Broward Family Life April 2017 by Broward Family Life

APRIL 2017

COMPLIMENTARY

Going

GREEN A MOMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ATTEMPT TO HELP SAVE THE WORLD

Spring Flings FAMILY FUN THROUGHOUT BROWARD & BEYOND

Conquer the

CLUTTER

MOTIVATING KIDS TO PART WITH THEIR POSSESSIONS

Noah, Subglottic Stenosis Dr. Samuel Ostrower,

Medical Director of Pediatric Otolaryngology

When It Matters Most

TRUST

Children need the right doctor and the right hospital. Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital has every medical specialty a parent could want and the expertise every child needs. That’s why when it mattered most, Noah’s parents trusted Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital to surgically open his airway so he could breathe normally. When it matters most for your child, trust the team of experts in pediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) treatment at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

Visit JDCH.com/Noah to watch his story and learn more.

LOCATIONS IN SOUTH-FLORIDA

PEMBROKE PINES

CORAL GABLES

WESTON

MIAMI

10261 Pines Boulevard 218 Almeria Avenue Pembroke Pines, FL 33026 Coral Gables, FL 33134 1495 North Park Drive Weston, FL 33326

2955 Coral Way Miami, FL 33145

CORAL SPRINGS

BOCA RATON

1750 N. University Drive Suites 105-107-109 Coral Springs, FL 33071

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

PHONE NUMBER

(954) 633-5507

E-mail: info@therapies4kids.com Website: www.therapies4kids.com

NO WAITING LIST â&#x20AC;¢ OPEN SATURDAY

WE ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCES AND MEDICAID We offer therapy for adults

PHYSICAL THERAPY OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SPEECH THERAPY CHIROPRACTIC ACUPUNCTURE ABA FOR AUTISM CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY NAET

ROCKET-FAST

ER C A R E F O R K I D S HC

st F

rid

a. co m

Our highly-trained physicians and expert emergency teams ensure patients can expect short wait times and a compassionate, comprehensive approach, all aimed at getting them and their kids healthy, quickly.

For average ER wait times, visit HCAEastFlorida.com.

24/7 Kid-Friendly Care

FREE SPRING BASKETS

“SPRING INTO HEALTH”

HEALTH FAIR SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 2017 10:00 AM TO 3:00 PM

FREE

SPRING BASKETS (First 500 children)

Inside The Lauderhill Mall 1267 N. State Road 7 Lauderhill, FL 33313

Florida KidCare Application Assistance __________ Free Immunizations _________ Pre-register for a Free Mammogram at 954-762-3649 ________ HIV Testing ___________ Free Fruit and Vegetable Distribution ____ Face Painting _________ Games & Entertainment Prizes __________ *For more information, scan barcode.*

Or call us at

(954)467-8737

contents APRIL 2017

Spring Flings A Easter Things Grab a basket and get ready for some old-fashioned fun with egg hunts, visits with The Bunny and activities galore.

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOT ALWAYS EASY BEING GREEN A mom tries to lead her family down the do-the-right-thing path. Here, she shares the good, the bad and the ugly as they go about their suburban lives. Also, a look at some local events to celebrate Earth Day.

SUMMER OF INDEPENDENCE Time at camp may be all it takes to spark a little self-determination in your kid.

ON THE COVER Laila Abdullah, 4, of Davie A Cover Angels winner On this page: Noah Abdullah, 2 Location: Living Color Garden Center, Fort Lauderdale Photographer: Lisa Nalven

DEPARTMENTS 12 Broward and Beyond News about the people, places and events in our community.

26 Home Tech Too much clutter? Online resources to help kids part with their possessions.

28 Family Health How to improve your adolescent’s sleep habits.

30 Family Man A dad is reminded that trust is a two-way street.

44 Calendar of Events Entertaining and noteworthy things to see and do in every corner of Broward County.

fourth ANNUAL

CLASSIC CAR ROUND UP The FIRST and only COVERED CAR SHOW in Florida, presented by

THE TOWN OF DAVIE -and SENTINEL CLASSICS INSURANCE

Sunday, April 30, 2017 10:00am – 4:00pm

Bergeron Rodeo Grounds of Davie FL

Live Entertainment Fun Zone-Free Petting Farm -Free Kids Great Food and Vendors 954-797-1181

www.davie-fl.gov

46 Words of Wisdom Perfecting the art of procrastination.

We Hear You Broward Family Life is all about building a better community for all Broward County families. If you have a comment or idea, we want to hear from you. Please post to our Facebook page or email us at info@browardfamily.com Don’t forget to “like” us on Facebook, and be sure to check out our website, BrowardFamilyLife.com, for the most updated information on local events and resources for families.

We asked you to tell us your secrets… we’re almost ready to spill the beans. When we asked our readers to tell us about their BFFs — Broward Family Favorites — you came through in a big way. You shared everything from the name of your favorite pediatrician to the best place to host a birthday party. We’re almost ready to share the details of your BFFs with the world. But shhhhhh… You’ll have to wait one more month. Watch for our May issue, when we reveal all the exciting results.

2017 AWA R D S

It promises to be our most talked-about issue ever!

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

FREE Book to the first 1,000 kids 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

Saturday, May 6 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. West Regional Library 8601 W. Broward Blvd. , Plantation, FL 33324 Contact: 954-357-7406 Be the first to preview what is going on at libraries for this summer!

Michelle Liem ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Stacey Jacques ASSOCIATE EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance CONTRIBUTORS Lela Davidson • Carolyn Jabs Malia Jacobson • Gregory Keer Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Anina Venuti CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carrie B. Weeks PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Toni Kirkland CORPORATE OFFICE 5400 S. University Drive, Suite 310 Davie, FL 33328 Phone (954) 424-7405 Fax (954) 424-8898 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 Broward Family Life, Inc. 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.

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Broward & Beyond »

ound up the sleeping bags, pack the marshmallows and prepare to pitch that tent. Spring break, or springtime in general, is the perfect time to head out into the great outdoors for an overnight adventure with the family. It puts kids in touch with the natural world, offers parents a breath of fresh air and can be an opportunity for everyone involved to unplug and reconnect with one another. Sound great, but not sure where to start? If a trek beyond backyard camping is new to you and your family, the concept may seem daunting, but fear not, as a number of local parks make camping a breeze by providing activities, amenities, equipment and even in some instances, the comforts of home. Get started with an online search of Florida State Parks and you will find nearby locations to create a camping experience that includes everything from boating and fishing to horseback riding and snorkeling. For instance, Oleta River State Park on Biscayne Bay offers canoeing, kayaking, swimming and rustic cabin rentals for a quick getaway. If you want to stick closer to home, tent camping is available at Broward County’s Markham Park in Sunrise and Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach offers a unique Rent-a-Tent package with platform spaces that include a 10x10 canvas tent set up to

Campground at Quiet Waters Park

sleep six, or a tepee. The sites also feature a fire ring, electricity and running water. While there, kids can pedal through the mountain bike trails, view the butterfly sanctuary or check out sports equipment free of charge. For added fun, campers can cool off at Splash Adventure, the park’s on-site waterpark. Broward County’s four water playgrounds located within T.Y. Park, C.B. Smith, Quiet Waters and Broward Regional, will be open daily during spring break, and every weekend throughout the month of April.

If glamping (aka: glamorous camping) is more your speed, Markham, C.B. Smith, Easterlin and T.Y. Parks all have campgrounds with full RV hookups, picnic tables, charcoal grills, restrooms with hot showers and Wi-Fi access locations. No matter what type of outing you choose, camping is a bonding experience that is sure to create long-lasting memories for your entire family. For more information about local parks and camping spots visit floridastateparks.org or broward.org

SMART TV FOR LITTLE ONES These days, kids have access to more and more media with the simple click of a button or flip of a channel. More doesn’t always necessarily mean better though. No matter how many restrictions or blocks we place on television channels, nothing is 100 percent effective at protecting what kids see and hear, and viewing choices still need to be monitored by adults. PBS KIDS is making it easier for little ones, and their parents, to make good choices when it comes to what they are

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viewing on TV. Local PBS affiliate WPBT2 South Florida recently launched a 24/7 channel developed with the youngest of viewers in mind. A trusted source for children’s educational media, the channel airs PBS KIDS favorites including Wild Kratts, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Odd Squad and Nature Cat around the clock. Families are now able to watch South Florida PBS KIDS anytime on channels 2.4 and 42.4, on Comcast channels 200 and 205 (Miami-Dade and Broward) and 202 (Palm Beaches) or on the PBS KIDS video app at pbskids.org/apps/pbs-kids-video.html. About 90 percent of all households in the U.S. will broadcast the channel by the end of the year. For information visit wpbt2.org

Photo by Greg Page

Happy Campers

Laila and Noah Abdullah Photo by Lisa Nalven

Spring Flings A Easter Things Grab a basket and get ready for some old-fashioned fun with egg hunts, visits with The Bunny and activities galore

Coconut Creek

Dania Beach

Spring Egg Hunt

Hop into Spring

TUESDAY, APRIL 11

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

Bring a basket for an egg hunt and spring activities. Ages 3-8. Pre-register online. $15/non-resident, $10/resident. 6:15-7pm, Coconut Creek Community Center, 1100 Lyons Rd., 954-545-6670 coconutcreek.net

Play hopping games, make a springtime craft and at 2:30pm meet some small furry and feathered animals with Animal Tales. Free. Pre-registration is required. 2-4pm, Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W. State Road 84, 954-357-8884

Cooper City â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Tween Twilight Egg Hunt THURSDAY, APRIL 13 Bring flashlights for an evening egg hunt geared especially for middle school students in grades 6-8, with games and prizes for all. Cooper City residents only. Reservations required. Free. 7-9pm, Cooper City Pool and Tennis Center, 11600 Stonebridge Parkway, 954-434-4300 coopercityfl.org

Cooper City Egg-stravaganza SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Bring your own basket and join the hunt for eggs. Cooper City residents only, fifth grade and under. Free. 10am, Cooper City Sports Complex, 10298 Stirling Rd., 954-434-4300 coopercityfl.org

Coral Springs Brunch with the Bunnies & Friends SATURDAY, APRIL 8 Fill up on food and find some eggs. Event includes a brunch buffet, egg hunt, games, crafts, photos with the Big Bunny and a chance to meet some very special animals. $15. Two seatings: 9:30am & 11:30am, Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital, 3000 Sportsplex Dr., 954-752-9453 sawgrassnaturecenter.org

Spring Celebration SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a hop, skip and a jump to some great community fun, including an egg hunt and DJ music. Event begins at 11:30am; egg hunt at noon. Frost Park Recreational Complex, 300 NE Second St., 954-924-3690 ci.dania-beach.fl.us

Davie Eco-EggStravaganza THURSDAY, APRIL 13 Kids can learn about reusing, reducing and recycling while participating in spring activities including the annual Eggstravaganza Egg Drop contest in which kids use their creativity and ingenuity to create cradles or parachutes to protect their eggs as they are dropped nearly 50 feet from the top of a fire truck ladder. Egg drop at 2pm. 10am-5pm, Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121 Ave., 954-424-0085 youngatartmuseum.org

Spring Egg Hunt & Multi-Ethnic Festival SATURDAY, APRIL 15 A community tradition featuring farm animals, a bounce house, hayride and hands-on activities. Egg hunts for children ages 8 and under starting at 10am. 9amnoon, Bamford Sports Complex, 3801 S. Pine Island Rd., 954-797-1000 davie-fl.gov

Meet the Bunny and Orchid and Bromeliad Show SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 15-16 Kids can make Easter crafts and say hello to the Bunny at this annual event that includes more than 30 orchid and bromeliad vendors, lectures, demonstrations, live entertainment and more. Included with admission of $19.95/adult, $12.95/child. 9:30am-4:30pm, Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955 flamingogardens.org

Deerfield Beach Flashlight Egg Hunt THURSDAY, APRIL 13 This hunt is for older kids who want a challenge. Be sure to bring a flashlight and a bag to carry your eggs. Ages 7-14. Starts at 8pm sharp. Constitution Park, 2841 W. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-480-4494 deerfield-beach.com

Egg-Stravaganza FRIDAY, APRIL 14 Ready, set, go! More than 8,000 eggs filled with candy and prizes will be scattered through the park. Prizes for finding special eggs. Ages 12 and under. Free. 6pm sharp, Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex, 445 SW Second St., 954-480-4494 deerfield-beach.com

Easter Egg Run SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Search for special eggs in this hunt for ages 3-10. Starts promptly at 10am. Deerfield Middle School Athletic Complex, 501 SE Sixth Ave., 954-480-4494 deerfield-beach.com Continued on next page

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

T O W N O F DA V I E

Spring Egg Hunt

Saturday, April 15 9am-12pm

Fort Lauderdale Eggstravaganza Block Party SATURDAY, APRIL 8 Celebrate spring with a block party and egg hunt with entertainment, prizes, face painting, food trucks, and a bounce house. 10am-3pm, Riverland Park, 950 SW 27 Ave., fortlauderdale.gov

Spring Egg Hunt SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Enjoy egg hunts and meet the Spring Bunny at this springtime event. 10am, Mills Pond Park, 2201 NW Ninth Ave., fortlauderdale.gov

Spring Fun

FREE

Children’s entertainment all morning including petting farm, hayride, bounce houses and children’s activities

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Print & Packaging / CMYK / 150 dpi / .psd

Children hunt in separate age groups.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15 This fun-filled event includes egg hunts, music, bounce houses, carnival games, and

Egg Hunt

will begin at 10am For children ages 8 and under

Bamford Sports Complex, 3801 South Pine Island Road 954-797-1181 • www.davie–fl.gov

food trucks. 10am-1pm, Holiday Park, 1150 G. Harold Martin Dr., fortlauderdale.gov

Croissant Park Egg Hunt SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Meet the Spring Bunny and celebrate spring with egg hunts and prizes. Noon-2pm, Croissant Park, 245 W. Park Dr., fortlauderdale.gov

Spring Eggstravaganza SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Have a fun day with springtime activities at the park. Noon-5pm, Lauderdale Manors Park, 1340 Chateau Park Dr., fortlauderdale.gov

Hallandale Beach Egg-stravaganza SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Bring a basket for the traditional egg hunt, and don’t forget your camera to capture your child’s excitement. The fun begins at 10am sharp. Free. 10am-noon, Peter Bluesten Park, 501 SE First Ave., 954-457-1452 hallandalebeach.org

Hollywood Spring Marshmallow Drop SATURDAY, APRIL 8 A fun-filled day with entertainment, an egg hunt, games, a marshmallow drop and personal meetings with the Bunny. Free. 2-5pm, Boulevard Heights Community Center, 6770 Garfield St., 954-921-3404 hollywoodfl.org

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Pembroke Pines Sundaes with the Bunny SATURDAY, APRIL 8 An old-fashioned ice cream social with a certain special guest. Advance tickets required. $6/resident, $8/non-resident. 2-4pm, SW Focal Point Community Center, 301 NW 103 Ave., 954-392-2116 ppines.com

Egg Hunt SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Hop on over to one of two egg hunts for prizes, bunny ears, crafts, a visit from Peter Rabbit and fun. Free. Egg Hunt at 10am. 9:30-11:30am, Pines Recreation Center, 7400 Pines Blvd., and Pembroke Shores Park, 501 SW 172 Ave., 954-392-2116 ppines.com

Plantation Royal Egg Hunt SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Bring baskets or bags and join in the hunt for hidden eggs. Prizes and candy for all. Ages 3-10, grouped by age. 10am sharp, Pop Travers Field, 6250 SW 16 St., 954-452-2510 plantation.org

Pompano Beach Spring Fling SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Celebrate spring with music, games, a DJ, egg hunt, inflatables, arts & crafts, and more. 9am-noon, Pompano Beach Community Park, Multi-Purpose Field, 2001 NE Tenth St., 954-786-4111 pompanobeachfl.gov

Sunrise Royal Egg Hunt SATURDAY, APRIL 8 Dress as your favorite princess or prince and enter a magical kingdom for a special egg hunt, a picture with King Bunny, face painting, crafts, rides, and more. $5/participant. 10am-1pm, Sunrise Athletic Complex, 11501 NW 44 St., 954-747-4600 sunrisefl.gov Continued on next page

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Tamarac Tamarac Springfest SATURDAY, APRIL 8 A morning of fun with an egg hunt, bounce houses and spring-themed games. Ages 10 & under. Free. Hunt at 10am; activities continue through noon. Tamarac Sports Complex, 9901 NW 77 St., 954-597-3620 tamarac.org

Weston Royal Egg Hunt

April 8, 9 & 15

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Make yours now at: www.palmbeachzoo.org

Egg Hunt • Up-Close Animal Encounters Photos With The Bunny & More! Party For The Planet April 22

SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Kids can hunt for more than 30,000 candyfilled eggs hidden on four fields, followed by fun on a bounce house, photos with the Royal Bunny and more. Ages 10 & under. Free. 10am sharp, Weston Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., 954-389-4321 westonfl.org

Wilton Manors Spring Eggstravaganza

1301 Summit Boulevard, West Palm Beach 561-547-WILD (9453)

THE CITY that has more fun.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8 Search for eggs throughout the church grounds. Event includes entertainment, activities, and more. For children up to age 13. Free. 10am-noon, St. Clement Catholic Church, 225 NW 29 St., 954-390-2130 wiltonmanors.com

Palm Beach County Breakfast with the Bunny SATURDAY & SUNDAY, APRIL 8-9,

April 8th – Springfest

Face painting, bounce houses and an egg hunt for ages 10 & under. Egg hunt starts promptly at 10! Tamarac Sports Complex

9901 NW 77th St.

10am - noon

April 21st – Concert in the Park

A live outdoor concert featuring country rock and soul from “The Railway Kings”.There’ll be a bounce house for the kids and trucks offering a variety of food and snacks. Tamarac Sports Complex

9901 NW 77th St.

7-9 pm

For more information visit www.tamarac.org and click on Special Events, or call (954) 597-3620. 18

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AND SATURDAY, APRIL 15 Hop over to the zoo for an egg-citing egg hunt, egg-cellent hot breakfast buffet and eggs-tra special guests — Mr. Bunny and some of his animal friends. Space limited; pre-registration required. Times vary, Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-547-9453 palmbeachzoo.org

Spring Egg Dive FRIDAY, APRIL 14 An underwater hunt in which children search for pennies on the bottom of the pool and turn them in for eggs filled with toys. For ages 5-13. Free. Starts promptly at 10:30am, Meadows Park Pool, 1300 NW Eighth St., Boca Raton 561-393-7851

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOT ALWAYS EASY BEING

ike any good mom, I try to lead my family down the do-the-right-thing path as we go about our suburban lives. This includes adopting environmentally friendly habits as I try to instill a leave-no-trace mentality in my family.

Let’s just say they’re about ready to stuff me into the recycling bin with my

attempts to “green up” our lives. “Listen, Mother Earth, you need to chill,” my husband Kevin says to me on a regular basis, as I try to shove my save-the-planet philosophy down my family’s throat. I admit that I sometimes go a little overboard in my efforts. I also admit that I sometimes fail miserably at my own green habits due to inconvenience or the reality of living with teen boys. For example, I’ve drilled my kids on the importance of the three big “R’s”: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Yet, despite my best efforts, we often fall short. Here’s the good, the bad and the ugly of my crusade.

REDUCE THE GOOD: To cut down on all the harmful chemicals and reduce the influx of disposable containers in our home, I sometimes make my own non-toxic cleaning products with simple ingredients like water, vinegar, and lemon juice. THE BAD: While this DIY approach works as effectively as most cleaners, I’m banned from using them when my family is at home because they claim it makes the house smell like pungent salad dressing. Which it does, but only for 10-minutes. THE UGLY: With two teen boys in the house, I’m not against breaking out the Lysol as needed. I’m all for “going green,” but teen messes and smelly soccer cleats demand the toxic big guns, like bleach, alkyl, dimethyl benzyl, and other ingredients I can’t pronounce. Ozone layer, air quality, and clean water be damned! I’m trying to survive two teenagers. Continued on next page

BY LISA A. BEACH

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Renew your relationship with Mother Nature this month with these local activities: Continued from page 21

REUSE THE GOOD: We own at least a dozen refillable water bottles, which we regularly take to school, work, soccer games, etc. One drink at a time, we’re not adding to the county landfill. Yay, us! THE BAD: While we’ve slowly upgraded most of our water bottles to stainless steel or BPA-free plastic over the years, a few “bad plastics” still lurk in our cupboards. For unknown reasons, we’re still holding onto a few toxic, BPA-laden freebies emblazoned with our local radio station’s logo.  THE UGLY: At this very moment, we’ve got a case of disposable water bottles sitting on our back porch. Despite our best efforts to bring reusable containers everywhere, we’ve just committed the pinnacle of atrocious eco-crimes. Not only did we buy disposable water bottles, but we bought them in bulk. What kind of monsters are we?

RECYCLE THE GOOD: I have a zealot-level intensity for recycling. Each week, our recycling bins overflow with aluminum cans, plastic bottles, newspapers, and empty cereal boxes. I’m thrilled that we’ve reduced our carbon footprint. THE BAD: Sometimes my overly aggressive efforts tick off my husband, like when he hasn’t yet read the Sunday newspaper, and I’ve already tossed it into the recycling bin by 10 a.m. that morning. (This is where he starts, “Listen, Mother Earth….”)  THE UGLY: Like George Costanza picking a Twinkie out of the trash in a classic Seinfeld episode, I’ve been known to pluck a perfectly good empty toilet paper roll out of the bathroom waste can and put it in the recycling bin. My husband thinks I’ve sunk to a new low. But do you know how many trees I’ve saved over the years? While I’ve got the best of intentions, I struggle with trying to set a good example and then consistently live up to it. For example, rather than waste gallons of water while brushing my teeth, I turn the faucet off until I’m ready to “rinse and spit.” Sometimes my husband or the boys will leave the faucet running full blast while brushing their teeth. “My God, you can bathe a toddler with all the water you’re wasting!” I chastise over the gushing stream. The problem? My hypocrisy comes back to haunt me when they point out that I take longer showers than a construction worker after a long, hot day on the job. Damn, they’re right. Yet, despite my eco-fails, I keep trying to live the green life. In fact, I’ve seriously asked for a compost bin for Mother’s Day for the last five years. So far, no one’s running to Home Depot to fulfill my wish. Instead, I usually receive flowers on Mother’s Day. Of course, when they die, I could have tossed them into the compost bin IF I HAD ONE. The struggle is real, people. My favorite Muppet, Kermit, said it best: “It’s not easy being green.”

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RECYCLE CHALLENGE Fridays-Saturdays March 31-April 29 Kids can explore the Gold LEED certified museum’s exhibits, and put their design skills to the test by creating accessories and art out of recycled materials during special themed weekends. Free with paid admission of $12/Broward resident. 10am-2pm, Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 youngatartmuseum.org

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL Saturday, April 1 Family-friendly event featuring live music, children’s activities, giveaways, eco-friendly goods, bounce houses, food vendors and resources for greener living. Free. 11am-4pm, Sawgrass Sanctuary Park, 237 N. New River Circle, Sunrise, 954-747-4600 sunrisefl.gov

WATERWAY CLEAN-UP AND TRASH SPLASH Saturday, April 8 Part of a public awareness campaign to keep waterways clean, this effort takes place along the C-11 Canal. After the cleanup participants receive a ticket to the Trash Splash pool celebration at the Pine Island Park Pool. Clean-up hours are 9-11:30am, Davie Town Hall, 6591 Orange Dr., Davie, 954-797-1181 davie-fl.gov

WASTE MANAGEMENT EARTH DAY Saturday, April 8 Families of children registered at 14 elementary schools are invited to learn more about recycling and the environment through crafts, landfill tours and other activities. Free, but pre-registration is required. Check website to see if your child’s school is included. Noon-3pm, Monarch Hill Renewable Energy Park, 2700 Wiles Rd., Pompano Beach, monarchhillearthday.com

EARTH DAY AT TRADEWINDS Saturday, April 8 Learn all about our environment through displays and exhibits, woodworking demos, a natural history tour, 4-H activities, interaction with farm animals, nature hikes, barn tours, a street market and more. Park admission of $1.50/person ages 6 and older, plus fees for certain activities. 10am-3pm, Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-357-8870

PLANT PALS Saturday, April 8 Join the fun and learn about recycling while making your own Soda Bottle Cat planter. $5. Space limited; reservations suggested. 3pm, Coral Springs Museum of Art, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs, 954-340-5000 csmart.org

BUTTERFLY GARDENING WORKSHOP Saturday, April 8 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, 954-977-4400

EARTH FEST Saturday, April 22 Stop by the nature center for wildlife exhibits, guided tours, children’s activities and more. 9am-1pm, Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital, 3000 Sportsplex Dr., Coral Springs, 954-344-1117

From fevers to free throws, we know kids We treat your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minor injury or illness so they can get back to feeling like a kid again.

Walk-in Urgent Care for Kids Available 7 Days a Week

12246 Miramar Parkway Miramar Square (near Kohlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Miramar, FL 33025 nicklauschildrens.org/Miramar

FREE FIRST THURSDAYS

STARRY NIGHTS PRESENTED BY

FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 4 – 8 PM 2-for-1 specials in the Museum Café, and hands-on art projects for all ages.

Tour the Museum and Create Artworks Inspired by Exhibitions on View Micro Mini Muse for ages 3 – 5 | 5:30 – 7:30 pm Mini Muse for ages 5 – 10 | 5:30 – 7:30 pm Drop-In Arts for Teens and Adults | 5 – 7 pm 954-525-5500 | nsuartmuseum.org One East Las Olas Boulevard Fort Lauderdale Educational programming and initiatives at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale are supported by major funding from the David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation, The Joseph & Winifred Amaturo Education Foundation, Inc., Lillian S. Wells Foundation Inc., Jerry Taylor & Nancy Bryant Foundation, Hudson Family Foundation, The Related Group, Beaux Arts, Community Foundation of Broward, Wells Fargo, the Wege Foundation, Charles F. and Esther M. Frye Foundation, PNC Foundation, MAI Foundation and Friends of NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale. Exhibitions and programs at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale are made possible in part by a challenge grant from the David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation. Funding is also provided by The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Nova Southeastern University, Hudson Family Foundation, Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council and Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. NSU Art Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

Free Events Hollywood Blvd. & US 1

apr. 8

saLsa FesTivaL 5 - 11pm

apr. 11

FuLL Moon druM circLe 7 - 9pm

apr. 15

PainT-For-Fun 7:30 - 9:30pm

apr. 15 & 16 apr. 16

La Orquesta de Melina Almodovar, Aymee Nuviola, Michelle Brava, Tito Puente, Jr., Marlon Fernandez scheduled to appear. Call 305-321-1087 for more information.

Bring a drum or percussion instrument to this guided drum circle. All skill levels welcome. Meet at Palm Court (West Side). Info: 954-926-0204

This FREE event just keeps growing and getting better thanks to your participation. Bring the family and kids. Meet new friends. We supply the canvas, paint, and brushes. larryjoemiller.com

in the Park

FREE ON-STREET PARKING

Mon Fri

Food Trucks aT arTsPark 5:30 – 9:30pm Bring your chairs, blankets and appetite. Over 20 different food trucks For more info: burgerbeast.com/arts-park

FunTasTic Friday 5 - 8pm WPLG Local 10 Top Places to Take the kids Free family fun featuring, face painter, bounce houses, interactive games & more!

Movie niGhT 8pm See a free family-friendly flick each week at the Amphitheater. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. 4/7 Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life (PG), 4/14 Hop (PG), 4/21 The Jungle Book-2016 (PG), 4/28 Big Hero (PG)

apr. 23

hoLLyWood heaLinG haiTi 1 - 5pm

Walking tours start at the 7th Day Adventist Church at 1808 Van Buren St. Call 954-362-3918 for more information.

apr. 23

GLoBaL MediTaTion For WorLd Peace 6 - 7:30pm

easTer MorninG cereMony 9am

apr. 30

sunday in The Park 12 noon - 5:30pm

easTer Passion PLay TiMes TBa

Presented by the 1st Baptist Church of Hollywood. Call 954- 922-3350 for more information.

FREE concert benefits Project Papillon Orphanage in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. hollywoodcares.net By directing our thoughts in specific, positive ways, we have the potential to guide the world towards becoming a more loving place. 954-962-7447 Presented by The Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Food & wine vendors, business expo, art, music, beer garden, and more. sundayintheartspark.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 954.921.3500 or www.hollywoodfl.org

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

| browardfamilylife.com

ÂŽ

EGG HUNT April 16 | 12 - 3 pm th

miamichildrensmuseum.org Miami Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Home Tech »

Clearthe Clutter

GIVE KIDS A REASON TO PART WITH THEIR POSSESSIONS BY CAROLYN JABS

aising kids creates clutter. Most families do regular sweeps to get rid of outgrown clothes and toys. And most have favorite places to take donations — the rummage sale at the church, the food pantry for the community, the drop off center for Goodwill. Some community organizations will even pick up the things you no longer need or want. To find one of these agencies, enter your zip code at donationtown.org. And then there are the things that are hard to give away. Perhaps they were expensive — think cellphones and car seats. Or perhaps they are sentimental — think trophies, stuffed animals, books and puzzles. Either way, you feel a twinge when you think about letting them go, so they get stuck in drawers and closets. The best solution is to find the right destination for these items like donating to someone who will appreciate them or getting them to a company or organization that can recycle them safely and perhaps creatively. Either way, parting with certain kinds of stuff can be easier if you go the extra mile. With the options listed below, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you made a responsible choice that clears the clutter for you and does something good for others. ATHLETIC AND OTHER SHOES: Soles4Souls.com has distributed over 30 million pairs of shoes since they were founded after Hurricane Katrina. You can purchase a mailing label or find a drop off site on their website. They also accept gently used clothing. InJacobsShoes.org is a local charity that collects gently used

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

and new shoes that are distributed to kids in Broward, Palm Beach and MiamiDade counties who need them for school, sports and play. OneWorldRunning.com sends still-wearable shoes to runners in developing countries. Anything that can’t be worn goes to the Nike-Reuse-A-Shoe program to be recycled into running tracks and playgrounds. Their website also includes drop-off locations in many parts of the country. BINDERS: At the end of the school year, most families have a stack of ragged binders. If you turn them in at Office Depot, Office Max or Staples, you’ll get a $2 credit toward a same day purchase of a new binder. They in turn recycle the binders with the help of Terracycle, a company that has partnered with major manufacturers to create innovative recycling programs for everything from toothbrushes and guitar

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strings to juice pouches and the blister packs from contact lenses. terracycle.com/en-US/brigades BOOKS: BetterWorldBooks.com has drop off boxes where they accept books of all kinds. Some are sold on their website and some go to literacy programs overseas. Broward County Library branches also accept a variety of used paperback and hardcover books, videos and CDs. Visit broward.org/library or call your local branch to see if they participate. CAR SEATS: A few organizations are trying to get used car seats into the hands of families that need them. A state-by-state list is available at recycleyourcarseat.org. CRAYONS: Crazy Crayons collects broken, worn or loose crayons. They will melt them down and turn them into new Eco Star crayons or multi-colored crayons shaped like worms. crazycrayons.com

CELLPHONES: Even after you’ve disconnected your phone service, the phone can be used to make 911 calls. Secure the Call takes advantage of this fact, collecting phones and then distributing them to senior citizens organizations, domestic violence shelters, police departments and other agencies that can get them into the hands of people who need them. Their website includes a free mailing label as well as a list of community partners in every state. securethecall.org EYEGLASSES: Lions International collects used eyeglasses as part of their effort to improve vision for people around the world. A list of their recycling centers is available at tinyurl.com/donateglasses. LEGOS: The plastic in Legos is a kind that can’t usually be recycled, so don’t mix them into the bin. Instead, ship them to Brick Recycler. No need to sort the bricks. They will repackage and get them to hospitals, schools, orphanages and other places where kids will be very happy to have them. brickrecycler.com MARKERS: Crayola collects markers of all kinds and turns them into a clean liquid fuel for vehicles. They pay for shipping via Fedex but your local school will have

to set up the collection system. crayola.com/colorcycle PROM DRESSES: Becca’s Closet gives away free prom dresses locally and around the country to girls who cannot afford them. Dresses of all styles and sizes can be dropped off at a nearby chapter. beccascloset.org PUZZLES: Puzzle Warehouse recycles old puzzles by donating them to schools, homeless shelters, churches and jails. If you’re pitching a puzzle because it’s missing a piece or two, they also have a helpful list of piece replacement policies for major puzzle manufacturers in the More section of their website. puzzlewarehouse.com/Recycle-Your-Puzzles STUFFED ANIMALS: StuffedAnimalsforEmergencies.org gets gently used stuffed animals into the hands of children and even service members who need a little comfort. Their website lists chapters in many parts of the country, and they also have advice about how to clean stuffed animals in preparation for donation. TROPHIES: Some companies that make trophies reuse the parts to make new trophies. If you can’t find a company

nearby, you might want to ship surplus trophies to the National Trophy Recycling program. Tinyurl.com/donatetrophies EVERYTHING ELSE: Freecycle runs a grassroots network made up of over 9 million members, organized into 5,298 local groups. Membership is free, and each group is moderated by a local volunteer. Once you sign up, you can list almost anything and, in all likelihood, it will be discovered by someone in your community who will be delighted to have it. freecycle.org Of course, you aren’t the only family that has stuff you want to discard. Many of the groups listed above provide everything you need to start a community collection drive — an activity that might double as a fundraiser or a community service project. Whether you donate on your own or with your neighbors, all of these programs do three important things: Keep useable stuff out of the local landfill, get things into the hands of people who can use them, and get all that clutter out of your house. That’s a win-win-win! Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids, and is the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart.

Group tickets start at $5!

Single tickets start at $7!

UPCOMING SMART STAGE MATINEES

Presented by

Where the Stories Are the Stars!

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile May 6 11am & 1pm

Enjoy complimentary pre-show art activities and post-show sweet treat provided by Hoffman’s Chocolates! The Broward Center 2016-2017 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation with generous support from the Salah Foundation.

Havana Hop! May 1

Amaturo Theater

Steve Trash

“The Science of Ecology” May 1 Parker Playhouse

The 2016-2017 SMART STAGE MATINEE SERIES is generously underwritten by JM Family Enterprises, Inc.

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

Group Sales

954.660.6307

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Family Health »

Tired Teens HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR ADOLESCENT’S SLEEP HABITS BY MALIA JACOBSON

oes your teen sleep through the morning alarm, zone out during the day and turn into a cranky pest by nightfall? Then you’re probably one of millions of parents living with an exhausted adolescent. The National Institutes of Health reports that many teens don’t get enough sleep, putting them at risk for health problems and poor academic performance. Why are teens so sleepy? During the teen years, shifting physiological patterns run smack-dab into the demands of adolescence. Teens’ changing bodies need more rest at a time when classes, homework, sports, jobs, relationships and electronic media all clamor for their attention. Though teens require at least as much sleep as they did in pre-adolescence (generally between 8.5 and 9.25 hours per night), they habitually shortchange their

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

sleep needs. By 19, they get an average of seven hours per night. In one study published in SLEEP, the official journal of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, 40 percent of teens went to bed after 11pm on school nights and 26 percent got fewer than 6.5 hours of sleep per night during the week. Teenage snooze-button addicts aren’t lazy, they’re reacting to a biological urge. According to SLEEP, teens experience a phase delay that keeps them up late and pushes them to sleep in. “This phase shift means that adolescents have a hard time adapting to early morning schedules, particularly in high school,” says Dr. Richard Seligman of the Presbyterian Sleep Disorders Center. Teens fatten up their anemic sleep schedules on weekends by snoozing nearly two extra hours. Instead of helping matters, this sleep windfall makes them feel worse by creating an irregular sleep pattern and a vicious cycle

| browardfamilylife.com

of fragmented and poor-quality sleep. Sleep-deprived teens are more likely to abuse stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, alcohol and other substances. According to scientific journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, lack of sleep heightens alcohol’s effects in teens, so sleepy teens who consume even small amounts of alcohol heighten their risk of injury. Problems can also pile up in the classroom and at home. Teens who get less sleep and have irregular sleep schedules report more academic problems than their better-rested peers. Tired teens may be moody and have more difficulty controlling their emotions. “Behavioral issues in this age group aren’t necessarily willful,” notes Seligman. “They can be brought on by chronic fatigue and unrecognized sleepiness.” Malia Jacobson is a freelance writer and the mom of two well-rested children.

Six Ways to Promote Healthy Rest: RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF SLEEP DEPRIVATION IN TEENS. Dozing off unexpectedly during quiet times, becoming irritable late in the day, difficulty waking in the morning, and sleeping more than two hours past regular wake-up time on weekends are all signs that a teen isn’t getting enough sleep. GET THEM OFF THE COUCH. Exercise makes falling asleep easier and promotes deep sleep, says Seligman. Encourage 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per day. Chores and family activities can get blood pumping; teens can walk the dog, rake leaves or vacuum, or join you on a brisk walk around the mall. MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT SLEEP SCHEDULE. Set an appropriate bedtime during the week, and enforce a curfew on weekends. If work or extra-curricular activities are interfering with sleep, talk with your teen about cutting down on commitments. REGULATE SCREEN TIME. Circadian rhythms and sleep quality can be disrupted by nighttime light, including the glare of a laptop or television. Set and enforce ‘media hours’ to control teens’ screen time at night. ENCOURAGE NAPS. Naps aren’t just for preschoolers — teens and young adults may benefit from a few daytime winks. A post-school snooze can provide extra energy for homework and evening activities. Just avoid late naps that might interfere with nighttime rest. MODEL GOOD SLEEP HABITS. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule and sleep when you’re tired. Talk about the importance of sleep and how great you feel after a full night of shut-eye. If improved habits don’t perk up your sleepy teen, consult a physician or sleep specialist. A treatable sleep disorder like sleep apnea or periodic limb movement disorder may be to blame. Getting to the root of sleep problems can turn an exhausted adolescent into a healthier, happier one, and put your teen on the road to a well-rested future.

TOWN OF DAVIE PRESENTS 2ND ANNUAL •Montessori Certified Infant/Toddler and Primary Teachers TheThe Nurtury Nurtury Montessori •Montessori Designed Infant environment (6 wks–18 mo. old) at Riverland Montessori Designed Toddler at Riverland •Montessori environment (18 mos–3 yrs old) •Montessori Designed Primary environment (3-6 years old)

•Organic, Nutritious lunches offered •Spanish & Portuguese lessons •Infant Massage•Art•Poetry •Music•Yoga•Gardening & more!

FESTIVAL OF THE AMERICAS

Saturday, April 22, 2017

Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4271 Davie Rd Free Festival: 3pm–6pm Rodeo: 6pm-10pm

•2, 3 or 5 morning, school day or full day programs available •Open 8am–6pm 12 months a year

3812 Riverland Rd, Fort Lauderdale

954-587-2285

www.thenurtury-montessori.com

EDUCATIONAL TESTING

Gifted Learning Disabilities ADHD Counseling

Food and Vendors from North, South, Central America and the Caribbean Kids Zone • Live Music

www.davie-fl.gov • Info: 954-797-1181

Lauren K. Cohn, Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist PY 3990 Comprehensive evaluation and treatment of your child in a warm, caring atmosphere. PSYCHOLOGICAL STRATEGIES, LLP 7500 N.W. 5TH Street, Suite 111, Plantation

954-584-6478

ADVERTISING SALES REP WANTED • Advertising experience required • Flexible hours • Work from home • Excellent earning potential This is the perfect opportunity that allows you to balance your job with your family life. For more information please call 954-424-7405 or email info@browardfamilylife.com

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Family Man »

A Brush with Truth F HONESTY IS SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT BY GREGORY KEER

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

ew issues have tried my parenting patience like dental hygiene. For two of my children, brushing their teeth has been something they viewed as optional because cleaning one’s teeth is a dull activity that doesn’t really make sense if the pearlies look white enough at the beginning or end of the day. It has also been a battle of control — they could rebel against Wendy and me by not attending to their mouths. With my eldest, we did everything possible to instill the practice, including brushing with him, employing a playful timer to make the ritual “fun,” using the tiny red dental tablets that identify the places with the most plaque, and threatening him with having to pay for dental visits, which had to be twice as often because the dentist himself was worried Benjamin’s mouth would fall apart. Eventually, what worked was girls, since he had suffered from horrible breath with poor hygiene, and regular care magically eliminated oral odors. I certainly do not advocate for rushing puberty along, but it kind of saved me from the battle of brushing with him.

| browardfamilylife.com

Then there’s my third child. He’s put us through similar paces as Benjamin, but he has done it with much more craftiness. He’d put a dab of paste on his tongue and exhale for me to prove he was minty fresh. He’d wet the brush so that, when I was in one of my frequent rushes, I would think he’d followed through with the responsibility. All the way up to his 12th birthday, Ari ducked and juked his way out of cleaning his teeth — and regularly lied about it. The lying was the bright line that lasered into me. Sure, I could hound my son to brush his teeth twice a day so that the little chewing tools could stay strong, however I could not understand why he could so easily lie to me. Was it so important to him to beat me at the game of cat and mouse that tooth brushing had become? So, this is where we took the matter

“You don’t have to lie, you know.” This made him pause. “But you get mad at me when I forget to brush.” This made me pause. “You’re right. I over-react. But I’d rather you forget to brush your teeth and tell me the truth.” He remains silent, turning over the reasoning in his head. “You understand why I get frustrated?” I continued. “I know, Dad. I keep making the same mistake.” “Yep, but lying is worse than making the tooth-brushing mistake.” “OK, I’ll tell the truth...But will you get mad?” “I am sorry for getting mad. That is something I will work to get right.” With that, he hugged me, which certainly helped my frustration. It also reminded me

deeper. Ari is truly one of the most compassionate human beings I know. He would not want to adversely affect the trust between us. So, two months ago, we had our best conversation on the subject yet. “Why do you not tell me the truth about brushing your teeth?” I asked. “I don’t know,” he replied in classical kid fashion.

that trust is every bit of that two-way street so often invoked in situations like this. For Ari to progress toward the value of telling the truth, he needed to know that I would indeed reward that with more calm. He also needed to see that, even as an adult who would prefer my children to know I mean business, I need to own my errors and model humility. After all, kids stretch

the truth in various ways from an early age. Sometimes, it’s to stay out of trouble, and sometimes it’s to hide a bigger worry they might have that they are afraid to discuss. It’s not that the years-long battle with tooth brushing wasn’t highly enervating for me. What was more at stake was an understanding that we both could agree to honesty and commitment to what we say we would do. Once we had the trust, we could focus on the tooth-brushing habit. Since then, Ari has forgotten to brush his teeth a bunch of times. Oh, joy. Occasionally, my patience cracks, but I’ve been much improved in how I react to his hygiene lapses. Instead, I praise him for his honesty, then send him to the sink to take care of his teeth. He’ll grouse a bit, but less so because he knows we have a trust pact. One day, probably sooner than I expect, he’ll go the way of his older brother and want to keep his mouth sparkling for somebody he likes. Then, I’ll wish for the carefree days when all I had to fret over was tooth brushing. Gregory Keer is a teacher, father of three sons and the founder of familymanonline.com.

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Summer of

Independence The Psychology of Sleep Away Camp BY HEIDI SMITH LUEDTKE, Ph.D.

Parents spend a lot of time trying to motivate kids. We use chore charts, checklists, reminders and rewards to get them to feed the dog, clean their rooms, and complete schoolwork. But these techniques don’t change behavior long-term. Real motivation must come from within.

ime at camp may be all it takes to spark a little self-determination in your kid. I know it sounds too good to be true. Your school-age slacker – the one who expects you to find his homework and pack his lunch – might start doing some things for himself. And your often-bored tween might come home with more pep in her step. Psychologists use self-determination theory (SDT) to explain why some experiences make us feel engaged and excited while others drain and deplete us. The premise is simple: when an activity meets our needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, we are energized and empowered. Kids’ basic needs are no different from adults’.

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

Kids want to do things for themselves. They crave a sense of accomplishment and routinely seek feedback. (“Look what I made, Mom!”) And kids thrive on connections with loved ones and peers. Feelings of belongingness boost their self-worth. Summer camp offers loads of opportunities to meet all these needs. And that should make kids (and the parents who love them) very happy campers indeed. AUTONOMY The need for autonomy is satisfied when kids control their own lives. At camp, your son will have endless opportunities to care for himself. Staff won’t select his clothes, organize the contents of his locker, or remind him to put on deodorant. No one

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will delay dessert until he eats his veggies. Independence is what camp is all about. Don’t worry. The world won’t stop if your son wears the same shirt three days in a row. His peers will speak up if he gets super stinky. During the school year, many kids jump from one regularly scheduled activity to the next with no unstructured time in between. Camp puts kids in charge of their own activities. Maybe your daughter will take a hike. Maybe she’ll paint pottery. Maybe she’ll write you an email. It is up to her to decide how she’ll spend her free time. One thing is certain: she won’t sit around whining about having nothing to do. And if she does, you won’t be there to hear it.

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

COMPETENCE The need for competence is satisfied when kids learn new things and get positive feedback about their efforts. Your kid might choose a camp focused on art, science, sports, or music. Or he may opt for a good old-fashioned sleep-away experience, complete with row boats and weenie roasts. Some camp activities may be outside your kid’s comfort zone. Stretching is good. Your child may be unsure she can cross the slippery log over the creek. She may tremble with excitement about her role in the theater production. Peers and counselors will coax her along and give constructive advice. By the end of camp, she’ll be the star of her own adventure stories. If your kid is an experienced camper, encourage him to share what he knows with newbies. Being an ambassador or mentor affirms kids’ competence in a big way. Teaching a peer how to trim a sail or chip a golf ball out of the tall grass will take your son’s skills to a higher level. His confidence will soar in response. RELATEDNESS Your biggest concerns about summer camp may center on the social scene. Your child may not know anyone on arrival. That’s okay. Camps create connections in many ways. Your kid will be instantly bonded with bunkmates because they share a home base. Family-style dining and friendly competitions encourage interaction, too. The pursuit of shared goals – like building a robot or putting a frog in the counselor’s sleeping bag – cements kids’ camaraderie. Extroverted kids may make lots of friends at camp. Less sociable souls may not. What matters most is that kids have opportunities to talk, play and live with a diverse group of peers. They won’t all become fast friends. Learning to navigate the choppy waters of friendship formation is a big part of the camp experience. Your kid’s social skillset will expand – even if she doesn’t find a new BFF. No matter what your kid takes to camp, he’ll come home with a suitcase full of memories and a renewed sense of selfdetermination. You’ll see it as soon as he wakes from his long post-camp nap.

10% Early Bird Discount until April 15th* • Canoeing • Archery • Fishing • Surfing • Paddle Boarding • Swimming

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• Mountain Biking • Starlight Sleepover • Hands on Science • Arts & Crafts • Ocean Quest

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• Spring Camp: Daily and Weekly rates • Summer Camp: Weekly & Session rates • Ages 5 to 16. Extended care, lunch, transportation available

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Fort Lauderdale 954-563-4880 • Miami 305-940-4748 FOR MORE DETAILS & ONLINE REGISTRATION

www.campliveoakfl.com April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

THE ADVENTURE AWAITS AT Y SUMMER CAMP! REGISTER FOR

SUMMER

CAMP TODAY!

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fun-filled adventure awaiting your child at the Y this summer. OUR CAMPS FEATURE: Adventure, Sports, STEM, Fitness camps and more Field trips and swim lessons No additional charges for pre & post care Value-based programming Locations across Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties

ymcasouthflorida.org/CAMP The Y. Building a Stronger South Florida

SUMMER FUN at Camp Nova for ages 5 - 17 Camp Activities Archery Arts and Crafts Cake Decorating Camp Olympics Cheerleading Dance

Digital Photography Engineering Field Trips Fun Fridays Halloween in July Magic Shows

Martial Arts Scavenger Hunts Sports Swimming Video Game Design Wacky Wednesdays

Specialty Camps Baseball Basketball C.I.T. Program Golf

Junior Lifeguard Lacrosse Marine Science Overnight

Soccer Teen Travel Tennis Theatre Volleyball

Summer Scholars This program gives both public and private school students the opportunity to enrich their summer with learning experiences in Reading, Mathematics, Foreign Language, Writing, and Language Arts within a challenging and supportive environment.

Camp Dates

June 12 – August 4 Two-Week Sessions Available Post Camp Sessions run from August 7 – 18 (daily field trips) Camp hours are: 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (before and after care available) Hot lunches and snacks are included.

APRIL 7 and receive

* 10% OFF *Plus 10% discount for each sibling

uschool.nova.edu | (954) 262-4528

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

summer

exploration camp

2017

AT NSU’S MAILMAN SEGAL CENTER, AGES 2–5

SUMMER EXPLORATION CAMP FEATURES

KINDERGARTEN EXPLORATION CAMP

u trained and experienced staff members

Designed for children who are entering kindergarten in the fall, this well-balanced program utilizes literacy-based activities to build upon, and further develop, the math, science, and reading skills children have acquired in pre-K.

u hands-on, age-appropriate activities and planned curricula with a focus on targeted learning objectives u science and nature, cooking, art, and music and movement u action-packed special events

For more information, please contact us at (954) 262-6918 or visit nova.edu/preschoolsummer. 01-029-17SAT

CAMP EXPLORERS:

PRESCHOOL SUMMER CAMP:

KINDERGARTEN – FIFTH GRADE

INFANT – PRE-KINDERGARTEN • Splash Days

• Daily Field Trips to local attractions such as Ninja Lounge,

• Thematic Hands-On Curriculum

Oﬀ the Wall, Rapids Water Park*,

• Cooking Art, and Science Projects

Parrot Jungle Island and more

• Face painters and more!

• Fun sport week to include Miami Heat Jam, Marlins Game and Florida Panthers Ice Tour

FOR INFANT – FIFTH GRADE

• Cooking, Art and Science projects

6/12-6/30

7/3-7/21

7/24-8/11

8/14-8/18

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THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS Coral Springs – Parkland 9675 Westview Drive Coral Springs, FL 33076 (954) 796-0081

Davie – Plantation 1305 SW 101st Road Davie, FL 33324 (954) 452-3346 For more information, please call or visit us today! creativechildlearningcenter.com

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

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Weston – Sunrise 150 Weston Road Sunrise, FL 33326 (954) 389-8245

SUMMER C AMPS CITY OF MIRAMAR 2017 REGISTER EARLY! SPACE IS LIMITED!

MIRAMAR TEEN CAMP

SPORTS CAMP

Children ages 6-12 learn the basics of different sports activities each week. All levels are invited to participate. Cost: $105 per week. • Miramar Youth Enrichment Center (CSC Grant location), 954-602-4780 #0 • Ansin Sports Complex, 954-602-4990 #0 • Sunset Lakes Community Center, 954-602-3340 #0

MIRAMARVELS CAMP

A traditional summer day-camp for children who have completed kindergarten through 5th grade. The summer will be filled with funthemed activities, field trips and more! Cost: $150 per week. 954-883-5230 Available at the following licensed centers: • Youth Center (Lic.45706) • Silver Shores (Lic.46021) • Sunset Lakes (Lic.16206)

This group of active 13 to16-year-olds will be getting together every Monday through Thursday to enjoy field trips and more at River Run Park. Cost: $125 per week. 954-602-3170

SUMMER SWIM CAMP

This camp is designed for children ages 6-12 who love to swim or want to learn to swim. Cost: $115 per week. 954-883-6955

M.O.S.T. CAMP

This camp, funded through the Children’s Services Council (CSC Grant), includes academic enrichment activities, physical fitness activities, nutrition education and healthy snacks. Please call the Center of your choice for more information, registration requirements and weekly camp fees. Registration begins Monday, March 20th at the camp location. • Fairway Park (Lic. 45833) 954-602-4797 • Miramar Youth Enrichment Center 954-602-4780

Fees listed are Residential rates. Non-Residents must add an additional 20% to all fees. Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

www.miramarfl.gov

JUMP START

INTO KINDERGARTEN SUMMER CAMP This camp offers a fun and educational program created to assist children in the transition from pre-school to kindergarten to keep children learning and engaged over the summer. Cost:$65 per week. 954-883-5230 Available at the following licensed centers: • Silver Shores (Lic.46021) • Youth Center (Lic.45706) • Sunset Lakes (Lic.16206) • Fairway Park (Lic.45833)

LITTLE BROADWAY

SUMMER CAMP This seven-week program is for children 8-14 years old that embraces the visual and performing arts and culminates with a public theater performance. Cost: $600 Residents | $700 Non-Residents • Miramar Cultural Center 954-602-4519

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE Special Spe cial

FREE EE FR SESS SSION SE call for ION details call for details

CAMP ATLANTIS SUMMER PROGRAM

June 12 - July 28 Free T-shirt Coupon Code:BLFM17TS

LANGUAGE

CAMP

A combination of summer fun and academics, for children 5-12 years June 19-August 4 • 8am-5pm ON AND OFF CAMPUS ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: • SWIMMING • SPORTS • MUSEUMS • ARTS & CRAFTS • SKATING • MOVIES

SPANISH-ENGLISH-FRENCH-NATIVE

• CAMP ATLANTIS –Full day recreational program • ACADEMIC ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM –1/2 day • ACADEMIC CAMP – Full day program including

/2 day academia and 1/2 day recreation

• MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSES/GRADE RECOVERY*

/2 day sessions

ACTIVITIES

*DAILY LANGUAGE CLASS Lab, sports, arts, cooking, pottery, outdoors, horses, dance, music & field trips, more OPEN HOUSE Apr. 27 & 29

SPECIALTY CAMP

BROWARD & MIAMI

July 31 – August 18

• HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT RECOVERY*–1/2 day sessions

ends this month!

SUMMER

SPRING

TUTORING

AFTER-CARE

(transportation available)

(954)642-CAMP

Life does not charge a fee to design your ad and will provide a maximum of 3 proofs for your review. Additional f. Should you desireJune a copy5of August your ad for 4, any2017 other use, there is a $50 fee. Please provide your credit card al proofs or a final high resolution PDF. • Games • Guest speakers • Local attractions • Much more!!

•Bible emphasis •Field trips •Ar ts and crafts •Spor ts •Music

Time

Weekly

Daily

Before Care

7am-9am

Camp Aftercare

9am-4pm 4pm-6pm

$100 $20

$25 $5

First Baptist Academy 2700 N. Palm Ave. Cooper City, FL 33026 fbcbroward.com 954-404-7706 info@fbcbroward.com

FULL PROGRAM: June 12th - August 4th $650 Resident / $675 Non-Resident SESSION A: June 12th - July 7th $340/$355 per child SESSION B: July 10th- August 4th $340/$355 per child

Grades K4 to 6th

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CORAL SPRINGS 11411 NW 56 Drive (954) 752-7571 MIAMI 9600 SW 107 Ave. (305) 271-9771 WEST PALM BEACH 1950 Prairie Rd. (561) 642-3100

www.atlantisacademy.com

Atlantis Academy does not discriminate against any applicant due to race, sex, religion or national origin.

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

Summer Art CAmp

2017

JuNe 5—AuG 18 9Am-5pm

CHOOSE FROM 6 DIFFERENT CAMPS! NEW! DRONE • ART EXPLORATION CERAMICS & SCULPTURE • FASHION DIGITAL ART & FILM • DRAWING & PAINTING

Save $100*

*when you register & pay in full for any 4 or more weeks or 10% off sibling discount Discount cannot be combined. *Offer expires May 5, 2017.

June June 12 12 -- August August 11, 11, 2017 2017

954-815-9054

Markham Markham Park Park State State Rd.84 Rd.84 & & Weston Weston Rd. Rd. Sunrise Sunrise

www.campchameleon.com www.campchameleon.com

See you for SPRING CAMP APRIL 10-21 For more information call to (954)424-5031 or email artinstitute@youngatartmuseum.org 7 5 1 S W 1 2 1 s t Av e n u e , D a v i e , F l o r i d a 3 3 3 2 5

www.youngatartmuseum.org

2017

See Your Child LIVE on the Big Stage! ★ 2 SESSIONS ★ AGES 7-18 ★ 3 LOCATIONS Broward Center for the Performing Arts Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

NEW LOCATION! Pembroke Pines City Center

2017 SUMMER CAMP LINE-UP Doctor Doolittle JR Music Man JR • Honk JR Cats • The Addams Family You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown For more information:

BrowardCenter.org/Camp PHONE: 954.414.6904

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

Where do I want to go this summer?

Checkout all of ASP’s Options!

CAMP

ASP

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE CHILDREN Camp ASP Enrichment AM Enrichment Activities

INSTRUCTED BY SCHOOL BOARD TEACHERS FROM EACH SCHOOL

PM Activity Schedule: 3 Trips per Week LOCATIONS Park Trails Elementary in Parkland Manatee Bay Elementary in Weston Foxtrail Elementary in Davie Mirror Lake Elementary in Plantation Winston Park Elementary in Coconut Creek

CAMP RENEGADE

Camp ASP On–Site

On-Campus Activities: 2 Trips per Week LOCATIONS Deerfield Beach Elementary in Deerfield Beach Chapel Trail Elementary in West Pembroke Pines Hollywood Central Tradewinds Elementary in Coconut Creek

Camp Renegade at CB Smith Park

DAILY FIELD TRIPS WITH NO ACTIVITY FEES! LOCATIONS Park Trails Elementary in Parkland Manatee Bay Elementary in Weston TY Park in Hollywood Alphabetland Preschool in Coral Springs Alphabetland Preschool in Margate Alphabetland Preschool in North Lauderdale

CAMPS OPEN 7:30AM –6:00PM • SERVING CHILDREN AGES 6 THROUGH13

(must have completed kindergarten)

For a full summer schedule or any other information, stop by your ASP program of give us a call! Corporate Offices: 1520 Powerline Road Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 954-596-9000 1-888-720-2882 www.aspkids.com www.camprenegade.com Licensed and insured. We do not discriminate against any child on the basis of religion, race, national origin, color, sex or handicap.

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT SUMMER CAMP?

CHECK OUT BROWARD FAMILY LIFE’S VIRTUAL CAMP FAIR Browse for day, overnight and specialty camps and view videos, photos and much more. Visit BrowardFamilyLife.com and start your search today! 42

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SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

Our goal is to teach kids basic Engineering and Computer Programming Skills including:

• Information & Media Literacy • Critical Thinking • Problem Solving • Interpersonal & Collaborative Skills

Spring Camp in Ft. Lauderdale & Plantation Summer Camp in Davie, FTL, Boca & Pembroke Pines Birthday Parties & Special Events Ongoing Afterschool & Saturday Programs STEAM Electives K-12

954-816-3346

www.BrightAndSmart.com

EARLY CHILDHOOD (Ages 3-5)

ASK ABOUT THESE SPECIALTY PROGRAMS VPK and Academic Programs

• Montessori Academic Enrichment • Weekly Gymnastics • Special Events and Visitors • On-Campus Sports and Water Activities • 2-Week Spanish Immersion

Swimming Lessons Basketball Camp with Kingdom Pros

ELEMENTARY CAMP (Ages 6-10)

Videography Camp

• Basketball, Kickball, Volleyball Flag Football, Swim, and More! • Creative Arts/Science Experiments • Special Guests- Magicians & Mind Labs • Weekly Field Trips!

Spanish Immersion for Pre-k and Kindergarten

SQ MS

BOCA MUSEUM ART SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

BOCA MUSEUM

ART SCHOOL

SUMMER CAMP So much fun kids don’t know they’re learning!

Reach Your Target Audience Advertise your program in our March and April May and June summer camp special sections

For more information please call 954-424-7405 or email

info@browardfamilylife.com

Cartooning, painting, sculpting, drawing and indoor active play Art projects geared to age groups: 5 to 7, 8 to 10, 11 to 12 years Boca Museum Art School 801 West Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton, FL 33486

Cartooning, painting, sculpting, drawing, and active play www.bocamuseum.org/artschool

So much fun kids don’t know April 2017 they’re learning!

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HOW TO SUBMIT CALENDAR LISTINGS

Please e-mail listing information to calendar@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.

AprilEvents

It’s Showtime!

NATURE FUN Nature Tots

TUESDAYS, APRIL 4 & 18 AND THURSDAYS, APRIL 13 & 27

MATILDA THE MUSICAL

Explore nature through stories, songs, arts and crafts and more. Ages 2-4. $5. Parental participation and pre-registration required. •April 4, 10am-noon, MIRAMAR PINELAND, 3600 S. University Dr., Miramar, 954-357-8776 •April 13, 10-11am, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198 •April 18, 9-10am, WEST LAKE PARK, 1200 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161 •April 27, 10-11am, SECRET WOODS NATURE CENTER, 2701 W. State Rd. 84, Dania Beach, 954-357-8884

Polliwogs

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

Preschoolers can explore the great outdoors through simple investigations, exploratory hiking, stories, crafts, games and more. Ages 3-5. $5. 9:30-11am, HILLSBORO PINELAND NATURAL AREA, 5591 NW 74 Place, Coconut Creek, 954-357-5100

Disney on Ice: Worlds of Enchantment THURSDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 30-APRIL 2 & WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 5-9

See characters from Frozen, Toy Story, Cars and The Little Mermaid at this ice-skating spectacular. Tickets start at $16. •March 30-April 2, BB&T CENTER, One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, thebbtcenter.com •April 5-9, AMERICAN AIRLINES ARENA, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, aaarena.com

The House at Pooh Corner

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

Let Piglet, Tigger, Christopher Robin and lovable Winnie-the-Pooh lift your spirits with this charming production. $16-$18. 11am & 1pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 browardcenter.org

Drumline Live SUNDAY, APRIL 2

A performance combining dazzling choreography with explosive percussion, hip-hop, American soul, gospel and jazz music. $37.50-$75. 7pm, PEMBROKE PINES CITY CENTER, 601 SW City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, pembrokepinescitycenter.org

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

Miami City Ballet SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 8-9

The spectacular Miami City Ballet dancers present Program 4. $20-$189. Saturday 8pm, Sunday 2pm. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, miamicityballet.org

Star Stories SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Learn about constellations and the myths and folktales they are named after during this interactive shadow puppet and storytelling performance. $8/adult, $6/child. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW THEATRE AT SUGAR SAND PARK,

300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3948 willowtheatre.org

Aida OPENS THURSDAY, APRIL 20

Award-winning musical chronicling an epic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal. $47-$60. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave.,

Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 browardcenter.org

The Frog Prince SATURDAY, APRIL 22

An enchanting puppet show based on the classic fairy tale. Free. 1:30 & 3pm, WESTON COMMUNITY CENTER, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 westonfl.org

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Popovich Comedy Pet Theater SATURDAY, APRIL 22

A circus extravaganza with a group of talented dogs and cats in the spotlight. $40-$50. 1pm & 4pm, AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER,

Preschool Play ’n’ Learn THURSDAY, APRIL 13

Preschool children investigate the natural world with hands-on activities. Pre-registration required. Ages 3-5. $5. 10-11am, LONG KEY NATURE CENTER,

3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797

3385 NE 188 St., Aventura, 305-466-8002 aventuracenter.org

Science Eye Nature Program

Girl Choir

Science Eye presents fun-filled activities tied to the nature of Everglades Holiday Park. This month: learn about alligators and crocodiles and then make your own gator and croc snout. 9-11am, EVERGLADES HOLIDAY PARK, 21940 Griffin Rd., Fort Lauderdale, scienceeye.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

The talented singers of the Girl Choir perform a free concert. Included with paid admission of $29.95/adult, $21.95/child. 1pm, BUTTERFLY WORLD, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-977-4434 butterflyworld.com

Matilda the Musical OPENS TUESDAY, APRIL 25

Watch as Matilda, an extraordinary girl armed with a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. $33 and up.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Shutterbug Photo Hunt SUNDAY, APRIL 16

Participate as a family in a Nature Photography 101 class followed by a photo hunt. Bring home a hand-crafted nature frame to display your best shot. $10/team. Pre-register one week prior to the event. 2:30-4:30pm, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER,

BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 browardcenter.org

Survivor Island

Little Red Riding Hood WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

Puppets to Go presents an all-new twist on this classic. Recommended for children ages 3-8, with caregiver. Free. 10:30-11:15am, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY,

3310 Ray Ferrero Jr., Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Could you survive on a tropical island? Learn basic survivor skills with naturalists at Deerfield Island Park, which is accessible only by boat, then compete in some fun challenges. Closed-toe shoes required. Ages 8 & up; $8/ tribe member. Free boat shuttle departs at 9am from Pioneer Park. 9am-noon, DEERFIELD ISLAND PARK, 1720 Deerfield Island Park, Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Fort Lauderdale Pizza Festival

Pines Day

Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo

Save your appetite for an event featuring local and national pizza brands, art and entertainment, live cooking demos, a family-friendly kid zone and pizza eating competition. 1-6pm, WAR MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM, 800 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale, fortlauderdalepizzafestival.com

A fun-filled hometown birthday celebration with entertainment, a Royal Court Pageant, stroller parade, live music, children’s rides, games and more. The event recognizes the city’s 57th birthday. Noon-6pm, PINES CITY CENTER, 10300 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, 954-392-2116 ppines.com

An expo for those who love the ocean, with marine artists, guest speakers, and exhibitors of freediving, spearfishing, scuba diving and underwater photography. $20/day. BROWARD COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER, 1950 Eisenhower Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, thebluewild.com

Worldfest

Festival of the Americas

Pompano Beach Seafood Festival

Multi-cultural entertainment and cuisine that salutes the diverse cultures in the Coral Springs area. Free admission, $3/parking. 11am-6pm, CORAL SPRINGS SPORTSPLEX, 2575 Sportsplex Dr., Coral Springs, 954-344-1063 coralsprings.org

Fun-filled day of international food, live music, vendors and family-friendly activities starting at 12:30pm, followed by a Bulling Riding Rodeo. Festival is free, rodeo and concert is $22/adult, $10/child. BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS, 4271 Davie Rd., Davie, 954-797-1181 davie-fl.gov

Lip-smacking event with food, arts and crafts, activities and a full lineup of musical entertainment. ALONG POMPANO BEACH, Pompano Beach, pompanobeachseafoodfestival.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

SUNDAY, APRIL 2

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 22-23

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Great American Clean Up SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Join other families for a beach or mangrove clean up organized by the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. Kids welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration required. 8-11am, SPANISH RIVER PARK, 3001 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-544-8615 gumbolimbo.org

Broward AWARE Fair SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Family fun and resource fair with games, raffles, entertainment, refreshments and more. 10am-3pm, SAMUEL DELEVOE PARK, 2520 NW Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-377-1119

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 28-30

Amazon Adventure Weekend SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 29-30

A weekend of hands-on activities about the animals and landscape of the Amazon including a camouflage animal show, make your own DNA bracelet and more. Free with regular admission of $16/adult, $13/child. Noon-4pm, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St, Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-6637 mods.org

Community Activities April Pool’s Day

Family Art Funday

Make a splash with pool fun, music, entertainment, water safety activities, real-time scenarios and demonstrations, and resources to help make your home water-safe. Free. Noon-4pm,

Join the fun and make your own artistic creation. $5. Space limited; reservations suggested. 3pm, CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs, 954-340-5000 csmart.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

MULLINS PARK POOL,

10180 Ben Geiger Dr., Coral Springs, coralsprings.org/watersafety

Sunday Jazz Brunch SUNDAY, APRIL 2

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. ESPLANADE PARK, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, fortlauderdale.gov

First Friday Jams

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

Mayor’s Jazz Picnic in the Park SUNDAY, APRIL 9

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and snacks to enjoy a free outdoor concert. 10:30am-2:30pm, LIEBERMAN BOTANICAL GARDEN AMPHITHEATRE,

3801 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill, lauderhill-fl.gov

Concert in the Park THURSDAY, APRIL 13

Music, food and family fun on the second Thursday of the month. 6pm,

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

OLD DAVIE SCHOOL BANDSHELL,

Music students can bring their instruments and join the pros of the Gold Coast Jazz Society for an oldfashioned jam session. Free. 7:309:30pm, ARTSERVE, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-524-0805 goldcoastjazz.org

6650 Griffin Rd., Davie, davie-fl.gov

Home Grown Concert FRIDAY, APRIL 7

1100 Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-545-6620 coconutcreek.net/events

All Aboard!

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 15-16

Hop on the model steam train rides on a half-mile track around a lake. Riders under 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult. $1.50/ride. 10am-4pm, TRADEWINDS PARK, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-357-8870

Food Truck Invasion

BOULEVARD & POMPANO BEACH BOULEVARD, Pompano Beach,

Design Nation

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, APRIL 22-23

Put on your engineering hat and build a contraption to protect an egg from being smashed to bits, construct a city out of cardboard and design an amazing paper and tape tower. Free with regular admission of $16/adult, $13/child. Noon-4pm, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE,

401 SW Second St, Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-6637 mods.org

Tunes ‘N Trucks FRIDAY, APRIL 28

Grab dinner from the food trucks, then kick back on your blankets or lawn Bring your appetite and try out a variety chairs to enjoy this monthly concert series. Food trucks begin serving at 6pm, of foods from a lineup of food trucks. 5-9:30pm, BRIAN PICCOLO PARK, 9501 music starts at 7pm. SUNRISE CIVIC Sheridan St., Cooper City, broward.org CENTER, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, 954-747-4600 sunrisefl.gov WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19

Parents Night Out FRIDAY, APRIL 21

Kids can explore the museum, create art, play games, watch movies and participate in lots of after-hours fun. Music Under the Stars Ages 5-12. $40/non-member, $35/ FRIDAY, APRIL 14 member. 6-11pm, YOUNG AT ART Enjoy the ocean breezes during this MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, evening of music under the stars offered the second Friday of the month. 954-424-0085 youngatartmuseum.org 7-9pm, The “Great Lawn”, ATLANTIC

954-786-4111 pompanobeachfl.gov Bring blankets and lawn chairs to this outdoor concert featuring 80s music by The Crush. Free. 7pm, COCONUT CREEK Movie in the Park COMMUNITY CENTER BAND SHELL,

at sundown. Free. COCONUT CREEK COMMUNITY CENTER, 1100 Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-545-6698 coconutcreek.net/events

Moonlight Movie In the Park

FRIDAY, APRIL 28

Tap into your creative juices by trying your hand at a make and take craft. Free. 11am-2pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY, 3310 Ray Ferrero Jr., Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

WANT MORE FUN?

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch a screening of The Secret Life of Pets under the stars. 8pm, WESTON FRIDAY, APRIL 14 Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 westonfl.org a screening of Toy Story. Movie begins

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.

Crafternoon at the Library

See our Spring Celebration events on page 14 or check our extensive online calendar at browardfamilylife.com

April 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Words of Wisdom »

Down to the Wire M

y kids had a four-day weekend last week. On Friday after school, I asked everyone if they had homework or anything I needed to sign or write checks for. The answer was a unanimous “No!” Hoorah! We put away the backpacks and went on with our busy weekend. Enter Wednesday morning.

A FAMILY TRAIT TO PROCRASTINATE BY PAM MOLNAR

Three exhausted kids drag themselves through their morning routine. Thirty minutes before my 14-year-old daughter had to leave, she finds me at my computer. “Mom, can you take a quick survey?” I look up at her, not sure if I heard her right. “Is this homework?” I ask her with raised eyebrows. “Well, sort of….but it’s really easy.” She smiles back and I shake my head at her. She reads the directions out loud. “What is your definition for….” She rattles off a bunch of terms like the American Dream, Struggle and Coming of Age. I shoot her a look as if to say “You have got to be kidding.” I grab the paper and read the directions myself. She was supposed to contact an older person (and she picked me) over the weekend and interview them about these things. I went into a tirade about how she had all weekend to do this assignment and waited until the morning it was due. I threw up my hands and told her she was on her own. “Could you at least sign it?” she asked me. I took the paper back and scribbled my name at the bottom and told her I was never doing that again. As she was walking out of the room, my 12-year-old daughter walked in. “Mom, you need to sign this so I can turn it in today,” she said while handing me an opened envelope addressed to “The Parents of…” I covered my face with my hands and took a deep breath.

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

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“Why didn’t you give this to me on Friday?” She gave me a shoulder shrug as an answer followed by “I don’t know. I guess I forgot.” As my face got red from biting my tongue she continued, “It’s no big deal. They just want you to check our address and stuff for registration.” I know this because my son gave me the same form last week. After a quick

read, I signed it and handed it back to her. I gave her the Never Again speech before she headed out to the bus. Our house is usually quiet after my daughters leave for the bus. My 10-yearold son stopped in the kitchen on his way up to take a shower. I smiled at him, as I looked up from my computer, grateful that he is more on top of his paperwork. My smile faded as I looked at the pink paper in his left hand. “Mom, can you sign this so I can turn it in this morning?” Was he kidding? When I took the sheet from him, I saw that it was a letter about the Parent-Teacher conference that took place the day before. Thankfully, she did not want to see me. It was just a form letter telling me we did not need to have a conference. Ironically, there was a handwritten note on the bottom telling me how responsible he was in class. Like most things with the youngest child, I was tired of hearing myself give the Never Again speech and shortened it up to a less emotional version. I sighed loudly after my son left for school that morning as I wondered where my kids learned to be such procrastinators. My phone vibrating on the table next to me broke my thoughts. It was a reminder that read, “Article Deadline 2:00.” Oops! I better get started on that now. Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She hopes that procrastination is not the only trait her children inherit from her.

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