Metro Family Magazine November 2016

OUR

Giv i Bac ng k Iss ue

NOVEMBER 2016

OKLAHOMA HOLIDAY TRADITIONS 6 worth the drive SPIRIT OF GIVING Discover dozens of non-profits that could use your family's help

Furry Family Tips for adopting your next family pet

See our calendar for 194 November events!

NOVE THRU

MBER

JANU

9

ARY 2

HOLIDAY EVENTS IN DOWNTOWN OKC DEVON ICE RINK DEVON'S SATURDAYS WITH SANTA SANDRIDGE SANTA RUN BRICKTOWN TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL A DOG DAY IN DECEMBER FREE HOLIDAY WATER TAXI RIDES SONIC SEGWAY SANTA AUTOMOBILE ALLEY LIGHT DISPLAY BRICKTOWN CANAL LIGHTS FILM ROW LIGHT DISPLAY LEGENDS NIGHT IN DEEP DEUCE LIGHTS ON BROADWAY ANNUAL EVENT DELUXE WINTER MARKET HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOPS AT MIDTOWN WINTER SHOPPES AT MYRIAD GARDENS MISTLETOE MARKET HOLIDAY SIP 'N' SHOP

SNOW TUBING WINTER FESTIVAL SANTA’S ADVENTURES ON THE OKLAHOMA RIVER LITTLE WILLIE'S TRIPLE DOG DARE MYRIAD GARDENS HOLIDAY EVENTS SKIRVIN HOLIDAY EVENTS OKCMOA HOLIDAY EVENTS CHRISTMAS CRAWL AT DEEP DEUCE DUNLAP CODDING PRESENTS GLITTER BALL DOWNTOWN HISTORIC CHURCH TOUR & HOLIDAY CONCERT CANTERBURY CHRISTMAS AT THE CIVIC CENTER RED EARTH HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE & TREEFEST OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET'S THE NUTCRACKER OKC PHILHARMONIC'S CHRISTMAS SHOW LYRIC'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL REDUXION THEATRE HOLIDAY SHOWS HARKINS TUESDAY NIGHT HOLIDAY MOVIES OKC ARTS COUNCIL'S OPENING NIGHT

FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENT DETAILS, VISIT DOWNTOWNINDECEMBER.COM

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EDMOND/S. BROADWAY

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3248 S Broadway N.E. Corner of 33rd & Broadway 405-509-2979

101 N Douglas Blvd Douglas & Reno - next to Crest 405-455-3000

6401 NW Expressway 405-603-4646

9501 N May Ave Mill Creek Flooring - El Chico 405-286-3232

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815 SW 119th East of Western 405-378-0116

618 W Vandament Ave next to Family Video 405-265-4141

Next to Family Video

2000 W Danforth Rd Santa Fe & Danforth, East of Walmart 405-844-3100

425 SR152 Hwy in Pebble Creek Plaza 405-376-2380

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go

guide...

The ultimate OKC family fun

Volume 19, Number11

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2016

22

EDITORIAL

Sarah Taylor–Publisher Hannah Schmitt–Managing Editor Lindsay Cuomo–Assistant Editor Heather Davis, Erin Page, Lindsay Cuomo–Contributing Writers Emily Hart, Elyse Fair & Mark Doescher– Contributing Photographers Brittany Viklund–Contributing Illustrator

Important tips for adopting a pet

HAVE A STORY OR BIG EVENT? We are all about family activities and fun in the OKC metro. If you have a story to share, let us know!

CONTACT THE TEAM AT 405-601-2081 or email sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com.

DESIGN & SALES Stacy Noakes–Art Director Callie Collins–Marketing Director Athena Delce, Dana Price & Jessica Misun–Sales Kathy Alberty–Office/Distribution Shelly Sanderson–Business Development Circulation - 35,000 Also available as a digital edition at www.metrofamilymagazine.com 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.

MetroFamily Magazine is a monthly magazine published by Inprint Publishing, Inc. Address: 318 NW 13th St Ste 101 OKC OK 73103 Phone: 405-601-2081 Fax: 405-445-7509 info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2016, All Rights Reserved.

54

NEARBY HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES Discover six Oklahoma traditions worth the drive

PLUS...

DON’T MISS ALL THIS

14

OKC EDUCATION What's next now that high-stakes testing is being limited?

28

MEET ASHLEY WHITESIDE The mom & daughter duo shaking up OKC's art scene.

8 Editor's Picks: Top Spots for Volunteering Year-Round 10 Eight Non-Profits that Need Your Family's Help, Especially During the Holidays

20 Mom Humor: That Which Doesn't Match 26 Parenthood Simplified: Tips for a Tech-Free Holiday Season

58 Expert Panel: Tips to Encourage Gratitude at Home

Welcome FROM OUR EDITOR

This month, we kick off the holiday season celebrations, share tips for pet adoption and guide you to volunteer opportunities for the whole family.

r u O r e t En ! s t s e t n o C

We field a lot of questions throughout the year from local parents but one of my favorites is when people ask for volunteer opportunities for their families to do together.

It just feels so good to know our readers really care about giving back.

Parents in Oklahoma City really understand that volunteering provides incredible lessons to their children and helps out much-needed services in the community.

We're proud to offer a list of volunteer opportunities online that we update yearround (find it at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/ volunteer). Every November, we supplement this online list with a special emphasis on giving back in our print magazine. Just in time for Thanksgiving and Christmas, this issue will help guide your family to Oklahoma City metro charities that need your help.

Are you thinking about adopting a pet this holiday season? We have some great resources to help you welcome a new animal into your life

NOMINATE BUSINESSES IN OUR FAMILY FAVORITES CONTEST AND YOU COULD WIN A HOLIDAY WEEKEND AT THE GAYLORD TEXAN RESORT.

on page 22. Even if you don't have room for a furry family member, the article features several ways your family can give back to local animal non-profits.

Also be sure to flip to our feature on page 10 that's all about OKC charities and causes that need your help this holiday season.

No matter how you decide to give back this season, I'm sure you will find that your children love the experience of volunteering and that your entire family will learn something new about your community.

Hannah Schmitt Editor

Family Favorites Contest MetroFamily is again looking for the “best of the best” as determined by you, our valued reader. Nominate businesses as often as once a day until Nov. 20, and for each time you nominate, you’ll be entered to win a fabulous holiday weekend at the Gaylord Texan, a $900 value. Find more at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/familyfavoritesokc.

OKC Philharmonic "The Christmas Show” Giveaway Find holiday cheer by attending the OKC Philharmonic's "The Christmas Show” that stars Tony award winner Kelli O'Hara, Santa and his tap-dancing kick line, Maestro Levine and the entire Philharmonic. Enter by Monday, Nov. 28 at noon and you’ll be eligible to win a four-pack of tickets to the matinee on Dec. 3.

Papa Murphy’s Pizza for a Year Giveaway You could win a pizza from Papa Murphy’s Pizza every week for a year! To enter, vote between 12 local non-profits that serve families and children and the four organizations with the most votes will receive a portion of the proceeds from certain giveback days at Papa Murphy’s. Deadline is Wednesday, Nov. 30 at noon.

Find out more and enter today at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

THIS MONTH’S COVER:

E T A R B E CEL R

E B M E V NWOITH HUNEDVREENDTSS ILY 6 n page 3 OF FAaM o s t r a t rs Calend

One of our 2016 Cover Kid winners, 11-year-old Layla poses with her dog, Olive. She loves playing competitive soccer, riding her hoverboard and cheering for the Oklahoma City Thunder. She’s run the Memorial Kids Marathon three times and wants to be a pediatrician.

!

W WO

PHOTO TAKEN BY EMILY HART WWW.NINAANDBPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

family buzz

We’re buzzing about

BY HANNAH SCHMITT

Avoiding Holiday Food Waste

T

hanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's celebrations are some of the biggest grocery shopping holidays of the year.

Unfortunately, they're also some of the biggest holidays for unnecessary food waste. While it's tempting to over-shop and under-plan during this stressful season, there are a few simple steps that can be taken to stretch your food budget and avoid waste.

Susan Allen is an Oklahoma City mom of two who's a spokesperson and program manager of industry affairs for Dairy MAX. Her role takes her throughout the state to collaborate with pediatricians and dietitians to help moms and kids make healthy choices.

She reported Americans waste 70 billion pounds of food every year. That means that for every three bags of groceries you buy a year, about one bag will never get eaten.

"You can not only save money if you think more and make better plans," she said, "but you can make better use of America's food resources and feel better about putting your food to good use."

Here are her top tips for avoiding food waste this holiday season.

Shop smarter Always start by making a list. With a list, you'll spend less, waste less and find you're in and out of the store much faster. Shopping smarter also means planning grocery store trips at a time when you (and especially young children who are shopping with you) aren't going to be hungry. It's easy to get distracted from your shopping list if it's nearing a meal time and your stomach is growling. If you're shopping with your kids, have them help you make the list and then let them hold the list while you shop. Get them involved in marking items off the list to remind them you're there only for what you planned to buy and nothing else.

Look at and adapt your list You can save a lot of money and avoid waste simply by shopping your pantry before you go to the store. How many times have you found yourself in the spice aisle racking your brain to try to remember how much cinnamon you already have in the back of the cupboard? It does take extra time but have your kids help you look through your pantry the night before as you make your list. Again, it will help them remember to stay on task while shopping and it's a great moment to teach them about the importance of avoiding

waste. As you're making your list, try to adapt to make use of what you already have.

If you know you're going to have a lot of extra shredded cheese from one recipe, for example, perhaps swap out another side item on your menu with something that's going to use up that extra cheese.

Plan for leftovers Leftovers at large holiday gatherings are almost guaranteed. More times than not, hosts end up with extra food at the end of an event. While you're preparing a large meal, be thinking ahead to how leftovers will be stored and used. Decide what and how much of certain menu items you will freeze for the future. Take good care of perishable food items so you can share them with co-workers the following day. One of the most common leftovers at a holiday party are cheese and veggie trays. Below is one of Susan's favorite ways to use these leftovers the next day.

Freezer tips for dairy items:

Your freezer is often the key to stretching your food budget and avoiding waste. Big holiday meals often mean lots of leftover dairy products. Here are some handy tips for freezing them to stretch your food budget: • Milk can be frozen but the texture will change. If you do freeze milk, plan to use it in a soup or baked item as you may not like the texture when drinking it by itself. Be sure to freeze it in a container that leaves extra room for expansion as the temperature changes.

• Cheese freezes great, so go ahead and shred leftover cheese and freeze in an airtight container to use in a recipe later.

• Yogurt does not freeze well, so do your best to use leftover yogurt in alternate recipes while it's still fresh.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

Breakfast Kabobs

Ingredients • 4 wooden skewers • 3 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into ¾-inch cubes • Strawberries, bananas, mango chunks and/or grapes • Square frozen waffle, heated, cut into squares • ½ cup plain or vanilla yogurt • 1 Tbsp orange marmalade Instructions • Assemble kabobs, alternating cheese, fruit and waffle. Combine yogurt and marmalade. Serve with kabobs.

Serves two.

Family Favorites We need your opinion

Bonus: You could win a trip to the Gaylord Texan

Each fall for the last five years, our readers have nominated the “best of the best” in local businesses that serve families. From favorite restaurants, shops and party venues to physicians and family services, we ask for your help to name which in the OKC area deserve to be our Family Favorites this year. This list then helps thousands of local families discover the best resources in central Oklahoma.

Here are just some of the dozens of categories in our Family Favorites campaign: restaurants, birthday party venues, car dealerships, camps, schools, places and events, after-school activities, parks and local shopping.

We're proud to recognize local business owners for their service to the Oklahoma City community. This year's nomination period ends Sunday, Nov. 20. You can nominate your favorites each day! In early December, we'll open voting for the topnominated finalists to determine the winner in each category.

What's in it for you?

All Aboard the Central Express!

In addition to contributing to an important list to reference throughout the year, when you nominate and vote, you'll be eligible to win a holiday trip to the Gaylord Texan worth more than $900! To be eligible for the prize, we ask that you at least nominate in 10 of the 85 categories.

6-9PM, FRIDAY

Let us know about your favorite local businesses by visiting www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ familyfavoritesokc.

NIGH UNIVERSITY CENTER LIGHTING CEREMONY

DEC. 2, 2016 AT OLD NORTH AT 6 PM

ACTIVITIES: COOKIES, HOLIDAY CRAFTS, INFLATABLES, TRACKLESS TRAIN RIDES, PHOTO WITH SANTA IF YOU DONATE A TOY FOR A LOCAL CHARITY

LOTS OF FAMILY FUN ACTIVITIES!

www.uco.edu/winterglow (405)974-2363 www.facebook.com/UCOWinterGlow @ucowinterglow

GAYLORD TEXAN RESORT IN GRAPEVINE PHOTO PROVIDED

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA CAMPUS ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

editor’s picks

Top Spots for Volunteering The holidays bring an extra focus to the needs of non-profits and now is a great time to get your family involved in volunteer efforts. However, Oklahoma City's charities need help yearround. Make a commitment this Thanksgiving to take on a volunteer responsibility even after the holiday season is over at any of these incredible charities.

Positive Tomorrows

556-5082 www.positivetomorrows.org Why We Love It: Positive Tomorrows is a school for children facing the challenges of homelessness. The school works to meet the unique needs of their students and remove barriers both academically and socially. Volunteers can help with afterschool activities, lunch, classroom reading time and more. Families can help by hosting a donation drive for much-needed items including classroom snacks, food for the school lunch program, personal care items, clothing and school supplies. You can even shop from teachers’ wish lists on Amazon.

Or, your family could cook up a meal for the monthly parent support group or craft some themed snacks for Family Movie Fridays.

On-site volunteers must be at least 16 years and accompanied by an adult (exceptions are made for high school seniors).

Infant Crisis Services

4224 N. Lincoln Blvd., 528-3663 www.infantcrisis.org Why We Love It: This non-profit

makes sure thousands of babies and toddlers

in the Oklahoma City area get desperatelyneeded items each year, like diapers, clothes and even formula. Opportunities are available for kids as young as 10 to help stock and assemble these items. Young volunteers should be accompanied by an adult.

Hope Center

1251 N. Broadway, Edmond 348-1340 www.hopecenterofedmond.com Why We Love It: Edmond's Hope Center was developed by a coalition of churches that got together to meet the basic necessities of needy Edmond residents. Last year, their volunteers helped provide food to more than 3,000 families, household goods and baby items to more than 4,000 people and rent and utility assistance to more than 1,400 families. Volunteer opportunities are available for kids as young as 10. All children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Regional Food Bank

3355 S. Purdue, 600-3161, www. regionalfoodbank.org/volunteer Why We Love It: The Regional Food

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

Bank works tirelessly to serve those in our community without food security. Volunteers with the organization have the unique opportunities to sort donated items, pack bags for seniors and children and even work in the greenhouse or garden. Volunteers as young as 8 years old can find a way to help at the Regional Food Bank.

White Fields

7127 N County Line Road, N.E., Piedmont, 302-5123 www.whitefieldsok.com Why We Love It: White Fields is a non-profit that cares for abused and neglected boys in the custody of the state of Oklahoma.

While mentoring and tutoring volunteer opportunities are reserved for adults, there are plenty of ways to get your kids involved in giving back to this worthy cause, including hosting donation drives and putting together welcome baskets for boys to receive when they arrive at White Fields.

[Editor's Note: Find even more volunteer opportunities for families at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/volunteer.

Plus find more ideas for holiday giving and volunteering on page 10.]

Departing

Stillwater, OK EasternFlyerPolarExpressRide.com

THE POLAR EXPRESS: TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

(s16)

Spirit of Giving

FEED THE CHILDREN

8 Places to Volunteer This Season

BY LINDSAY CUOMO, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Alpaca

There's no better time to give back to your community than the holiday season. Here are eight charities that provide specific holiday opportunities to serve others.

Help Oklahoma teachers by volunteering in Feed the Children’s Teacher Store.

333 N. Meridian Ave. 1-800-627-4556 www.feedthechildren.org Feed the Children’s Teacher Store provides books and supplies to teachers in Title 1 schools across our state free of charge.

Your family can help sort and stock shelves with essentials teachers need for their classrooms. Your family also can spend a day in the warehouse filling boxes with food and essentials that will be delivered to families in need and backpacks full of school supplies for homeless kids across the U.S. There are volunteer shifts available mostly Monday through Friday but monthly evening and Saturday opportunities also are available. Create a volunteer profile at www.feedthechildren.org/act/volunteer to be matched with the right opportunity for your family.

Serve those in need at City Rescue Mission.

800 W. California Ave. 232-2709 www.cityrescue.org

Blast Off

Halter and Fleece Competition

Families can serve during the Mission’s annual Christmas Banquet on Christmas Day, help in the toy store open Dec. 20-23 for homeless parents to shop for Christmas presents for their kids, work in the Food Resource Center or organize a neighborhood collection for food, toys, gifts or yearround needs like new socks and underwear.

Register online to browse opportunities and sign up to help at www.cityrescue.org.

Share in the giving spirit through the Center for Children and Families’ Holiday Wishes Program.

210 S. Cockrel, Norman 364-1420 www.ccfinorman.org Through the Holiday Wishes Program, the Center for Children and Families provides the hundreds of children they serve with gifts and families in need with important essentials this holiday season. Your family can adopt a child’s wish list and shop for gifts, donate $25 gift cards that will be used to purchase kids’ clothing or conduct a drive for toys, books, gift cards and warm weather essentials that will help bring joy to those having difficulties this holiday season.

November 19th 9-5 November 20th 9-1 p.m.

Guthrie, Oklahoma Educational Exhibits & Alpaca 101 Kids Activities Pet a "Paca" • Pics with a "Paca" Farm Life Photo Exhibit Alpaca Product Vendors Made in Oklahoma Vendors A Fun and Unique Holiday Shopping Experience!

Alpacas are sustainable certified livestock that thrive on small acreages!

CITY RESCUE MISSION METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

11

NOVEMBER 2016

For more info: alpacasofoklahoma.com like us on facebook!

Bless a child with special needs at The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital.

6800 N.W. 39th Expressway, Bethany 789-6711 www.miracleshappenhere.org Be a holiday helper and collect items the hospital uses the most, like baby shampoo or the 5,000 diapers used a week as well as books, music and toys to support patients in special education and therapy sessions.

Families can also adopt a patient this holiday season and shop from a wish list of individualized needs like therapeutic items, bedside entertainment and gifts.

The hospital staff puts together a list of five wishes that cost $25 or less for families to choose three to purchase.

Share the joys of the season with families in need by helping Sharing Tree.

5728 S. May Ave. 634-2006 www.sharingtreeok.org Formerly known as the Christmas Connection, Sharing Tree is now open yearround, stocked with clothing, household items and basic necessities for Oklahoma children and families in need. Come Christmas, the shelves of the facility will be brimming with even more blessings. Laid out like a department store, Sharing Tree customers can enjoy a dignified shopping experience at no cost. But, they need the community's help to pull it all off. Volunteers are needed to sort donations, stock shelves, hang coats and clothing and complete a variety of other tasks in order to have it all ready in time. Families with kids as young as 13 can help with the holiday preparations and kids 15 and older can help during the Christmas shopping days Dec. 13–17. Two shifts will be available each day: 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 12:45 to 5:30 p.m.

Reach out to children around the world with Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. www.samaritanspurse.org For 23 years, Samaritan’s Purse has been on a mission they call Operation Christmas Child. Families from across the nation fill shoeboxes with gifts, hygiene items, school supplies and a personal note and photo.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

Samaritan’s Purse then uses the treasures and personal letters inside to communicate with millions of children in more than 150 countries that someone cares for them.

During National Collection Week which kicks off on Nov. 14 and runs through Nov. 21, your family can assemble one or more boxes and drop them off at one of the local drop-off locations that can be found at www. samaritanspurse.org. For a $7 donation, you can receive a tracking label to follow your box to its destination.

Help bring the holiday spirit to Oklahoma's foster children with Citizens Caring for Children’s Joy 4 Kids Event.

730 W. Wilshire Creek Blvd., Ste. 112 753-4099 www.citizenscaringforchildren.org Just before Christmas arrives, Santa’s Helpers are hard at work preparing many wonderful surprises and your family can be one of those helpers. Through the Joy 4 Kids programs, thousands of gifts are collected for Oklahoma foster kids and volunteers are needed to help at the gift drop-off location in Northpark Mall open Dec. 15-20. Families can help collect, sort and organize the donations to ensure the gifts make it to their important final destination by Christmas morning. Teens in grades 9 and up can help without a parent present and younger kids are welcome on a case-by-case basis.

Families also are invited to help in the Resources Center. Open year-round, foster kids can shop for essentials like clothing, shoes, pajamas, coats and books. Volunteers are needed to sort clothing, help with inventory, stock shelves and assemble kits and duffle bags and more.

Serve the community with The Salvation Army.

1001 N. Pennsylvania Ave. 246-1101, www.salvationarmyokcac.org November and December are very active months for The Salvation Army which means there are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to get involved. Families can help with the Thanksgiving Day festivities at The Salvation Army Chesapeake Energy Center of Hope or donate a turkey for the community meal. Sign up to participate as a bell ringer between Nov. 18 and Dec. 24.

Adopt an angel from the Angel Tree at Penn Square Mall or Quail Springs Mall from Nov. 15 to Dec. 12 or organize a toy drive at

your local school, business or church group.

Toy drive donations need to be dropped off

by Dec. 10 to deliver to kids by Christmas.

Other volunteer opportunities include: providing, preparing and serving an evening meal in The Salvation Army Red Shield Diner, assisting clients with their groceries in the Client Choice Food pantry and spending time with seniors at one of their five senior centers. For more information regarding these volunteer opportunities, please contact Liz Banks at 246-1107 or liz.banks@uss. salvationarmy.org.

[Editor's Note: If you are looking for even more opportunities to give back, find our article about year-round volunteer opportunities on page 8 of this issue or check out our popular volunteer list on our website, www.metrofamilymagazine.com/volunteer.]

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

The fall of high-stakes testing What's next for Oklahoma students & teachers?

BY ERIN PAGE

ILLUSTRATIONS BY BRITTANY VIKLUND, WWW.BRITTANYVIKLUND.COM

WE MAKE YOUR SMART KID EVEN SMARTER! ©2016 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“Such a heavy emphasis on testing has stifled the creative process for everyone,” said Putnam City North English teacher Stephanie Anderson, whose 10th grade students formerly had to pass the English II EOI to graduate. “It has also started to create an environment where kids just want to give the right answer, rather than work through the thinking process.”

“Oklahoma is finally asking the right question: ‘What’s best for kids?’” said Carrie Jacobs, Oklahoma City Public Schools board member and former teacher. “Excessive testing was stealing classroom days away from students.”

“There is no reason to pay millions of dollars for testing that is not something our students can use beyond high school,” said Anderson.

Under the former law, high school students had to pass at least four of seven End of Instruction (EOI) tests to graduate. In many cases, teachers had to give all seven tests at every opportunity, a minimum of three times per year, to ensure students would pass. That’s 21 half-days of a student’s year spent testing, to say nothing of the time spent preparing for each of those tests.

“Our students are not free to learn in a way that works for them and our teachers are not free to aid in learning that is beneficial for each student.”

Misty Warfield, Putnam City School District mom

Under the EOI system, student testing in Oklahoma cost more than $18 million and eliminating EOI testing could save upwards of $5 to $7 million. Only a fraction of student testing is paid for with federal funds.

Student test scores were reflected in Oklahoma schools’ A-F grading systems, meaning schools in which students didn’t test well received a lower grade. The school grading system, which Norman Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joseph Siano calls “misleading and inaccurate,” is often blamed for spurring such a high-stakes, high-stress testing environment.

“Due to data concerns, teachers are often told what to teach and when to teach it,” said Anderson. “We want to facilitate a love of learning, and ‘teaching to the test’ does not allow that creative side.”

Meika Hines, mom of Norman Public Schools students, was shocked to see how testing affected even her pre-kindergarten daughter. She recalls a certain day when her daughter, who reads at a second grade level, simply didn’t want to identify certain letters on a test because “4-year-olds don’t always feel like cooperating.”

“I don’t believe all of these ridiculous tests can measure students' success or METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

FOR AG

ES

H

igh-stakes testing of Oklahoma students has long been a concern of educators and parents alike. While state legislators were reducing public education funding thanks to a $1.3 million budget shortfall earlier this year, they also passed new legislation in May that will change the way Oklahoma students are assessed.

The unique Kumon Method can give your child an academic advantage.

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intelligence,” said Hines. “I definitely don’t believe the stress it puts on their little shoulders is worth the time, effort and energy our teachers are having to expend to test them.”

“Such a heavy emphasis on testing has stifled the creative process for everyone.”

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Putnam City North English teacher Stephanie Anderson While testing reform is in the cards for Oklahoma, it’s not certain what will replace the old high-stakes testing process. The message is clear, though, that preserving time in the classroom teaching relevant content and preparing students for college, not a test, is a priority in our public schools.

“The immediate effect will be more time in the classroom,” said Jacobs. “High school teachers and students can focus on the new academic standards, not a single test at the end of the year.”

The call for reform

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Student testing stems from the need for accountability in public schools, which most administrators and educators welcome.

“Our work is about student achievement and measuring and adjusting our work in relation,” said Siano. “We have always been supportive of accountability.”

End-of-the-year tests should aid schools in identifying their weak areas, and then realigning curriculum and providing professional development for teachers based on those weaknesses. Because of inconsistent testing vendors, standards changes and unreliable data, Shannon Thompson, dean of academics for Moore Public Schools, said Oklahoma schools and teachers haven’t been fully able to take advantage of the data provided.

“Without consistency, you cannot trust the data that is supposed to be guiding your planning,” Thompson said.

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As the amount of student assessment has steadily increased since the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, the benefits of those assessments have not, instead putting undue pressure on students and teachers and compromising students’ education. Thompson has seen her district’s high

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NOVEMBER 2016

school students suffer from losing valuable instructional minutes in the classroom, even becoming physically ill from the stress of having to pass tests to graduate. High school students were giving up special career courses and career exploration programs to instead take remedial classes meant to prepare them for EOIs. “We have to think about the goals of learning,” said Jacobs. “Those goals have to be so much bigger than a single high-stakes test.”

In the face of pressure for students to test well, Anderson feels fortunate that her principals have still been supportive of creative teaching. When she wanted to teach drama in September to coordinate with a performance of “Othello” by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park, her administration allowed her the flexibility, even though testing guidelines called for her to be teaching short stories. She received very positive feedback from students and their families who saw the performance together but she knows many of her colleagues haven’t had that luxury.

“There is no reason to pay millions of dollars for testing that is not something our students can use beyond high school."

Putnam City North English teacher Stephanie Anderson

“Teachers need the freedom to be creative and flexible within our own classrooms,” Anderson said. “Testing has taken a lot of that away from us.”

Thompson said Moore has combated the “teaching to the test” mentality by encouraging teachers to collaborate,

share instructional practices and integrate subject areas as much as possible, freeing up time for more creative lessons and activities.

Still, she has seen the profession suffer under the stress and frustration of testing.

“There have been many mid-career age teachers resign, claiming the pressures of testing as the reason they left the profession,” Thompson said. “I feel it has greatly contributed to the teacher shortage.”

Oklahoma’s old EOI tests were created specifically for the state and didn’t compare to other states’ testing mechanisms or show college or career readiness. Siano calls EOIs one of the “least impactful assessments in terms of advising instruction.” He found that the quality varied and the benchmarks of passing or failing changed from year to year. Instead of preparing kids for college, teachers were preparing kids to pass EOIs. “We have teachers spending the entire school year preparing kids to take a test,” said Putnam City School District mom Misty Warfield. “This type of instruction is not conducive to a positive learning environment and it is wearing on our students and educators. Our students are not free to learn in a way that works for them and our teachers are not free to aid in learning that is beneficial for each student.”

“I don’t believe all of these ridiculous tests can measure students' success or intelligence. I definitely don’t believe the stress it puts on their little shoulders is worth the time, effort and energy our teachers are having to expend to test them.”

Meika Hines, mom of Norman Public Schools students

As teachers and students suffered under the high-stakes testing regime, many, including State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister, called for reform and legislators listened.

A year of transition The new legislation successfully rids students and teachers of all non-federally required tests, save one. Now, high school students will take tests in English, math, science and U.S. history just once in their

high school career. The new law drops five other state tests in lower grades, now requiring one English and one math test in each grade from three through eight, a science test in grades three through five and a science test in grades six through nine.

“We have to think about the goals of learning.

Those goals have to be so much bigger than a single high-stakes test.”

Carrie Jacobs, Oklahoma City Public Schools board member and former teacher

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“It’s as if a weight has been lifted off of me,” said Laughlin of the new legislation. “I felt as if my job wasn’t to teach, but to teach students how to take a test.”

Perhaps most reflective of a change in testing mentality, students won’t necessarily have to pass tests to receive their high school diplomas.

“Withholding a child's diploma because of a single exam is unconscionable and it has been happening in Oklahoma,” Jacobs said. “There are too many variables that one multiple-choice exam can't take into account.”

This school year will be one of transition and while EOIs won’t be administered, the final decision on which tests will stand longterm has not been made. This year, tests that satisfy the new requirements will be pulled from the state’s bank of testing materials.

The State Board of Education must issue an RFP to build a new assessment system for grades 3 through 12, which will begin in the 2017-2018 school year.

New tests must provide compatibility with tests in other states. At the high school level, they must provide a measure of students’ future academic performance and career readiness to colleges, universities and employers. Students’ highest test scores will be reflected on their transcripts.

Depending on availability of funding, Oklahoma could offer a nationally recognized high school test, like the ACT or SAT, to all students free of charge.

About half of the states require high school students to take the ACT or SAT, and a dozen use one of those tests for their high school accountability test, saving testing time and focusing on preparing students for college.

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NOVEMBER 2016

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“Moving to something like the ACT will help,” said Anderson. “However, testing still means data and school report cards and emphasizing a test rather than the whole picture. There is a balance but we need to work to find it.”

After several years of changing standards and assessments, Siano is encouraged that finally student assessments will match teaching standards.

The A-F letter grade system for schools will also need reform, as it’s based on student test scores. Schools will still be assigned an A-F rating this year based on scores from the new testing procedures but the State Department of Education will have to develop a new system by Jan 1. Many school administrators are eager to see the rating system go; Siano hopes the Department of Education’s new system is more accurate, informed and reflective of what goes on day in and day out in Oklahoma schools.

As a 10th grade English teacher, Anderson’s students will still have to test in her classroom. Her focus on test preparation and benchmark exams remains the same, regardless of a change in standards or testing.

Educators are cautiously optimistic that a more consistent and reliable assessment process will be in place next school year.

This school year will be full of growing pains for teachers and students alike. New standards were provided to teachers in May and students will be tested over them in April. According to Thompson, the new standards introduce material at different times than in years past, so many teachers will have to teach additional standards this school year to fill in the gaps.

“Oklahoma is already making small steps of progress by acknowledging we have an education crisis in our state and eliminating EOIs,” said Laughlin. “I hope we will continue this progress by examining the tests we are giving our students and making sure they are accurate measures of knowledge and purposeful for longterm success.”

“We have told teachers to teach using these new standards, understanding that due to the increase in rigor and difficulty, students’ scores may fall,” said Thompson.

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“We don’t know a lot about this test but my guess is it will be very similar to the EOI in style or format,” said Anderson. “I don’t [see] a lot changing for me in regards to being able to teach more creatively.”

“You can’t tell the story of a school by giving one letter,” said Siano. “We all know schools are a lot more.”

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“Now we have stabilized what our standards are going to be going forward,” said Siano.

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NOVEMBER 2016

saturday December 10 • 2 p.m.

mitch park all ages

mom gets the last laugh

That Which Doesn’t Match

ILLUSTRATION BY BRITTANY VIKLU

T

hanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. Growing up, we’d go to Dallas to be with my Dad’s brother and his family.

Their aunt and cousin from Atlanta would fly in for the holiday and it was a formal affair. My sister and I not only wore dresses, but we had to wear slips and hose as well. That’s very confining for a 10-year-old.

My aunt would set an elaborate table with approximately 17 forks at each place setting. (I only used one.) Everyone had a water glass, a tea glass and a wine glass. Everyone. (I only drank water because I was a child, not because I didn’t try.) The napkins were linen and didn’t have designs stamped into them. The placemats were not plastic and didn’t contain cartoon characters. And—get this—everything matched.

Every family ages and this was no different in my family. Uncles and fathers pass away. Aunts and mothers grow older. Kids grow up, go METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

ND, WWW.BRIT TANY VIKLUND.COM

to college, get jobs, move away, get married, have their own kids and start their own traditions.

Now, we go to my husband’s family’s house for Thanksgiving. When everyone shows up, there are approximately ninety-eleven-hundred of us. My mother-in-law is a smart woman. She sets out the Chinet platters and the plastic ware. This is my kinda spread. More times than not, at home for everyday occasions and fancy occasions alike, we use disposable meal service items. Partly because I’m a tired momma and I know most of the clean up will fall to me. Mostly, though, it’s convenient.

I beg Mother Earth’s forgiveness with each bag of trash I take out.

Occasionally, though, I long for the days of my youth. I long for the fancy-schmancy dinner where we break out the good china and the real silverware and the glass glasses and the linen placemats (but not the linen napkins because I don’t have that much fancy running in my blood).

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So, it was just last year when I decided I would teach our daughters how to make a Thanksgiving dinner … a week early. I would teach them about the place setting and about balanced eating and about making mashed potatoes out of actual potatoes and not flakes.

We went shopping for the turkey and we bought cornmeal to make cornbread for the dressing. We were doing everything as authentically as possible. With our menu set and our groceries in the fridge, we made our cooking schedule. The weekend was spent preparing for our feast. Sunday, after church, we set about cooking and preparing.

By 7 p.m., we were ready to set the table. A glorious, formal meal awaited.

The girls selected the placemats and set them around the table. They decided to serve the meal buffet-style so the centerpiece of pumpkins and mums could remain on the table. They YouTubed how to fold a napkin into a great shape. (This was probably the most stressful part of the whole ordeal.)

Then, at the last minute, we opened the flatware drawer to set the table for our family: One mom, one dad, two daughters

and one Nana.

“I’ll grab the knives!” my younger daughter said and noisily scooped up the utensils.

“We won’t need eight knives,” I explained, thinking of our eight-setting silverware that my husband’s grandmother had given us when we were married.

“Good,” she said. “We only have three.”

Three? Ummm … wait. Three taken from eight means that we had five knives that were missing. I checked the sink. There were knives a plenty thanks to all the dicing, slicing and cutting we’d done in preparation, but not any that were table knives. I opened the dishwasher. There was one solitary serving spoon in the silverware basket.

I spun to look at the girls. “Okay,” I sighed, “No biggie. Just set them beside the butter.

We’ll share.”

“We only have four forks,” my older daughter said.

“Well, don’t use the salad forks. Everyone just gets one fork.”

“No,” she further explained, “Four forks total.”

I slowly spun in the kitchen, taking in all the possibilities, thinking that maybe they might appear from nowhere. Maybe, like in a Harry Potter film, they’d float in as needed.

“Where could the utensils be?” I said.

Then remembering when the girls were preschoolers and not teenagers, I questioned them. “Have you been digging outside in the dirt with our silverware?”

They shook their heads but slowly backed out of the kitchen, retreating where I knew not.

I grabbed the baggie of leftover party utensils.

Some green forks, some blue spoons, a few clear knives. I dispatched them to their respective and rightful places at the table as the girls returned to the kitchen, their hands full of bowls, cups and copious amounts of silverware. My glistening flatware retrieved from the rooms of hungry teenagers.

Clearly, fancy is lost on this generation. And, my dishwasher hands aren’t that sad about it at all.

Heather Davis is an Oklahoma momma & a writer. You can contact her through her website, www.Heather-Davis.net.

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NOVEMBER 2016

Adding a Furry Family Member Practical tips for adopting a pet into your family this holiday season

BY LINDSAY CUOMO PHOTOS BY MARK DOESCHER

A

dopting a pet is a big choice for most families. Whether you are adding to your menagerie or just getting started, there are a lot of things to consider. We sat down with some local experts to help metro families sort out the pet adoption process.

If your family is anything like the ones we see on TV, the kids are likely lobbying for a cute and cuddly companion while the parents try to avoid the added mouth to feed, train and keep alive. But you may not know all the positive benefits a pet can bring to the family.

“Pets are all about unconditional love and there are a great deal of benefits from that companionship,” explained Dr. Lisa Marotta, a clinical psychologist from Edmond. “Most consider a pet a family member, a living being that will listen, love and not steal their stuff.”

But there are also more than just those benefits to having a pet, Marotta added.

“Pets can help develop social skills, including

nonverbal communication,” she said. “A pet’s whole way of communication is nonverbal and kids learn how to understand and respond to their nonverbal cues. For example, if a child is too loud, the animal will likely move away. Also, when pets are taken care of they respond in a positive way. Kids can learn empathy by thinking about another living being and their needs and it’s a way for a child to contribute to the family or community in a tangible and important way.”

And that is often where parents might have some trepidation. Adopting a family pet is a serious commitment. Some research, conversation and practice can help your family decide if and when it’s the right time.

Julie Bank, superintendent of Oklahoma City Animal Welfare, agreed that having a family pet offers many benefits.

“Everyone should be a part of the conversation, but ultimately, it is an adult decision,” Bank advised.

“Animals have an integral role in the family,” Bank explained. “A pet can bring families together with a common focus and goal and give a child someone to connect to, get them out of the house, can build confidence and add lots of new love.”

However, as someone who sees what happens when pet ownership doesn’t work out as expected, Bank also noted having a pet alone does not teach responsibility.

“You can’t really expect a child to be fully responsible for a living thing,” Bank cautioned. “Parents will have to help.”

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NOVEMBER 2016

While puppies are likely the first thing to pop into a child’s mind, that may not be the best option for a family. There are so many animals, breeds and different ages to consider and that is where research and conversation come in.

An open and informed conversation before adopting a pet will increase the chance that whatever choice is made will be the right one. Important things to consider are: your living situation, your family’s lifestyle, your available financial commitment and your family’s level of experience with animals.

“First, identify your household traits,” suggested Abby Wolfe, director of marketing and communications with Central Oklahoma Humane Society. “Are you an active household that is always buzzing? Or, are you a quiet household that needs a Netflix buddy?

Do you have extra space? Or, do you need a

pet who doesn’t bark because you live in an apartment?”

Bank said she’s seen some families choose a pet purely based on looks, which doesn’t lend the best result.

“Maybe you aren’t ready for a dog but maybe something like a guinea pig would fit your family better,” she said. “Research your choice so you know what is right for your family.”

Marotta added that even a fish can sometimes be the perfect companion for a child.

There are a variety of ways to find out what pet is right for your family. In fact, Oklahoma City Animal Welfare, in partnership with A New Leash on Life, offers a monthly Your New Dog Workshop, which is aimed at new or potential pet owners. Your family can learn about how dogs think, learn and communicate and how to handle common challenges like house training, jumping, barking and chewing as well as appropriate games for kids and dogs to play together. New Leash on Life also has a behavior hotline that can help with issues that may arise once you bring a pet into your home.

Bank also said shelter and rescue group staff can be a valuable resource for potential pet owners. The Oklahoma Animal Welfare website has several links available to help educate new and potential pet owners.

If you have any doubts about your family’s level of commitment and abilities, you might consider a practice period before actually making the commitment.

“Have your kids build confidence before getting a pet by giving them a similar responsibility for say two weeks to show they are ready,” Marotta said. “They can help with dinner prep and clean up or help a neighbor or family member care for their pet. This will help prepare them for the icky and cleanliness involved, following directions and the follow through. If it doesn’t work, try it again at a later time.

Remember, it is a learning experience.”

Setting reasonable expectations is also important.

“Preschoolers can help in providing water and safe touch and play,” Marotta said.

“School-age kids can help with things like feeding, cleaning, training and scooping poop, adding responsibility as they get older and are more successful over time.”

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NOVEMBER 2016

Once you have decided whether or not your family is ready to adopt a pet and what type is right for you, the next step is to decide where you will find your pet. The Oklahoma City Animal Shelter has the largest amount of animals locally and the most variety, sometimes including uncommon options like rabbits, horses or guinea pigs. There are also many rescue groups around the metro including the Central Oklahoma Humane Society and The Bella Foundation.

“There are also groups that focus on specific breeds if that is something you are looking for but you’ll need to be patient sometimes,” said Bank. “Perfectly amazing animals come into shelters all the time usually because of a breakdown in the family. The ones we determine to put up for adoption are great pets."

Because many rescue organizations and shelters are foster-based, Wolfe said, they can provide details about a pet’s personality.

Bank cautions against getting a pet from an ad in the paper but said rescue groups can help point families toward responsible breeders.

to benefit the shelter, make pet toys or create art to let others know why they should be kind to animals.

All the details about volunteering and the Kids for OKC Animals program can be found online at www.okc.gov/animalwelfare.

Fostering a homeless pet is another way to help and determine whether your family is ready for a permanent pet.

“The impact a foster family can have in the life of a pet is great,” Wolfe said. “A two-to three-week commitment with an animal allows organizations to save their life from potential euthanasia in local shelters but also makes room for the life waiting to fill their spot behind them. It is a small, simple act of kindness with a huge impact.”

Foster opportunities are available at a number of shelters and rescue groups, including Oklahoma City Animal Welfare and Central Oklahoma Humane Society.

“Currently, Oklahoma ranks among the worst states for puppy mills,” Wolfe said. “In addition, two puppy mills in Oklahoma rank on the Horrible Hundred list published to raise awareness of puppy mills who put profit over the animals they sell. Highly-desirable breeds as well as mixed-breed pets find their way into shelters every day. By looking (at a shelter) before going to a breeder, pet owners can help save the lives of pets in Oklahoma and help control the large amount of breeders in the state of Oklahoma.”

If your family isn’t quite ready for a pet, there are still plenty of ways your kids can experience the benefits of interacting with animals and a great way to do that is to volunteer at a local shelter or rescue group.

Volunteering is also another great source of research. Your family can try it out and make a difference in an animal’s life at the same time.

There are a variety of ways to help animals in need. Oklahoma City Animal Welfare has a lengthy list of volunteer positions including a Kids for OKC Animals program.

“Whether taking dogs to vet appointments, helping keep our facilities clean, walking dogs or even socializing kittens, it takes a community to save thousands of lives every year,” Wolfe said. “Without volunteers, local shelters and organizations could not do their great work for animals in central Oklahoma.”

The Kids for OKC Animals program allows even the youngest kids to have an impact.

Kids can host a donation drive, plan an event

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NOVEMBER 2016

Shelters and Rescue Groups to adopt a pet: The Bella Foundation 1-866-318-PETS, thebellafoundation.org Specializes in dogs and cats

Best Friends of Pets 418-8511, www.bestfriendsofpets.org

Central Oklahoma Humane Society 286-1229, www.okhumane.org Specializes in dogs and cats

Edmond Animal Services 216-7615, www.edmondok.com Specializes in dogs and cats

Free to Live Animal Sanctuary 282-8617, www.freetoliveok.org Specializes in dogs and cats

Forever Yours Dog Rescue www.foreveryoursokc.org Specializes in dogs

Midwest City Animal Welfare 427-6640, www.midwestcityok.org Specializes in dogs and cats

Moore Animal Shelter and Adoption Center 793-5190, www.cityofmoore.com Specializes in dogs and cats

Mustang Animal Shelter 376-2488, www.cityofmustang.org Advance appointment required.

Specializes in dogs and cats

Norman Animal Welfare Center 292-9736, www.normanok.gov/content/ animal-welfare Specializes in dogs and cats

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare 297-3100, www.okc.gov/animalwelfare Variety of animals available for adoption

Pets and People Humane Society 350-7387, www.petsandpeople.com Specializes in dogs and cats

Safe Haven Animal Rescue 463-1556, www.safehavenanimalrescue.org Dogs, cats, ferrets, guinea pigs and other pocket pets

Second Chance Animal Sanctuary 321-1915, www.secondchancenorman.com Specializes in dogs and cats

Places to volunteer to help animals: The Bella Foundation 1-866-318-PETS, thebellafoundation.org Help with animal adoption events, low cost vaccine clinics, fundraising, transporting animals and fostering.

Central Oklahoma Humane Society 286-1229, www.okhumane.org Take dogs to the vet, help clean the facilities, walk dogs, socialize kittens and fostering.

Free to Live Animal Sanctuary 282-8617, www.freetoliveok.org Help with adoption events, to socialize and care for the animals, clean the facilities, do laundry, maintenance and more.

Forever Yours Dog Rescue www.foreveryoursokc.org

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Help with adoption outreach, fundraisers, animal transportation, website and paperwork.

Midwest City Animal Welfare 427-6640, www.midwestcityok.org Help with adoption events, kitten socialization, photography, office tasks, cleaning of kennels, transportation, training, fundraising and fostering.

Moore Animal Shelter and Adoption Center 793-5190, www.cityofmoore.com Help with animal care and grooming, walking dogs, adoption events and training.

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare 297-3100, www.okc.gov/animalwelfare Help with adoption, animal care, clerical, special events, education, maintenance and cleaning, fostering, photography and the vet clinic. Kids for OKC Animals program available for all ages. Must be 13 & up to handle animals; 18 & under require an accompanying adult over the age of 21.

Pets and People Humane Society 350-7387, www.petsandpeople.com Help with socialization, walks, cleaning and more. Volunteers age 13 to 17 must fill out a required parental consent form.

Second Chance Animal Sanctuary 321-1915, www.secondchancenorman.com Help with adoption clinics, walking dogs, socializing cats, cleaning, laundry, office work and customer service and fostering.

Volunteers under the age of 18 are welcome with parent or guardian on-site.

Safe Haven Animal Rescue 463-1556, www.safehavenanimalrescue.org Help maintain adoption facilities at PETCO & PetSmart, assist with events and foster care.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

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Parenthood Simplified Tips for a Tech-Free Holiday Season

BY KATE SAFFLE AND MELISSA RISENHOOVER OF COHESIVE HOME

Imagine the perfect holiday scene: the fireplace is crackling with fresh logs, the tree is glittering with lights and all the children are giggling happily while baking cookies together in the kitchen. Or does it look something more like this? Your teenager is Snapchatting with her friends, the little ones are watching a movie and you’re texting your other half to pick up some frozen cookie dough. We all have our idea of the perfect holiday, but often real life and technology get in the way. This holiday season, why don’t you try our five favorite tips for limiting tech and five ways to replace that with more quality time?

Set the Example

Turn off the TV

We’re all for watching holiday-themed movies as a family. But having the TV on in the background throughout the day or during family gatherings is a distraction that can limit positive family interaction. Unless the TV watching is intentional, make a point to leave it off.

Take a Social Media Fast

We left the hardest one for the last: take a break from social media, whether for a weekend or for the whole month, to focus on family and the reason for the season. We absolutely understand the allure of social media but it also can be a big time waste.

We cannot expect our kids to go tech-free when they’re on break from school if we’re not willing to do the same. Make a conscious effort to show your kids what it’s like to interact and spend time with family without a phone in hand.

So now what do you do as a family without phones or television? We’re going to suggest a few of our favorite ways to enjoy the holidays without technology. Maybe one will become a new family tradition!

Tech Free Weekends

Pick out a few classics from the library and collect your kids’ favorites from years past.

Read them together in the evenings as you snuggle together and unwind from the day.

Use this time to connect, to share stories about your own childhood and plan your holiday celebrations.

We won’t ask you to give up your phone for the entire month of December, but what about on the weekends or in the evenings when together as a family? Call a family meeting, talk about the benefits of going tech-free during certain hours and agree on a rule for the month.

Put the Phones in Time-Out

If your phone is anywhere near you it will be too tempting to use it. Place it out of reach and eyesight and turn the ringer off. Some families like to have a box that everyone drops their tech devices in when it’s time to be together as a family. It’s a physical reminder to disconnect from the outer world and focus on each other.

Read Holiday Books Together

Cooking Party

Gather your closest friends and family and spend an evening baking together or making homemade hot chocolate. Or let your children pick out their favorite recipes and cook a holiday family meal together. It doesn’t have to be fancy to become a special tradition.

Look at Christmas Lights

Hop in the car together and drive around the

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NOVEMBER 2016

city looking at Christmas lights. Listen to the holiday radio station, bring mugs of hot chocolate or spiced apple cider and enjoy the simple pleasure of admiring others’ light displays.

Serve Together as a Family

Find a non-profit organization that resonates with your family and offer to serve together.

This is a good way to connect as a family by connecting with others. Or choose another family you know and surprise them with baked goods, dinner or free babysitting. Take the focus off receiving during the holidays and teach your kids to give with an open and joyful heart. (See pages 8 and 10 for some ideas for family volunteering.)

Family Game Night

Dig out your board games and a few decks of cards and have an old-fashioned game night.

Learn a new game together, make festive drinks and tell stories as you take turns rolling the dice. Let the littlest ones make up a game and the rules and see how long the adults can actually follow them. Be silly with one another and enjoy having a simple night at home together.

Use technology less during this holiday season and truly be present with one another.

Don’t let this season pass in a blur but be intentional with your time together. It’s the greatest gift you can give one another.

Kate Saffle and Melissa Risenhoover, two best friends who met as neighbors in Oklahoma City’s Belle Isle neighborhood, share a passion for guiding families toward stress-free parenting through simplifying. They host the Cohesive Home Podcast as well as offer resources for crafting a happier, values-driven home. Find out more on their website www.cohesivehome.com and connect on Instagram @cohesive_home.

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At Home With

Ashley Whiteside

BY HANNAH SCHMITT PHOTOS BY ELYSE FAIR

A

shley Whiteside lives in Oklahoma City with her husband Brandon and 4-year-old daughter, Nora. Ashley's husband is a local worship pastor. She and her daughter are best known around town for their art. Ashley does design and styling work through her business, Whiteside Art & Interiors. In addition, she and Nora work together to create and sell original paintings.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MFM: Tell us about your family and how you ended up in Oklahoma City.

AW: I moved here in 2009 after college. I went to college in Nashville and Brandon got a job here so I came and started trying to find a job myself. Childcare and education were what I knew, even though my degree was in marketing. I nannied for five years. I had Nora and kept nannying and took her with me to nanny. That whole time I was doing interior design and wedding work on the side.

Then I got this magical job at West Elm when they opened a few years ago. I had five stylists I was overseeing and I just learned so much there but I outgrew it. In March 2014, Nora and I painted a piece of

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art as a gift for her aunt. We weren't artists, but it just seemed like a fun gift. I posted that online and people just went crazy. The management team at West Elm was very supportive, and gave us our first art show. I had 30 days to get 30 pieces painted, which is no small task! During the month there, each piece was spoken for, which I still can not comprehend. After that, the opportunities have been coming almost nonstop!

MFM: Did you or Nora have a background in art?

AW: As for our background—I have been an artist my whole life, but in many different forms. Painting has always been my desire, but the need to be perfect overwhelmed every attempt. Enter Nora, who was not even three when we began, and who could so perfectly inject the right amount of messy brilliance.

Together now we are learning so much from each other, developing a catalog of experiments, and dancing while we cover the studio in happiness.

She goes around at all the art parties handing out cards and asking guests which painting they're planning to buy. It's ridiculous and hilarious but there's so much quirk and charm to all of it that it works. I think people find her and her art approachable and they like the childlike spirit of it. People who buy our art I've noticed they feel like they're encouraging a child to pursue something. A child artist doesn't know risk or humiliation. I see when people take an interest in her art it's building up her confidence and her personality.

MFM: What's a typical day like at home?

AW: Every day is so different with school (Ashley homeschools Nora) but we definitely try to stick to a routine. We have breakfast at 8 a.m. every day and at 8:30 a.m. we go on a walk in our neighborhood.

At 9 a.m., we have lessons, which include things like story time, handwriting, flash cards and even free play. At 10:30 a.m. we cook lunch together and eat it at 11. Then it's rest time while I work on the computer.

We reserve some time in the afternoon for business appointments and Nora goes with me on those. At 4 p.m., we have a field trip, which could be a museum trip, a play date, a park or just visiting something nearby our afternoon appointment. In the evenings, we make dinner and have family time.

MFM: What do you think Nora gains out of being so close to your business experiences?

AW: I think she sees that work has power and that it can bring purpose and pride. She also sees it's not always fun, but you show up anyway. I think painting can be the same

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sometimes. Sometimes it feels more like work and sometimes it feels more fun.

MFM: What are some of your parenting philosophies?

AW: For me, I cannot separate work and parenting. I have to look at parenting through a creative lens or else I feel so much duty and responsibility that it's overwhelming. I have a lot of Montessori training so I draw a lot on that, especially independence-based teaching. That empowers kids. She may only be four but it's important for her to learn relational skills and business skills now. It's bizarre but because of her experiences with art she's starting to bring some order into her world herself and create a sense of space and identity. She understands how to improve things, which is a major concept for someone her age.

MFM: What are the best and worst parts of motherhood?

AW: The worst is that you're never off.

It's a constant responsibility. It's absolutely exhausting for your brain to never, ever really be able to rest. You can be woken up 24 hours a day. It's unlike anything else in that you have this constant, humming machine that requires mom around the clock.

I took a vacation by myself for the first time over the summer. I went on an artist retreat and figured I could just take my yoga mat and my sketch book to Florida and be on my own a while. I am not a paranoid person. But I remember getting on the plane and for the first time it really struck me how frightening it would be if something happened to me on the plane. It's just a different feeling than I've ever had. It's not a complaint, it's just reality.

The whole time your children are alive you're never free of that feeling. It's a good thing but it is tiring.

It's funny because you don't even want to escape it, either. For the first two years of her life I would wear myself out being with her and then she would go take a nap and all I could do is just stay up talking about funny things she did or scrolling through photos of her while I waited for her to wake up. This tiny person is so large and in charge in your life whether you want them to be or not.

The best part is that everything is completely unconditional. There's so much more grace with a child than I ever expected. I'm a perfectionist and having nannied for so many years, I thought I would bring this professional touch to having a baby. That should make me a perfect mom, right? But it doesn't. I'm not a perfect mom and it doesn't even matter. I can completely screw

up and she loves me anyway. I hear it in the mornings when I pour milk over her cereal and she reminds me she didn't actually want that much milk but it's okay, she still loves me. And you love them so, so much. I feel it in every inch of my body. My bones know how much I love her.

MFM: There's a lot of talk among parents about balance. What is it and how do you achieve it?

AW: I want so badly to believe in balance.

I really revere balance. It is this great, transcendent sanctification of life but I can't say I've met one person who believes they have a balanced life. So I feel like the only way to ever feel balanced is to be determined to make tiny steps toward it knowing perfect balance isn't achievable.

MFM: Nora is obviously very creative and many parents want to help foster creativity in their own kids. What tips do you have to do that?

g n i v i L CULTURE EXPERIENCE

AW: Just make it accessible. All I did was give Nora access to be creative. I didn't make a big deal out of it, I just put stuff in front of her and let her explore it. Not just paint, but dirt, Play Dough, blocks. I try to make learning happen in an exploratory fashion.

With painting especially, I've read a lot about how to talk to kids about creativity because if kids learn early on what is good or bad they will try to create what is good. Where is their sense of self in that? Instead of saying, "It's beautiful" or "I love the colors" when they bring you a piece of art, try saying "What were you thinking when you made that?" or "How did you feel when you painted that?" It sounds silly but it changes the entire framework.

MFM: How do you want other people to feel at your house?

AW: Maybe I'm a snob but I don't want people to feel like it's a house where a 4-year-old lives. I like order and I like things to be pretty so we believed in house-proofing our baby instead of baby-proofing our house.

There aren't any toys out and although Nora has a lot of fun at our house, it definitely looks like adults reside there. The benefit of house-proofing her is that now we can pretty much go anywhere and she knows how to behave. We explain proper behavior to her instead of just making her environment unbreakable.

[Editor's Note: This interview was edited for style and clarity. Find more photos of Nora and Ashley at home at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ ashleywhiteside.]

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WWW.CHICKASAWCULTURALCENTER.COM

SULPHUR, OK // 580.622.7130

Holiday Gift Guide This season, let MetroFamily and our advertising partners help you find the perfect gifts for your family and friends. From toys that spark creativity to special handmade items that grandparents will treasure and experiences that will help define your family’s story, you’ll find just what you need in this handy guide. Happy holidays!

Thank you to our gift guide sponsor

The Vintage Pearl

These personalized skinny rings are hand-molded of either sterling silver or gold filled in the Vintage Pearl studio.

Wear one or order several to stack together. Find this unique gift and other beautiful jewelry and home items at their store at 15th and Bryant in Edmond.

330-0100, www.thevintagepearl.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Museum Store at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum You’ll find the perfect thing for your little cowpoke at The Museum Store. With dress-up items, games, books and more, your child is sure to learn something new about the American West in fun, imaginative ways. Find them at 1700 N.E. 63rd St. in Oklahoma City. 478-2250, ext. 228, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Oklahoma History Center

This Oklahoma tea towel from Catstudio ($17) makes a great gift for visitors and Oklahomans, and for many different occasions! Find this and many other great gifts at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. 522-2214, http://bit.ly/OKHistory_towel.

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Cadence Equestrian

Give your child the gift of a new skill this season with horseback riding lessons. Eight lessons for the special price of $295.Located at 14150 S. Pine St., Edmond. 348-7469, www.cadenceequestrian.com

The Meat House

Create custom gift baskets featuring Made in Oklahoma products, grilling accessories and gift cards for world-class meats, cheeses, and desserts from upscale boutique butcher and grocer, The Meat House. Pricing options range from budget-friendly to spoil-themrotten. Call to order or come by 2249 W. Danforth Rd., Edmond, 509-2900, www.edmondmeathouse.com.

Paint ’N Station learning tree toys books and games

MAGFORMERS® is the latest open-ended building toy with magnets and multiple geometric shapes and accessories which allow for higher, stronger building. Find MAGFORMERS and expert age-appropriate toy advice at 7638 N. Western Ave. in Oklahoma City. 848-1415, www.learningtreeokc.com/.

Hand-print plates, platters and mugs are perfect gifts for grandparents. Customize for yourself, a friend or even Santa. He needs his own cookie plate, too! To paint your unique gifts, head to 7906 N. May Ave., Oklahoma City. 842-7770, www.paintnstation.com.

ENJOY

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NOVEMBER 2016

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

your entire purchase!

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Play this fun timed game called makemaki where you use your chopstick skills to put wooden sushi rolls together as fast as you can.

Designed for ages 6 to 99 and priced at $35.95, this game is available at the Museum Store, 415 Couch Dr., Oklahoma City.

278-8233, www.okcmoa.com.

Skeletons: Museum of Osteology

Give your teen something truly unique this holiday: Pyro Pet Candles. As these shaped candles slowly burn, they reveal the inner skeletons of reindeer, owls, cats and even gummy bears. Find this and other unique and educational items at the museum’s gift shop, 10301 S. Sunnylane Rd. in Oklahoma City. 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Scissortail Gifts at Myriad Gardens

Tree of Life Bamboo Cutting Board's unique design and size makes for a great statement piece or serving tray. Two sizes available.

Visit the new Oklahoma-centric store within Myriad Gardens 301 W. Reno Ave., Oklahoma City.

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Unpluggits Playstudio

Green Bambino

As Oklahoma City’s #1 natural parenting resource, Green Bambino provides many “green” toys that spark children’s imaginations. Young children will love the new organic toys from Apple Park—and parents will love that they are safe and machine washable. Find these and other gifts at 5120 N. Shartel Ave. in Oklahoma City.

848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

Skate Galaxy OKC

Once Upon A Child

This second-hand shop carries the latest in new and gently-used brand name clothes, toys, books and furniture. Visit them at 13801 N. Pennsylvania, Ste. G. in Oklahoma City. 286-3114, www.onceuponachildokcnorth.com.

University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball

The Oklahoma Women’s Basketball team hosts seven non-conference games in the Lloyd Noble Center throughout November and December! For $5 tickets, visit soonersports.com/promocode and enter FAMILY.

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What do you give Grandpa who already has everything?

How about a unique tile, coffee mug or plate painted especially for him.

Unpluggits has a wide selection of paint-your-ownpottery items, most for less than $20. While you paint the details, your kids can enjoy easel painting and our indoor playground for only $8 admission. Visit 575 Enterprise Dr. in Edmond to create your gift. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com.

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This season, give the gift of roller skating!

Gift certificates for admission and skate purchases are available to meet all gift giving needs.

Skates in stock start at $99; child and adult sizes available. 5800 N.W. 36th St. in Oklahoma City. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com

Sam Noble Museum

Jump into the past and discover a world of dinosaurs when you excavate your own dinosaur skull with a digging tool and brush, just like real paleontologists! Unearth your treasure and display it for all the world to see.

Find this kit (priced at $15.95) and other great gift ideas at the gift shop within Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman.

325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu.

S UN DAY N OV EM B E R 13 T H 12 - 5 PM Join us for multiple art-making activities, gallery experiences, and more! All ages welcome. No advance registration required.

FEATUR ING : F REE ADMISSIO N including the exhibition: Sacred Words: The Saint John’s Bible and the Art of Illumination FAMILY F ILM: THE SE CRET OF KELLS HANDS-ON AR T-MAK ING ACTIVIT IES SKETC HI NG IN T HE GALLERIES FAMILY GALLERY EXPERIENCE S PH OTOS with Mr. Cherry Limeade and Mr. Coney AND MORE!

November

Sun

6

great for teens

date night idea

fitness event

worth the drive

1

Tue

7

8

National Veterans Day Run at Stars & Stripes Park at 3 p.m.

FREE First Mondays for Tuesday Night Classics at Kids at Sam Noble Museum Harkins Theatre at 7 p.m. from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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14

15

20

21

22

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

perfect for preschoolers

Mon

FREE Thanksgiving Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center from noon – 5 p.m.

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FREE Red Earth Treefest at the Red Earth Art Center from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at Civic Center Music Hall at 7:30 p.m.

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The Oklahoma Nutcracker & Sand Plum Fairy Tea Party in Norman from 1 – 5 p.m.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Chesapeake Energy Arena at 3:30 & 7:30 p.m.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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

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FREE Kid's Karaoke Night at Othello’s from 6 – 8 p.m.

2

Wed Thu

Oklahoma Kids Count Conference at UCO (Nov. 2 & 3)

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FREE Wide-Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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3

Fri

4

FREE Night at the FREE Nature Tales at Martin Park Nature Center at Museum at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at 6 p.m.

10 a.m.

Chemistry Day at Science Museum Oklahoma from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

10

Family Skate Night at Skate Galaxy from 6 – 9 p.m.

11

FREE 45th Infantry Division Museum’s Annual Veterans Day Celebration at 10 a.m.

FREE Apple Pie 101 at Norman Central Library from 2 – 4 p.m. (teens)

FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center from 10 a.m.

– 2 p.m.

Annie at OCCC Visual Performing Arts Center at 8 p.m.

12

FREE Statehood Day Festival at the GaylordPickens Museum from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Skating begins at Devon Ice Rink — Mistletoe Market (Nov. 10 – 12) —

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FREE Reading Walk the Lights- Holiday FREE Tree Lighting Wednesdays Story Time Lights Spectacular in Ceremony in Stockyard at Myriad Gardens at 10 a.m. Midwest City from 6 – 8 p.m. City at Main Street at 6:30 p.m.

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5

Sat

24

Happy

Thanksgiving

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FREE Lights on Broadway Holiday Open House from 4 – 8 p.m.

Neverland Dance at The MAC at Mitch Park from 6 – 8 p.m. All abilities welcome.

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FREE Bricktown Tree Lighting Festival from 5 – 7 p.m.

Deluxe Winter Market from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

A Territorial Christmas Celebration all weekend

30 Lyric's A Christmas Carol at Civic Center Music Hall at 7:30 p.m.

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

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events this

november

NOV 2 • WEDNESDAY

NOV 3

University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball vs Midwestern State University at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 Jenkins Ave, Norman). Prices vary.

7pm. Also held: 11/7 vs Oklahoma City, 11/13 vs Southern Illinois, 11/16 vs Arkansas-Little Rock; 11/23 vs South Dakota State, 11/27 vs Colorado State; 12/4 vs Oral Roberts. 325-4666, www.soonersports.com

OneVoice Luncheon, fundraiser for Oklahoma Women's Coalition, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church (222 NW 15th St) features Kris Steele, former Speaker of the House and Executive Director of TEEM as well as leader of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform, and Ali Dodd, advocate of Paid Family Leave. Preregister.

FREE, donations requested. 11:30-1pm. 286-0356, www.okwc.org

NOV 2 & 3 Oklahoma Kids Count Conference at the Nigh Center at the University of Central Oklahoma (100 N University Dr, Edmond) features expert presentations, keynote speakers and panels focusing on race equity, foster care, early childhood, high-risk families, mental health & substance abuse. $119 & up. 8am-4:30pm.

236-0356, www.oica.org/conference/

NOV 4 • FRIDAY Chemistry Day at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd) features hands-on experiments and individual & team chemistry competitions.

All ages are welcome. FREE with admission. 9am2pm. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District (NW 30th & 27th St, Walker & Hudson

Ave) features local artists, special themed exhibits, refreshments, live music and food trucks. 6 – 10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com FREE Night at the Museum at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman) features crafts, rope-twirling and historic re-enactors celebrating the Picturing Indian Territory exhibit.

6pm. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma/ Child Abuse Prevention Zumbathon at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene (6879 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany) features a fun group Zumba session that will also raise awareness about child abuse and neglect prevention. All participants are encouraged to bring a package of diapers or wipes, a new toy or book to donate. Benefits Parent Promise, Oklahoma County CASA, Skyline Urban Ministries, and Oklahoma Family Network. 7-9pm. 232-2500, www.facebook.com/ events/1675090396141956/

TWO STRONG ORGANIZATIONS COMING TOGETHER TO STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITY

BECOMING STRONGER TOGETHER INTEGRIS Pacer Fitness Center has joined the YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY and is now our 14th metro location, the YMCA HEALTHY LIVING CENTER-INTEGRIS. In celebration of this new partnership, we’re waiving our joining fee and first month’s dues at all 14 of our locations!

• Join from 11/14-11/30 and pay no joining fee • Get your first month’s dues free • Make no payment until January

DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY! Visit YMCAOKC.ORG to find a location near you.

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NOVEMBER 2016

Now available The DOs and DON'T of Baby Proofing at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel Ave). Learn how to address the most serious hazards inside the home, about the best baby proofing products on the market and how to install them properly. $10. 11am-noon. 254-6666, www.familyfriendlyhomes.net

NOV 4 & 5 Cleveland County Craft Show at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson, Norman) features a wide variety of hand-crafted and market items from various vendors around the region. Free admission. Friday, 4-8pm; Saturday, 9am-4pm. Also held: Nov. 25-26. www.clevelandcountyfair.org St. Elijah Food Festival & Bake Sale at St. Elijah Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church (15000 N May Ave) features homemade Mediterranean dishes and delicacies made by the parishioners of St. Elijah and tours of the historical church. Free to attend.

10am-8pm. 755-7804, www.facebook.com/ StElijahAnnualFoodFestival Fall Craft Show at Southgate Baptist Church (740 SW 4th St) features over 50 vendors of home decor, crafts, jewelry, kettle corn, baked goods and more. Free to attend. 1-8pm. 794-6646, www.facebook.com/Southgatecraftshow Annie at the Oklahoma City Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center (7777 South May Ave) features the classic musical with unforgettable songs such as “It's a Hard Knock Life” “Easy Street,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” plus the eternal anthem of optimism, “Tomorrow.” $45-$75. 8pm. 682-7579, www.occc.edu/pas

NOV 4-6 Fall Festival Arts & Crafts Show at the Payne County Fairgrounds (4518 Expo Cr East, Stillwater) features more than 150 vendors from Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas and Arkansas. Free to attend. Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday, 9am- 6pm; Sunday, 11am- 5pm. 747-7206, www.facebook. com/Stillwater-Fall-Festival-150700538302349/ FREE Oklahoma Artists Invitational Benefit at North Park Mall (12100 N May Ave) features the works of 26 artists from Oklahoma City and surrounding area, live music, refreshments and seminars on heart health and stroke prevention and treatments. Friday, 4-8pm; Saturday, 11am-7pm; Sunday, 11am-4pm. 918-231-9090, www.pollysharp.fineartstudioonline.com

NOV 4-13 Oklahoma Festival Ballet at the University of Oklahoma Elsie C Brackett Theatre (563 Elm Ave, Norman) features a program of world-renowned ballets inspired by the legendary Ballets Russes, including: Stravinsky’s masterpiece, The Firebird; Pas de Quatre and Le Spectre de la Rose. $10-$40. Friday & Saturday, 8-10pm; Sunday, 3pm. Also held: Nov. 10, 11 & 13.

325-4101, http://theatre.ou.edu

NOV 5 • SATURDAY FREE Fishing Day at OKC Lakes & Ponds (various locations). No city permit required, however a State license is for anyone 16 and older.

297-1426, www.okc.gov Walk for Wishes at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St) features a walk benefiting the Make a Wish Foundation. Registration is FREE, fundraising encouraged. 8:30am. www.wish.org FREE Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at Dale Roberston Center (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) features over 45 different booths from across the state selling candles, wood crafts, needle work, home décor and an Indian Taco & bake sale, benefiting Friends of the Park. Free to attend.

9am-4pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov Central DASH 5K & Market and Craft Fair at Yukon Middle School Track (801 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon) features a 5K and one-mile fun run as well as local vendors and crafters, face painting, a moon bounce and carnival games. Benefits Central Elementary. $5-$25; craft fair, FREE to attend. 9am-1pm. 354-2501, www.centraldash.com/ FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation. Also held: Nov. 19. 528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com FREE Saturdays for Kids: Native Expressions at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St). Kids ages 4 - 12 can make their own construction paper friendship blanket and learn about people and traditions in the American West. Families can also explore the museum's galleries to find examples of these Native traditions. Preregister. 10am-noon.

478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Craft Bazaar at New Hope United Methodist Church (11600 N Council Rd) features designer jewelry, candy, wood carvings, handmade crafts and more. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. 721-5015, www.newhopeokc.org FREE National Weather Festival at National Weather Center (120 David L. Boren Blvd, Norman) features hourly weather balloon launches with local TV meteorologists, emergency response vehicle and equipment displays, weather-themed superheroes "The Weather Friends" and other weather-related information and products. 10am-2pm.

325-3095, nwf.nwc.ou.edu FREE Multi-Tribal Day at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Dr, Sulphur) features language demonstrations, native hymns, social stickball games and cultural demonstrations from the Chickasaw and other Native tribes. 10am-5pm. www.chickasawculturalcenter.com Tree Craft Class at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St). Create original art with leaves and twigs collected on a trek through the Margaret Annis Boys Arboretum. Preregister.

All ages welcome. $5. 10:30-noon. 297-1392, ww.okc.gov/active

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NOVEMBER 2016

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events this

november

First Saturday Hands-on History at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features a variety of activities throughout the museum including crafts, coloring, hands-on carts and educational trunks about American Indian Heritage. FREE with admission. 1-4pm. 521-2491, www.okhistory.org Oklahoma Wine Walk in Brookhaven Village (36th Ave & Robinson St, Norman) features tasting selections from Oklahoma wineries and craft breweries, live music and shopping. $25 in advance, $30 day of. 1-6pm. 232-6552, www.oktourism.com/winewalk OK Ale Trail at The Patriarch (9 E Edwards, Edmond) features a 3-lap one-mile course through downtown Edmond. Before each one-mile lap, lager joggers receive a complimentary craft beer from local breweries: Coop Ale Works, Anthem Brewing, and Roughtail Brewing. Activities also include food trucks and live music. All ages are welcome to run. Lager joggers must be 21 or older.

Benefits the Edmond Fine Arts Institute. $40. 3pm.

340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com Geocaching at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Follow clues throughout Martin Park to hunt for hidden treasure. Preregister. Best suited for ages 6 & up. $5. 3-4pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/active Bomber Band Blitz at the Joe Barnes Regional Park (8700 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features at 5K and 2K fun run certified by USA Track and Field. Benefits Midwest City band students.

Strollers welcome. $20-$30; kids (under 5), FREE with paid registration. 3-6pm. https://runsignup. com/Race/OK/MidwestCity/BomberBandBlitz Oklahoma Hip Hop Festival at The Criterion (500 E Sheridan Ave) features graffiti artists, DJs, MCs, Bboys and Bgirls, producers, rap battles and poetry. $15-$50. See website for complete schedule of events. www.oklahomahiphopfestival.com Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave). Prices vary. 5pm. Also held: 11/7 vs Miami, 11/9 Toronto, 11/11 vs Los Angeles, 11/13 vs Orlando, 11/16 vs Houston, 11/18 vs Brooklyn, 11/20 vs Indiana, 11/26 vs Detroit, 11/30 vs Washington, 12/4 vs New Orleans.

602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com

NOV 5 & 6 Repticon Oklahoma City Reptile & Exotic Animal Expo at State Fair Park (3100 General Pershing Blvd) features reptile pet vendors offering supplies, feeders, cages and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and raffles.

Adults, $10; kids (5-12), $5; kids (Under 5), FREE.

Saturday, 10am- 5pm; Sunday: 10am-4pm.

863-268-4273, www.repticon.com

NOV 5-9 FREE Edgar Cruz Latin Concert Series at the Metropolitan Library System (various locations) features the local and world renowned classical guitarist as he plays songs influenced by his Latin roots. See website for a complete schedule. www.metrolibrary.org

NOV 6 • SUNDAY National Veterans Day Run at Wiley Post Park (2021 S Robinson Ave) features a 5K, 11K and 1mile family and supporter walk/run. $5 & up. 3pm. www.veteransdayrun.org/register/oklahoma-city FREE Christ, Culture & Coffee Forums at Metropolitan Baptist Church (7201 W Britton Rd) features a discussion on challenging social questions. November’s topic is Jesus and the Poor with John-Mark Hart pastor of Christ Community Church. 6-7pm. 722-2550, www.mbcokc.com

NOV 7 • MONDAY FREE First Mondays for Kids at Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) offers complimentary admission for kids 17 & under. General admission does apply to guests 18 and older. Adults, $8; seniors (65+), $6; kids (17 & under), FREE. 10am5pm. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

NOV 8 TUESDAY FREE Voting Party at the Moore Library (225 S Howard, Moore) features fun crafts, snacks and more to celebrate the results of the kids’ vote in October. This is a come and go event. 4-6pm. 7934347, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Voter’s Night Out at the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City (various locations) features a meal and activities for kids during evening poll hours. $10; $5 for each additional child. 4-7:45pm. www.ymcaokc.org Paint Away: Thanksgiving Turkeys at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond) features a basic social painting class with a Thanksgiving themed art project.

Instructors will provide basic layout to inspire your creativity. All supplies are provided. For ages 6 & up. Preregister. $12. 6-8pm. 329-4630, www.edmondparks.com University of Oklahoma Men’s Basketball vs Washburn University at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 Jenkins Ave, Norman). Prices vary. 7pm.

Also held: 11/13 vs Northwestern State, 11/25 vs Abilene Christian, 11/29 vs Northern Colorado.

325-4666, www.soonersports.com

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NOV 9 • WEDNESDAY Homeschool Day at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) features a day of learning and exploration with hands-on, educational science programs focusing on discovering the natural world. $10. 10am-2:30pm. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu Mistletoe Market Preview Party at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) hosted

by Junior League of Oklahoma City. Enjoy early market shopping, tasting stations, a silent auction and live music. $50-$75. 5-9pm. www. mistletoemarket.org

NOV 10 • THURSDAY FREE Veteran’s Day Concert at Oklahoma City University (2501 N Blackwelder) honors veterans with a special concert. 7:30-9pm. 822-9550

NOV 10-12 Mistletoe Market at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) is a three-day, one-stop holiday shopping extravaganza featuring unique merchandise from more than 100 carefully selected vendors from Oklahoma and across the country. Benefits Junior League of Oklahoma City.

Adults, $10; seniors (65+), $5; kids (12 and under), FREE. Thursday & Friday; 9am-8pm; Saturday; 9am-5pm. www.mistletoemarket.org

NOV 11 • FRIDAY FREE Veterans Day Celebration at the 45th Infantry Division Museum (2145 NE 36th St) commences with a loud salute provided by a World War II anti-tank gun followed by a performance by the 145th Army Band, a guest speaker and a beautiful Massing of the Colors. 10am. 424-5313, www.45thdivisionmuseum.com FREE Veterans Day Parade in Midwest City (S.E. 15th St & Century Blvd to Douglass Blvd, Midwest City) features marching bands, military personnel and equipment, Shriners and more.

10am. 455-1818, www.midwestcityok.org FREE 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk in the Norman Arts District (downtown Norman) features a monthly celebration of the arts in Norman. 6-9pm. www.2ndfridaynorman.com Wine Through Time Fundraiser at Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard St, Edmond) features food, wine and beer tastings. Benefits the Edmond Historical Society & Museum. $75. 6:30-9:30pm. 340-0078, www. edmondhistory.org

Oklahoma City LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more on the second Friday of the month. Free to attend.

7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org/live/ Oklahoma State University Women’s Basketball vs Arkansas State University at at Gallagher-Iba Arena (1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater). Prices vary. 11am. Also held: 11/15 vs Tennessee State, 11/17 vs Loyola Marymount, 11/23 vs Northern Iowa, 11/26 vs Rice; 12/3 vs Georgia. 744-5745, www.okstate.com Oklahoma City Blue vs Maine Red Claws at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens). Prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 11/15 vs Salt Lake City, 11/17 vs Erie, 11/29 vs Los Angeles, 12/2 vs Texas. 602-8500, oklahomacity.dleague.nba.com

NOV 12 • SATURDAY Annual Holiday Bazaar at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (308 NW 164th St, Edmond) features vendors, door prizes, food and a bake sale. Benefits the church’s programs and ministries. Free to attend. 9am-4pm. 348-3292, www.holytrinityedmond.org/holiday-bazaar Del City Rainbow Fall Craft Show at the Del City Masonic Lodge (4315 SE 37th St, Del City) features craft and retail vendors as well as food trucks and more. 9am-3pm. Free to attend.

9am-3pm. 414-9816 Harvest Costume Party at Foster Indoor Pool (614 NE 4th St) features an indoor aquatic party with music, water games, goody bags, a costume contest and swimming. Swimming in costume not allowed. All ages welcome. $10. 10am-2pm.

297-1424, www.okc.gov FREE Super Saturdays at U.S. Grant High School (5016 S Penn Ave) features a district-wide professional development workshop for families who support the students in the Oklahoma City Public School district, including a resource fair, educational workshops and student performances.

FREE childcare and lunch for those who register.

10am-2pm. www.okcps.org/SuperSaturdays Handmade for the Holidays Craft Show at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features a variety of vendors offering popular products and handmade crafts. Free to attend. 10am-4pm. www.facebook.com/ mommiessticktogethercraftshows Give Thanks Platter Craft at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond).

Paint a plate to use for your Thanksgiving feast.

Two visits required: one to paint, one to pick up.

Preregister. For ages 2 and up. $20. 10am-noon.

359-4630, www.edmondparks.com

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THE FAMILY THAT EATS TOGETHER

ROCKS TOGETHER $1.99 Kids Meal!

With Purchase of An Adult Entree

All November, 2016 From 4PM - 8PM Lively play area for children, dog-friendly patio and ample free parking!

Rock & Brews Oklahoma City 2737 W Memorial Rd

405.286.1464

events this

november

FREE Statehood Day Festival at the GaylordPickens Museum (1400 Classen Dr) features FREE admission to the museum, a Young Entrepreneurs and Artists (YEA) Market, food trucks, crafts, inflatables and more. 10am-5pm.

523-3231, www.oklahomahof.com

Helping women through life.

Welcoming New Patients, Joyfully delivering at Mercy and Integris Baptist

We are a team of professionals devoted to providing exceptional care to the women of Oklahoma.

Services: Pregnancy care, preventative and problem gynecologic care, infertility, teen care, menopause management, Minimally invasive gyn surgery, preconceptual counseling

The PreTend Friends Show at District House (1755 NW 16th St) features a 40-minute puppet show that introduces kids to the art of live theater with classic tales and silly riddles. $5. 11am. 2423546, www.facebook.com/PreTendFriends FREE Family Make + Take Art Project at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing Blvd) features a family art making inspired by the works of art on view at the museum. Projects are designed to be accessible and fun for visitors of all ages and all levels of art-making experience. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 1-4pm. 951-0000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org Jazzy Jungle Mini Camp at Velocity Dance Center (11122 N Rockwell Ave) features a mini dance camp series for kids ages 3-6. $25; series, $90. 1:30-3pm. 721-8807, www.oklahomacitydancestudio.com America Recycles Day at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) celebrates recycling with craft activities including upcycling a milk jug into a piggy bank or watering can and plastic bottles into backyard birdfeeders.

Preregister. Best suited for ages 6 and up. $5.

3-4pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/active Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th St, Del City) features three professional bluegrass gospel bands playing a 45-minute set each. Adults, $8; Members, $5; kids (12 and under), FREE. 6:309:15pm. 677-7515, www.gobms.org Fall Food Feast: Calling All Kids (and Worms)! at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave).

Celebrate the foods of fall with a food tasting and play a game to learn what leftovers worms will like. The class will end with a fun worm related craft and a worm feeding of the leftovers.

Member,s $5; nonmembers, $7. 10-11am.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 12 & 13 Top: Donald K. Rahhal MD; Devin G. McAdams, MD; Beverly A. Vavricka, MD; Misty Wayman, MD Bottom: David Melendez, MD; Karen Eyler Wilks, MD

Veteran’s Day Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features FREE admission to the exhibit center for active military and veterans and a special discount in the Aaimpa Cafe. Saturday, 10am-

4140 W. Memorial Road, Suite 500 Oklahoma City, OK 73120

(405) 755-7430 www.centerforwomen-okc.com

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5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com

NOV 13 • SUNDAY FREE Family Day at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features hands-on art projects and in-gallery experiences throughout the museum including a calligraphy demonstrations led by an artist from “The Saint John’s Bible.” Come by MetroFamily's booth at the event. Noon-5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com Run for the Fallen Veterans Day 5K at Stars and Stripes Park (3701 S Lake Hefner Dr) features a 5K, one-mile fun run, a toddler dash, inflatables and more. Benefits The Fallen Outdoors. $35-$40. 2pm. 474-5000, calebmpadilla.wixsite.com/runforthefallen

NOV 14 • MONDAY FREE Escape the Library for Teens at the SOKC Library (2201 SW 134th St). Teens will be challenged to puzzle through clues, brain-teasers and logic problems to gain keys to escape from the "locked" library room. The first team to win will get a prize. Preregister. For kids in 6th - 12th grade. 6:30-7pm. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

NOV 15 • TUESDAY Tiny Tuesdays at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a Paint a Mini Pumpkin art-making experience. No registration required. The come & go activities are geared for kids 5 & under with a caregiver. Dress for mess.

FREE with admission. 10am-noon. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd St) features a story and corresponding science activity in various locations throughout the museum. Best suited for kids ages 6 & under. FREE with admission. 10:30-11:30am. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org FREE Turkey Shoot at Oklahoma City Community Centers (various locations). Kids can compete in a basketball free throw contest to win a frozen turkey. Age groups are: 6-8, 9-12, 13-17 & 18+. See website for locations. 4-6pm. www.okc.gov The Gift Goes On holiday bazaar and silent auction benefiting the Karis Adoption Fund at The Cube, Council Road Baptist Church, 7903 NW 30th St., Bethany. $5 suggested donation at door. 6-9pm. www.thegiftgoeson.com/

events this

november

NOV 17 • THURSDAY Turkey T-Shirt Craft at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond). Create a holiday themed t-shirt to wear to your family gettogethers. For ages 2-5. Preregister. $11. 10-11am.

359-4630, www.edmondparks.com Walk the Lights at Holiday Lights Spectacular, Joe B. Barnes Regional Park (SE 15th St & Century Dr, Midwest City). Stroll through the one mile stretch of amazing twinkling lights and animated displays for an upclose look at nearly one million lights. Adults, $5; Kids under 12, FREE. 6-8pm. 739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org FREE Family Game Night at The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a variety of different games like Monopoly, card games, ping pong and more. No registration required. All ages welcome. Kids under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. 7:309:30pm. 793-5090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com

NOV 18 • FRIDAY FREE Tree Lighting Ceremony in Stockyards City (1217 S Agnew) features a special holiday ceremony with entertainment by the Capitol Hill Alumni Choir as well as opening night of the Cowboy in Cahoots Art Show. 5:30-7:30pm.

235-7267, www.stockyardscity.org

NOV 18-20 Neverland at Edmond Fine Arts Institute (27 E Edwards St, Edmond) features a performance of the classic tale by the Children's Junior Theatre Company. $6. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 4 & 7pm; Sunday, 2pm. 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com

NOV 19 • SATURDAY The Santa Market at the Downtown Edmond Community Center (28 E Main St, Edmond) featuring over 100 vendors of decor and fashion, handmade and unique items and direct sales. Families can meet Santa and pose for a FREE photo. Proceeds from the show benefit the Alzheimer's Association of Oklahoma.

Free to attend. 9am-5pm. 314-1033, www.facebook.com/thesantamarket Craft Fair at the Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May Ave) features vendors selling a variety of handcrafted items. Free to attend. 9am-3pm.

378-0420 FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation.

Also held: Oct. 15. 10-11am. 528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com

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FREE Super Saturdays at John Marshall High School (12201 Portland Ave) features a district-wide professional development workshop for families who support the students in the Oklahoma City Public School district, including a resource fair, educational workshops and student performances. FREE childcare and lunch for those who register.

10am-2pm. www.okcps.org/SuperSaturdays FREE International Games Day Celebration at the Norman West Library (300 Norman Center Ct, Norman) features a variety of tabletop games. Bring your own or play from the library’s collection. All ages welcome. 11am-3:30pm. 7012644, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Apple Pie Time at the Bethany Library (3510 N Mueller Ave, Bethany). Kids can practice following directions, measuring ingredients and putting together a delicious pie to take home and bake. Preregister, space is limited. For ages 9 & up. 2-3pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org Orienteering Hike at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn to navigate using only a compass and a map. Preregister. Dress for the weather and close-toed shoes are required.

Best suited for ages 8 & up. $5. 3-4pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov FREE Lights on Broaday Holiday Open House in Automobile Alley (Broadway Avenue between 4th and 10th St) features holiday window displays, children's activities, carriage rides, a chance to meet Santa, an outdoor movie and more. 4-8pm.

235-4789, www.downtownindecember.com Chill Your Cheeks 5K Run at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) features a 5k run that winds through the streets of Yukon and ends amid 4 million twinkling Christmas lights on display in the park. Activities also include train rides, pictures with Santa, refreshments, live Christmas music and games.

Adults, $25; kids, $20. 4:30-8pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov Neverland Dance at the MAC at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond). Dance the night away with Peter Pan and the Lost Boys. Evening includes DJ and buffet. For ages 16 & up, all abilities welcome. $5 plus a canned food item.

6-8pm. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com Thanksgiving Dinner at Ain't Misbehavin Christian Dance Center (351 N Air Depot Ste GG, Midwest City) features a potluck Turkey dinner and a night of dancing. Attendees are encouraged to bring a side dish. $5; kids (12 & under), FREE; $20 max per family. 7-11pm.

822-3825, www.christiancountrydance.com

SODA. SO DAMAGING to your HEALTH. Pentatonix World Tour at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features Grammy Award winning and platinum selling recording artist Pentatonix and special guest Us The Duo. $36.50-$66.50. 8pm. 602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com Learn to Curl at Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Learn the basic rules and etiquette of curling from The Oklahoma Curling Club. They will explain the how’s and why’s of delivering and sweeping a stone. Dress warm and wear rubber soled shoes. All other equipment will be provided. Members, $20; nonmembers, $25. 9-10:30am. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 19 & 20 FREE Thanksgiving Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Dr, Sulphur) features a children’s ornament workshop, stomp dancing, activities in the living village and more. Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com

Soda can contain the same amount of sugar as more than 3 donuts!

1 12-oz CAN =

10 PACKETS

OF SUGAR

FREE A-OK Alpaca Blast Off at Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie) features an alpaca halter and fleece show, educational exhibits, alpaca and alpaca-related goods and services, Made in Oklahoma vendors and more. Families can also enjoy fun activities, A Pet a Paca & Pics with a Paca experience and a Farm Life Photo Exhibit. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 9am-1pm.

282-7433, www.alpacablastoff.com

NOV 20 • SUNDAY FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman). Explore art in the museum’s special exhibitions and enjoy a variety of hands-on art activities for the entire family as you travel back in time to the century before Oklahoma statehood through the special exhibition Picturing Indian Territory. 1-4pm.

325-3270, www.ou.edu/fjjma

NOV 21 • MONDAY Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features favorite characters from the classic TV special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life on stage. $43-$63. 7:30pm. www.rudolphthemusical.com

NOV 22 • TUESDAY FREE Apple Pie Time at the Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave, Midwest City).

Kids can practice following directions, measuring ingredients and putting together a delicious pie to take home and bake. Preregister, space is limited. For ages 5 - 12. 4:30-6pm.

732-4828, www.metrolibrary.org METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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SO BE DONE WITH SODA. CHOOSE HEALTHY, INSTEAD. HYDRATING

events this

november

NOV 23 • WEDNESDAY FREE Apple Pie 101 at Norman Central Library (225 N Webster Ave, Norman) features a pie making class for kids in grades 6th-12th.

Preregister. All ingredients provided. 2-4pm. 7012620, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Thanksgiving Crafts at the Norman West Library (300 Norman Center Ct, Norman) features a come and go craft time. 3-5pm.

701-2644, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Carrie Underwood: The Storyteller Tour at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features special guests Easton Corbin and The Swon Bothers. $45.50 - US $75.50. 7pm. 602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com

NOV 24 • THURSDAY Edmond Turkey Trot at the Edmond Downtown Community Center (28 E Main St, Edmond) features a scenic 5K, one-mile Family Wobble and

a kids’ zone with inflatables, balloons and face painting. Participants are encouraged to dress up; best costume will receive a prize. Strollers and dogs on leashes are welcome. Preregister. Benefits Turning Point Ministries. $10-$26. 8am. 590-8665, www.edmondturkeytrot.com OKC Turkey Tracks 5K in Downtown Oklahoma City (5th & Harvey) features a one-mile fun run and a 5K. Strollers and dogs on leashes are welcome. Runners are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Benefits Toys for Tots. $20-$35. www.okcturkeytracks.com FREE Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner at the Nigh University Center (100 N University Dr, Edmond) provides food and fellowship. The meal is free and open to the public. 11am-3pm. edmondthanksgivingdinner@ gmail.com Turkey Day 5K at Norman High School (911 W Main St, Norman) features a 5K and

one-mile fun run benefiting Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity. $25. 9:30am. 793-0893, www.turkeyday5krun.com

NOV 24-27 Chris Neal’s “Future Stars” Calf Roping at Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie) features a variety of youth roping competitions and a Ladies Breakaway and All-Girl Tie-down. Prices vary. See website for a schedule of events. 2827433, www.risingstarscalfroping.com

NOV 24-DEC 3 NRHA Futurity at State Fair Park (333 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features more than 700 threeyear-old horses competing for the title of NRHA Futurity Champion, horse sales, the Invitational Freestyle reining, a horsemanship clinic with an opportunity to ride a reining horse and a trade show featuring everything from western clothing and home decor to gifts and equine supplies. $10$14. 8am-6pm. www.nrhafuturity.com

Opening Nov. 11 See downtownindecember.com for information.

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NOV 25 • FRIDAY

NOV 27 • SUNDAY

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker at Rose State College Hudiburg Chevrolet Center (6420 SE 15th St, Midwest City) features the artistry of world-class Russian dancers, playful puppets and the unmatched splendor of handcrafted sets and costumes. $28 & up. 7pm.

297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com

The Oklahoma Nutcracker & Sand Plum Fairy Tea Party at the Nancy O'Brian Center for the Performing Arts (131 S Flood, Norman) features a classical holiday ballet performance of the classic tale with an Oklahoma twist and a tea party before the show. Tea party, $19; ballet, $15-$25. Tea party, 1pm; ballet, 3pm. 364-1818, www.normanballetcompany.com

FREE Bricktown Tree Lighting Festival at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features FREE photos with Santa, live music, snacks, face painting and the tree lighting

by Mayor Mick Cornett. 5-7pm. 235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com

NOV 25 & 26 Cleveland County Craft Show at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson, Norman) features a wide variety of handcrafted and market items. Free to attend. 9am-4pm. www.clevelandcountyfair.org

NOV 25-27 Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown (10th & Hudson) features rotating, local vendors with a variety of gifts for sale and the Bishop John Carroll School Christmas Tree Lot. ThursdaySaturday, 10am–9pm; Sunday, 10am–6pm.

Also held: Dec. 1-4, 8-11, 15-18 & 22. www.okcpopups.com

Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features The Ghost of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO Tour. $42.50-$74. 3:30 & 7:30pm. 602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com Merry & Bright: FREE Sunday Evenings in the Crystal Bridge Conservatory (301 W Reno Ave). Tour the charming Christmas light displays and beautiful plant exhibits designed especially for the holiday season. 6-9pm. Also held: Dec. 4, 11, & 18. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 28 • MONDAY FREE Community Tree Lighting Ceremony in Midwest City (Midwest Blvd & Reno Ave, Midwest City) features a Christmas carols sing-along, dance performances, a visit from Santa and refreshments as well as the tree lighting ceremony.

7pm. 739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org

NOV 29 • TUESDAY

Winter Shoppes at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a selection of boutique-style vendors in a festive holiday atmosphere complete with lights, ice skating and more. 11am-6pm.

Also held: Dec. 2-4, 9-10 & 16-18. 218-0300, www.wintershoppes.com

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd St) features a story and corresponding science activity in various locations throughout the museum. Best suited for kids 6 & under. FREE with admission. 10:3011:30am. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

Christmas Unwrapped in Bristow (1 Burlington Northern Railroad, Bristow) features an interactive tram ride that takes an up-close, behind the scenes look at the North Pole Christmas preparations and a mysterious adventure to help save Christmas. Families will have the opportunity to take a photo with a live reindeer and Santa's sleigh. $25. See website for hours of operation. Also held: Dec. 2-4, 9-11, 1618 & 23. 918-367-5151, www.bristowchamber.com

FREE Kids’ Karaoke Night at Othello’s (434 Buchanan Ave, Norman). Kids can take the stage on the last Tuesday of every month at Othello's for Kids’ Karaoke. There is no cost to perform and kids of all ages are welcome. 6-8pm. 701-4900

NOV 26 • SATURDAY Knot Tying Class at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn step-bystep instructions on how to tie common knots.

Participants will receive their own length of cord and metal eyelet to take home and practice.

Preregister. Best suited for ages 6 & up. $5.

3-4pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/active

NOV 26 & 27 Deluxe Winter Market at Leadership Square (211 N Robinson Ave) features unique makers, artists, vendors and other creatives as well as kids’ activities including a FREE photo booth and an Elf Market where kids can shop for gifts at kidsized prices. Proceeds of the Elf Market benefit the Mental Health Association of Oklahoma.

11am-5pm. www.deluxeok.net

DEC 1 • THURSDAY Territorial Christmas at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features hay rides, holiday crafts, Harn House tours and a chance to meet Santa. $5 in advance; $7 at the door. 6-8pm. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com FREE Shawnee Christmas Parade in Downtown Shawnee (Main St, Shawnee) features Santa as he leads his team of reindeer ushered in by lively dancers and community floats. If inclement weather, parade will be held Dec. 8.

7pm. www.seffshawnee.org

DEC 1-3 OKC Philharmonic Christmas Show at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features Kelli O'Hara, Santa and his tap-dancing kick line, Maestro Levine and the entire Philharmonic as they celebration with fresh interpretations of holiday favorites through music, song and dance. $19 & up. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2 & 8 pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org

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events this

november

DEC 2 • FRIDAY FREE Yukon Mayor’s Christmas Party for Kids at the Dale Robertson Center (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) features donuts, crafts, games, an essay contest and more. 9:30am-noon.

350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov FREE Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony at Andrews Park (201 W Daws St, Norman) features a festive evening celebration with FREE hot chocolate & cookies, moon bounces, musical performances and a chance to meet Santa. Bring your own camera for a FREE photo with Santa. 5:30-7pm. 366-5470, www.normanfun.com FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District (NW 30th & 27th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features local artists, special themed exhibits, refreshments, live music and food trucks.

6-10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com Jeff Dunham at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features the Perfectly Unbalanced Tour and his cast of hilarious characters. $48.50.

8pm. 602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com UCO WinterGlow at the Nigh University Center (100 N University Dr, Edmond) features the Ceremonial Lighting of the Old North as well as a winter carnival with a craft area, trackless train rides and inflatables. Attendees have the opportunity to meet Santa. Bring a toy to donate and receive a FREE photo with Santa. 6-9pm.

974-2363, www.uco.edu/winterglow

DEC 2-17 Jane Austen’s Christmas Cracker at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a magical journey through time, back to the elegance and society of a Regency Christmas ball, complete with sweets, treats, caroling and, best of all, an entire cast of characters from Jane Austen's world. Regency costumes encouraged.

Recommended for ages 7 & up. $18-$28.

Thursday, Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm.

297-2264, www.reduxiontheatre.com

DEC 3 • SATURDAY Little Willie’s Triple Dog Dare at Leadership Square (211 N Robinson Ave).

Racers climb 138 floors in three buildings combined. Single and relay options available.

Benefits Homeless Alliance & SaBaR Youth Triathlon. $45 & up. Races being at 8am. www.littlewilliestripledogdare.com

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Christmas at the Lodge Market at Mustang Masonic Lodge (406 E State Hwy 152, Mustang) features handcrafted, vintage and re-purposed treasures. Shoppers are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for a child in need in Canadian County. Kids can meet Santa & Mrs. Claus and pose for pictures. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. www.facebook.com/ChristmasAtTheLodge Faerie Gingerbread House Decorating Class at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St). Learn how to make a twist on the classic gingerbread house. Supplies provided. Preregister, space is limited. All ages welcome. $35 per house. 9amnoon. 297-1392, www.okc.gov/active FREE OKC Hot Wheels Association Show at The Crown Center (13300 S Western Ave) features 40 plus tables of collectables for sale or trade, raffles, pizza and more. 9am. www.greaterokchotwheels.com Deck the Halls Celebration at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features the Santas of the World Tour, giving visitors an opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus from a variety of cultures. Visitors can also craft ornaments to take home and Christmas cards to send to soldiers unable to come home for the holidays. FREE with admission. 10am-noon.

522-0765, www.okhistory.org FREE Saturdays with Santa at Devon Energy (333 W Sheridan Ave) features a variety of holiday crafts, live music, a train ride (weather permitting) and a chance to meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and other holiday characters. Visits with Santa are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 10am-4pm. Also held: Dec. 10 & 17. www. saturdayswithsanta.com FREE Saturdays for Kids – Holidays at the Museum at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features a variety of holiday family fun throughout the museum including Western-inspired ornament crafts, scavenger hunt, face painting and a chance to meet Santa and Western historical figures. Designed for children ages 4-12. Preregister. 10am-noon. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org FREE Cowboy Christmas at Stockyard City (1305 S Agnew Ave) features a stampede of longhorn steers and floats, holiday music, candy for children, free carriage rides, Guthrie Gunfighters street show and more. Kids can meet Santa at the Centennial Rodeo Opry from 11am1pm, pose for pictures and receive a gift. 10am1pm. 235-7267, www.stockyardscity.org

FREE Stories from World War II at the Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features living history performer, Sarah Dumas, as she reenacts the story of a World War II nurse. Learn about training, traveling and women's lives during World War II. 2-3pm. 7324828, www.metrolibrary.org WinterFest Games at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features fun games including Sleigh Relay, Festive Lights Tangle and the Winter Dress Relay. Preregister. Best suited for ages 6 & up. 2-4pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/ active FREE Edmond Mayor’s Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights in Downtown Edmond (various locations) features a tree lighting ceremony followed by a lighted parade through downtown.

6pm. 216-7729, www.edmondelectric.com

DEC 3 & 4 Oklahoma City Train Show at State Fair Park Cox Pavilion (3212 Wichita Walk) features operating model train displays, workshops and clinics, vendors, exhibitors and manufacturers from more than a dozen states. Adults, $12; kids (12 & under), FREE. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-4pm. 842-4846, www.okctrainshow.com

DEC 4 Canterbury Christmas Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) is an annual holiday performance featuring a holiday carol sing-a-long. Following the concert, attendees can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus by the atrium tree. $15-$60. 7pm. 232-7464, www.canterburyokc.com

Find all of our holiday fun guides at metrofamilymagazine.com/ holiday

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Play • Learn • Thrive

Services Include:

Occupational Therapy and SpeechLanguage Therapy

events this

november ONGOING EVENTS

THROUGH NOV 5 Zombie Hunt at Battle Park (14805 W Industrial Rd, Guthrie) Take a ride through a haunted paintball park and shoot as many zombies as you can with glow-in-the-dark paintballs from the safety of a double-decker Battle Wagon. Zombies are unarmed and can’t shoot back. Ticket price includes all equipment needed and paintballs.

All ages welcome. Fridays & Saturdays, 7:3010:45pm. 433-2223, www.battleparkok.com

THROUGH DEC 16 FREE Edmond People, Edmond Politics at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard St, Edmond) showcases a wide variety of political memorabilia and historic photographs that illustrate the many ways Edmondites have participated in local, state and national politics.

Tuesday- Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm.

340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org

We Specialize in Working with Children of All Ages and Abilities In-network providers for the following insurance companies: BC/BS Tricare United Healthcare Health Choice Soonercare Oklahoma Health Network

THROUGH DEC 23 The Polar Express at the Eastern Flyer Railroad Station (401 W 9th St, Stillwater) offers families a magical holiday train experience that recreates the sights and sounds of the original story, complete with cocoa and cookies, a visit from Santa and a train full of excited kids in their pajamas. $22-$82. Train departs 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm on select dates. 855-487-1430, www.easternflyerpolarexpressride.com

THROUGH DEC 24 PAMBE Ghana Global Market (6516 N Ollie) is a seasonal fair trade shop offering unique gifts, including a wide selection of folk art from around the world and more. All proceeds benefit PAMBE Ghana's La'Angum Learning Center in northern Ghana. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-6pm; Thursdays, noon-7pm. 249-2314, www.pambeghana.org

THROUGH DEC 27

(405) 840-1686

www.SensationalKidsOKC.com

Two locations to serve you 14715 Bristol Park Blvd., Edmond 5701 SE 74th St., OKC

FREE Melvin Edwards at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing Blvd) features the work of a pioneer in the history of contemporary African-American art and sculpture, including some new pieces that use objects found at Oklahoma scrap yards. MondayThursday, 9am-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 9am-5pm.

951-0000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org

THROUGH DEC 30 Picturing Indian Territory, 1819-1907 at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman) explores Oklahoma history through art and reveals what outsiders to Oklahoma either

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witnessed in person, heard about through local stories or decided was interesting or important enough to report back to the rest of the nation during the transition from Indian Territory to Oklahoma Territory to Oklahoma statehood.

FREE admission. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, until 9pm; Sunday, 1-5pm. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma

THROUGH JAN 2 When the Earth Shakes at Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) is a special exhibit sponsored

by Love's. Adults, $8; seniors, $6; children 4-17, $5. Kids under 3 are free. Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sunday 1-5pm. 325-4712, www. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

THROUGH JAN 8 Da Vinci: The Genius at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) is an interactive experience that immerses guests in da Vinci’s timeless brilliance through full-scale interpretations of the mastermind’s inventions and unparalleled studies of his iconic art. Visitors will be able to push, pull, crank and interact with many of these exhibits for a hands-on understanding of the scientific principles behind them. Tickets in addition to regular museum admission are required. Adults, $9.95; kids (12 & under), $5.95. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok. org Sacred Words: The Saint John’s Bible and the Art of Illumination at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) includes seventy selected folios from The Saint John’s Bible as well as other historical illuminated manuscripts, including a Book of Hours, Quran pages and Torah scrolls. Free with admission. TuesdaySaturday 10am-5pm; Thursday, until 9pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

THROUGH JAN 13 FREE Red Earth Treefest at the Red Earth Art Center (6 Santa Fe Plaza) features Christmas trees adorned with handmade ornaments that showcase the diverse Native cultures in Oklahoma. Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Dec. 3,10 & 17, 10am-3pm. 427-5228, www.redearth.org

THROUGH JAN 16 Mystery of the Mayan Medallion at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) transports you to Palenque, Mexico, where an archaeological team has mysteriously disappeared from a dig site while investigating rumors of a priceless jade medallion. Follow the

clues the team left behind to locate the precious medallion while avoiding the dangers lurking in the ruins. Adults, $8; seniors, $6; children 4-17, $5. Kids under 3 are free. Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum. ou.edu

THROUGH JAN 31 The Banjo World of Steve Martin at the American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan Ave) features memorabilia, rare photos and an exclusive interview where Martin discusses his love for America’s instrument. Free with admission. Tuesday – Saturday, 11am6pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 604-2793, www. americanbanjomuseum.com

NOV 11 - JAN 29 Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Enjoy another winter of outdoor ice skating. $12, $8 without skates; members, $7. MondayThursday 3-9pm; Friday 3-11pm; Saturday 11a –11pm; Sunday 11am–7pm. See website for extended hours of operation and special events.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 18 - JAN 8 Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond). Families can enjoy ice skating, holiday music and food concessions. $10 with skate rental, $7 without, kids (under 5), $5. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm;

Friday, 3-10pm; Saturday & Sunday, noon-10pm; Nov. 23-25, noon - 10 p.m. 274-1638, www. edmondoutdooricerink.com

NOV 25 - DEC 24 North Pole Adventure at Plaza Mayor (7000 Plaza Mayor Blvd) is a one-of-a-kind interactive Christmas attraction featuring a life-sized replica of the North Pole including Santa’s post office, Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, a reindeer barn and more.

Each building offers hands-on activities including writing letters to Santa, making toys and more.

Adults, $6; kids, $14. Monday-Friday, 5:308:30pm; Saturday, 10am-8:30pm; Sunday, noon8pm. 605-6123, www.northpoleadventure.org A Territorial Christmas Celebration in Downtown Guthrie (various locations) features Victorian Christmas celebrations, historic home tours, theater performances of A Territorial Christmas Carol and a lighted parade with Santa as the parade marshal. Most activities are FREE. See website for a complete schedule of events.

412-4132, www.guthriesterritorialchristmas.com

NOV 30 - DEC 24 A Christmas Carol at Lyric Theatre (1727 NW 16th St). Take a magical journey with Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. $31 & up. See website for a full schedule of performances. 524-9312, www. lyrictheatreokc.com

Holiday Light Displays

around the OKC metro and beyond Details at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/light-festivals.

NOV 18 - DEC 30

NOV 24 - JAN 3

FREE Midwest City Holiday Lights Spectacular at Joe B Barnes Regional Park (8700 E. Reno Ave). Sunday-Thursday, 6-10pm; Friday & Saturday, 6-11pm through Dec. 30.

FREE Downs Family Christmas Lights (2900 72nd Ave SE, Norman). Bring a canned good or monetary donation to benefit the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Open seven days a week from 6-10pm through Jan. 2.

NOV 19 - DEC 30 FREE Automobile Alley Lights on Broadway Ave (NW 4th to 10th St. on Broadway Ave). Open dusk to dawn, through Jan. 1.

NOV 19 - DEC 30 FREE Christmas in the Park at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon). Open seven days a week from 6-10pm through Dec 31.

NOV 22 - DEC 31 FREE Festival of Light at Shannon Springs Park (2400 S 9th St, Chickasha). Sunday-Thursday, 6 -10pm, Friday-Saturday, 6 -11pm through Dec. 31.

NOV 25 - JAN 1 FREE Bricktown Canal Lights Display (Mickey Mantle Dr & Reno Ave). Open daily at dusk through Jan. 1. Enjoy FREE water taxi rides certain nights of the week.

FREE Holiday Lights Display on Film Row (Sheridan Ave). Open daily at dusk through Jan. 1.

NOV 26 - DEC 31 FREE Celebration of Lights at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur). Open 6-9pm nightly through Dec. 31.

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Oklahoma Association of Youth Services foster care is working to improve the quality of life for all of Oklahoma’s foster children!

If not YOU... then WHO? You may not be called to Foster a child; however, we are all called to care for God’s children.

Foster-Sponsor-VolunteerDonate-Advocate-Educate Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:2 Two OKC Metro Youth Services Agencies are now providing foster services: Mid-Del Youth and Family Services 405- 733-5437 Tri City Youth and Family Services 405-390-8131

events this

november WEEKLY EVENTS

FREE INTEGRIS Fit Club at Crossings Community Center (10255 N Penn Ave) features a family-friendly fitness class focused on promoting good nutrition, mental health, healthy weight and an active lifestyle.

All fitness levels, families and individuals welcome. Best suited for kids ages 5 & up. Bring a mat. No childcare provided.

Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30pm.

242-5563 FREE Art Moves at various locations in Downtown Oklahoma City offers a free hourlong lunchtime art experience every weekday.

Events run every weekday, noon-1pm (unless otherwise noted), and are free and open to the public. 270-4848, www.artscouncilokc. com/art-moves

FREE Story Time at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel Ave) features readings of favorite books in the Green room.

Participants get 10% off all books during story time. Mondays, 11:30am; Wednesdays, 4pm & Thursdays, 10am. 848-2330, www. green-bambino.com FREE Art Adventures at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman), for ages 3-5. Young artists are invited to experience art through books. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Tuesday Night Classics at Harkins Theatre (150 E Reno) features special presentations of classic films on the big screen every Tuesday. $5. 7pm. 231-4747, www.harkinstheatres.com/TNC

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FREE Picnics on the Great Lawn at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Bring a big blanket, a picnic or a good book and enjoy some offline time. Tuesdays, 5-9pm.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Toddler Story & Craft Time at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) features a different story each week & a related craft time. Free with admission. Wednesdays, 1111:30am. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com FREE Wide Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features free admission, courtesy of The Oklahoma Ford Dealers, every Wednesday through Nov. 16. 10am-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Nature Play Group at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) introduces children ages 2-6 to nature using naturecentered play activities. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. $2. Preregister. $10/month. Wednesdays, 10am.

297-1429, www.okc.gov/active

FREE Western Movie Matinees at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features screenings every Wednesday of a selection of Wrangler Award-winning films including Heartland and Unforgiven. 1pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Early Explorers at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features come-&-go, hands-on science activities for kids ages 6 & under. Wednesdays.

No registration required. Free with admission. 10-11am. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org FREE Reading Wednesdays Story Time at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a nature-themed story time and related craft. Best suited for ages 2-5.

Wednesdays, 10-11am. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Family Night at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St). Families can enjoy admission for up to five people, pizza and drinks using the MetroFamily Family Package (coupon available at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/coupons). $29. Thursdays, 6-9pm.

602-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com FREE Whole Kids Club Story Time at Whole Foods Café (6001 N Western Ave) features story time hosted by a librarian from the Metropolitan Library System as well as crafts and snacks.

Thursdays, 10-11am. 879-3500, www.wholefoodsmarket.com FREE Nature Tales at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) introduces young adventurers to the world of nature using stories and themed, handson activities. Best suited for ages 3 – 7.

Preregister. Thursdays & Saturdays, 10am. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/parks FREE Connie & the Cow Story Time at Chick-fil-a (1210 E 2nd St, Edmond) features a reading time every Thursday as part of the Chick-fil-a Kids Club.

Thursdays, 10-11am. www.cfarestaurant. com/northedmond/home FREE Family Story Time at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond).

Pajamas welcome. Preregister, best suited for families with kids ages 1-5 years old.

Thursdays, 6:30-7:15pm. 341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Children’s Story Time at Full Circle Books (1900 NW Expressway).

Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com FREE Storytime with Mr. Steve at Barnes and Noble (540 Ed Noble Parkway, Norman) features an extremely silly story time and coloring activity. Saturdays, 11am.

579-8800 FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books (1313 E Danforth, Edmond).

Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202.

FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May Ave) features a hands-on craft time for kids ages 3 & up. No reservations necessary. Saturdays, 11am3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com Roller Skating Lesson at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St) offered each Saturday.

Noon-12:45pm. $2 skate rental. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com

Thursday, December 1, 6-8pm

All Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Windsor Lanes (4600 NW 23rd) invites differently-abled individuals and their friends and families to bowl on Saturdays. 1-3pm. Cost to $8.25.

942-5545.

FREE RIVERSPORT Ride in the Boathouse District (725 S Lincoln Blvd) features a free all-inclusive bike ride around the Oklahoma River. Riders can choose to begin at Schlegel’s Bicycyles or at the Chesapeake Boathouse. Saturdays.

Schlegel’s, 8:30am; Boathouse, 8:50am.

552-4040, www.boathousedistrict.org FREE Oklahoma Bicycle Society’s Donut Ride at Will Rogers Park (NW 36th & Portland) features a 14 - 25 mile ride starting at Will Rogers Park Tennis parking lot and rides to Brown's Bakery or Kamps 1910.

Riders can return on the same route or join groups for longer return ride. 9am every Saturday. www.oklahomabicyclesociety.com Drop-in Yoga at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features an instructor-led, reflective practice in the museum’s galleries. All skill levels welcome.

Members, $8; nonmembers, $12. Thursdays, 5:45-6:45pm; Saturdays, 11am-noon. 2363100, www.okcmoa.com Drop-in Art at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a guest artist who leads families as they create works of art inspired by the museum’s collection and exhibits. All ages welcome, no registration required. FREE with admission. Saturdays, 1-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

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NEW at this year’s event: Local craft vendors selling holiday decor, gifts & more

Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. www.harnhomestead.com/events/ 1721 N. Lincoln Boulevard, OKC

NOVEMBER 2016

(405)235-4058 www.harnhomestead.com

exploring oklahoma with children

Christmas Experiences Worth the Drive

BY LINDSAY CUOMO PHOTOS PROVIDED

CASTLE CHRISTMAS IN MUSKOGEE

C

hristmas is still weeks away, but Oklahoma comes alive each November in the holiday spirit with special festivals, light displays, ceremonies and activities. Make plans now to travel to one of these six can't-miss holiday experiences.

From a Christmas train ride in Stillwater to a Charles Dickens-inspired celebration in Claremore, we've got every age and interest covered.

Castle Christmas in Muskogee Open Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Eve, Castle Christmas takes Oklahomans on an old world winter wonderland adventure. Drive through Castleton Village to see more than 2,000 holiday light displays, including a large collection of holiday inflatables. Take a horse-drawn carriage or tractor-drawn

hayride through the village or climb on a pony or camel (weather permitting).

Hop aboard a Christmas Train to tour the grounds and light displays. Have your photo taken with Father Christmas and shop the holiday merchants for gifts, souvenirs, ornaments, unique additions to your holiday light display and even fireworks in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a free viewing of classic holiday films including “Frosty the Snowman,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and more, nightly. Be sure to get your family some movie snacks at the Kris Kringle Kafe.

Extend the festive fun with a visit to the nearby Garden of Lights at Honor Heights Park in Muskogee. The gardens’ display features over one million lights and even has an outdoor ice rink.

Both light displays are free to enjoy, however, rides and the ice rink charge admission. Outdoor activities at The Castle are open seven days a week from 6 to 10 p.m.

Indoor activities are open Thursday through Sunday until Dec. 15 and then are open all week until the end of the year. Learn more at www.okcastle.com/castle-christmas.

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Wonderland of Lights at the Woolaroc Located 12 miles outside of Bartlesville in northeast Oklahoma, the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve hosts a variety of family fun throughout the year. Inside the museum, families can learn about the American West, Native American art and even early aviation.

The Woolaroc Lodge ranch house looks just as it did when the family walked out in 1948.

Tour the nine bedroom, nine bathroom home that hosted guests including President Harry Truman, Wiley Post and Will Rogers.

The wildlife preserve is home to more than 30 species of native and exotic animals including majestic bison, longhorn cattle and elk. Kids especially enjoy the Animal Barn and children’s playground. And, every Friday, Saturday & Sunday from Thanksgiving to Christmas, the grounds are illuminated by more than 750,000 holiday lights. Explore the lights from aboard a wagon or walk about to get an up-close view of the holiday wonder of this old fashioned Christmas experience. Families can also enjoy live entertainment, snacks and a visit with Santa Claus. The Wonderland of Lights is free for those visiting the museum the same day. For those just wanting to experience the lights, admission is $4 for adults and $1 for children. Learn more at www.woolaroc.org.

In Bartlesville, there is more family fun to enjoy at Kiddie Park, 205 N Cherokee Ave. CASTLE CHRISTMAS IN MUSKOGEE

Join our teaching artists every Saturday from 1-4 pm as they interact with families to create extraordinary works of art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, and special occasions.

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This historic park hosts a kid-sized carnival called A Christmas to Remember.

Located just outside Bartlesville, there is plenty more family fun to be had including a visit to Kiddie Park. Kiddie Park hosts a kid-sized carnival called A Christmas to Remember.

The Christmas Train in Dry Gulch Dry Gulch USA in Adair (northeast Oklahoma) operates most of the year as a kids’ camp and retreat center. However, during the holidays, the 1800s-themed western town plays host to approximately 50,000 guests for the annual Christmas Train. A massive, narrow-gauge steam locomotive takes guest on a journey through the Christmas story, told by a narrator and witnessed by a number of displays including a live nativity. While the train ride is the likely the most anticipated attraction, families can also explore the Christmas village, race go-karts, ride a stage coach or elf train, take in a Cowboy music show, twirl around on a carousel and visit with Santa.

Tickets sell out fast each season so book your adventure well in advance. Learn more at www.christmastrain.com.

Polar Express in Stillwater From the book to the movie, “The Polar Express” has woven its way into the heart of Christmas and it’s rolling into Stillwater this holiday season. Ready your golden tickets

and prepare yourself for a magical train ride to the North Pole. Families are encouraged to wear pajamas, just like the characters in the story. Along the way, guests hear pieces of the motion picture soundtrack and enjoy cookies and cocoa, bringing the story to life.

When the train stops at the North Pole, a special guest boards the train. Santa makes a special visit with each child aboard the train to deliver a silver sleigh bell, completing a truly magical experience. Learn more at www.easternflyerpolarexpressride.com.

Christmas on the Western Frontier in El Reno On Dec. 1, the town of El Reno celebrates the Christmas season with a special night filled with activities on its historic Main Street.

To kick off the celebration, an old-fashioned parade marches into town with more than 50 festive floats. Afterward, families can enjoy trolley rides, storytelling, strolling carolers and so much more as they mill about the town square. Kids can explore Santa’s workshop, craft some fun art projects and even chat with the jolly elf himself. Local businesses stay open late, offering special holiday

promotions. The evening of fun concludes with a tree lighting ceremony at the Petree Plaza followed by live entertainment.

El Reno celebrates another old-fashioned Christmas tradition brought to America by German immigrants. Every year, Fort Reno hosts its annual Christmas Guns celebration.

According to legend, the loud sounds of the Christmas guns are said to dispel any evil spirits, in preparation for the upcoming holiday. The guns are quite loud so come prepared! Stick around afterward to explore the fort and enjoy storytelling, snacks and a visit with Santa. The celebration is free to attend and begins at 2 p.m on Saturday, Dec. 11. Learn more at www.elrenomainstreet.com and www.fortreno.org.

Dickens on the Boulevard in Claremore

re-enactors, live entertainment, a Victorian street dance and more. Open until 8 p.m. each night, festive shops and local boutiques welcome shoppers with living window displays. Families can stroll the streets, ride a wagon through town, pose for pictures with Santa, listen to stories and learn about the Victorian era along the way. In an artisan village, re-enactors portray blacksmiths, glass blowers, weavers, wood carvers, sculptures and more as they answer questions and sell their creations. A Victorian food court serves up classic fare including stew, beans and cobbler. Put on your best Victorian attire and compete in a best dressed costume contest. The festival is free to attend and festivities begin at 6 p.m. on the Friday & Saturday before Thanksgiving. Learn more at www.downtownclaremore.org.

Community Sponsor of Exploring Oklahoma:

Hosted annually the weekend before Thanksgiving, Claremore’s historic downtown transports itself back in time to the days of Dickens. This Victorian-themed festival ushers in the holidays with a citywide celebration featuring living history

Have _____, will travel. a. kids b. dogs c. stuff d. all of the above Bob Moore Subaru

13010 N. Kelley, Oklahoma City, OK 73114 405-749-9049 www.bobmooresubaru.com Purchase or lease any new (previously untitled) Subaru and receive a complimentary factory scheduled maintenance plan for 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first.) Customer must take delivery before 12-31-2016 and reside within the promotional area. At participating dealers only. See retailer for the Subaru Added Security Maintenance Plan for intervals, coverages and limitations, program details and eligibility.

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Ask the experts

Creating Gratitude at Home We asked local experts to weigh in on their top tips to instill gratitude in children.

Trudy Ruminer Ask each family member to write down at least 20 small things that bring them joy and create a “joy jar” for everyone in the family.

Then as a consequence for negative behavior, your child would have to choose something from another family member's “joy jar” to complete for them. As a reward for kind behavior, a parent would pick an item from the child’s joy jar to complete for the child.

This also works well to reduce sibling rivalry.

Your kids can complete an item for their sibling as a way to make amends.

Trudy Ruminer is a licensed clinical social worker and the clinical director and owner of True North Therapeutic Solutions, an outpatient mental health agency in Oklahoma City. Trudy is mother to four adult children and the proud grandmother to one. She draws her knowledge not only from her own personal parenting experiences, but also from her years of experience working closely with families.

Local experts weigh in on even more topics at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/ask-the-experts.

Tamara Walker

Anne K. Jacobs As parents, we work very hard to provide for all of our children's needs which makes it especially difficult when we see our children act in ungrateful and selfish ways. Parents can put a lot of pressure on themselves to make the most of a teachable moment.

However, children often learn the most from the smaller, everyday moments. The first strategy is to model appreciation and a giving spirit. Children intuitively sense that our true values are reflected through our behaviors more than our words. Show them these behaviors extend to others outside of our home as well.

Help your children love their own characteristics. Praise positive behaviors ("I'm proud to have such a caring daughter"), and label undesired behaviors ("Leaving Susan out hurt her feelings"). Often children can be more sensitive and caring out in the world than at home. Share with your children the wonderful things you hear about them from others, without contrasting it to the less-than-desirable behaviors you might see at home. Letting your children know that you are grateful for them, especially during the rocky times, gives them an important foundation from which they can risk caring for others.

Anne K. Jacobs earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Child Psychology from the University of Kansas and enjoys serving children, adolescents and their families. In addition to her private practice in Edmond, she holds an adjunct faculty position at Southern Nazarene University. Her family includes: husband, Noel who is also a child psychologist; twin daughters, Keegan and Sarah; one dog, two cats, and five tarantulas.

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Volunteering as a family is a great way to instill gratitude and generosity in your kids. Volunteering also teaches kids about compassion, empathy, responsibility and the world around them. If your child is too young to volunteer at local organizations, they can still participate in other volunteer activities. For example, when I operated a preschool/ daycare facility, the kids in my care were preschool and young elementary age. We hosted our own fundraiser, a dance party, to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, using materials provided by the foundation. The kids asked parents, relatives and friends to pledge money to the cause.

The kids loved raising money to help kids who were sick. We also talked about being grateful for our health and the importance of taking good care of our bodies.

Tamara Walker, R.N. shares her family expertise at MomRN.com and Ask MomRN Show, a weekly online talk show featuring family/parenting, health and family entertainment topics with well-known experts, authors, and celebrity guests.

Tamara is a mom of two young adults. She lives with her husband in Edmond.

Greg Gunn There should be an attitude of gratitude first to those in the family. Family members

“My son said to me, ‘I’m scared.’ ”

should always treat each other with gratitude by verbalizing “thank you” and having a kind hearted spirit towards each other.

Siblings should be happy for each other when they receive gifts and not need to get one too. However, that does not come naturally. It will need to be taught. One time a young boy was complaining to his mother that he only got $1 from the tooth fairy and felt like he should get $5 like one of his friends did. His mom asked him to come over to the computer where she found some pictures of children around the world who slept on cardboard boxes and did not have a pillow for a tooth fairy to even give them a penny. Helping our children to see all the wonderful things they have and giving them an opportunity to help others will help them grow up to be grateful and generous.

Greg Gunn, founder of Family-iD, is a life coach, pastor, author and speaker from Oklahoma City. Married for 30 years, Greg is a father of seven kids, a father-in-law and a grandfather of two. For 17 years, Greg has led Family Vision Ministries, a ministry that helps families put their purpose on paper and pass it on to future generations.

Jim Priest Model and nurture gratitude intentionally.

Take your kids to events where they can be generous either by giving or by donating their time. Give thanks every night at the supper table for your food and express thanks to family members for good deeds large and small. Above all, help them understand all we have is a gift from God. Jim Priest is the CEO of Sunbeam Family Services, a 109-year-old non-profit that provides a range of social services to support Oklahoma’s most vulnerable people.

Jim and his wife, Diane, have been married for 38 years and have two adult children, Amanda and Spencer and are owned by a dog named Jeter.

Dr. Lisa L . Marotta Selling your kids on being thankful can be just as tedious as getting them to eat spinach.

But keep it up because both are “good for you.” Research on gratitude in children has found lasting effects on mood, mental health and life satisfaction. Breaking down the skills in gratitude, we find that there are three parts to helping kids understand the bigger picture in a kind action: 1. The intention of the giver. Ask questions like “how did this person know you would like this gift?” Highlighting the thought behind the action helps kids learn from the mindset of others who are generous.

2. The cost of giving. All giving involves sacrifice. “What could your friend have been doing instead of helping you with your project?” Time, money and sharing are choices made in place of other options. This understanding enhances appreciation.

3. The benefits. Small actions can create a big difference. Many families have a tradition at the dinner table or at bedtime to share the “highs and lows” of their day.

This habit directs attention to the little things people do that make a day better.

Gratitude and generosity are two sides of the same emotional coin. Teaching gratitude to your children is a rewarding effort that will have lasting benefits to their emotional resilience. When a child develops an attitude of gratitude, they are more likely to pass the kindness onto others. Who knows? They might even thank you for it!

Dr. Lisa L. Marotta is celebrating 22 years of private practice. She is a clinical psychologist in Edmond with a special heart for women, children and families. Dr. Marotta enjoys writing, public speaking and blogging. She and her husband Sal have two young adult daughters.

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NOVEMBER 2016

A single father. A gravely ill child. When he was at the end of his rope, United Way support lent a hand that’s changed two lives for good. And it’s all possible because people like you stand up and give.

We stand behind lives in crisis and behind the promise that across Central Oklahoma, desperate need will be met.

StandUnitedOKC.com

resource

directories

GOT CHILDREN? THEN YOU NEED LOTS OF RESOURCES! INTRODUCING THE “YELLOW PAGES” FOR OKC AREA PARENTS. From pediatricians to special needs therapy, birthday party ideas and private schools, our resource directories—both here and online—provide local parents with the information they need to help their families and children thrive.

Check out these businesses and those you find at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/directories/ and be sure to tell them you found their business via MetroFamily Magazine.

61 62

Party Guide, pages 61-62 Andy Alligator’s Fun Park Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge Forever After Parties Ice Cream Delights Mad Science Central Oklahoma Mobile Laser Forces My Princess Parties Myriad Gardens Skate Galaxy OKC

62

Foster Care, page 62 SAFY St. Francis Community Services

63

Retail/Restaurant, page 63 Jimmy’s Egg learning tree toys, books & games Once Upon A Child The Meat House

63

Child Care, page 63 Primrose School of Edmond

64 65

Family Fun, pages 64-65 Dodge City Paintball & Outdoor Laser Tag Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma Paint ’N Station Skeletons: A Museum of Osteology Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree Farm Unpluggits Playstudio

65

Health & Fitness, page 65 Dr. Laura Ballinger, DDS Just Kids Pediatrics Santiago Reyes, Pediatric Pulmonologist

66

After School Activities, page 66 The Dance Department Edmond Fine Arts Institute Little Spanish Bridge My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Oklahoma History Center Soccer City OKC Velocity Dance Center

67

Special Needs, page 67 Brain Balance Center of OKC Skills for Living TOTAL POSS-ABILITIES

Find more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories/ METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

PARTY GUIDE

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NOVEMBER 2016

PARTY GUIDE

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Call 800-600-7239 or visit SAFY.org/Oklahoma www.fostercare-ok.org

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

Thanksgiving 2016

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

RETAIL/RESTAURANT

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Turkey Prime Rib Tenderloin Roast

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FAMILY FUN

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

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Paint & Play Place

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Plates & Canvas' Come paint one for your Home!

Open Friday after Thanksgiving

Weekdays 1-7 Weekends 10-7

Paint Me a Story Nov 9th 10:30 - 11:30am $10 Reserve your space today

Seasonal Plate Specials $20

Pre-Tagging Available on Weekends 10:00 to 5:00

Choose & cut your own fresh Christmas tree or select a beautiful pre-cut Noble, Grand, Douglas or Fraser Fir.

Art 'N Appetizers Nov 11th 6:30 - 9:30pm Thrifty Thursdays $3 off Between 3:00 - 6:00pm

• Living Christmas Trees • Shade Trees • Wreaths • Garland • Stands

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Paint your own pottery studio. 7906 N. May, OKC

- Paint and Play Indoors - Paint Your Own Pottery - Paint and Take Projects - Grown-Ups Paint Nights - After-School Workshops - Birthday Parties

405-340-7584 • www.unpluggits.com

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NOVEMBER 2016

340-5488

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As a family dentist, she welcomes kids (and their parents) to experience quality, gentle dentistry in a relaxing environment.

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Call for an appointment today and receive a FREE kids Sonicare toothbrush with complete exam, X-rays and cleaning!

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Breathe Easier Santiago Reyes, MD Pediatric Pulmonology

For Appointments Call 405-945-4495 Specializing in respiratory diseases of children and adolescents including asthma, cystic fibrosis, respiratory infections, chronic and acute respiratory conditions.

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Serving Oklahoma for over 20 years.

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A gymnastics class appropriate for my special needs child?

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Find your family resources at MetroFamily’s OKC Marketplace!

16425 NW 150th, Piedmont METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2016

HEALTH & FITNESS

Dr. Laura Ballinger knows kids.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Mommy and Me Classes

The Dance Department

Dads, Grandparents & Nannies too!

Award winning children’s program Experts in children’s fitness Ages 6 months - 8 years Birthday Parties

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

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

Try a free class at MY GYM by signing up at my gym.com/edmond

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838 W Danforth/Edmond 405-324-9182

¡Español para todos! Baby, Kids and Adults! ¡Bilingual Skills for life!

Little Spanish Bridge brings a class held 100% in Spanish! Children will learn Spanish through: Art, Music and Movement, Math Skills and Problem Solving, Science and Geography and much, much more. ALL IN SPANISH!

Call today to enroll: 405 805-6283 or register on our website: www.littlespanishbridge.com

2000 NW 150th Street. Oklahoma City/Edmond

CREATING FRIENDSHIPS ONE STEP AT A TIME

E n r ol l NOW! C a ll today!

• Birthday Party Packages • Indoor Soccer Leagues

Half-Day Winter Camps: Dec. 19-22 and Dec. 26-29

Try a class today!

soccercityokcity.com

($95 for each week of half-day sessions)

Beginners, recreational and advanced players welcome.

Lil Kickers Winter Session Nov. 28-Mar. 11

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

405-748-3888

Call TODAY!

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NOVEMBER 2016

11122 N Rockwell Ave Ste A-11 OKC

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“As we went through our first month, huge things started to happen. Focus and grades have improved. The results gave us light at the end of the tunnel.”

- ANGIE and DAVID S., Brain Balance Parents Brain Balance is a non-medical approach combining physical and sensory exercises with academic skill training and healthy nutrition. We identify the issues, then create a plan that addresses your child’s specific needs.

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NOVEMBER 2016

SPECIAL NEEDS

NEW Simulated Driving Program!

Thank you

Metro Family thanks all of the amazing sponsors of our Cover Kids Search 2017!

And a special thanks to the families who joined the fun.

We look forward to announcing our winners and to another exciting event next year.

Sponsors:

Participating businesses:

We want your opinions!

Family Favorites You can help determine our Family Favorites for 2017!

Tell us what you think are the BEST family-friendly local places to go, businesses and services in the OKC area.

Nominate your "faves" until Nov. 20 then be ready to help determine the winners in the second round of voting in early Dec. When you nominate and vote, you'll be eligible to win a weekend trip during the holidays to the Gaylord Texan resort in Grapevine, Texas, valued at $900!

Food • Places & Events • Camps • Birthday Parties • Shopping • Medical • Holiday & Community Celebrations • After School Activities • Education • Child Care • Community Support

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ familyfavoritesokc

Kid Review:

Address: 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman Kid reviewer’s name: Samuel Roldán Age: 9

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

What made the experience stand out?

I’ve been to the Sam Noble Museum before but it’s different every time I go because I know more from what I’ve read or seen on PBS. What made it stand out this time was seeing the new exhibit, ‘The Mystery of the Mayan Medallion.’ I love going to this museum because it has my name in the title; ‘Noble’ would be a cool last name.

What was the best part?

The adventure part of the tour reminded me of “Indiana Jones” but set in Central America. My Dad is from there. I loved the explanations about poisonous animals that live in the jungle and getting to smell familiar scents like cacao and achiote that remind me of my grandparents’ kitchen.

What was the worst part?

It always takes our family a long time to get through a museum because my brother, Isaac, is 4 and he wants to stop and see every possible thing. I want to get to the point and just see the main things. He can’t read yet so I have to read him all the signs. Sometimes, I just make up what they say so we can get done faster.

Will other kids like this museum and why?

Sure! They definitely will because there’s so much to see and do. I think it was planned for kids because it’s not like other museums where you can’t touch anything and people freak out if you get too close to what’s on display. I really liked the area called “When the Earth Shakes” because there are a lot of places where you can see earthquakes explained and a metal trampoline where you can see if your bouncing matches a pattern of one on a screen. There’s also a table where you can build a structure and then use a dial to make it shake harder and harder to see how much shaking your building could withstand.

I think what kids want is to not be bored at a museum and they won’t be at this one.

Did your siblings enjoy it?

Isaac wants to be a paleontologist. He’ll tell you so if you ask him; so, for that reason, I know he enjoyed seeing the dinosaur skeletons and the Discovery Room where you can pretend to dig for dinosaur bones.

Our baby is almost 2 and he liked hearing the animal sounds in an area with a lot of bears and birds that looks like a forest and a prairie.

If you could do this again, what would you do differently?

I would eat a snack before going to the museum. The café was closed. I did buy some rock candy that was really good.

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NOVEMBER 2016

Does what you saw match , up with anything you re learning in school or have seen before in a book, on TV, etc.?

I’ve read some about ancient civilizations like the Mayans. My school did a unit on them for history but I didn’t really think of them as people until now. I mean, they left drawings and all that, but it didn’t occur to me that they would have eaten the same things we eat now and also be afraid of the same jungle animals. People are just people, even from a long time ago. Classification, flora and fauna are something we talk about a lot in science class, besides dinosaurs and who lived here before we lived here.

, What do you think you ll remember most about having gone to the museum?

The gift shop was the coolest part. I bought 24K gold in a bottle for only $4. I’ll also remember when we took my brother and how he loved the dinosaur bones even at age 4, before he became a paleontologist.

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

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