Our Kids Magazine October 2019

The Go-To Resource for San Antonio Families Since 1985

FREE October 2019

6 Halloween Tips & Tricks for Allergic Kids Helping Kids

Test Their Best

STEAM Projects to Fall for this Autumn

n o i t a Educ ide Gu

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CONTENTS

October 2019

volume 35 • number10

6 8 12 20 22 24

SIX HALLOWEEN TRICKS FOR YOUR ALLERGIC KID

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3 AUTUMN STEAM PROJECTS TO FALL FOR HELPING KIDS TEST THEIR BEST CARING FOR THE CARETAKER:

HOW TO SUPPORT PARENTS OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN Magazine

9 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR CHILD’S IMMUNE SYSTEM

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Magazine

CALENDAR

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PUBLISHER Rudy Riojas 210-526-0312

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DISTRIBUTION Taspas Delivery

P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 210-305-4181 ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski 210-209-8673

Magazine

On the Cover

2019 Cover Kids Winner STAR ROJAS “PEACOCK” Cover Photo by: CHRISTY WADE PHOTOGRAPHY, BASED OUT OF ODESSA

Amy Sugarman 210-987-2202

OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC is a locally owned magazine published monthly. 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 persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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JOJO SIWA:

SWEET CELEBRATIONS The RJoJo Siwa, celebrates her dream-worthy birthday with a one-of-a-kind celebration.

In the new DVD, JoJo Siwa: Sweet Celebrations available September 17, 2019, JoJo embarks on the most epic 24 hours of her life filled with special guests and big surprises leading up to a birthday party she’ll never forget. The DVD also includes six episodes from JoJo’s animated YouTube series “The JoJo & BowBow Show Show,” which follows the adventures of JoJo and her dog BowBow.

Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue

The PAW Patrol is shifting into high-gear in PAW Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue, an all-new featurelength special episode. Currently in its sixth season, PAW Patrol follows a pack of heroic rescue pups - Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky, Zuma, Everest and Tracker - who are led by a tech-savvy boy named Ryder. Together, they work hard to show the people of Adventure Bay that “no job is too big, no pup is too small!” The series features a curriculum that focuses on citizenship, social skills and problem - solving. Now available exclusively at Walmart.

SUNNY DAY: WELCOME TO THE PET PARLOR

Nickelodeon’s 10-year-old master hairstylist Sunny will add furry new friends to her clientele in the new DVD Sunny Day: Welcome to the Pet Parlor.

Available on September 3, the four-episode collection will follow Sunny and her friends as they open the doors to their fabulous brand-new Pet Parlor.

Whether they are rescuing Dame Tralada’s dog, creating an on-the-go pet styling vehicle or saving a royal pet wedding, there will be no shortage of adorable animals.

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Feature

6 Tricks to Make Halloween Treats a Non-Issue for your Allergic Kid

By Pam Moore

My daughter has multiple food allergies. I’m not talking about food sensitivities. I’m talking about taking an Epi-Pen with us everywhere we go, knowing our bright, curious daughter could die, were she to accidentally eat a rogue cashew. At two she was old enough to enjoy trick or treating with her big sister but too young to understand that, with the exception of Skittles, Smarties, and Tootsie rolls, her Halloween candy would mysteriously disappear.

Now she’s three and she “gets it.” I know she understands that she must ask me or her dad before she eats anything at a party. I know she’ll wait for me to give her a special, safe treat that I’ve packed just for her instead of accepting a slice of birthday cake. I’m still learning how to handle Halloween. If you’re also wondering how to enjoy trick or treating without being spooked by potential allergens, here are some tips for seasoned allergy parents.

2. Trade candy for a toy

1. Create your own traditions

3. Trade unsafe candy for safe candy

You don’t necessarily have to replicate the Halloween experience of your youth for your child to love the holiday as much as you did. As a parent, you have the freedom to invent your own family traditions. Jennifer Roblin takes her non-allergic son, age seven, trick or treating while her husband stays home with their daughter, who is four and has multiple food allergies. Her daughter loves dressing up and handing out plain potato chips (which are safe for her). Says Roblin, “I asked her if she wanted to go trick or treating this year and she cried, saying ‘No Mommy, I dress up and hand out tato chips.’”

Leigh Goodwin Furline, who has one child with food allergies and who does not, gives her kids the option to trick or treat or not. Last year, they decided to skip trick or treating in favor staying home to watch a movie. They also received some safe candy and a toy of their choosing.

If a Halloween without candy sounds as depressing to you as a birthday without presents, trading your child’s Halloween candy out for safe treats is a sweet solution. If you’re concerned about the possibility of cross-contamination, you could do what Sarah Hodges does. Instead of sifting through all of her son’s candy and reading all of the labels to determine what’s safe, she replaces everything with Enjoy Life Halloween candies. Megan McDavitt has two children, ages four and two, who between them, are allergic to milk, peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame. She encourages them to take non-candy or safe items if any are available. Once they get home, she lets them keep any safe candy and replaces anything they can’t have with No Whey Halloween candies. Kim Schmid, who has one child with allergies and one without, does it a bit differently.

She combines the contents of her two kids’ candy bags and

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

Trading candy for a toy means not only can parents bypass label-reading, candy-sorting, and the risk of crosscontamination, but they also avoid the hassle of candy rationing, candy-hiding, kids begging for candy, and all other candy-related problems. Sarah Jean Shambo lets her son choose whatever toy he wants in advance, but she waits until Halloween to purchase it. This way, she explains, “he’s excited about the trade and it doesn’t have to be a fight.” While the Shambo family takes a DIY approach to the switch concept, many parents call on the official Switch Witch, who needs candy to keep warm through the winter. Developed by a mom who struggled with the piles of candy her kids brought home from trick-or-treating, the toy is designed for parents who want to limit their kids’ sugar consumption and for those who need to keep their food-allergic kids safe.

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then sorts it. Her allergic daughter gets to keep whatever is safe for her. The rest of the candy goes into her non-allergic son’s bucket.

4. Just say no thank you As parents of kids with food allergies, we all hope our kids will outgrow them. In the meantime, we share the hope that our kids have the maturity and the confidence to speak up for themselves anytime they could be exposed to an allergen. For some families, Halloween is no exception. In fact, it can be an excellent opportunity to give a child the chance to practice having these conversations. This Halloween, Adrianna Shook plans to help her almost four-year-old daughter say, “Trick or treat, we have allergies to peanuts and tree nuts. Do you have something else?” Many parents I spoke to said that they were happy to politely ask neighbors if their treats were peanut-free when their kids were little but now that they’re older, the kids do it themselves. Not only that, but it turns out a little education goes a long way. Charlotte Eugenio said that after a couple of years of polite no thank you’s in a row, she noticed some houses started offering a separate selection of nut-free options.

5. BYOC For parents of younger kids who want their kids to experience as much of the “normal” (read: allergy-free) Halloween experience as possible, a little benign trickery goes a long way.

Jennifer Devine Pirozzoli usually takes her kids to the homes

of other family members, which gives her the opportunity to run up to the door with an entire bag of safe candy from which her child can choose, without ever knowing that that mom hand-picked it in advance. Other parents, like Victoria King, who plans to take her two-year-old son trick or treating for the first time this fall, will carry safe treats for their food allergic kids to munch on as they walk.

6. Cash for candy There’s no reason a kid shouldn’t have the chance to cash in on his treats. Parents like Toni Gaudisio are happy to buy back their kids’ candy. Says Gaudisio, “My kids [who are eight and eleven] are allowed to swap out five pieces of candy for safe candy and the rest I buy back for 25 cents. We usually take them [shopping] a few days later to purchase toys with their Halloween money.” Other parents, like Becki Rice and Cristina Salazar Rafferty, enjoy the benefits of getting rid of the candy without having to pony up—their family dentists are pay for Halloween candy.

Life with allergies can certainly be scary. But Halloween doesn’t have to make it even spookier. A little creativity goes a long way when it comes to making Halloween fun for everyone, no matter what they can or can’t eat.

Pam Moore helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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EDUCATION GUIDE

3 Autumn STEAM Projects to Fall For

By Sara Barry

Fall is back to school time—and a great time to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Learning knows no season, but each season brings its own ways to interact with STEAM activities.

Fun with Fungi

The cool, wet days of autumn can lead to an explosion of mushrooms and other fungi. To explore fascinating fungi, start by taking a nature walk to look for mushrooms and other fungi on the trail or growing on trees or stumps.

If you don’t see many mushrooms or want to get a closer view of the growth process, try growing mushrooms from a kit. Kits are fairly inexpensive and easy to use. It’s amazing to see how quickly mushrooms expand.

Whether on a nature walk or looking at homegrown mushroom, young naturalists can sketch different shapes and colors.

Use mushrooms to make spore prints. Remove the stem and place the mushroom cap bottom side down on a sheet of paper. Let sit for up to 24 hours.

Then remove the cap to see the spore pattern. Use these prints to make greeting cards or as the start of a drawing.

Reading Suggestions

You can get more information about fungi from the North American Mycological Association (NAMA), or check out these books: ■■Children of the Forest by Elsa Beskow is a fiction

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

picture book featuring children who live under an old tree and shelter under toadstools when it rains. They wear red dotted hats and look much like mushrooms themselves.

■■The Mushroom Fan Club by Elise Gravel takes

readers on a mushroom treasure hunt that shares mushroom facts with fun felt-tip images.

■■We Are Fungi by Christine Nishiyama blends fact

and fiction weaving science into a story with the pictures telling more of the story.

Monarch Migration Some types of butterflies, including Cloudless Sulphurs, Mourning Cloaks, and Question Marks, migrate in the fall. Perhaps the most famous migrators are Monarch butterflies. Monarchs migrate to Mexico and Southern California, usually in October. Watch for butterflies locally. For additional butterfly observation, you can visit a butterfly garden or sanctuary.

Waiting for Wings by Lois Ehlert brings the life cycle of different butterflies into focus. This book also has suggestions for planting a butterfly garden.

Butterfly gardens can support butterflies in all parts of their lifecycle from egg to butterfly. Monarchs and milkweed go together, but that’s not all you need— especially if you want to attract a variety of butterflies.

You’ll want a garden that provides shelter, water, shade, and sun. Think about plants that provide nectar and food for caterpillars as well. And watch out for plants treated with neonicotinoid. If it’s too late in the season Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

EDUCATION GUIDE

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EDUCATION GUIDE

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to plant, use the fall to plan your butterfly garden for spring.

Reading Suggestions

For suggestions on plants for your butterfly garden or to learn more about butterflies, check out the North American Butterfly Association or these books: ■■Fairy Flight by Tracy Kane features the monarch migra-

tion in California in a story about fairy and butterfly loving cousins.

■■Ghost Wings by Barbara M. Joosse puts monarch

migration into the context of Day of the Dead in Mexico. Uncle Monarch by Judy Goldman also makes this connection.

■■Gotta Go! Gotta Go! by Sam Swope takes readers

through caterpillar to butterfly in this story of Monarch migration to Mexico.

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Get Pumped about Pumpkins

Pumpkins are part of the fall harvest and are of course associated with Halloween making them a fall favorite.

You don’t need a large or perfect pumpkin for any of these projects.

Estimate how many seeds are in your pumpkin. Will a bigger pumpkin have more seeds? Does the number of ribs in the pumpkin matter? The only way to see is to dig in and see. Cut open the top of the pumpkin and scoop out all the seeds into a bowl or jar. Count a rough fraction of the seeds and then multiply to get an estimate. Then count all the seeds to see how close your were.

To make a tasty snack, roast your seeds. Rinse them, pat dry and toss with oil. Spread them on a rimmed baking sheet. Put in a 350° F oven for about 20–30 minutes.

You can add salt, seasoned salt, or your favorite spice blend.

Can you create a pumpkin seed catapult? A catapult uses the release of stored or potential energy to launch an object. To create a mini catapult, gather about 12 craft sticks, 4–5 rubber bands, and a plastic spoon.

■■Stack 6 craft sticks together and connect both ends with

rubber bands.

■■Stack 2 craft sticks and connect at one end with a

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rubber band.

■■Slide one of the two sticks between the bottom two

sticks in the taller stack, so that the two sticks are perpendicular to the larger stack. Use rubber bands to make an X to hold the sticks in place.

■■Use another rubber band to attach the plastic spoon to

the stick rising above the stack.

■■Place your pumpkin seed (or other small object) in

the bowl of the spoon. Press the spoon down and release.

■■You can experiment with how many sticks are in your

stack, how far you push the flinging stick into the stack, how much you depress the spoon, and how heavy your object is to see how these variables affect flight length.

The obvious pumpkin art project is carving a jack-olantern—either the traditional faces or intricate designs, but you can also paint your pumpkin with or without carving it.

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Reading Suggestions

How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin by Margaret McNamara and G. Brian Karas introduces skip counting and estimating—and shows that you can’t always judge from the outside.

Stomp Rockets, Catapults and Kaleidoscopes by Curt Gabrielson shows how to make a catapult and lots of other fun science projects with many recycled materials. The book provides background information along with step-by-step projects and questions to get kids thinking.

The Pumpkin Book by Gail Gibbons takes readers through the pumpkin life cycle and gives ideas for projects using pumpkins.

Whether you’re exploring fungi growth, the seasonal movement of butterflies, or exploring math and physics with pumpkins, you can STEAM up the cooler days of fall and fall in love with science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.

Sara Barry is a writer based in Massachusetts who focuses on outdoor family fun, local food, and nature. She loves exploring the changes in her environment throughout the seasons.

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EDUCATION GUIDE

Helping Kids Test Their Best

By Christa Melnyk Hines

By third grade, most kids have experienced testing on some level, ranging from spelling and math tests in class to standardized state exams. For some students testing is a breeze while for others, performance anxiety can hijack their ability to concentrate and do well. How can we best set our kids up for test success?

Cover the basics.

Before a big test day, don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep and a well-balanced breakfast. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), students who skip breakfast are less alert, less focused, and have more difficulty problem-solving.

Avoid foods high in refined sugars. Instead choose unprocessed foods like whole grains, eggs, nuts, yogurt, and fresh fruits and veggies. According to Harvard Medical School, antioxidant foods like berries and apples could even help reduce anxiety.

Check in with your student.

“Just acknowledging that a test is coming up and asking how our kids feel about it is a good opening conversation to have,” says Alicia Jackson, a school counselor.

If your child expresses worry, ask them what their biggest worry is and why. By pinning down the source of their anxiety, you can help them begin to problem solve. For example, if they are worried about the math portion of the test, contact the teacher or school counselor for ideas that can help your student feel more confident and prepared.

Reduce uncertainty.

“Test anxiety is such a real issue for students. In order for students to do their best, we want them to remain calm and feel confident about the test,” says school counselor Dr. 12 Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

Jermaine Wilson. “Confidence in taking the test is about 50 percent of the battle.”

Familiarity with the test structure can make a big difference in a student’s level of confidence. Review test sample questions with them. Often, students will realize how much they already know. Also, take advantage of any free resources your school offers like ACT, SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) practice tests.

Tap a tutor.

A good tutor can help strengthen your student’s skills in areas where they struggle. Wilson, who is a former ACT prep teacher, recommends taking the ACT or SAT cold, prior to tutoring, to identify which portions of the test they should focus on.

Tutoring can also help students learn tips to narrow down answers on multiple choice tests, practice writing prompts, and manage their time well by answering easy questions before tackling harder ones.

Avoid unnecessary pressure.

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), 51 percent of universities rate college entrance exams as considerably important when considering incoming freshmen. While that may be so, pressuring our kids to reach specific test results inadvertently drives up their anxiety and can actually hurt their scores in the long run.

“It affects their self-concept. Sometimes students will say ‘okay, my parent doesn’t think I’m up to standard or doesn’t love me as much if I don’t get a certain score.’ With that level of anxiety and the diminishing of self-concept, research shows over time that their test scores will go down,” Wilson says.

Positive self-talk. Nothing spooks success like telling yourself that you’re stupid or that you can’t do something. Help Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

EDUCATION GUIDE your kids transform negative thought patterns like “I can’t do this” to thoughts like “I don’t know how to do this yet.” This helps kids understand that learning is a trial and error process.

Encourage your child to write a note to themselves and stick it in their binder to read before a test, Jackson suggests.

They might write: “I’ve studied. I can do this. I’m going to try my best.”

You can help reinforce self-confidence too, by writing a note to your child and tucking it into their lunch box or backpack the morning of a test.

Share your stories.

Did you struggle with anxiety-provoking or stressful test situations as a student? What happened? Don’t just tell your kids about the times you succeeded. Tell them about those times when things didn’t go so well-and what you learned from those experiences. They’ll realize that no one is immune to setbacks.

“You can learn a lot from failure or not making a team or not scoring as high on a test as you want to. Hopefully, you reflect. The power of reflection after a test is important,” Jackson says.

Focus on what matters.

By 8th grade, start talking with your kids about what they hope to do after high school, weighing their strengths and interests. Not every student needs to take the ACT or SAT.

Students who plan to enter the military will need to prep for the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery). Vocational or technical schools may not require an entrance exam at all.

Your teen should contact their high school guidance counselor to find out what steps they should take to prepare for their future and what school programs and resources are available to support them in their endeavors.

Celebrate success.

No matter what the outcome of the test, zero in what went well. Even a passing grade on an exam in a subject your child struggles with is cause for celebration.

“You can still learn from the negative or the uncomfortable, but trying to find something positive is important because then that encourages kids to want to grow and learn,” Jackson says.

Even if your student isn’t sure how they did or thinks they bombed the test, ask them what they do feel good about.

Maybe they completed the entire test, which has traditionally been their biggest hurdle. Perhaps they’re proud of how much they studied. Or maybe they got to the test location on time.

“One test does not define who you are as a person,” Jackson says. “I think celebrating any kind of success is going help our kids want to feel that again.”

Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance writer. She is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital

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BASIS Texas Charter Schools Find one of our three Texas schools!

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Brooks Academy www.brooksacademy.org Brooks Lone Star Academy 25 Burwood Lane SATX 78216 210-998-4452 Brooks Collegiate Academy K – 12 4802 Vance Jackson Rd. SATX 78230 210-850-3002 Brooks Academy of Science and Engineering K-12 3803 Lyster Road SATX 78235 210-633-9006 Brooks Academy Oaks Pre K – 5 6070 Babcock Road SATX 78240 210-627-6013 Brooks Lone Star Academy K - 5 4802 Vance Jackson Road SATX 78230 210-998-4452 Brooks Academy students will be selfmotivated, competent, life-long learners, and prepared to thrive throughout their lives. Brooks Academy will ensure every student success at the college preparatory level of instruction by virtue of its small size; commitment to personalizing each student’s program and pace of study; the high competency reform oriented teaching staff this innovative school of choice will attract; and strong partnerships with businesses, universities, and other resources in the community.

International Academy of San Antonio 12500 NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX 78231 210-638-5200 The International Academy of San Antonio is opening in the fall of 2019 and will serve students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The Academy promises to be a top-rated, private school designed for real-world learning and will feature small classes and a family-like environment.

The tri-language instructional program (English, Spanish, and coding) will emphasize global learning, and our experienced faculty and staff will offer multi-cultural and multi-national experiences.

The International Baccalaureate Schools in San Antonio ISD Nine centrally-located IB and IB Candidate schools (elementaryhigh school) 210-554-2480 IB@saisd.net, www.saisd.net/ib San Antonio ISD’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools are tuitionfree, in-district charter schools offering innovative, rigorous education with a global perspective. IB Programmes are known around the world for their unique rigor and focus on students’ personal development. Application is open from November 5, 2019 to January 31, 2020. To apply, visit www.saisd.net/ apply. Elementary Schools (Pre-K to 5th): Briscoe, Huppertz* and Woodlawn Hills*; Academies (PK/K to 8th): Woodlawn and Fenwick*; Middle Schools: Harris, Longfellow*. (*IB Candidate school).

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Southwest Preparatory Schools 4 Campuses listed below 210-829-8017 www.swprep.org We are a college preparatory and career readiness public charter school serving students in grades PK–12. We provide a safe environment, small classes with individual attention, and an academically enriched curriculum. Northeast Campus & New Directions 1258 Austin Hwy. Pre-K – 12th grade; Southeast Campus 735 SWW White Rd. Pre-K – 12th grade; Northwest Campus 6535 Culebra Rd. Pre-K – 12th grade; Seguin Elementary 2400 E. Walnut St. Pre-K – 8th grade

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EDUCATION GUIDE  PRE-SCHOOLS Bright Ideas Enrichment Center 9433 Fredericksburg Road 210-694-4622 brightideasdaycare.com We realize that each child is unique with a specific set of needs. It is our sincere desire to accept the challenge and work toward the goal of meeting each of those needs. We offer Infant and Toddler care, Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 and Private Kindergarten, with breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack provided. We also offer Swimming lessons, Ballet, Gymnastics, Karate and Spanish for Tots. Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church & Early Childhood Center 5323 Blanco Rd. San Antonio TX 78216 210-732-7223 – Church 210-733-9444 Daycare www.christoursavior-sa.org Sharing and teaching the love of Christ as we reach out to all people. “Viviendo,compartiendo –y- ensenando el amor de cristo mientras alcanzamos a toda persona. Our acre supplements the home by providing a place in which the child may develop in an arranged environment with trained staff. Opened all year round.

Colonial Hills United Methodist School 210-349-1092 5247 Vance Jackson, www.colonialhills.info chumsadmissions@gmail.com At CHUMS our mission is to provide a safe, loving environment that nurtures and develops the whole child. Our curriculum and developmentally appropriate environment helps children grow emotionally, physically, spiritually and intellectually. We develop selfesteem, socialization and skills for life.

Offering care for children ages 18 months to Kindergarten.

Country Home Learning Center www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Call 210-687-1002 Country Home Learning Center provides 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 first-class facility. Students enjoy our • Waterpark • Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground • Putt-Putt Golf Course • Gymnasium • 1950’s-Style Soda Shop • Movie Theater • Computer Lab • Horseback Riding at Country Home Ranch.

Play Today Drop-In Daycare 17319 IH 35 N. Suite 302 Schertz, TX 78154 210-651-3610 Playtodaydropin.com Play Today is a unique child care facility that offers flexible drop-in care for children 12 months to 12 years.

We believe that children are unique individuals who need to be respected and cared for in a safe, nurturing environment.

Your child will enjoy a fun learning facility with songs, finger play, games, arts and crafts, and sensory play. After school pickup available.

Pre-K Academy at West Avenue 3915 West Avenue SATX 78213 210-407-0341 www.neisd.net/prekacadem Enroll your child in a nurturing environment designed with four-yearolds in mind. Students will participate in a full-day pre-k program following the NEISD calendar. Physical education, music, an age-appropriate library, transportation services, STEAM activities, certified teachers and meal opportunities are all a part of your child’s program.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church School & Child Care 6914 Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio TX. 78240 210-614-3741 | shlutheran.org Shepherd of the Hills is a Christ-centered, loving, learning environment dedicated to serving children, Infants through Grade 8. We are proud to be a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, and provide a solid, faith based, fully accredited educational program and state licensed childcare. We believe that quality education and Christianity go hand in hand and have an outstanding staff committed to education. We believe in developing the whole child and offer a range of enrichment and extra-curricular programs including sports, music, band, STEAM and various other enrichment opportunities. St. Anthony Catholic School 210-732-8801 205 W. Huisache Ave. San Antonio, TX 78212 www.StAnthonySA.org Located in the historic Monte Vista neighborhood north of downtown, St. Anthony Catholic School enrolls a diverse student body ages 2 years – 8th grade. For over 100 years, families in the greater San Antonio area have trusted their children to our care for nurturing, enlightenment, spiritual growth, and a rigorous education.

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EDUCATION GUIDE Suburban School 210-696-0213 5409 Encino Park Road general@suburbanschool.com www.suburbanschool.com Suburban School, a place where children can learn in a unique, natural setting and are encouraged to become independent, caring individuals. Suburban School exceeds State Minimum Standards and follows national accreditation (NECPA and NAEYC) guidelines.

Suburban School embodies a relaxed, comfortable learning atmosphere with an emphasis on our outdoor environment to enhance gross motor development. We believe that a happy and successful childhood with clear expectations leads to a positive self-image. Our program is designed to be age level appropriate, blending traditional and progressive styles of learning. We use hands-on experiences and learning centers to encourage creativity and a better understanding of concepts. Time is spent learning in a group setting as well as one-to-one with a teacher.

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS The International Baccalaureate Schools in San Antonio ISD Nine centrally-located IB and IB Candidate schools (elementary-high school) 210-554-2480 IB@saisd.net, www.saisd.net/ib San Antonio ISD’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools are tuition-free, in-district charter schools offering innovative, rigorous education with a global perspective. IB Programmes are known around the world for their unique rigor and focus on students’ personal development. Application is open from November 5, 2019 to January 31, 2020. To apply, visit www.saisd. net/apply. Elementary Schools (Pre-K to 5th): Briscoe, Huppertz* and Woodlawn Hills*; Academies (PK/K to 8th): Woodlawn and Fenwick*; Middle Schools: Harris, Longfellow*. (*IB Candidate school). High Schools: Burbank, Jefferson San Antonio ISD 141 Lavaca Street San Antonio, TX 78210 210-554-2660 www.saisd.net As San Antonio’s founding school district, our neighborhood schools have served as the heart of San Antonio for more than 100 years. Today, SAISD is Bexar County’s third-largest school district. With forwardthinking academic programs at neighborhood schools and a growing list of specialized schools, SAISD students

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

can customize their own educational experience and find what truly drives them.

MONTESSORI SCHOOLS Cardinal Montessori Academy 6506 W. Hausman Rd. SATX 78249 www.cardinalma.com We combine an authentic Montessori education with a variety of enrichment activities to offer children a premier learning experience while providing parents with peace of mind that their children are in a safe, nurturing, and quality academic environment. We offer Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten and Summer Programs.

Monte Vista Montessori School 210-737-6363 237 W. Magnolia, San Antonio, TX 78212 www.MonteVistaMontessori.com The Monte Vista Montessori School is a traditional Montessori school founded by a team of Montessorians who together have well over a century of experience in Montessori education. It is an ungraded school that works with children from ages two to fourteen.

Mount Sacred Heart School 210-342-6711 619 Mt. Sacred Heart Road, San Antonio www.mountsacredheart.org Mount Sacred Heart is a private, co-educational Catholic School offering PreK - 8th grades and San Antonio’s only Catholic Montessori Program. We are a spiritually based community committed to excellence in faith and education fostering development of the whole child.

The Montessori School of San Antonio 210-492-3553 17722 Rogers Ranch Pkwy San Antonio Texas 78258 www.montessoriSA.org At the Montessori School of San Antonio, we guide children to be passionate learners, independent thinkers and engaged citizens. We partner with parents, guiding students to achieve their full potential in academic, social, physical, intellectual, aesthetic and moral development from early childhood through adolescence.

Cornerstone Christian Schools 17702 NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX 78257 210-979-9203 sa-ccs.org Discover the premier K4-12 Christian School in San Antonio offering accessible, premium, Christian education in unmatched facilities. Cornerstone Christian Schools exist to give your student the opportunity to be prepared through education for success in this life. It will be built upon the foundation of faith to enable them to overcome all things through the power and the grace of Jesus Christ. Where Warriors are made.

Holy Spirit Catholic School 770 W. Ramsey San Antonio, Texas 78216 210-349-1169 www.hscssa.org Holy Spirit Catholic School is a premier grade school serving students in Pre-K through 8th grade. With a 54 year tradition of excellence in education, leadership, service, and athletics, we invite you to visit our campus and experience what makes Catholic education and Holy Spirit so exceptional!

Keystone School 210-735-4022 119 East Craig San Antonio, TX 78212 www.keystoneschool.org Keystone school has been a haven for bright, motivated children since 1948. Master teachers lead small classes with an accelerated, college-preparatory curriculum.

Academics, extracurriculars, arts, outdoor education and technology combine in a challenging, nurturing environment to develop academic excellence, ethical growth, community involvement, and responsible leadership. Grades PK3-12.

Mount Sacred Heart School 210-342-6711 619 Mt. Sacred Heart Road, San Antonio www.mountsacredheart.org Mount Sacred Heart is a private, co-educational Catholic school committed to excellence in faith and education.

A spiritually based community fostering personal uniqueness and development of the whole person.

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www.clowvazar.com | 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120, San Antonio TX 78249

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

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EDUCATION GUIDE Positive Solutions High School 1325 N. Flores, Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78212 210-299-1025 www.facebook.com/ positivesolutionshighschool Brief Description: Positive Solutions High School, chartered by the State of Texas in 1998, is an open enrollment charter school offering an accelerated high school diploma program for grades 9-12 as well as a GED program (4 hour sessions available in AM or PM). Positive Solutions High School students will succeed academically and in society.

San Antonio Academy 210-733-7331 117 East French Place, San Antonio, TX 78212 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 hardworking.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church School & Child Care 6914 Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio TX. 78240 210-614-3741 | shlutheran.org Shepherd of the Hills is a Christ-centered, loving, learning environment dedicated to serving children, Infants through Grade 8. We are proud to be a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, and provide a solid, faith based, fully accredited educational program and state licensed childcare. We believe that quality education and Christianity go hand in hand and have an outstanding staff committed to education. We believe in developing the whole child and offer a range of enrichment and extra-curricular programs including sports, music, band, STEAM and various other enrichment opportunities.

St. Matthew Catholic School 10703 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 478-5044 www.smcssa.org St. Matthew Catholic School is dedicated to the mission of educating a strong, faith-centered community through a commitment to the spiritual, moral, intellectual, social and physical development of each child. Register now for Pre-K – 8th grade.

St. Mary Magdalen School 1700 Clower Street San Antonio, TX 78201 210-735-1381 www.stmmsa.org St. Mary Magdalen School offers an affordable Dual Language all day program beginning at ages 3 years old through

8th grade. Free morning care as well as free after school care clubs are available Monday thru Friday. Athletic programs for students in grades K4 and up are available during the school year. There is a 1:1 Chromebook program that empowers all students grades Kindergarten-8th to utilize and participate in our Success maker Program leading them on the way to higher learning. Call or come by today to schedule a tour.

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

St. Peter Prince of Apostles School 18 months - 8th grade 112 Marcia Place, SA TX 78209 210-824-3171 • stpeterprince.org “St. Peter Prince of Apostles Catholic School offers a rigorous curriculum, servant leadership opportunities, and athletic and extracurricular programs for students in grades PreK3 through 8.

The Weekday Children’s Program serves children 18-months to 3 years. Call now to schedule a tour. Excellence in Education within a Community of Faith!”

The Circle School 217 Pershing Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210)822-0461 http://thecircleschool.org This unconventional private school is a PreK-8th grade family cooperative founded in 1965 and combines academic excellence with a distinctive curriculum oriented around several elements: 1) daily oral storytelling; 2) naturebased education teaching gardening and sustainability; 3) art and creative learning; 4) respectful conflict resolution encouraging compassion and empathy.

We are internationally designated as an Ashoka Changemaker School in recognition of our cultivation of students with the skills and confidence to change the world.

The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio, TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com A school for kids with Anxiety, Autism and other special needs. We provide education to Gifted-And-Talented, General Ed and Special Ed students. Our program places students in each subject by ability not by age. In addition to academics, our program focuses on giving students tools they need to deal with social settings and anxiety. Apply online today!

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EDUCATION GUIDE Sunshine Cottage 603 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 824-0579 www.sunshinecottage.org Founded in 1947 by John and Dela White, Sunshine Cottage offers a listening and spoken language environment for all children with hearing impairment as well as for typically hearing children. Sunshine Cottage provides students the opportunity to excel and experience new learning adventures each day. Pre-school through fifth grade. Contact: Executive Director Dr. Belinda Pustka, (210) 824-0579, bpustka@ sunshinecottage.org

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

The Winston School of SA 210-615-6544 8565 Ewing Halsell, San Antonio, TX 78229 www.winston-sa.org The Winston School San Antonio provides opportunities for bright students (K-12) to excel in academics, fine arts, athletics, and community service. Our small class size and targeted instruction provides success for students with ADHD, or other academic challenges in reading, math, and writing.

Winston offers an outstanding college and career planning program with over 90% of our graduates attending college.

Trinity United Methodist School 210-684-5214 5319 Newcome Dr. www.trinityums.org Affordable Private School education for 18 month olds through 5th grade. We offer a child-centered preschool program with music, All Aboard, motor skills and Spanish classes. Accelerated curriculum for Kinder – 5th includes music, piano, theatre arts, technology, Spanish, Latin, art library and PE, Smartboard technology. I-pads are issued to 3rd – 5th grade students.

SPECIAL NEEDS AdBAnce Behavioral Health ABA Therapy 844-568-2001 www.AdBAnce.com ABA Therapy can help students with Special Needs to maintain and generalize skills already learned. ABA can also be used as a teaching tool and a preventative tool to address challenging behaviors Advocacy Services Education Liaison Services (210)859-0970 Education Liaison Services’ mission to help parents navigate the maze of special education services is to ensure that your special needs child receives the appropriate education geared to meet each child’s unique learning needs. Our skilled team of experienced special education teachers advocate for your child’s most appropriate educational experience.

Bullying Empowerment Center Dr. Vanessa C. Cantu 210-845-4352 info@bullyingempowerment.com I am Dr. Vanessa C. Cantu, Ph.D. I am a licensed professional counselor. You can reach me by e-mailing me at info@ bullyingempowerment.com or calling me at (210) 845-4352. I can help your children with behavioral skills (i.e., social and coping) needed to be successful with their peers and family.

The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio, TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com A school for kids with Anxiety, Autism and other special needs. We provide education to Gifted-And-Talented, General Ed and Special Ed students. Our program places students in each subject by ability not by age. In addition to academics, our program focuses on giving students tools they need to deal with social settings and anxiety.

Apply online today!

Sunshine Cottage 603 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 824-0579 www.sunshinecottage.org Sunshine Cottage offers a listening and spoken language environment for all children with hearing impairment as well as for typically hearing children. Sunshine Cottage provides students the opportunity to excel and experience new learning adventures each day. Pre-school through fifth grade.

TUTORING Brainiac One-On-One In Home Tutoring 210-570-5611 www.mybrainiacs.com Brainiac provides one-on-one in-home tutoring services to K-12 students in all subject matter including test prep. Our purpose is to make a difference in the lives of children and teenagers, from grade school to high school and beyond. We provide more than academic tutors, we provide Mentors who empower students to maximize their potential in and out of the classroom.

Inspiring Excellence 210-509-7951 InspiringExcellenceTutoring.com Over 25 years experience inspiring students to excel and do their best. Tutoring phonics, reading, writing composition, math, handwriting, STAAR prep ages pre-school through 8th. ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, ESL experienced. One on one tutoring.

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EDUCATION GUIDE

Metro Health Kicks Off 2019-2020 Flu Vaccination Season The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) encourages everyone six months and older to get their flu vaccine as early as possible. The best protection against flu is getting a flu vaccine. The Flu vaccine has been shown to save children’s lives, prevent serious events associated with chronic lung disease, diabetes and heart disease, and prevent flu-related hospitalizations among working age adults and older adults. Getting vaccinated isn’t just about keeping you healthy; it is also about helping protect others around you who may be vulnerable to becoming very sick, such as babies, older adults, and pregnant women.

“Because the flu is unpredictable, it’s too soon to know what to expect this Flu season. So don’t wait, the time to get vaccinated is right now,” said Dr. Anita K Kurian, Assistant Director of Metro Health.

Metro Health’s Immunization Program will be providing immunization events across the city to reach as many citizens as possible. Leading the way this flu

season is our own San Antonio Mayor, along with City Council persons and their staff. Metro Health recommends a three-step approach to fight flu: 1. Get a flu vaccine.

2. Wash your hands often and practice good hygiene, and try to avoid close contact with sick people. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

3. If you become sick, limit your contact with others and complete all medication doses prescribed by your doctor.

Control and Prevention’s online Flu Vaccine Finder tool. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/flufinder-widget.html

Pediatrics

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CommuniCareSA.org

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Feature

Caring for the Caretaker: How To Support Parents of Special Needs Children

By Christa Melnyk Hines

When Tracy Glock’s 13-month-old daughter Kira was hospitalized with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, she was touched by the outpouring of support she and her husband received.

During those eight difficult months, the community rallied around the family. Friends and acquaintances babysat Kira in the hospital while her mom and dad worked, and many others helped by delivering meals and even mowing the family’s lawn.

“Words cannot express the gratitude you feel when someone you barely know does so much for you,” Glock says, who was also pregnant at the time with Kira’s sister Allina.

Although Kira, now seven, has recovered from the frightening ordeal, she still faces many daily challenges.

As a child with Down syndrome and autism, learning and development takes longer and requires more patience compared to the typically developing child.

Like many parents who have children with special needs, Glock says finding time for herself is difficult.

While many of us know how to help a family in crisis, how do we support parents who often put their own needs last as they focus on the daily challenges of caring for special needs youngsters?

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

Offer to babysit.

Finding trustworthy, alternate caretakers is a huge relief for parents who regularly juggle doctor’s appointments, school issues and therapy, not to mention jobs and other children.

“Every special needs parent’s needs are different, but most just love a little rest,” Glock says.

Because special needs children require more attention from their parents, healthcare providers and therapists, other youngsters in the family may feel slighted.

“Children always struggle and this is the case whether they’re special needs or not,” says Nancy Masannat, mom to two children, including Emy, 16, and Kyle, 14, who is on the autism spectrum. “There’s going to be sibling jealousies.”

When her children were younger, Masannat would often schedule her son’s appointments during times when her daughter was in preschool. “In my daughter’s mind, it wasn’t fair that someone was coming to the house and playing with her brother and not her.”

Having access to a qualified babysitter you can trust with your special needs child, can give you an opportunity to spend much-needed, one-on-one time with your other children too.

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MOTHER. TEACHER. NURSE. PSYCHOLOGIST. REFEREE. CEO.

I give my all for the ones I love. So, when they’re sick or hurt, I’m devoted to their needs. But when I get sick, I’m grateful to Methodist Healthcare for taking care of me. Their support means I can be there for my family when they need me most.

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Listen.

Ask your friend how she’s doing and then simply listen. Avoid offering platitudes or suggestions to help her fix problems.

“We all just like to be heard. Everybody likes to vent,” Masannat says. “Just listen to what the issues are without judgment. That’s a huge help for everybody, but primarily when you’re dealing with something that someone else might not understand.”

Educate yourself.

Get to know your friend’s child, including her disability, her personality quirks and her individual needs. And ask your friend about her specific parenting challenges.

“It shows that you care and will help you provide more effective support,” says Heather Trammell, mom to two special needs children, including Beth, 14, who has Down syndrome and Marie, 11, who has high-functioning autism. Both girls also have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Suggest resources.

Support groups help parents feel less alone and provide valuable resources for assistance in childcare, school issues and navigating healthcare.

“The biggest thing for me was to know that I wasn’t in this by myself-that I wasn’t the only person who had a child who didn’t sleep well; that I wasn’t the only

one with a child who was now three and not talking,” Masannat says.

To find support groups in your area, consult with the therapists and teachers your child already works with, your library, your church and online. For example, www. autismspeaks.org, which includes resources for families or the National Down Syndrome Society, www.ndss. org. Also check out Facebook and MeetUp.com for local support groups.

Other ideas to brighten you friend’s day: ■■Purchase a gift certificate for a massage or manicure

■■If you plan to have the family over, ask your friend if

you should be aware of any food sensitivities or specific ground rules to ensure a successful visit ■■Offer to babysit and/or help with siblings ■■Help with getting kids to practices ■■Deliver a meal ■■Mow their lawn ■■Send a bouquet of cheerful flowers ■■Arrange for a house cleaning crew ■■Ask if you can pick up anything while running errands ■■Mail an encouraging card Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband are the parents of two sons. She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

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Health

9 Ways to Boost Your Child’s Immune System

By Christa Melnyk Hines

With the flu and cold season right around the corner, try simple strategies to help keep your child healthy and strong.

These tips can also help the body fight illness more efficiently.

Eat from the rainbow.

During cold and flu season, it’s especially important to avoid non-nourishing foods which can aggravate symptoms and make it harder for the immune system to respond to illness.

“Good nutrition is essential to a strong immune system and it can offer seasonal protection from illnesses, as well as other health problems like allergies,” says registered dietitian Joan Sechrist, PhD.

Vaccinate.

Stay current on your child’s immunizations.

“Immunizations in younger years can help prevent disease as kids grow into adults,” Sechrist says.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that anyone over the age of six months get the flu vaccine, which is one of the best ways to protect your child from influenza.

According to the CDC, an average of 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized each year due to complications from the flu.

Get adequate sleep.

Kids need between eight to 12 hours of sleep a night to help keep their bodies strong. Stick to a regular, calming evening routine. Also, power down distracting electronic devices that can interrupt sleep.

Exercise regularly.

Active kids are healthier kids. Experts recommend that kids get 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Take family walks or bike rides, shoot hoops, swim at your local community center, go roller or ice skating, play hopscotch or toss a ball in the backyard.

Teach proper hand-washing.

Basic hand-washing with soap and water prevents the spread of disease. Have your child lather for 20 seconds or say the ABCs twice. Avoid overuse of sanitizers, which destroys both good and bad bacteria on the hands.

Take probiotics.

“Probiotics are fabulous in and of themselves for gut integrity,” says naturopathic physician Shelly Clevidence. “For increasing the immune system, they don’t have to be live.”

Look for probiotics in pill form or in foods. If your child is sick, avoid dairy products, which contribute to inflammation and mucus build-up.

Try castor oil.

Extruded from the castor bean plant, castor oil can be rubbed on your child’s belly at night when the immune system is most active, says Leah Hollon, a naturopathic physician. Castor oil, she says, is both anti-cancer and an anti-inflammatory.

“Castor oil is pretty amazing. We find it helps bring more white blood cells into the blood stream to help fight infection,” Hollon says. “It also helps get that histamine response down for some kids that have allergies, and it helps them have a good bowel movement.” Constipation issues can be worse during flu and cold season.

Consider elderberry syrup.

Both Clevidence and Hollon say elderberry syrup (also available in a tincture) can help kids fight a cold or flu.

“Elderberry syrup is one of my favorites,” Hollon says. “My kids love the taste of it. Probiotic, elderberry syrup is antibacterial and antiviral, a general broad spectrum support.”

Elderberry has been used for centuries to treat wounds and respiratory illnesses and is thought to reduce swelling in the mucous membranes and sinuses. *Consult with your pediatrician before treating your youngster with elderberry.

Power up with Omega-3s.

A recent study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggest that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and plant sources, like flax seeds, chia seeds, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, could also help boost immune function.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two active school-aged boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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calendar

OF EVENTS

OCTOBER

October 25 / Haunted River, Jr Haunted River, Jr.: Families are invited to the free Haunted River, Jr. event at the Shops at Rivercenter on the River Walk. Trick-or-Treat at dozens of River Walk restaurants, followed by a bounce house, photo booth, DJ and a parade on the river.

The parade floats through the Rivercenter lagoon between 8:30 to 9:00 p.m. The Shops at Rivercenter, 849 E. Commerce. http://www.shoprivercenter.com

October 16 / Baby Shark Live Baby Shark Live: A brand-new, fully immersive concert experience from Pinkfong and Round Room Live. Sharks must always keep moving, so Pinkfong’s viral song and dance sensation will come to life in over 30 cities over six weeks this fall. The live show is based on Pinkfong’s viral earworm and global dance phenomenon, Baby Shark. Fans of all ages will delight as Baby Shark joins up with his friend Pinkfong to take an adventure into the sea, singing and dancing through new and classic songs including Five Little Monkeys, Wheels on the Bus, Jungle Boogie, Monkey Banana Dance and, of course, Baby Shark. Children one year of age and older require a ticket. Prices vary from $19.50 - $49.50. Show starts at 6 p.m. Majestic & Empire Theatres, 224 E Houston St. http://www.majesticempire.com

October 4 / Mission Marquee Plaza

Family Film Series: The Goonies

Come for a screening of The Goonies. With plenty of lawn space, visitors are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars. Venue will open 6 p.m. and the movie will begin 15 minutes after dusk. This event is brought to you by the Pet Friendly. Free. 7 to 10 p.m. Movie begins 15 minutes after dusk. Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210-2078612. https://www.facebook.com/MissionMarqueePlaza/

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

To Advertise Call 305-4181

Please note: Event dates, times and details are subject to change. Always double check by phone, website or Facebook for event updates.

1 Tuesday Scarecrow Trail Exhibit Opens: Dispersed throughout the Botanical Garden, visitors will be treated to scarecrows created by community organizations and partners.

This artistic exhibit highlights creative and fun interpretations of scarecrows and the harvest season. Included with general admission. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Pl. https:// www.sabot.org/

2 Wednesday

Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program with the San Antonio Astronomical Association.

7 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday, weather permitting. Free. Raymond Rimkus (Park Parking Lot), 6440 Evers Rd., Leon Valley. 210-710-4786. http:// sanantonioastronomy.org/night-skycalendar/ Playdates: Beautiful Blue: Playdates cultivate, nurture and inspire creativity while developing an appreciation of art and world cultures. Toddlers experience stories, gallery activities, hands-on art, movement and music. Space is limited, first-come, first-served.. Free with Museum admission. Playdates is for ages 2 to 4. 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. https:// www.samuseum.org/

3 Thursday H-E-B Free General Admission at the McNay: Free admission every Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. Remember: kids and teens under the age of 19 always get in free. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210805-1768. www.mcnayart.org

4 Friday

Free Concert Fridays - Party on the Plaza!: Free Concert Fridays every week. Listen to the best local sounds of San Antonio.

Bring the whole family to enjoy music ranging from Tejano to country hits, blues, pop and more!​ Free. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tower of the Americas 739 Cesar Chavez. https://www.toweroftheamericas.com

10 Trick-or-Treating Tips

By Karissa Tunis

Trick-or-Treating can be a fun family tradition that you can enjoy together as a family, or with friends and neighbors, every fall.

The kids love getting dressed up, running around to the different homes, and collecting lots of delicious treats!

However, this fun experience can also lead to mishaps, or even worse, if not done in a responsible manner. Below are 10 tips for making sure that your next Trick-or-Treat experience is fun AND safe: ■■Children should always go out trick-or-treating accompanied by

a responsible adult

■■Plan a safe route so that everyone knows where they are headed,

and parents know where their older kids will be at all times

■■Remember to look both ways before crossing the street ■■Be careful walking near lit candles or luminaries - and watch the

longer dragging costumes

■■Instruct your child to never go into the home of a stranger, or get

into their car

■■If you child’s costume is dark, be sure they carry a flashlight,

glow stick, or wear reflective tape to make them more visible to others and cars ■■Only walk up to well lit homes ■■Know your towns Trick-or-Treat curfew ■■Make sure a parent looks at all treats before a child consumes any ■■Do not eat treats with opened wrappers, or home made goodies from strangers When planning your route, pick a neighborhood that you are familiar with. Look for streets that are well-lit and where the homes are closer together. This will make it easier to keep an eye on your children, and little ones will have the energy to visit more homes.

Try to also visit homes of family and friends. Not only will they be happy to photograph the fun, but they will also enjoy seeing your kids dressed up, and may even have extra special goodies for them as well. But if you are stopping by homes of strangers, just be sure that you are there with your children in order to make sure everyone stays safe and receives appropriate treats.

Consider also searching for trick-or-treating events happening in your area..What parent doesn’t love getting their money’s worth on these costumes, and what kid doesn’t want more goodies?!

Sometimes malls, amusement parks, community programs, etc., offer additional opportunities that are indoor, outdoor, themed, or in a variety of other fun ways.

Don’t let fear stop you from enjoying this fun night out . If you know the risks, prepare ahead, and stick to your plan, you can have a fun and safe night Trick-or-Treating with everyone!

Karissa Tunis is the co-owner of the parenting website, AdoreThem.com. Adore Them strives to share positive, practical advice and resources to help you find joy in your own October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Buttons •Face Painting • Balloons • Clowns •Magic •DJ

ButtonsPartyEvents.com

• Balloons • Magic • Storytelling • Face Painting

Parties - Events - Schools Libraries - Daycares Doctor’s Offices - Stores

210-391-6087

Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m – 11:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-826-2611. https:// www.thetwig.com/ friday-storytime Fall Flick at Fischer Park: Bring your blankets and chairs before you head out to Fischer Park to enjoy a family friendly screening of the movie “Aladddin” 2019. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Fischer Park Amphitheater, 1935 Hilltop Summit Road, New Braunfels, TX. https:// www.nbtexas.org

Reserve your Spot!

February

210-305-4181 2020

Yanaguana Garden’s 4th Birthday Bash: Dress in your funky threads and be ready to get down and boogie for a Disco theme. Music by The Azul Experience, Birthday Cake

by Sweet Chela’s, Strolling entertainment by Aqua Acro Entertainment, arts activities and more. 6 to 9 p.m. Hemisfair, 434 S Alamo St. https://hemisfair.org/

5 Saturday

Bark in the Park 2019: Bark in the Park is a pet costume contest and expo benefiting San Antonio pet rescue organizations.

No pet? No problem!

There will be plenty to do for the whole family with food trucks, vendors, music, a kid’s zone, and more! And remember – all proceeds benefit local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Tickets are $7. 4 to 9 p.m. Sunken Gardens Theater, 3875 N. St. Mary’s St. https:// thomasjhenrylaw.com/ event/bark-in-the-park/ san-antonio-texas/ SAC-Tacular 2019: Every year San Antonio College holds SAC-Tacular to share an inside look at its departments and student activities in a festive “Block

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

Party” format; live music, carnival games and food.

The event is free with club fund raising costs for food & drink items. Free. 12 to 5 p.m. San Antonio College, 1819 N Main Ave. Boerne Book & Arts Fest: A new chapter of the Boerne Book & Arts Fest opens October 5 with a celebration of all things literary and arts, including live performances, author discussion panels, childrens’ activities and more on Boerne’s iconic downtown Main Plaza.

Admission is free. 10 a.m.– to 5 p.m. Boerne Main Plaza, 100 N Main St, Boerne, TX. Schedule of Events at Facebook/BoerneBookFestival

6 Sunday

Family Day: Egyptian Adventure: Walk like an Egyptian while you explore the art of ancient Egypt through family tours and fun activities.

Craft an Egyptian collar, make a mummy book, and write your name in hieroglyphs on papyrus. Free with Museum admission.

Children 12 and under are free. 12 to 3 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 West Jones Ave. https:// www.samuseum.org/ DoggiePOOLooza Fest 2019: Activities include pet adoptions, vendors, food trucks, and of course a doggie pool pawty.

Come out and enjoy a fun time with your furry one.

12 to 3 p.m. Hamilton Community Center, 10700 Nacogdoches Rd. Dogs must be registered to swim. More information at https://www.sanantonio. gov/Animal-Care/

9 Wednesday

Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program with the San Antonio Astronomical Association.

To Advertise Call 305-4181

Parents, METRO HEALTH is here for YOU! Metro Health is your local public health department. While a doctor treats individuals, public health looks at the health of a community.

At Metro Health, we are here to help you and your baby every step of the way. We offer various programs for moms to be, moms and their families.

We remind you to take action to stop the spread of infectious diseases.

We introduce prevention and early detection activities to help increase life expectancy. We can also help with free resources.

Visit our website for more info: sanantonio.gov/health

Asthma Program • We meet with families that have children with asthma.

• We come to your home to improve asthma control.

• Education and support is provided over a 12 month period.

3 HOME VISITS

HEALTHCARE PROVIDER VISIT

SCHOOL OR DAYCARE VISITS

CONTACT OUR ASTHMA PROGRAM AT 210-207-7282

FLU SEASON IS HERE! Get yourself and your family vaccinated.

TALK TO A DOCTOR OR CALL US AT 210-207-8894

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

27

Pumpkin Patches South Texas MAiZE: Activities including a seven-acre maze, hayrides, the MatterCorn Slide Mountain, the Twin Cow Train, Farmer Ken’s Kiddie Korral, the Hay Bale Jump, Colin’s Clucker races, unlimited jumping on the two Corn Pop-Poppers, the Whacky Whizzer and much more!. Maize grounds admission is required to access the pumpkin patch. $$17.50 (with tax) for adults, children 2 and under are admitted free. Open Fridays from 6 to 9p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Pumpkin Patch is open 10/5-10/28, weekends only.

911 U.S. Hwy. 90 East, Hondo.

830-741-3968.

TLF Pumpkin Patch: There will be games, activities, pumpkin chucking, a barrel train, and all-around family fun for everyone. Festival activities Saturdays & Sundays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Pumpkin sales only Monday – Friday 4 to 8 p.m. Last chance pumpkin sales Halloween Night 4 to 6 p.m. Free unlimited games for children under 3. Unlimited games with wrist band for children 3 & older – $5. Saturdays & Sundays free parking and free entrance to patch. For more information about all these events, Family Night, Pumpkin

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

Decorating Contest, and Trunk or Treat visit the TLF Pumpkin Patch Facebook page. Open October 8th through 31st at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1602 Thousand Oaks.

Owl Creek Pumpkin Patch: Open weekends Sept. 28 - November 3. Open Saturday 9-6 and Sunday 10-5. Also open the following week on Wednesday 9-1 and Friday 4-7. Come enjoy pony rides, hay ride, petting zoo animals, potato launching, family games, pumpkins, and a lot of photo ops.

Also new in 2019 is the Haunted Hike. 12355 Military Dr W. http:// owlcreekfarmsa.com/ First United Methodist Church Seguin Pumpkin Patch: Lots of pumpkins & lots of photo opportunities. Puppies & Pumpkins & a Blessing of Animals on Saturday, October 19. Hayrides and activities on Saturday, October 26. No admission fee. Begins Saturday September 28. Open Monday Saturday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm and Sunday noon - 7:00 pm. 710 N. Austin St. in Seguin. 830-379-4112. www.fumcseguin.com

Traders Village Corny Maze Pumpkin Patch: It’s fall fun for the whole family at the Traders Village Corny Maze. Experience San Antonio’s First & Only “Corny Maze” with 10 acres of crazy mazes (Easy for little kids, Medium and Hard). The Corny Maze tickets are just $11.99 per person, kids 2 and under are free. For $10 more you can upgrade your pass and take advantage of ALL the Traders Village Theme Park Rides plus the Corny Maze and our new Fear Factory Haunted House.

Visit the Pumpkin Patch with pumpkins to buy for $5. Paint for FREE And take lots of great Family photos while you have a great time! Traders Village (inside the Corny Maze) 9333 SW Loop 410 | San Antonio, TX 7824.

(210) 623-8383 https://tradersvillage.com/san-antonio

To Advertise Call 305-4181

More Patches Bracken United Methodist Church https://www.brackenumc.org/media/ Bulverde United Methodist Church https://www.bulverdeumc.org/events/ Circle N Maze https://circlenmaze.com/

TLF Pumpkin Patch October 12th – 31st

Games, Activities, Pumpkin Chucking, a barrel train and more family fun.

Open Sept. 28 through Nov. 3

Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, & Sunday

• Hay Rides • Petting Zoo • Haybale Mazes • Giant Slide • Play/Climbing Areas • Pig Races

• Festival Activities Sat. & Sun. 10am – 7pm • Pumpkin Sales Only Mon. thru Fri. 4 – 8pm • Last chance Pumpkin Sales Halloween Night 4:00 – 6pm St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church 1602 Thousand Oaks, San Antonio TX

Owl Creek Farm 12355 Military Dr. SATX 78253

210-616-6585 http://owlcreekfarmsa.com/

First United Methodist Church Seguin https://www.fumcseguin.com/ Good News Pumpkin Patch https://www.facebook.com/GoodNewsPumpkinPatch Northwest Hills United Methodist Pumpkin Patch https://www.nwhills.org/pumpkins Oxford United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch http://www.oxfordumc.org/PumpkinPatch Devine Aces Farm https://devineacresfarm.com/

Reserve your Spot!

February

210-305-4181 2020

Thousand Oaks Bible Church Pumpkin Patch https://www.thousandoaksbible.church/events Love Creek Orchards http://lovecreekorchards.com Pipe Creek Pumpkin Patch https://pipecreekpumpkinpatch.com/ The Pumpkin Patch San Antonio https://www.facebook.com/thepumpkinpatchsanantonio

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com SABG_OurKids_Fall_FNL.indd 2

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9/16/19 9:02 AM

visiting with old friends making new ones, honoring ceremonies and much more and is presented by the DFW Inter-Tribal Association. Several hundred Native Americans, representing dozens of tribes from across the US, will take part in this celebration of their culture and heritage at the Annual Traders Village San Antonio Pow Wow Native American Indian Championship.

The drums will beat for the dancers in full regalia of feathers, buckskin, bells and beadwork competing for prize money and awards in many different dance categories. 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Traders Village. https://tradersvillage.com/san-antonio/

Kids can enjoy a family friendly Halloween event at the Haunted River Jr located at the Rivercenter lagoon on October 25th.

7 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday, weather permitting. Free.

Raymond Rimkus (Park Parking Lot), 6440 Evers Rd., Leon Valley. 210-710-4786. http:// sanantonioastronomy.org/nightsky-calendar/

10 Thursday

Second Thursdays - Art, Music, Food, Drinks: A free live performance by local talent, exhibition tours, family-friendly activities and food trucks.

Explore the Museum galleries during H-E-B Free General Admission at the McNay from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Bring your own picnic blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening on the grounds of the Museum. Pets on leashes are always welcome. 6 to 9 p.m.

McNay Art Museum. 6000 N New Braunfels Ave. https://www. mcnayart.org/ Art Crawl: Feathers, Fur and Scales: Bring your babies into the galleries. Art selections enhance parent-child interactions. Tour includes group play and social time. Free with Museum admission. 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. https:// www.samuseum.org/

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

11 Friday

Free Concert Fridays - Party on the Plaza!: Free Concert Fridays every week. Listen to the best local sounds of San Antonio.

Bring the whole family to enjoy music ranging from Tejano to country hits, blues, pop and more!​ Free. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Tower of the Americas 739 Cesar Chavez. https://www.toweroftheamericas.com Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m – 11:30 a.m. All ages welcome.

Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-826-2611. https://www. thetwig.com/friday-storytime Fall Flick at Fischer Park: Bring your blankets and chairs before you head out to Fischer Park to enjoy a family friendly screening of the movie “Hocus Pocus” 2019. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fischer Park Amphitheater, 1935 Hilltop Summit Road, New Braunfels, TX. https://www.nbtexas.org

12 Saturday

Native American Indian POW WOW: This family friendly event will include colorful tribal dance contest, an arts and crafts show,

Light The Night San Antonio: An annual fundraising walk for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society that raises valuable funds that support our mission: to cure leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and Hodgkin’s disease and to provide education and support for patients and their families.

Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 6 to 9 p.m. Hemisfair Park, 434 S Alamo St. https://www.lightthenight.org/events/san-antonio Artpace Chalk It Up: Bring your family and friends to the 16th annual Artpace Chalk It Up, a free festival of contemporary art that transforms Downtown San Antonio into a gallery – from the ground up. Artpace Chalk It Up turns Downtown San Antonio into a chalk canvas, showcasing San Antonio-based artists and raising funds for Artpace’s education and public programs.

Chalk It Up encourages everyone to become an artist for a day as we work on a collaborative city block-sized mural. Free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Houston Street & Main Ave, Downtown San Antonio.

210-212-4900. http://www.artpace.org A Day in Southtown: A FREE annual celebration of creativity and community in 5 Neighborhoods. Each of Southtown’s neighborhoods hosts a FREE community celebration in their public spaces that include art educational workshops, Local businesses, culinary eats, art walk and more. Free.

12 to 10 p.m. Southtown The Arts District. 1906 S. Flores, San Antonio, Texas 78204 To Advertise Call 305-4181

Free Movie - Hocus Pocus: Come enjoy a family-friendly motion picture under the stars every month. Free.

Movies start at sunset. Tower of the Americas 739 Cesar Chavez. https:// www.toweroftheamericas.com Movie in the Park: Sit down on your own Magic Carpet, or bring a chair and be mesmerized by the exotic adventures of Aladdin 2019. This live-action adaptation is a thrill for the whole family, and you won’t want to miss this special outdoor screening. Free popcorn and hotdogs, while supplies last. 6:45 pm, baseball field at Main City Park at City of Live Oak, Texas.

Star Party: View the stars with local astronomers from the San Antonio Astronomical Association. Observe the constellations without the obstruction of city lights. Telescopes will be set up in the open mulched field of the Savanna. Park in the PHP Urban Ecology Center parking lot.

Flashlights with Red Lenses are suggested for navigating through the dark. 6 to 8 p.m. Phil Hardberger Park West, PHP Urban Ecology Center, 8400 NW Military Hwy. www.philhardbergerpark.org

13 Sunday

MasterChef Junior Live: This all-new production brings the culinary hit TV show MasterChef Junior directly to you LIVE. Featuring head-to-head cooking competitions with past MasterChef Junior all-stars and fan favorites, Q&A sessions, and an overall immersive audience experience fun for all ages. Prices vary. 2 to 4 p.m.

Tobin Center for the Performing Arts ,100 Auditorium Circle. https://www. tobincenter.org Native American Indian POW WOW:: see October 12

15 Tuesday

Story Time and Book Garden: Get out to the park each Tuesday morning at Schultze House for Story Time and a fun activity with partner Scio STEAM to accompany it! We’ll also have the Book Garden, our mobile library, so you can take a free book, or donate any that you’re done with. It’s a free take-a-book, leave-a-book library for your family! Perfect for kids under age 4. Free and open to the public.

10 to 11 a.m. Yanaguana Gardens at Hemisfair Park, 434 S. Alamo St. 210262-2502. http://hemisfair.org

16 Wednesday

Baby Shark Live: A brand-new, fully immersive concert experience from Pinkfong and Round Room Live.

Sharks must always keep moving, so Pinkfong’s viral song and dance sensation will come to life in over 30 cities over six weeks this fall. The live show is based on Pinkfong’s viral earworm and global dance phenomenon, Baby Shark. Fans of all ages will delight as Baby Shark joins up with his friend Pinkfong to take an adventure into the sea, singing and dancing through new and classic songs including Five Little Monkeys, Wheels on the Bus, Jungle Boogie, Monkey Banana Dance and, of course, Baby Shark. Children one year of age and older require a ticket. Prices vary from $19.50 $49.50. Show starts at 6 p.m. Majestic & Empire Theatres, 224 E Houston St. http://www.majesticempire.com Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program with the San Antonio Astronomical Association. 7 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday, weather permitting. Free. Raymond Rimkus (Park Parking Lot), 6440 Evers Rd., Leon Valley. 210-710-4786. http:// sanantonioastronomy.org/night-skycalendar/ Playdates: Lovely Landscapes: Playdates cultivate, nurture and inspire creativity while developing an appreciation of art and world cultures. Toddlers experience stories, gallery activities, hands-on art, movement and music. Space is limited, first-come, first-served.. Free with Museum admission. Playdates is for ages 2 to 4. 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. https://www.samuseum.org/

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ADVENTURE

AWAITS >

17 Thursday

Mission Marquee Plaza Family Film Series - The Goonies: Come for a screening of The Goonies. With plenty of lawn space, visitors are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars. Venue will open 6 p.m. and the movie will begin 15 minutes after dusk. This event is brought to you by the Pet Friendly. Free. 7 to 10 p.m. Movie begins 15 minutes after dusk. Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210-207-8612. https:// www.facebook.com/MissionMarqueePlaza/ H-E-B Free General Admission at October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

31

A Free Screening of Aladdin 2019 wil be showing at Hemisfair Park on October 18th.

the McNay: Free admission every Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. Remember: kids and teens under the age of 19 always get in free. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-8051768. www.mcnayart.org

18 Friday

Kiddie Park Opening Day at The Zoo: Whether it’s the airplanes, a little school bus, or the iconic carousel, guests have been eagerly waiting for the grand opening of Kiddie Park. One of San Antonio’s most treasured landmarks is set to open its gates to the public on October 18 at its new location, San Antonio Zoo. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

3903 N St Marys St. https://sazoo. org/ Alice in Wonderland at The Tobin: Go down the rabbit hole with the dizzyingly beautiful Alice in Wonderland. Enos’ hybrid of classical and contemporary movement, combined with Pixar artist Luis Grané’s surrealist projection, costume and set design will transport the audience on a journey alongside Alice as her imagination sweeps her away to a place of exquisite beauty and absurdity, where anything is possible and the probable is turned upside down. Prices vary. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Ballet San Antonio, 100 Auditorium Circle. https://www.tobincenter.org Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m – 11:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-826-2611. https:// www.thetwig.com/friday-storytime Southtown Cinema - Aladdin: FREE screening of Aladdin presented

by Gold’s Gym! Before the show, DJ Mayhem will play music. Movie will start at immediately following sunset. 8 to 11 p.m. Hemisfair, 434 S Alamo St. https://hemisfair.org/ Free Concert Fridays - Party on the Plaza!: Free Concert Fridays every week. Listen to the best local sounds of San Antonio. Bring the whole family to enjoy music ranging from Tejano to country hits, blues, pop and more!​ Free. 7 p.m.

– 10 p.m. Tower of the Americas 739 Cesar Chavez. https://www. toweroftheamericas.com Free Outdoor Movie - E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial: Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets for this outdoor screening of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” Movie starts at dusk. 6 to 9 p.m. Plaza Guadalupe, 1327 Guadalupe St. https://www. slabcinema.com

19 Saturday

Mission Marquee Plaza Family Film Series - Bumblebee: Come for a screening of Bumblebees. With plenty of lawn space, visitors are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy an evening of entertainment under the

stars. Venue will open 6 p.m. and the movie will begin 15 minutes after dusk. This event is brought to you by the Pet Friendly. Free. 7 to 10 p.m. Movie begins 15 minutes after dusk. Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210207-8612. https://www.facebook. com/MissionMarqueePlaza/ Halloween Spook-Track-ula: If you are searching for a family friendly Halloween Show in San Antonio that isn’t too scary for the little ones and won’t break the bank, look no further than “Halloween Spook-track-ula” at the Texas Transportation Museum. You can ride on the “Transylvania Express,” walk through the “Ghost Train,” take a haunted train ride, plus see the whole museum in an entirely new, spooky, way. It’s fun, it’s affordable and it’s not too far to travel. Adults: $12, Children (4-12): $10, Children (Under age 4) are FREE. Event runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Texas Transportation Museum, 11731 Wetmore Rd. https://www.txtransportationmuseum.org/ Movie in the Park: Flight of the Butterflies: Come for a screening of “Flight of the Butterflies” on the Great Lawn at Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair as part of the Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Festival. Movie will start at sunset (around 7pm). We will have butterfly activities for visitors to enjoy prior to the start of the movie. 6 to 10 p.m. Hemisfair, 434 S Alamo St. https://hemisfair.org/ To Advertise Call 305-4181

Alice in Wonderland at The Tobin: See October 18. Prices and times vary. Ballet San Antonio, 115 Auditorium Circle. https:// www.tobincenter.org Fall Fest at A&M-San Antonio: A community-wide event featuring games, a bounce house, live entertainment, snacks and more.

Free and open to the public. 12 to 6 p.m. For more information email cab@jaguar.tamu.edu or call (210) 784-1391. Texas A&M University-San Antonio, One University Way. CircleFest 2019 Fall Family Festival: CircleFest is a family friendly Fall festival at The Circle School. This event features a Pumpkin Path with storytellers, live music by local bands, food, drinks, kids’ activities, raffle prizes, a silent auction, and even a Tween-friendly Haunted House! The whole family will have fun at this event.

Costumes are encouraged. $5 admission for adults, kids under 15 are free. All proceeds will fund our mission of educating future Changemakers. 4 to 8 p.m. The Circle School, 217 Pershing Ave. https://www.thecircleschool.org/ HalloVISTA Halloween Festival at Northwest Vista College: Bring your family for trick-ortreating, show off your creativity for the costume contest, and for those that like a good scare, enjoy the spooktacular haunted house. There’s plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Food trucks will be available for the event. In addition, the movie “Addam’s Family” will be projected on a large screen. The movie will start at sundown. 4 to 9 p.m. Northwest Vista College, 3535 N Ellison Dr.

https://www.alamo.edu/nvc Halloween Spooktacular – The Composer is Dead:A riotous collaboration between composer Nathaniel Stookey and children’s author Lemony Snicket (aka Daniel Handler) that combines two elements of great story-telling: music and suspense. In a special Halloween-themed Family Concert, San Antonio Symphony Associate Conductor Noam Aviel will lead the orchestra in a gripping murder mystery where every member of the orchestra is a suspect. The mystery gets underway at 10:00 am with Pre-Concert Activities for Kids, including musical and Halloween crafts, games and an Instrument Petting Zoo. A one-hour narrated concert will follow, starting at 11:00 am. Come in costume and don’t forget to enter our Spooktacular Costume Contest – prizes to be awarded Traders Village annual Boo Bash will be onstage in the concert, held on October 20th. including for The Scariest, The Most Original, and BestDressed Dead Composer. to assist our San Antonio FireFamily concerts are designed for fighters who are currently strickchildren ages 4-11, but can be en with and battling some form enjoyed by people of all ages. of cancer. Free. 10 a.m. – 10 One Trinity Pl, Trinity Univerp.m. 5/10K Race & Kids Fun Run sity’s Laurie Auditorium. https:// Begins 8:30 a.m. Mission County sasymphony.org/concerts-events/ Park, 6030 Padre Dr. http://safamily-concerts/\ herofest.com/ Annual Hero Fest: Hero Fest is an all-day, fun filled event that consists of live musical entertainment, a variety of food options, raffle, activities sure to entertain all ages, a 5/10K Race & Kids Fun Run, and much more.

All proceeds from this event go to the San Antonio Firefighters Cancer Fund (SAFF Cancer Fund)

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5th Annual Feel Good Festival 5K: The San Antonio Feel Good Festival highlights community wellness by combining food, health, fitness, and music entertainment in a way that is unlike any other in South San Antonio.

The waterfront linear park offers a beautiful backdrop for you to walk your dog, play out-

210-269-0725

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

33

Peppa Pig’s Adventure is a Brand New Live Show coming to the Majestic Theatre on October 26.

door games, or even bring your kids to enjoy the play structure.

8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Greenline SA, 2532 Sidney Brooks. http:// members.southsachamber.org/ events/

20 Sunday

Alice in Wonderland at The Tobin: See October 18. Prices vary.

2 to 4 p.m. Ballet San Antonio, 115 Auditorium Circle. https:// www.tobincenter.org

Barktoberfest 2019: You and your fur-baby can expect plenty of fun activities including, games, costume contests, the wurst dachshund dash and shopping with pet-friendly vendors.

Just remember if your furry companion joins you, be sure to have proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccination. Free. Noon to

Boo Bash 2019: Put on your best Halloween costume and get ready to do the Monster Mash as Traders Village presents it’s eighth annual Boo Bash, the biggest free spooktacular for kids in San Antonio. On Sunday afternoon, from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm, Traders Village will be loaded with more Halloween entertainment and fun than ever before. Boo Bash 2019 will present live musical entertainment, activities, a Bootastic Parade and monster-sized Trick-or-Treating by our generous vendors who will place a pumpkin in front of their location to let you know to stop for candy. Free Kids Activities 12:30pm to 4:30pm, Boo Bash Parade 1:30pm, .All kids in costume can participate in our Boo Bash Parade & Will receive a FREE pass to the Corny Maze Parking is $4. Traders Village, 9333 SW Loop 410. 210-6238383. http://tradersvillage.com/

Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Festival: A weekend of science, education, and fun, the festival will celebrate the Monarch Butterfly’s majestic migration through Texas on their way to Mexico to roost for the winter.

This event will include a people for pollinators parade, monarch butterfly tagging, educational demonstrations, live music, and the world debut of the Waggle Dance at noon. This event is free and open to the public. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Historic Pearl, 303 Pearl Pkwy. https://texasbutterflyranch.com/festival/

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4 p.m. Animal Defense League of Texas, 11300 Nacogdoches Rd. http://perrin410animalhospital. com/barktoberfest/

Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

san-antonio/events/

22 Tuesday

Story Time and Book Garden: Get out to the park each Tuesday morning at Schultze House for Story Time and a fun activity with partner Scio STEAM to accompany it! We’ll also have the Book Garden, our mobile library, so you can take a free book, or donate any that you’re done with. It’s a free take-a-book, leave-a-book library for your family! Perfect for kids under age 4. Free and open to the public. 10 to 11 a.m. Yanaguana Gardens at Hemisfair Park, 434 S. Alamo St. 210-262-2502. http:// hemisfair.org

23 Wednesday

Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program with the San Antonio Astronomical Association. 7 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday, weather permitting. Free. Raymond Rimkus (Park Parking Lot), 6440 Evers Rd., Leon Valley. 210-710-4786. http:// sanantonioastronomy.org/night-

To Advertise Call 305-4181

sky-calendar/

25 Friday

Halloween Bash: At the base of the Tower, guests will enjoy live music, trunk or treat car show, delicious food, activities for the kids and more.

Enter a pumpkin carving contest to win fun prizes.

Activities include face painter, character artist, paint your pumpkin station, pack race, mechanical bull and more. Event is free and open to the public. 7 to 11 p.m. Tower of the Americas 739 Cesar Chavez. https://www.toweroftheamericas.com Free Concert Fridays Party on the Plaza!: Free Concert Fridays every week. Listen to the best local sounds of San Antonio. Bring the whole family to enjoy music ranging from Tejano to country hits, blues, pop and more!​ Free. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Tower of the Americas 739 Cesar Chavez. https:// www.toweroftheamericas. com Haunted River, Jr: Families are invited to the free Haunted River, Jr. event at the Shops at Rivercenter on the River Walk. Trickor-Treat at dozens of River Walk restaurants, followed by a bounce house, photo booth, DJ and a parade on the river.

The parade floats through the Rivercenter lagoon between 8:30 to 9:00 p.m.

The Shops at Rivercenter, 849 E. Commerce. http:// www.shoprivercenter.com Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m – 11:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-826-2611. https://www.thetwig.com/ friday-storytime Re/Max Skylight Balloon Fest 2019: This

family-friendly event features a kid’s fun zone, hayrides, games, over Magazine 100 vendors, food trucks, live concerts nightly as well as awesome balloon competitions Saturday and Sunday morning and balloon glows on Friday and Saturday evening.

Magazine Admission is $20 per carload up to 5 occupants and $30 for 6-8 occupants. For more information and schedule, visit www.skylightballoonfest. com azine

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26 Saturday

Día de los Muertos: San Antonio’s beloved, cultural event, moves to Hemisfair, offering expanded art booths, ofrendas, music, food and an experience that has become a tradition for all. Experience. Enjoy.

Remember. Our loved ones are still with us at Día de los Muertos. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Hemisfair, 434 S Alamo St. https:// hemisfair.org/

The Costume Conundrum Stomp Out BullyinKidgs Signs Your May Exhibit

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Pumpkin Patches p Keep itMaU intain

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Milberger’s Halloween Weekend Celebration: Bring your kids for a fun filled weekend of free Halloween events Milberger’s. Walk through a hay maze and ride the Terror Train all month.

Milberger Nursery, 3920 North Loop 1604. www. milbergernursery.com 8th Annual Bootacular: Wonderland of the Americas invites your family to this daytime, non-scare celebration, of cheer rather than fear, is the social event of the season with shows, activities, costume contest all geared for kids ages 0-13. Kids can take part in Halloween Costume Contest and show off their costume in style on stage for a chance to win exciting prizes. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wonderland of the Americas, 4522 Fredericksburg Rd. https:// wonderlandamericas.com/

Parents, don’t forget to take a picture of your child in costume this Halloween for a chance to be on the cover of Our Kids Magazine next year.

Send photos to rudy@ourkidsmagazine.com by 12p.m. November 10, 2019 October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

35

Saturday, October 26, 2019 @ 5pm. at McAllister Park, (1302 Jones Maltsberger Rd, SA TX 78232). Cash prizes for best costume and many more surprises. Bring a friend, dress up for the occasion, run with us and stay for the Fiesta. Ticket prices vary. 5 to 8 p.m. McAllister Park, 1302 Jones Maltsberger Rd. Tickets available at http://huaracheturbo.com Dachtoberfest 2019 by Diamond Dachshund Rescue of Texas: Plan out your Halloween costumes and get your dachshunds ready to run.

With dachshund races on the racetrack, costume contests, vendors, food trucks, beer, shopping, trick or treating, and so much more, there is something for the whole family. All friendly dogs are welcome to the park on this day. Dogs must remain on a leash and on track level at all times. Owners are responsible for dog cleanup. All guests are $3. Open at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Retama Park, 1 Retama Pkwy. https://www.retamapark.com/

Air balloons light up the sky at the Re/Max Skylight Balloon Fest on Oct. 26th 11th annual Art Under the Oaks: Featuring local artists, crafters, jewelers, wood workers and more.

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping. Music, food and fun.

Bonsai exhibit and lectures. Kid friendly, pets welcome (on a leash please), Free admission. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Garden Center, 10682 Bandera Rd. https://www.facebook. com/pg/TheGardenCenterSA/ Peppa Pig’s Adventure: Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back with a brand new live show! In Peppa Pig’s Adventure, Peppa gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and live music. The happy campers soon settle down to sleep and listen to the gentle pitter-patter of rain.

Safe and warm inside their tents, the excited group can look forward to morning time, when there will be lots of muddy puddles to

36

Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

play in. Prices vary from $29.50 - $159.50. Show starts at 4 p.m.

Majestic Theatre, 224 E Houston St. http://www.majesticempire.com 13th Annual AccessAbility Fest (2019): disABILITYsa invites you to attend the 13th Annual AccessAbility fest, a gateway to resources, information and opportunities for individuals overcoming barriers to independence and inclusion due to physical, cognitive, sensory and mental health challenges. This free, familyfriendly festival features over 100 exhibitors featuring information, products and services in 16 Topic areas; costume contest, games and activities, health screenings, food concessions, live entertainment, and product & program demonstrations. AccessAbility fest will kickoff with the abilitySTRONG Parade at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Historic Market Square, 514 W Commerce St. 9th Annual Dia de Los Muertos Night Run: 5K Run/Walk: Join Huarache Turbo for our 9th Annual Dia de los Muertos 5K Run/ Walk. The event will take place

Halloween Spook-Track-ula: If you are searching for a family friendly Halloween Show in San Antonio that isn’t too scary for the little ones and won’t break the bank, look no further than “Halloween Spook-track-ula” at the Texas Transportation Museum. You can ride on the “Transylvania Express,” walk through the “Ghost Train,” take a haunted train ride, plus see the whole museum in an entirely new, spooky, way. It’s fun, it’s affordable and it’s not too far to travel. Adults: $12, Children (4-12): $10, Children (Under age 4) are FREE. Event runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Texas Transportation Museum, 11731 Wetmore Rd. https://www. txtransportationmuseum.org/ Re/Max Skylight Balloon Fest 2019: This family-friendly event features a kid’s fun zone, hayrides, games, over 100 vendors, food trucks, live concerts nightly as well as awesome balloon competitions Saturday and Sunday morning and balloon glows on Friday and Saturday evening. Admission is $20 per carload up to 5 occupants and $30 for 6-8 occupants. For more information and schedule, visit www.skylightballoonfest.com New Braunfels Dia de Los Muertos Festival: The Fourth Annual Dia De Los Muertos Festival will be held in the Historic Downtown New

To Advertise Call 305-4181

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

37

petitions Saturday and Sunday morning and balloon glows on Friday and Saturday evening. Admission is $20 per carload up to 5 occupants and $30 for 6-8 occupants. For more information and schedule, visit www.skylightballoonfest.com Halloween Spook-Track-ula: See October 26

29 Tuesday

The 4th Annual Dia De Los Muertos Festival will be held in the Historic Downtown New Braunfels on October 26th

Braunfels on Saturday, October 26 from Noon to 10:00 p.m. to honor, remember and celebrate the lives of our deceased loved ones.

This FREE community event celebrating the Hispanic culture. The streets will once again come alive with Kids Activities, Art, Culture, Vendors, Community Ofrenda, Food Trucks, Shopping, Live Entertainment and much more. The festival includes Downtown Shopping, Dancing, Mariachis, Live music, Folklorico Dancers, Aztec Dancers, Art Exhibition, Procession Parade, Kids Activities, Story-Telling Time, Sugar Skull Class, Flores de Papel Class, Best Dressed Catrina Contest, 70 plus Vendors of Arts & Crafts, Cultural Food booths, Cultural Food Trucks and much more. For more information you can contact Jenna Vinson 830625-2385.

Rolling Oaks Mall Boo Bash: Event is from 12 to 2 p.m. Fun kid’s event, themed activities, face painting, balloon artist and much more. Rolling Oaks Mall, 6909 N Loop 1604 E. Rolling Oaks Mall Boo ‘n Brew: Event is from 2 to 6 p.m. Family fun event, talent search and so much more. Rolling Oaks Mall, 6909 N Loop 1604 E.

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Our Kids Magazine | October 2019

27 Sunday

KSAT Halloween Spooktakular: KSAT 12 will be scaring up family fun during the first-ever Safe Halloween Spooktakular.with food trucks, live music, carriage rides and fun activities for children.

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunset Station, 1174 E Commerce St. https://www. ksat.com/halloween Día de los Muertos: San Antonio’s beloved, cultural event, moves to Hemisfair, offering expanded art booths, ofrendas, music, food and an experience that has become a tradition for all. Experience. Enjoy. Remember. Our loved ones are still with us at Día de los Muertos. 12 to 9 p.m. Hemisfair, 434 S Alamo St. https://hemisfair. org/ H-E-B Free General Admission at the McNay: Free admission every Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. Remember: kids and teens under the age of 19 always get in free. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-8051768. www.mcnayart.org Re/Max Skylight Balloon Fest 2019: This family-friendly event features a kid’s fun zone, hayrides, games, over 100 vendors, food trucks, live concerts nightly as well as awesome balloon com-

Story Time and Book Garden: Get out to the park each Tuesday morning at Schultze House for Story Time and a fun activity with partner Scio STEAM to accompany it! We’ll also have the Book Garden, our mobile library, so you can take a free book, or donate any that you’re done with. It’s a free take-a-book, leave-a-book library for your family! Perfect for kids under age 4. Free and open to the public. 10 to 11 a.m. Yanaguana Gardens at Hemisfair Park, 434 S. Alamo St. 210-262-2502. http://hemisfair.org Haunted History Halloween Tour: Discover the spirits haunting our galleries. All ages and costumes are welcome, but please no fullface masks or accessories such as wands, swords, or scepters in the galleries. Ticket Price: Free 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. https:// www.samuseum.org/

30 Wednesday

Astronomy in the Park: Join astronomers and other stargazers to observe the sky through large telescopes in an informational program with the San Antonio Astronomical Association. 7 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday, weather permitting. Free.

Raymond Rimkus (Park Parking Lot), 6440 Evers Rd., Leon Valley. 210-710-4786. http:// sanantonioastronomy.org/nightsky-calendar/

31 Thursday Trick or treating at Rolling Oaks: Mall wide trick or treating from 4 to 8 p.m. While supplies last.

Rolling Oaks Mall, 6909 N Loop 1604 E.

To Advertise Call 305-4181

November 15, 2019 – January 5, 2020 This holiday season, Gaylord Texan Resort will present a winter wonderland with two million lights, a 54-foot tall Christmas tree and 15,000 ornaments!

Family events will include Snow Tubing, Ice Skating, Gingerbread Decorating Corner, Breakfast with Charlie Brown™ & Friends, Build-A-Bear Workshop®, and our signature hand-carved attraction ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas.

GRAPEVINE, TX

Stay overnight to experience it all! Tickets and packages on sale now.

ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com | (817) 778-2000 Peanuts © 2019 Peanuts Worldwide LLC. © Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc.

October 2019 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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