you will find summer activities for the entire family
Transcription
you will find summer activities for the entire family
SCHOOL’S OUT w o n summer 2016 a t ? h w you will find summer activities for the entire family right here! 2 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Summer Camp Best. Summer. Ever. School’s out, now what? Keep your kids active this summer all while having fun and learning! Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club is offering a variety of summer programs perfect for your youngsters. From golf, tennis, archery, stand up paddleboarding, swim lessons, and general day camps, we have something for you to keep your juniors happy all summer. Golf Camps Tennis Camps PGA Junior League Golf Archery Camps Sign Your Kids Up Today! Outdoor Multi-Activity Camps Standup Paddle Boarding Lessons Swimming Lessons For more information, visit our website at rvrcc.com/juniorprograms. Contact Our Front Desk at 956-350-4000 for more information. Rancho Viejo Dr. | Rancho Viejo, Tx 78575 11 Rancho Viejo Dr. | Rancho Viejo, Tx 78575 RVRCC.COM SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 3 IMAS WEEKLY SUMMER CAMPS IMAS CAMPS JUNE 6, 6, 2016 2016 - AUGUST 19, 2016 JUNE When school is out, IMAS is in! Register Register Now Now at: at: (956) (956) 682-0123 682-0123 Session Session Session Session Session 1: 2: 3: 4: 5: June 6-10 June 13-17 June 20-24 June 27- July 1 July 11-15 Members $180 Full Day $90 Half Day Session Session Session Session Session 6: July 18-22 7: July 25-29 8: August 1-5 9: August 8-12 10: August 15-19 Non-Members $200 Full Day $100 Half Day Extras $25/Week Before OR After Care $40/Week Before AND After Care MA-85106863 • Full Day sessions are Monday - Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Half Day sessions are Monday - Friday from 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Before Care from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. • After Care from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. *Only 25 seats per session. 1900 NOLANA AVENUE, MCALLEN, TX 78504 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.IMASONLINE.ORG 4 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Begin planning kids’ summer recreation now Many families spend winter figuring out how to chase away cabin fever and endure frigid temperatures until spring and summer mercifully return. Parents thinking ahead to swimming pools and days lounging on the beach can put their daydreams to practical use by planning ahead for their youngsters’ summer vacations. Youth recreational programs and summer camps can bridge the gap in care between the end of school and the day when classes resume. Due in part to high demand, parents who want to place their kids in summer rec programs or summer camps should being vetting such programs and camps well in advance of summer. The following are a handful of tips for moms and dads who want their kids to have fun and fulfilling summers. • Ask for recommendations. Speak with fellow parents and trusted friends about where they send their children. Personal recommendations can be very helpful, providing firsthand insight into a particular camp or program. Schedule appointments to visit camps that fall within your budget. Take your son or daughter along so he or she can get a sense of what camp will be like. • Explore all options. Camps come in more flavors than ever before. Certain camps may be faith-based ministries while others may focus on particular sports. Band camps and art camps may appeal to creative kids. Also, there are plenty of general-interest camps that offer various activities without narrowing in on any particular one. Parents may need to choose between a sleep away camp or day camps, depending on which camp experience they want for their children. • Inquire about camp schedules. While many camps are flexible, day camps do not have the same level of flexibility as after-school programs. Arrangements will need to be made if care is required after regular camp hours. Speak with camp staff to see which types of after-hours programs, if any, are available. Summer school recess will be here before you know it. Make sure you’re prepared for camp and other recreational programs. • Determine your camp budget. As varied as program offerings may be, camps also can vary greatly with regard to cost. Government-run camps may be less expensive than those offered by private companies. Day camps typically cost less than those that provide room and board. Find out if a particular organization subsidizes a portion of camp costs. Scouting programs often have a dedicated camp and may offer affordable options for scouts. Martial arts schools and dance centers frequently offer camp schedules. If camp seems out of reach, look into local summer recreation programs at parks or schools. Such programs may not be as extensive as those offered by camps, but they can quell kid boredom and keep children occupied during the day. In addition to camp, remember to plan for some free days so children can just enjoy some downtime. Such days can break up the monotony of a routine and provide kids and families time to relax together. Summer recreation may be far off, but it is never too early to start making summer plans, including finding camps and other activities for kids. SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 5 MA-95217357 6 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 View the entire list of programs, activities, classes & events online at www.mcallenparks.net Register in person at Lark, Palm View and Las Palmas Community Centers For more information contact (956) 681-3333 SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 7 How to keep kids entertained all summer long more formal camps. A YMCA or even a swim club may also put together activities. Parents whose children attend afterschool sporting classes, such as karate or soccer, may find that the organizations offer a camp or summer program. Day Trips If a parent is off for the summer, then day trips may be a possibility. Schedule a few day trips to different locations that the kids are excited to see. Newspapers routinely print “Go See It” or “Just Go” listings that highlight local events. The family can gather around the table and decide which outings would be interesting and then mark them on the calendar. Some parents purchase season passes to amusement parks and take the kids several times over the summer. In either case, bring snacks and lunch from home when possible to keep costs in check. Kid Swap Chances are many of your neighbors are also facing the same difficulties as they try to find ways for kids to spend their summer afternoons. Parents can get together and set up a schedule for entertaining the kids. For example, one parent is responsible for the whole lot one day, while the next day another parent takes a turn. This gives parents the opportunity to take a break from parental responsibilities and enjoy some quiet time. And for the children, time spent in a pool, watching movies, playing video games, or riding bikes is often more enjoyable with friends in tow. Fun Projects Children often want to feel useful, and may enjoy the responsibility of some easy tasks in and around the house -- so long as the tasks are fun. Washing the car with a hose and a bucket of sudsy water is a fun way to cool off during the hot summer days and get a chore done. While parents should not expect a perfect job, they can rest assured that the kids will have at least an hour of fun in the sun and water. When school lets out for the summer, many parents are left searching for ways to keep children entertained in the ensuing months. Summer vacation often starts with high expectations. Children are excited about the prospect of fun days outdoors playing with friends, while parents anxiously await relaxing months without the responsibilities of school and extracurricular clubs. But once summer vacation arrives and the first few days have passed, parents often find that the litany of cheers and giggles transform into a chorus of “I’m bored.” Many parents pore over ideas that will keep their children busy throughout the summer. Many activities that come to mind tend to be expensive, so if cutting costs is a priority, parents might need to think outside the box to come up with entertaining ideas that won’t break the bank. Camp Summer camp is a popular way for kids to spend their summers, but many camps are expensive.The American Camp Association has found that overnight camps can cost anywhere from $325 to $780 a week. Day camp fees may be $100 to $275 per week. Parents who send their children to camp for an entire season might pay anywhere from $3,000 to $9,000 for the seven- to nine-week program. Parents looking for an alternative to costly camps should consider local programs that offer summer activities. Libraries, schools and childcare centers may have programs that run the length of summer and are considerably less expensive than Set aside a patch of the yard that children can turn into their own personal gardens. Encourage digging in this area and provide seeds or seedling plants as well as kid-sized gardening tools. Each day the kids can check on the progress of their gardens. Some home-improvement and craft stores sponsor free learning activities for children. They can be held in the morning or afternoon and will teach interesting skills that can be put to use again at home. Summer vacations are soon to arrive, and parents can be armed with a list of enjoyable -- yet inexpensive -- ways to keep kids busy. 8 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Things to consider before choosing a summer camp fun specialized camps, ask the staff representative if kids will have the chance to simply have a little fun and which types of recreational activities are planned to give kids a break from what are often rigorous schedules. Summer camp is often something kids look forward to, and something they will fondly recall long after they reach adulthood. For many kids, summer camp provides a first taste of independence, as youngsters spend significant time away from home without their parents for the first time in their lives. But as great an experience as summer camp can be for youngsters, it can be just as difficult an experience if parents don’t find the right fit for their children. That’s why it behooves parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids in winter, before camps start filling out their rosters, which tends to happen in early spring. The following are a few things parents should take into consideration when seeking a summer camp for their kids. Camp goals Another thing parents must consider before choosing a summer camp for their kids is the goals of each individual camp. A camp should be dedicated to ensuring kids have fun, even when kids are attending more specialized camps that tend to be more strict. In addition, parents should look for a camp that wants its attendees to foster relationships with their fellow campers. Camp can be lonely for some youngsters, especially those attending summer camp for the first time, but a summer camp that strives to promote friendship among its campers can reduce, if not eliminate, any feelings of homesickness. Staff The right summer camp staff can make all the difference. Many children are understandably shy when arriving at a summer camp, as their friends from back home might not be joining them. That can make kids hesitant to participate in activities or less enthusiastic about those activities. But a good staff will know how to make kids feel welcome, which should help them come out of their shells and make the most of their summer camp experiences. The quality of staffs can vary significantly depending on the camp, so it’s important that parents ask camp representatives about their staffs before making any commitments. Ask how long the staff has been together and the types of training new and even veteran staff members undergo before the start of camp season? Does the training include first aid and emergency medical training and certification? It’s also good to ask about the vetting process the camp employs before hiring new staff, including the Late winter is when parents should start looking at summer camps for their kids, and there are a host of factors moms and dads should take into consideration during the vetting process to ensure their youngsters have as much fun as possible. extent of its background checks. Are criminal background checks conducted? How many references must potential staff members supply to be considered for employment? A good camp will be forthcoming with answers to all of your questions, so eliminate those that appear hesitant to share information about their staffs. A day in the life When vetting camps for kids, parents should ask what a typical day is like once the season hits full swing. Many parents want their youngsters to have a well-rounded experience, while others might want their kids to attend a more specialized camp, whether it’s a sports camp focusing on a particular sport or a music camp devoted to helping kids become better musicians. Regardless of the type of camp parents are considering for their kids, they should ask about what daily life at the camp is like. Ask to see schedules and how strictly camps adhere to those schedules. When considering SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 9 BABY PAGEANT Deadline: Saturday May 28, 2016 Summer Workshop for Kids 2016 REGISTER NOW ! ENTRY FEE $45.00 This Summer Become A Master Of Disguise, A Jack Of All Trades & A Camilleon! Children’s Sign-Up for: Beauty Pageant, photogenic & other categories available. Boys & Girls must be ages 1 month old to 10 years old JUNE 6 - JULY 1 Fun & Exciting Events, Competitions, Trophies, Awards & Great Prizes "Above All Baby Pageant Headquarters" Event will be taken place at: McAllen Convention Center June 12, 2016 Texas Star Business Center 5205 S. Veterans Blvd. Ste B • Edinburg, TX (956) 223-8844 Mon-Fri 3pm-8pm • Saturdays 10am-3pm • Sundays Closed Birthday Parties, Family Reunions & more! PERFORMANCES: MORNING SESSION 9:30AM - 12PM CHILDREN AGES 7-12 YRS OLD We provide an experience like no other! (956) 778-7293 lasertagsouthtexas.com Email: [email protected] JULY 1, 2, 3 AFTERNOON SESSION 1PM - 3:30PM CHILDREN AGES 7-12 YRS OLD SECOND SESSION: JUNE 11 - AUG 5 Celebrate Your Next Event With Us! Specializing in mobile laser tag, archery tag, water tag, portable miniature golf and foam parties. SESSIONS WILL INCLUDE: FIRST SESSION: PERFORMANCES: MORNING SESSION 9:30AM - 12PM CHILDREN AGES 7-12 YRS OLD AUG 5, 6, 7 AFTERNOON SESSION 1PM - 3:30PM CHILDREN AGES 13-17 YRS OLD • ACTING • CHOREOGRAPHY • STAGE CRAFT • SET PAINTING • COSTUMING • LIVE PERFORMANCES Four Week Session for only $200 REGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 3RD, 2016 CALL (956) 542-8900 TO REGISTER OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.camilleplayhouse.org TO COMPLETE FORM 10 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 How to foster a love of reading in children Today’s parents know that it’s not always easy to instill a love of reading in children. Whether they are watching television, dabbling with their smartphones, toying with their tablets or engaging in social media, youngsters now have more distractions at their disposal than ever before. So it’s no surprise that many youngsters may not be too enthusiastic about abandoning their gadgets in exchange for curling up with a good book. But instilling a love of reading in kids early on can pay a lifetime of dividends. Children learn at a much faster pace during their first six years than at any other time in their lives, and the right kind of stimulation during these years can provide the foundation for future learning. In addition, reading at an early age can inspire a child’s creativity and imagination. Though many parents can recognize these benefits, that recognition does not make it easier to get kids to embrace reading. No two kids are alike, so parents might need to employ different strategies to get each of their kids to embrace reading. But the following are a handful of ways parents can foster a love of reading in their youngsters. * Embrace their hobbies. When encouraging kids to read, parents may find it easier to get them to pick up a book if that book’s subject matter pertains to a favorite hobby or something a youngster has expressed interest in. A seven-year-old boy with a passion for baseball will FREE SHAKE OR MALT likely be more inclined to read an age-appropriate novel about America’s pastime than he will a book about fishing. Use youngsters’ enthusiasm about a given hobby or interest to lay the foundation for a love of reading. * Don’t limit reading to books. Books are not the only reading materials that can foster a love of reading in kids. Local newspapers and magazines have sparked many kids’ initial foray into reading, and such source materials can be just as inspiring as novels or short stories. Magazines made for youngsters give kids something they can start and finish reading in the same day. Young boys might want to read the sports page in the daily newspaper or visit a favorite team’s website to learn all about last night’s game, while young girls might be more inclined to read the arts and entertainment sections. Parents should encourage such exploration, even if it means leaving novels on the bookshelf for the time being. * Read to youngsters. Another way to foster a love of reading in youngsters is to read to them every day. Many young kids just learning to read may be discouraged if their reading skills aren’t progressing rapidly. Reading to kids every day can inspire them to work harder at reading so they can be just as good at reading as Mom and Dad. Bring this coupon in for a FREE SHAKE OR MALT* With the purchase of a Gourmet Burger, Chicken Entrée, Salad or Wrap. Shake classic size. 409 S. JACKSON RD. • PHARR, TX. 956-782-7121 OFFER EXPIRES AUGUST 31ST 2016 * Discuss reading materials with your children. Many people enjoy talking about books they have read as much as they enjoy reading the books, and kids are no different. Parents who want their youngsters to embrace reading can initiate discussions about what their kids are reading, discussing the plot of novels or the details of newspaper or magazine articles kids read. Ask them what they like and dislike about a book or ask for a recap of a story they read in the newspaper or an article they read in a magazine. * Extend the reading experience. After they have finished a novel, adults often find it enjoyable to watch films based on that novel. Doing so extends the reading experience and gives men and women a chance to see if their interpretations of a given story were similar or different from someone else’s. Kids enjoy such extensions as well, so reward kids by taking them to the movies to see the film version of a favorite book or to a museum that’s displaying an exhibit that’s relevant to a book a youngster just read. Though their youngsters may have many distractions at their disposal, there are still many ways for parents to foster a love of reading in their children. SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 11 Weeknight activities the whole family can enjoy Many families have their own routines on weeknights. Kids may tackle their homework before dinner, and once everyoneÕs plate is clean, family members may spend time together or go their separate ways, spending time online with friends or watching their favorite television programs on the couch. Parents who feel their weeknights donÕt include enough family time are often on the hunt for more family-friendly activities the whole family can enjoy even if everyone has to go to work or school the next day. The following are a handful of family-friendly weeknight activities that can bring families closer together. • Movie night: Family movie night is a tradition for many families, and parents who want to spend more time together as families may find that movie night is a great way to share a few laughs or even facilitate discussions about important topics broached in certain films. Each week let a different family member pick that weekÕs movie and ask him or her to explain his or her choice and why they think itÕs a film the whole family will enjoy. Let the kids join you as you get the popcorn ready or make special treats to enjoy while the movie is playing. • Family walk: Walking is a great way for par- ents to instill a love of physical activity in their children, and nightly walks also make great opportunities for families to leave their devices behind and discuss the goings-on in their lives. Weather permitting, take a family walk after dinner each night, which can help make your family healthier and strengthen the bonds between family members. • Writing activities: Another way families can escape their devices and resist the temptation of social media on weeknights is to get together for weekly writing sessions. Ask each family member to create brief lists on a range of topics, whether itÕs a list of favorite books or countries each person wants to visit or a bucket list of things each family member wants to do at one point in their lives. Allow about 15 minutes for each person to write his or her lists, and then discuss each personÕs list, including the inspiration behind each item that made it onto the lists. • Game night: Classic board games or games like checkers might not be as popular today as they were prior to the advent of the Internet, but that does not mean a night centered around such games does not still make for a very family-friendly evening. Stock up on some classic board games and share the re- sponsibility of choosing which game to play each week. Board games can take up to a few hours to play, and thatÕs a great opportunity for families to share some laughs without being interrupted by their devices. • Crafts night: Arts and crafts night is another great way for families to spend time together. Parents can choose age-appropriate projects NOW OPEN! Largest Outdoor Tactical Laser Tag Arena in South Texas Arcade 50+ Games! 36451 State Highway 100 Los Fresnos, TX 78566 (956) 233-2353 • www.bobzworld.com that can help kids and adults alike tap into their creative sides. Solicit ideas when planning crafts night so everyone feels like they played their part. Nights together as a family do not need to be limited to weekends. Parents willing to get a little creative can enjoy family-friendly evenings no matter what day it happens to be. 12 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Plan ahead for a fun day at the water park The search is on to find entertaining ways to fill the steamy dog days of summer. After days spent swimming in the pool or at the beach, adults and children alike may be looking for something new, and water parks are an ideal way to spend a summer afternoon. Such parks are not only adventurous, but they also make great ways to cool off when the mercury soars. As with any trip, preparation is necessary to make the most of your day at the water park. M Study the weather report. Summer weather can change in an instant. One moment it may be hot and sunny, while the next moment ominous thunderstorm clouds may soak anyone still outdoors. Many water parks shut down rides when there is thunder and lightning, and the park may close early if the weather is particularly bad. Double-check the weather report before making the trip so that your time and money is well spent. M Visit when the park is unlikely to be busy. Many parks are very busy during the summer, especially on the weekends when parents are not at work. So families who visit during the week might enjoy a less crowded park, which means shorter lines to get on Deborah Case DanCe aCaDemy June 6-10 June 6-17 June 13-17 annIe broaDway babIes DanCe Camp broaDway musICal DanCe Camp anna & elsa DanCe Camp 3-5yrs. 9:30am - 12:00pm $125.00 6-11yrs. 9:30am - 1:30pm $300.00 ages ages ages 3-5yrs. 9:30am - 12:00pm $125.00 Register NOW! Search the Internet to find out if the water park is offering any discounted tickets. Admission for a family of four can be expensive, but coupons or other discounts can cut those costs considerably. Find out if the park sells season passes, which will end up saving you money if you plan to visit the park on a regular basis. Certain amusement parks pair up with retailers and sponsors to offer discounts, so you may be eligible for discount tickets by dining out at a particular restaurant or collecting a coupon code from the back of a cereal box. M Measure the kids before you embark. Rides may have height restrictions. It is beneficial to understand these height limits so that you will know if your kids will be able to enjoy most of the attractions. In many parks, 42 to 48 inches is the magic number. Some parks may allow shorter, younger children to ride when accompanied by an adult. If your kids are too small, it may be better to wait until next season when they can enjoy more of the fun. M Get there early or very late. The parking lot at the water park may be as large as the park itself. Get to the park early to avoid parking miles away from the entrance. Know when the water park opens and be the first one in line, which affords you the luxury of the best parking spot and first choice for rides. If you’re not an early bird, visit the park just before closing. Crowds may have thinned out by then and the weather may be considerably cooler. guidelines as to which type of clothing can be worn. Bathing suits are usually a must, as they won’t get caught or tangled like shirts and shorts might. Choose brightly colored or patterned swimsuits so kids will stand out in the crowds. This will make it easier to keep them in your sights. Similarly, wear something that makes it easy for your children to find you should they get lost. Registration ends May 21 Deborah personally teaches all ballet classes! 5240 N. 10th Street, Suite 5 McAllen M Research coupons and discount codes. M Wear brightly colored bathing suits. Many water parks have strict st www.DCDa.Com the rides. Call ahead to inquire if any camps or large groups are scheduled to visit the park on a day you want to visit. 682-2721 M Invest in a waterproof money holder necklace. Chances are you will store many of your belongings in a locker so that you will not have to carry around too many items. But it is helpful to have a few dollars on hand for those times when lemonade or ice cream sundaes beckon, so purchase a waterproof necklace to secure and hold your money. M Bring along a change of clothing. Sitting around in a damp bathing suit, especially on the long car ride home, can be uncomfortable. Pack a change of clothes and different shoes. This way everyone will be dry, warm and comfortable. SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 13 M Continue to apply waterproof sunscreen. Water reflects the M Plan break times. M Study and explain the safety rules. Water parks are a summertime staple. With a few tips, visiting a water park with the family can be a safe and memorable outing. sun’s UV rays, making water park revelers highly prone to sunburn. Be sure to wear waterproof sunscreen and apply it continuously throughout the day to protect against painful skin damage. Water parks are frequently crowded, and children who wander off can easily become lost. As a family, go over safety precautions, including what to do in the event someone gets lost. Children can go to a park employee or a security guard and ask for help. Or suggest to your children that they go into any of the shops and tell the counter staff that they’re lost. Establish a meeting spot to enable everyone to gather together in the event of an emergency. The water park may be overwhelming, especially for tired, hungry children. So take breaks for snacks, lunch and even a few moments to just settle down and catch your breath. Did you know? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents get 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day. The CDC advises that such physical activity should include aerobic activity and muscle and bone strengthening exercises. Aerobic activity should take up most of kids’ daily physical activities and can include moderate activities, such as brisk walking, or more intense activities like running. Parents should make sure kids include some vigorous aerobic activity in their physical activity routines at least three days per week. Muscle strengthening activities do not mean parents should get their youngsters in the gym as soon as possible. Rather, activities like gymnastics or push-ups done three times per week can be enough to help kids build strong muscles. The CDC notes that as kids reach adolescence, they may start structured weight-training programs to strengthen their muscles. Jumping rope or running three times per week can serve as kids’ bone-strengthening exercises. VILLA MARIA Language Institute SISTERS OF THE INCARNATE WORD AND BLESSED SACRAMENT (956)546-7196 224 Resaca Blvd., Brownsville Tx. www.villamarialg.com • Music • Computers • Arts & Crafts • Videos • Games Water parks are a great way to spend a summer day staying cool and having some fun. Language Courses: English • Spanish • French JULY 11- AUG 5 MONDAY-FRIDAY • Field Trips 10:30 AM-3:OO PM • LOTS OF FUN! ALL AGES! 14 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Encourage a love of physical activity in youngsters According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, children and adolescents should engage in physical activity for 60 minutes or more each day. While fulfilling those requirements might not have been a problem for kids who grew up before the dawn of the Internet, nowadays kids are spending less time playing outside and more time on their computers or other devices. That reality is problematic for parents who want their kids to embrace physical activity thanks to the positive impact that exercise can have on kids’ physical and mental well-being. Parents hoping to instill a love of physical activity in their youngsters may find that taking a more active role by exercising with their kids is an effective way to get them off the couch and away from their computer screens. • Turn errands into exercise opportunities. Many parents take their children along with them when running errands. When such errands don’t necessarily require the use of a car, consider riding bicycles instead. Kids who otherwise don’t enjoy errands may now find them more fun, all the while fulfilling their daily recommended quotas for exercise and spending quality time with their parents. • Include kids in your own athletic pursuits. Parents might not be able to take younger kids along with them to the gym, but that does not mean your youngsters must be excluded from all of your athletic pursuits. If you have any upcoming athletic activities or challenges on your sched- June 1st - July 1st Early Registrations starts: May 16th Registration ends: June 20th Children’s programs daily at 2:00 p.m. Teen Programs on the 6th, 9th, 16th and 23rd Adult programs 6th, 9th. and 20th Grand Finale Celebration - July 1st Presenters: Author Xavier Garza, Wrestling Revolution-Lucha Libre, Magic Dork John O’Bryant. and much more. (956)565-2371 • 434 South Ohio Avenue, Mercedes Texas ule, such as a new recreational sports season or community fun run or 5K, let kids tag along as you train or practice. Parents of adolescents can inquire at their local gyms if they offer discounted memberships to teens. If so, take kids along with you on trips to the gym so they learn the value and benefits of daily strength and conditioning exercises. • Make more time to play. Parents may already have busy schedules, but finding time to play with their kids is a great way to get youngsters to embrace physical activity. Kids might be reluctant to shoot hoops in the driveway if no one is willing to join them, but they will likely be far more willing to do so if mom and dad are willing to play with them. This is not only a good way for parents to ensure their kids get enough exercise, but also a great and fun way for moms and dads to make time for physical activity. • Recognize that physical activity does not have to mean organized sports. Some kids have no interest in team sports while others do not have the athletic ability to compete after a certain age. Parents who want their kids to exercise more should recognize that there are plenty of ways to be physically active that do not involve organized team sports. Hiking; riding bicycles; swimming at a nearby pool, lake or ocean; and even going for nightly walks are all physical activities that people of all ages and athletic abilities can enjoy. Physical activity is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. While getting kids to put down their tablets and gaming system remote controls may not be easy, parents who resolve to exercise with their children might find their youngsters more receptive to regular physical activity. SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 15 Keep kids engaged through summer vacation “Summer Slide” is a term parents may hear at the end of the school year. No, it doesn’t have anything to do with playground activities. Rather, “summer slide” refers to knowledge gained during the school year that may be lost over the duration of summer break. The National Summer Learning Association says many students lose about two months of grade-level equivalency in math computation skills over the summer. Students tend to score lower on standardized tests after summer vacation than they do when the same tests are taken at the onset of summer. Minds left to sit idle can haunt children when it’s time to return to the classroom. But parents who engage kids throughout the summer and reinforce educationally sound activities can prevent summer slide. • Make vacations educational. Visit a locale kids have studied in class and explore its culture and traditions. • Offer plenty of reading materials. Reading can expand children’s minds and help them build and maintain their vocabulary. • Ask teachers for work packets. Students can stay on top of their studies by doing some light schoolwork throughout the summer. This can reinforce lessons kids have already learned and keep their minds sharp. • Purchase a journal. Encourage kids to write about their summer adventures in a journal. Chances are their teachers will ask about summer vacations and may require an essay when students return to school. 2016 SCHEDULE 10AM-3PM 10 One Week Sessions June 6th - August 12th Ages 6 to 15 This summer will be incredible! • Violin • Guitar • Piano Tuition $150 per week Scholarships Available Students Will Receive Both Art & Music Instruction 10% DISCOUNT 660 E. RINGGOLD ST. BROWNSVILLE, TX • PH: (956) 542-0941 [email protected] WWW.BMFA.US for BMFA Members 16 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 17 Point Blank Summer Archery Camp is Back! Participants will learn the fundamentals of archery in a classroom environment, as well as learn hands on how to shoot compound bow. • Week1 - May 30th - June 3rd • Week2 - June 6th - June 10th • Week3 - June 13th - June 17th • Week4 - June 20th - June 24th • Week5 - June 27th - July 1st Students will finish off camp on Friday with a friendly tournament in which parents will be invited to attend. Camps are Monday - Friday • Week6 - July 4th - July 8th • Week7 - July 11th - July 15th 9am to 12pm (Snack and drink will be provided daily) • Week8 - July 18th - July 22nd $125.00 for a one week camp • Week9 - July25th - July 29th (All equipment will be included) Ages: 8+ 407 N. Jackson Rd • Pharr 956.992.8799 Join The Team Mon-Sat. 9am to 9pm Sun. 12pm to 6pm www.pointblanksg.com 18 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Summer camp options abound Summer camp is a beloved tradition in many families. Many parents of young children fondly recall spending their summers at summer camp, where they made lifelong friends and learned the finer points of roasting marshmallows and competing in three-legged sack races. others are day camps. Parents looking for the right summer camp for their kids will soon discover there are various types of summer camps, each offering youngsters something different. The following are some of the summer camp options parents can expect to encounter as they search for the right camper for their kids. Family camps Family camps are opportunities for the whole family to enjoy the summer camp experience. Family camps typically tailor their activities around tasks families can complete together, with counselors providing assistance when it’s needed. Family camps may be faith-based or secular, and families typically stay overnight, sleeping in facilities on the campsites or in lodging away from home. Day camp Day camps are not overnight camps, which means kids will return home each night rather than sleep over at camp. Day camps typically offer many of the activities people have come to associate with camps, including crafts, sports and even day-trips to experience local culture or attractions. Many day camps are co-ed, and counselors typically live within the community. Faith-based camp Faith-based camps offer many of the same activities as more traditional summer camps, but do so while simultaneously offering campers the opportunity to celebrate and further explore their religious beliefs. Some faithbased camps may focus heavily on religion, Special needs camps incorporating faith into daily camp activities, while others may be more subtle with regard to integrating religious beliefs and lessons into camp activities. Sports camps Some summer camps focus on a particular DANCENTRE OF EDINBURG Official School Of Edinburg Dance Theatre WAIANNAU VED L RE IF R GIST EGIS RAT TER ION ED B FEE Y MA Y1 Summer Primary Sessions June 6 - July 31, 2016 2016 Summer Intensive June 6 - June 30, 2016 starts june 6, 2016 summer music camp Group Classes Ages 4-15 Beginner • Intermediate • Advanced HALF-DAY 9 AM - 12:30 • FULL DAY 9 AM-5 PM AGES 3 - ADULT • BEGINNER - ADVANCED Piano • Guitar • Voice Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Tumbling, Folk, Acting, Voice, Make-Up, Crafts 2750 HEDFELT • EDINBURG • 956-38-DANCE WWW.DANCENTREOFEDINBURG.COM sport, catering to young athletes who want to further develop their athletic talents. Sports camps may feature guest lectures and lessons from notable local athletes and coaches, while some camps may provide instruction from current and/or former professional athletes. Some sports camps are overnight, while Parents of children with special needs can still send their kids to summer camp, as there are many camps that cater to such youngsters. Special needs camps may cater to campers who are blind, deaf, learning disabled, or mentally or physically disabled. Staff at special needs camps typically undergoes extensive training, which helps to calm some of the fears parents may have about leaving their special needs children at camp. Facilities at special needs camps are often built to accommodate the specific needs of campers. SBEC - ABT NATIONAL TRAINING CURRICULUM CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS summer band camp PrIVATE lESSonS! Band Camp & Strings Drums All Ages Welcome - All Instruments! 956-599-4529 1607 E Griffin Pkwy, Ste. B • Mission, TX 78572 2016 SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 19 SUMMER PROGRAM WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE MADE SUMMER SPORTS: $50 MA-95217360 VOLLEYBALL: AGES: 6-12 BASEBALL: AGES: 3-12 TRACK: AGES: 5-18 GOLF : AGES: 5-18 Experience some summer fun in our Arts & Crafts Room, Movie Room, Game Room, Rec Room and our Fitness Hour. 2 Meals provided (Breakfast & Lunch) Monday thru Thursday from 8am-4pm. Weekly presenters like Palmview PD, Palmview Fire Dept. etc. SESSION I JUNE 6TH- JUNE 29TH SESSION II JULY 5TH – JULY 29TH $50 each Session Registrations are from May 2nd-May 31st • 2pm-7pm 406 W. Veterans Blvd. Palmview, Tx (956) 432-0310 20 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Teaching kids to swim Swimming is a popular activity once temperatures heat up. Millions of people flock to beaches to dip their toes in the water, and scores more spend afternoons exploring the depths of backyard pools. Swimming is a popular activity once temperatures heat up. Millions of people flock to beaches to dip their toes in the water, and scores more spend afternoons exploring the depths of backyard pools. for swimming. At this point, parents can register children for swimming lessons with trained instructors. • Wait before submerging kids. The American Red Cross says to wait until a child is around age three before submerging him or her under the water. Young kids can swallow a lot of water, which can be dangerous. Sputtering water also may turn a child off to swimming completely. Upon being introduced to the water, younger children may be somewhat apprehensive, as swimming in pools or oceans can be intimidating to youngsters. Parents should exercise extreme caution when teaching kids to swim, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that more than one in five fatal drowning victims are children under the age of 14. Although swimming can be dangerous, experts in pediatric and adolescent medicine affirm that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning considerably. Children whose parents swim may be eager to join mom and dad in the pool. The following are some tips for parents as they start to develop a plan to teach their kids to swim. • Wait until the child is developmentally ready. The MA-95217356 American Association of Pediatrics recommends that parents wait until after a child’s fourth birthday to teach them how to swim. This is when children have developed enough to understand commands and have the motor skills required his or her body and face. Kids can sit with adults on pool steps or retrieve toys from within reach. An adult always should be nearby. • Begin in calm water. The open ocean can be daunting, even to adults. So it might be better to begin swimming lessons in a calm body of water, such as a lake or pool. • Invest in formal swimming lessons. Parental perceptions • Introduce playing in the water early on. Parents should make sure their children grow accustomed to playing in the water. Many kids start to like the water around the time they become toddlers, when bathing introduces them to splashing and bobbing toys. Use these opportunities to take your child into the water, so he or she acclimates to feeling the water on and anxieties may interfere with parents’ abilities to properly teach their children how to swim. Therefore, hire third-party professional instructors to teach kids to swim. The Red Cross can put you in touch with certified swimming instructors who also are knowledgeable in first aid. As children become more confident in the water, they can practice swimming strokes and submerging themselves for underwater swimming. SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 21 SUMMER PIANO CAMPS THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS RIO GRANDE VALLEY FOR BEGINNING & NON-BEGINNING STUDENTS “WAY COOL” KEYBOARDING One Week Camps June & July 956-686-4863 S U MMER SESSIONS nationally recognized program REGISTER NOW! state of the art digital pianos JUNE 6- 17 fun, engaging & creative environment JUNE 20 - JULY 1 experienced and dedicated teachers JULY 5 - 15 JULY 18 - 29 7 Ages 4-1 900 Harvey @ N. 10th - McAllen EveryLifeNeedsMusic.com/Camps The Heritage Museum at Falfurrias 515 N. St. Mary St. Falfurrias, Texas 78355 361-325-2907 01 LEARN TO SWIM + WATERBABY June 6 - June 23, 2016 June 27 - July 14, 2016 03 AQUATICS PROGRAMS July 18 - August 4, 2016 UTRGVUREC [email protected] 02 [email protected] (956) 665-7808 utrgv.edu/urec Museum Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Closed Sunday - Monday Federal Holidays State Holidays 22 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Help kids learn the game of golf Adults who play golf know just how fun and frustrating the game can be. Whether you’re a veteran golfer or someone just learning the links, golf can be challenging. But as exacting as the game can be, it also can be just as rewarding, even for kids. Children who embrace the game of golf will learn a host of lessons they can apply in all facets of life. A humbling game even for professional golfers, golf can teach kids lessons in humility and the value of persistence even when things aren’t going your way. Golf is also a great way for parents to get kids off the couch and outdoors for some fun in the sun. Instead of spending summer afternoons in front of the television, kids who play golf are out patrolling pristine golf courses while getting some cardiovascular exercise along the way. Golf can also strengthen a child’s hand-eye coordination, which can help them in other activities, including many different sports. Though many people do not begin playing golf until they’ve reached adulthood, it’s never too early for boys and girls to start learning the game of golf. Parents of preschoolers can start their kids off with a toddler play set. Though it’s just a toy, a play set can help lay a solid foundation for future golfers. Kids who have watched Mom and Dad play golf or practice their swing can develop their own swings on their play set. As kids approach school age, don’t overlook the nearby putt-putt or miniature golf range as a valuable teaching tool. Miniature golf clubs are small enough for many children to use comfortably, and kids can use miniature golf courses as a place to put any lessons or advice on putting to good use. What’s more, a miniature golf course is more than just golf, with creative courses and other fun activities, so kids won’t feel overwhelmed with golf. When kids move on from preschool to elementary school, some might want to tag along with Mom or Dad to the driving range. You should try to avoid overwhelming kids with too much instruction or information. Instead, keep things as simple as possible, teaching them the basic swing and encouraging them no matter how quickly they adapt. As kids enter middle school and approach high school, those who are enjoying the game of golf can take advantage of the driving range if they haven’t already begun to. A driving range typically has markers that indicate the distance of a regular hole, regardless of which tee you will play from on an actual golf course. Kids can aim for holes at shorter distances to learn how far their drives are going. You can then adjust the lessons you teach your children based on how far youngsters can drive the ball. As a child gets closer to high school, you might want to buy the child his or her own set of clubs. Look for inexpensive clubs (oftentimes, thrift stores or other secondhand retailers have clubs for sale) because growing children will eventually grow out of their first set of clubs. When your child finds a set of clubs that suits him or her, teach the proper way to swing and consider signing up your son or daughter for lessons. Those first few lessons can prove invaluable, turning a pastime into a passion kids will carry with them throughout their lives. Dates: June 20-24, July 11-15, July 18-22 Drop off time is at 9:15 am Class is from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. Lunch is included. Weekly rate is $175.00 per week or $40.00 daily. Ages are from 4-15. 1.5 hour painting www.paintingwithatwist.com/McAllen Email: [email protected] 6400 N 10th St., Suite E • McAllen, TX • (956) 682-4887 SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 23 ARE YOU A HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT… SEEKING A CAREER IN THE VETERINARIAN FIELD? YOU CAN EARN A $1000 SCHOLARSHIP When thinking of a veterinarian career, you MUST have significant hands-on experience with animals. HERE is your chance! Workshops include: • Veterinarians & Vet Techs Watch them work & hear what they have to say • Equine Chiropractor and Therapist Learn the horse’s body and function • Horse Farrier Learn about shoeing for performance and lameness’s • Horse Trainer Get hands on Experience • Equine Aqua Therapy and Rehab Observe and practice • Equine Injury Rehabilitation & Conditioning First hand experience • Daily Care & Exercise, Wound Care and More Get hands on skills and experience • Equine Nutrition, Health and Wellness Learn to formulate diets & administer medications • Research Equine Seizures, Blindness, Colic, Lameness & Dental Care Gain real knowledge *Only accepting the first 16 applicants* We ensure that you will receive the most experience possible. Get the hands-on experience and knowledge to have the competitive advantage when applying for vet school. 6 Week Course – 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday 5:30pm – 8:30pm JHK Equestarian Country Club, South Edinburg TX BR-85106875 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MAY 11TH $100 deposit & 4 payments of $250 ORIENTATION: May 12th or May 14th @ 6:30pm RSVP by: May 11th (Email: [email protected]) MAIL REGISTRATION & DEPOSIT TO: 5111 N. 10th St., #284 McAllen, TX 78504 CONTACT: Jami @ (956) 292-3318 COURSE SCHEDULE June 13 - 15 Week 1 June 20 - 22 Week 2 June 27- 29 Week 3 July 4 - 6 No class July 11 - 13 Week 4 July 18 - 20 Week 5 July 25- 27 Week 6 August 1 - 3 Make-up Missed Classes Award Dinner August 13 Hours Completion Certificate Letter of Recommendation and Other Special Awards REGISTRATION NAME _____________________________________ AGE ______________________________________ ADDRESS _________________________________ ___________________________________________ PHONE ____________________________________ EMAIL ____________________________________ 24 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Keeping kids active once the school year ends In many ways, today’s kids have busier schedules than any previous generation of youngsters. Many extracurricular activities, including sports, require a nearly year-round commitment, and the dual-income household has landed many kids in after school programs where kids tend to their schoolwork or engage in various activities that keep them from resting on their laurels. But those busy schedules get a lot less hectic when the school year ends. Once school is out, kids used to a full schedule might find themselves with lots of time on their hands. Though it’s good for kids to squeeze in some rest and relaxation during their summer break, it’s also important for kids to stay active so they don’t develop poor habits as the summer goes on. In addition, the American Psychological Association notes that kids who are physically active are more capable of coping with stress and tend to have higher self-esteem than kids who do not include physical activity as part of their regular routines. The following are a few suggestions for parents looking for ways to keep their kids active throughout the summer while still allowing them to recharge their batteries after a long school year. * Plan an active vacation. Summer is when many families go on vacation, so why not choose a vacation that involves more than napping pool side? Though it’s still good to leave some time for relaxation, find a locale where you can embrace activities like snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, or other adventures that get you and your youngsters off the pool side chaise and out exploring. Such a trip might inspire kids to embrace an activity more fully, getting them off the couch not only while they’re on vacation but also when they return home for the rest of summer. * Teach kids to garden. Gardening might be seen as a peaceful and relaxing hobby, but it still requires a lot of elbow grease and hard work that pays physical dividends. A garden must be planted, hoed, weeded, and watered, and gardening gets kids out of the house to enjoy the great outdoors. When growing a vegetable garden, kids might embrace the chance to be directly involved in the foods that will eventually end up on their dinner tables. Parents can embrace this as an opportunity to teach the value of eating locally-produced foods and the positive impact such behavior has on the environment. KIDS SUMMER PROGRAM 2016 JUNE 6 - AUG 19 Sundowners Every Thursdays at 5:30 PM $25 entry fee 9yrs & Under $100 13yrs - 18yrs $150 CALL FOR TEE TIME! 956.316.0444 1720 S. RAUL LONGORIA RD. EDINBURG * Go swimming. Few adults who work in offices haven’t looked out their windows on a sunny summer day and thought how nice it would be to be spending that afternoon making a few laps in a lake, at the beach or in a pool. Kids have the same daydreams during the summer, so take a day off every so often and take the kids for an afternoon of swimming. Swimming Swimming is a fun and healthy exercise to keep kids physically active throughout the summer. is a great activity that exercises the entire body, including the shoulders, back, legs, hips, and abdominals. In addition, swimming helps kids and adults alike maintain a healthy weight while also improving their cardiovascular health. It’s hard for some people to find a place to swim once the warm weather departs, so take advantage of the summer weather and go swimming as often as possible while the kids are not in school. * Limit how much time kids spend watching television, playing video games or surfing the Internet. Many of today’s kids are as tech savvy as they are busy. But it’s important that kids don’t spend too much time online or on the couch watching television or playing video games. Such activities are largely sedentary, and they can set a bad precedent for the months ahead, even when the school year begins once again. Parents should limit how much time their youngsters spend in front of the television or the computer during summer vacation, keeping track and turning the TV or computer off if they suspect kids are spending too much time staring at the screen instead of being active. Kids might not love it when you turn their video games off or minimize their access to social media, but explain the limitations at the onset of summer and let kids know you expect them to be physically active even if it is summer vacation. g , t r r o g e t n , n t n k e g s e t SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 25 Summer Camp Activitives • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Indoor Games • Tumbling • Basketball • Volleyball • Soccer • Ballet • Jazz Hip-Hop Classes • Coloring/Chats • Break Time Snacks Register now for summer camp right here at Jing’s Gymnastics and let’s flip, tumble, cheer, play soccer, volleyball, and other activities to have a fun time! Get your friends together and come to Jing’s! Summer Camp #1: June 6th - 17th Summer Camp #2: June 20th - July 1st Summer Camp #3: July 5 th - 15th Summer Camp #4: July 18th - 29th Summer Camp #5: August 1st - 12th Class Schedule Online Jingsgymnastics.com 600 N. Conway, Mission TX 956-585-4967 Summer Morning Camp 9am-12pm or to 3pm Afternoon summer classes 4:15pm - 8:30pm Hurry - sign up now space is limited. Each Camp is limited to 20 students. Register Now! Office Hours: Morning camps and After Classes Birthday Parties Available! *Now Hiring: Cheerleader & Gymnastics Coaches 1817 Mozell St., Pharr TX 956-702-4967 • 956-533-8828 26 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 How to help kids choose an extracurricular activity Today’s kids are busier than ever before. Commitments in the classroom coupled with a full slate of extracurricular activities have ensured that many of today’s school-aged children don’t have a minute to spare. While it’s important for kids to embrace extracurricular activities, parents know it’s not always easy helping kids find the right activity that allows them to grow outside the classroom while still focusing on their responsibilities inside it. In addition, kids’ interests tend to change at the drop of a hat, so something they want to do today might bore them come tomorrow. To help kids choose and manage their extracurricular activities, consider the following tips. * Emphasize that schoolwork must come first. Kids get excited about extracurricular activities, especially ones involving sports where they get to spend time playing with their friends. But parents should emphasize that school still comes first and that, if schoolwork starts to suffer, participation in extracurricular activities will be put on hold until kids get their studies back on track. * Go over coursework at the start of the school year. Examine a child’s course load before choosing an extracurricular activity. It’s important to do this each year, as coursework gets more difficult as children get older. Just because a child could handle a couple of after school activities a week when he or she was in fifth grade does not mean such a schedule will be as manageable when the same child reaches high school. Go over coursework and requirements as early as possible, preferably before the school year starts, so you and your child can get a grip on what can and can’t be handled with regards to extracurricular activities. * Get a grasp of the commitment required of a given activity. Extracurricular activities require various levels of commitment. Varsity sport participation, for example, typically requires daily commitment and often requires kids to participate on weekends or even the sport’s “off-season,” which may include summer vacation. However, volunteering with a local charity likely won’t require such a large commitment and such charities often allow volunteers to choose their own schedules. Parents and their children should consider the level of commitment an extracurricular requires and choose the activity they’re most comfortable with. * Don’t overlook the social benefits of extracurricular activities. When helping kids choose an extracurricular activity, it’s important to leave the ultimate decision in their hands. After all, kids won’t get much of the experience if they’re reluctant to participate. However, parents should not overlook the social benefits of extracurricular activities. Consider those benefits when helping kids choose activities, especially if they’re likely to choose solitary activities like learning a musical instrument. It’s good to encourage such interests, but also try to encourage a balance between solitary activities and ones that encourage socialization with peers, such as a sports team, debate club or volunteering with other students at a local charity. * Don’t forget the fun factor. Extracurricular activities are not just supposed to instill character, they’re also supposed to be fun. If kids aren’t having fun or showing any interest in a given extracurricular activity, then help them find another one. Kids need time to have fun away from school just like adults need time for fun away from the office. Weigh how enjoyable a given activity figures to be for your youngster before signing them up. Certain extracurricular activities, including sports, require larger commitments than others. SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 27 This summer MHM will present The Historical Mystery Tour: a tour that will provide children the opportunity to visit and learn about the city’s historic sites through exhibits, informational tours, special presentations, reenactments, hands on activities, and a mystery scavenger hunts. This program will begin June 7 and concludes June 23; Tuesday-Thursday. Sites include: H 1. Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church 2. La Lomita Chapel 3. NABA Butterfly Center – Oblate Trail 4. William Jennings Bryan Home 5. Shary Mansion 6. Gregg Wood Home 7. Border Theatre 8. La Lomita Chapel - End of Program Celebration r o i t c al s i Mystery Tour Our Historical Mystery Tour Summer Programs are FREE for Museum Members or $30 per child for the full three week session. Family memberships may be purchased for $50 for the year and will allow up to four kids per family to enroll in our Summer Programs. Any additional kids per family may purchase a $10 student membership to attend the programs. For more information on memberships please contact Linda Castaneda at 956-580-8646 Date Time Field Trips Activities June 7, 2016 June 8, 2016 June 9, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Museum Museum Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Hands on Activities Hands on Activities Tour and Hands on Activity June 10, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm La Lomita Tour and Historical reenactment Space is limited. June 14, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm NABA Butterfly Center Oblate Trail Hands on Activities Registration starts May 2, 2016 and ends May 27, 2016 June 15, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm William Jenning Bryan’s Home Tour and Hands on activity June 16, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Shary Mansion Tour and Historical reenactment June 21, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Gregg Wood Home Tour and Scavenger Hunt June 22, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Border Theater Tour and Hands on Activity June 23, 2016 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm La Lomita End of Summer Program Celebration. Father Roy: Stories of the oblate fathers 28 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 Prevent mouth injuries during summer sports fun Here are some additional sports safety tips to consider to reduce young athletes’ risk of injury. The warm weather beckons children outside to play. Whether they participate in organized sports or enjoy pick-up games with friends, sports are a way to remain physically active and pass the days of summer in a fun way. A variety of leading oral health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association, have teamed up to remind parents, coaches and athletes to play safely when they’re playing sports. * Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports. Mouth guards can help prevent injury to a person’s jaw, mouth and teeth, and they are significantly less expensive than the cost to repair an injury. Dentists and dental specialists can make customized mouth guards to provide the best fit. Other lessexpensive options are the boil and bite mouth guards, which are softened in boiling water to fit the mouth, and stock mouth guards, which are ready-to-wear but may not fit as well as their customized counterparts. A child or young adult’s mouth and face can be easily injured if the proper precautions are not used while participating in sports or recreational activities. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of the seven million sports- and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by children as young as five years old. In 2012, the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation forecasted that more than three million teeth would be knocked out in youth sporting events. They also reported that athletes who don’t wear mouth guards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth. Yet, in a survey commissioned by the American Association of Orthodontists, 67 percent of parents admitted that their children do not wear a mouth guard during organized sports. At a time when a good football helmet or hockey stick may cost a few hundred dollars, mouth guards remain inexpensive pieces of protective equipment. Mouth guards save teeth and protect the jaw. When a mouth guard is working properly, it will hold * Wear a helmet. Helmets absorb the energy of an impact and help prevent damage to the head. * Wear protective eyewear. Eyes are extremely vulnerable to damage, especially when playing sports. Mouth injuries during sports play can be prevented when athletes wear custom-fitted mouth guards. teeth in place, resist tearing and allow for normal speech and breathing. Rely on a dental professional to recommend a properly fitted mouth guard for a vast array of sporting activities. * Wear a face shield. Rely on a face shield to avoid damage to the delicate bones around the eyes, nose and jaw. Hockey pucks, basketballs and racquetballs can cause severe facial damage to athletes of any age. Summertime is an opportunity to engage in recreational sporting activities. Athletes of all ages should wear the appropriate safety gear while competing to greatly reduce their risk of injury. Summer Art Academy Continuing Education JUNE 6-JULY 1, 2016 $199 per person for one course. $550 per person for three courses (Includes materials). CLAY KIDS (ages 9-13) Tues., 3-5 p.m./Wed., 9-11 a.m. Students will focus on the basic techniques of clay. Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or an apron. YOUNG MONETS (ages 14 and up) Wed., 3-5 p.m./Thurs., 1-3 p.m. Students will create an art based on different techniques and be exposed to the rich history of art, which can be applied to their artwork. CLAY FOR TEENS (ages 14 and up) Tues., 9-11 a.m./Thurs., 9-11 a.m. Make mugs, bowls, masks, and plates. Also, get hands-on experience with slip trailing and glaze formulation. Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or an apron. KIDS PHOTOGRAPHY (ages 9-13) Wed. 11 a.m.-1 p.m./Tues., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Maximize the potential of your smartphone and create printable art showcasing your life and travels. Bring a laptop. You can edit and display with your fully charged phone or camera. ARTS & CRAFTS (ages 9-13) Tues., 1-3 p.m./Thurs., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Young artists can learn basic art skills such as finger-painting, drawing, watercolor, acrylic paint, cutouts, and more. It’ll be a lot of fun. PHOTOGRAPHY (ages 14 and up) Wed., 1-3 p.m./ Thurs., 3-5 p.m. Learn the basics of how to use the camera as well as tricks on how to use natural lighting to get the “look” you want. REGISTER AND PAY AT UTRGV.EDU/CE/PROGRAMS/THE-ART-ACADEMY SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 29 Embrace an active outdoor lifestyle Blue skies and warm weather entice people to enjoy the great outdoors. For many people, few things are more enjoyable than soaking up some rays and breathing in some fresh air. Check that your bike is in good working order and that the chain is freshly oiled. Take your bike to a local cycling shop for a tuneup if necessary. Verify the fit of helmets, especially on children who may have grown since the most recent cycling season. Moderate temperatures help make many outdoor activities that much more enjoyable. But even if the weather isn’t perfect, individuals can make the best of the situation and still get out of the house. As the seasons of warm weather return, those itching to get outside can explore these entertaining outdoor activities. Horseback riding Nature takes on an entirely different look when you are atop a horse. Horseback riding isn’t just for country folk or cowboys, and it can be a great workout as well as a recreational retreat. It takes balance, strong legs and quick reflexes to stay in a saddle. Hiking Those interested in horseback riding should visit a stable or riding academy nearby. You likely do not need to own a horse of your own, as riding schools and stables will have animals you can work with. Remember to wear the right clothing, including long pants and boots, for riding. A hat can shade you from the overhead sun, while a helmet is advisable for people new to the sport or those who want added protection. Thousands of miles of hiking trails crisscross North America. These trails include rough and rugged paths blazed across natural areas and long-distance trails that stretch over portions of the country. From the Appalachian Trail in the East to the Bigfoot Trail in the west, hikers and nature enthusiasts have plenty of trails to tread. Hiking is a great outdoor activity in part because it can be enjoyed by people of any age and just about any fitness level. Hikers can work up from relatively short and flat trails to more intense vertical and varied hikes. Local parks, government preserves and rural areas offer plenty of places to walk and hike. When hiking, it’s best to go in pairs. In the event anything occurs, such as an injury, the other hiker will be able to go for help. Hikers also should alert people at home as to their itineraries. Leave a map and plot out where you will be, especially if hikes take you off the beaten path. Remember to pack a portable snack and plenty of water. And when out in the sun, apply sunscreen and reapply as needed. Always arrive early so that you can familiarize yourself with your horse and have him or her get to know you. Approach the horse from the front left side. Horses are prey animals and can be skittish by nature, so a firm, calm greeting can reassure the animal. Biking Biking is another outdoor activity ideal for people of all ages and athletic abilities. Once you’ve learned to ride a bicycle, that ability stays with you, whether you ride a bike each day or haven’t taken one for a spin in years. Many towns and cities across the country have become much more bike-friendly in recent years, clearing space for biking paths and lanes even in the busiest metropolitan areas. And mountain bikers still have plenty of trails to traverse as well. These are just a few of the many outdoor activities people can enjoy when the weather warms up. Try taking exercise routines outdoors, such as running on a path instead of the treadmill. Swimming, walking, gardening, and sports activities are other fun ways to enjoy the great outdoors. 30 • SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 W ho t ’s i s t y r a F v ootbal t s e b l he Award presentations to the best and brightest varsity athletes Pla yer ? keynote speaker Drew Pearson fn Former Dallas Cowboys All Pro Wide Receiver do ut Catered Dinner Only $40 Per Person at th e Tickets on sale now... Tuesday June 14 • 6pm www.rgvsports.com DOUBLETREE SUITES McAllen FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: 956.683.4463 956.430.6235 956.969.2543 956.542.4301 SCHOOLS OUT SUMMER 2016 • 31 REGISTER TODAY! SAT/ACT PREP AT MMA »» MMA-TX.org/SATPrep »» 956.423.6006, ext. 861 »» [email protected] June 13-17, 2016 For Boys Entering Grades 9-12 Marine Military Academy offers an extraordinary summer day camp for college-bound boys: SAT/ACT Prep at MMA. Held the third week of June, SAT/ACT Prep at MMA offers young men four days of intensive study and practice for the SAT and ACT college admission tests and one day of serious outdoor fun! Attend SAT/ACT Prep at MMA ... and GET READY! MMA »» 320 Iwo Jima Blvd. »» Harlingen, TX 78550 »» 956.423.6006 LOCATION: Camp BB2, 2734 N. Coria Brownsville, TX. 78520 Activities offered: Cooking, Legos, Photography, Videography, Basketball, Soccer, Flag Football, Archery, Outdoor Fun & Games, Arts & Crafts, Painting, Designing Jewelry/Hair Wraps, Spa, Science Lab Rats, Cartooning and lots of Fun! Camp Dates: June 6-10 June 13-17 Camp Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:30pm BB2 Camp Tuition: $135 for 1 week or $220 for 2 weeks (includes snack & t-shirt) Registration Fee: $25 (non-refundable) Register before May 15th and receive a $5 voucher at our famous Freddy’s Concession Stand Extended Day Program: Monday - Friday 1:30pm - 3:00pm $40 per week or $10 per day (lunch included) ELIGIBILITY: Boys and Girls, Ages 6-12 LIMITED SPACES Registration Starts April 18th at Kenmont Office 2734 N. Coria Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 3:30 pm For more information contact Liliana De la Garza, [email protected], (956) 639-2918