MetroFamily Magazine April 2020

MetroFamily Magazine. OKC Family Fun & Resources. Local events calendar.

APRIL 2020

Conquer Cabin Fever At-home family fun ideas Parenting Through a Pandemic Making mental

wellness a priority Back to Nature Outdoor adventures for the socially distant

Hop to page 6 to peep our Easter Egg Hunt Challenge!

• Mad Science • Youth Tech Video Game Design • Drama Kids

• Kindermusik • Photography • Outdoor Adventure • Sports and more!

Ages 3-17 Scholarships are available May 26 – August 7 Day and Weeklong Camps

405.359.4630 EDMONDPARKS.COM

Looking for an Easter Egg hunt?

Hop to our virtual challenge for egg-citing prizes! Click on the 7 ads throughout this issue to find fun family challenges from our partners! You can complete each one to be eligible to win great prizes!

BEAVERS BEND STATE PARK

Features 8 Parenting Through a Pandemic Protecting your family’s mental wellness 12 Cultivating Kid Gardeners Planting the seeds for a love of horticulture 24 Dental Emergencies Explained How to handle mouth injuries

Departments 20 Local Family Fun

Urban adventure parks inspire active play

26 Real Moms of the Metro

Oklahoma’s first female secretary of agriculture

36 Exploring Oklahoma with Children

Outdoor adventure awaits in Beavers Bend 56 Super Kids of the Metro Middle schooler celebrates her Native American heritage 62 #okcfamilyfun

30 Looking Back, Thinking Forward Commemorating 25 years since the OKC bombing Preparing kids for storm season 40 Kids & Parents Compare Lessons learned at summer camp, then and now 44 Summer Camp Guide Dozens of ideas for learning, fun and friendship 32 Weather Wise

Readers share at-home family fun, plus encouragement & resources

From the cover: Conquer Cabin Fever page 17 Parenting Through a Pandemic page 8

Back to Nature page 12, 36 & 61 Summer Camp Guide page 44

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

2020

I remember April 19, 1995 in vivid me there’d been an explosion downtown, a gas leak, near where my mom worked as a federal probation officer. Teachers turned on the news and I became frantic as I recognized the name of the building and that of our credit union. Eventually I was able to reach my dad, breathing a huge sign of relief that my mom was not at the Murrah Building that day but in her office a block south. I can recall exactly what my mom was wearing as she enveloped me in a tearful hug in the school’s office. I’ll never forget my mom’s face when she saw the front of the building on the news; having been on the south side, she and her colleagues weren’t fully aware of the damage. I remember her reaction when we heard it wasn’t a gas leak but a bomb. The phone rang constantly, and I watched her exhale as she heard friends, colleagues and friends’ children were OK. Her face crumpled when it was confirmed others had perished. detail. I was transitioning between my sixth grade classes when a friend told MY MOM AND ME AT THE 2019 FINISH LINE OF THE OKLAHOMA CITY MEMORIAL HALF MARATHON.

Publisher Sarah Taylor Managing Editor Erin Page Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo Contributing Writers Tanya Schoor Art Director Stacy Noakes Senior Project Manager Kirsten Holder Sales Dana Price Laura Beam Office Manager Kathy Alberty Debbi Marshall Debbie Murnan

We visited the site more than once before it was demolished, tucked mementos into the fence surrounding it, prayed for all those affected. We drove with our headlights on for weeks in commemoration. We also watched our city come together, and we watched the nation and world send support, too. The first time I visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum I was so proud of the intentionality that went into creating a space where all could experience the hope that can arise out of utter devastation. I remember how hard it was — still is — for my mom to hear the sound of the blast at the beginning of the tour. Mom and I have run the Oklahoma City Memorial half marathon together four times to remember those lost, those who survived and those changed forever. Though the race has been postponed this year until October, we’ll still be running, just the two of us, six feet apart, on the original April 26 date. We’ll recognize 168 seconds of silence before we begin, and, as it is every year, I know her face will be wet with tears. As I do every year, I will vow not to take a day with my precious mom for granted, and we’ll promise together to do all we can to remember everyone impacted that day and help further the memorial’s mission to teach future generations about healing, strength and resilience. In remembrance,

sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2019 by Inprint Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 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.

Circulation audited by

Proud member of

Erin Page Managing Editor

Also a member of Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Moore Chamber of Commerce

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 5

NEED TO KNOW

Hop to our Easter Egg Hunt challenge!

Nominate your Family Favorites! What better time to show

some love to your favorite local businesses?! From dance studios to splash pads, restaurants to attractions (and even family restrooms!), our reader-voted Family Favorites awards make it easy for OKC families to find the best local resources. Nominate your favorites by April 14 at metrofamilymagazine.com/vote- family-favorites. The first round of voting results in three finalists for each category. Voting to determine the winners will take place April 28 to May 5. The winner in each category and two finalists will be highlighted in our Everything Guide, published in July. Thank you for your help!

We know lots of metro Easter egg hunts have been canceled this year, so we’re bringing Easter fun right to you, no baskets required! Peruse the pages of this issue to search for Easter egg ads. When you find one, click on it to reveal a family fun challenge, which might be to create a picture of spring or take a pic of your dog, then enter for your chance to win some very egg-citing prizes! There are 7 egg challenges to reveal throughout the pages. Good luck!

CONQUERING CORONAVIRUS

• Local expert advice on talking to kids about COVID-19 and family mental wellness • Highlights on local attractions, businesses and restaurants doing their part to support families • An up-to-date list of metro closings and student meal resources • Ways your family can help the community In addition, find us @metrofamilyokc on Instagram and search MetroFamily on Facebook for more of this helpful content. We would love for you to share with us the resources, information, encouragement or levity that would be helpful to you. Send an email to tips@metrofamilymagazine.com and we will be sure to respond. Even in this time of social distancing, one thing is for certain: We need each other. We will get through this — together .

As parents, our number one priority is to love and protect our children. Even in these uncertain times, we at MetroFamily see you working hard to stay calm, love your families well, support our community and share resources — and we salute you . You are inspiring us to lean into our mission to encourage, support and come alongside you in this unprecedented season of parenting. MetroFamily is committed to keeping you in- formed, making you smile and lowering the stress your family is feeling. Our website, metro- familymagazine.com/coronavirus-okc, is being updated frequently with news and tips like: • FREE resources for at-home fun • Links to educational opportunities and virtual field trips from our local partners • Tips on homeschooling and working from home from metro parents

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Winner Cutest Baby Photo Contest!

S ummer @CCS

Maejor was stealing hearts and taking names at this year’s Bump, Baby & More Expo, where MetroFamily held our first ever cutest baby photo contest with Kelly Lynn Photography. We loved meeting Maejor and we know you will, too! Maejor , 18 months Family: Mom Shaila, dad Jonathan and big brother Tristen 5 words that best describe him: sweet, inquisitive, energetic, social, happy Daily must-do: Maejor loves to watch Sesame Street on PBS kids. His face lights up whenever he hears the theme song and he starts dancing and clapping. Favorite books: World of Eric Carle: Around the Farm and Animal Babies sound books. He loves to listen to and learn the sounds the animals make. Favorite snacks: Apples, Goldfish and cereal puffs

Fun fact: Maejor is participating in the Metro Library’s 1,000 Books before Kindergarten program and so far has “read” more than 200 books! Favorite activities: Maejor loves to give hugs, high fives and fist bumps to everyone he meets. He is into helping with housework like sweeping, mopping and laundry. He’s learning to play soccer in a non-competitive league. Current obsession: His toy leaf blower! He loves to mimic the sound of an actual leaf blower and safely help his dad in the yard. Favorite metro hangouts: Church, the library, walks in the neighborhood, visiting local parks and the OKC Zoo

July 6-9 & July 20-23

Enjoy the fun of Kids Fest — at home!

Our annual Kids Fest is the premier event to find all the #okcfamilyfun the metro has to offer. Though we had to postpone our in-person Kids Fest expo (rescheduled date to be announced soon!), you can join our FREE virtual Kids Fest to meet our locally-owned vendor businesses, enjoy exclusive discounts and check out at-home family fun ideas. To join the fun, visit metrofamilymagazine.com/ virtual-kids-fest.

Offering a great selection of PS-12 classes. View your choices and register online at summeratccs.com Note: Dates for sports camps may vary.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 7

Protecting Your Family’s Mental Wellness DURING A HEALTH PANDEMIC BY ERIN PAGE

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bodies,” said Stacey Johnson, licensed professional counselor in private practice at The Purple Couch and owner of Studio 7. “Speak with grounding words, eliminate anxiety language and hold anxious expressions for behind closed doors.” Help your child feel calm by using a gentle voice, offering reassuring hugs and talking to them about what you are doing to keep them and others safe, advises Morgan Lankford-Gordon, licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist. Use understanding and supportive language, like “I’m here for you” and “How can I help?” Create a calm-down or relaxing area in your home together, suggests Lankford-Gordon. Include items like pillows, blankets, coloring books, books to read, fidget toys or stuffed animals. Ask questions first. Eddie Withers, epidemiologist for the OKC- County Health Department, says even if your kids aren’t asking about the coronavirus it’s important to initiate conversations. Rather than providing information first, Lankford-Gordon suggests asking open-ended questions. “Let them tell you what they have heard and give ample opportunity to ask questions,” said Lankford-Gordon. Instead of leading questions like “Are you scared about getting sick?” or “Are you worried?” try more general options that give you a pulse on their feelings, like “Tell me something that helped you feel happy (or made you feel sad, worried, etc.) today.”

As the world comes to grips with the ramifications of the coronavirus, anxiety, fear and uncertainty clutch many of our families, and our children. In my own household, tension crackles and tempers flare, even as we try our best to operate from compassion. This is a hard time to be a parent, dealing with an unprecedented-in-our-lifetimes pandemic whose full impact we don’t yet comprehend. Local experts agree one of the most important things for parents to prioritize during any time of great uncertainty is our families’ mental health. Follow these 10 tips from local experts to protect and stabilize your kids and yourselves: Cultivate calm. How parents handle uncertainty and fear greatly impacts how children will handle them, too, says Heather Warfield, licensed marriage and family therapist and programs director for Calm Waters Center for Children and Families. First, be aware of your own reactions and take time alone or with other adults to process your feelings. “Our words, facial expressions, tones and language will send [our children] the message of how they should feel in their little 1

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Be honest. Give your kids the facts, especially because they may have heard wildly inaccurate rumors, and explain the importance of getting information from trusted sources like county departments of health or the CDC. Give kids actionable tips on keeping your family healthy, like frequent hand washing, disinfecting often-touched surfaces and avoiding touching their faces. With her kids and her patients, Dr. Erica Faulconer, pediatrician with Northwest Pediatrics, says there is a fine line between being cautious and preventative and inciting fear. Honesty is the best policy but Faulconer says it’s all in how you frame the information. For example, instead of explaining that you’re being cautious because you don’t want to risk grandparents getting so sick they have to go to the hospital, say you are helping to keep grandparents healthy because they are at a higher risk. Johnson echoes that it’s important to explain necessary social distancing and quarantine with positive perspective, using words like help, protection and safety versus scared, panic and crisis.

Acknowledge emotions. Thai-An Truong, licensed professional counselor in private practice, says we are often taught to distract ourselves or our kids from our anxiety. Instead of telling your kids, or yourself, not to worry or that everything will be just fine, honor those feelings and try to understand them. To a degree, anxiety can benefit you and reveal positive character traits. “For example, anxiety keeps me cautious and alert, it drives me to protect myself and my children’s health and safety, it keeps me proactive, drives me to problem solve and shows I really love my children and value our quality of life,” said Truong. When kids’ questions or fears are silenced or aren’t honored, they tend to internalize their feelings and make up their own stories as answers, which can escalate their anxiety, says Warfield. On the flip side, when parents share and acknowledge their own worries, in a developmentally-appropriate manner, the child is validated. Warfield adds this is a perfect opportunity to talk through helpful coping mechanisms together. “Explain that mommy feels anxiety, too, sometimes, and when I am anxious I go for a walk,” said Warfield. Then ask: “Do you think that could help you? What works for you?”

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 9

Minimize media. Warfield says it’s imperative to control the amount of information we’re all receiving through the news or social media. “Kids could have information at their fingertips they don’t quite understand,” said Warfield. When children do see or hear information about the pandemic, use that as an opportunity for conversation. Stress examples of what your family and others in the community are doing to keep people safe. For adults, it’s important to recognize when media consumption goes beyond being informed to overindulgence, says Lankford-Gordon. “When we are stuck in a cycle of fear, it is hard to remain calm, problem solve and focus on what is within our control,” said Lankford-Gordon. Mindfulness matters. At Calm Waters, mindfulness means slowing down to become aware of what you are feeling in your body, says Warfield. Practicing deep breathing, meditating, imagining yourself in your favorite place or squeezing play dough, a stress ball or stuffed animal can all help in this process, advises Lankford-Gordon. “We do a lot of journaling and drawing about what makes us feel anxious and what makes us feel better,” said Warfield of children’s grief groups at Calm Waters. These activities can help express emotions that are difficult to talk about, allowing kids to re-frame, process and release feelings. Other tips to calm an anxious child include taking a cold drink of water or naming a category of something alphabetically (like animals: alligator, bear, cat, etc.), recommends Lankford-Gordon. Ask or assess if your child is tired, hungry or thirsty. Make sure your child is staying hydrated, well rested and has regular meals and snacks (that goes for adults, too!) “Meeting a child’s basic needs can help prevent or calm an anxious child or a challenging behavior,” said Lankford-Gordon. Move your body. Exercise is one of the most natural, and quickest, ways to reduce stress and anxiety, says Lankford-Gordon. Family dance parties, kid-friendly yoga (Lankford-Gordon recommends Cosmic Kids yoga on YouTube) and jumping jacks are easy options to employ throughout the day. “Make sure kids have the opportunity to get outside and get fresh air,” adds Warfield. Take a walk, go on a nature hunt, hop on bikes or create an outdoor obstacle course to let loose and have fun. Establish routine. An extended period out of school and drastic changes in kids’ routines can lead to feelings of insecurity. Creating a routine, even if it’s different than usual, can help kids maintain a sense of normalcy and predictability. Take time together to talk through your family’s current routine. Create a poster with a schedule kids can depend on with activities they can look forward to, even if you just include two or three items a day, recommends Johnson. Rather than a rigid system, Lankford-Gordon suggests a “rhythm” mentality, which can be flexible but also predictable for a child. “When a child feels worried or anxious, sticking to what they know can create a sense of calm in what they may feel is chaotic,” said Lankford-Gordon. “Stick to regular mealtimes and bedtimes and other routines such as reading before bed.”

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Prioritize play. Big feelings often manifest themselves physically, like stomach or headaches, but kids don’t always have the insight or communication tools to convey those issues like adults do, says Warfield. Because of difficulty verbalizing feelings, opportunities to play together are critical. And adults need a break from the everyday, too. “If you join them through play, you’ll learn a lot about them and connect while doing it,” said Lankford-Gordon. Take time to be silly, play games and create art. Prioritize simply being with one another. “They are more concerned about what is happening in their home than what’s happening in the world,” said Johnson. “Being fully present as much as possible will alleviate anxiety.”

Get grateful. Cultivating gratitude is powerful for kids and adults alike, an opportunity to reduce stress and anxiety and keep things in perspective. Lankford-Gordon suggests coming up with something you are grateful for together every day. “You can make these a visual reminder and post them on a wall or window,” said Lankford-Gordon. “Cut out hearts, use Post-it notes, use whatever you have and have fun with it!” Make space for hugs and infuse family time with positivity and perspective.

“Embrace conversation filled with the ways this time will bring us closer as a family and provide space for us to try new things, create, rest, play, eat and explore the world from our homes together,” said Johnson. We’re not going to be perfect and neither are our kids. Offer grace (to yourself and your kids), ask for forgiveness and refocus on kindness and compassion as often as needed. Above all else, Lankford-Gordon says just keep talking.

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DEBBI PLANTS LETTUCE WITH GRANDKIDS WESTON, ADDIE AND HUTCH.

Gardening Grammie Planting the seeds for a lifelong love with

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. They instinctively mimic our activities and interests and learn best by doing. If I am holding a shovel or rake, I can be confident my grandchild will want to (or insist upon!) use the same tool. What child doesn’t like to command a garden hose, shovel or trowel?! Little hands don’t always scatter seeds or gently handle plants they way we’d like; however, in gardening with children, we acknowledge the journey is more important than the destination, a lesson I’ve learned in spades with my own three wild and wonderful grandkids.

In this time of slowing down, staying home and spending extra time with our families, gardening can bring much- needed fresh air, movement and learning to our children.

BY DEBBI MARSHALL . PHOTOS BY ERIN PAGE .

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CHILDREN ARE OFTEN MORE WILLING TO TRY VEGETABLES THEY’VE GROWN THEMSELVES.

planting seeds, with some of my favorite easy-to-grow flowers from seeds including sunflowers, nasturtiums, cosmos, zinnias and coreopsis, but planting established plants like leaf lettuce or cherry tomatoes yields faster results. Gear gardening toward any age With the goal being to present gardening as a fun, rewarding activity, it’s never too early, or too late! Children as young as 2 or 3 enjoy digging, scattering seeds or placing plants in the holes and watering. Young elementary- age kids can learn about the parts of the plant and their growth requirements. Older children may want to research plant types and design a flower bed. All ages benefit from learning about their environment and Begin with a short-term activity like a small flower bed or large pot you’d like to spruce up with seasonal flowers. Invite your child to join you in a planting project. Research which plants will work in your pot or garden of choice, depending on whether it receives mostly sun or mostly shade, and let your children help you choose. Pansies are inexpensive early-spring show stoppers for sunny Oklahoma gardens or pots. Zinnias are heat and drought tolerant, will bloom all summer and make excellent cut flowers for bouquets to bring indoors. Some of my other Oklahoma favorites include snapdragons and marigolds. the cycle of life. Get started!

The benefits to children Aside from the one-on-one attention a child enjoys with mom or dad, an outdoor gardening experience offers fresh air, sunshine and physical activity. Gardening tasks such as digging, raking, sowing seeds and watering involve large and fine motor skills. Opportunities for sensory stimulation include the obvious—the odors of soil and mulch, the pungent scent of herbs like basil and rosemary and the sweet fragrance of lavender or pansies. The velvety lamb’s ear, which I call a “friendly” plant, offers interesting textures, while holly bushes have prickly edges. Delighted squeals will alert you to the earthworms and other garden critters children discover. I have been surprised by how easily even young children remember the names of plants, with lamb’s ear being one even my littlest grandson can point out when we are out and about. Planting and harvesting vegetables introduces children to cause and effect and provides a sense of importance and accomplishment. Set yourself up for success When it comes to gardening with children, choose plants with short germination cycles, less likely to test the patience of little ones who have a hard time waiting to see results. I recommend flowers like sunflowers and nasturtiums and reliable vegetables like leaf lettuce, radishes, beans and peas. Children learn the plant life cycle best by

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 13

Most children will enjoy a few minutes of digging holes and transferring purchased plants. Watering the plants (and sometimes each other) is typically my grandkids’ favorite part. An empty plastic milk carton makes a perfect lightweight watering container for children. If you are wearing garden gloves, surprise your child with small gloves. Offer lots of positive reinforcement along the way. If you want to try vegetable gardening, start in a sunny spot inside with bean seeds or seedlings like cherry tomatoes in early spring and transfer outside when the danger of frost is past, with the last average date of frost in Oklahoma being March 30. Giving your little one his or her own gardening space by designating an area of a raised bed or providing a pot reinforces the importance of the mission. Planting, harvesting and preparing the carrots they have grown, even if they don’t typically like vegetables, provides a sense of satisfaction in completing the task. You may be surprised how willing children are to eat vegetables they’ve grown themselves!

PLANTING ESTABLISHED PLANTS LIKE LEAF LETTUCE YIELDS FAST RESULTS FOR LITTLE ONES.

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with a dandelion? Our tiny artists love to create beauty and share their creations with us, one of their precious ways of saying “I love you.” Editor’s note: This is the first in a three-part series exploring the world of gardening with children. Debbi Marshall is a master gardener, retired U.S. probation officer and Grammie to three rambunctious pint-sized gardeners.

Growing little gardeners For ongoing care of your garden, partner with your child in the mundane by pulling weeds, watering and tending to your child’s plants together. The novelty of gardening can quickly fade if the chores become drudgery, so allow plenty of time for catching frogs, watching wiggling earthworms and making mud pies. Especially for budding scientists or naturalists, composting (decayed organic material used to improve soil) can be a fun, educational activity for the whole family. At age 7, my granddaughter became intrigued with starting a compost bin. She learned which kitchen scraps are appropriate for composting and helped collect them. And even her youngest brother delighted in tossing egg shells, fruit and veggie scraps and coffee grounds into the composting bin. Keeping the compost wet provides yet another excuse to turn on the water hose! The transformation of kitchen and garden scraps into rich, “black gold” soil is magical. Even yard maintenance can be intriguing. My grandchildren especially enjoy planting fescue grass seed with me. They liked what I called “roughing up” the existing soil with a rake, scattering the fescue seeds and sprinkling the seeds with water. A few weeks later, we all celebrated when fine blades of bright green grass began to appear. Finally, enjoy the beauty you’ve created together. Children delight in picking flowers, even occasionally flowers we don’t want them to pick! How often have the little ones in your life proudly presented you

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 15

Q&A with a Doc: The Dangers of E-Cigarettes

To help teach children about the dangers of smoking and using products like e-cigarettes, BCBSOK initiated the Be Smart-Don’t Start Anti-Tobacco program in 2004, impacting thousands of Oklahoma students each year. The program features kid-friendly mascot Blaze, the Braggin’ Blue Dragon, a smokeless dragon who makes healthy choices. To help parents understand the dangers of e-cigarette use, Todd Hoffman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, answered a few questions.

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are a growing trend among youth, with recent news of severe lung injury tied to e-cigarettes there are still concerns and questions about the long-term health risks of using such products. Tobacco Stops with Me, a Program from TSET estimates approximately 1,500 children under the age of 18 will become new smokers each year, and kids report using e-cigarettes as early as 12 years old.

down with Pneumonia more often than usual then that could be a sign. Research found nicotine exposure can cause inflammation of the lungs, and bacteria build up in the lungs causing infection. Secondly, vaping can dry out the nasal passageway causing nosebleeds. Lastly, if you find your child is thirsty all the time, vaping can cause you to lose moisture of your mouth and throat. Additionally, when the mouth is dry it loses some flavor awareness. If you see your child also adding more than normal spices or salt to their meals it can be a sign as well. This is call ‘Vaper’s Tongue.’ Look for odd behavior and keep up-to-date on the latest vaping products. 4. Last year, Congress passed legislation prohibiting the sale of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars and tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21. Right now, Oklahoma law’s minimum age to buy tobacco products is 18. Under Senate Bill 1423, the age would raise to 21 to match the federal law. How do you think this will change the vaping industry and overall health for young Oklahomans? If raising the minimum age stops even just a handful of kids from starting e-cigarettes and using tobacco products, then it’s doing its job. 5. What can we do today to help prevent young people from using e-cigarettes, vaping and tobacco products? Talk to your child and give them the tools and facts needed to help them make the right choices. Look for signs if there are concerns.

1. From a physician’s perspective, what are the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes? E-cigarettes are still fairly new, and we are still learning about their long-term health effects. Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, but e-cigarette aerosol can contain substanc- es that are harmful to the lungs as well. This includes cancer-causing chemicals and tiny particles that can reach deep into lungs. This may result in chronic lung diseases like bron- chitis, asthma and more. 2. What are the common misconceptions about e-cigarettes? E-cigarettes use a battery to heat up special liquids into an aerosol that users inhale. It’s not just harmless water vapor. The e-juice that fills the cartridge contains a chemical called propylene glycol, used as antifreeze. This is going through your lungs and can cause irritation. Vaping is not safer than cigarettes. According to the CDC, e-cigarette aerosol often contains fewer toxic chemicals than regular cigarettes, but can contain harmful substances, including nicotine, heavy metals like lead, volatile organic compounds, and cancer-causing agents. 3. As of January 2020, there have been 2,711 hospitalized cases reported due to severe lung injury associated with e-cigarette products from all 50 states according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. What warning signs can parents look for if they suspect their child is vaping? There are a few signs to look for. If your child is healthy, and suddenly begins coming

Todd Hoffman, M.D. Chief Medical Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma is proud to present the Be Smart-Don’t Start Anti- tobacco program once again. Children and their parents are invited to learn about the dangers of tobacco products at the 16th annual Be Smart- Don’t Start Anti-Tobacco Day on Thursday, May 7 at Science Museum Oklahoma in Oklahoma City. Admission to the museum is free the day of the event courtesy of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma. Learn more by visiting bcbsok.com.

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Conquer Cabin Fever! With families shifting from a mentality of “Let’s go!” to “Let’s stay in,” both boredom and bickering can quickly set in. Take heart! Enjoy these 7 at-home activities for family fun.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 17

New & Now

BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED. Summer Camps

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Outdoor experiences for kids with autism

autism. With a philosophy of “challenge by choice,” CANOE campers are exposed to and encouraged to try all the same camp activities as traditional campers, from the zip line and rock wall to archery and fishing. “Everyone comes away on top of the world, including our staff, to see the transformation happening in these kids doing things they never thought they could do,” said Jennifer Gradnigo, director of marketing and develop- ment for Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma. The grant monies will allow Camp CANOE to expand the number of children it serves this year and implement a new program within Camp DaKaNi for high-functioning children with autism to receive a social inclusion buddy for the week at summer camp. Parents can choose the option that best suits their child. For more information, visit campfirehok.org . Extreme fun for a good cause Honey Lee Ranch near Jones has long been appreciated for trail rides and birthday party fun. But this summer, the ranch will kick things to the extreme with two new camp experiences, designed to immerse kids in the outdoors, hone new skills and teach them about giving back. At Extreme Animal Camp , students ages 8 and up will meet domestic animals like pigs, horses and chickens at the farm and contrast them with exotic creatures from Extreme Animals, like lemurs, a sloth and a kangaroo. In an outdoor classroom, campers will learn about animals habitats, behaviors and care, as well as humans’ impact on them, for better and worse, and practice creative and persuasive writing skills. The kids will also learn about and connect with similar-aged students in South Africa from the DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage, to which a portion of summer camp proceeds will be donated to continue the organization’s mission to educate and inspire children to care for their environment. Extreme Laser Tag Camp gives enthusiasts the opportunity to act out video game

Camp DaKaNi is a well-known institution in the realm of Oklahoma City summer camps, having operated for 60 years in its current location. But nearly a decade ago, local parents began asking Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma, the parent organization of DaKaNi, for an outdoor summer camp experience for children with autism. Camp CANOE (Children with Autism Need Outdoor Experiences) was born eight years ago and this year received a $10,000 grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and a $10,000 grant from the national Camp Fire organization to continue to expand the camp’s services. Held the week of Memorial Day each year, Camp CANOE is limited to 30 campers, and staff is well versed in serving children at all levels of the spectrum. Each camper receives his or her own counselor, who have been trained in working with children with

CAMP CADENCE

scenarios in the outdoors. From discussing military strategy and tactics to building a fort and establishing a base, kids will learn teamwork skills and self-confidence. Every day will bring exciting new challenges. Campers will also learn about Game Rangers International in Zambia, Africa, an environmental nonprofit organization empowering, hiring and training local rangers to protect wildlife from poachers, using many of the same strategies campers will learn during the week. A portion of summer camp proceeds will be donated to GRI - Zambia. Find out more at honeyleeranchextremecamp.com. Pony up Cadence Equestrian Center offers the state’s largest summer horseback riding camp for kids of any (or no) riding experience. At Camp Cadence campers ages 5 to 16 experience a real working horse ranch, receive both indoor and outdoor riding instruction and learn horsemanship skills like grooming, tacking and safety. Individualized horseback riding lessons, bareback rides, trail rides and games on horseback make for a week full of educational fun. “Horses are remarkable at boosting self- confidence, independence and discipline,” said Christy Buchanan, camp director. “We love to see the amazing transformations in the campers’ self-confidence after spending a week at Camp Cadence.” Weekly opportunities for full- and half-day camps are available from June through early August. A limited number of campers each week ensures personalized instruction. Visit cadenceequestrian.com/camps for more information.

CAMP DAKANI’S CAMP CANOE

18 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020

Easter Egg Hunt Challenge #1 Sponsored by New Covenant UMC

CLICK HERE TO FIND INSTRUCTIONS FOR AN EASY ART PROJECT. PARTICIPATE & YOU COULD WIN AN OKC ZOO MEMBERSHIP! www.metrofamilymagazine.com/easter-art

STAY SAFE Oklahoma!

Chinese Summer Camp

Explore Chinese culture, language and so much more through two unique camps at OU Confucius Institute. 1st - 6th Grade Students (No Chinese background required) Camp 1: June 8 - 26, 2020, 9 AM - 3 PM Camp 2: July 13 - 31, 2020 9 AM - 3 PM Sign up for one, two or all three weeks of each camp. Before and after care available for additional fee. Register at oucisummercamp@ou.edu or 405-325-6895

We hope to see you soon!

- 18 Hole Golf Course - Disc Golf - Scenic Ft. Reno - Historic Downtown

ou.edu/cas/ouci/learners/summer-camp-programs OU Confucius Institute 1821 E Imho Rd / Norman, OK

Only a short drive west from the metro. Close to you, far from ordinary!

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 19

LOCAL FAMILY FUN

BEST PARKS FOR TWEENS & TEENS

BY LINDSAY CUOMO . PHOTOS PROVIDED. ADVENTURE GUIDE Outdoor Urban

As your kids grow, you might be thinking your days at the park are behind you. Think again! The Oklahoma City metro is blossoming with new park features and community spaces designed especially to help tweens, teens and adults enjoy active fun. As we wait for the all-clear to get out and experience OKC attractions once more, add these newest adventures to your family’s spring bucket list. Editor’s note regarding COVID-19 pandemic: Please follow the City of Oklahoma City guidelines regarding social distancing and/or quarantine. As of publication, Oklahoma City is under a “shelter in place” order. Among other requirements, playgrounds and city-owned sports courts are closed until at least April 16. Double check with parks to determine if and when they can safely reopen.

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20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020

WHAT IS FUTSAL? Futsal is a variant of soccer played on a smaller, fenced court, usually on a hard, low-maintenance surface. This fast-paced, freestyle soccer game is played by teams of five instead of the traditional 11-on-11.

Energy Assist Futsal Courts Various locations

Futsal courts have been popping up all over the metro as part of an initiative championed by Energy Assist Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the OKC Energy FC, in partnership with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Fields & Futures, OG&E and 7-11. Organizers have opened 14 courts so far, many at Oklahoma City public middle schools, and there are plans to add 10 more. In addition to the courts, Energy Assist is organizing Soccer for Success programming, which will help students in Title 1 schools with equipment needs and character and skill building. Students can attend camps and play alongside OKC Energy players. Courts are open to the public. Hours vary by location.

To find a futsal court near you, visit metrofamilymagazine.com/futsal.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 21

TOGETHER SQUARE IN OKC

Sheridan Ave between Hudson & Walker Ave Together Square, an Energy Assist project, was built through a partnership with OG&E and Team Griffin Foundation in an effort to provide more green space downtown. The project was recently awarded the 2020 Community Spirit Award from OKC Beautiful. Adjacent to Myriad Gardens, the side-by-side basketball and futsal courts are open for public use daily between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. The Myriad Gardens Foundation coordinates reservations and rentals of the grounds for private events, and organizers host workshops and other special events throughout the year. To learn more, visit myriadgardens.org/togethersquare. Nearby, another community basketball court sits at the southwest corner of Hudson and Reno Avenues. The court is home to The Cage basketball league and is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.

Dream Court at Parmele Park 1308 N Janeway Ave, Moore

The Moore community celebrated the opening of a Dream Court this past fall in grand fashion with country music star and Moore resident Toby Keith and Nancy Lieberman in attendance. A basketball hall of famer and friend of Keith, Lieberman has helped build 86 Dream Courts across the nation to further the mission of providing kids a place to play. The Moore project is her foundation’s latest contribution. Families can challenge each other to a game of hoops on the high-performance, college-size court during regular park hours.

Creekside Bike Park 2217 E Lindsey St, Norman Creekside Bike Park opened in September 2019 in response to residents’ requests for a close-to- home option to make the sport more accessible to kids. The 12-acre park was designed to offer families a progressive way to test their bike skills on features ranging from basic to advanced, including hills, a drop zone, jump line, a technical skills area and children’s biking playground.

Midtown Bocce Ball Courts NW 9th St & Hudson Ave An unused parking lot turned community gathering space, the Midtown Bocce Ball courts offer residents and visitors an active hangout. The two full-size courts are open year round and are free to use. Organizers have provided all the supplies needed for a friendly game, including an eye-catching mural detailing the rules of the game, an especially nice feature for beginners.

22 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020

EVEN MORE URBAN ADVENTURES — OTHER PARKS — • Wheeler Park Ferris Wheel &

— DISC GOLF — • Arcadia Lake Spring Creek Park , 7200 E 15th St, Edmond • Choctaw Creek Park , 2001 N Harper Rd, Choctaw • Colonial Estates , 1641 E Lindsey St, Norman • Dolese Youth Park , 5301 NW 50th St • Kiwanis Park , 1101 S Midwest Blvd, Midwest City • Mitch Park — Tye F. Cunningham Course , 1503 W Covell Rd, Edmond • Northeast Lions Park , 1800 Northcliff Ave, Norman • Wild Horse Park , 1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang • Will Rogers Park , 3400 NW 36th St Find more at metrofamilymagazine.com/ disc-golf-courses-in-the-metro.

Riverfront Plaza , 1701 S Western Ave • Perle Mesta Park , 1900 N Shartel Ave • Oklahoma River Trails , access at 15th St and Portland Ave — SKATE PARKS — • Mat Hoffman Action Sports Park , 1700 S Robinson Ave • Route 66 Skate Park , 9901 NW 23rd St • Moore Skatepark , 1903 NE 12th St, Moore • Mid-America Kiwanis Skatepark , Cambridge Dr, Midwest City • Mathis Skate Park , 1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond Find more at metrofamilymagazine.com/ skate-parks-in-the-metro.

Kerr Park 123 Robert S Kerr Ave Kerr Park underwent two recent

renovations adding art pieces, a pavilion and a ping pong table. Designed to act as a backyard space for downtown residents, Kerr Park is a popular destination for photographers as well. The city provides paddles and balls for visitors’ use, and there is plenty of space for a round of bocce ball or Frisbee on the spacious lawn.

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JASMINE MORAN Children’s Museum Where children play to learn… and adults learn to play

Easter Egg Hunt Challenge #2 Sponsored by St. Crispin's Summer Camp

CLICK HERE TO FIND INSTRUCTIONS FOR A FUN, EASY "S'MORES" RECIPE CHALLENGE. PARTICIPATE & YOU COULD WIN A ST. CRISPIN'S BACKPACK AND WATER BOTTLE www.metrofamilymagazine.com/smores-recipe

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 23

Be prepared What parents need to know about dental emergencies For more information on how Dental Depot is treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic please visit: dentaldepot.net/covid-19/

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How do I know what constitutes a dental emergency for my child? The best way for parents to educate themselves on dental emergencies is to establish an early and consistent relationship with your child’s dentist. This helps your child view the dental office as a safe, friendly environment and gives your dentist the opportunity to set a health baseline for your child. Schedule your child’s first dental visit between the eruption of their first tooth and their first birthday. As your child begins to have regular dental cleanings, usually around age 3, and x-rays, typically at age 5, the relationship with a hygienist provides another opportunity to discuss oral health and what to do in a dental emergency. What do I do if my child chips, cracks or breaks a tooth? First, rinse the child’s mouth out with cool water and offer a cold compress to reduce any swelling. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment; in the meantime, if your child broke a piece of the tooth off, find and

save it to take to their dental appointment. Depending on the damage, the dentist may be able to put the tooth back together or shape the remaining tooth to be more comfortable. Is it true that if my child loses a permanent tooth I should place it in milk while awaiting an appointment? If your child knocks out a permanent tooth, first try to replant the tooth in the gums very gently. Only touch the tooth by the crown – the part you see above the gums – and never touch the delicate roots of a tooth. If you are able to replant the tooth, give your child gauze or a washcloth to gently bite down on to keep it in place until you arrive at the dental office. If the tooth can’t be replanted, then yes, placing it in cold milk or a Save-a-Tooth container (available online and a must- have for your family’s first aid kit) can help keep the tooth viable for replantation. It’s imperative in this situation to get to your dentist quickly; ideally, a tooth needs to be replanted within half an hour.

Parenting comes with a lot of firsts: first steps, first words, first tooth. One first parents prefer to evade — the dreaded dental emergency — is unfortunately fairly commonplace. In fact, the Center for Health and Health Care in Schools reports an average of 51 million school hours are missed each year for dental-related injuries. You can’t catch your child every time they fall, but you can be prepared when it happens. The experts at Dental Depot answer common parent questions about how to handle dental emergencies.

24 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020

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