105 THINGS TO DO IN APRIL

THE MAGAZINE PARENTS LIVE BY IN DENTON COUNTY april 2017 HOW TO TEACH KINDNESS What is TO KIDS PANDAS? A look at the brain disorder born from a common infection

MEET OUR MOM NEXT DOOR EMILE STEWART the FOOD ISSUE Eat your way around North with family-friendly foodie tours

special *sponsored section: family vacation planning

pages / APRIL 2017

DEPARTMENTS

NOTED 5 Kindness Counts Raising an empathetic kid starts with you

THE CHART 6 Get the Goods Delivered Get groceries with the click of a button REAL MOMS 9 Mom Next Door / Emile Stewart An adventurous artist creates a family life in Denton 10 Healthy Glow Quick facials for busy moms 10 And All That Jazz Dance and dine New Orleans-style 10 Like a (Cake) Boss Learn how to decorate cakes like a pro 12 Routines / Michelle Roberts One day with a data analyst and single mom of three KID CULTURE 33 Off the Rails Ditch the car and take a field trip by DART 35 Agenda Places to go to see (and sometimes sample) how local fare is made, p. 18 Our five favorite things to do this month 36 EveryDay FEATURES ON THE COVER Calendar of events for every day in April SHE’S NOT THERE 5-year-old Tristan 14 A medical mystery that turns of Coppell a child’s life — and yours — Photography: upside down Nick Prendergast words Brooke Conley Grooming: Shane Monden, FOOD TRIPPIN’ Wallflower 18 10 local foodie family field trips Management COLUMNS words Beth McGee and Jessica Myers Styling: Meredith Mosshart 46 Confessions / Mommy Fails When bad things happen to good parents

PUBLISHER/ Managing Editor ART Account Executives PR/MARKETING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Carrie Steingruber Graphic Designer Samantha Barnhart, Nancy Audience Development Director Joylyn Niebes Assistant Editor Susan Horn Crosbie, Nancy McDaniel, Candace Emerson Kristen Niebes, Sandi Tijerina, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jessica Myers Editorial Designer Kerensa Vest ADMINISTRATION Lauren Niebes Research Editor Katie Garza Office Manager + Distribution Beth McGee Advertising Coordinator Robbie Scott EDITORIAL ADVERTISING Amy Klembara Executive Editor Calendar Editor Associate Publisher Wendy Manwarren Generes Elizabeth Smith Diana Whitworth Nelson

NorthTexasChild is published monthly by Lauren Publications, Inc. NorthTexasChild is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only NorthTexasChild authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. Additional or back copies of NorthTexasChild are available for $2 per copy at the offices of Lauren Publications, Inc. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NorthTexasChild is ©2017 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited. northtexaschild / april 2017 3

noted.

that this behavior is mean-spirited and unacceptable. And use it as a teaching moment. Ask kids what they think it might feel like to be in that person’s shoes. Reflective discussions like this help children appreciate different perspectives. Praise your child. Thank a child for altruistic kindness such as going out of their way to help someone; don’t reward everyday helpfulness like cleaning up after dinner, which is expected as a family contribution. Recognize weaknesses. “Sometimes kids appear unkind if they are shy, do not make eye contact, do not smile or are ner- vous and anxious about making an overture,” Istre says. “For some kids, social skills have to be taught just like any other subject.” Acknowledge mistakes. Kids are still learning, and developmen- tally, they may be self-centered. Encourage them to do their best they always see those behaviors to act kindly, but recognize when kindness modeled,” adds Barbara Shelton, those efforts fall short. Show them ACH chief development officer. the power of apology through your So lead by example. Take a own actions. “Admit when your counts meal to a family who behavior has been recently had a baby unkind, own your how to raise kids who aren’t jerks or make and pass NICE TRY mistakes, apolo- out boxes of supplies gize and try to do WORDS JAMIE LOBER Let these groups help kids (including tooth- master being kind. better,” explains brushes, deodorant Rabbi Elana Zelony Let the kids become part and restaurant gift of the Dear President of Congregation cards) to the home- Trump: Letters from Beth Torah in s parents, we’ve prob- (from a list of 50) as possible in one less. Model authentic Kids About Kindness Richardson. ably said, “Play nicely” week. Some acts were as simple as compassion by Facebook group to spread Give back to or “Be sweet to your complimenting five people; others treating friends, what they learn. the community. brother.” Undoubtedly, asked kids to come out of their acquaintances, Pastoral Counseling Volunteer together to A we want to raise kind, comfort zones and step up for colleagues, even the Center (PCC) offers help widen a child’s thoughtful, compassionate kids, someone in need. The motive? To grocery store clerk five-week group sessions worldview, teach where kids learn and right? But can kindness be taught? create happier, healthier environ- and server, with practice listening and them gratitude and Jessica Ferguson thinks so. She ments, which aren’t actually taught, genuine respect. positive social interactions. build an awareness and her 9-year-old son Cooper experts say, but learned. Use kind words. , 214/526-4525; and sensitivity to recently made lavender-infused And apparently, we parents And help kids navi- pccdallas.org others’ struggles. soaps together then hand-delivered need to step up our game. A recent gate the conflicting The Social Learning That’s exactly them to the residents at a nearby study found that 80 percent of kids messages they may Connection uses hands- what Ferguson is assisted living care center. “I want say Mom and Dad taught them that encounter, suggests on activities to help kids trying to do. “I want to teach Cooper to have a heart personal happiness and achieve- Dr. Susan Istre, in kindergarten and older consider the points of Cooper to know for others,” says the Dallas mom. ments were more important than director and owner of view, emotions and beliefs how good it feels “We attend church every Sunday, being kind to others — yikes! the Center for Social of others. Fort Worth, to give selflessly to but there’s nothing as powerful as Kindness should be the univer- Success in Dallas. 817/845-8101; social- others,” she says. practicing what you preach.” sal language we help our children It is important learningconnection.com And he did. He got Earlier this year, Good Morning develop from birth, says Melissa to teach tolerance that warm-and- America put kids across the country Opheim, chief operating officer at of others’ views, fuzzy sensation to the test with the Great Kindness ACH Child and Family Services in beliefs and feelings. Many TVshows when his homemade soaps were Challenge, encouraging schools Fort Worth. (even cartoons) use humor to met with smiles. “This life is about and youth groups nationwide to “Kids innately want to be kind make fun of people’s differences. the legacy of love and kindness we

©ISTOCK.COM/FATCAMERA perform as many acts of kindness to others, but I do not know that As you watch as a family, point out leave behind,” his mom says.

northtexaschild / april 2017 5 the chart get the goods delivered has seen a lot of local grocery stores and services make the timely chore of food shopping a lot easier on moms. By adding grocery delivery, these stores eliminated unpleasant scenarios — like arguing with your toddler because she can’t sit in the blue car cart at Tom Thumb (it’s being used by another shopper) or hitting Kroger after the kiddos are in bed, which is where you’d like to be too. There are fees associated with some of the services, but the time, sanity and gas you’ll save are worth it.

WORDS JESSICA MYERS

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GOOGLE Order pantry staples from stores such Get the laundry detergent Moms who prefer $95 annual Sign up for a free EXPRESS as Costco and Whole Foods. Personal from Costco, a hostess gift to shop farmers membership. three-month trial online. shoppers walk the aisles, check out from Pier 1 Imports, diapers markets for fruits, Available in Argyle, then drop your order off at FedEx or from Buy Buy Baby ($15 veggies, milk Coppell, Corinth, Denton, UPS to make the same-day, overnight minimum per store) along and eggs. Flower Mound, Highland or two-day delivery. with the weekly groceries Village, Irving, Las Colinas, delivered for free. Lewisville and Valley Ranch, 855/869-4949; google.com/express

SHIPT Shipt delivers groceries in as little Order using the “Dinner Moms who aren’t $99 annual Sign up for a free trial as an hour from the nearby Central Tonight” function to get creatures of habit membership; online. Available in Coppell, Market or Kroger. Use the “special ingredients and recipes and like to try $7 delivery fee Flower Mound, Highland request” feature to make sure you get for easy-to-make pastas new things. for orders less Village, Irving, Las Colinas, perfectly ripe avocados or yogurt that and casseroles. than $35. Lewisville and Valley won’t expire in a week. Ranch, 205/502-2500; shipt.com TOM Virtually shop aisle by aisle, get in- Receive nearly weekly Moms who shop $12.95 delivery Sign up online for free THUMB store and online rewards, and reserve free shipping promotions, once a week. fee on orders delivery on your first order. one-, two- or four-hour delivery scan barcodes with your $49–$150; Available in Coppell, windows. Tom Thumb delivers beer phone for easy shopping $9.95 delivery Flower Mound, Highland and wine too. and make special requests fee on orders Village, Irving, Las Colinas, such as “pick only green over $150. Lewisville and Valley bananas.” Ranch, 877/505-4040; shop.tomthumb.com PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHIPT; ©ISTOCK.COM/ASISEEIT; JANINE LAMONTAGNE JANINE ©ISTOCK.COM/ASISEEIT; SHIPT; OF COURTESY PHOTOS

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CREATIVE EMILE STEWART AND moms. HUSBAND BOUIE ARE RAISING THEIR BOYS, ANDE, 3 1/2, AND OLIVER, 18 MONTHS, IN THE COUNTRY — AND EMBRACING EVERY MINUTE. dventure My favorite alone time has always activity is taking yoga at been my Inspire Yoga. “A thing,” WHERE DO YOU says Emile Stewart, GO FOR DATE NIGHT? who has done and seen Our ideal date is prob- a lot in her 31 years. ably hiking one of the It may have started trails that loop around somewhere in her the lake at Wiggly Field teen years. After high Dog Park in Denton. school, she planned to The sunsets there are live on the beach, but absolutely gorgeous. her parents insisted on But we also enjoy the college first. So after year-round twinkling getting a bachelor’s lights in the Denton degree in painting from Square. You can borrow Texas Tech, she moved a blanket from one of to the Bahamas, lived MOM NEXT DOOR / the businesses, bring a on a sailboat and in- picnic and eat on the terned with a hurricane courthouse lawn. relief organization. WHAT ARE SOME There, she met her FAVORITE ACTIVITIES husband Bouie. They Emile Stewart YOU DO WITH THE married in June 2010 KIDS? Playing blue- and moved to Savan- grass on the Square on nah, Georgia, where artist and teacher Saturday mornings. We Stewart worked at Sa- INTERVIEW BETH MCGEE enjoy the live music, vannah College of Art and Ande brings his toy and Design (SCAD) guitar to join in. and got the bug to WHAT HAS BEEN teach. She took classes online and earned her Yes, her life is an adventure, one she says THE MOST SURPRISING THING ABOUT master’s degree in art education then taught she’s still trying to navigate. (She and Bouie, MOTHERHOOD? Seeing things through the life high school art in Northwest ISD, which en- now the director at Go Camp, a mobile camp of a child makes everything more magical. compasses parts of Tarrant, Denton and Wise for inner city kids, had Oliver 18 months ago.) THE HARDEST PART? I think my inability counties, for the next few years. HOW DO YOU BALANCE WILDFLOWER, to do it all. I’m overambitious but I’m learning But after the couple’s first son, Ande, was TEACHING AND MOTHERHOOD? It works that not everything on the to-do list gets done. born in August 2013, Stewart wanted to set her thanks to my amazing family, who live in Bridge- ANY PLANS TO TRAVEL WITH THE own schedule to spend more time with him. port [45 minutes west of Denton]. My husband BOYS? Well, Ande is “I started teaching calligraphy part time at my has a flexible schedule, so he watches the boys named for the Andes dining room table and selling handmade cards when I teach classes. My sister (who’s also my Mountains, so we and prints through my Wildflower Etsy shop, studio assistant) helps with the kids too. definitely want and then it sort of exploded,” she says. ARE YOUR BOYS ARTISTIC? Ande is to take him That might be an understatement. As word artistic and Oliver is athletic. My sister and there. We would traveled, Stewart quickly outgrew her makeshift I are artistic, and my brother is an athlete. also love to home studio and had to start renting spaces (He’s a safety for the Carolina Panthers.) sail across the around Denton, where she lives. When de- WHAT DO YOU AND BOUIE DO 2 world with our mand for her classes exceeded what she could TO STAY CONNECTED AS A COU- boys when they provide, she started selling DIY calligraphy PLE? It seems counterintuitive, get older. kits: The Calligraphy Class in a Box. She’s since but something about taking time AND THE NEXT added hand lettering, and brush lettering is separately helps us connect ADVENTURE? My coming later this month. better when we’re together. 1 dream is to have a work- shop for kids and adults to 1 / On nice nights, you might find this family of four picnicking on the lawn in front learn all sorts of art forms. of the Denton County Courthouse. 2 / Stewart teaches her sought-after calligraphy

PHOTO COURTESY OF WILDFLOWER ART STUDIO; ILLUSTRATION BY KATIE GARZA KATIE BY ILLUSTRATION ART STUDIO; WILDFLOWER OF COURTESY PHOTO and lettering classes at The DIME Store in Denton and Anthropologie in Southlake. northtexaschild / april 2017 9 real moms / 3 THINGS …

and all that jazz

On Friday, April 14, bring a lawn chair and claim your spot early at Whistlestop Plaza for the kickoff of this year’s City of Irving Concert Series. The theme? New Orleans jazz. While the six-man band N’Awlins Gumbo Kings takes the stage, feast on a bowl of gumbo, jambalaya or crawfish from Nola Cajun Catering and Jack’s Chowhound food truck, who will be serving New Orleans-style fare all season long. Then on April 28, the Kickin’ Brass Band revs HEALTHY GLOW up their “second line” act — the New Orleans tradition If your skin is pleading for attention but treatment area is designed for chatting, so of bringing up the rear of a ASK FOR your to-do list beckons, schedule a quick bring along your mom pals or make a new parade with louder, brassier THE LEMON- pampering at Mod Facial Bar, where facials friend while getting a Modfacial Essential — BRASION and often improvised music. take as little as half an hour. Unlike the customized mask, exfoliation, shiatsu-style SCRUB, After you and your dancing WHICH traditional spa experience with borrowed massage and hot lavender towels rolled into REMOVES robes and isolated rooms, Mod invites you to a 30-minute treatment. For an extra-healthy partner work up a sweat from DEAD kick back in a white leather chair in your work glow, try out the cherry enzyme peel, one of all that boogying and spicy SKIN AND LEAVES YOU wear while sipping complimentary wine or seven enhancement offerings, to finish off soul food, cool down with GLOWING. tea (you can also BYOB). The open-concept your facial. —Beth McGee a treat from Steel City Pops. Concerts run 7–8:45pm (rain Mod Facial Bar, facials from $49; enhancements, $10 // 3634 Long Prairie Road, Flower Mound // 972/876-9527 // modfacialbar.com or shine) at the outdoor plaza or inside the Heritage Senior Center on Jefferson Street. —Jessica Myers Decorating City of Irving Concert Series, free Classes at All For Whistlestop Plaza, Your Cakes, from $35 123 W. Irving Blvd., Irving 2154 S. State Highway 121, 972/721-2501; cityofirving.org Suite 400, Lewisville LIKE A 972/315-2676; all-for-your-cakes.com (CAKE) BOSS For ooh’s and ah’s at your kiddo’s next birthday party, sharpen your cake decorating skills at All For Your Cakes. The deco- rating supply shop limits their evening and Saturday morning classes to five decorators (so newbies get the attention they need). Pick from a menu of single-session and two-part classes, each 2–3 hours — discover the ideal cake-to-frosting ratio while rolling cake balls, learn to pipe perfect buttercream flowers, or cover cakes in fondant and paint elaborate designs with gum paste. Before you leave with your sweet new skills, shop for decorating tip sets, edible glitter and other goods

to help you practice at home. Visit the website for this month’s class calendar, and call to reserve your spot. —B.M. ©ISTOCK.COM/PEOPLEIMAGES/NADYDY IRVING STAFF; LILLEY; DUSTIN OF COURTESY PHOTOS 10 april 2017 / northtexaschild 18-HOLE JAY MORRISH GOLF COURSE Dr. Michelle D. Martz D.C., D.A.C.B.N., C.C.N., C.T.N. COME SEE THE UNIQUE LIFESTYLE OF LANTANA

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northtexaschild / april 2017 11 real moms / ROUTINES

sit in the back seat. He’s a sweetheart, and it finally works out. Emily likes to get to school early so she can mingle. RJ and Drew have workouts for athletics. The car ride is quiet and full of wishes to be back in bed. 7:20AM I’ve dropped off the kids and now I am headed to work. I have a total dislike of the freeway; however, I prefer slow traffic on the freeway … I see it as less likely to cause a real serious wreck. Not completely logical, but, hey — it gets me by. 7:50AM I arrive at work and take the elevator to the ninth floor, then take four flights of stairs to my cubicle (I’d pass out if I took all 12 flights). My heart is pounding and my legs are burning. I start off with warm tea, not coffee (I know — it’s weird) while I gaze outside my window to the beautiful view of Globe Life Park. Far away, past all the incredible Six Flags rides, the magnificent Dallas skyline can be seen in all its glory. I smile then sign in and begin the daily routine. 8AM I’m a busy little bee with meetings and system reviews, keeping up with a steady stream of work and listening to my headphones. During the morning, I snack on assorted fruits with lots of water … and maybe a Coke. 1PM Time to eat my weight in food. Prepared meals are not my favorite (I’d prefer to eat fast food) but I’m trying to stay on my game. 1:30PM Thirty minutes sure flies by when you are taking time for yourself. Back to work. I finish up today’s tasks and begin to plan my schedule for tomorrow. 4:30PM I clock out and take my 12 flights of stairs down, which isn’t as bad as it sounds. A THURSDAY IN THE LIFE OF 5PM I arrive at Emily’s YMCA after-school program. We drive down the block and wait for RJ and Drew to finish baseball practice. Emily and I use this time to walk the track field and discuss her day. She practices her vocal michelle roberts warmups and enlightens me with vibrant tales of recess and how nice her best friend is. :30AM Good, groggy morning. 5:45PM We’re headed home. The boys are still My final alarm blares for my day to full of energy. They talk about how practice Michelle Roberts begin. (The three previous alarms was hard but beneficial, then I hear fragments lives in Irving and were just miserable warnings.) It’s of the school day, mainly about how boring works as a data time to complain to myself about classes are and how pretty the girls are. My analyst for MultiPlan, 5how tired I am. heart melts at the thought that my little boys a health care 6AM The kiddos are waking up for breakfast. are actually young men now. For some reason, none of us are real big on 6PM Home now, and with three different company. The single breakfast so we struggle through it. RJ and requests for dinner. I stare blankly around the mom and her three Drew realize they have not properly prepared kitchen, hoping I can overcome the fear of giv- kids — Roger (“RJ”), for the day. Clothes and shoes are scattered ing up and getting takeout. I do — no takeout 16; Andrew (“Drew”), about. My boys are sneakerheads — with all tonight! Dinner is a hit, and we settle down. 15; and Emily, 7 — the shoes around, it’s like living with centi- 6:45PM My kiddos put away their phones and love baseball, fashion pedes. My 7-year-old loves adding accessories iPad and we laugh and vent and comfort each and traveling. to her school uniform, so I watch in fascina- other. We make this hour feel like a lifetime’s tion. She has such great fashion sense. worth of conversations. My genius boys love 6:55AM Loading up the car is somewhat of discussing religion and physics. RJ is preparing a challenge. Emily brings along her baby doll to be a theological physicist; Drew is preparing entourage, while Drew tries to find a place to to be a chaplain in the Army. Emily loves de-

Diaries are penned by moms (and dads) in the North Texas area. The authors volunteer to share a day of their choosing and are not paid or endorsed by NorthTexasChild. Send your diary to

[email protected]. All submissions are subject to editing and may be cut for space. ROBERTS MICHELLE OF COURTESY PHOTO 12 april 2017 / northtexaschild We Care About Your Family! printthe fine

WHAT SHE’S READING Double Tap by Steve Martini YEARLY DESTINATION The beach — any beach, just as long as we go to the beach FAVORITE MOVIE Gone With the Wind FAVORITE DATE Susan Heller, MD Karen Holland, MD Joan Kay, MD NIGHT SPOT My boys’ baseball game or PEDIATRICS PEDIATRICS PEDIATRICS a Rangers game BEVERAGE OF CHOICE Coca-Cola BEAUTY PRODUCT SHE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Maybelline Great Lash mascara WORKOUT SHE MANAG- ES TO SQUEEZE IN Cardio BY HER BED ChapStick, cellphone WHAT SHE DOES WHEN LIFE GETS STRESSFUL Listen to music DREAM VACATION Scotland MOTHERHOOD IN FIVE WORDS Funny, loving, crazy, spectacular, comforting Darlene Kurian, MD Natalya Shannon, MD Tammi M. Williams, MD PEDIATRICS PEDIATRICS PEDIATRICS HOBBIES Sketching designs

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signing and plans to be a veterinarian, or maybe a pediatrician — she’s undecided at the moment but practices on her toys. 7:45PM My boys are exhausted, but they still help me with Emily as she studies her spelling words and does her other school assignments. Then we listen to music while Emily plays in her kitchen. The boys do their very best to rope me into listen- ing to their kind of music — I guess I am not as cool as I used to be. It is a sweet, peaceful night. 8:30PM Emily heads to take a shower and then gets into bed. She proudly reads her book from school. RJ, Drew and I pray with Emily and then head off to start our own bedtime rituals. 9PM Time for me to clean up, review emails and messages and plan for tomorrow. The house is quiet and cozy and I finally get a chance to shower. My second wind has kicked in, which means that I am in big trouble. 12AM Being a night owl is a blessing and a curse. I’ve had a few hours of alone time to listen to my music and watch TV, so of course I struggle to lie down and fall asleep. I set my dreaded alarms and slip slowly — very, very

ILLUSTRATION BY KATIE GALASSO KATIE BY ILLUSTRATION slowly — into sleep. northtexaschild / april 2017 13

She’s Not There A medical mystery that turns a child’s life — and yours — upside down WORDS BROOKE CONLEY

ABIGAIL SMITH (WHOSE NAME HAS BEEN CHANGED), 46, REMEMBERS THAT LAST TIME SHE SAW HER CHILD. She dropped her then 9-year-old daughter, Emma, off at school one sunny morning in March 2016 and told her to have a good day. But Smith was called mid-morning to come get Emma, who had vomited and complained that she wasn’t feeling well; her mom thought it was a virus. “When I got her home, I thought someone had kidnapped my child and left a clone in her place,” recalls the Fort Worth mom. Emma had sudden and severe diet restrictions and abrupt obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Emma only ate Cara Cara navel oranges with pink flesh, which had to be sliced into wedges, and Cheerios. “My child who used to eat hamburger Happy Meals with dirty hands also became consumed with the idea of contamination,” Smith says. “Everyone and everything was contaminated — her dad, her sister, her school. She would cry that she didn’t want to go to school and was glued to my side.” Looking back now, Smith says that every time her daughter contracted what seemed like a mild illness, with congestion, a sore throat and low-grade fever, her behavior changed, worsened. “After her first [viral] infection at the age of 4, she started using more toilet paper and began disliking tags and seams on her clothes,” Smith remembers. “Emma became picky with food and all of a sudden wouldn’t eat anything that was brown or tan because she believed it would make her sick. I thought she was just being quirky, and we adapted to her new behaviors. I only put it together years later that

©ISTOCK.COM/IOSEPH her symptoms worsened anytime [she got sick].”

northtexaschild / april 2017 15 After her virus at 9, Emma and other common viruses and Emma, now 10, never tested developed total agoraphobia — created a new diagnosis called positive for strep (she’s appar- fear that the outside world is PANS (pediatric acute-onset neu- ently an atypical strep test unclean or unsafe — and was inca- ropsychiatric syndrome). responder). Instead her change in pacitated by germs. She stopped PANDAS and PANS can behavior was given a dual diagno- touching family members and mimic other disorders — OCD, sis of sensory processing disorder objects in her home. She required Tourette syndrome, attention (SPD) and OCD. that the bathtub be scrubbed deficit hyperactivity disorder “A lot of times, in the conven- before she got into it and eventu- (ADHD), even schizophrenia tional practice of medicine, we just ally forbade her mother from even — and is therefore often misdi- quickly associate these factors with handling soap bottles. agnosed. But the sudden, dra- a behavioral problem,” Naidoo “Her pediatrician said it was all matic onset of symptoms makes explains. “Patients are often told anxiety related and PANDAS and PANS stand out, that they need to see a therapist or that she needed a says Dr. Randy Naidoo, CEO of a psychiatrist, but a full infectious psychiatrist,” Smith Shine Pediatrics in Richardson. work-up needs to be done when Poems says. “The first thing “Anytime we come into contact a patient presents with these find- on PANDAS the psychiatrist said with infection, antibodies are cre- ings before he is placed on one or when I told him ated to help us defend against bac- more psychotropic medications.” her history was, teria and viruses,” Naidoo explains. Emma Smith, who was diagnosed ‘Have you heard of “In some patients, for reasons not ALL IN THEIR HEADS with PANDAS at 9 after struggling PANDAS?’” quite understood, certain anti- Heather Banks, 31, of Highland for five years with the disorder, bodies interact with other tissue Village went through years of mis- often expresses her heartbreaking THE PANDAS or organs in the body. In some diagnoses with her son Brayden, illness through poetry and notes. PUZZLE instances, they can affect areas of now 8. “Brayden was always such In rare cases, some the brain and cause issues such a sweet child, but around the PANS doctors diagnosis as tics, involuntary or repetitive age of 5, he began having mood Horrible, Terrible Nobody Wants It children who have movement, high levels of anxiety, swings,” Banks explains. “We The Worst Thing Ever a dramatic, almost or obsessive-compulsive thoughts.” started dealing with tantrums, dis- PANDAS overnight onset of It’s hard for members of the respect and impulsivity issues.” neuropsychiatric medical community to pinpoint Brayden had had strep throat symptoms, including exactly why some children get several weeks before the personal- Dear Mom, OCD, eating chal- PANDAS and PANS and others ity shift, but because his parents I’m having another bad lenges, moodiness, do not. It seems that some kids had never heard of PANDAS or ancziety [sic] day. irritability, anxiety, are genetically vulnerable; for PANS, they didn’t connect the Feels exactly like yesterday. tics (involuntary others, it’s the perfect storm behavior issues with the infection. If you were here, I would hug you movements), sensory of circumstances. But things got worse for and never let you leave. sensitivities and dete- Either way, it’s still pretty Brayden. Teachers lost control of I want so badly to call you. rioration in hand- rare. While there’s never been him in the classroom, and he got writing skills, with a large population study done, eye tics and refused certain tex- PANDAS (pediatric it’s important to note that of all tures when it came to food, even autoimmune neuro- the children infected with strep, vomited at the sight of avocadoes psychiatric disorder associated with the flu or other common viruses or cooked beans. streptococcal infections), which the (which includes most kids), only a One year later, Brayden was doctors believe was triggered by small fraction develop PANDAS- formally diagnosed with ADHD, strep throat. or PANS-like symptoms. and his mom says she couldn’t PANDAS was first identified “For a long time, I was under help but feel relieved. and labeled in the mid-1990s the impression that children on the “Deep down I knew that it was by investigators at the National autism spectrum were more likely something else and not ADHD,” Institute of Mental Health to be diagnosed [with PANDAS she admits. “But there was defi- (NIMH). Basically, a bacterial or PANS],” says Dr. Seshagiri A. nitely a part of me that thought, infection such as strep prompts Rao, an allergist and immunologist ‘OK. At least we have a diagno- the immune system to produce in Plano, considered the leading sis.’” A diagnosis — any diagnosis antibodies. But instead of attack- PANDAS specialist in Texas, and — felt more manageable for the ing the infection, they go after the the doctor who finally diagnosed sudden unexplained behaviors. basal ganglia, the part of the brain Emma. “But in the past 7–8 years, Other parents blame themselves. that controls emotions, behaviors that has completely changed. “Emma became very clingy and and physical movements. Now, 80 percent of my PANDAS had a lot of separation anxiety,” In 2010, the National Institutes patients are considered neurotypi- Smith says. “I guess I just started of Health (NIH) broadened the cal. A lot of PANDAS and PANS lying to myself. I thought, ‘Maybe classification to include triggers symptoms simply mimic certain it’s me. Maybe I’m not good at like Lyme disease, mono, the flu neurological disorders.” handling her.’ Something in the

16 april 2017 / northtexaschild I thought back of my head kept saying, ‘This someone had thought to boost the immune isn’t right,’ but I just accepted her system by delivering concentrated doctor’s opinion that she was more kidnapped my amounts of antibodies directly difficult than the average child.” into the veins, and costing about Marcey Mettica, a licensed $1,000 for every 10 pounds (based professional counselor supervisor child and left on the child’s weight) — none of and registered play therapist in which may be covered by insurance. Prosper, says feelings of uncer- through a clone in her wide Rao says that post-treatment, tainty and self-blame are very physi- spec- most children resume a normal typical of parents whose children cian refer- trum of life with a total cessation of have yet to receive a proper diag- ral, but from place. indicators, symptoms. However, some chil- nosis of PANDAS or PANS. Facebook or and they don’t dren may relapse if they contract “When parents go to the pedi- other networking always present at another illness. For those parents, atrician, the symptoms can sound groups.” the same time. the recurring nightmare happens outrageous,” she explains. As debilitating as PANDAS and again and again, often after their Which is why PANDAS and TREATING A MYSTERY PANS can be, both are treatable. child has been exposed to some- PANS meet a lot of skepticism from Early intervention is the key to Rao suggests starting with one with strep or other infections. members of the medical community. preventing deterioration, and your child’s pediatrician and Sometimes the symptoms grow One reason parents and doc- that timely detection is all about moving on to a specialist if need- worse with each flare-up, but they tors don’t connect strep or other understanding the combination ed from there. can usually be extinguished with potential infection triggers like of factors that can lead to an Naidoo also stresses that par- another heavy dose of antibiotics. mycoplasma (which causes walking onset, Rao explains. ents are their child’s best advocate. Brayden’s treatment included pneumonia) to a sudden change in “Often I’ll see children who “If you feel that this is something amoxicillin and a heavy vitamin a child’s behavior is because there’s start off with increased anxiety, your child may be dealing with, regimen. “We immediately saw often a lag, from 1–6 weeks. Also, OCD or tics,” Rao explains. “Tics find a doctor who is willing to pur- results,” Banks says. “It was like in many cases, like Emma’s, strep is can be very obvious — a neck sue this etiology,” he says. “Parents we uncovered my son in one never diagnosed. jerk, shoulder jerk or body con- may have to do some research to simple step.” In fact, some PANDAS cases tortion. This is a very acute symp- find a specialist who is willing to do He’s since made a full recov- are diagnosed in what doctors tom. Then, we have to go back a thorough evaluation.” ery. He continues to take a pre- call occult strep infections — and look at medical history.” Most physicians can accom- scription vitamin but receives no that is, children who can be Mettica agrees. “I treat a lot modate basic preliminary blood other treatment. Likewise, Emma carriers of strep but don’t ever of children for fears, compul- work, which can serve as a start- has mostly returned to herself show symptoms. sions or anxiety,” she states. ing point. after being properly diagnosed Without clear criteria to diag- “But with PANDAS and PANS, If PANDAS and PANS are last August. Within two months nose PANDAS and PANS and there are going to be other red caught early, a heavy dose of of her starting antibiotics and without a single, standardized flags such as a recent illness or antibiotics, antifungals or antivi- ibuprofen, her family saw dra- lab test for doctors to use, con- restricted food intake. I will ask rals (taken for a longer period of matic improvements. troversy continues to surround if a child has recently been sick time than the standard 10 days) “[Before the diagnosis and the very existence of PANDAS or if there are any other unusual can knock it out. More serious treatment, Emma] looked like and PANS. psychiatric symptoms.” cases might require more invasive my kid, but my real child was “This is a real thing and Rao says in his practice, he and costly treatments such as a gone,” Smith remembers. “I parents should not have to go has seen patients where the very tonsillectomy; plasmapheresis, a got really sad thinking this was through it alone,” Rao says. “So first illness induced PANDAS, $40,000 procedure in which the our life and that it was over. many families are often misguid- but many others who displayed child’s plasma is removed and PANDAS was devastating for ed by seeing physicians who have symptoms only after consecutive replaced with healthy donated our family, but after [starting] no experience with PANDAS. illnesses. He emphasizes that plasma; and intravenous immu- treatment, I’m finally getting my Most of my patients come not both PANDAS and PANS have a noglobulin (IVIG) therapy, little girl back.”

The PANDAS Network DFW PANDAS/PANS Parent Oklahoma/Texas PANDAS WHERE TO FIND A robust online resource to Support Group This is the other closed help parents learn more about This is one of two closed Facebook group, a place where identifying the symptoms of Facebook page groups that parents can talk to one other HELP PANDAS and PANS that’s also help parents navigate local confidentially about their chil- Many families suffer full of provider information and provider resources and provide dren diagnosed with PANDAS through symptoms of state-by-state support groups. support. Those interested in or PANS. To join, email This is a good starting point for joining or learning more can [email protected] PANDAS and PANS alone, concerned parents. contact Lauren Hassell at but you don’t have to. pandasnetwork.org [email protected]

northtexaschild / april 2017 17 10F local foodie family field D trips

TRIPPWORDS BETH MCGEE AND JESSICA MYERS N’

18 april 2017 / northtexaschild discount at the retail store. Call to a piping hot and delicious sample et your little ones live out their schedule a tour. before dinner. COST: $50 per person; minimum of 4 COST: Free Willy Wonka and the Chocolate people per group HOURS: Sunday–Thursday 11am– HOURS: Monday–Thursday 9am–5pm 10pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–11pm Factory fantasies by visiting a WHERE: 1316 Industrial Road, Mount WHERE: 5250 Highway 121, Col- Pleasant, 903/575-5505; leyville, 817/318-7500; laharanch.com nearby store, farm or other foodie sweetshopusa.com workshop that lets them get a Full City Rooster Coffee Braum’s Family Farm, Tuttle, OK Roasting Studio, Dallas behind-the-scenes peek at how some of their Blue Bell isn’t offering tours of their Visit Full City Rooster Coffee Roasting L factory in Brenham anymore (#sadface), Studio on Saturday from 10am–2pm favorite edibles — ice cream, chocolate, cheese but 2 1/2 hours north of Denton, just to see the organic, bird-friendly, fair outside Oklahoma City, Braum’s Family trade-certified beans toasted in the and more — are made. From formal tours to im- Farm gives families a peek at ice cream- Loring roaster, a machine that reduces making entertainment and more. energy consumption and greenhouse promptu demonstrations, these fun culinary ex- During twice-daily guided tours (at 9 gas emissions significantly. The tour and 11am), kiddos ogle the vacuum-seal guide loads the raw greenish khaki- periences give kids the real flavor of the Dallas- process that makes milk sweeter and colored coffee beans into the machine, thicker, watch barrels churn the cream manipulates them using an instrument Fort Worth area and maybe a free sample, too. into one of the 120 flavors of ice cream called a trier, then dumps them when or frozen yogurt, plus see how Braum’s they reach their rich, brown color — all cones, cookies and muffins are made while talking visitors through the pro- too. Finish with a sample of vanilla ice cess and answering questions. Here, WORTH THE DRIVE Cheese, Waco cream or a chocolate-dipped ice cream Mom gets to sample the cup of joe Set aside some time on one of your bar. Call ahead; tours fill up quickly. while kids sip hot chocolate (though Veldhuizen Cheese, Dublin shopping trips to Magnolia Market at COST: Free they can try the coffee too). Just say cheese, please. Veldhui- the Silos in Waco to visit Brazos Valley HOURS: Monday–Friday 9 and 11am COST: $45 per group of four zen Family Farm in Dublin, about Cheese shop on a Monday, Wednesday WHERE: 491 County Road 2880, HOURS: Monday–Saturday 7am–4pm 2 1/2 hours southwest of Denton, or Friday between noon and 2pm. Tuttle, Oklahoma, 405/228-4604; WHERE: 1810 S. Akard St., Dallas, offers guided tours on Saturdays at That’s when the cheese-making magic braums.com 214/247-6394; fullcityrooster.com 10:30am, where kiddos (and adults) happens. Kids watch through a large witness the process of crafting the picture window (it’s over 8 feet wide) raw, unpasteurized artisan cheeses RIGHT AT HOME ON THE FARM as 10 different types of cheeses — like (the farm produces 15 varieties) and Gouda, white cheddar and Brie — are iCream Café, Frisco Circle N Family Dairy, make a trip to the aging cave. Look iCream Café uses liquid nitrogen to in- made. The cheesemakers inside the Gainesville forward to a sampling of fromage stantly freeze custom-made ice cream, shop gladly answer questions and offer Got milk? Teach kiddos where it comes and a meet and greet with baby frozen yogurt, sorbet, hot pudding, samples. After the demonstration, set from with a dairy tour at Circle N Family calves at the end of the tour. shakes and malts. Kids first choose the kids loose to explore the 510-acre farm, Dairy to learn what cows eat, how they COST: Adults, $6; kids 6–12, $4; kids 5 base liquid — regular, light, nonfat, which also boasts a mini market with are fed and the difference between raw and younger, free almond, coconut, soy or lactose-free other local edibles and a gift shop with and pasteurized milk. Kids can even play HOURS: Tuesday–Saturday 10am– milk. Next, the flavor combination is handmade crafts. farm hand and milk Holly, the resident 5pm, Sunday 1–5pm added (there are more than two dozen COST: Free fake life-size cow with udders; bottle-feed WHERE: 425 S. Private Road 1169, options). Finally, the concoction is in- HOURS: Monday–Saturday 10am–6pm baby calves; and take home a goody bag Dublin, 254/968-3098; jected with liquid nitrogen and mixed WHERE: 206 Halbert Lane, Waco, of coloring books and pencils. At the end veldhuizencheese.com with fresh fruit, peanut butter (which 254/829-0600; brazosvalleycheese.com of the tour, choose a sample of regular, stays creamy), candy and more — all chocolate or strawberry milk. Call ahead Dublin Bottling Works, Dublin while kiddos watch in amazement. to schedule a weekday tour. While in Dublin, visit Dublin Bottling Sweet Shop USA, COST: Prices from $3.99 COST: $7 per person Works, the oldest soda bottling facility Mount Plesant HOURS: Sunday–Thursday noon– HOURS: Daily 8am–5pm in Texas. Though the bottling line is Chocolatiers at Sweet Shop USA, the 9pm, Friday–Saturday noon–10pm WHERE: 2074 County Road 446, now out of commission, kiddos see the largest family-owned handmade WHERE: 9250 Dallas Parkway #150, Gainesville, 940/372-0343; circlendairy.com process from start to finish in still-life. chocolate manufacturer in the coun- Frisco, 214/618-2343; icreamicecream- Kids walk alongside the conveyor belt try, begin making chocolates by hand shopfriscotx.com Cartermere Farms, Celina to see bottles mounted to the racks at 5am. So there’s definitely plenty Call to schedule a tour, or show up at portraying every step — from washing to see during one of the 90-minute La Hacienda Ranch, Colleyville Cartermere Farms any Friday afternoon the glass bottles to filling them with private tours that start at 9am such as There’s almost always a wait at La between 3:30 and 5:30pm to let kiddos soda. After the 45-minute tour, join the bubbling vats of chocolate and cara- Hacienda Ranch, the popular Tex-Mex collect eggs, meet the lambs and chick- rush to Old Doc Soda Shop across the mel, confectioners hand-splashing restaurant. Before being seated or get- ens and harvest turnips and radishes. street for free samples. Tours run every truffles with icing and perhaps dip- ting your food, entertain the kids with Before leaving, let little ones explore 45 minutes daily (except Monday) from pers elbow deep in chocolate sauce. a visit to the tortilla station, which is the 300-acre, natural pesticide- and 10:15am–4:15pm. The 80,000- square-foot factory, a 2 enclosed for easy viewing of the fresh herbicide-free, organic, family-owned COST: Adults, $5; kids, $4 1/2-hour drive east of Denton, has been tortillas made throughout the day. Kids farm just outside of Celina. HOURS: Tuesday–Saturday 10am– in business for 40 years and makes stand mesmerized as the ball of dough COST: Free 5pm, Sunday 1–5pm sweets for Neiman Marcus, Central flattens, spins and cooks in the chute HOURS: Monday–Friday 8am–6pm WHERE: 221 S. Patrick St., Dublin, Market and Whole Foods. At the end system to become the base for their WHERE: 8436 County Road 134, 888/398-1024; of the tour, each guest receives lots cheese quesadilla later. Ask nicely, and Celina, 214/707-8029; dublinbottlingworks.com of samples ($50 worth) plus a 10% the tortilla makers may give the kiddos cartermerefarms.com

northtexaschild / april 2017 19 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Planning the Perfect Family Vacation Ready to get out of town? Whether you’re looking to jet away to a faraway destination or stay a little closer to home, family fun awaits you at these great escapes.

BY KAMBRY RUBY

Celebrity Cruises

If you thought modern, luxury vacations weren’t also for kids — think again. Celebrity Cruises goes all out to make the whole family’s vacation a memorable, upscale experience that will leave everyone completely restored and renewed. Celebrity’s signature, world-class accommodations, globally influenced dining (where even the most finicky eater is sure to find new favorites), and friendly staff set the stage for everyone’s vacations. Choose from a variety of family-focused, spacious accommodations, including interlocking/adjoining staterooms and suites, so there’s always room for the entire gang. Starting this year, embark on Celebrity’s first ever summer camp at sea — where young minds are inspired with history, culture, and activities designed to excite and engage. Because Celebrity Cruises understands the importance of family time, the staff is focused on creating opportunities for both parents and children to enjoy a vacation that will stay with them long after their trip has ended.

celebritycruises.com PHOTOS COURTSEY OF CELEBRITY CRUISES COURTSEY PHOTOS

20 april 2017 / northtexaschild SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Kemah Boardwalk and Pleasure Pier TEXAS

Getaway to adventure! Galveston Island Pleasure Pier, , and the Downtown Aquarium are incredible amusement locations around the area that provide the perfect setting for your next family vacation and guarantee big fun, big thrills, and memories to last a lifetime. Featuring waterfront dining and entertainment like no other, the Kemah Boardwalk and the Pleasure Pier are home to family-oriented rides, midway games, waterfront dining, and retail shopping. Soar over the Gulf of Mexico at Pleasure Pier, one of the few spots in the world that features 16 rides that go over the oceanfront. Or, become bulletproof on the thrill- ing Boardwalk Bullet rollercoaster at the Kemah Boardwalk. Families can play all day and then stay overnight at the Boardwalk Inn, a charming waterfront hotel in Kemah. Kids and adults will also enjoy the Downtown Aquarium, which boasts more than 500,000 gallons of underwater tanks filled with 200 species of fascinating sea creatures, sharks, and marine life. The aquarium offers life-like, educational exhibits kemahboardwalk.com designed to teach visitors about aquatic life in various envi- pleasurepier.com ronments around the world, including the Louisiana swamp, shipwrecks, rainforest, and the Gulf of Mexico. PHOTOS COURTSEY OF LANDRY’S INC. OF LANDRY’S COURTSEY PHOTOS

22 april 2017 / northtexaschild SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau ARKANSAS

Situated on the Arkansas River, Little Rock is home to a thriving and hospitable New South culture that offers big-time entertainment, world-class attractions, music festivals, and a booming artisanal dining scene. This charming Southern capital city is one of the state’s top vacation spots and among America’s most affordable cities — meaning families can come for fun and keep money in their pockets. Plan an educational journey to Central High School’s place in the civil rights movement, explore the Clinton Presidential Center, and imagine a world free of hunger and poverty at the Heifer Village. In downtown Little Rock, play at Riverfront Park and explore the Museum of Discovery, an innovative destination featured by Kevin Delaney on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” Or, head outdoors to enjoy the Arkansas River Trail that features more than 15 miles of scenic riverfront and one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the country. littlerock.com

Like our ride along the Arkansas River Trail, our OUTDOOR trip to Little Rock was ADVENTURES a delight. Touring its WITH A downtown by Segway, and its neighborhoods, barbecue joints and SOUTHERNSM breweries by bike. Riding ACCENT. the METRO Streetcar from our hotel to explore the shops, restaurants and clubs in the River Market. Being mesmerized by the city’s beautiful illuminated bridges at night. We had a wonderful time, and can’t wait to return to Little Rock.

Riverfront Park > To see more visit LittleRock.com PHOTO COURTSEY OF COURTESY OF LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU OF LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS OF COURTESY COURTSEY PHOTO

24 april 2017 / northtexaschild SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Chickasaw Cultural Center OKLAHOMA

Soak in the living culture, history, and tradition of the Chickasaw Nation at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Nestled on 184 acres of rolling hills, woodlands, and stream adjacent to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, this family-oriented destination is the largest cultural center in America devoted to a single tribe. This state-of-the-art facility includes an interactive exhibit hall, a large- format theater, traditional village, café, honor garden, and amphitheater. Live demonstrations, ancient artifacts, natural outdoor spaces, and the latest technology help tell visitors the story of the unconquered and unconquerable Chickasaw Nation—from the ancient past to the present day.

chickasawculturalcenter.com PHOTO COURTSEY OF THE CHICKASAW NATION OF THE CHICKASAW COURTSEY PHOTO northtexaschild / april 2017 25 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Your Summer Vacation

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort FLORIDA

The secret is out — the Florida Panhandle is quickly becoming one of the hottest, most ENJOY popular coastal destinations in the country. Plus, it’s easier than ever to visit paradise 25% OFF with direct flights from Dallas and Houston to THIS SUMMER! northwest Florida. CODE: SUMR17 The iconic Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is located in popular South Walton. This award-winning, sprawling resort is PLUS! ENJOY DIRECT situated on 2,400 acres and is universally FLIGHTS TO THE BEACH recognized as the finest resort on the Emerald Coast. Featuring deluxe accommodations, championship golf courses, tennis, marina, shopping, fitness center, and spa. Time spent # on Sandestin’s world-famous beaches and The 1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast! property is priceless. Families can enjoy Beach to Bay Accommodations • Year-Round Events complimentary entertainment all summer Four Championship Golf Courses • Endless Free Amenities long, from movie nights and concerts to Dozens of Shopping & Dining Options • Tennis • Water Sports weekly firework displays. Soak up the fun in the sun at Sandestin!

844.831.1470 Sandestin.com/dfwc sandestin.com/dfwc PHOTO COURTSEY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH COURTSEY PHOTO

26 april 2017 / northtexaschild SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

We’ve Got the Inside Track on Fun.

AIR-CONDITIONED FIRST CLASS COACHES

Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau TEXAS When it comes to things for families to do and see in Grapevine, the list is Texas-sized. From shop- ping, dining, and an urban wine trail to museums, sports, and outdoor adventures, Grapevine is located minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and offers a small-town feel and a conve- nient escape from the big city. Step aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, discover outdoor HOP ABOARD the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and ride between Grapevine’s Cotton Belt Depot and the Fort ® adventure on Lake Grapevine, tour LEGOLAND , or Worth Stockyards, or on the Stockyards explore the heart of Grapevine along the beautifully Ride.* Travel in authentic 1920s Victorian-era coaches. preserved historic Main Street. For tickets, schedules and train information visit www.GVRR.com or call 817.410.3185. grapevinetexasusa.com *Stockyards Trinity River Ride departs from Fort Worth Stockyards Station. PHOTO COURTSEY OF GRAPEVINE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU OF GRAPEVINE CONVENTION & VISITORS COURTSEY PHOTO

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2017

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We’ve got the camp for your little animal. DAY / SPORTS & OVERNIGHT CAMPS / CLASSES Summer Zoo Camps at the Fort Worth Zoo will keep your child engaged and having fun this summer with everything from keeper chats to animal encounters. Choose from a variety of dates and themes based on your child’s age and interests; there’s something for everyone!

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Camp Summit is a one-of-a-kind camp for children and adults with disabilities where the emphasis is on the campers’ abilities rather than their dis- abilities. Traditional camp activities are adapted to each individual and are provided in our barrier-free facilities and implemented by trained, caring staff. Our campers are grouped by age, providing the opportunity to make friends within peer groups while having fun and experiencing new adventures.

270 Private Rd. 3475 Camp Summit is located just north of DFW on Paradise, TX 76073 972-484-8900 460 beautiful acres of land. We are accredited [email protected] by the American Camp Association and licensed www.campsummittx.org as a Youth Camp in the State of Texas.

Summer Camp at LLELA Nature Preserve

This summer, mosey down a shady trail, paddle a kayak, CAMP GUIDE do the “chores” at a real log house, catch a tadpole, and have a wild summer adventure! Enroll your child in the entire week, or M/W/F only. Three one-week camps starting June 5 for children entering 2nd through 7th grades. Each camp day runs from 8:30am–2:30pm. An extended day option is available from 2:30–4pm. Kids’ Wilderness Survival Camp at LLELA Lewisville Lake Environmental For something even a little wilder, join us for a week-long outdoor survival adventure day camp! Build shelters, Learning Area find edible wild plants, make fire the way of the Native Americans, learn to blend into your surroundings with 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, TX camouflage, try your hand at archery, and much more! 972-219-3550 June 26–30, 9am–Noon. Ages 6–13. LLELA.org More information at LLELA.org. For registration information, call 972-219-3550.

Build Confidence and Create Memories Super Quest Summer Camp is an adventure-filled, 3-hour camp for children ages 3–8 years. Each camp theme is based on fun, exciting missions or “Quests” that the kids are challenged to complete each day!

Each day of camp involves a fun, creative storyline DAY / SPORTS & OVERNIGHT CAMPS / CLASSES 1141 Flower Mound Rd, Ste 600 with music that will incorporate opportunities for the Flower Mound, TX 75028 kids to build self-confidence, exercise their muscles, 469-980-1220 [email protected] and stimulate their imagination while working together www.thelittlegym.com/flowermoundtx to complete each Quest!

SUMMER MUSIC, DRAMA and DANCE CAMPS for ages 4–17! JUNE 5–JULY 21 Campers learn to play REAL songs on REAL instruments! No experience needed. Students can choose from: • Ukulele • Guitar • Piano • Violin • Ballet • Drama • Sing Disney! Award-winning faculty. Beautiful new 3,500-square-foot facility with small professional performance hall. Students learn proper hand positioning, musical notation, and rhythmic accuracy in 3248 Skyway Circle North, Irving 75038 a fun group class setting! The perfect introduction to music 214-446-5225 • [email protected] fundamentals on the instrument of your choice. Parents are www.rbrmuzik.com invited to a showcase at the end of camp!

Win Kids…Famous for first-class summer camps for children. From themes like Kritter Kids to Ninja Warriors, Police and Fire and more, our caring teachers will treat your child to the super-fun camps we are famous for! Come experience sports and fitness “The Win Kids 3000 Waketon Rd. Way!” Your child will be handled with love in a Flower Mound, TX 75028 high-quality environment! Ages 2½–12. Full and 972-355-9988 www.winkids.net half-day options. Camps fill fast so enroll early. Enrollment is now in progress! northtexaschild / april 2017 31

kid culture.

station to the M-Line Trolley, an aboveground Dallas World streetcar that travels along Aquarium’s McKinney Avenue. Ride the indoor rainfor- trolley to Klyde Warren Park; the 2 est, or take bus green space boasts a playground, route 749, 52 or 59 restaurants and food trucks, and a to the Perot Museum of short walk across the street lands Nature and Science. Once there (it’s you at the Dallas Museum of Art, off the rails a six-minute ride), take your 5-and- where general admission and access ride the DART to these younger crew to the Moody Family to the kids’ activities in the Center for Children’s Museum, where your Creative Connections is free. kid-approved destinations little ones can dig for fossils and LOCATION: Haskell Avenue and WORDS BETH MCGEE arrange artificial flower bouquets. If North Central Expressway, Dallas you have older kids in tow, visit the LINES: Red, Blue and Orange Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall to learn about minerals and rocks DALLAS ZOO STATION etting around North Texas can be tricky, especially when car through time-lapse videos and Avoid the $8 parking fee at the Dallas seats, strollers, street parking and construction are involved. hands-on touch tables. Zoo by taking the DART Red Line, Next time you’re looking for kid-friendly fun outside your LOCATION: Pacific which drops you off neighborhood, take a ride on Dallas Area Rapid Transit Avenue, between just across the street G Market and Lamar from the front gate. (DART), and use the Denton County Transportation Authority’s A-train to streets, Dallas GO Make your way to the connect. DART provides the perfect vehicle for fun and easy transit all over LINES: Red, Blue, EASY zoo entrance by fol- the area — and the journey is just as fun as the destination. Green and Orange For easy travel on lowing the columns the DART and DCTA, that abstractly rep- CITYPLACE/ download the free resent animal skins. UPTOWN GoPass app for iPhone Once inside, catch HOP ON to Babe’s Chicken Dinner House for and Android. In-app STATION To get to the DART from Denton a home-style meal you don’t have to ticket purchases mean a glimpse of the For a subway- County, start at one of five A-train cook, grab a burger and milkshake at you don’t have to deal only koalas in Texas, like experience, stations in Denton or Lewisville, and Twisted Root or share a pizza straight with the hassle of visit and feed the disembark 10 stories paper tickets. Plus, the set your sights on the Trinity Mills out of Cane Rosso’s wood-burning giraffes, let the littles below ground at the trip planner provides Station in Carrollton, where you can oven. For dessert, stop at Bloom’s feed worms and Cityplace/Uptown route options to your seed sticks to their connect to the DART Green Line. A Candy and Soda Pop Shop — kiddos desired destination, Station. The station regional day pass that covers DART will love out-of-the-box offerings complete with times feathered friends at itself is a sight to and the A-train is $10 for adults and such as PB&J soda, Dr Pepper licorice and route details. If the Bird Landing, and behold, with three $2.50 for children. Voyagers in Irving and bacon cotton candy. (The green you’re wondering more — plus get escalators and two where your bus is, and Coppell can catch the DART at space in the middle of downtown a firsthand look at inclinators — clear search the route name the Simmons Hippo the Irving Convention Center and provides room for kids to run off all or number to find its elevators that travel Outpost, set to open take the Orange Line. DART passes that sugar.) current location and at an incline. Once this spring. Make the start at $2.50 for adults and $1.25 for LOCATION: Belt Line Road and estimated arrival time. you’ve ridden the kids. DART, 214/979-1111; dart.org Broadway Street, Carrollton trip on Monday or inclinator at least Tuesday to receive a DCTA, 940/243-0077; dcta.net LINES: Green twice (trust us, the kids will beg to $2 discount on zoo admission with DOWNTOWN WEST END STATION go again), admire the colorful sta- your same-day DART pass. tion art featuring fossils and Native LOCATION: CARROLLTON Head toward the West Ewing Avenue and American pictographs. From there, Clarendon Drive, Dallas STATION 1 End Station for easy we recommend jumping on the free LINES: If you’re looking access to top spots Red for good grub, exit for science and at the Downtown nature lovers. Make 1 // Head to the lower level of the Dallas World Aquarium to find a Carrollton Station the four-minute variety of fish and other sea creatures. 2 // The Dallas Zoo is full of

©ISTOCK.COM/WSFURLAN; PHOTOS COURTESY OF DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM; DALLAS ZOO DALLAS AQUARIUM; WORLD DALLAS OF COURTESY PHOTOS ©ISTOCK.COM/WSFURLAN; and make your way walk from the opportunities for kids to interact with animals.

northtexaschild / april 2017 33 NOAA ENVIRONMENTAL SUPER GROUPS VETS AIR FORCE • ARMY • COAST GUARD • MARINE CORPS • NAVY ECO EXPO & SAVOR IMPACT INVESTING CONFERENCE DALLAS FARM TO MARKET MUSIC & BEER E-WASTE SUSTAINABLE GARDEN RECYCLING

300+ DEEP PROJECT SPEAKERS LEADERS IN

PLASTICITY INNOVATION I TINY NCLUDING HOUSES COLLEGES & MONARCH BUTTERFLIES BUILDINGS VIRTUAL REALITY UNIVERSITIES GREEN DESIGN FASHION E - CAPITAL SUMMIT YOGA PETTING SCUBA POOL SOLAR CARS ZOO OCEAN, CLIMATE, CORAL REEFS & RAINFORESTS NASA FAMILY FOOD TRUCKS NATIONAL FIGURES ZONE BIKE AUTO & POLITICIANS TREE CLIMBING SHOW ART

COME DO IT ALL AT EARTH DAY TEXAS. YEP, YOU’RE GOING TO BE BUSY. There’s so much to experience at the world’s largest EcoExpo & Conference. Bring your friends. Bring your family. And most of all, bring your curiosity, wonder and love for this magnificent blue marble we call home. Check it all out.

EARTHDAYTX.ORG • APRIL 21-23 • FAIR PARK • DALLAS TX

17-EDT-0149_DallasChild_PrtAd_8-75x11-25.indd 1 3/15/17 5:34 PM kid culture / AGENDA

WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH

ILLUSTRATION 5 best things to do this … BRYAN BUTLER

give eat do go play

WANT TO FIND If you have a heart for Argyle is now home to In North Texas, “Venice” Bypass the dime- Need an inexpensive MORE OF THE BEST Big Brothers Big Sisters a fairy-tale cottage with is pronounced a-dozen egg hunts option for after-school FAMILY-FRIENDLY but not the time to arched entrance and “Man-da-lay Can-al.” and drive out to or afternoon play? Try ENTERTAINMENT volunteer as a “big,” crooked roof straight Discover Irving’s own the Funny Bunny Senter Park for its rec IN NORTH TEXAS? SIGN UP FOR THE instead contribute out of Snow White. version of the Floating Festival at Toyota of center game room, WEEKEND GUIDE by signing up for the Make the trip out to City at the free Canal Lewisville Railroad Park. walking trails and AT DFWCHILD.COM/ annual Bowl for Kids’ Kimzey’s Coffee, open Fest on Saturday, April The Easter party on completely renova- NEWSLETTER. Sake at University daily from 6:30am– 22. Walk along the Saturday, April 8, stands ted playground. The Lanes on Friday, April 9pm, for a look around waterways to check out from the rest with new Senter Park 28. Enlist your kids, and for the pastries, out the cultural dances, a petting zoo, carnival Playground is bigger extended family and tea and kid-friendly face painting and games and photos and better with engi- friends to fundraise fare like snack boxes family puppet shows, with Mr. and Mrs. neered flooring, swings, and join your bowling and hot chocolate. or treat the family to Funny Bunny. Set the new play equipment team of 4–5 players. Order the babyccino a fancy ride on board kids loose on the egg in areas for kids 2–5 All proceeds benefit with sprinkles and a Venetian gondola. hunt fields for some and 5–12 years, and a the nonprofit’s Denton marshmallows, and sit Cruises start at $140 friendly competition by huge shade shelter over County programs. down with a coloring for two; free for kids age group and visit the the toddler area — all Denton, 888/887-2447 book with your littles. under 5. sponsor tables for even designed to encourage bbbstx.org/ Argyle, 940/240-1001 Irving, 972/721-2501 more goodies. Free. imaginative play. dentoncountybowl kimzeys.com irvingevents.org Lewisville, 972/219-3560 Irving, 972/721-2641 cityoflewisville.com cityofirving.org

northtexaschild / april 2017 35 kid culture everyday. EDITED BY ELIZABETH SMITH 04/22 SPRING INTO NASH @ NASH FARM

04/29 DADDY/ DAUGHTER DANCE @ MEMORIAL PARK RECREATION APRIL CENTER from Nickelodeon’s hit preschool series in meet other local makers at this 1 SATURDAY this interactive exhibit that encourages role- educational festival of invention, SPECIAL EVENT playing, sharing and problem-solving. $15 adults; creativity and resourcefulness. Free Day Out With Thomas Cotton Belt Depot, 705 S. Main St., $12 kids 2–18; free for members. with admission: $15 adults; $12 kids 2–18; free Grapevine. 866/468-7630. ticketweb.com/dowt. 8am– for museum members. 6pm Apr 1–2 and Apr 7–9. Take a train ride aboard PARADE Fort Worth Herd Fort Worth Stockyards, 130 E. Exchange Thomas the Tank Engine’s coaches, meet Sir Topham ARTS & CRAFTS Ave., Fort Worth. 817/625-9715. stockyardsstation.com. Kids Skill Building Workshop Scrap Denton, 420 S. Bell Hatt and enjoy more Thomas-themed entertainment 11:30am and 4pm daily, weather permitting. Line up Ave., Denton. 940/808-1611. scrapdenton.org. 11am– including crafts and a storytelling and video viewing along the streets to see genuine cowhands and a herd 1pm. Sign up for this painting workshop focused on area. $21. MARKET of 15 Texas longhorns in the world’s only twice-daily watercolor techniques for ages 6–12. $15. cattle drive. FREE Denton Community Market Opening Day Denton County ARTS & CRAFTS Historical Park, 317 W. Mulberry St., Denton. 940/268- NATURE Kimbell Kids Drop-In Studio Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 4326. dentoncommunitymarket.com. 9am–1pm. Garden Time for Kids Old Town Coppell, 768 W. Main St., Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/332-8451. kimbel- Browse local farm vendors for fresh and artisan-made Coppell. coppellfarmersmarket.org. 10:30am program; lart.org. 1–1:45pm Apr 1, 15 and 22. Join a brief gallery products and enjoy kids’ activities at this first market 8am–12pm farmers market. During the weekly Coppell activity and a related studio art project based on day that also honors the Chisholm Trail’s 150th anni- Farmers Market, meet under the flag pole in the Learn- patterns found in nature. For kids 12 and younger and versary with roping and blacksmithing demos and live ing Garden for a hands-on lesson in how gardens work their adult companions. Sign-up begins one hour prior music. Free activities; costs vary for products. and what is growing this week. FREE in the Piano Pavilion Education Studios. FREE ON STAGE HISTORY RECREATION Director’s Choice Medical Center of Lewisville Grand Grapevine Fun Trains Cotton Belt Depot, 705 S. Main St., Mustache Dash North Lakes Park, 2001 W. Windsor Dr., Theater, 100 N. Charles St., Lewisville. 972/219-8446. Grapevine. 817/410-3185. gvrr.com. 10–11am each Sat. Denton. 940/484-4384. firstrefugeministries.org/dash. lakecitiesballet.org. 7:30pm. Watch this program of clas- Boarding begins at 9:30am. Climb aboard the authentic 8am races; 9:30am awards; 9:45am–12pm food trucks, sical and contemporary dance presented by LakeCities 1920s-era Victorian coaches for a one-hour ride on the photo booths and live music. Sign up for the 10K, 5K, Ballet Theatre with special guest artist Steven Loch of Grapevine Vintage Railroad. This shortened excursion is or the NoK for nonrunners and stay for a family-friendly Pacific Northwest Ballet. $20. ideal for families with younger children. $10 adults; $8 party. All proceeds from this second annual race benefit EXHIBIT kids 13 months–12 years. First Refuge Ministries. All registered participants get a Dora and Diego – Let’s Explore Fort Worth Museum of Sci- EDUCATIONAL tech shirt and a mustache. $40 10K; $30 5K; $20 NoK. ence and History, 1600 Gendy St., Fort Worth. 817/255- iMake – Maker Fest Fort Worth Museum of Science and RECREATION 9300. fwmsh.org. 10am–5pm Mon–Sat and 12–5pm History, 1600 Gendy St., Fort Worth. 817/255-9300. Nature Walk Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, Sun through Jun 4. Learn words in Spanish and play fwmsh.org/imake. 10am–4pm. Learn how to build 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville. 972/219-7980. llela.org. 10am–

with Dora, her animal-rescuing cousin and their friends Popsicle stick flashlights, make your own 3-D art and 12pm. Look for animal tracks, deer trails, singing birds or VISITORS & GRAPEVINE CONVENTION OF COURTESY PHOTOS RECREATION AND CITY LEWISVILLE PARKS OF BUREAU; 36 april 2017 / northtexaschild unique trees on this all-ages hike. Free with gate entry: $5 per vehicle; cash or check only. ON STAGE Oliver! The Campus Theatre, 214 W. Hickory St., Denton. 940/382-1915. dentoncommunitythe- atre.com. Apr 1–2 and Apr 6–9. Watch the Denton Community Theatre performance of the classic June 5-August 11 musical about the orphan boy who pick-pockets as he searches for a home and a family to love; based on the novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dick- ens. $22 adults; $10 kids 12 and younger. SPECIAL EVENT Ages Pet Pawlooza Irving Animal Care Campus, 4140 4-16 Valley View Ln., Irving. 972/721-2256. cityofirving. org. 10am–2pm. Celebrate the Irving Animal Care Campus’ sixth anniversary by bringing your camps!14 family pet to this fundraising event with food trucks, live music, pet games and photos. Free admission; dog and cat adoptions for $5. ON STAGE Red Riding Hood Casa Mañana Theatre, 3101 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. 817/332-2272. casa- REGISTER NOW! manana.org. 1 and 5pm Apr 1; 2pm Apr 2. Watch this new musical about Red, the brave girl who must journey through the forest to reunite her Kids stay cool and experience the Summer of ’17: Peace, family and save her mother’s bakery from closing Love & Art vibe through 14 unique adventures in visual arts, down. Tickets start at $16. theatre, music, creative writing at Irving Arts Center. NATURE Spring Guided Hikes Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve, 355 E. Bob Jones Rd., Southlake. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF CAMPS AND 817/491-6333. bjnc.org. 9–10am every Sat in Apr. Celebrate Earth Day all month by exploring TO REGISTER, VISIT www.irvingartscenter.com the trails and observing the blooming flowers, butterflies, birds and, with some luck, whitetail Open 7 days a week • Free parking • 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. • Irving, TX, 75062 Smithsonian A liate deer. For all ages. $5 for nonmembers; free for members. SPECIAL EVENT Spring Trash Off and Environmental Fair Home Depot parking lot, 852 Long Prairie Rd., Flower Mound. 469/828-9074. kfmb.org. 8:30–11am cleanup; 10am–1pm fair. Pick up supplies provid- ed by Keep Flower Mound Beautiful volunteers and disperse in groups to clean up trash and recyclable materials around town. Then bring back your findings to Home Depot for lunch, door prizes and kids’ activities. FREE NATURE Star Party Rafes Urban Astronomy Center, 2350 Tom Cole Rd., Denton. 940/369-8213. astronomy. unt.edu. 30 minutes after sunset, weather permitting. Gaze at celestial bodies through 10:30am Daily Giraffe Feeding telescopes, see the Hudson Planetwalk and learn about the night sky from University of North April 3 - August Texas staff members and students. $5; free for kids 4 and younger. Cash only. 9am - 5pm RODEO (last tickets 4:30pm) Stockyards Championship Rodeo Cowtown Coli- seum, 121 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth. 817/625- August - April 2 1025. stockyardsrodeo.com. 8pm every Fri and Sat. Watch real cowboys and cowgirls compete 10am - 4pm in the world’s only year-round rodeo and let your (last tickets 3:30pm) kids go down into the arena to participate in the calf and mutton scrambles. $19 adults; $10 kids 3–12. $3.50 surcharge for online tickets. ARTS & CRAFTS Target First Saturdays Nasher Sculpture Center, Zoo Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt 2001 Flora St., Dallas. 214/242-5100. nasher- sculpturecenter.org. Open 10am–5pm; activities 4/15/17 at 8am sharp! 10am–2pm. Explore repetition by creating butterflies at this family day for preschoolers and elementary-age children. Plus, listen to a story reading, join a yoga session in the garden, and Gainesville, Texas enjoy more family programming. FREE PLAYTIME Town Expo and Touch-A-Truck Little Elm Rec Center, 303 Main St., Little Elm. 972/731-3277. littleelm.org. northtexaschild / april 2017 37 kid culture / EVERYDAY

10am–2pm. Visit the face painter and balloon artist Baghdad, written and illustrated by James Rumford, inside the gym, then head outside to the parking lot and do simple art activities. For ages 4–6; max of to see and climb on the town’s department vehicles two kids per adult. Call to register. FREE such as a firetruck and police car. FREE CONTINUING: RECREATION Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Zoo Run Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Worth. 817/759-7555. fortworthzoo.org/zoo-run. 7:30am 1K; 8am 5K. Dress up like your favorite animal, jog through the zoo and surrounding neigh- 5 WEDNESDAY borhoods at this 20th annual event, and stay for the STORY TIME food, an awards ceremony and animal presenta- Kids Story and Craft Time Whole Foods Market, 4041 tion. Registration includes an admission ticket valid Waller Creek, Highland Village. 972/538-9710. through 2017. $35 on race day; registration needed wholefoodsmarket.com. 10:30–11:30am. Bring your for ages 3 and older. kids ages 2–6 for stories, crafts and healthy snacks at CONTINUING: the kids’ area near the cafe. FREE See dfwchild.com for more events. NATURE Seedlings – Seed Bingo Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/392- 2 SUNDAY 5510. fwbg.org. 11am–12pm. Bring gardening ARTS & CRAFTS gloves and meet at the Backyard Vegetable Garden Crafternoon Scrap Denton, 420 S. Bell Ave., Denton. for this Green Thumb Club program for kids ages 940/808-1611. scrapdenton.org. 1–3pm Apr 2; 4–6. Max of two kids per caregiver. FREE 3:30–5:30pm Apr 5 and 19. Bring your kids ages CONTINUING: 6–12 for a make-and-take craft. On Apr 2 and 5, Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr make a custom journal with felt, assorted paper and 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Crafternoon See Apr 2. embroidery floss. On Apr 19, make a butterfly from yarn. $5 per child. ARTS & CRAFTS 6 THURSDAY DMA Family Days Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. SCIENCE Harwood St., Dallas. 214/922-1200. dma.org. 11am– First Thursday Late Night – Nano Perot Museum 5pm each Sun through May 7. Get free admission of Nature and Science at Victory Park, 2201 N. to the special exhibit México 1900–1950: Diego Field St., Dallas. 214/428-5555. perotmuseum. Rivera, Frida Kahlo, José Clemente Orozco, and the org. Museum open for extended hours 5–9pm. Avant-Garde and enjoy art-making activities, music, Activities from 7–9pm. Check out real-world bilingual tours and DMA gallery activities for all nanotechnology, observe objects and images at ages. FREE macro-, micro- and nanoscale, and have fun with ARTS & CRAFTS nano experiments. Free with admission: $19 adults; Drawing from the Collection for Children The Modern $12 kids 2–17. Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St., Fort ARTS & CRAFTS Worth. 817/738-9215. themodern.org. 2–3:30pm. JumpstART Stories & Art Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. Bring a sketchbook and pencils to join informal MacArthur Blvd., Irving. 972/252-2787. irvingartscen- drawing exercises led by Grand Studio for ages ter.com. 10am. Listen to stories about colors and 5–12. Arrive early and sign up at the information shapes and join a related art project during this desk. FREE monthly program for ages 2 and older. FREE ARTS & CRAFTS PLAYTIME Family Festival Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Suds of Fun South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Ln., Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/332-8451. kimbellart. Denton. 940/349-8752. dentonlibrary.com. 3:30pm. org. 12–5pm. Take part in art projects, story readings Discover the many uses of soap and create bubble and live performances at this all-ages event offered art during this program for ages 5–8. FREE in conjunction with the exhibition Louis Kahn – The CONTINUING: Power of Architecture and the museum’s Spanish- Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr 1. language initiative Nuestro Kimbell. FREE Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Oliver! See Apr 1. ON STAGE Tomás and the Library Lady Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St., Dallas. 214/740-0051. dct.org. 1:30 7 FRIDAY and 4:30pm. Watch this bilingual play about the FITNESS life of a young boy and the librarian who fosters his Calvary Challenge – Run the Race South Lakes Park, 556 interest in learning. Based on the book written by Hobson Ln., Denton. 940/320-1944. calvarychal- Pat Mora. For ages 7 and older. Tickets start at $15. lenge.com. 5–10pm. Register online or at the event $5 for sensory-friendly shows. to join this color run benefiting Denton Calvary CONTINUING: Academy. $30. Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr 1. SPECIAL EVENT Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Oliver! See Apr 1. Red Riding First Friday Denton Downtown Denton square, 110 W. Hood See Apr 1. Hickory St., Denton. discoverdenton.com. 5–9pm. Stroll through downtown and stop into businesses 3 MONDAY and art venues open late including the Patterson- Appleton Arts Center and A Creative Art Studio. FREE CONTINUING: Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr 1. EASTER Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. First Fridays at the Farm Nash Farm, 626 Ball St., Grape- vine. 817/410-3185. nashfarm.org. 10am–12pm. Cre- ate homemade decorations for the Easter holiday 4 TUESDAY and pack special picnic baskets. $3 per person. ARTS & CRAFTS NATURE Pictures and Pages Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Night Hike Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/332-8451. kimbellart. Area, 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville. 972/219-7980. llela.org. org. 10:30–11:45am. Meet in the Piano Pavilion 8–10pm. Take a guided twilight stroll down a nature Education Studios to read Silent Music – A Story of trail and listen for the sounds of armadillos, coyotes 38 april 2017 / northtexaschild THE FUN STARTS THIS FALL! Zoo Preschool is a one–of–a–kind, educational experience for kids ages 3 to 5! Days filled with activities, including live animal presentations, guided Zoo hikes, themed crafts and more, will allow your child to explore Nature’s Niches and Habitats in the mornings or afternoons, once a week.

REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 1

FortWorthZoo.org

KIMBELL

Monday–Friday, July 17–21 or July 24–28, 1–4 �� L��� | L����� | M��� | C����� | C����������

Calling all art and music lovers! Each afternoon, campers ages 6–12 will learn how great European masters found inspiration in other art forms like music, dance, and poetry. Guest performers and studio-art projects will inspire connections with early twentieth-century art movements and individual creativity. For registration information, visit kimbellart.org.

3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard | Fort Worth, Texas 76107 | 817-332-8451 | kimbellart.org

Promotional support is provided by

northtexaschild / april 2017 39 kid culture / EVERYDAY

and owls. For ages 5 and older. Registration required by EASTER 11am the day before the hike. $11.50 per person. Easter Egg Hunt Unity Park, 2200 Briarhill Blvd., CONTINUING: Highland Village. 972/317-7430. highlandvillage. Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See org. The egg hunt begins promptly at 10am. Bring Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Oliver! See Apr 1. your camera to take pictures with the Easter Bunny Stockyards Championship Rodeo See Apr 1. and enjoy face painting, a bounce house and a fire engine. FREE EASTER 8 SATURDAY Easter Egg Scramble Jake’s Hilltop Park, 4975 Timber RECREATION Creek Rd., Flower Mound. 972/874-6276. flower- Art Boat Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning mound.com/specialevents. 1:30–3:30pm activities; Area, 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville. 972/219-7980. llela. 2:30pm egg hunt. Bring the kids to this 34th annual org. 2–4pm. On this unique kayaking tour, stop in Easter scramble for an appearance by the Easter a secluded spot and dip a paintbrush in the calm Bunny and plenty of candy. FREE water to paint scenes in nature. Open to ages 7 EASTER and older and paddlers of all skill levels. Register Eggtastic Easter Little Elm Park, 701 W. Eldorado by 11am the previous Fri. $25 per paddler. $5 per Pkwy., Little Elm. 214/975-0406. littleelm.org. 10am– vehicle gate entry fee; cash or check only. 2pm. Compete in the kite flying contest, take part EASTER in the children’s games and rides and bring your Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Martin Luther King basket for the giant Easter egg hunt. Divided into Jr. Recreation Center, 1300 Wilson St., Denton. age groups: 3 years and younger, 4–8 years, and 9 940/349-8575. dentonparks.com. 10am. Eat a and older. FREE pancake breakfast and take a photo with the Easter EASTER Bunny. Register online or at the door. $5 per person; Funny Bunny Lone Star Toyota of Lewisville Railroad $1 per additional photo. Park, 1301 S. Railroad St., Lewisville. 972/219-3560. ARTS & CRAFTS cityoflewisville.com. 9:30am–12:30pm. Play carnival Children’s Workshop Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp games, visit a petting zoo, snap photos with Mr. and Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/332-8451. kimbellart. Mrs. Funny Bunny and fill your Easter basket with org. 10am–12pm. Learn how to sketch bricks, goodies from sponsor tables and egg hunts open to columns and arches in this architecture-focused kids 13 and younger. FREE program for kids ages 6–12 and their adult partners. EASTER Held in the Piano Pavilion Education Studios. Call Irving Citywide Egg Hunt Heritage Park, 217 S. to register. $12 for museum members; $15 for Main St., Irving. 972/721-2501. irvingevents.org. nonmembers. 9:30–11:30am. Bring your camera for photos with ARTS & CRAFTS the Easter Bunny and take part in egg hunts with ColorPalooza Old Town Lewisville, 151 W. Church St., thousands of toy-filled and candy-filled eggs. Activi- Lewisville. 972/219-3401. lewisvillecolorpalooza.com. ties for children ages 3–10 include a petting zoo 10am–5pm. Put your artistic skills on display in the and crafts. FREE Chalk This Way contest; visit the children’s art tent for EASTER coloring, painting and clay skills; play on inflatables; KidX – Hop into Spring Irving Mall, 3880 Irving Mall, and create your own design at the DIY tie-dye sta- Irving. 972/255-0572. shopirvingmall.com. 3–5pm. tion. Free admission; fee for some activities. Meet at Center Court in front of Burlington for crafts, ARTS & CRAFTS face painting, an Easter egg hunt and time with the Craftology Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Easter Bunny. FREE 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/738-1933. EASTER cartermuseum.org. 6–10pm. Take part in this com- Nash Farm Easter Egg Hunt Nash Farm, 626 Ball St., munity event that highlights the best of Cowtown Grapevine. 817/410-3185. nashfarm.org. 9:30am– culture with artisan workshops, craft activities, 12:30pm. Bring your camera for the 42nd annual snacks, music and specialized tours available all egg hunt, plus face painting, a petting zoo and night. Arrive early to reserve your spot. FREE wagon rides. Egg hunts divided into five age FITNESS groups. Look for the special prize eggs in each Denton Means Business 5K & Fun Run UNT Apogee division. FREE Stadium, 1251 S. Bonnie Brae St., Denton. 940/382- ARTS & CRAFTS 9693. denton5k.com. 8:30am fun run; 9am 5K run; Paint and Take Pottery Painting Lee Park Recreation 10am tailgate; 10:30am awards; 2pm UNT football Center, 3000 Pamela Dr., Irving. 972/721-2508. cityo- game. Join the second annual 5K and 1-mile run firving.org. 11am–3pm. Get creative at this pottery event benefiting the Mayor’s Youth Summer Jobs painting event for children ages 5 and older. Regis- Program. Races take place on the 50-yard line in ter by Apr 6. Prices vary based on chosen piece. Apogee Stadium. 1-mile fun run free for kids. 5K CONTINUING: registration starts at $20 for adults and $15 for kids. Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr SCIENCE 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Garden Time for Kids See Discovery Day – Earth Perot Museum of Nature and Apr 1. Grapevine Fun Trains See Apr 1. Oliver! See Apr Science at Victory Park, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas. 1. Spring Guided Hikes See Apr 1. Stockyards Champion- 214/428-5555. perotmuseum.org. 10am–4pm; ship Rodeo See Apr 1. sneak peek for members only from 9–10am. Cel- ebrate the upcoming Earth Day by exploring earth science and green science, creating earth-friendly 9 SUNDAY art, conducting mineral testing experiments and ARTS & CRAFTS making energy-efficient circuits. Free with admis- Second Sunday Funday Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. sion: $19 adults; $12 kids 2–17; free for members. MacArthur Blvd., Irving. 972/252-2787. irvingartscen- EASTER ter.com. 1–4pm. In honor of Earth Day, celebrate the Easter Bunny Photo Booth Old Town Coppell, 768 importance of landscapes in artwork by making one W. Main St., Coppell. coppellfarmersmarket.org. during this program for kids and their parents. Gal- 8:30am–12pm Apr 8 and 15. Bring your dog to lery inspiration: Resonance and Memory – Essence the Coppell Farmers Market and snap photos with of Landscape. FREE the Easter Bunny. Free; donations to the Coppell FESTIVAL Humane Society are encouraged. Dallas Blooms – Flower Power Dallas Arboretum, 8525 40 april 2017 / northtexaschild Photo by Hoyoung Lee baby & model search model & Fair SATURDAY, MAY 20 20TH ANNUAL $45ON-SITEREGISTRATION 2601 PRESTON RD., FRISCO $35 ONLINEREGISTRATION STONEBRIAR CENTRE 10AM–3PM DFWCHILD.COM kid culture / EVERYDAY blems in Pro School? Garland Rd., Dallas. 214/515-6615. dallasarboretum. CONTINUING: org. 9am–5pm. Walk among more than 500,000 Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. spring-blooming bulbs, topiary Volkswagen Bugs Stockyards Championship Rodeo See Apr 1. and family activities on the exhibit’s last official day. $15 adults; $10 kids 3–12. CONTINUING: 15 SATURDAY Day Out With Thomas See Apr 1. Dora and Diego See Apr EASTER 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Oliver! See Apr 1. DMA Coppell Eggstravaganza Wagon Wheel Park, 345 Free- Family Days See Apr 2. port Pkwy., Coppell. 972/462-5100. coppelltx.gov/ events. 10am–12pm. Egg hunts begin promptly at 10:30am for kids ages 6 and younger and at 11am 10 MONDAY for kids ages 7–10. Hunt for candy- and toy-filled EDUCATIONAL eggs and enjoy bounce houses, face painting, music Neurofeedback Training Bee All You Can Bee Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 and photos with the Easter Bunny. FREE Oakland St., Denton. 940/349-8752. dentonlibrary. EASTER A medication-free alternative com. 3:30pm. Learn how bees are a vital part of the Easter Egg Roll Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic for ADD/ADHD, behavior environment and see an enclosed observation hive Site, 609 S. Lamar Ave., Denison. 903/465-8908. in this program led by Michelle Boerst of the Denton visiteisenhowerbirthplace.com. 2:30–4:30pm. and learning disorders. County Beekeepers Association. For ages 5–10. FREE Participate in an egg scramble, compete in egg roll CONTINUING: races, make crafts and learn how President Dwight Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Eisenhower and First Lady Mamie Eisenhower revived the Easter Egg Roll tradition at the White House in 1953. For ages 12 and younger. FREE 11 TUESDAY EASTER BOOKS & AUTHORS Easter Eggstravaganza Denton Civic Center, 321 E. Richard E. Davis, M.S. Firecracker Book Club Flower Mound Public Library, Licensed Professional Counselor McKinney St., Denton. 940/349-8733. dentonparks. 3030 Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound. 972/874-6167. com. 9:30am bounce house and crafts; 10:45am Nationally certified and 20+ years experience fmlibrary.net. 4–5pm. Join a book discussion and do magic show; 11:30am egg hunts divided by age in neurofeedback with children and adults related activities for children in third–fifth grades. groups. Bring your toddlers and kids up to fifth 940-243-7586 Call ahead for the month’s featured title. FREE grade for activities at the civic center and Quaker- CONTINUING: town Park. FREE 817-589-1300 Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. BOOKS & AUTHORS 4232 N. I-35, Denton, TX 76207 North Texas Book Festival Patterson-Appleton Arts www.neurotherapyassociatestx.com 12 WEDNESDAY Center, 400 E. Hickory St., Denton. 940/382-2787. STORY TIME ntbf.org. 10am–3pm. Listen to more than 60 authors including guest speaker Nancy Churnin, author of Pete the Cat Story Time Emily Fowler Central Library, the children’s book The William Hoy Story. Join an 502 Oakland St., Denton. 940/349-8752. dentonli- Easter egg hunt and take pictures with the Easter brary.com. 11am. Celebrate all things Pete the Cat Bunny. Registration is required for the breakfast. Free from the children’s book series and make a related admission. Chuckwagon breakfast is $10 for adults craft to take home. Best for ages 1–5. FREE and $5 for kids. CONTINUING: HISTORY Daddy Daughter Dance Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Saturday at the Cabin Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville. 972/219- 13 THURSDAY 7980. llela.org. 12–3pm. Tour the Minor-Porter EASTER log home, smokehouse, dugout and homestead BOOTS AND Egg-stravagant Hunt Georgia Farrow Recreation Cen- grounds, and make a pine cone bird feeder during ter, 530 Davis Dr., Irving. 972/721-2519. cityofirving. this come-and-go program with docents and local org. 10–11:30am. Celebrate the coming of spring musicians. Free with gate entry: $5 per vehicle, cash with an egg hunt and Easter party for children ages or check only. BEAUTIES 3–6. Register by Apr 6. $5 per child. ARTS & CRAFTS NATURE Tax Day Pottery Painting Northwest Park Recreation Family Fun – Seed Balls Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Center, 2800 Cheyenne St., Irving. 972/721- April 29, 6–9pm 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/392-5510. 2529. cityofirving.org. 11am–3pm. Relax with an fwbg.org. 6–7pm. Make wildflower seed balls during afternoon of painting for ages 6 and older. Register $20 per person this children’s Green Thumb Club program. FREE by Apr 13. Prices vary based on chosen piece but Ages 4–12 years old NATURE start at $6. Memorial Park Recreation Center Mommy and Me – Junior Explorers Bob Jones EASTER 1950-B S. Valley Pkwy. Nature Center and Preserve, 355 E. Bob Jones Rd., Underwater Easter Egg Hunt Flower Mound Com- Southlake. 817/491-6333. bjnc.org. 10–11am. Join munity Activity Center, 1200 Gerault Rd., Flower Registration deadline is April 18 this monthly environmental education program for Mound. 972/874-6280. flower-mound.com/cac. 10am–12pm. Meet the Easter Bunny, enjoy crafts The event will include light appetizers/ sensory toys and trail hikes with a BJNC instructor. and games and take a dip in the pool to hunt for refreshments, DJ, “Make Your Own” For parents and their kids ages 3 years and younger. floating eggs. For ages 3–12; swim times divided Trail Mix Bar, complimentary photos from Register online. $10 per class per parent/child pair; into age groups. Registration is required. $6 non- our photo booth and much more! free for Explore With Me Club members. CONTINUING: members; $5 for CAC members. For more information call 972.219.5061. Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Garden Time for Kids See Apr 1. Grapevine Fun Trains 14 FRIDAY See Apr 1. Kimbell Kids Drop-In Studio See Apr 1. Spring EASTER Guided Hikes See Apr 1. Stockyards Championship Rodeo Easter Celebration Cimarron Park Recreation Center, See Apr 1. Easter Bunny Photo Booth See Apr 8. 201 Red River Trl., Irving. 972/910-0702. cityofirving. org. 10am–12pm. Take pictures with the Easter Bunny, meet furry creatures at the petting zoo, hunt 16 SUNDAY for eggs and enter for a chance to win door prizes. EASTER cityoflewisville.com © Ads with © are of Lauren Publications, Inc. 2017. For ages 6 and younger. $5 per child. Easter on the Lawn Prestonwood Polo Club, 501 42 april 2017 / northtexaschild Martingale Trail, Oak Point. 214/390-3444. prestonwoodpolo.com. 1–4pm. Join Prestonwood Polo Club and Crossway United Methodist Church for an Easter worship service, a polo match and an egg scramble spread over the polo field. Play in the bounce house and bring your own picnic or pick up snacks at the pavilion. $10; free for kids 12 and younger. General admission includes the polo match and champagne divot stomp. CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. DMA Family Days See Apr 2. 17 MONDAY CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. 18 TUESDAY NATURE Earth Day Birthday Grapevine Botanical Gardens, 411 Ball St., Grapevine. 817/410- 3350. playgrapevine.com. 4–4:45pm Apr 18; 10–10:45am Apr 20. Register online and meet at Pewitt Pavilion for this children’s class with a story reading and a recycled art project for ages 3–6. $5 per child. CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. 19 WEDNESDAY SPECIAL EVENT Thin Line Downtown Denton, multiple locations. 888/893-4560. thinline.us. Apr 19–23. Check online for the final schedule of live music concerts, photography exhibitions and film screenings including a family-friendly film. Registration is required for entry. FREE CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Crafternoon See Apr 2. 20 THURSDAY FESTIVAL Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival Downtown Fort Worth. 817/336-2787. main- streetartsfest.org. 10am–10pm Apr 20; 10am–11pm Apr 21–22; 10am–8pm Apr 23. Browse artwork from more than 213 artists and dine on a variety of culinary options at the largest arts festival in Texas. The Main St. Creates! area at the north end of the festival features craft activities such as face painting and sand art. FREE CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Earth Day Birthday See Apr 18. Thin Line See Apr 19. 21 FRIDAY ON STAGE Disney’s The Little Mermaid Casa Mañana Theatre, 3101 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. 817/332-2272. casamanana.org. Each Fri–Sun through May 14. Watch Casa Mañana’s children’s theater production based on the classic animated film about the girl who trades her fins for legs. Runs 1 hour 30 minutes with a 20-minute intermission. Tickets start at $20. FESTIVAL Earth Day Texas Fair Park, 1121 First Ave., Dallas. 214/310-1200. earthdaytx.org. 10am–6pm Apr Apr 21–23. Watch multiple kid-friendly screenings at the event’s inaugural film impact festival, EARTHxFilm, and explore the hundreds of booths and activities including a farmers market, tiny houses, tree climbing, an Omni- Globe and a solar car challenge. Free; special fees apply to select conferences and events. ON STAGE Happily Ever After Castle Hills Village Shops, 2540 King Arthur Blvd., Lewisville. 972/410-6500. castlehillsvillageshops.com. 7pm. Bring your chairs and blankets to sit and watch storybook characters Cinderella, Rapunzel, Belle, Pocahontas, Jasmine and Snow White in a production of Happily Ever After by Geppetto’s Marionette Theater. FREE ARTS & CRAFTS Late Night at the DMA Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St., Dallas. 214/922- 1200. dma.org. 6pm–12am. Listen to contemporary jazz music by live perfor- mers, watch the PG-rated 2014 filmThe Hundred-Foot Journey and get your copy of The Artists’ and Writers’ Cookbook signed by editor Natalie Eve Garrett. $15; free for kids 11 and younger and DMA members. Some exhibitions require an additional ticket. FILM Movies in the Park Quakertown Park, 321 E. McKinney St., Denton. 940/349-7275. dentonparks.com. 8pm activities; movie at 9pm or dusk. Roast marshmallows, northtexaschild / april 2017 43 kid culture / EVERYDAY

make crafts and bring a blanket or chairs to watch 2701 W. Windsor Rd., Flower Mound. 972/874-6276. Disney’s Finding Dory on an outdoor screen. FREE flower-mound.com/specialevents. 6–9pm. Dress to ON STAGE impress at this memorable evening of food, enter- Stuart Little Studio B Performing Arts Center, 2400 FM tainment and dancing for dads and their daughters 407, Highland Village. 972/966-2787. studiobtheater. ages 4–13. Photos available for an additional charge. com. Each Fri–Sun Apr 21–30. Watch local kids in Registration is required by Apr 15. $50 per couple; this production based on the book by E.B. White $15 per additional child. about a mouse born into an ordinary New York fam- FESTIVAL ily. $15 adults; $10 kids 10 and younger. Japanese Garden Spring Festival Fort Worth Botanic CONTINUING: Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 817/871-7685. fwbg.org. 10am–5pm Apr 22; 1. Stockyards Championship Rodeo See Apr 1. Thin 11am–5pm Apr 23. Last admission at 4:30pm. Enjoy Line See Apr 19. Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival traditional Japanese dance, music, martial arts, raku, See Apr 20. tea ceremonies and more. $8 adults; $4 kids 4–12; free for garden members. NATURE 22 SATURDAY Raptors of North Texas Biodiversity Education Center ON STAGE at Coppell Nature Park, 367 Freeport Pkwy., Coppell. Bastien and Bastienne Winspear Opera House, 2403 972/304-3581. coppelltx.gov/bec. 10am–12pm. See Flora St., Dallas. 214/443-1000. dallasopera.org/ a live bird presentation by the executive director of family. 12:30pm crafts and activities in the lobby; the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center. FREE 2pm show. Watch The Dallas Opera’s one-act comic FESTIVAL opera, written by Mozart at the age of 12. Sung in Spring Into Nash Nash Farm, 626 Ball St., Grapevine. English with English supertitles. $5. Bring an item to 817/410-3185. nashfarm.org. 10am–2pm. Experi- donate to SPCA of Texas or North Texas Food Bank ence what life was like for Grapevine’s earliest set- to receive a free ticket. tlers by joining this 16th annual event with heritage FESTIVAL toys, tractor-drawn wagon rides, jump rope making Canal Fest Las Colinas Urban Center, 200 E. Las Co- and Nash Farm’s five baby lambs. Free admission; linas Blvd., Irving. 972/721-2501. cityofirving.org. some activities require a small fee. 2–8pm. Walk along the Mandalay Canal during CONTINUING: this outdoor festival with cultural dance displays, Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. live music and children’s activities including free Garden Time for Kids See Apr 1. Grapevine Fun Trains face painting, balloons and comedic puppet See Apr 1. Kimbell Kids Drop-In Studio See Apr 1. shows. FREE Spring Guided Hikes See Apr 1. Stockyards Champion- FESTIVAL ship Rodeo See Apr 1. Thin Line See Apr 19. Earth Day Denton Redbud Festival Denton Civic Center, 321 Texas See Apr 19. Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival See E. McKinney St., Denton. 940/349-8737. kdb.org. Apr 20. Disney’s The Little Mermaid See Apr 21. Stuart 10am–4pm. Celebrate Arbor Day at Denton’s Little See Apr 21. award-winning festival with tree and plant vendors, gardening supplies and local products for sale, family-friendly activities and live music. FREE 23 SUNDAY NATURE BOOKS & AUTHORS Chelsea Clinton First United Methodist Church of EcoCoppell EarthFest Coppell Town Center Plaza, 255 Dallas, 1928 Ross Ave., Dallas. 214/922-1200. dma. Parkway Blvd., Coppell. 972/462-5165. coppelltx.gov. org/programs/event/chelsea-clinton. 7pm. Listen 10am–2pm. Bring your own mat for yoga under the to Chelsea Clinton speak in conversation with sundial, listen to live music, climb the rock climbing KERA’s Krys Boyd about her bestselling book It’s Your wall and browse the plant sale and green living World – Get Informed, Get Inspired & Get Going! vendors. FREE written for kids 10 and older. $40 public ($55 VIP); NATURE $20 students ($40 VIP). VIP tickets include a copy of Family Campfire Lewisville Lake Environmental Learn- the book, front section seats and Fast Track pass for ing Area, 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville. 972/219-7980. the book signing. llela.org. 7:30–9:30pm. Watch the sun set and the NATURE stars appear at this traditional campfire program Wild Sundays Biodiversity Education Center at with stories, songs and s’mores. Registration is Coppell Nature Park, 367 Freeport Pkwy., Coppell. required by 11am Apr 21. $10 per person; $30 per 972/304-3581. coppelltx.gov/bec. 2:30–4pm. family of 4–6 people. Pretend to be a water molecule as you travel RECREATION through the water cycle, and then make a bracelet Family Campout Pilot Knoll Park, 218A Orchid Hill to record your journey. A come-and-go program Ln., Argyle. 972/317-7430. hvparks.com. 3pm Apr for kids ages 4–14. FREE 22 – 10am Apr 23. Pack your tents and sleeping CONTINUING: bags for overnight with a tent decorating contest, Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. s’mores, nature hunt and a movie screening. $50 DMA Family Days See Apr 2. Thin Line See Apr 19. Earth per campsite for up to four campers; $10 per ad- Day Texas See Apr 19. Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival ditional camper. See Apr 20. Disney’s The Little Mermaid See Apr 21. RECREATION Stuart Little See Apr 21. Japanese Garden Spring Festival Family Campout at Eureka 2 South Lakes Park, 556 See Apr 22. Hobson Ln., Denton. 940/349-7275. dentonpar- ks.com. 7pm Apr 22 – 8am Apr 23. Bring your sleeping bag and gear to the Eureka 2 Play- 24 MONDAY ground for this overnight with a scavenger hunt, EDUCATIONAL storytelling session and marshmallow roast. The Batteries Not Included Flower Mound Public Library, fee includes dinner and breakfast. Register by 3030 Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound. 972/874-6167. Apr 18. $15 per person; $10 to reserve a tent and fmlibrary.net. 3:30–4:30pm. Explore the world two sleeping bags. through nonfiction books and activities in science, DANCE technology, engineering and math. For kids in K– Father/Daughter Prom Flower Mound Senior Center, second grades. FREE 44 april 2017 / northtexaschild THE SOURCE

NATURE Productions sing and dance on stage as Simba, Texas Mammals South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Nala, Mufasa and more characters from the original Ln., Denton. 940/349-8752. dentonlibrary.com. Disney movie. Tickets start at $18. 6:30pm. Look at animal skins and plaster track casts ARTS & CRAFTS • Cognitive Assessment and learn how to recognize some of the local wild- Friday Funday – Butterfly Flutterby Tea Party Bob • Cognitive Brain Training life by their tracks and scat. For all ages. FREE Jones Nature Center and Preserve, 355 E. Bob CONTINUING: Jones Rd., Southlake. 817/491-6333. bjnc.org. • Sensory Integration/Focusing Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. 1–2:30pm. Join a tea party underneath a tent in the perennial flower gardens. For all ages. • Visual Math/Algebra Tutoring Register online. $12 per child for members; $15 25 TUESDAY per child for nonmembers. www.MindMenders.net NATURE CONTINUING: Little Sprouts – Seeds Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. [email protected] 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. 817/392- Stockyards Championship Rodeo See Apr 1. Disney’s The 214-755-4386 5510. fwbg.org. 9:30–10:30am. Find the seeds of Little Mermaid See Apr 21. Stuart Little See Apr 21. various fruits and do fun gardening tasks during this Green Thumb Club program for children 18–36 months. One child per caregiver. FREE 29 SATURDAY CONTINUING: DANCE Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Daddy/Daughter Dance Memorial Park Recreation Center, 1950 S. Valley Pkwy., Ste. B, Lewisville. 972/219-5061. cityoflewisville.com. 6–9pm. Wear 26 WEDNESDAY your cowboy boots and Western attire to this Boots Actors PLAYTIME & Beauties-themed party with light appetizers, a DJ Conservatory Theatre Truck Rodeo Flower Mound Public Library, 3030 and complimentary photos from the photo booth. Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound. 972/874-6167. Register by Apr 18. For girls ages 4–12 and their fmlibrary.net. 3–4:30pm. Check out vehicles and fathers or father figures. $20 per person. equipment from the town police, fire and other RECREATION departments and get free popcorn and lemonade. Family Field Day Cimarron Park Recreation Center, 201 For all ages. FREE Red River Trl., Irving. 972/910-0702. cityofirving.org. CONTINUING: 9am–1pm. Put away the sibling rivalry and team up Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. as a family to compete in a variety of classic events APRIL 28–30 such as the sack race. Then enjoy a picnic. FREE Fri & Sat 7pm CONTINUING: Sat & Sun 2pm 27 THURSDAY Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Tickets $9–$14 MUSIC Garden Time for Kids See Apr 1. Grapevine Fun Trains Irving Concert Series 4 Kids Irving Soccer Complex, See Apr 1. Spring Guided Hikes See Apr 1. Stockyards 972-436-8228 / www.GetIntoTheACT.org 3585 World Cup Way, Irving. 972/721-2501. cityo- Championship Rodeo See Apr 1. Disney’s The Little © firving.org. Gates open at 9am; show at 10am. Come Mermaid See Apr 21. Stuart Little See Apr 21. Art in the early for playtime on the covered playground. Then Square See Apr 28. Dear Edwina Jr. See Apr 28. Denton dance and sing to Mister G, the 2015 Latin Grammy Arts & Jazz Festival See Apr 28. Disney’s The Lion King Award winner for best children’s album. Designed Experience See Apr 28. We for kids ages 5 and younger. FREE Come To You! CONTINUING: Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. 30 SUNDAY NATURE Coppell Nature Park Hike Biodiversity Education 28 FRIDAY Center at Coppell Nature Park, 367 Freeport Pkwy., FESTIVAL Coppell. 972/304-3581. coppelltx.gov/bec. 1:45 and Art in the Square Southlake Town Square, 1256 Main 2:30pm. Take a 40-minute hike through the park led TEDDY BEAR St., Southlake. 817/329-5566. southlaketownsquare. by a North Texas master naturalist. Registration is com. 4–10:30pm Apr 28; 10am–10:30pm Apr 29; required. FREE WORKSHOP! 11am–6pm Apr 30. See a variety of juried fine art at CONTINUING: Hand Stuff Your Own this festival with youth art, live music on two stages, Dora and Diego See Apr 1. Fort Worth Herd See Apr 1. Furry Friend! food and children’s activities. FREE DMA Family Days See Apr 2. Disney’s The Little Mermaid Birthday Parties, Daycares & more ON STAGE See Apr 21. Stuart Little See Apr 21. Art in the Square www.stuffablepetshop.com Dear Edwina Jr. The Actors Conservatory Theatre, 359 See Apr 28. Dear Edwina Jr. See Apr 28. Denton Arts & (817) 919-5165 Lake Park Rd., Ste. 118, Lewisville. 972/436-8228. Jazz Festival See Apr 28. Disney’s The Lion King Experience getintotheact.org. 7pm Apr 28; 2 and 7pm Apr 29; See Apr 28. 2pm Apr 30. See Edwina Spoonapple, who directs the neighborhood kids in a series of production numbers for her weekly Advice-a-Palooza, in this FREE denotes free event admission. Other costs, such as parking, may apply. heartwarming musical about the joys of growing Times, dates and locations are subject to change. Please call ahead before every up. Tickets start at $9. event. If you have an event that you’d like us to consider for the next calendar, please Parties FESTIVAL go to dfwchild.com and click on calendar to submit your event. Or fax to 972/447- Denton Arts & Jazz Festival Quakertown Park, 321 E. 0633 by the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication. Events must be Daycares McKinney St., Denton. 940/565-0931. dentonjaz- open to the public and of interest to families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Please Churches zfest.com. 5–11pm Apr 28; 10am–11pm Apr 29; include name and description of event, address, phone number, website, time, Sing-alongs, Stories, 11am–9pm Apr 30. Take the family for this annual date, cost and age served. We reserve the right to edit or withhold submissions. Puppets & Fun! festival with seven stages of continuous music, fine art for sale, festival foods and the Children’s Art Tent Mr. Willy with 15 craft stations. FREE Want to see even more events? Singer-Songwriter ON STAGE Search our up-to-the-minute Children’s Book Author Disney’s The Lion King Experience Medical Center online calendar by date, location 214-328-2223 of Lewisville Grand Theater, 100 N. Charles St., and event type at dfwchild.com. www.misterwilly.com Lewisville. 972/219-8446. actingstudiotx.tix.com. Apr [email protected] 28–30 and May 4–7. Watch the kids of Acting Studio © northtexaschild / april 2017 45 confessions

“Let me start by saying that I have four children under the age of 5. One evening, after I’d cooked dinner, set the table and made everyone’s plates, all kids started to cry about something. I couldn’t take it. I flipped the table and went to my room, leaving my husband to do cleanup.” —HOLLY, DALLAS

I WALKED INTO THE mommy fails KITCHEN ILLUSTRATION MARY DUNN TO FIND MY 4-YEAR-OLD KICKING THE “I accidentally “My 7-year-old son BACK DOOR was showering in locked my MY 9-YEAR- my shower when he AND YELLING, OLD DAUGHTER started screaming. 9-month-old in SPILLED SPA- He used my razor the car in the ‘DAMN IT!’ GHETTI SAUCE and took the first driveway with WHEN I ASKED ON HER NEW layer of skin off his HIM WHAT HE WHITE JEANS, shins and forearms. my cellphone. SO I DECIDED TO The wounds weren’t I had to break WAS DOING, deep but long, and BLEACH THEM. I he had to wear maxi a window to HE SAID, ‘I’M MUST HAVE LET pads as bandages.” my house with PLAYING DAMN THEM SOAK TOO —LYNNE, FORT WORTH LONG BECAUSE a brick, climb IT, MOMMY. I THE NEXT TIME in and get the JIGGLE THE SHE WORE THEM spare key.” TO SCHOOL, SHE KEYS IN THE Got a parenting fail you’d like to —ALEX, DALLAS CAME HOME share? We’d love to hear from you. LOCK THEN MISSING A POCK- Send it to [email protected]. ET AND WITH KICK THE BOTH LEGS SPLIT I was driving on Interstate 635 with my DOOR AND JUST ABOVE 5-year-old daughter in the back when a gold- THE KNEE.” colored car cut me off. I yelled, ‘F*@$ing idiot SAY DAMN IT, —JOANN, FLOWER MOUND car!’ My daughter took that to mean that all LIKE YOU.’” gold cars were called the expletive I said and —JILL, COLLEYVILLE repeated it every time she saw a gold car.”

—ROBBIE, THE COLONY 46 april 2017 / northtexaschild

1K FUN RUN | 5K RUN/RIDE | SUPPORTED BIKE RALLIES | FAMILY-FRIENDLY CARNIVAL

I’mI’m readyready I’m ready to ride, run and have some fun while raising funds to help children of North Texas live healthier lives. Are you? Join thousands of families at the Alliance Data Red Balloon® Run and Ride on April 22 at the Children’s HealthSM Plano Campus. And together, let’s make life better for children.

Join us April 22. Register and start fundraising at childrens.com/runandride.

BENEFITING