MetroFamily Magazine September/October 2025

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025

Find Your Fall Flow

Fresh ideas from local experts for improving family wellness

Autumn Adventures in Motion

Where to play, explore and make memories this season

Off the Wall

Discover art in OKC where you least expect it

Halloween Harvest

Friday, October 31 5-8 p.m.

OKC Parks annual Halloween Harvest is a FREE spooktacular celebration that brings together families and friends for a night of festive fun. This free come-and-go event transforms our community centers into Halloween havens filled with treats, games, and glowing surprises. Enjoy interactive games and seasonal snacks while everyone shows off their costumes and collects candy.

Macklanburg

2234 NW 117th St. OKC, OK, 73120

Minnis Lakeview

12520 NE 36th St. OKC, OK, 73084

Pitts

1920 N Kate Ave. OKC, OK, 73111

Southern Oaks

400 SW 66th St. OKC, OK, 73139

Willa D. Johnson

909 Frederick Douglass Ave. OKC, OK, 73117

Join us for free family fun!

ON THE COVER

Marly is the winner of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the 6-7 age category. This creative third grader enjoys math, reading and swimming. She dreams of becoming an artist and enjoys trying new foods, pitching in at her family’s restaurants and helping host dinner parties. Marly is the daughter of Rachel and Jeff and big sister of Ronin.

Features

HEALTHY FAMILIES GUIDE

Expert-backed wellness tips & local resources

BEYOND BOOKS

How libraries support whole-family

FUELING STUDENT SUCCESS

Nutritious, sensory-friendly meals help students thrive in and out of the classroom

REAL TALK ABOUT ROBOTS

What parents need to know about AI

BUSY NIGHTS, HEALTHY BITES

Fuel your family with easy recipes

FAMILY RULES FOR THE DIGITAL WORLD

Create a safety plan to protect your kids online

TEEN SLEEP MYTHS BUSTED

Understanding teens’ shifting sleep cycles

WHEN STRESS BECOMES TOO MUCH

How dads can recognize warning signs and get help

Departments

12 WHAT’S RIGHT WITH OUR SCHOOLS

How local districts are effectively addressing the teacher shortage

14 LOCAL FAMILY FUN

Uncover unexpected art in every corner of OKC

18 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Pumpkin patches, festivals & budget-friendly fall fun

EXPLORING OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN

Hiking, waterfalls & history await in Sulphur

62 LAST LOOK

Local story times bring learning to life

PHOTO BY DEBBIE MURNAN

PHOTOS BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY JESSE EDGAR

CEO & Publisher

Erin Page

COO & President

Morgan Harris

Editorial Director

Lindsay Cuomo

Art Director

Stacy Noakes

Assistant Editor

Emiley Bainbridge

Editorial Assistant

Rebecca Fast

Sales Director

Katrina Kalb

Media Strategist

Dana Price

Events Director

Casey Shupe

Content & Account Specialist

Renee Filippo

Contributing Writers

Taylor Bollinger

Umo Callins

Michael Dickerson

Mecca Rayne

Tim Willert

Contributing Photographer

Bridget Pipkin

Contact us

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

Phone: 405-601-2081

tips@metrofamilymagazine.com metrofamilymagazine.com

MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2025 by MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Midwest City Chamber of Commerce

If you’ve been reading MetroFamily for a while, you know we don’t shy away from addressing real issues that matter to families. We love to share seasonal events, like fall festivals and pumpkin patches, because we know bolstering family joy enhances relationships. And we know it’s equally important to address the everyday challenges and questions parents face.

When we ask parents about their top concerns, family health and well-being consistently rise to the top. I understand this on a visceral level. Over the past few years, I have faced unexpected health challenges that have changed how I think about taking care of myself and my family. I’m here today, present for my kids, because I prioritized my health.

I’ve also learned that physical health is just one piece of the puzzle — mental well-being, healthy relationships with

food and tech-life balance all play essential roles in a family’s overall wellness.

That’s why this year’s Healthy Families Guide really hits home. It’s packed with advice from local experts who understand what OKC families are dealing with, from navigating AI and digital safety to exploring sensory-friendly meals and understanding pelvic health.

Reading the practical insights in this issue has reminded me, again, that health and wellness are so much broader than caring for our physical bodies, though that is important. I’ve also been reminded that caring for our kids well starts with caring for ourselves first as parents. Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s instrumental to ensuring we can show up fully for the people we love.

Speaking of which, I wish you a season of caring for yourself well so you can also enjoy family joy and connection at those pumpkin patches, fall festivals and in the great outdoors.

With gratitude, Erin Page

Erin

Page

CEO & Publisher

PRIORITIZE YOUR HEALTH THIS FALL SO YOU CAN BE FULLY PRESENT FOR ALL THE PUMPKIN PATCHES, FALL FESTIVALS AND FAMILY FUN THE SEASON BRINGS.

Connect with MetroFamily

Your Parenting Playbook

for OKC in September & October

Check out 4 opportunities to learn, have fun and take advantage of local resources.

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

Help us pick our stars of 2026

We need your help to determine which Cover Kid hopefuls will appear on our magazines in 2026. Vote for your favorite photo submissions daily through Sept. 10. The top five coolest and most charming finalists in each category, as voted by you, will be interviewed by a panel of local judges. Your daily votes make all the difference!

Cast your vote at metrofamilymagazine.com/ coverkidssearch

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Connect with MetroFamily

2 Plan your family’s autumn adventures

Get set for nonstop fall family fun! Explore fairs and festivals around the state, vibrant fall hikes, Insta-worthy pumpkin patches, exciting Fall Break camps, Halloween thrills and trick-or-treating, Día de los Muertos celebrations and more, all in our Fall Fun Guides at metrofamilymagazine.com/fall

For just $25 annually, become a MetroFamily Insider and receive a mailed subscription to MetroFamily Magazine, free tickets to MetroFamily events, including Geekapalooza on Nov. 8, and other special offers. Join today at metrofamilymagazine.com/insider.

Ages 4-15 years old. October 16, 17, 20

1 Day: 1/2 Day $35

1-Day: Full Day $65

2-Day: 1/2 Day $70

2-Day: Full Day $125

3-Day: 1/2 Day $100 3-Day: Full Day $175

Fall registration now open. Fall Dates: Aug 11 - Nov 1

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

Email Jennifer at lilkickers@soccercityokcity.com for availability.

4

Join us at Geekapalooza

MetroFamily’s biggest STEAM Festival of the year is back — and we’d love for your family to join the fun! Geekapalooza is Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Rose State College.

The festival brings families together to experience how science, technology, engineering, art and math are fun for all ages. Through hands-on projects and expo booths hosted by local leaders, attendees learn about robotics, the science of flight, coding and geoscience. Plus, enjoy drones, geode smashing, a portable planetarium, food trucks and a scavenger hunt contest with grand prizes!

Tickets are just $5 per child when you register in advance or $8 at the door. Adults and kids under 2 are free.

Register now and save! 

Looking for #OKCFamilyFun?

Sign up to receive MetroFamily's FREE award-winning daily e-newsletter, full of family fun ideas, local events and parenting resources. Subscribe here!

Fall Favorites

5 newsworthy happenings for families

BY EMILEY BAINBRIDGE. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

everyone. The new, larger, permanent facility will allow Palomar to continue its vital work assisting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, human trafficking and children exposed to trauma. Learn more at palomarokc.org

RENDERING BY ALLFORD HALL MONAGHAN MORRIS

Yukon student publishes debut book

Fourteen-year-old Jack Cain, a Yukon Public Schools student, just published his first book — and it’s not your typical alphabet story. ABC Animals: Xavier’s Doodle World is a whimsical A-to-Z adventure filled with colorful creatures, all written and illustrated by Cain himself. Each page introduces a new animal for every letter of the alphabet, brought to life through Cain’s colorful art and joyful storytelling. An autistic author and illustrator, Cain has always loved stories, animals and animation.

Cain lives in Oklahoma with his mom, grandparents and a playful bunch of cats. He dreams of one day opening a farm animal sanctuary filled with cows, horses and pigs — a place where kindness always leads. All proceeds from his book will go toward making that dream a reality.

Check out Cain’s book. 

Water like you’ve never seen it at Sam Noble Museum

Visit Sam Noble Museum in Norman through Oct. 19 to see The State of Water: Our Most Valuable Resource, an exhibition by Guggenheim award-winning photographer Brad Temkin.

The exhibition invites visitors to explore the systems, technologies and innovations that deliver our most vital natural resource. It highlights the ingenuity behind modern water and wastewater infrastructure and celebrates the design and engineering solutions that help meet our growing needs while respecting nature’s limits.

Temkin’s photographs reveal the unexpected beauty of water in all its forms, from sludge to crystal clear, offering a compelling visual call to conserve this essential resource. The exhibition emphasizes that water conservation is a shared responsibility.

Presented in both English and Spanish, this STEAM-rich exhibition is designed to engage curious minds of all ages. Learn more at samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

YMCA steps in to preserve Camp DaKaNi’s legacy

Camp DaKaNi, a nearly 40-acre outdoor camp nestled in Oklahoma City, will now be managed by the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City through a new partnership aimed at preserving and expanding the beloved camp’s future.

For decades, Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma operated Camp DaKaNi at 3309 E. Hefner Road, serving generations of children and families, especially those involved with Camp Fire Boys & Girls. Struggling to recover from the pandemic’s

financial impact, the camp closed in 2024, a loss felt across the community.

The YMCA plans to keep Camp DaKaNi in its current location and expand its impact by integrating the camp into its youth development and outdoor programs. Both organizations share a commitment to community and a passion for enriching young lives through naturebased experiences. Learn more at ymcaokc.org/campdakani

WovenLife celebrates 100 years of inclusive care and learning in OKC

WovenLife, Inc. is a childcare and preschool facility based in Oklahoma City, proudly celebrating its 100th anniversary this fall. The organization offers a comprehensive Child Development Program for children from birth through 5 years old, as well as an Adult Day Health Center serving adults and seniors.

In addition, WovenLife provides onsite speech, physical and occupational therapy services. All programs are inclusive, welcoming individuals with or without disabilities.

At the Child Development Center, children learn and grow together in a supportive environment. For those who need additional therapy, services are conveniently provided during the daycare day — allowing parents to work while their child receives the care they need.

The community is invited to a 100th anniversary celebration at WovenLife on Saturday, Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more at wovenlifeok.org.

What’s Right with Our Schools

Addressing Oklahoma’s Teacher Shortage

Career coaching, mentorship and early intervention improve teacher retention

BY TIM WILLERT. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Inrecent years, school districts across the country have grappled with a growing teacher retention crisis, with many educators leaving the profession after just one year in the classroom. High stress, limited support and increasing demands have contributed to an alarming turnover rate that disrupts student learning and places added strain on schools. In response, local districts are reevaluating how they recruit, support and retain teachers, recognizing long-term success in education depends on investing in those at the front of the classroom.

The scope of the problem

Not that long ago, Edmond Public Schools was struggling to find teachers and keep them. As recently as the 2021-22 school year, 70 percent of district secondary teachers and 55 percent of elementary teachers quit following their first year on the job.

Moore Public Schools found itself in a similar situation. Six years ago, Oklahoma’s fifth-largest school district relied heavily on first-year teachers who lacked formal training because they had not completed traditional education degree programs.

“We became very aware that, like everybody else in Oklahoma, we were having a really hard time securing teachers,” said David Peak, a longtime Moore district administrator who oversees elementary and secondary education and instruction. “The other thing we found was about 70 to 75 percent of our hires came in through a nontraditional track.”

Many of Moore’s new teachers were hired with emergency or alternative certificates, a direct result of the district facing a teacher shortage, as well as the impact of the pandemic.

“They don’t have the first idea about how to teach other than just the social learning they experienced from going to school themselves,” Peak said. “What you see is that you’ve got folks who are perpetuating good and bad habits.”

Edmond’s

solution: Personal connection

Associate Superintendent Randy Decker, who oversees human resources for Edmond Public Schools, turned to Dondrei Williams, a highly organized tech-savvy teacher and coach from Texas, to be the district’s first recruitment and retention specialist. EPS then moved several top teachers into new roles as early career coaches and called on veteran elementary school principal Nicole Marler to lead them.

“What we found … is that in order to retain the next generation of teachers, we needed to make sure that our on-boarding process was more robust,” said Marler. “[Teaching] is a challenging position, even when you’re a veteran. But certainly, when you’re fresh out of college, there’s a big learning curve. There’s a lot of things that you have to get good at quickly in order to be successful.”

Edmond’s career coaches are skilled educators and proven leaders whose sole responsibility is to take care of first-year teachers. Because the coaches are not connected to teacher evaluations or building culture, they’re able to be an objective lens to help first-year teachers navigate challenges.

Williams also polls teachers during their first year to find out how things are going.

“We look at that data and then if there are some things that we need to [change], we get it to the right people that can help make that happen,” Williams said.

DONDREI WILLIAMS, RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION SPECIALIST FOR EDMOND PUBLIC SCHOOLS, HANDS OUT GIFT BAGS DURING A TEACHER RECRUITMENT BRUNCH.

The turnaround for Oklahoma’s fourthlargest district, with 25,000 students and 1,800 teachers, has been dramatic. Edmond Public Schools retained 93 percent of its first-year elementary teachers and 85 percent of first-year secondary teachers following the 2024-25 school year.

“Honestly, I don’t know of another factor that has turned that so quickly [other] than the personal connection that career coaches are bringing,” Decker said.

Moore’s approach: Embedded mentorship

Moore Public Schools developed what Peak calls “mentorship on steroids” — an instructional model complete with “nonnegotiables for moving forward.” Mentors anticipate the biggest challenges teachers will face and then front-load solutions. Strategies are phased in over the first year so new teachers don’t get overwhelmed.

“We recognized that if we hit these new people with everything they need to know two days before school starts, it’s impossible,” Peak said.

Michelle McNear, a deputy superintendent in charge of human resources for MPS, called the district’s mentorship program a “lifeline for our new teachers.”

“A lot of teachers struggle with classroom management in the beginning,” said McNear. “You learn the theory of it in college. But then, when you have a kid standing in front of you saying ‘no,’ that’s a whole different thing for a 22-year-old.”

Moore’s instructional coaches, whose sole job is to support classroom teachers, visit school buildings to observe and monitor first-year teachers, providing strategies as needed.

“If there are pieces of our strategies that our new teachers aren’t understanding, our coaches will actually model it for them,” Peak said. “They’ll say, ‘Let me come out and teach using this strategy. You can watch me, then the next hour you can try it, I’ll coach you and then we can see where we’re at.’ That has been incredibly effective.”

The district has also launched Effective Teacher Academies, which include two full days of instruction, one at the beginning of each semester. Teachers who need additional assistance can attend monthly 90-minute sessions after school.

Moore retained between 75 and 80 percent of first-year elementary and secondary teachers following the 2023-24 school year. The national average is between 60 and 65 percent.

Supporting teachers beyond the classroom

Both districts recognize that teacher retention goes beyond classroom support. Moore offers an employee assistance program, career tech and education tech programs for teachers, and a fully funded retirement system. In September, the district is scheduled to open a child development center across from Moore High School that will offer childcare for teachers and staff at a reduced rate.

“I feel like that will be a great recruitment tool,” McNear said. “The flip side of that is it’s also going to offer us a place where we can give childcare to our students who are teen moms and dads.”

These innovative approaches to teacher retention directly benefit students and families. When teachers stay, students experience more consistent instruction and stronger relationships with their educators.

The district is addressing the need for special education teachers by recruiting from within and offering a salary increase from 5 to 10 percent.

What this means for families

These innovative approaches to teacher retention directly benefit students and families. When teachers stay, students experience more consistent instruction and stronger relationships with their educators. The comprehensive support systems both districts have implemented ensure first-year teachers receive the guidance they need to be effective in the classroom from day one. Both districts are now using their support programs as recruiting tools, helping them attract quality candidates who know they’ll receive the help they need to succeed.

“(New educators) are savvy,” McNear said. “They want to know what you can offer them. [We tell them] we’re not going to put you in a classroom and shut the door and expect you to do it on your own. We’re going to offer support.”

Editor’s note: This article is part of a year-long series called What’s Right with Our Schools, highlighting the innovative and inspiring programs shaping public education in the Oklahoma City metro. Each installment explores a different theme, showcasing how educators, administrators and communities are coming together to create meaningful opportunities for students. Read the full series at metrofamilymagazine.com/whats-rightwith-our-schools

(LEFT ) MENTORS FROM MOORE PUBLIC SCHOOLS RECEIVE TRAINING FROM THE DISTRICT’S INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCE TEAM, SEVERAL OF WHOM ARE PICTURED AT RIGHT.

Murals & Masterpieces on the Move

Uncover

OKC’s colorful, creative public art in unexpected

places

To anyone who questions Oklahoma City’s cool factor, I say: the writing’s on the wall. Literally. Take a walk through the Plaza District, Paseo Arts District or downtown, and you’ll be greeted by larger-than-life murals, playful installations and bursts of unexpected creativity. The best part for budgeting families? It’s all free, all public and all perfect to explore with kids.

Art-filled adventures in OKC

On our adventure, my three kids and I set out to discover some of OKC’s most vibrant art scenes. It started with a lazy afternoon and zero agenda — just some good walking shoes and curiosity. But we quickly found ourselves drawn in to the colors, the stories and the scale of what we were seeing: art that wasn’t behind velvet ropes but wrapped around buildings, painted across alleyways and hiding in plain sight. We quickly found ourselves to be huge fans of art in unexpected places.

In the Plaza District, we picked favorites among the murals that line the walls between galleries, shops and cafés. It felt like stepping into a dream, or at the very least, a really cool indie movie set.

SPONSORED BY

We admired the brushwork and technique in pieces where faces looked so lifelike you felt they might blink. The kids called out their favorites: the one with the bear, the one with the bright red sun, the one with the geometric feathers. We oohed and aahed, just like we would at a fireworks show. And between the art stops, we wandered into local spots. Bad Granny’s Bazaar had the exact level of kitschy chaos my kids live for, and Pie Junkie gave us the fuel to keep exploring. (Their key lime pie might be a masterpiece in its own right.)

Over at OAK OKC, a newly developed destination for shopping and dining, we didn’t step inside the restaurants that day (we were sweaty, loud and all of us needed a nap), but we made the most of the openair turf. The kids ran circles under the giant mirrored cloud sculpture,

EXPERIENCE THE VIBRANT MURALS IN THE PLAZA DISTRICT, LIKE THIS ONE BY LOCAL ARTIST TONY THUNDER.

officially titled Cloud Trees, created by artists Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin. The piece plays with light and reflection, and my toddlers were captivated. One of them stared straight up into it, mouth wide open, for a full 2 minutes, which in terms of a toddler’s attention span is basically a standing ovation.

Another day, we took an impromptu drive through downtown and let the city surprise us. Under the railroad overpasses near Bricktown, colorful murals from artists like Denise Duong and Dylan Cavin tell stories of culture, nature and imagination. Even the pillars supporting the overpass have been turned into vertical canvases.

One of our favorite downtown stops was the Arts Center Parking Garage, home to Small Talk About the Weather, an interactive sculpture by Creative Machines. The way the light dances across the

CREATIVE MACHINES’ PLAYFUL SCULPTURE IS INSPIRED BY OKLAHOMA’S EXTREME WEATHER.

structure as a result of our colorful suggestions made us gasp. It completely redefined what a parking garage could be.

We made a quick stop at Scissortail Park , where we saw the physics-defying piece Taking Flight: Light as a Feather created by Lesley Chang and Jason Klimoski. Meanwhile, the Skydance Bridge loomed in the background, a sculptural icon inspired by the scissor-tailed flycatcher and executed by Stan Carroll, Hans Butzer, Chris Ramseyer and a talented team of designers.

Auto Alley, we stumbled upon the spiral staircase that seems to rise out of nowhere. It isn’t traditional artwork, but in the right light and from the right angle, it feels like one. It’s a hidden architectural flourish that gives the neighborhood even more charm.

CLOUD TREES BY BRAD OLDHAM AND CHRISTY COLTRIN. PHOTO BY SHEA ALAN

And there’s still so much more we want to see. The OKC Underground is high on our list, a network of tunnels beneath downtown that’s home to rotating art displays and immersive light features. It’s part practical, part whimsical — perfect for kids who love a good secret passage.

We also want to take a tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol, where stunning murals showcase Oklahoma history and culture in breathtaking detail. And one of these days, we’ll make it to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark , where even the stadium walls pay homage to OKC’s artistic flair.

Let the city be your gallery

OKC’s art scene goes beyond museum walls. It’s on your way to the grocery store, around the corner from your coffee shop, wrapped around playgrounds and peeking out from alleyways. The creativity here is bold, welcoming and accessible. And when you see it through your kids’ eyes, when you hear them gasp, point and ask questions — it’s more than just beautiful. It’s unforgettable.

All you need is a little time, a pair of good walking shoes and, maybe, a pie break or two.

Plan your adventure with resources and interactive maps!

Must-see public art in OKC

Check out these family favorites from our art adventure:

• OKC Underground, colorful tunnels that lead to photo galleries and art installations

• Plaza Walls, a rotating series of murals from local and regional artists

• Cloud Trees, a mirrored sculpture by Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin that plays with light and reflection at OAK OKC

• Small Talk About the Weather, a playful sculpture by Creative Machines in the Arts Center Parking Garage that invites families to imagine controlling the weather

• Taking Flight: Light as a Feather, a gravitydefying sculpture by Lesley Chang and Jason Klimoski at Scissortail Park

RAMPAGE BY WOES MARTIN ON THE PLAZA WALLS

Calendar of Events

OKC Family Fun in September & October

32 Date night ideas

Calendar of Events

Things to do in September

SEPT. 3-6

Pottawatomie County Free Fair

Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center (1700 W Independence, Shawnee) features livestock competitions, arts & crafts, educational booths, fair food, midway games, live entertainment and carnival rides. Free admission. See website for schedule. freefair.org

SEPT. 4

KFOR 4Warn Storm School

Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features an engaging, interactive school program that dives into the wonders of weather with a KFOR 4Warn Storm Team meteorologist. Free with admission. 10am. Also held: Oct. 2. sciencemuseumok.org

SEPT. 5

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE COWBOY

Calendar of Events

SEPT. 5-6

Western Days Festival at Wild Horse Park (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features a fun run, parade, art show, live music, gunfighters, games and more. Free to attend. See website for schedule. mustangwesterndays.com

SEPT. 6

FREE Children’s Fishing Derby at Ten Acre Lake (15600 NE 10th St, Choctaw) features an age-divided fishing derby. Registration, 7:30am; fishing, 8-11am. mychoctaw.org

Walk-N-Roll for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at Bluff Creek Park (11301 N Meridian Ave) features an awareness walk benefiting Cure SMA. Free to attend; donations welcome. 9am-noon. walk-curesma.donordrive. com/oklahoma

Piedmont Founders Day in downtown Piedmont (Piedmont & Jackson, Piedmont) features a vintage, boutique & craft sale, plus a parade, inflatables, kids’ art contest, a petting zoo and more. Free to attend. 9am-4pm. piedmontfoundersday.com

World Primate Day at OKC Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) features games, caretaker chats and special animal enrichment highlighting the chimpanzees and Western lowland gorillas who call the zoo home. Free with admission. 9:30am-noon. okczoo.org

SEPT. 9-14

OKC Comets vs Sacramento River Cats at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (1 Mickey Mantle Dr). Prices vary. Tuesday, 6:05pm; Wednesday, 12:05pm; Thursday & Friday, 7:05pm; Saturday, 6:05pm; Sunday, 2:05pm. milb.com/oklahoma-city

SEPT. 11-14

Cirque du Soleil: OVO on Tour at the Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features dazzling acrobatic acts, choreography, music and lighting in this tribute to the diverse world of insects. Check website for ticket prices. Thursday & Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 3 & 7pm; Sunday, 1pm. cirquedusoleil.com

SEPT. 11-15

Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance at OG&E Coliseum (301 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features an all-new production with Mickey and his pals as they remix favorite Disney tunes into colorful worlds. $21.79 & up. See website for schedule. okstatefair.com

SEPT. 11-21

Oklahoma State Fair at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features free concerts, food and shopping vendors, shows, exhibits, games, carnival rides and more. Adults, $16; kids (6-11), $10; kids (5 & under), free. See website for hours. okstatefair.com

PHOTO BY DR. JENNIFER D.

SEPT. 12

FREE Ballet Under the Stars by OKC Ballet at Scissortail Park (415 S Robinson Ave) features classical ballet and modern dance performed by professional dancers and local students, plus a family dance class. 5:30-9pm. okcballet.org

BY

Kids Corner

A DOSE FROM DR. DAN

Have you ever been camping — outside, under the stars, with no Wi-Fi or tablets in sight? Just you, the trees, a warm crackling fire … and maybe some yummy marshmallows waiting to be toasted.

At first, it might feel a little weird. No screens buzzing. No streaming videos. Instead, there is the hoot of an owl and the chirp of crickets.

Camping has a way of making the world feel brand new — the stars shine brighter, the fire feels warmer and the marshmallows? Ten times tastier.

Nature gives us so much: fresh air to breathe, clouds in interesting shapes and leaves that crunch underfoot. It’s easy to miss all that when we’re rushing around. But when you slow down, you notice and feel something wonderful: gratitude. The next time you’re outside, take a second to look around. And whisper a quiet little thank you. Because the more you appreciate the world around you … the happier (camper) you will be!

P.S. Check out the QR code with your phone to see the Stickadoodle come to life!

Editor’s note: Dr. Dan Molina is a physician, artist and advocate for mental and emotional well-being. Through his whimsical stick figure art, Stickadoodles™, Dr. Dan shares heartwarming messages that resonate with kids and adults alike. Learn more about Dr. Dan and see more of his work at metrofamilymagazine.com/dr-dan

PHOTO

JANA CARSON

Calendar of Events

SEPT. 12

FREE Movie Night in the Park at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond) features an outdoor screening of Wicked. Movie starts at sunset. edmondparks.com

SEPT. 13

FREE Fall Block Party at Scissortail Park Sports Pavillion (403 SW 10th St) features free lessons and tournaments on the sports courts, fitness classes, food trucks, activities for kids, music and more. See website for schedule. scissortailpark.org

FREE Rock the Block Touch-a-Truck Community Event at Dolese Support Services Center (8300 N Oklahoma Ave) features a variety of construction equipment, big trucks and more. Quiet hour, 9-11am; horns on, 11am. facebook.com/dolesebrosco

FREE Aviation Festival at Max Westheimer Airport (1700 Lexington Ave, Norman) features STEM activities for kids, static displays showcasing various types of aircraft, food trucks and more. 9am-2pm. ou.edu/airport/additional-resources

Clifford the Big Red Dog at OKC Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) features a special meet-andgreet photo opportunity and educational activities with the beloved children’s book character. Best suited for ages 11 & under. Free with admission. 9am-3pm. okczoo.org

Grillstock BBQ & Music Festival at Buck Thomas Park (1903 NE 12th St, Moore) features a BBQ competition with four categories, a chili cook-off, people’s choice tastings & voting, live entertainment, a beer garden, vendor booths and more. Free to attend. 10am-5pm. grillstockok.com

FREE Oklahoma Comic Arts Festival at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features Oklahoma’s first-ever mashup of a comic book convention and arts festival. Get to know professional comic creators from Oklahoma, meet high-profile comic artists from around the country and learn how to make your own comics. 10am-6pm. oklahomacontemporary.org

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Curiousiday – Migration at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features activities that explore the fascinating world of migration. Free with admission. 10am-4pm. Also held: Oct. 11 – Spooktacular. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

SEPT. 14

Pawsitively Pampered Dog Wash & Craft Show at Yukon National Bank (1550 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon) features a dog wash fundraiser benefiting Pets & People Humane Society, a no-kill animal shelter in Yukon. Pamper your dogs and enjoy shopping, food trucks and more. Free to attend. 10am-4pm. facebook.com/ petsandpeoplehumanesociety

FREE Admission at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr). Visitors of all ages receive free access to the museum on the second Sunday of each month, thanks to generous support from the Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program. Also held: Oct. 12. okcmoa.com

PHOTO BY MECCA RAYNE

Calendar of Events

SEPT. 20

FREE Old Volks Show at Wild Horse Park (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features over 20 different classes of cars from the earliest makes and models and beyond as well as music from the 60s & 70s and food trucks. Free to attend. 8am-3pm. vwclubokc.org

Drop-in Art at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features come-and-go torn tonal paper collage art activities for all ages. No pre-registration required. Free with admission. 11am-4pm. okcmoa.com

FREE Heard on Hurd Street Fest in downtown Edmond (1st & Hurd, Edmond) features local food, unique shopping and live music. 6-10pm. Also held: Oct. 18. mycitizens.bank/heard-on-hurd

SEPT. 21

India Food & Arts Festival at Scissortail Park (601 S Robinson Ave) features food, clothing and cultural stalls from different regions of India. See Bollywood-style

dances, classical temple dances, a fashion show, live music and traditional art workshops. Free to attend. 11am-9pm. facebook.com/ indiafoodandartsfestival

OKC Phil Discovery Family

Series Concert at Civic Center

Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features an orchestra concert geared for kids, plus hands-on learning activities before the concert. $11. Pre-concert activities, 1pm; concert, 2pm. okcphil.org

SEPT. 23-27

Just Between Friends

Consignment Sale at Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson St, Norman) features new & gently used children’s clothes, toys, furniture and accessories. Prices vary. See website for schedule. norman.jbfsale.com

SEPT. 24

Homeschool Days at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features self-facilitated and staff-led activities for the whole family, including exhibits and themed educational activities. September’s theme is Prairie Tales: Finding the Story in History. Adults, $7; kids (4 & up), $5. 10am-2pm. oklahomahof.com

SEPT. 26

Fourth Friday Block Party in West Village District (W Sheridan Ave) features market vendors, live music, art exhibits, giveaways and more. Free to attend. 5-10pm. 24. westvillageokc.com

SEPT. 26-28

Route 66 Balloon and Kite Festival Parkhurst Ranch (720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia) features hot air balloons, a kite show, helicopter rides, tethered balloon rides, food trucks, vendor market, live music and more. $15; parking pass, $10. See website for schedule. oklahomaroute66.com

Greek Fest at St. George Greek Orthodox Church (2101 NW 145th St) features authentic Greek food, plus live entertainment and activities for kids. $20. Friday & Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 11am-4pm. facebook.com/okcgreekfest

SEPT. 27

Down Syndrome Festival & 5K Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features an awareness walk, festival activities, 1-mile fun run and 5k, benefiting DSACO. Prices vary. The festival is free to attend and open to the community. 8am. dsfestivaland5k.com

FREE DiscoverFest (formerly Tinkerfest) at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features a daylong celebration of curiosity and creativity with hands-on interactive activities that introduce children to STEM. Museum admission and activities are free and open to the public. 9am-4pm. sciencemuseumok.org

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

SEPT. 20

FREE Hispanic Folk Art Creations at Warr Acres Library (5901 NW 63rd St, Warr Acres). Learn how to create colorful art in tin relief. Preregister. Best suited for ages 12 & up. 10-11:30am. metrolibrary.org

FREE Clips and Hips presentation at Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a special presentation by Clips and Hips. The group will share about culture, music and dance to celebrate the diversity of the Hispanic and Latino communities in Oklahoma. 2-3pm. metrolibrary.org

SEPT. 27

Festival of the Matachines at Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine (700 SE 89th St) features the dance and drama of the Matachines, a traditional Spanish dance troupe. See talented dancers perform throughout the day. Free to attend. 8:30am-8pm. archokc.org/matachines

FREE Fiestas de las Américas at Calle Dos Cinco in Historic Capitol Hill (3019 SW 25th St) features a celebration of Oklahoma’s rich multicultural heritage with the Parade of the Americas, family activities and live entertainment. 10am-10pm. facebook.com/CalleDosCinco

OCT. 4

FREE Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at The Village Library (10307 N Penn Ave) features traditional dances and cultural insights from Grupo Panamerica, highlighting Panamanian folklore, music and heritage. Noon-1pm. metrolibrary.org

OCT. 11

FREE Sugar Skull Planters at Downtown Library (300 Park Ave). Decorate sugar skull (calaveras de azúcar) inspired flower pots, honoring a vibrant tradition from Mexican culture. Preregister. Supplies provided. For ages 13 & up. 1-2pm. metrolibrary.org

FREE Hispanic Festival at Scissortail Park (415 S Robinson Ave) features art, music and more celebrating Hispanic culture. 5-10pm. scissortailpark.org

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TANGO PR

SEPT. 27

Monarch Festival at Mollie Spencer Farm (1001 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon) features local gardeners, crafts, making stations, face painting and more. Free admission; preregistration required. 9am-noon. molliespencerfarm.org

Pioneer Library System Touch A Truck at Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson St, Norman) features fire engines, ambulances, mobile maker spaces, tow trucks, police vehicles and more. Drivers and experts will be on hand to answer questions about the equipment. Benefits the PLS Cleveland County locations. All ages welcome. $2 donations suggested. 9am-noon. plsfdn.org/touch-a-truck

Worldwide Day of Play at Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum (1714 W Wrangler Blvd, Seminole) features kids fishing derby and Gotcha Day Party for the museum dog Maggie, plus crafts and games. 9am-4pm. jasminemoran.com

Mid-America Street Fest at W.P “Bill” Atkinson Park (302 W Mid-America, Midwest City) features live entertainment,

food vendors, children’s activities, shopping and carnival-style rides. Free to attend; rides, $3 each or $12 all-day wristband. 11am-3pm. midwestcityok.org

FREE Plaza District Festival in the Plaza District (1700 block NW 16th St) features performing artists, visual artists, live music, food and children’s activities. noon-11pm.

actors and singers and more. Free to attend; donations accepted. 2-6pm. okshakes.org

SEPT. 28

Mesta Festa at Perle Mesta Park (1900 N Shartel Ave) features live music, family activities, sand volleyball, local artists and pop-up booths. Benefits the Mesta Park Neighborhood Association. Free to attend; beer garden wristbands, $25. noon-6pm. mestapark.org

Scan the QR code to purchase tickets online. October 23 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Calendar of Events

Pumpkin patches in the metro

SEPT. 5-OCT. 31

The Pumpkin Stand (1427 S Broadway, Edmond & 3300 W Britton, OKC) features a variety of pumpkins and gourds for sale. 10am-7pm. thestandok.com

SEPT. 19-NOV.2

Sunshine Shelly’s Pumpkin Patch (7110 N Harrison, Shawnee) features pumpkins and ornamental gourds for sale, a corn maze, hayrides, kiddie train, corn cannon, petting zoo, yard games, picnic areas and more. $7; kids (1 & under), free. Some activities require an additional fee. No admission required to pick pumpkins. See website for hours. facebook.com/sunshineshellys

SEPT. 19-NOV. 9

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch (720 Henney Rd, Arcadia) features pony rides, mazes, hayrides, petting zoo, games and more. $13; kids (3-11), $11, kids (2 & under), free. Some activities require an additional fee. WednesdayFriday, 1pm-dark; Saturday, 10am-dark; Sunday, noon-dark. parkhurstranch.com

SEPT. 20-NOV. 8

Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western) features hayrides, a pumpkin patch, corn maze and fun fall activities. Some activities may require additional fees. $19.95 & up; kids (2 & under), free. See website for hours. orrfamilyfarm.com

SEPT. 25-NOV. 2

Pumpkin Patch at Chester’s Party Barn & Farm (5201 Cimarron Rd, Piedmont) features a petting zoo (zoo food sold separately), giant slides & playground area, pony rides (75-pound weight limit), hayrides, a mystery maze, barnyard games, pumpkin chunkin’ and more, plus live entertainment and face painting (sold separately) on the weekends. Admission includes one pumpkin pie pumpkin per paid guest while supplies last. Ages 2-10, $13 + tax; ages 11-64, $7 + tax; 1 & under and seniors ages 65 & up, free; TuesdaySaturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. chesterspartybarn.fun

SEPT. 27-OCT. 26

Pumpkin Patch at Cross Timbers Christmas Tree Farm (2161 Harrison Ave, Harrah) features pumpkins, fall décor, photo opportunities, a haystack slide, farm animals and a barrel train. Prices vary. Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. crosstimberschristmastrees.com

LATE SEPTEMBER-OCT. 31

The Farm at Lakeview Market (9025 N Overholser Dr, Yukon) features pumpkins, gourds and other fresh produce, plus pop-up vendors, inflatables, petting zoo, yard games, kids barrel train rides (weekends only) and more. $10 wristband for kids. 10:30am-7pm. lakeviewmarketyukon.com/the-farm

OCT. 3-19

Wings Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch at Wings Special Needs Community (1349 E Wilshire Blvd) features a petting zoo, yard games, hayrides, inflatables, photo opportunities and pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, plus other fall décor for sale. $8; family 4-pack, $25; kids (2 & under), free. Friday & Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. wingsok.org/festival

OCT. 3-26

Pumpkinville at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features imaginative displays, hand-crafted games, fall-themed activities, local vendors and unlimited rides on Mo’s Carousel. This year’s theme celebrates the wonder of museums around the world. $9; members & kids (2 & under), free. Sunday, Monday & Thursday, 10am-5pm; Friday & Saturday, 10am-8pm; Tuesday & Wednesday, closed. myriadgardens.org

PHOTOS BY JESSE EDGAR

OCT. 4-NOV. 1

Pumpkin Patch at Walnut Woods (5217 W Simmons Rd, Edmond) features pumpkins for purchase, a maze, yard games, zip line, slingshot, hayrides, a petting zoo, giant slides, horse rides (additional charge) and more. $8; seniors (65 & up) & kids (2 & under), free. Saturday & Sunday, 10am-5pm. visitwalnutwoods.com

Fall festivals worth the drive

SEPT. 13

Cherokee Strip Days in downtown Enid (210 Kenwood Blvd, Enid) features food, arts & crafts show, live entertainment, parade and more. Free to attend. 9am1:30pm. enidchamber.com

SEPT. 18-20

Pioneer Day Festival at Skiatook Central Park (Hwy 20 & S Locust, Skiatook) features a parade, carnival rides, arts & crafts vendors, live music, food trucks, fishing derby, car show and more. Free to attend. See website for schedule. skiatookchamber.com

SEPT. 19-20

Chalk It Up Art Festival in downtown Broken Arrow (1st & Main St, Broken Arrow) features a chalk art competition, live music, street performers and more. Free to attend. Friday, 5-8:30pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm. arts302.com/ chalkitup

SEPT. 25-OCT. 5

Tulsa State Fair at Expo Square (415 E 21st St, Tulsa) features carnival rides, concerts, creative arts, food, livestock competitions and more. Adults, $15; military, seniors & kids (5-12), $10; kids (under 5), free. See website for hours. tulsastatefair.com

SEPT. 26-27

Rock Island Arts Festival at Rock Island Depot (100 Chickasha Ave, Chickasha) features fine art displays, crafters booths, live music and entertainment, as well as activities for kids and more. Free to attend. Friday & Saturday, 10am-9pm. rockislandartsfestival.org

OCT. 11

Dewey Western Heritage Day at Tom Mix Museum (721 N Delaware St, Dewey) features a parade of longhorn cattle, stagecoaches and trick roping, plus vendors, music, bounce houses, a petting zoo, a Western market, food trucks and more. Free to attend. 10am-11pm. cityofdewey.com

OCT. 17-19

Robbers Cave Fall Festival at Robbers Cave State Park (4575 NW 102th Ave, Wilburton) features arts & crafts, classic car show, food, carnival rides, entertainment and more. Friday & Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 9am-3pm. originalfallfestivalatrobberscave.com

OCT. 25

Sorghum Festival at Seminole Nation Museum (524 S Wewoka Ave, Wewoka) features historic re-enactors, Native

American foods, children’s crafts, live entertainment and pioneer and Native American living demonstrations. Free to attend. See website for schedule. seminolenationmuseum.org/sorghum-festival

NOV. 8

SkasdiCon at Chota Conference Center at Cherokee Casino (3307 Seven Clans Ave, Tahlequah) features Indigenous artists and creators, panel discussions, film screenings and a family-friendly cosplay competition. Free to attend. 10am-6pm. skasdicon.com

PHOTO BY CALEB RICKETTS

YOUR FAMILY DESERVES A

404 SU ITES • 13 FOOD & BEVER AGE OUT L ET S • BE ACH • SPA • ARCAD E LASER TAG • SPO RT S SI MU LATORS • ME ET INGS & EVENT S

months.

OKANA Beach open during summer

Date night ideas

WEDNESDAYS IN SEPTEMBER

Oklahoma’s Credit Union Moonlight Movies at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features outdoor screenings of popular date night movies. Sept. 3 - 50 First Dates; Sept. 10 - Love & Basketball, Sept. 17 - Sweet Home Alabama. 6-10pm. myriadgardens.org

SEPT. 6

FAM Night Market at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features art, food, shopping and cultural demonstrations. Free to attend; ticket required. 6-10pm. famok.org

SEPT. 9-14

OKC Broadway presents Kimberly Akimbo at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave). The new musical, about growing up and growing old, follows 16-year-old Kimberly as she navigates family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush and possible felony charges. Best suited for ages 13 & up. $35 & up. Tuesday-Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2 & 7:30pm; Sunday, 1:30 & 7pm. okcbroadway.com

SEPT. 12

Spirit Labs at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features hands-on science experiences with curated pours. September’s theme is The Agave Experiment. For ages 21 & up. $80; VIP, $100. 7-9pm. Also held: Oct. 3 - The Barrel Formula. sciencemuseumok.org

SEPT. 12-28

Intimate Apparel at Carpenter Square Theatre (1009 W Reno Ave) features the story of Esther, a Black seamstress living in New York City in 1905. Best suited for ages 14 & up. $30. Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Thursday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. carpentersquare.com

SEPT. 27

Yesterday - The Las Vegas Beatles Tribute at Oklahoma City Community College Bruce Owen Theater (7777 S May Ave) features one of the hottest Beatles tribute bands, personally endorsed by Sir Paul McCartney. $45. 2 & 7:30 pm. occc.edu/tickets

OCT. 5

Farm Girl Fair at Sandy River Ranch (3500 NW 72nd Ave, Norman) features an outdoor artisan market with food, traditional

fair activities, live music and more. 13 & up, $10; 12 & under, free. 11am-4pm. farmgirlfair.com

OCT. 9-19

The Lion in Winter at Oklahoma Shakespeare (2920 Paseo) features a modern-day classic about the Plantagenet family, who are locked in a free-for-all of competing ambitions to inherit a kingdom. $55.23; students (25 & under), $44.64. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. okshakes.org

OCT. 18

Guthrie Wine Festival in downtown Guthrie (211 E Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie) features a family-friendly event with wine, beer, crafts, home décor, art, food and more. Free to attend. 9am-5pm. facebook.com/HeventsLLC

Adult N.I.T.E. (Night in the Exhibits) at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features an adults-only evening with trivia, crafts, a scavenger hunt and more. Late 90s to early 2000s attire encouraged. Preregister. For ages 18 & up. $40; members, $32. 6:30-9:30pm. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

Things to do in October

OCT. 2

KFOR 4Warn Storm School at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features an engaging, interactive school program that dives into the wonders of weather with a KFOR 4Warn Storm Team meteorologist. Free with admission. 10am. sciencemuseumok.org

OCT. 3

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District (W 30th & 27th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features special themed exhibits, guest artists and a variety of live entertainment. 6-9pm. thepaseo.org

OCT. 3-4

Asian Night Market Festival at Military Park (1200 NW 25th St) features food vendors, cultural demonstrations, a fashion show, live music and kids activities. Free to attend. 5-11pm. asiandistrictok.com/anmf Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ in Concert at Civic Center Music

Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a live symphony orchestra performing John Williams’ unforgettable score set to the movie. $61 & up. Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2pm. okcciviccenter.com

OCT. 3-5

Oklahoma Regatta Festival at RIVERSPORT OKC (725 S Lincoln Blvd) features rowing, kayaking, dragon boating, whitewater rafting and fireworks. Free to attend; parking, $10. See website for schedule. riversportokc.org

OCT.

4

Oklahoma Czech Festival at Yukon Czech Hall (205 N Czech Rd, Yukon) features a parade, polka music, dancing, carnival rides, a petting zoo, craft show, Czech food and more. Free to attend. 8am-5pm. czechfestivaloklahoma.com

A Child’s World 5K at Ruby Grant Park (3110 W Franklin Rd, Norman) features a 5k supporting awareness of the importance of

early childhood education. Benefits Crossroads Youth & Family Services. $15 & up. 9am. crossroadsyfs.org/childsworld5k

Harvest Fest in the Farmers Market District (311 S Klein Ave) features an outdoor market with local goods and unique gifts, plus a kids zone. Free to attend. 10am-4pm. okcfmd.com

OCT. 4-5

Tenttober at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features an overnight park camping event with fishing, outdoor games, s’mores and an outdoor movie. Preregister; space is limited. $85 per campsite; tent rental, $25 (4-person tent). 2pm-10am. edmondparks.com

OCT. 5

DogFest at Scissortail Park (300 Park Ave) features a family- and dog-friendly festival with music, fun games & activities, vendors and more. Free to attend; fundraising encouraged. 11am-2pm. facebook.com/caninecompanions

Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day

OCT. 13

Indigenous Peoples Day at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features cultural performances, educational demonstrations, dancing exhibitions, film screenings, a hand drum contest, live music, stickball games, food trucks and more. Free to attend; discounted gallery admission, $5. 10am-4pm. famok.org

OCT. 18

FREE Red Earth FallFest at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features an art market and youth Pow Wow. 10am-5pm. redearth.org

Sensational Kids has been providing outstanding service to the community for over 20 years. We offer quality pediatric occupational, physical, feeding and speech-language therapies.

Calendar of Events

OCT. 9-11

Schedule an evaluation! 405-840-1686

Why choose Sensational Kids?

• 20+ years of trusted service

• Specialized therapy for every need

• A collaborative team approach to care

• 4 convenient locations across the metro

Banjo Fest at American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan Ave) features live performances, jam sessions, workshops, a singalong party and more. Prices vary. See website for schedule. americanbanjomuseum.com

OCT. 11

Fall Fest at McLoud Veterans Memorial Park (520 S 8th St, McLoud) features live music, food trucks, craft vendors, face painting, inflatables, a tractor show, pumpkin stand and more. Free to attend. 11am-5pm. mcloudchamber.com

FREE Second Saturday at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features art-making, performances and gallery adventures for visitors of all ages. October’s theme is InflataForms. 1-4pm. oklahomacontemporary.org

OCT. 11-12

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features monster truck competitions and battles. Pre-show party lets fans meet drivers and see popular monster trucks up close. $10 & up. Saturday, 12:30 & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2:30pm. paycomcenter.com

OCT. 13

Junior Forensics at SKELETONS Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane Rd) features hands-on activities to learn how to

read features of the human skull to determine types of physical trauma, illness and more. Best suited for ages 12 & up. $25. 11am & 3pm. skeletonmuseum.com

OCT. 15-17

FREE Fall Y’all Family Fun at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features complimentary museum admission, plus fall-themed crafts, story time, games and more. Recommended for ages 3-8. 10am-2pm. oklahomahof.com

OCT. 17

Haunted Hoops at Scissortail Park (301 SW 11th St) features a 3v3 basketball tournament. Preregister to play; spectators welcome. Price TBA. Time TBA. scissortailpark.org

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light

The Night at Scissortail Park (801 S Robinson Ave) features a 1-mile awareness walk, activities for kids, live music and food trucks. Preregister. Free to attend; fundraising encouraged. 5:30-8:30pm. lightthenight.org/events/oklahoma-city

OCT. 17-19

FREE Arcadia Route 66 Neonfest at Arcadia Homestead (13100 E Old Hwy 66, Arcadia) features neon displays, neon campfires, a film festival and more. Free to attend. See website for schedule. facebook.com/ArcadiaNeonFest

Calendar of Events

OCT. 18

Spooky Sprint at Draper Park (8301 SE 104th St) features a Halloween-themed 5k, 10k, 1 mile, kids dash and half marathon. $17-$52. 8am. eventvesta.com/events/110000/t/tickets

FREE Stockyards Stampede in Stockyards City (S Agnew Ave) features a longhorn parade, authentic chuckwagons, live music, activities for kids, a Made in Oklahoma market and more. 10am-4pm. stockyardscity.org

Chisholm Trail Festival at Mollie Spencer Farm (1001 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon) features living history re-enactors, a variety of foods, live entertainment, vendors, activities for kids and more. Free to attend. 10am-5pm. yukonok.gov

FREE Uptown Outside in the Historic Uptown 23rd District (23rd St & Guernsey Ave to 24th St & Dewey Ave) features a block-party style event with food, music, art, vendor market and activities for kids. 4-10pm. uptown23rd.com

FREE Heard on Hurd Street Fest in downtown Edmond (Broadway Ave, 1st & Hurd, Edmond) features local food,

unique shopping and live music. 6-10pm. mycitizens.bank/heard-on-hurd

OCT. 19

Fall Harvest Fest at Delmar Gardens (1225 SW 2nd St) features seasonal foods and activities with a chili cook-off, local beer, live music, yard games and pumpkin decorating. All ages welcome. Adults, $35; youth (3-20), $20; kids (2 & under), free. 2-5pm. okcbeautiful.com

OCT. 23-25

Southern Plains Productions presents Dead as a Dodo at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St). The family-friendly puppet musical explores themes of change, connection and what it means to live in a time of unprecedented technology. Best suited for ages 7 & up. $20. Thursday & Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2 & 7:30pm. sppokc.org

OCT. 24

Fourth Friday Block Party in the West Village District (W Sheridan Ave) features a block party with market vendors, live music,

art exhibits, open houses and giveaways from participating businesses. 5-10pm. westvillageokc.com

OCT 25

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare’s Dogtober at Earlywine Park (3033 SW 119th St) features a shelter dog walk, expert resources, low-cost services, food trucks and more. Free to attend. 10am-2pm. facebook.com/OKCanimalwelfare

FREE Folklife Festival at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features food vendors, musical performers, crafts and educational activities. 10am-3pm. okhistory.org

FREE Midtown Walkabout in the Midtown District (Robinson Ave) features special promotions, pop-up activities and more. 11am-5pm. midtownokc.com/walkabout

FREE Fall Festival in downtown Bethany (NW 39th Expressway & College St, Bethany) features trunk-or-treating, games, prizes and more. 5-8pm. facebook.com/ bethanymainstreetmerchants

OCTOBER 3-26, 2025

Monday, Thursday & Sunday: 10am-5pm Friday & Saturday: 10am-8pm (Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)

NEW THIS YEAR!

Purchase timed-entry tickets in advance online at myriadgardens.org beginning September 3

$9 per person FREE for children 2 and under FREE for Myriad Gardens Members with timed-entry reservations. Make your reservation online beginning September 3.

Pumpkinville is presented by OG&E, and supported by Devon Energy, the E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, Express Employment International, Bank of Oklahoma, Inasmuch Foundation, Midtown Renaissance, Tinker Federal Credit Union, MetroFamily Magazine, and Renewal by Andersen.

Calendar of Events

Halloween fun

OCT. 4-26

Haunt the Zoo at OKC Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) features trick-ortreating and photo opportunities along a festive zoo trail. Tickets are required in addition to zoo admission and include 15 candy tents and 14 photo stops. Family-friendly costumes welcome. Treat bags: $10; members, $9. Saturday & Sunday, 9am-4pm. okczoo.org

OCT. 11

Curiousiday - Spooktacular at the Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features hands-on activities, costume contests and a few creepy surprises. Free with admission. 10am-4pm. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

OCT. 16

FREE Haunt the Harn at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features an outdoor trick-or-treating event with old-fashioned games and crafts. Friendly costumes are encouraged. Free to attend; tickets are required. 6:30-8:30pm. harnhomestead.com

OCT. 23

HalloWest at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features trick-or-treating, crafts, western dancing and more. Ticket price TBA; kids (12 & under), free. 5:30-8pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org

OCT. 23-30

Storybook Forest at Arcadia Lake’s Spring Creek Park (7200 E 15th St, Edmond) features a fun, not-scary trail filled with roaming characters, treats, carnival games, hayride, campfire, concessions and story time. All tickets must be purchased online in advance. $15 per child; $5 per adult. 5:30-8:30pm. storybookforestok.com

OCT. 24

Mummy & Son Masquerade at Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main St, Yukon) features a fun evening of contests, spooky music, dancing and more. Preregister. $5. 6-8pm. yukonok.gov

OCT. 24-25

Halloween at Choctaw Creek Park (2001 N Harper, Choctaw) features food, vendors, candy, games, contests, festive activities, a haunted trail and more. Prices vary. 6-11pm. mychoctaw.org

OCT. 25

Halloween on the Green at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St) features sugar skull decorating and other crafts, plus a trick-ortreat trail with fairy tale characters. Preregister. Best suited for ages 11 & under. $5. 9am-noon. okc.gov/parks

FREE Trick-or-Treat Event at DICK’S House of Sport (13145 N Penn Ave) features trick-or-treating stations with candy and other giveaways. All ages welcome. Costumes encouraged. 1-4pm. stores.dickssportinggoods. com/ok/oklahoma-city/1592

OCT. 25-26

Halloween Train at the Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd) features a themed train ride, candy, scavenger hunt, mini golf, costume contest and more. Costumes should be family-friendly. 13 & up, $15; kids (3-12), $8; kids (under 3), free. Check website for schedule. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

Calendar of Events

Halloween fun, continued

OCT. 26

FREE Brick-or-Treat in Bricktown (Reno Ave & Mickey Mantle Dr) features trick-or-treating at local businesses, roaming characters, photo ops and more. Trick-or-treaters must be under the age of 14 and in costume or with a guardian to receive candy and giveaways. 1-4pm. welcometobricktown.com/brick-or-treat

OCT. 27

FREE Adaptive Trunk-or-Treat at Southern Oaks Recreation Center (400 SW 66th St) features an inclusive trunk-or-treat designed for children with special needs. Preregister. 6:30-8pm. okc.gov/parks

OCT. 31

FREE Haunt the Hill at Calle Dos Cinco

Historic Capitol Hill (SW 25th St, Hudson to Robinson Ave) features games, trunk-ortreating and more. Costumes encouraged. 5-7pm. historiccapitolhill.com

FREE Halloween Harvest at OKC Parks Community Centers (various locations) features trick-or-treating, interactive games, seasonal crafts and more. 5-8pm. okc.gov/parks

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS OCT. 4-26 | 9 A.M. – 4 P.M.

FRIDAY NIGHT OCT. 31 FROM 6 – 9.P.M. (ZOOFRIENDS MEMBERS ONLY)

BUY AT OKCZOO.ORG OR SCAN HERE

Calendar of Events

November sneak peek

NOV. 1

Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main St, Yukon) features over 45 different booths from across the state selling candles, wood crafts, home décor and more, as well as a bake sale benefiting Friends of the Park. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. yukonok.gov

NOV. 2

OKC Festival de Vida y Muerte Day of the Dead Celebration at Scissortail Park (415 S Robinson Ave) features interactive activities, community ofrendas, authentic food, cultural market, art, music, dancing and more. Free to attend. noon-8pm. facebook. com/okcfestivaldevidaymuerte

PHOTO BY TANGO PR

NOV. 8

MetroFamily’s Geekapalooza: A STEAM Festival for Kids at Rose State College (1910 Hudiburg Dr, Midwest City) features robotics demonstrations, a planetarium, musical performers and hands-on activities including drones and geode smashing, plus expo booths hosted by local leaders about the science of flight, coding, geoscience and more. $5 in advance, $8 at the door; adults & kids (under 2), free. 10am-2:30pm. metrofamilymagazine.com/geekapalooza

NOV. 23

FREE Admission Day at Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum (1714 W Wrangler Blvd, Seminole). Enjoy complimentary museum admission all day. 1-5pm. jasminemoran.com

and a scavenger hunt contest with grand prizes!

Saturday, Nov. 8

Register in advance and save! For kids 2-17, tickets are $5 in advance or $8 at the door. Adults and kids under 2 are free. Register at metrofamilymagazine.com/geekapalooza. 

10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Rose State College Student Union 1910 Hudiburg Drive, Midwest City

Join MetroFamily for the biggest STEAM festival of the year! Geekapalooza brings families together to experience how science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) are fun for everyone. Through hands-on projects and expo booths hosted by local organizations, learn about robotics, the science of flight, coding, geoscience and much more. Plus, enjoy drones, geode smashing, a portable planetarium, food trucks and a scavenger hunt with grand prizes.

Register in advance and save! For kids 2-17, tickets are $5 in advance or $8 at the door. Adults and kids under 2 are free.  Register at metrofamilymagazine.com/ geekapalooza

Healthy Families Guide

concerns, family health and well-being always top the list, but that means more than just checkups and exercise. Today’s families are looking for help navigating everything from sleep and nutrition to digital safety, mental wellness and pelvic health.

That’s why we’ve gathered expert advice and practical insights in this year’s Healthy Families Guide — your go-to resource for helping your family thrive, in body and mind, this season and beyond.

Find even more family health resources at metrofamilymagazine.com/healthyfamilies-guide 

PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Beyond Books How Metro Libraries support healthy communities

The Metropolitan Library System offers families a variety of ways to build healthier, more active lives. Children’s Services Manager Kristin Williamson describes libraries as community hubs that support whole family wellness. Williamson says families can turn to their Metro Library branch for hands-on cooking classes, fitness programs and mental health resources.

How do local libraries help build healthy families?

For anyone looking to jumpstart their journey toward better health, Metro Libraries provide free and accessible resources for all ages. To get moving, options include Wiggly Wednesdays for babies and toddlers, kids and family yoga, tai chi for adults and much more.

For families seeking nutrition advice and meal inspiration, Metro Libraries offers access to a host of databases such as A to Z American, with more than 2,000 regional and international recipes, and A to Z World Food, featuring thousands of global recipes.

For a more hands-on experience, cooking classes are available for kids, teens and adults. Kids Café and Steam Team feed both bellies and brains, and Dash Cooking for Teens teaches teenagers to cook quick, healthy meals. Parents can also check out a variety of classes that help families incorporate healthier food choices (Smart Kids, Smart Nutrition), drink more water with flavor infusion (Infuse Your Moves) and develop a more adventurous palate (Super Tasters).

How does the library support family mental health?

A healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body. Metro Libraries offer families access to numerous mental health resources, as well as classes designed to promote self-care, including sound bath meditation, mindfulness journaling and teen chats on healthy relationships, along with family kindness challenges.

Is This Normal? (Spoiler: It’s Not)

Solutions for common pelvic health issues

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Brooke Conkin leads Conkin Pelvic Health in Edmond, treating a wide range of pelvic conditions in adults and children. Drawing on her extensive training, she explains why a healthy pelvic floor matters.

Why is pelvic health important?

The pelvic floor connects the spine and legs, supports organs and works with core muscles to maintain posture and control abdominal pressure. Stress, childbirth, poor alignment or strain from activities like prolonged sitting, running or lifting can lead to tension and pain. In children, pelvic issues may show up as potty training struggles or bedwetting.

Learn more

Whether you’re seeking health and wellness tips, wanting to learn a new skill or find a new favorite book, your local library branch can help.

Learn more about the Metropolitan Library System at metrolibrary.org

SPONSORED BY

More than 20/20

Ensuring your child’s success through eye exams

1 in every 4 children has a vision problem that requires treatment

ean McGee Eye Institute has served Oklahoma families for 50 years. Its highly skilled team provides comprehensive eye care for the entire family, including infants, children, teens and adults. Pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Maria Lim shares why early eye exams are key.

Why is vision important for children as they go back to school?

Children depend on their vision more as they advance in school. They have to read smaller text and see more detail, making vision increasingly crucial for learning.

What can new patients expect at Conkin Pelvic Health?

New patients receive a full-body evaluation and personalized care plan. Schedule a free 15-minute discovery call to see if therapy is right for you.

For more details, visit conkinpelvichealth.com

SPONSORED BY

What is the benefit of early diagnosis and treatment for children’s vision problems?

Treatments for children’s vision problems are very effective. Early diagnosis is key. The younger the treatment begins, the better the lifetime success.

To learn more, visit dmei.org

SPONSORED BY

Fueling Student Success

Nutritious, sensory-friendly meals help students thrive in and out of the classroom

How are you elevating school meals through your culinary experience?

Trinity School at Edgemere is Oklahoma City’s only school solely dedicated to serving children with learning differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, auditory and sensory processing issues, anxiety and developmental or intellectual delays. The K through 12 program offers a traditional school environment with individualized instruction to help students reach their full academic and social potential.

Many of Trinity’s students face sensory processing challenges that make trying new foods or eating balanced meals difficult. Trinity has made nutrition a priority to support their overall health and learning readiness.

SPONSORED BY

Five-star cuisine meets school cafeteria

Mackenzie Bentley, Trinity’s chef and head of child nutrition, is passionate about presenting students with local, nutritious fare in positive and creative ways. Her resume includes a culinary apprenticeship at The Coach House in Oklahoma City, working at Michelinstarred Komi in Washington, D.C. and serving as executive chef at restaurants in Oklahoma City. She’s also cultivated farm-to-table dining experiences in Colorado and worked with a nonprofit serving orphans in Africa.

My knowledge of menu development and farm-to-table meal prep has guided me as I’ve worked to create diverse and appealing dishes. I’m passionate about supporting local meat and produce farmers and strive to include as much fresh and scratch-made ingredients as I can.

How do you serve meals to accommodate sensory sensitivities?

My approach to deconstructing meals — serving components separately and explaining each option — addresses common sensory sensitivities, making mealtime less stressful and more inviting for students who might otherwise avoid unfamiliar foods. I’ll have a protein like chicken or a carbohydrate like pasta and each ingredient will be served alone. Then, I’ll provide an array of accouterments with different sauces and flavorful sides. I always have a variety of fruit available as well.

As the kids go through the service line, I try to explain what each item is to build interest and allow them freedom to choose what they want, while gently encouraging them to try something new. As I’ve developed relationships with students, I’ve seen them step out of their comfort zones. I’ve had so many parents be amazed at what their children have added to their diet — increasing the food options they eat at home and even becoming more adventurous when ordering at restaurants.

While it can be a long process and requires patience and understanding, I believe expanding a student’s flavor and texture palate expands their world.

What does the future of nutrition look like at Trinity?

I’m very excited that Trinity School remains committed to providing fresh and nutritious meals. Our recent grant from Whole Foods has allowed us to create a school garden where kids can have hands-on experiences harvesting produce that we use in the kitchen. It’s these opportunities that help teach kids about food and encourage a future of healthy food choices.

Trinity helps students with learning differences overcome sensory barriers to nutrition — supporting not only their physical health but their confidence and independence.

Learn more at trinityschoolokc.org

MACKENZIE BENTLEY, TRINITY’S CHEF AND HEAD OF CHILD NUTRITION

Real Talk about Robots

Helping kids navigate AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) has drastically changed today’s technological landscape. Often running behind the scenes, AI impacts the consumer experience across many industries. As AI continues to progress in its sophistication, application and accessibility, families are navigating yet another new frontier that carries both risks and rewards for today’s youth.

Teaching your kids about AI

“Artificial intelligence has been around for a long time but has reached a tipping point where it has moved from the background to the forefront of day-to-day life,” says Jeremy Waller, a father of four and director of consulting services and AI with Oklahoma City’s Phase 2, a custom software development company. “My kids won’t remember a world that didn’t have computers you could talk to. As parents, we have to think about how we can equip our kids to use these tools safely and effectively.”

A chatbot, as defined by IBM, is a computer program that simulates human conversation with an end user, using large language models (LLM) to generate responses. Understanding how these tools function is the first step in helping families recognize the dangers of AI.

“It feels like you’re talking to a person, but it’s a computer,” says Waller. “It’s important for kids to understand that even though the responses sound friendly, it’s not a real person or friend. As adults, we can struggle with recognizing when something is AIgenerated, so it’s even more difficult for kids with less experience to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not.

“These models are designed to be agreeable and helpful to a fault. Because of this, the models can provide false information and encourage kids to do something wrong. The safeguards in place aren’t 100% successful, and sadly there have been stories of kids who have hurt themselves or others because of interactions with this technology.”

BY REBECCA FAST

supporting greater learning opportunities and fostering more creativity.

“Not only does AI offer access to a world of information, it allows it to be presented in a way that can be consumed easily, allowing for language differences, different learning styles and could impact literacy gaps,” says Waller. “With these technologies, there is a much more direct line between our imagination and the end result. If we can imagine it, we can use these technologies to create really fantastic things.”

From toys to tools: helping kids understand AI

• Talk about AI with your kids. Offer age-appropriate examples such as AI-powered toys, games and assistants such as Alexa or Siri.

• Encourage kids to consider the pros and cons of AI and how it can affect the way they learn.

• Explore AI chatbots together. Discuss responses to help kids use AI as a safe and responsible tool.

Building digital literacy and critical thinking skills

When AI generates a response or output that is inaccurate, misleading or illogical, it’s called a hallucination. And for end users, a.k.a. humans, it’s our job to recognize these hallucinations as false information.

“We can’t blindly trust the technology,” says Waller. “We have to teach ourselves and our kids to ask questions. There’s no expectation for parents to be AI experts, but instead try to be engaged partners in their child’s digital education. This was true when we were learning how to use computers, the internet and smartphones. We shouldn’t be afraid of technology but rather cautious and willing to learn alongside our kids.”

With more accessible AI, Waller believes it can be a positive accelerator in many areas,

Teaching kids about AI early, he says, helps them become responsible digital citizens who can spot risks and maximize creative potential.

AI’s impact on education

With the rise of AI, there has been debate around its use in education. Benefits include more personalized and adaptive learning experiences, improved accessibility and greater administrative efficiency. Potential risks range from data privacy concerns to an over-reliance that may hinder critical thinking skills.

Eric Hileman, executive director of Information Technology Services (ITS) for Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS), says facilitating the use of AI in education encompasses multiple areas, including curriculum, legal, educational technology and more.

“At OKCPS, we’ve created an advisory panel and adopted strategies that allow the use of AI in an ethical, safe and productive manner built around teaching students how to use these technologies responsibly,” says Hileman.

He says excitement around AI in education stems from its possibilities to enhance learning opportunities, from helping solve problems, improving writing skills and serving as a personal tutor for differentiated instruction on a broad scale. However, he emphasizes that digital literacy skills are essential to safely and effectively using AI.

“If you’re outsourcing your cognitive load and don’t critically think about the content it’s producing, then you’re not developing those skills,” says Hileman. “The four Cs of 21st-century skills — collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity — still apply. Students may use AI as a brainstorming tool, but they still need to follow up with their own reflection and verify the accuracy of the information they’ve been given.”

Hileman encourages parents to try these AI models and discuss their findings with their kids.

“Look at it from a kid’s lens and think about what they might look up or be interested in,” says Hileman. “Teaching our kids how to safely use AI and engaging in conversations around this technology is one of the most important things we can do.”

AI as a tool for creativity and inclusion

Dr. Laura Dumin, an English professor, director of the Technical Writing B.A. program and AI campus coordinator at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, shares the concern that students should use AI to support learning experiences, not replace them.

“Students need to consider what they’re gaining and what they’re losing by using AI,” says Dumin. “Are they using it to get better at something or as a crutch or way to avoid doing something? If a student is using AI to help provide an outline or structure for a report, then it’s helping them complete a task.

As adults, we can struggle with recognizing when something is AI-generated, so it’s even more difficult for kids with less experience to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not.

Jeremy Waller

“However, if they’re needing to write a history paper and don’t want to read about it, then they’re missing that learning opportunity. I think there’s a risk of students not realizing what they’re losing by not using their own creativity to build something.”

Dumin, who studies and speaks on how generative AI is impacting education, encourages her students to use AI as a collaborative tool.

The J D McCarty Center serves children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 21. Call today to learn more about our programs!

Inpatient and outpatient services, including physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and ABA therapy Specialized clinics Summer camp Family resources Outreach programs

“I’ve found that students who struggle with anxiety when starting a project can sit down within one of these large language models and successfully brainstorm on a topic to get started,” says Dumin. “As someone who identifies as neurodiverse, I use Claude AI to assist in creating topic outlines that help me better understand societal and audience expectations, while also identifying discussion areas I need to strengthen or include.”

Even as AI technologies continue advancing, Dumin believes that critical thinking, verified research and independent creativity will remain essential skills.

“Despite AI’s capabilities, we have to keep our brains on and stay actively engaged to question and analyze AI’s output, not accept it at face value,” says Dumin.

Exploring these tools together not only builds digital literacy but also creates opportunities to talk openly about the dangers of AI, including misinformation, overreliance and privacy risks. These shared experiences empower kids to safely navigate technology with greater awareness and confidence.

can pelvic floor

Physical Therapy help ease?

Pregnancy & Postpartum issues or concerns

Leaking urine with coughing, sneezing, running, jumping

Pain or discomfort with intercourse

Bowel issues: constipation, leaking stool

Tailbone pain and Sciatica

Pelvic, abdominal, low back, and hip pain

Prolapse of pelvic organs: feeling of “falling out” or heaviness

Diastasis Recti: abdominal seperation

Questions? Contact us to schedule a free 15-min discovery call to see if pelvic floor PT is right for you!

Dr. Kenni Cornelson Ewald Cornelson Physical Therapy Cornelsonpt.com 405-455-8668 919 S Bryant, Edmond 73034

Busy Nights, Healthy Bites

Fuel your family with easy recipes & snacks

BY UMO CALLINS. PHOTOS BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY.

Ifyour household is anything like mine, you’re constantly looking for meals that are quick to make, easy to customize and — most importantly — nutritious.

My family of five is very active with work, school and extracurricular activities. We all have various food preferences and fueling needs, so I’m not only thinking about what is simple and easy, but also what will keep us satiated.

I focus on low-lift, well-balanced meals made with the help of time-saving tools like the air fryer, Instant Pot and oven. As long as a meal includes a protein, some carbohydrates and colorful fruits or vegetables, we are good to go!

Snacks matter, too

Snack planning is just as important as meal planning. Consuming snacks that have a balance of nutrients, such as protein, fiber, carbohydrates and healthy fats, helps meet nutrition needs and ensures your energy levels are stable throughout the day. Snacks for my family consist of a combination of whole foods and ready-made options to ensure all our needs are met.

As a mom, wife and co-owner of a sports performance and nutrition business, I often share this tip with the families and athletes I work with: athletes need fast-digesting carbohydrates — like bananas, pretzels or applesauce — prior to performance for energy. Afterward, they need to refuel with carbs and proteins to ensure optimal performance and recovery.

For my kids, who are athletes themselves, I gather a variety of non-perishable snacks to keep in our bags and in the car. (Pro tip: If storing in the car when it’s hot outside, use a refrigerated bag.)

Now, let’s dive in to some of my favorite recipes!

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajita Bowls

These bowls are easy to prepare and customize, plus they are packed with lean protein, color and fiber!

INGREDIENTS

• 2-3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed)

• 2-3 bell peppers (any color), sliced

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa

• Optional toppings: salsa, shredded cheese, avocado, Greek yogurt

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Toss sliced peppers and onions with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper.

3. Spread veggies on a sheet pan, place in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

4. Add shredded rotisserie chicken directly to the pan for the last 5 minutes to warm and absorb the seasonings.

5. Assemble bowls by layering rice, roasted veggies, chicken and desired toppings.

�� Time-saving tip: Use pre-sliced fajita veggies and microwaveable rice to prepare this meal in under 20 minutes!

Turkey & Cheese Flatbread Melts

This is a huge hit in my household because it’s easy to make and the kids can get involved in the preparation. Plus, this meal is warm, satisfying, versatile and ready in under 15 minutes!

INGREDIENTS

• Pre-sliced deli turkey

• Whole grain or naan flatbread

• Sliced cheese (cheddar is our go-to)

• Optional toppings: baby spinach, tomatoes

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Layer turkey, cheese and veggies on flatbread.

2. Bake or toast at 375°F for 5-8 minutes until melty.

3. Slice and serve with fruit and/or salad.

�� Time-saving tip: Grab a salad kit for an easy side.

The Official Medical Spa of Miss Oklahoma and Miss Oklahoma’s Teen

As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to focus on your skin’s health. Whether you’re ready to reverse sun damage, or simply wanting to refresh your complexion before the holidays, our team at Radiance Medical Aesthetics is ready to help you achieve radiant skin with personalized treatments that deliver beautiful, natural results. Backed by a Board-Certified Dermatologist, Radiance is elevating the standard of aesthetic medicine in Oklahoma. With advanced injectables, cutting-edge laser procedures, and industry-leading facial treatments, your skin’s health is our top priority.

Smart Snacks

Our family’s go-to, grab-and-go picks include:

• Applesauce and fruit pouches

• Fresh, dried and freeze-dried fruit

• Fruit leather

• Individually packaged pickles

• Pretzels

• Rice cakes

• Protein bars (Pro tip: look for at least 10g protein.)

• Meat sticks and jerky

• Greek yogurt parfaits

• Make-ahead snack boxes (pair nuts, fruit, cheese, etc.)

• Uncrustables

Having simple, easy meals and snack options like these on rotation helps the whole family feel and perform better. Happy fueling!

Editor’s note: Umo Callins, MS, RD/LD, CSSD, CPT, is a registered dietitian and fitness coach who specializes in wellness and sports. She owns and operates her private practice Well Rooted Health and Nutrition in Oklahoma City and co-owns 180Physique Athletics, a sports performance and sports nutrition business, with her husband, James.

Umo is the proud mother of three kids. Connect with her @sassy.sports.dietician.

Family Rules for the Digital World

Create a safety plan to protect your kids online

SPONSORED BY

From interactive games and chatbots to popular social media platforms, kids spend a significant amount of time online. For parents, monitoring your child’s online presence can feel overwhelming and complicated. To help navigate these challenges, Sandi Teel, cyber security instructor at MidDel Tech Center, offers her expertise on how to help kids stay safe online.

When should families start talking about online safety?

Educating your children about online safety should begin early with age-appropriate concepts. While parents may feel secure with certain parental controls and security settings, children should still be aware of the risks when interacting online. We want to teach our kids how to spot safety concerns, such as unsafe conversations, inappropriate images and digital scams.

Why do families need an online safety plan?

Most families have a set of house rules. The same concept should be applied to online activity. Call a family meeting and engage in open and honest communication about how everyone uses the internet — whether it’s playing games, researching for a school project or sharing on social media. Take the time to consider how information is used within each platform and create guidelines for what’s safe and unsafe to share. To help kids remember, make it a fun quiz or game.

How can we teach kids to protect their personal information online?

A critical concept for kids and teens to understand is Personally Identifiable Information (PII). In the world of cybersecurity, this refers to any information that can help identify, locate or contact a specific person. Oversharing risks related to PII include sharing passwords with friends, posting sensitive details (think travel plans, home addresses, driver’s licenses or work IDs) and not limiting your audience access by managing private and public settings.

It’s also important to review how you share your location — whether it’s through in-app location services or via social media posts featuring your family’s daily routine or in-home activities. Whether the social media post is made by a child or by a parent about their child, be mindful of sharing PII. For kids and teens, limiting social

media shares can be difficult, especially when many have aspirations of going viral or becoming an influencer. Instead, use their interests to discuss the pros and cons of an extensive online presence.

What

red flags should kids watch for online?

Children and teens are often impressionable and may be more susceptible to scams. Try to use real-world examples and ‘what-if’ scenarios to explain how a scam might work. For instance, grandma won’t be texting about unclaimed inheritance, and the appealing advertisement offering a free download might be malware. We want to teach kids how to spot suspicious communications while also promoting open family dialogue and consistent family safety guidelines.

How can kids turn cybersecurity into a career?

Cybersecurity is needed across all industries and on our personal devices as hackers become more sophisticated and invasive. As technologies advance, so does the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals. There are currently more than 3 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs worldwide. At Mid-Del Tech, our cybersecurity program aligns with industry standards to prepare students for CompTIA certifications in A+, Network+ and Security+.

Learn more about Mid-Del Tech Center’s specialized career programs at middeltech.com

SANDI TEEL, CYBER SECURITY INSTRUCTOR AT MID-DEL TECH CENTER, OFFERS TIPS TO HELP KIDS STAY SAFE ONLINE.

Teen Sleep Myths Busted

BY REBECCA FAST

Understanding shifting sleep cycles and how to support healthy habits during adolescence

Parents of young children often wonder if their kids will ever sleep past sunrise. Then, as children grow older and enter the adolescent and teenage years, their sleep habits change — sometimes drastically. While too little sleep might have been a worry in the past, too much sleep is now the concern, with parents asking if their teens are ever going to wake before noon.

What’s really happening with your teen’s sleep cycle?

To understand these changes in sleep patterns, Dr. Chee Yoon Bauer, a sleep medicine pediatrician at OU Health in Oklahoma City, explains that the body’s circadian rhythm can shift during early childhood and into adolescence.

“For children younger than 12 years old, their natural circadian rhythm gives them the tendency to want to go to sleep earlier in the evening and wake up earlier in the morning — think ‘crack of dawn,’” says Bauer. “However, teenagers seem to develop a delayed circadian rhythm, which is the tendency to want to go to

sleep late and to wake up late. This can look like a preferred bedtime of 1 a.m. and a preferred wake-up time of 11 a.m.”

Bauer explains that this shift in sleep patterns can be particularly challenging for teenagers, as many high schools have an earlier start time than elementary schools.

How much is too much sleep for a teenager?

The general sleep recommendation for teens, ages 13 to 18, is eight to 10 hours of sleep per night with a maximum of 11 hours. Bauer notes that if a teenager consistently requires more than 11 hours of sleep per night, there’s a possibility they may be considered pathologically sleepy, indicating a potential medical concern.

“The first thing I would think about when a teenager is sleepy during the day, despite getting eight to 11 hours of sleep at night, would be obstructive sleep apnea,” says Bauer. “This can show up as snoring, pauses in breathing and gasping in sleep. Other signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include bedwetting, morning headaches and inattention.”

Why teen sleep deprivation matters

Sleep tips for teens

• Stop screen time 2 hours before bedtime.

• Allow time for winding down.

• Follow a regular bedtime routine.

• Wake up at the same time every morning.

According to a Youth Risk Behavior Survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 79 percent of Oklahoma high school students do not get enough sleep. Without consistent sleep, young people are more likely to experience sleep deprivation, which can have a significant impact on their mental, physical and emotional health.

According to Bauer, “some signs and symptoms of sleep deprivation could include chronic daytime fatigue or sleepiness, headaches, irritability and/or mood issues, inattention, poor grades and other health issues, such as frequent infections or obesity.”

Just like adults, teenagers who are sleep-deprived may experience more anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. It’s important for families to discuss the impact of sleep on health and seek ways to support healthy sleep patterns.

How to create healthy sleep patterns

To establish a healthy sleep pattern, Bauer recommends having a regular wake-up time every morning — regardless of whether you need to or not — and keeping a regular bedtime.

An unhealthy sleep pattern she often sees in her clinic is a teenager who doesn’t have a set bedtime and ends up going to sleep whenever they want, often past midnight. Then, they are forced to wake up early for school, may sleep through classes, have a long nap after school and then struggle to go to sleep at a reasonable bedtime, thus beginning the cycle again.

Instead, she says, along with a regular wake and sleep schedule, you should also avoid sleeping during the day, eat

regular meals, stay in daylight and keep active.

“About one to two hours before the planned bedtime, begin dimming lights, turn off electronics and start some calming screen-free activities, as well as incorporate a regular bedtime routine (e.g. bath, brush, book, bed),” says Bauer.

“It’s important to remember that the teenage years are a crucial time of physical, cognitive and emotional growth.

“Healthy sleep habits play a vital role in the optimal growth and development of teenagers into well-functioning adults.” Healthy sleep habits play a

Dr. Chee Yoon Bauer

One less errand to run!

Is It Just Stress? How dads

can tell when to get

help

BY MICHAEL DICKERSON

Acouple of weeks ago, I was speaking at a conference about stress, something every one of us feels but not all of us know how to talk about. After my session, a young dad approached me. He looked tired in a way I recognized right away.

He shared that he thought he was dealing with more than just the usual stress that comes with work and raising kids. He told me he’d come home after 10-hour shifts, too drained to even look his children in the eye, and that he was drinking more at night just to feel like he could relax.

His honesty stayed with me long after the conference ended. It made me wonder: How can fathers tell when the weight they’re carrying has crossed the line from everyday stress into something that needs real help?

For a lot of dads, answering that question isn’t easy. From the time we’re little boys, we learn to tough it out and keep moving. Maybe you heard growing up: “Stop acting like a baby” or “Big boys don’t cry.” Whether it was after falling off your bike or losing a game, those words had a way of sinking in and shaping how you saw yourself. Over the years, they taught us to measure strength by how well we could hide our pain.

When life gets heavy, when we’re trying to hold it together at work, be good fathers, be good partners, nobody thinks to ask if we’re OK. We even forget to ask ourselves. We just keep pushing forward, convinced that admitting we’re overwhelmed would mean we’re failing the people who count on us.

The risk of ignoring the warning signs

Here’s the truth: ignoring that voice inside doesn’t make it go away. It only makes the weight heavier. If we don’t pay attention to the warning signs, the stress can grow into something that robs us of the moments that matter most.

Everyday stress is part of being a dad. Most of us have found ways to manage it, like taking a walk after work, lifting weights or spending a few minutes in the morning just breathing before the day begins. These habits can help. But what do you do when those things stop working? When no matter what you try, you still feel stuck in the same dark place?

Here are some signs it could be more than just stress:

• You feel numb or hopeless most days, like you’re just going through the motions.

• You start pulling away from the people you love and stop answering texts and calls.

• Your patience is gone, and anger shows up instead, sometimes over little things.

• You rely more on alcohol or other substances just to cope.

• You can’t sleep, even when you’re exhausted.

• You’ve thought about hurting yourself or wished you didn’t have to wake up tomorrow.

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a place to start being honest with yourself. Ignoring these red flags won’t protect you or your family. It just makes the pain dig in deeper.

What can you do if you recognize yourself in these words?

The first step is doing something that feels scary: saying it out loud. Call a friend you trust and tell them, “I’m not OK.” You might be surprised how much relief there is in finally naming it. Talk to your partner. Let them in on what’s really happening inside. You don’t have to figure everything out in one conversation, but opening that door is powerful. You can also check with your workplace. Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs that provide a limited number of free counseling sessions. Talking to a professional who doesn’t judge you can help you see your situation more clearly. Another option is to make an appointment with your doctor. They can listen, offer guidance and help you figure out your next steps.

If you ever feel like you’re in crisis or are thinking about ending your life, please know you are never alone. You can call or text 988 any time, day or night, or go to your nearest emergency room. There are people ready to help you, no matter what.

Strong doesn’t mean silent

I remind myself often that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s one of the bravest choices you can make. When dads try to carry everything alone, the load only gets heavier. Real strength is something different. It’s admitting that you can’t do it all by yourself. It’s teaching your kids that leaning on others doesn’t make you less of a man, it makes you human.

And it’s not just about you. When you take that step toward getting help, you show your children what resilience looks like. You show them that it’s OK to have hard days and that no one is meant to face them alone. Like the old saying goes, no person is an island. You don’t have to do this by yourself. The truth is you were never supposed to. So, dads, if you’re struggling, give yourself permission to be strong in a new way. Be the example of courage your family needs. Take that first brave step toward help. You’ll be glad you did, not only for your own peace of mind, but also for the people who love you and want you here, healthy and whole.

Editor’s note: Michael Dickerson is a mental health professional with over 13 years of experience. He leads a consulting group that works with organizations to support employee well-being.

Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Find Fall in an Oklahoma Oasis

Your family guide to autumn adventures in Sulphur

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY DEBBIE MURNAN

Escaping to the great outdoors in autumn is our family’s favorite way to slow down after a busy summer and recharge before winter’s rush. Whether for a quick day trip or weekend getaway, one spot we keep coming back to is Chickasaw National Recreation Area near Sulphur. Just a 90-minute drive from the Oklahoma City metro, its natural springs, cascading waterfalls and vibrant fall foliage offer the perfect setting for hiking, wildlife watching and reconnecting as a family. Here’s our guide to learning more about the park, popular trails to explore and our favorite activities in the area so you can start planning your road trip this fall.

About the park

The origin of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area dates back to 1902, when it was called Platt National Park, after the government purchased 640 acres from the Chickasaw Nation to protect the area’s mineral and freshwater springs. In the 1930s, most of the park’s infrastructure, including pavilions, campgrounds, dams and picnic areas, were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. With the addition of more acreage, including the Lake of the Arbuckles, the recreation area we know today was officially established in 1976 and continues to be managed by the National Park Service.

The Chickasaw National Recreation Area is located about halfway between Oklahoma City and Dallas, nestled among the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains. It offers over 20 miles of trails, two lakes available for aquatic recreation, two bison pastures and six campgrounds with over 400 campsites for both tent and RV camping throughout the park.

The Lake of the Arbuckles is the larger of the two lakes, with about 36 miles of shoreline and several boat launch ramps. Veterans Lake has 3 miles of shoreline and is open to canoeing and kayaking, with a paved trail encircling it. Both lakes have fishing docks available if

you decide to cast a line for some of the most popular catches, like bass, catfish, crappie and panfish.

The Travertine Nature Center serves as the park’s primary visitor center and is a great place to gather information and maps. Inside, check out a variety of exhibits, including live animals, that highlight the forest and prairie ecosystems of southern Oklahoma. The nature center also offers Junior Ranger booklets for kids of all ages to learn more about the park. Once your kids have completed the required activities and puzzles, they can return the booklet to a park ranger so they can be sworn in and receive an official badge.

Popular trails and attractions

As the crowds decline and the crisp, cool air returns in early October, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area becomes a tranquil haven for hikers. Many of the trails hug the wandering streams and rushing waterfalls for a peaceful soundscape throughout the park, and the fresh fallen leaves underfoot make every step feel connected to nature. While the oasis of springs, streams and lakes are often the star attraction, the surrounding pines and colorful hardwood trees are just as stunning this time of year.

One of the most popular trails in the park, the Travertine Creek Trail, is about 3 miles round trip and connects the Travertine Nature Center and Pavilion Springs. This gravel trail is relatively flat, featuring bridges, descending creeks and multiple cascading falls, like Little Niagara Falls, a popular destination and swimming hole for kids to play in during the summer. Strollers with larger wheels can traverse the gentle slopes of this trail with ease. Leashed pets are allowed in most areas of the park, excluding the swimming areas along Travertine Creek and the trails just east of the nature center.

One of our family’s favorite trails is the Bison Pasture Trail, about 2 miles in length, with a short (but steep) spur trail to Bromide Hill for an epic overlook. The terrain is diverse, and we frequently see lots of wildlife, including bison, as the trail passes through the park’s pastures. We also enjoy hiking the Antelope and Buffalo Springs Trail, which is about 3 miles round trip, including all the side loops. The trail starts at the nature center and makes its way through a shady forest to the springs that serve as the main water source for Travertine Creek.

Lastly, don’t miss the meandering trails that wind through Flower Park. The park’s centerpiece is the Vendome Well, Oklahoma’s largest artesian well known for its mineral-rich waters. This trail system will also take you to Lincoln Bridge, one of the most picturesque spots in the recreation area.

A visit to Sulphur wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. This world-class facility features fine art galleries, historical exhibits and daily stomp dance demonstrations, providing a meaningful opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Chickasaw Nation.

The 184-acre campus is adorned with gardens, sculptures, impressive architectural elements and an outdoor village showcasing traditional homes. A 40-foot sky bridge offers expansive views of the Chickasaw Cultural Center and the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, while the 195-foot Inkana Bridge below serves as a link and symbol of partnership between these two entities.

START YOUR ADVENTURE AT THE TRAVERTINE NATURE CENTER.

THE PARK’S TRAILS ARE PEPPERED WITH PEACEFUL SOUNDSCAPES, INCLUDING BUBBLING SPRINGS AND CASCADING WATERFALLS.

Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Dining and accommodations

If you decide to extend your stay and need alternatives to camping, the Artesian Hotel is the premiere accommodation in Sulphur, offering guests spacious suites, spa services and on-site dining. There are also several cottage and cabin rentals in the area for families needing more space and the convenience of a kitchen to prepare meals.

Sulphur is home to wonderful restaurants with diverse cuisine options to consider while visiting the area. Roma’s Italian Restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and incredible service, impressing guests with homemade pastas and hand-tossed pizza.

If Mexican food sounds more appealing, check out El Jimador Grill and Cantina for its authentic cuisine, including sizzling fajitas, street tacos and plenty of vegetarian options. Springs at the Artesian is a finedining restaurant without the elevated prices, serving up elegant, homestyle dishes from morning to evening. For a more traditional Native American meal, patrons rave about Aaimpa Café, located at the Chickasaw Cultural Center, with newly expanded seating and fresh menu items such as the buffalo burger and Three Sisters salad.

The beauty of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area never ceases to amaze our family, reminding us of the simple joys in life and the gift of change that comes with

each new season. Spending a beautiful autumn day hiking along the powerful waters that course through the park is sure to restore your peace and sense of connection with those around you.

ENJOY STUNNING VIEWS ATOP BROMIDE HILL ALONG THE BISON PASTURE TRAIL.

Why advertise with

(ABOVE ) BUFFALO SPRINGS OFFERS A RELAXING PLACE TO PAUSE ALONG TRAVERTINE CREEK. (RIGHT ) EXPLORE THE RICH HISTORY AND CULTURE OF THE CHICKASAW NATION AT THE CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER.

Turning Pages Into Play

Where families can read, play and explore together

Reading aloud turns imagination into magic, and story times in OKC make it even more special. Here’s how your family can enjoy books off the page all around the city!

Library tales

Metropolitan Library System offers free programs like Baby Time, Toddler Time and 123 Play with Me at libraries around the city. These programs incorporate books, music and movement to boost a love of literacy. Enriching activities allow parents and kids to have fun together, plus there is plenty of room for kids to get up and roam.

Find a story time near you at metrolibrary.org

Have elementary age kids? Try Metro Library’s reading to dogs program! It’s a paws-itively adorable confidence-booster.

Sensational story times at local bookstores

�� Full Circle Bookstore offers cozy corners for reading, a fun play area and charming architecture. Their weekly story time kicks off at 10:15 a.m. every Saturday.

�� Best of Books in Edmond hosts weekly story times on Saturdays at 11 a.m., often featuring local authors. Cozy up to hear a story and enjoy crafts and other fun activities.

ENJOY STORY TIMES AND ENRICHING ACTIVITIES AT METRO LIBRARY LOCATIONS AROUND OKC.

ARTICLE & PHOTO BY MECCA RAYNE

�� Commonplace Books is a bookloving paradise. Their Saturday morning Story Time for Littles starts at 10 a.m.

�� Pro tip: Don’t stress about snacks — many bookstores have cafés with drinks, treats and meals!

Want more story times?

Explore local favorites at metrofamilymagazine. com/story-time-fun-in-okc 

Mecca Rayne is a mom and journalist who enjoys exploring the metro with her two kids.