metrofamily magazine march 2012

March 2012

metrofamilymagazine.com

Family

Fun It's serious

businessDozens of practical

tips to increase your family's fun factor

Spring Break Camps & Activities

+181 events to enjoy in our

calendar

AttendMetroFamily's

held March 24!See page 31 for details.

2 www.metrofamilymagazine.com | March 2012

http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com


Clickwhat’s new at metrofamilymagazine.com

•

Join the MetroFamily community of active local parents at

You could WIN big!Sign up to be eligible for these great prizes at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.•Winoneoftwofamilyfour-packsofticketstoSesame Street Live: Elmo Makes MusicscheduledfortheCoxCenterfromMarch16-18.DeadlineisMarch8.

•Winoneoftwofamilyfour-packstoopeningnightoftheshowSTOMP!broughttotheCivicCenterMusicHallbyCelebrityAttractionsfromMarch13-18.DeadlineisMarch8.

•OurFebruary Giveaway featuresmanyfantasticfamily-andkid-friendlyproducts.Valueisover$250.DeadlineisMarch22.

•TheFamily Game Night Giveaway #2($121value)continuesthroughMarch15.

•WatchMetroFamily’sappearanceonFOX25’smorningshowmid-monthandentertowinaprizepackofcoolProblem-Solving Products.

You could SAVE big!Find coupons to the businesses listed below at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-family-discounts.•KellyHaines,familyhairstylist•DanielsCompoundingPharmacy•GreenGoodies•GuitarforKidsSchoolofRock•TheVintagePearl•CollegeNannies&Tutors,Edmond•ClubZ!in-hometutoring•MuseumofOsteology•GattiTown•SkillsforLiving•Bouncin’Craze• PlayNationplaygroundsets• Jump!ZonePLUS,saveatover30OklahomaattractionswithKids Pass, downloadableatwww.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass!

CALENDAR DIRECTORIES BLOGS CONTESTS MOTHER LODE

We're now on Pinterest! Top picks on our website this month

• SpringBreakCampGuide• SpringBreakActivitiesGuide• EasterFunGuide•NEW“SimpleScience”columnprovideshands-onexperimentstomakesciencefun!

•ANDMORE!Therearehundredsofreasonstovisitoursitedaily!

Followusatpinterest.com/metrofamilyandyou’lllearnaboutthebestOKCfamilyfunideas,easyExploringOklahomatrips,andfamily-friendlyrecipesandcrafts.Whatafunwaytouseandshareourrelevant,localcontentwithyourPinterestfriends.

Mark your calendar now for MetroFamily’s Kids Fest scheduled for Saturday, March 24th from 10am-4pm. WhatafabulouswaytocelebratetheendofSpringBreak!Findallthedetailsonpages31-38andfindacouponandmoreinfoonwww.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest.We’llseeyouthere!

Getyourhighlightersready,parents....OurpopularguidetosummercampsandactivitiesguideprintsinourAprilissue.Andifyourbusiness,churchornonprofithostsasummercampforanyage,besureyouareincludedbyinquiringbyMarch16th.Contactourofficeviainfo@metrofamilymagazine.comor405-601-2081.


http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests


http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-family-discounts

http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/okc-family-discounts

http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass

http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-pass

http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest


mailto:[email protected]

March 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com 5

6 Dear MetroFamilyEditor’sNote.

8 Family ShortsCommunitynews,resources&otherfamily-friendlyinformation.

18 Real Moms of the MetroMeetMorganHarris:momandentrepreneur.

20 Oklahoma ReadsGreatreadsforall.

22 Exploring Oklahoma FamilyfunontheOklahomaRiver.

24 Ask the Expert Howtohandlealyingchild.

28 Question of the MonthWhatdoesyourfamilydoforfun?

30 Problem Solving Products

39 Character CornerEncouragingorderliness.

40 Focus on EducationHavingfunwithlearning.

48 Your Healthy FamilyGettingfitasafamily.

51 CalendarFunevents,activitiesandclasses.

62 Photo Gallery Ourreaderssharetheirfavoritefamilyfunphotos.

Springbreakisrightaroundthecorner.Didyoumakeplans?FindourSpringBreakGuidehere!

ON OUR COVER: On the cover: Leacie, age 7, is the daughter of Jason and Christa Pratt of Tuttle. She is a homeschool student in the second grade. PHOTO BY: Kathryne Taylor

ContentsMarch 2012

LearnaboutCitizensCaringforChildren—localcharityand2012RedbudClassicbeneficiary.

26

4246

Why it’s important to boost your family's fun quotient.

FindthedetailsaboutKidsFest(March24th),includingwhatyoucando,seeandexperience!31



Info And Questions:405-601-2081To submit events to our [email protected]

Publisher SarahL.Taylor

[email protected]

EditorMariM.Farthing

[email protected]

Art DirectorKathryneTaylor

[email protected]

Advertising SalesAthenaDelceDanaPrice

[email protected]

Office and Distribution ManagerKathyAlberty

[email protected]

Assistant Editor & Online Content ManagerBrookeBarnett

[email protected]

Calendar EditorSaraRiester

[email protected]

Special Projects AssistantTerriFields

InternsJanettaBridges,RoxanneNguyen,AlexandraBryan

Contributing WritersBrookeBarnett,LanceEvans,ShannonFields,SarahHolmes,KristenHoyt,MaliaJacobson,

KarenMitchell,T.DarleneThompson

Circulation35,000–OKC,Edmond,NicholsHills,Norman,Moore,MidwestCity,YukonAlso available as a digital edition at

MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

ArticlesandadvertisementsinMetroFamilydonotnecessarilyreflecttheopinionsofthemagazineorInprintPublishing,Inc.Wedonotassumeresponsibilityfor

statementsmadebyadvertisersoreditorialcontributors.TheacceptanceofadvertisingbyMetroFamilydoesnotconstituteanendorsementoftheproducts,services,orinformation.Wedonotknowinglypresentanyproductorservicewhichis

fraudulentormisleadinginnature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly byInprintPublishing,Inc.

725NW11th,Suite204•OklahomaCity,OK73103Fax:405-445-7509

E-mail:[email protected]

©InprintPublishing,Inc.2012,AllRightsReserved.Volume15,Number3

Photos, from top: TonyandIarerockingitlikeitwas1992!Anditwas.SpencerandLaurentookadvantageoftheunseasonablywarmweatherbyplayingatAndrew’sParkinNorman.Findmoregreatlocalparksonthismonth’sTop10list(page12).

DearMetroFamily,

Lifepassessoquickly,doesn’tit?It’sbeen20yearssinceImetmyhusband—ourfirstdatewasonLeapDay(February29)in1992,andweweremarriedafewshortmonthslater.Itseemsalifetimeago!And,really,itwas;thelifeofouryoungerselves,beforewewereparents.Thismilestoneismakingmethinkbackabouttheeventsandlessonsthathavebeenapartofmylife.

Whatthesepast20yearshavetaughtmeistheimportanceofspendingtimetogetherasafamilyandmakingthemostofthattimethatwedohavetogether,whichseemstobeevermorerare.Havingfuninthesmallest,mostordinarymomentshelpstodrawustogetherandkeepusclose.Andthismonth,you’llfindafeatureabouttheimportanceoffamilyfun.Theexpertsagree—havingfuntogetherasafamilyresultsinhealthydevelopmentandcreatesaclose-knitbond.

Mychallengeforyouthismonthistofindawaytohavefuninallthatyoudo,whetheryou’reworkingorplaying.Thereisnoshortageoffamilyfuninourissuethismonthandalsoonourwebsite(www.metrofamilymagazine.com).Anddon’tforgetthefamilyfunavailableatourownKidsFestonMarch24!

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.














Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

Food Pantry to Benefit Moore TeensBy T. Darlene Thompson

Thereareanestimated100studentsatMooreHighSchoolwhoareeitherchronicallyhungryordonotgetenoughfoodtomeetnutritionalneeds.TheMooreHighSchoolAlumniAssociationhasjoinedforceswithMooreHighSchooltolaunchafoodpantrycalled“TheLion’sDen”tohelpmeetthisneed.Thisnon-profitfoodpantrybeganprovidingfoodforjuniorhighandhighschoolstudentsinneedinJanuary2012.“Ourgoalistoreachouttokidsincrisis,”saidJudyBradley,presidentoftheAlumniAssociation.“Everystudentwhoisreferredtothefoodpantryreceiveshelp.”TheLion’sDenisoperatedbyagroupofvolunteerhighschoolseniors,whogatheronceperweektopre-packagesacksoffoodaccordingtothenutritionalguidelinesofferedbytheRegionalFoodBank.EachFriday,studentsinneedcancomebytheLion’sDenandreceiveasackoffoodtotakehome.

TheLion’sDenhasreceivedgrantfundingthrough2012.Familiesandinterestedindividualscanhelpthisprojecttocontinueintofutureschoolyearsbydonatingfood,cashorbyvolunteeringtheirtime.Youcandonatefundsatwww.moorealumni.comordropoffnon-perishablefooditemsatMooreHighSchool.Formoreinformation,visitwww.moorealumni.comorwww.facebook.com/MooreAlumni.

Child Abuse Prevention Month Seeks Community InvolvementSmall,positiveactionscanmakeadifferenceinthelifeofachild.AprilisChildAbusePreventionMonthandtheOklahomaStateDepartmentofHealth(OSDH)encouragesustotakeactiontoraisesafe,healthy,resilientchildren.TheOSDH’sFamilySupportandPreventionServiceofficeoffersthefollowingtips:• Helpyourchildrenfeellovedandsecure,evenwhenthey

dosomethingwrong.• Encourageyourchildrenbypraisingtheirachievements,

talentsandefforts.Recognizetheskillstheyarelearning.• Spendtimewithyourchildrendoingthingsthatyouboth

enjoy.• Learnhowtousenonphysicaloptionsfordisciplinethatare

appropriateforyourchild’sageanddevelopment,and/orredirectyourchild’sattentionbyofferingpositivechoices,anduse“timeout”asanageappropriatedisciplinemethod.

• Seekhelpifyouneedit.Sometimesspecialcircumstanceslikeunemploymentorachildwithspecialneeds,canaddstresstothefamily.

TheOSDHalsoencouragesyoutogetinvolvedinpreventingchildabuseinthecommunityby:• AttendingChildAbusePreventionDayattheOklahoma

StateCapitolonTuesday,April3.• Participatinginthe“BuildaBlueRibbonTreeforKids”

campaign.Theblueribbonistheinternationalsignforchildabusepreventionandservesasareminderofourresponsibilitytoprotectchildren.Findahighlyvisiblespottoplaceablueribbontreeandaddablueribbontoshowsupport.

• GettinginvolvedintheOklahomaCourtAppointedSpecialAdvocate(CASA)volunteerprogram(www.oklahomacasa.org)orPreventChildAbuseOklahoma(www.pcaok.org).

Formoreinformation,contactyourlocalcountyhealthdepartmentorcall405-271-7611.

Fred Jones Museum Debuts Disney ExhibitionTheFredJonesJr.MuseumofArtis“allears”thisspringasitpremieresanewexhibitionofWaltDisneyanimationcels,includingMickeyMouseanddozensofcharactersfromclassicDisneyfilms.A Century of Magic: The Animation of the Walt Disney Studios, Animation Cels fromtheCollectionofJanisScaramucciandDomer“Jay”ScaramucciisopenfromMarch3–September16.“ChildrenandadultsalikewillenjoythislookatMr.Disney’smagicalworldofanimation,”saidGhislaind’Humières,museumdirector.“Asamatteroffact,weareusingthisopportunitytolowertheartworkabitforouryoungervisitors.”Throughoutthespring,themuseumwillhostmultiplefreeprogramsaroundtheexhibition.EventsheldinMarchincludeafreescreeningof101 Dalmations(Saturday,March10,10:30am)andaFamily Day withfreeadmissionsandhands-onactivities(Sunday,March11,1:00–4:00pm).TheFredJonesJr.MuseumofArt(555ElmAvenue)islocatedintheOUArtsDistrictontheUniversityofOklahoma’sNormancampus.Formoreinformation,call405-325-4272orvisitwww.ou.edu/fjjma.

© Disney, Briar Rose with “Animal Prince”Sleeping Beauty, 1959, Ink and gouache on celluloid, 11 x 14 in.


http://www.moorealumni.com

http://www.moorealumni.com

http://www.facebook.com/

http://www.oklahomacasa.org

http://www.oklahomacasa.org

http://www.pcaok.org

http://www.ou.edu/fjjma


Get Messy to Fight Childhood ObesityChildhoodobesityisagrowingepidemicintheUnitedStates,withOklahomaweighinginasthesixthmostobesestateinthenation.Overweightchildrenandadolescentsareatriskforhealthproblemsincludingcardiovasculardisease,highbloodpressure,highcholesterolanddiabetes.Overweightchildrenandadolescentsarealsomorelikelytobecomeobeseasadults,carryingmanyhealthrisksandissuesintoadulthood.ButonelocalmanishopingtochangethatwithanewfundraisingeventcalledtheBedlamMudRun.BenCordle,ownerofLemonTreeNutritionLounge(10600SPennsylvania,OklahomaCity)isplanningamudandobstaclecourse5KruntobeheldonSaturday,April14,2012attheLazyEArenainGuthrie.The2012BedlamMudRunstrivestoraise$250,000tofundprojectsinOklahomathatwillincreaseawarenessofchildhoodobesityandprovidegoodnutritionforunderprivilegedkids.SponsoredbyLemonTreeNutritionLoungeandHeloOklahoma,theMudRunwillalsoincludefamily-friendlyevents,aDJandinflatablesforchildren.Childrenareallowedtoparticipateandtheeventwilloccurrainorshine.“Wearethethirdmostunhealthystateinthenationandweareonamissiontochangethat,”explainsCordle.“Theproceedsfromtherunwillbeusedtofundprojectsthatnotjustraiseawarenessofchildhoodobesity,buttoactuallyfightchildhoodobesitybyprovidinggoodnutritiontounderprivilegedfamiliesandcreatingcommunityoutreachprogramsthatactivelyeducatefamiliesabouthowtogainaccesstobetternutrition.”Registrationandaresourcefairwillbeginat7:30am,withtherunbeginningat9am.Registrationis$55throughMarch31,and$60onraceday.Admissiontotheresourcefair,whichprovidesinformationaboutstatewideresourcesavailabletofamilies,isfree.FormoreinformationortopreregisterfortheMudRun,visitwww.bedlammudrun.com.

March of Dimes March for BabiesTheMarchofDimesseekstoimprovethehealthofbabiesbypreventingprematurebirths,birthdefectsandinfantdeath.Since1939,theorganizationhasworkedtofindcuresforchildhoodillnessandprovidecareforprematurebabiesandtheirfamilies.HowdoestheMarchofDimesimpactOklahoma?OnewayisthroughthePrematurityCampaign.Morethanoneinsevenbabies—7,436babieseachyear—arebornprematurelyinOklahoma.Prematurebirthcanresultinlong-termhealthissuesincludingcerebralpalsyandhearing,visionorbreathingproblems.Toreachtheirprogramgoals,theMarchofDimesreliesoncharitablecontributions.Eachyear,moneyisraisedthroughtheMarchofDimesMarchforBabies,whichtakeplacearoundthecountry,year-round.Fromeachdollarraised,77centsgodirectlytotheresearchandprogramstohelpprematurebabiesandtheirfamilies.Inthemetroarea,twowalksarescheduledforthespring:theNorman2-milewalkatAndrewsParkwillbeheldApril28at10:00amandtheOklahomaCity2-milewalkatStateFairParkwillbeheldMay5at9:00am.Thereare22otherwalksheldaroundthestate.Interestedwalkersareencouragedtosignupearlyandsetafundraisinggoal.Visitwww.marchofdimes.com/oklahomaformoreinformationortoregister.

Desperately Seeking Sleep: 10 Reasons Overtiredness Hurts KidsDoctorssaychronicovertirednessisrampantamongmodernkids.Leftunchecked,thishighlycommonconditioncancontributetohealthproblems,weightgain,emotionalproblemsandlearningdifficulties.Themoreyouknowaboutovertirednessandhowitaffectschildren,thebetteryou’llbeabletospotit—andstopthishealthsaboteurinitstracks.1. Tricky tots. Overtirednesscanbedifficultto

detect,becauseitcanlooklikehyperactivity,saysMaidaChen,MD,associatedirectorofthePediatricSleepCenteratSeattleChildren'sHospital.

2. School struggles. TheNationalSleepFoundationreportsthatsleepdeprivationinchildrenisassociatedwithpoorschoolperformanceandloweredtestscores.

3. Weighty matters. Accordingtonewresearch,sleepdeprivationincreasestheriskofobesitytwo-foldinchildrenandadults,andisassociatedwithexcessbodyweightinbothkidsandteens.

4. Diabetes danger. Newresearchshowsthatjustonenightofsleepdeprivationcanincreaseinsulinresistance,afactorintype2diabetes.

5. Too tired, too wired. Whenkidsareawaketoolong,anoverbalanceofadrenalinemakesitdifficulttoreachandmaintaindeep,restorativesleep,soovertiredkidshaveahardertimefallingandstayingasleep.

6. ADHD imposter. OvertirednesscanmasqueradeinahostofADHD-likesymptoms,andevenleadto“fauxADHD,”aconditioncharacterizedbybehaviorproblemsandlearningdifficulties.

7. Emotionally exhausted. Accordingtoanewstudy,toddlerswhomissnapshavetroubleexpressingemotions,whichhasalastingeffectontheirdevelopingbrains.

8. Night frights. Kidswhoareovertiredaremorepronetonightmares—doctorschalkthisuptothefactthatovertiredchildrenspendmoretimetransitioninginandoutofdeepsleep.

9. Fidgety legs. Overtirednessworsensthesymptomsofrestlesslegssyndrome,aconditionaffecting1.5millionchildrenandadolescents.

10. Early birds. Overtirednessisacommonreasonforwakingtooearlyinthemorning,becauseovertiredchildrenarelesslikelytostayasleepduringthenaturally-occurringperiodoflightersleepbetween4amand6am.

Thebestpreventionforovertirednessisalsothebestcure:anage-appropriatebedtimeandasolidbedtimeroutine.It’sasmallpricetopayforacalmer,happier,healthierchild.Malia Jacobson is a nationally-published sleep and health journalist and mom of two.


http://www.bedlammudrun.com

http://www.marchofdimes.com/oklahoma


Stop Counting Calories, Start Burning Fat“Thecurrentobesityepidemicprovesthatthetypicallow-fatdietrecommendationsandlow-caloriedietshavenotworked,”saidColoradoweightlossentrepreneurDonOchs.“Americaiseatinglessfatpercapitathanwedid30yearsago,yetobesity,diabetesandheartdiseaseareallup.”Insteadofcountingcalories,Ochsrecommendsminimizingstoredfatbyeatingfewerprocessedcarbohydrates,thecorrectamountofproteinandparticipatinginhigh-andlow-intensityexercise.• Eat what your ancestors ate. Refinedcarbohydratesincrease

bloodsugarlevels,triggeringinsulinproductionandresultinginfatstorage.Avoidtheobvious(sugarysoftdrinksandcandy)butalsowatchsneakycarbohydratesfoundincondimentsordriedfruits.

• Eat good fat. Lookformono-orpoly-unsaturatedfats,useoliveoilandeatfoodssuchasavocados,wholenutsandoccasionalfatssuchasbutterandcheese.

• Eat the right amount of protein. Eggs,beef,chicken,pork,seafoodanddairyaregoodsourcesofprotein,butportionsizesshouldbemonitored.

• Vary workouts to burn fat. Low-intensityexercisehelpstoreduceinsulinresistancesoyoustorelessfat.Alternatelow-intensitywithhigh-intensitytobuildleanmuscleandincreaseyourmetabolism.

“Healthyweightloss…isaboutdiscoveringtherightdietforyouruniquebody.Foreachperson,theoptimalamountofcarbohydrates,proteinsandexercisetoburnthemoststoredbodyfatwillbedifferent,”saysOchs.Don Ochs is the creator of Mobanu Integrated Weight Loss Solution (www.mobanuweightloss.com).

YWCA Capital CampaignIn2011,morethan25,000incidentsofdomesticviolencewerereportedinOklahoma.TheYWCAprovidesasafehavenandongoingcounselingforthesevictimsandchildren.Inthepast12years,956domesticviolencehomicidesoccurredinOklahoma,accordingtotheOklahomaDomesticViolenceFatalityReviewBoardandone-thirdofthesedeathswerewitnessedbychildren.TheYWCAOklahomaCityistheonlyemergencyshelterforvictimsofdomesticviolenceandtheirchildreninOklahomaCounty,butsadly,thesheltercannotmeettheneedsofthecommunity.TheYWCACapitalCampaignisseekingfundstohelpbuildalargershelter,repurposeanexistingshelterandrenovateanexistingbranchtoprovidegreaterresourcestowomenandchildren.“TheYWCAisalifelineforwomenandchildrenescapingdevastatingcircumstancesofdomesticviolenceandwehaveanethicalresponsibilityinourcommunitytotellthosefamiliesthatwebelieveinthemandwebelieveintheirsafety,”saysJanetL.Peery,ChiefExecutiveOfficerattheYWCAOklahomaCity.“Oursheltercurrentlystaysfull99.9percentofthetime.Thismeansvictimsaregoingunservedbecausethereisnotenoughroom.SowearegoingtostartbybuildinganewsheltertoexpandthereachoftheYWCAandensurethateveryonecanbeservedandthatfamiliesfromrighthereinCentralOklahomahavethechanceatthelivestheydeserve—livesfreefromviolence.”Visitwww.ywca.orgtolearnmoreabouttheCapitalCampaign,volunteerorfindalistofitemsthattheorganizationneedstomeettheneedsofthewomenandchildrenassistedbytheshelter.

50 Years of Poison PreventionIn2011,almost49,000callsweremadetotheOklahomaPoisonControlCenter.Sinceaccidents,medicationerrorsandinquisitivetoddlersareafactoflife,theCentermaintainsconstantoutreachandeducationeffortstohelpminimizethenumberofchildhood,adultandoccupationalpoisonings,aswellasprovideemergencytreatmentadvice.ThisMarchmarksthe50thanniversaryofNationalPoisonPreventionweekandthe50thbirthdayoftheOklahomaPoisonControlCenter.TodaythePoisonControlCenter,aprogramoftheCollegeOfPharmacyattheUniversityofOklahomaHealthSciencesCenter,isoneof57accreditedregionalpoisoncontrolcentersintheUnitedStates.NationalPoisonPreventionweekwillbeheldMarch18–24.The2012postercontestwinnerswillberecognizedatanawardsceremonyattheStateCapitolonMarch29.Thewinningentrieswillalsobeenteredintothenationalcontest.TheOklahomaPoisonControlCenterservesasavaluableresourceforOklahomans,providingimmediate,freeandexperttreatmentadvicewhenanactualorsuspectedexposuretopoisonous,hazardousortoxicsubstancesoccurs.Thehelpline(800-222-1222)isavailablearoundtheclock.ThePoisonControlCenteralsocommunicatespoisonpreventionmessages,tipsandimportantinformationthroughtheCenter’swebsite(www.oklahomapoison.org)orthroughFacebook.

Free Central Oklahoma Travel GuidesWanttoexploremoreinthelocalarea?TheFrontierCountryMarketingAssociation’s2012regionaltravelguideincludesinformationonattractions,diningandlodging,organizedbyregionandincludingwrittendescriptions,colorfulphotographsandmore.Requestyourguideatwww.oktourism.comor800-FUN-OKLA.


http://www.mobanuweightloss.com

http://www.ywca.org

http://www.oklahomapoison.org

http://www.oktourism.com

http://www.oktourism.com


Ten Great Parks and Playgrounds in the OKC MetroThecomingofspringbringsgreatopportunitiesforoutdoorplay!Inanticipationofbeautifulspringdaysspentplayingoutside,wepolledourreadersfortheirfavoriteparkstoenjoyintheOKCmetro.Heretheyare,inrandomorder:1. EarlywinePark(3101SW119thStreet,OklahomaCity)2. KidsplayPlayground(630NW5thStreet,Moore)3. HaferPark(1034SBryantAvenue,Edmond)4. ReavesPark(2501JenkinsAvenue,Norman)5. WildHorsePark(1201NMustangRoad,Mustang)6. LakeOverholser’sRoute66Park(9901NW23rdStreet,

OklahomaCity)7. MitchPark(301SBryantAvenue,Edmond)8. Andrew’sPark(201WDawsStreet,Norman)9. Children’splaygroundintheMyriadBotanicalGardens

(Reno&Robinson)10. BuckThomasPark(1903NE12thStreet,Moore)ThankstoTiffanyB.,MichelleW.,JenniferS.,EricaG.,MariF.,andKimberlyM.forcontributingtothislist.Joinusatwww.facebook.com/metrofamilytoshareyourthoughtsfornextmonth’slist.Haveaparkyou’dliketosuggest?Commentonourwebsiteatwww.metrofamilymagazine.com/local-parks

Where's your favorite hang out?

Music All Around UsBy Mari Farthing

ThedaymysonfirstlearnedaboutSTOMP,heplayeddrumsonthebackofmyseatonthewayhomefromschool.“Um,hello?Whatareyoudoing?”Iaskedhim.“I’mmakingmusic,Mom!Didyouknowthatyoucanmakemusicwithgarbagecans?Andbrooms?Andpencils?”Actually,Idid.IfirstsawSTOMPontourintheearly1990s,andwasexcitedtoseethatthegroupiscomingtotheOklahomaCityCivicCenterforeightperformancesfromMarch13–18.STOMPperformers“makearhythmoutofanythingwecangetourhandsonthatmakesasound,”saysco-creatoranddirectorLukeCresswell.Theshowhasbeenupdatedtoincludenewhighlighst.“STOMPhasevolvedagreatdealeversinceitsfirstincarnationattheEdinburghFestival,”saidco-creatorSteveMcNichols.AddingtooldfavoritesperformedwithZippolighters,trashcansandplasticbags,newperformancesfeatureitemssuchaspaintcansandinnertubes.Theshowiscommittedto“createrhythmicmusicwithinstantlyrecognizableobjects…withaneccentricsenseofcharacterandhumor.”LearnmoreaboutSTOMPatwww.stomponline.com.Tickets,$15andup,areavailablethroughwww.celebrityattractions.com.

Free Camps for Children of Single MomsTheBethelFoundation’smissionistoprovidesupportforsinglemothersthroughmentoring,rehabilitationandqualityhousingoptionsdesignedtohelpstrugglingsinglemothersgetbackontheirfeet.TheFoundationoffersassistancethroughahomeownershipprogram,scholarshipfunds,educationalconferences,accesstoclothingandfood,andfreecampsforchildrenofsinglemothers.Theorganizationisofferingcampsthisspringandsummeratnocosttothechildrenofsinglemothers:• Sassy Camp (March12–14)forgirlsages11–14includescrafts,speakers,informationonnutrition,goalplanning,self-esteem,home

safetyandmore.• Outdoor Overnight Adventure Camp (March23–25,June8–10orJuly13–15)forboysages6–16teachesfishing,camping,sports,

teamworkandmore.• Kids Rock Camp (June13–17orJuly16–20)forchildreningrades3–5whichteachesbasiccooking,nutrition,self-esteem,firesafety

andmore.Enrollmentformsareavailableatwww.bethelfoundationusa.comorattheBethelFoundationoffice(3003NorthWesternAve).Theorganizationalsoseeksvolunteersforactivitiesthroughouttheyear,aswellasmonetary,clothingorfooddonations.Formoreinformation,call405-286-3700orvisitwww.bethelfoundationusa.com.

Phot

ogra

pher

: Jun

ichi

Tak

ahas

hi


http://www.facebook

http://www.metrofamilymagazine

http://www.metrofamilymagazine

http://www.stomponline.com

http://www.celebrityattractions.com

http://www.bethelfoundationusa.com



We are pleased to introduce our newest monthly online column, Simple Science. We hope that these fun, educational experiments will be a great way to explore science with your kids in your own kitchen. Writer Steve Davala has taught 7th and 8th grade math and science for 12 years and is the father of two, who often serve as guinea pigs for these engaging science experiments.

“Children possess an inquisitive mind, and we, as adults, need to keep the opportunities coming, lest they lose that zest for learning,” Davala explains. “Science can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a great way to create powerful thinkers through well placed questions and activities.” Look for future science experiments on our website.

Exploring Air PressureEverhearabout“airpressure?”Hereisasimpleexperimentthatyoucanperformwithmaterialsfoundrightinyourkitchen.Themainlessonintheseexperimentsisthatairwantstotravelfromhighpressuretolowpressure.Thereisanoldsayingthat“naturedislikesavacuum.”Ofcoursethisisnotthecleaningtypeofvacuum,butthelack-of-airkind.Butwhatexactlyis“pressure?”Airpressureisbasicallytheamountofairinacertainarea.Likewhenyoufillaballoonoryourtiresonyourbike.Ifthereislittleairintheballoon,thereislittlepressure.Ifyoufillupaballoonithashighpressureinit.Ifyouletgooftheballoon,alltheairshootsout,spinningtheballoonallovertheplace.Thehighpressureairinsidetheballoonmovesto

thelowpressureairoutsideofit.Remember,highpressurewantstotravelfromhightolowpressure.Candle in a Plate of Water:Materials:• aplate• water• atallglass• alumpofclay• afewbirthdaycandles• matches(getyourparenttohelpyouout

withthis)• foodcoloring.Procedure:1. Pourwaterontoaplatesothatitfillsit

andaddadroportwooffoodcoloring.2. Stickacandleintoaballofclayand

placeitinthemiddleofyourplate.3. Youaregoingtoputthecupoverthe

topofthelitcandle,makeahypothesis/guessaboutwhatyouthinkwillhappen.

4. Lightthecandle.5. PutthecupoverthecandleYouwillseethecandleslowlyextinguishandthenthewaterwillcreepupintothecup.Prettyamazing!Howdoesitdothat?Thehotaircausedbythecandlespushesairoutfromunderthecup(hotairexpandsandcausesbubblesatthebottom).Assoonasthecandlegoesout,theaircoolsandcondenses,butnowthereislessairinthecupthanwhenitstarted.Thisislowpressure.Remembertherule?Theoutsideair(highpressure)wantstopushintothecup(lowpressure).Haveyourchildexperimentwithmoreorlesswater,ormorecandles.Availableatourwebsite(www.metrofamilymagazine.com/simple-science)thismonthisanotherexperimentdemonstratingairpressureandbesuretovisiteverymonthasnew,easy-to-doscienceexperimentsbySteveDavalaareposted.

Introducing Simple Science with Steve Davala


http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/simple-science




NW 13TH STREET & SHARTEL AVENUE • OKC405.235.4458 • WWW.OKLAHOMAHERITAGE.COM

Visit the Museum

FREE on Saturday, May 5!

Celebrate our 5th anniversarywith family-friendly activities.

EXPERIENCEOKLAHOMA

Bring in this ad for$2 OFF

ADMISSIONfor up to 4 people.

Expires Aug. 31, 2012

OR

through its people



Ifyouaskcloth-diaperingmothersinOklahomaCitywhotheyconsidertobethelocalclothdiaperguru,oddsarethey

willsayonename—MorganHarris.Harrisisalocalbusinessownerandawalking,talkingresourceonenvironmentallyfriendlyparenting.Havingrecentlyexpandedherstorelastfallintoaspacenearlythreetimesaslarge,thismotherofone(sonSpenceris4yearsold)promoteseco-parentingandhelpslocalparentsmakegreenerchoicesfortheirfamilies.Hereismoreonhowthe32-year-oldbalanceswork,lifeandherdrivetorunasuccessfulbusiness.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?I’malapsedscubadiver.IlivedinDahab,EgyptforawhileandlearnedtodiveintheRedSea.

How has motherhood changed you?Havingachildmakesiteasierformetoexpressmyemotions.I’veprobablytoldhimIlovehimmoreinjustamonththanIeversaidIloveyoutoanyoneinalltheyearsbeforehewasborn.Healsohelpsmeseethejoyineverydaythingsandremindsmetostayinthemomentandnotworrysomuchaboutthepastorthefuture.

How do you banish stress?Idon’thaveonespecificmethod.Makinglistshelpsmetostopworryingaboutgettingthingsdone;yogawhenstressgetsreallybad;takingtimeawayfromworktorefocus.

Along with your job as a mom, what do you do?IownGreenBambino,Oklahoma’slargestclothdiaperandeco-babyresource.

What do you like most about your job?IlovesharingproductsIloveandfindusefulwithotherfamilies.IlovethepassionourstaffandcustomersbringtowhatIdo.

What is on your wish list? Professionally,Iwouldlovetohavesomeoneswoopinandgete-commercegoingforGreenBambino.Personally,IreallywanttotakeafamilyvacationtoMontreal.

What are you most proud of?ThatIhavehadtheconfidenceandcouragetodoanythingIsetmymindto,nomatterwhatotherpeoplesaidatthetime.Livingabroad,naturalchildbirth,startingabusiness—sofar,Ihavenoregrets.

What motivates you?Fearoffailure.Insomeways,I’maperfectionistandcan’thandleitwhenIdon’tdothingstherightwaythefirsttime.

Where are you from originally? I’moriginallyfromOkmulgee.I’mreallygladIstayedinOklahomaandIlovelivinginOklahomaCity.Thereissomuchgoingonherenowandweloveraisingoursonhere.

What’s the biggest challenge in your life?LeavingGreenBambinoattheendoftheday.IlovewhatIdo,butIhavetorememberthatit’snotthemostimportantpartofmylife.

What is your parenting style?Idon’tthinkIfitintoanydefinedcategories.Icloth-diaperedandwearmyson,buthehassleptinhisownbedsincehewasthreeweeksold.Wetakepiecesfromdifferentparentingstylesthatworkforusandcobblethemtogether.Sofar,it’sworking.

Advice for other moms?Gethelp.Whetherit’sadoula,alactationconsultant,ababysitter,family,housekeepers,friends—itdoesn’tmatter.Butyoudon’thavetodoitallbyyourself.Noonewillthinklessofyouforaskingforhelp,andlifewillbeeasierandmoreenjoyableifyoudo.

Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?GiventhatIhaveapreschoolerwholikestoaskwhy,myfavoritequoteiscurrently“A person soon learns how little he knows when a child begins to ask questions.”–RichardL.Evans

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.

Real Moms of the MetroMeet Morgan Harris, Champion of Eco-Friendly Parenting

Phot

o by

Aim

ee A

dam

s • w

ww.

aim

eead

amsp

hoto

.com

Quick Facts About Morgan1. What are five words that

describe you? Loyal, tenacious, messy, stubborn, fair.

2. What’s your favorite indulgence? Salmon sashimi from Tokyo Japanese restaurant.

3. What’s your favorite TV show? Bones. I’m embarrassingly engrossed.

4. What’s your favorite meal to cook for dinner? Pork chops with Daddy Hinkle’s seasoning (made in Oklahoma) and polenta fries. Fast, easy and delicious!

5. What can’t you live without? My husband and son. And coffee.

Graham, Spencer, and Morgan Harris of Green Bambino.


http://www.aimeeadamsphoto.com




Reviews by Mari Farthing & Brooke Barnett.

Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for All

Early ReadersThe Girl Who Never Made MistakesByMarkPettandGaryRubenstein,illustratedbyMarkPett(SourcebooksJabberwocky,hardcover,$15)BeatriceBottomwellisa9-year-oldgirlwhohasnever,evermadeamistake—untilshedoes—andteachesreadersabouttheimportanceoflearning—andlaughing—fromyourmistakes.

The Busy Life of Ernestine BuckmeisterByLindaRavinLodding,illustratedbySuzanneBeaky(FlashlightPress,hardcover,$17)Afterjugglingadifferentactivityeachdayofheroverscheduledlife,Ernestinebreaksfreeforadayofplayingatthepark,remindingkidsandadultsalikeabouttheimportanceofincludingfunandsimplechildhoodwonderoneveryagenda.

Grades 2+Tuesdays at the CastleByJessicaDayGeorge(BloomsburyKids,hardcover,$17)ReadabouttheadventuresofPrincessCelie,wholivesinacastlethatchangesinamagicalwayeachTuesday.HowwillshesavethedaywhentheKingandQueenarekidnapped?ThePrincess’loveforthesecretroomsandtwistedpassagewaysjustmighthelp.

Mega Mash Up: Aliens vs Mad Scientists Under the OceanByNikalasCatlowandTimWesson(NosyCrowBooks,softcover,$7)Inthespiritofchoose-your-ownadventuretales,thisbookrequiresthereadertohelptocompleteit.Readersaregivenacastofcharacters,alistofnecessarytoolsandsuggestionsforparticipationbeforebeingletlooseinsidethisimaginativetalethatasksthemtodecidewhatkeypointsinthestoryshouldlooklike.

Grades 5+happyfaceByStephenEmond(HachetteBookGroup,softcover,$9)Ateen’sstoryoflove,lifeandlossastoldthroughhisillustratedjournal.Afteradifficultchangeofcircumstances,happyfacepurposefullychangeshisimagewhenhebeginsanewschoolyearinanewschool.Happyface’sjourneyreflectstheupsanddownsoflifeasateen.

AdultsBaby Codes: 101 Winning Combinations to Help Your Baby SleepByKevinMills(InkSwift,softcover,$11)Doesitseemasthoughgettingyourbabytosleepisataskthatyouwillnevermaster?Thisbookoffersacollectionoftipsaddressingsleepingroadblockswithanencouragingtone.

How to Exercise When You’re ExpectingByLindsayBrin,CPT,BSE(PlumeBooks,softcover,$16)Aprogramdevelopedbythe“MomsIntoFitness”founder,thisplanincludestipsongoodnutritionandexerciseoptionsgearedtowardwomenduringandafterpregnancy.Itincludeshelpfulinformationaboutprenatalnutritionalneeds,illustratedexercisemodificationsandexercisesthatwillkeepreadersconnectedtowhattheirbodiesarefeeling.

The Kid DictionaryByEricRuhalter(SourceBooks,softcover,$10)Doyoueverwishyouhadawordthatdescribedtheneedforparentstogivetheirkidatrophy,whethertheywonthecontestornot?Oronethatadequatelydescribedyourchild’spropensitytolaughattheword—oreventhoughtof—poop?Thisbookofferswordstodescribejustthosemoments(“Winnergy”and“Fecalarity,”respectively)andsomuchmore.

The Women’s Fitness Book(DKPublishing,softcover,$23)Feelingoverwhelmedbythefitnessinformationyouseeeachday?Thisbookaddressescoretopicsforwomenregardingexerciseandfitness,offeringmusclediagramsandillustratedroutinesthatwilldemystifyexercise.Startoutwithafitnesstest,discoveryourbodytypeandfitnesspersonalityandfindtheworkoutroutinethatworksforyou.

You Can’t Outsource Weight LossByEdBoullianne(BlueWaterHealthConcepts,softcover,$17)We’renearingtheendofthefirstquarterof2012;haveyoumadeadentinyourpersonalfitnessgoals?Perhapsit’stimeforarefresher.Inthisbook,theformerNavyCaptainauthorsharesthetoolsheusedtoloseweightandkeepitoff,includinginformationondecodingnutritionlabels,aBMIchartandsampleeatingandexerciselogs.

Book Series for Early and Advanced ReadersLookingforafunbookseriesforyouryoungestoryourolder,moredifficult-to-engagereader?Someideas:Belly Button Book!, Pajama Time! and Banyard Dance! bySandraBoynton(Workman,boardbooks,$10each)arethreeofBoynton'smostpopulartales.Theseoversizedboardbooksfeaturetheauthor'sinfectiousrhymes,lovableillustrationsandsturdypagesandareperfectforlittlehands.The Misfits (books 1 – 3) byMarkDelaney(PeachtreePublishers,softcover,$5+)featurefourteens(Peterthesmartone,Jakethejock,BytethecomputerwhizandMattiethemagician)whomaynotfitinwiththeotherkids,butwhocometogethertoformMisfitsInvestigations.



randycolemanphotography.com405•509•9395//studio 223 south walker [email protected]

photography for the artistically minded family





Exploring OklahomaFamily Fun on the Oklahoma River

Inourhome,theword“bored”isforbidden.Saythe“b”wordandI’llgetadustraginyourhands.Fortunately,thanksinpart

totheOklahomaCity’sMAPSprojects.TheOklahomaRiverneardowntownOklahomaCitysupportsaninvigoratingenvironmentwithactivitiestosatisfyrestlessenergylevelsandfightofftheforbidden“b”word.Thisspringbreak,getyourfamilytotheriverandgetcreativelyactive;there’ssomuchtodo!

Oklahoma River Trails and River AccessThirteenmilesofpavedrivertrails(sixmilesonthenorthsideandsevenonthesouth)areavailabletoallrunners,rollerbladers,skateboarders,bicyclistsandthosewithmobilityaids.Youcanaccessthenorthsidefromthreeparkingarealocations:• RegattaParkoffByersAvenue,justwestof

ByersAvenuebridge;• SW15thStreet,betweenWalkerand

Robinson;or• WheelerPark,SW9thStreetandShartel.Thesouthsidecanbeaccessedfromparkingareasat:• SW15thStreetandMeridian;• RiverParkatSW8thStreetandAgnew;• WileyPostPark,SW17thStreetand

Robinson;or• SW15thStreet,justeastofPortland.Whilepedestrianaccesstocrosstheriver(attimeofwriting)islimitedtotheRobinsonSt.overpassjustwestoftheChesapeakeBoathouse,theSkyDanceBridge,a380-footlong,landmarkpedestriancrossoverbridgeisscheduledtoopeninlatespring2012spanningthenewI-40crosstownhighway.

Oklahoma City Regatta Park/Boathouse DistrictWhatadifferenceafewyearsmakes!Thatwasmythoughtasmysister,AnitaZotto,andIventuredouttotheOklahomaRiver.Adecadeinthemaking,theboathousedistrictisgrowingcontinually.Havingalreadyearnedareputationasaworld-classtraininggroundforcollegiateandOlympicrowingathletes,theOklahomaRiver,withsupportfromtheOklahomaCityBoathouseFoundation,offersthepublicaccesstoavarietyofriveractivities.

Try It NowAlwayslookingfornewwaystoexercise,AnitaandIdecidedtousethe“TryItNow”passesavailablethroughtheOklahomaCityBoathouseFoundation’sRiversportprogram.Thesepassesallowuserstotrythreefamily-friendlyactivitiesforfree.Weredeemedourpasses(reservedaheadoftimeonline,butwalk-insarewelcome)attheChesapeakeBoathousewhereastaffergotusstarted.• Biking. Weworkedourlegstouringthe

riverfrontonthepavedtrailsusingbikesborrowedfromtheboathouse(youcanalsobringyourownbikes,whichIwouldrecommendasbikesarelimited).

• Paddle-Boarding. Next,weattemptedthestand-uppaddleboards(SUPs),alargesurf-likeboardyoustandorkneelonasyoupaddleupanddowntheriver—agreatcorestabilizingexercise.

• Kayaking. Lastly,wekayakedeastontheriver,touringthenewChesapeakeFinishLineTower,DevonBoathouseandKaBoomPlayground(designedbychildrenanderectedinonedaybyover300volunteers)—arelaxing,butgoodupper

bodyworkout.Whatafunandarefreshingchangefromtheroutineatthegym!

Try-It-Nowpassesareavailableyearroundforanynumberofactivities.WhilethewateractivitiesareavailableMarchthroughOctober,passescanalsobeusedtotryoutthefitnesscenter,yogaorindoorrowingclasses.

Learn to Row Yourfamilycantakeriversportingtoawholenewlevelbytakingadvantageofotherprograms,includingspringbreakcamps,suitableforages8andup.And,beginningthismonth,Riversportishostingfreeopenhousesforkidstolearnaboutrowing.Noexperienceisrequired.Parentsarewelcometomeetthecoachesandsprintteamathletes.Kidswillgetanintroductiontothesportandtakeanactuallessononthewater.Openhousesrunfrom10:00am–noon.Ifyourchildelectstoenroll,theoneandahalf-hourclassesmeettwiceaweekforonemonthwithsessionsofferedMarch17throughthelastweekofAugust.

Oklahoma River CruisesRivercruisesareanotherriveractivityworthexperiencing.Beginningin2008,MetroTransit,throughapartnershipwithHMSGlobalMaritime,beganofferingpublictransitferryservicealongaseven-milerouteontheOklahomaRiver.Today,three

Map im

age courtesy of OKC

Parks and Recreation.

There are many access points and parking areas along the Oklahoma River.

Phot

o by

Geo

rgia

Rea

d, R

ead

Stud

io, I

nc.



boatsprovidepublicferrytransportationaswellascharteredandthemedcruisesalongthisroute.AsPatrickMurrayofOklahomaRiverCruisesexplains,“Thereareamyriadofcruisesofferedthroughouttheyear,includingaSt.Patrick’sDayCruise.OthercruisesincludethepopularSunsetCruise,SundayLiveEntertainment,themedcruises(includingadultHaunttheRiverCruiseinOctober)andcharteredcruisesforspecialevents.ByvisitingtheOklahomaRiver,AnitaandIcertainlyfoundnew,creativewaystostayfitandhavefun.Youcanzapthe“b”wordfromyourfamily’svocabulary.Gotothe

OklahomaRiveroften.Newactivitiesarebeingaddedcontinuously.Theaddedbenefitisquality,family,fitnesstimetogether.

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.

Editor’s note: This marks Karen’s last Exploring Oklahoma column for MetroFamily. We appreciate her hard work and wish her all the best!

Visiting the Boathouse DistrictTheboathousedistrictliesjustsouthofthenewI-40crosstown.Toaccessit,takeLincolnAvenuesouthfromRenoAvenueandcontinueto725SLincoln.ChesapeakeFinishLineTower’sfirstfloorvisitor’scenterisagoodplacetostartforanintroductionandpanoramicviewsoftheriveractivitiesandtrails.VisitorcenterhoursareMonday-Friday,9:00am–6:00pmandSaturday1:00–6:00pm.FormoreinformationonRiversportactivitiesincludingcanoe/kayakclassopenhouseandclassdates,equipmentrentals,seasonorTryItNowpasses,visitwww.riversportokc.orgorcall405-552-4040.ChesapeakeBoathousehoursareMonday-Friday,6:00am–8:00pm,Saturday7:00am–5:00pmandSunday1:00–5:00pm.

Oklahoma River CruisesPublicferryserviceontheOklahomaRiverrunsfromApril6–December16,Wednesdays-Sundays.BoardingstopsarelocatedatRegattaPark(BoathouseDistrict),ExchangeLanding(nearStockyardsCity),andMeridianLanding.Ticketsmaybepurchasedonline,attheofficeorattheboatlandings.Advancedticketpurchasesarerecommended.Ticketsbeginat$6(oneway)and$12(roundtrip).Discountsavailableforseniorsandchildrenages6–12,childrenunder6arefree.Formoreinformation,ticketsortoreserveacharteredcruise,visitwww.okrivercruises.com,call405-702-7755orvisittheOklahomaRiverCruisesofficeat300SW7thStreetinOklahomaCity.

Coming Soon to the Oklahoma River!Constructionisscheduledtobeginthissummeronanew16,000square-footyouthpavilionthatwillincludeanindoorsurfpark,“averyuniquewaterfeature,”accordingtoMikeKnopp,OKCBoathouseFoundationExecutiveDirector.Anoutdoorclimbingwall,SkyTrailandZipLinethatzipspassengersovertheriverareotherattractionsbeingadded.“Weallwanttoseekidsbeingmoreactiveoutdoors,andthisisgoingtobeanadventurecenterunlikeanythingelseinthecountry,”saysKnopp.“Whileourfocusisonyouth,it’sreallygoingtoappealtopeopleofallages.”Fundraisingisstillunderwayforthismulti-milliondollarproject.Formoreinformationonhowyouoryourcompanycansupportthiseffort,call405-552-4040.

Hop on over to MetroFamily's website

for the metro's best list of Easter activities!

www.metrofamilymagazine.www.metrofamilymagazine.com/easter-fun-guide


http://www.riversportokc.org

http://www.riversportokc.org

http://www.okrivercruises.com

http://www.okrivercruises.com


Ask the ExpertsEncouraging the TruthInthisnewcolumn,weasklocalexpertstogiveanswerstotherealparentingquestionsandissuesthatweallmayface.Thismonth’squestion:My child is lying to me! About everything, from the benign (yes, I cleaned my room) to the more severe (I did not take that dollar). How can I encourage my child to tell the truth?

We posted the same question to our readers, and here are their responses:• Ialwaystellmykidsthatthepunishmentisworseifyoulie.TheexampleIgiveisthatthepunishmentforanoffenseisonedayof

noTV/videogames,thenthepunishmentforlyingaboutitisanadditionaldayofnoTV/videogames.Ithasn’tcuredityet,butithasreducedit.

• Oneapproachistotellherthatanytimesheisinthemiddleofalie,tostopandholdherhandsoutandsaythatshewouldliketostartoveragain.And,ifshedoes,assureherthatyouwillnotfussatherforstartingtolie.

• Somechurcheshavespecialclassestohelpkidswithproblemslikethese.Or,theYMCAortheBigBrothers/BigSistersprogram.Sometimeskidslearnbetterfromsomeonewhoisn’ttheirparent.

• Itrytoremindthekidsthatthetruthalwayscomesoutbecauseit’smucheasiertorememberthetruth.Liesalwaysseemtocausemorelies.Ialsotrytoemphasizetheimportanceoftrusttomychildren;iftheycontinuetochoosetolieratherthantellthetruth,Icannottrustthem;withtrustcomesprivileges.

ThankyoutoourreadersCarolynJ.,GayeB.,MargeH.andJenniferS.foryourfeedback!Do you have a question for our experts? Email it to [email protected] and we’ll put the experts to work for you.

Donnie Van Curen, M.A., LMFT: FirstIwouldcautionanyparenttorememberthatlyingisapartofchildhood.Kidsdon'thavetolearntolie,theyhavetolearntotellthetruth,andthisiswhereparentingcomesin.Aswithanydisciplineissue,thekeyistorecognizetheopportunityasaparenttotrainyourchild.Childrenatanyageshouldbetaughtthatthereareconsequences,goodorbad,foreverydecision.Whenachildmakesthedecisiontolie,itisimportanttoassisthiminunderstandingthemotivationbehindthisdecision,andthentoappreciatetheconsequencesofsuchaction(anddon'tforgetpositiveconsequencesformakingtherightdecisions).Thehopehereisthatatsomepointhewilllearntoevaluatetheconsequencesbeforetheaction.Themostimportantthingtorememberasparentsistobeconsistent.Childrendonotlearnbecauseofwhattheyaretold,theylearnfromtheexperienceofdoingsomething.Donnie Van Curen M.A., LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Counseling 1820, LLC. Contact him at 405-823-4302 or www.counseling1820.com.

Kevin Tutty, LCSW: Don’taskyourchildifhedidwhatyoususpected,especiallyifyouthinkyouknowthetruthisnotwhatheistellingyou.Instead,holdhimaccountableforhisbehavior,tellinghimthathehasyettoprovetoyouheistellingthetruth.Thisstrategywillserve

twopurposes:first,itensuresthatthereisonlyoneconsequenceforhisbehavior;andsecond,itpreventshimfromhoninghisskillsforlyingbycomingupwithnewstories.Don’tgivehimtheopportunitytoseewhatlieshecangetawaywith,becauseashegetsolder,itwillbemoredifficulttodiscernwhetherheistellingthetruthorlying.Kevin Tutty, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. Contact him at 405-431-6225.

John Goetz, LPC: Lyingisaformofdenial,whichinturnisabasichumandefensemechanismlearnedatanearlyage.Lying’sbasicpurposeistoavoidpunishmentoranegativesituation.Many,ifnotmost,childrenwillbetemptedtotrythisskillout.Iftheydiscoveritworkswithsaya50percentchanceofsuccess,theymaychoosetoaddittotheirtoolboxofskills.Childrenoperateinthehereandnow;a50percentchanceofgettinga“yes”insteadofa“no”ortoavoidperceivedpunishmentmayseemlikeareasonablechance.Asasocietywetolerateandevenrewardsomeleveloflying.Inpoliticsit’scalledspin;forcelebritiesinthemedia,itinvolvesgoingtorehab;onWallStreetyoureceiveabailout;andonthehomefront,wedrive45whenthespeedlimitis40andoccasionallyfloatthroughstopsigns.

Sowhatisaparenttodo?Sticktoyourmorals.Alieisaviolationoftrust,sowhenachildlies,helosessomeofyourtrust.Whenhetellsthetruth,rewardhimwithtrust.But,Ibelievethereisevenasimpleranswertoasignificantnumberofthesesituations:donotgivechildrenachancetolie.Asaparentyouareomnipotentandomniscient(allpowerfulandallknowing)toayoungchild.Doyoureallyneedtoaskwhospilledthejuiceordoyouneedthechildorthechildrentocleanitup?But,yousay,howdoyouknowwhichchilddidit?Youdon’t—sotheycanbothcleanitupandyoucanusethisasanopportunitytoteachthatthemanhonorablepersonadmitshiswrong-doinganddoesn’trelyonotherstocleanuphismesses(actualorproverbial).Asawatchfulparent,youknowwhenadishonestsiblingmayneedtobesingledoutbasedonyouromniscientmom/dadpowers;donothesitatetodoso.Yes,thisisunfair,butifyoutrustyourselfastheparentwhoisincontrol,Ibelieveyouwillbecorrect90percentofthetime.Teachchildrenthiswhentheyareveryyoungsoasteenstheywillbelieveyouhaveasixthsense.John Goetz, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with Edmond Family Counseling. Contact him at 405-341-3554.



http://www.counseling1820.com


TheAmericanAcademyofPediatrics(AAP)agrees.InaclinicalreportbyKennethR.Ginsburg,MD,MSEd,theAAPemphasizesplayasessentialtothehealthydevelopmentandwellbeingofourchildrenbycontributingtotheircognitive,physical,socialandemotionalhealth.TheAAPalsoencouragesplaytostrengthenachild’srelationship-buildingskills,helpchildrendevelopresiliencyandtoallowtheircreativitytoblossom.Inaddition,engaginginfunactivitieswithchildrenoffersanidealopportunityforparentstocreatelastingtraditions,ritualsandfamilymemories.Butdespitethesebenefits,theUniversityofMichigan’sInstituteforSocialResearchreportsthattimeforfunandfreeplayinchildren’sliveshasdecreasedmarkedlyinthepast30years.Whilethismayseemliketheunavoidablesideeffectofourincreasinglybusylives,Goldpositsthatbringingthefunbackisnotashardasyoumightthink.“Thegoodnewsisthatthereareeasyandinexpensivewaystoincreasehappiness.Everydaymomentscanbefunandyoudon’tneedspecialequipmentormoneytomakeithappen.”

Creating Rituals for FunThefirststeptoincreasingyourfamily’sfunquotientistodefinewhatyourfamilyconsidersfunandthenbuildmeaningfulritualsaccordingly.“It’simportantnottoassumethatyourdefinitionoffunmatchesyourchild’s,”Goldcautions.“Askwhatfunmeanstothemandspendsometimeobservingthethingsthatyourkidsreallyseemtoenjoydoing.Thesetypesofthingsarekeyandagreatjumping-offpointforbringingfunnewritualstoyourdailylife.”Unlikeroutines,whichseektoprovideorganizationandcontinuity,ritualsprovideconnectionsbetweenfamilymembersandfosterloving,healthyrelationships.“Inaworldofscary,unpredictableevents,ritualsarecomforting,”Goldexplains.“Theyaresomethingspecialthechildcanidentifywiththatcanhelpthemfeelsecure.”

Bringing the Fun Back“Funisthenumberonecomponentofameaningful,happylife,”Goldexplains.“It’snotmoneyandsuccess;it’shappinessandfunthatmakeourlifeworthwhile.”Butamidthepressuresofwork,errandsandchores,howcanabusyparentfindtimeto

emphasizefun?Goldrecommendssettingasideaspecifictimetofocusonfunwithyourkidsandfindingwaystoincreasethefunquotientinyoureverdaytasks.Theresultsofthesechanges—happierkids,improvedcooperationamongfamilymembers,andstrongerrelationships—arethebeneficialsideeffectsofanoverallincreaseinyourfamily’sfun.

Focusing on Fun: New Ways to Incorporate PlayNeedcreativeinspirationforwaystobring

thefuntoyourfamily?Trythesesuggestions,adaptthemasneededorcreateyourownritualsbasedontheactivitiesyourfamilymostenjoys.1. Brand it. Insteadofjustorderingpizza

andturningonamovie,dubbingit“TheJonesFamilyPizzaExtravaganzaandBlockbusterMovieNight”makesitexcitingforchildren.“Tailoryourritualstowhatyourchildlikesandreallypersonalizethem,”Goldencourages.“Usethenewnametomaketheeventastandingdateandwatchtheanticipationgroweachweek.”

Why Families Need To Pump Up the Fun!Fortherapist,parentingcoachandmotherofthreeTammyGold,thereisnothingsillyaboutplay.“Asparents,wesometimesloseourunderstandingabouttheimportanceoffun—andhowcrucialitistochildrenandtothewell-beingofourfamily,”Goldexplains.“Wetendtofocusonthethingswethinkwe‘ought’todoinsteadoffocusingonfun.Butthefuncomponentiscrucialtoraisingahappyfamily,andahappychildtendstodobetterineverything.”



2. Think outside the game box. “VideogameslikeWiiortheXBOX360Kinectofferamoreinteractiveandengagingexperience,”explainsMelissaBarbara,editorofCelebrations.(www.celebrations.com),awebsitefilledwithpartyplanningtips,creativerecipeideasandmore.“Yourkidswillbeexcitedtoshowyoutheropes.”

3. Shake on it. Createafamilyhandshakeandhaveeachmemberaddamovementtoitwhenyougreeteachothereachday.Or,taketurnshakingeachother’sfeetorelbows—anythingtospiceupthetraditionalgreeting—andmakeapointtodoiteverytimeafamilymembercomeshome.

4. Share memories. Showpicturesofyourselforyourspouseaschildren,orbreakoutyourweddingalbumtoshowyourkids.“Talkabouthowlifeandtimeshavechanged,”suggestsZoriannaKit,journalistandresidenttipsteronthesyndicateddailynewsmagazineshowAmerica Now.

5. Create a vision board. “Thegoalistocutoutimagesorwordsthatrepresentyouandwhatyouwantyourlifetolooklikeinthefuture,”AprilleFranks-Hunt,author,speaker,lifeandbusinessadvisorfromNorman,says.“Thefamilycancreatetheoneboardtogethersothateachmemberhasacontributiontoafamilygoalortheycancreateindividualboards.Studiesshowthatwearemorelikelytoaccomplishourgoalswhenwecanseethemvisually,sothisisafunandinexpensivewaytoworktowardsfamilygoals.”

6. Compete together. Createyourownsportingeventortournament.Croquet,soccerorbadmintonalllendthemselvestohealthycompetitiveplay.Iftheweatherdoesn’tallowoutdoorrecreation,playvolleyballinyourlivingroomusingyourcouchorcoffeetableandaballoon—howlongcanyougowithoutlettingtheballoontouchthefloor?

7. Start a family journal. “Letyourentirefamilydocumentyourmemories,discussions,andplansbycreatingafamilyjournal,”suggestsPollySchlafhauser,presidentofFamiliesWithPurpose(www.familieswithpurpose.com),anonlineresourcededicatedtohelpingfamiliesbuildtheirbestlife.Afamilyjournalisanon-goingdiaryofyourfamily'slifethatyoucanusetocapturememoriesoffamilyoutingsandvacations,favoriterecipes,importantdates,familygoalsandthethoughtsandfeelingsofyourselfandyourgrowingchildren.“Orsimplyuseitleavelovenotesorletterstoeachother,”Schlafhausersuggests.

8. Give each month a theme. “Tiethethemeintomanyofthethingsyoudothatmonth,”explainsAmandaWestofColorfulConceptsforKids(www.colorfulconceptsforkids.com),acompanythatdesignseducationalartfortoddlersandpreschoolers.“Forexample,youcouldspendonemonthlearningallabouttheocean.Youcangotothelibrarytofindbooksaboutsurfingandoceananimals,haveamovienightwhereyouwatchFinding Nemo,lookupwaterexperimentsontheInternet(i.e.floatingvs.sinking),orgotothelocalpooltolearnaboutwaves.Byfocusingononethemeatatimeandviewingthemonthasawholeunit,theseindividualeventsbecomemuchmoreinteresting.”

Increase the Fun in Everyday TasksHavingyourdailyagendafilledwitherrands,appointmentsandother“mustdo’s”doesn’tmeanthefunhastobegonefromyourday.Tryafewofthefollowingsuggestions:Getting ready for your day:• Turngettingdressedintoascavengerhunt.Tuckshirts,pants,socks

andshoesintodifferenthidingplacesaroundtheroomorhouse.Startthefunbyasking“Canyoufindyoursocks?”or“Where,ohwhere,didyourshoesgo?”

• Havearacetoseewhocangetdressedorbrushhisteethfirst.“It’sallreallyjustcreativeplay,”Goldexplains.“But,inthiscase,youarealsoaccomplishingimportantdailytasksandstillenjoyingtheprocess.”

At the grocery store:• Haveyourchildbecomeagrocerystoredetective.Askhimtouse

cluestodeterminewhatfoodswillbeonwhataisles.Launchafull-fledgedinvestigationinthecaseofthemissinggreenbeans(oranyotheritemonyourlist)andhavehimtellyouastoryastowhothelikelyculpritmightbe.Beoutrageousincomingupwithmotivesandcluesuntilyoulocatealltheitemsonyourlist.

• Usingyourcellphonecamera,haveyourchildtakeaphotoofthefoodthatshewouldlikeinherlunchboxthenextday,ortheingredientsofamealshewouldliketoenjoy.Makesuresheincludesallcomponentsoftherecipeormeal.Feelfreetohavesiblingsposewiththeitemsforaddedfun.

• Throughoutanentiregrocerytrip,pledgetoonlyspeakwithaccentsorsinginoperavoices.“Peoplemightlook,butyou’llbetoobusyhavingfuntonotice,”Goldsays.

At meal times:• Askyourchildtohelpcookandaskthemwhattheythinkwill

happenwhendifferentingredientsareadded.Addfoodcoloringtofoodssuchaspancakesormashedpotatoestocreateout-of-this-worldconcoctions.

• Turnmealpreparationintoacookingdemonstration,àlaJuliaChild.Usingyourbesttelevisionvoice,taketurnsnarratingdifferentstepsofmealpreparation.Useasmanyfunandcolorfuladjectivesasyoucanthinkof,suchas“delectable,”“scrumptious,”and“luscious.”Nodescriptionistooover-the-top.

• Continuetheplay-actingatthedinnertable,providingcommentaryonhowdeliciousthemealis.Theupshot?Yourchildmightevenexpandtheirpalatetryingdishestheymightnototherwiseenjoyandyouavoidthefussoftryingtogetthemtoeatnewanddifferentfoods.

• “GoalittleSesameStreetonyourfamilyandservefoodsthatstartwiththesameletterorcolor,”suggestsAlexandraKuykendall,ContentEditorforMOPSInternational(www.mops.org).“Or,pickacountryorpartoftheworldtoguideyourmenu.Thiscanbestretchedoutamongmanynightsandwillhelpyouwiththedailydilemmaof‘what’sfordinner?’”

At appointments or events:• Getcreativewithimpromptumath.Haveyourchildcountthe

frecklesonyourarm,thenumberofeyeletsinyourshoesorhowmanyoftheirhandsittakestomeasurethelengthofyourleg.

• Drawletters,writemessagesordrawpicturesoneachother’sbacksorarmsandguesswhattheotherpersonwrote.Spellwordssuchas“Iloveyou”oryourlastnameandhaveyourchilddecipherwhatyouarewriting.

• Ataweddingorgraduation,haveyourchilddrawapictureofherselfwiththebrideorgraduate.Itkeepsthemoccupiedandalsomakesafunkeepsakeforthepersonofhonor.“Ifyoucanuseafunactivitytoengagethemandincorporatethemintotheevent,it’sawin/win,”Goldexplains.

Let the Fun Begin!Nomatterhowyourfamilyspellsfun,Goldencouragesparentstorememberhowimportantenjoymentandplayistoachild.“Havingfunistheperfectwaytobondandgettoknowyourchild,”shereminds.“Youcandoeverycraftintheworld,takeeverylessonandclassandreadeveryparentingbook.Butthewaytohaveahappychildissimple—raisetheminahappy,joyfulandfunhome.You’llneverwishtheyhadtakenmorelessons,butyouwillwishthatyouwould’vetakenmoremomentstosoakupthefun.”Now,getoutthereandletthefunbegin.

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine. Her family’s rituals include “Attack of the Bubble Hands” at bath time with her 3-year old and 6-year-old, which usually results in big fun—and water all over the bathroom floor.


http://www.celebrations.com

http://www.familieswithpurpose.com

http://www.colorfulconceptsforkids.com

http://www.colorfulconceptsforkids.com

http://www.mops.org


Question of the MonthFamily Fun Activities

What is your family’s favorite activity to share?79 total responses

Familyfuncantakemanyforms,fromstayinginforfamilygamenighttoheadingouttoalocalattraction.Nomatterwhatactivityafamilymostenjoys,thebenefitsofhavingfuntogetherareundeniable.Spendingtimeenjoyingeachother’scompanyhelpstoreducestress,increasesfamilybondingandmakesmemoriesthatlastalifetime.TheFebruaryQuestionoftheMonthaskedourreaderstosharetheirfamily’sfavoritefunactivity.Nearlyhalfofreaderswhoresponded(45percent)saidtheirfamilysharesaloveofmovies,games,booksormusicandtheyspendtimetogetherenjoyingthesemutualinterests.Nearlyone-thirdsaidtheytravelandexplorenewplacestopump

uptheirfamilyfunquotient.Attendingorparticipatinginsportingeventstiedforthirdwithcooking/sharingmealstogether,eachgarneringsevenpercentofresponses.Lastly,ninepercentofreaderswhorespondedsaidtheyseekoutotherwaysofhavingfun,suchasplayingoutdoors,makingcrafts,or—asmanyresponded—“wedoalloftheabove!”Ourreaderssharedmoreabouttheirfavoritefamilyfunactivities:ShylaH.ofMooresaysherfamilyfuncan’tbecontainedinjustonecategory.“Welovetobeactiveasafamilyandjusthavefun!Thisincludesgoingtothepark,museums,zoo,movies,outoftownandrestaurants!”ForMaraeB.ofMidwestCity,sportshitahomerunwithherfamily.“Wearebigsportsfans!Eachofourkidshasasporttheyloveandexcelin,fromtennistosoccertobaseball,andwelovethemall!Pluswelovegoingtolocalevents.WesupporttheBaronsandtheThunderandwelovehaveanationalteamhereinOKC!”Moore’sHannahP.cooksupfamilyfuninthekitchen.“Wehaveaveryclosefamily.Nearlyeveryweekendthegrandparentscome

overandwecookabigmealandeat,chatandsometimesplayboardgames.Welovetoeatandentertainandourkidsreallyenjoyit,too.”NatashaR.ofOklahomaCitylovestotakeherfamilyontheroad.“Whentheweatherisnice,wetakearoadtriptowherever!Ijustjumponthefreewayanddrive.Wehavefoundsomeofthebestplacestogotobyjustgettinglost.Othertimesweknowwherewewanttogo,buteitherwayitisalwaysagreatfamilyexperience.”FamilygameandmovienightsequalfunforLacyP.ofYukon.“Weloveplayinggamestogether.FromHullabaloo(my2yearold’sfavorite)toScrabbleorUNO(my5yearold’sfavorites)wespendalotoftimeplayinggames.My2yearold’sfavoritethingiswatchingmovies,andhewantsustositwithhimtowatch.It’sfuntobondinthatwayaswell,andnotjustusetheTVasababysitter,butspendthattimeenjoyingamovietogether.”Visitwww.metrofamilymagazine.com/february-reader-responsestoreadmoreabouthowourreadersliketoenjoyfamilyfun.

Question of the Month for March:Earth Day is coming up in

April. What does your family do to be eco-friendly?

Visitwww.metrofamilymagazine.com/fs-giveawaytofillintheblankandenteryournameinourmonthlyprizepackagedrawing,valuedatover$250.DeadlinetoenterisThursday,March22.YourcommentsmayalsobeusedinafutureissueofMetroFamilyMagazineoronourwebsite.Thefullcontentsoftheprizepackagearelistedonthecontestpage.

Other methods. 9%

We love to cook together and share meals as a family. 7%

We love to travel and visit new places to explore whenever we can! 32%

We share a love of movies/games/books/music and spend time on that. 45%

We love to attend sporting events together! Whether one of us is playing or we're all just in the stands, we love our sports. 7%


http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/



Problem: You’ve worn through yet another diaper bag.

Solution: TheKalencom Coated Buckle Bag isdurableenoughtohandleyourbabygearandstylishenoughtotakewithyoueverywhere.($60,www.kalencom.com)

Problem: Have you seen my phone?

Solution: KeeptheZOMM wireless leash onyourkeychainandyoucaneasilyandeffortlesslylocateyourphone.Alsoworksasahands-freeBluetoothdevice.($100,www.zomm.com)

Problem: Your little one keeps stealing your favorite hypoallergenic pillow.

Solution TheMadii & Dyl Mini Me pillow ishypoallergenictoeasethesymptomsofallergiesandeczemaandcontouredtoprovideyourlittleonetheperfectnight’srest.($39+,www.madiidlylan.com)

Problem: You’ve got messy clothes on the go. How can you carry them home without making an even bigger mess?

Solution: Kissa’s Antibacterial Wet Bag carrieseverythingfromwetswimmingsuitstosoiledclothdiapers,protectingyoursurroundingsfromabiggermess.Washableandreusable.($13,www.green-bambino.com)

Problem: Your salad tongs have seen better days. Is there a better way?

Solution: TheSnapi Server isadurable,fun-to-usesaladserverthatisasnaptousewithonehand.($7,www.kitchenhappy.com).

Problem: Do you really have to carry that bulky car booster seat on your trip?

Solution: CarrytheBubbleBum inflatable booster.Easytocarry,easytoinflateanduseandsafe—rateda“bestbet”bytheInsuranceInstituteforHighwaySafety.($40,www.bubblebum.us)

Problem SolversHelpful Family Products

Problem: Your daughter’s favorite toy is looking a little worse for the wear.

Solution: Teddy Needs a Bath isaspecializedwashing(anddrying)bagtoensurethatstuffedtoysarecleanandfresh,eventhosemarked“surfacewashonly.”($22;www.teddyneedsabath.com)

Problem: Those little toys turn your floor into a minefield.

Solution: The Lay-N-Go Mat allowskidstoplaywiththoselittletoysandallowsforeasycleanupwhendone.Justpullthedrawstringandlockthesmallpiecesinside.($25lite,$65organizer;www.layngo.com)

Problem: Your preschooler has his days and nights mixed up.

Solution: The Kid’Sleep Classic servesasasleepaid,nightlightandalarmclocktoletyourlittleonesknowwhenit’stimetowakeup,andmoreimportantly,whenit’stimetostayinbed.($40;www.livelovedream.com)

Problem: Your boots are piled on the bottom of your closest.

Solution: Bootique Boot Hangers cliptothetopsofyourbootsandletyouorganizethemneatly.($20/3;www.boottique.com)

Problem: Your crawling baby is wearing through the knees in… well, everything.

Solution: Crawlings Baby Knee Pads provideafashionableandfunctionallayerofpaddedprotection.($20;www.crawlings.com)

Problem: You worry that you’re not doing the best job you can at the most important job you have—parenting.

Solution: Ten Powerful Things to Say to Your Kids givesyou10importantthingstosaytoyourkidsthatwillgivethem—andyou—apowerfulboost.($16;www.tenpowerfulthingstosay.com)

Whenwehearaboutneworhelpfulproducts,weliketoletourreadersknow!Hereareafewofthemoreinterestingitemswe’verecentlyfound.Visittheproductwebsiteforalistoflocalretailers.

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests for a chance to win many of the products shown here and on other pages this month!


http://www.kalencom.com

http://www.zomm.com

http://www.madiidlylan.com

http://www.green-bambino.com

http://www.kitchenhappy.com

http://www.bubblebum.us

http://www.teddyneedsabath.com

http://www.layngo.com

http://www.livelovedream.com

http://www.boottique.com

http://www.crawlings.com

http://www.tenpowerfulthingstosay.com



Don't miss the family fun this Spring Break!Saturday, March 24

10am to 4pm at the State Fairgrounds

(Oklahoma Expo building; enter Gate 5 from May Avenue)

Enjoy over 60 booths with hands-on activities for kids • Inflatables Safety Village by Safe Kids Oklahoma • Character Corner

Stage Entertainment by kindie band Spaghetti Eddie, Rumble the Bison, Critter Tales, and more!

Kids are FREE and adults (18 and older) are $5 each.

Print off a coupon to save $1 up to 2 people at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest.

Parking is FREE.

Extreme Animals Petting Zoo

Rumble the Bison and the Thunder Girls from the

Thunder NBA team.

Safety Village sponsored by:

Parents Assistance Center“The Family Place”

Co-sponsored by:

Sponsored by:




About our co-sponsor: Single Parent Support NetworkPO Box 12593, OKC, OK 73157(405) 917-1817www.supportforsingleparents.org

The Single Parent Support Network’s vision is to empower single parents to grow successful families and build strong communities. Over 307,000 of Oklahoma’s children currently live in single parent homes and close to 53,000 of those children live in the Oklahoma City area. Children living with only one parent statistically have lower academic performance, social achievement and psychological adjustment than children who have the advantage of two parenting figures in the home.

The network serves men and women raising children alone and has four main current initiatives impacting the lives of single parent families:

• Life coaching: Weekly support and accountability program for single parents and their families.

• Support Groups for parents and children that are facilitated by professional counselors and interns in the field of behavioral sciences.

• Annual Queen for a Day event that treats mothers, grandmothers, adoptive or foster parents to royal treatment and new insight as to how to successfully raise their children.

• Adopt a Single Parent Family Mentoring program which provides a foundational model for mentorship, accountability and education for the single parent family.

�!!�!�!��!!!!�!!!�!��

Sign up your kids to participate in AMF’s FREE bowling promotion!

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Visit our booth or amf.com for more

information.

Stop by our booth to receive a

GREAT offer for all new patients.

Dr. Tony Greene & Dr. Anne Smith 7304 N. Comanche Ave, OKC

728-4851 • www.BrixtonChiro.com

Chisholm Trail

Heritage Center

www.onthechisholmtrail.com


http://www.supportforsingleparents.org

http://www.BrixtonChiro.com

http://www.onthechisholmtrail.com




Stage Entertainment at Kids FestAdding to the excitement at MetroFamily's Kids Fest is stage entertainment. Don't miss the opportunity to get up close and personal with these acts:

• Rumble, the Thunder Girls and the Thunder Drumline (scheduled from 11:45 to 1:15).• The popular local kindie band, Spaghetti Eddie, performing twice during the event.• Critter Tales presenting a fun and educational animal show.• Science Museum Oklahoma teaching about the wonders of science.• Performances by these arts groups: Kids CO Theatre, Lyric Theatre and Oklahoma Children's Theatre.

And don't miss the opportunity to take photos with local mascots and costumed characters and learn to juggle with a free, hands-on lesson from Monica Buck of Juggle Whatever.


Camp McFadden is on the shore of Kaw Lake in Northern OK.

www.campmcfadden.com • (580) 762-9955 www.kawlake.com • (580) 762-9494

Stop by our booth for discounts on Camp McFadden

Summer Camp registration!

LYRICTHEATREOKC.COM405.524-9310

www.mobilegameparty.net

Find Us at Kids Fest!

Visit our Kids Fest booth for 2012 OCCC summercamp information, play Bulls-eye and win cool prizes.Recreation & Fitness 682-7860 • College for Kids 686-6222

www.occc.edu


Meet our co-sponsor: Safe Kids Coalition(405) 271-5695 www.safekidsok.org (also on Facebook)

Safe Kids Oklahoma is a statewide network of organizations working to prevent unintentional childhood injury, the leading cause of death and disability for children ages 1 to 14.

The mission of SKO is to educate families, provide safety devices to families in need and advocate for better laws to help keep children safe, healthy and out of the emergency room.

“Most people are shocked to hear that injuries claim more lives of children each year than cancers, heart disease and SIDS combined,” says Lauren Farrah, Executive Director of Safe Kids Oklahoma. “However, child deaths are just the tip of the iceberg. It is said that for every one death, there are at least four injuries—and they go far beyond skinned knees.”

The majority of injuries and the deaths that often ensue can be prevented. Motor vehicle crashes, drowning, falls and fires are the top risk areas for this age group. Any precautions taken, such as having a properly-installed car seat, to making helmet and life jacket use a “family rule,” can dramatically reduce a child’s chances of ending up in the ER (or worse). Safe Kids Oklahoma believes that all children deserve the chance to grow up safe, healthy and injury free!

http://www.campmcfadden.com

http://www.kawlake.com

http://www.mobilegameparty.net

http://www.occc.edu


http://www.safekidsok.org

405.208.5508 [email protected]

www.okcu.edu/communitydance

Visit our Kids Fest booth

to receive a special offer on dance classes for all ages.

Community Dance Center

NE of State CapitolOff 23rd Street

Come explore Oklahoma’s unique history of geology,

transportation, commerce, culture, aviation, heritage,

entertainmentand more.

Family Fun for Everyone!

405-522-0765 | www.okhistory.org


Come experience the Safety Village sponsored by Safe Kids Oklahoma!

• Participate in the Bicycle Rodeo and learn about helmet fitting.• Play water safety trivia games and meet Bobber the Water Safety Dog,

provided by the US Corps of Engineers.• Learn how to properly install a child’s safety seat.• Play an ATV simulator game that teaches about ATV safety.• Watch a vehicle rollover simulator and learn about the importance of

buckling up, provided by the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office and Oklahoma Highway Safety Office.

• Get first aid and CPR tips from the American Red Cross of Oklahoma.• Participate in a Q&A about transporting children with special healthcare

needs, provided by Kohl’s Cares for Kids.

And much more!


http://www.okcu.edu/communitydance

http://www.okhistory.org



About our Co-Sponsor:Parents Assistance Center415 NW 5th Street, OKC, OK 73102(405) 232-8226, www.pacok.org

For thirty-five years Parents Assistance Center (PAC) has been serving the OKC metro area with educational and therapeutic services for families that need better parenting skills. Their mission, “to prevent child abuse, neglect and other family violence by strengthening the family,” is accomplished through parenting workshops that help parents develop critical skills.

Executive Director Laura Gamble says, “People tend to parent the way they were parented. At PAC, we believe that all families can be strengthened and even parents who experienced abuse or neglect as children can change the future for themselves and their children by attending group workshops and obtaining other services at PAC.”

Serving approximately 1,000 families each year, PAC offers several kinds of specialized classes and workshops, including Nurturing Parenting Skills, Compassion Workshop, Teen Parenting Skills, Parenting the Young Child and a Batterers Intervention Program.

While some of PAC’s services are offered through a contract with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and United Way funding, PAC also welcomes opportunities to provide community-based workshops through churches, community organizations and even corporations.

Parents Assistance Center“The Family Place”

Find out all of the ways your child can benefit

from chiropractic!

Dr. Brandon & Dr. Megan Januarywww.januarychiropractic.com

405-749-8000

Like Surprises?

Register to visit us at the March 24 MetroFamily Kids Fest and receive a special surprise!

Register at: K12.com/kidsfest

YOUR CHILD can

Thrive


http://www.pacok.org

http://www.januarychiropractic.com

Visit our booth to have some hands-on fun with Street Bowling!

Pre-K through eighth gradewestminsterschool.org


Top 10 Reasons to Bring Your Family to Kids Fest Saturday, March 24, 10am-4pm!

10. You need to celebrate the end of Spring Break with tons of family fun for everyone.

9. Your family will have fun learning how to stay safe from Safe Kids Oklahoma (Bicycle Rodeo, anyone?).

8. Hands-on fun and games at more than 60 booths.7. Take photos with Rumble the Bison from the Thunder and other mascots.

(Rumble will be at Kids Fest from noon to 1pm.)6. Learn about the character qualities of gratefulness and creativity with

hands-on fun in the Character Corner.5. Pet the animals from Extreme Adventures.4. Door prizes and giveaways!3. Enjoy classes about parenting, couponing, career development and more

in the Single Parents Support Network area.2. Watch and learn from the awesome entertainment provided by Spaghetti

Eddie, Rumble the Bison, the Thunder Girls, the Thunder Drumline, Science Museum Oklahoma, Critter Tales and MORE!

1. Kids get in FREE! (and adults are just $5). Find coupon at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest. Ticket sale proceeds support Parents Assistance Center and Single Parent Support Network!

See YOU at Kids Fest!

What You Need To Know About Kids FestMarch 24, 10am-4pm • Oklahoma Expo Building at the State Fairgrounds (Gate 5 off of May Avenue; building is west of the Cox Pavilion and the Space Needle). Concessions (provided by Oklahoma State Fair concessions) will be available for sale in the building. Kids are FREE; adults (18 & up) are $5 each. Coupon is available at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids fest. Parking is free.




http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids


AMF BowlingAdvanced AcademicsAndy Alligators Fun ParkBrain and Eye ConnectionBrixton Square ChiropracticCasady SchoolCreative AdventuresChisholm Trail Heritage CenterCity of Edmond Parks & RecreationChickasaw Nation Cultural CenterDawn to Dusk InflatablesExtreme AnimalsGaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage CenterGattitownGlamour ShotsHeyDay Entertainment CenterIntegris HealthJanuary ChiropracticK12 Virtual SchoolKaw Lake/Camp McFaddenKids CO TheatreKids Eye SiteKMGL RadioLiberty MutualLove & Hope CounselingLyric TheatreM&M ProductionsMad ScienceMobile Game PartyMuseum of Osteology

Ocean DentalOCHEC (home school association)Oklahoma Children's TheatreOklahoma City-County Health DepartmentOklahoma SmilesOklahoma College Assistance Program (OCAP)Oklahoma ConnectionsOklahoma City Community CollegeOCU Community DanceOklahoma History CenterOKC RiversportParents Assistance CenterPrimrose SchoolsProject MomRainbow FleetRedlands FencingScentsyScience Museum OklahomaSmile ZoneSoccer CitySooner Flight AcademyTechjoyntUCO, College of Fine ArtsWestminster SchoolYounge Law FirmYouthCare of OklahomaYMCA Camp ClassenAnd more!Also, enjoy hands-on learning activities from Safe Kids Coalition and In The Gap as well as entertainment by Juggle Whatever.

MetroFamily is excited to welcome all of these booth vendors to Kids Fest. Each will provide some kind of hands-on activity or game for the kids and many are providing door prizes.

Please join us in thanking the following Kids Fest booth vendors:



Character CornerLearning About OrderlinessAreyoureadyforspringcleaning?Orderlinessismuchmorethanjustkeepingyourhouseclean,italsoincludesorganizingyourlifethroughprioritizingandparingdowninordertoachieveefficiency,harmonyandmoreemotionalstabilityasaparent.Springisabeautifultimeofyeartorecycleoldbelongingsandhabitsandstartanew.Teachyourchildrenbylettingthemtakepartinthisprocessofcreatingacleanerheartandhome.

Help Your Family Become More Orderly:Family tradition. Asalessoninorderliness,tackleaspring-cleaningprojectasafamily,explainingthemethodtoyourorganizing.Don’tforgettomaketeamworkfunwithsnacks,music,breaksandencouragingwords.Games. Youngchildrenwillenjoyplayinghide-and-seekwithatwist.Pickseveralnecessaryhouseholditemsthatarekeptinaspecificplace(forexample:toiletpaper,fireextinguisheroryogurt).Aftertalkingaboutwhyitisimportanttokeeptheseitemsinaspecificplace,hidetheminrandomplacesaroundthehouseforyourkidstofind.Object lesson. MakeaPriorityJarbyfillingaclearjarwithping-pongballstorepresentimportantpriorities.Adddriedbeanstorepresenttheextrasinyourday.Letyourchildrenmanipulatethecontents,tryingdifferentcombinationsofballsandbeanstoseewhichfitsbestbackinthejar.Theywilllearnthattheonlywayitallfitsisifthepriorities(inthiscase,ping-pongballs)comefirst.Whenourprioritiesarenotinorder,importantthingsgetneglected.(Takenfrom10-Minute Life Lessons for Kids byJamieMiller.)Stories.Whileyouareatthelibrarylookingforbooksonorderliness,suchasThe Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room byStanandJoBerenstainorFranklin is Messy byPauletteBourgeouis,askthechildren’slibrariantotalktoyourchildrenabouthowandwhythelibraryisorderly.Letyourkidstellyouaboutwhyotherplacesneedtobeveryorderly(suchasfirestations,hospitalsoryourhome).Foragreatreadaboutorganizationforgrown-ups,lookfortitlesbytheamazinghomemanager,KathyPeel.Asshesays,“Messcausesstress.”“I will” statements. Encourageorderlinessinyourhomebycommittingtothefollowingstatements.Saythese“Iwill”statementsaloudwithyourchildren,andencouragethemtoapplythemtosituationsintheireverydaylife.

Sarah Holmes lives in Norman and is the founder of Wildflowers Character Resources. Find more at www.thecharactermom.blogspot.com.

I will: pick up after myself • keep my work and play areas clean and neat • put things back where they

belong • not over-schedule my time • remember to put my priorities first

Orderliness is knowing what to remove from my life and surroundings, and having the courage to do so.

~ The Power of True Success


http://www.thecharactermom.blogspot.com


Childrencomeinallshapes,sizesandpersonalities.Somelovetolearnandothers—notsomuch.Ihave

threechildrenandtwoofthemlovetolearnnewthingswhilethethirdonecantakeitorleaveit.However,IfoundwhenImadelearningfun,mykids,aswellasmystudents,didn’tevenrealizetheywerelearning.Infact,sometimesmystudentswouldgohomeattheendofthedayandwhenaskedbymomordad,“Whatdidyoudotoday?”theirresponsewouldbe,“Oh,nothing.Wejustplayed.”Inactuality,weweremeetingthecurriculumgoalsinafunandenticingwayandthestudentsdidn’tevenrealizeit.

Make Learning FunAsyourchild’sfirstteacher,youhavetheabilitytoencouragetheirlearningthroughqualityfamilytimetogether.Herearejustafewideasforlaughing,lovingandlearningwithyourchildren:1. Picture recipes. Createpicturerecipes

byprovidingmagazinepicturesordrawingsthataccompanythewrittenmeasurementsandingredientsinafavoriterecipe.Yourkidswilllearntoassociatethepictureswiththewrittennumeralsandwords.Theskillstheywilllearnincludesequencing,measurement,solidsvs.liquidsandfollowingdirections.Theendproductwillbeatreatthatthefamilycanenjoy

atsnackormealtime.Asyoudevelopmorerecipes,youcanlaminatethemandplacetheminathree-ringbinderforyourchild’sownpicturerecipebook.

2. “Drawing” on a cookie sheet. Learningletters,numbers,sightwords(themostcommonwordsusedintheEnglishlanguage)orspellingwordsaresometimesdifficultforchildren.Aninexpensiveandfunwaytolearntheseconceptsarebyputtingablobofnon-mentholshavingcream(mentholburnslittleeyes)orpreparedpudding(greatforyoungerchildrenwhostillputtheirfingersintheirmouths)onacookiesheet.Allowyourchildtoformletters,numbers,spellingwordsorsightwordswiththeirfingersintheshavingcreamorpudding.Messyfun,easyclean-up.

3. Stampers from laundry detergent lids. Savethelidsfromyourlaundry

detergentandgluespongelettersornumbersonthelids.Kidscanstampnumbers,letters,spellingwords,theirname,etc.usingwashablepaintontopaper.Allowingchildrentimetocreatebuildsindependenceandself-esteem.

4. Salt dough for language arts. UsingPlaydohorasimplesaltdoughrecipe,allowyourchildrentomakeplaydough“snakes”byrollingaballofdoughonthetableoracookiesheet.He/shecanthenformletters,numbersorsymbols.Whenchildrenhaveachancetophysicallyformnewconceptsitaddsthenewinformationtotheirexistingbackgroundknowledge.

5. Story sticks. Attachaself-adhesiveVelcrostripdownthelengthofanunusedpaintstirringstick(foundatyourlocalhardwarestore).Draworfindpicturesdepictingdifferentcharactersorscenesinachildren’sbook.Laminatethepicturesandplaceaself-stickingVelcrodotonthebackofthepicture.Asyoureadthebook,yourchildcanplacethecharactersinorderastheyareunveiledinthestory.Thisencouragesstoryorder,comprehensionandhelpsyourchildfocusonyourreadingbyprovidingataskforhim/hertoattendtoasyouread.Afteryoufinishthestory,takealookatthestorysticktogetherandencourageyourchildtoretellthestoryinhis/herownwordsusingthepicturesasprompts.

6. Poker chips/milk jug lids for math.Whenchildrenarelearningmathskillsithelpstohavemanipulativestoassistthemindevelopingone-to-onecorrespondenceastheycommitmathfactstomemoryorastheylearnnewconcepts.Pokerchipsormilkjuglidsareaneasywaytoprovidemanipulativesforyourchildrenastheysolveproblems.Forexample,ifyourchildissolving“4+3,”havehimplacefourpokerchipsonthetable,thenanotherthreepokerchipsnexttothemandaddthetwosetstogethertofindthesum.

Focus on EducationLaughing, Loving & Learning as a Family

Resourceswww.tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/educational-games.htm Getthewholefamilyinvolvedinmakingandplayinggamesthatchallengetheirminds,teachvaluablelessonsinart,math,logicandhavingagoodtime.www.kidsknowit.com Free,highqualityeducationalactivities,movies,music,worksheetsandmore.www.makinglearningfun.com Anearlychildhoodeducationwebsitefilledwithfreeprintablesspecificallydesignedforpre-Kthroughfirstgrade.www.readingrockets.org Readingresourcestohelpparentsandothereducatorsassistyoungchildreninlearningtoreadorreadbetterbybuildingfluency,vocabularyandcomprehensionskills.www.metrofamilymagazine.com/field-guides Freeguidestoturnlocalvenuesintoeducationalfun.

Fun With ScienceThe Time For Kids Big Book of Science Experiments (DowntownBookworks,hardcover,$18)isfilledwithfunscienceactivitiesthatyoucantryoutathome.Separatedintocategories(EarthScience,LifeScience,PhysicalScienceandTechnologyandEngineering),theexperimentsareappropriateforkidsofallages.Anaddedbonus,theScienceFairSuccessSecretssectionwillhelpkidstopreparefortheirnextsciencefair.

Make Your Own Salt Dough2cupsall-purposeflour1cupsalt1cuplukewarmwaterMixflourandsalt,graduallyaddingwateruntilitisdoughy.Kneadforfiveminutestosoften.Staysfreshforseveraldaysifstoredinanair-tightcontainer.Addafewdropsoffoodcoloringtocreatedifferentcolorsofdough,orafewdropsofextract(suchasvanilla,lemonoralmond)tomakescenteddough.


http://www.tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/educational-games.htm

http://www.makinglearningfun.com

http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/field-guides


7. Language experience dictations. Childrenneedtounderstandthatthewrittenwordcanalsobeaspokenword.Haveyourchilddictateastorytoyou(vacation,intownerrand,birthdaypartyoranotherevent)andyouwriteitdown.Addpicturesorotherartifactsfromtheeventtoembellishthestory,andthenreaditbacktoyourchildpointingtoeachword.Shewillsoonrealizewhatyouwrotedownwaswhatshesaid!Eventually,yourchildwillbeabletodoherownwriting.Don’tfocussomuchoncorrectspellingatfirst.Instead,provideopportunitiesforfreewriting.Developingyourchild’sconfidencewhenitcomestowritingneedstotakepriority.Asyourchild’sabilityprogresses,gooverwordsthatshemisspelledandcorrectthemtogether.Youcankeepthesestoriestohighlightimportanteventsinthelifeofyourchild.

8. Grocery shopping math. Whilemakingyourgrocerylist,haveyourchildlookfortheitemsintheweeklygrocerystore

adandfindcouponsthatmatchitemsonyourgrocerylist.Then,encouragehim/hertowritethepriceoftheitemnexttoeachitemonthelist,orthevalueofthecoupontoshowhowmuchwillbesaved.Addthecostsorthesavingsandtalkaboutthevalueofmoneyandthecostofgroceries.Whileshopping,haveyourchildtakeoutthecouponthatmatchesanitem.Showhim/herthereceiptwhenyougethometoindicatehowmuchthefamilysavedthankstohis/herefforts!Thisactivityencourageswriting,math,budgeting,andnewspaperskills.

Kristen Hoyt, Assistant Professor and Director of Field Experience in the School of Teacher Education at MACU (Mid-American Christian University in OKC), is an avid advocate for quality education in Oklahoma. If you have a topic about education that you would like to see covered in this column, please email [email protected].

Making Learning Responsibilities FunBy Mari Farthing

Animportantpartofparentingistoteachkidsresponsibility.Onewaytodothisisthroughchores,rewardsandconsequences.Ifyou’vetriedthevarietyofchorechartsanddividedpiggybanks(forsaving,spendingandcharitablegiving)thatarereadilyavailablebuthaven’tfoundtheonethat’srightforyourfamily,maybeyouneedamoreflexiblesystem.EntertheFisherKidsResponsibilitySystem,whichincludesaneasily-customizedpegboardplusaweeklychorelist,choresticks,paychecknotepad,moneybagsandmore,soyoucancreateasystemthatbestworksforyourchildren.Thebasicsystem($48)canbecustomizedforyourfamily,toensurethatyoubestmeettheneedsofyourchildren.Itriedthesystemonmyownkids(ages7and9)andtheylovedtakingresponsibilityfortheirownactions,theyenjoyedtheindependencetoselectthechoresthattheywouldaccomplisheachday.I’msurethenoveltywillwearoff,butthebeautyofthissystemisthatwecanchangeitwhenitdoes.Visitwww.fisher-kids.comtolearnmore.



http://www.fisher-kids.com


12-14FREE Sassy Into Spring Camp for girls ages 11-14 from single parents households sponsored by the Bethel Foundation (13003 N Western, OKC) includes crafts, speakers, nutrition, goal planning and home safety. Preregister. 9am-noon. 286-3700, www.bethelfoundationusa.com.

12-16Did You Ever? Spring Break Camp at Science Museum Oklahoma for students in grades 1-6 explores hands-on creative activities including making music with a Tesla coil and freezing a rainbow. Preregister. $235 members, $250 nonmembers. 9am-4pm. 602-3760, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

Spring Break Youth Camps: Viva Arte! at City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) for ages 5-13 to be inspired by some of history’s most celebrated Mexican artists as they experience the exhibition Miradas: Ancient Roots in Modern & Contemporary Mexican Art. Preregister, online registration available. Before & after-care available. Early bird discount before March 3. $150. 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Thunder Spring Break Camp at Transformation Fitness Center (14701 N Kelly, Edmond) for ages 5-16 to learn basketball skills & character lessons from experienced coaches & players. All skill levels welcome. $150, $130 season ticket holders & Kids Club members. 9am-1pm. www.nba.com/thunder/community/youth_basketball.html.

13-16Spring Break Art at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr, OKC) for ages 5-7 & 8-10 to create works of art inspired by the galleries and downtown OKC. Before & after care available. $120 members, $130 nonmembers. 9am-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

Beginning Film & Video Production at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr, OKC) for ages 11-13 to learn more about video production by making a group video project. Before & after care. $120 members, $130 nonmembers. 9am-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

Monday, March 19Sewing Machine Fun! at Sew Biz (3612 NW 174, Edmond) for ages 8 & up to make a bean bug using a sewing machine. Each camper gets use of a digital Singer sewing machine, all supplies & notions. Prerequisite for upcoming Spring & Summer Camps. Preregister. $15. 9-11am or 1-3pm. 285-6366, www.sewbizok.weebly.com.

19-21City of Moore Spring Break Youth Basketball at the

Moore Community Center (301 S Howard) for ages 6-16 to learn offense & defense skills in game-like scenarios. $50. 9am-noon. 793-5090, www.cityofmoore.com.

SoccerCity Spring Break Camp at SoccerCity (4520 Old Farm Rd, OKC) for ages 4-15 divided by age and ability, includes recreational and advanced player training. Campers should bring a ball and shinguards. $95. 9am-noon. 748-3888, www.soccercityokcity.com.

19-22Spring Break Youth Camp at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St, OKC) includes pottery, jewelry, art & more. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Spring Break Camp presented by Kid Co Theatre at Dove Dance Academy (5842 NW 72nd Place) for kids in grades 1-4 to spend a week creating their own original play. $225. 563-5437, www.okkidco.org.

19-23Did You Ever? Spring Break Camp at Science Museum Oklahoma for students in grades 1-6 explores hands-on creative activities including making music with a Tesla coil and freezing a rainbow. Preregister. $235 members, $250 nonmembers. 9am-4pm. 602-3760, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

Spring Break Youth Camps: Viva Arte! at City Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) for ages 5-13 to be inspired by some of history’s most celebrated Mexican artists as they experience the exhibition Miradas: Ancient Roots in Modern & Contemporary Mexican Art. Preregister, online registration available. Before & after-care available. Early bird discount before March 3. $150. 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

City of Moore Spring Break Mad Science at the Moore Community Center (301 S Howard) for ages 6-11 to have fun while learning in themed Science in Motion & Science Adventure Quest camps. $100. 9am-noon. 793-5090, www.cityofmoore.com.

Thunder Spring Break Camp at Transformation Fitness Center (14701 N Kelly, Edmond) for ages 5-16 (all skill levels) to learn basketball skills & character lessons from experienced coaches & players. $150, $130 season ticket holders & Kids Club members. 9am-1pm. www.nba.com/thunder/community/youth_basketball.html.

Spring Break Camps at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) camps for ages 5-13 in theatre, musical theatre & magic. Before & after care available. $150. 9am-4pm. 606-7003, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

Spring Break Mini-Camp at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang) for grades kindergarten-5 includes a fishing derby, crafts, games & more. Preregister. $90

per week or $40 per day. 7am-6pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Spring Break Camp at Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly) for ages 5-11 includes a variety of activities. $75 resident, $85 nonresident, $10 for each additional child. 9am-4pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Spring Break Camp at the 12th Avenue Recreation Center (1701 12th Ave NE, Norman) for ages 5-10 includes games & activities. $25 per day. 7am-6pm. 292-7275, www.normanfun.com.

20-22Spring Sewing Fun! at Sew Biz (3612 NW 174, Edmond) for ages 8 & up to make an apron & t-shirt pillow. Each camper gets use of a digital Singer sewing machine, all supplies & notions. Preregister. Participants must have previously attended a Sewing Machine Fun! camp in order to attend. $59. 9-11am or 1-3pm. 285-6366, www.sewbizok.weebly.com.

20-23Spring Break Art at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr, OKC) for ages 5-7 & 8-10 to explore the exhibitions & create their own masterpieces. Before & after care available. $120 members, $130 nonmembers. 9am-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

Stop-Motion Animation at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr, OKC) for ages 11-13 to learn stop-motion animation using digital & video cameras to manipulate objects creating their own stop-motion video. Before & after care available. $120 members, $130 nonmembers. 9am-4pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com.

Spring Break Day Camps at the OKC Zoo for ages 4-5, 6-7 & 8-11 to enjoy activities centered on animals including crafts, animal talks & more. Preregister. $18 per day members, $22 per day nonmembers. 9am-noon. 425-0218, www.okczooed.com/day-camps.

21-23Spring Break Sewing Camp at the Oklahoma County OSU Extension Center (930 N Portland) for ages 10-19 to learn to sew by creating their own elastic waist pants, skirt or shorts & jean tote bag. Sewing machines provided. $35 plus cost of supplies. 9am-noon. 713-1125, http://oces.okstate.edu/oklahoma/events_listing.

23-25FREE Outdoor Overnight Adventure Camp for boys ages 6-16 from single parent households, sponsored by the Bethel Foundation (13003N Western, OKC). A weekend overnight camp featuring an outdoor adventure that includes fishing, sports, teamwork, campfires and education. Preregister. 286-3700, www.bethelfoundationusa.com.

SpringBreakCampscanofferyourchildawaytoexplorenewtopicsandlearnnewskillsoutsideoftheclassroom.Fromdaycampstoweek-longcamps,thiscomprehensiveguidetotheeducationalcampsbeingofferedinandaroundtheOKCmetrocanhelpyourchildmakethemostofSpringBreak—andhavefundoingit!Pleasenotethatmanycampsfillquicklyandearlyregistrationisgenerallyrequired.Pleasecontactthespecificvenuetoregister.

2012 Spring Break Camps




http://www.sciencemuseumok.org

http://www.cityartscenter.org

http://www.nba.com/thunder/community/youth_basketball.html

http://www.okcmoa.com


http://www.sewbizok.weebly.com


http://www.cityofmoore.com

http://www.soccercityokcity.com

http://www.nationalcowboymuseum.org


http://www.okkidco.org



http://www.cityofmoore.com



http://www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org


http://www.cityofmustang.org


http://www.cityofyukonok.gov

http://www.normanfun.com




http://www.okczooed.com/day-camps

http://oces.okstate.edu/oklahoma/events_listing




Now that we have your attention, check out our

website for ideas of FREE (or almost FREE) places to go, things to do, crafts to

make and local restaurants offering

family discounts. family discounts.

metrofamilymagazine.com/free

(And be sure to share your ideas for "free" things in the metro area by commenting

on this web page!)

IT'S FREE!



Fulfilling Their NeedsForonefosterfamily,thecaretheywerereceivingfromDHSin1984wassimplynotenoughtomeetthedemandsoftheirgrowingfosterfamily.GeorgeandRoseHarperdecidedtotakemattersintheirownhandsandtrulyadvocatefortheirchildren.“Theyrealizedthattherewasmorethattheyneededto[properly]careforthekidsintermsofclothingand[other]resources,”saysAmyMitchell,ExecutiveDirectorofCCC.“TheystartedworkingwithFirstPresbyterianChurchofEdmondand[began]gettingitemsdonated.They[also]providedChristmaspresentstochildreninfostercare.”Theireffortsstartedsmall,butquicklybegantogrow,becomingtheCCCoftoday.WiththeHarperfamily’svisionalwaysinmind,Mitchellisproudtonotetheprogressthatthecurrentteamhasmade.“Wehaveincreasedinthenumberofchildrenweserveandinourpresenceinthecommunity,”saidMitchell.CCChasbecomeaUnitedWayagency,addingprogramsthatnotonlyaimtofillclosetswithclothingandsendbirthdaywishestochildreninfostercare,butalsotohelpbuildself-esteemanddresskidsupfromheadtotoeinlove—thebestfashionaccessoryofall.

A Caring Mission for ChildrenCCC’sresourcecenterisstockedwithnew,freeclothingforkids.Thereareaislesfilledwithshoes,funT-shirts,designerjeansandtoiletryorpersonalitemsthatsomekidsmaybetooafraidtoaskforintheirfosterhome.Kidsareabletopicktwooutfitsfromtheracksofclothesintheresourcecenterfourtimesayearandoneoutfitduringtheorganization’sannualBacktoSchoolevent.Thekidsalsoleavewithanewpairofshoes,underwear,socks,acoat,twobooks

andadufflebagfullofgoodies.“Lastyearweserved4,021kidsthroughallofourprograms,”saysMichelleLandes,DevelopmentDirectoratCCC.Familiesenterhopingtofinditemsforthenewchildwhohascomeintotheirlivesandtheyleavewithansweredprayers,brightfacesandarestoredfaithinseeingthatsomepeopledotrulycare.“Theyleavehere,nomatterhowtheycomein,withbigsmilesontheirfaces.Wemakeitfunforthem,andIbelievethatpartofthatisbuildingself-esteem,”saysMitchell.

It Takes a VillageCitizensCaringforChildrencreatesanopportunityfortheentirecommunitytogetinvolvedandmakeadifferenceinthelivesoffosterkids.Inadditiontotheannualfundraisersanddrivesthatthenon-profitsponsors,theyalsoencouragepeopletohelpbyvolunteeringtoamentorachild.“Ourmentorsarepositiverolemodelswhogothroughbackgroundchecksanddocontinuingtraining,”saysLandes.Timespentwithmentorsmakesavisible,positivemarkonthechildren.“It’sawayforkidstogetoutsideoftheircomfortzone,and[it]showsthemthatsomeoneisthereandcaresaboutthem.”Foryears,theorganizationhastakenacollaborativeapproachtoreachtheirgoals.KevinDurant,forwardfortheOklahomaCityThunder,madeheadlinesinDecember2010forhelpingtopassoutChristmasgiftstounderprivilegedchildren.“Welovedworkingwithhimandhisteam,”saysMitchell.“Theywereallaboutthekids.[Theywantedtodo]anythingtomakeitgoodandmemorableforthekids,”saysLandes.

Citizens Caring For Children: One Smile at a Time “We’remoms!”Thisissaidwithasmilethatonlyaparentwouldrecognize.Thewordsseemtoshootbeyondthemouthofthespeakerasitsparkstheireyesandseemstomaketheirfacesglow.AsstaffmembersofCitizensCaringforChildren(CCC)respondtoinquiriesaboutwhatmotivatesthem,theyautomaticallymentiontheirownlittleonesanditbecomesvividlyobviouswhatthisventuremeanstoeachofthem.They’vefoundawaytoturnatruepassionintoasuccessfulnon-profitorganizationthathelpsclothechildreninfostercare.

Forthehardworkingmothersatthisnearlythree-decade-oldfoundation,advocatingforchildreninacrowdedDHS(DepartmentofHumanServices)systemisreasonenoughtoheadtoworkeveryday.Thisiswhatittrulymeanstocare.

Runners at the Redbud Classic race to benefit charitable causes. This year’s beneficiary is Citizens Caring for Children.



FundraisingThestaffiscurrentlygearingupfortheirannualfundraiser,BidsforKids,whichwillbeheldMay5.“It’sourmajorfundraiserthatgoestowardsoperatingtheresourcecenterandourotherprograms,”saysMitchell.ThereareanumberofwaysthatanyonecanhelpCCCreachtheirgoals.“Everythingthatweprovidethroughtheresourcecenterisbrandnew.Wearealwayslookingforpeopletoholddrives,andwealsotakedonations.Weservebirthto[age]21,”saysLandes.Throughtheiryearsofservice,CCChasshownhowlong-termdedicationcantrulyhelpadvocateforkidswhostrugglewithunfortunatecircumstances.Ascholarshipfundandamusicprogramareintheworks,buttheteamisprimarilyfocusedonbuildingpermanentconnectionstothechildrenwithwhomtheycomeincontact.TheyhopetoendacycleofneglectbycontinuingtoprovideavoiceforthethousandsofchildrenintheOklahomaDHSsystem.

“Ifwedon’thelpthisgeneration,orsomegenerationatsomepoint,we’renevergoingtoendthis,”saysMitchellwithahopefulsmile.“Iftheyturn18andhavenoone,theycanwalkbackinthesedoorsandwe’llfigureoutawaytohelp.”Showhowmuchyoucareatwww.citizenscaringforchildren.org.

Lance Evans is a pop culture enthusiast and writer. Raised in OKC, this Little Rock, AR, transplant is always on the hunt for the latest in celebrity and entertainment news. Follow him at lancee.gather.com.

The 2012 Redbud Classic CitizensCaringforChildreniscontinuingtocollaboratewithotherworthycausesbybeingtheofficialbeneficiaryatthisyear’sRedbudClassic.Morethan6,500peopleparticipateintheseannualracesthataimtogetfamiliesfitandinvolvedinphilanthropy.The2012RedbudClassicfeatures5kand10kruns,a5kwheelchairevent,atwomilewalk,ababystrollerderbyandaonemilechildren’srun.Thebikingeventsandchildren’srunswilltakeplaceonSaturday,April14,andthewalkingeventsarescheduledonSunday,April15.Updatedinformationonthestarttimesforeachevent,registrationcostandparticipantsignupcanbefoundatwww.redbud.org.ThestaffatCitizensCaringforChildrenhopesthattheeventwillserveasawayformorepeopletolearnabouttheorganization.“WeneedvolunteerstohelpwithalltheeventsonSaturdayandtheraceonSunday,”saysLandes.

Friendly faces cheer on the runners at the Redbud Classic.


http://www.citizenscaringforchildren.org

http://www.redbud.org


Your Healthy FamilyGetting Fit as a Family

Let’sfaceit…withtoday’sbusyschedules,spendingtimetogetherasafamilyisoftenachallenge,anditmay

seemimpossibletofindtimeforexercise!Butwhatifwecombinedthesepursuits?

Recentstatisticstellusthatoverall,Oklahomansneedtogethealthier.Infact,theobesityrateinOklahomahasgrownfasterthanANYotherstateoverthepast15years,andourstateiscurrentlyrankedseventhinthenation,withanobesityrateof31.4percent.Inaddition,67percentofOklahomansareconsideredoverweight,including30percentofourchildren.Furthermore,Oklahomaisoneofonlytwostatesinthenationthatdoesnothaveahealtheducationrequirementforchildreninpublicschools,meaningtheburdenshiftsbacktothefamilies,wheremanyadultsinthestatearestrugglingthemselves.Makingphysicalfitnessafamilyaffairisagoodwaytogetbothadultsandchildrenontheroadtobetterhealth.

Let’s Move!Oklahomaisnotaloneinitsstruggle,asthetendencytowardobesityhasrisenacrossthecountryinrecentyears.Infact,FirstLadyMichelleObamalaunchedtheLet’sMove!Campaignin2010,stating“thephysicalandemotionalhealthofanentiregenerationandtheeconomichealthandsecurityofournationisatstake.”Accordingtocurrentstatistics,theUnitedStateshasthehighestobesityrateintheworld.TheFirstLady’scampaignfocusesoncreatingahealthylifestylewithinthefamilyandthecommunity—astrategythathasbeenshowntoworkinotherplaces.

Prioritizing P.E.KateWaringteachesphysicaleducationinthePutnamCityschooldistrict,andsheoffersauniqueperspectiveonhealthandphysicalfitness.OriginallyfromtheUnitedKingdom,KaterelocatedtotheU.S.in2009.SheearnedaB.A.withjointhonorsinSports,MediaandHealthandLeisureatTrinityandAllSaintsUniversityofLeeds,U.K.In2011,sheearnedherM.Ed.inSecondaryEducationspecializinginPhysicalEducationfromtheUniversityofCentralOklahoma,andisafirst-yearteacher.Shehasworkedinthehealthandleisureindustryforthepast16yearsinboththepublicandprivatesectors,andhasservedasafitnessinstructor,personaltrainerandcoach.“Physicaleducationhasalwaysbeenapassionofmine,anddatesbacktomyhighschooldays.“InEngland,moreemphasisisplaced

onhealth,wellnessandparticipation.Nooneisexcludedfrombeinginvolvedintheactivitiesoffered.Thisinvolvementaffordedmeanunderstandingoftheimportanceofexercise,health,andpersonalresponsibility.Imean,ifyoudon’tlookafteryourbody,whereareyougoingtolive?”

Sending a Healthy MessageKatetakesherresponsibilityseriously,andstrivestocommunicatethismessagetoherstudents,encouragingthemtobehealthy.“Iwanttoshowmystudentsthatitismoreaboutbeingphysicallyactivethanworkingout.Itrytogetawayfromthestereotypeofworkingoutinagym,andtrytoshowthemdifferentwaystheycanbephysicallyactivewhilehavingfun.It’saboutcreatingahealthyimageofphysicalactivityandshowingthemdifferentgamesandactivitiestheycantakehometotheirfamilies.”Whenitcomestogettingfamiliesinvolved,Katestressesthedailyrecommendationofonehourofmoderatetovigorousexercise.“Iencouragefamiliestovisittheirlocalcity’swebsiteandcheckouttheParksandRecreationsection(seesidebar).Mylocalparkhasplaygroundequipment,walkingtrails,arockwall,astretching/calisthenicsarea,tennisandvolleyballcourts,openfields,baseballfieldsandhorseshoes—andthebestpartis,it’sallabsolutelyfree.”Infact,thereareanumberofcity-runparksinOklahomathatofferfamily-friendlyactivities.“It’sjustamatterofgettingonlineandseeingwhichoneisclosesttoyou!Evenreallysimplethingslikewalkingthedogorgettingupearlyandtakingafamilybikeridewillmakeadifference.It’sallaboutbeingactive,andifthekidsseemomanddadhavingfun,theyaregoingtowanttodoitallthemore.”Anothergreatwaytogetkidsexcitedaboutexercisingistocreateafamilychallenge.Waringexplains,“Geteveryoneapedometer,thenseewhowalksthemoststepsinaday,week,ormonth.Haverewards,makeitfunandkeepitfresh!”

The End ResultThebottomline?“Physicalactivityandahealthy,balanceddietaresoimportantforchildrenandtheirdevelopment.Therearesomanydistractions,somuchstimulation,andsucheasyaccesstofastfood,andunfortunately,we’reseeingtheresultsofthatwithhighratesofobesity,Type2diabetes,andothermedicalcomplications.Regularphysicalactivityisnecessarytogiveyourmindandbodywhatitneeds.Ithelpswithconcentrationandweightcontrolandelevatesmood.Iamfearfulofwhatitwilltakeforpeopletotakephysicalactivityandhealthydietsseriously.Itisestimatedthatthisgenerationofchildrenwillbeoutlivedbytheirparents,whichisscary.Youaretheonlyonewhocanchangeyourdestiny!Don’tbeanotherstatistic!”saysWaring.

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

Contact Your Local Parks & Recreation DepartmentPhysicalactivitycanandshouldbeafamilyendeavor.Getmovingtogethertoday!• Edmond: www.edmondok.com/parks• Moore: www.cityofmoore.com/fun• Mustang: www.cityofmustang.org• Norman: www.normanfun.com• Oklahoma City: www.okc.gov/parks• Yukon: www.cityofyukonok.gov/city-departments/parks-recreation/


http://www.edmondok.com/parks

http://www.cityofmoore.com/fun



http://www.okc.gov/parks


Finding a copy of your favorite

local family resource has never been

easier!MetroFamily is now at all OKC area

Jimmy’s Egg locationsHomeland stores

Crest storesYMCA branches

Area libraries(MetroLibrary System and

Pioneer Library System)And over 400 additional

area businesses & schools.

You may also enjoy the convenience of a subscription

for only $21.95 per year.

Call 405-601-2081 or go tometrofamilymagazine.com/

subscribe



Kids FestOklahoma City’s premiere family fun event is here!

Join MetroFamily at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds on Saturday, March 24th from 10:00am – 4:00pm for hands-on fun, family entertainment and great giveaways.

Enjoy live entertainment from the local kindie band Spaghetti Eddie, the OKC Thunder Girls and Rumble the Bison, plus inflatables, Safety Village by Safe Kids Oklahoma, the Extreme Animals Petting Zoo & more. Also, browse over 60 booths featuring hands-on activities, information and resources for your family!

Tickets are $5 for adults and children 18 & under are free. An admission coupon and more information available at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest.

Photo Courtesy of Extreme Animals.

Medieval FairJourney back to a time of kings, queens, and knights in shining armor at the 36th Annual Medieval Fair. Held annually since 1977, this event relives the Middle Ages with arts and crafts, food, games, jousting tournaments, human chess games, reenactments and more than 200 artists and crafters offering hand crafted wares. The Fair will be held March 30 – April 1 at Reaves Park (Jenkins Ave, north of Highway 9 in Norman.) 10:00am – 7:00pm daily. Admission to the fair is free, and $5 parking is available at the Lloyd Noble Center, just across the street. For more information, call 405-366-8095 or visit www.medievalfair.org.

Photo courtesy of Medieval Fair.

Sesame Street LiveAll your favorite Sesame Street friends are taking to the stage to share their love of music in "Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music,” at Cox Convention Center from Friday, March 16 through Sunday, March 18. New this year is the Play Zone—a fun new way for children to experience their favorite street by sitting in Big Bird’s nest, popping up in Oscar’s trash can and more. Play Zone opens one hour before the show and is free with your Sesame Street Live ticket. Tickets begin at $13. For more information, visit www.sesamestreetlive.com.

TM/© 2012 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. Photo courtesy of VEE Corporation. Photo provided by Bruce Silcox.

Tornado Alley IMAX PremiereScience Museum Oklahoma’s new IMAX film Tornado Alley uses science to take viewers straight into the heart of an actual tornado. Join severe weather experts and storm chasers for this exciting premiere in Science Museum Oklahoma’s Omnidome on Friday, March 9, 9:00am – 5:00pm and Saturday, March 10, 9:00am

– 6:00pm to learn how storms work. Dome tickets are $8.95 for adults (ages 13 and up) and $6.95 for children (ages 4 – 12.) For more information, call 405-602-6664 or visit sciencemuseumok.org.

Photo Courtesy of Science Museum Oklahoma.

Saturday,March 24

MARCH 30- APRIL 1




http://www.medievalfair.org

http://www.sesamestreetlive.com

http://www.sesamestreetlive.com


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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Osteology10301 S. Sunnylane Rd, OKC814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org

Myriad Botanical Gardens301 W Reno, OKC297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oklahoma History Center800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC522-0765, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org

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

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

Do you have an event for our calendar? Email [email protected]

All phone numbers are area code 405 unless otherwise noted. Information should be verified before attending events as details can change after press date.

Weekly EventsDiscovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History are hands-on fun for toddlers through elementary age children. See website for complete list & details. All programs FREE with paid admission.

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).

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) includes 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30-8pm. 200-1691, www.jumpzoneparty.com.

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

Toddler Time at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) invites toddlers to play in a gym full of toys & activities. $2 or FREE with Town Center membership. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-noon. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Story Time at Be Wild For Art (1006 24th Ave NW, Norman) invites children to hear a story & paint a piece of pottery based on the story’s theme. See website for story, project theme & cost. Tuesday & Wednesday, 10:30am. 307-9971, www.bewildforart.com.

FREE Tuesday Noon Concert Series at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art are 30-minute concerts are performed by OU music students & faculty on Tuesdays when school is in session. Admission to the museum is FREE on Tuesdays.

FREE Playgroup with a Purpose at Wildwood Community Church (1501 24th Ave NE, Norman) provides fun, fellowship & character building for moms & their little ones ages 6 & under. Snacks provided. Held the first Wednesday of each month through May. 10-11:30am. 301-7321, www.growingcharacter.com.

FREE Tours of the Governor’s Mansion available the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month. Closed during the summer & the month of December. 10am-3pm. 568-1292, www.ok.gov.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Quail Springs Barnes & Noble (13800 N May) every Wednesday & Saturday, 11am. 755-1155, www.barnesandnoble.com.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library. Held every Wednesday, 6-8pm. 231-8650.

Family Fun Day at Celebration Station (509 Westline) features unlimited rides & a pizza buffet for $15.99 per person. Thursdays, 4-9pm. 942-7888, www.celebrationstation.com.

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

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

FREE Build & Grow Kid’s Clinics at Lowe’s stores offers kids an opportunity to complete a wooden project. Each participant also receives an apron, goggles, a project-themed patch, & a certificate of merit. See website for schedule, 10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

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

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11am. 340-9202, www.bestofbooksedmond.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Ages 3 & up. Saturdays, 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) features rollerskating lessons for beginner, intermediate & advanced. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com.

All-Star Bowling for Differently-Abled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main, Yukon) invites differently-abled individuals, their families & friends to participate in an afternoon of bowling. $8 per week for 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. Please email [email protected] to verify schedule. 354-2516.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission. Saturdays, 1-4pm. No activities on 3/17 due to the museum's 10th Anniversary Celebration

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects in Martin Park. Saturdays 2-5pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE Screenings of Discovery’s “Planet Earth” at the Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Sundays in March, 3pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park.

FREE Open House at TechJOYnt (8328 Glade) presents information about this hands-on after-school education academy based on science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics. Sundays, 2-4pm. 345-5010, www.techjoynt.org.

FREE Art Moves presented by Devon Energy and the Arts Council of OKC provides FREE lunchtime arts events in the downtown OKC area, including performances, artist demonstrations, short film selections & artist/curator discussions. See website for schedule. Monday-Friday, noon-1pm. 270-4892, www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves.

Ongoing Events March 9-May 911th Annual Respect Diversity Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma is filled with art & poetry collaborations by students of all ages who have explored other cultures, human rights and/or other diversity issues. FREE with paid museum admission.

Quick Reference


http://www.banjomuseum.org


http://www.edmondfinearts.com

http://www.ou.edu/fjjma

http://www.oklahomaheritage.com

http://www.museumofosteology.org

http://www.myriadgardens.com


http://www.okaquarium.org


http://www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org

http://www.okczoo.com


http://www.oklahomahistorycenter.org

http://www.snomnh.ou.edu



http://www.jumpzoneparty.com


http://www.bewildforart.com

http://www.growingcharacter.com

http://www.ok.gov

http://www.barnesandnoble.com

http://www.celebrationstation.com

http://www.celebrationstation.com

http://www.ucojazzlab.com

http://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com


http://www.fullcirclebooks.com

http://www.bestofbooksedmond.com

http://www.bestofbooksedmond.com

http://www.lakeshorelearning.com

http://www.skategalaxyokc.com

http://www.skategalaxyokc.com


http://www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park



http://www.techjoynt.org

http://www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves

http://www.artscouncilokc.com/art-moves


Through March 16FREE Farm Life Traveling Exhibit at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features historical facts & farming equipment from around the United States. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

Through March 24Healing Studio Exhibition at the Firehouse Art Center (444 S Flood, Norman) features works by students in the Healing Studio, a place for individuals with varying degrees of cognitive, physical & artistic abilities to be challenged, educated & celebrated through visual arts education & self-expression. 329-4523, www.normanfirehouse.com.

Through March 25Pictorial Rugs of the Orient Exhibit at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features a rare assemblage of pictorial rugs from the Middle East. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Through March 31Dr. Pepper Vending Machine Art Contest at the OKC Zoo invites kids in grades K-12 to enter for a chance to win. Entry forms available at www.okczoo.com accepted through March 31.

Through April 8Chihuly Northwest at the OKC Museum of Art features works highlighting recent works by the artist that explore the color white.

Pueblo to Pueblo: the Legacy of Southwest Indian Pottery at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features 74 pottery vessels illustrating the remarkable variety of pottery created from the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries.

Through April 29Highlights from the Permanent Collection of Photography, Part 1 at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art surveys the history of photography with 100 photographs from the museum’s collection.

Through May 4FREE Miradas: Ancient Roots in Modern and Contemporary Mexican Art from the Bank of America Collection at the City Arts Center features works by some of the best known Mexican artists. Monday-Thursday, 9am-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 9am-5pm. 951-0000, www.cityartscenter.org.

Through May 13Warrior Spirits: Oceanic Arts Exhibition at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features objects from the permanent collections of the Sam Noble Museum & the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art

created & used by the indigenous peoples of present-day Papua New Guinea & West Papua, Indonesia.

The Sun & His Wife Exhibit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum depicts the ceremonial & domestic life of the Southwest Indians.

Princely Treasures: European Masterpieces 1600-1800 from the Victoria & Albert Museum at the OKC Museum of Art showcases eighty objects from the collections of European decorative art of the 17th & 18th centuries from miniature to the monumental.

NEW FRONTIERS: Julie Heffernan at the OKC Museum of Art presents twenty large-scale contemporary works by artist Julie Heffernan.

Through May 31Pickin’ & Grinnin’: Roy Clark, Hee Haw & Country Humor exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center celebrates Oklahoma’s ties to the beloved television show.

Bound to Please: A History of Corsets at the Carnegie Library (406 E Oklahoma, Guthrie) showcases undergarments as a symbol of growth in women’s history from the Middle Ages through the present. 282-1889, www.okterritorialmuseum.org.

Through June 6Rock, Paper, Scissors at Science Museum Oklahoma is an interactive art installation that celebrates the multimedia works of Denise Duong & ceramics of Matt Seikel.

Through June 30The Return of Elegance at the Oklahoma History Center features 29 evening gowns worn by Oklahoma women at inaugural balls & other special occasions as well as footwear & handbags from 1912 – 1985.

Through December 9Oklahoma & Infamy at the Oklahoma History Center marks the 70th anniversary of the United States’ entrance into WWII through the Oklahomans who experienced the devastation. Includes artifacts,

1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31

MARCH S M T W T F S

Metropolitan Library Systemwww.metrolibrary.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

Pioneer Library Systemwww.pls.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

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com/subscribe-to-weekend-picks

Looking for a fun Looking for a fun Looking for a fun Looking for a fun Looking for a fun Looking for a fun Looking for a fun family activity?family activity?family activity?family activity?family activity?family activity?

Subscribe to MetroFamily’s Subscribe to MetroFamily’s Subscribe to MetroFamily’s Subscribe to MetroFamily’s Weekend PicksWeekend PicksWeekend Picksto keep in the know. to keep in the know.

Looking for a fun family activity?

Subscribe to MetroFamily’s Weekend Picks to keep in the know.


http://www.edmondhistory.org


http://www.normanfirehouse.com

http://www.normanfirehouse.com

http://www.mgmoa.org

http://www.okczoo.com


http://www.okterritorialmuseum.org

http://www.metrolibrary.org

http://www.pls.lib.ok.us

http://www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com/subscribe-to-weekend-picksLooking

http://www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com/subscribe-to-weekend-picksLooking


Japanese flight suits & naval uniforms, interviews with veterans & personal letters. FREE admission to veterans & active duty military.

March 20121 • ThursdayFREE Smart Start Central Oklahoma Early Birds School Readiness Class at Western Heights (8005 NW 44 & Council) for parents of children ages birth to 5 years. Preregister. 6-7:30pm. 261-6733, www.smartstartcentraloklahoma.com.

Traffic Jam Fashion Show at the OKC Farmer’s Public Market (311 S Klein) benefits the Beautiful Dream Society's mission to help fight human trafficking. Includes dinner. $75. 6:30pm. 408-0767, www.beautifuldream.tv.

“Tchaikovsky” St. Petersburg State Orchestra at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features a repertoire ranging from the Baroque to 20th century music. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.com.

1-4OKC Auto Show at State Fair Park includes car exhibits, children’s area & more. $10, children 6 & under FREE. Thursday-Friday, 11am-9pm; Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm. www.okcautoshow.org.

The Lark at UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre (100 N University, Edmond) tells the story of Joan of Arc. Thursday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

2 • FridayForensics Day at Science Museum Oklahoma explores the science behind crime scene investigation with experts from OSBI. FREE with paid museum admission. 9am-4pm.

First Friday Gallery Walk at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum invites guests to learn more about the Museum’s Southwest on an informative gallery walk. FREE with museum admission. 11-11:45am.

An Evening with the Rodeo Opry at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) is “Oklahoma’s Official Country Music Show”. $15 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

March 2-3FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com.

March 2-4Timed Event Championship at the Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E, Guthrie) features 5 competitions in one

of the most prestigious events in professional rodeo. 282-7433, www.lazye.com.

Watonga Trout Derby at Roman Nose State Park gives fishermen an opportunity to catch tagged trout for prizes. Junior Division ages 17 & younger, Senior Division ages 18 & older. Preregister. $10 junior, $20 senior. 580-623-5452, www.watongachamber.com.

March 2-16Red vs. the Wolf presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre at the Children’s Center for the Arts (NW 25 & Blackwelder) tells the wolf’s side of the classic story of Red Riding Hood. $9 adults, $6 children ages 2-12. Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm. 951-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

March 2-25The Color Purple presented by the Poteet Theatre at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15). For ages 13 & up. Some adult themes. $20. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 609-1023, www.poteettheatre.com.

3 • SaturdayEdmond Mothers of Multiples Children’s Consignment Sale at First Church of the Nazarene (3001 S Boulevard, Edmond). $1 admission per family. 8am-2pm. www.edmondmoms.com.

Deer Creek Classic at Deer Creek Middle School (21175 N MacArthur, Edmond) features a 10K, 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run benefitting Deer Creek Public Schools PTO. $35. 8:30am. www.deercreekclassic.com.

FREE Cloth Diaper Basics at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel) invites parents to learn about the “new” cloth diapers. No purchase necessary. Preregister. 9am. 848-2330, www.green-bambino.com. Also held 3/17.

FREE Trout Fish Out at Robertson Activity Center Pond (1200 Lakeshore, Yukon) is a fishing contest for young anglers with prizes awarded for different categories. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 10am-1pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

FREE Saturdays for Kids-Basket Weaving at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum invites kids to learn to create a basket. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE museum admission for kids & one accompanying adult.10am-noon.

FREE Smart Start Central Oklahoma Early Birds School Readiness Class at Linwood Elementary (3416 NW 17) for parents of children ages birth to 5 years old. Preregister. 10:30am-noon & 1:30-3pm. 587-0422, www.smartstartcentraloklahoma.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Designer Mirror” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites kids ages 3 & up to design & decorate a fanciful mirror with gems, glitter paint & more. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Farm FEST! at Edmond Historical Society


http://www.smartstartcentraloklahoma.com


http://www.beautifuldream.tv

http://www.beautifuldream.tv

http://www.armstrongauditorium.com


http://www.okcautoshow.org

http://www.uco.edu/cfad/events

http://www.soonertheatre.org


http://www.thepaseo.com


http://www.lazye.com

http://www.watongachamber.com



http://www.poteettheatre.com

http://www.poteettheatre.com

http://www.edmondmoms.com

http://www.deercreekclassic.com


http://www.cityofyukonok.gov






& Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a horticultural project & petting zoo. 1-4pm. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

FREE Open House at Kumon Math & Reading Center of Norman (1320 N Interstate, Norman) invites families to come learn how Kumon can make a difference in children's academic lives. 1-4pm. 364-1600, www.kumon.com/norman.

Musical Surprises presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features violinist Rachel Barton Pine. $15 & up. 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.com.

March 3-September 16A Century of Magic: The Animation of the Walt Disney Studios at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art surveys many of the major animated films & includes more than 80 cels used in the original production of the animated films. Opening reception 3/3, 4-6pm.

4 • SundayDiscovery Family Series: Peter & the Wolf & Other Tales presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features musical narratives for both children & parents. $9. 2pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.com.

Memorial’s Got Talent at First Christian Church (2nd & Boulevard) benefits Edmond Memorial High School’s Swine Week fundraiser in their support of Oklahoma Project Women. 6:30pm. www.swineweek.com.

Winter Wind Concert Series: Big Wide Grin at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) features the bi-coastal trio of Elaine Dempsey, Lawrence Lambert & Karl Werne. $20. 7-9pm. 307-9320, www.pasnorman.org.

5 • MondayFREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

FREE Mad Scientist Lab at the Midwest City Library calls all young scientists ages 6-12 to discover more about the world around them. Preregister. 4:30-5:15pm.

FREE Seussville at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang) celebrates Dr. Seuss with a crazy sock parade, reading time, games, cake & more. 6-8pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

OKC Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 7pm. www.nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 3/7, 9, 10, 13, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25.

5-19FREE The Hunger Games Lecture Series at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) features

John Granger as he shares his thoughts on the artistry & meaning of Suzanne Collins' Panem Saga. Held consecutive Monday evenings leading up to the movie premiere. 7pm. 842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com.

6 • TuesdayTiny Tuesdays: Little Leprechauns at the OKC Museum of Art invite families for a come & go, open-ended art making activity geared towards children ages 2-5 with a parent or caregiver. FREE with paid museum admission. 10am-noon.

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to enjoy storytelling at its finest with the museum's performer-puppeteer extraordinaire. FREE with paid museum admission. 10am & 2pm.

7 • WednesdayEsther Women Luncheon at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15) creates meaningful dialogue & strengthens fellowship for Christian women. Features inspirational music courtesy of OCU & St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Held the first Wednesday of each month. Preregister. $150/ year, $20/individual program. 11:30am-1pm. 232-1371, www.estherwomenokc.org.

March 7-11Contemporary Dance Oklahoma at OU Rupel Jones Theatre (563 Elm, Norman) features modern dance works ranging from the Sorcerer’s Apprentice to Grofé’s Grand Canyon Suite. 8-10pm. 325-4101, www.ou.edu/finearts/events.

8 • ThursdayConstructing the Vision – Education Redefined presented by Veritas Classical Academy at the OKC Marriott (3233 NW Expressway) features author Susan Wise Bauer & musical Michael Card. Cost TBD. 5:30-9pm. 310-2733, www.constructingthevision.com.

Doc Severinsen & His Big Band at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) features the Grammy-winning trumpeter & a traditional big band covering Basie & Ellington to Broadway & Hollywood. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.com.

Veritas Classical Academy Fundraising Banquet at OKC Marriott (3233 NW Expressway) features homeschool favorite Susan Wise Bauer & Christian musician Michael Card and benefits the “Constructing the Vision” fundraising campaign. $50 per person. 6-9pm. www.constructingthevision.com.

March 8-11Sing for Your Supper: A Rogers & Hart Celebration at UCO Jazz Lab (100 E 5, Edmond) features one of theatre’s greatest duos. Preregister. 8pm. 359-7989, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.



http://www.kumon.com/norman

http://www.kumon.com/norman

http://www.okcphilharmonic.com




http://www.swineweek.com

http://www.pasnorman.org

http://www.pasnorman.org


http://www.nba.com/thunder


http://www.fullcirclebooks.com

http://www.estherwomenokc.org

http://www.estherwomenokc.org

http://www.ou.edu/finearts/events


http://www.constructingthevision.com


http://www.constructingthevision.com


March 8-25Gypsy presented by the OKC Theatre Company at Civic Center Music Hall follows the story of an aggressive stage mother & her two daughters in the 1920s when vaudeville was dying & burlesque was born. $25. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 297-2264, www.okctheatrecompany.org.

9 • FridayTornado Alley IMAX Premier Day at Science Museum Oklahoma includes the movie premiere and an opportunity to interact with storm chasers, meteorologists & experts. 10am-4pm.

Art Demonstration at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers Native American art demonstrations in conjunction with the exhibitions Pueblo to Pueblo: The Legacy of Southwest Indian Pottery & The Sun & His Wife. FREE with paid museum admission. 10:30am-noon & 1:30-3:30pm. Also held: 3/16, 17, 19-24.

FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art provides live music, short films & an art activity in connection with Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art. 6-9pm.

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, www.2ndfridaynorman.com.

FREE Student Art Exhibit Opening Reception at Sonder Music, Dance & Art (225 E Gray, Norman) features work by students ages 8-13. 7-9pm. 474-9734, www.sondermusic.com.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes art walk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org.

OKC Barons vs. Lake Erie Monsters at the Cox Convention Center. 7pm. $14 & up. www.okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 3/10, 13, 23, 24, 25.

March 9-10Pass It On Kids Consignment Sale at Church of the Harvest (16000 N Western, Edmond). Items 50% off on Saturday. Friday, 8am-6pm; Saturday, 8am-2pm. www.passitonkids.com.

Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma Conference at Embassy Suites (2501 Conference, Norman) includes all-day Sibshop training, breakout sessions & more. $40 individual, $60 couple. 330-5025, www.dsaco.org.

March 9-11Sweet Repeats Children’s & Maternity Consignment Sale at the Edmond Armory (600 S Bryant, Edmond).

Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-3pm; Sunday, noon-3pm. 706-5712, www.sweetrepeatskidsconsignment.com.

March 9-17The Original Children’s Consignment Sale in Market Plaza (6925 NW Expressway). Closed Sunday. 10am-6pm. 721-6776, www.occsale.com.

10 • SaturdayRed Earth Run at the Chesapeake Boathouse (701 S Lincoln) includes a 10K, 5K & 1-mile Fun Walk to benefit Red Earth, Inc.. Preregister. $30 adults, $25 ages 18 & under. Registration, 7am; Race, 8am. www.redearth.org.

Oklahoma Gardening School at the Myriad Botanical Gardens features gardening & landscape professionals offering tips for gardening in Oklahoma. Preregister. 8:30am-3:15pm. 297-3995, www.myriadgardens.com.

FREE Women in Science Day at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History includes science activities, experiments & demonstrations celebrating women in science, engineering, technology & math. FREE museum admission. 10am-5pm.

Vendor/Craft Fair at Choctaw Church of the Nazarene (NE 10 & Harper, Choctaw) benefits MOPS of Choctaw Church of the Nazarene. $2 per person. 10am-4pm. 390-8403.

FREE Spring Fashion Show at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) includes an appearance by a favorite clown. 10:30-11:30am. 418-8881, www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Totally Wild Animal Headband” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites children ages 3 & up to create their own animal-shaped headband. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Metropolitan Library Tour of Much Ado About Nothing presented by Reduxion Theatre at the Midwest City Library includes a workshop at 11am followed by the production of Shakespeare’s classic tale at 1pm. Also held 3/24 at the Edmond Library.

FREE Kids' Meditation Class at Buddha Mind Monastery (5916 S Anderson) helps kids discover their inner wisdom through meditation, Dharma talks, Chan Stories & fun activities. No prerequisites. Wear comfortable, modest attire & socks. 11am-12:30pm. 869-0501, www.ctbuddhamind.org/classes. Also held 3/31.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert/Jam at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29) features three professional bluegrass bands on stage. $6, FREE ages 12 & under. 6:30pm. 677-7515, www.gobms.org.

Dad & Daughter Dance at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang) includes punch, refreshments & dancing. Advance tickets required. $5. 7-9pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

Experiences With Sound presented by the Canterbury

FINE ARTS INSTITUTE OF EDMOND

27 E. Edwards • 340-4481www.edmondfinearts.com

EnrollNOW!• All Ages & All Stages • Professional

Faculty • Friendly Atmosphere

Enroll now for Spring

Classes


http://www.okctheatrecompany.org

http://www.2ndfridaynorman.com

http://www.2ndfridaynorman.com

http://www.sondermusic.com

http://www.plazadistrict.org

http://www.okcbarons.com


http://www.passitonkids.com

http://www.passitonkids.com

http://www.dsaco.org

http://www.sweetrepeatskidsconsignment.com

http://www.sweetrepeatskidsconsignment.com

http://www.occsale.com

http://www.redearth.org

http://www.myriadgardens.com

http://www.uptownkidsstyle.com



http://www.ctbuddhamind.org/classes

http://www.gobms.org




Choral Society features music composed or performed by those who have experienced hearing loss. $25 & up. 8pm. 232-7464, www.canterburyokc.com.

FREE One Hundred & One Dalmatians at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art screens this Disney classic in celebration of the museum's A Century of Magic: The Animation of the Walt Disney Studios exhibit. 10:30am.

FREE Build & Grow Kid’s Clinics “Carnival Hoops” at Lowe’s stores includes project, apron, goggles, themed patch & certificate of merit. See website for schedule. 10am. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

FREE Celebration of Authors 2012—Promoting Literacy in Oklahoma at the Downtown Library strives to increase literacy in Oklahoma by expanding & exposing the public to authors in the Southwest. Books available for sale. 11am-3pm.

March 10-11Buchanan’s Vintage Flea Market in the Modern Living Building at State Fair Park features a large selection of quality antiques & collectibles. www.buchananmarkets.com.

FREE Next Generation Weekend at Bass Pro Shops (200 Bass Pro) features fishing in the indoor pond, kids fishing basics seminars & more. See website for schedule of events. Noon-5pm. 218-5200, www.basspro.com.

March 10-24The Museum Store Sidewalk Sale at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. 10am-5pm.

11 • SundayKidapalooza Children’s Concert sponsored by Swine Week at Edmond Memorial High School (1000 E 15, Edmond) features local kindie band Spaghetti Eddie. Advanced tickets required. $12, children, $15 adults. 2pm, www.swineweek.org.

FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art celebrates A Century of Magic: The Animation of the Walt Disney Studios with FREE admission to the museum & hands-on art activities. 1-4pm.

13 • TuesdayArts! Arts! Arts! 21st Annual Fundraiser hosted by OU Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts at the Skirvin Hotel (1 Park Ave) showcases OU fine arts students and theatrical guests. 6-9pm. 325-7376, www.ou.edu/finearts/events.

FREE Gallery Talk: A Collector’s Perspective at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art joins one of the collectors of Disney animation cels, Janis Scaramucci, on a walking tour of A Century of Magic: The Animation of the Walt Disney Studios. 12:30pm.

March 13-18STOMP presented by Celebrity Attractions at the Civic

Spring Break ActivitiesAreyourkidsreadytorelax,unwindandhavesomefunduringSpringBreak?Areyoulookingforwardtoachancetovisitplacesthatyounormallydon'tgoonschooldays?Whetheryouarelookingforwaystogetoutofthehousewithoutbreakingthebank,keepthelearningprocessgoingwhiletheyareoutofschoolorjusttomakememoriesandenjoyfamilyfuntogether,thislistwillhelpyoufindthebestplacestobeandthemostfunthingstododuringSpringBreakintheOKCmetroarea.

17 • SaturdayFREE Crafts for Kids “Lucky Shamrock Rainbow Ribbon” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites kids ages 3 & up to design a St. Patrick’s Day streamer. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE St. Patrick’s Day Event at the Bethany Library (3510 N Mueller, Bethany) features the Celtic Cadence Dance Company presenting traditional & modern dances of the Emerald Isle. 3-4pm.

17-18Family Day at the OKC Museum of Art features hands-on art making, live performance by Spaghetti Eddie, face painting, door prize drawings & more. FREE with paid museum admission. Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm.

19-23Spring Break Escape! at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History explores the natural & cultural history of Oklahoma through crafts, auditorium shows, storytelling, scavenger hunts & more. Programs are FREE with paid museum admission. Check the website for daily schedule. 10am-5pm.

Splash Break at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) celebrates Spring Break with special presentations, hands-on activities, games & more celebrating the theme of “Extreme Amazon” in anticipation of upcoming exhibiton. FREE with paid admission. .

19-24Orr Family Farm Opens for Spring Break (14400 S Western) invites guests to ride the zipline, play on the jumping pillows, enjoy the playground, pet the animals, take a train or pony ride & more. $10.50 per person. 10am-6pm. 799-FARM, www.orrfamilyfarm.com.

20-22FREE Spring Break Blast! at Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a different educational program each day. Preregister. 10-11am. 340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org.

21 • WednesdayFREE “Little Read” Book Discussion at the Blanchard Library (300 N Main, Blanchard) invites children in grades K-3 to read & discuss Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China as well as enjoy a craft & snacks. Preregister. 10:30-11:45am. 485-2275, www.pls.lib.ok.us.

Campers having fun at the Oklahoma Children's Theatre's Spring Break camp.

Courtesy of Oklahoma Children's Theatre.


http://www.canterburyokc.com


http://www.buchananmarkets.com

http://www.buchananmarkets.com

http://www.basspro.com

http://www.basspro.com

http://www.swineweek.org




http://www.orrfamilyfarm.com


http://www.pls.lib.ok.us


Center Music Hall brings new surprises including the addition of two new full-scale routines using props like tractor tire inner tubes & paint cans. 800-869-1451, www.celebrityattractions.com.

March 15-17UCO Kaleidoscope Dancers at Mitchell Hall Theatre (100 N University, Edmond) a one-of-a-kind dance performance featuring new & innovative choreography. 7:30pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

The American Spirit Dance Company’s spring revue celebrates American dance from Hollywood to Broadway through tap, jazz and musical theater dance. $20; call 405-208-5227 or visit www.okcu.edu/ticketoffice for tickets and times.

16 • FridayFREE Hunger Games Night at the Del City Library celebrates the release of the movie with an evening of games, trivia, food & prizes. 4:30-6pm. Also held 3/22 at the Midwest City Library.

Bright Night of Star Wars at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests for an overnight at the museum as they go deep into the Science of light sabers & explore the forces of both Isaac Newton & Yoda. $35 members, $45 non-members, $20 non-participating adult. 6pm-8:30am.

FREE Third Friday Celtic Night at Sonder Music (225 E Gray, Norman) invites guests to join the traditional Celtic music jam & dance to the live music. Held the third Friday of each month. 8-10pm. 474-9734, www.sondermusic.com.

March 16-18Sesame Street LIVE: Elmo Makes Music at the Cox Convention Center. $13 & up. Friday, 10:30am & 7pm; Saturday, 10:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm; Sunday, 1pm & 4:30pm. 602-8500, www.coxconventioncenter.com.

17 • SaturdayFREE Earth Chronicles: Oklahoma at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) explores the intersection of art, environmental sustainability & cultural preservation through a film premiere and more. Preregister. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

20 • TuesdayTuesdays at Sundown: A Brief History of Pueblo Pottery at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum traces the development of Pueblo pottery from its earliest stages to the 21st century. FREE for members, $5 nonmembers. 6:30-7:30pm.

StepCrew at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) brings together three styles of exhilarating dance forms: Irish & Ottawa Valley Stepdance & tap. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.com.

March 23-24Pink Martini presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features Thomas Lauderdale & his amazing “little orchestra” performing music from the romantic Hollywood musicals of the 40s & 50s. $27 & up. 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.

24 • SaturdayMetroFamily Kids Fest at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds Expo Building is OKC’s premier family fun event with family resources, hands-on activities, safety village, character corner, inflatables, stage entertainment, roaming characters, door prizes, parenting classes & more! 10am-4pm. www.metrofamilymagazine.com.

FREE Cowboy Round-up at the Oklahoma History Center invites visitors to visit the cowboys & chuck wagon, participate in activities & explore the museum. Includes a blood drive with the American Red Cross. 10am-2pm.

FREE Crafts for Kids “Spring Flower Bouquet” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites children ages 3 & up to create their own basket-shaped masterpiece. 11am-3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE New Parents’ Class “We’re Home from the Hospital….Now What?” at Green Bambino (5120 N Shartel). Space is limited. Preregister. 1pm. 848-2330, www.green-bambino.com.

The Screwtape Letters presented by Fellowship Performing Arts at Rose State Performing Arts Theatre (6420 SE 15, Midwest City) is a theatrical adaptation of the CS Lewis novel about spiritual warfare. $29 & up. 4pm & 8pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com.

27 • TuesdayFREE Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit Gala at Science Museum Oklahoma includes an awards ceremony & exhibit with over 50 collaborative works of

art by students in PreK through university age who have explored diversity. Preregister. 359-0369. 5-7pm.

Vishtén at OCCC Bruce Owen Theatre (7777 S May) features the essentially Celtic sound of four seventh-generation Acadians. $10-$22. 7-9pm. 682-7576, www.occc.edu/cas.

Jubilant Sykes at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant, Edmond) is an American baritone who draws on gospel & jazz influences to perform differing musical genres. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.com.

FREE Calm Waters Center for Children & Families Support Groups (4334 NW Expressway, Suite 101) run through the week of May 17. Preregister. 841-4800, www.calmwaters.org.

28 • WednesdayScience of SMO: Security at Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to have fun with the museum's security staff & learn about the science of keeping the museum secure. FREE with paid museum admission. 9am-5pm.

Homeschool Day at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln) provides educational, hands-on activities for ages 5-12. Preregister. $8 per student ages 5 & up. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com.

March 28-April 14Spring Awakening presented by Lyric Theatre at the Plaza (1725 NW 16) explores the intimate journey from adolescence to adulthood with unforgettable poignancy & passion. Rated R. $40. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com.

29 • ThursdayFREE Pioneer Library System's The Big Read Kick-Off Event at the Embassy Suites Hotel (2501 Conference, Norman) features live music, entertainment, hors d’ouvres, mock-tails & information about activities associated with the Big Read. Receive a FREE copy of The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan by registering for a book discussion. 5-7pm. www.bigreadok.com.

Valery & Friends at UCO Jazz Lab (100 E 5, Edmond) features UCO Artist-in-Residence Valery Kuleshov. 974-3375, www.ucojazzlab.com.

March 29-31Adorable Affordables Children’s Consignment Sale at Payne County Expo Center (Hwy 51 & Fairgrounds, Stillwater). Some items half-price on Saturday. Thursday-Friday, 9am-7pm; Saturday, 8am-2pm. 747-7304, www.adorableaffordable.net.

FREE 2012 FIRST Robotics Competition Oklahoma Regional at the Cox Convention Center features teams of students competing with the robots that they have built. www.usfirst.org.


http://www.celebrityattractions.com


http://www.okcu.edu/ticketoffice

http://www.okcu.edu/ticketoffice



http://www.coxconventioncenter.com




http://www.okcphilharmonic





http://www.okcciviccenter.com

http://www.occc.edu/cas

http://www.occc.edu/cas



http://www.calmwaters.org

http://www.harnhomestead.com

http://www.lyrictheatreokc.com

http://www.lyrictheatreokc.com

http://www.bigreadok.com

http://www.ucojazzlab.com

http://www.adorableaffordable.net

http://www.usfirst.org


30 • FridayKids Trout Fishing Clinic at the 12th Avenue Recreation Center (1701 12th Ave NE, Norman) teaches kids ages 5-15 the basics of fishing. Preregister. 7-9pm. 325-7288, www.normanfun.com.

March 30-31Monkey Business Children’s Consignment Sale at the Purcell Expo Center (2101 Hardcastle, Purcell). Many items 50% off on Saturday. Friday, 9am-7pm; Saturday, 9am-2pm. 623-9434, www.monkeybusinessok.com.

March 30-April 1FREE 36th Annual Medieval Fair at Reaves Park (2501 S Jenkins, Norman) features live entertainment, rides, food, crafts, costumed characters & more. 10am-7pm. www.medievalfair.org.

31 • FridayRun Your Cookies Off 5K hosted by Girl Scout Troop 889 at Mitch Park in Edmond. Preregister $20 under 15, $25 ages 15 & up. 7:30am. 708-275-4784.

Muscular Dystrophy Association 28th Annual Baby Pageant at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School (801 NW 50) features 11 categories for both boys & girls from 1 month to 5 years old as well as a Best Baby Photo contest & a chance to take pictures with the Easter Bunny. Registration packets available at 7-Eleven stores or by calling MDA. $30 before March 28, $35 the day of the event. 722-8001.

FREE George Hulsey Memorial Trout Derby at Norman's NE Lions Park - Willow Pond for ages 15 & under accompanied by an adult. 8am-noon. 325-7288, www.normanfun.com.

Oklahoma Heritage Land Run 5K at Regatta Park benefits the Oklahoma Heritage Association & the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum. $25. 8:30am. 850-5834, www.oklahomaheritage.com.

2nd Annual Wings to Fly Run at Fort Reno (7107 W Cheyenne, El Reno) benefits the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals & includes a 15K, 5K & Miracle Mile Fun Run. Entry fees increase $5 after March 25. $35 15K, $20 5K, $15 Fun Run. 9am. 271-9043, www.okchf.org.

Spring Bake Day at Fort Gibson Historic Site (907 N Garrison, Fort Gibson) features bread baked using original 1800s recipes & baking techniques in an original brick oven. 10am-2pm. 918-478-4088, www.fortgibson.com.

FREE Spaghetti Eddie Concert at Uptown Kids (5840 Classen Curve) features music, an Easter egg hunt & a visit from the Easter Bunny. 10:30-11:30am. www.uptownkidsstyle.com.

FREE Crafts for Kids “A Buggy Scene” at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) invites kids ages 3 & up to create critter-shaped stick puppets. 11am-3pm. 858-

8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Carved in Stone: The Meaning of Graveyard Graphics at the Oklahoma History Center explores the language & symbols found within graveyards to learn more than just dates & names. FREE with museum admission, preregister. 1-3pm.

Off the Wall Fundraiser benefitting the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) gives guests 30 seconds to choose a piece of local artwork off of the wall. Ticket includes one piece of artwork, admission for two, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, drinks & entertainment. Preregister. 6:30pm. 878-5604, www.mgmoa.org/offthewall.

Eiffel Tower 3-Hour Session at Paint Your Art Out (100 N Broadway, Edmond) invites guests to create their own masterpiece on canvas. Register online. $45. 7pm. 513-5333, www.paintyourartout.net.

Sumptuous Strings presented by the OKC Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall features violinist David Kim & cellist Carter Brey. $15 & up. 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.com.

APRIL 2012April 1Princess Run 2K & Little Dude Dash 1K at the Devon Boathouse in the OKC Boathouse District for boys & girls ages 12 & under features a whimsical 1.2 mile walk/run through a fairy tale village for girls & a wicked cool half-mile run/walk for boys. Prereigster. $20 Princess Run, $15 Little Dude Dash. Festival, 1-4:30pm; Run, 2pm. www.runhers.com.

OKC Thunder vs. Chicago Bulls at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. $10 & up. 12pm. www.nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 4/2, 8, 11, 13, 24, 25.

The Magic of Music presented by the OU Schools of Music & Art & Art History at Catlett Music Center (500 W Boyd, Norman) includes a multimedia concert & Disney costume parade for children featuring selections from Disney’s Fantasia, Fantasia 2000 & other musical surprises. 3pm. 325-4101, www.ou.edu/finearts.

April 2FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

April 2-3Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is an annual celebration of Native American youth learning their native languages. Open to students preschool through high school.

April 3OKC Barons vs. Hamilton Bulldogs at the Cox Convention Center. 7pm. Tickets $14 & up, 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com. www.okcbarons.com.

Other home games this month: 4/6, 7, 13.

April 5Mechanics & Intervention: A Showcase of Rube Goldberg Projects at UCO Donna Nigh Gallery features works by freshmen students bringing Goldberg’s cartoons to life. 4-6pm. 974-3375, www.uco.edu/cfad/events.

OKC Redhawks vs. Memphis Redbirds baseball at the Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 4/6-12, 21-24, 26-29.

April 6First Friday Gallery Walk at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum invites guests to learn more about the Museum’s Southwest on an informative walk through the galleries. FREE with museum admission. 11-11:45am.

The Four Freshmen at the Sooner Theatre (100 E Main, Norman) features four-part vocal harmony like no other. $40 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org.

April 6-7FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com.

April 7Aquarium Run at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks) features a 1-mile fun run, 5K, 10K & half-marathon, as well as activities for kids and free aquarium admission for runners. $35 half-marathon & 5K, $30 10K, $20 1-mile, $10 1-mile for 12 & under. 8am.

FREE Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum invites children to enjoy a hands-on activity. Free museum admission for kids & one accompanying adult. 10am-noon.

Metropolitan Library Tour of Much Ado About Nothing presented by Reduxion Theatre at the Northwest Library includes a workshop at 11am followed by the production of Shakespeare’s classic tale at 1pm.

April 10Homeschool Day at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln) provides educational, hands-on activities for ages 5-12. Advance registration required. $8 per student ages 5 & up. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com.

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/

calendar today for more fun upcoming events!



http://www.monkeybusinessok.com

http://www.monkeybusinessok.com

http://www.medievalfair.org


http://www.oklahomaheritage.com

http://www.okchf.org

http://www.okchf.org

http://www.fortgibson.com

http://www.fortgibson.com




http://www.mgmoa.org/offthewall

http://www.mgmoa.org/offthewall

http://www.paintyourartout.net


http://www.runhers.com


http://www.ou.edu/finearts

http://www.ticketmaster.com




http://www.okcredhawks.com






http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar



Expires 4/1/12. Discount applies to total bill of Platinum Packages only.


No matter what time of year or occasion, you'll find the BEST party-

planning choices in the area right here.


Get ready to plan a great summer! MetroFamily's annual Summer Camps and Activities Guide is

coming in April.

If your business or nonprofit offers summer camps or activities, If your business or nonprofit offers summer camps or activities, don't miss the opportunity to be in front of the parents LOOKING

FOR YOU in the most popular and trusted guide to summer fun—MetroFamily's April issue.

Ad space reservation date is March 16. Call 405-601-2081, ext. 3 or email [email protected].





For our May issue, we want to kick summer off with your favorite vacation memories! Share your best vacation photos with us, from your travels inside or outside of Oklahoma. Deadline is Thursday, April 12.

Guidelines and a form to submit your photos can be found at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries.

Family Fun!In February, our readers submitted

their favorite photos of their families having fun at museums, zoos and

other attractions.

View all submissions at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/

march-2012-photos.

Robert D., age 2, and Rikki D., age 10, of Midwest City at Science Museum Oklahoma.

Madison V., age 4 and Emily V., age 5 of Oklahoma City at the Oklahoma Aquarium.

Spenser B., age 2, of Edmond at the Oklahoma Railroad Museum

Noah S., age 11, of Edmond at the Oklahoma City Zoo.

Madison, age 3; Caleb, age 7; Tyler, age 5 of Oklahoma City in Destin Harbor..


http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-photo-galleries



metrofamily magazine march 2012

Documents