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The Essent ia l Resource for Central Ok lahoma Fami l ies www.Met roFami lyMagazine.comwww.Met roFami lyMagazine.comwww

AUGUST 2009

The BIG Extracurricular Activity Guide:

Over 106 choices!

15 important back to school

health tips

Experience the Chisholm Trail in Duncan

Get ready for

BackSchool

to

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August 2009 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com 3

4 www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com August 2009

Have more family fun!Visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com

The Top Five Reasonsto visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com

this month:

5. Summer is not over yet! Check out our web-only lists of Top Ten Local Water Fun Spots (MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Places-For-Water-Fun) and Top Ten FREE Things to Do (MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Free-Places).

4. Enter our monthly giveaway featuring a grand prize of fun products valued over $500! MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Contests.

3. Got the bug to get out of town? Find everything you need in our Exploring Oklahoma with Children travel guide, perfect for family fun all year long. PLUS take advantage of all the coupons in Kids Pass. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Exploring-Oklahoma.

2. Find exclusive back to school content at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/back-to-school.

1. Learn about our upcoming Family Tweetup at an Oklahoma Redhawks game on Saturday, August 15. This event provides a perfect way to enjoy the last hurrah of summer while looking forward to school fun this fall. MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Family-Tweetup.

MetroFamilyMagazine.comThe Essential ONLINE Resource for Central Oklahoma Families

You love MetroFamily in print….Now connect with us digitally throughOur award-winning website, MetroFamilyMagazine.com

Our interactive digital edition on the home page at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Our weekly E-Update that sends the best family weekend events to your in-box every Wednesday (MetroFamilyMagazine.com/subscribe-to-E-Update)

And now you can easily NETWORK with MetroFamily!Exclusive contests and vendor offers—even exclusive events—just

for being a “follower” on Twitter and a “fan” on Facebook!

Sign up today and find out what the “BUZZ” is all about.

August 2009

Get ready to get busy. Find ideas for extracurricular activities in our BIG listing. Which activity is right for your child? Use these commitment, quantity and quality questions to fi nd out.


43 CalendarEvents and activities

36 Character FirstThe importance of building your child’s creativity

6 Dear MetroFamilyEditor’s Note

8 Exploring OklahomaHelp your “drovers” discover the Chisholm Trail in Duncan

34 Family Finances Back-to-school savings tips

10 Family ShortsNews you can use

50 The Father LifeRevisiting an old hobby

42 In Touch withRelationshipsDads matter

26 Let’s Eat: RecipesSchool lunch recipes that are anything but boring

28 Oklahoma Reads Book reviews

40 Q&A with the BeasleysSteps to take if your child shows developmental delays

14 Your Healthy Family Who needs sleep (YAWN)? Your children!

Cover Photo: ©sjlocke ❚ istockphoto.com

The Back to School Issue

1818

Ready for back to school? From shots to school buses, we’ve got you covered.

3232 Parents, fi nd your very own guide to surviving the back-to-school crunch.

3838

Info And Questions: 405-340-1404To submit events to our calendar [email protected]

Publisher Sarah L. Taylor

[email protected]

EditorMari M. Farthing

[email protected]

Art DirectorMitzi Massie

[email protected]

Advertising [email protected]

Athena DelceDana Price

Donna StewartTeresa Wilson

Office and Distribution ManagerKathy Alberty

[email protected]

Marketing SpecialistWhitney Fleming

Calendar Editor & Special Projects AssistantTerri Fields

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Editorial AssistantSherrie Horton

Graphics AssistantKathryne Taylor

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Contributing Writers

Circulation35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, YukonAlso available as a digital edition at

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

reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers

or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products,

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

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly By Inprint Publishing, Inc.

306 S. Bryant, Suite C152 • Edmond, OK 73034Fax: 405-340-1490

E-mail: [email protected]

©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2009, All Rights Reserved.Volume 12, Number 08

Dear Readers,

I just want to let you know how much I appreciate you. This email has become an indulgence for me, a place to reflect, share my thoughts, personal updates and milestones, photos of the people I love.

This month’s photo means a lot to me; it’s a four-generation snapshot of my family. There are 92 years separating the oldest and youngest—wow! It’s been a long while since I was in the same place as my Mom and Grandma. We had the great fortune to make a trip to

Wisconsin this summer, where we were able to spend time with my grandmother, parents and siblings. It’s always amazing to see a clear visual of where you’ve come from and where you are going—living away from my family it’s not always a luxury I have. I was reminded of what is truly important in life, the relationships and blessings for which I need to be most thankful.

Now we’re home and summer is quickly winding down. As much as I’m looking forward to the kids going back to school, it seems to be coming upon me quickly. Can it really be time for our back to school issue? It is—and we’ve put together an issue chock-a-block full of useful information to help you become fully prepared to get your kids into school and extracurricular activities.

Let the countdown to school begin!


Michelle Ann AndersonLisa CarpenterMari FarthingShannon FieldsLeslie GarrettKaren MitchellGayleen Rabakkuk

Dr. Julia M. RahnSue Lynn Sasser Kim SeidelKathy SenaGloria So-LloydDr. Mary Zurn

Even with this issue primarily focused on back to school• , we don’t want you to miss out on the last days of summer. Find hundreds of ideas for last-minute, close-by travel through our Exploring Oklahoma with Children guide. And your Oklahoma travel fun can continue long after school starts; it’s designed for year-round fun! Check out the Kids Pass within the guide for coupons to over 40 statewide attractions. You may request a copy be mailed to you by calling 800-652-6552 or through TravelOK.com. The Exploring Oklahoma project is sponsored by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. Learn all about it at ExploringOK.com.

Celebrate the end of summer and the start of school • at our Family Tweetup, to be held Saturday, August 15, before and during the Redhawks game. What’s a ‘tweetup,’ you ask? Mostly, it’s a meet-and-greet event for those who are active on Twitter.com. Admission to the game will be FREE for the first 150 to RSVP, only $5 per person for others who register. Find out more at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Family-Tweetup.

The entries are pouring in for our • Cover Kids Search contest. We are looking for SIX fresh, happy faces for our covers in 2010. Learn all about it and enter at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Cover-Kids. There is a $25 entry fee with part of the proceeds going to Special Olympics Special Smiles Program. Entrants will also receive a packet back in the mail with tickets and coupons to local attractions and businesses.

Our • September issue is all about Tweens and Teens. Advertise with us and reach 80,000 passionate readers. Deadline for ad space reservation is August 13. Distribution starts August 28. Call today! 405-340-1404.

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Want to get away?


Exploring OklahomaRiding the Chisholm Trail in Duncan

A recent weekend tennis tournament gave my family the opportunity to visit Duncan,

about 80 miles southwest of the Metro. The downtime between our son’s matches gave me a chance to explore the area for day getaway activities. Established along the famous Chisholm Trail, Duncan has the bragging rights to an award-winning interactive museum celebrating this cattle drive and trader trail.

The Chisholm Trail Heritage CenterThe day we visited was a typical hot and muggy Oklahoma summer day. The coolness of the Heritage Center was a welcome relief. Leah Mulkey, the museum’s Education Coordinator/Office Manager, was kind enough to give me a personal tour. The multi-sensory Chisholm Trail Experience Theatre, where visitors see, hear, feel and smell the trail-drive adventure (rain and all), added to my relief from the heat. What an illustrative and informative way to learn about life on the cattle drive trail.

Recently named as one of the top ten Western museums in America by True

West Magazine, the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center includes the Garis Gallery of the American West and interactive displays that will keep the kids interested for hours. A video game where participants test their skills at rounding up longhorn cattle, an old country store, branding stamps, life-sized talking figures all help to make this heritage center a unique (and cool) way to learn about history and life on the Chisholm and other cattle drive trails. A gift shop provides an opportunity to take some of this trail history home.

The museum is located at 1000 Chisholm

Trail Parkway. Open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1-5pm. Admission $6 for adults, $4 children age 4-17 ($17 for families of four), $5 for

seniors. Discounts are available for tour and school groups with advanced notification.

Western Spirit CelebrationThe family-friendly annual Western Spirit Celebration is the perfect time to experience the Heritage Center. The event will kick off Friday, September 18, when Buffalo Soldier re-enactors and real cowboys lead a herd of longhorn cattle onto the property, where they will remain for the event. A performance by nationally-recognized singer/songwriter Dan Roberts will be held in the Simmons Center next door. The weekend Celebration is packed with a variety of western-themed activities and fun for all ages.

Admission to the Celebration and museum is free during the weekend with the exception of the Dan Roberts performance on Friday and the chuck-wagon feed tickets. For more information about the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center or the Western Spirit Celebration, contact Leah Mulkey at 580-252-6692 or visit the Chisholm


Kids on the dock at Clear Creek Lake (courtesy of Gary Williamson)

The multi-sensory experience theatre at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

The Kiddieland Train (courtesy of Anthony Foremanx

Families can enjoy a variety of activities at the Western Spirit Celebration, an annual event that will be held on September 18-20 this year. (courtesy Duncan CVB)

Trail Heritage Center website at OnTheChisholmTrail.com.

Other Duncan Activities:Other ways to beat the heat include visiting any one of Duncan’s five lakes: Clear Creek, Duncan, Lake Fuqua, Lake Humphreys or Shady Oaks at Duncan Lake. All have camping facilities and standard lake recreation. Located next to Duncan Lake, The Big Oaks Stables rents horses by the hour. Horse trails surround the lake. For more information, contact the stables at 580-255-2613.

KiddieLand Park is operated by the local Kiwanis, providing rides for the youngest ones. Open during the summer, Thursday-Sunday 7-9pm (an hour later on Friday and Saturday), weather permitting. Fuqua Park at Beech and N Hwy 81. 580-252-8215.

The Stephens County Museum (next to KiddieLand Park) is a free museum includes county artifacts and photograph display dating back to 1892, a replica sod/log home, and antiques. Open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 1-5pm. 800-782-7167.

Dining and HotelsDuncan has delicious options for lunch an dinner.

The Merchant Eatery, Deli and Coffee House• (926 W Main). A small but inviting eatery offers unique sandwiches (served with movie theatre style popcorn, not chips), soups, salads and desserts. Open Monday-Friday 9am-3pm. 580-475-0881.

360 Bistro • (1206 N Hwy 81, Suite 51A). Don’t let the outside fool you. This restaurant is bigger and aesthetically pleasing on the inside. The menu is pleasing as well with appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, steaks and Italian specialties including pizza. Open daily 11am-9pm., Friday-Saturday until 10pm. 580-470-9393.

Eduardo’s • (1304 N Hwy 81) offers great Tex-Mex food. Open daily 11am–10pm, Friday-Saturday until 11pm. 580-255-0781.

Planning to spend the night? Call ahead for reservations at one of these locations:

Chisholm Suites Hotel• (1206 N. Hwy 81); 580-255-0551.

Hampton Inn and Suites• (2301 N. Hwy 81); 580-255-1700.

Holiday Inn• (1015 N. Hwy 81); 580-252-1500.

For more information on Duncan, DuncanOK.org or call Lois Dawn Jones, Director of the Duncan Convention and Visitor’s Bureau at 800-782-7167.

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 college in Stillwater.


R enaissance Management Group


The winning entry will receive a prize package including the items pictured above. Full description of giveaway items listed at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/FS-Giveaway.

* Winner agrees to pick up items from NW OKC.

MFM Question of the Month

How many hours of sleep do children ages 6-12 require each night?

(Hint: see page 14)To enter, visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com/

FS-Giveaway and complete the entry form. By doing so, you’ll be eligible to win a

prize package valued over $500!Deadline is Thursday, August 23.

The 13th Annual Septemberfest will be held at the Governor’s Mansion on Saturday, September 12. Hosted by Governor Brad Henry and his wife Kim, the celebration is free, featuring family-friendly activities and exhibits.

“Each year, the governor and I look forward to hosting Septemberfest and meeting people from across the state,” said First Lady Kim Henry. “This event is special because not only does Septemberfest allow us an opportunity to open Oklahoma’s Governor’s Mansion to the public, it includes a wide range of wonderful free activities for people of all ages.”

Septemberfest highlights include historical re-enactments, crafts, storytimes and a challenging corn maze.

Admission to the Oklahoma History Center, across the street from the Mansion, will be free on the day of Septemberfest. Visitors can enjoy exhibits in the Center’s five galleries along with the newest exhibit, Another Hot Oklahoma Night, an interactive exhibit exploring the rock and roll artists, radio stations, personalities, venues and fans of Oklahoma.

Septemberfest will be held from 10am-4pm at the Governor’s Mansion, 820 NE 23rd St. Contact Friends of the Mansion at 405-557-0198 to learn more about Septemberfest.

Oklahoma Septemberfest Celebration

Be Ready!Oklahomans are no strangers to natural disasters. September is the sixth annual National Preparedness Month, and this year focuses on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and helping Americans understand what it truly means to be ready.

Families are encouraged to assemble an emergency preparedness kit (including items such as food, water, first aid supplies, batteries, tools and household items) that includes three days of supplies. Communities and religious organizations are encouraged to be involved by identifying at-risk individuals and local resources for supplies and support.

The Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives has partnered with various preparedness groups and government agencies to encourage families, faith congregations and community organizations to have a plan for emergency preparedness.

September 26-27 has been designated as Be Ready Weekend for churches and religious organizations to promote awareness in the community and preparedness. For information on getting your congregation involved in the Be Ready Weekend, call 405-522-0606 or visit FaithLinksOK.org/FeaturedEvents.htm.

Free emergency preparedness information can be found by calling 1-800-BE-READY or visiting the National Preparedness Month’s website, Ready.gov.

Governor Brad Henry and First Lady Kim Henry read to kids at Septemberfest.

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Talk With Your Child About Bullying

By Kathy Sena

Bullying can lead to emotional or physical pain, and it’s something that most children will be exposed to, either directly or indirectly, at school. Bullying can be physical, verbal or social, says the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), occuring at school, on the playground, on the school bus, in the neighborhood, via phone or text message or over the Internet. The AAP offers the following advice:

When your child is bulliedHelp him learn how to respond by • teaching him how to:

Look the bully in the eye. -Stand tall and stay calm. -Walk away. -

Teach him to say in a firm voice:• “I don’t like what you’re doing.” -“Please do NOT talk to me like -that.”“Why would you say that?” -

Teach your child when, how and whom • to ask for help.Encourage your child to make friends • with other children.Support activities that interest him.• Alert school officials to the problems and • work with them on solutions.Make sure an adult who knows about the • bullying can watch out for his safety and well-being when you can’t be there.

When your child is the bullyBe sure he knows that bullying is never • acceptable.Set firm and consistent limits on his • aggressive behavior.Be a positive role mode. Show children • they can get what they want without teasing, threatening or hurting someone.Use effective, non-physical discipline, • such as loss of privileges.Develop practical solutions with the • school principal, teachers, counselors and parents of the children your child has bullied.

When your child is a bystanderTell him not to cheer on or even quietly • watch bullying.Encourage your child to tell a trusted • adult about the bullying.Help him support other children who • may be bullied and try to include these children in activities.Encourage him to join with others in • telling bullies to stop.

Back-to-School Donations NeededCitizens Caring for Children and the Jr. League of Oklahoma City are sponsoring the annual Klothes for Kids drive, which provides foster children in Oklahoma the necessities to start off a new school year—a new outfit, shoes, backpack and school supplies.

In the 2008 drive, more than 800 children were provided items for back to school, and that number is expected to grow this year. Throughout August, foster children can “shop” for their items every Tuesday and Thursday. Donations of time (for volunteer shifts), clothing, supplies and money are welcome.

The Klothes for Kids drive takes place at the Citizens Caring for Children Resource Center, 45 NE 50th. To learn more about the program, please call 405-348-9034, email [email protected] or visit CitizensCaringForChildren.org.

The HOPE Center of Edmond is collecting donations for back-to-school items, including all items found on back-to-school lists, and especially backpacks. Items may be brought to the HOPE Center (1251 N Broadway) Monday-Thursday 9:30am-5pm, Friday 9:30am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. Items will be distributed to those in need from August 3-20, and remaining items will be donated to Edmond Public Schools for distribution to students. Call 405-348-1340 for more information.

Fathers and DaughtersAccording to research by Fathers.com (the National Center for Fathering), children thrive when they have an involved father, someone who loves them, knows them, guides them and helps them to achieve their goals. This can be especially

true in the case of daughters.

The Father-Daughter Summit, coming to Oklahoma City on Saturday October 3, is for teen and young adult daughters and their fathers, to celebrate the power of the father-daughter bond. The

Summit provides an opportunity for fathers and daughters to participate in learning sessions

both together and individually, to learn about communication and tools necessary for a successful father/daughter relationship.

The Summit will be held at The Cathredal of Praise (7700 N Council, OKC), from 9:30am-5pm. Admission per father/daughter

pair is $25, which includes lunch.

According to the Fathers.com website, daughters need their fathers to provide them with guidance, encouragement, comfort,

vision and protection. Fathers can use the information they learn at the Summit and on Fathers.com to improve and inform their father/

daughter relationships.

Call 800-593-3237 for more details, or visit Fathers.com/Summit to register.

Easy to be Green

School SuppliesPolyvinyl chloride, frequently referred to in eco circles as the

“poison plastic,” is incredibly versatile and shows up in many consumer products, including a large number of products for children. Dr. Alan Greene, author of Raising Baby Greene notes that “the manufacture of PVC releases dioxin into the environment, a potent carcinogen that accumulates in animals and in us.” PVC frequently contains phthalates (chemicals used to soften plastics) that are hormone disruptors and have been linked to possible reproductive problems and birth defects. PVC also often contains lead (a vinyl stabilizer), which can cause developmental issues.

What does all this have to do with back-to-school supplies? Unfortunately, that “new” smell often associated with binders, backpacks, lunch boxes and pencil cases is the result of PVC off-gassing its toxic fumes.

Give any new product the sniff test. If it’s a soft plastic and has that beach-ball smell, it’s likely PVC. Look also for the number 3 in the recycled symbol, or “V” or “PVC.” Try to find products made from more earth-friendly materials, such as recycled and re-purposed plastics and vinyl, bamboo or hemp.

For more information on PVC, check out the Center for Health, Environment and Justice Web site at chej.org.

Leslie Garrett is the author of The Virtuous Consumer: Your Essential Shopping Guide for a Better, Kinder, Healthier World Visit her at VirtuousConsumer.com

Don’t forget—when you are done with this issue, pass it on to a friend or drop it in your recycle bin!

to

Tips for School Parent LeadersBy Lisa Carpenter

Are you leading your school’s parent teacher organization this year? If so, you need a plan to make a great first impression with the new families entering your school this year. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; some ideas to get you started:

Host a meet-and-greet, bring-your-own picnic at the playground.•

Host a “welcome coffee” the first morning of school.•

Split the phone list with other parents and welcome all the new families.•

Host a parent night—get ideas from SchoolFamilyNights.com, a national website • resource for School Parent Groups.

Connect with other moms in your area about starting school. Find moms online at • sites such as MamaSource.com.

Avoid fundraising fatigue by getting free parent leader support at PTOToday.com.•

Have your bake sale go high tech by organizing your parent volunteer contacts • online. Check out a free trial at PTOToday.com/manager.

Wash Your Hands!Do you worry that back-to-school mean sniffles, colds and illness? The Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises that the simple act of hand-washing can ward off many of the germs that cause illnesses, including the common cold. In fact, according to the CDC, “keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps we

can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.”

Remind your children before they go back to school and work to prevent spreading germs. Basic guidelines:

Wet hands with warm water and add soap, making a lather to cover all surfaces of the hands. Continue for 20 seconds—or roughly the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.

Rinse and dry hands well.

If water and soap are not available, use an alcohol-based gel as an alternative.

Apply the gel to one hand and rub hands together, covering all surfaces, until the gel

dries. Visit CDC.gov for more information about health-related safety issues.

according to the CDC, “keeping hands clean is one of thecan take to avoid getting s

others.”

Remind your childschool and work tBasic guidelines:

Wet hands withmaking a lathe hands. or roughly“Happy Bi

Rinse and

If water andan alcohol-bas

Apply the gel totogether, coverin

dries. Visit CDC.about health-related

Parenting Tips for the BusySometimes parents need advice, and parenting books can provide a great resource. For many of us, the problem is finding time to sit down to read a book. This is where FamilyIntel can help. FamilyIntel is a free website that provides condensed versions of parenting, marriage or family relationship books. The eight-page summaries provide excerpts directly from the books, allowing even the busiest of parents to find information to help them handle everyday challenges.

“Many parents are looking for answers to raising children and strengthening families in today’s society. However, they struggle to find the time to read the very books that can help them,” said FamilyIntel co-founder Kim Harris. “Hectic schedules, long work hours and children’s activities consume [parents’] days. Our solution to the problem is to provide busy families with quick, easy-to-read summaries of books from leading experts and authors.”

Visit FamilyIntel.com for more.



Problem: Are those my headphones?

Solution: The Custom Flow headphoes ($19.99) from iFrogz allow you to customize your headphones with different colors and patterns to make them unique. (iFrogz.com)

Problem: Don’t they make a lunchbox for grownups?

Solution: The Lunchsense lunch box ($35-$44) come in three sizes, stocked with containers that will keep your lunch in order. (LunchSense.com)

Problem: How can I protect the kids on the Internet?

Solution: The PG Key ($59.95) plugs into the USB port on your computer and tracks and protects your kids online—remove the key and the computer can’t be used. (PGKey.com)

Problem: Whose bottle is that?

Solution: Aqua Bling ($6.99 and up) let you tag your bottle, cup or mug with style. (MyAquaBling.com)

Problem: If only that shopping cart had a shelf!

Solution: The On Tray ($7) clips onto your shopping cart’s handle and provide a safe and clean shelf for your coupons or your child’s snacks. (OnTray2Go.com)

Problem SolversWhen we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found.


ng

Prepare Your KindergartnerDr. Mary Zurn

Regardless of whether your child has been to preschool or not, the transition to “big kid school” can cause parents and children alike some first day anxiety.

“Kindergarten is full of excitement and fun! There’s no need to be nervous,” Dr. Mary Zurn, Vice President of Early Childhood Education at Primrose Schools said. “If you prepare your new Kindergartner with a few simple adjustments to your routine, you will enjoy the milestone instead of feeling anxious and hectic.”

Establish a daily routine. • Consistently begin morning activities at the same time every day, starting at least two weeks before the first day and continuing throughout the year. When school starts, try making it a habit to pack book bags, complete homework and pick out the next day’s clothes in the evening to avoid morning mayhem.

Read, read and read some more. • Fear of the unknown can make children anxious about school, and reading about it gives children an opportunity to imagine their own experience and express their fears. Some age-appropriate titles to try:

When Mommy and Daddy Go to Work - by Joanna ColeFirst Day - by Joan RankinThe Babysitter Sings - by Phillis GershatorDon’t Go - by Jane Breskin Zalben

Tour the school together.• Visit the classroom, meet the teacher and tour the playground so the places and faces they will see on the first day feel familiar and safe. Afterwards, talk about what both of you saw and how fun the different activities looked. Refer to the teacher by name to help your child think of her as a person you know and trust. Reinforce the idea of school as a safe place to learn and play.

Shop for school supplies. • Children love shopping for school supplies. Give your child the opportunity to choose some items to provide a sense of ownership and responsibility in the decision-making process.

Establish a partnership with your child’s teacher. • Children look for emotional cues from Mom and Dad’s behavior. The more comfortable you are with your child’s teacher, the more comfortable your child will be. Discuss with your child’s teacher how your child is adjusting over the first few weeks of school. The more visible you can make the connection between home and school, the more secure your child will feel.

“Starting kindergarten should be an exciting time for families, not a source of anxiety,” says Dr. Zurn. “If you feel confident and prepared for the transition, your child is likely to feel the same.”

For more tips and ideas from Dr. Mary Zurn, visit DrZandMe.com.

Soles 4 SoulsSave money and help others when you participate in the Soles 4 Souls program at Finish Line shoe stores. Through September 7, Finish Line stores are accepting donations of new or gently-used shoes for donation to those in need in return for a $5 discount on a new pair of shoes.

“The Finish Line is proud to continue our support of Soles4Souls through Sole Destination—our exclusive shoe donation program,” said Derrick Walker, Finish Line Vice President of Marketing. “Thanks to the generosity of our customers, Finish Line was able to collect nearly 85,000 pairs of shoes last year. We hope to exceed that amount this year and make an impact in the lives of those in our community.”

Find a participating location near you by visiting FinishLine.com/SoleDestinations4s.

ou am

ed air of

our support of —our exclusiveWalker, Finish Line

s to the generosity of our llect nearly 85,000 pairs of shoes



Your Healthy FamilyGet Back to Sleep for Back to School

In my household, and I suspect many others, one of the biggest challenges when the kids go back to

school in the fall is getting them back on a learning-friendly sleep schedule. With summer social engagements and daylight lasting until 9pm, we tend to ease up dramatically on bedtimes. On the other hand, our kids sleep in later because they don’t have to get up for school… but what about when summer

winds down and August rolls around? How much sleep do children need, anyway? To what extent do sleep habits affect learning?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, children should be spending approximately 40 percent of their childhood asleep. As children age, they tend to need less sleep, but good sleep habits remains vital to learning throughout high school and beyond. As I learned in my research, it’s also important to be aware of different triggers that might interfere with a good night’s sleep.

Restorative EffectsSleep can be broadly classified into two main cycles: REM and NREM. REM (rapid-eye-movement) sleep is also known as “active” sleep. During REM sleep, our breathing and heart rates become irregular and our eyes move rapidly back and forth beneath our eyelids, the brain becomes active and dreaming occurs. As children age, they spend less time in this stage. As newborns, REM sleep accounts for approximately half of their sleep time, but by late childhood and early adolescence, about 20 percent of sleep

time is spent in REM sleep, which is typical of adults as well.

NREM (non-rapid-eye-movement) sleep consists of several stages of sleep, and is often referred to as “quiet” sleep. During these stages of sleep, blood supply to the muscles is increased, energy is restored, tissue growth and repair takes place, and hormones are released for growth and development.

Sleep RequirementsSleep requirements decrease with age, and guidelines are available from the National Sleep Foundation and The American Academy of Pediatrics. Infants typically require anywhere from 14 to 18 hours of sleep per day, but consider the dramatic growth and learning that goes on during the first year of life! By the time they reach preschool, most children require 11 to 13 hours of sleep, and many still need a short nap in the middle of the day. Children ages six to 12 typically require 10 to 11 hours of sleep per night. While physical growth begins to slow somewhat, these kids have to contend with all-day school programs and extracurricular activities. Older children and adolescents, ages 12 to 18 need about nine hours of sleep each day.

Sleep DeprivationSo what happens when our kids don’t get enough quality sleep? Scientists know that sleep-deprived children have shorter attention spans, impaired memory and longer reaction time. Poor sleep habits also can have a major effect on temperament, particularly in younger children. Poor sleep is associated with behavior problems such as aggression, defiance and hyperactivity. Not surprisingly, academic performance is also closely correlated with sleep habits. According to studies, as little as 30 minutes of lost sleep time can affect school performance the following day.

Establishing Good HabitsEducating children on the importance of sleep can go a long way. Our pediatrician summed it up to them once in simple terms: think of sleep as

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recharging the battery of the mind and body. I’ve clung to this little mantra many a night with my younger daughter. Establishing good sleep habits in a child who has never had a consistent sleep schedule can be tough. Ideally, sleep habits should be taught in infancy, with regular bedtimes and consistent routines.

If you’ve already missed that boat, don’t despair, but don’t delay, either! The longer you wait, the harder it becomes. Tips for improving sleep habits in school-aged children include:

Educate children about sleep’s • function.

Designate a bedtime—and stick to it.•

Initiate a “winding-down time” 30 • minutes to an hour before bedtime.

Make your child’s bedroom conducive • to sleep—dark, cool, quiet and TV-free.

Eliminate caffeine products from • children’s diets.

Identify medications that may be • interfering with sleep and talk to your child’s doctor.

In our household, the party’s over on August 1. We eschew late-evening activities and return to our school-year bedtimes, a proclamation that is unfailingly met with groans of protest. This gives all of us time to get back in the groove, and it usually takes more time than you think it would. This year, take a look at your child’s sleep habits as back-to-school approaches. You may be surprised to find that he or she is falling short. Sweet dreams!

Shannon Fields is a freelance writer and a Certifi ed Pharmacy Technician at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions.

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Is enrolling my child in • extracurricular activities in addition to school a good thing?

How many activities are • considered too many?

What do I do if my child • doesn’t like the activity even though I know it is good for her?

How do I choose the best • activity for my child when there are so many different activities available?

The answer to these questions always begins with “it depends.” It depends on your child’s temperament, any special needs, available time and financial resources and a whole host of other factors unique to your child. Before choosing an activity, consider the following Commitment, Quantity and Quality (CQQ) questions:

Commitment QuestionsWhat do I want him to learn and why?•

Is he asking for more of one specific activity?•

Is this a “just for fun” activity?•

Am I willing to provide incentives for lessons I want him to • learn but he isn’t much interested in (e.g. piano)?

Quantity QuestionsDoes he have enough energy at the end of the day for • another activity?

Is he getting enough quality sleep at night?•

How much am I willing to pay for an activity, and for how • long?

How much time do we have for extracurricular activities?•

How will he get to, and be picked up from, these activities?•

Quality QuestionsAre the instructors qualified?•

Is the environment conducive to learning (i.e. clean and • organized)?

Does the activity center have a good neighborhood • reputation?

Do I feel comfortable leaving my child with this • professional?

Choosing activitiesOnce you have honestly answered the CQQ questions, it should be easier to help your child choose an activity. To show you how to go from questions to answers, here are a few examples of how this is done:

Q: Sara asks, “Should I enroll my son Michael (age five) in more gymnastic classes?”

CQQ Review: Michael is showing advanced skill in gymnastics and continues to gravitate to doing more and more tumbling around the house. He has already taken beginning level gymnastics, gets his full nine hours of sleep a night, and has no other activities other than school and Hebrew class once a week. There is a new gym with reasonably priced gymnastic classes taught by gymnasts who competed at the collegiate level.

A: Yes, he sounds ready for more gymnastics.

Q: Brian asks, “My daughter Kelly (age 15) is asking to learn the guitar, should I enroll her in guitar lessons?”


CQQ Review: Kelly takes and enjoys piano lessons at her home, is on the basketball team at school during the winter, and travels between mom and dad’s home each weekend. She does not appear to be reaching her full potential at school and often stays up late. There is a great school nearby that teaches guitar in group classes for teenagers.

A: No, this is not a good time, but ask Kelly if she would be willing to switch guitar for piano lessons for a period of time to try the guitar out. I also suggest using guitar lessons as an incentive to help Kelly focus on improving her schoolwork prior to signing her up for lessons.

Q: Jennifer asks, “My son Brandon (age seven) has Asperger Syndrome and has trouble making friends and being a part of group activities, should I continue to push to get him into extra group classes?”

CQQ Review: Brandon excels at schoolwork but doesn’t know how to include himself in projects or games with his peers. Social skill advancement is needed and unlikely to develop on its own without some assistance. Brandon does struggle at first with new tasks but once he knows the routine he likes to follow the rules.

A: Yes, Brandon needs as much structure as possible to help him advance socially. I strongly suggest that Brandon learn a martial art as martial arts training is an individual skill-building activity learned in a social setting. This activity inherently also improves motor coordination and self-esteem, and staff are usually responsive to working with children with special needs. Also, some programs may offer financial assistance if families cannot afford their full fees.

Additional considerationsEnsure at least one day off per week without a scheduled • activity. Time spent with parents or unscheduled downtime is necessary.

Never take away an activity as punishment. • Remember that you enrolled your son for other reasons, such as skill building, a break from schoolwork or making friends. If needed, take away a true “extra” instead—television time, video games or sweets.

Get to know the instructor. • Parents should always introduce themselves to the instructor and be sure to explain any special needs a child may have. Remember, instructors want to do good job and will only be able to do their best job if they have all the necessary information about your child in mind.

Using these Commitment, Quantity and Quality considerations along with what you know about your child should help you to make the best decision for your child and family.

Dr. Julia M. Rahn is a clinical psychologist, speaker, coach, and founder of Flourish Studios—a multi-faceted learning gallery in Chicago. Focusing on Positive living, Education, Arts, and Retail (PEARs) Julia has designed a center that helps families and individuals live their best lives. Learn more at 773-281-8130 or ICanFlourish.com.

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SPORTSArctic Edge405-748-5454

ATA Karate and Life Skills Training Center405-330-2821; 405-751-2821; 703-2727

Ball Golf Center405-842-2626

Bart Conner Gymnastics405-447-7500

Boomtown Ballyards405-749-8696

Cheer Unlimited405-732-2464

Cheers & More405-341-2390

Chesapeake Boathouse725 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC405-552-4040, ChesapeakeBoathouse.org

Sprint kayaking program for ages 8 and up; Chesapeake Junior Crew rowing for ages 12 and up. No previous experience necessary.

Cheatwood’s Family Martial Arts405-794-5269

Combat Martial Arts Academy405-601-6613

Cross Creek Stables405-340-3432

Dynamo Gymnastics405-728-0500

Edmond All-Sports, Inc405-340-5300

Edmond Lacrosse405-359-4630

Edmond Soccer Club405-348-2255

Junior Jazzercise405-359-8088

Kickingbird Golf Center405-341-5350

Kickingbird Tennis Center405-348-3120

Lighthouse Fitness Center405-755-1975

Metro Gymnastics405-848-5308

Norman Martial Arts405-447-5425

Norman Optimist Club405-366-1177

Northwest Optimist Soccer405-495-5860

OKC Kayak405-830-9689

Oklahoma Gold Gymnastics405-341-1175

Performance Sports Company405-749-1515

Piedmont Sports Association405-373-4817

Poos Taekwondo405-340-5212

Premier Martial Arts14416 N Lincoln Blvd, Edmond405-749-5949; EdmondKarate.com

Specializing in martial arts programs that help develop confidence, discipline, and focus, particularly with kids having ADD and ADHD. Classes for ages 3 and up are ongoing throughout the year. Programs start at $69.

Redlands Fencing Center405-947-0535

River Park Soccer Club405-720-2662

Rocktown Climbing Gym405-319-1400

Santa Fe Family Life Center6300 N Santa Fe, OKC405-840-1817, sfflc.com

Basketball, volleyball, swimming, tennis, speed and agility, fitness memberships, tennis membership, group personal training and group classes. Club membership $45-$150.


Sonlight Martial Arts405-341-6727

Sooner Swim Club405-579-2187

Sports City UniversityLightHouse Sports Center, 3333 W Hefner Rd, OKC405-816-HOOP, SCUBasketball.com

Year-round basketball training program for boys and girls ages 4-18, offering fundamental skills training, team and athletic development. Program fees, $75-$300.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church Upward Basketball & Cheer405-692-4242

Star Gymnastics757 Enterprise Dr, Edmond; 3251 Market Pl, Norman 405-340-7827, Edmond; 405-329-7827, Norman; StarGymnastics.com

Recreational and competitive gymnastics instruction for ages 2 and up. Owned and operated by USA Olympic coach Steve Nunno.

The Little Gym of South Oklahoma City405-691-5383

Thunderbird Riding Stables405-321-5768

Transformation Fitness Center405-752-1233

Victory Cheer405-616-2433

Victory Gymnastics405-632-0800

Washington Blackbelt Academy405-340-1177

YMCA of Greater OKC500 N Broadway, OKC405-297-7777, YMCAOKC.org

Wide array of programs and activities for all ages offered at 10 area locations. Schedule and fees vary.

ARTSA.R.T.S. Arts Revealing the Son405-550-9636

ArtzPlace Oklahoma1730 Center Dr, Midwest City405-732-4ART, ArtzPlaceOK.com

Classes in visual and performing arts for all ages offered at a new state-of-the-art 7,600 square foot facility. Fall session begins 8/17. Fees vary by activity (private music lessons $60 per month; group arts lessons $9 per hour), scholarships offered for qualifying individuals.

The Dance Center of Oklahoma City Ballet405-843-9898

The Dancenter Studio of Performing Arts405-670-6725

Dance Phase405-478-3464

Edmond Parks & Recreation2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond405-359-4630, EdmondOKParks.com

After school arts and crafts, pottery, geocaching, martial arts, archery and sewing for ages two and up. Fall registration begins 8/5. Youth program fees $5-$50.

Family Theatre Warehouse405-848-7469

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond27 E Edwards, Edmond405-340-4481, EdmondFineArts.com

Non-profit community arts organization offering educational enrichment for children ages 3 and up in visual and performing arts. Tuition ranges $13-$200 per session.

Ginger’s Kindermusik of OKC6008 NW 120th Ct, OKC405-722-2379, GingersKindermusik.com

Early, age-appropriate musical experiences for children up to age 7 to provide positive impacts on

learning, language and literacy skills, social and emotional development and math and pattern-recognition skills. Free demo day 8/11 (RSVP); Fall session begins 8/24. $135-$165 per month plus materials.

Gravity Performing Arts Center405-702-3978

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Guitar for Kids School of Rock27 E Edwards, Edmond405-340-8294, GuitarForCoolKids.com

Complete guitar program for ages 6 and up. Participants learn to: play in a rock band using authentic equipment, play acoustic guitar, read music and understand music theory by working with instructors with degrees in music and music education. Enrollment year-round. $35 fee for books, $80 per month.

Gymboree Play & Music11928 N May, OKC405-755-3445

Age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. Ages birth-5; year-round activities.

Hill Irish Dance SchoolCity Arts Center, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC405-524-7322, HillIrishDance.com

Certified instruction in traditional and modern Irish step dancing, recreational and competitive program for ages 5 and up. Fall classes start August 18. Tuition $30-$60 per month.

Jenkins Music405-737-7607

Joel Price Guitar Instructor405-315-7866

J. Rogers Performing Arts Studio405-752-9910

Kindermusik with Bonnie405-265-0900

Lyric Theatre and Thelma Gaylord Academy1727 NW 16th, OKC405-524-9310, LyricTheatreOKC.com

Fall classes in dance, voice, acting and musical theatre begin 8/24 for ages 7-18. Open house 8/14, 6-8pm at Thelma Gaylord Academy (1801 NW 16th). $150-$400 per session.

Mark Gentle’s Guitar Studio405-701-0035

McTeggart Irish Dancing405-969-2100

The Music School Of Anna Gentle405-701-0035

Norman Firehouse Art Center405-329-4523

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre2501 N Blackwelder, OKC405-606-7003, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org

Preschool Creative Drama (ages 3-4, $80) highlights basics of creative drama and movement. Theatre I (ages 5-7, $80) and II (ages 8-12, $80) expands on basics. Home School Play Production (ages 7 and up, $140).

OCU Performing Arts Academy2501 N Blackwelder, OKC

ACANow Enrolling!

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691-8012 • www.antiochokc.org

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For further information about any Rainbow Fleet program please call (405) 521-1426

405-208-5410, okcu.edu/music/academyMusic instruction for all ages includes piano, voice, guitar, strings and brass. Early childhood lessons in Kindermusik and Suzuki guitar or violin. New programs include Academy Youth Music Theater and Voice Class for Tweens. Private lessons offered year-round; fall semester begins 8/31, registration 8/3. Private lessons $21/30 min; $30/45 min; $40/1 hour. Class costs vary.

Oklahoma Academy of Irish Dance405-420-1064

Oklahoma City Museum of Art415 Couch Drive, OKC405-236-3100, okcmoa.com

Offers a variety of visual art classes, workshops, and camps for children of all ages; year-round classes require pre-registration. Class fees $7 and up.

Palette Art Camp405-691-6366

Piano Lessons: An Invitation to LearnNW OKC area405-728-2872, PianoSavvy.com

Private piano and theory lessons for students in grades 2 and up. $80 per month (4 half-hour sessions).

Porch School and Art Supply405-524-3309

Pulse Dance Studio405-787-7107

The Riding Stables405-794-8850

School of Ballet Oklahoma405-843-9898

Showtime Dance Studio405-321-7469

The Sooner Theatre101 E Main, Norman405-321-9000, SoonerTheatre.org

Offers performing arts training in a nurturing, inspiring and professional environment for children in grades Kindergarten-12. Highly-trained instructors with real-world professional performing experience and a passion for teaching. Musical theatre, acting, improve and various theatre dance classes offered; tuition varies, need-based scholarships available.

Southern Hills Baptist Church School of Fine Arts405-682-1636

Southern Nazarene University School of Music405-491-6345

Studio J School of Dance405-348-3377

Top Hat Talent Performing Arts Studio405-692-2640

University of Central Oklahoma


100 North University Drive, Box 1045, Edmond405-216-2588, ocae.net/ccms

Private music lessons taught by UCO students and professors. 1/2 to 1 hour lessons available. Semester dates: Sept 8-Dec 12, 2009; also offers spring semester. All ages. Call for details about times and prices.

Velocity Dance Center11122 N Rockwell Ave, OKC405-721-8807, VelocityDanceCenterOKC.com

Classes for children of all ages in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, pom and children’s dance. Creative ballet offered for children as young as 2 ½. Fall session begins 8/31. Tuition, $32 and up per month.

Victory School of the Arts4300 N MacArthur Blvd, OKC405-717-1250, victorydance.tv

Dance classes include ballet, lyrical, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, worship dance and more, for beginners to advanced students. Recreational and award-winning competitive programs for ages 3 and up. Enrollment Day for new students is 8/22/09, 11am-1pm. After that date, call the office. Tuition $47 for one class a week; $57 for two classes a week; includes costume fees and recital fees.

ENRICHMENT4-H Clubs405-713-1125

ACI Learning Center600 18th St, OKC405-513-8000, Autism-Concetps.com

Evidence-based social skills groups for children on the autism spectrun and typical peers aged 4-9. Children learn the necessary skills to improve their social world, including topics such as greetings, emotions, friendships, perspective-taking, self-expression, and problem solving skills. $35 per session.

Camp Fire USA Heart of OK Council3309 East Hefner Rd, OKC405-478-5646, CampFireUSA-ok.org

Youth development organization meets regularly in small groups of boys and girls to work on age-appropriate projects, have fun, and develop self-confidence. Grades Pre K through high school; year-round activities and Camp DaKaNi in the summer; membership $12.50 per person or $35 for family.

Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services3200 East Memorial, Suite 600, Edmond

405-478-3515, ClubZTutoring.comCore subject (reading, mathematics, science, history) tutoring, study skills, foreign languages, standardized test prep, assessment testing on ACT, SAT, GMAT, GRE, and MCAT. Grades Pre-K through college.

Edmond Learning Academy405-348-8867

Francis Tuttle405-717-7799

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum1400 Classen Dr, OKC405-235-4458, OklahomaHeritage.com

The Teen Advisory Board Program is available for children in grades 9-12. Applications must be accompanied by a letter of recommendation from an adult, submitted by 8/25.

Girl Scouts-Western Oklahoma Inc.121 NE 50th, OKC405-528-3535, GSWestOK.org

Committed to building girls of courage, confidence, and character. Activities for girls include High Adventure Team, individual programs, and activities. Ages 5-17; membership year begins October 1; $10 yearly membership plus additional activity fees.

HURST Reading Center 405-752-5522

Kumon245 S Santa Fe Ave, Edmond; 405-216-98001320 N Interstate Dr, Norman; 405-364-1600;775 W Covell Rd, Suite 150, Edmond; 405-715-1111Kumon.comMath programs from counting to calculus, reading programs from beginning sounds to college-level. Individualized academic plans for each participant in 30 minute class sessions held twice a week. Ongoing sessions for ages 3 and up; prices vary.

Last Frontier Council, Boy Scouts of America405-840-1114

Mad Science of Central Oklahoma344 South Santa Fe, Edmond

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405-285-9643, MadScience.org/CentralOklahomaScience-themed programs developed by professional educators for grades PreK-middle school.

Reading Experts405-285-2135

Reading Matters405-285-1502

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History2401 Chautauqua, Norman405-325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu

Drop-in and scheduled programs for elementary age children and up; new programming each spring and fall; $10-$80 per session.

Sensational Kids, Inc430 W Wilshire Blvd Suite 10, OKC405-840-1686, SensationalKidsOKC.com

Occupational and speech therapists assist children on functional skills in both private and group settings, social skills groups to help peer interaction. Ages 2-18; one-hour private sessions and twice-monthly group sessions held year-round; One hour session $120 (insurance reimbursement possible).

Sylvan Learning Center888-839-2048

Top Group Tutoring405-747-7960

Visual Skills Specialists405-216-0707

Young Chefs Academy405-285-5939

Remember, when you call, be sure to tell them that you read about it in

your favorite local parenting resource: MetroFamily Magazine!


Let’s Eat: RecipesBack-to-School Lunches—Beyond PB&J

It won’t be long before the same scene is played in school lunchrooms everywhere. Kids tentatively open

their lunch boxes and bags, peek inside and either breathe a sigh of relief or immediately begin negotiations to trade for something better. Here are some tasty lunch ideas to pack in your kids’ brown bag that they’ll want to eat rather than trade. In fact, enlisting their help in preparing lunches will increase the odds that they’ll actually enjoy them—just don’t tell them their lunch is healthy!

Hawaiian BagelwichDefinitely not your typical brown-bag fare—this sandwich is just the right combination of sweet and savory. Pair it with a banana and a handful of macadamia nuts to complete a tropical themed lunch.

Equipment:Small mixing bowlSpoonButter knife

Ingredients:3 T low fat cream cheese (plain, onion or herb variety), softened2 T crushed pineapple2 ounces diced low fat ham1 bagel (plain, onion or other savory variety), split

Directions:Mix together cream cheese, pineapple • and ham in a small mixing bowl.

Spread cheese mixture onto cut side • of bagel half; top with remaining half, cut side down.

Wrap in cellophane and pack in an • insulated lunchbox with an ice pack.

Turkey Salad WrapWraps are a terrific change from the typical sandwich. The sweet grapes and crunchy almonds provide a nice variety in texture and flavor. This recipe makes one wrap.

Equipment:Quart size zip top bagSmall lidded plastic containerButter knife

Ingredients:¼ C diced cooked lean turkey (or chicken)1 ½ C chopped romaine lettuce¼ C red grapes, halved2 T shredded carrot2 T dried cranberries1 T chopped almonds2 T light salad dressing (Ranch or Italian work well)1 whole wheat tortilla

Toss the turkey, lettuce, grapes, • carrots, cranberries and almonds in a zip top bag. Place dressing in a

small lidded container. Place tortilla in a large zip top bag or wrap in cellophane.

Pack it all in an insulated lunchbox • with an ice pack. At school, kids can pour the dressing over the tossed salad; zip and toss. Pour dressed salad onto the center of the tortilla; fold into a wrap and enjoy!

Almond Butter Taquito with Apricot PreservesAlmond butter is a great source of protein and a pleasant change of pace from the old standbys. You should be able to find almond butter at your grocery store, near the peanut butter. This recipe makes one taquito.

Equipment:Butter knife

Ingredients:3 T almond butter1 whole wheat tortilla 2 T apricot preserves

Directions:Spread almond butter evenly on one • half of tortilla to within an inch of the tortilla edge. Spread apricot preserves over the other half of the tortilla, also to within an inch of the edge.

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getting set for a successful school year.THERE’S A BETTER WAY BACK TO SCHOOL WITH KUMON.

With Kumon Math and Reading your child will sharpen his study habitsand build the skills and confidence to achieve more on his own.

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KUMON MATH & READING CENTERS OFEDMOND EDMOND NORTH NORMAN405-216-9800 405-715-1111 405-364-1600245 S. Santa Fe Ave. 775 W. Covell Rd., #150 1320 N. Interstate Dr.Edmond, OK 73003 Edmond, OK 73003 Norman, OK 73072

Enrolling in AugustClasses begin in September

Musical TheatreActingImprovTheatre DancePrivate Voiceand more

Taught by trained, experiencedand kid-friendly instructors!

Show Troupe auditions for studentswho will be in 6th, 7th or 8th gradethis fall will take place in August.

Call or visit us online for details

The Sooner TheatreDowntown Norman(405) 321-9600www.soonertheatre.org

The Studio of The Sooner Theatre

Your child may be eligible to take part in a research study.

• ADHD is a condition in which a child is easily distracted. • It is hard for the child to pay attention or wait for his or her turn. • It is tough for the child to sit without fidgeting and squirming, or jumping up to do something else. • Children with ADHD act first and think later. • Children with reading disabilities (dyslexia) have persistent problems with reading.

If this sounds like your child, take this opportunity to learn more about your child’s behavior and this study. A pharmaceutical

company is studying an investigational medication that may help girls and boys who experience these symptoms.

If your boy or girl is between the ages of 10 and 16 and has ADHD and/or a reading disability contact:

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION

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Child Study CenterAt 405-271-5700 EXT. #45167Email [email protected] or [email protected]


Roll tortilla into a tube shape and wrap in cellophane.•

Fun Lunchbox IdeasNourish their minds and hearts as well as their bodies with a little bit of home tucked into their lunchbox:

Little comedians love a good laugh. Cut a favorite comic • strip or write a silly knock-knock joke on note and slip it in their brown bag.

On rainy days that prevent outside recess, clip a quick • suduko, crossword or word search puzzle and place along with a pencil into their lunchbox to help pass the time cooped up inside.

A handwritten note from mom or dad can be a terrific bit • of encouragement on a tough day at school.

Besides her two favorite jobs of wife and mom, Michelle Ann Anderson is also a freelance writer, enjoys public speaking, writing cookbooks and sharing her love of food with those around her. Her blog can be found by visiting MichelleAnnAnderson.com.

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Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for Great Kids

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

Picture book for Preschool and UpAlways

by Ann Stott, illustrated by Matt Phelan(Candlewick Press, hardcover, $15.99)

Inspired by an interaction between the author and her own son, this book reminds children and adults alike that the best kind of love is unconditional.

Nonfiction for grades Kindergarten-3Bea Rocks the Flock

by Victoria Jamieson(Bloomsbury Children, hardcover, $16.99)

Flock life is hard when you’re not happy being an ordinary sheep. So Bea sets out to chart her own course and brings the lessons she learns back to her flock. The story reminds us to be ourselves and appreciate the differences in others.

Nonfiction for grades 1-4Spanish with Abby and Zak Chinese with Lulu and Maomoa

by Tracy Traynor and Maria Perez; Licheng Gu, Laura Hambleton; both illustrated by Laura Hambleton (Milet Publishing, softcover with CD, $16.95 each)

Make learning a foriegn language fun with these books, featuring a bilingual discussion between friends using English and Spanish or Chinese. Readers will enjoy the story while learning something in the process.

Fiction for grades 4 and upThe Mythology Handbook

by Lady Hestia Evans(Candlewick Press, hardcover, $12.99)

A must-read for children with a burning interest in the myths of ancient Greece. Special features include maps, stickers, and fact files on heroic beasts and heroes.

Photography Sponsor:

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Here’s Your Chance!444The search is on to find fresh faces and smiles to light up MetroFamily’s covers in 2010!

Categories include:Ages 0-18 months19 mos-3 years4-7 years8-11 years12-18 yearsSpecial Needs (All Ages 0-18)

Ten semi-finalists will be selected for each category. The six category winners will be selected by MetroFamily readers through an online voting process. Each winner will be professionally photographed and featured on one of our covers in 2010!

Enter soon! First 300 entrants will receive a “thank you” mailing of coupons and discounts to local businesses, including a ticket to a RedHawks game, admission to local attractions, and more! Plus, have your child’s photo taken by our official Cover Kids photographer, Brock’s Photography, and you’ll receive up to $100 in print credit.

NOTE: This is the only way to be able to submit a professionally-taken photo into the contest. Credit not to be combined with other offers.

ONLY ONE CHILD PER ENTRYEither send this form by mail or go online to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/cover-kids

Name of Child _______________________________________________

Date of birth (mm/dd/yy) ____________________________ Age ________

Category (Circle One) 0-18mos 19mos-3yrs 4-7yrs 8-11yrs

12-18yrs. Special Needs (all ages)

Address ___________________________________________________

City __________________________ State _______Zip _____________

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Signature: _________________________________________________My signatures indicates that I give permission for my child’s photo to be used by MetroFamily without restriction. The

entry fee is non-refundable and all photos will become property of MetroFamily. Photos will not be returned. It is

further understood that my child’s photo may be placed on MetroFamilyMagazine.com but will be identified only by a

first name, age and city.

$25 per entry. Make check payable to MetroFamily or pay here by credit card.

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Mail completed form, photo and $25 fee for each entry to:

Cover Kids Search, MetroFamily, 306 S Bryant, Suite C152, Edmond, OK 73034

Photos submitted should only show the

child being nominated (group photos are not allowed);

should have been taken within the last two months; and

should be candid snapshots, not professionally-taken photos (unless taken by

Brock’s Photography, see below for details).

Deadline is October 15, 2009.

Two ways to enter:PREFERRED:1. Go online to MetroFamilyMagazine.com/cover-kids, complete the form,

upload your child’s digital photo and pay using a credit/debit card. Photo must be print quality.

Send the completed form and a 4X6 or 5X7 snapshot with $25 check or credit card info 2.

submitted on form below. (Find details and address on form below.)

A portion of the proceeds from this contest will be donated to the Special Olympics Special Smiles Program

Questions? Please email [email protected] or call 405.340.1404.


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“Where did the summer go?” Are you hearing that in your house, too? Yes, it’s time to think about getting the kids ready to head back to school. Are your child’s immunizations up to date? Does he need new glasses? What time should she go to bed? Should he bring a cell phone to school for safety? We’ve rounded up expert advice on all this and more. Read on and you’ll be ready for the big day!

Books, Backpacks and Bedtimes,

Oh My!It’s That Time Again… Start The School Year Off Right With Our

Back-to-School Health Checklist


Schedule a well-child checkup. Oklahoma doesn’t require well-child checkups for school enrollment, but an examination is often required for participation in a school sport. Of course, you’ll want to check with your child’s doctor regarding how often to schedule additional regular well-child check-ups.

Verify immunizations. • Ask your doctor for a copy of your child’s immunization record. You may need this to prove his immunization status for school. Visit the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Childhood Immunization Support Program website at cispimmunize.org for lots of helpful information, including:

The AAP’s 2009 Childhood Immunization Schedule -(for infants through teens) and a catch-up schedule for children who may have missed a scheduled vaccination.Information on vaccine safety. -Information for parents and caregivers about the H1N1 -(swine) flu, including vaccine updates.Information on vaccines that are temporarily in short -supply.Frequently asked questions about childhood -immunizations.

Have your child’s vision checked. • Basic vision screening should be performed by your child’s doctor at each well-child examination. If a child fails a vision screening—or if there is any concern about a vision problem—the child should be referred for a comprehensive professional eye examination, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).

Further, the American Optometric Association recommends a complete eye exam prior to starting school, even if no vision problems have been obvious.

Schedule a dental check-up.• Students in the U.S. miss more than 51 million school hours per year because of dental problems or related conditions, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Teach your child to floss once a day and brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Beware of frequent snacking, as repeated exposure to sugary or starchy snacks can increase the risk for cavities. And visit your child’s dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and check-up.

Get set for sports. • For children who wear glasses, the AAO recommends one-piece wrap-around polycarbonate sports frames for all contact sports, including soccer, field hockey and basketball. All children wearing glasses need sports frames for gym class. Also, mouth guards are recommended for kids in sports and may be found at most sporting goods stores.

Have your child’s hearing tested. • Most states now mandate hearing tests for infants. But many school-age children have not been tested. If your child is listening to the television or music at a very loud volume, or tends to favor one ear over the other when listening to you speak, it may be a sign of hearing loss. Talk with your doctor about having your child’s hearing tested.

Discuss medications. • Does your child receive

medication on a regular basis for diabetes, asthma or another chronic health problem? School nurses and teachers must be made aware of your child’s needs, especially if they are the ones who will administer the medicine. Speak with them about the prescribed medication schedule and procedures, and work out an emergency course of action in case of a problem.

Schedule testing if you suspect a learning disability or • dyslexia. If you feel that your child may not be processing information as she should, speak with her teacher and her doctor as soon as possible. Your child’s doctor can provide a referral for testing.

Plan ahead for brain-power breakfasts. • Studies show that children who eat breakfast are more alert in class. Try to include protein (peanut butter or low-fat cheese, milk or yogurt are good choices), fruit and whole grains.

Talk with your child about healthy eating at school. • Most schools regularly send home cafeteria menus. With this information, you can determine when to pack or purchase lunches. Talk with your child’s school, suggests the AAP. Encourage the school to stock healthy lunch choices such as fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products, water and 100-percent


fruit juice in school vending machines. Each 12-ounce soft drink contains approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar and 150 calories. Daily habits count: Drinking just one can of soda a day increases a child’s risk of obesity by 60 percent, says the AAP. Restrict your child’s soft-drink consumption to special occasions. Don’t let it become a daily habit.

Update emergency phone numbers. • Are your current emergency phone numbers on file at school? Make sure the school and your child know how to reach you or another caregiver at all times.

If your child has a cell phone, talk with him about when • and where it can be used safely. Chatting on a cell phone while walking to school isn’t a great idea. A recent study by the University of Alabama at Birmingham showed that when children ages 10 and 11 talked on cellphones, they were less attentive to traffic. When distracted, the kids were less attentive and permitted less time between themselves and the next oncoming vehicle and they were involved in more collisions and near misses. (Fortunately, the testing was done in a simulated environment!)

Choose the right backpack—and use it safely. • Look for wide, padded shoulder straps. Narrow straps can dig into shoulders, causing pain and restricting circulation. A padded back increases comfort. The backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student’s body weight. Remind your child to always use both shoulder straps, slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles and may increase the chances of developing curvature of the spine. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments to distribute weight more evenly. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. Even better: use a rolling backpack. Visit aap.org/publiced/BR_Backpack.htm for more backpack-safety tips.

Review school bus safety rules. • Designate a safe place for your child to wait for the bus, away from traffic and the street. Review these safety rules, from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with your child:

When getting on the bus, wait for the driver’s signal. -Board the bus one at a time.When getting off the bus, look before stepping out to be -sure that no cars are passing on the right. (It’s illegal, but it happens.) Move away from the bus.Before crossing the street, take five “giant steps” out -from the front of the bus, or until the driver’s face can be seen. Wait for the driver to signal that it’s safe to cross. Look left-right-left when coming to the edge of the bus -to make sure traffic is stopped. Keep watching traffic when crossing.Ask the driver for help if you drop something near the -bus. If you bend down to pick up something, the driver cannot see you and you may be hit by the bus. Use a backpack or book bag to keep loose items together.

Create a healthy sleep schedule. • Children ages five to 12 need 10 to 11 hours of sleep nightly, and teens need about nine hours, according to the National Sleep Foundation. That can be a tough prescription to follow, with the increasing demands on kids’ time from homework, sports and other extracurricular activities this time of year. As they get older, school-aged children become more interested in TV, video games and the Internet (as well as caffeinated beverages). This can lead to difficulty falling asleep and sleep disruptions. Poor sleep can lead to mood swings, behavioral problems and cognitive problems that affect a child’s ability to learn in school. To help your child get a good night’s sleep, teach healthy sleep habits, emphasize the need for a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine, create a good environment for sleep (dark, cool and quiet) and keep TV and computers out of the bedroom. For more information, visit SleepFoundation.org and click on “Sleep for All Ages” for tips specifically for children and teens.

Kathy Sena is a freelance journalist who frequently covers children’s-health issues. Visit her blog at ParentTalkToday.com.

Sources: New York Presbyterian Hospital, American Academy of Pediatrics, Texas Children’s Hospital, Mayo Clinic, National Sleep Foundation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Optometric Association, Delta Dental.

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Family FinancesSaving Money in Today’s Economy

Vacations. The summer heat. Back to school shopping. It’s summertime and most families

are faced with increased costs that can put a strain on their budgets. While it is tempting to spend your savings or increase credit card usage to maintain your lifestyle, using savings or borrowing for every day purchases can have serious long-term impact on your family’s financial well-being.

Before resorting to using either your savings or credit cards, consider some of the following tips to save money on everyday necessities and back to school purchases to minimize the impact on your family’s finances:

Inventory your attitude. Sit down with your family and reconsider what is really important. You may be able to eliminate spending on certain goods and services for substantial savings. Discuss your family’s personal and financial goals to

determine if your spending habits are helping you accomplish those goals.

Shop the sales. Retailers are very aware of the crunch that buyers are facing. As a result, the number of sales is increasing. Whether you watch for weekly specials in the local newspaper ads, subscribe to a company’s email newsletter offering weekly information on their specials or rely on word of mouth, you can cut costs by watching to see what is on sale before making choices about where to shop and what items to buy. However, shopping the sales doesn’t mean recreational shopping. Instead, it means watching the specials and buying only what your family actually needs. Buying something because it is on sale is tempting, but it’s also a budget buster!

Shop smart. Oklahoma’s Sales Tax Holiday weekend (Tax.OK.gov) is August 7-9. Clothing and shoes valued

under $100 per item are exempt from tax; however, be aware that you may save more by shopping discount stores, resales hops and outlets. Watch prices and sale ads for true deals.

Shop with a list. Whether you are headed to the mall or the grocery store, make a list of what you need to purchase—and buy only what is on your list. Having a list will help you avoid overspending or being distracted by special offers or store displays.

Inventory your children’s closets. Check out their closets to see what clothing items or school supplies can be used again this fall.

Use cash for daily purchases. Paying with cash instead of debit or credit cards when stopping for a cup of coffee or hitting the drive-thru window will make you much more aware of how much you are actually spending. Set an amount to


spend each week and stick with it.

Watch the thermostat. Pushing the thermostat up a degree or so in the summer and down a degree or so in the winter will reduce your energy consumption. A slight change in temperature will have minimal impact on your comfort level but can reduce your monthly payment—or at least hold it constant with rising energy prices.

Make payments on time. Paying late fees, overdraft charges and other penalties add up quickly. Making your payments on time and watching your account balances saves you money and improves your credit rating. In the long run, you will have the added benefit of lower insurance rates and interest rates with a higher credit rating.

Review your insurance policies. Increasing your deductible will result in substantial savings. The additional money can be used to pay down debt, increase your savings or offset

increasing prices of necessities.

Review your budget. If you don’t have a budget, make one and stick with it. If you do have a budget, take time to review it carefully. When prices are changing, you may need to make adjustments to ensure you are not overspending in one or more areas.

Continue paying yourself first. When money gets tight, it is tempting to eliminate regular contributions to your saving account. Using your emergency savings for repairs and maintenance is less expensive than charging them on a credit card. Savings provide the cushion you need to survive difficult economic times.

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

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Character FirstCreativity

“I’m bored.”

“So am I. There’s nothing to do around here.”

Chances are you’ve heard that more than once... today. Sometimes it seems like a

mantra for modern kids. Between cable TV, the DVD and the Wii, a lot of children have come to believe they should be entertained at all times. In some cases, this constant connection with electronic abbreviations has short-circuited their creativity connections.

Creativity means approaching a need, task or idea from a new perspective. Too often, we relegate creativity to the painters and writers—a trait needed by the world’s artists, but better set aside by the rest of us. But this isn’t so. The corporate world calls creativity

“thinking outside the box” and it’s needed now more than ever. It’s easy for companies and individuals to get in a rut or adopt an attitude of “good enough.” But progress and innovation often depends on the ability to approach problems from a different angle. This is the essence of creativity.

As parents, there are a number of ways we can inspire creativity in our children—and they don’t all involve signing up for art classes (although those always help).

Change your routine. 1. You may feel like you’re on a treadmill: breakfast, drive the kids to school, go to work, pick the kids up, dinner, homework, get ready for bed. Then the next day you do exactly the same thing with little or no variation? Is there any way to add some fun into the mix to break things up? Creative escapes don’t have to be costly or time consuming. For example, instead of your usual dinner, why not have sandwiches at the park or a picnic in your backyard.

Try new things. 2. As adults, we often have the luxury of doing only the things we do well. If we’re not good at math, we use a calculator; if we are not athletic, we avoid sports. Our children, however are expected to master a variety of skills ranging from soccer to algebra. Challenge yourself to dive into something new this month, whether it is a hobby you’ve always wanted to try or just a new food. New experiences stimulate our brains and open us up creatively.

Approach problems from a 3. different angle. If completing a certain task or chore seems to be a problem in your household, look for creative solutions. Ask yourself and your family if there is

a way to make the job more fun or interesting. Matching socks might be the most boring task on the planet, but turning it into a race to see who can come up with the most pairs in a minute makes it much more fun.

Remember to laugh.4. I’m sure that stoic people have creative ideas too, but those who have a sense of joy seem to ooze creativity. Consider this quote from Thomas Edison, “To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk.” Now, tell me he didn’t have a sense of humor.

Gayleen Rabakukk is a freelance writer who spends her time in Edmond keeping up with her teenage and preschool daughters.

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Spotlight on Character WinnerCyndi Trang consistently demonstrates the character traits of compassion, generosity and determination. Cyndi spends much of her free time volunteering. Throughout her junior and senior year at Moore High School, Cyndi could be found each week at the Moore Public Library, where she served on the teen board, helped with events for teens and worked at sorting and shelving books. Through Key Club, she helped with an annual ice cream party at the J.D. McCarty Children’s Center. Cyndi says both of these things mean a lot to her and she treasures her time spent helping with them. But the volunteer work that has meant the most for her is what she does with The Hugs Project, a non-profit organization founded in Oklahoma to send care packages to soldiers overseas. “I know I can’t be there to actually help them, but they know that I am supporting them emotionally,” Cyndi said. The group collects care package items like cool ties, DVDs, toiletries and books, boxes them up and then mails them to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. “I really encourage others to volunteer with The Hugs Project,” Cyndi said. “What we’re doing is not hard, but it supports the hard work that others are doing to protect democracy.” To learn more about The Hugs Project, visit TheHugsProject.com.

Cyndi was nominated by her biology teacher, Mrs. Tamara Lookabaugh. In addition to telling us about Cyndi’s volunteer work, she also shared with us her academic dedication. Cyndi recently graduated eighth out of a class of 517 at Moore High School, while carrying a full load of AP classes and serving as president of National Honor Society. But she asked that we recognize Cyndi for more than her GPA, “She is a true humanitarian at a very young age,” Lookabaugh wrote. “Her drive and determination to go beyond herself, to help others and make a difference in our world is inspiring.”

Cyndi will soon be majoring in nursing at Marymount University in Virginia. “I always wanted to do something that would help the world and I thought nursing would be a good start.” Cyndi is the daughter of Thanh and Phuong Trang of Moore.

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For many families, sending children back to school in the fall can be a challenging transition.

“As the mother of three kids, I can tell you that the pace and schedule of the summer is hard to leave behind,” says Susan Fletcher, a nationally-known psychologist, author and speaker from Plano, Texas. “Going back to school means you have to be on a schedule, and most of the time there is little fl exibility to fi t it all in.”The author of Parenting in the Smart Zone, Fletcher believes the cornerstone of being a successful parent is knowing what you expect from yourself, your own philosophies and goals. Beyond that, she says that if you want to stay in the “Smart Zone,” you have to be able to adjust to whatever life tosses your way.

As the mother of two elementary-age daughters, I know first-hand that the start of the school year brings a mix of excitement and anxiety—for all of us. It’s not easy to say good-bye to the summer.

Expect the honeymoon period“For most children, there is some excitement going back to school, seeing their friends and having something to do,”

Fletcher says. “Believe it or not, some children report being bored at the end of the summer.”

Then, about two weeks into school, many parents report the “fun of it” wears off for their kids.

“Teachers begin to give assignments, the excitement of seeing their friends wears off a little, and school becomes more about serious stuff,” Fletcher says. “That is when the honeymoon is over. For most families, it may even feel like there was no summer break at all.”

Prepare for school startingIt’s important for parents to anticipate the honeymoon period wearing off about two to three weeks after school starts.

Fletcher offers some excellent ideas for all families to consider for the beginning of the school year.

Establish routines. Beginning with the first day of school, give your children age-appropriate responsibilities for the morning routine and school commitments. Kids can write schedules on the calendar, get backpacks ready the night before and designate a spot to put papers that parents need to review. “It is easy to be more relaxed about this the first few weeks of school, but it is important to help kids be in the right frame of mind to develop a routine,” Fletcher says.

Plan a get-together. Schedule now to have a friend over to play, spend the night or watch a movie about the third or fourth week of school. “This gives your child something to look forward to and positive anticipation about spending time with a friend they haven’t seen all summer, especially if they had some disappointment about not being in the same class this year,” Fletcher says.


Private SchoolsBishop John Carroll School ................................... 8/18Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School ............ 8/13Blue Eagle Christian Academy, Norman ............... 8/17Casady School K-8 ............................................... 8/27Casady School 9-12 .............................................. 8/26Children’s House Montessori, Norman.................. 8/24Christ the King ....................................................... 8/18Community Christian School, Norman .................. 8/27Crossings Christian School ................................... 8/20Edmond Christian Academy .................................. 8/17Good Shepherd Lutheran School .......................... 8/12Guthrie Christian School ....................................... 8/24Harvest Hills Christian School, Yukon ................... 8/24Heritage Hall School ............................................. 8/19King’s Gate School ................................................ 9/8Life Christian Academy ......................................... 8/13Moore Christian School ......................................... 8/20

OKC Montessori .................................................... 9/1Oklahoma Christian Academy, Edmond ............... 8/13Oklahoma Christian School, Edmond ................... 8/13Preach Unto Them Jesus Christian Academy ................................................ 8/20Rosary School ....................................................... 8/13St. Eugene Catholic School................................... 8/13St. James Catholic School .................................... 8/13Southwest Christian Academy .............................. 8/25Trinity School ......................................................... 8/18Villa Theresa, OKC & Moore ................................. 8/17Village Montessori School ..................................... 8/17Westminster School .............................................. 8/26

Public SchoolsBethany ................................................................. 8/20Calumet ................................................................. 8/19Cashion ................................................................. 8/12Chickasha .............................................................. 8/12

Choctaw-Nicoma Park .......................................... 8/17Crescent ................................................................ 8/12Deer Creek ............................................................ 8/18Edmond ................................................................. 8/18El Reno .................................................................. 8/18Guthrie ................................................................... 8/20Harrah ................................................................... 8/13Mid-Del .................................................................. 8/13Moore .................................................................... 8/13Mustang ................................................................. 8/20Norman .................................................................. 8/20Oakdale ................................................................. 8/19Oklahoma City ....................................................... 8/20Piedmont ............................................................... 8/19Putnam City ........................................................... 8/20Shawnee................................................................ 8/19Western Heights .................................................... 8/20Yukon ..................................................................... 8/20

2009 Oklahoma City Metro-Area School Start Dates

Set clear expectations. Be clear about your homework expectations. Develop a routine and stick to it. “Children, at any age, benefit from predictability,” Fletcher says. “We train people how to treat us. If you are relaxed about routine at the beginning of the school year, and then begin to tighten up when assignments are due, it could be a mixed message.”

Promote discipline. Even if your child doesn’t have homework, encourage her to read or work in a workbook during the time designated for homework. “This mentally prepares children to devote time during the day for academics outside of school hours. It is like a mental place card and a good habit,” Fletcher says.

Fletcher suggests that parents focus on “low value” items—having children carry their own backpack into school and bringing their dishes over to the sink after dinner. With this consistent focus, parents are prepared to better manage the

“high value” items—hitting a sibling and doing poorly on a test—when they occur.

“If we only require our children to come through when it really matters (high value items), they have not formed the habit to do so,” she says. “Concentrating on the little things (low value items) and holding our children responsible gets them prepared for when it matters.

“Developing the discipline for low value items helps a child experience success, promoting more success for later.”

Celebrate with friends. Parents need to also take care of themselves during this time of family transition. Plan activities that are stress-relievers during the honeymoon period and use them when the challenges are about to begin. “I’ve seen parents have a party the first month of school where everyone brings something to share for

dinner, and you celebrate the beginning of school,” Fletcher says. “This will help you reconnect with your friends too. We celebrate the end of school and the end of summer more often. Why not initiate the beginning of school as a time to celebrate?”

Kim Seidel is the mother of two who lives and writes in Wisconsin.

etcher says. “WWe e trtraia n ed about routinee a at t the begin to tighteen upp

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Kim Seidel is the mother off two whwho o liveessananand d wrwritti ees in n WiWiWW sscscononsis n.n



Q & A with the Beasleys

Dr. Stewart: A child’s developmental history is an important predictor of future success or failure in many facets of life including school. Unfortunately, developmental history isn’t a straight and unwavering path; sometimes children vary slightly, or significantly, from the norm. You have noted some important concerns and it’s frustrating to get mixed messages when you question what is happening with your child.

Dr. Lori: Start with your child’s pediatrician. The doctor can

explain to you the normal developmental milestones and how they apply in your child’s case. Most pediatricians and developmentalists believe more in developmental “indicators” rather than milestones since milestones sound as if they are fixed and absolute. You may also want to contact your county health department to make an appointment with a Child Development Specialist, who can screen for developmental issues and advise you on how to work with your young child.

Dr. Stewart: Remember that each child learns differently. Your son may respond to more individual learning time with you and his father. Working with him on

recognizing and naming colors can be a fun activity and there are many games you can improvise to teach him. Songs, memory games, and home searches for objects that are “green” or “start with the letter t” are examples.

Dr. Lori: Family domino games, card games like UNO or go fish, are creative ways to promote learning while also having fun. Louise Bates Ames has a series of easy-to-read books for parents that describe development year by year. Your Six-Year-Old might interest you

now! Another book is When Your Child is 6 to 12, by John M. Drescher.

Dr. Stewart: Even though you have discussed your concerns with your son’s teachers and they prefer a “wait and see” approach, you have the right to petition the public school he attends and ask for an in-depth evaluation by a school psychologist or school psychometrist. However, it can take weeks or months to get the evaluation. Another option is to get him evaluated by a private clinician or agency such as a licensed psychologist, licensed psychometrist, or a teaching/training agency such as the Child Study Center in the Department of Pediatrics at the OU College of Medicine, or the Special School Services unit in the Department of Psychology at the University of Central Oklahoma. Because the latter are training institutions, they often charge less for their full evaluations.

Dr. Lori: Federal laws can be invoked to govern how public institutions address learning issues in children. Federal law guarantees special adjustments and concessions be made to facilitate a developmentally delayed child’s learning. An individual education plan (IEP) addressing any and all delays can be tailored to each of the child’s needs. A team approach is used to create a plan for success for the child and parents are

Dear Dr. Beasleys,

Our six year old son will be in the first grade this year. Previous school experiences have been disastrous. He has difficulties with his A-B-Cs, colors, learning his home address, and sometimes going to school was a battle of the wills. Physically, he is clumsy and we have to use a beach ball to play catch. His pediatrician says he is “slightly” delayed but his previous teachers say they don’t see anything wrong with him and that he will catch up when he is ready. Is there anything we should do?

Hillary

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Dr. Stewart: We hope you find these comments helpful. As you know, parents are the major advocates for their children and we encourage you to continue your quest for answers to your questions.

Lori Beasley, EdD is Asst. Vice President of Academic Affairs and Professor of Family Life Education at the University of Central Oklahoma. Stewart R. Beasley, PhD is a licensed psychologist who practices in Edmond and Oklahoma City and is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.

Do you have a question about early childhood issues for the Beasleys? E-mail it to [email protected].

Children, despite delays or disabilities, can improve their skills allowing them

to reach their highest potential.


There’s a saying that when you fail to plan, you are planning to fail. It’s the same with parenting.

When we fail to set a mission or goal in training our children, we miss the target. Parenting offers an awesome and rich opportunity for us to shape future generations. Our legacy and values will continue to pass on to our children and our grandchildren.

As I was writing this article, I watched my five-year-old son eating popcorn. He asked me what I was doing. I told him,

“I’m writing something about raising boys.” He smiled as he chewed his popcorn, asking, “How do you do that?” That caught my nine-year-old son’s attention. He commented, “Whatever you write, don’t write anything that is embarrassing to me!” Boys. Aren’t they cute?

I offer you my non-embarrassing suggestions for training your boys to be good men.

Teach them to play within the playing fieldWe must teach boys to respect authority and to follow the rules. My nine-year-old said, “If you don’t follow the rules, you will be sent to the principal’s office.” Some unwanted outcomes may take place when a child fails to learn this lesson at a young age. Some men challenge the authorities in a disrespectful manner such as arguing with a police officer for traffic violation.

Personal boundaries teach us to respect our own and other’s physical and personal space. Boys need to know where the line is drawn so that they can play safely within the line.

Teach them to apologizeParents should teach boys at a young age to admit their mistakes and apologize to others when appropriate. A common problem in relationship comes when a husband or father is unable or unwilling to apologize. Tell your boys, “It takes a strong man to say ‘I’m sorry.’”

Teach them to use words of appreciationConstructive communication can help a man achieve a higher probability of success. Often, using words of appreciation strengthens teamwork. Train your boys to use words of appreciation. Make your home a nurturing environment to cultivate the frequent use of kind words. Teach your boys to verbalize their appreciation for their parents, who are working to support the family both within and outside of the home. Teach them to say encouraging words to their siblings and peers as well.

Build their self-confidenceWatch your boys’ efforts in various areas (sports, friendships, school), and praise them for the positive behaviors you see. For example, “Son, I noticed that you listened to your coach very attentively,

and you practiced hard. You’re a great team player.” Don’t give them empty praises just to make them feel good—go the extra mile to be specific. Avoid the common mistake of focusing on what they are not doing right.

Strengthen their resilienceOften, children give up easily once they find themselves not doing as well as someone else. Teach your boys to successfully recover after an upsetting event or circumstance. Catch them as they recover from difficulty and encourage them with a statement such as,

“I always admire how you can bounce back quickly.”

These are some of my perspectives on training your boys to become good men. Please make each moment count in passing on your legacy. You can shape future generations right in your own home.

Gloria So-Lloyd, Ph.D., LCSW. is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Counselign and Consulting Offi ces at Stonebridge in Edmond (CCOffi ces.com). She and her husband are the grateful parents of four young sons.

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

FREE Make & Take craft activities at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), 11am-3pm every Saturday. Ages 3 and up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

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

FREE StoryTime at Gymboree Penn Square, first Friday of every month, 10am. 842-7540.

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

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

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

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

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center. Guided park tour and nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm. Reservations and a fee of $2 are required. 755-0676.

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

FREE Toddler Storytime at the Norman Library. Every Monday 9:30-10am.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 10:30am. Activities for children ages 3-5 with adult held each Tuesday.

Classic Playground Games at Unpluggits Playstudio in Edmond every Wesnesday, 10:30am. For ages 2-5. 340-7584, Unpluggits.com.

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AUGUST S M T W T F S

Metropolitan Library SystemMetroLibrary.org

Belle Isle, 5501 N Villa, 843-9601

Bethany, 3510 N Mueller, 789-8363

Capitol Hill, 334 SW 26th, 634-6308

Choctaw, 2525 Muzzy, 390-8418

Del City, 4509 SE 15th, 672-1377

Downtown, 300 Park Ave, 231-8650

Edmond, 10 S Boulevard, 341-9282

Midwest City, 8143 E Reno, 732-4828

Ralph Ellison, 2000 NE 23rd, 424-1437

Southern Oaks, 6900 S Walker, 631-4468

The Village, 10307 N Penn, 755-0710

Warr Acres, 5901 NW 63rd, 721-2616

Harrah, 1930 N Church Ave, 454-2001

Jones, 111 E Main, 399-5471

Luther, 310 NE 3rd, 277-9967

Nicoma Park, 2240 Overholser, 769-9452

Wright Library, 2101 Exchange, 235-5035

Pioneer Library Systempls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard, 300 N Main, 485-2275

McLoud, 133 N Main, 964-2960

Moore, 225 S Howard, 793-5100

Newcastle, 705 NW Tenth, 387-5076

Noble, 204 N 5th, 872-5713

Norman, 225 N Webster, 701-2600

Purcell, 919 N Ninth, 527-5546

Shawnee, 101 N Philadelphia, 275-6353

Tecumseh, 114 N Broadway, 598-5955

Family FunIt may not feel like Christmas right now, but it will later this month. Disney’s A Christmas Carol Train Tour rolls into the Santa Fe Depot August 21-23, bringing a free behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of Disney’s A Christmas Carol movie, which will be released in theaters in November.

Glimpse a winter wonderland featuring holiday decor, Christmas carolers, behind-the-scenes glimpses of the film and artifacts from the Charles Dickens Museum. Interactive games will allow visitors to explore Dickens’ London in this train and surrounding exhibits.

Visitors will also have a chance to become a Disney Channel Movie Surfer by filming a segment. Contest participants will get a chance to appear on the Disney Channel and receive a prize package.

The Santa Fe Depot is located at 100 South E.K. Gaylord Blvd. Activities will be held Friday and Saturday 9am-7pm, Sunday 9am-4pm. For details, visit disney.go.com/disneypictures/christmascaroltraintour.


Half-price arcade games Wednesdays at Andy Alligator. 321-7275, AndyAlligators.com.

MonthlyGymboree of Norman Family Arts Studio is held the third Saturday, 11am-noon. Includes arts & crafts for children 18mos–5 years. $5 per child. Reservations required; 307-8454, GymboreeClasses.com.

Through August 4Amateur Talent Night on Tuesday evenings at Edmond’s Hafer Park, 6:15pm. For application form visit the MAC Center in Edmond or online EdmondOK.com/Parks/Rec. 216-7635.

Through August 7FREE Play in the Park at locations throughout OKC. Arts, crafts, games, sports and field trips. For complete location list visit OKC.gov/Parks. 297-2211.

Through August 8FREE American Quarter Horse Youth Show at the State Fairgrounds, 8am-10pm. AQHA.com/Youth/Index.

Through August 12Summer Farmers Market at the Festival Market Place in Downtown Edmond, 8am-1pm each Saturday and Wednesday. 359-4630.

Through August 16Bob the Builder at Frontier City. Join Bob and two members of his crew. Singing, dancing, and building. FREE with park admission. FrontierCity.com.

Through August 22Shakespeare in the Park presents Hamlet at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage, 8pm. Tickets $10, $8 students. 235-3700, OklahomaShakespeare.com.

Through August 23One Hundred Summers: A Kiowa Calendar Record at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

Through August 28The First Person: Stories of Hope program features inspiring speakers who were affected by the Oklahoma City bombing but have been able to persevere. Fridays, 1:30pm, Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. FREE with paid admission.

Through August 29Inside Peanuts: The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz Exhibit at the Edmond Historical Society. Featuring art work from Charlie Brown to the whole Peanuts gang. 340-0078, EdmondHistory.org.

Through August 30FREE Sunday Twilight Concert Series at the Myriad Gardens, 7pm. 270-4848, ArtsCouncilOKC.com.

Through September 5Farmers’ Market at the Children’s Center, (6800 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany). 100% Oklahoma-grown produce. Thursdays 2:30-6pm, Saturdays 8am–noon. 789-6711, TCCOKC.org.

Through September 13Spirit Red: Visions of Native American Artists from the Rennard Strickland Collection at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. Includes paintings, baskets, pottery, textiles and sculpture.

Through September 26Saturday Morning Cartoon Cruises depart at 10am from Regatta park landing, 11:30am from Meridian Landing. Roundtrip tickets $12 adults, $8 children 6-12. Children under 6 free with paying adult. 702-7755, OKRiverCruises.com.

Through OctoberCocktails on the Skyline at the OKC Museum of Art, 5-10:30pm. Every Thursday and Friday. A full bar, complimentary chips and salsa, and the Oklahoma City skyline. All ages are welcome. $12 adults, $10 seniors and students, FREE for members.

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

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

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

Little River ZooHwy 9, Norman366-7229, LittleRiverZoo.com

Myriad Botanical Gardens301 W Reno, OKC297-3995, MyriadGardens.com

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

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

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

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

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

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC606-7003, OklahomaChildrensTheatre.com

Oklahoma Heritage Center13th & Shartel, OKC235-4458, OklahomaHeritage.com

Oklahoma History Center2401 N Laird Ave, OKC522-5248, OklahomaHistoryCenter.org

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

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

Do you have an event for our calendar?

Email it to Calendar Editor Terri Fields, [email protected].

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Sunset Cruises with the Oklahoma River Cruises. Every Friday and Saturday, 7:30pm. Enjoy the climate-controlled cabin with drinks and light hors d’oeuvres. All passengers must be 21 years of age or older to board. $35 per person. 702-7755, OKRiverCruises.com.

Through DecemberThe ConservaStory exhibit at the Myriad Gardens. A tropical adventure of the storybook kind. A pirate ship, giants and fairies.

Through January 10, 2010Not Just a Housewife: The Changing Roles of Women in the West exhibit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum focuses on women who tackled non-traditional roles including prospecting, politics, artists and business owners.

Through January 2010Another Hot Oklahoma Night exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center celebrates rock & roll in Oklahoma. AnotherHotOklahomaNight.org.

August1 • SaturdayInspiration Hill Concert at 880669 S 3330 Rd (2.5 miles north of Wellston), 7pm. Love offering will be taken. 356-4051.

G.I. Joe Exhibit opening at the Toy & Action Figure Museum, (111 S Chickasaw, Pauls Valley) 10am-5pm. Scavenger hunt, trivia contests, giveaways. $6. 238-6300, ActionFigureMuseum.com.

Family Fun Day at Vatterott College (4621 NW 23rd, OKC), 10am-2pm. Food, entertainment and games. Bring canned food items for admission. 945-0088.

1-4The Oklahoma Redhawks take on the Round Rock Express at the Bricktown Ballpark, 7:05pm. Tickets $7 and up. 218-1000, OklahomaRedhawks.com. Other home games held 8/14-21, 31.

1-14Summer Camps at City Arts Center, 8am-4pm. Classes include pottery, drawing, painting and puppet master. For children 5-17. Registration $150 per week.

2-8 Shark Week at the Oklahoma Aquarium. Presentations on feedings and the chance to win prizes.

3 • MondayLibrary Night at the Ballpark. MetroLibrary readers who completed goal #2 in the Summer at the Library program receive free admission (with prize voucher) at the Redhawks ticket office. 7:05pm, Bricktown Ballpark.

FREE admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

4 • TuesdayFREE Stars under the Stars Movie Night at Andy Alligator featuring a family-friendly movie on the huge outdoor screen. Free popcorn; buy an unlimited fun wristband for free medium soda coupon. Bring your blanket or lawn chair. 321-7275, AndyAlligators.com. Also held 8/ 11, 18, 25.

4-6Blood Drives at following locations: Tuesday at Norman Regional Hospital, 7am-5pm; Wednesday at the Bloodmobile at Norman HealthPlex, 1:30am-5pm; Thursday at Moore Medical Center, 11am-4pm. NormanRegional.com.

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4-8The Producers at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $28 and up. 524-9312, LyricTheatreOKC.com.

5 • WednesdayFREE Clowning Around with Chester at the Del City Library, 10:30am.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. 2002 film “The Count of Monte Cristo”. Also held 8/12, 19, 26.

5-9Aladdin presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre at Burg Theatre, 10am & noon. Tickets: children 2-12 $5, 13 and up $7.

6 • ThursdayFREE Astronomy Lecture Series at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 7-8pm. Lunar Eclipses with Jeff Thibodeau of the OKC Astronomy Club.

FREE Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30am. Marcy Priest and Bryan Jackson. Also held 8/13, 20, 27.

7 • FridayFREE Public Landscaping at the Will Rogers Gardens, (3400 NW 36th) 9:30am–12:30pm. Learn the basics of caring for adopted parks and other public spaces. Registration required. 943-0827, OKC.gov/Parks.

FREE You Can Homeschool Seminar at the Edmond Library, (Room A) 7-8:30pm. OCHEC.com, EdmondHomeEducators.org.

7-9Statewide Tax-Free Shopping Weekend. tax.ok.gov/upmin070609.html.

8 • SaturdayGreater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert/Jam. 3925 SE 29th, Del City, 6:30pm. $6, age 12 and under free. 677-7515, GOBMS.org. Also held 8/29.

Crack of Dawn Nature Hike at Martin Park Nature Center, (5000 W Memorial Rd) 5:45am. Great for novice bird-watchers. $2 each, register at 755-0676. OKC.gov/Parks.

FREE INTEGRIS Back to School Fair at Penn Square Mall features free health assessments and demonstrations, cooking demos and a performance by OKC Thunder mascot Rumble. 10am-1pm. 841-2696.

FREE Kids Fishing Clinic at Metro Tech Springlake, (NE 36th and Springlake Drive) 8am. Children 5-15 learn casting skills, knot-tying and fish identification. Equipment provided. Registration required. 316-FISH, OKC.gov/Parks.

FREE Sizzlin’ Summer Jazzy Concert at the Belle Isle Library, 2-3pm, featuring vocalist Martha Stallings. Refreshments provided.

8-9Iron Kids Triathlon for kids ages 6-15. Lake Hefner. Expo and packet pickup Saturday 11am-4pm. Race day registration on Sunday begins at 6:30am to 15 minutes prior to event start time (8am seniors, 9am intermediates, 10am juniors). IronKids.com for registration and competition details.

9 • SundayFREE Summer Breeze Concert Series presents Son del Barrio at Andrews Park in Norman, 7:30pm. Bring your own lawn chairs and drinks. 307-9320, ThePAS.org.

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FREE Bach concert at the Downtown Library, 2pm. All ages.

10 • MondayScout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium. Discounted admission for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Camp Fire, 4-H, and FFA in uniform or carrying a membership card. Attendees may also earn the Oklahoma Aquarium’s Junior Biologist Badge.

10-14Gymboree Play & Music Sports Camp at Northpark Mall, 1:30-3:30pm. Includes art, play time, snack, storytime and parachute play. Registration $125. Ages 3-5. 755-3445, [email protected].

14 • FridayFREE Art “à la CART” at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 6-9pm. Hands-on art activities, live music by Norman singer/songwriters and independent film by deadCENTER Film Festival.

Norman’s Jacobson House Native Art Center features Spiroinspirations: the Art of Victoria McKinney. Opening reception 6-9pm. 366-1667, JacobsonHouse.com.

15 • SaturdayMetroFamily Family Tweetup held before and during the early part of the Oklahoma Redhawks game. FREE admission and game tickets for first 150 to register. Participants are encouraged to bring school supplies that will be donated to Skyline Urban Ministries. Tweetup begins at 5:30pm; game at 7:05. Find details and register at MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Family-Tweetup.

FREE Kids Fishing Clinic at Edwards Park Lake (1515 N Bryant), 8am. Children 5-15 learn casting skills,

knot-tying and fish identification. Equipment provided. Registration required. 316-FISH, OKC.gov/Parks.

Focus on Color workshop for ages 10-13 at the OKC Museum of Art, 10am-noon. Choose a design and replicate it into a pattern. $10 members, $15 non-members. Pre-registration required.

FREE Dillard’s Let it Rock Fashion Show at Quail Springs Mall, 1:30pm. See the latest Back to School trends, games and prizes. QuailSpringsMall.com.

FREE Back to School Family Event at Michaels Stores, 10am-1pm. Personalize your school supplies. For ages 5-12. Michaels.com for locations.

Bikers for Babies fundraiser 9:30am. Registration $25. 943-1025, BikersForBabies.org

FREE Midwest City Library Community Health Fair at the Midwest City Library, 10am-4pm. Health tests and information. Registration required. 732-4828.

18 • TuesdayLittle Shop of Horrors at the Civic Center Music Hall, 8pm. Tickets $28 and up. 524-9312, LyricTheatreOKC.com.

Sportman’s Beast Feast Dinner at Crossings Community Church, 6:30pm. Featured speaker Jeff Danker of Buckventures Outdoor TV. Door prizes. $10. Doors open 5:45pm. 755-2227, CrossingsOKC.org.

19 • WednesdayFREE Get Animated at the Oklahoma Aquarium, 2-6pm. Animation-themed activitie, plus prizes and Aquarium discounts.

21 • FridayEdmond Home Educator Support Group’s Back-to-

of Oklahoma City

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Visit our website for information about Demo Days and Fall Classes!

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Ask at your school or see our website!405-285-9643

Get ready for school with Mad Science

NASA Academy of Future Space Explorers• The World Around Me: Pre-K-1st Grade • Crazy Chemworks• Secret Agent Lab•

Baby FacesMaking Memories of a Lifetime

3D-4D Prenatal Ultrasound 16 years of OB Ultrasound Experience

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Call for information

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School Vendor Fair at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, (308 NW 164th, Edmond) 6:30-9pm. [email protected].

22 • SaturdayFREE Kids Fishing Clinic at Crystal Lake, (6625 SW 15th St), 8am. Children 5-15 learn casting skills, knot-tying and fish identification. Equipment provided. Registration required. 316-FISH, OKC.gov/Parks.

Second Annual Charity Event benefiting The Kids’ Place of Edmond at Putt A Round (601 S Bryant) 8am. Entry fee $10. Register online FarmersAgent.com/kbaird/Events. 285-5050.

23 • SundayFREE Summer Breeze Concert Series presents Darrell Scott at Lions Park in Norman, 7:30pm. Bring your own lawn chairs and drinks. 307-9320, ThePAS.org.

24-29Just Between Friends Consignment Sale at the OKC Fairgrounds, 10am-7pm. $2 admission on first day, all other days free. JBFSale.com. See coupon, page 3.

26-29FREE Canadian County Free Fair at the Fairgrounds in El Reno, 6-10pm. Rides, games, entertainment, livestock show, food, antique tractor pulls, pet parade. 262-0683, CanadianCountyFair.com.

27 • ThursdayHomeschool Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium. For Homeschool families and groups who cannot meet the 25 person minimum. $7 students, $10 adults. Pre-registration is required.

27-29Twelfth Night presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at the Myriad Gardens Water Stage, 8pm. Tickets $10, students $8. 235-3700, OklahomaShakespeare.com.

FREE 95th Annual Oklahoma County Free Fair at the Oklahoma State Fair Park. 713-1125. Details, oces.okstate.edu/oklahoma.

27-31The Moving Wall, a half-size replica of the Washington DC Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be on display at City Hall Park. 522 W Rainey, Weatherford. 800-725-7744.

28-30Arcadia Heritage Festival and Rodeo at the Arcadia Municipal Park, noon-8pm. Food, games, arts & crafts, toys, African clothing and t-shirts. 396-2899.

29 • SaturdayFREE Dustbowl Arts Market on Campus Corner in Norman, 10am-6pm. Art market, live music and hands-on kids art area. DustbowlArtsMarket.com.

30 • SundayFamily Day at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, noon-4pm. Hands-on activities, door prizes and entertainment. FREE with paid admission.

September 3FREE Appetite for the Arts Festival in downtown El Reno, 5-10pm. Art show, demonstration art, entertainment and food. 262-8888, ElRenoMainStreet.org.

Call Gay Snyder M.Ed. at 471-9303 to find out more and schedule

your child’s screening.Gsnyderchilddevelopment.com

Now there is a short screening available to determine if children

ages 24-36 months are “at risk” for autism.

“Does my child have autism?”

(405) 200-1691th

AWESOME Parties

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Childbirth & BabiesDACO (Doula Association of Central OK), 455-1500, DACOinc.org.

La Leche League meets at Gymboree Play & Music in Norman the second Saturday of each month, 10am-noon. Family Gym is available at $5 per family for partners and children of meeting attendees.

La Leche League breastfeeding information and support. Meetings in Moore and NW OKC. Visit the calendar at MetroFamilyMagazine.com for dates, times, and contact info. lllusa.org.

Buckle Up and Boogie Workshop at Babies R Us. Expectant parents learn about features and benefits of car safety seats. Last Tuesday of the month, 6:30pm. 840-2820, BabiesRUs.com.

Pump and Go Workshop at Babies R Us. Information about accessories that make breastfeeding easier and tips for new moms. Third Tuesday of the month, 6:30pm. 840-2820, BabiesRUs.com.

NICU Graduate Support Group at Mercy Health Center, (Conference Center Lower Level) the last Monday of the month, 7-8pm. For all discharged NICU families (no matter which hospital). Contact Danette at [email protected] for more information.

Counseling & SupportDivorce Recovery Group, Wednesdays at 7pm, Quail Springs Church of Christ (14401 N May), room 308. 755-4790.

Free drug and alcohol addiction classes offered by A Chance to Change Foundation at the Last Frontier Council Scout Service Center (3031 NW 64th), 6:30-8pm Mondays. 840-9000, AChanceToChange.org.

Grief Support Group, Wednesdays at 7pm, Quail Springs Church of Christ (14401 N May), room 110. 755-4790.

H.O.P.E. Gynecologic Cancer Support at the OU Physicians Building, (5th floor) the first Saturday of each month at 10am. 271-8001 ext 48165, 672-1748.

Mondays Friends Breast Cancer Support Group second Monday, 7pm. Midwest Regional Breast Care Center. 610-8872, [email protected].

Birth Parent support group, first Monday, 6-7:30pm. Deaconess Pregnancy & Adoption Services (5300 N Meridian). 949-4200 ext 13.

United Methodist Church of the Servant (14343 N MacArthur), holds Discoveries Program classes for adults. Call Gayle 720-8480 for full listing.

Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) holds a variety of Care Series classes and support groups. 755-2227 or CrossingsOKC.org.

Pancreatic Cancer support group, last Thursday, 6pm. O’Donoghue Research Building (1122 NE 13th Street), 3rd Floor Surgery Research Conference Room. 271-2108 or ouhsc.edu/surgery/pancan.

Breast Cancer Survivor support group, second Thursday, 6:30pm. Young Survival Coalition (for women under 40), third Wednesday, noon. Breast Imaging of OK (2601 Kelley Pointe Pkwy, Edmond). 844-2601 ext 1031.

Breast Cancer awareness group for women. First Monday, 7pm. Eastside Church of Christ (916 S Douglas), 732-0393.

Breast Cancer support group at the OU Breast Institute (825 NE10th), Suite 3500, third Thursday, noon-1pm. Lunch provided; register 271-8001, ext 48592, or 271-8001 ext. 48527.

Amputees’ Next Step support group, second Tuesday 1-3pm. O’Donoghue Rehabilitation Institute (1122 NE 13th, room 252). OUPhysicians.com.

Parents of Children with Cancer support group, second Wednesday at noon (complimentary lunch). Children’s Hospital (930 NE 13th). 943-8888.

Parents Helping Parents confidential meetings for parents of children who abuse drugs. First and third Tuesdays. Oklahoma Blood Institute in Edmond, 642-8198, ParentsHelpingParents.info.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored Family Support Group. First Thursday, 6pm, Integris Baptist Medical Center. 943-8888.

Myeloma Support Group. Third Thursday, 6pm, 7th floor Conference room, Presbyterian Tower, OU Medical Center, 271-6557.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society-sponsored Spanish-Speaking Group. First Tuesday, 6pm at Integris Southwest Medical Center, 636-7560; and first Wednesday, 5pm at the 7th floor Conference room, Presbyterian Tower, OU Medical Center, 271-7930.

Family Support Group for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma survivors and caregivers, second Tuesday, 6pm. Mercy Cancer Center, 943-8888.

Head Injury Support Group, third Tuesday at 5100 N Brookline, Suite 100, 6-8pm. BrainInjuryOklahoma.org/okc.

GriefShare, Thursdays 7pm. Henderson Hills Baptist Church (15th & I-35, Edmond) Room 100. HendersonHills.com.

DivorceCare, Wednesdays 7:45pm. Henderson Hills Baptist Church (15th & I-35, Edmond) Room 100. HendersonHills.com.

Celebrate Recovery, Mondays 6pm. Henderson Hills Baptist Church (15th & I-35, Edmond) Hillside Café. HendersonHills.com.

Parenting GroupsMom’s Got Connections Christian group for moms with young children (birth-5yrs). Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, OKC, 9:30-11am Tuesdays. [email protected] or 720-7164.

MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) activity groups meet in Edmond, OKC, Moore, Midwest/Del City and Norman. MOMSClub.org.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) support groups meet in Choctaw, Norman, Edmond and OKC. Visit MetroFamilyMagazine.com/Calendar for dates, times, and contact info.

Edmond’s Mothers of Multiples, second Thursday at Edmond Hospital, 7pm. 285-5208 and 315-0338, EdmondMoms.com.

Special NeedsParents Fighting Autism, St. Stephens United Methodist Church, Norman, third Monday of the month at 7pm. Meeting time subject to change please contact [email protected].

OKC Area Stuttering Support Group for adults. Third Tuesday, 6:30-7:30pm. First United Methodist Church, 303 E Hurd, Edmond. [email protected].

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support group for grandparents and other relatives raising children. First and third Tuesday, 6pm, Trinity Church of the Nazarene. 634-4400 ext. 140.

CHADD ADD/ADHD support meeting, second Tuesday at 7pm. Deaconess Medical Offices North. 722-1ADD, 419-4176, or CHADD.org.

The free Talking Hands sign language class meets Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm, 300 N Air Depot, Midwest City. [email protected].

Hope Link meetings for parents of special-needs children or children with undiagnosed disorders. Integris Baptist Medical Center, first Thursday, 6pm. 271-5072, OKCHopeLink.org.

15 • SaturdayFREE Carotid Artery Screening at Norman Regional’s Education Center (901 N Porter). 8am-11:30pm. Register at 440-8802.

There are as many support groups in the Metro as there are needs for them. To include your group in our listing, please email details to [email protected].

Become a fan of MetroFamily atfacebook.com/metrofamily


As dads, busy with family and career, we often don’t leave time for ourselves. And if we do, it’s

frequently just enough time to catch a football game or grab a beer. That’s nice, but it hardly helps us be all we can be. And it’s not intentional; it’s just that life fills our time rather quickly. It’s widely believed that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I beg to differ. In fact, I suggest that old dogs can teach themselves new tricks if they put their mind to it. In fact, they should.

I’m a firm believer that guys shouldn’t stop being guys just because they become fathers. Sure, you can’t possibly have time for everything anymore, and family time should be a priority, but you can’t be at your best if you don’t take care of yourself. You can’t maintain a healthy sense of who you are if you lose your identity in the busy pace of family life. That means you need to carve out time for yourself on a regular basis.

I found this out recently when, now in my early 30s, I took up action sports again—rollerblading, to be specific. Not recreational rollerblading, but the kind done on ramps and off flights of stairs, X-Games style. It was a mainstay of my existence through childhood and even through college, but as I got married and started a career it fell by the wayside. I’ve always wanted to pick it back up again “when I had the time,” but we all know how that works, and I’m not getting any younger.

I’m in relatively good shape from mountain biking several times a week, but haven’t had my skates on in at least three years.

Presented with some time off from work with the birth of our third child, I stumbled across a local public skate park and remembered that my old skates were still in the back of the garage. I decided that waiting for “the right time” might never happen and, heck, I’m still young by most standards, so I reckoned that if it’s something I wanted, I should make

the time for it. The next day, at 6am, I headed to the skate park instead of for my usual bike ride (added bonus being that there’s no one around at that time in the morning, and thus no one to laugh at me). And I’m glad I did! Not only did I get an amazing workout (30 minutes skating ramps is probably equivalent to a hard two hour bike ride), but I rediscovered something I’d deeply missed. In a strange way, I felt more like me again.

I now skate once or twice a week; it’s great exercise and I’m having a blast! I’ve reconnected with old friends who I discovered are still skating. I have to take care of my body much more deliberately than I used to, making sure to stretch and ice injuries right

away, but that’s par for the course, I guess. The experience has also pushed me in other areas of my life. The first time I hit the skate park I lasted about 30 minutes. Now I can go out for 90 minutes… and I figure that if I can push myself like that than, I can push myself in my work and with my family to do more than I thought I was capable of doing—a valuable lesson, to be sure.

So, what are you “waiting for the right time” for? Stop putting it off. If you used to run, keep running. If you’ve always wanted to play guitar, go for it! You only live once, so make the most of it. Enjoy!

Ben Murphy is the Founder of TheFatherLife.com, the online men’s magazine for dads. He lives in New York State with his wife and three daughters.

The Father LifeOld Dog, New Tricks

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Call or Visit a Catholic

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St. Philip NeriPreK - 8th GradeMidwest City, OK

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St. Eugene Catholic SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OK

steugeneschool.org 405.751.0067

Christ the King SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OK

ckschool.com405.843.3909

Rosary SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OK

rosaryschool.com 405.525.9272

Villa Teresa MoorePreK3 - KindergartenSouth Oklahoma City, OK

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405.691.7737

Sacred Heart Catholic SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OK

sacredheartokc.org 405.634.5673

St. Elizabeth Ann SetonPreK - 8th Grade

Edmond, OKstjohn-catholic.org

405.348.5364

St. James SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OK

home.swbell.net/stjames1 405.636.6810

Villa Teresa SchoolPreK - 4th GradeOklahoma City, OK

villateresaschool.com405.232.4286

St. John Nepomuk Catholic School

PreK3 - 8th GradeYukon, OKsjnok.org

405.354.2509

St. Charles Borromeo SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OKscbschool.org 405.789.0224

Bishop John Carroll SchoolPreK - 8th GradeOklahoma City, OKwww.bjcs.org405.525.0956

St. Mary’s Catholic SchoolPreK-8th Grade

Guthrie, OKStmarysguthrie.com

405.282.2071

Mount St. Mary Catholic High School

Grades 9 - 12Oklahoma City, OK

mountstmary.org 405.631-8865

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School

Secondary College Preparatory Grades 9 - 12

Oklahoma City, OKbmchs.org

405.842.6638

Sacred Heart of El RenoPreK3 - 5th grade

El Reno, OKelrenosacredheart.com

405.262.2284

Holy Trinity Catholic SchoolPreK3 - 8th grade

Okarche, OK holytrinityok.org

405.263.4422

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