The Official Blog of Morningside Nannies
In the heat of Houston’s sizzling summers, there is nothing better than taking the little ones out to play in the water. Not only can the kids cool off, but they’ll get some much needed exercise as well. Parents and caregivers are also able to get some much-needed relief from the heat and fun times at these amazing water parks and playgrounds in the Houston area.
Located just thirty minutes from Downtown Houston, Splashtown offers thirty-eight waterslides, a wave pool, an activity pool, and much more for kids of all ages. Daily admission for adults and kids over forty-eight inches is just $31.99.
Burnett Bayland Park is one of the many parks in Houston that offers a “sprayground.” This is an area with soft rubber flooring and various sprinklers. At Burnett Bayland, the colorful splashpad has arches that spray water as well as a sprinkling flower, cactus, spiral, and water cannons. This sprayground is free to attend.
Located about a half hour from Houston in Baytown is Pirates Bay. This pirate themed waterpark offers many water slides, a play center with a dumping bucket, a surf simulator, a lap pool, and more. The price is affordable, at just $17 for those over forty-eight inches and $12 for shorter folks. This amusement center also has free parking and allows its patrons to bring in coolers, which is becoming a rarity with many similar establishments.
It may take you close to an hour to get there from Houston, but Schlitterbahn Galveston Island offers a ton of water attractions for all ages and even has a new zip line ride for the adventurous set. Whether you are looking to swim in a heated pool, soak up some rays on Kristal Beach, or zoom down slippery slides, this waterpark has what you’re looking for. Ticket prices start at $57.48 for children and this includes a towel and a souvenir cup with free refills. You can also bring your own picnic to save on food costs.
North Shore Rotary is a Houston park that offers a very nice water playground in addition to its many other amenities. As with all of Houston’s spraygrounds, it is free. You will also find a basketball court, regular playground, and hiking trails here.
Hackberry Park’s twelve-hundred square foot free sprayground is adjacent to a lovely lake and features squirting turtles and lily pads as well as in-ground geysers that are sure to delight the kids. This park also has a walking trail, pavilion, and playground.
A forty minute drive from Houston can land you at the Kemah Boardwalk. If you are looking to get wet, head to the center of the Plaza where you will find dancing water fountains that the kids can play in to get cool. After that, check out the thrill ride, The Beast, a speedboat ride on the lake. Kemah Boardwalk also offers tons of dry rides and attractions, but there are plenty of rest tents you can stop at in between to enjoy cool water on a hot day.
Moody Gardens, located in Galveston Island, has plenty to cool off the kids on hot days. When you arrive, head straight to Palm Beach where you will find a wave pool, lazy river, splash pad, water slides, and an adventure area complete with a dump bucket. There are many other attractions at Moody Gardens as well, such as a 4D Theater, museum, boat ride, and an interactive, ten-story glass rainforest. Admission starts at $17.95 if you want to only do Palm Beach, or $46.95 to take in all that Moody Gardens has to offer.
Located only about fifteen minutes from Houston is the Bellaire Town Square Family Aquatics Center. Here you will find swimming pools, water slides, and a splash area for little ones. If you are looking for a place to get your children swimming lessons, this facility offers those as well. Admission is $10 for non-residents over the age of three. Kids two and under are free. If you opt for a year membership, the cost is $330 for non-residents and this includes use of the heated pools in the off season.
Within Houston’s beautiful Hermann Park you will find many things such as a Japanese Garden, pedal boats, the zoo, and McGovern Lake. You will also find the Buddy Carruth Playground for All Children and, within it, an interactive water play area that is sure to delight.
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Second only to the winter holidays, the back-to-school shopping season is one of the busiest of the year. Kids grow so quickly that replacing their entire wardrobe at least once a year is a must, while keeping up with the trends in technology and the supplies on teachers’ lists is non-negotiable. Thankfully, the Houston area offers a wide array of shopping outlets that will allow you to cross every item off of your child’s back to school shopping list with relative ease and minimal stress. These are ten of the can’t-miss spots when you’re outfitting your little one for another year of academic excellence.
Keeping kids’ wardrobe up-to-date and fitting properly can be a full-time job, not to mention an expensive one. That’s where Clothes for Kids Resale, Houston’s oldest consignment shop for children’s clothing, enters the picture. Stocked with gently worn and stylish clothing at attractive prices, this is one spot you can’t afford to skip during the back to school rush.
When you need to knock out a shopping trip and a haircut in one fell swoop, Little Lords and Ladies certainly fits the bill. With a high-end clothing store and a kid-specific salon on-site, you’ll be able to score great clothing finds while your little one gets the trendiest cut of the season.
From clothing to pencils, from sneakers to staplers, there’s little you won’t be able to cross of of your back to school shopping list through this mega-retailer. The biggest of all big-box stores, Walmart offers competitive prices and a staggering selection for all your kids’ back to school needs.
A small boutique offering a selection of books, toys and clothing, Tulips & Tutus is the perfect place to snag unique clothing that sets your child apart from the crowd. There’s also dress-up clothing to foster imaginative play after school, along with high-end products from Adan and Anais and Melissa and Doug.
Nominated for the Best Children’s Boutique award through the Houston A List, Little Patooties stocks clothing for infants through preteens in styles ranging from casual to formal. On the higher end of kids’ boutiques, Little Patooties isn’t the place to score great bargains but is a great stop for the little trendsetter in your family.
Known for offering designer clothing at department store prices, Target is on the higher end of the big-box spectrum without being exorbitantly expensive. As an added bonus, you’ll also be able to snag the school supplies your child needs in one trip.
Chock-full of adorable fashions for kids, Janie and Jack is one of Houston’s premier destinations when it comes to clothing for the smaller set. Classic clothes that allow kids to look like kids while still retaining the class and style of timeless pieces for adults, this is the place to be if you’re looking to stock up on staples for your little fashion plate.
When spending a fortune for clothing that will be outgrown or ruined in a matter of months seems extravagant and isn’t in the budget, a stop by Crayons Children’s Resale Shop may be in order. Clean, organized and full of good quality items and prices that can’t be beat, Crayons should be at the top of your list for back to school bargain hunting.
A chain specializing in kids’ clothing at fair prices and of great quality, The Children’s Place is the ideal stop for snagging the better items in your little one’s back to school wardrobe. Located in the Galleria, The Children’s Place is also known for offering hot promotions that lead to huge savings.
When it comes to high-end shopping at big-box prices, you just can’t beat the retail outlet. Houston Premium Outlets offers a variety of stores full of kids’ fashions, along with plenty of major labels for adults. Shop for the entire family in one trip, and stock up on the great deals available in every store.
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Digital cameras and social networking sites might have made capturing and sharing your family photos easier than ever, but one thing that even the most advanced technology can’t replace is the beauty of a great family portrait shot by a true professional. From getting reticent kids to smile to making sure that they capture the most flattering shot possible, family photographers make formal family portraits beautiful and worthy of proud display. For families in the Houston area, these are ten of the best photographers in the area with a specialization in family portraits.
Located in the Heights, The Shelby Studio specializes in family, maternity, and newborn photography. We deliver stunning portraits and an exceptional studio experience. 
Each portrait session is artistically designed, styled, and photographed by our team of creative professionals. Our portrait sessions highlight each unique personality, genuine emotion, and relationships between family members. We work closely with our clients to achieve a look that reflects their personal style through our fine art portraiture. (photo courtesy of The Shelby Studio)
Not only does Houston photographer Evin Thayer pride himself on his ability to capture the best and most exciting moments in a baby’s first year, but also his specialization in kids’ and family portraiture. He offers a free consultation for family photographs, so stop by his website or call him today to schedule an appointment.
The name says it all when it comes to this Houston photography hotspot. The staff photographers are experienced in working with infants and small children, ensuring that you’ll get a great shot regardless of how young your children may be. There are a variety of settings on-site for family photos, including several rooms, a garden and a porch for outdoor shots.
Nationally published and celebrated for her work with the smaller set, Shalonda of Chubby Cheek Photography is a family favorite when it comes to Houston-area photographers.
From newborn photos to senior pictures and everything in between, Christie Lacy Photography is a seasoned pro in the Houston area. She covers Cypress, Tomball, Katy and the Houston metro area, and is a favorite among parents that have the family portraits to prove that she’s one of the best in town.
Nicole Denae works on location, bringing interesting shops and a wealth of exciting, original ideas to each and every shoot. She’s lauded as a natural with children and babies, one of the more challenging subject areas and one that she handles with ease.
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Heat exhaustion and other heat related illnesses are serious threats to children during Houston’s blazing summers. In fact, heat is the number one weather-related killer in the US, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that most instances of heat stroke can be prevented with preparation and proper monitoring, which is good news for parents of active kids living in Houston. Here are some important tips to keeping your kids safe this summer.
1. Know the Signs
It is important to know the signs of heat related illness so that you can act fast if you see them in your child. If your child is dehydrated they will have a dry sticky mouth, decreased urine output, and appear tired. If it gets worse, your child will have no liquid output at all, not even sweat or tears, and they could have a fever or low blood pressure. If you suspect dehydration, seek medical help and cool and hydrate your child any way you can. Mild heat cramps will display with muscle pain and spasms. If you see this, get your child out of the sun and give her water. Heat exhaustion will show as extreme fatigue, dizziness, changes in pulse, pale skin, and headache. If you see any of these, or other unnerving signs, get your child out of the sun and give him water. Cool his body by removing excess clothing and by dabbing the skin with cool, damp towels. If this does not help within twenty minutes, call your pediatrician. Symptoms of a heatstroke are a temperature of over 104°, red skin, disorientation, seizures, and loss of consciousness. If you think you see any of these signs in your child, call 911 right away.
2. Never, Ever Leave Children in Cars
Since 1998, there have been five hundred and seventy heatstroke deaths resulting from children being left in cars. A car feels like a sauna on hot days. If you do not have adequate air conditioning in your car, try not to travel with your children during the hottest hours of the day (typically between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon). Before getting in the car, start it and run the air conditioning to cool down seats and seatbelts. Never leave a child in the car, not even for a minute while you run into a store or talk to a friend. Keep your vehicle doors and trunk locked at all times when the car is not in use to prevent a child from playing in the vehicle and accidentally getting locked in. To ensure you do not forget your child in the car, leave items you need in the backseat next to them such as your cell phone, briefcase, or purse.
3. Use Sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to children every two hours when outside. Even if it is a cloudy day, sunscreen is still necessary. Dress infants aged 6 months and younger in protective clothing, keep them in the shade and only apply sunscreen to small, exposed parts of the body if protective clothing and shade is not available.
4. Limit Outdoor Activity and Take Water Frequent Breaks
It’s a good idea to limit the outdoor activity to the hours when the sun is not at its strongest, such as before ten in the morning or after four in the afternoon. Have your child take frequent water breaks while playing outdoors by coming inside into the air conditioning or retreating to the shade to dissipate some of the body’s extra heat.
5. Ensure That There is a Trained Professional at Camps and Sporting Events
It is very important that day camps and sporting events have a trained professional on staff that knows how to recognize and respond to heat illnesses.
6. Dress Kids Properly
Dress your children in loose fitting clothing made from a thin material. Have your kids wear light colors that reflect the sun’s rays, rather than dark colors that absorb them. A wide brimmed hat, preferably a sun or straw hat is best to protect the head.
7. Get Children Used to the Heat Gradually
Kids often respond better to the heat when they’re exposed to it gradually. For example, on the first day of hot weather, you would not want your child spending hours vigorously exercising outdoors. You’d want him to spend a very short amount of time outdoors and then spend a bit longer outside on the next day. This is especially important for kids playing sports over the summer.
8. Travel With Emergency Items
If you are out and about with your little ones on a hot day, you will want to carry the following items with you: extra water, instant ice packs, thermometers, and sunscreen. These would be in addition to your usual first aid items such as bandages and tweezers.
9. Keep Children Hydrated
Kids should drink two full glasses of water before going outside and then drink every twenty minutes while out there. Have them replenish themselves fully afterwards with at least another two glasses. Do not give children caffeinated beverages or beverages with sugar, which includes juice and fruit drinks. Sports drinks are okay, but it’s always best to check with a doctor as some contain a high amount of sodium and other questionable ingredients.
10. Seek Shelter
The best way to prevent heat stroke is by simply staying out of the heat. Keeping kids home in the air conditioning, or taking them to air conditioned places such as indoor play facilities, the mall, the movies, or the library are all great ways to get them out of the sweltering heat. You can make arrangements to be transported to Houston’s library by calling 3-1-1.
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The Thursday before Mother’s Day has been declared National Mom’s Night Out by founder Rachel Wright. Ms. Wright established the day as a time when mothers could get together with friends, go play or do whatever they wanted to, without worrying about kids in tow. Celebrating Mom’s Night Out means she gets time off to do exactly what she wants to do, and can recharge herself. If you missed it, don’t be discouraged; you still get to declare your own night out whenever you need one.
1. Join Meetup Groups
One way to get out of the usual routine, make friends, network for play dates for the kids and yourself is to get involved with a Meetup Group. Some groups do things on a regular basis while others meet for specific activities. You’ll find a wide variety of activities from baby yoga to trips to the zoo and so much more.
2. Visit a Favorite Restaurant
Make a date with yourself. Get dressed up and go to your favorite restaurant, and order a meal that makes you happy. Take a book to read, or get a booth or table in the corner and do a little people watching. If you prefer not to dine alone, make a date with your best friend and have some girl talk.
3. Bowling
Grab some friends and go bowling without the kids for a Mom’s Night Out! Check with your neighborhood bowling alley to find out when they hold Cosmic Bowling or other fun events, and plan your escape around that time.
4. Visit the Museum
So many natives of this world-class city live in an area bursting with all kinds of exciting things to do, but rarely take advantage of them. Tourists come from all over to see things that are in your own backyard, but you are so used to seeing them that it seldom occurs to you to visit them yourself. If you’ve never been to Houston’s Museum District, now is the time to don your walking shoes and check out the fabulous offerings right under your nose. Plan your visit at the right time, and it may even be free.
5. Take a Walk in the Park
Summertime is a great time for enjoying the parks in the Houston area. Take a book, or your camera, or both and just enjoy being out of doors and communing with nature. Since it gets dark later in summertime, you can enjoy the serenity of the park after dinner with the family, if you like. If you frequent a particular park with your kids, now would be a ripe time for explore other areas for your own amusement.
6. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
Ahhh! Relaxation and more! If you’ve never had a spa day, this is a treat you will truly enjoy. Take time off from motherhood for a few hours, and get rejuvenated. Your troubles will be massaged away, and the aromatherapy will help you forget about all the concerns that have been plaguing your mind. You deserve to be indulged for a little while, so find a spa that caters to your needs and let your troubles melt away.
7. Window Shop at the Galleria
Browse the offerings in this high-end mall without spending a dime, or treat yourself to something in a blue box at Tiffany’s. While it can be tempting to drop a bit of money when you’re surrounded by such luxury, there’s nothing wrong with looking over the goods without making a purchase. You don’t need to buy anything, just brows around the shops and pretend that your bank account is unlimited. The Galleria is a perfect place to explore. Creative types with a flair for interior design will get excellent decorating ideas, and fashionistas can browse the lines of posh design houses from around the world.
8. Go Skydiving
Moms are forced to keep their feet planted firmly on the ground, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t spend a bit of time with their head in the clouds once in a while. If you’re the adventurous type and you want to do something completely wild and crazy, take the plunge and go skydiving. If you can do this, you can do anything! The thrill of flying through the air will invigorate you for years to come.
9. Go to the Theater
Houston has a lot to offer where theater is concerned. Whether it’s a community theater or something special like Miller Outdoor Theater, you’ll enjoy the break away letting your mind travel into another world.
10. Meditate in a Special Place
Sometimes what you really need is just a quiet place to collect your thoughts and experience a little peace. One such place is Rothko Chapel. Just sit and drink in the beauty of your surroundings, and let the peace and serenity fill you up.
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When the time comes to send your little one to preschool, you’ll naturally want to find the very best school available to ensure that her academic career starts off on the right foot. For parents living in the Greater Houston area, this task can be a bit less arduous than in other parts of the country due to the fact that Houston boasts a plethora of highly rated preschools. These ten top the lists of parents across the metropolitan area, and are definitely worth checking out if the time for enrollment is nearing.
While La Petite is a national chain that accepts children from six weeks through pre-kindergarten, the emphasis on “play with a purpose” and strong math, science, language and social learning distinguishes them from big box daycare providers. Kids are assisted in learning about a variety of subjects through a play-focused, age-specific curriculum that encourages their natural curiosity and aptitude for learning.
In addition to before and after school programs to help working parents meet their scheduling demands, this non-profit organization offers preschool enrichment classes that include computers, dance and gymnastic instruction as well as kindergarten readiness programs. Preschool teachers are all fully accredited, which means that your child is being taught by trained and experienced educators.
The educational philosophy at The Children’s Courtyard is based upon the High/Scope system pioneered by famed developmental psychologist Jean Piaget. The Frog Street Pre-K curriculum is one of the strongest in Houston, developed by expert Pam Schiller, Ph.D.
More than forty years ago, the Gerber company founded Childtime Learning Centers. With the “Empowered Child” curriculum, kids learn introductory science, art, math and language skills that will help them as they embark upon an academic career in kindergarten and beyond. In addition to the two Houston locations, there are nine locations throughout the surrounding area.
Winner of the 2010 Parents’ Picks award, The Becker Early Childhood Center is located within the Congregation of Emanu El and offers both Judaic and secular programs. Becker Early Childhood Center is also accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and offers programs for little ones from fifteen months of age through five years.
In addition to a Kindergarten Preparatory program for preschool-aged kids, Esperanza School also offers a Pre-K Prep program directed at three-year-olds to help ready them for the new experiences of preschool. Written and spoken language skills, vocabulary building, math, science art and fine motor skills are all emphasized in the Esperanza School program.
Kids not only learn the fundamentals of pre-reading and literacy skills at The Woods Private School, but also strong lessons in social awareness. At an age where it’s not always easy to know what is and is not behaviorally appropriate, young students of The Woods are encouraged to build the social skills that will carry them through adulthood. Computer literacy, Spanish vocabulary lessons, sight words and early mathematics are just a sampling of the entries on The Woods pre-kindergarten curriculum.
Since 1984, the Montessori School of Downtown has been providing kids from infancy through the early elementary years with a strong education based upon the principals of the Montessori philosophy. Self-directed learning and emotional growth are the name of the game at Montessori School of Downtown, which boasts satellite campuses in Pearland, Clear Lake, Medical Center and Silverlake.
An American Montessori Society full member school with accreditation and licensing through the state of Texas, The Innovative School is a private Montessori campus with a library and multi-purpose space, as well as a fenced playground area.
Every child is different, and special in her own unique way. The Westview School understands that kids with learning differences require special attention, which is why their curriculum is based upon helping kids from age two through middle school who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, Aspergers Syndrome or Pervasive Development Disorders. Each preschool class has only five students, with a teacher and a teacher’s assistant, and is grouped with careful consideration of receptive language and learning readiness levels.
Keep in mind that you may want to begin your preschool search quite a while before your child is ready to enroll, as the best schools tend to fill up months or even years in advance. Waiting lists aren’t a problem at all of the top-rated preschools in Houston, but you’ll still want to double check before getting your heart set on one school only to find that classes are filled far into the future.
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Houston summers are known for their hot, muggy days that can keep kids home enjoying the AC instead of being out having fun. This is no way to spend the summer vacation months! The best way to beat the heat is to find family friendly destinations that combine cooling off with with fun activities for kids of all ages. Here is a list of ten great places to take the kids to cool off while making the most of summer at the same time.
In the heart of Houston, Discovery Green offers many great activities as well as ways to cool off. The park has a mist tree and the Gateway Fountain as well as a dog park and other amenities. There are also indoor activities and restaurants if the kids need a break from the sun. The park is on over 12 acres and even includes a lake where the kids can pilot remote control boats.
If the sun is too much to bear to be outside, don’t go inside, go underground instead! The downtown tunnels offer six miles of movie theaters, retail shops and restaurants located 20 feet below ground. Take the kids to a matinee or for lunch while enjoying the cool comfort of being below ground.
Explore the great unknown world of space and stay cool at the same time. The Space Center offers great tours that combine learning with fun activities for the kids, including their Kids Space Place and movies in the center’s theaters. It is a great destination for the entire family, with something for everybody.
Although technically not in Houston, Pirate’s Bay is located only 30 minutes east of Houston in Baytown and is worth the drive. The water park is pirate-themed throughout and has a river that flows through the park for relaxing and cooling off. Even small kids can have fun with their zero-depth beach for wading and the bigger kids will love the surfing simulator.
If you want a low cost option, Hermann park is free and has a great playground for the kids. They also have a Japanese garden to meander through, with bridges, waterfalls and beautiful exotic plants. To stay even cooler, rent a paddle boat and splash around Lake Plaza. When the hot sun gets too much, you and the kids can jump on the Hermann Park Railroad for a ride around the park.
This fun filled family destination is located just 20 miles from downtown Houston and is located right on the water overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. There is all types of amusement games and rides along with shopping and restaurants. All day passes are available for unlimited rides at economical prices. Throughout the year there are a variety of events and festivals to enjoy as well.
Take the kids out for a picnic lunch in the Waterwall Park while enjoying the cooling mist of the Williams Waterwall, an iconic Houston landmark. The man-made falls are almost seven stories high and are in a horseshoe shape, releasing about 11,000 gallons of water every minute in breath-taking beauty.
Over 6,000 animals call the Houston Zoo home and it is a great place to watch and learn about many different types of animals and ecosystems. Indoor exhibits such as the Natural Encounters give kids a chance to see the animals up close and personal, with a clear tube that goes right through the piranha exhibit.
This interactive museum was rated America’s #1 children’s museum by Parents magazine. The museum has several stories of exhibits to explore inside and the Flow Works water play zone outside. It is a great place to cool off while the kids learn through many hands on activities.
Nothing says cool like ice skating on a hot summer day. The Galleria shopping center not only has close to 400 shops to choose from, it also has an indoor skating rink! Take the kids out for some needed exercise on skates. Afterward, have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants that the Galleria has to offer.
Although the summer can be stiflingly hot in Houston, there are still many places to go that will keep you cool while having fun with the kids. Don’t let the heat stop the kids from having a great summer full of fun!
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Hot Houston Heat
Houston is located in southeast Texas, and has many attractions for families. Named after Sam Houston, the popular general and elected the president of part of Texas in 1836. This historic city is nestled by the Gulf of Mexico and surrounded by four bayous that pass through the city. Although the city is known worldwide as a energy hub, both for oil and natural gas, it also has a teeming culture center that no family should miss. With the coast being so close, there are many natural beaches and adventures to go on with the family, but do not miss the chance to visit some of the top ten buildings and attractions within the city as well.
1. Lynden Johnson Space Center
What kid is not fascinated by outer space and those who have went beyond the atmosphere of the earth? A perfect setting for the entire family to learn more about the U.S. space program, the space center is a great learning opportunity for the entire family with interesting exhibits and information about the history of U.S. space exploration.
2. Wortham Fountain
If you visit Houston during the hot summer months, one attraction that is not to be missed is the Wortham Fountain. Since 1978, the fountain has been a beautiful and refreshing addition to those who pass by the park belt on Allen Parkway. Because of its flowery mist, it has also been referred to as the dandelion fountain.
3. San Jacinto Monument
If you want to really see the lone star of Texas, you need to see the San Jacinto Monument. The National Historic Landmark located in the vicinity of Deer Park, Texas is adorned with the state’s symbol. The observation deck offers a phenomenal view of the city, with a 567-foot column that is topped with the infamous lone star symbol.
4. Astrodome
The Astrodome, which sports fans of the older variety may know under it’s previous title of the Houston Astrodome, has the notoriety of being the first domed stadium in the United States. It was even named the “Eighth Wonder of the World” in 1965 and was the basis for many domed arenas to come. It has been home to the Houston Astros baseball team, the Houston Oilers football, site of the Bluebonnet Bowl, and as well as many other sports events. A great attraction for any sports loving family to visit.
5. Houston Galleria
Built in 1970 and with many subsequent additions over the years ,the Galleria is now over 2.4 million square feet. With over 350 all overlooking the skating rink, the Houston Galleria is an amazing feat in shopping architecture.
6. The Water Wall Fountain and Williams Tower
Fountains are always something spectacular to observe, and the Water Wall Fountain with its multi-storied water wall is a popular place for tourists and locals to enjoy and take photos. With the 64-story Williams Tower that rises over 900 feet and is the 4th tallest skyscraper in the state of Texas, this is one public location in the Houston area that you’ll want to be sure you visit with the entire family.
7. The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art
Oddly enough, this strangely built farmhouse ended up on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Folk art and other eclectic forms of artistic expression make this house a family attraction that helps to inspire a love and appreciation of art in visitors great and small.
8. Pennzoil Place
With the destruction of the twin towers in New York during the September 11th tragedies, the twin towers in Houston are even more special. The towers were built in 1975 and designed by noted architect Philip Johnson, and can be an optical illusion to some, seeming to be one or two towers, depending on how you observe them.
9. 1940 Air Terminal Museum
This museum is actually housed in the original art-deco air terminal. The building itself is interesting to see, and the exhibits inside give a glimpse at aviation history. The museum is located at the current William P. Hobby Airport and should be at the top of your list if there’s an air travel enthusiast in the family.
10. JPMorgan Chase Tower
The JPMorgan Chase Tower is the highest building in Texas, and the 10th tallest building in the United States, so you cannot miss it on the Houston skyline. It was originally known as the Texas Commerce Tower and rises 1,002 feet above sea level.
Houston holds many adventures for all members of the family, young and older alike. Enjoy the time exploring all that this southern city has to offer.
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Parents need to be aware of the benefits of music lessons. These benefits go far beyond learning to play a few songs on the piano or strum some tunes around a summer campfire. Montreal researchers discovered that music lessons before age seven generate stronger networks in the brain, and also revealed that the changes in the brain extend beyond the skill of playing an instrument. Language and reasoning skills are sharpened by musical instruction, so you’re actually giving your child an academic head start when you enroll her in classes. These are ten of the most popular and high-quality haunts for pint-sized musicians in the making living in the Houston area.
or the tiny tot from birth to five years of age, learning and play are combined here. The Central Houston location at 1990 Post Oak Road offers classes throughout the week. Early musical instruction is a great way to help your child reach developmental milestones, so stop by Gymboree to find the perfect class for your little virtuoso.
Another program for very small children is located on Memorial Drive in Houston at the Presbyterian Church. Research-based music instruction for kids gives them an opportunity to get physical while they learn to make music together. You can take your newborn to this program designed for kids from birth to five. The Music Together program is built on the premise that humans are inherently musical. Adult involvement is strongly encouraged in this developmentally appropriate early childhood music curriculum.
If you are looking for short term music lessons, Project GreenRoom may be the option for you. They offer singing lessons for children and teens in a series of two 4-week sessions. Guitar lessons are also available, along with acting and modeling. Kids will enjoy the games and skill-building activities, and they will have opportunities to perform as well.
Add a little cultural flavor to your kids music lessons by letting them participate in the Diaz Music Institute’s three week summer music workshop. Energetic, caring instructors work with elementary, middle and high school students. This non-profit fine arts institution is known for its youth ensemble, Caliente. These young people perform around the greater Houston area and nationwide. The institute is dedicated to the preservation and performance of Latin Music.
Kids can start classes in the Kindermusik classes at lyric music studio when they’re three years old. They will learn to sing with other children, but Lyric Music studio also has group piano classes for kids 7 to 11. Youngsters over the age of 10 can also take private piano lessons. Dulcimer classes are added to the roster during the summer.
Parents who want a wide choice of instrumental instruction will want to check into Tempo School of Music. A few experienced and dedicated professional music instructors created Tempo School of Music in West Houston over ten years ago. All of the lessons here are private, and you have a choice of guitar, piano, bass guitar, voice, sax, flute and clarinet. No matter what age your child is or what style your child would like to learn, the instructors at Tempo School of Music are ready to play.
This music school offers the Music Together curriculum, so parents and caregivers spend time with the little ones in music related activities. Prelude teaches classes that help parents and children learn about music and develop the ear. At the same time they learn the fundamentals like rhythm, pitch, tempo, and dynamics. This is all taught in a relaxed, encouraging environment. It’s the perfect way to introduce your little one to the world of music.
Parents intent on getting private lesson for their children may be interested in Bridges Academy of Fine Arts. Some of the most experienced instructors in Houston are affiliated with the Academy. They offer private lessons in piano, voice, strings, winds, and guitar. Registration is ongoing, and the director is available to chat anytime concerning your child’s musical education. Songplay is also offered for infants and toddlers and their parents so whatever the age of your child, the Academy has a class that will fit.
The Suzuki School of Houston was founded in 1973, offering generations of kids the opportunity to learn the violin from a young age. For parents seeking a Suzuki-method curriculum for their youngster, SSH is definitely worth a visit.
Learn about band dynamics, secrets of the trade, performance skills and rock and roll history at this exciting summer camp. It is the vision of rock guitarist and songwriter Jeff Carlisi of the band .38 Special. Young musicians have an opportunity to interact with industry professionals, and at the end of each session they have an opportunity to perform live on stage in front of an audience. If you have a mini-rocker between the ages of seven and ten, check out Camp Jam Kidz. These youngsters will have a chance to learn an instrument of their choosing with more hands-on instruction. They also get to play their first gig at the end of the week.
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With the beaches of Galveston so close to the Greater Houston area and so many incredible outdoor options for kids’ birthday parties, there’s always room for celebrating your little one’s big day. As the mercury rises and summer temperatures hit their peak, though, the idea of beating the heat with an indoor party might be more appealing. These ten locations are among the most exciting in the area for kids’ parties, keeping all of your pint-sized guests cool without forcing you to host a large party in your home.
With themes like Glitz and Glam, Pirates, Super Hero and Pretty Princess in addition to basic and signature soirées, Wonderwild is a unique and exciting option for your child’s next birthday bash. Recommended for kids from one to eight years old, Wonderwild will provide everything you need to throw the bash of the year. Just bring the cake, and Wonderwild will do the rest!
It’s important to get kids moving and keep them physically active, but stimulation of their creative abilities is also essential. Youngsters with artistic leanings are sure to love a birthday party hosted by Potter’s Wheel, which offers a selection of paint-your-own-pottery party packages.
With four basic packages, a variety of optional add-ons and discounted options for weekday parties, Stomping Grounds Playland offers a wide variety of options for any budget. Groups of all sizes can be accommodated, while Stomping Grounds will even make arrangements for food and favors so that all you and your little one have to do is show up to the party!
There’s something about a firefighter that seems to capture the imagination of even the most pragmatic child. If you’ve got a little one with an affinity for the heroes in fire trucks, a birthday party at the Houston Fire Museum is sure to be a blast. The Museum will accommodate up to fifteen guests, provide themed plates, napkins and cups for the party and a special t-shirt for the birthday girl or boy.
Monkey Bizness hosts private parties seven days a week, so there’s no worry about scheduling conflicts. Your guests will never be forced to share playrooms with other kids and you won’t have to worry about overcrowding. Invitations, balloons, favors, plates, cups, forks and napkins are all available through Monkey Bizness, though there is a fee for some optional products. You can also purchase a pizza and soda package that will feed each and every one of your guests, ensuring that your little one’s party goes off without a hitch.
When it comes to kids’ birthday parties, recurring themes seem to be the norm. After all, there are only so many things you can do. That being said, Houston is home to one of the most innovative and exciting indoor birthday packages around, and it’s not one that would immediately come to most parents’ minds. The Houston Scuba Academy does have a Scuba Rangers program for kids between the ages of eight and twelve, but they also offer a snorkeling party for private groups. Guests are supervised by two trained professionals, who organize games and make sure that everyone is safe. Party packages include snorkeling time, and access to a party room for refreshments and gift opening.
Private birthday party packages at Houston’s Zuma Fun Center include access to outdoor batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts and kiddie rides, but there’s also a popular indoor arcade on the property that allows kids to get out of the sweltering Texas summer heat.
You just can’t go wrong with a classic, which is why the Chuck E. Cheese’s chain is a perennial favorite for birthday parties. The chance to play games and redeem tickets for prizes is sure to light up the eyes of any child, as is the certified kid-friendly fare of pizza and soda. You can even walk in with your guests without party reservations, though walk-in parties don’t include specialty items or promotional pricing packages.
With more than ten thousand square feet of indoor playspaces, including two arenas and two party rooms, Planet Wow is a Texas-sized venue for birthday parties in the Houston area. Private party guests have access to exclusive rooms, which means that you won’t have to worry about getting lost in the crowded shuffle of a busy playroom.
Whether your little girl is craving a full-scale tea party worthy of a princess or her very own spa day complete with sparkling make=up and a mini-facial, Hip Hop Lollipop has her birthday party covered. Themed food and favors, along with custom invitation mailing services and thank you notes are all included, with plenty of additional options available for a small fee.
When you book your child’s party with any indoor playground or party hotspot, be sure that you scope out the options for food and private rooms. Some places allow party hosts to bring in outside food, while others will require you to utilize their catering services. The last thing you’ll want to do is spend a small fortune on an epic cake, only to have it rejected at the door. Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations regarding parties at an indoor facility, and you’ll slash the likelihood of unpleasant surprises.
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