KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter |
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Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
I'm in Phoenix this week for a meeting of the American Astronomical Society, where I'm giving a talk about my new book, The Eclipse Effect. One of the best parts of being here is getting to attend the other presentations, too, which is how I found myself Monday night inside under the Dorrance Planetarium Dome at the Arizona Science Center, gazing up at a sky unlike any I’ve ever seen. Thanks to cutting-edge LED projection technology and the first imagery from the nearly-complete Rubin Observatory in Chile, the dome became a portal into the depths of our galaxy and beyond,
rendered in light so vivid and detailed it felt like we could fall in. The room was full of astronomers, researchers, educators—professionals who have dedicated their careers to explaining the universe. These were the very people who helped build the tools, who'd worked the math, who’d waited decades to see the science take shape... and even they were astonished: Their faces were lit up with the kind of awe you usually only see in children. It was a reminder that at its
heart, science is about connection. Connecting those points of light above my head, yes; connecting the dots, sure... but also connecting people—to each other, to wonder, and to what’s possible. If you want your kids to connect deeply with science—or history, or nature, or culture, or space—you don’t need a telescope on a mountain, you just need a person. So go to the museum, walk the trail, step into the planetarium. But don’t stop at the
exhibit signs: Find the people! Ask them questions. They want to talk to you! These docents, tour guides, librarians, explainers, and educators are the ones who turn information into illumination. They are the lens your kids can look through to see what their future might be. So seek the sky painters. Then stand next to your kids, look up, and be amazed together.
—Debra Ross, publisher
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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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Peppa Pig, along with Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, George and new baby sister Evie, are coming to Galveston for PEPPA PIG: MY FIRST CONCERT – a fun, interactive introduction to a live orchestra for ages 18 months and older. Join Peppa and George to learn all about the different sounds that instruments make together! Enjoy some of your favorite music from the show played by a live orchestra and discover some other exciting orchestral pieces perfect for children. Plus, some little piggies can join Peppa and her family to make music of their own! Join the Grand 1894 Opera House March 6th 12:00 PM for a fun Classical Musical Journey.
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Microschools are becoming a popular choice among Houston families looking for a personalized and student-centered approach to education. These small learning communities, typically serving 8–58 students, blend the individualized attention of homeschooling with the social connection and professional guidance found in traditional schools. Often founded by former educators, they create mixed-age groups that mirror real communities and build skills like planning, collaboration, and self-regulation. For families in Spring Branch, Memorial, and the Energy Corridor, microschools like iBis Learning focus on bilingualism, hands-on learning, and strong support for each child. We honor individual learning patterns by using regular check-ins to understand growth and by offering just-right challenges and scaffolding. Our project-inquiry approach emphasizes curiosity and the learning process—not memorizing facts or passing tests.
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Make birthdays unforgettable at Main Event, where every celebration feels bigger, brighter, and more exciting. From bowling and laser tag to hundreds of arcade games, there’s something for every guest to enjoy. Our events take the stress off planning with flexible packages, dedicated spaces, and nonstop fun from start to finish. Receive FREE Double Your Fun on arcade game play on any new group booking of 10 or more when you book and host by Feb. 6th, 2026, giving your group more games and more play. Lock in your date now and level up your celebration. Offer available at any Houston or Dallas/Fort Worth Main Event Location. Mention Code: KOAA26 when booking. Certain restrictions apply. See store for more details.
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Once Upon A Cowboy offers a fun and unique experience that will be unforgettable. At Once Upon A Cowboy, we handle every detail, ensuring a stress free and enjoyable celebration. Create lasting memories with your loved ones where fun, laughter and good times await! Pricing starts as low as $329. Email: events@onceuponacowboy.com to reserve your party today or give us a call at 346-587-5653.
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We're all about families on Sunday Family* Fun Day!! We wave the individual studio fees ALL DAY ON SUNDAYS so your family can paint for just a $10 family studio fee that covers all the paint plus the kiln firing (pottery pieces priced separately*). Don't miss this weekly event!
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Balloon Museum presents Pop Air | Art is Inflatable — the international touring exhibition where air becomes art through the vision of leading artists from around the world.
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Discover the joy of ice skating at The Ice Rink, the premier ice skating destination in the Houston area. Located at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, our 21,000-square-foot facility offers a well-maintained ice rink perfect for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a romantic date, or a memorable celebration, The Woodlands Ice Rink provides an enchanting winter experience complete with festive decorations, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
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Be Our Guest at Disney’s 30th Anniversary production of DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, the breathtaking musical filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love. This enchanting and timeless tale has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Reuniting to create this new production are members of the original Tony Award®-winning artistic team, including composer Alan Menken, lyricist Tim Rice, book writer Linda Woolverton, with direction and choreography by Matt West, scenic design by Stanley A. Meyer, costume design by Ann Hould-Ward and lighting design by Natasha Katz.
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“I am a Jedi, like my father before me.” Watch the thrilling final chapter of the original Star Wars trilogy on the big screen, and feel the full splendor and Force of John Williams' soaring score, performed live by the Symphony!
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An interactive play with music inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen and other tales. On the darkest night of the year, a boy vanishes—and his best friend needs your help to rescue him from the Snow Queen’s icy grasp. Join the adventure, help shape the story, and sing along in this festive, family-friendly winter show created by Brave Little Company and Stages.
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We are excited to announce that the All Points North Model Railroad Association will bring their circus-themed model train display to the museum January 6–9, 2026! This vibrant and whimsical layout features a Ferris wheel, carousel, roller coaster, moving parade, and an animated big top tent—complete with hundreds of miniature people enjoying the sights and sounds of the carnival.
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Introduce your child to the wonder of reading and instill a love of books at an early age. Storybook Theatre combines your favorite childhood books with songs, rhymes and fingerplays which are meant to promote early literacy and enhance language development.
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Join us for action-packed gaming fun as a state-of-the-art video game theater rolls into City Place! Packed with the latest games and consoles, this mobile gaming experience is perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Grab your friends, test your skills, and enjoy the ultimate gaming adventure—all for free!
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Lights, laughter, and classic cartoons! Calling all teens—come hang out at the library for a special cartoon Bring your own favorite snacks to enjoy while you watch and get ready for a fun-filled break with nonstop cartoon comedy. If you love animation and humor, this is the perfect event for you!
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Jump into the vibrant world of Read, Move, & Groove at The Little Gym, a fantastic fusion of literature and lively motion tailored for our young gymnasts. As your child dives into mesmerizing tales, they're also introduced to a symphony of movements, from twirls to tumbles, making each story an active adventure. Key Features: Interactive Storytime: Dive deep into exciting tales that spark imagination. Physical Fun: Boost coordination, balance, and agility through engaging movements. Rhythmic Delights: Experience the pulse of music and dance as stories unfold. Unleash the potential of words and wiggles at The Little Gym! With Read, Move, & Groove, every page turned is a step, jump, or jive in the right direction. Join us and let your little one’s imagination soar while their feet find the rhythm of adventure.
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Learn about 3D printing, including how 3D printers work, and how to create your own custom designs. Participants will earn a badge and be able to reserve future appointments to use a 3D printer at HCPL branches. This program is open to adults and teens, ages 12 and up; younger children may attend with an adult, however they will not be able to earn a badge or book makerspace appointments.
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- Toon Café - High Meadows Branch Library, 4500 Aldine Mail Route Road, Houston, TX 77039, Friday, 01/09/2026, 3-5 pm
- Video Game Theater - Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwoods Village, 1200 Lake Plaza Drive, Spring, TX 77389, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 11 am- 1 pm
- Wagging Tales - Katherine Tyra Branch
Library, Clay Road, Houston, TX, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 10:30-11 am
- 3D Printer Orientation - La Porte Branch
Library - 600 South Broadway, La Porte, TX 77571, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 10:30 am- 12 pm
- Winter of the Snow
Queen - Aldine Branch Library, 11331 Airline Drive, Houston, TX 77037, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 2-3 pm
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Winter is here and fun options for families just keep getting better! Whether you stick with what you love or decide to try something new, KidsOutAndAbout has plenty of ideas. From Ice skating, kid-friendly museums, indoor play centers, and outdoor
activities to thinking ahead to next year's school options - we've got you covered.
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EXPERIENCES create memories much more than stuff does. As you're considering gifts for family and friends, consider giving the gift of a family membership to one of our local attractions. Here are local organizations that offer memberships.
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Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Houston area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
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2025's winners in KidsOutAndAbout's survey of the Top 20 Places to Take Kids in the Houston area: Houston, The Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugar Land, and beyond. Our Top 20 results page includes a list of your top picks, plus winners in special categories
like Top Arts Educator, Top Sports Educator, and Top STEM Educator!
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Have a great weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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