Why our Futre Depends on the Arts Why our Futre Depends on the Arts
Go Team! 10 Ways To Raise Good Sports Go Team! 10 Ways To Raise Good Sports
help teens deal with adhd help teens deal with adhd creative consequences for kids creative consequences for kids Give dance a chance Give dance a chance pets and special needs kids pets and special needs kids to school or not school to school or not school
Worldwide, about 400,000 children and adolescents develop cancer each year. Only half of these children’s diseases are diagnosed.
To further advance cures, St Jude’s Children’s Hospital shares their research worldwide through data-sharing and analysis resources. St. Jude is the only World Health Organization (WHO) collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer and has partnered with WHO to create the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer which aims to cure at least 60% (6 out of 10) of children with 6 of the most common cancers by 2030. St. Jude, WHO and other international partners are also developing the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines to address the inconsistent availability of quality essential cancer medicines.
Learn more about the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer > https://bit.ly/4dZNnyr
Kick off the Season on September 14th at The Houston Polo Club!
Available online, and at Jeni’s scoop shops throughout Houston for the full season, this collection introduces four delicious new flavors that are perfect for those cozy couch moments
Caramel Apple Crumble Burnt Orange Cookies & Cream Miso Butterscotch Brownie,
Pop by your nearest location to try a scoop or order online and have it delivered to your door. Either way.....enjoy!! www.jenis.com
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
KIMBERLY
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
PHOTOGRAPHER
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
ROSENDO
VALERIE
SANDI
SCOTT
LAMBERT
If I have observed one thing after a decade of having a school-age child, it's that arts motivated kids perform better in school. Sure, my daughter comes from an artsy family already. Her mom is a writer and her dad is a theater director, but she's not an extension of us; she is uniquely herself, and her exposure to a wide variety of arts helps her discover her own passions, proclivities, and personhood.
Findingtimetobondwithyour grandchildrencanbechallenging, especiallyifyoulivefaraway. That’swhyI’vemadeitapointto makethemostofourspecialtime togetherinthesimplest, purestform–throughreading. Thesharedexperienceofreading withmygrandchildrenhas filledmewithjoyandcreated memoriesthatwillremainwithus forever.
This National Grandparents Day (Sept. 8) is the perfect time to start a new tradition of reading together. Here are a few creative ways to get started on your special reading journey!
This National Grandparents Day (Sept. 8) is the perfect time to start a new tradition of reading together. Here are a few creative ways to get started on your special journey!
TakeawalkwithyourgrandchildtovisitlocalLittleFreeLibrariesinyourneighborhood Chooseabooktogether.Whenyouaredonereadingit,together,putitinanotherLittleFree Libraryforothers
Severallibrariesandbusinessesprovideincentivestochildrenwhoread Makethis afunactivitywithyourgrandchildbyworkingwiththemtocompletetherequired readingminutes,andenjoytheperkstogether(pizzas,amusementparktrips,etc)
Audiobooksprovideawonderfulsharedexperiencetofostertheloveof learningwhileonthego!Plus,theygivechildrentheopportunitytolistento booksatahigherlevelthanthey’dnormallyread.
Bookclubsaretheperfectwaytosocializewithfriendswhileencouraginga loveofreading Roundupsomeofyourfriendsandtheirgrandchildrenand startplanningregularmeetingstodiscussageappropriatebooks.
Storybookwalksletyoungreadersenjoy astoryandthegreatoutdoors,aspages fromachildren’sbookareprintedand placedindisplaysalongawalkablepath atapark,schoolorneighborhood Check withyourlocallibraryfortheir recommendationofwheretofindthe mostcurrentstorybookwalks.
Getalibrarycard
SeptemberalsohappenstobeNational LibraryCardSign-UpMonth,sothere’s nobettertimetointroduceyour grandchildtothenostalgiaoflibraries Makeaplantovisitthelocallibrary togethereverysooftentocheckout morebooks.
Makebook-themedcrafts
Extendthefunofbooksbeyondthe pages,andmakepuppetsofyour favoritecharacters,bookmarksinspired byyourfavoritestoryordioramasthat showcaseascenefromabook.
ManyBarnes&Noblestoresandother independentbookstores,likeBlueWillow Bookshoplovetohostlocalauthorsfora read-aloudandbooksigning.These eventsofferaspecialandunique opportunityforkidstogettheirbooks signedandburningquestionsanswered
Trytomakesometimeforreadingeven thoughdistancemightkeepyouapart Caribuisavideocallingappthatlets familyandfriendsreadtogether,virtually!
by Christina Katz by Christina Katz
In the reality television age, when contestants are either considered superstars-in-
In the reality television age, when contestants are either considered superstars-inthe-making or deserving of international ridicule, parents may struggle to instill the-making or deserving of international ridicule, parents may struggle to instill basic teamwork principles in their children. So encouraging kids to become basic teamwork principles in their children. So encouraging kids to become members of a team can help them constructively channel their energy and members of a team can help them constructively channel their energy and creativity, while learning about sportsmanship first-hand. Kids can learn new things creativity, while learning about sportsmanship first-hand. Kids can learn new things about themselves through participation in teams of many stripes: sports, about themselves through participation in teams of many sports, leadership, performing arts, robotics, debate, etc. Teams that uphold positive leadership, performing arts, robotics, debate, etc. Teams that uphold positive leadership can evoke skills kids did not even know they possessed. Contributing leadership can evoke kids did not even know they possessed. Contributing willingly to something greater than themselves often increases self-esteem and willingly to something greater than themselves often increases self-esteem and personal pride in participants. personal in participants.
Teamwork means the coordinated efforts of members of a group in the interests of a common cause In order for a team to be successful, the will of the members must converge in support of a shared goal or task A team is composed of individuals, who temporarily release self-interest to focus their energy in pursuit of a desire they could not achieve on their own. The timeline of a team can be short-term or long-term but it's usually for a specific duration Sportsmanship is a word that describes players on any type of team who participate with character and integrity
Teamwork has not gone out of style. In fact, teamwork has never been more important than it is today Sports teams rely on it, and so do schools, businesses, towns, states, countries, and international partnerships Groups of every type can benefit from better teamwork among members from you local PTA to your family's church or temple
Perhaps you are hesitant about your child making a commitment to a team and if so, I don't blame you It's probably a good idea to weigh the pros and cons with your child before joining any team because of the time and focus required Once you decide to go for it, however, never fear The experience will likely challenge and stretch everyone involved Keep these teamwork tips fresh in your mind and your entire family will have a better experience.
1. Commit wisely. Join teams pursuing goals your child is passionate about It's great to be good at more than one thing, but resist the urge to over-commit to too many teams at once. If you and your child try to please every coach at once, you won't be able to please any coaches at all
2 Communicate consistently Conflicts, illnesses, and field trips are bound to happen. Try to manage expectations by communicating schedule conflicts to coaches as early as you can. Other parents may not bother, but you don't want to be one of them
3. Get in the spirit. You have heard that attitude is everything, and nowhere is this saying more relevant than once your child becomes a team member. If you want your child to be a positive contributor, have regular conversations with him about how fortunate he is to be part of such an awesome group.
4 Be an eager learner Coaches love engaged, enthusiastic players Assume your child, no matter how capable, has not yet mastered the entire skill set Skills are an ongoing journey If your child does not have more to learn, than maybe it's time to graduate from the team
5. Contribute your best. We need to ditch the idea that some people are natural born players and others are not Anyone can contribute something to a team if she follows her innate instinct to be generous Discuss the difference between giving whole-heartedly and brown-nosing with your kids so they understand the difference
6. Stay open to constructive criticism. Part of being on a team is responding to criticism Feedback will not likely be given perfectly every time The coach and team administrators are also not perfect Members need to learn to take what is helpful in feedback and try to apply it to the best of their ability without pushback.
7. Bounce back from disappointments . Sitting the bench, getting cast as the understudy, making JV instead of varsity-kids need help finding the value in experiences that don't thrust them immediately into a spotlight Help them find the silver lining, so they can maximize it as they keep growing
8. Cultivate courtesy. Sometimes you have to say, "Good game," when you don't feel that way Coaches expect kids to park their pouting and behave with humility. Increase the odds your kids will be on their best behavior by being impeccable in your behavior, too Cultivate your family's reputation as team players and you will raise good sports
9 Take confusion to the top Misunderstanding? Miscommunication? Miffed for any reason? Wait 24 hours before you fire off that email. Taking out your anger or frustration on the coach or administrators hurts your child's reputation and yours. So compose yourself and ask for help in understanding the situation before you demand heads on a platter
10. Encourage new members. When you and your child became part of the team, you looked to others to learn the ropes Once your rookie becomes a veteran, it's your turn to welcome new members and families. Stick out your hand, introduce yourself, and offer whatever assistance you can There is only one rule: keep your comments constructive. Your little team member and fellow families will thank you for rising above gossip and slander
To the team:
Way to come out strong!
Keep your chins up!
You've got this!
Way to finish strong!
Way to do your best!
To your child:
I am so proud of your efforts. I could tell you did your best
Thank you for being such a good sport. You really came back strong
Your hard work is paying off.
Way to be a supportive teammate
You are growing so much; keep it up
Mantras to memorize:
It's not whether you win or lose; it's knowing you did your best. You'll win some and you'll lose some, but always be a good sport
It's easy to get swept up in the drama, so take a deep breath and just play. Acknowledge your mistakes without being hard on yourself
Be the first one to tell a teammate, "That's okay Shake it off "
Forget your mistakes, forget your record, and just have a good time out there
Celebrate everything you do well while working to improve any weaknesses. Teams are works in progress They are never finished and they are never done.
Don't be fooled by glittery costumes and false eyelashes-competitive dancers are athletes,
Don't be fooled by glittery costumes and false eyelashes-competitive dancers are athletes, who deserve to be taken just as seriously as members of any other team such as soccer, who deserve to be taken just as seriously as members of any other team such as soccer, swimming, or track. Dance has multiple benefits-often more than other sports. And yes, swimming, or track. Dance has multiple benefits-often more than other sports. And yes, dance performed regularly and intensively is both a sport and a multi-sensory art form that dance performed regularly and intensively is both a sport and a multi-sensory art form that may raise your child's self-esteem. may raise your child's self-esteem.
According to the National Registry of Dance Educators, dance provides physical, intellectual, artistic, social and individual benefits that can enrich any dancer's life. If you are considering dance as an activity for your child, you may want to review the benefits, before you balk at the price tag of consistent classes
Unlike many sports which are often seasonal, dance practice typically runs all school year or even year-round Many kids take a variety of sports throughout the year, but dancers tend to take foundational dance classes first and then learn new forms of dance as their skills grow Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Acrobatics, and Hip Hop are the most common forms of dance you will find offered at your local dance studio
When we think of dance, we may think of diva ballerinas or overly meddlesome mothers, but dancers learn many helpful, practical skills that carry over naturally into everyday life. If you visit a few local studios in your area, you will likely find a vibe and set of values that are a good match for your child and family. Here are some of the many benefits of taking consistent dance classes:
1. Listening better. In order to learn, dancers have to hear and absorb verbal instructions from their teachers, often on the fly In the practice room, instruction is offered in a variety of ways, which helps children learn to pay attention before, during, and after learning something new
2. Observing closely. Another way dancers learn is by watching demonstrations Dancing is a multi-sensory skill, so there are many ways to learn and watching closely is an important part of the process, especially for more visual learners
3. Expanding social circles. Dancers can make new friends in dance class and expand their social circles beyond the neighborhood and the classroom Friendships tend to deepen over time and kids who spend a lot of time working on new skills together are likely to form tighter friendships.
4. Growing more fit. We often think of dancers as dainty and delicate but dancers are stronger than you might think Regular dancing increases cardiovascular health, builds muscles, and, over time, increases physical endurance
5. Gaining musicality and rhythm. If you want your child to become more musical, even without practicing an instrument, dance is a good choice The measured movements kids learn in dance help them intuitively understand and adapt to other kinds of rhythms in life
6. Building strength. In my daughter's 5 grade classroom, a petite veteran competitive dancer routinely beat the football players at arm wrestling Dancers must be strong no matter what their size because they need core strength as well as individual muscle strength to leap, turn and twist without injury th
7. Becoming more flexible. Don't worry if your child is not necessarily flexible or agile before beginning dance. Flexibility is something that is approached incrementally as a dancer learns and grows After a few years of stretching and flexing, any dancer can become more limber
8. Focusing on following through. If your child has trouble concentrating for periods of time, dance might be a good way to build this skill Because dance is kinesthetic as well as musical and rhythmic, children who have trouble sitting still in school can concentrate more easily while learning a complete dance movement, which takes considerable concentration, focus and practice.
9. Responding to feedback. Dancers receive ongoing feedback from instructors The onus is on them to received feedback as graciously as they can and apply it to their routines so they can improve This teaches responsiveness and collaboration instead of defensiveness and oversensitivity.
10. Practicing poise. Even if your child often trips or bumps into things, dance can cure the curse of klutziness Poise in the practice room will eventually translate into increased body awareness and better motor control outside the studio, as well.
11 Inspiring self-discipline So many situations in life require us to be able to train ourselves to do things to the best of our ability By teaching mastery of a routine through practice, dancers learn how to aim for a goal and reach it Repeated over time, this ability to get things accomplished can be applied to any task or healthy habit.
12 Finding opportunities for selfexpression. Although dance is rarely verbal and routines are often choreographed, dancers express themselves artistically through movement, agility, showmanship, poise, and by letting their personalities shine through Some dances offer a variety of roles and dancers may either be cast in a role or offered a solo based on ability and personality
13. Test-driving commitment. Dancers earn dividends on what they invest When your dancer commits consistently and fully, the payoff is great Halfhearted or lax engagement typically yields poorer results
14. Increasing confidence. Confidence comes from doing It's one thing to watch a dance recital It's quite another to perform in one Dance is multi-sensory, so don't be surprised if it boosts your child's confidence in ways you may not anticipate
15. Acquiring excellent posture. Body language experts have proven that by changing our posture, we can change our attitude and our feelings. Dancers practice excellent posture, which has both short and long-term benefits physiologically and emotionally
16. Improving body awareness. Dancers' bodies come in all shapes and sizes and dancers learn that an active, healthy body helps you accomplish your objectives with greater ease no matter what size you are. Dancers learn first-hand the benefits of eating healthy and fueling their bodies
17. Teaching teamwork Dancers often literally depend on each other to lift each other up, to hold each other up, and to work in unison to make a whole By working hard together and learning to trust each other, dancers learn to trust themselves in a group.
18. Emphasizing a positive attitude. When you smile, the whole world smiles with you, so the saying goes Like posture, tests have shown that smiling makes you feel better whether you want to feel better or not The dance studio is a place where your child is reminded to put a best face forward
19. Reducing stress. Life gets bumpy sometimes, even for kids Dancers who are experiencing stress in life outside the studio, may find that the consistency, focus, and health benefits of dance counterbalance negative effects of any stress in their personal lives Children experiencing stress typically benefit from expressive outlets for their considerable energy.
20 Respecting instructors Parents do not typically coach or volunteer in dance classes Most instructors are trained and studios expect kids to be respectful towards their teachers Dancers who treat instructors with admiration tend to get more out of the process than dancers who behave in a disrespectful manner or act out in class, just like in real life.
o r n o t s c h o o l o r n o t s c h o o l
By Kimberly Blaker
Your child wakes up with a sore throat and you begin an internal debate of whether to keep your child home or send them to school
On one hand, you do not want your child to struggle through the school day because they don’t feel well but, on the other hand, having your child catch up on school work and taking a day off of work yourself can be difficult if your child feels fine after getting their day started. How is a parent to know when it’s best to keep your child home to rest and reduce the risk of spreading illness to other kids? Let’s look at some common symptoms kids have and when it’s ok to go to school and when it’s best to stay home and recuperate
If your child wakes up with a fever over 101 degrees then they should stay home from school Giving ibuprofen or acetaminophen will help bring your child’s fever down but the temperature should be taken prior to medicine given to determine if your child should go to school that day or not A child with a fever is most likely contagious so they should stay home.
If your child has a mild sore throat due to allergies or cold symptoms then they are most likely well enough to attend school If the sore throat is severe it could be strep throat and you should take your child to a doctor to be tested. If your child tests positive for strep throat, they should be on antibiotics for 24 hours before returning to school to avoid spreading illness
Pink eye is extremely contagious If your child has yellow/green discharge coming out of their eye or the white of the eye is a pink color then your child should stay home until they have seen a doctor Most schools will require a note from a doctor saying the child is well enough to return to school or that the child take antibiotic eye drops for 24 hours before attending school
If your child wakes with a headache but does not have a fever it is most likely safe to send them to school. However, if your child is excessively tired or has other symptoms besides just a mild headache it is possible they are coming down with something and it might be best to stay home and rest.
If your child has a rash from an unknown source keep them home until you are able to see a doctor to determine what the cause is Rashes can be caused by many things and some of them are contagious. If you know the cause of your child’s rash such as ringworm or impetigo, use the appropriate measures to ensure it doesn’t spread
If your child has ear pain and no other symptoms, they are not contagious and can technically go to school If the ear pain is causing discomfort, loss of sleep, or a fever, staying home to recuperate may be the best choice
If your child is having diarrhea or is vomiting, they will need to take the day off of school Not only are they contagious but they probably aren’t up for their usual routine anyway
Symptom - Cold symptoms
If your child has mild cold symptoms such as clear runny nose, mild sore throat, and mild fatigue then they are allowed to attend school Keep in mind that while cold symptoms don’t affect your ability to participate in normal activities, it doesn’t mean that they are not contagious. Take care to practice frequent hand washing, cover that cough, and get dirty tissues in the trash can
You cannot keep your kids home from school and activities every time they cough but kids with a severe cough should stay home from school Likewise, children who are experiencing shortness of breath or wheezing should stay home and see the family doctor
When it comes to the decision of whether to keep your child home or send them to school, use common sense If you saw another child with the same symptoms at school would you want them to be around your healthy child? If your child has extreme fatigue or generally feels unwell, it might be the sign of something to come and it may be best to rest at home Usually, when it comes to stopping the spread of illness, it’s best to be safe than sorry. When in doubt, keep your child home until they are back to their normal, active self
by sarah lyons by sarah lyons
Before becoming a parent, the idea of disciplining children seemed fairly straightforward. It follows logic that if you set limits, use consistency, and respond firmly, but lovingly, children will learn to correct their behavior. As I became a more experienced mother, I quickly learned that traditional methods of discipline, such as time out, do not work with every child, every time. Thinking outside of the traditional methods of discipline and trying new and creative consequences may improve behavior.
Buy it back -
Toys left on the floor after the designated pickup time will be confiscated by a parent Children will be allowed to buy back each item for $1.
(www notconsumed com) If the children are not earning an allowance, they may do something extra around the house to earn the item back.
Practice makes perfect -
When chores aren’t done to the parent’s standards, have kids “practice” doing it over and over again until they become an expert (www imom com)
faces -
“If siblings were fighting, they had to make five faces at each other. They would end up laughing and forget what they were fighting about to begin with ” says Marianne Lincoln, mother of five
Team spirit -
Siblings who fight can also be assigned projects or chores to work on as a team. By the end of the day, they will have learned to work together
Open door policy -
If your teen slams the bedroom door when angry, take away the privilege of privacy and remove the door for a week.
Donations -
If your kids consistently leave clothing on the floor, collect it for donation to a local charity If they decide they aren’t ready to donate it yet , have them pay you what it would cost them to buy it from a thrift store.
(www parenting com)
Safety first -
It is not safe to drive when people are shouting and making a commotion in the car If the kids are too rowdy, pull the car over and wait silently until they are quiet
Take time -
If your child is dawdling and makes everyone late, have them sit out of the fun when you arrive for the same amount of time they wasted at home
Early to bed -
If the child has a bad attitude and you suspect it’s because they are not getting enough sleep, move up bedtime by 5 minutes each time you need to remind them to improve their behavior
Kid’s choice -
When children misbehave, try allowing them to choose their own consequence This method gives them control over their fate, teaches them to think about their actions in the future, and makes imposing the consequence easier
Stand alone -
If the child will not stop tipping his chair at dinner, simply take the chair away and have him stand while he eats.
(www notconsumed com)
Teach respect -
“I have a friend that has her children wash the other’s feet if they are being disrespectful to each other ” says Shannon, mom of three.
With some patience, a sense of humor, and some creativity, parents can use the art of creative consequences to teach their children in a fresh and memorable way that will have lasting results.
BY LAMBERT WANG
It’s important that cat ownership not be taken lightly, especially for families with children - it’s a big responsibility.
To ensure that parents aren’t stuck with the brunt of the work once the excitement has worn off, Cat Person co-founder, Lambert Wang -- who fostered over a dozen cats throughout years of volunteer work -- has compiled some tips for raising a responsible and mature pet owner:
Give your cat time to acclimate to its new environment. Help your kids practice patience when first welcoming a new family member. Help them understand that it might take a while for their new pet to adjust and feel comfortable. Sometimes it also helps to keep them in their own room for a few days. Start slow!
Schedule pet playtime. Playtime can be a lot of fun for both new cats and kids, but should always be supervised by an adult to ensure that no one is getting too rough. Parents should be ready to step in and show how to gently play with a new pet and enforce breaks as needed. Set expectations for pet responsibilities in the house. Talk about and even write down all of the responsibilities that will come with cat ownership and enforce them as you would with any other household chores. Make sure your kids understand that the fun of playing with a new cat also comes with regular feeding, litter box changes and more.
Have adults handle the feeding at first. This can help you to evaluate whether your new pet is prone to resource guarding and to keep an eye out for any food intolerance or other considerations.
Have your children contribute financially. Of course, it can be a small portion of their weekly allowance or birthday money each year but it’s important to start demonstrating that pet ownership can be costly - but hopefully they will see that it is well worth the sacrifices!
Baby Classical Music by Little Genius Books
Introduces the youngest music lovers to famous composers with whimsical illustrations and 6 magical sound buttons to experience the joy of their music!
Jan Brett’s The Nutcracker by Jan Brett (Putnam Books)
When Marie and her brother Fritz receive a special Christmas nutcracker from their uncle, Marie immediately feels something magical "He looks like a real boy," she mused “A real boy with a secret, who came from far away. ”
And There Was Music by Marta Pantaleo (Eerdman’s Books)
Music is everywhere--can you hear it around you? Music might comfort you, or it might make you cry Even if someone doesn’t know your language, they can still understand you There are sounds to celebrate an important day and sounds to help us find courage, strength, and hope
The Story Orchestra: Hansel &Gretel illus. By Jessica Courtney Tickle (Frances Lincoln LTD)
Discover the enchanting magic of Hansel and Gretel in this musical reimagining of Humperdinck’;s most famous suites - push the button in each scene to hear the vivid sound of an orchestra playing from Humperdinck’s score
Artists Who Changed Entertainment by James Buckley Jr (Sourcebooks)
While these creatives came from different backgrounds and overcame unique struggles, they had one thing in common: they would not take “You can’t “ for an answer With a don’t-give-up attitude, these fearless firsts fought for what they believed in and created a better artistic world
Who is Lin-Manuel Miranda?
By Elijah Matos (Penguin Workshop)
Born in New York to Puerto Rican parents, Lin-Manuel Miranda had a passion for the arts and creativity from a young age He participated in theater as a child and wrote his first Broadway musical, In the Heights, while he was still in college That show won him his first Tony Award for Best Musical!
The Order of Things by Kaija Langley (Nancy Paulsen Books)
Eleven-year-old April Jackson loves playing the drums, almost as much as she loves her best friend, Zee, a violin prodigy. They both dream of becoming professional musicians one day When Zee starts attending a new school that will nurture his talent, April decides it’s time for her to pursue her dreams, too
Made Glorious by Lindsay Eager (Candlewick Press)
In a vicious, delicious contemporary novel inspired by Shakespeare’s Richard III, the lauded author of The Family Fortuna lifts the curtain on a high school thespian who’ll stop at nothing to land the lead
by Sarah Lyons
"Pet ownership can bring joy and happiness to any home"
For children with special needs, particularly for children with sensory processing disorder, autism, ADHD, and social or behavioral issues, adopting a domesticated pet can provide wonderful benefits. Here are some great reasons to consider adding a pet to your family.
Helps grow social skills
Kids who spend time playing with a pet typically enjoy interacting with people more than kids who don’t own a pet. They also learn to develop skills such as interpreting nonverbal cues and trust. Owning a pet can also encourage empathy towards animals and humans alike.
Less Stress
Having a furry friend to play with, pet, and cuddle can lower stress and elevate mood. Stroking a pet’s soft fur can have a calming effect on people.”When my daughter is crying, our cat will come running and snuggle up to her.” says Katlyn Purkapile, Edgerton mom of three. “It has been amazing to see the change it has made with her. My daughter starts petting her and calms down quicker than any other techniques we have tried. It's a really special relationship.”
Per a study done by Frontiers in Psychology, people who spend time with a pet on a regular basis have lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, and less stress. Patients that were visited by a service animal while in the hospital also reported less pain.
Helps develop life skills
Kids who have the opportunity to care for a pet will also develop important life skills such as time management, responsibility, and understand the importance of schedule for feeding, walking, and cleaning their pet.
Kids who crave stability and routine will benefit from having a pet in their lives. Pets can provide a different type of stability that they may not get from peers or family members. “My 8 year old has ADHD. We recently got him a kitten and he sits still and is calm with her for long periods of time.” says Olathe mom, Pricella Edwards. “I believe it helps him.”
Many parents have found that having their pet near them during virtual learning or while doing homework helps the child stay calm and focused.
“My 11 year old has anxiety and depression. For her birthday she received a guinea pig. Lilly, the guinea pig has been a game changer.” says Tiffany Nolan, mom of five. “Virtual schooling was especially difficult for her. Suggesting she snuggle Lilly will dramatically improve her mood and demeanor. For her (and for us) it has had a huge positive impact.”
Pets are a great addition to any family but can be a huge help to kids with special needs.
Before adopting a pet, consider what type of animal would best fit your lifestyle, space, and budget. “It’s important to do your research and get a pet that will work for your family.” says Becky Smith, Olathe mom. “I was very careful about getting an older cat with a calm demeanor to best get along with my kids.”
Ask your child for their input and let them help choose what type of pet they would like to join the family. Chances are your new pet will have a positive impact on everyone in your household.
By Sandi Schwartz
With all the technology during the past year or so, kids could use a much-needed mindfulness break away from their screens Fortunately, we have many effective tools to help our children practice mindfulness, such as yoga
Yoga offers so many incredible benefits to our children including a time for inner focus, a way to connect to their bodies, a retreat from the pressures and stress of daily life, and even an opportunity to enjoy a bit of silliness to lighten the moment Studies in recent years have shown how yoga can reduce stress and anxiety and boost mood Children need relaxing breaks like yoga to help keep them happy and balanced
When we tie in nature with yoga, the benefits are even more impressive
Whether you practice yoga together at home as a family or look for children’s yoga classes in your community or online, the important thing is to make sure that it is fun We know that kids love animals Whether they are learning animal sounds as a toddler, reading stories about animal characters, enjoying watching animals at the zoo, or spending time with a lovable pet, animals bring tons of joy to most children
We can also incorporate fun animal themes into their
such as lion , downward
Giselle Shardlow, childrens author and founder of Kids Yoga Stories, develops books, card decks, posters, games, and teaching resources for children to explore yoga
To make yoga really enjoyable for kids, she creates yoga poses based on the movements of animals
For example, she has a set of yoga pose cards about animals with tails that include the following:
Stingray (Warrior 3 Pose)
Scorpion (Dancer’s Pose)
Zebra (Triangle Forward Bend)
Kangaroo (Chair Pose)
Chipmunk (Squat Pose)
She finds that kids relate more to the names and images of animals than the traditional yoga pose names This also opens the door for children to develop their own yoga moves based on their experiences in nature, which helps them be in tune with nature through their body, senses, and breath
You can find all of her animal yoga pose cards at Kids Yoga Stories There are tons of themes to choose from!
The other terrific part about incorporating animals into our children’s yoga routine is that it helps them connect to nature, which can improve their overall well-being Even better, if they can practice these yoga moves outdoors, they will reap the incredible healing benefits of nature
According to mothernatured com, doing yoga outdoors helps children build animal empathy, strengthen their connection to their surrounding environment, enhance their knowledge of the natural world, and stimulate their senses
To learn more about animal yoga poses for your family, check out these adorable books:
Animals At the Seashore and Yoga Animals In The Forest by Christian Kerr
You Are a Lion!: And Other Fun Yoga Poses by Taeeun
BY CHERYL MAGUIRE
When I became of mom of boy/girl twins I had twice as much laundry, diapers and crying as my mom friends of singletons. What I didn’t know at the time was that I also had twice as much Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). There were plenty of clues along the way but my son didn’t get diagnosed until age 8 and his twin sister until age 15 Unfortunately their gender differences might be one of the main reasons why there is a seven year variance between the time that they were diagnosed.
Even though I used to be a counselor for teens who had ADHD, it’s different when your own kids have the disorder. My former role definitely helped me understand terms and techniques but I still had to figure out what worked best for our family. My twins just graduated from high school and here’s what we found helpful to be successful during the past four years:
Routines are essential.
The biggest issue that both of my twins have in relation to ADHD is forgetting things. On more than one occasion they would spend hours completing a project using posterboard or creating a 3D model only to forget it at home. This might not make sense to someone who doesn’t have ADHD but for those who do I’m sure you can relate.
The best way to fix this issue is to have routines and schedules so that the behaviors become habits rather than memory. For example, they would back their bags the night before going to school and then place it by the front door. This way they can see it before they leave the house and remember to take it Next to their bag would be any sports equipment like a tennis racket and water bottle.
External reminders.
Another helpful tip is to use technology Let’s face it—their phone is like a third appendage that they never seem to lose! So using it is a great way to help them. There are plenty of apps on there that can help them with their ADHD but the easiest technique is to use the reminder alerts. Anytime they say, “I forgot” I respond with, “Then next time set up a reminder alert on your phone.” It’s also a lot easier for all of us than having me nag them which I also remind them is the alternative.
At the beginning of the school year, I always made a point to speak with all of their teachers and offered them my cell phone and email to open the lines of communication. When I talked with them we discussed what helped my kids to learn in previous years like a seat in the front row or visual pictures. I also let the teachers know that they have ADHD and truly care about school even though it might seem like they are not paying attention at times. Furthermore, I tell them that if their grades are slipping or they aren’t handing in their assignments that they should contact me so we can figure out what’s causing the problem If they are having trouble paying attention it tends to “snowball” without them realizing it. If we can prevent the avalanche from occurring then everyone has a much better school year
If your child has ADHD they may qualify for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 plan. To qualify for an IEP usually your child would need to have a learning disability diagnosis along with the ADHD but sometimes you could qualify for one with only an ADHD diagnosis. Students on an IEP would receive special education services whereas students on a 504 plan only have regular education services On both plans though you can receive accommodations for ADHD. Some common ones are preferential seating, testing in a distraction free setting and additional time on tests or homework.
My daughter did not qualify for either plan but that’s where the communication with the teachers can be helpful. Most teachers want their students to be successful so even if they don’t have an official plan they can work with the student to make sure they are learning in a suitable environment.
It’s not worth arguing over a messy room
One aspect of having ADHD can result in being disorganized or messy My son is actually organized and neat for the most part but my daughter is a whole other story. I even wrote a few articles about it as a form of therapysince I’m an extremely neat and organized person Besides getting some free therapy, what I learned after writing all these articles is that it’s not worth arguing over a messy room arguing never solved anything and only caused a rift in our relationship. There are many ways you can handle it. I mostly use humor by making comments like, “Is this a science experiment?” And yes she did laugh when I asked. Or probably the most effective method is keeping the door to her room always closed
Sleep, diet and exercise are more important than you realize. My twins had to figure this one out for themselves but I did often point it out for them. If they were having a hard time paying attention I might ask, “What time did you go to sleep last night?” Or if they were struggling to focus on their homework I might ask, “What did you eat for dinner?” They also both enjoy exercising by being on a sports team or strength training on their own. They found that it helps to release some of that energy they had to use all day to focus.
Teach them how to be an advocate for themselves.
When you have ADHD you need to learn how to be an advocate for yourself. My son really struggled with this when he was younger but slowly learned how to advocate for accommodations that helped him to be successful During his senior year one of his teachers told me that he asked her, “Can I please finish this project after school since I’m having trouble focusing right now?” I had tears in my eyes hearing this, knowing that he would have never done this even a year ago.
When you are a mom, it’s hard to figure out when to let them walk to the bus stop on their own or when to let them stay home alone. But when your kid has a disability it’s even harder to figure out that fine line of when to help them or when to let them try it own their own You watch them struggle so much, more than your other kid without a disability, that sometimes you just want to make it easier for them by bringing them that forgotten Chromebook In the end though when they are able to advocate for themselves it’s the greatest gift that you can give to both of you.
Strategies to Curtail Bullying Behaviors
When being bullied: Walk away. Find an adult. Say “Stop, I don’t like it ”
N U A R Y 2 0 2 5
1 Open Museum Labor Day
The museums of Fine Arts, Bayou Bend, and Rienzi usually closed on Monday are open on Labor Day for the long weekend
All ages. Adult 19+ $24.00, senior 65+ $20 00, youth 13-18 $20 00, child 12free www mfah org
Bingo Nights at Galveston Island Brewing
Join us for Bingo Mondays at Galveston Island Brewing, from 5:30-7:30PM in the brewhouse Prizes every round and fun for the whole family Play is come and go Get here when you can and leave when you need to Kitchen open daily until 8pm.
All ages 5:30-7:30 pm Free www.galvestonislandbrewing.com
Labor Day Foam Party
Bring out the kiddos for our family-fun event Labor Day Foam Party on Skylawn, our rooftop park! We'll have multiple piña colada scented Foam Machines, family-friendly music and more. See you there.
All ages 11 am-2 pm $5 / person www.posthtx.com
Blooming Wonders
Step into a digital garden where art, technology, and nature converge in Blooming Wonders, now in Houston! This immersive exhibition, where pixels bloom into vivid floral imagery, invites you to experience nature in a whole new light Through stunning, highresolution projections and interactive visuals, Blooming Wonders envelops you in dynamic dreamscapes of vibrant blossoms that come to life before your eyes with bursting color, movement, and enchantment
All ages 12- 7 pm Adult $30, child 12 www artechouse com
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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
Great Storm Talk & Tour
During the month of September, the Galveston County Museum and Spooky Galveston offer an enhanced Great Storm Talk and Tour that features the only-known inquest book from the 1900 Storm The tour starts at the Galveston County Museum where you will see the historic ledger and personal items collected by the Justice of the Peace in hopes loved ones would help identify those lost Then, a guide will take you around town to see sites related to the storm
All ages. 9-11 am. Adult $40, 12- $20. www.galvestoncountyhistory.org
Learn Wild! Homeschool ProgramsSaving Seas: Marine Conservation Come to Moody Gardens each month for exciting focus theme-related education activities with a corresponding attraction! These programs have been created for home school families/groups of all grade levels
All ages 10am-12:30 pm Free www moodygardens com
3 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 www.pct3.com/MBG
tranquil Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern. Offered in collaboration with Union is Creation, this meditation series will feature the use of singing bowls and wind chimes to encourage mindfulness and connectivity
Guests should bring their own cushions or mats and water only in a non-glass container No food or non-water drinks are allowed inside the Cistern. Sound Healing Meditation can be loud for those with sensitive hearing
Adult $20 10-10:45am every Saturday & Sunday, Wednesday 66:45 pm Also Sept 7, 13, 14, 21, 24, 27 & 28 buffalobayou.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 6:30-8 pm Every Wednesday www.buffalobayou.org
Nature Story Time
This is a free, drop-in program
Preschoolers and their caregivers join us on Wednesday afternoons for nature stories, live animals, touchable specimens, and a simple craft
Ages 2-5 4-4:30 pm Free Every Wednesday www.naturediscoverycenter.org
Monarch Mayhem
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While playing a live-action board game, explore and learn about the resources and hazards that Monarch butterflies encounter on their amazing long-distance journeys
Ages 5+. Registration required. Meet inside the Mercer Visitor Center Ages 5+ 10-11am Free www pct3 com/MBG
September 2025
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 Free 9:30a Every Thursday www bluewillowbookshop com
First Thursday at the Bryan
The first Thursday of the month from 4 to 7 p.m. in our sculpture garden patio, enjoy a curated selection of wines, enjoy the music of local Galvestonian talent and shop at our Museum Store
Adult 4-7 pm Free www thebryanmuseum org
StoryTime with Ms. Maria Ms Maria, who will enchant the children with lively songs, engaging stories, and a delightful small art project
7-. 10-11am. Free. www.centralgreenpark.com
Garden Cruisin’ 5
Up to 4 can board the Mercer cart for a one-hour leisurely tour through the gardens where you’ll experience the beauty and tranquility that thousands of plants, flowers, and trees can provide
All ages 8-9 am & 9:15-10:15 am Free Every Friday www pct3 com/MBG
MFAH Playdate
Children 4 and younger, and their adult caregivers, are invited to enjoy a multi-sensory experience in the galleries with songs, stories, games, and activities
11:30a-12:30p Ages 4- $10 / person Every Friday www.mfah.org
Coastal Cowboys Exhibit
The Heritage Society is proud to present Coastal Cowboys, a traveling exhibition from The Bryan Museum in Galveston, Texas It unveils the overlooked saga of Texas’s Gulf Coast cowboys and their horses in both the pre, and post-Civil War eras This groundbreaking show sheds light on a network of Texas coastal ranches that flourished long before Texas found its place on the map, revealing how these cowboys forged a distinct way of life amid sand, salt, and sea
All ages 10am-4pm Free www heritagesociety org
If you have always wanted to get into bird watching but you have never picked up a pair of binoculars, this class is for you! Join us for an introduction to birding, including how to choose binoculars and where to find them, how to read a field guide, and where to find birds in Houston Weather permitting, we’ll also go out on the trails to practice real birding basics
Ages 12+ 9:30-11:30am Member $22, non-member $37 www houstonarboretum org
Bayou Discovery Walking Tour
Head to the heart of downtown to discover the history of Buffalo Bayou and Houston!
This engaging walking tour recounts / explores the development of the city we know today through an exploration of architecture, ecology, public art, and more Experience fascinating historic buildings, witness the formation of a new Mexican Free-tailed Bat colony, and uncover a few local secrets all along the unique bayou trails winding through downtown Houston
Beginning Birding 7
All ages 9-10:30 am Ages 12+ $5, 12- free www buffalobayou org
First Saturday Arts Market
Featuring dozens of visual artists each month showcasing their work in the Historic Houston Heights Visitors will find friendly artists with paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and many more popular art mediums There is always a popular food truck on site and local singer/songwriters can often be found providing entertainment at the market
All ages 11am-6pm Free 540 W 19th firstsaturdayartsmarket.com/abo ut
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 Saturday www levyparkhouston org
Young Makers Market
The second edition of the Young Makers Market is a celebration of creativity, entrepreneurship, and community spirit, showcasing over 40 talented young artists from The Woodlands and Montgomery County This unique one-day mini-arts festival offers the community a special opportunity to explore and purchase original artworks created by local students from grades 3 to 12
All ages 10 am – 2 pm Free www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org
Coffee and Cars
Come out and enjoy an amazing display of machines at POST! Every first Saturday of the month, Coffee and Cars will be hosted in our East Parking Lot with 100’s of luxury and exotic vehicles In addition to a featured section of curated cars, they are also bringing back an OPEN SECTION for anyone to come display their incredible machines!
All ages 9-11 am Free www.posthtx.com
Kidz BOP LIVE Certified BOP Tour
Get ready for an unforgettable family-friendly concert as KIDZ BOP LIVE: The Certified BOP Tour takes over The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion!
This high-energy show brings today’s biggest hits to life, performed by the talented KIDZ BOP Kids with exciting choreography, cool special effects, and non-stop fun Perfect for kids, parents, and everyone in between, this interactive experience will have the whole family singing and dancing along to their favorite songs Don't miss out on the ultimate live music event made just for kids!
All ages 4-6 pm $39 50+ www.woodlandscenter.org
The Gold Rush
Celebrate the centenary of Charlie Chaplin’s comedic masterwork about a prospector’s search for fortune in the Klondike, in a new 4K restored version Cementing the iconic status of Chaplin and his Little Tramp character, The Gold Rush was shot partly on location in the Sierra Nevada, with such timeless gags as the dance of the dinner rolls and the meal of boiled shoe leather Featuring epic scenes with hundreds of extras and a real bear filmed in the Californian mountains, All ages Saturday 7-8:45pm, Sunday 5-6:45pm $9 general admission; $7 MFAH members, students with ID, seniors (65+) www.mfah.org
Farmers Market on Navigation
Unique among Houston’s farmers markets, the East End Farmers Market blends sights and sounds, cuisine and culture to create an experience that is rooted in one of Houston’s most historic communities
All ages 10am-2pm Free Every Sunday eastendhouston.com/market
Friendswood
3001 W Bay Area Blvd
Woodlands 11900 Crane Brook Dr
Woodlands 10601 Falconwing Dr wwwbbmacademycom
At Big Blue Marble Academy, we understand what developing minds need to be successful in preschool and in life Research shows that the first five years of a child’s life are transformative for growing children’s minds and developing their social-emotional skills Whether you’re looking for early care, daycare, preschool, or after-school care, we’ve designed our programs around what your child needs for their age and stage of development
At the core of our curriculum is a focus on global education, which enhances children’s perspectives and understanding of the world outside their community We teach children the importance of giving back and helping others in need through hands-on activities and “Heart Projects” We provide the structure children need, while also encouraging their natural curiosity and love of learning Big Blue Marble Academy provides a true home away from home for your child
Moody Gardens 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 Saturday 10 AM – 8 PM, Sunday 10 AM - 3 PM, $25/person www.moodygardens.com
Join us for a new program that brings children closer to nature and gardening through educational programming and stimulating, hands-on experiences Topics vary each month, but be ready for both indoor and outdoor fun!
Ages 4-7 10-11 am Free www.pct3.com/MBG
Tyke Hikes
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!
18 mo-4 yo 9:30-10:15 am, 10:30-11:15 am $7 / person Also Sept 15 & 22 www.houstonarboretum.org
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Are you raising a Curious Kid? Join us at the Center where we’ll explore, ask, discover, and more in our pre-K science program! Our children’s programs feature science-rich, weekly, stand-alone classes that offer you the flexibility to sign-up for individual classes that meet your hectic schedules or for specific topics that inspire your children Curious Kids lessons incorporate live animals, plants, natural objects, crafts, puppets and/or models, stories, and nature walks
Ages 3-5 yo 10-11:30 am Members $15, non-members $20 Every Tuesday www.naturediscoverycenter.org
A Good Yarn audiobook and yarn crafts club will now meet every month! The day of the week will continue to vary We will select a book that is in paperback AND audiobook for discussion This month’s book The Magician of Tiger Castle Adults Free 7-8 pm www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Tahitian Tuesday
Introducing Tahitian Tuesday to Skylawn, hosted by South Seas Productions, Houston's premier Polynesian entertainment group & dance school! This is a free, high-energy class open to all ages and skill levels that blends fun cardio with the beauty of Tahitian dance You'll get to learn the fundamental steps, technique, and cultural history while moving to the vibrant rhythms of the islands Whether you're looking for a great workout, a cultural experience, or just a fun way to spend your Tuesday, join and dance your way to the South Seas!
All ages 7-8pm Free wwwposthtx com
Lunch and Learn "Everything
Orchids"
Do you love orchids but need to know the tricks to keep them blooming? Brandie Hill with Orchid Express and Leasing is here to help! Join us and learn from an expert about how to encourage vigorous growth and production from your orchids Topics will include lighting needs, fertilization, transplanting, potting mix , and more!
Ages 16+ 12-2 pm Free www.pct3.com/MBG
Hatchlings
Hatchlings is a nourishing, 100% outdoor play program for young children and their caregivers Opportunities for unstructured play and investigation in nature have been designed to be accessible to infants and toddlers up to 24 months old Stories, messy play with natural materials (water, dirt, mud, sticks, leaves), and sensory exploration are part of every gathering Hatchlings is also for you – a space to meet others, share experiences, and build a supportive community while helping your child develop essential skills for growth.
All ages 10-11 am Free Also the 17 & 24 th th www.houstonarboretum.org
This is an all-levels yoga flow for beginners to experts that will help you build strength and mobility The Vinyasa flow is set to the beat of the latest top 40 and throwback favorites
Adults 7 pm Wednesdays & 8 am Fridays Free www levyparkhouston org
Children’s BINGO
Bring the kiddos and join our Levy Park team for Children’s Bingo! This 30minute program is a fun way for children to practice their letters and numbers while earning prizes Levy Park provides the Bingo cards, markers, and prizes B-I-N-G-O!
Ages 4 to 12 4:30p Free Every Thursday www.levyparkhouston.org
Family Free Night at Galveston Children's Museum
Sometimes the best things in life are FREE and this is one of those times! Bring the whole crew for an evening packed with hands-on play, sidesplitting giggles, and memory-making magic From curious minds to busy hands, there’s something for everyone to explore!
Let’s face it family time is priceless and tonight, admission is too All ages 4-7 pm Free www.galvestoncm.org/family-freenight
Tipsy Terrarium
Create your own mason jar terrarium with step-by-step guidance from Terrarium Plant House at Lyric Market Enjoy a cocktail while you craft, and take home your mini garden masterpiece Ages 21+. 6-8 pm. $68. app.acuityscheduling.com
Brew at the Zoo
Tap into your wild side at Brew at the Zoo, our fall adults-only event! Experience a memorable evening at the Zoo after hours with even MOREdrink options like your favorite craft ale, hard seltzer, cider, or canned cocktail This event makes for the perfect date night or outing with friends
Ages 21+ $39+ 6:30- 10 pm www.houstonzoo.org
Happy Hour Fridays at the MFAH Happy Hour happens on Fridays! Meet your friends at the MFAH for the best night of the week Explore the campus, visit the galleries, and get a drink at the bar (payment by credit card only) Happy Hour takes place in the Arrival Hall on the lower level of the Kinder Building and museum admission is required Adult 5-9 pm Free, with Museum admission. Also September 5, 19 & 26. www.mfah.org/calendar/happy-hour
Trail mix
Features live music, magic, and more! Join us trailside as Andy Roo takes you on an adventure through the AndyRooniverse along with magicians Dave and Jake Rangel Enjoy unique hands-on pop-ups and giveaways to amp up the fun!
All ages 10a-11a Free www.themkt.com
Birding 101
Migration season is just around the corner, so come out and learn tips on how to quickly identify local and migratory birds. Led by longtime birder and photographer Paul Gregg At the end of the class we will have short outdoor practiical to practice and discuss our new skills
Ages 12+ 9-11 am Free www pct3 com/MBG
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 Adults 8-10am Free www houstonarboretum org
Going Batty!
Did you know that bats are the pollinators of the tequila agave? Enjoy a delicious tequila popsicle as you listen to a local bat expert discuss the important role of bats in our ecosystem as pest control, seed dispersers, and pollinators Then go on a bat hike and use special detectors to listen to bat sonar over the Arboretum
Ages 21+ 6-8 pm $37 member / $52 nonmember houstonarboretum org
Nature Story Time
This is a free, drop-in program Preschoolers and their caregivers join us on Wednesday afternoons for nature stories, live animals, touchable specimens, and a simple craft Ages 2-5 4-4:30 pm Free Every Wednesday www.naturediscoverycenter.org
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Join us in kick-starting a celebration of Hispanic heritage! Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing, and so are the performances, crafts and much more!
All ages 9am-5pm $19 95 / person www cmhouston org
Silent Reading Party
The silent reading party will officially start at 3:00 with time to mix, mingle and browse Silent reading will take place from 3:30-4:30 and we will wrap up with chat and time to shop from 4:30-5:00 We'll plan to wrap up the party at 5pm Come pick up a new book, read a few chapters, and maybe even meet a new book buddy.
Adults Free 3-5 pm www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Hispanic Heritage Celebration funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance Join us in kick-starting a celebration of Hispanic heritage! Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing, and so are the performances, crafts and much more!
All ages 9am-5pm $19 95 Cmhouston.org
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This new program highlights nature’s mess makers with classroom lessons about the biology and behavior of animals (and sometimes plants) that are known to make messes These messes found in nature will serve as inspiration for the messes we make together outside at the pavilions after our lesson.
Ages 3-7 10-11:15 am Free www.naturediscoverycenter.org
Little Artists
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
Galveston Sandcastle Festival
Sand Sculptures, Live Music, Food Trucks, and a Full Weekend on the Beach Every summer in Galveston, experience 25+ teams competing to win the prestigious Golden Bucket Award
All ages. 10am-9pm. Saturday $15, Sunday $10, Children 12- free architecturehouston.org
Dance and Move with Young Audiences of Houston
Participants will learn to combine elements in dance, music, and theatre while expressing themselves through creative movement We will use the fundamentals of dance to focus on storytelling while building skills in selfawareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. All ages 1-1:30 pm Free Also September 26 www levyparkhouston org
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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!
Ages 6- 10-11 am Free www.centralgreenpark.com
Reclaimed Creations
Explore the incredible sculptures created by artist Sayaka Ganz, from discarded plastic, while learning about the science of plastic and its impact on our world
All ages 10 am-4 pm $10 / person thehealthmuseum.org
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Woman’s Restorative Hike
This beginner-friendly, one-hour hike through Mercer's gardens and forest is for those who believe in the restorative power that nature has on the mind, body and spirit For women 18 and older
Adult 8-9 am Free www.pct3.com/MBG
September 2025
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
Coffee Cake Book Club
The Faculty Lounge: A Novel, by the acclaimed author of Moxie, a funny, bighearted adult debut that is at once an ode to educators, a timely glimpse at today’s pressing school issues, and a tender character study, following a sprawling cast of teachers, administrators, and staff at a Texas high school
Adults Free 11am-12pm www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Wholeness is a myth
Sawyer Yards is proud to present a juried exhibition curated by artist and juror Kaima Marie Akarue, featuring works from both current artists and alumni of the Sawyer Yards campus This exhibition challenges traditional ideas of unity, exploring the tension between individuality and collectivity, distinction and cohesion
All ages 10 am – 5 pm Free Through Sept 21 www sawyeryards com
Learn to Grown Pickles
Ready to become the ultimate pickle pro? Join us as we dive into the saucy world of growing cucumber pickles right here in Houston
Discover the top cucumber varieties, pick up secret tips, and master mouthwatering recipes that will have your friends begging for more!
Ages 12+. 10 am. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG
M-K-T Sunset Market
Putting a weeknight, family-friendly spin on the typical farmers market
Enjoy charcuterie on M-K-T’s wave deck, enjoy live music and facepainting on the lawn, or grab a made-to-go meal by one of Houston’s favorite chefs. There is something here for all ages
All ages 6-9 pm Free www themkt com
5th Anniversary of Grand Opening
On the Garden’s 5th birthday, help us celebrate five fantastic years of the Garden, which opened to the public Sept 18, 2020, with $5 admission for all Whether you will be a returning visitor or checking us out for the first time, this is a great opportunity to come see how the Garden has grown into a biodiverse living museum where Houstonians can learn more about plants and get involved in their conservation All ages 9am – 5pm $5 hbg.org
Art Encounters
Looking for a new art experience?
Art Encounters programs led by artists and inspired by art at the MFAH, focus on creating community The way you participate is up to you Take an active role, or simply observe Open to all ages Supplies are provided 6-8 All ages Free, with admission www.mfah.org
FlockFest: Roaring 20s
Step back into the Roaring 20s with Flock at the Zoo! Celebrate in style with lively cocktails, tasty light bites, and plenty of swinging good times as you mingle with our ambassador animals and chat with their zookeepers
Ages 21+ 6:30-8:30 pm $50+ www.houstonzoo.org
TMC Helix Park Book Club
We are delighted to partner with Blue Willow Bookshop, which meets quarterly and is free and open to the public
Adult 11:30am-1pm Free www.helixpark.com
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Bee-come fascinated with our local bees as staff and volunteers guide you through Mercer’s gardens Learn about resident colonies of carpenter bees and honeybees, their critical role in the environment, and Mercer’s conservation efforts through holistic gardening practices This is an outdoor event Wear closed-toe shoes and bring your own water bottle
Ages 5+ 9 am Free www.pct3.com/MBG
Storytime in the Garden
On the third Friday of each month, our friends at the Park Place Regional Library present a 30-minute storytime in the Garden at 10:30 a m Children of all ages and their parents / care-givers are invited 50 free admissions are available for each storytime, on a first-come, first-served basis Registration is required
All ages 10:30-11 am Free hbg.org
Starlight Swan Rides
Join us for a spectacular Friday evening on the Upper Woodlands Waterway Riva Row Boat House will be open extended hours for this program so that you can take a journey down the lit-up waterway on one of our comfortable swan pedal boats
All ages 8-9 pm & 9:30 – 10:30pm $50 / person www.visitthewoodlands.com
Galveston Pirate Festival
Hoist the sails and ready yer crew The first-ever Galveston Pirate Festival is chartin’ a course for adventure For three swashbucklin’ days, the island will brim with costumed rogues, live shanties, cannon fire, and treasure-worthy fun for the whole family
All ages Friday 6-9pm, Saturday 11am-7pm, Sunday 9am-5pm $25+ galvestonpiratefest.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
20 Meet the AnimalsReptile Rendezvous
Seismique SmitherPark
Nature Discovery Center Naturalists offer weekend Meet the Animals sessions aimed to give you a more in-depth introduction to our animals Come learn about their behavior and ecology as well as the characteristics that make them unique in an interactive program with both live animals and natural history specimens
All ages 2-3 pm $5 member, $10 non-member www naturediscoverycenter org
2025
Houston Celebrity Comic Con
The ultimate pop culture celebration, bringing together the biggest names in TV, movies, anime, gaming, and comics for an unforgettable weekend at NRG Center – Hall A Fans can meet their favorite celebrities, attend exclusive panels, and get autographs and photos with top actors and creators The event features a massive vendor hall filled with collectibles, merchandise, and artwork, plus an exciting gaming and esports zone Cosplayers can showcase their best looks in a high-energy contest, while attendees get access to exclusive screenings, sneak peeks, and special events Don’t miss Houston’s biggest fan experience grab your tickets now!
All ages 10am-6pm $13+ Saturday and Sunday www.nrgpark.com
Go Bananas!
This year, the popular Go Bananas! festival falls just after the Houston Botanic Garden’s fifth birthday, so there is even more to celebrate This fun and family friendly annual event draws attention to the many varieties of edible and ornamental Musa (banana) the world’s largest herb! in the Garden’s living plant collections During Go Bananas, attendees can sample different banana varieties, shop a festive market featuring local vendors, visit with the Garden’s horticulturists to learn tips for growing bananas at home, and even purchase a plant(s) from the Garden’s collection Access to the entire Garden including the interactive water play in the Susan Garver Family Discovery Garden, is also part of the Go Bananas! experience
All ages 9 am – 4 pm Adult $20, child $16 hbg.org
The Woodlands Farmer’s Market Shop for items made by local artisans and grown by area farmers The Grogan's Mill Farmers Market is a favorite place to purchase unique gifts and souvenirs from The Woodlands 9a-1p All ages Free Every Saturday www grogansmill org/fmabout
Doc Dissections - Eye
Get in touch with your inner surgeon and dissect an eye individually, in a pair, or as a group of four! Receive guidance from a doctor and one of The Health Museum’s science educators and learn about the organ ’ s anatomy and how to keep the body healthy in a hands-on way!
All ages 2-3 pm $20+ thehealthmuseum.org
Flea by Night
Discovery Green helps Houstonians shop local at Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy Set in the park’s vibrant green space in the heart of downtown and along Avenida de las Americas, Flea by Night is an openair market featuring local artisans and small business owners selling vintage, handmade, recycled, repurposed and local goods
All ages 6-10 pm Free www.discoverygreen.com
RenFest at Children's Museum
Houston
Step into a world of wonder as the Texas Renaissance Festival brings its magic to the Museum for a day of royal encounters, fantastical performances, and creative fun
From playful nobles and whimsical fairies wandering the galleries, to lively shows and hands-on activities for young adventurers, visitors of all ages will find surprises around every corner
All ages. 9am-5pm. $19.95. Cmhouston.org
Zoolates: Pilates at the Zoo
This 45-minute, medium-impact workout, led by a certified and experienced Pilates instructor, will focus on controlled movements that promote flexibility, strengthen the core, and improve posture After class, participants will enjoy an opportunity to meet one of our California sea lions Includes all day zoo entrance and exclusive feeding experience with our Chilean flamingos
Ages 16+ 7:30 am $110 / person www.houstonzoo.org
Strand Summer Series: Movie Nights – The Goonies Galveston Historical Foundation invites you to enjoy historic downtown Galveston for the 2025 Strand Summer Series! These movie nights are located in The Strand’s principal parks and feature free-tothe-public movies
Galveston’s Own Farmers Market
Every Sunday morning, the weekly Galveston’s Own Farmers Market connects folks to good food to each another Shoppers can mingle and find fresh local produce, croissants, coffee, spices, meat, eggs, and more.
All ages Free 9 am – 1 pm Every Sunday galvestonsownfarmersmarket.com
Smither Park
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
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. 10 am. Free. www.pct3.com/MBG
Houston Audubon Family Bird Walk
In recognition of Houston Bird Week a celebration of the important role Houston plays in the journey of billions of migratory birds and the everyday lives of resident birds Houston Audubon invites everyone to join a guided bird walk of the Houston Botanic Garden
Expert guides from Houston Audubon will help you spot and identify a variety of species and share fascinating insights and fun facts about their behavior and habitat
All ages 9-10 am $12/adult, $8/child/student/senior/military, member free hbg.org
Thoughtful Indulgence
Most adults can agree, life would be much more difficult if it wasn't for coffee or chocolate The simple, kind and welcoming invitation of either is something that has been shared by all cultures for many ages The complexities and diversity of the flavors, textures, forms and varieties of delectable are as numerous as human emotions. But they are not only appreciated for their taste
All ages 7:30-9:30pm Free www visitgalveston com 27
Family Zone
Visit the MFAH Family Zone for engaging gallery activities with coloring sheets, colored pencils, books, and more 1-4p All ages Free, with admission www mfah org
All ages 9 am-5 pm Free Through September 28 www sawyeryards com
Gardening Connections'Fall Planting Guide'
Experts from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services and Texas Master Gardeners will teach a new gardening class each month September's topic is "Fall Planting Guide "
Ages 12+ 10:30-11:30 am Free www.pct3.com/MBG
Tough Broads Night Out
Tough Broads Out at Night book club meets every fourth Tuesday of the month This month’s book The Faculty Lounge: A Novel by Jennifer Mathieu
Adults Free 7-8 pm www.bluewillowbookshop.com
Let's Go to The Movies
Grab your popcorn and settle in for a night of iconic movie music as The Woodlands Symphony takes the stage at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for Let’s Go to the Movies! From sweeping scores to unforgettable soundtracks, this concert brings Hollywood’s greatest musical moments to life Experience the magic of the silver screen with selections from legendary films performed live by a full symphony orchestra. Whether you're a film buff or just love a great tune, this cinematic celebration under the stars is perfect for the whole family
All ages 7:30-10 pm Free www.woodlandscenter.org
Yoga in Art Club – Wavespace
Join Lauren Marsh and Black Swan Yoga for a transformative yoga session set within the immersive experience of Wavespace a visual manifestation of water, sound and light.
Adult 8:30-9:30 pm $41 00 www.posthtx.com
Mercer's gardens and miles of winding riparian forest trails along the Cypress Creek flyway are an ideal place to birdwatch This bird survey is suited for birders of all levels The survey follows a 1 7-mile loop that is primarily crushed asphalt trails
Ages 12+ 8-9am Free www.pct3.com/MBG
Manhattan Short Film Festival 2025
Join film lovers at more than 500 venues across 6 continents to view and judge the work of the next generation of international filmmakers. The 2025 edition of the annual Manhattan Short Film Festival takes place globally
All ages $10 general admission, $2 discount for MFAH members, students with ID, seniors (65+) Thursday & Friday 7-10pm, Saturday & Sunday 2-5 pm www.mfah.org
Kingwood Farmers Market
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
Movie Night on the Lawn: The Animal Kingdon
A visionary thriller that immerses viewers in a world where mysterious genetic mutations transform humans into hybrid creatures, François (Romain Duris) does everything he can to save his wife, who has been affected by the condition As some of the creatures disappear into a nearby forest, François embarks with Emile (Paul Kircher), their 16year-old son, on a quest to find her with help from a local police officer (Adèle Exarchopoulos) From acclaimed director Thomas Cailley, the film had its world premiere as the opening night selection of Cannes’ Un Certain Regard
All ages 7:30-9:30 pm Free www.posthtx.com
Movie Night in Helix Hall : Paddington
The adventure awaits you with a bear-y fun evening at Helix Park! Relax and enjoy freshly popped popcorn, various candies, and an assortment of drinks while watching “Paddington,” rated “PG,”. We ask that you please arrive 10-15 minutes early to allow everyone to get seated and purchase snacks before the movie begins
All ages 7:30pm Free www helixpark com
Galveston Island Shrimp Festival
Celebrate coastal flavor and community spirit at the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival, a two-day tradition filled with food and fun Every September, Historic Downtown Galveston transforms into a shrimp-lover’s paradise Enjoy gumbo tastings, live music, a festive 5K, the Lil’ Shrimps Parade, and a lively walk-about with Strand merchants With family-friendly activities and Gulf Coast energy, this weekend has something for everyone Bring your appetite and your dancing shoes.
All ages Friday 7:30-10pm, Saturday 9am-5:30pm galvestonislandshrimpfestival co m
Home School on the Green Children are allowed to participate even if they are not in homeschooling Abrakadoodle nurtures creative thinkers Our art environment unleashes creativity in children through our curriculum based on Process Art –Art that places emphasis upon the learning taking place rather than the finished product Kids will bring an art project home every class
All ages 10:30-11:30a Free www.centralgreenpark.com
Bat Fest
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From pollinating to pest control, bats play an important role in keeping our ecosystems healthy! Join the Houston Arboretum and our community partners to learn more about local bat species and current conservation efforts being made to help stop the decline of bat populations There will be fun bat-themed activities and crafts for the kids, story time, food trucks, and a blood drive with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center
All ages 10 am – 2 pm Free www houstonarboretum org
Water Wise Fest
Our Annual Water Wise Fest has plenty of fun this year!! Our Surrounding Mud Districts will be there teaching all about water conservation all while you get your face painted or visit the Balloon Twister
All ages. 12-3pm. Free. www.centralgreenpark.com
Shaky Knees Stories!
Kick off Halloween at the BOO!SEUM with Express Children’s Theatre’s delightful spin on a classic fairy tale and don't miss out on spooky story time, crafts and more creepy fun!
All ages 9am-5pm $19 95 / person www.cmhouston.org
Memorial Market Summer Series
Immerse your senses in a fusion of flavors, artisan crafts, and one-of-a-kind produce
All ages 9am-1pm Free Every Saturday www.mvfarmersmarket.org
Haunted Tales & Ghost Tour
The Haunted Tales Tour at the Galveston Naval Museum is a thrilling and immersive experience that takes visitors through the haunted halls of two historic naval vessels! This tour combines the rich maritime history of World War II-era ships with eerie tales of ghostly encounters, making it a must-visit for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike
All ages 7:30 & 10:30 pm Adult $40, 12- $20 www visitgalveston com
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Yoga on the Lawn
From pollinating to pest control, bats play an important role in keeping our ecosystems healthy! There will be fun bat-themed activities and crafts for the kids, story time, food trucks, and a blood drive with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center
All ages 10 am – 2 pm Free www houstonarboretum org
Mess Makers – Foam is Fun
Messy, sensory play is an important part of child development Together with NDC staff and volunteers, you will explore and create with messy things like mud, flowers, paint, and shaving cream We will make works of art as well as just good old messy fun After we make messes together, you’ll go home clean!
Ages 3-7. 10-11:15 am. Members $22, non-members $27 www.naturediscoverycenter.org
Family Day at Rienzi | "Hispanic Heritage"
Visit Rienzi for a free afternoon of activities to celebrate the influence of Hispanic and Latino history and culture during Hispanic Heritage Month. Explore the galleries and discover the rich historical and artistic influences of Spanish culture
All ages 1-5 pm $10 general admission, $2 discount for MFAH members, students with ID, seniors (65+) www.mfah.org
Esplanade at Navigation Market
Brought to you by the East End District, the East End Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 10am to 2pm on the Navigation Esplanade in front of the historic original Ninfa’s Restaurant Unique among Houston’s farmers markets, the East End Farmers Market blends sights and sounds, cuisine and culture to create an experience that is rooted in one of Houston’s most historic communities Visit the East End Farmers Market to sample fresh garden fruits and vegetables, locally produced farm and dairy products, prepared foods, and unique handcrafted wares
All ages 10am-2pm Free Every Sunday eastendhouston com/market
Zumba by Tiny Fitness 29
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
Salsa Beginner Monday
Beginners start Monday! Join us for super fun Salsa dance lessons in Houston Start your journey today Everyone welcome No partner needed
Adult 7-10pm $20-39 www.latindancefactory.com
Howdy H-Town leads a guided 2mile, 3 5-hour walking food tour of East Downtown, with stops at five greeting dining destinations
Seeing art landmarks along the way, you’ll make five stops with delicious bites, including street tacos, acclaimed pastries, a flavorful Mediterranean grocery store, and more.
Adult 11am-2:30 pm $90 / person howdyhtown.com
RISE 2025 Visual Exhibition
"Rise" refers to moving upward, increasing height, level, or quantity, or becoming more prominent or successful It is used in various contexts, from physical movement to abstract concepts like growth, improvement, or awakening It’s a versatile term that conveys movement, development, and progress across physical, emotional, and metaphorical dimensions
Common synonyms include ascend, climb, increase, advance, grow, emerge, and rebel
All ages 9am-5pm Free www.sawyeryards.com
Step into a graphic novel aiming to reveal the strange and wonderful specializations animals exhibit to give them a leg up on the competition or evade predators Get up close with a variety of critters, both familiar and unknown Consider the unique characteristics that give animals the advantage from super speed to super stealth Discover animals with “ superpowers ” that allow them to shape-shift, glow, or control the minds of other animals Investigate the physical, behavioral and structural adaptations that allow animals to survive in unique environments Opportunities to interact with live animals will occur daily!
All ages 9 am-6 pm Adult $35, child $27 www hmns org
Have an event you want listed in our calendar? Submit your event’s details to calendar@houstonfamilymagazine.com at least 6 weeks prior to issue date for your event to be considered. All paid events may require a $25 listing fee.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
www.hmns.org
Hours: 9am-5pm Mon-Sun
$25 adult, $16 children 3-11, senior 62+ and college students FREE every Thursday 2-5pm
Death by Natural Causes Heinous killers or misjudged miscreants? You be the judge as the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s most lethal exhibit- Death by Natural Causes Special Exhibit
The Eternal Garden Titanium, an immensely challenging material due to its high melting point and hardness, is at the heart of Aka Chen’s artistic production Since first researching and fashioning jewelry from titanium in 1994 Aka Chen has been pioneering and marrying traditional metalworking techniques with innovative practices
Special Exhibit
King Tut’s Tomb Discovery Experience
Travel to Egypt’s fabled Valley of the Kings to accompany famed Egyptologist Howard Carter as he gazes into King Tut’s Tomb for the very first time Surrounded by elements of the recent–and ancient–past, visitors will bask in the glories of King Tut’s Tomb and walk in the footsteps of Howard Carter Special Exhibit
The Health Museum www.thehealthmuseum.org
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm., Thurs. 10am-6pm., Sun. 125pm $10 adult, $8 senior 65+, free for children under 2 FREE on Thursdays 2-6 pm
Reclaimed Creations
Explore the incredible sculptures created by artist Sayaka Ganz, from discarded plastic, while learning about the science of plastic and its impact on our world
Permanent Exhibit
Body Worlds 101: The Core of Life
Health and wellness come into focus when you explore beneath the skin, a fascinating all-new exhibit designed to ignite curiosity, understanding, and awe for the human body for visitors of all ages
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 Currently displayed in the galleries are more than forty paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs from the collection alongside important loans Recent acquisitions on view include works by Dawoud Bey, Sam Gilliam, Christina Quarles, Winfred Rembert, and Deborah Roberts
Special Exhibit through Fall 2026
Museum Fine Arts Houston www.mfah.org
Hours: Various times, Wed-Sun $24 adult, $20 children 13-18, senior 65+, children 12- free. FREE every Thursday 11am-2pm
Frida: The Making of an Icon Devoted to Frida Kahlo’s life and legacy, Frida: The Making of an Icon premieres at the MFAH in January 2026. This monumental exhibition features more than 30 works by the legendary Mexican artist and 120 by artists across five generations that she inspired Practically unknown to mainstream audiences during her lifetime (1907–1954), Kahlo has been enshrined since the mid1970s as the only female artist whose instant audience recognition and mass appeal rival those of male artists Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol
Special Exhibit Through August 3, 2025
Floating World: A.A.Murakami
Visitors to this immersive exhibition, the first U.S. museum show from Tokyo/London-based artist duo A A Murakami, encounter immense bubble-like clouds that gracefully float and dissolve into mist; swirling fog rings that radiate from a central tower; and dozens of plasma krypton “lightning” tubes that flicker and click while evoking a field of crickets
Special Exhibit Through Spring 2026
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THE WITCHER IN CONCERT Smart Financial Center September 6, 2025
The Witcher in Concert is coming to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the critically acclaimed The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt! Witness the open-world RPG’s timeless score brought to life with a live orchestra performance, featuring special appearances by Polish folk metal band Percival, the original co-composers of the game ’ s soundtrack
AMERICAN PSYCHO THE MUSICAL Zilhka Hall
September 2-14, 2025
Fancy Nancy The Musical Main Street Theater
This cinematic experience combines breathtaking in-game visuals with live music, making it a must-see event for fans of The Witcher and epic orchestral performances alike
All ages. 8 pm. $31+. www.smartfinancialcentre.net
JOHN CLEESE
Not Dead Yet! - John Cleese and the Holy Grail at 50 Smart Financial Center September 19, 2025
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate 50 years of Monty Python and the Holy Grail with the one and only John Cleese! This oncein-a-lifetime event features a special screening of the beloved cult classic, followed by an uproarious conversation and audience Q&A with Cleese himself, where he’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, wit, and wisdom assuming he remembers any of it
Gather your fellow knights, dust off your coconuts, and prepare for an evening of irreverent humor and unparalleled comedy history. Secure your tickets now before Cleese really is dead! **Coconuts not included in ticket price
All ages. 8 pm. $60+. www smartfinancialcentre net
Based on the electrifying novel by Bret Easton Ellis and set in the epicenter of excess: 1980s Manhattan, this musical tells the story of Patrick Bateman, a young and handsome Wall Street banker with impeccable taste and unquenchable desires Patrick and his elite group of friends spend their days in chic restaurants, exclusive clubs and designer labels But at night, Patrick takes part in a darker indulgence, and his mask of sanity is starting to slip
All ages. $33+. Various times. www.thehobbycenter.org
KIMBERLY AKIMBO Sarofim Hall
August 16-21, 2025
The 2023 Tony-winner for best musical, based on David LindsayAbaire’s play of the same title, revolves around a teenage girl named Kimberly Levaco, who suffers from a condition that rapidly accelerates the aging process Before she has had a chance to venture forth into the world as an adult, she finds herself turning into an old woman Her story, unfolding like a dark fairy tale, is as whimsical as it is piercing Yet the effect is powerfully life-affirming in the way it reminds audiences of the preciousness of the time we have at hand Full of quirky humor and social satire on grownup immaturity, the musical features a score by Jeanine Tesori (music) and David LindsayAbaire (lyrics) that will leave you both grinning and deeply touched.
All ages. $55+. Various times. www thehobbycenter org
THE TEMPTATIONS AND THE FOUR TOPS
Smart Financial Center
September 24, 2025
The Temptations, often referred to as American music royalty, are worldrenowned superstars of entertainment, revered for their phenomenal catalog of music and prolific career They are one of the most iconic, bestselling brands in the entertainment world today While the group has evolved over the years, Dr Otis Williams has continued to lead the group and carry the torch forward for the next generation of Temptations’ fans The Temptations are headlining concerts around the country throughout 2025 Their concerts include fan favorites such as “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me),” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” and more
All ages $30+ 8 pm www.smartfinancialcentre.net
VIVA LATIN AMERICA: TANGO TIME
Zilhka Hall
September 20, 2025
Few art forms can match the passion, elegance, and drama of tango With its haunting melodies, intricate rhythms, and seductive dance steps, tango has captivated audiences in the United States for over a century First introduced to Americans through ballroom dances in New York between 1912 and 1915, tango quickly became a sensation, later enjoying vibrant revivals in the 1930s, 1950s, and 1980s, each wave drawing new admirers to its magnetic blend of music and movement.
All ages. $51+. Various times. www thehobbycenter org
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KIDZ BOP LIVE
Cynthia Mitchell Pavilion September 7, 2025
The KIDZ BOP Kids are back in 2025 with their all new KIDZ BOP Live Certified BOP Tour, coming to a city near you Sing and dance along to today’s biggest BOPs live on the big stage including “ espresso ” , “HOT TO GO”, & “Dance Monkey ” Join us for the ultimate pop concert experience for kids (and their grown-ups!) with eyepopping new stage design and interactive elements kids will love, the return of the popular (and hilarious!) Daddy Dance Off! Don’t miss this annual live event that’s become the first concert experience for a generation of young fans
Hocus Pocus Pops
PURLIE VICTORIOUS: A NON-CONFEDERATE ROMP THROUGH THE COTTON PATCH
Main Street Theater
September 13-October 12, 2025
Dynamic traveling preacher Purlie Victorious Judson returns to his small Georgia town hoping to save Big Bethel, the community’s church, and emancipate the cotton pickers who work on oppressive Ol’ Cap’n Cotchipee’s plantation With the help of Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins, Purlie plans to wrench from Ol’ Cotchipee the inheritance due his long-lost cousin and use the money to save his town! “We still need togetherness; we still need each otherness –with faith in the futureness of our cause Let us, therefore, stifle the rifle of conflict, shatter the scatter of discord, smuggle the struggle, tickle the pickle, and grapple the apple of peace!” A truly hilarious and joyful comedy by the incomparable Ossie Davis
September 19 - October 19, 2025
Ugly Duckling at The 1894 Grand Opera House, Galveston
Join the thrilling adventure as symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu race to solve a deadly puzzle that could change history Following the clues hidden in ancient symbols and imagery, they uncover secrets that lead them on a dangerous quest Based on the smash hit novel by Dan Brown, embark on a journey across Europe to the Louvre, Westminster Abbey, and Rosslyn Chapel
All ages. Various Times. $46+. www.alleytheatre.org
Let's Go To The Movies
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
September 24, 2025
All ages. $33+. 4 pm. www.woodlandscenter.org
BRAVO BROADWAY!
Cynthia Mitchell Pavilion September 9, 2025
Broadway music performs a gravity defying act every single time it leaps from the stage, in through our ears and eyes, straight into the depths of the heart It makes us feel like we can fly, like we can finally be free, like we can be something new for the first time The music magnifies the emotions of the story, amplifying our memories until the joy is hardly containable
All ages. 7:30 pm. Free. www.woodlandscenter.org
Times vary. Tickets $45+. www.mainstreettheater.com
HOUSTON JAZZ FESTIVAL
Miller Outdoor Theatre September 20, 2025
Enjoy a breathtaking performance as Modern Jazz Masters perform music from the Cannonball Adderley catalogue
Grammy winning alto saxophonist Mark Gross of the Duke Ellington Orchestra will also be joined by special guest Veronica Swift as they perform from the iconic 1962 Nancy Wilson – Cannonball Adderley Capitol release The evening will be informed by and feature masterworks by acclaimed Texas artist John Alexander
All ages Free 8 pm www.milleroutdoortheatre.com
The Woodlands Symphony is thrilled to take on your favorite music scores: the music that lifts action films into the upper echelon of cinema experiences, the tunes that set the mood for iconic films throughout history, the soundtracks that add suspense to classic tales Take a journey through some of the movies’ most magnificent moments with talented musicians from right here in our community, all in a free, familyfriendly environment
If you ’ re waiting for your chance to enjoy your favorite silver screen soundtracks in a new, invigorating setting - this is it!
All ages. Free. 7:30 pm. www.woodlandscentre.org
Conquer towering slides, be a swashbuckling pirate, or take the princess pledge during your summer getaway to Gaylord Texan GaylordTexan.com
