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Reading ClassicsYour Child will

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Teens This Summer

Strong-willedand stubborn

Summer Camp Guide

YoungLife....not just another organization

July/ August 2010

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20 Benefits of Music For your children

6 Teens This Summer: Whatcha gonna do?

10 Summer Fun Activites Grow a Garden this Summer

12 A Strong-Willed Child

14 Reading Classics Sure to Inspire Your Child

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Cover Picture:Taylor will be in the 7th grade this fall and enjoys reading and playing video games

July/Aug 2010 issue 43

18 summer camp guide

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By Jan Udlock

Teens This Summer: Whatcha gonna do?where teens can support each other in their mission to “do good.” Teens are posting blogs, photos, and videos of what they’re doing to make their communities a bet-ter place.Look out for your neighbors and see if an elderly widow needs her grass cut over the summer or if a couple down the street need some yard work. Maybe there is a young couple with a baby in your neighbor that could benefit from some babysitting. Talk and listen to your kids about the importance of volunteering their time versus getting paid for their work. When is appropri-ate to provide a service for free to someone who can’t afford it?

“I think manual labor or mundane labor is a great learn-ing experience for teens, particularly in the privileged and insulated world in which many kids are raised. It shows the value of hard work, the value of a buck, the direct relationship between earnings an hourly wage and producing something, how most people in America work and a set of lifelong skills,” says Taylor.

Start a Business Your teen can also use this opportunity to learn how to start and run a business. “Running a business teaches important skill sets that kids will need throughout their lives, such as decision-making, strategic-planning, calcu-lated risk-taking, creativity, financial management, com-munication, teamwork, etc,” says Melissa Rose, MBA, president and owner of Bizinabox.

Summer is upon us and school is out! Kids have been looking forward to these weeks but now what? Young kids can play outside without much encouragement. You can give a six year old a clean paintbrush and a bucket of water, and he’s good to go for hours. How-ever, 13, 14, and 15 year olds are not so easily “enter-tained.” They are old enough to get into trouble but not old enough to get a “real” job. So what can they do this summer with all of their time?

Parents can sit down with their young teens and discuss all of the different options that are available to them. “Summer activities that encourage certain values that parents want to instill in their teens for example, hard work, compassion, learning about other cultures, can be investigated,” offers Dr. Jim Taylor, author of Positive Pushing: How to Raise a Successful and Happy Child.

Volunteer Volunteering teaches leadership skills, how to deal with the public, and provides the teen a chance to focus on other people’s needs.

Servenet is one of Youth Service America’s, online resource for youth ages 11 - 25 looking for ways to volunteer. Your child puts in their zip code and a list of volunteer choices in your area comes up. Use this list to start a discussion with your teen about organizations that they would like to support.Check out www.GetUrGoodOn.org, an online commu-nity partnership between YSA and celebrity Miley Cyrus,


You can discuss with your kids different jobs that they can come up with around your neighborhood. If you live in a rural area, your kids can sell eggs or buck hay. Kids can become the summer pet sitter and or be hired to weed someone’s garden. Your daughter may teach music lessons to younger children.

Do you have a budding computer geek in your midst? Can she teach a class? Help your child design a four week beginning computer class for seniors. She might confess that it’s all too simple but remind her that there are grandparents out there that still don’t know how to “cut and paste” web addresses so they can see pictures of their grandchildren.

More Educational ChoicesBaby sitting classes provide knowledge, skills and train-ing for 11 - 15 year old youth. Contact the Red Cross in your area to see if they provide this valuable class. Any child old enough to babysit, should look into taking a CPR class. Local community pools offers lifeguarding classes to kids 15 years old and older.In certain states kids can take driver’s education over the summer to get it out of the way. Both boys and girls can take self-defense classes through parks and recre-ation department. Some students may need extra help in the school and summer time may be the time to hire a Math tutor to work weak Math skills. On the other hand, you may have a student that loves learning and wants to excel in a certain area and hiring a tutor may help them exceed in their school endeavors. You might have a retired en-gineer living next to you that you could make arrange-ments for extra tutoring lessons.

Boredom is Good “Mom, I’m bored” strikes fear in some parents because they think it’s their responsibility to entertain their child. As a parent, you can offer your child the reassuring words that you have faith in them that they can handle boredom. And ask your child what are you going to do about it? “A part of summer vacation should be devoted to down time, meaning just hanging out at home and taking it easy. Kids need time to rest and recharge. So much of kids lives are go, go, go,” says Taylor.

What If?What if your child doesn’t want to do anything but play video games, text, and hang out with friends. Taylor suggests, “I have a saying, “Doing nothing is not an op-tion.”’ Talk with your kids and ask them why do they not want to try something new. Is it scary? Is your child fear-ful she will fail at it? Remind her that trying something new is all about trial and error. She’ll learn something that she didn’t know before.

While summer break means no school work, it doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Plan some fun activities with your kids and encourage them to try something new.

Jan Udlock is a freelance writer and a homeschooling mom of 5. She loves both jobs most of the time.

Allergy, Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic

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Head & Neck CancerSnoring & Sleep Apnea

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Board Certified Ear, Nose & Throat Physicians, Head & Neck Surgeons

By Dr. Joann Lin McKinney Allergy and Asthma

� mckinneykidsmagazine April/May 2010 www.northtexasmagazines.com

Allergies Caused by Insect Stings can be alarming

Summer is upon us and it’s time to watch out for all the creepy-

crawly, flying insects that love the heat as much as people do!

Most insect stings are an itchy nuisance, but, for some, a bite

or sting can be much more alarming and lead to severe, life-

threatening allergic reactions.

How to treat an insect stingMost people will develop itching, pain, swelling, and redness

confined to the sting/bite site. With fireant stings, the itchy

bump later develops into a small blister. There is little chance

of infection unless it is scratched opened. When healed, these

lesions may leave scars.

For insect sting treatment, disinfecting the area (washing with

soap and water) and applying ice will help to reduce the swell-

ing. Antihistamines can help control itching and reduce the

chance of infection developing when the skin is scratched

open. Some people may develop significantly larger reactions

where an entire arm or leg will swell. Medical attention may

be required if the swelling causes significant pain or does not

subside. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be prescribed

to lessen the discomfort.

What are the symptoms of insect sting allergy?People with true insect sting allergies develop severe, life-

threatening symptoms after insect stings because their immune

system overreacts to the venom. About 0.5-5% of the US

population develop these symptoms after insect stings. These

severe allergic, or anaphylactic, symptoms include:

•Hives, itching and swelling in areas other than the sting site

•Tightness in the chest and difficulty in breathing

•Hoarseness or tongue swelling

•Dizziness and fainting

•Stomach cramping

•Nausea and/or diarrhea

Most allergic reactions to insect stings in the US come from

wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, bees, and fireants. Mosquito

bites very rarely lead to anaphylaxis.

How are allergic reactions to insect stings treated?Life-threatening allergic reactions can progress very rap-idly within minutes and require immediate medical attention. Emergency treatment usually includes medications like epi-nephrine, antihistamines, and in some cases, corticosteroids, intravenous fluids, and breathing treatments.

Avoiding insect stings Knowing how to avoid stings leads to a more enjoyable out-

door experience. Stinging insects are most active during the

summer and early fall. Some interventions include:

•Avoid wearing sandals or walking barefoot in the grass. Honeybees and bumblebees forage on white clover, a weed that grows in lawns throughout the country

•Never swat at a flying insect. If need be, gently brush it aside


•Be careful when you drink from open beverage cans. Stinging insects can crawl into an open can

•When eating outdoors, try to keep food covered at all times

•Garbage cans stored outside should be covered with tight-fitting lids

•Avoid sweet-smelling perfumes, hair sprays, colognes and deodorants

•Avoid wearing bright-colored clothing

•Wear appropriate covering to minimize skin exposure during yardwork and gardening

•Keep window and door screens in good repair. Drive with car windows closed

•Keep prescribed medications handy at all times and follow the attached instructions if you are stung

•Insect repellants are more effective against mosquitoes and tics. Those containing DEET should not be used in children under 2 months of age. Oil of eucalyptus products should not be used in children under 3 years old. When applying insect repellant, apply to only exposed skin but avoid their hands, around the eyes, or any areas where there are cuts or irritated skin. When using combination products with DEET and sunscreen, you may reapply sunscreen but the combination product should not be reapplied because repeated application may increase the potential toxic effects of DEET

•Fireants, yellow jackets, hornets and wasps can sting repeatedly. Honeybees have barbed stingers that are left behind in their victim's skin. These stingers are best removed by a scraping action with your fingernail, rather than a pulling motion which may actually squeeze more venom into the skin.

Diagnosis and treatment of severe insect sting allergy

An allergist can help you diagnose insect sting allergy through blood testing or in-office skin testing. If the test is positive, your doctor will prescribe you a portable self-injectable epinephrine device for emergency use if you have a severe reaction. People who have experienced an allergic reaction to an insect sting have a 60% chance of a similar or worse reaction if stung again. Long-term treatment is through venom immunotherapy, a highly effective program of allergy shots which can prevent future severe allergic reactions to insect stings. In a matter of weeks to months, people who previously lived under the constant threat of severe reactions to insect stings can return to leading normal lives outside!

Being prepared for insects and taking certain precautions will help everyone enjoy multiple outdoor activities this season!

Joann H. Lin, MDMcKinney Allergy and Asthma Center972-548-2797

Specia lizing in treating a ll family members with a llergies of the eyes, sinuses, lu ngs, GI tract, and skin

2251 Eldorado Pkwy., Ste 150 • McKinney, TX 75070972-548-2797 • [email protected]

www.mckinney-allergy.com

Joann H. Lin, MDBoard Certified in Adult

and Pediatric Allergy and Immunology

• Food/ Environmental Allergies• Asthma and Persistent Cough• Eczema and Hives• Drug Allergies (including Penicillin)• Sinus Pressures & Headaches• Immune System Evaluation• Allergy Testing with No Needles• Blood Testing for Allergies• Allery Shots (build-up to monthly doses)• Children & Adults

BE PREPARED NEXT TIME!Find Out and Treat Your Allergies

Before Next Season!

10 mckinneykidsmagazine July/Aug 2010 www.northtexasmagazines.com

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Hey kids are you getting bored at home? Do you want to enjoy

the summer vacation in a different way?Are you looking for

some fun activities?Don’t worry,there are a number of things

you can do this summer.How about gardening?Gardening is a

favorite hobby of many of us.If you are still ignorant about it just

go for it and you will surely end up with a wonderful experience.

You are never too little or too old to start gardening.Children

always enjoy watching the plants grow.If you are interested in

gardening as a parent you can always encourage your children

to make the world round green.This will not only keep them

busy in something constructive but will also help them to en-

gage in environment friendly activity.Their little effort can be a

great step towards making this earth green and beautiful.

Gardening can be regarded as a great summer fun for kids.

Demarcate a 3’x3’plot in your garden for your kids.This is big

enough for them.Help the kids to dig the area.Wet it down.Now

fill the bed with soil.Remember to buy organic soil.Never go

for soil that includes chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

Let your kids decide whether they want to plant vegetables

or flowers.Whatever their choice is help them to find plants

that are easy to grow.For example Zinnias,Sunflowers,Petunia

s and Marigolds are easy to grow.While planting them check

the instructions on the labels and ask your child to follow

them.You should also teach them how to water the garden

and how to spread mulch.

Kids love gardening and there can be no greater summer

fun for them than watching beautiful flowers,birds and

butterflies.If you find that your kids are really interested in

gardening then you can take their hobby one step further by

encouraging them to plant the seeds in a particular pattern

to form a word or a smiley face. You can get them bedding

plants like busy Lizzie or pansy to do this.

Your kids will be more than happy to see colorful birds

coming to your garden every day.Visit a local garden center

along with your kids. Most of the garden centers sell bird

baths.Choose a bird bath that will fit into your garden.Take

your kids opinion regarding the shape and color.

Now put the bird bath in a safe place preferably near shrubs

and trees or tall hedges.Select a place where the birds can

Summer Fun Activities Grow a Good Garden

This Summerby Daniel Brown

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fly to safety.Keep the bird bath in a place that is clearly visible

from the window.This will help the kids to watch birds leaving

them undisturbed.As soon as the birds understand that they

are safe in your garden they will keep on coming.

Along with gardening your kids will also develop the hobby

of bird watching.You can encourage them by getting books

containing the name and picture of different bird species.

This will help them to recognize the bird species coming to

your garden.Besides of attracting birds you can help your

kids to plant Buddleia,Milkweed and Asclepias as they attract

colorfulbutterflies.

This way kids will not only enjoy their summer vacation but

will learn a lot about nature.

Daniel Brown is a professional writer who writes for various topics.For more information on summer fun or summer fun for kids she suggests you to visit http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Family-Lifestyle/Travel/25-Memorable-Summer-Vacations.html

1� mckinneykidsmagazine July/Aug 2010 www.northtexasmagazines.com

listen; they are very intelligent and are seeking a way to control

the world they are in with as little resistance as possible. They

aren’t behind others in development, they are ahead of others

and frustrated with those who in their minds won’t catch up

with them.

Finding Peace for AllSo, what can families do with a strong willed child? The “what

to do” or “how to do” has been written about by many experts

and you can find this advice in many books. You should spend

more time learning and practicing the “when to do” part of

dealing and helping strong willed children.

How many of you would agree that strong willed children are

a gift? For those of you who do, I applaud you. You are most

likely already making greater strides than you know in helping

your strong willed child. Strong willed children are born with a

temperament that is very diverse. The temperament of a strong

willed child is like a boat traversing across waters they see as

stormy and are fighting their boat at every turn. They want so

You Do the MathIs your child exhibiting more of the characteristics listed

below than not?

Will fight in any manner to get their way?

“That’s mine and will always be mine” behavior?

Doesn’t understand or respond to any aspect of the word

“no?”

Frustrated when they can’t accomplish something they

think they should be able to accomplish?

Everything they do seems to be done at super speed

Their rules are the only rules?

Sound familiar? Yes, your child is strong willed.

Let’s Be ClearLet’s be clear on what a strong willed child is not. A strong

willed child not is trying to destroy your family. They do not

desire to “be bad”. They are not masters of manipulation;

they only believe they should be able to master anything.

They don’t lack the ability to understand, be responsible or

A Strong-WilledChild:

Can do and won’t do

By Lori L. Ellis, PhDThe Behavioral Advantage LLC

www.thebehavioraladvantage.com

mckinneykidsmagazine July/Aug 2010 1�www.northtexasmagazines.com

much to reach the distant shore and single-mindedly believe

they can get there without any help. Even if you are allowed to

be a ship mate, you will be treated much worse than a shipmate

who travelled with Captain Bligh. When you discover when

to help them and when to just let them be in their “full steam

ahead” way, everyone will be happier and experience more

peace.

When to Help and When to Let It GoBefore you learn when to help it is necessary to do some read-

ing on types of temperament in children. There are only four

types of temperament even though it seems there ought to be

at least forty. To help you get started in your research about

these types, let me give you four short descriptions.

Types of TemperamentThe first temperament, I call the “Super Kid” temperament. Su-

per Kids are outgoing and loaded with energy. So much energy,

they can’t keep it in check. Super Kids are the most emotional

of the four temperaments. Bursts of all kinds of emotions can

be expected at every turn.

The second temperament, I call the “Wolverine” temperament.

Wolverines thrive on activity. Wolverines are all about quick

decisions. Wolverines tend to drive right through and over

anything in their way. Wolverines have the most problem with

anger.

The third temperament, I call the “Little Professor”. Little Profes-

sors are perfectionists. They are moody and they abhor change.

Little Professors tend to be “all or nothing” in their evaluation of

things in life. Little Professors are intolerant and impatient with

those who do not see things their way.

The fourth temperament, I call the “Easy Rider”. Calm and

steady, but very stubborn. Easy Riders are not motivated and

will do anything to do little of anything. Easy Riders do not

engage in activities that force them to take action. Easy Riders

can be quite selfish.

How Will I Know When to Help?At The Behavioral Advantage we can teach you effective strate-

gies for dealing with your strong willed child. Knowing when to

help or even re-direct will take practice. We can teach you how

to execute behavioral planning that will benefit all members of

your family.

Please call us today. You deserve peace in your home. We can help you. The first family consultation in your home is free. Be sure and read next month’s article on The Resilient Child: Preparing Your Child to Return to School.

English Riding Lessons &Summer Day Camp Horseback Riding

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A typical day is comprised of an english style riding lesson, horse grooming, arts & crafts,swimming and educational discussions regarding horse care, horsemanship and equipment.

972-346-3236 • [email protected]

Prospering Farm

By Liz Sheffield


wardrobe in an old house to the mysterious land of Narnia, which is under the spell of

the White Witch. For grades 4–7 and older readers.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

After becoming an orphan, Mary—ill-tempered and neglected—is sent to live on an

uncle’s huge estate where she meets an equally wretched cousin who is an invalid.

Together they conspire to restore a locked, secret garden while the boy regains his

health and his father’s affection. For grades 4–7

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson.

Young Jim Hawkins finds a map in a dead seaman’s possessions. His friends, Squire

Trelawney and Doctor Livesey, realize it’s a treasure map. They hire a ship, unaware

that the crew includes the pirate Long John Silver. For grades 6–9 and older readers.

1881.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

A little girl who can talk to animals is devoted to both Wilbur, the foolishly smug pig,

and Charlotte, the beautiful gray spider who saves Wilbur’s life. This sensitive story is a

delight for children of all ages as well as adults. For grades 3–6.

Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes.

After injuring his right hand, fourteen-year-old Johnny, a silversmith’s apprentice,

becomes a messenger for the Sons of Liberty in the days before the American

Reading Classics Sure to Inspire Your Child This SummerRemember the long summer days of lying on a

blanket under the gigantic oak tree with a bowl

of cherries, reading Anne of Green Gables by Lucy

Maud Montgomery or The Secret Garden by Frances

Hodgson Burnett and truly allowing your imagination

to go to another place and time? Most of the books

we read had no pictures, but I still remember the set-

ting as vividly as if I had been there yesterday. The

funny thing is that I’ve never been there but, my imagi-

nation has and THAT has made all the difference.

Today, there is no doubt that our children have more

options to keep them entertained than we had 20

or 30 years ago. Between summer camps that cater

to every interest and the entire electronic world, our

children have more choices than they know what to

do with. Yet, it’s common to hear the infamous whine,

“I’m bored” or “There’s nothing to do.” The thought

that modern technology could prevent my kids from

experiencing the serenity of spending a lazy summer

day immersed in a book creating lifelong memories is

simply unacceptable.

Jane Doe, LPC tells us that the main reason our kids

are more bored in a time of endless opportunities is

because modern activities require little to no imagi-

nation. “Video games and electronic devices have

become so technologically advanced and creative that

players have no need to think for themselves. Virtual

games literally place kids in mock settings that deter

independent ideas or thoughts.”

If you’re interested in getting your children’s creative

juices flowing this summer, consider minimizing their

electronic time and maximizing trips to your local

library or bookstore. And considering all the parks,

lakes and outdoor beauty McKinney has to offer, there

is no reason why your kids can’t create memories of

sitting under the shady oak tree or relaxing near the

pond with a great book! The following suggestions of

classic reading materials are sure to get their imagina-

tions running at full speed for an inspirational, memo-

rable summer.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

Anne, an eleven-year-old orphan, is sent by mistake

to live with a lonely, middle-aged brother and sister

on a Prince Edward Island farm in Canada. There she

proceeds to make an indelible impression on everyone

around her. For grades 5–8 and older readers. 1908.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Four English children find their way through a huge


Revolution. He meets Massachusetts patriots and becomes involved in events leading to the

Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Lexington. For grades 5–8. Newbery Medal. 1943.

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor.

Nine-year-old Cassie Logan recalls a turbulent time in Mississippi during the Great

Depression—a year of night riders, burnings, and threats. She describes her African American

family’s struggle to survive with their dignity and independence intact. Some strong language.

For grades 6–9. Newbery Award. 1976.

Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary

Ramona likes her kindergarten teacher, Miss Binney. Ramona also likes Davy—so much she

wants to kiss him. So why does Ramona keep getting in trouble? Part of a series. For grades

2–4. 1968.

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell.

When her tribe moved, a Native American girl was accidentally left behind on an island off the

California coast. She tells about the eighteen years that she managed to survive and to find

comfort, beauty, and, at times, joy in her solitude. For grades 6–9. Newbery Medal. 1960.

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

When James’ parents die, he is sent to live with his wicked aunts. One day, someone suspicious

gives him a bag of green things to make something spectacular, but James accidentally loses

them, and all of them disappear. Suddenly, a gigantic peach grows from an old, dead, tree,

which will bring James to anywhere away from his nasty aunts. For grades 3-5.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

It is about a boy who buys and trains two redbone coonhound hunting dogs. This book is a

popular choice for early middle school reading classes, with a reading level appropriate to

grades 4 and up. 1961.

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There exists an organization that has the worthy goal of bring-

ing teenagers to God, I’ve got nothing against that, but some-

times I question their techniques.

They try so hard to be relevant that I can’t help thinking that their

training must include at least one hour of MTV a day. I under-

stand and respect what they are trying to do. They want to make

Christianity appealing to the younger generation-but Jesus holds

no more appeal when you call Him “dude” and his disciples “His

crew.”

Their well meaning attempt to make a connection with teenagers

often falls short when they assume, because of my age, that I talk

and think a certain way. I may or may not want to join their orga-

nization but I can’t make that decision in the school cafeteria or …

And right here, at this very moment, I realized I was wrong.

What you just read was the beginning of a column I started writ-

ing sophomore year, I was so fed up with people trying to spoon

feed Christianity to high schoolers that I found it my obligation to

try and demote organizations that I thought were just slapping

the “Jesus” brand on a social club to attract more attendance.

Before I started writing my column I attended two Young Life

meetings just to gather notes and compile facts. Then I decided to

go to the club again, just to see. And for the next to two years my

column was untouched and reminded that way until now.

Because one night, at 10:47pm, sitting alone in my boxers, looking

at the pale blue glow of my computer screen I realized there is

more to Young life then games and guitars, And there was more

to Christianity then the stories I heard through Sunday school and

from my Grandpa. So for the rest of my high school career I at-

tended club every Monday and even went to Young life’s summer

camp twice.

I’m not saying that YoungLife is the only way to find and have a

relationship with God, but for me it was my outlet. My break from

the stresses of home, life and the world, just to learn of a God that

loves me more then anyone, just for who I am, even if I didn’t love

myself.

So the girl you like thinks you’re not that cute and kinda weird,

but do you really care? Honestly, if the creator of the entire

universe and everything in it, is your biggest fan, then whatever

what’s-her-face thinks, doesn’t really matter anymore.

I’ve had many rough patches in my life and the scars show up

sometimes no matter how hard I try to hide them, but through

the love of God I can find balance in my life. Regardless of what

Young Life..not just another organizationby Danny Sipiora


gWhere Medicine and Compassion MeethProviding Healthcare for Infants, Children and Adolescents

Cheryl Eley, M.D., F.A.A.P.Diplomate, American Board of Pediatrics

Lenee Safstrom, P.A.-C

Se Habla EspañolMost Insurance Plans Accepted

4510 Medical Center Drive, Suite 211McKinney, TX 75069

Phone: 972.548.8382 Fax: 972.547.9951

Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated. Primrose Schools, Balanced Learning, and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2010 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

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comes next, I know that God will be there and cares for me.

So now, more then two years later and a recent graduate of high

school, I have decided to finally finish this column, not by ending

it with my original last line. “God doesn’t need a gimmick” but

by saying to all the readers that you can’t do it by yourself and

as much you think you have your life under control, you really

don’t. I challenge you to search anywhere and everywhere for

God. I promise you will find Him, because He is looking for you.

God is waiting for you to come to Him, but if your ten steps

away from God he’s only going to take nine. For me, taking that

one step forward was the last step this shy, depressed, low

self-esteemed Danny ever took.

During his senior year, Danny Sipiora served as editor in chief for the McKinney High School newspaper. He plans to attend the University of Missouri this fall majoring in journalism. His goal is to become an editor for RollingStone Magazine.


Summer Camp Guide

214-491-4088www.adventurekidsplaycare.com

972-712-4644www.eaglegymnastics.com

972-509-7725www.camp.esisenbers.com

972-548-9386www.funbuses.com

972-529-1222www.castlemontessori.com

972-346-3000www.kidsrkids38tx.com

972-540-1600www.kidsrkidsmckinney.com

972-529-2091972-529-6863

www.primroseschools.com

972-346-3236www.prosperingfarm.com

214-504-9444www.spanishschoolhouse.com

972-540-5760www.stonebridgeacademy.com

214-592-0006972-985-4545

www.thelittlegym.com

Adventure Kids PlaycareJoin us all summer long at Adventure Kids Playcare. In addition to our regular drop in service we have summer camps each week featuring a different theme. As always you can come all five days or just one, it is your choice. See you this summer!”

Castle MontessoriSpend summer at the Castle! The Summer Program at Castle Montessori Schools offers an exciting range of camps and academic courses. Children will discover Forest Biomes and Coral Reefs, Visual and Performing Arts, Fitness and Cooking Camps together with excursions to Museums and Theaters!

Eagle Gymnastics AcademyWe will be hosting fun filled summer camps starting in June for children 3-14 yrs of age. With the aid of our qualified staff, your child will learn quality gymnastics as well as play games in our air conditioned facility. Come and flip with us from Monday through Thursday and bring a friend. The times for the weekly camps vary, so please contact us today to book your time.

EisenbergsThree 1-Week Sessions, June 13-July 3 for ages 8 and up. Beginner to Expert. Skateboarding, Rollerblading or BMX Biking taught by Pros. Day & Overnight Camps include Training & Lunch daily, T-Shirt, Group Photo, Competitions, Awards Dinner & Party. Overnight Camp also includes 6 nights at a hotel, breakfast, dinner and evening activities.

Fun BusLooking for simething FUN and different to do? Let kids climb, tumble, swing, jump and flip on our fully air conditioned bus! Make your Summer Camp our next stop... and make childhood memories come alive! Great for birthday parties or just weekend fun.

Kids ‘R’ KidsWe provide an awesome summer experience through the highest qualaity progrmas for children grades K-5. Our camp Caliber program includes a curriculum filled with art, cooking, and science projects as well as exciting field trips all summer long!

McKinney Music MagnetLearn music this summer at McKinney Music Magnet Summer Camps! Classes for all levels and abilities, ages 6-15. Learn to play guitar, piano, electric guitar or bass, songwriting, vocals, DJ, or play in a real Rock Band!

Primrose School of Eldorado &Primrose School of Stone BrookeEnrolling for summer and fall. Children ages 6-12 can join us for Camp Primrose 2010. Weekly prices have been rolled back to $160. Make this a summer to remember with Camp Primrose. Whether it’s traveling in a time machine or studying dinosaurus bones. We provide a safe environment where inspiration never ends.

Prospering FarmCampers learn to ride horses in a safe and positive atmosphere. Activities include: horseback lessons, care of the horse, swimming, arts & crafts and a camp horse show. We also offer year round horseback riding lessons for children and adults.

Spanish SchoolhouseOur unique 2-week immersion camps entertain AND educate! We invite 3-11 year old children to discover the language, culture, and geography of Latin America! Join us for educational fun with art, music, dance, sports, games, and science. Fridays are extra cool with lots of water activities. At Spanish Schoolhouse, summer is all about FUN!

Stonebridge AcademyWe offer a variety of exciting summer fun and academic enrichment programs with field trips to Aquariums, Museum of Nature & Science, etc. Each week unique themes include art, music, science, history, cooking, sports and physical fitness.

The Little GymThe Little Gym’s Summer Camps offer specially developed camp curriculum using exciting themes that combine physical fitness, gymnastics and play with arts & crafts and special events.

Drama KidsCamps include a variety of fun and creative theatre activities designed to build speaking and acting skills and develop children’s confidence in presentation and performance. Discover a new character in you at the end of camp producation. We set the stage for success.

North Texas Christian AcademyNow enrolling students for fall 2010. Kindergarten through 7th grade. Extended after school care available. Preparing students for life and faith through a superior scholastic, social and spiritual experience.

Smashing Times

Painting with a TwistKids painting parties. Let us host your next Birthday Party. An art instructor will guide you step by step to create a masterpiece. 10 person minimum, $25/person. Choose your own painting. Call for details.

214-592-4066www.dramakids.com/tx5

972-529-4891www.mckinneymusicmagnet.com

North TexasChristian Academy

214-544-1794www.northtexaschristian.org

972-540-9761www.smashingtimes.com

Come join up for a Smashing Time. We offer Summer camps for children 4 and up. Children learn to make mosaics and many arts and crafts. A healthy snack is provided. You can walk in anytime to create mosaics.

972-832-0302www.paintingwithatwist.

com/mckinney

mckinneykidsmagazine July/Aug 2010 1�

Spanish Schoolhouse

214-504-9444 • www.spanishschoolhouse.com2421 Virginia Parkway • McKinney, TX 75071

1 of 12 schools serving DFW Metroplex, Austin and Houston

EDUCATION WITH IMMERSION IN THE SPANISH LANGUAGEGive your child the gift of the Spanish language through our comprehensive, academic Preschool! Our unique immersion program provides academic excellence while giving the children the invaluable skill of comprehension and use of the Spanish language and culture!

Sign up now forSummer Camps

Two week campsfor kids ages 3-11

Camps start June 7th

Preschool and Kindergarten classes now enrolling for Fall 2010

Comprehensive curriculum designed for children 2 to 5 years old

Math Activities • Science Experiments • Art • Music Reading • Fine/Gross Motor Development Centers • Multi-Cultural Activities • FUN

Extended hours now available

Combining early childhood education with language learning

Call Now for More information on summer camps

and fall enrollment

Childhood is the crucial stage of an individ-

ual’s life. It plays a key role in building the

foundation of physical, mental and emotion-

al development of a man. Hence, it is vital

for the parents to find the best means that

will support the overall development of their

kids. As, it is the music that attracts kids the

most and inspires them as well, this can be

the best aid for them to learn and grow.

Music for children is widely used in schools

to teach the basic lessons of education to the

kids. However, these days, the parents are

waking up to the benefits of music in shap-

ing their children’s life and emphasizing on

providing music education to their children.

Link Between Kids Music and Intelligence

Recent studies have proved that teaching

music to kids helps the growth of left side

of their brain that is believed to be involved

with processing language and reasoning.

As the development of brain continues for

many years after the birth, music education

in the young age sharpens the brain and

organizes the circuits of the brain in specific

ways.

The children’s songs are composed and

developed keeping in mind the subjects that

interest the kids the most. Hence, with such

Benefits of Teaching Music To Children

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Programs offered:• Parent & Tot• Kindergym ages 3-5• Girls & boys classes• Girls & boys team• Birthday parties• Summer camps

CALL TODAY972-712-4644

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SUMMER CAMPSFree T-shirt when you sign up for summer camps Before May 1, 2010.

Must bring in this ad.

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FREE Trial Class & FREE Drama Kids T-shirtCreating Confidence in Kids!

mckinneykidsmagazine July/Aug 2010 �1www.northtexasmagazines.com

rhymes or the compositions, the toddlers will not only develop

an inner desire to learn music, but also acquire smart mind.

Students, who study arts such as music and painting, learn

to become more creative in their approach. As the questions

about the arts don’t have an ‘only’ right answer, the kids learn

to find various solutions to the problems. Learning musical in-

struments increases concentration. Even the music for children

touches various aspects of life and exposes the students to a

world of experiences. It is the recognized form of intelligence

and makes the children smarter.

Music for Children Develops Other Positive Attitudes

Music education helps to develop the glimpse of the children

for different cultures. As learning music needs discipline, that

particular skill is reflected in their communication and cogni-

tive skills. The innocent and attractive children’s song develop

compassion and empathy in the heart of the learners. As

learning arts takes a lot of effort in terms of concentration and

patience, it improves the craftsmanship of the students. The

children learn to stretch their inner resources while learning

the art as every achievement demand a new level of excel-

lence.

Art is the best means of self expression which leads to self-

esteem. Good orchestra needs coordination, commitment and

individual performance and it teaches the participants about

the teamwork skills. When the young performers participate in

the competition, it helps them conquer their fear and devel-

ops potency to take risk. Moreover, kids songs are the means

to bridge the gap between the innocent world around the

child and the responsibilities of the real world.

These days, most of the employers are looking for multi-di-

mensional workers. Music education, which starts with kids

music, improves the communication skill and cooperative at-

titude of the children and cultivate the qualities of an efficient

employee in them. As teamwork is the most important quality

that is shaped by learning music, the lessons help an individual

in workplace as well.

Music education is not just an added qualification of your

child’s career, but a crucial part of his complete education. Par-

ents, who encourage their kids to learn music, provide them

with an environment that construct their future and nurture

their overall development.

Site Booster offersZ Kids Music specializing in offering kids personal-

ized CDs by incorporating the child’s name in the song. You can order

your personalized kids music at http://zkidsmusic.com.

mckinney kids magazine

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