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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Dive under the sea this January with Plano Metropolitan Ballet's The Little Mermaid! Join us for a magical retelling of the classic fairytale, filled with shimmering costumes, enchanting choreography, and a splash of wonder for the whole family. Don't miss this unforgettable journey where dreams, love, and courage sparkle on the stage.
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STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. As USA Today says, “STOMP finds beautiful noises in the strangest places.” STOMP. See what all the noise is about.
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Calling all families for a museum-wide celebration that will include creative activities, live performances, and free admission to the special exhibition Myth and Marble: Ancient Roman Sculpture from the Torlonia Collection. Special thanks to the Nuestro Kimbell committee for their support.
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Barbie is the ultimate career guide having had more than 200 jobs over the last 60 years. Explore a variety of careers and learn the story of real-life women who broke barriers in their industry. Discover your career with Barbie™ You Can Be Anything™:The Experience! Barbie dolls and their accessories encourage imaginative play. The kind that teaches us no matter our gender, ethnicity, or background, we can make the world a better place by doing work that excites us, challenges us and brings us fulfillment. This exhibit has something for everyone!
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The Kids’ Express is ready to roll! Join us for a festive indoor parade featuring kid-made train cars, chugging through the Library for all to enjoy. Stick around for a special storytime celebrating trains at the end of the line!
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Join us on Saturday, January 10, at 10 a.m. for a Penguin Storytime! We will read books, sing songs, and do a craft together. All ages are welcome to attend.
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Give your kids a night of unforgettable fun at ASI Gymnastics’ Parents’ Night Out! Every Parents’ Night Out is uniquely themed, transforming our gym into a world of adventure. We cater to children ages 3-14, offering a safe and supervised environment filled with engaging games, creative crafts, pizza, and exhilarating trampoline sessions. While your children enjoy an evening of laughter and exploration, you can relax and unwind with the peace of mind that comes with ASI Gymnastics’ experienced staff. Whether you’re a member or not, Parents’ Night Out is the perfect opportunity for your child to make new friends, burn off energy, and create lasting memories. Sign up today and let ASI Gymnastics be your go-to solution for a well-deserved night off!
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Cast a line and catch some trout with our Rangers! Partake in a friendly competition while we celebrate Ray Roberts Lake State Park - Johnson Branch's 30th Anniversary. Competition for prizes are for 16 years and younger! There will be tables and booths set up around the pond and drinks (hot cocoa, hot coffee, and water) provided by the park *Kid Fishpond will be closed for fishing prior to event for preparations*
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Gather your friends and family for a Loteria Night with a chance to win Raising Cane's themed prizes!
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This isn’t just a game—it’s a live, interactive fantasy quest where every choice shapes your destiny. Explore immersive sets, face thrilling challenges, and experience the magic of storytelling brought to life. Solve puzzles, battle mythical foes, and uncover secrets in a one-of-a-kind fantasy world for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious newcomer, gather your party and embark on an unforgettable journey. Book your adventure now and become a hero!
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Balloon Museum presents Let’s Fly in Dallas — the third stop of its Texas tour. A one-of-a-kind experience set in the iconic space of the South Side Studios, featuring monumental inflatable artworks by renowned international artists. The exhibition explores air not only as a physical element, but as a metaphor for movement, lightness, and boundless travel.
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Harry Potter™: The Exhibition celebrates all things Harry Potter™ by bringing to life some of your favourite moments, characters, locations, and beasts from the film series, as well as the extended Harry Potter universe. Get up close to authentic props and costumes, practice your Quidditch™ skills, pot a Mandrake, and more in this unforgettable experience.
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- Raising Cane's Lotería Night - Raising Cane's, Grand
Prairie, Friday, 01/09/2026, 6:30-8:30 pm
- Animal Encounter - Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, Cedar Hill, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 11-11:30 am
- Sensory Friendly Morning- Explorium - Denton Children's Museum, Denton, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 9-10 am
- Saturday Penguin Storytime - Burleson
Public Library, Burleson, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 10 am
- Train Car Parade &
Storytime - Hurst Public Library, Hurst, Saturday, 01/10/2026, 11 am
- Family
Festival / Fiesta de la Familia - Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, Sunday, 01/11/2026, 12-5 pm
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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 in and around the Mid-Cities. Here are local organizations that offer
memberships.
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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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Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Mid-Cities 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 Top 20 Places to Take Kids in the Mid-Cities Area, as voted by thousands of parents! Our Top 20 results page includes a list of your top picks, including 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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