MetroFamily Magazine. OKC Family Fun & Resources. Local events calendar.
JAN/FEB 2022
Trending in Education
Creative arts opportunities
Taking a Gap Year
TIPS for international travel with kids
Teacher burnout & how the community can help
Their first years. Our first priority. A child’s natural curiosity is boundless. By nurturing that with a thoughtful balance of play and structure, we spark lightbulb moments every day. Learn how our approach inspires a lifelong love of discovery.
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We’ve Missed You!
Starting February 1, we’ll be back to full-service status, and we want to see you at our programs and events in our libraries (for ages five and up; indoor programs may have a limited number of participants). And meeting rooms? They’re ready and waiting for you too! Our computers will be back to normal usage and the kids toys and interactives will be out and ready for some play. You may have noticed that we are back to our regular hours, but our curbside options are here to stay! Visit metrolibrary.org for more updates.
42 TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY WITH KIDS Features 10 2022 Cover Kids Meet the winners of our annual search 20 Annual Education Guide Discover academic & enrichment opportunities in OKC 32 Teacher Burnout The realities facing educators and how the community can help 52 What is a Gap Year? Options for experiential learning before or after college 56 Talking to Kids About Sex
Departments 12 Family Mental Wellness
62 Last Look
Strategies to boost well-being in the new year
Students share statewide mental health needs for 2022
14 Real Dads of the Metro
Quintin Hughes on balancing work and family
On the Cover Creative Arts Opportunities page 38 Taking a Gap Year page 52 Tips for International Travel with Kids page 42 Teacher Burnout & How the Community Can Help page 32 Annual Education Guide page 20
16 Calendar of Events
Indoor and outdoor cold-weather family fun
38 New & Now
Arts education, diversity teacher pipelines benefit students 42 Exploring Beyond Oklahoma Top tips for traveling internationally with kids 48 Local Family Fun The best in metro STEAM programs
Resources and conversation starters for parents of tweens
58 Social Media Smarts
4 tips to keep kids safe & healthy online
4 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2022
2021
2021
2021
2021
The beginning of a new year for me has always signaled the promise of new possibilities, fresh ideas and hope for a bright future. As the team at MetroFamily began preparing for this issue, our Annual Education Guide, one reality kept permeating our thoughts: our public school educators and support staff are tired, overwhelmed and burned out. The individuals we’re so fortunate to have teaching and leading our children are wildly capable. But circumstances, often outside their control, including the pandemic, a statewide teacher shortage and a lack of substitutes, have made it nearly impossible for many of our educators to hold on to their joy. As we move into this new year with our personal resolutions or goals, I hope you’ll join me in also resolving to regularly thank and encourage the teachers in your life. While I’ll admit that an encouraging note or small gift card bestowed on educators feels to me a bit like throwing a cup of water on a blazing
inferno right now, those I’ve spoken with in the profession assure me that those small gestures go a long way in restoring joy. And I’d also ask that you take a look at what educators and community leaders around the state have to say about our responsibilities to band together as a community to provide support in grander ways on page 32. Thank you teachers, administrators and staff for the life-changing work you do each and every day. May the rest of us resolve to come alongside you in ways both big and small so that, together, we can build a brighter future for our children.
Publisher Sarah Taylor Managing Editor Erin Page Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo Contributing Writers
Kristy Blosch, April Deocariza, Michael Dickerson, Lance Evans, Emily Fischer, Brittany Keck Contributing Photographer Bridget Pipkin Art Director Stacy Noakes Senior Project Manager Kirsten Holder Director of Events Casey Shupe Editorial Assistant Emiley Bainbridge Account Executives Dana Price Laura Beam Contact us Mailing address: 6608 N. Western Ave., #458 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Phone: 405-601-2081 tips@metrofamilymagazine.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com
With hope,
Erin Page Managing Editor
On the Cover Ethan is the winner of MetroFamily’s 2022 Cover Kids Search for ages 10-12! He attends Classen School of Advanced Studies, where he was elected vice president of student council for the 5th grade student body. Ethan is the son of Nikesia, and they enjoy trips to the Oklahoma City National Memorial, Myriad Gardens and Science Museum Oklahoma. Ethan is extremely creative, loves to draw and hopes to design his own lines of shoes and clothing one day. Special thanks to Oklahoma Contemporary for matching this forward-thinking tween’s innovative energy with a perfect venue for his photoshoot. Find out more about Oklahoma Contemporary’s current exhibits on page 39. The artwork featured on the cover is LA_129 by Invader, on view in Open World .
MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2021 by MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. 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.
Proud member of
ETHAN IS STANDING IN FRONT OF ADAPT BY RHIANA DECK AT OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY.
Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Moore Chamber of Commerce
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2022 5
OFF THE PAGES
Join us March 12
Scouts can earn badges for their participation in the event. The event is sponsored by Boeing, presenting sponsor; Google, Continental Resources, Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas, community sponsors; Pelco and Chesapeake, supporting sponsors; Francis Tuttle, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma College of Nursing, Oklahoma State University College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology and Extreme Animals, STEAM partners. Purchase tickets at metrofamilymagazine.com/ geekapalooza . Tickets are $8 for kids and $5 for adults in advance or $10 for kids and $5 for adults at the door. Check out many of the local businesses and organizations providing activities at Geekapalooza in our STEAM Guide on page 48.
A STEAM Festival for Kids! We can’t wait to see your family at Geekapalooza! Join us Saturday, March 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Camp Trivera, the new STEAM-focused urban camp of our partner Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma. Enjoy a full day of kid-friendly activities on subjects like robotics, coding and geosciences, plus live music, food trucks, great prizes and a Geek photo contest. Geekapalooza is an annual program of Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma and MetroFamily, and Girl
If you are looking for local private schools, charter schools, online schools, preschool programs, field trip opportunities, tutors or educational enrichment opportunities, we’ve got a guide for that! Find our searchable Education Guide , updated throughout the year, at metrofamilymagazine.com/ education. Use our Searchable... Education Guide
Enter your baby’s photo for a chance to WIN! So much “squish” to love! No wonder parents can’t get enough of taking pics of their adorable new babies. That’s why MetroFamily is meeting new parents exactly where they are—at home and on Instagram—with our NEW Baby of the Month Contest! Parents can enter babies ages 0 to 24 months by submitting photos on MetroFamily’s website or on Instagram by using the hashtag #cutestbabyokc and tagging @metrofamilyokc in their posts. The 10 chosen winners will be announced online, on social media and in each issue of the magazine throughout the year. Find out more and enter your baby’s photo today at metrofamilymagazine.com/contests .
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Our annual Awesome Moms Contest is coming up Jan. 10 through Feb. 28, and we want to hear about the inspirational moms, grandmas, teachers, mentors and other mother figures in your life. Your nominee will be eligible to win fantastic prizes, including a staycation weekend, restaurant gift cards and goodie packages like Vellabox candles, L’OCCITANE en Provence products, jewelry and other accessories! NOMINATE your favorite Awesome Mom!
2021 AWESOME MOM JESSICA GANTHER WITH SON MICHAEL JR. PHOTO BY HUNTER CONOVER.
The winner and two finalists will be featured in an upcoming issue of MetroFamily. Starting Jan. 10, submit your written nomination of 250 words or less and a photo of your nominee at metrofamilymagazine.com/contests. Nominations must be received by Feb. 28.
GAME OVER FEB. 21
11 NW 11th St., Oklahoma City | @okcontemporary
Open World: Video Games & Contemporary Art is organized by the Akron Art Museum and supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, The Tom and Marilyn Merryweather Fund and National Endowment for the Arts. Installation view of Feng Mengbo’s Long March: Restart (detail), 2008.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2022 7
THE (MODERN) ART OF
To help parents navigate today’s challenges, MetroFamily is excited to announce our first FREE virtual conference, The (Modern) Art of Parenting. Nationally-known parenting experts will provide 20 sessions on subjects such as how to balance technology with positive child development and how to raise resilient kids. All presentations will feature practical and positive tips you can implement now to help with both the everyday and weighty challenges of parenting. The summit will be held online April 1-8 , and each presentation will be available for FREE over two days. Other paid options will provide the opportunity to watch and rewatch all sessions anytime over the next year as well as other perks. Find more information at modernartofparenting.com
B eing a parent is a gift, but it’s far from easy. We strive for joy-filled moments with our kids but also recognize the difficulties and nuances of our jobs as moms and dads. And because every child and every family situation is different, there often isn’t one “answer” to the parenting challenges. We struggle to know how hard to push, where to set limits and when to let kids learn on their own. Add in the more recent phenomena of a global pandemic, ubiquitous technology, distance learning, a changing society and more, and parenting can often feel overwhelming. Virtual Summit
Frugal family fun in OKC If your new year’s resolutions include sticking to a family budget, you can still enjoy plenty of #okcfamilyfun this winter. Check out our list of 50 Things to Do Under $5 at metrofamilymagazine.com/50-under-5- winter. Plus, don’t miss our monthly list of the top 10 FREE events for families in OKC at metrofamilymagazine.com/best-of-the-month. Find the metro’s best calendar of events at metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar.
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Get your tickets starting Feb. 3!
Join us Saturday, March 12 from 10 am to 3 pm for Geekapalooza , the best STEAM festival of the year! Hands-on projects, expo booths and ongoing workshops hosted by local leaders encourage kids to learn about STEAM topics (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) such as robotics, coding, geoscience, engineering, health sciences, art, music and more. Activities will be geared to children ages 4-14. Hosted by MetroFamily Magazine and Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, this year's event is being held at Camp Trivera , the Girl Scouts' state-of-the-art urban camp located at 2508 N.E. 50th St. (east of the OKC Zoo). Many activities will be held outdoors and masks will be required. Check web page for more details about COVID-19 safety protocols.
Advance ticket sales begin Feb. 3. $8 per child, $5 per adult
Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible! Presenting Sponsor
Community Partner Sponsors
Details & tickets at metrofamilymagazine.com/geekapalooza
− ANNOUNCING METROFAMILY’S − 2022 Cover Kid Winners!
The Oklahoma City metro is not short on kids with dazzling smiles, bright personalities and kind hearts! We loved meeting each and every child who participated in our 2022 Cover Kids Search contest. After the registration period, you, our readers and fans, voted on your favorite Cover Kid hopefuls in each category, selecting our top-voted finalists.
Each of the finalists was interviewed by a panel of local community leaders. Our thanks to Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, Langston University; Kylee Holland, Sisu Youth Services; Dora Evans, Sunbeam Family Services and Lance Evans, Variety Care, for serving on our panel interviews. Thank you to everyone who entered and voted!
Congratulations to MetroFamily’s 2022 Cover Kids!
Ages 4-5: Sergio Sergio attends Peace Preschool in Edmond where his teacher reports his favorite thing to talk about is his little sister, who calls Sergio her “superman.” Sergio began drawing when he was 2 and especially likes to sketch people. He loves to ride his scooter and bike, build with LEGOS and magnet blocks, sing, dance and swim. Compassionate and loquacious, he is quite the host and likes to makes sure his family and friends have their favorite things to eat and drink. Sergio is the son of Cheryl and Brian and big brother of Sierra, and together they love to play and learn at Science Museum Oklahoma. Ages 2-3: Katelyn Katelyn is an imaginative 2-year-old from Piedmont who loves to make up games to play with her family, tell jokes and hang out with her cat, Pretzel. She enjoys playing outside in the mud, visiting local playgrounds, fishing and attending gymnastics at Dynamo. Katelyn likes to get crafty and creative by coloring, painting and baking with her mom. She frequently requests to have her nails painted. Katelyn is the daughter of Tara and Benjamin and little sister of Bonnie and Leon. The family’s favorite places to visit in the metro are Scissortail Park and the OKC Zoo.
Ages 6-7: Sufyan Sufyan is in the first grade at Western Gateway School and he wants to be an astronaut and deliver babies when he grows up. He’s exceptional at running track, has competed at the state level and is one of the fastest 6 year olds in Oklahoma. Sufyan also enjoys playing t-ball and basketball as well as swimming and participating in gymnastics. He’s learning Arabic and Spanish and loves all things about dinosaurs and space. Sufyan is the son of Jihan and Masood and little brother of twins Ahmad and Ma’isah. The family’s favorite place to visit in OKC is Scissortail Park.
Ages 8-9: Nora In the second grade at Oakdale Schools, Nora is smart, kind and funny. She loves pretend cooking and playing with her babies. Nora enjoys being outdoors, playing tennis and baseball, riding scooters and biking on the Arcadia trail with her family of six. She and her three brothers are high-energy and love to wrestle, watch movies and have sleepovers. She’s a big fan of going to Chick- fil-A and visiting playgrounds around the metro. Nora rocks an extra chromosome, and her family says she is the hardest working person they know. She is the daughter of Jessica and Brian.
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Ages 10-12: Ethan Ethan attends Classen School of Advanced Studies, where he was elected vice president of student council for the 5th grade student body. He loves to play basketball and video games, beat his mom in Monopoly and visit his Nana in her nursing home. Extremely creative, Ethan enjoys drawing and hopes to one day design his own shoe and clothing brand and own a production company to give other kids a chance to explore their talents. Ethan is the son of Nikesia, and they enjoy trips to the Oklahoma City National Memorial, Myriad Gardens and Science Museum Oklahoma.
Siblings: Evyn & Eryn Twin sisters Evyn and Eryn have very different
Thank you to everyone who took part in our 2022 Cover Kids Search!
personalities but share a love of celebrating the individuality in the people around them. The homeschooled first graders are serious fashionistas and are quite adept at sketching designs and creating doll clothes out of everyday items. In 2020, the girls started a clothing company with the slogan “every child is beautiful.” The kindhearted sisters enjoy swimming lessons at Goldfish Swim School, gymnastics classes at Metro Gymnastics, playing outside and filming dance videos. They are the daughters of Jayla.
Watch for our next search starting in early August 2022.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2022 11
FAMILY MENTAL WELLNESS
Ways for Parents to Boost Well-being
BY MICHAEL DICKERSON
Earning more money. Going back to school. Starting a new career or business. Traveling, volunteering or exercising more. Regardless of your specific goals for 2022, a new year is a fine time to reevaluate priorities and reconnect with your aspirations. Although this is necessary for personal growth, sometimes we aim a little too high. Then, we inevitably lose steam and wind up in the same rut all over again. This is especially true for busy parents, whose lives revolve around raising kids. Starting a new exercise program is already daunting enough, but when you drive your daughter to and from soccer practice four nights a week, it becomes nearly impossible. The everyday grind takes a toll on our mental health, leaving many parents running on fumes. According to psychologist Abraham Maslow, all people have a desire for personal growth, but to achieve it, our basic needs must be met first. When we flourish as people, we flourish as parents. If our kids see us engaging in healthy, energizing activities, they’ll follow our lead. But how do we juggle it all? Start with these three tips! Form better habits. Goals are one component of personal growth, but they aren’t everything. In the book Atomic Habits , James Clear writes: “The quality of our lives often depends on our habits. With the same habits, you’ll end up with same results. But with better habits, anything is possible.” Forming better habits enables you to improve the areas of your life where you’re lacking. At the beginning of last year, I set a goal to exercise more and become healthier. I knew going to the gym was a struggle … but why? After some thought, I realized it was partially because I hated stumbling around to find my gym clothes early in the morning.
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After reading Atomic Habits , I began laying out my gym clothes before bed every night so I could wake up and leave for the gym in 10 minutes flat! Now, I do it without even thinking about it. Why? Because it’s become a habit — and now going to the gym is part of my lifestyle. Our small habits help us reach our big, long-term goals. Think about the specific small habits that can help you make your big 2022 goals a reality. Once you’ve mastered a few small habits, get your kids involved. As an added bonus: When they form better habits, you’ll have less on your plate at home!
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Build your resilience muscle. Every new year brings new difficulties and challenges. Your level of resilience determines how quickly you’ll bounce back from them. Positive psychologist Chris Peterson characterizes resilience as “struggling well,” whether in response to small stressors or major trauma. Your ability to move forward directly impacts your well-being. Research shows that resilience also improves problem-solving and moves people closer to achieving their goals — and the more you practice it, the more resilient you become. How do you increase your resilience? There are many approaches, including therapy, journaling, meditation, yoga, practicing self- compassion, getting support from loved ones, getting adequate exercise and sleep and paying attention to your nutrition, to name a few. Start with one or two resilience-building habits and build from there. When you face adversity with resilience, you’ll discover just how strong you truly are — and you’ll feel more confident and capable in the future. Additionally, resilience is contagious. Resilient parents raise resilient kids. Ready to boost your well-being in 2022? Take it one tip at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. Then move on to the next one. This practice may add one more thing to your full to-do list, but it will also leave you more energized for everything else on your plate — and help you flourish as both a parent and person.
Focus on your strengths. Many of us believe obsessing over our weaknesses will help us grow, but that’s a myth. We can only become average (at best) in our deficient areas. To actually improve your well-being, pay more attention to your strengths. That in turn will improve your self-esteem and build confidence — and your kids will follow in your footsteps. As a social worker, I helped clients recover from mental health crises by identifying their strengths. Over the years, it became clear that when people understand their strengths, they can flourish in all areas of their lives. If you’re unsure of your strengths, take an online assessment. The VIA 24 Character Strengths Assessment helps you tap into your innate values, priorities and strengths. To learn more about your unique skillset, try the Gallup StrengthsFinder. You’ll discover your areas of greatest potential so you can achieve your goals and perform your best at work. These two assessments complement each other and provide a strong foundation for enhancing your overall well-being.
Put on your Party Boots!
Looking for a unique, hassle-free party in the Wild West? All you need are gifts and a birthday cake — we take care of the rest! Put on your party boots and join the birthday fun at The Cowboy. For more information and to request a party date: nationalcowboymuseum.org/birthday-parties
1700 Northeast 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 nationalcowboymuseum.org/kids
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2022 13
REAL DADS OF THE METRO Quintin Hughes
BY LANCE EVANS . PHOTO BY TRACE THOMAS
GRAND ARCHITECT “He is a rascal,” Quintin Hughes said with a huge smile. Q—as he’s affectionately called by all those
Back to the beginning These concepts frame Q’s family structure. Like generations of Black men before him, Q stands alongside a powerful woman who is his partner in every sense of the word. He’s been married to his dream girl, Sasha Hughes, for five years. The Black love story went something like this: Girl walks into a bar. Girl completely enamors boy. Salutations are exchanged. Happily ever after begins. “I met her at Urban Roots in 2012,” Q remembers fondly. “I was an Urban Roots regular. I wanted to be there to absorb the culture. I was there to see [Oklahoma artist] Spencer Brown and I stuck around to see him perform. She pulled up. It turned out that Spencer is her cousin.” It all sounds like a fairytale, but none of it happened by chance. This was part of Q’s plan. He’s the grand architect behind his intricately designed life. The dream family—mom, dad and 2.5 kids—was the hope and desire of a young boy in search of a strong family unit. “My family was close growing up and we had a southern Black culture,” said Q about his upbringing. “I missed having a permanent male presence as a father in the house.” To understand Quintin as a family man requires traveling back to his humble beginnings in Little Rock, Ark. The son of a teacher, Q always valued the importance of family. His mom passed down her love of community: she never met a stranger and was a friend to all she encountered. Q makes a conscious effort to pass on the traits he learned from his beloved family matriarch. “I am intentional about how I show love,” said Q. “That’s something my mom passed down to me. A welcoming spirit [as well as] love and compassion for others.” Q says his intentions with Sasha were clear from day one. It was much more than love at first sight. Q longed for the same solid family nucleus that Sasha was already accustomed to.
who adore him—is about 30 minutes in to his interview for Real Dads . After speaking in detail on his parenting philosophy, Q is relaxed and at ease once the conversation finally shifts to the heart of the matter: his delight in his family. “My son’s name is Quintin Hughes Jr.,” Q said proudly with the same smile still lighting up his face. “He goes by QJ. He takes a lot after me with a whole lot more energy, charm and charisma. His mother’s beautiful so he’s a handsome young guy.” Q is the proud father of two amazing kids, 4-year-old QJ and his big sister, 11-year-old Nadia. QJ is an energetic preschooler and Nadia is slowly transitioning into her pre-teen years. Q says watching his bonus daughter grow into an affable tweenager has been an exciting process for the blended family. “Nadia is really smart,” said Q. “She’s 11 and in middle school. She’s basically a teenager, but she’s incrementally getting there.” The Hughes household is an operation. It’s a well-oiled machine where all members, including QJ and Nadia, move with purpose under guiding principles of love, family and responsibility. And it makes sense. Q is more than just a family man. He’s an entrepreneur who has used his success in corporate America as a blueprint for his home. He leads two successful business ventures in Oklahoma City: Kindred Spirits, a bar in Northeast OKC, and Northeast Renaissance Inc., an organization aimed at revitalizing Northeast OKC through ethical redevelopment. The lessons learned at work often find their way back to the Hughes household. “A lot about a household is just another operation,” said Q. “Why not apply the principles that create efficiencies? Why make it hard on yourself?”
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“My mom did an amazing job, but what happens when you have two people present to share attention, provide and offer guidance and resources?” said Q. “I’ve always wanted that for my family. I was always interested in people who had that life. My wife is West African. There is so much rich culture in her family. Her family is so big and close. Her nuclear family had two parents and looked like the American dream.” The value of fatherhood Nine years after their initial interaction, the Hughes are still piecing together their own version of that American dream. They’ve been happily married since 2016. Regardless of the external demands, Q makes small, intentional efforts to continue placing the home first. It’s a Wednesday evening and Q is preparing to meet with the staff at Kindred Spirits. As the meeting begins, 4-year-old QJ interrupts and asks, “I thought we were going to the park?” Q reminds his son of their plans and makes a promise he’s sure to keep: “Once this call is over, we’re headed to the park.” What’s most impressive during this hour-long conversation is Q’s patience. His attentiveness to both busy areas of his life—his demanding profession and his family—is admirable. Although both forces are pulling him during this meeting, they are not at odds. There is no competition because Q understands and values his priorities. It’s all part of the larger design he’s spent years carefully creating.
Q’s entrepreneurial efforts inform his most important role as a father. He says there’s an abundant number of lessons offered through the structure of a business. These lessons help guide his family and build a firm foundation where love can effortlessly grow through well- intentioned actions. “We have a family mission statement,” said Q. “The Hughes will practice love, positivity and promising principles daily at home and away. We will pursue purpose, strong family bonds and constant evolution. We will continue constructive traditions and leave a legacy among our family, our community and our people.” Q’s family believes in collective responsibility. It’s a guiding principle that helps each family member move into the world with purpose, always upholding their responsibility to themselves, the community and to Black folk. “I want my family to feel a responsibility to advance the culture and be a positive representation of their people,” said Q. “And to always look to others to build the culture. [I want our kids] to stand on our shoulders and elevate.” Editor’s note: This article is the first in a year-long series celebrating local dads. Author Lance Evans and husband Chris are fathers of Chrystian. Lance is director of communications for Variety Care, and he and Chris were voted MetroFamily’s 2021 Cool Pops.
Jump. Launch. Race
2021-2022 OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE, THE E.L. AND THELMA GAYLORD FOUNDATION, AND THE AD ASTRA FOUNDATION PRESENT
Performing Arts Series
learning tree
7638 N. Western, OKC • 405-848-1415 @learningtree.okc • learningtreeokc.com
THE TEN TENORS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25 • 8 PM
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2022 15
CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN
OKC PHIL DISCOVERY FAMILY CONCERT
TOP EVENTS FOR JANUARY/FEBRUARY
Jan. 7 FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District (NW 30th & 27th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features special themed exhibits, guest artists and a variety of live entertainment, all within walking distance. 6-9pm. thepaseo.org Jan. 7-9 Eagle Watch at Arcadia Lake (9000 E 2nd St, Edmond). See majestic eagles in their natural habitat. Begin at the Arcadia Lake Park office for information about where the eagles can be found and check out the raptor wingspan display, videos and more. Dress warmly and bring binoculars. $3 per vehicle. 8am-4pm. arcadialakeok.com Jan. 8 Learn to Curl at Devon Ice Rink (301 W Reno Ave). Learn the etiquette and rules of curling. Dress warmly and wear rubber-soled shoes. All other equipment will be provided. Also held: Jan. 22. Members, $20; nonmembers, $25. 9-10:30am. myriadgardens.org Detective Day at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features interactive sleuthing activities in a come-&-go adventure. The event will end with a live reading of an original radio script by Scott Paulson, Nancy Drew Mystery: Tiki Terror. $10; day of, $15; kids under 5, free. 10am-noon. edmondhistory.org New Year’s Stickball Game at the First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features a hands-on stickball demonstration and tournament- style game. All ages welcome. Free to attend. 1-5pm. famok.org/winterfun
Jan. 11-16 Dear Evan Hansen: A New Musical at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. Best suited for ages 12 & up. $52 & up. okcbroadway.com Jan. 14 FREE 2nd Friday Art Walk in Downtown Norman (Main St, Norman) features a monthly celebration of the arts with a variety of art and art performances. 6-9pm. 2ndfridaynorman.com FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more. 6-10pm. plazadistrict.org/live Jan. 15 FREE Hooked on Fishing Lessons at Edwards Park (2917 NE 14th St). Kids 5-15 will be taught basic fishing skills, including casting and knot tying. Rods, reels and bait provided. Preregister. Also held: Feb. 12 at Route 66 Park. 10am-noon. okc.gov/parksignup Jan. 17 Hot Dog Skate at SkateGalaxyOKC (5800 NW 36th St). Includes basic skate rental, hot dog & drink. All ages welcome. $6. 1-4pm. skategalaxyokc.com Jan. 22 Winter Games and Stories at the First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features seasonal games such as Nuki’ Lohmi and traditional stories appropriate for the winter months. 1-4pm. famok.org/winterfun
Jan. 23 OKC Phil Discovery Family Series: Pirates of the High Seas at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a one-hour, family-friendly concert designed to entertain and educate youngsters 13 & under. Enjoy musical selections from Pirates of Penzance, Peter Pan, Pirates of the Caribbean and more. $9. 2pm. okcphil.org Jan. 25-30 Rodger’s & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features the story of a community circling its wagons against an outsider and the frontier life that shaped America. Best suited for ages 12 & up. $36 & up. See website for showtimes. okcbroadway.com Jan. 28 Late Night at the Museum at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features an evening of family fun. Create a painting of the museum’s logo and learn its origin story. Explore Prosperity Junction on a flashlight tour. Bring your pillows and blankets and curl up for a showing of Night at the Museum . An adult must accompany children. Preregister. Best suited for ages 4 & up. $30-$35. 6:30-11pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández at the OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center (7777 S May Ave) features Mexico’s most renowned dance ensemble. All ages welcome. $17 & up. 8pm. occc.universitytickets.com Feb. 5 Kids Take Over the Cowboy at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St). Make
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music, participate in a sing-along, experiment with the science of music and make your own castanets and Zampoñas. Free with admission. 10am- noon. nationalcowboymuseum.org Norman Daddy Daughter Dance at Embassy Suites (2501 Conference Dr, Norman) features a fun evening for little girls and their fathers or father figures with dancing, music and refreshments. $15 until Jan. 17; $20 after. 2-3:30pm, 4:30-6pm & 7-8:30pm. facebook.com/normanokparks Midwest City Daddy Daughter Dance at the Nick Harroz Community Center (200 N Midwest Blvd, Midwest City) features an evening of dancing and special activities for dads and daughters ages 3-14. Light refreshments and a photo booth will be provided. Professional photographer and carriage rides will be available for additional cost. $15. 3-4:30pm, 4-5:30pm, 6-7:30pm & 8-9:30pm. midwestcityok.org Feb. 24-26 Simply Indie Film Fest at Showbiz Cinemas (3001 Market St, Edmond) features a variety of independent films, screenplays, music videos and photography. Individual tickets, $5; day passes, $10 & up. See website for film schedule. simplyindiefilmfest.com Feb. 25-27 Friends of the Metropolitan Library System Annual Book Sale at State Fair Park Oklahoma Expo Hall (3212 Wichita Walk) features thousands of books plus a large selection of music, DVDs and audiobooks. Free to attend. Members only: Friday, 9am-9pm; Saturday & Sunday (open to the public), 9am-5:30pm. supportmls.org/fol March 3 Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma Fashion Show at The Criterion (500 W Sheridan Ave) features 21 self-advocate models and peer models. The models will be dressed in Nash Engineered Fashion, custom outfits made to their personalities. Price to be announced. 6pm. dsaco.org March 4-6 Backwoods Hunting and Fishing Expo at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features outdoor-focused vendors, attractions, exhibits and seminars as well as kids’ activities. Adults, $10; kids (10 & under), free. Friday, 11am- 7pm; Saturday, 9am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. backwoodsshow.com
DATE NIGHT
AN EVENING WITH AN IMMIGRANT AT OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY. PHOTO BY OLIVER HOLMS
family on an outrageous journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction. $25 & up. See website for showtimes. lyrictheatreokc.com Feb. 18-20 Made in the U.S.A. at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features four ballets made in the United States by famous American choreographers. $38 & up. Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. okcballet.org Feb. 25 OKC Midtown Rotary Spelling Bee(r) at Tower Theatre (425 NW 23rd St) features an evening of spelling fun, a silent auction and local brews. Participate in the bee or watch while enjoying delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres from Pub W and beer from Oklahoma breweries. $55 & up. 6-11pm. facebook. com/OKCMidtownRotary The Ten Tenors at OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center (7777 S May Ave) features the dynamic Australian music ensemble performing romantic, soulful ballads and chart- topping pop and rock songs. $17 & up. 8pm. occc.universitytickets.com Feb. 25-26 The Music of Whitney Houston at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features an evening of Houston’s biggest hits, including Saving All My Love, How Will I Know?, Where Do
Jan. 8 OKC Phil’s Rachmaninoff Festival at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features Alain Lefèvre on piano and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. $27 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org Jan. 13 Heather McMahan at the Hudiburg Chevrolet Center (6000 S Propser Blvd, Midwest City) features comedian Heather McMahan’s Farewell Tour. $43 & up. 7:30pm. okcciviccenter.com Jan. 22 & 23 An Evening with an Immigrant at Oklahoma Contemporary’s Te Ata Theater (11 NW 11th St) features a poignant immigrant story of escaping fundamentalist Islam, experiencing prejudice and friendship, performing solo at the National Theatre and drinking wine with the Queen of England. Mild language present relevant to the subject matter. $30-$40; students, $15. Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 5pm. okcrep.org Jan. 27 Jeff Dunham at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features a cast of hilarious characters and the comedy of Jeff Dunham. $49.50 & up. 7pm. paycomcenter.com Feb. 16-March 6 Head Over Heels at Lyric’s Plaza Theatre (1727 NW 16th St) features a new musical mash-up of posh and punk. This unpredictable Elizabethan romp follows the escapades of a royal
Broken Hearts Go and, of course, I Will Always Love You performed by the OKC Philharmonic. $27 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org
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CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN
MUSEUM EXHIBITS
will close this spring and reopen with a brand-new installation in June. Adults, $12; kids (17 & under), free. Wednesday-Thursday, 11am-5pm; Friday, 11am-8pm; Saturday, 10am- 5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com Through March 31 FREE I Remember That: Edmond in the 1980s at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features artifacts and photographs that showcase an era rich in pop culture. Look back at a decade of celebration, tragedy and growth. Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm. edmondhistory.org Through May 1 Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) explores the tradition and artistic expression of tattooing from the permanent collection. Adults, $12.50; kids (6-12), $5.57; kids (5 & under), free. Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org Santa Fe Trail at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) recognizes the bicentennial of the trail. After opening trade between Missouri and Santa Fe, Nuevo Mexico, the Santa Fe Trail became a superhighway carrying goods both ways and directly affecting cultures in both countries, especially with Native peoples in the territories west of Missouri. Adults, $12.50; kids (6-12), $5.57; kids (5 & under), free. Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org Through Oct. Sun and Silver: Photography Before Statehood at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features an exploration of photographic images before statehood and early photographic equipment and processes, Tattooing: Religion, Reality and ‘Regert’ at National Cowboy & using a selection of images by 12 photographers. Adults, $10; kids (6-17), $5; kids (5 & under), free; families (up to 8 people), $25. Monday- Saturday, 10am-5pm. okhistory.org Opening Feb. 9 Seed Reef at Factory Obscura (25 NW 9th St) features an immersive, sculpted paper installation of a coral reef threatened by bleaching and pollution.
Through Jan. 30 For America: Paintings from the National Academy of Design at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a unique history of American art as told by many of the best-known American artists, including masters such as Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent and Andrew Wyeth. Adults, $12; kids (17 & under), free. Wednesday-Thursday, 11am-5pm; Friday, 11am-8pm; Saturday, 10am- 5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com Through Jan. 31 FREE The Clue in the Museum: A Nancy Drew-Inspired Detective Adventure at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a come-and-go detective adventure with puzzles, secret messages and more. Tuesday- FREE Open World: Videos Games & Contemporary Art at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) explores video games’ influence on contemporary art through painting, sculpture, textiles, prints, drawings, animation, video games, video game modifications and game-based performances and interventions by makers who self-identify as artists. Wednesday- Monday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, until 9pm. oklahomacontemporary.org Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-4pm. edmondhistory.org Through Feb. 21
MLK Jr. Day Jan. 17
FREE Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration in Oklahoma City (various locations) features a silent march, bell ringing, holiday program, parade and job fair. The 2022 theme is “Resilient and Relentless.” See website for schedule of events. okcmlkcoalition.org FREE Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church (419 S University Blvd, Norman) features a special performance by the Norman Philharmonic honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Adults, $15; kids (16 & under), $7. 7:30pm. normanphil.com Black History Month Feb. 5 Seizing Justice: The Greensboro 4 at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features a screening of the Smithsonian documentary followed by a panel discussion about the Oklahoma sit- in movement. Best suited for ages 12 & up. Adults, $10; students & seniors, $5. 1-3pm. okhistory.org Feb. 24 National Geographic Live Speaker Series: Greenwood: A Century of Resilience at the McKnight Center for the Performing Arts (705 W University Ave, Stillwater). A native of Tulsa, archaeologist Alicia Odewale is uncovering stories of resilience in the 100 years since the attack on Black Wall Street in the city’s vibrant Greenwood district. $25- $70. 7:30pm. mcknightcenter.org
Through March 27 Dale Chihuly: Magic & Light at
Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features one of the most comprehensive collections of Chihuly glass in the country. The exhibition
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Visitors can walk “underwater” through the kirigami (cut and folded paper) reef as it transitions from a colorful, vibrant section full of corals, fish and other sea life to a barren wasteland of bleached coral skeletons. Adults, $10; kids (4-12), $8; kids (3 & under), free. Wednesday, 10am-7pm; Thursday-Saturday, 11am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm. factoryobscura.com Opening Feb. 17 FREE Off the Wall at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features three Oklahoma-based artists — Sarah Ahmad, Romy Owens and Marium Rana — who create large- scale works that come in stunning and unexpected forms. Wednesday- Monday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, until 9pm. oklahomacontemporary.org Opening March 5 The Perfect Shot: Walter Iooss Jr. and the Art of Sports Photography at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features more than 80 photographs by iconic sports photographer Walter Iooss Jr., ranging from a girl striking out at a high school softball game to NFL players winning the Super Bowl. Adults, $12; kids (17 & under), free. Wednesday-Thursday, 11am- 5pm; Friday, 11am-8pm; Saturday, 10am- 5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com Opening March 24 FREE John Newsom: Nature’s Course at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features large-scale paintings alongside several more intimate works. The exhibition will include the brand-new 9x18-foot Nature’s Course and Homecoming , a new painting referencing Oklahoma. Wednesday- Monday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, until 9pm. oklahomacontemporary.org Find a full list of local events at metrofamilymagazine.com/ calendar. Editor’s note: Please enjoy family fun responsibly by following current CDC recommendations. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend contacting each business directly to verify current offerings.
to Make Healthy Habits Stick 6 Tricks Make a list of your goals. Start with an easier one. Write down your “why.” Put it somewhere you’ll see. Plan ahead for roadblocks. Lean on your loved ones for support. Keep your eyes on the prize: a healthier YOU! Got it down? Move on to your next one! 1. 2. 4. 3. 5. 6.
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MetroFamily’s Annual Education Guide
The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly challenged schools and other education-related businesses, but one thing is clear: parents continue to seek the best educational opportunities for their children. If you are looking for a school (preschool to high school), enrichment opportunities, field trips and/or STEAM activities, you’ll find many great options here in our Annual Education Guide. In addition, you’ll find articles throughout this issue that explore educational trends and opportunities, like whether a gap year could be beneficial for your graduating senior or what local museums are providing in the way of enrichment for the whole family. Learn more about why Oklahoma teachers are experiencing burnout this year and what you can do to alleviate the problem. Plus, get tips from metro experts on educating your kids at home around challenging topics like social media usage and sexual health. Join us in making it a priority this year to thank all those who so tirelessly champion our kids’ educations – from teachers and administrators to local enrichment programs and YOU as their parents!
PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE OPEN WORLD EXHIBIT AT OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
A t the new, state-of-the-art Oklahoma Contemporary, visitors explore art and creativity through exhibitions, performances and educational programs for all ages. This multidisciplinary contemporary arts organization is an inclusive space with most exhibitions and programs offered for free. Along with exhibitions and the hands-on Learning Gallery, kids and families can: • Attend weeklong school-break camps , including full spring, summer and fall camp itineraries that provide fun and challenging studio experiences for ages 5-12. Experienced art educators lead classes in painting, drawing, sculpture and ceramics plus performance, costume design, robotics and animation. • Visit free Second Saturday programs offered from 1-4 p.m., designed for the entire family and include hands-on art making, performances and gallery adventures.
Our family of five loves learning together at Second Saturdays! Not only are the programs free, the crafts and hands-on activities captivate the interest of all three of my kids, and the educators are so intentional in engaging families in creative and meaningful ways. Erin P.
Our 8-year-old daughter enthusiastically attended camps most of last summer. The camp variety kept her engaged all summer long. Will definitely be coming back next year! Dan O.
11 NW 11th St, OKC | 405-951-0000 | OklahomaContemporary.org
Before- and After-School Care T he YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City has a mission to provide quality out of school time programming that supports academic, physical and social-emotional development to school-age children before and after school hours. They offer financial assistance, feeding programs and value-based curriculum that focuses on character development through STEAM, health and wellness, global learning and many other topics.
The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City’s childcare programs provide support to my family in the form of childcare and mentorship. It provides me peace of mind. I know that my son is having fun, is safe and being cared for when I need it most. J. Moreno, parent
To see a list of before and after school care program locations, visit ymcaokc.org/beforeaftercare.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Erna Krouch Preschool is a gift to families. The teachers and staff, some of whom have been with the school 30+ years, genuinely care about each and every student. I’m continually touched by their sincere investment in my son’s well- being. Jameson is excited to go to school every day. He is learning, he is happy, he is thriving. We are so thankful for EKP! Marissa Hennigan, parent
T he oldest continuously-operating preschool in Oklahoma City, Erna Krouch Preschool serves ages 2-PreK. The school strives to be a first-rate example of what solid early childhood education should be by providing a safe, nurturing environment that allows for creative expression, exploration and the continued growth of confidence and self-esteem. In addition to weekly music, Spanish and Amazing Athletes programs, their students learn through sensory exploration and play-based experiences. The school encourages movement and play via their two outdoor playgrounds, an outside classroom space and a full-size gym. H arding Fine Arts Academy is a diverse, arts-integrated public charter school. Enrollment is tuition-free through a lottery system with no entrance requirements. The school offers an emphasis in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) curriculum and a robust list of fine arts and humanities courses in drama, visual arts, vocal, music, martial arts and dance. It also provides academic courses (including 14 Advanced Placement courses) in subjects such as math, English, science, social studies and foreign language. The teachers and administrators are dedicated to teaching the whole child, not just passing standardized exams. Harding is often listed at the top of “best high school” lists, including being named one of the Top 10 Oklahoma Public High Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Interested families can complete an online application or contact the school directly for more information.
Vivian Cohen, director 4901 N Pennsylvania Ave, OKC • 405-848-5926 thetempleokc.shulcloud.com/erna-krouch-preschool.html
Harding Fine Arts is the best educational experience for those looking for qualified,
committed, dedicated and experienced educators and staff. The balance of quality core curriculum with the excellent selection of art-based electives equals a top-notch foundation for the high school student interested in a liberal arts college degree. I would recommend this school even to those seeking a standard high school experience because of its wide variety of electives, student activities and smaller class sizes. An A++ in my grade book. Yvonne Hughes, parent
3333 N Shartel Ave, OKC • 405-702-4322 hardingfinearts.org
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