There was something for everyone as families from all over North Texas converged at the Dallas Kids Expo at Dallas Market Hall from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 21-22. Capping off spring break, the energetic weekend included interactive exhibitor booths, live entertainment, educational activities, multiple bounce houses, arts and crafts, sports-related games and goodies.  

Vicki Williams and Paulina Parker of Spanish Schoolhouse provided bilingual story time complete with props and audience participation. Jennifer Hamada of Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch set up a petting zoo with a Ring-Tailed Lemur and a baby kangaroo. Noah’s Ark Animal Workshop invited children to help make stuffed animals. There was also one-on-one instruction and hands-on training available from the Dallas Fire Department.

“We use a 911 simulator to teach kids what to say and do if they ever have to dial 911,” said Willie Reynolds, senior fire rescue officer.

The event paired parents with professionals who specialize in child-related products and services that included medical care, childcare, mentoring programs, summer camps, and recreational activities. Information sessions were offered to parents every hour on topics such as Talking to Your Toddler, Show Business: Are You Right for It?, and Organizing Your Kids.

The expo kicked into high gear with a show-stopping hip-hop dance routine by the Mavs ManiAACs, an all-male entertainment group that performs at Dallas Mavericks home games.DKE founder and director Ebony Smith, staff members and attendees joined them on stage for a popular line dance. Topping it all off was a doggie fashion show in which children walked primped pooches down the runway.

Linda Sparks who brought along daughters Raven, 17, and Raegan, 8, said she enjoyed all that Dallas Kids Expo had to bring.

“It was entertaining and relating to kids. We’ll come again,” she said.