Broward Family Life January 2018 by Broward Family Life

COMPLIMENTARY

JANUARY 2018

finding

FITNESS

ONE MOMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LIFE-CHANGING QUEST TO GET HEALTHY

DISCOVER

NATURE OUTDOOR FUN FOR EVERYONE

LOST&

FOUND TRACKING YOUR KIDS WITH GPS DEVICES

Anaiah

who has asthma

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, Anaiah’s mom trusted the Emergency Department at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital to diagnose and treat her during a severe asthma attack. When it matters most for your child, trust the team of experts in pediatric emergency medicine at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

Visit JDCH.com to find a pediatric ER near you.

THERE IS A PLACE Boca Raton FOR KIDS WITH Now open! EXCEPTIONAL NEEDS With 5 clinics in South-Florida, Therapies 4 Kids is the leader in pediatric intensive therapy for children with neurological and developmental disorders, such as Cerebral Palsy or Autism, or suffering injuries resulting from a car accident, sport practice, or a slip & fall.

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Create your

HEALTHY this New Year YOUR GO-TO

FOR SURGERY

When you need any type of surgery, turn to the experts at HCA East Florida Hospitals of Broward County. Our experienced surgeons are ready to help you live your life to the fullest again, as quickly as possible. To speak to a registered nurse 24/7 or for a FREE physician referral, call Consult-A-NurseÂŽ at 954.724.6349. Visit HCAEastFlorida.com for average ER wait times.

24/7 Kid-Friendly Care

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HAPPENING IN

MIRAMAR

CANDLE LIGHT VIGIL FOR VICTIMS OF HAITI EARTHQUAKE January 12, 2018 | 7PM-10PM Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark 2400 Civic Center Place

To request a ticket voucher visit MiramarCulturalCenter.org/VIP or call 954-602-4500

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONCERT February 3, 2018 | 6PM-9PM Miramar Cultural Center 2400 Civic Center Place

OpĐ˝ HHH

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2018 2:00PM Enjoy a tour of our campus and learn about our high quality instruction and individualized student exploration through academics, fine arts, athletics, and character development. Apple Distinguished School Character and Leadership Development Program International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Advanced Placement Courses Ad Expert College Advisors Innovative Collaborations with MIT and The Juilliard School

7600 Lyons Road | Coconut Creek, FL 33073 | www.nbps.org

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2018 2:00PM Please join us for a campus tour. PK3-12th Grade PLEASE RSVP: 954-247-0179

contents

JANUARY 2018

DISCOVER

NATURE The great outdoors is more than just enjoyable — it’s good for you, too! Here are some cool happenings to get you out and about in our winter wonderland.

COVER ANGELS It’s the big reveal of winners and runners-up for 2018, along with our Charity of the Year.

HEALTHY COMPETITION

One mom’s life-changing quest for fitness — with a little help from her friends.

HOMEWORK HELPER 10 ways to help your kids get it done right.

SMART CHOICES

Our annual special section helps you find the local schools, activities and educational programs that are just right for you and your children.

DEPARTMENTS

Accounting Work Got You Frustrated ?

12 Broward and Beyond News about the people, places and events in our community. This month: MODS starts the year off right with new kid-friendly exhibits sure to illuminate and delight.

26 Home Tech The ins and outs of GPS child-tracking devices.

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

46 Words of Wisdom If eye-rolling were an Olympic event, this mom’s teen is bringing home the Gold.

We Provide

Stress-Free Accounting Services What do we do? Book Keeping Bank Reconciliation Cash Flow Forecast Budget Forecast Sales Analysis Expense Tracking Month-end Closing End of Month Financials IRS Tax Filing Specializing in: Construction Accounting Dental/Doctors Barber & Beauty Shops Mechanic Shops Pet Groomers

File Your TAXES in 2 Easy Steps

Let’s Work Together Alexander Galindo (954) 618-9509 AGalindo@AskMyAcountant.Net www.AskMyAccountant.Net

n d u s o S V of theV Town

TOWN OF DAVIE’S NEW CONCERT SERIES

BROWARD FAMILY FAVORITE AWARDS

2017 AWARDS

New Year, New Contest This year, we’re refining our BFF contest with an enhanced voting process to expand the field of favorites. Nominations are due by January 21. Vote online at browardfamilylife.com beginning February 15. All online voting ends March 15.

Bergeron Rodeo Grounds Friday, January 12, 2018 • 6:00-10:00pm FREE Admission Live Music • Food Trucks Kids Activities • Adult Game Zone

One lucky voter will be randomly selected to receive a Google Home, valued at $129. See page 43 for more information.

For information 954-797-1181 or visit www.davie-fl.gov January 2018 | 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 CALENDAR EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Beach • Carolyn Jabs Malia Jacobson • Gregory Keer Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Anina Venuti ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Rose Hernandez CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carrie B. Weeks PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Toni Kirkland 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 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 and Beyond

Monkeys, Doggies and … New Exhibits Get Inside the World of Animated Characters A couple of the best furry friends a little kid can have are bringing their animated worlds to life at the Museum of Discovery and Science this month. Clifford The Big Red DogTM and Curious GeorgeTM will each host their own exhibits full of interactive, imaginative and illuminating fun from Jan. 20 through May 6. And a new permanent exhibit breathes life into learning about lungs.

New Tricks From an Old Dog Inspired by Scholastic Entertainment’s TV show Clifford The Big Red Dog on PBS KIDS, the exhibit offers numerous immersive “paws-on” adventures that reinforce “Clifford’s Big Ideas.” His 10 simple lessons are designed to help young children Share, Play Fair, Have Respect, Work Together, Be Responsible, Be Truthful, Be Kind, Believe in Yourself, Be a Good Friend and Help Others. Clifford, of course, outgrew all the other dogs because of his owner Emily Elizabeth’s limitless love. They and their friends Cleo, T-Bone and Mac live on Birdwell Island, which young children can explore through individual and group interactions designed just for them. The exhibit engages the youngsters right from the start, as they board the ferry and try their hand at “steering” it to Birdwell with the help of a three-dimensional map of the island. There, they can visit all of Clifford’s favorite places, each offering its own hands-on activity. For instance, at Samuel’s Fish and Chips Shack, kids can grab a pad, take food orders and total the bill at the cash register. A 9-foot Clifford greets visitors outside his backyard doghouse, where children can take a seat on the crimson canine’s giant paws and slide down his tail. Or “Be Responsible” by helping fill his big bowl with bones using a bone-shaped conveyor belt. Or dress up in Cleo, T-Bone or Clifford costumes and take the stage in Emily Elizabeth’s Backyard Theater, where they can create their own performance with maracas and drums for an audience of family and friends sitting on bone-shaped benches. Also, the Birdwell Island Library offers less-active adventures with a collection of Clifford books, and at the Norman Bridwell Art Retrospective, visitors can watch an interview with Clifford’s creator, Norman Bridwell, and browse artwork for an inside look at the big dog’s development during the past 50 years.

Breathing Life into Learning OK, take a deep breath. Now hold it. Keep holding. How long can you go? A minute? Two? There’s a lesson there about the lungs. You may be able to survive a few days without water and a few weeks without food — but you can only make it a few minutes without a lung-full of oxygen. One of our most important organs, the lungs give the body the oxygen it needs to function properly. And a new permanent exhibit at the Museum of Discovery and Science is giving the organ its due. The Powerful Lung Exhibit, which opened last month, teaches visitors about the anatomy and physiology of the lungs and about the importance of keeping them healthy. The exhibit also shows how personal choices impact lung performance, as well as how COPD, asthma, and pneumonia impact lung function. Because the lungs play a central role in our bodies’ health, the Fort Lauderdale museum is showcasing the new exhibit at the center of its Powerful You! Exhibit. The other Powerful You! zones — Powerful Team, Powerful Pulse, Powerful You and The Cutting Edge — highlight the tools used by health professionals. Visitors can use robots to conduct simulated surgery, drive a DUI simulator, learn how to stay heart healthy and test their flexibility, balance and heartbeat.

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Lungs? Oh, My!

Let’s Get Curious Curiosity may have killed the cat, but for one little animated monkey, it’s been a way of life for 65 years. And in this exhibit, Curious George will inspire young children’s own natural curiosity as they explore early science, math and engineering through hands-on play. The exhibit is based on the characters in H.A. and Margret Rey’s classic stories and popularized in the PBS KIDS TV series, which recently received its first Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Children’s Animated Program. In the neighborhood where Curious George and his friend, The Man with the Yellow Hat, live in an Apartment Building, kids can climb the fire escape or operate wheels to move the monkey on pulleys from window to window. At the Construction Site they can use machines to move building materials, and at the Sidewalk Produce Stand they can play customer or salesperson and explore shape, sorting, weighing and counting with fruit and vegetables. A full-size Curious George is ready for hugs and pictures in the City Park. There are also three holes of miniature golf to experiment with physics and engineering and the Farm to build a whirligig or windsock and care for animals. At the Museum Within the Museum, visitors can learn new things about the beloved monkey, such as the escape from France during World War II that saved his creators’ Curious George manuscript.

Win a Family 4-pack to

MONSTER JAM

Feb. 17-18 at Marlins Ballpark

Go to BrowardFamilyLife.com Deadline to enter is midnight, January 31, 2018

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

RE AD ER S’

CH OI CE

Introducing the winners of Broward Family Life’s 2018 Cover Angels Contest. Watch for these adorable faces on our cover in the coming year. We are pleased to recognize our Charity of the Year as Family Central, which will receive all the proceeds from this year’s contest.

Harlan Burk, 3 yrs.

Nicolle Claros-Triana, 13 yrs.

Zahira Clemetson, 7 yrs.

Anthony Dara, 10 yrs.

Amanda Nunez, 4 yrs.

Conner Rothenberger, 4 yrs.

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RUNNERS UP

Gianna Marie Gabriel, 10 mos.

CJ Paredes, 9 yrs.

Sara Hernandez, 4 yrs.

William Hutchinson, 4 yrs.

Chloe St. Ange, 2 yrs.

Michael Zapata, 5 yrs.

Gabriel Klein, 6 yrs.

Mila Zapata, 5 yrs.

It’s a Family Affair CHARITY OF THE YEAR For being a leader in the education of young children and the promotion of strong families, Family Central has been selected as Broward Family Life’s Charity of the Year. For more information on the agency, visit www.familycentral.org

he 4-year-old boy didn’t want to wash his hands. When his day care teacher insisted, he got so angry that he threw a chair at her and then ripped all the children’s artwork off the walls. The boy was being raised by his 77-year-old grandmother in Coral Springs because his mother was in jail and his father’s whereabouts were unknown. Worried and wanting to help, a clergyman contacted Family Central and spoke to Dr. Barbara Weinstein, the agency’s president for more Dr. Barbara Weinstein than 31 years. “The grandmother was afraid that we were going to take the child away, and we said, no, we would work with her,” says Weinstein. “We had the child evaluated, and he ended up having autism. And we’ve worked with this grandmother now for almost the last two years, making sure that she has the services she needs to take care of this child.” Weinstein, a Broward resident, remembers another Family Central success story, one that hit a little closer to home. About four years ago, her then-13-year-old grandson, Matthew, was handing out holiday toys at a child-care center when he encountered a 4-year-old whose mother just weeks earlier had shot herself in his presence. Matthew was deeply moved at learning of this. “He called me that night and said, ‘I know I’m only a teenager, Grandma, but I think I can do something.’” continued on page 16

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Family Central’s Kicks for Kids event, one of several it holds to help 50,000 low-income children and families each year.

continued from page 15

What he did, with his sister, Amanda, and some friends was start the agency’s Teen Advisory Board, which has grown to about 30 kids who plan and carry out several service projects and fundraising events each year. With offices in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties, Family Central each year helps more than 50,000 low-income, at-risk or otherwise vulnerable children and families, as well as teachers. “It’s very important to me to keep children safe,” says Weinstein. “Our goal is to make sure that children reach their potential and their dreams.” Family Central does that by providing low-income working families with various support and educational programs ranging from feeding young children to nurturing their parents. It’s also broadening its reach with a computer-based training program for early-childhood education that went online in late November. One of the programs that Weinstein is most excited about is Home Instruction for

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Parents of Preschool Youngsters. Through HIPPY, as it’s called, mentors visit the homes of children and educate parents on how to be their child’s first teachers. “They bring programs with them every week for the parents to work with their children — academics, how to read to your children, how to discipline them. Parents are usually in the program two to three years and the success rate has been wonderful. It gives parents the strength to be their child’s advocate when the child goes to school.” When you ask Weinstein what drives her to remain so dedicated to this work now into her late 60s, she takes you back three decades to a conversation that opened her eyes to the plight of those less fortunate than she. “I’m a very fortunate woman,” she says. “I had a wonderful set of parents. I have a wonderful husband. I have two kids who are adults now and have children of their own. And when I first took the job 32 years ago, I was talking with a very amazing woman by the name of Vendree Pickett, who ran a childcare center in Pompano Beach.

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“It had a huge hole in the bathroom ceiling. She said it was a lucky thing that the water dripped into the bathtub instead of all over the floor. She was the kind of lady that when she couldn’t make payroll, she would make sandwiches out of her own pocket and sell them so she could raise the money to pay her teachers. “She said something to me that day that I will never forget if I live to be a thousand. We were talking about raising boys — I had two young boys at the time — and about how tough it is sometimes to raise them. And I said, ‘Oh, I absolutely understand.’ And she said to me, ‘No, you don’t.’ I looked at her and said, ‘What do you mean?’ “And she said, ‘If your children are hungry, you can feed them. If they need a pair of sneakers, you can buy it for them. If they’re sick, you can take them to the doctor.’ “She changed my life because for the first time I realized that there was another side that I didn’t know about. She absolutely gave me the strength to move forward and to do what was right for children.”

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SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, February 17, 2018

10am-3pm at Flamingo Gardens, Davie

Register online by February 15th at Click BrowardFamilyLife.com here to register online by to FREE receive February 17 for Admission or you mayFREE registerAdmission at the expo for 1/2 price admission to Flamingo Gardens. Rain or Shine

PET EXPO SATURDAY FEB. 10 • 12PM - 3PM NO CHARGE FOR RESCUES* (LIMITED TO THE FIRST 20 RESCUES) *$30 AFTER FIRST 20. Vendor registration fee: $30 or $60 after 1/26/2017. For more information or to print an application please visit: www.pompanociticentre.com. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to discover great stores, delicious restaurants, and special events!

www.pompanociticentre.com

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

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• PRIZE GIVEAWAYS FOR TWO LEGGED AND FOUR LEGGED ATTENDEES • VALENTINE'S DAY PET KISSING BOOTH FROM 99.9 KISS COUNTRY • PET BAR & PLAYGROUND • PET COSTUME CONTEST

FREE FIRST THURSDAYS

STARRY NIGHTS PRESENTED BY

FREE ART MUSEUM ADMISSION THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 4 – 8 PM 2-for-1 specials in the Museum Café, Tour the museum and create artworks inspired by exhibitions on view Every First Thursday. Join us February 1 also. 954-525-5500 | nsuartmuseum.org One East Las Olas Boulevard Fort Lauderdale

60th Anniversary presented by

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, BBX 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.

©Disney

Produced by: ®

Disney character live appearances are not part of the exhibit.

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.

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Healthy One mom’s life-changing quest for fitness — with a little help from her friends By Sandi Haustein

hen I was in college, I was the skinny girl who could eat whatever she wanted and not gain a pound — bottomless chips and queso, huge bowls of pasta, bloomin’ onions — you name it, I ate it.

But 10 years, three pregnancies and three dress sizes later, I struggled with my self-image for the first time in my life. My overeating and obsessive soda-drinking were damaging my body, but I didn’t know how else to deal with the grief. I needed to exercise, but in my depression, the last thing I wanted to do was put on my running shoes. I couldn’t start eating better, losing weight and feeling healthier unless I made a change, but I knew that I didn’t have it in me to do it alone. I decided to develop a competition with friends who wanted to not only lose weight but build lifelong healthy habits. I came up with a list of rules, hoping for three or four women to join me in accountability. To “qualify” for my competition, participants had to be at least 20 pounds overweight and willing to donate $10 towards a prize pot. Over a period of 15 weeks, we would earn daily points for drinking 8-10 glasses of water, eating six servings of fruits and vegetables, posting a detailed food journal, staying within a daily calorie goal and recording every 10 minutes of exercise. Each Monday, we would weigh in and earn points for every pound lost, and the person with the highest percentage of weight loss that week would earn extra points. At the end of the 15 weeks, the prize money would be split between the woman with the most cumulative points and the woman with the highest percentage of weight loss. I posted my competition rules on Facebook, and to my surprise, not just three or four, but 21 friends committed to the competition, which we named Girls Getting Fit. These friends, from all different seasons of my life, bonded and cheered for one another with each pound lost, each goal reached and each new pair of skinny pants that fit. We supported each other through moments of failure, pulled muscles, job changes, deaths in the family and cancer treatments. We lost weight through good old-fashioned hard work, one small change at a time, and we had fun doing it together. continued on page 25

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Competition

Healthy Habits, ‘Girls Getting Fit’ Style Drink 8-10 eight-ounce glasses of water a day. If you don’t like water, try adding a little lemon or lime juice for flavor. If you use a 32-ounce cup, you will only have to refill it once. Know how many calories your body needs. Plug your weight and activity level into an app like My Fitness Pal or Lose It, and it will help you determine how much you should eat daily to maintain your weight or to safely lose one to two pounds a week. Keep a detailed food journal. According to a recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, maintaining a food journal leads to greater weight loss success. Be honest about every bite. If you log your food as you go instead of waiting until the end of the day, you’ll be better able to plan what you eat and not go over your daily calorie goal.

Aim for at least 6 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Start your day with a smoothie or eat a salad for lunch. Make it a goal to fill half of your dinner plate with non-starchy veggies or salad and then fill the other half with a quarter protein and a quarter carbohydrate or starch. Exercise. Start small if you need to, but start. Commit to taking a walk as a family every night after dinner. Meet a friend early in the morning or during your lunch hour to work out. Try lots of different forms of exercise until you find something you love — walking, jogging, cycling, rollerblading, kettlebells, jump rope, swimming, Zumba — the possibilities are myriad. Set measurable, realistic goals each week. If changing your eating habits and finding time to exercise feels overwhelming, pick one attainable goal

each week. For instance, drink 32 ounces of water before drinking anything else, or walk for 30 minutes three times a week, or only eat second servings of vegetables. Be accountable to others. In Girls Getting Fit, we shared everything from our daily food journals and exercise choices to our weekly weigh-ins. Seeing each other’s successes encouraged us to keep moving towards our own goals and seeing each other’s failures helped us not to feel alone.

Take It Outside By Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

8 REASONS TO ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS Now that the steam and storms of summer have faded and it’s safe to venture outside without fear of evaporating, it’s time to enjoy the natural air-conditioning that makes South Florida winters the envy of much of the country. Research shows getting out into the great outdoors is more than just enjoyable — it’s good for you, too! Here are eight reasons why: Better Health. Inactivity increases your risk for physical

where we aren’t bombarded by text messages and to-do

disability and disease, yet 28% of American adults and 19%

lists — we’re able to tune in to subtle details like budding

of kids age 6 to 17 are inactive today. People who spend

leaves and animal paw prints. The shift in stimulation

more time outdoors are more active on average than people

improves memory and increases people’s ability to

who spend less time outside. Ride bikes or start jogging to

focus attention on work-related technical details.

jumpstart your fitness routine. Hills, uneven terrain and wind resistance challenge your muscles and your mind. Mood. Research consistently shows outdoor exposure

Fewer Symptoms of ADHD. A national survey of more than 400 parents of children with ADHD found those who regularly played outdoors in unstructured green

improves mood and protects against depression. An analysis

spaces like parks and woodlands had less severe symptoms

of 30 studies done in the last 26 years found you don’t have

than kids who played indoors or on outdoor playgrounds

to break a sweat to get benefits from being outside. Even

with man-made structures. A nature walk or trip to

low-intensity outdoor activities, such as walking or gardening

the beach may be just what the doctor ordered.

for 20 minutes, can be beneficial. In fact, the biggest increase

Enhanced Creativity. Researchers from the University

in mood and self-esteem occurs in the first 5 minutes.

of Kansas found backpackers who spent four days in

So what are you waiting for? Putter around in the yard

nature — unplugged from electronics — scored a full 50

to feel instantly happier.

percent better on a creative problem-solving test. It’s not

Sunshine. Ultraviolet rays from the sun cause the body to

clear whether time in nature or timeout from technology,

produce Vitamin D, which is hard to get from food sources

or a combination of both, was responsible for this

alone. This important nutrient is crucial for calcium absorption

impressive result. Lesson for you? Leave your cell

in the body, and low levels increase your risk of fracture and

phone at home — or at least leave it in your pocket.

osteoporosis. Studies also link Vitamin D deficiency to asthma,

Less Stress. Outdoor environments aren’t created equal.

cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Soak up some

Studies show a 50-minute walk in the park is more restorative

rays to make more D. Experts say 5 to 30 minutes of sunshine

than walking the same distance and duration on city streets.

two to three times a week should be enough for most people.

People who walked in nature reported feeling less time

Body Image. If Zumba makes you feel more like a three-

pressure and more positive feelings than urban walkers

footed klutz than a Latin temptress, you’re not alone. Full-

did. If a city stroll is your only option, take a friend.

frontal mirrors and the presence of other people cause gym-

Those who walked with a buddy felt more invigorated

goers to focus on how they look while exercising instead of

after an urban outing.

what they’re doing. In the natural environment, you’re better

No matter what you do in the great outdoors, make

able to focus on how it feels to move your body and what

sure to enjoy it with all your senses. Breathe deeply.

your body can do. What’s not to like about that?

Listen for birdsong. Look at cloud shapes. Smell the roses.

Renewed Focus. Research conducted at the

Feel the ground beneath your feet and the wind in your

University of Michigan shows the relaxed quiet of outdoor

hair. Claim your place in the big, wide world. Nature

environments allows our brains to recharge. In nature —

is always waiting.

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

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Nature Time COOL HAPPENINGS IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS First Day Hike MONDAY, JANUARY 1 Start the new year off with a guided hike while learning about the archaeological, historical and natural importance of the site. Pre-registration required. $5. 10-11am, Long Key Nature Center, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797

Family Hayride and Campfire FRIDAYS, JANUARY 5 & 19 Enjoy a hayride around the park, and a marshmallow roast around a campfire to make s’mores. $3.50/person. •Jan. 5, 7-9:30pm, Reverend Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park, 2520 NW Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-357-8801 •Jan. 19, 6-9pm, T.Y. Park, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 954-357-8811 •Jan. 19, 7-9:30pm, Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100

Bird Walk SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 6-7 Learn about the island’s avian life during this fun-filled excursion. •Jan. 6, 8:30-10:30am, Deerfield Island Park, 1720 Deerfield Island Park, Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100. Must be at Pioneer dock by 8:15am to board the boat shuttle. •Jan. 7, 7:30-10:30am, Tall Cypress Natural Area, 3700 Turtle Run Blvd., Coral Springs, 954-357-5100

Guided Hike TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 Get in touch with nature on a naturalist-led hike through the park. Free. 9-10am, Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100

Nature Tots TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS JANUARY 9, 11, 16, 25 Explore nature through stories, songs, arts and crafts and more. Ages 2-4. $5. Parental participation and pre-registration required. 10-11am. •Jan. 9, Miramar Pineland, 3600 S. University Dr., Miramar, 954-357-8776 •Jan. 11, Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198 •Jan. 16, West Lake Park, 1200 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161 •Jan. 25, Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W. State Rd. 84, Dania Beach, 954-357-8884

Pineland at Night Hike WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10 Venture through the forest as you learn about the sights and sounds of the night during this guided hike. Pre-registration required. $5. 5:30-6:30pm, Miramar Pineland, 3600 S. University Dr., Miramar, 954-357-8776

Preschool Play ’N Learn THURSDAY, JANUARY 11 Preschool children explore 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 continued on page 24

Nature Time continued from page 23

Family Fun Nature Series: Art and Nature SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 Learn about the connection between nature and art by creating your own unique nature-oriented artwork. Pre-registration is required at least one week in advance. All ages. $2 donation. 2-3:30pm, Anne Kolb Nature Center at West Lake Park, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161

Naturalist-Led Tour TUESDAY, JANUARY 16 Explore the unique natural area within the park. Free. 9-10am, Easterlin Park, 1000 NW 38 St., Oakland Park, 954-357-5190

Geocaching

Once in a Blue Moon Hike

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 Explore the habitat while searching for hidden treasure on a geocaching adventure. 10-11am, Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Rd. S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 Venture out on a hike, view the full moon as it rises, and learn why some moons are called “blue moons” . All ages. $5. 7-8pm, Long Key Nature Center, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797

Shutterbug Photo Hunt

Flamingo Gardens

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 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, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

DAILY Experience Florida as it used to be at this botanical garden and animal refuge, home to the largest collection of Florida native wildlife including alligators, bobcats, eagles, otters, panthers, peacocks, and of course, flamingos. Explore the lush walkways, take a narrated tram tour, and catch the wildlife encounter shows. $19.95/adult, $12.95/child. Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org

Survivor Island

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 Slip on some sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight for an evening stroll. Pre-registration required. All ages. $3. 6-7pm, Crystal Lake Natural Area, 3299 NE Third Ave., Pompano Beach, 954-357-5100

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 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. Registration required four days prior to the event. Ages 8 and up. $8/tribe member. 9am-noon, Deerfield Island Park, 1720 Deerfield Island Park, Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100

Saturday Stroll and Learn: Prairie

Knee-High Naturalist

Be Kind to Animals

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 Preschool children can learn about nature through hands-on activities such as games, nature walks and outside adventures. Pre-registration required. Ages 3-5. $5. 10-11am, Long Key Nature Center, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797

SUNDAYS Children get up close and personal with native and exotic animals. Donations accepted. Free. 11am, Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital, 3000 Sportsplex Dr., Coral Springs, 954-752-9453 www.sawgrassnaturecenter.org

Night Hike

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 Take a look at the nature center’s dry prairie and its distinctive species, and hear how prescribed burns help maintain it. Free. 10-11am, Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Rd. S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

Up in the Sky SATURDAYS Explore the night sky with assistance from members of the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association. Sunset to midnight, Fox Observatory at Markham Park, 16001 W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise, 954-357-8868

Free Events in the Park

Hollywood Blvd. & US 1

FuLL Moon druM circLe 7 - 9pm

Jan. 2 & 31 Jan. 12 Jan. 21

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

MLk ceLebraTion 5 - 9pm Bounce houses, face painters, and concert at the Amphitheater. Lawn seating. Bring a beach chair or blanket. Fun for all ages. Admission FREE.

GLobaL MediTaTion For WorLd Peace 6 - 7:30pm 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

Jan. 26 & 27 Jan. 28

2017 AWARDS

shakesPeare in The Park 8pm Shakespeare Miami presents Hamlet. Admission FREE. Lawn seating. Bring a beach chair or blanket. Shakespearemiami.com

hoLLyWood heaLinG haiTi 1 - 5pm Benefit concert featuring Charlie Pickett, Jacuzzi Boys and more. Children’s activities, SQUATTER Pop Up Artisan and Crafts fair. All funds raised will directly benefit the Project Papillon Orphanage and Community Youth Center in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Hollywoodcares.net

Mon

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

Fri

Free family fun featuring, face painter and bounce houses.

Movie niGhT 8pm See a free family-friendly flick each week at the Amphitheater. Lawn seating. Bring a beach chair or blanket. 1/5 Monster Trucks (PG), 1/19 Kubo and the Two Strings (PG)

Funky Mosaics by coraL Coral Nocie is inspired by her love of color, jewelry, sparkle and bling. She creates one-of-a-kind mosaics utilizing discarded, and broken materials. Nothing has to be perfect to be beautiful. Join the party when you see the exhibit in person. Gallery is open to the public admission Free Mon – Thurs 11am – 6:30pm exhibit runs Jan. 17 - Mar. 18, 2018

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 954.921.3500 or www.hollywoodfl.org

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Healthy Competition

Mark your calendars! Saturday, February 10 2-3pm

continued from page 20

Enchanted Castle Fairytales

The eight women who persevered to the

presented by Katie Adams

end lost a total of 165 pounds, an average of over 20 pounds per person. Lynn, my friend battling cancer, was the winner of the most accumulated points. After incorporating exercise and healthy eating into her life, her recovery after radiation treatments dropped from three weeks to 10 days, which amazed her doctors who’d been long encouraging her to get healthy. Rachel, the winner of the highest percentage of weight loss, lost almost 17% of her weight and went on to run

The Snow Queen

Sunday, March 4

11am - 4 pm

Saturday, January 13 2 – 3pm Nova Southeastern University Alvin Sherman Library

SToRy FesT!

To learn more about our free family READ programming and library services for the visit: FUN public.library.nova.edu/kids OF IT! or call 954-262-5477 Find us on

Nova Southeastern University Alvin Sherman Library

SToRy FesT! READ

for the FUN OF IT!

Parking is $1 per hour

two 5Ks. Lori’s ratio between “bad” and “good” cholesterol improved dramatically, and after three years of being on antidepressants, Deanne was able to wean off medication. I may not have been the Biggest Loser,

Nova Southeastern University Alvin Sherman Library 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Boulevard Fort Lauderdale-Davie, Florida 33314-1013

but at the end of those 15 weeks, I had

A joint-use facility between Nova Southeastern University and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners

lost 23 pounds and more than two dress sizes. I learned to eat smaller portions and to view food as fuel instead of something with which to stuff myself when I’m bored or stressed. My husband and I discovered a love for kettlebells, which somehow helped to eliminate the back pain I had long experienced, and our family became more active, taking hikes on Saturdays and

LORIKEET LOFT NOW OPEN

joining the YMCA to work out and swim. My weight loss and healthy lifestyle gave me a self-confidence and sense of beauty

FEED THE LORIKEETS

that had been missing for many years. The healthy habits I learned and the support of my Girls Getting Fit friends played an important role in my emotional healing, too. I know I’m not the only mom who has let her health take a back seat during the early years of parenting. Maybe you’ve struggled with making healthy food choices or fitting exercise into your busy life, and you feel like you’ll never be in shape. Why not make

Jan. 6th Register Online Now

a small change towards a healthier you, or better yet, start your own competition? It might just be one of the best decisions you ever make, for you and your family.

Small additional charge to feed lorikeets

palmbeachzoo.org January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

HOME Tech

Who’s Watching the Kids? THE INS AND OUTS OF GPS CHILD-TRACKING DEVICES BY CAROLYN JABS

ooner or later, most parents lose a kid — usually for only a few minutes. A toddler figures out how to open an unlatched door. A kindergartener heads off to investigate something in another grocery aisle. A school-age child gets confused about the pickup location. Even if it’s brief, the experience is heart-stopping. And it’s given rise to a whole new industry — GPS tracking for kids. Some parents turn to GPS because the world seems scarier than it was when they were kids. Others want an electronic yenta who can keep an eye on children (and their caregivers) when parents can’t be there. Still others want a better way to supervise and enforce family rules about

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safety. For those who really can’t take care of themselves — very young children, kids with disabilities, even pets or elders with dementia — tracking devices may produce peace of mind. And, for children, that can be a problem. Experts point out that tracking devices can encourage both passivity and a false sense of security in children as well as parents. As parents find themselves counting on surveillance, they may be less intentional about helping kids anticipate and avoid risks. Instead of learning what they need to know to navigate confidently and safely in a risky world, kids may depend on the panic button that summons Mom. That said, there are situations in which a tracker can be very useful — think amusement parks or kids who walk to and from school. Before purchasing the technology, consider these questions: WHAT DOES IT DO? Some trackers, like Trax, do nothing but show location. They can be attached to children, elders, pets

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or even a laptop that tends to wander off. Many units resemble watches or function like flip phones. And some, like the Amby Gear Smartwatch, include games or virtual pets. For little kids, the extra bells and whistles may be distracting. For an older child, they may make the device more appealing. WHAT’S THE TECHNOLOGY? Tracking units that use GPS depend on satellites and some provide coverage pretty much anywhere on the planet. Other devices use the cellphone network so they won’t work if the child wanders out of range. Still, other devices like My Buddy Tag use Bluetooth technology. Their reach is limited, though that may be just fine if you’re trying to keep tabs on a child in the backyard or your local park. The most accurate devices like the Wherecom Kidfit use a combination of technologies. WHAT DOES IT MONITOR? At the very least, a tracking device should pinpoint a child’s location. Some send a signal at

intervals; others allow continuous tracking though that may drain the battery. Many units make it possible to set up safety zones or “geofences” and send an alert if the child goes beyond those boundaries. IS IT COMPLICATED? For very young children, simplicity is a virtue. Tinitell, for example, is a band with a button. If a child pushes it, the device calls preprogrammed numbers until someone picks up. Check the app as well as the device. If it has lots of features, be sure customer support is readily available. HOW LONG IS THE BATTERY LIFE? Even the best tracker won’t work if the battery is dead. Find out how long the battery lasts, how it has to be charged and whether there’s a low-battery alert. Lineable, for example, is a simple, inexpensive wristband tracker with a battery that

uncool in elementary school. Check bands to be sure they are flexible and won’t chafe. And think about how big the device is in relation to your child. Multi-feature devices may be too bulky for little wrists. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Tracking devices range from $40 to $200. Many devices also require a monthly service contract that can cost from $4 to $40 per month. Before signing with a new service, check your existing cellphone provider to see if they offer a better deal on a device. ARE THERE SPECIAL FEATURES FOR SPECIAL KIDS? AngelSense is designed to provide extra layers of protection for children with special needs that make them more vulnerable. Doki lets parents schedule reminders or deactivate the distracting features of the watch when the kid is supposed to be concentrating on

lasts an entire year. IS THE DEVICE SECURE? If you have to sign in to get information about your child’s location, it’s possible for other people to sign in too. What precautions has the company taken to prevent hacking? What kind of alerts will you get if there is a security breach? WHAT KIND OF COMMUNICATION IS POSSIBLE? Some units have a big panic button a child can press. Some allow one-way communication. More expensive devices like the GizmoGadget, available from Verizon, provide two-way communication similar to a cellphone. IS IT KID-PROOF? Some kids can handle delicate equipment and some can’t. Choose a GPS unit accordingly. Pocket Finder, for example, is built out of plastic that’s almost indestructible. The Korex Babysitter claims to be waterproof. Be sure the clasp on any

other things. Of course, by the time a child is old enough for a cellphone, the tracking question is moot. Cell phones are trackers with a variety of apps that will monitor where children are and what they’re doing. For older kids, parents need to think carefully and talk frequently about the intersection between privacy and trust. Some kids may benefit from additional supervision, but parents must keep their eyes on the ultimate goal — raising children who are responsible and confident enough to make their own decisions about staying safe in a complicated world. That, of course, can be done without a tracking unit. For support, consult the safety lessons from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.kidsmartz.org.

band is secure and easy to use. WILL YOUR CHILD WEAR IT? Trackers like HereO feature bright colors that may appeal to a preschooler and be decidedly

about families and technology for over 20 years. She is the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing

Tracking Devices

LINEABLE – www.lineable.net

AMBYGEAR SMARTWATCH – www.ambygear.com

MY BUDDY TAG – www.mybuddytag.com

ANGELSENSE – www.angelsense.com

POCKETFINDER – www.pocketfinder.com

DOKI – www.doki.com

SAFE KIDS PAXIE BAND – www.oursafefamily.com

GIZMOGADGET – www.verizonwireless.com

TINITELL – www.tinitell.com

HEREO – www.hereofamily.com

TRAX – www.traxfamily.com

KOREX WATERPROOF BABYSITTER – www.amazon.com

WHERECOM KIDFIT – www.wherecom.com/produceList/k2.html

• Hands-On Activities • Experiments

• Note-Taking • Investigations • A STEM Studio – Certified Teacher • Instruction is guided by the Florida State Standards Select One Day a Week: Monday through Thursday 3:30pm-5:30pm *Open Teacher Work Days 9am–3pm* 696 East McNab Road Pompano Beach 33060

954-937-1426

info@scienceonpompano.com

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

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

homework

HELPER By Denise Yearian

10 Ways to Get It Done Right

Homework can be a daily frustration for parents or a rote exercise for students. But with a little guidance, it can be an important component to a child’s educational experience. To make the most of homework time, consider these tips. Time it right. To find the best time to do homework, consider your schedule and your child’s temperament and personality. Some kids need a break when they get home. Others lose steam if they don’t do their assignments right away. Try doing homework at different times to see where you have the greatest success. Then create a consistent routine based on what works best for your child.

Create space. Children need an undistracted desk-like area for doing homework. And for some that may not be a bedroom where familiar toys could divert their attention or a kitchen table situated around household hubbub. Find a consistent place away from distractions but still central to a parent so the child can be monitored if he has questions or needs help staying on task.

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Tuned in or turned off? Some children enjoy listening to music while studying, but parents need to consider their child’s learning style and the type of media he’s tuning in to. While a small percentage of children do better with a little background noise, the majority need quiet. If your child insists on having something on, refrain from TV or familiar tunes that might distract his thinking. Choose instead unfamiliar songs without words, such as soothing, classical music.

Aid and ally. Parents should be there to lend support and provide guidance when needed. Read together, help with directions and spec out the first few problems to make sure your child understands the concepts. Then let her work independently while remaining available for questions.

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Follow up by checking for quality. If you see several mistakes, encourage your child to make corrections. But don’t fix it for her. Teachers would prefer the work come back wrong rather than having a parent make needed corrections. If the work is replete with errors, let it go and send a note to the teacher saying your child didn’t understand the work. Another thing that may help is a homework buddy. Encourage your child to partner with a classmate so they can be in contact with one another if either has trouble while completing an assignment.

continued on page 30

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SMARTchoices

EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS TO START THE YEAR RIGHT SCHOOLS

ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

American Heritage School................................................ 30-31

Broward Center for the Performing Arts............................. 40

Broward County Public Schools Magnet Programs............. 35

Florida Children’s Theatre..................................................

Cambridge Schools................................................................. 39

Stella’s Dancers’ Studio.......................................................... 36

Creative Child Learning Center............................................. 41

Young At Art Institute........................................................... 38

Glades Christian Academy..................................................... 34 NSU Mailman Segal Center................................................... 37

SERVICES

NSU University School........................................................... 33

Children’s Services Council of Broward County................... 42

Somerset Academy East Prep & Hollywood........................ 36 St. Mark’s Episcopal School................................................... 32 Summit-Questa Montessori School...................................... 32 The Sagemont School............................................................ 34

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

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continued from page 28

Rapid review. Reviewing previous lessons is beneficial in refreshing a student’s memory, particularly with subjects like math where one concept builds upon another. Look at a couple of past lessons and have your child briefly explain the concepts to you. But keep it short so he’s still alert for the current day’s assignment. Lingering too long? If your child is working for an extended period of time, consider the cause. Is she tired? Unfocused? Dawdling? Not understanding the material? If she’s procrastinating, set a timer or offer an incentive for completing the assignment on time. If, however, your child is diligent and still not finishing in a reasonable amount of time, have her stop. Then let the teacher know how long she worked.

Pay attention to patterns. If you find your child frequently saying he doesn’t understand the work, it may be a clue he needs extra school support or a tutor. Likewise, if he effortlessly whips through his assignments day after day, it may be an indication he’s not being challenged. Homework isn’t supposed to be overly difficult but students should have to put some time and thought into it. Look for patterns that something is happening, either good or bad. Then communicate with the teacher and ask for her suggestions.

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

Relegate responsibility. Encourage your child to take on the responsibility of starting and finishing homework by creating a system such as a check-off list. When she starts to receive long-term projects, help her map out the work by using a calendar so she learns good time management and organizational skills. Break down large projects into the smallest components of what needs to be done each day — reading “X” number of pages, for example. Then check with your child periodically to make sure she’s staying on task.

Scope out sick days. If your child is going to be out for more than a few days, contact the teacher and let her know. If he has to stay home due to a minor illness, the teacher may want to send a few things your way. But if your child is truly sick and needs to rest, she’ll probably suggest letting him recover and catching him up on the work when he returns.

Constantly communicate. Find out early on the best way to contact your child’s teacher — by phone, text, email, note or other method. Then if an issue arises, don’t wait to discuss it. Small problems can escalate if not addressed right away. Even if things are going well, occasionally touch base to make sure you’re both pleased with your child’s progress.

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American Heritage School PLANTATION AND BOCA/DELRAY

American Heritage School provides a rigorous and well-rounded college preparatory education with superior programs in academics, the arts, and athletics for students in grades PK3 through 12. In our Lower School, we offer advanced courses, including the Stanford University math program for accelerated math students in grades 4-6; 15 elective classes are integrated into all students’ daily schedules. In our Upper School, we offer 132 honors courses, 29 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and a Pre-Professional Program with Pre-Med, Pre-Law, Pre-Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering. Over 85 student-run clubs and organizations are available at all grade levels. Some of our accolades include: • #1 private school in the nation and #1 high school in Florida for 8th consecutive year for highest number of National Merit Scholars • #11 out of 22,000 high schools in the nation for National Merit Scholars • $83 million in college scholarships offered to the Class of 2017 • 92% passing rate on all Advanced Placement exams (52% passing rate in the state of Florida; 60% passing rate globally); AP average test score: 4 • #1 high school in the U.S. in national math competitions • #1 school in Florida at state science fair competition • Qualifiers at the 2017 Robotics World Championship • #1 private school in the U.S. in Model U.N. • #1 Mock Trial team in Florida; #6 Mock Trial team in the U.S. • Top 1% in the nation in Speech & Debate competition • Numerous Fine Arts awards at the national and state levels, including thespians, chorus, orchestra, band, and art

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Make your Mark in Life! ACADEMICS @ ARTS @ ATHLETICS @ SPIRITUALITY

ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE Terrific Toddlers – Grade 8

Sunday, February 4 @ 1:00 p.m.

–and–

Thursday, February 8 @ 8:30 a.m.

1750 East Oakland Park Boulevard @ Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33334 www.saintmarks.com

RSVP Today!

954-563-1241

Admission and participation in educational programs at St. Mark’s Episcopal School (including financial aid, athletics, and other school-administered programs) is open to all eligible students who meet our qualification requirements regardless of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, or disability.

Summit-Questa Montessori School

OPEN E HOUS18

We pt Acce ! VPK

1-7--3pm 1pm

for

25 years

A high quality Montessori education with nationally certiﬁed Montessori teachers. Our students enjoy learning and consistently gain entrance into the ﬁnest schools: St. omas Aquinas, NSU University School, American Heritage, Cardinal Gibbons, International Baccalaureate Programs, South Plantation Environmental Science Magnet Program.

www.summitquesta.com 954-584-3466 5451 SW 64th Avenue, Davie, Florida

Accredited by AISF, Advanced ED/SACS, Ai, NCPSA, MSA, Full Member of AMS, Recipient of Gold Seal of Excellence Award

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Toddler – 8th Grade

• Montessori Education • Montessori Teacher Training Center • Small Class Size • Low Student/ Teacher Ratio • Hands-on Learning • Art, Music, Spanish, & Peace Curriculum • Field Trips, P.E., Recess • Before Care, After Care • Gymnasium and Pool • Tutoring • Sports Teams • Summer Camp & MORE!

Judy Dempsey, Owner, Principal, Recipient of the 2016-2017 AISF Distinguished Educator of the Year Award & author of Turning Education Inside-Out

St. Mark’s Episcopal School St. Mark’s Episcopal School invites you to visit their Admission Open House on Sunday, February 4, 2018 and Thursday, February 8, 2018. Located on ten acres overseeing the Middle River in Fort Lauderdale, the school’s charming campus hosts approximately 400 students from toddlers through grade 8. The small class sizes and nurturing environment offers a foundation of academic excellence with a wide range of extracurricular activities. The Project Lead the Way STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) curriculum starts in kindergarten and continues in the middle school years. St. Mark’s offers 17 athletic seasonal teams available to our middle school students (Grades 5-8). The extensive arts program offers visual arts, chorus, beginning, intermediate and advanced band, musical theater, flute choir and steel drum band. Students build confidence and leadership through service opportunities and are prepared to attend the best high schools and boarding schools in the country.

Summit-Questa Montessori School Summit-Questa Montessori School uses an authentic Montessori curriculum from toddlergrade 8, led by nationally certified Montessori teachers. Established for 25 years and located on a beautiful 10-acre campus in Davie, it has native habitats, edible schoolyard vegetable gardens, butterfly gardens, a wetland preserve, gymnasium, and 2 pools. Our Montessori program also includes art, music, PE, animal care, science, advanced math, BC/AC. Specialty after-school programs include reading/math labs, chess, STEM, gymnastics, drama, and sports. Summer Camp is available. The principal, Judy Dempsey, is a Montessori educator of 40 years, the author of Turning Education Inside Out, and was the recipient of the 2016-2017 Distinguished Educator of the Year award by the Association of Independent Schools of Florida. The school is fully accredited by AISF, NCPSA, Middle States Association, Accreditation International, and Advanced Ed/SACS, and is a full member of the American Montessori Society. The school is also the home of Summit Montessori Teacher Training Institute, a MACTE accredited Montessori teacher training center.

NSU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

FINDS THE

Best IN U

SCIENCE CHAMPS Lower School students won 1st place overall at the Tri-County Elementary Science Olympiads

CAPPIE AWARDS Upper School production, Fiddler on the Roof, took home 18 Cappie nominations and 8 Cappie Awards

FELLOWSHIPS 12 students are participating in the NSU Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine Fellowship Program

1st PLACE Lower School students won 1st place in the Stock Market Competition

TOP 10 SCHOOL The Speech & Debate Program is one of the Top 10 in the country

#1 ROBOTICS TEAM in Florida

DIVERSITY More than 50 nationalities are represented in our student body

FILM FESTIVAL 8 student-produced films were recognized at the All-American High School Film Festival

AWARD-WINNING SCHOLASTIC WRITING Students have won over 30 awards for their outstanding writing

TOP ATHLETES 12 students signed national letters of intent on Signing Day

COLLEGE RESOURCES Located on the campus of NSU, a leading research university, affording students access to college-level resources

QUALIFIED EDUCATORS Most of our educators hold Masters and Doctorate degrees

JOIN US FOR OUR

Open House

FEBRUARY 13 • 9:00 AM • AUTONATION CENTER FOR THE ARTS RSVP to 954 - 262 - 4506

JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN - GRADE 12 COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 3375 SW 75 Avenue, Davie, FL 33314

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Glades Christian Academy Glades Christian Academy, located on the campus of Church by the Glades, offers preschool through eighth grade. Class size is small and lower grades have a full time aide. GCA students learn through a variety of methods from traditional textbooks to iPads. Students participate in a full academic program that encourages creative and higher level thinking skills. Elementary students engage weekly in art, music, PE, Spanish, and computers. Middle school students select an elective course from the same selection. Weekly chapel has highly creative lessons, interactive games, and praise and worship, bringing the bible to life and applying real world lessons. After school is a time to complete homework, play with friends or join a club to strengthen physical skills in gymnastics, tennis, and karate. Students who enjoy the arts can join clubs that foster music, art, and drama. Glades Christian Academy, where we are all about Jesus and His word.

OPEN HOUSE LOWER SCHOOL Tuesday, January 23 | 9 AM UPPER SCHOOL Friday, February 2 | 8 AM RSVP AT SAGEMONT.COM

CALL TODAY 954-389-9193 PREK3–GRADE 5 LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

1570 Sagemont Way | Weston, FL 33326 GRADES 6–12 UPPER SCHOOL CAMPUS

ACHIEVING ACADEMIC, ATHLETIC AND ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE. Our students enjoy a well-rounded private school education in a diverse and supportive environment. The Lower School Campus combines core academics with specialty classes, while the Upper School Campus offers a college-preparatory curriculum, strong athletics and a variety of co-curricular activities. The Sagemont experience prepares students for success in the classroom and beyond.

In_Weston-Sagemont_Jun18_7.25x4.625.indd 1

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2585 Glades Circle | Weston, FL 33327

sagemont.com

11/16/17 10:41 AM

Broward County Public Schools

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Established 1915

BROWARD County Public Schools

Educating today’s students to succeed in tomorrow’s world Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) is a national leader offering innovative, educational programs that engage students in ways that motivate them to learn. Our focus is on the overall student experience from pre-K through grade 12 and beyond. From early learning and literacy through college and career readiness, BCPS ensures student development and educational programs are effectively aligned. Across BCPS, we are inspiring our students to take on academic challenges, engaging young minds to master logical thinking, preparing students for college and careers, closing achievement gaps and collaborating with the community for educational priorities. At the heart of our District is the belief and knowledge that every student deserves a worldclass education. Education opens doors to the future and levels playing fields, allowing our youth to grow and develop into responsible, productive adults who are empowered to pursue their dreams and become the leaders of tomorrow. From our youngest pre-kindergarten learners — through elementary, middle and high school — to our adult education students, our teachers, support staff and administrators are working hard to educate all students to reach their highest potential. Our schools continually receive recognition for their commitment to excellence in education and offer a wide variety of programs and opportunities including: Computer science; career and technical education with industry certifications; communications; debate; athletics; performing & visual arts; dual languages; science, technology, engineering & mathematics (STEM); Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC); Advanced Placement, honors and gifted; Montessori, scholastic chess; aeronautical, marine and environmental sciences; culinary arts; International Baccalaureate and Cambridge; robotics; and much more. These are just some of the programs offered across the District. To learn more visit browardschools.com. Follow us on Twitter @browardschools and like us on Facebook.com/browardschools.

Broward County Public Schools offers

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Discover the enriching activities, specialized themes, and academic programs available for your child in magnet programs.

Apply now.

browardschools.com/ schoolchoice

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Stella’s Dancers’ Studio At the age of 19, Stella Palumbo, a young dancer, walked into a one-room dance studio in Cooper City and knew it would be hers to establish a career. That was 35 years ago. Her studio has grown to four classrooms, and her love for the students is stronger than ever. To what does Stella attribute her success? To begin with, her life-long passion for dance. Stella’s Dancers’ Studio boasts a warm, friendly atmosphere that has produced 34 years of recital photos (covering the studio walls), hundreds of competition trophies, and students who have gone on to exciting professional careers in television and on stage. Dance studios abound in South Florida, but Stella’s experience and professional knowledge help keep her studio above the competition. In addition, a variety of dance genres are offered, with over 70 classes per week and more than a dozen instructors. All classrooms have an observation window, raised wood floors and state-of-the-art amenities. Experience Stella’s Dancers’ Studio. Visitors and inquiries welcome.

ENROLLING STUDENTS NOW K-5 A rigorous, academic program with a proven track-record of high student achievement

• High-performing charter school • Technology-rich classrooms • Sophisticated and research-based teaching practices • Aftercare and tutoring program available

Somerset East Preparatory Academy & Hollywood 2000 South State Road 7 • Miramar, FL 33323

(954) 987-7890 • www.somersetep.com

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Somerset East Prep and Hollywood Somerset Academy, a high-performing “A” charter school, offers a unique educational experience aimed at providing all students a quality education with a rigorous curriculum geared toward mastery of the Florida Standards. We offer a staff full of dedicated and experienced teachers, technology in each classroom, focused and differentiated instruction in reading and math, as well as a safe learning environment where all students can succeed. We are proud to say that we out-perform all public schools in our area and will continue to raise the bar each year to achieve success. When placed in the right academic environment, students flourish and grow to their full potential. Make Somerset Academy East Prep and Hollywood your school of choice.

NSU’s Mailman Segal Center The mission of Nova Southeastern University’s Mailman Segal Center for Human Development is to enhance the quality of life for children and families through multidisciplinary research, academics and service. Innovative, evidencebased clinical and educational programs emphasize best practices in early childhood, autism and family science, academic and professional development, and support for the greater community. Unique in its mission and focus, the Mailman Segal Center for Human Development is one of the nation’s largest and most highly respected, comprehensive early childhood demonstration and training facilities. MSC is the only university-based, nationally recognized, NAEYC accredited early childhood program in Broward County, MSC’s award winning programs include: • The Parenting Place™: parent and child classes, enrichment programs for preschool children, parent coaching, family education and support programs • Infant & Toddler Program: innovative programs for children, ages 6 weeks to 2 years in a nurturing, educational and play-based environment • Family Center Preschool: early childhood programs for children, ages 2 to 5 years with a focus on critical thinking, communication, concept development, creativity, and cooperation • Kapila Family Starting Right Program: early intervention program for children ages 18 months to 3 years diagnosed with, or at-risk for, autism spectrum disorder • The Academy: private educational program for preschool children, ages 3 to 5 years with autism spectrum disorder Join us on January 20th from 10am to noon for a fun-filled family event where you can meet our experienced teachers and sign-up for a free trial class at the Parenting Place™!

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION RECEIVE A $50 APPLICATION FEE WAIVER WHEN YOU APPLY AT OUR OPEN HOUSE.

NSU’S MAILMAN SEGAL CENTER

EARLY LEARNING PROGRAMS

Open House

12-021-17RNK

Saturday, January 20, 2018 10:00 a.m.–noon Come join us for a fun-filled family event and learn more about our university-based, nationally recognized, NAEYC-accredited programs. n

FAMILY CENTER INFANT & TODDLER program (children ages 6 weeks–24 months)

FAMILY CENTER PRESCHOOL and PREKINDERGARTEN (children ages 2–5 years)

PARENTING PLACE ™ Parent/Child Classes (children ages 6 weeks–5 years)

JIM & JAN MORAN FAMILY CENTER VILLAGE 7600 SW 36th Street, Davie, Florida 33328-1902 To RSVP or to register, please visit nova.edu/mscopenhouse or call (954) 262-6918. 12-021-17-RNK MSC Open House 2/3 pg ad.indd 1

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M 12/13/17 I LY L I F E3:03 PM 37

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Young At Art Museum Preschool Young At Art Museum Preschool, located within Young At Art Museum, is a fully licensed program designed for children ages 3-4. The program adheres to Florida’s Early Learning and Developmental Standards. At Young At Art Museum Preschool children learn and explore amongst safe, secure and nurturing educational centers within the WonderScapes and CultureScapes galleries. Certified instructors are practicing artists in a variety of fields who work with parents to monitor each child’s social and emotional development, language and communication skills, cognitive and physical development and approach to learning. Small group and individual instruction is enhanced by museum exploration, outdoor playground exercise, library visits, art and music instruction and exhibitions of children’s artwork in a genuine art-gallery format. VPK is accepted, and extended care is available. For more information call 954-424-5070 or visit www.youngatartmuseum.org.

Florida Children’s Theatre Florida Children’s Theatre offers year-round theatre classes and camps for ages 4-18, including creative drama, acting, musical theatre, improvisation, private voice, and specialty workshops. Classes and camps are held at the Galleria Mall in Fort Lauderdale. FLCT also produces a full season of shows each year. The remainder of the 2017-2018 season includes Ragtime (Teen Repertory production), Honk, The Ugly Duckling Musical (Family Series production) and a special summer production of All Shook Up, based on the music of Elvis Presley. Auditions are open to ages 6 and up, with limits depending on the show. Additionally, FLCT offers community outreach programming including free performances and workshops, as well as arts infusion programs focusing on literacy, antibullying, health crisis and conflict resolution. Up-to-date information on classes, tickets, and auditions is available at www.flct.org. 2018 Summer Camp enrollment is now open.

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Cambridge Schools “A quality preschool lays the foundation for your child’s future academic success,” explains Brina Widlansky, executive director of the Cambridge Schools. She points out that preschool is about much more than just learning ABCs and 123s. “At Cambridge we strive to cultivate each child’s spirit, imagination and love of learning.” This is achieved through Cambridge’s carefullycrafted, hands-on, academic curriculum. Our dynamic program encourages children to explore their world in a safe and loving environment. By offering different age-appropriate, handson, brains-on activities, our students gain an understanding of math, science, writing, art and literacy. Each classroom is equipped with a variety of child-centered learning centers. On any given day, students can choose between a variety of activities, including: creating a restaurant in Dramatic Play with a cash register, menus and order pads, learning to read with phonics, inventive spelling and individualized journals, and creating their own math stories. At Cambridge, learning extends outside the classroom. Students of all ages take part in specialized music classes, library visits, computer/iPad labs, physical education and foreign language instruction. The school even offers specialized bilingual (English-Spanish) classes. Cambridge welcomes parents to take an active role in their child’s education. Cambridge sponsors special programs throughout the year for families, such as “Man of My Life” and “Lady I Love” nights. Parents are always welcome to take part in special school events such as Halloween Bash, the 100th Day of School Celebration, Farm Day and many more. The Cambridge Preschools serve children from 14 months through Pre-Kindergarten. School hours are 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., with before school and after school care available. Flexible scheduling is offered. The school follows the Broward or Palm Beach County Public School schedules; however, enrollment is ongoing. Cambridge Preschools are located in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coral Springs, and Wellington. Visit www.CambridgePreschools.com for more program information.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Your Child’s Journey of Learning Begins at Cambridge Preschools! • Hands-On, Brains-On Academic Curriculum • Active Learning for 18 Months and 2’s • Experiments and Discovery Learning for 3’s and 4’s • Pre-K Reading Program • Excellent Staff-to-Child Ratio • In-House Enrichment Programs for all Interests • Handwriting Program for 3’s & 4’s • Character Education Curriculum • Shaded Playgrounds • Secured Entrances • VPK Provider

Limited Spaces Still Available for January Inquire at your campus

Call to Schedule Your Private Tour Pembroke Pines • 954-430-3388 Weston • 954-217-8566 Coral Springs • 954-796-1177 Wellington • 561-791-0013

www.cambridgepreschools.com January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WINTER CLASSES BEGIN JANUARY 16

SING! DANCE! ACT! LEARN!

Our popular classes for PRESCHOOLERS, KIDS, TEENS and ADULTS are designed to encourage artistic expression and teach new skills in a fun environment.

OPEN HOUSE—SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

Sample classes • Meet the teaching artists • Tour the Education Center Participate in family-friendly activities • Enjoy light refreshments

BrowardCenter.org/classes • 954.414.6904

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Broward Center for the Performing Arts SING. DANCE. ACT. LEARN... AT THE BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Learn something new, try something different and explore your creative side! At the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, we offer professional instruction in a range of classes in a stunning, state-of-the-art facility. Classes are taught by an outstanding team of arts instructors and are centered around the performing arts, with truly something for everyone at any age or any level. Our early childhood development program integrates arts into learning for preschoolers. Youth and teens can enjoy a wide range of acting and musical theater opportunities, including the chance to perform on stage or sing show tunes in a vocal ensemble. Classes for adults include singing, dancing, acting and comedy improv. The Special Stars class teaches theater skills to those with physical and cognitive disabilities in a supportive and nurturing environment. The winter session is just around the corner, with classes beginning January 16, 2018. Early registration is encouraged and parking is included in the cost of registration. Join us for an open house on Sunday, January 14th from 10am-3pm where you can observe or sample a class, enjoy light refreshments, tour the Education Center, meet the teaching artists, win prizes and register to win a free class registration. You can also participate in many family-friendly activities like face painting and balloon art. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited so please RSVP in advance. For full details and a list of all the days sample classes, visit our website at BrowardCenter.org/programs. For questions about classes, or to RSVP for the open house, e-mail registrar@browardcenter.org or call 954-414-6904.

Creative Child Learning Center Our goal at Creative Child Learning Center is to provide children with a loving, nurturing environment which fosters social and emotional growth. Hands-on learning is encouraged through creativity, self-expression and fun. Our preschool learning environment offers children and parents high standards - in both curriculum and facilities - with teachers and administrators who are passionate and professional in a warm, loving, cheerful atmosphere. Creative Child Learning Centers are intentionally designed to provide a safe, homelike, loving and fun environment. Each child’s unique characteristics are valued. Our well-trained and talented staff nurtures children’s interests and encourages developmental advances. We believe childhood should be a time of joy, love and adventure. At the Creative Child Learning Centers children are appreciated for their diversity, challenges, successes and their tremendous potential. Our care philosophy is based on flexibility, choice and meeting the emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs of every child. We strive to create a “home away from home” for children and parents. Our staff respectfully follow parents’ requests. Communication is a top priority and daily communication opportunities are available via written notes and face-to-face conversations. Our goal is to serve as a team with families to help each child’s day go smoothly. Parents are always welcome to stop by while their child is at the center. Our commitment is to children feeling loved, secure and accepted as they begin their education. The goal of the collective Creative Child Learning Center community is to create trust, joyful memories, special friendships, a sense of curiosity and a life-long love of learning in each and every child. We have 3 convenient Broward County locations offering care for children ages 8 weeks*-5 years and an After School Program for grades K – 5: • Coral Springs – Parkland, 954-796-0081, 9675 Westview Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33076 • Davie – Plantation, 954-452-3346, 1305 SW 101st Road Davie, FL 33324 • Weston – Sunrise, 954-389-8245, 150 Weston Road Sunrise, FL 33326 • Infant program at Davie-Plantation location ONLY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A nurturing learning environment featuring high quality hands-on curriculums for children ages 8 weeks* - 5 years. Loving care provided from 7:00am–6:00pm

· APPLE accredited · VPK students welcome

Coral Springs - Parkland 9675 Westview Drive Coral Springs, FL 33076

1305 SW 101st Road Davie, FL 33324

Weston - Sunrise 150 Weston Road Sunrise, FL 33326

(954) 796-0081

(954) 452-3346

(954) 389-8245

Schedule a Tour Online!

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Children’s Services Council The Children’s Services Council of Broward County (CSC) funds programs that enhance school readiness and academic success. These initiatives strengthen early care and education programming in an effort to meet the comprehensive needs of child care centers, teachers, and families. Activities include: • Providing training and technical assistance using the Positive Behavior Support (PBS) approach specific to infant/toddler inclusion, family involvement, cultural sensitivity, and developmentally appropriate curricula. • Assisting providers with development of Quality Improvement Plans based upon needs identified by the appropriate environmental rating/scale assessment and linked to positive child outcomes. • Implementing evidence-based programming that helps support the PBS approach by focusing on training and support of preschool teachers, staff, and parents in order to prevent and/or address behavioral problems in at-risk children. For community resources, helpful websites, Broward Public Schools information, and child care options, view the interactive Broward County Family Resource Guide at https://cld.bz/OE0huTt. This publication is available in English, Español, Kreyòl, and Português for the convenience of readers. The CSC’s mission is to provide leadership, advocacy and resources necessary to enhance the lives of the children of Broward County and empower them to become responsible, productive adults. The CSC funds nearly 100 programs that serve children and families, advocates for policies that protect the interests of future generations and provides leadership that brings the child-serving community together. The CSC works with community partners to help “turn the curve” in a positive direction on issues such as: maternal and child health; family strengthening; after-school and out-of-school time; kinship care; youth leadership, advocacy and employment; and support for youth and families with special needs. For more information on CSC funded programs such as these, visit www.cscbroward.org or call 954-377-1000.

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Nominate Your Favorites Who’s Your BFF? Share with us your Broward Family Favorites

AWARDS

Broward Family Life is seeking nominations in a variety of categories, so there are many opportunities to pay tribute to the places you know and love! From restaurants to pediatricians, our BFF Awards recognize businesses and services that perform an outstanding job catering to families and children.

EXPERIENCED AD SALES REP NEEDED

Go to BrowardFamilyLife.com to Nominate Your Favorites

• Advertising sales 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

All entries must be received by January 21, 2018 January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

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.

JanuaryEvents

It’s Showtime!

MUSIC & MORE First Friday Jams FRIDAY, JANUARY 5

Music students are invited to bring their instruments and join the pros of the Gold Coast Jazz Society for an old-fashioned jam session. Free to participants and spectators. ARTSERVE, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-524-0805 www.goldcoastjazz.org

Girl Choir Audition SATURDAY, JANUARY 6

For girls who just love to sing, the Girl Choir of South Florida is holding walk-in auditions. No singing experience or audition preparation is required. Ages 6-13. THE GIRL CHOIR OF SOUTH FLORIDA, 3347 NW 55 St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-533-9227 www.girlchoir.org

Sunday Jazz Brunch SUNDAY, JANUARY 7

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 Street, Fort Lauderdale, www.fortlauderdale.gov

Salute to Vienna

around the world. $8/adult, $6/child. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW

Ring in the New Year with a re-creation of Vienna’s world famous New Year’s Concert featuring a full cast of musicians, European singers and costumed dancers. 8pm, THE CENTER, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs, 954-344-5990 www.thecentercs.com

THEATRE AT SUGAR SAND PARK,

BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW

300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, www.willowtheatre.org

Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.browardcenter.org

Charlotte’s Web

The Cat in the Hat

Lessons about friendship and loyalty take center stage in the beloved story about a pig and his best friend, a spider named Charlotte. $14-$18. 11am & 1pm, AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER, 3385 NE 188th St., Aventura, www.aventuracenter.org

The mischievous Cat in the Hat turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. $14-$18. 11am & 1pm, BROWARD

MONDAY, JANUARY 1

Sleeping Beauty Ballet

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3

A magical production of the timeless fairy tale. $39.22$60.42. 7:30pm, THE CENTER, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs, 954-344-5990 www.thecentercs.com

Riverdance

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 5-7

See the Irish dancing sensations as they present an exciting blend of dance, music and song during the troupe’s 20th Anniversary World Tour. $30 and up. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222

Fushu Daiko

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6

South Florida’s beloved taiko drum ensemble combines traditional drums and rhythms of Japan with musical styles from

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

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

The Snow Queen

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of adventure comes to life in this musical adaptation. 2-3pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY,

3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-262-4543

Miami City Ballet Program Two

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 & SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 27-28

Talented Miami City Ballet dancers present Circus Polka, In the Night, The Cage, Other Dances and West Side Story Suite. $20-$195. Jan. 14, 2pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.arshtcenter.org; Jan. 27-28,

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Saturday 8pm, Sunday 2pm.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

Music Under the Stars FRIDAY, JANUARY 12

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

Jammin’

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Join local musicians for this monthly unplugged jam in the outdoor amphitheater. Bring your musical instrument, your voice, or your clapping hands to take part in the musical fun. All ages. Free. 2-4pm, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

Story Pirates

Jazz Picnic in the Park

This comedic family show, based entirely on short stories written by elementary school students, is performed by professional improvisers and musicians. Free. 1:30pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and snacks to enjoy a free outdoor concert. 11am-2:30pm,

CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd.,

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19

CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

Miami, www.arshtcenter.org

Shen Yun: A Gift from Heaven

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30-31

Production combines classical Chinese dance and a unique orchestra that blends East and West. $60-$200. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave.,

Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

LIEBERMAN BOTANICAL GARDEN AMPHITHEATRE,

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

Tunes ’N Trucks Grab dinner from the food trucks, then kick back on your blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy this monthly concert series. This month features The Bron Burbank Band. Food trucks begin serving at 6pm, music starts at 7pm. SUNRISE CIVIC CENTER, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

Twilight Jammin’ SUNDAY, JANUARY 21

Join local musicians for this nighttime unplugged jam in the outdoor amphitheater. Bring your musical instrument, your voice, or your clapping hands to take part in the musical fun. All ages. Free. 5-7pm, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Las Olas Art Fair

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 6-7

One of the country’s top art festivals turns Fort Lauderdale’s signature boulevard into a kaleidoscope of color with art works from paintings to jewelry by local and national artists. Free. 10am-5pm, ALONG LAS OLAS BOULEVARD, Fort Lauderdale, www.artfestival.com

Butterfly Weekend

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 6-7

Learn all about these winged wonders and watch as butterflies are released into the wild. Butterfly Release at 1:30pm and 3:30pm. Noon-4pm, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-6637 www.mods.org

Zo’s Family Health & Wellness Groove SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

A fun-filled day of family activities including a 5K run/walk, mini sports clinics and more to benefit NBA Hall of Famer Alonzo Mourning’s local children’s charity. 8am 5K start. NORTH MIAMI ATHLETIC STADIUM, 2555 NE 151 St., North Miami Beach, www.zoswintergroove.com

Stone Crab & Seafood Festival SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

Bring the family to nibble on some stone crab claws and other seafood, or to watch the hermit crab races. Event includes games, live music, prizes and more. Seafood dishes from local vendors start at $5. Event is free, nominal fee for food. 11am-5pm, ESPLANADE PARK, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-468-1541 www.goriverwalk.com

MLK Parade & Multicultural Festival

FLIPANY Fun Run SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

MONDAY, JANUARY 15

Annual event features a fun run, paddle boarding, kids’ activities, health fair, raffles and more. Participants can register individually or as a team. 6-10:30am, NORTH BEACH PARK, 3601 N. Ocean Dr., Hollywood, www.active.com

Commemorate the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr with a parade followed by a celebration of South Florida’s multi-cultural community and unity. Parade departs Lincoln Park at 9:30am proceeding to Esplanade Park; festival runs from 10:30am-2:30pm at ESPLANADE PARK, Fort Lauderdale, 954-828-3542 www.kingholidaycelebration.com

Celebrate the Arts

Weston Winter Safety Expo

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19

An entertaining and educational event featuring police and fire vehicles, helicopters, police motorcycles, a winter wonderland photo area, kids’ activities, informational booths, music and more. 6-8:30pm, CYPRESS BAY HIGH SCHOOL, 18600 Vista Park Blvd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

Flamingo Fest

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JANUARY 20-21

Local artists exhibit original works of art and sculpture inspired by the pink birds iconic to South Florida. 9:30am-4pm, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org

KISS Country Chili Cookoff SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

A day of country-style activities including musical appearances by Darius Rucker, Old Dominion, Big & Rich and more. $56 and up. Gates open at 8:30am. C.B. SMITH PARK, 900 N. Flamingo Rd., Pembroke Pines, www.wkis.com

A community celebration featuring hands-on art activities, performances, dancing, a musical “petting zoo” and the popular 28-foot-long Graffiti Wall on which everyone can express their artistic talents. 1-5pm, WESTON TOWN CENTER, Royal Palm Boulevard and Bonaventure Boulevard, Weston, www.westonfl.org

Design YAA

THROUGH APRIL 21

Immerse yourself in a world of art and design while exploring the MILAGROS Collective exhibit where you can try on custom crafted clothing, camouflage yourself in a painted room, or break a sweat in the wacky home gym. Included with paid admission of $12/Broward resident. YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

Community Activities

Drive-In Movie

CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART, 2855 Coral Springs Dr.,

Sharkey’s Storytime

Enjoy a movie from your car, or bring a radio and blankets or lawn chairs to sit up front. Gates open at 5:30pm, movie at 6:30pm. Free. MARKHAM PARK, 16001 W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise, 954-747-4600

Coral Springs, 954-340-5000 www.coralspringsmuseum.org

Animals with Pockets teaches kids all about our marsupial friends through books and activities. Ages 3-5. Free. 10:30-11:15am,

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5

Classic Board Games MONDAY, JANUARY 8

Kids can experience the fun that youngsters had in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Ages 5-12. 5-6pm, MIRAMAR LIBRARY, 2050 Civic Center Place, Miramar, 954-357-8090

Teen Maker Thursday THURSDAY, JANUARY 11

Use your creative energy to make fun crafts and projects while celebrating DIY culture. Ages 13-18. Free. 4-6pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY,

3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

Family FunDay

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

Make your own artistic mandala creation in this fun family workshop. Space limited; reservations suggested. $5/door, $4/advance. 3pm,

Moonlight Movie in the Park

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch a movie under the stars. January’s feature: Wonder Woman (PG-13). Free. 7:30pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

Exploring Art

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

Learn about a different artist, and then complete an art project that emulates the artist’s style. Free. 2-4pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

The Tortoise & The Hare SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

Aesop’s fable is told through a fun-filled puppet show. Free. WESTON COMMUNITY CENTER, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24

NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY,

3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

Night at the Museum FRIDAY, JANUARY 26

Families can enjoy extended hours of museum exploration, shows, entertainment, exhibits and more, the last Friday of every month. January’s theme is Alien Invasion. $12/adult, $8/child. 6-9pm,

Celebrate Chinese New Year SUNDAY, JANUARY 28

Ring in the new year with free activities. 2-3:30pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

Free Arts

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28

This monthly Family Day offers free admission to the gallery and interactive arts activities. ART AND CULTURE CENTER/ HOLLYWOOD, 1650 Harrison St.,

Hollywood, 954-921-3274 www.artandculturecenter.org

SOUTH FLORIDA SCIENCE CENTER,

4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, 561-832-1988 www.sfsciencecenter.org

Sushi Making for Teens SATURDAY, JANUARY 27

Learn how to make a California Roll and a Dessert Roll from a Benihana chef. Pre-registration required. 2-3pm, MIRAMAR LIBRARY, 2050 Civic Center Place, Miramar, 954-357-8180

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 more local events, see our listing of outdoor adventures on page 23, and check out our online calendar at browardfamilylife.com

January 2018 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

WORDS of

Wisdom

The Eye Roll Medalist IF IT WAS AN EVENT, MY TEEN WOULD WIN GOLD BY PAM MOLNAR

oms like to brag about their kids. It’s a given. It starts with how

long the mother labored and how much her baby weighed. It moves on to the first tooth, earliest walker and those who potty-trained before anyone else. And while many of those early stories are amazing, those are things we all do eventually. Moms with high school-aged children have so much more to brag about. You see, only a small percentage of people will ever do what their child has accomplished. Varsity team as a freshmen. Perfect score on their ACT. A full ride to Juilliard. It is impressive stuff and these moms can’t help but share with everyone. I am one of those moms. In fact, I have topped them all. My 17-year-old is a Junior Olympic Gold Medalist in Eye Rolling. Oh, yeah. Take that, perfect-ACTscore-mom! And you know what? My 15-year-old got the Silver Medal. How lucky am I? I bet you didn’t even know they had that category in the Junior Olympics. They do. In fact, with so many teenagers vying for the Eye Rolling Gold Medal, the competition is fierce. My girls are truly gifted. They have been practicing the art of eye rolling since they were preteens. It was an average day when I noticed my oldest daughter’s talent. We were shopping for clothes and I suggested an outfit I thought was cute. Out of nowhere, my daughter produced a perfect eye roll. It happened so naturally that it took my breath away. From that moment on, she practiced as often as she could. Whenever I suggested a clothing combination, sang along to a song on the radio or asked for her help, she would work on her eye roll. I really saw my daughter advance to the next level when she added the complaint moan. It’s hard to explain the beauty of

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

| browardfamilylife.com

the maneuver unless you are in the same room, but I will try to set the scene. Imagine a teenager sitting on the couch with the TV on. She is not actually watching the TV, but instead engaged in something on her phone. Her mother is in the kitchen, mixing ground beef for meatballs. The dog is standing at the back door wanting to go out. The dog barks but the teenager ignores the dog. The mother nicely asks her daughter, “Honey, the dog needs to go out and my hands are covered in meatballs. Can you let her out?” The mother waits. And she waits. She repeats the request, a little louder this time. There is no movement from the teenager. The dog barks again. This time the mother replaces the word “honey” with her daughter’s first and middle names. And here it comes. The teen throws her head back for a second before inhaling deeply and sitting up straighter. Her jaw clenches as her eyeball rolls in the direction of the voice from the other room. Without blinking, her eyes come back to center and the teen turns her head toward her mother. Just in case her mother wasn’t looking, the teen lets out a moan that is a combination of disgust and aggravation before stomping to the door. It’s another perfect 10. I am so proud. I wonder if they make an Eye Roll Olympiad sticker for the back of my car. Pam Molnar is a mother of three teenagers and a freelance writer who is fluent in sarcasm. And her daughters can eye-roll better than yours.

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