Fyi 2013

Our Kids San Antonio’s 2013

F.Y. I .

FREE

Your Year-Round Family Resource

Activities • Camps • Destinations • Schools • Services & More

Musical Arts Centers of San Antonio, Inc. “Bring Music to Your Child Bring Music to Your Home Music: A Gift that Lasts a Lifetime”

SM

“Building a Foundation for Lifelong Music” SM • Piano, guitar and voice teachers are waiting for you!

• San Antonio’s Most Successful Community School!

Inquire for a free interview! • (210) 697-7111 • macsa.info@gmail.com

www.MusicalArtsCenter.com

Emergency Information Fill Out and Leave For Your Babysitter Personal phone numbers: __________________

Neighbors: _______________________________

__________________________________________

Timely contacts for sitter: __________________

Our address is: ____________________________

We will be at:_____________________________

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From: _____________To: ___________________

Our telephone number is: _________________

Phone number is: _________________________

Mom at work or cell phone: _______________

We will check in at: _______________________

Dad at work or cell phone:_________________

Rules and guidelines: ______________________

Emergency alternates: _____________________

Naptime: _________________________________

Police:____________________________________

Mealtime: ________________________________

Fire:______________________________________

Snacks: ___________________________________

Ambulance: ______________________________

TV/Video: ________________________________

Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Bathtime: ________________________________

Frequently called numbers: ________________

Bedtime: _________________________________

School/Childcare: _________________________

Off-limit areas: ___________________________

Playmates: _______________________________

Other:____________________________________

Relatives:_________________________________

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Babysitters: Be Sure to . . .

• Familiarize yourself with the home.

• Confirm parents’ destination and expected time of return.

• Lock doors and open them only to people the parents have approved.

• Take an infant with you wherever you go. (Put the infant in a crib or playpen when answering the doorbell or phone.)

• Find out about medications, specific foods, allergies, etc.

• Stay awake and alert.• Leave the house as orderly as you found it.

• Be alert to choking hazards and keep small objects out of young children’s reach. (Choking is a leading of accidental death in young children, especially those under the age of 3).

Contents

12 OUR KIDS MAGAZINE, LLC P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009

Visit us online at OurKidsSanAntonio.com Publisher Pat Ramotowski EDITORIAL Editor: Cynthia Ladson, 855-232-1685

FYI Family Resource Guide 6 Festivals and Year-Round Fun 12 Are We There Yet? 12 History and Culture 14 Museums 16 Thrills, Spills, Rides and Outdoor Fun 18 Parks, Camping and Hiking Trails

ADVERTISING SALES Account Executives: Mary Anne Jones, 210-391-7902 Dan Greenhouse PRODUCTION Production & Design Manager: Amanda Hawkins Senior Graphic Designer: Angela Rosa Graphic Designers: Arianna Azevedo, Wagner Chiang, Arianna Fernandez, Joshua Gonzales, Susan O, Brendon Peters, Staci Stedman-Morris

20 Natural Wonders 21 Pick-Your-Own Farms 22 Indoor Play and Fun

DISTRIBUTION TASPAS Delivery DistribuTech

25 Now Showing, Music and Dance 26 Getting There and Seeing the Sights 28 Zoo and Animal Encounters 30 San Antonio Sports 31 Healthcare 32 Books, Storytimes & More 34 Parent Education & Support Groups

Family Resources 44 A-Z Listings

On The Cover Young visitor has fun while at SeaWorld San Antonio.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO

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Our Kids magazine is published monthly by OUR KIDS MAGAZINE, LLC. Advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

Limit of one free copy per reader. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Our Kids magazine copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Editor’s Note

FYI Places Information at Your Fingertips

By Cynthia Ladson

W

elcome to the 2013 Our Kids FYI, a resource guide that places valuable information at the fingertips of San Antonio families.

Besides the Alamo, San Antonio is loved for its annual Fiesta celebration. These young dancers get into the Fiesta groove.

We hope you will find FYI useful and informative. While we cannot include every company and organization providing family-friendly events and services in the 60 pages of FYI, you will find that we have added a number of categories not found in our resource guides in previous years.

Additionally, we hope we have organized the book in such a way to make it much more user friendly.

As always, whether you are a first-time visitor to San Antonio, a new transplant or have lived here many years, FYI is a valuable tool for you and your family.

Happy reading!

2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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Festivals & Year-Round Fun

San Antonio is Loaded With Excitement January

February San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo: A 19-day event of Texasstyle family fun includes daily rodeo performances with live musical entertainment, livestock and horse shows, and a Family Fair 6

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with pig races, a petting zoo, pony rides and a carnival. AT&T Center and Freeman Coliseum grounds.

210-225-5851. www.sarodeo.com.

Rodeo tickets: 877-637-6336 or www.ticketmaster.com.

Mardi Gras River Parade: Features a procession of decorated river barges that transform the San Antonio River into a floating Bourbon Street.

Krewes of costumed revelers and live entertainment celebrate Mardi Gras San Antonio-style. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

March “Remembering the Alamo” Weekend:” A dramatization of the events of the final two days (March 5 and 6, 1836) of the 13-day siege of the Alamo by Gen. Santa Anna’s army. Alamo Plaza. 210-273-1730. www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org.

Luminaria: Annual celebration of art and artists in the city. Event

PHOTO COURTESY OF CREATIVE CIVILIZATION

U.S. Army All-American Bowl: The premier national high school football All-Star game – an East vs. West showdown featuring the nation’s top 90 high school senior football players, plus members of the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band. Alamodome. www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com.

River Walk Mud Festival: Civic and media personalities vie for the title of River Walk King and Queen. Activities include a Mud Coronation, Mud Pie Ball and Mud River Parade. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

MLK Day: Events include one of the nation’s largest marches in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The annual march begins at MLK Academy on MLK Drive, proceeding to PittmanSullivan Park for a commemorative program. 210-207-2098. www.sanantonio.gov/mlk.

Asian Festival: Celebrate the Year of the Snake and learn about the many Asian cultures of Texas with music, crafts, ethnic dancing, multicultural demonstrations and a wide variety of Asian food. Institute of Texan Cultures. 210-458-2300. www.texancultures.com.

Kids participating in city’s Luminaria celebration.

April Poteet Strawberry Festival: Annual berry bash features rodeo performances, a carnival, arts and crafts, strawberry judging and auction, and continuous entertainment including nationally known Country and Western and Tejano stars. 9199 N. Texas 16 in Poteet, 30 minutes south of San Antonio. 888-742-8144. www.strawberryfestival.com.

Fiesta San Antonio: Eleven-day citywide celebration includes more than 100 events – street and river parades, festivals, carnivals, sports, fireworks, art exhibits, music and ethnic feasts. Family-friendly events include the Paseo del Rio Children’s Festival on the River Walk. The Battle of Flowers – the first Fiesta event in 1891 – honors the memory

PHOTO BY JON ALONZO

showcases all art forms, including activities and performances in downtown San Antonio, both inside and outdoors. 210-212-4999. www.luminariasa.org.

A Fest of Tails: Kite festival and dog fair includes live music, arts and crafts, kite-flying demonstrations and a pooch parade with prizes for best-dressed dog.

McAllister Park. 210-212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org.

St. Patrick’s Day: Events in observance of the celebration include a downtown street parade, Dyeing O’ the River Green and St. Patrick’s Day River Parade and Festival along the San Antonio River and Irish Heritage Day complete with food, games and activities. 210-227-4262. www.harpandshamrock.org. www.irishculturalsociety.com.

Fiesta Arts Fair includes craft activities for kids.

of Texas heroes. 210-227-5191. www.fiesta-sa.org.

San Antonio Highland Games: 14th anniversary games feature traditional Scottish heavy athletics, Celtic music, dance performances, bagpipe competition, parade of Scottish dogs, sheep-herding trials, food and children’s activities in the Kid’s Glen. Helotes Festival Grounds off Bandera Road. www.sahga.org.

May Cinco de Mayo: Commemorates the Mexican Army’s defeat of the invading French at the Battle of Pueblo on May 5, 1862. Events include a festival with music and food at historic Market Square. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com.

Tejano Conjunto Festival: An outdoor festival featuring live performances by Conjunto bands. The 32nd annual festival includes a student recital, accordion raffle and food booths. Rosedale Park. 210-271 3151. www.guadalupeculturalarts.org.

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Soul Food Festival: Annual event in La Villita features youth performers, Gospel and R&B music, soul food, arts and crafts, and children’s activities.

Take a canned food donation for the Little Church at La Villita and the San Antonio Food Bank. 210-213-7066. www.lavillitaheritage.com.

Military River Parade: The men and women of the United States armed forces as well those having served in recent years will be honored during this event. About 25 floats will travel down the downtown river featuring all branches of service, veterans of recent conflicts and military support groups. The floats will feature live entertainment from military groups and local artists.

Fiesta Noche Del Rio: A fast-paced musical revue presented at the Arneson River Theatre from May through August featuring costumed dancers and singers with lively music from Mexico, Spain, Argentina, and Texas. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities. 210226-4651. www.fiestanochedelrio.com.

Cornyval: Event features rodeo performances, carnival, corn-eating contest, parade, live entertainment, family area with kids’ catfishing, gunslingers, clowns and a Medicine Wagon with T-Bone the longhorn steer, arts and crafts, food. Helotes Festival Grounds off Bandera Road.

210-695-2103. www.cornyval.com.

June Texas Folklife Festival: A celebration of the diverse ethnic and cultural groups that settled the state. Some 45 different groups share their stories, crafts, music, dance and food. Institute 8

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PHOTO COURTESY OF POTEET STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Festivals & Year-Round Fun

Poteet Strawberry Festival includes activities for all ages.

of Texan Cultures on the grounds of Hemisfair Park. 210-458-2224. www.texasfolklifefestival.org.

Juneteenth: Events celebrate the date – June 19, 1865 – that Texas slaves received word they were free. Includes a parade, pageant and festival with live music, Gospel groups, food and children’s activities at Comanche Park #2. Held the third weekend. 210-527-1830. www.juneteenthsanantonio.com.

July Independence Day: Events around town include the July Fourth Celebration and Fireworks at Woodlawn Lake featuring a children’s parade, food, music, dance, arts and crafts, games for youngsters and fireworks at dusk. 210-212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org.

Also, events in Market Square, 210-207-8600, www.marketsquaresa. com; and at the Alamo, 210-225-1391, www.thealamo.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PASEO DEL RIO ASSOCIATION

More than 90 canoe teams race down the San Antonio River during the Canoe Challenge.

August Canoe Challenge: Teams compete in a canoe challenge on the San Antonio River downtown.

Teams include local celebrities, city officials, corporate teams, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. Race begins and ends at the Chamber of Commerce.

Free for spectators. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

St. Louis Day Festival: Castroville’s historic St. Louis Catholic Church presents its annual summer festival on the banks of the Medina River.

Includes a beef and sausage dinner, live entertainment, bingo, horseshoe pitching, and a Kids’ Korner with carnival rides, games and a fishing pond. 830-931-2826. www. castrovilletx.com/castroville-st-louisday.htm.

People en Español Festival: The two-day festival celebrates Latino culture and entertainment with concerts, celebrity appearances, family activities, workshops and more. The festival relocated from New York to San Antonio last year. www.peopleenespanol.com/package/ festival-people-en-espanol-2012.

September Diez y Seis: Marking Mexico’s independence from Spain, San Antonio celebrates September 16 with a parade along Guadalupe Street and festival of music and dance with a children’s area.

210-223-3151. www.avenidaguadalupe. org; and Fiestas Patrias in historic Market Square. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com.

Jazz’SAlive: One of the largest outdoor jazz festivals in the country features local, regional and national performers, children’s activities and a hands-on children’s music workshop. Activities are set for Travis Park downtown. 210-212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org.

October International Accordion Festival: Festival of accordion performances, workshops and music jams celebrating the versatility of the accordion and accordion-based international styles of music is held in La Villita. 210-852-0109. www.internationalaccordionfestival.org.

Greek FUNstival: Annual event includes live Greek music and folk dance, authentic foods, raffle and Greek gift items for purchase in the agora (marketplace). St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church. 210-735-5051. www.stsophia.tx.goarch.org.

River Walk Lucky Duck Race: Watch as more than 25,000 rubber ducks race down the San Antonio River to benefit Haven for Hope and the Paseo del Rio Association.

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San Antonio Founders Day: Music, dance, historical re-enactments and youth entertainers highlight the founding of the city. Children’s area features a History Trail, Explorer’s Hideaway and craft activities. Activities are held at The Alamo and Alamo Plaza. www.sanantoniofoundersday.org.

Halloween: A variety of Halloween and fall festivals take place around the city including BOOtanica at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, Zoo Boo at the San Antonio Zoo, Treat Street at LaVillita’s Maverick Plaza.

BOOtanica includes a costume parade, storytelling, games and crafts. 210-207-3250. www.sabot.org.

Zoo Boo features trick-or treating, games and a costume contest.

210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org Treat Street offers entertainment booths, giveaways, activities, and free trick-or treating. 210-366-1129. www.foxsanantonio.com.

November Día de los Muertos: Traditional altars, exhibits and events at galleries, museums and cultural centers around town celebrate the Day of the Dead, the Mexican custom of honoring the memory of family members and loved ones who have passed away. Includes events at Market Square, SAY Sí and Centro Cultural Aztlan. 210-432-1896. www.sacalaveras.com.

Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony: More than two million lights glitter in the trees along the River Walk following the annual lighting ceremony marking the Christmas holidays. An illuminated river parade featuring decorated 10

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PHOTO BY FRED GONZALEZ/CITY OF SAN ANTONIO

Festivals & Year-Round Fun

Diwali Festival of Lights features a variety of dance forms, autentic Indian food and more.

floats with celebrities, bands and costumed participants follow the lighting ceremony. San Antonio River downtown. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

Texas Hill Country Christmas Lighting Trail: Nearby Hill Country towns light up for the holidays when Bandera, Blanco, Boerne, Burnet, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg, Johnson City, Kerrville, Llano, Marble Falls, New Braunfels and Wimberley switch on their Christmas lights.

Each community offers special holiday events. 866-839-3378. www.tex-fest.com.

Holiday Boat Caroling: More than 185 school, church, business and civic choral groups sing traditional carols on floating barges along the San Antonio River downtown.

Music includes bell choirs, folk groups and Latino ensembles that perform nightly. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

Dickens on Main: Downtown Boerne’s annual holiday festival includes a Weihnachts (Christmas) Parade, pet parade, live entertainment, carriage rides, late night shopping and food booths. 888-500-0890. www.dickensonmain.com.

Light the Way: Annual lighting of the University of the Incarnate Word campus for the holiday season. www.uiw.edu. 210-829-6001.

Diwali Festival of Lights: The festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil features dance, a handicrafts bazaar, fireworks displays and authentic Indian cuisine. The event is at Hemisfair Park near the Institute of Texan Cultures. www.diwalisa.com.

210-273-2200.

December

Blessing of the Animals: Pets are blessed by a priest in honor of the animals present at the first nativity.

Families take a wide variety of pets each year. Market Square. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com.

Kids’ Countdown: A children’s event to ring in the New Year features a confetti-filled countdown to noon followed by a sparkling juice toast and special New Year’s art activities.

Reservations required. San Antonio Children’s Museum. 210-212-4453. www.sakids.org.

Celebrate San Antonio: Annual downtown New Year’s Eve bash includes live music, food booths, a family stage at Arneson River Theatre and fireworks at midnight. Market and Alamo streets downtown. 210-212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org.

Valero Alamo Bowl: The bowl game showcases two of the premier conferences in the country – the Big 12 and Pac-12 – in a football showdown inside the Alamodome. www.valeroalamobowl.com/main. ■

PHOTO COURTESY FO THE PASEO DEL RIO ASSOCIATION

Fiesta de las Luminarias: Thousands of luminarias (candles in sand-filled bags) line the River Walk on weekends, beginning at dusk. The tradition symbolically marks the lighting of the way for the Holy Family. San Antonio River downtown. 210-227-4262. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

Los Pastores: Traditional Hispanic folk play depicts the age-old conflict between good and evil, telling the story of the shepherds’ journey to worship the Christ Child and the obstacles the devil places before them.

Performed in Spanish with an accompanying commentary in English. Mission San Jose. 210-922-3218. www.loscompadres.org.

La Gran Posada: Staged every year by San Fernando Cathedral, the re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter begins in Milam Park and continues through Market Square to the cathedral on Main Plaza. 210-227-1297.

Holiday River Parade is just one of many activities www.sfcathedral.org. taking place on the River Walk in December.

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There is No Place Like San Antonio History and Culture

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soldiers stationed at the Mission San Antonio de Valero or the Alamo.

Today the community is a thriving arts community. 210-207-8610. www.lavillita.com.

Market Square, on the site of the original Farmers Market, is a historic area featuring shops, restaurants, art galleries, live outdoor entertainment and El Mercado – the largest Mexican marketplace outside Mexico. Free.

514 W. Commerce St. 210-207-8600. www.marketsquaresa.com.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park includes four frontier missions along the San Antonio River, the Espada Dam and Aqueduct.

Visitors can start at the park’s visitor center at Mission San José and continue on Mission Trail Parkway to the Concepción, San Juan Capistrano and Espada missions. Established in the 18th century by Spain, the missions were charged with converting local American Indians to Catholicism, served as vocational and educational centers and were involved in agriculture and ranching. Free.

210-932-1001. www.nps.gov/saan.

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOWITZ/SACVB

an Antonio is rich in attractions, historic sites, museums and theme parks, with plenty of opportunities for fun family outings.

The Alamo, established by the Spanish in 1718 as Mission San Antonio de Valero, is where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, following 13 days of attacks by Gen. Santa Anna’s army from Mexico. Three buildings housing exhibits on the Texas Revolution and Texas history are set in gardens on 4.2 acres in the heart of downtown. 300 Alamo Plaza.

210-225-1391. www.thealamo.org.

Casa Navarro State Historic Site includes the restored adobe home of Tejano patriot José Antonio Navarro (1795-1871). Dating to circa 1832-1855, the house is furnished with period antiques.

228 S. Laredo St. 210-226-4801. www.visitcasanavarro.com.

La Villita was San Antonio’s first neighborhood. It was a settlement of primitive huts for the Spanish

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The Alamo is one of the most visited historic sites in Texas.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MCNAY ART MUSEUM

The McNay is one of nine museums in San Antonio.

Stroll, shop and dine on the River Walk or learn about the rich history of the San Antonio River when you take a narrated boat ride tour. Dining boats available. 210-244-5700.

San Fernando Cathedral was founded on March 9, 1731 by a group of 15 families of 55 settlers who came from the Canary Islands at the invitation of King Phillip V of Spain to settle the remote territory and prevent possible incursion by France. San Fernando was the first parish church in Texas and is the oldest cathedral sanctuary in the United States. Free.

115 Main Plaza. 210-227-1297. www.sfcathedral.org.

Spanish Governor’s Palace, a National Historic Landmark, is the only remaining example of an 18th-century Spanish aristocrat’s house in Texas. Dating to 1722, the stucco building has 10 rooms with period furnishings and a courtyard with fountain. It was built as the home of the presidio captain who protected Mission San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo) and later became the seat of government for the Spanish Province of Texas. 105 Military Plaza.

210-224-0601. www.sanantonio.gov/ dtops/parks_plazas/governorspalace. aspx.

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to serve as the theme structure for the 1968 World’s Fair held in San Antonio. The tower provides a view of the city from the observation deck of a 750-foot building that also houses a revolving restaurant. 600 HemisFair Park. 210-223-3101. www.toweroftheamericas.com.

Museums

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PHOTO BY CYNTHIA LADSON

The Witte Museum’s Robert and Helen C. Kleberg South Texas Heritage Center explores more than 150 years of change and growth in San Antonio and South Texas.

he Buckhorn Museum features exhibits of wildlife from all over the world, a collection of horns and antlers, and the Texas Ranger Museum with a re-creation of San Antonio at the turn of the century including a saloon, jail, blacksmith shop and telegraph office. Also, a Bonnie & Clyde exhibit with a 1934 Ford V8 Deluxe.

318 E. Houston St. 210-247-4000. www.buckhornmuseum.com.

Institute of Texan Cultures interactive exhibits and displays tell the stories of immigrant cultural groups that settled in Texas. The Back 40 is an outdoor living history area with a one-room schoolhouse, log house, adobe house and army fort barracks typical of Texas in the 1800s. 801 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. 210-458-2300. www.texancultures.com.

McNay Art Museum focuses primarily on 19th- and 20th-century European and American art, including 14

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works by Cezanne, Picasso, Gauguin, Matisse, O’Keeffe and Hopper.

Contemporary art, modern sculpture and touring exhibitions are housed in the Jane and Arthur Stieren Center.

Family Days every month include hands-on art activities. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-824-5368. www.mcnayart.org.

Museo Alameda, located in historic Market Square, tells the story of the Latino experience in America through art, history and culture. The museum is operated by Texas A&M University.

101 S. Santa Rosa St. 210-299-4300. www.thealameda.org.

San Antonio Children’s Museum provides hands-on experiences on three floors of interactive play exhibits, and weekly science, art and early childhood activities for children

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART

Area youngsters can participate in a variety of activities during Museum Day at the San Antonio Museum of Art.

San Antonio Museum of Art in the restored Lone Star Brewery building features Greek, Roman and Egyptian antiquities; Asian, European and Latin American art; and contemporary American art including 20th-century paintings, sculpture and decorative arts.

First Sundays for Families take place each month and include exploring the museum and creating art. The museum’s Café des Artistes overlooks the River Walk. 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. www.samuseum.org.

Texas Air Museum features vintage aircraft. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of the roles San Antonio and Texas played in the development of military air power.

The museum honors the pioneers of aviation, technical advancements and to those giving their lives to defend freedom. The museum is south of downtown at Stinson

Airport, 1234 99th St. 210-977-9885. www.texasairmuseum.org Texas Transportation Museum includes a working railroad, railroad layouts of various gauges, automobiles, carriages and a fire engine. Train rides available on weekends. 11731 Wetmore Road. 210-490-3554. www.txtransportationmuseum.org.

Witte Museum features history and natural science exhibits, national traveling exhibits and family programs. H-E-B Science Treehouse includes hands-on science activities for all ages; the interactive Move It! A Game of Action; Mount Witte, a 20-foot rock climbing wall overlooking the San Antonio River; and the H.E.Buddy SkyCycle, an outdoor bicycle ride 14 feet in the air. 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1900. www.wittemuseum.org. ■

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Embassy Miniature Golf, situated behind the Embassy 14 Theatre complex, offers other familyfriendly activities such as the ultimate water-balloon battle game. 500 Embassy Oaks. 210-496-5847. www.embassygolf.com.

Fiesta Farm is a hands-on farm for family visits, field trips and birthday parties Kids can enjoy the carousel at SeaWorld San Antonio. including a petting zoo, pony rides, horseback riding, play areas and learning activities Cherry Ridge Drive. 210-341-6663. about animals and the environment. www.malibugrandprix.com.

8497 Farm Road 1560 N. between Morgan’s Wonderland is a fully Culebra and Shaenfield roads. accessible family fun park with 25 210-316-3166. www.fiestafarmlc.com. acres of attractions and rides designed Green Acres Golf and Games for special-needs individuals of all offers attractions such as two-18 hole ages and their families. Reservations miniature golf courses, go karts, a suggested. 5223 David Edwards paintball field, bumper boats with Drive at Thousand Oaks and water squirters, water wars, trampoline, Wurzbach Parkway. 210-495-5888. batting cages, mining sluice and www.MorgansWonderland.com. animaland to stuff and dress different Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort animals. It also offers a game room. features 40 water attractions including 9782 U.S. 87 East. 210-649-4653. slides, rides, chutes and coasters, www.greenacresminigolf.com. a children’s water playground and Kiddie Park amusement park for The Falls, a new 3,600-foot long children since 1925 includes kiddie whitewater river with rapids, water cars and airplanes, boat ride, ferris falls and giant waves. 381 E. Austin wheel and carousel. 3015 Broadway.

St., New Braunfels. 830-625-2351.

210-824-4351. www.kiddiepark.com. www.schlitterbahn.com.

Malibu Castle features miniature SeaWorld San Antonio attractions golf, go karts, bumper boats, batting include live entertainment, a water cages and a game room. 3330 park, Sesame Street Bay of Play, and 16

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO

Thrills, Spills, Rides and Outdoor Fun

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS

rollercoaster thrill rides. 17000 IH-10 West. Take exit 555, La Cantera Parkway. 210-697-5050. www.sixflags.com.

Splashtown features more than 50 rides and attractions on 20 acres and includes a Kids’ Kove and Dive-In Movies.

3600 N. IH-35. 210-227-1400. www.splashtownsa.com.

Texas Ski Ranch (TSR) Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ Superman offers a thrillis a 70-acre action sports filled ride. facility that offers cable lake Azul, a new theatrical animal show wakeboarding and waterskiing, rock with beluga whales, dolphins, birds climbing and much more. It also and acrobatic performers. 10500 has a skate park. Additionally, TSR SeaWorld Drive. 800-700-7786. provides private lessons and summer www.seaworld.com/sanantonio. camps for the kids. 830-627-2843.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas features live www.texasskiranch.com. ■ entertainment, water park rides and

Sports Opportunities for Children The following organizations provide information on youth sports opportunities in the San Antonio area.

Kids Sports Network.

Clearinghouse of information on non-school sports and fitness opportunities for ages 3-19; education for volunteer coaches, administrators and parents; extensive resources and contacts for local sports organizations and national links; youth programs and activities. 210-654-4707. www.ksnusa.org.

■ San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department.

Provides opportunities for kids and adults to get involved in sports at locations throughout

the city. 210-207-3153. www.saparathletics.com.

■ San Antonio Sports. Develops sports and fitness programs for all ages, with an emphasis on disadvantaged neighborhood youth. Programs for children and teens include Dreams for Youth, Community Olympic Development Program, Go!Kids Challenge and School Rock Challenge. 210-820-2100. www.sanantoniosports.org.

■ YMCA. Organization offers a youth sports program in basketball, soccer, baseball, football and volleyball. Aquatics and health and fitness programs also offered. 210-246-9622. www.ymcasatx.org.

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Parks, Camping and Hiking Trails

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17500 Donop Road, about 18 miles south of San Antonio. 210-635-8289. www.braunig-calaveras.info.

Calaveras Lake Park provides opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing and water skiing. 10441 Sulphur Springs Road, about 20 miles south of San Antonio. 210-635-8359. www.braunig-calaveras.info.

Canyon Lake’s recreational opportunities include boating, fishing and swimming. Located about 40 miles northwest of San Antonio near New Braunfels. 800-528-2104. www.canyonlakechamber.com.

Cibolo Nature Center is a 100-acre green space featuring nature trails winding through marsh, woodlands, a prairie and past Cibolo Creek. Workshops and programs for children and adults.140 City Park Road, Boerne, 30 miles northwest of San Antonio.

830-249- 4616. www.cibolo.org.

Crownridge Canyon Natural Area features level 1 ADA accessible trails and a half-mile of natural hiking trails through a variety of habitats spread over 200 acres. Includes a canopy-level bridge overlook. 7222 Luskey Boulevard. 210564-6400. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Eisenhower Park offers 320 acres of Texas Hill Country landscapes, including wooded dry creek beds and rocky canyons, and trails for hiking, jogging and nature study. Located south of Camp Bullis at 19399 N.W. Military Highway. 210-564-6400. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Friedrich Wilderness Park’s PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOTANICAL GARDEN

umerous attractions, parks, lakes and nature preserves offer outdoor fun for families, both in and out of town.

Blanco State Park comprises 104.6 acres along the Blanco River, offering camping, swimming, hiking, nature study, boating and fishing. Park Road 23, 40 miles north of San Antonio on U.S. 281. 830-833-4333. www.tpwd. state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/ blanco.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden sponsors Dog Days in the park several times a year.

Brackenridge Park is situated on 343 acres in central San Antonio.

Family activities include fishing in the San Antonio River, walking and cycling on woodland paths, picnicking, birding and golf. Also, play areas and miniature train rides.

3700 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec.

Braunig Lake Park offers recreational opportunities including fishing, camping, boating and birding.

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633 acres is maintained in its natural state, with opportunities for observing rare birds, wildlife and plant life in their natural environment.

21395 Milsa Road. 210-564-6400. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Government Canyon State Natural Area is an approximately 8,624-acre site in Bexar County, just outside San Antonio. Hiking trails take visitors through terrain that includes steep slopes, canyons and scenic overlooks. 12861 Galm Road. 210-6889055. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/ findadest/parks/government_canyon.

Guadalupe River State Park is on the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country. Recreational opportunities include fishing, swimming, tubing, hiking and an equestrian trail that can also be used for mountain biking. 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch. 830-438-2656. www.tpwd. state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/ guadalupe_river.

Hemisfair Park features 15 acres of fountains and waterfalls, historic buildings and a children’s playground. The park includes the Tower of the Americas, Institute of Texan Cultures, Instituto de México and Magik Children’s Theatre.

200 S. Alamo St. 210-207-3677. www.sanantonio.gov/dtops.

Hill Country State Natural Area is situated in rugged country southwest of Bandera, including 40 miles of trails in an undeveloped, primitive park. 10600 Bandera Creek Road. 830-796-4413. www.tpwd.state.us/spdest/findadest/ parks/hill_country.

Japanese Tea Garden features a 60-foot waterfall, stone Japanese-style pagoda, stone bridges over Koi-filled

ponds, and flowering shrubs and perennials. The garden is a registered Texas Historic Landmark, a Texas Civil Engineering Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 3853 N. St. Mary’s St., in Brackenridge Park. 210-212-4814. www.japaneseteagarden.org.

McAllister Park. Three miles of paved and unpaved trails weave around a children’s playground and sandbox area. Park also includes baseball fields and a dog park. 13102 JonesMaltsberger Road. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec.

Medina Lake offers recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, swimming and water sports.

23 miles southeast of Bandera. 800364-3833. www.wildtexas.com/parks/ medinalk.php.

Medina River Natural Area features 511 acres on the Medina River with hike and bike trails, fishing and a group camping area. 15890 Texas 16 South. 210-372-9124. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Mitchell Lake Audubon Center is a 1,200-acre wildlife refuge and bird haven situated on wetlands, ponds and upland habitat. Offers birding tours, children’s programs, family events and guided field trips.

Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, 10750 Pleasanton Road. 210-628-1639. www.mitchelllakeaudubon.org.

Phil Hardberger Park offers nature trails, picnic facilities, a playground, dog park and education programs on 311 acres. 13203 Blanco Road. 210-207-3284. www.philhardbergerpark.org.

San Antonio Botanical Garden’s 41 acres include a Rose Garden, Old 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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Are We There Yet? Fashioned Garden, Garden for the Blind, conservatories and a Native Texas Trail. Events and programs offered throughout the year for children and adults. 555 Funston Place.

210-207-3250. www.sabot.org.

San Pedro Springs Park is the second-oldest public park in the United States, after Boston Common.

Playground, pool, skate plaza, tennis courts and softball complex available.

1315 San Pedro Ave. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec.

Walker Ranch Historic Landmark has a half-mile paved exercise trail, a one mile nature trail, playscape and covered pavilions. 12603 West Ave. 210-564-6400. www.sanaturalareas.org.

Woodlawn Lake Park is more than 100 years old and offers fishing, canoeing, a playscape, athletic fields and a walking trail.

1103 Cincinnati St. 210-207-8480. www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec.

Natural Wonders

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egister for a guided tour of Canyon Lake Gorge to get a glimpse of the earth’s inner workings.

Geology novices and experts have been trekking to the area since the massive flood of 2002 carved out the gorge that has been called a geological phenomenon. Canyon Lake.

830-964-5425. www.canyongorge.org.

Cascade Caverns’ 90-foot waterfall is the grand finale of a one-hour guided tour. The half-mile long and 140-foot-deep cavern is water-formed with millions of drops of pure water falling on rock formations.

Also, First Fridays Flashlight Tour and a three-hour adventure tour to the Lower Cave. 830-755-8080. www.cascadecaverns.com.

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Cave Without a Name is a natural living cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, cave drapery, flowstones, rimstone dams and more. A one-hour tour of six rooms of formations follows easy walkways. 325 Kreutzberg Road, 12 miles from Boerne. 830-537-4212. www.cavewithoutaname.com.

Natural Bridge Caverns features caves and ancient formations 180 feet below ground. Also, adventure tours, hidden passages tour, lantern tours, a mining sluice and outdoor climbing tower. Off of IH 35 North. 210-651-6101. www.naturalbridgecaverns.com.

Wonder World Park features an earthquake-formed cave, along with the Tejas Observation Tower, an antigravity house, Texas wildlife petting park, rides and games. 1000 Prospect St., San Marcos. 512-392-3760. www.wonderworldpark.com. ■

Skate Parks Skate facilities are available in the following city parks. For more information, call 210-207-2879.

■ Bellaire, 733 Ansley Road ■ Cuellar, 5626 San Fernando ■ Lady Bird Johnson, 1700 Nacogdoches Road ■ Martinez, 201 Merida ■ Medina Base Road, 6303 Medina Base Road ■ Normoyle Park, 700 Culberson ■ Oscar Perez, 8601 Timber Path ■ Palo Alto, 1625 Palo Alto Road ■ San Pedro Springs, 1305 San Pedro Ave. ■ South Side Lions, 3100 Hiawatha ■ Spring Time Park, 6571 Spring Time

Pick-Your-Own Farms

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PHOTO COURTESY OF DEVINE ACRES

pend a family day in the country, picking your own fruit, flowers and vegetables or choosing and cutting a fresh Christmas tree.

Devine Acres Farm is a 44-acre working farm that grows cypress and pine trees.

Saws are provided. Also, hayrides, pumpkin patch, mazes, kids’ play area, farm animals to feed, Devine Derby Trike Track, barrel train ride, fishing and Pancakes with Santa. 944 Farm Road 2200 Visitors can pick their own pumpkins at Devine West in Devine. 830-665-9730.

Acres. www.devineacresfarm.com.

Love Creek Orchards offers pick-your-own apples and figs.

559 Kuhlmann Road. 830-997-9433.

The orchard operates a store nearby www.marburgerorchard.com. where apple butters, jams, jellies, Sweet Berry Farm grows pickpies and other baked goods are sold. your-own strawberries, blackberries, Group tours available. 14024 Texas tomatoes, potatoes, pumpkins and 16 North in Medina. 800-449-0882. gourds, depending on the season. www.lovecreekorchards.com.

Also, pick-your-own flowers, hayrides, Marburger Orchard near mazes, horse rides, fresh ice cream and Fredericksburg has peaches, the Pumpkin Grille. 1.2 miles north of blackberries, strawberries and Farm Road 1431 at 1801 Farm Road vegetables available for picking 1980, Marble Falls. 830-798-1462. during spring and summer. www.sweetberryfarm.com. ■

More Pick-Your-Own Resources ■ www.pickyourown.org - Site provides information on pumpkin patches, corn mazes, Christmas tree farms and places to pick your own vegetables and fruits.

■ www.picktexas.com – Lists of area farmers’ markets tht offer locally grown, fresh produce.

■ www.texaschristmastrees.com – Lists choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms.

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Are We There Yet?

Indoor Play and Fun here are numerous locations around town for indoor play, birthday parties and other indoor events and activities. What follows is a sampling of opportunities.

Amazing Jump San Antonio features large trampolines, dodge ball courts, trampoline basketball courts, trampoline playground and more. Interstate 35 North at the Eisenhower Road exit. www.sanantoniojump.com.

210-946-9800.

Amazing Mirror Maze offers family fun with Kiddie Park Pica Pica is San Antonio’s newest indoor play area on the Southside of the city. surprising twists, turns, dead ends, continuous circles, reflections of yourself in every direction and a laser beam challenge. yard adventure, basketball court, moon 217 Alamo Plaza. 210-224-2288. bounce and separate toddler area. 7142 www.amazingmazes.com.

San Pedro, Suite 112. 210-979-7529.

Dave and Busters offers a large www.funtasticplayland.com. variety of games including Quad Indoor Children’s Playground Air hockey, Monster Drop, Dirty provides an outlet for kids after the Driving, Connect 4, and Doodle jump family finishes shopping. Loop 410 which is played on your phone. 440 West at Ingram Road (inside Ingram Crossroads Boulevard, 210-515-1515.

Park Mall). www.daveandbusters.com.

Inflatable Wonderland gives Emerald Rainbow Family Fun kids 12 and under a place to run and Center in Bulverde features activities jump after the family takes a break for toddlers through adults including from shopping in the mall. 6909 an inflatable playground, batting N. Loop 1604 East, #2063 (inside cages, arcade games, miniature golf, a Rolling Oaks Mall). 210-212-4386. bowling alley and rock-climbing wall. www.inflatable.com 21155 Texas 46 West. 830-980-8981.

Just Add Children is an indoor www.emerald-rainbow.com playground and party center Funtastic Playland offers open play for ages 1 to 10. 7715 Mainland daily, including weekends. It features a Road, Ste.123. 210-520-2291. monster truck, castle, pirate ship, back www.justaddchildren.com.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF KIDDIE PARK PICA PICA

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Kiddie Park Pica Pica provides a modernized take on old-fashioned fun.

The new South Side venue features a carousel, jump houses, arcade, face painting, whip ride, train, carnival-styled

snack bar and several party rooms.

910 S.E. Military Drive. 210-922-2048. www.kiddieparkpicapica.com.

Laser Quest is a family entertainment venue that combines classic games

Ice, Roller Skating and More Indoor Fun ■ Ice and Golf Center at Northwoods, 17530 Henderson Pass, 210-490-9550, www.northwoodsice.net.

■ Roller skating – Car-Vel Skate Center Leon Valley, 6807 Bandera Road, 210-684-8900; Car-Vel Skateland South, 2351 Goliad Road, 210-337-6200; Rollercade, 223 Recoleta Road, 210-826-6361; Skateland East, 8910 Fourwinds Drive, 210-653-5333; and Skateland West, 2327 S.W. Loop 410, 210-673-2568.

Bowling Lanes ■ University Bowl, 12331 W. Interstate 10, 210-699-6235 ■ Brunswick, 4330 Thousand Oaks Drive, 210-654-0031 ■ Oak Hills Lanes, 7330 Callaghan Road, 210-344-6251 ■ AMF Country Lanes, 13307 San Pedro Ave. 210-496-3811 ■ Bandera Super Bowl, 6700 Huebner Road, 210-523-1716 ■ AMF Wonder Lanes, 1948 Austin Highway, 210-655-1610 ■ AMF Ponderosa Lanes, 210-333-6150

MOVIE THEATERS ■ Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – Park North, 618 Northwest Loop 410 AMC Theatres ■ IMAX Theatre at River Center, 849 E. Commerce St. #285

■ Rivercenter 9, 849 E. Commerce St. #800 ■ Aztec Theatre, 201 E. Commerce St. #300. 210-481-1200 Cinemark ■ Cinemark 9, 4224 S. New Braunfels Ave, #601 ■ Cinemark Dollar Movies 16, 5063 N.W. Loop 410 Regal Cinemas ■ Alamo Quarry, 16, 255 E. Basse Road ■ Cielo Vista18, 2828 Cinema Ridge ■ Fiesta 16, 12631 Vance Jackson ■ Live Oak 18, 7901 Pat Booker Road ■ Northwoods Stadium 14, 17640 Henderson Pass ■ Picolo, 2803 Austin Highway.

Santikos ■ Bijou at Crossroads, 4522 Fredericksburg Road ■ Embassy 14, 13707 Embassy Row ■ Granada 16 Stadium, 410 West Loop 1604 North ■ Mayan 14 Palace, 1918 S.W. Military Drive ■ Northwest Stadium 14, 7800 W. Interstate 10 ■ Palladium IMAX, 17703 Interstate 10 West ■ Silverado 16 Theatre, 11505 W. Loop 1604 North

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Are We There Yet?

PHOTO COURTESY OF ICE AND GOLF CENTER AT NORTHWOODS

hide-and-seek and tag with a high for times. Northeast: 14036 tech twists. There are two locations: Nacogdoches Road. 210-653Northwest San Antonio – 6420 N.W. 0700. Northwest: 7723 Guilbeau Loop 410, 210-520-8555; and North Road, Ste. 102. 210-523-8883.

Central – 606 Embassy Oaks, Ste. 200, www.pumpitupparty.com.

210-499-4400. www.laserquest.com.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Minitown is a pretend little town and Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks where children can move through displays oddities from all over the different areas and attractions. It world and curiosities at Ripley’s, offers a toddler soft play area, a and more than 200 life-like pretend H-E-B grocery store, movie theater, pet shop, arcade games and more. An outdoor play area including a trackless train and moon bounce is also available. 5359 Casa Bella. 210-315-2250. www.minitownsa.com.

At Monster Mini Golf everyone gets an opportunity to play golf with creepy, crawly monsters. 2267 N.W. Military Highway.

210-979-8888. www. monsterminigolf.com/ fran-tx-sanantonio/index.

Ice skating is a great outing for families. html.

Pee-Wee Bees offers a play facility for ages 3 months to 6 years to play. It offers figures in the Wax Museum. Also, structures to climb, toys roller coaster featuring a 4-D moving theater. ride, bounce house and more. 5511 301 Alamo Plaza. 210-224-9299.

W. Loop 1604 North, Ste. 111 in www.ripleys.com/sanantonio.

Alamo Ranch Shopping Center at the Ripley’s Haunted Adventure Culebra Road exit. 210-521-2337. is a year-round haunted house www.peeseebees.com. with live actors, animatronics and Pump It Up! features inflatable special effects. Also, Guinness World slides, bounce houses and obstacle Records Museum and Tomb Rider courses at two locations in San 3D Interactive Adventure Ride.

Antonio. Both offer Pop-In 329 Alamo Plaza. 210-226-2828.

Playtime. Call individual locations www.alamoplazaattractions.com. ■ 24

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Now Showing

Family Theater

Children can enjoy music and dance performances throughout the year. The following organizations offer shows and concerts.

Live theater just for kids can be found at several venues around town. These theater companies offer locally produced and national touring productions for young audiences.

■ Children’s Fine Arts Series, 3201 West Ave. 210-340-4060, www.childrensfineartseries.org ■ Land of Virtuosity, 8126 Broadway @ Flamingo, 210-844-4298, www.thelov.org ■ Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 210-227-2751, www.magiktheatre.org ■ Shakespeare in the Park is presented each year by Magik Theatre at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, www.magiktheatre.org ■ The Rose Theatre Company, 11838 Wurzbach Road at Lockhill-Selma, 210-360-0004, www.therosetheatreco.com ■ Stone Oak Family Theatre, 21518 Blanco Road, Suite 101, 210-481-2400, www.stoneoakyouththeatre.com ■ Woodlawn Theatre, 1920 Fredericksburg Road, 210-738-1117, www.woodlawntheatre.com ■

■ Alamo Arts Ballet

Theatre, 210-344-9428, www.alamoartsballet.org ■ Alamo City Dance Co., 210-495-0129, www.sanantonioschoolfor theperformingarts.com ■ Arts San Antonio, 210-226-2891, www.artssa.org ■ Ballet Conservatory of South Texas, 210-820-3400, www.balletsouthtexas.org ■ Ballet San Antonio, 210-404-9641, www.balletsanantonio.org ■ Cactus Pear Music Festival, 210-838-2218, www.cpmf.us ■ Carver Community Cultural Center, 210-207-2234, www.thecarver.org ■ Children’s Chorus of San Antonio, 210-826-3447, www.childrenschorussa.org ■ Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, 210-271- 3151, www.guadalupeculturalarts.org ■ San Antonio Metropolitan Ballet, 210-650-8810, www.sametballet.org ■ San Antonio Symphony, 210-554-1010, www.sasymphony.org ■ Texas Children’s Choir, 210-804-1804, www.texaschildrenschoir.org ■ Youth Orchestras of San Antonio, 210-737-0097, www.yosa.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COLUMBIA ART MANAGEMENT

Music and Dance

The Carver Community Cultural Center presents numerous shows each year. Here The Royal Drummers of Burundi dance and play drums.

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Getting There & Seeing Sights

Getting There xplore the city by bus or hop on a trolley for a tour of downtown destinations.

Downtown Streetcars, operated by VIA Metropolitan Transit, run on three different routes that include all the major sites downtown. A One-Day is available. 210-362 2020. www.viainfo.net.

San Antonio International Airport, 9800 Airport Boulevard in North Central San Antonio Carriage rides are a relaxing way to see the sights. at Loop 410 and U.S. 281, is 15 minutes from downtown. 210-207-3433.

Alamo SegCity offers Segway tours www.sanantonio.gov/aviation. of historic San Antonio. 210-224-0773.

VIA Metropolitan Transit, 1021 Austin Steam Train Association San Pedro Ave., operates numerous operates trains on scenic routes bus routes throughout the city. For through the Central Texas countryside. bike-andbus families, bike racks are Passengers board at Cedar Park. mounted on all VIA buses. To assist Office: 401 E. Whitestone Boulevard, downtown visitors, VIA operates a Cedar Park. 512-477-8468.

Downtown Information Center at 211 www.austinsteamtrain.org.

W. Commerce St. For bus schedules Horse-drawn carriage rides and other information, 210-362-2020 are offered through downtown by or go to www.viainfo.net. several companies. Narrated tours of

Sightseeing Tours

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rrange a city tour via bus, boat, helicoptr or horse-drawn carriage.

Want to explore the Texas Hill Country? Consider a train excursion.

Alamo Helicopter Tours provides trips of various lengths from Stinson Airport, flying over downtown landmarks or out over the Hill Country landscape. Holiday Lights tours are provided as well.

8535 Mission Road. 210-287-5797. www.alamohelicoptertours.com.

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various lengths pass by historic sites.

Tours are offered by Bluebonnet Carriage Co., 210-599-2474, www.bluebonnetcarriage.com; Lone Star Carriage Co., 210 656-7527, www.lonestarcarriage.com; and Yellow Rose Carriage Co., 210-225-6490, www.yellowrosecarriage.com.

City Tours Inc. operates San Antonio Trolly and Alamo SightSeeing Tours. San Antonio Trolley is a 60-minute narrated tour of downtown attractions. Alamo Sight-Seeing Tours are full-day tours of various locations.

321 Alamo Plaza. 210-492-4144. www.grandtrolleytours.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSE CARRIAGE COMPANY

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Downtown Bike Tours. Selfguided tours via bike. Bike rentals are available. Able’s Bike Shop, 210-542-6272; Alamo Bike Shop, 210-226-2453; B-Cycle, 210-2810101; Charles A James Bicycle Rental, 210-224-8717.

Helicopter Tours of Texas offers scenic tours high above the Texas Hill Country. www.helitourstx.com.

Rio San Antonio Cruises offers narrated, 40-minute barge trips along the San Antonio River. Purchase

tickets and board at Rivercenter Mall, Market Street bridge, Aztec Theatre river level or the Lock and Dam near Brooklyn Street bridge.

Office: 205 N. Presa St. 210-244-5700. www.riosanantonio.com.

VIA Bus Route 7 – the “Sightseer Special” – connects the Alamo, San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, San Antonio Zoo, Japanese Tea Garden, Brackenridge Park, and the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

210-362-2020. www.viainfo.net. ■

DAY TRIPPIN’ The following resources will help you plan family trips to Hill Country towns, state parks and the Texas coast.

General Information ■ Texas Travel Information Center, 800-452-9292. www.dot.state.tx.us/travel/information_centers.htm ■ Area Market Days – www.hillcountryportal.com/hillcountrymarketdays.html ■ Texas State Travel Guide – Free visitor information guide book, travel map and accommodations. 800-888-8839; www.traveltex.com Hill Country ■ Austin – www.austintexas.org; 800-926-2282 ■ Bandera – www.banderacowboycapital.com; 800-364-3833 ■ Boerne – www.visitboerne.org; 888-842-8080 ■ Fredericksburg – www.visitfredericksburgtx.com; 888-997-3600 ■ Gruene – www.gruenetexas.com; 830-629-5077 ■ Kerrville – www.kerrvilletexascvb.com; 800-221-7958 ■ New Braunfels – www.nbjumpin.com; 800-572-2626 Texas Parks and Camping ■ Texas Association of Campground Owners – www.texascampgrounds.com ■ Texas Outside – www.texasoutside.com ■ Texas Parks and Wildlife Department – www.tpwd.state.tx.us; for general state park information and literature: 800-792-1112; for reservations at state parks: 512-389-8900 Useful Websites ■ Fredericksburg Festivals – www.tex-fest.com ■ South Padre Island – www.sopadre.com ■ Texas Coastal Bend Regional Tourism Council – www.txcoastalbend.org ■ Texas Hill Country River Region – www.hillcountryrivers.com ■ Texas Travel – www.traveltex.com

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Zoo and Animal Encounters

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAN ANTONIO HUMANE SOCIETY

Fun With the Animals

Kids learn about caring for animals during Camp Humane.

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rea animal attractions offer many opportunities to see animals up-close and personal. And if your family has room for a homeless dog or cat, you can visit one of the local shelters and welcome a new pet into your home.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch features a drive through safari for viewing, photographing and feeding more than 50 species of exotic and rare animals from all over the world.

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Road, between San Antonio and New Braunfels. 830-438-7400. www.wildliferanchtexas.com.

San Antonio Zoo houses one of the largest animal collections in the country, with more than 3,500 animals representing 600 species on 56 acres. Miniature trains run on a two-mile route through Brackenridge Park. Trains can be boarded at the zoo, which is open 365 days a year. 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. in Brackenridge Park.

210-734-7184. www.sazoo.org.

Animal Care and Adoption Animal Care Services: City of San Antonio shelter offers pet adoption, spay/neutering, microchipping and low-cost vaccinations. Volunteers welcome. 4710 Texas 151. 210-2074738. www.sanantonio.gov/animalcare.

Animal Defense League: No-kill animal shelter provides low-cost vaccination and spay/ neuter services, microchipping, foster care program, free vaccinations for life for older adopted pets. 11300 Nacogdoches Road. 210-655-1481. www.adltexas.org.

Animal Friends Humane Society: A no-kill, nonprofit shelter offering pet adoptions with microchipping and spay/neutering. Volunteers welcome. IH 10 West exit 546, Fair Oaks Ranch. 830-981-2300. www.animalfriends4ever.org.

Guide Dogs of Texas: Nonprofit organization raises, trains and provides guide dogs for Texans who are visually impaired. Puppy Raiser Program uses volunteers to raise and socialize puppies at home until they are 14-16 months old.

1503 Allena Drive. 210-366 4081. www.guidedogsoftexas.org.

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance: Nonprofit• Animal Friends Humane Society group offers rescue, assistance, education programs and adoption. 900 N.E. Loop 410, Suite 311-D. 210-822-6763. www.responsiblepetowners.org.

San Antonio Humane Society: Pet adoptions, rescue, foster care, spay and neuter services, microchipping and Camp Humane, a humane education program for young people.

Animals accepted by appointment.

Teen volunteers welcome. 4804 Fredericksburg Road. 210-226-7461. www.sahumane.org.

S.N.A.P.: The non-profit SpayNeuter Assistance Program offers reduced-cost vaccinations and spay/neuter and microchipping services through mobile units.

For locations, call 210-673-7722.

Also, Surgery and Wellness Clinic offers reduced-cost spay and neuter, vaccinations, heartworm testing and prevention, flea prevention and microchipping. 6758 Ingram Road.

210-673-7722. www.snapus.org.

SpaySA: Nonprofit organization provides low-cost spay and neuter services for pets in Bexar County, including vaccinations prior to surgery.

5357 W. Commerce St. 210-351-7729. www.spaysa.org. ■

Dog Parks The city has five dog parks, with fenced off leash areas, doggie drinking fountains and agility equipment.

■ McAllister Dog Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger; ■ Pearsall Dog Park, 4700 Old Pearsall Road; ■ Phil Hardberger Dog Park East, 13203 Blanco Road; ■ Phil Hardberger Dog Park West, 8400 N.W. Military; ■ and Madison Square Dog Park, 400 Lexington. 210-207-8480.

■ Visit www.sanantonio. gov/parksandrec for more information.

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San Antonio Sports

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an Antonio Sports San Antonio is fortunate to have six professional sports organizations, the San Antonio Spurs, San Antonio Silver Stars, the San Antonio Rampage, the San Antonio Missions and the San Antonio Talons and the San Antonio Scorpions.

San Antonio Spurs – The Spurs’ season generally runs from October to mid-April. The season can extend through May if the team advances to the playoffs. For ticket information and a schedule go to the official Spurs website at www.nba.com/spurs.

San Antonio Silver Stars – The Silver Stars’ season is from May through August. Should the team make the playoffs, the season extends through September. For ticket information and a schedule go to the official Silver Stars website at www.wnba.com/silverstars.

San Antonio Missions – Missions’ baseball runs from April through September. If the team advances to the playoff the season extends to October. Visit the team’s official website at www.minorleaguebaseball.com/index. jsp?sid=t510 for tickets and schedule information.

San Antonio Rampage – The Rampage season runs from October through mid-April. The season can be extended through May should the team make the playoffs.

Go to the team’s official website at www.sarampage.com for a schedule and ticket information.

San Antonio Talons – The Talons, an Arena Football League franchise, completed its first season in San Antonio last year. The team’s 2013 season begins in March. Visit www.sanantoniotalons.com/tickets/ or call 855-SA-TALONS for ticket information.

San Antonio Scorpions – The Scorpions, a North American Soccer League franchise, opened it first season in San Antonio last year. The team’s 2013 season begins in April. The team will play in the newly constructed Toyota Field. As part of Soccer For A Cause, all net profits from Scorpions matches and season ticket sales go to benefit Morgan’s Wonderland and the special needs community.

Call 210-495-8686 for ticket information.

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Healthcare

There is No Place Like San Antonio San Antonio has some of the best hospitals in the country.

Audie L. Murphy Veterans Hospital 210-617-5300 Baptist Health System Baptist Medical Center 210-297-7000 Mission Trail Baptist Hospital 210-297-3000 Northeast Baptist Hospital 210-297-2000 North Central Baptist Hospital 210-297-4000 St. Luke’s Baptist Hospital 210-297-5000 San Antonio Military Medical Center (Formerly Brooke Army Medical Center) 210-916-4141 CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Medical Center, 210-705-6300 Children’s Hospital of San Antonio, 210-704-2011 CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Alamo Heights, 210-294-8000 CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Westover Hills, 210-703-8000 CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – New Braunfels, 830-606-9111 Methodist Healthcare System Methodist Children’s Hospital 210-575-0355 Methodist Heart Hospital 210-575-4000

Methodist Hospital 210-575-4000 Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital 210-575-8110 Methodist Stone Oak Hospital 210-638-2000 Methodist Texsan Hospital 210-736-6700 Metropolitan Methodist Hospital 210-757-2200 Northeast Methodist Hospital 210-757-7000 Nix Health Nix Medical Center 210- 271-1800 Nix Alamo Heights 210-824-3130 Southwest General Hospital 210-921-2000 University Health System 210-358-4000

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Books, Storytimes & More

P

Live Homework Help computer program, powered by Tutor.com, provides free online tutoring for grades 4-12 and College Intro in a safe, online environment. Certified subject specialists cover topics such as math, science, social studies and English. Tutors are available 3-10 p.m. daily in English; 3-9 p.m. Sun.-Thu. in Spanish. For more information, go to www.mysapl.org.

Libraries Bazan, 2200 W. Commerce St., 210-225-1614 Boerne, 210 N. Main St., Boerne, 830-249-3053 Brook Hollow, 530 Heimer, 210-496-6315 Carver, 3350 E. Commerce St., 210-225-7801 Central Library, 600 Soledad, 210-207-2500 Cody, 11441 Vance Jackson, 210-696-6396 Collins Garden, 200 N. Park, 210-225-0331 Cortez, 2803 Hunter, 210-922-7372 Forest Hills, 5245 Ingram Road, 210-431-2544 Great Northwest, 9050 Wellwood, 210-684-5251 Guerra, 7978 Military Drive West, 210-673-1492 Igo, 13330 Kyle Seale Parkway, 210-561-6113 Johnston, 6307 Sun Valley, 210-674-8410 Landa, 233 Bushnell, 210-732-8369 32

FYI | 2013

PHOTO BY XELENA GONZALEZ

ublic libraries and bookstores offer storytimes and children’s events to encourage reading and foster a love of books.

Kids enjoy story time and games with mom at branch library.

Las Palmas, 515 Castroville Road, 210-434-6394 Maverick, 8700 Mystic Park, 210-680-9346 McCreless, 1023 Ada, 210-532-4254 Memorial, 3222 Culebra, 210-432-6783 Mission, 3134 Roosevelt Ave, 210-207-2704 Pan American, 1122 W. Pyron, 210-924-8164 Parman at Stone Oak, 20735 Wilderness Oak, 210-207-2703 Pruitt at Roosevelt High School, 5110 Walzem Road, 210-650-1122 San Pedro, 1315 San Pedro Ave., 210-733-1454 Semmes, 15060 Judson Road, 210-650-9540 Thousand Oaks, 4618 Thousand Oaks, 210-657-5205 Tobin at Oakwell, 4134 Harry Wurzbach, 210-828-2569 Westfall, 6111 Rosedale Court, 210-344-2373

For Your Surfing Pleasure

Bookstores Barnes & Noble www.barnesandnoble.com.

■ Bandera, 11711 Bandera Road at Loop 1604, 210-521-9784 ■ Ingram Festival, 6065 N.W. Loop 410, 210-522-1340 ■ La Cantera, 15900 La Cantera Parkway, 210-558-2078 ■ Northwoods, 18030 U.S. 281 North, 210-490-0411 ■ San Pedro Crossing, 321 N.W. Loop 410, 210-342-0008 Half-Price Books, www.hpb.com.

■ Bandera, 11654 Bandera Road, 210-647-1103 ■ Broadway, 3207 Broadway, 210-822-4597 ■ Castle Hills, 125 N.W. Loop 410, 210-349-1429 ■ Huebner, 11255 Huebner Road, 210-558-3247 ■ Stone Ridge Market, 20821 U.S. 281 North, 210-545-3836 The Twig Bookshop, Full Goods Building, Pearl Stable complex, 200 E. Grayson, 210-826-5087, www.thetwig.com

Friendly Websites

S

afety on the Internet is a major concern for parents today. Below are some family- friendly Internet sites and/or browsers for kids, mom and dad. To read more about Internet safety visit: www.getnetwise.org and www.txssc.txstate.edu

For Kids www.bookadventure.org www.clubpenguin.com www.coolmath4kids.com www.storyplace.org www.funbrain.com www.kidzui.com (downloadable browser with free subscription) www.mathplayground.com www.nickjr.com (some activities are free, while others require subscription) www.scholastic.com/parents/play www.handipoints.com www.kidsknowit.com

For Mom www.parenthood.com or www.ourkidssanantonio.com www.themotherhood.com www.cookingplanit.com www.couponmom.com www.letstalkbabies.com www.scholastic.com/parents/play

For Dad PHOTO BY RUTH CHIEGO

www.parenthood.com or www.ourkidssanantonio.com www.letstalkbabies.com www.fatherville.com www.scholastic.com/parents/play

Youngsters display their creativity during San Antonio Library Chalk It Up activity.

2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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Parent Education & Support Groups

Helping Parents Through Education

Editor’s Note: While all attempts have been made to make these lists as accurate as possible, times and program availability may be subject to change. Please check information in advance to avoid disappointment. Also, be aware that some programs may have a fee.

Asthma Education Class: newborn characteristics, hospital Classes for individuals and routines, and illness and safety. Both families on the respiratory system, parents encouraged to attend. Baptist asthma triggers and medications.

Health System. 210-297-7000.

Children’s Hospital San Antonio. www.baptisthealthsystem.com.

210-704-2465.

Boot Camp for New Dads: Class Baby Care Class: Three-hour for expectant dads. Other classes single session class offered to parents available. Methodist Healthcare. in their last trimester. Includes 210-575-0355. www.sahealth.com. topics such as diapering and bathing, Child Protective Services: sleep and crying patterns, normal Informational meetings for families 34

FYI | 2013

interested in foster care and adoption. 3635 S.E. Military Drive.

210-337-3117.

Cooperative Parenting and Divorce: Course consists of eight weekly group meetings with other co-parents and a facilitator. This course is geared for parents having already completed other cooperative parenting classes, but are still having difficulty working with the other parent on matters related to their children after the relationship has ended. When successfully completed, this 16-hour course satisfies the court-ordered cooperative parenting class required of all persons going through divorce or a split in which children are involved.

Bexar Family Solutions. 210-320-2999.

Divorce Seminar: Four-hour seminar for divorcing parents as required by the Bexar County District Courts. Course covers explaining divorce to children, building a positive co-parenting relationship and managing co-parenting conflicts.

Certificate of completion given at the conclusion of the class. Center for Family Relations. 210-733-3349. www.centerforfamilyrelations.org.

Eva’s Heroes: After School program provides an inclusive environment for individuals 14-21 years of age to interact and learn with their peers, helps adolescents and young adults increase their ability to function independently and allows individuals to learn the value

Schools San Antonio is home to one medical school, the University of Texas Health Science Center and six institutions of higher education – Our Lady of the Lake University, St. Mary’s University, Trinity University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, University of the Incarnate Word and Texas A&M University at San Antonio. Wayland Baptist University also operates a satellite campus in San Antonio. Additionally, there are four community colleges – Northeast Lakeview, Northwest Vista, Palo Alto, St. Philip’s and San Antonio College – as well as a vast number of vocational and technical institutions. The city also has about 30 private and 30+ charter schools.

Public School Districts ■ Alamo Heights – 210-824-2483 ■ Boerne – 830-357-2000 ■ Comal – 830-221-2000 ■ East Central – 210-648-7861 ■ Edgewood – 210-444-4500 ■ Fort Sam Houston – 210-368-8700 ■ Harlandale – 210-989-4300 ■ Judson – 210-945-5100 ■ Lackland AFB – 210-357-5000 ■ Medina Valley – 830-931-2243

■ North East – 210-407-0000 ■ Northside – 210-397-8500 ■ Randolph AFB – 210-357-2300 ■ San Antonio – 210-554-2200 ■ Somerset – 866-852-9858 ■ South San Antonio – 210-977-7000 ■ Southside – 210-882-1600 ■ Southwest – 210-622-4300 ■ Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City – 210-945-6200 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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Parent Education & Support Groups of teamwork. A summer program is also offered. 210-694-9090. www.evasheroes.org.

Family Forward: Family Service Association programs throughout San Antonio include parenting skills, education and support. 210-431-7500.

Happy Lungs Asthma Management Program: Twelvemonth program for families and children ages 5-11 with asthma includes working with an asthma counselor in group or individual meetings to gain asthma management skills. Children’s Hospital San Antonio.

333 N. Santa Rosa. 210-704-2464.

Helping Children Cope With Divorce: Four-hour seminar for parents who are considering or experiencing divorce. Class teaches parents the different ways families experience divorce, typical reactions to divorce by parents and children and tips to help children copy with their emotions. Family Services Association.

210-299-2400. www.family-service.org.

Parent Education: A 10-week course offered at the Center for Family Relations aimed at reducing stress in the family and providing essential information regarding child development, nutrition and discipline. 210-733-3349. www.centerforfamilyrelations.org.

Pediatric CPR for Friends and Family: Infant/Child CPR Pediatric Basic Life Support & Basic First Aid is a non-certifying course designed for parents, grandparents or older siblings of infants and toddlers.

Methodist Healthcare. 210-575-0261. www.sahealth.com. Fee. Precious Minds New Connections: Parenting programs 36

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offered in English and Spanish at various locations. Includes childcare, meal and parenting book. Mexican American Unity Council. One-day pass to San Antonio Zoo and an H-E-B gift card given to participants completing the course. 210-978-0513 or 0519. www.mauc.org.

Precious Minds New Connections Parenting Classes: For parents of infants up to age 4. Jewish Community Center. Includes childcare.

210-302-6846. Free.

San Antonio Fatherhood Campaign: Support group, programs and class information referrals for supporting fathers of all ages and stages of life. 210-227-3463.

Sons to Dads: Helps prepare new dads as they transition into fatherhood.

Dads receive the education, tools and practical hands-on experience that encourages their confidence and fosters trust with their partners. Fee. Baptist Health System. 210-297-7000. www.baptisthealthsystem.com.

Women, Infant and Children (WIC) Programs: Ongoing open enrollment. WIC offices at several locations. 210-225-1870. Children’s Hospital San Antonio has a WIC program offering education and support. 210-704-4180.

Support Groups Editor’s Note: While all attempts have been made to make these lists as accurate as possible, times and program availability may be subject to change.

Please check information in advance to avoid disappointment.

Angels Away: Support for prenatal loss 7 to 8:30 p.m. third Thursday of every month. Children’s Hospital San

Antonio. Spiritual Care Department, 333 N. Santa Rosa St. 210-704-2181.

Education Support Group: Offers support, education and resources for families with children diagnosed or in the process of receiving a diagnosis of autism. 6:30 to 8 p.m. third Tuesdays of every month. Any Baby Can, 217 Howard St. 210-227-0170. http:// satxaspergersyndromesupportgroup. keepkidshealthy.com/.

Beyond Baby Blues: Support to help women of all ages deal with postpartum depression. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays. Resource Center, Methodist Healthcare System, 8109 Fredericksburg Road.

Registration required, 210575-0355 or toll-freee 800-333-7333. Fee. eavement Children’s Bereavement Center: Support for children, teens and young adults (3-24 years) who have experienced the death of a loved one. Also services for older adults and parents/guardians. 205 W. Olmos.

210-736-4847.

Domestic Violence Women’s Support Group: Support group for persons dealing with domestic violence. Men and women groups held separately. Individual counseling available. Group meets 6 p.m.

Thursday. Spanish Support Group, 5 p.m. Tuesday. Family Violence Prevention Services, 7911 Broadway.

210-821-3855.

Grief Share Support Group: 6:45 p.m. Tuesdays. Group resumes meeting in January 2013. First Baptist

Church of Universal City, 1401 Pat Booker Road. 210-658-6394.

Life After Loss: Free bereavement support program for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one within the past two years, regardless of the cause of death. Various locations. American Cancer Society.

210-614-4212.

MELD for Young MOMS: For young mothers and fathers age 23 and under with growing families. MELD (Mutual Enrichment through Learning and Discovery) provides parental and emotional support, information and referrals. City and regional groups meet weekly at various locatio Meals and locations. c childcare provided.

Free. For information on specific sites and meeting times, call 210-922-6922.

Mujeres Unidas Contra el SIDA: Bilingual support group for women who are HIV-infected and/or affected. Noon Thursday. Men’s group meet 6 p.m. Mondays. 307 E. Evergreen. 210-738-3393.

Muscular Dystrophy Association: Monthly support groups are offered for parents of children with neuromuscular diseases. Call 210-650-3181 for details.

S.O.S. (Survivors Offering Support): 7 p.m. first Tue. For women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and long-term cancer survivors. Spouses and relatives welcome. Northeast Methodist boardroom, 12709 Toepperwein. Fee. 210-575-0355. www.sahealth.com. ■ 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

E D U C AT I O N

MOUNT SACRED HEART SCHOOL PreK4-8th Grades

& San Antonio’s Only Catholic Montessori School Nationally Awarded 2½-5 years Accepting Applications for 12/13

Call for a Tour Today

210-342-6711

mountsacredheart.com 619 Mt. Sacred Heart Road, San Antonio, Texas 78216

Country Home Learning Center The Country Home Learning Center’s preschool program includes language development, number concepts, computers, science, social studies, music, creative arts, dramatic activities, and community speakers. The school offers an enriched Kinder/5-yearold program provided in an accelerated environment, by certified teachers and exceptionally small classes.

Students participate in the following extra-curricular activities: Waterpark, Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground, Putt-Putt Golf Course, Gym, 1950’s Style Soda Shop, Movie Theater, Computer Lab, Horseback Riding at Country Home Ranch. Area public school students also enjoy field trips on school holidays. Additionally, creative weekly themes add to the students cultural enrichment and total enjoyment. www.CountryHomeLearningCenter.com. Call 210-6871002 for locations and more information.

Keystone School

Silicon Drive Family Center Early Childhood Education vs. Daycare: Discover the difference

12621 Silicon Drive, Suite# 116 San Antonio, TX

210-477-4490 www.sdfc.biz

She won’t have to conform to our way of teaching.

We’ll conform to her way of learning.

Now enrolling for Spring 2013

4018 S. Presa St. | San Antonio, TX 78223 (210) 533-3655 newfrontierscharter.org

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FYI | 2013

Keystone School has been a part of the San Antonio education community since 1948. Our goal is to ensure the development of the total student. Keystone teachers engage, challenge, and support students on their educational journey. Keystone is also about connections.

It is a place where ideas, old and new, come together in the minds of students. It is a place where personalities connect and lifelong friendships are developed and flourish; and most importantly a place where students connect with their own strengths and challenges and

E D U C AT I O N grow in intellect and ability. Keystone offers a Lower School – kindergarten through 4th grade; Middle School – 5th through 8th grade; and Upper School – 9th through 12th grades.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Happy Acres Day Camp program. Only students enrolled in the pre-k program are eligible for camp as 4 year olds.

Henry Ford Academy

San Antonio Academy of Texas is open to boys in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. San Antonio Academy features small classes, a family-like atmosphere, a caring environment that allows for the development of a positive self-image and a foundation for life based on the love of God and country, integrity and respect for each other. San Antonio Academy offers a challenging academic program, character and leadership development family atmosphere, personal attention, development of a positive self-image, opportunity and almost 100 percent participation in a diverse array of after-school activities.

Henry Ford Academy: Alameda School for Art + Design (HFA: ASAD), San Antonio’s only college preparatory art and design high school that embraces art and design as a core subject. The school is committed to seeing that 100 percent of its students graduate and continue their education at a college or university.

The school offers qualified teachers, a small school structure, small class sizes, a culture of tolerance and respect, and a hands-on approach. The school extends learning into the community with college campus visits, guest speakers, and the exploration of local cultural institutions. Competitive sports programs and school-wide projects provide a well-rounded student experience.

Suburban School

Primrose Schools

The staff at Suburban School thinks a happy and successful childhood with clear expectations leads to a positive self-image. The school’s program is designed to be age-level appropriate, blending traditional and progressive styles of learning. Suburban School is a yearround school for ages 2 to 4. An enriched pre-school and kindergarten program is conducted for all children from September through May. During the summer, programming varies according to age level. Summer months are optional for 5 to 10 year olds in the school’s

You have great hopes for your child. And so does Primrose Schools. Primrose Schools offers a by nurturing environment. Primrose provides more than a daycare experience. It is an educational child care facility preparing children for academic success while integrating character development within its curriculum. Through its unique accredited curriculum: Balanced Learning®, Primrose Schools blend the two leading philosophies of teaching children. The first is a child-initiated approach, in which children are free to

San Antonio Academy

SHE’S ACHIEVED SO MUCH ALREADY, BUT THAT DOESN’T SURPRISE YOU. BECAUSE YOU’VE ALWAYS KNOWN SHE WOULD EXCEL. BECAUSE YOU BELIEVED IN HER. YOU HAVE

FAITH IN HER AND HER ABILITY TO GO FAR. AND WHEN SHE ARRIVES HERE, WE FURTHER HER POTENTIAL. BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IN HER. WE ALSO SEE ALL THAT SHE CAN BECOME AND WORK TO NURTURE HER THROUGH FAITH-BASED LEARNING AND SHARED BELIEFS ROOTED IN SISTERHOOD, ENSURING SHE NOT ONLY SUCCEEDS AT COLLEGE, BUT LEAVES WITH THE FAITH TO MOVE MOUNTAINS.

EXCEL

INCARNATE WORD HIGH SCHOOL OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS 210.829.3123 www.incarnatewordhs.org

Member of the UIW Brainpower Connection

2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

E D U C AT I O N

SAN ANTONIO ACADEMY

explore their individual interest with teacher support.

Second, is a teacher directed approach, in which an established curriculum leads children along a consistent learning path. At Primrose, the particular interests of each child serves as the springboard to healthy social, emotional, physical and academic development.

Trinity United Methodist School For most students, the elementary years make up about half of their school lives, the foundation for the years to come. Study habits are established and life-long attitudes are developed. Values are formed. Since 1886 The Academy has prepared young men to succeed in life.

www.sa-academy.org San Antonio Academy admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

733-7331 117 East French Place San Antonio, Texas 78212-5899

Accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest Member of the National Association of Independent School

Be honest. Be kind. Be the best you can be.®

Educating Boys for Life

Trinity United Methodist School provides academic excellence in a Christian environment for students ages 2 through 5th grade. Since 1969 Trinity has provided a vigorous academic program in a family atmosphere for students of average to exceptional ability.

Mount Sacred Heart School Mount Sacred Heart School has been a source of faith and education in San Antonio for more than 80 years. Mount Sacred Heart is a private, Catholic school operated in the spirit and tradition of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus called to witness the tenderness and compassion of the heart of Christ. It offers a Montessori program and traditional Pre-K through 8th grade curriculum. Mount Sacred Heart seeks the full development of a student’s spiritual and academic potential, fostering hearts capable of leadership and service. The school’s core values consist of community, compassion, integrity and service.

St. Monica Catholic School The mission of St. Monica Catholic School is to provide its students a challenging academic curriculum within a program where Catholic values reflecting God’s love are taught and practiced. The school recognizes each student as a valuable person created by God, entitled to the best efforts of the faculty in educating him or her. Through the curriculum and Catholic teachings the school seeks to lay the foundation necessary for students to become useful citizens. Children live and interpret every moment in the ongoing procession of school activity from the vantage point accessible to them – their own needs and background of experience. It is St. Monica’s aim to know and understand these needs and background in order to help its students realize their potential.

2012-2013

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E D U C AT I O N Goddard School for Early Childhood Development Watch your child develop into a happy, confident learner – ready for lifelong success.The educational childcare at the Goddard School surpasses traditional daycare. The Goddard’s accredited early childhood education programs helps children develop learning skills at a pace that supports their individual potential – from curious infant to exploring preschooler to confident kindergartener. Contact the Goddard School to find out how the school’s FLEX™ Learning Program can enrich your child’s emotional, social, intellectual and physical development while providing the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

the

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

acorn

A School For Young Children 3501 Broadway 78209 210-826-8804

• 5 to 1 Student/Teacher Ratio • Degreed Teachers • Developmentally Appropriate • 33 Yrs. Of Educating Children 3 thru Kg.

www.theacornschool.net

The Montessori School of San Antonio The mission of The Montessori School of San Antonio is to provide a personalized education, using the Montessori Method and philosophy, to support its students’ development while fostering a love of learning. The school’s educators view themselves as partners with parents, guiding students to achieve their full potential in academic, social, physical, intellectual, aesthetic and moral development from early childhood through adolescence. The school is guided by the following principles: personalized learning integration of curriculum, flexible scheduling, learning through doing, freedom with responsibility, cooperation and mutual respect, assessment based on exhibition of mastery, teacher as guide and student as learner.

Incarnate Word High School Educating young women since 1881, Incarnate Word High School is a private Catholic school for young women in grades 9 - 12. IWHS offers students outstanding academic programs, a vibrant student life, enriching spiritual development, competitive athletics programs and a dual enrollment opportunity at the University of the Incarnate Word. In the past three years IWHS students have earned $30 million in academic scholarships and provided over 100,000 hours of community service to San Antonio and the surrounding area. A young woman leaves Incarnate Word with an inquiring mind, confidence in her self-worth and the empowerment to make a difference. For more information call 210-829-3123 or visit www.incarnatewordhs.org.

St. Monica Catholic School

Early Pre-School thru 8th Grade • T.C.C.E.D. Accredited • Academic excellence • Leader in technology education • Middle school athletic program • Before and after school care • Summer Fun Program 515 North St. Converse, TX 78109

210-658-6701

www.saintmonica.net 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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AMUSEMENTS &

CLOTHING

ATTRACTIONS

Resale.......................................................... 49

Activities ..................................................... 45 Botanical Gardens....................................... 45 Children’s Museums .................................... 45

CHILDCARE Childcare .................................................... 50

Events.......................................................... 45 Field Trips .................................................... 45

EDUCATION Charter Schools......................................50-51

Museums .................................................... 45 Theatre ........................................................ 45

Preschools ..............................................51-53 Private Schools .......................................53-55 Special Needs Schools ................................ 55

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business Opportunities ............................... 45

Enrichment.................................................. 55

HEALTH Health ......................................................... 55 Dental Health ............................................. 55

CAMPS

Hospitals .................................................... 55

Family Camping .......................................... 46 Day Camps/Summer Programs .................... 46

PARTIES

Overnight Camps ........................................ 46

Party Destinations ....................................... 56 Party Entertainment ...............................56-57

CLASSES AND LESSONS Art .............................................................. 46

RESTAURANTS Restaurants ................................................. 57

Dance ........................................................ 47 Dance Supplies ........................................... 48 Fencing ....................................................... 48

SHELTERS Shelters ....................................................... 57

Gymnastics ................................................. 48 Pottery ........................................................ 49

TUTORING

Tennis .......................................................... 49

Tutoring ...................................................... 57

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FYI | 2013

FAMILY RESOURCES

Activities

AMUSEMENTS & ATTRACTIONS Activities Devine Acres 944 FM 2200W Devine, TX 78016 830-665-9730 www.devineacres.com Devine Acres is an agri-entertainment farm with seasons of fun!

• Pumpkin Extravaganza- Weekends in October-tons of pumpkins and fall family fun!

• Christmas on the Farm- Beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving-come out and choose-ncut your own tree out of our fields and begin a new tradition with your family!

• Field Trips- fall, winter and spring- teachers love the science oriented activities, structured rotations and hands-on approach to learning!

Botanical Gardens San Antonio Botanical Garden 210-829-5100 555 Funston, San Antonio, www.sabot.org Offering year-round fun! Spring break in the Garden, summer nature camps, “BOOtanica!

Fall Festival”, Little Sprout Mondays, Children’s Vegetable Garden and much more.

Botanical Society members enjoy free daily admission plus discounts on camps and special events.

Children’s Museums San Antonio Children’s Museum 210-212-4453 305 E. Houston, San Antonio, TX www.sakids.org Where children and adults play to learn. Over three floors of interactive exhibits along with daily, hands-on activities for your family to enjoy.

Business Opportunities

Fiesta Farms See listing under Party Destinations Paradise Canyon See listing under Family Camping

Museums McNay Art Museum 210-824-5368 6000 N. New Braunfels, San Antonio, TX www.mcnayart.org The McNay Art Museum, housed in what was the home of the late Marion Koogler McNay, focuses primarily on 19th- and 20th- century European and American artists including Cézanne, Picasso, Gauguin, Matisse, O’Keeffe, Cassatt, and Hopper. The museum’s collection of prints and drawings is one of the finest in the Southwest. Check the museum’s Web site for information about family activities, student tours, schedules and special events.

Theatre Magik Children’s Theatre 210-227-2751 420 S. Alamo, San Antonio www.magiktheatre.org Enjoy a unique and personalized birthday experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Call for reservations. Our season passes are a great deal for the whole family.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Work At Home United is looking for motivated people to join our team. We are dedicated to helping others reach their goals. We offer FREE training, support, and website. Flexible schedule, more time with family, no selling or deliveries. Get the details and change your future! Contact Michelle at 210-325-3691 www.FollowingOurDreams.com

Field Trips Boerne Gymnastics See listing under Classes and Lessons-Gymnastics Botanical Gardens See listing under Amusements and AttractionsBotanical Gardens Clay Casa See listing under Party Destinations Children’s Museum See listing under Amusements and AttractionsChildren’s Museums Devine Acres See listing under Amusements and Attractions

38-acres of outdoor gardens and indoor displays, art, music and special events, children’s classes and camps. Gift shop and restaurant.

Picnics welcome.

www.sabot.org 555 Funston @ North New Braunfels Ave (210) 207-3250 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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FAMILY RESOURCES

Activities Camps

CAMPS Family Camping Paradise Canyon 830-751-9911 2220 CR 2615, Rio Medina www.paradisecanyon.com Pack up the tent and the kids and head for Paradise Canyon! Bring your river clothes and fishing pole, your favorite foods and enjoy nature at its best. Great for group camp-outs.

Over night or day camping. Check our website for details about our facility.

Day Camps/Summer Programs Alamo Fencing See listing under Classes and Lessons-Fencing Boerne Gymnastics See listing under Classes and Lessons-Gymnastics The Clowvazar Academy Archaeology, Architecture, Special Needs www.clowvazar.com 210-690-4800 Archæology, Architecture, and Special Needs.

Each camp focuses on skill and knowledge

Classes andActivities Lessons

building to prepare students for advancements into careers, college, or in the case of special needs socialization. Apply online.

Green Tree Tennis See listing under Classes and Lessons-Tennis The Little Gym See listing under Classes and Lessons-Gymnastics San Antonio Academy See listing under Education-Private Schools San Antonio Botanical Gardens See listing under Amusements and AttractionsBotanical Gardens

Overnight Camps The Clowvazar Academy Archaeology, Architecture, Special Needs www.clowvazar.com 210-690-4800 Archæology, Architecture, and Special Needs.

Each camp focuses on skill and knowledge building to prepare students for advancements into careers, college, or in the case of special needs socialization. Apply online.

Heart of the Hills 830-238-4650 2430 Hwy 39, Hunt www.hohcamp.com Girls 6 - 16, Guadalupe River, air conditioned.

Family style dining, character-building atmosphere, worldwide enrollment, personable!

Fun, instruction-oriented, offering more than 40 activities. Family owned and operated.

Celebrate 19 years of Magik during our 2012-2013 2 3 season!

Season Passes Treat your family to a season pass for only deal in San Antonio.

Birthday Parties When you celebrate your birthday with us, we promise a unique, personalized experience your whole family can enjoy.

Call us to reserve your next birthday party.

420 South Alamo • San Antonio, TX 78205 210.227.2751 • Magiktheatre.org

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Camp Stewart 830-238-4650 2430 Hwy 39, Hunt www.campstewart.com For boys 6 - 16, wholesome fun, growth, 70 plus activities. Ragsdale family owned, operated, outstanding role model counselors, worldwide enrollment, home-style cooking, North Fork, Guadalupe River.

CLASSES AND LESSONS Art Sunin Clay Studio 210-494-9100 13473 Wetmore Road, San Antonio, TX www.suninclaystudio.net suninpottery@sbcglobal.net Sunin Clay Studio will introduce the world

FAMILY RESOURCES

Activities Art

Activities Dance

of pottery and clay to anyone with pottery knowledge/experience or just a curiosity of the art with classes and a nurturing well-equipped studio and gallery.

Dance Bravo! Ballet School 210-818-4999 2147 NW Military Hwy., San Antonio Info@bravoballetschool.com www.bravoballetschool.com Whether for pure enjoyment or professional pursuits, the Bravo! Ballet School combines artistic expression and proper technique with physical discipline to develop coordination, self-confidence, and a mastery of fundamental and advanced movements in a safe and nurturing environment. Baby Ballet * Primary Ballet * Ballet 1 – 5.

Dance Plus 210-496-1687 2824 Thousand Oaks, San Antonio, TX danceplussanantonio.com danceplussa@aol.com Dance Plus is a Christian school which emphasizes building self esteem and confidence. Our classes teach the fundamentals needed for a strong dance foundation.

Apparel for Dance & Gymnastics

Bodywear & Shoes for Children thru Adults

Dorothy’s Dance Shop 3 Locations: 1532 Austin Hwy. 11255 Huebner Rd. #107 434 N. Loop 1064 W, #1102

829-8454

558-4200

545-4700

www.dorothysdanceshop.net

Dorothy Keck Dancers 210-829-8454 1532 Austin Hwy, San Antonio www.dorothykeckdancers.com Beginner through advanced levels of tap, ballet, jazz, hip-hop and acrobatics. Ages 3 through adult.

We specialize in children’s dance instruction.

San Antonio Dance Academy 210-341-7574 15714 Huebner Rd. Bldg 4, San Antonio www.sadance.info sada@sadance.info Offering classes in Ballet, Jazz, Mexican Folkloric, Ballroom, Tap, Flamenco and Boys Dance. Our beautiful new studio is a nurturing atmosphere for children and adults. Call or visit our website for more information.

San Antonio School for the Performing Arts 210-495-ARTS 12915 Jones Maltsberger, Suite 200 Saspa5678@yahoo.com www.sanantonioschoolfortheperformingarts.com SASPA offers professional taught classes in the following disciplines: Dance basics for 3 – 6 year olds, Classical Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Partnering, Home School student classes, Flamenco, Folklorico, Scottish Highland, Hip

SANDRA BRAVO Director

2147 NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX 78213

Ph. 210.818.4999 sandra@bravoballetschool.com www.bravoballetschool.com ourkidssanantonio.com • FYI 2012 45 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com 45

FAMILY RESOURCES

Activities Dance

Gymnastics Activities

Hop, Tap, Acting and Zumba, SASPA also offers private music disciplines and we offer summer camps as well. Visit our website for more information.

REGISTRATION IN PROGRESS

• 9-Week Sessions • Morning & Afternoon Classes • Ages 18 months - 18 years • Preschool Gymnastics • Competition Gymnastics • Wide Variety of Times for 3-4 Year Olds • Tumbling • Cheerleading • Classes & Teams • Open Gym for Play M M & W @ 10:30 • Sat @ 9 & 11am $5/child Recreational Gymnastics Skill Development & Fun For Beginners To Advanced Gymnasts

826-4296 6925 Sunbelt Dr. East 78218 www.olympiakids.com

Gymnastics skills that improve independence and coordination.

Or in their words,

The Little Gym ages 4 months through 12 years reach their greatest potential.

Structured lessons, unique themes and a nurturing environment build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Call or schedule a free introductory class online.

NE San Antonio 545-3770 Alamo Heights 822-9252 www.thelittlegym.com

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Dance Supplies Dorothy’s Dance Shop 210-829-8489 1532 Austin Hwy, San Antonio www.dorothysdanceshop.com dorothysdanceshop1@sbcglobal.net Apparel for dance, fitness gymnastics & skating.

Fencing Alamo Fencing Academy 210-260-3804 961 Isom, San Antonio afacoach@yahoo.com Alamo Fencing Academy is a family oriented, fencing school, fencing club and training center. We offer all levels of fencing classes for those who just want to fence for fun and fencing training for those who wish to participate in competitive fencing.

Gymnastics Boerne Gymnastics 830-816-9496 105 Stonegate Rd., Boerne www.boernegym.com flipout@peoplepc.com Boerne Gymnastics Center offers classes in gymnastics, acrobatics, tumbling and trampoline, circus arts, indoor/outdoor climbing. Classes for toddlers - adults - beginners - USAG teams.

Olympia Gymnastics 210-826-4296 6925 Sunbelt Drive East, San Antonio www.olympiakids.com olympiagym@sbcglobal.net Offering preschool recreational and competitive gymnastics and tumbling, cheerleading and Munchkin’s Day Out! Providing a fun and positive environment for each and every student.

River City Gymnastics 210-946-8256 103 Kneupper, Converse www.rivercitygymnastics.info Classes for 18 months to 18 years in our spacious, convenient facility. Air-conditioned, very clean, equipment for all ages and experienced staff ready to meet your child’s needs.

FAMILY RESOURCES

Activities Gymnastics

The Little Gym - NE San Antonio 210-545-3770 2941 Thousand Oaks, San Antonio The Little Gym – Alamo Heights 210-822-9252 5320 Broadway, San Antonio www.thelittlegym.com The Little gym offers fun, noncompetitive gymnastic classes for infants through 12, sports skills, dance, karate, cheer, awesome birthday bashes and summer and holiday camps.

Pottery Castroville Pottery Gallery & Studio 830-538-9705 1215 Fiorella Street, Castroville www.castrovillepottery.com From year round Clay Dates to intermediate throwing classes, Castroville Pottery offers something for everyone. Classes in hand building, throwing, glazing and different types of firing will be offered at reasonable prices and taught by expert potters. Castroville Pottery’s Gallery offers a variety of elegant ceramics, rustic pottery, folk art and fine gifts made by artisans from across south Texas. Our products include handmade plates, bowls, cups, dishes, platters, vases, soaps, oils, jewelry and additional functional and decorative gifts.

Activities Clothing

We buy ALL seasons ALL of the time!

M-F - 9:30am - 7:30pm Sat. - 10:00am - 6:00pm Sun. - Noon - 5:00pm 16646 San Pedro Ave • San Antonio • TX (Us Hwy. 281 N @ Thousand Oaks) • 210-490-6822

www.onceuponachildSanAntonio.com

River City Gymnastics & Cheerleading We offer recreational gymnastics classes for boys and girls ages 2 and up and a Girls USAG competitive program for beginners to advanced.

We also offer Tumbling classes and All-Star Cheer program, Cheer Prep classes, fun Birthday Parties & more.

103 Kneupper St. Converse, TX • (210) 946-8256

www.RiverCityGymnastics.info

CASTROVILLE POTTERY Gallery and Studio

Tennis Green Tree Tennis Club 210-681-5261 4721 Callaghan Rd., San Antonio, TX www.greentreetenis.com Weekly sessions, save money on discount package pricing. Weekly sports camp, tennis & swimming camp, swim lessons for all ages and levels. Perfect for company picnics! Also ask about our children’s birthday packages.

Children's Programs • Clay Play Date - Every Saturday Kids and Parents welcome • Summer Programs

Studio Classes • Experienced Professional Pottery Instructors • Throwing Pottery - Hand-building Alternative Firing Techniques • Introduction, Beginner and Intermediate levels See schedules online or call

Visit our Gallery

CLOTHING Resale Once Upon a Child 210-490-6822 16646 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX ouacsa@yahoo.com www.OnceUponAChildSanAntonio.com We buy and sell gently used clothes, toys and equipment. We buy ALL SEASONS - ALL THE TIME!!

• • • •

Beautiful and Unique Gifts Fine selection of handmade Stoneware Guest Artists and Demonstrations Bridal Registery

Shop on line or Come Visit!

1215 Fiorella St. Castroville, TX

830-538-9705 www.castrovillepottery.com ourkidssanantonio.com • FYI 2012 47 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com 47

FAMILY RESOURCES

Activities Childcare

CHILDCARE Country Home Learning Center www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Call 210-687-1002 for nearby location Since 1982, Country Home Learning Center has provided the very best in quality childcare for ages 6 weeks to 13 years, with exceptionally small classes. We offer an innovative, comprehensive educational program in a firstclass facility. Students enjoy our | Waterpark | Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground | Putt-Putt Golf Course | Gymnasium | 1950’s-Style Soda

Education Activities

Shop | Movie Theater | Computer Lab | Horseback Riding at Country Home Ranch. Our warm and caring staff utilizes a professional curriculum and the very best in educational toys and equipment!

The Pillars Christian Learning Center 210-523-2613 11040 Reed Rd., San Antonio www.thepillarsclc.com We accept children ages 6 weeks – kindergarten with an after school program for children up to 12. Our lead teachers are degreed in child development or have child development associate credentials. We offer industry leading A Beka curriculum. CCDS accepted.

EDUCATION Charter Schools City Center Health Careers 210-255-8265 1114 Willow St. www.citycenterhc.org City Center Health Careers is a college preparatory public school for students grades 6 through 1 with emphasis on Science and Math skills development.

This well rounded offers extracurricular activities, tutoring and career counseling.

Country Home Learning Center

An Exceptional Child Care Facility Full and Part-time Programs for Infants and Children up to age 13 • Professionally Designed Accredited Preschool Curriculum • Country Home Waterpark and Splashdeck • Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground • Large Gymnasium and Basketball Court • Putt-Putt Golf Course • Arts and Crafts Lab • 1950ʼs Style Soda Shop • Computer Lab • Country Home Movie Theater • Horseback Riding and Petting Zoo at Adventure Quest

8 San Antonio Locations to Serve You • Now Enrolling Fully Accredited by AdvancED, a worldwide organization "Advancing Excellence in Education"

210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com 48

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Charter ActivitiesSchools

FAMILY RESOURCES

New Frontiers Charter School 210-533-3655 4018 South Presa, San Antonio www.newfrontierscharter.org New Frontiers Charter School is an open enrollment charter Elementary and Middle School operated by a dedicated staff of individuals who care to make a difference in the education of your children. We currently serve kindergarten through 8th grade. We welcome you to peek into the New Frontiers Family.

The Brooks Academy of Science and Engineering 210-633-9006 3803 Lyster Road, San Antonio www.brooksacademy.org The long term vision for Brooks Academy of Science and Engineering is to build and develop a school for students who aspire to achieve above and beyond what they would otherwise be capable of in a traditional public school environment.

The Henry Ford Academy 210-226-4031 439 Arbor Place, San Antonio www.asad.hfli.org Henry Ford Academy: Alameda School Art + Design (HFA: ASAD) is committed to

Preschools Activities

preparing every student academically for college success. Our learning community instills professional expectations, embraces community connections, and values art, design, and creativity as essential to our high school’s college-bound culture.

The School of Excellence in Education 210-431-9881 802 Oblate, San Antonio, TX www.excellence-sa.org A highly accredited Charter School where the goal is to prepare students for High School graduation.

This is done by developing self-discipline and challenging the students academically.

PRESCHOOLS Goddard School 210-494-2779 21785 Hardy Oak Blvd., San Antonio, TX www.goddardschool.com At the Goddard School professional teachers support the healthy development of children from six weeks to six years and encourage each child’s life long love of learning.

City Center Health Careers

F TUITREE ION

A College Preparatory Public School Enrolling for 2012-2013 School Year Grades 6-12 • Emphasis on Science and Math skills development • College Readiness and Career Counseling • Extracurricular Activities and Tutoring • Dual Credit and AP Classes

210-255-8265 • www.citycenterhc.org 1114 Willow Street • St. Patrick’s Catholic Church ourkidssanantonio.com • FYI 2012 49 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com 49

Preschools Activities

FAMILY RESOURCES

Primrose School at Sonoma Ranch 210-372-1488 14875 Kyle Seale Pkwy., San Antonio, TX www.myprimroseschool.com/sonomaranch Providing quality Early Childhood Education, including an accredited Kindergarten program for parents seeking intimate private kinder options for 5’s and old 4’s. Proprietary Balanced Learning® curriculum promotes academic, social and personal growth.

Primrose School of Huebner Village 210-479-9200 2410 Huebner Park, San Antonio, TX www.myprimroseschool.com/huebnervillage We encourage you to visit our Primrose School to learn about our highly successful early education programs and approaches that will deliver joy and enrichment for your child on a daily basis, prepare them for school and for life, and promote your family’s balance.

Primrose School of Cibolo Canyons 210-479-7099 3330 TPC Parkway, San Antonio, TX www.myprimroseschool.com/cibolocanyons Providing quality Early Childhood Education, including an accredited Kindergarten program for parents seeking intimate private kinder

Brooks Academy An Integrated K-12 Instructional Program

Now Enrolling for 2012-13 • Emphasis on Science and Math Skills Development • Limited Enrollment • Participate in UIL academic and athletic activities • College Readiness Program

Apply online at www.brooksacademy.org or Call 210-633-9006 50

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Preschools Activities

options for 5’s and old 4’s. Proprietary Balanced Learning® curriculum promotes academic, social and personal growth.

Silicon Drive Family Center 210-477-4490 12621 Silicon Drive ste116, San Antonio www.sdfc.biz jherring@sdfamilycenter.com Silicon Drive Family Center has been a high quality early childhood program since 2001.

NAEYC accredited. Teaching infants through age 5.

The Acorn – A School for Young Children 210-826-8894 3501 Broadway, San Antonio acornschool@satx.rr.com The Acorn is a private, non-profit corporation with 501 © (3) charitable status, offering preschool and Kindergarten programs. The School was established in 1980 by Rich and Kitty Lange. Housed in a wonderful home which was built in 1918. The Acorn provides a warm, nurturing environment for its students.

Our shaded playground offers a safe place for children to run, climb, swing, ride wheel toys, garden, play in our vast sand area, and make may science and nature discoveries. Children learn through play, and in our well-planned environment each child has the opportunity to do just that! Happy sounds abound as they interact, create and explore.

The Suburban School – Happy Acres Camp 210-696-0213 5409 Encino Park Road, San Antonio general@suburbanschool.com www.suburbanschool.com Suburban School is a year-round School for two-year-olds through four-year-olds. An enriched pre-school and kindergarten program is conducted for all children from September through May. During the summer, programming varies according to age level. Summer months are optional for five through 10-year-olds in our Happy Acres Day Camp program (only students enrolled in our pre-k program are eligible for camp as four-year-olds). Suburban School, a place where children can learn in a unique, natural setting and are encouraged to become independent, caring individuals.

Trinity United Methodist Preschool 210-684-5214 5319 Newcome Drive, San Antonio www.trinityums.org Trinity United Methodist School provides academic excellence in a Christian environment for students age two through

Activities Preschools

FAMILY RESOURCES

Pre-K. At Trinity United Methodist School (TUMS), we work hard to insure that each child’s individuality is recognized. Our curriculum goals are to have our children emerge from our program with a very positive self-image, a respect for the differences that exist between themselves and their classmates, and the feeling that they can accomplish whatever task they wish to pursue.

PrivateActivities Schools

EST. 1963

Private Schools River City Believer’s Academy 210-657-7731 13714 Lookout Rd, San Antonio www.believers-academy.org Preparing students for life for over 25 years.

Biblical based environment, serving students K -12th. Accredited by ACSI. Central Catholic 210-225-6794 1403 N. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio www.cchs-satx.org admissions@cchs-satx.org Giving young men the advantage since 1852.

Central Catholic is currently the only allmale high school in San Antonio. A college preparatory taught in the Marianst tradition.

❖ 18 Months – Kindergarten ❖ Afterschool Care 1st through 5th grades ❖ Summer Camp 5 through 10 year olds ❖ Located on six wooded acres with pool

(210) 696-0213 www.suburbanschool.com Babcock and Huebner area

Hill Country Montessori School 830-229-5377 50 Stone Wall, Boerne, TX www.hcmontessori.org As a school community committed to providing children of the Texas Hill Country with an excellent Montessori education, we put great emphasis on ensuring we remain true to the Montessori philosophy and true to our mission.

We accomplish this by continual self-evaluation and school improvement via professional development of our faculty, staff, and board and extending that new-found knowledge to our families through various community meetings and events.

Incarnate Word High School 210-829-3100 727 E. Hildebrand, San Antonio www.incarnatewordhs.org Rooted in the mission of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, IWHS promotes a thorough knowledge of the Catholic faith. Through a faith-based intellectually rigorous curriculum, the school provides opportunities for each student to develop self-discipline and all the dimensions of her person: intellectual, spiritual, moral, social, athletic, and aesthetic. The school encourages young women to be confident and strong citizens of our nation as well as the global community.

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Activities Private Schools

FAMILY RESOURCES

PrivateActivities Schools

Keystone School 210-735-4022 119 East Craig, San Antonio www.keystoneschool.org admissions@keystoneschool.org Accelerated curriculum. Plus art, music, dramatics, computer and science labs, library facilities, athletics, languages. Experienced teachers. Grades K - 12. Where academic excellence is a way of life.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help 210-651-6811 16075 N. Evans Rd. Claudia/Day Care/ 651-6819, Selma www.olphselma.org The mission of Our Lady of Perpetual Help School is to fulfill the educational ministry of the Catholic Church. We are an extension of the family and offer a Christian learning experience within a safe environment.

Montessori Schoolhouse 210-341-0731 10711 Dreamland Dr., San Antonio www.mymontessorischoolhouse.com We offer a stimulating environment in traditional Montessori curriculum with music, Spanish and motor skills programs. Before and after school care available. Accepting ages 18 months to 9 years.

Providence 210-224-6651 1215 N St. Marys, San Antonio www.providencehs.net A college preparatory curriculum for girls grades 6-12. Our core values: Strive for Excellence, Nourish Faith in God, Practice Integrity and Work for Justice.

Mount Sacred Heart School 210-342-6711 619 Mt. Sacred Heart Rd., San Antonio, TX www.msheagles.com Mount Sacred Heart Montessori Program operates as a coeducational program for children 2 to 5 years of age. It is the only Catholic Montessori School in San Antonio.

Mount Sacred Heart School offers classes for students from PreK through 8th grade.

San Antonio Academy 210-733-7331 117 East French Place, San Antonio www.sa-academy.org San Antonio Academy educates Pre-K thru eighth grade boys to succeed in life scholastically, emotionally and physically. At the Academy, boys discover that it is awesome to be smart, loving and hard working.

San Antonio Country Day School 210-496-6033 4194 Jung Rd., San Antonio, TX countrydayschool.net The San Antonio Country Day School provides a rich and peaceful Montessori environment for children 2 years through fifth grade.

Preschoolers are offered, two, three or five days per week. Call today for a tour.

St. Monica Catholic School 210-658-6701 515 North St., Converse, TX http://www.saintmonica.net/ At St. Monica our mission is to provide all students a challenging academic curriculum with in a program where Christian values reflecting God’s love are taught, practiced and ever present.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Montessori School 210-271-2861 1018 E. Grayson, San Antonio www.stpauls-satx.org A Montessori School providing outstanding educational opportunity to culturally and economically diverse children. Also offering after-school arts and Spanish and daily chapel.

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St. Peter Prince of the Apostles School 210-824-3171 112 Marcia Place, San Antonio alauder@msn.com; redgington@satx.rr.com

Activities Private Schools

FAMILY RESOURCES

St. Peter Prince of the Apostle Catholic School was established in 1926. Emphasis on strong academic for PreK3 to 8th grade. Before and after school care available.

The Circle School 210-822-0461 217 Pershing, San Antonio, TX www.thecircleschool.org The Circle School is a non-profit 501 (3), independent preschool and elementary in a family cooperative environment. Currently we provide programs for children ages 3 to 9.

The Montessori School of San Antonio 210-492-3553 17722 Rogers Ranch Pkwy., San Antonio www.montesorisa.org A personalized education, using the Montessori Method and philosophy to support each student’s development, while fostering a love of learning. Ages 3-14. Offering the full range of core academics, music, the arts, Spanish, athletics, outdoor education, after-school activities, and summer camps. We are proud of our proven record of academic excellence.

Winston School, The 210-615-6544 8565 Ewing Halsell, San Antonio, TX The Winston School San Antonio offers a college-preparatory curriculum for K through 12 students of average to superior intelligence with learning differences. ISAS and SACS accredited.

Activities Health

to be strong, smart and bold.” Girls Inc. reaches out to all girls in the San Antonio area.

With programs that are research based and field tested, our organization celebrates and empowers girls and advocates for an equitable world.

HEALTH Health City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health Dept.

210-207-8790 www.sanantonio.gov/immunizations The Mission of the Metro Health Immunization Program is to prevent and control transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases in persons of all ages with emphasis on individuals at highest risk for under immunizations.

Dental Health Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry 210-822-8381 999 E. Basse Road, Suite 116,San Antonio, TX Our office is set up to create a place that children will love to visit.

Special Needs Schools Sunshine Cottage 210-824-0579 103 Tuleta, San Antonio www.sunshinecottage.org Sunshine cottage teaches students with hearing impairments (PreK through 12th grade) using the auditory oral method. Newborn hearing screening available by appointment. Parentinfant program for birth - 3 years.

The Clowvazar Academy 6391 DeZavala # 202 San Antonio, TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com (210) 690-4800 Affordable, year-round Special Education accepting enrollment for ages 6-11. Expect small class sizes and personalized curriculum to fit your child’s needs.

Enrichment Girls Inc. 210-212-2576 1209 S. Saint Mary’s www.girlsincsa.com Girls inc. of San Antonio “Inspires all girls

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FAMILY RESOURCES

Hospitals Activities

Hospitals Methodist Stone Oak Hospital 210-638-2100 1139 E Sonterra Blvd, San Antonio, TX www.stoneoakhealth.com As a “next generation” hospital, specific infrastructure designs will reflect very different thinking about how hospitals are organized in face of rapidly changing ways patients are diagnosed and treated. An emergency center designed to serve adults and children will incorporate design and infrastructure changes to enhance the patient/family experience. The hospital will offer the trusted choice of quality Methodist Women’s Health for the first time in the North Central area, featuring a birthing center with unrivaled services designed to enhance this miraculous experience.

PARTIES Party Destinations Fiesta Farm 210-316-3166 8497 FM1560N, San Antonio www.fiestafarmlc.com gloriaduhaime@sbcglobal.net Fantastic Farm where children touch and learn about animals. Open to public, great birthday parties and fun pony rides. Come visit!

Funtastic Playland 210-979-7529 7142 San Pedro Ave., Suite 112 San Antonio www.funtasticplayland.com Where kids’ imaginations run wild!

Indoor play and private party rooms.

Magik Children’s Theatre 210-227-2751 420 S. Alamo, San Antonio www.magiktheatre.org Enjoy a unique and personalized birthday experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Call for reservations. Our season passes are a great deal for the whole family.

World of Witte Birthday Parties “Always an Adventure”

Call today to book your child’s adventure!

210.357.1866 6 3801 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209

www.WitteMuseum.org g

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Party Entertainment Activities

The Witte Museum 210-357-1866 3801 Broadway, San Antonio www.wittemuseum.org Have a one of a kind party experience at the Witte Museum. It’s educational, fun and an extraordinary venue for a birthday celebration and one that every child will remember for years to come! Come join us for your next party!

Party Entertainment Balloonamations 210-734-9860 P.O. Box 33382, San Antonio www.balloonamations.com balloonboss@gmail.com Balloon artists, face painters, clowns for kids parties, family entertainment and corporate events.

Batman Party Entertainer 210-385-2541 www.batmanentertainer.com Invite this super hero to your next party.

Classical Magic Productions 210-927-2025 San Antonio www.paulmims.com Claude Crowe the Magician 210-227-5505 Need entertainment?

Magician Claude Crowe fascinates all ages with his mystery and comedy performance.

No occasion too big. No occasion too small.

Inquire today!

Funny Bone Bounce & Balloon Bouquet 210-490-3866 (210) 490-FUNNY agarza@rnschnitzler.com Jams Bouncers Jumpalooza 210-364-3043 7575 Hwy 87E, China Grove www.jamsbouncers.com We are an indoor moonwalk arena that services in San Antonio, China Grove, Adkins, La Vernia, Floresville and everywhere in between.

Whether your looking for a place to allow your kids to jump and have fun or a place to have your party, call us or stop by our location and will be happy to assist you.

Jump and Party Events 210-849-8168 www.jumpandpartyevents.com day@jumpandpartyevents.com Party rental experts with inflatables, moonwalks, concessions and games for home,

Party Activities Entertainment

FAMILY RESOURCES

business, festivals or fundraisers. We have castles, slides, obstacles, bungees and more!

Visit our website or call!

Lou Lou the Clown 210-509-4041 Five party packages with adult involvement, prizes for adults and kids, contests, balloons, magic, customized birthday certificate, family picture, costume characters, company events, grand openings Pony Express Pony Rides 210-887-6406 www.ponyexpress1.com ponyexpressponyrides@yahoo.com Royal Tea Princess Parties 830-377-1139 www.royalteaprincessparties.com info@royalteaprincessparties.com Magical princess tea parties complete with princess hostess, dressup, manners, coronation, games, dancing and tea party. Glamour, spa, fairy, sock hop and stuff-a-bear parties too!

RESTAURANTS Acadiana Café 210-674-0019 1289 S.W Loop 410 www.acadianacafe.com Get one Free kids meal from the kiddie menu for kids under 6 with each adult entree purchased at our family friendly restaurant.

Seafood, catfish, Cajun and country cooking.

Open 7 days a week.

SHELTERS Shelter The Children’s Shelter – iParent SA Program 210-212-2576 Crisis Line (24 hours) 210-383-3239

Activities Tutoring

www.childrensshelter.org Responding to the need for services in our community to reduce child maltreatment, and to bolster familial relationships and economic stability, The Children’s Shelter created the iParent SA program, a comprehensive parenting and family strengthening program with immediate and long term outcomes. Parents with children of all ages may enroll in iParent SA. Highly trained and qualified Parent Educators work with families to facilitate evidence-based parent education curricula; the evidence-based Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (S.T.E.P.) curricula to reduce child abuse and help parents become their child’s first teacher.

TUTORING Inspiring Excellence Gail N. Saunders 210-509-7951 Inspiring Excellence is the result of many successful years teaching students with their parents. I provide a very positive environment which helps them believe that success is achievable. I can teach in A relatively short amount of time with lots of strategies that will help your child continue to be successful!

iParent SA Program iParent SA is a program of The Children’ s Shelter and funded in part

by Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Who is eligible?

Parents with children ages 0 to 17 iParent offers you: • Parenting Training (Individual or Group-Based) • Family Enrichment Activities • Case Management • Crisis Intervention • Emergency Day/ Night Respite (Temporary Relief During Stressful Times) Contact: (210) 212-2576 Crisis Line: (210) 383-3239 (OPEN 24/7)

www.childrensshelter.org

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Why Choose Primrose ?

Just Ask a Mom. “ ®

®

My children are learning things I never imagined they could learn at this point in their lives. My preschooler can write his name and recite his alphabet and numbers. I also have a 15-month old

“

who is learning his shapes and colors. It’s just amazing how much Primrose is teaching my children.

Jude & Ethan’s Mom, Primrose Parent

Proprietary Balanced Learning® System Ongoing customized student assessment Integrated character development program

PrimroseSonomaRanch.com

Primrose School of Huebner Village PrimroseHuebnerVillage.com

Primrose School at Cibolo Canyons PrimroseCiboloCanyons.com

Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School

Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2012 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

Primrose School at Sonoma Ranch