Our Kids Magazine September 2015

The Go-To Resource for San Antonio Families

FREE September 2015

www.OurKidsMagazine.com

GRANDPARENTS

The Many Important Roles They Play in a Child’s Life

Engaging the Daydreamer

Finding Ways to Help Children with Inattentiveness Disorder

Signs of Infantile Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) p i r T d l e Fi y r o t c e r i D

Magazine

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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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table of

CONTENTS

September 2015

8 10 12 20 22

volume 31 • number 9

GRANDPARENTS

8

The Many Important Roles They Play in a Child’s Life

BANISH THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL BLUES: Ten Ways To Build Better

Student-Teacher Relationships

20

AN A+ FOR SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS Field Trip Directory

SIGNS OF INFANTILE GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX (GER) ENGAGING THE DAYDREAMER

22

Finding Ways to Help Children with Inattentiveness Disorder

6 FAMILY FYI

7 ON THE WEB

25 CALENDAR

38 YOUR KIDS

• SA Goes Orange • 5th Annual Streamy Awards “Kids and Family”

• KLRN Virtual Classroom • Nickelodeon Dvd Giveaway

• SA Kids Film Fest • Family Theatre • Ongoing Exhibits

September Theme Back to School

On the Cover

ISTOCK PHOTO © MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES

IN OUR KIDS

Next month

Not So Scary Halloween Movies Self-Defense for Children Education Directory Dyslexia Signs

4

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

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publisher’s NOTE

Our Kids Love Grandparents!

Being a parent never stops---especially when your kids have kids. I’m truly thankful for my parents. Not only are they always there for me, but they are also like having my own personal parenting coaches. So, make sure you make time to visit your parents -- if you are fortunate enough to still have them around -- this month for Grandparents Day. Having them in your child’s life is truly a blessing. For insight from a local mom’s point of view, read Colyn Sanchez’ article “Grandparents: The Many Important Roles They Play in a Child’s Life” Now that school is back in session, it’s time to fundraise for those yearly field trips. San Antonio offers many educational places to take our kids to throughout the year. This month Renee Haines highlights a few prime local field trip destinations in her article “An A+ for School Field Trips.” It’s important for kids to get out of the classroom to do more hands-on activities instead of just reading about a subject in a book and merely leaving it to the child’s imagination.

Speaking of imagination, trying to keep a child’s imagination under control can be tricky, since it creates innovation but can hinder one’s education if not kept under control.

Parents who are dealing with this problem in their child may find the article “Engaging the Daydreamer” by Christa Melnyk Hines helpful.

And for parents with infants, this month we take a look at infantile Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER). What are the signs and what should a parent do if diagnosed? Freelance writer Jessa McClure interviews local doctor Maan Khatib on the subject.

Also, ET Symphony, Alamo City Comic Con and San Antonio Kids Film Fest are only a few things going on this month and can be found in our calendar of events.

Rudy Riojas Happy Reading!

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• Infant Care • Pre-School Programs • Music & Gymnastics • Private Kindergarten • Karate • Spanish • Ballet • Swimming Located near USAA and the Medical Center.

9433 Fredericksburg Monday - Friday 210-694-4622 6:15 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. www.brightideasdaycare.com

condition.

Our Kids Publisher

P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 210-305-4181 Magazine Toll Free 866-465-6936 PUBLISHER/EDITOR Rudy Riojas, Ext. 104

ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski, Ext. 101

CALENDAR Kelley Ramotowski, Ext. 105

DISTRIBUTION Tony Smith, Ext. 106

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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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

5

Family

FYI

The San Antonio Food Bank has partnered with Whataburger to encourage everyone in Southwest Texas to “Go Orange” and take action to fight hunger during Hunger Action Month.

SA Goes Orange is a San Antonio Food Bank local campaign to raise awareness and engage local businesses, government and the community to take action to fight hunger. Get more info at www.safoodbank.org/sagoesorange.org

With help from some of the most influential creators and talent in online video, including Bart Baker, Flula, and GloZell Green, Tubefilter, Dick Clark Productions, VH1 has announced the nominees for the 5th Annual Streamy Awards.

The Streamy Awards, a multi-platform event honoring the best in YouTube, online video and the creators behind it, will air live on VH1 and its digital platforms from the Hollywood Palladium on Thursday, September 17, 2015 at 10:00 pm ET/delayed PT. Below is the nominees for the “Kids and Family” categories.

Eh Bee Family - https://www.youtube.com/user/ehbeefamily Kid President - http://kidpresident.com/ Kids React - https://www.youtube.com/user/TheFineBros Shaytards - https://www.youtube.com/user/SHAYTARDS What’s Up Moms - https://www.youtube.com/user/WhatsUpMOMS

New Public Art Piece Open Hand, Open Mind, Open Heart

6

New public artwork has been installed at Pittman-Sullivan Park, located at 1213 Iowa St. The 32-foot tall original sculpture, entitled “Open Hand, Open Mind, Open Heart,” consists of perforated steel and metal tubing depicting an open hand with two internal 5-foot diameter openings, and is orientated toward a view of downtown San Antonio.

An artist selection panel and the San Antonio Arts Commission recommended and approved artist Douglas Kornfeld of Boston to commission an original piece of artwork as part of the 2012 Bond Public Art Project: Eastside Parks.

The sculpture, according to Kornfeld, was created as a dedication to Dr. King, and is intended to be an interactive piece. As one steps through the lower stainless steel ring, one’s hand is open and mimicking the open hand of the sculpture. This action symbolically connects the visitor to the piece and the non-violent philosophy of Dr. King.

“Dr. Martin Luther King and his philosophy of social change inspired the artwork by non- violent action,” said Kornfeld. “The open hand depicts a gesture of non-violence and is reinforced by the open ring in the palm further depicting a non-aggressive pose. The ring at the bottom of the arm is designed to encourage visitors to step through the artwork.”

For more information on the City’s public art program, including a public artworks map, visit www.GetCreativeSanAntonio.com.

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

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on the

WEB

Virtual Classroom

Giveaway

KLRN, the Emmy-Award winning Public Television station for South Central Texas has been gifted a $35,000 coveted grant through the Knight Foundation Prototype Fund to create a Virtual Classroom for homeschoolers and teachers utilizing PBS Learning Media and the OVEE platform developed by ITVS. This project has the capacity to reach the 140,000+ Texas homeschoolers and their respective groups and member organizations throughout the country.

The first KLRN Virtual Classroom session was on the subject of nature discussing birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, bugs and pets. Experts will discuss the topic of the week and panelists include representatives from the Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center (Denton, Nebraska), Texas State Aquarium, San Antonio Zoo, San Antonio Area Foundation and Hill Country Animal League.

“The KLRN Virtual Classroom is one way that we are creatively providing for the learning community. With the ever-changing media landscape, our team is continuously thinking of smart and innovative ways to share all of the quality information that we have access to and are known for. The KLRN Virtual Classroom is just the first step in making that happen for our homeschooling community and beyond, because as you know, the internet doesn’t have borders,” said Arthur R. Emerson, President and CEO of KLRN.

Enter on the Our Kids Magazine App Beach parties may be over, but autumn fun and adventures are just starting in Nickelodeon Favorites: Celebrate Fall! This exciting collection includes over two hours of seasonal and educational episodes from Nickelodeon.

Enter on the Our Kids Magazine App for a chance to win the Nickelodeon Favorites: “Celebrate Fall!” which will be available on DVD in stores on August 18, 2015. Valued at $14.99.

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visit www.summitsa.com/sclc/ for details!

Service Times Sat 5 pm | Sun 10:30 am Rick Godwin, Senior Pastor

Non-Denominational Contemporary Worship www.summitsa.com

2575 Marshall Rd. San Antonio, TX 78259 • (210) 402-0565 Our Kids App Available on Itunes & Google Play

September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

7

Feature

The Many Roles of Grandparents

by Margaret Colyn Sanchez

As the mother of two small children-- and also the witness to a strong grandparent to grandchild relationship-- I have been fortunate to watch my children connect with my own parents. My parents play an active role in my children’s lives and it is such an incredible journey to experience. Watching the parents who raised you give love to your own kids is one of the rewarding parts of parenthood. If your children are fortunate to have a grandparent figure in their life, cherish it-- it is a privilege that not all have the joy of experiencing.

Childcare

In today’s busy and fast-paced world, many families face the challenge of finding adequate daycare for their children while both parents work. There are some grandparents who live close by to their grandchildren

8

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

and act as the primary childcare provider, as well as many children who live with their grandparents for periods of their life. A U.S Census survey conducted in 2012 found that “grandparents are the primary provider of childcare for 30 percent of working mothers with kids younger than five.” Being this involved in a grandchild’s life instantly creates a strong bond between child and grandparent.

During the process of getting my bachelor’s degree my mother became the biggest asset for me to get coursework completed. If I had an assignment to get done my mother was a phone call away. We would arrange our schedules based on my class times, assignments, projects and her agenda. In turn my son developed a special connection with both of my parents and vice versa.

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Friendship

When grandparents are able to play and spend priceless hours bonding with their grandchildren it is a privilege for the entire family. In today’s world children are surrounded by many screens and electronic devices, generally grandparents incorporate a lot more interactive activities. The empathy and dynamic play that grandparents involve their grandkids in becomes a healthy and vital part of their growth. It allows them to have an outlet of play with someone close and dear to them.

My kids’ love going to their grandparents’ house.

Whether it’s fishing and playing in the river, playing with their toys from the toy closet at Gigi’s, which of course are better than the toys at home, or playing baseball outside, they are always ensured a fun time at their grandparent’s home. The attention they receive from their grandparents is undivided, which can be different than at home when parents are trying to get housework done, make dinner, or finish work tasks from the house.

Security

There are many situations where grandparents assist their child and their family financially. In difficult financial times many grandparents have the financial security and are able to assist their kids and grandkids in times of need. Many grandparents also contribute to educational expenses. According to a survey done by the Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America “23 percent of grandparents help pay for their grandchildren’s college.” In many ways aside from just economically, grandparents act as a security net for some families. Grandparents have life experience and can relate to their kids’ what they have gone through, or use their experience to help give advice.

Family

Different families have a member that acts as the “glue” to a family- someone that really puts forth the effort in bringing everyone together. In many families a grandparent is the one who fills this role. This tends to be because a grandparent wants all of his or her children and family happy, and can provide a sense of solace and comfort to their children and grandchildren no matter their ages.

No matter my age and no matter where I am in my life my mother will feel like home to me. As a mother I am inspired by her in many ways because of the kind of parent and grandmother she continues to be. Nothing can ever replace the unconditional love between a parent and child, and when a parent’s child has children of their own the love only multiplies.

Margaret Colyn Sanchez is a freelance writer, wife, and mother of two.

Our Kids App Available on Itunes & Google Play

St. Thomas Episcopal Church & School 2 year olds through 5th grade

Still Enrolling for the school year!

Our Pumpkin Patch opens in Oct and is open to the public!

The patch is great for Ad n io t n class field trips,family e M trip picnics, and fall fun! and field nes o chaper r come fo FREE!

210-494-3509 Accredited by SAES

www.stthomaskids.com www.facebook.com/tom1604school September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

9

Feature

Banish The Back-To-School Blues:

10 Ways To Build Better Student-Teacher Relationships

by Christina Katz

Teacher-student cooperation is an important alliance that starts at home and affects a child’s entire academic career. Having positive relationships with teachers throughout twelve years of school can make the difference between a child who adores school and all it encompasses and a child who dreads school and struggles on a daily basis.

By the time school starts each fall, teachers have already invested years of education, practice, and preparation into getting this school year off to a great start. Most parents want their children to succeed in school but sometimes students and parents inadvertently get off on the wrong foot with teachers. How can parents encourage kids to meet educational professionals halfway? Here are ten tips for helping your child cultivate positive, supportive, and mutually respectful relationships with teachers from the first day of school forward.

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Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

1. Attend meet-the-teacher activities. No matter what the age of your child, don’t miss an opportunity to get to know the teacher as a both an educator and a person. It’s always appropriate for teachers and students to share things about their lives with each other as a way of bonding and getting to know each other.

2. Set positive expectations about teachers with your child. Even if the teacher your child was assigned is new or not the current parent favorite, express enthusiasm to your child about learning with the teacher she will have.

3. Communicate your child’s needs. If you can send an email to the teacher a week before school starts, that’s good timing. But it’s never too late to keep your child’s teacher up to date on your child’s specific LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

challenges, especially those that will affect his ability to learn.

Whatever You Do, Don’t…

4. Let the teacher do the teaching. Once the year kicks off, assume a supporting role. Express interest in your child’s academic work and school activities but try to let her tackle challenges like homework and projects herself.

Don’t expect teachers to drop everything and get back to you immediately. Assume a busy, full schedule and allow about a week for a response.

5. See how well your child can meet standards on his own. Schools set up checkpoints like teacher conferences to assess student progress. Use these opportunities to find out how well your child is doing in school. Be relaxed and open-minded about any reports, especially if they are not what you were hoping to hear.

Don’t expect teachers to try and please you. They are supposed to focus on teaching the kids, not coddling the parents.

6. Coach from the backseat. No parent likes to see a child falter. But facing struggles can be helpful in building character and teaching him lessons about himself. Don’t do your child’s work for him. Take on a cheerleading stance instead.

Don’t go over a teacher’s head unless you have made every attempt to cooperate with that teacher first. If you have tried three times and been unsuccessful each time, you might send a calm note to the principal explaining that you are having a hard time communicating with the teacher and you would like some assistance.

7. Get more structured support as needed.

If the year is at the halfway point and your child is not making solid academic progress, and you have exhausted the school’s resources, consider a private tutor, a learning service like Kumon or a tutoring service like Sylvan. Try to find a private tutor with reasonable rates using an online tutor-finder like Care. com.

8. Participate. Three common commitments are parent-teacher meetings, school events, and parent volunteering. But don’t be at the school 24-7. If your child gets the sense that you are appropriately committed and engaged in the spirit of the school without hovering, she can relax, participate, and focus on doing her best.

9. Don’t pressure. Meet your student wherever he is. There is no point in projecting your prior academic success onto your child or pressing him to achieve more than he is reasonably capable of accomplishing.

Love and appreciate your child as a whole person, not just a grade at the end of the year, and he will feel secure and motivated.

10. Express gratitude. Offer teachers an inexpensive card or gift at holiday time and the end of the year.

But don’t write the thank-you note for your child. Help her write it herself instead until she is old enough to take over the job.

Christina Katz is a teacher who is married to a teacher with many more teachers scattered throughout the extended family trees. Teaching is one of her favorite things to do and writing about teaching comes up a close second.

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Don’t take things personally when issues that come up are actually about your child’s progress in school.

Don’t speak disparagingly about your child’s teachers with him or in front of him.

Don’t fire off an email when you are angry. Wait until you calm down and then send an email asking for more information or requesting a meeting time.

5 Ways To Resolve Student-Teacher Conflicts Here’s an easy troubleshooting guide for teacher-student relationships that get off to a rocky start.

■■If you are not sure what to say, start sentences with the

phrase, “I am concerned because…” Then ask, “Do you think there is anything that needs to be done to address this concern?”

■■Ask questions until you understand the situation and

what your child can do better.

■■Convey to both the teacher and your child that you will

do everything you can to help address the issue.

■■Check in with your child daily for a couple of weeks to

insure teacher expectations are understood and heeded.

■■Follow-up with the teacher after two weeks to make sure

there has been a noticeable improvement.

Don’t assume the situation will be resolved immediately just because you brought it up. And don’t believe it is resolved merely because the student says it is. Confirm a more harmonious relationship from the teacher’s point of view, as well. When harmony is achieved praise your child for making an effort and thank the teacher for his time and attention. If your child’s teacher brings up a challenge that needs to be addressed, follow the same steps.

September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY

Kids arrive by school bus to hear a free San Antonio Symphony performance at San Antonio’s Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.

An A+ for School Field Trips

By Renee Haines

It’s the classic rite of school kids -- climbing aboard yellow buses with permission slips in hand to explore the larger world of history, science, nature and the arts outside the classroom.

Alas, more budget-strapped schools in Texas and around the country are reducing the number of school field trips in recent years, according to the American Association of School Administrators. That’s in the face of numerous studies confirming the measurable academic benefits of off-campus learning expeditions.

For example, the zoo reports that while about 100,000 school children visit the San Antonio Zoo each year, school budget constraints have dropped that number from its previous high of 150,000 each year in the late 1990s.

Field trip destinations like the zoo offer community sponsorship opportunities to help fund the cost of school field trips. More parents are also pitching in to help teachers win field trip grants from national 12

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

corporations like Target or local programs like the San Antonio Water System’s mini-grant initiative.

At the same time, programs are becoming more flexible to accommodate visits organized by parents whose kids attend schools that don’t offer field trips.

“They can organize a Real Wild class. They can ask for a custom class. Or, they can just come,” Karen Macias, the zoo’s director of education, advises local parents.

Real Wild Classroom is a hands-on class and guided zoo tour with themed activities aligned with the state’s TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) learning standards for students. Macias says it’s one of the more popular field trips offered by the zoo.

With ample information available about the animals and various field trip programs posted at the zoo’s website, parents can readily learn about field trips planned by their kids’ schools or investigate FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY planning their own excursions. “We also have a zoo app for your phone,” she says.

More than a dozen nationally published studies show that field trips can measurably increase a student’s vocabulary, cognitive skills, test scores and pursuit of in-depth learning.

At the zoo, kids can practice their reading skills by studying the history of animals posted at each exhibit.

On “math days,” kids can practice dividing, multiplying and exploratory thinking. “Science is learning about habitats and animal adaptation,” Macias says.

For high school kids, career and college opportunities are also a focus.

“We do a class where they can talk to vet techs and see some of the amazing things we do here with animals. Our veterinarian is now certified in acupuncture for animals,” she says.

“Field trips broaden their horizons about what they could be looking into for a career.” For those

Kids can get close to the animals on school field trips to the San Antonio Zoo.

interested in teaching, for example, the zoo has its own fully licensed nature-based preschool on the premises.

Field Trip Pros While San Antonio’s zoo has a century of experience educating school kids, the San Antonio

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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

13

FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY “One major goal is to inspire younger children to want to play an instrument,” Brimhall says. “There is a growing body of research that shows kids who are active participants in learning to play musical instruments have significant advantages in learning outcomes.”

Americans for the Arts reports that students who participate in the arts for at least three hours a week for one year are four times more likely to be recognized for improved academic achievements.

The Texas Music Educators Association reports that students of the arts tend to outperform their non-arts peers on college entrance exams.

Low-income students who are “highly engaged” in the arts are more than twice The San Antonio Symphony performs free youth concerts each year for visiting school kids on field trips. as likely to graduate college as their peers with no exposure to arts education.

Symphony is not far behind with 75 years of education The symphony introduced a new program last year to outreach. its free-admission Young People’s Concert series for kids Exposure to the arts is its own reward for the 33,000 in grades three to five. In partnership with Carnegie Hall, San Antonio area students served by the symphony last the “Link Up: The Orchestra Moves” program allowed year, but ample studies show across-the-board academic kids to prepare for and participate with the orchestra by advantages, says Jeremy Brimhall, the symphony’s direcsinging or playing recorders. tor of education.

Family Art Play Playful Patterns Sunday, September 27 1:00 & 3:00 pm

Check out Stephen Westfall’s large geometric painting in the McNay’s lobby! Then, be bold with patterns or go wild creating an original design.

Free with museum admission. McNay members reserve space by calling 210.805.1768 by noon on September 25.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Image: Stephen Westfall, Rosewood (detail), 2013. Oil and alkyd on canvas.

This program is made possible by generous support from the Jack H. and William M. Light Charitable Trust.

Major support of the McNay’s educational programs is provided by the Valero Fund for Excellence in Museum Education, the Nancy Smith Hurd Foundation, and the Hearst Foundations.

6000 North New Braunfels | PO Box 6069 San Antonio, Texas 78209-0069 mcnayart.org

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Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

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FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY “The students were so eager to do well,” Brimhall says. “The level of excitement was incredible.”

Last year’s program involved 7,157 students from 131 school and homeschool groups, plus more than 2,000 donated recorders. The program earned a 100 percent score from teachers asked to grade the new initiative, according to the nonprofit Texas Cultural Trust.

In San Antonio, kids can join field trips or independently arranged visits to museums, art galleries, the local aquarium, the city’s historic missions, parks and nature centers. At San Antonio’s Young Chefs Academy, they can combine learning with cooking lessons.

In the Kitchen “If they’re studying American history, they can learn colonial era recipes. If they’re learning about different countries, they can learn about Italy while making pasta from scratch,” says Mary Carmen del Rio, the cooking academy’s owner, lead chef and instructor.

Like San Antonio’s zoo, her academy will help arrange age-appropriate “mini field trips” for parents who want to plan non-school expeditions for their kids, neighborhood children or community groups.

“What I tell parents is that these are life skills,” she says about her cooking-centric curriculum. “We incorporate healthy and easy ways of cooking, so they

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Even pre-school kids are old enough to wear chef’s hats during school field trips to Young Chefs Academy in San Antonio.

can make their own meals when they’re out on their own,” del Rio says.

To learn more about grants available to schools for local field trips, visit the website of Target at https:// corporate.target.com/corporate-responsibility/grants/ field-trip-grants or the San Antonio Water System at www.saws.org/education/grants.

To plan independent field trips, visit the education pages at websites of local destinations of interest.

Renee Haines is a San Antonio freelance writer.

September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

15

FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY ANIMALS

COMMERCIAL

Animal Defense League 11300 Nacogdoches Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 655-1481 Ezt 110 www.adltexas.org

San Antonio Fire Museum 801 E. Houston San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 390-7236 www. sanantoniofiremuseum.org

No-kill, non-profit organization dedicated to providing shelter, medical care, food and safety to abandoned and abused dogs and cats while searching for loving homes for them.

Fiesta Farms 8497 FM 1560 NW San Antonio 210316-3166

Fiesta Farm hosts educational field trips for ages 3 - 11. Hands on animal lessons, hayride and fun activities.

Pumpkin Patch In fall. Prices $5-$6.

NW San Antonio.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch 26515 Natural Bridge Cavern Rd. San Antonio, TX 78266 830-438-7400 groupsales@ WildlifeRanchTexas.com www.WildlifeRanchTexas.com

Visit Africa – in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. View our 50 different species, from addax antelope to zebras, llamas to ostriches. With the animal feed provided at the entrance you may entice many of these animals to come near for a morsel. See, feed and photograph many of our animals, including the friendly Sicilian donkey, the majestic greater kudu, the inquisitive Oryx, and the always hungry buffalo.

We invite you to the visit the San Antonio Fire Museum, located downtown at the Old Fire Station # 1, to learn about the history of the SA Fire Department. Through the use of displays and exhibits of apparatus, equipment and photos, the Museum presents San Antonio’s firefighting past to visitors in an informative and historically distinctive atmosphere.

Field trips to the SAFM are for groups of 30 students or less, from PreK to 12th grade. At least one chaperone must accompany every 10 students. Hours are Tuesday –Saturday from 10:00 a.m.

- 4:00 p.m. Reservations must be made in advance..

VIA Metropolitan Transit Education Programs 800 W. Myrtle San Antonio TX 78212 362-2381 www.viainfo.net

Learn about public transportation. VIA can bring our special bus to your school to teach riding safety or take a tour of our facilities. We also help teacher plan field trips using the bus system. Call for details.

Whole Foods Market The Quarry - 255 East Basse, #130 826-4676 The Vineyards - 18403 Blanco Road 408-3110 www.wholefoodsmarket. com

San Antonio Aquarium 6320 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX 78238 210-310-3210 www.SanAntonioAquarium.net

The San Antonio Aquarium field trips provide augmented, age-specific teachings for pre- and post-visit study for San Antonio area PreK – College students.Our hope is to inspire a new generation of ocean explorers and conservationists from Greater San Antonio through education and shared experience with live animals in order to create an ever expanding appreciation for our planet’s oceans. The experience will instill respect and awe for marine life and the rich aquatic resources of our planet’s wetter 78%. Students will expand their understanding of our ecosystems as they engage all five senses for maximized learning.

SeaWorld San Antonio Field Experiences 10500 SeaWorld Drive San Antonio, TX 78251 800-700-7786

Bring your school group, including home school groups, to SeaWorld for our special groups-only hours. Visit with our dolphins, sharks, seals and sea lions. You’ll also attend special animal presentations designed specifically for education groups. Bring your own lunch and your group can enjoy a picnic right here in the park. Cost: Call for rates.

Ages: Call for rates and scheduling.

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Whole Foods Market offers tours to the community to teach children about important concepts including organic and natural food, fruits, vegetables, no growth hormones, no food coloring, no preservative, no additives and no hydrogenated oils. Whole people, Whole planet and Whole Earth. Call for more information.

ENTERTAINMENT/ ART Artworks www.artworksartstudio.com

Bring your class or group to Artworks.

Our studio is set up in centers, we take children on a tour and let them explore on their own. There are twelve art centers children can play in. Chaperones may pick the art center before the scheduled field trip. Perfect outing for sport teams, scout troops, day care centers and playgroups. We have art centers/stations for older children and teens too. $5 per child for the basic field trip package. Three locations in the San Antonio! www. artworksartstudio.com

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

For the Love of Drums 210-260-2221 www.fortheloveofdrums.com

Onsite and mobile field trips. Save time fuel and other transportation hassles by bringing our field trips to your location. Flat rate per hour. We provide all instruments. For a quick and easy field trip go to our website to register.

IMAX Theatre Rivercenter Rivercenter Mall, Downtown San Antonio 247-4629 www.imax-sa.com

Cost: call for rates. Hours: call for schedule.

Where “Education and Adventure Meet.” A vast film library open to educators including the following: Alamo, Price of Freedom, Amazon, Born to be Wild 3D, Flight of the Butterflies, Flying Monsters 3D, The Human Body, Amazing Caves, Lewis & Clark just to name a fewok. Ideal field trip for all ages with discounts for groups, advance reservations and assigned seating.

The Magik Theatre 420 South Alamo San Antonio, TX 78205 Call 210-227-2751 www.Magiktheatre.org

Find out what over half a million children representing more than 400 schools throughout central and South Texas have experienced! All of our productions are based on books children are reading in school, and are accompanied by a comprehensive study guide packed with standardsbased activities. Group rates available.

Call 210-227-2751 for reservations.

The Royal Canvas Painting Parlor 5005 Broadway Alamo Heights, TX 78209 826-7246 www.theroyalcanvas.com

At The Royal Canvas, where you come to us or we go to you, children love exploring their creative talents! Learn different painting techniques with non-toxic acrylic paints and have fun with mixed media selections too!

Regardless of your skill or motivation, The Royal Canvas Painting Parlor has just the right class for you. We strive to offer diversity, and hope that we are achieving that goal. We always welcome your ideas. And most of all, we want to assist you in “Fulfilling your arts desire”! Group rates are available.

Call or visit our website for more information.

The Tower of Americas 210-223-3101 600 Hemisfair Plaza Way San Antonio, TX 78205 www.toweroftheamericas. com

For more than 35 years, the 750-foottall Tower of the Americas has offered the most breathtaking views of the Alamo City. Bring your school group or scout group to the Tower of the Americas and learn about the history of Texas. Also experience our Skies Over Texas 4D Theater ride! Special group packages available.

HISTORICAL SITES The Alamo 300 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210- 225-1391 On February 23, 1836 the arrival of General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna’s army outside San Antonio nearly caught the Texians and Tejanos, who defended the Old Spanish Mission turned fort, by surprise. See where the defenders held out for 13 days against Santa Anna’s Army. Walk along the same paths that were walked by Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, Col. Travis, Juan Seguin. History talks, for children 4th grade & up, are given every 30 minutes. Please check our website for more details.

Cost: call for rates. Hours: call for schedule.

Casa Navarro State Historic Site 228 S. Laredo San Antonio, TX 78207 226-4801 http://www.thc.state.tx.us/ hsites/hs_casa_navarro. shtml Cost: Adults, $4; Ages 6-18/Students with I.D, $3 per person; Group rates are available. Hours: Tues. – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 12 – 5pm.

Casa Navarro State Historic Site, in downtown San Antonio, is the restored home of Tejano patriot José Antonio Navarro. Navarro was an influential figure in Texas during the momentous fifty-five year period (1810-1865) when the state’s destiny was forged.

A leading advocate of Tejano rights, he is best known as “The Strongest Defender of the Rights of His People.”

Today, visitors tour Navarro’s adobe home furnished with period antiques, read copies of his writing and discuss questions of history with informed park interpreters.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Exit IH-10 at Probrandt, follow signs 534-8833 www.nps.gov/saan Cost: Free. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Reservations are not required for entry or activities. Education groups and youth groups are required to make a reservation even if planning to selfguide. In 1718 Franciscans and Spanish representatives established the first mission. Within 13 years San Jose, Espada, and San Juan Capistrano were located along the San Antonio River.

Today visitors can retrace the footsteps of the mission Indians and friars. Run by the National Park Service. Handicap accessible.

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FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY Southwest School of Art 300 Augusta San Antonio, TX 78201 224-1848 www.swschool.org

We invite you to visit our campus to learn the story of the Southwest School of Art & Craft and its historic site in the Ursuline History Center. Docent tours of the historic main building, old copper kitchen and grounds are available, but please call for hours, free parking.

Arrangements for other times or for groups larger than 15, can be made by calling ahead. Come learn about the history of early San Antonio as well as contemporary art.

Spanish Governor’s Palace 105 Military Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 224-0601 http://www.nps.gov/nr/ travel/American_Latino_ Heritage/Spanish_Governors_ Palace.html Call for Tour information

Originally built in 1722 to protect the mission (Alamo) and its surrounding colony, this ten-room aristocratic Spanish House was home to 32 Spanish governors and is complete with furnishing from the early 18th century. The Governor’s Palace is the only remaining example in Texas of an aristocratic early Spanish house. For an added educational experience at the Palace, visitors are encouraged to visit on the last Sunday of the month when La Compania de Cavalleria del Real

Presidio de Bexar visits. Mostly handicap accessible.

Institute of Texan Cultures 801 S. Bowie Street San Antonio, TX 78205 458-2300 wwww.texancultures.com

Steves Homestead 509 King William St. San Antonio, TX 78204 225-5924 www.saconservation.org

Group rates are available. Hours: 10 a.m. – 3:30p.m. This elegant three-story mansion, located in the King William Historic District on the east bank of the San Antonio River was built in 1876 for Edward Steves. In 1952 the homestead was donated to the San Antonio Conservation Society. The property once boasted about having San Antonio’s first indoor pool, now a meeting facility, also included on the grounds are The Carriage House, River House and the Servant’s Quarters which is now the visitor’s center. Now offering self guided tours and the latest tour: From Root to Rafters – A behind the Scenes Look at the Hidden Homestead. Call for more information.

Yturri-Edmunds House and Mill Historic Site 128 Mission Road 534-8237 www.saconservation.org

MUSEUMS

We’re sorry - We will be closed until 2014 due to construction on Mission Road. When we reopen, we will be part of the Mission Trail, a nine mile route connecting the Alamo to Mission Espada.

A cultural heritage museum associated with the Smithsonian Institution. Call for Field Trip information.

Louis Tussaud’s Plaza Wax Museum & Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 301 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 224-9299 www.plazawaxmuseum.com

Two museums under one roof. Fun for all ages! 250 wax figures – Ripley’s contains over 500 unique exhibits.

Fun, historical, educational, discounted group rates available for 12 or more.

McNay Art Museum 6000 N New Braunfels Ave San Antonio, TX 78209-4618 (210) 824-5368 www.mcnayart.org

Enjoy a free docent-led tour or selfguided experience at the McNay Art Museum! We have many options for you to choose from related to curriculum or our permanent and temporary exhibitions. Call the Scheduler at 210.805.1767 or e-mail tours@ mcnayart.org to set up a visit. Bus reimbursements are available.

The Buckhorn Museum

318 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205 210-247-4004 www.buckhornmuseum.com

More than just a normal museum, we’re five museums in one! We have Horns, Fins, Feathers, The Hall of Texas History Wax Museum, and regular special exhibits unlike anything seen in any other museums in the world . We don’t like the idea that museums have to be stuffy, quiet places. How are you going to get excited about that! Ooh and ahh at the sites, get close to our world record holding trophy mounts, see our collection of oddities!

Texas Transportation Museum 11731 Wetmore Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 490-3554 www. txtransportationmuseum.org

Hours: Thurs. & Fri., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Thursday is group day, reservations must be made in advance. Train rides start at noon and end at 4:30, every 45 minutes.

For many youngsters, this will be their very first train ride. Reading about railroads in books or on the internet cannot compare with the real live experience of riding the rails or seeing a genuine traditional depot and walking through old fashioned passenger cars that became sleepers at night as even what we consider to be relatively short journeys today sometimes took days in days gone by.

Have fun learning about Drums, Percussion, Keyboard, and Guitar:

Field Trips - Save gas - We come to you!

After School Classes - Ott Elementary, Helotes Elementary, Howsman Elementary and NISD Learning Center Private Lessons - Limited Spaces

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FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY US Army Medical Department Museum Ft. Sam Houston 226-0265 www.ameddmuseumfoundation.org

History of Army Medicine from 1775 to the present including uniforms, equipment, vehicles, and aircraft used by the army medical department. Goals of the Foundation are to sustain the legacy and heritage of the Army Medical Dept.; to educating the civilian and military communities on the significant contributors of the Army Medical Dept. to the nation’s health care.

Witte Museum 3801 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 357-1910 www.wittemuseum.org

A field trip to the Witte Museum is available to groups from schools (including home schools), day care centers, or professional groups and organizations. Self- guided visits must be scheduled at least eight days in advance. Group rates are available with fifteen people per groups. At least one adult chaperone must accompany every 10 students. Call Witte Museum guest reservations to schedule a self-guided group visit.

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NATURE Cave Without a Name 325 Kreutzberg Rd. Boerne, TX 78006 830-537-4212 or 888-TEX-CAVE www.cavewithoutaname.com

Well-informed guides lead you through a one hour educational tour of this masterpiece of natures’ art. The Cave is filled with spectacular formations of Stalactites, Stalagmites, delicate Soda Straws, Cave Drapery, magnificent Flowstones, Rimstone Dams, and more. Enjoy a tour of the six major rooms in comfort; 66º year-round, easy walkways, brilliant lighting Gift shop and hiking trails on the surface. To protect the beauty of the cave and the safety of our visitors, the size of each tour is limited to 25 people.

Cibolo Nature Center 140 City Park Rd. Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-4616 education@cibolo.org www.cibolo.org

Outdoor classroom in 100-acre park with woodland, marsh, prairie and Cibolo Creek. Offers TEKS aligned programs for K-6 school groups. Come have fun while you learn! Call for rates and scheduling.

COSA Parks & Recreation – Natural Areas 21395 Milsa San Antonio, TX 78256 698-1057 www.sanaturalareas.org

©2015 San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau.

18

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

Meet the plants, animals and rocks of the San Antonio Natural Areas! Guided trips last 1 to1-1/2 hours. Appropriate for all ages.

Devine Acres 944 FM 2200 W Devine, TX 78016 830-665-9730 www.devineacresfarm.com

Field trips are geared for Pre-K through 3rd grade students and we have three seasons of learning: fall, winter and spring. The cost is $7.00 per student (Teachers and Teacher Aides FREE) and they last approximately 3 hours (10-1:00). Each field trip includes an informative learning session about parts of a plant and the plant growth cycle, with a focus on pumpkins, Christmas trees, and flowers. No matter which season you attend the field trip experience includes the students learning while making a craft (included in the cost), and the students always have something to take home, plus a hayride and visit to feed and pet our barnyard animals. Make your on-line reservation now at www.

DevineAcresFarm.com

Natural Bridge Caverns 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road San Antonio, TX 78266 210-651-6101 tickets@naturalbridge caverns.com www.naturalbridgecaverns.com

Experience an incredible underground world of natural beauty. An exciting and educational 75-minute guided tour takes you 180 feet underground.

Lesson plans available. Group rates available with reservation (please call for availability and pricing). Located between San Antonio and New Braunfels, 8 miles west of I-35 at exit #175.

San Antonio Botanical Garden 555 Funston @ N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78209 207-3255 www.sabot.org

Groups of 15 students (pre-K-High school; public/private/home school) are eligible for a school group rate. Call 207-3255 for more information and reservations.

South Texas Maize Hondo, TX 830-741-3968 fun@southtexasmaize.com www.southtexasmaize.com

Your basic field trip admission includes our 7-acre maze, the Twin Cow train, Farmer Ken’s Kiddie Korral, a hayride, and the hay bale jump. Our Corn Popper and Matter-Corn slide Mountain are available for an additional fee. Field trips are available by RESERVATION ONLY Tuesday - Friday from 9-2 p.m.

Allow 2-4 hours. One chaperone/ Teacher is required per 3-5 students.

This required adult is admitted FREE. We are now offering special times, dates and activities for Home Schoolers! The South Texas Maize has picnic areas, restrooms with hand washing facilities.

Field trips can be scheduled from September 22 - November 13, 2015 .

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FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY PERFORMING ARTS Carver Community Cultural Center 226 N. Hackberry St. San Antonio, TX 78202 207-7211 www.thecarver.org The Carver Community Cultural Center is composed of two historic theaters. We offer African American and multicultural presentations in music, dance, theater and visual arts as well as student performances, docent led gallery tours, workshops and classes in the visual and performing arts.

For the Love of Drums 210-260-2221 www.fortheloveofdrums.com Onsite and mobile field trips. Save time fuel and other transportation hassles by bringing our field trips to your location.

Flat rate per hour. We provide all instruments. For a quick and easy field trip go to our website to register.

Jensen’s Yamaha Music School 2241 NW Military Hwy. San Antonio, TX 78213 366-5048 www.jensensyamahamusic.com Music appreciation, introduction to instruments, keyboard playing, large motor muscle developmental skills at your school or our studio. Handicapped accessible. Limit 15 students.

The San Antonio Symphony 222 E. Houston San Antonio, TX 78205 554-1010 www.sasymphony.org Education is central to the mission of the San Antonio Symphony. The San Antonio Symphony has been working to bring music educational programs to the schoolchildren of Bexar County for 75 years. One important reason that the Symphony reaches out to almost 40,000 students annually is because of the statistics collected proving a correlation between music instruction and increased academic ability.

ROAD TRIPS Aquarena Center 921 Aquarena Springs Dr. San Marcos, TX 78666 512-245-7570 www.aquarena.txstate.edu Cost: call for rates. Hours: open daily, call for scheduling. Aquarena Center’s educational mission is to provide people of all ages with the ability to recognize Spring Lake as an unique freshwater ecosystem through interpretative interactive experiences that engages the audience in an exploration of interconnections between all living things and water. Glass bottom boats view the amazing San Marcos Springs. Wetlands walk, public aquariums and native trails provide the perfect outdoor adventure for all ages.

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South Texas Maize Hondo, TX 830-741-3968 fun@southtexasmaize.com www.southtexasmaize.com

Your maize admission includes our 7-acre maze, the barrel train, children’s play area, a hayride, the hay jump and the mini “mind” maze. Field trips are available by RESERVATION ONLY Tuesday - Friday from 9-2 p.m. Allow 2-4 hours. One chaperone/ Teacher is required per 3-5 students. We are now offering special times, dates and activities for Home Schoolers! The South Texas Maize has picnic areas, portapotties with hand washing facilities. Field trips can be scheduled from September 30 - November 26, 2014 .

Texas Agricultural Education & Heritage Center 390 Cordova Rd. Seguin, TX 78155 830-379-1122 or 830-379-0933 www.texagedu.org

Visit our center, a working farm, to learn about food, fiber, animals and the heritage of farming and ranching. A great learning experience.

Texas State Aquarium North Beach Corpus Christi TexasStateAquarium.org

Texas State Aquarium offers students experiences that compliment classroom curriculum, align with grade specific TEKS concepts and process skills, and promote STEM exploration. Grade appropriate Aquarium Discovery Programs immerse K-12 students in hands-on, studentcentered STEM activities promoting investigation, critical thinking and

creativity within the Aquarium’s diverse habitats, classrooms and nearby marine environments. Please register for programs at least two weeks in advance.

For more information or registration, please call (361) 881-1307 or email reserve@txstateaq.org.

Texas State Capitol Tours Austin, TX 512-463-0063 http://www.tspb.state.tx.us/ SPB/Plan/Tours.htm The Capitol Complex makes a perfect complement to a visit to the city. Our various facilities are designed to serve visitors to the Capitol, whether observing the legislative process, strolling the grounds, buying a unique gift, learning about Texas history, or simply enjoying the magnificent architecture of the complex buildings. Groups of 10 or more should make advanced reservations.

LITERATURE Central Library Children’s Department 600 Soledad Street San Antonio, TX 78205 207-2500 ask for Children’s Department www.mysapl.org The “Enchilada Experience” tour highlights the Central Library’s architecture and art. Browse our extensive collection and settle in for stories. Groups may make advance reservations.

September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

19

FIELD TRIP DIRECTORY planning their own excursions. “We also have a zoo app for your phone,” she says.

More than a dozen nationally published studies show that field trips can measurably increase a student’s vocabulary, cognitive skills, test scores and pursuit of in-depth learning.

At the zoo, kids can practice their reading skills by studying the history of animals posted at each exhibit.

On “math days,” kids can practice dividing, multiplying and exploratory thinking. “Science is learning about habitats and animal adaptation,” Macias says.

For high school kids, career and college opportunities are also a focus.

“We do a class where they can talk to vet techs and see some of the amazing things we do here with animals. Our veterinarian is now certified in acupuncture for animals,” she says.

“Field trips broaden their horizons about what they could be looking into for a career.” For those

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Kids can get close to the animals on school field trips to the San Antonio Zoo.

interested in teaching, for example, the zoo has its own fully licensed nature-based preschool on the premises.

Field Trip Pros While San Antonio’s zoo has a century of experience educating school kids, the San Antonio

September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

13

Baby

Infantile Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER)

by Jessa McClure

Your slumbering infant has finished feeding and is now sleeping peacefully in your arms. As you go to lay him down in his crib, you notice that he begins to arch his back and wince in pain. Then, without warning a stream of spit-up comes rolling out of his mouth, soaking his clothes and bedding.

This child could be suffering from one of the most common causes of stomach discomfort and regurgitation in children younger than two. It is called gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and it can be a frustrating and messy experience for parents.

What are infantile GER and GERD?

“The passage of gastric contents into the esophagus is a normal physiologic process that occurs in healthy infants, children and adults,” said Methodist Hospital of San Antonio pediatric gastroenterologist, Maan Khatib, MD. “Most episodes are brief and do not cause symptoms or complications.”

Although, GER is a typical occurrence in all age groups, there is a more serious form of this condition called gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) that if left untreated could cause damage to the esophagus.

“GERD occurs when the reflux episodes are associated with complications such as tissue damage or poor weight gain,” Khatib said.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms of GERD include regurgitation (spit up),

20

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

vomiting, and arching of the back and turning the head to the side after eating.

“If you think your baby has any of the warning signs, you should have your baby checked by your doctor,” the pediatric gastroenterologist said.

It’s especially important to contact a physician if your child is exhibiting any of these dangerous symptoms: ■■Bilious vomiting (vomit that includes yellow or green

stomach bile)

■■ Vomiting blood

■■Abdominal tenderness

■■Difficulty breathing

■■Bloody stool

■■Frequent pneumonia ■■Poor weight gain

■■Consistently forceful

vomiting

■■Fever

■■Eczema

■■Strong family history of

atopic disease

How is it diagnosed?

If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms and seek the help of a family physician or pediatric gastroenterologist, they will take the child’s history (information about feedings, family history and previous medical issues) and physically examine your son or daughter. Dr. Khatib said these methods are usually sufficient in establishing a diagnosis.

“On occasion, lab work, a radiographic study, an endoscopy FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

and a pH study might be needed for further evaluation,” he said.

How is it treated?

This condition is treated in a number of ways. Many times the child’s symptoms aren’t severe enough to warrant medication.

“In most cases, parental education, reassurance, and anticipatory guidance are recommended,” Dr. Khatib said. “Most infants outgrow reflux by the first year on their own without intervention, helped by simple changes in feeding techniques.”

These methods could include:

■■Smaller, more frequent feedings ■■Burping during and after feedings ■■Positioning the infant upright during and after feedings and

while sleeping

■■Thickening formula with cereal

However, if the child’s symptoms are more severe, a more aggressive treatment might be prescribed. Some of the treatments could include: avoiding dairy products and soy by the breast feeding mother or switching to a hypoallergenic formula, in case of cow’s milk protein allergy, acid suppression medications, or surgical intervention, which is rare.

How long does GER last?

The good news is that most cases of infantile GER clear up on their own by 12 to 14 months of age, without causing any long-term effects.

“But if the condition is GERD, the baby may have poor growth, malnutrition, esophagitis, esophageal stricture and respiratory problems and infections,” the doctor said.

The best way to prevent these more serious problems is to consult with your child’s doctor at the first sign of reflux.

At Sunshine Cottage, children with hearing loss and normal hearing grow and learn together in a nurturing and fun environment.

All students experience the finest education available in South Texas with a low student-to-teacher ratio (6:1) and a hands-on approach to learning, encompassing all State standards.

How common are GER and GERD?

And although parents can sometimes feel as though their child is the only going through this, they can be assured that approximately 50 percent of infants younger than three months spit up after eating.

“It is a common problem and is concerning to most parents,” Dr. Khatib said. “However, with growth and development reflux resolves spontaneously in most healthy infants.”

For more resources and information about infantile GER and GERD, the pediatric gastroenterologist suggests visiting the sites of the American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org), the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (naspghan.org), Maan Khatib, MD or gikidslorg.

Call for information

(210) 824-0579

Begin the Adventure: • Early Childhood & Elementary classes • Dynamic Curriculum • State-of-the-art technology • Outdoor & Discovery classrooms

• Music & Art classes • Certified teaching staff • Small student teacher ratio • Physical Education • Convenient location

603 E. Hildebrand Ave. • San Antonio, Texas • 78212 www.sunshinecottage.org Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, OPTIONSchools International and is a TEA Approved non-public school.

Jessa McClure is a freelance writer, blogger, wife and mother of two.

Sunshine Cottage is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit educational organization. We accept students regardless of sex, race, affiliation, disability, or national origin.

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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

May 2014.indd 1

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4/22/2014 11:45:56 AM

Special Needs

Engaging the Daydreamer

by Christa Melnyk Hines

When my son’s second grade teacher told me that he often appeared to “check out” during the school day, I was concerned. But I wasn’t entirely surprised that my imaginative child would drift off to his dream world, an infinitely more colorful place than a math facts worksheet. Nonetheless, his daydreaming needed to be addressed.

While many dreamers are creative and bright children, they may have trouble getting work done during the school day, struggle with paying attention to the teacher and forget to turn in homework.

Worse, they can easily get pegged as slackers.

“The tendency to daydream––though it may be one symptom of Attention Deficit Disorder––does not automatically equal a problem with paying 22

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

attention when necessary or completing tasks,” writes Amy Fries, author of Daydreams at Work: Wake Up Your Creative Powers. “A child who enjoys daydreaming could well be a budding scientist, writer, artist or visionary entrepreneur.”

Because daydreams play an important role in a child’s social-emotional development and creativity, you wouldn’t want to quash a child’s imagination. Rather, the goal is to help him channel the behavior to more appropriate times of the day.

Daydreaming isn’t uncommon. A study conducted by Harvard psychologists found that we tend to daydream about 47 percent of the time.

Some of our society’s most innovative change FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

makers, artists and inventors like Thomas Edison, Mark Twain and Albert Einstein were famous daydreamers.

While the future may be bright for dreamers, it is necessary to find ways to help children engage in order to learn and enjoy success in a structured academic environment.

“The daydreamer is usually fascinated by something that’s been said and is off in that world,” says Dr. Gay Lynn Pendleton Smith, assistant dean of the University of Phoenix College of Education.

The secret to reaching a dreamer, she says, is to teach him how to engage outside of his imagination.

“That’s really hard in today’s fast-paced world. Our children are connected to a handheld technology device that gives them one-on-one attention and then we put them in a classroom and ask them to focus on something and do something they haven’t done before. And that’s to engage with a whole group of people and to focus on one individual,” Smith says.

Signs of inattentiveness disorder, which is on the ADHD spectrum: ■■Easily distracted, miss details, forget things, and

frequently switch from one activity to another

■■Have difficulty focusing on one thing ■■Become bored with a task after only a few minutes,

unless they are doing something enjoyable

■■Have difficulty focusing attention on organizing and

completing a task or learning something new

■■Have trouble completing or turning in homework

assignments, often losing things (e.g., pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities

■■Doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to ■■Daydream, become easily confused, and move slowly ■■Have difficulty processing information as quickly and

accurately as others

ADHD? Learning disability?

Don’t address the symptom.

Address the cause.

■■Struggle to follow instructions

Source: National Institute of Mental Health

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23

How can you re-engage your daydreamer? Here are a few tips: Ensure quiet observation time. Consider if your child is getting enough time to play quietly on his own. Kids given regular quiet time are more likely to exhibit time management and problem solving abilities. Time alone also fosters creativity, self-confidence and independence. Plus, solitude gives kids the opportunity to drive their own play without having to compromise or go along with what the group demands.

Seek physical and creative outlets.

“Outside activities will satisfy some of that dream mode so that when they get in the classroom they can engage and start to think,” Smith says. Activities like swimming, karate, art, theater or playing an instrument can nurture concentration skills and provide avenues for self-expression.

Encourage note-taking. Talk to your child’s teacher about having him take notes or write down basic words or pictures describing what the teacher says. Older children can also write down thoughts

that come up on an idea pad. That way they won’t lose the thought, but can continue to focus on the teacher or task at hand.

Discuss seating arrangements. Talk to the teacher about seating your child toward the front of the classroom or just off to the side. By being in the middle of the action, her thoughts may be less likely to wander.

Ask questions. Encourage your child to think of questions she can ask the teacher during instructional time. Also look for opportunities to connect with and listen to your child one-on-one, whether driving in the car or while engaged in a creative process like cooking or baking. Knowing that you are interested in her thoughts may help her feel less inclined to drift off.

If your child continues to struggle with focus and paying attention, consult with your pediatrician.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. Visit her at www.christamelnykhines.com.

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calendar

OF EVENTS /

SEPTEMBER September 11

2nd Annual EMA Kid’s Film Festival: Kid’s Free Limo Ride, Kid’s Free Ice Cream from Marble Slab, Live Music from local up-and-coming recording artists Elijah Zehring, Steve Reeves, Troy LeBlanc and vocalist Patsy Zehring will all be part of this film festival.

National motivational speaker Manny Diotte will give the keynote speech. Free Limo Rides every ten minutes from 6 to 7 p.m. Screening of the 5 Trailers and Short films begins at 7:30 p.m. and awards for Best Actors, Best Supporting Roles, Best Production, Best Director and Audience Choice results for Movies follows at 8:30 p.m. Adults $15 and children under 7 years of age $7.

6:15 to 9:30 p.m. Location TBA. 210-473-5182. www. emafilmfest.com

Sept. 12, 13, 19, 20, & 26

Magic at Magik: The Magician’s Agency, starring nationally-renowned master magician Scott Pepper, will have a multi-show run at the Magik Theatre on select weekends through Sept. 26. The Magicians Agency is a secret organization founded and operated by magicians who use their unique abilities and skills to take on dangerous missions and make the world a safer place. In this highly original magic and illusion show they follow the path of one particular magician as he attempts to become a full-fledged member of the Magicians Agency and take on his first mission: incredible award-winning magic, mind-blowing illusions, hilarious comedy, audience participation, daring escapes and baffling sleight of hand – guaranteed entertainment for the whole family. Reservations are required. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for Magik members and 2015-2016 Season Pass holders. 7 p.m. Magik Theatre, 420 South Alamo.

210-227-2751. www.magiktheatre.org

Sept. 11-13

Alamo City Comic Con: Alamo City Comic Con (ACCC) is a celebration of the comic arts in San Antonio where fans of comics, gaming and cosplay meet their favorite celebs, artist and writers. Top tier talent in the form of comic book artists, writers and publishers as well as actors from movies and TV related to comics and pop culture in general will be on hand.

Comics, collectibles, and toys will also be available for purchase. $25-$75. Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, 200 East Market St. www.alamocitycomiccon.com

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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

25

What’s Inside

WEDNESDAY

30 Ongoing Exhibits 32 Family Theatre 34 Free Fun in SA

1 Tuesday

Little Explorers: Preschoolers and their caregivers can use their five senses for fun and adventure as they discover nature through stories, crafts, games, songs and outdoor exploration. The third Tuesday of each month will feature special guest Mother Nature for story time. $5 per family. 10 to 11 a.m. Cibolo Nature Center & Farm, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830249-4616. www.cibolo.org

2 Wednesday

SAMA Playdates: Toddlers can enjoy stories, gallery activities, hands-on art, movement and music during this event designed to cultivate, nurture and inspire creativity while developing an appreciation of art and world cultures.

Participants should meet at the front desk. 10 to 11 a.m.

Free with museum admission. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210978-8183. www.samuseum. org 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. Sundown to 10 p.m. every Wednesday. Free.

Lower Bee Tree soccer field parking lot at McAllister Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road. 210-710-4786. www. sanantonioastronomy.org Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: Hardberger Park’s diversity of flora and fauna is being threatened by exotic invasive weeds and volunteers are needed to combat these weeds each Wednesday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. E-mail

26

wendy.leonard@sanantonio. gov or call 210-207-3292 for directions to week’s location.

Phil Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Road (East Side).

210-207-3106. www.philhardbergerpark.org

3 Thursday

Shakespeare in the Park 2015: The annual Shakespeare in the Park event has become the Renaissance on the River as it changes locations this year. LaVillita will be transformed into a Shakespearean Village for dramatic performances, film presentations, food, drink, crafts and family fun. From Hamlet to falconry there will be something for everyone. Events and times vary by date. Free with paid seating options available. La Villita, 418 Villita St. 210-2272751. www.magiktheatre. org/index.php/special_events/ shakespeare_in_the_park

EVERYDAY Kids eat free with every adult entree purchased 1289 S.W. Loop 410 www.acadianacafe.com

MONDAY

Buffalo Wings & Rings

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 203 North Loop 1604 www.buffalowingsandrings.com

Babes Old Fashion Burgers

Mon - Thurs from 4pm - 7pm kids 9 and under eat free with every adult entree purchase 3 Locations - see website www.babeshamburgers.com

Earl Abel’s

Mon - Thurs from 5pm - 8pm kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 1201 Austin Hwy #175 www.earlabelssa.com

4 Friday

Rome’s Pizza

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

Romes Pizza

Kids eat free 4pm - 8pm with every adult entree purchase

Art Crawl: Moms, dads and caregivers can put their babies in slings and take a walk through the museum galleries for a guided tour.

Talks are geared toward adults while the art selections are chosen to engage the adults and infants 0-18 months. Free with museum admission. 10 to 10:45 a.m.

San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-9788100. www.samuseum.org

Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday.

Free. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. #106. 210-826-6411. www. thetwig.indiebound.com

Kids eat free after 4 pm with every adult entree purchase* All Locations *Excludes 5307 Walzem Road, San Antonio 78218 www.lubys.com

TUESDAY

Marie Callender’s

Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase 4788 NW Interstate 410 Loop www.mariecallenders.com

Kids eat free 4pm - 8pm with every adult entree purchase 3 Locations - see website www.romespizza.com

THURSDAY Oaks Crossing Restaurant & Bar

Kids eat free with every $8 adult entrée purchase 23635 Wilderness Oak San Antonio, TX 78258 www.heb.com/oakscrossing

SATURDAY Kids eat free 11-close with adult purchase* All Locations *Excludes 5307 Walzem Road, San Antonio 78218 www.lubys.com

Marie Callender’s Kids eat free with every adult entree purchase

SUNDAY Free Kid’s Combo with the purchase of one adult meal.

Includes kid-sized sub, dessert, kid’s drink, and fire hat. Valid only at “THE COLONNADE III”. Dine-in only. 9961 IH-10 W San Antonio TX, 78230 www.firehousesubs.com

Visit Our Kids Magazine online for more restaurants that offer Kids Eat Free.

FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

Shakespeare in the Park 2015: see Sept. 3

(East Side), Salado Creek Classroom.

210-207-3280. www.philhardbergerpark.org

5 Saturday

Labor Day Celebration: Bring out the family and enjoy a three-day weekend filled with live music, great food, and family fun. Soza Y Sus Estrellas, Torando Y Los Vengadorez, ACERO, La Naturaleza de Santiago Garza & Raulitio Navaira Y Remedio. Sundays Country music includes Los Tovares, Mario Flores and the soda creek band, Jerry and the Rough Necks, JR Castillo, and Gabe Garcia. Monday concludes with Los Hermanos DeLeon, Los Veteranos, Los RV Boyz, The Conjunto Cats, La Calma, and David Farias Y Los Hermanos Farias will perform. Free.

Noon to 7 p.m. Market Square, 514 W. Commerce. 210-207-860. www.events. getcreativesanantonio.com/event/ detail/441933474/Labor_Day_Celebration

SA Urban Pet Market: This familyfriendly event includes vendors for all pet products/services, food trucks, pet adoptions, interactive dog games with prizes, AKC Canine Good Citizen Testing & much more! This month’s event includes a Superhero Costume Contest for the pooches as well as a Superhero Photo Booth. Proceeds from the event are donated to the local animal rescue groups in attendance each month. Free.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis. 210-722-8601. www.sa-UrbanPetMarket.com First Saturday Hike-Wild Food at Friedrich: Take a family hike along Friedrich Park’s trail with Master Naturalist Peter Ravdin and learn where animals find their food, and how these foods sustain wildlife and past native populations. Following the hike, taste wild berry jams with mesquite flour muffins, courtesy of Meier Ranch Foods of Fredericksburg. RSVP required.

Suggested donation of $3 per person or $6 per family. 10 to11:30 a.m. Friedrich Wilderness Park, 21395 Milsa Drive. 210207-3782. www.sanaturalareas.org Protecting our Rivers and Streams: Erik Gomez of TCI Storm Water, Solid Waste Management Department, provides education about pet waste and storm water pollution. Learn how we as citizens can protect our streams and rivers. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; donations accepted. 9 to 11 a.m. Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Rd

First Saturday at the Alamo: Enjoy First Saturday, an interactive living history event, designed to give visitors a glimpse of life in early Texas. Includes live demonstrations, living history and history talks. 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alamo.

210-225-1391. www.thealamo.org Primer Sabado: On the first Saturday of each month, this event features the best local entertainment, children’s activities and food offered by the city. The Market Square shops and restaurants will all be open for an afternoon of browsing and snacking. Free. Noon to 6 p.m. San Antonio’s Historic Market Square. 210207-8600. www.events.getcreativesanantonio.com MarketPlace at Old Town Helotes: Music,

GET LISTED FOR FREE

Do you have a family-friendly event? Submit your event online at www.ourkidsmagazine.com or e-mail your calendar items and photographs to ourkidssacalendar@gmail.com. The deadline for the October issue is September 8.

Information cannot be accepted by phone.

food and a good time are served up at this event as local craftsmen offer treasures from across South Texas on the first Saturday of the month. Jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh produce and one-of-akind pieces are on display. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 14391 Riggs Rd., Helotes. 210-6955964. www.helotes-tx.gov/marketplace SAMA Tours for the Visually Impaired: Docent-led tours for the blind and visually impaired includes descriptive language, touch, sound and smell to enhance the visitor’s experience with art. Guide dogs, sighted companions and others are welcome on the tours, as are wheelchairs and other walking aids.

Free. 10 to 11 a.m. Call for reservations.

San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8183. www.samuseum.org Shakespeare in the Park 2015: see Sept. 3

6 Sunday

First Sundays for Families- China - Then and Now: Share the first Sunday of each month with the family and explore the exhibition “28 Chinese” and the roots of Chinese art and culture. Activities include pen and ink drawings and a calligraphy workshop. Noon to 4 p.m. Free with admission. San Antonio Museum of Art, Great Hall, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210978-8100. www.samuseum.org Shakespeare in the Park 2015: see Sept. 3 Labor Day Celebration: see Sept. 5 MarketPlace at Old Town Helotes: see Sept. 5

7 Monday

Bravo! Mi Cultura! Will be staged on Friday, Sept. 18 at the Arneson River Theater in La Villita to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. The show begins at 8 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

Helotes Ballet Folklorico Classes: Ballet/ folklorico dance instruction for area children at 5:30 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month. Children and parents should report to the HPD Building, where they will be escorted to the training room for classes. Free.

Helotes Police Dept., 12951 Bandera

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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

27

Special Mentions Reaching Maximum Independence Award Luncheon

Since 1982, Reaching Maximum Independence has been helping local people with special needs and on September 9, they will host their 5th Annual Champion Award Luncheon. The luncheon is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Pearl Stables located at 312 Pearl Parkway. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased at www.rmihomes. org/purchase-tickets.html. This event was created by RMI to recognize the personal commitment and distinction of those who champion the cause of people with special needs.

Voices Youth Poetry Contest Deadline is Oct. 1

All secondary school students aged 18 and younger are invited to submit up to three original poems to The Voices Annual Youth Poetry Contest sponsored

by H-E-B. Deadline to submit is October 1, 2015. Award presentation will be in January 2016 with winners’ poems published in the February issue of Voices de la Luna magazine. All contestants will be invited to the reception and award ceremony and receive a certificate of participation. There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners, all of whom will be published. For submission guidelines, please visit www.voicesdelaluna.com/submissions

Alamotion and Fandango Dance Troupe Auditions Set for September 26

Dancers who are interested in furthering their career by gaining experience performing in front of live audiences are invited to audition on September 26 for one of the Parks and Recreation Department’s two award winning dance troupes, Fandango and Alamotion. Alamotion, which highlights ballet, jazz, tap and hip hop, is looking for dancers, ages 11 to 19, with two years experience in at least three of these dance forms. Fandango, which focuses on Mexican Folklorico and Flamenco dance forms, is looking for dancers, ages 11 to 19, with at least two years experience. Boys auditioning for Fandango must wear black pants and a white top. Girls should wear dance skirts, full leotard and appropriate shoes. Castanets are required for Fandango auditions. For Alamotion, dancers should wear full leotard, dance pants and appropriate shoes. For more information, call 210-207-3132. Alamotion auditions are from 1 to 3 p.m. with registration at noon and Fandango auditions are from 4 to 6 p.m. with registration at 3 p.m. Both auditions take place at Berta Almaguer Dance Studio at 138 S. Josephine Tobin Dr.

Road. 210-416-1498. www.helotestx.gov Labor Day Celebration: see Sept. 5

8 Tuesday

Journaling & Nature Drawing: Students learn to journal their observations of nature. They also identify shapes and sizes of animals and draw them in their nature journals. This class is part of the Fall Explorer Series for students 7- 10 years old. Class size is limited and registration is required. Free; donations accepted. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Rd (East Side), Salado Creek Classroom.

210-207-3280. www.philhardbergerpark.org Art Fit at SAMA: Runners of all levels can come to the museum on the second Tuesday of each month for a leisurely run or walk and a tour of the museum. Enjoy a 5-10 minute talk on fitness, a yoga stretch and a run or walk with professional coaches and runners from Run Wild Sports. Free: runners also get free admission to the museum. 6 to 7 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. www.samuseum.org Little Explorers: see Sept. 1

9 Wednesday

SAMA Playdates: see Sept. 2 Astronomy in the Park: see Sept. 2 Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see Sept. 2

10 Thursday

72nd Annual Alzafar Shrine Circus: Elephants, tigers, acrobats and clowns are all on the program in this traditional, old-time interactive circus. Proceeds are for the benefit of Alzafar Shriners known for their community service projects and philanthropic pursuits and are not tax deductible as charitable deductions. Admission starts at $7 on opening night only. $14-$35. Times vary by date. Freeman Coliseum, 3201 East Houston St. 210-2261177. www.ticketmaster.com Field Journaling & Nature Poetry: Students use journaling to record their observations in nature. They also identify ways to express nature through poetry. This class is part of the Fall Explorer Series for

28

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

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students 10-14 years old. Class size is limited and registration is required.

Free; donations accepted. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Rd (East Side), Salado Creek Classroom. 210-207-3280. www.philhardbergerpark.org

11 Friday

2nd Annual EMA Kid’s Film Festival: see Lead pg 25 31st Annual “Animal” Zoo Run Relay: The San Antonio Zoo is hosting an 8-mile fundraising relay run today with 4-member teams running 2 miles per runner. Bring the family and come cheer them on! The course will take the runners through the zoo grounds and Brackenridge Park and the cost per runner is $35. Sign-up is available online or on-location the day of the run from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. $35. There will be a mini “Kids’ Zoo Run” the following day inside the SA Zoo. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-734-7184. www.sazoo. org “ET: The Extra-Terrestrial” at the Symphony: Director Steven Spielberg’s heartwarming masterpiece comes to the Majestic Theatre.

Families with toddlers can come out and enjoy Family Art Play with “Playful Patterns” on Sun., Sept. 27, at the McNay Art Museum. Sessions are at 1 and 3 p.m.

Mount Sacred Heart School

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Offering San Antonio’s ONLY Catholic & Nationally Awarded Montessori School for Ages 21/2 – 5 years & Traditional PreK-8th grades with Enriched Curriculum

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September 2015 | OurKidsMagazine.com

29

ONGOING EXHIBITS McNay Art Museum

Merida’s Mexico features three complete print portfolios by Carlos Mérida (1891- 1984) from the McNay’s collection. Though born in Guatemala, Carlos Mérida would live most of his life and career in Mexico where he, like so many other modernists working there, would celebrate and document indigenous cultures and traditions through his art. Particularly close to his heart was the pre-Columbian Mayan text called the Popol Vuh. Variously translated as “Book of the People” or “Book of the Community,” the document is a rare survivor of the Spanish conquest that puts forth a creation story for the K’iche or Quiché people of western Guatemala who were Merida’s ancestors. His color lithograph suite, Estampas del Popol Vuh (1943) is his visual interpretation of the texts of this important document. Also close to his heart was dance. Mérida had a great interest in the traditional dances of Mexico and had co-founded the dance school of the Secretariat of Education to teach and thereby preserve them.

Dances of Mexico (1939) is a visual document of the same traditional dances.

Perhaps the most joyous of the three portfolios is Carnival in Mexico (1940) which celebrates the commingling of indigenous cultures and traditions with Catholicism during pre-Lenten festivals throughout the republic of Mexico. The portfolio Dances of Mexico is a recent acquisition so this is the first time that these three complete portfolios, consisting of ten color lithographs each, will be installed together. Exhibit runs through September 6.

Miro: The Experience of Seeing features more than 50 remarkable paintings, drawings, and sculptures created by Joan Miro between 1963 and 1981. Miró: The Experience of Seeing is drawn entirely from the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia in Madrid, Spain. The exhibition features bold, colorful, and often playful compositions that highlight the artist’s ingenuity and offers a fresh assessment of the late period of Miro’s work—something that audiences in the United States have not yet had the opportunity to explore in depth.

The McNay is the only southwest venue and final stop of the exhibition’s U.S. tour. Exhibit runs September 30 through January 10, 2016

30

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

Admission: $10 for adults (12-64); $5 for seniors (65+), students with I.D. (13+), and active duty military; and free for children ages 12 and younger and to all museum members. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and noon-5 p.m.

Sunday. Closed New Year’s Day, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels. 210824-5368. www.mcnayart.org

San Antonio Botanical Garden

Wings of the City showcases eight bronze sculptures by internationally renowned Mexican Artist Jorge Marín. For the past 24 years, these contemporary sculptures have traveled throughout the world, as cultural outreach from Mexico. Public reception/ opening: September 9, 5:30-7:30pm at the Botanical Garden. Exhibit runs September 9 through February 14, 2016 Rainforest Adventure is a maze exhibit that takes guests inside the rainforest, from the soaring canopies all the way to the forest floor with lessons on ecology, biodiversity, adaptability, and conservation. Exhibit runs through September 20.

Admission: $10 adults (14-64); $8 students, seniors, military; $7 children age 3-13; free for children under 3 and all members. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-2073250. www.sabot.org

Institute of Texan Cultures

Texas Czechs: Rooted in Tradition uses engaging narrative text, colorful photography, objects, and films to highlight the vibrancy of Texas Czech culture in the 21st century. Immigrants from around the world have settled in the Lone Star state, each contributing to the it’s unique and dynamic culture. Now the sights and sounds of Czech culture, found throughout Texas on any given day, have inspired an educational exhibition for all to enjoy. Exhibit runs through September 4.

Sikhs: Legacy of the Punjab is a unique, traveling exhibit developed by the Smithsonian Institution and sponsored by the Sikh Heritage Foundation. Sikhs, a unique culture and religion, originate

in the Punjab region of India, straddling the India-Pakistan border. Male Sikhs are easily recognized by their turbans and untrimmed beards. The community and its leaders have been working with the museum to continue educating about their culture, which has experienced discrimination and suspicion in a post-9/11 society. In San Antonio, the Sikh community has grown to nearly 300 families. The exhibit features a collection of traditional Sikh art, information on the culture’s history and beliefs, artifacts such as ceremonial weapons and armor, and a model of the Golden Temple, one of the sacred sites of the Sikh religion.

Exhibit runs through Oct. 18.

Admission: $8 for adults (12-64); $7 for seniors (65+); $6 for children (3-11); free with membership, UTSA or Alamo Colleges identification. Regular hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Institute of Texan Cultures, UTSA HemisFair Park Campus, 801 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. 210-458-2300. www.

TexanCultures.com

The Witte

Discover the Ice Age - A blockbuster exhibition where visitors travel back in time to experience a world covered in ice and occupied by a giant wooly mammoth, saber-toothed cat, a gigantic “terror bird”, dire wolf, cave people and more. Experience firsthand what life was like 2.5 million years ago with life-sized, animatronic models of animals with scientifically accurate movements, coloration, sounds and fur. See a full sized adult mammoth skeleton, wooly mammoth fur, fossils and casts. Learn about the cave people, including Neanderthals and Cro Magnons, the Tar Pits, the death traps of the Ice Age creatures, the Megafaunal Extinction and much more. Explore the unique galleries and learn about new discoveries, how human adaption may have impacted Ice Age creatures and if the Ice Age will return.

Exhibition runs through September 7.

Special admission is $4 for members and $5 for non-members.

Admission: $10 for adults (12-64); $9 for seniors (65+) and active duty military; $7 for children (4-11); and free for children ages 3 and younger and to all museum members. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1900. www.wittemuseum.org FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

Filled with unparalleled magic and imagination, E.T. The ExtraTerrestrial follows the moving story of a lost little alien who befriends a 10-year-old boy named Elliott. Experience all the mystery and fun of their unforgettable adventure in the beloved movie that captivated audiences around the world, complete with John Williams’ Academy Award®-winning score performed live by the San Antonio Symphony in sync to the film projected on a huge HD screen. $39.05-$82.70. 8 p.m. on Sept. 11 and 7 p.m. on Sept. 12. www.sasymphony.org/ events/e-t-the-extra-terrestrial Toddler Art Play: Mini museum visit meets creative playtime for children under 5. This month’s theme is “Imagination”.

Weather permitting, projects will be outdoors. Free with museum admission. 10:30 a.m.

McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-8051768. www.mcnayart.org Laura Salazar of Honey Love Bee Removal will share her knowledge and stories about honeybee rescue at the Sept.

12 “Day in the Life of an Urban Beekeeper” at Friedrich Wilderness Park. The program runs from 10 a.m. to 11:30 am.

Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see Sept. 4 72nd Annual Alzafar Shrine Circus: see Sept. 10

12 Saturday

Magic at Magik: see Lead pg 25 Annual “Animal” Kids’ Zoo Run: Gather your friends to compete in the Kids’ Zoo Run benefiting the San Antonio Zoo. There will be a one-quarter mile course for children 5 and under and a onehalf mile course for those ages 6-11. Both courses run within the confines of the zoo. Help continue the tradition of family entertainment, animal conservation, and education by participating in this year’s SA Antonio Zoo Kids’ Run. This run is open to ages 11 and younger and will be divided into 5 age categories.

Cost is $25 per runner. All runners will receive a t-shirt and a ribbon. Medals will go to top 3 boys and girls finishing in each age group. Starts at 8:30 a.m.

Sign up online at www.kidsrun. kintera.org San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210-7347184. www.sazoo.org/events/ kids-zoo-run Plant Sale: Choose from an abundant selection of the adapted and native plants that

Vanessa Nash Photography Featured San Antonio Photographer

Creating images that truly represent your children and family.

Phone: (210) 802-1552 Email: vanessanashphotography@gmail.com

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31

FAMILY THEATRE

Starting Sept. 22, The Majestic Theatre will host Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Bring the kids and watch Ariel and Ursula in action “Under the Sea”. Show times vary by date. Go to www. BroadwayInSanAntonio.com The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley: Stanley Lambchop is an ordinary boy.

At least he was, until the night his bulletin board fell off the wall and flattened him. All of a sudden, Stanley can slide under doors, mail himself across the country in an envelope and fly like a kite! But when Stanley grows tired of being flat, he wonders if he will ever get to be normal again. Will Stanley ever be normal again? You’ll find out in this hilarious play filled with adventure. Based on the book FLAT STANLEY by Jeff Brown. $10 admission; children under 2 free. Show times vary by date. Runs through August 8. Runs August 21 through September 26. Magik Theatre, 420 South Alamo. 210-227-2751. www.magiktheatre.org Disney’s The Little Mermaid: In a magical kingdom fathoms below, the audience meets Ariel, the little mermaid who is tired of flipping her fins and longs to be part of the fascinating world on dry land. Joining her are Sebastian, Ariel’s crabby sidekick; Ursula, the evil sea witch; Triton, King of the Sea and the handsome and human Prince Eric. The show features all of the favorite songs like “Under The Sea” and “Part of Your World” as well as new songs. Tickets start at $30. Show times vary by date. Runs September 22 through 27. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 210-226-5700. www.BroadwayInSanAntonio.com Annie The Musical (Junior Edition).: Based on the popular comic strip, Annie, the world-wide phenomenon is now adapted for young performers in Annie Jr., a production designed for children of all ages. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under. Runs September 4 through 12. Cameo Theatre, 1123 East Commerce St. 210-212-5454. www.cameocenter.com/Annie are so important for drought-tolerant landscaping. Let Garden volunteer “experts” guide you to the best watersaving performers and just the right plants to enjoy year-round in your own yard. Admission to the Garden is $10 adults; $8 students, seniors, military; $7 children age 3-13; free for children under 3 and all members. Admission to the Plant Sale is included with Garden admission. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3250. www.sabot.org

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Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

International Accordion Festival: Celebrating its 13th anniversary at La Villita Historic Arts Village, the International Accordion Festival will showcase musical traditions from worldwide ethnic, national and regional cultures. The festival will also present young ensembles that fuse old traditions with current sounds. Free. Noon to 11 p.m. La Villita Historic Arts Village, 418 Villita St. 210-207- 6968. www.internationalaccordionfestival.org

Fiestas Patrias: Join LULAC Council 648 in celebrating Fiestas Patrias at Market Square. Enjoy two days of entertainment, delicious “antojitos,” Mariachis, Tejano, Norteno, Conjuntos and oldies groups. Saturday performances include David Marez and Oscar G y Grup Sol. Exhibit booths with free give-aways.

Proceeds to benefit scholarships for college-bound students. Market Square, 514 W. Commerce. 210-207-8600. pueblo31@yahoo.com.

Outdoor Movie at Mission Marquee Plaza: The community is invited to experience the magic and nostalgia of one of San Antonio’s historic gems as the Mission Marquee Plaza will be the setting for an outdoor screening of “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day”. Food trucks and concessionaires will be on hand and attendees are also welcome to bring their own snacks, lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Free. 8:15 to 10:15 p.m.

Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210-207-6968. www.facebook.com/ MissionMarqueePlaza A Day in the Life of an Urban Beekeeper: Learn what it takes to be a beekeeper, the tools you need, and learn about harvesting the honey. Laura Salazar of Honey Love Bee Removal will share her knowledge and stories about honeybee rescue. RSVP required. Suggested donation of $3 per person or $6 per family. 10 to11:30 a.m. Friedrich Wilderness Park, 21395 Milsa Drive. 210-207-3782. www. sanaturalareas.org Komodo Dragon Day: Take the family to the Nature Spot and enjoy games, activities, and presentations throughout the zoo where you’ll learn all about our favorite scaly friends. Kids can take part in activities, games, and crafts. Free with zoo admission. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 210734-7184. www.sazoo.org Jam To The Hilt: Different genres of music coming together in a jam session.

A big musical celebration. $16. 7 p.m.

Little Carver, Carver Cultural Community Center, 226 N. Hackberry, 210-207-7211. www.thecarver.org SABOT Plant Sale: Choose from an abundant selection of the adapted and native plants that are so important for droughttolerant landscaping. Let Garden volunteer “experts” guide you to the best water-saving performers and just the right plants to enjoy year-round in your own yard. Admission to the Garden is $10 adults; $8 students, seniors, military; $7 children age 3-13; free for children under 3 and all members. Admission to the Plant Sale is included with Garden admission. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. San FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

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Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3250. www.sabot.org Kids Club – Insect Collecting: Come and see how many insects you can find at the Herff Farm. Take a look at our sixlegged friends up close with magnifying glasses to see what makes them special. $5 per family. 10 to 11 a.m. No dropoffs allowed. Herff Farm, 33 Herff Rd., Boerne. 830-249-4616. www.cibolo.org Beginners’ Bird Walk: Meet the San Antonio Audubon Society (SAAS) trip leader at the Judson Nature Trail in Alamo Heights on the second Saturday of each month. Nonmembers are welcome and binoculars with instructions can be provided. Free. 8 a.m. 246 Viesca, Alamo Heights. 210-308-6788. saaudubon.org Boerne Market Days: On the second Saturday and Sunday of each month, families can enjoy shopping in an outdoor setting with artists and craftsmen showing their creative talents and wares.

Live music, food, kids’ activities and more. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free. Boerne, Main Plaza.

210-884-8193. www.boernemarketdays. com 72nd Annual Alzafar Shrine Circus: see Sept. 10

Magazine

20th Annual

Phil Hardberger Park’s Urban Ecology Park will be the site of “Saving Our Butterflies,” a program for kids that reinforces the importance of providing native host and nectar plants for endangered butterflies. The program is set for Sat., Sept 19 at 9 a.m.

“ET: The Extra-Terrestrial” at the Symphony: see Sept. 11

13 Sunday

Magic at Magik: see Lead pg 25 Discover Your Roots Family Day: Grandparent’s Day coincides with Free Second Sunday at the Institute of Texan Cultures, and the museum has prepared

programming to make the most out of this annual observance. Representatives from the San Antonio Library Texana and Genealogy Department and several genealogical societies and Texas Gravestone Studies representatives will guide visitors through the processes of discovering their family tree. Children can become history investigators, creating a journal of family stories from their

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33

FREE THINGS TO DO IN SA Briscoe Western Art Museum Free Story Time Stampede on the second Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m. Explores the American West through story and art.

210 W. Market St. 210-299-4118. www. briscoemuseum.org

Downtown Tuesdays

Free parking at city facilities, restaurant deals and special events can be found downtown every Tuesday night from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Information is available online. www.downtowntuesday.com.

Inspire Community Fine Art Center

Free Family Art Day on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 200 Queen Anne Court. 210-8295592. www.inspirefineart.org

McNay Art Museum

Free admission the first Sunday of each month from noon to 5 p.m. and every Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-805-1768. www. mcnayart.org

New Braunfels Railroad Museum

Free Admission every first and third Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids of all ages run the train and become a junior engineer. 302 West San Antonio St., New Braunfels. 830-627-2447. newbraunfelsrailroadmuseum.org

San Antonio Museum of Art

Free admission every Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon and every Tuesday from 4 to 9 p.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. 210-978-8100. www.samuseum.org

The Alamo

Free interactive living history event from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month. Includes live demonstrations, living history and history talks.

300 Alamo Plaza. 210-225-1391. www. thealamo.org.

The Witte Museum

Free admission from 3 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1900. www.wittemuseum.org

34

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

Experience all the mystery and fun of the beloved movie that captivated audiences around the world performed live by the San Antonio Symphony in sync to the blockbuster film “ET: The Extra-Terrestrial” projected on a huge HD screen. The performance will take place Sept.

11 & 12 at 8 p.m. at the Majestic Theatre. parents and grandparents comparing life when they were young to today.

For those visiting the ITC’s living history exhibit, the “Back 40,” museum guides will offer tours of the five period buildings, an overview on gardening, and a fun “Pack Your Family Trunk” activity.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Institute of Texan Cultures, 801 E. Cesar Chavez Blvd. 210458-2300. www.texancultures.com Sunday Jazz at the Witte: Take the family and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with “The Richard Oppenheim Band” in the Witte’s Will Smith amphitheater; blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged. Included with museum general admission. 3 to 6 p.m. Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. 210-357-1910. www. wittemuseum.org 72nd Annual Alzafar Shrine Circus: see Sept. 10 Plant Sale: see Sept. 12 SABOT Plant Sale: see Sept. 12 Fiestas Patrias: see Sept. 12

$29.50–$69.50. 7:30 p.m. The Tobin Center, H-E-B Performance Hall, 100 Auditorium Circle. 210-223-8624. www. tobincenter.org Little Sprout Mondays: Program for ages 3-4 includes storytelling, kids’ crafts and hands-on explorations at the child’s pace. Early registration encouraged. $7 fee includes one adult and one child. A parent or guardian must stay with the child. 10 to 11:30 a.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-2073278. www.sabot.org/education/ childrens-education/little-sprouts

15 Tuesday

Mother Nature’s Storytime- Deserts: Preschoolers and their caregivers can attend and learn what lives in the desert when we read “Desert Song” and be creative as they make popsicle stick lizards. $5 per family. 10 to 11 a.m.

Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830-249-4616. www. cibolo.org

Boerne Market Days: see Sept. 12

16 Wednesday 14 Monday

Ballet Folklórico De México: The cast of the most relevant dance creators of the last century includes the name of Amalia Hernandez. Inspired by the essence of Mexican folklore, Hernandez recreated those dances using different techniques from modern and classical dance; she then brought her creations to the stage and transformed them into a show with amazing results.

SAMA Playdates: see Sept. 2 Astronomy in the Park: see Sept. 2 Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see Sept. 2

18 Friday

BRAVO! MI Cultura!: In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department presents BRAVO! MI FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

CULTURA! an evening of dance selections celebrating the Hispanic Heritage in San Antonio featuring the budding local talents of young dancers from the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department’s Dance Programs. This performance will include dance numbers with influences from Spanish Flamenco and Mexican Folklorico. Free/donations welcome. 8 to 10 p.m. Arneson River Theater in La Villita. 418 Villita St. 210-207-3132. www.sanantonio.gov/ ParksAndRec Movie Night at the Park - “Echo to Earth”: Local vendors serve food and drinks, and children can enjoy time on the moon bounce and at the on-site playground prior to the screening of “Big Hero 6”. The event begins at approximately 6 p.m., and the Helotes Area Community Band performs for approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the movie. Please remember to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and personal food and beverages may also be brought into the Complex. Free and open to the public. City of Helotes Municipal Complex, to the rear of City Hall, 12951 Bandera Rd., Helotes. 210695-8877. www.helotes-tx.gov/events/ movie-night-at-the-park/

outdoor screening of “Spy Kids” will be shown in the park. Bring chairs and blankets. Free. Movie starts at sunset.

Raymond Rimkus Park, 6440 Evers Rd., Leon Valley. 210-684-1391. www.slabcinema.com/screenings/leon-valley Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see Sept. 4

19 Saturday

Magic at Magik: see Lead pg 25 NFL Punt, Pass and Kick competition: Youth, ages 6 to 15, are invited to participate in this event that allows youth to experience the fun of learning football fundamentals in an engaging and supportive non-contact environment. Registration is at 9 a.m. and the competition begins at 10 a.m. Wheatley Heights Sports Complex, 200 Noblewood Dr. 210-207-3114. www.sanantonio.gov/ Parksandrec/calendar.aspx Mariachi Concert: This event features middle and high school mariachi groups from San Antonio and surrounding Texas cities. Groups are awarded a stipend to go towards their respective mariachi programs and to encourage cultural education through music and the arts.

The evening will feature special dance performances by the Guadalupe Dance Company. Pre-shows to begin at 3:00

Leon Valley Slab Cinema: An evening,

p.m. Arneson River Theatre at La Villita.

418 Villita St. 210- 207-5951. www. events.getcreativesanantonio.com/event/ detail/441932215/Mariachi_Concert Saving our Butterflies: Drake White, Alamo Area Texas Master Naturalist, shares her knowledge and passion for butterflies. Learn about the importance of providing native host and nectar plants for our endangered butterflies and why it is so important that we save them and other pollinators. Free; donations accepted. 9 to 11 a.m. Phil Hardberger Park-PHP West, 8400 NW Military Hwy, Urban Ecology Center Classroom. 210-207-3280. www.philhardbergerpark.org Jazz’SAlive Children›s Symposium: This event will introduce children to Four Areas of Music Study: Percussion (Congas/Timabales/Shakers), Vocals (Your Voice - Your Instrument), High Brass (Trumpet/Flugel Horn), and Woodwinds (Saxophone/Flute/Clarinet). Free to children of all ages. Free Jazz’SAlive t-shirt to all participants while supplies last.

Parents must accompany their children.

Registration begins at 9:30 A.M. with the seminar from 10:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. Travis Park, 301 E Travis St. 210212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org/ jazzsalive.html

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35

Bird Walk: Look for birds in their native habitats. An experienced guide leads this walk every third Saturday of the month.

Featured birds include hummingbird, Long-billed Thrashers, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Green Heron and the Common Moorhen. Take binoculars. For ages 10 and older. Participants should meet at the Carriage House. Walk is free with garden admission. 9 a.m. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 210-207-3255. www.sabot.org

20 Sunday

Magic at Magik: see Lead pg 25

21 Monday

Helotes Ballet Folklorico Classes: see Sept. 7

22 Tuesday

Little Explorers: see Sept. 1

23 Wednesday

SAMA Playdates: see Sept. 2 Astronomy in the Park: see Sept. 2 Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see Sept. 2

25 Friday

Bravo! Latino!: In celebration of Fiestas Patrias, the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department presents BRAVO! LATINO!, an evening of music selections

In celebration of Fiesta Patrias, SA Parks & Rec hosts Bravo! Latino! to showcase local teen talent performing songs and compositions from Spanish and African indigenous sources. The show takes place on Friday, Sept. 25 from 8 to 10 p.m. at Arneson River Theatre in LaVillita.

36

Our Kids Magazine | September 2015

presenting local teen talent from the Take Note Band as well as guest artists and music students. The performance will include songs and compositions of Latin Jazz and Rock with influences from Spanish and African indigenous sources. $10 suggested donation. 8 to 10 p.m.

Arneson River Theater in La Villita, 418 Villita St. 210-207-3132. www.sanantonio.gov/ParksAndRec Miss Anastasia’s Twiglet Storytime: see Sept. 4

26 Saturday

Magic at Magik: see Lead pg 25 Outdoor Movie at Mission Marquee Plaza: The community is invited to experience the magic and nostalgia of one of San Antonio’s historic gems as the Mission Marquee Plaza will be the setting for an outdoor screening of “Guardians of the Galaxy”. Food trucks and concessionaires will be on hand and attendees are also welcome to bring their own snacks, lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Free. 8:15 to 10:15 p.m.

Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. 210-207-6968. www.facebook.com/ MissionMarqueePlaza Nature Walk: Grasses of Hardberger Park: The walk is led by Floyd Waller of the Native Plant Society. Walkers have the chance to see more grass and more fully-developed grasses than is possible earlier in the year. They can also see the progress in the savanna restoration. Free; donations accepted. 8 to 10 a.m. Phil Hardberger Park-PHP West, 8400 NW Military Hwy, Urban Ecology Center Classroom. 210-207-3280. www. philhardbergerpark.org Sensory-Friendly Films: Partnering with the Autism Society, AMC Theaters brings Sensory- Friendly Films to families affected by autism in the San Antonio area. The program provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment. The auditoriums dedicated to the program have their lights up, the sound turned down and audience members are invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing. Today’s feature is “Hotel Transylvania”. Dates and films are subject to change so be sure to verify in advance. $4 per person. 10 a.m. AMC Rivercenter 9. 849 E. Commerce St. www. autism-society.org/get-involved/events/ sensory-friendly-films Junior Gardener’s Club-Butterflies: Butterflies flutter by! Look at and learn all about the flying beauties and how they are helpful to the garden. Open to all ages. Free. 10 to 11 a.m. Herff Farm, 33 Herff Rd., Boerne. 830-249-4616.

Looking Ahead to October Don’t miss San Antonio’s annual Luminaria events on October 23rd and 24th this year. The events are free and held in several downtown San Antonio locations. Also get ready for Sea World’s “HowlO-Scream” running October 3 www.cibolo.org Moondance Concert- One Minute To Midnight: Listen to the eclectic mix of jazz, soul and contemporary rock - from Cole Porter to Motown soul and from Big Band swing to Sting - fronted by Boerne residents Jill Mason and rockin’ physician Mark Mason. at the familyfriendliest concert venue in the Texas Hill Country. Enjoy the Moondance concert under the oaks and evening stars at Cibolo Nature Center. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, kids, grandparents, picnic fare and friendly dogs on leashes for an evening full of live music, dancing and fun at the CNC. Don’t forget your dancin’ shoes, too! And if you don’t want to bring that picnic basket, a food truck will be on site for the evening. $10 for adults/$5 for seniors/Kids under 12 free.

Gates open at 7 p.m. and music is from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Cibolo Nature Center & Farm, 140 City Park Road, Boerne. 830249-4616. www.cibolo.org

27 Sunday

Family Art Play – Playful Patterns: The McNay offers a program for families to enjoy artist Stephen Westfall’s new installation in the McNay’s lobby and paint their own geometric pattern!

Be bold with patterned stencils or go wild with an original design. Free with museum admission. McNay members reserve space by calling 210.805.1768 by noon the Friday before the activity.

Nonmembers, pick up remaining passes the day of the activity. Sessions at 1 and 3 p.m. McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. 210-805-1768. www.mcnayart.org

29 Tuesday

Little Explorers: see Sept. 1

30 Wednesday

SAMA Playdates: see Sept. 2 Astronomy in the Park: see Sept. 2 Weed Wednesdays – Volunteer at PHP: see Sept. 2 FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

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37

Your Kids In Our Kids (Left to right starting from the top left)

Top Row: Scarlett | Emeritt | Alexis | Kavoncio Middle: Gigi | Lincoln | Brent Bottom Row: Anarah | Katelyn | Unnayan

October Theme is Halloween Visit OurKidsMagazine.com and Submit Your Kid Photos The deadline to submit photos is September 16, 2015. By uploading photos to Your Kids in Our Kids, you give us permission to publish your photos in Our Kids Magazine and online on our website.

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