MetroFamily Magazine March April 2024 by MetroFamily Magazine

MARCH/APRIL 2024

Summer

Camp Vibes

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Creative OKC

Discover local spots where imaginations can run wild

From Storm Clouds to Rainbows How to talk to kids about climate change

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Memories!

LOCATED JUST WEST OF WICHITA, KANSAS TWPARK.COM | (316) 553-4650

Contents Features 14 NURTURING TEENS & BUILDING FUTURES One local family's foster care journey

16 INSPIRATIONAL

FIRST AMERICANS Meet internationally renowned Indigenous food Chef Loretta Oden

FROM STORM CLOUDS

TO RAINBOWS Talking to kids about climate change

45 2024 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Find dozens of options to inspire learning, creativity, friendships & fun in our popular guide

46 SUMMER CAMP INSPIRES

LIFELONG LEARNING Rose State Kids College offers diverse courses and hands-on experiences

ON THE COVER Scarlett is the winner of our 2024 Cover Kids contest in the 4-5 age category. She loves to dance, swim, camp, fish and read, plus she helps care for her family's chickens, donkeys and garden. With her mom, dad and little brother, Scarlett enjoys hiking at Martin Park Nature Center and visiting the Choctaw Library for story time. PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Departments 6

CONNECT WITH METROFAMILY Take advantage of our top seasonal resources

10 NEW & NOW

5 noteworthy happenings for families this spring

LOCAL FAMILY FUN Creative OKC: Discover local spots where imaginations can run wild

26 MOM TALK

Education Advocacy 101: How parents can make a positive difference

EXPLORING OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN Seek sunshine, art & culture in Shawnee

32 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Spring Break activities, outdoor festivals & frugal family fun

62 LAST LOOK

5 tips to choose the best summer camp for your child

4 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Letter from the Editor 2023

2023

Publisher Sarah Taylor Managing Editor Erin Page Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo Art Director Stacy Noakes Director of Events Casey Shupe Editorial Assistant Emiley Bainbridge Account Executive Dana Price Strategy Manager Morgan Harris Content & Account Specialist Renee Filippo Contributing Writers Erika Cerda Rebecca Fast Debbie Murnan 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 metrofamilymagazine.com MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2024 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.

pring in Oklahoma brings warmer temperatures … and often flaring temperaments in the Oklahoma Legislature. While I love the sense of renewal and anticipation of this time of year (More sunlight! Sign the kids up for summer camps! Fun festivals across the state!), I also hold tension between hope and dread as I digest our lawmakers’ decisions at the State Capitol, particularly as they relate to our public education system. As I often do when feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, I turned to a mom I admire greatly for her guidance on how I can use my voice and look for the good during this legislative session. I interviewed Sen. Julia Kirt, mom of two and longtime advocate for public schools and mental health initiatives, ahead of the session to get her Parents: your advice on key issues parents should be aware of. Sen. Kirt’s key areas of concern related to education are: 1) book banning legislation, further restricting educators’ ability to provide a diverse, age-appropriate range of books to our students, 2) a renewed emphasis on standardized testing, overlooking broader indicators of student success and 3) plateaued funding for education, with a need to consider rising inflation and assess spending on a perstudent basis.

voice matters. Teachers can't be the only ones speaking up for schools anymore. Sen. Julia Kirt

If you’re a parent who shares these concerns, what’s the best course of action? We’re all guilty of turning to social media to complain. But Kirt advises parents to utilize tried-and-true methods of effective advocacy, namely face-to-face interactions with our legislators to discuss issues, as well as regular phone calls and emails, plus joining a Parent Legislative Action Committee to stay in community with other parent advocates. Beyond sharing our distress or opposition, Kirt also encourages parents to update our legislators on all the good things happening in our schools, including praising the work of our incredible teachers. I hope you’ll join me in staying up to date on what’s happing at our Capitol this legislative session — and in frequently reminding our legislators why our teachers (and schools) deserve a raise.

With hope,

Erin Page Managing Editor

Get more details on putting these tips from Sen. Kirt into action here.



Proud member of

Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce & Edmond Chamber of Commerce

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Connect with MetroFamily

Your Parenting Playbook for OKC in March & April

Our primary goal at MetroFamily is to make life easier for local parents. Through our bi-monthly magazines, robust website, weekly podcasts with parenting experts, blogs by local parents and exciting events and contests, we seek to tame parent overwhelm and infuse joy into your families. The best way to get all the family fun and parenting resources from MetroFamily is to sign up for our FREE e-newsletter. You’ll receive bite-sized timely news, top weekend events, info on our contests to win fabulous prizes, seasonal guides and real-life parenting tips straight to your email inbox. Sign up at metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe. 

Find 4 opportunities to learn, have fun, take advantage of local resources and win fantastic prizes from MetroFamily in March and April.

1 Nominate your Family Favorites

for a chance to WIN BIG

We need your help to crown the best of family-friendly 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 20 and April 10 at metrofamilymagazine.com/vote. Then, vote to determine the winners May 1 through 15. The winners and finalists will be highlighted in our July/August issue. The best part? When you nominate and vote in our Family Favorites contest, you’ll be entered for a chance to WIN a family staycation, which includes a 2-night stay at The Ellison Hotel, breakfast at Milo and general admission and Wild Encounter tickets to the OKC Zoo!

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2 Explore seasonal family fun Take advantage of warmer weather and longer days with our list of family-friendly festivals around the state, 50 things to do for $5 or less, farmers markets, Spring Break camps and family fun, ways to celebrate Earth Day, Easter egg-stravaganzas and much more at metrofamilymagazine.com/spring.

For just $25 annually, become a MetroFamily Insider and receive a mailed subscription to MetroFamily Magazine, discounted and early bird tickets to MetroFamily events, including Kids Fest on April 20, and other special offers. Join today at metrofamilymagazine. com/insider. 

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Summer Fun Guide Promote your travel destinations, summer fun programs, events and activities in our next issue! Deadline for May/June print issue: April 10. Digital options are available anytime!

Reach more than 100K local parents through PRINT • DIGITAL • EMAIL • SOCIAL MEDIA Let MetroFamily connect you with our parent readers and help you swim to success this summer! Contact our marketing specialists today at tips@metrofamilymagazine.com or 405-601-2081.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Connect with MetroFamily

i l y ’s m a F o r t e M

s d i K FEST APRIL 20

4 Join us for Kids Fest on April 20

Don’t miss the best family party of the year! Kids Fest 2024 will be held Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rose State College’s Student Union.

Enjoy petting zoos, bounce houses, character meet and greets, touch a truck, stage performances, face painting, PRESENTED BY food trucks, giveaways and more than

e College t a t S e s o R t a

30 vendor booths each providing a kid-friendly activity. Thank you to presenting sponsor SoccerCity OKC. Adults and kids under 2 are free! Kids 2 and older are $5 in advance or $8 at the door. Parking is free!

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Kids Programs

Whether your child loves the arts, STEM, sports or all of the above, find the perfect fit for their interests. See all the programs at metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-programs.

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New & Now

Spring Things

5 newsworthy happenings for families BY ERIN PAGE. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Bug out at the Tulsa Zoo For kids intrigued with butterflies, beetles and all things captivating and crawly, Tulsa Zoo’s new BUGS exhibit will delight and educate visitors beginning in mid-March. Kids will be wowed by gigantic robotic insects and arachnids hissing, buzzing, clicking and waving antennae and legs as they learn about species from around the world. Young visitors can climb on a giant monarch caterpillar sculpture and then watch larger-than-life robotic butterflies flutter as they learn about their life cycle and threats faced from habitat destruction. Sure to incite giggles: the stinkbug that releases a scented air blast! Don’t miss the giant nests of leaf-cutter ants, termite mounds and beehives, plus learn why honeybees are essential to agriculture and how local families can help them thrive. BUGS will be on display at the Tulsa Zoo through Labor Day. Tickets to BUGS are $6 for non-members and $5 for members. Admission to BUGS is not included in general zoo admission.

ROBOTIC INSECTS AND ARACHNIDS CAPTIVATE GUESTS IN TULSA ZOO'S NEW BUGS EXHIBIT.

First Americans Museum launches teen workshops A new initiative at First Americans Museum, the Teen Workshop series introduces students of all backgrounds, ages 13 to 17, to Indigenous cultures through extended active learning opportunities. Students gain knowledge from mentors, culture bearers and professional educators through goal-oriented activities that promote team building, sustainable lifeways and friendship. During Spring Break, March 18 to 22, participants will explore a Native Garden Workshop about First American foods and organic farming practices. Participants will prepare a garden for the spring growing season and enjoy tasty recipes. Summer teen workshops will be announced soon. Older students also have the opportunity to become Summer Teen Guides, assisting with FAMcamps. Teen Guides receive $10 an hour for up to 20 hours a week over the 11 weeks of summer camps. Students must be between 15 and 18 years old. Applications open March 11. For more information, visit famok. org/teens.

10 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

TEENS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN IN CHEF LORETTA'S GARDEN AS PART OF FIRST AMERICANS MUSEUM'S NEW TEEN WORKSHOP SERIES.

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum completes new outdoor space For more than 30 years, Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum has been a hub of learning through open-ended play for children and families. Over the past year, the museum has undergone extensive outdoor renovations to add even more interactive experiences for children of all ages. “Outdoor play is not only fun for kids but also good for their physical and mental health and development,” said Eileen Castle, executive director of the museum. “Our outdoor environment is a wonderful way to explore nature and provides for unique play opportunities that can’t be easily replicated inside."

JASMINE MORAN CHILDREN'S MUSEUM'S NEW OUTDOOR SPACE INCLUDES A CHILDREN'S GARDEN, FARMYARD, ACCESSIBLE ZIPLINE AND SHIPYARD.

The new spaces encourage movement, exploration and curiosity for kids and adults alike. In the summer of 2023, the museum added a children’s garden with themed spaces, a pretend play greenhouse and fairy garden build space; a sensory garden with musical instruments, rain fountain and pollinator gardens; and a shipyard with a two-level pirate ship, boat swing and net lounge area. Recently, a farmyard was completed that includes chickens, goats and ducks; an animal meet-and-greet space; a pretend play mini farm; and a kid and goat dual playground. The newest addition is a ZipKrooz, a 70-foot playground-height zipline that also includes an accessible zipline for guests with special needs. A sand and water play area with cranes, a mud kitchen and waterfall stream is expected to be completed by the start of the summer season. "We focus on natural elements, like sticks, dirt, leaves and flowers, which are amazing openended materials that are easily adaptable to kids’ imaginations and needs and offer countless possibilities for play,” said Castle. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and will offer special STEM programming for guests during Spring Break.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

New & Now Science Museum Oklahoma unveils new sensory room SMO’s Sensory Space provides a quiet and soothing environment for guests and was designed particularly for those with autism and other forms of neurodiversities who are seeking relaxation and respite from overstimulation. “We know that the museum is often filled with activity and noise and can be overwhelming for some people,” said Allen Voyles, SMO’s vice president of operations. “So the Sensory Space provides a retreat for anyone feeling sensory overload.” This specialized room offers a range of experiences promoting sensory integration in a calm environment. Guests enjoy low lighting, a bubble waterfall, special seating, fidget toys and more. The room is located on the first floor of the museum between the Tinkering Garage and Explorazone. SMO also continues to offer sensory kits available for guests to check out inside the museum. Kits include a sensory story, map, ear covers, eye shades, gloves, a timer and fidget toys.

LOW LIGHTING AND SPECIALIZED SEATING CREATE A CALMING ENVIRONMENT IN SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA'S NEW SENSORY SPACE.

OKCMOA opens exhibit featuring Georgia O’Keeffe Magnificent Beauty: Georgia O’Keeffe and the Art of the Flower, organized by OKCMOA, examines explorations of flowers in painting and photography by O’Keeffe and photographer Imogen Cunningham. The exhibition opens March 9 and will be on display through July 7. O’Keeffe redefined the tradition of floral still-life painting by incorporating techniques of photography (a relatively new medium in the early 20th century) into her works, choosing to depict the subject cropped and at close range to focus on color and form. Guests will have the opportunity to compare and contrast O’Keeffe’s style with Cunningham’s, who also portrayed flowers in close-up but whose photographs call attention to the play of light and shadow as well as the subject’s intricate details. Magnificent Beauty demonstrates how each artist transformed the traditional subject with a modernist, and at times abstracted, take on the natural world. The exhibition is included with admission. New in 2024, OKCMOA is offering free admission to all guests on the second Sunday of each month. Kids 17 and under always get in free.

GEORGIA O'KEEFFE. WHITE BIRD OF PARADISE, 1939. OIL ON CANVAS, 19 X 16 INCHES. GEORGIA O'KEEFFE MUSEUM. GIFT OF JEAN HOLMES MCDONALD. © GEORGIA O'KEEFFE MUSEUM. [ 2009.2.1] PHOTO: TIM NIGHSWANDER/IMAGING4ART

12 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

SPring Thing March 20-22 10 AM - 2 PM each day plus 5:30 - 7:30 PM on March 21

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Summer Thursdays June & July 10 AM - 2 PM Every Thursday Recommended for children ages 2 - 12

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Nurturing Teens & Building Futures

From an empty nest to a house full of hope: The Hilderbrands’ foster care story BY ERIN PAGE

Jan and Mark Hilderbrand have always had a house full of kids. Their own children, their kids’ friends, neighbor kids and children from their youth ministry filled their home with love and laughter for many years. When their children reached adulthood and moved out, their nest stayed empty for two years until they felt the call to become foster parents. In March 2021, after several months of training, Jan and Mark opened their home to children in foster care. Since then, they’ve welcomed 32 kids into their home, ranging from 18 months old to teenagers. While their journey hasn’t always been easy, their unconditional love for the children in their care, as well as for the kids’ biological families, and their joy in helping kids heal have been constant. “We want to provide a safe place where they feel secure and loved,” said Mark.

The truth about teens

Mark notes that many families are only interested in fostering babies, but because the Hilderbrands have already raised their own children, they felt equipped to work with any age child and to take multiple children at once. They are especially adept at working with teens, an age group that can be hard to place. Mark says just like raising any teen can be difficult at times, fostering teens is not without challenges, often because of what they have been through.

Third, they provide consistency. The family rules and expectations around behavior don’t change and the family schedule remains as consistent as possible from day to day.

“They [think they] are grown, they think they know how the world works and they’ve been hurt so much they don’t always want to build relationships,” said Mark. “It can be hard to get them to open up.”

Fourth, they embrace the philosophy that trust is built over time. Every child in their care is a unique individual who has been through varied situations, and they deal with those experiences differently.

The Hilderbrands have developed a tried-and-true process to first reassure the children in their care that they are safe and then patiently build trust. First, they communicate often how much they want the children in their home to be there. Mark recalls one teen he took for a drive to talk about how they could better communicate with each other. Mark told him repeatedly, “We really want you here,” and once the teen understood he was truly wanted, the relationship improved. Second, the Hilderbrands allow the kids limited phone time and make mealtimes and evenings phones-free so they can focus on building those relationships. “We have conversations as a family, laugh and talk about what happened that day so they get that sense of community,” said Jan. “We treat the kids like they are part of our family. Watching them open up is one of my favorite parts. Every kid should have that chance to just be a kid.”

14 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

“Our oldest son has ADHD and he thrived on a schedule, so that really trained us,” said Jan. “We’re on the go as a family but we still try to do pretty much the same things around bedtimes and mealtimes so the kids know what to expect.”

“Especially with teens, you don’t know what they’ve been through until they are willing to talk, and you have to be patient,” said Mark. “Showing love will open the door so you can work through [their past trauma].” Finally, they always keep their promises. “If we use the words ‘I promise,’ that means we’ll run through a flood to be there,” said Jan. While the idea of fostering teens may seem overwhelming to some, Jan and Mark have found much joy in giving older kids the chance to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like laughter over a game of Uno, while also helping them overcome the trauma they’ve been through and look toward their futures. “They realize that everything isn’t negative, and they get a glimpse of what their life could be like,” said Jan. “They have hope.”

Building a community of support

Taking the next step

Jan and Mark have been intentional in building their own support system, too, relying on their church family to help provide resources and finding babysitters who can provide them a night off every so often.

For those families for whom fostering isn’t possible, there are plenty of ways to offer much-needed support, like providing a meal, clothing or other resources to a foster family or offering to babysit.

A common fear among potential foster parents is that they will have to navigate the unknown waters of their journey alone. Mark has found that to be unfounded. The case workers the Hilderbrands have worked with have been extremely helpful, and Mark appreciates that, with their case workers’ help, they’ve been able to determine which kids will flourish best in their home.

They have also served as a support system for the biological families of the kids in their care. The Hildebrands provide frequent encouragement to the biological families and they remind them that they aren’t there to take their children or take their place but rather to love their kids while they get the help they need. “We choose to love them as much as we possibly can,” said Jan of biological parents. “As long as they are trying, we will try with them.” Jan and Mark remain in contact with a sibling pair who left their home for their forever home with an aunt. They receive regular updates and photos and even get to see the girls often at their church. Another child in their care is on the path to reunification with her mom, and the Hilderbrands look forward to continuing to support their family.

More foster families like the Hildebrands are needed in Oklahoma, particularly for teens and sibling groups. Jan says foster parents don’t have to be superheroes and they don’t have to be perfect — they simply must be resolved to be committed and provide a lot of love, just like parents do every day with their own kids.

“That support makes all the difference in the world,” said Mark. Learn more about becoming a foster family or supporting foster families at okfosters.org. Editor’s note: This article part of a series in partnership with Oklahoma Human Services about foster care in our state. Find the full series at metrofamilymagazine.com/foster-care. SPONSORED BY

“We hope to fall into ‘grandparent mode,’” said Mark. “She [mom] knows we are there for her and she wants to be part of our lives. That’s so pleasing for us.”

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Inspirational First Americans

Meet internationally renowned Indigenous food Chef Loretta Oden BY ERIN PAGE. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Loretta Oden’s first memory of cooking was standing on a chair at the kitchen table with an apron tied under her arms, using a rolling pin to crush saltine crackers between pieces of wax paper. She was making the filling for salmon croquettes. Surrounded by her mother, aunties, grandmas and greatgrandmas, Oden’s childhood kitchen in Shawnee, Okla., holds infinite fond memories. “The kitchen was where we gathered; it was a joyous place full of laughing and singing,” recalls Oden, now 81. Another happy childhood spot was her mother’s garden. Oden says her mom could make anything grow, from tomatoes and strawberries to corn, beans and squash, known as the Three Sisters in many Indigenous cultures. “My mom had a garden for all her life, and now I’ve had a garden for most of my life because there’s a special feeling of getting your hands and feet in the warm earth and watching something grow,” said Oden. SPONSORED BY

A member of Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Oden didn’t grow up traditionally Native in all respects, but she says the undercurrent of her heritage was embedded in her psyche, through cooking, gardening and foraging practices as well as attending powwows. Oden also notes that she grew up in two different worlds, with her mom’s family being Potawatomi and her white dad’s mother being a Mayflower descendant. The two families didn’t often mix, but both sides sought to protect her from racism against Indigenous people. It wasn’t until Oden was an adult, having raised two sons of her own, that she left Oklahoma to travel and experience cuisines around the world, with an eye for Indigenous foods. Those experiences led Oden and eldest son, Clay, to open the Corn Dance Café in Santa Fe, N.M., in 1993, the popularity of which would propel her fame as a Native chef. She has been featured on numerous national television shows and publications and she hosted Emmy Award–winning PBS series Seasoned With Spirit: A Native Cook’s Journey. Grandchildren drew Oden back to Oklahoma, where she now serves as chef consultant for Thirty Nine Restaurant at First Americans Museum and oversees Chef Loretta’s Garden. The garden is supported by Shape Your Future, a program of TSET, and is open to the public for free. It’s also where children attend FAMcamps to learn about gardening. (Don’t miss QR codes throughout the garden where guests can access Chef Loretta’s recipes!) Oden recently released her book Corn Dance: Inspired First American Cuisine featuring recipes that combine her Oklahoma upbringing and Native heritage. We caught up with Oden to learn more about how she’s using her experiences to inspire the next generation — and having a lot of fun along the way.

What inspired you to focus your career on First American cuisine? My life changed when I left Oklahoma and started traveling and exploring new places. I started meeting other Native women and seeing how different [their] food was — and not just the food but the customs and song and dance — just as diverse as the people. I have eaten really great food all over the world, but it dawned on me that while you can go to any city and find Mongolian barbecue, French food and every other kind of food, you don’t see many references to First American food.

16 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Experience Indigenous cuisine at Thirty Nine restaurant at First Americans Museum, open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plus, meet more inspirational First Americans and learn about the 39 Tribal Nations in Oklahoma by visiting the exhibits at First Americans Museum. The museum is open Wednesday through Monday. The third Sunday of each month is free for kids 12 and under. Learn more about the museum, restaurant and kids programming like FAMcamps at famok.org.

That sparked a thought that I would open a Native food restaurant. My eldest son, Clay, and I opened the Corn Dance Café in Santa Fe in 1993 and it took off. It was the right place at the right time. And that just spurred my all-consuming passion to learn more about Native and Indigenous foods — pre-contact or pre-Columbian foods. I wanted to know: what did they hunt and grow throughout the Americas? I learn something new every day.

What do you most enjoy about working with kids in Chef Loretta’s Garden at FAMcamp, and what lessons do you hope to impart to them? I love the curiosity and wonder in kids’ eyes when they see and learn new things. Now, you have to do this subliminally — you can’t let them know it’s good for them! A lot of it is about playing in the dirt — I always garden with bare hands because I like to feel the earth. I try to plant some things that are fast growing — like radishes — because kids can see them grow and then harvest and taste them. Last year, we shucked corn and the kids ate raw corn, made bundles of corn silk to make corn silk tea and they took home husks to make tamales or corn husk dolls. This year, we’ll be painting with ears of corn or corn cobs and making plant dyes with smushed up berries. We get messy, we have fun and we taste all along the way. I enjoy showing them that food nourishes our body, but it also nourishes our hearts and our soul. I think I have more fun than the kids!

What is your current favorite dish to prepare? My go-to is something involving the Three Sisters [corn, beans and squash]. When they are planted, grown, harvested and eaten together, they provide the perfect protein and amino acids — you could live off of it! I make a Three Sisters stew with blue corn dumplings and a Three Sisters salad with all kinds of greens. But my favorite dish hearkens back to my Okie roots and is named after my son Clay, who passed away and was a brilliant, creative chef. Clay’s Buffaloaf uses buffalo meat and quinoa instead of panko for the binder. It’s good fresh out of the oven, but my favorite is a cold meatloaf sandwich the next day.

What has it meant to you to serve as an ambassador and re-vitalizor of First American cuisine?

Get Growing!

Create your own garden at home with Chef Loretta’s tips: 1. Start very small with a container garden. Get a metal trough at a feed store, layer rocks in the bottom, then add a layer of sand and then good soil. (Or you can start even smaller with a single tomato plant or pepper plant in a pot.) 2. Plant corns, beans and squash — the Three Sisters! 3. Add herbs like basil, oregano and chives. 4. Plant edible flowers, like marigolds. You can pull the petals off and sprinkle them on a salad. They have a great peppery taste.

I’ve been doing this for 35 years, and when I began, there were no representations of Native foods anywhere. For so many years it was cyclical. I would come back in vogue every 10 years, always at Thanksgiving, and be on the Today Show. I’d tell about the real Thanksgiving — I do love to get out there and stir the pot. But now it’s happening! I have worked with and mentored and cooked alongside young chefs all over the country. We’re getting Beard awards and young chefs are opening new restaurants. This is one of my great joys.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Local Family Fun

Cultivating Creativity in OKC

Discover innovative outlets where imaginations can run wild BY LINDSAY CUOMO. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Creativity is the simplest form of self-expression as creative activities build confidence and celebrate uniqueness. Maya Angelou said it best: “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” The arts are for more than mere amusement. They invite kids to explore new skills and experiences while boosting sensory exploration, critical thinking and motor skills. Creative play also facilitates imagination and social interaction, which helps build empathy and other interpersonal skills. OKC offers a wealth of creative opportunities for the whole family. Get creative this spring at these innovative local spots!

Visual arts

Oklahoma Contemporary is a multidisciplinary arts center offering a wide variety of educational art-centered opportunities. Museum admission is always free, plus Oklahoma Contemporary provides free family-focused programming throughout the year. Second Saturdays include art-making experiences, gallery tours, music and movement opportunities and much more. Upcoming events on March 9 and April 13 will focus on tiny treasures and a mystery art lab, respectively. “The mystery art lab is a concept I have wanted to do for a while,” shared Christine Gibson, senior manager of youth and family programs. “We have gathered quite a collection of art supplies, and we want to see what kids and families can make. We are excited to see them go wild!” Teaching artists will be on hand to provide support and guidance. The May 11 Second Saturday event is all about summer camp so attendees can get an inside look at the activities available during summer break. No registration is required. Simply show up and expect to have fun. “We will have a variety of teaching artists on hand sharing what kids can learn about over the summer — ceramics, performance and music, DJing … A little bit of everything,” said Gibson. Gibson loves seeing kids break down barriers and build confidence, especially during Camp Contemporary, which takes place during spring and summer breaks. “Art provides self-expression and collaboration, art helps kids become problem solvers,” shared Gibson. “We aren’t looking for perfection; there is no right or wrong. I am always blown away to see kids grow through art.” Oklahoma Contemporary also offers adult studio classes and workshops. Learn more about their family programming at oklahomacontemporary.org/learn.

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KIDS CAN EXPLORE THEIR CREATIVE SIDE THROUGH A VARIETY OF MEDIUMS AT CAMP CONTEMPORARY, INCLUDING DJING WITH TONY TEE. PHOTOS BY CASSANDRA WATSON.

Additional visual arts options: • From jewelry and soap making to quilting, glasswork and mosaic, explore a variety of arts and crafts at The Craft Room in Warr Acres. • Edmond Fine Arts Institute offers art classes for kids as young as age 3 up to adults. • Admission is always free at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, plus families can print off the FJJMA Art Bingo card for a fun way to explore the art on display. • Norman Firehouse Art Center offers after-school classes in a variety of mediums that encourage kids to express themselves through art. • Make your next visit to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art a hands-on adventure. Pack a sketch pad and some pencils (pens are not permitted) and spend time drawing or writing about what you see in the galleries. The museum hosts drop-in art activities on the third Saturday of each month. Kids always get in free, and on the second Sunday of each month, adults do, too! • Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation offers a wide variety of arts classes and clubs, from toddler classes all the way up to ceramics for seniors. • Home to 18 galleries, merchants and artists, the Paseo Arts District offers a variety of workshops from pottery and needlepoint to dance. • Try your hand at hand-building, wheel-throwing and glazing at Preacher Pottery. Classes and workshops are available for kids, adult beginners and beyond.

OKC PARKS OFFERS A DIVERSE LINEUP OF PERFORMING ARTS FOR CREATIVES OF ALL AGES. PHOTOS PROVIDED BY OKC PARKS.

Performing arts

OKC Parks and Recreation is on a mission to provide cultural, social and recreational experiences that also promote wellness. Participants in their programs are invited to explore, learn and grow, all in a playful way. Performing arts programming is offered at several recreation centers, including NW Optimist, Taylor, Southern Oaks and Willa D. Johnson. From jazz band and guitar lessons to dance and musical theatre, kids and adults can tap in to their creativity and learn something new. They even have toddler acting classes, called Creative Dramatics, in which teachers use familiar fairy tales to help little ones practice following directions while exploring their imaginations. On Saturdays at the Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center, kids can drop in to a dance class from 3 to 5 p.m. The energetic class explores creative movement, music and self-expression utilizing a variety of dance styles. The inclusive environment is tailored to get kids moving and having fun with their peers. Classes are $5 for members. (Memberships start at $10 a month for kids and $15 a month for adults. A $5 discount for youth is available through a scholarship endowment.) Audition-based productions are open to anyone in the community. OKC Parks’ most recent production, Peter and the Starcatcher, will hit the stage March 7 through 9 at the Taylor Performing Arts Center. Follow OKC Parks on Facebook to keep up with all their fun programming.

Additional performing arts options: • The American Banjo Museum’s FREE Pick-a-Tune with Lucas sessions provide an introduction to playing the banjo. Participants must preregister online and complimentary museum admission is included. • Artworks Academy of Performing Arts offers classes through three schools: School of Dance, School of Theatre and School of Music. • Lyric Theatre’s Thelma Gaylord Academy offers an integrated program that includes private lessons, classes and camps. • Oklahoma Children’s Theatre provides live theatre and interactive educational experiences for young audiences, including after-school classes and camps. Running through April 7, see Dr. Suess’s The Cat in the Hat, a theatrical adaptation of the children’s classic starring the mischievous cat. • Classes in dance, pom, theater, acrobatics and more are open to all ages and abilities at Studio J Performing Arts Center. • The Studio of The Sooner Theatre in Norman offers classes and camps for acting, singing, dance, improv, magic and more. • Velocity Dance Center offers ballet, pom, hip hop, jazz and tap classes for kids ages 2 and up. Their Dance with Me class is perfect for toddlers who love to move with their favorite grown-up!

Culinary arts

When kids delve into culinary arts, they are channeling all their senses into the creative process, learning how to combine ingredients into delicious results. Plus, they benefit from the math, science and reading involved in cooking! Aimee Bush, the pastry chef at Belle’s Kitchen in Oklahoma City, has expanded their cooking classes so “families can learn something new and have some fun, too.” “It is so great to see [participants’] personalities shine,” shared Bush. “Our classes are first and foremost about having fun, and if you walk away with a bit more knowledge, then that’s great, too.” EVEN THE YOUNGEST CHEFS GET HANDS ON IN THE COOKING CLASSES AT BELLE’S KITCHEN. PHOTO BY AIMEE BUSH.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Local Family Fun Belle’s Kitchen offers family, adult, kid and couples classes, as well as camps when school is out. One of their most popular classes is Toddler Donut Fun, which tends to sell out fast. “The little ones get to use their muscles to roll the dough,” explained Bush. “They get to cut the donuts … and their favorite part is typically adding the sprinkles.” Kids can also learn how to make macarons, pretzels, cake, candy and more. Classes range from $15 to $40. Week-long camps are $200. Learn more at belleskitchenokc.com.

Additional culinary arts options: • Drop-in classes at Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center teach culinary skills as well as personal development and etiquette. Each hour-long class is just $5 with membership and is divided by age from elementary to high school. • Short-term classes at Francis Tuttle Technology Center invite students and adults to explore courses like cake decorating for beginners, a heart-healthy cooking series, cultural cuisine and more.

INNOVATIVE TECH AT ICODE BLENDS THE POWER OF CODING, STORYTELLING AND MORE WITH ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESSES, CRAFTING A UNIQUE CREATIVE EXPERIENCE. PHOTOS BY TYSON WOODARD AND KARA BROOKS.

STEAM

Animation, game design, digital photography, video production, animation – there are so many high-tech creative mediums that kids can explore! At iCode, their belt program builds foundational skills for kids as young as age 5 as they move through color-coded levels exploring programming, computational thinking, graphic design and more. The organization’s Paths programs let kids take a deep dive into their desired STEM topic of choice, including robotics. “We emphasize soft skills and innovation,” said Kara Brooks, director of iCode Edmond. “Kids work independently and as a team in different areas of the tech world.” Single-day and weeklong camps challenge kids to create using engineering design processes, mathematical concepts and project management, some of which are centered on popular platforms such as Minecraft, Roblox, virtual reality and YouTube. “You’d be surprised [by] just how much creativity goes into making a video game,” shared Brooks. “Kids have to create characters, the plot, a narrative and then code it.” iCode even offers a Digital Fashionista camp for ages 10 to 14 that explores high-tech projects such as LED earrings and light-up clothing.

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Additional STEAM options: • Library makerspaces are the ultimate creative workshops! Both Metropolitan Library and Pioneer Library systems offer makerspaces equipped with professional-grade tools such as 3D printers and laser engravers that families can access free of charge. You just need a library card. • While all of Science Museum Oklahoma inspires creativity, the Tinkering Garage and Tinker Works makerspaces are intentionally designed to pair STEAM experiences with hands-on learning. Whether your child is into cooking, drawing, performing, exploring STEAM or all of the above, OKC’s creative spaces will inspire their imaginations, hobbies and perhaps even career choices. Happy creating! Editor’s note: Find direct links to each of the creative spaces in this article at metrofamilymagazine.com/creative-spaces-in-okc.

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From Storm Clouds to Rainbows

Emily Sutton explains climate change and how families can help make a difference BY ERIN PAGE. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

As a child, Oklahoma City meteorologist Emily Sutton won a contest to talk with her town’s mayor about the importance of recycling. Her focus on caring for our Earth has persisted into adulthood. A mom now herself, Sutton says adults could use more of the wonder kids instinctively embody about the natural world, as well as their resolve to make a positive difference. Sutton has been experiencing Oklahoma’s extreme weather firsthand for 14 years. She started her job with KFOR just a few weeks before the infamous 2009 Christmas Eve blizzard. This past summer, she reported the state’s alltime heat index of nearly 127 degrees in Jay, Okla. Weather extremes like these can be a scary subject for kids. As a frequent speaker to school children, Sutton has a knack for helping kids understand these topics and empowering them to devise impactful solutions. We interviewed Sutton to get her take on the impact climate change is already making on our state, the implications for the future and what families can do now to turn the tide. METEOROLOGIST EMILY SUTTON HAS REPORTED ON OKLAHOMA'S EXTREME WEATHER FOR THE PAST 14 YEARS.

We think of Oklahoma as being a common place for weather extremes — but what are some of the extremes we’ve seen the past few years that you’d classify as abnormal? Within 14 years of being here — even by Oklahoma standards — we’ve had many abnormal weather events, starting, for me, with the Christmas Eve blizzard of 2009, which brought 14 inches of snow. We had the hottest summer on record in 2011, with 63 100 degree days (during which I decided to train for a triathlon!). In May 2013, we had two violent tornadoes hit major metropolitan areas, which is unheard of since less than 1 percent of tornadoes are classified as violent (EF4 or EF5). Only a week and half later, we also had the widest tornado on record, which was 2.6 miles wide with measured winds to nearly 300 miles per hour. This last summer, we set the all-time highest heat index in Jay of nearly 127 degrees. And those are just a few examples.

It’s easy to see how climate change affects farmers and others whose livelihoods are tied to the weather. But how does climate change affect everyday families here in the metro? I recently interviewed ranchers and farmers in Loyal, Okla. as they’ve watched the climate change through the years. They’re experiencing longer periods of prolonged drought. The past few winters, we’ve experienced La Niña, or unseasonably warm and dry conditions. Now we’ve switched to El Niño, which can mean below average temperatures and above average precipitation but doesn’t guarantee it. The impact for [these] farmers is that these

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temperature changes take a toll on cattle. Warmer years can mean more disease; colder years can mean more cattle dying off or needing extra coal to keep the cattle warm. These effects on agriculture do impact everyone. We think grocery prices are high right now, but as we have more extreme weather, we all pay out of pocket for that. Small temperature changes also mean insects are sticking around longer, so the mosquito season is longer. We also now have insects that have never before migrated this far north. The pollen season is longer, which can translate to more or worse allergies. Everything is connected to our weather. Climate change can be triggering and political for some — but at the end of the day, you don’t have to believe in climate change to believe in droughts and floods. Science is science. This is our planet — we are all living here and we should take care of it.

What are the implications for Oklahoma’s future? The extremes we’re noticing in our weather now will be normal for our grandchildren. The USGS (United States Geological Survey) climate models are in high agreement that Oklahoma can expect our temperatures to be hotter by about 2 to 5 degrees by midcentury, which isn’t that far away, depending on carbon emissions. With lower carbon emissions, OKC can expect an average of 10 additional 100 degree days each summer. With higher emissions, we’d have 20 to 30 additional 100 degree days.

Weather vs. climate Weather is what we experience every day.

Climate is the weather scientifically calculated over decades, specifically, weather averages over a 30-year period.

4 Locations to Serve You! Edmond • Yukon • OKC

SUTTON TEACHES KIDS ABOUT OKLAHOMA’S WEATHER THROUGH KFOR’S WEATHERSCHOOL PROGRAM.

We’re going to have to have rapid adaptation for infrastructure, electricity, roads and waterways. While we’re forecasting the same amount of precipitation on average, it’s going to happen in bigger bursts followed by longer periods of drought, which means more flooding. Our waterways, dams and roads are not meant to deal with that. It means more sink holes and washed out bridges, not to mention a rise in wildfires.

Weather can be a scary subject for kids — especially in Oklahoma. How can parents talk to our kids about climate change effectively and how can we make positive changes together? We always say, ‘don’t be scared, be prepared.’ Knowledge can help take away kids’ fears. Learn together. The National Weather Service and drawdown.org offer great resources. Then start doing things that help take care of our planet. Take out the recycling together. Start composting. Minimize plastics. Take shopping bags to the store. Look into solar panels or wind energy. It may seem overwhelming, but kids especially think they can take on the world. We can be inspired by them and leave a better planet for our kids and grandkids. Collectively, we can all use these mitigation techniques and we can vote for opportunities to help our planet.

SUTTON WARNS THAT THE EXTREMES WE’RE NOTICING IN OUR WEATHER NOW WILL BECOME NORMAL FOR OUR GRANDCHILDREN.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

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10 ways families can slow climate change Can one family really make a difference when it comes to combating climate change? We posed that question to Amy Young, founder of OKC sustainability-focused educational center SixTwelve, who says when families work together, we can move the needle toward positive change.

5. Plant native species in your yard, which contributes to biodiversity and also serves to conserve water. Consider symbiotic relationships, like plants that attract pollinators or planting garlic to keep aphids away from other plants, to improve sustainability.

“Making small, consistent changes over time can have a significant impact,” said Young. “It’s essential to involve children in these practices and create a supportive community that shares common goals for sustainable living.”

6. Improve your soil quality. Use compost to enrich your soil and consider practices like permaculture and raising worms to enhance soil health.

Young shares 10 ways families can help slow climate change and love our planet: 1. Educate children. Teach children how living a more sustainable life helps the Earth, plant and animal life and our fellow humans. 2. Be mindful of waste disposal. Consider what you can recycle instead. 3. Compost food waste. Food waste takes much longer to break down in a landfill, which releases more gasses and speeds up climate change. 4. Conserve water with water catchment systems. A rain barrel is a great way to start.

7. Reduce paper and plastic usage. Instead of using paper towels or napkins, use washable, reusable alternatives. 8. Support local businesses and corporations that prioritize environmental sustainability. 9. Be politically aware. Stay informed about political initiatives related to environmental conservation. Choose candidates who prioritize green legislation and value environmental preservation.

Sound overwhelming? Young advocates families choose just one step to focus on at a time.

10. Find a community of others committed to sustainable living. Research initiatives and best practices together and then encourage implementation.

“Don’t put pressure on yourself to do it all,” advises Young. “Integrate one thing per season that you can lovingly do for yourself and your family.”

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Mom Talk

Education Advocacy 101

4 tips for parents to make a positive impact BY CHRISTINA MUSHI-BRUNT

Education has been a hot-button topic of discussion across the country, in our state and in our local communities. With each news cycle and social media post, one can easily feel overwhelmed and maybe even powerless. However, as the saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” Participating well in anything requires getting to know as much as you can about the subject. The world of education advocacy is no different. The show tune “Getting to Know You” from the musical The King and I comes to mind: “Getting to know you. Getting to know all about you.” Whether you are dissatisfied with school lunch procedures or concerned about bullying policies or you want to better support teachers and administrators, there are effective ways to make your voice heard as an engaged parent. If the thought of advocacy feels intimidating, you are not alone. Your role in education advocacy can be as small or as large as your comfort level. Here are four tips to get started.

1. Get to know your parent advisory committee/council. Many public school districts and even private schools have an organization that brings the voices of parents into the decisionmaking process. Serving on these committees gives an insider view into what is currently happening or being planned for your child’s school. These committees also provide an opportunity to voice concerns and provide feedback to those who will ultimately be making decisions on your school and/or district’s behalf. Serving on my community’s school district patron advisory committee gave me a chance to better understand the details of a proposed bond that covered issues ranging from technology and child nutrition to school safety and building renovations. Plus, attending these meetings removes the mystery of how decisions are being made to meet the needs of the schools, students, teachers and staff in the district.

2. Get to know your local district advocacy organizations. Whether it is called a PTA or a PTO, parent-led advocacy organizations are one of the most effective means of communicating about and advocating for the needs of your child, their teachers and school. Gone are the days in which the role of these organizations was simply class party planning.

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Parent associations are engaged in legislative advocacy in real and meaningful ways. For example, many of these organizations provided support to teachers during the 2018 teacher walkout. Oklahoma PTA hosted a virtual state superintendent candidate forum in 2022 ahead of the midterm election in which the public was invited to send questions for the candidates to answer. At the local level, PTA units across the state, including Broken Arrow, Union, Tulsa, Norman and Moore Council PTA, have hosted candidate forums, issued voter guides to better inform parents’ decisions and held education town hall meetings with state legislators. Talk to your local school advocacy group to ask how you can be involved. If this has not been a priority for your school or district, gather like-minded parents together and create opportunities to make advocacy a priority.

3. Get to know your school board. According to the National School Boards Association, public school boards “represent the community’s voice in public education.” As a constituent, you elect the individuals who voluntarily serve on the school board to represent the best interests of students, teachers, schools and families. Attending your local and state school board meetings gives you another opportunity to learn about and understand the issues that affect your child, their teachers and school. School board meetings are also a space to voice concerns. Each meeting includes a time dedicated to public comment. Check your district’s school board website to become familiar with rules for public comment (like how to sign up to speak and time limits for comments). You can also initiate regular dialogue with your board members by emailing them directly.

4. Get to know your local and state representatives. Getting to know these elected officials can help you use your voice in a direct way. When reaching out to your representatives, oftentimes your first connection will be through their legislative aides. Whether it is by electronic or phone communication, be prepared to share the specific policy or bill number(s) you are contacting them to discuss. Speaking to your representatives doesn’t have to happen only when you have a concern. You can also reach out to them to share the positive things happening in your child's classroom, school and/or district. Brag about how your child's teachers are making a difference in their educational journey. Or simply thank them for supporting an education bill that has meaning for you and your family. As a parent, taking the time to get to know and understand the education system can empower you to become a part of the conversation. Use your knowledge and your voice to advocate for policies and actions that benefit your child, their classmates, teachers and schools.

What small (or big) step can you take this year to advocate for education? Share your thoughts with the MetroFamily team by emailing tips@ metrofamilymagazine.com.

Education advocacy resources School board regular meetings* • Oklahoma State Department of Education When: Last Thursday of each month (unless otherwise noted) at 9:30 a.m. Where: Oliver Hodge Education Building, Room 1-20, 2500 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC • School boards meeting on the first Monday of each month (unless otherwise noted): Edmond, Yukon • School boards meeting on the second Monday of each month (unless otherwise noted): Deer Creek, Midwest City-Del City, Moore, Mustang, Norman • School boards meeting on Mondays (typically once or twice per month): Oklahoma City, Putnam City

Editor’s note: Christina Mushi-Brunt is a former professor turned freelance writer and public health research consultant. Christina, her husband and their three kids reside in Moore, where she is active in the education community.

*List includes largest metro public schools; check your district’s website for exact dates.

Find your legislators and Education Committee members • oklegislature.gov/findmylegislature.aspx • okhouse.gov/committees/house/comed • oksenate.gov/committees/education Find and track education-related bills • Oklahoma State School Boards Association’s 2024 Legislation Tracking List Bill Index: tinyurl.com/Track-Bills Find clickable links to each of these resources at metrofamilymagazine.com/ education-advocacy.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Spring over to Shawnee For sunshine, art & culture ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY DEBBIE MURNAN

After a long stretch of cold winter days, I bet your family, like mine, is ready for new adventures. Not too far from home, Shawnee is a unique, multicultural gem located just 45 minutes east of the Oklahoma City metro. Easily accessible via I-40, take a family road trip to Shawnee this spring to enjoy sunshine at the brand new KidSpace Park, experience rich history and culture at area museums and indulge in tasty eats.

(ABOVE) SEE A WIGWAM AT THE CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION CULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER AND (BELOW ) HISTORICAL ARTIFACTS AT POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY MUSEUM.

Shortly after the Civil War, the area around Shawnee was settled by several Native American tribes, including the Kickapoo, Sac and Fox, Shawnee and Potawatomi, and by the late 1800s, the city’s continued growth and prosperity was fueled by the railroad industry. This rich history is captured beautifully throughout several of the museums found in Shawnee today. Plus, outdoor fun abounds, including at one of Oklahoma’s newest playgrounds, and unique dining experiences combine fresh seasonal favorites with live music and crafting. Spring Break is right around the corner, so hop in the car for an easy weekend excursion to experience these highlights of Shawnee.

History & museums

The Santa Fe Depot, built in 1902, is a perfect place to kick off a historical tour of Shawnee. This unique depot was built with limestone blocks and features a 60-foot turret, reminiscent of a castle. After operations ceased in 1971, the property was handed over to the Pottawatomie County Historical Society to be remodeled and managed as a railroad and historical museum. While the interior of the depot is closed to the public, it still serves as a visible reminder of the city’s dependence on trains back in the late 1800s. On the depot’s grounds, visitors can tour a historic tiny cabin, the first house built in Shawnee and once the home of Etta and Henry Beard, pioneers who helped shape Oklahoma. You can also visit the Pottawatomie County Museum to see the vibrant and diverse history through artifacts collected during Shawnee’s settlement. A children’s play area includes trains, games and imaginative role-play spaces.

DON’T MISS THE EGYPTIAN MUMMIES AT THE MABEE-GERRER MUSEUM OF ART!

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Next up, the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center is a recently renovated museum that exists to preserve the Potawatomi culture and educate the community on their traditions and history. The Citizen Potawatomi Nation is the ninth largest tribe in the United States, and this cultural center features incredible interactive exhibits focused on their early

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ways of life, the conflict and forced removal from the Great Lakes and their adaptations to life in Kansas and Indian Territory. The galleries include artifacts, tribal rolls and even a wigwam, or domed dwelling commonly built by First Nations people. The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art will be your final stop for this city’s historical tour. Located on the Oklahoma Baptist University campus, this is one of the oldest museums in Oklahoma. It was founded in 1919 in honor of Benedictine monk Father Gregory Gerrer, an acclaimed artist who collected a variety of items during his travels across Europe, Africa and South America. The art and artifacts on display span 8,000 years, including unique pieces like the South American shrunken heads, a full suit of armor and two Egyptian mummies!

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Opt outdoors

Chase away those winter blues with some time outdoors at KidSpace Park, a $3.5-million project completed in June 2023 that has become one of Oklahoma’s top five premier parks. During our visit, we were immediately awestruck by the fun, space-themed design, as well as the abundance of shaded seating across the property’s 7 acres. The central hub of the park includes a giant outdoor checkerboard surrounded by comfy, red lounge chairs. There are designated play areas for both younger (ages 2 to 5) and older (ages 5 to 12) children, offering age-appropriate playground equipment all surrounded by cushioned flooring and soft turf for additional safety. A unique attraction within the park is the ninja obstacle course, which includes a timer so kids can race the clock with each attempt. Next to the obstacle course, my boys had fun racing each other on the 40-yard dash track, each with their own lane and time clock. The park property is encircled by a paved walking trail, just under a half mile, for anyone wanting to log some steps while keeping an eye on their kids. Our family appreciated how pet friendly the park was so we could bring our leashed dogs along. Within the bounds of the park, families can enjoy easy access to a basketball court, two pickleball courts and an extensive skate park, which offers a wide range of ramps and features, all with different degrees of difficulty to accommodate all abilities. Open spaces abound for picnicking and outdoor games, like ping pong, cornhole, horseshoes and checkers. Located nearby on the OBU campus, check out the 18-hole OBU Disc Golf Course. Open to the public, the course is well-maintained, easy to navigate and offers a good mix of easy and technical shots to keep play interesting.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children Dining & crafting

After all that learning and play, your family is bound to need to refuel! One of our family’s favorite New American restaurants is Theopolis, an upscale neighborhood destination nestled in downtown Shawnee. The menu rotates seasonally to offer a fresh take on scratch-made favorites, like seafood tostadas, artisan flatbreads, burgers and street tacos. A full bar serves craft cocktails and local brews. Plus, you can catch live music on the dog-friendly patio. The Owl Shoppe is another locally-owned restaurant in the heart of Shawnee with friendly staff and beautifully plated meals. The menu includes wraps, salads, quesadillas and wellness bowls, making it hard to decide what to order. Every dish is made fresh offering a good balance of healthy vegetables and sides. Perk up with a cup of tea or coffee at Comma, a welcoming coffee shop in historic downtown that prides itself on creating a peaceful space that feels like home and facilitates connection with others. Lounge indoors or out on their pet-friendly patio while you enjoy a delicious baked treat and seasonal latte.

(ABOVE ) GRAB A TREAT AND A WALK-IN CRAFT AT COFFEE N’ CRAFTS AND (BELOW ) ENJOY BRUNCH AT THEOPOLIS.

Kids and adults alike enjoy expressing their creativity at Coffee N’ Crafts, a unique coffeehouse with all the supplies you need to paint a masterpiece. Beyond coffee, tea and baked goods, you can also order a “walk-in craft,” like a canvas or wooden cutout, to make your very own work of art. The facility offers several seating areas and workspaces to relax or paint using the community supply of brushes and paints.

Notable nearby stops

If you have time or end up spending the weekend in Shawnee, our family highly recommends a visit to Nomad’s Animal Encounters in Seminole, just under 30 minutes away. This experience is unlike any zoo because guests are brought into the enclosures to pet, feed and interact with each of the animals. They have a diverse list of animals to see, including both farm animals and exotic creatures, but our favorites were the native species, like the skunk, foxes, grey wolf, opossum, coyotes, bobcats and deer. We were truly captivated by these friendly inhabitants and inspired by the knowledgeable staff, who care deeply for these rescued animals.

TRAVEL TO SEMINOLE FOR UP-CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH A VARIETY OF RESCUED ANIMALS AT NOMAD’S ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS.

Seminole is also home to the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum, where various interactive exhibits help children foster imaginative play, curiosity and collaboration. Kids can dig for dinosaur bones, explore a climbing maze, enjoy an outdoor train ride or pretend to be a teacher in a classroom. The museum also offers rotating weekly programs to experience new books, puppet shows or STEM activities. History, novelty and outdoor fun abound in Shawnee. We hope your family enjoys the adventures as much as we did!

30 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Join MetroFamily for the BIGGEST PARTY of the year! ’ y l i m a F o r M et

s d i KST Fat ERose State College

APRIL 20

Saturday, April 20 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rose State College Student Union 1910 Hudiburg Drive, Midwest City

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Pre-register today to take advantage of discount pricing at metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest.

TOP 10 REASONS TO ATTEND KIDS FEST and kids under age 2 attend for FREE! 1 Adults Pre-register for a discounted ticket of $5 for ages 2-17 and receive a FREE small snow cone from Kona Ice. Tickets are $8 at the door. Pumpkin, the word’s smallest living horse, 2 Meet standing just over 23 inches tall, with Chester’s Party Barn. Plus, meet other furry friends and reptiles from Extreme Animals. a photo with your favorite princesses and 3 Take superheroes. to your heart’s content in a bounce house 4 Jump from Andy’s Altitude. out your footwork skills with Soccer City, 5 Test battle in the Arena 51 nerf zone, enjoy arts and crafts projects, play mini golf and much more.

awe-inspiring stage performances by Race 6 Watch Dance Collective, Nritya Arpan Dance School, Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers and Hưng Việt Drum Show & Lion Dancers. real bones and specimens with SKELETONS: 7 Touch Museum of Osteology and learn about drones with Rose State College Kids College. out a book to take home from Metropolitan 8 Pick Library Systems and visit the Maker Mobile from Pioneer Library. more than 35 vendors to discover new fami9 Visit ly-friendly attractions, businesses and resources.

10 Get entered for a chance to WIN fabulous prizes!

Calendar of Events OKC Family Fun in March & April Calendar Contents 33 Things to do in March 33 St. Patrick’s Day 35 Spring Break 36 Easter egg hunts

32 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

38 Experience the solar eclipse 40 Things to do in April 42 Spring festivals 44 Date night ideas

THE NATIONAL TOURING COMPANY OF WICKED, PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS.

Things to do in March THROUGH MARCH 10 OKC Broadway presents Wicked at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave). Long before Dorothy arrives, another young woman is born with emerald-green skin who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possesses an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships. Best suited for ages 8 & up. $40 & up. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2 & 8pm; Sunday, 1:30 & 7pm. okcbroadway.com

THROUGH APRIL 28 Bug Squad at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features a hands-on, animatronic insect adventure with sensory experiences and active spaces. Adults, $10; kids (4-17), $6; kids (3 & under), free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm. samnoblemusuem.ou.edu

MARCH 9 FREE Second OHOF Saturdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features complimentary admission, crafts, games and more. During the first hour, guests can take part in a sensoryfriendly experience. 9am-2pm. Also held: April 13. oklahomahof.com

FREE Second Saturday at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features a family-focused day of art-making, performances and gallery adventures for visitors of all ages. 1-4pm. Also held: April 13. oklahomacontemporary.org

MARCH 10 FREE Admission to Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features free admission the second Sunday of each month through June 2024. Noon5pm. Also held: April 28 during Festival of the Arts. okcmoa.com

MARCH 15-17 Jurassic Quest at Bennett Event Center (3101 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features an interactive adventure with realistic dinosaurs, dinosaur-themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows and interactive science and art activities. $20$39. Friday, noon-8pm; Saturday, 9am-8pm; Sunday, 9am-7pm. jurassicquest.com

MARCH 15-30 Storyteller Theatre Arts Co. presents Fairytale Farms at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features a living storybook production that lets guests join Little Red and her well-known friends throughout Fairytale Farms. $15; kids (3 & under), free. See website for show times. harnhomestead.com

St. Patrick’s Day MARCH 14

MARCH 17

Canterbury Voices presents For All the Saints at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a musical journey paying homage to the spirit of the Irish and the legacy of the saints (especially Patrick), with guests from the OKC Philharmonic. $23 & up. 7:30pm. canterburyokc.com

Sham-ROCK the Gardens at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a St. Patrick’s Day celebration with music, dancing, local food and artisan vendors, photo ops and more. Free to attend. 11am-2pm. myriadgardens.org

MARCH 16

St. Patrick’s Day Treasure Hunt in the Crystal Bridge at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a self-guided treasure hunt in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Follow clues that will lead you to the leprechaun’s treasure and learn more about tropical plants along the way. Best suited for ages 5-12. $2 plus admission. 1-2pm. myriadgardens.org

FREE St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Stockyards City (S Agnew Ave) features longhorns, marching bands, bagpipes, Irish dancers, the Shriners, community groups, equestrian entries and more. Following the parade, there will be activities for kids including balloon art, face painting and games. 10am-noon. stockyardscity.org

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Calendar of Events MARCH 16

MARCH 18-22

MARCH 22-24

Drop-in Art at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a come-and-go art activity. Free with admission. Adults, $17; seniors, $13; kids (17 & under), free. 11am4pm. Also held: April 13 & 20. okcmoa.com

Spring Break Drop-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 but all ages welcome. $2 suggested donation. 10am-noon. myriadgardens.org

The Oklahoma City Home + Outdoor Living Show at State Fair Park - Bennett Event Center (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features a variety of exhibitors and experts including Oklahoma’s own Linda Vater offering new inspiration, expertise and ideas. $11; kids (12 & under), free. Friday, noon-8pm; Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. homeshowokc.com

Heard on Hurd Street Fest in Edmond (Broadway Ave, 1st & Hurd St, Edmond) features local food, unique shopping and live music. Free to attend. 6-10pm. Also held: April 20. mycitizens.bank/heard-on-hurd Winter Jam at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features a lineup of some of the best and brightest names in Christian music. $15. 7pm; doors, 4pm. paycomcenter.com

MARCH 17 AT&T Sundays at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features free admission to the museum galleries for kid ages 4-12. 11am-5pm. Also held: April 21. famok.org

Spring Round-Up at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features family-friendly activities inspired by the exhibitions on display including a handson agricultural adventure and Chickasaw storytelling. Free with admission. 10am2pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org/kids

MARCH 19 FREE Sparky the Fire Dog’s Birthday at Oklahoma Firefighters Museum (2716 NE 50th) features complimentary admission to see the interactive exhibits at the museum. 9am-4:30pm. facebook.com/OkFireMuseum

MARCH 23 FREE Move Your ScissorTAIL BLOCK PARTY at Scissortail Park (403 SW 10th St) features free fitness classes, a DJ, food trucks, character appearances, a 3v3 basketball tournament and more. Players must preregister and be 15 or older to participate in the basketball tournament. 11am-4pm. scissortailpark.org FREE Smash Down at Southern Oaks Recreation Center (6818 S Walker Ave) features a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament open to all skill levels. For ages 8-17. Noon-4pm. Also held: April 20. okc.gov/departments/parks-recreation Harlem Globetrotters at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features part street ball, part interactive family entertainment with amazing feats of basketball, humor and acts of goodwill on and off the court. $35 & up. 2pm. paycomcenter.com Daddy Daughter Dance at Edmond Conference Center (2833 Conference Dr, Edmond) features a dance for daughters (ages 4 & up) and their dads (or father figures). Attendees enjoy dancing, a DJ, refreshments and a professional photographer. Preregister. $15. Two sessions available: 4:30-6:30pm & 7:30-9:30pm. edmondparks.com

MARCH 23-30 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. okc.jbfsale.com Disney Princess The Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a larger-than-life animation and theatrical production with popular princess, hero and villain songs, plus behind-thescenes stories. Best suited for ages 6 & up. $48 & up. 2pm. okcciviccenter.com

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MARCH 20-22 FREE Spring Thing! at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features springthemed activities, crafts and more. Stories will be read on the half hour until 1:30pm each day. Wednesday-Friday, 10am-2pm; Thursday, 5:30-7:30pm. oklahomahof.com

MARCH 26 Homeschool Days at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features a tour of the farm, plus activities that demonstrate the hardships, traditions and work ethic of early settlers. Preregister. $10. 10am-1:30pm. Also held: April 9 & 17. harnhomestead.com

Spring Break

Make family fun plans with our 5-day Spring Break itinerary!

Day 1

Take a family road trip to see Tulsa Zoo’s new BUGS exhibit that features gigantic robotic insects and arachnids in action. Keep an eye out for the stinkbug that releases scented air! If you prefer to stick close to home, plan a visit to a local makerspace to unleash some creativity. Check out metrofamilymagazine.com/ makerspaces-in-the-metro to find one near you.

Day 2

At First Americans Museum, take a deep dive into the unique histories, cultures, contributions and resilience of each of the 39 Tribal Nations that calls Oklahoma home. Next, visit your local library! Check out the Downtown Library just a few minutes from FAM.

Day 3 Get the wiggles out with a day exploring Myriad Gardens to see more than 30,000 spring bulbs in full bloom. Not far away, fuel up with a picnic at Scissortail Park. Scout out a picturesque spot on the Great Lawn or head south to Scissortail Lower Park to enjoy the sports courts and naturefocused playground.

Day 4 Explore local art museums! Check out Oklahoma Contemporary’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, where admission is always free. Then, visit Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which has the largest public collection of Chihuly glass in the world! Bonus: kids always get in free!

Day 5 Go wild and feed the animals at the Oklahoma City Zoo! Families can hang out with giraffes or the Indian rhinos and help with snack time. Reserve your animal feeding experience when you reserve your admission tickets online. Next, go exploring at Martin Park Nature Center to enjoy the changing of the seasons. The nature center offers cleverly hidden geocaching treasures, an ADA-accessible hiking trail and a bird wall.

Find more fun ideas at metrofamilymagazine.com/ spring-break. 

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Calendar of Events

Easter egg hunts

Find more Easter fun at metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-easter-fun-guide.

MARCH 23 FREE Moore Easter Egg Scramble at Buck Thomas Park (1903 NE 12th St, Moore) features age-divided egg hunts with prize eggs and candy. Bring your basket. All hunts start at 10:30am. cityofmoore.com FREE Choctaw’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Choctaw Creek Park (2001 N Harper Rd) features an age-divided egg hunt for kids 12 & under, plus other fun activities. 10am-noon. mychoctaw.org

MARCH 30 Easter Bunny Express at Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd) features a train ride to an Easter egg hunt, a moon bounce, scavenger hunt and more. 13 & up, $15; kids (3-12), $8; kids (under 3), free. 9am-4pm. See website for departure times. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

Save the date! Saturday, June 1 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mitch Park YMCA

MARCH 31 FREE Easter Egg Hunt at Nichols Hills United Methodist Church (1212 Bedford Dr, Nichols Hills) features two worship services and an egg hunt. Services, 8:30 & 10:50am; egg hunt, 10:15am. nicholshillsumc.org

APRIL 13 Curiousiday: Springtime Splendor at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features a joyful celebration of blooms and beyond with flower-themed crafts, an Easter egg hunt and more. Free with admission. 10am-4pm. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

Join us for a celebration of family health and wellness! Enjoy dozens of family fun activities and connect with local resources promoting physical health, mental wellness, nutrition and safety.

Hosted by YMCA of Greater OKC and Edmond Parks & Recreation

2901 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond

Learn more at metrofamilymagazine.com/thrive-fest.

36 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

FREE The Great Egg Hunt at Yukon High School (1777 S Yukon Pkwy, Yukon) features an Easter egg hunt, costumed characters, face painting, inflatables and more. 11am-1pm. discoveryokc.org

SPRING BREAK Camps OKC Parks Spring Break Day Camp

Mack’s Kidz Rock Rec: Spring Break

Outdoor Adventure Camp Spring Break

Southern Oaks Kidz Rock (Spring Break)

with Feild Trips Sellers Recreation Center 8301 S Villa Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73159 3/18/24 - 3/22/24 $135

with Feild Trips Sellers Recreation Center 8301 S Villa Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73159 3/18/24 - 3/22/24 $185

Macklanburg Recreation Center 2234 NW 117th St Oklahoma City, OK 73120 3/18/24 - 3/22/24 $10

Sellers Recreation Center 400 SW 66th St Oklahoma City, OK 73139 3/18/24 - 3/22/24 $10

Calendar of Events

April 8: Experience the solar eclipse On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States and Canada. While parts of Oklahoma will be in the path of totality, the OKC metro will experience coverage of about 93.9 percent at approximately 1:45 p.m. Waylon Troyer, planetarium director at Science Museum Oklahoma, shared some kid-friendly ways your family can safely experience the partial (or total) solar eclipse, “one of the rarest events in the cosmos.” “It may seem like we have eclipses often on Earth, but these events do not happen on every planet, or even in every star system,” said Troyer. “A lot of details have to line up perfectly for a total solar eclipse to happen, and we have the opportunity to experience that in April. The next time you have this chance in Oklahoma won’t be until 2045!” In the days leading up to the eclipse, create your own “eclipse” using a beach ball, a golf ball and a single source of light, such as a flashlight. Hold the beach ball and golf ball about one foot apart. Then, shine the flashlight on the golf ball. “You should see the golf ball’s shadow casting on the beach-ball-sized ‘Earth,’” explained Troyer. “As you spin the beach ball slowly or move the golf ball around the ‘Earth,’ you can see how the path of the shadow changes, creating your own ‘path of totality.’” If you don’t have eclipse glasses or an indirect viewer, there are still fun (and unique!) ways to experience an eclipse. During an eclipse, shadows act a little differently. Take a look at shadows cast by the leaves on a tree and you should see a cloud of tiny crescent shapes on the ground. You can create this yourself using a strainer, slotted spoon or anything that has small holes for the sunlight to travel through.

38 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Dos & Don’ts of viewing an eclipse safely Do: • Use eclipse glasses or an indirect viewer to observe the eclipse. • Inspect your eclipse glasses or handheld viewer before use. If torn, scratched or otherwise damaged, discard the device. • Listen, feel and see how your surroundings change during an eclipse. Don’t: • Don’t look directly at the sun without the right equipment. • Don’t use a telescope or binoculars to look at the eclipse without the correct filters.

Find more solar eclipse tips, including where to find eclipse glasses locally and how to create your own indirect viewer, here. 

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Calendar of Events

Things to do in April

APRIL 11-14 India Shrine Circus at Jim Norick Arena (333 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features aerial and acrobatics acts, clowns and more. Proceeds benefit India Shrine Center. 13 & up, $15; under 13, $10. Thursday, 7pm; Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 10am, 2 & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2 & 6:30pm. indiashrinecircus.org

APRIL 4 FREE VIBES Artwalk in downtown Edmond (Broadway, 2nd to Edwards St, Edmond) features 15 blocks of art experiences hosted in participating businesses. 6-9pm. edmondvibes.org

APRIL 5-6 Cirque Musica Heroes & Villains at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a musical production that celebrates heroes and villains from movies to comics to television. $27 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org

APRIL 6 Lake Sweep at Arcadia Lake (SE 15th St, Edmond) features a volunteer opportunity to clean up the lake shorelines and parks. Participants receive a t-shirt while supplies last. Preregister. 8-11am. edmondok.gov/338/Arcadia-Lake

APRIL 12-14 APRIL 6-7 Redbud Classic at Nichols Hills Plaza (Avondale & Western Ave) features events for the whole family including 10- and 30-mile bike tours, a 50-mile Fondo, 1-mile Woof Walk, 5k & 10k runs, 2-mile baby stroller derby and more. Proceeds benefit Focus on Home. Prices vary. redbud.org

APRIL 7 At the Circus with Phil! Family Discovery Series Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features Phil the Penguin and the OKC PHIL orchestra performing the thrilling sounds of circus music. $11. 2pm. okcphil.org

Sell. Buy. repeat.

IndigiPopX at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features a Native pop culture festival where families can learn about, experience and enjoy Native American pop culture. $25 & up; kids (3 & under), free. Friday & Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 11am5pm. indigipopx.com

Earn CASH when you sell us the toys, clothes, and equipment your kids have outgrown! SAVE BIG on the brands you trust with our everyday low prices.

metro family NORTH OKLAHOMA CITY 13801 N. PENNSYLVANIA AVE OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73134 405-286-3114 | VISIT US ONLINE

40 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Family

Favorites WI N N E R

C 2O23

APRIL 19 FREE Cox Community Day at Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave) features free admission to the museum. 10am6pm. oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org

APRIL 20 MetroFamily’s Kids Fest at Rose State College (1910 Hudiburg Dr, Midwest City) features petting zoos, bounce houses, character meet and greets, touch a truck, Pioneer Library Maker Mobile, Arena 51 Nerf Battle Zone, food trucks and 30 vendor booths, each hosting a kid-friendly activity. Kids (24 mos & up), $5 in advance, $8 at the door; adults & kids (ages 23 mos & under), free. 10am-2pm. metrofamilymagazine. com/kidsfest

OKC Daddy Daughter Dance at Civic Center’s Meinders Hall of Mirrors (201 N Walker Ave) features dancing, refreshments, a DJ, photo booth and more. All ages welcome. Preregister. $25 per person. 2:30 & 5pm. okc.gov/departments/parks-recreation OKC Beautiful’s Earth Fest at Scissortail Park (300 SW 7th St) features live music, classes, giveaways, kid's activities, vendors and more. 11am4pm. okcbeautiful.com/earth-fest

APRIL 26-27 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features an orchestra performing live to Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Relive the magic of the film in highdefinition on a 40-foot screen while hearing John Williams’ score. $57 & up. Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2pm. okcciviccenter.com

APRIL 26-28 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon at Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave) features a full marathon, kids marathon, half marathon, senior marathon and Memorial 5k. Benefits the museum. Prices vary. okcmarathon.com

APRIL 27 FREE Mama Mixer & Market at Wheeler Ferris Wheel (1707 S Western Ave) features locally owned OKC businesses and pop-up shops, plus free activities for kids including bounce houses, face painting and more. 9am-noon. facebook.com/mamasmoments.co

APRIL 28 FREE Admission to Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features free admission on closing day of Preston Singletary: Raven and the Box of Daylight. Noon-5pm. okcmoa.com

Find a full list of local events at metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar.

and the art of the flower

Georgia O'Keeﬀe, Calla Lily (Lily - Yellow No. 2), 1927, oil on canvas, 20 x 9 in., Oklahoma City Museum of Art, Westheimer Family Collection, 2005.056, © Georgia O'Keeﬀe Museum / Artist Rights Society (ARS), New York, photo © Oklahoma City Museum of Art

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Calendar of Events

Spring festivals MARCH 16 FREE Oklahoma Farm-to-Table Family Festival at Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features hands-on activities for all ages that highlight historic and modern farm life, demonstrating how food and household items have been traditionally made and grown. 10am-3pm. okhistory.org

MARCH 19-23 FREE Three Sisters Spring Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur) features Chickasaw culture, language, demonstrations and various activities celebrating the emergence of spring and the planting of essential crops. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am5pm. chickasawculturalcenter.com

MARCH 22-24 Guthrie Renaissance Fantasy Festival at Cottonwood Flats (308 N 5th St, Guthrie) features food, art, live entertainment and more. Costumes encouraged. Adults, $11; kids (5-13), $5; kids (4 & under), free. Friday, 3-9pm; Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. guthrierenfair.com Red Earth Festival at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features artistic creations of some of America’s most celebrated Native artists, plus hands-on arts and crafts stations, artist demonstrations, live music and special presentations of tribal dance throughout the weekend. Adults, $15; kids (6 & under), free with paid adult. 10am-5pm. redearth.org

MARCH 23 Chuck Wagon Gathering at the Chisholm Trail Museum (605 Zellers Ave, Kingfisher) features a variety of working chuck wagons from across the region, plus live music, cooking demonstrations, gunfights, Wild West Show performers, medicine man shows and more. Free with admission. 10am-2pm. okhistory.org

MARCH 23-24 OKCine Latino Film Festival at Yale Theater & Capitol Hill Library (227 SW 25th St, 327 SW 27th St) features a variety of feature films, documentaries and short films from local and international filmmakers

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as well as short films created by teams of high school students. Prices vary. See website for show times. historiccapitolhill. com/okcine-latino-film-festival

MARCH 30-31 Tulip Festival at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features 30,000+ tulip blossoms plus creative displays, vendors, live entertainment, activities for kids and more. Free to attend. 10am-5pm. myriadgardens.org

APRIL 5-7 Medieval Fair of Norman at Reaves Park (2501 Jenkins Ave, Norman) features arts, crafts, food, games, demonstrations and ongoing entertainment. Free to attend; parking, $10. 10am-7pm. medievalfair.org

APRIL 12-13 Crawfest at Kroner & Baer Pub (200 N Muskogee Ave, Tahlequah) features crawfish, games, live entertainment, activities for kids and more. Prices vary. Friday, 5pm-midnight; Saturday, noon-midnight. okcrawfest.com

APRIL 16-20 89ers Day Celebration in downtown Guthrie (various locations) features a parade, carnival, rodeo and a host of other community events. Most are free to attend. See website for a complete schedule of events. 89erdays.com

APRIL 25-27 FREE Norman Music Festival in downtown Norman (Main St & Jones Ave, Norman) features a free, three-day independent music festival with dozens of performers providing free arts, culture and entertainment. See website for schedule. normanmusicfestival.com

APRIL 25-28 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 Oklahoma City. Free to attend. Tuesday-Saturday, 11am9pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm. artscouncilokc.com

APRIL 26-27 Red Fern Festival in Tahlequah (Muskogee Ave, Tahlequah) features hound dog field trials, children's activities, a car show, live music and more. Attendees can also tour some of the famous locations from the novel Where the Red Fern Grows. Free to attend. See website for schedule. tahlequahmainstreet. com/red-fern-festival.html

APRIL 27 FREE Steamroller Print Festival at ARTSPACE at Untitled (1 NE 3rd St) features local artists, live printing, local vendors, food and beer trucks and more. 9am-5pm. 1ne3.org/steamroller-2024

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

El Reno 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-10pm. elrenoburgerday.com PHOTOS PROVIDED BY EL RENO MAIN STREET PROGRAM

MAY 4 Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park (2200 S Holly Ave) features a family-friendly festival with over 60 areas of fun including kayaking, pony rides, painting, inflatables, crafts and more. Activities are geared toward children 12 and under. $5 in advance, $8 day of; adults, free. 10am4pm. www.yukonok.gov/fun

Nominate your Family Favorites

Help MetroFamily name the best local businesses for families and you could WIN a family stacation*! Just follow these 3 simple steps. March 20 through April 10, 1 From nominate your favorite businesses, organizations and attractions for MetroFamily's Family Favorite Awards!

keep your eyes peeled for the 2 Then, voting round, May 1 through 15, and vote daily.

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March 19th-21st

Our jam-packed agenda includes STEM based activities, games, movies, healthy snacks, crafts & more!

time you nominate and vote you’ll be 3 Every entered for a chance to WIN.

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites to get started. FOR MORE INFO GO TO HEYDAYFUN.COM/CAMPS 3201 MARKET PLACE - NORMAN, OK ~ 405-310-3500 EXT: 3

*INCLUDES A TWO-NIGHT STAY AT THE ELLISON HOTEL IN OKC, SPECIAL TICKET PACKAGE TO OKC ZOO AND MORE!

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Calendar of Events

Date night ideas

PHOTO BY LOGAN WALCHER, PROXIMA BEAR PRODUCTIONS

THROUGH MARCH 9

APRIL 9-14

OKC Rep presents Vietgone at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features an all-American love story about two very new Americans during a pivotal moment in American history. $20 & up. See website for show times. okcrep.org

OKC Broadway presents Chicago at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz. Best suited for ages 13 & up. $30 & up. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2 & 8pm; Sunday, 1 & 7pm. okcbroadway.com

THROUGH MARCH 10 Twelfth Night at Shakespeare on the Paseo (2920 Paseo) features a romantic comedy about a triangle of unrequited love. $35 & up. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. okshakes.org/twelfth-night

MARCH 10 The Cameraman Silent Film with Organist Peter Krasinski at McKnight Center of Performing Arts (705 W University Ave, Stillwater) features film accompanist Peter Krasinski and a screening of Buster Keaton’s silent romantic comedy. $35 & up. 3pm. mcknightcenter.org

APRIL 12 Bubbles & Blooms at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a cocktail party with floral-inspired cocktails, light bites, live entertainment and skyline views on the roof terrace. For ages 21 & up. Members, $75; nonmembers, $100. 7-10pm. okcmoa.com

APRIL 13 Oklahoma Brewer’s Fest at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 Mickey Mantle Dr) features 50 craft breweries from across the state providing samples, including special festival release beers, plus a photo booth,

DJ and vendors. For ages 21 & up. $50 & up; designated drivers, $10. noon-3pm & 5-8pm. craftbeerok.org/brewers-fest

Scoot on in!

3 rides for 3 ages in 1 box

Help your dog & your family! You’ll all be happier with a well-behaved dog.

Thank you metro family for voting Family Favorites us Best WINNER Toy Store! O KC 2 O23

7638 N. Western, OKC 405-848-1415

44 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

We offer quality dog training: • Obedience classes • Boarding school • Private lessons

• Behavior curbing

405-621-5635 | 9217 NW Expressway, OKC | myk9u.com

MetroFamily’s 2024 Summer Camp Guide Options for every child’s interests! Spark learning, creativity, friendships and fun with the summer camps, classes and activities inside! Whether your child loves STEAM, horseback riding, music, outdoor adventure, art or anything in between, find the right fit in these pages.

How Rose State Kids College & Teen Scene is inspiring lifelong interests and careers

Details about a wide variety of summer camps around the metro

Advice from a local mom on choosing the right camp for your child Search online for camps by location and your child’s interests at metrofamilymagazine.com/summer-camps. 

PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Summer camp inspires lifelong learning adventures

Rose State Kids College offers diverse courses and hands-on experiences BY REBECCA FAST. PHOTOS PROVIDED. SPONSORED BY

As a kid, Hunter Billen looked forward to having fun at summer camp every year, and he likely couldn’t have guessed the lasting impact attending Rose State Kids College would make on his life. Inspired and intrigued by his engineering-related camp experiences, Billen’s post-high school studies included attending Rose State College and then Oklahoma State University, where he received a degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering. Now a structural and payload engineer for Boeing, Billen gives back as an

instructor at Rose State Kids College, helping teach some of the aerospace and engineering-related courses. “I really enjoy aviation and I like seeing the kids’ minds light up when they’re learning something new,” said Billen. “It doesn’t matter if they’re interested in aviation as a career; it’s about exposing them to a variety of different industries and experiences. Maybe it’s a new hobby or sport they get to try out during camp; it piques their interest, and they get to take that knowledge with them.”

Unique Experiences at Rose State Kids College & Teen Scene With more than 100 classes available, students can register for individual courses, a week or the entire summer. Check out a sneak peek at course offerings for summer 2024: First and Second Grades Lego S.T.E.A.M. Candy Chemistry Physics Fun: Creation and Destruction Dawn of the Dinos Pokemon: Gotta Catch ‘Em All!

Third and Fourth Grades Minecraft Ocean Voyage

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Stop Motion Animation Coding Competition Lego Master Builders Buggin’ Out

Fifth and Sixth Grades Mural Art: Kids Addition Roblox Studio Roll Like BB8: Sphero Drones Comics Collide: Marvel vs DC Let’s Race Drones

Teen Scene Esports: Smash and Rocket League 3D Printing: Join the Force Movie Making Madness Battling Bots Let’s Fly Drones

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KIDS IN GRADES K-9 ENJOY A VARIETY OF HANDS-ON LEARNING PROJECTS AT ROSE STATE KIDS COLLEGE & TEEN SCENE.

Learning adventures for every interest Matthew Weinrich, who serves as the director of K-12 initiatives at Rose State College, says it’s the diversity in course options that sets their summer camp apart from others. “We have our STEM-focused classes, but we also offer basketball, painting, bowling and an alpaca experience where students travel to different alpaca farms,” said Weinrich. “The kids are having fun but they’re also learning something new each day from qualified instructors and industry experts. For instance, when Hunter is sharing how to design a rocket, he’s also able to share how he helps design airplanes for Boeing. We also have a retired Navy captain and local meteorologist, among many others, who generously share their time and expertise with our students.” Billen says he was always the type of kid who liked taking things apart and seeing how they worked, a quality that is encouraged at Kids College. “What’s unique about Rose State’s camp is the hands-on experience kids receive to explore whatever it is they’re learning that day,” said Billen. “The instructors really support their curiosity and the college cares what the kids and parents think. They want feedback about the programs and will evolve classes to fit the needs of the students they’re serving.”

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More than 2,500 kids attended Rose State’s Kids College and Teen Scene summer camp in summer 2023, and Weinrich expects as many or more this year. “We’re constantly reviewing our courses and designing new curriculum to keep kids interested and actively engaged,” said Weinrich. “It’s always great to see kids at the end of the day excited to share with their parents about what they did that maybe they’ve never done before.” Weinrich adds that the camp has a familytype atmosphere and regularly sees kids develop lasting friendships. “We have several families whose sibling groups have all attended our camp over the years and kids who look forward to seeing their friends each summer,” said Weinrich. “Many of our staff members have been involved in this program for years as well. It’s really a positive and encouraging environment.”

Morning and afternoon sessions are available Monday through Thursday covering a variety of topics, including art, photography, archery, video game design, Esports, robotics, 3D printing and more. Students can attend a single session or both morning and afternoon sessions with a supervised lunch period in between. All classes are taught by certified instructors. Camp fees are $90 for one week of morning or afternoon sessions, $180 for one week of both morning and afternoon sessions (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or $200 for a week of both sessions plus before and after care. Registration opens March 14. Find out more at workforce.rose.edu/stem.

Rose State’s summer camps offer eight weeks of educational fun for kids in kindergarten through ninth grade. Kids College classes are designed for kindergarten through sixth grade students and Teen Scene activities are for seventh, eighth and ninth graders.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Summer Camp Guide Artsy Learning Academy

riding experiences with individualized riding lessons in a safe, family-friendly environment. Half-day and full-day options available. Campers also enjoy fun specialty days including a fishing adventure and water activity day.

2305 Westpark Drive, Norman 405-659-4774 melesa@artsylearningacademy.com artsylearningacademy.com June 10-July 25, $265-$1,000

Canterbury Voices, Oklahoma City University 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC 405-232-7464 sing@canterburyokc.com canterburyOKC.com June 3-7, $225

Cadence Equestrian Center

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.

14150 S Pine St, Edmond 405-513-4488 office@cadenceequestrian.com cadenceequestrian.com June 3-Aug. 9, $275-$525 per week Learn all about horses and horseback riding at Camp Cadence. Weekly camps for ages 5-14 provide indoor and outdoor

Oklahoma Contemporary 11 NW 11th St, OKC 405-951-0000, info@okcontemp.org okcontemp.org/camps May 28-Aug. 2, $245

Camp Canterbury

Kids ages 3-12 explore their creativity in week-long, art-filled day camps. Rotating themed stations include canvas painting, science experiments and STEAM activities. Classes are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday drop-in options available.

Camp Contemporary

Camp Contemporary offers a dynamic and hands-on lineup of week-long arts camps for kids ages 5-12 guided by local creators. Classes include sculpting, painting, sewing, drawing, dancing, storytelling and so much more. Camps fill fast. Early access to registration and discounts on tuition available to members.

Camp DaKaNi Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma 3309 E Hefner Rd, OKC 405-478-5646, info@campfirehok.org campfirehok.org/campdakani June 3-July 26, $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.

VOTED BEST SWIM LESSONS IN OKC 5 YEARS IN A ROW!

YOUR FIRST CLASS IS ON US! 405.721.8807 OKLAHOMACITYDANCESTUDIO.COM

J.D. McCarty Center

The J.D. McCarty Center in Norman is a hospital for children with developmental disabilities. We offer inpatient and outpatient services.

Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities and are designed to improve their skills and confidence and promote independence.

405-307-2800

www.jdmc.org

2002 E. Robinson St. Norman, OK

WHAT WE OFFER

What we offer Therapy services

Free therapeutic screenings Specialized clinics Summer camp

Family resources

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Survival Swim Lessons (12 months & up) Parent-Tot Classes (6 - 24 months) Sensory-Friendly Adaptive Aquatics Stroke Development Experienced Instructors Warm Water Pools Year-Round Swim Programs

Teaching all ages a love for safe swimming! (405) 509-5415 | OKLAHOMASWIM.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Summer Opera Theatre Camp June 3-22 Norman, OK

Enrollment Open Now! Students aged 8-18 take part in this 3-week camp that provides instruction in voice, dance, acting, and audition preparation, plus a lot of friendship, teamwork and fun! Camp concludes with fully staged performances of The Gondoliers by Gilbert and Sullivan!

Questions? Contact: Natasha Naik: natasha@cimarronopera.org or visit our website at the QR code

ENROLL FOR

Summer Camps! Multiple 5 day camps for ages 4-15 years Preregister old. June-August by Friday $125 for half-day, before camp $225 for full day and SAVE!

Lil’ Kickers program Ages 18 months-9 years learn soccer skills at their age-appropriate level, all with an emphasis on fun.

Email Tyler at:

ty@soccercityokcity.com for availability and more info

Email Hayden for availablility hayden@soccercityokcity.com

soccercityokcity.com

Come in for a FREE TRIAL CLASS! If you love it, REGISTER and mention this ad to receive your first Lil’ Kicker class free! (One class free upon registration) Check our website for details and enrollment or Call TODAY! SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

4520 Old Farm Road, OKC (west of Meridian, south of 122nd)

405-748-3888

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Summer Camp Guide Camp Invention 5 metro locations: Oklahoma City, Mustang, Yukon, Norman & Choctaw 800-968-4332 campinvention@invent.org invent.org/local June-July, $270-$370 Inspire your child’s creativity and confidence with the all-new Camp Invention® program Illuminate. Campers in grades K-6 team up with friends for hands-on, open-ended STEM fun. Campers design their own light-up ball game, explore the science of illumination, tackle global water challenges and star in a prototyping game show. Early bird savings available through March 27 with code LOCAL25.

Child Care Inc. 7 metro locations 405-942-1250, info@childcareinc.com childcareinc.com May-August, $150 per week

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This full-service summer camp program provides licensed child care for infants through age 13. Camp includes three daily meals and snacks, transportation to various activities and field trips and exclusive access to Linwood Lab, where children interact with virtual reality programs, 3D toy printers, art, music and STEM activities in a child-led environment.

Cimarron Opera Theatre Camp Cimarron Opera Company 235 W Duffy St, Norman 405-509-3664 natasha@cimarronopera.org cimarronopera.org/opera-theater-camp June 3-22, $400-$500 Youth ages 8-18 take part in this 3-week camp that provides vocal instruction, dance and acting basics and audition preparation, plus a lot of friendship, teamwork and fun. The camp concludes with fully staged performances of an operetta for family and friends. This is a great opportunity for high school students preparing for college

auditions, students looking to expand their skills as performers or youth seeking a fun summer. Scholarships available.

FAMcamps at First Americans Museum 659 First Americans Blvd, OKC 405-594-2156 camp@famok.org famok.org/famcamp June 3-Aug. 2, $90-$135 FAMcamps at First Americans Museum provide learning experiences for youth entering grades K-8 in a uniquely Indigenous-centered environment. Each week-long, thematic course focuses on arts and culture, health and wellness and STEM for youth ages 5-13. Teen workshops for ages 13-17 are also available. Camps are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; before and after care available. Everyone is welcome – campers do not need to be First American to attend or qualify for a scholarship.

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School’s out, but the learning doesn’t stop! Join us for our 2024 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, Minecraft, Roblox and Drones. Make sure your child has a summer to remember! Learn more at ROSE.EDU/KIDSCOLLEGE

Over 18 80 Class Options Register for individual classes, the whole week, or the whole summer.

June 3rd to August 1st GRADES K-9

405-736-0220

LEARN MORE at rose.edu/kidscollege

Summer Camp Guide Heroes In Waiting

iCode

3000 W Memorial Rd, Ste 123-343, OKC 405-510-2349, info@heroesinwaiting.org heroesinwaiting.org

2217 NW 178th St, Ste B, Edmond 405-757-0500 edmond111@icodeschool.com icodeschool.com/edmond111/camps

Heroes In Waiting offers a FREE 12-lesson curriculum for youth that goes beyond basic anti-bullying information to incorporate currently understood principles and best practices for meeting children’s core needs of safety and belonging, as well as cultivating an environment conducive to their social and emotional development. Curriculum available to schools, families and youth programs and organizations.

HeyDay Entertainment 3201 Market Pl, Norman 405-310-3500, x3 carson@heydayfun.com heydayfun.com/camps June & July, $55 per day + supply fees HeyDay’s summer camp for kids ages 5-14 includes STEM focused learning activities, games, movies, healthy snacks, crafts and more. Lunch is included for all campers.

May 28-Aug. 2, $425 iCode summer camps for ages 6-18 are actionpacked 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 16-July 18, $1,250

Full & Half Day summer

Horse Camps! Half Day $275/per week

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. Four sessions available for ages 9-14.

Lighthouse Charities Youth and Adult Sailing Camps Oklahoma City Boat Club 9101 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC 405-440-3054, learntosailokc@gmail.com okclighthouse.org June 3-Aug. 9, $200-$500 Hosted by the Oklahoma City Boat Club at Lake Hefner, week-long camps for ages 8-15 teach the basics of sailing in a safe, educational and fun environment. Adult clinics, private lessons and family lessons also available.

Lighthouse Charities Sailing Camps May - August Ages: 8-Adult Weeklong summer camp sessions take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, June through August.

MON - FRI, 9 am - Noon Ages 5 - 14 (no experience necessary) Free Camp T-Shirt & Photo

Full Day $525/per week

OKL

L 52 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

405-513-4488 • 14150 S Pine St, Edmond

Oklahoma City Boat Club 9101 Lake Hefner Parkway, OKC 405-440-3054 • OKCLighthouse.org

See all summer camp dates and register at  cadenceequestrian.com/camps

GHHTOHMOA U

SECITY

So many activities available! Learn more about our camps.

(no experience necessary) Free Camp T-Shirt & Photo

Registration is open to youth ages 8-17 and costs $275 per week for OCBC members and $325 per week for non-members. All skill levels welcome.

A R AT C L U I I T I E S,

MON - FRI, 9 am - 3 pm Ages 6 - 14

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAMP LYRIC

at the Thelma Gaylord Academy

SUMMER CAMPS

Auditions are April 7th! Sign up here: tinyurl.com/TGASummer24Auditions

O K L A H O M A YO U T H L I T E R AC Y P R O G R A M PRE SE NT S

LEARNING AT THE HUB

SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM MAY 20 - AUGUST 2

MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

PLAZA THEATRE CAMPS Ages 7-14

Ages 6-12

Ages 7-14

$65 REGISTRATION FEE

(FEE INCREASES TO $85 AFTER MARCH 1 ) ST

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

$125 PER WEEK

. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY . BREAKFAST & LUNCH INCLUDED

June 3-8

June 17-30

TOUR CAMPS Ages 14-18

June 1-15

Ages 14-18

July 8-21

. DHS ACCEPTED . BEFORE & AFTER CARE AVAILABLE FOR ADDITIONAL COST . SUMMER CURRICULUM, RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES, FIELD TRIPS & MORE . STREAMTM - SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, READING, ENGINE, ARTS, MATH

July 6-20

405 524-9310 thelmagaylordacademy.com

For Children Who Love to Sing!

JUNE 3-7 • 2-8 GRADE Monday-Friday 9-4 PM

before & after care available

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

singing music theatre drumming folk dancing artful music and MORE!

CampCanterbury.com | 405-232-7464 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Summer Camp Guide Lyric Theatre Thelma Gaylord Academy Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma 1727 NW 16th St, OKC 405-524-9310 rozz@lyrictheatreokc.com thelmagaylordacademy.com/camps June 1-July 31, $350-$550 Camp Lyric includes exciting musical theatre production camps for ages 6-16 in a professional theatre setting with fully realized performances, as well as touring productions that travel the metro performing for hundreds of children each week. Lyric also hosts technical theatre camps that teach campers how to make theatre magic happen backstage.

Mathnasium of Edmond and Deer Creek 1177 E 2nd St, Edmond 12309 N Council Rd, OKC 405-348-6284, edmond@mathnasium. com, deercreek@mathnasium.com mathnasium.com June 1-Aug. 31, $289-$489 per month Mathnasium of Edmond and Deer Creek offers Camp Mathnasium for grades 1-8, which includes unlimited math sessions in June, July and August at the Mathnasium of your choice (Edmond or Deer Creek). Enjoy a 4-day robotics mini-camp, dive into science and math with a 4-day STEM minicamp or take part in both. Each mini-camp offers four sessions.

Metropolitan Library System Summer Reading 2024 300 Park Ave, OKC 405-606-3837 metrolibrary.org/summerschool 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 7777 S May Ave, OKC 405-682-1611, ext. 7205

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kristi.l.carlucci@occc.edu occc.edu/summercamp May 28-July 19, full day: $170, half day: $85 College For Kids is a 7-week summer camp that offers a variety of classes 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 with weekly camps typically $135 Each OKC Parks recreation center offers its own set of summer camps for ages 6-12, from weekly options with varying themes and field trips to half-day or full-day camps. 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 Hall of Fame Summer Thursdays 1400 Classen Dr, OKC 405-235-4458 oklahomahof.com June 6-July 25 Beat the heat this summer by enjoying free family fun every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oklahoma Hall of Fame Summer Thursdays include free admission, story time, games, crafts and art activities all themed around Oklahoma Hall of Fame members. Open to groups; call in advance so space can be reserved. Best suited for ages 2-12.

Oklahoma Swim Academy 15001 Gambels Trail Dr, OKC 405-509-5415 schedule@oklahomaswim.com oklahomaswim.com Starting at $90 per month, depending on program Oklahoma Swim Academy teaches all ages a love of safe swimming. Ensure your child’s safety year-round by enrolling in OSA’s high-quality swim program with experienced instructors that teach true survival swim skills with a child-centered, gentle approach. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2 LOCATIONS: EDMOND & DEER CREEK

Math

$399/mo

STEM

$289/ea

Robotics

$289/ea

This 3-month camp is a great way for your child to keep up their math skills so they’re ready to go in the fall. Includes a customized learning plan with live, face-to-face instruction and tons of fun! UNLIMITED SESSIONS JUN - AUG!

Four days of fun STEM projects that your kiddo will love! Camp includes FREE T-shirt! Two camps to choose from at each location. Camps run Mon-Thur from 10am to noon.

During this fun-ﬁlled, 4-day camp, your child will build a fully functioning robot! Camp includes a FREE T-shirt! Two camps to choose from at each location. Camps run Mon - Thur from 10am to noon. SPACE IS LIMITED!

SCAN HERE for dates, times, details and to sign up! * Summer Math Camp runs 6/1/24 - 8/31/24. Price includes $50 monthly discount if registered before May 27, 2024. Camps available at Edmond and Deer Creek locations.

Dyslexia • Dyscalculia • Dysgraphia • Level 1 ASD • Sensory and Motor Processing

! P U R E M CAMP UM

SINTENS

July 8th-19th Y ! A s IVE & D for more detail 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

$650

e website

ks | Se e e w h t o b for

LOOK FORWARD TO: • Reading Intensives • Language Arts • Math Intensives • Group Reading Therapy • Summer Activities & Crafts • Field Trips • Water Play Day! SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Call or email for more information (405) 525-5600 office@trinityschoolokc.org or enroll now by visiting www.trinityschoolokc.org/summer-up

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Summer Camp Guide Oklahoma Youth Literacy Program

pieces on the wheel and two to three pieces by hand-building.

5517 NW 23rd St, OKC 405-601-3055 info@okylpokc.org okylpokc.org

Rose State College Kids College & Teen Scene

May 20-Aug. 2, $125 per week Camps provide educational enrichment, field trips and meals Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. One-time $65 registration fee required. Drop-in and after care available.

Preacher Pottery 7518 N May Ave, Ste B, OKC 405-342-0500 micah@preacherpottery.com preacherpottery.com June 3-27, $99 In this 4-day camp, kids ages 7 and up receive an introduction to wheel throwing techniques, ceramic hand-building and glazing. Each student will make four to five

6536 SE 15th St, Midwest City 405-736-0220 kidscollege@rose.edu workforce.rose.edu/stem June 3-Aug. 1, free-$200 per week Explore aerospace, drones, rockets, Minecraft, Roblox, coding, meteorology, chemistry, alpacas, movie making, Legos, robotics, martial arts and so much more during this 8-week camp. Options available for kids in grades K-9. Register by the class, for a week or for the whole summer.

Science Museum Oklahoma 2020 Remington Pl, OKC 405-602-6664 reservations@sciencemuseumok.org sciencemuseumok.org/summer-camps

June 3-Aug. 2, check website for pricing School might be out, but the learning doesn’t have to stop! At Science Museum Oklahoma’s summer camps, each week explores a different science theme, ensuring young scientists get a new experience every time. Early Explorers camps are for PreKkindergarten, Explorers camps for grades 1-3 and Innovators camps for grades 3-4.

SoccerCity OKC 4520 Old Farm Rd, OKC 405-748-3888 hayden@soccercityokcity.com soccercityokcity.com June-August, $125-$250 Ages 4-15 enjoy soccer drills, games and scrimmaging against other campers, all led by trained instructors. Multiple weekly camps are offered throughout the summer with half-day and full-day options available. The year-round Lil’ Kickers program for ages 18 months to 9 years also continues in the summer.

JUNE 4-28th 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Francis Tuttle Technology Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. Jason Brunk, Executive Director, Human Resources, jason.brunk@francistuttle.edu, Dr. Jaared Scott, Deputy Superintendent, jaared.scott@francistuttle.edu, and Bryan Roybal, Special Services Advisor – 504 Coordinator, bryan.roybal@francistuttle.edu. 12777 N. Rockwell Ave, OKC, OK 73142. (405) 717-7799

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Closed June 19TH

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LIKE ICODE

SUMMER! STEM SUMMER CAMPS

Summer Program

• Licensed childcare • All meals and snacks • On-site creative activities • Field trips • Exclusive access to our STEM focused Linwood Lab where kids can participate in a variety of science, technology, engineering, art and math activities.

Seven locations to choose from. See them all at childcareinc.com. 

Secure your spot and save today at

childcareinc.com | 405-942-1250 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Summer Camp Guide St. Mary’s Episcopal School 505 E Covell, Edmond 405-341-9541 smesoffice@smesedmond.org smesedmond.org/student-life/summer.cfm

into the world of theater with an enchanting Peter Pan Jr. camp or groove to the beat at dance camps featuring fun themes. For older dancers, intensive sessions refine skills and ignite passion.

June 3-July 29, $200-$225

Summer Quest

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 6 weeks or pick the weeks that work best for you.

Francis Tuttle Technology Center 12777 N Rockwell Ave, OKC 405-717-4900 francistuttle.edu/summer June 4-28, price varies

office@trinityschoolokc.org trinityschoolokc.org/summer-up July 8-19, $650 Trinity School’s Summer Up! program is a 2-week summer day camp combining reading therapy, math intervention and summer fun for students in grades K-8. Campers receive morning academic instruction followed by an afternoon filled with fun, educational activities, including art, science, gaming and water sports. Camp runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Summer Quest at Francis Tuttle provides students ages 11-15 with 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 2.

Velocity Dance Center

June-July, $75 & up

Trinity School at Edgemere

Budding stars ages 2-18 can join Studio J for an exciting lineup of classes and camps. Dive

3200 N Walker Ave, OKC 405-525-5600

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

Studio J Performing Arts Center 2241 NW 178th St, Edmond 405-348-3377 info@studiojdanceok.com studiojdanceok.com

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Ste A-11, OKC 405-721-8807 admin@oklahomacitydancestudio.com oklahomacitydancestudio.com July, prices varies

LIMITED SPACE AGES 3-12

ARTSY LEARNING ACADEMY’S

SUMMER CAMP

7 weeks: Tue/Wed/Thur 9:30-2:30 OptionalDrop In Mondays 9:30-2:30 June 10- July 25 2024

DAILY CANVAS PAINTING SCIENCE & CRAFTS 1ST PAYMENT DUE 5/25 EPIC FUNDS ACCEPTED

WE OFFER BIRTHDAY PARTIES!

DROP IN MONDAYS FUNDAY WITH PIZZA

ARTSY LEARNING ACADEMY, PRIVATE SCHOOL PRESCHOOL -6TH GRADE ACCREDATION THROUGH COGNIA THE PARENT CHOICE TAX CREDIT

WWW.ARTSYLEARNINGACADEMY.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Summer session | May 28 - Aug. 2

SUMMER ART CAMPS Weeklong art adventures for creative kiddos ages 5-12 Member registration opens: Monday, March 25 General registration opens: Monday, April 1 Drawing | Painting | Sculpture | STEAM | Performance | Much more See camp descriptions and register at okcontemp.org/camps

11 NW 11th St., OKC, OK 73013 | okcontemp.org | @okcontemp

Summer Camp Guide YMCA Camp Classen 10840 Main Camp Rd, Davis 580-369-2272 ccinfo@ymcaokc.org campclassen.org June 2-July 20, $950-$1,750 YMCA Camp Classen is a traditional overnight summer camp nestled on 2,200 acres in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma. Open to campers ages 7-16, Camp Classen provides the perfect setting for adventure, learning, growth and fun. With a wide variety of activities from archery and horseback riding to hiking and canoeing, campers gain skills and confidence to propel them forward in life. With eight week-long sessions to choose from, campers can attend a single week, two weeks or even come for the whole summer.

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Day Camp Multiple locations throughout OKC jgoyette@ymcaokc.org ymcaokc.org/summer-day-camp Late May-early August, starting at $165 per week Kids 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.

COLLEGE FOR KIDS

Summer Camps

Online

Find the online, searchable directory of MetroFamily’s 2024 Summer Camp Guide at metrofamilymagazine.com/ summer-camps. 

WHO:

For students entering 1st through 8th grade in the Fall 2024 school year.

WHAT:

Summer classes that encourage creativity and fun!

WHERE:

Oklahoma City Community College

WHEN:

May 28 - July 19 9 AM - 4 PM Before and after care are available.

COST:

Full day: $170/week Half day: $85/week Free lunch included.

ENROLLMENT: CONTACT:

Opens Monday, April 22 at 9 AM Kristi Carlucci at kristi.l.carlucci@occc.edu or 405-682-1611 x7205

FOR ENROLLMENT & COURSE SCHEDULE, GO TO: OCCC.EDU/SUMMERCAMP

G R E AT N E S S W I T H I N Y O U .

COMMUNIT Y AROUND YOU. SUCCESS AHEAD OF YOU.

60 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

OCCC.EDU 4 0 5 . 6 8 2 .1 6 1 1 E X T. 7 2 0 5

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

FIND YOUR

ADVENTURE Give your kids the BEST. SUMMER. EVER. Ride a horse, climb a mountain and aim for adventure at YMCA Camp Classen.

DID YOU KNOW...

98%

of campers leave feeling more confident

94%

of campers leave feeling encouraged

95%

of campers leave feeling supported

90%

of campers learn how to make new friends

ONE-WEEK SESSION

$950 per session

$713 per session with YMCA household member discount

YMCA household members receive 25% discount

YMCA

CLASSEN

Flexible payment options & financial assistance available. Visit our website for more information.

Last Look

Parent Pundits

Bite-sized wisdom from a local parent contributor “Summer camp has become a rite of passage for my children as they discover who they are and build the skill of being open to new experiences.” Because the wide variety of summer camp options can feel overwhelming, local mom of five Erika Cerda encourages parents to have a 5-step plan to take advantage of those skill-building new adventures. 1. Get curious with your kids to discover their passions and interests. 2. Determine your budget. 3. Set a realistic summer schedule. 4. Ask for transportation help from friends or family. 5. Keep notes from year to year. Get more details from Cerda on summer camp planning made easy. 

Erika Cerda is a mom of five and the associate vice president of human resources at the University of Central Oklahoma.

62 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2024

Plant. Grow. Enjoy! It’s time to start your spring garden!

Easy seeds to sow this month: Cabbage Carrots Cauliflower Green Peas Lettuce Onions Spinach Swiss Chard Find fresh tips for budding gardeners and healthy recipes at

S U N D AY, M A R C H 2 4 - S U N D AY, M A R C H 3 1

W H Y I S E A S T E R I M P O R TA N T ? W H O I S J E S U S C H R I S T ? Explore the powerful story of Jesus’ death and resurrection at Holy Week and Easter services at Crossings. On MAUNDY THURSDAY, learn about the Last Supper with Jesus and his disciples. Walk through Jesus’ last hours taking in the scents, sights, and sounds at the interactive GOOD FRIDAY EXPERIENCE. Then participate in the celebration of his triumphant resurrection at Crossings EASTER SERVICES!

COME CELEBRATE THE FREEDOM & HOPE WE HAVE THROUGH JESUS CHRIST THIS EASTER!

SEE SERVICE TIMES AT ALL CROSSINGS LOCATIONS ONLINE AT

C R O S SI N G S .C H U R C H / EA ST E R CROSSINGS EDMOND SUNDAY SCHEDULE // 9:30 & 11AM 1500 W COVELL RD, EDMOND, OK 73003 // 405.242.5460 //

@CROSSINGSEDMOND

CROSSINGS OKC SUNDAY SCHEDULE // 8:30, 9:30 & 11AM 14600 N PORTLAND AVE, OKC, OK 73134 // 405.755.2227 //

@CROSSINGSOKC

CROSSINGS.CHURCH