MetroFamily Magazine January February 2025

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

Educational resources to inspire curiosity for the whole family THE Learning Guide

Celebrating Black History Month Artful ways to engage with OKC’s vibrant heritage

What’s Right with Our Schools How innovative educators are enhancing student literacy

Geek Out! The metro’s most creative STEAM programs

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Contents

Features 23 THE LEARNING GUIDE

Educational resources to inspire curiosity for the whole family WHAT’S RIGHT WITH OUR SCHOOLS How innovative educators are enhancing student literacy

30 NOT JUST FOR KIDS

Explore unique library classes and programs for grown-ups

32 HEALING THROUGH EDUCATION

How Bethany Children’s Health Center keeps patients on track academically

PHOTO PROVIDED BY OKLAHOMA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ON THE COVER

49 GEEK OUT!

Tabitha, Taylor & Taliyah are the winners of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the sibling category. Tabi is 9 years old and in the third grade, Taylor is 7 and in first grade, and Taliyah is 4 and in PreK. Tabi loves coding, playing the piano, playing basketball and conducting science experiments. Taylor has an adventurous spirit and enjoys art, cooking, gymnastics and basketball. Taliyah is a budding gymnast who also likes to fix things with her toolset and create unique art. The girls are the daughters of Tania and Dwight, and together they enjoy exploring local parks, going to the library and visiting the OKC Zoo and Science Museum Oklahoma. PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

The metro’s most creative STEAM programs

Departments 6 CONNECT WITH METROFAMILY

Take advantage of our top seasonal resources

10 NEW & NOW

5 local happenings for families

12 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Wintertime family fun, Black History Month events & date night ideas

LOCAL FAMILY FUN Ways to celebrate Black History Month in OKC

58 EXPLORING OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN A day of play at Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum 62 LAST LOOK Touring the Oklahoma State Capitol with kids

MURAL BY CARLOS BARBOZA

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Letter from the Editor

2024

I ’m tired of Oklahoma ranking near-last in education. Aren’t you? I’m also tired of the antics of our state superintendent, who clearly doesn’t prioritize our students or teachers. There was a day last fall when, fed up with the bad news about education in Oklahoma, I literally threw up my hands, called the communications team at Oklahoma City Public Schools and said, “Is there anything good you can tell me about public education in our state?” We spent more than 30 minutes on the phone, and by the end of that call, I was reassured that there is plenty of good happening, and it far outweighs the bad. In fact, that call inspired a new year-long series, launching in this issue, called What’s Right with Our Schools . Over the next year, we’ll take a look at the biggest challenges in public ed, and we’ll shine a light on all the positive, creative, meaningful ways our local school districts are addressing those challenges. Our local schools are making significant strides — whether in improving chronic absenteeism, implementing innovative programs or helping students develop critical skills for life beyond graduation. And, though we acknowledge the need for further investment and innovation in our education system, we also celebrate the tremendous work being done by teachers, school leaders and organizations working to foster positive learning environments for our children. As parents and concerned community members, we have an important role to play, too, by staying informed and involved in our children’s educations. This issue’s 2025 Learning Guide provides a wealth of resources to help families navigate learning opportunities in the metro, from early education to after-school programs to ways families can learn together. I hope this issue inspires you to take advantage of the educational tools and programs available in our community and to engage with local efforts to improve education for all students.

2024

MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2025 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. Publisher Sarah Taylor Editorial & Marketing Director Erin Page Digital Editor Lindsay Cuomo Art Director Stacy Noakes Assistant Editor Emiley Bainbridge Account Executive Dana Price Business Development Specialists Katrina Kalb Tamika Sonnier Events Director Casey Shupe Operations Director Morgan Harris Content & Account Specialist Renee Filippo Social Media Coordinator Taylor Bollinger Contributing Writers Marisa Mohi Christina Mushi-Brunt Tim Willert Contributing Photographer Bridget Pipkin Contact us Mailing address: 6608 N. Western Ave., #458 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Phone: 405-601-2081 tips@metrofamilymagazine.com metrofamilymagazine.com

Let’s work together to create an environment where all children can thrive.

With conviction,

Erin Page Editorial and Marketing Director

Proud member of

IN ANOTHER POSITIVE MEETING ABOUT THE GOOD HAPPENING IN PUBLIC EDUCATION, SUPERINTENDENT OF OKLAHOMA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS DR. JAMIE POLK SHARED WITH ME 6 THINGS PARENTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PUBLIC SCHOOLS. READ HER STORY AT METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM/POLK.

Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Midwest City Chamber of Commerce

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Connect with MetroFamily

Your Parenting Playbook for OKC in January & February

O ur primary goal at MetroFamily is to make life easier for local parents. Through our bi-monthly magazines, robust website, blogs by local parents and exciting events and contests, we seek to tame parent overwhelm and infuse joy into your families. The best way to get all the family fun and parenting resources from MetroFamily is to sign up for our FREE e-newsletter . You’ll receive bite-sized timely news, top weekend events, info on our contests to win fabulous

Check out 6 opportunities to learn, have fun and take advantage of local resources from MetroFamily in January and February.

prizes, seasonal guides and real-life parenting tips straight to your email inbox. Sign up at metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe. 

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1 Use our searchable Learning Guide Looking for the best in local educational opportunities for your child?

OKC MLK ALLIANCE PARADE. PHOTO PROVIDED BY VISIT OKC.

Seeking places to learn as a family? Our searchable Learning Guide , updated throughout the year, includes information on private, charter, online

2 Celebrate Black History Month in February — and all year long Find our Black History Month Guide , including local events, museum exhibits, book recommendations and activities to enjoy as a family, as well as Black-owned businesses to support, at metrofamilymagazine.com/ black-history-month.

and public schools, as well as preschool programs, field trips, tutors, educational enrichment opportunities and ideal spots to learn as a family. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/learning-guide. PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Connect with MetroFamily 3 Enter our new Moms in Focus photo contest This new photo contest celebrates the love of moms and mother figures . Whether you’re a mom sharing a special moment with your child, a partner showcasing a cherished memory or anyone honoring their own mom or an important mother figure, we want to see all the heartwarming photos that celebrate the love and connection between mothers and their families.

Submit photos from Jan. 29 through Feb. 19 . Then, from Feb. 20 to 28, you can vote on your favorite photo entries. Three winners will be chosen to receive prize packages containing gifts from our generous partners, like The Ellison Hotel, Wyndham Hotel, YMCA of Greater OKC, Cargo Room, Chirps and Cheers, Black Swan Boutique, Curbside Flowers, Redrock Grill, Sweet Mimosa Day Spa, Upper Crust, Hefner Grill and Mama Roja. Plus, everyone who submits an entry will receive half off the joining fee for any YMCA of Greater OKC location. Enter beginning Jan. 29 at metrofamilymagazine.com/contests. 

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Plan frugal family fun 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.

For just $25 annually, become a MetroFamily Insider and receive a mailed subscription to MetroFamily Magazine, free tickets to MetroFamily events and other special offers. Join today at metrofamilymagazine.com/insider.

Save the date for our family fun events

MetroFamily’s signature events will be bigger and better than ever in 2025! Mark your calendar to join us for: • Kids Fest on March 29 • Geekapalooza on Nov. 8 Both events will be held at Rose State College in Midwest City.

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New & Now

Community Buzz 5 newsworthy happenings for families BY EMILEY BAINBRIDGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED. Turning pages and taking stages: A Broadway library adventure OKC Broadway and the Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County are bringing the loves of reading and Broadway together with their “Pages To Stages” program. Library cardmembers can visit any of the 19 metro library locations to enter for a chance

“I GOTTA CROW.” (FROM L) NOLAN ALMEIDA AS PETER PAN, HAWA KAMARA AS WENDY. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY. FROM FEB. 7 TO MARCH 7, ENTER TO WIN PETER PAN THE MUSICAL TICKETS AT ANY OF THE 19 METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM LOCATIONS.

to win tickets to a select OKC Broadway show. Enter to win tickets to the upcoming national Broadway tour of Peter Pan the Musical at library locations from Feb. 7 through March 7. As an added bonus to this partnership, while national Broadway tours are in Oklahoma, performers will visit libraries to read with children. Limited supplies of free show-themed bookmarks will also be available. Find out more at metrofamilymagazine.com/win-tickets-broadway- shows-okc.

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras inspires young musicians and global adventures Oklahoma Youth Orchestras provides quality music education for over 400 students across the metro. The nonprofit organization features both auditioned and non-auditioned ensembles for students of all ages and skill levels playing strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. The program also offers a summer camp for students across the state. In June 2025, the organization is planning a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Prague, Vienna and Salzburg for their flagship ensemble. Students will explore cities steeped in music history and perform in some of the world’s most renowned music halls. To offset costs for students to make the trip, OKYO has secured $20,000 in matching pledges with $10,000 already raised. The community can support students’ efforts in March by attending a Chamber Music Night, featuring performances by students. Find more information and make a donation toward the cause at okyomusic.org/touring.

OKLAHOMA YOUTH ORCHESTRAS IS RAISING MONEY TO TAKE STUDENTS TO PRAGUE, VIENNA AND SALZBURG IN JUNE 2025 FOR A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME MUSICAL TRIP.

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CHECK OUT JUNIPER’S BUTTERFLY GARDEN FROM PARTICIPATING LIBRARIES AND RECEIVE A TICKET VOUCHER FOR THE OKC ZOO.

Read to earn free zoo admission Read for Adventure, the Oklahoma City Zoo’s statewide reading program, promotes literacy and gives participants the chance to visit the zoo for free. Library cardholders can check out Juniper’s Butterfly Garden from any participating public and tribal library location within Oklahoma to receive a voucher redeemable for free general admission to the OKC Zoo for up to four people. The featured book, Juniper’s Butterfly Garden , inspires kids to learn about monarch butterflies and why it’s important to protect them. Monarchs migrate annually through Oklahoma on their journey from central Mexico to southern Canada, and the zoo is committed to conserving vital habitats that benefit all pollinators. The program is sponsored by OG&E, and vouchers expire June 30, 2025. For a list of participating libraries, visit okczoo.org/readforadventure.

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM FOUNDATION DELIVERS BOOKS TO NORMAN REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM.

Building readers from birth Pioneer Library System has begun a new initiative in partnership with Norman Regional Health System and SSM Health in Shawnee to foster a love of reading from birth. Every baby born at Norman Regional Health System and SSM Health in Shawnee will receive a free book. Plus, parents will be invited to sign up for the free Dolly Parton Imagination Library through the Pioneer Library System. This program provides free, high-quality books to children ages birth through 5. This new initiative is part of the Pioneer Library System Foundation’s commitment to supporting early childhood education, family engagement and literacy in the community.

ASTEC breaks ground on new secondary school

Construction is underway on the new ASTEC Charter middle and high schools. They will be located on the same site as the new elementary school along General Pershing Boulevard, near the OKC Fairgrounds. The expected completion date is June 2026. ASTEC is a science, technology, engineering, arts and math-focused public school for PreK through 12th grades that is free and open to any students in Oklahoma City. The school has leased space from Shepherd (Mall) Center for the past 24 years.

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Calendar of Events

OKC Family Fun in January and February Contents 13 Things to do in January 13 Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 14 Ice rinks 16 Celebrate Black History Month 17 Things to do in February 18 Date night ideas 20 Must-see museum exhibits 21 March sneak peek 22 2025 #okcfamilyfun bucket list

OKC BALLET PRESENTS SWAN LAKE AT CIVIC CENTER MUSIC HALL FEB. 7-16. PHOTO BY SHEVAUN WILLIAMS.

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Calendar of Events

Things to do in January JAN. 3-5

JAN. 10-11 ESPN Collegiate Quad Gymnastics Invitational at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave). Five collegiate women’s gymnastics teams from across the NCAA will compete. $19 & up. Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 3 & 8pm. paycomcenter.com JAN. 11 FREE Winter Birding for Families at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features a guided tour in the park to see some fine-feathered friends. Preregister. 9:30- 11am. Also held: Feb. 8. okc.gov/parks FREE Second OHOF Saturdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features crafts, activities and more centered on Oklahoma Hall of Fame members. All ages welcome. 10am-2pm. oklahomahof.com FREE Pick-a-Tune with Lucas at American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan Ave) features a beginner’s banjo lesson. Banjos provided. Preregister; space is limited. Registration

JAN. 12 FREE Admission to Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr). Visitors of all ages receive free admission on the second Sunday of each month, thanks to generous support from Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program. Noon-5pm. okcmoa.com FREE LIVE! on the Plaza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features local artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more. Noon-4pm. plazadistrict.org JAN. 13 Homeschool Day at Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey Ave) features interactive STEM activities, a behind-the-scenes tour of the archives, a self-guided tour of the museum and more. Best suited for kids in 4th grade & up. Preregister. Free for students. 9:30am-3pm. memorialmuseum.com

Eagle Watch at Arcadia Lake (9000 E 2nd St, Edmond). See majestic eagles in their natural habitat. Begin at the park office for information about where the eagles can be found and check out a raptor wingspan display, videos and more. Dress warmly and bring binoculars. $5 per vehicle. 8am-4pm. edmondok.gov/339/Lake-Events-Activities JAN. 4 FREE New Year’s Stickball Game at First Americans Museum (659 First Americans Blvd) features a co-ed, tournament-style stickball game, beginning with a youth game (ages 7–17) followed by an adult game (18+). Spectators welcome. 11am-2pm. famok.org JAN. 9 Nature’s Classroom: Hibernation Station at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn about the animals that go for a deep sleep to survive winter and how their bodies change to survive Oklahoma’s extreme heat. Preregister. Best suited for ages 5 & up. $2. 10-11am. okc.gov/parks

includes free entry to the museum. 2-3pm. americanbanjomuseum.com

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

features a parade, pancake breakfast, worship service and a party with a variety of live entertainment. Free to attend. See website for schedule of events. nbn-nrc.org Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a variety of family-friendly activities that commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., including art and live performances. 10am-1pm. myriadgardens.org FREE Tulsa Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade in downtown Tulsa (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd & John Hope Franklin Blvd, Tulsa) features an annual parade to honor a legend and celebrate freedom with the community. 11am. mlktulsa.com

JAN 8-19 FREE MLK Jr. I Have a Dream! Program at Capitol Hill Library (327 SW 27th St). Help fill the library with dreams by decorating a Dream Cloud with colorful drawings, symbols and words. Monday-Thursday, 9am-9pm; Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. metrolibrary.org JAN. 20 FREE OKC Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration in downtown OKC (various locations) features a silent march, bell ringing, parade, job fair and more. 9am-3pm. okcmlkalliance.org Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade & Celebration at Martin Luther King Community Center (300 W Martin Luther King St, Muskogee)

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Calendar of Events

Ice rinks

JAN. 15-17 National Pigeon Association Grand National Show at OKC Fairgrounds Pavilion (3212 Wichita Walk) features over 200 breeds of exhibition pigeons. Learn about this humble bird’s contributions to civilization, from carrying messages to helping mankind understand the fundamentals of genetics. Free to attend. 10am-8pm. npausa.com JAN. 16 FREE Dolly Day Celebration at Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features crafts, games and stories to celebrate Dolly Day and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. 4-5pm. metrolibrary.org JAN. 16-19 International Finals Rodeo at Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie) features professional rodeo action as cowboys and cowgirls compete for the title of World Champion in eight events. $20-$40. Thursday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. ipra-rodeo.com/ifr JAN. 17-19 Oklahoma Bead & Jewelry Show at Oklahoma Expo Hall (3213 Wichita Walk) features fine jewelry, fashion jewelry, beads and more. $5. Friday & Saturday, 10am- 6pm; Sunday, 10am-4pm. aksshow.com Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show at Bennett Event Center (3101 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features seasonal interior design, home renovation tips and landscaping THROUGH JAN. 20 Edmond Ice Rink at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features outdoor skating on a real ice rink. $14; $10 without skate rental; kids (under 5), $10. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm; Friday, 3-10pm; Saturday, noon-10pm; Sunday, noon-9pm. edmondicerink.com Oak on Ice at Heartwood Park (5101 N Penn Ave) features outdoor skating in a festive atmosphere. $15; $10 without skate rental. Monday- Thursday, 4-9pm; Friday, 4-10pm; Saturday, noon-10pm. oakokc.com

THROUGH FEB. 2 Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features outdoor ice skating on 5,500 square feet of real ice. $14, $9 without skate rental; members, $10. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm; Friday, 3-11pm; Saturday, 11am-11pm; Sunday, 11am- 7pm; Jan. 20, 11am-9pm. myriadgardens.org

trends. More than 300 vendors display products and custom services for updating homes, both inside and out. $13; kids (12 & under), free. Friday, noon-8pm; Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am- 5pm. oklahomacityhomeshow.com JAN. 19 FREE Sparkle Like Dolly Party at Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave) features games, crafts, cake and story time. Attendees can also make pet toys for a local animal shelter. All ages welcome. 2-4pm. metrolibrary.org JAN. 21 Art Adventures at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave) features a storytime and related art activity. Best suited for ages 3-8. Free with admission. Adults, $12; kids (17 & under), free. 10:30- 11am. Also held: Feb. 18. ou.edu/fjjma JAN. 23 Nature’s Classroom: Duck Duck Goose at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn about the exciting life of native water birds. The class includes hands-on activities and a short outdoor hike, weather permitting. Best suited for ages 5-12. Preregister. $2. 10-11am. okc.gov/parks JAN. 24-25 OKCPhil presents Music of the Knights: Lloyd Webber, John & McCartney at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a concert honoring the

legendary realms of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney. Broadway vocalists join the Philharmonic orchestra on a journey through the greatest hits of these three iconic songwriters. $24 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org JAN. 24-26 AMA Arena Cross Championship at Lazy E Arena (600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie). Watch as youngsters from the age of 4 to experienced professionals all compete on the same track. $25-$40. 7:30pm. lazye.com JAN. 25 Lunar New Year at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features cultural performances, face painting, music, crafts and special performances from the Lion Dancers. Free to attend. 11am-2pm. myriadgardens.org

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Healthy Habits Happen One Day at a Time Choose a day to get healthy as a family. Keep it simple. Make it yours. SOUP & SALAD SUNDAY MOVEMENT MONDAY TV-FREE TUESDAY WATER-ONLY WEDNESDAY TRY-A-NEW-VEGGIE THURSDAY FAMILY-DINNER FRIDAY STRONG SATURDAY

Find new ways to build easy routines at

Calendar of Events

Celebrate Black History Month

THROUGH FEB. 7 OKC Thunder Artwork Contest (online) invites students in grades 9-12 to submit an original poster that describes or depicts an inspirational experience, moment or individual in Black history and how they have been personally inspired. Entry deadline is Feb. 7. Learn more at nba.com/thunder/blackheritage. FEB. 1-28 FREE African American Inventor Exhibit at Ralph Ellison Library (2000 NE 23rd St) features a curated display of African American inventors by librarian and researcher Phillip Tolbert. Monday-Thursday, 9am-9pm; Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am- 5pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. metrolibrary.org

FEB. 7 FREE The Groovemeant Community Performance at Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave). Enjoy a street dancing performance and learn a few moves from The Groovemeant Community. 11am-noon. metrolibrary.org FEB. 9 Black History Month/MLK Celebration Concert at Center for Arts & Learning, Benson Auditorium (3801 Journey Parkway, Norman) features Valarie Harding, a contestant on “The Voice,” Unity Choir, Norman Philharmonic, an art exhibit and dance performances. Adults,$10; students, $9. 4pm. normanphil.com

FEB. 15 FREE 921 Race Massacre: Survivor Stories with Dr. Karlos Hill at Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features a special presentation by Dr. Karlos K. Hill, regents’ professor at the University of Oklahoma and author of The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre: A Photographic History . Dr. Hill will share survivor stories of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Afterward, he will sign copies of his book, which will be available for purchase. Preregister. 2-3:30pm. metrolibrary.org FEB. 22 FREE Rap Workshop with Emmy Award Winner Jabee at Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features a free rap workshop for kids and teens with Jabee Williams, an Oklahoma City-based musician and community activist. Preregister. 11am-noon. metrolibrary.org

Looking for #OKCFamilyFun? Sign up to receive MetroFamily's FREE award-winning daily e-newsletter, full of family fun ideas, local events and parenting resources. Subscribe here!

PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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JAN. 26 OKCPhil Discovery Family Series – As Heard on TV at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a concert for children of all ages. OKCPhil’s orchestra takes families on a journey through iconic tunes heard on TV, in movies and even in favorite video games. Best suited for ages 4-13. $9. 2pm; pre-concert activities begin at 1pm. okcphil.org JAN. 30 FREE Super Smash

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Language Therapy

Family Favorites metro family WINNER

Tournament at Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave) features a head- to-head, tournament style competition for teens. Registration not required. 5-6:30pm. metrolibrary.org

Things to do in February

May Ave) features an all-new production with custom soundtrack, special effects, immersive visuals and dazzling light displays. $23 & up. 7pm. occc.ticketsage.net FEB. 15-16 Monster Jam at Paycom Center (100 W Reno Ave) features racing and freestyle action from the biggest Monster Jam superstars. $20 & up. Saturday, 1 & 7pm; Sunday, 1pm. paycomcenter.com FEB. 22-23 Friends of the Metropolitan Library System Annual Book Sale at OKC Fairgrounds – Oklahoma Expo Hall (3212 Wichita Walk) features more than 500,000 books covering a wide variety of topics, plus a large selection of music, DVDs, Blu-rays, audiobooks and more. Free to attend. 9am-5pm. supportmls.org FEB. 26 Dragons and Mythical Beasts Live at OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center (7777 S May Ave) features an interactive show about a magical world of myths and legends, including some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. $31 & up. 7:30pm. occc.ticketsage.net

FEB. 7-9 Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. at Sooner Theatre (101 E Main St, Norman) features a community production based on Disney’s Broadway production and the motion picture. $20. Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2 & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. soonertheatre.org FEB. 7-16 OKC Ballet presents Swan Lake at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features graceful ballerinas, noble princes and the heart-wrenching melodies of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, performed live by OKCPhil. Best suited for ages 5 & up. $29 & up. Sensory friendly performance on Feb. 15. Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. okcballet.org FEB. 15 Valentine’s Succulent Wreath Workshop at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St). Create a succulent masterpiece to take home. Wreath and succulents provided. Preregister. $45 per wreath. 9-11am. okc.gov/parks Wizard of Oz On Ice at OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center (7777 S

Schedule an evaluation! 405-840-1686

4 Locations to Serve You!

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SensationalKidsOKC.com

Calendar of Events

Date night ideas

JAN. 11 OKCPhil presents Dichter Plays Grieg at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a concert with guest conductor Gerard Schwarz and Misha Dichter on piano. $24 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org JAN. 16 Third Thursday: Adult Night at Factory Obscura (25 NW 9th St). Factory Obscura stays open late to give grown-ups (18+) the run of the experience. $22; members, free. 7-10pm. factoryobscura.com JAN. 17-18 OKC Rep presents Under the Radar: The Things Around Us at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features a collection of seemingly unrelated stories that swirl and dance with an immersive, live musical score created through electronically looped and affected trumpet, clarinet and everyday objects. $20 & up. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2 & 8pm. okcrep.org

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FEB. 12-MARCH 2 Waitress at Lyric’s Plaza Theatre (1725 NW 16th St). Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, is stuck in a small town and an abusive marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop. The show contains adult content. $25 & up. See website for show times. lyrictheatreokc.com FEB. 14 An Evening with Renée Elise Goldsberry at McKnight Center for the Performing Arts (705 W University Ave, Stillwater). Renée Elise Goldsberry, a superstar on the stage and screen, is the Tony-winning original Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton . She’s performed lead roles in Rent , The Color Purple and The Lion King . $30 & up. 7:30pm. mcknightcenter.org FEB. 19

FEB. 22 OKCPhil presents Symphonies East & West at Civic Center Music Hall (201

FEB. 22-23 Chicago the Musical at McKnight Center for the Performing Arts (705 W University Ave, Stillwater). After 25 years, Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz. Best suited for ages 13 & up. $45 & up. Saturday, 1 & 7:30pm; Sunday, 1pm. mcknightcenter.org

Glenn Miller Orchestra at Rose State Performing Arts Center (6000 S Prosper Blvd, Midwest City) features a 17-member orchestra, lead singers and a vocal group performing a catalog of big band classics. $66 & up. 7pm. okcciviccenter.com Let’s Party! Make your child’s celebration extra special with these local businesses. Get our online Party Guide. N Walker Ave) features SHANKAR: Symphony and COPLAND: Symphony No. 3 with special guest Arjun Verma on sitar. $24 & up. 8pm. okcphil.org

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Calendar of Events Must-see museum exhibits

Closing soon THROUGH JAN. 25

Opening soon OPENING JAN. 18 Wild Creativity at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) is a Spanish/ English exhibition that explores biomimicry and engineering concepts through hands-on, interactive design and engineering challenges inspired by our natural world. Learn how our human-made world is inspired by the natural world and how we can continue to use nature’s inspirations to solve new and pressing challenges. Free with admission. Adults, $12; kids (4-17), $7; kids (3 & under), free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am- 5pm. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu OPENING JAN. 30 FREE Hock E Aye Vi Edgar Heap of Birds: Honor Song at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features the first retrospective for internationally recognized artist Edgar Heap of Birds (Cheyenne and Arapaho) in his state of residence. See multimedia works from an impressive

FREE Voices and Votes: Democracy in America at Bethany Library (6700 NW 35th St, Bethany) covers the revolution and suffrage to civil rights and casting ballots, highlighting the story of democracy in America. Learn about the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people.” Monday-Thursday, 9am- 9pm; Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am- 5pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. metrolibrary.org Into the Mirror at Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zudhi) features a view of Indigenous people from the perspective of Indigenous artists. The works range from 1878 to the present and include oil, acrylic, watercolor, casein, pencil sketches, lithographs and bronze sculpture. Adults, $12.50; students, $9; kids (under 5), free. Monday- Saturday, 10am-5pm. okhistory.org THROUGH JAN. 27 FREE Outré West: The American School of Architecture from Oklahoma to California at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) explores the works of a group of architects who were educated and mentored in Oklahoma in the 1950s and 1960s and who later developed groundbreaking design practices in California. Wednesday-Monday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, until 9pm. oklahomacontemporary.org Recently opened THROUGH SEPT. 28 Land Use: Humanity’s Interaction with Nature at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features modern and contemporary paintings, photographs, video art and digital art that relate to humanity’s use of and interaction with the environment. Adults, $12.95; kids (17 & under), free. Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY.

and lauded 40-year career. Wednesday- Monday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, until 9pm. oklahomacontemporary.org OPENING FEB. 8 From the Vault: The 80th Anniversary Exhibition at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features more than 150 paintings, prints, photographs, drawings and sculptures from the museum’s permanent collection, including never- before-displayed acquisitions by Preston Singletary and Georgia O’Keeffe. Adults, $12.95; kids (17 & under), free. Wednesday- Saturday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am- 8pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. okcmoa.com

EDGAR HEAP OF BIRDS, UNTITLED , 2007. MURANO GLASS. 16 X 14 X 14 IN. MADE FOR MOST SERENE REPUBLICS, 2007, EXHIBITION ON THE OCCASION OF THE 52ND VENICE BIENNIAL IN COLLABORATION WITH THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN, SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, WASHINGTON, D.C. © EDGAR HEAP OF BIRDS. IMAGE COURTESY OF THE ARTIST.

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March sneak peek

MARCH 29

MARCH 1 FREE Mardi Gras Parade in downtown Norman (Main St, Norman) features parade floats, musicians, dancers and a wide array of fun and unusual characters. The parade loops the same route twice. 7-9pm. facebook.com/NormanMardiGrasSociety MARCH 7 Spamilton: An American Parody at OCCC Performing Arts Center (7777 S May Ave) features a new musical parody with celebrity satires, pop culture zings and hip-hop on the piano. $48 & up. 7:30pm. occc.edu/pas MARCH 14-APRIL 5 The SpongeBob Musical at Pollard Theatre (120 W Harrison Ave). When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. Best suited for ages 6 & up. Adults, $35; kids (12 & under), $10. See website for show times. thepollard.org MARCH 21-23 OKC Broadway presents Peter Pan at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a high-flying musical adventure about Peter Pan, his mischievous sidekick, Tinker Bell, and the Darling children. All ages welcome. Pricing TBA. Tuesday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2 & 7pm; Sunday, noon & 5pm. okcbroadway.com

MARCH 21-23 Red Earth Arts Festival at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features artistic creations of some of America’s most celebrated Native artists, plus hands-on arts and crafts stations, artist demonstrations, live music and special presentations of tribal dance. Adults, $15; kids (6 & under), free with paid adult. 9am-6pm. redearth.org MARCH 22 FREE Oklahoma Farm-to-Table Festival at Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features hands-on activities and demonstrations that explore historic and modern agriculture such as chuckwagon cooking, a petting zoo, crafts and more. 10am-3pm. okhistory.org

MetroFamily’s Kids Fest at Rose State College (1910 Hudiburg Dr, Midwest City) features dozens of children’s activities such as stage performances, family games, crafts, character meet & greets and face painting. Kids (24 mos & up), $5 in advance, $8 at the door; adults & kids (ages 23 mos & under), free.10am-2:30pm. Tickets available Feb. 1. metrofamilymagazine.com MARCH 29-30 Tulip Festival at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features 30,000+ tulip blossoms plus creative displays, vendors, live entertainment, activities for kids and more. Free to attend. 10am-5pm. myriadgardens.org

“I WON’T GROW UP!” NOLAN ALMEIDA AS PETER PAN (CENTER) AND THE CAST OF PETER PAN. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY.

Kids Programs LIL’ KICKERS

Whether your child loves the arts, STEM, sports or all of the above, find the perfect fit for their interests. See all the programs online.

WE EMPHASIZE FUN!

Ages 9-12 $55 per player Wheeler Park Registration Deadline: February 18 okcparks.com

Kids ages 18 months- 9 years old learn soccer skills at their level.

ENROLL TODAY! SoccerCityOKCity.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2025 21

Calendar of Events

2025 #okcfamilyfun bucket list Save the date for these annual family favorites!

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Eagle Watch Jan. 3-5 at Arcadia Lake OKC MLK Jr. Day Parade Jan. 20 in downtown OKC Red Earth Festival March 21-23 at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Paseo Arts Festival May 24-26 in Paseo Arts District deadCenter Film Festival June 11-15 at various location in OKC

Juneteenth on the East Mid-June on NE 23rd Street OKC Pride Festival June 27-29 at Scissortail Park Blackberry Festival June 20-21 at McLoud Veterans Memorial Park Rock the Block Aug. 28 in downtown Yukon Oklahoma State Fair Sept. 11-21 at State Fair Park GrillStock Sept. 13 at Buck Thomas Park Fiestas de las Americas Late September at the new Plaza Calle Dos Cinco Mid-America Street Fest Late September at W.P “Bill” Atkinson Park

Oklahoma Farm-to-Table Festival March 22 at Oklahoma History Center MetroFamily’s Kids Fest March 29 at Rose State College Tulip Festival March 29-30 at Myriad Botanical Gardens Medieval Fair of Norman April 4-6 at Reaves Park Redbud Classic April 5-6 at Nichols Hills Plaza Norman Music Festival April 24-26 in downtown Norman Festival of the Arts April 24-27 at Bicentennial Park Memorial Marathon April 25-27 in downtown OKC Edmond Arts Festival May 2-4 in downtown Edmond El Reno Burger Day May 3 in downtown El Reno

Plaza District Festival Sept. 27 in the Plaza District Chisholm Trail Festival

Mid-October at Mollie Spencer Farm MetroFamily’s Geekapalooza Nov. 8 at Rose State College Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival Nov. 13 in Bricktown OKC Community Chanukah Festival Dec. 14 at Scissortail Park

Festival of the Child May 3 at Yukon City Park Chuck Wagon Festival May 24-25 at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

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Learning Guide

METROFAMILY’S 2025 Learning Guide

As local parents navigate a state with some well- documented challenges in education, we believe it’s imperative for families to also understand that we have a wealth of educational opportunities available to us. In addition to offering excellent public, private, charter and online school options, our community provides enriching programs, tutoring support, field trips and opportunities for families to learn together. As we acknowledge the need for powerful, positive change in our education system, we also commend the people and organizations (especially our teachers!) doing the work to help our students grow academically and as great humans. Whether you’re looking for a preschool, ways to celebrate Black History Month or STEAM programs to pique your child’s interest, this guide will connect you to the metro’s best educational resources. Let’s take advantage of the incredible local resources available to us — and let’s work together to foster an environment where all children can thrive!

Within this guide, you’ll find: 24 What’s Right with Our Schools How innovative educators are enhancing student literacy 26 Local Family Fun Ways to celebrate Black History Month in OKC 30 Not Just for Kids Explore unique library classes and programs for grown-ups 32 Healing Through Education How Bethany Children’s Health Center keeps patients on track academically

49 Geek Out!

The metro’s most creative STEAM programs 58 Exploring Oklahoma with Children

A day of play at Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum

62 Last Look

Touring the Oklahoma State Capitol with kids

Find even more educational resources, updated throughout the year, at metrofamilymagazine.com/learning-guide. 

Learning Guide 23

What’s Right with Our Schools Building a foundation of literacy through STEAM education BY TIM WILLERT . PHOTOS PROVIDED.