MetroFamily Magazine July 2019

2019-2020

Our annual guide to resources every OKC area parent needs

The Chickasaw Nation presents

Join us at 10:30 a.m. every Thursday from Memorial Day to Labor Day for FREE FAMILY FUN including daily themes, story time, featured movie, craft creation, and FUN summer activities!

July 4

11

Independence Day

18 Safari Day

Superhero Day

25 Salute the Troops Day

Summer Thursdays are made possible by The Chickasaw Nation and the Inasmuch Foundation

LEARN MORE

@OklahomaHoF

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

hopeful precious confident Your blessed life is our life’s work. excited joyful complete

We’d like to thank the readers of MetroFamily magazine for choosing Mercy Hospital, its birthing center, and Mercy OB/GYN Michelle Brunnabend, DO, as 2019 “Family Favorites.”

And if you have baby preparations underway, we invite you to download our helpful “Baby on the Way” Guide at

mercy.net/MetroFamily Your life is our life’s work.

Your life is our life’s work.

Features 6 Get the Most from MetroFamily Discover all the ways you can find the best local resources 8 Local Moms Dish on Central OKC Districts Readers share favorite finds in top-voted metro locales

21 After-School Activities

28 Camps

32 Child Care

36 Education

40 Health & Fitness

46 Local Shopping

54 Places

66 Pregnancy & Baby Resources

12 The Power of Play Adopt an attitude of playfulness to foster parentchild relationships 16 50 Things to Do Under $5 Fill your family calendar with frugal fun 68 Weekend Wonders Seek adventure (or respite) on 3 local road trips 72 Oklahoma’s Family-Friendly Festivals Explore charming celebrations in every corner of the state 76 Grandparent Guide to OKC Family Fun Ideas for making meaningful metro memories with grands

Everything Guide Listings 21 After-School Activities 28 Camps 32 Child Care 34 Community Support 36 Education 40 Health & Fitness 46 Local Shopping 49 Restaurants 52 Parties 54 Places 60 Service Providers 64 Special Needs 66 Pregnancy & Baby Resources

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Starting this month, MetroFamily has a new editor.

You have read Erin Page’s stories for many years and now she is taking on a new role with us. Pictured below are Erin, her husband Jordan and their three kids, Addie, 7, Hutch, 5 and Weston, 3. Welcome, Erin!

MetroFamily Magazine was recently honored with 8 editorial and design awards from Parenting Media Association, including four gold awards.

Publisher

Sarah Taylor

Managing Editor Erin Page

Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo

Contributing Writer Deb Stanaland

Contributing Photographer Jessica Misun

Art Director Stacy Noakes

WESTON, 3, JORDAN, ADDIE, 7, ERIN PAGE, HUTCH, 5. PHOTO BY 3 BLESSINGS PHOTOGRAPHY

Marketing Director Callie Collins

Sales

Athena Delce, Dana Price

Project Manager Jessica Misun

Office/Distribution Kathy Alberty

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 2019 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

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

W

here do you receive affirmation as you navigate both the challenges and beauty of parenthood? Other than my husband and parents, for me it’s been local moms, in person, via social media and through this magazine, who have provided the encouragement and connection to resources that have sustained me in the trenches of motherhood. Sometimes finding the counseling service that fits or the after-school activity that lights up your child’s eyes can feel akin to winning the lottery.

metro, with Dr. Norka Malberg’s guidance on adopting a playful attitude on page 12 as a backdrop. I’ll admit, in the busy and mundane of the every day, I’m the first to forget how to play (just ask my three kids). I know they relish stretching their imaginations and instructing me how to perform whatever playtime role I’ve been assigned, but I didn’t fully comprehend how crucial play is to our relationships with our kids and their development until a recent conversation with the certified child psychotherapist.

Our annual Everything Guide is chock full of resources and ideas for local family fun, many nominated by and voted upon by you our readers in our annual Family Favorites Awards. Find pediatricians, therapy services, local shopping, community organizations, schools, after-school activities and much more. You’ll want to keep this issue all year!

Per Malberg, don’t fret about forcing more play sessions in your day, rather focus on how your family best plays together, then find the resources to match here.

From family fun ideas for $5 or less to weekend road trips, we’ve compiled ideas for every season of your family calendar. In addition, don’t miss the inside scoop from five local families on things to do, see and eat in your top-voted central OKC districts.

Rather than add more to your to-do list, we hope this guide will help your family explore and enjoy the many resources in the

Enjoy!

Erin Page Editor

PS: The MetroFamily team sincerely thanks Hannah Schmitt, our editor for the last 4 years, for her dedication to local parents, her leadership and expertise and for taking MetroFamily to the next level. Best wishes to Hannah and her family!

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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Get the Most from MetroFamily

Our primary goal at MetroFamily is to make life easier for local parents. We strive to provide the most relevant, reliable information to have fun as a family and help you find the services, parenting information and inspiration to best serve your children.

We know parents have varied preferences when it comes to receiving and seeking information, so we work to meet those needs across many platforms. Join us in the ways that best suit you!

Magazine Sometimes you just need to cozy up with a print magazine, without pop-up distractions. For over 20 years, our awardwinning magazine has been the staple for parents to find local family fun, places to travel and parenting resources. Find it at metro libraries, YMCA branches, most Jimmy’s Egg restaurants, Whole Foods Market and over 400 other locations.

Find a handy list of more public places to pick up the magazine near you at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/find-a-copy.

Website Rely on our website to keep you up to speed about all that is happening in the metro area. Popular sections of our website are: • Our seasonal lists. Find lists of festivals, school break camps, ways to find fun indoors, places to get wet when it’s hot and so much more! The easiest way to locate seasonal lists is to add the season name (summer, fall, winter, spring) after our URL, like this: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/summer.

• Resources. Every parent knows with kids comes the need for resources—lots of resources! From picking a birthing center to finding the right tutor, we’ve got you covered.

Check out all the directory listings and resources at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/family-resources.

• Contests. Weekend trips, event tickets and packages of products and services are some of the great prizes we offer.

Enter often!

• Coupons and other ways to save each month. Find valuable coupons from our advertising partners and other ways to save money, including a few pages dedicated to “free” events and attractions and local restaurant discounts.

• Calendar. Not all of the events being held for children and families make it into our print publication. We include a larger number of events online, so check it daily for things to do.

• Weekend Picks. No need to spend time researching all the options for weekend fun. Just go to our handy “Top 10” list found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/weekend-picks, or subscribe to our e-newsletters and have Weekend Picks sent directly to your inbox!

• Volunteer List. Looking for ways to give back as a family? Check out our popular guide here: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/volunteer.

• Looking for all the latest articles from us? Head to #okcfamilynews on our site’s top navigation bar.

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E-newsletters Subscribe to our e-newsletters to get the Top Picks and Weekend Picks e-newsletters sent to you each Tuesday and Thursday plus other offers from our advertising partners. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe-enews

Social media

Events

Follow and interact with us and other readers on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Also, join in the conversation of our special group pages on Facebook, divided by ages and stages. Search for them as follows:

NEW in 2019: The Acton Children’s Business Fair, Sept. 8, hosted in conjunction with Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, provides the backdrop for kid entrepreneurs to sell their products and services to the public. Kids ages 6 to 14 are encouraged to submit applications for this curated show. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cbf

• Ages & Stages - babies-preschoolers • Ages & Stages - elementary • Ages & Stages - tweens/teens

App

Yes, MetroFamily has a FREE app for either Apple or Android devices. Download it today to have easy access to all our best web content. Your favorite pages are one click away! Learn more at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/app.

Cover Kids Search, Oct. 13, is our annual event offering hands-on fun for all families, as well as our Cover Kid selection process for the following year. Cover Kid contestant entries are accepted starting in early August, and the event at Myriad Botanical Gardens includes each contestant being professionally photographed. www.metrofamilymagazine. com/coverkidssearch Designed for expectant parents and those with young children, Bump, Baby & More, Feb. 22, 2020, is an event for all things baby.

Meet local service providers, shop

and enjoy informative workshops. Held at Cole Community Center in NW OKC. www.bumpbabyandmore.com Kids Fest, March 28, celebrates every kind of family by bringing together the best of local parenting into one venue. This family fun event features dozens of booths offering engaging and educational activities for kids, including face painting, roaming characters, a climbing wall, door prizes and live music. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kidsfest Geekapalooza: A STEAM Festival for Kids, held in June and hosted in conjunction with Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, encourages kids to learn about science, technology, engineering, art and math through a variety of hands-on activities.

Kid-friendly workshops about subjects like robotics, coding and geosciences are taught by market leaders. www. metrofamilymagazine.com/geekapalooza

No matter how (or how many ways) you get your information from MetroFamily, we hope the information we provide serves to delight, inform and affirm your family life. Let us know how we’re doing and how we can better serve you by emailing info@metrofamilymagazine.com.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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LOCAL MOMS DISH ON CENTRAL OKC DISTRICTS Four central OKC districts rose to the top in our annual reader-voted Family Favorites Awards. Here, local moms share their families’ favorite features in Bricktown, Midtown, the Plaza District and Paseo District. An added bonus from our staff picks, discover the delights of a day-trip to El Reno.

BY ERIN PAGE, PHOTOS PROVIDED

BRICKTOWN

Many Thanks

Bricktown is how we fell in love with Oklahoma City years before we moved here in 2018, and the district provides a great opportunity for our family to create lasting memories. Our most recent visit was one of our favorites.

As usual, there was a debate on where to eat lunch but the original Bricktown Brewery won. We walked the canal after lunch and landed at Brickopolis where

the girls played a round of putt-putt golf and climbed the rock wall. We jumped on the water taxi for a quick tour on the canal before ending our trip, the way we do every time, at Marble Slab Creamery.

Britanie Ramirez and husband Adrian are parents of Leila (13), Landyn (12) and Liviana (11), as well as foster parents.

Britanie is director of Whiz Kids.

for voting us the past 7 years:

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

Enroll today!

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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

LEILA, LANDYN AND LIVIANA AT BRICKOPOLIS

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Family Favorites

achievement

just add water.

THE SCHMIDT FAMILY AT COMMONPLACE BOOKS IN MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN Midtown is home to us because we enjoy the active culture and strong sense of community we feel here. A nice Saturday for our family could include a bike ride to Commonplace Books for story time, coffee and gourmet donuts or riding our bikes to Bleu Garten, playing outdoor games and eating dinner from a food truck.

The downtown library or Myriad Gardens splash park and carousel are a streetcar ride away, and we enjoy stopping at Capitals Ice Cream or Elemental Coffee on the way home.

One month of progress in just one week.

Stephanie Schmidt and husband Lance are parents of Solomon (9), Theo (6) and Stella (5). Stephanie is a stay-athome mom.

Our Jump Start Clinics are a quick and easy way to get your kids swim ready or to advance to the next level, while learning how to be safer in and around the water.

PLAZA DISTRICT

WHAT? 5 CONSECUTIVE 30-MINUTE LESSONS, SAME TIME, SAME INSTRUCTOR, MONDAY - FRIDAY

Centered around NW 16th Street, offbeat arts, culture and local shopping come together for a memorable day of family fun in the Plaza District. We first visited in October for the Magic Lantern Festival and came back for a show at Lyric Theatre in January. That made for a fun afternoon complete with pie slices at Pie Junkie and a nice walk around cute shops with merchandise that isn’t available anywhere else.

My husband is a Spanish teacher from Costa Rica and we love a lot of the decor and handcrafted items featured in Folk.Life. We enjoy brunch or lunch in Aurora’s vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, where the kids’ menu is more imaginative than just mac ‘n cheese.

Families can play tourist around the Plaza District on a zero-spend budget. Window shop, check out the area’s famed murals and chat with local artists at pottery studios and art galleries.

GABRIEL IN THE PLAZA DISTRICT

Callie Collins and husband Mario are parents of Samuel (12), Isaac (7), Gabriel (4) and Jacob-Peter (1). Callie is MetroFamily’s marketing director and writer of our Weekend Warrior blog.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

WHEN? WEEKLY THROUGH AUGUST 9, 2019 COST? $111.25/MEMBERS, $138.35/NON-MEMBERS

Buy two Jump Start Clinics, get one FREE! (Exp. 7/31/19)

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EDMOND | 405.696.7500 10 NW 146th St. | Edmond, OK 73013 goldfishswimschool.com |

PASEO A trip to the Paseo Arts District is always a unique experience for our family. Galleries with ever-changing art and the diverse mix of restaurants keep us coming back to this historic area with our two boys.

OSO Paseo and Red Rooster are two of our new favorite dining spots, both offering ridiculously good food, including gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly entrees. Holey Rollers is a must when we get a craving for delicious donuts that boast creative flavors.

The Paseo Arts Festival is held every Memorial Day weekend and is the perfect opportunity to shop and let the kids create their own art in the heart of this vibrant community.

Debbie Murnan and husband Patrick are parents of Mason (7) and Aiden (6). Debbie is an optometrist with Variety Care.

MASON AND AIDEN IN THE PASEO ARTS DISTRICT

MORE IN CENTRAL OKC Extend your central OKC explorations further with visits to other notable districts, like Deep Deuce, known historically for jazz music and hosting pop-up concerts the last Saturday of the month spring through fall. Homemade cake by the slice, fluffy marshmallows and shaved ice hit the spot on the patio at Katybug’s in Automobile Alley, also home to Factory Obscura, inspiring wonder among all ages with immersive art experiences. Ignite adventurous spirits with zip lining, tower climbing, kayaking, paddle boarding and rapids riding in the Boathouse District.

Stomp your feet to family-friendly Saturday night shows at the Rodeo Opry in Stockyards City, where you can also shop for Western wear or enjoy a hearty breakfast or steak dinner at Cattleman’s Steakhouse.

Expand taste buds in the flavorful Asian District by shopping for Asian fare at Super Cao Nguyen Supermarket, sampling Vietnamese food like Pho, Guatemalan-style food at Cafe Kacao or vegetarian fare at The Red Cup.

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BOATHOUSE DISTRICT

SUMMER

Famil y

FUN!

THE PHILLIPS FAMILY AT THEIR HOME IN EL RENO. PHOTO BY TAMARA SEARS

Short drive for small-town fun Families seeking a quick getaway or day trip outside central OKC should look no farther than El Reno, just 30 minutes west of the metro. In the aftermath of the devastating May 2019 tornadoes, the community’s resilience and commitment to warm hospitality and small-town charm have never been more apparent.

Y DAY from 4pm to CLOSE EVER

Water Park Admission Only

EL RENO We love the walking trails at Lake El Reno, where the kids climb on the giant chair and play on the playground.

Downtown we love to shop at Allie’s Baking Boutique, visit Iron Tree Coffee and play at the little splash pad in the summer.

El Reno’s bowling alley is very kid friendly, and the Centre Theatre has flashback movies once a month where they show great old movies for kids for only $1! Visit a pirate ship park, the Canadian County Historical Museum

where you can ride an old-fashioned trolley and historic Ft. Reno.

Our favorite restaurants are Sid’s Diner for fried onion burgers and milkshakes, Pecina’s and Troncoso’s for Mexican food, Our Glass where mom and dad can have a glass of wine and we even have a sushi bar (my son’s favorite). Come visit!

Jill Phillips and husband Justin are parents of Graham (8) and Caroline (6) and live in El Reno. Jill is a partner and agent with Farmers Insurance.

15

$

FRENZY ON TUESDAYS

Daily Water Park Admission Tickets are just $15 per person on Tuesdays!

THE PHILLIPS FAMILY AT THEIR HOME IN EL RENO. PHOTO BY TAMARA SEARS

$

13 THURSDAYS

Daily Water Park Admission Tickets are just $13 per person on Thursdays!

BEAT THE HEAT INDOORS, TOO!

ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE Arcade • Bumper Cars • Laser Tag • Kidz Zone

PLUS NEW!

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(405) 321-7275 •

fit

3300 MARKET PL NORMAN, OK

I The

POWER of

Play I

L

How play and playfulness can strengthen family bonds and result in happier, healthier children

BY ERIN PAGE

Play-based learning may sound like an oxymoron, but certified child psychotherapist Dr. Norka Malberg advocates that without the benefit of play, children don’t have the building blocks upon which they can learn to read, solve math problems or understand emotion. Malberg, who practices in New Haven, Connecticut, and serves as assistant clinical professor at the Yale Child Study Center, recently presented her findings on how play and playfulness impact child development and relationships to Oklahoma City-area parents and caregivers.

“Being creative comes before learning,” said Malberg, who has 25 years’ experience in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis as a clinician, researcher and trainer of other professionals.

“Play is not only important to cognitive development, it teaches how to make a sequence, use the imagination and manage emotions.”

As explicit academic instruction and testing expands into lower grade levels, play has taken a backseat in many schools.

Without the developmental foundation gained through play, kids can face deficits in learning. Malberg reports that in Scandinavian countries, kids don’t learn to read or write until ages 5 or 6, but those same kids test better in high school than American students.

According to a recent clinical report by the American Academy of Pediatrics, cultural shifts are also to blame, including

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less parental engagement, often due to work obligations, fewer safe places to play and more digital distractions.

The Canadian footwear and apparel manufacturer Kamik found in a 2018 survey that American kids today spend 35 percent less time playing outdoors than their parents did. Another factor in the decline of free play is the social pressure to keep kids occupied with extracurricular activities, with the average American child between ages 3 and 12 engaged in five structured activities a week.

A general lack of play, or play only through screens, has contributed to what Malberg calls an epidemic of over diagnosing and overmedicating children.

“We’re seeing more kids that don’t know how to manage their emotions,” said Malberg. “We learn about who we are through play and playfulness. It’s investing in emotionally healthy kids.”

Play is crucial to the parent-child relationship. When parents and caretakers engage in play or exhibit an attitude of playfulness, the attachment system relaxes, building stronger connections. When parents approach children with a playful spirit, they are better able to imagine what the child is thinking or feeling and more apt to convey flexibility and a willingness to work with the child’s varied temperaments.

“Play is the best way to get to know each other,” said Malberg. “This is how kids get to know who they are, and parents want to be a part of that.”

Playfulness incites curiosity and openness and serves to calm emotions, particularly helpful when a relationship faces challenges, whether a toddler temper tantrum or a teen angry about curfew. Though play comes naturally to most kids, parents can be a different story.

For parents for whom Lego-building or Barbie-playing is akin to torture, Malberg reassures that play is not actually about what you do. Rather than stressing about how to cram playtime sessions into an already jampacked day, Malberg urges parents to think about adopting an attitude of playfulness in their homes.

“Everybody wants to focus on the tangible, and this is not about that,” said Malberg.

“People are busy, but there are very different ways to integrate playfulness. Play is an attitude.”

Drawing on her Connecticut practice, extensive research and service on the Yale Child Study Center, among various other instructional positions, Malberg shares tips for families to integrate play into their everyday lives.

Balance after-school activities with play Malberg believes after-school activities are inherently good. The problem often arises from the parents who can become harried rushing kids to various activities around town. Kids pick up on the parents’ stress and arrive to their activity stressed themselves, defeating the purpose of the activity’s benefits.

“It’s important that children have afterschool activities, but it’s more important that they have a quick game of Jenga and a laugh with their parents,” said Malberg.

When chauffeuring kids to activities, parents can decrease stress levels and model playfulness by playing games. Count the number of red cars, play I Spy or turn up the music and sing together. Even in the chaos, moments of mutual enjoyment and play can strengthen relationships.

Intersperse homework with games Homework time is stressful for parents and kids alike. By building in games or moments of relaxation and laughter, minds can be calmed and emotions leveled. Malberg encourages parents to set a timer, saying to the child: “Let’s work on homework for 15 minutes, then we’ll take a break before getting back to it.” Use the break to do something creative together; one of Malberg’s favorite games is called Squiggle, where the parent makes a line or squiggle on a piece of paper and the child creates a drawing incorporating it.

Coloring or playing a board game can be calming as well.

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September 7 • 10:00 a.m. – Noon

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Program support provided by the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation

This strategy also works when experiencing conflict with a child, or another adult.

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“Build in five minutes of laughter or relaxation in what tends to be something stressful,” said Malberg.

Give kids some control Particularly for young children, allowing them control over playtime with parents can be empowering. If a child experiences a difficult or scary situation, they use play to manage their feelings.

“If a child felt a teacher was mean or scary, they become the mean teacher [in play] so they feel more in control,” said Malberg.

“When it comes to symbolic play, just let them be because they are usually trying to tell something.”

When kids don’t want to follow the rules of a board or card game, Malberg says it’s OK to follow their lead.

“Parents worry about socializing their kids, that if they don’t teach the rules and they go to someone’s house and break the rules they will get in trouble,” said Malberg.

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The parent and child can acknowledge together that they are playing by the child’s rules, breaking the game rules together.

“You’re acknowledging with the child that it’s OK for them to do that with you,” said Malberg.

When it comes to aggressive play, Malberg says no matter how much parents control screen time or kids’ experiences, they can and will, for example, make pretend guns out of anything. Malberg reminds parents that when kids play aggressively, they typically don’t have intent behind their actions. As kids become more risk-taking, they use play to act out scenarios or try out behaviors.

“We have become too scared of children’s aggression, so we punish and try to control,” said Malberg, who is appalled at the rising trend of expelling young children from school for aggressive behavior. “They are just getting their footing in the world and you are telling them the world can’t handle them.”

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Malberg worked with a young child continually getting in trouble at school for pretending to shoot his teacher with his finger. By explaining to the child that his actions make grownups scared and subsequently very strict with him, he learned to take his teacher’s perspective into account when he feels the urge to play aggressively.

“His perspective is he’s just playing but now he knows that the teacher gets worried and scared,” said Malberg. “He understands there is something behind the behavior, there is emotion.”

Minimize screen time Rather than a rule of thumb about how much screen time is appropriate, Malberg asks parents to consider why a child is engaged in screens, particularly when they spend more time in front of the TV, phone or computer.

Sometimes a child may want to momentarily disconnect after coming home from a hard day at school, but increasing screen time can also be an indicator of larger issues, like learning challenges or bullying.

“Ask yourself why before you try to fix it,” said Malberg. “We jump into fixing not necessarily knowing what we need to.”

As technology and screen time increase for all of society, Malberg says humans don’t understand the full impact on our capacity to communicate, tolerate frustration, manage emotions and consider others’ feelings.

In her more than two decades in practice, she’s witnessed an increasing health impact, including higher anxiety levels in parents and children.

Midtown OKC

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Malberg believes technology can offer wonderful benefits to kids and families as long as they aren’t used as a substitute for the parent-child connection. When her two boys were teens, the whole family put their phones in a basket at the door when they arrived home. Phones stayed in the basket for at least several hours, especially through dinnertime, so they could focus on connecting with one another. Friends, family and colleagues were informed of their house rules, too, so they would understand why calls or texts might go unanswered.

Adopting an attitude of playfulness “It’s pervasive in terms of the expectations we have of ourselves and our kids,” says Malberg of the increasing pressure parents feel in today’s world. “And that impacts the way we are with our kids.”

But as her clients and other families have intentionally incorporated an attitude of playfulness, Malberg notes benefits like less conflict, easier transitions, better problem solving, a mindset of kindness and relationship quality improvement.

“There is so much value in mutual enjoyment,” said Malberg. “Being playful can help every relationship you have.”

Editor’s note: Dr. Norka Malberg was a featured speaker during the Outreach Conference of the Oklahoma Society for Psychoanalytic Studies (www.osps.info), held recently at OU Health Sciences Center.

The goal of the educational conference is to provide parents and caregivers practical tools regarding children and youth development, behavior and wellness.

Jump Into a Great Home!

Live Music, Food Trucks, Family Activities & More!

The Thursday Night Before Labor Day Not only does this festival reflect Yukon and its country music roots; it is a step back in time to when things were much simpler, with one of the state’s biggest block parties right on the Mother Road: Route 66.

Come to Yukon. Experience the BEST!

cityofyukonokgov @cityofyukonok

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@cityofyukonokgov

Visit us online! yukonok.gov/RocktheRoute

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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50

things to do under

As parents know all too well, entertaining kids can get expensive. But Oklahoma City offers plenty of frugal fun! We’ve got you covered with this list of 50 exciting ideas for family fun, all under $5 and many totally free! Take advantage of these inexpensive events and activities happening throughout the year. Find a similar list for every season, updated with the latest information at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cost-savingentertainment-in-okc.

BY LINDSAY CUOMO

1. Cheer on some of Oklahoma’s top bike riders as they race around an extremely fast, flat track at the FREE Wheeler Criterium, held Tuesdays 5:30-8 p.m., March through August, in the Wheeler District.

2. The Bricktown Beach is back this summer! Stop in for relaxation in the sand or friendly competition with outdoor games and a sand volleyball court. Located on the Third Base Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

3. Outdoor summer movies and concerts are offered free at many local parks. Spend a few bucks on concessions and you have a perfect summer outing! Find outdoor entertainment near you at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/summer-outdoor-moviesconcerts.

4. Explore and celebrate the plant world with Myriad Gardens’ Weekly Walk-ups. Activities vary by each day’s theme, and a $2 donation is requested. Weekdays, 10 a.m.-noon, June through Aug. 9.

5. Paint and play for less after 5 p.m. on weekdays at Unpluggits in Edmond. Admission is $5 after 5 p.m., Tuesday - Thursday, June through Aug. 8.

6. Take a tour of public art! The OKC metro has some incredible, must-see murals scattered throughout town, and they don’t cost a dime to visit. Add our recommendations to your list: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/must-see-murals-in-okc.

7. Go old school with a classic flick at Harkin’s Tuesday Night Classics. Admission is $5, and movies include the musical drama “Footloose,” the 80s kids classic “The Goonies” and the popular comedy “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Tuesdays, 7 p.m.

TOP: WHEELER CRITERIUM IN THE WHEELER DISTRICT; BOTTOM: BRICKTOWN BEACH OUTSIDE THE CHICKASAW BRICKTOWN BALLPARK

8. June & July: Okietales at the Oklahoma History Center is a one-of-a-kind storytelling time where kids see, hear and experience history. $2; museum admission included. Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

9. See downtown in a new light during Myriad Gardens’ Full Moon Ride and Run, held on select evenings throughout the spring and summer. Take a leisurely bike ride through downtown or work on your speed with an urban run. Organizers request a $5 donation.

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10. Taking the whole family out for a restaurant meal can be costly.

Instead, pack up a homemade lunch and go on a picnic to instantly upgrade your mealtime. Our list of top picnic spots in the metro provides ideal locations. www.metrofamilymagazine. com/picnic-spots 11. August: Need more cat videos in your life? Myriad Gardens’ FREE Cat Video Festival features a collection of the internet’s finest cat videos as well as food trucks and live music. Friday, Aug. 3, 7-10 p.m.

12. Suit up for family fun no matter the weather by taking a dip at an indoor pool. Goldfish Swim School’s family swim is open to the community, and admission is $5 per swimmer or $15 per family.

Fridays, noon-1 p.m. & 6:30-8 p.m.

13. The City of Oklahoma City offers FREE fishing on the first Saturday of the month. Drop a line at any of the city’s close-tohome fishing spots. No city permit is required; however, a state license is required for anyone 16 and older.

14. Admission at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman) is always FREE. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday with collections and exhibitions families are sure to find intriguing.

OKIETALES AT OKLAHOMA HISTORY CENTER

15. August: Slide Outta Summer at Mitch Park celebrates the end of summer with inflatable water slides, music, food trucks and a sand pit. All ages are welcome; admission is $5. Sat, Aug. 24, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

16. August: Catch some tunes at the annual Rock the Route Celebration in Yukon. Attendees can enjoy dinner from a line-up of food trucks, shopping and kids’ activities like crafts and face painting. The event is free to attend.

17. Hit up a local restaurant on their kids-dine-free discount days for seriously cheap eats. Find participating restaurants here: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-restaurants-discounts-alpha.

18. Visit your local library. Both the Metropolitan Library System and Pioneer Library System have multiple locations and dozens of free events. Even if you don’t catch a special event, these facilities are havens for families seeking free fun.

19. Embrace the great outdoors by heading to a top spot for exploring nature in OKC. Our readers love Martin Park Nature Center, Myriad Botanical Gardens and the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge.

20. August-November: Spend a day at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for FREE during their Wide-Open Wednesdays.

FULL MOON BIKE RIDE & RUN AT MYRIAD GARDENS

21. Tour the town on the new streetcars! Day passes are just $3, and on the third Friday each month OKC Streetcars are offering free rides until September.

23. September: Learn about aviation at the Max Westheimer Airport’s FREE Annual Aviation Festival. Enjoy static displays and tours of the control tower. Saturday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

22. Get some fresh air and exercise on a bike ride. There are plenty of scenic trails to discover together, including the Oklahoma River trails, Spring Creek Trail at Arcadia Lake and many more. Find upcoming cycling events and a full list of popular trails to ride at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-bike-events/.

24. Try a new-to-you playground! There’s no better way to entertain kids than taking them to a new open-air play place. Visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/metro-parks to find the best parks in the metro and a few hidden gems.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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25. October: Make fall memories at WINGS’s Fall Harvest Pumpkin Patch. Hay rides, pumpkin train rides and a corn maze are just a few of the featured attractions.

26. October: Climb aboard a variety of large vehicles and talk with drivers at the Pioneer Library System’s annual Touch-a-Truck, benefiting all Cleveland County library locations. The event is free to attend but attendees are encouraged to make a donation.

27. Several museums offer complimentary admission on select days.

Oklahoma Hall of Fame hosts See You Saturdays on the second Saturday each month, and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum welcomes families during their Saturdays for Kids event on the first Saturday of each month.

28. Several times a year on select Sundays the Oklahoma City Museum of Art offers SONIC Family Days. Families can take part in fun art-making activities, explore the galleries and watch kid-friendly films, all with complimentary museum admission.

29. When the forecast is less than ideal, head to an indoor playground. Play places are available at Penn Square Mall, Sooner Mall and Quail Springs Mall and provide temperature-controlled entertainment at no cost. Our readers recommend their favorite places for indoor play at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/readersrecommend-top-places-for-indoor-play.

30. October: Enjoy a pie-baking contest, live music and vendors while browsing the offerings of local farmers at the OSU-OKC Farmers Market Fall Festival.

31. Late October or early November: Take part in a festive tribute to the famed Latino holiday at the Day of the Dead Festival in the Plaza District.

32. Museums are an ideal way for families to spend time together learning and exploring. From art and science to history and culture, find unique treasures in local FREE museums like the Oklahoma Railway Museum or Edmond Historical Society & Museum. Find a full list of free metro museums at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/free-museums-in-okc.

33. Catch a movie at Northpark 7 (12100 N May, Ste G). If you think it’s impossible to go to the movies for $5 or less, think again. This theater offers affordable tickets on new releases, with even lower prices on Tuesdays.

34. October: Let your creativity run wild at the Paseo District’s annual Magic Lantern Celebration. Children of all ages are invited to transform themselves with the help of local artists and join a costume parade in a labyrinth painted on the street.

35. October: Celebrate the beginning of fall at the Asian Moon Festival at UCO. Take part in games, crafts and activities that showcase Asian cultures, and end the evening watching a traditional lion dance.

36. Explore Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expy) with the whole family. The shop has an extensive children’s area and hosts regular events with live music and story times, offered at no charge.

37. October: Bricktown’s Brick-or-Treat encourages young ghouls to stop by participating businesses for a special treat! Families can enjoy a variety of themed and free activities. Tuesday, Oct. 29, 4-7 p.m.

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TOP: MAX WESTHEIMER AIRPORT’S AVIATION FESTIVAL; MIDDLE: DAY OF THE DEAD FESTIVAL, PLAZA DISTRICT; BOTTOM: MAGIC LANTERN CELEBRATION, PASEO ARTS DISTRICT

43. April: Norman Music Festival is a free, independent music festival in downtown Norman featuring more than 300 performers.

The decade-old festival provides a captivating outlet for arts, culture and entertainment.

44. Rent a movie, make some festive popcorn and enjoy a night in!

45. Neighborhood celebrations across the metro welcome families with live entertainment, fun activities, local food trucks and vendors. For our full list, visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ family-friendly-okc-street-festivals/.

46. May: Spend a day on the farm shopping and enjoying family activities at the annual Okie Sampler at Chester’s Party Barn & Farm (5201 Cimarron Rd NW, Piedmont). Admission is $5; kids under 1 are free.

47. May: An annual favorite, the Paseo Arts Festival hosts a variety of local and regional artists from varied backgrounds and mediums. Attendees can browse art and enjoy music, food vendors and a children’s area. The festival is free to attend.

48. Visit an Oklahoma State Park. Most are free and your family could easily spend hours exploring nature and learning about Oklahoma wildlife.

49. Volunteer together. It won’t cost you anything but your time, will enrich your community and make you feel great! Get ideas on where to volunteer as a family here: www.metrofamilymagazine. com/volunteer.

50. Enter our contests! It just takes a second and you could win big!

Find a list of current contests at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ contests.

TOP: PASEO ARTS FESTIVAL; BOTTOM: MESTA PARK

38. Go retro with a free skating lesson at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St). Skate rentals are just $2, and the 45-minute lessons will get your whole crew rolling around the rink.

Editor’s note: The dates for events and activities were current at the time of publication. Verify dates and times with host or venue as schedules may have changed. Find all our lists of cost-saving fun by season at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cost-savingentertainment-in-okc.

39. January: Oklahoma wintertime brings eagles to the Sooner State, and Arcadia Lake hosts an annual Eagle Watch where families can get an up-close look at the grace and beauty of these majestic birds. The park office sets up raptor wingspan displays with information about where to find the birds. Park admission is $3 per vehicle.

40. March: During spring break, explore the Oklahoma Hall of Fame’s FREE Spring Thing. Each day during the week-long program highlights a unique theme with story times, crafts, movies and activities.

41. March: Tour the lush gardens and learn about Native American culture at the Chickasaw Cultural Center’s Three Sisters Celebration.

42. April: The annual 89er Days Celebration in downtown Guthrie celebrates Oklahoma history with a chuck wagon dinner, 1889-style baseball game and parade. Most events are free to attend.

FAMILIES VOLUNTEER AT REGIONAL FOOD BANK

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Everything Guide 21 After-School Activities 28 Camps 32 Child Care 34 Community Support 36 Education 40 Health & Fitness 46 Local Shopping 49 Restaurants 52 Parties 54 Places 60 Service Providers 64 Special Needs

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

66 Pregnancy & Baby Resources

Welcome to the Everything Guide, a directory you can use year-round for all things family in the OKC metro.

From after-school activities and health services to restaurants and places for family fun, find the top-rated places and services as determined by you our readers in our annual Family Favorites awards.

From your nominations and then your 54,000 votes, a winner and two finalists in each category were determined. Winners are denoted by a star, and Family Favorite winner and finalist listings include the phrase “A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.�

Other advertising partners are also included in this guide.

Thank you for your invaluable participation in creating this guide and enjoy, well, everything!

Find the complete list of 2019 Family Favorite honorees at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/family-favorites.

20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

After-School Activities Art Studios/Art Lessons Alisa Nelson Studio

Oops, I Arted 405-921-1883

Edmond www.alisanelsonstudio.com Offers homeschool and after-school art classes for elementary and middle school aged students, private lessons, summer camps and art parties at her in-home studio. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Artsy Learning Center - Norman

405-343-4064

1215 36th Ave NW, Norman www.artsylearningcenter.com Study master artists and create art using their techniques. Six-week sessions meet weekly for an hour. After school and homeschool options. Epic certified. $200.

Artsy Rose Academy

405-603-8550

7739 W Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City www.artsyrose.com Offers art lessons for preschoolers to teens taught by degreed art instructors in all mediums, plus craft classes, social painting events and more for all ages. Homeschool classes available. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

City of Edmond Parks

405-359-4630

2733 Marilyn Williams Dr (Mitch Park), Edmond www.edmondparks.com Offers year-round classes in arts, crafts and many other subjects taught via community partners such as Tippi Toes and Mad Science.

Some are one-time classes and others are longer series of classes.

Check their seasonal activity guides online for full listings.

405-476-9512

15200 Traditions Blvd, Building A, Suite 2, Edmond www.facebook.com/oopsiartedtoo Offers art classes to all ages in clay, acrylics, watercolor, mixed media and other mediums. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Unpluggits Paint & Play

405-340-7584

575 Enterprise Dr, Ste 110, Edmond www.unpluggits.com Provides ceramics and crafts to paint for all ages, including adults, plus an indoor playground for children ages 18 months to 10 years.

Community/Leadership Organizations Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma

405-254-2068

3309 E Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City www.campdakani.org Nonprofit youth development organization offering outdoor experiences to children in the Oklahoma City metro area. Operates a camp with activities for ages 5-13 that includes zip line, gaga ball, archery, slingshots, rock climbing, boating and fishing.

Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma

405-528-4475

6100 N Robinson, Oklahoma City www.gswestok.org Since 1912, Girl Scouting has been a space for G.I.R.L.s (Go-Getters, Innovators, Risk-Takers, Leaders). Using industry-leading curriculum and a desire to support STEM curriculum in the classroom, they are building the next generation of leaders. Girls K-12th grade can discover a love for the outdoors through nature exploration and take their curiosity to the next level in a girl-led environment.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Dance Studios Studio J School of Dance

OCU Community Dance 405-348-3377

420 S Santa Fe Ave, Edmond www.studiojdanceok.com

Offers students of all ages and abilities the opportunity for self expression and faith through dance including ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip-hop, boys-only hip-hop and contemporary. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Classical Ballet School

405-755-5540

12008 N Virginia Ave, Oklahoma City www.classicalballetschoolokc.com Teaches pure, classical ballet technique. Their approach to performing allows students of all ages (4-18 years) to participate annually in an original, full-length story-ballet, a unique and exciting experience for children, families and the community.

Dove Dance

405-773-3683

5842 NW 72nd Pl, Oklahoma City 225 N Trade Center, Mustang www.dovedance.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A Christian-based dance studio for children and teens. Offers training in major dance styles, including ballet, tap, hip-hop/funk, jazz, contemporary and acrobatics. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Offers dance classes in tap, jazz, ballet and hip-hop to students of all ages. Small class sizes with no additional charge for the annual showcase/recital. Affiliation with OCU provides qualified university-trained instructors in a fun, safe and healthy environment.

Scholarships available.

Oklahoma City Ballet’s Yvonne Chouteau School

405-843-9898

6800 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City www.okcballet.org Provides quality ballet instruction for children to adults. Community classes also offered, which include adult ballet, ballroom, yoga and Zumba.

Velocity Dance Center

405-721-8807

11122 N Rockwell Ave, Ste A-11, Oklahoma City www.oklahomacitydancestudio.com Programs are age- and developmentally-appropriate for boys and girls ages 2 and up, for beginners to advanced dancers. Offers ballet, pom, hip-hop, jazz and tap. Specializes in very young dancers with individualized, age-appropriate methods. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Pure Classical Technique

CLASSICAL BALLET SCHOOL 22 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

405-208-5508

2500 Blackwelder, on the Oklahoma City University campus, www.okcu.edu/community-dance-center/home

All-Inclusive Tuition

Enroll Now!

405.755.5540 classicalballetschoolokc.com

Healthy Happy Confident Thank you for voting us Best Dance Studio 7 years in a row!

Ballet Pointe Jazz Tap Hip Hop Boys Only Hip Hop Contemporary Clogging

Enroll Now! A safe and fun environment with experienced teachers who inspire children to be the best they can be.

405-348-3377 420 S. Santa Fe in Edmond

Visit our website for more information studiojdanceok.com

EVERYTHING GUIDE

Gymnastics/Cheer Training Facilities Metro Gymnastics

405-848-5308

7420 Broadway Ext, Oklahoma City www.metrogymokc.com

Provides organized recreational and competitive gymnastics programs for children of all ages. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Cheer 4 Christ

405-519-5539

2600 E Danforth Rd, Edmond www.cheer4christ.com Competitive cheer academy for all levels ages 4-18. Dedicated to fostering an atmosphere of good sportsmanship and healthy competition. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Oklahoma Gold Gymnastics

405-341-1175

707 Centennial Blvd, Edmond www.oklahomagoldgymnastics.com Offers tumbling, Ninja Kids and gymnastics for ages 1-18. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Twist & Shout Training Center 405-775-9491, Edmond; 405-573-9974, Norman www.shouterspirit.com Offers competitive and non-competitive tumbling and cheerleading for ages 4 and up.

It’s a Party at 7739 W. Hefner Rd. / OKC

Kids Birthday Party for ages 4 & up

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Art Activity Set-up / Clean-up Paper products “SHIMMERS” SNOW CONE party pack Special gift for birthday child

Social Painting Parties for Adults

Come to our location or we’ll come to yours!

405.603.8550 Artsyrose.com

Martial Arts Studios

Perfect for: Ladies’ night out Work parties Sports team parties Couples’ connection Creativity for a Cause Fundraisers

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Dragon Kim’s Taekwondo & Fitness

405-341-1016

2600 E 2nd St, Edmond www.dragonkimstkd.com Provides classes for ages 6 and up to help young children develop coordination, agility and focus through learning traditional taekwondo. Students are placed in classes by level of skill. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Christian Karate Academy

405-558-1800

16614 N Western Ave, Edmond www.christiankarateacademy.com Karate school for children, teens and adults, all levels of skill. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Music/Drama/Performance Instruction Musical Me in OKC

405-503-1389

musicalmeinokc.com Multiple locations (Edmond & OKC) Kindermusik classes for ages 6 and younger. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Canterbury Youth Voices

405-232-7464

The Studio of Sooner Theatre

405-321-9600

424 Colcord Dr, Ste D, Oklahoma City www.canterburyokc.com

110 E Main St, Norman www.soonertheatre.org

An extracurricular youth choir for students in grades 2 through 12 that rehearses at two locations, in central Oklahoma City and Moore, and provides performance opportunities and unique experiences.

Apprentice Choir (grades 2-6) and Chorale (grades 7-12) build and refine vocal singing skills.

Kids learn confidence and creativity through on-stage opportunities.

A variety of classes and summer camps are offered for ages 3 through high school.

Lyric Theatre Thelma Gaylord Academy

844 W Danforth, Edmond www.upstagetheatreok.com

405-524-9310 X101

1727 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City thelmagaylordacademy.com Students of all levels can enjoy musical theatre, theatre and dance classes geared at increasing skills, developing ensemble collaboration and finding their voice. Students will get instruction in a fun environment that celebrates the joy of collaborative theatre.

School of Rock Edmond

405-471-6630

100 N Broadway, Ste 124, Edmond locations.schoolofrock.com/edmond Kids learn to play instruments (guitar, keyboard, drums) and perform in a band. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Upstage Theatre & Performing Arts Studio

405-285-5803

Performing arts studio for all ages. Offers classes, lessons and performing opportunities in the community. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Sports & Sports Leagues for Kids i9 Sports

405-225-7048

i9sports.com

Offers youth sports programs for ages 3-12 in OKC, Edmond, Yukon and Norman. Sports include baseball, basketball, cheerleading, flag football and soccer. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Introducing Oklahoma City’s NEW premier indoor sports facility!

League Play

Summer Session 2: July 21-Sept. 21. 8 games for youth and adult teams. Registration ends July 14.

Summer Open Play Pass

Ages 5 to 16 can enjoy activities such as soccer, futsal, dodgeball, volleyball, obstacle course, board games and more.

Mon., Wed., & Fri., 1-4pm.

Registration fee is $15/child with multiple packages available.

Parent's Night Out

Drop the kids off at our multi-sport facility where they can play sports and enjoy a variety of activities! Ages 5 and up; $20 per child.

July 13 & 27; Aug. 3 & 10. 6:30-9:30pm

SCORE OKC Foot School

Designed for kids to get touches on the soccer ball, play games & score lots of goals! Tues. & Thurs. through Aug. 8 Ages 4-5: 9-10am • Ages 6-7: 10-11am

Birthday Parties

Multiple packages available. Book today!

405-920-2121 or lsteverson@scoreokc.com

Summer Family Dodgeball Tournaments Mom & Son: July 19, 7pm; Dad & Daughter: Aug. 2, 7pm.

Couples: Aug. 9, 7pm. 8 players max per team; 3 games guaranteed. $40 per team.

Register today for these great programs or to book your child’s party!

18509 N MERIDIAN AVE • EDMOND • 405-920-2121 • www.scoreokc.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Cadence Equestrian Center

405-348-7469

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

14150 S Pine St, Edmond www.cadenceequestrian.com

Multiple locations ymcaokc.org/children-youth/youth-sports

Provides riding lessons throughout the year through the Cadence Riding Academy (ages 4 through adult) and Camp Cadence (ages 5-16). Safe environment and gentle school horses. For recreational and competitive riders.

Swim programs, soccer, martial arts, baseball, football, volleyball and more are offered at multiple YMCA branches, all designed to provide skill instruction, youth development, healthy living and social responsibility through a supportive environment. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Score OKC

405-920-2121

18509 N Meridian Ave, Edmond www.scoreokc.com This new sports facility offers seasonal indoor and outdoor soccer and futsal league play for youth and adult teams all year as well as volleyball and basketball. The Score OKC Foot School is designed to get kids to increase their ball skills, play games and score goals.

The Play Pass lets kids ages 5-16 enjoy active play for three hours on certain days during school breaks.

SoccerCity of Oklahoma City

405-748-3888

4520 Old Farm Rd, Oklahoma City www.soccercityokcity.com

Swim Lessons Oklahoma Swim Academy

405-509-5415

14701 N Kelly Ave, Edmond *New location coming Fall 2019 www.oklahomaswim.com

Teaching all ages a love of safe swimming, OSA offers individualized instruction from infant survival swim lessons to stroke development. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Aqua Tots

Offers Lil’ Kickers (toddlers through age 9) throughout the year, plus leagues, tournaments, camps, clinics and training times for soccer and other indoor sports for all ages. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-721-1871

8405 N Rockwell Ave, Ste 1-4, Oklahoma City www.aqua-tots.com Offers indoor swimming lessons for kids ages 4 months and up, including parent and tot and advanced. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Enroll in Kumon today!

Kumon sets your kids up for success by helping them build an academic advantage in math, reading, and all the habits they’ll need to succeed in school.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Kumon Math and Reading Centers

S GIVE YOUR KID

SMART ADVAN

TAGES

ETIME. THAT LAST A LIF

EDMOND - NORTH • 405-715-1111 775 West Covell Road, Ste. 150 Edmond, OK 73003

OKLAHOMA CITY - NORTH • 405-752-2000 9300 North May Avenue, Ste. 200 Oklahoma City, OK 73120

EDMOND - WEST • 405-216-9800 245 S. Santa Fe Avenue Edmond, OK 73003

OKLAHOMA CITY - NORTHWEST • 405-721-READ 6220 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73132

NORMAN • 405-364-1600 1320 North Interstate Drive Norman, OK 73072

OKLAHOMA CITY - SOUTH • 405-691-8900 10600 S. Pennsylvania, #5 Oklahoma City, OK 73170

YUKON - SOUTH • 405-265-0075 501 S. Mustang Road, Ste. L Yukon, OK 73099

kumon.com

Where Smart Kids Get Smarter. ©2019 Kumon North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

Goldfish Swim School - Edmond

405-696-7500

Mathnasium

10 NW 146th St, Edmond www.goldfishswimschool.com/edmond

Multiple locations www.mathnasium.com

Offers year-round swim lessons for kids ages 4 months-12 years, weekly Family Swim times and swim parties. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Utilizes specially-trained math instructors to help kids in grades 2-12 better understand math in an individualized setting. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Tutoring/Learning Assistance Centers

Oklahoma Youth Literacy Program (OKYLP)

800-ABC-MATH

7 OKC area locations www.kumon.com Individualized programs in math and reading that accelerate learning in children ages 3 through high school. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Encouraging Words

405-578-4442

2949 W Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City encouragingwordsok.com A collaborative therapy center for ages 5-18 with academic language therapists and speech-language pathologists who are highly trained in dyslexia and related disorders. Therapies utilize research- and evidence-based instruction techniques. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

3663 N Lottie Ave, Oklahoma City www.okylpokc.org Provides a tutoring and reading enrichment program for PreK3-9th grade after school, during school breaks and over the summer. Fees are kept low to serve all who need the services.

Right Path Education

405-946-3418

NW Highway and Meridian, Warr Acres www.rightpathtutor.com State certified teacher offering 1:1 tutoring customized to each child according to his/her needs, personality and learning style. Open for tutoring six days a week in reading, math, writing, Kindergarten and 3rd grade test readiness, phonics, etc. Email: msperryteaches2@ yahoo.com.

Family Favorites

Dedicated to developing safe, strong swimmers since 1991.

ASK ABOUT OUR

FREE IN-WATER

SWIM EVALUATION

REGISTER TODAY! 405-721-1871

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

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

Š2018 Aqua-Tots Swim Schools

Kumon Math and Reading Centers

405-601-3055

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Camps Day Camps, Arts Artsy Rose Academy

405-603-8550

7739 W Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City www.artsyrose.com

The Studio of Sooner Theatre

Offers art and craft classes by degreed art instructors for ages 5 and up. Held during all school breaks. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Artsy Learning Center - Norman

405-343-4064

1215 36th Ave NW, Norman www.artsylearningcenter.com Provides monthly “parent afternoon out” camps. Kids enjoy art enrichment activities, pizza, free play time and a movie for $35 per child.

Canterbury Youth Voices

405-232-7464

424 Colcord Dr, Ste D, Oklahoma City www.canterburyokc.com An extracurricular youth choir for students in grades 2 through 12 that rehearses at two locations, in central Oklahoma City and Moore, and provides performance opportunities and unique experiences.

Apprentice Choir (grades 2-6) and Chorale (grades 7-12) build and refine vocal singing skills.

Classical Ballet School

405-755-5540

12008 N Virginia Ave, Oklahoma City www.classicalballetschoolokc.com Teaches pure, classical ballet technique. Their approach to performing allows students of all ages (4-18 years) to participate annually in an original, full-length story-ballet, an unique and exciting experience for children, families and the community.

Focus on Photography Camp

405-359-4630

Week-long day camps offered through Edmond Parks & Recreation for ages 7-17. Among other activities, participants learn art composition and take field trips to practice photography. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Heart Studios

405-664-4194

1605 E 2nd St, Ste 1, Edmond www.heartstudiosllc.com Provides a wide range of art education classes and events for both children and adults. Classes also available for children with special needs. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Lyric Theatre Thelma Gaylord Academy

405-524-9310 X101

1727 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City thelmagaylordacademy.com

405-606-7003

2501 N Blackwelder Ave, Oklahoma City www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

28

405-321-9600

110 E Main St, Norman www.soonertheatre.org Kids learn confidence and creativity through on-stage opportunities.

A variety of classes and summer camps are offered for ages 3 through high school.

Day Camps, Multi-Activity

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

405-425-0218

2000 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City www.okczoo.org Offers adventurous camps filled with crafts, animal guests and exhibit tours on Zoo grounds. Ages 3-15. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Camp DaKaNi - Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma

405-254-2068

3309 E Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City www.campdakani.org Camp activities for ages 5-13 include zip line, gaga ball, archery, slingshots, rock climbing, boating, appreciation of nature and fishing.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Childcare Network

866-521-KIDS

Six locations in OKC & Edmond www.childcarenetwork.com Children ages 6-12 offered summer camp experiences all summer or on a week-by-week basis. Each week a variety of engaging, ageappropriate activities and educational field trips are offered.

City of Edmond Parks

405-359-4630

2733 Marilyn Williams Dr (Mitch Park), Edmond www.edmondparks.com Offers year-round classes in arts, crafts and many other subjects taught via community partners such as Tippi Toes and Mad Science.

Some are one-time classes and others are longer series of classes.

Check their seasonal activity guides online for full listings.

Yukon Kids Camp Summer Break 405-354-8442 Yukon Community Center 2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon yukonok.gov Summer camps for ages 5-11 provided by Yukon Parks & Recreation.

Students of all levels can enjoy musical theatre, theatre and dance classes geared at increasing skills, developing ensemble collaboration and finding their voice. Students will get instruction in a fun environment that celebrates the joy of collaborative theatre.

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre

Offers a range of summer camps for ages 3-16 in subjects such as theatre, dance, magic, filmmaking, visual arts, coding and video game design.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

KALEIDESCAPE at St. Mary’s Episcopal School

405-341-9541

505 E Covell Rd, Edmond www.smesedmond.org/our-community/summerprograms.cfm Offers campers robotics, art, nature, exploration, culinary skills and invention. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Become a Spark Champion!

I AM

Light the fire within...

Give more local youth the gift of an outdoor education.

To find out more, call 405-254-20 ! or email development@campfirehok.org

Got a tight schedule?

Need a certain night?

NOW ENROLLING for 2019-2020 classes.

Horse Camps Camp Cadence, Since 2007

A

GIRL

Full Day Camps $395/week July 8 - July 12 July 15 - July 19 July 22 - July 26 July 29 - Aug. 2 Overnight Camps Girls Only $995/week July 7 - July 13 Classes for ages 2 and up

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop

Half Day Camps $250/week July 8 - July 12 July 15 - July 19 July 22 - July 26 July 29 - Aug. 2 Aug 5 - Aug 9

Girl Scouts are Go-Getters, Innovators, Risk-Takers and Leaders. Cathy Ferguson

CADENCE EQUESTRIAN

11122 N Rockwell Ave Ste A-11 OKC

Enroll online at: www.cadenceequestrian.com

admin@oklahomacitydancestudio.com

(405) 348-7469

405-721-8807

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

SCOUT

29

(pictured above) competed in the 1964 Olympic Games in Japan and brought home a Gold medal.

Join a network of girls who aren’t afraid to take risks and take action!

JOIN TODAY

GSWESTOK.ORG/JOIN

EVERYTHING GUIDE

Oklahoma History Center

405-522-0765

405-888-7379

907 N Chisholm, Oklahoma City cottonwoodcreekranch.com

One week Oklahoma Junior Curator Camp for ages 8-12 held in mid-July.

Offers a wide range of activities for horse enthusiasts, including horseback riding, riding lessons, horse birthday parties and summer horse riding camps. Lessons are designed to keep horseback riding fun for all levels and ages. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Day Camps, Sports

Goldfish Swim School - Edmond 405-696-7500

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY

10 NW 146th St, Edmond www.goldfishswimschool.com/edmond

Multiple locations ymcaokc.org/children-youth/summer-day-camp/ locations Day camps designed to be a place to learn, explore and grow while creating memories and friendships. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Offers Jump Start Clinics (JSCs) consisting of five consecutive 30-minute lessons, same time each day, with the same instructor. JSCs are designed to be a quick and easy way to get your kids swim ready or to advance to the next level, while learning how to be safe in and around the water.

Cadence Equestrian Center

Score OKC

405-348-7469

14150 S Pine St, Edmond www.cadenceequestrian.com Providing riding lessons throughout the year through the Cadence Riding Academy (ages 4 through adult) and Camp Cadence (ages 5-16). Safe environment and gentle school horses. For recreational and competitive riders.

LEARN. GROW. THRIVE. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Cottonwood Creek Ranch

800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, Oklahoma City www.okhistory.org

405-920-2121

18509 N Meridian Ave, Edmond www.scoreokc.com This new sports facility offers seasonal indoor and outdoor soccer and futsal league play for youth and adult teams all year as well as volleyball and basketball. The Score OKC Foot School is designed to get kids to increase their ball skills, play games and score goals.

The Play Pass lets kids ages 5-16 enjoy active play for three hours on certain days during school breaks.

At the Y, your child will participate in:

Family s Favorite

REGISTER TODAY for the YMCA Before & After School program.

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YMCAOKC.ORG/BA

SoccerCity of Oklahoma City

405-748-3888

4520 Old Farm Rd, Oklahoma City www.soccercityokcity.com Ages 3-16 enjoy soccer drills, games and scrimmaging against other campers during day camps. The year-round Lil’ Kickers program for ages 18 months-9 years also continues in the summer. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Sleep Away Camps Kanakuk K-Kauai Family Kamp 417-266-3000

Camp Classen 580-369-2272 (YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY) 10840 Main Camp Rd, Davis www.ymcaokc.org/camp-classen Summer resident camp for ages 6-17 located in the Arbuckle Mountains with activities such as boating, horseback riding, arts and crafts, group games and outdoor play. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Camp DaKaNi-Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma

405-254-2068

833 Lake Shore Dr, Branson, MO kanakuk.com

3309 E Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City www.campdakani.org

Christian summer camp that offers a special one-week family camp along with numerous other traditional camp options. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Resident camps for ages 11-17 focus on life skills such as leadership, decision-making and teamwork. Activities include rappelling, kayaking, paintball and more. No screens are allowed. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Camp ClapHans

405-307-2865

2002 E Robinson, Norman www.campclaphans.com

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Offers a residential summer camp for kids with developmental disabilities ages 8-18 with a one-to-one camper to staff ratio. Provides all the same types of activities a typically developing child would find at summer camp, but adapted to the campers’ needs.

2000 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City www.okczoo.org/overnight-programs

405-425-0218

Offers a variety of sleepover adventures for kids of all ages with special tours of the Zoo in the evening, early morning or middle of the night. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Enroll for Summer Camps!

Multiple weekly camps for ages 4-16 will be held through August. $95/camp.

Half-day sessions: 9-12 p.m. & 1-4 p.m.

Lil’ Kickers Summer Session runs through 8/10.

We LOVE helping OKC area families and kids enjoy soccer!

Thank you for voting us as one of the best Sports Leagues for Kids and Day Camps, Sports.

Get more details at soccercityokcity.com

Call TODAY!

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

405-748-3888

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Child Care Child Care Centers Childcare Network

866-521-KIDS

Six locations in OKC and Edmond www.childcarenetwork.com Daily child care programs for infants (6 weeks old) to 12 year olds that specialize in individualized attention, school readiness and affordability for parents. After-school care and summer programs available for school-age kids. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Child Care Inc.

405-946-3223

Seven locations in OKC and Midwest City www.childcareinc.com Caring for infants to 12 year olds via seven locations. Three-star accredited facilities accept DHS, tribal, military and drop-in care.

After-school care and summer programs for school-aged children.

Open 24 hours and Saturday.

The Goddard School, Western

405-348-4442

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

17440 N Western Ave, Edmond www.goddardschool.com/oklahoma-city/edmondwestern-avenue-ok With a motto of “Powered by STEAM, Fueled by fun,” this school/ day care provides opportunities for fun and learning in the classroom and outdoor learning spaces. Their goal is to stimulate a lifelong love of learning in literacy, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. Also offers chess, foreign language and gardening. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

My Small Wonders Inc.

405-285-7752

733 Village Pkwy, Edmond mysmallwonders.com

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Provides care for children ages six weeks through elementary. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Primrose School of Edmond

405-285-6787

15000 N Western Ave, Edmond www.primroseschools.com/schools/edmond/ Offers their Balanced Learning curriculum providing carefully blended child-initiated and teacher-directed activities.

Spontaneity Kid Care

405-221-8300

3705 W Memorial, Oklahoma City spontaneitykidcare.com On-demand babysitting center that offers drop-in babysitting for members. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree

Other My Lilypad App

405-314-2436

www.Mylilypadapp.com Local company (Easy Time Clock) offers a product perfect for child care providers, an app that allows for easy communication between child care providers and their families. Features include online daily sheets, billing and invoicing, child tracking, shared calendar, provider and parent portals. Free 30-day trial offered.

Score OKC

405-920-2121

18509 N Meridian Ave, Edmond www.scoreokc.com This new OKC sports facility offers field trip programs for day cares and other youth groups to utilize the facility for active play and sports training.

405-348-4442 goddardschool.com

Family Favorites

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

Need to pick up after 6 p.m.? We can help!

• Caring for infants through 12 years • After-school and summer programs for school age kids • 3-star nationally accredited program • Open 24 hours and Saturday • Accept military, tribal, DHS & drop-in care

• 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 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

3601 NW 51st OKC

405.946.3223

309 Bizzell MWC

405.737.8790

3034 NW 17th OKC

405.947.7722

www.childcareinc.com

3 OKC Locations 540 N Council Rd. -

405.789.0661

5816 NW 36th St.-

405.947.4002

6624 NW 63rd St. -

405.721.1830

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Community Support Churches for Families & Children Life.Church

405-680-5433

Multiple locations www.life.church Through age-specific lessons, activities and small groups, children birth-6th grade enjoy LifeKids programs where they learn biblical truths and real-life application. Also offers Switch for 6th-12th graders. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Crossings Community Church

405-755-2227

14600 Portland Ave, Oklahoma City 1500 W Covell, Edmond www.crossings.church Offers multiple worship services and styles of worship, as well as small community groups to connect and classes for all ages. The purpose of Crossings Community Church is to be a Christ-centered church building Christ-centered people. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

People’s Church

405-775-9991

800 E Britton Rd, Oklahoma City 8512 NW Expy, Oklahoma City 351 N Air Depot Blvd, Midwest City www.peoples.church

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Offers incredible kids and youth programs where children will make new friends and learn about Jesus while having a blast. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

855-811-9699

Low Vision Center: 4301 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City www.NVOklahoma.org Serves as the only private in-state provider of comprehensive services for people of all ages with significant vision loss that cannot be corrected with glasses, surgery or medication. Also provides youth and adult programs, summer camps and peer-groups and is the largest employer of blind and visually-impaired persons in the state.

Positive Tomorrows

405-556-5082

Oklahoma City www.positivetomorrows.org Oklahoma’s only private elementary school and social services agency specifically for homeless children. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY Multiple locations www.ymcaokc.org Strengthens community through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all, regardless of age, income or background. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Best Neighborhood Districts Midtown Bricktown

Nonprofit Organizations that Serve Children and Families Infant Crisis Services

NewView Oklahoma

Plaza District

405-528-3663

4224 N Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City www.infantcrisis.org Provides life-sustaining formula, food and diapers to babies and toddlers in times of crisis. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Best Neighborhoods Mesta Park Nichols Hills Paseo Neighborhood

EVERYTHING GUIDE

Education Charter Schools

John Rex Charter Elementary School

405-587-8100

500 W Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City johnrexschool.org Offers a one-of-a-kind quality education to an economically- and racially-diverse group of students in downtown OKC. PreK to 7th grade. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-606-8742

3333 N Shartel Ave, Oklahoma City www.hardingcharterprep.org Provides students with an academically challenging educational experience through an Advanced Placement curriculum, which prepares students for success at a four year university. Selected by thebestschools.org as the number one high school in Oklahoma; 23rd in the nation. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

4101 NW 122nd St, Ste B, Oklahoma City epiccharterschools.org

Online Schools & Home School Resource Organizations/Businesses

Charter school that combines the convenience of online learning with the support of one-on-one instruction from an Oklahoma certified teacher. This blended learning model allows students and families to set their own pace. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

4101 NW 122nd St, Ste B, Oklahoma City epiccharterschools.org

Epic Charter School

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Harding Charter Preparatory High School

405-749-4550

Epic Charter School

405-749-4550

Charter school that combines the convenience of online learning with the support of one-on-one instruction from an Oklahoma certified teacher. This blended learning model allows students and families to set their own pace. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Homeschool Oklahoma 405-810-0386 ochec.com 5830 NW Expy, #314, Oklahoma City Previously known as Oklahoma Christian Home Educators’ Consociation (OCHEC), this is an organization that promotes home education in Oklahoma through events, communication and resources, and assists parents in the homeschooling of their children. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

K12

855-482-3796

www.k12.com Provides an individualized, online, awardwinning curriculum in a variety of subjects including art, music, world languages and AP courses. Offers instruction, academic services and learning solutions to public schools and districts, traditional classrooms, blended school programs and directly to families. K12-powered public schools are tuition-free; tuition-based private school options are available.

Mardel Christian & Education Multiple locations www.mardel.com Christian-themed books, music, gifts, apparel and educational materials. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Preschools & Mother’s Day Out Programs The Bilingual Schoolhouse 405-476-1344 3131 NW 50th St, Oklahoma City www.bilingualschoolhouse.com Serving ages 2-6, this preschool offers a Spanish immersion environment dedicated to helping each child grow socially, emotionally and cognitively. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Heritage Hall 405-749-3001 1800 NW 122nd St, Oklahoma City www.heritagehall.com Established in 1969, Heritage Hall is a private, coeducational, college preparatory school serving a student body of approximately 900 students from preschool through grade 12 on a safe, welcoming, 112acre campus in northwest Oklahoma City.

Heritage Hall welcomes students of any race, religion, nationality or ethnic origin. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Artsy Learning Center - Norman 405-343-4064 1215 36th Ave NW, Norman www.artsylearningcenter.com An art- and literacy-based preschool for ages 2-5 that provides a unique curriculum to encourage students to solve conflict, learn, socialize and play.

First Presbyterian Church Early Childhood Program 405-341-6029 1001 S Rankin St, Edmond ecp@fpcedmond.org Quality teachers who use play-based education to enhance individualized learning in a nurturing Christian environment. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

The Goddard School, Western 405-348-4442 17440 N Western Ave, Edmond www.goddardschool.com/ oklahoma-city/edmond-westernavenue-ok With a motto of “Powered by STEAM, Fueled by fun,” this school/day care provides opportunities for fun and learning in the classroom and outdoor learning spaces.

Their goal is to stimulate a lifelong love of learning in literacy, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

Also offers chess, foreign language and gardening. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School 405-789-2595 5024 N Grove, Oklahoma City www.stcharlesokc.net Catholic church and school committed to teaching moral leadership and community involvement. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Services for Children with Low Vision and Blindness Since 1949, NewView has empowered individuals facing vision loss by maximizing their opportunities to live life without limits. NewView provides comprehensive services through all ages and stages of a person’s life as they navigate life without sight.

NewView works with you and your child to determine the best low vision devices and magnification, mobility training, daily living techniques, Braille devices, the latest technology and more.

Visit our website for more

information at NVOklahoma.org or call us today to talk to

Infinity Generation Generals Preparatory School (IGG) 405-601-3055 3663 N Lottie Ave, Oklahoma City iggokc.org

a low-vision specialist.

Private school for PreK2 to 8th grade. Offers small class sizes for individualized attention.

United Way of Central Oklahoma Community Partner

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NewView Oklahoma 4301 North Classen Blvd.

Oklahoma City, OK 73118

Toll Free (855) 811-9699 | NVOklahoma.org

Private Schools, Elementary & Secondary Heritage Hall (winner of both Elementary and Secondary) 405-749-3001 1800 NW 122nd St, Oklahoma City www.heritagehall.com A private, coeducational, college preparatory school serving a student body of approximately 900 students from preschool through 12th grade. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD IS

Uniquely BRILLIANT

Casady School 405-749-3100 IN OKLAHOMA

Children deserve an education personalized just for them.

We’re enrolling! Act now to make the most of your child’s potential with the leader in tuition-free, personalized, online education for grades K–12.

• • •

State-certified teachers Award-winning curriculum College and career planning

Join us at an event in Visit K12.com/ok Oklahoma. Visit K12.COM/ for details.

OKEVENTS for more details.

Zachary is is a K12 2016student K12 student in Washington, Zachary in Washington, D.C. D.C. and and his atat hishis school. hisstatement statementreflects reflectshis hisexperience experience school. †

Families do not pay tuition for a student to attend an online public school. Common household items and office supplies like printer ink and paper are not provided. Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.

9500 N Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City www.casady.org PreK-12 college preparatory Episcopal day school committed to deeper-level learning and seeks a student body that reflects diversity. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Crossings Christian School 405-842-8495 14400 Portland Ave, Oklahoma City www.crossingsschool.org Offers preschool to high school where the school partners with parents and church to develop students into Christ-centered servant leaders prepared academically and spiritually for college and life. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Destiny Christian School 405-677-6000 3801 SE 29th St, Oklahoma City destinywildcats.com Believes in learning beyond books, loving beyond words and living beyond tomorrow.

Their ultimate goal is to help each individual find God’s very best plan for his/her life and future through an education of excellence.

PreK (age 3) through 12th grade.

Keystone Adventure School and Farm 405-216-5400 19201 N Western Ave, Edmond www.keystoneadventureschoolandfarm.com

WE’RE ENROLLING!

K12.com/ok K12.COM/OKEVENTS 844.832.5460

Oklahoma Christian School 405-341-2265 4680 E 2nd St, Edmond www.ocssaints.org A private Christian school serving PreK through 12th grade. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

St. Mary’s Episcopal School 405-341-9541 505 E Covell Rd, Edmond www.smesedmond.org Independent Christian school for PreK ages 2-5 years and elementary 1st-5th grade.

School is characterized by small class sizes with individualized attention in a state-ofthe-art facility. Full curriculum including STEAM enrichment classes to give a wellrounded education. Their goal is to provide for the education, enrichment and spiritual needs of each student.

Westminster School 405-524-0631 600 NW 44 St, Oklahoma City www.westminsterschool.org An independent, coeducational, nonsectarian day school with students in PreK through eighth grade. The school’s mission is to educate children by engaging them actively in experiences that challenge students to solve problems as cooperative, confident and responsible learners.

Best Public School Systems, Elementary & Secondary Edmond Public Schools edmondschools.net

Deer Creek Public Schools deercreekschools.org

Piedmont Public Schools piedmontschools.org

A working farm and accredited school that serves PreK3-5th grade. Kids love to learn and learn to love at this school. Offers individualized education, art, PE, hands-on projects, Spanish, outside play and animal care. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Jo Rowan, Dance Dept. Chair

Now Enrolling!

Dance classes for all ages!

Community Dance Center Hip Hop Creative Movement

Jazz

Tap Ballet Trained Instructors

Scholarships Available

Small Class Sizes No-Hassle Spring Performance

Community Dance Center

405.208.5508 | CommunityDanceCenter@okcu.edu okcu.edu/community-dance-center

For more information, contact Rebecca Skarky, Director of Admissions, at 405-524-0631 ext. 123

Pre-K through eighth grade 600 NW 44 Street, OKC 405-524-0631 westminsterschool.org

Westminster School admits students of any race, color, religion, or national and ethnic origin. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, or national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, financial aid program, athletic, and other school-administered activities.

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Health & Fitness Chiropractors Hackney Chiropractic

Dentists for Children/Family 405-388-2348

412 S Santa Fe Ave, Edmond www.hackneychiropractic.com Specializes in prenatal and pediatric chiropractic care and offers BIRTHFIT classes and Salt Therapy. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

DeLong Family Chiropractic

405-701-5345

1018 24th Ave NW, Norman drdelong.maxliving.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Edmond Pediatric & Teen Dentistry

405-562-3199

405-513-8811

101 S Saints Blvd, Ste 212, Edmond www.edmondkidsdentist.com Provides a safe, modern and fun environment for children to receive the highest quality dental care available. Aims to have their patients look forward to visiting the dentist. Serves ages 0-20. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Dr. Bailey Coleman, DDS

Offers spinal corrective treatment for headaches and pain relief, exercise and nutritional support. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Radiant Life Chiropractic

405-606-6500

1112 N Walker Ave, Oklahoma City Highly-rated dentist in Midtown. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Dental Depot

17236 N May Ave, Ste A, Edmond www.radiantlifeokc.com

Multiple locations www.dentaldepot.net

Chiropractic clinic that specializes in prenatal care, pediatric care and nutrition. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Provides general family dentistry including routine checkups, preventive care and root canals as well as cosmetic procedures and orthodontics. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Eye Care Providers Children’s Eye Care, PLLC 405-751-2020 11013 Hefner Pointe Dr, Oklahoma City www.childrenseyecare.com Provides medical and surgical care, specializing in pediatric eye diseases. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Rose Rock Ophthalmology, PLLC - Sayeda Nazir, MD 405-225-1305 608 NW 9th St, Ste 6110, Oklahoma City roserockeyes.com Provides comprehensive eye care for ages 7 and older, ranging from eye exams to diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases.

A MetroFamily Family Favoritess Honoree.

Shields Family Eyecare Center 405-726-8200 2948 NW 156th St, Edmond shieldseyecare.com Personalized eye care for the whole family.

A MetroFamily Family Favoritess Honoree.

Family Counselors/ Counseling Businesses Nicole Mentzer, LCSW 405-926-8017 1745A NW 16th St, Oklahoma City thrivemamacollective.com Provides individual and family therapy, with a focus on maternal mental health. A MetroFamily Family Favoritess Honoree.

Goett Focused

405-826-6993

cathy@goettfocused.com www.goettfocused.com Program designed by Certified Life Coach Cathy Goett to help those with ADHD (of all ages) thrive and find their true potential.

Also is certified to consult with parents using the Certified Sanity School for Parents

program, one that focuses on helping parents who have kids with ADHD or other executive function challenges, learning disabilities, sensory processing issues and anxiety.

Family and Children’s Consultants 405-943-7500 5116 N Portland Ave, Oklahoma City familyandchildrensconsultants.com With a staff of psychologists and licensed counselors, this group is committed to helping children and families function better in their daily lives and in their relationships with each other. A MetroFamily Family Favoritess Honoree.

Family Fitness Centers True Grit Fitness 405-751-4748 14809 Santa Fe Crossing Dr, Edmond www.truegrit-ok.com Their mission is to strengthen those in need in all aspects of life, physically, mentally and spiritually. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Life Time Athletic, Oklahoma City 405-832-5200 2563 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.lifetime.life Committed to championing a healthy and happy life for its members. Fitness classes, workout area, healthy food bar, tennis courts, basketball courts, indoor and outdoor pools, swim lessons, kids’ area, hair salon and spa.

YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY Multiple locations ymcaokc.org Strengthening community through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all, regardless of age, income or background.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Hospitals

OB/GYNs

Mercy Hospital, Oklahoma City

405-755-1515

Michelle Brunnabend, DO

405-254-1757

4300 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.mercy.net

13313 N Meridian Ave, Oklahoma City www.mercy.net/doctor/michelle-l-brunnabend-do/

A leader in the treatment of cancer and stroke, breast imaging and research and robotic surgery. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Specializes in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

The Children’s Hospital at OU Medicine

Darren Goff, MD

405-271-4700

405-792-4541

4140 W Memorial Rd, Ste 215, Oklahoma City www.mercy.net/doctor/darren-walter-goff-md

1200 Childrens Ave, Oklahoma City www.oumedicine.com The only freestanding pediatric hospital in Oklahoma solely dedicated to the treatment of children. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

OB/GYN practicing from the Mercy Clinic. Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center

Karen Wilks, MD

405-949-3011

405-755-7430

3300 NW Expy, Oklahoma City baptist.integrisok.com

4140 W Memorial Rd, Ste 500, Oklahoma City centerforwomen-okc.com

Flagship location of the INTEGRIS Health Network and an awardwinning, nationally-recognized hospital. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

OB/GYN practicing at the Center for Women’s Health/Mercy Health.

Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Creating beautiful smiles that last a lifetime Call today to schedule your free initial consult

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

405-400-8069

Bring ad in for initial consult to receive $500 off any orthodontic treatment | Offer valid through 06/30/2020

Edmond | Deer Creek | OKC | Clinton www.farrowdewbre.com Connect with us for news & updates

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Orthodontists

Orthodontic Arts

Orthodontic Associates Three locations in Edmond & OKC www.oasmiles.com Offers a variety of orthodontic services including Invisalign, braces and emergency orthodontic care. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Farrow & Dewbre Orthodontics

405-400-8069

1370 E 15th St, Edmond www.farrowdewbre.com Provides state-of-the-art technology, compassionate care and a fun environment while forging a true partnership with patients in striving for a common goal: to achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

Kierl Orthodontics

405-604-3745

421 NW 10th St, Ste 201-E, Oklahoma City www.orthodonticarts.com

405-341-5020

165 E 33rd St, Edmond www.kierlorthodontics.com Orthodontic practice that utilizes the latest technology along with traditional proven clinical practices. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Provides orthodontics for children and adults using braces and Invisalign. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Pediatricians/Family Doctors/Doctor Clinics Doug Riddle, MD

405-657-3984

4509 Integris Pkwy, Ste 200, Edmond integrisok.com/doctors/douglas-riddle A board-certified family medicine physician. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Audra Fox, MD, Fusion Family Medicine

405-622-3699

5472 Main St, Ste 101, Del City www.fusionmd.org Dr. Fox and her staff fuse principles from integrative, functional, alternative and traditional medicines. She is board certified in integrative medicine. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Tammy R. Maschino, Village Center Pediatrics

405-726-8000

Offers comprehensive pediatric and adolescent care. Board certified in pediatrics. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-632-6688

Thirteen locations www.varietycare.org Welcomes SoonerCare, Medicare, many private insurance plans and patients without insurance. Services include pediatrics, family medicine, women’s health, pregnancy and newborn care, behavioral health and more. A sliding fee scale adjusts fees based on household size and income for patients who qualify. Ask about Variety Care’s newest state-of-the-art health center in NW OKC: Britton Health Center at 721 W Britton Rd.

Urgent Care Clinics Kids 1st Pediatrics After Hours Clinic 12516 N May Ave, Oklahoma City 2820 N Kelly Ave, #100, Edmond

A convenient, walk-in medical clinic providing healthcare services to all ages and specializing in urgent, non-life threatening medical needs. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Mercy Convenient Care, Edmond Memorial

Offers urgent care access without an appointment. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Find more local resources at metrofamilymagazine.com/family-resources.

Check out our Cover Kids Search starting Aug. 1.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cover-kids 44 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

405-749-7099

1919 E Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.mercy.net/practice/mercy-convenient-careedmond-memorial/

After-hours pediatric facility established and staffed by pediatricians.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

405-285-2161

1101 NW 178th St, Edmond www.edmondurgentcare.com

2820 N Kelly Ave, Edmond villagecenterpediatrics.com

Variety Care Health Centers

Edmond Urgent Care

INSPIRED MINDS INSPIRE THE WORLD.

Inspiration starts young. And when we come together, there is no limit to what we can do. Boeing is proud to encourage young minds to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, today.

EVERYTHING GUIDE

Local Shopping Boutiques/Gift Stores/Bookstores Full Circle Bookstore

405-842-2900

Bob Howard

405-302-0347

1900 NW Expy, Oklahoma City www.fullcirclebooks.com

13200 Broadway Ext, Oklahoma City bobhoward.com

The largest independent bookstore in Oklahoma offering more than 60,000 new titles in a variety of genres. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Car dealer with over 3,600 vehicles. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Best of Books

Multiple locations www.bobmoore.com

405-340-9202

1313 E Danforth Rd, Edmond www.bestofbooksok.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Car Dealerships

A family-owned bookstore offering books in a variety of genres including a wide selection of children’s books. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Commonplace Books & Kitchen

405-534-4540

1325 N Walker Ave, No. 138, Oklahoma City commonplacebooksokc.com A thoughtful shop with a common love for books and people. Story time held Saturday mornings. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Bob Moore Auto Group

Features 18 new car dealerships and thousands of used cars. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

CarMax 1121 E Memorial Rd, Edmond 2351 Interstate Dr, Norman carmax.com Offers used cars. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Consignment/Thrift/Resale Stores Clothes Mentor

405-285-8867

3208 S Broadway, Edmond clothesmentor.com/edmond Resale store buying and selling gently-used women’s clothes, shoes, designer purses and accessories, including sizes 0-26, maternity and plus sizes. Provides cash on the spot when buying clothes. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

The Attic

405-513-5611

1110 E 2nd St, Edmond theatticokc.com A local resale store tailored to the specific needs of buying and selling gently-used products at significantly reduced prices. Sells clothes, shoes, jackets, accessories, books, toys and furniture for children ages 1-12. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Bad Granny’s Bazaar

405-528-4585

1759 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City www.facebook.com/badgrannysbazaar Consignment vintage store located in the historic Plaza District in Oklahoma City with a large selection of vendors selling vintage, retro, modern hip and other curious goods. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Sell. Buy. Repeat.

SELL THE TOYS, CLOTHES AND EQUIPMENT YOUR KIDS HAVE OUTGROWN FOR CASH TODAY. SAVE ON THE BRANDS YOU TRUST WITH OUR EVERYDAY LOW PRICES!

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

Just Between Friends (JBF) Consignment Sales

405-794-7804

Held in OKC and Norman www.okc.jbfsale.com Large consignment sales of all things maternity, baby and child held in OKC, Norman and Edmond every spring and fall. Consignors make money on their consigned goods, shoppers save money and local charities receive needed items.

Once Upon a Child

405-286-3114

13801 N Penn Ave, Ste G, Oklahoma City www.onceuponachild.com Resale store that buys and sells gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear.

Grocery Stores to Find Healthy Food Sprouts Farmers Market

Multiple locations www.sprouts.com

A neighborhood grocery store offering thousands of natural, organic and gluten-free food options. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

With bikes and kites and swings and bows and arrows and other things, find all the best toys at learning tree!

Thank you for voting us Best Toy Store

KaZAM Balance Bikes

7638 N. Western, OKC 405-848-1415 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Trader Joe’s

405-843-5655

Forever Young Toy Shoppe

405-402-1548

6409 Avondale Dr, Nichols Hills www.traderjoes.com

Locally-owned, online only store www.squareup.com/store/foreveryoungtoyshoppe

A neighborhood grocery store offering unconventional products and classic staples at affordable prices. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Provides toys for all ages and stages as well as birthday parties with their Forever Friends Workshop where kids make their own stuffed animal. Weights can be added to the animal, which can be helpful for those on the spectrum. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Uptown Grocery Co. 1230 W Covell Rd, Edmond 9515 N May Ave, Oklahoma City www.uptowngroceryco.com

Lakeshore Learning Store

405-858-8778

Grocery destination with deli and fresh food counters and online shopping available. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Educational retailer with educational toys for parents and teachers, including classroom furniture and books. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

6300 N May Ave, Oklahoma City www.lakeshorelearning.com

Toy Stores

the learning tree toys, books & games

405-848-1415

7638 N Western Ave, Oklahoma City www.learningtreeokc.com Specialty toy store working with 450 toy manufacturers to bring parents toys, games and activities that best match the developmental milestones of each child’s age from birth to 14. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Download our app to find the latest from MetroFamily! All the #OKCFamilyFun you can find is just a click away! More at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/app.

Women’s upscale resale

CASH ON THE

All guests will receive free unlimited sno-cones!

SPOT

Splash Bash

7 - 9 p.m. | Friday, July 26

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Pelican Bay Aquatic Center

BEST RESALE SHOP

1034 S. Bryant, Edmond, OK

WE BUY & SELL WOMEN’S CLOTHING • SHOES HANDBAGS • ACCESSORIES

UCO alumni & friends are taking over the water park!

Join us and your fellow Bronchos at this family-friendly event.

General admission is $5, infants (under 30” are free).

SIZES 0-26, PETITE & MATERNITY

Register online at bit.ly/SplashBashUCO

M-F 10-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 1-6 • 405.285.8867 33rd & Broadway, Edmond (Next to Hobby Lobby)

TM

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Restaurants Family-Friendly, Casual Dining

Neighborhood JAM

530 NW 23rd St, Oklahoma City bigtrucktacos.com

15124 Lleyton’s Ct, Edmond 102 W Main St, Norman www.thatsmyjamok.com

Offers a variety of casual Mexican eats and creative tacos at their restaurant and from their food truck. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

A breakfast and brunch restaurant serving up a selection of omelettes, pancakes, biscuits and unique specials like their Bennies. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Big Truck Tacos

405-525-8226

Hideway Pizza

Ted’s Cafe Escondido

Multiple locations www.hideawaypizza.com

Multiple locations tedscafe.com

Hideaway Pizza has been serving up starters, pizzas, pasta, sandwiches and more since 1957. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

A local favorite since 1991, Ted’s serves traditional Tex Mex cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Blaze Pizza 2410 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.blazepizza.com/locations/oklahoma-city Fast fired pizza and salads. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Cafe Kacao

405-602-2883

3325 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City www.cafekacao.com

Cheever’s Cafe

Provides Latin American fusion brunch using recipes that have been handed down for generations. A MetroFamily Family Favorites Honoree.

Empire Slice House

Date Night Restaurants

405-557-1760

1804 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City www.empireslicehouse.com Pizza restaurant and bar in the Plaza District serving New York style pies and pizza by the slice. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-525-7007

2409 N Hudson Ave, Oklahoma City cheeverscafe.com Elegant bistro offering upscale Southwestern and Southern cuisine plus cocktails and wines. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Charleston’s Restaurant Multiple locations charlestons.com

Jimmy’s Egg

A casual, upbeat restaurant featuring traditional American classics prepared from scratch daily. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Multiple locations www.jimmysegg.com

The Melting Pot

Breakfast classics and an expansive menu of other classic diner foods served in a friendly atmosphere. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Louie’s Grill & Bar Multiple locations www.louiesgrillandbar.com A casual American-fare grill and pub serving a variety of mid-priced food and beverages in a come-as-you-are atmosphere. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Off the Hook Seafood and More

405-840-3474

125 W Britton Rd & 1920 S Meridian, Oklahoma City offthehookokc.com Owned by Harris family, the 2019 winners of the Food Network’s Family Food Showdown, this restaurant has a reputation for serving up fresh and unique seafood and sides. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Sunnyside Diner Multiple locations eatatsunnyside.com Diner that serves breakfast and lunch all day. Uses fresh ingredients from locally-baked bread to farm-fresh eggs and house-made brioche and sauces. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

The Sushi Bar Multiple locations (OKC, Edmond, Bricktown) thesushibarokc.com

405-235-1000

4 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City www.meltingpot.com A fondue restaurant that creates an interactive dining experience with artisan cheeses, fresh salads, savory entrees and indulgent desserts. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Places to Eat Sweet Treats Pie Junkie

405-605-8767

1711 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City www.piejunkie.com Makes a variety of pies using quality ingredients like seasonal fruits, luscious chocolate and fresh nuts. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Braum’s Ice Cream & Burger Restaurant Multiple locations www.braums.com Serves up a selection of locally-produced ice cream and burgers alongside a market stocked with grocery staples. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Roxy’s Ice Cream Social Multiple locations, Oklahoma City and Edmond www.roxysicecream.com A colorful ice cream parlor and soda fountain serving cones, sundaes, cookie sandwiches and frozen drinks. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Sushi bar serving sushi and Asian-inspired dishes with late hours and live music on weekends. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Find discounts and kids-eat-free deals at local restaurants here: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-eat-free

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Celebrating our 11th 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 Party Venue

405-340-PLUG • www.unpluggits.com

New Low Impact

Perfect For Players 6 Yrs & Up

y Dodge Cit

L L A B T N I PA 405-373-3745

Fun for the entire family!

Open Year Round

Starting July 8 Hours Monday-Friday, 9am-2pm Harn House Tours at 9:30, 11 & 1

16425 NW 150th, Piedmont

1721 N. Lincoln Boulevard, OKC

Groups & Walk-ons Welcome

okcpaintball.com

405-235-4058

www.harnhomestead.com

Summer is a great time for kids and pets to bond…..

But if your unruly dog is a problem, consider dog training classes as a family (ages 4 & up) or boarding school, perfect for while you’re on vacation. Pick the training that works best for your family!

K9 University 405-231-4335 9217 NW Expressway, OKC facebook.com/MyK9U, Twitter: @K9University,

www.myk9u.com YouTube: K9University

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Parties Party Comes to You (Entertainment) Project Princess

405-777-2411

www.projectprincessok.com Offering costumed characters, princesses and superheroes for parties and events. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Extreme Animals

Metro Gymnastics

Offers staff-led playtime with obstacle courses and other gym features and a private party suite. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Artsy Learning Center - Norman

Offers a unique opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with some of the world’s most beautiful exotic animals and learn about conservation in an engaging way. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

1215 36th Ave NW, Norman www.artsylearningcenter.com

405-693-1937

Artsy Rose Academy

Provides a large selection of character parties with specially trained professional performers, including superheroes and princesses. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

7739 W Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City www.artsyrose.com

405-259-9300

www.mobilelaserforces.com Customizable indoor/outdoor laser tag with different options of play brought to your location. Like paintball but uses taggers that emit a signal that is similar to a television remote. This signal is read by sensors, which are placed on the participants. Packages $150 and up.

Appropriate for ages 6 and up.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

405-343-4064

Offers canvas painting parties for all ages and themed parties such as craft and slime parties or tea parties hosted by a princess for children.

Parties are all inclusive except for the cake.

www.foreverafterparties.com

Mobile Laser Forces

405-848-5308

7420 Broadway Ext, Oklahoma City www.metrogymokc.com

www.extremeanimals.org

Forever After Parties

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

405-413-3157

Party Venues

405-603-8550

Offers themed birthday parties (art, crafts, slime, etc.) for ages 4 and up. Includes a “Shimmers” Snow Cone Party Pack and special gift for the birthday child. Also offers adult painting parties for all occasions.

Dodge City Paintball of OKC

405-373-3745

16425 NW 150th St, Piedmont www.dodgecitypaintball.com Offers standard and low-impact paintball for ages 6 and up.

Playground, picnic area and cooking facilities available. Discounts for groups of 10 and more.

Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge 405-609-3302 421 NW 10th St, Oklahoma City www.dustbowlokc.com Old-fashioned bowling experience in the heart of Midtown with handwritten scorecards and retro decor, perfect for birthday parties and other gatherings. Full food, dessert and beverage menu.

Frontier City

405-478-2140

11501 N I-35 Service Rd, Oklahoma City www.sixflags.com Amusement park that offers a variety of western-themed amusement rides and shows. Birthday parties, corporate events and more. Book online and save 35%. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Goldfish Swim School - Edmond 405-696-7500 10 NW 146th St, Edmond www.goldfishswimschool.com/ edmond Offering a no-hassle party that includes a party coordinator and certified lifeguards.

Attendees enjoy two hours of exclusive use of the indoor swimming facility.

Myriad Botanical Gardens 405-445-7080 301 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City www.myriadgardens.org Children’s birthday party package in a scenic garden setting with add-ons available like handmade popsicles, cookies, lemonade, lawn games and take-home favors.

Parties include a private room and an hour to enjoy soccer and other sports in this indoor sports facility. Packages start at $175; you bring the birthday cake and ice cream.

SkateGalaxy OKC 405-605-2758 5800 NW 36th St, Oklahoma City www.skategalaxyokc.com Offers party packages starting at $119 for 10 children. Includes a party table, paper goods, drinks, one pizza and skating.

Unpluggits Paint & Play 405-340-7584 575 Enterprise Dr, Ste 110, Edmond www.unpluggits.com Offers a private party room, party assistant, a kid-friendly craft and access to the indoor playground. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

White Water Bay 405-943-9687 3908 W Reno, Oklahoma City www.sixflags.com Thirty acres of water fun are available at this water park. Enjoy rides and attractions such as the Big Kahuna, Monsoon Bay Wave Pool, Bermuda Triangle and Castaway Creek. Eight-person minimum and must book 10 days in advance.

Places to Buy Party Food Eileen’s Colossal Cookies Edmond, OKC, Nichols Hills, Yukon eileenscookies.com Cookies by the dozen and custom-decorated cookies. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

321 W 15th St, Edmond www.okiekids.com/parties

Sam’s Club

Choose from private or non-private parties for 20 children. Packages with varying levels of help provided, dates and pricing are available. A MetroFamily Family Favorites Honoree.

Membership-only retail warehouse clubs owned and operated by Walmart. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-920-2121

18509 N Meridian Ave, Edmond www.scoreokc.com This new sports facility offers fun, customizable birthday parties for kids. Includes time on a field and/or court plus 45 minutes in a party room. Multiple packages available.

SoccerCity Oklahoma City 405-748-3888

ThelmaGaylordAcademy.com 405/524-9310 x101

COME SEE: July 20 2:00pm & 7:00pm July 21 2:00pm For tickets call: 405/524-9312

Okie Kids Playground 405-562-4888

Score OKC

C A MPS & CL A SSES A T LYRIC T E A TRE

Multiple locations samsclub.com

Summer Camps Still Available: July 22 -August 2 One Week Camps

Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Dance

FALL ENROLLMENT OPENS JULY 4TH classes start August 19

Auditions for:

Uptown Grocery Co. 1230 W Covell Rd, Edmond 9515 N May Ave, Oklahoma City www.uptowngroceryco.com Locally-owned grocery with deli and fresh food counters. Bakery provides custom- and ready-made cakes of all sizes and flavors. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Scholarships Available for All Productions and Camps

4520 Old Farm Rd, Oklahoma City www.soccercityokcity.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

August 17 - August 18

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Places Attractions, Parks & Things to Do Bricktown Located east and north of EK Gaylord and Reno www.bricktownokc.com Bustling entertainment district near downtown and the Oklahoma River with shops, restaurants, the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, carriage rides and a scenic water taxi. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden

405-424-3344

Andy Alligator’s Fun Park & Water Park

405-321-7275

3300 Market Pl, Norman www.andyalligators.com Amusement park with pay-as-you-go rides, go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, arcade and more, plus a seasonal waterpark. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Breakaway Indoor Playground

405-286-4079

14350 N Lincoln Blvd, Ste 218, Edmond breakawayok.com

2000 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City www.okczoo.org

Indoor playground and party venue for children ages 0-12. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Features hundreds of animal species and expansive botanical gardens, including the new Sanctuary Asia exhibit. Also provides fun family programs and events for all ages and interests from toddlers to adults.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Dodge City Paintball of OKC

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405-373-3745

16425 NW 150th St, Piedmont www.dodgecitypaintball.com Offers standard and low-impact paintball for ages 6 and up.

Playground, picnic area and cooking facilities available. Discounts for groups of 10 and more.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES Frontier City and White Water Bay are big on thrills and big on value with exciting rides, slides, shows, and more.

Book your party online and save over 35% off regular pricing!

!

SAVE BIG GROUPSES AS LOW AS PACKAG

300

$

*

00

PARTY S PLAN YOUR OM/GROUP

.C AT SIXFLAGS

Questions? Visit sixflags.com or email sffcgroupsales@sftp.com

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

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

421 NW 10th • 405.609.3302 dustbowlok.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2019-2020

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge

405-609-3302

405-359-4630

1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond www.edmondparks.com

Old-fashioned bowling experience in the heart of Midtown with handwritten scorecards and retro decor. Serves full food, dessert and beverage menu.

280-acre recreational area with paved trails, a skate park, playgrounds, disc golf and volleyball. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

El Reno Main Street & El Reno Tribune

Myriad Botanical Gardens

www.elrenomainstreet.com www.ercruisers.com

301 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City www.myriadgardens.org

Visit El Reno for several fun family events including July for the 2019 Smoke on the Water Drag Boat Races at Lake El Reno; Christmas on the Western Frontier on Dec. 5, 2019; and El Reno Burger Day held the first Saturday of May, among others. Some events hosted by El Reno Main Street and others by El Reno Tribune.

Offers 15 acres of park space to explore nature including a children’s garden and playground and Crystal Bridge Conservatory. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Frontier City

3000 General Pershing Blvd, Oklahoma City (moving January 2020 to NW 11th and Broadway), www.oklahomacontemporary.org

405-478-2140

11501 N I-35 Service Rd, Oklahoma City www.sixflags.com Amusement park that offers a variety of western-themed amusement rides and shows. Among the attractions are roller coasters, bumper cars, family-friendly rides and Hootie’s Tree House. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Hafer Park

405-359-4630

1034 S Bryant Ave, Edmond www.edmondparks.com

Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center

Spacious park with three playgrounds, a volleyball court, exercise station, kids’ fishing pond, stage and an athletic complex. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

5800 NW 36th St, Oklahoma City www.skategalaxyokc.com

HeyDay Entertainment

Yukon Parks & Recreation

405-310-3500

Entertainment centers with bowling, laser tag, mini golf and more. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Main Event Entertainment

405-751-4900

1441 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.mainevent.com

405-297-1429

5000 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.okc.gov Offers a nature-themed playground, hiking trails, educational programs and an interactive learning center. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Metro Gymnastics

405-951-0000

405-605-2758

Offers free skating lessons, parties and open skate times.

405-350-8937

Various locations www.yukonok.gov/city-departments/parks-recreation In addition to offering parks, swimming pools and splash pads, Yukon Parks offers a wide variety of family fun events and kids activities including Friday Fun Days in the summer held at various parks, Freedom Fest on July 3-4 and more throughout the year.

OKC Area Museums

Offers bowling, laser tag, handcrafted food and more than 110 games.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Martin Park Nature Center

405-445-7080

The new center will feature multiple galleries, classroom studios, theater, a café and outdoor spaces, ensuring that there will always be something new to see and experience. This organization encourages artistic expression and instills appreciation for the arts through a broad range of educational programs, exhibits, performances and cultural offerings.

SkateGalaxy OKC

3201 Market Pl, Norman 200 S Oklahoma Ave, Ste HD, Oklahoma City www.heydayfun.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Mitch Park

421 NW 10th St, Oklahoma City www.dustbowlok.com

405-848-5308

7420 Broadway Ext, Oklahoma City www.metrogymokc.com Offers staff-led playtime with obstacle courses and other gym features and a private party suite. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Science Museum Oklahoma

405-602-6664

2020 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City www.sciencemuseumok.org Offers more than eight acres of hands-on science experiences with thousands of space, aviation and cultural artifacts in the mix. Travel beyond the Milky Way in the Kirkpatrick Planetarium, watch the explosive fun of Science Live and discover where the familiar meets the fantastical in CurioCity, an area designed for the younger set.

Offers a wide variety of hands-on, science-focused galleries and shows. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Harn Homestead

405-235-4058

313 NE 16th St, Oklahoma City www.harnhomestead.com Features an outdoor museum, one-room schoolhouse, the Harn family home and a barn that help visitors experience territorial life of Oklahoma.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

405-478-2250

1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Offers a variety of exhibits highlighting the American West including a Children’s Cowboy Corral and Prosperity Junction, a replica of a turn-of-the-century cattle town.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

405-236-3100

415 Couch Dr, Oklahoma City www.okcmoa.com Features a diverse collection with highlights from North America, Europe and Asia and boasts one of the world’s largest public collections of Dale Chihuly glass, a major collection of photography

by Brett Weston and the definitive museum collection of works by the Washington Color painter Paul Reed. Check out the Discovery Packs with fun art projects and activities to enjoy as children go through the galleries.

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

405-235-3313

620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org Features an outdoor memorial and museum to remember the tragic events of April 19, 1995, the day of the Oklahoma City bombing. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Oklahoma Hall of Fame/ Gaylord-Pickens Museum

405-235-4458

1400 Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City www.oklahomahof.com Features a variety of interactive exhibits focused on Oklahomans and Oklahoma’s unique history.

Oklahoma History Center

405-522-0765

800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, Oklahoma City www.okhistory.org The exhibits at this attraction, many of them interactive, tell the story of the State of Oklahoma, from early American Indians to the current day. The story of Oklahoma uniquely unfolds at this one-of-a-kind museum.

Sam Noble Museum

405-325-4712

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman www.samnoblemuseum.ou.edu Located at the University of Oklahoma, this museum, known by locals as “The Dinosaur Museum,” offers a fun, friendly learning environment about the natural world to children and families using hands-on, interactive experiences. Step back in time and learn about prehistoric animals, habitats and more. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Just about ANYTHING

can happen at the Oklahoma History Center!

Enjoy classes, special events… and much more!

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

www.riversedgecottages.com 580.244.7296

riverfront luxury, astonishing views

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SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology

405-814-0006

580-622-7130

867 Cooper Memorial Dr, Sulphur www.chickasawculturalcenter.com

10301 S Sunnylane Rd, Oklahoma City www.skeletonmuseum.com Features a 7000-square-foot museum with 800 REAL specimens in natural poses and dioramas demonstrating how animals move and interact with their environments. Touch tables, scavenger hunts, videos and signage add to the educational fun for all ages.

Serves as the cultural home of the Chickasaw Nation, with world-class exhibits, Anoli’ Theater, events throughout the year and more.

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center & 580-252-6692 Garis Gallery of the American West 1000 Chisholm Trail Pkwy, Duncan www.onthechisholmtrail.com

Family Fun Outside OKC The Gathering Place

Chickasaw Cultural Center

918-779-1000

2650 S John Williams Way E, Tulsa gatheringplace.org Opened in September 2018, this amazing public park was voted best new attraction in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice contest.

Offers numerous imaginative play areas, canoes to rent and much more. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

A unique museum full of interactive exhibits, experience theater and multi-million dollar art gallery, helping visitors understand the American West and especially the Chisholm Trail. Find info about events on Facebook.

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum 405-382-0950 1714 OK-9, Seminole www.jasminemoran.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Offers 42,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space full of hands-on activities for kids such as the Dino Dig Pit, Magnet Wall, McKid TV, creativity area and a large outdoor play area. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Stafford Air & Space Museum

580-772-5871

White Water Bay

405-943-9687

3000 E Logan Rd, Weatherford www.staffordmuseum.org

3908 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City www.whitewaterbay.com

Showcases thousands of items representing the evolution of aviation and spaceflight, including a 10-story Titan II rocket, an Apollo Command & Service Module and space suits, including one worn by namesake Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford during the Apollo 10 mission.

Offers more than 25 acres of water rides, slides, dive-in movies and attractions. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge 580-429-3222 32 Refuge Headquarters Rd, Indiahoma www.fws.gov/refuge/wichita_mountains/ Offers hiking, wildlife watching, fishing and more. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-445-7080

301 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com/plan-your-visit/ water-features/ Thunder Fountain is open May through September annually, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Also offers 15 acres of park space to explore nature including a children’s garden and playground and Crystal Bridge Conservatory. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Pelican Bay Aquatic Center

405-216-7649

1034 S Bryant Ave, Edmond www.pelicanbayaquatics.com

214-748-1200

2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX www.hiltonanatolehotel.com Offers a luxury resort stay with exclusive access to JadeWaters, the resort’s pool complex.

580-244-7296

491 Rivers Edge Rd, Watson, OK www.riversedgecottages.com Offers luxury cabin rentals on the Mountain Fork River in southeast Oklahoma. Voted number one most romantic getaway in Oklahoma.

Best Family Restrooms OnCue www.oncueexpress.com

In addition to a large community pool, this complex offers a variety of water play options for all ages including a splash pad, wading areas, slides, lazy river and a climbing wall. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Barnett Field Splash Pad

Hilton Anatole

Rivers Edge Cottages

Places to Swim/Splash Pads Myriad Botanical Gardens

Travel Destinations

405-359-4630

Okie Kids Playground www.okiekids.com/parties

Science Museum Oklahoma www.sciencemuseumok.org

N Kelly Ave & W Main St, Edmond www.visitedmondok.com A 3,000 square foot water park open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Goldfish Swim Schools - Edmond 405-696-7500 10 NW 146th St, Edmond www.goldfishswimschool.com/programs/family-swim Although best known as a swimming lesson facility, Goldfish also offers Family Swim times for the entire family on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from noon-1 p.m. and Friday from 6:30-8 p.m. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Piedmont Community Park/Splash Pad 130 Gooder Simpson Blvd, Piedmont www.piedmontcommunitypark.com Splash pad hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Service Providers Car Repair Jimmy’s Auto Service

Art & Soul Photography 405-341-1484

205 W 2nd St, Edmond Provides complete auto repair including alignments, air conditioning, engines, transmissions and tune ups. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Christian Brothers Automotive Multiple locations www.cbac.com A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Firestone Complete Auto Care

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Multiple locations www.firestonecompleteautocare.com

Specializes in creative, colorful photography of children and families.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Brandon Burton Photographer & Mentor

Specializing in newborns, kids and weddings. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

FotoArts Photography

Specializes in children photography, weddings, events, family photography and senior portraits.

Family/Child Photographers

Wymer Brownlee Wealth Strategies

Specializes in children and family photography. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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405-326-1533

www.fotoartsphotography.com

Financial Services

Robyn Waggoner Photography 405-474-0263

405-757-9470

www.bbpstudiosok.com

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

robynwaggonerphotography.blogspot.com

405-401-3714

www.angelporchphotography.com

405-748-4000

13900 N Portland, Ste 210, Oklahoma City www.wymerbrownlee.com Provides integrated financial strategies for families and businesses.

By combining wealth management, tax preparation, accounting and business consulting, clients can understand the bigger financial picture and use their resources to build the life and legacy they want.

Home Services

Affordable Plumbing

Assurance Inspection Services

405-921-3895

121 NE 52nd St, Ste 291, Oklahoma City homeinspectionsok.com

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Call Us First Home Inspection LLC

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Ground Zero Shelters, Co.

877-880-1351

1824 SE 22nd St, Oklahoma City www.groundzeroshelters.com

405-259-1176

6908 Briarcreek Dr, Oklahoma City cufhi.com A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

FlatSafe Tornado Storm Shelters

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Paul Little Construction

405-804-1844

7210 Broadway Ext, #107, Oklahoma City www.paullittleconstruction.com

Prudhom Heat & Air Conditioning LLC

405-285-5757

100 NE 37th St, Oklahoma City prudhomhvac.com

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-586-4483

www.yourhivehelper.com A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Oklahoma Shelters

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-609-1509

1200 Industrial Dr, Yukon flatsafe.com

Hive Helper

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-396-8347

Multiple locations okcaffordableplumbing.com

405-367-7901

2501 SW 15th St, Oklahoma City www.oklahomashelters.net A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

We help growing families flourish.

> Prioritize and pay down debt. > Save for college and family vacations.

> Teach good financial habits.

WymerBrownlee.com * Kyle Brownlee, Senior Wealth Advisor. Securities offered through HD Vest

Investment ServicesÂŽ, Member FINRA/SIPC, Advisory services offered through HD Vest Advisory ServicesÂŽ, Insurance services offered through HD Vest Insurance Agency, LLC. Wymer Brownlee Wealth Strategies is not a registered broker/dealer or registered investment advisory firm.

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EVERYTHING GUIDE

Redus Heating & Air Conditioning 405-373-2622

Thrive Mama Collective

1612 Mustang Rd NE, Piedmont www.facebook.com/Redusheatandair/

1745 NW 16th St, Ste A, Oklahoma City thrivemamacollective.com

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Offers a holistic approach to wellness from pregnancy to postpartum to parenting issues. Among their many services are prenatal and postpartum massage, counseling and mama meet ups. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Shockley’s Heat & Air

405-685-4603

820 Preston Park Dr, Yukon shockleysheatair.com

Pet Services

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Sooner Home Inspections LLC

405-792-0407

1616 NW 164th Cir, Edmond soonerhomeinspection.com

Places for Pampering Moms (spa, etc.)

Bella Strada Salon & Spa Suites 405-513-5757 3224 S Broadway, #100, Edmond www.bellastradasalon.com Beauty salon providing hair care, skin care, massage therapy and more. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

405-751-3424

13100 N Western Ave, #201, Oklahoma City advancedaesthetics.com Medical spa providing medical grade skincare, lasers, injectables and body contouring. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

405 Vet Animal Hospital (Dr. Jarrod Roach)

405-562-4998

7101 NW 150th St, Ste 108, Oklahoma City www.405vet.com

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Advanced Aesthetics

405-356-6262

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Dedicated to providing the highest level of animal care. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Danforth Animal Hospital

405-340-1020

800 E Danforth Rd, Edmond www.danforthanimal.com Animal hospital providing complete veterinary services. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Edmond East Animal Hospital

405-701-9000

5825 E Covell Rd, Edmond www.edmondeastvet.com Offers veterinary care for the pets of Edmond and surrounding areas including general medicine, vaccinations and surgery. Also services exotic pets. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

K9 University Dog Training

405-231-4335

Crestone Ridge Neighborhood

405-204-0678

9217 NW Expy, Oklahoma City www.myk9u.com

Located east of Kilpatrick Turnpike off of Wilshire www.crestoneridge.com

Offers dog training from the basics to advanced including puppy training, group training, private lessons and boarding school. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Family-friendly neighborhood with new houses for sale and lots to buy to customize your next home with one of their builders. Other amenities are the easy-access location, Yukon Public Schools and neighborhood swimming pool and clubhouse.

The Pawparazzi Lounge

405-341-0057

3724 E 2nd St, Ste A, Edmond www.pawparazzilounge.com

Guhl Family Realty LLC

Offers dog daycare and overnight lodging. 5,000 square feet of indoor space and fun, safe activities for dogs. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Offering professional and personalized residential real estate services throughout the OKC metro area. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Realtors and Builders

Sergeant Team Keller Williams

David L. Sterling, Realtor

405-315-6060

www.guhlrealty.com

405-606-5791

3232 W Britton Rd, Unit 277, Oklahoma City www.davidsterling.realtor

405-812-1204

10 E Campbell St, Edmond okhomeguide.com Real estate consultants in Edmond. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Dedicated to clients and their needs in searching for a new home, selling a property or looking to invest. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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Special Needs Therapy Providers

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Sensational Kids, Inc.

Encouraging Words 405-840-1686

14715 Bristol Park Blvd, Oklahoma City 5701 SE 74th St, Oklahoma City 1445 Health Center Pkwy, Yukon www.sensationalkidsokc.com Provides occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language therapy for children of all ages and abilities. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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405-578-4442

2949 W Hefner Rd, Oklahoma City encouragingwordsok.com A collaborative therapy center for ages 5-18 with academic language therapists and speech-language pathologists who are highly trained in dyslexia and related disorders. Therapies utilize research- and evidence-based instruction techniques. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Therapy & Beyond

405-777-0940

13905 Technology Dr, Ste A-1, Oklahoma City www.therapyandbeyond.com/project/aba-therapy-inoklahoma-city-2/

certified to consult with parents using the Certified Sanity School for Parents program, one that focuses on helping parents who have kids with ADHD or other executive function challenges, learning disabilities, sensory processing issues and anxiety.

Offers intensive, individualized ABA therapy and speech therapy. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Special Hospital Facility

Total Poss-Abilities

J. D. McCarty Center for Children 405-307-2800 with Developmental Disabilities

405-607-4440

2917 NW 156th St, Edmond www.totalposs-abilities.com Services include pediatric occupational therapy to assist people living with illness, injury or disability. Specializes in helping children with Sensory Processing Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Delays.

A pediatric rehab hospital specializing in kids with developmental disabilities from birth to age 21. Provides inpatient and outpatient services in physical, occupational, speech and language therapy.

Other Programs

Specialized Counseling Goett Focused

2002 E Robinson, Norman www.jdmc.org

405-826-6993

cathy@goettfocused.com www.goettfocused.com Program designed by Certified Life Coach Cathy Goett to help those with ADHD (of all ages) thrive and find their true potential. Also is

Yukon Parks: Spirit League

405-350-8937

www.yukonok.gov/city-departments/parks-recreation/ programs Sports league for children and youth of varying abilities featuring sports of baseball, indoor soccer, bowling, kayaking and basketball.

AUTISM TREATMENT CENTER ABA & SPEECH THERAPY

YUKON LOCATION NOW OPEN! 1445 Health Center Parkway Call (405) 840-1686 to schedule an evaluation!

Thank you for voting us Best Special Needs Therapy Service Provider!

INSURANCE ACCEPTED CENTER-BASED & IN HOME

844-422-2669

THERAPYANDBEYOND.COM

Our therapists provide fun, inventive and playful interventions that address your child's specific needs. We offer physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech language therapy.

Play • Learn • Thrive

www.SensationalKidsOKC.com

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Pregnancy & Baby Resources Baby Boutiques Green Bambino

Birthing Centers 405-848-2330

405-755-1515

5120 N Shartel Ave, Oklahoma City www.greenbambino.com OKC’s baby store featuring an assortment of diapers, car seats, baby equipment, toys, clothing and gifts. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Provides family centered mother-baby services that address the needs of mothers, babies and their families. Services provided by a multidisciplinary medical team and the reassurance of an on-site neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for unexpected complications. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Cinnamon Bears

405-330-2327

610 S Kelly Ave, Ste L, Edmond www.facebook.com/cinnamonbears2005/ A children’s boutique offering unique room décor, clothing and baby gear. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Thrive Mama Collective

405-356-6262

1745 NW 16th St, Ste A, Oklahoma City thrivemamacollective.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Mercy Hospital 4300 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City www.mercy.net

Offers unique, one-of-a-kind products for baby and mother, and a holistic approach to wellness via consultants who are experts in pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

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The Edmond Birthing Center, LLC 405-286-4069 14901 N Kelley Ave, #102, Edmond www.edmondbirthcenter.com Holistic pregnancy and birth services, water birth, VBAC, wellwoman services, education and meet ups and retail for pregnancy and birth. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Lakeside Women’s Hospital

405-936-1500

11200 N Portland Ave, Oklahoma City lakeside-wh.com Offers compassionate care and specialized women’s health services especially well-woman visits, pregnancy and childbirth, gynecological surgery and menopausal care. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Elective Non-Medical Ultrasound Businesses The Nest OKC 405-362-6378 16216 Whispering Winds Ln, Edmond thenestokc4d.com Mobile ultrasound provider in Oklahoma City. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

The Viewing Womb 405-696-5559 5200 Traditions Blvd, Edmond theviewingwomb.com Uses the newest innovation in ultrasound technology to deliver the best possible image.

A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Midwives Community Midwifery Services LLC 405-447-9433 Oklahoma City, Norman, Shawnee cmsmidwife.com A group-centered practice providing midwifery service to the community.

Dedicated to the education, support and care of women in the childbearing years and beyond. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Taryn Goodwin

405-413-7337

www.spiritedbirth.com Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) offering services to Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Moore, Guthrie, El Reno and surrounding areas. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Dawn Karlin/Bliss Birth Services 405-306-4168 1745A NW 16th St, Oklahoma City www.blissbirthok.com Serving families as a midwife and a doula. A MetroFamily Family Favorites honoree.

Other Variety Care Health Centers 405-632-6688 Thirteen locations www.varietycare.org Quality, affordable pregnancy and newborn care. Offers unique services for busy or worried new parents, including walk-in care from a neonatologist for infants up to 2 months of age at 4023 NW 10th St location (call for details). Welcomes SoonerCare, Medicare, many private insurance plans and patients without insurance. A sliding fee scale adjusts fees based on household size and income for patients who qualify.

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Click on Register for Classes!

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(405) 359-4630

the Everything guide

2019-2020

Westminster School An independent, coeducational, nonsectarian day school with students in PreK through eighth grade. The school’s mission is to educate children by engaging them actively in experiences that challenge students to solve problems as cooperative, confident and responsible learners.

405-524-0631 600 NW 44 St, Oklahoma City www.westminsterschool.org

This indoor sports facility in NW OKC offers Lil’ Kickers soccer instruction program for toddlers through age 9 throughout the year in addition to leagues, tournaments, camps during summer and all school breaks, clinics and training times for soccer and other indoor sports for all ages. They also offer fun birthday party packages that include a private room and field time for soccer or other sports.

Chosen by MetroFamily readers as a Family Favorite honoree for Sports Leagues and Day Camps/Sport.

SoccerCity Oklahoma City 405-748-3888 4520 Old Farm Rd, Oklahoma City www.soccercityokcity.com

Family Favorites

egg, larva, to adult. thepupa Everything guide

2019-2020

Primrose School of Edmond 405-285-6787 15000 N Western Ave, Edmond www.primroseschools.com/schools/edmond/ Known as a leader in early childhood education, Primrose School of Edmond offers their proprietary Balanced Learning curriculum with carefully blended child-initiated and teacher-directed activities. Children who experience their program are proven to be better prepared for school learning. Their goal is to create natural learners, curious about the world.

Provides full-time day care for infants through Kindergarten plus care for elementary school kids via after-school and summer programs.

BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:

Find a great new neighborhood with plenty of family-friendly amenities at Crestone Ridge, located east of the Kilpatrick Turnpike off of Wilshire.

And in one magic moment, a scientist is born.

• New houses for sale

• Lots for sale to build your customized home • Easy-access location

• Yukon Public Schools

• Swimming pool and clubhouse

Crestone Ridge Neighborhood 405-204-0678

SEE BALANCED LEARNING IN ACTION. CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY!

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.

1/3 horizontal: 7.125” X 3.084”

Have a problem dog?

Don’t despair!

We can help!

K9 University 405-231-4335 9217 NW Expressway, OKC facebook.com/MyK9U, Twitter: @K9University, www.myk9u.com YouTube: K9University

• Dog training classes for the entire family (ages 4 and up) • Dog boarding with intensive training • Focused on all dog issues, from simple to complex

NewView Oklahoma serves as the only private in-state provider of comprehensive services for people of all ages with significant vision loss that cannot be corrected with glasses, surgery or medication. Also provides youth and adult programs, summer camps and peer-groups and is the largest employer of blind and visually-impaired persons in the state.

NewView Oklahoma 855-811-9699 Low Vision Center: 4301 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City www.NVOklahoma.org

OWL (Oklahomans Without Limits) Camp is NewView Oklahoma’s free summer camp for kids ages 8-18, who are blind and visually impaired.

the Everything guide

2019-2020

Oklahoma Swim Academy 405-509-5415

Two locations: Key Fit Club, 14701 N Kelly Ave, Edmond Coming Soon! 15001 Gambels Trail Dr. OKC, OK www.oklahomaswim.com From infant survival swim lessons to stroke development, Oklahoma Swim Academy teaches all ages a love of safe swimming. Their private lesson program uses a unique approach, customizing each lesson to the student’s needs and giving them the confidence to succeed. With a tagline of “Swim with Purpose” they teach infants and toddlers to self-rescue in case of an aquatic accident, give parents peace of mind, and give 10% of their profits back to OKC Metro communities through local charities and individuals in need. Family owned and operated, Oklahoma Swim Academy offers year-round programs including private swimming lessons (infant through adult), parent-tot classes and adaptive aquatics.

ScoreOKC invites everyone to be a part of both programs and leagues involving soccer, volleyball, futsal, basketball, dodgeball, and more. Also, you can take advantage of this incredible environment by having your child’s birthday party at the facility. The atmosphere is electric and you’ll want to come back again!

Score OKC 405-920-2121 18509 N Meridian Ave • Edmond www.scoreokc.com

Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge 405-609-3302 421 NW 10th St, OKC www.dustbowllounge.com/okc/ Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge is a 12-lane family friendly bowling alley in Oklahoma City’s growing Midtown neighborhood. The 12,000 square foot facility, which includes a lounge, a full-service bar and a VIP room, is a retro-inspired tribute to the classic bowling alley of the 1970s. This unique entertainment destination can accommodate a variety of parties including kids birthday parties, team building events, holiday parties, group outings and much more.

Goldfish Swim School 405-696-7500 10 NW 146th St, Edmond www.goldfishswimschool.com/ edmond/ Unlike typical swim lessons that lock you into a set day and time for a predetermined session, the Perpetual Lessons model at Goldfish Swim School lets you choose a lesson time that fits your family’s schedule and allows you to pay month-to-month, rather than requiring you to pay for a multi-month session in advance. Offering yearround swim lessons for children of all abilities, ages 4 months to 12 years, Goldfish Swim School has a variety of programs to help your child develop the important life skill. Low studentto-teacher-ratios ensure every child incredible swimming experience in the safest and most fun environment possible.

Ask about their birthday parties and Family Swim events.

the Everything guide

2019-2020

Metro Gymnastics 405-848-5308 7420 N Broadway Ste A, OKC www.metrogymokc.com For the eighth year in a row, Metro Gymnastics been named “best gymnastics facility” and “best party venue” as a Family Favorite by Metro Family readers. In its 38th year, Metro Gymnastics offers innovative gymnastics and tumbling classes for walking toddlers, preschoolers and school age children as well as a competitive team. Metro Gymnastics’ instructors work hard to make sure each child feels successful, providing an organized and clearly-outlined curriculum with monthly lesson plans and creative themes. If you are looking for a twist to your workout, youth and adult aerial silks classes are a unique way to build strength and flexibility. They also offer gymnastics and aerial silks birthday parties! Each 90-minute party is led by a designated staff member and will be a party to remember! Metro Gymnastics’ toddler open gym time, which was voted one of the best places for toddlers, is a special time for parents to create memories with their toddler in a safe, fun and friendly environment.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 405-478-2250 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC www.nationalcowboymuseum.org The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers many educational, ageappropriate exhibits and programs that offer families the chance to explore images and artifacts unique to the American West. Coming in spring 2020 is Liichokoshkomo’! (the Chickasaw phrase for “Let’s play”), which is a world-class, outdoor, hands-on learning environment, where the diverse stories of the West come alive. Their special events, camps and family programs offer hands-on, educational opportunities to explore what life was like in the early years.

Andy Alligator’s Fun Park & Water Park 405-321-7275 3300 Market Place, Norman, Oklahoma 73072 www.andyalligators.com Andy Alligator’s Fun Park is open year-round and is an ideal location for a family outing or birthday party. The 8-acre facility offers a combination of indoor and outdoor attractions including Go-Karts, Sky Coaster, Mini Golf, Laser Tag and more as well as party rooms, a Café and Pizzeria. One of the Fun Park’s latest and most popular attractions is LumberAxe at Andy’s, geared towards the park’s adult guests. Andy’s LumberAxe provides experienced “axeperts” to teach the basics of axe throwing and guide groups through a series of fun and competitive games.

Andy Alligator’s Water Park is Oklahoma’s newest family waterpark with more than four acres of aquatic family fun.

Andy’s Water Park features multiple slides and play areas for guests of all ages and offers Private Cabana rentals .

The water park operates seasonally with approximately 100 operating days. Andy Alligator’s is located at 3300 Market Place Drive, Norman, Oklahoma 73072. Call today to find out more (405) 321-7275 or visit Andy Alligators on Facebook.

Aqua Tots Swim School 405-721-1871

8405 N Rockwell Ave, Ste 1-4, OKC www.aqua-tots.com/locations/usa/oklahoma/oklahoma-city/ Aqua Tots Swim School offers a variety of levels of swim instruction year-round, including mommy and me swims, swim clubs and private lessons as well as lessons for adults and students with special needs. Incorporating self-save, learn-to-swim strategies and more, class sizes are capped at four students, ensuring that each child has maximum swim time during the 30-minute sessions. Parents are provided individualized feedback after each lesson on their student’s progress. Their fast track swim camps are designed to jump start swim skills and are perfect for new swimmers and beyond.

the Everything guide

2019-2020

Artsy Rose Academy 405-603-8550 7739 W Hefner Rd, OKC www.artsyrose.com Offering an assortment of art activities for all ages, Artsy Rose believes everyone – young and old – should celebrate their creativity, originality and imagination through the wonderful world of art. Enjoy art camps, craft classes, social painting events and art lessons using a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpting and more. Artsy Rose also hosts parties for all ages including adults and open paint times in the evenings and on weekends.

Ask about their fundraisers called “Creativity for a Cause.”

Birthday parties at Artsy Rose provide creative fun for kids.

The Chickasaw Cultural Center (580) 622-7130 867 Cooper Memorial Drive www.chickasawculturalcenter.com Experience Native culture at the Chickasaw Cultural Center Visitors to the Chickasaw Cultural Center are immersed in the vibrant and dynamic culture of the Chickasaw people.

Features on the 184-acre campus include an interactive exhibit hall, traditional village, large-format theatre, art galleries, outdoor sculptures, café, honor garden, water features, an amphitheater and a genealogy and research library.

Chickasaws share their culture, history and heritage through art, music, dance, language and film.

Demonstrations of traditions from bow-making to beading and gardening offer guests a chance to develop a personal connection with Chickasaw culture.

These fun and educational events intermingle Chickasaw culture and traditions into the daily festivities.

A variety of unique experiences tailored for each season can be discovered at the Chickasaw Cultural Center.

For more information, call (580) 622-7130 or visit www.chickasawculturalcenter.com

The Chickasaw Cultural Center, 867 Cooper Memorial Drive, is open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon - 5 p.m. (except federal holidays).

Childcare Network 800-432-1806 www.childcarenetwork.com

Childcare Network is comprised of six child development centers in Edmond and Oklahoma City and serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years. Nationally accredited, their centers are also three-star rated through the “Reaching for the Stars” program administered by OKDHS. Childcare Network uses the HighReach

Learning curriculum. Their Kindergarten Prep Academy for ages 4 and 5 who are heading to kindergarten the following school year, provides a quality curriculum to prepare them for success in their first year of school. Parttime care not available. Before & after care available.

City of Yukon Parks & Recreation 405.350.8937 532 W. Main Street www.yukonok.gov

“Yukon’s Best” Parks and Recreation Department features a well-rounded variety of family oriented activities offered throughout the year. The award winning City of Yukon Parks and Recreation Department oversees

three recreational facilities, three aquatic facilities, 12 beautiful parks and over 20 annual special events. Yukon offers it all. There are programs for toddlers, seniors, and everyone in between.

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Offering children ages 4 and 5 an imaginative ballet education through a magical story-based environment. Fall classes focus on “Enchanted Forest� theme. Beginning and ending in a cozy little forest cove within the studio, students in the Enchanted Forest program learn classical ballet.

Each week, children discover a note from Rusalka, the fairy queen of the Enchanted Forest, asking for their assistance with new happenings in her forest.

Their journey weaves together themes of nature, beautiful classical music, ballet techniques and friendship skills. Classical ballet technique classes are age-appropriate for a variety of skill levels, beginning in Kindergarten all the way up to High Scool. Fall classes begin August 12. All students perform annually in an original full-length story ballet with professional sets and costumes.

Pure Classical Technique

CLASSICAL BALLET SCHOOL

All-Inclusive Tuition

Enroll Now!

405.755.5540 classicalballetschoolokc.com

David L. Sterling, M.B.A., Realtor® Metro First Realty at Lake Hefner 405-606-5791 3232 W. Britton Rd, Ste. 277 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 www.davidsterling.realtor “As a Realtor® born and raised in Oklahoma, I have spent the better part of 20 years directly in the Oklahoma City area; and I currently reside in Edmond, OK with my family. I specialize in representing clients in the purchase and sale of single-family residences within the Oklahoma City Metro area. I have experience as a custom homebuilder, as well as, extensive knowledge of the renovation process for both existing homes and rental properties. This experience has allowed me to work with real estate investors of all sizes. I truly love this area and pride myself on my knowledge of current market trends, school districts, neighborhood information and related services, including mortgage, insurance and inspection information.

I am excited to be a Realtor® and look forward to sharing my skills with you and making sure your real estate needs are not only met but that you have a smooth and rewarding experience. Real estate is fun! It doesn’t have to be the nightmare story so many people tell. Call me, and let’s discuss your specific needs.”

Oklahoma City Museum of Art 405-236-3100 415 Couch Drive, OKC, OK 73102 www.okcmoa.com The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is one of the leading arts institutions in the region. The Museum presents a dynamic range of exhibitions organized from prestigious museums and collections throughout the world. The Museum’s own diverse collection features highlights from North America, Europe, and Asia, with particular strengths in American art and postwar abstraction. The permanent collection also boasts one of the world’s largest public collections of Dale Chihuly glass, a major collection of photography by Brett Weston, and the definitive museum collection of works by the Washington Color painter Paul Reed.

Families will enjoy using the Museum’s Discovery Packs, included with admission, to create their own gallery adventure.

Available for pick up on every floor, Discovery Packs open up a new world at OKCMOA with fun, hands-on gallery learning!

Sketch, read, learn about artists, and more. The Museum also features art activity stations on the second and third floors inspired by the artworks on view.

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Studio J School of Dance 405-348-3377 420 S Santa Fe Ave, Edmond www.studiojdanceok.com Studio J offers students of all ages and abilities the opportunity to express themselves and their faith through the gift of dance. We seek to instill a love of dance, music, community, and the appreciation of the performing arts in our students. Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Clogging classes are taught by dedicated instructors with a combined 85 years of professional experience. Students also learn respect, responsibility, and the reward of hard work while preserving their spirit and positive body image in a safe and loving environment. All performances are family friendly experiences. In addition to regular classes & camps, Studio J offers dedicated dancers the opportunity to participate in competition classes and workshops as part of the award winning Studio J Company. Our new facility houses four separate dance rooms, each with state-of-the-art flooring, as well as a large waiting/viewing area with closed circuit cameras in all rooms. At Studio J, we believe it is an honor and a privilege to serve your family! Studio J is a Family Favorite Honoree

Destiny Christian School 405-677-6000

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

3801 SE 29th Street, OKC, OK 73115 destinywildcats.com Destiny Christian School has served children and families in the greater OKC area for nearly 40 years. Thousands of students have walked the halls of our school, learning to read, write, and think critically in an atmosphere of loving discipline not often found today. While our world changes rapidly and we continue to expand our campus, adding new high school classrooms, science and technology labs, and more athletic facilities just in the last few years, our foundational core values and commitment to an education of excellence has not changed. At DCS, we believe in learning beyond books, loving beyond words, and living beyond tomorrow. Our ultimate goal is to help each individual find God’s very best plan for their life and future.

You may wonder why it is important to choose a Christian education for your child over the many other educational choices available today. The three key institutions that shape a child’s life from a very early age are the home, the church and the school. Children are best served when all three institutions point them in the same direction. Only an education that has the liberty to address the whole child -

social, intellectual, emotional, physical AND spiritual - reaches students and empowers them to be successful in every area of life.

Visit our website for more information or contact the school office to make an appointment with a member of our administrative team to discuss the benefits of Destiny Christian School for your family.

Farrow & Dewbre 405.826.0464 1370 E. 15th St, Edmond, OK www.farrowdewbre.com At Farrow & Dewbre Orthodontics, we take pride in creating an energetic and fun environment in which our patients receive the very best orthodontic care from a compassionate orthodontic team. As a Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider, we appreciate a patients desire for less visible treatment options and have seen amazing smile transformations with the use of aligners. We also offer the option of Damon Smile braces. Damon braces (self-ligating brackets) reduce the amount of pressure exerted on the teeth, allowing them to move more freely, quickly and comfortably. Thanks to these innovative new treatment options, achieving your perfect smile can be faster and easier than you ever thought possible! From your first visit to your last, Dr. Farrow and Dr. Dewbre will keep you informed of your progress. The relationship between the patient and doctor is truly a partnership in striving for a common goal: to achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime!

The Sooner Theatre & The Studio of The Sooner Theatre 405-321-9600 101 E Main St & 110 E Main St, Norman www.soonertheatre.com The Sooner Theatre is a historical landmark that was resurrected 15 years ago and has become a source of entertainment and education for thousands in the south Metro and surrounding communities. Their offerings of live theatrical productions, an eclectic range of national concert artists, youth theatrical productions and performing arts classes have helped cultivate a thriving theatre community in Norman.

The Sooner Theatre now owns a second historic building in Norman’s downtown arts district which houses The Studio of The Sooner Theatre. The Studio, which started as one summer camp with 31 students 15 years ago, provides more than 55 year-round performing arts camps and classes for almost 1000 students in the metro area.

Come see us for a great evening of theatre, an intimate concert setting, a high-energy children’s theatre production or ignite the passion of your young performer with a camp or class!

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Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum 405-235-4458 1400 Classen Dr, OKC www.oklahomahof.com Experience Oklahoma’s story through its people at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Gaylord-Pickens Museum. Located in Historic Heritage Hills near Midtown, you can learn about those individuals from across the state who have received Oklahoma’s Highest Honor and step into the gilded frames of the Members who have created Oklahoma History. As the Official Museum of Free Family Fun, you can visit the museum for free throughout the year during Spring Thing, Summer Thursdays, and Fall Y’All, where you can enjoy crafts, movies and special themed activities. Follow us on social media @oklahomahof to learn everything about the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.

Edmond Pediatric & Teen Dentistry is a safe, modern & fun environment for children to receive the highest quality of dental care available. We believe in shaping a positive experience for your child so they look forward to and love coming to the dentist!

Edmond Pediatric & Teen Dentistry 405-513-8811 101 S SAINTS BOULEVARD, SUITE 212 www.edmondkidsdentist.com

Heritage Hall 405-749-3001 1800 NW 122nd St, OKC www.heritagehall.com

TO LEARN • TO LEAD • TO SERVE

Oklahoma History Center 405-522-0765 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC www.okhistory.org Explore Oklahoma from prehistoric records and artifacts to current technology and modern innovations developed in the “Sooner State” and the Oklahoma History Center. Experience Smithsonian-quality exhibits with more than 2,000 artifacts in five galleries leading visitors on a journey through Oklahoma’s inspiring and adventurous past.

The museum also offers classroom quality programs for all ages including: • Children’s Programs • Okietales Reading Time • Crafts • Field Trips • Educational Scavenger Hunt • Junior Curator Camp Teacher’s/Parent’s Programs • National History Day Boot Camp • Introductory Crafts Classes • Advanced Skills Instruction • Traveling Trunk Program

Established in 1969, Heritage Hall is a co-educational college preparatory school in Oklahoma City. The secular private school offers a challenging academic curriculum for students from preschool through grade 12, as well as unique leadership opportunities, a wide spectrum of athletics and a well-developed fine arts program. Heritage Hall challenges students to realize their fullest potential at every step of their lifelong, educational journey.

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Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma 405-528-4475 info@gswestok.org www.gswestok.org Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma aims to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place, across central, southwest and northwest regions of Oklahoma. Through leadership-building programs, GSWESTOK offers girls pathways to explore their interests - including STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), healthy lifestyles and activities like our High Adventure Team and summer camps, and community service projects through our Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. These programs help girls make good decisions, appreciate diversity and contribute to the community. Our unique all-girl environment gives girls the right setting to achieve their goals!

And we have so many different options for ways to get involved. We of course have the traditional Troops that you instantly think of, but we also have other opportunities to make each girl’s experience her own. Sometimes life gets

The Goddard School 405-348-4442 17440 N. Western Ave. Edmond, OK 73012 www.goddardschool.com Powered by STEAM, Fueled by fun. Our playbased curriculum is grounded in academic research that shows children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun. We provide ample opportunities for fun learning experiences in the classroom and in outdoor learning spaces, promoting a lifelong love of learning in literacy, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

We also offer a wide range of enrichment programs such as Chess, Spanish, Soccer, Dance, Gardening and more! Learning for fun. Learning for life. Come experience the Goddard difference and join our family today!

EDMOND • 17440 N. Western Avenue • 405-348-4442 GoddardSchool.com

busy with all the activities and being part of a traditional troop doesn’t work with your schedule – that’s where becoming a Juliette allows her to be a part of Girl Scouts and choose which things she wants to do. It’s important to remember, Girl Scouts serves girls from kindergarten through 12th grade. Which is why we are excited about our new middle school Troops in the Oklahoma City Public School district! Girls have the opportunity to learn more about anti-bullying, being entrepreneurs and financial literacy, plus more that they want to learn about like STEM and the outdoors.

We believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ to change the world.

J. D. McCarty Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities 405-307-2800 2002 East Robinson, Norman www.jdmc.org The J. D. McCarty Center is a pediatric rehab hospital specializing in children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 21. They provide inpatient and outpatient services in the physical, occupational, speech and language therapies that these kids need to reach their highest level of function and independence. When the hospital was first established, they only treated one diagnosis—cerebral palsy.

Today, they have seen more than 100 different diagnoses in the developmental disability category. Kids with CP continue to be seen at the hospital, but other kids may be on the Autism spectrum, have Down Syndrome or have another diagnosis.

J. D. McCarty has been in operation since 1946 and is the only hospital like it in Oklahoma. Call and ask to speak to a social worker for more information about a free therapeutic screening.

Enroll in Kumon today!

Kumon Math and Reading Kumon sets your kids up for success by helping them build an 1-800-ABC-MATH academic advantage in math, reading, and all the habits they’ll need to succeed in school.

7 Metro Locations www.kumon.com

Kumon Math and Reading Centers

S GIVE YOUR KID

TAGES N A V D A T R A SM ETIME. THAT LAST A LIF

Kumon is a structured, proven self-learning program that gives child the critical thinking OKLAHOMA CITY -skills NORTH •and 405-752-2000 EDMOND - NORTHyour • 405-715-1111 to learn new independently.

TheSte. key200 North May Avenue, 775mindset West Covell Road, Ste. 150materials 9300 to Kumon Programs Oklahomainstruction, City, OK 73120 Edmond, OK 73003 is the individualized carefully planned by an instructor. Regardless of academic your child will progress through the OKLAHOMA CITY - NORTHWEST • 405-721-READ EDMOND - WEST level, • 405-216-9800 individualized instruction at his or her own pace – 6220 NW Expressway 245 S. Santa Fe Avenue advancing by logical step. Kumon’s Oklahomadisciplined, City, OK 73132 Edmond, OKstep 73003 worksheet approach to learning advances your child’s abilities•to the classroom andOKLAHOMA throughout fact, CITY -life.

SOUTHIn• 405-691-8900 NORMAN 405-364-1600 many Kumon students above grade level.

10600 S. Pennsylvania, #5 1320 North Interstate Drive are studying City,around OK 73170 Norman, 73072 students in 50Oklahoma With overOK 4,000,000 countries the world, Kumon helps today’s children become YUKON - SOUTH • 405-265-0075 confident, self-learners in math and reading. From 501 S. Mustang Ste. L thrive in the review to enrichment, KumonRoad, students Yukon, OK 73099 classroom and beyond!

kumon.com

Where Smart Kids Get Smarter. ©2019 Kumon North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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learning tree toys, books & games 405-848-1415 7638 N Western Ave, Oklahoma City www.learningtreeokc.com Known as OKC’s biggest and best locally-owned toy store, learning tree in Nichols Hills specializes in helping customers find toys, games and activities that best match the developmental milestones of ages birth to 14. Perfect for giftgiving occasions such as birthdays and the holidays and the everyday needs of kids to be challenged and to stretch their creativity.

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma’s Thelma Gaylord Academy 405-524-9310 x101 1801 NW 16th St www.thelmagaylordacademy.org Lyric’s Thelma Gaylord Academy is the premiere musical theatre academy in the state of Oklahoma. Having served thousands of students since our founding in 2001, we have former students succeeding in all walks of life – from lawyers to doctors to educators, moms, dads, and yes – actors. Many of our alumni have gone on to careers in Hollywood, on television, and Broadway. However, our proudest accomplishment is knowing that each and every student who goes through our program exits with a strong sense of self, their place in the community, and their responsibility to make a world that is accepting of everyone’s differences.

To meet that end, we have put together a curriculum that focuses on preparing students for the challenges of musical theatre production. Starting as early as Pre-K, our classes all work towards the goal of creating theatre with a team mindset, emphasizing not only individual growth, but also an understanding of the importance of ensemble collaboration and technical theatre production elements. Also, we include regular workshops with the stars of national touring shows that come through Oklahoma City. Students looking for more personalized training can seek out our Private Voice, Acting,

and On-Camera Acting options with our experienced staff of private instructors. We offer year round instruction for the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters.

In hiring experienced theatre performers who also value strong education, we make sure to always approach theatre from the education mindset. In an effort to make our Academy accessible to everyone, we also have a robust scholarship program that can allow anyone with a passion for theatre to join us at a lower cost to families. Our staff is always delighted to talk to anyone about what we do here, so please call or email anytime!

hopeful Mercy Health Center precious

www.mercy.net/metrofamily

Locatedconfident in northwest Oklahoma City, 380-bed Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City is a leader in the treatment of cancerlife andis stroke, breast imaging Your blessed our life’s work. and research and robotic surgery. We’re also home to a Level-III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), excitedlifesaving care for critically ill which provides newborns.

joyful was also the first health facility in Mercy Hospital Oklahoma (and one of the first 15 in the nation) to earn The Joint Commission’s prestigious Advanced complete Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers.

Our ability to treat even the most complex stroke cases is helping save more lives.

With technologies like our integrated electronic health record and MyMercy, our free online service that allows you to manage your health information from your computer or smartphone, Mercy is making health care easier than ever before.

Child Care Inc www.childcareinc.com • Infants through 12 years • After-school and summer programs for We’d like to thank the readers of MetroFamily school age kids • 3-star nationally accredited program magazine for choosing Mercy Hospital, its • Open 24 hours and Saturdays • Accepts military,center, tribal, DHS andMercy OB/GYN Michelle birthing and drop-in care

Brunnabend, DO, as 2019 “Family Favorites.”

Locations include: Acorn Children’s Center And if you have baby preparations underway, 3601 NW 51st, OKC 405-946-3223 we invite you to download our helpful Kindercastle “BabyChildren’s on theCenter Way” Guide at 309 Bizzell, MWC 405-737-8790

mercy.net/MetroFamily

Linwood Early Learning Center 3034 NW 17th, OKC 405-947-7722

Your life is our life’s work.

Children’s Lighthouse (3 OKC locations): 540 N Council Rd, 405-789-0661 5816 NW 36th St, 405-947-4002 6624 NW 63rd St, 405-721-1830

Your life is our life’s work.

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Community Dance Center 405-208-5508 2501 N. Blackwelder, OKC, OK 73106 www.okcu.edu/community-dance-center The Community Dance Center at Oklahoma City University offers a variety of dance classes to students of all ages. We believe that in addition to learning dance steps and being physically active, students will gain important values such as teamwork, discipline, self-confidence, and pride. Our program is inclusive and welcoming to students of all levels and abilities. Our teachers are trained through the American Dance Teacher program in the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment and offer students quality instruction and personal attention. We are proud to offer a scholarship program in order to make dance classes affordable for every family. At the end of each year, students perform for family and friends in our annual showcase. We are excited to offer this performance opportunity at no additional cost to our customers! There is no fee for students to participate, free admission for friends and family, and no costume charges! Our fall session will begin on September 3rd, 2019. Please contact our office at 405-208-5508 for enrollment information.

OKC Zoo 2000 Remington Place, OKC, OK 73111 (located at cross roads of I-35 and I-44.)

For information about our animals and unique guest services, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org The OKC Zoo, Oklahoma’s largest and most popular cultural attraction, invites you to discover the wonders of wildlifeand wild places. Enjoy world-class habitats including Great EscApe, Cat Forest/Lion Overlook, Oklahoma Trails and Sanctuary Asia where you will find the amazing animals of the Asian continent.

The Zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. General Zoo admission is $11 for adults age 12-64, and $8 for children age 3-11 and seniors 65 and older. Children 2 and under are free.

Oklahoma City Ballet School www.okcballet.org Do you have a budding baby ballerina, aspiring male dancer, or you yourself would like to fulfill your dream of learning to dance? The Oklahoma City Ballet Yvonne Chouteau School is Oklahoma’s only American Ballet Theatre® Certified School. The school offers classes for students ranging from age three to adult in a disciplined yet nurturing environment. Our classes are conducted in a safe, supportive atmosphere that fosters proper technique

Family Favorites

and the development of life-skills such as confidence and determination. Sharing our facility with a professional company enriches each student’s experience by allowing them to observe dancers in classes, rehearsals, and performances, in addition to offering opportunities to perform with the company.

Adult Community Division classes are also offered for anyone looking for a fun atmosphere to be active and engage with others! Explore ballet, yoga, Zumba, or ballroom in a positive and encouraging environment.

Come dance with us!

The City of Edmond Parks offers year-round classes in arts, crafts and many other subjects taught via community partners such as Tippi Toes and Mad Science. Some are one-time classes and others are longer series of classes. During summer and other school breaks, they also provide week-long camps and other classes to keep kids busy and learning. Check their seasonal activity guides online for full listings then register online or by calling them.

Also enjoy the many parks and splash pads that are offered by Edmond Parks, including Hafer Park and Mitch Park that were voted as Family Favorite “best of parks” and Barnett Splash Pad that was voted as one of the best splash pads.

City of Edmond Parks 405-359-4630 2733 Marilyn Williams Dr (Mitch Park), Edmond www.edmondparks.com

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Sell. Buy. Repeat.

Once Upon a Child North OKC 405-286-3114 13801 N. Penn Ave., Oklahoma City, OK onceuponachildokcnorth.com Once Upon a Child is the largest national franchise specializing in reselling gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear. Customers can get quality items for up to 70% off of original retail prices. They offer cash on-the-spot for items meeting current style, safety and condition standards. They maintain high merchandise standards by thoroughly inspecting all toys and equipment for any safety recalls.

Each location is individually owned and operated by moms and dads just like you, who understand that money doesn’t grow on trees.

SELL THE TOYS, CLOTHES AND EQUIPMENT YOUR KIDS HAVE OUTGROWN FOR CASH TODAY. SAVE ON THE BRANDS YOU TRUST WITH OUR EVERYDAY LOW PRICES!

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

www.riversedgecottages.com One of the first things you’ll notice on arriving here is what you can’t hear: the sound of traffic. Then you’ll start to hear the birds. The leaves whispering to each other high up in the trees. The gentle sound of the Mountain Fork River cascading from rapid to rapid, shoal to shoal.

That’s when you’ll know you’re at the River’s Edge.

You’ll start to hear yourself, too—and your loved ones.

This is a place to connect and reconnect. To get in a canoe or kayak and paddle around, show your kids how to cast a line and reel in a small-mouth bass. To take a hike through deep, quiet woods filled with virgin beech, white oak and loblolly pines. To sit on the porch and listen to the river, the wind in the leaves. To romance the one you love, for the first time or the hundredth.

River’s Edge Cottages is a place for families. It’s a place for honeymooners—and for couples who’ve been around the bend a few times already, who just want a chance to look at each other again.

Located on 250 private, hiking trail-covered acres, perched right on a gorgeous river deep in the mountainous country of southeastern Oklahoma, River’s Edge Cottages features both family-oriented cabins and cottages perfect for romance, featuring hot tubs, double jacuzzis, and fireplaces—we provide the wood, you provide the flame!

The scenery is stunning. The cabins are luxurious. All that’s missing is you.

Sensational Kids 405-840-1686 14715 Bristol Park Blvd, Edmond 5701 SE 74th St, OKC 1445 Health Center Parkway, Yukon www.sensationalkidsokc.com Sensational Kids, Inc. is a sensory rich environment designed to enhance the performance of each child through play based activities and individualized care. Our facilities provide a combination of sensorimotor gyms and one-onone treatment rooms. The gyms are designed to replicate natural environments such as playing with other children on a playground or participating in a gymnastics class. Although the children have lots of fun, activities are specially designed to address motor skills, social interactions and improve regulation.

Children’s sessions then continue with one-on-one table time activities addressing areas of challenge identified in each child’s individualized treatment goals, such as fine motor skills, self-care skills, speech and language skills, swallowing, food aversions, school readiness tasks, etc. Let us help your child develop to his or her fullest potential!

Now serving you with three metro area locations.

We love being the go-to source for all things #OKCFamilyFun! www.metrofamilymagazine.com

I remember visiting a restaurant when we first moved to OKC and on a little magazine stand by the entrance was a copy of MetroFamily Magazine. I picked it up to see what it was and was blown away! First of all, I couldn’t believe it was free, as it was so full of such great information for parents here in OKC! It became an immediate favorite resource for my family!

I would never have been able to find all of those resources on my own, even if I had years to search! For the last 3 years, MetroFamily Magazine, both in print and online, has been my family’s go to for all things OKC for families.

From the community events on the calendar to the service advertisements at the back, it keeps us engaged in our wonderful community. You will always find me picking up a copy any time a new one is released. I’m so thankful that I found MetroFamily Magazine! ~ Jenny Scott

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Variety Care Health Centers 405-632-6688 13 locations in OKC Metro, Mid-Del and Norman www.varietycare.org Variety Care Health Centers are dedicated to providing you and your family with quality, affordable medical care at 13 locations in the OKC metro, Norman, Mid-Del and Southwest Oklahoma. 4 on-site pharmacies with discounts available for Variety Care patients. Variety Care accepts SoonerCare, Medicare, and many private insurance plans.

Variety Care offers a full line of medical services, including primary medical care for adults and children, dental care for all ages, women’s health and prenatal care, vision, pharmacy, behavioral health, and more.

The same high-quality care is available to every patient, whether they have insurance or not. Patients have the convenience of flexible payment options and may qualify for reduced fees as part of the Sliding Fee Scale program.

Variety Care is here for you and your loved ones - not only when you’re sick, but also for those important life moments and milestones in you and your child’s life.

Wymer Brownlee Wealth Strategies 405-748-4000 13900 N. Portland, Suite 210 Oklahoma City, OK 73134 At Wymer Brownlee Wealth Strategies, we believe every family, every business, every individual deserves great advice. Truly great advice is born from an understanding of clients’ values, goals and all available resources. When we see the big picture of your financial life, we can deliver more strategic guidance.

That’s why we offer holistic financial services that integrate tax planning and preparation, accounting, business consulting and wealth management.

Financial management is about more than money. It’s about maximizing your potential. Building a legacy for your family. Living life to the fullest. At Wymer Brownlee, we’re driven by a singular purpose to help

clients prioritize what matters most. We create plans to protect and grow financial resources, so you can live the lifestyle you want today while impacting your community and leaving the legacy you envision tomorrow.

Find one of our six Oklahoma locations or get to know our team at WymerBrownlee.com.

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City 15 locations across central Oklahoma ymcaokc.org At the YMCA, we are for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.

partnerships to address needs during the Teacher Walkout, to providing volunteer opportunities through memberled Togetherhood® projects, to supporting Ys beyond our borders and advocating for our communities, we are creating positive social change.

Beyond the classroom, the Y is here to help provide opportunities for youth to learn new skills, understand community, discover healthy options, develop new friendships, think critically, gain leadership skills and experience interacting with positive adult role models.

More than just working out, healthy living at the Y means a gathering place for those with like interests, a place for families to build stronger bonds and achieve balance, a buildin support system and a place to help prevent, delay or live better with chronic conditions.

Beyond our walls, we are working side-by-side with our neighbors to create change. From building

Therapy and Beyond There is hope for every child, and Therapy and Beyond is dedicated to providing the highest quality, 1:1 individualized ABA and Speech therapy for individuals with autism and other developmental differences. Our Oklahoma City center provides a comfortable, naturalistic environment where children can have fun while working with our dedicated team of BCBAs, Speech Therapists, and RBTs to realize and reach their full potential. Therapy and Beyond’s programs encourage family involvement to maximize treatment effectiveness, gain functional communication skills, and increase independence for each individual. Every program is tailored to each child, and aims to build on strengths while improving problem areas.

A big part of Therapy and Beyond is giving back to the autism community through free events for parents and families alike. On November 4th, Therapy and Beyond with host OKC’s second annual Moms Mingle for mothers of children with autism. 100 mothers will enjoy free entertainment, drinks, food, prizes and a night to connect with other moms on the same journey! You can get more information here - www.therapyandbeyond. com/oklahoma-citys-moms-mingle-for-moms-ofchildren-with-autism/

WE MAKE THERAPY FUN!

Does Your Child Have Autism?

LET US HELP!

In home and center based services combining ABA and speech for individuals with autism.

Insurance accepted.

844-422-2669

THERAPYANDBEYOND.COM

Weekend Wonders The discovery of a wide-open weekend on the family calendar can be as magical as unearthing buried treasure. Carving out family time can be a challenge, but there’s no better way to spend it than seeking adventure or respite on a road trip together. Reconnect amidst the wonder of these nearby destinations, packed with family fun throughout the year.

BY ERIN PAGE

Adventure awaits across state park trio Take a long weekend to compare and contrast the varied beauty and activities in three northwestern Oklahoma state parks: the Great Salt Plains, Little Sahara and Alabaster Caverns. Travel 90 minutes northwest to Enid where legs and minds can be stretched at the Leonardo Children’s Museum or Railroad Museum of Oklahoma.

Another hour northwest leads to Great Salt Plains State Park and Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, the only place in the world where hour-glass shaped selenite crystals can be discovered. The white-salt covered plains, leftover from a prehistoric ocean, stretch as far as the eye can see. Crystal digging is open to the public from April to October, and visitors must bring their own supplies, with sunscreen, shovels, buckets and plenty of water topping the priority list. After a dig, take a swim in the saltwater lake, cast a line or watch for more than 300 species of protected birds that call the plains home.

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LEFT: ALABASTER CAVERNS BY LORI DUCKWORTH; MIDDLE: LITTLE SAHARA BY LISHA NEWMAN; RIGHT: GREAT SALT PLAINS BY LORI DUCKWORTH. ALL PROVIDED BY OKLAHOMA TOURISM.

Rent an onsite cabin or campsite and venture an hour west the next morning to Little Sahara State Park.

Named for its expanse of sand dunes, Little Sahara is prime for dune buggy or ATV adventures, which can be brought in or rented in nearby Waynoka through Stewarts ATV & Buggy. Even if you aren’t riding, stop to watch the daredevils from the observation deck or hike through the sand. Visit the weekend after Easter to experience the annual Rattlesnake Hunt, complete with family-friendly entertainment and an awards ceremony honoring the captors of the largest rattlers.

RV and tent sites are available at Little Sahara, or continue northwest 45 minutes to Alabaster Caverns State Park. The largest natural gypsum cave in the world is open year round for hourly tours, where visitors may encounter five species of bats. The especially adventurous can obtain a permit for wild caving, or spelunking, or even cave camping, April through September. Hike the nearby trails, enjoy a picnic lunch or play horseshoes or volleyball to round out a weekend of wonder.

Spend Summer At The Sooner!

One, Two and Threeweek performing arts camps for kids entering Pre-K - 6th grade

Acting, Singing, Dancing, and a little MAGIC! BROKEN BOW LAKE BY KIM BAKER/OKLAHOMA TOURISM

June 3 - Aug 4

Breathtaking beauty near Broken Bow Outdoor fun abounds at Beavers Bend State Park, located about four hours from the metro, near Broken Bow in the southeast corner of the state. Experience the crystal clear waters of Broken Bow Lake through swimming or kayaking, or on land hike, bike or wander a nature trail in the park’s rugged terrain. Mountain Fork River has been dubbed one of the best trout fishing locations in the region and is stocked year round. Winter is prime season both for trout fishing and experiencing the bald eagle migration, with watches held on Saturdays from November through February.

The Beavers Bend Depot and Stables offer two modes of transportation to take in the

wildlife and park views. First board the 1863-built 1/3 size replica train, which winds through the park twice an hour, then saddle up for an hour-long trail ride horseback.

Thrill-seekers will find zip lining, repelling and scuba diving, and golf enthusiasts can take their pick from putt-putt or an 18-hole course.

The park’s Lakeview Lodge offers water views from each of its 40 rooms, or cabins, tent and RV sites are available for rent. On the way home, stop by Pete’s Place in Krebs, outside McAlester, for authentic Italian cooking since 1925, then grab handcrafted cheese, sausage, olive oils and antipasti from Lovera’s market to enjoy at home.

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Culture and cuisine collide in Pawhuska Families who love to cook (or eat) together will find culinary and cultural delights in and around Pawhuska. A little over two hours northeast, Pawhuska is the stomping groups of Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond. The Pioneer Woman Mercantile (the Merc for short) is a restaurant, bakery and store all in one. Charlie’s Sweet Shop, named after Drummond’s beloved basset hound, serves up sundaes and candy while P-Town Pizza across the street specializes in pizza, wings and desserts (there’s a theme here). Test your bravery on the swinging suspension bridge in town, built in 1926.

A visit to the Merc also secures a tour ticket to The Lodge outside of town, where Drummond films her Food Network show. Guests can peek in Drummond’s pantry, pose for photos whipping up pretend dishes and even pet the family dogs featured in Drummond’s children’s books.

Cowboys and cowgirls will want to mosey in to the brand new Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum, dedicated to the world champion team roper and Academy Award-winning actor. The museum honors the cowboy and western heritage of the Osage and features saddles, boots and collections from notable cowboys and cowgirls.

History buffs will appreciate the Osage Nation Museum, the oldest tribally-owned museum in the United States, which also showcases contemporary Osage artists. Soak up the great outdoors anytime of year by driving through the nearby Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, the largest protected remnant of tall grass prairie on earth. A driving loop offers expansive views of the preserve’s majestic bison herd. Visiting in May assures gorgeous wildflower vistas and typically the best bison TALLGRASS PRAIRIE PRESERVE BY LORI DUCKWORTH/OKLAHOMA TOURISM

Your child could be an entrepreneur for a day!

Acton

CHILDREN'S BUSINESS FAIR

Register for the Acton Children's Business Fair hosted

by MetroFamily and Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE & GIRL SCOUTS WESTERN OKLAHOMA

There is no fee to enter but submit your application by the deadline of July 19.

Your child will: Learn life skills Earn money Be eligible to win prizes Have fun!

Of the kids ages 6-14 who register, 40 will be selected to sell their products and services on Sept. 8 from 1-4:30 p.m. at Oklahoma Hall of Fame/Gaylord-Pickens Museum in Midtown.

Learn more and sign up at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cbf.

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FACT:

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

OSAGE HILLS STATE PARK BY REBEKAH MORROW/OKLAHOMA TOURISM

views. Summer months show off the bird population, while fall and winter visitors may catch glimpses of eagles and other wildlife.

Stay in Pawhuska at the Pioneer Woman’s luxury hotel The Boarding House, or rent a cabin or tent site at Osage Hills State Park, just 20 minutes from Pawhuska and hailed for its prime fishing. Just a bit farther east near Bartlesville, Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve encompass a stunning

display of Western art and artifacts, tours of oilman Frank Phillips’ rustic ranch home and a working ranch and preserve complete with bison, elk, longhorn cattle, deer, llamas, donkeys, ostriches and goats. Visit in June to attend Kidsfest, featuring arts and crafts, games, train rides and live music. If traveling with little ones, make a point to visit the animal barn and playground before heading home.

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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.

Oklahoma’s Family-Friendly Festivals Vibrant opportunities to delight in our one-of-a-kind Sooner State culture are just waiting to be explored in every corner of the state. Community festivals are

SUMMER Photo Feature Rush Springs Watermelon Festival, Aug. 8-10 Rush Springs celebrates all things watermelon each year during the iconic annual summer festival. The town’s popular crop takes center stage as festival-goers test their seed spitting skills, browse exhibits showcasing the biggest and best of the year’s harvest and taste test several local varieties.

Festival organizers slice up nearly 50,000 pounds of watermelon to feed the more than 20,000 expected attendees! Keep up-todate on the latest at www.facebook.com/ rushspringswatermelonfestival.

Edmond’s LibertyFest, June 30 - July 6 Edmond’s LibertyFest is a week-long, citywide celebration of patriotic pizzazz.

Family favorites include the free concert in the park at UCO, KiteFest, Wagner’s Carnival

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the perfect vehicle for families to experience new foods, local charm and out-of-the-ordinary activities. From small-town shindigs to established annual

and ParkFest at Mitch Park. The festival’s grand finale lights up the night sky over Hafer Park with a fireworks show synchronized to music on KZUC 99.3 FM. For a full schedule of events, visit www.libertyfest.org.

McLoud Blackberry Festival, July 12 & 13 Since the 1940s, the McLoud Blackberry Festival has served up mouth-watering blackberry everything, with a side of smalltown charm. Try your hand at the ‘cobbler gobbler’ contest or an old-fashioned sack race. Score fresh blackberries and other berry treats from a variety of local vendors. Delight your taste buds further by visiting festival food vendors, all of whom have a menu item featuring blackberries. Daytime activities include a carnival and car show, with live entertainment and fireworks marking the finale. Find out more at mcloudchamber. com/2019-blackberry-festival.html.

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celebrations, we’ve rounded up some of the best family-friendly festivals throughout the year.

BY LINDSAY CUOMO, PHOTOS PROVIDED

Hidden Gem Kiamichi Owa-Chito Festival of the Forest at Beavers Bend State Park, late June Bask in the shaded beauty of the pines at the annual Festival of the Forest. Held in picturesque Beavers Bend State Park, the festival celebrates the region’s forestry industry. Marvel at experienced lumberjacks competing for bragging rights in a variety of skilled contests. Kids can get in on the action in the junior and senior kid competitions. Enjoy music, wood-turning demonstrations, canoe races, kids’ games and an art show. Plan your festival adventures at www.owachitofestival.com.

Other Summer Festivals: • Bartlesville’s Sunfest • deadCENTER Film Festival • Red Earth Festival Find a full line-up of summer festivals at metrofamilymagazine.com/summer-festivals.

FALL Photo Feature Pumpkinville, October Pumpkinville pays tribute to the orange gourd and all things fall. The Myriad Botanical Gardens Children’s Garden is transformed into a magical pumpkin town, thanks to thousands of pumpkins, dozens of scarecrows, hosts of hay bales and creative harvest-themed displays. Sip fresh pressed cider, play games and paint pumpkins in the fall fun wonderland. Learn more at www.oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com/ pumpkinville.

Septemberfest, Sept. 7 Septemberfest at the Oklahoma History Center commemorates all that makes our state great. A host of Oklahoma-based organizations band together to present a day of fun. Attendees explore Oklahoma industries, take part in engaging activities,

sample a variety of treats and travel back in time through living history performers. The Oklahoma History Center is open and free to the public throughout the event, and tours of the Governor’s Mansion are available.

Plan your visit at www.okhistory.org/ historycenter/septemberfest.

Robbers Cave Fall Festival, Oct. 18-20 The Robbers Cave Fall Festival combines classic fall fun and classic cars. The threeday festival offers a crafters market, carnival for kids, tasty local foods, live music and, on Saturday, the Fall Foliage Cruise, with hundreds of pre-1986 cars. Get the full scoop at www.robberscavefallfestival.com.

Hidden Gem Wings Over Weatherford, Sept. 28 Coined WOW, Wings Over Weatherford showcases aviation with high-flying festivities. The action both in the sky and on the ground includes historic aircraft flights and static displays, rides on the “bomb train” and inflatables. Admission is just $5 for adults; kids 12 and under are free. Museum admission is included. Find out more at www.staffordmuseum.org.

Other Fall Festivals: • Mustang’s Western Days Festival, Sept.

6&7 • Oklahoma State Fair, Sept. 12-22 • Oklahoma Czech Festival at Yukon Czech Hall, Oct. 5 Find a full line-up of fall festivals at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/fall-festivals.

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WINTER Photo Feature Opening Night, Dec. 31 Oklahoma City welcomes the new year in style at the Arts Council’s annual event.

Top bands and live performers entertain the crowds as they count down the final hours of the year. The new year is greeted by the rising of the New Year ball and a sparkling fireworks show. The family-friendly event offers kids’ activities in the Meinder’s Hall of Mirrors, and food trucks are onsite to tempt taste buds. Find a complete schedule of events at www.artscouncilokc.com/openingnight.

Dickens on the Boulevard, Nov. 15 & 16 Hosted annually the weekend before Thanksgiving, the Victorian-themed festival ushers in the holidays with a city-wide celebration in Claremore. The historic downtown transports guests back in time to the days of Dickens. Families stroll the streets, ride a wagon through town, pose for pictures with Santa and learn about the Victorian era. In an artisan village, re-enactors portray blacksmiths, wood

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carvers and potters while they strike up conversation and sell their creations. A living nativity, costume contest and saloon serving sarsaparilla and water round out the festivities. Plan your visit at www. downtownclaremore.org/dickens-on-theboulevard.

A Territorial Christmas Celebration, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 & 14 Guthrie celebrates Christmas with a touch of nostalgia. Opening with a lighted parade, festival-goers revel in the holiday spirit, thanks to illuminated floats, carriages and Santa. The Victorian Walks feature carriage rides, carolers dressed in period clothing, decorated storefronts and seasonal snacks.

Historic Pollard Theatre puts on a special holiday production. Find all the details at www.guthriesterritorialchristmas.com.

Hidden Gem Woolaroc Wonderland of Lights, Nov. 29 - Dec. 22 Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Thanksgiving to Christmas, the grounds of

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the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve are illuminated by more than 750,000 holiday lights. Visitors can take in the lights from aboard a wagon or stroll about to get an up-close view. Afterward, enjoy live entertainment, refreshments and a visit with Santa Claus. Admission is $6 for adults and $1 for children, but those visiting the museum can stay for same-day evening festivities for free. Learn more at www.woolaroc.org.

Other Winter Festivals: • Yukon’s Christmas in the Park, Nov. 23-Dec. 31 • Chickasha’s Festival of Light, Nov. 23Dec. 31 • Devon’s Saturdays with Santa, Dec. 7 & 14 • Christmas Guns Celebration at Historic Fort Reno, Dec. 8 Find a full line-up of winter festivals at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/winter-festivals.

SPRING Photo Feature Festival of the Arts, April The Festival of the Arts is an Oklahoma City springtime tradition, blending visual, performing and culinary arts into a multiday celebration. Each year, thousands of visitors converge on Bicentennial Park to peruse works of artists from across the country, savor indulgent delights served at International Food Row and kick back to enjoy live music and theatrical productions.

The Children’s Art Field and Young-atArt market are highlights for the youngest attendees, in addition to street performers, face painting and a sculpture park. Find out more about festival activities at www. artscouncilokc.com/festival-of-the-arts.

Yukon’s Festival of the Child, early May Yukon’s Festival of the Child celebrates the magic of childhood by taking a regular day at the park to new heights. From storytelling, kid-friendly live performances and art activities to kayaking, knockerball and an obstacle course, families will find a plethora of play-time fun. Families with little ones, don’t miss the area specifically designed for toddlers. Tickets range from $5 to $7, and adults are free. To learn more, visit www. yukonok.gov.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s Chuck Wagon Festival, May 23 & 24 Traditionally held Memorial Day weekend, the annual Chuck Wagon Festival is a two-

day showcase of the American West. Trick ropers, artisans and Western re-enactors bring the by-gone era to life, while attendees dine on chuck wagon food, make butter, spin rope and dress up. Admission is free for museum members and kids 12 and under; $15 for all others. Find all the details at www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Hidden Gem Downtown El Reno’s Fried Onion Burger Day, May 1 & 2 Paying tribute to the town’s famed hamburgers, the Fried Onion Burger Day Festival revolves around the creation of the world’s largest fried onion hamburger.

Festival-goers cheer on organizers as they cook a massive burger, weighing in at over 750 pounds, in a 12-foot convection oven and on a 10-foot grill! Volunteers slice up the hefty creation, passing out individual portions to hungry visitors. The fun continues with a burger-eating contest, carnival rides, car show, live entertainment and an evening concert. Find a complete schedule of events at www.elrenoburgerday. com.

Other Spring Festivals: • 89er Days Celebration in Downtown Guthrie • Red Fern Festival in Downtown Tahlequah, April 27 & 28 • Italian Festival at the McAlester Expo Center Find a full line-up of spring festivals at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/springfestivals.

Editor’s note: Festival dates were current at the time of publication.

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Grandparent Guide to OKC Family Fun

BY DEB STANALAND, PHOTOS BY JESSICA MISUN

The unique relationships we have with our grandchildren give us the opportunity to influence and shape their lives. Spending time with them together or individually can help them learn lessons to last a lifetime, develop new skills and appreciate family traditions, history and values.

My five grandchildren range in age from 21 months to 19 years. Through the years I have loved the opportunities to spend quality time with each of them, both one-on-one or in groups. Our adventures have ranged from activities requiring no monetary commitment to more costly endeavors. Based on our own family fun, enjoy these recommendations for discovering meaningful metro fun with grandchildren of all ages.

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, 2101 NE 50th St, provides workshops and summer and school break camps for kids of all ages. Annual zoo passes can be purchased year round (look for discounted prices during promotional events at www.okczoo.org). A yearlong pass allows for unlimited short or all-day explorations to experience exotic critters from around the world, fresh air, food and the gift shop.

Our many trips to the zoo through the years have included valuable lessons, including one for me occurring while observing the reptile feeding, which is open to the public every few months. The feeding frenzy that ensued when dead rodents were introduced into the snake pit proved to be a bit much for my then 4- and 5-year-old grandsons. Yikes! Lesson learned!

At the Myriad Botanical Gardens’ Crystal Bridge Conservatory, 301 W Reno, tour fees are minimal and well worth the price to enjoy the variety of vegetation, waterfall and sky bridge. Grandparents will appreciate that seniors and veterans receive a small discount. The Gardens also features free SONIC Summer Movies, full of activities and fun. Bring a picnic or purchase food from an impressive line-up of food trucks. See times and details at www. oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com.

Hit a water park near you! Pelican Bay Aquatics Center in Edmond, 1034 S Bryant Ave, offers family fun, swim lessons and a variety of special events. Learn more at www. pelicanbayaquatics.com. White Water Bay, 3908 W Reno Ave, can be experienced through individual tickets or season passes. Slides, food and dive-in movies included in this aquatic adventure. Visit www.sixflags.com/whitewaterbay for details.

Artistic endeavors entertain the young and old alike at Unpluggits Paint & Play, 575 Enterprise Dr, Suite 110, in Edmond. A unique approach to family entertainment, the TOP: DEB STANALAND AND GRANDDAUGHTER ROGUE (ALMOST 2) AT MITCH PARK, EDMOND; BOTTOM: DEB WITH HER GRANDCHILDREN MAVERICK (5), ROGUE (ALMOST 2), BRYSON (7), CJ (19) AT MITCH PARK, EDMOND.

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ceramic and craft painting studio also houses an indoor playground and offers snacks and drinks for purchase. Unpluggits proved a great venue for our grandson’s fifth birthday party and a fun place for me, Nana, to spend an afternoon with the younger kiddos. Learn more at www.unpluggits.com.

Okie Kids Playground, 321 W 15th St in Edmond, provides a playful learning atmosphere for children under age 6.

Custom-designed play houses, multiple play areas and a large craft room invite exploration and discovery. Snacks, pastries and coffee are available for purchase. Visit www.okiekids.com for pricing and special activities scheduled throughout the year.

No matter their age, those G-kids love to eat out, and one of our favorites is Pop’s, 660 W Hwy 66 in Arcadia. Choosing from a menu of hamburgers, hotdogs, onion rings, malts and sundaes is tough enough, but throw in unlimited soda pop flavors and the excitement escalates. The challenge is getting them to pick a pop flavor before their food arrives. Be prepared for requests to choose another pop to take home!

TOP: DEB WITH HER GRANDCHILDREN ROGUE (ALMOST 2), MAVERICK (5), BRYSON (7) AT HOME MAKING DESSERT; BOTTOM: DEB WITH HER GRANDCHILDREN ROGUE (ALMOST 2), ANDREW (12), BRYSON (7), MAVERICK (5) AT POP’S 66 SODA RANCH IN ARCADIA.

Memories of summer adventure last a lifetime. Escape the ordinary to find a myriad of cultural activities waiting to enrich your summer getaway. Now is the time to tour sun-ripened gardens, share in stickball in our Traditional Village and enjoy dining outdoors. Join us as the season brings a renewed vigor for exploration.

Splash pads encourage family fun among all ages. Enjoy Edmond’s splash pad on Kelly Avenue just north of Edmond Road or the Myriad Botanical Gardens’ Thunder Fountain at 301 W Reno.

Break out the video games. Go to your local video store and rent games you can play together. Encourage your grandchildren to teach you how to play their favorite video games. Mine had to teach me how to hook up the machine to even get started! Sound familiar?

Visit the library. Pick up a few books they can read to you and some you can read to them. Take the younger ones to your neighborhood library’s story time. Meet the librarians and learn about available resources and programs. Visit www. metrolibrary.org for schedules of classes and events for children and adults.

Explore a nearby park. Play on the swings, slides and jungle gym. A treasure hunt can turn an ordinary day into a great

TIMELESS SUMMER TOOMPALLI '–CHICKASAW FOR SUMMER

Free or minimal cost

Bake and eat cookies. Take the grandkids shopping at your favorite grocery store to purchase ingredients and let them select their favorite add-ins, like cherry chips, chocolate or sprinkles. Or step up your baking game by making donuts together.

Let them enjoy rolling the tasty goodies in powdered sugar or cinnamon and sugar and, of course, sprinkles.

Sticks for the honored game of STICKBALL are made from hickory, pecan or ash wood and woven with deerskin.

adventure. Make a list of items to collect on your walk through the park. Include items like a gray pebble, an orange leaf, a snake-shaped twig and a feather. Visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/metro-parks for park locations.

Martin Park Nature Center, 5000 W Memorial Rd, offers nature exploration, guided hikes and education for all ages.

Stop by the Visitor Center for live animals, a nature learning library and restrooms.

Search for Martin Park Nature Center at www.okc.gov.

Deb Stanaland was named the 2015 Oklahoma Mother of the Year and then selected as the 2015 National Mother of the Year. She serves on the Oklahoma Crime Victims Compensation Board and the National Board of Directors for American Mothers, Inc. Deb’s favorite pastime is making memories with her grandchildren.

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Wander through the SPIRAL GARDEN where our fresh produce grows.

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