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Dallas Parent A Magazine for the Families of Park Cities,
Preston Hollow, Lakewood and more
Award Winning Publication
June 2014 | FREE
the
it all
know
Summer Safety Slip-ups
Choosing an
Outstanding Pediatrician
10Must Ask Questions for Dad
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J une this year is so much more than a typical June. You know
gardening, planning vacations, pool par-ties, camps and day trips. This year it’s a month of preparing for a transition from our son living at home to a young man preparing to leave for college. Have I taught him enough? Is he prepared to leave home?
I know he is prepared. He had a great role model. His father. What was his father to him? Available. His father was there for him; encouraging him, challenging him, embracing him and loving him. I can remember from the very beginning, their connection was strong; their bond was tight. I will forever have the images of them in matching team jerseys, talking about sport team stats, reading the very first Harry Potter book together while both donning the black, round glasses as they read page after page.
His dad supported all his interests with great fervor and admiration. He coached, he spent long hours on the golf course, he taught him to under-stand reason in difficult situations.
He modeled temperance when dealing with the
struggles of decision making. Especially, most recently with all the decisions of col-lege preparation! He allowed the challeng-
ing of ideas, wants and demands offered from our
son; and guided him to resolu-tion and finally a commitment.
What overall was the most important trait his father modeled, I recently asked myself. I have to go with fortitude. The moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obsta-cles in the moral life.
While away from the confines of his home, he has his faith and strong sense of reason to help him when faced with challenges. And, of course, he has his biggest fans, his family.
For me, I recognize that he has a good foundation, however, I just got off the phone with him and let me just say… “A mother’s love will never end and our work is never done!” SP
Mary Ellen
Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4
A Mothers Job is Never Done
Mary shares...
Misty Stagnone Photography, www.mistystagnonephotography.com
COVER MODEL Krew B. 9 months
This lil’ guy has a smile that is contagious! And we must say, he can rock a bow tie! He loves Mickey Mouse, swinging, balloons, dogs and being outside. His mom says, “He is a gift from God and brings pure joy to his daddy and mommy. “ Right now he is busy “pulling up”. Next will be baby steps!
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Rough & Ready!Mom doesn’t always like it, but the kids love it. And, come to find out, it’s actually good for them. Recent research claims that roughhousing “makes kids smart, emotionally intelligent, lovable and likeable, ethical, physically fit, and joyful.” How so? Roughhousing makes kids more resilient and rewires the brain for learning. It also builds social intelligence as they learn the difference between play and actual aggression. It teaches tak-ing turns and the appropriate use of strength and power. Plus, it promotes an active lifestyle and creates a strong father-child bond. Things to remember when roughhousing though, is to keep it safe of course, don’t roughhouse before bed, and don’t forget the girls – it’s good for them too. So get off the couch, dad, and get down on the carpet. Wrestle with them; tickle them; let them ride on your back. It’s good fun, good exercise and good for you too!
youshouldknow...WRITE IT DOWNKeeping a gratitude journal will make you happier. Psychologists often recommend doing so and research shows that those who do are up to 25 percent happier than those who don’t. You can do it in a notebook once a month or on your iPhone every day; it doesn’t matter. And once you start do-ing it, you can’t help but recognize the goodness in your life. And that can lead to long-term health payoffs too, like lower blood pressure, a stron-ger immune system, better sleep and fewer bouts of depression.
No Clarifying Shampoo? No Problem! While shampooing, massage 1 tablespoon of baking soda into your soaped-up hair. Rinse thoroughly. This should re-move any build-up of hair spray or other hair styling products.
lolLaughing isn’t just good for our emotions it’s good for our bodies too. The Bible already knew this, “A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22, NIV). Studies have shown that laughing relaxes the whole body for up to 45 minutes, boosts the immune system and releases endorphins. All of this helps to fill your emotional tank. You can’t feel anxious, upset or angry when you’re laughing! Find ways to fit laughter into your days to fill your emotional tank. It’s as easy as having a silly conversation with a child or reading a cartoon.
Tick-Tock To schedule or not to sched-ule, that is the question. And that will always be the question because no one, not even the experts, can agree on an answer. Wheth-er it’s your first child or your fourth, knowing exactly when your baby should eat, play and sleep can be a challenge. But that’s okay as long as it all gets done. The thing toremember, whether you follow a par-ent-led schedule, a baby-led schedule or a combination of both, is that your baby’s well-being comes first. So follow your doctor’s advice and your own gut feelings to determine what your baby needs when, no matter what the schedule says.
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questions...J. BROWN, MOM OF 2
asks...Q My husband and I just separated. How do I make this an easy transi-tion for our 1 and 2 year olds.
a Separation is a difficult time for the entire family and any big changes can often be difficult to deal with. I think the attention and focus on the children is an important first step as noted in the question. Spending the time taking care of the children’s needs by both parents is vital during this transition. However, remember that you too are going through a transition yourself and making sure you are taking care of your own needs is just as important. If you are not taking care of yourself it will be difficult to care for others. Communicate with your kids before and during the transition to see how the change is affecting them. Kids are very observant and have feelings and thoughts about life themselves.
JASON S. CARTER M.A. LPC
JAMIE, MOM OF TWIN BOYS
asks...Q I am the bread winner in our home and need to travel almost ev-ery week for at least 2 nights away from home. My husband has been resentful of this and I am not sure how to make our relationship better.
a My husband travels with his job often, so I know how your husband may feel. My suggestion is to sit down with him and have a talk about this. Let him know that you appreciate all the work he does for your family and the home. Make plans together and put into the calendar your “alone” time. It is important to maintain your relationship as a couple to keep it strong. When at home, pitch in with the home-chores and more im-portantly, never criticize how he does them! Try to rest before coming home, if possible, so you’re not too tired to be active with the kids and him.
LESI, MOM OF 2 AND WIFE TO 1
HEATHER, FIRST TIME MOM
asks...Q I am a first time mom and my pediatrician just recommended an infant dental exam. He has no teeth so I am curious about what to expect.
a Your child depends upon you to help establish the habits and environment that could otherwise lead to preventable prob-lems; therefore, the first visit, as well as subsequent ones, are designed to help you gain the knowledge and skills that will aid in the healthy development of your child. You’ll receive information about the proper care of your child’s teeth based upon risk assessment, dietary counseling, and anticipatory guidance about growth and development issues. So you see, as a new mother, there is a lot to learn! By making that first dental visit you will have a much greater chance of keeping your baby on a path to a healthy future!
MARK H. KOGUT, D.D.S., M.S.D.
a I HAVE RECENTLY BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES. I AM 25 YEARS OLD AND IN GOOD SHAPE. HOW DID THIS HAPPEN, WILL
I ALWAYS BE DIABETIC AND WILL IT HURT MY BABY?
Diabetes affects 6-7% of pregnancies with 90% of these cases representing gestational diabetes. While certain ethnic groups as well as obesity and a seden tary lifestyle increase the risks for gestational dia-betes, any woman can have gestational diabetes. It is projected that up to 50% of women with gesta-tional diabetes will eventually develop diabetes later on in life. However, this figure is greatly influenced by risk factors such as ethnicity, obesity, family history and a sedentary lifestyle. Complications due to poor glucose control include larger babies which may increase the risks for birth trau ma. After delivery, babies born to women with poor glucose control may also be at risk for low blood sugars and other complications. The risks to the baby can be significantly decreased by good control of your blood sugars. It is important to have diabetic education and learn to monitor your blood glucose levels.
momsolvers
ask...theOB/GYN!JOSHUA L. WEISS, MDMaternal-Fetal Medicine SpecialistMedical City Hospital, Dallas
EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS to [email protected], subject “questions” or SUBMIT QUESTIONS ON FACEBOOK.COM/MOMSOLVERS. Either way, we’ll find answers!
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Designed with dad in mind, this diaper bag comes complete with changing pad, cell phone holder, key rings and no flower print. Perfect for dads (and moms) on the go, it’s compart-mentalized with enough space to hold all the baby essentials. Plus, it’s comfortable with its sporty messenger styling. And affordable too! All the cool dads should have one! www.diaperdude.com. $59.99
TACTILEEngagementHere’s a neat way to combine the tactile ex-perience of real toys with the iPad screen for your toddler. The Tiggly Shapes are rubber-ized toys shaped like a circle, square, triangle and star with silicon touch points for the iPad to recognize. Your kiddo can play with them using any of the 3 free Tiggly apps: Tiggly Sa-fari, Tiggly Stamps, and Tiggly Draw. Safe and durable enough for your kids ages 18 months to 3 years. Gentle enough for your iPad. www.tiggly.com. S30
Babies are so sweet and so small, so why does all their stuff have to be so big? Well, here’s an option for the kitchen that will save you a little space. This
high chair is a full-size high chair that straps to most kitchen or dining chairs, so it’s easy to store when not
in use. (It’d be great for grandma’s house!) It has a machine-washable cover and a dishwasher-safe tray
and holds up to 50lbs. It’s a great value too! Find this infant to toddler product at Babies R Us. $45
SPACE SAVER
highchair
Diaper Dude!
we love
HomeTeam APP! Here’s an app for Dads (and Moms) with multiple kids on multiple teams playing multiple sports. Whether he’s the coach or just the kids’ biggest fan, this app will help him organize those busy sports sched-ules, plus keep track of team rosters and contact info. He can send and receive emails or texts and auto-matically add games to his device calendar. But the best feature is being able to view an all-in-one schedule for all his teams’ games. Making it to all those games? Well, that’s a different story.iTunes. .99
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Father’s Day: Ten Things
You Should Ask Your Kids For
1. TimeIf you’re a dad, you’ve already done the math. You know
it’s going to be no time at all till they head off and live the
rest of their lives. Do what it takes to grab some memories
before they grab the car keys.
2. HonestyIt’s a fact that we can’t love what we don’t know. Make it
clear to your kids that your love wants to know more than it
wants to judge. It’s the love that heals, not the disapproval.
3. Advice (theirs)Father knows best? How’s that working for you? How about
asking for “Kids (might) know best?” Trust them enough to
let them in to your open-ends and loose-strings. You’ll be
surprised how much they already know.
4. A note of their favorite memoryGet the kids writing and sharing stories and remembering
good “Dad moments.” These are golden, and good for both
dad and the kids.
5. Hugs:
It doesn’t matter how old the children are, hugging dad
should never go out of style. Be proactive on this one. Ask if
you have to, but get it done.
6. Big ideas:
Ask the kids to share their vision with you. This is a little
different from advice, it’s “big picture” stuff. Ask your kids
things like, “How would you solve world hunger?” Ask them
what they think about big ideas such as space travel, world
peace, and racism. Then listen.
7. A gift with staying powerAsk your children to think about a Father’s Day gift that
won’t disappear in a day or two. Ask them (for example) for
one hour every Sunday afternoon for the next three months
so you can pick their brain. Ask them for the commitment to
walk a mile with you three times a week. Ask them to read
you their favorite comic strip every day for a month. Ask for
gifts that don’t end the moment they leave their hands.
8. A fresh startWe all need a little redemption. How about coming clean with
your kids and asking for a fresh start? Maybe you’ve been
harsh… Maybe they’ve been consistently disrespectful…
Maybe you’ve lost ground…. Whatever is going on, try to
model humility and see where the relationship goes.
9. A glimpse into their worldPrepare a list of ten “I’m too old, I don’t get this!”
questions and have a Q&A session with your kid(s).
Maybe they can respond with a list of their own. Who
knows, you may end up communicating!
10. A dinner dateYou may have to help pay for this one. But dinner out, one-
on-one with each child, can be the most fun and the most
productive parenting experience.
Huddle up with your kids tonight and say: “For Father’s Day,
I want ___________ .” SP
Reprinted with permission. This is where dads in any stage of father-
hood can find helpful resources to aid in their parenting. Fathers can
also sign up to start or attend one of our All Pro Dads chapters.
Most Dads think of Father’s Day one-dimensionally. We tend to look forward to kicking back, enjoying a few guilt-free
hours watching The US Open on television, a nice card or two, a needless tie, and maybe a day-off when it comes to
active parenting, policing the drama that goes on around the house. But the foundational idea of Father’s Day is that
of celebrating the relationship, not catering to the dad. We are dads so that we can do dad things that mean some-
thing, and we have the best celebrations when stuff happens that draw us closer to our kids. With that in mind, consider setting
the agenda for Father’s Day this year and actually putting some ideas out there that will help solidify what to get for father’s day.
Here are some suggestions, ten things you should ask your kids for this Dad’s Day.
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Ask Your Friends! You can trust their opinion and experiences. Make sure to ask several so you can have a few pediatricians to look into further. What did they like and dislike about their doctor? How does the doctor interact with their children?
Board Certified? You have every right to ask about their credentials. Being board-certified in pediatrics would be import-ant criteria for you to consider. Being board certified would ensure that they are current on the latest medical advances and treatment policies. This is mandatory to maintain their board certifica-tion. Especially important if your child has special needs.
Are They Covered?If you have to choose within a network of doctors approved by your insurance company, it’s important to confirm their affiliation prior to
the interview process. You wouldn’t want to find the perfect doctor only to realize that you can’t use them.
Location, Location, Location. Keep in mind that between immunizations and well-baby check-ups you will have many visits to your pediatrician during your child’s first year. Chances are you’ll make a few extra trips with a sick baby as well; so if your child has a high fever and is crying, you won’t want to drive very far to get there.
Where do you stand on important issues? What are your views on important areas of your child’s care? Are you going to breastfeed? Do you support co-sleeping? You would want to choose a pediatrician that can help you with your wants and needs for taking care of your little one. Keep in mind, you do not need to have everything figured out, but
Choosing an
Outstanding Pediatrician
SO YOU’RE NOW IN YOUR 12TH WEEK OF PREGNANCY AND YOU ARE BUSY WITH ALL THE PREPARATIONS FOR THE NEW
ARRIVAL TO YOUR LIFE AND HOME. I BET YOU HAVE DONE YOUR RESEARCH ABOUT THE SAFETY OF CRIBS, WHICH CAR
SEAT IS THE SAFEST, BABY MONITORS, AND MAYBE EVEN A NAME. BUT HAVE YOU CONSIDERED WHO YOUR PEDIATRICIAN
WILL BE? HERE ARE SOME TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH CHOOSING A PEDIATRICIAN.
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knowing a bit of what you have in mind would help you discuss caring for your baby with your pediatrician.
The Interview.Meet them at their office. While deciding on a pediatrician, wheth-
er you found them in a local parenting magazine or received a referral from a friend, go and visit them at their office. You will be able to see first-hand how their office is run.
At this meeting ask the important questions. Are they available by phone or email? Do they have an after-hour call center? How about a nurse practitioner? What about a lactation specialist? And a very important question is their hospital affiliations. You may want them at the hospital when you deliver your baby.
Is the atmosphere kid friendly? If there are some fun things there, you can remind them about the positives. “We’re going to see Dr. Williams today. Remember that fun slide he has in the waiting room? Maybe he will have more of those stickers you like to collect.”
Is the environment clean and professional? Pay attention to patients waiting while you are there and observe how they are treated by the office staff. Are they seen by the doctor in a timely manner? Is there a separate waiting area for well babies?
Your own instincts matter. You want to feel comfortable with your pediatrician because they will be the person you turn to when you have questions and concerns about your baby. Choosing someone to care for your precious child can be a difficult decision. You should choose the doctor that best suits your needs at this time. Should you discover later that you are not happy with the care your child is receiving, you can always switch. SP
4 Ways to Improve Parent-Doctor Communication During After Hour Calls
Although it’s important to reserve routine questions you may have for normal business hours, you should feel comfortable calling your doctor 24/7 if there is a real concern.
CHECKLIST FOR CALLING THE DOCTOR:
Have a list of your child’s symptoms, so that you don’t leave anything out. Take their temperature prior to calling the doctor.
Have a pen & paper ready to record any instruc-tions. It‘s easy to forget details when you are worried about your child.
Make sure to remind your doctor of any medical problems your child has now or has had in the past. If you are calling after hours they won’t have your child’s chart in front of them.
Be respectful and show appreciation for your doctor’s time. Yes, it is their job, but keep in mind that you may be interrupting their family time. By being efficient with your questions for the doctor, it allows for both of you to get back to your families quicker.
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This morning, my nine-year-old daugh-
ter, Jessie, and I sat in her pediatri-
cian’s office. As we waited for the
doctor, she sat beside me reading,
“I Funny: A Middle School Story.” I don’t know
anything about the book, but noticed the gram-
matically incorrect title. If I had written a story
based on my mood at the time, I would have
titled it, “I Grouchy: A Tired Dad’s Story.”
My grouchiness surfaced at the same time
as the tiny red spots on Jessie’s abdomen,
which she scratched fiercely. A similar thing
happened about ten months ago and her doc-
tor had diagnosed it as scabies.
According to About.com Pediatrics, “Sca-
bies is a skin infection caused by an infestation
with the microscopic Sarcoptes scabei parasitic
mite. Although distressing for parents, who
associate conditions like scabies and head lice
with poor hygiene, scabies is actually fairly
common.” WebMD adds, “Scabies can affect
people of all ages and from all incomes and
social levels. Even people who keep themselves
very clean can get scabies.” I can confirm the
“distressing for parents” part and, for the re-
cord, we shower daily.
During our visit ten months ago, Jessie’s
pediatrician had recommended that the whole
family use a lotion to kill the mites. Prior to
bedtime that evening, my wife, Mattie, applied
the lotion to Jessie’s entire body. How I felt as
I crawled into bed, smothered in insecticide
lotion, next to Mattie who was similarly covered,
could best be described as, “I miserable.”
The anti-mite lotion was only one step. We
also needed to kill the mites not on our bodies. I
vacuumed the entire house and everything in it
(chairs, sofas, carpet, even the dog), plus both
cars. I washed twenty loads of laundry, which
took three days. I even put Jessie’s stuffed
animals in the freezer to kill the mites. If some-
one had opened my freezer and discovered
a stuffed monkey staring at them, they might
have thought, “I crazy.”
Today, as we drove to Jessie’s pediatrician,
my feelings could be described as, “I sad.” Before
the doctor’s office opened, I had already stripped
both beds and had the washer and dryer running.
The day is young and already, “I tired.”
I don’t know what made me say this during
the 15-minute drive, as I know how much Jessie
hates shots, but I mentioned that at around age
ten, children get more vaccinations. This caught
Jessie’s attention, since her tenth birthday is
only eight months away. She whined, “I don’t
want to get a shot.” I clutched the steering
wheel, thinking, “I stupid.”
So, as I sit in the pediatrician’s waiting room, “I
grouchy, I sad, I tired, I stupid.” Then, I notice a girl
a year or two younger than Jessie who is clearly
sick. I hear a baby with a bad cough. I look over
at Jessie; she’s focused on her book. Except for a
little itch on her belly, all is well. Gratitude comes
rushing in. “I lucky.” Since her belly began to itch,
I’ve probably not been the most pleasant person
to be around. Mattie would agree. When I get
home, I will tell her, “I sorry.”
The pediatrician’s diagnosis is that Jessie’s
itch is due to mites from a pet she visited. But
this mite is different from the kind she had
before; it doesn’t survive on humans and goes
away without treatment. “I happy.”
Reflecting on this day, and another exciting
parenting experience, I reach the following
conclusions: As parents, we feel lots of intense
emotions – I grouchy, I sad, I stupid, I lucky, I
sorry, and I happy. Yet, in the pediatrician’s wait-
ing room I was reminded, “I blessed.”
Jessie just finished reading her book. She
told me there’s another book in the series titled,
“I Even Funnier.” I’m not sure what lies ahead
in my parenting days, but I’m going to strive
for “I Even Smarter,” which will be helpful when
Jessie becomes a teenager.
But whether I’m going through a joyous
parenting moment (I proud) or a challenging
time (I worried), one fact remains unchanged. “I
Dad,” and that’s a great feeling.
Until next month, remember to cherish the
moments. SP
BY PATRICK HEMPFING
Feelings
blessed
i
grouchy
miserable
crazytiredstupid sorry
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FUN the page
How true Daddy’s words were when he said: all children must look after their own upbringing. Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person’s character lies in their own hands.
— Anne Frank
LOL with James Estes!
SON: What did baby corn say to mama corn? DAD: Where’s popcorn?
SON: For $10, I’ll be good. DAD: Oh, yeah? When I was your age,
I was good for nothing.
DAD: You’ll never amount to anything ifyou always procrastinate.
SON: Oh yeah? Just you wait!
Let Dad Do What He Loves to Do...Grill!
1 In a small bowl, combine sliced avocado and lemon juice. Add
water to cover; set aside. Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil grate.
2 Heat butter in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
Sauté the onions until browned and caramelized; set aside.
What you’ll do:
One evening it took a good amount of time to get our son to bed. Once there, he yelled down, “Dad! Can you get me a glass of water?” My husband replied, “No son, you had your chance, now do not say another word or I will come up there and spank
you.” This is when our son yells down, “Dad, when you come up to spank me can you bring me a glass of water?” Reader, our son is 7 years old.
GOTTALOVE ‘EM
What you’ll need:
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced- 1 tablespoon lemon juice- 1 large Vidalia onion, sliced into rings- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves- Salt and pepper to taste- 4 hamburger buns- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise- 4 slices provolone cheese
It’s great to be in the backyard grilling again. But don’t want another hamburger? Here’s an easy recipe
for your next cookout. Dad will be the hero again!
3 Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place on grill, and cook
until no longer pink and juices run clear, about 5 minutes on each side. Place buns on grill just long enough to toast them.
4 Spread buns with mayonnaise to taste, then layer with chicken, cara-
melized onion, provolone and avocado.
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sun 1Dallas Farmers Market 8:00am-6:00pm. With about 100 vendors, visitors will find a variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, flowers and sweets. Produce vendors are located in Shed 3 and have a variety of seasonal and non-season-al produce to satisfy every visitor’s needs. The farmers are located in Shed 1 and have seasonal produce. Over the past six decades, the Dallas Farmers Market has matured into the year-round area attraction that it is today. Dallas Farmers Market, 1010 S Pearl Expwy, Dallas, 214-664-9110 www.dallasfarmersmarket.org
mon 2SP Parish Episcopal Summer Camps
Jun2-Aug 8. Many camps to choose from including sewing, art, LEGO, STEM & Technology, Dance, Sports, Magic, Chess, and Music. 4101 Sigma Rd, Dallas 972-852-8752. Request a catalog or register online at parishepiscopal.org/summerextend. See ad in this issue.
Inaugural Winspear Opera House Recital Se-ries 7:30-9:30pm. The series concludes on June 2, 2014 with the internationally acclaimed pianist André Watts. Admission: $60 to $175. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St., Dallas, 214.880-0202 www.attpac.org
tue 3Free LEGO Mini Build 5:00-6:30pm. Children ages 6-15 ONLY can celebrate every month with a free mini build at LEGO stores at Stonebriar Mall & Northpark Center. First Tuesdays beginning at 5:00pm until all the kits are gone. LEGO stores in Dallas & Frisco. www.lego.com
Music and Stories with KidsWorks 11:00am-12:00pm. Grab the kiddos for a storytelling session in the park! Cute stories and fun tunes for little ones presented by Miss Kimberly. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Frwy, Dallas, www.klydewarrenpark.org
APSIG at the Timberglen Branch Library 6:00-8:00pm. APSIG (Astrophotography Special Inter-est Group) is sponsored by the Texas Astronomi-cal Society of Dallas, and meets the first Tuesday of the month. Timberglen Branch Library, 18505 Midway Rd., Dallas, www.dallaslibrary2.org
wed 4 Cool Tunes for Kids presented by Eric Herman 10:30-11:15am. Eric Herman’s family concert is one of the most creative and entertain-ing kid’s music shows available. With non-stop interaction, incredibly fun and engaging songs and a lot of comedy and surprises is provided throughout. Eric’s show is a hit with Kids, parents and caregivers throughout the United States Bookmarks, Northpark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, 214-671-1381
thu 5La Leche League Dallas (PM) 7:00-8:00pm. Lower Level Conference Room, Margot Per-ot Building. LEADER INFORMATION: Hannah 214-562-0738 [email protected]; Heather 214-507-7564 [email protected]; Alison [email protected]. Texas Health Presby-terian Hospital of Dallas, 8200 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas, www.texaslll.org
sat 7Young Dragons with the Crow Collection of Asian Art 10:00-11:00am. Learn how to move like a ninja with the Crow Collection of Asian Art. Experience ninja games and activities that teach kids and adults how to think and move like a real ninja. Participate in safe and engaging introductory lessons on ninja tools, ninja balance and more. Taught by Randle Charles of Better Humans LLC. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Frwy, Dallas, www.klydewarrenpark.org
Skyline 360 Tour with the Dallas Center for Architecture 2:30-3:00pm. Join the Dallas Cen-ter for Architecture for a “standing” tour of the Dallas skyline. Klyde Warren Park offers the per-fect vantage point to see the buildings that have made up Dallas’ architectural heritage for the last 100 years. In 20 minutes, you’ll learn all about the buildings that define our skyline in Uptown and Downtown Dallas. Meet in the Reading Room. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Frwy, Dallas, www.klydewarrenpark.org
Mamma Mia! Jun 7-15, show times vary per date so check the website. Content warning: MAMMA MIA! Contains some adult humor and situations, recommended for ages 11 and up. Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes. A mother. A daughter. 3 pos-
sible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 First Ave., Dallas, 214-565-1116 www.dallassummermusicals.org/shows_mammamia.shtm
sun 8Adaptive and Inclusive Dance Workshop for Instructors and Healthcare Workers 9:00am-5:00pm. The Dance Council of North Texas (DCNT) announces an Adaptive and Inclusive Dance Workshop for Instructors and Healthcare Workers. Cost of the one-day workshop is $65.00 for non-members and $55.00 for current DCNT members. Lunch is included in the fee. Contact DCNT Adaptive Dance Committee Chair Misty Owens at [email protected] for more information and registration. Group discussions and sharing sessions will be included in this work-shop. Sammons Center for the Arts, Meadows Hall, 3630 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, 214-219-2290 www.thedancecouncil.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=752324&module_id=33014
mon 9SP Special Ops Vacation Bible School at
Prestonwood. Jun 9-13. Discover the clues, decide on the evidence and defend your faith in this five-day, action packed adventure. For ages 3-grade 6. 9am – noon. Free, but registration required. Dallas Campus, 12123 Hillcrest Rd, Dallas 972-820-5000 Prestonwood.org/vbs. See ad in this issue.
SP Summer Chess Camp at UT Dallas Jun 9-13. Join beginner, intermediate or advanced
chess classes for ages 7-13. 9am-noon or 1-4pm and extended playing classes available. Other sessions June 16-20, July 14-18 and July 21-25. Register at www.utdallas.edu/chess. For more info, call 972-883-4899 or email [email protected]. See ad in this issue.
Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp Jun 9-Aug 15, 9am-4pm. Boys and girls ages 8-18 of all skill levels learn the game from the best camp coaching staff in Texas. Professional coaches are handpicked for their basketball knowledge and ability to work well with kids. Combining excel-lent coaching and a proven program focused on each camper, Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp delivers valuable lessons and plenty of fun!
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Find more details and register online! Hoop Camp runs Mon–Fri. $240. Various sites-visit website for a location near you and to register. 214-747-MAVS(6287) www.mavs.com/community/hoop-camp
DSM Summer Musical-Theater Classes 9am-6pm. Three dates to choose from depending on age group: June 9-13 9am-6pm, Ages 7-11; June 16-20 9am-6pm, Ages 12-14; June 23-27 9am-6pm, Ages 15-18. Early drop off 8am. Musical Theatre training, Singing, Dancing, Acting. Class Presentation: Last day of class. International Music Conservatory Per-formance Hall, Plano International Music Conservatory, 3321 Premier Dr., Plano, 214-969-7469 www.dsmschool.org/dsmschool/2010/calendar.html
Cooper Fitness Center at Craig Ranch Summer Camps Jun 9-Aug 22. One and two week sessions all summer including a Swim Academy for ages 3-13, a Youth Fit Camp for ages 5-12 and Sports Camps for ages 5-18. 7910 Collin McKinney Pkwy, McKinney 214-383-1000 www.cooper-craigranch.com
tue 10Mobile Dairy Classroom 10:30-11:30am. Bring your cameras & your lawn chairs and join us behind the library for the Southwest Dairy Farmers Mobile Dairy Classroom. The kids will learn all about cows and the impor-tance of how dairy helps our bodies. The presenter will show how a cow is milked through a live demonstration. Fun will be had by all! Preston Royal Branch Library, 5626 Royal Ln, Dallas, 214-670-7128
Discovey Wall 11:00am-12:00pm. Take a trip to famous museums, aquar-iums, zoos and more without leaving Dallas! Children will interact with people around the world through a video-conference system on a high definition 14x14 flat screen in the library’s Children Center. Dallas Library, Central Branch, Children’s Center, 1515 Young St, Dallas, 214-670-1671
National Tap Dance Celebration 6:30-7:15pm. The Dance Council of North together with the Dallas Summer Musicals, present the exciting “Before-the-Show Show” of energetic tap dancing. Prior to the big show at the Music Hall in Fair Park, see 45 minutes of fast-paced, enthusiastic dancing from tappers throughout the Metroplex. The free “TAP-Sational Pre-Show” is like a Red Carpet entry for dancers and audience to enjoy some delightful entertainment on their way to the Music Hall. You will see some of the finest tap dancing Texas has to offer. Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Ave, Dallas, 214-219-2290 www.thedancecouncil.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=752324&module_id=32933
wed 11Crazy Catapults 1:00-2:00pm. This hands-on STEM program focuses on motion and forces. Build three different catapults and test them in friend-ly competitions! Limited to the first 20 participants going into grades 1-5. Free tickets will be available 30 minutes before start time. Lakewood Branch Library, 6121 Worth St., Dallas, 214 670-1376
fri 13Stuart Little at the Dallas Children’s Theater Jun 13-Jul 13. Another E. B. White classic! It’s big excitement for a little mouse when Stuart leaves his human family in New York and travels across the country in search of the bird that helped save his life. A charming story that proves great things can come in small packages. Enjoyed by ages 5 and up. Matinee & Evening Performances, visit the website for specific dates/show times. Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, 214.740-0051 www.dct.org
Third Monday Trade Days Jun 13-15, 8am-5pm. Third Monday Trade Days in McKinney is the oldest and largest monthly trade days/flea market in North Texas with roots back to the old county-wide market that began in the 1870’s. It is located in the historic Buckner Community which was the first County Seat of Collin County, 2 miles west of US75 on US380 (also known as University Drive). Trade Days Grounds, 4550 W University Dr, McKinney, 972-562-5466 www.tmtd.com
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www.facebook.com/mistystagnonephotography • 214.934.1184
sat 14KIXPO 2014 2-7pm. KIXPO, the world’s largest sneaker and street wear expo, is back for 2014. Lock in your spot early and witness some the best sneaker collections, sneaker customizers, sneaker vendors, and apparel brands in the country. Doors open at 2pm. Tickets available online. Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, 500 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, www.eventbrite.com/e/kixpo-dallas-2014-tickets-10680663151?aff=eac2
mon 16SP Summer Chess Camp at UT Dallas Jun 16-20. Join beginner,
intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-13. 9am-noon or 1-4pm and extended playing classes available. Other sessions July 14-18 and July 21-25. Register at www.utdallas.edu/chess. For more info, call 972-883-4899 or email [email protected]. See ad in this issue.
DSM Summer Musical-Theater Classes Mon-Fri 1:15pm-4:15pm, Ages 7-12. Selections from THE PIED PIPER OF POSSUM KINGDOM- Performance June 28, 12:45pm Hall of State Theatre, Fair Park, 909 First Ave., Dallas 75210 Town North YMCA, 4332 Northaven Rd., Dallas, 214-969-7469 www.dsmschool.org/dsmschool/2010/calendar.html
DSM Summer Musical-Theater Classes Mon-Fri, 9:00am-12:00pm, Ages 7-12. Selections from SEUSSICAL. Performance will be June 28, Noon Hall of State Theatre, Fair Park, 3939 Grand Ave., Dallas 75210 Park Cities YMCA, 6000 Preston Road, Dallas, 214-969-7469 www.dsmschool.org/dsm-school/2010/calendar.html
KidSwing Golf Tournaments Jun 16 – July 14 KidSwing is a 9-hole, best-ball scramble for players ages 7 to 18. There is no entry fee, but participants are asked to raise $100 through family and friends who sponsor them. Three tournaments! • KidSwing-Dallas Mon, Jun 16, Brookhaven Country Club 3333 Golfing Green Drive, Dallas • KidSwing-McKinney, Tue, Jun 24, Stonebridge Ranch Country Club – The Hills Course 5901 Glen Oaks Drive McKinney • KidSwing-Trophy Club, Mon, July 14, 500 Trophy Club Drive Trophy Club. Registration via www.KidSwing.org or call 214-559-7656 for more info.
fri 20Late Nights at the Dallas Museum of Art Jun 20-Nov 21, 6:00pm-12:00am. Free admission and special activities. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood, Dallas, www.dallasmuseumofart.org
sat 21Climb Out of the Darkness 10:30am-1:30pm. Climb Out of the Dark-ness is the annual awareness raising and fundraising event for Postpartum Progress, a nonprofit focused on supporting pregnant and new moms with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders like postpartum depression, post-partum anxiety, postpartum OCD, postpartum psychosis and pregnancy depression. It’s free to join our climb, but there is a $6 admission fee to the trails. There is a 1/2 mile ADA approved hike that we will be starting with. This trail allows strollers and is a good walk for anyone who doesn’t want to join or can’t join the longer 1 2/3 hike that will come next. Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, 1206 F.M. 1382, Cedar Hill, 214-801-5899 www.crowdrise.com/kohnigonzalez-cotd2014/fundraiser/kohnigonzalez
Shoelace Tying Story Time at Bookmarks 9:00-9:30am. Join us for our special shoelace-tying story time as part of Nordstrom’s monthly shoe-lace-tying workshop!! This class is designed for little ones learning this im-portant skill, complete with a free lacing card with which to practice and a special certificate!!!!The monthly classes take place at 9:00 a.m. on the third Saturday of the month, in Nordstrom Northpark Kids’ Shoe Department (3rd floor). Bookmarks in NorthPark Center, 8687 North Central Expressway, Dallas, www.dallaslibrary2.org
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All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.
Highland Park Library4700 Drexel Dr., 214-559-9400
Wed – Lapsit Story Time 4:30pm, ages 6mos up to 2 yrs. Thur – Toddler Story Time 4:30 pm; ages 18 mos-3yrs Fri - Preschool Story Time 4:30pm, ages 3-6yrs
University Park Library3800 University Blvd, 214-363-9095
Wed – Preschoolers Story Time 4pm, age 4-5yrsThur – Preschoolers Story Time 10:45am
Fretz Park Branch Library6990 Belt Line Road, 214-670-6421
Fri – Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 2-4 yrs
Renner Frankford Branch6400 Frankford Road, 214-670-6100
Tue – Preschool Story Time 10:30am , ages 2-4yrs. Tue – Infant/Toddler Story Time 11:15am(1st-3rd Tue), ages 4mos-18mos. Tue – Pre-School Story Time 10:30am (4th Tue), ages 2-4yrs
Bookmarks (at North Park Mall)8687 N. Central Expressway, Suite 1514, 214-671-1381Mon – NorthCourt - Baby Bounce Basics 10:30am, age 0-2yr Mon - Inside Bookmarks - Baby Bounce Basics 12:30, age 0-2yr (Weekly Mon & Fri). Wed - NorthCourt – Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 2-4yrs Thur - NorthCourt - Pre-School Story Time 10:30am, ages 2-4yrs. Thur - Steps inside Bookmarks – Preschool Story time 3:30pm
Lakewood Branch Library6121 Worth Street, 214-670-1376Wed - Pre-School Story Time 10:30am, ages 2-4yrs
Audelia Road Branch Library10045 Audelia Road, 214-670-1350 Fri - Pre-School Story Time 10:30am, ages 2-4yrs
Preston Royal Branch5626 Royal Lane, 214-670-7128Tue (2nd Tue) – Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 2-4yrs
Your Community Story Times
SPACES ARE FILLING!
mon 23SP Enchanted Ballet Camps Jun 23-27, 10:00am-12:00pm. Enchanted
Ballet Camps for ages 3-6. Ballet, craft time, videos, story time, snacks and more. 214-377-8576 Texas Ballet Theater School, 670 N Coit Rd, Richardson, texasballettheater.org See ad in this issue.
tue 24Music and Stories with KidsWorks 11:00am-12:00pm. Grab the kiddos for a storytelling session in the park! Cute stories and fun tunes for little ones presented by Miss Kimberly. Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Frwy, Dallas, www.klydewarrenpark.org
fri 27Dallas Theater Center Presents Les Miserables“Do you hear the people sing?” The most popular musical in the world takes over the Wyly Theatre with its glorious music and heartfelt story. In this thrill-ing new DTC production you will be immersed in this beloved story in a way you’ve never experienced it before: surrounded by the passion of the French revolution; engulfed by the romantic music; and overwhelmed by the expe-rience of hope, redemption & forgiveness. Recommended for ages 10 and above. Matinee & evening performances, visit the website for specific dates/show times. Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St., Dallas, www.dallastheatercenter.org
sat 28Lakewood Library Book Discussion Group 3:30-4:30pm. This group meets every 4th Saturday of the month and reads award-winning literature. Please contact the Lakewood Library for details about the book of the month. Lakewood Branch Library, 6121 Worth St., Dallas, 214.670-1376 www.dallaslibrary2.org
Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates & times, confirm-ing with the event venue before going is always a good idea. SP
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Summer Safety Slip-ups
No big deal, you think—so what if my child doesn’t want to wear his helmet. He can go for a bike ride without it just this once. Or you get caught up in
conversation at a pool party instead of keeping an eye on your toddler.
It’s no surprise that accidents happen, even when we’re trying to be careful. But because we’re outside more and the days are longer, summer can be an especially dangerous time. According to SafeKids Worldwide, there’s an 89 percent increase in children drowning in the summer months and a 45 percent surge in bike-riding deaths.
Fortunately, turning your child’s summer into a safety zone is a matter of making a few pre-cautionary tweaks. Here are some small risks you might be taking that can lead to big problems, and our top tips for avoiding them.
Slip-up: Leaving your child in the car. Each year, 38 children die from heat stroke after being left unattended in motor vehicles, according to Kidsandcars.org. The inside of a car can heat up quickly—to as high as 122 degrees F in less than 20 minutes on an especially hot day. Moreover, young children overheat faster than adults because they’re less able to regulate their body temperature.
Play it safe: Never leave your child in the car, even with the windows “cracked,” or even just for a few minutes. And keep in mind that a change in routine or a bad night’s sleep can easily lead to the unthinkable—driving to work with your sleeping baby in the car and forgetting that it’s your day to drop her off at daycare. To help you remember that your baby is in the car, put a soft toy in the front seat. Or
secure something you need, such as a purse or backpack, in the backseat near your baby. Also, get in the habit of checking to make sure that everyone has exited the car when you get to your destination and lock car doors when you leave so a curious toddler can’t climb in your car when you’re not looking. Keep your car keys out of your child’s reach too.
Slip-up: Keeping tiki oil within your child’s reach. Toddlers and older kids are drawn to any-thing that looks like juice. Tiki oil, which is used more in the summer to light tiki torches, comes in different colors, such as purple, blue and red, and can easily be upturned and ingested. In addition to being poisonous, “Kids can swallow it or breathe it into their lungs, causing aspiration pneumonitis, which can be fatal,” says Rose Ann Soloway, R.N., a clinical toxicologist at the Na-tional Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C.
Play it safe: Store tiki oil in its original container out of your child’s sight and reach, in a locked cabinet just like you do medicine and vitamins. The same goes for gasoline, charcoal lighter fluid, antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. These containers don’t have child-resis-tant caps. If you believe your child has ingested something potentially poisonous, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Do this instead of heading directly to a hospital emergency room or call 911—you’ll get the fastest advice on how to handle the situation.
Slip-up: Assuming someone else is watching the kids. “At pool parties, many parents assume somebody else is watching. Mom assumes Dad’s watching. Dad assumes Mom’s watching and it’s easy to get distracted,” says Phyllis F. Agran,
M.D., M.P.H., professor emeritus of pediatrics at the UCI School of Medicine, in Irvine, California. Even a few unsupervised minutes in the water can be deadly for a young child.
Play it safe: Assign a supervisor. One of you needs to be officially on duty and concentrating on your child. Don’t think it’s enough to make your older kids, who are having fun too, keep an eye on your younger ones. Make that supervisor your spouse or another adult.
Slip-up: Letting your older child ride his bike without a helmet. Studies show that kids ages 11 to 15 tend to wear helmets less often than younger ones.
Play it safe: Be on helmet patrol. A bike helmet can reduce the risk of bicycle-related traumatic brain injury by up to 88 percent. So, of course, you’ll want to make sure everyone—you included—are protected with a properly fitted helmet whenever you ride. Keep on your older child to always wear one.
Slip-up: Keeping the wading pool filled. “Young kids can drown in an inch of water or less,” says Dren-genberg, so don’t think the water in your child’s baby pool is harmless.
Play it safe: “Dump the wading pool when you’re done with it,” Drengenberg says. “And turn it upside down so it doesn’t catch rain water.” In fact, empty all outdoor containers of water after use, including five-gallon buckets and insulated coolers; they’re a formidable drowning hazard. SP
BY SANDRA GORDON
To Advertise in Dallas Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Dallas Parent | 21
+ activity R E S O U R C E S
Dallas Summer Musicals1-800-982-ARTS (2787)www.dallassummermusicals.org
Dance Council of North Texaswww.thedancecouncil.org
Destination Science1-888-909-2822www.destinationscience.org
Dinosaur World254-898-1526www.dinosaurworld.com
Episcopal School of Dallaswww.esdallas.org
Headstart of Greater Dallas972-283-6400www.hsgd.org
Highland Park Presbyterian Day School214-525-6500www.hppds.org
Holy Trinity Academy972-490-7060www.holytrinityacademy.com
Kumon214-808-8922, www.kumon.com
Music School International972-661-9061www.msidallas.com
Parish Episcopal School972-852-8752www.parishepiscopal.org
The Pines Catholic Campwww.thepines.org
Prestonwood Music Studio214-226-2389www.PrestonMusicStudio.com
SeaLife Aquariumwww.visitsealife.com/grapevine
Scofield Christian School214-349-6843www.scofieldchristian.org
St. Monica Catholic School214-351-5688www.stmonicaschool.org
The Sugar and Spice Ranch Camp830-460-8487www.texashorsecamps.com
Texas Ballet Theater School214-377-8576www.texasballettheater.org
UTD Chess Camp972-883-4899www.utdallas.edu/chess
Wesley Prep214-706-9568www.wesleyprep.org
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AUTUMN4 Years Old • June 14
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mecaldwell.tsfl.com
facebook.com/SeaWorldBuschGardensCamps
So, imagine you’re living at SeaWorld. You wake up to find sea lions
doing laps in the pool. Your swimming instructors are dolphins. You
party with the world’s most exotic birds and tropical fish. And your
backyard is filled with incredible rides and slides. This summer, your
child can have it all. That’s what being a camper here is all about.
REGISTER NOW!SeaWorld San Antonio resident camps
are for 5th through 12th grade.SeaWorldSanAntonio.com
(800) 700-7786
Summer Camp.IT’S IN OUR NATURE.
*Program components, pricing and availability subject to change Copyright © 2014 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. All rights reserved.
Back on the Chain Gang
Do you want to know the difference be-tween me supervising my children doing yard work and prison guards supervising convicts working the chain gang? Prison
guards are armed. I, on the other hand, have only my Yelling Voice and what’s left of my sanity to protect me.
It’s another summer and I have the opportunity to teach my children the value of an honest days work. And they, of course, have the opportunity to take me down to my knees.
Each summer starts the same way. Roughly three days before school is out, I make a big speech about the family pulling together to keep the yard looking nice for the neighbors to enjoy. I say things like, “A family that weeds together, eats together.” And, “I don’t want to see anyone kicking the tops of the weeds off this year.”
It may not shock some of you, but my children could care less if their mom and I, the neighbors, or anyone else “enjoys” our yard this summer. In fact, my son wanted to send a flyer around the block announcing that the Swarner’s were going “environmental” this year and would let nature take it’s course. He even drew a picture of our house with brown grass and weeds large enough to shade small woodland animals.
Without their buy-in, I tend to play the role of grumpy foreman. My oldest son needs constant supervision. I’m forever sticking my head out the back door yelling: “Get back to work!”
“I am,” he’ll argue.“You are?” I’ll reply. “I can see you sun tanning on the roof of the shed you
know. It might be easier to pull the weeds if you were closer to the ground.”
My daughter is the opposite. She just cries. She also says I am unfair to
make her weed.“My friends don’t have to pull weeds like
me!” she’ll say.“That’s true,” I told her the other day. “That
would be weird if I made your friends pull our weeds.”When she does get to work, our conversations go like this.
Daughter: Dad, I’m done weeding my area.Me: (Inspecting) What about that weed?Daughter: What weed?! I don’t see any weeds. Where do you see a weed?Me: (Pointing) There - blocking the window. My youngest son is seven. I am lucky if I can keep him on task for five
minutes. I’ll send him out to do a quick and easy weeding job and a half hour later he walks into the house with a gob of doggie doo-doo on a stick. “Look what I found, dad. I think this dog ate a dish towel.”
I suppose I’d like my children to have had the experience of pulling to-gether as a family for a common goal. I want them to know that being part of a group requires everyone to do their fair share.
At least, that’s what I told my children yesterday when I found them in the backyard sitting in lawn chairs with a box of frozen treats and ten of the little neighborhood kids weeding our rose beds.
Son: But dad, they want to do our work in exchange for Otter Pops.Yep, it’s going to be another fun summer of supervising the children.
Whose kidding whom? I think I’ll hire a landscaper. <sigh> SP
Jim Schmitt
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facebook.com/SeaWorldBuschGardensCamps
So, imagine you’re living at SeaWorld. You wake up to find sea lions
doing laps in the pool. Your swimming instructors are dolphins. You
party with the world’s most exotic birds and tropical fish. And your
backyard is filled with incredible rides and slides. This summer, your
child can have it all. That’s what being a camper here is all about.
REGISTER NOW!SeaWorld San Antonio resident camps
are for 5th through 12th grade.SeaWorldSanAntonio.com
(800) 700-7786
Summer Camp.IT’S IN OUR NATURE.
*Program components, pricing and availability subject to change Copyright © 2014 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. All rights reserved.