MetroFamily Magazine May 2018

MAY 2018

100 Days of Summer Fun

Ideas from Memorial to Labor Day (& coupons!)

2018 Awesome Moms Meet the winner & finalists of our annual contest

Fun for All Playgrounds for every age & ability

DISCOVER MORE! Look for this icon inside!

193

OKC Events

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Features 10 100 Days of Summer Fun Ideas to make the most of long summer days (plus coupons to local attractions!)

14 Mother Knows Best Tips from our archive of mom features 35 Ideas for Mother’s Day Fun Find ways to make mom’s day special 36 2018 Awesome Moms Contest Our winner and two finalists revealed 46 Family Favorites Best local businesses as determined by our readers

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In Every Issue 6 Ages & Stages Entertainment ideas for those hard-to-please ages

Family Favorites

8 New & Noteworthy Playgrounds for all abilities 16 Calendar of events 42 Exploring Outside Oklahoma Plan a kid-friendly trip to stunning Wisconsin

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Hilton Anatole Summer Getaway Contest: Dreaming of a summer getaway? Enter to win our Hilton Anatole contest! You could win a weekend stay at the Dallas resort valued at more than $1500, complete with a $200 hotel dining/parking credit. Enter from May 14 through June 18 at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

and were able to narrow it down to a final winner and two finalists featured on page 36. Many thanks to the generous sponsors who helped us recognize these incredible local women with fantastic prizes:

Web Exclusives News from our Sponsors: Oklahoma education is a hot topic lately.

Opportunity Scholarship Fund is a local scholarship granting organization that provides financial support to lower-income Oklahoma K-12 students to attend accredited private schools in the state. We talked to local parents and experts at OSF to help our readers discover their education options. Learn more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/osf

4 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Thanks to our Awesome Moms Sponsors! We received dozens of nominations in our annual contest

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Publisher

Sarah Taylor

Managing Editor Hannah Schmitt

Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo

Contributing Writers

Erin Page, Kimberly Burk & Kyle Brownlee

Contributing Photographers Emily Hart and Kimera Basore

Art Director Stacy Noakes

Marketing Director Callie Collins

Sales

Athena Delce, Dana Price

Project Manager Jessica Misun

Office/Distribution Kathy Alberty

SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE. FIND OUR 100 DAYS OF SUMMER FUN ON PAGE 10

After 20 years of printing this magazine, we have had the opportunity to ask thousands of local parents what they need to help their families thrive. One thing we know for sure is that parents like to hear from their peers about their most recommended local businesses and services.

That’s why we put together our annual Family Favorites awards. Real, local parents nominate and vote for the best pediatricians, realtors, chiropractors, after-school activities and more and we report their picks. Find all the results starting on page 46.

Another thing to love about this issue is our 100 Days of Summer. We’ve compiled ideas to help keep your kids busy every day between Memorial and Labor Day (and even provided exclusive coupons to some local attractions)!

Whether you’re staying inside and need a fun at-home activity or you want to get out of the house for a family adventure, the list is sure to satisfy. Find all 100 ideas starting on page 10.

Best of all, some of our generous advertisers are offering special coupons and discounts to our readers to help you save some money on family fun this summer. Find those exclusive deals on page 12.

Our Family Favorites and 100 Days of Summer are two of the many projects we put together every year for our readers. Find more special guides and resources (including our popular Summer Camps & Activities guide) at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories.

Hannah Schmitt Editor

Contact us

318 NW 13th St, Ste 101 OKC OK 73103 Phone: 405-601-2081 Fax: 405-445-7509 sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2018 by Inprint Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. 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.

Circulation audited by

Proud member of

This Month’s Cover

Nahla C. 2018 Cover Kids Search winner Nahla loves soccer, dancing and acting. She lives in Oklahoma with her parents Justina and Jazmya C. Learn more about all our 2018 Cover Kids at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/2018-Cover-Kids-Winners.

Also a member of Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Moore Chamber of Commerce

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

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GET EVENT INFO & SAVE TO CALENDAR Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Fun for Toddlers & Teens:

Top events for OKC’s youngest and oldest fun-seekers

&

FULL MOON BIKE RIDE & RUN AT MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS. PHOTO PROVIDED.

ages stages

BY LINDSAY CUOMO

We love sending families with kids of all ages out to find fun in OKC, but the majority of local events focus on the middle ages.

We’ve put together this list of top events for toddlers and teens to help keep these harderto-please ages happy.

Find more at www. metrofamilymagazine. com/ages-stages.

Babies & Toddlers Teens & Tweens May 5

Festival of the Child in Yukon from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

FREE Super SONIC Make + Take at Oklahoma Contemporary’s Showroom from 1 – 4 p.m.

May 12

RailFest at Moore’s Central Park from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Lucas Ross’ Banjo Farm LIVE at the American Banjo Museum from 2 – 3 p.m.

Mother’s Day Tea Party at the MAC at Mitch Park in Edmond from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

May 20

Wild Kratts LIVE at Civic Center Music Hall at 2 p.m.

June 2

Edmond Electric Touch-a-Truck at UCO from 9 a.m. - noon

May 6

FREE Annual Edmond Family Bike Ride at Edmond Park at Lake Arcadia at 2 p.m.

May 12

Rugged Maniac 5k Obstacle Race at the Lost Lakes Entertainment Complex from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

FREE OKC LitFest at the Downtown Library from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

May 18

FREE Justice League Movie in the Park at Moore’s Central Park from 7 – 10 p.m.

May 19

FREE Geek Con! at the Downtown Library from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

May 26 – 28

Paseo Arts Festival in the Paseo Arts District

May 29

Full Moon Bike Ride at Myriad Gardens from 8 – 9:30 p.m.

Find more events and activities for all ages on our calendar on page 16.

6 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

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New & Noteworthy Playgrounds for All

BY HANNAH SCHMITT PHOTOS BY BRITTANY’S PLAY ADVENTURE

What started as a simple idea to see kids with disabilities playing alongside typically-developing kids came to fruition last summer in Mustang with Brittany’s Play Adventure (1201 N. Mustang Rd., Mustang). Lynly Grider was inspired by her sister-in-law Brittany Grider to present the idea for the playground to city officials.

Brittany, she explained, is her 34-year-old sister-in-law who has special needs. She’s non-verbal, but Lynly said she giggles constantly every time she visits the playground.

The entire playground is accessible by wheelchair, but Lynly is thrilled to report there are 200-300 visitors a week of all ages and abilities.

“There really is something for everyone,” Lynly said. “It was very overwhelming at the opening to see all abilities playing there. I had parents (of special needs kids) come up to me telling me their 40-year-old kids had never been able to play on a playground before.”

Thankfully, more and more metro parks are making upgrades and adjustments to make them more inclusive to kids with disabilities.

Here are some other great places for kids of all abilities to play:

Central Park in Moore 700 S. Broadway

Kids of all ages and abilities flock to this train-themed playground with slides, tunnels and tons of features. Extra-wide ramps and platforms and sensory-stimulating activities encourage inclusive play for all kids.

Freedom Trail Playground in Yukon 2101 S. Holly Ave., Yukon

This Yukon play place was built with kids of all abilities in mind.

Highlights include swings, bridges, ladders, an archaeological sand dig and even musical features. The nearby duck pond and butterfly garden are a hit with kids, too.

Piedmont Community Park 130 Gooder Simpson Blvd., Piedmont

This exciting new park project was put together by more than 1,800 volunteer laborers last summer and finally opened to the public at the end of April. The entire community came together to build the park, complete with many ADA features including an ADA zip line.

Myriad Gardens Children’s Gardens 301 W. Reno

After being closed a few weeks at the end of March and beginning of April, the Myriad Botanical Gardens Children’s Garden revealed some upgrades to playground equipment designed specifically for children with special needs. Upgrades make it possible for children of all abilities to enjoy a merry-go-round, seesaw and swing.

8 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Does Your Child

Have Autism?

Saving for College

learn about

Four tips from a local dad & financial expert

APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS

BY KYLE BROWNLEE

As a wealth advisor, I work with dozens of clients every year to create plans that will one day fund their children’s education. As a father to four boys myself, I know the weight the responsibility of paying for college carries. There are a lot of ways to fund your children’s education, but you can’t borrow money to retire. So, start discussions with what you need to live comfortably during retirement, and work backward to appropriate savings for college from there.

It is a reality, however, that paying for college is getting more and more difficult.

Today, cost of living increases at a rate of roughly three percent while the average college tuition increases at a much higher rate–approximately eight and a half percent. Here are my four top tips for being financially prepared to send kids to college: 1. Start when your kids are born. Even if you can afford only $50 per month, the difference in what you accumulate starting from day one compared to four or five years later is substantial. Many savings plans require only a $250 minimum to open, and once you set up that $50 automatic deposit, you’ll hardly miss it.

2. Do your homework – figuratively (and literally for any of you kids reading!).

It’s important to set a goal early. Most universities offer estimator tools that calculate average in-state and out-of-state costs adjusted for inflation.

Once you’ve established a target tuition, research all available ways to fund it.

Scholarships have a significant impact on the final cost of education, and there is tremendous support available if you take the initiative to prepare for and find them.

For my 16-year-old son, Wren, we’ve had the pleasure of working with Ann-Clore Duncan at Duncan College Consulting to identify the classes, test-taking preparations and extracurricular activities that give him the greatest chance for success. With many scholarships tied to test scores, she

wisely advises investing the couple hundred dollars now in tutoring and prep classes to secure thousands of dollars annually in scholarships. When one point can make the difference, there is no better return on investment.

3. Create and communicate a plan. Your children need to understand what schools you can and can’t afford, whether they will be required to contribute and whether student loans will be their responsibility to pay back. As Ann-Clore encouraged us, “If ever there was a time to talk openly with your children about finances, this is it.”

You can’t jeopardize your financial future because your student chooses a pricey school. That doesn’t mean they have to pass up the opportunity of an Ivy League, for example, but it does mean the whole family must participate to do that responsibly. Don’t wait to have these conversations when your kids are seniors; the discussion should start when they enter high school.

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4. Involve the kids. I believe children should help financially with college by working when they are able. It’s an important part of teaching successful habits and holding them accountable for their own excellence. There is never a time in their life when they will have more free time and fewer responsibilities than college. For my own sons, I will require them to work a minimum of 10 hours per week while in school. Paired with 15 hours of classes and 10 hours of studying, that’s still fewer than 40 hours per week. Personally, I did much better in school when I had a job, and I’d hate for my sons to miss the valuable lessons my college jobs taught me.

As we’ve prepared for college with our oldest son, I’ve become even more passionate about modeling, teaching and requiring the successful habits that produce successful kids. Being financially prepared for college is about more than opening a savings account and applying for federal student aid. It’s about equipping your student with the tools they need to be financially independent, so they can reach their potential and leave a meaningful legacy.

Kyle is the father of four boys: Wren, Jace, Liam and Alex. He’s also the CEO of Wymer Brownlee Wealth Strategies in Edmond.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

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Join us for our Annual Mom’s Mingle & Family Fun Day! stay updated facebook.com/therapyandbeyond

Summer fun!

Memorial Day is just around the corner, marking the unofficial start of summer: the glorious season of late nights, long days, vacations, sweat and those dreaded moments of the kids getting stir-crazy. We’ve put together 100 ideas to keep your kids busy between Memorial Day and Labor Day so you hopefully won’t have to hear “I’m bored” quite as many times.

55Pick summer produce at a local farm 55Beat the heat at an indoor play place 55Check out a new audiobook from your local library 55Dust off the bikes and enjoy a family ride 55Use a book to press summer flowers from your garden 55Spend a day on the water at RIVERSPORT Adventures 55Catch a show at Winchester Drive-In 55Host a family talent show 55Take in some tunes at an outdoor concert 55Pitch a tent in the backyard for an at-home campout

55Learn something new at Edmond’s 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse 55Try for a strike at Dust Bowl Lanes* 55Grab the sidewalk chalk and make a miniature version of Oklahoma City in your driveway 55Challenge the kids to jump off a high dive 55Enjoy dinner al fresco at a local restaurant patio 55Go canoeing on Lake Overholser 55Visit Pops Arcadia and take a photo in front of the giant LED pop bottle 55Get soaked under the tipping bucket at Frontier City’s Wild West Water Works 55Volunteer together to help a local cause 55Take a ride on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel

55Walk around Lake Hefner and stop for a selfie in front of the Lighthouse

55Get the wiggles out indoors at Okie Kids Playgound

55Challenge each other at a local board game cafe

55Shelter from the sun at an indoor pool

55Build a blanket fort

55Explore the 90+ miles of trails in OKC Parks*

55Use shaving cream to “paint” on the windows

55Find a new Netflix show to watch together

55Pick up a Discovery Pack for hands-on fun at Oklahoma City Museum of Art

55Find your favorite food truck for an outdoor lunch

55Learn to swim at Goldfish Swim School*

55Try a new piece of produce from a local farmers market

55Make your own banana split bar 55Test your kicking skills at SoccerCity 55Break out the glow sticks for a twilight family walk 55Walk the Plaza District and stop for a treat at Sasquatch Shaved Ice 55Enjoy story time at an area coffee shop or bookstore

10 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

55Play a round of mini-golf 55Bounce off the walls at Jump!Zone 55Attend a Vacation Bible School 55Go geocaching 55Take some lawn chairs outside of town for an evening of stargazing

55Explore new terrain at an Oklahoma state park 55Ride the lazy river around the new Westwood Family Aquatic Center in Norman 55Put on your favorite song and have a dance party 55Challenge your kids to draw a self-portrait

55Have a popsicle party in the driveway with your neighbors 55Wake up early to watch the sunrise 55Host a cookout 55Plant pumpkins in the backyard to harvest in the fall

55Send an Oklahoma City postcard to an out-oftown friend or family member

55Go fishing in a local pond or lake

55Visit a sandy beach at an Oklahoma lake 55Build an outdoor obstacle course

55Let your kids find a new hero at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame*

55Bake a special summer treat for a neighbor or friend

55Spot a new-to-you plant species at Martin Park Nature Center

55Start a summer journal and jot down highlights of the season

55Enjoy free admission at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art

55Go on a family picnic

55Meet a furry friend at the Oklahoma City Zoo

55Challenge the kids to a water gun fight

55Go out for donuts

55Jump around at a trampoline park

55Start a windowsill or backyard garden

55Scale the climbing wall at Pelican Bay Aquatic Center

55Take a road trip to the Water-Zoo Indoor Water Park in Clinton

55Set up a play date at a nearby park

55Challenge your kids to read a new library book every week

55Weather the “thunderstorm” at Myriad Gardens’ Thunder Fountain 55Go on a Scavenger Hunt at SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology (find it at the front desk)* 55Have breakfast in bed

55Roll down a grassy hill

55Take a whirl around the rink at Skate Galaxy OKC* 55Have a pillow fight 55Play in the sand at Bricktown Beach

55Enroll in a summer camp

55Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum May 26 & 27*

55Challenge a friend to a race

55Chisholm Trail Crawfish Festival in Yukon June 7

55Catch an outdoor concert

55deadCENTER Film Festival in various OKC locations June 7-10

55Have a watermelon seed-spitting contest 55Enjoy free admission to the 45th Infantry Museum 55Take a twilight cruise on the Oklahoma River 55Drop a line at a local lake 55Meet some farm animals at a tour of the Braum’s Family Farm in Tuttle 55Go to an OKC Dodgers game 55Have a water balloon battle 55Download a kid-friendly podcast to listen to together 55Set up a lemonade stand for a good cause 55Run a 5K together 55Create a pottery masterpiece at Unpluggits Paint & Play*

55Red Earth Festival at Cox Convention Center June 8-10 55Children’s Garden Festival at Myriad Gardens June 8-17 55Stars & Stripes River Festival at RIVERSPORT Adventures June 23 55Geekapalooza at Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics on June 23 55Rush Springs Watermelon Festival in Rush Springs Aug. 11 55Labor Day Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center Sept. 1 & 2 NOTE:* indicates sponsored activities from our advertisers. Find coupons for many of these on the next page!

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

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Exclusive deals for summer fun!

Unpluggits Paint & Play Half off one paint & take craft with purchase of admission.

Expires Aug. 31, 2018. Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology $2 off admission for each person in your party. Buy tickets online using code “100days” or use coupon at museum. Expires Dec. 31, 2018. One time use only. Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

Skate Galaxy

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Buy One Get One half off individual admission for weekday summer skate and family night skate times only. Expires June 30, 2018. Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

One free child admission with paid adult. Expires Aug. 31, 2018. Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge Monday night family glow bowl from 4-10pm. All ages welcome until 10pm. Lanes are $10 per hour; shoes are $3.50 a pair for adults and $1 for kids 12 and under. Expires Aug. 31, 2018. Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

Mention “100 Days of Summer” to receive Free Drop In Lesson with purchase of Summer Jump Start Clinic. PLUS, bring this coupon to your first lesson and you will be entered in a drawing to win One Month of Swim Lessons. Winner will be notified August 6, 2018. Call 405-696-7500 or stop by our front desk to sign up for your Summer Jump Start Clinic today! Expires Aug. 3, 2018.

Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

12 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Oklahoma Hall of Fame Free admission up to 5 people in a party. Expires Dec. 31, 2018. Not to be combined with other offers. No cash value.

Find these and other Kids Pass Deals all summer long at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ kids-pass-deals

Explore your imagination and creativity this summer!

LYRIC ACADEMY SUMMER PRODUCTIONS All tickets just $10! All ages welcome!

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Mom Wisdom

BY HANNAH SCHMITT

In almost every issue the past 20 years, we’ve had the opportunity to highlight at least one local mom.

And as much as it feels like raising kids is always changing, it’s encouraging to see advice from moms featured years ago within our pages still rings true today. Here are some of our favorite tidbits from interviews with local moms over the past few years.

“Say ‘I love you’ as often as you can...it will never be too much.

Make time, even when it feels like you have so little of it.”

-KJ Kindler, University of Oklahoma gymnastics coach and mother of two featured in our July 2014 issue.

“Never take one moment for granted, take lots of pictures and videos, never pass up an opportunity to snuggle and tell your kids you love them.”

-Jamie Watters, a mom who lost a son to childhood cancer highlighted in our May 2013 issue

“Enjoy every little moment, every silly face or sound, every milestone big or small. They grow so fast!”

-Yelisabel Villarreal Scott, an immigrant and mother featured in our Sept. 2014 issue

“I used to be really strict and I still am but a great lesson is just to remember that sometimes you have to forget the way you thought you should do it and meet a kid’s specific need.”

-Ashlee Terry, mom of nine and runner-up in our 2017 Awesome Mom

14 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

“Always ask yourself, ‘Is this going to benefit my children?’ If your answer is yes, and it is not benefiting for selfish reasons, then you are doing the best you can do as a mom.”

-Dolores Collins, single mom of children with intellectual disabilities featured in our July 2011 issue

NOW OPEN

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

“Spend some time being ‘in the moment’ with your kids as often as possible. Enjoy the fun times that come with each age and endure the rough stages, knowing they won’t last forever.”

-Tamara Walker, an amputee and mom of two highlighted in our July 2012 issue

“I think it’s really important to keep your own personal identity and have some time for yourself. It can be difficult when our babies are so dependent on us, but as they grow, it’s important to remember the other relationships in our lives. It really is true that a happy mom is a better mom.”

-Robin Dziedzic, mom of two and Briarwood Elementary teacher during the May 2013 tornado in Moore highlighted in out Aug. 2013 issue

“I constantly communicate that Mommy and Daddy and God expect them to watch out for and take care of each other. I really try to build them up and remind them what God has called them to do. I think communicating to all four of them has helped build that closeness and they take a lot of pride in the fact we’re a family.”

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-Candice McCoy, mom of four featured in our Nov. 2017 issue

“I have found that if I schedule everything in my life, then I’m more likely to have balance. We now have family game night. That way, we are guaranteed one night a week to just enjoy each other.”

405-261-1002 Steven M. Sullivan, DDS, FACD, FACS Kevin S. Smith, DDS, FACS Paul S. Tiwana, DDS, MD, MS, FACS

-Carrie Looper, a couponing mom of four highlighted in our April 2012 issue

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

2745 S. I-35 SERVICE ROAD MOORE, OK

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WISDOMTOOTHCENTERS.COM

May

Sunday

Monday

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Free Family Day at Oklahoma City Museum of Art from noon – 5 p.m.

Free First Mondays for Kids at Sam Noble Museum from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Happy Mother’s Day! Flip to page 35 to see which local attractions are offering free admission to moms today!

Free Storytime at Mustang Public Library from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

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Oklahoma City Whitewater Festival at RIVERSPORT Adventures begins at 10 a.m.

Free Art Moves at various locations in downtown OKC at noon

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Free Memorial Day Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center from noon – 5 p.m.

Free Memorial Day Celebration at the 45th Infantry Division Museum at 10 a.m.

12 Lucas Ross’ Banjo Farm LIVE 20 Oklahoma City Whitewater Festival 26 Chuck Wagon Festival 29 Full Moon Bike Ride & Run

GET DETAILS ON ALL MAY EVENTS Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

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26

20

29

perfect for preschoolers

16 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

great for teens

worth the drive

fitness

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

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Free Wheeler Criterium in the Wheeler District from 5 – 8:30 p.m.

Free Reading Wednesdays Story Time at Myriad Gardens from 10 – 11 a.m.

Free “You Can Homeschool” Workshop at the Oklahoma Home School Convention at Cox Convention Center at 6:30 p.m.

Free Cinco de Mayo en Calle Dos Cinco Celebration from 6 – 9 p.m.

Free Super SONIC Make + Take at Oklahoma Contemporary’s Showroom from 1 – 4 p.m.

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Free Muffins with Mom Story Time at the Moore Library from 10 – 11 a.m.

Free Mother Goose Storytime at the Mustang Public Library at 10 a.m.

Free Little Hands Art Camp at the Belle Isle Library from 10-11 a.m.

Free Movie Night @ the Park presents Cars 3 at the MAC Amphitheatre at Mitch Park at dark.

Lucas Ross’ Banjo Farm LIVE at the American Banjo Museum from 2 – 3 p.m.

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Tiny Tuesday at Oklahoma City Museum of Art from 10 a.m. – noon

Free Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion Tours (final day!) from noon – 3 p.m.

Free Family Night Out at the Mustang Library from 5 – 7 p.m.

May Daze Festival in Blanchard from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Free BikeMoore Community Ride at Buck Thomas Park from 9: a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

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Tuesday Night Classics presents Casablanca at Harkins Theatre at 7 p.m.

Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark

Free Ping Pong Mania at The Station at Central Park from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Family Prairie Exploration at Myriad Botanical Gardens at 2 p.m.

Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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Full Moon Bike Ride at Myriad Gardens from 8 – 9:30 p.m.

Harkins Bricktown Summer Movie Series presents Smurfs: The Lost Village at 9:45 a.m.

Free Summer Thursdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame begins at 10:30 a.m.

OKC Family Fun sponsored by

Neighborhood crestoneridge.com

Find these events and hundreds more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

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CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

Through May 4

Pinocchio at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre Burg Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder Ave) features an inventive version with all the familiar characters and nonstop adventure. Recommended for ages 5 & up. Adults, $10; kids (2-12), $8. See website for show times. 606-7003, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

Through May 5

Disney’s Little Mermaid at Pollard Theatre (120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie) features a tale about an adventurous young mermaid with a beautiful voice longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above. $24-$30. See website for a schedule of performances.

282-2800, www.thepollard.org

May 3-5

Oklahoma Home School Convention at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens). The convention is designed to equip, inform and encourage both new and experienced homeschoolers in their homeschooling journey. This year’s

keynote speaker is Todd Wilson, The Familyman. $40 & up. See website for schedule. 810-0386, www.ochec.com

May 4 • Friday

Space Day Celebration at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features hands-on activities and live demonstrations, in addition to the permanent exhibits including Destination Space with real NASA artifacts, interactive exhibits and the Mercury Capsule Simulator. Free with admission. 9am-2pm.

602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

Oklahoma State University Softball vs University of Oklahoma at Cowgirl Stadium (N Duck St, Stillwater).

Prices vary. 6:30pm. 877-ALL4-OSU, www.okstate.com FREE Dancing in the Gardens at Myriad Gardens Seasonal Plaza (301 W Reno Ave) features an evening of salsa dancing and a live DJ. All ages welcome. 7-10pm.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

May the 4th Be With You Animal Enrichment at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St). Celebrate the cute creatures that bind our galaxy together with a special Star Wars– themed enrichment event. Costumes encouraged. Lightsabers and other handheld costume props are discouraged inside the Zoo. Free with admission. 1011:30am. 424-3344, www.okczoo.org FREE Teen Star Wars Party at the Northwest Library (5600 NW 122nd St) features themed crafts including makingyour-own light saber, Star Wars trivia, themed snacks and more. Preregister.

Best suited for ages 12 & up. 4-5pm.

606-3580, www.metrolibrary.org FREE May the Fourth Be With You Activities at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond). Kids can show off their Jedi skills and learn a little about electric circuitry by making your own lightup light saber greeting card. Preregister.

Best suited for ages 10 & up. 4:30-5:30pm.

341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org

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18 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

FREE Cinco de Mayo en Calle Dos Cinco Celebration in the Historic Capitol Hill District (Harvey Ave between 24th & 25th Streets) features a family friendly street festival with live entertainment

by Conjunto SinLey, food trucks, a salsa tasting contest, a traditional Mexican dress show and more. 6-9pm. 6320133, www.historiccapitolhill.com FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District (NW 30th & 27th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features local artists, special themed exhibits, refreshments, live music and food trucks.

6-10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.org FREE Relay For Life of Cleveland County at Moore’s Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a family-friendly walk, food trucks and live music by the Blackwater Bridge Band. Free to attend, fundraising encouraged. 6-11pm. 800-227-2345, www.relayforlife.org/mooreok

Haptic: Creating Art by Touch at Dunlap and Coding (609 W Sheridan Ave) showcases the painting techniques of John Bramblitt. Collaborative artwork between established local artists and visually impaired Creative Visions students will be on display and available for purchase during this evening event.

Benefits NewView Oklahoma. $40 & up. 602-0780, nvoklahoma.org

May 4 & 5

Fried Onion Burger Day in Downtown El Reno (119 S Rock Island Ave, El Reno) features the cooking of the world’s largest fried onion hamburger and features carnival rides, games, live entertainment and more. Friday, $10; Saturday entry, free. Friday, 5:30-10pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. www.elrenoburgerday.com Babies at the Museum at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features complimentary coffee, social time, a 30-minute gallery tour and playtime with age-appropriate activities in a classroom.

Members, $5; non-members, $12. Friday

& Saturday, 9:30-11:30am. Also held: May 25-27. 278-8213, www.okcmoa.com Old Chicken Farm Vintage Barn Sale (12699 E Britton Rd, Jones) features vintage furniture, decor, handmade treasures, repurposed possessions and more. Adults, $5, kids (13 & under), free.

Friday, 10am-5pm & Saturday, 9am-4pm.

740-1414, www.theoldchickenfarm.com The Music of ABBA at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a performance by ARRIVAL, an ABBA show band from Sweden. $19-$73. 8pm.

297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com

May 4-6

FREE Arts Festival in downtown Edmond (30 W 1st St, Edmond) features artist booths filled with paintings, sculpture, jewelry, pottery and more as well as food vendors, live music and children’s activities including inflatables and a free children’s art tent. Friday & Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm.

249-9391, downtownedmondok.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

19

FACT:

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

It takes four weeks to go from egg, larva, pupa to adult.

University of Oklahoma Baseball vs Kansas State University at L. Dale Mitchell Baseball Park (401 Imhoff Rd, Norman) Prices vary. Friday, 6:30pm; Saturday, 2pm; Sunday, 1pm.

325-2424, www.soonersports.com

May 4-7

Oklahoma City Dodgers vs Colorado Springs Sky Sox at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 Mickey Mantle Dr). $8 & up. Friday & Saturday, 7:05pm; Sunday, 2:05pm; Monday, 11:05am.

Also held: 5/8-11 vs Memphis, 5/1720 vs Nashville, 5/30-6/3 vs Omaha.

218-1000, www.okcdodgers.com

May 5 • Saturday

FREE Comic Book Day at participating libraries and retailers (various locations).

Retailers across the country offer a free comic book to all customers to introduce new readers to the comic book medium. www.freecomicbookday.com

Autism Oklahoma Piecewalk & 5K at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle) features a 5K, Piece walk and a resource fair. $30 & up, Piece Walk, free. 7:30-10:30am. www.piecewalk.org

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Infants – Private Kindergarten & After School

Primrose School of Edmond 15000 N. Western Ave. Edmond, OK 73013 405.285.6787 PrimroseEdmond.com Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2017 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.

Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park (2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon) features storytellers, kayaking, moon bounces, crafts, pony rides and more. All activities are geared for children 12 and under. $5 in advance, $7 day of. 10am-4pm.

354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov Farmers Market at Indigo Acres Farm (4050 W Evergreen Dr, Edmond) features come-&-go farm tours, farm animals, fresh produce, baked goods and other items to sample and purchase.

Free to attend. 9am-1pm. 834-8977, www.facebook.com/IndigoAcres/ OKC Garden Fest at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features vendors with herbs, perennials, roses, produce, pottery, jewelry, wineries, food products and food trucks. There will also be activities for kids. Free to attend. 9am-4pm. 255-1707, www.facebook.com/okcgardenfest/ FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation. 10-11am. Also held: May 19. 528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com

20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

FREE Saturday for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St). Kids can explore Dutch oven cooking with kidfriendly treats. Attendees can also craft a cowboy apron to take home. Best suited for ages 4-12. Free for children and accompanying adults. Activities available while supplies last. 10am-noon. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org FREE Robotics Class at Sylvan of Edmond (3209 S Broadway Ave, Edmond) features fun, hands-on projects to get your child’s creative juices flowing and learn about science and engineering concepts. Call to preregister. 1-2pm.

562-5202, www.sylvanlearning.com Oklahoma City Energy FC vs Swope Park Rangers at Taft Stadium (2501 N May Ave). $11 & up. 7pm. Also held: 5/19 vs Colorado Springs, 6/2 vs Reno. 235-5425, www.energyfc.com FREE Super SONIC Make + Take at The Showroom (NW 11th & Broadway Ave) features individual, collaborative and wearable art projects as well as chalk art, snow cones, face painters and a DJ. All activities are free, all ages are welcome. 1-4pm. 951-0000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org FREE Red Brick Nights Street Festival in Downtown Guthrie (2nd & Harrison Ave, Guthrie) features pop-up shops, food trucks and live music. 5pm. 282-1947, www. guthriechamber.com/red-brick-nights/ May Fair 5K at Andrews Park (201 W Daws, Norman) features a familyfriendly 5K race benefiting the Assistance League of Norman. $30. 8:30am. www.assistanceleague.org/norman Flower Bookmarks for Mother’s Day at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl). Create colorful pressed flower bookmarks for Mother’s Day. Free with admission. 10am-2pm. 524-2905 Epilepsy Walk at Hafer Park (1034 S Bryant Ave, Edmond) features a walk, live DJ, face painting, food trucks, brain games and more. Benefits Epilepsy Foundation Oklahoma. Registration, free; fundraising encouraged. 10am. 4630673, www.facebook.com/OkEpilepsy/

Cowboys of Color Rodeo at Jim Norick Arena (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features culturally diverse cowboys and cowgirls battling it out in traditional rodeo events including bullriding, calf roping, steer wrestling, bronc busting and barrel racing. There will also be live music, a DJ battle and a kids play area. $12-$23. 7pm. 948-6884, www.cowboysofcolorrodeo.com Warrior Weekend 5K Fun Run, Walk and Roll at Wildhorse Park (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features a familfriendly walk benefiting Warriors for Freedom. Adults, $25 for adults; kids (16 & under), $15. 5:45-8pm. 990-5590, www.mustangparksfoundation.com FREE Yoga in the Park at Earlywine Park (3101 SW 119th St) features an outdoor session of yoga open to the community. All ages welcome. 9am. www.facebook.com/ groups/yogaintheparkmoore University of Oklahoma Softball vs Oklahoma State University at Marita Hynes Field (2500 S Jenkins Ave, Norman). Prices vary. 7:30pm.

325-2424, www.soonersports.com FREE Grand Opening and Open House at Cottonwood Creek Ranch (907 N Chisholm Rd) features tours of the facilities, a meet-&-greet with trainers and instructors, photo opportunity with a champion horse and $3 pony rides. Proceeds from the rides will be donated to charity. 2-4pm. 888-7379, www.cottonwoodcreekranch.net

May 5 & 6

FREE May Fair Arts Festival at Andrews Park (201 W Daws, Norman) features a two-day, outdoor art show featuring artists and quality craftsmen, top area performers, artist demonstrations, children’s art activities, a student art show, food and more. The activities in the Children’s Art Tent are free. Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 321-9400, www.assistanceleague.org/norman/

May 6 • Sunday

FREE Family Day at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a host of hands-on art activities and experiences including kid-friendly performances throughout the galleries and in the Samuel Roberts Noble Theater.

Noon-5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

21

FRIDAY • MAY 11 MAC Amphitheater Starts at Dusk

Admission is free, concessions are $1 each.

EdmondParks.com | 405.359.4630

MOANA | JUNE 8 COCO | JULY 13 PADDINGTON 2 | AUG. 10 Follow us on

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

Parkinson’s Rally Walk & 5K at Wheeler Park (1120 S Western Ave) features a family-friendly walk benefiting the Parkinson Foundation of Oklahoma.

Fundraising & donations requested. 2pm.

810-0695, www.parkinsonoklahoma.com

Weekly sessions begin June 18 Register today!

Little Sapling Series at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features songs, games and interactive fun to learn about gardens.

Preregister. For ages 2-5. 10-11am.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese (2201 Interstate Dr, Norman) features less crowds, dimmed lighting, the music and show turned down or off and limited appearances from Chuck E. Prices vary. 9-11am. 3668200, www.chuckecheese.com

FREE Muffins with Mom Story Time at the Moore Library (225 S Howard, Moore) features a special story time with books, music, craft and muffins.

If mom is not available, bring another person you adore. 10-11am. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

Chaparral Family Sundays at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features family fun activities including mascot meet & greets, player autograph sessions, inflatables, face painting and more. Kids also get to run the bases following the game.

Also held: May 20. $8 & up. 1:30pm.

218-1000, www.okcdodgers.com

FREE Family Game Night at the Northwest Library (5600 NW 122nd St) features large assortment of games for families to enjoy together. All ages welcome. 4:30-6:30pm. 6063580, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Cinco de Mayo Festival at Wiley Post Park (2021 S Robinson Ave) features an outdoor festival for the whole family with a parade of horses, folkloric dancing, live entertainment, kids’ activities, food and more. 1-10pm.

360-1200, www.facebook.com/ OklahomaLatinoCulturalCenter/ FREE Annual Edmond Family Bike Ride at Edmond Park at Arcadia Lake (7100 E Second St, Edmond) features a safety talk and family bike ride in conjunction with Arcadia Lake Bike Day. 2pm. www.edmondok.com The Norman Singers Spring Concert at First Baptist Church (11 W Comanche St, Norman) features both classical and contemporary works with a live orchestral accompaniment. All ages welcome. Adults, $5; kids, $3. 3pm.

474-9617, www.normansingers.org

May 7 • Monday

1700 Northeast 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Mon – Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sun, Noon – 5:00 p.m.

(405) 478-2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org/ summercamp

May 8 • Tuesday

FREE First Mondays for Kids at Sam Noble Museum (2401 S Chautauqua, Norman) features complimentary admission for kids 17 years old and under.

General admission applies to guests 18 and older. Adults (18-64), $8; seniors (65+), $6; Kids (17 & under), free. 10am-5pm.

325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

22 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

FREE Art in the Park at Hafer Park (1034 S Bryant Ave, Edmond) features art projects inspired by nature and popular children’s books.

Preregister. For ages 2 -12. 10-11am.

359-4630, www.edmondparks.com

May 10 • Thursday

FREE Little Hands Art Camp at Belle Isle Library (5501 N Villa Ave) features local artist Heather White as she reads stories and guides kids age 2-5 through an art project. Preregister. 10-11am.

843-9601, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Teen Read the Movie Book Club at the Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave) features pizza and a discussion about film and literature.

May’s theme is Harry Potter and Star Wars. Best suited for ages 12-18. 4-6pm.

732-4828, www.metrolibrary.org Hopeful Horizons at the Chesapeake Central Boathouse (732 Riversport Dr) features an evening reception with gourmet coffees, desserts, a guest speaker, live music and auctions benefiting Parents Helping Parents. $25. 7-9pm. 562-0946, www.parentshelpingparents.info

May 10-12

Friends of the SOKC Library Book Bazaar at the Southwest OKC Library (2201 SW 134th St) features books for all ages available for purchase.

Benefits programs at the SOKC Public Library. Free to attend. Thursday,

Hands-on science fun!

Get your tickets now for

9am-8:30pm; Friday, 9am-7:30pm; Saturday, 9am-4:30pm. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

May 11 • Friday

FREE 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk in the Norman Arts District (downtown Norman) features a monthly celebration of the arts in Norman.

6-9pm. www.2ndfridaynorman.com FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more on the second Friday of the month.

6-10pm. www.plazadistrict.org/live/ FREE Movie Night @ the Park at the MAC Amphitheater at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features a screening of Cars 3. Admission is free and concessions are $1. Movies begin at dark. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com

May 11 & 13

Three Decembers by Jake Heggie at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features an opera by modern American composer Jake Heggie that follows an aging Broadway star. Presented by Painted Sky Opera. $35. Friday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com

Designed to spark your kid's interest in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) with hands-on fun in robotics, coding, geo-sciences PLUS...

• Stage entertainment • Food trucks • "Geek" costume contest

May 11 & 12

Big 12 Softball Championship at ASA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium Complex (2801 NE 50th St) features the pool play of the six top teams in the Big 12. $9-$25. See website for game times. 236-5000, www.okcallsports.org

May 12 • Saturday

FREE Hooked on Fishing Lessons at Edwards Park Lake (1515 N Bryant Ave). Young anglers learn fishing basics including knot-tying, casting, fish identification, angler ethics and fishing regulations. Classes are open to boys and girls 5 to 15 years old. All participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Preregister. 8-10:30am. www.okc.gov Mother’s Day Flower Arranging Class at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St). Make mom a beautiful bouquet using unique containers and a bounty of beautiful blooms from the gardens. Materials provided. All ages welcome. $20. 9:30-11am. 2971392, www.okc.gov/parksignup

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Saturday, June 23 Choose a session, either 9am-noon or 1-4pm Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM) 1141 N. Lincoln Blvd. (near NW 10th and Broadway) Just $12/family (up to 4 people; $6 per additional person) Get your tickets TODAY! Tickets are transferrable.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/geek Sponsored by

23

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

Girls on the Run 5K at Mickey Mantle Pavilion at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S. Mickey Mantle Dr). $15 & up. 7:30-11am. www.gotrcentralok.org Great Strides Walk at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a one-mile walk benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Fundraising encouraged. 10am-noon. 787-0056, www.facebook.com/CFFOklahomaCity/ Mother’s Day Tea Party at The MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond). Enjoy tea, treats and a picture frame craft. For ages 2 & up. Preregister. $15. 11am-12:30pm.

359-4630, www.edmondparks.com Opening Day at Andy Alligator’s Water Park (3300 Market Pl, Norman). $16.95-$19.95. 11am-6pm. 3217275, www.andyalligators.com FREE Movie in the Park at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features an outdoor screening of Cars 3, fun activities including a car show and food trucks. 6pm. 3763411, www.cityofmustang.org Rugged Maniac 5K Obstacle Race at Lost Lakes Entertainment Complex (3501 NE 10th St) features a 5K course with towers of shipping containers, a massive water slide, underground tunnels and new obstacles as well as a day-long festival with mechanical bulls, adult bounce houses, music and more. $29 & up. 9am-4pm. ruggedmaniac.com FREE V-Dubs on Automobile Alley (NW 8th Street between Robinson and Oklahoma Ave) features a car show, live music, art exhibit, pop-up park, VDub Love photo booth and Pente tournament.

9am-4pm. www.vwclubokc.org FREE Cruzin’ Clear Bay Parade and Car Show at Lake Thunderbird State Park (13101 Alameda Dr, Norman) features a parade of vintage cars, food trucks, photos with Raccoon Park Pal, face painting, live music, vendors and hourly door prizes.

9:30-5pm. 360-3572, www.travelok.com FREE Ruff Day in the Park Pet Festival at the Melrose Recreation Center (7800 Melrose Ln) features a variety of pet vendors offering food, animal care, pet

24 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

clothes, services and more, including games and activities for the children.

10am-noon. 789-6758, www.okc.gov FREE OKC LitFest at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features workshops, presentations, panels and a book fair with local publishers, authors and university writing programs. Writers of all ages, skill levels, mediums and genres are welcome. Preregister. 10am4pm. 231-8650, www.metrolibrary.org Indie Trunk Show at Oklahoma State Fair Park Pavilion Building (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features over 200 local artists, crafters, makers, and boutiques, all from Oklahoma. $6. 10am5pm. www.indietrunkshowokc.com FREE See You Saturdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features themed experiences and learning opportunities for families to enjoy together including crafts and guided tours. All ages welcome. 10am-5pm.

235-4485, www.oklahomahof.com Okie Made Market in Film Row (701 W Sheridan Ave) features an outdoor market with vendors that carry products made in Oklahoma including handmade decor, furniture, clothing, crafts, food, wine, art and more.

Free to attend. 10am-5pm. 810-6977, www.facebook.com/revolveproductions/ FREE Taloowa (Sing) Music Fair at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur) features live music in the Kochcha’ Aabiniili’ Amphitheater. 11am-7:30pm. 580-6227130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com Railfest at Moore’s Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a model train show, family activities, food trucks, music and more. 10am-9pm.

793-5090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com Indian Taco Sale & Indie Market at the OK Choctaw Tribal Alliance (5320 S Youngs Blvd) features traditional Indian tacos and other native dishes as well as native vendors offering crafts and handmade goods. Benefits the OK Choctaw Tribal Alliance. Free to attend. 11am-2:30pm. 681-0869, www. facebook.com/okchoctawtribalalliance

Crawfish Crawl at Events at 10 West Main (10 West Main St, Yukon) features a crawfish boil, sanctioned corn hole tournament, vendors, crawfisheating contest, family board games hosted by GameFace, face painting and a Pets and People Adoption Fair. Free to attend. 11am-9pm.

494-9504, eventsat10westmain.com Lucas Ross Banjo Farm at American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan Ave) features a fun, entertaining performance as Lucas Ross that takes you on a journey with music and puppetry to visit the Banjo Farm. Activities include a concert, CD signing and make your own banjo project. Adults, $4; kids, free. 2pm. 6042793, www.americanbanjomuseum.com Observing Animal Signs at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd).

Explore Martin Park woods in search of clues animals leave behind like animal tracks and scat. The group will then analyze their observations to find out what the animals are telling them. Preregister.

Best suited for ages 6 & up. $2. 2pm.

297-1429, www.okc.gov/parksignup FREE Beats & Bites Festival at Riverwind Casino (1544 W State HWY 9, Norman) features local food trucks, live entertainment and local vendors. 6-11pm. 322-6000, www.riverwind.com/beats-bites-2018/

May 12 & 13

Oklahoma Orchid Society Mother’s Day Show & Sale at Will Rogers Garden Exhibition Center (3400 NW 36th St) features hundreds of orchids on display and on sale, information tables, raffles and a silent auction. Free to attend.

Saturday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, 10am3pm. 209-7657, www.oosorchids.org

The Time Is Ripe

to Visit the Farmers Market

Whether you’re a frequent visitor or farmers-market first-timer, use these tips to make your next trip your best trip.

Arrive early. You’ll have the best

selection, plus it’s a great way to get moving in the morning.

Be spontaneous. Try a fruit or veggie you’ve never had!

Ask questions. Learn where your food comes from and ask about the best ways to prepare it.

May 13 • Sunday

Happy Mother’s Day Find more Mother’s Day ideas on page 35

Mother’s Day Brunch at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features carving stations, a variety of vegetables, fresh salads and other tempting side offerings as well as an extensive dessert buffet. Reservations required.

Adults, $35; kids (5-10), $17.50; kids (4 & under), free. 11am-2pm. 232-1184, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

25

See what’s in season, and find a long list of Oklahoma farmers market locations at

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

CLASS E S AT THE OKLAHOMA CITY

DESIGNED FOR STUDENTS OF ALL AGES Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this ad

Mother’s Day Dessert Cruise at the Exchange Landing (1503 Exchange Ave) features bite-sized desserts and mimosas from a cash bar during a cruise along the Oklahoma River. $30. 1-2:30 & 3:30-5pm.

702-7755, www.okrivercruises.com Mother’s Day Crafts at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features a full day of crafting including decorative tile coasters, tie dyeing, sand painting and DIY votive candles. $6-$8. 2-4:30pm. 2971429, www.okc.gov/parksignup

May 15 • Tuesday

Tiny Tuesdays at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a monthly themed come-and-go, openended art-making experiences are geared towards children, ages 5 and under, with a parent or caregiver. Dress for a mess! No advance registration is required. Free with admission. 10amnoon. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

May 17 • Thursday

FREE Story Time at The Boxcar (2100 N Eastern Ave, Moore) features story time, songs and a little bit of dancing hosted by representatives of the Moore library for kids ages 12 & under. 3-4pm.

759-7295, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

LO OK A ND C R EATE TO G ETH E R !

FREE Family Night Out at the Mustang Library (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features games, fun crafts and more. This event is come-and-go event. No registration required. 5-7pm.

376-2226, www.mustanglibrary.org

Family Workshops at OKCMOA involve gallery visits and art making for kids and a caring adult. Classes run throughout the year. Offerings are for ages 15-36 months, 3-5 years, and 6-10 years.

May 17-19

Visit okcmoa.com/learn for more information.

May 18 • Friday

Oklahoma State University Baseball vs Texas Tech University at Allie P. Reynolds Stadium (598 N Duck St, Stillwater). Prices vary. Thursday & Friday, 6:30pm; Saturday, 1pm.

877-ALL-4-OSU, www.okstate.com FREE Fridays, Food Trucks & Tunes in downtown Stillwater (8th Ave & Husband St, Stillwater) features family-friendly fun, live music and plenty of food served fresh out of the kitchens on wheels lined up along Main Street. Free to attend.

6-10pm. 533-8585, www.stillwater.org FREE Movie in the Park at Moore’s Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave,

@okcmoa @okcmoa

@oklahomacitymoa

okcmoa.com

26

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Moore) features an outdoor screening of Justice League. Concessions available.

7-10pm. centralpark.cityofmoore.com

May 18 & 19

May Daze Festival in Downtown Blanchard (Main St, Blanchard) features live entertainment, a carnival, food, shopping, games, competitions and more.

Free to attend. 10am-8pm. 485-8787, blanchardchamber.publishpath.com/events

May 19 & 20

OKC Whitewater Festival at RIVERSPORT Adventures (800 Riversport Dr) features R4 Rafting National Championship and American Canoe Association Slalom trials, Extreme Canoe Slalom Trials and a freestyle kayaking competition – as well as music and special Monster Energy BMX Team exhibitions.

Parking, $10. See website for schedule.

552-4040, www.riversportokc.org

May 19 • Saturday

FREE Hooked on Fishing Lessons at Metro Tech Springlake Campus (1900 Springlake Dr). Young anglers learn fishing basics including knottying, casting, fish identification, angler ethics and fishing regulations.

Classes are open to boys and girls 5 to 15 years old. All participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Preregister. 8-10:30am. www.okc.gov

Opening Day at White Water Bay (3908 W Reno Ave). Over 48”, $39.99; Under 48”, $29.99; kids (2 & under), free. 10:30am6pm. 943-9687, www.whitewaterbay.com FREE Walkabout in Midtown (various locations) features live music, face painting and a photo booth as well as specials and giveaways at local merchants. 2-6pm. downtownokc. com/midtown-walkabout/ FREE Outdoor Fest at Will Rogers Park (3400 NW 16th St) features live music, food trucks, outdoor recreation, educational exhibits and more. 2-9pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov FREE BikeMoore Group Ride at Buck Thomas Park (1903 NE 12th St, Moore).

Families and bicycle enthusiasts can participate in a community bike ride. Two route options available. All experience

FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation. 10-11am. 5282122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com Armed Forces Day at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur) features a special event honoring soldiers, past and present. 10am-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com Okie Sampler at Chester’s Party Barn & Farm (5201 Cimmaron Rd NW, Piedmont) features a full day of shopping, food & fun including a kids’ festival, food trucks, a monster truck show, live music, entertainment, pony rides, hay rides, petting zoo and more. $5, babies (1 & under), free. 10am-6pm.

373-1595, www.okiesampler.com

Get Your Rear in Gear at Journey Church (3801 Journey Pkwy, Norman) features a timed 5K run & walk as well as a kids’ fun run benefiting the Colon Cancer Coalition. $15-$35. 10:30am. 952378-1237, join.coloncancercoalition.org

repertoire. For ages 9 & up. Preregister.

2-3pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org

Village Fair at Casady Square Shopping Center (Britton Rd & N Penn Ave) features food trucks, inflatables, a Touch-a-Truck, bathtub races, hourly performances by everything from belly dancers and tap dancers to story tellers and vendors from throughout the state of Oklahoma. 11am4pm. 239-1248, casadysquareokc.com FREE Geek Con! at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features escape rooms, crafts, mini-panels, face painting and more. Costumes are encouraged.

All ages welcome. Preregistration recommended for some activities. 11am3pm. 606-3852, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Origami Party at the Bethany Library (7941 NW 23rd St, Bethany). Learn new origami patterns to add to your folding

FREE Heard on Hurd Street Fest in Edmond (Broadway between 1st & Hurd, Edmond) features local food, unique shopping and live music. 6-10pm. www. citizensedmond.com/heardonhurd.htm

May 20 • Sunday

Chaparral Family Sundays at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features family fun activities including mascot meet & greets, player autograph sessions, inflatables, face painting and more. Kids also get to run the bases following the game. $8 & up.

1:30pm. 218-1000, www.okcdodgers.com FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series at Lions Park (400 S Flood Ave, Norman) features a performance by Carrie Nation & the Speakeasy. Bring seating and refreshments. 7:30pm. Also held June 3 with Jacob Tovar and the Saddle Tramps. 301-9320, www.pasnorman.org

Dedicated to developing safe, strong swimmers since 1991.

405-721-1871

8405 N. Rockwell Ave., Ste. 1 Oklahoma City, OK. 73132 www.aqua-tots.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

©2018 Aqua-Tots Swim Schools

levels are welcome. 9:30am-12:30pm.

793-5054, www.cityofmoore.com

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CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

May 24

FREE Summer Concert Series at Hafer Park (1034 S Bryant Ave, Edmond) features an outdoor concert starring local artists, The Old Bulldog Band & John the Franklin. Bring your own seating and snow cones available for purchase. 6:158:45pm. Also held: May 31 & June 7.

359-4630, www.edmondok.com/concerts

Wild Kratts Live at Civic Center Music Hall (201 W Walker Ave). Animated Kratt Brothers, Martin and Chris, “come to real life” in a classically Wild Kratts story. $27.50 & up. 2pm. 2972264, www.okcciviccenter.com

May 22 • Tuesday

Little Sapling Series at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features songs, games and interactive fun to learn about gardens.

Preregister. For ages 2 - 5. 10-11am.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

The Wrap Party at Dunlap Codding (609 W Sheridan Ave) features hors d’oeuvres from participating restaurants, drinks tickets, live entertainment and more.

Benefits OK Foster Wishes. Must be 21 or older to attend. $50-$75. 5:30-8:30pm.

236-5437, oica.org/events/wrapparty/ FREE Mind Body Essentials Series at Raymond A. Young Conference Center at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center (3300 NW Expressway). Ashley Glenn will explore how trauma informed yoga can help you deal with stress and trauma. This presentation will include discussion and a short all-levels yoga practice. 6-7pm. 951-2277 FREE Cast Iron Cooking on a Budget at the Moore Library (225 S Howard, Moore).

Learn how to cook a tasty and budgetfriendly meal in your cast iron cookware.

For ages 14 & up. Preregister. 6-7pm.

793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

May 23 • Wednesday

FREE Cake Decorating for Teens at the Almonte Library (2914 SW 59th St).

Learn some cake and cupcake decorating techniques from a local bakery. For ages 12 & up. Preregister. 5-7:30pm.

606-3575, www.metrolibrary.org

May 23-27

Phillips Big 12 Baseball Championship at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features eight

28

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

teams competing in a single elimination tournament for the championship. Prices vary. See website for schedule. 2365000, www.okcallsports.org/big12bsb

May 24 • Thursday

FREE Sensory Story Time at the Mustang Library (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features a special story time geared towards children with special needs. Enjoy stories and activities in a stress-free environment. Preregister. 5pm.

376-2226, www.mustanglibrary.org

FREE Ping Pong Mania at The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a family friendly evening of ping pong. All experience levels welcome. Kids 6 & under must be accompanied by an adult. 7:30-9:30pm.

793-5090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com

May 25-27

Babies at the Museum at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features complimentary coffee, social time, a 30-minute gallery tour and playtime with age-appropriate activities in a classroom.

Members, $5; non-members, $12. Friday & Saturday, 9:30-11:30am; Sunday, 11:30am1:30pm. 278-8213, www.okcmoa.com

May 25-28

Chris Neal’s “Future Stars” Calf Roping at the Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie) features numbered roping competitions and an Open Ladies Breakaway and All-Girl Tie-down. Prices vary. See website for a schedule of events.

282-7433, www.risingstarscalfroping.com

May 26 • Saturday

FREE Hooked on Fishing Lessons at South Lakes East Pond (7210 SW 119th St). Young anglers learn fishing basics including knot-tying, casting, fish identification, angler ethics and fishing regulations. Classes are open to boys and girls 5 to 15 years old. All participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Preregister. 8-10:30am. www.okc.gov

Bethany 66 Festival (Ashbury & College Ave, Bethany) features food, downtown sidewalk sales, antiques, commercial exhibits and children’s activities including a Princess & Action Hero Parade and a Pet Parade.

Free to attend. 10am-4pm. 312-0155, www.bethanyimprovementfoundation. com/bethany-66-festival/

FREE Retro Video Game Tournament at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features a friendly competition to win a grand prize. All ages are welcome. Preregister. 1-3pm. 2318650, www.metrolibrary.org Kayak Tour of Stinchcomb at the Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge (NW 51st St & N Stinchcomb Ave). Martin Park Naturalists will take participants on a kayak trip through Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge to discuss the different plants and animals. Best suited for ages 14 & up with kayaking experience. Preregister. $15. 2-4pm. www.okc.gov/parksignup

May 26-28

Paseo Arts Festival in the Paseo Arts District (3022 Paseo St) features art vendors, live entertainment, food vendors and a children’s area. Free to attend.

Saturday & Sunday, 10am-10pm; Monday, 10am-5pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.org

May 26 & 27

Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features two days of family fun including chuck wagon food samples, artisan demonstrations, live music, rope making, western re-enactors, face painting, children’s craft stations and more. Saturday only, meet Hank the Cowdog author John R. Erickson. $15; kids (12 & under) & museum members, free. 10am-4pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Memorial Day Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Dr, Sulphur) features cultural demonstrations, traditional games and a family films in the Anoli’ Theater.

Fees apply for films and admission to the exhibit halls. Saturday, 10am5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com

May 27 • Sunday

Banda Carnaval in Concert at Frontier City (11501 N I-35 Service Rd). Free with park admission. See website for performance time. 478-2140, www. frontiercity.com/entertainment/concerts/

May 28 • Monday

FREE Memorial Day Celebration at the 45th Infantry Division Museum (2145 NE 63th St) features a helicopter flyover, massing of the colors, patriotic music

and distinguished guest speakers. 10am.

424-5313, www.45thdivisionmuseum.com Scout Day at Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium Ave, Jenks) features discounted admission and special activities for youth organizations and their members.

Adults, $10; scouts (3 & up), $7. Special activities are offered from 11am-1pm.

918-296-3474, www.okaquarium.org

FREE Summer Reading Kick Off and Parade at the Moore Library (225 S Howard Ave, Moore) features a parade from Moore City Hall to the Library followed by music, games, crafts, treats and summer reading sign ups for all ages. Parade, 10am; activities, 10:30am.

793-4347, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Dino Terrariums at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Travel back to prehistoric days of dinosaurs by creating your own mini dino garden.

Best suited for ages 6-10. Preregister.

Members, 9; non-members, $11. 2-3pm.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

May 28-June 1

Summer Movie Series at Harkins Bricktown 16 (150 E. Reno Ave) features a kid-friendly screening of Smurfs: The Lost Village. $5. 9:45am. www.harkinstheatres.com/smf

May 29 • Tuesday

May 31 • Thursday

Full Moon Bike Ride and Run at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a leisurely hour’s ride through downtown OKC and timed training runs. All ages welcome. $5. Runs, 8pm; bike ride, 8:30pm.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

FREE Summer Concert Series at Hafer Park (1034 S Bryant Ave, Edmond) features an outdoor concert starring local artists, Steve Story & Vinyl Stripes. Bring your own seating and snow cones available for purchase. 6:15-8:45pm. Also held: June 7. 359-4630, www.edmondok.com/concerts

FREE Summer Thursdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features story time, a movie, crafts and as well as special themed activities. 10:30am.

523-3230, www.oklahomahof.com FREE Summer Reading Kickoff at the Mustang Library (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features balloon animals, face painting, carnival-style games and more. For kids ages 12 & under. 4-7pm.

376-2226, www.mustanglibrary.org FREE Summer Reading Kick-Off at the Southwest OKC Library (2201 SW 134th St) features a building-wide scavenger hunt, a visit from the Maker Mobile, crafts, music and more. All ages welcome. 4:30-6pm. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Pop and Palette Teen Night at the Mustang Library (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang). An instructor will walk teens through a painting as they sip on their favorite soda. For kids in grades 6-12. Preregister. 6pm. 376-2226, mustangpubliclibrary.eventbrite.com

THANK YOU

for voting for us again!

Now enrolling for summer and next season

www.studiojdanceok.com (405) 348-3377 420 S. Santa Fe / Edmond METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

29

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN Share in our Stomp Dance demonstrations.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Mother’s Celebration & Music Fair MAY 12

Armed Forces Celebration & Native Drums MAY 19

Memorial Celebration MAY 26 & 27

Father’s Celebration & Native Creativity JUNE 16

SPRING in BLOOM GARDENS

•

FESTIVITIES

•

FUN

Join us as we celebrate

the season with festivities, attractions, art and culture.

Tour the Traditional Village, Butterfly Gardens and Water Pavilion.

Indoors are fascinating exhibits and experiences to share. Shop and enjoy the sunlit Aaimpa' Café.

Route 66 Triathlon at Lake El Reno (801 Babcock Dr, El Reno) features the Olympic Distance Traithlon, a 1500m swim, 40km bike and 10k run, and the Sprint Distance Triathlon. $30 & up. See website for schedule. 230-8151, triokc.club

May 31-June 23

Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave).

In Shakespeare’s most popular comedy, two couples deal with love and all its complications like confusion, jealousy and passion. $20; students, $15. 8pm. 2353700, www.oklahomashakespeare.com

May 31-June 6

NCAA Women’s College World Series at ASA National Softball Hall of Fame & Museum (2801 NE 50th St). College teams will compete for the National Championship title. Single game and all session tickets available. $20-$45. See website for schedule.

866-208-0048, www.okcallsports.org

June 1 • Friday

Our Spiral Garden features the ancient “Three Sisters” method of planting beans, corn and squash together.

Stroll across the beautiful new Inkana' Bridge!

FREE Play in the Park at Moore’s Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features fun games and activities for kids ages 6-14. Parent must be with children at all times. Also held: June 8 at Apple Valley Park. 10-11am. 7935090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com FREE Summer Scavenger Hunts in the Parks at Moore’s Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore).

Every Friday throughout the summer, morning clues will be posted on Facebook by noon for each park that is participating that week. Register your team at www.cityofmoore.com/fun.

H&8th Night Market in Midtown (815 N Hudson Ave) features a family- and pet-friendly street festival built around a lineup of the city’s top gourmet food trucks and live music in conjunction with the ProAm Classic. 5-11pm. www.h8thokc.com

FREE Midwest Summer Fest in at Charles Johnson Park (29th & MidAmerica Blvd, Midwest City) features live entertainment, a movie in the park, yard games, food trucks and more. May’s movie is Angels in the Outfield. 6-11pm.

739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org

ChickasawCulturalCenter.com Sulphur, OK • 580-622-7130

30 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

FREE Dancing in the Gardens at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features an urban dance space for an evening of dancing and a live DJ. Drink and food specials will be offered to highlight the night.

All ages welcome. 7-10pm. 4457080, www.myriadgardens.org FREE Summer Nights Concert Series at Moore’s Central Park Amphitheater (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features music underneath the stars. 7-10pm.

793-5100, www.cityofmoore.com

June 1 & 2

Spirit of Oklahoma Storytelling Festival at Eastlake Cumberland Presbyterian Church (700 SW 134th St) features prairie stories, American Indian stories, story swaps, concerts and ghost tales from nationally known, regional and local tellers. Prices vary. See website for schedule. 8268946, www.territorytellers.com

June 1-3

Pro-Am Classic in Oklahoma City (Midtown, Film Row and Automobile Alley) features three full days of racing for both the amateur and elite cyclist. FREE to watch, participation prices vary. See website for schedule. www.okcpac.com Small Town Weekend in El Reno Adams Park (2001 Park Dr, El Reno) features a car show, Hot Wheels races, drag races, burnouts, antique car cruise, kids’ games and more. Free to attend; prices vary. www.ercruisers.com

June 2 • Saturday

NAMI Oklahoma Walk 5K at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a family-friendly walk, music, Zumba, health fair, face painting, photo booth and more. Benefits NAMI Oklahoma.

Fundraising encouraged. 8am. 6018283, www.namiwalks.org FREE Yoga in the Park at Earlywine Park (3101 SW 119th St) features an outdoor session of yoga open to the community. All ages welcome. 9am. www. facebook.com/groups/yogaintheparkmoore

Chisholm Trail Crawfish Festival at Mollie Spencer Farm (1001 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon) features living history re-enactors of the Old West,

authentic Cajun foods, a live Cajun band, Cajun dance lessons, crawfish racing, pie eating contests, Civil War demonstrations, gunfights, food vendors, craft booths, the Kids Korral, pony rides and a petting zoo. 9am-6pm.

350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov Edmond Electric Touch-a-Truck at UCO (Hurd & Baumann, Edmond) features life-size vehicles and community support leaders like police officers, firemen, construction workers and more. Benefits the Edmond Hope Center. $2. 9amnoon. 219-7729, edmondok.com/1202/ Edmond-Electric-Touch-a-Truck Repticon Oklahoma City Reptile & Exotic Animal Expo at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features reptile pet vendors offering supplies, feeders, cages and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and raffles. Adults, $10; kids (5-12), $5; kids (4 & under), free.

Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 10am4pm. 863-268-4273, www.repticon.com

(405) 820-6851

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FREE Saturday for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NW 63rd St). Watch spinning and weaving demonstrations and then try your hand at a project of your own. For ages 4 – 12. Activities available while supplies last. 10am-noon. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

June 4 • Monday

FREE Story Time at Moore’s Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a story time led by the Moore Library. All ages welcome. 10am & 7pm. 793-5090, www.cityofmoore.com FREE First Mondays for Kids at Sam Noble Museum (2401 S Chautauqua, Norman) features complimentary admission for kids 17 years old and under.

General admission applies to guests 18 and older. Adults (18-64), $8; seniors (65+), $6; Kids (17 & under), free. 10am5pm. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

June 3 • Sunday

Chaparral Family Sundays at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features family fun activities including mascot meet & greets, player autograph sessions, inflatables, face painting and more. Kids also get to run the bases following the game. $8 & up.

1:30pm. 218-1000, www.okcdodgers.com

June 5-10

FREE Summer Breeze Concert Series at Lions Park (400 S Flood Ave, Norman) features live music provided

by Jacob Tovar and the Saddle Tramp.

Bring seating and refreshments. 7:30pm.

301-9320, www.pasnorman.org

An American in Paris at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features the story of an American soldier, a mysterious French girl, and an indomitable European city each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war.

Recommended for Ages 8 & up. $44-$109.

877-737-2929, www.okcbroadway.com

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

31

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

ONGOING EVENTS

INTO THE FOLD: THE ART AND SCIENCE OF ORIGAMI AT SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA

Through May 12

FREE Once Upon a Playground at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a visual tribute to the classic metal and wood structures that have populated playgrounds for most of the 20th century. Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm. 3400078, www.edmondhistory.org FREE Monkey Bars and Walking Trails: Over 100 Years of Edmond Parks at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) showcases the history of the Edmond parks system and the role parks play in the community. Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm. 3400078, www.edmondhistory.org

Through May 27

FREE Fine Print! Posters from Permanent Collection at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman) explores how posters worked to sell audiences on products, people and ideas. See rarely exhibited European and American posters in the museum’s permanent collection that were produced between the fin-de-siècle French poster movement of the 1890s and the 1972 Olympics. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am5pm; Thursday, until 9pm; Sunday, 1-5pm. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma

32 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Through June 10

Apichatpong Weerasethakul: The Serenity of Madness at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a new solo exhibition showcasing a selected survey of rarely seen experimental short films and video installations by Weerasethakul, alongside his photography, sketches and archival materials that explore threads of sociopolitical commentary. Adults, $12; students & kids (ages 6-18), $10; kids (5 & under), free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, until 9pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

Through Aug. 12

Decomposition: Discovering the Beauty and Magnificence of Fungi at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) showcases the amazing beauty, shapes, colors and textures of fungi—the mysterious agents behind decay, rot and mold. Adults, $15.95; kids (3-12), $12.95. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm.

602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

Through Sept. 2

The Art of Oklahoma at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a selection of paintings, prints and photographs spanning 100 years and ranging in style from Impressionism and documentary photography to

geometric abstraction and hyperrealism.

The exhibition includes 23 works by 19 artists including Oscar Brousse Jacobson, Nellie Shepherd, David Fitzgerald and Woody Big Bow, among others. Adults, $12; kids (6-18), $10; kids (5 & under), free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, until 9pm; Sunday, noon5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

Opening May 26

Megalodon: Largest Shark that Ever Lived at Sam Noble Museum (2401 S Chautauqua Ave, Norman) showcases both fossil and modern shark specimens as well as full-scale models from several collections. Visitors enter a full-size sculpture of Megalodon through massive jaws and discover this shark’s history and the world it inhabited, including its size, structure, diet, lifespan, relatives, neighbors, evolution and extinction. Free with admission. Adults, $8; kids (4-17), $5; kids (3 & under), free. MondaySaturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm.

325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

Through Nov. 11

In the Principles Office: Tom Ryan the Art Student at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) takes visitors into the classroom with Ryan as he takes “general illustration” with famed teacher Frank Reilly. Learn the principles of art as he did. Adults, $12.50; students, $9.75; kids (6-12), $5.75; kids (5 & under), free. Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Opening May 31

IKBI: Chickasaws and Choctaws Sharing Our Culture and History Through Art at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features artists of both tribes using various mediums to express their cultural roots and individual understandings of what it means to create.

Free with admission. Adults, $7; kids (6-17), $5; kids (5 & under), free. TuesdayFriday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm.

235-4458, www.oklahomahof.com

Through Jan 13

Into the Fold: The Art and Science of Origami at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features 29 origami artists from around the state, nation and world, exploring their diverse styles, backgrounds and techniques for the art form — from solving problems in the fields of robotics, medicine and space exploration to fashion and architecture.

Adults, $15.95; kids (3-12), $12.95.

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm. 6026664, www.sciencemuseumok.org Discover more museum exhibits at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/museums.

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Learn more at edmondpediatrics.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

33

ENROLL NOW IN SUMMER ARTS CAMPS

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

WEEKLY EVENTS

SUMMER BREAK

FREE Art Moves in Downtown Oklahoma City (various locations) features live art like musical and theater performances, demonstrations and short film selections. Weekdays, noon-1pm.

270-4848, www.artscouncilokc.com

SUMMER ARTS CAMPS

May 29 - Aug. 10 Pre-K - Grade 9

Campers get handson and learn about visual, digital and performing arts.

See camp details and enroll at

bit.ly/OCsummer.

FREE Art Adventures at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) for ages 3-5. Young artists are invited to experience art through books. Tuesdays, 10:30am. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Tuesday Night Classics at Harkins Theatre (150 E Reno Ave) features special presentations of classic films on the big screen including Casablanca. $5. Tuesdays, 7pm.

231-4747, www.harkins.com FREE Wheeler Criterium in the Wheeler District (1701 S Western Ave) features some of Oklahoma’s top flat-track riders, live music and food trucks. Tuesdays, 5-8:30pm. www.facebook.com/wheelercrit/ FREE Mother Goose Story Time at the Mustang Public Library (1201 N Mustang Rd) features singing, dancing, finger plays and more. For ages 2 & under with caregiver. Wednesdays, 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 376-2226, www.mustanglibrary.org/library FREE Reading Wednesdays Story Time at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a nature-themed story time and craft activity. Best suited for ages 2-5.

Walkups welcome. Wednesdays, 10-11am.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Early Explorers at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features come & go, hands-on science activities for kids ages 6 & under.

No registration required. Free with admission. Wednesdays, 10-11am. 6026664, www.sciencemuseumok.org Toddler Story & Craft Time at Unpluggits Paint & Play (575 Enterprise Dr Ste 110) features a short story time and age appropriate craft with lots of gluing and coloring. Free with admission.

Wednesdsays & Thursdays, 11-11:30am.

340-7584, www.unpluggits.com FREE Whole Kids Club Story Time at Whole Foods Café (6001 N Western Ave). Best suited for ages 5 & under.

oklahomacontemporary.org 405.951.0000 | @okcontemporary 3000 General Pershing Blvd. OKC

34 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Thursdays, 10-11am. 879-3500, www.wholefoodsmarket.com FREE Preschool Story Time at the Mabel C. Fry Public Library (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) features stories, songs, rhymes, crafts, and lots of fun for kids ages 3 to kindergarten.

Thursdays, 11:15am. 354-8232, www.yukonok.gov/city-departments/ mabel-c-fry-public-library/ FREE Rhythm and Rhyme at Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon) features dancing and singing to develop literacy and motor and verbal skills. Best suited to ages 4 & under with caregiver. Thursdays, 10:30am.

354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov Family Skate Night at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St). Admission includes basic skate rental. (Family package coupon available at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/coupons). $6.

Thursdays, 7-10pm; Sundays, 6-8pm.

605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com FREE Children’s Story Time at Full Circle Books (1900 NW Expressway).

Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com All Star Bowling at Bronco Bowl (133 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features noncompetitive bowling for the differentlyabled, family & friends in a safe and fun environment. Ramps and bumpers are available. $3 per game bowled. Saturdays.

Two start times are available: 11am or 1pm. 256-5515, www.autismoklahoma.org FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May Ave) features crafts for kids ages 3 & up. No reservations necessary.

Saturdays, 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com FREE Story Time at Commonplace Books (1325 N Walker Ave).

Saturdays, 10:30am. 551-1715, www.commonplacebooksokc.com Mommy & Me Yoga at Tot Town (841 SW 119th St) features a kid and parent friendly yoga session with a certified instructor. Kids can try poses or play during the workout. Best suited for ages 0-6 and pre- & postnatal moms are welcome too. $5. Saturdays, 10-10:30am.

650-7560, www.tottownokc.com

Happy Mother's Day Mother’s Day is May 13 but we’re giving you some ideas to help celebrate all month long! Honor the moms in your life by taking them to a local event. Here are some great options.

For moms who love to shop: May 4 & 5 Old Chicken Farm Vintage Barn Sale in Jones, Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. & Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

May 12

Okie Made Market on Film Row, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Indie Trunk Show at State Fair Park, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

May 19

Okie Sampler at Chester’s Party Barn & Farm, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For moms who love festivals: May 4-6 FREE Arts Festival in Downtown Edmond, Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.

– 8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

May 5 & 6

FREE May Fair Arts Festival in Norman, Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

May 19

FREE Outdoor Fest at Will Rogers Park, 2-9 p.m.

Paseo Arts Festival in Oklahoma City, Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For moms who love the arts: May 4-6

Rose Rock Music Festival in Noble, festivities begin Friday, 5 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.

May 11

May 20

FREE Summer Breeze Concerts Series in Norman, 7:30 p.m.

For moms who love family time: May 8 FREE Muffins with Mom Story Time at the Moore Library, 10 – 11 a.m.

May 13

Mother’s Day Dessert Cruise on the Oklahoma River, 1 & 3:30 p.m.

Mother’s Day Crafts at Martin Park Nature Center, 2 – 4:30 p.m.

PLUS here are some venues offering free admission for moms on Mother’s Day: Andy Alligator’s Fun Park, free swimming for moms on Mother’s Day, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Oklahoma Aquarium, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art, noon to 5 p.m.

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 1 – 5 p.m.

Chickasaw Cultural Center, noon – 5 p.m.

Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum, buy one get one free, noon – 6 p.m.

Orr Family Farm, free admission for moms on May 12, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, free admission for moms from 1 – 4 p.m.

FREE 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk, 6 – 9 p.m.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, noon – 5 p.m.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in Oklahoma City, 6 – 10 p.m.

Skate Galaxy, moms skate free 1 – 3:45 p.m. & 6-8 p.m.

May 12

FREE Beats & Bites Festival at Riverwind Casino, 6 – 11 p.m.

Crystal Bridge Conservatory, free admission for moms with paid family member, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

RIVERSPORT Adventures, moms raft free, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

ManyThanks for voting us the past 6 years:

Best Gymnastics Facility and Best Birthday Party Venue • Summer Camps and Clinics • Parent-Tot Classes • Preschool Gymnastics (boys & girls) • Recreational Classes • Tumbling Classes (boys & girls) • Competitive Team • NEW: Youth & Adult Aerial Silks • Private Lessons • Birthday Parties • Play Group Outings • Easy online enrollment

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www.metrogymokc.com 7420 Broadway Ext., Suite A OKC, OK 73116 AAU Competitive Team Training Center (Suite F) email: metrogymokc@sbcglobal.net Co-Owners: Sarah Blackledge Brawley Carol Blackledge Lee

Awesome Moms

BY HANNAH SCHMITT. PHOTOS BY KIMERA BASORE

Winner:

Charifa Smith

The day I met Charifa Smith at Starbucks for this interview was the day her first daughter, Sage, would have been 10 years old. Sage was diagnosed with a heart condition before she was born and died at just two days old. The graceful way Charifa handled the situation was one of the countless reasons her Mom, Carla Clark, nominated her in our Awesome Moms contest.

“My Mom has seen me go through a lot,” Charifa said. “She’s seen me being there for my children and she sees that strength as something that should be celebrated.”

After the loss of Sage, Charifa went on to open (and later close) a restaurant named after her first daughter, have three more daughters and become a volunteer and advocate for a handful of local organizations.

Charifa is an attorney, a philanthropist and the executive director of the Federal Judicial Learning Center and Museum in Oklahoma City’s Federal Courthouse.

36 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

But Charifa’s most important role is her role as a mom. She and husband Kevin are the parents of Addis (8), Ellis (6) and Harper (5). Charifa jokes that having three daughters under the same roof feels like “a slumber party every night” and I can tell by listening to her parenting style that she’s as much about having fun as she is about discipline and education. Among the things that make a mom “awesome,” Charifa said, are being nurturing and available, but also spontaneous.

“I want my children to enjoy their life and enjoy being a kid,” she said. “Someday they will be grown up and life might not seem as much fun. I want them to have fun now.”

She knows how to have fun with her kids, but losing Sage was a defining moment as a wife and mother.

“We grieved and we grieved hard,” she said of herself and her husband after Sage died.

“We really came together during that time for each other. And once the other children started coming, we really just wanted them to be healthy. It gives you perspective. It’s not about gender or what they look like. You

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have a healthy, beautiful child.”

She admits that after Sage died, she was excited to have more kids as a way to cope with the extreme level of grief.

“I thought it would heal my heart,” she said.

“You just think, let me have another one and I’ll feel better.’ No. I completely love and adore my children now but they would never replace what I’ve lost. It just doesn’t go away.”

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When Charifa talks, it’s obvious that “mom” is her favorite title, but her resume includes plenty of others. Before moving back to Oklahoma City 10 years ago, the Millwood High School graduate attended Spelman College in Atlanta, worked for American Express in New York, graduated from law school, completed a foreign exchange in South Africa, worked for the United Nations and the Council on Foreign Relations and attended the University of Oxford for a time.

“I thought it would heal my heart. You just think, ‘let me have another one and I’ll feel better.’ No. I completely love and adore my children now but they would never replace what I’ve lost. It just doesn’t go away.”

She admits she didn’t always have a passion for non-profits but having kids helped her realize how she could use her own talents and abilities for others.

“Once you become a mom, you look around and see there are other ways to contribute,” she said. “You have that voice and that purpose.”

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Finalist:

Keri Snyder

Every day at school drop-off, Keri Snyder repeats her mantra: “Kind words. Kind thoughts. Kind actions” to her 12-year-old son Benicio. She reminds 4-year-old son Christopher to check on classmates who seem upset. A fifth grade math and science teacher at Northmoor Elementary School in Moore, Snyder interjects “kindness matters” lessons to her students, too, modeling it herself in regular visits to the special needs classroom, volunteering with Special Olympics, calling students after school to praise responsibility and responding to parental concerns anytime day or night.

She encourages her sons and students to be leaders whom other people want to be around.

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Snyder was nominated in our Awesome Moms contest by Terrisha Harris, who said Snyder sets the bar for providing stellar education, guiding parents and teachers toward a united goal of success. In the classroom and as a PTA liaison, Snyder encourages parents to communicate consistently with teachers and engage with their children in class projects, daily reading and math fact practice. She displays that unity and engagement with her own parenting team: her husband James and ex-husband and Benicio’s father Eduardo Ortega. Though managing that relationship post-divorce was challenging at first, they put Benicio first by listening to each other and communicating every day.

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Although she never thought she’d end up back in Oklahoma City after all her travels, she adores her community and is an active volunteer. She’s on the board at John Rex Elementary School, the Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools and Freedom School and the president of the Oklahoma City chapter of Jack and Jill for America, a national membership organization for African American moms.

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“Benicio needs to see us working together and being supportive of him together,” said Snyder.

Snyder encourages her sons’ independence and values honesty in their relationship, with no topics off-limits to discuss. She believes that in life, success can’t be attained without effort.

Leading by example, Snyder was actively involved in the historic teacher walkout in April. Teaching with 12-year-old textbooks in a classroom perpetually smelling of mold, Snyder said dwindling accountability in students’ homes translates into a lack of respect in the classroom. Despite daily challenges, she is grateful for the support of her school and community, believing fervently in her life’s calling to impact students’ lives.

“Every morning I think, ‘this is a new start and these kids are going to get the best I have to offer,’” said Snyder.

As a parent, when Benicio first reads a book or Christopher identifies the letters in his

name, she feels a deep appreciation for the teachers who’ve helped foster their learning success. When she sees a former student going to college or hears the multiplication table song she taught still helps a student during high school math, her resolve is strengthened. While advocating at the Capitol, Snyder repeatedly thought of one student with special needs. In second grade, difficulty communicating resulted in anger and frustration. Now in fifth grade, he can express when he’s upset, trusting she will work with him to fix the problem.

“The mountains we have climbed!” Snyder exclaimed. “He’s why we need funding.

There are services he and other students like him need that they aren’t getting.”

Snyder has lived on the same salary for 10 years, and for her, it’s not about a raise but rather ensuring public education has adequate funding every year.

“I want my students to look back and remember that their teachers fought for them,” Snyder said. “We are teaching them to stand up for what they believe in.”

While passionate about school and community involvement, Snyder prioritizes family time. She finds joy in playing with her boys, strengthening their faith in God and teaching them they can accomplish anything.

Her determination to love her boys for who they are, through successes and failures, comes from her adoptive mother.

“The only woman I have ever called mom was my biggest cheerleader,” said Snyder. “She made me feel wanted. She was my champion.”

Finalist:

Tasha La Shel Miles

Tasha La Shel Miles’ high-powered career as a weapons systems logistics officer at Tinker Air Force Base involves managing a worldwide supply chain for F15 and F16 fighter jets. The self-proclaimed “serious one” between she and husband, Hezekiah, her extroverted nature and zest for life shine when helping others. In a home filled with dancing and music, Miles loves being a silly, goofy mom to Elijah, 14, and Jeremiah, 12. A master at creating family fun on a budget, she orchestrates cooking lessons, card games and backyard campouts. She believes those are the experiences her boys will remember.

“I want to teach my boys to find contentment in every circumstance,” said Miles, who strives to emulate the life she wants them to lead.

Miles was nominated by her mother Mae Burge, who said accolades in Miles’ career, involvement with community events like Opening Night and Festival of the Arts, ongoing care of aging parents and in-laws and active monitoring of her sons’ social media accounts launch Miles to Super Mom status. Miles’ greatest challenge transitioning into her boys’ teenage years has been the prevalence of technology.

“I think it makes children adults too fast,” said Miles, noting when access is revoked, her boys get creative, reading more, drawing and taking up origami.

38 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

As her sons mature and gain more independence, she often reminds them of a favorite Bible verse from Proverbs 4:23: Guard your heart above all else for it determines the course of your life.

“What you put in your heart comes out of your mouth,” said Miles. “Not that they can’t ever hear adult dialogue, but they have to protect their heart, mind and spirit. More God. Less of the junk.”

Miles limits her own social media usage to minimize the “mom comparison game.”

Real-life relationships with the like-minded moms in her cooking club are crucial to her well-being. They rely on each others’ strengths to shore up areas where they feel weak, helping each other through the various phrases of their kids’ childhoods.

“We have deep conversations about feeling inadequate or disappointed,” said Miles.

“The truth is, we don’t really know until [our kids] get out of the house if we did a good job or not. That’s daunting.”

Also vital to Miles are her “sanity checks.”

Though she used to feel guilty about taking time for herself at a poetry night or in a

boot camp, she began to realize when she’s not, she gets impatient and rigid with those around her. At work, as the director of her church’s Vacation Bible School or at home, she delegates to keep herself from getting stretched too thin.

Be consumed.

Miles gets a charge from letting her silly side show at VBS each summer, where she loves dressing in character and leading dances and chants. In addition to helping strengthen her students’ faith, she encourages public speaking through scripture memorization and leading pledges. Grateful to her mom for her own speaking proficiency, she hopes to impart lifelong confidence to the kids she leads.

Miles’ husband said in leading by example, she pushes those around her to be better versions of themselves, like going back to school to earn her master’s degree, following a calling to teach children about God and not taking herself too seriously.

“My boys see me pray and praise God and sing,” said Miles. “I want them to look back and know that I was supportive and that we had a lot of fun.”

MEGALODON Largest Shark that Ever Lived

May 26 – Jan. 6

Thanks to our 2018 Awesome Moms sponsors: 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman, OK 73072-7029 (405) 325-4712 | samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

Megalodon: Largest Shark that Ever Lived was produced by the Florida Museum of Natural History with support from the National Science Foundation.

Special exhibits sponsored by

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

39

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. ou.edu/eoo.

For accommodations, please call (405) 325-4712.

LEARN MORE

@OklahomaHoF

1400 Classen Drive | Oklahoma City, OK 73106 | 405.235.4458 | oklahomahof.com

PRE SENTS

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1400 Classen Drive (NW 13th Street and Shartel Avenue) | 405.235.4458 | oklahomahof.com

EXPLORING BEYOND OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN

Uncover Family Fun in

Wisconsin

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT TRAVELING TO WISCONSIN Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

BY KIMBERLY BURK. PHOTOS COURTESY OF TRAVEL WISCONSIN, VICTORIAN VILLAGE RESORT & OSTHOFF RESORT

If the breathtaking surroundings aren’t reason enough, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin is brimming with opportunities for family fun. As it heats in up Oklahoma City, there’s never been a better time to head north. Elkhart Lake is located about an hour north of Milwaukee. Take your pick of flying into Milwaukee and driving or taking the airport shuttle service to Elkhart Lake or pile in for a road trip, as it’s about 14 hours from the metro by car.

KETTLE MORAINE STATE FOREST

Although tourists agree the area is beautiful year-round, hospitality professionals at Elkhart Lake tend to have a soft spot for the summer months, when families with children arrive.

“I’m a mother and grandmother, and it warms my heart to see kids roasting marshmallows, running around under the stars playing games and having breathless fun, just like children should,” said Judith Salzwedel, owner of the Victorian Village Resort on the lake.

Families find tons of opportunities for family fun around Elkhart Lake.

Here are some favorites:

Scenic Trail. It winds its way through the 30,000-acre Kettle Moraine State Forest, which showcases the rolling terrain left behind by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Stretching south from Elkhart Lake, the state forest offers biking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, boating, picknicking, swimming, wildlife viewing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Sugar maple, hickory, cottonwood, red and white oak and ironwood are among the trees young naturalists can identify during a hike of the Ice Age Trail, a 1,000-mile footpath through Wisconsin, and wildlife includes coyotes, badgers, gray and red squirrels, weasels, otter, mink and deer. Transient black bears and wolves sometimes wander down from the north, Scharfenberg said.

Catch fish and learn about Native Americans at Henschel’s Indian Museum and Trout Farm located just outside Elkhart Lake. A fishing license is not required at the trout farm and visitors pay by the pound for the rainbow trout they catch from spring-fed ponds. Poles and bait are available, and owner Gary Henschel will clean the fish and put them on ice.

The attraction is on land Henschel’s ancestors purchased in 1849, when Potawatomi and other Indians still camped on a lake that adjoined the property. In 1979, he created the museum as a place to display the thousands of artifacts picked up by his family and unearthed during an archaeological dig. Henschel can answer questions while visitors check out arrowheads, projectile points, tools and pottery fragments dating back more than 10,000 years.

Curious kids would find it difficult to stump park ranger Jackie Scharfenberg of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, an expert on the landscape and vegetation of the Ice Age National ELKHART LAKE FAMILY BONFIRE AT OSTHOFF RESORT

42 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

“Glaciers picked up rocks and gravel and made holes,” Scharfenberg said. “They called them kettle holes and kettle lakes. There are 12 lakes in the forest. Glaciers also created lakes by damming up ancient rivers.”

Road America, a destination in itself, is also a lucky perk for families who vacation at the resort. A private four-mile course created in the

FAMILY HIKING AT TABLE BLUFF

1950s after city fathers deemed the use of public streets too dangerous for road racing, Road America has grown into a world-class 600-acre venue that holds nearly 400 events a year, from NASCAR to indie car to motorcycle races. Ziplining and geocaching round out the offerings for young visitors and their parents.

FAMILY HIKING AT TABLE BLUFF

May 29-June 1

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

43

Here are some other fabulous attractions in the Elkhart Lake area: Guided fishing on Elkhart Lake with Jay Brickner. The lake is 119 feet at its deepest and yields walleye, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch and crappie.

Go to www.JaysGuideService.com.

Wade House Historic Site and Carriage Museum. Tour the 27-room stagecoach hotel

and Wesley Jung Carriage Museum and take a ride in a horse-drawn wagon. Learn more at www.WadeHouse.org.

Henning’s Cheese Museum in nearby Kiel. Watch cheese being made on weekday mornings. Go to www.HenningsCheese.com and call (920) 894-3032 for tour hours.

Where to Stay: Victorian Village Resort is an 11-acre resort with indoor and outdoor pools and

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KETTLE MORAIN STATE FOREST

Oklahoma will impact the lives of more than 800,000 central Oklahomans.

StandUnitedOKC.com VICTORIAN VILLAGE RESORT

/unitedwayokc

@unitedwayokc

44 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

600 feet of lake frontage where colorful playground equipment is nestled between padded wicker chairs and cots designed for soaking up the sun.

Elkhart Lake Water Sports is located on the Victorian Village beach and offers skiing, wakeboarding and tubing on the lake and rents pontoons, paddleboards, kayaks, hydrobikes and canoes.

Victorian Village offers 12 lakeside suites and another dozen luxury condos, as well as 49 hotel-style rooms designed for families on a budget and connected to the indoor pool, which Salzwedel said comes in especially handy on rainy days.

The Osthoff Resort and Siebkens Resort also offer private beaches on the 292-acre lake.

Osthoff, a AAA Four Diamond all-suite hotel, features a spa and two restaurants where produce is supplied by Osthoff’s own vegetable and herb gardens. The resort’s 500foot lakefront has a playground, volleyball courts, grills and a bonfire area. The resort’s watercraft rentals are also available to the public.

BIKING IN KETTLE MORAINE STATE FOREST

The one, two and three-bedroom condos at Siebkens have full kitchens, and the resort also houses restaurants including Sissy’s Ice Cream and Coffee Shop, an outdoor pool and hot tub and the popular Stop Inn Tavern, known for its Siebkens Sandwich.

Enroll now for Summer Camps at Soccer City!

Resources: Henschel’s Indian Museum & Trout Farm: www.henschelsindianmuseumandtroutfarm. com Ice Age National Scenic Trail & Kettle Moraine Sate Forest: dnr.wi.gov Road America: www.roadamerica.com

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45

Our annual Family Favorites award campaign relies on nominations and votes from our readers to determine the best family-friendly, local businesses in the Oklahoma City metro. On the following pages, find the dozens of area businesses our readers voted to the top.

Family Favorites

The winner in each category is bolded at the top and the finalists are listed in alphabetical order. Congratulations to all!

After-School Activities Art Studio/Art Lessons

Dance Studio

Martial Arts Studio

Tie for first: Oklahoma City Museum of Art and Unpluggits Paint & Play

Studio J School of Dance

Dragon Kim’s Taekwondo & Fitness

Alisa Nelson Studio

Tippi Toes Dance OKC

Grand Master Won’s Taekwondo

Velocity Dance Center

Pride Mixed Martial Arts

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond

Gymnastics/Cheer Training Facility Metro Gymnastics Oklahoma Gold Gymnastics Twist & Shout

OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART

46 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

METRO GYMNASTICS

Music Instruction School of Rock Edmond Ginger’s Music Performing Arts Academy at Oklahoma City University

Sports League for Kids SoccerCity of Oklahoma City Edmond Soccer Club YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

Tutoring/Learning Assistance Center Kumon Mathnasium of North OKC Sylvan Learning Center

Camps Day Camp, Arts

Day Camp, Sports SoccerCity of Oklahoma City RIVERSPORT OKC

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

Oops, I Arted

Sleep-Away Camp

Camp DaKaNi - Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma, Inc.

YMCA Camp Classen

Day Camp, Multi-Activity

Kanakuk

Falls Creek Camps

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY Camp DaKaNi - Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma, Inc. KALEIDESCAPE at St. Mary’s Episcopal School

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY SCHOOL OF ROCK EDMOND

SPORTS LEAGUE FOR KIDS & DAY CAMPS

YMCA CAMP CLASSEN METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

47

Child Care

Education

Private School, Secondary

Child Care Center

Homeschool Resource Organization

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School

The Goddard School Western Primrose School of Edmond YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

Community Support Church for Families & Children Life.Church Crossings Community Church NORTHCHURCH

Nonprofit Organizations that Serves Families and Children

Epic Charter School Mardel OCHEC (Oklahoma Christian Home Educators Consociation)

Private School, Elementary

Heritage Hall Oklahoma Christian School

Public School System Edmond Public Schools Deer Creek Public Schools Yukon Public Schools

Heritage Hall Crossings Christian School St. Mary’s Episcopal School

Private School, Preschool Heritage Hall

Infant Crisis Services

The Goddard School Western

The CARE Center

St. Mary’s Episcopal School

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

TO LEARN • TO LEAD • TO SERVE

THE GODDARD SCHOOL WESTERN

EDMOND PUBLIC SCHOOL

48 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Health & Fitness

Dentist for Children/Family

Family Fitness Center

Dental Depot

Chiropractor

Edmond Pediatric & Teen Dentistry

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

Hackney Chiropractic

Royal Oak Family Dental

Morgan Chiropractic Clinic Yandell Chiropractic Wellness Clinic

Eye Care Provider Dean McGee Eye Institute Children’s Eye Care, PLLC

Mercy Fitness Center - Edmond I-35 Planet Fitness

Hospital Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City

The Vision Center

The Children’s Hospital at OU

Family Counselor/Counseling Business

OB/GYN

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center

Edmond Family Counseling

Michelle Brunnabend

Oklahoma Christian Counseling Center

Amanda Levine

Purposeful Play Family Enrichment Center

Karen Wilks

DR. MICHELLE BRUNNABEND

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

49

Orthodontist

Grocery Store to Find Healthy Food

Orthodontic Associates

Local Shopping

John Archer

Boutique/Gift/Book Stores

Alejandro Romero

Full Circle

Trader Joe’s

Best of Books

Uptown Grocery Co.

Jessica Wallenmeyer

One Faith Boutique

Toy Store

The Pediatric Group, PLLC

Consignment/Thrift Store

learning tree toys books & games

Kelly Stephens

Once Upon A Child

Cinnamon Bears

Goodwill Store and Donation Center

Green Bambino

Pediatrician/Family Doctor

Urgent Care Clinic Mercy Convenient Care, Edmond Memorial

Sprouts Farmers Market

Hope Center of Edmond

Access Medical Centers - Urgent Care Edmond Urgent Care

FULL CIRCLE

JESSICA WALLENMEYER OF EDMOND PEDIATRICS

LEARNING TREE TOYS, BOOKS AND GAMES

50 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Locally-Owned Restaurants Breakfast/Brunch

Ethnic Food Restaurant

Places to Eat Sweet Treats

Neighborhood JAM

Zorba’s Restaurant Bar

Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Stores

Cafe Kacao

Nunu’s Mediterranean Cafe

Pie Junkie

Jimmy’s Egg

Zarate’s Latin Mexican Grill

Roxy’s Ice Cream Social

Date night Restaurant

Family-Friendly Restaurant, Casual Dining

Restaurant for Pizza Night

The Garage

Empire Slice House

Redrock Canyon Grill The Jones Assembly The Melting Pot

Hideaway Pizza Louie’s

Hideaway Pizza The Wedge

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

51

Places/Events Free/Low-Cost Attraction for Family Fun

Museum for Children/Families

Place for Teen/Tween Fun

Myriad Botanical Gardens

Science Museum Oklahoma

Main Event Entertainment

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum

Brickopolis

Hafer Park (Edmond)

Oklahoma Hall of Fame/Gaylord-Pickens Museum

Frontier City

Indoor Fun/Amusement Venue

Outdoor Fun/Amusement Venue

Place to Explore Nature in Oklahoma

Science Museum Oklahoma

Oklahoma City Zoo

Martin Park Nature Center

Incredible Pizza Company

Frontier City

Oklahoma City Zoo

Main Event Entertainment

RIVERSPORT Rapids

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Local Place to Take Out of Town Visitors

Place for Fun with Toddlers

Place to Swim

Science Museum Oklahoma

Bricktown

Pelican Bay Aquatic Center

Metro Gymnastics

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

White Water Bay

Unpluggits Paint & Play

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

Edmond Historical Society & Museum

Oklahoma City Zoo

OKC ZOO

MARTIN PARK NATURE CENTER

BRICKTOWN

52

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Parties

Service Providers

Places for Pampering

Party Comes to You (entertainment)

Car Repair

Eden Salon & Spa

Extreme Animals

Christian Brothers Automotive

Three Graces Day Spa

Metric Motors

Forever After Parties Mad Science Central Oklahoma

Party Venue Metro Gymnastics Incredible Pizza Company Unpluggits Paint & Play

Scheer Automotive

Cottonwood Salon Spa

Service Providers | Realtor HomeTeam405

Family/Child Photographer

Ann Salyer Cox

FotoArts Photography

Guhl Family Realty

BBP Studios LLC - Brandon Burton Taylor Made Photography

Veterinarian Edmond East Animal Hospital Neel Veterinary Hospital Stoneridge Animal Hospital

FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

53

Resource Directory Index 54 Foster Care

57 Special Needs

Child Care

58 Camps

55 Parties

60 Family Services

56 Family Fun

61 Restaurants/Shopping

57 After-School Activities

Find more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories

Family Favorites

Curious about what is “NEW” with our advertising partners? www.metrofamilymagazine.com/newtometrofamily

hat about Thank “W You

my sister?”

Saint Francis Foster Parents Thank you for playing catch with me, taking me to the movies, and making me laugh with your silly jokes.

Thank you for listening to me.

Experience the Best Childhood Preparation for Social and Academic Success.

We offer

• Foreign Language Program • Full or Part Time Care • Before and/or After School Transportation • School Age Summer Program • STEAM and Chess Curriculum • Organic Produce • Gardening • Certified Safe Room • Indoor Gym and so much more!

The Goddard School, Western Ave. 17440 N. Western Avenue, Edmond, OK 73012

www.fostercare-ok.org | 877-263-1890 1-877-263-1890 www.fostercare-ok.org 54 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

405-348-4442, goddardschool.com

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2015

CHILD CARE

FOSTER CARE

“Will we be able to stay together?”

LEARN MORE Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this ad

BIRTHDAY PARTIES start at $350, including admission and meal for 8 people, plus reserved area!

With Frontier City’s PICNIC IN THE PARK or White Water Bay’s PATIO PARTY, groups of 35 or more can enjoy admission, meal, and reserved area!

Special rates available for groups of 15 people or more, with savings of 50% off general admission!

Little League, Daycare, Family Reunions, and more!

Let us plan your next event for a day you won’t forget!

Contact group sales for more information!

405-478-2140 x214 or groupsales@frontiercity.com

(405) 693-1937 fo reve raae r p a r r e s . co m

421 NW 10th • 405.609.3302 dustbowlok.com

IT’S COOL TO

PARTY AT THE POOL! Two hours of private access to Goldfish Swim School Invitations & envelopes Balloons, tropical decorations & centerpieces Cupcakes & beverages for the children

EDMOND | 405.696.7500 www.goldfishswimschool.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

55

PARTY GUIDE

Birthday Parties & Group Gatherings

FAMILY FUN

JUST ABOUT

ANYTHING can happen at the

Oklahoma History Center!

Celebrating our 10th anniversary “Serving Paint Since ’08”

Open Paint & Play All Day Indoor Playground Paint & Take Ceramics Clay Workshops Grown-ups paint nights

Thank you for voting us a Family Favorite!

Best Art Studio/Art Lessons Best Parties/Party Venue Best Place to Have Fun with Toddlers

405-340-PLUG • www.unpluggits.com

ARCADIA LAKE’S

KIDS FISHING DERBY SAT. JUNE 9, 2018 7:30 A.M.– NOON SPRING CREEK PARK KIDS AGES 5–15 FREE EVENT Registration from 7:30–9 a.m., fishing at 8 a.m. and final weighin at 11 a.m. Concessions and worms will be for sale at the event site. Parents must accompany children.

216-7471

LEARN MORE Go to www.Reveel.it and snap a photo

(405) 522-0765 www.okhistory.org 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr./OKC

56 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

FAMILY FUN

Perfect For Players 6 Yrs & Up

y Dodge Cit

L L A B T N PAI 405-373-3745

Open Year Round

Groups & Walk-ons Welcome 16425 NW 150th, Piedmont

okcpaintball.com

Play • Learn • Thrive Benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities® Oklahoma City

SATURDAY, JUNE 2

SPECIAL NEEDS

New Low Impact

8 A.M. REGISTRATION/ACTIVITIES BEGIN 8:30 A.M. OPENING CEREMONIES/THE WALK 10:45 A.M. GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY

AT DELL OKC CAMPUS 3501 SW 15TH STREET OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73108

OUR ACTIVITIES MUSIC, INFLATABLES, ARTS & CRAFTS,YARD GAMES, STORY TIME, FACE PAINTING, & MORE

Services Include: Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy & Speech-Language Therapy for Children of All Ages & Abilities In-network providers for the following insurance companies: BC/BS Tricare United Healthcare Health Choice Soonercare Oklahoma Health Network

(405) 840-1686

EAM JOIN OUR T

RATION! FREE REGIST C.org OK ds WalkforKi

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

KEEPING FAMILIES CLOSE® RMHC-OKC.ORG

The app is available for download on both Apple and Android systems (search “metrofamily”).

#OKCFamilyFun!

metrofamilymagazine.com/app

Two locations to serve you

14715 Bristol Park Blvd., Edmond 5701 SE 74th St., OKC

The Dance Department AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Download our app today and you’ll have easy access to our best family fun information.

www.SensationalKidsOKC.com

FREE TRIAL CLASS

Tap  Jazz  Ballet Modern  HipHop  Adult Tap Classes for all ages.

Please call for more information. thedancedepartment@gmail.com www.thedancedepartmentokc.com

732-7722

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

57

CAMPS

That's right, your girl doesn't have to be a current Girl Scout to join in on the camping adventure this summer!

At Girl Scout summer camp you will: • Have fun • Learn cool new things • Explore the great outdoors • Make awesome new friends • And SO much more!

REGISTER TODAY!

1.800.698.0022

WWW.GIRLSGOCAMP.ORG

Horse Camp Camp Cadence 2018

Adventure Camp Three to six day Resident Adventure Camps for ages 5 to 18.

Three day McFadden Kids Day Camps for ages 5 to 9.

Two week Kayak Camp for those entering 9th-12th grades Leadership Development Institute for those entering 9th-12th grades

Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, camping, archery, zip line, ropes course and more...

Full Day Camps $395/per week June 4 - June 8 June 18 - June 22 June 25 - June 29 July 16 - July 20 July 23 - July 27 Half Day Camps $245/per week May 28 - June 1 June 11 - June 15 July 9 - July 13 July 30 - Aug 3 Aug 6 - Aug 10

New for 2018!

Overnight Camp!

Overnight Camps $995/per week June 10 - June 16 July 29 - Aug 4

Ginger’s Music

Summer Camp June 11-15th Ages 0 - 8 yrs

Enjoy music and movement through • Glow in the dark camping fun • Beach outside water play • Jungle Jammin’ • Barnyard Fun • Bubble Dancing Voted Best Music Instruction

722-2379 GingersMusic.com

Beginners are our Specialty

Enroll n for summow e and fall r Welcoming Environment Live Stream Monitors to view your child's progress 24/7 Easy Online Enrollment Hassle Free Recital

Thank you for voting us one of the best dance studios!

LEARN ABOUT ADVENTURE CAMP Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this ad

Classes for ages 2 and up

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop EXPLORE THE WORLD OF HORSES Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this ad

CADENCE EQUESTRIAN Located along the west shores of Kaw Lake (near Ponca City)

580-762-9955 • campmcfadden.com

58 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Enroll online at: www.cadenceequestrian.com

11122 N Rockwell Ave Ste A-11 OKC

(405) 348-7469

admin@oklahomacitydancestudio.com

405-721-8807

www.oklahomacitydancestudio.com

for Summer Camps!

#1 RANKED CHEERLEADING & TUMBLING GYM IN OKLAHOMA

3 x USASF World Champs! • 2 x Summit Champs!

ENROLL NOW FOR 2018 Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this ad • 23 x NCA National Champs! • 16 x National and 68 x State Power tumbling Champs!

CLASSES & TEAMS - AGE 4 & UP ALL LEVELS Competitive & Non-Competitive Cheer & Tumbling • Birthday Parties • Cheer and Tumble Clinics & Camps

Edmond 405-775-9491 • Muskogee 918- 913-7833 Norman 405- 573-9974 • Tulsa 918-622-58673

Family Favorites

At Territorial Fun Day Camp, ages 6-11 will have fun exploring Oklahoma history through games, crafts and other activities.

June 11-15, 9am to 3pm $175 (before/after care available for extra fee; siblings discount available)

ENROLL TODAY LEARN MORE ABOUT CAMP DAKANI Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this ad

405-235-4058 mgregg@harnhomestead.com 1721 N. Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City

www.harnhomestead.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

59

CAMPS

ENROLL NOW

FAMILY SERVICES

Check out our 223 five-star reviews on our Facebook page.

Find Your Path to Be er Community based counseling for individuals, couples, families and groups based on YOUR income. $25 for an intake appointment and evening hours are available. Come find out how affordable and convenient counseling can be!

Family Favorites

Voted Best Family Counselor/ Counseling Business

405.341.3554 edmondfamily.org 1251 N. Broadway, Suite C, Edmond, OK 73034

WATCH VIDEOS TO LEARN MORE Go to www.Reveel.it and snap a photo

Contact us to find out about

Thank You for Voting Us

Your Favorite Orthodontist!

Group classes • Private classes • Boarding school K-9 University

405-231-4335

9217 NW Expressway, OKC facebook.com/MyK9U Twitter: @K9University YouTube: K9University www.myk9u.com

June 23th!

Don’t miss the family fun!

Photography @AliciaRamboPhotography

Kids’ Parties

Corporate Events Dances

405.888.0109

Details & tickets at

metrofamilymagazine.com/geek 60 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

Your guests need you.

Let us capture your memories.

RESTAURANT AND SHOPPING

SELL WHAT THEY’VE OUTGROWN FOR CASH TODAY. SAVE BIG WITH OUR EVERYDAY LOW PRICES!

13801 N. PENNSYLVANIA AVE, N. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73134 405-286-3114 | ONCEUPONACHILDOKCNORTH.COM

Thank you for voting us “Best Toy Store” 4 years in a row!

Family Favorites Thank you for naming us one of the best kid-friendly book stores in the metro!

Join us each Saturday for story time, 10:15am!

birth to teens

7638 N. Western, OKC

405-848-1415

Full Circle Bookstore 1900 NW Expressway, OKC 405.842.2900 • fullcirclebooks.com

Mark your calendar for

June 23rd!

Hands-on science fun for everyone! metrofamilymagazine.com/geek METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

61

Pho Bulous

3409 S. Broadway, Edmond

Kid Review Samuel Roldán Age 11 What made the experience stand out?

Pho isn’t the same as other Asian foods. It’s a different experience because the soup is a whole meal. I love Japanese noodles but they aren’t the same as Vietnamese noodles. Both are good but they’re not identical. I like the chicken bowl but my favorite has steak.

What was the best part?

The flavor is really rich. The bowl is huge! Even the small bowl is too large for me to finish. The best part is that it comes with bean sprouts.

You can use chopsticks but you don’t have to if you feel awkward and want a fork to help with the noodles.

Would this venue be enjoyed by your siblings? Why or why not?

It’s one of my brothers’ favorite places to eat, especially on rainy days but even when it’s hot. No one at our house says no to pho. They are 3 and 6 and they can split one order. They like the big soup spoons.

matcha flavor. I don’t like green tea but maybe it’s not so bitter in ice cream.

Does anything you saw match up with what you have seen somewhere else before?

I’ve had other kinds of soup and noodles with vegetables but there’s just something about pho that I love.

It’s very fresh and not like the same kid foods. There’s no peanut butter or grilled cheese on the menu, which is a relief. No one feels disappointed when my parents say we’re going there.

What do you think you’ll remember most about Pho Bulous?

I’ll remember that the basil I took home and put in a cup of water grew roots! I can have my own basil plant from getting it to sprout. I’ll think about eating more noodles when I see it and that my family has a happy place there to enjoy a meal together.

What was the worst part?

Get more tips for exploring Oklahoma City with your kids at our Weekend Warrior blog, www.metrofamilymagazine.com/WeekendWarrior

The broth is very hot. You have to be careful not to spill it. Sometimes, my Mom puts ice cubes in it for my brothers so they can eat faster.

Will other kids like eating pho?

Sure! The restaurant has other foods like fried rice and vermicelli but I go for the pho. It’s fun to try the plants it comes with, which are the bean sprouts, sliced limes and fresh basil, and sriracha and hoisin sauce, which is made of oysters. I have to warn other kids about the sriracha because it’s definitely spicy. That red is like saying caution; it’s made from hot peppers.

62 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY 2018

If you could do this again, knowing what you know now about the restaurant, what would you do differently?

Everything there is spot-on so I can’t really say I would order different food. I would like to try some of the ice cream for dessert, especially the

NORMA HOWARD-CHICKASAW

BRYAN WAYTULA-CHEROKEE

RAY GARCIA PUEBLO

LESLIE DEER-MUSCOGEE

YONAVEA HAWKINS-CADDO

5TH ANNUAL

BENJAMIN HARJO JR.-ABSENTEE SHAWNEE

MARCELLA YEPA-CHICKASAW

LIVE MUSIC

NATIVE DANCING

A FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT

N AT I V E A M E R I C A N A RT M A R K E T DANIEL WORCESTERCHICKASAW

It’s free, open to the public and offers activities for all ages!

Featuring premier Native artists from across the country.

SAT U R DAY • M AY 26 • 1 0 AM - 6 PM W E S T M U S KO G E E A V E N U E , S U L P H U R , O K L A H O M A • 5 8 0 -2 7 2 - 5 5 2 0

BILL ANOATUBBY GOVERNOR

Saturday • June 9th • 8am–1 2pm Festival Market Place — FREE EVENT — Farm-Friendly Kids Activities Free Shopping Bags for Kids Cooking Demos

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