Suburban Parent: Irving

MARCH 2016 | FREE

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IRVING | LAS COLINAS | VALLEY RANCH

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR MEALS

HOPPY EASTER!

DIY PAPER-CHAIN

OUR ARTS ISSUE

EXPOSE

YOURSELF TO

THE ARTS

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patrick Hempfing Christina Katz Ken Swarner

CALENDAR EDITOR Lara Haynes

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Courtney Blissett www.bliss-photography.com

AD DESIGNERS Victor Perry Luis Robles So Hee Lee Won

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Denise Miller Julie Lesser Williams

AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com

ACCOUNTING Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com

CONTACT US FACEBOOK facebook.com/suburbanparentmagazines facebook.com/irvingparent facebook.com/momsolvers facebook.com/dfwfamilia

MARY SHARES WELCOME TO OUR “A L L A B O U T T H E A R T S ” I S S U E !

W

hy are we so interested in the Arts? Well, it has become apparent that having interests in the Arts is beneficial for our whole-self; especially for our children. Learning to create during the early development stages helps our kids for future development. Yes, even cutting paper strips to make a paper chain helps with this; that’s why we recommend it in our “We Love This” feature page. Something so simple can build very important motor skills, language skills (talking about the different colors and shapes), and visual learning.

I can remember my son had a thing for golf balls; we had to keep one (or more) in the car so he could hold it in his little hand. Somehow JESUS SAID TO during a car ride, there was not a ball in the car and he was not happy. So HER, “I AM THE I grabbed a receipt and crunched it up into a tight ball and said, “Hey, I RESURRECTION AND made a ball!” This worked and he was happy again. Later, at home, I saw THE LIFE. HE WHO him with some paper from the magazine basket trying to make a ball with BELIEVES IN ME WILL LIVE, EVEN THOUGH his tiny hands. Now grown, he is studying engineering at Texas A&M! HE DIES; AND Fire up both hemispheres of the brain! I read that in order for the WHOEVER LIVES brain to be efficient, the two hemispheres must work together; so AND BELIEVES IN ME stimulating and exercising the right side of the brain with creativity WILL NEVER DIE. matters. Talk to your kids about interesting art, their own and others; — JOHN 11:25-26 dance to different types of music. My niece loved dancing with long ribbons in both hands at a very young age; her mom would play music and she would dance to the rhythms with her ribbons flowing all around her. Play with musical instruments, maybe you have a flute hiding away; get it out! Go to museums and check out the art and then visit the children’s center. Many of our local museums offer amazing hands-on experiences.

And to celebrate Easter, color Easter eggs! Let your kids choose the color coordination. Moms, it’s okay if it’s not perfect (or even attractive); it’s ART!

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EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com

PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063

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COVER MODEL Allie, 11 years Irving Parent and Suburban Parent are registered trademarks.

Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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Allie is a lovely young lady with a giant heart who enjoys helping others. She also loves art, especially drawing and painting. (She wanted to paint the bluebonnets in the picture!) When she grows up, she would like to use her artistic talents to be an artist or fashion designer.

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YOU SHOULD KNOW Sing to Read One way to improve reading fluency is to have your kids read along to songs they love to sing. Try it! Give them a lyric sheet and watch the progress.

Sure, in the beginning the words are mostly memorized, but after repeated reading, they’ll start to recognize the words. Its great fun and any song you both enjoy will work.

Go on, make a playlist, print out the lyrics and start singing.

LET THEM PLAY WITH SCISSORS! Not unattended of course, but yes; most kids are ready to start using scissors at age 2. Learning to use scissors properly early on helps develop the fine motor skills and dexterity they’ll need later for writing.

Plus they love it! Give them a good pair of safety scissors with a blunt point, but sharp enough to cut. Go over scissor safety and start with thick paper (like cardstock). Tip: Put a dot on their thumb and teach them to keep their thumb facing up. And to reiterate, never, ever leave them alone with the scissors. Once they get the cutting down, try making our spring paper chain craft (see We Love This page.)

MINDFUL EATING Eating in front of the TV (or your cell phone/computer) doesn’t just affect how much you eat at that moment; it can also affect how much you eat later.

Studies show that people who eat while distracted (be it watching TV or playing on a computer) end up snacking more, later, than people who are mindful of their meals while they eat. It’s not just about making healthier choices (although that’s true); it’s about slowing down, savoring your food and controlling your intake.

CHILDREN’S ART AT THE DALLAS ZOO Does your young child like animals and art? If so, the Dallas Zoo has a new program to foster their creativity. The Wild about Art program for children 5-8 years will capture your budding artist’s to explore their creative side using a variety of materials and art techniques; all the while being led in an animal-inspired project by a Dallas Zoo instructor! They will also enjoy up-close animal encounters to inspire them. Who doesn’t like a pink and purple striped tiger!

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EMBRACE THE ARTS Ways to “simply” include more of the arts in your child’s life.

• Make story time more dramatic by acting out stories and/or encouraging kids to create their own.

• Keep a dress up box filled with old costumes, clothes, scarves and hats.

• Maintain a well-stocked “art studio” of crayons, paints, paper, scissors, glue, etc.

• Tune to a different radio station or download some new kinds of music.

• Check out community art shows and musical events on weekends, (like “Chalk this Way” in Lewisville, April 9th; we’ll be there too) • Sign up for an art based summer camp session.

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QUESTIONS { + PROFESSIONAL ANSWERS }

RIHANNA, MOM OF 2 Q. What does it mean to teach children to appreciate art?

REESE, MOM OF 2 TWEENS Q. Why is a Fine Arts Education important?

A. Teaching children to appreciate art is really

fine arts education and academic development have found that learning the fine arts actually “rewires” a student’s brain in very positive ways that benefit all areas of academics. It is therefore not surprising that school-children exposed to drama, music and dance are more proficient in core subject areas (reading, writing and math), exude higher levels of achievement, and ultimately higher graduation rates. Data shows that greater exposure to fine arts education leads to fewer disciplinary infractions, higher attendance, better teamwork skills, and a more prepared community-member for the modern workplace. Every fine arts student adds a creative voice to our greater communities. These individuals will ensure a self–sustaining arts culture in our communities for years to come.

about teaching them to consider and appreciate others’ ideas. While knowing about art history and influential artists is important, it’s more important for children to understand that all types of art is a way to communicate ideas and feelings. Giving children the power to have their own opinion about the art they view is an important step to raising children who are confident in their own ideas and can consider, but not be intimidated by, people whose views differ from theirs. Making sure your children are exposed to all kinds of art at an early age will enhance your child’s life, and will give them essential tools of expression and thought that are necessary for being happy and productive.

COLOR ME EMPOWERED, Dallas, TX

A. Studies looking into the connection between

TEXAS CENTER FOR ARTS + ACADEMICS

ASHLEY, MOM OF ONE BOY. Q. My child will be attending an away camp soon. How do I say goodbye without tears?

A. You’re going to be emotional, so be prepared.

A week or so in advance discuss home sickness and let him know that it’s okay to miss you and home. Remind him that there will be many new friends that are first time campers too. Then immediately get him excited about all the amusing, heroic, enlightening, and eyebrow raising stories he can share with you when he returns! Let your child decorate the “camp” trunk and help you organize everything he will need to bring; don’t forget name labels, ready to send post cards, and bag tags! On drop-off day, smile big, give him big hug, and tell him you love him. Then pat yourself on the back for staying calm, and remember to write letters from home; campers get to receive mail!

STUCK ON YOU

WE ASKED THE SPECIALIST

Q. I know STEM is such an important topic in schools and for after school activities, but how can I teach my child to “think like an engineer” but still be creative and artistic?

STUDIO BELLA ENRICHMENT

solve problems and making sound judgments and decisions are some of the critical thinking and problem solving

A. Creativity is much more than being a painter, writer, or playing an instrument. Creativity is everywhere and in everyone; it’s a matter of developing it. Teaching skills such as how to reason effectively, utilize systems thinking, skills that use creativity. There are many programs available that teach both creativity and STEM concepts.

Activities such as designing vehicles and devices, engineering structures, creating sets and backdrops, and more, all require combining artful and creative thinking. Just remember that solving problems and using strategies are part of a creative process and you can help your child by understanding that creativity is truly everywhere.

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WE LOVE THIS { YOU WILL TOO }

CHALK THIS WAY AT THE COLORPALOOZA

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A celebration of Spring! Put your chalk artistic skills on display for everyone to see! Children will get the chance to impress visitors with their own coloring, painting, and clay skills. Out of the minds of kids come some of the most vibrant and eyecatching pieces of work! On display will also be amateur and professional chalk art, and, a chalk art scholarship contest!

GET CRAFTY

Ph ot

Photography by shanewelch.com

o credit: Mark Oristano

nart i w this game!

2 Remember that red and green paper chain garland you made for Christmastime? Give it a makeover for springtime! Make it out of pretty double-sided spring colored scrapbook paper.

You know the drill. Cut strips (with scissors or paper cutter), and then tape the ends together to form loops. Hang on your mantel, staircase or curtain rod and enjoy. We love spring!

PUPPETRY ARTS PRODUCTION

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Hansel and Gretel: You don’t need a prince and princess for your heroes to live happily ever after.

When two children get lost in an enchanted forest, they must use all their powers of imagination to save themselves from the crafty old woman in the candy house and get back to their loving parents.

The music of Engelbert Humperdinck brings an inventive theatricality to the retelling of this classic fairy tale. Another feast for the eyes and ears from Master Puppeteers. Dallas Children’s Theatre, March 4 - April 3

TAG THE ART GAME

4 We love this game because it’s fun and collaborative for any number of people of any age. How many other games can say that? Players work together to create an art piece, but no artistic talent is required. You flip a card to find out what medium to use and roll a die to find out what color to use. It’s all very random. All supplies are included and the players decide when the game (art piece) is done. Fun for artists and non-artists, it can be played alone, in small groups or large gatherings. www.tagtheartgame.com, $39.00

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MOMENTS { BY PATRICK HEMPFING }

T he Eggshausting Hunt

D “

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ad, you can’t stop until you find them all.” Jessie spoke these words during last year’s Easter egg hunt. Why did my wife, Mattie, and I teach Jessie not to quit when the going gets tough?

Before I discuss the egg collection, let me describe how Jessie ended up hiding 43 eggs for me to find. I carried the large box containing her plastic eggs from the garage to the kitchen. Jessie said, “I’ll go through them and pull out my favorite ones.” I responded, “No more than 36,” thinking that would be plenty for the Easter Bunny (me) to hide.

Jessie sifted through the box and pulled out her favorites. The variety of colors, shapes, and sizes in the keeper pile made an impressive collection. Jessie counted them and said, “86.” Before I could repeat, “No more than 36,” my quick thinker said, “I know, I’ll hide half of them and you can hide the other half.”

As an experienced husband (married 30 years) and dad (10 years), I learned long ago to choose my battles wisely. I did a quick math calculation and to me, 43 eggs versus 36 didn’t seem like a big deal. I agreed to the negotiated egg-count terms. “Negotiated” sounds better than “I caved.” A daughter’s fluttering eyelashes are hard to resist, especially when she’s wearing an Easter dress.

Egg hiding sure has changed over Jessie’s young life. In her early years, I hopped around the yard and hid both plastic and painted eggs.

Jessie always enjoyed finding them, except for the one the dog found first and ate. However, before too long, Jessie wanted the egg-hiding role. I never imagined I’d have to fight to keep my job as Easter Bunny; I have excellent qualifications. At 6’5”, I can hop a lot higher than Jessie. Mattie has video footage to prove it. In spite of my superior hopping performance, I’ve shared the egg-hiding job with Jessie for the past few years. I hid the eggs first, then after Jessie found them all, we reversed roles.

However, last

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Easter, Jessie’s 11th, she wanted to go first, so she and Mattie proceeded to the yard with her 43 eggs while I stayed in the house and didn’t look.

Alone in the house, I came up with the brilliant plan to hide my eggs inside, which struck me as a win-win for both Easter Bunnies.

I must also share one hide-and-seek rule we implemented long ago so the egg hunt would finish before Christmas. The hider can’t open things and tuck eggs inside. In other words, the Easter Bunny would never lift the garbage-can lid or open the door to the truck parked in the driveway.

Apparently, Jessie forgot about this standing rule. Luckily, she gave me hints. “You’re getting warm, hot, cold, colder.” It’s good she did, too, because I’d still be looking for a few of them. She hid one egg in a vacant bird’s nest inside the birdhouse. She completely covered one egg with pine straw. Somehow, she planted one egg in the spouting at the edge of the roof. Maybe she can hop higher than me? Jessie propped another egg (the last one I found) on a tree branch ten yards into the pine woods behind our house.

My most difficult find, though, was the tiny, pink egg Jessie tucked in the exhaust pipe of our van, which was, technically, out-of-bounds in the garage. Unfortunately, she pushed the egg in too far and it tumbled down the curve in the pipe. I retrieved a flashlight, but couldn’t see it.

Mattie and Jessie stood in the driveway as I started the car, hoping the egg would come out. I turned the key in the ignition. Mattie said the egg shot out about ten feet. All outside eggs had been found – not easily, but at least a trip to the mechanic wasn’t necessary.

Jessie found the inside eggs with ease. Hey, I followed the rules.

This year, I’ll be sure to review the Easter Bunny hiding rules before Jessie heads outside with her basket of eggs. I need to prevent exhaustion issues … for me and my car.

Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy Easter! SP

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BY C H R I S T I N A K AT Z

Why our future depends on

I

CREATIVE THINKERS

f I have observed one thing after a decade of having a school-age child, it’s that arts motivate kids to perform better in school. Sure, my daughter comes from an artsy family already. Her mom is a writer and her dad is a theater director, but she’s not an extension of us; she is uniquely herself, and her exposure to a wide variety of arts helps her discover her own passions, proclivities, and personhood.

The more types of arts my daughter engages in, the happier and more motivated of a student she becomes overall, even in her most challenging academic classes. But don’t take my word for it. Check out the messages broadcasted prolifically by Sir Ken Robinson, author of the book, Finding Your Element, How to Discover Your Talents & Passions and Transform Your Life. One of the most popular TED speakers and a creativity and education expert, Robinson asserts that the job of education is to teach children to become creative thinkers rather than merely good workers.

In addition to Robinson’s theory that a child’s exposure to a steady stream of his or her talents and passions leads to finding future work right in their element, we must remember something else. The greatest challenges faced by

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civilization are going to be solved by our children one day.

Do we want them to behave like well-behaved workers or do we want them to become the creative thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators they were born to be?

Participation in the arts is just as important to raising well-rounded children as participation in academics and athletics. The arts awaken personal power in children by helping them discover their talents and passions organically. I know this is true because my daughter loves to sing, dance, act, and draw already. Recently she’s also started reading Shakespeaare, watching historical documentaries, playing the piano, and taking hip-hop classes.

I am not bragging. But I am keenly aware that I may have been inadvertently putting imagined limits on just how creative my daughter could become. Now, thanks to her example, I am beginning to think that there isn’t anything she can’t do. And isn’t that exactly what I want her to believe?

Why do parents put limits on kids’ creative impulses when creative activities clearly benefit real-world performance? My daughter has got the rest of her life to discover

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and pursue creative activities that light her up from the inside and inspire her to be the best she can be. My job as her mother between now and the day she ventures out into the world is to make sure she never runs out of opportunities to practice being her multi-faceted self. She can sift and sort through what she likes best and doesn’t prefer for herself. She doesn’t need me for that, except to remind her that how she spends her time and energy in life is her choice.

When I leave this world someday, as of course I will-we all will. I want to depart knowing I exposed my daughter to as much personal enjoyment of life as I could. And the arts will have played a leading role in this endeavor.

I don’t want my daughter’s focus in life to be on survival or drudgery; I want her life to be a celebration of the art of being herself. And, in order to do this, she has to explore and assess her talents and abilities in her own ways.

If you are denying your kids

access to the arts because you • Fine arts (drawing, painting, think creativity is less important or sculpture, and printmaking) less valuable than academics and • Photography, video, and athletics, I hope you are planning multi-media arts to stick around for a few more de• Choir and vocal performing cades to witness for yourself the • Band and orchestra important role creativity will play • Theater arts in the evolution of our future.

• Film (fictional and documentary) If you are, as I was, inad• Yearbook vertently capping the amount • Dance • Creative writing of creative activities your kids • Leadership participate in to levels deemed • Robotics reasonable, I hope you will stop.

Instead of cutting the arts out of our kids’ schedules, we need to allow access to as much arts activity as a child’s schedule

permits. They can set the bar • Animation to a level that feels right from • Architecture and design there. Here are twenty-five types • Opera of activities to expose your kids • Ballet to both in school and outside • Crafts of school. Please don’t be con• Cooking fused about whose job it is to • Decorative arts expose our kids to the arts. Arts • Fashion engagement is a parent’s job first, • Woodcrafts before teachers or instructors get • Jewelry involved. Engage your children • Junk, trash, and found art in the arts and watch the magic • Gardening happen. They will thank you for • Performance art your encouragement today and in the future with their smiles and feelings of contentment. SP

Summer Program 2016

IN SCHOOL

OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL

Journalist, author and writing coach Christina Katz is not afraid to get schooled by her teenage daughter. In fact, it might be something that happens more often than she would like to admit.

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J

music s matters 18

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ack and Diane constantly struggle with their family’s demanding schedule. With a family of four, they spend hours coordinating rides to lessons, team practices, and club meetings. Like most families, extra-curricular interests, homework, not to mention fun outings with friends, come together on their family calendar leaving little “down” time.

As they discuss ways to cut down on the numerous commitments, there is one interest they steadfastly refuse to eliminate: Their son’s piano lessons.

In addition to the obvious cultural aspect of music appreciation, research shows there are other advantages too. There have been a number of studies that link music lessons to different facets of learning. One particular study, for instance, found preschoolers demonstrated a 46% boost in their spatial reasoning IQ after eight months of keyboard lessons. (Spatial reasoning abilities are used in higher brain functions such as music, complex math, and engineering functions.)

The effects of music lessons go beyond the immediate. College-bound seniors who participated in a school music program scored 52 points higher on the verbal portion of their SAT’s and 37 points higher in math (89 points combined) than those without arts instruction.

Music awareness is considered a plus on many college applications.

The U.S. Department of Education lists the arts as subjects that college-bound middle and junior high school students should take, stating, “Many colleges view participation in arts and music as a valuable experience that broadens students’ understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

It is also well known and widely recognized that the arts contribute significantly to children’s intellectual development.”

Think a future in medicine awaits your budding scientist? Then you may want to consider music lessons now! A study of medical school applicants showed that 66% of music majors who applied to medical school were admitted. Only 44% of biochemistry majors were admitted.

Simply exposing children to music can have an impact too. According to research presented at the 102nd Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association, music lessons and even simply listening to music can enhance spatial reasoning and performance.

Some parents play music to their children while they are still in the womb. While there is little concrete evidence about the advantages of doing so, there is interesting ongoing research for this practice. It’s been said that, for the unborn child, classical music played at a rhythm of 60 beats per minute, equivalent to that of a resting human heart, provides an environment conducive to creative and intellectual development.

So, if you have never considered music lessons for your child, you may want to revisit the idea! SP

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KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }

MARCH 2016 ONGOING NATURE CONNECTS, A LEGO® BRICK ART EXHIBIT Through April 10. The excitement is building! We’re thrilled to announce our newest exhibit, Nature Connects, a remarkable sculpture show created by artist Sean Kenney using LEGO bricks, at the Dallas Zoo. The installation features 16 displays created from 24 sculptures depicting scenes from the natural world, each carefully built with thousands of LEGO pieces by Kenney. See how one small LEGO® brick, when thoughtfully placed with thousands of others, becomes a larger-than-life hummingbird frozen in flight, a peacock displaying his colorful feathers or a Galapagos tortoise with a Darwin finch perched on its back. These sculptures connect guests to nature and have a big impact in awe-inspiring ways. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, 469-5547500, www.dallaszoo.com.

DALLAS BLOOMS: THE ARTISTRY IN NATURE Through April 10. The largest floral festival in the Southwest, Dallas Blooms returns with the theme “The Artistry in Nature” featuring renowned sculptor Gary Lee Price’s Great Contributors exhibit on display throughout the garden. The garden explodes with 100 kinds of spring bulbs totaling 500,000 blooms and dazzling layers of landscape at every turn. The Great Contributors exhibit is a part of Gary Lee Price’s renowned art collection. A fellow of the National Sculpture Society, Price has been recognized worldwide for his bold work lifting and celebrating the human spirit. The life-size bronze sculptures that will be placed throughout the spring garden include Abraham Lincoln, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Claude Monet, Albert Einstein, William Shakespeare, Mark Twain and the Wright Brothers, many of which are on benches or in garden settings. Dallas Blooms features tulips, daffodils, Dutch Iris and

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hyacinths, pansies, violas, poppies and thousands of other spring-blooming annuals and perennials. The finale of this spring celebration is the mass flowering of the garden’s collection of 3,000 azaleas that bloom during the end of April.

Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, www.dallasarboretum.org.

MARC CHAGALL: INTERSECTING TRADITIONS Through April 22. Featuring over 50 original works, Marc Chagall: Intersecting Traditions is a series of hand water colored etchings depicting scenes from the Old Testament. As a modern, Jewish artist, Chagall approached the Old Testament narratives as a set of stories and recurring themes to be broadly interpreted. We are grateful to their son Patrick Haggerty and the Haggerty Family Foundation for the generous support in making this exhibition possible. Gallery hours: Weekdays, Feb. 5-Apr. 22, 10am-5pm; Weekends, Feb. 6-Apr.16, 12pm-5pm. Spring Break: March 7-10 (By Appointment). Closed for Easter: March 25-28. For information about field trips for students of all ages and to make reservations call 972-721-5087 or email gallery@udallas. edu. University of Dallas, Beatrice M. Haggerty Gallery, 1845 E. Northgate, Irving, udallas.edu/chagall

TUE 1 REGISTRATION STARTS FOR SUPER HERO ART ADVENTURE CAMPS AT IRVING ARTS CENTER Kids learn mad skills, make friends and have a blast at our 13 camps for ages 4-16 jammed with adventures in art, theater, and music. 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving 972-252-2787(ARTS) www.irvingartscenter.com. See ad in this issue.

WED 2 MIDWEEK MYSTERIES 12-1pm. Join us for a lively discussion of the best that the mystery genre has to offer. Topics range from contemporary works to the grand masters who started it all. Bring a brown bag lunch, and we’ll provide beverages. South Irving Library-Board Room, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving, 972-721-2606.

READ ACROSS IRVING: CELEBRATE DR. SEUSS’S BIRTHDAY 4:30-5:30pm. Join us as we celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with games, crafts, prizes, and refreshments. East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery Road, Irving.

THU 3 JUMPSTART STORIES & ART: HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR. SEUSS 10-11am. Green eggs and ham, anyone?

Join us to celebrate the legendary author and illustrator of such classics as Horton Hears a Who, Cat in the Hat, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas and The Lorax. Following the story, kids create a take-home art project and then browse the galleries Ages 2 and up. All supplies provided. Call 972-252-2787 to pre-register groups of 10 or more. Irving Arts Center, 3333 North MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-7558, irvingartscenter. com.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. KINGS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.

FRI 4 HANSEL AND GRETEL

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. MAGIC 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.

Runs March 4 - April 3. See website for specific show times/dates and to purchase tickets. Sensory-friendly per-

formance March 12, 2016 at 4:30pm. You don’t always need a prince and princess for your heroes to live happily ever after.

Two children in search of food for their hungry family get lost in an enchanted forest. They must depend on all their powers of imagination to save them from the crafty, mysterious old woman in the candy house and (in this less “grim” version) lead them back to the loving arms of their parents. The familiar, melodic music of Engelbert Humperdinck brings an inventive theatricality to the retelling of this beloved fairy tale adventure.

Hansel and Gretel brings another feast for the eyes and ears to the stage from Kathy Burks’ Master Puppeteers.

Recommended for ages 4 and up. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, 214-740-0051, dct.org.

NORTH TEXAS IRISH FESTIVAL Runs Fri.-Sun. This is the largest cultural festival in DFW is also revered as one of the best Irish festivals in the U.S. This year’s theme, “Legends and Legacy,” highlights some of the true legends of Irish music who will also grace the stage at North Texas Irish Festival, including crowd favorites Altan and Solas, among other featured performers from around the world. After all that music and dancing, hungry appetites can be satisfied with Irish stew, Shepherd’s pie, or even fish and chips at one of the many food booths featuring traditional Irish cuisine. Blacksmithing demonstrations, horse displays and more allow attendees to experience Celtic culture.

Urchin Street kid-friendly activities include children’s entertainment, a petting zoo, safety demonstrations and art activities. Storytellers will weave tales of Celtic lore for everyone to enjoy. Hours are: Fri: 6-11 p.m.; Sat: 10:30am-11:30pm; Sun: 11:30am-7:30pm. Fair Park Dallas, 1300 Robert B. Cullum Blvd., Dallas, 214821-4173, www.ntif.org.

DALLAS STARS VS. DEVILS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

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KNOW IT ALL SAT 5 FAMILY ZOO ADVENTURES: AMAZING AMPHIBIANS 9:15-11:15am. Did you know that toads swallow with their eyeballs? Or that salamanders can regenerate limbs? Be amazed by the awesome adaptations of amphibians. Each Family Zoo Adventure includes activity stations, animal encounters, and special zoo tours that will make learning fun for young and old alike.

Activities are developed for families with youth between 4 and 12. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, 469-554-7300, www.dallaszoo.com./education/camps-classes/family-programs

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT BOOK CLUB DISCUSSES THE AVIATOR’S WIFE

MON 7 STAAR PREP SPRING BREAK CAMP AT MATHNASIUM OF IRVING

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. CLIPPERS

March 7-11. 9am-12pm. Join us for a cruise themed adventure to prepare for the STARR test. Play math games, learn strategies, and work through practice problems. Another camp runs March 14-18. $199/student. 4000 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving, 972-467-8577 Mathnasium. com/irving. See ad this issue.

TUE 8

March 7-11. 9am- 4pm Explore extreme terrains, learn animal survival skills, meet some real animal oddballs, go on the prowl with animal predators, and become a gourmet with animal foodies at the Dallas Zoo Wild Adventures Spring Break Camps! Each single-day camp features a Zoo tour, games, crafts, and animal encounters unique to each extreme theme. Sign up for one day or come for them all! Register for more than one day and receive a 5% multiple camp discount on the total camp cost.

Camps are for PK-Grade 5. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, 469-554-7300, www.dallaszoo.com./ education/camps-classes/spring-camp.

ANNE FRANK SPRING BREAK PROGRAMMING AT DALLAS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM March 7-10. 1:30-2:30pm. Explore Anne Frank: A History for Today, in a new way with the education staff of the Museum. Each program features readings from The Diary of a Young Girl, followed by a short discussion and learning activity. Recommended for ages 10–18. RSVP required, included in cost of admission to the Museum.

Email ablack@dallasholocaustmuseum. org. to register. Admission $8-$10. Dallas Holocaust Museum, 211 N. Record Street, Dallas, 214-741-7500, www. dallasholocaustmuseum.org. irving parent

2:30-3:30pm. Join us as we meet and learn about native Texas animals. East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery Road, Irving, 972-721-3722.

7pm. Join us for fun, friendship and a lively discussion. This women’s only book club focuses on books about family relationships, love, friendship, and self-discovery. Light refreshments.

March’s book is The Aviator’s Wife by Melanie Benjamin. Check out your copy at the Valley Ranch Library information desk. Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail, Irving, 972-721-4669.

WILD ADVENTURES SPRING BREAK CAMP

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CRITTERMAN LONE STAR JUNIOR SAFARI

MARCH 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Irving Parent!

7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, mavs.com.

TEEN TECH WEEK 2016: INTRODUCING THE POP-UP MAKERSPACE 6:30-8:30pm. Teen Tech Week is when libraries make the time to showcase all of the great digital resources & services that are available to help teens succeed in school, & prepare for college. West Irving Library presents the new Pop-Up Makerspace, a space dedicated to creating, making, & idea generating. Come learn about the projects contained in the space & kick-off the opening with a fun craft that mixes photography & light-manipulation! Grades 6-12, no registration required. West Library Meeting Room, 4444 W. Rochelle, Irving, 972-721-2692.

KIDS’ CORNER: AUTHOR VISIT 7pm. Meet author Karen Blumenthal, who visits the library to discuss her children’s biography Steve Jobs: The Man Who Thought Different. You’ll be able to ask her questions, purchase books and get them signed. South Irving Library Program Room, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving.

WED 9 AFRICAN DRUMMING CIRCLE 2:30-3:30pm. Enjoy learning and playing simple rhythms and songs with African drums! All participants will have their own drum to play. Free, for all ages. No registration required. Part of the West Irving Public Library’s Spring Break Fun Week! West Library Meeting Room, 4444 W. Rochelle Road, Irving, 972-721-2691.

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KNOW IT ALL I “HEART” YA BOOK CLUB: ALL FALL DOWN BY ALLY CARTER 7-9pm. This month’s book is All Fall Down by Ally Carter. There are many powerful people along Embassy Row who want Grace to block out all her un-pretty thoughts. But Grace will not stop until she finds out who killed her mother and make the killer pay.

I “Heart” YA is a book club for those of us who can’t get enough of Young Adult literature. Come connect with fellow readers as we discuss a wide range of YA books. Refreshments will be served. Adults and teens welcome.

South Irving Library Board Room, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving, 972-721-2606.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. PISTONS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www. mavs.com

THU 10 31ST ANNUAL TEXAS STORYTELLING FESTIVAL March 10-13. The theme this year is Stirring the Pot: A Tantalizing Taste of Storytelling Stew. You will hear stories that will bring laughter, wonder, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

Visit the website for festival times and a complete schedule of events. Many events will provide sign language interpreters for the deaf. Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney Street, Denton, 940-380-9320, www.tejasstorytelling. com./index.html.

SCIENCE IN 30: HOMEMADE KALEIDOSCOPES 4:30pm. Kaleidoscopes are a terrific tool for witnessing the effects of refracting light. This experiment is made easy with a cardboard tube and rainbow peepholes! This is a fun way to create your own and enjoy the sights!

Designed for elementary school children and their caregivers. South Irving Library Program Room, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving.

FRI 11 MARCH MUSIC MADNESS GAMING MARATHON 2-4:30pm. Please don’t stop the music!

March Madness is here, and at the South Irving Library, we’re celebrating with a musically-inspired session of the Gaming Marathon. Become a star and form a band with your friends as you rock out to Guitar Hero and Rock Band. Become an inventor at an instrument-making station and create your

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own unique sound. Open to tweens and teens in grades 6-12. South Irving Library Meeting Room #1, 601 Schulze, Irving, 972-721-2606.

PECOS BILL PUPPET SHOW 2:30pm. The Pecos Bill Puppet Show will be a wild and fun adventure for everyone! Free, for all ages. No registration required. Part of the West Irving Public Library’s Spring Break Fun Week!

West Library Meeting Room, 4444 W. Rochelle, Irving, 972-721-2691.

FAMILY SAFARI NIGHT HIKE 7-10pm. Designed just for families! Join us for a Dallas Zoo Family Safari Night Hike and experience the fascinating world of animals after-dark! Enjoy an unforgettable evening with a special Zoo tour, fun-filled activities, and an opportunity to see some of our Education animals up-close. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, 469554-7300, www.dallaszoo.com./education/night-programs/family-nights.

DALLAS STARS VS. BLACKHAWKS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars. nhl.com.

TEXAS BALLET THEATER PRESENTS: CINDERELLA March 10-13. Fri 8pm; Sat 2pm & 8pm; Sun 2pm. Ben Stevenson brings this classic tale to life with both humor and drama. From the comic antics of the ugly stepsisters, to the elegant ball where Cinderella meets Prince Charming and loses her glass slipper; this timeless tale of elegance, romance and transformation is a lavish story audiences can rejoice in over and over again. Visit website to purchase tickets. Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, 2351 Performance Dr, Richardson, 877-828-9200, texasballettheater.org./performance/Cinderella.

SAT 12 FAMILY FUNDAY & MUSEUM DAY LIVE! 12-4pm. Held during Women’s History Month, this “special edition” of Smithsonian’s signature “Museum Day Live!” will feature the following activities: Family Funday (12 noon- 4.p.m.): Featuring hands-on art activities, all supplies provided! Film Screening (1 p.m.): The Empowerment Project will be screened in observance of Women’s History Month and Smithsonian Magazine’s Museum Day Live theme: “inspiring women and girls of color.” The film de-

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KNOW IT ALL tails the incredible journey of a crew of female filmmakers as they drive across America aiming to encourage, empower and inspire the next generation of strong women to go after their career ambitions. Recommended for ages 9 and up. Artists’ Reception (2 -4 p.m.): A reception will be held with the artists from the North Lake College Student photography exhibition which is on display in the Focus Gallery through March 20. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-252-7558, www.irvingartscenter.com.

LATINO-AMERICAN FILM FIESTA: FAMILY FILM AND DISCUSSION 2pm. The viewing and discussion of a film about the many obstacles and challenges of high school math teacher Jamie Escalante, and how he inspires his students to reach for success.

Rated PG. The discussion will be led

by Dr. Yolanda Romero of the History Department of North Lake College, specialist in Mexican-American history.

Refreshments. Funding for Latino-Americans: 500 Years of History is provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the American Library Association (ALA) as part of the initiative The Common Good: Humanities in the Public Square. South Irving Library Meeting Room #3, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving, 972-721-4612.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. PACERS 1pm. American Airline Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.

DALLAS STARS VS. BLUES 8pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

TUE 15 SPRING FLING: LUCK O’ THE IRISH! March 15-18. 10:30am-3:30pm.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day all week at Dallas Heritage Village this Spring Fling. Go on a leprechaun hunt at the Sullivan house and help us link rainbow chains around the Village. Play vintage board games of chance with a roll of the dice or a spin on the wheel at the saloon. Try your luck at horseshoes behind the Millermore home. We will be spinning and twisting golden ropes at the farmstead, too. Put on some green, grab your lucky charms, and head to the Village for a little Irish fun.

Regular admission rates -$9 adults; $7 seniors (65+); and $5 for children ages 4-12. Children under 4 and members of Dallas Heritage Village are admitted free of charge. Dallas Heritage Village, 1515 S. Harwood, Dallas, 214-421-5141, dallasheritagevillage.org.

JUNIOR EXPLORERS BOOK CLUB HAVE COOKBOOK FUN 4:30-5:30pm. Junior Explorer Book Club subject in March is cookbooks for kids. Explore the world of books, with fun activities, crafts and treats!

Free, for ages 2nd grade to 5th grade.

No registration required. West Library Meeting Room, 4444 W. Rochelle, Irving, 972-721-2691.

DALLAS STARS VS. KINGS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars. nhl.com.

THU 17 DALLAS STARS VS. LIGHTNING

MON 14 HERITAGE GIFT SHOP SPRING FLING SALE March 14-18. Buy one of kind handmade items at this wonderful sale.

Hours: M, T, Th & F 9am-8:30pm; W 9am-4:30pm. Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St, Irving 972-7212496 www.cityofirving.org/2061/Senior-Activities. See ad in this issue.

SPRING BREAK SAFARI WEEK March 14-18. 11am-3:30pm. Get out of the house and into the gardens with your family during Spring Break. Enjoy discovery-themed activities and crafts each day! Included with admission.

Texas Discovery Gardens, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Dallas, texasdiscoverygardens.org.

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7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars. nhl.com

FRI 18 THE THREE LITTLE PIGS Runs March 18-April 3. See website for show dates/times and to purchase tickets. From the Broadway writers of Honk! and Mary Poppins, comes a brand new adaptation on a classic tale. The time has come for the three little pigs to seek their fortunes. What will happen to them when the Big Bad Wolf gets in their way? Filled with humor, this endearing musical will leave you squealing with glee and howling with laughter! This is a curly tail not to be missed! Casa Manana, 3101 W. Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, 817-332-2272, casamanana.org.

2015

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KNOW IT ALL THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE Runs March 18-April 10. See website for specific show dates/times and to purchase tickets. Sensory-friendly performance April 9, 2016 at 1:30pm.

The award-winning author of Because of Winn-Dixie and The National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature launches the extraordinary pilgrimage of Edward, a beautiful, much-loved toy rabbit who loves only himself. When he is ripped from the arms of his doting young owner and lost, Edward finds that his breakable heart can learn to love, lose, and love again. This stunning, highly theatrical play became an immediate must-see hit following its premiere and is sure to go down in history as a family classic with your family being among its first audiences. Trust us, you’ll be sorry if you miss this one.

Recommended for ages 7 and up. Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, 214-740-0051, dct.org.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIBRARY: A VERY MERRY UNBIRTHDAY • •

• •

7-11pm. Imagine: one library anniversary every year means 364 unbirthdays (or 365 if it’s a leap year), which is why we’re gathered here to cheer! Help us celebrate our one year anniversary in the South Irving Library building during an Alice in Wonderland-themed Friday Night Library! We’ll be honoring Lewis Carroll’s literary classic with games such as life-size chess, the Mad Hatter’s tea party, crafts for the curious and a viewing of the animated film. So don’t be late for this very important date! Presented as part of the Lit’s Alive: Classics Revisited program series. South Irving Library Program Room, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. WARRIORS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www. mavs.com.

SAT 19 TRASH TO TREASURE SALE 8am-1pm. A day for flea market and garage sale enthusiasts. Vendor space available; deadline to reserve space is Mar 14. Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St, Irving 972-721-2496 www. cityofirving.org/2061/Senior-Activities.

See ad in this issue.

IRVING PARKS AND RECREATION EGG HUNT 9:30-11:30am. For children 10 and younger, featuring more than 20,000 candy and toy filled eggs, plus bounce

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houses, petting zoo and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. The Easter Egg Stroll for ages 1-2 is ongoing (adults allowed). The egg hunt for ages 3-4 is at 10am; for ages 5-6 is at 10:20am; for ages 7-8 is at 10:40am and for ages 9-10 is at 11am. Irving Soccer Complex, 3585 World Cup Way, Irving.

972-721-2501 irvingevents.org. See ad in this issue.

10TH ANNUAL KIDSFEST 2016 11am-2pm. This year’s theme is “Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies” and will focus on teaching children the benefits of healthy living. The event will be filled with entertainment and high-energy activities for children including a huge egg hunt, face painting, video game trucks, bounce houses and more.

Benefitting Galaxy Counseling Center.

Firewheel Town Center, Garland. See ad in this issue.

KABUKI THEATER FOR KIDS 4pm. Participants will explore the history of the kabuki theater of Japan while learning the basic movement techniques of the samurai (male) and onnagata (female), wearing kimono costumes and learning to gesture with fans. In this interactive experience, all participants have the opportunity to dramatize a short scene from a traditional Japanese folktale. East Branch Library Clinic Lobby, 440 S. Nursery Road, Irving, 972-721-3722.

DALLAS STARS VS. ISLANDERS 7pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

SUN 20 PAWS FOR READING 1:30-3pm. PAWS is a program for children of all ages to read to a therapy dog in a warm and non-judgmental environment. This can help increase child’s reading level and confidence. Participation is on a first come, first serve basis.

South Irving Library Meeting Room #3, 601 Schulze, Irving, 972-721-2606.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. TRAIL BLAZERS 3pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.

MON 21 IRVING WRITERS SALON 7-9pm. Meet fellow local writers interested in sharing their latest work and improving techniques at the Irving

the best

summer

2016

camps

GREENHILL SCHOOL SUMMER ON THE HILL............................................. 26 www.greenhill.org/summer

SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL........... 26 844-KID-SWIM www.safesplash.com

IRVING ARTS CENTER.......................... 29 972-252-2787 www.irvingartscenter.com

THE ARC COLLIN, DALLAS & ROCKWALL.............................................27 www.arcdallas.org

KINWEST MONTESSORI ACADEMY.....................................................17 972-401-8311 www.kinwestmontessori.com

UTD CHESS CAMP.................................. 31 972-883-4899 www.utdallas.edu/chess

MATHNASIUM OF IRVING.................... 15 972-467-8577 www.mathnasium.com/irving See complete 2016 Camp Directory online at suburbanparent.com

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KNOW IT ALL Writers Salon. The group meets the third Monday of the month at the South Irving Library. The Salon is open to all levels of writers, whether you have a working manuscript or are just starting out on your writing journey. Readers are welcome to join in to listen and provide feedback. Writers are encouraged to bring samples of their work to share, but it’s not required. South Irving Library, 601 Schulze, Irving, 972-721-2606.

TUE 22 OPEN HOUSE AT GRAPEVINE FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 7pm. Join us to learn more about our school for Pre-K – 12th Grade. We develop and graduate authentic Christian leaders. Next open house date 4/19.

High School Campus, 729 E Dallas Rd, 817-442-1605 GrapevineFaith.com. See ad in this issue.

UNICORNS IN SPACE! BOOK CLUB DISCUSSES HIGH FANTASY 7-8:30pm. Join us for a lively discussion of high fantasy-the settings, characters and the epic scale of the storytelling.

If you enjoy science fiction or fantasy, from space opera to high fantasy, steampunk to just plain weird, then join us for book talk with Unicorns in Space.

South Irving Library, 601 Schulze Drive, Irving, 972-721-2606.

FRI 25 JOURNEY TO THE CROSS 6-8pm. An Easter Experience for Families presented at Plymouth Park Baptist Church, 1714 N Story Rd, Irving 972-986-7729 plymouthpark.org. See ad in this issue.

SAT 26 MARCH 4 RESPECT 2016 9am-1pm. Pettis & Wellness Healthcare presents a 1 mile Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Awareness Walk with food trucks, info fair and entertainment. To register, call 214-6349810 or email azrile@arcdallas.org. See ad in this issue.

IRVING PARKS AND RECREATION EGG HUNT 9:30-11:30am. For children 10 and younger, featuring more than 20,000 candy and toy filled eggs, plus bounce houses, petting zoo and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. The Easter Egg Stroll for ages 1-2 is ongoing (adults allowed). The egg hunt for

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ages 3-4 is at 10am; for ages 5-6 is at 10:20am; for ages 7-8 is at 10:40am and for ages 9-10 is at 11am. Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St, Irving.

972-721-2501 irvingevents.org. See ad in this issue.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT IRVING NORTH CHRISTIAN CHURCH Join us for age appropriate egg hunts, bounce houses, egg dying, crafts, and games. 2-4pm. Free. 2901 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving, 972-225-8525 Irvingnorthchristian.org. See ad in this issue.

GLOBAL READS BOOK CLUB DISCUSSES INTO THE BEAUTIFUL NORTH 2pm. This month we read Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea.

Join fellow book lovers to explore different cultures through literature.

Reading selections focus on titles by authors from around the world. West Irving Library Meeting Room, 4444 W. Rochelle Road, Irving, 972-721-2691.

LATINO-AMERICAN FILM FIESTA: PUERTO RICAN MUSICAL 2pm. This movie, based on a Broadway musical, retells the story of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, set in the canyons of New York City, with music

by Leonard Bernstein. Funding for Latino-Americans: 500 Years of History is provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the American Library Association (ALA) as part of the initiative The Common Good: Humanities in the Public Square. South Irving Library Meeting Room #3, 601 Schulze Dr., Irving, 972-721-2628.

SUN 27 EASTER SERVICES AT MACARTHUR BLVD BAPTIST CHURCH Join us at 8am, 9:30am or 11am. 8001 Mustang Dr., Irving 972-373-9833 mbbcirving.org. See ad in this issue.

IRVING FOLK ART EXHIBITS: CELEBRATING IRVING Community created folk art will be displayed for public viewing through April 29 at Jaycee Center for the Arts, 1975 Puritan Drive, Irving. The exhibit will also be at the West Irving Library on March 27 & 28, 4444 W. Rochelle Rd. For info on how to submit artwork, contact the Irving Heritage Society at 972-252-3838 or check irvingartsassociation.org. Join us for a reception honoring the artists of the exhibit on April 4 at 7pm. See ad in this issue.

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Our Pediatricians Care About You and Your Family Now Serving the Irving Community in Two Locations!

KNOW IT ALL TUE 29 DALLAS STARS VS. PREDATORS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

2015

WED 30 20TH ANNUAL CHOCOLATE AND CHIC LUNCHEON AND AUCTIONS!

2 Main Locations

6750 N. MacArthur Blvd. • Ste. 206 2021 N. MacArthur Blvd. • Ste. 250

Irving, Texas Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm We Accept All Major Insurance Plans

972-253-4300

www.mscitx.com

10:30am-1pm. Get Involved! Tickets $70. Sponsorships available too! As the second-largest domestic violence and sexual assault agency in Dallas County, Brighter Tomorrows’ mission is to empower victims of domestic violence and sexual assault by providing emergency safe shelter and support services The chic array of live and silent auction items, chocolates to tantalize you, a delicious luncheon and the opportunity to hear from Ms. Moore will raise awareness while highlighting your organization.

Live and Silent Auction Donations: We are currently seeking merchandise/gift certificate donations to be used in our live and silent auctions – an integral part of the event and sure to give quality exposure to your business. All donations will be displayed with advertising material provided by the donating company or organization. We request all items and donor information sheets be received by Friday, March 18, 2016. Lone Star Park, 1000 Lone Star Pkwy, Grand Prairie, Destiny Clemons Volunteer & Special Events Coordinator Brighter Tomorrows, Inc. Office: 972-254-4003 ext. 103, www. brightertomorrows.net.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. KNICKS

more for N. Texas Families. Enjoy bounce houses, indoor trampoline park, face painting, massage stations, petting zoo and more. Admission $5. All ticket proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities. Dallas Market Hall, 2200 N. Stemmons Fwy at Wycliff. 214-605-0006, dfwFamilyExpo.org. See ad in this issue.

“WILL MOSES: AMERICAN FOLK ARTIST” ART EXHIBIT On display through June 26 in Dupree Lobby of the Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur, Irving. See ad in this issue.

FAMILY MOVIE “THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW” 2pm Come view the Disney classic based on one of Washington Irving’s famous stories. Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail, Irving. Another showing is scheduled for April 16 also at 2pm.

See ad in this issue.

APR 3 A CONVERSATION WITH WILL MOSES 4pm. Artist/author/illustrator Will Moses shares the background and artistry of his folk art painting and his books for children. Reception follows. Irving Arts Center Dupree Theater, 3333 N MacArthur, Irving. See ad in this issue.

APR 4 WILL MOSES MEETS IRVING 4-5:30pm. Artist/author/illustrator Will Moses will talk informally with the audience about his art at West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Rd, Irving.

See ad in this issue.

7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.

APR 18

THU 31

6:30-8:30pm. An evening to celebrate the human voice and the beautiful music choirs make. Join the Heritage Singers, The Irving Silvertones, The Jubilee Singers and other choirs from the area. Free. Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St, Irving 972-721-2496, www.cityofirving.org/2061/Senior-Activities. See ad in this issue.

DALLAS STARS VS. COYOTES 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.

SAVE THE DATE… APR 2 THE 7TH ANNUAL DFW FAMILY EXPO 10am-5pm. Discover the best camps, classes, products, entertainment and

HERITAGE CHOIR FESTIVAL

THE FAMILY LEGACY OF ART 7pm. North Lake College Professor Brett Dyer will present the program and free tours of the Norman Rockwell Gallery will be offered prior to the program. National Scouting Museum, 1329 W Walnut Hill Lane, Irving. 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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Texas Karate Do

2700 N. O’Connor Rd Ste 132

972-258-8333

www.TexasKarateDo.com

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MARCH 2016 irving parent

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10 ways to

Motivate Your Child One of my favorite movie franchises is the Rocky series. The scene that I like more than any other is in Rocky II. Rocky has an important rematch coming up against Apollo Creed and hasn’t trained well for it because his wife is unsupportive. His trainer Mickey tries one thing after another to get him to train hard but gets more and more frustrated with Rocky’s lack of focus. When his wife, Adrian, goes into a coma following complications during the birth of their child Rocky’s training stops completely. The pivotal moment comes when she wakes up. She tells him, “There’s one thing I want you to do for me. Win.” She repeats herself, “Win.” Her support and encouragement were all he needed to motivate him. As a parent, you are your child’s biggest fan and cheerleader. They look up to you and they look to you for direction. It is your duty to motivate your kid in life and help them when they need it. Whether it is school, sports, or hobbies, motivate them to be the best that they can be. Here are 10 ways to motivate your child.

SET GOALS. Have them make a list of short-term goals and

DISCOVER PASSION. Encourage your children to dis-

1 one long-term goal. Make sure the goals are reachable but

6 cover what they are passionate about. It may take a few tries

require effort to obtain.

along the way. Support them on their journey towards passion and urge them to keep going until they find out what it is.

CELEBRATE ACCOMPLISHMENTS. When your child

2 accomplishes their goals, let them know that you are proud of them. Celebrate these things together. In some cases, reward your child for their hard work.

REMAIN POSITIVE. Maintain a positive and optimistic

7 outlook for your children. If they see fear or doubt in your eyes then they will likely lose self-confidence. Having a positive approach will lighten their entire outlook to a situation.

MAKE THINGS COMPETITIVE. Encourage healthy

3 competition. Cheer on your child to beat another runner in a race or to take home the trophy from the Spelling Bee. Make competition about positivity and strength in regards to your child and never about negativity and weakness towards the competitor.

ENCOURAGE THEM. Let your child know that you

PEER PRESSURE. Occasionally, a little peer pressure is

8 not a bad thing. It can push your kids to do better in school or in a sport because they want to keep up with their friends.

However, watch for when the stress of peer pressure starts to become too much.

MAKE A PLAN. In order to reach goals, you need a plan.

4 believe in them. Tell them how great they are going to do.

9 Help your children create a strategy for reaching their goals.

Dismiss any self-doubt or fears they may have.

Make a step-by-step plan to reach them.

TAKE INTEREST. Learn about your child’s interests.

EXCITE THEM. Excite your children about their goals

5 Talk to your child about them and listen. It will show your 10 and ambitions. Show that you are excited for them too. children that you care and that they free to talk to you about their interests.

The positive energy and adrenaline will push them to continue their hard work and be happy with their efforts.

— 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.

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6 UPLOAD YOUR BIRTHDAY KIDS PICTURE @ suburbanparent.com Please submit by the 10th of the month PRIOR to the month of their birthday to be included in our print edition. No copyrighted photos.

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MARCH 2016 irving parent

35

FUN STUFF { LIFE IS BETTER WHEN YOU’RE LAUGHING }

WHY DID VAN GOGH BECOME A PAINTER?

WHAT DID MICHELANGELO SAY TO THE CEILING?

HOW DOES SALVADOR DALI START HIS MORNINGS?

I GOT YOU COVERED.

WITH A BOWL OF “SURREAL”.

Source: www.jokes4us.com/peoplejokes/painterjokes.html

BECAUSE HE DIDN’T HAVE AN EAR FOR MUSIC.

Let’s celebrate with a craft!

YOU NEED

“AT THE AGE OF SIX I WANTED TO BE A COOK. AT SEVEN I WANTED TO BE NAPOLEON. AND MY AMBITION HAS BEEN GROWING STEADILY EVER SINCE.” ― SALVADOR DALÍ

- Paper Plate - Black Paint - Sharpie - Red Marker - 2 Pieces of Stock Paper - Wiggly Eyes - 3 Black Pipe Cleaners - Craft Glue - Hot Glue Gun

LET’S GET STARTED...

1

Flip a paper plate over and paint the edging of the paper plate with black craft paint. We sponged the edges around the white so that it would look like fur, you know since he is a cat and all.

Use a sharpie and draw a hat onto a piece of stock paper.

Then draw the stripes and fill the red in with a marker, sharpie or paint.

Whatever you have on hand will be fine. We used a red sharpie.

Use craft glue and attach the hat and wiggly eyes (these are optional too, you can draw them

2 3

on). Go ahead and draw on his nose and mouth.

At this point we attached the whiskers. We used hot glue to do this because I find that pipe cleaners don’t hold well with craft glue.

Now you can use the left over stock paper and make some ears and attach them with craft glue.

The last step is optional. You can use more stock paper and draw a tie or just leave it off all together. We always like to add that extra touch so we chose to give him a tie.

4

5 6

Excerpt from http://thisgirlslifeblog.com/2015/02/cat-in-the-hat-paper-plate-craft.html

LOL WITH JAMES ESTES!

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM

Can you

hear me

?

My girlfriend and I had something important to discuss at my house one day. So I called up to the second floor (in the same low tone I would be speaking with) where my 4 year old was sleeping, and asked,”Can you hear me?” In about 3 seconds I heard her say “no, I promise!”

So I replied, “Okay, thank you”, and she replied, “Carry on.” Needless to say, we held our mouths and laughed as quietly as we could!

— EMMA, MOM OF 2

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

36

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37

BACKTALK { BY KEN SWARNER }

NUMBERS IMPAIRED

N

o one in my family comes to me when they have a math problem to solve. They’ll ask their friends, neighbors,

grandfathers, even a gerbil before they’ll seek my advice. Heck, I think my son asked the cat to explain Phi the other night.

I’m that bad with numbers. When my children need help on their math homework and I am the

excuse I could think of to save face. My excuses:

only adult standing in the room, they’ll say things like:

1. “Ow! I think a bug flew in my eye!”

“Where’s mom?” and “I suppose I’ll just take a zero on

2. “This isn’t the math we did WHEN I was a

this assignment.”

I’ve never been good with math concepts. Admittingly, that may

3. “Who wants ice cream?”

have something to do with the fact that I didn’t pay attention in math

After awhile, of course, my children figured it out.

class as a kid. That, and my parents still refuse to admit they dropped

“Dad,” my son said softly one day as I stared blankly at 3X(5Y)=2X.

me on my head when I was young.

I won’t go so far to say that I choose journalism because I am math impaired – namely because statistics (math) was a requirement for my journaism degree…and yeah, I failed it. Thank goodness I did all right everywhere else.

The funny part is that my parents could have sucked at math and I

“If there was a short bus running between the downstairs and upstairs – you’d be on it.”

Creep.

It’s hard to admit, but I’m no longer the superman in my children’s lives. Where I could once handle every question and situation that came their way, I am now lucky to get it right half of the time. As my teenagers

would have never known it because the relationship back then between

and I get older, I’ve noticed that more and more they can do certain

parents and schoolwork was nearly nonexistent. Not so anymore. These

things better than I can. And that’s a little tough to get used to.

days, parents are on the front lines when it comes to school homework.

I think it’s been a little disappointing for them as well. That transition

We are expected to sign assignment planners, keep track of our time

from child to young adult is full of many mysteries including “how did my

reading with our kids, and be that go-to source for homework help.

dad, who knew everything, suddenly get so stupid?”

Math has been no exception.

I guess that’s just life. I am confident enough to know its okay I’m not

Don’t get me wrong, I was fine up to the point my children passed

as good as they are at everything…and, hopefully, the feeling is mutual

the fifth grade. I can do division, multiplication, and “manipulate” those

with my kids. I am, however, a little tired of having to constantly fish out

colored blocks (whatever that was about). But, starting in sixth grade, the

my college diploma to prove to them that I actually graduated.

kids entered the beginning of algebra and I was soon lost. I made up every

38

kid. Is this new math?”

irving parent

<sigh> SP

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2015