Broward Family Life September 2019 by Broward Family Life

COMPLIMENTARY

SEPTEMBER 2019

Arts

SMARTS THE BRAIN-BOOSTING POWER OF CREATIVE EXPERIENCES

AFTER-SCHOOL

ACTIVITIES

GUIDE Sitter

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT MATCH IS A LOT LIKE DATING

n tio c e l S IDE a ci S pe IN

16 year old Timothy, (center) who received our 50th heart transplant with members of his family and care team.

Elia, who is cancer-free, and her mom, Melanie

I’m Cancer-Free! My stomach pains weren’t just tummy aches. I had cancer. A tumor called a Wilms tumor in my right kidney. It got so big that it was close to my heart. Too close to take it out with surgery. They did lots of chemotherapy to shrink it so they could take it out. Now I’m cancer-free. Joe DiMaggio made this happen. At first I felt scared, but there’s friends all around Joe DiMaggio. They make you feel special. It helped me. My mom says it helped her to not worry so much, and that we were in the best hands possible.

JDCH.com/Cancer

WWW.PSYCHIATRIST4U.COM

The Mind is a Maze YOUR PSYCHIATRIST IS YOUR GUIDE

Open House

oin us an d m ee t ou r Ps yc hia tri st An na Bin de r MD , Ad ria na Ar ist iza ba l AR NP , an d Su si Bli tm an LC MH C.

Sep 10 5-7 pm

5970 SW 18th St Suites E6-E7 Boca Raton, 33433

5-7 pm

10261 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines, 33 02

Sep 12

Refreshments will be

Psych4u

HELPING PATIENTS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE

served!

CALL NOW

500 1-888-Psych4u EXT. (1-888-779-2448)

INFO@PSYCHIATRIST4U.COM

WE S T O N • CO R AL SPR IN GS • BOCA RATON • WELLI NGTON Opening Soon

Animated Classic Film Screening in concert with the South Florida Symphony Orchestra

NOVEMBER 9 • 7 PM Au-Rene Theater

JANUARY 29 Part of the 2019/2020 Classical Series

The Sleeping Beauty

For more information, visit BrowardCenter.org/classical

RUSSIAN NATIONAL BALLET

MARCH 1 • 3 PM Parker Playhouse

Part of the 2019/2020 Dance Series

For more information, visit BrowardCenter.org/dance Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office Group Sales | 954.660.6307

Providing Big Care to Little Hearts

Meet Mia! Mia tripped over a rug and required stitches. Her parents rushed Mia to the Children’s ER at Broward Health Coral Springs. She was treated by a board-certified pediatric ER physician, and quickly was back to having fun again.

Nirit Swerdloff, MD Pediatric ER Medical Director

“We can’t thank the medical team enough for their excellent care. As parents you want to know that your child is getting the best treatment — and she certainly was in great hands!” - Todd & Nicole, Mia’s parents (Parkland residents) The Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Coral Springs is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for children of all ages. Our Children’s

Hospital Provides:

• Children’s Emergency Room • Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit • Level II Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Find a pediatric physician at BrowardHealth.org/Find-Doctor.

• Pediatric Orthopedics & Rehabilitation • Child Life Program

3000 Coral Hills Drive, Coral Springs Follow us:

THE JUNGLE BOOK

SAT, OCT 5, 2019 2:00 PM $15 FAMILY FUN

JUDY MOODY & STINK

THU, OCT 10, 2019 9:30 AM & 11:15 AM $7 Grades 2–6 MUSIC, LANGUAGE ARTS, LITERATURE-BASED

BLACK ANGELS OVER TUSKEGEE

FRI, NOV 8, 2019 10:00 AM AND 11:30 AM $7 GRADES 6–12 MULTI-CULTURAL, SOCIAL STUDIES, THEATER Presented by Living Hope Company

THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS:

LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM MON, NOV 18, 2019 9:30 AM & 11:15 AM $7 GRADES 6–12 SCIENCE, THEATER, LANGUAGE ARTS

Presented by ArtsPower

PALM BEACH SYMPHONY

CHILDREN’S CONCERT SERIES: ONE SMALL STEP WED, OCT 16, 2019 10:15 AM & 11:45 AM $7 GRADES K–5 DANCE, LANGUAGE ARTS, MUSIC, SCIENCE

Presented by Theaterworks USA

THE NUTCRACKER

WED, DEC 18, 2019 10:30 AM $7 GRADES 4–12 DANCE, LANGUAGE ARTS, MUSIC, SOCIAL STUDIES

Presented by Ballet Etudes of South Florida

DRUMLINE LIVE

FRI, JAN 17, 2020 10:30 AM $7 GRADES 6–12 SOCIAL STUDIES, MUSIC, THEATER

Tickets on sale at

2400 CIVIC CENTER PLACE, MIRAMAR, FL 33025 (954) 602-4500

MiramarCulturalCenter.org

contents

SEPTEMBER 2019

departments 12 BROWARD & BEYOND News about the people, places and events in our community.

28 FAMILY HEALTH Mastering the balancing act of your kids’ busy lives.

30 MOM MATTERS Searching for the perfect babysitter can be a lot like dating.

32 FAMILY MAN A chef’s recipe for getting the kids out the door well-fed.

34 HOME TECH New tools to help keep your family’s medical records at your fingertips.

44 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Entertaining and noteworthy things to see and do in every corner of Broward County.

46 WORDS OF WISDOM Well visits to the pediatrician make mom feel sick.

features ON THE COVER: Khloe Longsworth, 10, of Miramar A Cover Angels winner Photographer: Lisa Nalven Special thanks to Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Guitar Center of Coconut Creek.

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

ARTS SMARTS The brain-boosting power of creative experiences.

| browardfamilylife.com

AFTER SCHOOL & ENRICHMENT GUIDE A guide to the best options for kids after the bell rings.

TODAY’S GRANDPARENTS Fun, meaningful ways to make Grandparents Day special. Also, Remember When choices were not so overwhelming?

THIS FREE LITTLE CARD CAN GIVE YOUR CHILD THE EDGE. Start the school year off right...visit the NSU Alvin Sherman Library and discover tools to help you and your child get that extra EDGE! Since 2001, we’ve been building a library for the Broward County community to offer unique educational resources, such as EBSCO LearningExpress which gives FREE, easy-to-use access to test prep to help improve academic skills in reading,

writing, math, social studies and science.

From books and online materials to video games and great programs and events, get more for you and your child with the NSU Alvin Sherman Library card.

Apply for your free library card online at lib.nova.edu/card or visit us in person. Sign up for our electronic newsletter at lib.nova.edu/enews

NSU’S MAILMAN SEGAL CENTER FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

EARLY CHILDHOOD INSTITUTE Preschool and Infant & Toddler Program ar

e ly L ar nin

Explore the only university-based, NAEYCaccredited program in Broward County.

Ages 6 weeks–5 years old ™

Pro

gram

08-072-19SAT

PLAN A VISIT TODAY! 7600 SW 36th Street, Davie, Florida | msc.nova.edu | (954) 262-6914 September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Our mission is to enrich family life in Broward County by offering the highest quality publication and an unparalleled commitment to our readers and our community. PUBLISHER Lisa Goodlin ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Stacey Jacques EXECUTIVE EDITOR Michelle Liem ASSISTANT EDITOR Greg Carannante ASSOCIATE EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Aileen Gardner CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carrie B. Weeks PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Toni Kirkland • Linda Seavey DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Tom Gonzales CONTACT US: 4611 S. University Drive, #224 Davie, FL 33328 Phone (954) 424-7405 info@browardfamilylife.com

For information on where to find Broward Family Life, or to become a distributor, call 954-424-7405 or e-mail info@browardfamilylife.com Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Broward Family Life is published twelve times per year by Family Life Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout Broward County. Broward Family Life is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to Broward Family Life will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is forbidden.

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

September 14 - 15 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Join us all weekend for dancing, black light wall painting and glow in the dark oobleck! Pop into our Art Studio to make a black light t-shirt* for our Glow Party! *Additional Fee Required for T-shirt.

980 macarthur causeway, miami, fl 33132 · 305.373.KIDS(5437) · miamichildrensmuseum.org Miami Children’s Museum receives both private and public funding. MCM is sponsored in part by the City of Miami; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Most families pay nothing and many pay just $15 or $20 a month.

With year-round enrollment, the time to apply is always now:

floridakidcare.org 1-888-540-5437 Asirans Sante ak dante pou timoun.

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

&beyond

BROWARD

An ‘Otterly’ Fascinating Encounter R iver otters can be found throughout most of North America, from the Rio Grande to Canada, even Alaska. And now they can also be found in downtown Fort Lauderdale — in their own two-story, indoor/outdoor playful world, complete with a swimming pool and waterfall — at the Museum of Discovery and Science. From their whiskers to their webbed feet, the museum’s family of river otters can be viewed underwater on the first floor or from above on the second floor. And now the museum’s educational Otter Encounters are giving visitors a new, face-to-face opportunity to interact with the popular, semi-aquatic mammals. Every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 1,

guests can not only feed an otter, they can also participate in a training session with one of the animals, which have long, streamlined and muscular bodies. During the 45-minute encounters, from 1:30-2:15pm, participants also learn about the otter’s diet and get an up-close look at the filtration system that keeps the otter pool clean and fresh. The Otter Encounter costs $50 per person, which includes admission to the museum. Participants must be at least 9 years old. Oneweek advance reservations are required and there is a maximum of six people per group and one group per day. To schedule an encounter, please call 954-713-0930. The museum is at 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. For more information, please visit www.mods.org

A MONTHLONG FAMILY FIESTA From art exhibits and film series to fiestas and playgroup fun, there are many ways throughout the county for families to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. SENSORY SUNDAY: FANTASTIC ¡FIESTA! — All ages are invited to celebrate in the “Musical Shakers” workshop, “Frida Flowers” station and Move-it-Sunday musical movements and dances, Sept. 8, 10am-noon, free with museum admission, Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085. HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH ART EXHIBIT — “Art Expression of France and Argentina,” Sept. 8-Oct. 14, NSU Alvin Sherman Library, 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr., Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-4600. PAPER BUTTERFLY CRAFT — Using paper plates and tissue paper, make a blue morpho butterfly, which lives in the rainforests of Central and South America, Sept. 14, 2pm, free, all ages, no registration required, Miramar Branch Library, 2050 Civic Center Place, 954-357-8090. HISPANIC HERITAGE FILM SERIES — Sept. 16, 23 and 30, 1-3:30pm, Stirling Road Branch Library, 3151 Stirling Rd., Hollywood, 954-357-7533.

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

ART WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN WITH MARIA CRISTINA MUÑOZ — Create artworks inspired by Picasso, Joan Miro and Frida Kahlo, Sept. 18, 4-5pm, space is limited, call to register, Sunrise Dan Pearl Library, 10500 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-357-7440. BILINGUAL TODDLER STORYTIME — Stories, songs and rhymes in English and Spanish, for ages 12-35 months, Sept. 19, 11:30am-noon, Weston Branch Library, 4205 Bonaventure Blvd., 954-357-5430. ¡VIVA PLAYGROUP FUN! — Celebrate the month with fun, for ages up to 2 years, Sept. 19 and 26 and Oct. 3 and 10, 11:15am-noon, Hollywood Branch Library, 2600 Hollywood Blvd., 954-357-7785. MEXICAN SKULL ART COLORING — Use coloring sheets to create decorative skull art, for teens, Sep. 19, 4-5pm, Jan Moran Collier City Learning Library, 2800 NW Ninth Ct., Pompano Beach, 954-357-7673. BAILANDO CARNAVAL @ BIBLIOTECA — Music and dance, for ages 3-6. Sept. 20, 10-11am, North Regional/Broward College Library, 1100 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, 954-201-2626. HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH OPENING ART RECEPTION — Exquisite art pieces, live music and food, Sept. 20, 6pm, free, Bailey Hall at Broward College, 3501 Davie Road, Fort Lauderdale, 954-201-6259. LATIN FEST — A free community celebration of Latin culture through food, drink, music and dance, Sept. 20, 6-10pm, Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park, 954-630-4500. HISPANIC HERITAGE CELEBRATION! — Entertainment, food and more, for all ages, Sept. 28, 2-3pm, West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 954-765-1585.

Broward Schools Embrace Kindness As a climate of hate heats up across the country, Broward County Schools are joining forces with the Anti-Defamation League to lower the temperature. ADL’s No Place for Hate Initiative® will be implemented in all 234 Broward County schools during this school year. With funding from the school district, the initiative will provide a framework for combating bias, bullying and hatred in schools from Pre-K to 12th grade. Among the possible tactics is for schools to create a No Place for Hate® committee, club or coalition of students, staff, administrators, teachers and parents; to have the entire school community sign a resolution or promise of respect; to develop and complete three schoolwide activities to enhance students’ understanding of diversity, bias and inclusion. “We are thrilled that the district’s 270,000 students will be exposed to this dynamic initiative,” says Kiesha Edge, ADL Florida’s Director of Education. “It is a privilege to work with a school system that is envisioning their schools with climates in which students act as allies to each other.” Founded in 1913 in response to an escalating climate of anti-Semitism and bigotry, ADL is the world’s leading antihate organization.

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

&beyond

BROWARD

Computer Science Gets an Upgrade They may be the techno lifeblood of contemporary life, but there’s a concerning disconnect between computers and their popularity as a career choice in the state. Despite the abundance of well-paying jobs, the number of undergraduates enrolled in Florida’s universities who earned degrees in computer science last year amounted to less than 1 percent. However, state legislators recently took a big step — the largest in the nation, actually — toward correcting the shortfall by earmarking $10 million to train more computer science teachers. Signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in June, the initiative also created new flexibility in course requirements in an attempt to entice more high-schoolers to take classes in computer science and stick with it in college. Last year, 2,145 of the 275,000 undergraduates in the state’s 11 universities earned bachelor’s degrees in computer science, according to the State University System of Florida. This, despite the fact that there are over 18,000 open computing jobs in the state — with an average salary of about $80,000 — according to Code.org, a national organization pushing for increased access to computer science classes. Females and black and Hispanic students are particularly underrepresented in the field, Code.org says. For example, the University of Central Florida graduated more computer science majors than any other state university last year. But of the 444 bachelor’s degrees it awarded, women earned only 57 — that’s less than 13 percent. Hoping it would make the subject more attractive, particularly to girls and minority students, legislators eliminated the prerequisite of an “industry certification” exam before a high-school student could swap a computer science class for a math or science class.

Children with Special Needs

Family Resource Fair

Join us for a fun and informative day the whole family will enjoy! Parents can learn more about resources available through special needs organizations in Broward County, while kids can participate in a variety of exciting activities. For more information or to arrange for an American Sign Language interpreter, call Tonya Fox Shaw at 954-276-5293. GIVEAWAYS

ACTIVITIES

REFRESHMENTS ENTERTAINMENT

And More!

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

September 7, 2019 10am – 2pm Signature Grand 6900 State Road 84, Davie

Taste Test Some trendy surprises greeted Broward County students when they lined up in the cafeteria as school started last month. They include vegan choices like Sunbutter and Grape Jelly Sandwich (Sunbutter is made from sunflower seeds), Vegan Bean and Green Chili Burrito and Vegan Chik’n Nugget Salad (a soy blend made to taste like chicken). There are also healthier offerings like Lemongrass Chicken and a dessert with yogurt cookies and No Nut Butter, a chocolatey dipping spread made of yellow peas. It’s part of a Food and Nutrition Services effort to enhance school menus with more “clean-label” selections, foods that contain more natural ingredients with less fillers and no artificial ingredients or synthetic chemicals. But, not to worry, this year’s menus haven’t forsaken welcome comfort foods — such warm, home-cooked-style meals as Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Macaroni and Cheese in a Corn Bread Bowl and Fish Sticks with Tartar Sauce. The dishes were taste-tested by 200 students from Watkins Elementary School in Pembroke Park and Nova Middle School in Davie at an annual Student Food Show. The kids rated the dishes from “gross” to “awesome.” The “awesomes” made it onto the menus. Palm Beach County students had their own taste test last month and also gave a thumbs up to new trendy items like a string-cheese-style blueberry and mozzarella stick, creamy alfredo pasta, a spicy omelette made with pepper jack cheese and a mandarin chicken salad. Healthier offerings include vegan dishes like falafel or salad with vegetables grown at local farms — and even sugary cereals like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms and Cocoa Puffs, which are specially formulated with less sweetener and whole grains as the first ingredient. Broward school lunch prices are $2, $2.35 and $2.50 for elementary, middle and high school students, respectively. In Palm Beach County, it’s $2.05 for elementary students and $2.30 for middle and high-schoolers. Breakfast is free in both counties and there is also a reduced-price program for eligible students.

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Arts

SMARTS The brain-boosting power of creative experiences BY SHANNON DEAN

Creative Arts RESOURCES Here are some virtual resources to help introduce or enhance your child’s exposure to the creative arts:

Language/Dramatic Arts E-Learning For Kids has an extensive archive of activities to expose children to literature, with sections on literary devices, poetry, drama and prose. https://en.e-learningforkids.org/ language-arts/ Storyline Online has a huge collection of videos that feature celebrities and teachers reading or acting out popular stories and books. Examples are Kevin Costner’s wonderful reading of “Catching the Moon” or Lily Tomlin’s take on “Hey, That’s My Monster.” www.storylineonline.net/library/

n a highly competitive world that places a huge premium on easily measured achievements, creative arts are sometimes considered an extra for which there is not enough time or money. However, experts believe that this thinking is dated, because research indicates that the arts are every bit as beneficial to brain development and learning as traditional academics.

Visual Arts Artsology uses fun games and activities to expose children of all ages to the visual arts, music, literature and dance. www.artsology.com

Benefits of Childhood Exposure

Enhanced Development, Academic Performance and Self-Confidence: Teachers have always known intuitively that the arts improve academic performance, behavior and attendance. And recent brain research confirms that the arts boost memory, intellectual curiosity and self-esteem. “When well-taught, the arts provide young people with authentic learning experiences that engage their minds, hearts and bodies and nurture the development of cognitive, social and personal competencies,” according to Arts Education Partnership’s published study, Champions of Change: The Impact of the Arts on Learning. Diverse, Highly Valued Skills That Contribute to Future Success: There’s often an assumption that a significant investment in the arts is a financial loss. Sure, it’s nice to have an artistic child, but having a successful, employable child has to be the real goal. Fortunately, it is possible to have all three, because exposure to the arts develops the skills that will be highly valued in the future. The evolving workplace rewards creative thinkers who can generate innovative and original ideas in a variety of media. “If young Americans are to succeed, they will need an education that develops imaginative and tough-minded thinking,” former U.S. Department of Education Secretary Richard Riley has said. “The arts powerfully nurture this ability over other areas of learning.” Better still, in a global world that is becoming more diverse, exposure to the arts helps children appreciate different points of view. As famed Broadway composer Stephan Schwartz puts it, “The arts are about increasing sympathy, increasing in people the ability to see things from other people’s point of view, and understanding that the world is not just from your own narrow perspectives, but from the perspective of people from other cultures.” Yet, while the arts opens a world of possibilities to a child, they also give him a greater sense of himself. While enjoying artistic experiences, children are stripped of pretenses and self-consciousness. As a result, they develop an awareness of, and appreciation for, their unique individuality.

Kidsite.com’s Approved Art Site List offers many fun, art-related activities broken down by category. www.kidsites.com/sites-edu/art.htm KinderArt® features artistic lessons that are popular with children of all abilities. Lessons are offered by medium or technique. https://kinderart.com/ art-lessons-by-medium/

Music Baby Mozart offers an opportunity for all ages to listen to tracks by different classical composers like Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Bach and Beethoven. www.babymozart.org/ classical-music/ Classics For Kids gives children the ability to listen to (and learn about) classical music. http://classicsforkids.com/music.html San Francisco Symphony’s Fun And Games With Music teaches kids about different types of music and instruments in a fun, gaming format. http://www.sfskids.org/listen/

continued on page 18

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Arts Smarts,

continued from page 17

Creative Arts Opportunities

Exposing a child to the arts need not be time-consuming, difficult or expensive. Most communities offer enhancement programs at recreation centers, libraries, museums or performing art centers at little or no cost. It is also very easy to reinforce concepts at home. Here are different types of creative arts that children enjoy, the benefits that each provides, and suggestions for how to incorporate them at home: Music: Listening to, singing and playing music has an undeniable effect on reasoning, language, math and social behavior. Exposure to music can actually form new, permanent connections in a child’s brain. Aimee Carter, who teaches music to children with developmental delay, says that all of her music students experience substantial developmental, emotional and social gains. Music director Tom Tietjen says that his music students enjoy greater self-awareness, cooperation skills and an appreciation of different cultures. Parents can easily play or make music at home, but they shouldn’t be afraid to take their children to the symphony. Many offer child-friendly matinees and

instrument “petting zoos” that expose a child to different instruments and sounds. It’s fun to watch a child’s reaction when he instinctively gravitates toward an instrument.

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Creative Drama: This can include dramatic role-play, story enactment or viewing live theater. Such exposure enhances a child’s imagination, builds his self-confidence and improves memory and reading skills. Drama students also learn to comfortably express their emotions in a group setting, a skill that becomes important as they approach adulthood. At home, encourage pretend play. Many kids instinctively act out their favorite stories. Consider a family talent show to allow even shy children to shine in the safety of their own home. Check out local theater offerings specifically for kids. The Visual Arts: Exposure to painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and architecture help develop a child’s fine motor and critical-thinking skills. Artist and teacher Virginia Larrea sees improvements in her students’ self-discipline, organizational skills and self-esteem. She says that art can make academic subjects (particularly geometry) more accessible. “Children learn that art is connected with all learning, so even boring subjects can be fun,” she says.

| browardfamilylife.com

It’s easy to encourage the visual arts at home because kids love to draw, sculpt and build. Allow kids to use an old phone to take photographs and then choose one for framing. Look for family nights at your local museum and ask your child to describe what he likes about his favorite pieces. Literary Arts: Exposure to or creating written works, whether poetry or prose, encourages self-exploration and intellectual curiosity. Despite geographic or socioeconomic barriers, literature can teach kids to appreciate the opinions and differences of others while also recognizing and honoring their own abilities and backgrounds. Literary reading is in a steep decline, with the most dramatic drop-off happening in the youngest age groups. Consider reading the classics as a family. Swiss Family Robinson, Through the Looking Glass, Treasure Island and Little Women are popular choices. Know that many publishers offer classic stories with age-appropriate text. Another option is poetry written specifically for children. Encourage your kids to write their own stories and poems. With all of the offerings and choices available, consider incorporating the arts into your family’s daily routine. Even if your child does not become the next Shakespeare, Mozart or Picasso, these small and easy efforts could help them to become smarter, well-rounded students and adults.

JM FAMILY ENTERPRISES

WHERE LEARNING COMES TO LIFE ON STAGE!

Tickets start at

7.20!

2019 l 2020

JUNIE B. JONES, THE MUSICAL October 7, 2019 Broward Center

ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S “WE ARE IN A PLAY!” November 14 & 15, 2019

THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD EARNS HER WHISTLE October 15, 2019 Broward Center

JOLLY OLD ST. NICHOLAS December 2 & 3, 2019

“THE HERO IN YOU” with ELLIS PAUL October 25, 2019

THE MAYHEM POETS November 8, 2019 Broward Center

Broward Center

ARTS BALLET THEATRE’S THE NUTCRACKER December 5 & 6, 2019

STEVE TRASH SCIENCE – LIVE January 15 & 16, 2020

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

SEWAM AMERICAN INDIAN DANCE February 24, 2020

BILL BLAGG: THE SCIENCE OF MAGIC March 2, 2020

BILL BLAGG: MAGIC IN MOTION March 3 & 4, 2020

Broward Center

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

Broward Center

PETE THE CAT March 11-13, 2020

TREASURE ISLAND April 6, 2020

BISCUIT THE LITTLE YELLOW PUPPY April 24, 2020

RAPUNZEL April 30 & May 1, 2020

Broward Center

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK February 7, 2020 Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

February 10, 2020

Broward Center

March 16, 2020 Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

Broward Center

For tickets, group discounts and full show descriptions, visit BrowardCenter.org or 954.462.0222

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

AF TER SCHOOL

ACTIVITIES& ENRICHMENT Guide

Outstanding Options in the Arts, Sports, Music and More

AFTER CARE

homework time, computer fun, physical fitness, game time, spending time with friends and more.

Boys and Girls Clubs Administrative Headquarters, Fort Lauderdale 954-537-1010 www.bgcbc.org Centers: • Carver Ranches, 954-967-8529 • Davie (DeGeorge Club), 954-236-2790 • Davie (Rick and Rita Case Club), 954-433-9000 • Deerfield Beach (Jim and Jam Moran Club), 954-725-5545 • Fort Lauderdale (NFL YET Center/Lester White Unit), 954-585-6351 • Fort Lauderdale (Nan Knox Club), 954-463-6392 • Fort Lauderdale (Reitman Club), 954-797-7097 • Hollywood (Marti Huizenga Club), 954-983-0626 • Lauderhill, 954-731-3552 • North Lauderdale (Levine/Slaughter Club), 954-726-3927 • North Lauderdale Leo Goodwin Teen Center, 954-722-5580 • Pompano Beach (Stephanis Club), 954-941-2697

Creative Child Learning Center • Coral Springs-Parkland, 954-796-0081 • Davie-Plantation, 954-452-3346 • Weston-Sunrise, 954-389-8245 www.creativechildlearningcenter.com The Camp Explorer after-school program for kindergarten and elementary school children offers a safe, stimulating environment with ontime transportation from school. Activities include

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

YMCA of South Florida Association Office 900 SE Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-334-9622 www.ymcasouthflorida.org Y Membership Family Centers: • Greater Hollywood YMCA, 3161 Taft St., 954-989-9622 • Hallandale Beach YMCA, 501 SE First Ave., 954-889-9622 • L.A. Lee YMCA, 408 NW 14 Terr., Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-2444 • Pembroke Pines YMCA, 501 SW 172 Ave., 954-727-9622 • Weston YMCA Family Center, 20201 Saddle Club Rd., 954-424-9622

ART CLASSES The Young At Art Institute 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org The Young At Art Institute is a 7,500-square-foot wing of Young At Art Museum featuring the finest studios for ceramics, digital art and film, darkroom photography, drawing, painting and printmaking, mixed media, and more. Adult studio classes include pottery, among others. Age-appropriate art-making experiences for children, teens and adults are interwoven with art appreciation, history, culture and critique.

| browardfamilylife.com

DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS Broadway Kids Studio 9042 W. State Rd. 84, Davie 954-693-7500 www.broadwaykidsstudio.com An award-winning, full service, performing arts studio that offers group classes and private lessons in singing, acting, dancing and musical instruments (piano, drums and guitar). After-school program includes up to 15 group classes a week and pick-up from over 30 local area schools.

Broward Center for the Performing Arts 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-414-6904 www.browardcenter.org/programs Kids can tap into their creative side with singing, dancing and acting classes in a state-of-the-art facility taught by a team of arts instructors. Classes are centered around performing arts and are open to any age or level.

Florida Children’s Theatre 2542B E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-763-6882 www.flct.org FLCT provides theatre classes, shows, and community outreach programs for ages 4-18.

Miramar Cultural Center 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar 954-602-4500 www.miramarculturalcenter.org

Programs also available at our new STEM Creation Center • Afterschool Enrichment • Day Camps • Homeschool Classes • Kids Day Out • Kids Night Out • Mommy & Me •Trial Classes

For dates, times and ages visit our website!

•Birthday Parties & Special Events In School STEM Field Trips STEAM Electives K-12 954-816-3346•www.BrightAndSmart.com

Ballet | Tap | Art | Musical Theater Belly Dance | Contemporary | Hip Hop and More! A variety of hands-on arts enrichment programs and activities for children and adults are available including workshops, master classes, demonstrations, behind-the-scenes tours and more. Additional camp programs for children ages 7-14 are designed to build confidence while kids develop artistic skills through teamwork, communication, reading/comprehension, self-discipline and creativity.

Yello! 2495 E. Commerical Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-880-3005 www.yellofl.com Experience the joy of dance with classes for toddlers, kids, teens and adults that include ballet, jazz, hip-hop, belly dance, ballroom, Break’N, lyrical and more. Yello’s 6,500 square feet of space features modern dance studios, an educational lounge, and an organic plant based café.

ENRICHMENT Bright & Smart

101 E. Commercial Blvd., Oakland Park 954-816-3346 www.brightandsmart.com Bright & Smart recently opened a new STEAM Creation Center to encourage the development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math skills for people of all ages. The curriculum provides children ages 5 and up with hands-on activities that navigate the passageways of robotics, coding and engineering. Classes, enrichment programs and camps are available.

Chess for Kids

954-650-2562 www.chessforkids.us This program is designed to develop intellect, social skills, focus, and improve overall academic performance through the game of chess. Players use problem-solving skills, think independently and foresee problems and plan solutions through the game. The program is offered in select private and public schools and city community centers in the tri-county area. After school and chess in the classroom programs are available.

Currently enrolling for the 2019/2020 Dance Year. Now offering home-school friendly classes!

FITNESS & SPORTS Barb Koster’s Riding Academy 14401 W. Palomino Dr., Southwest Ranches 754-234-5981 www.barbkostersridingacademy.com Offers group lessons after school throughout the week, a school day off program and a Saturday riding program. Kids learn grooming, tacking and riding.

Broward County Parks & Recreation 954-357-8100 www.broward.org/parks Broward County Parks’ countywide network of regional parks, nature centers, neighborhood parks, and natural areas offers recreational opportunities for all ages. Facilities include water parks, campgrounds, skate parks, a target range, a variety of sports

2495 East Commercial Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308 p. 954.491.1591 yellofl.com

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

AFTER SCHOOL LESSON PROGRAM LOTS OF RIDING & FUN!

facilities, Brian Piccolo Park velodrome, and an educational farm with stables. Programming includes classes, nature activities, athletic leagues, and one-time special events. Hours and fees vary by location.

SpareZ 5325 S. University Dr., Davie 954-434-9663 www.sparezbowling.com Kids can spend some free time after school learning to bowl from a certified bowling coach. Program includes a custom bowling ball, bag, snack and drink. Additional open play programs on Monday and Friday afternoons are designed specifically for kids.

Tue-Fri 3:00-4:00pm 4:00-5:00pm 5:00-6:00pm Sat 9am-3pm

See After Care for locations

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTERS

PARKS & RECREATION

Adolph & Rose Levis JCC 9801 Donna Klein Blvd., Boca Raton 561-852-3200 www.levisjcc.org

David Posnack JCC 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-434-0499 www.dpjcc.org Variety of programs, services, and amenities aimed to enhance a sense of community, culture, education, enrichment, fitness and more.

754-234-5981

www.barbkostersridingacademy.com

Soref JCC 954-792-6700 www.sorefjcc.org • Perlman Family Campus, 6501 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation • Alvin S. Gross Activity Center, 748 Riverside Dr., Coral Springs • Heron Lakes Family Center, 5601 Coral Ridge Dr., Coral Springs

LANGUAGE CLASSES

561-393-7810 www.ci.boca-raton.fl.us

Coconut Creek 954-545-6670 www.coconutcreek.net

Cooper City 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

Coral Springs 954-345-2200 www.coralsprings.org

Dania Beach 954-924-6800 www.ci.dania-beach.fl.us

Davie 954-797-1146 www.davie-fl.gov

Deerfield Beach 954-480-4433 www.deerfield-beach.com

Fort Lauderdale 954-828-PARK www.fortlauderdale.gov

Hallandale Beach 954-457-1452 www.hallandalebeachfl.gov

Hollywood 954-921-3404 www.hollywoodfl.org

4200 N. 65 Ave., Davie 954-288-7599 www.germanschoolfl.com Daily full-immersion preschool program for children 1-5 years/VPK. German language arts classes for native speakers and German as a Foreign Language classes for all ages.

Lauderdale Lakes

MUSIC

Margate

2300 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-563-2697 www.singingsons.org Award-winning boychoir whose mission is to foster the musical knowledge, education and vocal training of its members through performances and community events. Ages 8 and older.

Florida Youth Orchestra 1708 N. 40 Ave., Hollywood 954-962-5666 www.floridayouthorchestra.org Classical music education for ages 5-18, with orchestras and ensembles that perform for thousands each year.

The Girl Choir of South Florida 3347 NW 55 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-533-9227 www.girlchoir.org B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Boca Raton

German-American School of Fort Lauderdale

Florida Singing Sons Boychoir

Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County 2285 Potomac Rd., Boca Raton 561-281-8600 www.yopbc.org Nearly 200 musicians, ages 6-22, participate in YOPBC’s four orchestras: Training, String, Symphony, and Philharmonic – and numerous chamber ensembles. Rehearsals are held on Sunday afternoons at Palm Beach Atlantic University from August to May each season. Musicians perform throughout Palm Beach County.

YMCA of South Florida

14401 W. Palomino Dr. Southwest Ranches

Choral music education and performance opportunities for girls and young women, ages 6-18. Members learn to read music, perform with confidence, sing in top venues, participate in overnight camps and tours, and more.

| browardfamilylife.com

954-535-2785 www.lauderdalelakes.org

Lauderhill 954-730-3080 www.lauderhill-fl.gov

Lighthouse Point 954-784-3439 www.lighthousepoint.com 954-972-6458 www.margatefl.com

Miramar 954-602-4357 www.miramarfl.gov

North Lauderdale 954-724-7061 www.nlauderdale.org

Oakland Park 954-630-4500 www.oaklandparkfl.gov

Parkland 954-757-4105 www.cityofparkland.org

Pembroke Pines 954-392-2130 www.ppines.com

Plantation 954-452-2510 www.plantation.org

Pompano Beach 954-786-4111 www.pompanobeachfl.gov

Sunrise 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Tamarac 954-597-3634 www.tamarac.org

Weston 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

Wilton Manors 954-390-2130 www.wiltonmanors.com

PRESCHOOL ACTIVITIES NSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mailman Segal Center for Human Development 7600 SW 36 St., Davie 954-262-6918 https://msc.nova.edu/index.html NSU offers a number of programs for families and children to learn, play and grow together. Kids can dig in with Ooey Gooey Messy Fun, whip up a healthy dish with Master Chefs, or run, jump and play with Sports for Tots.

SCOUTING Boy Scouts 954-584-4200 www.sfcbsa.org Boy Scouts has different age groups, starting with Cub Scouts for kindergarten-fifth grade. Students may participate through high school and earn the coveted Eagle Award. Participants learn practical skills and get outdoor experiences as they are guided to make ethical choices.

Girl Scouts 561-427-0177 www.gssef.org Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida serves girls ages 5-17 in six counties, including Broward. The organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to build strong, smart and self-reliant young women who are confident of their place in the world.

SPECIAL NEEDS Best Buddies 954-449-6522 www.bestbuddies.org/florida Pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with middle and high school students.

Broward County Parks & Recreation Special Populations Section 954-357-8170 or 954-537-2844 (TTY) www.broward.org

Equine-Assisted Therapies 954-974-2007 www.equineatsf.org Therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted activities.

Lighthouse of Broward County 954-463-4217 www.lhob.org Programs for the visually impaired.

Special Olympics www.specialolympicsflorida.org/broward Oversees training and competition for developmentally disabled children 8 years and up.

VOLUNTEERING HandsOn Broward

954-233-1300 www.handsonbroward.org Volunteer opportunities for families, teens and adults.

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

an r o f d l i ur ch o y d n Se URE in

Grades K-8

ADVENT ER-SCHOOLram AFT prog at the David Posnack JCC

Supervised Homework Room, Snacks Arts & Crafts, Computer Lab, Sports, Friends & Fun

Transportation available from area schools REGISTER AT DPJCC.ORG/AFTERSCHOOL On the Nina & Louis Silverman Campus 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie, FL 33328 dpjcc.org | 954-434-0499

Facilitated by Jo Marie Payton • Full Immersion German Preschool Program Ages 1-5 • After Care • Free VPK program • German Saturday School • German as a foreign language classes for children and adults • Teaching Principles of “Learning With Your Head, Heart and Hand (Hands on Activities; music, art, storytime, puppet shows and outdoor activities)

Miramar Cultural Center is thrilled to facilitate an exciting theatre arts program for 8th through 12th graders who desire a deeper understanding for the theatrical arts. Facilitated by Jo Marie Payton (TV Personality, Actress, Singer and Director. Students will engage in hands-on-participatory activities involved in putting together a full production. For more information on the Education programs, contact the Cultural Affairs Department at the Miramar Cultural Center at

954-391-9847 • 954-288-7599

germanschoolfl@aol.com www.germanschoolfl.com 4200 N. 65th Ave., Davie 33024

954-602-4519

Email: Education@MiramarCulturalCenter.org

where community and culture converge!™

Lernen mit Kopf, Herz und Hand September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Real life. Real funny.

THE OFF-BROADWAY HIT COMEDY

JANUARY 29 OCTOBER 6

OCTOBER 5

Au-Rene Theater

Amaturo Theater

WINNER OF FOUR 2018 CARBONELL AWARDS INCLUDING BEST MUSICAL Presents

S L O W B U R N T H E AT R E C O . 2 0 1 9 / 2 0 2 0 I 1 0 t h A N N I V E R S A R Y S E A S O N

OCTOBER 25–NOVEMBER 10, 2019

DECEMBER 13–29, 2019

MARCH 20–APRIL 5, 2020

JANUARY 31–FEBRUARY 16, 2020

JUNE 5–21, 2020

All performances are in the Amaturo Theater

SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! SUBSCRIBE TO 4 OR MORE SHOWS AND SAVE UP TO 20% Subscription Hotline: 954.468.3280

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office

Group Sales

954.660.6307

Where the Stories are the Stars! RESERVE THE BEST AVAILABLE SEATS AT THE LOWEST PRICE WHEN YOU SUBSCRIBE!

Presented by

Junie B. Jones, The Musical Saturday, October 5, 2019

Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are In A Play” Sunday, December 1, 2019

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus Saturday, January 25, 2020

Rapunzel Saturday, May 2, 2020 All performances are at 11am and 1pm

Tickets include complimentary pre-show activities and a sweet treat provided by Hoffman’s Chocolates!

SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCES These performances are intended to create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the autism spectrum as well as individuals with other sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities. Productions by

OCTOBER 6 at 11:00 AM

NOVEMBER 2 at 2:00 PM

Tickets at BrowardCenter.org/Sensory-Friendly The Broward Center’s sensory-friendly programming is made possible through the generous support of The Batchelor Foundation, The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation, Florida Blue Foundation and The Taft Foundation.

Special thanks to Theatre Development Fund’s Autism Theatre Initiative for serving as an advisor, www.tdf.org/autism.

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office

Group Sales

954.660.6307

BrowardCenter

FAMILY health

Activity Overload? MASTERING THE BALANCING ACT OF YOUR KIDS’ BUSY LIVES BY RACHAEL MOSHMAN

ack to school means a return to extracurricular activities for many children. Some children are out of the house nearly every night of the week. I have worked with children and families as a resource coordinator and mentor for many years. When parents come to me with academic or behavioral concerns regarding their children, I quickly ask what they are involved in after school. If the list is long, my advice is usually to scale back and see if things turn around. Most schools and communities have an abundance of choices for children to be involved in after school. Football, cheerleading, dance, gymnastics, lacrosse, horseback riding, art, drama, Scouting, ecology clubs and language lessons are just a few of the options available to children in my home town. My daughter brings home a flier for a new activity every day. We all want our children to be well-rounded and successful and to enjoy their brief time as school children. Enrolling them in enrichment activities seems harmless — and it usually is. However, moderation is key. Children need time to focus on their homework, socialize with friends informally, spend time with family and just relax. So how do you know if your child is doing too much? Here are signs that it might be time to cut back on after-school activities. YOU SEE A CHANGE IN YOUR CHILD’S BEHAVIOR OR EMOTIONS. Overwhelmed children often show they are stressed through their behavior. Is your usually compliant child suddenly defiant? Does your formerly happy-go-lucky child now burst into tears for seemingly no reason? Take a week off from activities and spend quiet evenings at home instead. Does the situation improve? If so, too many activities are probably the culprit.

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

THEY DON’T SEEM TO BE ENJOYING THE ACTIVITY. One 8-year-old girl was rude and argumentative on the days she had dance lessons. Her mom realized that she didn’t enjoy the twice-weekly, two-hour lessons and that she didn’t know how to tell her. The girl was relieved when her mother gave her permission to stop.

| browardfamilylife.com

YOUR CHILD SEEMS EXHAUSTED. Signs that their activities are getting in the way of their rest include: • Falling asleep at mealtime • Difficulty waking up in the morning • Napping on the way to activities • Nodding off in class • General sluggishness

THEIR GRADES DROP. I always advise parents to take a look at what has changed whenever grades plummet. An increase in after-school activities is a frequent contributor. Sometimes a child simply needs time to figure out how to balance their new schedule. But don’t give them so much time that they get into a hole they can’t dig out of. THEY ARE VISIBLY WORRIED. One boy decided to play soccer in addition to participating in the marching band when he entered high school. He maintained his honor-roll status, but he was always panicked about having enough time to study and do homework. The next school year, his mom told him he could do either band or soccer but not both. He opted for band and was much more relaxed. IT BEGINS TO IMPACT THE REST OF THE FAMILY. Are you exhausted and overwhelmed? Mom and Dad often do a lot of running around to various practices, meetings and activities during the school year, especially when they have more than one child. If you find yourself cranky and bitter that you never have time to accomplish tasks or spend quality time with your kids, reevaluate your family’s activities. Everyone needs to be comfortable with the schedule, including you. So what do you do if you determine your child is doing too much? Sit down with your child and prioritize their activities. I had to do this with my daughter. She was involved in gymnastics, Girl Scouts and guitar lessons. We were out of the house four evenings a week and Saturday morning. It was too much. I told her something had to go. She was reluctant at first, but after a lengthy discussion she admitted that she didn’t really enjoy guitar lessons and found the social aspects of Girl Scouts to be overwhelming. She asked if she could drop both activities and add a second session of gymnastics instead. Now she has gymnastics one evening a week and on Saturday mornings. This schedule is much more relaxing and enjoyable for both of us. Rachael Moshman is a freelance writer, educator and family advocate. She loves watching her daughter twist and turn through the air in gymnastics lessons.

Free Festival Admission

Town of Davie

Fall Harvest Festival & Taste of Davie

September 28, 2019 P 4:00-8:00pm OLive performances P Petting Farm OHayride O Kids Activities P FFood Tastings (Additional Fees)F Music by Sekond Nature Bergeron Rodeo Grounds R 4201 Rodeo Way www.davie-fl.gov/specialevents R (954) 7971181

THE REAL THEADVENTURE REAL TROPICAL

TROPICAL ADVENTURE 11 Daily Shows & Talks I Interactive Fountain I Shady Paths Reserve your up-close animal experience at palmbeachzoo.org

11 Daily Shows & Talks | Interactive Fountain | Shady Paths 1301 Summit Palm Beach, FL 33405 I (561) 547-WILD Book Blvd., YourWest Up-Close Animal Experience Now(9453) Open Daily 9am-5pm, I-95 Exit 68, Free Parking

1301 Summit Boulevard West Palm Beach, FL 33405 (561) 547-WILD (9453) Please visit www.palmbeachzoo.org

Open Daily, I-95 Exit 68, Free Parking

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

MOM matters

Romancing the Babysitter

SEARCHING FOR THE ONE CAN BE A LOT LIKE DATING BY PAM MOORE

or many parents, the prospect of leaving the children with a babysitter is overwhelming. Not to worry — you already have experience. Finding a sitter is a lot like dating, which you’ve no doubt done before. Though you may have been driving a car that wasn’t covered in Goldfish crumbs the last time you were on the prowl, finding a sitter and dating have more in common than you may think. The types of sitters you meet are actually just like the kinds of people you date: THE ONE YOU HOPE LOOKS LIKE HER PICTURE. It’s the 21st century, so if finding a sitter online makes you uneasy, remember: Google is your friend. Study her Facebook timeline, troll her Instagram feed and order a background check. Even if she’s perfect on paper, an IRL meeting

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

could be a different story. Maybe she wears excessive cheap perfume or swipes through Tinder when she thinks you’re not looking. So, keep it light the first time she comes and grab a drink. Save that fancy dinner for when you’re more comfortable with her. And don’t be afraid to use a nanny cam, especially if you met on Craigslist. THE OLDER WOMAN. She’s raised her own kids. Maybe she even has grandkids. She has tricks that make your head spin. Her ability to soothe even the most difficult child with a loving touch and sweet whispers will blow your mind. She will be focused on your kids, not sexting or Instagramming #OOTD pics while she’s on the clock. Unfortunately, her experience and maturity could come at a high price. You may have to remind her that just because she lost her virginity the same

| browardfamilylife.com

year you graduated preschool does not make her an expert on everything. THE HEARTBREAKER. You hit it off immediately. You spend 20 minutes crafting the perfect text, then wait 24 hours to hit send. When she comes over, you do your best to appear breezy. You explain you’re not looking for anything serious, just occasional dinners. You show her your house. You ask her questions about herself. She seems interested. When you try to schedule, she says she doesn’t see it working. Was it something you said? Was it the track marks in your otherwise pristine toilet bowl? Were your kids acting like… kids? After you’ve had a few drinks, your husband keeps you from texting her, “WHY?” THE VIRGIN. She’s never babysat, but she has younger siblings. She’s eager and genuine, so you give her a chance.

You come home to chaos. Dirty dishes are piled high. Toys litter the floor. The baby is on the changing table. Unattended. You wonder if this girl has ever met a baby, let alone cared for one. When you change the baby’s diaper, you find traces of leftover poop in every crease. This girl is just as sloppy as she is clueless. You gave her a shot, now she can practice on someone else’s kid. THE ONE WHO GOT AWAY. You meet at the gym. Your heart leaps if she’s working Kids Korner. She has an instant connection with your kids. Soon, she’s at your house constantly. She spends entire days there while you’re working, returning after the kids’ bedtime so you can go to dinner. You brag about her to your friends. Then she says she has to be free, to travel. She doesn’t know if she’ll return. You wish her well while holding back tears. Sometimes you Facebook stalk her. She’s riding an elephant in South Africa, partying with hot Australians in Southeast Asia. You’ll lose your mind if you ever see her with another family. You hope she’s happy, but God, sometimes you miss her. THE ONE. At the bar, she makes faces at your baby between sips of her margarita. The chemistry is unmistakable. When the check comes, your husband whispers, “Should we ask if she babysits?” For once, he has read your mind. She always texts back immediately. She plans fun activities, like walks to the park and the library. She makes hanging out at home fun, arriving with hand-picked library books and a potato (for making stamp art, of course). Her devotion is pure; she rocks your sick child to sleep and volunteers to take her to the park when your second baby is born. She is the first non-family member to watch your kids overnight. You are convinced that whoever says you can’t meet quality people at bars has no idea what they’re talking about. As my mom said, you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince. I came home to a soaking wet baby in a backward diaper countless times before I found The One. You just have to keep putting yourself out there and trust that the right sitter is out there somewhere, waiting for you, too. Pam Moore is a freelance writer, run coach and occupational therapist who helps women to become their best selves. Having found her match, she is no longer swiping her way through the sitter sites. September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

FAMILY man

Nutrition Mission

A CHEF’S RECIPE FOR GETTING KIDS OUT THE DOOR WELL-FED BY PERRY PERKINS

s the parent that works from home, getting our daughter ready for school and providing breakfasts, lunches and transportation falls to me. Before Gracie hit school age, I remember thinking that parents who complained incessantly about their trials and tribulations over just getting their kids out the door each morning were, apparently, a bunch of whiners. Then my daughter started school… and, apparently, I’m a whiner. By the time she was up, dressed, fed and in the car that first week, it would not be uncharitable to say that my kitchen looked like a dozen drunken monkeys had a food fight. I’ve been a professional chef most of my life. My entire day revolves around my ability to plan and organize my kitchen, so everything is done the right way, at the right time, every time. That first week? Not so much. The alarm would go off at 6am and I’d hop out of bed thinking: “OK, plenty of time! I’ll whip up some scrambled eggs with veggies, maybe a little bacon, toast some bread, pour some orange juice…”

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

By 7:15 I’d be having a psychotic episode, flinging cold minibagels with what would turn out to be jalapeno pepper jelly in my daughter’s general direction, trying to stem the waterfall of orange-juice cascading from the table, and screaming through a haze of bacon smoke: “For the last time… YES, you have to wear shoes! Now hurry up and meet me in the car!” Note to newbies: Never, ever, agree to “meet them in the car.” Your vehicle’s tags will expire long before they finally wander out the door like tiny disheveled zombies and shamble off into the morning on little bare feet. Getting kids up, achieving a minimal level of personal hygiene and getting them fed is hard. And getting yourself ready for work at the same time… puh-lease! It’s like the polar explorer Shackleton preparing a mission to Antarctica: I’m not going to lie to you, men… you will suffer, at times you will hate me, some will surely die… and we may have to eat the dogs before we’re done. But, there are some simple shortcuts I’ve learned since that first week to make it, if not easy, at least less likely to find

yourself Googling orphanages while eating cake frosting directly from the can. We have a saying in the restaurant industry — the 6 Ps: “Prior planning prevents (bleep)-poor performance.” (Sorry, most sayings from the kitchen have to be censored.) So, here’s my 4-step plan to help maintain your sanity, and your children’s survival. STEP ONE: COOK IN BULK Frittatas are my go-to breakfast. Eggs, milk, cheese and pretty much anything else you have hangin’ out in the fridge. • Every Sunday night (or whichever night works best for you), crack a half-dozen eggs per kid, whisk in a little milk, a little shredded cheese, a bit of salt and pepper, any veggies that won’t lead to armed rebellion, and maybe a little leftover chopped deli meat. • Pour it into a buttered baking dish and bake at 350 degrees, until it stops jiggling (30-45 minutes). Let it cool to room temp (important), then freeze half and put the other half in the fridge. • In the morning, whack a chunk off for each kid, nuke it for a minute, and serve with a slice of toast. Halfway through the week, thaw the other half, and repeat. To keep it interesting, make simple ingredient modifications each week (ham and swiss, turkey and cheddar, kielbasa and provolone, etc.) Every other morning, I alternate with something even simpler, like peanut-butter toast, crock-pot oatmeal, or homemade egg, ham and cheese “McMuffins.” STEP TWO: PACK LUNCHES THE NIGHT BEFORE! Or better yet, make THEM pack lunches the night before. Who are they, Bill Gates? Why do they rate a personal chef? Speaking of which…

STEP THREE: MY MISSION IN LIFE TEACH YOUR KIDS TO COOK! I retired from restaurants 10 years ago, and now I run a nonprofit teaching at-risk and under-served kids basic shopping and simple, healthy cooking. Trust me, they can do it, and unless you want to blow that college tuition on brains powered by cold pizza and ramen, you better teach them early. Make it fun, keep it simple, and praise everything. You might end up pleasantly surprised with a personal chef of your own. STEP FOUR: PROTEIN FIRST! First thing in the morning, simple carbs and sugar is like feeding a movie Gremlin after midnight. Bad idea. Terrible idea. People get hurt. Chef’s Rant: It’s my personal belief that cold cereal is, second only to the atomic bomb, the worst invention in human history. Processed grains are what we feed livestock to fatten them up as quickly as possible. You ever see a cow trying to take the SATs? Whole grains, protein and fresh fruit jump start the brain, sharpen focus and reduce hyperactivity. In other words, they keep parents sane. So, remember your 4 Ps, “Prior preparations avoid poor performance,” so you don’t end up like me that first week — a trembling, broken shell of a parent, sitting in a car eating half a cold bagel found in the glove box and thinking, “There’s something wrong with this jelly....” Perry P. Perkins is a third-generation chef, culinary instructor and award-winning freelance writer. He’s also Gracie’s chef, butler and chauffeur.

HALLOWEEN

BOO BASH THURSDAY, OCT 31 • 5PM TO 7PM • COURTYARD SPOOKY MAGIC SHOW STARTING AT 6PM FUN / CANDY / GAMES / MUSIC / ARTS & CRAFTS

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter to discover great stores, delicious restaurants, and special events!

www.pompanociticentre.com

SW corner of Federal Hwy and Copans Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Free

Event! September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

HOME tech

Organized Medicine NEW TOOLS TO HELP KEEP YOUR FAMILY’S MEDICAL RECORDS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS BY MALIA JACOBSON

ot long ago, patients rarely got a peek at their personal health records, thick files tucked in medical offices’ weighty file cabinets. Today patients can access personal health information in minutes, thanks to online “patient portals” offered by a growing number of hospitals and clinics. But what if you see a few different doctors or specialists at different clinics or hospitals? What if you need to track health records for a family, manage multiple chronic conditions, or receive care from natural or holistic providers outside of the hospital system? While patient portals are common, tools to track health records across multiple hospitals, devices and family members aren’t. That’s changing, though. Here are tools that can track and store electronic health records for you and your family members without logging into dozens of patient portals or crowding your phone with apps. Peace of mind with less paperwork — sign me up STAT. FOR PERSONAL HEALTH RECORDS: Apple Health Records, free. Apple launched Health Records last year, giving users the ability to track their health records across multiple hospital systems. Health Records uses healthcare-industry tech to communicate securely with the health system’s or clinic’s records through a direct, encrypted connection. To use Health Records on your iPhone or iPad, select Health Records in the Health Data tab of the Health app. In South Florida, dozens of hospitals and clinics participate, including Memorial Healthcare System, Cleveland Clinic, Jackson Health System and Baptist Health South Florida. FOR FAMILY HEALTH RECORDS OR MULTIPLE CHRONIC CONDITIONS: CapzulePHR (www.capzule.com), free. Need to track records for multiple health conditions or a houseful of people? With the capacity to store records for up to six family members, CapzulePHR allows users to share health data between devices, communicate with healthcare providers, keep track of appointments and medications, and create QR codes for emergency first responders. Spreadsheet devotees can import files from other devices to create charts and graphs, which can be shared with healthcare providers. And cloud backups, including Google Drive and Dropbox integration, add a layer of reassurance. FOR NEW OR EXPECTANT MOMS: Mahmee (www.mahmee.com), subscription-based. Between regular prenatal visits, specialist appointments, and support from labor and birth pros, health records pile up during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Millions of new moms have health records scattered across multiple providers, putting them at risk of dangerous healthcare gaps during a vulnerable life stage, says Melissa Hanna, CEO and co-founder of Mahmee. “We give you a dashboard that links mom and baby’s health records, so health data isn’t fragmented,” she says. “This makes it

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

easier to track your entire care experience.” Users also have access to a private messaging hotline and online support groups led by experts. FOR FAMILIES WITH HEALTH DATA FROM LOTS OF SOURCES: Coral Health Records, free at the Apple App Store or Google Play. Families who move frequently may have a trail of medical records spanning the country. Coral Health Records allows users to compile health data from nearly 600 health systems in the United States and combines electronic health records from patient portals such as MyQuest, MyChart, healow, FollowMyHealth, and HealtheLife. HIPPA-compliant technology allows users to store data securely and share records with healthcare providers as needed. And parents and guardians can easily track health records, prescriptions, immunization records, and allergy information for the children in their care. FOR THOSE CARING FOR A SPOUSE, AGING PARENT, AND CHILDREN: My Medical (www.mymedicalapp.com), $4.99. Tracking health records for large families or multiple generations takes a robust database, calendar capabilities and lots of built-in reminders. My Medical allows caregivers to track health records for multiple generations of family members, store immunization records, and compile complex health data for children with special health needs. Helpfully, the app lets users store notes and snapshots to help keep everything straight — so if you need to snap a photo of your child’s medication label, take notes at an appointment, or save the contact information for your dad’s cardiologist in one spot, you’re covered. Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and family journalist.

Make Your September Scientastic at MODS! As part of Broward Attractions & Museums Month (BAMM)

September 1 – 30, discover how MODS connects children (and adults) of all ages to inspiring science. Receive One Child Admission Free with Purchase of One Adult Admission.

Activate In-Person at MODS with Code BAMM2019!

MODS joins 22 participating museums and attractions in Broward County as part of the September BAMM promotion.

401 SW Second Street • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 • (954) 713-0930

BB&T Center SEPT 12 – 15 AmericanAirlines Arena SEPT 19 – 22 DisneyOnIce.com September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

The Nurtury Montessori at Riverland • Montessori Certified Infant/Toddler and Primary Teachers • Infant program (6 wks old – 18 mos. old) • Toddler program (18 mos old – 3 yrs old) • Primary Program (3 yrs to 6 yrs old) • Spanish Lessons & Music Movement • Infant Massage & Baby Sign Language

For oPEN ENroLLMENT CALL

954-587-2285

www.thenurtury-montessori.com info@thenurtury-montessori.com

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

SPECIAL SECTION

A TRULY grand Fun, meaningful ways to make Grandparents Day memorable

randparents Day isn’t the kind of holiday that comes with a time-honored tradition like Christmas or Thanksgiving, so it’s up to grandparents and their grandchildren to create their own traditions. For most grandparents, cards and gifts are welcome, but more importantly is time spent with their grandchildren. That time spent together is the tradition that matters most. This year, Grandparents Day is September 8, and a great way to spend it together is to go someplace fun as a family. For example, Miami Seaquarium is inviting grandparents and their families to spend the day or the whole weekend at the world-famous attraction — and making it very attractive to do so. On Sept. 7-8, grandparents who bring a Grandparents Day card to the park for its aquatic grandmothers — Panama the dolphin and Sarah the sea lion — will receive one free admission with one paid general admission.

HOLIDAY “We’re honoring all grandparents with free admission to the park this weekend celebrating Grandparent’s Day, as a ‘thank you’ for all the guidance and wisdom they have to offer their families,” said Eric Eimstad, general manager. “We hope this special offer will encourage families to have a family day at the park, celebrating the grandparents in their lives.” If you’re a grandparent who’s a sports fan, taking in a ballgame with your grandkids would be another special way to enjoy the day. Sept. 8 happens to be Family Fun Day at Marlins Park, and grandparents can have the added thrill of watching their grandkids run the bases on the field after the game. Before the Miami Marlins host the Kansas City Royals at 1:10 p.m., there are also family activities on the West Plaza with team swag for the kids. If football is more your thing, you can take in the Miami Dolphins season-opening game vs. the Baltimore Ravens on the same day at 1 p.m at Hard Rock Stadium. FUN KEEPSAKE ACTIVITIES Of course, grandparents don’t have to go any place special to have a special day. A few of the interesting, fun activities to do with the grandkids right at home include: Me and My Gran Hand-in-Hand Activity: Grandparent and young grandchild trace around their hands together. Use markers or paints to decorate the handprints, which can be a touching keepsake for both. Get started here: www.aboutfamilycrafts.com/handprint-grandparents-day-gift/ A Grandparent-Grandchild Interview: Grandparents love to tell stories and children love to ask questions. In this activity, the grandkids get to ask away. There are 37 questions to get them started at: www.jkhnelson.com/2013/life/37-questions-grandparents-parents/ A Yummy Treat: Grandparents and their grandkids can spend part of the day together in the kitchen cooking a snack, dessert or even a meal. Before eating it, though, take a selfie of the chefs with their dish and post it on Instagram or Facebook. SOMETHING GRAND TOGETHER Another way to make the holiday meaningful is for grandparents and the grandkids to do something meaningful together. A good place to start is Generations United, an organization that for seven years on Grandparents Day has encouraged all generations to “Do Something Grand.” The campaign’s theme this year is “Dig In! Bringing Generations to the Table.” Resources, ideas and information about health and nutrition are shared on its website, https://grandparentsday.org/ Also on the site is a Take Action Guide, which details various ways grandparents can commit to doing something grand together with the young people in their life during the week leading up to Grandparents Day. Ideas range from helping a young adult register to vote to volunteering together at a community kitchen, a care facility or an animal shelter. One of the guide’s most engaging ideas is for grandparents and kids to work together to throw a baby shower for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Invite friends and family for a fun time that not only brings generations together but also helps caregivers with gifts of much-needed items like diapers, formula and clothing.

Grandparents Day 18 years in the making Though President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation making Grandparents Day a national holiday in 1978, it was actually a 9-year-old boy who tried to get the job done almost 10 years earlier. In 1969, Russell Capper sent a letter to President Richard Nixon suggesting a day be set aside as Grandparents Day (this year celebrated on Sept. 8). The president’s secretary, Rose Mary Woods, of Watergate fame, replied to the boy and explained that the president ordinarily makes such proclamations following a Congressional resolution. Despite Russell’s laudable letter, a couple of much older folks are credited with launching a national observance of the role grandparents play in our society. Inspired by the efforts of Jacob Reingold, an executive of the Hebrew Home at Riverdale, the first day specifically honoring grandparents was held at the New York nursing home in 1961. Two years later, it became an official holiday in the Bronx — 16 years before becoming a national holiday. The Congressional Record in 1987 affirmed Reingold’s fundamental efforts in establishing Grandparents Day. In 1970, a year after Russell sent his letter to President Nixon, Marian McQuade began petitioning the state of West Virginia for an official day of observance. A member of the state Commission on Aging, she wanted to raise awareness for elderly nursing home residents, who she feared were missing out on important family bonding — and “to alleviate some loneliness,” she explained. Three years later, West Virginia’s governor became the first to proclaim Grandparents Day a state holiday. Eight years after she began her statewide campaign, McQuade received a call from the White House informing her that President Jimmy Carter had signed a bill designating the Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day, beginning in 1979. Carter urged “each citizen to pause and to reflect on the influence his grandparents have had in shaping his own destiny.” Generally recognized as the holiday’s founder, McQuade was honored in 1989 when the U.S. Postal Service issued a 10th anniversary commemorative envelope bearing her likeness. She died in 2008 at 91 — her legacy amplified by 43 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

REMEMBER when

The Age of Options YOU’VE GOT A LOT OF CHOICES TO MAKE — SO CHOOSE ALREADY! BY GREG CARANNANTE Remember when there were only three TV networks? For most of my younger life, if I wanted to watch television, I had the meager choice of CBS, NBC or ABC, which until the early 1990s were America’s only commercial TV networks. For much of the viewing public back then, the really, really big decision was The Ed Sullivan Show vs. Bonanza. That ’60s Sunday night squareoff is a good starting point for wrapping our heads around the brain-frazzling increase in the number of viewing options between then and now. Unlike typical viewers from 60 years ago, today’s couch potato can surf over 225 cable channels — without having to leave an easy chair to change the station or adjust the rabbit-ears antenna — or scroll through what seems like an endless inventory of Netflix shows and movies. How many evenings have we spent about as much time flippng for something to watch as we could have spent watching it if we’d

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

only been able to decide what to watch to begin with? (C’mon, I can’t be the only one.) The limited video options of my youth are absolutely unimaginable to many of today’s young people, as are human existence before the Internet, YouTube and so many other taken-for-granted perks of quotidian, contemporary life. When I recently attempted to impart to my teenage son some appreciation of the technological prosperity that he enjoys, he paused his incessant video-gobbling for one nanosecond, lifted his eyes from his phone and gave me that look that could only mean “… and so?” And so… today’s eye-boggling abundance of viewing options is just one example of the — let’s just say it — ridiculous volume of choices that complicate every sphere of our lives. Whether buying a computer or a mattress, making a music selection continued on page 42

continued from page 40

or a life-changing medical decision, or swiping left or right on an online dating site, we are compelled to choose, choose, choose — and hurry up about it! You want to buy a car? You may have over 1,700 models to choose from. Just got to upgrade that smartphone? You can pick from over 24,000 different devices — and those are only the Android models. Searching for a career-change? One website lists 12,000 job titles and descriptions. Need health insurance? There are 40 companies — and selecting the right plan could be the most confounding of all consumer choices. (If you’ve survived the ordeal of applying for Medicare, you know what I mean.) And then there’s the supermarket, perhaps the one place that most of us frequent most consistently. As late as the 1990s, there were about 7,000 items in a grocery store, according to Michael Ruhlman, author of Grocery: The Buying and Selling of Food in America. Today that number has skyrocketed. At Publix, for example, the average number of products is about 50,000, says Nicole Krauss, a company media manager. On a typical shopping trip, you might be confronted with a couple hundred different salad dressings, just as many soups and maybe 300 varieties of cookies. And don’t even mention cereal. Do you want your breakfast bowl filled with oats, rice, wheat or combinations of all three? Cheerios, Wheaties, Raisin Bran? Fruit Loops, Lucky Charms, Cocoa Puffs? With or without fruit and nuts in the package? With or without a surprise? Then again, maybe you’ll just have granola. A recent stroll down the toothpaste aisle divulged an embarrassment of choices that actually made my teeth hurt: Gum Detoxify, Rapid Relief, Glamorous White, Daily Protection, Fresh Breath, Complete Protection, Extra Fresh Repair & Protect, Extreme Clean, Tartar Protection, Cavity Protection, With Scope, Baking Soda and Peroxide, Deep Clean, Pro Health, Pro Health Advanced, 3D White, Optic White, True White, Intensive Enamel Repair, Max Fresh Breath Strips, Triple Action, Sparkling White, Brilliance and, of course, Sensitive. And again … that’s toothpaste! Those of us who’ve been alive long enough to remember how things used to be — back when it was basically Crest,

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

Colgate and Pepsodent — would surely be amazed at the staggering number of choices we have today. That is, if we ever stopped to think about it. Many of us, young and old, share a blase obliviousness to what is now just an accepted part of life. But is so much choice too much of a good thing? Maybe so. As early as 1970, the words “overchoice” or “choice overload” entered the lexicon. Introduced by Alvin Toffler in his book, Future Shock, the terms describe what happens when a lot of options make it more difficult to make a decision, overwhelming people with potential outcomes and risks of making the wrong choice. “So much choice produces paralysis, not liberation,” says psychologist Barry Schwartz in a TED talk. “With so many options to choose from, people find it very difficult to choose at all. And even if we overcome the paralysis and make a choice, we end up less satisfied with the result of the choice than we would be if we had fewer options to choose from.” One reason for that is if you make a purchase that you’re not happy with, with so many choices available, it becomes easy to imagine a different choice that would have been better. “And what happens is,” Schwartz says, “this imagined alternative induces you to regret the decision you made, and this regret subtracts from the satisfaction you get out of the decision you made — even if it was a good decision. The more options there are, the easier it is to regret anything at all that is disappointing about the option that you chose.” Today, we call that FOMO. (Fear of missing out.) Hmm. If we put our minds to it, I guess we still have the choice to be satisfied with our choices, even if they fall short of our expectations. And we can always take comfort in the thought that freedom of choice is a whole lot better than having no choice at all. Either way — and I’ll choose my words carefully here — it still seems like we all have way more choices than we really need. I mean, we seemed to do OK back when we had a whole lot fewer of them, back when life sure seemed so much simpler and saner, back when the big decision we had to make was whether to spend Sunday night in the Ed Sullivan Theater or out on the Ponderosa. September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

SeptemberEvents HOW TO SUBMIT CALENDAR LISTINGS

Please e-mail listing information to events@browardfamilylife.com by the 5th of the month prior to the event date. Include the name of the event, location, address, date, time, brief description, price and telephone number for the public.

IT’S SHOWTIME! ArtsLaunch

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Adrienne Arsht Center kicks off the start of its art season with an all day community event with miniperformances, family activities, interactive workshops, a farmers market and community arts village with more than 100 arts and cultural organizations. Free. 10am, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-949-6722 www.arshtcenter.org

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Nature Tots

Butterfly Gardening Workshop

Explore nature through stories, songs, arts and crafts and more. Ages 2-4. $5. Parental participation and pre-registration required. 10am. Sept. 3, MIRAMAR PINELAND, 3600 S. University Dr., Miramar, 954-357-8776; Sept. 12, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198; Sept. 17, WEST LAKE PARK, 1200 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161; Sept. 26, SECRET WOODS NATURE CENTER, 2701 W. State Rd. 84, Dania Beach, 954-357-8884

Learn to identify and attract local butterflies to your own backyard. Workshops are held indoors, in the Grand Plaza. Free with admission of $29.95/adult, $21.95/child. 1pm, BUTTERFLY WORLD, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-977-4434 www.butterflyworld.com

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, SEPTEMBER 3-26

Zooming in on Nature SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

All ages can learn photography techniques through this Nature Photography 101 class and a naturalist-led walk. $5. 10-11am, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198 www.broward.org/parks

Full Moon Hike

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Enjoy a guided hike along the nature trails of Long Key by the light of the full moon. All ages. $5. 8-9pm, LONG KEY NATURE CENTER, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797, www.broward.org/parks

Music Under the Stars Enjoy the ocean breezes during this evening of music under the stars offered monthly on the second Friday of the month. 7-9pm, THE “GREAT LAWN,” Atlantic Boulevard & Pompano Beach Boulevard, Pompano Beach, 954-786-4111 www.pompanobeachfl.gov

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Bring a fishing pole and bait for a fun-filled morning of fishing at the park. Pre-registration required. Free. 8:30-10:30am, WELLEBY PARK, 11100 NW 44 St., Sunrise, 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

Dog-Friendly Nature Hike SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Bring your furry friend for a walk through the pine forest along a lakeside trail. All dogs are required to be on a 6-foot leash. One dog per adult handler. $5/person, plus the park’s regular weekend fee of $1.50/person ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. 10-11am, MARKHAM PARK, 16001 W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise, 954-357-8868 www.broward.org/parks

Trail Stroll

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Bring a drum or percussion instrument to this guided drum circle. All levels welcome. 7-9pm, ARTSPARK AT YOUNG CIRCLE, Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway, 954-926-0204 www.hollywoodfl.org

Disney On Ice: Road Trip Adventures

THURSDAY-SATURDAY, SEPT. 12-14 & THURSDAY-SUNDAY, SEPT. 19-22

Join Mickey Mouse, Moana, Simba, Aladdin and other Disney friends in this world-class skating adventure. • Sept. 12-14, BB&T CENTER, One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, www.thebbtcenter.com • Sept. 19-22, AMERICANAIRLINES ARENA, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.aaarena.com

Life through 88 Keys SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Sunrise native Alyssa Conde performs a solo piano repertoire featuring works by classical composers including Shubert, Mozart and Debussy. $20/adult, $10/child. 2pm, SUNRISE CIVIC CENTER THEATRE, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, 954-747-4646 www.sunrisefl.gov

FrankenSTEM

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Put on your walking shoes and take a guided boardwalk stroll through the mangrove swamp. All ages. Free. 10-10:45am, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math come to life onstage during this learning adventure presented by Bright Star Theatre. $8/adult, $6/child. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW THEATRE AT SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3948 www.willowtheatre.org

Be Kind To Animals

Jazz in the Pines Concert

SUNDAYS

Full Moon Drum Circle

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Kids’ Fishing Derby

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Settle in to see beloved characters on the big screen as several educational episodes are shown. Stick around after for pictures with cast members in the lobby. $7/person. 2pm, SUNRISE CIVIC CENTER THEATRE, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, 954-747-4646 www.sunrisefl.gov

Children get up close and personal to native and exotic animals while learning about pet responsibility and kindness to animals. Included with admission of $5/adult, $3/child. 11am, SAWGRASS NATURE CENTER & WILDLIFE HOSPITAL, 3000 Sportsplex Dr., Coral Springs,

954-752-9453 www.sawgrassnaturecenter.org

| browardfamilylife.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Bring a comfortable chair and kick back to the sounds of smooth jazz. Free. 5-7pm, CHARLES F. DODGE CITY CENTER,

601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, 954-392-2116 www.ppines.com

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Lost World of Dinosaurs Extravaganza

Children with Special Needs Family Resource Fair

Catch the final weekend to view the Lost World of Dinosaurs exhibit during a three-day extravaganza that includes games, crafts, live presentations and a Dino Dig. Included with paid admission of $19.95/12 and older, $12.95/ages 3-11. FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org

Have some fun with the family while learning about a variety of special needs resources offered in the community. The event, presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, includes activities, entertainment, giveaways, refreshments, special needs resources and more. Free. 10am-2pm, SIGNATURE GRAND, 6900 State Road 84, Davie, 954-276-5293

Festival of the Arts

A Day for Children

Celebrate the arts with interactive experiences, demonstrations, music and art workshops, live entertainment and more. Free. Noon-5pm, BAILEY HALL, 3501 Davie Rd., Davie, 954-201-6884 www.baileyhall.org

This fun-filled day focuses on children’s needs, from free health screenings including hearing, vision and dental health to social services and other resources. Kids can enjoy activities, games, characters and more. Free. 11am-5pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-678-2273

SATURDAY-MONDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2

Riverwalk Fall Festival SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Kids Love & Family Expo SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Family Fun Bash

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

A fun-filled day hosted by Miami Diaper Bank with activities, music, kids workouts, raffles and more. Support the cause and get free admission by bringing a new pack of diapers (one pack per person). 10am-6pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

Fall Harvest Festival SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Rock N’ Ride

Family extravaganza with exhibitors, interactive activities, celebrities, live concerts, characters and more. $16/adult, $13/ages 2-12, $15/grandparents. 10am-5pm, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.kidslovefamilyexpo.com

Fall-themed family festival with food, fun, games and activities for all ages. Free admission. Noon-4pm, ESPLANADE PARK, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.goriverwalk.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Free family event featuring live music, a car show, food trucks, and more. 4-7pm, TAMARAC SPORTS COMPLEX, 9901 NW 77 St., Tamarac, www.tamarac.org

Celebrate the season with live performances, a petting farm, handmade arts and craft vendors, family activities and more. 4-8pm, BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS, 4271 Davie Rd., Davie, 954-797-1181 www.davie-fl.gov

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Funtastic Fridays FRIDAYS

Bring the kids for some wholesome outdoor fun featuring a bounce house, face painters and more followed by an outdoor movie. Sept. 6, Ferdinand; Sept. 13, Ant-Man; Sept. 20, Ant-Man & The Wasp; Sept. 27, Big Hero 6. 5-8pm, ARTSPARK AT YOUNG CIRCLE, Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway, Hollywood, 954-921-3500 www.hollywoodfl.org

Sunday Jazz Brunch SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Community gathering along Riverwalk with musical entertainment on three different stages, food, and a great family ambiance. Pets welcome. Held regularly on the first Sunday of each month. Free. 11am-2pm, ESPLANADE PARK, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.fortlauderdale.gov

Game Character Pencil Toppers

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 & FRIDAY-SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7

Make a pencil decoration for the start of the new school year. Included with paid admission of $12/Broward resident. 10am-2pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

Cool Saturdays

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Visitors can tour the historic house for half the price the first Saturday of the month through October. Special admission price is $10/adult,

free/children 12 and under. 9am-4pm, BONNET HOUSE, 900 N. Birch Rd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-563-5393 www.bonnethouse.org

Fall Crafts

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Kids ages 6-11 can have some fun designing creative fall crafts. Preregistration required. 2pm, WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 954-765-1585 www.broward.org/library

Fantastic Fiesta

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Children with autism or other sensory integration sensitivities and their families can explore Hispanic cultures from around the world through music, art and dance during this Sensory Sunday event. Included with paid admission of $12/Broward resident. 10am-noon, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 youngatartmuseum.org

Colorful Piñatas

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13-14

Create your own artistic piñata using paper rolls and colorful tissue paper. Included with paid admission of $12/Broward resident. 10am-2pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

Happy Birthday Very Hungry Caterpillar SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of this

beloved children’s book with a story time, games and giveaways. 11am-noon, MAIN LIBRARY, 100 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.broward.org/library

Attack of the Bloodsuckers

OPENS SEPTEMBER 14

Traveling exhibit teaches the science of mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, leeches and other parasites and why they bite you. Hands-on activities include an itchy and knotty life-size game of “Twitcher,” look a leech in the mouth and more. Included with paid admission of $19/adult, $16/child. MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.mods.org

Jr. Anglers Day

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

A fun-filled family event featuring fishing clinics, goodie bait buckets, arts and crafts, face painting and more. Registration begins at 8am. 9am-1pm, INTERNATIONAL FISHING PIER, 200 NE 21 Ave., Deerfield Beach, 954-480-4429 www.deerfield-beach.com

Movies in the Park FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Bring lawn chairs and a picnic and settle in for a movie under the stars. Event takes place the first Friday of every month. September features: Dumbo. 8pm, COMMUNITY PARK, 1700 NE Eighth St., Pompano Beach, 954-786-4111 www.pompanobeachfl.gov

Hispanic Heritage Program

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage with entertainment, food and more. All ages. 2-3pm, WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 954-765-1585 www.broward.org/library

Hollywood Food Trucks MONDAYS

Bring the family for music, food and fun. Twenty different food trucks each offering something different to satisfy any hunger. 5:30-9:30pm, ARTSPARK AT YOUNG CIRCLE, Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway, www.hollywoodfl.org

You’ve Got A Friend In Me Celebration SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Have a rootin’ tootin’ afternoon at a Toy Story inspired party filled with crafts, activities and a comedy show. Showtimes at 1pm and 2:15pm. 1-3pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477 lib.nova.edu/friend

Every effort has been made to provide accurate information. Changes and cancellations do occur. Please double check the details before setting out on your adventure.

WANT MORE FUN? For additional local events, check our online calendar at www.browardfamilylife.com

September 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

WORDS of wisdom

Exam Doom WELL VISITS TO THE PEDIATRICIAN MAKE MOM FEEL SICK BY CHERYL MAGUIRE

t’s going to be easier, right? I try to convince myself of this as Nemo darts by a cave in the fish tank. Even though we are seated in the non-sick section of the waiting area, I feel germs crawling all over me. My twins’ well visit has always been challenging. As babies, they cried the entire time. As toddlers, they sprinted in opposite directions while I attempted to corral them back into the office. As school-aged children, they still dashed out of the room but their longer legs enabled them to outrun me. Now that they’re older and capable of following directions (most of the time), I’m really hoping for a more mundane experience. Thirty minutes tick by. My positive outlook diminishes. “I’m bored.” “When are we going home?” Before I can reply, the nurse calls their names and leads us to a 10-by-12 windowless room. At least they can’t escape this space. “I wanna go home.” “Are we getting shots?” We hear a knock on the door. I feel like saying, “Finally,” but instead I answer, “Come in.” The doctor’s questions begin routinely, but then take an uneasy turn towards my parenting techniques (or lack thereof). He vigorously records his observations. “Do they play video games?” “Yes, Minecraft.” “Do you know they kill each other in that game?” asks the doctor. “Yeah, but there isn’t any blood,” my son interjects. “Do they watch TV?” “Not really.” They’re too busy playing video games to have time to watch TV. “Do they watch TV before bedtime?” “No. We read books.”

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

| browardfamilylife.com

“We watch TV,” my daughter objects. Great, now the doctor thinks I’m lying and letting them watch TV. “Do they eat all meals at the kitchen table?” “Yes,” I respond cautiously, staring at my children. “She won’t let us eat in the family room,” my daughter offers with a tattling tone, without realizing she is finally making me sound like a competent parent. “Do they eat green vegetables?” “They like corn.” “I don’t eat corn,” my son protests. “No, do they eat green vegetables?” “Not really.” They aren’t even offered green vegetables since I gave up trying to get them to eat green vegetables years ago. The questions end and he begins the actual physical examination. Being a stickler for taking showers and general cleanliness, I relax a little bit thinking it will all be over soon. This state of being is interrupted when I notice that the doctor is scrutinizing my daughter’s lower appendage. My pulse quickens when he bends closer to study it, clearly concerned about something. Then things take a turn for the worse. “Can you take a look at this?” the doctor asks. I almost utter, “Gross!” There’s an angry rash all over my daughter’s leg. “It looks infected. I am going to prescribe an antibiotic.” He furiously transcribes for at least five minutes without looking at us. I can only imagine what is going on over there. By the time he’s done with this “well visit,” he will have an entire book written. I’m guessing his note states something like: “Mother doesn’t understand yellow corn is not a green vegetable and she is oblivious to proper bathing procedures. Recommend parenting classes, stat.” In the next room, a baby is crying, most likely getting shots, and I can’t help but feel envious. Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer whose writing has been published in The New York Times, among other publications. She is the mother of twins and a daughter, and she’s already dreading their next well visit.