Dallas weekly e-newsletter |
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Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers: The first time I can remember having to take a public stand on anything was in eighth grade English. We were assigned an essay on a controversial topic and told we’d present our arguments to the class. When he handed back our papers, Mr. Schmidt added a twist: no reading. We’d speak from notes. I was horrified. After school, I tried to negotiate my way out of it. “This
makes me really uncomfortable,” I told him, hoping for mercy. He looked at me over his glasses. “That’s the whole point,” he said. “To get stuff done, you have to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Don’t worry, you’ll live.” Mr. Schmidt was right. I didn’t die. And more important, I learned something that stuck: Discomfort isn’t a stop sign, it’s just part of the road, and all roads are bumpy. That lesson shaped how I've raised my kids, too. Karate helped
Madison and Ella distinguish between effort and injury. Long car rides taught them to rely on their own imaginations. Theater nudged them to stand however close to the spotlight they could manage, even when they’d rather disappear. And summer camps—those muddy, unpredictable, gloriously imperfect experiences—gave them countless chances to try something new and realize I can do this without the stigma that can accompany failing in other contexts. Growth rarely happens
inside the comfort zone, which is why I’m such a believer in giving kids opportunities to stretch beyond what feels easy. Summer programs are perfect for this, so that's why during "summer camp search season" we focus on showcasing the wide variety of camps and programs available in each area we serve. Here's the link to the
portal page. These days, as we approach the 25th anniversary of KidsOutAndAbout.com in June, I see that same principle playing out: The technology has changed, the business climate has changed, but the equation hasn’t. Discomfort still shows up right before something meaningful. And I still hear Mr. Schmidt’s voice in my head: Don’t worry, you’ll live.
—Debra Ross, publisher of KidsOutAndAbout.com, co-author of The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities
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KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
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Between school drop-offs, sports practices, work, and family life, many moms find themselves running on empty. Constant fatigue, brain fog, and stubborn weight changes can make even simple days feel overwhelming. But these symptoms aren’t always just about
a busy schedule. They’re often linked to metabolic imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, or hormonal shifts. At Lindora Preston Forest, we help families understand what’s happening inside their bodies through metabolic testing and medically guided wellness programs for adults and kids ages 12+. When moms regain their energy—and kids build healthy habits early—the entire family thrives.
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Adventure Kids Playcare Summer Camps are packed with creativity, friendship, and hands-on fun to keep kids engaged all summer long! Campers dive into dynamic group activities that build teamwork and collaboration while exploring their imaginations through
exciting maker projects. Each week features exciting themes like Grossology, Tropical Vibes Studio, Trendy Treats Lab, and Eras Art Tour, with activities that include glow parties, global adventures, art projects, marble maze building, and even robot creation. Along the way, campers also explore STEAM through cooking, baking, and fun experiments that spark curiosity and creativity. Camp runs daily from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, with before and after care available, and flexible options including
half-day, full-day, and flex passes. It’s a summer full of adventure, discovery, and fun in a safe, nurturing environment!
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This summer, kids can shine on stage with North Texas Performing Arts’ performing arts camps for grades K–8! Offered in Plano, Fairview, Frisco, Dallas, and Southlake, NTPA camps immerse students in acting, movement, improvisation, theatre games,
choreography, and hands-on visual art. Each age-appropriate session builds creativity, confidence, and collaboration while encouraging kids to explore characters and storytelling in a fun, supportive environment. Adaptive camps are available through NTPA Deaf Theatre and NTPA Starcatchers for Deaf students and students with disabilities, ensuring every child has a place to belong. All programs are guided by NTPA’s Ten Characters leadership values. New students receive 40% off their first camp.
Link: www.ntpa.org/camps
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Spring has officially arrived at Irving Mall! From March 20 through April 4, join us in the Burlington Center Court for a whimsical photo experience the whole family will love. Whether it’s your baby’s very first spring or a long-standing family tradition,
we’re ready to help you capture the magic (and yes — bring your furry friends on select dates!).
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Spring has officially sprung and we’re celebrating the First Day of Spring all weekend long at the Dallas Farmers Market! Join us for a fresh, feel-good weekend filled with local shopping, live music, hands-on kids activities, and nature-inspired fun. From
meeting fascinating wildlife to learning from a Master Gardener and soaking up sunny spring vibes, it’s the perfect way to welcome the season of growth and renewal with the whole family.
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POW! POP! CREATE! Spring Break gets a Pop Art remix at the Nasher. Inspired by Roy Lichtenstein’s bold graphics and Robert Rauschenberg’s inventive use of everyday materials, this weeklong celebration invites artists of all ages to see the extraordinary in
the ordinary.
Enjoy FREE all-ages programming featuring guest artists, interactive tours, collaborative projects, and hands-on art-making that encourages collecting, combining, and reimagining found materials in unexpected ways.
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The dragon exhibit at Heard Museum will give families & friends a fun, educational activity to enjoy together. See the dragons move & hear them roar!
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Calling all animal lovers – The Creature Teacher is coming back to PGA Frisco! This educational and interactive program is free and open to the public and no RSVP is required. Bring a blanket and join us on the Dance Floor Event Lawn near Ice House as we
learn all about a variety of animals, including lizards, snakes, chinchillas, and even a baby kangaroo!
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Get ready to celebrate the color of joy for the Holi Festival at Heritage Park! This Town-sponsored event, presented by the Denton County India Cultural Association, is free and open to all ages. Come experience the vibrant tradition of India's Festival of
Colors - where every hue tells a story. Enjoy color throwing, music, dancing, and delicious food as we celebrate unity and joy.
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Texas Forever Fest is a free celebration of the food, art, music, and people that make the Lone Star State unforgettable.
Our beautiful state is home to big skies and even bigger dreams and we’re throwing a party just as big as Texas. There’s no friendlier place than our home state, and we’re rolling out the welcome mat for everyone. Enjoy a full day of live music, entertainment, interactive activities, food, drinks, and vendors, all inspired by Texas’ rich and diverse culture.
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Step into an unforgettable evening under our Texas sky at Blackland Prairie Raptor Center’s Star Party on the Prairie where science, nature, and wonder collide.
Featuring telescopes and experts from the Texas Astronomical Society of Dallas, and a special constellation presentation by The Frontiers of Flight Museum.
Surrounded by the peaceful prairie and glowing constellations above, this family-friendly evening is perfect for curious kids, space lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the magic of the universe in a truly unique setting.
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DMA Spring Break—where stars align and creativity shines! Spark, connect, and create during these fun-filled days of art-making activities, story times, sensory play, and gallery activities for families, all inspired by our current exhibition
Constellations: Contemporary Jewelry at the Dallas Museum of Art.
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Feel the rush of the game as you test your reflexes, measure your kicking power, and explore the brain-body connection that drives top performance. Packed with interactive challenges, real-world science, and behind-the-scenes innovations, this experience
shows how curiosity, creativity, and teamwork make the world’s favorite game possible.
With FIFA World Cup 2026™ bringing global attention to North Texas, Soccer: More Than a Game celebrates soccer’s power to connect cultures, inspire innovation, and unite communities around the world.
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Catch a flick on the big screen in the PGA District! Friday movies will begin at 7:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn blanket to sit on. PGA District restaurants will be open to serve your favorite foods before and after each show; concession
beverages will also be available for purchase from our roaming beverage carts. As a reminder, outside food and drinks are not permitted, nor are lawn chairs. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
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There’s no better way to celebrate your break than by spending it at Six Flags. With thrilling rides, exciting attractions, and entertainment for all ages, Six Flags offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Whether you're seeking an
adrenaline-pumping adventure, or simply looking to unwind and have fun with friends and family, Six Flags has something for everyone.
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The all-new 2026 Camp Invention® program, Spark, is coming to curious kids in your community this summer! Rising K-6 campers will collaborate with friends to tackle hands-on, open-ended challenges. They’ll team up with robotic capybaras, ride the waves of entrepreneurship, uncover the power of protecting their ideas and build a DIY space rocket! Each experience is designed to spark confidence, build persistence and create unforgettable summer memories. Visit invent.org/save/camp to secure your spot! Register using CIFUN25 by 3/31 to save $25 or CIFUN20 by 4/28 to save $20 when you register. Interest-free payment plans are available, making camp affordable for all families.
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- Wiggle and Read Storytime - 1 Lou Finney Lane, Greenville, TX, Friday, March 20, 2026, 10:30-11:30 am
- Book Babies - 901 Conover Drive, Grand Prairie, TX, Friday,
March 20, 2026, 11-11:45 am
- Hello Kitty and Friends Party - Allen Public Library, Allen, TX,
Friday, March 20, 2026, 10:30-11:30am
- Preschool Storytime - Nicholas P Sims Library, Waxahachie, TX,
Friday, March 20, 2026, 10-11 am
- Women's Sports Day - Martin Luther King Branch Library, https://maps.google
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The KidsOutAndAbout annual guide to summer camps in the Dallas area is back! You can search by date, age, or categories like day/overnight, sports, drama, music, theatre, arts & crafts, technology, robotics, horseback riding, preschool, & more. Our
guide puts summer fun right at your fingertips!
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Looking for a thrilling family-friendly adventure in the Dallas area? Escape rooms are interactive, puzzle-packed experiences where you and your team work together to solve clues and complete your mission-all before time runs out! Whether you're escaping a
spooky cabin, cracking a high-stakes heist, or breaking a magical curse, escape rooms offer exciting, screen-free fun for kids, teens, and adults.
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Have a great weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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