AUG26 HFM

AUGUST 2026

VOLUME 38 ISSUE 8

Manage M a n a g e Back B a c k to to School S chool A Anxiety nxiety Resetting R e s e t t i n g Kids Kids Sleep S leep S Schedules chedules One O n e Last L a s t Hurrah Hurrah Before B e f o r e Summer S u m m e r Ends Ends Mean M e a n Girls Girls Primer P r i m e r for f o r Moms Moms Healthy H e a l t h y Breakfast Breakfast iin n 1 15 5 M Minutes inutes + E d u c a t i o n Guide +Education Guide

TABLE OF TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENTS

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Houston Family Magazine HoustonFamilyMagazine.com

PUBLISHER/EDITOR KIMBERLY DAVIS GUERRA CREATIVE DIRECTOR CASEY JOHNSON ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE BEVERLY DAVIS LATESA GRUNDMANN PHOTOGRAPHER AMY GARRETT CONTRIBUTING WRITERS KATY O’BRIEN KIMBERLY GUERRA TANNI HAAS PH.D CHRISTINA KATZ JILL MORGENSTERN VALERIE KOHLER

Houston Family Magazine 14781 Memorial Dr. #208, Houston TX 77079 Ph: 713.266.1885 hello@houstonfamilymagazine.com Houston Family Magazine is published monthly by Houston Family Magazine, LLC. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all submitted material. Houston Family is 2020 by Houston Family Magazine,LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without express permission is prohibited.

Breakfast in 15‌ in 15 ‌M Miinutes Minutes nutes Breakfast Breakfast‌

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By Kimberly Guerra

By Bodhi Guerra

The alarm rings, backpacks are packed, lunches need to be made, and someone inevitably can't find a shoe. Sound familiar?

During the school year, mornings can feel like a race against the clock, making breakfast one of the first things families are tempted to skip.

But breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day. Children who eat a balanced breakfast often have better concentration, more stable energy levels, and improved academic performance. The good news? You don't need an hour in the kitchen to make it happen.

These quick breakfast ideas take 15 minutes or less and provide the protein, whole grains, healthy fats, and fruits kids need to power through the school day.

Five-Minute Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bowl

Overnight Oats Everyone Will Love

This colorful breakfast feels like a treat while providing plenty of protein.

Prepare before bedtime and breakfast is ready when everyone wakes up.

Ingredients Plain or vanilla Greek yogurt Fresh berries Banana slices Granola Chia seeds Honey (optional)

Mix together: Old-fashioned oats Milk Greek yogurt Chia seeds Maple syrup Fruit

Layer everything into a bowl and serve.

Time: 5 minutes Parent Tip: Set out toppings the night before so children can build their own breakfast.

Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Wrap

Refrigerate overnight.

Try flavors like: Strawberry Cheesecake Apple Cinnamon Peach Vanilla Chocolate Banana

Perfect for mornings when everyone is headed out the door.

Smoothies for Families on the Go Smoothies make it easy to sneak in extra fruits and vegetables.

Ingredients Whole wheat tortilla Peanut or sunflower seed butter Banana Sprinkle of cinnamon Spread, roll, slice in half, and enjoy.

Add a glass of milk for extra protein.

Time: 3 minutes

Blend together: Frozen berries Banana Greek yogurt Spinach Milk Ice Pour into travel cups and head out the door.

No one has to know there's spinach inside.

Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches Spend 30 minutes on Sunday making a week's worth of breakfasts.

Mini Egg Muffins

Use: English muffins Eggs Turkey sausage or Canadian bacon Cheddar cheese

Combine: Eggs Diced bell peppers Spinach Cheese Turkey sausage (optional) Bake in muffin tins and refrigerate.

Simply reheat for 30 seconds before leaving for school.

Wrap individually and freeze.

Each morning, microwave for about 90 seconds.

Time on School Morning: Under 2 minutes.

Bake a batch over the weekend.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 7

Quick Grocery Staples to Keep on Hand Keeping a few essentials stocked makes healthy breakfasts almost effortless.

Protein Greek yogurt Eggs Cottage cheese Nut butters Whole Grains Oatmeal Whole wheat bread English muffins Whole grain tortillas Fresh Favorites Bananas Apples Berries Grapes Convenience Helpers Frozen fruit Frozen waffles made with whole grains Granola Low-sugar cereal Many Houston-area grocery stores—including H-E-B, Kroger, Whole Foods Market, and Sprouts Farmers Market—offer ready-to-use fresh fruit, pre-cut vegetables, and grab-and-go healthy breakfast options that can save valuable time on busy mornings.

Make Mornings Easier One of the biggest time-savers isn't cooking faster—it's preparing ahead.

Try these simple habits: Set the breakfast table before bed.

Wash and portion fruit on Sunday.

Prepare smoothie packs in freezer bags.

Hard-boil eggs for the week.

Pack lunches the night before so breakfast gets your full attention.

A little planning can turn hectic mornings into calmer ones!

The Takeaway Back-to-school mornings don't have to mean sugary pastries or skipping breakfast altogether. With a little preparation and a handful of quick recipes, families can enjoy nutritious meals that help children feel energized, focused, and ready to learn.

As the new school year begins, challenge your family to try one new breakfast each week. You may discover a favorite that becomes part of your morning routine long after the first school bell rings.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026

9

BEFORE THE SCHOOL BELL RINGS

By Katy O’Brien

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For many Houston families, summer is a season of flexibility. Bedtimes stretch later thanks to vacations, neighborhood barbecues, Astros games, movie nights, and simply enjoying those long summer evenings.

While those relaxed routines are part of what makes summer memorable, they can make the return to school especially challenging.

If your children are still going to bed near 10:30 or 11:00 p.m., waiting until the night before school starts to reset their schedule is a recipe for groggy mornings and frustrated parents.

The good news? With a little planning, families can ease back into a healthy sleep routine before the first school bell rings. Better sleep doesn't just make mornings easier—it helps children learn, concentrate, regulate emotions, and stay healthy throughout the school year.

Why Sleep Matters More Than You Think

Power Down the Screens

Sleep plays a critical role in a child's physical growth, brain development, memory, and emotional well-being.

Children who consistently get enough quality sleep are more likely to pay attention in class, solve problems more effectively, and handle the everyday challenges of school with greater confidence.

One of the biggest obstacles to quality sleep is screen time.

Phones, tablets, televisions, and gaming devices emit blue light that suppresses melatonin, the hormone that helps us feel sleepy.

Exciting videos and games can also make it harder for children to settle down.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, insufficient sleep has also been linked to increased anxiety, behavioral challenges, difficulty concentrating, and lower academic performance.

Aim to turn off electronics at least one hour before bedtime.

Instead, encourage relaxing alternatives like reading, drawing, listening to calming music, or working on a puzzle together.

Every child is different, but these general recommendations can serve as a helpful guide:

Parents can set a positive example by putting away their own devices during the family's evening wind-down.

Recommended Hours of Sleep Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours Elementary age (6–12 years): 9–12 hours Teenagers (13–18 years): 8–10 hours

Build Better Days for Better Nights

If your child isn't getting close to those numbers, now is the perfect time to begin making adjustments.

Start Early—Not the Night Before The easiest way to reset a sleep schedule is gradually. Rather than moving bedtime an hour earlier overnight, shift both bedtime and wake-up time by about 15 to 20 minutes every two or three days. Within a week or two, your child's body clock will naturally adjust without the nightly battles.

If school begins in two weeks, start today. Your mornings will thank you.

Create a Predictable Evening Routine Children thrive on consistency. A calming bedtime routine signals to the brain that it's time to wind down. It doesn't have to be elaborate—just predictable.

Try following the same sequence every evening: Bath or shower Put on pajamas Brush teeth Pack backpack for tomorrow Read together for 15–20 minutes Lights out at the same time each night Keeping the routine consistent—even on weekends—helps reinforce healthy sleep habits.

Good sleep actually begins long before bedtime.

Throughout the day, encourage children to: Get outside for natural sunlight.

Stay physically active.

Limit caffeine, especially in older children and teens.

Avoid heavy meals right before bed.

Drink plenty of water during the day.

Even during Houston's hottest August afternoons, a visit to the neighborhood pool, a walk through a shaded park, or indoor play at a local community center can help kids burn off energy that leads to better sleep later.

Make the Bedroom a Sleep-Friendly Space The ideal bedroom should encourage rest, not distraction.

Simple changes can make a noticeable difference: Keep the room cool and comfortable.

Use blackout curtains to block early morning sunlight.

Consider a white noise machine or fan.

Remove unnecessary electronics.

Keep homework and gaming in another room when possible.

A calm environment helps children associate their bedroom with sleep rather than stimulation.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 11

What About Teens?

The Bottom Line

Teenagers often face the biggest sleep challenges.

A successful school year begins long before the first homework assignment.

By gradually adjusting bedtime, creating calming evening routines, and prioritizing quality sleep, parents can help children arrive at school rested, focused, and ready to learn.

Their natural body clocks shift later during adolescence, making it difficult to fall asleep early—even when school requires early mornings.

Parents can help by encouraging gradual schedule changes before school starts, limiting late-night social media, and keeping weekend sleep schedules within an hour of weekday routines whenever possible.

Summer memories don't have to end overnight —but a little planning now can make the transition smoother for everyone in the family. As backpacks are packed and school supplies are checked off the list, don't forget one of the most important back-to-school essentials: a good night's sleep.

While teens may not love the earlier bedtime, they'll likely appreciate feeling more alert during the first weeks of school.

Parent Takeaway

When to Seek Additional Help Occasional trouble falling asleep is normal, especially during times of transition.

However, if your child regularly snores loudly, struggles to stay awake during the day, has frequent nightmares, or experiences persistent sleep difficulties despite healthy routines, it's worth discussing the issue with your pediatrician.

Addressing sleep concerns early can make a meaningful difference in your child's health, mood, and success in school.

The "20-Minute Rule" If school starts in one week, begin moving bedtime earlier by 20 minutes each night until your child reaches their school-year schedule.

Small changes are easier for children—and parents—to maintain than dramatic overnight adjustments.

k o o B s e t i B

Brought to you

by Valerie Kohler, Blue Willow Bookshop bluewillowbookshop.com

The Night Before 1st Grade by Natasha Wing (Grosset & Dunlap)

The Big Fat Math Book (Workman Publishing)

Penny and her best friend are excited to begin first grade in their matching outfits. When they are assigned to separate classrooms, they learn to make new friends.

This hands-on Big Fat Math Workbook equals being tutored by the best teacher in the school, through a recap of every key concept using definitions, examples, and special services.

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow Books)

In This Classroom by Andrew Hacket (Red Comet Press)

Chrysanthemum thinks her name is perfect--until her first day of school. "You're named after a flower!" teases Victoria. "Let's smell her," says Jo. Chrysanthemum wilts.

What will it take to make her blossom again?

This is a heartwarming celebration of the school year, capturing the joy, struggles, and growth of students and teachers as they embark on an unforgettable journey of learning, friendship, and personal achievement.

Kindergarten Gets Ready by Naomi Danis (Little Brown Books For Young Readers)

Who Knows The Way To Mr. Grimly’s Classroom

by Chris Priestley (Candlewick Press)

Join kindergarten teacher Mr. Bee as he gets ready for the new school year, transforming a cluttered classroom into an inviting, orderly space where everything has its place.

When Miss Flytrap asks if anyone knows the way to Mr. Grimly's classroom, Grace's hand flies up, and she sets off on a long, strange journey through a very odd place, full of twists, turns, and creepy characters who give puzzling directions.

What Do We Do In Preschool by Kathryn Wanless (Red Comet Press) The time to start preschool is a huge transition for young learners--emotionally, socially, and psychologically. This rhyming book showcases all the ways that children play, create, and explore in a fun environment.

Dinos On The Bus by Peter Millet (Ladybird Books) The Wheels on the Bus transforms into squeals on the bus as the little dinos travel up and down, round and round, all through the land. Packed full of action, easy to join.

Roxie In Color by Diane Dubrovner (Candlewick Press) Roxie’s parents are blind. When she starts seventh grade at a new school, she wants to be known for other things about herself, so she tries to keep her parents' blindness a secret from the kids at school.

The Ocean Would Paint Me Blue by Zoulfa Katouh (Little Brown Books For Young Readers) Seventeen-year-old Jihad Dabbagh has the gift of seeing things with a heightened sense for colors. After her mother’s death, the world becomes a permanent shade of grey, but her family doesn’t take her color loss seriously.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026

13

>< Helping

Helping Kids Manage Anxiety with Confidence

Kids Manage Anxiety with Confidence

By Katy O’Brian

A new backpack. Fresh school supplies. Brand-new shoes. For many children, these are exciting signs that a new school year is about to begin. But for others, the anticipation of returning to school can bring something else— worry.

Questions like "Will I make friends?"

"What if my teacher is strict?" or "What if I get lost?" are common as children prepare for a new school year. Even students who have always loved school can feel anxious when routines change or new challenges arise.

The good news is that a little nervousness is perfectly normal. In fact, those "first-day butterflies" are often a sign that children understand they're about to experience something important. With patience, preparation, and reassurance, parents can help transform anxiety into confidence.

Why Children Feel Anxious About Going Back to School

Build Confidence One Success at a Time Confidence grows through experience.

Every child experiences change differently.

Some children worry about academic expectations, while others are concerned about making friends or navigating a new campus. Older students may feel pressure to succeed in more difficult classes or balance extracurricular activities with homework.

Common concerns include: Meeting a new teacher Entering a new school Making new friends Separation from parents Fear of getting lost Academic pressure Social situations Changes in routine Understanding the source of your child's anxiety is the first step toward helping them overcome it.

Listen Before You Solve Parents naturally want to fix problems.

However, when children share their worries, they often need someone to listen first.

Instead of immediately saying, "You'll be fine," try asking open-ended questions such as: "Tell me what's worrying you most."

"What do you think might happen?"

"Has something like this happened before?"

"What would help you feel more prepared?"

Remind children of challenges they've already overcome.

You might say: "Remember when you were nervous about swim lessons?"

"You were worried about soccer practice, and now you love it."

"Think about how brave you were on your first day last year."

Looking back at previous successes helps children believe they can handle new situations too.

Don't Dismiss Their Feelings Well-meaning phrases like "Don't worry" or "There's nothing to be scared of" can unintentionally make children feel that their emotions aren't valid.

Instead, acknowledge what they're experiencing.

Try saying: "It makes sense that you're nervous."

"Lots of kids feel this way before school starts."

"It's okay to have mixed feelings."

"I'm here to help you."

Validation doesn't increase anxiety—it helps children feel understood.

Keep Goodbyes Short and Positive

To listen to me is to know me.

Sometimes simply talking through a fear makes it seem much smaller.

Practice the School Routine Uncertainty often fuels anxiety.

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to make the unfamiliar feel familiar.

A few days before school starts: Drive or walk the route to school.

Visit the playground if it's open.

Locate classrooms if possible.

Practice morning routines.

Time how long it takes to get ready.

Even younger children benefit from knowing exactly what to expect on the first day.

Focus on What They Can Control Children cannot choose their teacher or classmates, but they can control many other things.

Help them focus on manageable choices: Picking out tomorrow's outfit Packing their backpack Choosing a healthy lunch Organizing school supplies Setting personal goals Feeling prepared often leads to feeling confident.

The first day of school can be emotional for parents too.

If your child struggles with separation, avoid long, dramatic goodbyes.

Instead: Give a hug.

Smile.

Offer a reassuring phrase.

Leave confidently.

Children often take emotional cues from their parents. Calm confidence is contagious.

Help Kids Make Connections Friendships are one of the biggest concerns children have before school begins.

If possible: Attend school orientation events.

Visit neighborhood parks.

Arrange playdates with classmates.

Participate in community activities before school starts.

Seeing a familiar face on the first day can make a tremendous difference.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 15

Teach Simple Calming Strategies

A Fresh Start for Everyone

Children don't need complicated techniques to manage anxiety.

Every school year is a new beginning—not just for students, but for parents as well.

Practice these simple tools together: Balloon Breathing

Rather than striving for a perfect first day, focus on helping your child feel loved, supported, and capable.

Pretend to slowly inflate a balloon by breathing in through the nose for four counts and out through the mouth for four counts.

The goal isn't to eliminate every worry.

Five Things Exercise

It's to teach children that they can face uncertainty with courage.

Ask children to notice: Five things they can see Four things they can touch Three things they can hear Two things they can smell One thing they can taste This mindfulness exercise helps bring attention back to the present moment.

Positive Self-Talk Help children replace negative thoughts with encouraging ones.

Instead of:

Years from now, they probably won't remember what they wore on the first day of school or whether they found their classroom immediately.

But they will remember how you made them feel: confident, safe, and ready to take on a brand-new adventure.

Parent Takeaway Turn Worry into Confidence When your child expresses a fear:

✔ Listen without interrupting. ✔ Validate their feelings.

When Anxiety May Need Extra Support ✔ Help them identify one small solution.

While first-day jitters are common, ongoing anxiety that interferes with sleep, appetite, daily activities, or school attendance may ✔ Remind them of past successes. require additional support. ✔ End the conversation with encouragement—not Parents should consider talking with their pediatrician or school "I can't do this."

Try: "I might be nervous, but I can handle new things."

To listen to me is to know me.

counselor if their child:

Frequently complains of stomachaches without illness Has persistent nightmares Refuses to attend school Experiences panic-like symptoms Appears withdrawn for several weeks Early intervention can make a significant difference.

perfection.

Confidence grows one small victory at a time.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 17

BRING HISTORY TO LIFE! FIELD TRIP IDEAS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS

pictured: 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA

Galveston is a rich environment to teach homeschool kids about Texas history firsthand.

With a visit to Galveston, the classroom moves out of your house house and brings history to life in the places that it happened. And you don’t even need to officially homeschool your children to make the most of the historical locations that you will find in Galveston. This curriculum also works to enhance a vacation or field trip to Galveston, making making it more educational.

Historical Places Galveston Galveston has one of the oldest and richest histories of anywhere in the United States.

Some of the nicknames it is has been known for include, “The Wall Street of the South,” the “Ellis Island of the South” and even the “Republic of Galveston” for its many different eras.

From the Native Americans who made Galveston their home when the Europeans landed in North America in 1528, to when the French claimed it in the 1600s and named it St. Louis, to when it was charted as Galveston Bay on July 23, 1786, by Jose de Evia for Spanish colonial governor and general Bernardo de Gálvez, Galveston has a rich heritage.

BEFORE YOUR VISIT Browse the locations that might appeal to your family: Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum Pier 21 Theater Texas Seaport Museum & ELISSA The Bryan Museum The Grand 1894 Opera House Rosenberg Library Download the full Galveston History Curriculum to get the big picture.

Choose the activities you are going to do while on the island and build your itinerary.

DURING YOUR VISIT Visit the places you choose and complete the worksheets and discussions, where available.

Take photos and video to document your visit that can be used for projects after your visit.

AFTER YOUR VISIT Reflect on what you have learned using the Mind Mapping Exercise.

Exercise.

Create an article.

Immigration Experiences The Port of Galveston is the second biggest immigrant ports of the 19th and 20th centuries. An estimated 300,000 immigrants entered the U.S. through the Port of Galveston between 1846-1948.

The U.S. government chose Galveston over New Orleans as the ‘new’ Federal Immigration Station in 1906. However, it was never fully realized. A scaled down version was operational by 1913, but it was damaged by hurricane winds in 1915.

Unrestricted entry ended in 1875. Immigrants entered Galveston through Pier 29.

BEFORE YOUR VISIT Conduct some online research about the immigration that occurred through the Port of Galveston: Read about the Galveston immigration database located at the Texas Seaport Museum.

Read about the Forgotten Gateway: Coming to America Through Galveston Island exhibition that came to the Houston Museum of Natural Science in 2011.

Read about the Galveston Movement, Movement, a program to divert Jews fleeing Russia and Eastern Europe from 1907-1914.

Read this story in the Houston Chronicle about the immigrants who arrived in the Port of Galveston.

Galveston.

Check out pages 6-23 of the comprehensive learning unit, “Forgotten “Forgotten Gateway: Coming to America Through Galveston Island,” Island,” from The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.

DURING YOUR VISIT Visit the Texas Seaport Museum at Pier 21 and see the exhibition about the immigrants who entered through the port.

Use the database located in the museum to look up people people who may have come through the port. Ask the museum staff for a demonstration of the database. Use some of the names from the story in the Houston Chronicle.

Visit the Pier 21 Theater and watch Galveston Gateway on the Gulf movie.

Visit Seawolf Park on Pelican Island, which served as a former immigration station. There is no formal exhibit, but you can stand where people arrived. The park is also home to tourist attractions, including the WWII submarine the USS Cavalla and one of only three destroyer escorts in the world, the USS Stewart. The remains of the WWI tanker S.S. Selma, the largest concrete ship constructed, can be seen northwest of the park’s fishing pier.

AFTER YOUR VISIT Write a story about what it might have been like to be an immigrant through the Port of Galveston or write an article as if you were a reporter from that time covering immigration.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 19

Mean Girls Dismantle The Mean Girl Time Bomb Before Middle School: A Primer For Moms

By Christina Katz

The best way to make a positive impact on the girl vs. girl trend sweeping the nation is to address and redirect mean girl behavior in our daughters. Like many mothers of daughters I polled, I started noticing mean girl behavior early in my daughter's public school experience.

Ironically, the behavior wasn't coming from acquaintances, but from girls my daughter considered friends.

This brings up an uncomfortable reality: there is not much we can do about mean girl behavior in other people's kids. We can report it to their parents or to school or organization authorities, but there is little more we can do to ameliorate mean girl situations once they are happening. So what's a pro-active mom to do?

Take Heart

who simply makes a mistake. Make sure your child understands that it's okay to make mistakes, and that you expect her to be kind regardless of circumstances. Keep talking about what these three behaviors mean on an ongoing basis, until your daughter can tell the difference. Once she knows she always has a choice about how to respond in any situation, you are making good progress.

Encourage Self-acceptance Over Popularity. Left to their own devices, kids will always decide that being popular is better than not being popular. In middle school, popularity is perceived as power and kids are instinctively hungry for it.

Make sure you don't secretly hope your child will be one of the popular kids. If you put this trip on your child, you are encouraging her to put perceptions over feelings, which can lead to imposter syndrome. If you want your child to be authentic and emotionally intelligent, this means accepting and liking her as she is so she can accept and like herself. If you want your daughter to have genuine self-esteem, conversations on self-acceptance need to start young, long before middle school. Then let the popularity chips fall where they may.

After all, popularity does not necessarily equal happiness.

There is much you can do to prevent mean girl behavior in your own daughter. One more girl setting an example of how to be kind and emotionally intelligent, despite peer pressure moving in the opposite direction, can help turn the tide. If mothers can encourage their daughters to stay open, vulnerable, and in touch with feelings no matter what, we might be able to dismantle the mean girl time bomb that ticks silently away inside every girl, just waiting to go off when that girl is pushed too far.

Only when girls understand that bullying is never acceptable can a better example spread. If your daughter can embody healthier choices, she can help create harmony within her middle school girl tribe. Here are six crucial ways moms can prepare daughters to navigate the social pressures of middle school.

Define Meanness. Rudeness, meanness, and bullying exist on a behavior spectrum. Meanness is intentionally hurtful, as opposed to rudeness, which is unintentionally hurtful, as opposed to bullying which is consistently hurtful. One of the problems with mean girl behavior is that it can be subtle, insidious, and elusive.

Teach your daughter the difference between the three types of behaviors and how to tell the difference between someone who is consistently, purposefully mean and someone

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 21

Keep Your Negativity In Check.

When confronted with a challenging situation, your daughter will intuitively imitate the way you behave.

If you project negativity onto others, she is going to learn to do the same. If you are insecure, she will be insecure. If you are superior and competitive with others, she will follow suit. If you judge and condemn...I am sure you get the picture. You can't hold your daughter accountable for her attitudes and actions, if you are not accountable for yours. Be sure you set a good example, mom, or you just might see your least appealing qualities reflected back to you in your daughter's behavior.

Reinforce & Challenge Your Daughter's Strengths.

Teach How To Detach From Drama.

No matter how secure and emotionally intelligent your child, hormones will be ebbing and flowing in middle school. Rather than letting this become an excuse for poor behavior, teach your daughter to step back from situations when erratic emotions are involved. Girl vendettas are common in middle school and can ignite for the slightest reasons. Your daughter may empathize with one or both girls and get inadvertently sucked into a feud if she does not know how to avoid one.

Teach your daughter to listen to the facts and form her own opinion without getting involved in any drama. Encourage her to not take sides when one girl turns against another, but to be the voice of reason whenever possible. Affirm that girls need to stick together and prop each other up when they are having a bad day without getting overly involved in solving each other's problems.

Once your daughter understands that drama is a distraction from personal priorities, she can more easily steer clear.

Model Healthy Communication.

Girls often start to lose their authentic voices when they become teenagers. So your job as your daughter's confidante is to keep the doors of communication open and let her be honest and real with you as she is trying to figure everything out. If your formerly sunshiny girl suddenly turns partly cloudy, don't fret. She may push you away and not want to talk as much as she used to, but don't give in to the common misperception that teenagers need to be left alone. Your middleschooler can't navigate this brave new social world solo. If you expect her to, she is going to feel stressed and look for friends who can help her take the edge off. You have to be there, mom, every day, listening and responsive, whenever either of you wants to talk.

If you want your daughter to be a leader, not a follower, she needs to know and use her strengths. If you and the rest of your family don't reflect her strengths back to her, it's going to take your daughter longer to activate her personal power. If you only reflect back her weaknesses, she is going to believe she is a walking, talking pile of not good enough, which makes her an easy target for mean girls.

Girls with high self-esteem don't usually become targets and self-motivated girls don't focus on the behavior of others. If they have a negative encounter with another girl, they shrug it off and bounce back quickly. So make sure your daughter is armed with something besides superiority and a sharp tongue. Be certain she knows what she is good at and encourage her to put her strengths to good use in your community for the benefit of all.

If your daughter is busy exercising her skills, challenging herself to reach new goals, and striving to make a positive impact in the world, she will gain the healthy self-esteem and confidence that result from positive personal experiences. Happy, engaged kids are less likely to bully others.

Once your daughter understands the dynamics of mean girl behavior, she can steer clear of drama when it crops up and will keep you in the loop as to how she handled it. These are the kinds of conversations every mom hopes to have with her daughter in middle school. If you are not having them, then maybe your daughter needs the mean girl primer only you can give her.

Take the time to educate yourself about how to avoid mean girl behavior before middle school starts, mom. Then share what you learn with your daughter. You will both be so glad you did.

Mean Girl Behavior Books For Moms Queen Bees and Wannabes: Helping Your Daughter Survive Cliques, Gossip, Boyfriends, and the New Realities of Girl World

by Rosalind Wiseman

Little Girls Can Be Mean: Four Steps to Bully-proof Girls in the Early Grades

by Michelle Anthony and Reyna Lindert

Odd Girl Out, Revised and Updated: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls

by Rachel Simmons

Mean Girl Behavior Books For Elementary School Girls Stand Up for Yourself and Your Friends: Dealing with Bullies and Bossiness and Finding a Better Way

by Patti Kelley Criswell

A Smart Girl's Guide: Friendship Troubles: Dealing With Fights, Being Left Out & The Whole Popularity Thing

by Patti Kelley Criswell

A Smart Girl's Guide: Drama, Rumors & Secrets: Staying True to Yourself in Changing Times

by Nancy Holyoke

A Smart Girl's Guide to Knowing What to Say

by Patti Kelley Criswell

HOW

TO

HELP

KIDS

SUCCEED

MIDDLE

&

Tanni Haas, Ph.D

As a professional educator for more than 20 years and the parent of a 15-year-old, I’ve learned a lot about what it takes for kids to succeed in middle and high school and what parents can do to support them. Here are some of the most important lessons:

Teach Them To Plan Ahead - and Backwards On the first day of middle school, kids often get an “agenda book” (or calendar) to write down all of their assignments with deadlines. This is a great way to teach them the importance of planning ahead so they don’t hand in their assignments late. But an important thing kids have a hard time understanding is that the agenda book isn’t just for planning ahead but also for planning backwards, in the sense of creating a time line. Teach your kids to take each assignment deadline and work backwards, so they can see what they need to do each day to turn in their assignments on time. Once my son understood this idea of planning backwards, he became much better at managing his time and stopped spending all-nighters writing essays that were due the very next day.

Duke | 102

HIGH

YOUR IN

SCHOOL

Teach Them To Study for Mastery Not Time An agenda book is great for teaching kids what and

ways of using the internet that can actually boost your

when to study. It doesn’t help much in teaching them

kids’ learning. For example, my son recently completed

how to study. You can teach them that by making

a fairly difficult high school course in Physics. He’s a

them understand that they need to focus on learning

solid student who takes good notes and studies hard,

the material and not the amount of time they spend studying. When my son was in his first year of middle school, he used to give himself a certain amount of time each evening for homework. That was fine but every so often he didn’t do as well on a test as he’d expected. As an experiment, I encouraged him to focus on the material instead of how long he studied it. That

but he got much better at solving Physics problems when he started watching Youtube videos. He found a lot of videos where teachers from schools across the country demonstrated how to solve problems in different ways.

changed everything. Sometimes he now studies for

Teach Them Real-World Applications of

several hours before he’s ready for a test. Other times 30

Learning

minutes or less is sufficient. He has learned to focus on the material, not the clock.

An excellent way to support your kids’ learning is to teach them the real-world applications of what they’re

Teach Them To Use the Internet - But Wisely

studying in school: it makes the material stick so much better than any amount of homework. To help my son

No matter where you look, you see warnings about the

better understand math concepts, I often ask him to

dangers of letting you kids surf the internet when

help me with practical things that require an

they’re studying. These warnings aren’t without merit. If

understanding of math, like adapting dinner recipes for

your kids are constantly checking social media or

more people than originally planned or taking

playing games, they are distracted, and that’ll

measurements for new window treatments in our

negatively affect how well they absorb the material.

However, there are

home.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | TOP SCHOOLS

14120 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079 www.yorkshireacademy.com | Phone :281-531-6088

FAST FACTS Grades Served: 18 monthS - 5th grade School Type: Private Elementary & Pre-School Afterschool Programs: Coding, Yoga, Chess, Piano, Tae Kwon Do, Golf, and dozens more Recognitions: The first and only Ocean Guardian School in the Houston area Yorkshire Academy, a private school located in the Memorial area, was established in 1984 with its primary goal being to create an environment in which children can develop to their fullest potential at their own individual rate.

Yorkshire’s tag line “A Little School Making a Big Impact” rings true. Yorkshire provides top notch academics, stellar enrichment classes, and a nurturing environment which makes students feel welcome and secure.

Yorkshire strives to develop the whole person, guiding each child with experiences to enhance his or her own self-image, whether it be excelling within dynamic classroom academics, singing and dancing in amazing musical productions, earning a 1st place academic competition ribbon in math, or mastering the latest technology in the computer lab. Yorkshire students graduate with all the tools necessary for middle school success. www.yorkshireacademy.com Call 281.531.6088 to schedule a personal tour

26 HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | TOP SCHOOLS

A College Prep Montessori School, Teaching Early Childhood through Grade 12.

School of the Woods, the oldest continuously operating Montessori school in the Houston area, provides an educational program proven and strengthened through more than four decades of successful experience.

The Main campus is nestled cozily in a close-in neighborhood in Spring Branch approximately 1 mile north of I-10 off Wirt Rd. The campus is heavily wooded and landscaped with native Texas plants. The sylvan environment is an integral part of the curriculum. The buildings were designed to integrate with the natural environment of the campus. They are cottage style structures sized to fit the needs of the students.

In addition to a robust academic program, students at School of the Woods participate in both sports & the arts. Music, Theater, Dance and Performance Arts, as well as Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Swimming and Track & Field are all available!

Regis' core strength is teaching boys and creating scholars and gentlemen

7330 Westview Drive Houston TX 77055 P: 713-682-8383 TheRegisSchool.Org At its founding in 1991, The Regis School of the Sacred Heart became the first and only 3 Pre-K through eighth grade all-boys Sacred Heart school in the Houston area, fulfilling a need in the city’s Catholic community.

The school’s founders—with the guidance of Archbishop Fiorenza—envisioned a unique educational environment for their sons, simultaneously grounded in rigorous academics and the Sacred Heart Goals of faith, intellect, service, community and maturity.

The Sacred Heart Goals shape not only curriculum development, but also teaching practices, character education and—most importantly—spiritual development.

Based upon the Sacred Heart Goals, Regis students move through a deliberate progression from a guided learner to an active participant to an effective contributor, and ultimately to become an engaged leader called The Regis Experience.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 27

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | TOP SCHOOLS

1424 Sherwood Forest, Houston TX 77043 P: 713-465-0288 TheBranchSchool.Org

As a private school focused on inspiring students to love, learn, and lead, The Branch School instills a drive toward discovery, intellectual resilience, and leadership ability across our preschool, elementary, and middle school program. All of our students, preschool through grade 8, experience project-based, hands-on learning with a Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math (STEAM) focus.

This hands-on, project-based STEAM program makes Branch students deeper thinkers and more enthusiastic learners, laying an important early foundation of scientific knowledge and technological know-how. Our challenging academics and collaborative learning opportunities help each student develop critical-thinking capacities, creative problemsolving skills, and a lifelong love of learning – making us one of the best private schools in Houston.

OPEN HOUSE JAN 27TH, 2024 - RSVP @ TheBranchSchool.org

Houston’s only school for Gifted & Talented Students

11059 Timberline Road, Houston, TX 77043 P: 713-647-7246 Rainard.Org

Our Mission: The mission of Rainard is to embrace the needs of gifted children by nurturing the individual’s intellectual growth, social skills, and emotional development in an environment that inspires the joy of learning.

Why Parens Choose The Rainard School: We Embrace the Gifted Interest Based Learning We Focus on Nature Multi Age Small Class Sizes Gifted Instructors Learning Outisde the Classroom Gifted Community Fluid Learning Environment To find out more, schedule a tour @ rained.org.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | TOP SCHOOLS

5000 Tidwell Rd, Houston, TX 77091 www.oslschool.org | Phone : 713.290.8277

At Our Savior, it is their mission to Serve Families for Jesus Christ. They provide a classical Lutheran education for the nearby areas of Inwood, Garden Oaks/Oak Forest, the Heights and Houston communities.

As a classical Lutheran school, they provide an exceptional education for all children. Classical education is a beautiful, tried, and true teaching model that allows our teachers to instruct all children, regardless of their abilities. Our Savior does not exist to simply provide our young scholars with the skills they need for the next level, or the ability to score high on standardized tests. They provide an education that is centered in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and seek to cultivate wisdom and virtue by nourishing the soul on that which is true, good, and beautiful. They are teaching our scholars how to think and to express themselves eloquently.

OSL is a loving community of families where our children grow and learn to live in the grace of Christ each day. Nurturing the faith of the children inside the school doors and outside on campus is their greatest joy and most important task. It is a privilege to serve each child and family.

God has blessed them with a beautiful 60-acre campus which allows them to see the beauty of His creation on a daily basis.

If you'd like to take a tour and see for yourself, please contact DGuevara@oslschool.org or visit their website at www.OSLSchool.org.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 29

One Last

Hurrah!

25 Ways Houston Families Can Celebrate the End of Summer

By Kimberly Guerra

Summer always seems to fly by.

One minute you're planning vacations and stocking up on sunscreen, and the next you're labeling school supplies and setting alarm clocks for the first day of class.

Before homework, practices, and busy schedules take over, why not hit the pause button and enjoy one final family adventure?

The best memories don't have to come from expensive vacations or elaborate plans. Sometimes the moments children remember most are the simplest—watching the sunset, sharing ice cream, laughing during a family game night, or exploring a place they've never visited before.

Whether you have an entire weekend or just one free afternoon, here are 25 easy ways to celebrate the final days of summer right here in the Greater Houston area.

Get Outside 1. Pack a Sunset Picnic Choose a favorite park, spread out a blanket, and enjoy dinner outdoors while watching the sun go down.

2. Visit a Splash Pad Even in August, Houston temperatures make splash pads a welcome way to cool off.

3. Explore a New Playground Challenge the kids to find a playground they've never visited before.

4. Take a Family Bike Ride Ride together through one of Houston's many hike-and-bike trails.

Food-Focused Fun 11. Have an Ice Cream Adventure Visit three different local ice cream shops and let everyone vote for their favorite flavor.

12. Create a DIY Pizza Night Set out toppings and let each family member invent their own pizza creation.

13. Host a Backyard Lemonade Stand Instead of selling lemonade, invite neighbors for free refreshments and conversation.

14. Try a New Family Restaurant Houston's incredible culinary scene offers flavors from around the world.

15. Make Homemade Popsicles Experiment with fresh fruit, yogurt, and juice combinations.

Create Together 16. Build a Backyard Campout Pitch a tent, tell stories, and count the stars.

17. Make a Summer Memory Book Print photos, save ticket stubs, and write favorite family moments.

18. Paint Kindness Rocks Hide them around your neighborhood for others to discover.

19. Create Sidewalk Chalk Art Turn your driveway into an outdoor art gallery.

20. Build an Indoor Fort Blankets, pillows, flashlights, and books make for an unforgettable afternoon.

5. Watch the Sunrise Together Set an early alarm and experience the quiet beauty of the city before it wakes up.

Give Back 21. Donate Outgrown School Supplies Many local organizations welcome donations of gently used backpacks, notebooks, and classroom supplies.

Become a Tourist in Your Own City 6. Visit the Houston Museum District Choose one museum your family has never explored.

22. Volunteer as a Family Spend a morning helping at a local food pantry, community garden, or animal shelter.

7. Spend the Day at the Houston Zoo See the newest animal exhibits and enjoy a full day outdoors.

Celebrate the New School Year 23. Write Family Goals Instead of only making school goals, ask everyone to choose one family goal for the fall.

8. Ride the Hermann Park Railroad Sometimes the classics never get old.

9. Explore Buffalo Bayou Park Walk, bike, or simply enjoy the downtown skyline.

10. Discover a Local Farmers Market Let each child pick one fruit or vegetable they've never tried before.

24. Host a "Goodbye Summer" Movie Night Choose a favorite family film, make popcorn, and enjoy one final late bedtime before school begins.

25. Start a New Family Tradition Take a first-day-of-school photo in the same spot every year, enjoy a special breakfast, or let each child choose dinner after the first day of school. Simple traditions become treasured memories.

HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 31

Things Your Child's Teacher Wishes You Knew

By Jill Morgenstern

F

all will soon be arriving and with it the promise of a brand new school year. It’s time for a fresh start for everyone.

But what if you and your child could start the school year knowing all the teacher’s wishes for the upcoming year?

It turns out you can!

We asked teachers what they wish the parents of their classroom kids knew and here’s what we found out:

Start with the teacher Aliyah Hitchcock, a teacher in central Houston stresses the importance of coming to the teacher first with any problems or frustrations, rather than going straight to the principal or director.

This is important not just because the principal is so busy, but also because often there has just been a misunderstanding. Even if it’s not a misunderstanding and may require a change on the teacher’s part, “Give us a chance to fix it.” asks Hitchcock.

Label EVERYTHING Most school’s lost and found could open their own clothing shop, not to mention the accessories. I can’t count the times as a teacher that I’ve had children refuse to acknowledge their own possessions. Do the teacher a favor and label as much as possible to reduce confusion.

Be the Teacher's Partner “Be a partner with your child’s teacher and the staff members that work with your child.” says Barbara Bennet of Spring ISD. Your child’s teacher may not be the one you would have chosen. He or she might have a communication style that doesn’t suit you. But whatever the general demeanor, your child’s teacher wants your child to succeed.

You can help by remembering that you’re both on the same team - your child’s.

Instill a love of Reading “Make sure your child loves reading. Motivation is a huge indicator of reading success.” says teacher Kelsey Montgomery.

One of the best ways to do this is to read aloud to your child.

They’re never too old!

Be an Open Book Let your child’s teacher know important information about your child.

“How does he/she react to being corrected? You'd be surprised how even a gentle correction can sometimes trigger a child to feel angry/upset/shamed - other kids only respond to feedback to the point of bluntness.” says Helen Bibler, a certified teacher librarian from Illinois.

Information such as this may be requested on the beginning of the year forms. If so, be sure and fill them out thoroughly.

Michelle Renfrow, a Houston area teacher adds that this includes filling your child’s teacher in on any traumatic experiences your child may have endured, “Family member passing away, family pet passing away, flooding, hurricanes etc…” Make sure and include medications or allergies in this information. An email is a good way to communicate this information if it is not part of a required form.

Make Custody Info Known This can be particularly important if a divorce has been contentious, but even divorced parents that get along well should make sure the teacher has all necessary information.

“My ex and I get along great but by letting the teachers know to include both of us, it makes sure that nothing slips through the cracks. This goes for emails, phone calls, etc,” says Jill Kaplin, a Houston area teacher.

Teach Respect Josh Lukasek, a teacher north of Houston, reminds parents that, “Respect begins at home. If parents don’t respect teachers, administrators, coaches, the kids never will.” This includes refraining from making negative comments about the teacher whenever a child might overhear.

Encourage Independence “Allow your child to be independent. Allow them to make decisions and to make mistakes.

Doing everything for your child teaches them they are not able to think on their own.” says Houston area teacher Suzy Schaffer.

Set Realistic Expectations Help your child, “understand that you can’t win or make perfect scores every time…. Each child is great in their own way. Be kind!!” says Pat Mintz, a Houston area teacher.

Encourage Communication “To further develop vocabulary language skills and conversation etiquette, initiate interactive discussions with your child. Engage in active listening, pause between their words and yours, and respond in complete, on topic sentences.” says Houston area teacher Heather Thomas.

Galveston Island

July 26 Calendar of Events

JANUARY 2025

1

Nature Story Time

Movie Night on the Lawn: Barbie Come by POST for Movie Night on the Lawn! For this edition on our rooftop park, Skylawn, we'll be showing 'Barbie'. Grab some delicious food and beverages from POST Market and enjoy the movie.

All ages. 8-10pm. Free. www.posthtx.com Tree ID Walk Any season is a great season to learn about trees! Jim McKee, a Master Naturalist, tree lover, and bird watcher will be leading more walks throughout the year to teach us how to identify the trees that live here in Russ Pitman Park.

You’ll learn how to use leaf, bark, twig characteristics, and more to identify local trees.

All ages. 10-11am. Free. www.naturediscoverycenter.org Sound Healing Meditation Step into a deeper stillness inside the spacious and tranquil Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern. Through gentle vibrations of singing bowls, wind chimes, and a gong, along with guided awareness, participants are supported in reconnecting body and mind. This series is more than meditation – it is a practice of listening, feeling, and returning to center within one of Houston’s most iconic, immersive spaces.

Ages 9+. 6pm. $20. Select Saturdays and Sundays. www.buffalobayou.org Cactus & Succulent Showcase Beat the heat and see Mercer's extensive collection of cacti and succulents on display for three days.

Vote for your favorite plant in our "People's Choice Awards."

All ages. 8am-5pm. Free. Through August 2nd. www.pct3.com/MBG

Nocturnal Navigators Join us for crafts, presentations, and garden walks designed to help you learn more about and search for the moths and bats that play key roles in the ecosystem after dark.

All ages. 6-9:30pm. Non-member: $12/adult, $8/child/student/senior/military Member Ticket Price: $0 (included in general admission benefit of membership level) Hbg.org Back to School Bash ​Summer isn’t over yet, but it’s time to gear up for an unforgettable night!

Join us at Central Green Park as we send off the summer in style with an epic evening packed with live music, games, and excitement for the whole family!

All ages. 7:30-9pm. Free. www.centralgreenpark.com FREE Sandcastle Building Lessons Attention sandcastle builders!

Galveston is hosting a free, familyfriendly event to help beachgoers create spectacular sandcastles with guidance from a pro.

Visitors to East Beach can participate in “Sandcastle Days” to receive free sandcastle-building lessons from a professional sandcastle builder. The lessons will take place at 11AM, 1PM, and 3PM. Lessons are by the water’s edge, straight down from the East Beach Pavilion. Registration is not required.

All ages. Various Times. Free. www.visitgalveston.com Discovery Room Hours Please come inside to visit our Discovery Rooms and see our Ambassador Animals, read a book from our nature library, touch and examine some of our natural history specimens, pick up a scavenger hunt and more!

All ages. 10am-3pm. Free. Also August 2nd. www.naturediscoverycenter.org

Young Audiences of Houston Offering family friendly, live art experiences perfect for a wide variety of ages. These interactive workshops and performances last between 60 and 90 minutes and involve YAH artists and ensembles, crossing genres of dance, visual arts, theater, music, and literary arts.

All ages. 1 pm. Free. Every Sunday. www.levyparkhouston.org

2

Barkini Contest

Benefiting the Galveston Humane Society. Join us in the beer garden for the 3rd Annual Barkini Contest!

Watch as our furry friends strut their stuff in the hottest beachwear, vying for fantastic grand prize gift baskets and runner-up prizes in both small and large dog categories.

Enjoy a day filled with fun activities, including: photo booth, splash pad, concessions and silent auction with exciting items to bid on.

All ages. 2-3pm. $20/pet. www.visitgalveston.com Bumper Boats And Cruiser Boats Grab your best bud and race over to Discovery Green, because for a limited time only we’re offering Bumper Boats. The boat basin at Discovery Green will be home to motorized bumper cars ready for you to spin, twirl and steer into oncoming vessels. No previous captaining experience necessary! The perfect way to explore Kinder Lake in the middle of downtown Houston. Take a leisurely cruise under the shaded canopy in these electric-powered boats.

Whether you’re bumping around with friends or gliding through the water in style, it’s the ultimate way to cool off and have a blast in the heart of downtown Houston!

All ages. 10am-11pm. $12/bumper boat, $25/cruise boat. Through September. Please see website for restrictions. www.discoverygreen.com

AUG 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Zumba by Tiny Fitness Join the party and sweat with Tiny Fitness to rhythms from around the world!

Ages 16+. 9a Sunday & 6:30p Monday. Free. Every Sunday & Monday. www.levyparkhouston.org

BotaniCamp - Plant STEM Put plants to work! Campers will turn vegetables into batteries, explore plant chemistry, build seed gliders, and uncover the surprising science behind the plants we see every day.

BotaniCamp is $315 per camper per week. Garden members receive a $25 discount per camper per week. Or, Esplanade at Navigation Market you can choose to register your Brought to you by the East End camper for a single day(s) within a District, the East End Farmers Market weekly session for $75 per camper is open every Sunday from 10am to per day (with a $10 discount per 2pm on the Navigation Esplanade in camper per day for Garden members). front of the historic original Ninfa’s Whichever option you choose, please Restaurant. Unique among Houston’s make sure to register no later than farmers markets, the East End the Friday before the themed week in Farmers Market blends sights and which you plan to enroll. sounds, cuisine and culture to create While all campers start the day an experience that is rooted in one of together and have opportunities to Houston’s most historic communities. interact, programming is tailored to Visit the East End Farmers Market to two age groups: 5-7 and 8-11. sample fresh garden fruits and August 3-7. vegetables, locally produced farm Ages 5-11. Members free $290/week, and dairy products, prepared foods, non-members $315/week. 9am-2pm. and unique handcrafted wares.

Hbg.org All ages. 10am-2pm. Free. Every Sunday Goats at the eastendhouston.com/market/ Arboretum Family Zone Through play and experimentation in programs like MFAH Playdate, toddlers have their first experience with art. This event encourages children 4 and younger, with their adult caregivers, to join a Museum educator for a multi-sensory experience in the galleries.

Participants sing songs, listen to storybooks, and join in fun games and activities, all while being introduced to ideas and themes found in the art on view at the MFAH. Ages 12-. 11:30am-12:30pm. $10/person. Also Aug 16. www.mfah.org

3

Animal Tales

Join us for a weekly story time featuring some of our favorite animals! Each week we will read a nature-themed book, observe biofacts and/or live animals, and then venture out on the trails for a selfguided hike.

Ages 18mo-3yo. $5 member / $7 nonmember (per child, per class).

9:30-11:30am, 2 classes. Mondays through August 3. Each child must be accompanied by their guardian.

Siblings are welcome to attend but must be registered to participate. www.houstonarboretum.org

4

Goats from GoatScaping LLC will be at the Arboretum this August clearing out invasive and aggressive native understory brush and vegetation to allow for increased biodiversity! This year, the goats will be working on a 7 acre area in the northwest corner of the Arboretum between the 610 Parking Loop, the Ravine Trail, and the Event Lawn. Read below for some helpful tips for viewing the goats at work!

All ages. Free. 7am-7:30pm. www.houstonarboretum.org Family Storytime and Craft Join us for a cross-generational literacy experience! Family Storytime features a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included as a part of this free program.

Ages 5 yo and under. 10a. Free. Every Tuesday. www.levyparkhouston.org

5

After Hours at The Bryan

Our first Thursdays is now on Wednesdays twice a month! To kick off the new Wednesday social, music and wine series listen to the lively sounds of Galveston's Swack and Jack!

Adult. 4-7 pm. Free. Also August 15. www.thebryanmuseum.org

Blossom Brigade Come out and volunteer with Mercer staff to support pollinators in the gardens and local community. This weekly team of volunteers harvests seeds from the garden, then processes the seeds to prepare for community giveaways. Work varies from indoor to outdoor depending on seasonal needs.

Ages 16+. 9-11am. Free. Every Wednesday through August 31. www.pct3.com/MBG Story Time with Ms. Maria Since 2016, Maria has led an independent storytime program in communities and public forums, sparking a lifelong love of reading in children from infancy through their early years. Her dynamic, hour-long sessions blend songs, storytelling, and crafts— transforming reading into an engaging, joy-filled experience for young audiences.

All ages. 10-11am. Free. www.centralgreenpark.com Nature Story Time Preschoolers and their caregivers join us on Central Wednesday afternoons for Green naturePark stories, live animals, touchable specimens, and a simple craft.

Ages 2-5. 4-5pm. Free. Every Wednesday. www.naturediscoverycenter.org Buffalo Bayou Wellness Walk Join Buffalo Bayou Partnership on a free Wellness Walk led by Laura Conely, founder of Urban Paths.

Anyone and everyone is invited to walk through the paths of Buffalo Bayou Park while discussing topics including mental and physical health as well as the benefits of being exposed to nature.

All ages. Free. 6:30-8pm. Every Wednesday. www.buffalobayou.org

6

Back-to-School Scavenger Hunt

Kick off the new school year with a fun adventure at Mercer! Stop by the Mercer Visitor Center to pick up a Back-to-School Scavenger Hunt. Explore the gardens as you discover the wonders of nature and sharpen observation skills. Children who complete the hunt will receive a free prize and a take-home craft while supplies last. It's a fun way to celebrate learning before heading back to the classroom. Through August 31.

All ages. 8am-4:30pm. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG Little Explorers Encourage your child’s curiosity about nature and spend time with them exploring outdoors! Children 18 months to 4 years, with an adult companion, can join a Naturalist for a story reading, a simple nature or sensory development activity, and a stroller-friendly hike on the beautiful Arboretum trails. Enjoy an interesting new nature experience each week with themes such as flowers, shapes, and butterflies!

2-4yo. 9:30am-12pm. 2 classes. Member $10, nonmember $12 non-member. $7 / person. www.houstonarboretum.org

Sound Healing Meditation

Aug 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Children’s Bingo Bring the kiddos and join our Levy Park team for Children’s Bingo! This 30-minute program, ideal for kids aged 4 to 12, is a fun way for children to practice their letters and numbers while earning prizes. Levy Park provides Bingo cards, markers, and prizes. B-I-N-G-O! All ages. 4:30pm. Every Thursday. www.levyparkhouston.org Kingwood Farmers MarketF Kingwood Farmers Market is held every week in the picturesque Town Center Park located behind the shops on the Southwest corner of Kingwood Drive and West Lake Houston.

All ages. 2-6 pm. Free. Every Thursday. www.kwdfarmersmarket.com Blue Herring (Mystery Book Club) The Blue Herring (Mystery) Book Club meets the first Thursday of each month at 11:00 a.m. Anyone is welcome-no RSVP needed. This month's book is listed below.

Adults. 11a. Free. www.bluewillowbookshop.com

7

Summer Reading Donuts!

Meet the Mowers

8

Get your Blanket and movie snacks and head down to the Green for Movie Night.

All ages. 8-10pm. Free. www.discoverygreen.com Second Saturday Bird Survey Work on your bird watching skills while helping the Arboretum monitor bird populations on a fun, relaxed morning walk. Join us on the second Saturday of each month in the courtyard behind the building for a two-hour bird survey led

by Arboretum staff members, Kelsey Low and Theo Ostler. We welcome all levels of bird watching skill and all ages (as long as you’re quiet) – but no dogs, please! If you have binoculars of your own, please bring them. We have a limited number of binoculars available to borrow.

All ages, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Free. 8-10am. www.houstonarboretum.org Dance of the Insects Modern dancers use poetry, music, creative movement, and audience participation to captivate and educate about various garden insects including ladybugs, butterflies, bumblebees, and more. Presented by Young Audiences of Houston.

Ages 4+. 11am & 1pm. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG

Houston Arboretum Members are the G.O.A.T! Join us on the Event Lawn for this Members-only appreciation event is designed as a relaxed, drop-in experience.

Members can observe the goats while enjoying the Trail Mix Grazing Station, a self-serve snack station with assorted trail mix ingredients, and informal engagement Buffalo Bayou Cruise with staff and volunteers.

All ages. Members only. Free. 10am-12pm. Look back at Houston’s history while cruising Buffalo Bayou on a 90-minute www.houstonarboretum.org tour with a local historian. Your guide will share stories of the Allen brothers Tom's Fun Band "Reduce, Reuse, and provide historical information about Recycle" the people, places, and events along the Come out and learn imaginative and thought provoking ways to recycle common bayou that helped shape Houston. items through Tom’s Fun Band showcasing Ages 4+. 5-6:30pm. Ages 4-12 $32, ages 12+ $40. Also August 22. comedy, music, and simple steps to www.buffalobayou.org conservation. Presented by Young Audiences of Houston.

Birds & Blooms All ages. 11am-12pm. Free.

Join Houston Audubon for an www.pct3.com/MBG introduction to the world of native plants and avian habitats. Participants MFAH Playdate will discover the beauty and benefits of Through play and experimentation in native plants in a climate-controlled programs like MFAH Playdate, toddlers setting, and then venture outdoors to have their first experience with art. This event encourages children 4 and younger, identify in the Garden native plant species that support local bird with their adult caregivers, to join a populations. There will also be an Museum educator for a multi-sensory opportunity to pot your own native plant experience in the galleries. Participants sing songs, listen to storybooks, and join in to take home, so participants can contribute to conserving the natural fun games and activities, all while being habitats of our feathered friends. introduced to ideas and themes found in All ages. Members free, non-members the art on view at the MFAH. $20. 5:30-7pm.

Ages 4-. 11:30am-12:30pm. $10/person.

Hbg.org www.mfah.org

Animal Tales

Post Houston

Movie Night A Barbie Movie

Celebrate Summer Reading with donuts at the bookshop!

Stop by to enjoy a donut and chat with us about all the great books you read this summer. We look forward to seeing you!

All ages. 10-11a. Free. www.bluewillowbookshop.com Gentle Yoga Flow All fitness levels are welcome in this free fitness series at Discovery Green presented by UTHealth Houston. Registration is requested on site. Bring a towel and water, as well as a mat for yoga classes.

Adult. 6:30-7:30pm. Free. www.discoverygreen.com Gem Mint Cardshow The show that brought the hobby to POST is back once again—Gem Mint Cardshow 3.0.

Step into a massive collector’s marketplace featuring 200+ vendor tables packed with Pokémon, sports cards, trading cards, collectibles, artwork, and more. This weekend is built around more than just buying and selling—it’s about the atmosphere, the community, and the experience. From longtime collectors to those just getting started, Gem Mint Cardshow brings everyone together under one roof where the hobby is celebrated at its highest level.

All ages. Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am6pm. Free. www.posthtx.com Summer Saturday Night Fireworks Cap off your Saturday nights this summer with a vibrant fireworks display over the waters of Offatts Bayou.

Every Saturday at Palm Beach, the sky lights up with a fireworks finale around 9:15 PM, the perfect ending to a day in the sun. Watch from the white sand beach, float the lazy river, or grab a seat at the Shoreline Grill, open with a full menu and cocktails from the bar.

All ages. 9:15pm. Free. Every Saturday. www.moodygardens.com

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Little Artists

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Families are invited to join an exciting art adventure at the Museum. Activities include a storybook circle, making art projects in the studio, and visiting the galleries with an MFAH teaching artist.

Ages 3-5. 1-2:30 pm. $10 / person www.mfah.org

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Aug 2026 Picture This: Photography & Astronomy Through photography and astronomy, the Garden invites you to view the world around — and above — you in fresh ways.

First, the Houston Center for Photography presents a fun and interactive scavenger hunt. You’ll be given a list of creative prompts to practice observation skills and spark new ways of seeing your surroundings. This activity — which is great for all ages — encourages exploration, teamwork, and imaginative image-making.

Second, the Houston Astronomical Society will have telescopes set up for safe solar observations, followed by viewing of the moon, Venus, and some of the other brightest stars after dark.

All ages. 5-10pm. Adult $12, child $8. hbc.org

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Second Saturday Bird Survey

Houston Restaurant Weeks Houston’s most anticipated foodie event of the year begins August 1st and runs through September 7th, 2026. That’s 38 days of delicious meals and super deals raising necessary funds for the Houston Food Bank. An extensive list of the most popular restaurants will participate and serve specially priced, multi-course prix fixe menus for brunch ($25), lunch ($25), or dinner ($39 or $55), available for dinein and take-out.

All ages. Till Sept 7. houstonrestaurantweeks.com Mythical Realms Step into a world where legends come alive! Wander through an enchanted trail and come face-to-face with dragons, mythical creatures, and legendary beings drawn from ancient folklore at TXU Energy presents Mythical Realms.

From the mighty sea monster Kraken and Pegasus, the iconic winged horse, to Taniwha, a powerful supernatural guardian from Māori tradition, and Xolotl, a significant figure in Aztec mythology, you’ll discover a magical collection of legendary creatures from cultures around the world. Plus, don’t miss our interactive dig sites and epic photo ops to make your experience one to remember.

All ages. 8am-pm. $39+. www.houstonzoo.org

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I'm With the Banned Book Club

Banned Books Book Club, I'm With the Banned, meets the second Tuesday of each month at 11:00 a.m. This month's book is listed below.

Adults. Free. 11 am. www.bluewillowbookshop.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Tahitian Tuesday A Good Yarn Book Club Join us for Tahitian Tuesday hosted by South A Good Yarn audiobook and yarn crafts Seas Productions, Houston's premier club! The day of the week will continue Polynesian entertainment group & dance to vary. We will select a book that is in school! This is a free, high-energy class open to paperback AND audiobook for all ages and skill levels that blends fun cardio discussion. Please continue to bring with the beauty of Tahitian dance. You'll get to your yarn/craft projects to work on learn the fundamental steps, technique, and together! cultural history while moving to the vibrant Adults. 7pm. Free. rhythms of the islands. Whether you're looking www.bluewillowbookshop.com for a great workout, a cultural experience, or just a fun way to spend your Tuesday, join and Bat Chats dance your way to the South Seas!

All ages. 7-8 pm. Free. www.posthtx.com

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Inner-Space Camp: Connecting Mind, Body, & Spirit

Join Dr. Jei Pearcey and learn to find balance within your body by using sound, scent, and somatic tracking in the beauty of Mercer’s garden. This new program is ideal for adults who wish to find inner peace from daily stressors, ADHD, depression, chronic pain, and anxiety. Bring a yoga mat or towel. Meet in front of the Mercer Visitor Center and walk to the grass lawn next to the Prehistoric Garden.

Registration not required.

Ages 18+. 8-10am. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG Japan Junction August in Japan is known as Tsuyu, the rainy season, when gentle rains and cloudy skies become a part of daily life. But what do you do when you are hoping for sunny weather before an important day? In Japan, people often hang Teru Teru Bozu, a traditional handmade decoration believed to bring good weather. Usually made from tissue paper or cloth, these cheerful little figures are displayed near windows or doors to wish for sunshine. Join us for a kamishibai reading of “Okeya no Ten Nobori” or “The Tubmaker Who Flew to the Sky,” a whimsical tale featuring a sleepy thunder god, Kaminarisama, whose storms bring rainy weather.

After the story, make your own Teru Teru Bozu out of craft paper to chase away the rain and Kaminari-sama and invite sunny skies!

All ages. 4:30pm. Free. www.levypark.com

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Seeds & Senses

Bring your child out to dig into garden themed sensory play, make new friends, and enjoy hands-on activities that support early learning curiosity and fine motor development.

Ages 1-3. 9-11am or 2-4pm. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG

Around sunset, view the Mexican Freetailed Bats leave the crevices and create a whirlwind-like formation under the bridge. Join the Houston Area Bat Team to learn and discover as they share fun facts and insights about these miniature, flying mammals!

Ages 5-11. Members free $290/week, non-members $315/week. 9am-2pm. www.buffalobayou.org Movie Night on the Lawn: Mamma Mia Come by POST for Movie Night on the Lawn! For this edition on our rooftop park, Skylawn, we'll be showing 'Mamma Mia'.Grab some delicious food and beverages from POST Market and enjoy the movie.

All ages. 8-10pm. Free. www.posthtx.com

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Froggy Night

Hop on over for a wet, wild night! Enjoy refreshments (frog-themed snacks, coffee, and Saint Arnold Brewing Company beer) while you learn all about the strange and wonderful world of frogs, from their croaking courtship to their mysterious metamorphosis.

Weather permitting, we’ll also go for a Spirits of the Bayou hike to search for frogs and other Boat Tour nocturnal creatures.

Ages 21+. 7-9pm. $37 member / $52 nonmember. www.houstonarboretum.org Celebration in Sound In celebration of the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern’s 100th birthday, BBP will present an original site-specific performance for eight tubas reverberating throughout this cavernous former drinking water reservoir.

All ages. 11am-1pm. $15. 20 minute sessions. www.buffalobayou.org

Aug 2026 For the Dogs Houston’s Garden celebrates the “dog days of summer,” with special doggie admission throughout the month of August. On this night, in particular, we invite you to bring your fourlegged pal(s) for a doggie gettogether in the Garden. Meet and mingle with other dog lovers, learn more about dog-focused programs at the SPCA, and visit with a paw-full of dog-friendly vendors.

All ages. Non-member ticket price: $12/adult, $8/child/student/senior/military, $5/dog Member ticket price: Free (member dogs included), per the benefit(s) of membership level. 5-8pm.

Hbg.org Bookstore Romance Day 2026 Blue Willow Bookshop loves Romance!

Join us on Saturday for Bookstore Romance Day, a national holiday (started by a bookseller!) that celebrates Romance books, its authors, and its readers.

Adults. Free. 6:30-7:30pm. www.bluewillowbookshop.com

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Horizon

Visitors to the Plaza at Avenida Houston will soon be able to slow down and unwind with an innovative new art installation that promises to transform parts of the entertainment campus into a tranquil escape.

Horizon is an egg-shaped dome that inspires visitors to ignite their imagination as they gently rock the chair inside the interactive structure to activate a unique blend of light and sound.

All ages. Free. Through Sept 17. www.avenidahouston.com Ready! Set! Pedal! Bike Freedom Academy Bike Freedom is the premier bike riding program for ages 2 through adults, offering both dynamic group sessions and personalized private lessons. Guided by passionate coaches, our engaging classes teach essential biking skills, build confidence and character, and ensure everyone can experience the joy, freedom, and lifelong benefits of cycling!

All ages. 5:30 – 6:30 pm. $65 / person. www.bikefreedomacademy.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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Houston Botanical Garden

Reading Camp with Ms. Najia

Ms. Najia will guide the little ones through phonics, word recognition, and stimulating book discussions. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to learn and grow while having fun, and we can’t wait to see everyone there!

7-. 10-11am. Free. www.centralgreenpark.com Blooming Wonders Designed by the ARTECHOUSE Studio, Blooming Wonders is a captivating, multi-sensory journey that celebrates the beauty of nature through the lens of technology. A feast for the senses and a can’t-miss experience this Summer!

All ages. 13+ $30, 4-12 $17. 10am8pm. Through August. www.artechouse.com

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Made In Texas

This exhibition features photographs, designer flight attendant artifacts created through the years by renowned fashion designer Emilio Pucci, and aircraft from LSFM’s collection, celebrating the incredible people, planes, and companies that have affected aviation in the Lone Star State.

All ages. Adult $18, youth $15, child $12, 4- free. 10am-5pm. lonestarflight.org Undercurrents Experience Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s Undercurrents, an immersive chamber of voices, light, and memories within the cavernous Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, leading to an audiovisual representation of communication across time, space, and relationships.

Visitors are invited to speak, listen, and reflect as voices are carried through a glowing network of light, creating a living, ever-changing environment shaped by those who enter.

All ages. Adult $15, youth 12-17 $12.

10am-5pm. Through Jan 24, 2027 buffalobayou.org

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Coffee Cake Book Club

Meeting the third Wednesday of each month at 11:00 a.m. Anyone is welcome, and no RSVP is required.

This months book – We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves: A Novel. Adults. 11am. Free. www.bluewillowbookshop.com

Family Nature Night – Creepy Crawlies: Insects & Spiders Come for a night of family fun at the Center complete with themed paper and food crafts, a brief guided nature walk in the park, and an engaging, interactive presentation by Head Naturalist Eric Duran with live animals and specimens.

All ages. 6:30-8pm. $12/person, 3+. www.naturediscoverycenter.org The Midweek Make | Sand Art Demonstrate your creative expression through sand art with Junrui Garcia.

Mostly 2D Art is not changeable, but sand art is!

Students will explore different ways of manipulating sand as media to create artwork, then transfer it to another medium. Artists will demonstrate their creative expression, cultural awareness, and aesthetic thinking skills by creating sand art. This session is available for all ages.

All ages. 5:30-7pm. Free. www.helixpark.com

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In Person: Storytime

Join us at the shop for story time every Thursday!

We read stories, sing songs, and do an art activity.

The themes change weekly. This story time is great for toddlers and preschoolers.

Toddlers. 9:30a. Free. Every Thursday. www.bluewillowbookshop.com Salsa y Bachata Night Join our free monthly Salsa Night, which includes Salsa, Bachata, and other Latin dance styles. We're curating a special evening with Latin dance lessons, social dancing, and tasty beverages. Class and music will be by Jocelyn Munoz (@SalsaMamihtx).

This night will be perfect for a Girls Night Out or a Date Night so bring your friends, colleagues, and family to a night of lessons, dance performances, and dancing at POST! Adult. Salsa 7-8pm, Bachata 8-9pm, Social dancing 9-10pm. Free. www.posthtx.com

Aug 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Silent Reading Party On Saturday, August 22, grab a book off your TBR stack and come down to the bookshop to read with us.

Soar into adventure in Helix Hall at the The silent reading party will officially start at 3:00 with time to mix, mingle TMC3 Collaborative Building! Join us for an epic evening with How to Train and browse. Silent reading will take place from 3:30-4:30 and we will Your Dragon, rated PG. Enjoy fresh wrap up with chat and time to shop popcorn, a selection of candies, and refreshing drinks on Friday, August 21, from 4:30-5:00. We'll plan to wrap up the party at 5pm. Come pick up a 2026. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to settle in and grab your snacks new book, read a few chapters, and maybe even meet a new book buddy. before the adventure begins.

Adults. 3pm. Free.

All ages. 6-8:30pm. Free. www.bluewillowbookshop.com www.helixpark.com

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Movie Night in Helix Hall | How To Train Your Dragon

Picture This: Photography & Astronomy First, the Houston Center for Photography presents a fun and interactive scavenger hunt. You’ll be given a list of creative prompts to practice observation skills and spark new ways of seeing your surroundings. This activity — which is great for all ages — encourages exploration, teamwork, and imaginative image-making.

Second, the Houston Astronomical Society will have telescopes set up for safe solar observations, followed Fourth Saturday by viewing of the moon, Venus, and Phenology Walk some of the other brightest stars after dark.

Discover the hidden seasonal rhythms of All ages. Adult $12, child $8. 5nature firsthand on our guided Phenology 10pm.

Walks, where we track the life cycles of www.hbg.org different plants across ecosystems, from the

The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks The show, co-written by Hanks and Chris Riley, tells the stories of the Apollo missions, reflecting their gripping journeys at a spectacular scale. Newly filmed interviews between Hanks and astronauts of the current Artemis program will grant an insight into the return of crewed surface missions to the moon.

All ages. 10 am-5 pm. $24.95+. www.spacecenter.org

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first spring bud burst to winter dormancy.

You’ll learn how shifting weather patterns and climate change influence the timing of these important events in our local ecosystems and how you can become a community scientist, contributing vital data from your own backyard to a global research initiative.

These relaxing morning walks are led by scientists from Rice University and staff from the Arboretum. We welcome nature enthusiasts of all ages, however kids 12 years and younger must be accompanied by a guardian.

All ages, 12- must be accompanied by an adult. Free. www.houstonarboretum.org

Bikes and Bats Join Buffalo Bayou Partnership and BikeHouston for a battygood time with a bike ride to the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony!

Bring your bike for an evening ride along Buffalo Bayou to the Waugh Drive Bridge, where you’ll witness an unforgettable sight —more than 300,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerging at sunset. Along the way, bat expert DeAndra Ramsey will share insights about these fascinating and important creatures—affectionately known as “sky puppies.” Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

Adults. 7-9pm. $10. www.buffalobayou.org

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Horizon

Visitors to the Plaza at Avenida Houston will soon be able to slow down and unwind with an innovative new art installation that promises to transform parts of the entertainment campus into a tranquil escape. Horizon is an eggshaped dome that inspires visitors to ignite their imagination as they gently rock the chair inside the interactive structure to activate a unique blend of light and sound.

Adult. 8am-11pm. Free. www.discoverygreen.com Family Art-Making Studio Families are invited to join a teaching artist for an afternoon in the galleries and the studio. Explore and learn about a work of art, and then create your own masterpiece.

Using high-quality materials and tools provides the opportunity to better understand artists’ techniques. Recommended for families with children ages 5 to 12.

1-2:30p. All ages. $10. www.mfah.org

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Houston Theatre Week

Summer savings are on the way as Houston Theater Week presented by Huntington Bank. Score exclusive deals and discounts to some of the best live performances in the city. For the fifth year, consumers can take advantage of buy-one-get-one-free tickets to hundreds of shows that include all genres of music, dance, opera, and, of course, theater at venues in the Theater District and across the city.

Ticket deals are available to a variety of performances, including treasured favorites like: A Christmas Carol, A Raisin in the Sun, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Handel’s Messiah, Kinky Boots, Romeo and Juliet, The Joffrey Ballet, and so many more.

All ages. Various prices. Various times.

HoustonTheaterWeek.com Beat The Bomb Suit up, Houston. You're about to have serious fun.

Gather your squad, suit up in hazmat gear, and advance through 5 game rooms—including a laser maze—to disarm the world's largest paint, foam, or slime bomb before it explodes. Whether you're in it for the challenge, the camaraderie, or just a great time, you're in for a blast, literally!

Win or lose, you're not done yet.

All ages. 12-9:30pm. $35+/person. houtickets.beatthebomb.com

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Tough Broads Out at Night Book Club

Tough Broads Out at Night book club meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at 7pm at Blue Willow Bookshop.

Adults. Free. 7-9pm. www.bluewillowbookshop.com Freedom Train In 1845, a courageous mother and daughter escape slavery on a Texas plantation and embark on a dangerous journey south to Mexico — where slavery has already been abolished. Inspired by true events, this powerful play reveals a rarely told chapter in American history.

For 31 years Express Children’s Theatre has been delighting children on the Hill with interactive plays that celebrate and ignite a love for learning. Each performance is written with the hearts and minds of children at the forefront and performed by incredible local talent.

All ages. 11am. Free. www.milleroutdoortheatre.com

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Melon & Berry FestivalFarmers & Artisan Market

Join us at the Energy Corridor Melon & Berry Market for an evening of farm-fresh produce, local shopping, delicious food, and supporting the amazing small businesses that make our community thrive.

All ages. 5-8 pm. Free. eventvesta.com/

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Aug 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Docent-Guided Historic House Just The Facts, Ma'am (Nonfiction Tours Book Club) Travel back in time with a historic Our new nonfiction book club, Just houses tour that feature 3 of the 10 the Facts, Ma'am, meets at 11am on historic houses. the 4th Friday of every month. The All ages. 10am, 11:30am, 1 pm & current month's book will be listed 2:30pm. Adult $16, youth $7, 5- free. below. www.heritagesociety.org Adults. Free. 11am. www.bluewillowbookshop.com

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Music in the Garden An exciting music, rhythm, and dance class for young children featuring Kindermusik music, curriculum, and instruments.

Ages 1-5. 10:30-11am. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG Smither Park Smither Park is a creative urban space that has developed with the help of artists and friends. Visionary artist and builder Dan Phillips worked alongside the late Stephanie Smither to design Smither Park in the memory of her late husband, John H. Smither. Inspired by the Orange Show's philosophy of promoting and sustaining selftaught art, over 300 artists have contributed permanent mosaic masterpieces, and it serves as a testimony to the vibrancy and creativity of the city of Houston.

All ages. 9 am-7 pm. Free. www.full.orangeshow.org/smither -park

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Summer Saturdays at Houston's Garden

Houston’s Garden celebrates the “dog days of summer,” with special doggie admission throughout the month of August. On this night, in particular, we invite you to bring your four-legged pal(s) for a doggie get-together in the Garden. Meet and mingle with other dog lovers, learn more about dog-focused programs at the SPCA, and visit with a paw-full of dog-friendly vendors.

Adult. Non-member ticket price: $35/adult Member ticket price: $20. 5-8pm.

Hbg.org

Drink & Draw: Birds

Yes, you CAN draw – and have fun while you do it! Grab a beer or nonalcoholic beverage from Saint Arnold Brewing Company and get creative. We’ll show you some basic bird doodling tricks and then practice drawing some beautiful bird specimens. All art supplies will be provided.

Ages 21+. $22 member / $37 nonmember. 5-7pm. www.houstonarboretum.org Salsa Night Houston’s Garden celebrates the “dog days of summer,” with special doggie admission throughout the month of August. On this night, in particular, we invite you to bring your four-legged pal(s) for a doggie get-together in the Garden. Meet and mingle with other dog lovers, learn more about dog-focused programs at the SPCA, and visit with a paw-full of dog-friendly vendors.

Adult. Non-member ticket price: $35/adult Member ticket price: $20. 5-8pm.

Hbg.org Moody Garden Car Show It’s a car lover’s dream come true at the Moody Gardens Convention Center, where rows of stunning classic and custom vehicles take center stage. From vintage beauties to one-of-a-kind creations, each car comes with its own unique story, making this an unforgettable experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

All ages. Sat 10am- 6pm, Sun 10am-3pm. $10+. www.moodygardens.com

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Undercurrents

Clickbait - A digital obsession Step beyond your smartphone screens and into the digital world in a whole new way. CLICKBAIT: a digital obsession, a first of its kind interactive exhibition, transforms the museum gallery into a walkable digital experience, exploring the systems that shape how we see, share, and connect in the 21st century.

All ages. 9am-5:30pm. $20+. www.hmns.org Houston Museum of Natural Science The Houston Museum of Natural Science comes to Levy Park to offer an opportunity to learn firsthand from Museum experts. Encounter real specimens and artifacts from the museum collection in an intimate, educational atmosphere.

All ages. 2pm. Free. www.levyparkhouston.org

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Date Night Scavenger Hunts

Looking for a cute date night idea? Your hunt is over!

Let’s Roam scavenger hunts are the perfect way to create lasting memories with your partner in crime. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first date or your 50th, a date night scavenger hunt is always a great time.

All ages. $12.99 / person www.letsroam.com Smither Park Smither Park is a creative urban space that has developed with the help of artists and friends.

Visionary artist and builder Dan Phillips worked alongside the late Stephanie Smither to design Smither Park in the memory of her late husband, John H. Smither. Inspired by the Orange Show's philosophy of promoting and sustaining self-taught art, over 300 artists have contributed permanent mosaic masterpieces, and it serves as a testimony to the vibrancy and creativity of the city of Houston.

All ages. 9 am-7 pm. Free. www.full.orangeshow.org/smither-park

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Aug 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NOW EXHIBITING

Houston Museum Houston Museum of of Natural Natural Science Science

Houston Museum of Natural Science www.hmns.org Hours: 9am-5pm Mon-Sun $35 adult, $27 children 3-11, senior 62+ and college students FREE every Thursday 2-5pm Clickbait Clickbait is an interactive exhibit where you play through 18 installations, make choices, and watch the system build a profile of you.

See how the internet sees you — a physical, playful, surprising look at AI, ads, algorithms, social media, deepfakes, online identity, and the data trail we create every day.

Special Exhibit Extreme Animals Alive Explore the unique adaptations that make Earth’s creatures fearless and fascinating, beautiful and bold.

Special Exhibit ATACAMA ATACAMA, a seminal exhibition by photographer Jamey Stillings, explores the evolving nexus between renewable energy and mining in Chile’s Atacama Desert.

Through his distinctive aerial perspectives, Stillings captures dramatic large-scale energy projects, vast mining operations, and the stark natural beauty of a desert often scarred by human activity.

Special Exhibit

The Health Museum www.thehealthmuseum.org

Museum Fine Arts Houston www.mfah.org

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm., Thurs. 10am-6pm., Sun. 12-5pm $10 adult, $8 senior 65+, free for children under 2 FREE on Thursdays 2-6 pm

Hours: Various times, Wed-Sun $24 adult, $20 children 13-18, senior 65+, children 12- free.

FREE every Thursday 11am-2pm

The Journey to End Cancer: From Cause to Cure Designed for both adults and children, this 5,000square-foot exhibition is full of multimedia experiences, thought-provoking science interactives, dynamic animations, stunning data visualizations, and inspiring first-person videos to engage and empower exhibitgoers.

Permanent Exhibit Leonardo’s Lab This hands-on exhibition offers young artists and inventors a chance to immerse themselves in the mind of Leonardo da Vinci, the original Renaissance man, and explore all the fascinating facets of his work across multiple disciplines. Build, sketch, test, and design via activities tied to Leonardo’s era and ideas. Children and adults alike will find the brain challenges, opportunities for creative expression, and intriguing ideas appealing.

Special Exhibit The Menil Collection menil.org Hours: Wed. -Sun. 11am-7pm.

Free Admission.

Modern and Contemporary Art The Menil Collection’s modern and contemporary holdings highlight a vast array of movements, materials, and styles, spanning the late 19th century to the present.

Special Exhibit through Fall 2026.

Picasso–Klee–Matisse: Masterpieces from the Museum Berggruen Highlighting the careers of Pablo Picasso and Paul Klee, as well as Henri Matisse’s signature cut-outs, Alberto Giacometti’s haunting sculptures, and the works of Georges Braque and Paul Cezanne, this exhibition explores the relationship of famed gallerist and collector Heinz Berggruen with the artistic community of postwar Paris and beyond. Assembled thematically, the collection reflects an intimate, personal approach to the European avant-garde that shines new light on titans of the 20th-century art world.

Special Exhibit through September 13, 2026.

Ernesto Neto: SunForceOceanLife Returning to the Museum’s vast Cullinan Hall this spring and summer, Ernesto Neto: SunForceOceanLife is a soaring crochet installation that fills the space with spiraling color and movement. A major MFAH commission by renowned Brazilian artist Ernesto Neto, SunForceOceanLife suspends visitors some 12 feet in the air as they navigate an interior network of handwoven passages.

Special Exhibit Through September 13.

The Hobby Centre

CENTER STAGE AUG26

THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN Alley Theatre July 24 through August 30, 2026

DEREK HOUGH Symphony of Dance: Encore Smart Financial Centre August 10, 2026

MEAN GIRLS THE MUSICAL Smart Financial Centre August 6-16, 2026

This modern psychological thriller, Cady Heron may have grown up on an adapted from the best-selling novel From the Emmy® Award-winning African savanna, but nothing prepared her and hit film, follows Rachel, a woman mind of Derek Hough, this brand-new for the wild and vicious ways of her struggling with dependency. She must production brings fresh, high-energy strange new home: suburban Illinois. How piece together her fragmented choreography, breathtaking stage will this naïve newbie rise to the top of the memories to find a girl who’s gone design, and Derek’s signature popularity pecking order? By taking on missing. As her night comes back to showmanship to cities across the The Plastics, a trio of lionized frenemies her, she considers: who can you trust country. Fans will experience a led by the charming but ruthless Regina when you can’t trust yourself? thrilling fusion of dance and music — George. But when Cady and her friends from ballroom and tap to salsa, hipdevise a "Revenge Party" to end Regina’s Adult. Various dates/times. $32+. hop, and beyond. Creative visionaries reign, she learns the hard way that you www.alleytheatre.org Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo (known can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting as NappyTabs), two-time Emmy® stung. Rated: PG-13 NIGHT COURT – DIAL L FOR winners recognized for their work LAWYER with Jennifer Lopez and the All ages. $18+. Various times.

Zilkha Hall Grammy®, join Derek to co-create, www.queensburytheatre.org August 26-29, 2026 direct, and choreograph this unforgettable production.

DRUNK PIRATES Pop the champagne, Moulin Rouge!

THE EMERALD THEATER The Musical is the winner of 10 Tony All ages. $35+. 8pm.

Aug 1-9, 2026 Awards® — including Best Musical! www.smartfinancialcentre.net Enter a world of splendor and The stage is set in a hidden venue. Five romance, of eye-popping excess, of BILL ENGVALL – HERE’S YOUR professional actors gather as members of glitz, grandeur, and glory! A world SIGN: IT WASN’T MY TIME The Drunk Shakespeare Society, and one where Bohemians and aristocrats rub The Grand of them downs five shots of whiskey elbows and revel in electrifying August 8, 2026 before attempting a leading role in a enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Shakespearean classic.

Rouge! The Musical! Baz Luhrmann’s Falsettos is a hilarious and What follows is 90 minutes of comedy, revolutionary film comes to life heartbreaking musical from Tony chaos, and quick-thinking improvisation onstage.,The Musical! is more than a Award winner William Finn (25th while the four sober actors fight to keep musical — it is a state of mind.

Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) the script on track. No two performances and acclaimed director James Lapine are ever the same. It all comes down to All ages. $65.50+. 7:30pm.

(Into the Woods, Sunday in the Park who’s drinking and what they’re drinking. www.thehobbycenter.org with George). It’s New York in the early 1980s, and Marvin’s life is All ages. $25+. Various times.

THE GUESS WHO complicated—he’s recently left his drunkshakespeare.com Smart Financial Centre wife Trina for his boyfriend Whizzer, August 8, 2026 but he still wants to stay close to his son Jason. What could go wrong?

The Guess Who are a Canadian rock Everything. And it’s spectacular. band formed in Winnipeg, Manitoba. All ages. $58+. 8pm.

The band released eleven studio www.thegrand.com albums, all of which reached the charts in Canada and the United States.

Adult. $35+. 7:30pm. www.smartfinancialcentre.net

The Woodlands

CENTER STAGE AUG26

ROCK THE BLOCK: A MUSICAL SUMMER SEND-OFF! Market Street The Woodlands August 4th, 2026

TOTO + CHRISTOPHER CROSS + THE ROMANTICS Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion August 7th, 2026

Too short to play football.

Too short to play Hamlet.

It helps to be funny.

New stories and old from master Texas storyteller Jaston Williams including the worlds angriest theatre director, the waiter who was scared of Champagne and the danger involved when trying to take the car keys away from a blind woman.

When short people fight back every blow is a low blow.

Toto, Christopher Cross, and The Romantics are co-headlining and touring North America together for a major summer concert series. The 32date Live Nation tour runs from July 15 through August 30, 2026, featuring Toto as the headliner, direct support from Christopher Cross, and opening performances by The Romantics.

All ages. 10am-12:30pm. Free. www.woodlandscenter.org JOHN MELLENCAMP The Dancing Words Tour: The Greatest Hits Cynthia Woods Mitchell August 6th, 2026

All ages. 6pm. $35. www.woodlandscenter.org THE BLACK CROWES & WHISKEY MYERS Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion July 5, 2026 The Southern Hospitality Tour is a coheadlining 2026 North American tour featuring rock legends The Black Crowes and southern rock powerhouse Whiskey Myers, with opening support from Southall. The tour spans over 40 cities through the spring and summer of 2026.

John J. Mellencamp (born October 7, 1951), previously known as Johnny Cougar, John Cougar, and John Cougar Mellencamp, is an American singer-songwriter. He is known for his brand of heartland rock, which All ages. $24+. 6:30pm emphasizes traditional www.woodlandscenter.org instrumentation. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008, followed by an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Famein 2018.

All ages. $38+. 8pm. www.woodlandscenter.org

TRAIN with Barenaked Ladies & Matt Nathanson Cynthia Woods Mitchell August 14th, 2026 Train is an American pop rock band from San Franciscothat formed in 1993. As of 2025, the band consists of Pat Monahan (lead vocals), Butch Walker (guitar, vocals), Hector Maldonado (bass, vocals), Jerry Becker (keyboards, guitar), and Matt Musty (drums). The band has had many lineup changes, with Monahan serving as the sole constant original member.

All ages. $44+. 6:45pm www.woodlandscenter.org CHICAGO & STYX Cynthia Woods Mitchell August 20th, 2026 Chicago and Styx are coming together for their first-ever co-headlining tour!

The two bands both got their start in Chicago and are bringing the best of the Midwest to venues nationwide with The Windy Cities Tour – All The Hits…Your Kind of Tour.

All ages. $34+. 7pm. www.woodlandscenter.org