MetroFamily Magazine March-April 2023

Amped UPSummer Camps

Find dozens of options in our popular guide

Road Trip Remix!

Top 4 children’s museums around the state

Break it Down 5 things you didn’t know about your local library

Raising Your Own Backyard Chickens

Sun., March 5, 2-3pm @ Warr Acres Library

Tues., March 7, 6-7pm @ Almonte Library

Fri., March 10, 10-11am @ Southern Oaks Library

Weds., March 15, 11-Noon @ Ralph Ellison Library

Sat., March 18, 10-11am @ Belle Isle Library

Sat., March 25, 1-2pm @ Downtown Library

Sun., March 26, 1-2pm @ Capitol Hill Library

Spring Gardening for Beginners

Sunday, March 12, 2-3pm @ Capitol Hill Library

Weds., March 15, 11-Noon @ Downtown Library

Sat., March 18, 10-11am @ Village Library

Tues., March 21, 5:30-6:30pm @ Ralph Ellison Library

Thurs., March 23, 6:30-7:30pm @ Belle Isle Library

Fri., March 24, 10-11:30am @ Southern Oaks Library

Sun., March 26, 2-3pm @ Warr Acres Library

Tues., March 28, 6-7pm @ Almonte Library

Features

12 BEYOND BOOKS

5 surprising offerings from your local library

14 A DREAM DECADES IN THE MAKING

Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center opens in NE OKC

42

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Spark learning, creativity, friendships & fun with dozens of close-to-home options

Departments

10 NEW & NOW

4 things families need to know this spring

16 FAMILY MENTAL WELLNESS

Introducing 988: Oklahoma’s Mental Health Lifeline

18 LOCAL FAMILY FUN

Active adventures around the metro to get your family moving

22

EXPLORING OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN Road trip! Visit 4 children’s museums around the state

26 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Spring Break activities, outdoor festivals and frugal family fun

62 LAST LOOK

Then & now: Warren The Cowboy

From the Cover

42 AMPED UP SUMMER CAMPS

22 ROAD TRIP REMIX!

12 BREAK IT DOWN

SCISSORTAIL PARK

SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA

OKC PARKS

When you think of the phrase “healthy family,” what comes to mind? Once upon a time, my earnest answer for my family would have been: eating more vegetables, playing high-intensity sports together, spending time outdoors.

I’ve been forced to redefine health over the past year as a difficult heart condition diagnosis placed me on an unexpected physical and mental health journey. I’ve had to alter my lifestyle to become quieter, less stressful and less physically taxing. I’ve had to learn to lean in to gentler exercise, journaling, more therapy and medication for both physical ailments and anxiety.

Publisher

Sarah Taylor

Managing Editor

Erin Page

Assistant Editor

Lindsay Cuomo

Art Director

Stacy Noakes

Senior Project Manager

Kirsten Holder

Director of Events

Casey Shupe

Editorial Assistant

Emiley Bainbridge

Account Executive

Dana Price

Contributing Writers

Toni Allen

Christina Mushi-Brunt

Contributing Photographer

Bridget Pipkin

Contact us

Mailing address:

6608 N. Western Ave., #458 Oklahoma City, OK 73116

Phone: 405-601-2081

tips@metrofamilymagazine.com

www.metrofamilymagazine.com

MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright

2023 by MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Proud member of

Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce & Edmond Chamber of Commerce

I’ve learned that prioritizing my kids’ mental health isn’t nearly as effective if I’m not also prioritizing mine. Healthy for my family looks much different in 2023: focusing on rest, joy and time together. We’re still eating vegetables, playing sports and getting outdoors. And we’ll continue to place our mental health first with both the support of professionals and each other.

In the midst of my own journey, I’m excited to help offer other families the opportunity to consider what healthy means for you this year, too. I hope you’ll join MetroFamily for our brand new event this spring, OKC Thrive Fest on Saturday, March 25 at RIVERSPORT . Enjoy a day of fun activities with your family, and check out all the vendors providing resources related to family mental wellness and physical health. Find the details on page 6. I’m looking forward to seeing you there and hearing how MetroFamily can support your family this year.

With hope,

Erin Page Managing Editor

ON THE COVER

Rex is the winner of MetroFamily’s 2023 Cover Kids Search in the 6-7 age category! Rex is an active second grader from Edmond who loves to tell jokes, dance, swim and play flag football and baseball. He enjoys rock climbing at Threshold and attending art camp at Edmond Fine Arts Institute. A seasoned traveler, Rex has been to 15 states and Canada. By his own rule, he will try any food at least once, with his favorites being broccoli, apples, fish and mac and cheese. Rex is the son of Kay, and together their family has fostered four children after being inspired by a MetroFamily series on the need for foster families in our state. Rex and Kay’s favorite place to visit in OKC is Scissortail Park.

Special thanks to Oklahoma Contemporary for hosting Rex’s photoshoot and providing their popular DJ camp set up — see page 43 for more info on this unique camp opportunity!

SURGICAL PLACEMENT OF A PACEMAKER/ DEFIBRILLATOR – AND REDEFINED WHAT HEALTHY MEANS FOR ME.

Ready for a wellness boost and loads of family fun?

Join us us Saturday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at RIVERSPORT OKC near downtown for a local celebration of family health and wellness. We all want our kids and families to thrive inside and out and this event will provide what you need to boost your family’s wellness factor!

Admission is FREE! (parking is $5)

Preregistration highly recommended

VIP Activity Wristbands available for purchase

FREE Activities Include:

Raft paddling

Nerf Battle Arena

Interactive play stations

Cloud bounce

Kids zipline

Race rollers

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Youth Zone Pump track

Yard games

Learn more and preregister at: metrofamilymagazine.com/okcthrivefest

Preregister today & join us March 25 for OKC Thrive Fest!

More than 30 vendors will provide hands-on fun

• dance & exercise mini-classes

• CPR demonstrations

• soccer drills

• agility skill tests

• prize wheels

• information about mental health coping skills for kids and much more!

metrofamilymagazine.com/okcthrivefest

Presenting Sponsor:

Engagement Sponsor: Community Sponsors:

Dr. Kim Hefner specializes in helping kids with progressive nearsightedness. Call her to find out about MiSight.

405-728-8853 5757 NW 132nd St hefnereyecare.com

family SHOUT OUT

FAVORITES FOR A CHANCE TO

WIN BIG!

It’s that time of year again! We need your help to crown the best of familyfriendly businesses and organizations in OKC. From dance studios and splash pads to restaurants and attractions, our reader-voted Family Favorites awards make it easy for OKC parents to find the top local resources. Nominate your favorites between March 22 and April 12 at metrofamilymagazine.com/vote. Then, vote to determine the winners May 3 through 17. The winners and finalists will be highlighted in our July/August issue.

Hello Spring!

Family Favorites OKC

2O23

THE BEST PART?

When you nominate and vote in our Family Favorites contest, you’ll be entered for a chance to WIN two fabulous prize packages, each including a 2-night stay at the brand new Brut Hotel in Tulsa, which is walking distance from The Gathering Place, Tulsa’s award-winning park.

Take advantage of warmer weather and longer days with our lists of family-friendly festivals around the state, 50 Things to Do for Under $5, farmers markets, Spring Break camps and family fun, ways to celebrate Earth Day, Easter egg-stravaganzas and much more at metrofamilymagazine.com/spring

Oh, Baby!

The team at MetroFamily got to “meet” more than 100 of the cutest babies in OKC through our 2022 Cutest Baby Photo Contest! Every single one captured our hearts and it was next to impossible to select 10 winners. Meet our final 2022 winner here, and stay tuned for our May/June issue to meet our 2023 Cutest Baby Photo Contest winners!

Adeline

18 months

Adeline loves playing with her older brother and showing off her outgoing personality by waving and talking to everyone she meets!

Spring Things

BY METROFAMILY’S EDITORIAL TEAM. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

40th Redbud Classic to benefit Wings Special Needs Community

The annual Redbud Classic celebrates its 40th year of fun, fitness and philanthropy in the OKC metro the weekend of April 15 and 16. Events include bike tours, 5k and 10k timed runs, a 5k wheelchair and push chair event and a 2-mile walk, in addition to a 1-mile kids’ fun run, a 1-mile Woof Walk and a 2-mile Baby Stroller Derby. Sunday also includes the popular finish line Redbud Bash with food trucks, free family-friendly games and activities, music and other entertainment.

Each year, proceeds from the Redbud events benefit a local nonprofit organization. The 2023 beneficiary is Wings, which enhances the lives of adults with developmental disabilities through social, vocational and residential programs. Program participants develop productive job skills; learn art, culinary and life skills; and have opportunities to serve the community together.

For complete Redbud details and to register for events, visit redbud.org. For more information about Wings, visit wingsok.org

RIVERSPORT OKC bike park expansion opens this spring

The Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park expansion at RIVERSPORT OKC includes a new bike plaza, an outdoor classroom, a community garden, play area and paved parking. Shipping containers provide a unique gathering place that includes a welcome center, a nature center and ADA restrooms. Plus, an elevated portion of the trail will travel across the rooftops of the shipping containers!

The $1.4 million trailhead and bike park will function as a hub of the city’s trail system, which will run through RIVERSPORT Boathouse District and will soon connect to the Katy Trail to the east. Cyclists will be able to make a complete 5-mile loop around Oklahoma City on paved trails as well as access revamped mountain bike trails and jump lines. The bike park is located at the intersection of I-35 and I-40.

“Biking is one of the most accessible ways for people to enjoy the outdoors,” said Mike Knopp, executive director of RIVERSPORT. “With this expansion, we’re able to provide the amenities that really make the trails work, such as accessible restrooms, drinking fountains and refillable water bottle stations, plenty of shade and seating for rest stops, and a place where you can do minor bike repairs.”

AN ELEVATED PORTION OF THE NEW OKLAHOMA TRAILHEAD AND BIKE PARK EXPANSION AT RIVERSPORT OKC WILL TRAVEL OVER THE ROOFTOPS OF SHIPPING CONTAINERS.

THE REDBUD CLASSIC INCLUDES SEVERAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS, LIKE THE 2-MILE BABY STROLLER DERBY. PHOTOS BY CAROLYN TAYLOR, JONES PR.

Science Museum Oklahoma breaks ground on mind-blowing planetarium

Construction officially began on Science Museum Oklahoma’s new Love’s Planetarium in late 2022. The dream to provide a higher-tech, world-class planetarium at the museum has been in the works since before the pandemic; a recent $3.5 million donation from Love’s Travel Stops reinvigorated the campaign.

The Love’s Planetarium will utilize cutting-edge technology available in only a handful of planetariums in the world and will feature both an optical and digital projector creating a realistic night sky of 9,500 bright stars, 56 nebulae and clusters of stars for binocular viewing.

The new dome will present highresolution images in striking detail and provide audiences with a night

sky free of light pollution – something many people never experience outside a planetarium. Audiences will have unobstructed views of the presentation from seats individually calibrated for optimum viewing.

The Love’s Planetarium will also include space for featured presenters, early childhood programming, special events and more. The $8 million project, including supplemental astronomy exhibits, is slated for completion in fall 2024. The Kirkpatrick Planetarium will remain open until the new planetarium is completed.

Smart Start offers free parenting classes

Local nonprofit organization Smart Start Central Oklahoma offers Early Birds classes for any Oklahoma caregiver with a child under the age of 5. The school readiness program provides caregivers with information and parenting resources, activity ideas and free educational toys and books to stimulate children’s development and learning at home.

The 60 to 90 minute classes are led by trained professionals and cover topics like child development, everyday learning opportunities, activities that promote school readiness, parenting techniques and health and safety. Caregivers learn purposeful play techniques to help develop school readiness skills from the moment their child

is born. In addition to free toys and materials, participants also receive free access to the Early Birds eBook with additional resources, tips and support.

Early Birds is a 16-class program beginning with a prenatal class. The classes are offered three times per year throughout the state, both virtually and in person. Caregivers can join the program at any time before a child turns 5. In addition to parents and caregivers, grandparents, relatives, foster families, childcare providers, teachers and others who spend time caring for children are welcome to attend.

Learn more and register for a class near you by visiting smartstartcentraloklahoma.org/ early-birds.

DONORS AND SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA REPRESENTATIVES CELEBRATE THE LOVE’S PLANETARIUM GROUNDBREAKING.

FREE PARENTING CLASSES ARE AVAILABLE TO ANY OKLAHOMA CAREGIVER WITH A CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF 5. EARLY BIRDS CLASS PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE FREE TOYS AND BOOKS TO STIMULATE CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING AT HOME.

5 Surprising Offerings From Your Local Library

BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Oklahoma City’s Metropolitan Library System surpassed 3 million digital check-outs in 2022. That level of engagement ranks our library users as active as much larger communities like Los Angeles County and Houston’s Harris County.

Expanding the digital collection was just one of many unique ways that MLS staff has flexed their creativity during the past two years of the pandemic. They were one of the first library systems in the nation to offer the Children Reading to Dogs program virtually and even enhanced WiFi strength at their 19 locations so patrons could access it from the parking lot when the buildings were closed.

The MLS team is carrying that creativity and flexibility into 2023 with even more unique offerings to fit the community’s needs. “We are constantly evaluating how to reach our community,” said Angel Suhrstedt, communications director for Metropolitan Library System. “We are doing some unique things, and that has really helped us cement ourselves as the heart of the community. We are more than just books.”

5 things you may not know the Metropolitan Library System offers:

1In response to requests, in 2023, libraries will be adding more free family programs on evenings and weekends. The Edmond library offers a weekly evening story time, where kids often attend in their pajamas! In Del City, family art nights encourage creativity and a Sunday robotics club draws patrons from around the city. Tai Chi, Zumba, yoga and other exercise programs are offered at various locations, all free to enjoy. A new gardening program for families, in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Health, will launch this spring.

In addition to continuing longtime family favorites like weekly story times and Children Reading to Dogs, free family take-home kits with creative themes like kitchen table science, creating clay sculptures and making light sensitive paper are available at all locations.

“Increasing a child’s literacy is of utmost importance, but we also want kids to have fun and to have new experiences,” said Suhrstedt.

2Not sure what to read? Get a list of Tailored Titles, curated by a librarian, for you or your child. Visit metrolibrary.org to fill out a form about your (or your child’s) reading interests; then, you’ll receive a list of 10 to 12 suggestions. Hop on Facebook every other week for virtual Tailored Titles, where community members can interact with librarians to receive their live recommendations.

Plus, don’t miss the Summer Reading Program, where both kids and adults can log minutes to earn prizes! After you enter your child into the program, you’ll receive weekly book recommendations based on their ages and interests throughout the year.

3MLS Labs offer unique (and FREE!) access to STEM based tools and equipment, like 3D printers, engravers, wood burning kits, button makers, embroidery sewing machines and much more. Both the Belle Isle and Bethany libraries have full MLS Labs, or Makerspaces, on site with Mac and Windows-based computers with the full Adobe Suite of software available for use. Bethany also has a green screen, lighting and recording equipment for budding videographers. Dedicated staff members are on site to help with projects. Patrons can make an appointment to use the equipment and materials.

Several additional MLS locations have Maker carts, which include 3D printers and an assortment of tech tools available for programs and patron use.

Did You Know?

1. All MLS locations are fine free!

2. Check out times have been extended to three weeks.

3. Materials will be automatically re-checked out to you after the three week period, unless another patron has the material on hold, in which case you’ll be notified.

GET A LIST OF TAILORED TITLES FROM A METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM LIBRARIAN BASED ON YOUR OR YOUR CHILD’S READING INTERESTS.

SPONSORED BY

Two new Metro Library locations are in the works! The new Almonte Library at SE 59th Street and May Avenue will be open by the end of the year. The current Almonte Library, located in a shopping center, opened over a decade ago to serve local patrons when the Southern Oaks Library shut down briefly for remodeling. Though intended to be temporary, the location was so popular that it has remained open all this time, and the new location (right across the street from the current one) will be twice the size and include a Makerspace.

Edmond will get a second library at I-35 and 15th Street by 2025. The original Edmond location is the busiest library in the state, but because it’s landlocked and has limited parking, a new library is needed to meet the community’s needs. The new library will offer programs in conjunction with the YMCA, to be located next door, and nearby Arcadia Lake.

Fun fact: MLS opened a kiosk in the Mitch Park parking lot a few years ago for west Edmond patrons. Stop by to pick up a hold, return books or check out popular titles.

5Beyond books and family fun, our libraries offer community services and resource connections. Social workers are embedded in several locations to assist families in need of food, housing or employment, as well as to connect community members with mental health services. In partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, a monthly mobile market offers free

produce at several locations. And for patrons of any age who need help learning to read or with literacy support services, MLS locations can provide that, too.

Learn more about all the programs offered at MLS locations across the metro at metrolibrary.org

METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM LOCATIONS WILL ADD MORE FREE FAMILY PROGRAMS ON EVENINGS AND WEEKENDS THIS YEAR.

A dream decades in the making

Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center opens in NE OKC

BY TONI ALLEN. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Over the years, the metro has experienced new developments and growth — a renaissance — that have led to hyperlocal community transformations, including in historic Northeast OKC.

The EastPoint Project, for example, reengaged and revitalized NE 23rd Street. With an outdoor mall including retail shops, restaurants and a gym, plus a grocer and health center nearby, the development has brought new energy to the area. Adding to this excitement is the June 2023 opening of the new Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center – a modern, state-of-the-art OKC Parks facility located off I-35 and NE 10th Street.

The center’s namesake, Willa D. Johnson, was elected and served as city councilperson for Oklahoma City’s Ward 7, in which the new center is located, from 1993 to 2007. Johnson was the first Black woman elected to the council and then served another decade as Oklahoma County commissioner, retiring from public office in 2017. During her time in office, Johnson was a champion for parks and recreation projects, including advocating for a new recreation center at Douglass Park. She was also involved in supporting the original MAPS and MAPS for Kids projects and successfully secured bond funds to refresh the NE 23rd Street corridor between Broadway Avenue and I-35, among many other ventures.

The city council adopted a resolution naming the center after Johnson in December 2019 and OKC Parks broke ground in the fall of 2020. The $18 million project has been funded by a bond package included in the Better City, Safer Streets program.

Current Ward 7 Councilwoman Nikki Nice has been instrumental in bringing the new community development to fruition, further continuing Johnson’s legacy with the idea of establishing an endowment fund.

Follow @okcparks for more info about the new recreation center grand opening!

The endowment will help fund youth programming at the facility and subsidize youth who need financial support to participate in the programs, said Mason Williams, OKC Parks unit operations supervisor for aquatics, athletics and fitness. Staff hope the community will continue to contribute to the endowment fund, housed through the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, to increase accessibility for youth programs.

“We were fortunate,” said Nice. “The endowment had been established and Ms. Johnson was able to see the endowment match fulfilled before she passed away.”

Johnson died in May 2022, but her dream for this recreation center will come to fruition when it opens this summer.

Ways your family can enjoy the new Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center:

Explore multigenerational recreation.

The community-focused facility promoting health, wellness and quality of life spans 22,000 square feet. The center will offer recreational and social opportunities for community members of all ages, from children to seniors.

“We really see the Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center as a multigenerational center,” said Williams. “It’s the first of its kind in OKC that is city owned and city based and will serve a greater area with a broader reach.”

Historically, OKC Parks recreation centers have served their individual neighborhoods within a 1 to 3 mile radius. But Williams expects this new center to have a much broader reach, serving up to a 5 mile radius, thanks to the focus on providing opportunities for the whole community.

“Best practices show that different ages and generations work well together and benefit from recreational opportunities together,” said Williams.

THE NEW WILLA D. JOHNSON RECREATION CENTER RENDERING

WILLA D. JOHNSON, THE CENTER’S NAMESAKE

Check out the family-friendly features, programming and pool!

The new recreation center replaces the current Douglass Community Center built in 1926. It’s the first modern multi-purpose recreation center built within OKC Parks in more than 40 years.

The new center will provide active recreation space, fitness areas and classes, basketball courts, pickleball courts, a teaching kitchen for cooking classes, classrooms, multi-use rooms and an indoor pool complete with a lazy river and water slide. Swim lessons will be offered as well.

A child watch area will be available for children ages 3 to 6 while their parents or guardians make use of the facility, and a teen lounge will include an e-sports and gaming area, large TVs and desktop computers.

The pool and a community room will be available to rent for parties.

Councilwoman Nice says the center will provide programming the community had not previously been able to access.

“We’re looking at leagues, tournaments [and] maybe swim meets,” said Nice, who added this is all in an area that once had no public pools.

Memberships will be available for a monthly fee with more information available at okc.gov/parks

Enjoy colorful public art.

One hallway in the new center will be dedicated to showcasing art from local students and artists. Some of the first pieces that will be on display were created by students from Douglass High School. Councilwoman Nice also plans to engage local artists to help decorate the interior of the facility.

Connect to the community.

Physically, new pathways will connect the center to the nearby Douglass Park and its soon-to-be-renovated baseball field. The park and field are just steps away from the James E. Stewart Golf Course, which Johnson was involved in reopening during her time on city council.

Community connections will also be built inside the center.

“We have dedicated staff who love working with youth of all ages and can mentor them on their path progressing toward college or career,” said Williams. “And youth can interact with professional people in the community who can help mentor and guide them in their path.”

For more information about the Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center, grand opening events or supporting the center through the endowment, visit okc.gov/parks

IS HERE

OKLAHOMA’S LIFELINE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

BY ERIN PAGE

Parents today are more focused on their family’s mental wellness than ever before, embracing the mindset that seeking help for mental health should be just as normalized as going to the doctor when our bodies are ill or hurt.

And just as parents teach our kids to call 911 in an emergency, families now have another three-digit number to call when they need mental health support. 988 is Oklahoma’s new mental health lifeline, providing resources and aid in the midst of mental health crises or to help to prevent them. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services oversees 988 as part of its comprehensive crisis response system.

How can 988 help my family?

While 988 does field a large number of calls related to self-harm or suicide, resources and services extend beyond these types of crises. Callers can discuss their own mental health struggles or those of someone they know or love.

Parents can call or text to get help with a wide range of situations for themselves, their children and other loved ones including: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship and family problems, self harm, suicidal thoughts, paranoia and psychosis, emotional distress, financial stress, stress surrounding sexual orientation, loneliness and more.

Some examples of why local parents could call 988 include, but are not limited to:

• Your child is refusing to go to school or come out of their room and/or showing signs of depression.

• Your child is displaying behaviors that are alarming, has had a run-in with law enforcement or is hanging out with others who are a negative influence on their behavior or self-esteem.

“When parents don’t have the range or resources to support a mental health crisis or they are seeing persistent or alarming behaviors, we are here to respond and provide stabilization,” said Sheamekah Williams, director of children, youth and family services for ODMHSAS. “We also believe in prevention and intervention. We don’t want kids to have to wait until they are in a crisis state to get help.”

What is 988?

When individuals call or text 988, they are connected with trained behavioral health professionals who can help with mental health emergencies, provide guidance for a mental health situation, connect callers with local resources or provide insight on how to navigate concerns for a friend or loved one.

The free, confidential, nationwide service is available 24/7/365 to people of all ages. The number replaces the 11-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number after mental health and suicide prevention advocates asked Congress for an easier-to-remember number for individuals in crisis.

About 80 percent of individuals across the nation who call or text 988 get the help they need over the phone (and here in Oklahoma, more than 90 percent of individuals get the help they need over the phone, according to ODMHSAS). But for those who need additional professional help, dispatchers or mobile crisis teams can set up appointments and arrange transportation to nearby Urgent Care and Crisis Centers for rehabilitation services, counseling, medically supervised detox, psychiatric emergency intervention and inpatient care.

While some safety and health issues may warrant a response from law enforcement and/or Emergency Medical Services (namely when a suicide attempt is in progress), the 988 coordinated response is meant to promote stabilization and care in the least restrictive or invasive manner.

• Your child is exhibiting self-harm behaviors or you find disturbing information or evidence that they may be engaged in self harm.

• You or your child needs self-care resources or coping strategies to help with anxiety, depression or any other mental health condition.

• You’d like to set up a same-day or next-day appointment with your closest mental health provider, for you or your child.

• You are witnessing a loved one or community member experiencing a mental health crisis.

• You or a loved one needs an appointment at and/or transportation to a nearby Urgent Care and Crisis Center that can provide rehabilitation services, counseling, medically supervised detox, psychiatric emergency intervention and inpatient care.

• Any situation you deem as a mental health crisis for yourself, a loved one or a community member OR for which you need resources or support to keep the situation from becoming a crisis.

Know the signs

One in 10 Oklahoma students attempted suicide in the past 12 months, according to ODMHSAS. Know these important warning signs that suggest an individual is at risk for suicide:

• Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves

• Researching ways to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

• Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain

• Talking about being a burden to others

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Acting anxious or agitated or behaving recklessly

• Sleeping too little or too much

• Withdrawing or isolating themselves

• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

• Extreme mood swings

If you are concerned someone you know or love is considering ending their life, call or text 988 and a local operator will guide you in how to safely help. If you or someone you know needs urgent help, call 911.

988 in Oklahoma

The 988 Mental Health Lifeline launched in Oklahoma in July 2022. When individuals with an Oklahoma-based area code call or text, they are connected with mental health professionals here in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma operators have fielded more than 22,000 calls since the lifeline went live six months ago, according to Solari Crisis and Human Services, the operator of the local 988 call center. January 2023 saw the largest number of calls in a month to date, with 3,466 calls received. A little more than a fourth of calls related to self-harm or suicide, 16 percent to coordination of care and 16 percent to depression.

Metro parents can take extra comfort in knowing when they call they will be connected with local, trained behavioral health therapists experienced in helping children and youth. If families need more help than can be provided over the phone, a mobile crisis team, also experienced in working with children and youth, can be deployed to the home so trained professionals can help deescalate, stabilize and provide resources to support the situation and family. While 988 is new, Oklahoma’s statewide mobile crisis teams

available for children and youth through ODMHSAS have been providing critical services for the past five years.

“Our model is a gold standard for other states in terms of mobilizing crisis teams for children and youth,” said Heath Holt Hayes, chief communications officer for ODMHSAS. “When parents don’t know what to do or how to cope, these treatment providers not only stabilize the situation in that moment, they also help set up longer term care.”

Editor’s note: This article is the first in a 10-month series of articles and podcasts with ODMHSAS. Find the full series at metrofamilymagazine.com/mental-health

The 988 Mental Health Lifeline is designated as a three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The 988 Mental Health Lifeline operates 24/7 and offers services for mental health crisis calls. Operators are licensed and certified health crisis specialists who answer calls, connect to and dispatch local services and mobile crisis teams. For more information, visit 988Oklahoma.com.

SPONSORED BY

Healthy OKC

Take the Family Wellness Challenge as you explore the metro this spring

BY CHRISTINA MUSHI-BRUNT

Community Parks and Recreation Centers

Local community parks and recreation departments are a wellness treasure trove. From one-time events to ongoing programs, you are sure to find something for the whole family.

OKC Parks and Edmond Parks

Both OKC Parks and Edmond Parks offer many programs at their recreation centers for free or at minimal cost.

• Challenge: Work out at one of the recreation centers that has a fitness center complete with free weights and cardio equipment. The cost to you is as little as $2 per day or $10 per month to enjoy single facilities, or purchase a ParksFitPass for access to Foster, Schilling and Pete White Health and Wellness centers’ fitness room equipment.

• Challenge: Adult family members ages 50 and over can enjoy the health and wellness benefits of free classes such as gentle yoga, seated hula or Tai Chi at OKC Parks’ Will Rogers Senior Center.

Like countless others coming out of the height of the global pandemic, I found myself in poorer physical health, plus my mental wellness needed to become more of a priority. A pre-diabetes diagnosis last year nudged me to make some personal and family health changes. I started with changing my eating habits, practicing mindfulness and simply moving more. By the end of the year, I could see and feel the impact these changes had on our family’s physical health and mental wellness.

As a family, we have become more intentional about taking care of our health. I am now nearly 40 pounds lighter and enjoy better mental health. I am also a more active, engaged and emotionally well mama and wife.

As parents, we can serve as role models for our kids by prioritizing our own health and well-being. The OKC metro is loaded with opportunities that are not only fun for the family but that also promote health. Let’s look at some places your family can visit with wellness in mind. How many of these Family Wellness Challenges can your family complete? Take some photos, share and tag us at #mfmwellnesschallenge!

• Challenge: For your athletic child, Pitt Recreation Center offers free weekly clinics in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, tennis and volleyball. These clinics can help your child improve their skills regardless of whether they are on an organized or school sports team; they’re also great if you are simply looking for a way to get your child moving more. Added bonuses: making new friends and having fun are great for kids’ mental health!

PHOTOS AND ARTICLE

ENJOY THE SPORTS COURTS IN THE NEWLY OPENED SOUTHERN SECTION OF SCISSORTAIL PARK.

EXPLORE OKC’S STREET ART – INCLUDING OUR FAVORITE BRICKTOWN OKCTOPUS CREATED BY JACK FOWLER!

• Challenge: New to hiking? Register your family for the free Day Hiking class in Edmond Parks’ Trail 13 series. The whole family can learn the basics of hiking and end the program with a short, guided hike into the woods. Classes are held monthly at Edmond Park; preregister at edmondparks.com

Curious about accessibility at local parks? Find five parks that are the perfect destinations for inclusive, active play for children of all abilities at metrofamilymagazine.com/equal-play-5-okc-playgroundsfor-all-abilities

Public Libraries

Have you heard of bibliotherapy? Also known as book therapy, the practice involves using reading materials to work through problems, reduce stress and promote mental health. Reading can help give insight into your emotions and can even serve as a source of comfort when you are going through difficult times.

The Metropolitan Library System and Pioneer Library System

Both local library systems are filled with thousands of reading materials for your family to engage in some bibliotherapy, plus they offer free classes focused on health, fitness and wellness.

• Challenge: Help your child find a fictional book about an emotion they are feeling. Talk about how the main character worked through those emotions.

• Challenge: Take your child to a weekly library story time. Teens and adults in the family can join a monthly book club. The social interaction that comes with participating in these activities can benefit mental health.

• Challenge: Register to participate in a free Brain Health Program through the Pioneer Library System. This interactive program shows how art activities can improve mental health.

• Challenge: Attend a free wellness-focused class at your local library. Programs are available for all ages and include strength training, Pilates, yoga and even line dancing. Ideas include:

• For adults: register for an eight-week interactive Total Wellness Program or take a Tai Chi class through the Metropolitan Library System.

• For kids PreK and under: enjoy a weekly session of Read & Romp or Wiggly Wednesdays for some natural active play at Metropolitan Library System locations.

• For school-aged kids: sign up for a weekly hip hop, breaking and street dance series, a Just Dance Tournament with prizes and even a Social Media Dance Challenge and Dance Party through the Metropolitan Library System.

• For the whole family: Practice yoga together at a weekly Get Moving Family Yoga class through the Pioneer Library System.

• For ages 5 and up: register to participate in an interactive and hands-on healthy eating series like Eat Smart through PLS or the After School Snack series through MLS. These classes are grouped into age ranges with some specifically for children 5 to 11 years old, some for teens only and a few that the whole family can enjoy together.

The IBH Di erence!

Of ten behind behavioral and emotional issues are undiagnosed learning disabilities, developmental and neurological conditions .

Using evidence-based diagnostic and assessment tools, we gather meaningful information about all areas of development, we will help determine the "why" behind the behaviors.

We have highly trained multi-disciplinary intake and assessment clinicians that look across multiple areas of developmental, emotional, and neurological functioning to determine best treatment options.

Museums

When you think about visiting museums, you usually think of it as an educational leisure activity. However, research suggests museums can have beneficial effects on physical and mental health by reducing stress, anxiety and even blood pressure. On those days when the family stress level is high, get out and visit one of these local attractions.

Science Museum Oklahoma

This attraction is a family favorite for education and fun. Walking around the museum is also a great way to get some steps for the day.

• Challenge: fun fitness challenges in the Power Play exhibit. Which family member has the highest vertical jump? Who has the best balance? Who can reach the top of the climbing wall?

Oklahoma Contemporary

Looking at and creating art is great for the mind. It can change your mood, make you think or simply calm you. Oklahoma Contemporary offers guests the opportunity to view and create artwork that engages the senses and sparks creativity.

• Challenge: Walk around the indoor exhibits and then create your own works of art in the Learning Gallery. Next, go outside to get some steps in by strolling around the museum grounds to view the Art Garden and Campbell Art Park exhibits. These indoor and outdoor activities can enhance your family’s mental and physical well-being. Discuss how each of

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art

Located in Norman on the campus of the University of Oklahoma, the Fred is home to a collection of more than 20,000 objects, plus the museum showcases temporary exhibits throughout the year.

• Challenge: Explore SYNESTHESIA, an immersive special exhibit by Factory Obscura. Make connections between art and the mind by talking about which pieces made each of you feel the calmest or the happiest and why. Admission is

Outdoor Fitness

RIVERSPORT OKC

This downtown OKC destination is filled with plenty of opportunities for your family to play and try out activities that push comfort zones!

• Challenge: Bring the family to MetroFamily’s OKC Thrive Fest at RIVERSPORT OKC on Saturday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a day filled with health and wellness education, adventure and fun! The variety of activities for all ages will inspire your family to get moving toward fitness and wellness. Admission to this event is free

• Challenge: Take your family fitness to new heights in the Riversport Youth Zone. The Sky Tykes adventure ropes course gives kids a safe and controlled environment to climb, balance and navigate obstacles. And for those who want to stay closer to the ground, there is plenty of adventure to be had at the Youth Zone playground, which is always to use. Admission to the Riversport Youth Zone attractions is $9.99.

DON’T MISS THE OUTDOOR EXHIBITS AT OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY TO ENJOY THE UNIQUE ART AND GET SOME STEPS IN.

JOIN METROFAMILY FOR OKC THRIVE FEST AT RIVERSPORT OKC ON SATURDAY, MARCH 25 FROM 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

SYNESTHESIA IS AN IMMERSIVE ART EXPERIENCE AT THE FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART, WHERE ADMISSION IS ALWAYS FREE.

Scissortail Park

With 70 acres of trails, sports courts, playgrounds and even a roller skating rink, your family is sure to find opportunities to be active here.

• Challenge: Grab another family or two, a ball and some healthy snacks and then swing by to enjoy some friendly competition on the basketball court, futsal field or a few rounds of pickleball.

• Challenge: Check out the park’s free weekly wellness programs such as Yoga in the Park to engage your body and mind.

Street Art

Did you know USA Today listed Oklahoma City as the No. 1 city for street art in 2022? Walking around the city to see murals is a great way to get some exercise as well as enjoy some cool art!

• Challenge: Explore some of the city’s most well-known public art by downloading

MetroFamily’s Street Art Scavenger Hunt at metrofamilymagazine. com/street-art-scavenger-hunt

• Challenge: Put on some walking shoes and hit the pavement to find your favorite street art. One of our family favorites is the 200 foot by 25 foot Bricktown OKCtopus created by Jack Fowler located behind the Chevy Events Center at 429 E. California Ave. in Oklahoma City. How many of the 88 hidden objects in the octopus can your family find?

YOUR Family Wellness Journey

Use these challenges to start your own family wellness journey or create your own list. We’d love to see what you come up with! Take some photos, share and tag us at #mfmwellnesschallenge.

“You look a little tire-d, can I give you a lift?”

FIND THE HIDDEN OBJECTS IN BRICKTOWN OKCTOPUS BY JACK FOWLER.

THE VARIETY OF PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT ENGAGES ALL AGES AT SCISSORTAIL PARK.

Let’s Play!

BY LINDSAY CUOMO PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Play is fundamental for kids of all ages — and for parents, too! According to Nicole Kanelakos, director of education services at Sunbeam Family Services, “Play is the work of childhood and the key to overall healthy development.” Kanelakos’ colleague Amy Chlouber, director for mental health services, adds that play is how kids learn about themselves and the world around them.

CurioCity

at Science Museum Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY

Science Museum Oklahoma is full of unexpected surprises and one of the biggest just might be the whimsical children’s museum inside! CurioCity is a unique “village” where families can explore the wonderful world of science within eight over-the-top “neighborhoods,” each with its own personality. From a kid-sized theater and a neighborhood garage to a circus with a human-powered carousel and an elaborate cave that is home to a dinosaur dig, families can explore complex scientific concepts in this hands-on, fanciful world.

A play on words, Odd-A-See Tower is a two-story climber that cultivates the processes of perception, wayfinding and risk-taking inside a climbable playground. A music studio called Riff & Rhythms offers repurposed materials for visitors to investigate sound, pitch and rhythm. There is even a huge space for water play (warning – prepare to get very wet!). All of these hands-on, interactive features prove that learning should be all about having fun — and a lot of it.

Children’s museums are an amped up way to engage the whole family in a day of play, so check out these four close-to-home options.

While CurioCity was designed for ages 8 and under, the ample engaging activities and creative touches delight all ages.

Science Museum Oklahoma is open daily and CurioCity is included with the price of admission. Regular single-day admission is $20.95 for ages 13 to 64 and $15.95 for seniors 65 and up and kids ages 3 to 12. Kids 2 and under are free.

“They are developing the skills necessary for how they are going to navigate the world into adulthood,” explained Chlouber.

4 children’s museums to explore close to home and around the state

WUNDERGROUND CAVE AT SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA

SPARK PARK PHYSICS CIRCUS AT SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA

Jasmine Moran

Children’s Museum SEMINOLE

In the late 1980s, Melvin and Jasmine Moran took their kids to visit a children’s museum on a family vacation. The couple decided to bring that magic back to their hometown of Seminole, Okla. With the help of several others in the community, the Morans opened Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum in 1993. The museum has since welcomed families with interactive, career-focused exhibits that encourage kids to step into a variety of professions.

“The core of our museum is focused on open-ended play and careercentered exhibits,” said Eileen Castle, the museum’s executive director.

Kids can “work” in a courtroom, construction site, fire station, hospital, news station and much more. They recently renovated several areas, including one of their most popular attractions – a grocery store exhibit that now also includes a pizzeria. Other new additions include a veterinary hospital and performing arts theater complete with props, light and sound booths, backstage areas and even a ticket booth.

Renovations are underway outside as well to add a children’s garden, petting zoo, climbing structures, a zipline and a water and sand area, all of which are expected to open this summer. The SuperSONIC Express, a rideable train, will continue to run during construction, weather permitting, making its half-mile loop around the museum’s outdoor play areas.

Within the new additions are opportunities that encourage parents to play, too.

“It enriches the parent-child relationship when a parent is willing to engage in child-led activities, but sometimes parents have forgotten how to play,” said Castle. “We want parents to know it is not only OK but encouraged for them to join in. We put prompts around the museum to help guide and encourage parents.”

Jasmine Moran is open Tuesday through Sunday and admission is $10 for ages 3 to 59, $9 for 60 and older and free for kids 2 and under. Tickets to ride the SuperSONIC Express are $2.

SUPER SERVICE CENTER

PETTING ZOO

WORK IN THE NEWLY ADDED VETERINARY CLINIC (ABOVE) OR CONSTRUCTION SITE IN MABEE’S KID TOWN (BELOW).

PHOTOS BY JEREMY CAUSEY AND JASMINE MORAN CHILDREN’S MUSEUM STAFF

WATER WORKS IN ROESLER FAMILY EXHIBIT HALL

THE NEWLY UPDATED GROCERY STORE IN MABEE’S KID TOWN ALSO INCLUDE A PIZZARIA (BELOW).

Discovery Lab TULSA

Originally known as a museum without walls, Discovery Lab opened a brand new 57,000-square-foot science center adjacent to the award-winning community park The Gathering Place. The museum moved from its previous location at Owen Park, bringing along one of its most iconic features: the “Taj Mahal” of tape tunnels that includes a two-story, 34-foot slide crafted entirely of ordinary packing tape.

These towering tunnels “encourage high-energy play to prepare young minds for deeper thinking areas ahead,” explained Dr. Ray Vandiver, the museum’s executive director.

Nearby the tape tunnels in the Central Gallery is a vertical maze made of nets and barrels to climb, too!

“Our main educational philosophy is that both cognitive and physical learning are connected,” shared Vandiver. “We made sure our museum was a full-body, immersive learning experience.”

Another active experience in the museum, Ballapalooza was inspired by the oil and gas history of our state. This collaborative exhibit is filled with simple machines that move balls to a replica of an oil derrick. Once full, the derrick rains its contents (soft foam balls) onto the exhibit floor and the visitors playing.

The Energy gallery, Imaginarium, HydroLab and Math and Music areas encourage visitors of all ages to explore, discover and test their knowledge of a variety of scientific principles, Vandiver shared. Explore water and its various states, immerse yourself in four Oklahoma landscapes that respond to your movement, witness the physics of sound and more.

Then, pull all that learning together in the hands-on labs! Science Lab offers guided-inquiry projects based on a monthly theme and activity of the day. The Workshop is a makerspace that invites families to use tools and unique materials to solve a presented challenge. For example, families might be charged with creating a piece of clothing out of cardboard. Vandiver adds that there is “no right answer” and creativity is not only encouraged but essential. Little Lab is for kids 4 and under and their parents or caregivers.

“Discovery Lab is designed for the entire family with an emphasis on co-play and co-learning,” said Vandiver. “The experience is

intended to be unique, which is why we focus on things you can’t find anywhere else.”

Discovery Lab is open daily, and they offer a sensory-friendly family time on the second Sunday of each month. Admission is $12 for ages 2 and up. Teachers are free with a current school staff ID.

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum

Founded by an artist and an astronaut and named after the famous 15th century artist and scientist Leonardo da Vinci, Leonardo’s Children’s Museum opened in 1995. That’s when Enid natives Helen Walker Garriott and scientist-astronaut Owen K. Garriot set out to convert an empty warehouse into a world-class children’s museum. “They had a vision to inspire kids with art and science,” said Riley Jantzen, the museum’s director of marketing and public relations.

With the help of 12,000 volunteers, one year later, Leonardo’s opened Adventure Quest, an outdoor science playground. The three-story wooden castle includes bridges, slides, swings, mazes, a water table, dinosaur dig and Tot Lot. It is the world’s largest community-built outdoor playground.

“Adventure Quest is our biggest and most well-known feature,” said Jantzen. “I have been coming (to Adventure Quest) since it opened and I feel like just last year got [through it all].”

TODDLER AREA

EXHIBITS IN THE CENTRAL GALLERY ENCOURAGE FULL-BODY LEARNING.

TOWERING TAPE TUNNELS ARE CRAFTED WITH ORDINARY PACKING TAPE.

GET HANDS-ON IN INTERACTIVE LABS.

In 2015, the museum’s indoor attractions underwent a major remodel, doubling the amount of exhibit space for families to explore. Today, families can see animal habitats, create on a giant Lite-Brite, care for patients in the pretend medical clinic, tinker with real tools and more. Power Tower, a two-story climbing structure, introduces the energy principles of oil, natural gas, wind and solar power with interactive elements throughout.

There is also a toddler area and exhibit space for rotating exhibits from the Oklahoma Museum Network. Jantzen says the museum is perfectly sized for a day of play.

“We are a really good size for families to spend a day here,” said Jantzen. “You can take it all in and not feel like you missed out on anything.”

Leonardo’s is open Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $11.99 for ages 2 and up. The museum hosts a sensory-sensitive playgroup on the second Tuesday of the month during the school year.

Editor’s note: Science Museum Oklahoma, Leonardo’s and Jasmine Moran are part of the Oklahoma Museum Network, a collaboration funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. The network provides traveling interactive science exhibits, professional development opportunities and educational outreach events. Participating museums offer a passport program to their members. If you have a membership to a participating museum and present a current membership card, you can receive a 20 percent discount on general admission for up to 5 people per day.

IMAGINATIVE EXHIBITS IMMERSE VISITORS IN REAL-WORLD LEARNING.

PHOTOS BY RILEY JANTZEN

ADVENTURE QUEST

#okcfamilyfun

MARCH 25

MetroFamily’s OKC Thrive Fest at RIVERSPORT OKC (800 Riversport Dr) features a local celebration of family health and wellness. Connect with local resources in the areas of physical health, mental wellness, nutrition and safety and take part in fun activities to challenge all family members. All ages welcome. Free to attend; parking, $5; VIP activity wristband, $25. 10am-2pm. Preregister at metrofamilymagazine.com

Things to Do in March and April

Jurassic Quest at State Fair Park Bennett Event Center (3101 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features an interactive adventure with realistic dinosaurs, dinosaur-themed rides and attractions, dinosaur shows and more. Adults, $24; kids (2-12), $24-$39. Friday, noon-8pm; Saturday, 9am-8pm; Sunday, 9am-6pm. jurassicquest.com

MARCH 11

MARCH 14

FREE Family Game Night at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a variety of board games, card games, puzzles and more for a range of ages. 6-8pm. metrolibrary.org

MARCH 17

THROUGH MARCH 11

Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn at Lyric Theatre (1727 NW 16th St) features a tale of friendship against all odds recreated for young audiences as two best friends demonstrate the power children have to change the world. $20 & up. See website for show times. lyrictheatreokc.com

MARCH 5-26

FREE Metro Grows – Raising Your Own Backyard Chickens at Metropolitan Libraries (various locations). Learn the basics of caring for these fun and friendly pets with local backyard chicken expert Sara Braden. A few local hens will join this outdoor class. All ages welcome. See website for times and locations. metrolibrary.org/metrogrows

MARCH 7

Little Scientists at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) explores science concepts through stories, songs, games, crafts and museum exploration. For ages 3-5 with an adult. Preregister. $15-$20 per adult/child pair; $10 for each additional child. 9:30-11am. Also held: March 21, April 18 & 25. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

MARCH 10

FREE LIVE! On the Pawza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features a pet-themed event with local artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more. 6-10pm. plazadistrict.org

MARCH 10-12

IndigiPopX at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features a Native pop culture festival with special guests, vendors and programming. All ages welcome. $25 & up. Friday & Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. indigipopx.com

St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Stockyards City (S Agnew Ave) features a celebration with a combination of Irish and Western heritage. See marching bands, bagpipes, Irish dancers, cool cars and more. 10am. stockyardscity.org

Te Ata film screening and discussion at Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr). Plus, hear from a speaker with the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Preregister. Free to attend. noon-2pm. okhistory.org

sham-ROCK the Gardens: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features Irish food vendors, music by some of Oklahoma’s best Irish bands and more. Free to attend. 11am-2pm. myriadgardens.org

MARCH 18

Make Ready Market in Midtown (220 NW 13th St) features an outdoor market with an assortment of locally made goods including clothing, flowers, skin care products, vintage items, jewelry, art, pottery and food. Free to attend. 11am-4pm. Also held: April 22. facebook.com/makereadymarket

FREE Heard on Hurd Street Fest in downtown Edmond (Broadway between 1st St & Hurd Ave, Edmond) features local food, unique shopping and live music. 6-10pm. Also held: April 15. mycitizens.bank/heard-on-hurd

MARCH 19

AT&T Sundays at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd). Kids ages 4-12 receive free admission to the museum galleries on the third Sunday of the month. 11am-5pm. Also held: April 16. famok.org

FREE Second Saturday XL: Eat Your Art Out at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features food-focused art-making, engaging performances and appetizing activities. 1-4pm. oklahomacontemporary.org

Acoustic Rooster’s Barnyard Boogie McKnight Center for the Performing Arts (705 W University Blvd, Stillwater) features a musical adaptation of two children’s books, Acoustic Rooster Blume. Hear a story about being brave and believing in yourself. Best suited for ages 5 & up. $20. 3pm. mcknightcenter.org

MARCH 12-28

FREE Metro Grows – Spring Gardening for Beginners at Metropolitan Libraries (various locations). Learn about how to start a garden of any size, the correct tools to use, proper soil testing and how to plant seeds and harvest. All ages welcome. See website for times and locations. metrolibrary.org/metrogrows

MARCH/APRIL CALENDAR

MARCH 22-APRIL 2

Disney’s Frozen at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features the timeless tale of a family pulled apart by a mysterious secret. The production features the songs you know and love from the original Oscar®winning film, plus an expanded score with a dozen new numbers by the film’s songwriters. Best suited for ages 6 & up. $36 & up. See website for show times. okcbroadway.com

MARCH 23-26

India Shrine Circus at Jim Norick Arena (333 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features live animals, aerial and acrobatics acts, clowns and more. Proceeds benefit India Shrine Center. In advance: adults, $15; kids (12 & under), $10; plus $2.50 per ticket at the door. Thursday & Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 10am, 2pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2 & 7pm. oklahomacircustickets.com

MARCH 25

Harlem Globetrotters at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features interactive family entertainment with amazing feats of basketball, humor and acts of goodwill on and off the court. $20 & up. 2 & 7pm. paycomcenter.com

MARCH 25-APRIL 1

Just Between Friends Consignment Sale at State Fair Park Pavilion (3212 Wichita Walk) features gently used toys, clothes, shoes and baby supplies at bargains up to 90% off retail prices. Saturday presale, $10-$20; Sunday, $5; no admission charged for other days. See website sale times. okc.jbfsale.com

MARCH 29-APRIL 2

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. at Sooner Theatre (101 W Main St, Norman) features a youthful adaptation of the original Broadway production. $15. See website for show times. soonertheatre.org

MARCH 31-APRIL 2

Medieval Fair of Norman at Reaves Park (2501 Jenkins Ave, Norman) features arts, crafts, food, games, educational exhibits, demonstrations and ongoing entertainment. Free to attend. 10am-7pm. medievalfair.org

APRIL 1

FREE Arcadia Lake Sweep at Spring Creek Park (SE 15th St, Edmond) features a volunteer opportunity to help clean up the lakeshore. Participants will receive a t-shirt and hot dog lunch while supplies last. 8-11am. arcadialakeok.com

FREE Learn About Poetry with the Society of Urban Poets at the Ralph Ellison Library (2000 NW 23rd St). Study and write the different genres of poetry. Best suited for teens & adults. 11am-1pm. metrolibrary.org

APRIL 2

Thunder Ride and Bike Fest at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features a 10mile ride through downtown Oklahoma City, followed by an opportunity to see world-class BMX riders with a meetand-greet autograph session. $50 & up. 1-4:30pm. nba.com/thunder/thunderride

APRIL 3

FREE Rex Finds His Roar Story Time at the Ralph Ellison Library (2000 NW 23rd St) features a reading of the book about body safety and empowerment. Best suited for ages 12 & under. 10-11am. metrolibrary.org

APRIL 15

The Alice Harn Art Show at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features a oneday, show-and-sell art event with local artists, Harn House tours, a children’s art contest, live demonstrations and more. Free with admission. 11am-4pm. harnhomestead.com

FREE Dino Egg Hunt at the Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave). Help the library’s dino buddies find their eggs. All ages welcome. 1pm; weather permitting. metrolibrary.org

APRIL 15-16

Redbud Classic at Nichols Hills Plaza (Avondale & Western Ave) features bike tours, timed runs, kids’ fun run, stroller derby and more. Proceeds benefit Wings Special Needs Community. Prices vary. See website for event times. redbud.org

APRIL 16

OKCPHIL Discovery Family Series: Road Trip on Rt 66 at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a family-friendly concert designed to excite and engage children of all ages. Buckle up for a musical scenic tour along the Mother Road. $9. Preconcert activities, 1pm; concert, 2pm. okcphil.org

APRIL 18

Sensory Playdate at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features a sensory-friendly playtime with activities designed for all abilities. Free with admission. 10am-noon. nationalcowboymuseum.org

APRIL 19

Day of Remembrance at the Oklahoma City National Memorial (620 N Harvey) features a remembrance program including 168 seconds of silence and reading of the 168 names of those who were killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. Free to attend. 8:45-10am. memorialmuseum.com

APRIL 21-22

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a live orchestra film experience. See a giant high-definition screening of the film with the score performed by a live orchestra. $57 & up. Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2 & 8pm. okcciviccenter.com

APRIL 22

OKC Daddy Daughter Dance at Scissortail Park Sky Rink (655 S Robinson Ave) features a “You Are My Sunshine” themed dance with refreshments, a DJ, photo booth, cotton candy, horse-drawn carriage rides and a craft. $40 per parent/child pair; $15 each additional child. 2:30-4pm, 5-6:30pm & 7:30-9pm. okc.gov/parksignup

APRIL 25-30

Festival of the Arts at Bicentennial Park (500 Couch Dr) features performing arts entertainment, visual arts and an array of sweet and savory foods from a variety of restaurants. Benefits Arts Council OKC. Free to attend. Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-9pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm. artscouncilokc.com

APRIL 28-29

Marvel Studios’ Black Panther in Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a one-of-a-kind experience for the entire family performed with live music. $27 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org

APRIL 28-30

Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave) features a kids’ marathon, marathon, half marathon and Memorial 5k. Prices vary. See website for event times. okcmarathon.com

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Learn about the OLA difference and how your teen can benefit by visiting our website. You can even sign your student up for a Shadow Day so they can experience the OLA difference.

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MARCH/APRIL CALENDAR

Spring Break

#okcfamilyfun

MARCH 14-19

FREE Family Discovery Week at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features daily art-making activities, special screenings of New York International Children’s Film Festival Kid Flicks and story time with the Metropolitan Library System. Visit a Metropolitan Library location through March 19 to get a free admission pass for adults while supplies last; kids 17 & under are always free. TuesdaySaturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am8pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com

MARCH 15

FREE Junior Ranger Program at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave). Complete a series of activities during your visit to the Memorial, share your answers with a park ranger and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. 11am-2pm. memorialmuseum.com

MARCH 13

Rescue Dogs Demonstration at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave) features a demonstration of rescue dogs in action. Meet the dogs and trainers and enjoy half-price admission to the museum. Adults, $7.50; kids (6-17), $6; kids (5 & under), free. Demonstrations are at 10am, noon & 2pm. memorialmuseum.com

MARCH 13-17

Spring Break Drop-in Activities at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features familyfriendly activities inspired by the exhibitions on display, including clothespin puppets and dioramas. Free with admission while supplies last. 10am-2pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org/kids

Spring Break Pop-ins at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features handson activities and come-and-go experiences including stories, crafts and other adventures suited to each day’s theme. Best suited for ages 3-12; all ages welcome. Donations accepted. 10am-noon. myriadgardens.org

FREE Spring Break STEAM Activities at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features creative and engaging programs designed to introduce concepts and develop skills related to STEAM. Each day features a different activity. 3:30 & 6:30pm. metrolibrary.org

MARCH 14-18

FREE Three Sisters Spring Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur) features a celebration of spring and the planting of essential crops through Chickasaw culture, language, demonstrations and various activities. 10am-5pm. chickasawculturalcenter.com

MARCH 15-17

FREE Spring Thing! at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features spring-themed activities, crafts and more for the family to enjoy. The first 100 guests will get a special gift. All ages welcome. Wednesday-Friday, 10am-2pm, plus Thursday, 5-8pm. oklahomahof.com

MARCH 17

FREE Escape Room: The Lock of the Irish at The Village Library (10307 N Penn Ave) features a themed escape room. Preregister, space is limited. Best suited for ages 11-18. 1:30 & 2:45pm. metrolibrary.org

OKLAHOMA CITY NATIONAL MEMORIAL & MUSEUM

Camp

Registration:

Statewide Spring Festivals

APRIL 27-29

FREE Norman Music Festival in downtown Norman (Main St, Norman) features dozens of performers providing music, art and entertainment. See website for schedule. normanmusicfestival.com

APRIL 28-29

Red Fern Festival in downtown Tahlequah (Muskogee Ave, Tahlequah) features a festival inspired by the renowned novel “Where the Red Fern Grows” with hound dog field trials, children’s activities, a car show, live music and more. Free to attend. See website for schedule of events. tahlequahmainstreet.com

APRIL 8-9

MARCH 11

FREE Holba’ Pisachi’ Native Film Festival at Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur) features documentaries and feature films, plus Q&A forums, discussion panels and meet-and-greet opportunities with filmmakers and cast members. 10am9pm. chickasawculturalcenter.com

MARCH 24-26

Guthrie Renaissance Faire at Cottonwood Flats (308 N 5th St, Guthrie) features food, art, live entertainment and more. Costumes encouraged. Adults, $10-$12; kids (5-13), $5; kids (4 & under), free. Friday, 3-9pm; Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. guthrierenfair.com

MARCH 25

Chuck Wagon Gathering at the Chisholm Trail Museum (605 Zellers Ave, Kingfisher) features a variety of working chuck wagons, live music with Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe Road, cooking demonstrations, gunfights, Wild West Show performers, medicine man shows, Annie Oakley performances and more. Free with museum admission. 10am-3pm. okhistory.org

APRIL 1

FREE Made in Oklahoma Festival in downtown Seminole (Main St, Seminole) features food, wine, crafts and a number of other products that are Oklahoma grown and Oklahoma made. Free to attend. 10am-4pm. facebook. com/SeminoleChamberofCommerce

Tulip Festival at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features 30,000+ tulip blossoms plus creative displays, classes, musical performances, activities for kids and more. Free to attend. 10am-5pm. myriadgardens.org

APRIL 14-15

Spring Traders Encampment at Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve (1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd, Bartlesville) features a historic encampment with tents and teepees to recreate the rugged pioneer life. Free with admission. 10am-5pm. woolaroc.org

APRIL 19-22

89ers Day Celebration in downtown Guthrie (various locations) features a parade, carnival, rodeo and a host of other community events. Most events are free to attend. See website for schedule of events. 89erdays.com

APRIL 21-22

FREE Stillwater Arts Festival in downtown Stillwater (1001 S Duck St, Stillwater) features juried artists, a food court, artist demonstrations, children’s activity area and live entertainment. Free to attend. Friday, noon-8pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm. artscenter.okstate.edu

APRIL 22

FREE Steamroller Print Fest at Artspace at Untitled (1 NE 3rd St) features live music, food trucks, popup shops, family-friendly activities, a children’s tent, artist demonstrations and more. 10am-6pm. 1ne3.org

MAY 5-7

FREE oNE OKC Weekend at Booker T. Washington Park (NE 4th St) features an entire weekend of events for the whole family, including a block party with live entertainment, food trucks, children’s activities and more. Saturday block party, 10am-7pm. neokcr.org/oneokc

FREE Rose Rock Music Festival in downtown Noble (304 S Main St, Noble) features live music, a carnival, parade, car show and more. Free to attend. Friday, 5:30-10pm; Saturday, 10am-11pm; Sunday, 10:30am-3pm. nobleok.org

MAY 6

FREE El Reno Fried Onion Burger Day Festival in downtown El Reno (119 S Rock Island Ave, El Reno) features the cooking of an 850 pound fried onion burger, vendors, live music, games, rides, food trucks, classic car/motorcycle show and more. Free to attend. 10am-6pm. elrenoburgerday.com

Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park (2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon) features a familyfriendly festival with more than 50 areas of fun, including kayaking, pony rides, painting, inflatables, crafts and more. Best suited for ages 12 & under. $5 in advance, $7 day of; adults, free. 10am-4pm. yukonok.gov

Summer Camp

COLLEGE FOR KIDS

•7 Weeks of learning and fun

•Large selection of classes

•Many STEM based classes

•Full day and half day options available

•Before and aftercare available

Enrollment opens on April 17th

For more information, visit occc.edu/summercamp

KIDVATION GLOBAL

Museum Exhibits

Closing Soon

THROUGH MARCH 27

FREE Thinking Money for Kids at the Norman Public Library Central (103 W Acres St, Norman) features a new multimedia experience for children ages 7-11 that uses games, activities and a fun storyline to help children understand what money is and its function in society. Monday-Thursday, 9am9pm; Friday, 9am-8pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. pioneerlibrarysystem.org

THROUGH MARCH 31

FREE Voices from the Drum at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features 20 drums, fine art and a digital display highlighting the important role of the instruments within the Osage community. MondayFriday, 10am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm; closed Tuesday. famok.org

THROUGH APRIL 6

FREE Tulip Mania at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a community-sourced exhibit with professional and amateur artists from all over Oklahoma. Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. myriadgardens.org

THROUGH APRIL 9

Abbas Kiarostami: Beyond the Frame Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a multimedia, retrospective survey of artworks by the acclaimed Iranian filmmaker, photographer and visual artist. Adults, $14.95; kids (17 & under), free. Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, until 8pm; Sunday, noon-5pm.

THROUGH MAY 7

You Have Died of Dysentery at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) focuses on Westernthemed play and the often-dark realities

of history through games, books and videos after 1970. Adults, $15; students, $10; kids (6-12), $5; kids (5 & under), free. Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org

Opening soon

OPENING MARCH 1

Taking Flight: Oklahomans Explore the Skies at Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Ave) explores the first steps toward air travel as well as the remarkable ways Oklahomans have contributed to all aspects of aviation. Adults, $12.50; students, $9; kids (4 & under), free; families (up to 6 people), $35. MondaySaturday, 10am-5pm. okhistory.org

APRIL 14-16

Art in Bloom at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features floral sculpture interpretations of works from the permanent collection, all crafted by designers from the Oklahoma City community. Adults, $14.95; kids (17 & under), free. WednesdaySaturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, until 8pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com

ART IN BLOOM AT OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART

Date Night Ideas

MARCH 2-12

A Raisin in the Sun at Civic Center CitySpace Theatre (201 N Walker Ave) features a community production by OKC Parks of the award-winning drama centered on the hopes and aspirations of a struggling, working-class family living on the South Side of Chicago. See website for show times and pricing. $24 & up. okcciviccenter.com

MARCH 23

Taste of Yukon at Dale Robertson Center (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) features a delicious food extravaganza with local and surrounding area restaurants. Geared toward adults; however, all ages are welcome. Adults, $15 in advance, $17 at the door; kids (10 & under), $10. 5:30-7:30pm. yukonok.gov

APRIL 8

Oklahoma Brewer’s Fest at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 Mickey Mantle Dr). Sample a selection from more than 100 beers released exclusively for the event from more than 40 Oklahoma breweries. For ages 21 & up. $50 & up. Noon-3pm & 5-8pm. craftbeerok.org/brewers-fest

Pistol Pete and Boomer may not see eye to eye on all things, but there’s one thing we can all agree on:

Cool,

WATER

WATER

refreshing

Cool, refreshing

is the best way to hydrate!

Spring at The Cowboy

Kids Take over The Cowboy

First Saturday of the Month

10:00 a.m. – Noon with Storytime at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy activities organized especially for kids relating to current events or the Museum’s latest exhibitions.

March 4 • Cereal, Cartoons and Crafts! Oh My!

April 1 • Game On!

Free for members or with Museum admission. Activities available while supplies last.

Spring Break Activities

March 13 – 17 • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Drop by and participate in family friendly activities. Create a different make-and-take craft each day.

March 13 • Clothespin Puppets

March 14 • Fingerprint Art

March 15 • Spring Scratch Art

March 16 • Paddle Boats

March 17 • Mini Jail Diorama

Free for members or with Museum admission. Available while supplies last.

Sensory Play Date

April 18 • 10:00 a.m. – Noon

Join us for sensory-friendly playtime and learn a dance geared toward all people with all abilities under the instruction of Aspiring Attitudes dance instructors.

Free for members or with Museum admission.

Heritage Table: Women’s History

Every day in March

The West was built by strong and resilient women who you can find examples of in the Museum’s galleries. Stop by the Museum’s Heritage Table to learn about Stagecoach Mary Fields – the first Black woman mail carrier in the United States.

Free for members or with Museum admission.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

APRIL 15-16 2023

2023 BENEFICIARY

10/30-MILE CYCLING TOURS

50-MILE FONDO

1-MILE KIDS’ FUN RUN

1-MILE WOOF WALK

5K WHEELCHAIR EVENT

5K / 10K RUNS

2-MILE WALK

2-MILE BABY STROLLER DERBY REDBUD BASH

MEDIA SPONSORS

ANNIVERSARY SPONSORS

learning,friendshipcreativity, & fun

Summer Camp Guide!

Spark learning, creativity, friendship & fun with the summer camps, classes and activities included in our annual Summer Camp Guide! Whether your child loves STEAM, horseback riding, music, outdoor adventure, art or anything in between, find just the right fit in these pages.

Start with these 5

awe-inspiring camps

AMp up summer

As featured on the cover, get amped at Oklahoma Contemporary’s DJ Camp! Taught by industry leaders and artists, kids learn the basics of DJing, including equipment setups, DJ etiquette and how DJing fits in hip-hop culture. Then they get to practice dropping beats on stateof-the-art equipment and show off their new skills during the Camp Contemporary Showcase. Get more info about the variety of visual and performing arts camps for ages 5 to 12 offered at okcontemp.org/camps.

PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

N8V Fashion

Budding fashionistas draw inspiration from the galleries at First Americans Museum to imagine contemporary creations and wearables at N8V Fashion Camp. Campers can also choose from sessions in STEM, arts, stickball and more in the uniquely Indigenous-centered environment. FAM Camps are open to all youth (both Native and non-Native) ages 6 to 12. Learn more at famok.org/famcamp.

Imagination Unlocked!

Is your child a budding business owner, social cause champion or super problem solver? Students ages 8 to 15 can gain skills in innovation and activating their imaginations at Kidvation Global Camp. Campers explore pathways in entrepreneurship and social activism and then present their ideas to a panel of local leaders. Top projects get to sell their products or gain support for their ideas through Kidvation Global’s e-commerce site. Get more info at KidvationGlobal.com

Active Adventures

Explore the wonders of the great outdoors through OKC Parks’ Outdoor Adventure Camp. Students rock climb, fish, build shelters, try archery and much more, all while learning teamwork. Daily field trips around the metro are included. Find a full list of camp opportunities for ages 6 to 17 at okc.gov/parks

Battle of the Bots

If your tech-savvy child is into computer science, robotics and coding, iCode offers a camp to hone those skills. In this robotics camp, students learn the fundamentals of mechanical engineering and programming, as well as teamwork, as they work together to build robotic systems. Find out more about camps for ages 7 to 18 at icodeschool.com/ edmond111

Read on to learn about more summer camp offerings in the metro, or search online for camps by location and your child’s interests at metrofamilymagazine. com/summer-camps.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PRINCIPAL WARREN PETE AT MILLWOOD ARTS ACADEMY

Academy of Worship Arts

Crossing Community Church

14600 N Portland Ave, OKC 405-755-2227, ajarrell@crossings.church crossings.church/awa

July 11-15, $150-$175

Campers will learn and perform the musical Jonah’s Druthers, a twist on the story of Jonah brought to life in a “Wild West” setting complete with cowboys and heroes. Students who have completed grades 2-8 attend interactive classes in vocals, drama, dance, set design, costume design and Bible. Auditions for special parts will be held May 12 & 13. Volunteer opportunities available.

Artworks Academy of Performing Arts

3251 Market Place, Ste 130, Norman 405-397-1824, info@artworksacademy.com artworksacademy.com

May 30-Aug. 4, $110-$250

Explore the arts with fun, challenging camps and classes for ages 2-18. Students can learn about everything from dance to musical theater and visual arts in a family-friendly environment that is dedicated to providing a comprehensive arts education. Multi-camp/ class and sibling discounts available.

AR Workshop

1020 NW 192nd St, Edmond 405-261-3218, edmond@arworkshop.com arworkshop.com/edmond

June 5-Aug. 11, prices vary

Summer ARt Camps promote creativity and hands-on STEAM learning in a fun and social environment. Campers ages 6-16 gain an understanding of pattern, design and color theory, plus engage with art media such as wood, paint, paper and yarn. 1-, 4-, or 5-day options available, with morning and afternoon sessions. Sibling discount available.

Ballet and Movement Arts Center

201 N Broadway, Ste 201, Moore 646-638-4378, balletmoore@gmail.com bamadanz.com

June 19-Aug. 11, $45-$250

Day and weekly camps for kids ages 3-15 incorporate literature, movement, art making and dance. Themes include exploring friendship, mystical beasts, animals of the ocean, pets, Pokémon creatures and space exploration.

Cadence Equestrian Center

14150 S Pine St, Edmond 405-348-7469

cadenceequestrian.com

May 30-Aug. 4, $525 per week

Learn all about horses and horseback riding at Camp Cadence. Weekly camps for ages 6-15 provide indoor and outdoor riding experiences with individualized riding lessons in a safe, familyfriendly environment. Campers also enjoy fun specialty days including a fishing adventure and water activity day.

Camp Canterbury

Canterbury Voices, Oklahoma City University

2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC 405-232-7464, sing@canterburyokc.com canterburyOKC.com

June 5-9, $225

Camp Canterbury is a week-long camp for children in grades 2-8 who love to sing. Students are taught by seasoned music professionals and receive instruction in developing vocal artistry, good choral techniques and music literacy. In addition to choir, students can explore folk dancing, ukulele and more. A performance will be held on the last day of camp. Tuition assistance available.

Camp Contemporary

Oklahoma Contemporary

11 NW 11th St, OKC 405-951-0000, info@okcontemp.org okcontemp.org/camps

May 30-Aug. 4, $235

Weeklong art adventures give kids ages 5-12 the space and freedom to express themselves artistically with guidance from local artists and creators. Students learn and craft through a wide variety of mediums and leave camp with their creations, new dance moves or even robotics skills. Experienced art educators ignite creativity as campers explore paint, ceramics and other art mediums.

Camp DaKaNi

Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma

3309 E Hefner Rd, OKC 405-478-4656, info@campfirehok.org campfirehok.org/campdakani

May 29-July 28, $340-$725

Experience the wonder, challenges and self-discovery that can only be found outdoors. Running Monday through Friday, Camp DaKaNi is a day camp in OKC for campers ages 5-17. Scholarships available.

Camp Invention

4 metro locations: Mustang, Yukon, Norman & Choctaw 800-968-4332

invent.org/local

June-July, $260

Spark your child’s curiosity and creativity with the all-new Camp Invention® program, Wonder! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate with friends to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From building a mini skate park to launching a pop-up shop to transforming a robot into a stuffie, each experience adds up to an imaginationstretching, confidence-boosting summer.

City of Edmond Parks

2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond 405-359-4630

edmondparks.com

June-July, cost varies

Day camps are available throughout the summer for kids ages 3-17 and cover a variety of topics and activities from athletics and music to science, coding and magic. Educational programs are offered for all ages and explore gardening, outdoor adventures, art and more.

SummerGuide!Camp

Cottonwood Creek Ranch Horse Camp

907 N Chisholm, OKC 405-888-7379, lessons@cottonwoodcreekranch.com cottonwoodcreekranch.com

May 22-Aug. 4, $425

Fun and adventure await at horse camp. Campers learn how to care for their horses and acquire general horse knowledge in a safe, interactive environment. Take part in riding lessons, barn activities and games. Day camp options available for ages 7-14.

Daily Shredd Indoor Skatepark

200 NW 142nd St, Ste 106, Edmond 940-368-4768

dailyshreddokc.com

June 12-July 28, $250 per week or $75 per day

Shredd Camps for ages 7 and up combine skateboarding and art discovery. Activities focus on learning and improving new skills, skate park etiquette and overall confidence. No experience necessary; equipment available for rent or purchase.

Yoga for Teens

Heather Lensgraf

How can learning and practicing yoga benefit my teen?

I believe we are at war for the mental health of the youth of our nation! Recent statistics released by the CDC (Center for Disease Control) show record rates of sadness and suicide risk among America’s teens. As a practicing child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as a yoga teacher, I know that yoga provides potent weapons to combat stress and improve mental health. Relaxation techniques are important and many teens do not know how to relax in ways that diminish stress responses and promote wellness. Mindfulness exercises have been proven to improve focus and decrease anxiety. Exercise has been shown to combat depression. A group setting is also important as it encourages connection, which is another important facet of mental health. In our monthly teen yoga classes, we practice these mental health boosts through the movement and meditative nature of yoga. And we have fun getting to know and support each other while we’re learning.

Heather Lensgraf offers two-hour Yoga for Teens Retreats every first Saturday of the month, including March 4 and April 1. Learn more and register at bikramyogaokc.com/apps/mindbody/classes/65!

Hefner Eye Care

Dr. Kim Hefner

My 8-year-old daughter was prescribed glasses for nearsightedness. My eyes are terrible and got worse as I got older. Is there any way to stop the progression of nearsightedness in kids?

Yes! It’s possible that your daughter would benefit from a new contact lens program called MiSight 1 day, which is a unique contact lens for children ages 8 to 12 that has proven to slow and in some cases stop the progression of myopia (nearsightedness). This is especially important because 96% of childhood onset myopia worsens as the child grows and our modern lifestyle of not spending much time outdoors, and, instead, spending more time on digital devices, exacerbates the problem. The results of the clinical trials of this contact lens treatment are impressive, with 59% of the children in the study having the progression slowed and 41% of the participants having no progression. We’re excited to provide this treatment option to our young patients.

405-728-8853

5757 NW 132nd Street

(south of MacArthur & Memorial) www.hefnereyecare.com

SummerGuide!Camp

FAMcamps at First Americans Museum

659 First Americans Blvd, OKC 405-594-2100, learn@famok.org famok.org

June 5-Aug. 5, $90-$130

FAMcamps at First Americans Museum provide learning experiences for kids ages 6-12 in a uniquely Indigenous-centered environment. Taught by experienced educators, each weeklong, thematic course will focus on Native arts and culture. Before-/ after-care and scholarships available.

Francis Tuttle Technology Center — Rockwell Campus

12777 N Rockwell Ave, OKC 405-717-4900

francistuttle.edu/summer

June 6-30, price varies

Summer Quest at Francis Tuttle is a great opportunity for students ages 11-15 to enjoy fun, engaging, hands-on classes. Participants can take multiple classes throughout June, exploring interests from cooking to engineering and everything in between. Enrollment opens April 4.

Girl Scout Camp E-Ko-Wah

Marlow, OK 405-528-GIRL (4475) GirlsGoCamp.org

June, $300

Unplug and explore new things at this Girl Scout sleepaway camp for girls in grades 2-12. Enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, archery, singing, crafting, STEM and more. Scholarships available.

Girl Scout Camp Trivera

2508 NE 50th St, OKC 405-528-GIRL (4475)

GirlsGoCamp.org

July, $225-$325

Week-long day camps for girls entering grades K-12 offer a new adventure every day, including ziplining, rock climbing, canoeing, swimming, building robots, making slime and so much more. Extended care and scholarships available.

iCode

2217 NW 178th St, Ste B, Edmond 405-757-0500

edmond111@icodeschool.com icodeschool.com/edmond111/camps

June 11-Aug. 5, $425

iCode summer camps for ages 5-18 are action-packed and in-depth, offering challenges that are suitable for tech enthusiasts, creative geniuses and everyone in between. Utilizing the latest technologies, camps are designed to be fun, spark curiosity and deepen a passion for technology. Each day kids are guaranteed to learn something adventurous and new!

Junior Elephant Ambassador Camp

Oklahoma Awesome Adventures

2647 E 2070 Rd, Hugo 508-743-5849, info@ oklahomaawesomeadventures.com oklahomaawesomeadventures.com/ summer-camp

June 11-July 27, $1,250

This one-of-a-kind experience includes a 1-week overnight camp (5 days/4 nights) right next door to the Endangered Ark Foundation, one of the nation’s largest private elephant facilities. Participants have a unique opportunity to learn about one of the world’s most endangered species – the Asian Elephant – up close and in person and take part in enriching activities that focus on team building, leadership and recreation. Six sessions available for ages 9-14.

Kidvation Global Summer Leadership Camp

Le Monde International Charter School

1123 E Main St, Norman info@kidvationglobal.com kidvationglobal.com

June 12-16, $125

In this interactive and engaging camp, kids ages 8-12 develop confidence, courage and character. Campers will explore two leadership pathways – youth entrepreneurship and social activism –through hands-on activities, experiential learning, field trips and other activities.

Lighthouse Charities Youth and Adult Sailing Camps

Oklahoma City Boat Club

9101 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC 405-440-3054, lclsailing@gmail.com okclighthouse.org

June-August, $325 per week, $275 per week for members

Hosted by the Oklahoma City Boat Club at Lake Hefner, week-long camps for ages 8-17 teach the basics of sailing in a safe, educational and fun environment. Classes and private sailing lessons also available.

Little Spanish Bridge

3500 S Blvd, Ste D1, Edmond 405-805-6283 info@littlespanishbridge.com littlespanishbridge.com

June 5-July 28, $350-$500

Little Spanish Bridge is a full-immersion, foreign language (Spanish) studio with enrichment programs for the entire family. Fusión Latino Amèrica is a 7-week summer camp (4 days a week) featuring an energizing bootcamp, music, rhythms, unfamiliar flavors, colorful art pieces and a global view of the South American region, its people, customs and culture. Programs available for ages 18 months to teens.

Mathnasium North OKC

14101 N May Ave, Ste 106, OKC 405-412-8758

northokc@mathnasium.com mathnasium.com/northokc

May-August, prices vary up to $300 per month

Mathnasium’s summer math program helps kids ages 4 through high school catch up, keep up or get a headstart on the math they’ll be learning in the next school year. Improve comprehension and confidence with fun math tutoring activities.

SummerGuide!Camp

Metropolitan Library System

Summer Reading 2023

300 Park Ave, OKC 405-606-3837

MetroLibrary.org/

summerreadingiscoming

June 1-July 31

Every summer for more than 80 years, the Metropolitan Library System has offered a Summer Reading Program to keep kids and their families reading all summer long. Because reading is a fundamental skill and a gateway to success in life, MLS creates a motivational framework for learning for all ages, even parents! Programs and take-home kits available at all 19 libraries.

OCCC College For Kids

6500 S Land Ave, OKC 405-682-1611 ext. 7205

kristi.l.carlucci@occc.edu

occc.edu/summercamp

May 30-July 21, full day: $170, half day: $85 College for Kids is a 7-week summer camp that offers a variety of classes open to students entering grades 1-8 in the fall. Course options include science, technology, engineering, art, math, cooking, music, language, fitness and gardening.

OKC Parks Summer Camps & Classes

Held at various recreation centers okc.gov/parks

Late May-early August, fees vary, weekly camps are typically $135

Each OKC Parks recreation center offers its own set of summer camps for ages 6-17, from weekly options with varying themes and field trips to half-day or full-day camps with a variety of themes. Themes include outdoor adventure, skateboarding, sports, magic, visual and performing arts, dance and more. Register by the class, for a week or for the whole summer.

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre

2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC 405-208-6200, reception@oklahomachildrenstheatre.org summercamps.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

May 22-Aug. 4, $220 & up

Week-long summer camps for ages 5-13 explore a range of disciplines, including theatre, dance, magic and filmmaking. Each camp ends with a final viewing or recital. Expert instructors tailor each class to the talents of the students attending. Kids ages 7-16 can participate in 3-week production camps with auditions, a rehearsal period and public performance.

Oklahoma City Zoo

2000 Remington Pl, OKC 405-425-0218, education@okczoo.org okczoo.org

June 5-Aug. 4, members: $270, nonmembers: $300

Adventure awaits young explorers during wild week-long summer camps that provide engaging experiences for children ages 4-17. Each camp offers unique, individually themed programs that include a variety of hands-on STEAM activities, in-park exploration, up-close encounters with animal ambassadors and more. Full- and half-day options available.

SummerGuide!Camp

Oklahoma Hall of Fame Summer Thursdays

1400 Classen Dr, OKC 405-235-4458

oklahomahof.com

Every Thursday in June & July, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Spend your summer with the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and enjoy free family fun every Thursday in June and July. Enjoy free admission, story time, crafts and outdoor activities about a featured Oklahoma Hall of Fame member. Open to groups; call in advance so space can be reserved.

Pioneer Library System

Southwest OKC Public Library

2201 SW 134th St, OKC 405-979-2200, contactpls@pioneerlibrarysystem.org pioneerlibrarysystem.org

With one-time events, week-long series and recurring programs, Pioneer libraries have something for everyone, including activities in STEAM, health, literacy and more! Registration requires an active library card number but there is no cost to register. A Summer Learning Challenge runs May 1-Aug. 15 for all age groups (even grown-ups!). Check out the Moore Public Library and the three locations in Norman.

Preacher Pottery

7518 N May Ave, Ste B, OKC 405-342-0500

info@preacherpottery.com preacherpottery.com

July 10-27, $275

At Kids Pottery Camp, kids ages 7 and up receive an introduction to wheel-throwing, ceramic hand-building and basic glazing techniques.

Reclaiming Arts

312 S Coltrane, Edmond 405-435-4255

info@reclaimingarts.com reclaimingarts.com

June 12-30 & July 10-28, $75 & up

Kids ages 3 and up can choose from a variety of artistic camps and classes to learn dance, fine arts, music, theatre and aerial silks. Flexible options include weeklong camps or summer-long classes. Visit reclaimingarts.com to redeem a free class.

Rose State Kids College & Teen Scene

6420 SE 15th St, Midwest City 405-733-7488

kidscollege@rose.edu

rosestate.edu/kidscollege

June 5-July 27, $90 per class

Kids in grades 1-12 can explore a variety of topics including STEAM, aerospace, video game design, sports and more. With 154 classes spanning 7 weeks, students enjoy small class sizes with certified teachers. Registration is a la carte by class, by the week or the whole summer. Tuition assistance available.

Sam Noble Museum

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 405-325-1008

samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

June 19-July 28, members: $275, nonmembers: $325

During week-long day camps for kids ages 5-11, students experience science firsthand through a variety of discovery-based

activities. Learn all about ancient giants, modern wildlife and natural history from real scientists and get an up-close look at exhibits and specimens.

Science Museum Oklahoma

2020 Remington Pl, OKC 405-602-6664

reservations@sciencemuseumok.org sciencemuseumok.org/summer-camps

May 30-Aug. 4; PreK, members: $100, nonmembers: $120; Grades 1-6, members: $250, nonmembers: $275

Whether your child enjoys exploring the universe in the planetarium, trying out robotics in the tinkering studio or loves to get their hands dirty with some gooey experiments, there’s a camp that’s perfect for everyone! Camp themes vary each session and never repeat a day, ensuring young scientists get a new experience every time.

SoccerCity OKC

4520 Old Farm Rd, OKC 405-748-3888

soccercityokcity.com

June-August, $120-$210

Ages 5-14 enjoy soccer drills, games and scrimmaging against other campers, all led by trained instructors. Multiple weekly camps are offered throughout the summer with half- and full-day options available. The year-round Lil Kickers program for ages 18 months to 9 years also continues in the summer.

St. Crispin’s Summer Camp

36302 St Hwy 9, Wewoka 405-382-1619

tphares@epiok.org stcrispins.org/camp

June 4-July 15, $200-$500

St. Crispin’s offers inclusive camps for kids in grades K-12 where they strive to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of all. Campers take part in a variety of activities such as worship, archery and paddle boarding and leave St. Crispin’s forever changed by the beauty, joy and friendships found. Scholarships available.

St. Mary’s Episcopal School

505 E Covell, Edmond 405-341-9541, smesoffice@smesedmond.org smesedmond.org/student-life/summer.cfm

June 5-July 20, $190-$215

From KaleidEscape in June to enrichment camps in July, the faculty and staff at St. Mary’s serve up tons of fun and learning all summer long. Campers ages 3-11 can learn about science, art, world cultures, coding and more. Register for all six weeks or pick the ones that work best for you.

Studio J Performing Arts Center

2241 NW 178th St, Edmond 405-348-3377, studiojdanceok@gmail.com studiojdanceok.com

June 5-27, $100 & up

Budding stars ages 2-18 can take part in theater and dance camps with exciting themes such as Encanto Fiesta and Beach Party. Each active camp includes dance instruction, crafts, movie clips and more. Theater campers will learn to perform Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr.

Threshold Climbing

6024 W Memorial Rd, OKC 405-470-3611

thresholdclimbing.com

May-August, $55-$250

Climbing camps for ages 6-13 focus on different types of climbing such as bouldering, auto-belays and top rope and include fun games, daily warm-ups and positive social interactions and encouragement. All gear included. Daily drop-ins available. Use code METRO before April 30 and get 10% off.

Trinity School at Edgemere

3200 N Walker Ave, OKC 405-525-5600, hello@trinityschoolokc.org trinityschoolokc.org/summer-up

July 10-21, $650

Trinity School at Edgemere’s Summer Up! program is a 2-week summer day camp combining reading therapy, math intervention and summer fun. Register your student for an academic refresh followed by an afternoon of fun in the sun. Academic intensives are held 9-11 a.m. each day followed by other activities such as a field trip, video gaming, science projects and water games until 4 p.m.

Summer FAMcamps in June & July

Ages 6 to 12

Celebrate First American cultures at the museum! All-day FAMcamp sessions will take place weekly June 5-Aug. 4. General member registration begins Monday, March 6 at 10 a.m. and non-member registration opens Monday, March 13 at 10 a.m. Registration closes two weeks prior to each camp or when filled. Need-based scholarships ranging from 25–75% off are available.

Visual arts, STEM, music, stickball & more

shouterspirit.com

Edmond 405-775-9491

Norman 405-573-9974

Tulsa 918-622-5867

Twist and Shout Training Center

Tumbling and Cheer Camps

14801 N Lincoln Blvd, Edmond 405-775-9491

edmondts@shouterspirit.com

3431 Macdonnell Dr, Norman 405-573-9974

normanoffice@shouterspirit.com Shouterspirit.com

May-August, $110

Weekly 4-day cheer and tumbling camps for ages 4 & up. Campers learn from expert teachers.

Velocity Dance Center

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Ste A-11, OKC 405-721-8807

admin@oklahomacitydancestudio.com

oklahomacitydancestudio.com

July, prices varies

Classes and mini-camps offered in ballet, jazz, tap and hip hop. Check website for details.

YMCA Camp Classen

10840 Main Camp Road, Davis 580-369-2272

ccinfo@ymcaokc.org

ymcaokc.org/camp-classen

May 28-July 22, $950 per week session

Campers ages 6-16 enjoy a summer camp filled with all the staples like hiking, canoeing, swimming, s’mores and horseback riding. With eight week-long sessions to choose from, campers can attend a single week, two weeks or even come for the whole summer

SummerGuide!Camp

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Day Camp

Multiple locations throughout OKC ymcaokc.org/y-programs/summerday-camp

Late May-early August, starting at $135 per week

Kids will discover not just the wonders of day camp but also the joy of exploring their unique traits, talents and interests and the power of sharing their strengths and skills to benefit a group. That’s why 2,600 kids in the Oklahoma City area attend the Y’s summer day camps. Ages 5-12 (some sites allow up to age 15) can sign up for the entire summer or just one week. Financial assistance available.

Find

School’s out, but the learning doesn’t stop!

Join us for our 2023 summer programs featuring a wide variety of activities from STEM classes and video game design to sports, arts, and beyond. Students enjoy small class sizes with 100% certified teachers in courses like Fun with Alpacas, Archery, Esports, 3D Printing, and Flying Drones. Make sure your child has a summer to remember!

ENROLL TODAY! ROSE.EDU/KIDSCOLLEGE

Over 150 Class Options

Register

Finding Strength and Resilience at Your Local YMCA

Determined to build healthy habits for herself and her family, Jessica Simmons didn’t know the kind of lasting change membership at the YMCA would bring.

After completing in-patient treatment and being reunited with her children, Simmons and her husband were determined to create healthier habits for themselves and their children.

With the help of YMCA’s financial assistance model, Simmons and her family were able to join the Earlywine Park YMCA.

What began as the goals to continue her sobriety medication free, and to lose weight for her wedding became life changing.

Jessica and her family took advantage of every program they could. She attended every group exercise classes she could, using child watch for her children, and making friends along the way.

“I never considered myself an athlete at all” says Simmons. “It was amazing to find out that I have these talents and gifts that I hadn’t been using.”

During her weight loss journey, Simmons found

herself embraced in a community of supporters from all walks of life with a passion for marathons, cycling and even triathlons. She ran her first 5k at Earlwine Park on Christmas Eve, 2019.

Jessica strength-trains at the Earlywine Park YMCA four days a week. She swims, bikes, and runs two to three times a week. She even teaches group exercise classes.

Jessica and her husband are over five years sober and remain focused on creating healthy habits for their family through YMCA programs.

She believes if it wasn’t for the financial assistance that allowed her to have a membership, she may not still be in recovery. Through her Y membership she found motivation, strength and community.

As her love for running grew in 2020, a friend from the Y gifted Jessica her first road bike. Running in marathons quickly became competing in duathlons and triathlons.

$2,784,11 6

The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City offers financial aid to anyone interested in being a member, despite their inability to pay. In 2022, they supported members and participants through of financial assistance.

“I am so blessed by the community I found at the Y,” says Jessica. “They kept me moving towards greater and greater goals.”

When Jessica Simmons overcame one addiction, she replaced it with another– food. In May 2018, Simmons and her husband were in the early stages of recovering from addiction.

Jessica Simmons YMCA Family Member

WHERE IS HE NOW?

BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Warren Clay was just 3 years old when he was chosen as one of MetroFamily’s 2021 Cover Kids, lighting up that year’s January/ February cover with his bright smile and palpable joy. His parents, Rob and Brittany, could never have predicted that by the end of 2021, Warren would be a household name across the state and beyond.

During the 2021 Oklahoma State University homecoming football game, 4-year-old Warren helped game day host and OSU hype man Les Thomas Sr. lead a cheer during a timeout. Warren’s energy and enthusiasm won the hearts of every fan in the stadium, and those 15 seconds of fame led to his nickname Warren The Cowboy, clothing featuring his photo, meet and greets in Stillwater, a song and music video and more.

restaurants, Warren is recognized and asked for photos. The kindergartener loves the limelight, but he mostly enjoys spreading joy. “Warren is a big ball of energy and his motto is big love,” said Rob. “He loves showing big love to people, giving hugs and making people’s days.”

At school, Warren enjoys reading, PE and recess. He still loves monster trucks and Oklahoma State football, with his favorite player being big brother Collin Clay. Warren

Where Wonder Lives

is practicing his dribbling skills and learning to roller skate, and he and his family are also working on new songs and a children’s book. “To see what he has already accomplished is mind-blowing,” said Rob. “We are just grateful.”

Summer at the Park Move

WARREN THE COWBOY EARNED HIS NICKNAME DURING THE 2021 OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME. PHOTO COURTESY OF OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY AND WARREN THE COWBOY.

Registration is now OPEN for our Spring classes and programs. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to know about our Summer Camps and events.

Trail13 Series

FREE Outdoor Education Programs to help you learn how to enjoy the outdoors safely!

Gardening

FREE Programs for the whole family!

Seed Swaps, Pollinator Education, DIY Planting, and MORE!

SUMMER CAMPS

Coding, Science, Magic, Athletics, Music and MORE! Half and Full Day programs for all ages!

For more information and REGISTRATION, visit our website: www.edmondparks.com