modern classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. Admission: $15/$20. See website for exact performance times. OhLook Performing Arts Center, 1631 W. Northwest Hwy., Grapevine. 817-4212825. ohlookperform.com

SECRET OF THE CARDBOARD ROCKET 1:30-2:30pm. Join two children on a magical journey through the Solar System, aided by a talking astronomy book, a cardboard rocket, and a vivid imagination. During this imaginative show, audiences will land on Venus, fly

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through the rings of Saturn, and discover the secrets of the Solar System. The Planetarium at UT Arlington, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington. 817-272-1183

“THE BRIDE’S ROOM” 3-5pm. In a bedroom called “The Bride’s Room,” many wedding gowns spanning several decades are displayed. One on display is the 1903 wedding gown, coat and slippers worn by Mrs. J.O. (Agnes Sueppel) Schulze of Iowa City, Iowa. It was custom designed and made by Marshall Field of Chicago. Given by her daughters to the Irving Heritage Society, the gown was lovingly and painstakingly restored by Amy Senter of Irving. It took her about two years to complete this task, finished in 1997. Admission is free. Group tours may also be scheduled on alternate days. Irving Heritage House, 303 South O’Connor, Irving. 972-252-3838

MON 3 HUMPBACK WHALES Through August 17. An extraordinary journey into the hidden world of nature’s most awe-inspiring marine mammal, Humpback Whales takes you to Alaska, Hawaii, and the Kingdom of Tonga for a close-up look at how these whales communicate, sing, feed, play, and care for their young. Admission $6$7. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1600 Gendy Street, Ft Worth. 817-255-9300

ADVENTURE IN ART CAMP 2-3pm. Through August 6. Ages: 5-13. Complete eight amazing landscapes, seascapes, florals, and animals you will want to frame and display in oils, watercolor, acrylics, oil pastels, and charcoal. Learn fine art, not simple crafts painting, with a professional artist. All supplies are furnished. Wear an old t-shirt, and bring a snack and a roll of paper towels. For more details, call 817-503-1180. Senior Center, Colleyville.

JO-ANN’S LITTLE DANCERS 4:30-5:30pm every Monday in August. These classes develop poise and coordination while teaching the fundamentals of ballet and tap. Classes build group interaction skills and support your child’s self-esteem and positive image. Children will also develop rhythm and music appreciation skills. Ages 3-5. Senior Center, Colleyville. 817-503-1180

GIANTS OF THE JURASSIC Join us in the Wildlife amphitheater as exotic animals help the zoo’s

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KNOW IT ALL “paleontologist” search for fossils to complete a dinosaur skeleton. (Wed/ Thurs 11A-1P, Fri/Sat/Sun 11A, 1P & 3P) Get ready for the ultimate play date – 65 million years in the making – as Earth’s DINOSAUR ZOO LIVE leads you on a breathtaking tour of pre-historic Australia. (Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon 10A, 11:30A, 1:30P & 3:30P) Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas.

“THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ” EXHIBIT Through August 21. This larger than life pop-up book exhibition dazzles the eyes and stimulates the mind using creativity, play and exploration. Visitors literally step into the pages of the story at each exhibit section designed as an open book. Science, art and history are explored through the wonder of this timeless story with hands-on activities and interactive exhibits such as puppets of Oz with a message of tolerance, the Tin Woodsman sharing physiology of the heart, and Scarecrow allowing visitors to pick his brain! Visitors follow the characters on their journey along the ‘road of yellow brick’ through the Land of Oz and by the end, visitors and the story’s characters learn more about themselves with a complement of character building learning curriculum. Free event. Tower Gallery, 636 S. Main St., Grapevine. www.grapevinetexasusa.com

TUE 4 SUMMER ART CAMP CONTINUES AT SUNSHINE GLAZE CREATIVE STUDIO Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3pm. Advanced reservations required. 405 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake. 817-424-1417. www.SunshineGlaze.com. See ad in this issue.

SPACEPARK 360 INFINITY 3:30-5:30pm. Through August 6. SpacePark360: Infinity is a set of full dome movies designed to recreate the experience of amusement park thrill rides-roller coasters, pendulums, inverters and more. Seen from the rider’s perspective, SpacePark360: Infinity takes the state-of-the-art technologies of full dome systems and combines them with heart pounding thrill rides to create a unique entertainment show never seen before on the dome. Spacepark 360: Infinity takes us even farther with 9 new rides from the aurora filled skies of Earth, to a far away exoplanet and even a trip to the Sun! Ticket are $4-$6. University of at Arlington-Planetarium, Arlington. 817-272-1183

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WET ‘N WILD 2015 SUMMER CAMP Through August 14. Go wild this summer at the Bob Jones Nature Center. Tues-Fri 9am-4pm. For ages 3-11. To register, call 817-491-6333 or visit www. bjnc.org/education-summer-camps.php.

ARTRAGEOUS ADVENTURE CAMPS 1-3pm. Art camps meet Tuesdays & Thursdays this summer. Projects include ceramic painting, glass fusion, mosaics, canvas painting, & crafting. $28 per class. Reservations required. Ages 5 & up. 817-424-1417. Sunshine Glaze, Southlake Town Square, Southlake.

ADVENTURE IN ART CAMP 2-3pm. Ages: 5-13. Complete eight amazing landscapes, seascapes, florals, and animals you will want to frame and display in oils, watercolor, acrylics, oil pastels, and charcoal. Learn fine art, not simple crafts painting, with a professional artist. All supplies are furnished. Wear an old t-shirt, and bring a snack and a roll of paper towels. For more details, call 817-503-1180. Senior Center, Colleyville.

SNAP CIRCUITS 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for fun, hands on learning! Snap circuits provide an easy introduction to circuitry, building things that light up, whirl, buzz, and move. Each month we will be building a new and exciting project. Registration required. This is a monthly program, held on the first Tuesday of each month. Registration is for the entirety of the year; however feel free to register at any time. This is a free event and open to ages 10-13. 817503-1154. Colleyville Public Library, 110 Main Street, Colleyville.

SUCCESSFUL BACK TO SCHOOL STRATEGIES FOR THE FAMILY 1-2pm. Starting back to school is SUPER for some and STRESSFUL for others. Share and learn successful, positive strategies for mornings, bedtime, and homework. Learn the keys to involving children in activities while avoiding the stress and strain of taking on too much. Carrollton Public Library at Josey Ranch Lake, 1700 Keller Springs Road, Carrollton.

WED 5 DYNAMIC EARTH 2-3pm. Explore the inner workings of Earth’s climate engine with visualizations based on satellite monitoring data and advanced supercomputer simu-

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AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

KNOW IT ALL lations. This cutting-edge production follows a trail of energy that flows from the Sun into the interlocking systems that shape our climate: the atmosphere, oceans, and the biosphere. Audiences will ride along on swirling ocean and wind currents, dive into the heart of a monster hurricane, come face-to-face with sharks and gigantic whales, and fly into roiling volcanoes. ADMISSION: $6 ADULTS, $4 CHILDREN/SENIORS The Planetarium at UT Arlington, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington. 817-272-1183

THU 6 ONE WORLD, ONE SKY: BIG BIRD’S ADVENTURE 2-3pm. Through August 20. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure begins on Sesame Street when Elmo’s friend, Hu Hu Zhu, visits from China. Together, Big Bird, Elmo and Hu Hu Zhu locate the Big Dipper, the North Star and the Moon in the night sky. Use your imagination to explore the moon. Return to earth and discover that even though we live far away, we all live under the same sky. ADMISSION: $6 ADULTS, $4 CHILDREN/SENIORS. The Planetarium at UT Arlington, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington. 817-272-1183

GRAPEVINE FARMERS MARKET 8am-4pm. Take advantage of the opportunity to eat healthy with locally-grown produce and products. Runs weekly through Oct. 17. Town Square Gazebo, 325 S. Main Street, Grapevine.

participants receive a Kidz Love Soccer jersey. For details, call 817-503-1180. Sparger Park, Colleyville.

FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER ANIMALS 11am-12pm. A fun and educational show with live animals! All ages. Southlake Library, 1400 Main Street, Southlake. 817-748-8243

SPECIAL NEEDS GROUP EVENTS 2-4pm. Special needs teens and young adults are welcome to join in the fun for two hours of social interaction with LEGOs or movies. Registration is not required. Admission: free. Contact Information: Children’s Information Desk @ 817-952-2374 or www.bedfordlibrary. org. Ages: teens and young adults with special needs Bedford Public Library, Storytime Theater, Bedford.

EMPTY POCKETS - EVENINGS ON OAK STREET CONCERT SERIES 7-8pm. Empty Pockets performs songs of various genres-new country, classic country, classic rock and variety songs. The band is always adding new songs to the set-list which is required to keep the band’s sound fresh and updated. With both male and female lead vocals, our music selection covers a wide variety of styles. FREE! Austin Street Plaza, 221 N. Oak Street, Roanoke. 817-491-2411

FRI 7 EARLY BIRDS

SOCCER 1: TECHNIQUES & TEAMWORK 10:15-11:15am. Players learn dribbling, passing, receiving, shooting, age-specific defense, and more. Fun skill games are played at every session, and every participant will have a ball at his or her feet. Small-sided soccer matches will be introduced gradually. Shin guards are required after the first class; soccer cleats are optional; shorts and a t-shirt are fine. All participants receive a Kidz Love Soccer jersey. Ages 5-6. For more details, call 817-503-1180. Sparger Park, Colleyville.

SOCCER 2: SKILLZ & SCRIMMAGES 11am-12pm. Kidz, 7-10 years of age, will enjoy advanced skill-building: dribbling, passing, and shooting in a team-play format. Each class focuses on scrimmages that emphasize application of finer technical points. All levels are welcome to enjoy the world’s most popular game. Shin guards are required after the first class; soccer cleats are optional; shorts and a t-shirt are fine. All

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7:30-9:30am. Come and join a naturalist as we try to wake up with the birds. We will take a leisurely hike around the Nature Center to see if we can find birds beginning their day. This is the best time of the day to see our fine feathered friends. Bring your binoculars or borrow some from us. Pre-registration required. FREE (with paid admission). Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge road, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE FARM - “COTTON” 10am-12pm. Cotton was one of the most important cash crops and truly helped to build this region. Hear how cotton was grown, harvested and sold. Registration is required. Participants of all ages are encouraged to attend. Nash Farm, 626 Ball Street, Grapevine.

BROWN BAG BOOK CLUB 12-2pm. The Brown Bag Book Club meets every Friday from noon until 2pm at Bob Jones Nature Center. Bring

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a snack or lunch for yourself, something to share if you are so inclined, a sturdy pair of shoes for the trail, and a willing spirit. We will chat, walk, and maybe even squeeze in a service project for good measure. Bob Jones Nature Center, 355 E Bob Jones Rd., Southlake. Rusty Pafford rustypaf@aol.com or call 817-491-6333.

SUMMERBLAST FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS

STARS OF THE PHARAOHS 5:30-6:30pm. Travel to ancient Egypt to see how science was used to tell time, make a workable calendar, and align huge buildings. You’ll learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. And thanks to the time Digital Theater’s production team spent on location in Egypt taking photographs and measurements, you’ll see some of the most spectacular temples and tombs of the ancient world recreated in their original splendor. The Planetarium at UT Arlington, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington. 817-272-1183

WIZART

GROWING UP WILD SERIES

4:30-5:30pm. Wizart is a monthly craft program specifically designed for kids ages 5-12. Free, but registration is required because space is limited. Please contact the Library at 817-743-4840. Keller Public LIbrary, keller.

9am12pm. Don’t let your child miss out on nature! This interactive program will explore a new topic each month through a variety of crafts, stories, short walks, and nature games. Tentatively, this series will be held at the Pavilion, entrance to Trophy Club Park relative to the flood waters at these given dates. Ages 4-11. Trophy Gardens Pavilion, Trophy Club.

6am-2pm. The March of Dimes will host a community baby shower in the Dallas area for local pregnant women and parents who participate in March of Dimes community education programs: Becoming A Mom™/Comenzando bien®, Centering Pregnancy® and Honey Child. Proceeds from the shower encourage pregnant women to seek early and consistent prenatal care through incentive-based community education programs. Community members are asked to drop off new or gently-used baby items (no car seats, cribs, strollers or recalled items) and/or monetary donations for the benefiting agencies. Items of the greatest need are diapers; wipes; bath accessories; bottles; and new or gently-used preemie, infant, toddler and maternity clothes. Monetary donations can also be made online prior to the event by visiting, marchofdimes.com/texas. Nebraska Furniture Mart, 5600 Nebraska Furniture Mart Drive, The Colony. 972-232-1349

IPAR ANNUAL ONE ACT PLAY CONTEST 7-9pm. Young thespians from Irving Parks and Recreation Department’s suburban parent AUGUST 2015

SAT 8

See the Friday Night Fireworks once again light up the North sky every Friday night through Labor Day weekend at 9:30 p.m. Only designated viewing areas are available. Relax and enjoy this great Grapevine tradition with the entire family! Designated viewing areas include the parking garage rooftop of Gaylord Texan Resort, featuring a DJ, music and plenty of viewing space. Guests can also view the show at the Grapevine Mills parking areas. Due to increased water levels at Lake Grapevine, lake parks are closed and will not be available for viewing the show.

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summer drama classes perform in short, one-act plays. Awards presented for best play, actor and actress. Bring the family out and enjoy free live entertainment and support our youth! Carpenter Hall, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving.

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NATURE HIKE 10am-12pm. Join a naturalist for a leisurely hike on the trails of the FWNC&R. Hikes feature current natural history events such as blooming wildflowers, commonly seen insects, birds, other animals and current projects on the Refuge. Bring water and dress for the weather. MAXIMUM 15 participants. Hikes not designed for organized groups. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. FREE (with paid admission). Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

ROCKET READERS 10:30am-12pm. What’s a better listener than a friendly non-judgmental dog? Independent readers’ grades 1-5: bring your favorite book from home or choose one from the library and read to a furry friend from the Therapy Dog Program. This is a program that is sweeping libraries across the country and a program that researchers report raises reading levels among participating children. Great for gaining read-aloud confidence! (Walk-in

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AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

KNOW IT ALL availability will be based on a first-come first-served basis, at the Youth Services desk). Grades 1-5; 817-503-1154. Colleyville Public Library, 110 Main Street, Colleyville.

second Saturday of each month from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, please call 972-721-2501. Jackie Townsell Bear Creek Heritage Center, 3925 Jackson Street, Irving.

KIMBELL KIDS DROP-IN STUDIO

TWILIGHT KAYAKING

Every Saturday in August from 1-3pm. Framed! This free program introduces children (ages 12 and younger) and their adult companions to fun and inspiring ways to enjoy art together. Each session features a brief gallery activity and a related studio art project. Space is limited; sign-up begins one hour prior to the program. Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Ft Worth. 817-332-8451

8-10pm. Prior kayaking experience required, ages 16 years and up. Paddlers receive only a brief introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided. Don’t delay in registering; these trips fill up quickly. $25/paddler. Registration is required at 972-2193930 or lisa.cole@unt.edu. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E. Jones Street, Lewisville.

HERITAGE PARK TOURS EULESS

SUN 9

1-5pm. Free tours of historic Heritage Park are offered on the second Saturday of every month between 1 – 5 p.m. Visit the all-new Euless Heritage Museum at the Ruth Millican Center, as well as the Himes Log House, the Fuller House and the McCormick Barn. Come see “HOW WE LIVED.” Group tours are available on different days depending on staff availability. Heritage Park, 201 Cullum Drive, Euless. 817-685-1649

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6-8pm. This event is for teens 13-18 (7th-12th grade) who participated in the Teen Summer Reading Club. To participate in the Teen Summer Reading club you will need to have read at least 5 hours during the summer. Join us for our last celebration before school starts! We will have awesome field day games like sack race, tug-a-war, balloon toss, three-legged race, hula hoop contest and water sponge relay and more! We will also have some prize and giveaways and, of course, a 50 meter L-shaped pool. Additional amenities include concessions, six shade structures and a large grass campus. Registration is required Registration will open on July 31, 2015. Allen Bolden Outdoor Pool, 2800 S. Center Street, Arlington.

suburban parent AUGUST 2015

JACKIE TOWNSELL BEAR CREEK HERITAGE CENTER MUSEUMS 1-4pm. Look into the lives of Irving’s African-American pioneers in this historic set of buildings. Open on the

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NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY 1-3pm. Join local photographer Randall Patterson as he prepares a slideshow of wildlife he has caught with the eye of his camera. Mr. Patterson will discuss how he has developed his craft, show you equipment used for taking great shots and provide advice on taking a great photo. After our indoor portion, we will go outside and practice taking some photos. Get a sneak peek of his work at www.birdsiviewtexas.com. Bring your camera equipment and questions. FREE (with paid admission). Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

SUMMER READING CLUB 2015 FINAL CELEBRATION 2-4pm. Celebrate all the books, programs and fun of the 2015 Summer Reading Club! Bring friends and family members to the final program of the summer. This year’s celebration will be at Globe Life Park. The event will offer free programs for the whole family and access to the Rangers’ Kid’s Zone. The Kid’s Zone features interactive areas for both big and small kids. Entrance to the Final Celebration will be through the Center Field entrance, near the corner of Randol Mill and Ballpark Way. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington.

MON 10 HUMPBACK WHALES Through August 17. An extraordinary journey into the hidden world of nature’s most awe-inspiring marine mammal, Humpback Whales takes you to Alaska, Hawaii, and the Kingdom of Tonga for a close-up look at how these whales communicate, sing, feed, play,

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KNOW IT ALL and care for their young. Admission $6$7. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth. 817-255-9300

JEDI ENGINEERING USING LEGO® 9-10am. Through August 14. Ages 5-7. For more details, call 817-503-1180. McPherson Park, Colleyville.

TUMBLING FOR TOTS 3:45-4:45pm. A regular recreation class for ages 3-5. Senior Center, Colleyville. 817-503-1180

TUE 11 “THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ” EXHIBIT

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Preparation for prestigious international ballet competitions! Annual productions of The Nutcracker!

Through August 21. This larger than life pop-up book exhibition dazzles the eyes and stimulates the mind using creativity, play and exploration. Visitors literally step into the pages of the story at each exhibit section designed as an open book. Science, art and history are explored through the wonder of this timeless story with hands-on activities and interactive exhibits such as puppets of Oz with a message of tolerance, the Tin Woodsman sharing physiology of the heart, and Scarecrow allowing visitors to pick his brain! Visitors follow the characters on their journey along the ‘road of yellow brick’ through the Land of Oz and by the end, visitors and the story’s characters learn more about themselves with a complement of character building learning curriculum. Free event. Tower Gallery, 636 S. Main St., Grapevine. www. grapevinetexasusa.com

BLOCKBUSTER TUESDAY 6-8pm. The Library hosts a free screening of a recently released movie! All movies are rated PG-13 or lower. Popcorn will be provided. For more information, including movie titles, contact the Library’s Information Desk at 817-743-4840 Keller Public Library, 640 Johnson Road, Keller.

tour of modern scientific method, using comedy while demonstrating spectacular applications of the physical sciences. The brainchild of David Epley, Doktor Kaboom combines Mister Wizard and the Nutty Professor with a dash of German rock star added for zest. He travels the world with a fully equipped lab, a wicked cool haircut, and a love of performance that knows no bounds. Awaken your inner scientist with a Kaboom! Showtimes are 9:30 & 11:00am, $7.50; $6 groups of 10 or more (single payment required); $2 for lap children age 2 or less available at the door. Dupree Theater, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving.

WED 12 THE TUBES 9am-9pm. Listed as one of the best FUN & FREE family friendly activities in DFW, The Tubes is an indoor play scape located at the Irving Bible Church. It’s open to the public SEVEN DAYS A WEEK, from 9A to 9P. It’s great for preschoolers, toddlers, infants, playdates and birthday parties. Parties aren’t free but worth mentioning. Contact the church for further information. Irving Bible Church, 2435 Kinwest Pkwy., Irving. 972-560-4600

THU 13 BOOKS ‘N’ BRUNCH BOOK CLUB 11am-12pm. Ages: 18 & up Books ‘n’ Brunch is an informal book discussion focusing on both new and classic fiction titles. Snacks and a limited number of books are provided. For details, call 817-503-1155. Public Library, Colleyville.

FRI 14 TCU BASEBALL SUMMER PROSPECT SHOWCASE CAMP Through August 16. For high school ages only. For more info and to sign up, visit www.tcubaseballcamps.com.

LIVE CREATIVELY 6:30-7:30pm. Live Creatively invites tweens to do a monthly craft project. There is a different project each month to encourage participants to let their creativity shine. Projects can include duct tape, paint, glue, glitter, etc., so dress accordingly. Ages 10-18. For details, call 817-503-1155. Public Library, Colleyville.

ME AND MY AMERICAN GIRL DOLL CLASS

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DOKTOR KABOOM! LOOK OUT, SCIENCE IS COMING!

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Science has never been more fun as the good Doktor leads an educational

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4-6pm. Decorate a personalized towel for yourself and a matching towel for your doll! $22 per child. Ages 5 & up. Reservations required. 817-424-1417. Sunshine Glaze, Southlake Town Square, Southlake.

6:30-10pm. Bring the family out for arcade games, 80s music, refreshments and roller skating! $7 per person or

$5 with a MAC Card under 2 years are Free. Roller skates are NOT provided. Mansfield Activities Center, 106 S. Wisteria, Mansfield. 817-453-5420

TASTES & TUNES 5-8pm. New to Farmers Branch is the summer food truck series, Tastes & Tunes! There will be a live band, variety of food trucks, wine/craft beer, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Limited seating is available so lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. Free Admission, Free Parking! The Grove @ Mustang Crossing, 12800 Denton Drive, Farmers Branch. 972-919-1433

SAT 15 OPEN HOUSE AT NORTH RICHLAND HILLS MONTESSORI 10am-2pm. 8725 North Tarrant Pkwy, North Richland Hills. 817-281-9992. www.nrhmontessori.com. See ad in this issue.

BUTTERFLIES AND BUGS! FAMILY FESTIVAL 10am-3pm. Join us for our annual celebration of insects! Discover live and pinned insects, family friendly activities, butterfly house tours, crafts and more. Included with admission Dallas Discovery Gardens, Dallas. 214-4287476 x 240

HAWAIIAN FALLS 5K 6-11pm. Regular Registration-$39. Team Registration-$39. 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk$35. Kids 7 and under (No shirt)-$25 Spectator Ticket (Park & After-Party Entrance only)-$17 Hawaiian Falls-Mansfield, 490 Heritage Pkwy, Mansfield. www.hfalls.com/mansfield

STARS ON THE PRAIRIE 8:30-10:30pm. Join us for a fascinating evening as we visit a dark spot in LLELA’s prairie restoration area to explore the wonders of the night sky. Ages 5 and up. There is a $5 program fee, in addition to the regular gate fee ($5/ person). If the sky is cloudy, we will still meet and take a night hike. Reservations are required at 972-219-3930 or erin.taylor@unt.edu. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E. Jones Street, Lewisville.

SUN 16 BACKYARD REPTILES 1-3pm. We can encounter reptiles in our backyards while gardening, cleaning, or enjoying a summer’s day. Join us as we discuss what common reptiles may

inhabit your backyard, what their diets consist of, and unique behaviors they may exhibit. Get a better understanding of your reptilian neighbors. FREE (with paid admission). Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth.

BICENTENNIAL PARK 6am-11pm. Get the whole family out for some park fun at Southlake’s premier park facility! It is one of Southlake’s largest parks and is home to baseball fields, the Liberty Gardens, a new playground, The Marq Southlake, Drinking Fountains, Fishing Pond, Grills, Inline Hockey Court, Meeting Room, Multi-Use Trails, Parking, Pavilions, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restrooms, and Tennis Courts! 450 W. Southlake Boulevard, Southlake. 817-748-8019

MON 17 BUBBLE, SMOKE, EXPLOSIONS 9-10am. Ages 6-10. For details, call 817503-1180. McPherson Park, Colleyville.

TUE 18 FALL CLASSES BEGIN AT NORTH CENTRAL BALLET Classes offered for ages 2- adult, beginner – professional. 12077 Katy Rd, Suite 713, Keller. Register today! 817-428-8232, northcentralballet. com. See ad in this issue for 2 weeks free coupon.

RANGERS VS SEATTLE MARINERS 7:05pm start time. First 7,500 fans, 13 & under receive a Back to School Backpack! Now that deal is quite the catch! Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington. www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

WED 19 PIRATE BEACH AT LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER Geared towards children ages three to 10 (but fun for ALL ages), Pirate Beach features more than 30 interactive gadgets pumping and spraying thousands of gallons of water. Structured after a shipwrecked pirate vessel, Pirate Beach’s central feature is a playground where kids can navigate through water jets and fountains, squirt cannons and splash down water slides. Looming at the top of the 20-foot-tall mast is a 50-gallon bucket poised to dump water on guests every few minutes. Throughout Pirate Beach, guests will also encounter over Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

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KNOW IT ALL 12 interactive models and a soft play area that include pirates, cannons, treasure chests, palm trees and sand castles. Bring your buccaneers, bathing suits, towels, change of clothes and prepare for fun…if ye dare! Legoland Discovery Center, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine. 877-818-1677

THU 20 BUTTERFLY TEA PARTY FEATURING “BONJOUR BUTTERFLY” 10:30am-12:30pm. Enjoy ‘fancy’ activities, tea, snacks, and more as we celebrate the book, “Bonjour Butterfly,” by Jane O’Connor! We’ll end our party with crafts and special edition of our noon butterfly release. Fancy Nancy Series © 2009 Jane O’Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. Adults pay regular admission. $12 ages 3-11 / $10 members $3 ages 1-3 / $2 members at door purchase; $2/child surcharge. Discovery Gardens, Dallas. 214-428-7476 x 240

FRI 21 COLEMAN FAMILY ADVENTURE FEST August 21-23. Experience the ultimate in outdoor adventure with fun for ages 7 and up. Archery, launching rockets, fishing, ATV safety, robotics, a virtual zip line, rock wall, celebrity guests and more. $12 includes all activities all day. Irving Convention Center, Irving. www. familyadventurefest.com.

NORTH FAIR AND RODEO 6-10pm. Through August 28. The North Fair & Rodeo is an annual nine-day fair and rodeo held in August and is located off of Carroll Blvd. in Denton. Offering activities for all ages including: live concerts, horse & livestock shows, contests, cook-offs, food, fun, games and more. ADULTS $15, CHILD (7 – 12) $5, UNDER 6 FREE! PARKING $5, SEASON PASS $90, 4 DAY PASS $40. North Fairgrounds, 2217 N. Carroll Blvd., Denton. www.northtexasstatefair.com

STOCKYARDS CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO 6:30-8:30pm. This Fort Worth rodeo is held at Cowtown Coliseum and hosted by Stockyards Championship Rodeo of Texas. Stockyards Championship Rodeo is the world’s only year-round rodeo every Friday and Saturday night at the historic Fort Worth Cowtown Coliseum! That’s two hours of western rodeo events with a strong commitment to showing visitors an authentic Western Cowboy Experience! Admission: Gener-

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al: $21; Children 12 & under: $13.50; Seniors (60+): $16; Reserved Box Cowtown Coliseum, 121 E. Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth. 817-625-1025

SAT 22 HATCH CHILE FESTIVAL Get your hot roasted hatch chiles at the annual Hatch Chile Festival! Join us for live music, food, and much more! Also, shop the markets fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles, and more. Grand Prairie Farmer’s Market, 120 W. Main Street, Grand Prairie. www. grandfungp.com

CANOE TOUR 7:30-10am. Tour a stretch of the West Fork of the Trinity River to view ducks, herons, beaver and other critters. Sunscreen, water and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Wear shoes that can get wet. Canoes, paddles and life-jackets are provided. Children must be 5 years or older. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children. Some previous experience is recommended. Minimum-5 / Maximum-12 participants. Meet at Big River Parking Lot. Pre-registration required. $20 (includes admission fee)/MEMBERS $15. Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil ridge Road, Fort Worth.

REFUGE BUS TOUR 1:30-3pm. Beat the heat and join a Naturalist for a driving tour of the Refuge. This excursion will include a little bit of everything from hidden history to the plants and animals that can be found at the Refuge. We will make a few stops along the way to view prairie dog town, the Lotus Marsh Boardwalk and other points of interest. Pre-registration required. $10 (includes admission)/MEMBERS $5. Ft. Worth Nature Center and refuge, 9601 Fossil ridge Road, Fort Worth.

4TH SATURDAY MATINEE 2-4pm. The Library hosts a free screening of a recently released movie! Popcorn will be provided. For more information, including movie titles, contact the Library’s Information Desk at 817-743-4840. Keller Public Library, 640 Johnson Road, Keller.

MANSFIELD FARMERS MARKET 8am-1pm. Come see your favorite vendors and check out the new ones. Come early for the best selection of farm-fresh produce, handmade breads and baked goods, specialty foods and products from our expert crafters. 206 Smith Street, Mansfield.

SAME OLE SONG Above and Beyond Productions presents Same Ole Song, a play by Leola Gross. The dramatic story follows an emotional journey that ultimately leads to transformation, restoration and healing. Two show times available: 3 & 7 p.m. l $30 VIP; $22 in advance; $27 at the door. Dupree Theater, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving.

COPPELL FARMERS MARKET 8am-12pm. This is a local food market for farmers, ranchers, and artisan food producers. Come on out and support local farmers and vendors! Old Town Coppell, 768 W. Main St., Coppell. www.coppellfarmersmarket.org

SUN 23 FOLD A FROG 1:30 & 3pm. Join a naturalist to learn more about our local frog species including how you can recognize them by their calls and how you can help protect them in the wild. Concluding the program, make a folding paper jumping frog to take home with you. FREE (with paid admission). Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth.

DALLAS CITY TOUR DallasCityTour.com is a sightseeing tour that shows you the attractions in Dallas, Texas. Get tickets to see our 90 minute bus tour and enjoy our 45 minute JFK sightseeing tour around downtown Dallas including an informative JFK conspiracy tour. Our adventure sightseeing tour includes stops at Dealey Plaza, Lee Harvey Oswalds home, theater, Officer Tippets Memorial and many more historical locations that will help you discover what happened to John F Kennedy’s visit that fatal day. Our Dallas tour includes a 45 minute Dallas attraction tour that includes stops at Victory Plaza, Bishops Arts District, Perot Museum, Margaret Hunt Bridge, Trinity Groves, Pioneer Plaza and much more. Dallas City Tour, 100 S Houston Street, Dallas. 214-315-4426 dallascitytours.com

MON 24 HOMESCHOOL INFORMATIONAL MEETING 7-8:30pm. Have you been thinking about homeschooling? Wondering what’s involved, how it works, and if it’s right for your family? Our “Getting Started” information meetings are designed to teach you the basics of homeschooling and help you get

started on the right foot. Admission: free. Contact information: Anne Gebhart at events@heartoftex.org. No registration required Bedford Library South Meeting Room, Bedford.

OLIVER NATURE PARK 5am-9pm through October. Oliver Nature Park is an ideal location for adults, families, and students to connect with and learn about our environment, through exploration and hands-on activities. Park attractions include: Treehouse overlook, windmill, wildflower area, flood plain boardwalk and natural amphitheater just to name a few! 1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield.

TUE 25 MEERKATS 3D Meerkats 3D takes audiences on a journey into the world of a family of meerkats — headed by fierce matriarch Klinky — as they cope with the challenges of life in the Kalahari Desert. Klinky and the rest of her family, including regular babysitters Miss Bean and Harry, must survive turf wars from rival clans and attacks from vicious predators big and small, all the while keeping one eye on the precious pups. Cute, cuddly, and full of mischief, meerkats are also tough, tenacious, and not to be messed with if their pups are threatened. Their adorable looks belie strength of purpose and innate intelligence that will amaze and beguile audiences of all ages! Admission: $6$8 (plus museum admission) or FREE to members Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas.

WED 26 LAST DAY TO REGISTER FOR FALL CLASSES AT NORTH LAKE COLLEGE Classes begin August 31. www.northlakecollege.edu.

TEXAS RANGERS VS TORONTO BLUE JAYS 7:05pm start time. Bring the family out for $1 hot dog night and some great baseball! Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington. www.texas. rangers.mlb.com

THU 27 KEEPING IT REAL NONFICTION BOOK CLUB 11am-12pm. Share your thirst for knowledge with others, while discussing nonfiction books. Snacks are provided. Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Suburban Parent!

AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

KNOW IT ALL Ages 18 and up. For details, call 817503-1155. Public Library, Colleyville.

LADIES NIGHT 6-9pm. Ladies enjoy free studio fees on ceramic painting plus 20% off mosaics & glass fusion. BYOB. Reservations recommended for groups of 5 or more. 817-424-1417. Sunshine Glaze, Southlake Town Square, Southlake.

MASTERWORKS CONCERT: REVOLVING DOOR 7-8pm. Revolving Door is a Dallas/Ft. Worth-based Country, Classic Rock, and Blues cover band comprised of musicians who enjoy playing the good stuff from music history. Their members have a combined experience of more than 75 years of musical entertainment excellence. Revolving Door is a six piece blend of energy and excitement. The best musical talents were selected not only for stunning musicianship, but also for their unique combination of intensity and lyricism. You can expect to hear vocal harmonies, searing lead guitar, rock solid bass, and driving drums. Hurst Public Library, 901 Precinct Line Road, Hurst.

EVENING STROLL WITH A NATURALIST 7:30-9pm. Come and enjoy an evening stroll on the Nature Center’s trails as we explore nature before nightfall. Evening provides a unique opportunity to view animals that make the Nature Center their home. Bring water and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Pre-registration required. Meet at Front Gate. $10 (includes admission fee)/ MEMBERS $5. Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth,, 817-392-7410

FRI 28 PARENT’S NIGHT OUT 5:30-8:30pm. Parents, enjoy your night out while the kids learn the clay coil method and make a coil pot. Pizza will be served! $30 per child with a $5 discount for siblings! Ages 5 & up. Reservations required. 817-424-1417. Sunshine Glaze, Southlake Town Square, Southlake.

UTA WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL GAME 7-9pm. Come out and watch UTA Women’s Volleyball take on Campbell in the Maverick Classic at 7 p.m. at College Park Center! College Park Center, 601 S. Spaniolo Dr., Arlington. 817-272-5584

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FULL MOON PADDLE 7:30-10pm. Come and join us for a different type of canoe tour in the evening hours. This program will present new opportunities, like hearing beavers slap the water with their tails and seeing deer and raccoons. Canoes, paddles and life-jackets are provided. Dress for the weather. Wear shoes that can get wet. Children must be 5 years or older. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children. Some previous experience recommended. Minimum-5 / Maximum-12 participants. Meet at the Back Gate. Pre-registration required. $20 (includes admission fee)/MEMBERS $15. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

SAT 29 SUMMER SATURDAY SPEAKER SERIES 10-11:30am. Animals of the Cross Timbers-Peek into history and you will see bison roaming the vast grasslands along with prairie dogs, mountain lions, black-footed ferrets, and burrowing owls. Today, most of these species have been devastated from the land, but it is still a sanctuary for coyotes, bobcats, foxes, wild turkeys, and hundreds of migratory birds Presenter: Hester Schwarzer, Master Naturalist-RSVP now! Bob Jones Nature Center, 355 E. Bob Jones Road, Southlake. 817-491-6333

FARMHOUSE ON THE GRAPE VINE PRAIRIE “HARVEST” 10am-12pm. Come to Nash Farm and help harvest the cash crops of the year. Participants will have the opportunity to pick cotton and weave wheat straw into braid. Chapter references will include Little House in the Big Woods, “Harvest” and “Wonderful Machine,” as well as, On the Banks of Plum Creek, “Wonderful House” and “Glittering Cloud”. This monthly series is designed for 3rd-7th grade students, but all ages are welcome. Space is limited. Admission: $3 per person. Nash Farm, 626 Ball Street, Grapevine.

ALMOST LOST 2-3pm. There is more to extinction that just habitat loss. This one hour live animal presentation will take you on a tour through history to discover some of the now common animals that we almost lost to fashion, food, and fighting. Have we learned our lesson from the past? FREE (with paid admission). Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

St. John the Apostle Catholic School

STORY TIMES ARLINGTON CENTRAL BRANCH 101 East Abram St., 817-459-6900 Mon - Toddler Time 10am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11am, ages 0-2. Tue - Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages. Wed - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

LAKE ARLINGTON BRANCH 4000 West Green Oaks Blvd. 817-478-3762

10:15 am; 0-17 months; Tiny Treasures 11:00 am; 0-17 months; Story Playhouse Early Elementary 4:00pm; grades K-2 Rotates every other week; Story Playhouse Upper Elementary 4:00pm; grades 3-5 Rotates every other week

EULESS PUBLIC LIBRARY 201 N. Ector Dr., 817-685-1493

Wed - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2. Thur Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

Tue - Lapsit 10:30am, non-walker babies; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5. Wed Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5. Thur - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 12-36mos; Preschool Story Time 11am; Family Story Time 6:30pm, all ages.

NORTHEAST BRANCH 1905 Brown Blvd., 817-277-5573

GRAPEVINE PUBLIC LIBRARY 1201 Municipal Way, 817-410-3405

Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

WOODLAND WEST BRANCH 2837 West Park Row Dr. 817-277-5265 Tue - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2. Wed Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7.

SOUTHEAST BRANCH 900 S.E. Green Oaks Blvd. 817-459-6395 Wed - Preschool Storytime 10:30am, ages 3-7. Fri - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 2-3; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2. 2nd Sat Only - Family Story Time 10:30am, all ages.

SOUTHWEST BRANCH 3311 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd. 817-459-6386 Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-7. Thur - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18mos3yrs; Bouncing Babies 11:15am, ages 0-2.

EAST BRANCH 1624 New York Ave., 817-275-3321 Mon - Wee Reads - Bilingual 10:30am, ages 3-4.

BEDFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY 2424 Forest Ridge Dr., 817-952-2350 Registration is required for BabyGarden Story Times only. Tues - The Story Spot 10:15 & 11am, ages 2 and up. Thur - BabyGarden Sprouts Story Time 10:10am, pre-walkers; BabyGarden Peapods Story Time 10:50am, walkers (0-1yr); Twosees Story Time 11:45am, ages 2-3. 4th Fri Only - Family Fun Friday 3:45pm, all ages.

COLLEYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY 110 Main St., 817-503-1150 NO STORYTIMES IN AUGUST. STORYTIMES WILL RESUME IN SEPTEMBER. Mon - Especially for 3’s; 10:15 am; age 3; Preschool Story Time; 10:15 am; ages 4 – 5; Home 2 Library Connection: Early Elementary; 2:00 Rotates every other week; Home 2 Library Connection: Upper Elementary; 2:00 Rotates every other week; Snacks and Stories; 4:00; K-2; Adventure Kidz 4:00pm; grades 3-5; Tue - Toddler Tales; 10:15 am; ages 18 - 36 months; Toddler Tales; 11:15 am; ages 18 - 36 months; Preschool Story Time; 10:15 am; ages 4 – 5; Wed - Toddler Tales; 10:15 am; ages 18 - 36 months; Shake, Rattle & Read; 10:15 am; ages 3; Thur - Tiny Treasures

Tue - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos; Preschool Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-5. Wed - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos, Preschool Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-5. Thur - Toddler Time 10:15am, ages 18-36 mos; Preschool Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-5.

“Catholic Education in the Classical Tradition” at a Nationally Recognized Blue Ribbon School

OPEN ENROLLMENT 2015-2016

Contact Teresa Ramirez, Director of Admissions

www.stjs.org

50th Anniversary

817-284-2228

7421 Glenview Dr • North Richland Hills, TX 76180

St. John the Apostle Child Care Great Beginnings since 1977

> Full and Part-time School 1 year old thru 3 year olds

> Summer Camps available

HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY 901 Precinct Line Rd. 817-788-7300

1 year old thru 8th grade

Mon - Toddler Time 10am, ages 1-3. Tue Story Time 10:45am, ages 3-6. Thur - Toddler Time 10am, ages 1-3

KELLER PUBLIC LIBRARY 640 Johnson Rd., 817-743-4840 Mon - Spanish Storytime 11am; Family Storytime 6pm, all ages. Tue - Preschoolers 10:15am, ages 3-6; Baby Time (registration required) 11am, ages 0-18 mos; Toddlers 11:30am, ages 1836 mos. Wed - Preschoolers 10:15am, ages 3-6; Baby Time (registration required) 11am, ages 0-18 mos; Toddlers 11:30am, ages 18-36 mos. Sat - Preschoolers 12:15pm, ages 3-6; Baby Time (registration required) 1pm, ages 0-18 mos; Toddlers 1:30pm, ages 18-36 mos.

> Before and After School Care www.stjohnchildcare.org 7341 Glenview Dr • North Richland Hills, TX 76180 817-595-2654

MANSFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY 104 S. Wisteria, 817-473-4391 Tue - Story Time for Tots 10:30am, ages 0-3 Wed - Listeners Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5. Thur - Bilingual Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5 Fri - Baby Story Time 10:30am.

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS PUBLIC LIBRARY 9015 Grand Ave., 817-427-6800 Tue - Toddler Time 10am, ages 18-36 mos., Sunset Story Time 7:00pm. Wed - Story Time 10:15 & 11:15am, ages 3-6.

ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY 308 S. Walnut, 817-491-2691 Mon - Story Time at McDonald’s (1100 N. Hwy. 377) 10:45am, all ages. Tue - Bedtime Story Time 7pm, all ages. Fri - Story Time with Katy Kitten 10:30am, all ages.

SOUTHLAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY 1400 Main St., 817-748-8243 Tue - Lap Sit Story Time 10am, infants; Toddler Time 10:45am, ages 2-3; Preschool 11:30am, ages 4-5. Wed - Mother Goose Story Time 10am, ages 1-2; Toddler Time 10:45am, ages 2-3; Preschool Story Time 11:30am, ages 4-5.

All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.

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AUGUST 2015 suburban parent

KNOW IT ALL MILITARY HEROES 5/10K RUN 6-10am. Military Heroes Run is celebrating our 5th Annual 5/10K event. We raise much needed funds to support America’s fighting service members who have suffered injuries while defending the freedoms which we all enjoy. We have raised and donated over $40,000 in our 4 years hosting this event. This year we will be just as successful! Byron Nelson High School, 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club.

GRAND PRAIRIE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 9am-5pm. The Grand Prairie Dragon Boat Festival celebrates the ancient tradition of dragon boat racing with more than 400 paddlers at Loyd Park on Joe Pool Lake. Watch the races from the beach or right in the cool water. Play sand volleyball. Grab a refreshment at the beer garden or food trucks. Browse the craft marketplace with local vendors. Grab a swimsuit, the whole family, and come enjoy the sun with us. (Park entry fee is $10 per car.) Loyd Park on Joe Pool Lake, 3401 Ragland Rd, Grand Prairie. 972-264-1558

ROANOKE FARMER’S MARKET 8am-12pm. The Roanoke Farmer’s Market is back! Join us each Saturday through September at Fresh produce from area farmers in historic, downtown Roanoke! For more information, contact Kraig Copp, Roanoke Fresh Produce Farmer’s Market Manager, at 940-3913360. Austin Street Plaza, 221 N. Oak Street. Roanoke.

SUN 30 FORKED TAIL CREEK HIKE 1-3pm. This trail often gets overlooked in favor of the Boardwalk or Greer Island. Join us as we give some well-deserved attention. This is a great trail to survey the tall trees that house many birds including the Barred Owl. The route hugs Forked Tail Creek and allows you the opportunity to see animals using it as a corridor when the water levels are low. The forest provides plenty of shade and another opportunity to hike during the summer hours with more ease. FREE (with paid admission). Ft Worth Nature Center and Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Road, Fort Worth. 817-392-7410

SAVE THE DATE SEP 3 TOUR NIGHT AT COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 7pm. CCA serves students ages PK3 – Grade 12. 901 Cheek Sparger Rd, Colleyville. 817-281-4333 x 1, www.covenantchristian.net. See ad in this issue.

SEP 6 LATINO BRIDAL & QUINCE GIRL EXPO! 12–5pm. An energetic Quinceanera & Bridal expo that highlights products and services designed to make the wedding and quinceanera celebration a success! This Expo is highlighted by fashion shows that present the latest styles of gowns, tuxedos and accessories. There will be professional consultants, event professionals, quinceanera planners, workshops and more! Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Fwy, Dallas.

SEP 12 OPEN AUDITIONS FOR THE NUTCRACKER AT NORTH CENTRAL BALLET This is our 23rd Anniversary Season. Audition times are 10am (Age 5), 11:15am (ages 6-8), 12:30pm (ages 9-12), and 2pm (ages 13+). Audition fee: $10/ dancer. 12077 Katy Rd, Ste. 713, Keller. 817-428-8232. See ad in this issue.

SEP 19 ECOFEST ARLINGTON Presented by Arlington Parks and Recreation. Live entertainment, food and free fun for the entire family. 10am10pm, Founders Plaza/Levitt Pavilion. For more info, visit ecofestarlington. com. See ad in this issue.

OCT 20 OPEN HOUSE AT GRAPEVINE FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL We develop and graduate Authentic Christian Leaders. Primary 3s-12th Grade. Additional dates Nov 10 & Dec 8. Visit GrapevineFaith.com to register for an Open House or call 817-4421605. See ad in this issue.

Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates & times, confirming with the event venue before going is always a good idea.

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TOP TEN THINGS NOT TO LET YOUR CHILDREN WATCH Children are very easily influenced by the world around them. Television offers hours of entertainment, but it also offers a large amount of negative content to young audiences. It is important to be mindful of what your children are watching. One option to you as a parent is parental control restrictions found on most cable and satellite providers. When thinking about what is and is not appropriate for your children to watch, keep in mind the following top ten things not to let your children watch.

PROGRAMMING WITH BAD LANGUAGE AND VIOLENCE. Children repeat things that they hear. Shelter their

ears. They also mimic behavior they see. Studies have shown that after watching violent programming, children behave more aggressively directly following. TV-14 is there for a reason, be careful.

NUDITY AND SEXUAL CONTENT. Protect their inno-

cent little eyes from nudity and sexual content. They are too young for it and do not have the maturity to handle it. Also, you do not want to awaken sexual desires prematurely, it will open a whole load of issues to deal with as a parent.

GRAPHIC SCENES ON CRIME DRAMAS. Crime dra-

mas are very popular right now and many children enjoy them. Some of the content is even educational. However, shield their eyes from scenes that show the victim or other gruesome scenes with the victim if you still think they should watch the program.

TELEVISION VERSIONS OF HIGHER RATED FILMS. Just because a PG-13 or R-rated film was edited for

a television audience, it does not mean that is appropriate for a younger audience. If the film was originally rated PG-13 or R, the content is likely not appropriate for younger audiences. Watch the opening of the movie to see what areas the higher rating was for such as violence or language. And nowadays, you even have to be careful with PG ratings.

HIGHER RATED FILMS WHICH YOU YOURSELF HAVE NOT SEEN. Do not watch a film that you have

never seen with questionable material with your child that is rated above their age. Allowing the kids to watch just because it is more convenient for you is of poor taste.

ADULT CARTOONS. Animated does not mean child friendly. There are adult cartoons that are extremely inappropriate for child audiences. These cartoons often contain bad language and sexual imagery.

GLORIFYING ALCOHOL/DRUG USE. Alcohol and

drugs can be presented to look very cool and fun without any attention given to their dangers. Avoid positive representations of alcohol and drugs since children are easily influenced. Also, explain to your children the risks and health dangers associated with the two.

TOO MANY COMMERCIALS. Television is saturated

with commercials trying to sell you something. During children’s programming, most of the commercials are targeted for children and feature toys. Their purpose is to get the kids to beg their parents to buy the toy for them. In turn, these commercials spur greediness and the desire for instant gratification.

INAPPROPRIATE MUSIC VIDEOS. The most popular

songs of today offer at least a lyric or two that is inappropriate for younger audiences. The music videos display even more, or perhaps you should say less, because of the small amount of clothing usually any them. Some music videos are fine, but again, just be aware of what your kids are watching.

TOO MUCH NEWS. It is important that your children

be aware of what is going on in the world. Let them watch the news with you and discuss it with them. However, monitor the news and its images; your children do not need to know everything and all of the details. The news often contains violence and graphic images that can really upset them. — Reprinted with permission

This is where dads in any stage of fatherhood can find helpful resources to aid in their parenting. Fathers can also sign up to start or attend one of our All Pro Dads chapters.

WWW.ALLPRODAD.COM 40

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FUN STUFF

Source: ydtalk.com

{ LIFE IS BETTER WHEN YOU’RE LAUGHING }

HOW MANY FEET ARE ON A FOOTBALL FIELD?

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A BAT SWALLOWS A DOORBELL?

DEPENDS ON HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE STANDING ON IT.

IT TURNS INTO A DINGBAT!

WHAT HAS FEET BUT NO LEGS? A YARDSTICK.

End of Summer Fun EDUCATION IS WHAT REMAINS AFTER ONE HAS FORGOTTEN WHAT ONE HAS LEARNED IN SCHOOL. — ALBERT EINSTEIN

LOL WITH JAMES ESTES!

It’s coming. Summer’s end. Finish strong with one or more of these fun activities. • Make a fort out of cardboard boxes • Visit the farmer’s market • Go on a scavenger hunt • Pick berries • Make ice cream • Have a backyard luau • Set up a lemonade stand • Have a water balloon fight • Visit a museum, the zoo or aquarium • Go on a nature walk and make a collage with your findings • Race paper boats in a kiddie pool with straws • Go camping (in the backyard or campsite) • Make a giant slip-n-slide with a painter’s tarp and shaving cream • Pick a town nearby and go for the day • Make some pet rocks

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM Our sweet preschool daughter shut her finger in a drawer and had a small “ouchie.” At church the next day there was some commotion as she turned and held up her finger high into the air to show all the people in the pews behind us her boo-boo. It wouldn’t have been so disruptive if it hadn’t been her middle finger! — CHERI K.

SUBMIT YOUR FUNNY STORY: editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “Funny”

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BACKTALK { BY KEN SWARNER }

TIME FOR DINNER

am a big believer in the importance of family dinnertime. It’s a place

capable of sitting at a dinner table and explaining how unreasonable

to stay connected with the people I love. Set in a confined space,

his science teacher is while bread crumbs are shooting out of his mouth

it forces my children to spend a half hour or so relating with their

like a ticker tape parade.

mom and I while enjoying one of life’s most basic needs – food. It’s a Since my first child was small, we have gathered whenever possible

around our kitchen table to enjoy an evening meal together.

to eat at someone else’s house. I just hate the thought that a parent is sitting around his or her own table (watching in horror as my Viking child

I, of course, use the word “enjoy” quite loosely.

pounds through three helpings), worrying that once the food runs out

It’s nice to check in with my kids, hear about their days and share in

things could get dicey.

a little family fellowship; I just wish I wasn’t dining with Vikings. In the past 16 and a half years my wife and I have sat down with the direct descendents of Eirikr the Wolfer, Gandalfr the Grabber and Queen Rannveig of the Open Mouth Chewers.

My children assure me that they know how to behave when they are in other people’s homes. They say they don’t eat like barbarians anywhere else but at our own dinner table. I guess they mean one of three things when they say that:

They take no prisoners.

1. They feel comfortable to be themselves at my dinner table.

I understand why some parents don’t buy into the family dinner hour.

2. They don’t want to embarrass their parents in public.

Like me, they want to bond with their children, and yet they don’t want to see evolution staring them in the face every night. I don’t need to go into a lot of detail. I’ll just say this – I haven’t had

3. They hate their mother and I. Still, people who have children that are now grown and moved away tell me that I should be thankful that at least my kids put on a good

to buy our dog food in years. And yet I am still setting the table for five

show when not at my own dinner table. They say that what other people

– inviting my children nightly to the table just like the hapless people

don’t know can’t hurt me. That’s true, I suppose. I just pray I never run

of Troy happily invited in a Trojan horse. I suppose I shouldn’t compare

out of food and have to test that theory.

my children to a Trojan horse, because, to be fair, a Trojan horse isn’t

My biggest concern though isn’t the pillaging going on at my own house. I am worried whenever a child of mine gets in the family drekar

tradition that spans the times.

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<sigh>. SP

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