metrofamily magazine march 2011

March 2011

Celebrate Spring Break

with camps, activities and a day trip to

Alabaster CavernsIs it okay to be a “good enough” mom?

• Problem-solving products for baby

• Local early education opportunities to help promote your child's school success

• Protect your child from identity theft

metrofamilymagazine.com

Here comes

FIND OUT MOREK12 is America’s leader in delivering high quality, tuition-free, public online schooling for grades 1–11. K12 programs are available in Oklahoma through the Oklahoma Virtual Academy.

�Enrollment�for�grades�1–11�for�the�2011–2012�school�year�is�now�open,��but�you�only�have�until�April�1.�Find�complete�details�and�a�list�of�upcoming�events,�including�Discovery�Days,�at��K12.com/OK.

IS YOUR CHILD THRIVING IN SCHOOL?

Online public schooling means you have choices.Sometimes, an individualized approach is what it takes to unlock a child’s full potential. With the support of passionate, experienced teachers, online schooling offers today’s students an interactive, media-rich, individualized education that meets their specific learning needs.

Learn more about this partner school in Oklahoma at an upcoming event. Call 866.339.9074 for details.

K12.com/OK�

March 2011|www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com 3

www.lapetite.com*Available at participating locations only. Rules and restrictions apply. See school for 0-5-year-old and 6-12-year-old summer offer details and restrictions. Sessions, programs, field trips, and hours vary by school. CODE: Use current summer offer disclaimers and code(s).

Enroll Now for Summer and Get One Week

FREE!*

• Flexibleschedulingforyou andagreatsummerforthem!

•Sessionsinartsandcrafts, sports,music,andmore*

•Guests,activitiesandfield tripstomakeeverydayfun*

It’s everything you want for your child, and more!•Perfectforchildrenages6-12 andgreatforyoungerones too(6weeks-5years)*

See how much fun your child can have!•They’llalsobelearningwith ourschoolreadinessprogram

Adventures in Fun.Give your children the best summer ever!

For details call 866-961-7591tolocateaschoolnearyouandtoscheduleavisit.

LPA S11 Metro Family 7.25x4.75.indd 1 2/11/11 10:13 AM

Design Tech Workshop—June 6-10Ages 13-18. Hands-on projects and classes in lighting, sound, costumes, props and sets.

High School Drama Workshop—June 13-17 “Into the Woods, Jr.”Ages 13-18. Classes in props, music, movement and acting.

Drama Day Camp 1—June 20-24“Jungle Book Kids”Ages 7-12. Classes in acting, make up, scenery, props, movement and music.

Drama Day Camp II— July 11-15 “Music Man, Jr.”Ages 7-12. Classes in acting, make up, scenery, props, movement and music.

Drama Day Camp III—July 25-29 “Aladdin, Jr.”Ages 7-12. Classes in acting, make up, scenery, props, movement and music.

All Drama productions presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.

Flute Camp—June 6-9Ages 11-15. Daily master classes, music theory, flute choir and performance opportunities.

Dance Workshop—June 13-17Ages 8 and up. An intensive workshop with classes in all forms of dance.

Jazz Guitar Workshop—June 14-16 All ages. One year experience, master classes taught by Danny Vaughan.

Strings Chamber Music Camp—July 18-22, Placement Auditions on July 17Ages 9 to18. Daily small group and ensemble opportunities. Young musician, intermediate and advanced tracks available.

Summer Choral Institute—July 12-16 April Auditions – see website for dates/locationsOpen to all high school freshmen—juniors. Invited students receive a scholarship and spend a week at UCO in master classes, rehearsals and performance.

Graphic Design Workshop I & II July 11-19 & 20-29Open to high school juniors and seniors. An intensive overview of graphic design with hands-on projects and professional site visits. Level II participants gain in-depth knowledge and college preparatory skills. Taught by UCO Design Chair and professors. Level I must be completed to enroll in Level II.

Interior Design Workshop—July 11-19Open to high school juniors and seniors. An intensive overview of interior design with hands-on projects and professional site visits. Participants are taught by UCO professors and gain an overview of the profession.

SUMMER ARTS CAMPSMUSIC/DANCE DESIGNTHEATRE ARTS MUSIC/DANCE DESIGNTHEATRE ARTS

www.ocae.net • Early Bird Discounts if enrolled by April 30 • 405-974-3754

Strings Chamber Music Camp—July 18-22, Placement Auditions on July 17Ages 9 to18. Daily small group and ensemble opportunities. Young musician, intermediate and

Summer Choral Institute—July 12-16

Open to all high school freshmen—juniors. Invited students receive a scholarship and spend a week at UCO in master classes, rehearsals and performance.

overview of interior design with hands-on projects and professional site visits. Participants are taught by professional site visits. Participants are taught by UCO professors and gain an overview of the UCO professors and gain an overview of the profession.

olled by April 30 • 405-974-3754olled by April 30 • 405-974-3754

U N I V E R S I T Y O F C E N T R A L O K L A H O M A

4 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com|March 2011

JointheFunwithMetroFamily

1Where do metro parents click for all the family news in the area? It’s metrofamilymagazine.com, your one source for all things local and related to your family! Finishing touches are being made to our NEW website, launching with

a new look and great new features and content! Check it out daily! And join us on Facebook (facebook.com/metrofamily) and Twitter (twitter.com/metrofamily).

2Now’s the time to sign up for our soon-to-launch Mother Lode deals program. This project will offer subscribers the opportunity to buy the local family products and services you love or want to love at 50% discounts and more!

You must be subscribed so do it TODAY! metrofamilymagazine.com/mother-lode.

3Oh happy day.... Spring is here! Find all sorts of Spring Break activity ideas, both local and around the state, in this issue and at metrofamilymagazine.com. Our in-print and online calendars also list many ideas for daily family

fun, whether it's spring break or not. And by March 15th our very popular Easter Activities List will be loaded on our website. Take advantage of these fun activities and happy Spring from MetroFamily Magazine.

4Spring may have just arrived, but it's already time to plan for SUMMER! Next month’s MetroFamily features Summer Camps and Activities, one of our most popular issues of the year. Contact us today to find out how to

have your camp or activity advertised and listed in our all-important summer camp guide. Deadline for the April issue is March 17th so call 405-601-2081 or email [email protected] TODAY!

Enterourcontests

You could win big!

Sign up to be eligible for these great prizes at

metrofamilymagazine.com/contests• Two sets of two tickets each to hear the

“EntreLeadership” simulcast by Dave Ramsey in OKC on April 1. Deadline March 11.

• Two sets of four VIP tickets to Sesame Street Live! Elmo's Healthy Heroes on March 25, 10:30am. Deadline March 17.

• Our monthly FS Giveaway featuring many items for babies and valued over $500. Deadline March 17.

• A fantastic package of baby items from OKC’s Green Bambino retail store, valued at $125. Deadline March 31.

Refresh.Coming soon: Our NEW website, complete with all the features you love about MetroFamily and many new ones.

Launching in a web browser near you....



Cover Model: Nine-month-old Teni is the son of Jide and Lawunmi Femuagun of South OKC.

Mom Lawunmi reports that Teni is a laid back, happy baby who loves to play.

PHOTO BY Randy Coleman Photography, OKC • randycolemanphotography.com.

March201134 Calendar

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment

6 Dear MetroFamilyEditor’s Note

32 Exploring OklahomaSpelunking anyone? Discover family adventure at Alabaster Caverns

28 Family Finances Tips for protecting your children from identify theft

8 Family ShortsCommunity news and parenting resources

24 Focus on EducationLocal programs that make a difference in early-childhood education

26 Oklahoma Reads Book reviews for all ages and interests

46 Photo GalleryOur readers share photos of their beautiful babies plus meet the OKC Barons MetroFamily Fan of the Game

20 Real Moms of the MetroMeet Chandra Boyd: wife, mom and arts enthusiast

30 Your Healthy FamilyMRSA: What you need to know to protect your family

22 Read how CASA of Oklahoma

County—the benefi ciary of the 2011 Redbud Classic—impacts children in desperate need of support

40 Spring break is coming! What are you

planning for the kids? Check our listing for great ideas.

Is it okay to be a “good enough”

mom? Learn how moms are affected by maternal ambivalence, societal pressures, perfectionism and guilt—and what to do about it.

16


InfoAndQuestions: 405-601-2081Tosubmiteventstoourcalendar [email protected]

PublisherSarah L. Taylor

[email protected]

EditorMari M. Farthing

[email protected]

ArtDirectorMitzi Massie

[email protected]

AdvertisingSalesAthena Delce

Dana PriceAmy Lou Tuzicka

[email protected]

OfficeandDistributionManagerKathy Alberty

[email protected]

AssistantEditor&calendarBrooke Barnett

[email protected]

SpecialProjectsAssistantTerri Fields

EditorialInternJulie Dill

contributingWritersBrooke Barnett, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields,

Karen Mitchell, Sue Lynn Sassercirculation

35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, YukonAlso available as a digital edition at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com.Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect

the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamilyMagazineispublishedmonthlyby Inprint Publishing, Inc.

725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103Fax: (405) 445-7509

E-mail: [email protected]

©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2011, All Rights Reserved.Volume 14, Number 2

Dear MetroFamily readers,

So, are you ready for spring? I know that I am, because February has not been my favorite month this year. Usually the ups outweigh the downs but this month has been the exception to that rule. But, hopefully, we got that out of the way and the rest of 2011 can be filled with happiness.

Winter hit the metro in a big way this year, and even though I’m a snow-loving mommy from up north, I had more than my fair share of the white stuff and the cold temperatures. I was thankful when the fickle Oklahoma weather turned on a dime and we were driving down the road with the windows open even as the drifts were melting.

It’s also left me thankful for warmer temperatures—and spring break! It’s just around the corner and you’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for ideas, because we’ve got our spring break listing ready (see page 34).

And we tackle a difficult topic this month—maternal ambivalence. If you struggle sometimes with motherhood, first, know that you are not alone, and second, turn to page 16 to learn more about how to handle these tough feelings.

And finally, we also introduce a new feature this month, with our local education column. Written by National Board Certified teacher Julie Dill of OKC, this column is where you will find the topics that impact your family’s education.

Until next month!

Cheers!

Photos, from top: The kids at the Barons game at the end of January; the shovel brigade takes out the three-foot snow drift in our street; and making snow angels in the yard, mid-February.

Cheers!

P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.


Spring Break Art CampsMonday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

March 14-18, OKC Fairgrounds

Camp tuition is $150.Before and aftercare available

for an additional $6 a day.

Camps for 5—13 year olds!

Scholarships available!

Call or visit us online, 951-0000

www.cityartscenter.org

Sign Up for SUMMERand Get One Free Week!*

•Scheduling flexibility for you…a great summer for them•Special sessions in arts and crafts, sports, music, and more*•Special guests, unique activities and field trips to make every day fun*• Perfect for school-age children (6-12 years) and great for younger ones (6 weeks-5 years), too*•Shhh…don’t tell them they’ll also be learning with our special school readiness program

See how much fun your child can have! For details call 877-299-9089

to locate a school near you and schedule a visit.

Smiles, learning and quality care.It’s everything you want for your child, and more!

www.childtime.com

*Available at participating locations only. Rules and restrictions apply. See school for 0-5-year-old and 6-12-year-old summer offer details and restrictions. Sessions, programs, field trips, and hours vary by school. CODE: Use current summer offer disclaimers and code(s).

CT S11 Metro Family 3.5x4.75.indd 1 2/10/11 8:23 AM

Celebrating a New Arrivalin Edmond Women’s Health

We proudly announce the opening of the Women’s Health Center of Edmond. Dr. Brant Buchinger and Dr. Michelle Seavey welcome you to their practice. Both offer comprehensive care for all your OBGYN

needs and have a passion for your overall well being. Please call 405-341-1557 for an appointment.

HowDoYouDealWithParentingStress?The house is a mess, the kids are one second away from tears, you have three loads of laundry to do and you have no idea what to cook for dinner. You’d take the family out to eat, but your car keys have mysteriously disappeared—possibly along with your sanity. Sound familiar?

Stress seems a natural part of parenting, but there are many effective ways to deal with it and turn a challenging situation into a positive one. Our February Question of the Month asked you to share your #1 tip for dealing with stress and we were inspired and impressed with your varied and creative answers.

Nearly 30 percent of you told us that taking time for yourself or time away from the family helped you keep stress in check. For many of you, using prayer, meditation or other spiritual beliefs were the key to inner peace and relaxation. The next biggest categories of suggestions focused around picking your battles and refocusing priorities; connecting with friends and loved ones for support; taking a hot bath or indulging in another activity you enjoy; and remembering the importance of exercise and other self care.

Kathy L. of Shawnee is all about keeping priorities in check: “Take some time to relax, and think about what is causing the stress, and try to come up with a way to relieve that stress, maybe journal it.”

Rachel H. of Choctaw has a humorous take on stress relief: “I give myself a timeout. Sometimes I even give myself a glass of wine.”

Sara G. of Oklahoma City takes an active and fun approach: “Putting on music and dancing with baby. We both love it! Calms and relaxes us both.”

Megan K of Newcastle is all about clearing the air to reduce stress: “Communicate. If I talk to my family then they usually help me relax. We discuss our good things and bad things over dinner and that helps my children understand what it means to be respectful and comforting.”

Stacy M of Edmond takes a philosophical approach: “I remember that they are only little once and to take each day as a blessing! One day you will wish these days back!”

Finally, Betsy H. of Oklahoma City left us laughing with her stress relief priorities: “Prayer & chocolate, in that order”

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/reader-response-march-2011 to see all the great stress relief techniques suggested by our readers.


QuestionoftheMonth

How will your kids spend summer break?

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/fs-giveaway to answer this question and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $500. This month, our package includes many baby items. Deadline to enter is Thursday, March 17.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website.

The full contents of the prize package are listed with the entry form. A winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. The winner agrees to pick up items from the MetroFamily office, 725 NW 11th, Oklahoma City.

29%

11% 15%9%

8%7% 2%

8%

14%

■ 67 Time Away / Time for Self■ 33 Prayer/Meditation/Call on Spiritual Beliefs■ 31 Pick Your Battles/Refocus Priorities■ 25 Connect with Friends/Family/Support Group■ 20 Read a Book/Hot Bath/Other Activity You Enjoy■ 17 Exercise/Self Care■ 13 Date Night with Spouse/Signi�cant Other■ 5 Doing Something Fun with Kids/Turn on a

Movie/Other Distraction■ 18 Other

Total Responses: 229

Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Julie Dill, Mari Farthing

GetYourKidsReadingReading can be a difficult skill for young children to learn, which can make a reluctant reader out of a child who was formerly enthusiastic about books. When your children begin to show an interest in independent reading, here are some tips to encourage them:

• Model the behavior. Make a conscious effort for your child to witness you reading.

• Book baskets. A handy container with frequently rotated, themed or seasonal titles will always offer you child a fresh option.

• Allow free exploration. Especially for toddlers, allow them to explore board books by turning pages and looking at pictures independently.

• Shared reading. Take turns with your child reading aloud. This makes a great transition when a child is ready to “graduate” to chapter books.

• Book discussions. Be open to your chid’s opinion. Even at a young age, allow them to express their opinions of favorite books and authors.

• Make the connection. While reading with your child, ask open-ended questions to guide them towards making a personal connection with the story. For example, if you’re reading a book about horses, ask them to recall the last time they saw a horse.

• Reread favorites. Hearing a specific story over and over again can support language development.

• Have fun. Above all, enjoy reading with your child! Like anything else, they can sense your attitude when you engage in these activities.

It is easier to do a job

right than to explain why you

didn’t~ Martin Van

Buren

CharacterCorner:DependabilityBeing dependable means that you are responsible to others. When family members are dependable, they garner praise from other family members and are rewarded with more responsibility.

To promote dependability in your home:• Commit to support one another even through times of

financial or personal hardship.• Fulfill promises made to one another—parents provide for

children, children complete school work, all family members help one another to avoid making promises that cannot be kept.

Encourage dependability in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

I will:... keep my word.... be careful what I promise.... correct my mistakes.... pull my share of the load.... not have a bad attitude.

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources. To learn more, call 405-815-0001 or visit characterfirst.com.

Problem-SolversWhen we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers and visit metrofamilymagazine.com/baby-products for more reviews.

Problem:You want a better baby bottle.Solution:The Pura Kiki stainless steel bottle ($16) is toxin-free, dishwasher-safe and virtually unbreakable. (purastainless.com)

Problem:The baby won’t look at the camera when it’s picture time.Solution:The Shutter Buddy ($15) straps onto virtually any camera, drawing your baby’s eye. (shutter-buddy.com)

Problem:The bib makes a bigger mess than the food does!Solution:Sillybibs silicone baby bibs ($18) is adjustable and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a snap. (ulubulu.com)

Problem:You have five different diaper bags for different needs. Shouldn’t it be easier?Solution:The Clic It Diaper Bag ($50) has accessories ($5+) such as zipper pouches and bottle holders that click on—and off—as needed. (clicitbag.com)

Problem:You need help to get the medicine to go down.Solution:The Sippy Sure ($9) is a sippy cup with a medicine dispenser built-in to help when your child is not feeling well. (sippysure.com)

Problem:Bathtime = huge mess time.Solution:The Stay-Dry Bath Apron and Towel ($20) helps keep mom dry during the bath and can be used as a towel to dry baby after. (weefive.com)

FolicAcidandPregnancyThrough a study funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Parul Christian from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health found that when mothers were given iron and B9 vitamin (folic acid) supplements during pregnancy, children were smarter, more organized and had better fine motor skills.

“Iron is essential for the development of the central nervous system,” said Christian, whose study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency is the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world, affecting two billion people. Early iron deficiency can interfere with nerve development and metabolism, hampering both intellectual and fine motor development.

J. Brant Buchinger, MD, Obstetrics & Gynecology at Women’s Health Center of Edmond, agrees with these findings. “Everyone needs [folic acid], which can be found naturally in certain foods, added to or ‘enriched’ in other foods and in many vitamins,” says Buchinger. He advocates folic acid as an affordable supplement that’s easy to take and helps to prevent major birth defects in a developing baby. The average recommended amount of folic acid is 400-800 micrograms per day, but that amount is general, and individuals may have specific needs for more. “You should speak with your doctor about the right dose for your situation,” advises Buchinger. He also recommends that women “ensure that your diet has adequate levels of folic acid well before pregnancy.”

The bib makes a bigger mess than

($18) is adjustable and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a snap. (ulubulu.com)



GetOutside&Play!Held March 14-21, National Wildlife Week is part of the National Wildlife Foundation’s BE OUT THERE campaign, designed to get kids outside more often, spending time in nature.

“National Wildlife Week is a great time for families to explore the wild around them so kids will understand why it's called the great outdoors,” said Mary Burnette, Associate Director of Communications at the National Wildlife Federation.

This year’s theme is Animals that Move Us. Kids can log in to nwf.org/nationalwildlifeweek and learn about the different species and participate in a habitat or other conservation service project. Downloadable resources are available to use at home or at school, including a Family Activity Passport and other fun activities.

Backyard Safari Outfitters has developed a line of toys that can make exploring your backyard even more fun. The Base Camp Shelter ($40) and Camouflage Netting ($15) will create the perfect home-away-from-home to study wildlife close-up. The Expedition One Compass ($15) will help you find your way. And if the weather prevents you from getting outside, kids can still enjoy the Butterfly Habitat ($15), which comes with a coupon that can be used to order insects for studying. Then when the weather turns, take the habitat outside and release the butterflies. Visit backyardsafari.com to learn more about these products.

If you’re looking to branch out beyond your own backyard, the Metro area has a wide variety of parks and natural areas that are easily accessible and ready for exploration. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/outdoor-fun for information on our top ten recommended local outdoor areas for family fun.

2011MarchforBabiesAmbassadorFamilyThe Cross family of Oklahoma City serves as this year’s March for Babies Ambassador Family for Oklahoma, and they hope their story will encourage others to support the important work of the March of Dimes.

At 28 weeks of pregnancy, Shannon Cross started experiencing unusual labor pains. When she and husband Ryan reached the ER, her contractions were coming every two minutes and doctors confirmed she was in labor. The babies were given Surfactant to help with prenatal lung development. Despite efforts to prevent their early delivery, Haley and Cadence were born via cesarean section two days later. The girls were only 14.5 inches and less than three pounds each.

In the NICU, each twin was given her own team of doctors, nurses and equipment. The couple was finally able to hold Cadence for the first time two weeks after birth, and Haley an additional two weeks later. Cadence was released from the hospital six weeks after birth, and Haley after two and a half months.

Today, the twins are six years old and are enjoying kindergarten. Though born the smallest twin, Haley is now the tallest kid in her class. Both girls love to play soccer and video games, and have

virtually no lasting effects from their prematurity. “The March of Dimes has directly impacted our family through their research of drugs such as Surfactant,” said Ryan Cross. “The Surfactant helped to ensure that they had healthier lungs so that they were strong enough to fight through some of the other issues of prematurity.”

The March of Dimes’s March for Babies works to prevent birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. The Oklahoma City March is scheduled for Saturday, May 7 at the State Fairgrounds, at 8:00am. In Stillwater, the March will take place on Saturday, April 30 at Boomer Park at 10:00am. The Norman March is scheduled for Saturday, May 21 at Andrews Park at 4:00pm. Farmer’s Insurance and Bank of Oklahoma (BOK) are this year’s presenting sponsors, and John Higginbotham from BOK is the walk chair.

Find more information, call 405-943-1025 or visit marchforbabies.org.

The Cross family today: Morgan (age 3), Ryan, Haley (age 6), Cadence (age 6), Shannon, and Rylie (10 weeks).

ScoutsSeekingVolunteersGirl Scouts-Western Oklahoma needs volunteers. Currently, there are just under 300 girls unable to be placed in troops due to a lack of adult volunteers. Volunteer opportunities exist in the following communities:

• The Village (OKC)• Lawton (includes Sterling, Fletcher, Elgin, Walters and Apache)• Midwest City• Moore• Norman (includes Noble, Little Axe, Purcell and Lexington)• Yukon/Mustang• Choctaw (includes Nicoma Park, Harrah, Jones and McLoud)“There are girls in other communities also who want to be Girl Scouts,” Davis said. “For example, we know that there is an interest in El Reno and we would be able to recruit more girls there if we had more adult volunteers. Once we have the volunteers in place, we can then offer the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to many more girls.”

“We hope everyone interested in being a volunteer will review the list where we have a need for volunteers and find one that fits their schedule and level of interest,” Davis said. “Our goal is to make volunteering with Girl Scouts as easy and accessible as possible. Once the volunteer application is returned to us and we can do review work, we can get a girl involved in Girl Scouts immediately.”

Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma requires a background check on all potential volunteers before they are placed with a troop or group of girls. To help Girl Scouts serve the nearly 300 girls currently on a waiting list, please visit gswestok.org or call 405-528-GIRL (4475) or toll free 800-698-0022.


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SpringBreakFunPlanning to stay home for Spring Break this year? You don’t need a big vacation to make the week exciting for your kids. Here are five suggestions for things to do without leaving town or breaking the bank:

1. Make up a theme for each day and act accordingly. On “Reverse Day,” eat dinner for breakfast, breakfast for dinner, dress backwards and do your regular routine in reverse. On “Outer Space Day,” take turns drawing aliens or outer space creatures, take a trip to the Planetarium at Science Museum Oklahoma or go stargazing. Let your kids help brainstorm themes for each day and use their ideas for fun activities.

2. Get ready to grow! Prepare an area in your backyard for a garden by either tilling the soil or preparing raised beds. Plant seeds in cups or small pots to sprout indoors and then transplant them when the weather is consistently warm.

3. Take a day trip. Check out metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma for great ideas and local places that you family can visit and still be home in time for bed.

4. Have a movie marathon. Pick a theme and let each family member chose their favorite movie that fits within that theme. Many movies can be rented for free from your local libraries.

5. Enjoy the local scene. Many venues in the metro area are offering special activities and events during Spring Break—many for free or at low cost. For an ongoing list of events, visit metrofamilymagazine.com/spring-break-2011-activities and check the ever-changing calendar at metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar.

Recently, we asked on Facebook how our fans were planning to spend Spring Break. Our readers have fun and creative things planned. Read on:

• “I am excited for spring break this year because my son (1 year) can walk now so he and big sister (3 yrs) can chase bubbles together instead of her tripping over him. They are 2 years apart so they get to do everything together now!” – Taressa T.

• “I just love spring! We will plant some flowers and take a little road trip for part of the week.” – Denise H.

• “I enjoy the extra time that I get to spend with my children. We enjoy baseball, fishing and riding bikes!” - LeeAnne F.

• “We'll probably try to visit with as many friends as possible. We homeschool, so when our friends who are in school are off, we love to use the time to catch up with them.” – Dorothy H.

• “My husband and I are starting spring break off by letting grandparents keep the kids for a couple days so we can go out. Then we are all going to do some gardening together. We have to make a plan and maybe do some early bulbs. I can't wait to get the kids involved!” – Johnna M.

Have a fun, affordable Spring Break idea? Share it with other parents at facebook.com/MetroFamily.

RespectDiversityGalaCurrently on display at Science Museum Oklahoma, “We Care for the Earth,” is a colorful mural reminding visitors of the importance of working together to preserve our planet. The mural is the result of a collaboration of over 100 students, teachers and professional artists. Villa Theresa Preschool Teacher, Nancy Hazelton, states, “I feel like children need to learn that art can be universal.” The mural will literally introduce the 10th Annual Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit on March 11 and remain on display through May 11. Professional artists who participated with the students in creating the mural include: Dr. Bob Palmer, G. Patrick Riley, Amanda Joy Wells, Elizabeth Muller and Cynthia Daniel Wolf.

Want to enjoy colorful artwork by Oklahoma students exploring diversity through the arts? Plan to attend the annual Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit Gala at Science Museum Oklahoma, held March 29. The program will begin at 5:00pm in the Eleanor Maurer Theatre. Presentations will be made for winning entries in the statewide Respect Diversity Art & Poetry Contest. Admission is free but reservations are required. To be placed on the guest list, call 405-359-0369 or email [email protected].

To learn about projects of the Respect Diversity Foundation, visit respectdiversity.org.

Detail showing a portion of the “We Care for the Earth” mural, currently on display at Science Museum Oklahoma.

5320:ShapeYourFutureThe mysterious signs popped up all around the Metro, getting us all talking and wondering what the mysterious “5320” could mean. Now it has been revealed that 5320 refers to the number of Oklahomans who could be saved each year if our state met the national average for health measures. Oklahoma currently ranks 46th in health, but the Oklahoma Health Improvement Plan seeks to improve that ranking.

The next step is to work on the Oklahoma Health Improvement Plan’s current recommendations to make changes in the community, including stricter smoking bans, health education in schools and bans against using hand-held electronics while driving.

“Without bold action that creates an environment where the healthy choice is the easy choice, the toll of chronic illnesses, increased medical costs and an unproductive workforce will be the shape of things to come,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline. “Let’s turn the tide and Shape Our Future—5,320 Oklahomans are counting on us.”

Visit shapeyourfutureok.com to learn more.


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Your contributions to United Way of Central Oklahoma provide solutions to the needs of our community. Thank you for being a part of the solution.


DolphinDashersClubLocal mother Christy Kilgore is a devoted runner and avid believer in the importance of healthy kids. It is these two passions that led her to create the Dolphin Dashers—a running club made up of 20+ elementary school students at Earlywine Elementary School in Moore.

Through her volunteer position as Race Director for the Earlywine Dash, a 5K run that benefits her children’s school, Kilgore saw an opportunity to encourage student participation in the race while also working to help offset childhood obesity. “Running is such a great sport for kids because it is something they can do their whole lives,” Kilgore explains. “No matter their age or ability, all they need to get started is a good pair of shoes. It can be the first step in helping them to succeed in other sports and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

The Dolphin Dashers meet once a week for 45 minutes during the school year. In addition to setting running goals, the club discusses topics such as the proper use of muscle groups, the importance of stretching and nutrition. “Every week, it is so great to see them want to run and do well. It feels great to see them feeling good about what they are doing. I seriously underestimated their ability to run in this race and now I have kids in PreK training to complete a mile run!”

The Second Annual Earlywine Dash 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run will be held on Sunday, March 27 at 2:00pm at the Earlywine Park Pavilion (SW 119th and May). Proceeds benefit Earlywine Elementary School and the Earlywine Park YMCA’s Strong Kids Program. Registration is $25 in advance, $30 on race day. The first 250 participants will receive a race t-shirt. A free Kiddie Dash, sponsored by Jump Zone, is available for kids of all ages and all Kiddie Dash participants will receive a goodie bag for participating. The Dash also offers a “Sunday nap” option for those who are not runners but would like to make a $10 contribution in support of the event.

For more information or to register for the race events, visit ymcaokc.org/earlywinedash.aspx.

Interested in starting a running club of your own? Christy tells how she did it on our website. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/running-club for details.

A baby is something you carry inside you for nine months, in your arms for three years and in your heart till the day you die.

– Mary Mason

America’sTopYoungScientistCompetition

According to the results of the 2009 National Assessment of

Education Progress, less than half of U.S.

students are proficient in science. The decline

begins in fourth grade, with 34 percent

performing at or above the proficient level, and decreases

to only 21 percent of students by senior year.

To help cultivate America’s next generation of great thinkers and innovators and keep them interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, Discovery Education and 3M have teamed up to reward students for their science acumen and curiosity, while encouraging them to creatively communicate their findings in a national science competition.

Student in grades five through eight are invited to enter the 13th Annual Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Contestants are asked to create a one- to two-minute video communicating the science behind a possible solution for an everyday problem in one of three categories:

• The Way We Move• The Way We Keep Ourselves Healthy• The Way We Make a DifferenceReviewed by a panel of judges, all video entries will be evaluated on the basis of creativity, scientific knowledge, persuasiveness and overall presentation. Videos will not be judged on production skills and may be recorded on cell phones or basic digital cameras. All video entries must be submitted online no later than April 15.

Ten finalists will be selected to work with a 3M scientist as part of a summer mentorship program with the goal of creating an innovation that solves a problem in society. Then, the finalists will receive an all-expense paid trip to the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota in October, 2011 to present their innovation. One overall winner will be selected to receive $25,000 and the title of America’s Top Young Scientist.

For submission guidelines and complete rules, visit youngscientistchallenge.com.

According to the results of the 2009 National Assessment of

Education Progress, less than half of U.S.

students are proficient in science. The decline

begins in fourth grade, with 34 percent

performing at or above the proficient level, and decreases

to only 21 percent of students by senior year.

To help cultivate America’s next generation of great thinkers

The Dolphin Dashers running club of Earlywine Elementary, Moore.Photo courtesy of Christy Kilgore.


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Four days before Christmas, an unsettling headline was splashed across the front page of a local paper. The State Medical Examiner’s Office reported that a 41-year-old mother had killed her three-year-old

son in their Norman home before turning the gun on herself. Police toxicology tests on the

mother were negative for drugs and alcohol, leaving many to wonder what ultimately led to this tragic result. Without the influence of chemical substances, what could happen to make a mother commit this unspeakable

crime against her own child? Few crimes elicit as much media attention—

and evoke such strong emotional reactions—as those involving crimes against a

child. To most, the idea that an adult would deliberately harm a child is unconscionable, yet statistics reveal that abuse and homicide by a family member are common. According to research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, 61 percent of American children under five years old who are murdered are killed by a parent—and of these, 30 percent by their mother. In Oklahoma, the Department of Human Services reports that mothers are responsible for just over 44 percent of confirmed child abuse and neglect cases.

According to Barbara Almond, M.D., a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst on faculty at the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis, child murder is the most extreme and shocking manifestation of maternal ambivalence, a topic that she has spent her professional career researching and exploring.

The Mommy MonsterHow Maternal Ambivalence

Affects Contemporary Motherhood


WhatisMaternalAmbivalence?In her book The Monster Within: The Hidden Side of Motherhood, Dr. Almond explains that ambivalence is a combination of the positive and negative feelings we experience towards the crucial people in our lives. “Ambivalence describes the holding of both loving and hating feelings towards anything that’s very important to you,” she says. “It’s not just negative feelings, it is truly two-sided.”

Feelings such as resentment, anger, frustration, loneliness, boredom and anxiety are the common negative factors in maternal ambivalence, as are the anxiety, guilt and shame that result from having these feelings. Ambivalence is not hatred or aggression; it is the conflicted mental state in which one has both positive and negative feelings for the same person. Like all emotions, ambivalence comes in all shapes and sizes along a spectrum, ranging from a passing bout of impatience with your child to the depths of the dark side of child abuse and murder.

Almond posits that ambivalence is a widespread phenomenon common among all mothers—and one that is completely understandable. “Anything important to you, including children, spouse, job, and friends can disappoint, frustrate or let you down,” Almond says. “But women feel embarrassed, guilty and angry when they don’t feel love 100 percent of the time towards children. While, truly, it really is an impossible goal.”

In her book, Almond discusses that having feelings of ambivalence towards your job, friends, siblings or other groups of people might lead to you being considered unreasonable, difficult or bigoted—but admitting these same feelings about your children is often considered

“monstrous, immoral, unnatural and evil.” While other authors and researchers have explored the concept of maternal ambivalence, Almond notes that it still remains highly unacceptable in our culture. “In my career, I’ve found such little recognition that this is a normal phenomenon that I decided to write a book about it,” she explains. “It was difficult for me to get the book published. I was told it was ‘too dark’ and ‘too unpleasant.’ It seems so bizarre that it is okay for the news media to highlight child abuse and murder, but we can’t talk about something as real and everyday as motherhood ambivalence.”

Almond says that her interests lie in “normalizing” maternal ambivalence, so that parents will recognize that it is a normal part of the human condition. “Too many women suffer as they attempt to be perfect mothers, an effort driven in part to cover their ambivalence,” Almond writes. “Modern mothers are literally driving themselves and their offspring crazy in their quest for maternal perfection.”

DoesItComeFromOurCulture?Almond explains that many European countries provide programs and services that provide support and encouragement for women post-partum, but that it is most often not the case in the United States. “The biological, social and psychological strains of pregnancy, childbirth and mothering are enormous and underrated in our society,” she explains. “These skills and abilities do not come as easily or naturally as we wish. Motherhood is not automatically an all-fulfilling state.”

Before World War II, Almond explains that the “ideal” middle-class mother stayed home and exclusively cared for her family. Then, as the feminist movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s allowed women to both work and raise children, it became more acceptable for women to not be with their children 24 hours a day. “While this liberation was empowering for women, it has also given rise to this expectation of perfection in motherhood and the incredibly high standards of a woman who can do it all,” she says. “This idealization of motherhood has continued into the present and has grown in intensity.”

In addition to the pressure on women to be “supermom,” mothers today are often geographically separated from their extended family. In previous generations, mothers had the support of grandparents,

aunts, and siblings to assist with the raising of children, and now that burden rests solely on the parents. Also, the high divorce rate in our society and the number of children born to single mothers leaves many mothers on their own to deal with these complex feelings and emotions.

Trends in popular parenting methods also contribute to the problem. Current trends often suggest that there is only one ideal way to get the job done properly. “These mothers are convinced that doing

‘the right thing’ will protect their children from all sorts of future emotional, behavioral and learning difficulties,” Almond notes. But there are no guarantees in parenting.

From her experience as a psychiatrist, professor and therapist, Almond hopes to tell mothers “just because you have a different way of doing things, it does not mean that you love your child any less.” In her book, she writes that “fierce and demanding pressure surround contemporary mothering. Perfectionistic standards of child care in every area—feeding, sleep, play, emotional and intellectual development—prevail.” Combined pressures from work, the absence of a family support system and increasing expectations of motherhood can lead to increased frustration and resentment for mothers who are often expected by our society—and themselves—to be perfect.

WhyNeedingTimeisNotaCrimeAlmond stresses that these normal feelings of ambivalence are compounded when a woman feels like her personal needs and desires are not being met. “Ambivalence tends to be worse in middle and upper-middle class, and in first time moms. Women tend to become more relaxed with each child that is born, until the point where juggling multiple children starts to be a source of ambivalence in itself. Women need to know that needing sleep, private time and the ability to pursue your own interests is not a crime.”

Almond explains that the majority of maternal ambivalence stems from conflicts between the child’s and mother’s own needs, especially in circumstances when both are truly legitimate. There is a feeling among mothers seeking maternal perfection that, in order to not feel guilty about spending time away from your child, you must give extra.

Almond says that guilt is the most common outcome when women are unable or unwilling to find a healthy balance, and therefore fail to live up to self-inflicted impossible standards of motherhood. “The pressure to be all-loving and all-giving towards their children takes a powerful toll on women. It results in guilt, which makes them feel angry and disappointed with themselves and, in turn, angry and disappointed with their children. This makes them feel even guiltier, so they try harder and harder. It is a repetitive and exhausting cycle.”

IsitOkaytoSimplyBeGoodEnough?“The standard for good mothering in contemporary society has become so demanding of maternal perfection and selfless devotion,” Almond writes. “It is time, for the well being of both mother and child, to consider a new and more realistic standard.” This new standard, Almond says, is the “good enough” mother. The good-enough mother, she explains, is not without ambivalence, but offsets it with enough real love and sensitivity to respond to their child in a flexible, realistic way.

“Women try very hard to do the best they can—that’s why these rigid standards are so bad,” Almond explains. “A more flexible, relaxed mom enjoys herself more. She is not as haunted by thoughts of ‘I must be a certain way’ for my kids to turn out okay.”

To this end, Dr. Almond makes the following suggestions for mothers struggling to find balance amidst feelings of ambivalence:

• Realize that your situation is unique. Recognize that there are many different ways to be a good mother and that each mother-


child relationship is unique. There is no set way to do anything and mothers should steer clear of that pressure and temptation to compare her parenting style with others.

• Strengthen your ego. Ego-strength is a mother’s ability to realistically balance her own needs and the needs of her children.

“This is the ability to recognize a child’s changing needs while protecting her own need not to be swallowed up by the demands of motherhood,” Almond explains. Mothers with good ego strength can balance their needs for satisfaction and enjoyment with the needs of their children in a calm and focused manner.

• Look for object-relatedness. This is a mother’s ability to view her child as a completely separate person and not a clone or extension of herself. “Recognizing the child’s individuality is a crucial part of sensitive mothering,” Almond writes. “It allows the mother to manage the child’s need for discipline and parental control, as well as the child’s need for freedom to develop in his or her own way.” This shifts the mother’s focus from making it her responsibility to ensure that the child develops “right” and to concentrate instead on enjoying the developmental process.

• Involve others. Involve grandparents, aunts, uncles and others who know the mother well, but fall far enough outside the mother-child relationship to be impartial. In addition to providing support for the mother, these individuals can sometimes see solutions and alternatives that even a well-meaning mother might miss.

• Give up the guilt. When asked what advice she would give to mothers struggling with ambivalence, Dr. Almond’s last piece of advice is succinct: Don’t feel guilty for your feelings of ambivalence. “Children are very, very, very important to us. Ambivalent feelings are normal and there is a large range of feelings. Childhood is over very quickly—and you’ll wish you could go back and enjoy this time. Ease up on yourself.”

MovingBeyondAmbivalenceDespite her focus on ambivalence, Almond knows that there is an equally wonderful, rewarding and inspiring side to child-rearing, even in those who struggle most heavily with negative emotions.

“Motherhood is primarily an experience of fulfillment, growth, and in some cases, healing and redemption,” Almond writes. “There is a clear and powerful bright side of maternity.”

For mothers who lose sight of that, Almond says that reassurance from a spouse, relative or friend alone may not necessarily work, and the mother must first explore the source of the guilt. “Therapy will allow them to look at their specific history, fantasies, thoughts and whatever else spurs this type of feelings,” says Almond. “Especially if feelings of ambivalence lead to depression or long-term anxiety, then it is time to seek professional help. There is value in psychological treatment in which mothers can be heard and understood without negative judgment or condemnation.”

No matter the means of dealing with it, Almond’s primary hope is that mothers everywhere will come to understand that these feelings of ambivalence are common. “If women can come to understand their maternal ambivalence as a normal part of their emotional lives, they will seek help to deal with it more effectively, thus vastly increasing their chances of the happy and fruitful motherhood for which they so deeply long.”

The Monster Within: The Hidden Side of Motherhood is available at major booksellers and online retailers. You can read Dr. Almond’s Blog “Maternal Ambivalence: Exploring Hidden and Uncomfortable Emotions Surrounding Motherhood” at psychologytoday.com/blog/maternal-ambivalence.

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

MFM: How common do you find the struggle with ambivalence to be with the mothers in your practice?LN: It’s one of the most common things that women struggle

with. There are so many pressures on women in our society, pressures to do well and live up to expectations and standards. When they become mothers, it is just compounded. There seems to be more pressure in our society with each passing generation. The struggle to maintain a balance between work and personal life, financial pressures, and staying connected to family all add more and more stress to people, and I think moms feel it especially.

MFM: Does ambivalence seem to affect a certain group of mothers more so than others?LN: As Dr. Almond noted, it seems to affect middle class and

upper middle class moms especially. I think this is because they tend to have higher expectations for themselves. But, truly, I see it in mothers of all ages and socioeconomic statuses in my practice.

MFM: In addition to the tips from Dr. Almond, what advice would you give to a mother struggling with feelings of ambivalence?LN: I think it is important for mothers to seek out or start their

own support group, even if you just start with one friend and ask them to invite one friend and spread the word. It’s just really important for moms to have support with child rearing. It can be so isolating, so it is crucial for moms to reach out to other moms.

MFM: How do you think the prevalence of technology in our lives affects a mother’s ability to deal with ambivalence?LN: I think technology can both help and hurt a mom trying

to deal with ambivalence. On one hand, it may lead to a decrease in the number of real, in-person interactions. But it can also help a mom to find a support group online, join a moms group in their community, and stay connected to other moms. Also, it is sometimes easier for people to admit tough or not-so-positive things in an online setting, so it can help with the process of recognizing and working through feelings. However, it is also important to have people that you can be open and honest with in your day-to-day life, too.

MFM: What advice do you have for a reader who might be struggling with these feelings in her daily life?LN: Be realistic both about your expectations and your own

needs. Try to just enjoy the wonderful growth and joys that come with motherhood. Remember that as your child develops, you will develop, too. Just as your child has needs, you have needs, too. It’s so easy to put all your efforts into your children and become too selfless. Our society says that we are supposed to give and give and give to our children, but we have to remember to give to ourselves, too.

Dr. Linda J. Neal is a health service psychologist in private practice in both Norman and Oklahoma City. Dr. Neal is also a mother to a 20-year-old daughter.

For information on finding a local support group for moms, visit metrofamilymagazine.com/organizations-for-moms.

MaternalAmbivalenceintheMetro:Q&AwithLocalExpert,Dr.LindaNeal


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Chandra Boyd is a creative local mom of one spirited little girl with a job that keeps her active in the local

community. We recently caught up with her to ask a few questions, to get a behind-the-scenes peek into the life of this wife and mother.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I can’t swim.

What are you passionate about? My family, good health, education, the community, and the arts.

How has motherhood changed you? I’m much less rigid and have learned how to go with the flow a lot more.

How do you banish stress? I read a daily meditation, play with my daughter, spend time with my husband, and take naps as often as possible!

What inspires you? Seeing the world through a child’s eyes and learning something new every day.

What line of work are you in?I am a curator of education at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, where I oversee Museum School classes for children and adults and camps for children, provide interpretation for exhibitions and collections, as well as create programs and activities serving families and adults.

What do you like most about your job? It’s not the same thing every day. Plus, I love being able to serve children and families, share world-class art with OKC, and bring together people in our community.

What is on your wish list? A new pair of black boots and a vacation

What are you most proud of? My family, my job and my education. I spent a lot of time in school, earning two bachelors and two masters over the course of about 10 years. I just loved school so much, but it was a lot of work, and I am proud of finishing it. Also, my parents sacrificed a lot to make sure I wasn’t left with student loans, so while I am proud of the actual work on my education, I am even more proud of my parents and am inspired to do the same for my child.

What motivates you? Setting a goal; once I put my mind to something, I can usually make it happen.

How do you find balance in your life? Setting aside time for myself and my family and friends.

Advice for other moms? Do what works best for you and your family.

What’s the biggest challenge in your life? My life is very blessed, but accepting that I am right where I need to be at present is a challenge.

How do you help others? I give away as much as possible (clothing, toys, household items), and I try to volunteer as much as I can for various arts and charitable organizations in the community. I have been told that my work at the art museum makes a huge difference in the lives of others, but it’s hard for me accept credit for that; I don't know why.

What is your parenting style? Providing unconditional love, being consistent, leading by example, being forgiving, and letting them learn for themselves.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood? It took us several years to get pregnant, so we were so overjoyed when we found out we were having a baby. It’s easy to complain about the sleepless nights, the constant feedings, diaper changes, etc. But I reminded myself to cherish every moment I have to spend with my daughter, especially during my “blissful” 2 am moments.

Mari Farthing is the editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Real Moms of the MetroChandraBoyd

Quick Facts about Chandra:1. What are five words that

describe you? Compassionate, sensitive, clean-freak, skeptical and loyal.

2. What’s your favorite date night venue? Flip’s—it’s where my husband and I fell in love!

3. What’s on your reading list? Primarily consists of children’s books these days! Our daughter loves books, and we read together every day.

4. What’s always in your handbag? A notebook (because I’m always making lists!)

5. What’s your guilty pleasure? Wine and chocolates.


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Today I read to learn.

Jim Tolbert ’53, Owner, Full Circle Bookstore,

Chairman, Dean McGee Eye Institute

Daniela Rodriguez-Chavez,Casady Student, Class of 2019

Tomorrow I encourage others to read.

You might be aware of our academic prowess, or the pride and excitement at every one of our sporting events. You might be interested in our inspiring 80-acre campus or

renowned art and drama program. But it doesn’t mean a thing unless our students grow and succeed. Before our

students become leaders, we challenge their mindsand build their spirit. It’s all by design.

Ask any Casady student or graduate.They’re always well-prepared.

Casady School. Prepare to Succeed.405.749.3214 / casady.org

Financial aid available. Casady School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

Today I read to learn.

Casady School. Prepare to Succeed.


When a child is removed from his home due to evidence of abuse or neglect, going through the child welfare system can be a very frightening experience. Just imagine, being uprooted from the only life you know, facing many different people, and entering into a completely unfamiliar environment. CASA believes no child should have to go through that process alone.

WhatisCASA?A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer is a trained adult, sworn in by a judge, who represents children who are abused or neglected. The volunteer is assigned an active case in the juvenile court system and immediately begins researching the child’s circumstances. The CASA volunteer then provides factual information and makes recommendations to the court while being a source of support for the child. The judge uses this information when making decisions based on the child’s best interest.

Locally, CASA of Oklahoma County located in Oklahoma City, recruits, trains and oversees this corps of volunteers. LeAnn Limber, CASA of Oklahoma County Executive Director, states, “In the 2010 calendar year, 240 CASA volunteers served over 820 Oklahoma children. We typically serve 300 cases annually which account for approximately 30 percent of existing cases.” Although many children in custody do benefit from a CASA volunteer, there aren’t enough volunteers for every child in need. “To serve another 70 percent (all cases) could easily mean another 400 volunteers on top of our existing volunteers,” Limber said, “The ultimate goal is to find every child a safe and permanent home where they can thrive and live to their full potential.”

BetheVoiceBecoming a CASA volunteer can lead to a very meaningful contribution to society. To become a volunteer, you must:

• be at least 21 years of age.• have a strong interest in children and their rights.• devote time to training, gather information and follow up on

assigned cases.• have basic human relation skills.• be able to communicate well both verbally and in writing.• pass police record and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation

background check.• provide three references.• pass a screening interview. Volunteers, on average, commit three to five hours per week on their child(ren)’s behalf. CASA volunteers must initially attend 38 hours of training and agree to one year of service. Following one year of service, volunteers attend 12 hours of inservice/support groups per year.

Margaret Corenson has been a CASA volunteer for 13 years. When asked about how CASA has impacted her life she replied, “It has been a huge experience. I consider CASA going to school… I learn something new every time. I learn new ways people torture their children. Though, I can say, that in almost every single case I’ve worked on it has turned out positive; the child finds a safe permanent home or the child is returned to their home.” She explains her duties as a volunteer. “After training, you are sworn in and become an officer

Not Alone…CASAofOklahoma

CountyHelpingChildreninNeed

Some children need a voice. A heart-wrenching, sad reality it is,

but there are thousands of children in Oklahoma that need someone to take

a stand for their best interests.

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by Julie Dill a mother of two and a MetroFamily Magazine columnist.


of the court. You always consider privacy issues and the Privacy Act. After you are assigned a case, you then have access to the child’s medical records, education records and grades. You can make home visits. The purpose is to then go back into the courtroom with a written report. The judges have always listened to what I have to say and always considered an alternative plan if needed. You get to know the child and everything about their life.”

CASASupportAs with any nonprofit, funding is critical to CASA’s success. Most of the expenses of the organization relate to recruitment, training and supervision of volunteers, with one case manager overseeing up to 30 volunteers. In order for the organization to run efficiently, funding is needed. Expenses include recruitment, training and supervision. Cheryl Jones, Development Director for CASA of OK County said,

“Sustainability is the most important thing. We have to know we can sustain; the kids have to know that we’re going to be there [for them].”

Judge Richard Kirby explained, “In Oklahoma, 34 percent of all children removed from their homes for abuse or neglect and placed in foster care are right here in Oklahoma County. We cannot maintain our CASA numbers or recruit more CASA volunteers without financial contributions.”

ContactInformationTo be a CASA volunteer, contact Alex Corbitt, 405-713-6607. To make a financial contribution or form a business partnership, contact Cheryl Jones, 405-713-6612. For more information, visit okcountycasa.org.

The2011RedbudClassicEach year, local non-profit agencies apply to be the beneficiary for the Redbud Classic. Throughout the year, the beneficiary partners with Redbud in preparing for the event and then helps provide volunteers for the races and other duties during the two-day event. This year, the Redbud Classic board of directors selected CASA of Oklahoma County.

“We hope to bring an awareness to the public of what exactly CASA does,” explained Race Director Patty Anthony. “And we hope our donation will enable them to train more volunteers to be advocates for these children.”

The 2011 Redbud Classic will be held April 10-11, providing both cycling and running events for all fitness levels. Events include:

• Cycling events: 10-, 33- and 50-mile tours. Tandem and recumbent cyclicsts may also register for 50-mile tours.

• Running events: 5K and 10K timed events plus a kids 1-mile fun run.

• Walking events: two-mile walk with or without baby stroller.• Wheelchair: 5K course.

Registration fees and details:• Early-bird discounted registration (before April 4): $25 for one

event, $40 for both Saturday and Sunday events.• Register April 4-8: $30 for one event, $50 for two• April 9: $35 for Saturday, $30 for Sunday, $60 for both• After April 10, $35 per eventPackets and T-shirts will be mailed to those entering before April 10. Visit redbud.org for registration forms, more information and

volunteer opportunities. To volunteer for Redbud Classic, contact Cheryl Jones, 405-713-6612.

At the starting line of the Redbud Classic.

Lee Ann Limber, executive director, and CASA of Oklahoma County staff take a rare break for a holiday photo. Front Row: Kaycee Rider, Kathy Swift, Alex Corbitt. Second Row: Donna Hampton, Clotiel Howard, Miranda Taylor. Final row: Lee Ann Limber, Cheryl Jones, Jennifer Balaban, Joy Short, Jennifer Warren, Natasha Franklin, Michelle Gant, Lola Hall and Eddie Porter.


Times have changed. In past generations, kindergarten was often a child’s first school experience. However, the

prerequisites to kindergarten (both actual and assumed) include much more than just building block towers these days. As parents, what can we do to prepare our children for kindergarten success? Pre-kindergarten programs may help to fill any gaps.

Tresax Bowmaker, kindergarten teacher at Fisher Elementary in Moore puts it this way, “It is crucial that children have a solid pre-kindergarten foundation before entering kindergarten. It is very important to have your child participate in some type of curriculum-based program to master the skills they should possess before entering kindergarten.”

It’s imperative that parents have the right tools to foster educational development, even in the first years of life. There are many state and local agencies designed to help and in fact, Oklahoma has received national recognition for providing strong early-education efforts. The following are some options to consider.

OklahomaParentsasTeachersOklahoma Parents as Teachers (OPAT) is a free parent education program with a mission to give children the best start in life. The program’s philosophy is that parents are their children’s first and most important teachers. The goal, in an effort to lay the foundation for school success, is to maximize a child’s development during the first three years of life. Services include:

• personalized visits from trained parent educators from your public school.

• parent group meetings.• resources and referrals.

• developmental screenings.• early partnership between home and

school.Expectant parents and parents of children ages birth through three years are eligible (within participating school districts). To enroll, call your school district.

SmartStartWith the help of many partners, Smart Start works to inform others about the importance of the early years by promoting school readiness solutions and supporting families of Central Oklahoma.

Services include a partnership with local districts to promote programs such as Early Birds and Reach Out and Read, which provide parents and children informative literature and tools to get a jump-start on learning. Dr. Stacy Dykstra of Smart Start explains, “We have scientific evidence that early experiences affect the architecture of the brain, both good and bad. Research suggests a child’s access to books and other reading materials leads to positive outcomes for the child, including an understanding of reading basics, more time spent reading, a more positive attitude towards reading and learning and better reading performance.”

OklahomaCityEducareA community partnership, Educare opened a year and half ago to serve 200 disadvantaged children, ages birth to five years. The newly-appointed director Marlana Means is committed to improving the lives of young children. The program offers year-round early childhood education programs to help young children grow up safe, healthy and eager to learn. Serving children who are at-risk for school failure, they provide an outcome-based learning program. The Educare facility is designed with the child in mind, from spinning wooden blocks on the wall to a natural playground, the design lends itself to many developmentally-appropriate, teachable moments. They hope to instill in their children an excitement for learning that will follow them to their education in Oklahoma City Public Schools.

HeadStartHead Start programs vary in an effort to tailor-fit solutions to the needs of the community in which it serves. There are two basic types of Head Start programs: a center-based program in which a child attends Head Start with other children, and a home-based

Focus on EducationEarlyEducationOptions

Quick ReferenceOklahoma Parents as Teachers: parentsasteachers.org

Smart Start of Central Oklahoma: smartstartcentraloklahoma.org

Oklahoma CIty Educare: okceducare.org

Oklahoma Head Start: 405-949-1495.

Sooner Start: Cleveland County, 405-321-4048 Oklahoma County, 405-271-9477

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program in which families and children receive a full range of services. Although they work to meet the unique needs of the community, Head Start adheres to the Head Start Performance Standards which govern administration and include four core components: health, education, parent involvement and social services.

SoonerStartA program mandated by federal and state law, SoonerStart is an early intervention program. It is designed to meet the needs of infants and toddlers with special needs or developmental delays and prepares them for a more successful school experience. Infants and toddlers through 36 months of age with developmental delays could be eligible for services.

There is no cost to families, and services may include:

• diagnostic and evaluation services.• case management.• family training, counseling and home

visits.• certain health services.• nursing services.• nutrition services.• occupational, physical and speech-

language therapy.• special instruction.

Services are provided in the child’s natural environment (home or daycare).

PublicSchoolFourYearOldProgam(Pre-K)Offered in a public school setting, pre-kindergarten classes are curriculum based and taught by a certified teacher. Typically a 10:1 child to teacher ratio, many classes are instructed with an additional teacher’s aide. Social skills, creative skills, language arts, math, motor skills, science, social studies and thinking/problem solving skills are taught throughout the course of the year.

For information and enrollment, contact your school district. Classes tend to fill quickly, so it’s important you stay informed of specific enrollment dates which vary district to district.

If you’re unsure about your child’s preschool or kindergarten readiness, it may be helpful to start with your child’s pediatrician to learn about which available programs may best fit with your family’s needs.

Julie Dill is a National Board Certifi ed Teacher from Oklahoma City and mother of two.

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Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

Pre-andEarlyReadersKylie Cow Learns Colorsby Robbie Jacobs(Tate Publishing, softcover, $9)Journey through the barnyard with Kylie the cow as she learns about the colors beyond the cow-basic black and white. A sweet story written by a local author.

Kylie Jean, Rodeo Queenby M. Peschke, illustrated by Tuesday Mourning(Picture Window Books, softcover, $5)One of several titles in the pink-tinted series of Kylie Jean, this book invites readers into the heroine's quirky world to discover how to become a rodeo queen.

Judy Moody, Girl Detectiveby Megan McDonald(Candlewick Press, hardcover, $16)The precocious heroine of the self-titled series takes on a mystery along the lines of Nancy Drew. A suspenseful story and fun illustrations will keep your young reader engaged.

Grades3+The Indestructible Metal Menby Paul Collicutt(Templar Books, softcover, $9)A graphic novel with an old-school comic book feel, this Robot City Adventures title tells of the battle between the evil Dr. Furniss and young scientist Sarah Cross.

Interactive Explorer: Weather & Spaceby Helen Young & Chris Oxlade(Silver Dolphin Books, spiralbound, $15)Investigate all there is to know about weather and space with this book, filled with flaps, overlays and pullouts.

TeensKaty’s Homecomingby Kim Vogel Sawyer(Zondervan, softcover, $10)The third in the Lambright Series, this book explores what happens when an Old-Order Mennonite teen atttends a secular high school and is elected to the homecoming court?

ParentsThe Complete Guide to Baby Sign Languageby Tracey Porpora(Atlantic Publishing Group, softcover, $25)A step-by-step guide for parents to teach sign language to babies as young as six months. Also contains helpful information about common problems, plus a large appendix of signs for common words, the alphabet and numbers.

SuperBabyDr. Jenn Berman(Sterling Publishing, softcover, $25)If you’ve ever wished your baby came with an instruction manual, here is the answer to that request. Covers virtually every topic that you may wonder about your child, from birth to preschool-age.

The Go-To Mom’s Parents’ Guide to Emotion Coaching Young Childrenby Kimberley Clayton Blaine(Jossey-Bass, softcover, $17)

Emotions are a big part of growing up, so how do you handle your child’s emotional needs and your own while you are raising kids? This helpful guide by the producer of the popular online site thegotomom.tv offers guidance to help through many situations.

The Trusted Advice series: Your Healthy Pregnancy, Your Healthy Child, You and Your Toddlerby Dr. Miriam Stoppard(DK Books, softcover, $10 each)A collection of slim titles that provide information on health for mom and baby from pregnancy through toddlerhood. Easy-to-read short titles that can handily be tossed into a purse or diaper bag.

Enjoy the Rideby Suzy Martyn(Mother's Friend Publishing, softcover, $13)A one-stop reference book that covers a wide variety of issues your young children will face, from night terrors and potty training to making friends.

Dad’s Guide to Pregnancy for Dummiesby Matthew M. F. Miller and Sharon Perkins, RN(Wiley Publishing, softcover, $16)Take the fear out of fatherhood for expecting dads with this title that tackles all the questions he may have about what is happening during pregnancy and beyond. Includes a chapter on “Ten Things She Won’t Ask For But Will Expect.”

Oklahoma Reads GreatReadsforEveryone

The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Wheels—A Love Storyby Ree Drummond (William Morrow, hardcover, $26)Fans of the popular blog know all about The Pioneer Woman (Ree Drummond) and her cowboy (whom she calls Marlboro Man). She blogs about her life as a city girl turned homeschooling ranch wife through thepioneerwoman.com.

If you’re unfamiliar with her story or just need a little escape, pick up her touching and humorous new book. Her story of finding her true love on the Oklahoma prairie will take you out of your every day routine. Includes an appendix of popular (and tasty) recipes.

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Family FinancesProtectYourChildfromIdentityTheft

One of the most important roles for a parent is to protect their children from possible harm. Most parents

take great strides to ensure the personal safety of their youngsters; however, few parents are aware of the potential problems arising from their child’s identity theft.

Child identify theft simply means that a child’s identity is used by another person for that person’s personal gain. When someone steals your child’s identity, it impacts his ability to get credit, scholarships, insurance, employment and a place to live. But, it can get even worse. If a person commits a crime using your child’s name, that crime goes on your child’s record.

Unfortunately, family members or close friends are the most likely candidates for stealing a child’s identity because they have immediate access to the child’s social security number or other personal information. In some cases, it is the child’s own parents who abuse their children’s identity, wrecking their child’s credit history for years to come. Whether perpetrated by a family member or a stranger, using someone else’s identity is illegal and punishable by law.

Child identity theft is a crime that has taken a few years to fester and grow. Starting in the early 1980s, the Internal Revenue Service asked the Social Security Administration to give all children a social security number. Having a Social Security number and not actively using it or monitoring its use has allowed unscrupulous individuals to take advantage of the younger generation and use their personal information for a variety of purposes. The problem has increased significantly in recent years with the advancement of technology making personal information more readily available.

Children are often a highly desirable target because few parents think about checking their children’s credit files. Most would assume that a file does not exist because the children are minors and have never applied for credit or held a job. However, credit report agencies only know what is reported on an application; they have no way of verifying the age of the individual making the application. Also, few credit reviewers ever ask for personal identification before making a loan or approving a credit card. As a result, neither the unsuspecting parent nor the child would know that a credit file has been established in the child’s name.

Following are some suggestions to help minimize your child’s risk for identity theft:

• Teach your children to never share any personal information—passwords, Social

Security number, banking information, personal ID numbers, etc—without your permission.

• If someone asks for a copy of your child’s birth certificate or Social Security number, ask why it’s necessary. Be sure to ask how the information will be shared or stored and who will have access to the information.

• Do not carry your Social Security card or your child’s card with you. Store them at home in a safe, secure place.

• If you receive bills or pre-approved credit card offers in your child’s name, contact the sender for more information.

• Review all savings account or banking account statements thoroughly rather than assuming your child’s accounts have had no activity.

• Keep your computer virus and spyware protection active and up-to-date, and use online passwords with a combination of letters, numbers and symbols to help reduce the potential for hacking.

• If your child has a credit history, check his or her credit report annually at the same time you check your own. Review the reports for any inaccuracies and report them.

• If you suspect your identity or your child’s identity might be compromised, take action immediately. Check with the three existing credit bureaus to get a copy of your credit report or your child’s report.

You can order a free copy of your credit report once a year from Experian, TransUnion and Equifax through the federal web site at annualcreditreport.com. Each credit bureau has different procedures for checking to see if your children have a credit file. Visit each credit bureau’s web site for instructions.

Should you find any activity listed on your report that is not yours, contact the credit bureau and the local police. You can also download an identity theft victim’s form at ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/index.html.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

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Other criteria will be reviewed by our staff. The study lasts up to 7 months, involving 6 morning visits to our offi ce, plus a follow up call at the end of the study. During the study you will receive study-related medicines, exams and lab tests at no cost to you, plus compensation for time and travel.

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15th Annual USA Chess National Summer Chess Camp Tour

USA Chess is the largest and premier summer chess camp organizer for children in the U.S. with more than 100 schools nationwide. Our staff is comprised of the finest children's chess instructors. Campers experience a fun filled week while learning the skills needed to play casual and/or competitive chess.

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Your Healthy FamilyUnderstandingMRSA

When most of us who are now parents were growing up, the idea of an incurable bacterial infection was

probably just this side of ridiculous. A virus, perhaps, but a bacterial infection? Not with all the antibiotics on the market! Fast forward a decade or two and it doesn't seem so farfetched. Methcillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, commonly called MRSA is a bacterium that causes infections in different parts of the body. While garden-variety staph are common and easily treated bacteria, over the past few decades, some strains of staph, such as MRSA, have become resistant to the antibiotics that once destroyed it. While some antibiotics are still effective against MRSA, the bacterium is constantly adapting.

WhatisMRSA?First discovered in 1961, MRSA is often referred to as a “superbug.” These infections are most common among people who have weakened immune systems and have been hospitalized, as well as those who reside in long-term care facilities. In fact, MRSA accounts for approximately 60 percent of all staph infections in U.S. hospitals, and

the number of infections is increasing significantly. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the number of MRSA infections has more than doubled in less than a decade. Equally alarming, however, is the appearance of community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA). First reported in the mid-1990s, CA-MRSA is categorized as such because it occurs in healthy people who have not been exposed to hospital settings for prolonged periods. Studies have shown that rates of CA-MRSA are also rapidly increasing.

SymptomsandRiskFactorsThe symptoms of MRSA depend on the location of the infection. Most cases are mild skin infections, causing sores or boils, but it can in some cases cause serious skin infections and can infect surgical wounds, the bloodstream, the lungs, or the urinary tract. In rare cases, MRSA can be life-threatening. Oklahoma City internist Dr. Hanna Saadah is board-certified in infectious disease medicine and is no stranger to MRSA. “CA-MRSA is not as invasive as hospital-acquired MRSA, so it is seen mainly when the skin barrier is broken by bites, scratches, cuts, or abrasions.”

This type of MRSA is affecting a much younger population on average. According to a study published by the Journal of the American Medical Society, while the average age of people who acquired MRSA in a health care setting was 68, the average age of those with CA-MRSA was only 23. Those sharing close quarters or who experience more skin-to-skin contact—such as team athletes or military recruits—are at higher risk for developing CA-MRSA.

TreatingMRSAWhile most cases of CA-MRSA are not dangerous or life-threatening, treatment is still challenging. According to Dr. Saadah,

“CA-MRSA is usually treated with a Bactrim or Septra, but in difficult cases or in the case of sulfa allergy, other antibiotics such as clindamycin or doxycycline plus rifampin may be used.” Intravenous vancomycin can be used as a last resort, but is reserved for the worst infections that don't respond to oral antibiotics. “There are a few other special antibiotics that are very expensive and reserved for the most unusual cases,” explains Dr. Saadah.

Preventing the spread of MRSA also presents unique challenges. Research shows that patient screening upon hospital admission, increased hand-washing, restriction of antibiotic use, isolation of infected patients, and decolonization methods have been shown to reduce the spread of MRSA. But in reality, according to Dr. Saadah, by the time the infection is discovered, in most cases it is too late. “Not applying alcohol, iodine, or peroxide to injured skin is important, because these antiseptics also kill the exposed living tissues of wounds, cuts or abrasions and invite infection. Washing injured skin with soap and water is best,” he advises. “Using hexachlorophene washes does reduce the number of MRSA on the skin and hands, and washing hands with alcohol-based gels is the best way to sterilize hands.”

Any way you approach it, MRSA is tricky to treat and prevent. Properly treating wounds and abrasions and more frequent hand-washing are the best defense to those of us in the general public, along with restricting antibiotic use when possible.

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer from Edmond and a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

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FREE Cloth Diaper Basic ClassesMarch 9th & 30th, 6PM

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DISCOVER THE MUSIC OF WEST AFRICA.

The Manding Jata Trio features 800 years of “jaliya” repertoire as well as uniquely arranged drum pieces and soaring female vocals.

Sunday, March 13, 2pm: Downtown LibraryMonday, March 14, 1pm: Edmond LibraryMonday, March 14, 7pm: Midwest City LibraryTuesday, March 15, 1pm: Ralph Ellison LibraryTuesday, March 15, 7pm: Bethany LibraryWednesday, March 16, 10am: Choctaw LibraryWednesday, March 16, 2pm: Warr Acres LibraryThursday, March 17, 1pm: Capitol Hill LibraryThursday, March 17, 7pm: Belle Isle LibraryFriday, March 18, 10am: The Village LibraryFriday, March 18, 2pm: Southern Oaks Library

All performances are free and open to the public.

Questions? Call (405) 606-3833

www.metrolibrary.org


My parents took our family camping to many fun and interesting places in and out of state. So, I find it

amazing that after over 47 years of living in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, I’m still finding exciting places to explore so close to home. Alabaster Caverns in northwestern Oklahoma is one such treat.

My father confirmed that, despite having camped at nearby Boiling Springs State Park a couple of times, we never made the 25-minute trip from Boiling Springs up State Highway 50 to visit these unique caverns. No problem. This left me a new adventure in my mid-life.

Alabaster Caverns State Park, located about 30 minutes northeast of Woodward, is a 200-acre recreational area featuring a ¾-mile cavern formed from alabaster, a unique form of gypsum, and is the largest natural gypsum cave open to the public in the world.

Accompanied by my assistant (and husband) Mark, we got to the park about 40 minutes before the on-the-hour tour of the cavern began. This gave us a chance to visit the scenic outlook behind the cavern entrance. An educational sign explains that the canyon was created hundreds of thousands of years ago by a “major collapse” of a cavern.

“That’s reassuring,” I said to Mark since we were preparing to ascend into the caverns we were now standing upon.

I led the way on a nearby trail that meanders partly into the canyon. “Wow, this is Oklahoma?” was all I could think standing cautiously a couple feet from the edge of a cliff that dropped several hundred feet to a beautiful, wooded canyon valley. Here, we discovered the “Water Cave,” an interesting rock formation that creates a mouth in the canyon, complete with a grill and picnic tables—a perfect, quiet spot for reflection, and a picnic, of course. We learned from

Mike Caywood, Park Manager, that the “Water Cave” is available for a unique camping experience by reservation only. Due to the strict rules that apply, this activity may not be suitable for young children, but would sure excite an adventuresome group of up to 15 people (best for those 13 and older).

We returned to the cavern entrance where we followed our Park Naturalist and tour guide Tandy Keenan down a portion of the 330 steps to the cave entrance. She assured us that caves don’t just collapse, as I had inquired after reading the scenic outlook sign. Tandy explained that a “collapse” is a slow process that occurs over hundreds of thousands of years with changes in the earth

caused by years of water changes. Well, that was a relief.

Unlike the limestone caverns I’ve toured in my childhood, this cavern does not have the typical stalagmites and stalactites; instead, the cave is formed with beautiful boulder formations made up of colorful gypsum. Water runs through portions of the cavern where Tandy says raccoons and other canyon creatures come to feast on the crawfish. Since we were there in January, the bats were hibernating which gave us a close up view of these “cute” creatures. Several species of bats call the Alabaster Caverns home.

The 45-minute tour was certainly an informative and worthy adventure. I still can’t believe I’d never visited considering the caverns have been open to the public since 1956. Better late then never!

For more information on Alabaster Caverns State Park and all activities available, call 580-621-3381 or visit travelok.com.

Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband, Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh Corgi. Daughter, Megan, attends OSU in Stillwater.

Exploring OklahomaBats,ScenicBeautyandAdventure:DiscoverAlabasterCaverns

Tandy Keenan, Alabaster Caverns Park Naturalist and Tour Guide, leads writer Karen Mitchell through the gypsum cave maze.


Make it a two-day tripOther nearby attractions include:

• Gloss Mountain State Park, Fairview (off Highway 412): Walking/climbing trail leads to scenic outlook of the Red Mesas, picnic tables.

• Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum, Woodward: Pioneer and Native American artifacts; annual Paul Laune Memorial Art Competition featuring art from 45 area high school students during month of March; other exhibits monthly.

• Fort Supply State Lake, Fort Supply: Boating, camping, fishing and hunting.

• Fort Supply Historic Site, Fort Supply: 1869 stockade replica and commanding officer’s quarters.

• Boiling Springs State Park, Woodward: Camping, golfing, swimming pool, walking trails and yes, boiling springs.

• Selman Bat Cave, Freedom: Bat watching in July; Thurs., Fri., and Sat. evenings only; reservations required by registration; limited spots chosen by lottery-type system; register early at wildlifedepartment.com; or call 405-424-0099 for a registration form.

• Little Sahara State Park, Waynoka: Walking trails, guided tours, camping, picnicking and dune buggy trails (must bring own vehicles).

• Great Salt Plains State Park, Cherokee: Selenite Crystal digging (bring own digging supplies). Begins April 1.

• Sod House Museum, Aline (south of Cherokee): Last standing “soddy” built in 1894 by land-run pioneer, Marshal McCully.

Besides camping as stated above, hotels or bed and breakfast accommodations are available in Woodward. Visit woodwardchamber.com for information.

with

Enjoy the family fun of

This Oklahoma travel guide features dozens of ideas for exploring nature with your kids and the money-saving Kids Pass that includes over 30 coupons to attractions across the state.

Find the digital edition and instructions about where to � nd a print copy at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma

Co-sponsored by

Boiling Springs State Park north of Woodward

SesameStreetLive!Calling all super heroes! Super Grover needs help—and it’s Elmo to the rescue when Sesame Street Live’s “Elmo’s Healhy Heroes” zooms into Oklahoma City. Join Elmo, Zoe, Abby Cadabby, Telly Monster and Zoe’s pet rock Rocco at Cox Convention Center from Thursday, March 24 through Sunday, March 27.

Your favorite Sesame Street friends will explore exercise, nutrition, sleep/energy and hygiene—all in a quest to put the “super” back in Super Grover. The show features an array of popular songs and will teach children lessons in healthy habits that they can use long after the show ends.

Performances will be held Thursday at 7:00pm; Friday at 10:30am & 7:00pm; Saturday at 10:30am & 2:00pm; and Sunday at 1:00pm and 4:30pm. Tickets begin at $13 and a special $50 Sunny Seat package features front row seats and a pre-show Meet & Greet with two Seasame Street Live friends. For information, visit sesamestreetlive.com.

AMammothSleepover!When the doors close, the fun begins! Join the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History for a night of gallery-inspired games and exciting activities. Before bed, you can catch a movie in the museum’s Great Hall. Then, doze off with the dinosaurs in the Gallery of Ancient Life. The sleepover is designed for children 6-12, and one parent for up to three children is requested. $25 for members, $35 for non-members and pre-registration is required (call 405-325-1008). For more information, visit snomnh.ou.edu.

Photo courtesy of Oklahoma History Center


CowboyRound-UpThe Cowboy Round-Up at the Oklahoma History Center gives kids of all ages a glimpse of life on the cattle drive. On March 19 from 10:00am-2:00pm, families can enjoy living history as they work the chuck wagon in a 1870s cowboy camp, learn to rope, brand, and more. Kids receive FREE admission with paid adult admission, and are encouraged to dress as cowboys and cowgirls. Kids in costume can in a fun contest for a chance to win a family membership! The Cowboy Round-Up is part of the History Center’s Family Saturdays program, providing special programs and activities designed especially for families on the third Saturday of every month. For more information, call 405-522-0765 or visit okhistorycenter.org.

Photo courtesy of Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

FamilyDayattheFredJonesJrMuseumofArtFamilies are invited to explore the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art’s new exhibition Mediterranea: American Art from the Graham D. Williford Collection at a special Family Day event. Scheduled for Sunday, March 27 from 1:00-4:00pm, Family Day will include FREE museum admission, hands-on art activities for all ages and opportunities to explore art from around the world in the museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions.

On display from March 5 through May 15, the Mediterranea exhibit explores the major cultures and monuments of the Mediterranean region through the paintings of American artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and provides contemporary viewers with an exploration of the ways American artists understood, interpreted and portrayed Mediterranean culture. For more information, call 405-325-4938 or visit ou.edu/fjjma

Photo Credit:George Peter Alexander Healy (U.S., 1913-1894) Arch of Titus, 1871 Oil on canvas, 40½ x 29½ in. Courtesy of the Jean and Graham Devoe Williford Charitable Trust


ElephantHabitatOpeningattheZooOn Friday, March 11, the Oklahoma City Zoo will unveil its new Elephant Habitat to friends and fans. A special Elephant Pavilion will seat 400+ people and feature daily behavioral presentations such as baths, foot care and training sessions and allow Zoo guests to interact with the elephant keepers. The new habitat is inspired by the Zoo’s dedication to the conservation and preservation of elephants in the wild and zoo environments, as well as the need to raise awareness of these magnificent animals and the challenges theyface for their survival. Visit okczoo.com for more details.

Elihu Vedder (U.S., 1836-1923)Windswept Olive Trees, Bordighera, 1872Oil on canvas, 8½ x 16½ in.Courtesy of the Jean and Graham Devoe Williford Charitable Trust


QuickReferenceAmerican Banjo Museum9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC604-2793, banjomuseum.org

City Arts CenterFair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC951-0000, cityartscenter.org

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond27 E Edwards, Edmond340-4481, edmondfinearts.com

Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art555 Elm Ave, Norman325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum13th & Shartel, OKC235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com

Myriad Botanical GardensClosed for renovations; opening in 2011.297-3995, myriadgardens.com

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum1700 NE 63rd St, OKC478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org

Oklahoma Aquarium300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks918-296-FISH, okaquarium.org

OKC Museum of Art415 Couch Dr, OKC236-3100, okcmoa.org

OKC National Memorial620 N Harvey, OKC235-3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org

OKC Zoo2101 NE 50th St, OKC424-3344, okczoo.com

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre2501 N Blackwelder, OKC606-7003, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

Oklahoma History Center800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC522-5248, oklahomahistorycenter.org

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu

Science Museum Oklahoma2100 NE 52nd St, OKC602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org

Do you have an event for our calendar?

Send an email to [email protected]

Weekly EventsFREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is an interactive story time held outside Sears in Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm. Activities include Art Adventures for children ages 3-5 with adult (10:30am) & Tuesday Noon Concerts 30-minute musical performances by the University of Oklahoma School of Music students & faculty.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) 4:30-8pm every Tuesday & Thursday. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

Toddler Time at the Mustang Recreation Center at Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) is held every Tuesaday & Thursday & allows toddlers & young children to run, climb, & play on an indoor playground. Parent or guardian must remain with child. FREE with community center membership, or $2 per child. 9am-Noon. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. For all ages. Held every Wednesday of the month. 231-8650.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

Fun Friday Preschool Activities at Mustang's Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) includes fun activities, crafts, games & snack each week for children ages 6 & under with parent. $3 per child. Fridays, 10:30am. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under. 359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) each Saturday, 10:15am. 842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

FREE 1-2-3 Play With Me at the Warr Acres Library for children ages 4 & younger with caregivers. Saturdays, 10:30am.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202.

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Ages 3 & up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Saturdays, 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13. The “Gang” works on conservation projects in Martin Park Saturdays from 2-5pm throughout the school year. 755-0676.

Silly Sundays at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) every Sunday, 1-6pm. FREE face painting with paid admission or craft purchase. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center. Guided park tour & nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm. Reservations & $2 free required. 755-0676.

Ongoing Events March 5-May 15Mediterranea: American Art from the Graham D. Williford Collection at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art explores the major cultures &monuments of the Mediterranean region through the paintings of American artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Opening reception 3/4, 7pm.

Through March 6Whole art exhibit in the Governor's Gallery on the 2nd Floor of the State Capitol features the art of OKC sculptor Don Narcomey and his use of elements from nature. Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm. 521-2931, arts.ok.gov.

Through March 9Oklahoma Youth Expo Western Art Show at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum exhibits the top award-winning entries from the youth art show.

Mar 11-May 11Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit at the Science Museum Oklahoma includes colorful collaborations by students throughout Oklahoma who are exploring diversity through the arts. FREE with paid museum admission. 359-0369, respectdiversity.org.

Through March 14Visions of Reality at the Gaylord Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features artist Greg Burns favorite landscapes and landmarks and his interpretation of reality. Born with Arthrogryposis, a muscle and joint disease that affects the use of his arms and legs, Burns draws with the pen in his hand and adds watercolor by holding the brush in his teeth.

Through March 19Art in the Schools Exhibit at the Edmond Historical Museum (431 S Boulevard) features works of 3rd & 4th graders from six Edmond elementary schools. Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm. edmondhistory.org.

Mar 24-Apr 3Native American New Play Festival presented by the


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MARch S M T W T F S

MetropolitanLibrarySystemmetrolibrary.org

Belle Isle ................5501 N Villa ..........843-9601 Bethany ...............3510 N Mueller ........789-8363 Capitol Hill ........... 334 SW 26th ..........634-6308Choctaw ................2525 Muzzy........... 390-8418Del City .................4509 SE 15th ..........672-1377 Downtown ............300 Park Ave ......... 231-8650Edmond .............. 10 S Boulevard ........ 341-9282Midwest City ........ 8143 E Reno .......... 732-4828Ralph Ellison ...... 2000 NE 23rd ..........424-1437Southern Oaks ...6900 S Walker ........ 631-4468The Village .......... 10307 N Penn ......... 755-0710Warr Acres ..........5901 NW 63rd ..........721-2616 Harrah ..............1930 N Church Ave..... 454-2001 Jones ......................111 E Main ........... 399-5471Luther .....................310 NE 3rd ........... 277-9967 Nicoma Park ..... 2240 Overholser .......769-9452Wright Library ... 2101 Exchange ........235-5035

PioneerLibrarySystempls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard .............. 300 N Main ........... 485-2275McLoud ...................133 N Main ...........964-2960Moore ................... 225 S Howard ......... 793-5100Newcastle ............ 705 NW Tenth ......... 387-5076Noble .......................204 N 5th .............872-5713Norman ................225 N Webster ........ 701-2600Purcell ................... 919 N Ninth ........... 527-5546Shawnee ...........101 N Philadelphia .....275-6353Tecumseh ...........114 N Broadway .......598-5955

OKC Theatre Company at the Civic Center Music Hall-CitySpace celebrates Native American playwrights with concert-style readings and a fully-staged production. 297-2264, okctc.org.

Through March 27Dr Pepper Vending Machine Art Contest at the OKC Zoo allows K-12 Oklahoma students to enter for a chance to win. Official entry forms and contest rules available at okczoo.com.

Through March 30Fishing opportunities at Arbuckle Country's Blue River (stocked weekly with brown and rainbow trout) and Turner Falls (stocked with rainabow trout) provide an ideal environment for fly fishing and standard fishing during cooler weather. arbuckles.com.

Through March 31Elephant Photo Safari asks OKC Zoo fans to visit one of the Photo Safari stations located in select metro-area Little Caesars stores, Quail Springs and Penn Square Malls and click a picture of yourself to email to the Zoo for a chance to win prizes.

Through April 3Passed to the Present: Prehistoric Casas Grandes and Contemporary Mata Ortiz Pottery Traditions at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art. FREE admission with Kids Pass! 405-878-5300, mgmoa.org.

Through April 17Mediterranean Treasures: Selections from the Classics Collection at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features 100 of the most significant objects from the museum’s classics collection, dating from between the 21st century BCE and the 3rd century CE, displaying the rich artistic and cultural diversity of the ancient Mediterranean region.

Through May 8American Indian Printmakers from The Silberman Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is the museum’s first exhibition to focus solely on the printmaking aspect of American Indian fine art.

George Nelson: Architect, Writer, Designer, Teacher at the OKC Museum of Art celebrates the birth of the iconic American designer in a comprehensive retrospective of his work featuring over 120 3-D objects, drawings, photographs and films.Jill Downen: COUNTERPARTS at OKC Museum of Art is the third installment of the NEW FRONTIERS: Series for Contemporary Art & exhibits ten architectural sculptures combining human anatomy with the constructed environment.

Through May 14Maggie Casey: Bearing the Echo of Proving Ground at the City Arts Center features the work of a leading contemporary fiber artist/sculptor who stretches thread through space and creates yarn drawings of objects that fill the capacity of a room.

Through May 15FREE Stare Stare Stereo at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a student-curated exhibition featuring items from the museum's permanent collection to compare and contrast, appreciate and analyze.

To Picture the Words: Artist-Illustrators from the Permanent Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum highlights the museum’s rich collections of original and published works by western illustrators.Allen True’s West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum focuses on life and work of the Colorado artist, illustrator, and muralist who became one of the great pictorial chroniclers of the American West.

Through November 13The Art of the Tool Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma combines form with function by examining the tools that creative professionals use. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through 2011The Uncanny Adventures of Okie Cartoonists at the Oklahoma History Center explores how Oklahomans have played a major role in the evolution of comic books, comic strips, & editorial cartoons.

Daily1 • TuesdayNational Pancake Day at IHOP restaurants, offer customers one FREE short stack of pancakes while accepting donations for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and other designated local charities. See website for details and locations. 7am-10pm. ihoppancakeday.com

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FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model every month. Held the first Tuesday of the month, 5pm. Quantities are limited. For ages 6-14. 840-9993, Stores.Lego.com.

American Musical Journey presented by Dallas Brass is a fun, fast-paced musical concert covering the time of George Washington to the present day at Westmoore High School Auditorium. $24.50 adult, $12.50 children. 7-9:30pm. 682-7579, occc.edu/cas.

FREE Seussville at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) celebrates Dr. Suess’ birthday with a parade of crazy socks, story time, face paining and cake. 6-8pm. 376-3411.

2 • WednesdayHorse Portrait at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway, Edmond) allows participants to follow along with local artists to create your own 16"x20" masterpiece. $35. 7pm. 513-5333, paintyourartout.net.

OKC Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers at the OKC Arena, 7pm. nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 3/6, 11, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 29.

2-6OKC Auto Show at State Fair Park includes exhibits, a children’s play area, skateboarding shows and exotic, antique and muscle cars. Wednesday, 5-9pm; Thursday-Friday, 11am-9pm; Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday 10am-6pm. okcautoshow.org.

3 • ThursdayOpole, National Philharmonic of Poland at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) performs their popular “Vienna Gala” program. $28-$68. 7:30pm. 285-1010, armstrongconcerts.org.

FREE An Evening with Thomas Jefferson at the Oklahoma History Center is a living history program discussing Jefferson’s role in the development of the new nation & his role as president. Q&A follows. Limited seating. 6pm.

3-6Little Women at UCO’s Mitchell Hall Theater is a timeless story of four young girls coming of age during the Civil War. $14. Thursday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 974-3375, uco.edu/cfad/events.

Two Stravinsky Operas: Le Rossignol and Mavra at the Reynolds Performing Arts Center present colorful folk takes with giant puppets, a mechanical bird, and a magical pagoda. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 325-4101, ou.edu/content/finearts/events.html.

4 • FridayForensic Science Day at the Science Museum Oklahoma teaches guests how evidence is collected, processed & used to solve crimes, plus forensic

science-themed activities. FREE with paid admission.

LUNAFEST hosted by World Neighbors at the Lyric Theatre features short films by, for, and about women. Proceeds benefit WOW! Work of Women. $25. Pre-screening cocktail reception, 6pm, films, 7pm. 418-0447, lunafest.org.

OKC Barons vs. Abbotsford Heat at the Cox Convention Center, 7:05pm. Tickets $14 and up. okcbarons.com. Other homes games this month: 3/5, 8, 11, 12.

4-5FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, thepaseo.com.

4-6Wrangler Timed Event Championship of the World at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie features 20 of the world's best cowboys competing in pro rodeo’s most unique event. $20 & up. Friday-Saturday, noon & 7:30pm; Sunday, 1pm. lazye.com.

Sweet Repeats Spring/Summer consignment sale. Edmond Armory, 600 S Bryant, Edmond. Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-3pm; Sunday, noon-3pm. Most items 50% off on Sunday. sweetrepeatskidsconsignment.com.

4-20Biloxi Blues presented by the OKC Repertory Theatre in the City Space at the Civic Center Music Hall is Neil Simon's Pulitzer Prize winning play about coming of age during the Depression and World War II. Rated PG. Friday 8pm; Saturday 4pm, 8pm; Sunday 2pm. 848-3761, cityrep.com.

Ain’t Misbehavin’ at the Poteet Theatre at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church is the rollicking, swinging, finger-snapping revue that is still considered one of Broadway's best. $20. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 609-1023, poteettheatre.com.

5 • SaturdayFight for Air Climb at the First National Center has participants climbing 29 flights of stairs to raise money for the American Lung Association. Preregister. $25. 7:30am . 748-4674, breathehealthy.org.

Heartland Outdoor “Wings to Fly” Run at Fort Reno benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation & includes free entertainment for all ages. $40 for 15K, $25 for 5K. Preregister at signmeup.com/74000. 9am. 262-6577, okchf.org

FREE Trout Fish Out at Yukon’s Robertson Activity Center Pond (Hwy 66 & Mustand Rd), where kids can fish and win prizes. 10am-1pm. 350-8937, cityofyukonok.gov.


FREE Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western History Museum invites kids to color a mural for the Museums’ education classrooms. Reservations encouraged, includes Museum admission. 10am-noon.

FREE Spaghetti Eddie in concert at Uptown Kids at Classen Curve. 10:45am-11:30am. 418-8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

Running of the Pigs at Mitch Park in Edmond includes the Swine Week 5K Run and Bike-a-Thon. $30. 8am. 471-9800.

FREE Public Opening of the New Black Mesa Exhibit at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History invites guests to enjoy the new large scale diorama showcasing the highest point in Oklahoma.

FREE Mardi Gras Parade through Downtown Norman (Main St from Pickard to Crawford) celebrates the theme of “Wearin’ O’ the Green, Purple and Gold.” 6:45pm. visitnorman.com.

Midori Plays Mendelssohn presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features Japanese violinist Midori. 8pm.

Lipizzaner Stallions at the OKC Arena features the skill and beauty of “the Dancing White Stallions” in an entertaining family experience. $22.50 & up, 50% discount for children 12 & under. 2pm & 7:30pm. 602-8700, theokcarena.com.

Jazz in June Fundraiser at the Santa Fe Depot in Norman, presents Meet Me on Bourbon Street with The Civilized Tribe Dixie Band. $25 in advance, $30 at door, must be 21 or over. 6-9pm. 325-2222, jazzinjune.org.

Great Escape at the Mustang Recreation Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) provides games, crafts, food and more with the theme of “Wild, Wild West” to allow parents to have a night out. Preregister. $15. 6-11pm. 376-3411.

Bullying Stops Here: Anti-Bulling Seminar at All American Martial Arts (4731 SE 29) gives young people & parents with the knowledge and tools to keep youth safe, including fi tness, self-confi dence, danger awareness and self-defense. Preregister. 11am-2pm. $15. aama2010.com.

Happy Birthday, Green Bambino! celebration at Green Bambino (5113 N Shartel) includes special birthday decorations, giveaways, and 15% off storewide in celebration of Green Bambino’s 1st birthday! See website for details. 10am-5pm. 848-2330, green-bambino.com.

5-6OKC Thunder Jr. Dance Clinic for boys & girls ages 6-17 to learn choreography and perform at halftime at a Thunder game. Preregister. Friday, 11am-3pm; Saturday, 1:30-3pm, performance at 6pm. nba.com/thunder.

6 • SundayBricktown Brawlers vs. Allen Wranglers at the Cox Convention Center is the city’s new indoor football league. $15 & up. 3:05pm 405-602-8557, bricktownbrawlers.com. Other home games in March: 3/13, 20.

Performing Arts Studio Winter Wind Concert Series presents singer-songwriter Audrey Auld. $15. 7pm. $15. 307-9320, thepas.org.

7 • MondayFREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in Norman on the fi rst Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

Book Signing with Victoria Tupper-Kirby at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in conjunction with the exhibition “Allen True’s West” features the artist’s granddaughter with her book Allen Tupper True: An American Artist. 11am-12:30pm.

8 • TuesdayLee Rucker and Friends at the UCO Jazz Lab features traditional jazz music from the early 1900’s performed by current and retired UCO faculty and alumni. $7. 7:30pm. 359-7989, ucojazzlab.com.

FREE Cloth Diaper Basics at Green Bambino (5113 N Shartel) helps interested parents learn about cloth diapering. No purchase necessary. Preregister. 6pm. 848-2330, green-bambino.com. Also held 3/30.

Pop Art Your Pet at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway, Edmond) allows participants to follow along with local artists to create their own portrait of a family pet. $35. 7pm. 513-5333, paintyourartout.net.

FREE Teens Movie Maker Book Trailer at the Moore Public Library gives teens an opportunity to learn to use Movei Maker to make a book trailer of their favorite book. Flip cameras will be available for use in the project. Preregister. 6-7pm.

9 • WednesdayFREE Cloth Diaper Basics Class at Green Bambino (5113 N Shartel) helps interested parents learn about cloth diapering. No purchase necessary. Preregister. 6pm. 848-2330, green-bambino.com. Also: 3/30.

10 • ThursdayHow Paleo-Indians Butchered Bison at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features Leland Bement of the Oklahoma Archaeological Survey describing the various techniques used by Paleo-Indians to butcher prehistoric bison. Preregister, adults only. $25 non-members, $20 members. 7:30-8:30pm.

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March 21 - April 292 ½ - 4 year oldsThurs. 4:00 - 4:30 • $45

3 - 6 year oldsTues. 7:00 - 7:30 • $45


11-13 • Fri-SunSpring Break Road Trip offered by the OKC Zoo offers participants an opportunity to visit 3 major zoos over a 3 day weekend, including the Dallas and Fort Worth Zoos. $290 per person, includes fees, zoo admissions, transportation, hotel stays, and some meals. Must be 18 or older to participate. Preregister. 405-424-3344, okczoo.com.

13-18 • Sun-FriFREE The Manding Jata Trio performs at various Metro Library locations all week. The group features West African music with uniquely arranged drum pieces & soaring female vocals. Downtown Library, 3/13; Edmond & Midwest City on 3/14; Ralph Ellison & Bethany Library on 3/15; Choctaw & Warr Acres on 3/16; Capitol Hill & Bell Isle on 3/17; The Village and Southern Oaks on 3/18.

14-16 • Mon-WedSpring Break Sewing Camp at the OSU Cooperative Extension Center (930 N Portland) lets students ages 10-18 design and sew their own creations. $30, must bring own supplies from list provided. Monday-Wednesday, 9am-noon. 405-713-1125, oces.okstate.edu.

14-17 • Mon-ThuFREE Spring Break Spectacular at the Edmond Historical Society and Museum (431 S Boulevard). features fun and educational activities centered on Oklahoma history. Daily, 10-11am. 405-340-0078, edmondhistory.org.

14-18 • Mon-FriSpring Break Escape at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History offers daily activities including art workshops, nature hikes, storytelling, a scavenger hunt and more! All programs are FREE with museum admission, but space will be limited for some activities. Daily, 10am-4:30pm. 405-325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu.

Spring Break Camp at City Arts Center for kids 5-7, 8-12, and 12 &over features various art techniques. $150. Before & after care available for an additional cost.

Sign up by March 5th for 10% early-bird discount. Daily, 9am-4pm. 405-951-0000, cityartscenter.org.

Oklahoma City Thunder Spring Break Camp at the Santa Fe Family Life Center (6300 N Santa Fe Ave, OKC) is open to boys and girls ages 5-16, all skill levels welcome. Each participant will receive a 2011 Thunder game ticket and a T-shirt. Daily, 9am-1pm. $165, $140 for Season Ticket Holders and Kids Club Members. 405-229-6919, nba.com/thunder.

Spring Fling Drama Camp at the NW Optimist Performing Arts Center (3301 NW Grand Blvd, OKC) invites participants to sing, dance, act, and take part in a musical revue to be performed for family and friends. Daily, 8am-5pm. $80. 405-841-2412.

Spring Break Day Camp at Cookieland in Newalla teaches what the Girl Scout Leadership Experience is all about. Indoor and outdoor activities include crafting, playing games, exploring science, and engineering fun. Registrations accepted until March 4. $125, plus $20 for transportation roundtrip from Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma (6100 N Robinson, OKC.) Daily, 9am-5pm. gswestok.org.

Spring Break Camp 2011: Prehistoric Adventure at the MAC in Edmond (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr) has children ages 5½-12 discovering extinct species, looking for fossils, going on a dinosaur hunt, exploring the ice age, games, arts & crafts. $150, $115 each additional child. Pre-register. Daily, 7:30am-5:30pm. edmondok.com/parks.

Spring Break Camp at Oklahoma Children's Theatre offers new and exciting experiences in drama education, including theater games and activities under the theme of Dragon Country. Daily, 9am-4pm. $150. Before and after care available for an additional fee. 405-606-7003, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

City of Mustang Spring Break Mini Camp at the Mustang Community Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) includes arts and crafts, games, and a fi shing derby sponsored by the Department of Wildlife for children grades K-5. Preregister. $90/week, $40/day. Daily, 7am-6pm. 405-376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

Spring Break Camp at the Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly Ave) features activities for children in grades K-5 such as a fi shing outing, crafts, games, leprechaun traps, a trip to Celebration Station, and an Easter Egg Hunt. $75 Yukon residents, $85 non-

residents, plus a fi eld trip fee. $10 discount for each additional child. Daily, 9am-4pm. 405-354-8442.

Spring Break Camp at Science Museum Oklahoma invites children in grades 1-6 to explore and enjoy science through a variety of fun activities. $235 non-members, $200 members. Daily, 9am-4pm. 405-602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org.

Norman Spring Break Camp at the 12th Avenue Recreation Center in Norman. Games, movies and activities for ages 6-11. Campers can be dropped off as early as 7am and picked up by 6pm. Cost is $25 per day or $99 for the week. 405-292-7275, normanfun.com.

Spring Break Blast 2011 at Andy Alligator’s Fun Park (I-35 & Indian Hills, Norman) allows visitors to purchase an Unlimited Fun Wristband and enjoy added attractions at no additional charge, including moonbounces, coloring contest, infl atable slides, pirate ships and more. Open at 10am daily. Unlimited Fun Wristbands, $24.95. 321-7275, andyalligators.com.

15-18 • Tue-FriSpring Break Day Camps at the OKC Zoo offer fun activities, zoo tours, up-close animal visits, crafts, games and more for children ages 4-11. $20 members, $35 non-members per day. Preregister. Daily, 9am-noon. 405-424-3344, okczoo.com.

Spring Break Art at the OKC Museum of Art invites children ages 5-7 and 8-10 to discover the museum’s special exhibitions and learn how to create their own masterpieces. Stop Motion Animation camp at the OKC Museum of Art allows students ages 11-13 to learn the process & art of stop motion animation. Daily, 9am-4pm. Before & after care available for additional charge. $120 members, $130 non-members. 405-236-3100, okcmoa.org.

17 • FridayFREE Spring Break Fun Day at St. Matthew United Methodist Church (300 N Air Depot, Midwest City) includes a variety of fun activities & lunch. Parent participation is required for up to age 5. Children in grades K-5 may be dropped off or parents can stay and play. 9am-3pm. 405-732-6831, stmatthew.org.

Spring Break Camps ListingSpring Break is almost here (for most public schools, March 14-18) and the Metro’s family attractions are offering a wonderful array of camps and activities to keep kids busy and learning.

BE SURE to enroll soon! These camps fi ll up fast and some have early deadlines. And when you enroll, be sure to let them know that you found out about the camp through MetroFamily!


a kooky, funky, R&B band whose members are always dressed as mummies. Show may contain mild adult content. $15 & up, 8-10pm. 297-2264, rose.edu.

Glass Pendant Workshop at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) create 4-5 beautiful glass pendants. This session for adults and ages 9 & up, if accompanied by an adult. 6-8pm. $48. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

10-12American Spirit Dance Company at OKC University features American dance from Hollywood to Broadway, though tap, jazz & musical theater dance. $20. Thursday-Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 208-5227, okcu.edu/ticketoffi ce.

11 • FridayNew Elephant Habitat Opening at the OKC Zoo allows visitors to see the new elephant habitat and welcome Asian elephants Asha and Chandra back to the city and their renovated home.

FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, 2ndfridaynorman.com.FREE LIVE on the Plaza held in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the 2nd Friday of each month includes artwalk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. plazadistrict.wordpress.com.

The Big Read Kick-Off Celebration at the Norman Public Library at the Norman Depot (200 S Jones). 7pm.

11-12Alice in Wonderland presented by Fine Arts Institute of Edmond at Hope Church of Christ stars 5th & 6th grade performers. Friday 7pm; Saturday 3pm, 7pm. $6.

Oklahoma Youth Expo at State Fair Park, is the largest junior livestock show. 235-0404, okyouthexpo.com.

11-13USTRC Winter Classic Team Roping at Lazy E Arena in Guthrie features cowboys compete in a sanctioned roping competition. 282-RIDE, lazye.com.

12 • SaturdayGirl Scout Workshop: Space Exploration at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History for Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors fulfi lls the necessary requirements for the Space Exploration Interest Project. $10 per scout includes admission, plus

1 adult per 10 scouts. Preregister. 10am-2pm.

Living Foods Workshop: Mexican Fiesta with Corinne Rice in south Edmond teaches how to make raw vegan versions of classic Mexican dishes. Call to register by 3/10. 1pm. $45. 971-4523.

FREE A Midsummer Night’s Dream Tour Performance by Reduxion Theatre at the Midwest City Library shares a lively take on Shakespeare's classic comedy for ages 6 & up. 2-4pm. “Shakespeare Improv” workshop for ages 15-18 at 11am.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Bluegrass Concert/Jam features 3 professional bluegrass bands in a family-oriented show at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th, Del City) $6. Children 12 & under FREE. 6:30-9:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org. Rascal Flatts, Luke Bryan and Chris Young in concert at the OKC Arena for the “Nothing Like This” Tour. $23 & up. 7:30pm. 602-8700, theokcarena.com.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra at the Sooner Theatre in Norman, features music from the Swing era. $30 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, soonertheatre.org.

CUT LOOSE! at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) free face painting 6-7:30pm, disco lights and dancing 7:30-8pm. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

12-26Museum Store Sidewalk Sale at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Store. Daily, 10am-5pm.

13 • SundayFREE New Growth Jazz Quartet at the Performing Arts Studio in Norman. Donations appreciated. 7:30pm. 307-9320, thepasnorman.org.

14 MondayChildren’s Painting Session at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway, Edmond) allows children ages 5-16 to create an acrylic painting on canvas in an artist-led session. $25. 10am-12pm. 513-5333, paintyourartout.net. Also held 3/16, 18.

15 • TuesdayArtist Printmaking Demonstration at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) offered in conjunction with the American Indian Printmakers from the Silberman Collection exhibition. 10-11:30am &1:30-3pm.

Tuesdays at Sundown at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum features Marna Davis of Hitchcock, Oklahoma, providing a primer on the “wilder side” of Victorian life-ranch women, entertainers

& saloon girls. 6:30-8pm. FREE for members, $5 nonmembers.

Family Night at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway, Edmond) allows families to create a family treasure on an oversized canvas. $75. 7-9:30pm. 513-5333, paintyourartout.net.

Anderson-Roe Piano Duo at the Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features two rising young stars. All ages. $15 & up. Tuesday, March 15, 7:30-9:30pm. 285-1010, armstrongconcerts.org.

17 • ThursdayFREE Family Game Night at Mustang’s Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) held the third Thursday monthly & offers a featured game each month, or bring your own. Children 10 & under must be accompanied by adult. 6:30-8:30pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

FREE Bug Fest at the Norman Public Library invites all ages to learn about the world of insects. Includes activities, exhibits, and an insect zoo! 9am-noon.

Irish Dancers at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond). 10:30am. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

17-192011 FIRST Robotics Competition at the Cox Convention Center. Under strict rules, limited resources, and time limits, teams of 25 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team

“brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a fi eld of

competitors. coxconventioncenter.com.

18 • FridayCentral Oklahoma Hemerocallis Society (Daylily Club) Meeting at the Will Rogers Garden Center. 6pm. 603-2225.

Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens a family-friendly movie in the museum’s Great Hall. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 & under FREE, $1 discount for members. Galleries open 5:30-7pm. Movie at 7pm.

19 • SaturdaySenior Citizen's Day at the OKC Zoo offers 65¢ admission for guests 65 and older.

Cowboy Round-Up at the Oklahoma History Center invites children to take a glimpse at life on the cattle drive by working the chuck wagon, learning to rope & more. FREE admission for children dressed as cowboys or cowgirls. 10am-2pm.


FREE Trip Around the World at the Bethany Public Library offers children in grades 3-6 a chance to learn about cultures in Asia, Africa & Latin America. Preregister. 2-3:30pm.

20 • SundayBeppe Gambetta at the Performing Arts Studo in Norman presents an evening of acoustic guitar music. $20. 7pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

March 21-26Just Between Friends Consignment Sale at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. Find coupon for FREE admission on p.15. Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. okc.jbfsale.com.

24 • ThursdayTaste of Yukon at Robertson Activity Center in Yukon offers a taste of 20 great local restaurants $8 in advance, $10 at door, Children 10 and under FREE. 5:30-7:30pm. 350-8937, cityofyukon.gov.

FREE Parenting Workshop at OKC Community College explores language and literacy. 7-9pm. 682-7561.

24-26UCO Kaleidoscope Dancers at UCO’s Mitchell Hall Theater features new and innovative choreography in a concert for all ages. $14 adults, $10 seniors, $4 students. 7:30pm. 974-3375, uco.edu/cfad/events.

24-27Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Healthy Heroes at the Cox Convention Center teaches lessons of healthy habits through song and dance. Thursday 7pm; Friday 10:30am & 7pm; Saturday 10:30am & 2pm; Sunday 1pm & 4:30pm. $13 & up. sesamestreetlive.com.

25 • FridayFREE Art After Hours at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a lecture featuring Romare Bearden: “A Stained Glass Brand of Cubism.” 6-7pm.

Teddy Bear Sleepover at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) invites kids to bring their teddy bears or other stuffed friend for games, crafts & pizza. Teddy bear stays overnight & child receives a photo of their teddy having fun the next morning. Preregister. Three sessions beginning at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm. $10. 376-3411.

25-26A Mammoth Sleepover! at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History allows children ages 6-12 to doze with the dinosaurs, watch a movie in the Great

Hall and enjoy games & activities. One parent for every three children requested. $25 members, $35 non-members. Friday, 5pm-Saturday 9am.

26 • SaturdayRun for the Dream 5K Run/Walk at Lake Hefner presented by the Beautiful Dream Society benefits victims of human trafficking in Lesotho, Africa. $25, ages 13 & up, $18, ages 12 & under. 8:15am. beautifuldream.tv.

Animal and Pet Enrichment Day at the OKC Zoo allows guests of all ages to enjoy activities, animal encounters & learn about animal enrichment. FREE with paid admission.

Basket Weaving Workshop at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art teaches children ages 16 & older basic basket weaving techniques to make a hand-woven solid-bottom market basket. $65 members, $75 for non-members, includes supplies. Preregister by 3/11. 10am-4pm. 878-5605, mgmoa.org.

FREE StoryTime with Sleeping Beauty at Uptown Kids. 10:30am. 418-8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

FREE MetroTechnology Center’s 2nd Annual Parent Academy features workshops on the hour from 10m-4pm covering topics including gang awareness, bullying, conflict resolution and school success. Registration required; call 595-4325 or visit metrotech.edu/community/prc.

FREE A Midsummer Night’s Dream Tour Performance by Reduxion Theatre at the Downtown Library shares a lively take on Shakespeare's classic comedy for ages 6 & up. 2-4pm. “Shakespeare: Making the Language Connection” workshop for adults & teens at 11am. Workshop & performance also held at the Village Library, 4/23.

26-27Mozart’s Requiem at the Civic Center Music Hall performed by the OKC Ballet, the OKC Philharmonic, and the Canterbury Choral Society. Saturday, 8pm; Sunday 2pm. 848-8637, okcballet.com.

27 • SundayFREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art explores the museum's permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, with hands-on art activities for the entire family. 1-4pm.Earlywine Dash 5K and1 Mile Run benefits the Earlywine Elementary School and Earlywine Park YMCA. $25 in advance, $30 on race day. Sunday Nap Option $10 donation, no running. 2pm. 378-0420, ymcaokc.org/earlywinedash. See p. 14 for more information.

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29 • TuesdayFREE 10th Annual Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit Gala at the Science Museum Oklahoma showcases the work of students exploring diversity through the arts as well as an awards ceremony, performances, and presentations. RSVP to [email protected]. 359-0369. 5pm. respectdiversity.org.Ferdinand the Bull at the OKC Community College presents a story of family, fl amenco & fl owers as a part of the Cultural Art Series for Young Audiences. $8. 7pm. 682-7579, occc.edu/CAS.

30-April 9Boeing, Boeing at Lyric at the Plaza is the Tony Award-winning comedy of a handsome bachelor juggling three international fl ight attendant fi ancés. Rated PG13. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. $40. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

31-April 3Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo at the Oklahoma State Fair Arena. 282-RIDE, dncfr.net.

April 1Science Night: Shine On! at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, teaches children ages 5 & up the basics about electronics. $10 members, $12 nonmembers, includes pizza dinner and take-home project. One adult for every two children is requested. Preregister. 6-8:30pm.OKC Barons vs. Rockford Ice Hogs at the Cox Convention Center. Tickets $14 and up. 7:05pm. okcbarons.com. Also playing 4/2.

April 1-2Irving Berlin—From Ragtime to Ritzes presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features the music of Irving Berlin. 8pm.

April 1-3The OKC Home Show at Oklahoma State Fair Park includes celebrity guest speakers & over 200 interior decorating & remodeling experts. Friday, 12-9pm; Saturday 10am-9pm; Sunday 10am-6pm. homeshowokc.com.FREE The Medieval Fair of Norman features a medieval village of over 200 arts and crafts booths offering unique handcrafted wares and many other activities. Recently selected as one of the top 100 events in the nation. Reaves Park. Daily 10am-7pm. medievalfair.org.

April 1-10The Wedding Singer at the Sooner Theatre in Norman is based on the popular movie. Rated PG. $20 & up. Friday and Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 321-9600, soonertheatre.org.

April 2FREE Baby and Toddler Expo at the Cox Convention Center presented by the Children's Hospital for new and expectant parents includes community resources, educational seminars, vendors & more. 9:30am-5pm. oumedicine.com/babyexpo. FREE Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum invites children ages 4-12 to celebrate spring by crafting a washcloth bunny. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Preregister, includes museum admission. 10am-noon.

April 2-3FREE Twister Agility & Dog Sports Trial at the Lazy E Arena features trained dogs completing an obstacle course in a race against the clock and pursuit of accuracy. 482-RIDE, lazye.com.

April 3Bricktown Brawlers vs. Colorado Ice at the Cox Convention Center. 3:05pm. 602-8557, bricktownbrawlers.com. Also playing 4/23.

Eroica Trio at the Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) is a Grammy-nominated piano trio playing great standards & daring contemporary works. 7:30pm. $20 & up. 7:30-9:30. 285-1010, armstrongconcerts.org.

April 5FREE Quail Springs Mall Family Night includes free entertainment, prizes, crafts and more. 5:30-7:30pm. 755-6530, quailspringsmall.com.

April 9FREE A Midsummer Night’s Dream Tour Performance by Reduxion Theatre at the Downtown Library shares a lively take on Shakespeare's classic comedy for ages 6 & up. 2-4pm. “Comedic Combat” workshop for ages 6-14 at 11am.

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Beautiful Babies Abound!

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gallery at metrofamilymagazine.com/february-2011-photos.

Would you like to see your kids in our magazine or online photo galleries? For our April issue, we'd like to see how you

spent your Spring Break. Whether you take a family vacation, visit local attractions or spend time at home, send us photos of your Spring Break adventures and we'll feature them all online and select a few to print in our April issue. Deadline

for photo submission is Wednesday, March 23. Photo submission guidelines and a form to submit your photos can

be found at metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

MetroFamily OKC Baron's Family Fan of the Game!Congrats to this month's winning family, pictured here.

Go Barons!


725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103405-601-2081 • metrofamilymagazine.com • [email protected]

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